Knowledge
Glossary: Conveyor Technology Terms
The terms used in our system descriptions, explained. Please feel free to link here whenever a term requires clarification.
Power & Free
A function that allows a trolley to stop and be buffered on a driven track while other trolleys continue through the system. This enables workstations and processes with different cycle times to operate within the same production flow.
RFID
A technology for the automatic identification and tracking of trolleys and associated goods. RFID tags on the trolleys are read at specific points in the system, allowing the control system to monitor the flow and direct the correct trolley to the right destination.
Friction Drive
A drive principle where the trolley is moved by friction against a drive belt or a rotating tube, instead of a traditional chain. This technology provides clean, quiet, and oil-free operation with low maintenance requirements and is the foundation of OCS overhead conveyor systems.
Load Carrier
The component attached beneath the trolley that carries or holds the goods. The load carrier is designed according to the product’s weight, dimensions, and handling requirements, and may consist of, for example, a beam, frame, or custom-made fixture.
Trolley
The unit that rolls on the rail to which the load carrier is attached. The trolley’s design and load capacity are adapted to the system class, load weight, and system function.
Transfer Trolley
A trolley that moves goods laterally between parallel tracks, allowing the flow to switch tracks without manual handling.
Buffer
A part of the system where trolleys and goods can wait before proceeding in the flow. The buffer levels out differences in cycle time and capacity between workstations and processes and can be positioned both along the production flow and vertically.
Switch
A component that directs the trolley from one track to another, similar to a railway switch. Switches are used to distribute trolleys between alternative transport routes, workstations, and buffer areas.
Incline
An inclined track section that transports trolleys and goods between different height levels, for example, from floor level during loading up to a higher transport level. The possible incline depends on the system type and load weight. Under other conditions, a vertical conveyor (VTD) may be used.
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