Si Handling Systems, Inc.

Phillip N Ross

Robert A Porter

David A Clark

James Werkheiser

A sortation and sequencing system for sorting a plurality of different items into discrete orders and putting the items into a predetermined sequence within each discrete order or group of orders. The system includes an induction station for accepting items in random succession, and a sensor at the induction station for sensing an identifying characteristic unique to each item and for generating tracking signals uniquely corresponding to the items for tracking the items through the system. A controller receives the tracking signals and generates sort command and sequence command signals which are in part responsive to the tracking signals. A sorter receives the items from the induction station and directs individual items to selected ones of a plurality of sort locations, each sort location corresponding to an individual order or group of orders, in response to sort command signals from the controller. A sequencer associated with each sort location receives sorted items from the sorter and discharges the items in a preselected sequence at a discharge location in response to the sequence control signals.

Sortation and sequencing system

An order selection system is disclosed together with a method of operating the system for retrieving multiple types of items stored in preselected storage locations and delivering retrieved items in an orderly sequence to a plurality of packing stations in accordance with the specific requirements of different orders. The order selection system comprises: a dispenser; a conveyor; a dispensing control system; a sorter; a plurality of stacking devices; and identifying means to identify the end of each order. The steps in the method of operating the system are: arranging the multiple types of items in the preselected storage locations; determining the requirements of orders to be filled; dispensing the items stored in the preselected storage locations in an alternating order sequence in accordance with the requirements of sequential orders; receiving the dispensed items on the conveyor in the alternating order sequence; transporting the dispensed items on the conveyor toward the packing stations; sorting the items so as to divert every other item toward separate packing stations; stacking the sorted items into discrete continuous stacks conforming with the specific requirements of the orders; and identifying the end of each order.

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Hellertown, PA, United States of America

Phillip N Ross