EP2741867B1 - Sorting installation and sorting method for jointly sorting different kinds of articles - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a sorting system and a sorting method for the common sorting of two types of objects, in particular for two types of flat postal items, such as EP-A-2 077 162 known.

In the post-published DE 102011076909 A1 For example, a method and an apparatus for processing articles, in particular flat mail items, are described. For each item, it is measured what value a given sorting feature assumes for that item. It is decided whether the item belongs to a first item type or to a second item type. A first discharge means discharges each item of the first item type into a sorting output of the first sorting output quantity. An article of the second article type is transported past the first discharge device and to a second discharge device. The second ejection device discharges the object into a sorting output of a second sorting output set. An image of an article of the second article type is evaluated to decipher a string on the surface, e.g. B. an identification of a destination address for a mailing. An item of the first item type is placed in a predetermined orientation.

In DE 10146842 A1 For example, a method and apparatus for printing flat mail is described. Fig. 1 shows the transport of a postal item 10 from right to left. A first camera 30 captures graphical features from a surface of the mailpiece 10. For example, an image of a postage stamp is compared to reference images in a postage stamp database. Sub-format postal items are rejected. A rotating device 40 is able to turn a mail item 10 and / or to turn. A second camera 50 detects positions of graphical elements on the surface of the mailpiece 10. A printing device 60 prints the mailpiece 10 using measurement results from the second camera 50 to position the print. Subsequently, the mail item is forwarded in one of the directions "reject", large letter ("GBf-Maxi") and small letter ("KBf"), cf. Fig. 1.

In EP 1872867 A1 a sorting system 2 for sorting flat postal items is described. A pre-sorting device 4 sorts out all postal items 24 that are not standard letters. A singler 6 separates the mailpieces, so that the mail items 24 spaced apart from each other and in an upright position through the sorting system 2. A transport line 26 with two drives 44, 54 transports the mailpieces to an alignment unit 10, which aligns the upright mail pieces 24 at their lower edges, and then to a reading device 30. This reading device 30 reads the address and / or a barcode on the mail piece 24 An image capture device 32 generates a computer-accessible image from both surfaces of the mailpiece 24. Subsequently, the mail items 24 are directed in a first system operating mode into a transport sub-string 36. This transport sub-string 36 leads to an alignment means 12, which brings mailings 24 in a uniform orientation, for. B. so that the stamp is placed in front and upside down. A module 14 invalidates the stamp. All mail items 24 arrive on a transport line 26 to an approximately 50 m long delay transport path 16, along which the mailpieces are transported, so that sufficient time remains available for deciphering the address on the mailpiece. A module 18 prints a barcode on mailpieces 24 having addresses that are not completely machine-readable. A module 20 prints a sticker with a forwarding address if necessary. A splitting device 22 distributes the mail pieces 24 according to their addresses to containers, e.g. B. 100 postal codes per container.

In another plant operating mode in EP 1872867 A1 Prepared mail items 24 are fed to the sorting system 2 by means of a second separator 8. These prepared mail items are already aligned uniformly and each provided with a fee stamp. These prepared mail items 24 are then deflected by means of a switch 34 into a bypass 36 with a transport sub-string 38. This bypass 36 leads past the transport sub-strand 42 with the modules 12, 14 and ends before the deceleration transport route 16 again into the transport line 26. In one embodiment, two sort runs are performed. In the second sorting run, the mailpieces 24 are aligned uniformly and orientated to the sorting system 2 again. Therefore, in the second sorting run, the mail items 24 are directed by means of a second switch 46 to a second bypass 48 having a transport sub-string 50. This transport sub-strand 50 leads from the reading device 30 directly to the splitting device 22.

In DE 3821106 A1 a device is described which is able to turn and stamp mailpieces. The mail items 1 are removed from a magazine 6 by means of a feed device 7 and guided in a horizontal position past detectors 9a, 9b which scan the upper or the lower side of a mail item 1. A switch 10 directs a mail item 1 either to a web 12 where the mail item is turned or to a web 11 where the mail item 1 is not turned. On a web 13, in which the webs 11, 12 open, the mail item 1 is guided past a stamp unit 14 with two punch devices 14a, 14b. The stamped mailpieces 1 are distributed by means of a switch 15 on two stacking devices 16a, 16b. The detector 9 detects the location and the writing direction of address blocks. The mail items are turned or not depending on the position of the address blocks and divided depending on this situation on the two stack devices 16a, 16b.

In DE 10 2008 056 904 A1 For example, a method and apparatus for printing a mail item are described. A conveyor clamps each item of mail to be printed in an upright position between two endless conveyor belts 3, 4. This leaves an upper area on the surface of the mail item above the endless conveyor belts 3, 4 and a lower area below the endless conveyor belts 3, 4 free. A first printer 1 is able to print a print on the upper area of the surface, a second printer 2 a print on the lower area. As a result, the item of mail can be provided with two imprints at different positions in a single transport process.

In FR 2915013 A1 and US 2010/0231626 A1 A device is described for devaluing postal items ("appareil d'obliteration"). A mail piece is printed while being transported upright. Fig. 2 shows an arrangement with a plurality of superposed conveyor belts ("courroies 5A, 5D") defining four strip-shaped free zones 9A to 9B. Four printheads ("tete d'impression 6A - 6D") are able to print imprints in these free zones 9A - 9D. Before printing, a camera ("camera numérique 3") takes an image, and a sensor ("capteur de passage 4") takes an image of the mailpiece.

In EP 0654309 B1 a "mail accumulating device" is described. This device pushes mail together so that the mail at least partially overlap.

In US 5,959,288 a sorting system is described, which is able to sort mail items of various sizes. These mail items pass through the sorting system as a sequence of spaced-apart mailpieces. The sorting system distributes the mailpieces to different output units.

The invention has for its object to provide a sorting system and a sorting method for the common sorting of two types of objects for a sorting feature in which as many items of the respective sorting feature value is detected in good time and also the risk of damage due to transporting is reduced ,

The object is achieved by a sorting system having the features of claim 1 and a sorting method having the features of claim 11. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the subclaims.

The sorting system according to the solution sorts objects of a first article type together with articles of a second article type according to a predetermined sorting feature. The objects of the second object type differ from the objects of the first object type by at least one physical parameter, e.g. Example, in that for each item of the second item type, the value of the parameter falls within a predetermined range of values and not for an item of the first item type. This parameter is usually not the sorting feature. The parameter is z. As a dimension, the weight, a surface texture or the flexural rigidity of an item to be sorted. The sorting step includes the process of dividing the items to be sorted into sorting outputs depending on their sorting feature values.

