New energy guidance triflex TRX revolutionizes 3D movement on the robot

The new TRX system from igus saves space on the third robot axis and provides a retraction length of up to 40 percent. (Source: igus GmbH)

To ensure that cables on industrial robots can be guided safely, easily, and compactly in movement, igus has now developed the four-dimensional energy chain triflex TRX. The new design concept replaces traditional robot hose packages and retracting systems. The special feature: a unique telescopic mechanism inside the chain provides a retraction path of 40 percent. This allows users to save space on the third axis of their robot, up to 83 percent weight, and reduce costs for retraction systems.

The three-dimensional triflex R energy chains from igus are widely used in industry when it comes to reliably guiding cables and hoses on robots. To prevent loops from forming during the movement of the energy chain system, which could hinder the robot, retracting systems are currently used on the third axis. "However, the axes on robots are offering less and less space, so a new solution was needed," says Jörg Ottersbach, head of the e-chain business unit at igus GmbH. As a result, the triflex TRX system was developed based on the triflex R energy chain. This is a four-dimensional energy chain in which the retraction system is already integrated. "With TRX, we create a space-saving chain that can be directly fixed compactly on the third axis. The energy guidance twists within itself, extends, and shortens in a spiral manner like a telescopic extension by up to 40 percent," explains Ottersbach. Additionally, igus relies on a screw connection system and an integrated return band in this unique mechanism. The band repeatedly brings the chain links back to their starting point, with the retraction force being adjustable. The cables are placed inside the chain in a spiral shape and securely guided during movement with the chain. Furthermore, the cables and hoses are fixed in the middle of the TRX to prevent the position from shifting when pulling on the chain.

83 Percent Weight Savings

Compared to other retraction systems, users can save up to 83 percent of weight and require less than half the space. This allows for further improvement of the robot's performance. Additionally, costs are significantly reduced by eliminating the need for an extra retraction system. TRX can be easily connected to existing triflex R chains from the TRE series. As with triflex R, cables can be quickly fed from outside into the energy chain. The new TRX will be presented to interested parties by igus starting May 5, 2021, at its newly launched real-virtual trade fair.