Things To Consider When Designing Automated Conveyor Systems

Conveyor systems are among the oldest technologies on the planet. Arguably, the first one was designed when ancient human ancestors lined up logs and used them to roll something across the ground – a crude, but efficient strategy. Today's varieties are infinitely more complex. Automated conveyor systems can move products with little human guidance. Combined with other automation elements, they can create unmanned production chains that create items with almost no human interaction. They've also become scaled down and used to make life easier in small ways, such as store checkout lines and people movers at airports. Yet despite how common they are, they can still be a challenge to design. If you're considering one for your own business, especially a custom solution, think about these questions before you begin to create the project.

What's The Scale?

The first question to consider is just how big it needs to be. The most obvious constraint is simple physical size. How big can it be, while still fitting in the space allowed? If you're creating a full distribution solution, you'll need to fit it inside your existing warehouse space, or inside a new space if you're moving. On the other hand, a set of custom grocery store belts will have different limitations. Know your exact dimensions as early in the design process as possible. When you start talking specifics about your conveyor belt systems, you want to talk in numbers.

What's The Use Level?

How durable do the automated conveyor systems really need to be?
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Although most good companies will never create a solution that isn't durable or is likely to develop problems over time, there are things which can be done to create a more self-sufficient system. If you're expecting extreme use either through high volume or particularly heavy loads, then your solution will need to be designed accordingly.

Will Humans Be Using It?

Something designed to work regularly with people has different requirements from something which will rarely be experienced by a human. If it's something to be used in a grocery store or other environment where human contact will be nearly constant, there are still more concerns that need to be addressed. The level of human contact will determine what safety precautions need to be taken, and what elements need to be emphasized to sufficiently address your design goals.

What's The Budget?

Although budget is a very basic and very important factor, it's often forgotten in the rush of other things that need to be addressed. Lay out your budget early, and stick to it. Don't go over it unless absolutely necessary, but don't be so frugal that you're afraid to spend it on things that matter. Run the numbers as much as you need to feel comfortable with your plan for the project.

Thinking about these questions ahead of time will make you much better prepared for designing conveyor systems. Whether you make plans yourself or sit down with a professional company immediately, knowing the answers to these questions will ensure that you can quickly and efficiently create the best automated conveyor systems, minimizing the likelihood that you'll miss something important.