• eine erste Transport-Einrichtung, die sowohl alle zu sortierende Gegenstände der ersten Gegenstands-Art als auch Gegenstände der zweiten Gegenstands-Art zu transportieren vermag,
• eine zweite Transport-Einrichtung, die Gegenstände der zweiten Gegenstands-Art zu transportieren vermag, aber nicht notwendigerweise auch alle zu sortierenden Gegenstände der ersten Gegenstands-Art,
• eine Weiche mit mindestens einem Eingang und mindestens zwei Ausgängen,
• eine erste Menge von Sortierausgängen, die jeweils mindestens einen Gegenstand der ersten Gegenstands-Art aufzunehmen vermögen,
• eine zweite Menge von Sortierausgängen, die jeweils mindestens einen Gegenstand der zweiten Gegenstands-Art aufzunehmen vermögen,
• eine erste Ausschleus-Einrichtung, die Gegenstände der ersten Gegenstands-Art in die Sortierausgänge der ersten Sortierausgänge-Menge auszuschleusen vermag,
• eine zweite Ausschleus-Einrichtung, die Gegenstände der zweiten Gegenstands-Art in Sortierausgänge der zweiten Sortierausgänge-Menge auszuschleusen vermag, und
• ein Messgerät, welches zu messen oder auf andere Weise zu ermitteln vermag, welchen Wert das vorgegebene Sortiermerkmal für einen zu sortierenden Gegenstand annimmt.

The sorting plant according to the invention comprises

• a first transport device capable of transporting both all items of the first item type to be sorted and items of the second item type,
• a second transport device capable of transporting articles of the second article type, but not necessarily also all articles of the first article type to be sorted,
• a switch with at least one entrance and at least two exits,
• a first set of sorting outputs each capable of receiving at least one article of the first article type,
• a second set of sorting outputs each capable of receiving at least one article of the second article type,
• a first discharge device which is able to discharge articles of the first item type into the sorting outputs of the first sorting output quantity,
• a second discharge device which is able to discharge articles of the second article type into sorting outputs of the second sorting output quantity, and
• a measuring device which can measure or otherwise determine which value the predetermined sorting feature assumes for an item to be sorted.

The first transport device leads to the entrance of the switch. In one output of the turnout starts the first discharge device. In the other output of the switch starts the second transport device. The second transport device opens into the second discharge device.

• Das Messgerät ermittelt, welchen Wert das vorgegebene Sortiermerkmal für diesen Gegenstand annimmt.
• Das Messgerät ermittelt, ob der Gegenstand von der ersten Gegenstands-Art oder von der zweiten Gegenstands-Art ist.
• Die erste Transport-Einrichtung transportiert den Gegenstand bis zur Weiche.

For each item to be sorted, the following steps are performed after the item has been delivered to the sorting system:

• The meter determines what value the default sorting feature will take for that item.
• The meter determines whether the item is of the first item type or the second item type.
• The first transport device transports the object to the switch.

The sorting system is designed so that when an object to be sorted reaches the switch, it is known whether that item belongs to the first item type or the second item type.

• Die Weiche lenkt den Gegenstand in die erste Ausschleus-Einrichtung.
• Die erste Ausschleus-Einrichtung transportiert den Gegenstand weiter.

For each item of the first item type, the following steps are performed:

• The switch steers the object into the first discharge device.
• The first discharge device transports the object further.

• Automatisch wählt die Auswahleinheit einen Sortierausgang der ersten Sortierausgänge-Menge aus, und zwar abhängig vom ermittelten Sortiermerkmals-Wert dieses Gegenstands.
• Die erste Ausschleus-Einrichtung schleust den Gegenstand in den ausgewählten Sortierausgang aus.

Then, when the meter has timely determined the sort feature value of that item of the first item type, the following steps are performed:

• The selection unit automatically selects a sorting output of the first sorting output quantity, depending on the ascertained sorting feature value of this item.
• The first ejection device ejects the object into the selected sorting output.

• Die Weiche lenkt den Gegenstand in die zweite Transport-Einrichtung.
• Die zweite Transport-Einrichtung transportiert den Gegenstand weiter und dabei auf die zweite Ausschleus-Einrichtung zu.

For each item of the second item type, the following steps are performed:

• The switch directs the article in the second transport device.
• The second transport device transports the object further and thereby to the second discharge device.

• Automatisch wird ein Sortierausgang ausgewählt, und zwar abhängig vom ermittelten Sortiermerkmals-Wert.
• Falls der ausgewählte Sortierausgang zur zweiten Sortierausgänge-Menge gehört, so transportiert die zweite Transport-Einrichtung den Gegenstand bis zur zweiten Ausschleus-Einrichtung, und die zweite Ausschleus-Einrichtung schleust den Gegenstand in den ausgewählten Sortierausgang der zweiten Sortierausgänge-Menge aus.

Then, when the meter has timely determined the sorting feature value of this item of the second item type, the following steps are performed:

• A sorting output is automatically selected, depending on the determined sorting feature value.
• If the selected sorting output belongs to the second sorting output set, then the second transporting means transports the item to the second outfeed means, and the second outfeed means discharges the item into the selected sorting output of the second sorting output set.

An article of the first article type is transported through the first transport device to the first discharge device and discharged from the first discharge device. An article of the second article type is transported by the first transport device and subsequently by the second transport device to the second transfer device - or at least over a part of the second transport device. Therefore, an item of the second item type is always transported over a longer distance than an item of the first item type.

This longer transport carries a greater risk of damaging the article during transport on the way to the selected sorting exit due to transportation. To take this into account, can be done thanks to the invention, the determination of the types of objects so that sensitive, z. For example, larger, items of the first item type and transported only over a shorter distance, while less sensitive items belong to the second item type and can be transported over a longer distance without being damaged.

Because an item of the second item type is transported over a longer distance than an item of the first item type, there is more time available for the meter to detect the sort feature value of that item of the second item type. The knowledge of the sort feature value is needed to select a sort output. Therefore, less frequently or not at all the case occurs that the meter is not able to deliver the sorting feature value in time. The sorting feature value is required in good time so that the respective rejection device can eject the object into the selected sorting output.

The invention makes it possible that each transport device and each discharge device always transports the articles in the same transport direction and does not have to make a reversal of direction if a sorting feature value is not available on time. Such a reversal of direction would be associated with a high mechanical load on an item to be sorted and often significantly reduces throughput.

• die Anordnung und Ausgestaltung derjenigen Bestandteile der Sortieranlage, die vorgeben, wann ein Sortiermerkmals-Wert rechtzeitig ermittelt ist und wann nicht,
• die Anzahl und die Anordnung von Sortierausgängen der ersten Sortierausgänge-Menge,
• die Anzahl und die Anordnung der Sortierausgänge der zweiten Sortierausgänge-Menge,
• die Länge und Transportgeschwindigkeit der ersten Transport-Einrichtung,
• die Länge und die Transportgeschwindigkeit der zweiten Transport-Einrichtung.

The following design parameters can be changed to adapt the sorting system according to the solution to the current requirements:

• the arrangement and design of those components of the sorting system which specify when a sorting feature value is determined in good time and when not,
• the number and arrangement of sorting outputs of the first sorting output quantity,
• the number and the arrangement of the sorting outputs of the second sorting outputs quantity,
• the length and transport speed of the first transport device,
• the length and the transport speed of the second transport device.

