igus has advanced its intelligent cable with the experience of customers in the automotive and machine tool industries. The new CF.Q module in combination with isense uses the new potentials of digitisation and networking to make maintenance easier and more efficient.

The module allows electrical properties to be tested in additional measuring cores and can continuously be compared with existing empirical values of a given chainflex cable.

In addition, guide values for the cables can be defined in advance. If the CF.Q module is installed, it informs the customer by actuating a normally closed contact when these predefined values of the electrical parameters change.

Only the combination of empirical values and real-time measurement allow users precise maintenance predictions for their cables – especially in the dynamic production environment. This is made possible by an industry 4.0-capable application called isense-online. It compares the recorded real-time values of the cable and the empirical values existing in a database. If it detects fluctuations, it notifies the plant operator to carry out maintenance. This all happens before damage occurs to prevent any plant or production risks.

The CF.Q modules are suitable for switch cabinet assembly thanks to top-hat rail housings that offer flexibility for electrical engineers in terms of integration as well as handling. In addition, the modules are suitable for data logging thanks to the SD card slot.

Customers who want to get a precise insight into the recorded measured values can do so by connecting to the isense-online system via a detailed view. Each user has access to a wide variety of communication channels and reporting options. Maintenance recommendations or future failures are displayed in the classic browser view of desktop PCs, as well as on all mobile devices such as tablets and smart phones.

Thanks to Industry 4.0 and the active integration of smart technologies, the maintenance of the future becomes predictable and thus more efficient, especially for maintenance teams and production managers. Sensors and the isense-online application can be used across industries with the beta device IS.CF.Q.03.01.0., allowing customers to do their own beta test project and prepare their production processes for digitisation and smart factories.