Receiving a 2021 German Design Award, igus has released the Module Connect interface concept which makes it easier to connect energy chains, reducing assembly time.

To connect the connector to the energy chain, users can now use an individual adapter. The energy chain thus becomes an interface that saves 80% of the installation time.

The idea behind the solution is that instead of connecting each cable individually, the energy chain systems can be plugged in in seconds through low-profile and space-saving housing. Depending on the type of housing, users can choose up to four Harting Han Modular inserts.

Depending on the chain series, chain width and number of Module Connect connectors, igus manufactures the adapter for each customer in 3D printing and soon also as a modular series part in injection moulding. It is then simply fastened on the Module Connect and attached to the chain using a snap-in mechanism.

By comparison, a conventional system would require him to install, plug and lock the individual plug-in connectors into the system.

“With further work steps, such as installing and filling the empty energy chain, adjusting the overhangs and laying the cables, we have an installation time of several hours,” igus readychain product manager Markus Hüffel says.

“With the help of the Module Connect adapter, the entire assembly can be connected quickly. This means that it is only plugged in once and locked once. The self-coding of the Module Connect excludes the possibility of errors. In this way, we reduce the installation time from several hours to minutes.”

In the event of service, the maintenance technician can simply disconnect the energy chain with the adapter, re-insert a harnessed energy supply system and put the machine or system back into operation.