The invention makes it possible to perform a sorting of articles of the first article type according to a first sorting program and a sorting of articles of the second article type according to a second sorting program, overlapping in time or even simultaneously on the sorting system according to the solution. Each sorting program uses a sorting plan, which assigns a sorting output to each occurring sorting feature value.

• Das Messgerät hat den Wert ermittelt, den das Sortiermerkmal für einen zu sortierenden Gegenstand der ersten Gegenstands-Art annimmt.
• Die erste Ausschleus-Einrichtung befindet sich in einem Betriebszustand, in dem die erste Ausschleus-Einrichtung diesen Gegenstand in den ausgewählten Sortierausgang ausschleust, wobei die Auswahl des Sortierausgangs vom ermittelten Sortiermerkmals-Wert abhängt. Um die erste Ausschleus-Einrichtung in diesen Betriebszustand zu versetzen, ist beispielsweise eine Ausschleus-Weiche in die richtige Stellung umgelenkt worden.

In one embodiment, a first time period is specified or determined which elapses at most between the following two events:

• The meter has determined the value that the sorting feature will take for an article of the first item type to be sorted.
• The first discharge device is in an operating state in which the first discharge device discharges this object into the selected sorting output, the selection of the sorting output depending on the determined sorting feature value. In order to put the first discharge device in this operating state, for example, a diverter switch has been deflected into the correct position.

Accordingly, a second maximum period of time for objects of the second article type and for the second discharge device is predetermined or determined.

In this embodiment, the measuring device has timely determined the sorting feature value of an article of the first article type if, after the time at which the measuring device has completed the determination, at least the first maximum time period is still available, around the first rejection Device to the outfeed operating state concerning the selected sorting output. The measuring device thus has available for determining the complete time required to transport the object along the first transport device to the switch, as well as that discharge period, which requires the first discharge device to the object to the to transport the selected sorting output minus the first maximum period of time. The rejection period may differ from the sorting output to the sorting output.

The measuring device has timely determined the sorting feature value of an object of the second article type if at least the second maximum time span is still available after the time at which the measuring device has completed the determination in order to obtain the second rejection device in the discharge operating state regarding the selected one Sorting output of the second sorting outputs set. Thus, the measuring device has available for determining the complete time required to transport the object along the first transport device to the switch and then along the second transport device to the second discharge device, as well as that discharge period that requires the second ejection device to transport the article to the selected sorting exit, minus the second maximum period of time. This rejection period may also differ from sorting output to sorting output.

In another embodiment, the measuring device has only timely determined the sorting feature value of an item of the first article type if the determination is completed at the latest when the article reaches the first discharge device. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the measuring device has only timely determined the sorting feature value of an article of the second article type if the determination is completed at the latest when the article reaches the second rejection device.

In one embodiment, some or even all sorting outputs of the first sorting output set are capable of accommodating both items of the first item type and items of the second item type. For example, the sorting outputs of the first sorting output set are larger than the sorting outputs of the second sorting output set, and the items of the second item type are smaller than the items of the first item type. The second sorting outputs set consists of more sorting outputs than the first sorting outputs set. This embodiment is particularly advantageous if the sorting system usually has to sort more articles of the second article type than articles of the first article type. This embodiment with different numbers and different sized sorting outputs saves space and sorting.

In a further development of this embodiment, the sorting system comprises a further transport device. This further transport device is capable of sorting articles of the second article type to be sorted by the second transport device - or by the second discharge device - back to the first discharge device. This makes it possible for an object of the second article type to be ejected to the first ejection device into a previously selected sorting output of the first sorting output set. This embodiment is z. B. advantageous if individual sorting outputs of the second sorting outputs amount are temporarily not available. This refinement furthermore makes it possible to associate only one sorting output of the second sorting output set with certain sorting feature values and only one sorting output of the first sorting output set in each case with respect to other sorting feature values. This embodiment thus saves sorting outputs of the second sorting outputs quantity. The embodiment is particularly advantageous if some sorting feature values are accepted only by a few items of the second item type.

In one embodiment, the sorting system has at least one identification device, z. B. a printer or labeler ("labeler"). This identification device can provide an item to be sorted with an identification of the determined sorting feature value, for. B. in the form of a bar pattern ("bar code"). Or the tag device provides the item with a unique identifier ("identifier, ID code"). In one embodiment, the sorting system has a single tagging device for both article types. This identification device is then arranged upstream of the switch in order to print objects of both types of objects can.

In another embodiment, the sorting system has a first identification device for articles of the first Item Type and Second Identification Device for Second Item Type Items. The article-item identification device of the first article type is preferably disposed in or on the first discharge device. The second article type article identification device is preferably disposed in or on the second transport device or in or on the second discharge device.

In both embodiments, the or each tagging device may provide an item to be sorted with an identification of the measured sorting feature value only if that sorting feature value has been determined when the item has reached a tagging position during its transport, in which the identification device can provide the article with the marking. Therefore, in this embodiment, the meter has determined the sorting feature value of an item to be sorted in time only when the sorting feature value is present as soon as the item has reached the tagging position.

In one embodiment, the sorting system has at least one special sorting output. It is possible that the first ejection device is able to eject an item to be sorted into a first special sorting output and the second ejection device is capable of sorting an item to be sorted into a second special sorting output. It is also possible that the sorting system has only one special sorting output for both article types and additionally a further transport device, which leads from the second transport device to the first discharge device.

An item is then dumped to a special sort exit if its sort feature value has not been timely determined. In the embodiment just described with the at least one sort feature value identifier, the sort feature value is timely determined if the sorting feature value is present at the latest when the object is in an identification position and can be provided with an identification by the identification device. Otherwise, the item is rejected in a special sorting output.

In a combination of these two embodiments, the or a tagging device then provides an item with a unique identifier ("identifier") if the sorting feature value has not been determined in a timely manner, ie, is not present when the tagging position is reached. The identifier is therefore unique, while the identifier of the determined sorting feature value is not unique, because a plurality of items to be sorted can have the same sorting feature value. The sorting feature value of the rejected item is determined "off-line" while the item is being cached. The determined sorting feature value is stored in association with the unique identifier. At a later date, the object is again supplied to the solution sorting system. The unique identifier is read, and the stored sorting feature value is used as the sorting feature value of that item. The item with the unique identifier is preferably sorted together with other items whose sorting feature values have not yet been determined.

In a preferred embodiment, an order is specified among the sorting feature values, e.g. At least among those values actually accepted by at least one item to be sorted. The items of the first item type are sorted according to this order. A sequence of articles of the first article type is produced in each sorting exit of the first sorting exit set. The respective sequence of objects in each sorting output is made according to the predetermined order of values. Also, the distribution of items on the sorting outputs depends on the given Order, in addition to which a predetermined sequence among the sorting outputs of the first sorting output set is used.

Preferably, several sorting runs are carried out for the articles of the first article type. As a result, the sorting system needs to have fewer sorting outputs for items of the first item type to be sorted than these items have different sorting feature values. Because fewer sorting outputs are required, it is possible to make the sorting system smaller, so that the sorting system requires less floor space ("footprint").

