CN1822998A - Enhanced object-feeder pre-processing system - Google Patents
Enhanced object-feeder pre-processing system Download PDFInfo
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- CN1822998A CN1822998A CN200480020065.7A CN200480020065A CN1822998A CN 1822998 A CN1822998 A CN 1822998A CN 200480020065 A CN200480020065 A CN 200480020065A CN 1822998 A CN1822998 A CN 1822998A
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B07—SEPARATING SOLIDS FROM SOLIDS; SORTING
- B07C—POSTAL SORTING; SORTING INDIVIDUAL ARTICLES, OR BULK MATERIAL FIT TO BE SORTED PIECE-MEAL, e.g. BY PICKING
- B07C1/00—Measures preceding sorting according to destination
- B07C1/02—Forming articles into a stream; Arranging articles in a stream, e.g. spacing, orientating
- B07C1/025—Devices for the temporary stacking of objects provided with a stacking and destacking device (interstack device)
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Abstract
A system processing mail having a supply conveyor (10) for feeding carriers (60) to an assist platform (40) that in turn feeds feeder (100).
Description
Technical field
Present invention relates in general to is used to handle postal matter (comprises, for example flat, envelope, mail, postcard and/or other mail) and/or the system of other object etc., and more particularly, some of the preferred embodiment of the invention relates to and is used for the handled flat of flat sorting system is carried out pretreated automation system.
Background technology
Current, multiple systems is used to handle object, for example the thin object of flat (mail flat) and/or other mail.For example, United States Mail (USPS) uses various system to help and improve the processing of flat.
For example, some schematic post-processing systems are called flats mail bundles bag sorting machine in name, transfer Northrop Grumman Corp. (Northrop GrummanCorporation) U.S. Patent No. 6443311 (promptly, ' 311 patent) obtains explanation in, its full content at this by incorporated by reference, just as repeating fully at this.
Again for example, schematic post-processing system is the AFSM100 that is built and used by USPS by Northrop Grumman Corp. and Rapistan system house
TMThe flat sorting system.AFSM100 flat sorter is a kind of mail sorting systems, and it can handle high-capacity for example big flat, for example magazine.Each AFSM100 system has three mail feed units.
In some existing post-processing systems, feeder is used to mail transmission in the system that handles.In some schematic but nonrestrictive examples, these feeders comprise transporting part and partition (for example, being divided into single-piece) part.In this system, mail is placed on the transporting part usually and is transferred to the partition part.In these example system, mail is separated ground (for example, having fixed interval (FI) and/or constant spacing usually) usually and is transferred to the letter sorting part.
In this system, the operator is beginning pending mail loading (for example, manual load from email storage case basket) to transporting part in operation usually.The operator continues loading mail usually in the system handles mail.
In the mail treatment occasion in modern times, letter sorting and other system moved sooner and are longer than past.This can increase supply and/or operate the operator's of these systems burden etc.Under many circumstances, the performance of mail handling equipment more and more depends on the ability of operator's supporting system.
Therefore, need a kind of pretreatment system, it can overcome the above-mentioned and/or other problems relevant with existing system etc.
Summary of the invention
Each embodiment of the present invention can significantly improve existing system and method.In preferred implementations more of the present invention, can overcome one or more in the above-mentioned and/or other problem of existing system.
According to some embodiments, a kind of the mail that is transferred at least one mail feeder is carried out pretreated method, wherein said mail feeder has the conveyer that mail is supplied to thus down-stream system, and described method comprises: a) inciting somebody to action not by at least one preparation operator, the mail of bale packing is placed on the carrier; B) by means of transmission system, promote the mode of carrier not need the operator, described carrier is transferred to described feeder; And c) mail is transferred to the conveyer of described feeder from described carrier.Preferably, the step of described transfer mail comprises the conveyer that mail is moved laterally to described feeder by the feeder operator.In some embodiments, this method also comprises with flat provides described mail.In some embodiments, this method also comprises carrier is transferred to common supply from a plurality of preparation operator locations, and described carrier is transferred near the corresponding mail feeder a plurality of feeder operators position from described common supply.In some embodiments, described transmitting step comprise by means of transmission system along the route that comprises horizontal component part transmit described carrier so that described carrier by side travel at least in part, and/or by means of transmission system along comprising that substantially vertically the route of component part transmits described carrier so that described carrier is moved at least in part substantially vertically.
According to other embodiment, a kind of the mail that is transferred at least one mail feeder is carried out pretreated method, the conveyer that wherein said at least one mail feeder has a system that mail is supplied to thus, described method comprises: a) at least one preparation operator locations mail is unpacked; B) mail that will unpack is placed at least one mail carrier; And c) by means of the transmission system that allows the feeder operator around the periphery discrepancy (egress) of at least one feeder at least one mail carrier is transferred at least one feeder.In some embodiments, transmission system comprises conveyer and movable decking.In some embodiments, movable decking can be moved between near the position of conveyer and the position near feeder.
According to other embodiment, a kind ofly be used for pretreatment and object is transferred to the method for object-feeder, comprising: a) object is loaded on a plurality of carriers; B) adopt supply conveyer to carry described carrier to object-feeder; C), at least one described carrier is transported towards described feeder from described conveyer by means of reciprocating type conveyer; D) after described transportation, object is transferred to described feeder from least one carrier; E) after shifting, described at least one carrier is placed on the return conveyor.
According to other embodiment, a kind of mail treatment (conveyance) system comprises: the feeder that a) is used to supply with mail; B) a plurality of mail carriers; C) at least one mail carrier can be put thereon conveyer; D) described conveyer comprises platform, and wherein said platform can be along from moving to the route away from the position of feeder near the position of feeder, to such an extent as to allow the feeder operator to come in and go out round the periphery of feeder.
According to other embodiment, a kind of thin object is handled (conveyance) system, comprising: the feeder that a) is used to supply with thin object; B) a plurality of carriers of a plurality of thin objects of carrying; C) be used for carrying the conveyer of described carrier to described feeder; D) conveyer, it is arranged to transport at least one carrier from described conveyer to described feeder, comes in and goes out round the periphery of feeder to such an extent as to described conveyer is mobilizable permission feeder operator.In a preferred embodiment, thin object comprises mail.
