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Небесная энциклопедия

Космические корабли и станции, автоматические КА и методы их проектирования, бортовые комплексы управления, системы и средства жизнеобеспечения, особенности технологии производства ракетно-космических систем

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Мониторинг СМИ

Мониторинг СМИ и социальных сетей. Сканирование интернета, новостных сайтов, специализированных контентных площадок на базе мессенджеров. Гибкие настройки фильтров и первоначальных источников.

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Форма поиска

Поддерживает ввод нескольких поисковых фраз (по одной на строку). При поиске обеспечивает поддержку морфологии русского и английского языка
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Применить Всего найдено 23428. Отображено 100.
26-04-2012 дата публикации

Each pick

Номер: US20120101627A1
Автор: John Lert
Принадлежит: CasePick Systems LLC

A warehousing system for storing and retrieving goods disposed in containers is provided. The system includes a multilevel storage array including an array of storage shelves for holding containers thereon, at least one substantially continuous lift for transporting containers to and from at least one level of the storage array, at least one transport vehicle located on the at least one level and configured to traverse a transport area transporting containers between the at least one continuous lift and container storage locations so that the at least one continuous lift communicates non-deterministically, via the transport vehicle, with storage locations of each of the storage shelves on the at least one level, an infeed transport system linked to the at least one continuous lift, and an order fulfillment station for generating order containers corresponding to customer orders where the order containers are entered onto the storage shelves of the storage array.

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Номер записи: 1
03-05-2012 дата публикации

Storage system having latchable wall panels and supports, kit such wall panels and supports, and assembly method for automatic storage systems

Номер: US20120103979A1
Автор: Harald Preschke
Принадлежит: Kardex Produktion Deutschland GMBH

The invention relates to an automatic storage system having a storage volume enclosed at least sectionwise by a covering made of at least one wall panel ( 3 ), wherein the wall panel ( 3 ) is attached to a support structure. The invention further relates to a kit for automatic storage systems and to a method for assembling an automatic storage system ( 1 ), wherein at least one wall panel ( 3 ) is placed on at least one support ( 8 ) substantially transverse to a longitudinal axis of the support ( 8 ). In order to simplify the assembly of the storage system, according to the invention, attachment segments ( 3 c ) or mounting segments ( 8 b ) designed as latching elements on the wall panels ( 3 ) and the supports ( 8 ) have at least one mounting surface ( 3 d ) facing outward.

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Номер записи: 2
28-06-2012 дата публикации

Flexible material handling, storage and retrieval apparatus and methods

Номер: US20120163946A1
Автор: Christian Wurll, Robert Hoffman
Принадлежит: KUKA Systems Corp North America

A case handling apparatus receives cases on a conveyor, picks cases therefrom and stores them, via a robot, in a bookcase storage system. The robot retrieves cases from storage and drops them on a discharge conveyor. Alternately, the robot does not pick cases, which then transfer or pass directly through respective pick-point and drop-point stations to discharge. Preferably cases are introduced and discharged from the apparatus on a single conveyor whether picked or passed through. A variety of bookcase storage systems are disclosed as are related and other methods.

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Номер записи: 3
12-07-2012 дата публикации

Core Storage and Management System

Номер: US20120179632A1
Автор: Daniel J. Pienta, David M. Pienta
Принадлежит: Automatic Handling International, AUTOMATIC HANDLING INTERNATIONAL Inc

A system and method for receiving, handling and storing used rolls following unwinding of sheet material therefrom includes: (a) transferring the cores to a remnant cleaning station, (b) inspecting for (i) remnant material, (ii) repairable damage or (iii) irreparable damage; and (c) for those cores cleaned, repaired, or satisfactory as is, transferring them to a storage rack for the specific size and length.

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Номер записи: 4
26-07-2012 дата публикации

Prepaid virtual card

Номер: US20120191517A1
Автор: Jeffrey William Tomey, Mack Paul Daffin, JR.
Принадлежит: Individual

A method for issuing a virtual financial instrument is disclosed, the method comprising receiving user identification information, receiving balance information, generating a financial instrument having a balance indicated by the balance information for a user indicated by the identification information, and providing a notification to the user that the financial instrument has been generated.

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Номер записи: 5
16-08-2012 дата публикации

Storage system

Номер: US20120207567A1
Автор: Roland Koholka
Принадлежит: KNAPP AG

In a storage system ( 1; 18 ) with at least one shelving level ( 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 ), comprising at least one transport aisle ( 10 ), shelves ( 8, 9; 19, 20 ) situated alongside the transport aisle ( 10 ) with storage spaces (L) for products (P) and a level transport device (EBG) movable in the transport aisle ( 10 ) for approaching the storage spaces (L), with a conveyor system ( 2; 24 ) for supplying products (P) to the shelving level ( 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 ) and removing therefrom, with at least one intermediate buffer (Z), in which the products (P) supplied by means of the conveyor system ( 2; 24 ) are temporarily stored until their storage in a storage space (L) and in which products (P) that are removed from the storage places (L) are temporarily stored until their transfer to the conveyor system ( 2; 24 ), there is provided that substantially each storage space (L) has a movable compartment floor (F) and that the level transport device (EBG) has compartment floor-moving means, by means of which a compartment floor (F) may be transferred from the storage space (L) into the level transport device (EBG) and vice versa and from the level transport device (EBG) into the intermediate buffer (Z) and vice versa so that the compartment floor (F) does not pass onto the conveyor system ( 2; 24 ).

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Номер записи: 6
13-12-2012 дата публикации

Method of slicing products

Номер: US20120312136A1
Автор: Kai Andre Briel, Sergej Garaew
Принадлежит: WEBER MASCHINENBAU GMBH BREIDENBACH

In a method of slicing products, a plurality of products are fed simultaneously on parallel conveying tracks to a cutting plane in which at least one cutting blade moves, in particular in a rotating and/or revolving manner. A number of produces exceeding the number of conveying tracks is provided, at least one product parameter is determined for each provided product, a set of products corresponding to the number of conveying tracks is selected from the provided products and the selected set of products is fed to the cutting plane on the conveying tracks.

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Номер записи: 7
21-03-2013 дата публикации

STORAGE AND PICKING SYSTEM

Номер: US20130073076A1
Автор: Mathi Franz, Uller Klaus
Принадлежит: KNAPP AG

In a method for order picking products (P) in an order picking facility () having at least one rack (R to R; K to K) for storing products (P) and an assigned warehouse transport system for collecting and storing the products (P) and for transferring the collected products (P) to a transport system (FO), by means of which the collected products (P) are transported to a good to picker order picking station (WZM), at which the quantity of the collected products (O) that is determined in a picking order is order-picked manually or automatically by a robot, respectively, into one order transport unit (A) for each picking order, wherein product types corresponding to the picking order are collected, order-picked at the good to picker order picking station (WZM) one after the other and wherein the remaining products (P) of the product type are stored via the transport system (FO) again in the rack (R to R; K to K), wherein the warehouse transport system further transfers collected products (P) via at least one through-channel (D) to an intermediate storage site (Z) of a central belt technology order picking station (ZBF, ZBF), from where collected products (P) are manually or automatically by robot, respectively, supplied to a central belt technology (ZF) on a central belt (ZB) of the central belt technology (ZF) and that, irrespective of whether a product (P) is to be order picked at the good to picker order picking station (WZM) or at the central belt technology order picking station (ZBF, ZBF), the product (P) is collected from the same storage site of the rack (R to R; K to K). 1121414111414121121414. A method for the order picking of products (P) in an order picking facility (; ) having at least one rack (R to R; K to K) for storing the products (P) and one assigned warehouse transport system for collecting and storing the products (P) and for transferring the collected products (P) to a transport system (FO) , by means of which the collected products (P) are ...

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Номер записи: 8
28-03-2013 дата публикации

METHOD AND A SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING MATERIAL THAT CONTAINS BIOMASS

Номер: US20130079922A1
Автор: Laakkonen Perttu, Palokangas Juha
Принадлежит: UPM-KYMMENE CORPORATION

A method for processing material that contains biomass. The material is led onto a conveyor. The conveyor conveys the material to an apparatus for mechanical processing and/or to a further processing plant. The moisture content is measured and/or the size of pieces of non-combustible material and/or the content of non-combustible material in the material flow is measured in connection with the conveyor. Based on at least one of the measurements, material is conveyed to the material to be conveyed for further processing and/or to the apparatus for mechanical processing, or to at least one material to be conveyed elsewhere than to the further processing plant or the apparatus for mechanical processing. Also a system for processing material that contains biomass. 122-. (canceled)23. A method for processing material that contains wood-based material , the method comprising:guiding the material to a conveyor, the conveyor guiding the material to an apparatus for mechanical processing and/or to a further processing plant;measuring a moisture content in a material flow in connection with said conveyor, and/ormeasuring a size of pieces of non-combustible material in the material flow in connection with said conveyor, and/ormeasuring a quantity of non-combustible material in the material flow in connection with said conveyor; andconveying, based on said at least one measurement, material to further processing and/or to material to be conveyed to an apparatus of mechanical processing, or to at least one material to be conveyed elsewhere than a further processing plant or an apparatus of mechanical processing.24. The method according to claim 23 , further comprising:conveying material that contains wood-based material to said apparatus of mechanical processing, utilizing a first conveyor;measuring, upstream of said apparatus, the size of pieces of at least non-combustible material with a measuring device, anddetermining, on said measurement on the size of pieces, whether said ...

