PRODUCT SORTER

摘要

A product sorting apparatus is operable to sort products by inducing an oscillating or rocking motion to a plurality of sorting trays in a vertically stacked arrangement. A subset of the products in a top-most tray selectively pass to successive sorting trays. Each of the sorting trays is configured to receive and selectively transmit the selected products according to a separator or sorting panel that is disposed between an input and an output of a given tray. Each of the separator panels defines apertures that facilitate sorting of the products according to size and/or shape. The rocking or oscillating motion has an amplitude and a period according to an input from a drive mechanism, which may include a motor and drive link with a controller and/or a power switch. Optionally, a safety cage and one or more cutoff switches are provided for protecting the sorter and personnel.

主权项

1. A product sorter comprising:
a frame; a drive mechanism coupled to said frame; a plurality of sorting trays, each of said sorting trays including a product separator and defining an open upper input region above said product separator and an open lower output region below said product separator, wherein said sorting trays are movably coupled to said frame in a vertically stacked arrangement and are operatively coupled to said drive mechanism; said product separator defining an opening that is sized and shaped to permit passage of at least one type of product in a group of products comprising multiple product types; and wherein said drive mechanism is operable to oscillate said sorting trays to thereby move the products along said product separators in response to actuation of said drive mechanism.