Operation
Theory of Operation
QuickStick HT User Manual
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Rockwell Automation Publication MMI-UM007F-EN-P - September 2020
The QSHT transport system also provides high reliability because it does not require frequent
replacement of power transmission parts.
A summary of QuickStick HT transport system benefits includes:
•
Less maintenance than conventional belt conveyors.
•
No moving parts within the motor modules.
•
Passive vehicles that do not require batteries, wires, or power.
•
Bidirectional motion.
•
Variable guideway system layout including curves and horizontal or vertical guide-
ways.
•
Anti-collision feature.
•
Automated move profiles.
•
Independent vehicle motion.
Motion Control
The QuickStick HT transport system provides an integrated transport system for material
movement along one axis. Motors are linked together in paths that define the individual
motion routes. The host controller can then direct the motion and position of the vehicles any-
where along the length of the path. Vehicles can also be moved from one path to another as
long as there is a connection between the paths (either direct or through one or more other
paths) through a node (or multiple nodes).
The design and operation of the QuickStick HT transport system uses a minimum of moving
parts to minimize maintenance requirements. Position sensors in all motors make sure that
there is accurate tracking and positioning of all vehicles in the transport system.
Motor Topology
Each QuickStick HT motor is constructed as a series of blocks (see
and
). Each block is a discrete motor primary section within the motor consisting of
multiple coils that is energized as required. Varying the magnetic force within a block and its
neighbors causes the vehicle to move in the desired direction and provides precise positioning
of the vehicles.
The control software makes sure that the minimum distance between vehicles at the extreme
ends of adjacent motor blocks is 7.5 mm [0.3 in] when not moving. However, this dimension
is variable depending upon the vehicle edge location relative to the block boundary. This fea-
ture allows having a magnet array (vehicle) right-justified in the first block of a QuickStick
HT motor with a second magnet array (vehicle) left justified in the second block of the Quick-
Stick HT motor. The anti-collision feature in the QuickStick HT motor software keeps the two
vehicles from occupying the same motor block.