System and methods for conveying parts

A method of automatically conveying parts in an assembly process, the method comprising:

• receiving a plurality of parts in a random orientation;
• motivating the parts into a stream of parts using a vibrating element;
• detecting parts in the stream of parts that are misoriented based on an orientation feature discernible on the part, including at least one of a color, a bar code, and other indicia recognizable by an imaging system;
• and
• rejecting the misoriented parts using a flow of air.

An assembly line comprising:

• a linear conveyor for conveying parts along a path to an installation robot;
• one or more vibrating elements positioned along said linear conveyor for imparting vibratory motions to said linear conveyor for stimulating the parts into a stream having linear motion along said linear conveyor, wherein the vibratory motions are altered in frequency to achieve a predetermined movement of the parts, wherein said vibrating elements maintain higher frequency vibratory motions to maintain the parts moving and switch to a relatively lower frequency and relatively higher power vibratory motions to start a flow of the parts or to dislodge stuck parts;
• and
• an air assist portion configured to provide pressurized fluid to the parts to facilitate moving parts along said linear conveyor.