Insertion Devices and Systems

Abstract

To provide an input device for effectively inputting articles into a lane.SOLUTION: According to an embodiment of the invention, an input device includes an input mechanism, a transport conveyor, and a processor. The input mechanism is formed at an incline toward a lane along which articles are transported, inputs articles into the lane, and retracts at the timing when an article higher than a predetermined threshold passes below in the lane. The transport conveyor supplies articles to the input mechanism. The processor controls the transport conveyor so that articles are not loaded onto the input mechanism at the timing when the input mechanism retracts upward.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention relate to a dosing device and system. [Background technology]

[0002] A loading device is provided that loads articles into a sorter from above. Such a loading device loads articles onto the lanes of the sorter from a conveyor formed along the lanes. The loading device loads the articles onto the lanes through a loading mechanism, such as a slope that descends toward the lanes, to reduce the height from which the articles fall.

[0003] Furthermore, since items may pass under a slope on the lane, conventional loading devices have the problem of being unable to load items onto the lane from a position lower than the height of the items being transported by the lane. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-11193 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In order to solve the above problem, a feeding device that effectively feeds articles into a lane is provided. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to an embodiment, the input device includes an input mechanism, a transport conveyor, and a processor. The input mechanism is formed at an angle toward a lane along which items are transported, inputs items into the lane, and retracts when an item higher than a predetermined threshold passes below the lane. The transport conveyor supplies items to the input mechanism. The processor controls the transport conveyor so that no items are loaded onto the input mechanism when the input mechanism retracts. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of a feeding system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating a transport lane and a conveyor according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the configuration of the input conveyor according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control system of the input system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the input system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the input system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the input system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the insertion device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically showing a modified example of the feeding conveyor according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of a feeding device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the insertion device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically illustrating a configuration example of a feeding device according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. (First embodiment) First, the first embodiment will be described. An input system according to an embodiment inputs items into a sorter. The input system includes an input device that is parallel to and above the transport lane of the sorter. The input system inputs items from the input device into the transport lane. The input device includes a conveyor that descends toward the transport lane. The input device uses the conveyor to input items from a predetermined height into the transport lane of the sorter. For example, the input system is used in logistics sensors, postal sorting machines, or warehouses.

[0009] Fig. 1 shows a schematic configuration example of a feeding system 1 according to an embodiment, and Fig. 2 shows a schematic feeding section where articles are fed from a feeding device into a sorter.

[0010] As shown in FIG. 1, the feeding system 1 includes a height sensor 2, a sorter 10, a feeding device 20, and the like.

[0011] The sorter 10 transports and sorts the items 3. For example, the sorter 10 sorts the items 3 according to the delivery destination of the items 3, etc.

[0012] The sorter 10 is configured with a transport lane 13. Here, the transport lane 13 is configured with two transport lanes 13a and 13b. The transport lanes 13a and 13b are formed in the shape of a track. The transport lanes 13a and 13b are formed parallel to each other. Here, the transport lane 13a is formed outside the transport lane 13b.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 2, the transport lane 13a is made up of a plurality of trays 14a.

[0014] The conveying lane 13a conveys the tray 14a in a predetermined direction (counterclockwise in FIG. 1). The tray 14a conveys the loaded items 3. The tray 14a drops the loaded items 3 into a chute or the like formed below. For example, the tray 14a has a structure that opens downward.

[0015] Similarly, the transport lane 13a is made up of a plurality of trays 14b, which are similar to the trays 14a and therefore will not be described further.

[0016] The input device 20 inputs the items 3 into the sorter 10. For example, the input device 20 receives the items 3 from an operator, a robot, or another conveyor. The input device 20 inputs the received items 3 into the conveyance lane 13 of the sorter 10.

[0017] The loading device 20 is made up of a loading lane 23. The loading lane 23 is made up of two loading lanes 23a and 23b. The loading lanes 23a and 23b are formed in a straight line parallel to each other. The loading lanes 23a and 23b carry and transport the items 3.

[0018] Here, the distance between the tip of the input lane 23 and the transport lane 13 (i.e., the minimum ground clearance of the input lane 23) is defined as the lane height.