Consider above-mentioned and/or others, feature and/or the advantage that will be further understood that each embodiment that the following describes in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.Each embodiment can comprise and/or get rid of different aspects, feature and/or advantage.In addition, each embodiment can be in conjunction with the one or more aspects or the feature of other embodiment.Explanation for aspect, feature and/or the advantage of specific implementations should not be construed to limit other embodiment or claims.
Description of drawings
Under the situation that is not limited to broad range of the present invention or various other embodiment, provide accompanying drawing with the form of example.In the drawings, same reference numerals is represented same or similar part, wherein:
Fig. 1 is the front view of the parts of system according to some preferred embodiments of the invention;
Fig. 2 is the enlarged front view to the beamhouse operation parts of similar system shown in Figure 1;
Fig. 3 is the scheme drawing that shows the parts of the operation that can be used for controlling supply conveyer in illustrative examples more of the present invention;
Fig. 4 is the enlarged front view of feeder operating unit in the system similar to system shown in Figure 1;
Fig. 5 is the schematic top elevational view according to a plurality of systems of illustrative examples more of the present invention;
Fig. 6 is the schematic plan according to a plurality of systems of illustrative examples more of the present invention;
Fig. 7 is the schematic plan according to a plurality of systems of illustrative examples more of the present invention;
Fig. 8 is the major side views that can be used for two carriers in illustrative examples more of the present invention;
Fig. 9 is according to preferred embodiments more of the present invention, front view with system of the common supply line between preparation operator and feeder operator; With
Figure 10 is the front view according to the system of most preferred embodiment of the present invention, wherein carrier towards and/or deviate from feeder or other system vertical motion substantially.
The specific embodiment
Various embodiment of the present invention can be applicable in multiple systems and the device.In some nonrestrictive examples, embodiments of the invention can be used for to system similar shown in the patent of ' 311 in, for example, with the processing of the feeder shown in Figure 1 10 that improves ' 311 patent.In addition, in other nonrestrictive example, various embodiment of the present invention can be applicable to and AFSM100
TMThe flat sorting system uses together.
Though preferred embodiment can be used for handling postal matter and (comprises, for example box, flat, envelope, mail, postcard and/or other mail), and most preferred embodiment can be used for handling flat, but various embodiment can also or as selecting can be used to handle other object (for example, the object of any structure).In preferred embodiment, object comprises thin object, for example thin slice, sheet material, lath, magazine, paper products, and/or other thin object.In some preferred embodiments, flat obtains handling.In some preferred embodiment, specific system can handle a plurality of different sizes and/or difform thin object (for example, flat) at specified time.But preferably, thin object meets predetermined characteristic range.
For example, in some preferred embodiment, system can be suitable for handling the flat with one or more following features.In certain embodiments, each flat be roughly rectangle and: a) have height (width) between about 12 inches to 5 inches; B) has length between about 15 inches to 6 inches; And/or c) has thickness between about 0.75 inch to 0.009 inch.And in certain embodiments, each flat also is in one or more following weight ranges: a) be lower than about 13 ounces (for example, for first-class mails); B) be lower than about 16 ounces (for example, for standard mail); And/or c) is lower than about 20 ounces (for example, for periodical and bound printed matters).And in certain embodiments, each flat also satisfies the various mail service relate to " upset ability (turning ability) " and/or " deflection (deflection) " (for example, USPS) standard.Though some preferred embodiments have related to the processing for the flat with feature discussed herein, a plurality of other embodiment can be applicable to handle various other flat structures or specification, for example ' disclosed flat in 311 patents.Aforementioned illustrative examples is not limited to flat with broad applicability of the present invention and/or has other object or the material of further feature, and these features can be depending on specific environment and be ever-changing.
In some illustrative examples,, pretreatment system serves one or more AFSM100 thereby can being set
TMSystem or other system, and described pretreatment system can comprise, one or more, preferably whole with in the lower member for example, that is: the full carrier supply conveyer 10; Empty carrier return conveyor 20; Movable carrier leaning device 30; Fixed assist platform 40; Transfer slide 50 and/or a plurality of mail carrier 60.
In some illustrative examples, as shown in figs. 1 and 2, at the 10A place, inlet end of supply conveyer 10, the flat of bale packing can be directly unpacked and is placed in advance the mail carrier 60 from case basket 30H.Full carrier 60 can be lined up and be transported to the fixed assist platform 40 between conveyer 10 and feeder 100 then.Full carrier 60 can be moved (for example, by means of fixed assist platform 40) to the receiving area 110 at the place, inlet end that is positioned at feeder.Preferably, feeder operator OpF is unloaded to flat F in the feeder 100, then empty carrier 60 is put on the empty carrier return conveyor 20.
Though some embodiment can for example use with the feeder of supplying with mail,, other various embodiment can use with the feeder of supplying with other object or material.According to Webster II new edition dictionary, the term feeder comprises " [one] supply ... the device of material " and is not limited to any specific supply form or is not limited to any specific supply object.
Supply conveyer:
In some illustrative examples, full carrier supply conveyer 10 can comprise that power roll-type zone stores up type conveyer (powered-roller, zone-accumulationconveyor), so that full carrier is lined up and is transported to fixed assist platform 40 from the preparation operator OpP loading area regional Z1 of the 10A place, inlet end that is positioned at conveyer among Fig. 3 (for example, referring to).Conveyer 10 can comprise, for example a plurality of live rolls 11.In other embodiments, can use any other conveyer, for example one or more rotation load-transfer devices, one or more pusher, one or more movable decking and/or any other suitable conveyer.The downstream end of supply conveyer can be positioned near the position of expectation transmission, for example near feeder 100 (for example, AFSM100 feeder).Preferably, between the discharge end of feeder etc. and conveyer, there is about several feet at least distance D 1 (for example, so that operator freely pass through betwixt).In some illustrative examples, this distance D 1 can be between about 3 to 5 feet, and in an illustrative examples, are about 4 feet, perhaps more preferably, are about 46 inches.
