Autolab – Next Automation GmbH

What Autolab – Next Automation GmbH does

Autolab – Next Automation GmbH is an Austrian B2B industrial automation company founded in 2021 as a spin-off of PMT Holding and headquartered at the TU Graz Campus in Graz. The company delivers end-to-end automation solutions spanning end-of-line (EOL) test systems, AI-based machine vision, palletizing cells, TwinCAT framework libraries, predictive maintenance, digital twins, and control-systems engineering, serving automotive OEMs and tier-1 suppliers (parking sensors, rain sensors, injection molding) as well as smartphone component manufacturers that require high-precision optical inspection. Technology is built around a proprietary product family — AutoGo Vision (deep-learning inspection platform with modular hardware), AutoGo-SlowMo (high-speed imaging), and AutoGo Palletizer — combined with OEM-licensed TwinCAT libraries and certified integration with Beckhoff controls and MVTec (HALCON/MERLIC) vision software.

Revenue is generated through a mix of project-based custom automation (EOL testers and special-purpose machines), unit-priced vision hardware and software (controllers ~€6,500, cameras from €350, training/labeling tools), TwinCAT library licensing, and professional services. Lower-commitment entry points — feasibility studies from €1,500 and "Inspection-as-a-Service" from €2,500/month — are used to convert cold industrial prospects. The company operates as a 7-person boutique systems integrator distributed primarily through direct enterprise sales, with vendor partnerships (Beckhoff Solution Partner, MVTec Certified Integration Partner) and Austrian cluster memberships (Silicon Alps, AT Styria, Automobil Cluster) functioning as credibility and channel anchors.

Name

Autolab – Next Automation GmbH

Legal name

AutoLab – Next Automation GmbH

Website

https://autolab.at

Company type

Private

Founded year

2021

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

Autolab – Next Automation GmbH is a 7-person Austrian industrial-automation spin-off of PMT Holding that builds AI-based machine vision, end-of-line test systems, palletizing cells, and TwinCAT libraries for automotive tier-1 suppliers and smartphone component manufacturers.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Industrial Automation Systems

NAICS

Computer Systems Design and Related Services (54151), Other Measuring and Controlling Device Manufacturing (334519), Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing (33451)

SIC

Services-Computer Integrated Systems Design (7373), Industrial Instruments For Measurement, Display, And Control (3823), Services-Computer Programming Services (7371)

akta.pro primary industry

Industrial Automation Software (SCADA, HMI, MES, Historian) (IMAHAHAJ)

akta.pro secondary industries

Control System Integration & Engineering Services (Design, Commissioning, Retrofits) (IMAGABAK), End-of-Line Integration & Packaging Line Systems (IMAHAOAN)

Keywords

• Industrial automation solutions
• End-of-line testing systems
• Machine vision software
• TwinCAT PLC programming
• Predictive maintenance services

Headquarters

HQ city

Graz

HQ country

Austria

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Supply Chain, Operations, Marketing or Sales

Revenue model

1. Custom Automation Systems & Testing Machines: Design, development, and delivery of customized end-of-line (EOL) testing systems, special-purpose machines, and automation solutions. Revenue is project-based, one-time per system, with potential for follow-on maintenance and support.
2. AutoGo Vision Platform Products: Sale of AutoGo Vision image processing controllers, industrial cameras, labeling tools, and training tools. Priced per unit (e.g., controller ~€6,500, camera from €350, labeling tool €1,500, training tool €1,900). Potential for repeat purchases and upgrades.
3. TwinCAT Libraries & Frameworks: Sale of modular TwinCAT libraries and custom framework solutions under OEM license to other automation companies and machine builders.
4. Feasibility Studies & Consulting: Proof-of-concept studies for testing systems, especially in image processing and predictive maintenance. Priced starting from €1,500. Also includes Image Acquisition as a Service (IAaaS) from €2,500 for data collection under real production conditions.
5. Predictive Maintenance & Industrial Data Solutions: Customized predictive maintenance implementations, digital twin modeling, and industrial data analysis. Typically project-based consulting and implementation engagements.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels8 records

Core offering

AutoLab – Next Automation GmbH designs and delivers custom industrial automation solutions, including end-of-line testing systems (EOL Prüfautomat), palletizers, and special-purpose machines for industrial clients. Its proprietary software products include the AutoGo Vision AI-based machine vision platform, AutoGo-SlowMo high-speed imaging IPC, and modular TwinCAT libraries for Beckhoff PLCs. The company also provides engineering services such as TwinCAT framework development, feasibility studies, predictive maintenance, digital twins, industrial data solutions, and machine vision consulting.

