Sorting conveyor and sorting system

Abstract

The present application relates to a kind of sorting transport line and sorting transport system, involve express sorting technical field, including line body and multiple sorting units, line body is vertically arranged and forms closed loop, multiple sorting units are connected head to tail, and can run along line body;Sorting unit includes main frame and sorting device connected on main frame;Sorting device includes first sorting unit and second sorting unit of interval superposition, first sorting unit is compared with second sorting unit away from line body, its beneficial effect is in the premise that sorting transport line floor area and production cost do not increase significantly, the advantage of narrow band machine and cross band is integrated, in the premise that sorting machine floor area still remains smaller, also can make sorting machine obtain more grid, satisfy the sorting demand of express, better balance the problem of sorting machine cost, floor area and sorting efficiency mutual contradiction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of express sorting technology, and in particular to a sorting and transport line and a sorting and transport system. Background Technology

[0002] Today's express sorting centers are gradually becoming mechanized and intelligent, and manual sorting of express packages is being gradually replaced by mechanical sorting.

[0003] In the existing technology, the sorting machines used in express delivery sorting mainly include two types: linear narrow belt sorting machines and cross belt sorting machines.

[0004] Linear narrow-belt sorting machines have a vertical structure, which has the advantages of small footprint and relatively low cost. However, precisely because of this vertical structure, the usable sorting slots are often concentrated in the upper straight section of the machine, limiting the maximum number of slots that can be set up. This is not conducive to improving the efficiency of express sorting. Therefore, narrow-belt sorting machines are generally only suitable for small express stations, such as community-level express sorting centers.

[0005] Cross-belt systems have the advantage of having a large number of compartments, but they also occupy a large area and are relatively expensive. Therefore, they are generally only suitable for large express delivery stations, such as county-level express delivery stations, to carry out express delivery sorting work.

[0006] However, for some medium-sized express delivery stations, there are moderate requirements for the floor space and cost of sorting machines, which means that traditional narrow belt machines and cross belt machines cannot meet the requirements, forcing users to compromise on floor space, cost and sorting efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0007] (a) Technical problems to be solved

[0008] In view of the above-mentioned shortcomings and deficiencies of the prior art, the present invention provides a sorting and transportation line and a sorting and transportation system, which solves the technical problem that some medium-sized express delivery stations have moderate requirements for the floor space and cost of sorting machines, which means that traditional narrow belt machines and cross belt machines cannot meet the requirements.

[0009] (II) Technical Solution

[0010] To achieve the above objectives, the main technical solutions adopted by the present invention include:

[0011] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a sorting and transport line, including a line body and a plurality of sorting units, the line body being arranged vertically and forming a closed loop, the plurality of sorting units being connected end to end and capable of running along the line body; the sorting unit includes a main frame and a sorting device connected to the main frame; the sorting device includes a first sorting unit and a second sorting unit stacked at intervals, the first sorting unit being farther away from the line body than the second sorting unit.

[0012] In this technical solution, the sorting unit is set as a single-track multi-layer structure, that is, the sorting unit includes a first sorting unit and a second sorting unit arranged vertically. The two can independently sort express packages, and thus, through a single operation, the express sorting efficiency can be nearly doubled.

[0013] This invention integrates the advantages of narrow belt sorting machines and cross belt sorting machines without significantly increasing the floor space and production cost of the sorting and transportation line. It also enables the sorting machine to obtain more compartments while keeping the floor space of the sorting machine relatively small, thus meeting the sorting needs of express delivery. It effectively balances the conflicting issues of cost, floor space and sorting efficiency of the sorting machine.

[0014] Since the first sorting unit is farther away from the line than the second sorting unit, and there are no obstructions on the side of the first sorting unit that is away from the line, there will be enough space above the first sorting unit to accommodate taller packages, ensuring that taller packages can be sorted by the first sorting unit.

[0015] In one technical solution of the present invention, the first sorting unit and the second sorting unit each include at least one set of roller assemblies, and the roller assemblies are capable of running in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the closed loop; the outer side of the roller assemblies away from the center of the closed loop forms a sorting platform, and the adjacent sorting platforms corresponding to the first sorting unit are continuously arranged.

[0016] In this technical solution, since the adjacent sorting platforms formed by the first sorting unit are continuously set up, the adjacent sorting platforms can operate synchronously to form an integrated platform. Large express packages can be sorted through this integrated platform, while small express packages can be sorted through the second sorting unit. Therefore, this sorting and transportation line can classify and process the express packages transported by the sorting and transportation line, so that the utilization rate of the sorting platform matches the size of the express packages. This not only achieves energy saving, but also enables more accurate transportation of express packages to designated locations, thereby improving the sorting efficiency and sorting accuracy of the sorting machine.

[0017] In one technical solution of the present invention, the sorting and conveying line further includes a drive device that is driven and connected to the roller assembly. The drive device is an electric drive module or a mechanical drive module.

[0018] In this technical solution, the roller assembly is driven by a drive device. Both the electric drive module and the lever drive module enable the sorting platform to run in both forward and reverse directions. The electric drive module and the lever drive module can be set up together, or only the electric drive module or the lever drive module can be used as the drive device. The specific choice can be made flexibly by the relevant personnel.