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Номер записи: 9
06-06-2013 дата публикации

Automated Self Storage System

Номер: US20130144427A1
Автор: III Anthony V., Pugliese, Talley Paul A.
Принадлежит: AVP IP HOLDING CO., LLC

An automated self storage facility which stores individual items in movable storage units and/or storage containers which are stored throughout the storage facility. Limited users access to the facility is provided at predesignated locations. The users container is transported between its storage location and the access location by the automated robotic system within the facility to provide efficient handling, storage and retrieval of goods in a storage facility. A central control system maintains a record container location throughout the facility. Upon request the system retrieves a container and delivers it. The containers may be partitioned such that a single container may have multiple compartments. In this case the automated system maintains a record of compartments and appropriately orients the container at the access location upon retrieval. 114-. (canceled)15. A method of operating an automated self storage system or system within a facility , the method comprising the steps of:providing a plurality of storage locations, at least one access location and at least one storage container;providing a control system and a user interface, the control system further comprising a retrieval mode and a storage mode;providing a handling system for delivering the at least one storage container from a first storage location to the at least one access location during the retrieval mode, and for returning the at least one storage container from the at least one access location to a second storage location during the storage mode, wherein the first and second storage locations are different, and wherein the second storage location is not predetermined prior to delivery of the at least one storage container to the at least one access location, but is determined when returning the at least one storage container from the at least one access location based upon a control system tracked and maintained history of storage container movement and user access;receiving instructions ...

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Номер записи: 10
20-06-2013 дата публикации

Automated Warehouse and Article Removal Method

Номер: US20130158701A1
Автор: Nomura Misaki
Принадлежит: MURATA MACHINERY, LTD.

A clean stocker includes: a reticle rotatable rack separately storing reticles and a pod; an empty pod rotatable rack; a manual load port supplying to an operator a pod including a reticle; a pod-with-reticle rotatable rack temporarily storing the pod including the reticle; a detecting unit detecting an instruction sent from the operator; a pod opener for, when a first instruction is detected, obtaining (i) a reticle from the reticle rotatable rack and (ii) an empty pod from the empty pod rotatable rack, and placing the obtained reticle into the empty pod; and a pod transporting apparatus (i) putting on the pod-with-reticle rotatable rack the pod including the reticle, and (ii) when a second instruction is detected, transporting the pod including the reticle from the pod-with-reticle rotatable rack to the manual load port. 1. An automated warehouse comprising:a storage rack which separately stores articles and a case for containing at least one of the articles;a load port which supplies to an operator the at least one article contained in the case;a temporary storage rack which temporarily stores the at least one article contained in the case until the at least one article is transported to the load port;a detecting unit configured to detect an instruction sent from the operator;a placing apparatus which, when the detecting unit detects a first instruction indicating that a predetermined one of the articles is to be taken out, (i) obtains the predetermined article and a case from the storage rack, and (ii) places the obtained predetermined article in the case; anda transporting apparatus which (i) puts, on the temporary storage rack, the predetermined article placed in the case by the placing apparatus, and, (ii) when the detecting unit detects a second instruction indicating that the predetermined article is actually ready to be taken out, transports the predetermined article placed in the case from the temporary storage rack to the load port.2. The automated ...

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Номер записи: 11
27-06-2013 дата публикации

Methods And Apparatus For Stacking Receptacles In Materials Handling Facilities

Номер: US20130166062A1
Автор: Jackie W. Casey, Zachary Shane Morgan
Принадлежит: Amazon Technologies Inc

Methods and apparatus for stacking receptacles in materials handling facilities. An automated receptacle stacker may be integrated into a materials handling system to receive empty receptacles from upstream stations via an input conveyance mechanism, add the receptacles to a stack in a stack hopper, detect when the stack is complete, and output the stack onto an output conveyance mechanism. The output conveyance mechanism may convey the stack to a palletization station, and the stacker may begin another stack. This process may continue to build and output stacks of empty receptacles. In some implementations the receptacles may be stackable only when oriented correctly; in these implementations, orientation of the receptacles may be detected prior to stacking and incorrectly oriented receptacles may be either rotated to the correct orientation or diverted to a second receptacle stacker.

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Номер записи: 12
18-07-2013 дата публикации

Rotating device for receiving and handling goods

Номер: US20130181586A1
Автор: Ingvar Hognaland
Принадлежит: JAKOB HATTELAND LOGISTICS AS

The present invention relates to a rotating device ( 1 ) for receiving and handling goods or products, where the device ( 1 ) comprises a number of holding devices ( 5 ) designed for receiving storage devices ( 4 ), where the holding devices ( 5 ) are rotatable about a central axis in the rotating device by means of a common drive arrangement, with the result that at least one holding device ( 5 ) with a received storage device ( 4 ) is made available to an operator, while at least one other holding device ( 5 ) is made available for receiving a storage device ( 4 ).

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Номер записи: 13
18-07-2013 дата публикации

ROBOTIC AUTOMATED STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM MIXED PALLET BUILD SYSTEM

Номер: US20130184854A1
Автор: Bastian, Calloway Britt, II William A.
Принадлежит: Bastian Solutions, LLC

A robotic automated storage and retrieval system (AS/RS) mixed pallet build system includes a rack that includes two or more verticals levels upon which items are stored. The system includes a three-dimensional robotic AS/RS that includes a carriage, robot arm, vertical lift, and horizontal propulsion system. The items from the rack are loaded upon the carriage to create a pallet. The robot arm is configured to stack the items from the racks onto the pallet. The vertical lift is configured to move the carriage vertically between the vertical levels of the racks. The horizontal propulsion system is configured to move the carriage horizontally along the rack so that the carriage is able to service the entire length of the rack. The three-dimensional robotic AS/RS also includes a stretch wrapper that progressively secures the layers of items on the pallet to prevent the items from falling off the pallet. 1. A method , comprising:moving a three-dimensional robotic automated storage and retrieval system in a vertical direction to a first position;loading items from a rack at the first position onto the three-dimensional robotic automated storage and retrieval system;moving the three-dimensional robotic automated storage and retrieval system in a horizontal direction to a second position; andloading items from the rack at the second position onto the three-dimensional robotic automated storage and retrieval system.21. The method of clam , in which said loading items from the rack at the first position includes loading items with a robot arm secured to the three-dimensional robotic automated storage and retrieval system.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:progressively securing vertical layers of the items on the three-dimensional robotic automated storage and retrieval system by stretch wrapping the layer as soon as a layer is complete with a stretch wrapper on the three-dimensional robotic automated storage and retrieval system.4. The method of claim 3 , ...

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Номер записи: 14
29-08-2013 дата публикации

PICKING METHOD AND SYSTEM

Номер: US20130223959A1
Автор: Koholka Roland
Принадлежит: KNAPP AG

During picking products (P) stored in high-bay racking (R), the products are transported to manual goods-to-person picking stations (M-M) by means of a conveyor system (). Order transport units (B) can be supplied to the goods-to-person picking stations (M-M), into which order transport units products supplied to the goods-to-person picking stations (M-M) are picked manually according to picking orders. All products (P) of the high-bay racking (R) which are to be picked manually can be supplied to all goods-to-person picking stations (M-M). If a picking order includes products (P) to be picked manually, at least one order transport unit (B) is allocated to those products to be picked manually, wherein each order transport unit is supplied to only one manual goods-to-person picking station (M-M) at which all products to be picked manually which have been allocated to this order transport unit are picked. The respective order transport unit (B) is transported to the manual goods-to-person picking station (M-M) only when said picking station is ready to be filled with products (P) according to a picking order. 12181818. A method of picking products (P) stored in high-bay racking (R) , wherein a storage transport system (LT) for storing the products (P) and retrieving them from storage and for transferring products (P) retrieved from storage to a conveyor system () is allocated to the high-bay racking , by means of which conveyor system products (P) retrieved from storage can be transported to one or several , preferably at least two , manual goods-to-person picking stations (M-M) , wherein order transport units (B) , such as , e.g. , order containers , trays , pallets , can be supplied to the goods-to-person picking stations (M-M) , into which order transport units products supplied to the goods-to-person picking stations (M-M) are picked manually according to picking orders and in the number of pieces specified in the picking orders , [{'b': 1', '8, 'all products (P) ...

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Номер записи: 15
29-08-2013 дата публикации

Storage shelf system for storing storage goods

Номер: US20130223961A1
Автор: Joachim Hanel
Принадлежит: Haenel and Co

The invention relates to a storage shelf system ( 10 ) for storing storage goods, comprising at least one service opening ( 18 ) for introducing and for removing storage goods, at least one revolving storage shelf unit ( 20, 30 ) having a plurality of storage locations and at least one storage shelf unit ( 40 ) which has at least one shelving column having storage locations disposed one above the other. The invention further relates to a transfer device ( 60 ) for transporting the storage goods ( 12 ) from a storage location in the storage shelf unit ( 40 ) to a storage location in the revolving storage shelf unit ( 20, 30 ) and vice versa.

