Reducing Equipment Footprint with the eXtended Transport System
Adaptive automation is revolutionizing machine design by offering pre-packaged automation lines that can be easily tailored to specific production environments. As recently reported by Control Design, Beckhoff Automation’s eXtended Transport System (XTS) exemplifies this approach, integrating programmable logic control with mechatronic conveyance for compact, modular and highly adaptable motion solutions.
By enabling linear and rotary movement, the XTS supports rapid changeovers, making it ideal for industries requiring flexibility, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals and packaging.
The system’s ability to decouple motion allows for independent or synchronized movement of products, optimizing throughput while minimizing downtime for format changes. Key features of the XTS include a PC-based controller, modular motor units, guide rails and EtherCAT networking, all designed to streamline integration and scalability. Learn more in the full Control Design article.
