Linear transport systems enable shuttles carrying products to move freely, similar to the movements of robots. In contrast with conventional conveyor lines, which often require multiple machines and human intervention, a single machine can perform various processes, skip unused steps, and transport products safely and at a controlled pace to match the operator’s pace. Although required functions vary from industry to industry, linear transport systems offer intelligent control and thus outperform traditional conveyor systems in complex production tasks, mixed-product manufacturing, and equipment downsizing.
Wada et al. (Sat,) studied this question.