[0019] In one technical solution of the present invention, the electric drive module includes a motor, the torque output end of which is driven to be connected to the torque input end of the corresponding roller assembly; the mechanical drive module includes a rotating shaft, a drive wheel, a clutch mechanism, and a transmission assembly, the clutch mechanism and transmission assembly being configured in multiple sets corresponding to the number of sorting unit groups stacked at intervals, the drive wheel, clutch mechanism, and transmission assembly being integrated on a single rotating shaft; the drive wheel is connected to the rotating shaft, the transmission assembly is capable of driving the torque input end connecting the rotating shaft and the sorting unit, and the clutch mechanism is capable of switching between a disconnected state (disconnecting the driving connection between the rotating shaft and the torque output end of the transmission assembly) and a engaged state (establishing the driving connection between the rotating shaft and the torque input end of the transmission assembly); the transmission assembly includes a first transmission wheel and a second transmission wheel that mesh with each other, the first transmission wheel being located on the rotating shaft, and the second transmission wheel being located at the torque input end of the corresponding sorting unit; the clutch mechanism is capable of disconnecting or engaging the linkage between the rotating shaft and the first transmission wheel; the axis of the rotating shaft extends vertically, and the rotation axis of the torque input end of the sorting unit extends horizontally.

[0020] In this technical solution, the motor is set as a servo motor, or a rotating roller assembly is driven by two motors with opposite driving directions;

[0021] The mechanical drive module uses the movement of the sorting unit on the line to make the drive wheel rotate by friction, which transmits the torque of the drive wheel to the shaft, and controls the drive connection between the shaft and the corresponding roller assembly through the clutch mechanism.

[0022] By leveraging the action of the sorting system running on the line, the drive wheel is rotated by friction. The torque of the drive wheel is transmitted to the shaft, and the drive connection between the shaft and the corresponding sorting unit is controlled by the clutch mechanism. This allows each sorting unit to run at the required time and for the required duration, improving the convenience of sorting units when performing express sorting operations.

[0023] The drive unit includes a rotating shaft, drive wheels, a clutch mechanism, and a transmission assembly. One drive unit contains one rotating shaft, and the number of sorting units, clutch mechanisms, and transmission assemblies are consistent. The clutch mechanism, transmission assembly, and drive wheels are all integrated on one rotating shaft. Compared with the prior art, since one drive unit can meet the needs of all vertically arranged sorting units to run in one direction for unidirectional express sorting operations, there is no problem of easy interference between drive units. It also greatly reduces the overall size of the drive unit, improves the structural compactness of the drive unit, and improves the structural compactness of the leverage sorting system.

[0024] This invention uses a single rotating shaft to carry the input torque from the drive wheel, and utilizes the state switching of the clutch mechanism to selectively transmit the torque of the rotating shaft to the torque input end of the corresponding transmission component, thereby achieving independent control of each sorting unit and improving the flexibility of the sorting unit when performing express sorting operations.

[0025] In one technical solution of the present invention, each set of sorting units stacked at intervals corresponds to two driving devices, which are located on both sides of the stacked sorting units to drive the sorting units to run in the forward or reverse direction.

[0026] In this technical solution, one drive unit is used to drive the sorting unit to rotate forward, and another drive unit is used to drive the sorting unit to rotate in reverse, so as to realize bidirectional sorting of the sorting unit and further improve the reliability of the sorting unit.

[0027] In one technical solution of the present invention, the clutch mechanism is configured as an electromagnetic clutch or a magnetic powder clutch; the clutch mechanism includes a fixed part, an electromagnetic part and a synchronizing sleeve, the fixed part is supported on the main frame, the electromagnetic part is supported on the fixed part, the electromagnetic part is linked with one of the first transmission wheel and the rotating shaft to operate synchronously, and the synchronizing sleeve is linked with the other of the first transmission wheel and the rotating shaft to operate synchronously. When the electromagnetic part is energized, it can attract the synchronizing sleeve so that the rotating shaft, the electromagnetic part, the synchronizing sleeve and the first transmission wheel operate in linkage.

[0028] The transmission assembly includes a first transmission wheel and a second transmission wheel that mesh with each other. The first transmission wheel is located on the rotating shaft, and the second transmission wheel is located at the torque input end of the corresponding sorting unit. The clutch mechanism can disconnect or engage the linkage between the rotating shaft and the first transmission wheel. The axis of the rotating shaft extends vertically, and the rotation axis of the torque input end of the sorting unit extends horizontally.

[0029] The clutch mechanism is used to disconnect the linkage between the first transmission wheel and the shaft. The first and second transmission wheels are used to transmit torque. First, the two torque transmission components have a shorter transmission chain and higher transmission efficiency. Second, using transmission wheels to transmit torque makes it easier to adjust the direction of torque transmission and makes the arrangement of the transmission components more flexible.

[0030] In this technical solution, the clutch mechanism is an electromagnetic clutch or a magnetic powder clutch. Taking an electromagnetic clutch as an example, the clutch mechanism includes a fixed part, an electromagnetic part, and a synchronizing sleeve. The rotating shaft can always run together with one of the electromagnetic part and the synchronizing sleeve that are linked with it. The first transmission wheel can always run together with the other of the electromagnetic part and the synchronizing sleeve that are linked with it. When the electromagnetic part is energized, the synchronizing sleeve will be attracted by the electromagnetic part, so that the synchronizing sleeve is linked with the electromagnetic part, thereby enabling the clutch mechanism to establish a driving connection relationship between the rotating shaft and the first transmission wheel.

