Multi-stage sorting process with batch sequencing

Abstract

In a multi-stage sorting method, before a first sorting pass, containers can be placed with unsorted items in storage points of an empty store. Storage areas are determined for each pass. The areas are arranged orthogonal to one another. The containers are arbitrarily distributed within an area. In each sorting pass, one container from each area is retrieved as part of a batch group. The retrieval sequence is arbitrary in the first pass, and uses a sorting algorithm in subsequent passes. The degree of sorting of the mail items in the containers is increased in a sorting operation, storing positions are empty points generated by the retrieval or storage points with empty containers corresponding to a retrieval position, and the storing sequence is on a process-contingent random basis corresponding to an emptying of sorting end points. These process steps are repeated for as many batches as necessary to process a total volume of items.