Sorting machine and sorting system

Abstract

The application discloses a sorting machine and a sorting system, and relates to the technical field of article sorting. The sorting machine comprises a support, a conveying assembly, a marking assembly and a signal receiving and processing assembly. The conveying assembly is connected with the support and conveys packages. The marking assembly is connected with the support to mark the packages. The signal receiving and processing assembly comprises a receiving module and a processing module. The receiving module receives address information and numbering rules of the packages. The processing module outputs numbers according to the address information and the numbering rules. The marking assembly marks the packages by ink jet according to the numbers. The sorting system comprises the sorting machine, a distribution mechanism and a storage mechanism. The application realizes automatic marking of end delivery packages, adapts to personalized numbering rules, replaces manual marking, improves marking efficiency, digitizes font symbols of ink jet marking, facilitates express delivery personnel to quickly read and arrange, solves the problem of inconvenient envelope checking, significantly improves end delivery efficiency and is simple in structure and suitable for high-frequency operation requirements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of goods sorting, and particularly to a sorting machine and sorting system. Background Technology

[0002] In logistics sorting and warehousing management, sorting machines are core equipment for the rapid classification and circulation of packages. To facilitate subsequent identification, traceability, and classification management, packages are usually marked during the sorting process. Currently, package marking involves printing labels with a label printer and then affixing them to the surface of the package. The labels display relevant information about the package.

[0003] However, existing parcel sorting only considers the sorting process at the classification stage, that is, sorting parcels until they are delivered to the corresponding courier. Although this sorting result can complete the final delivery of parcels, the applicant found that even if all parcels in the same area are distributed to the corresponding couriers, couriers, in order to deliver more parcels, usually write delivery marks on the parcels by hand with a pen according to their own delivery habits. This method is not only extremely inefficient, but the handwritten marks are also irregular and easily confused. As a result, couriers have to repeatedly check the small print address information on the parcel labels and find the corresponding parcel from hundreds of parcels in the delivery vehicle. This is extremely inefficient and seriously restricts the efficiency of last-mile delivery. Meanwhile, the font size of the address information on the original waybills is generally too small, making it extremely inefficient for couriers to check in outdoor, poorly lit, or when packages are piled up in delivery vehicles. Even with the introduction of conventional inkjet marking equipment, it is easy to miss marking due to the lateral misalignment of small packages. Missing marking on a single package will directly lead to misalignment of the marking and address information on all subsequent packages, causing systemic errors and failing to meet the high-frequency and personalized operational needs of the last-mile delivery process. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The main objective of this invention is to provide a sorting machine and sorting system that can help couriers improve delivery efficiency during last-mile delivery.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention proposes a sorting machine for marking parcels delivered to the final destination. The sorting machine includes: support; A conveying assembly, connected to a support frame, is adapted to convey packages to be marked; A marking component, attached to a support, is adapted to mark packages; The signal receiving and processing component is connected to the bracket and communicates with the marking component. The signal receiving and processing component includes a receiving module and a processing module. The receiving module is used to receive the address information of each package sequentially transmitted by the transmitting component. The receiving module is also used to receive the numbering rules. The processing module outputs the corresponding number according to the address information and the numbering rules. The marking component marks the package with inkjet ink according to the number.

[0006] In some embodiments, the sorting machine is used in a sorting system, and the receiving module is used to receive the address sequence of each package that is synchronously transmitted from the sorting system to each package that is transmitted to the conveying component. The address sequence includes the address information of each package arranged in the transmission order. or, The receiving module includes a signal reading mechanism, which sequentially reads the tag information of each package passing through the first location to obtain the address information of each package.

[0007] In some embodiments, the conveying component includes a conveyor belt adapted to convey a package to be marked from a first position to a second position, the conveyor belt having a gap between the first position and the second position; The marking component is located below the conveyor surface of the conveyor belt and is adapted to inkjet mark the bottom of the package to be marked passing above it through the gap.

[0008] In some embodiments, the conveyor belt includes a plurality of gap holes spaced apart along its own conveying direction, and the marking assembly includes a plurality of nozzles spaced apart along the conveying direction of the conveyor belt, the spacing of the nozzles being configured such that at least one nozzle is exposed in a gap hole during the rotation of the conveyor belt.

[0009] In some embodiments, the conveyor belt includes a first annular belt and a second annular belt, both of which are arranged around a transverse axis and are spaced apart laterally, with the gap between them located between the first and second annular belts.

[0010] In some embodiments, the conveying assembly further includes a first conveying roller and a second conveying roller; The first conveyor roller is located within the first annular belt and the second annular belt and abuts against the sides of the first annular belt and the second annular belt near the first position, respectively; the second conveyor roller is located within the first annular belt and the second annular belt and abuts against the sides of the first annular belt and the second annular belt near the second position, respectively; At least one of the first and second conveyor rollers is a drive roller for driving the first and second annular belts to rotate.

[0011] In some embodiments, the marking component includes a sensing module, an inkjet module, and a photocuring module, which are arranged sequentially along the conveying direction of the conveying component. The sensing module is used to sense the package above it, the inkjet module is used to mark the package above it with inkjet based on the sensing module, and the photocuring module is used to photocur the ink of the inkjet marking. The inkjet module includes a first printhead and a second printhead. The ink ejected by the first printhead is of a different color than the ink ejected by the second printhead. The sensing module can sense the color of the outer packaging of the package. The inkjet module selects a printhead with an ink color different from that of the outer packaging to mark the package with inkjet ink.

[0012] In some embodiments, the conveying component further includes a third annular belt located between the first annular belt and the second annular belt, and the third annular belt is located at the front end of the marking component; The third annular belt rotates synchronously with the first and second annular belts to transport packages; or, the sorting machine may also include a position detection component, which drives the third annular belt to rotate in the opposite direction to the first and second annular belts when the position detection component detects that the package is off-center, so that the third annular belt drives the package being transported by the first or second annular belt to rotate, and when the package rotates to be close to the center, the third annular belt is driven to rotate synchronously with the first and second annular belts.

[0013] In some embodiments, the receiving module includes a sensing component located above the conveying component and used to detect the number of packages passing by laterally. Along the conveying direction of the conveying component, the sensing component and the sensing module are positioned flush. When the sensing component detects a package but the sensing module does not detect a package, the receiving module deletes the address information of the corresponding package.

[0014] An embodiment of the second aspect of this application also provides a sorting system, including: The sorting machine of any of the above, and, Distribution facilities are used to transport packages to sorting machines. Storage mechanisms are used to categorize and store packages that have been marked with inkjet printing.