[0031] Secondly, the present invention provides a sorting and transportation system, including the sorting and transportation line in any of the above technical solutions, and also including a feeding identification system. The feeding identification system further includes a control system, which is connected to each drive device so as to enable it to control the operating state of each roller assembly.

[0032] In this technical solution, the material feeding and identification system includes a sorting and transportation line and a control system. The control system is used to control the operating status of each rotating component, making it run in the forward direction, in the reverse direction, or stop running. The control system includes a PLC.

[0033] In one technical solution of the present invention, the feeding identification system further includes a first identification device that is communicatively connected to the control system, and a first feeding device that feeds express packages to the roller assembly corresponding to the first sorting unit. The first identification device can be disposed on the first feeding device. The first identification device can detect the width of the express package output by the first feeding device. The feeding identification system further includes a sub-identification device and a master identification device that are communicatively connected to the control system. The sub-identification device can be correspondingly connected to the roller assembly corresponding to each first sorting unit, and the master identification device can be connected to the first feeding device. The master identification device can identify the sub-identification device so that the control system can determine the number of each roller assembly corresponding to each first sorting unit, thereby enabling the control system to control the roller assembly with the corresponding number to operate and form a conveyor belt with a width greater than or equal to that of the express package.

[0034] In this technical solution, the first identification device can identify the width of the express delivery conveyed by the first sorting unit, and determine the workload of the first sorting unit based on the width. Then, the control system controls one or more adjacent rotating components corresponding to the first sorting unit to operate, forming a conveyor belt with a width greater than or equal to that of the express delivery, thereby improving the utilization rate of the rotating components corresponding to the first sorting unit.

[0035] The first recognition device can be set to one of a vision camera, grayscale meter, and light curtain to complete the detection of the express width and transmit the detection result to the control system.

[0036] The first feeding device can be set as a packing machine located on the left or right side of the sorting and transport line, and transport the express delivery to the first sorting unit in the left-right direction.

[0037] In one technical solution of the present invention, the feeding and identification system further includes a second identification device communicatively connected to the control system, and a second feeding device for conveying express packages to the roller assembly corresponding to the second sorting unit. The second identification device can be disposed on the second feeding device. The second identification device can detect the width and height of the express packages output by the second feeding device. When the second identification device detects that the express package meets one of the following conditions, the control system controls the second feeding device to stop conveying the express package to the second sorting device: Condition 1: The width of the express package is greater than the maximum conveying width of the second sorting unit; Condition 2: The height of the express package is greater than the distance between the second sorting unit and the first sorting unit.

[0038] In this technical solution, the second identification device is used to detect the width and height of the express delivery output by the second feeding device. When the width of the express delivery exceeds the threshold, or when the width of the express delivery exceeds the threshold, the control system controls the second feeding device to stop feeding the express delivery to the second sorting device to avoid damage to the express delivery or sorting unit.

[0039] In one technical solution of the present invention, the feeding identification system further includes a courier sensing device that is communicatively connected to the control system. The courier sensing device can be correspondingly installed on the first feeding device and the second feeding device. The courier sensing device can sense whether the first feeding device and the second feeding device are outputting a courier. When the first feeding device or the second feeding device outputs a courier, the control system controls the corresponding drive device to operate, so that the roller assembly corresponding to the first feeding device and the second feeding device can operate to receive the courier.

[0040] In this technical solution, the express delivery sensing device is used to sense whether the first and second feeding devices are outputting express deliveries. When the two devices output express deliveries, the control system controls the corresponding drive device to run. This greatly avoids the situation where the first and second sorting units operate without load, and significantly reduces the energy consumption of the sorting and transportation line.

[0041] (III) Beneficial Effects

[0042] The beneficial effects of the present invention are: the sorting and transportation line and sorting and transportation system of the present invention are configured with a single-track multi-layer structure, that is, the sorting unit includes a first sorting unit and a second sorting unit arranged vertically, which can independently perform express sorting, thereby achieving a nearly doubled improvement in express sorting efficiency through a single operation.

[0043] This invention integrates the advantages of narrow belt sorting machines and cross belt sorting machines without significantly increasing the floor space and production cost of the sorting and transportation line. It also enables the sorting machine to obtain more compartments while keeping the floor space of the sorting machine relatively small, thus meeting the sorting needs of express delivery. It effectively balances the conflicting issues of cost, floor space and sorting efficiency of the sorting machine.

[0044] Since the first sorting unit is farther away from the line than the second sorting unit, and there are no obstructions on the side of the first sorting unit that is away from the line, there will be enough space above the first sorting unit to accommodate taller packages, ensuring that taller packages can be sorted by the first sorting unit. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the sorting unit of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the sorting and transport line of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 3 This is a system block diagram of the material feeding and identification system of the present invention.

