Energy supply installed cost-effectively and in a flash in SRU lanes

In the technology and test centre that Gebhardt operates in Sinsheim and uses for production supply, a Cheetah AKL storage and retrieval unit is installed alongside pallet conveyor and shuttle technology. Traditionally, busbar systems are used for energy transmission in storage and retrieval systems, but these have a number of disadvantages. They have to be cleaned and maintained regularly, the contacts of the current collector are susceptible to wear and the price for short aisles is relatively high. In addition, the planning, project planning and installation with all the associated components such as photocells, transmitters, receivers etc. are very time-consuming.

With autoglide 5, igus® has developed an innovative cable carrier system for horizontal use that does not require a guide trough at all. It is constructed using a cable tensioned on the floor. The energy chain with cable for energy, data, liquids or even air can travel safely and quietly at 4 m/s on this cable. Without a guide trough, 50 % of the hall floor remains free, the cleaning effort is reduced and maintenance is eliminated. Another highlight: installation is simple and can be completed in a flash. The complete autoglide 5 system, including all cables, was installed at Gebhardt in just three hours. It would have taken 1.5 days for a busbar system, not including setting up the data transmission. Gebhardt has now been using the igus® system for a year and is very satisfied.