CIM Conveyor
The CIM system is formed around a closed loop, continuously moving, conveyor that moves pallets carrying materials and parts to the various CIM stations. The conveyor frame is constructed of extruded, black anodized aluminum, and its moving belt is a double flexible-chain rail. To maximize efficiency of part conveyance in the CIM system, pallets are not removed from the conveyor. Instead, the pallets carry part templates (holders) that are loaded and unloaded at each station by robots and manipulators. The pallets are thus free to transport parts and materials to and from any CIM station. Magnetic codes embedded on the underside of the pallets enable tracking. Conveyor stops alongside each CIM workstation include magnetic sensors for pallet detection and pneumatic pistons for halting and releasing the pallets. A PLC control unit monitors and manages the flow of pallets on the CIM conveyor.