[0048] [Explanation of Labels in the Attached Image]

[0049] 1: Line body;

[0050] 2: Sorting unit; 21: Main frame; 22: Sorting device; 221: First sorting unit; 222: Second sorting unit; 2001: Roller assembly; 23: Sub-frame;

[0051] 3: Drive unit; 31: Rotating shaft; 32: Drive wheel; 33: Clutch mechanism; 331: Fixed part; 332: Synchronizing sleeve; 34: Transmission assembly; 341: First transmission wheel; 342: Second transmission wheel;

[0052] 4: Control system;

[0053] 5: First identification device;

[0054] 6: First feeding device;

[0055] 7: Sub-identification device;

[0056] 8: Mother identification device;

[0057] 9: Second identification device;

[0058] 10: Second feeding device. Detailed Implementation

[0059] To better explain and facilitate understanding of this invention, the following description is provided in conjunction with the appendix. Figure 1-3The present invention will be described in detail through specific embodiments. In this document, directional terms such as "upper" and "lower" are used interchangeably with other directional terms. Figure 2 The orientation is used as a reference.

[0060] Example 1:

[0061] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 An embodiment of the present invention provides a sorting and transport line, including a line body 1 and a plurality of sorting units 2. The line body 1 is arranged vertically and forms a closed loop. The plurality of sorting units 2 are connected end to end and can run along the line body 1. The sorting unit 2 includes a main frame 21 and a sorting device 22 connected to the main frame 21. The sorting device 22 includes a first sorting unit 221 and a second sorting unit 222 stacked at intervals. The first sorting unit 221 is farther away from the line body 1 than the second sorting unit 222.

[0062] In this embodiment, the sorting unit 2 is configured as a single-track multi-layer structure, that is, the sorting unit 2 includes a first sorting unit 221 and a second sorting unit 222 arranged vertically. The two can independently sort express packages, thereby achieving a near doubling of express package sorting efficiency through a single operation.

[0063] Specifically, the first sorting platform can use a straight-line loading method, such as loading packages on the left or right side of the sorting transport line; the second sorting platform can use a cross-belt loading method, such as loading packages on the front or back side of the sorting transport line.

[0064] This invention integrates the advantages of narrow belt sorting machines and cross belt sorting machines without significantly increasing the floor space and production cost of the sorting and transportation line. It also enables the sorting machine to obtain more compartments while keeping the floor space of the sorting machine relatively small, thus meeting the sorting needs of express delivery. It effectively balances the conflicting issues of cost, floor space and sorting efficiency of the sorting machine.

[0065] Since the first sorting unit 221 is farther away from the line 1 than the second sorting unit 222, and there are no obstructions on the side of the first sorting unit 221 that is away from the line 1, there will be enough space above the first sorting unit 221 to accommodate taller express packages, ensuring that taller express packages can be sorted by the first sorting unit 221.

[0066] Specifically, both the first sorting unit 221 and the second sorting unit 222 include two rollers and a belt that links the two rollers. The outer surface of the belt away from the line body 1 forms a sorting platform.

[0067] The first sorting unit 221 and the second sorting unit 222 both include at least one set of roller assemblies 2001, and the roller assemblies 2001 can run in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the closed loop; the outer side of the roller assemblies 2001 away from the center of the closed loop forms a sorting platform, and the adjacent sorting platforms corresponding to the first sorting unit 221 are continuously arranged.

[0068] Since the adjacent sorting platforms formed by the first sorting unit 221 are continuously arranged, the adjacent sorting platforms can operate synchronously to form an integrated platform. Large express packages can be sorted through this integrated platform, while small express packages can be sorted through the second sorting unit 222. Therefore, this sorting and transportation line can classify and process the express packages transported by the sorting and transportation line, so that the utilization rate of the sorting platform matches the size of the express packages. This not only achieves energy saving, but also enables more accurate transportation of express packages to designated locations, thereby improving the sorting efficiency and sorting accuracy of the sorting machine.

[0069] The sorting device 22 also includes a sub-frame 23, and the roller assemblies 2001 are all connected to the sub-frame 23. The sub-frame 23 is detachably connected to the main frame 21.

[0070] In this embodiment, the first sorting unit 221 and the second sorting unit 222 are both connected to and supported on the sub-frame 23, which enables the first sorting unit 221, the second sorting unit 222 and their support to form a whole, which is conducive to realizing the modular production and modular assembly of the sorting device 22, improving production and assembly efficiency and reducing costs.

[0071] Specifically, the sub-frame 23 can be bolted to the main frame 21. The sub-frame 23 corresponding to the first sorting unit 221 and the second sorting unit 222 is an integral structure. After disconnecting the connection between the sub-frame 23 and the main frame 21, the first sorting unit 221, the second sorting unit 222 and the sub-frame 23 can be disassembled as a whole.

[0072] More specifically, the main frame 21 can be configured as a connecting ear, which mainly serves to support the drive device 3 and can also be used to connect adjacent leverage sorting systems.

[0073] The 2001 roller assembly enables bidirectional express delivery, thereby allowing the sorting line to sort express packages in both directions, thus improving the flexibility of the sorting line.

[0074] In this embodiment, the sorting and transport line also includes a drive device 3 that is driven and connected to the roller assembly 2001. The drive device 3 is an electric drive module or a mechanical drive module.

[0075] In this embodiment, the roller assembly 2001 is driven by the drive device 3. Both the electric drive module and the lever drive module enable the sorting platform to run in both forward and reverse directions. The electric drive module and the lever drive module can be set together, or only the electric drive module or the lever drive module can be used as the drive device 3. The specific choice can be made flexibly by the relevant personnel.

