System and method for contactless monitoring of performance in an independent cart system

A method for monitoring performance in an independent cart system, wherein the independent cart system includes a track and at least one mover, the method comprising the steps of:

• receiving a signal at a sensing device mounted remote from the track and remote from each of the at least one movers of the independent cart system, wherein the signal corresponds to the at least one mover as the at least one mover travels along the track of the independent cart system;
• generating a feedback signal at the sensing device corresponding to the received signal;
• and
• controlling an actuator operatively connected to a sensing device, wherein the actuator is configured to move the sensing device in at least one axis of motion and wherein the actuator moves the sensing device in coordination with the at least one mover as the at least one mover travels along the track.

An apparatus for monitoring performance in an independent cart system, wherein the independent cart system includes a track, a first mover, and a second mover, the apparatus comprising:

• a sensing device configured to:
• selectively transmit a signal toward either the first mover or the second mover as the first mover and the second mover travel along the track of the independent cart system,
• receive the signal reflected from either the first mover or the second mover, and
• generate a feedback signal corresponding to the received signal;
• an actuator operatively connected to the sensing device to move the sensing device in at least one axis of motion;
• and
• a controller operative to control operation of the actuator in the at least one axis of motion such that the actuator moves the sensing device in coordination with either the first mover and the second mover, according to which of the first mover and the second mover the sensing device is selectively transmitting the signal toward, as the first mover and the second mover travel along the track.