Tray for logistics sorter and article classification device

Abstract

To provide a tray for physical distribution sorter capable of achieving weight saving.SOLUTION: A tray for physical distribution sorter includes a frame body, first and second pulleys, first and second rotary plates, and a wire. The frame body moves in a predetermined direction on a track of a physical distribution sorter. The first and second pulleys can rotate around a predetermined shaft with respect to the frame body respectively. The first rotary plate rotates according to the rotation of the first pulley. The second rotary plate rotates according to the rotation of the second pulley. The wire is wound around the first pulley and the second pulley. When the wire is unwound from the second pulley and wound by the first pulley, the first and second rotary plates are rotated and closed. When the wire is unwound from the first pulley and wound by the second pulley, the first and second rotary plates are rotated and opened in a double opening state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a tray for a logistics sorter and an article sorting device. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, a tray for a logistics sorter known as a Bombay tray is known. These trays are arranged at appropriate intervals on, for example, a circular track and move in a predetermined direction along the track. These trays form a substantially flat loading surface when loaded with articles and have two halves of a rotating plate that open downwards in a double-door (double-door) manner to sort the articles. This tray uses a link mechanism using a rod to link the opening and closing of the two halves of the rotating plate. When the two halves of the rotating plate open in a double-door manner, the articles placed on the two halves of the rotating plate are sorted into the desired sorting chute located below the tray through the gap between the two halves of the rotating plate. Furthermore, this tray is configured so that when the two halves of the rotating plate are closed, one of the rotating plates abuts against a sloped guide that rises in the direction of travel of the tray, and the other halves close in conjunction with this. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2005-511447 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a tray for a logistics sorter and an article sorting device that can be made lighter. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] According to the embodiment, the tray for a logistics sorter includes a frame body, first and second pulleys, first and second rotating plates, a wire, and , a first buffer section, and a second buffer sectionThe frame body moves in a predetermined direction on the track of the logistics sorter. The first and second pulleys are each rotatable around a predetermined axis relative to the frame body. The first rotating plate rotates as the first pulley rotates. The second rotating plate rotates as the second pulley rotates. The wire is wound around the first pulley and the second pulley. When the wire is unwound from the second pulley and taken up by the first pulley, the first and second rotating plates are rotated to close. When the wire is unwound from the first pulley and taken up by the second pulley, the first and second rotating plates are rotated to open in a double-wing style. The first buffer section is provided between the first pulley and the first frame body and buffers the impact when the first rotating plate opens. The second buffer section is provided between the second pulley and the first frame body and buffers the impact when the second rotating plate opens. The second buffer section has a damper provided between the second pulley and the first frame body and a biasing member provided between the second pulley and the first frame body and biases the second pulley so as to move away from the first pulley. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an article sorting device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view of a tray of the article sorting device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing a part of the tray as viewed from above. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view showing a part of the tray as viewed from below. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of a portion of the tray as viewed from the front (front) side. [Figure 11] 6 is a schematic view of the tray with the first placement section in the closed position, seen from the same direction as FIG. 5. [Figure 12] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of the tray with the first placement portion in the open position, seen from the same direction as FIG. 5. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing a state in which the first placement portion of the tray is switched from an open position to a closed position by the guide path. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] An article sorting device 10 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 13. FIG.

[0008] The article sorting device 10 according to this embodiment includes a physical distribution sorter 12 and a stacking unit 14 disposed adjacent to the physical distribution sorter 12.

[0009] The logistics sorter 12 according to this embodiment is configured as a so-called bomb-bay sorter. The logistics sorter 12 includes a track 22, a control device (item sorting control device) 24, a drive unit 26, an item input unit 28, an information reader 30, and multiple actuators (first switching units) 32. The logistics sorter 12 includes a guide path 34, which switches a lock unit 78 to the locked position, located downstream of the position where the stacking unit 14 is located, between the stacking unit 14 and the item input unit 28. The logistics sorter 12 further includes logistics sorter trays (transport vehicles) 36 that travel on the track 22 of the logistics sorter 12.

[0010] The track 22 has, for example, a pair of rails 22a and 22b. The pair of rails 22a and 22b are formed in a ring shape, for example, spaced a predetermined distance apart. In this embodiment, one rail 22a is on the outside and the other rail 22b is on the inside. A plurality of trays 36 are placed on the pair of rails 22a and 22b in a state straddling the pair of rails 22a and 22b, and the trays 36 circulate along the track 22.

[0011] The control device 24 controls the operation of the drive unit 26, the information reading unit 30, and the actuator 32. The control device 24 includes a processor, a ROM (read-only memory), a RAM (random-access memory), an auxiliary storage device, a communication interface, and an input / output unit. The processor corresponds to the central part of a computer that performs calculations, control, and other processes required for article processing. The processor executes control to realize various functions based on programs such as system software, application software, or firmware stored in at least one of the ROM and the auxiliary storage device. The processor is, for example, a CPU (central processing unit), an MPU (micro processing unit), or a DSP (digital signal processor). Alternatively, the processor is a combination of two or more of these.

[0012] The drive unit 26 moves the plurality of trays 36 in a predetermined direction along the pair of rails 22a, 22b, circulating the trays 36 around the track 22. The drive unit 26 is controlled by the control device 24, which controls the speed at which the trays 36 move.

[0013] The article input section 28 is provided at a predetermined position on the pair of rails 22a, 22b. When the tray 36 is placed in the article input section 28, the articles are placed on the tray 36 by a person or by using an appropriate conveyor or the like.

[0014] The information reading unit 30 is provided adjacent to the downstream side of the article input unit 28. The information reading unit 30 includes, for example, a camera (scanner). The information reading unit 30 takes images of the article from the top, side, and bottom of the article using, for example, the camera, and outputs the image information to the control device 24. The information reading unit 30 also measures the size, shape, weight, etc. of the article being transported, and outputs the article measurement information obtained by the measurements to the control device 24.

[0015] The control device 24 assigns an item detection ID to each detected item based on signals from the information reading unit 30 and item detection signals from the other multiple item detection sensors, and also traces the transport (movement) of each item to detect or estimate the location of each item. The control device 24 also monitors the amount of movement of the pair of rails 22a, 22b based on signals from a rotary encoder that detects the amount of movement of the pair of rails 22a, 22b. For example, the control device 24 detects the number of times the pair of rails 22a, 22b has circulated. The control device 24 can also detect the number of times each item has circulated by combining tracing the transport of each item with monitoring the amount of movement of the pair of rails 22a, 22b.

