With centralised cabling, the control system, frequency converter and power distribution are mainly located in the control cabinet or directly on the conveyor system. Motors, sensors and actuators are supplied from there.

Typical features of centralised architectures

• Centralised energy supply
• Clear system structure
• Proven architecture for standardised systems

Limits for modular conveyor systems

With increasing system complexity:

• Long cable runs
• High installation costs
• Limited flexibility for enlargers

Centralised cabling remains sensible for clearly structured, less dynamic system concepts.

With the line topology, energy and communication are passed from module to module. Each conveyor segment is part of a continuous structure, without a separate return to a central control cabinet.  This architecture reduces the number of parallel wiring harnesses and minimises the interfaces between the energy and control levels. The line topology is particularly economical for modular conveyor systems with high change dynamics.

• Reduced installation complexity: The sequential connection of the modules eliminates the need for complex star cabling and centralised collection points.
• Faster commissioning: Pre-assembled connections enable a clear structure and shorten installation times.
• High scalability: New conveyor modules can be integrated into existing lines without having to fundamentally adapt the overall architecture.
• Optimised use of materials and space: Fewer cable bundles and reduced cable routes simplify system planning.

The ring topology enables segmented energy and signal distribution along the conveyor line. Modules are connected via defined transfer points, creating a clean separation of individual conveyor sections.  In contrast to the pure linear structure, the ring architecture allows a clearer segmentation of energy paths and maintenance zones. The ring topology is particularly suitable for systems with high maintenance frequency and clearly demarcated conveying zones.

Benefits

• Targeted maintenance of individual segments: Sections can be inspected or maintained in isolation without affecting the entire conveyor line.
• Reduced failure propagation: Failures in one module do not have an immediate effect on the entire structure.
• Improved system transparency: Clear transfer points facilitate troubleshooting and diagnostics.
• Structured energy distribution: The ring structure supports a clean load distribution along the system.

Motorised drive rollers (MDR) integrate the electric drive directly into the conveyor roller. This eliminates the need for centralised drive trains, gearboxes or mechanical couplings.  Each conveying zone is electrically controlled separately. This reduces mechanical complexity and increases control precision.

• Zone-by-zone energy efficiency: Only active conveyor segments are operated - this reduces energy consumption and thermal load.
• Reduced mechanical wear parts: Fewer external drive components mean less maintenance.
• High modularity: Conveyor segments can be integrated or replaced independently.
• Improved EMC conditions: Short motor cables and decentralised drivers reduce electromagnetic interference.

Modern conveyor systems are highly networked. Sensors, drives, safety components and control systems communicate continuously via industrial networks.  An unstable data infrastructure leads directly to downtime or process interruptions. A well thought-out industrial network infrastructure increases system availability, improves diagnostic options and supports predictive maintenance concepts.

• High interference immunity (EMC): Motors, frequency converters and power cables generate electromagnetic interference fields. Data cables must be shielded accordingly.
• Mechanical load capacity: Movement, vibration and industrial ambient conditions require robust cable constructions.
• Future-proof data rates: Modular systems must transmit increasing data volumes reliably.
• Standard compatibility: Support for industrial Ethernet and fieldbus protocols such as PROFINET.