Conveyor controller with roller detection system

Abstract

A roller detection system has been developed in which a controller card is configured to automatically detect the type of motorized drive roller being used in the conveyor system. With this automatic detection capability, the controller card is able to automatically control the motorized drive roller without the need for manual reprogramming or reconfiguration. For instance, the controller card can detect whether the motorized drive roller is controlled through an analog or digital signal as well as the voltage required to control or power the motorized drive roller, and based on this roller type detection, the controller card is automatically configured to control the motorized drive roller. The system is further adapted to facilitate a sensor-less or photoeye-less zero pressure (ZP) conveyor system. The controller card is configured to support a secondary power source that allows the motorized drive roller settings during e-stop and other power loss conditions.