An overhead conveyor or transfer system is an elevated system that is used to transport items throughout the facility. In an Overhead Transfer System (OTS) the trolleys that hold the item are generally rings or hooks. This conveyor is particularly useful in transfers that require bends in the route. Such a conveyor is also important where the payload is heavy. For example: Automobile manufacturing.
In large scaled conveyor or Overhead Transfer System (OTS) systems, it is very important to maintain a seamless transfer between the critical transfer points. Although the conveying or transfer of jobs seems relatively straight forward, it requires a seamless handshake between the peripheral devices concerned. For this a reliable network architecture is required to ensure that the process goes smoothly.
Let us take an example of a Overhead Transfer System (OTS) system in a automobile manufacturing unit. The OTS system is used to transport the in-manufacturing vehicle through the various stages of the manufacturing process. In order to handle this process the operators at various workstations have to grab the rail and transfer the job to the next shop in perfect tandem with the on-going job at the station. The Overhead Transfer System (OTS) is operated by motors which are controlled by variable frequency drives (VFD’s); used to control the speeds of the motors that operate the arms as well as the grab’s lifting mechanism.
At the manufacturing site the equipment installed inside the cabinets communicate with each other using wired communications but the communication between cabinets take place over wi-fi to save cabling costs.
Key Requirements of Reliable Overhead Transfer System
A Reliable Network for Efficient Data Transfer
In industrial environments, ensuring reliable data transmission between the operator and the grab is essential for maintaining the manufacturing plant’s efficiency and safety. Additionally, an uninterrupted wireless connection is crucial to prevent collisions on the production line, safeguarding both property and personnel from potential harm.
Device Visibility on HMI
To enhance operational efficiency in the automation industry, operators need to directly monitor the system status. This necessitates a switch capable of interfacing with peripherals using various protocols, enabling operators to view the network from the HMI. This interface allows for real-time responses to network events, thereby reducing system downtime.
Moxa Smart Switch
Moxa SDS-3000 smart switches offer tailor-made traffic management solutions for OTS and conveyor applications. Built-in traffic function does not require the operator to have IT expertise to perform the configurations.
♢ In-built traffic management functions for communication between the operator and machines.
♢ 3 IA protocols embedded in the device, ensuring visibility of the network from the HMI.
♢ Compact design and flexible mounting options, allowing fitment in any industrial cabinet.
Engineers seek a hassle-free method to monitor control systems and network status via their SCADA/HMI, allowing timely responses to minimize system downtime. However, they often encounter operational complexity when deploying managed switches, particularly in setup and ongoing management.
Moxa’s super-slim SDS-300 simplifies configuration, presents flexible mounting options and has a easy-to-use interface which is suitable for control cabinets in smart manufacturing applications.
Moxa’s wired and wireless solutions are ideally built to withstand the challenges of the manufacturing environment.
For more information on our offerings, please reach out to us at lubi@lubielectronics.com.
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