igus Provides Unique Problem-Solvers

By Shizu Yamaguchi

Early Adopters: Why Their Mindset Matters in Design Engineering

In the world of design engineering, innovation is essential. Yet, innovation often begins with a select group of individuals: early adopters. Representing roughly 13.5% of the population, early adopters are defined by their willingness to embrace new technologies and methods before they become mainstream. This mindset can be transformative, especially when solving complex engineering challenges.

So, why discuss early adopters here? Because if you identify as one or even as an innovator you’ll want to understand how our approach to unique problem-solving aligns with your drive for progress.

The Link Between Early Adoption and Unique Problem-Solvers

Early adopters thrive on solutions that push boundaries. They seek tools and technologies that deliver measurable improvements in performance, efficiency, and reliability. That’s precisely what igus components, what we’ll term in this article as “unique problem-solvers” offer.

Our ability to deliver these solutions stems from a continuous cycle of product development. Each year, we introduce multiple new products designed to address emerging challenges across industries. For engineers ahead of the curve, this means access to innovations that can redefine what’s possible.

What Are Unique Problem-Solvers and Why Do They Matter?

The term “unique problem-solver” isn’t marketing jargon; it reflects the DNA of our product line. Our very first innovation, a plastic bearing, was born from a real-world challenge our founder faced by an automotive manufacturer. Founder Günter Blase replaced traditional metal bearings with a polymer alternative, which introduced a cascade of benefits:

• Noise reduction
• Corrosion resistance
• FDA compliance
• Underwater capability
• Clean operation

From that single breakthrough, we’ve grown to offer over 120,000 components across four major product categories, serving more than 50 industries worldwide. Each product is engineered to solve problems conventional solutions cannot.

Examples of Unique Problem-Solvers in Action

Consider tribo-coating, a solution developed for complex metal geometries in production environments. Traditional tribo-tape, a plastic liner applied to protect metal surfaces, proved cumbersome for intricate shapes. Our spray-on tribo-coating eliminated that limitation, delivering protection without compromise.

Another example: lightweight, noise-free components for aerospace and automotive applications. By leveraging high-performance polymers, we’ve enabled designs that reduce weight and improve efficiency, both of which are critical factors in sectors where every gram counts. Our parts have even powered award-winning projects, such as the solar car built by students at École Polytechnique Montréal.

Proof Backed by Data and Guarantees

Innovation demands validation. That’s why we operate a 41,000-square-foot test laboratory at our headquarters in Cologne, Germany. Here, we conduct 15,000+ tests annually, generating data that informs our online configurators for bearings, energy chains, linear systems, and cables. This commitment to transparency is reinforced by our four-year product guarantee.

Explore more:

• Our Test Lab
• Design Awards

What’s in It for You?

For design engineers, the value is clear: access to a toolkit of proven, innovative solutions. Whether you’re optimizing performance, reducing maintenance, or tackling a unique design challenge, our products and our expertiseare here to help.

Next Steps

Connecting with us is simple:

• Call: 1-800-965-2496 (Mon–Fri, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. EST)
• Location: Vaughan, Ontario
• Live Chat: Available on our website
• Download: igusGO App for instant product recommendations; just snap a photo of your application.

Early adopters don’t wait for change, they create it. If that describes you, let’s start solving problems together.

Edited with the assistance of AI tools to ensure clarity and flow.