Automatic Speed Control

Dematic has introduced Automatic Speed Control, a new control solution that automatically adjusts the speed of the entire sortation system from merge through the sorter take-away conveyors to accommodate actual throughput volume. By automatically adjusting the sorter speed, the control solution reduces energy use, wear on equipment, sound levels, and maintenance requirements. Automatic Speed Control extends the life of the sorter and conveyors and improves package control, while reducing the cost to operate.

The sorter automatically adjusts to the throughput demand as it changes throughout the day. If there is a surge or decline in flow, the sorter automatically speeds up or slows down to efficiently accommodate the variable rate. With Automatic Speed Control, the sorter does not run continuously at full speed throughout each shift of operation since actual demand vacillates in most warehouse operation. This is how the energy savings is accomplished while allowing less stress on the conveyors and sorter. For a typical system, the Automatic Speed Control will vary the speed from 250 feet per minute up to 540 feet per minute depending on the rate of carton flow.

There are multiple applications for Automatic Speed Control in most operations. In a typical configuration, electronic sensors on the upstream conveyor network detect inbound volume. For a shipping application, electronic sensing monitors downstream availability. If the shipping operation is waiting for more truck trailers or is temporarily under staffed, the sorter can slow down to accommodate that lack of availability. In this example, the Automatic Speed Control functionality allows the system to refrain from sorting high volumes of throughput to shipping when only a moderate flow can be accepted.

Company: Dematic Corp.

Company URL: www.dematic.us