[0019] The input lane 23a inputs the items 3 from its leading end into the transport lane 13a of the sorter 10. The input lane 23b inputs the items 3 from its leading end into the transport lane 13b of the sorter 10. The input lanes 23a and 23b will be described in detail later.

[0020] The height sensor 2 is connected to the input device 20. The height sensor 2 detects that an item 3 has passed through the conveying lane 13a or 13b of the sorter 10. The height sensor 2 also detects whether the passing item 3 is higher than the lane height (or a predetermined threshold value smaller than the lane height).

[0021] When the height sensor 2 detects that an item 3 has passed through the conveying lane 13a or 13b, it transmits a detection signal indicating that the item 3 has passed through the conveying lane 13a or 13b to the insertion device 20. The detection signal also includes a flag indicating whether the passing item 3 is higher than the lane height.

[0022] For example, the height sensor 2 is an infrared sensor that emits infrared rays at the lane height and a predetermined height in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the article 3. When the infrared rays are blocked by the article 3, the height sensor 2 transmits a detection signal to the feeding device 20.

[0023] Furthermore, the height sensor 2 may transmit a detection signal based on a captured image that captures the item 3. The configuration of the height sensor 2 is not limited to a specific configuration.

[0024] For example, the transport time from the height sensor 2 to the input conveyor 25 in the transport lane 13 is longer than the time from when the item 3 is loaded onto the transport conveyor 24 to when it is input into the transport lane 13.

[0025] The input system 1 may include other components as needed in addition to the components shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, or specific components may be excluded from the input system 1.

[0026] Next, the input lanes 23a and 23b will be described. Since the input lanes 23a and 23b have the same configuration, they will be described as the input lane 23 here.

[0027] Fig. 3 shows a schematic configuration example of the input lane 23. As shown in Fig. 3, the input lane 23 includes a transport conveyor 24, an input conveyor 25, a rotary shaft 26, a drive mechanism 27, and the like.

[0028] The transport conveyor 24 is formed above and parallel to the transport lane 13 extending in the longitudinal direction. The transport conveyor 24 transports the articles 3 input by an operator, a robot, another conveyor, or the like. The transport conveyor 24 may also be made up of multiple conveyors.

[0029] An input conveyor 25 is formed at the tip of the transport conveyor 24. The transport conveyor 24 supplies the articles 3 to the input conveyor 25.

[0030] The input conveyor 25 (input mechanism) is formed on an extension of the transport conveyor 24. The input conveyor 25 is formed inclined at a predetermined angle (for example, 10 to 15 degrees) toward the transport lane 13. The input conveyor 25 inputs the item 3 from the transport conveyor 24 into the transport lane 13. When the item 3 is input (FIG. 3(a)), the distance between the tip of the input conveyor 25 and the transport lane 13 is the lane height. Here, the state of the input conveyor 25 at the time of input is considered to be the initial state.

[0031] A rotation shaft 26 is formed at the base of the feeding conveyor 25 (the connection point with the transport conveyor 24). The rotation shaft 26 supports the feeding conveyor 25 so that it can rotate.

[0032] Further, a drive mechanism 27 is formed below the feeding conveyor 25. The drive mechanism 27 retracts the feeding conveyor 25 by flipping it upward. That is, the drive mechanism 27 rotates the feeding conveyor 25 around the rotation axis 26. For example, the drive mechanism 27 is composed of a motor that rotates the feeding conveyor 25.

[0033] When the feeding conveyor 25 jumps up (FIG. 3(b)), the distance between the tip of the feeding conveyor 25 and the transport lane 13 becomes larger than the lane height. Here, the state of the feeding conveyor 25 when jumping up is referred to as a jumping state.

[0034] Next, the control system of the feeding device 20 will be described. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control system of the insertion device 20. As shown in Fig. 4, the insertion device 20 includes a control unit 21, a transport conveyor 24, an insertion conveyor 25, a drive mechanism 27, a sensor interface 28, a lamp 29, and the like.

[0035] The input device 20 may be provided with other components as needed in addition to the components shown in FIG. 4, or a specific component may be excluded from the input device 20. The transfer conveyor 24, the input conveyor 25 and the drive mechanism 27 are as described above.

