7 System sizes
SIGMA Transfersystem
Assembly, production or logistics - the SIGMA transfer system always offers the optimum solution for your application.
From the idea to the transfer system
When investing in transfer systems, an optimal price/performance ratio is the key to success.
The ever shorter product lifecycles require a modular and flexible design of systems that guarantee a high degree of reusability. The simple design of Sigma transfer systems allows them to be used in a wide range of applications. The system was primarily developed for linking manual, semi-automated and fully automated processes. Thanks to its open structure, the system can be easily and flexibly adapted to changing production figures and variants.
The Sigma transfer system can be ordered in individual modules, as complete assembly or as a transfer system with wiring, software and order management.
Advantages:
Applications
Module overview
All modules at a glance
The wide range of modules available for the Sigma transfer system guarantees maximum flexibility when changes are made to premises, production figures, or production processes. Long, costly setup and changeover times and the associated forced downtime are avoided. The transfer system is delivered either fully assembled or, if requested by the customer, preassembled in modules for self-assembly.
Drive modules
90° / 180° drives drive the standard chain continuously (up to 60 m in length). One drive is required per cycle.
Linear modules
For connecting and guiding the chain between different modules.
Chain tensioners
Ensure the necessary chain tension. Used from a chain length of approx. 20 m or more or from a total of more than 720° direction changes. Pneumatically adjusted.
Idler fixed
45° / 90° / 180° fixed deflections to change direction.
Idler rolling
45° / 90° / 180° rolling deflections to change direction. Reduced resistance between transport chain and deflection by rollers.
Idler rotary
90° / 180° rotating deflections to change direction. Significantly reduced resistance between transport chain and deflection due to rotating deflection wheels.
Intersection modules 1
Enable the workpiece carrier to be diverted to a parallel secondary section in the smallest of spaces and with minimum control effort.
Intersection modules 2
Enable the connection between a main and secondary circuit in the smallest of spaces and with minmium control effort.
Intersection modules 3
Enable two circuits to be connected. The drives of the standard chain per circuit are already integrated in the module and therefore the drive modules are not required for both circuits.
Intersection modules 4
Enable the connection between a main and secondary circuit with simultaneous running in and out of the secondary circuit through the two short belt sections.
Intersection modules 5
Enable the connection between two circuits with a buffer section that is variable in length.
Cross modules
Guide workpiece carriers from one circuit to another. For example, to bypass cells, workstations or manual workstations.
Turntable modules
For connecting two circuits with opposite running direction.
Linear conveyor modules
Autonomous secondary lines with their own drive. These are connected to the circuit via cross travel modules.
Cross transfer modules
Guide workpiece carriers to a second parallel circuit or a parallel belt.
Circuit transfer modules
Connect two circuits without any control effort and small space requirement, thus two circuits can also be connected with different chain speeds.
Soft motion conveyor
Enable a freely programmable speed, gentle vibration-free stopping and acceleration of the workpiece carriers, reduction of cycle times, reversibility.
Support modules
Serve to support the longitudinal section modules, available in all system widths. Also available as an expandable version for two sections, as shown.
Offset modules
Extend the possibilities and flexibility in layout and concept design even further. Can be adapted to project and customer specifications.
Chain deflection modules
Enable access or machining of workpieces from below.
External part remover
Serves to remove foreign bodies, dirt and dust on, next to and below the transfer chain. Available in two versions or according to customer requirements.
Manual workstations
Serve as an assembly surface or as a storage compartment for tools and assembly materials. Ergonomic, smart and easily integrated into the transfer system.
Chain tensioner linear
Ensure the necessary chain tension, does not require 2×90° or 180° deflection as the chain tension is ensured lengthwise. Pneumatically adjusted.
Pallets
Workpiece carriers transport the workpiece on the transfer system.
Indexing modules
Centring and positioning of stopped workpiece carriers in a defined position. (+/- 0.06 mm)
Indexing modules
elevated
Centring and positioning of stopped workpiece carriers in an elevated defined position. (+/- 0.06 mm)
Indexing modules
precision
Centring and positioning of stopped workpiece carriers in a defined, precise position. (+/- 0.02 mm)
Stop modules
Used for controlled stopping (fixed) and release of workpiece carriers.
Stop modules
damped
Used for controlled stopping (damped) and release of workpiece carriers.
Overtaking modules
Enable centring and positioning of the stopped workpiece carriers (+/- 0.04 mm), while other workpiece carriers can continue to travel simultaneously. This advantage saves outfeeds.
System structure
The transfer system with only one chain profile and two side profiles impresses with its simple and clear system structure.
The drive mechanism
The transfer chain is guided through a chain wheel within a 90° or 180° deflection module. This is driven by a spur gear motor. Power is transmitted via the 10 mm steel pins in the chain links. A mechanical, adjustable slip clutch serves as overload protection and is specially adjusted for each drive system. The desired chain speed is achieved with appropriate gear ratios. The speed can be continuously adjusted within a range of ± 20% by means of a frequency converter.
The transport mechanism
A robust plastic chain serves as a means of transport for the workpiece carriers, which are fed to the workplaces and stations according to the control sequence. The workpiece carriers are transported by friction between the sliding shoe and the chain. In the manual workstations or in front of the automatic stations, the workpiece carrier can be stopped by a stop module. Meanwhile, the chain transports the remaining workpiece carriers in the circuit. In the stations, the workpiece carrier is lifted from the chain by a centring module and precisely positioned.
System sizes
All sizes at a glance
up to 8kg
Weight support via chain
Lightweight workpiece carriers are used for workpiece weights up to 8 kg:
- ST-600 – system width 90 mm
- ST-700 – system width 160 mm
- ST-710 – system width 210 mm
- ST-715 – system width 260 mm
In these cases, the weight of the workpiece, workpiece holder, and workpiece carrier is carried directly by the chain.
up to 150kg
Weight absorption via side profiles
Heavy workpiece carriers are used for workpieces weighing 8 kg or more:
- ST-815 – system width 260 mm
- ST-820 – system width 360 mm
- ST-840 – system width 460 mm
The load of the workpiece, the workpiece holder, and the workpiece carrier is supported by swivel casters resting on the side profiles; only a spring load of approx. 2 x 40 N.
Workpiece carrier sizes
Customized workpiece carriers in various sizes! Our high-quality carriers offer maximum flexibility for your requirements. Whether you are processing small components or large workpieces, we manufacture carriers according to your specifications. They are available in sizes ranging from 80 x 80 mm to 500 x 2000 mm, with a customized drilling pattern for your product. Precise, robust, and adaptable — our workpiece carriers support efficient work processes. Contact us for customized solutions and optimize your manufacturing processes. Quality that meets your requirements!
Technical data
- Breaking load of chain 20 000 N
- Ambient temperature -20°C to +90°C
- Maximum chain length per drive 60 m
- Chain speed 70 / 169 / 253 mm/s or customer-specific
- Motor power 180 / 370 / 550 / 750 W
- Nominal voltage 3 x 400 V 50 Hz
- Protection class IP 54
- System widths 90 mm to 460 mm
- Workpiece carrier sizes 80 x 80 mm to 450 x 1,700 mm
- Workpiece weights up to max. 150 kg per workpiece carrier
- Centering accuracy ± 0.06 mm and ± 0.02 mm
- ESD-compatible on request
Contact
For Inquiries:
Rodotec AG
Mühlebachstrasse 5
CH-6370 Stans
+41 41 618 33 44
info@rodotec.ch
Contact us. We will be happy to advise you.