Product overview

AutoLab – Next Automation GmbH is a full-service automation solutions provider founded in 2021 as a spin-off from PMT Holding, based at TU Graz Campus in Graz, Austria. The company offers a portfolio of turnkey automation products and specialized services organized around five core areas: (1) EOL Testing Systems — both the full-scale EOL Testing System (high-speed, up to 100 stations, 10M+ parts/year capacity) and the flexible EOL Prüfbox for small-batch production; (2) the AutoGo Palletizer for high-speed packaging; (3) AutoGo Vision, an AI-powered machine vision platform with plug-and-play hardware and ONNX-based deep learning for defect detection; (4) AutoGo-SlowMo for high-speed video capture at up to 220 FPS; and (5) TwinCAT Libraries providing modular PLC software components (Utility, PackML/FSM, Process Data). Beyond products, AutoLab delivers engineering services including TwinCAT Framework Development, Control Systems Engineering (MPC, Reinforcement Learning), Industrial Data solutions (OPC UA, InfluxDB, MongoDB, SQL), Digital Twins and Simulations, Predictive Maintenance, and Feasibility Studies with IAaaS (Image Acquisition as a Service). The company is a certified Beckhoff Solution Partner and MVTec Certified Integration Partner.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• AutoGo Vision: AI-based image processing system for industrial applications - open, flexible, industrial-grade vision solution with plug-and-play capabilities
• AutoGo-SlowMo
• AutoGo Palletizer
• AutoLab TwinCAT Libraries

Products and services

• EOL Testing System (End-of-Line Prüfautomat) Customized 100% end-of-line testing system supporting electrical, mechanical, tactile, camera-based (including AI), 3D measurement, and leak tests, designed for parts up to 5 kg with test cycle times under 1 second and capacity for up to 100 test stations. Built for industrial customers in automotive and electronics manufacturing requiring high-volume quality control.
• AutoGo Palletizer (Palettierer) Compact, field-tested palletizer for tray and blister packaging that handles parts up to 5 kg with packaging cycles under one second, supports several hours of autonomous operation, and integrates via EtherCAT or PROFINET fieldbus systems.
• AutoGo Vision AI-powered machine vision system with plug-and-play industrial camera setup, labeling tool, training tool, and ONNX model export. Enables OK/NOK defect detection without expert knowledge; the AI model belongs to the user and runs on any system, with a generic PLC interface for integration.
• AutoGo-SlowMo (Slow-Motion-App) High-speed imaging solution for industrial use capturing up to 220 FPS at 5 MP resolution, supporting up to 4 cameras with 32 GB pre-event buffer, EtherCAT/PROFINET fieldbus integration, and Live, Event, and Setup modes.
• TwinCAT Libraries Modular libraries for Beckhoff TwinCAT PLC programming under OEM license, including the AutoLab Utility Library (PLC I/O integration with HMI), PackML and FSM Library (state machine automation), Process Data Library (part/tray tracking, test result management, cycle time analysis), and HMI framework controls enabling PLC I/O integration and visualization in under five minutes.
• End-of-Line (EOL) Prüfbox Flexible EOL testing system specifically designed for small-batch production, using 3D-printed part holders for high adaptability. New tests can be added via software update without hardware changes.
• Feasibility Studies – Proof of Concept Feasibility analysis service evaluating concept viability, including lab setup, concept development, testing equipment evaluation, and structured data acquisition. Prices start from €1,500.
• Image Acquisition as a Service (IAaaS) Rental service providing image processing IPCs, cameras, and lighting systems for capturing images under real production conditions. Enables automated anomaly detection and data sovereignty for customers. Prices start from €2,500.
• TwinCAT Framework Development Custom TwinCAT framework development tailored to specific requirements, including library development and HMI templates and framework controls for machine control optimization.
• Control Systems Engineering (Regelungstechnik) Control system design, modeling, and simulation services offering Model Predictive Control (MPC) and Reinforcement Learning approaches for complex or nonlinear systems when classical PID controllers reach their limits.
• Industrial Data Solutions Data connectivity, analysis, and storage solutions including OPC UA integration, cycle time analysis, statistical test data analysis, and flexible storage in MongoDB, InfluxDB, and SQL, supporting long-term sensor data tracing with sampling rates below 250 µs.
• Digital Twins and Simulations Modeling of digital twins and virtual sensors synchronized in real time with physical counterparts, enabling virtual sensors, process simulation, and predictive maintenance extensions.
• Predictive Maintenance Customized predictive maintenance solutions analyzing downtime and root causes to optimize maintenance schedules, reduce unplanned downtime, and extend equipment lifespan through data-driven decision-making.
• Machine Vision / Image Processing (Bildverarbeitung) 2D and 3D inspection services using classical image processing (Halcon, TwinCAT Vision, OpenCV, Keyence) and deep learning, including complex inline measurements, defect detection, and video monitoring with slow-motion visualization.

Quantifiable outcome

• 12,000 rain sensors inspected daily with 100% automated AI inspection replacing manual control
• +5 more outcomes

Named customers5 records

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration9 records

AI capability9 records

Feature7 records

Partnerships

Eleven partnerships are on record, tiered core, supporting and secondary.