[0076] In this embodiment, the electric drive module includes a motor, the torque output end of which is driven and connected to the torque input end of the corresponding roller assembly 2001; the mechanical drive module includes a rotating shaft 31, a drive wheel 32, a clutch mechanism 33, and a transmission assembly 34. The clutch mechanism 33 and the transmission assembly 34 are configured in multiple sets corresponding to the number of sorting units 2 stacked at intervals. The drive wheel 32, the clutch mechanism 33, and the transmission assembly 34 are all integrated on a single rotating shaft 31. The drive wheel 32 is connected to the rotating shaft 31, and the transmission assembly 34 can drive the torque input end connecting the rotating shaft 31 and the sorting unit 2. The clutch mechanism 33 is... It can switch between a disconnected state, in which the drive connection between the rotating shaft 31 and the torque output end of the transmission assembly 34 is disconnected, and a connected state, in which the drive connection between the rotating shaft 31 and the torque input end of the transmission assembly 34 is established; the transmission assembly 34 includes a first transmission wheel 341 and a second transmission wheel 342 that mesh with each other. The first transmission wheel 341 is located on the rotating shaft 31, and the second transmission wheel 342 is located at the torque input end of the corresponding sorting unit 2; the clutch mechanism 33 can disconnect or engage the linkage between the rotating shaft 31 and the first transmission wheel 341; the axis of the rotating shaft 31 extends vertically, and the rotation axis of the torque input end of the sorting unit 2 extends laterally.

[0077] In this embodiment, the motor is configured as a servo motor, or a rotating roller assembly is driven by two motors with opposite driving directions;

[0078] In this embodiment, by leveraging the action of the sorting system running on the online body 1, the drive wheel 32 is rotated by friction. The torque of the drive wheel 32 is transmitted to the rotating shaft 31, and the drive connection relationship between the rotating shaft 31 and the corresponding sorting unit 2 is controlled by the clutch mechanism 33. This allows each sorting unit 2 to run for the required time at the required time, improving the reliability of the sorting unit 2 when performing express sorting operations.

[0079] The drive unit 3 includes a rotating shaft 31, a drive wheel 32, a clutch mechanism 33, and a transmission assembly 34. One drive unit 3 has one rotating shaft 31. The number of sorting units 2, the number of clutch mechanisms 33, and the number of transmission assemblies 34 are the same. The clutch mechanism 33, the transmission assembly 34, and the drive wheel 32 are all integrated on one rotating shaft 31. Compared with the prior art, since one drive unit 3 can meet the needs of all vertically arranged sorting units 2 to run in one direction for unidirectional express sorting operations, there will be no problem of easy interference between drive units 3. It also greatly reduces the overall size of the drive unit 3, improves the structural compactness of the drive unit 3, and also improves the structural compactness of the leverage sorting system.

[0080] The present invention uses a rotating shaft 31 to carry the input torque from the drive wheel 32, and uses the state switching of the clutch mechanism 33 to selectively transmit the torque of the rotating shaft 31 to the torque input end of the corresponding transmission component 34, thereby realizing independent control of each sorting unit 2 and improving the flexibility of use of the sorting unit 2 when performing express sorting operations.

[0081] The drive wheel 32 is fixedly connected to the rotating shaft 31, and the two always maintain synchronous operation.

[0082] When the clutch mechanism 33 is switched to the disengaged state, the torque input end of the rotating shaft 31 and the transmission component 34 remains separated. At this time, even if the rotating shaft 31 rotates under the drive of the drive wheel 32, the torque of the rotating shaft 31 cannot be transmitted to the torque input end of the transmission component 34, thereby keeping the corresponding sorting unit 2 stationary.

[0083] When the clutch mechanism 33 switches to the engaged state, the torque input end of the rotating shaft 31 and the transmission component 34 are linked through the clutch mechanism 33. At this time, when the rotating shaft 31 rotates under the drive of the drive wheel 32, the torque of the rotating shaft 31 is transmitted to the torque input end of the transmission component 34, thereby enabling the torque output end of the transmission component 34 to drive the corresponding sorting unit 2 to run.

[0084] In this embodiment, the clutch mechanism 33 is used to disconnect the linkage between the first transmission wheel 341 and the rotating shaft 31. The first transmission wheel 341 and the second transmission wheel 342 are used to transmit torque. First, the two torque transmission components have a shorter transmission chain and higher transmission efficiency. Second, using transmission wheels to transmit torque makes it easier to adjust the direction of torque transmission, making the arrangement of the transmission assembly 34 more flexible.

[0085] In this embodiment, both the first transmission wheel 341 and the second transmission wheel 342 can be spiral bevel gears to improve the stability of torque transmission and reduce meshing noise.

[0086] The first transmission wheel 341 is rotatably connected to the rotating shaft 31, and can be axially limited by the limiting rings on both sides of the first transmission wheel 341 located on the rotating shaft 31.

[0087] like Figure 1 As shown, in this embodiment, the clutch mechanism 33 is configured as an electromagnetic clutch or a magnetic powder clutch. The clutch mechanism 33 includes a fixed part 331, an electromagnetic part, and a synchronizing sleeve 332. The fixed part 331 is supported on the main frame 21, and the electromagnetic part is supported on the fixed part 331. The electromagnetic part is linked with one of the first transmission wheel 341 and the rotating shaft 31 to operate synchronously. The synchronizing sleeve 332 is linked with the other of the first transmission wheel 341 and the rotating shaft 31 to operate synchronously. When the electromagnetic part is energized, it can attract the synchronizing sleeve 332, so that the rotating shaft 31, the electromagnetic part, the synchronizing sleeve 332, and the first transmission wheel 341 operate in linkage.

