Designplus winners 2024

FlexLine® introduces the next level of speed and flexibility in electrical installations. The universal concept of the Flex terminals sets new standards in terms of flexibility and space saving.

FlexLine® is an integrated system that can reduce installation time by up to 50 %. The use of tools is also reduced to a minimum when installing FlexLine®. Instead of using screws, the cables are simply pushed in from the front. Simply insert the cable by pushing horizontally against the opening of the load-side push-in terminal without the need for a screwdriver or any tools. The force of the spring keeps the pressure on the cable at a constant level, eliminating the need to tighten them after installation, as required by most wiring regulations. And thanks to its push-in busbar terminals, FlexLine busbars can be installed in a quick and time-saving way as well.

These are the four pillars of FlexLine®:

• Faster installation thanks to push-in technology: The terminals on the outgoing side are designed to enable tool-free installation and wiring. Stripped conductors can be inserted into the spring-loaded terminal. The phase busbar is also completely pluggable.
• Flexible wiring layout with flex terminals: Thanks to their flex terminals, all FlexLine® protection devices can be flexibly combined with only one type of busbar, as the phase sequence is always the same. Single devices can quickly be replaced without removing the busbar. Use the screw terminal to supply both devices and busbar with rigid, flexible cables and flexible cables with ferrules.
• Space-saving design thanks to the compact size of the devices: FlexLine® has been developed to save up to 50% on the space in the consumer unit. The FlexLine® range does not only save space thanks to its slim design, the double slot terminals also allow the devices as well as the the busbar to be supplied without a feed in module. Additionally, FlexLine® protection devices can be flexibly combined with one type of busbar thanks to their flex terminals, allowing a higher number and variety of devices to fit in one row, saving even more space.
• Convenient installation from the front: For the smoothest installation process possible, all load side terminals on the top have been positioned in such a way that allows horizontal cable insertion. No need to squeeze your fingers into the small gap between the rows to insert a cable. Color-coded phase and neutral terminals are making your installation even easier.

The members of our FlexLine® family:

• Miniature Circuit Breakers (SX201 / SX203)
• Residual Current Circuit Breakers (FX202 / FX204)
• RCBOs (DSX301C / DSX203NC)
• Arc Fault Detection Device (SX-ARC1)
• FlexLine® busbars & accessories (PSX & BSKX)

And all of this perfectly fits into our Consumer Units AK/UK 600 by ABB STRIEBEL & JOHN GmbH.

IThe new Ixa luminaire family was created in collaboration with Foster & Partners: inspired by the dynamic sculptures of Alexander Calder, the design follows the idea of "elegant balance" through precision engineering. A spherical head that rotates freely through 360° separates the power supply from the mechanics and is connected to the structure by a magnetic connection. In this way, it invites physical interaction and can be conveniently aligned in all directions. The multiple plug-in connections also allow the luminaire to rotate 360° without restriction and can be precisely positioned in various ways. For the floor-standing version, the luminaire is balanced with a spherical counterweight.

Ixa is an expression of functional, productive and sustainable intelligence. Environmental friendliness and functionality were the most important criteria in the selection of materials and production processes. The simple, soft shapes and minimalist design underline the versatility of the luminaire, as it blends harmoniously into a wide variety of contexts.

The Ixa family consists of floor, table, wall and ceiling versions. The floor, wall and ceiling versions are available in two different sizes.

Busch-art linear®/Alba is the new, sustainable switch series from Busch-Jaeger and is the result of an intensive examination of form, material, colors, the environment, responsibility and the future. The series consists of recycled and recyclable materials. All plastic parts of the new series are made of at least 92% (white plastic) to 98% (black plastic) recyclate. In addition, these plastics are in turn recyclable. This is absolutely unique in this segment so far.

Busch-Art linear®/Alba follows the philosophy of Cradle-to-Cradle, whose model is the perfect eco-efficiency of nature: healthy and regenerative productivity. Even more: We have committed ourselves to the Sustainable Development Goals of the UN, which focus not only on climate policy goals but also on social justice.

°plug is a minimalistic tubular light fixture that allow infinite variations. The modular light line consists of tubes that form a luminous network. The name refers to the 'jack plug', an electrical connector that provides a simple switching principle.
°plug makes all conceivable connections possible in a grid with building blocks of 15cm or a multiple.

Hecker EnergyVision GenII is a highly efficient, patented, anti-reflective glass that ensures high performance and optimum beam characteristics in technical luminaires. Thanks to this exclusive property of the glass, you can set the optimum efficiency level for the luminaire's beam and thus achieve efficiency increases of over 20% in flat beam angles. This enables you to increase the number of lumens/W and to achieve wider and more homogeneous illumination, e.g. in street lighting, which saves energy and reduces the number of needed light points.