[0036] The control unit 21 (processor) has the function of controlling the overall operation of the insertion device 20. The control unit 21 may include an internal cache and various interfaces. The control unit 21 performs various processes by executing programs stored in advance in an internal memory or the like. For example, the control unit 21 is configured with a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) or the like.

[0037] The control unit 21 is also connected to the sorter 10. The control unit 21 operates in conjunction with the sorter 10, and therefore transmits and receives various data to and from the sorter 10.

[0038] The sensor interface 28 is an interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from the height sensor 2. The sensor interface 28 receives a detection signal from the height sensor 2. The sensor interface 28 supplies the received detection signal to the control unit 21. The sensor interface 28 may also transmit a control signal from the control unit 21 to the height sensor 2.

[0039] The lamp 29 is turned on under the control of the control unit 21. The lamp 29 controls the loading of the articles 3 onto the transport conveyor 24. The lamp 29 will be described in detail later.

[0040] Next, a description will be given of the functions realized by the insertion device 20. The functions realized by the insertion device 20 are realized by the control unit 21 executing a program stored in an internal memory or the like.

[0041] First, the control unit 21 has a function of inputting the item 3 from the input lane 23 into the transport lane 13. Here, it is assumed that the transport conveyor 24 of the input lane 23 is loaded with the article 3. Also, it is assumed that the input conveyor 25 is in the initial state.

[0042] The control unit 21 drives the transport conveyor 24 and the input conveyor 25 at a predetermined speed (for example, the speed at which the tray 14 moves). That is, the control unit 21 transports the articles 3 at a predetermined speed. The control unit 21 may also drive the input conveyor 25 so that the horizontal movement speed of the articles 3 becomes a predetermined speed.

[0043] The control unit 21 supplies the articles 3 from the transport conveyor 24 to the input conveyor 25. The control unit 21 continues driving the input conveyor 25, and inputs the articles from the tip of the input conveyor 25 into the transport lane 13.

[0044] Here, the loading positions of the articles 3 on the transport conveyor 24 are associated in advance with the trays 14. That is, when the articles 3 are loaded on the transport conveyor 24, the trays 14 into which the loaded articles are to be placed are determined.

[0045] The control unit 21 also has a function of detecting that the item 3 is being transported in the transport lane 13.

[0046] The control unit 21 receives the detection signal through the sensor interface 28. Upon receiving the detection signal, the control unit 21 detects that the item 3 is being transported on the transport lane 13.

[0047] The control unit 21 also has a function of setting a no-loading section in which loading of the articles 3 on the transport conveyor 24 is prohibited based on the detection signal.

[0048] 5 shows an example of the operation of the control unit 21 to set a no-loading section. In FIG. 5, the trays 14 are numbered from N-4 to N+4. That is, the transport lane 13 is made up of the N-4 to N+4 trays 14.

[0049] Also, the Nth tray 14 is assumed to carry an article 3a that is higher than the lane height.

[0050] The control unit 21 also sets loading positions on the transport conveyor 24 at which the items 3 are to be loaded. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the control unit 21 sets loading positions N-4 to N+4. Here, the N-4 to N+N loading positions correspond to the N-4 to N+N trays 14, respectively. That is, the items 3 loaded at the N-4 to N+N loading positions are placed into the N-4 to N+N trays 14, respectively.

[0051] The control unit 21 receives the detection signal. Upon receiving the detection signal, the control unit 21 determines whether the height of the item 3a is higher than the lane height based on the detection signal. Here, it is assumed that the control unit 21 determines that the height of the item 3a is higher than the lane height.

[0052] When it is determined that the height of the item 3a is higher than the lane height, the control unit 21 sets a loading prohibition section so that the item 3 is not loaded onto the input conveyor 25 during the period when the input conveyor 25 bounces up as the item 3a passes through the input lane 23.

[0053] For example, the control unit 21 sets the tray 14 carrying the item 3a that is taller than the lane height and a predetermined number of trays 14 before and after it as an input prohibition section into which the item 3 is not input. Here, the control unit 21 sets the tray 14 carrying the item 3a that is taller than the lane height and the two trays 14 before and after it as an input prohibition section into which the item 3 is not input. The control unit 21 sets the loading position corresponding to the loading prohibition section as the loading prohibition section.