[0015] Compared with existing technologies, the advantages of this invention are as follows: The sorting machine includes a support frame, a conveying component, a marking component, and a signal receiving and processing component. The conveying component connects to the support frame and conveys packages. The marking component connects to the support frame to mark packages. The signal receiving and processing component includes a receiving module and a processing module. The receiving module receives package address information and numbering rules, and the processing module outputs a number accordingly. The marking component marks the packages with inkjet ink according to the number. The sorting system includes the sorting machine, a distribution mechanism, and a storage mechanism. This invention achieves automated marking of packages for last-mile delivery, adapts to personalized numbering rules, replaces manual marking, and improves marking efficiency. The inkjet marking font is symbolic and digital, making it easy for couriers to quickly read and organize, solving the pain point of inconvenient waybill viewing, significantly improving last-mile delivery efficiency, and its simple structure is suitable for high-frequency operation needs. By setting up a signal receiving and processing component, it can receive corresponding marking rules, thereby adapting to the personalized marking styles of different couriers or courier stations, improving the applicability of the product. Attached Figure Description

[0016] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0017] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a sorting machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a top view schematic diagram of a sorting machine according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 for Figure 2 A magnified view of a portion of point A in the middle; Figure 4 This is an exploded view of a sorting machine according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A magnified view of a portion of point B in the middle; Figure 6 This is a three-dimensional schematic diagram of the sorting machine behind the hidden support in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a first side view schematic diagram of the sorting machine behind the hidden support in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a second side view schematic diagram of the sorting machine behind the hidden support in one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 This is a second side view schematic diagram of the sorting machine behind the hidden support in another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a top view of the sorting machine behind the hidden support in another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the framework of a sorting system in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Explanation of icon numbers: 100-Sorting Machine; 110-Standard; 111 - Anchor bolt; 120 - Transmission component; 121-Conveyor belt; 1210-Conveyor surface; 1211-First annular belt; 12111-First limiting protrusion; 12112-First conveyor wall; 1212-Second annular belt; 12121-Second limiting protrusion; 12122-Second conveyor wall; 1213-Third annular belt; 122-Gap; 123 - First conveyor roller; 1231 - First annular groove; 124 - Second conveyor roller; 1243 - Second annular groove; 125 - Third conveyor roller; 126 - Fourth conveyor roller; 127 - Accommodation space; 1291 - First position; 1292 - Second position; 130 Marker Component; 131 - Sensing module; 132 - Inkjet module; 1321 - First printhead; 1322 - Second printhead; 133 - Photopolymerization module; 140 - Controller; 150 - Position detection component; 160 - Signal receiving module; 170 - Processing Module; 200-Sorting System; 210 - Distribution organization; 220 - Storage organization.

[0019] The realization of the objective, functional features and advantages of the present invention will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0020] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of the present invention, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0021] In logistics sorting, warehousing management, and last-mile delivery, sorting machines are core equipment for the rapid classification and circulation of packages. To facilitate subsequent identification, traceability, and classification management, packages are usually marked during the sorting process. Currently, most package marking involves printing labels with a label printer and then affixing them to the surface of the package. The labels display the package's logistics and address information. The existing package sorting process only considers the classification needs of the package distribution stage, completing the task once the packages are sorted and delivered to the corresponding courier. Even if all packages in the same area are distributed to the corresponding couriers, couriers still face many pain points in the last-mile delivery stage. The last-mile delivery here refers to the final mile of delivery from the delivery point to the recipient's address. To improve efficiency, couriers often handwrite delivery marks on packages using a pen, based on their own delivery habits. This method is not only extremely inefficient, but the handwritten marks are also inconsistent and easily confused. This forces couriers to repeatedly check the small print on the package labels, making it extremely inefficient to find the correct package among hundreds of packages in a delivery truck, severely hindering last-mile delivery efficiency. Furthermore, the font size of the address information on the original waybills is generally too small, making it very inefficient for couriers to read in outdoor, poorly lit, or stacked delivery truck conditions. Even with the introduction of conventional inkjet marking equipment, issues such as missed markings due to lateral misalignment of small packages are common. Missing a single package can lead to misalignment of markings and address information on all subsequent packages, causing systemic errors and failing to meet the high-frequency, personalized operational needs of last-mile delivery.

[0022] Initially, the applicant attempted to address the aforementioned shortcomings by introducing standardized inkjet equipment for last-mile delivery marking. However, it was discovered that delivery rules varied significantly among different couriers and network points, making standardized marking insufficient for personalized numbering needs. Furthermore, the systemic misalignment problem caused by missing small packages remained unresolved. The equipment also suffered from complex structures and poor operational stability, failing to meet the actual operational requirements of last-mile delivery scenarios. Therefore, this embodiment provides a sorting machine 100 specifically designed for marking last-mile delivery packages. Through optimization of its core structure and functional expansion, it solves the core pain points of low efficiency in manual marking, inconvenient package label viewing, and systemic misalignment caused by missed markings in the last-mile delivery process without adding complex moving parts. Simultaneously, it can adapt to the personalized numbering needs of couriers and network points, significantly improving last-mile delivery efficiency. The sorting machine 100 can be used independently for small-batch last-mile package sorting and printing, or it can be used as a functional module within the sorting system 200 of a large sorting station.

[0023] The sorting machine 100 in this embodiment includes a support frame 110, a conveying component 120, a marking component 130, and a signal receiving and processing component. The support frame 110 is the overall load-bearing base of the sorting machine 100, and can be formed by welding steel profiles or splicing aluminum alloy profiles. The bottom of the support frame 110 can be equipped with anchor bolts 111 or casters to adapt to the ground-fixed installation or mobile operation requirements of express delivery outlets, community stations, and temporary delivery points. The overall structural strength of the support frame 110 must meet the load requirements of the installation of the conveying component 120, the marking component 130, and the signal receiving and processing component, as well as the package conveying process. The conveying component 120 is connected to the support frame 110 and is suitable for conveying packages to be marked. It can adopt a belt conveyor structure, and the conveying process is stable and controllable. It can adapt to the conveying needs of packages of different sizes, weights, and packaging forms in last-mile delivery scenarios, ensuring that packages pass through the marking operation area in an orderly and uniform manner. The marking component 130 is connected to the bracket 110. The marking component 130 is suitable for inkjet marking of packages during the transmission process. The marking component 130 adopts an inkjet marking structure, eliminating the need for consumables such as labels and adhesives. Marking can be completed directly on the surface of the package, resulting in high marking efficiency and low long-term operating costs, perfectly meeting the high-frequency operation requirements of last-mile delivery. The signal receiving and processing component is connected to the bracket 110 and communicates with the marking component 130 via wired or wireless means. The signal receiving and processing component includes a signal receiving module 160 and a processing module 170. The signal receiving module 160 is used to receive the address information of each package sequentially transmitted by the transmission component 120. The signal receiving module 160 is also used to receive numbering rules. The processing module 170 outputs a corresponding number based on the address information and numbering rules. The marking component 130 then uses this number to inkjet mark the package.

