Rotary indexing dials are ideal for automated assembly of small products with a few parts. However, if the product has more than eight components, a rotary indexing dial can become unwieldy. There’s simply not enough real estate around the dial for all the stations.
Fortunately, assemblers can get the speed, precision and durability of a rotary dial in linear form: a precision-link indexing conveyor. The conveyor consists of precision-machined plates, or pallets, linked together in a chain like tank treads. The chain rides in tracks between two large sprockets. Roller bearings enable the plates to move smoothly along the tracks and to pivot as they move around the sprockets. Part fixtures are mounted directly to the plates.