Grades 3–5 · Systems
How does a parcel sorter choose a conveyor route?
A parcel sorter needs both information and moving machinery. A conveyor carries a parcel past a scanner, which reads an identifier on its label. A barcode is one way to represent that identifier as a pattern a scanner can read.
In the diagramAn ID scan selects a conveyor destinationP17ScanNorthReviewSouthID → destination record → diverterSelected destination: North
The identifier connects the parcel with a destination record. In this illustration, P17 points to the North route and P42 to the South route. The scanner does not push the parcel into either branch; it supplies information used to choose the route.
A moving guide called a diverter then directs the parcel along the selected conveyor path. An unreadable label takes this system's Review route instead of receiving a guessed destination. Other installations can use different rules. Correct sorting depends on readable information, a correct record and the physical mechanism acting at the right time; seeing a code alone does not complete the delivery.
About this explanation
Starting knowledge: Recognize an identifier label and distinguish a destination from the parcel itself.
Sources
- SICK — How the right track and trace system boosts DB Schenker parcel delivery