RFID lock from igus prevents unauthorised access to energy chain connections

In many industrial plants, unwanted or unintentional tampering with plug connections can lead to downtime or increased service costs. The connection points of energy chains are particularly affected. To protect these points even better in future, igus is presenting a new RFID solution for the modular plug-in system Module Connect.

A food manufacturer’s packaging line suddenly goes on strike. The operator tries to find a solution under stress. He disconnects the plug connections of the energy chain even though he is not technically authorised to do so, causing even greater damage. “Such interventions are a serious and expensive problem in many companies as they result in downtime and costly service calls,” says Markus Hüffel, Product Manager readychain and readycable at igus. “Many companies therefore want a simple way to secure sensitive connections in a better way. With the RFID lock, we are for the first time offering a solution that can be retrofitted and that addresses precisely this issue.” igus has developed the add-on specifically for the Module Connect energy chain plug connection. The lock is clipped onto the existing Module Connect interface and can only be opened with an authorised RFID card. Initial feedback from discussions with customers has been positive, primarily due to the uncomplicated integration into existing systems.

Compact, digitally protected and can be retrofitted

The RFID lock consists of a flat housing and is assembled without tools. A metal clevis pin reliably locks the plug connection. An integrated microcomputer checks whether an authorised RFID card is present. If required, every access can be logged, which is helpful for maintenance, documentation and quality processes and ensures greater transparency during operation.

Module Connect: connect 16 cables with one click

The modular plug-in system Module Connect makes it possible to bundle several cables – from bus and power cables to fibre optic cables and pneumatic hoses – in a single, clearly structured interface. Instead of connecting many individual connectors, the result is a clearly organised module that can be connected in a single step. This way, companies can lower assembly time by up to 80% and significantly reduce sources of error. The saving of time is due to contact elements, which can be clicked into the housing without tools. Several housings can be flexibly combined to create a customised interface. A single plugging process connects the entire system so that numerous cables – around 16 or more – can be securely fastened with just one movement. Incorrect assignments and mix-ups are virtually impossible, which significantly reduces the documentation effort. The flat, space-saving housing also allows for a high contact density and is ideal for compact machine rooms. Different cables are brought together in one module instead of via many individual connectors. Each housing can be fitted with up to four electrical, optical or pneumatic inserts, which means that the system can be configured extremely flexibly. Thanks to the completely tool-free assembly, conversions and extensions are easy and quick to implement. Power, data and media cables are clearly structured and converge at a central transfer point, making the modular concept ideal for both small machines and large systems.

Find out more about Module Connect at:
Module Connect – igus® reinvents the interface