40 years of innovation – stories from Linköping Science Park
Joakim Delbom served as the CEO of SICK IVP for 21 years, a global leader in Machine Vision located on Wallenberg’s gata in Mjärdevi. With a background spanning from Linköping University to roles at Ericsson and the startup Kreatel, Delbom embodied the region’s strong tradition of technical expertise and mobility between academia and industry.
SICK IVP originates from the convergence of German precision and local innovation, specifically the 3D imaging technology developed by researcher Robert Forchheimer. Today, the company focuses on giving machines “eyes and brains.” By combining optics with smart electronics, they enable machines to identify objects, make independent decisions, and optimize complex industrial flows. For example, their systems can distinguish between different types of packaging on a conveyor belt just as naturally as a human eye, a critical capability for modern logistics.
This technology drives Industry 4.0, creating smarter, safer, and more resource-efficient operations. Delbom emphasizes that technology serves as a means to an end, with a strong commitment to “using technology for good.” This includes improving working environments and reducing waste in production lines.
Delbom points to the collaborative spirit of Linköping Science Park as a key success factor. The interaction between different companies and the university fosters a dynamic environment where established methods balance with new advancements like AI and Deep Learning. He views it as a shared responsibility to maintain the machinery of the park, ensuring innovation continues to thrive through exchange and cooperation.
Regarding the unique ecosystem in Linköping, Delbom states:
“One of Mjärdevi’s greatest strengths is that we manage to nurture the expertise here and create a whole from the diversity.”
This text is part of the article series based on Linköping Science Park’s 40-year book, which is available here.
