A sliding shoe sorter is one of the most versatile methods for package sortation. Capable of handling a large range of package sizes, weights and types, the Axiom design achieves throughputs of up to 10,000 items per hour. It’s no wonder that this versatile type of sorter has become increasingly popular across the logistics and warehouse markets.
In warehousing, fulfilment, and ecommerce, demands for high-speed, accurate product processing are increasingly required. High costs and labour shortages demand efficient and flexible automation which is exactly what a sliding shoe sorter consistently delivers.
What is a sliding shoe sorter?
Axiom’s MSS sliding shoe sorter utilises a straight aluminium slat conveyor driven by an inverter-controlled AC motor. The sliding shoes, which form the divert mechanism, are mounted to the aluminium slats. It is the diversion of the shoes perpendicular to the slat movement that enables the packages to be diverted.
The shoe sorter has a compact footprint, especially compared with other sorting technologies. The MSS sorter features strong fabricated steel and aluminium centre frame sections bolted together with the drive and idler modules at either end.
The divert chutes or conveyors can be specified at a 20- or 30-degree angle to the direction of travel. Sortation can be to the left, right or both sides.
How does a shoe sorter work?
On the infeed conveyor, the individual packages are gapped and identified. Identification is usually achieved by automatic reading of a 1D or 2D printed code, or via RFID tags. This data indicates which divert lane the package is to be sent to.
Knowing the length of the package, the sorter assigns the optimum number of shoes to divert it. Digitally operated switches then divert the shoes as required at the correct station. The tangential motion of the shoes when diverting, provides a constant, gentle force against the packages, reducing jumping and potential damage.
Latest developments
Advancements have brought about significant improvements. Higher throughput speeds can be achieved whilst maintaining excellent accuracy.
Many of the sorter improvements developed by Axiom are in the control and guidance of the shoes, with enhanced detection systems to protect the sorter should anything unusual happen.
The modular nature of Axiom’s design allows specification to match the customer’s needs without increased engineering costs. This includes conveyor width and belt height; the angle and spacing of diverts, and single or double-sided sortation.
Axiom uses efficient manufacturing techniques to reduce lead-times whilst offering design flexibility. This includes laser cutting fabricated parts enabling higher tolerance repeatability, and in-house 3D printing of plastic components, such as the divert shoes.
Where are shoe sorters used?
One of the most versatile sorters, the sliding shoe sorter is designed to improve processing speeds and efficiency across a wide range of products.
What are the benefits?
A major benefit is the consistently high throughput rates achievable. Designed for high-speed sortation, sliding shoe sorters can accurately process 10,000 plus items per hour.
The diversity of product size is particularly beneficial; a single design can easily handle packages in the range of 150mm x 100mm x 50mm through to 1500mm x 800mm x 800mm high. Package types include parcels, totes, cartons, books, multi-media products, polybagged items and jiffy bags.
As the divert method is both positive and gentle, a sliding shoe sorter is particularly valuable when sorting fragile, or easily damaged goods. It represents the very best, low cost sortation technology for a busy warehouse or distribution centre.
Manufacturing in Britain
Tamworth based Axiom GB is the only company manufacturing sliding shoe sorters in the UK. With decades of experience in designing and making automated equipment, the company’s MSS sorter combines quality, accuracy and reliability. It also has a compact footprint and minimal power usage.
If you are looking to invest in automation and want to talk to a British company which combines quality engineering with high levels of professional service support, contact Axiom on 01827 61212 or email sales@axiomgb.com
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