[0024] The numbering rules can be customized according to the individual needs of couriers and outlets, fully adapting to the delivery habits of different personnel. For example, the numbering rules can be set to a combination of "identifier-building number-floor number-room number", such as G-2-3-2, where G can represent the courier number or community number, 2 represents the building number, 3 represents the floor number, and 2 represents the room number. It can also be set to a series of consecutive numbers according to the delivery route, hierarchical numbering according to the unit number, numbering according to the last digit of the recipient's mobile phone number, or sorting the numbers according to the pinyin of the recipient's surname, etc. The width of a single font in the inkjet marking component 130 can be between 1 cm and 5 cm, preferably between 2 cm and 4 cm. This font size is much larger than the font of the address information on the original waybill, making it easier for couriers to read quickly from a distance and in complex scenarios. At the same time, the inkjet marking uses a symbolic and digital form of expression, which is more conducive to the sorting and classification of packages. Couriers can directly sort and deliver packages in numerical order without having to check the small address information on the waybill one by one. The efficiency of finding the corresponding package from a large number of packages in the delivery vehicle is increased by more than 50%, significantly reducing the intensity of delivery work and improving the overall efficiency of last-mile delivery.

[0025] When the sorting machine 100 is used in a sorting system, the signal receiving module 160 can be used to receive the address sequence of each package that is synchronously transmitted to the conveying component 120 in the sorting system. The address sequence includes the address information of each package arranged in the transmission order. This method is suitable for large-scale sorting assembly line operations. The upstream barcode scanning and sorting equipment of the sorting system transmits the packages to the conveying component 120 of the sorting machine 100 in sequence, and simultaneously sends the address sequence corresponding to the transmission order of the packages to the signal receiving module 160. The processing module 170 matches the packages one by one according to the address sequence, generates the corresponding number, and controls the marking component 130 to complete the inkjet marking. There is no need to set up an additional information reading component on the sorting machine 100. The equipment structure is simpler and it is suitable for high-flow-rate, large-volume centralized marking of end packages. At the same time, the address sequence is synchronously matched with the package transmission, which can effectively avoid the problem of misalignment between the number and the package. The signal receiving module 160 may also include a signal reading mechanism. The signal reading mechanism sequentially reads the tag information of each package passing through the first position 1291 to obtain the address information of each package. The first position 1291 is the package loading position of the conveying component 120, that is, the starting position of the package entering the conveying component 120. The signal reading mechanism can be a barcode scanner, a QR code reader, an RFID reader, etc., and is fixedly set above or to the side of the first position 1291 of the conveying component 120. When the package enters the first position 1291, the signal reading mechanism automatically scans the express delivery label on the surface of the package, parses and obtains the corresponding recipient address information of the package, and sends it to the processing module 170. This method does not rely on the address sequence transmission of the upstream sorting system. The sorting machine 100 can independently complete the entire process of address information acquisition, number generation, and inkjet marking. It is suitable for small-batch, decentralized last-mile delivery scenarios, and the equipment is more flexible in use. It can also verify the package information in real time to avoid address information mismatch with the package.

[0026] The conveying assembly 120 includes a conveyor belt 121, which is adapted to convey the package to be marked from a first position 1291 to a second position 1292. The second position 1292 is the package unloading position of the conveying assembly 120, that is, the end position where the marked package leaves the conveyor belt 121. A gap 122 is provided between the first position 1291 and the second position 1292. The marking assembly 130 is located below the conveying surface 1210 of the conveyor belt 121. The marking assembly 130 is adapted to perform inkjet marking on the bottom of the package to be marked passing above it through the gap 122. The conveying surface 1210 of the conveyor belt 121 refers to the upper wall surface of the conveyor belt 121 used to carry and convey packages. The gap 122 is set through the conveying direction of the packages. The width of the gap 122 can be set to 10mm-100mm, which can satisfy the complete coverage of the inkjet range of the marking component 130, and prevent the packages from falling off the gap 122 during the conveying process. It can be adjusted according to the minimum size of the package and the inkjet width of the marking component 130. The inkjet end of the marking component 130 is positioned upwards directly opposite the gap 122, and the distance between the inkjet end and the conveyor surface 1210 of the conveyor belt 121 is fixed. This distance can be preset to the optimal distance for inkjet printing based on the characteristics of the inkjet ink and the printing accuracy requirements. By utilizing the support of the conveyor belt 121 on the bottom of the package, the distance between the bottom printing surface of all packages and the inkjet end remains constant. Regardless of the package size or placement, the bottom of the package is always in contact with the conveyor surface 1210. This fundamentally solves the problem of inconsistent printing spacing and inconsistent printing effects caused by differences in package size in top inkjet printing. At the same time, the bottom of the package is naturally flat due to the support of the conveyor belt 121. Even with flexible packaging bags, neat and clear large font numbers can be printed on a flat surface, further improving the readability of the markings and adapting to the usage requirements of last-mile delivery scenarios.

[0027] The conveyor belt 121 can adopt a structure in which multiple gap holes are arranged at intervals along its own conveying direction. The marking component 130 includes multiple nozzles arranged at intervals along the conveying direction of the conveyor belt 121. The spacing between each nozzle is set so that at least one nozzle is exposed through a gap hole during the rotation of the conveyor belt 121. In this structure, the conveyor belt 121 is an integrated annular belt, and the multiple gap holes are arranged at equal intervals along the circumference of the belt. The number and spacing of the nozzles can be matched and set according to the size and spacing of the gap holes to ensure that at least one nozzle is always exposed through a gap hole during the cyclic rotation of the conveyor belt 121. This allows for continuous inkjet marking on the bottom of the package. The integrated conveyor belt structure has fewer parts, is easier to install, and has a more compact structure. At the same time, the design of multiple nozzles and gap holes can be adapted to high-speed conveying scenarios, avoiding inkjet interruption due to continuous movement of the conveyor belt, ensuring the continuity and integrity of marking, and improving the marking efficiency of the last-mile delivery package.

