SORTATION SYSTEM MAGNETIC DIVERTER

摘要

A method and apparatus for sorting objects includes providing a sorter (10) having a conveying surface (11), a plurality of pusher shoes (26) capable of traveling laterally of the conveying surface (11), a plurality of diverting rails (18) extending diagonally under the conveying surface (11), and a plurality of diverters (22) associated with the diverting rails (18). The pusher shoes (26) include an article-contacting member (27) extending at least partially above the conveying surface (11) to laterally displace articles on the conveying surface (11) and a transfer assembly having a magnetic member (24) below the conveying surface (11). The transfer assembly (28) engages one of the diverting rails (18) to laterally displace the corresponding one of the pusher shoes (26). Actuators (41) are provided at the diverters (22). The actuators (41) are selectively energized to attract at least one of the magnetic members (24) towards the associated one of the diverting rails (18). Residual magnetic attraction between the actuators (41) and the magnetic members (24) is reduced when the actuators (41) are not being energized.