A low-cost robot operated via a VR headset. Spare parts identified and ordered in seconds using AI on a smartphone. A mobile app that immediately identifies potential applications for lubrication-free parts on an excavator. igus launches a selection of digital tools in 2023, as well as products and services which are easy to use and reduce cost. The goal: provide easy access to the right motion plastics product and have fun on the way, while being carbon-neutral and without plastic waste.
The iguverse makes collaboration easy and fun
In this digital space, engineers, material experts and project planners meet and build 3D models of new machines, systems and assemblies on a 1:1 scale. No long boring meetings or expensive journeys, this also reduces CO2 emissions. The result: products are developed faster, sustainably, reliably and at a lower cost and problems can be ironed out at an early stage. The digital twin in iguverse can also be used for training. “The possibilities of virtual reality for mechanical engineering design are absolutely fascinating. We want to be part of this technology right from the start” emphasizes igus CEO Frank Blase. “We want to develop new solutions that even small companies with limited budgets can easily use”. For example, igus plans to open up iguverse in the future; companies can then benefit from this platform, which is fully managed by igus, with no development outlay. Also new for 2023; a cloud-based app called igusGO. The user takes of photo of a machine, for example an excavator, and artificial intelligence analyses where lubrication-free parts from igus could be used cost-effectively.
Voice control, superwise, “kopla” – new services for industry 4.0
The igus range of low-cost robotics, intended to promote automation in SMEs, is also growing. A new smaller cobot – the ReBeL KID – will be available from May 2023 for £3,999 and has optional voice control. The online marketplace RBTX showcases over 350 automation projects, all of which can be copied for similar applications. In addition to low cost robotics, igus expands the range of smart plastics. These are standard parts such as energy chains and plain bearings, which are equipped with sensors and integrated into IoT networks. This allows SMEs to implement industry 4.0 trends, such as condition monitoring and preventative maintenance. The smart plastics can be expanded with a new service called “superwise”; a digital product which links to igus field service team.
A completely new service is the igus managed platform “kopla”. This allows companies to create their own online expert systems and calculation tools. It is aimed specifically at medium sized companies who operate internationally and would like to explain their products online. Frank Blase: “Our own experience with the development and use of online tools, using a cloud based stored modular principle, is now available for others to use, massively reducing the implementation lead time compared with conventional software solutions”.
igus continues to expand, on the way to the millionth customer.
The last few years had many challenges, but igus continues to grow. Now with over 188,000 customers, igus has around 5000 employees at 31 locations globally. Annual sales exceeded £1billion for the first time in 2022. Now the next goal has been set; by 2030 igus is aiming for one million active customers. To get there, igus continues to invest in the development of motion plastics and fast local logistics. The aim is to make all moving applications in the world maintenance-free and long-lasting. Many online tools help engineers to calculate the life of igus products, giving a reliable and sustainable solution. Matthew Aldridge, MD of igus UK in Northampton says “No matter if an engineer needs a tiny bearing or the worlds largest plastic energy chain, the life can be calculated online. These digital tools make motion plastics easy for everyone to access.”