[0028] The conveyor belt 121 can also adopt a split structure of a first annular belt 1211 and a second annular belt 1212. The first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 are both arranged around the transverse axis, and the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 are spaced apart in the transverse direction. The gap 122 is located between the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212. Here, transverse refers to the horizontal direction perpendicular to the package conveying direction. The first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 are arranged side by side and spaced apart in the transverse direction. The conveying surfaces 1210 of the two are on the same horizontal plane and together constitute the package carrying conveying surface. The gap between the two forms the gap 122 that runs through the entire conveying direction, providing a complete inkjet window for the marking component 130. The first and second annular belts 1211 and 1212 can be made of non-slip, wear-resistant rubber or PU material, or high-strength nylon material, to ensure that the package does not slip or shift during transport. The gap 122 is naturally formed between the two annular belts, eliminating the need for additional drilling of the belt body. This effectively reduces the processing difficulty and manufacturing cost of the conveyor belt 121. At the same time, the width of the gap 122 can be flexibly adjusted by adjusting the lateral spacing of the two annular belts to adapt to different printing widths and font sizes, making the equipment more adaptable.

[0029] The conveying assembly 120 further includes a first conveying roller 123 and a second conveying roller 124. The first conveying roller 123 is located within the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212, and abuts against the sides of the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 near the first position 1291, respectively. The second conveying roller 124 is located within the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212, and abuts against the sides of the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 near the second position 1292, respectively. Both the first conveying roller 123 and the second conveying roller 124 are rotatably connected to the bracket 110, and their axes are arranged parallel to each other in the transverse direction. The first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 are together sleeved on the outside of the first conveying roller 123 and the second conveying roller 124, forming a dual-belt synchronous conveying structure. At least one of the first conveying roller 123 and the second conveying roller 124 is a drive roller for driving the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 to rotate. In this embodiment, the second conveying roller 124 can be a drive roller. One end of the second conveying roller 124 can be connected to a drive motor, which is fixed on the bracket 110. The drive motor can drive the second conveying roller 124 to rotate directly or through a reducer, thereby driving the first annular belt 1211, the second annular belt 1212, and the first conveying roller 123 to rotate synchronously through friction, so as to achieve stable delivery of packages. In other embodiments, the first conveying roller 123 can also be set as a drive roller, or both the first conveying roller 123 and the second conveying roller 124 can be set as drive rollers to achieve synchronous driving of the two rollers and further improve the synchronicity of the delivery. The cooperation of the first conveyor roller 123, the second conveyor roller 124, and the drive motor can form a stable synchronous conveying structure with the double annular belts, ensuring that the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 rotate at the same speed, avoiding deviation and jamming during package conveying, and ensuring that the package can accurately pass through the inkjet area above the gap 122. The combination of the drive motor and the reducer can achieve precise adjustment of the conveying speed to adapt to the conveying needs of packages of different sizes and weights, while reducing vibration during the conveying process and reducing inkjet marking misalignment caused by vibration. Whether it is a single-roller drive or a double-roller synchronous drive design, it can simplify the transmission mechanism, reduce the difficulty of equipment assembly and maintenance costs, and further improve the operational stability of the conveying component 120.

[0030] The conveying assembly 120 also includes a third conveying roller 125 and a fourth conveying roller 126. The third conveying roller 125 is located within the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 and abuts against the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 respectively. The third conveying roller 125 is located below the first conveying roller 123. The fourth conveying roller 126 is located within the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 and abuts against the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 respectively. The fourth conveying roller 126 is located below the second conveying roller 124. Both the third conveying roller 125 and the fourth conveying roller 126 are rotatably connected to the bracket 110, and their axes are arranged parallel to each other in the transverse direction. The third conveying roller 125 is the front lower support roller, and the fourth conveying roller 126 is the rear lower support roller. Both are used to tension the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 to prevent the conveyor belt 121 from becoming loose or slipping during operation and to ensure conveying stability. The third conveyor roller 125 and the fourth conveyor roller 126 cooperate with the first annular belt 1211, the second annular belt 1212, the first conveyor roller 123, and the second conveyor roller 124. The two lower support rollers support and tension the front and rear ends of the double annular belts respectively, effectively preventing the double annular belts from loosening and slipping due to stress during long-term operation. This ensures that the conveying surface 1210 of the double annular belts remains flat, thereby ensuring a constant distance between the bottom of the package and the inkjet end of the marking component 130, improving the consistency of inkjet marking. At the same time, the setting of the lower support rollers can distribute the stress on the double annular belts, reduce the wear of the annular belts, extend their service life, and reduce the maintenance cost of the equipment. In addition, the lower support rollers cooperate with the front and rear conveyor rollers to form a complete conveying support structure, further improving the stability of package conveying and avoiding marking misalignment caused by conveying vibration. Viewed along the transverse axis, the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 together enclose a receiving space 127. The marking component 130 is located within the receiving space 127. The receiving space 127 can completely enclose the marking component 130, effectively isolating dust and debris in the logistics scenario and preventing them from entering the marking component 130 and affecting inkjet accuracy and equipment lifespan, thus providing good protection. At the same time, the receiving space 127 makes full use of the idle area between the two annular belts, eliminating the need for additional installation space for the marking component 130, further improving the structural compactness of the sorting machine 100 and reducing the equipment's footprint. In addition, the marking component 130 is built into the receiving space 127, which can prevent collisions with external components, reduce the risk of failure during equipment operation, and improve the overall operational stability of the equipment.

[0031] To prevent the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 from deviating laterally during operation and to ensure a constant gap 122 width, thereby guaranteeing the accuracy of inkjet marking, both the first conveyor roller 123 and the second conveyor roller 124 are provided with a first annular groove 1231. The inner side of the first annular belt 1211 is provided with a first limiting protrusion 12111, which cooperates with the two first annular grooves 1231 to limit the axial position of the first annular belt 1211 along the transverse axis. And / or both the first conveyor roller 123 and the second conveyor roller 124 are provided with a second annular groove 1243, and the inner side of the second annular belt 1212 is provided with a second limiting protrusion 12121, which cooperates with the two second annular grooves 1243 to limit the axial position of the second annular belt 1212 along the transverse axis. Both the first annular groove 1231 and the second annular groove 1243 are arranged in a closed loop around the circumference of the conveyor roller. The first limiting protrusion 12111 is arranged in a closed loop around the inner side of the first annular belt 1211, and the second limiting protrusion 12121 is arranged in a closed loop around the inner side of the second annular belt 1212. The limiting protrusions are embedded in the corresponding annular grooves. During the operation of the conveyor belt 121, the annular grooves limit the lateral movement of the limiting protrusions, preventing the annular belt from shifting or deviating along the axial direction. This ensures that the width of the gap 122 between the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 remains constant, preventing problems such as incomplete inkjet marking or missed printing due to gap deviation, and improving marking stability. The first annular groove 1231, the second annular groove 1243, the first limiting protrusion 12111, and the second limiting protrusion 12121 respectively cooperate with the first annular belt 1211, the second annular belt 1212, the first conveyor roller 123, and the second conveyor roller 124. Through the embedded cooperation of the limiting protrusion and the annular groove, the lateral position of the double annular belt can be precisely limited, effectively preventing the double annular belt from moving or deviating axially during high-speed operation, ensuring that the width of the gap 122 remains constant, thereby ensuring that the inkjet range of the marking component 130 always covers the bottom of the package, preventing problems such as missed printing and incomplete marking. At the same time, this cooperation structure does not require additional guide components, simplifying the equipment structure and reducing assembly difficulty. The circumferential closed-loop setting of the limiting protrusion and the annular groove can achieve full circumferential limiting, ensuring uniform limiting effect, avoiding excessive local force that could cause wear on the annular belt or conveyor roller, and extending the service life of the equipment.