In some illustrative examples, the supply conveyer long enough to be to handle a plurality of carriers at specified time, for example 2 or more carriers, perhaps more preferably, 3 or more carriers, perhaps more preferably, 5 or more carriers.In some illustrative examples, conveyer can have the length DS between about 5 to 15 feet.In some illustrative examples, conveyer can be about 1 to 3 foot wide.In an illustrative examples, conveyer is about 10 feet long, about 2 feet wide and can store 5 carriers at specified time.In some illustrative examples, the speed operation that conveyer can per minute about 25 to 75 feet (FPM), and in an illustrative examples, its approximately the speed of 50FPM move.In some illustrative examples, supply conveyer is divided into five two feet long zones, for example regional Z1 to Z5 shown in Fig. 3.
Have among the embodiment in a plurality of " zones " that relate to conveyer 10 at some, as shown in Figure 3, detector or sensor 18, for example optical sensor or camera monitor (photoeye) can for example be placed in each regional downstream edge, to detect existing of carrier on it.Detector 18 can for example be exported existence and/or the non-existent signal that shows the carrier on ad-hoc location.In certain embodiments, as shown in Figure 3, controller, for example computing machine, treater etc. can be used to optionally activate suitable roller by means of one or more roller driver trains.By this way, for example, the roller in the specific region can be by self actuating to carry carrier.For example, full carrier can be moved forward to empty downstream area automatically, for example, at them when accepting to handle.
Preferably, position sensor or sensor 12, ejection block 13 and instruction button 14 are placed near the discharge end 10B that is positioned at supply conveyer.When platform 40 is on the position in the end of contiguous supply conveyer 10, preferably, prevent that carrier 60 from moving away the end of supply conveyer 10 thereby eject block 13 vertical rises.Preferably, when fixed assist platform 40 moved to the position of discharge end of contiguous supply conveyer, bindiny mechanism prevented platform 40 displacements.Preferably, position transduser 12 confirms that platform is locked in place.Preferably, when receiving this affirmation,, ejection block 13 leaves supply conveyer to allow carrier 60 to be transmitted thereby being subjected to automatic guidance decline.Control may be implemented in a variety of ways, and for example uses screw actuator to eject block and provide starting current to the detection of screw actuator with response sensor 12 simultaneously to move.In certain embodiments, control can be adopted a for example controller or a plurality of controller shown in Fig. 3.
Preferably, instruction button 14 makes full carrier 60 be moved on the platform 40 from the downstream area of conveyer 10.Instruction button 14 can for example comprise the button of being pressed (for example, manual etc.) by the operator.In certain embodiments, button 14 is pressed to be made ejection block 13 withdraw and will make at least some rollers 11 of conveyer move forward carrier.
Preferably, after carrier was by safe transmission, the operator was responsible for untiing the bindiny mechanism between platform 40 and the conveyer.The feature of this bindiny mechanism can help to guarantee that platform 40 can not separate with supply conveyer when full carrier just is transferred to platform 40.At assistance platform 40 and supply conveyer 10 after separatings, preferably, eject block 13 just by self actuating to eject to blocking position.
Preferably, another instruction button 15 and fixed stop 16 are placed in the 10A place, inlet end of supply conveyer 10.As mentioned above, preparation operator OpP is in upstream loading area filling empty carrier 60.Preferably, fixed stop 16 prevents that carrier from moving away the inlet end of conveyer.Preferably, operator OpP can press instruction button 15 by conveyer 10 full carrier is moved forward from upstream loading area Z1.For example, roller 11 rotations that preferably, that instruction button 15 makes is specific (for example, in the example shown in Figure 3 in the regional Z1) and move forward carrier.Preferably, the emergent stay cord 17 that stops to extend along the length of supply conveyer substantially, so that conveyer can manually be stopped, for example, stops conveyer 10 by manual activation (for example, drawing) when some situation.
Though supply conveyer comprises live roll in some illustrative examples,, in other various embodiment, can use one or more other conveyers.For example, can comprise one or more load-transfer devices and/or other conveyer.The term " conveyer " that is used for the present patent application comprises any mechanism that carrier is moved, for example, and one or more rotation load-transfer devices, one or more pushers, one or more movable deckings and/or any other suitable conveyer.In a preferred embodiment, this conveyer is configured to have along the carrier movement portion that distinguishes between a plurality of zones of conveyer.
Return conveyor:
Preferably, provide empty carrier return conveyor 20.In a preferred embodiment, return conveyor 20 can be similar substantially with supply conveyer 10, but can be used for returning empty carrier.In an illustrative examples, return conveyor 20 can be similar to supply conveyer 10, for example, in a schematic example, is about 10 feet long and about 2 feet wide.The same with supply conveyer 10, the size of return conveyor 20 can be based on particular case and difference.Preferably, return conveyor 20 is a powered-roller, low-pressure accumulation conveyor.Preferably, the main portion of conveyer 20 or conveyer 20 is positioned at the below of supply conveyer 10.In a preferred embodiment, conveyer 20 is used to the empty carrier queuing and is transported to preparation operator OpP.
The same with supply conveyer 10, be appreciated that based on disclosure of the present invention return conveyor 20 can comprise any suitable conveyer.And in certain embodiments, the operation of return conveyor also can be controlled via controller etc., for example via controlling with controller identical shown in Fig. 3.
The case basket:
Preferably, case basket 30H is set and is used for holding flat.In certain embodiments, as shown in figs. 1 and 2, case basket 30H can comprise open-topped container, and it has a diapire and four sidewalls.At some schematically but in the non-restrictive example, case basket leaning device 30 is set is used to operate described case basket 30H.In some illustrative examples, can use the portable postal container tilter (for example, PTU-2DC type) of rope Ellsworth company.These described subsequently leanings device have been used for the human engineering processing of specific material transport equipment by USPS.In some cases, tilting force can be applied so that case basket 30H can be tilted to ergonomic positions.In some cases, leaning device can comprise and has for example hydraulic power transmission system of DC machine and Hydraulic Pump.In certain embodiments, container tilter can have the ability that surpasses 1000 pounds (1bs), and preferably, is about at least 2000 pounds ability.Preferably, can rotary plastic and/or canvas suitcase basket, wire basket and/or load member (Gaylord) surpass about 60 degree, and preferably, reach about at least 80 to 90 degree.In an illustrative examples, leaning device is supported by roller (for example, diameter is approximately 3 to 3 inches) that is positioned at the front side and the rotation castor (for example, diameter is about 6 inches) that is positioned at rear side.
