Interroll expands Modular Pallet Conveyor Platform (MPP) with flexible and powerful control solution

Depending on the customer’s requirements, system integrators can use it to implement a wide range of automated applications, from autonomous plug-and-play pallet conveyors without a PLC to complex applications in the Industry 4.0 environment.

The new MultiControl for pallet conveyors is a multi-protocol-capable controller (Profinet, EtherNet/IP and EtherCAT) through which up to four drives (including 400-volt drum motors or RollerDrive as well as corresponding sensors) can be integrated into the fieldbus level and controlled. Interroll’s integrated conveyor logic enables, for example, autonomous and zero-pressure-accumulation pallet conveyors to be implemented without the use of a PLC, which reduces the effort required for planning and commissioning a large number of standard applications in pallet logistics.

 If required, the MultiControl can also be connected to a PLC in order to centrally retrieve the ongoing operating data of the conveyor in real time or to adapt the material flow to specific customer requirements by means of appropriate programming.

“With the consistent expansion of the application areas of the MultiControl, which has become the industry standard for automated conveying systems, our customers benefit from the advantages of our modular platform strategy, which is aligned across solutions and industries,” says Marcus Dörr, head of engineering and development, and global product manager at Interroll. “The implementation of automation requirements in pallet conveying is now even easier and more efficient. As a result, we are improving the competitiveness of our customers—regardless of whether they are dealing with standard applications or challenges in highly complex, networked operating environments.”

The MPP is the technological basis for driven pallet conveyors characterised by a highly flexible, modular design. Depending on the design of the conveyor line and the choice of conveyor modules, pallets weighing up to 1,200 kg can be transported at a maximum speed of 0.5 metres per second. In combination with autonomously operating storage and retrieval machines, transfer carriages and the Pallet Flow flow storage system, this allows highly dynamic and compact pallet warehouses to be set up with a handling speed of 100 pallets/hour per storage and retrieval machine or transfer carriage.

The new MultiControl for pallet conveying is also available with a matching and preconfigured control cabinet, which further reduces the planning and installation effort. It is being launched simultaneously worldwide and will be delivered immediately.