It is also possible to sort the articles of the second article type in two sort runs according to this value order. However, it is also possible to divide in advance the possible sorting feature values into groups, so that each group consists of at least one sorting feature value. Each group is assigned at least one sort output to the second sort output set. In a sorting run, the articles of the second article type are distributed to the sorting outputs of the second sorting exit set such that each article is discharged in the sorting exit associated with the sorting feature value or the group of that article.

In one embodiment, the same measuring device for both an item of the first item type and for an item of the second item type can determine what value the sorting feature for this item assumes. In another embodiment, a first measuring device supplies the determined sorting feature value at least for each article of the first article type. A second measuring device supplies the ascertained sorting feature value at least for each article of the second article type. From the determination results of both measuring devices, a determined sorting feature value is formed for each object.

In one embodiment, a further transport device from the second transport device leads to a junction in the first discharge device. Objects of the second article type can be transported to the first discharge device via this further transport device.

In a further development of this embodiment, the items to be sorted are divided in advance into items of the first item type and items of the second item type. First, the sorting system then sorts all the items of one item type and then all the items of the other item type, not the items mixed. This embodiment with the division saves the need to have to mix in the confluence objects of two types of objects regulated ("merging").

In one embodiment, both the first transport device and the second transport device transport the objects to be sorted so that each article is permanently grasped during transport. As a result, during sorting, for each time point and for each item, the location in the sorting system at which this item is located at that time can be predicted. For example, a sequence of endless conveyor belts transports the objects without a slip point.

In one embodiment, each item to be sorted extends in each one item level. Each object is transported in an upright position, ie with a vertical object plane. At any point during transport, two endless conveyor belts clamp the object between them and transport it.

In one embodiment, each item to be sorted is provided with characters. The step of determining the sorting feature value of an item to be sorted comprises the step of determining at least some of these characters. The Signs on an object indicate z. A destination to which the item is to be transported, or describe a property of that item or together form an identifier of an item.

In another embodiment, several classes of objects are given. Each class is a sorting feature value. The step of determining the sorting feature value of an item to be sorted comprises the step of determining to which class that item belongs.

Fig. 1

die Sortieranlage des Ausführungsbeispiels schematisch in Draufsicht.

In the following the invention will be described with reference to an embodiment. Showing:

Fig. 1

the sorting system of the embodiment schematically in plan view.

In the exemplary embodiment, the invention is used to sort flat mail items (standard letters, large letters, magazines, and possibly flat packets). Each item of mail is provided either with an identification of the destination to which this item of mail is to be transported. This marking includes z. For example, the name of a recipient and a postal address (street and house number or PO box number or parcel compartment number and postal code or ZIP code and location) or a determination of a location on the earth's surface by specifying geographic coordinates. It is also possible that a plurality of similar and non-addressed mail items as well as an address list are transported or transmitted to a sorting system and the sorting system prints each not yet addressed mail item, each with an address from the address list.

Each mail item extends in an article plane and has a length, a height, and a thickness. The thickness is the dimension perpendicular to the object plane.

In the exemplary embodiment, a distinction is made between two types of postal items, namely standard letters (in the USA: "letters") and large letters (in the USA: "flats"). The large letters function as the items of the first item type to be sorted, the standard letters as the items of the second item type to be sorted. If the maximum dimension of an article is below a length barrier, the thickness is below a thickness barrier, and in one embodiment the weight is below a weight barrier, then a mailpiece is processed as a standard letter, otherwise as a large letter.

• mindestens eine Zuführ-Einrichtung ZE ("feeder") mit einem Vereinzeler Ver ("singulator"),
• zwei Strichmuster-Lesegeräte ("bar code scanner") BCS.1, BCS.2,
• zwei Kameras Ka.1, Ka.2,
• eine datenverarbeitende Bildauswerteeinheit (BAE),
• ein System von Transport-Einrichtungen mit einer ersten Transport-Einrichtung TE.1, einer zweiten Transport-Einrichtung TE.2 und einer weiteren Transport-Einrichtung TE.w,
• eine erste Ausschleus-Einrichtung Aus.1 für Großbriefe,
• eine zweite Ausschleus-Einrichtung Aus.2 für Standardbriefe,
• eine Menge SM.1 von Großbrief-Sortierausgängen,
• eine Menge SM.2 von Standardbrief-Sortierausgängen,
• einen Standardbrief-Drucker Dr.2,
• einen Großbrief-Drucker Dr.1,
• eine datenverarbeitende Auswahleinheit AE,
• eine datenverarbeitende Steuereinheit SE,
• einen nicht gezeigten Großbrief-Sonder-Sortierausgang,
• in einer Ausführungsform einen nicht gezeigten Standardbrief-Sonder-Sortierausgang.

The sorting system comprises in the exemplary embodiment the following components, which are shown schematically in FIG. 1:

• at least one feeding device ZE ("feeder") with a separator Ver ("singulator"),
• two bar code scanners BCS.1, BCS.2,
• two cameras Ka.1, Ka.2,
• a data processing image evaluation unit (BAE),
• a system of transport facilities with a first transport device TE.1, a second transport device TE.2 and a further transport device TE.w,
• a first rejection facility Aus.1 for large letters,
• a second rejection facility Aus.2 for standard letters,
• a set SM.1 of large letter sorting outputs,
• a lot of SM.2 standard letter sorting outputs,
• a standard letter printer Dr.2,
• a large letter printer Dr.1,
• a data processing selection unit AE,
• a data processing control unit SE,
• a large letter special sorting output, not shown,
• in one embodiment, a standard letter special sorting exit, not shown.

Several arrows indicate in FIG. 1 the respective transport direction into which a component of the sorting system transports mailpieces. In the exemplary embodiment, the two transport devices TE.1, TE.2, the further transport device TE.w and the two outward transfer devices Aus.1, Aus.2 always transport the mailpieces that are respectively fed into the same transport direction. In the exemplary embodiment, each item of mail is transported upright and without slippage and thereby always clamped between each two endless conveyor belts. The mailpieces are thus transported by a shroud conveyor ("pinch belt conveyor system").

A stack St of mail items is sent to the feeder ZE. The separator Ver singles the flat mail items of the stack St. A stream of upright transported mail leaves the separator Ver dergestalt that between two consecutive mail a distance ("gap") occurs and the longitudinal axis of the mailpiece is arranged horizontally ,

In one embodiment, the sorting system has a universal feeder ZE with a universal separator Ver, which is able to separate both types of mail items. Fig. 1 shows this embodiment. In another embodiment, two different feeding devices operate in parallel. A standard letter feeder is able to separate standard letters with a higher throughput rate and to separate no large letters for it. A large letter feeder is able to separate large letters and standard letters, but with a lower throughput rate.

