MOTION SYSTEM TRENDS
Specialized conveyors
keep jobs going
Some conveyors such as this adjustable-width timing-belt conveyor from mk North America can carry parts of different widths and lengths for more functionality than traditional designs or those that require complex changeover processes to accommodate new workpieces.
CONVEYORS AND THEIR SUBSYSTEMS such as
in-line weigh stations and complementary inspection systems are seeing increased use. Many of these are run by motors that are more efficient than ever. The latest designs also include new forms of wiring and connectivity that satisfy the latest standards. Motor-driven roller or MDR conveying systems remain crucial in industries such as intralogistics, packaging, food and beverage, and assembly. The motorized rollers on rollerbased conveyors can either couple to a gearmotor on the
conveyor flank or directly integrate motors called drum motors inside their cylindrical bodies — in turn usually made of stainless steel. MDR conveyors position items with moderate accuracy as in automated warehousing might employ only motorized rollers. In contrast, systems or sections of conveyor with laxer requirements (or relying on peripheral systems for final positioning functions) might gang some number of unpowered rollers to each powered roller via cords or bands made of round polyurethane belt. These bands loop around and nestle into grooves on the powered and unpowered roller ends; tension keeps the round bands firmly set in their grooves and facilitates the transmission of power from motorized roller to ganged passive rollers.
The EP7402 EtherCAT Box from Beckhoff is a multi-zone controller for motor-driven roller (MDR) conveyors — regardless of the conveyor or roller-motor vendor.
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3 • 2020
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