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Номер записи: 16
29-08-2013 дата публикации

FAST-ACCESS SELF-REPAIRING TAPE LIBRARY USING MOBILE ROBOTS

Номер: US20130226333A1
Автор: McClelland Gary M.
Принадлежит: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION

In some embodiments, a system includes a plurality of tape reels positioned on a lower surface, a tape drive for reading data from a tape on one of the plurality of tape reels, and at least one mobile robot configured for selectively retrieving at least one of the plurality of tape reels and transporting the at least one retrieved tape reel to the tape drive. 1. A system , comprising:a plurality of tape reels;a tape drive configured for reading data from tape stored on at least one of the plurality of tape reels; selectively retrieving one or more of the plurality of tape reels; and', 'transporting the one or more retrieved tape reels to the tape drive, wherein the robot moves unconstrained along a first surface; and, 'a mobile robot having a volume of less than about 1000 cubic inches, the robot configured fora controller for directing movement of the robot.2. A system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the plurality of tape reels are supported by a second surface located within about 15 cm of the first surface claim 1 , and wherein the first surface is different than the second surface.3. A system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the system is configured to permit the mobile robot to locate claim 1 , retrieve claim 1 , and transport any one selected tape reel to the tape drive claim 1 , and to initialize reading of the tape by the tape drive within about five seconds of receiving a request to read data from the tape of the selected tape reel.4. A system as recited in claim 1 , wherein at least two mobile robots move along the first surface.5. A system as recited in claim 1 , where the tape is stored on a pair of tape reels.6. A system as recited in claim 1 , wherein at least five mobile robots move along the first surface.7. A system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the system is configured to allow removal of a failed mobile robot using another mobile robot.8. A system as recited in claim 1 , wherein the mobile robot is adapted for moving and/or relocating a tape ...

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Номер записи: 17
19-09-2013 дата публикации

STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM CASE UNIT DETECTION

Номер: US20130245810A1
Автор: Sullivan Robert, Toebes Stephen C.
Принадлежит:

An automated storage and retrieval system including a storage structure with storage racks having a seating surface configured to support case units where a position of each case unit is non-deterministic for each storage location on the storage racks, each case unit has a predetermined storage position and a controller is configured to determine the predetermined storage position, a picking aisle configured to provide access to the case units within the storage structure, and a seismic disturbance restorative system including seismic disturbance motions sensors disposed on the storage racks, a seismic disturbance control module in communication with the seismic disturbance sensors and configured to identify a seismic disturbance, and an automated case mapper configured to traverse the picking aisle, the automated case mapper being in communication with and initialized by the seismic disturbance control module to identify a seated position of at least one case unit within the storage structure. 1. An automated storage and retrieval system for cases in a case storage room , the automated storage and retrieval system comprising:a storage structure with storage racks configured to support case units;a controller, where each case unit has a predetermined storage position in which the case unit is seated on the storage racks and the controller is configured to determine the predetermined storage position;a picking aisle configured to provide access to the case units within the storage structure; andan automated case mapper configured to traverse the picking aisle, the automated case mapper being configured to identify a seated position of at least one case unit within the storage structure; compare the identified seated position of the at least one case unit received from the case mapper with the predetermined position of the at least one case unit and identify a variance between the identified seated position and the predetermined position of the at least one case unit, ...

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Номер записи: 18
19-09-2013 дата публикации

FAST-ACCESS SELF-REPAIRING TAPE LIBRARY USING MOBILE ROBOTS

Номер: US20130245813A1
Автор: McClelland Gary M.
Принадлежит: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION

A method according to one embodiment includes causing, using a controller, a mobile robot having a volume of less than about 1000 cubic inches to selectively retrieve one or more of a plurality of tape reels; and causing the mobile robot to transport the one or more retrieved tape reels to a tape drive that is configured for reading data from tape stored on at least one of the plurality of tape reels. A method according to another embodiment includes causing, using a controller, at least one mobile robot to selectively retrieve at least one of a plurality of tape reels positioned on a lower surface; and causing the mobile robot(s) to transport the retrieved tape reels to a tape drive. Preferably, the mobile robot(s) in either embodiment move unconstrained, e.g., along an upper surface that overlies the plurality of tape reels. 1. A method , comprising:causing, using a controller, a mobile robot having a volume of less than about 1000 cubic inches to selectively retrieve one or more of a plurality of tape reels; andcausing the mobile robot to transport the one or more retrieved tape reels to a tape drive that is configured for reading data from tape stored on at least one of the plurality of tape reels,wherein the robot moves unconstrained along a first surface.2. A method as recited in claim 1 , wherein the plurality of tape reels are supported by a second surface located within about 15 cm of the first surface claim 1 , and wherein the first surface is different than the second surface.3. A method as recited in claim 1 , wherein the mobile robot locates claim 1 , retrieves claim 1 , and transports any one selected tape reel to the tape drive; and initializing reading of the tape by the tape drive within about five seconds of receiving a request to read data from the tape of the selected tape reel.4. A method as recited in claim 1 , wherein at least two mobile robots move along the first surface.5. A method as recited in claim 1 , where the tape is stored on a pair ...

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Номер записи: 19
03-10-2013 дата публикации

Pickup location monitoring

Номер: US20130261792A1
Автор: Girish LAKSHMAN, LIN Wan, Michael Mahesh Bhaskaran, Piyush Gupta
Принадлежит: Amazon Technologies Inc

A pickup location that includes a control station and one or more storage compartment modules provides the ability for items to be ordered and delivered for pickup by a user without having to pack those items in a shipping package prior to shipping from a materials handling facility. Delivering items for pickup by a user without having to package the items prior to shipping, may provide a better experience for the customer, reduce waste in packaging material and a lower cost of delivering the ordered items to the customer.

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Номер записи: 20
10-10-2013 дата публикации

Specimen Carrier Supply and Delivery Device

Номер: US20130264299A1
Автор: Loehr Andreas, Nagel Lukas, Rippl Christopher Mark, Scherer Sebastian, Tide Ralf, Wagner Uwe
Принадлежит: Maerzhaeuser Wetzlar GmbH & Co. KG

Provided is a specimen carrier supply and delivery device having at least one specimen carrier magazine with separate compartments for receiving interchangeably specimen carriers and a magazine lift, which is adjustable in height in a magazine carrier frame for receiving interchangeably specimen carrier magazines. Two pairs of bars, which stand vertically and parallel to one another, are arranged in the magazine carrier frame, wherein the magazine lift is guided in a height adjustable manner on the two complementary first bars of the bar pairs. An equal-sided coupling frame, which is aligned vertically to the plane formed by the first bars, with a bridge, which is arranged parallel to the plane, is mounted in a sliding manner on the two complementary second bars of the pairs of bars. A linear scale, which is aligned parallel to the direction of the bars, is fastened to the magazine lift. A sensor for reading the position of the coupling frame relative to the linear scale is disposed on the sliding mounting of the coupling frame. A carrier element, which is aligned transversely to the direction of the bars and is configured for a linear motor with a spindle for adjusting the height of the magazine lift relative to the current position of the sensor, is arranged on the magazine carrier frame. 1. A specimen carrier supply and delivery device comprising:at least one specimen carrier magazine having separate compartments for receiving interchangeably specimen carriers;a magazine lift, which is adjustable in height in a magazine carrier frame for receiving interchangeably specimen carrier magazines,two pairs of bars, which stand vertically and parallel to one another, and are arranged in the magazine carrier frame, wherein the magazine lift is guided in a height adjustable manner on two complementary first bars of the pairs of bars;an equal-sided coupling frame, which is aligned vertically to the plane formed by the first bars with a bridge, which is arranged parallel to ...

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Номер записи: 21
07-11-2013 дата публикации

LIBRARY APPARATUS

Номер: US20130294872A1
Автор: Hori Daisuke
Принадлежит: FUJITSU LIMITED

A library apparatus includes: a storage rack configured to be capable of storing a plurality of recording media; a recording-and-reproducing device configured to perform a recording operation and a reproducing operation on the recording media; a robot configured to deliver the recording media between the storage rack and the recording-and-reproducing device using a hand mechanism; an elevator platform configured to carry the hand mechanism; a pair of toothed belts, provided between a driving pulley and a driven pulley, configured to move the elevator platform vertically; a pair of belt-connecting portions configured to couple one of ends of the elevator platform to one of the pair of toothed belts respectively; and a disconnecting mechanism configured to release at least one of connections at the pair of belt connecting portions. 1. A library apparatus comprising:a storage rack configured to be capable of storing a plurality of recording media;a recording-and-reproducing device configured to perform a recording operation and a reproducing operation on the recording media;a robot configured to deliver the recording media between the storage rack and the recording-and-reproducing device using a hand mechanism;an elevator platform configured to carry the hand mechanism;a pair of toothed belts, provided between a driving pulley and a driven pulley, configured to move the elevator platform vertically;a pair of belt-connecting portions configured to couple one of ends of the elevator platform to one of the pair of toothed belts respectively; anda disconnecting mechanism configured to release at least one of connections at the pair of belt connecting portions.2. The library apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein each of the pair of belt-connecting portions includes a fixed portion provided on the elevator platform and an engaging piece that moves relative to the fixed portion.3. The library apparatus according to claim 2 ,wherein the engaging piece includes a teeth ...

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Номер записи: 22
21-11-2013 дата публикации

STORAGE DEVICE

Номер: US20130309051A1
Автор: KISHIDA Akira, OKADA Atsushi, SATOU Toshimichi, YAMAGATA Hirotoshi
Принадлежит: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA

A storage device includes: a storage member having, in the vertical direction, a plurality of parallel storage sections that are capable of storing plate-like members; and a first lifting and lowering mechanism that causes the plate-like members, stored in the storage member, to move integrally in the vertical direction, while the position of the storage member in the vertical direction is maintained. 1. A storage device storing plate-like members vertically stored over a plurality of tiers ,the storage device comprising:a storage member having, in a vertical direction, a plurality of parallel storage sections, that are capable of storing the plate-like members; anda first lifting and lowering mechanism that causes the plate-like members, stored in the storage member, to move integrally in the vertical direction, while the position of the storage member in the vertical direction is maintained2. The storage device according to claim 1 , whereinthe storage member is a plurality of screw shafts that extend parallel to each other in the vertical direction, and the plate-like members are supported through insertion of end sections of the plate-like members into thread grooves that are at a same height position of the screw shafts and that serve as the storage sections; andthe first lifting and lowering mechanism is provided with screw shaft support sections that rotationally support respective screw shafts about the axes thereof, and with a rotation driving mechanism that causes the screw shafts to rotate synchronously in a same direction, such that the plate-like members are moved in the vertical direction along the thread grooves as a result of rotational driving of the screw shafts.3. The storage device according to claim 1 , comprising a pair of the storage members each having a plurality of shelves juxtaposed in the vertical direction opposing each other claim 1 , such that both ends of the plate-like members are supported claim 1 , from outside claim 1 , by the ...