Conveyer (for example, fixed assist platform):
In a preferred embodiment, be provided with the conveyer that carrier is transported to feeder.Preferably, conveyer is configured at least one full carrier is transported to feeder from conveyer.So-called conveyer comprises any device that transports or be transported to another position from a position.In a preferred embodiment, conveyer is movably to allow the feeder operator to come in and go out around feeder.In various embodiment, any type of conveyer can use, for example, and movable decking, movable traction machine, hand barrow, wheel bracket, vehicle, conveyer and/or other suitable conveying arrangement.In some preferred embodiments, but the conveyer crank motion.In some preferred embodiments, conveyer can be along substantially constant course (for example, along track etc.) crank motion, and in other embodiments, crank motion can comprise does not follow moving back and forth substantially of specific course between the two positions.
In certain embodiments, the transmission system that carrier is transferred to feeder can comprise one or more conveyers and/or one or more conveyer (for example, supply conveyer 10).So-called transmission system comprises the transmission object and comprises any system of one or more for example conveyers, conveyer and/or other devices etc.
In some preferred embodiments, conveyer can comprise the platform of being convenient to be transported to feeder 100, and for example fixed assist platform 40.So-called platform comprises any structure that can support carrier.In certain embodiments, platform can comprise smooth substantially surface, yet in other embodiments, platform can comprise multiple other structure.In addition, platform can comprise a plurality of separating parts that support one or more carriers together.In illustrative examples shown in Figure 1, platform 40 is by framework 41 supportings, and described framework 41 has at least one upright substantially supporting member 43 (two members 43 are shown in the illustrative examples shown in Figure 1) and at least one transverse member 42 (two members 42 are shown in the illustrative examples shown in Figure 1).In an illustrative examples, platform 40 is supported by at least one hanger bearing member 44 (two members 44 are shown in the illustrative examples shown in Figure 1).Preferably, each supporting member (for example moves bindiny mechanism 45 via straight line, via linear bearing, roller and/or other suitable transverse moving mechanism, this is very tangible for open based on the present invention) be connected at least one transverse member 42 movably.Preferably, linear bearing or other travel mechanism are configured to allow platform 40 along moving with axis (for example, being positioned at the discharge end of supply conveyer) along the axis almost parallel of supply conveyer and connecting supply conveyer 10 and feeder 100 simultaneously.And preferably, the direct of travel of platform 40 is parallel with the direct of travel of the roller feed surface of supply conveyer 10.
In some preferred embodiments, platform 40 for example by the manual platform that promotes, thereby is crossed framework 41 with horizontal slip of described platform along framework 41 manual positionings.So in some preferred embodiments, platform 40 be can't help propulsion source and is moved.But in various embodiment, motor and/or other travel mechanism can be used with the motion that helps and/or implementation platform 40 is crossed framework 41.
In a preferred embodiment, fixed assist platform 40 is used to full carrier 60 is transported to from the discharge end of supply conveyer 10 end, upstream of feeder 100.In a preferred embodiment, fixed assist platform 40 comprises a plurality of non-power conveying rollers, be used for helping with carrying 60 towards with deviate from assistance platform 40 and move.In some illustrative examples, platform 40 can comprise the non-dynamic roller feed surface, and it has and is the length between about 1 to 2 foot, and is preferably about 16 inches length and about 1 to 3 foot width, and is preferably about 24 inches width.As shown in Figure 5, in some illustrative examples, the distance of platform between moving about 3 to 5 feet between near first position of function 40P1 the supply conveyer 10 and near the second position of function 40P2 the feeder 100, and it more preferably is about 4 inches, and in some illustrative examples, be about 46 inches.
In a preferred embodiment, these two position of function of flat-bed lay respectively at the end of its effective travel.At primary importance 40P1, preferably, the arrival end portion of platform 40 is positioned near the discharge end 10B of supply conveyer 10.At second place 40P2, preferably, platform 40 is positioned near the feeder 100, for example is positioned on the zone 110, to such an extent as to the full carrier that is arranged on the flat-bed feed surface can easily be unloaded to feeder 100.
In some illustrative examples, supporting frame structure and/or other supporting structure (for example, the overhead type framework 41 shown in the illustrative examples) are configured to help in two criterions of the following stated at least one, preferably two.
For first preferred criteria, preferably, lead to and/or remain enough big (for example, preferably, outlet and existing system, for example the outlet that has now in the AFSM100 system is substantially the same) around the outlet of feeder 100 etc.In some illustrative examples, as shown in Figure 5, full carrier 60 can move to the expectation unloading position of the entrance of feeder 100 from the discharge end 10B of the supply formation of supply conveyer 10, and does not block feeder operator outlet (egress) 40E of the rear side that for example leads to feeder.Preferably, fixed assist platform 40 usually or be placed and be positioned at the column position 40P1 of Supply Corps perhaps is placed and is positioned at for part position 40P2, as shown in Figure 5.In illustrative examples shown in Figure 5, during near fixed assist platform 40 is positioned at the discharge end of supply conveyer position 40P1, between the discharge end of feeder 100A and fixed assist platform, there is about 30 inches passageway D2.In illustrative examples shown in Figure 5, during near fixed assist platform 40 is placed in feeder position 40P2, between the discharge end of feeder 100C and fixed assist platform, there is about 46 inches passageway D1.Though selected these sizes in some preferred embodiments, size in other embodiments can be depending on situation and difference.Only shown in some non-limiting examples, these sizes can change plus or minus 10% in certain embodiments, perhaps change plus or minus 25% in some other embodiment, perhaps change plus or minus 50% in other other embodiment.
About second preferred criteria, preferably, the side that feeder operator permission roughly touches carrier fully for example, need not touched in the mode of non-human engineering.For example, preferably, the feeder operator can stand in the face of a side of carrier, and does not significantly hinder (for example, among Fig. 5 shown in the OpF/40 of operator position) between operator OpF and the mail got ready.Wherein, substantially touch carrier 60 fully and/or the mail got ready can help guarantee that the human engineering to feeder 100 loads.
In some preferred embodiments, preferably, secondary attachment system comprises in following three controlling features one or more, preferably whole.