[0054] As described above, the Nth tray 14 carries an article 3a that is taller than the lane height. That is, the control unit 21 sets the N-2th to N+2th loading positions as a loading prohibition zone.

[0055] If the control unit 21 determines that the height of the item 3a is lower than the lane height, it sets the tray 14 carrying the item 3a to a prohibited loading section. That is, the control unit 21 sets one tray 14 to a prohibited loading section. The control unit 21 sets the loading position corresponding to the prohibited loading section to be a prohibited loading section.

[0056] The control unit 21 also has a function of outputting the set no-loading section. When a robot or another conveyor loads an item 3 onto the transport conveyor 24, the control unit 21 transmits a no-loading section to the controller of the robot or other conveyor as information indicating a position where the item 3 should not be loaded.

[0057] Furthermore, when the operator loads the items 3 onto the transport conveyor 24, the control unit 21 displays the no-loading zones using the lamps 29. As shown in Fig. 5, the lamps 29 are installed at positions corresponding to the respective loading positions.

[0058] The control unit 21 displays information on the lamp 29 at the loading position included in the no-loading section, instructing that the item 3 should not be loaded at the loading position. For example, the control unit 21 turns the lamp 29 on or off. The control unit 21 may also light up the lamp 29 in a predetermined color.

[0059] The control unit 21 also has a function of lifting up the feed conveyor 25 at the timing when an article 3 a on the transport lane 13 passes under the feed conveyor 25 .

[0060] FIG. 6 shows an example of the operation in which the control unit 21 causes the feeding conveyor 25 to jump up. In the initial state (FIG. 6(a)), it is assumed that the article 3 is loaded on the input conveyor 25.

[0061] In (a), the control unit 21 continues to drive the feed conveyor 25. By continuing to drive the feed conveyor 25, the control unit 21 feeds the items 3 from the feed conveyor 25 into the transport lane 13 ((b) and (c) of Figure 6).

[0062] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 6(c), a throw-in prohibition zone 5 is set around the item 3a.

[0063] The control unit 21 continues to drive the input conveyor 25, and finishes inputting the articles 3 on the input conveyor 25 into the transport lane 13 (FIG. 6(d)).

[0064] When the item 3 on the input conveyor 25 has been input into the transport lane 13, the control unit 21 waits until the item 3a reaches the input conveyor 25 (for example, a predetermined position before the tip of the input conveyor 25). For example, the control unit 21 determines that the item 3a has reached the input conveyor 25 when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the control unit 21 received a detection signal from the height sensor 2.

[0065] When the article 3a reaches the feed conveyor 25, the control unit 21 causes the feed conveyor 25 to jump up using the drive mechanism 27 (FIG. 6(e)). When the feed conveyor 25 is in the jumped-up state (FIG. 6(f)), the article 3a passes under the feed conveyor 25.

[0066] Here, the control unit 21 raises the feed conveyors 25 of both the feed lanes 23a and 23b. That is, regardless of whether the article 3a is being transported to the transport lane 13a or 13b, the control unit 21 raises the feed conveyors 25 of both the feed lanes 23a and 23b.

[0067] When the article 3a passes under the feed conveyor 25, the control unit 21 returns the feed conveyor 25 to its initial state using the drive mechanism 27 (FIG. 6(g)). For example, the control unit 21 returns the feed conveyor 25 to its initial state when a predetermined time has elapsed since the feed conveyor 25 entered the flip-up state.

[0068] In addition, when the prohibited loading sections overlap due to a series of articles 3a that are higher than the lane height, the control unit 21 does not load the articles 3 in both prohibited loading sections.

[0069] 7 shows an example where no-loading sections overlap. In FIG. 7, the no-loading sections overlap, resulting in overlapping no-loading sections 5. The control unit 21 prevents items 3 from being loaded onto the conveyance lane 13 in both no-loading sections 5.

[0070] Additionally, the control unit 21 may maintain the feed conveyor 25 in the jumped up state until the following article 3a passes.

