Igus is inviting applications from engineers from all over the world for the Vector Award, which recognises unique applications with energy chain systems. For the ninth time, igus is honouring design engineers and project managers for creative, courageous use of energy supply systems and cables made of high-performance plastic. Winners will receive prize money of up to €5,000. Artificial intelligence, machine learning and Industry 4.0 are trending topics in the media and the public. "But it’s easy to forget that engineers are making amazing progress in other relatively inconspicuous areas as well - in cable and hose guidance in machines and systems, for instance," says Michael Blass, CEO e-chain Systems at igus. This requires more and more skill and expertise on the part of design engineers. Customers are demanding more than ever before: hydraulic hoses weighing tons that move in a fail-safe manner over more than 1 km in gigantic bucket-wheel excavators, for example. Data cables that can follow the wildest of 3D movements on articulated arm robots in factories. Energy chain systems that meet the strictest cleanroom requirements in the world in electronics production. Control cables that can fit in even the smallest installation spaces, barely larger than a cigar box. "Every day, we see how design engineers around the world implement extraordinary ideas with our energy chains and cables to meet increasingly stringent requirements. And long-lasting e-chain systems contribute greatly to sustainability," says Blass. "We are honouring these solutions, which often stay under the radar but are increasingly influencing product cost-effectiveness, with the 2024 vector award."

Engineers can now enter the competition for the vector at www.igus.eu/vector-award. The deadline for entries is 9th February 2024. A panel of expert judges drawn from science, specialist media, industrial trade shows and professional associations will then examine the project and reward the most powerful, extraordinary ideas characterised by courage and creativity. The winner will receive the golden vector trophy and €5,000 in prize money. Second place receives the silver vector and €2,500 and third place the bronze vector and €1,000. The green vector comes with €1,000 and goes to projects featuring sustainability. The vector awards ceremony in 2024 will be held at the Hannover Messe.

Igus is awarding the vector for the ninth time. The competition has been taking place every two years since 2008 and is enjoying increasing popularity worldwide. In 2022, 233 applications were sent in from 36 countries. Gepber Szinpad, a Hungarian company, won first place for a multifunctional hall with automated rows of chairs that change formation at the push of a button. Dercks Gartenbau received the green vector for developing a precise watering trolley for potted plants. "The vector award is also an excellent opportunity for engineers and companies to attract attention expand their network and win new customers," says Blass. "With this in mind, we hope for many exciting projects this year as well."