Every two years, the most creative applications of igus® Energy Chain Systems® are recognized with the vector® award. The entry phase for the 2014 vector® award competition is now underway.

East Providence, Rhode Island December 16, 2013

Every two years, the most creative applications of igus® Energy Chain Systems® are recognized with the vector® award. Whether a tiny energy chain or an enormous application, anyone can apply online to present their idea to the panel of judges, entering in the running for a first prize purse of $6,884 (€5,000) at the awards ceremony, to be held at the Hannover Trade Fair in Germany, April 2014.

An expert judging panel, comprised of representatives of the world of science and specialist associations, will evaluate the applications and select a first, second, and third prize winner among the entrants. Anyone who put Energy Chain Systems to new uses is encouraged to enter the competition regardless of their industry. "The vector® award is an extremely important part of our development work," explained Joseph Ciringione, National Sales and Product Manager for igus Energy Chain Systems. "We use it to support innovations and promote new potential uses for Energy Chains.

Overview of Previous Entrants and Winners

Further information, including the competition terms and conditions, as well as information about previous winners, can be found at http://www.vector-award.com/USA. Winning applications include the KUKA Cobra, a compact robot that loads and unloads presses, a treatment plant using the largest plastic Energy Chain, the E4-350, and a woodworking application using the 1440º rotations of the igus TwisterBand. Past winners include the applications of exercise trainers in the field of physiotherapy and mobile launch pads for rockets. The application deadline is February 15, 2014.

About igus®

igus® develops industry-leading Energy Chain® cable carriers, Chainflex® continuous-flex cables, DryLin® linear bearings and linear guides, iglide® plastic bushings, and igubal® spherical bearings. These seemingly unrelated products are linked together through a belief in making functionally advanced, yet affordable plastic components and assemblies. With plastic bearing experience since 1964, cable carrier experience since 1971 and continuous-flex cable since 1989, igus provides the right solution from over 80,000 products available from stock. No minimum order required. For more information, contact igus at 1-800-521-2747 or visit http://www.igus.com.