Preferably, to such an extent as to comprising, first controlling features uses the non-dynamic roller that only rotated by mechanical constraint towards a direction (preferably, along the direct of travel identical substantially) with supply conveyer 10.Wherein, this can make full carrier can be transported on the platform 40, stops them to leave platform retreating simultaneously when feeder 100 moves.Preferably, roller is also put high friction rubber bush (for example, the rotation that is used to stop carrier 60 to be independent of platform rollers and motion on described platform for example slide).
Preferably, second controlling features is included in the flat-bed downstream end fixed stop is provided, and leaves the flat-bed downstream end to such an extent as to stop full carrier to move forward.Wherein, for example when full carrier is moved on the platform, with the roller rotation (for example, according to first controlling features) of fixed platform block and mechanical constraint but the described full carrier of the efficient capture that combines.
Preferably, when the 3rd controlling features comprises near platform is moved to the discharging place of supply conveyer platform " loaded " position 40P1, described platform automatic engagement (for example, locking and/or buckle) arrives, for example on the fixed bearing of supply conveyer 10 and/or contiguous described supply conveyer.Can use any suitable bindiny mechanism (for example, any suitable locking and/or snap device).As just an example, as schematically showing in the broken circle among Fig. 1, the 40C of bindiny mechanism that comprises locking lever 40L can be set, wherein said locking lever 40L has the surperficial 40S that has cam part, described surperficial 40S can make described bar 40L rotate and/or moves (wherein, described bar 40L and described lock dog 40B fix with respect to corresponding one or another in platform 40 and the conveyer 10 respectively) along vertical direction substantially by crossing the fixing camming action of lock dog 40B.
In a preferred embodiment, also transfer slide 50 is set in the end, upstream of feeder 100.In some preferred embodiments, existing system wherein, for example the AFSM100 system is improved, and existing feeder can renovate improvement with this transfer slide.In some preferred embodiments, the height of transfer slide and/or angle are configured to allow feeder operator OpF with object, and for example flat in batch easily slides into (for example, on the load-transfer device of feeder) on the feeder from carrier.In a preferred embodiment, object (for example, flat) and nonessential being raised to be loaded in the feeder.Wherein, the slip flat can allow the operator to handle more a plurality of objects (for example, more large quantities of flat) and/or can reduce the number of times of operator's loader cycle.At some schematically but in the non-restrictive example, transfer slide can have about 12 inches length, about 4 inches height and with the angle tilts of about 15 degree.
Carrier:
In various embodiment, object carriers 60 can have multiple structure (for example, depend on to be delivered, such as the feature of the object of flat).In some preferred embodiments, carrier is made of plastics.In some preferred embodiments, carrier for example is formed by injection moulding by mold treatment.In some preferred embodiments, preferably, the size of carrier is selected to single carrier is installed to (exceptional space that for example, has limited amount on platform) on the platform 40.In some preferred embodiments, carrier is configured to weigh less than about 10 pounds, and more preferably, is lower than about 8 pounds, and more preferably, is about 6 pounds in some illustrative examples.In some preferred embodiments, carrier is applicable to the carrying flat and has and holds the capacity that surpasses 100 envelope flats, and more preferably, has the capacity that surpasses about 150 envelope flats, and in some illustrative examples, has the capacity that holds about 170 envelope flats.
In some preferred embodiments, side and bottom surface at an angle α (for example, between about 5 and 15 degree, and more preferably, about 10 degree) tilting keeps them with efficient when the mail transmission that will get ready is to supply conveyer.Preferably, two little maintenance edges 61 that protrude upward prevent that slide mail from leaving the base support wall 62 of carrier 60.In addition, preferably, base support wall 62 θ (preferably, for example, about 90 spend) is at an angle traversed side bearing wall 63.In a preferred embodiment, carrier is configured to comprise plastic thin wall, and preferably, as shown in the figure, wall 62 and 63 is strengthened with flank 62R and 63R respectively.In some illustrative examples, carrier can have about 16 to 24 inches length L, and more preferably, about 20 inches length L.In some illustrative examples, carrier can have about 10 to 20 inches width W, and more preferably, about 15 inches width W.
Be schematically shown in the broken circle as shown in Figure 8, in certain embodiments, the outer end 62E of base support wall 62 can comprise the sponson 62L at the input edge that is configured to extend across transfer slide 50.
Though illustrated and illustrated some schematic carrier designs, various embodiment can adopt various carrier designs.For example, can be according to the various systems of various embodiments of the present invention with multiple carrier types and design operation.
Operation:
In some illustrative examples, the operation of these embodiment can be as described below.
About preparation and queuing, preferably, preparation operator OpP stands near the inlet end 10A that is positioned at supply conveyer 10.Preferably, settled by the case basket 30H of the object of bale packing (for example, the flat of bale packing) and be positioned near the inlet of supply conveyer.Preferably, described case basket is laid several feet scopes that are positioned at conveyer 10, and most preferably, is positioned at the accessibility scope of arm of preparation operator OpP.Preferably, preparation operator uses case basket leaning device 30 that case basket 30H is operated in the ergonomic positions.In operating process, preferably, preparation operator OpP fetches empty carrier from the discharging place of the empty carrier line of return 20.Preferably, preparation operator is placed on (for example, the regional Z1 shown in Fig. 3) on the upstream region in the entrance of supply conveyer 10 with empty carrier.
Preferably, preparation operator is obtained bundled flat from case basket 30H, and removes the binding that flat is remained this bale packing.In some preferred embodiments, the tape cutter that suspends (hanging band cutter) 30C (for example, as shown in Figure 9) can be set to help to cut off binding.After removing binding, preferably, loose flat is placed on the carrier 60.In some preferred embodiments, flat is placed on the carrier 60 in the downward mode of arbitrary constrained edge.Preferably, case basket 30H is arranged to make operator's motion to reach minimum and make operator's ergonomic efficiency reach maximum with respect to the position of carrier, the use of case basket leaning device and the height (at the loading area place of supply conveyer 10) of carrier 60.In the embodiment shown in fig. 6, case basket 30 roughly is placed near supply conveyer 10, and wherein operator OpP is simultaneously in the face of case basket and supply conveyer.In the embodiment shown in fig. 7, case basket 30H and supply conveyer 10 are laid (for example, vertical substantially) at an angle, between these positions shown in wherein operator OpP can easily arrive.In some preferred embodiments, operator OpP needn't obviously walk about and/or obviously rotate their health (for example, their body).In some preferred embodiments, the operator needn't obviously jackknife, and for example, has among the embodiment of return conveyor of lower position operator's only jackknife once when each carrier load (for example, fetching empty carrier) at some.