[0071] Next, an example of the operation of the insertion device 20 will be described. 8 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the insertion device 20. Here, it is assumed that the insertion device 20 inserts the items 3 loaded on the transport conveyor 24 into the transport lane 13 via the insertion conveyor 25.

[0072] First, the control unit 21 of the insertion device 20 determines whether or not a detection signal has been received through the sensor interface 28 (S10). If it determines that a detection signal has not been received (S10, NO), the control unit 21 returns to S10.

[0073] When it is determined that a detection signal has been received (S10, YES), the control unit 21 determines whether the height of the article 3a is higher than the lane height based on the detection signal (S11). When it is determined that the height of the article 3a is higher than the lane height (S11, YES), the control unit 21 sets no-loading zones corresponding to the five trays 14 based on the detection signal (S12). When the no-loading zones are set, the control unit 21 outputs the no-loading zones (S13).

[0074] When the no-loading section is output, the control unit 21 determines whether an article 3a higher than the lane height has reached the input conveyor 25 (S14). If it determines that the article 3a has not reached the input conveyor 25 (S14, NO), the control unit 21 returns to S14.

[0075] When it is determined that the article 3a has reached the feed conveyor 25 (S14, YES), the control unit 21 causes the drive mechanism 27 to raise the feed conveyor 25 (S15). After raising the feed conveyor 25, the control unit 21 determines whether the article 3a has passed through the feed conveyor 25 (S16).

[0076] If it is determined that the article 3a has not passed through the input conveyor 25 (S16, NO), the control unit 21 returns to S16.

[0077] When it is determined that the article 3a has passed through the feed conveyor 25 (S16, YES), the control unit 21 uses the drive mechanism to return the feed conveyor 25 to its initial state (S17). If it is determined that the height of the article 3a is lower than the lane height (S11, NO), a no-loading section corresponding to one tray 14 is set (S18). Once the no-loading section is set, the control unit 21 outputs the no-loading section (S19).

[0078] When the input conveyor 25 is returned to the initial state (S17) or when the loading prohibition section is output (S19), the control unit 21 ends the operation.

[0079] Next, a modified example of the input lane 23 will be described. Fig. 9 shows a schematic configuration example of a feeding lane 23' which is a modified example of the feeding lane 23. As shown in Fig. 9, the feeding lane 23' includes a transport conveyor 24, a feeding conveyor 25, a rotary shaft 26, a drive mechanism 27, and the like.

[0080] In the feeding lane 23 ′, a drive mechanism 27 is installed above the feeding conveyor 25 . Since the drive mechanism 27 is installed above the feeding conveyor 25, the drive mechanism 27 does not interfere with the articles 3a. As a result, as shown in Figure 9(b), the feeding system 1 can pass the articles 3a even if the length of the feeding conveyor 25 is shortened or the rotation angle is reduced.

[0081] The height sensor 2 may transmit a first detection signal indicating that an article 3a higher than the lane height has been detected in the conveying lane 13a, and a second detection signal indicating that an article 3a higher than the lane height has been detected in the conveying lane 13b. In this case, when the control unit 21 receives the first detection signal, it may raise the feeding conveyor 25 of the feeding lane 23a and maintain the feeding conveyor 25 of the feeding lane 23b in the initial state. When the control unit 21 receives the second detection signal, it may raise the feeding conveyor 25 of the feeding lane 23b and maintain the feeding conveyor 25 of the feeding lane 23a in the initial state.

[0082] The sorter 10 may also be configured with one transport lane 13. In this case, the input device 20 may also be configured with one input lane .

[0083] Furthermore, the feeding conveyor 25 may be configured to retract in the horizontal direction. The direction in which the feeding conveyor 25 retracts is not limited to a specific direction.

[0084] The feeding system configured as described above feeds items into the sorter from a low position using the feeding conveyor. The feeding system also sets a prohibited-feed zone when an item that interferes with the feeding conveyor is transported by the sorter. Therefore, when an item is transported to the feeding conveyor in the sorter, no items are loaded on the feeding conveyor. Therefore, the feeding system can retract the feeding conveyor upward when no items are loaded on the feeding conveyor. As a result, the feeding system feeds items into the sorter from a low position while allowing items transported by the sorter to pass under the feeding conveyor. Therefore, the feeding system can effectively feed items from the feeding device into the sorter. (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. The feeding system according to the second embodiment differs from that according to the first embodiment in that the timing of feeding the items 3 is adjusted by stopping the transport conveyor 24. Therefore, the other points are given the same reference numerals and detailed explanations are omitted.