[0032] The marking component 130 includes a sensing module 131, an inkjet module 132, and a photocuring module 133. The sensing module 131, the inkjet module 132, and the photocuring module 133 are arranged sequentially along the conveying direction of the conveying component 120, that is, along the conveying direction of the package from the first position 1291 to the second position 1292, the sequence is sensing module 131, inkjet module 132, and photocuring module 133. The sensing end, inkjet end, and light-emitting end of the three are all facing upwards and directly opposite the gap 122. The sensing module 131 is used to sense the package above it, the inkjet module 132 is used to mark the package above it with inkjet based on the sensing result of the sensing module 131, and the photocuring module 133 is used to photocur the ink of the inkjet marking. The three work together to realize the continuous operation of "package sensing - precise inkjet - ink curing". The sensing module 131 accurately captures the timing of the package's arrival and provides the inkjet module 132 with an accurate inkjet trigger signal to avoid missed or wrong marking and improve the accuracy of the marking position. After the inkjet module 132 completes the marking, the photocuring module 133 immediately cures the ink to prevent the ink from being scratched or falling off during subsequent conveying, sorting and delivery, and to ensure the integrity and durability of the marking. All three are set directly opposite the gap 122 and cooperate with the gap 122 formed by the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 to ensure that the sensing, inkjet and curing actions can be accurately applied to the bottom of the package, further improving the marking quality. At the same time, the continuous operation process does not require manual intervention, which improves the efficiency of package marking and adapts to the high-frequency operation requirements of logistics scenarios.

[0033] The sensing module 131 can be a photoelectric sensing module. In this embodiment, the sensing module 131 can include a through-beam photoelectric sensor. The transmitting end and receiving end of the photoelectric sensor are respectively located on the lateral sides of the gap 122. When the package passes over the sensing module 131, the through-beam light path is blocked, and the sensing module 131 generates a trigger signal and sends it to the inkjet module 132. In other embodiments, the sensing module 131 can also be a diffuse reflection photoelectric sensor, which is directly installed below the gap 122 to identify the position of the package by the reflected light signal. Alternatively, an infrared sensing sensor can be used to identify the position of the package by whether or not the infrared signal is reflected. When the sensing module 131 adopts a through-beam photoelectric sensor, the transmitting end and the receiving end of the through-beam photoelectric sensor are respectively located on both sides of the gap 122 formed by the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212. The light path passes through the gap 122. When the package passes through, it can quickly block the light path, triggering the signal response speed quickly, improving the accuracy and timeliness of package arrival recognition. At the same time, the gap 122 provides an unobstructed transmission channel for the light path, avoiding the conveyor belt 121 or other components from blocking the light path, ensuring the recognition stability of the sensing module 131, reducing false triggering or missed triggering, and thus ensuring the accurate inkjet timing of the inkjet module 132 and improving the reliability of marking. The sorting machine 100 can also integrate a speed sensor, which is used to monitor the running speed of the conveyor belt 121 in real time. The controller 140 can calculate the inkjet delay time based on the running speed of the conveyor belt 121 and the conveying distance between the sensing module 131 and the inkjet module 132. When the sensing module 131 senses that the package is in place, the controller 140 delays the previously calculated inkjet delay time and controls the inkjet module 132 to start inkjet printing. This ensures that the printing area of ​​the package is accurately aligned with the inkjet module 132 to complete the inkjet printing, thereby improving the accuracy of the marking position and avoiding marking misalignment or missed printing. By accurately calculating the inkjet delay time through the controller 140, the precise linkage of "sensing-delay-inkjet" is achieved, effectively avoiding marking misalignment or missed printing caused by changes in conveyor belt speed or package position deviation, further improving the accuracy of the marking position. At the same time, this cooperative structure does not require manual adjustment of the delay time and can adapt to changes in conveyor belt speed, improving the automation level and adaptability of the equipment.

[0034] The inkjet module 132 includes a first printhead 1321 and a second printhead 1322. The ink ejected by the first printhead 1321 is of a different color than that ejected by the second printhead 1322. The sensing module 131 can sense the color of the outer packaging of the package, and the inkjet module 132 selects the printhead with an ink color different from that of the outer packaging to mark the package. In this solution, the controller 140 automatically switches to the appropriate printhead according to the background color, so that the ink color and the background color of the package form a strong contrast. This completely solves the problem of low recognition and ineffective identification of markings caused by similar background and ink colors in related technologies. The dual-color printhead setting eliminates the need for manual replacement of ink or printheads and can adapt to different colored outer packaging, improving the adaptability and marking efficiency of the equipment. At the same time, this cooperative structure, in conjunction with the sensing module 131 and the inkjet module 132, realizes the automated operation of "color recognition - printhead switching - precise inkjet", further improving the standardization and reliability of marking. The UV curing module 133 may include at least one set of UV curing lamps, or a combination of UV curing lamps and a reflector. The light-emitting surface of the UV curing lamps is positioned directly opposite the gap 122. When a package marked with inkjet ink passes over the UV curing module 133, the ultraviolet light emitted by the UV curing lamps shines through the gap 122 onto the ink markings on the bottom of the package, instantly curing the ink. This prevents the ink from being smudged or detached during subsequent conveying and sorting processes, ensuring the integrity and durability of the markings. The UV curing lamps, the reflector, and the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 form a [missing information - likely a specific structure or feature]. The gaps 122 work together, with the light-emitting surface of the UV curing lamp facing the gap 122, allowing ultraviolet light to accurately pass through the gap 122 and illuminate the ink markings on the bottom of the package, achieving instant curing of the ink. The reflector can reflect and concentrate the ultraviolet light emitted by the UV curing lamp, improving the utilization rate of ultraviolet light, shortening the curing time, and improving work efficiency. At the same time, it reduces the leakage of ultraviolet light and reduces the impact on the surrounding environment and operators. This structure, together with the inkjet module 132 and the gap 122, forms a closed loop of "inkjet-curing", further improving the marking quality and work continuity.