[0016] The actuator 32 is used as a release mechanism that releases the lock of the locking unit 78. A plurality of actuators 32 are provided on the outside of the rail 22a and the inside of the rail 22b at appropriate intervals along the movement direction of the rails 22a and 22b. In this embodiment, the actuators 32 are arranged facing each other on the outside of the rail 22a and the inside of the rail 22b. The actuators 32 are operated when a locking unit 78 (described later) of the tray 36 is released in accordance with information read by the information reading unit 30.

[0017] The actuator 32 may be, for example, a solenoid that moves upward when energized and returns to its original position by a downward spring force when de-energized. The pair of actuators 32 that face each other across the track 22 are operated independently, but may also be operated simultaneously as necessary.

[0018] The accumulation unit 14 is disposed adjacent to the actuator 32. The accumulation unit 14 includes, for example, a plurality of sorting chutes 42 corresponding to a plurality of sorting destinations, and a chute 44 that sends articles to each of the sorting chutes 42. A pair of chutes 44 is provided between a pair of actuators 32 that face each other across the track 22. The pair of chutes 44 are inclined, for example, with the center between the pair of rails 22a, 22b as a dividing line. The articles from each chute 44 are placed in the classification chute 42.

[0019] Figures 2 to 7 show six views of the tray 36. Figure 2 is a front view, Figure 3 is a rear view, Figure 4 is a left side view, Figure 5 is a right side view, Figure 6 is a plan view, and Figure 7 is a bottom view. An XYZ Cartesian coordinate system is set for the tray 36 as shown in Figures 2 to 7.

[0020] The trays 36 used in the Bombay sorter 12 are formed as Bombay trays whose bottoms (rotating plates 102, 104 described below) can be opened and closed in a double-door (folding) style. The Bombay sorter 12 transports articles, and when the Bombay tray 36 reaches a target sorting chute 42 or a chute 44 that sends articles to the target sorting chute 42, the bottom is opened and the articles are dropped into the target sorting chute 42 or the target chute 44.

[0021] As shown in FIGS. 2 to 7, the tray 36 has a frame 52, first and second movable portions 54a and 54b, first and second placement portions 56a and 56b, and first and second tray covers 58a and 58b.

[0022] The frame 52 of the tray 36 moves in a predetermined direction on the track 22 of the logistics sorter 12. The frame 52 has a first frame body 62 that moves along the outer rail 22a, a second frame body 64 that moves along the inner rail 22b, and first and second shafts 66, 68 that connect the first frame body 62 and the second frame body 64.

[0023] The longitudinal direction of the first and second frame bodies 62, 64 is along the Y-axis. The first frame body 62 is disposed on the +X-axis side relative to the second frame body 64. The first and second shafts 66, 68 are along the X-axis. The first shaft 66 is disposed on the +Y-axis side relative to the second shaft 68.

[0024] The first and second frame bodies 62, 64 are each formed, for example, in the shape of a rectangular prism and are parallel and spaced apart. The first and second frame bodies 62, 64 face each other in the longitudinal direction. The first and second frame bodies 62, 64 each have one end (front end) on the +Y axis side and the other end (rear end) on the -Y axis side. A first shaft 66 is fixed to one end (front end) of each of the first and second frame bodies 62, 64. A second shaft 68 is fixed to the other end (rear end) of each of the first and second frame bodies 62, 64. The first shaft 66 and the second shaft 68 each extend in the X axis direction, i.e., are parallel and spaced apart. The first shaft 66 and the second shaft 68 face each other in the longitudinal direction. For this reason, the frame 52 is formed in a rectangular shape by four members: the first frame body 62, the second frame body 64, the first shaft 66, and the second shaft 68. Therefore, a rectangular space is formed in the frame 52 into which the article is dropped.

[0025] It is preferable that the outer shapes of the first shaft 66 and the second shaft 68 are cylindrical, but as long as the first and second pulleys 72a, 72b described below are rotatable, they may be formed into an appropriate polygonal columnar shape, or may be cylindrical or have an appropriate polygonal tubular shape.

[0026] The first movable part 54a is provided on the first frame body 62. The first movable part 54a is provided between the first frame body 62 and the first mounting part 56a. The second movable part 54b is provided on the second frame body 64. The second movable part 54b is provided between the second frame body 64 and the second mounting part 56b.

[0027] The frame 52, the first and second movable parts 54a, 54b, and the first and second mounting parts 56a, 56b are symmetrical with respect to an imaginary plane parallel to the YZ plane, indicated by the symbol PS in Figures 2, 3, 6, and 7. For this reason, only one side of the first and second movable parts 54a, 54b and the first and second mounting parts 56a, 56b will be described, and the same symbols will be used appropriately in Figures 2 to 7, with the description of the other side being omitted.

[0028] 8 and 9 are perspective views of the tray 36, omitting the first mounting portion 56a and the first tray cover 58a. Fig. 10 is a schematic perspective view of the second frame body 64, the second mounting portion 56b, and the second tray cover 58b, as viewed from the front (front) side. Fig. 11 is a schematic view of the first mounting portion 56a of the tray 36 in a closed position, viewed from the same direction as Fig. 5. Fig. 12 is a schematic view of the first mounting portion 56a of the tray 36 in an open position, viewed from the same direction as Fig. 5. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the transition of the first placement portion 56a of the tray 36 from the open position to the closed position as the first placement portion 56a moves along the guide path 34. As shown in FIG.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 8, the first movable portion 54a has first and second pulleys 72a, 72b, a wire (first wire) 74 connecting the first and second pulleys 72a, 72b, first and second buffer portions 76a, 76b, and a lock portion 78.

[0030] The first pulley 72a has a central axis (rotation axis) that is along the X-axis. The first pulley 72a is arranged concentrically with the first shaft 66 and is rotatable around the axis of the first shaft 66. The second pulley 72b has a central axis (rotation axis) that is along the X-axis. The second pulley 72b is arranged concentrically with the second shaft 68 and is rotatable around the axis of the second shaft 68. It is preferable that the first and second pulleys 72a, 72b have the same outer diameter.

