Patent ID: 6390274
Filing Date: 2002-05-21
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
A switching apparatus for an article sorting switch comprising:a pair of guide blocks defining spaced, substantially parallel guide surfaces for receiving and directing switch engaging members depending from pallets comprising an article sorting switch; a diverter block for receiving switch engaging members from the spaced, substantially parallel guide surfaces and selectively positionable in each of a plurality of switching orientations; the diverter block comprising spaced apart, opposed, inwardly curved diverter surfaces for directing switch engaging members received in the diverter block from the spaced, substantially parallel guide surfaces along first or third output paths depending upon the positioning of the diverter block; the inwardly curved diverter surfaces being spaced apart to define a second output path therebetween; and an actuator for slidably positioning the diverter block in first, second, and third switching orientations corresponding to the first, second, and third output paths.