초록 ▼

A sortation and sequencing system for sorting a plurality of different items into discrete orders and putting the items into a predetermined sequence within each discrete order or group of orders. The system includes an induction station for accepting items in random succession, and a sensor at the

A sortation and sequencing system for sorting a plurality of different items into discrete orders and putting the items into a predetermined sequence within each discrete order or group of orders. The system includes an induction station for accepting items in random succession, and a sensor at the induction station for sensing an identifying characteristic unique to each item and for generating tracking signals uniquely corresponding to the items for tracking the items through the system. A controller receives the tracking signals and generates sort command and sequence command signals which are in part responsive to the tracking signals. A sorter receives the items from the induction station and directs individual items to selected ones of a plurality of sort locations, each sort location corresponding to an individual order or group of orders, in response to sort command signals from the controller. A sequencer associated with each sort location receives sorted items from the sorter and discharges the items in a preselected sequence at a discharge location in response to the sequence control signals.

대표청구항 ▼

[ We claim:] [1.] A sortation and sequencing system for sorting a plurality of different items into discrete orders and putting said items into a predetermined sequence within each discrete order, comprisingan induction station for accepting items in random succession,a sensor at said induction stat

[ We claim:] [1.] A sortation and sequencing system for sorting a plurality of different items into discrete orders and putting said items into a predetermined sequence within each discrete order, comprisingan induction station for accepting items in random succession,a sensor at said induction station for sensing an identifying characteristic unique to each item and for generating tracking signals uniquely corresponding to the items for tracking the items through the system,a controller for receiving said tracking signals and generating sort command and sequence command signals in part responsive to said tracking signals,a sorter for receiving said items from said induction station and for directing individual items to selected ones of a plurality of sort locations, each sort location corresponding to an individual order, in response to sort command signals from said controller, anda sequencer associated with each sort location for receiving sorted items from said sorter and for discharging said items in a preselected sequence at a discharge location in response to said sequence control signals.