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Номер записи: 23
02-01-2014 дата публикации

Device for storing and feeding of raw materials of fruit and/or vegetables

Номер: US20140001011A1
Автор: Shahram POURSHAKOUR
Принадлежит: Individual

Disclosed is a device for storing and feeding of raw materials during production of fruit- and/or vegetable-juice, which device includes a number of storage and feed units for fruit/vegetables and/or pieces of fruit/vegetables, and a bottom element. Disclosed features are that the storage and feed units are situated on a support disc, that each of the storage and feed units is allocated an outlet aperture in the support disc, that a feed disc is situated below the support disc, that the feed disc is rotatably supported by the bottom element and is provided with a feed aperture, and that the feed disc is rotatable relative to the support disc so that the feed aperture can be brought central to any desired outlet aperture, and a unit for conveying to a juice machine the fruit/vegetables and/or pieces of fruit/vegetables fed.

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Номер записи: 24
16-01-2014 дата публикации

APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATED DISPENSING OF INDIVIDUALLY PACKAGED PRODUCTS

Номер: US20140017044A1
Автор: Clark Justin J., Culbertson Wyatt, Fisher Christopher J., Gerdeman Roger J., Hawkes Kimberly, Hoenig Steven D., Snodgrass Richard W.
Принадлежит: ATS AUTOMATION TOOLING SYSTEMS INC.

A system for assembling and dispensing an order made up of one or more individually packaged items from a plurality of different individually packaged items includes a storage module containing one or more packages of each of the items, and a conveyor having selectively assignable spaces configured to receive the packaged items associated with a particular order and to transport the packaged items to a processing location. A pick device is movable relative to the storage module and is configured to retrieve a package from the storage module. A transfer station adjacent the conveyor receives one or more of the packaged items from the pick device and an actuator associated with the transfer station moves the packaged items from the transfer station to the conveyor when the assigned space associated with the order is in registration with the transfer station. 1. A system for assembling and dispensing an order comprising a selection of individually packaged items selected from a plurality of different individually packaged items , the system comprising:a storage module containing the plurality of different individually packaged items;a conveyor comprising assigned spaces configured to receive the selection of individually packaged items associated with the order and adapted to transport the selection of individually packaged items;a pick device movable to access said storage module and configured to retrieve individually packaged items from said storage module;a transfer module for receiving the individually packaged items from said pick device that are associated with the selection of individually packaged items; andan actuator associated with said transfer module and operative to move the selection of individually packaged items from said transfer module to said conveyor when said selectively assignable space associated with the order is in registration with said transfer module.2. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a sensor provided proximate to the pick ...

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Номер записи: 25
30-01-2014 дата публикации

RECIRCULATING CONTINUOUS STORAGE APPARATUS

Номер: US20140027242A1
Автор: Engle Raphael Abraham
Принадлежит: REC Equipment Limited

A continuous storage apparatus holds carriers each having many vertical shelves to be continuously loaded and unloaded by pushers at adjacent positions. The conveyor order of arrival of items is maintained on departure. Shelves hold items to be frozen or cooked during storage by a forward or backward (countercurrent) flow of recirculating cold or hot air within the tunnels of the machine. Carrier motion is provided by lifting and lowering conveyor chains at both ends of the tunnels and by shunting the carriers, supported by wheels or skids on rails along the tunnels, when pushed by an actuator. 1103433) A recirculating storage apparatus having an enclosed housing , wherein one or more items received from a first or incoming item transport means or conveyor are held in a internal transport conveyor having a closed loop configuration providing for a retention time within a controlled environment , and then are transferred to a second or outgoing item transport means or conveyor ; characterised in that the apparatus includes:{'b': 20', '20', '26', '26', '34', '37, 'a) a plurality of internal recirculating carriers , A occupying the internal transport conveyor; each carrier having a vertical series of horizontal shelves , A each having a length, and wherein the input conveyor has a direction of movement aligned along the length of the shelves so that each shelf can be loaded at a loading station from a series of transported items by one pushing motion of an actuator having a pushing surface nearly as wide as the length of any shelf;'}{'b': 33', '26', '26', '33', '36, 'b) wherein the output conveyor has a direction of movement aligned along the length of the shelves so that each shelf , A can be unloaded on to at least one conveyor at an unloading station by one pushing motion of an actuator ; and wherein the loading and the unloading stations are adjacent,'}{'b': 21', '24', '12', '21', '25', '13', '21, 'c) and wherein the closed loop configuration of the internal ...

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Номер записи: 26
30-01-2014 дата публикации

MOVING CARTRIDGE BETWEEN LIBRARY STRINGS

Номер: US20140030049A1
Автор: Hirata Takamasa, IMAI Naoki, IWASAKI Norie, KAMIYA Masanori
Принадлежит: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION

A library manager to determine a relay-point library string when a particular cartridge (specific cartridge) is moved to an empty drive (target drive) for mounting. A method for determining a relay-point library string includes: receiving a command to mount a cartridge in a library string located on one side of the relay-point library string; searching for the target drive among library strings, and finding the target drive in a library string on the other side of an interposed relay-point library string relative to the library string in which the specific cartridge is located; selecting a relay-point library string based on predetermined conditions to move the specific cartridge using shuttle connections to the found target drive; and searching to determine whether or there is a newly available drive in a relay-point library string other than the selected relay-point library string before the selected cartridge reaches the selected relay-point library string. 1. In a shuttle complex system having a plurality of library strings (LS) connected by at least two shuttle connections (SC) , the shuttle connections moving a cartridge including a storage medium between library strings LS via at least two relay-point library strings LS (relay-point LS) among the library strings LS using a movable car ,a method for determining a relay-point library string when a library manager moves a particular cartridge (specific cartridge) to an empty drive (target drive) for mounting, the method comprising:(a) receiving a command from an application to mount a specific cartridge in a library string located on one side of the relay-point library string;(b) searching for the target drive for mounting the specific cartridge among the plurality of library strings LS, and finding the target drive in a library string on an other side of an interposed relay-point library string relative to the library string in which the specific cartridge is located;(c) selecting a relay-point library string ...

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Номер записи: 27
30-01-2014 дата публикации

METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SORTING OR RETREIVING ITEMS

Номер: US20140031972A1
Автор: Chezik Peter M., DeWitt Robert R., Kartik S., Stahl Ola, Valinsky Joseph
Принадлежит:

A method and apparatus are provided for sorting or retrieving items to/from a plurality of destinations areas. The items are loaded onto one of a plurality of independently controlled delivery vehicles. The delivery vehicles follow a track that guides the delivery vehicles to/from the destination areas, which are positioned along the track. Once at the appropriate destination area, an item is transferred between the delivery vehicle and the destination area. 130-. (canceled)31. A material handling system , comprising:a plurality of storage locations arranged into a series of rows or columns;a track adjacent the storage locations, wherein the track comprises a plurality of rows or columns;a plurality of vehicles for delivering items to the storage locations or retrieving items from the storage locations, wherein each vehicles comprises an onboard motor for driving the vehicle along the track to or from one of the storage locations; identifies a second storage location at which a second item is to be retrieved by the vehicle;', 'identifies storage location available to receive the first item;', 'attempts to minimize the travel distance between the storage location identified for receiving the first item and the storage location where the second item is located;', 'directs the vehicle to the storage location identified for receiving the first item; and', 'directs the vehicle to the storage location at which the second item is located after the vehicle discharges the first item;, 'a controller for independently controlling each vehicle, wherein the controller is configured to control one of the vehicles carrying a first item that the vehicle retrieved from a first storage location, wherein the controller iswherein the vehicle comprises a transfer mechanism for transferring the second item onto the vehicle convey the second item to a location where the second item can be removed from the vehicle to fill an order for the second item.32. The system of wherein when the ...

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Номер записи: 28
06-02-2014 дата публикации

Glass Substrate Cassette and Pick-and-Place System for Glass Substrate

Номер: US20140037406A1
Автор: Li Xiande, Lin Kunhsien, Qi Minghu, Wang Yongqiang, Wu Chunhao, Yang Weibing
Принадлежит: Shenzhen China Star Optoelectronics Technology Co. Ltd.

The present invention discloses a glass substrate cassette and pick-and-place system for glass substrates. The glass substrate cassette comprises: a cassette case, comprising a pair of side walls disposed in parallel and vertically; and a plurality of support racks, disposed inside the cassette case for supporting glass substrates, each support rack comprising a pair of connecting elements supporting respectively the pair of side walls and a plurality of support elements lined up in parallel along a first horizontal direction and connected to the pair of connecting elements, connecting element able to move along the first horizontal direction with respect to the side walls and at least partially beyond the cassette case. The support rack of the present invention can move beyond cassette to realize random pick-and-place of glass substrate at any layer. 1. A glass substrate cassette for storing glass substrates , which comprises:a cassette case, comprising a pair of side walls disposed in parallel and vertically;a plurality of support racks, disposed inside the cassette case for supporting glass substrates, disposed vertically with spacing gaps, each support rack comprising a pair of connecting elements supporting respectively the pair of side walls and a plurality of support elements lined up in parallel along a first horizontal direction and connected to the pair of connecting elements along a second horizontal direction perpendicular to the first horizontal direction, the support elements being metal rods; andlocking device, located on two ends of side walls for stopping connecting elements from moving along the first horizontal direction with respect to the side walls in a locked state, and allowing connecting element to move along the first horizontal direction with respect to the side walls and at least partially beyond the cassette case in an unlocked state.2. The glass substrate cassette as claimed in claim 1 , characterized in that the metal rod is covered ...