[0085] 10 shows an example of the configuration of a feeding system 1' according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the height sensor 2 of the feeding system 1' is installed at a position relatively close to the feeding conveyor 25.

[0086] For example, the transport time from the height sensor 2 to the input conveyor 25 in the transport lane 13 may be longer than the time it takes for the articles 3 loaded on the input conveyor 25 to be input into the transport lane 13.

[0087] Next, a description will be given of the functions realized by the insertion device 20. The functions realized by the insertion device 20 are realized by the control unit 21 executing a program stored in an internal memory or the like.

[0088] The functions realized by the input device 20 according to the second embodiment are the following functions in addition to those realized by the input device 20 according to the first embodiment.

[0089] First, the control unit 21 has a function of inputting the item 3 from the input lane 23 into the transport lane 13. Here, it is assumed that the transport conveyor 24 of the input lane 23 is loaded with the article 3. Also, it is assumed that the input conveyor 25 is in the initial state.

[0090] The control unit 21 determines whether a tray 14 in the conveying lane 13 is loaded with an item 3 using a sensor or the like (not shown). If there is a tray 14 that is not loaded with an item 3, the control unit 21 controls the transport conveyor 24 to load the item 3 onto that tray 14. In other words, the control unit 21 controls the transport conveyor 24 so that the item 3 is fed from the feed conveyor 25 at the timing when the tray 14 reaches the tip of the feed conveyor 25. The control unit 21 drives or stops the transport conveyor 24, or controls the transport speed of the transport conveyor 24.

[0091] The control unit 21 also has a function of stopping the transport conveyor 24 based on the detection signal.

[0092] The control unit 21 receives the detection signal. Here, the detection signal indicates that the height of the item 3a is higher than the lane height. Based on the detection signal, the control unit 21 stops the transport conveyor 24 so that no items are loaded on the input conveyor 25 when the item 3a reaches the input conveyor 25 (for example, a predetermined position before the tip of the input conveyor 25). For example, the control unit 21 stops the transport conveyor 24 when a predetermined time has elapsed since receiving the detection signal.

[0093] Furthermore, the control unit 21 continues to drive the input conveyor 25 even while the transport conveyor 24 is stopped. By continuing to drive the input conveyor 25, the control unit 21 inputs the items 3 loaded on the input conveyor 25 into the transport lane 13.

[0094] The control unit 21 waits until the item 3a reaches the feed conveyor 25 (for example, a predetermined position before the tip of the feed conveyor 25). For example, the control unit 21 determines that the item 3a has reached the feed conveyor 25 when a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the control unit 21 received a detection signal from the height sensor 2.

[0095] When the article 3a reaches the feed conveyor 25, the control unit 21 causes the feed conveyor 25 to bounce upward using the drive mechanism 27. When the feed conveyor 25 is in the bounced state, the article 3a passes under the feed conveyor 25.

[0096] Here, the control unit 21 raises the feed conveyors 25 of both the feed lanes 23a and 23b. That is, regardless of whether the article 3a is being transported to the transport lane 13a or 13b, the control unit 21 raises the feed conveyors 25 of both the feed lanes 23a and 23b.

[0097] When the article 3a passes under the feed conveyor 25, the control unit 21 returns the feed conveyor 25 to its initial state using the drive mechanism 27. For example, the control unit 21 returns the feed conveyor 25 to its initial state when a predetermined time has elapsed since the feed conveyor 25 entered the flip-up state.

[0098] Furthermore, when the control unit 21 returns the input conveyor 25 to the initial state, it drives the transfer conveyor 24.

[0099] Next, an example of the operation of the insertion device 20 will be described. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the insertion device 20. Here, it is assumed that the insertion device 20 inserts the item 3 into the transport lane 13 by driving the transport conveyor 24 and the insertion conveyor 25.

