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As manufacturers continue to automate material handling, integrating Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) with conveyor systems has become a critical component of flexible, high-throughput manufacturing and distribution operations.
Two of the most effective solutions for AMR interaction are split-roller chain driven live roller (CDLR) conveyors and rack-supported two-strand drag chain conveyors. Each provides a distinct method for transferring pallets safely and accurately while maximizing floor space and automation efficiency.
Alba Split Roller CDLR Conveyor for AMR Pick-Up and Drop-Off |
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A split-roller CDLR conveyor is specifically designed to create an unobstructed opening beneath the conveyor rollers, allowing an AMR to access a pallet from below while maintaining the strength and reliability of a powered roller conveyor.
Unlike a conventional CDLR conveyor that uses full-width rollers, the split-roller design divides each roller into two sections separated by a center opening. This opening provides the clearance required for the AMR’s lifting mechanism, allowing the robot to position itself directly beneath the pallet.
How the System Works |
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A pallet arrives at the AMR interface on the powered CDLR conveyor. |
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Sensors verify the pallet’s position and stop the load at the precise transfer location. |
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The AMR navigates beneath the conveyor opening. |
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The AMR’s lift platform rises through the split-roller opening to engage the pallet. |
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Once the pallet is elevated slightly above the conveyor rollers, the AMR transports it to its destination. |
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For delivery, the process is reversed, allowing the AMR to accurately place the pallet onto the powered conveyor. |
Advantages |
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Eliminates manual pallet transfers |
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Provides precise pallet positioning |
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Provides high-capacity handling for heavy pallet loads |
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Is fully compatible with warehouse management control software |
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Is ideal for freezer, food-processing, manufacturing, and distribution facilities |
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Maintains continuous powered conveyor flow while enabling robotic interaction |
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Reduces the number of transfer mechanisms required, resulting in a simpler, more reliable interface between stationary conveyor systems and mobile robotics |
Alba Rack-Supported Two-Strand Drag Chain Conveyor with AMR Shuttle Access |
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For applications requiring pallet accumulation or storage, a rack-supported two-strand drag chain conveyor provides an innovative solution by allowing an AMR shuttle vehicle to travel directly beneath the pallet path.
Instead of roller beds, the conveyor utilizes two parallel strands of heavy-duty drag chain mounted within structural rack supports. The chains support and transport pallets while maintaining an unobstructed center corridor between them.
This center opening creates a dedicated travel lane for an AMR shuttle equipped with guide wheels or rail followers.
Operating Principle |
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Pallets are conveyed on two powered drag chains. |
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The structural rack supports elevate the conveyor, creating clearance beneath it. |
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An AMR shuttle travels on guide tracks located between the chain strands. |
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At designated transfer stations, the AMR raises a lifting platform through the center opening. |
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The pallet is lifted clear of the chains. |
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The AMR transports the pallet to another conveyor, storage lane, pallet storage position within the rack, AS/RS system, or production cell. |
Because the AMR operates below the conveyor chains within a rack-supported system, its travel path remains protected from normal forklift and pedestrian traffic while maximizing usable floor space.
Benefits |
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Allows robotic transport without requiring additional floor aisles |
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Supports very heavy pallet loads |
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Provides an excellent solution for high-density warehouse automation |
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Is compatible with automated storage systems |
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Uses modular rack-supported construction to simplify installation and expansion |
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Reduces conveyor congestion by separating mobile robot traffic from conveyor flow |
Creating a Flexible Automated Material Handling System |
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When combined, Alba split-roller CDLR conveyors and Alba rack-supported two-strand drag chain conveyors create a highly flexible pallet-handling network. Powered conveyors efficiently transport loads over long distances, while AMRs provide intelligent point-to-point delivery without requiring fixed paths or extensive conveyor routing.
This hybrid approach enables facilities to: |
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Increase throughput while reducing manual handling |
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Improve scalability as production demands change |
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Optimize floor space by minimizing dedicated transfer equipment |
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Enhance worker safety through reduced forklift traffic |
As automation continues to evolve, these conveyor interfaces provide a practical and efficient bridge between traditional conveyor systems and next-generation autonomous mobile robots, delivering greater flexibility, reliability, and operational efficiency across manufacturing, cold-storage, and distribution environments.
To see how Alba Manufacturing can help with your next AMR project, visit our website at www.albamfg.com.or call us at 866.252.2634.
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