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US 2003/0155213 A1Published application
Bi-directional package divert mechanism and method of use
AssigneeLockheed Martin Corporation
InventorsChristopher J. Tatar, Shane F. Mills
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A bi-directional package divert mechanism used for sorting mail and other packages and items into appropriate bins for future delivery. The mechanism includes a downward extending moving mechanism which is capable of moving items into one of two directions, both perpendicular to an original direction of travel. Sensors are provided which detect a position of the moving mechanism, items for moving and monitoring of other systems.
Claims22
A package divert mechanism, comprising:
- a frame member adapted for use with an existing conveyor system for transporting an item in an original direction;
- and
- a moveable diverting mechanism extending from the frame member, the moveable diverting mechanism being movable in at least one direction substantially perpendicular to the original direction of travel of the item being transported on the existing conveyor system.
A bidirectional divert mechanism, comprising:
- a frame having an entrance and a plurality of exits:
- a gliding mechanism extending across a frame member of the frame and adapted to move between opposing exits of the plurality of exits;
- a downward extending moveable blade member coupled to the gliding mechanism, the downward extending blade member having opposing blade surfaces and a longitudinal axis, the opposing blade surfaces facing opposing exits and the longitudinal axis extending in a direction between the entrance and another of the exits.
A method of diverting an item, comprising the steps of:
- locating a first home position and a second home position of a diverting mechanism;
- positioning the diverting mechanism at one of the first home position and the second home position;
- determining a diverting direction of the item based on classification information associated with the item;
- and
- controlling the diverting mechanism in accordance with the diverting direction.
2 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.