The two bar code scanners BCS.1, BCS.2 check whether a mail item has already been provided with a bar code or not. This bar pattern was printed in a previous sorting process. Such a bar pattern is either an encoding of a sort feature value (here: a destination mark). or an encoding of a unique identifier for the mailpiece. If a bar pattern exists, the bar pattern is decoded. A deciphered encoding of a destination mark provides the sort feature value. Thus, the sorting feature value is determined and will not be determined again. This sorting feature value determined by the decoding is used in the further course of the sorting. On the other hand, if the mail item is provided with a unique identifier, this means that the sorting feature value has previously been determined "off-line" and the mail item subsequently passes through the sorting system again. In a data memory, the unique identifier is stored in connection with the determined sorting feature value. A query with the unique identifier is directed to this database. In response to the search query, the stored sorting feature value is delivered. This delivered sorting feature value is used as the sorting feature value of the mailing in further sorting.

Each mail item is transported upright between the two cameras Ka.1, Ka.2. The cameras Ka.1, Ka.2 generate from each surface of the flat mail each a computer-analyzable image. One of these images shows the destination marking of the item of mail. Initially, the image evaluation unit BAE automatically tries to decipher this target point identification by means of "optical character recognition" (OCR). This automatic detection requires computing time. If this is not successful, an attempt is made to decipher the destination point identification by means of "video coding". The image of the mail item which shows the destination point identification is displayed on a screen device. An editor reads the destination mark in the displayed image and at least partially enters it into a data collection device, e.g. B. by means of a keyboard or by voice. In one embodiment, the image evaluation unit BAE then attempts, on the basis of the input, the Address in a second attempt now automatically and completely by OCR to decipher ("OCR retry").

A distinction is made between "on-line video coding" and "offline video coding". In "on-line video coding", the mail item remains in the system of transport facilities while the destination tag is read and entered. Preferably, the mail item is also permanently transported in the collection period, so that it is always known where the item of mail is currently located and thus the detection result of the correct mail item can be assigned. It is not absolutely necessary to provide the mailpiece with an individual identifier ("identifier").

If a detection does not succeed until a predetermined point in time, the item of mail is ejected and thus removed from the processing operation. Only after the destination marking of the temporarily stored postal item has been deciphered, the item of mail is returned to the processing operation, namely by means of the feeder ZE. This procedure is called "off-line video coding".

The image evaluation unit BAE also determines whether a mailpiece is a standard letter or a large letter. For this purpose, the image evaluation unit BAE evaluates an image of the mailpiece and determines the length and height of the mailpiece. It is possible that the mail item is additionally weighed and the decision additionally depends on the weight. In one embodiment, in addition, the thickness of each mail item is measured. Which physical parameters are actually measured depends on the definition of a standard letter and on the realized design of the sorting plant and in particular the sorting outputs. The cameras Ka.1, Ka.2 are arranged downstream of the feeding device ZE, so that the image evaluating unit BAE evaluates images of isolated mailpieces, which leads to much better results than with still stacked mailpieces. The Determining whether a postal item is a large letter or a standard letter is in any case when the item reaches the switch W.1.

The embodiment with two cameras Ka.1, Ka.2 opposite saves the necessity of having to orient the mailpieces to be sorted in advance. That surface of the upright transported postal item, which shows the destination point marking, can - as seen in the transport direction - to the left or to the right. In a modification, a camera is saved. The sorting system has only a single camera. This requires prior orientation of the mailpieces so that the surface with the destination mark always points to that single camera.

The selection unit AE automatically selects a sorting output for each mail item to be sorted, depending on the ascertained sorting feature value (in this case: on the destination marking). The selection of a sorting output for a mailing presupposes that the sorting feature value (here: destination marking) of the mailpiece has been determined. The selection unit AE uses a computer-evaluable sorting plan, which assigns a sorting output to each occurring sorting feature value. If the mailpiece is a standard letter, then the selection unit AE selects a standard letter sorting output, otherwise a large letter sorting output. Exceptions to this are described. In one embodiment, the selection unit AE applies a standard letter sorting plan for standard letters and a large letter sorting plan for large letters. For each sorting feature value occurring, the standard letter sorting plan assigns a sorting output of the standard letter sorting output set SM.2, and the large-letter sorting plan assigns a sorting output of the large-letter sorting output set SM.1.

If the destination point identification could not be determined in time, the selection unit AE selects a special sorting output out. In one embodiment, misaligned mailpieces are rejected, properly oriented, and returned to the correct orientation.

In the exemplary embodiment, the standard letter sorting outputs are distributed over two levels. Approximately 60 to 80 standard letter sorting exits are arranged in each level so that the sorting system has a total of approximately 120 to 160 standard letter sorting outputs. Each standard letter sorting exit is designed as a tray and can accommodate a stack of upright standard letters. This stack grows with each additional standard letter removed. The standard letter sorting exits are so small that they can only accept standard letters, but no large letters. As a result, the standard letter sorting outputs occupy significantly less footprint than a set of universal sorting outputs. The dimensions of the standard letter sorting exits determine which mailpieces to be sorted are treated as standard letters and which as large letters.

In a preferred embodiment, which is indicated in Fig. 1, the standard letter sorting outputs are arranged in two superimposed rows. In another embodiment, even two rows of standard letter sorting exits are arranged "back to back" in each plane so that one half of the standard letter sorting exits is accessible from one side and the other half is accessible from the other side.

Each large letter sorting output is capable of receiving a plurality of mailpieces, in particular each large letter up to a predetermined maximum size and also each standard letter. A large letter sorting exit therefore occupies more space than a standard letter sorting exit. The z. B. 45 to 70 large letter sorting exits are preferably arranged in a single plane, in such a way that they are well and ergonomically accessible from the outside.

In one embodiment, a large letter sorting exit is also designed as a compartment and is able to receive a stack of flat mailpieces. In another embodiment, a large letter sorting exit comprises an exchangeable container and a parking space for such a container. In this container, a stack of lying mail items is generated in the course of sorting. The selection unit AE selects a large letter sorting output by selecting a discharge position above this container or also next to this container. The mail item is transported to this selected ejection position and then released. The released mail item slides from this ejection position from the top into the container which is open at the top or is pushed laterally into the container. The container is either on a stationary support surface below the discharge position or on a certain portion of a horizontal conveyor belt, which removes filled containers. In one embodiment, empty containers are transported on this horizontal conveyor belt.

Each Ausschleuseinrichtung Aus.1, Aus.2 has in the exemplary embodiment, a main transport path and one ejection component per sorting output, z. B. a reject switch. The reject component of a selected sort output directs a mail item from the main transport path into that selected sort output.

The system of transport facilities and the discharge facilities Aus.1, Aus.2 comprise a system of endless conveyor belts and other conveyor elements. Each endless conveyor belt is guided around at least two rollers or shafts, which are rotatable about vertical axes of rotation. A roll is driven under control. A mail item is clamped between each two endless conveyor belts and transported upright. At least one light barrier measures whether a light beam from the light barrier of a mail item is interrupted or not. This light beam is transmitted through a gap between two endless conveyor belts. The signals of the at least one light barrier and the known or measured transport speed can be used to determine the current position of each mail item at any time.