• BeckhoffcoreTechnology or IntegrationAutoLab is a certified Beckhoff Solution Partner. As part of this partnership, AutoLab develops TwinCAT frameworks, modular libraries, and HMI controls, and leverages Beckhoff's XTS system and PC-based PLC technology in their automation solutions. The partnership provides access to Beckhoff's technology ecosystem and is referenced in customer-facing materials.
• MVTec SoftwarecoreTechnology or IntegrationAutoLab is a certified MVTec Integration Partner, indicating expertise in deploying MVTec's machine vision software (such as Halcon) in industrial automation projects. MVTec is a leading provider of standard machine vision software.
• PMT HoldingcoreOthersAutoLab was founded in 2021 as a spin-off from PMT Holding. The spin-off leverages decades of production experience from PMT Holding's sister companies while operating as an independent entity focused on software development for automation.
• Silicon AlpssupportingGTM or Marketing PartnerAutoLab is a partner member of Silicon Alps, the Austrian electronics and automation cluster. This membership provides industry visibility and networking within the Austrian and European electronics/automation ecosystem.
• AT Styria (Plattform der Automatisierungstechnik Steiermark)supportingGTM or Marketing PartnerAutoLab is a member of AT Styria, the platform for automation technology in Styria, Austria. This membership supports industry visibility and B2B networking within the regional automation community.
• Automobil Cluster (Biz-Up)supportingGTM or Marketing PartnerAutoLab is a partner of the Automobil Cluster (operated by Biz-Up), providing industry visibility and connections within the Austrian automotive supply chain cluster.
• PromotechcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerPromotech collaborated with AutoLab on the Highspeed Prüfautomat (EOL testing) project, with Promotech handling design and technical development in close collaboration with AutoLab. Additionally, Promotech engaged AutoLab for the Übergabehandling project involving integration of injection molding machines with robotics.
• Herzog VSA GmbHcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerHerzog VSA GmbH partnered with AutoLab on the rain sensor surface inspection project, where AutoLab implemented a 100% AI-powered surface inspection system using deep learning to replace manual inspection.
• Vorhauer-ChiptuningsecondaryStrategic or Co-development PartnerAutoLab supported Vorhauer-Chiptuning (Attnang-Puchheim, Austria) with software implementation for a performance test bench, including real-time data processing functions and plug-and-play data transfer from PLC to control station.
• StäublisupportingTechnology or IntegrationStäubli robots are used in AutoLab's high-speed EOL testing system for parking sensors, contributing to short cycle times and high precision in the automated testing and packaging line.
• BalluffsupportingTechnology or IntegrationBalluff GigE cameras are used in the high-speed EOL testing system for optical inspection of parking sensors, with four cameras deployed for high-precision quality inspection.

Scale indicators9 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Direct peers

• Cognex Corporation: Global leader in machine vision and industrial barcode reading. Competes head-on with AutoGo Vision in AI-based surface and defect inspection for automotive and electronics customers.
• ISRA VISION (Atlas Copco): Machine vision specialist for industrial inspection and quality assurance, now part of Atlas Copco. Competes directly in surface inspection, 3D metrology, and AI-based defect detection in automotive and electronics production.
• SICK AG: German-headquartered manufacturer of sensors, machine vision, and safety systems for industrial automation. Comparable customer base in automotive and electronics, with overlapping 2D/3D vision offerings.
• Keyence Corporation: Major supplier of machine vision systems, sensors, and measurement instruments to industrial customers globally. Direct competitor in optical inspection and inline measurement segments AutoLab serves.
• Stemmer Imaging: European-based machine vision integrator and distributor with similar business model: combines vision components, integration services, and proprietary software. Direct overlap in industrial AI-based inspection and TwinCAT/MVTec ecosystems.

Broad incumbents

• B&R Industrial Automation (ABB): Global industrial automation vendor (now part of ABB) offering PLCs, motion control, and integrated machine solutions. Competes broadly for the same end customers and integrator relationships.
• KUKA AG: Global supplier of robotics and automation systems, including cells for testing and palletizing — direct overlap with AutoLab's palletizer and robotic cell offerings, but at a much larger scale and with a broader portfolio.
• Beckhoff Automation: Provider of PC-based control technology and TwinCAT software platform that AutoLab builds on as a certified Solution Partner. Beckhoff offers broader automation portfolio but also competes indirectly for TwinCAT framework and HMI work.

Others

• MVTec Software: Leading independent vendor of standard machine vision software (HALCON, MERLIC). Functions as a technology partner and Certified Integration Partner host for AutoLab; not a direct competitor but a complementary platform provider.

Emerging players

• Perception Park: Austrian-based specialist in industrial image processing and machine vision, similar geographic and customer focus to AutoLab. Comparable niche scale in deep learning-based inspection for industrial customers.

Market position

Strengths4 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks1 record

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/@autolab-nextautomation
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/autolab_next_automation
• Instagraminstagram.com/autolab_nextautomation

Compliance2 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles1 record

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Autolab – Next Automation GmbH