Large and midsize corporations alike are becoming more interested in automating tedious and repetitive tasks. However, most manufacturing and assembly processes still require some human interaction. As a result, collaborative robot arms will account for nearly 35% of all industrial robot sales by 2025, according to some estimates. igus, a global manufacturer of engineered plastic components, has released a new cobot cable management kit to help meet that demand.

The kit includes universally-designed hook-and-loop mounting brackets and more than 100 links of the company’s innovative triflex R cable carrier, which it said offers superior cable protection compared to corrugated tubes.

Design features of the triflex R

The triflex R is a multi-axis energy chain designed for use in a wide variety of robotic applications. Unlike corrugated tubing, it’s designed with ball-and-socket links that enable individual pieces of the system to be replaced if one of them is damaged, said Igus.

Also, triflex R also has a defined bend radius to ensure that the minimum bend radius of cables won’t be violated, a built-in torsion stop for even torsional load between the carrier and the cables, and two chambers for cable separation, which help reduce excessive cable wear.

Mounting brackets from igus ease engineer choice

The kit’s hook-and-loop mounting brackets with a non-skid backing can be fastened around any diameter cobot arm, making it easier for engineers to choose a kit, regardless of the robot manufacturer, according to Igus.

The brackets are also easy to install and are designed with rounded edges to reduce the risk of injury for humans interacting with the cobots.

The following parts are included in the triflex R hook-and-loop cobot cable management kit:

• One triflex cable carrier, approximately 6 ft. in length
• Four 1 meter hook-and-loop lengths
• Four plastic mounting bases
• One strain-relief bracket
• One set of lock clips
• One set of screws
• One assembly tool

Other variations and accessories are available, including molded and bumper-style brackets and robot-end “tennis rackets.”

For more information, to see a video of the kit in action, and to visit the cobot cable management shop, click here.

About igus

igus GmbH is a leading, global manufacturer of engineered plastic components based in Cologne, Germany. Since 1964, it has developed innovative solutions for moving applications in almost every industry. igus’ products include plain bearings, linear bearings, cable carriers, continuous-flex cables, robotic components and more. The company’s North American headquarters are in East Providence, R.I.