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Номер записи: 29
06-02-2014 дата публикации

METHOD OF TRANSPORTING AND SORTING AND SYSTEM FOR EXERCISING THE METHOD

Номер: US20140039669A1
Автор: Jensen Lasse Lund, LYKKEGAARD Uffe
Принадлежит: Crisplant A/S

The invention relates to a method of handling a variety of objects of different size, shape and weight, where each object is to be transported to a specific destination, where the transportation involves transportation on a conveyor system () and discharge from the conveyor system () to at least one intermediate elongate storage device (-), the method comprising the steps of determining desired position of an object on the intermediate elongate storage device (-) and discharging the object with one of at least two speed levels in the longitudinal direction of the storage device (-) that allows the object to reach the desired position. The invention further relates to a handling system for performing the method as well as a control system for controlling such system. 1. A method of handling a variety of objects of different size , shape and weight , where each object is to be transported to a specific destination , where the transportation involves transportation on a conveyor system and discharge from the conveyor system to at least one intermediate elongate storage device , the method comprising:determining a specific destination for an object on the at least one intermediate elongate storage device; anddischarging the object with one of at least two speed levels in a longitudinal direction of the at least one intermediate elongate storage device that allows the object to reach the specific destination.225-. (canceled)26. The method according to claim 1 , wherein a plurality of objects are transported on a plurality of conveyors from a first area to a second area claim 1 , at which second area the plurality of objects are discharged on or in a storage device or airport wagon claim 1 , the method further comprising:discharging the objects on or in the storage device or airport wagon by a displacement device, a driven conveyor, or a pushing device, anddischarging one or more initial objects on or in the storage device or airport wagon with a first speed, or a first ...

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Номер записи: 30
13-03-2014 дата публикации

MEDIA MOBILITY UNIT (MMU) AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

Номер: US20140074281A1
Автор: Acevedo Jesus R., Ain Jonathan W.
Принадлежит: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION

In one embodiment, a media mobility unit includes a media cartridge holding portion configured to simultaneously store multiple media cartridges, a sensing mechanism for sensing at least an approximate location of the holding portion in relation to other objects, a drive mechanism for moving the holding portion from a source media library to a destination media library, and a power source electrically coupled to at least one of the sensing mechanism and the drive mechanism for providing current to the at least one of the drive mechanism and the sensing mechanism. In another embodiment, a method for transporting a media cartridge includes receiving one or more media cartridges from a source media library, storing the one or more media cartridges in a holding portion of a media mobility unit, sensing at least an approximate location of the media mobility unit, and transporting the one or more media cartridges to a destination media library. Additional embodiments are also presented. 1. A data storage system , comprising:a source media library configured to send a message to a destination media library when a media cartridge from the source media library is sent to the destination media library using a media mobility unit (MMU) comprising a media cartridge holding portion for storing media cartridges,wherein the source media library is configured to receive a message from the destination media library when the destination media library receives the media cartridge sent from the source media library to the destination media library using the MMU.2. The data storage system as recited in claim 1 , further comprising: a drive mechanism for moving the holding portion from the source media library to the destination media library; and', 'a fiducial sensor for aligning the holding portion with a cartridge holder of at least one of the source media library and the destination media library., 'the MMU, wherein the MMU further comprises3. The data storage system as recited in ...

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Номер записи: 31
27-03-2014 дата публикации

CONTROL SYSTEM FOR STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS

Номер: US20140088758A1
Автор: HINSHAW Foster D., Lert John, Peters Eric, Sullivan Robert, Toebes Stephen, Ulrich Nathan
Принадлежит: Symbotic, LLC

A warehouse storage and retrieval system including an array of multilevel storage racks having at least one transfer deck, picking isles and storage areas disposed along picking isles, the storage areas being configured to hold differing loads, and a controller including a management module configured to variably size the storage areas of the array of multilevel storage rack modules and assign each of the variably sized storage areas to a corresponding one of the differing loads, wherein the storage and retrieval system is arranged to transport the differing loads for placement in the variably sized storage areas assigned by the controller. 1. A method for storing loads in a storage and retrieval system having at least one transfer deck , picking aisles and an array of multilevel storage rack modules with variably sized storage areas disposed along the picking aisles , the variably sized storage areas being configured to hold differing loads , the method comprising:providing a controller including a management module configured to variably size the storage areas of the array of multilevel storage rack modules;assigning, with the controller, each of the variably sized storage areas to a corresponding one of the differing loads; andproviding a transport for transporting the differing loads for placement in the variably sized storage areas assigned by the controller.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising varying claim 1 , with the controller claim 1 , a position of the storage areas within the array of multilevel storage rack modules.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising varying claim 1 , with the controller claim 1 , a dimension of each of the variably sized storage areas depending on a dimension of the corresponding one of the differing loads.4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining claim 1 , with the controller claim 1 , storage areas from which loads are to be picked and reserving resources of the storage and retrieval system for ...

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Номер записи: 32
10-04-2014 дата публикации

System for auto-exchanging of electric vehicle battery

Номер: US20140100689A1
Автор: Chi-Man YU
Принадлежит: Industry Academic Cooperation Foundation of Kookmin University, MOTEX PRODUCTS CO Ltd, University Industry Cooperation Foundation of Korea Aerospace University

A system for automatically exchanging a battery of an electric vehicle, the system including a horizontal frame of a predetermined area formed at a location higher than the electric vehicle; a plurality of battery stands formed on a bottom surface of the horizontal frame at a predetermined interval; a pair of fixed guide rails arranged and installed on front and rear sides or left and right sides of the horizontal frame, respectively; a variable guide rail adapted to move horizontally along X-axis or Y-axis along the fixed guide rails; a movable rail adapted to move horizontally along Y-axis or X-axis along the variable guide rail and ascend/descend vertically; and a grasping means installed on a lower end of the movable rail and adapted to pick up a battery of the electric vehicle or a battery seated on the battery stand and exchange each other.

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Номер записи: 33
06-01-2022 дата публикации

AUTOMATED STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM

Номер: US20220002077A1
Автор: Austrheim Trond, Heggebø Jørgen Djuve
Принадлежит: Autostore Technology AS

A remotely operated vehicle assembly for an automated storage and retrieval system moves a product item between a storage container stored in an automated storage and retrieval grid configured to store a plurality of stacks of storage containers, and target containers. The remotely operated vehicle assembly includes a first vehicle including a vehicle body and a wheel arrangement connected to the vehicle body configured to move the remotely operated vehicle along a rail system of the automated storage and retrieval system; and a picking system for moving the product item. The first vehicle includes a container lifting device configured to carry a first target container. The vehicle assembly further includes a second vehicle including a vehicle body and a wheel arrangement connected to the vehicle body configured to move the remotely operated vehicle along a rail system of the automated storage and retrieval system. The second vehicle includes a container lifting device configured to carry a second target container. A bar system mechanically connects the vehicles of the vehicle assembly to each other. The picking system is connected to the bar system. The picking system is configured to move the product item from the storage container to one of the first or second target container. 1. A remotely operated vehicle assembly for an automated storage and retrieval system for moving a product item between a storage container stored in an automated storage and retrieval grid configured to store a plurality of stacks of storage containers , and target containers; wherein the remotely operated vehicle assembly comprises:a first vehicle comprising a vehicle body and a wheel arrangement connected to the vehicle body configured to move the remotely operated vehicle along a rail system of the automated storage and retrieval system;wherein the first vehicle comprises a container lifting device configured to carry a first target container; anda picking system for moving the product ...

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Номер записи: 34
06-01-2022 дата публикации

MOBILE CARRIERS FOR USE IN SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROCESSING OBJECTS INCLUDING MOBILE MATRIX CARRIER SYSTEMS

Номер: US20220002079A1
Автор: AHEARN Kevin, ALLEN Thomas, AMEND, Cohen Benjamin, DAWSON-HAGGERTY Michael, FORT William Hartman, GEYER Christopher, JR. John Richard, KING Jennifer Eileen, KOLETSCHKA Thomas, KOVAL Michael Cap, MARONEY Kyle, MASON Matthew T, MCMAHAN William Chu-Hyon, PRICE Gene Temple, Romano Joseph, SMITH Daniel, SRINIVASA Siddhartha, VELAGAPUDI Prasanna, Wagner Thomas
Принадлежит:

An automated carrier system is disclosed for moving objects to be processed. The automated carrier system includes a base structure of a carrier on which an object may be supported, and at least two wheels mounted to at least two motors to provide at least two wheel assemblies, the at least two wheel assemblies being pivotally supported on the base structure for pivoting movement from a first position to a second position to effect a change in direction of movement of the carrier. 135.-. (canceled)36. An automated carrier system for moving objects to be processed , said automated carrier system comprising:a carrier body with a carrier width along a carrier width direction and a carrier length along a carrier length direction, said carrier body being configured to support a load; anda plurality of wheel assemblies, each wheel assembly including a wheel coupled to a pivot assembly, each pivot assembly providing pivoting of an associated wheel between the carrier width direction and the carrier length direction, wherein the associated wheel is pivoted away from a center of the carrier width and the carrier length.37. The automated carrier system as claimed in claim 36 , wherein each of the plurality of wheel assemblies further includes at least one guide roller.38. The automated carrier system as claimed in claim 37 , wherein each of the plurality of wheel assemblies further includes a pair of guide rollers claim 37 , one on either side of the wheel.39. The automated carrier system as claimed in claim 36 , wherein each of the plurality of wheel assemblies further includes a motor for driving the wheel claim 36 , wherein the motor pivots with the associated wheel assembly.40. The automated carrier system as claimed in claim 36 , wherein at least a portion of each wheel of each of the wheel assemblies extends beyond both the carrier width and the carrier length when pivoted between the carrier width direction and the carrier length direction.41. The automated carrier ...

