ODU Connectors secures docking and charging interfaces for autonomous industrial operations

Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are the main pillars of automation in modern industry. Maximum precision, error-free communication between components and reliable operation even under harsh environmental conditions are the decisive factors for greater efficiency in production environments.

Connections of high load capacity, durability and flexibility ensure maximum availability when short charging times, secure contacting and reliable connections are crucial, even with frequent docking, vibrations and mechanical tolerances. High insertion cycle counts and consistently stable electrical contacts are therefore crucial for high vehicle availability.

The interface must reliably compensate for positioning deviations while also providing protection against accidental contact. Depending on the application, signals, data, or fluids may also need to be transmitted via the same connection.

How a modular design enables integration of different transmission media into a single interface

Due to their modular design, the expanded range of connectors in ODU Connectors‘ ODU-MAC line are ideal for combining different transmission media in one interface. Modular ODU-MAC Silver-Line connectors can combine various media into a single interface with radial positional deviations of up to four millimetres, more than 100,000 mating cycles, up to 225A per module, with built-in IP2X touch protection for user safety.

Fibre-optic Expanded Beam Performance modules do not need cleaning under normal conditions, so reducing the risk of maintenance-related downtime.

For maximum charging power, ODU-MAC Power Connectors use bridged busbars with two or three contacts. Also, by incorporating modules from the ODU-MAC Blue-Line portfolio allows a single connector can combine power with signal, data, fluid and other interfaces.

The use of modular connectors allows for the development of solutions that not only fit into current AGV and AMR systems but also allow for future extensions.

With the targeted combination of high current, long service life, mechanical tolerance, contact protection and a wide range of media, OEMs and system integrators can make their docking and charging more reliable.