Rockwell Automation is preparing to showcase new approaches to autonomous manufacturing at PACK EXPO International 2026, scheduled for October 18–21 in Chicago, Illinois. The company plans to demonstrate how industrial control systems, artificial intelligence, digital twins, robotics, and automated material handling can work together to improve production performance.

The announcement reflects a growing priority across the industrial automation sector: manufacturers want to improve efficiency and flexibility without replacing their entire existing control infrastructure. For factories operating with established programmable logic controllers (PLCs), industrial drives, remote I/O systems, and supervisory software, a gradual modernization strategy can be more practical than a complete system overhaul.

Rockwell Automation’s planned demonstrations will cover several areas of its automation portfolio. These include its Integrated Architecture system, PowerFlex drives, PointMax I/O, FactoryTalk Optix, and Emulate3D digital twin software. The company will also highlight FactoryTalk Analytics Model Predictive Control and FactoryTalk Orchestration, alongside OTTO autonomous mobile robots designed to support internal material movement.

Digital twins are particularly relevant to machine builders and system integrators. By creating a virtual representation of equipment or production processes, engineers can evaluate machine behavior, test control strategies, and identify potential commissioning issues before implementing changes on the factory floor. When combined with reliable PLC data, simulation can help shorten engineering cycles and improve coordination between mechanical, electrical, and control teams.

Artificial intelligence is another important part of the development. Advanced process control and analytics can help operators identify process deviations, optimize operating conditions, and make better use of production data. However, successful deployment still depends on accurate instrumentation, stable control logic, dependable communications, and appropriate safety measures.

The company is positioning autonomous operations as a progressive transition rather than a single technology purchase. Existing PLCs, variable-frequency drives, industrial networks, and supervisory systems can provide the foundation for adding analytics, robotics, and more advanced workflow coordination.

For manufacturers and automation suppliers, the announcement highlights continuing demand for compatible control hardware, modernization services, industrial networking components, and engineering expertise. As factories pursue more connected production environments, integrating established automation equipment with newer digital tools is likely to remain a key industry priority.