Multi-station variable pitch module
Variable pitch screw drive linear guide guide, with a power source to drive all stationsisometric synchronous transformation-- The one-time conversion of incoming tray spacing into target tray spacing is the core mechanism of multi-station picking and placing, sorting and palletizing processes.
WHAT IS IT
What is a multi-station variable pitch module
On the automatic production line, the station spacing of the incoming tray (tray, box, jig) is often the spacing from the target tray (test seat, packing box, assembly position).Inconsistency. The early plan was to use multiple independent cylinders to move one by one, or use robots to grasp one by one-slow beat, high cost, and large footprint.
Variable pitch moduleUse a set of mechanism to solve this problem: all stations are installed on a variable pitch screw, and when the screw rotates, each station will press the preset pitch.Open or collapse synchronously, one action completes the spacing conversion of all stations.
According to the degree of automation, dividedAutomatic type(servo/stepper/pneumatic drive) Manual type(XD 6810D, adjusted by handwheel, suitable for production lines with infrequent changes). According to the working conditions, there are standard economic type, enhanced type, protective cover type, heavy load type, robot special type and other branches.
- Variable pitch screw-- core transmission parts, pitch accuracy directly determines the consistency of the spacing of each station
- Linear guide rail-bear the load and partial load torque of each station to ensure the straightness of movement
- Station Slider-- Standard installation hole position, which can be directly locked with cylinder, suction tool and standard claw
- Driver unit-- Servo/stepper/pneumatic motor/manual handwheel, according to model configuration
- Cylinder and base-- Semi-hard oxidation treatment, both wear resistance and dimensional stability
- Sensor Interface-- Origin, limit signal feedback (automatic type)
Please refer to the model list below for the specific configuration of each model (including driving mode and whether it is equipped with sensors), or contact the technical department directly for confirmation.
ADVANTAGES
Why use variable pitch module
01
Beat greatly compressed
Complete all station spacing conversion in one action, instead of handling one by one. The more work bits, the more significant the beats saved.
02
a power source
No matter 4 station or 12 station, only one set of drive unit is required. The electrical control is simple, the failure point is few, and the maintenance cost is low.
03
Spacing is always equidistant
The synchronous displacement of each station is guaranteed by the screw pitch machine, there is no cumulative error, and the repetition consistency is better than that of multiple independent cylinders.
04
Class selection according to working conditions
There are 8 series from standard economy type to robot special type, which are selected according to load, protection and precision requirements, and do not pay for excess performance.
| Comparison item | Variable pitch module | Multiple independent cylinders | Robot grabs one by one |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beat | Fast (one finish) | middle | Slow |
| Control Complexity | Low (single point control) | High (multipoint synchronization) | High (trajectory teaching) |
| Initial input | middle | Lower | High |
| Work Number Expansion | Easy (customized as needed) | Difficulty (linear rise in costs) | Easy (but slow beat) |
| Applicable station spacing | Isometric transformation required | Arbitrary Spacing | Arbitrary Spacing |
Objective description: If your working condition isunequal pitch transformation(The variation of the spacing of each station is different), the variable pitch module is not applicable, and an independent servo module or robot scheme is required. It is recommended to confirm whether the spacing between the incoming tray and the target tray is equidistant before selection.
PRINCIPLE
Variable pitch principle and transmission mode
The transmission mode determines the accuracy, beat and cost. Selecting the wrong transmission mode is more fatal than selecting the wrong model.
| Transmission method | Working principle | Accuracy | Beat | Cost | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Variable pitch screw This station is adopted by the whole system. |
Multiple sections of different pitch (or bidirectional thread) are processed on one screw, and each station is displaced synchronously according to the pitch ratio when rotating. | High | Quickly | middle | Compact structure, good synchronization, is the mainstream scheme of isometric transformation |
| cam type | The cam groove drives the displacement of each station along the groove line, and the spacing change law is determined by the groove shape. | middle | Fastest | Low | Fixed spacing is not adjustable, the beat is the fastest, suitable for large quantities of fixed spacing scenes |
| connecting rod type | Multi-link mechanism linkage, each station equidistant expansion | middle | Quickly | Low | The structure is simple, but the cumulative error is obvious when the number of work is large. |
| Servo independent control | Each station with independent servo, arbitrary adjustable spacing | Highest | middle | High | The most flexible, can be changed at will, but the cost and debugging difficulty is the highest. |
Variable pitch module of this stationThe whole system adopts variable pitch screw drive linear guide guide, in the accuracy, beat, cost balance between the three, covering the vast majority of equidistant transformation conditions. If you need cam type (fastest beat) or servo independent control (any adjustable), you can consult non-standard customization.
