FASmotion - A success story

As part of a joint systems project Final Assembly Systems (FAS) and SEW developed this non-contact power and data transfer technology that began its successful role in vehicle final assembly more than five years ago.

FASmotion is a mechatronic solution that brings together both mechanical conveyor components and the electronic components needed for power and data transfer, drive technology and control and automization. As the FASmotion system eliminates wear and tear it reduces inspection and maintenance costs dramatically and brings the immediate benefit of minimizing downtime. Modules are pre-tested so installation and commissioning times are shorter and production ramp-ups faster.

At the same time FASmotion opens up wider possibilities for all moving systems involved in material handling - such as electric monorails, skillets or automatic guided vehicle systems – making them suitable for completely new applications. The FASmatic® automatic guided vehicle, for example, is induction driven by FASmotion and is designed to offer permanent and trouble-free three shift operation, as it requires no batteries at all thus eliminating the need to take battery charging or replacement times into consideration.

It is not only power but also data that is transferred on a non contact basis to the mobile systems. Stationary control tasks are 'delegated' to controls on the mobile transport units. This increases flexibility and dynamism in material flow. The electronic components of FASmotion are of mature and well-proven design – plug-in, flat and compact modules. With data transfer speeds of up to 54 MBit/sec FAS has the highest performance non-contact system on the market.