Igus highlights ‘enjoyneering’ with new digital services and solutions

With a focus on ‘enjoyneering’ – the combination of engineering performance and playful simplicity – Igus has launched a number of digital services and solutions. Step into virtual reality, use AI to identify parts, and be with Igus in the digital world.

Central to Igus’ strategy is the iguverse – a digital space where engineers, material experts and project planners can meet and build 3D models of new machines, systems and assemblies on a 1:1 scale. Products are developed faster, sustainably, reliably and at a lower cost, and problems can be ironed out at an early stage.

The digital twin in iguverse can also be used for training. “The possibilities of virtual reality for mechanical engineering design are absolutely fascinating. We want to be part of this technology right from the start,” emphasises Igus CEO Frank Blase. “We want to develop new solutions that even small companies with limited budgets can easily use”.

For example, Igus plans to open up iguverse in the future; companies can then benefit from this platform, which is fully managed by Igus, with no development outlay.

Also new for 2023 is a cloud-based app called igusGO. The user takes of photo of a machine, for example an excavator, and artificial intelligence analyses where lubrication-free parts from Igus could be used cost-effectively.

The Igus range of low-cost robotics, intended to promote automation in SMEs, is also growing. A new smaller cobot – the ReBeL KID – will be available from May 2023 for £3,999 and has optional voice control. The online marketplace RBTX showcases over 350 automation projects, all of which can be copied for similar applications.

In addition to low cost robotics, Igus expands the range of smart plastics. These are standard parts such as energy chains and plain bearings, which are equipped with sensors and integrated into IoT networks. This allows SMEs to implement industry 4.0 trends, such as condition monitoring and preventative maintenance. The smart plastics can be expanded with a new service called ‘superwise’ – a digital product which links to the Igus field service team.

A completely new service is the Igus-managed platform kopla. This allows companies to create their own online expert systems and calculation tools. It is aimed specifically at medium sized companies who operate internationally and would like to explain their products online. Blase comments: “Our own experience with the development and use of online tools, using a cloud based stored modular principle, is now available for others to use, massively reducing the implementation lead time compared with conventional software solutions.”