Patent ID: 6059091
Filing Date: 2000-05-09
Classification: B07C

Abstract:
An apparatus for transferring sorted pieces provided with addresses into a row of pieces in accordance with a predetermined sequence of possible addresses, starting from at least two partial rows of sorted pieces in which the pieces are sorted in accordance with the predetermined sequence, the apparatus comprising a plurality of receiving elements and transporting means for successively transporting the receiving elements along a conveying path, and transfer devices located at transfer points along the conveying path, wherein the number of transfer devices is equal to the number of partial rows, wherein the transporting means is configured to convey the receiving elements past the transfer devices in a timed sequence determined by the transport of the receiving elements along the conveying path, and wherein the transfer devices are configured to be actuated selectively for transferring a sorted piece each from a respective partial row into one of the receiving elements as the receiving element travels past the transfer device, further comprising a control device for actuating the transfer devices by reading the address of a leading piece and in a timed sequence adjusted to the timed sequence of the transport of the receiving elements past the transfer devices, whereby the sorted pieces of all partial rows are arranged in the receiving elements in accordance with the predetermined sequence.