JUNG HOME "smartifies" buildings - without a server and without the Internet. From the power socket with an energy measurement function to the room thermostat, all the components communicate wirelessly with each other via the secure, global Bluetooth® Mesh radio standard. The new system is based on the conventional 230-volt installation, so every building, whether old or new, already meets the requirements for the new smart control with JUNG HOME. Easy to install, comfortable to use.

Smart homes and smart buildings are important components for meeting the increased requirements for energy and resource efficiency, building operation and also user comfort. The JUNG HOME system launched in the autumn of 2022 is the "missing link" between classic installations and smart home solutions. With JUNG HOME, a simple system has been developed with which buildings can be "smartified" - completely, in parts or also step by step. The system is based on the conventional 230-volt installation that is present in every building, whether old or new.

Communication via radio
From the socket with an energy measurement function to the room thermostat - in JUNG HOME all components communicate wirelessly with each other. Bus lines as in previous KNX-based smart home systems are unnecessary. To simplify installation, the devices exchange information wirelessly, with the Bluetooth® Mesh radio standard being used. The mesh principle ensures comprehensive wireless coverage, with devices such as push-buttons and sockets that are connected to the 230-volt mains serving as transmitters and receivers at the same time. They amplify incoming signals and pass on commands. Because their radio waves interlock like a fabric mesh, the stability of the network increases with each new node. The installation of JUNG HOME can start with a SCHUKO® socket or a push-button and can be extended as required - from room to room or floor by floor.

Wireless push-button with battery operation
A power supply connector socket isn’t always available where control points are desired. This is where JUNG HOME battery-powered push-buttons come into play. Thanks to an adhesive pad, these are freely positionable and adhere to all smooth surfaces, including wall tiles, bathroom mirrors and kitchen cabinets. Alternatively, switch multiframes can supplement existing control points without requiring an additional installation box, meaning maximum functionality with minimum installation effort.

Operation via app and voice control
The JUNG HOME app for Android and iOS is available for free-of-charge download in the app stores. With just a few clicks, the smart home system can be set up and handed over to users. All the users use the same app - the installer to configure the devices, rooms and scenes, and the users for daily operation via a smartphone or tablet. The JUNG HOME Gateway connects the local, encrypted JUNG HOME radio network with the outside world. It is certified by the VDE Institute and has been awarded the "Smart Home - Information Security Tested" seal. The gateway establishes contact between the local Bluetooth® Mesh and the secure JUNG Cloud. Cloud-based Internet services such as Amazon Alexa and Google Home can thus communicate with JUNG HOME devices. From 2023, connection with Samsung SmartThings will also be possible. Integration into the WORKS WITH mediola® manufacturer network also enables users to link a variety of IoT-enabled products to their home and control them using JUNG HOME push-buttons, for example.

Attractive and comfortable
With JUNG HOME, new buildings, existing buildings, individual apartments and areas can easily become smart. Various scenarios such as "Save heating costs" or "Switch off stand-by devices" support daily user behaviour, while modes such as "Good morning" or "Goodbye" ensure maximum comfort. All the push-buttons, attachments and sockets are available in the JUNG A, CD and LS series designs, with the classic LS 990 also available in the 63 colours of Les Couleurs® Le Corbusier. Thus, the system fits perfectly into any living environment and allows for gradual expansion. The question of conventional or smart installation may not even arise in the future.

The JUNG HOME system is advantageous because it is ...
SIMPLE. System inserts replace conventional flush-mounted devices such as dimmers, push-buttons and blind controls. Installing JUNG HOME components is as easy as installing a light switch.
SCALEABLE. From the individual, smart SCHUKO® socket to the completely networked house, JUNG HOME grows with demands and takes care of light, shade, energy consumption and temperature. A gateway enables voice control and connection with other systems.
HIGH QUALITY. With more than 110 years of experience in electrical and building technology, JUNG stands for premium "Made in Germany” quality. In an age of fragile supply chains and growing demands in construction, this is an advantage that should not be underestimated.
ATTRACTIVE. All the push-buttons, attachments and sockets are available in the medial JUNG A, CD and LS series designs, with the classic LS 990 also available in the 63 colours of Les Couleurs® Le Corbusier. Thus, the system fits perfectly into any living environment and allows for gradual expansion.
INTUITIVE. A smartphone is all that is needed for on-site configuration. The JUNG HOME app makes contact with the devices via Bluetooth®. Complete commissioning and app control are possible without a WLAN router, server or Internet connection.
DIRECT. As soon as the system inserts are installed and the covers are attached, all buttons, actuators and the other JUNG HOME devices can already be operated - even without an app or special commissioning.
SAFE. All radio connections in JUNG HOME are encrypted and authenticated with 128-bit AES. Communication takes place locally between the devices. The smart home has no connection to the Internet unless customers specifically request it - for example for voice control.
FLEXIBLE. The Bluetooth® Mesh radio standard ensures robust transmission with a long range. Mesh is standardised worldwide and is based on Bluetooth® technology, which has been proven a million times over. This means that in the future it will be possible to extend JUNG HOME using the components of other suppliers.