[0031] One end and the other end of the wire 74 are coupled to the first pulley 72a and the second pulley 72b, respectively, so that when the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 rotate about the X-axis, when viewed from a predetermined direction, the second rotating plate 104 rotates counterclockwise when the first rotating plate 102 rotates clockwise, and the second rotating plate 104 rotates clockwise when the first rotating plate 102 rotates counterclockwise. One end of the wire 74 is wound around the outer periphery of the first pulley 72a in a direction opposite to the first direction D1, tangent to the outer periphery of the first pulley 72a in a first direction D1 (see FIGS. 11 and 12) that is the radial direction of the first pulley 72a with respect to the rotation axis of the first pulley 72a. One end of the wire 74 is passed, for example, above the rotation shaft of the first pulley 72a (in a first direction relative to the rotation shaft), and wound downward toward the opposite side from the other end and fixed. The other end of the wire 74 is wound around the outer periphery of the second pulley 72b in a direction tangent to the outer periphery of the second pulley 72b in a second direction D2 (see FIGS. 11 and 12) that is the radial direction of the second pulley 72b relative to the rotation shaft of the second pulley 72b, and wound along the outer periphery of the second pulley 72b in a direction opposite to the second direction D2. The other end of the wire 74 is passed, for example, below the rotation shaft of the second pulley 72b (in the second direction relative to the rotation shaft), and wound upward toward the opposite side from the one end and fixed. The wire 74 is tensioned with an appropriate tension so that the tangent is, for example, the upper side of the first pulley 72a and the lower side of the second pulley 72b.

[0032] The first buffer portion 76a buffers the impact when the first rotating plate 102 opens downward. The first buffer portion 76a has a first damper 82, for example, made of air or oil. One end of the first damper 82 is supported by a bracket 82a fixed to one end of the first frame body 62, and the other end of the first damper 82 is supported by the first pulley 72a. Therefore, the first buffer portion 76a suppresses sudden rotation of the first pulley 72a.

[0033] The second buffering portion 76b buffers the impact when the second pivot plate 104 opens downward. The second buffering portion 76b includes a second damper 84, for example, made of air or oil, and a biasing member 86, such as a spring. One end of the second damper 84 is supported by a bracket 84a fixed to the other end of the first frame body 62, and the other end of the second damper 84 is supported by the second pulley 72b. One end of the biasing member 86 is supported by the first frame body 62, and the other end of the biasing member 86 is supported by the second pulley 72b. The biasing member 86 is, for example, a tension coil spring. That is, the biasing member 86 is provided between the second pulley 72b and the first frame body 62, and pulls the second pulley 72b toward the first pulley 72a, applying an appropriate tension to the wire 74.

[0034] A wire cover 88 is disposed between the brackets 82a and 84a. As an example, the wire cover 88 is a sheath (tube) through which the wire 74 is inserted. One end of the wire cover 88 is supported by the first frame body 62 or the bracket 82a, and the other end of the wire cover 88 is supported by the first frame body 62 or the bracket 84a. Because the brackets 82a and 84a are fixed to the first frame body 62, the wire cover 88 is supported so as not to move relative to the first frame body 62.

[0035] The wire cover 88 allows the wire 74 to move relative to the wire cover 88 in the axial direction of the wire 74. When the wire 74 moves along the wire cover 88, the wire cover 88 covers the outer periphery of the wire 74. Note that instead of a sheath, the wire cover 88 may be formed, for example, as a recessed groove formed in the first frame body 62 or a half pipe supported by the first frame body 62. When the wire cover 88 is formed as a recessed groove, it may be formed, for example, in the first frame body 62.

[0036] The locking portion 78 is provided between one end and the other end of the first frame body 62. The locking portion 78 is provided at a position facing the outer rail 22a. The locking portion 78 has a rotating lever 92, a biasing member 94, and an engaging member 96 that rotates together with the rotating lever 92.

[0037] The locking section 78 is provided on the first frame body 62 and is switchable between a locked position in which the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 are locked in a closed position so that an item can be placed on the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104, and an unlocked position in which the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 are unlocked in an open position so that an item can be dropped between the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104.

[0038] The rotating lever 92 is rotatable around an axis that is, for example, along the vertical direction (Z-axis) of the first frame body 62. The rotating lever 92 protrudes to the outside of the first frame body 62 (in the -X-axis direction relative to the first frame body 62). The rotating lever 92 is capable of coming into contact with or avoiding contact with the actuator 32 depending on the state of the actuator 32.

[0039] The biasing member 94 biases the rotating lever 92 in a predetermined direction. The biasing member 94 biases the rotating lever 92 in a state in which the rotating lever 92 protrudes outward from the first frame body 62.

[0040] The engaging body 96 is integrated with the rotating lever 92. The engaging body 96 is engageable with the first mounting portion 56a. The engaging body 96 has an inclined surface, and an engaging piece 108a (described later) is movable between an engaging position (locked position) and a disengaging position (unlocked position).

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 2 to 7, the first loading section 56a has two divided rotating plates 102, 104 that form a substantially flat loading surface when an article is loaded thereon and that open downward in a double-hinged manner when sorting the articles. One of the two divided rotating plates 102, 104 is referred to as the first rotating plate 102, and the other is referred to as the second rotating plate 104. The first rotating plate 102 is disposed between the first rotating plate 102 and the first frame body 62 and has a first pulley 72a. The first rotating plate 102 is fixed to the first pulley 72a and is rotatable together with the first pulley 72a around the axis of the first shaft 66. The second rotating plate 104 is disposed between the first frame body 62 and has a second pulley 72b. The second rotating plate 104 is fixed to the second pulley 72b and is rotatable together with the second pulley 72b around the axis of the second shaft 68. The first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 are formed, for example, to have substantially the same shape and substantially the same size.

[0042] When the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 of the first mounting portion 56a are in the closed position, they close approximately half of the opening on the inside of the frame 52. When the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 of the first mounting portion 56a are in the open position, they open approximately half of the opening on the inside of the frame 52.

[0043] The first rotating plate 102 has a first fitting member 102a. The first fitting member 102a is provided on the end surface of the first rotating plate 102 opposite the first shaft 66. The second rotating plate 104 has a second fitting member 104a. The second fitting member 104a is provided on the end surface of the second rotating plate 104 opposite the second shaft 68. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the first fitting member 102a and the second fitting member 104a are fitted together when the first mounting portion 56a is in the closed position, and are separated from each other when the first mounting portion 56a is in the open position.

