GEBHARDT GridSorter®
A Single Solution for Sorting and Sequencing
The GEBHARDT GridSorter® is a flexible and efficient modular conveyor system designed to simplify the sorting and sequencing of goods. Developed in collaboration with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), this plug-and-play solution is well-suited for diverse applications, including e-commerce and cross-docking.
The GridSorter® consists of an interconnected area of 90-degree transfer units, resembling a chessboard of conveyor modules. Each module can process data and independently make decisions, enhancing overall system intelligence.
Key benefits include easy adaptation to changing layouts and throughput, high system availability with automatic failure detection and compensation, and a compact design that maximises space while optimising throughput. With the ability to independently process data and make decisions, the GridSorter® improves material flow continuity and offers a robust, scalable solution for modern intralogistics.
Advantages at a Glance
- High throughput and dynamic workload adjustments
- Modular design for easy maintenance and efficient performance
- Automatic failure handling ensures continuous operation
- Quick module replacement and minimal downtime for high availability
Modular, Flexible System Design
The GEBHARDT GridSorter® is powered by the GEBHARDT FlexConveyor, a modular, decentralised conveyor system. Each module can make autonomous decisions, thanks to built-in sensors and actuators that detect the position of goods and move them accordingly. The adaptable decentralised control system allows each module to communicate with others via Ethernet, enabling coordinated operation. This design not only makes the GridSorter® highly flexible but also ensures easy maintenance and quick replacement of individual modules, improving system uptime and minimising downtime.
Significant Optimisation of Planning
The GEBHARDT GridSorter® provides excellent planning flexibility. Thanks to its modular design and decentralized control system, it allows for easy adjustments to layouts and throughput to meet evolving requirements. The system enables customers to quickly create a rough layout, as it uses the same modular elements for sorting, inbound, and outbound operations. Our team can easily verify the required throughput, and planning for various environments—such as different layouts or terminal configurations—is straightforward. This modular approach ensures quick and efficient adaptation to changing operational needs.
Automatic Detection and Compensation of Failures
A key feature of the GEBHARDT GridSorter® is its ability to automatically detect and compensate for failures during operation. Because the system is decentralised, any failure or malfunction in a module is immediately identified and reported. Importantly, the other sorting modules continue to function normally, ensuring the system remains operational. Faulty modules can be quickly replaced, and the remaining modules will find alternative transport routes, maintaining an uninterrupted material flow. This decentralised design greatly enhances system availability compared to traditional centralised systems, which are vulnerable to a single point of failure.
Versatility Across Different Applications
The GEBHARDT GridSorter® is highly versatile and can be used in a wide range of applications, offering advantages beyond traditional sorting systems. With the capability to sort up to 12,000 items per hour, it boosts the performance of systems like miniloads, improving system efficiency and robustness. Its space-saving design and high availability make it a strong alternative to conventional systems such as sliding shoe sorters or cross-belt sorters. Additionally, its large buffer capacity and flexible layouts make it ideal for cross-docking applications, making the GridSorter® a versatile solution for various logistical needs.
Modular Plug&Play Sorter for Intralogistics – Fit for Industry 4.0
A plug&play sorter was developed as part of a collaborative project with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). It fulfils the requirements for ensuring easy commissioning and maximum flexibility with its modular design and decentralised control system. Unlike conventional sorters, the goods are not sorted by being ejected from a line or a ring. The new GridSorter® consists of an interconnected area of 90-degree transfer units. It resembles a chessboard of conveyor modules, each of which can process data and independently make decisions. The FlexConveyor is the basic module of the sorter.
Contact Us!
To enquire about our solutions or get support, call or send us a message.