[0088] In this embodiment, the clutch mechanism 33 is an electromagnetic clutch or a magnetic powder clutch. Taking the electromagnetic clutch as an example, the clutch mechanism 33 includes a fixed part 331, an electromagnetic part, and a synchronizing sleeve 332. The rotating shaft 31 can always run together with one of the electromagnetic part and the synchronizing sleeve 332 that are linked with it. The first transmission wheel 341 can always run together with the other of the electromagnetic part and the synchronizing sleeve 332 that are linked with it. When the electromagnetic part is energized, the synchronizing sleeve 332 will be attracted by the electromagnetic part, so that the synchronizing sleeve 332 is linked with the electromagnetic part, thereby enabling the clutch mechanism 33 to establish a driving connection relationship between the rotating shaft 31 and the first transmission wheel 341.

[0089] The term "linkage" here refers to a state of operation where, when one of two linked components rotates, the other will also receive torque from the former. It does not restrict whether there are other auxiliary components between the two linked components.

[0090] Specifically, an armature can be provided on one side of the synchronization sleeve 332. When the electromagnetic part is energized, it generates magnetism to attract the armature and then the synchronization sleeve 332, so that the synchronization sleeve 332 can operate in conjunction with the electromagnetic part.

[0091] Depending on the location of the clutch mechanism 33, the electromagnetic part or the synchronization sleeve 332 that operates in conjunction with the rotating shaft 31 can be directly or indirectly connected to the rotating shaft 31 or the drive wheel 32 so that the electromagnetic part or the synchronization sleeve 332 can be linked with the rotating shaft 31.

[0092] In this embodiment, the synchronizing sleeve 332 is axially slidably connected to the rotating shaft 31 and can rotate circumferentially relative to the rotating shaft 31; the clutch mechanism 33 also includes a plug rod, which is slidably engaged with the synchronizing sleeve 332 along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 31; when the synchronizing sleeve 332 is linked with the first transmission wheel 341, the plug rod is connected to the first transmission wheel 341; when the synchronizing sleeve 332 is linked with the rotating shaft 31, the plug rod is directly or indirectly connected to the rotating shaft 31.

[0093] In this embodiment, while the synchronizing sleeve 332 is rotatably connected to the rotating shaft 31, it can also slide along the axial direction of the rotating shaft 31. The insert rod can not only limit the sliding trajectory of the synchronizing sleeve 332, but also ensure that the rotational torque of the component connected to the insert rod can always be transmitted to the synchronizing sleeve 332, thus ensuring the stability and reliability of the torque transmission of the clutch mechanism 33.

[0094] Specifically, the position of the insert rod is determined by the components that the synchronizing sleeve 332 maintains linkage with. When the synchronizing sleeve 332 needs to maintain linkage with the first transmission wheel 341, the insert rod is fixedly connected to the first transmission wheel 341. When the synchronizing sleeve 332 needs to maintain linkage with the rotating shaft 31, and the clutch mechanism 33 is close to the drive wheel 32, the insert rod can be fixed to the drive wheel 32. Otherwise, the insert rod is fixed to the flange fixedly connected to the rotating shaft 31.

[0095] More specifically, the insert can remain inserted into the synchronization sleeve 332, which can be a nylon sleeve.

[0096] Each set of sorting units 2 with intervals stacked corresponds to two drive devices 3. The two drive devices 3 are located on both sides of the sorting units 2 with intervals stacked, so as to drive the sorting units 2 to run in the forward or reverse direction.

[0097] In this technical solution, one drive device 3 is used to drive the sorting unit 2 to rotate forward, and another drive device 3 is used to drive the sorting unit 2 to rotate in reverse, so as to realize bidirectional sorting of the sorting unit 2 and further improve the convenience of using the sorting unit 2.

[0098] Example 2:

[0099] Reference Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 The present invention provides a sorting and transportation system, including the sorting and transportation line in the above embodiments, and also includes a loading and identification system. The loading and identification system further includes a control system 4, which is connected to each drive device 3 so as to control the operating state of each roller assembly 2001.

[0100] In this embodiment, the material feeding and identification system includes a sorting and conveying line and a control system 4. The control system 4 is used to control the operating state of each rotating component, making it run in the forward direction, in the reverse direction, or stop running. The control system 4 includes a PLC.

[0101] In this embodiment, the feeding and identification system further includes a first identification device 5, which is communicatively connected to the control system 4, and a first feeding device 6, which feeds express packages to the roller assembly 2001 corresponding to the first sorting unit 221. The first identification device 5 can be mounted on the first feeding device 6. The first identification device 5 can detect the width of the express package output by the first feeding device 6. The feeding and identification system also includes a sub-identification device 7 and a mother identification device 8, which are communicatively connected to the control system 4. The sub-identification device 7 can be correspondingly connected to the roller assembly 2001 corresponding to each first sorting unit 221, and the mother identification device 8 can be connected to the first feeding device 6. The mother identification device 8 can identify the sub-identification device 7 so that the control system 4 can determine the number of each roller assembly 2001 corresponding to each first sorting unit 221, thereby enabling the control system 4 to control the roller assembly 2001 with the corresponding number to operate and form a conveyor belt with a width greater than or equal to that of the express package.

