Indexing

Indexing is a type of application where a motor moves a load for a pre-defined distance, decelerates to rest, pauses for some defined interval, and repeats this motion cycle. Common applications for indexing are conveyors, rotary tables, and feed-to-length rolls. Common industries for indexing are packaging, food handling, inspection lines, and assembly lines. These all can take discrete parts and index them progressively from one point to the next where an incremental processing step occurs. The distance moved (also referred to as a step) may be set as a fixed or variable parameter as well as the dwell time between steps. In some systems, these may be linked to external events and interlocks as well. Indexing is often associated with motion control applications, and many apply stepper and servo positioning systems as solutions. Prior to electrical controls with the responses needed for rapid starting and stopping, mechanical solutions were employed