Linear feeder
A driven inline track that conveys, buffers, or in suitable cases further orients components before automation.
Linear feeder glossary
Linear feeder and parts feeding terms, clearly explained.
Use consistent language when specifying, comparing and accepting an industrial component feeding system.
Search answerClear terms create clearer acceptance
Direct answer
A / 01Why use a linear feeder glossary?
Feeding projects cross mechanical design, controls, production and purchasing. The same word can otherwise mean different things to each team.
These definitions focus on measurable results at the component hand-off. Project-specific drawings and specifications remain the controlling documents.
Define the datum, accepted output and system boundary before debating component names.
What to consider
Core parts feeding definitions.
Vibratory track
A component-contact track moved by a vibratory drive so parts advance through repeated controlled motion.
Accepted rate
Usable, correctly presented components delivered per unit time at the defined hand-off.
Buffer
A controlled quantity of correctly presented parts stored between upstream supply and downstream demand.
Escapement
A device that separates and releases one component, or a defined group, at a controlled position.
Datum
The component feature or reference used to establish its required position and orientation.
Decision checklist
More terms used in specifications and trials.
01Amplitude
A measure associated with vibration movement; controller setting and actual mechanical movement are not automatically the same.
02Frequency
The number of vibration cycles per unit time; suitable operation depends on the matched drive, tooling and controller.
03Queue pressure
Force transmitted through accumulated parts, which can affect overlap, marking, stability and release.
04Track-full sensor
A sensor used to indicate that the useful queue has reached a defined occupancy state.
05Orientation yield
The proportion of supplied parts that reach the accepted orientation under defined test conditions.
06FAT
Factory acceptance test: an agreed pre-delivery test of scope, parts, duration, results and permitted interventions.
Practical rule
Use measurable language.
Accepted part + defined datum + defined hand-off + defined test period
This is more useful than ambiguous terms such as “fast”, “continuous”, “jam-free” or “automatic” without conditions.
Questions answered
Parts feeding terminology FAQs.
These answers support early planning. Final suitability and performance are confirmed against representative components and the agreed machine interface.
01What does “parts per minute” mean?+
It should mean accepted components delivered at the defined hand-off over a stated period, not transient or unloaded movement.
02What is a feeder hand-off?+
The location and condition where responsibility passes to the next mechanism, such as an escapement nest, robot pick point or assembly tool.
03What is back pressure in a feeder track?+
It is pressure transmitted through queued parts. Too much can cause overlap, marking, instability or release problems.
04What does “application-specific” mean?+
It means suitability and performance depend on the actual component, process, environment, interface and agreed acceptance method.
Application-led engineering
Need reliable parts at the hand-off?
Share representative components and the production requirement. The project team will help define a suitable route.
Request an application review