The conveyor belts with cross-shifting devices from MTF Technik offer an extremely flexible solution for automatic container handling. Depending on customer-specific requirements, they can be designed in highly variable lengths, widths, heights, and features. For example, very low designs can be realized to guide products into containers in confined spaces—e.g., in production or packaging machines with low material discharge chutes. Thanks to their extra-low height, these systems can be positioned directly below the discharge chute and thus seamlessly integrated into the machine's footprint.
The core of the technology is the cross-shift mechanism, which selectively discharges the filled containers to the side, while the conveyor belt brings new empty containers to the filling position. Robust conveyor belts are used, which are specially designed for push-off operations and guarantee a long service life. In extreme cases, the cross-shift position can also be equipped with a roller conveyor or a ball transfer table to further reduce abrasion and wear with heavy weights.
Basically, two concepts can be distinguished. Firstly, there are U-shaped buffer solutions with a cross-shifting device. Here, a combination of a conveyor belt for feeding empty containers and a roller conveyor for removing filled containers is typically chosen. This solution is used when filling takes place, for example, in a robot cell and the operator is required to load and unload containers at a point outside the cell.
The second concept provides for a circulation system with two cross-shifting devices, where the containers run "in a circle." This has the advantage of very efficient use of the available space. These systems are often used when falling parts are picked up from the side of a machine.
The compact conveyor belts can be equipped with drum motor drives to achieve minimal overhangs and a particularly space-saving design.
Depending on the application, the conveyor and shifting units are controlled either via a Siemens S7 controller or directly via the on-site machine or robot control system. In combination with comprehensive sensor technology for monitoring the filling and transfer positions, a highly automated system is created that can be precisely tailored to the respective requirements.
As with all automation solutions from MTF Technik, virtually unlimited customizations can be made to accommodate customer-specific requirements.
Pneumatic separation stations, adjustable side guides for different container formats, cross slides with intermediate positions for sequential container filling, vibrators for reducing the cone of material, distributor rockers, level sensors, etc. are just a few options for adapting the system to specific conditions. to adapt.
The conveyor belts with cross-shifting devices combine intelligent technology with robust design and maximum flexibility. They are ideal for applications with high cycle rates, changing container sizes, and limited space – whether in series production, packaging, or automated logistics processes.
