The first automatic manifold was installed in 1984. The principle: 1 line from each source to the manifold and 1 line from the manifold to each receiver stays the same. Each conveyor needs a check valve and the efficency wasn't what you call great.
1989 the matrix-valve was built in a round shape. This was the most successfull automatic type... it'll likely become less important because of the new automatic technology 24.
Advantages Switching only when a new material is needed
Disadvantages Large investment Check valves are required Purging has to be insatalled separatly Requires a lot of space