[0044] When the wire 74 is unwound from the second pulley 72b and wound around the first pulley 72a, the first and second rotating plates 102, 104 are rotated and closed relative to the first and second shafts 66, 68. The state of the first mounting portion 56a at this time is referred to as the closed position. When the first mounting portion 56a is in the closed position, an article can be placed on the first and second rotating plates 102, 104.

[0045] When the wire 74 is unwound from the first pulley 72a and wound around the second pulley 72b, the first and second rotating plates 102, 104 open in a predetermined direction (downward) relative to the first and second shafts 66, 68. The state of the first mounting portion 56a at this time is referred to as the open position. When the first mounting portion 56a is in the open position, an article can be dropped between the first and second rotating plates 102, 104. Therefore, when the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 are in the open position, this refers to a state in which a space is formed between the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 for dropping an article.

[0046] In the tray 36 shown in FIGS. 2 to 7, the second placement portion 56b is in a closed position, and the first placement portion 56a is in an open position.

[0047] The first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 of the first mounting portion 56a each have a pair of protruding plates 106a and 106b. The protruding plates 106a and 106b protrude from the article mounting surface of the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 of the first mounting portion 56a. One of the protruding plates (partition wall) 106a is provided on the end surface of the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 on the first movable portion 54a side, i.e., on the first frame body 62 side (+X axis side), and forms a partition wall between the first frame body 62 and the first movable portion 54a and the article. The other protruding plate 106b is provided on the end surface of the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 on the second movable portion 54b side, i.e., on the second frame body 64 side (-X axis side), and forms a partition wall between the second mounting portion 56b. In the closed position, the protruding height (height in the Z-axis direction) of one protruding plate 106a relative to the first rotating plate 102 is greater than the protruding height (height in the Z-axis direction) of the other protruding plate 106b.

[0048] A buffer 108 is provided on the first rotating plate 102. The buffer 108 is made of, for example, polyamide synthetic resin (nylon). The buffer 108 is provided on or near the end of the back side of the first rotating plate 102, opposite the side supported by the first shaft 66. The buffer 108 is formed with a width smaller than the width of the first rotating plate 102 and is provided in a position close to the first frame body 62 and the first movable part 54a. The buffer 108 is provided with an engaging element 108a that engages with the engaging element 96 of the locking part 78. The engaging element 108a has a central axis along the X-axis and is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape that protrudes in the +X-axis direction relative to the buffer 108 and the protruding plate 106a. The distal end surface of the engaging element 108a relative to the buffer 108 is positioned so as not to reach the first frame body 62.

[0049] The pair of wheels 112, 114 are provided on the first frame body 62 at a position facing the rail 22a. One wheel 112 is provided at one end of the first frame body 62, and the other wheel 114 is provided at the other end. The pair of wheels 112, 114 have a rotation axis in a direction along the X-axis.

[0050] The pair of guide wheels 116, 118 are provided on the first frame body 62 at a position facing the rail 22a. The guide wheel 116 is provided adjacent to the wheel 112 at one end of the first frame body 62, and the guide wheel 118 is provided adjacent to the wheel 114 at the other end. The pair of guide wheels 116, 118 have rotation axes that extend along the Z axis.

[0051] The guide wheels 116 support connecting members 120 that connect with the guide wheels 118 of the tray 36 on the front side. The guide wheels 118 support connecting members 120 that connect with the guide wheels 116 of the tray 36 on the rear side. Therefore, the multiple trays 36 are connected together by the connecting members 120. The multiple trays 36 are maintained at a predetermined distance by the connecting members 120.

[0052] A first tray cover 58a is fixed to the first frame body 62, covering the upper side of the first movable portion 54a and the upper side of the first frame body 62. The area of ​​the first tray cover 58a on the second mounting portion 56b side (negative X-axis side) has a plate-like body 59 having a surface parallel to the YZ plane, for example. The plate-like body 59 is located closer to the second mounting portion 56b than the first frame body 62 and extends in the Y-axis direction. The plate-like body 59 continuously covers the area between the area above the central axis of the first pulley 72a and the area above the central axis of the second pulley 72b. The plate-like body 59 is formed, for example, to be approximately flush with the protruding plate 106a. It is preferable that the surface of plate-like body 59 facing second mounting portion 56b and the surface of protruding plate 106a facing first rotating plate 102 and second rotating plate 104 are flush with each other or be offset by a few millimeters in the X-axis direction. Therefore, when first mounting portion 56a is in the closed position, plate-like body 59 of tray cover 58a cooperates with the pair of protruding plates 106a to protect first movable portion 54a. Therefore, when first mounting portion 56a is in the closed position, there is little step and a small gap between plate-like body 59 and protruding plate 106a.

[0053] In this embodiment, the first tray cover 58a and the second tray cover 58b have different shapes. The first tray cover 58a has a portion that covers the locking portion 78 from above, whereas the second tray cover 58b does not have a portion that covers the locking portion 78 from above. The first tray cover 58a and the second tray cover 58b may have the same shape.

[0054] Next, the operation of the article sorting device 10 will be described.

[0055] The plurality of trays 36 move in a predetermined direction on rails 22a, 22b of the track 22. The plurality of trays 36 are connected by connecting members 120, and therefore move in a predetermined direction while being spaced apart from one another at predetermined intervals. The trays 36 according to this embodiment do not require a power source (driving source), and therefore the weight of each tray 36 can be reduced by the amount of the driving source. Furthermore, because the trays 36 do not require a power source (driving source), wiring for passing electrical energy between the track 22 and the trays 36 is also not required.

[0056] In the tray 36 entering the article input section 28, the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 of the first and second loading sections 56a, 56b are both in the closed position. Articles are loaded from the article input section 28 onto one or both of the first and second loading sections 56a, 56b of the tray 36.

[0057] When the first loading section 56a is in the closed position, an appropriate item having a bottom surface area smaller than the combined size of the loading surfaces of the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 is placed on the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 of the first loading section 56a.

[0058] When both the first and second mounting portions 56a and 56b are in the closed position, an appropriate article having a bottom surface area smaller than the combined area of ​​the mounting surfaces of the first and second rotating plates 102 and 104 of the first mounting portion 56a and the first and second rotating plates 102 and 104 of the second mounting portion 56b can be placed on the tray. In this case, an article can also be placed on the four protruding plates 106b. Therefore, the tray 36 can be used for articles of various sizes that are smaller than the combined size of the first and second mounting portions 56a and 56b. Depending on the size of a single article, the tray may selectively use either the first or second mounting portion 56a or both the first and second mounting portions 56a and 56b. The tray 36 according to this embodiment can be used in various ways for articles of various sizes. For example, when placing items on the first and second placement sections 56a and 56b, two items can be sorted on one tray 36, which improves work speed compared to sorting one item on one tray.

