The Kübler Industrial Line offers a flexible modular system for transmitting power, signals, and data. In addition to slip ring modules for load currents up to 150 A at 1000 V, solutions are available for protocol-independent, secure data transmission up to 1 Gbit/s. The familiar ring slip ring modules are supplemented by two alternative Ethernet modules. The space-saving, PCB-based Ethernet module significantly increases flexibility in layout design without compromising on reliable and high-performance data transmission. This is a clear advantage in the notoriously confined installation spaces of modern installations. There is also a new product for applications with particularly high rotational speeds or very high demands on service life: a contactless Ethernet module enables completely wear-free data transmission.
Industrial Line slip rings offer a wide range of connection technology options. Thanks to the seamless integration of sensor technology, the slip ring is evolving from a transmission component into an intelligent interface. This enables precise positioning feedback, the determination of rotational speed and a counting function. It can also be used to record environmental data, such as temperature. The options for conducting liquids and gases have also been expanded with an innovative solution: the new version of the air duct is implemented outside the hollow shaft. This means it can be used freely or, for example, for the new contactless Ethernet module.
Up to 70 percent less installation space
Of the innovations described, the space-saving PCB-based Ethernet module is the highlight. The compact solution is based on PCB technology with radially arranged transmission paths and enables a reduction in installation space of up to 70 percent compared to conventional slip ring solutions. The modules are flexible in size and layout and are available as an element within the Industrial Line or as a standalone variant. A standalone version is the ideal solution for very space-sensitive applications that only require Ethernet transmission, for example. In the example presented, transmission of two 100 Mbit/s or one 1 Gbit/s Ethernet connections is possible, as well as two additional load transmission channels with 10 A / 60 V for control electronics.
Expansion kits for retrofitting
The space-saving modules are not only suitable for new systems. Existing systems are also being gradually modernized. In particular, sensors and actuators are being retrofitted, and point-to-point communication is giving way to Ethernet architecture. The additional demand for data and transmission paths is a hurdle for transmission solutions in the machines. At the latest, the transmission of Ethernet to the rotating ends of the machines becomes a challenge. Replacing existing slip ring solutions is a very complex task with significant investment costs due to the limited installation space on existing machines. The standalone version of the Ethernet module is therefore also the ideal solution for retrofitting existing systems due to its low space requirements.
The compact standalone module eliminates the high costs associated with replacing existing slip rings. This opens new opportunities for cost-effective modernization, for example when introducing new network technologies. Industrial Line technology not only offers flexibility in the design of new slip rings for new systems but is also the ideal solution for every phase of a system's service life.