[0100] First, the control unit 21 of the insertion device 20 determines whether or not a detection signal has been received through the sensor interface 28 (S21). If it determines that a detection signal has not been received (S21, NO), the control unit 21 returns to S21.

[0101] When it is determined that a detection signal has been received (S21, YES), the control unit 21 stops the transport conveyor 24 based on the detection signal (S22). Here, the detection signal indicates that the height of the article 3a is higher than the lane height.

[0102] When the transport conveyor 24 is stopped, the control unit 21 determines whether an article 3a higher than the lane height has reached the input conveyor 25 (S23). If it determines that the article 3a has not reached the input conveyor 25 (S23, NO), the control unit 21 returns to S23.

[0103] When it is determined that the article 3a has reached the feed conveyor 25 (S23, YES), the control unit 21 causes the drive mechanism 27 to raise the feed conveyor 25 (S24). After raising the feed conveyor 25, the control unit 21 determines whether the article 3a has passed through the feed conveyor 25 (S25).

[0104] If it is determined that the article 3a has not passed through the input conveyor 25 (S25, NO), the control unit 21 returns to S25.

[0105] When it is determined that the article 3a has passed through the feed conveyor 25 (S25, YES), the control unit 21 uses the drive mechanism to return the feed conveyor 25 to its initial state (S26). After returning the feed conveyor 25 to its initial state, the control unit 21 drives the transfer conveyor 24 (S27). After driving the transport conveyor 24, the control unit 21 ends the operation.

[0106] The control unit 21 may also reduce the transport speed of the transport conveyor 24 in S22. Furthermore, the control unit 21 may execute S26 and S27 simultaneously, or may execute S26 after executing S27.

[0107] The input system configured as described above stops the transport conveyor when it receives a detection signal, preventing it from supplying any items to the input conveyor. Therefore, when the sorter transports the items to the input conveyor, no items are loaded on the input conveyor. Therefore, the input system can retract the input conveyor upward when no items are loaded on the input conveyor. (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described. The feeding system according to the third embodiment differs from that according to the first embodiment in that it is provided with a slope that the article 3 pushes to retreat, instead of the feeding conveyor 25. Therefore, the other features are given the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0108] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates a configuration example of a feeding system 1″ according to the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12, a feeding lane 23″ of a feeding system 11″ includes a transport conveyor 24, a slope 31, a rotating shaft 32, and a counterweight 33.

[0109] The transport conveyor 24 supplies the items 3 to the slope 31. The slope 31 (feeding mechanism) is formed on an extension of the transport conveyor 24. The slope 31 is formed downward at a predetermined angle. The slope 31 feeds the items 3 supplied from the transport conveyor 24 into the transport lane 13. For example, the slope 31 is made of a flat plate member.

[0110] A rotation shaft 32 is formed at the base of the slope 31 (the connection point with the transport conveyor 24). The rotation shaft 32 rotatably supports the slope 31. The rotation shaft 32 may also have a member that limits the rotation angle of the slope 31.

[0111] A counterweight 33 (biasing mechanism) is connected to the slope 31 across the rotary shaft 32. The counterweight 33 is a weight with a predetermined weight. The counterweight 33 makes it easier for the slope 31 to retreat upward when pushed by the article 3. That is, the counterweight 33 biases the slope 31 in the retreating direction.

[0112] Note that a spring (biasing mechanism) or the like that biases the slope 31 in the retracting direction may be connected to the slope 31 instead of the counterweight 33. The biasing mechanism that biases the slope 31 in the retracting direction is not limited to a specific configuration.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 12(a), in the initial state, the distance between the tip of the slope 31 and the transportation lane 13 is equal to the lane height (FIG. 12(a)). When the article 3a being conveyed by the conveyance lane 13 reaches the slope 31, the article 3a pushes against the slope 31. As a result, as shown in FIG. 12(b), the slope 31 retreats upward. Once the article 3a has passed, the slope 31 returns to its initial state.

[0114] The control unit 21 does not have to execute steps S14 to S17.

[0115] The depositing system 1 according to the second embodiment may have the features of the depositing system 1 according to the third embodiment. In this case, the control unit 21 does not need to execute S23, S24, and S26.