Downstream of the feeding device ZE or the feeding devices, first the first transport device TE.1 is arranged. In the case of several parallel feeding devices, all the feeding devices open into the first conveying device TE.1. The first transport device TE.1 transports both the isolated large letters and the occasional standard letters between the two cameras Ka.1, Ka.2 through to the entrance of the switch W.1. At the latest when the item of mail has reached the switch W.1, the automatic decision is made as to whether the item of mail is a standard letter or a large letter. The second transport device TE.2 for standard letters begins in one output of the switch W.1, and the large letter reject device Aus.1 for large letters begins in the other output. The switch W.1 redirects a standard letter to the second transport device TE.2, a large letter to the large letter reject device Aus.2. A large letter is led around in the embodiment around a large role, sitting on a vertical shaft, and fed by this direction reversal by 180 ° in the large letter Ausschleuseinrichtung Aus.1.

In one embodiment, when a mail item has reached a rejection device Aus.1, Aus.2, it must be clear in which sorting output this mailpiece is to be ejected. Therefore, the target point label of a large letter must be deciphered when the large letter has reached the switch W.1. For a standard letter, more time is available to determine the sorting feature value, namely at least the time span in which the standard letter is along the second transport device TE.2 is transported.

The selection unit AE then selects a large letter sorting output for a large letter if the measurement result (here: the deciphered target point marking) is available when the large letter has reached the switch W.1, otherwise a special sorting output. Which large letter sorting output the selection unit AE selects depends on the deciphering result. The destination marking of the item of mail that is ejected into or into a special sorting exit is then deciphered by "off-line video coding", and these items of mail are later returned to the sorting system.

In a preferred embodiment, it suffices if the sorting feature value of a mailpiece is available in good time before the mailpiece has reached the rejection component of that sorting output into which the mailpiece is to be ejected. In this embodiment, therefore, more time is available.

The switch W.1 deflects a standard letter into the second transport device TE.2. This second transport device TE.2 transports exclusively standard letters and can therefore be cut to standard letters, especially in the design of the conveyor belts, rollers and other conveying elements. The second transport device TE.2 is additionally designed as a delay line ("delay line") and designed in a meandering manner, cf. Fig. 1. The delay line transports a standard letter over a longer period of time permanently taken. In order to evaluate the destination point marking of a standard letter, the entire transport path from the cameras Ka.1, Ka.2 to the standard letter rejection device Aus.2 is available. The meander-shaped configuration causes a long transport time at a constant transport speed and small footprint. The destination point marking of a standard letter must be in one Embodiment be deciphered when the standard letter reaches the standard letter-Ausschleus device Aus.2. Because of the longer transport time, this is achieved for almost all standard letters. In one embodiment, the sorting system still has a special sorting output for standard letters whose destination point identification could not be decoded in a timely manner.

In the preferred embodiment, to determine the sorting feature value, there is still time available in which the standard letter is transported by the standard letter rejection device Aus.2.

The selection unit AE selects a standard letter sorting output or the special sorting output. The standard letter rejection facility Aus.1 ejects the standard letter into the selected standard letter sorting exit. This is done in succession for each standard letter so that a stack of upright standard letters is generated in each standard letter sorting exit.

The risk that a large letter will be damaged during transport through the sorting system, is - with the same transport route on the same transport device at the same transport speed - significantly greater than the risk that a standard letter is damaged. The invention meets this marginal condition by first transporting all mailpieces, that is to say standard letters and large letters, via the first transport device TE.1 and only the standard letters being additionally transported via the second transport device TE.2.

The sorting system according to the solution can be used both for the disposal sorting and for the incoming sorting. Each mail item is first subjected to a departure sorting on its way from the place of delivery to the destination point and then to an incoming sorting. Outbound sorting sorts all mail items that are within a specific one Period in the area of responsibility of a sorting center. Each sorting center forms a sorting destination when the goods are sorted. All mail items with destination points in the jurisdiction of a sorting center will be transported to the destination sorting center after departure sorting.

In this destination sorting center an input sorting is performed. The mailpieces are z. B. distributed to the various delivery areas, which is performed at this input sorting. It is also possible to specify an order among the destination points in this delivery area for each delivery area and to additionally sort the items of mail after the input sorting to this order ("delivery sequence"). There are significantly more sorting destinations in incoming sorting and subsequent sorting than in sorting outgoing goods.

In one embodiment, the sorting system according to the invention carries out a single sorting pass for all mailpieces to be sorted in the case of outgoing sorting and incoming sorting. This is possible if there are fewer sorting destinations than the sorting system has large letter sorting outputs and also less sorting destinations than the sorting system has standard letter sorting outputs. In order sorting, on the other hand, there are more sorting destinations than the sorting system has large letter sorting outputs. Therefore, the sorting system performs at least for the large letters two or even three sorting runs to bring the large letters in an order. After the last sorting run, a stack of sorted large letters has been generated in each large letter sorting output. The large letters with the same sorting feature value ("destination mark") occur in this stack immediately after one another. The sequence in which large letters with different sorting feature values occur in this stack depends on a predetermined order among sorting feature values.

One possible sorting method for the order sorting presupposes that the large letter sorting system is emptied after each but the last sorting pass in a predetermined sequence ("refeed sequence"). The mail items from the large letter sorting outputs are fed back into the feed device ZE in a predetermined feed order. For example, a "radix sort" is performed, in which two sorting runs are carried out successively and a "refeed sequence" is observed.

Preferably, the sorting system has more standard letter sorting outputs than large letter sorting outputs. In one embodiment, there are at least as many standard letter sorting outputs as there are different sorting feature values for a sorting task. Therefore, the standard letters are distributed to the standard letter sorting outputs in a single sort run. Preferably, a sorting run for large letters and standard letters is performed and a subsequent second sorting run only for the large letters. This second sorting run can be carried out overlapping in time with a first sorting pass for further mailpieces.

In another embodiment, two sorting runs are also carried out for the standard letters. It is possible to use a different sorting algorithm for the standard letters than for the large letters, eg. Eg "tree sort". In the tree sort, the set of sorting feature values occurring is broken down into groups so that each sorting feature value belongs to exactly one group. Each group is assigned a sorting output. In the first sorting pass, the standard letters are divided among the groups by the selection unit AE for a standard letter selecting the standard letter sorting output assigned to the grouping of the sorting feature value. In the second sorting run, the mail items of a group are successively distributed to the sorting outputs. A certain feeding order after the first sorting cycle does not need to be kept.

The sorting system can be adapted to these different sorting tasks solely by applying different sorting plans, ie by pure software changes. It is not necessary to change the sorting system hardware.

As just stated, each mail item passes through a sorting system twice, namely once for sorting the outgoing goods and once for the incoming sorting. It is possible for a mail item to pass through the same sorting system twice in each case. In one embodiment, a machine-readable encoding for the deciphered destination marking is printed on each mail item in the first sorting run, z. B. in the form of a bar pattern ("sorting bar code"). The solution according to the sorting system has a printer Dr.1, which prints a bar pattern on a large letter, and another printer Dr.2, which prints a bar pattern on a standard letter. This embodiment requires that the deciphering result be present before a large letter reaches the printer Dr.1 and a standard letter reaches the printer Dr.2. In a deviation, the sorting system has only one printer Dr.2 for standard letters. A large letter is identified by the values of several optically detectable features. Such a method has become known under the name "Fingerprint" or "Virtual ID".

