Infeed Control Algorithm of Sorting System Using Modified Trapezoidal Velocity Profiles

Abstract

This paper applies acceleration/deceleration control–based velocity profiles to an infeed control algorithm for a cross‐belt‐type sorting system to improve the accuracy and performance of the system's infeed. The velocity profiles are of a trapezoidal shape and often have to be modified to ensure that parcels correctly synchronize with their intended carriers. Under the proposed method, an infeed line can handle up to 5,600 items/h, which indicates a 40% increase in performance in comparison with its existing handling rate of 4,000 items/h. This improvement in performance may lead to a reduction in the number of infeed lines required in a sorting system. The proposed infeed control algorithm is applied to a cross‐belt‐type sorting system (model name: SCS 1500) manufactured by Vanderlande Industries.