Antriebssysteme für Stückgutsortieranlagen – Eine Bestandsaufnahme

Abstract

Sorting of packaged goods represents one of the most complex and laborious processes of distribution. Current distribution centres rely on highly automated sorting machines composed of a chain of product carriers. The propulsion system of these sorter chains is of interest regarding overall facility efficiency. State-of-the-art drive systems use non-contact, maintenance-free linear inductive motors. A severe disad-vantage of this drive concept is its low degree of efficiency of less than 25 %. In view of increasing energy costs this disadvantage will become more important in near future. Optimising the efficiency of current linear inductive motors represents one option. Another option is the development of a new drive concept such as chain propulsion by friction wheel drives. This paper addresses drive systems for sorter chains. At first classic systems for propulsion by chain wheel, by dragchain and by worm shaft are reviewed. Subsequently properties of state-of-the-art linear inductive motors as well as optimisation options are discussed. Finally the concept of propulsion by fric-tion wheel drives is introduced.