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Номер записи: 35
06-01-2022 дата публикации

MOBILE CARRIERS FOR USE IN SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROCESSING OBJECTS INCLUDING MOBILE MATRIX CARRIER SYSTEMS

Номер: US20220002080A1
Автор: AHEARN Kevin, ALLEN Thomas, AMEND, Cohen Benjamin, DAWSON-HAGGERTY Michael, FORT William Hartman, GEYER Christopher, JR. John Richard, KING Jennifer Eileen, KOLETSCHKA Thomas, KOVAL Michael Cap, MARONEY Kyle, MASON Matthew T, MCMAHAN William Chu-Hyon, PRICE Gene Temple, Romano Joseph, SMITH Daniel, SRINIVASA Siddhartha, VELAGAPUDI Prasanna, Wagner Thomas
Принадлежит:

An automated carrier system is disclosed for moving objects to be processed. The automated carrier system includes a base structure of a carrier on which an object may be supported, and at least two wheels mounted to at least two motors to provide at least two wheel assemblies, the at least two wheel assemblies being pivotally supported on the base structure for pivoting movement from a first position to a second position to effect a change in direction of movement of the carrier. 122.-. (canceled)23. A method of moving objects to be processed , said method comprising providing a base structure of a carrier on which an object may be supported;providing at least two wheels mounted to at least two motors to provide at least two wheel assemblies; and pivoting each of said wheel assemblies, from a first position to a second position to effect a change in direction of movement of the carrier from a first direction to a second direction that is generally orthogonal to the first direction.24. The method as claimed in claim 23 , wherein said method further includes providing tracks along which the carrier may be moved.25. The method as claimed in claim 24 , wherein said tracks include intermittent tracks that are not mutually connected.26. The method as claimed in claim 25 , wherein said tracks are generally in the shape of a square.27. The method as claimed in claim 25 , wherein said method further includes detecting identifiable indicia associated with an intermittent track section by the carrier.28. The method as claimed in claim 23 , wherein said carrier includes guide rollers for engaging the tracks.29. The method as claimed in claim 23 , wherein said carrier includes a conveyor that may be engaged to move a load in one of two directions off of the carrier.30. The method as claimed in claim 23 , wherein said carrier includes a tilt portion that may be engaged to dump a load off of the carrier.31. The method as claimed in claim 23 , wherein said carrier includes at ...

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Номер записи: 36
06-01-2022 дата публикации

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATED PRODUCT SORTING AND COORDINATED DELIVERY USING AUTONOMOUS DELIVERY VEHICLES WITHIN A FACILITY

Номер: US20220002085A1
Автор: Bellar Jason D., Velten Jeremy L.
Принадлежит:

Systems, methods, and machine readable media are provided for automated product sorting and coordinated delivery using autonomous delivery vehicles within a facility. In exemplary embodiments, a system scans machine readable identifiers affixed to items, and sorts the items into two or more categories. A selected item is identified as scheduled to be picked up in-facility based on the scanning of the machine-readable identifier. An optimal route within the facility from the automated sorting device to an in-facility location is determined for a selected autonomous delivery vehicle based at least in part on at least one of facility traffic patterns, locations of other autonomous delivery vehicles, a number of items to be delivered, and additional tasks that can be performed by the selected autonomous delivery vehicle while delivering the item. The selected autonomous delivery vehicle navigates along the optimal route to the in-facility location to deliver the selected item to the in-facility location. 1. A system for automated product sorting and coordinated delivery using autonomous delivery vehicles within a facility , comprising: scan a plurality of machine-readable identifiers that are each respectively associated with one of a plurality of items; and', 'automatically sort the plurality of items into two or more predetermined product categories, each category associated with one of the plurality of conveyors or sets of rollers, items in each category forwarded to one of the plurality of conveyors or sets of rollers after being scanned based on the association;, 'an automated sorting device that includes at least one of a plurality of conveyors and sets of rollers, the automated sorting device configured toan in-facility location configured for retrieval of one or more items intended for pick up at the facility;one or more autonomous delivery vehicles configured to communicate with the in-facility location via the communication interface; identifying a selected ...

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Номер записи: 37
04-01-2018 дата публикации

AUTONOMOUS TRANSPORT VEHICLE CHARGING SYSTEM

Номер: US20180001778A1
Автор: Sullivan Robert, Vasilyev Dmitry
Принадлежит:

A charging system for autonomous transport vehicles including at least one charging contact disposed on each pick floor level of a storage and retrieval system, each of the at least one charging contact being located at a transfer station, at least one power supply configured to supply power to the at least one charging contact, and a controller in communication with the transfer station and being configured to communicate information relating to a transfer of items between the transfer station and a predetermined one of the autonomous transport vehicles and to apply power from the power supply to the at least one charging contact for charging the predetermined autonomous transport vehicle corresponding to the transfer and located at the transfer station, wherein the controller is configured to supply power to the charging contacts simultaneously with the predetermined autonomous transport vehicle exchanging items related to the transfer at the transfer station. 1. A method comprising:providing at least one autonomous transport vehicle;providing at least one transfer station having an allocated and unallocated state where in the allocated state the at least one transfer station allows transfer of items from and to the at least one autonomous transport vehicle;providing at least one charging station on each of at least one pick floor level of a storage and retrieval system, each of the at least one charging station being located at each respective one of the at least one transfer station and each of the at least one pick floor level including a transfer deck and a picking aisle in communication with the at least one charging station;providing at least one power supply configured to supply power to the at least one charging station;communicating, with a controller in communication with at least one of the at least one charging station and the at least one autonomous transport vehicle, information related to a transfer of items between a predetermined at least one ...

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Номер записи: 38
07-01-2021 дата публикации

HANGING REGISTER STORAGE UNIT FOR A BENDING MACHINE FOR SPACER FRAMES OF INSULATING GLASS PANES

Номер: US20210002073A1
Автор: Schuler Peter
Принадлежит: Bystronic Lenhardt GmbH

A hanging register storage unit for a bending machine for spacer frames of insulating glass panes includes: a plurality of hanging registers which each have a storage site for a stack of unbent spacer profiles; a storage station having a plurality of receiving sites for in each case one of the hanging registers; a removal station having at least one receiving site for one of the hanging registers; and a conveyor device for transporting hanging registers between the receiving sites of the storage station and the receiving site of the removal station. 1. A hanging register storage unit for a bending machine for spacer frames of insulating glass panes , said storage unit comprising:a plurality of hanging registers, each comprising a storage for a stack of unbent spacer profiles;a storage station comprising several receiving places, one for each of the hanging registers;a removal station comprising at least one receiving place for one of the hanging registers; anda conveyor device for transporting hanging registers between at least one of the receiving places of the storage station and the receiving place of the removal station.2. The hanging register storage unit according to claim 1 , comprising a filling station which comprises at least one receiving place for one of the hanging registers.3. The hanging register storage unit according to claim 2 , wherein the filling station is arranged on a side of the storage station that is opposite of the removal station.4. The hanging register storage unit according to claim 1 , wherein the receiving places of the storage station are configured to receive the hanging registers in a suspended position.5. The hanging register storage unit according to claim 1 , wherein the receiving place of the removal station has a contact surface inclined in relation to the vertical in order to retain a hanging register in a position tilted around its longitudinal direction.6. The hanging register storage unit according to claim 1 , wherein the ...

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Номер записи: 39
07-01-2021 дата публикации

Systems and methods for home position and cart acquisition with a materials handling vehicle

Номер: US20210002074A1
Автор: Gregory S. Garmann, Mark E. ADDISON, Matthew J. Otto
Принадлежит: Crown Equipment Corp

A variety of vehicle-based and warehouse-based solutions are provided to increase the adaptability, utility, and efficiency of materials handling vehicles in the warehouse environment, such as a goods storage and retrieval system, comprising a multilevel warehouse racking system, a mobile storage cart, a cart home position, and a materials handling vehicle disposed on a vehicle transit surface and comprising a fork carriage assembly, a navigation subsystem, a cart engagement subsystem, and one or more vehicular controllers to use the navigation subsystem to navigate the materials handling vehicle along the vehicle transit surface to a localized engagement position where the cart home position is within a cart engagement field of view, and use the cart engagement subsystem to engage the mobile storage cart in the cart home position with the fork carriage assembly.

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Номер записи: 40
07-01-2021 дата публикации

STOWING WORKER USER INTERFACE

Номер: US20210002075A1
Автор: HONG Sun Young, Kang KyungTae, KIM Da Young, Kim Ji Eun, LEE Gyoungseok
Принадлежит: Coupang Corp.