[0102] In this embodiment, the first identification device 5 can identify the width of the express delivery conveyed by the first sorting unit 221, and determine the workload of the first sorting unit 221 by the width. Then, the control system 4 controls the operation of one or more adjacent rotating components corresponding to the first sorting unit 221 to form a conveyor belt with a width greater than or equal to that of the express delivery, thereby improving the utilization rate of the rotating components corresponding to the first sorting unit 221.

[0103] The first identification device 5 can be configured as one of a vision camera, grayscale meter, and light curtain, such as a reflection sensor or a through-beam sensor. When the express delivery passes through the sensor position, it completes the detection of the express delivery width and transmits the detection result to the control system 4.

[0104] Specifically, the mother identification device 8 can be a scanner, and the child identification device 7 can be a QR code label. The QR code label is set on each roller assembly 2001 corresponding to the first sorting unit 221. The scanner can identify each QR code label and transmit the identification information to the control system 4, and control the corresponding roller assembly 2001 to work through the control system 4.

[0105] More specifically, the scanner can be a barcode reader or a barcode scanner. Barcode readers can store images and are highly efficient, while barcode scanners cannot store images and are relatively less efficient, but they are cheaper. The appropriate option can be chosen by the relevant personnel as needed.

[0106] The first feeding device 6 can be configured as a packing machine located on the left or right side of the sorting and transport line, and transport express packages to the first sorting unit 221 in the left-right direction.

[0107] In this embodiment, the feeding and identification system further includes a second identification device 9 communicatively connected to the control system 4, and a second feeding device 10 for conveying express packages to the roller assembly 2001 corresponding to the second sorting unit 222. The second identification device 9 can be mounted on the second feeding device 10. The second identification device 9 can detect the width and height of the express packages output by the second feeding device 10. When the second identification device 9 detects that the express package meets one of the following conditions, the control system 4 controls the second feeding device 10 to stop conveying the express package to the second sorting device 22: Condition 1: The width of the express package is greater than the maximum conveying width of the second sorting unit 222; Condition 2: The height of the express package is greater than the distance between the second sorting unit 222 and the first sorting unit 221.

[0108] In this embodiment, the second identification device 9 is used to detect the width and height of the express delivery output by the second feeding device 10. When the width of the express delivery exceeds the threshold, or when the width of the express delivery exceeds the threshold, the control system 4 controls the second feeding device 10 to stop feeding the express delivery to the second sorting device 22, so as to avoid damage to the express delivery or the sorting unit 2.

[0109] Specifically, the second identification device 9 can be configured as one of a visual camera, a grayscale meter, and a light curtain, and transmits the detection results to the control system 4.

[0110] In this embodiment, the feeding identification system also includes a parcel sensing device that is communicatively connected to the control system 4. The parcel sensing device can be correspondingly installed on the first feeding device 6 and the second feeding device 10. The parcel sensing device can sense whether the first feeding device 6 and the second feeding device 10 are outputting parcels. When the first feeding device 6 or the second feeding device 10 outputs a parcel, the control system 4 controls the corresponding drive device 3 to operate, so that the roller assembly 2001 corresponding to the first feeding device 6 and the second feeding device 10 can operate to receive the parcel.

[0111] In this embodiment, the express delivery sensing device is used to sense whether the first feeding device 6 and the second feeding device 10 are outputting express delivery. When the two output express delivery, the control system 4 controls the corresponding drive device 3 to run. This greatly avoids the situation where the first sorting unit 221 and the second sorting unit 222 are running without load, and greatly reduces the energy consumption of the sorting and transportation line.

[0112] Specifically, the express delivery sensing device can be set as a weight sensor. The sensor can be set on the force-bearing surface of the first feeding device 6 and the second feeding device 10 that carries the express delivery. When the express delivery passes the position of the weight sensor on the force-bearing surface, the weight sensor will detect the express delivery and transmit the information to the control system 4.

[0113] More specifically, the weight sensor can be configured as either a dynamic weighing device or a static weighing device.

[0114] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0115] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0116] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first and second features are in direct contact, or that they are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," or "on top" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," or "beneath" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0117] The term "comprising" or any other similar term is intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, courier, or device / apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to those processes, courier, or device / apparatus.

[0118] The technical solution of the present invention has been described above with reference to the preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the scope of protection of the present invention is obviously not limited to these specific embodiments. Without departing from the principles of the present invention, those skilled in the art can make equivalent changes or substitutions to the relevant technical features, and the technical solutions after such changes or substitutions will all fall within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sorting conveyor line, characterized by: The sorting conveying line comprises a line body (1) and a plurality of sorting units (2), the line body (1) is vertically arranged and forms a closed loop, and the plurality of sorting units (2) are connected end to end and can run along the line body (1); The sorting unit (2) comprises a main rack (21) and a sorting device (22) connected to the main rack (21); The sorting device (22) comprises a first sorting unit (221) and a second sorting unit (222) which are spaced and stacked, and the first sorting unit (221) is away from the line body (1) compared with the second sorting unit (222); The first sorting unit (221) and the second sorting unit (222) each comprise at least one group of rotating roller assemblies (2001), and the rotating roller assemblies (2001) can run in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the closed loop; the outer side of the rotating roller assemblies (2001) away from the center of the closed loop forms a sorting platform, and the adjacent sorting platforms corresponding to the first sorting unit (221) are arranged continuously; The sorting conveying line further comprises a driving device (3) drivingly connected with the rotating roller assemblies (2001), and the driving device (3) is a mechanical borrowed drive module; The mechanical borrowed drive module comprises a rotating shaft (31), a driving wheel (32), a clutch mechanism (33) and a transmission assembly (34), the clutch mechanism (33) and the transmission assembly (34) are arranged in a plurality of groups corresponding to the number of groups of the spaced and stacked sorting units (2), and the driving wheel (32), the clutch mechanism (33) and the transmission assembly (34) are integrated on one rotating shaft (31); The driving wheel (32) is connected to the rotating shaft (31), the transmission assembly (34) can drivingly connect the rotating shaft (31) and the torque input end of the sorting unit (2), and the clutch mechanism (33) can switch between a disconnection state of disconnecting the driving connection relationship between the rotating shaft (31) and the torque output end of the transmission assembly (34) and a connection state of establishing the driving connection relationship between the rotating shaft (31) and the torque input end of the transmission assembly (34).