[0059] In addition, placing an item on both the first and second loading sections 56a, 56b includes placing an item on each of the first and second loading sections 56a, 56b, and placing one item on the first and second loading sections 56a, 56b in cooperation with each other.

[0060] Therefore, the tray 36 of this embodiment can place an item on one of the first and second loading sections 56a, 56b depending on the size of the item, or can place an item on each of the first and second loading sections 56a, 56b, and the first and second loading sections 56a, 56b can work together to place one item.

[0061] Here, an example will be described in which an article is placed on the first rotating plate (third rotating plate) 102 and the second rotating plate (fourth rotating plate) 104 of the second placement portion 56b of the tray 36. Note that even when an article is placed from the article input portion 28 onto one or both of the first and second placement portions 56a, 56b of the tray 36, the tray 36 continues to move in the predetermined direction.

[0062] 10, when the second tray cover 58b is in the closed position, the surfaces of the protruding plates 106a provided on the first and second rotating plates 102, 104 of the second tray cover 58b that face the first and second rotating plates 102, 104 are substantially flush with the surface of the plate-like body 59 of the second tray cover 58b that faces the first tray cover 56a (the +X-axis side). Therefore, even when the tray 36 moves along the rails 22a, 22b of the logistics sorter 12 with, for example, a bag-shaped item placed on the second tray cover 58b in the closed position, it is unlikely that part of the item will get caught between the second tray cover 58b and the protruding plate 106a.

[0063] Even if a part of an article falls between the plate-shaped body 59 of the second tray cover 58b and the protruding plate 106a, the wire (second wire) 74 is covered by the wire cover 88, and the wire cover 88 is supported by the brackets 82a and 84a, and does not move axially. Even if a part of an article falls between the plate-shaped body 59 of the second tray cover 58b and the protruding plate 106a, the article is simply positioned between the brackets 82a and 84a. The part of the wire (second wire) 74 of the second movable part 54b from one end of the wire cover 88 to the first pulley (third pulley) 72a is located farther from the article than the bracket 82a. Similarly, the part of the wire (second wire) 74 of the second movable part 54b from one end of the wire cover 88 to the second pulley (fourth pulley) 72b is located farther from the article than the bracket 84a. Therefore, a part of the article is unlikely to come into contact with the wire 74 of the second movable part 54b, the first pulley 72a, or the second pulley 72b. As a result, the article is prevented from coming into contact with the wire 74 and being pulled by the wire 74 as the wire 74 moves.

[0064] The control device 24 acquires information about the items on the tray 36 using the information reading unit 30. The information reading unit 30 takes images of the items from the top and sides using, for example, a camera, and outputs the image information to the control device 24. The information reading unit 30 also measures the size, shape, etc. of the items being transported, and outputs the item measurement information obtained by the measurements to the control device 24. Furthermore, the information reading unit 30 reads the item ID from the item and outputs the read item ID to the control device 24.

[0065] The control device 24 assigns an item detection ID to each detected item based on signals from the information reading unit 30 and item detection signals from the other multiple item detection sensors, and also traces the transport (movement) of each item to detect or estimate the location of each item. The control device 24 also monitors the amount of movement of the pair of rails 22a, 22b based on signals from a rotary encoder that detects the amount of movement of the pair of rails 22a, 22b. For example, the control device 24 detects the number of times the pair of rails 22a, 22b has circulated. The control device 24 can also detect the number of times each item has circulated by combining tracing the transport of each item with monitoring the amount of movement of the pair of rails 22a, 22b.

[0066] The control device 24 determines that the articles are to be sorted into, for example, the sorting chute indicated by reference numeral 42a among the sorting chutes 42 in Fig. 1. In this case, the chute corresponding to the sorting chute 42a is indicated by reference numeral 44a.

[0067] The trays 36 move along the movement of the rails 22a and 22b. Even when the rails 22a and 22b are bent, the wheels 112 and 114 and the guide wheels 116 and 118 allow the trays 36 to move in a predetermined direction. In other words, the trays 36 are transported in a circular manner.

[0068] Based on the information acquired by the information reading unit 30, the control device 24 operates the actuator 32 immediately before the tray 36 on which the articles to be sorted are placed moves onto the chute 44a corresponding to the specified sorting chute 42a. The control device 24 energizes the actuator 32, causing the actuator 32 to protrude upward (in the +Z-axis direction), for example. As a result, the actuator 32 comes into contact with the rotating lever 92 of the locking unit (second locking unit) 78 of the tray 36 that has moved onto the chute 44a corresponding to the specified sorting chute 42a, and presses the rotating lever 92 backward (in the -Y-axis direction).

[0069] The timing at which the actuator 32 is operated upward (in the +Z-axis direction) by energizing it is after the pivot lever 92 of the locking portion 78 of the preceding tray 36, which is connected by the connecting member 120, has passed directly above the actuator 32 to be operated.

[0070] Immediately after the actuator 32 comes into contact with the rotating lever 92 and rotates the rotating lever 92, the tray 36 moves, causing the actuator 32 and the rotating lever 92 to come out of contact with each other. Immediately after the actuator 32 and the rotating lever 92 come out of contact with each other, the rotating lever 92 and the engaging member 96 are returned to their original positions by the biasing member 94.

[0071] Immediately after estimating that the actuator 32 has come into contact with the rotating lever 92, the control device 24 stops the supply of electricity to the actuator 32 and retracts the actuator 32 downward (in the -Z direction) to a height position where it does not come into contact with the rotating lever 92.

[0072] When the rotating lever 92 rotates, the engaging member 96 rotates together with the rotating lever 92, and the engaging member 96 of the locking portion 78 disengages from the engaging element 108a provided on the buffer 108 of the first rotating plate 102. At this time, due to the gravity of the article, the first rotating plate 102, and the second rotating plate 104, the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 of the second placing portion 56b open from the closed position to the open position like a double door, and the article falls from between the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 of the second placing portion 56b into the chute 44a. The article is placed from the chute 44a into the dividing chute 42a.