[0035] The first annular belt 1211 includes a first conveyor wall 12112 located at the upper end for conveying packages, and the second annular belt 1212 includes a second conveyor wall 12122 located at the upper end for conveying packages. The first conveyor wall 12112 and the second conveyor wall 12122 are arranged opposite each other with a lateral spacing. The first conveyor wall 12112 is inclined in a direction toward the second conveyor wall 12122, and the second conveyor wall 12122 is inclined in a direction toward the first conveyor wall 12112, so that the distance between the first conveyor wall 12112 and the second conveyor wall 12122 gradually increases from bottom to top. On the first conveyor roller 123, the second conveyor roller 124, the third conveyor roller 125, and the fourth conveyor roller 126, the roller segments that cooperate with the first annular belt 1211 and the roller segments that cooperate with the second annular belt 1212 can all be configured with a suitable conical structure, so that the upper first conveying wall 12112 of the first annular belt 1211 and the upper second conveying wall 12122 of the second annular belt 1212 form a small V-shaped angle. The angle range can be between 1° and 5°. The specific angle size can be adjusted according to the package size or the package weight to improve the centering effect. In other embodiments, the first conveying wall 12112 and the second conveying wall 12122 can also be set on the same horizontal plane. The first conveyor wall 12112 and the second conveyor wall 12122 are inclined to form a V-shaped structure. This V-shaped structure works in conjunction with the first annular belt 1211, the second annular belt 1212, and the conical structure. The V-shaped structure utilizes the lateral component of gravity and the conveying power to make the package automatically move towards the middle gap 122 area. No matter how the initial placement position of a small package is offset, it can automatically center itself during the conveying process, ensuring that the package can pass through the inkjet area completely, fundamentally avoiding the problem of missing prints. The conical structure, in conjunction with the inclined conveyor wall, can accurately support the double annular belts, ensuring the stability of the V-shaped angle and preventing the deformation of the annular belts from reducing the centering effect. In particular, the first conveyor roller 123 can be a roller that is thick at both ends and thin in the middle. Thus, after the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 are fitted onto the first conveyor roller 123, they can naturally form a V-shaped structure, allowing the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 to be driven by a single roller simultaneously, without the need for two rollers arranged at an angle.With this V-shaped structure, packages on conveyor belt 121 will automatically move towards the middle area of ​​the two circular belts under the combined action of gravity and the lateral component of the transmission force of conveyor belt 121. No matter how the initial placement position of a small package is offset, it can automatically center itself during the conveying process, ensuring that the package can pass completely through the inkjet area above the gap 122. This fundamentally avoids the problem of missing printing due to the misalignment of small packages, and prevents subsequent package marking misalignment and systemic errors caused by the missing printing of a single package. At the same time, compared with the solution of adding elastic baffles to guide centering in related technologies, this solution does not require additional components, will not generate reverse friction force on the package, will not affect the conveying efficiency of the package, and has no additional vulnerable parts, resulting in higher equipment operating stability.

[0036] The conveying assembly 120 also includes a third annular belt 1213, which is located between the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212, and is located at the front end of the marking assembly 130. Here, the front end refers to the side close to the first position 1291 along the package conveying direction. That is, the third annular belt 1213 is located upstream of the inkjet module 132. The package is first adjusted by the third annular belt 1213 and then enters the inkjet marking area. The third annular belt 1213 can transport packages by rotating synchronously with the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212. The third annular belt 1213 is also sleeved on the first conveyor roller 123 and the second conveyor roller 124, and is driven synchronously by the drive roller, rotating at the same speed as the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212. The upper surface of the third annular belt 1213 is at the same level as the conveying surface 1210 of the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212, which is used to fill the front gap between the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212, and prevent the package from slipping or getting stuck due to friction between the middle gap and the table during the conveying process. Especially for soft packaging and ultra-thin packaging, it can effectively improve the smoothness of the conveying. At the same time, there is no need to add an additional independent drive component, simplifying the equipment structure. The synchronous rotation of the third annular belt 1213 and the double annular belts can also ensure that the package conveying speed is consistent, avoid the package deviation due to speed difference, and further ensure the centering effect of the package. The sorting machine 100 can also be equipped with a position detection component 150. When the position detection component 150 detects that the package is off-center, the third annular belt 1213 is driven to rotate in the opposite direction to the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212, so that the third annular belt 1213 and one of the first annular belt 1211 or the second annular belt 1212 jointly drive the package to rotate. When the package rotates to a position close to the center, the third annular belt 1213 is driven to rotate synchronously with the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212. The third annular belt 1213 is driven by an independent fifth conveyor roller and an independent drive motor, enabling independent control of forward rotation, reverse rotation, and stop. The position detection component 150 may include multiple sets of photoelectric sensors arranged laterally, or it may include a visual recognition sensor, located above or below the third annular belt 1213, for real-time detection of the lateral position of the package on the conveyor belt 121. When the position detection component 150 detects that the package has deviated from the center position to the left, the controller 140 controls the third annular belt 1213 to rotate in the opposite direction. At this time, the first annular belt 1211 on the left conveys forward, and the third annular belt 1213 in the middle conveys in the opposite direction. The resulting frictional torque causes the package to deflect to the right until the position detection component 150 detects that the package is centered. Then, the controller 140 controls the third annular belt 1213 to switch to forward synchronous rotation to continue conveying the package. When the package deviates from the center position to the right, the reverse rotation causes the package to deflect to the left and center.The third annular belt 1213 adopts an independent drive mode. The position detection component 150, the controller 140, the third annular belt 1213, the first annular belt 1211, and the second annular belt 1212 cooperate with each other. The position detection component 150 detects the package position in real time, and the controller 140 controls the forward and reverse rotation of the third annular belt 1213 according to the detection results. The friction torque between the third annular belt 1213 and the double annular belts drives the package to deflect and center, realizing dynamic and accurate correction of the package. It is suitable for packages with heavy weight and irregular shape, and solves the problem of packages being difficult to center accurately. The independent drive design of the third annular belt 1213 can flexibly adjust the rotation direction and speed, with high correction accuracy and fast response speed, ensuring that the package printing area is accurately centered, improving the regularity of marking. This cooperative structure can be used with the V-shaped structure to form a dual guarantee of "passive centering + active correction", further avoiding the problems of missed printing and marking misalignment, and improving the adaptability and marking reliability of the equipment.