The present disclosure provides systems and methods for stowing products, comprising a memory storing instructions and a processor configured to execute the instructions to receive a tote identifier associated with a tote containing at least one product for stowing, predict, based on the tote identifier, a location for stowing the product, and provide a location recommendation for stowing the product based on the predicted location. The processor is configured to receive a product identifier, a location identifier, and a quantity of the product to be stowed. The processor is configured to modify a database to assign the location identifier and the quantity to the product identifier, receive a notification of a stowing error associated with the tote identifier, modify the database to assign the stowing error to the tote identifier, and automatically report the stowing error. 120.-. (canceled)21. A computer-implemented system for stowing products , the system comprising:a memory storing instructions; and receive, from a user mobile device associated with a user, a first identifier associated with at least one product for stowing;', receiving data from the user mobile device in one format or protocol;', 'converting the received data into another format or protocol;', 'determining a location of the user mobile device based on the converted data; and', 'determining at least one empty location within a fulfillment center that is capable of receiving the at least one product;, 'predict, based on the first identifier, a location for stowing the at least one product, wherein predicting the location for stowing the at least one product comprises, 'provide, to the user mobile device, the predicted location;', 'receive, from the user mobile device, a product identifier associated with the at least one product and a location identifier associated with a position in the predicted location;', 'modify a database to assign the location identifier to the product identifier;', ' ...

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Номер записи: 41
07-01-2021 дата публикации

DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR THE AUTOMATED STORAGE AND COMMISSIONING OF GOODS AND METHOD FOR OPERATING SUCH DEVICES AND SYSTEMS

Номер: US20210002079A1
Автор: Mäder Carl Conrad
Принадлежит: WRH WALTER REIST HOLDING AG

A conveying module includes a base structure; a first conveying device to convey a unit of goods in a first conveying direction (x) in the horizontal; a second conveying device to convey a unit of goods in a second conveying direction (y) in the horizontal, wherein the second conveying direction runs substantially perpendicular to the first conveying direction; a carrier structure to carry a unit of goods; a first lifting device to raise and/or lower the first conveying device in the vertical (z) between a lower position and an upper position; and a second lifting device to raise and/or lower the second conveying device in the vertical (z) between a lower position and an upper position; wherein a unit of goods located on the conveying module rests on the carrier structure when the first conveying device and the second conveying device are in the lower position. 160606060. A conveying module ( , ′ , ″ , ′′) for horizontally conveying units of goods , comprising:{'b': '61', 'a basic structure () for storing the conveying module on a base;'}{'b': 63', '63', '69', '32', '111, 'i': a', 'b', 'a, 'a first conveying device (, , ) that is designed to convey a unit of goods (, ) in a first conveying direction (x) in the a horizontal;'}{'b': 65', '65', '69, 'i': a', 'b', 'b, 'a second conveying device (, , ) that is designed to convey a unit of goods in a second conveying direction (y) in the horizontal, wherein the second conveying direction is substantially perpendicular to the first conveying direction;'}{'b': '68', 'a carrier structure () that is designed to carry a unit of goods;'}a first lifting device that is designed to raise and/or lower the first conveying device in a vertical (z) in relation to the carrier structure and/or the second conveying device, between a lower position and an upper position; anda second lifting device that is designed to raise and/or lower the second conveying device in the vertical (z) in relation to the carrier structure and/or the first ...

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Номер записи: 42
02-01-2020 дата публикации

Systems and Methods for Object Storage and Retrieval

Номер: US20200002093A1
Автор: Armstrong Robert Michael, Bellar Jason, Bessel Kurt William Robert, Bryant Boyd Dean, Tovey David G.
Принадлежит:

Described in detail herein is an autonomous object storage and retrieval system. A tray can support one or more physical objects. One or more adjustable members coupled to the tray can transition from a first state to a second state based on the one or more physical objects disposed on the tray. The one or more adjustable members stabilize the one or more physical objects when the one or more adjustable members are in the second state. A transport apparatus can transport the tray with the physical object. The one or more adjustable members are in the second state as the transport apparatus transports the tray between the at least one of the plurality of shelves and the receptacle. 1. An autonomous storage and retrieval system , the system comprising:a tray configured to support one or more physical objects;one or more adjustable members operatively coupled with the tray, the one or more adjustable members configured to transition from a first state to a second state based on the one or more physical objects being disposed on the tray, the one or more physical object being stabilized by the one or more adjustable members when the one or more adjustable members are in the second state;a plurality of shelves, at least one of the plurality of shelves being configured to support the tray;a storage receptacle for receiving the one or more physical objects to be stored by the autonomous storage and retrieval system or for outputting the one or more physical objects from the autonomous storage and retrieval system;a transport apparatus to transport the tray from the receptacle to the at least one of the plurality of shelves to store the tray on the at least one of the plurality of shelves in the autonomous storage and retrieval system or to transport the tray from the at least one of the plurality of shelves in the autonomous storage and retrieval system to the receptacle to output the one or more physical objects,wherein the one or more adjustable members are in the second ...

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Номер записи: 43
02-01-2020 дата публикации

Method and dispensing station for distributing articles

Номер: US20200002094A1
Автор: Harald Johannes SCHROEPF, Michael Johannes SCHEDLBAUER
Принадлежит: TGW Logistics Group GmbH

In a method and arrangement for distributing articles, an order management system acquires an order for delivering articles, the articles to be delivered are transferred from an article store and the articles included in an order are order-picked into at least one mobile shelf unit shelf compartment. The mobile shelf unit is subsequently transported to a dispensing station including a first article storage region separated by a first separating wall and a customer access region and is brought into a handover position, in which the at least one shelf compartment is accessible via a closeable opening in the first separating wall. When an article dispensing system accepts a request for taking over the articles by a person or a machine associated therewith, it releases the closeable opening if authorization exists for taking over the articles. Alternatively a loading robot can load the articles to be delivered into the machine.

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Номер записи: 44
06-01-2022 дата публикации

Robot-based Warehouse Order Picking Method, Apparatus and System, Electronic Device, and Storage Medium

Номер: US20220004975A1
Автор: Wan Qi, YANG Zhiqin
Принадлежит:

Provided are a robot-based electronic commerce warehouse order picking method, apparatus and system, an electronic device, and a storage medium. In the method, a circulation box and a robot are bound by means of acquiring box body identity information of the circulation box including at least one circulation position, wherein a tag and a goods placement mark are correspondingly arranged at the circulation position, and the box body identity information includes information of the tag and information of the goods placement mark; warehouse order information is acquired and the warehouse order information is associated with the box body identity information to obtain order binding information; an interaction terminal of the robot is controlled according to the order binding information to display an interaction interface to instruct a picker to pick goods at a corresponding goods position and place the goods at the circulation position according to the goods placement mark. 1. A robot-based warehouse order picking method performed by a robot system , the method comprising:binding a circulation box and a robot by means of acquiring box body identity information of the circulation box comprising at least one circulation position, wherein a tag and a goods placement mark are correspondingly arranged at the circulation position, and the box body identity information comprises information of the tag and information of the goods placement mark;acquiring warehouse order information and associating the warehouse order information with the box body identity information to obtain order binding information; andcontrolling, according to the order binding information, an interaction terminal of the robot to display an interaction interface to instruct a picker to pick goods at a corresponding goods position and place the goods at the circulation position according to the goods placement mark.2. The method according to claim 1 , wherein controlling claim 1 , according to the order ...

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Номер записи: 45
06-01-2022 дата публикации

Autonomous Mobile Delivery Robot And Chain Of Custody System

Номер: US20220004979A1
Автор: Andres Chamorro, III, Anthony Melanson, Ashley James NYE LEGG, Mark C. Matthews, Ryan LIST, Scott E. Stropkay, Spencer Allen
Принадлежит: ST Engineering Aethon Inc

Disclosed are a system and a method that includes a robotic unit configured to deliver items (e.g., medicine, foodstuff, linens, equipment, etc.) to sites (e.g., rooms, offices, etc.) and/or individuals (e.g., patients, pharmacists, technician, etc.) throughout a facility (e.g., hospital, office building, mailroom, manufacturing facility, etc.). The robotic unit is a mobile unit that operates autonomously to follow predetermined or programmed routes throughout the facility to deliver the items. The system is configured to maintain a chain of custody for the items. In addition, the robotic unit is configured to only allow designated items to be delivered to designated sites and/or to authorized individuals. This can be achieved by the robotic unit having a plurality of containers that are locked within a storage space of the robotic unit, and are only accessible upon successful completion of an authorization process.

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Номер записи: 46
04-01-2018 дата публикации

SHELF SPACE ALLOCATION MANAGEMENT DEVICE AND SHELF SPACE ALLOCATION MANAGEMENT METHOD

Номер: US20180002109A1
Автор: YAMASHITA Nobuyuki
Принадлежит:

A shelf space allocation management device manages products allocated on shelves in a store by use of an imaging device. The shelf space allocation management device acquires an image including a position assumed to be changed in allocation status of each product on each shelf; it determines whether each product reflected in the image matches one of pre-recorded images, thus executing a product allocation inspection. Herein, the shelf space allocation management device specifies a position at which a person causes any change in the allocation status of each product on each shelf, and therefore it may control the imaging device to capture an image including the position. It is possible to carry out a product allocation inspection for each period determined in advance depending on the type of each product, or it is possible to carry out a product allocation inspection being triggered by a customer purchasing each product. 1. A shelf space allocation management device for managing products allocated on a shelf , comprising:an image acquisition part configured to acquire an image including a position assumed to be changed in an allocation status of each product on the shelf;an allocation status determination part configured to determine whether a type and an allocation status of each product reflected in the image match a predetermined type and a predetermined allocation status of each product; andan execution determination part configured to execute a product allocation inspection based on a determination result of the allocation status determination part.2. The shelf space allocation management device according to claim 1 , further comprising a position specifying part configured to specify the position assumed to be changed in the allocation status of each product on the shelf based on the image claim 1 , wherein the image acquisition part captures the image coving a predetermined scope based on the position specified by the position specifying part.3. The shelf ...

