Sequence director for computer-controlled belt conveyor system - uses by=pass tracks for routing articles to and from connecting track without negotiating parallel waiting tracks

摘要

In the interests of space-saving and high throughput, the system provides entry and exit gps. (3,13) of waiting tracks (4-6,14-16) entered and left via individual junctions (26-38) and a connecting track (25). The junctions are switched automatically by a computer in response to signals from readers (39-50) of sequence and destination data encoded on the articles in transit. Space is provided on each waiting track (e.g. 6) for two or more waiting positions (11,12). A bypass track (23,24) is assigned to each gp. (3,13) and the circuit is completed by a return track (51) with another reader (54) at its entrance junction (53). USE/ADVANTAGE - In e.g. mass prodn. of motor vehicles. Emergency operation can be maintained by instructions from e.g. hand-held terminals even in event of failure of switching control computer.