[0037] The signal receiving module 160 also includes a sensing component, which is located above the conveying component 120 and is used to detect the number of packages passing by laterally. Along the conveying direction of the conveying component 120, the sensing component is positioned flush with the sensing module 131. When the sensing component detects a package but the sensing module 131 does not detect a package, the signal receiving module 160 deletes the address information of the corresponding package. The sensing component can be a transverse through-beam photoelectric sensor, whose detection range completely covers the entire transverse width of the conveyor belt 121, and can detect all passing packages, regardless of whether the package is in the center position. The detection range of the sensing module 131 corresponds to the inkjet area of ​​the gap 122, and can only detect packages directly facing the inkjet area. When a small package is transversely offset and passes through the detection area, the sensing component can detect the package passing by, but the sensing module 131 does not detect the package, indicating that the package has not passed through the inkjet area, resulting in a missed print. At this time, the signal receiving module 160 immediately deletes the address information corresponding to the package from the sequence, and the processing module 170 skips the generation of the package number. The numbers and address information of subsequent packages can still maintain a one-to-one correspondence, completely solving the systemic error problem of misalignment of all subsequent packages due to a single missed print. Moreover, only one additional sensing component is needed, the equipment structure is simple, the modification cost is low, and the error prevention effect is significant.

[0038] This embodiment also provides a sorting system 200, which includes the sorting machine 100 described above, as well as a distribution mechanism 210 and a receiving mechanism 220. The distribution mechanism 210 is used to convey packages to the sorting machine 100. The distribution mechanism 210 can be a feeding conveyor belt, a robotic arm feeding mechanism, a barcode scanning feeding mechanism, etc., or it can be a manual feeding platform with a conveyor roller. It is located at the front end of the first position 1291 of the sorting machine 100 and is used to orderly and one by one send the packages to be sorted and marked into the conveying component 120 of the sorting machine 100, so as to avoid the conveying jam and marking misalignment caused by package accumulation and improve the feeding efficiency. The collection mechanism 220 is used to classify and collect the inkjet-marked packages. The collection mechanism 220 can be a multi-compartment sorting system, multiple sets of collection conveyor belts, a sorting wheel mechanism, or a classification collection basket with a pushing mechanism. Located at the rear end of the second position 1292 of the sorting machine 100, it can classify and collect packages of different types, delivery routes, and addresses into corresponding compartments based on the inkjet marking information, achieving fully automated integrated marking and sorting operations. The sorting machine 100, the distribution mechanism 210, and the collection mechanism 220 work together to form a fully automated "feeding-marking-sorting-collection" process, requiring no manual intervention. This meets the high-frequency, high-efficiency operational needs of logistics sorting and last-mile delivery scenarios, while reducing labor costs and improving operational standardization and uniformity.

[0039] The following provides a complete solution for a last-mile delivery scenario. The sorting system 200 includes a support frame 110 and a double-ring belt conveyor assembly 120. The double-ring belt conveyor assembly 120 includes a first ring belt 1211, a second ring belt 1212, a third ring belt 1213, a first conveyor roller 123, a second conveyor roller 124, a third conveyor roller 125, a fourth conveyor roller 126, a first limiting protrusion 12111, a second limiting protrusion 12121, a first annular groove 1231, and a second annular groove 1243. The first limiting protrusion 12111 engages with the first annular groove 1231, and the second limiting protrusion 12121 engages with the second annular groove 1243. It also includes a V-shaped conveyor wall and a marking assembly 130. The marking assembly 130 includes a through-beam photoelectric sensor module 131, a speed sensor, a color recognition sensor, a first nozzle 1321, a second nozzle 1322, a UV curing lamp, and a reflector. It also includes a signal receiving module 160, a processing module 170, and a controller 140. Additionally, it includes a feeding conveyor belt-type distribution mechanism 210 and a multi-compartment storage mechanism 220. It is adapted to last-mile delivery scenarios. Its complete working process is as follows.

[0040] Equipment startup and parameter preset stage. After the sorting system 200 starts, the drive motor drives the second conveyor roller 124 to rotate, which in turn drives the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212 to rotate synchronously and at a constant speed. The first conveyor roller 123, the second conveyor roller 124, the third conveyor roller 125, and the fourth conveyor roller 126 cooperate to tension the conveyor belt 121, ensuring smooth conveying. The preset gap 122 width is 100mm. The preset distance between the inkjet end of the marking component 130 and the conveyor surface 1210 is 10mm, which is the optimal printing distance for inkjet ink. The included angle of the V-shaped conveyor wall is set to 3°. The preset numbering rule is "numbered according to the delivery route sequence". The signal receiving module 160 establishes communication with the express delivery network logistics system to obtain the address information and corresponding delivery route of the packages to be delivered.

[0041] Package loading and conveying stage. The distribution mechanism 210, i.e., the loading conveyor belt, orderly and sequentially feeds packages to be marked and sorted into the first position 1291 of the sorting machine 100, i.e., the loading position. The packages land on the V-shaped conveyor wall of the first annular belt 1211 and the second annular belt 1212. Under the combined action of gravity and the lateral component of the transmission force of the conveyor belt 121, regardless of whether the initial placement position of the package is offset, it automatically moves towards the center of the gap 122 area. Then, it is conveyed at a uniform speed to the second position 1292, i.e., the unloading position, along with the conveyor belt 121. During the conveying process, the first limiting protrusion 12111 of the first annular belt 1211 is embedded in the first annular groove 1231 of the first conveyor roller 123 and the second conveyor roller 124. The second limiting protrusion 12121 of the second annular belt 1212 is embedded in the second annular groove 1243 of the second conveyor roller 124. This prevents the conveyor belt 121 from deviating laterally and ensures that the width of the gap 122 remains constant.

[0042] Package sensing and parameter detection stage. When the package passes over the sensing module 131, the light path of the through-beam photoelectric sensor is blocked. The sensing module 131 immediately generates a package arrival trigger signal. Simultaneously, the integrated speed sensor collects the real-time running speed of the conveyor belt 121. The color recognition sensor identifies the background color of the package's outer packaging. The sensing module 131 sends the trigger signal, conveyor belt 121 speed data, and background color information to the processing module 170. The processing module 170 calculates the inkjet delay time based on the transmission distance between the sensing module 131 and the inkjet module 132. Simultaneously, according to a preset numbering rule and the delivery route corresponding to the package address information, it generates a delivery number for the package.

[0043] Precision inkjet marking stage. After processing module 170 calculates the inkjet delay time, it sends an inkjet command to inkjet module 132. The corresponding printhead is activated based on the package's background color. Ink is precisely jetted onto the bottom of the package through gap 122, printing the corresponding number. This ensures a strong contrast between the marking and the background color, improving readability.

