Sorter (logistics)
In logistics, a sorter is a system which performs sortation of products (goods, luggage, mail, etc.) according to their destinations. [1]
A common type of sorter is a conveyor-based system. While they may be based on other conveyor systems, usually sorters are unique types of conveyors.[1]
Sortation is the process of identifying items on a conveyor system and diverting them to specific destinations. Sorters are applied to different applications depending upon the product and the requested rate.
Common elements of sorters[edit]
A feeder system whose sole purpose to feed the products into the sorter in proper orientation and with proper spacing, so that the sorter could operate correctly.[1]
Another common element are receptacles which receive the products as they leave the sorter towards a proper destination. Receptacles may be as simple as chutes, or gravity conveyors, or powered conveyors.[1]
Sorter types[edit]
There is a number of typical sorter designs.[1]
- Cross belt sorter
- Paddle sorter
- Pop-up transfer sorter
- Lineshaft pop-up wheel sorter
- Pop-up steerable roller sorter
- Pusher or puller sorter
- Parcel Singulator
- Line Sorter
- Shoe sorter
- Slide tray sorter
- Split tray sorter (bomb-bay sorter)
- Tilt tray sorter