In a further development of this embodiment, each printer Dr.1, Dr.2 can also print a unique identifier ("identifier bar code") on a mailpiece instead of a "sorting bar code" for the ascertained sorting feature value. If a mail item reaches a printer Dr.1, Dr.2, without the sorting feature value of this mail item being present at this time, the printer Dr.1, Dr.2 prints a unique identifier on the mailpiece , The mail item is discharged into a special sorting output. The sorting feature value (here: destination marking) is determined by "off-line video coding". In a database, this sorting feature value is combined with the identifier stored. In a subsequent sorting run, a bar pattern reading device BCS.1, BCS.2 reads the identifier, and the stored sorting feature value is determined by a search query and used in this subsequent sorting run.

In a further embodiment, the sorting system has only a single printer, which is arranged upstream of the switch W.1. The sorting feature value of a mail item to be sorted is only available in good time if the sorting feature value is determined when this mail item reaches this one printer.

The switch W.2 is designed to leave a standard letter either in the second transport device TE.2 or to direct it into the further transport device TE.w. The further transport device TE.w leads to Großbrief-Ausschleus-device Aus.1 and flows into the Einmündungstelle a so in the Großbrief-Ausschleus device Aus.1 or in the first transport device TE.1 that the other Transport device TE.w transported a standard letter upstream of the first large letter sorting output back to the first transport device TE.1.

• Nur die Großbrief-Ausschleus-Einrichtung Aus.1 vermag eine Postsendung in einen Sonder-Sortierausgang auszuschleusen, aber nicht die Standardbrief-Ausschleus-Einrichtung Aus.2. Falls die Zustellpunkt-Kennzeichnung eines Standardbriefs also nicht rechtzeitig entziffert werden kann, so wird dieser Standardbrief über die weitere Transport-Einrichtung TE.w zurück zur Großbrief-Ausschleus-Einrichtung Aus.1 transportiert.
• Einigen oder sogar allen Sortiermerkmals-Werten ist lediglich jeweils ein Großbrief-Sortierausgang zugeordnet, aber kein Standardbrief-Sortierausgang. Beispielsweise stehen einige oder sogar alle Standardbrief-Sortierausgängen zeitweise nicht zur Verfügung, weil sie gewartet oder repariert werden oder für eine andere Sortieraufgabe verwendet werden. In mindestens einem Großbrief-Sortierausgang wird dann mindestens ein Stapel erzeugt, der gemischt aus Großbriefen und Standardbriefen besteht.

This further transport device TE.w is z. For example, it is used for the following transport tasks:

• Only the large letter rejection facility Aus.1 is able to discharge a mail item into a special sorting output, but not the standard letter rejection facility Aus.2. If the delivery point marking of a standard letter can not be decoded in time, then this standard letter is transported via the further transport device TE.w back to the large letter rejection device Aus.1.
• Some or even all of the sorting feature values are only associated with one large letter sorting output, but no standard letter sorting output. For example, there are some or even all standard letter sorting outputs temporarily unavailable because they are being serviced, repaired or used for another sorting task. At least one stack is then generated in at least one large letter sorting output, which consists of mixed large letters and standard letters.

In one embodiment, the mailpieces are separated in advance for large letters and standard letters. First, the large letters go through the sorting system and then the standard letters - or vice versa. This embodiment makes it possible to use the further transport device TE.w as described above without having to produce a stream of spaced mailpieces in the point of interchange, which consists of mixed large letters and standard letters ("merging").

Also, to switch the sorting system from the configuration described above to the configuration just described, only sorting plans are to be adjusted. The hardware of the sorting system does not need to be changed. LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS reference numeral importance AE Selection unit, automatically selects a sorting output for each mail item necessary.1 Outfeed facility for large letters, feeds the large letter sorting exits Aus.2 Outfeed facility for standard letters, loads the standard letter sorting exits BAE image evaluation BCS.1, BCs.2 Bar code spanner Dr.1 Printer which prints the large letters dr.2 Printer which prints the standard letters One Junction in which the further transport device TE.w opens into the large letter rejection device Aus.1 Ka.1, Ka.2 Cameras, each of which generates a computer-analyzable image of a mailpiece SE Control unit, controls, among other things, the switches W.1, W.2 and the Ausschleus facilities Aus.1, Aus.2 on SM.1 Amount of standard letter sorting outputs, distributed over several levels SM.2 Amount of large letter sorting exits arranged in one level St Stack of large letters to be singled and standard letters TE.1 first transport device, transported large letters and standard letters, leads from the feeder ZE to the switch W.1 TE.2 second transport device, transports only standard letters, leads from the switch W.1 to the second outfeed device Aus.2 TE.w further transport device, leads from the second transport device TE.2 to the first outfeed device Aus.1 Ver Singulator W.1 Switch, which steers a mail item either in the first discharge device Aus.1 or in the second transport device TE.2 W.2 Switch that either leaves a mail item in the second transport device TE.2 or diverts it into the further transport device TE.w. ZE Feeder with the singler Ver

Claims (13)

1. Sorting installation for sorting articles in accordance with a prescribed sorting feature,
   wherein each article to be sorted belongs to either a first article kind or a second article kind,
   wherein the sorting installation comprises

   - a measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE),

   - a data-processing selection unit (AE),

   - a first transport device (TE.1),

   - a second transport device (TE.2),

   - a separating filter (W.1) having a first output and a second output,

   - a first outward-transfer device (Aus.1),

   - a second outward-transfer device (Aus.2),

   - a first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs and

   - a second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs,

   each sorting output of the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs is able to accommodate at least one article of the first article kind in each case,
   each sorting output of the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs is able to accommodate at least one article of the second article kind in each case,
   the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1) starts at the first output of the separating filter (W.1) and the second transport device (TE.2) starts at the second output of the separating filter (W.1),
   the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) is so designed as to automatically measure or otherwise determine the value which is assumed by the sorting feature for an article to be sorted,
   the selection unit (AE) is so configured as to select, as a function of the sorting feature value of the article, a respective sorting output for each article to be sorted,
   the first transport device (TE.1) is so designed as to transport each article to be sorted to the separating filter (W.1),
   the second transport device (TE.2) is so designed as to transport each article to be sorted belonging to the second article kind from the separating filter (W.1) to the second outward-transfer device (Aus.2),
   each outward-transfer device (Aus.1, Aus.2) is so designed that an article which is to be sorted and has been transported to this outward-transfer device (Aus.1, Aus.2)

   - is transported to the selected sorting output and

   - is transferred out into said selected sorting output, the sorting installation is so designed as to perform steps for each article to be sorted, wherein

   - the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) determines the value assumed by the sorting feature for this article,

   - the measuring device establishes whether the article belongs to the first article kind or the second article kind, and

   - the first transport device (TE.1) transports the article to the separating filter (W.1),

   the sorting installation is moreover so designed as to perform steps for each article to be sorted belonging to the first article kind, wherein

