Mechanical components such as couplings have always played a crucial role in the drivetrain. How is digitalization in the production environment changing Jakob Antriebstechnik's business?The advancing digitalization in the field of drive technology has surprisingly brought little change to the technical design of servo couplings. Of course, the requirements for individual technical parameters such as higher permissible speeds or compact dimensions are constantly being increased, but usually without additional electronic components. In contrast, servomotors and gearboxes are increasingly being equipped with intelligent systems. The use of linear motors and torque motors, which makes mechanical clutches obsolete, is also largely limited to niche applications.

What are the unique selling points of Jakob Antriebstechnik?
Since the market launch of metal bellows couplings in the early 1980s, Jakob Antriebstechnik has seen itself as the technology leader in this sector, even though some of its competitors produce larger quantities. Thanks to a sophisticated modular system, customers can be offered a comprehensive range with different standard variants. This applies to all areas such as metal bellows couplings, elastomer couplings, miniature couplings, spacer couplings and safety couplings. A coupling configurator, a clearly structured website, sound advice from sales technicians and the provision of all relevant technical data provide customers with maximum support when choosing a coupling. Jakob is particularly proud of its very short delivery times, which are guaranteed by a complete in-house production depth or by domestic suppliers. When it comes to optimized, customer-specific drive solutions, the experience and technical expertise of the Jakob team really comes into its own.

Where do you see the current trends and future development of drive technology from the perspective of the clutch manufacturer?
The permanent demand for higher power density in drive technology is being met with new, very compact clutch types, reinforced metal bellows or an optimized welded connection between bellows and hub. The electrification of car drives has also led to a clear trend towards higher operating speeds. Several new rotationally symmetrical clutch versions are being developed for this purpose and are currently being launched on the market. A new balancing machine is available for the highest balancing qualities. Other development activities in the field of spacer clutches include the "Simple-Flex" type with fibre-optimized CFRP tubes without additional balancing elements and an overload torque clutch for speeds above 10,000 ^rpm.