At Swiss Plastics Expo in Lucerne on January 20-22, 2026, ENGEL will present its digital solutions, focusing on the evolution of digitalization from inject 4.0 to inject AI, together with the world’s first autonomous injection-molding cell.

New inject AI framework

ENGEL’s new inject AI framework precisely addresses present general shortage of skilled workers. It transfers the proven intelligent assistance systems, around 20,000 of which are already in use worldwide, into a new era of autonomy.

ENGEL’s new inject AI framework helps tackle skilled labor shortage.

“We integrate decades of application engineering expertise directly into the machine control system and make this expert knowledge usable for every employee,” explains Gerhard Dimmler, CTO of ENGEL.

In industries such as medical technology, where validation and process documentation are critical, ENGEL’s digital assistance systems also provide seamless traceability and increased reproducibility, alongside the minimization of scrap and the reduction of energy consumption.

AI-supported optimization also enables a level of process consistency that has not previously been achievable. For example, the iQ process observer continuously analyzes more than 1,000 parameters, proactively detects even the smallest deviations and provides actionable recommendations before scrap is produced.

Complemented by the ENGEL Virtual Assistant (EVA), which operates as a 24/7 support tool, and the AI-based part finder for spare parts identification, ENGEL creates an ecosystem that increases efficiency across the entire value chain.

Autonomous injection molding cell

At the Expo, ENGEL will highlight an autonomous manufacturing cell based on an all-electric ENGEL e-mac 80 injection molding machine. The cell fulfils more than precision and energy efficient production. It brings autonomous, self-regulating injection molding.

ENGEL e-mac 80 injection molding machine with cell automation and inline quality monitoring.

Instead of setting abstract parameters such as pressures and speeds, the operator defines the required quality characteristics of the end product. The cell then automatically adjusts the process and ensures that the specified part quality is maintained.

At the same time, continuous monitoring ensures stable, process-optimized production, even when processing recyclates, supported by systems such as iQ weight control plus.

At Swiss Plastics Expo 2026, ENGEL specifically addresses the needs of the demanding Swiss market, tackling the shortage of skilled labor, reducing production costs, and defending the “Swiss Made” quality promise in a globalized world.