2. The sorting conveying line according to claim 1, wherein: The transmission assembly (34) comprises a first transmission wheel (341) and a second transmission wheel (342) which are engaged with each other, the first transmission wheel (341) is arranged on the rotating shaft (31), and the second transmission wheel (342) is arranged on the torque input end corresponding to the sorting unit (2); The clutch mechanism (33) can disconnect or connect the linkage relationship between the rotating shaft (31) and the first transmission wheel (341); The axis of the rotating shaft (31) extends vertically, and the rotation axis of the torque input end of the sorting unit (2) extends horizontally.

3. A sorting conveyor line as claimed in claim 2, characterized in that: Each group of spaced and stacked sorting units (2) corresponds to two driving devices (3), and the two driving devices (3) are respectively located on the two sides of the spaced and stacked sorting units (2) to drive the sorting units (2) to run forward or reversely.

4. A sorting conveyor line as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that: The clutch mechanism (33) is arranged as an electromagnetic clutch or a magnetic powder clutch. The clutch mechanism (33) comprises a fixed part (331), an electromagnetic part and a synchronous sleeve (332), the fixed part (331) is supported on the main frame (21), the electromagnetic part is supported on the fixed part (331), the electromagnetic part is linked with one of the first transmission wheel (341) and the rotating shaft (31) to operate synchronously, the synchronous sleeve (332) is linked with the other one of the first transmission wheel (341) and the rotating shaft (31) to operate synchronously, the electromagnetic part can adsorb the synchronous sleeve (332) after being powered, so that the rotating shaft (31), the electromagnetic part, the synchronous sleeve (332) and the first transmission wheel (341) operate in linkage.

5. A sortation conveyor system characterized by: The sorting conveying line comprises the sorting conveying line according to any one of claims 2-4, and further comprises a feeding identification system, the feeding identification system further comprises a control system (4), the control system (4) is in control connection with each driving device (3) so as to control the operating state of each rotating roller assembly (2001).

6. The sortation conveyor system of claim 5, wherein: The feeding identification system further comprises a first identification device (5) in communication connection with the control system (4), and a first feeding device (6) for conveying express mails to the rotating roller assembly (2001) corresponding to the first sorting unit (221), the first identification device (5) can be arranged on the first feeding device (6); The first identification device (5) can detect the width of the express mails output by the first feeding device (6); The feeding identification system further comprises a sub-identification device (7) and a master identification device (8) in communication connection with the control system (4), the sub-identification device (7) can be correspondingly connected to the rotating roller assembly (2001) corresponding to each first sorting unit (221), and the master identification device (8) can be connected to the first feeding device (6); The master identification device (8) can identify the sub-identification device (7) so that the control system (4) determines the number of each rotating roller assembly (2001) corresponding to each first sorting unit (221), and further enables the control system (4) to control the corresponding numbered rotating roller assembly (2001) to operate and form a conveying belt with a width greater than or equal to the width of the express mails.

7. The sortation conveyor system of claim 6, wherein: The feeding identification system further comprises a second identification device (9) in communication connection with the control system (4), and a second feeding device (10) for conveying express mails to the rotating roller assembly (2001) corresponding to the second sorting unit (222), the second identification device (9) can be arranged on the second feeding device (10); The second identification device (9) can detect the width and height of the express mails output by the second feeding device (10); When the second identification device (9) detects that the express mails satisfy one of the following conditions, the control system (4) controls the second feeding device (10) to stop conveying express mails to the second sorting unit (222): Condition one: the width of the express mails is greater than the maximum conveying width of the second sorting unit (222); Condition two: the height of the express delivery is greater than the distance between the second sorting unit (222) and the first sorting unit (221).

8. The sortation conveyor system of claim 7, wherein: The upper feeding recognition system further comprises an express delivery sensing device in communication with the control system (4), which can be arranged on the first upper feeding device (6) and the second upper feeding device (10); The express delivery sensing device can sense whether the first upper feeding device (6) and the second upper feeding device (10) output express delivery; When the first upper feeding device (6) or the second upper feeding device (10) outputs express delivery, the control system (4) controls the corresponding driving device (3) to run, so that the corresponding rotating roller assembly (2001) of the first upper feeding device (6) and the second upper feeding device (10) runs to receive the express delivery.

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