Textile lighting solutions are ideal for illuminating larger areas, for free-form shapes and for achieving dynamic light. They allow for easy assembly and draping, i.e. they can be formed into (almost) any shape, textile lighting solutions provide new design options in non-textile products too, and provide greater flexibility in complicated installation situations.

Sustainably developed: The Junistar Bio sets new standards in environmentally friendly lighting. Made from biocircular material made from waste and residues of biological origin, such as: B. used cooking oil is obtained. This innovative approach reduces the carbon footprint by an impressive 94% compared to traditional polycarbonate.

Lightweight and efficient: The Junistar Bio is not only good for the environment, but also for your installation. It weighs approximately 40% less than traditional recessed lights, making it easier to transport and install. It also offers outstanding energy efficiency of 100lm/W at 5W and a high light quality of 520lm at 3000K with a color rendering value of over 90.

Easy installation & versatility: With patented, innovative springs, installing the Junistar Bio is a breeze.

The nstouch touch panels feature an elegant design, a variety of materials and customised pictograms.

Design:

• Series of switches made of artificial stone and metal encrustation with a product thickness of 8 mm.
• Emphasis on the sensitivity of the cancel buttons, haptics and soft click sound.
• Symbol library allows labelling of each button.
• Possibility of ordering customised pictograms.

Special features:

• Easy to integrate into any interior, easy to connect and convenient to use.
• Control of lighting, air conditioning, music, automatic curtains and blinds, multimedia systems and blinds.

Blu2Light is the first open Bluetooth wireless technology system with mesh functionality for the professional lighting market, offering diverse light control features and added value for luminaire manufacturers.

Features:

• Operates with 12-48 VDC input voltages.
• Generates higher forward voltages for LEDs, even at low battery voltages.
• Compatible with direct voltages from gel to Li-ion batteries and their charging
• voltages.
• Efficient LED driver with minimized system-related losses (DigiLED CC).
• Optional battery monitor via Bluetooth mesh interface enables proactive control of LED lighting.

Applications:

• Ideal for networked solar street and pathway lights.
• Suitable for use in energy-autonomous island systems in boatbuilding or caravanning.

Sustainability:

• Avoids device variants and sustainably reduces electronic components.
• Contributes to CO2 reduction through a green, efficient, and networked LED driver for the energy transition.

The Wiha tool backpack for maximum freedom in the professional work day

Anyone who frequently works in high buildings with many stairs or has to climb on roofs, ladders or scaffolding knows how important it is to have two free hands when transporting tools. The same goes for those who have to carry other materials in addition to their tools, who work in places that are difficult to access, such as lift shafts, or who travel by bicycle. Wiha developed a product solution that precisely addresses these challenges, offering special functions that support professionals in various ways during their daily work – the Wiha tool backpack sets in two versions for electrical or mechanical applications.

Everything securely stowed away
In addition to the basic equipment of professional tools, depending on the content variation, the backpack also offers plenty of storage space inside for further equipment or luggage. A separate back compartment allows users to store their laptop or documents separate from the tools. Valuables, glasses or sensitive instruments can be kept either in a specially protected side compartment or a storage compartment in the front. The cleverly conceived compartment system makes removing and returning tools clearly structured and extremely easy. Via the quick access option, it is even possible with 1/3 opening of the backpack. A total of 77 storage and 30 flexible attachment possibilities ensure maximum freedom for individual content. Convenient loops allow the backpack to be individually expanded and supplemented with the universal Molle system. A large variety of Molle accessories can be purchased online according to your own preferences.

Robust, stable and durable
Thanks to its sturdy bottom shell, the backpack stands securely and stably when closed or opened, even on rough or sloping ground. It also protects the interior from dirt or humidity. The surface material is made of sturdy, resilient and splash water proof material 1680D. The durable YKK zippers open and close smoothly.

Ergonomic comfortable tool transport
Adjustable to any body size and breathable shoulder and chest straps ensure good weight distribution and ergonomically beneficial saving of effort. In combination with the well ventilated carrying elements and back padding, this results in a comfortable wearing sensation. Lifting the backpack at its study anti-slip handle is also convenient thanks to the hard and soft components. Whether by land, sea or air – this Wiha innovation is an overall concept that will facilitate work assignments of professionals in the future and help them to literally "shoulder" the various challenges of their work day in a more comfortable and convenient way.