Talking to visitors to the stand, we perceived a strong consistency in the requests. The recurring themes were not trends, but problems to be solved. Speed in prototyping, reverse engineering skills, optimization of gear teeth for real-world loads, improvement of existing gearboxes, noise reduction, and backlash reduction. All very straightforward.
Those approaching were looking for expertise, technical ability, but also financial sustainability. Not cover-the-world partners, but solid interlocutors capable of withstanding market pressure. The willingness to engage in dialogue was high, but selective. Only those who immediately demonstrated an understanding of the problem were truly listened to.