[0044] Ink curing stage. Packages marked with inkjet printing continue to be conveyed forward on conveyor belt 121. When passing above the curing module 133, the UV curing lamp is activated. Ultraviolet light is emitted through gap 122 and shines onto the ink markings on the bottom of the package, instantly curing the ink. This prevents the markings from being scratched or detached during subsequent conveying and sorting, ensuring the integrity and durability of the markings.

[0045] The process of sorting, storing, and transferring packages begins. Once the labels are fixed, the packages are transported to location 1292, the unloading position. The storage mechanism 220, the multi-compartment sorting station, then identifies the corresponding delivery route based on the number on the bottom of the package. The corresponding compartment's baffle opens, and the package is placed into the appropriate compartment for sorting. Subsequently, couriers can quickly sort packages according to the corresponding compartment numbers, eliminating the need to repeatedly check package addresses and improving last-mile delivery efficiency.

[0046] The entire process requires no manual intervention. It achieves fully automated operation of packages, from automatic feeding, centering and correction, precise sensing, inkjet printing adaptation, and ink curing, to sorting and storage. This not only solves many shortcomings of existing marking methods but also improves sorting and delivery efficiency, adapting to the actual needs of last-mile delivery in the express delivery industry.

[0047] It should be noted that if directional indications (such as up, down, left, right, front, back, etc.) are involved in the embodiments of the present invention, these directional indications are only used to explain the relative positional relationships and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly. When a direction reference is introduced in a specific embodiment, unless the direction is specifically limited to unidirectional, the direction can be unidirectional or bidirectional (two parallel and opposite directions). Whether it is unidirectional or bidirectional depends on what those skilled in the art can achieve. When the direction reference is bidirectional, it should be considered that two parallel and different embodiments have been introduced simultaneously.

[0048] Furthermore, if the embodiments of this invention involve descriptions such as "first" or "second," these descriptions are for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of those features. Additionally, the use of "and / or," "and / or," or "and / or" throughout the text implies three parallel solutions. For example, "A and / or B" includes solution A, solution B, or a solution where both A and B are satisfied simultaneously. Furthermore, the technical solutions of the various embodiments can be combined with each other, but this must be based on the ability of those skilled in the art to implement them. When the combination of technical solutions is contradictory or impossible to implement, it should be considered that such a combination of technical solutions does not exist and is not within the scope of protection claimed by this invention.

[0049] The above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not limit the scope of the patent. Any equivalent structural transformations made using the contents of the specification and drawings of the present invention under the inventive concept of the present invention, or direct / indirect applications in other related technical fields, are included within the scope of patent protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A sorting machine for marking parcels for last-mile delivery, characterized in that, The sorting machine includes: support; A conveying assembly, connected to the support, is adapted to convey the package to be marked; A marking component, connected to the support, the marking component being adapted to mark the package; A signal receiving and processing component is connected to the bracket and communicatively connected to the marking component. The signal receiving and processing component includes a receiving module and a processing module. The receiving module is used to receive the address information of each package that is sequentially transmitted by the transmitting component. The receiving module is also used to receive a numbering rule. The processing module outputs a number according to the address information and the numbering rule. The marking component marks the package with inkjet ink according to the number.

2. The sorting machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The sorting machine is used in the sorting system, and the receiving module is used to receive the address sequence of each package that is synchronously transmitted from the sorting system to each package that is transmitted to the conveying component. The address sequence includes the address information of each package arranged in the transmission order. or, The receiving module includes a signal reading mechanism, which sequentially reads the tag information of each package passing through the first location to obtain the address information of each package.

3. The sorting machine as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The conveying assembly includes a conveyor belt adapted to convey a package to be marked from a first position to a second position, and the conveyor belt has a gap between the first position and the second position. The marking component is located below the conveying surface of the conveyor belt, and the marking component is adapted to inkjet mark the bottom of the package to be marked passing above it through the gap.

4. The sorting machine as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The conveyor belt includes a plurality of gap holes spaced apart along its own conveying direction, and the marking assembly includes a plurality of nozzles spaced apart along the conveying direction of the conveyor belt, wherein the spacing of each nozzle is set such that at least one nozzle is exposed in one of the gap holes during the rotation of the conveyor belt.

5. The sorting machine as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The conveyor belt includes a first annular belt and a second annular belt. Both the first annular belt and the second annular belt are arranged around a transverse axis, and the first annular belt and the second annular belt are spaced apart in the transverse direction. The gap is located between the first annular belt and the second annular belt.

6. The sorting machine as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The conveying assembly further includes a first conveying roller and a second conveying roller; The first conveyor roller is located within the first annular belt and the second annular belt and abuts against the sides of the first annular belt and the second annular belt near the first position, respectively; the second conveyor roller is located within the first annular belt and the second annular belt and abuts against the sides of the first annular belt and the second annular belt near the second position, respectively. At least one of the first conveyor roller and the second conveyor roller is a drive roller for driving the first annular belt and the second annular belt to rotate.

7. The sorting machine as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The marking component includes a sensing module, an inkjet module, and a photocuring module, which are arranged sequentially along the conveying direction of the conveying component. The sensing module is used to sense the package above it, the inkjet module is used to mark the package above it with inkjet based on the sensing module, and the photocuring module is used to perform photocuring treatment on the inkjet marking ink. The inkjet module includes a first printhead and a second printhead. The ink ejected by the first printhead is of a different color than the ink ejected by the second printhead. The sensing module can sense the color of the outer packaging of the package. The inkjet module selects a printhead with an ink color different from that of the outer packaging to mark the package with inkjet ink.

8. The sorting machine as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The conveying assembly further includes a third annular belt located between the first annular belt and the second annular belt, and the third annular belt is located at the front end of the marking assembly; The third annular belt rotates synchronously with the first and second annular belts to transport the package; or, the sorting machine further includes a position detection component, which, when the position detection component detects that the package is off-center, drives the third annular belt to rotate in the opposite direction to the first and second annular belts, so that the third annular belt drives the package being transported by the first or second annular belt to rotate, and when the package rotates to near the center, the third annular belt is driven to rotate synchronously with the first and second annular belts.

9. The sorting machine as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The receiving module includes a sensing component located above the conveying component and used to detect the number of packages passing by laterally. Along the conveying direction of the conveying component, the sensing component is positioned flush with the sensing module. When the sensing component detects a package but the sensing module does not detect a package, the receiving module deletes the address information corresponding to the package.

10. A sorting system, characterized in that, include: The sorting machine according to any one of claims 1-9, and, A distribution mechanism for conveying the packages to the sorting machine. A storage mechanism for sorting and storing the packages marked with inkjet printing.

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