New lightweight multi-axis cable carrier provides low-cost alternative for robotic applications

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Igus® Inc. announced the availability of a new lightweight version of its Triflex® R multi-axis cable carrier. Triflex R is designed for use on automated robots and employs a pioneering ball-and-socket style design. Triflex R Light provides a low-cost alternative for robotic applications that don’t require a completely enclosed cable management system.

Unlike the standard Triflex R cable carrier, which is built with enclosed, two-segmented circular links connected by a ball on one link and a socket on the next, the links of Triflex R Light are a single segment. This leaves an opening between one link and the next, significantly lowering the weight and subsequently lowering the cost of the product.

Triflex R Light is reinforced by three fan-like supports that create three available compartments for cables and hoses, while standard Triflex R has an inner support that connects to the link in two places, creating two compartments, and also has dual guide channels for optional fiber rods.

Igus developed Triflex R Light with a number of robotic applications in mind, such as tool changers, calibration equipment, laser and adhesive applications and material handling which often involves a large number of small sensor cables. The six-axis cable carrier moves multi-dimensionally on the x, y and z axes. It can twist up to 380 degrees per yard, enabling easy movement around complex configurations.

E-Z Chain

Triflex R Light also is a member of igus’ E-Z Chain product line, which saves valuable time for customers. E-Z Chains have a small opening along each link through which the cables are simply pushed through for easy installation or pulled out for fast maintenance. After inserting or removing the cables, the overlapping brackets automatically return to their original position.

Other features include:

modular design with interchangeable links enabling fast, easy length adaptation;

easy assembly, installation, maintenance and access to cables;

open style links provide constant viewing and inspection of cables and hoses;

three compartments for easy separation of electrical, fluid and pneumatic cables;

bend radius less than four and one-half inches and short pitch for tight installations;

uniform bending radius in every direction enhances service life of cables and hoses;

high stability with exterior stop dogs; and

superior mechanical features, including impact resistance, contamination protection and abrasion resistance.

Ball-and-socket style construction

The high tensile strength achieved by the entire Triflex R product line is the result of its unique ball-and-socket style assembly. It can sustain high transverse forces and push/pull forces are absorbed at the center. Most of the Energy Chain mass also is at the center, reducing construction space and acceleration forces. Traditional robotic cable-carrier solutions require an additional outer covering, steel cables, spring assemblies or the cables themselves to sustain the force of motion.

Accessories

A multitude of accessories are available to complement a Triflex R Light solution, including:

mounting brackets;

heat protectors;

universal installation kit; and

heavy-duty strain relief.

A complete solution

Customers have the option of ordering a complete robotic cable-carrier system for the entire robot with the addition of igus Twister Chain. Twister Chain provides rotary movement on the first axis in an arc up to 540 degrees. When combined with Triflex R or Triflex R Light on the second through sixth axes, no additional accessories are required for a complete installation.

ReadyChain harnessing services

Igus further alleviates assembly hassle with the availability of ReadyChain–preassembled, harnessed, ready-to-install cable carriers complete with Energy Chain, Chainflex cables, mounting brackets, strain relief, connectors and all accessories. ReadyChain increases production throughput, saves manufacturing time and reduces costs and inventory, having an impact on the entire organization.

www.igus.com.