The Whispersort is a slat-type shoe sorter based on a modular design. Assembled of individual pre-engineered sections using precision aluminum extrusions, its length can be changed by adding or deleting sections to a maximum length of 700 ft. Divert switches can be added or deleted. The switch assembly rides on aluminum track and can be easily moved to align with a new spur location. Actual mechanical and electrical switch relocation can be achieved and restored to full operation in 30 min. The sorter can be disassembled, rearranged, new sections or switches added when needed and re-assembled using only wrenches and screwdrivers.
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HK Systems Reacts to Changing Environments with Whispersort - The Modular Machine
Sliding shoe sorters first gained popularity in distribution industries during the early 1980’s. Their capability to increase throughput and accuracy revolutionized DC shipping operations. Soon warehouse architecture incorporated space provisions for shoe sorters in building layouts. Consequently, shoe sorters were designed and manufactured to be permanently installed and never significantly modified throughout their life.
HK Systems, North America’s leading automated material handling and supply chain software total solutions provider, recognized the traditional model for manufacturing and distribution industries was evolving toward agile business strategies that demanded the flexibility to rapidly and inexpensively rearrange material handling equipment to adapt to changing production processes. The HK Systems solution was to design Whispersort, a unique slat type shoe sorter based on modular concepts.
Assembled of individual pre-engineered sections using precision aluminum extrusions, Whispersort’s length can be changed at any time by adding or deleting sections to a maximum length of 700 feet.
The sorter can be initially provided to divert to one side then at a future time converted to a dual sided sorter by adding only a return switch to reposition the shoes for dual sorting.
Single or dual sided divert switches are designed as one piece assemblies. The “plug n play” electrical components are closely associated and are relocated with the switch, plugging into power and communications busses arranged along the sorter.
Divert switches can be added or deleted at any time throughout the sorters’ life. The divert switch assembly rides on aluminum track and can be easily moved to precisely align with a new spur location then fastened in place. Actual mechanical and electrical switch relocation can be achieved and restored to full operation in an amazing 30 minutes.
In addition, the care and maintenance of HK’s Whispersort is simple. Whispersort can be completely disassembled, rearranged, new sections or switches added when needed, and re-assembled using only and wrenches and screwdrivers.
For more information regarding HK Systems, its products and/or services, call 1-800-HKSYSTEMS or visit www.hksystems.com