Sorting packages involves changing/emptying containers when full, storing packages in same sequence, entering package data in database and re-ordering during subsequent sorting runs

摘要

The invention relates to the sorting of parcels in several sort passes. In order avoid the need to read the address in each sort pass and in order to avoid printing a machine-readable identification code on each parcel, further elements which are characteristic of the parcels are established during a first sort pass and memorised together with the distribution codes established during the reading process. During subsequent sort passes, the characteristic elements are simply measured and compared with the stored features. Matching parcels are assigned corresponding distribution codes. A special conveyance system with defined sequences guarantees that only n parcels have to be compared at a time, n representing maximum multiple delivery rate.