igus RFID lock prevents unauthorized access to energy chain connections
In many industrial facilities, unwanted or unintentional interference with connectors can lead to downtime or increased maintenance costs. Energy chain connection points are particularly vulnerable. To provide even better protection for these areas in the future, igus is introducing a new RFID solution for the Module Connect modular connector system.
At a food manufacturer, the packaging line suddenly stops working. Under pressure, the operator tries to find a solution. He disconnects the energy chain connectors, even though he is not technically authorized to do so, thereby causing even greater damage. “Such interventions are a serious and costly problem in many companies, as they cause downtime and require extensive service calls,” says Markus Hüffel, Product Manager for readychain and readycable at igus. “Many companies therefore want a simple way to better secure sensitive connections. With the RFID lock, we are offering, for the first time, a retrofittable solution that addresses exactly this need.” igus developed the add-on specifically for the Module Connect energy chain plug-in connection. The lock clips onto the existing Module Connect interface and can only be opened with an authorized RFID card. Initial feedback from customer discussions has been positive, primarily due to the straightforward integration into existing systems.
Compact, retrofittable, and digitally secured
The RFID lock consists of a flat housing and is installed without tools. A metal bolt reliably locks the connector. An integrated microcomputer verifies whether an authorized RFID card is present. Upon request, all access events can be logged, which is helpful for maintenance, documentation, and quality processes, and ensures greater transparency during ongoing operations.
Module Connect: Connect 16 lines with a single click
The modular plug-in system Module Connect makes it possible to bundle multiple cables—from bus and power cables to fiber-optic cables and pneumatic hoses—into a single, clearly structured interface. Instead of connecting many individual plugs, a clearly arranged module is created that can be connected with a single hand movement. Companies thus save up to 80 percent in installation time and significantly reduce sources of error. This time savings is made possible by the contact elements, which can be secured in the housing with a single click, without tools. Multiple housings can be flexibly combined to form a custom interface. A single connection process links the entire system, allowing numerous cables—such as 16 or more—to be securely connected with just one simple step. Misassignments and mix-ups are virtually impossible, which significantly reduces documentation efforts. The flat, space-saving housing also enables high contact density and is ideal for compact machine rooms. Different cables are neatly consolidated into a single module rather than using many individual connectors. Each housing can be equipped with up to four electrical, optical, or pneumatic inserts, making the system extremely flexible to configure. Thanks to completely tool-free assembly, modifications and expansions can be implemented quickly. Power, data, and media cables converge in a clearly structured manner at a central transfer point, making the modular concept ideally suited for both small machines and large systems.