Long-life, modular robot cable guiding systems

Citation

(2005), "Long-life, modular robot cable guiding systems", Industrial Robot, Vol. 32 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/ir.2005.04932cad.002

Long-life, modular robot cable guiding systems

Long-life, modular robot cable guiding systems

Keywords: Robots, Manufacturing systems

Multi-axis flexible energy chain systems for robots

A long-life, modular flexible energy chain system for robots with articulated arms can make a considerable contribution towards ensuring trouble-free production operations. With Triflex® R, igus® can now offer all manufacturers and users of robot systems a new family of system products that provide just this.

Technical facts

Triflex® R offers defined freedom of motion in all three dimensions. The bending radius is identical in each direction.

The Triflex® R system also consists of a minimum number of parts, which together make up just one series number. This makes it possible to shorten or lengthen the flexible energy chain system at virtually any point. Additional reinforcements such as steel ropes and spring-action devices are not required.

Owing to its round-shaped design, Triflex® R glides around the outer contour of a robot, without becoming hooked in and jammed. Its enclosed design offers protection against welding spray, dirt and filth and its smooth inner contour extends the life of the cables (Plate 2).

Endurance test programme

Like all igus products, Triflex® R must undergo in-house tests. The TRC.70.110.0 version has successfully completed the test cycle 145,000 times to date (cycle time: 50 s, dated 3/2004). Competitor products failed after just 1,000 cycles.

Plate 2 Triflex^®R extends the life of the cables

The unique “trailer principle” (=principle of a trailer coupling” – ball/ball socket) means the energy chain is capable of twisting to a high degree. This guarantees smooth movements in all axes. When complicated movements are carried out, Triflex® R also achieves a high amount of flexibility in the sixth axis. Longitudinal axis torsion of up to +/- 380° per metre is also possible.

Fixing points at the centre of Triflex® R are provided in order to be able to install directional spring-action rods within the chain. For applications in which excessive flexibility can be a handicap, complete or partial reinforcement of the Triflex® R system can be achieved through the use of these rods. This can reduce the torsion capacity or keep the Triflex® R outside the operating areas.

Easy assembly

Triflex®R is highly suitable for confined installation spaces due to its small bending radii and small partitions. Another advantage of Triflex®R is its minimum assembly and disassembly times.

Cables and hoses can also be quickly inserted, due to the principle developed by igus® for its aptly named “Easy Chain” product family, which allows cables and hoses to be fed inside the energy chain system without having to open it. The cables are inserted through overlapping brackets, after which the brackets return to their initial position automatically.

Special connecting elements with snap-on locks also enable an exceptionally quick assembly, which can substantially reduce time spent on maintenance. The connecting element is available with or without strain relief combs for cables. It can be used at the ends and as an intermediate fastening device.

The Triflex® R System is also equipped with adapted drill holes for standard types of robot.

The structural details of Triflex® R, winner of the iF Design Award, can be individually modified for many applications.

Cost advantages for users

The multi-axis flexible energy chain can be ordered from igus® as a harnessed system ready to be installed. Cable packages for robot applications can be configured from the Chainflex® product range according to specific customer requirements or supplemented with other products.

In the past few years, igus® has consistently developed this so-called “ReadyChain® concept”, in order to be able to better satisfy customer demands.

Not only does the system remain the responsibility of igus® but also the customer usually saves both purchasing costs and assembly time. Storage space is saved and production operations can begin sooner.

For further information contact: David Chapman, Triflex® R System. Tel: 01604 490000.