Preferably, after the carrier 60 on the loading area that is positioned at conveyer 10 was filled, preparation operator OpP just pressed instruction button 15.Preferably, supply conveyer 10 is then by starting is next regional so that full carrier is moved forward to automatically.Can use various forms of automatic guidances, for example, computer control system, treater and/or any other control are to realize the motion of expectation when actuation button 15 (for example, use Fig. 3 shown in controller).Preferably, the carrier of getting ready 60 is supplied via conveyer 10, is used to be transported to fixed assist platform.If carrier can not be transported on the fixed assist platform at once, so preferably, carrier is lined up on supply conveyer 10.
As shown in Fig. 6 and 7, in certain embodiments, one or several feeder operator OpF can be furnished with backup hampers 30HB, do not have the feeder operator thus that the feeder operator can be used as standby preparation operator work under the situation of full carrier, and prepare object.Wherein, this can help to make the utilization of personnel and resource to reach maximization.
About the feeder operation, in a preferred embodiment, the feeder operator manually moves into place the fixed assist platform 40 of sky in the 40P1 place, position of the discharge end of supply conveyer.As mentioned above, preferably, bindiny mechanism's automatic engagement fixed assist platform and supply conveyer.Preferably, feeder operator OpF presses instruction button 14 then and waits for and to be transferred to fully on the fixed assist platform 40 until full carrier.In certain embodiments, responsible operator moves to carrier with help to apply manual force (for example, very little or medium manual force) under some or all of situations, for example on the non-dynamic roller of platform 40.
Preferably, after carrier 60 firmly was placed on the fixed assist platform, feeder operator OpF just manually broke away from fixed assist platform and is connected with supply conveyer.In a preferred embodiment, operator OpF also manually moves to platform the carrier unloading position 40P2 at feeder 100 places.Preferably, feeder operator OpF unloads mail and places it in the feeder from carrier.After all mails emptied from carrier, feeder operator OpF just can for example be placed on empty carrier on the carrier line of return.
As mentioned above, preferably, flat is unloaded and is put into from carrier on the feeder and need not the operator significantly promotes flat, significantly delivers flat, significantly stretches out his or her health and/or significantly stoops his or her health.In addition, in a preferred embodiment, can significantly reduce feeder operator's the needs of walking about and/or rotating.
Other embodiment
In other embodiments, can revise above-mentioned various aspects, feature and/or embodiment.
In certain embodiments, for example, fixed assist platform 40 can have the power feed surface.For example, the motor (not shown) also can be by supporting member 44 supportings.Motor can be for example with the platform side travel.And motor can for example be connected to realizes the rotation of roller on platform.
In other embodiments, for example, can be provided with non-manually (for example, automatically) travel mechanism with realize and/or help fixed assist platform (for example, between position 40P1 and 40P2) motion, rather than, perhaps in addition, manual moving platform betwixt.
In other embodiments, for example, platform 40 can be raised and/or reduce being connected with empty carrier line 20, and/or is connected with supply line and/or is connected with other treatment facility.In certain embodiments, this lifting and/or reduction action can manually apply.In certain embodiments, this lifting and/or reduction action can for example apply by means of motor-driven lifting mechanism by means of non-hand gear.In some schematic example, platform 40 can be bearing on the supporting member 44 movably by means of motor-driven messenger chain.
In other embodiments, for example, platform 40 can have from the below, rather than the framework and/or the supporting structure that support from the top.In addition, in other embodiments, for example, platform 40 can be supported in from top ceiling and/or on the framework and/or other structure of other structure suspension.
In other embodiments, for example, it is mobilizable that supply conveyer system, empty conveyor system and/or fixed assist platform system can be configured to.For example, one or more in these systems, or wheel or castor all can be installed move to allow the inside of described system in the place etc.
In other embodiments, for example, as shown in Figure 9, a plurality of supply lines 10 can be supplied with by a trunk main 10M.In illustrative examples shown in Figure 9, trunk main 10M can supply to supply line 10 by means of horizontal (for example, right angle) transfer device.In addition also as shown in Figure 9, in certain embodiments, similar empty carrier line of return 20M can be placed near supply line (for example, below).In certain embodiments, trunk main 10M can be from a plurality of dead works station PW (though three workstations be shown in the illustrative examples, but other embodiment can comprise the workstation of any desired quantity), for example supply with by means of horizontal (for example, right angle) transfer device 10L.Equally, empty carrier is returned or re-circulation line can be settled and is positioned at (for example, below) near the workstation lateral transfer mechanisms shown in the figure.Fig. 9 has also shown the optional flat tub supply line 10FT that can be arranged among some other embodiment.For example, the flat tub supply line can be used for supplying the flat tub from other source (flat tub), for example, and from mail service mandatory system (TMS), perhaps from other source.
Other most preferred embodiment
Figure 10 has shown according to the present invention some aspects and the feature of some most preferred embodiment.In the embodiment shown in fig. 10, be provided with vertical substantially elevator 200.In a preferred embodiment, elevator 200 comprises conveyer system, and it is used for moving up and down carrier between supply conveyer 10M (for example, have as shown in the figure roller or aforesaid other conveyor mechanism) and return conveyor 20M.In some preferred embodiments, the lift and conveyer system comprises two platforms, comprises the lower platform 40F that is used to carry the upper mounting plate 40E of empty carrier 60E and is used to carry full carrier 60F.In some illustrative examples, thereby platform 40E and 40F can be installed together the distance that keeps fixing each other (for example, and the distance about equally of the distance between conveyer 10M and the 20M).In Figure 10, the elevator of the leftmost side has shown the empty carrier 60E and the full carrier 60F of transmission together.But, in some cases, full carrier 60F being transferred in the process of feeder 100, platform 40E can not have other carriers.So when article transfer was arrived feeder, the carrier that empties can be placed on the platform 40E.Thereby but elevator then lifting platform empty carrier 60E laterally be unloaded on the conveyer 20M, and full carrier is moved laterally on the platform 40F.Then, elevator can reduce new full carrier to continue processing.In other embodiments, platform 40E and 40F can be controlled so as to with being mutually independent and move.In other embodiments, each platform can be placed into each other near (for example, adopting to have for example elevator 200 of the remodeling of a plurality of lifting shafts), to such an extent as to upwards and/downward moving can produce with being mutually independent.But, two platforms are installed can be improved the feature of saving the space and improve feeder 100 outlet on every side to move along route with common axis.