[0073] Here, when the first rotating plate 102 opens from the closed position (see FIG. 11) to the open position (see FIG. 12), the first pulley (third pulley) 72a of the second movable portion 54b rotates and pays out the wire (second wire) 74. When the second rotating plate 104 opens, the second pulley (fourth pulley) 72b rotates and pulls (winds up) the wire (second wire) 74. Because the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 of the second mounting portion 56b begin to open at approximately the same time, the timing when the first pulley 72a pays out the wire 74 and the timing when the second pulley 72b pulls the wire 74 approximately coincide with each other. The biasing member 86 is used to pull the second pulley 72b toward the first pulley 72a and appropriately maintain the tension applied to the wire 74 when the first and second rotating plates 102, 104 open. Therefore, the biasing member 86 prevents the wire 74 from slackening between the first pulley 72a and the second pulley 72b of the second movable portion 54b. Therefore, when the first and second rotating plates 102, 104 of the second mounting portion 56b are switched from the closed position to the open position, the biasing member 86 prevents the wire 74 from coming off the second pulley 72b.

[0074] The wire 74 is maintained in contact with the tangent line of the first pulley 72 a and the tangent line of the second pulley 72 b. Therefore, when the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 open and close, the positional deviation of the wire 74 with respect to the frame 52 (the swing of the wire 74) can be ignored.

[0075] When the first pulley 72a rotates to pay out the wire 74 and open the first rotating plate 102, the first damper 82 slows the rotation speed of the first rotating plate 102 compared to when the first damper 82 is not present. Also, when the second pulley 72b rotates to pull the wire 74 and open the second rotating plate 104, the second damper 84 slows the rotation speed of the second rotating plate 104 compared to when the second damper 84 is not present. In this way, the first buffering portion 76a and the second buffering portion 76b suppress the load on the first movable portion 54a and the second movable portion 54b when the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 open.

[0076] The buffer 108 of the first rotating plate 102 can be used, for example, as a cushion for contact with the preceding tray 36. Therefore, even if the first rotating plate 102 of the tray 36, which is separated by the connecting member 120, comes into contact with the second rotating plate 104 of the preceding tray 36, the load at the time of contact between the first rotating plate 102 of the tray 36 and the second rotating plate 104 of the preceding tray 36 is reduced.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 13, when the second placement portion 56b is in the open position, the tray 36 approaches the guide path 34, which is positioned higher toward the front. When the buffer 108 of the tray 36 moves in a predetermined direction while contacting the guide path 34, the first rotating plate 102 closes. When the first rotating plate 102 moves in the closing direction, the first pulley 72a pulls (winds up) the wire 74. As a result, the second pulley 72b unwinds the wire 74. Therefore, when the first rotating plate 102 closes, the second rotating plate 104 connected to the second pulley 72b is also closed.

[0078] As the first rotating plate 102 is closed, the engaging element 108a provided on the buffer 108 approaches and comes into contact with the inclined surface of the engaging element 96 of the locking portion 78. Then, the engaging element 108a provided on the buffer 108 moves along the inclined surface of the engaging element 96 of the locking portion 78 and is placed on the engaging element 96 of the locking portion 78. At this time, the engaging element 108a provided on the buffer 108 is placed on the engaging element 96 of the locking portion 78 against the biasing force of the biasing element 94. Therefore, when the engaging element 108a provided on the buffer 108 is placed on the engaging element 96 of the locking portion 78, the biasing force of the biasing element 94 causes the engaging element 108a provided on the buffer 108 to be engaged with the engaging element 96 of the locking portion 78. For this reason, the locking portion 78 is provided on the second frame body 64 and locks the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104 together so that articles can be placed on the first rotating plate 102 and the second rotating plate 104. In other words, the second placement portion 56b is returned to the closed position.

[0079] In this manner, with the first placement section 56a and the second placement section 56b maintained in the closed position, the tray 36 moves along the rails 22a and 22b toward the article input section 28. In this manner, the tray 36 circulates on the track 22.

[0080] If the control device 24 outputs that the sorting chute 42 does not have a destination for sorting the item placed on the tray 36, the control device 24 outputs an error. The error output may be after the tray 36 has circulated around the track 22 at least once, for example. In this case, the image information of the item on the tray 36 is acquired again by the information reading unit 30. Then, if the control device 24 again outputs that the sorting chute 42 does not have a destination for sorting the item, it outputs an error.

[0081] A large number of trays 36 are placed and moved on the track 22 of the article sorting device 10. Since an article is placed on each tray 36, the lighter the weight of each tray 36, the smaller the driving force of the rails 22a, 22b required to move each tray 36. In the tray 36 according to this embodiment, by switching the locking portion 78 from the locked position to the unlocked position, the first and second rotating plates 102, 104 of the first placement portion 56a open, thereby moving the first pulley 72a, the second pulley 72b, and the wire 74 of the first movable portion 54a.

[0082] Here, for example, when using a rod for a link mechanism, the rod needs to have strength, i.e., rigidity, to withstand forces in directions off the rod's axis and prevent the rod from buckling. Therefore, to provide the rod with rigidity, it is often necessary to form the rod from an appropriate material with a large thickness. Therefore, the rod for the link mechanism must be formed as a component with an appropriate weight. In contrast, when using the wire 74 of the tray 36 according to this embodiment, buckling does not need to be considered as long as it has tensile strength. The wire 74 may be formed as a component with strength sufficient to withstand the opening and closing operation of the first placement portion 56a and the weight of the items placed on the first placement portion 56a.

[0083] For example, compared to a rod as a solid metal part, the wire 74 of the tray 36 of this embodiment can be formed to be lighter. Therefore, when the wire 74 is used, weight can be reduced compared to when a rod of a link mechanism is used. Therefore, a tray 36 is provided that is easier to reduce in weight compared to when a link mechanism is used, for example. This can have a greater impact the greater the number of trays 36 on the track 22 of the logistics sorter 12. Therefore, by using the first and second pulleys 72a, 72b and the wire 74, as in the first and second movable parts 54a, 54b of the tray 36 according to this embodiment, the weight of the tray 36 can be reduced.

[0084] Furthermore, in the tray 36 according to this embodiment, even when the first and second pulleys 72a, 72b of the second movable part 54b rotate and the wire 74 moves axially, the positions of the first and second pulleys 72a, 72b and the wire 74 continue to maintain the same positions relative to the second frame body 64. Therefore, when the second tray cover 58b is used, a space that takes into account the operating range of the rod, such as a link mechanism, is not required. This allows the space between the second frame body 64 and the second tray cover 58b to be small. Therefore, the structure of the second movable part 54b contributes to reducing the weight of the second tray cover 58b.

