The graphic shows a 3D motion model of a chain assembly ***
A special transition cam smoothly transfers the chain rollers from the straight section of the chain path (between the sprockets) to the circular part (around the sprockets). This ensures the chain has zero polygonal or chordal action thus giving constant chain velocity and also no tension variation. This chain can, therefore, be put under high tension and so provide a precise, stiff moving platform on which to mount tooling. Also, because of the design ensures there is no velocity and tension variation of the chain, sprockets with only a few number of teeth can incorporated. This allows designs with long links in the chain to be used - much longer than traditional chain. Here, the chain links carry component grippers that were operated by a fixed cam adjacent to the chain assembly.

*** Please note, these "web" animations are only simple movies for web display purposes - our actual models can provide much more kinematic information.