Powerful yet compact

As a leading international supplier of connector systems, ODU, based in Mühldorf am Inn, supports its customers with tailored connector solutions that enable them to serve new growth markets quickly and reliably. A current example of this is a mobile cleaning device developed by the pan-European company ProLog AirClean GmbH out of Freiburg. It cleans, disinfects, and rids the air of contaminants, such as the coronavirus, bacteria, allergens, and odors. Indeed, the last two pandemic-stricken years have shown that clean indoor air is more important than ever.

With the aid of ODU’s technical expertise, the substructure of this mobile, autonomous robot unit was equipped with a quick-change function for different use cases – based on a customized connector.  With the matching attachment, this allows professionals in the care sector to use the ProClean AGV as a mobile ward trolley for their morning rounds. Afterwards, the trolley attachment can then be removed and the cleaning attachment mounted for a different task altogether.  

Strict safety requirements

The modular design of the ODU-MAC® Blue-Line made it possible to configure and combine the various applications in accordance with the customer’s wishes. The fact that the main electronics can remain under the cover during the changeover has also increased safety for employees.

Over the past decade, ODU has further refined its range of variants for modular rectangular connectors with numerous modules and cable hoods in seven sizes. The range of applications has also been greatly expanded. The company’s flexible connectors are also in demand in the medical sector; for example, in C-Arm X-ray machines and devices for shock wave therapy.

Reliable interface with easy handling

The ODU-MAC® RAPID double-shell plastic housing combines easy assembly with significant time savings. The enclosure is open during assembly, which not only simplifies the process and ensures correct cable routing, but also makes subsequent adjustments quick and easy.

In addition, ODU contact technology ensures stable contact resistance – over the guaranteed 10,000 mating cycles. This is especially crucial for medical applications. Safe handling is also ensured thanks to the spindle locking, which minimizes the risk of injury. With its Push-Lock solution, ODU is the first manufacturer to combine a rectangular connector with the proven push-pull locking system.

Based on many years of research and experience, the ODU-MAC® Blue-Line offers reliable transmission of combined media such as signals, power, high current, high voltage, coax (HF), compressed air, fluid, data rates, and fiber optics. The space-saving crimp-clip contacts ensure a compact connector solution.

Due to its high vertical range of manufacture, close contacts with customers, and market-specific know-how, ODU can offer custom connector solutions including assembly. This complete service from a single source provides customers with a tailor-made overall system that is highly cost-effective.

About the author

Bernhard Säckl is Head of Product Management Rectangular Connectors at ODU GmbH & Co. KG.