[0085] Furthermore, in the tray 36 according to this embodiment, the protruding plates 106a provided on the first and second pivot plates 102, 104 of the second mounting portion 56b can be used as a partition in cooperation with the plate-like body 59 of the second tray cover 58b. When the second mounting portion 56b is in the closed position, the plate-like body 59 of the second tray cover 58b and the protruding plates 106a cooperate to separate the first and second pulleys 72a, 72b and the wire 74 from the articles placed on the second mounting portion 56b. At this time, the wire 74 moves in the axial direction of the wire 74 but can remain in that position. The wire 74 is also protected by the wire cover 88. Therefore, even when the second mounting portion 56b is switched from the closed position to the open position, the wire 74 can be prevented from coming into contact with the articles. Therefore, when the second mounting portion 56b is switched from the closed position to the open position, an article can be prevented from getting caught on the wire 74. Even if the wire cover 88 were not provided, when the second mounting portion 56b is in the closed position, the gap between the protruding plate 106a and the plate-like body 59 of the second tray cover 58b is small, which prevents a part of the article from getting caught in the gap between the protruding plate 106a and the plate-like body 59 of the second tray cover 58b. Therefore, by using the second movable portion 54b according to this embodiment, even when an article placed on the tray 36 is shot into the chute 44, problems such as an article getting caught on the tray 36 can be prevented. Therefore, according to this embodiment, a logistics sorter tray 36 and an article sorting device 10 that can easily process various articles can be provided.

[0086] Furthermore, the tray 36 according to this embodiment does not require an active driving member such as a power motor, which allows the tray 36 to be lighter and reduces the cost of the power motor and the like.

[0087] In this embodiment, the first and second frame bodies 62, 64 have been described as being rectangular prism-shaped. The first and second frame bodies 62, 64 may be suitably formed into any suitable shape having four sides, such as an H-beam shape, in addition to a rectangular prism shape.

[0088] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the first movable part 54a is provided between the first frame body 62 and the first mounting part 56a. That is, an example has been described in which the first movable part 54a is provided in the -X-axis direction with respect to the first frame body 62. It is also preferable that the first movable part 54a be provided in the +X-axis direction with respect to the first frame body 62. Similarly, in the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the second movable part 54b is provided between the second frame body 64 and the second mounting part 56b. That is, an example has been described in which the second movable part 54a is provided in the +X-axis direction with respect to the second frame body 62. It is also preferable that the second movable part 54b be provided in the -X-axis direction with respect to the second frame body 62.

[0089] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the two-part rotating plates 102, 104 of the first mounting portion 56a open downward in a double-hinged manner. The opening direction of the two-part rotating plates 102, 104 is not limited to the downward direction and can be set appropriately.

[0090] In the above example, one end of the wire 74 is passed, for example, above the rotation shaft of the first pulley 72a (in a first direction relative to the rotation shaft), wound downward toward the opposite side from the other end, and fixed. Also, in the above example, the other end of the wire 74 is passed, for example, below the rotation shaft of the second pulley 72b (in a second direction relative to the rotation shaft), wound upward toward the opposite side from the one end, and fixed. The rotation axes of the first pulley 72a and the second pulley 72b do not necessarily extend horizontally (in the X-axis direction or along the XY plane). The rotation axes of the first pulley 72a and the second pulley 72b may extend so as to intersect the horizontal direction (XY plane). For example, the rotation axes of the first pulley 72a and the second pulley 72b may extend vertically (in the Z-axis direction). Even in this case, one end of the wire 74 is wound around and fixed to the first pulley 72a, and the other end of the wire 74 is wound around and fixed to the second pulley 72b. In this embodiment, by using the wire 74, the orientations of the rotation axes of the first pulley 72a and the second pulley 72b can be appropriately set. Therefore, the orientations of the first pulley 72a and the second pulley 72b can be set according to the space in which the first pulley 72a and the second pulley 72b are arranged. The rotation axes of the first pulley 72a and the second pulley 72b do not need to be parallel to each other. In this way, by using the wire 74, the orientations of the first pulley 72a and the second pulley 72b can be freely set.

[0091] According to at least one of the embodiments described above, it is possible to provide a logistics sorter tray 36 and an article sorting device 10 that can be made lighter in weight.

[0092] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. The following are the claims as of the time of filing the patent application. [1] a first frame body that moves in a predetermined direction on the track of the logistics sorter; a first pulley that is rotatable about a predetermined axis relative to the first frame body; a second pulley that is rotatable about a predetermined axis relative to the first frame body; a first rotating plate that rotates in accordance with the rotation of the first pulley; a second rotating plate that rotates in accordance with the rotation of the second pulley; a first wire that is wound around the first pulley and the second pulley, and that, when unwound from the second pulley and wound up around the first pulley, rotates the first and second rotating plates to close, and when unwound from the first pulley and wound up around the second pulley, rotates the first and second rotating plates to open in a double-door manner; A tray for a logistics sorter. [2] The first wire is When the first wire is wound around the first pulley, the first wire is wound in a direction opposite to the first direction, tangent to the rotation axis of the first pulley in a first direction in the radial direction of the first pulley, The tray of Appendix 1, wherein when the first wire is wound around the second pulley, the first wire is wound in a direction opposite to the second direction, tangent to the rotation axis of the second pulley in a second direction radial to the second pulley. [3] a first buffer section provided between the first pulley and the first frame body, which buffers the impact when the first rotating plate opens; a second buffer portion provided between the second pulley and the first frame body, for buffering an impact when the second rotating plate opens; and The second buffer section includes: a damper provided between the second pulley and the first frame body; an urging member provided between the second pulley and the first frame body, urging the second pulley to move away from the first pulley; 3. The tray of claim 1 or 2, [4] the first pulley is provided between the first frame body and the first rotating plate, 4. The tray according to claim 1, wherein the second pulley is provided between the first frame body and the second rotating plate. [5] A tray as described in any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 4, having a wire cover supported by the first frame body between the first pulley and the second pulley, covering the outer periphery of the first wire, and allowing the first wire to move along the axial direction. [6] A tray as described in any one of Appendix 1 to Appendix 5, having a tray cover provided on the first frame body and covering at least a portion of the first frame body, the first and second pulleys, and the first wire. [7] the tray cover includes a plate-like body facing the first and second rotating plates, The tray described in Appendix 6, wherein the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate are each provided with a partition that cooperates with the plate-shaped body when the first wire is wound around the first pulley and the first and second rotating plates are in a closed position, and separates the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate from the first frame body, the first and second pulleys, and the first wire. [8] 8. The tray according to any one of appendices 1 to 7, comprising a locking portion provided on the first frame body, switchable between a locked position in which the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate are locked so that an item can be placed on the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate, and an unlocked position in which the item is allowed to fall from between the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate. [9] a second frame body facing the first frame body; a third pulley rotatable about a predetermined axis relative to the second frame body; a fourth pulley rotatable about a predetermined axis relative to the second frame body; a third rotating plate provided closer to the second frame body than the first rotating plate and rotating in accordance with the rotation of the third pulley; a fourth rotating plate provided closer to the second frame body than the second rotating plate and rotating in accordance with the rotation of the fourth pulley; a second wire that is wound around the third pulley and the fourth pulley, and that rotates the third and fourth rotary plates to close when the second wire is unwound from the fourth pulley and wound up around the third pulley, and rotates the third and fourth rotary plates to open in a double-door manner when the second wire is unwound from the third pulley and wound up around the fourth pulley; 9. The tray according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising:

