Producing efficiently and in time: New linear transfer system from WEISS

LS Link is the newest member of the WEISS linear transfer systems. It is based on link conveyor technology and expands the existing portfolio. LS Link is designed to transport workpieces in automated assembly and packaging lines. Thanks to its drive concept, it is winning over users wherever the application demands precision and short transport times. The reduced complexity of the system and high reliability ensure high productivity and economic efficiency.

Download Press release

At approximately 60 cycles per minute and a movement time of under 0.2 seconds at feeds up to 200 mm, LS Link is fast and efficient. At the same time, its positioning accuracy is +/- 50 μm due to its planetary gear. In combination with the servo motor, the fast transfer system is extremely versatile since any position and any feed can be approached. This increases its adaptability to the higher-level assembly line and to the customer application. LS Link will be available fall 2023.

Robust and reliable
The precision drive concept consists of a servo motor, backlash-free precision planetary gears and a well-conceived guide concept. Combining the drive system and transport chain results in an overall system with extremely high precision, while the design for vibration damping provides stability. It absorbs high forces and guarantees a running behavior that is extremely smooth. Due to the solidity of the chain links and connecting bolts, the workpiece carriers are positioned exactly in relation to each other and in relation to processing or machining stations. The guide concept allows workpiece carriers to be loaded with up to 50 kg. The absorption of high process forces up to 1000 N is also guaranteed.

This means the system is ideal for press-fit operations and screw fastening tasks. The guide concept is prestressed and free of play in all directions (x, y, and z). Upon request, the transport chain can be easily dismantled into its individual parts, which makes assembly easier. Moreover, the chain can be easily lengthened if necessary. Thanks to the guide concept, the processing stations can be arranged in the straight areas of LS Link or arranged in the redirection modules. Since users can choose between four chain link lengths at a width of 70 mm, they have the freedom to design almost any kind of assembly or transport process. The variable installation positions also support this. The link conveyor can be installed vertically as well as horizontally. As a result, the workpiece transport can be adapted perfectly to the production process and the space available in the installation area.

Easy to integrate
The high level of structural versatility provided by its various chain link lengths is exactly why LS Link can be easily integrated into assembly lines. This is supported by a suitably configured PLC communication module that inserts into the higher-level machine controller. At the same time, the preconfigured software makes it easier to commission the system. In the future, assets for digital engineering will be available. LS Link is available as a pure link conveyor, with or without a drive system and, upon request, with a customized base frame. The linear transfer system is designed for 24/7 continuous operation and, depending on the application area, is completely maintenance-free. As a result, while the system is being planned, little attention has to be paid to the accessibility of the new link conveyor system from WEISS.