Since R2026x FD01 release, Factory Flow Simulation allows to configure a conveyor as bidirectional based on specified conditions.

Value :

Bidirectional conveyor can be used for moving parts in two directions to recirculate them for process completion, optimize facility footprint, and streamline workflows by eliminating multiple separate systems. A conveyor can be set as Bi-Directional and the directional change can be done based on time or the number parts flowed on conveyor

Highlight :

Unidirectional:

The parts on the conveyor move in a single direction by default

Bidirectional:

The flow of parts on the conveyor can switch direction automatically based on the specified conditions

In “Edit Direction mode” user can edit the following parameters

Direction Change Mode - Count Based: 

The direction of the conveyor switches based on the number of parts transferred. This attribute is useful in scenarios where the flow of parts needs to be managed dynamically to prevent overloading or underutilization of the conveyor system

• Count in Forward direction: Determines the number of products to flow in forward direction before switching

• Count in Reverse direction: Determines the number of products to flow in reverse direction before switching

   

Direction Change Mode - Time Based: 

The direction of the conveyor switches based on predefined time intervals. This attribute is useful for scheduling and optimizing the conveyor's operation over time, ensuring that parts are transported efficiently

• Duration in Forward direction: Determines the duration for which the flow is in forward direction
• Duration in Reverse direction: Determines the duration for which the flow is in reverse direction

Simulation behavior:

A Bidirectional conveyor simulated with Direction Change mode as “Count Based” and the Count for Forward direction as 10 and Count for Reverse direction as 5.

The first 10 parts flow in the forward direction

The next 5 parts flow in the reverse direction