Branch innovation at KIPP

Indexing plunger with integrated status sensor

HEINRICH KIPP WERK has introduced a really special indexing plunger to the market, in which an integrated sensor detects the actuated status. The signal is processed in the mushroom grip and sent wirelessly to the machine control or a mobile terminal. These indexing plungers belong to the FEATURE grip, product line, whose special features lie in the integrated electromechanical and sensory elements. They provide feedback on certain parameters or states and thus pave the way for progressive digitalisation with regard to Industry 4.0.

The FEATURE grip indexing plunger with status sensor ensures process reliability, which is becoming increasingly important in machine construction. The user can query from a central location whether the pin is retracted or not. This enables the machine control to determine e.g. that the machining cycle will not start until all pins are in the correct position.

KIPP offers the matching Gateway K1494 for linking to the control system. This interface enables the indexing plungers to be integrated into machines and installations. Which enables the actuated status of the components to be displayed, checked and used for process control. By connecting to a machine control system, it is possible to process information from up to six indexing plungers at the same time - however, users can expand this number by installing additional Gateways.

A major advantage of the indexing plunger with status sensor is the wireless transmission of the actuated status via Bluetooth Low Energy. The Gateway receives the radio signal and converts it into a standard output signal. Communication between the indexing plunger and the Gateway receiver is encrypted, and therefore secure. The system has a transmission range of up to 10 metres.

The indexing plunger is powered by an integrated button cell which can be replaced. Intelligent energy management increases battery life.