For more about SEW-Eurodrive EMS, see "Wireless Control Sets Automated Vehicles Free" on p.54

The system uses Movitrans contactless (inductive) energy transfer and wireless Ethernet for communications. Power, data, control, visualization and diagnostics signals are transported over an air gap. Absolute positioning is controlled by bar codes along the rails and bar code readers on the trolleys.

Decentralized control enables individual trolley speeds to vary and be easily adjusted for changes in production requirements or process variables. Controls are governed by parametrics rather than programming, simplifying installation and startup. The system incorporates decentralized power supply, operator panel; vehicles; switch; continuous diagnostics; in sequence, just in time material flow; an absolute encoder system; and decentralized segment controller. Configuration and diagnostics are accessible via client window on a PC or in the operator panel.

Contactless energy transfer uses a fixed conductor and one or more mobile carriers to transfer the power. U-shaped or flat pickups around the line cable induce electrical energy into mobile converters. Air gap transfer makes Movitrans energy transfer maintenance free. It doesn’t cause wear and is resistant to external pollution. Leaky wave antennae cables enable close-range wireless communication, preventing noise and interference.

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