   - if the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) has determined the sorting feature value in timely fashion,

   - the selection unit (AE) selects a sorting output of the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs as a function of the sorting feature value which has been determined,

   - the separating filter (W.1) forwards the article to the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1) and

   - the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1) transfers the article out into the selected sorting output,

   the sorting installation is moreover so designed as to perform steps for each article to be sorted belonging to the second article kind, wherein

   - the second transport device (TE.2) transports the article onwards,

   - if the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) has determined the sorting feature value in timely fashion, the selection unit (AE) selects a sorting output as a function of the sorting feature value which has been determined,

   - if the selected sorting output belongs to the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs,

   - the second transport device (TE.2) transports the article to the second outward-transfer device (Aus.2) and

   - the second outward-transfer device (Aus.2) transfers the article out into the selected sorting output.
2. Sorting installation according to claim 1,
   characterised in that
   the sorting installation is so designed that the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) determines the sorting feature value of an article of the first article kind in timely fashion at least
   if the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) has determined the sorting feature value of this article at the latest when the article reaches the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1), and
   the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) determines the sorting feature value of an article of the second article kind in timely fashion at least
   if the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) has determined the sorting feature value at the latest
   when the article reaches the second outward-transfer device (Aus.2).
3. The sorting installation as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2,
   characterised in that
   the sorting installation is so designed that the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) has determined the sorting feature value of an article in timely fashion at least
   if the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) has determined the sorting feature value sufficiently early
   that the selection unit (AE) is able to select the sorting output
   before the respective outward-transfer device (Aus.1, Aus.2) has completed the transport of this article to this selected sorting output.
4. The sorting installation as claimed in one of the claims 1 to 3,
   characterised in that
   the sorting installation additionally comprises at least one special sorting output, and
   the sorting installation is designed such that an article to be sorted is transferred out into a special sorting output if the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) has not determined its sorting feature value in timely fashion.
5. Sorting installation according to one of the claims 1 to 4,
   characterised in that
   the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs has fewer sorting outputs than the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs.
6. Sorting installation according to one of the claims 1 to 5,
   characterised in that
   the sorting installation has a further transport device (TE.W),
   said further transport device (TE.W) is so designed as to transport an article to be sorted from the second transport device (TE.2) to the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1), at least one sorting output of the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs is able to accommodate at least one article of the second article kind,
   the sorting installation can be operated in a mode in which the sorting installation is so designed as to perform the steps wherein

   - in respect of an article of the second article kind the selection unit (AE) selects either a sorting output of the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs or a sorting output which belongs to the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs and is suitable for accommodating this article of the second article kind,

   - if the selection unit (AE) has selected a sorting output of the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs for an article to be sorted belonging to the second article kind, the sorting installation

   - transports the article from the first transport device (TE.1), the second transport device (TE.2) and the further transport device (TE.W) to the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1) and

   - the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1) transfers the article out into the selected sorting output.
7. Sorting installation according to claim 6,
   characterised in that
   the sorting installation has a special sorting output and the sorting installation is so designed that

   - if the measuring device (Ka.1, Ka.2, BAE) has not determined the sorting feature value of an article of the second article kind in timely fashion,

   - the article is transported to the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1) via the further transport device (TE.w) and

   - is transferred out into a special sorting output by means of the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1).
8. Sorting installation according to one of the claims 1 to 7,
   characterised in that
   every sorting output of the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs is able to accommodate any article to be sorted belonging to the first article kind and any article to be sorted belonging to the second article kind, and every sorting output of the second set of articles (SM.2) is able to accommodate any article to be sorted belonging to the second article kind.
9. Sorting installation according to one of the claims 1 to 8,
   characterised in that
   a sequence is prescribed in respect of the sorting feature values that occur, and
   the sorting installation is moreover so designed as to create, in the selectable sorting outputs of the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs, a series of the articles which are to be sorted and belong to the second article kind, such that
   the sequence of the articles in this series corresponds to the prescribed value sequence,
   wherein the sorting installation generates a series of articles, sorted according to the value sequence, in each selectable sorting output of the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs.
10. Sorting installation according to one of the claims 1 to 9,
    characterised in that
    the sorting outputs of the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs
    are distributed over at least two levels.
11. Sorting method for sorting a plurality of articles in accordance with a prescribed sorting feature,
    wherein each article to be sorted belongs to either a first article kind or a second article kind,
    a sorting installation is used for the purpose of sorting, said sorting installation comprises

    - a first transport device (TE.1),

    - a second transport device (TE.2),

    - a separating filter (W.1) having at least two outputs,

    - a first outward-transfer device (Aus.1),

    - a second outward-transfer device (Aus.2),

    - a first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs,

    - a second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs,

    wherein the method comprises the following steps in respect of every article to be sorted:

    - measuring or otherwise determining the value assumed by the prescribed sorting feature for this article,

    - measuring or otherwise determining whether the article belongs to the first article kind or the second article kind, and

    - transporting the article to the separating filter (W.1) by means of the first transport device (TE.1),

    the following steps are additionally performed for each article of the first article kind:

    - directing the article into the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1) by means of the separating filter (W.1),

    - if the sorting feature value for the article has been determined in timely fashion, automatically selecting a sorting output from the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs as a function of the sorting feature value, and

    - transferring the article out into the selected sorting output of the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs by means of the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1), and

    the following steps are additionally performed for each article of the second article kind:

    - redirecting the article into the second transport device (TE.2) by means of the separating filter (W.1),

    - transporting the article onwards by means of the second transport device (TE.2), and

    - if the sorting feature value for the article has been determined in timely fashion, selecting a sorting output as a function of the sorting feature value which has been determined, and

    additionally for every article of the second article kind, if a sorting output of the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs has been selected for this article,

    - transporting the article to the second outward-transfer device (Aus.2) by means of the second transport device (TE.2), and

    - transferring the article out into the selected sorting output of the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs by means of the second outward-transfer device (Aus.2).
12. Sorting method according to claim 11,
    characterised in that

    - the sorting installation being used has a further transport device (TE.w),

    - the sorting installation being used is switched at least once into an isolation mode and at least once into a mixing mode,

    - in the isolation mode, if the sorting feature value is determined in timely fashion, a sorting output of the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs is always selected for each article of the second article kind, and

    - in the mixing mode, if the sorting feature value is determined in timely fashion, either a sorting output of the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs or a sorting output of the second set (SM.2) of sorting outputs is selected for each article of the second article kind, and

    in the mixing mode, if a sorting output of the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs is selected for an article to be sorted,

    - the article of the second article kind is transported by means of the second transport device (TE.2) and the further transport device (TE.w) to the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1), and

    - is transferred out into the selected sorting output of the first set (SM1) of sorting outputs by the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1).
13. Sorting method according to claim 11 or claim 12, characterised in that

    - if a sorting output of the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs has been selected for an article of the second article kind,

    - the article is transported to the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1) by means of the second transport device (TE.2), and

    - the first outward-transfer device (Aus.1) transfers the article out into the selected sorting output of the first set (SM.1) of sorting outputs.

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