In illustrative examples shown in Figure 10, elevator 200 comprises bearer frame 41.Preferably, elevator have transparent and/or semi-translucent wall or window (for example, making) by glass, resin glass, plastics etc. so that can see inside during operation.Preferably, conveyer 10M and 20M comprise that cross slide way (as shown in the figure), support edge etc. are to help with the carrier maintenance thereon.Preferably, carrier 60E and/or 60F are transmitted between conveyer 10M and/or 20M by means of aforesaid lateral transfer mechanisms.In addition, in some preferred embodiments, as mentioned above, sensor or detector can be used to help based on the position of carrier and control system.For example, in certain embodiments, can control lateral transfer mechanisms based on the existence of the carrier in elevator 200 grades.
In some illustrative examples, platform 40E and 40F can include help towards and/or deviate from the mechanism that platform shifts.For example, in certain embodiments, platform can comprise that live roll or power castor are to help along the motion of one or two axis (for example, parallel with platform).By this way, carrier can towards and/or deviate from platform and easily shifted (for example, at them near the upper side position of conveyer 10M and 20M and/or they lower position) near feeder operator OpF.In some preferred embodiments, the front portion that is positioned at the elevator 200 in operator OpF the place ahead will comprise that opening, door, inlet etc. are so that described operator OpF can touch the carrier on platform 40E and/or the 40F.In some preferred embodiments, fixing and/or ejection block can be used to limit the motion of carrier with respect to elevator, till desired by operator OpF.
In some preferred embodiments, the conveyer 10M shown in Figure 10 and 20M may extend into another elevator (not shown) similar to elevator 200.Then, a described back elevator can help towards and/or deviate from one or more preparation operator locations and shift carriers.For example, this elevator can be transferred to carrier additional conveyer and structure then, similar shown in the dotted line A-A left side among described additional conveyer and structure and Fig. 9, to similar shown in the dotted line B-B right side among Fig. 2, perhaps transfer to based on the present invention and disclose understandable other suitable conveyer and/or structure.In some preferred embodiments, conveyer will be suitable for allowing preparation operator OpP to Fig. 2 and height similar shown in 9 carrier (for example is placed on the supply conveyer 10, by conveyer 10 and/or 20 is tilted to Desired Height up and/or down, for example arrive and Fig. 2 and position similar shown in 9), rather than when it arrived preparation operator OpP, supply conveyer remained on upper/lower positions as shown in figure 10.
More than can be applicable among the embodiment shown in Figure 10 referring to the various aspects of the described embodiment of Fig. 1 to 9.
In some illustrative examples, feeder 100 can comprise load-transfer device 120 and the pusher 130 that extends along the main portion of its end face.To such an extent as to pusher 130 is controlled to be made as and to follow load-transfer device 120 as a kind of " bookend " (referring to Figure 10) such as the thin object of flat that is used on the right side of pusher 130 placing in mode side by side their narrow end.Load-transfer device 120 and pusher 130 can move laterally to flat F in the feeder, are used for being transferred to post-processing system 300.In certain embodiments, pusher 130 is installed into, and when expectation, it can manually be caught at handle 130H place, and upwards raises, and moves backward to the left side of load-transfer device 120, to support additional flat.Preferably, pusher 130 will break away from its driver train that is associated when being raised and be connected, and when load-transfer device 120 reduces backward, the driver train that described pusher 130 will be associated with it reconnects.
Though illustrative examples of the present invention has been described here, but the present invention is not limited to each preferred embodiment described here, but comprise having based on the modification known to those skilled in the art of this disclosure of the Invention, omission, combination (for example, crossing over the aspect of each embodiment), remodeling and/or any and all embodiment of changing.Restriction in claims will explain largo based on employed language in claims, and be not limited in this specification sheets, the perhaps example described in the process of carrying out in application, and it is not exclusive that these examples will be considered to.For example, in this disclosure of the Invention, term " preferably " right and wrong are exclusive, and the meaning of expression " preferred, as still to be not limited to ".Add the limiting mode that function or step add function for device, they only are only applicable to satisfy the occasion of all following conditions in specific claim limits: a) " be used for ... device " or " be used for ... step " clearly put down in writing; B) function corresponding is clearly put down in writing; And c) supports that structure, material or the action of this structure or step are not put down in writing.
Claims (32)
1. one kind is carried out pretreated method to the mail that is transferred at least one mail feeder, and wherein said mail feeder has the conveyer that mail is supplied to thus down-stream system, and described method comprises:
A) inciting somebody to action not by at least one preparation operator, the mail of bale packing is placed on the carrier;
B) by means of transmission system, promote the mode of carrier not need the operator, described carrier is transferred to described feeder; With
C) mail is transferred to the conveyer of described feeder from described carrier.
2. method according to claim 1, the step of wherein said transfer mail comprise the conveyer that mail is moved laterally to described feeder by the feeder operator.
3. method according to claim 1 comprises that also the form with flat provides described mail.
4. method according to claim 1, also comprise carrier is transferred to common supply from a plurality of preparation operator locations, and described carrier is transferred near the corresponding mail feeder a plurality of feeder operators position from described common supply.
5. method according to claim 1, wherein said transmitting step comprise by means of described transmission system transmits described carrier along the route that comprises horizontal component part, to such an extent as to described carrier is by side travel at least in part.
6. method according to claim 1, wherein said transmitting step comprise by means of described transmission system along comprising that substantially vertically the route of component part transmits described carrier, to such an extent as to described carrier is moved at least in part substantially vertically.
7. method according to claim 1, wherein said transmission system comprises conveyer.
