Bernhard Säckl (Head of Product Management Rectangular Connectors at ODU GmbH & Co. KG) talks about some of the recent product developments in their ODU-MAC® Blue-Line range.
Over the last decade, ODU has continued to refine the range of variants for its modular rectangular connectors via the addition of a large number of modules and numerous cable-hood versions, thus greatly expanding the possible applications.
ODU-MAC®Blue-Line
With the ODU-MAC® Blue-Line, ODU offers economical solutions for medical devices, as well as test and measurement applications.
Whether you need robust connectors for test and measurement equipment, frequent mating cycles in the medical sector, or to meet heightened safety requirements in the automotive field – as one of the most compact hybrid connectors in its class, the ODU-MAC®Blue-Line combines cost-effectiveness with simple and space-saving handling for a wide range of applications. For more information click here
Custom connectors
ODU supports its customers with tailored connector solutions that allow them to serve new growth markets quickly and with the highest degree of reliability. A current example of this is a mobile, autonomous, robotic cleaning device developed by pan-European company ProLog AirClean GmbH.
It cleans, disinfects and rids the air of contaminants, such as coronavirus, bacteria, allergens, and odours. As the pandemic-stricken years have shown – clean indoor air is more important than ever.
Thanks to ODU’s technical expertise, the substructure of this robot unit was equipped with a quick-change function for different uses – based on a customized connector. With the matching attachments, 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.
The modular design of the ODU-MAC® Blue-Line made it possible to tailor the various applications specifically to the customer’s neds. The fact that the main electronics can remain under the cover during the changeover has also increased safety for employees.
Medical sector
The company’s flexible connectors are also in demand in the medical sector (C-Arm X-ray machines, devices for shock wave therapy, etc.) as well as in industrial test and measurement applications (e.g., automotive testing, hardware in the loop).
ODU’s use of space-saving crimp-clip contacts allows compact designs with a high packing density. Handling is also greatly simplified thanks to assembly and disassembly without additional tools.
For cable assemblies, the double-shell plastic housing combines low weight with high durability and meets the strictest safety requirements for assembly and handling.
ODU contact technology ensures stable contact resistance over the guaranteed 10,000 mating cycles.
Safe handling is also ensured thanks to ODU’s spindle locking, which reduces the risk of injury.
Push-Lock
ODU is also the first manufacturer to offer the option of a new push-lock housing for its rectangular connectors, based on its proven circular connector push-pull locking system. More info click here
Mixed media
Thanks to many years of research and experience, the company also offers the ODU-MAC® Blue-Line for the safe transmission of combined media such as signals, power, high current, high voltage, coax, compressed air, fluids, data, and fibre-optics.
High voltage
One of the latest Blue-Line modules enables the transmission of high voltages up to 4,000 volts, of
particular interest to the automotive industry. For example, the company’s 2-contact high-voltage module is already being used for high-voltage measurements in battery storage systems.
Maximum user safety is ensured thanks to the extended clearance and creepage distances.
Data transmission
Another recurring topic is the demand for maximum safety and reliability during the transmission of highly sensitive data. This is especially true in the field of test and measurement technology.
As a suitable solution, ODU offers several data technology connectors with 360° shielding that can be integrated into the ODU-MAC Blue-Line system – naturally, also fully assembled and with certified data technology, with off-the-shelf solutions for standard transmission protocols, such as HDMI standards, CAT 5 and CAT 6A, USB® 2.0 and 3.2 Gen 1×2, Ethernet, SPE and Display Port® 2.0.
New ODU-MAC® Black-Line Series
Based on experience with the Blue-Line series connectors, ODU is introducing the Black-Line range, developed specifically for use in mass interconnect systems in the area of test and measurement.
The large number of available modules ensures maximum flexibility. The focus here is on testing printed circuit boards (PCBs) and electronically configured units – an essential task, especially in production and development departments.
Specifically, the ODU connectors provide the interface between the devices/units under test (D/UUT) and the respective test instruments. The tester side (receiver) is coupled with the test
adapter (ITA = Interchangeable Test Adapter) on the side under test.
The coupling options include a mechanical version with a manual lever and a new innovative, electromechanical locking system, actuated at the push of a button. This allows automation via remote control. Twelve individual, floating docking frames with guiding pins ensure a smooth mating
process and high contact safety. Without this matching interface system inside the test adapter, the verification process would be far more time consuming and prone to errors.
Tailored Systems
Naturally, ODU produces a vast range of standard connectors, but when ‘standard’ just does not provide the right answer, then a bespoke solution might be needed.
Thanks to its high vertical range of manufacture, close contact with customers and markets, and complete service from a single source for the development of customized connector solutions (including assembly), ODU offers tailored systems that are extremely cost-effective.
Whatever the problem, then get in touch – we love a challenge.