SPS: VAHLE shows innovations for automatic systems

"After the SPS unfortunately had to be canceled last year, we are all the more pleased to be able to present our new products such as the Smart Collector live to the public this time. In line with the trade fair motto 'Bringing Automation to Life', we are using this solution to ensure higher plant availability and productivity in automated systems," says Achim Dries, CEO of the VAHLE Group. With the world's first intelligent current collector on the market, the Kamen-based technology pioneer is also reducing maintenance costs. "The system collects analysis data on the condition of the conductor rails and their components and thus prevents faults at an early stage. This saves a lot of time and therefore money," says the CEO. VAHLE has now installed the system in three pilot plants. In addition, a production line of a German car manufacturer is currently being equipped with the Smart Collector.

At the trade fair for smart and digital automation, VAHLE will also be presenting a special highlight at its stand - the Rockwell Automation iTRACK. The ultra-compact CPS140 kHz inductive energy transfer system will be used there, which enables moving elements, also known as movers, to be continuously supplied with power without contact. "It also reduces the complexity of the energy supply and increases robustness," says Dries. As a result, higher process performance can be achieved compared to conventional energy transmission options. . The solution is therefore particularly suitable for system integrators and manufacturers of packaging machines and production lines.

The trade fair portfolio is rounded off by classic energy transfer systems such as conductor rails and charging contacts. "Here, too, our development is not standing still. We recently optimized the charging contacts for improved performance and especially for outdoor use," says Dries. The VCL all-in-one conductor rail has been specially designed for shuttle systems, automated small parts warehouses (AKL) and storage and retrieval machines (RGB) as well as for compact transfer and transfer trolley applications in the low and medium performance range. "In contrast to comparable solutions, the VCL stands out in particular due to its modularity, scalability and simple installation," emphasizes Dries. Components from the latest generation of control systems will also be on display at the stand. VAHLE can be found in Hall 4 at Stand 336.