Intelligent transport systems

Intelligent transport systems equipped with autonomous workpiece carriers offer the best conditions for designing flexible production systems.

The XTS transport system (for eXtended Transport System) from German manufacturer Beckhoff, for example, is well-established and tried and tested – an innovative linear transport system that moves magnetically controlled shuttles along an individually configurable route that can be travelled along in a variety of ways using switches. As it combines the precision and dynamics of linear motors with the positioning accuracy of rotary indexing tables, this reliable transport system opens up completely new possibilities when designing automated production systems.

Key facts about intelligent transport systems in production automation are listed below.

Intelligent linear transport systems can be a good option – but they are not the only one: we analyse, compare and implement the assembly concept that makes the most sense for you, both technically and economically.

Intelligent linear transfer system from Autec

AUTEC system for mounting contacts and a DAE membrane in a plastic housing with subsequent testing

The advantages of intelligent linear transport systems

  • High automation potential
    End-to-end automation reduces manual intervention, lowers labour costs and increases reproducibility.
  • Maximum flexibility
    Freely programmable movement of the shuttles (position, speed, direction) – ideal for variant production, batch size 1 or frequent product changes.
  • Individual process control
    Each shuttle can cycle, stop or accelerate independently; this enables asynchronous production.
  • Compact system design
    Curves, switches and – depending on the manufacturer – even inclines and vertical layouts can be realised and ensure low space requirements.
  • Highly dynamic and precise
    Very fast and precise movements possible (e.g. when sorting or buffering).
  • Low-wear, non-contact drive
    No classic mechanical wear; this ensures a longer service life and low maintenance requirements.
  • Seamless integration into automation systems
    Real-time control and simple coupling with processing and inspection stations, robotics, image processing, etc.
  • Flexible product changeover
    Other part carriers are simply adapted to the shuttles – fully automatically, if necessary, during operation. New processes can be easily defined via software.

Restrictions on the use of intelligent linear transport systems

  • Increased investment costs
    Sometimes more expensive than conventional conveyor technology, therefore more economical, especially for complex or multi-variant processes.
  • Complex commissioning
    Special requirements for planning, engineering and software integration.
  • Thermal load with high shuttle density
    Many shuttles in a confined space can cause the system to heat up.
  • Limited payload per shuttle
    The weight and size of the transported parts are limited – therefore not suitable for heavy loads.
  • Greater susceptibility to environmental influences
    In harsh industrial environments, dust, dirt or metal particles can affect the magnetic field or sensor technology, depending on the system design. However, cleanroom-compatible versions are also available for sensitive industries.

Conclusion

Intelligent linear transport systems enable maximum flexibility and are an excellent fit for modern, networked production in the sense of Industry 4.0. They offer precise, individually controllable motion sequences with a compact system layout – ideal for complex or multi-variant processes and small batch sizes.

Typical areas of application can be found in the electronics, high-tech, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. The main limitations are the maximum payload and robustness against difficult environmental conditions.

Ask the AUTEC assembly specialists about the most suitable automation concept for your specific requirements!