Award Ceremony 2026
On May 13, 2026, the winners of the 2026 Otto Hänsel Prize were announced. Through their outstanding work, they have made significant contributions to processing technology and developed innovative solutions to current challenges.
At the leading industry trade fair Interpack 2026 in Düsseldorf, foundation board members Ralf Otto Hänsel, Jens-Peter Majschak, and Richard Clemens presented the awards to Rutika Pethe and Aaron Georgi. Laura Wittich received her award on September 18, 2026, during the alumni celebration hosted by the Chair of Processing Technology.
© M. Menzel, VDMA
© H. Schubert
Best Theses:
Dipl.-Ing. Laura Wittich
"Variant comparison of transport systems for small goods with simulation of functional pairings"
Laura Wittich devoted her research to the gaps between sweets and examined these precisely in order to develop efficient transport systems.
Dipl.-Ing. Aaron Georgi
"Improving positioning accuracy in the handling of sheets and film blanks"
Through a detailed vibration analysis and model-based solution approaches, Aaron Georgi made a significant contribution to optimizing the stacking processes in the production of fuel cells.
Best Student Research Project:
Rutika Pethe
"Investigation into alternative solutions for leaflets for medicine packaging"
Rutika Pethe researched both the technological and economic potential of digital package inserts, making a valuable contribution to the future of medicine packaging.