Plug-and-play data analysis directly on the machine without complex IT infrastructures

The industrial use of machine data is a key lever for greater efficiency, less downtime and more sustainable production. Nevertheless, the introduction of condition monitoring and predictive maintenance often fails in practice due to complex IT structures, high implementation costs and a lack of data transparency. With the new i.Cee² module, igus offers a solution: Companies can use the edge module to quickly and easily record, visualise and analyse initial machine data.

Against the backdrop of rising energy prices and growing demands for sustainability and resource efficiency, the utilisation of machine data is becoming increasingly important. Only those who know and specifically analyse their processes can optimise energy consumption, reduce downtime and remain competitive over the long term. At the same time, many companies are showing a certain degree of uncertainty when it comes to complex digitalisation strategies. This is exactly where igus comes in with the i.Cee² module. The compact, industrial-grade device is installed directly in the control cabinet and works as an edge device on the machine. It assumes the role of a universal data logger and analysis module. A wide variety of sensors can be connected via integrated analogue and digital interfaces, for example for recording current flows, temperatures, humidity or forces. The data is stored, processed and visualised directly in the device. This gives users a direct insight into the status of their systems without having to set up complex IT infrastructures beforehand. “Predictive maintenance doesn’t start with complex systems, but with the initial data. That’s why we deliberately use data logging as a starting point for the i.Cee². Customers first record their machine data and then recognise correlations and statuses step by step. This creates a very pragmatic transition to condition monitoring,” explains Richard Habering, Head of smart plastics at igus. Only in a further step do forecasts and specific maintenance recommendations in the sense of predictive maintenance emerge from this. This approach creates a reliable basis for further analyses, especially for companies without a distinct data history.

Local data processing in seconds

A key advantage of i.Cee² is that data is processed directly at the point of origin. Unlike purely cloud-based models, the module utilises the principles of edge computing. This reduces data volumes, minimises dependencies on networks and enables fast response times. At the same time, integration into higher-level systems remains flexible. Data can be transferred to cloud platforms, SCADA or MES systems as required via standardised interfaces such as REST and MQTT APIs. However, an Internet connection is not a prerequisite; the system functions completely autonomously in local mode. The input circuit for the 24V DC power supply has already been tried and tested in numerous industrial applications with “dirty” networks and extreme electromagnetic compatibility interference and ensures strong operation even under difficult electrical conditions, e.g. on cranes. Thanks to the integration of four analogue and digital inputs/outputs, CAN bus, RS485, HDMI and 2x RJ45, the device can be connected to many sensors available on the market.

Open software for maximum flexibility

igus also pursues an open approach on the software side. The module is delivered with a ready-to-use environment consisting of established open source solutions, including Node-RED as a visual programming tool, InfluxDB as a time series database and Grafana for visualisation. This enables users to create their initial dashboards, define data flows and analyse correlations without in-depth programming knowledge. At the same time, the system remains open to expansion, for example through additional analysis algorithms or AI-based analysis methods.

Find out more about the i.Cee² module: smart plastics news 2026: i.Cee²