Energy supply installed cost-effectively and in a flash in SRU lanes

The e-chain system® autoglide 5 proves itself in productive use at Gebhardt Intralogistics

Profile

autoglide 5 in the lane at Gebhardt Intralogistics

What was needed: energy supply for storage and retrieval machines, alternative to the busbar system
Requirements: cost-effective for use in short aisles, maintenance-free, easy to clean, simple and quick to install
Area of application: material handling

The Gebhardt Intralogistics Group develops and produces system solutions for in-house logistics. From simple conveyor rollers to complete, electronically controlled intralogistics systems - the family-owned company produces everything itself at its plants in Sinsheim and Pirmasens and, with 70 years of logistics expertise, is in demand worldwide.

Problem

In the technology and test centre that Gebhardt operates in Sinsheim and uses for production supply, a Cheetah AKL storage and retrieval unit is installed alongside pallet conveyor and shuttle technology. Traditionally, busbar systems are used for energy transmission in storage and retrieval systems, but these have a number of disadvantages. They have to be cleaned and maintained regularly, the contacts of the current collector are susceptible to wear and the price for short aisles is relatively high. In addition, the planning, project planning and installation with all the associated components such as photocells, transmitters, receivers etc. are very time-consuming.

Solution

With autoglide 5, igus® has developed an innovative cable carrier system for horizontal use that does not require a guide trough at all. It is constructed using a cable tensioned on the floor. The energy chain with cable for energy, data, liquids or even air can travel safely and quietly at 4 m/s on this cable. Without a guide trough, 50 % of the hall floor remains free, the cleaning effort is reduced and maintenance is eliminated. Another highlight: installation is simple and can be completed in a flash. The complete autoglide 5 system, including all cables, was installed at Gebhardt in just three hours. It would have taken 1.5 days for a busbar system, not including setting up the data transmission. Gebhardt has now been using the igus® system for a year and is very satisfied.