Form and function: Award-winning office chain

"This award is regarded as a trend radar for design, brands and technological breakthroughs," says Justin Leonard, director e-chains at igus UK. "So igus is delighted to have won with the Office Chain OCO in the category 'Excellent Product Design - Office Furniture'. The award reflects our continuous efforts to develop innovative products that have both strong functionality and design."

The Office Chain is made of high-performance plastic, designed to guide cables from height-adjustable desks smoothly and safely without snagging. The links of the e-chain are shaped in such a way that they fit together seamlessly without visible joints or screw connections. "Their one-piece design with a hidden bolt-bore connection gives a clean, aesthetic look from the side," explains Leonard. The e-chain also has a uniform colour scheme that gives it a professional and modern appearance.

The expert panel commented: "This oval energy chain impresses with its elegant, matt surface and simple design, which integrates seamlessly into any office environment. Thanks to the links that are closed on one side and the magnetic attachment, not only is it easy to use, but it encourages a tidy environment."

Users can attach the chain to the underside of the table top with a magnetic holder. The lower end is connected to a fixed point - for example to the table base or a cable duct and the various cables are then pushed through tabs into the individual segments of the energy chain - job done. Fitting requires no tools. "Thanks to the tried-and-tested design, cables are easily concealed," says Leonard. If the user adjusts the desk, the energy chain folds and stretches smoothly to an upright position. The cables are safely guided to avoid getting knotted or snagged, and with no tensile stress, it reduces the likelihood of cable failure.