[0116] The slope 31 may also be retracted in the horizontal direction. The direction in which the slope 31 retracts is not limited to a specific direction.

[0117] The loading system configured as described above can ensure that no items are loaded on the slope when the items reach the slope in the sorter lane. Therefore, the loading system allows the slope to be smoothly retracted by the items being transported to the sorter pushing against it. Furthermore, the loading system allows the items to pass under the slope without controlling the slope's jump.

[0118] The program according to this embodiment may be transferred in a state where it is stored in an electronic device, or in a state where it is not stored in an electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or in a state where it is stored in a storage medium. The storage medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The storage medium is a computer-readable medium. The storage medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card, as long as it is capable of storing the program and is computer-readable.

[0119] 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. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 1...feeding system, 1'...feeding system, 1''...feeding system, 2...height sensor, 3...item, 3a...item, 5...prohibited feeding section, 10...sorter, 11''...feeding system, 13...conveying lane, 13a...conveying lane, 13b...conveying lane, 14...tray, 14a...tray, 14b...tray, 20...feeding device, 21...control unit, 23...feeding lane, 23'...feeding lane, 23''...feeding lane, 23a...feeding lane, 23b...feeding lane, 24...feeding conveyor, 25...feeding conveyor, 26...rotating shaft, 27...drive mechanism, 28...sensor interface, 29...ramp, 31...slope, 32...rotating shaft, 33...counterweight.

Claims

1. a loading mechanism that is formed at an angle toward a lane along which an article is transported, that loads an article onto the lane, and that retracts when an article that is higher than a predetermined threshold passes underneath the lane; a transport conveyor for supplying articles to the feeding mechanism; a processor that controls the transport conveyor so that no articles are loaded onto the insertion mechanism when the insertion mechanism is retracted; An input device comprising:

2. a sensor interface for receiving a detection signal indicative of a detection of an item in the lane that is higher than a predetermined threshold; The processor controls the transport conveyor based on the detection signal. The dosing device according to claim 1 .

3. The lane is composed of a plurality of trays, The processor sets loading positions for loading items onto a tray on the transport conveyor on which items higher than the predetermined threshold value are loaded and onto a predetermined number of trays before and after the tray, as no-loading zones on which items are not loaded, based on the detection signal. The dosing device according to claim 2 .

4. The processor stops the transport conveyor based on the detection signal. The dosing device according to claim 2 .

5. the processor stops the transport conveyor after a predetermined time has elapsed since receiving the detection signal; The dosing device according to claim 4.

6. a drive mechanism for retracting the insertion mechanism; Equipped with the processor causes the drive mechanism to retract the insertion mechanism; 6. A dosing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. The drive mechanism is formed above the input mechanism. The dosing device according to claim 6.

8. The feeding mechanism is composed of a conveyor. The dosing device according to claim 1 .

9. The insertion mechanism is a slope that is pushed by an item higher than the predetermined threshold to retreat. The dosing device according to claim 1 .

10. a biasing mechanism that biases the slope in a retracting direction; The dosing device according to claim 9.

11. a rotation shaft that rotatably supports the slope; The biasing mechanism is a counterweight provided on the upstream side of the slope with respect to the article input direction, across the rotation shaft. The dosing device according to claim 10.

12. The lane is composed of two parallel lanes, The feeding mechanism is composed of two parallel feeding mechanisms, The two insertion mechanisms are retracted when an article having a weight higher than the predetermined threshold passes under one of the two insertion mechanisms. The dosing device according to claim 6.

13. the drive mechanism retracts one of the feeding mechanisms when an article having a weight higher than the predetermined threshold passes under the one of the feeding mechanisms; The dosing device according to claim 12.

14. A system including a sorter and an input device, the sorter includes lanes for transporting articles; The input device is a loading mechanism that is formed at an angle toward the lane, that loads an item onto the lane, and that retracts when an item higher than a predetermined threshold passes underneath the lane; a transport conveyor for supplying articles to the feeding mechanism; a processor that controls the transport conveyor so that no articles are loaded onto the insertion mechanism when the insertion mechanism is retracted; Equipped with system.

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