In the research hall at the recent Hannover Fair, engineers from the University of Hannover were demonstrating a conveyor system that is driven directly by a linear motor underneath. One advantage of this design is that there is the propulsive force is spread evenly along the whole belt, reducing stresses and the stick-slip effect. It is also said to use less energy than conventional belts and to be more dynamic, and would be easy to wash down for food applications.

The belt is driven by T-shaped metal forcers that interact with the coils of the linear motor (a section of which is shown above the prototype belt in the photo above). The researchers say that the conveyor could operate at speeds of 2m/s or faster. They are talking to potential manufacturers.