Igus communication module
Predictive maintenance also offline
The Icom.plus module enables predictive maintenance, and the user can decide how he wants to integrate the data obtained: from an offline version to connection to the Igus server for automatic spare parts ordering.
Under the name Isense, Igus offers various types of sensors that record the condition of components such as cables or energy chains. Among other things, they measure wear during operation and issue an alarm as soon as a repair or replacement is required. By networking with the Icom communication module, the data is transmitted to an intelligent system. The module can be connected to all Igus-specific sensors. For example, with sensors for measuring abrasion or wear measurement of the pin-bore connection of the energy chain as well as sensors for breakage and tensile shear force detection and for cable monitoring.
Once the measured values of a sensor have been transmitted to the Icom module, they must be "interpreted", i.e. understood, in order to generate an instruction for action. Until now, this has been possible via the connection to the Igus cloud. However, due to the increasing importance of IT security, many companies are increasingly relying on setting up their own Scada systems, which is why Igus has now developed its data concentrator into the Icom.plus. With the new module, the customer can integrate the data in the way that seems best for their system.
Flexible data connection through 3-in-1 module
The Icom.plus is programmed via online configurations with initial lifetime algorithms. The special feature: The new communication module can be operated offline without an update function after online installation if the customer so wishes. In this "semi-offline" case, the device requires either temporary, short-term secure IoT access to the Igus server during an initial "learning phase" in order to adapt the calculation algorithms to the actual motion and environmental profile of the customer application. In very restrictive areas, the update can also be carried out completely "offline" from the outset via a storage medium. This allows the user to flexibly design the connection of the module and thus its data and strike a balance between runtime maximization and IT security.
The movement profile required to calculate the maintenance recommendation is read directly from the control system via the machine's bus system. Information about the number of days until the next recommended maintenance and freely definable warning messages about unusual changes in the sensor data are transferred to the PLC control system in the same way. User information is provided directly via the system monitor or via customer-specific Scada systems.
Predictive maintenance through server connection
When the Icom.plus is connected online, the service life statement is continuously compared with the Igus cloud to ensure maximum system service life with minimum risk of failure. The data in the cloud is based on the ten billion test cycles of energy chains and cables in the in-house 2,750 square meter test laboratory, which is why Igus can use machine learning and AI to provide precise information on the service life of the solutions used and inform the user in good time when a replacement is required. as
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