⚠Must be confirmed before type selection:Variable pitch screw scheme requires each stationisometric synchronous transformation. If the incoming spacing and the target spacingnot an isometric relation(For example, the variation of 4 stations is different), please explain in advance-this kind of working condition requires independent servo or robot scheme, we will tell the truth to avoid rework of selection.
PRODUCTS
Product Line Recommendations
Eight major series categorized by operating conditions, covering the full spectrum of applications from economy‑grade to robotics‑specific solutions.
| General Specification Items | Description | General Specification Items | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guidance mode | Linear guide rail | Surface treatment | semi-hard oxidation |
| Transmission method | Variable pitch screw | Workstation range | Customization on demand |
| Spacing adjustment range | Customization on demand | Repeatability positioning accuracy | Customization on demand |
| Single station load | Customization on demand | Maximum Beat | Customization on demand |
| Drive method | Servo/Stepper/Pneumatic/Manual | Body material | Customization on demand |
For detailed specifications of each series, please refer to the model list below, or contact the technical department to request the datasheet.
MODEL LIST
Model List
The following table lists the models currently available in the Product Center. Please be sure to verify the flagged anomalies at the bottom against the backend data.
| Serial Number | Product Line | Model | Guidance mode | Transmission method | Surface treatment | User Manual | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Enhanced variable pitch module | XD605C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 2 | Protective cover type variable pitch module | XD605C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 3 | Standard Economy Variable Pitch Module XD 809C | XD 809C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 4 | Standard Economy Variable Pitch Module XD 14015EB | XD 809C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 5 | Blade cylinder special pitch module XD5355C | XD 5355C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 6 | Special pitch module for blade cylinder XD 685C | XD 685C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 7 | Special pitch module for blade cylinder XD 8577C | XD 8577C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 8 | Large load variable pitch module XD 9512C | XD 9512C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 9 | Robot special pitch module XD 355C | XD355C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 10 | Manual pitch module XD 6810D | XD 6810D | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 11 | Large spacing to small spacing module XD 5355C | XD 5355C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 12 | Standard Economy Variable Pitch Module XD 605C | XD 605C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 13 | Standard Economy Variable Pitch Module XD 709C | XD 709C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 14 | Large load variable pitch module XD 210 | XD 210 | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 15 | XD-140 Series | XD605C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 16 | XD-85 Series | XD605C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 17 | XD-95 Series | XD605C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 18 | XD-68 Series | XD605C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 19 | XD-210 Series | XD605C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
| 20 | XD-53 Series | XD605C | Linear guide rail | Variable pitch screw | semi-hard oxidation | 3D model | View Details |
Note:
HOW TO SELECT
The Four-Step Selection Method
Please provide the operating condition parameters; we can assist with model confirmation and drawing verification.
-
First, confirm whether it is an “isometric transformation.”
This is the prerequisite for the feasibility of the variable-pitch screw design, and it is also the step most likely to require rework in the later stages.
Are the pitch variations at each station the same? → The variable-pitch screw solution is only applicable if they are.If the incoming‑part spacing is 20mm and the target spacing is 10 mm, with each station reducing the spacing by 10mm to achieve equal spacing, this approach is applicable.
If the travel distances at each workstation differ—i.e., are non-uniform—switching to an independent servo or robotic solution will be necessary; please notify us in advance. -
Number of fixed workstations and spacing range
Define the number of material‑loading stations, the incoming‑material spacing, and the target spacing; based on these parameters, determine the variable‑pitch stroke.
Single pitch adjustment stroke = Feed pitch − Target pitchThe greater the number of workstations, the longer the lead screw and the higher its rigidity requirements.It is recommended to mark the workstation layout and spacing on the drawings and submit them together., This allows us to perform direct cost accounting, eliminating the need for repeated confirmations.
-
Calculate the load and select the series based on the operating conditions.
Unit weight × number of workstations + the self-weight of the suction cup/gripper, then select the series based on operating conditions:
- Normal load, budget-sensitive → Standard Economy Class（XD 809C / XD 605C）
- Large load or unbalanced load → Enhanced（XD605C）
- Dust and chip environment → Shield type（XD605C）
- For use with the accompanying blade cylinder → For blade cylinders only(XD 5355C / 685C / 8577C, mounting interface pre-installed)
- Heavy workpiece → High-load type（XD 9512C）
- Mounted at the robot’s end → For robots only(XD355C, lightweight design)
- Infrequent model changes → Manual type(XD 6810D, manual wheel adjustment)
-
Confirm the timing and drive method.
The line cycle time determines the time available for completing the variable-pitch motion, which in turn dictates the selection of the drive unit.
At the same time, confirm the following: whether the electrical control interface is compatible with the existing PLC, whether origin/limit signal feedback is required, installation space dimensions, and air source cleanliness.