[10] An article sorting device comprising a logistics sorter having a tray according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 9 and a track along which the tray moves. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 10...article sorting device, 12...logistics sorter, 14...accumulation section, 22...track, 22a, 22b...rails, 24...controller, 26...drive section, 28...article input section, 30...information reading section, 32...actuator, 34...guide path, 36...logistics sorter tray (bombay tray), 42...sorting chute, 44...chute, 52...frame, 54a...first movable section, 54b...second movable section, 56a...first placement section, 56b...second placement section, 58a...first tray cover, 58b...second tray cover, 59...plate-shaped body, 62...second First frame body, 64...second frame body, 66...first shaft, 68...second shaft, 72a...first pulley, 72b...second pulley, 74...wire, 76a...first buffer section, 76b...second buffer section, 78...lock section, 82...damper, 82a...bracket, 84...damper, 84a...bracket, 86...urging member, 88...wire cover, 92...rotating lever, 94...urging body, 96...engaging body, 102...first rotating plate, 104...second rotating plate, 106a, 106b...projecting plates, 108...buffer body, 108a...engaging element

Claims

1. a first frame body that moves in a predetermined direction on the track of the physical distribution sorter; a first pulley rotatable about a predetermined axis relative to the first frame body; a second pulley rotatable about a predetermined axis relative to the first frame body; a first rotating plate that rotates in accordance with the rotation of the first pulley; a second rotating plate that rotates in accordance with the rotation of the second pulley; a first wire that is wound around the first pulley and the second pulley, and that, when unwound from the second pulley and wound up around the first pulley, rotates the first and second rotating plates to close, and when unwound from the first pulley and wound up around the second pulley, rotates the first and second rotating plates to open in a double-wing manner; a first buffer portion provided between the first pulley and the first frame body, for buffering an impact when the first rotating plate opens; a second buffer portion provided between the second pulley and the first frame body, for buffering an impact when the second rotating plate opens; and The second buffer section a damper provided between the second pulley and the first frame body; an urging member provided between the second pulley and the first frame body, urging the second pulley to move away from the first pulley; A tray for a logistics sorter.

2. The first wire comprises: When the first wire is wound around the first pulley, the first wire is wound in a direction opposite to the first direction, tangent to the rotation axis of the first pulley in a first direction in the radial direction of the first pulley, When the first wire is wound around the second pulley, the first wire is wound in a direction opposite to the second direction in a radial direction of the second pulley, while being tangent to the rotation axis of the second pulley in the second direction. The tray of claim 1 .

3. the first pulley is provided between the first frame body and the first rotating plate, the second pulley is provided between the first frame body and the second rotating plate; The tray according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. A first frame body that moves in a predetermined direction on the track of a logistics sorter; a first pulley rotatable about a predetermined axis relative to the first frame body; a second pulley that is rotatable about a predetermined axis relative to the first frame body; a first rotating plate that rotates in accordance with the rotation of the first pulley; a second rotating plate that rotates in accordance with the rotation of the second pulley; a first wire that is wound around the first pulley and the second pulley, and that, when unwound from the second pulley and wound up around the first pulley, rotates the first and second rotating plates to close, and when unwound from the first pulley and wound up around the second pulley, rotates the first and second rotating plates to open in a double-wing manner; a wire cover supported by the first frame body between the first pulley and the second pulley, covering an outer periphery of the first wire and allowing the first wire to move along an axial direction; A tray for a logistics sorter.

5. a tray cover provided on the first frame body and covering the first frame body, the first and second pulleys, and at least a portion of the first wire; The tray according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the tray cover includes a plate-like body facing the first and second rotating plates, The first rotating plate and the second rotating plate are each provided with a partition wall that cooperates with the plate-shaped body when the first wire is wound around the first pulley and the first and second rotating plates are in a closed position, and that separates the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate from the first frame body, the first and second pulleys, and the first wire. The tray of claim 5.

7. a locking portion provided on the first frame body, the locking portion being switchable between a locking position for locking the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate so that an article can be placed on the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate, and an unlocking position for allowing the article to fall between the first rotating plate and the second rotating plate; The tray according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. a second frame body facing the first frame body; a third pulley rotatable about a predetermined axis relative to the second frame body; a fourth pulley rotatable about a predetermined axis relative to the second frame body; a third rotating plate provided closer to the second frame body than the first rotating plate and rotating in accordance with rotation of the third pulley; a fourth rotating plate provided closer to the second frame body than the second rotating plate and rotating in accordance with the rotation of the fourth pulley; a second wire that is wound around the third pulley and the fourth pulley, and that, when unwound from the fourth pulley and wound up around the third pulley, rotates the third and fourth rotating plates to close, and when unwound from the third pulley and wound up around the fourth pulley, rotates the third and fourth rotating plates to open in a double-wing manner; and 8. The tray of claim 1, further comprising:

9. An article sorting device, comprising: a logistics sorter having the tray according to any one of claims 1 to 8; and a track along which the tray moves.

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