AUTOMATED SORTATION SYSTEM FOR CODED ARTICLES OR PACKAGES AND RELATED METHOD

摘要

A sortation system and related method for sorting coded articles, packages, or the like includes a plurality of carriers that are driven in an endless path around a carousel. The carousel is defined by a frame that also forms a guide track for the carriers. Each carrier includes a ledge for supporting an article and an ejector flap. A scanner reads coded information from the articles or packages and determines the proper distribution station for ejection as the carriers pass. When a carrier supporting an article having the selected parameter reaches the desired distribution station, a controller signals an actuator that causes the ejector flap to sweep across the ledge and positively eject the article. To facilitate the automated loading of each article, each carrier may also include a conveyor pan that is capable of being tilted to a substantially horizontal position. In this position, fingers projecting from the pan interleave with a grate and sweep a coded article onto the pan for later sortation and distribution. The pan is then returned to the home position and the article held thereon ejected at the selected distribution station. Also disclosed is a related method of loading an article onto a carrier in a sortation system or the like, as well as a method of sorting the loaded articles for later distribution.