APPLICATIONS
Industry Applications
The indexing module is suitable for all applications requiring “multi-station equidistant indexing.” The following are the industry sectors currently covered by your site.
Semiconductor Industry
Chip tray transfer, lead frame loading, and multi-station pick-and-place operations for test sockets. High requirements for the consistency of spacing repetition.
Industrial automation
Loading and unloading on general assembly lines, synchronous transfer of multiple workpieces, and adjustment of spacing between assembly stations.
Electronic industry
3C component sorting, connector insertion/extraction testing, and multi-station inspection and handling of PCB boards.
Medical industry
Reagent kit sorting and transfer, medical consumable assembly, and multi-channel synchronous processing of test samples.
Packaging Industry
Product in-box palletizing, synchronous filling of multi-row packaging, labeling, and coding positioning.
Lithium battery industry
Cell sorting, module stacking and positioning, and multi-station material collection after electrode slitting.
Mechanical manufacturing
Multi-station loading and unloading of components, precision assembly, and synchronous transfer on the inspection line.
scientific research experiment
Experimental setup for multi-channel synchronous displacement measurement, non-standard custom solutions for research institutions, and a prototype validation platform.
For each industry, it is recommended to include one real-world application image along with a brief case description. Don't write about directions you haven't tried.--It was written in, but there were no case studies; when the client followed up, it ended up being a disadvantage.
FAQ
FAQ
Are the zoom module and the zoom slide table the same thing?
Both operate on the same principle, achieving equidistant indexing across multiple stations; the difference lies in their level of integration.Variable pitch slidePrimarily provides the variable-pitch mechanism itself, with drive and control implemented on the customer’s side.Variable pitch moduleTypically, they feature higher integration, incorporating driver units and sensor interfaces, and are ready for immediate use upon delivery. This website categorizes variable‑pitch modules under the broader category of “variable‑pitch slides.” For specific distinctions, please provide your operating conditions, and our technical department will confirm.
Can a non-uniform transformation be performed?
Variable pitch screw scheme requires each stationisometric synchronous transformation, it is not possible to directly achieve non-uniform spacing. If your application requires different stroke lengths at each station, consider: ① a modular solution with independent servo control; ② robotic pick-and-place. We can also conduct a joint assessment of these two.However, we will truthfully disclose any cost differences.It is not recommended to forcibly use a variable-pitch screw solution as a workaround.
Is it easy to change the mold? Can the spacing be adjusted?
The pitch variation of a variable-pitch screw is determined by its lead.A single screw corresponds to a fixed amount of pitch variation.If the production line requires frequent switching between different pitches, we recommend: ① Preparing multiple sets of screw assemblies for quick replacement; ② Using the manual model (XD 6810D) when changeovers are infrequent; ③ Considering a servo‑independent control solution for applications with frequent changeovers. Please specify the frequency of model changes, and we will provide our recommendations.
Can it be used with a blade cylinder?
Sure, and this is a very common combination:The pitch-adjustment module is responsible for changing the station spacing, while the blade cylinder handles the pick-and-place/pushing actions at each station.. We provideSpecial pitch module for blade cylinder(XD 5355C, XD 685C, XD 8577C) are pre-equipped with mounting interfaces for blade cylinders, allowing direct installation and eliminating the need to design and fabricate adapter plates.
How do you choose between manual and automatic?
Manual type (XD 6810D)The spacing is adjusted via a handwheel, offering low cost and eliminating the need for electrical control, making it suitable for applications with infrequent changeovers or as a debugging/standby station on equipment.
Automatic typeDriven by servo, stepper, or pneumatic actuators, it can be integrated with a PLC to enable automatic tool change and cycle-time control, making it suitable for high-volume production lines. If the production line changes setups more than twice per day, we recommend selecting the automatic model.
Automatic typeDriven by servo, stepper, or pneumatic actuators, it can be integrated with a PLC to enable automatic tool change and cycle-time control, making it suitable for high-volume production lines. If the production line changes setups more than twice per day, we recommend selecting the automatic model.
Do you support non-standard customization? What information do I need to provide?
Support. Common customization options include: number of workstations, spacing adjustment range, load capacity, drive type, mounting interface, and protection rating, among others.
Please provide.The spacing between the incoming material tray and the target tray, the number of workstations, the weight of each part, the takt time requirement, and the available installation space—ideally, please provide drawings so we can perform a direct calculation and provide a solution along with a delivery timeline.
Need help with selection?
Please provide the operating condition parameters, and we will assist you with model confirmation and drawing verification.
Download the Selection Guide (PDF) Submit operating condition parameters Phone consultation: 13686286625