8. method according to claim 1, wherein said transmission system comprises movable decking.
9. method according to claim 1, wherein said transmission system comprises conveyer and movable decking.
10. method according to claim 9, wherein said movable decking is bearing on the framework.
11. method according to claim 9, wherein said movable decking is raised or is reduced to described feeder.
12. method according to claim 9, wherein said movable decking is laterally moved to described feeder.
13. method according to claim 9, wherein said movable decking can near motion between end of described conveyer and the described feeder.
14. method according to claim 1 comprises that also adopting the transfer slide with inclined upper surface to make described slide mail leave described carrier arrives on the described feeder.
15. one kind is carried out pretreated method to the mail that is transferred at least one mail feeder, wherein said mail feeder has mail is supplied to conveyer in the system thus, comprising:
A) at least one preparation operator locations mail is unpacked;
B) described mail of having unpacked is placed at least one mail carrier; With
C) by means of the transmission system that allows the feeder operator to come in and go out described at least one mail carrier is transferred to described at least one mail feeder round the periphery of at least one mail feeder.
16. method according to claim 15, also comprise carrier is transferred to common supply from a plurality of preparation operator locations, and described carrier is transferred near the corresponding mail feeder a plurality of feeder operators position from described common supply.
17. comprising by means of described transmission system, method according to claim 15, wherein said transmitting step transmit described carrier, to such an extent as to described carrier is moved laterally to described feeder at least in part along the route that comprises horizontal component part.
18. method according to claim 15, wherein said transmitting step comprises by means of described transmission system along comprising that substantially vertically the route of component part transmits described carrier, to such an extent as to described carrier is moved to described feeder at least in part substantially vertically.
19. method according to claim 15, wherein said transmission system comprises conveyer.
20. method according to claim 15, wherein said transmission system comprises movable decking.
21. method according to claim 15, wherein said transmission system comprises conveyer and movable decking.
22. method according to claim 21, wherein said movable decking can be moved between the position of position that is close to described conveyer and contiguous described feeder.
23. method according to claim 15 comprises that also making described slide mail leave described carrier by means of tilt sliding surface arrives on the described feeder.
24. one kind is used for the pretreatment object and object is transferred to the method for object-feeder, comprising:
A) object is loaded on a plurality of carriers;
B) utilize supply conveyer to carry described carrier to object-feeder;
C) on reciprocating type conveyer, at least one described carrier is transported towards described feeder from described conveyer;
D) after transportation, object is transferred to described feeder from described at least one carrier;
E) after shifting, described at least one carrier is placed on the return conveyor.
25. method according to claim 24, wherein said platform are at least in part along vertical substantially direction crank motion.
26. method according to claim 24, wherein said platform be the direction crank motion of edge cardinal principle level at least in part.
27. method according to claim 24, wherein said object comprises mail.
28. a post-processing system comprises:
A) be used to supply with the feeder of mail;
B) a plurality of mail carriers;
C) at least one described mail carrier can be laid thereon conveyer;
D) described conveyer comprises platform, and wherein platform can be along from moving to the route away from the position of described feeder near the position of described feeder, to such an extent as to allow the feeder operator to come in and go out round the periphery of described feeder.
29. post-processing system according to claim 28, wherein said route comprises horizontal component part, to such an extent as to described supporting is moved laterally to described feeder at least in part.
30. post-processing system according to claim 28, wherein said route comprise substantially vertically component part, to such an extent as to described supporting is moved to described feeder at least in part substantially vertically.
31. a thin object disposal system comprises:
A) be used to supply with the feeder that approaches object;
B) a plurality of carriers of a plurality of described thin objects of carrying;
C) be used for carrying the conveyer of described carrier to described feeder;
D) conveyer, it is arranged to transport at least one described carrier from described conveyer to described feeder, and described conveyer is mobilizable to allow the feeder operator to come in and go out round the periphery of feeder.
32. system according to claim 31, wherein said thin object comprises mail.
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| US46982803P | 2003-05-13 | 2003-05-13 | |
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| CN200480020065.7A Pending CN1822998A (en) | 2003-05-13 | 2004-05-13 | Enhanced object-feeder pre-processing system |
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| EP (1) | EP1636121A4 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2006528552A (en) |
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| CA (1) | CA2525627A1 (en) |
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2004
- 2004-05-13 WO PCT/US2004/014955 patent/WO2004101401A2/en active Application Filing
- 2004-05-13 CA CA002525627A patent/CA2525627A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2004-05-13 CN CN200480020065.7A patent/CN1822998A/en active Pending
- 2004-05-13 EP EP04752083A patent/EP1636121A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2004-05-13 JP JP2006533017A patent/JP2006528552A/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2004-05-13 US US10/844,431 patent/US20040245714A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN102224093A (en) * | 2008-09-05 | 2011-10-19 | 科恩国际公司 | Conveying apparatus for envelopes and related methods |
| CN102224093B (en) * | 2008-09-05 | 2014-08-20 | 科恩国际公司 | Conveying apparatus for envelopes and related methods |
| CN107810155A (en) * | 2015-06-30 | 2018-03-16 | 法国希迈公司 | Apparatus and method for loading storage region |
| CN106144577A (en) * | 2016-08-18 | 2016-11-23 | 江苏顺泰包装印刷科技有限公司 | Avoid jumping the cigarette peduncle paper inspection paper machine automatic feeder of paper |
| CN106144577B (en) * | 2016-08-18 | 2018-02-23 | 江苏顺泰包装印刷科技有限公司 | Avoid jumping the cigarette peduncle paper inspection paper machine automatic feeder of paper |
| CN109205171A (en) * | 2018-09-21 | 2019-01-15 | 广汽菲亚特克莱斯勒汽车有限公司广州分公司 | The automatic wire charging device of body of a motor car harness |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US20040245714A1 (en) | 2004-12-09 |
| WO2004101401A2 (en) | 2004-11-25 |
| WO2004101401A3 (en) | 2005-03-31 |
| EP1636121A2 (en) | 2006-03-22 |
| EP1636121A4 (en) | 2007-11-14 |
| CA2525627A1 (en) | 2004-11-25 |
| JP2006528552A (en) | 2006-12-21 |
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| C06 | Publication | ||
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Open date: 20060823 |