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Номер записи: 47
03-01-2019 дата публикации

SHELF SPACE ALLOCATION MANAGEMENT DEVICE AND SHELF SPACE ALLOCATION MANAGEMENT METHOD

Номер: US20190002201A1
Автор: YAMASHITA Nobuyuki
Принадлежит:

A shelf space allocation management device manages products allocated on shelves aligned in a store by use of an image captured by an imaging device. The shelf space allocation management device acquires an image including a position assumed to be changed in allocation status of each product on each shelf, it determines whether the type and the allocation status of each product reflected in the image match the predetermined type and the predetermined allocation status; then, it determines whether to execute a product allocation inspection based on the determination result. Herein, the shelf space allocation management device specifies a position at which a person conducts a behavior to cause any change in the allocation status of each product on each shelf, and therefore it may control the imaging device to capture an image including the position. It is possible to carry out a product allocation inspection for each period determined in advance depending on the type of each product, or it is possible to carry out a product allocation inspection being triggered by a customer purchasing each product. 111-. (canceled)12. A shelf space allocation management device for managing products allocated on a shelf , the shelf space allocation management device comprising:a memory storing instructions; andone or more processors coupled to the memory, wherein the one or more processors are configured to execute the instructions to:acquire a first image taken by a mobile imaging device that moves behind a person under an automatic tracking mode;determine whether a person captured in the first image has performed a predetermined action on the shelf;specify position information of the shelf for a product allocation inspection based on a determination result of an action of the person;change the mode from the automatic tracking mode to a position control mode after specifying the position information of the shelf;move the mobile imaging device to an image-capture position based on ...

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Номер записи: 48
03-01-2019 дата публикации

SYSTEM OF BUFFER STORAGE AND SEQUENCING OF LOADS UPSTREAM TO AT LEAST ONE PREPARING STATION.

Номер: US20190002202A1
Автор: Collin Jean-Michel, Pietrowicz Stephane
Принадлежит:

A system of buffer storage and sequencing of loads is configured to receive non-sequenced loads coming from at least one external unit and to provide sequenced loads to at least one preparing station. The system includes: a reciprocating lift having a single nacelle with K levels each enabling transportation of at least one load with K≥2; at least one buffer storage unit; and a managing unit configured to organize first movements of loads from at least one inbound forward conveyor to the at least one buffer storage unit through the reciprocating lift, and second movements of loads from the at least one buffer storage unit to at least one outbound forward conveyor through the reciprocating lift. 1. A system of buffer storage and sequencing of loads configured to receive non-sequenced loads coming from at least one external unit through at least one inbound forward conveyor included in said system and to provide sequenced loads to at least one preparing station , through at least one outbound forward conveyor included in said system , wherein said system comprises:a reciprocating lift comprising a single nacelle comprising K levels each enabling the transportation of at least one load, with K≥2;at least one buffer storage unit comprising a plurality of buffer locations distributed over a plurality of levels and each configured to temporarily receive at least one load coming from the reciprocating lift; and first movements of loads from said at least one inbound forward conveyor to said at least one buffer storage unit, through the reciprocating lift; and;', 'second movements of loads from said at least one buffer storage unit, to said at least one outbound forward conveyor, through the reciprocating lift, under a constraint of delivery, on said at least one outbound forward conveyor, of at least one sequence comprising loads in a given sequential order., 'a managing unit configured to organize2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein a part of the first movements ...

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Номер записи: 49
03-01-2019 дата публикации

AUTOMATED STORAGE SYSTEM AND ROBOT FOR TRANSPORTING STORAGE BINS

Номер: US20190002255A1
Автор: Hognaland Ingvar
Принадлежит:

The present invention concerns an automated storage system and remotely operated vehicle or robot for picking up storage bins from a storage system. The inventive vehicle or robot comprises a vehicle body, which vehicle body further comprises a first section for storing vehicle driving means and a second section for receiving any storage bin stored in a storage column within the storage system, a vehicle lifting device which is at least indirectly connected to the vehicle body in order to lift the storage bin into the second section, a first set of vehicle rolling means connected to the vehicle body in order to allow movement of the vehicle along a first direction (X) within the storage system during use and a second set of vehicle rolling means connected to the vehicle body in order to allow movement of the vehicle along a second direction (Y) in the storage system during use. The second direction (Y) is oriented perpendicular to the first direction (X). The inventive vehicle is characterized in that the second section comprises a cavity arranged centrally within the vehicle body. This cavity has at least one bin receiving opening facing towards the underlying storage columns during use. In addition, at least one of the two sets of vehicle rolling means is arranged fully within the vehicle body. 1. An automated storage system , comprising i. a plurality of pillars which are positioned with internal distances and in a rectangular arrangement, wherein the rectangular arrangement of the pillars define storage columns for the storage of a plurality of vertically-stacked storage bins,', 'ii. supporting rails arranged in a two-dimensional matrix on top of the pillars, said supporting rails defining rolling tracks arranged in a first direction and a second direction orthogonal to the first direction, the supporting rails further defining openings for the storage columns,, 'a. a three-dimensional storage structure, comprising'} i. a vehicle body,', 'ii. a cavity arranged ...

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Номер записи: 50
01-01-2015 дата публикации

Storage System and Storage Method

Номер: US20150003941A1
Автор: Takahara Masahiro, Ueda Toshihito
Принадлежит:

A storage system comprises a storage structure having storage sections and a carry-in-and-out portion, one or more environment adjusters for adjusting storage environment individually for each of the storage sections, an environment managing portion for collecting information about storage environment and controls operation of the one or more environment adjusters, a storage transport device for performing a transport operation, and a carry-in-and-out managing device for managing the locations of storage sections. 1. A storage system comprising:a storage structure having a plurality of storage sections for storing article holders for transporting articles and a carry-in-and-out portion for carrying in and carrying out the article holders;one or more environment adjusters for adjusting storage environment of the articles held by the article holders in the storage sections, with the adjusting performed individually for each of the storage sections;an environment managing portion for collecting information about the storage environment of the articles in each of the plurality of storage sections, and for controlling operation of the one or more environment adjusters;a storage transport device for performing a carry out transport operation in which the article holder is transported from the storage section to the carry-in-and-out portion, and a carry in transport operation in which the article holder is transported from the carry-in-and-out portion to the storage section;a primary managing device for outputting a carry out request for carrying out the article holder specified by identifying information provided to each of the article holders from the storage structure, and a carry in request for carrying in the article holder specified by the identifying information to the storage structure;a carry-in-and-out managing device for managing locations of the storage sections in which the article holders are stored, by associating the locations of the storage sections in ...

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Номер записи: 51
13-01-2022 дата публикации

Container-Manoeuvring Apparatus

Номер: US20220009710A1
Автор: Clark Sean, Clarke Paul, Ingram-Tedd Andrew John, SHARP David, Thomas Ben, WHELAN Matthew, ZAMMIT Joseph
Принадлежит: Ocado Innovation Limited

There is provided a container maneuvering apparatus arranged to provide an interface between a container-conveying system and a container-storage system. More specifically, there is disclosed a container maneuvering apparatus arranged to load/unload a container into/from a carriage. Optionally, the carriage is a Magway carriage. The carriage can be made stationary before loading/unloading the container by the container-conveying system. The carriage and container can match velocities so that both are moving, but at the same velocity, whilst loading/unloading operations are performed by the container maneuvering apparatus. 125-. (canceled)26. A system comprising:a container-storage system having a first set of parallel rails, or tracks, extending in an X-direction, and a second set of parallel rails, or tracks, extending in a Y-direction transverse to the first set in a substantially horizontal plane to form a grid pattern having a plurality of grid spaces;a framework structure located beneath the rails for a plurality of stacks of containers to be located within the framework structure, and arranged such that each stack will be located within a footprint of a single grid space;a transporting device arranged to selectively move in the X and/or Y directions above the stacks on the rails, and configured to transport a container;one or more carriage tracks located beneath the framework structure; andone or more carriages arranged to move along a carriage track wherein, in use, the transporting device is configured to load/unload a container onto/from a carriage.27. The system according to claim 26 , wherein the transporting device has a footprint that occupies only a single grid space in the storage system claim 26 , such that a transporting device occupying one grid space does not obstruct a transporting device occupying or traversing adjacent grid spaces in the X and/or Y directions.28. The system according to claim 26 , wherein the transporting device is arranged to ...

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Номер записи: 52
13-01-2022 дата публикации

SYSTEMS, METHODS, COMPUTING PLATFORMS, AND STORAGE MEDIA FOR CONTROLLING AN AUTONOMOUS INVENTORY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Номер: US20220009715A1
Автор: Rongley Eric
Принадлежит:

Systems, methods, computing platforms, and storage media for controlling an autonomous inventory management system are disclosed. Exemplary implementations may: direct a first transport system to a first location; determine a respective drop off location for each of the one or more autonomous storage units; determine a boarding order for the one or more autonomous storage units based at least in part on the respective drop off location for each of the one or more autonomous storage units; direct the one or more autonomous storage units to board the first transport system at the first location; and transport the one or more autonomous storage units from the first location to the one or more respective drop off locations. 1. An autonomous inventory management system , the system comprising: 'direct a first transport system to a first location, wherein the first transport system is configured to transport one or more autonomous storage units from the first location, and wherein each of the one or more autonomous storage units comprises:', 'one or more hardware processors configured by machine-readable instructions toa housing,an inventory storage device physically coupled to the housing, and configured to transport at least one inventory item,a power device, wherein the power device is operationally configured to supply power to electrical components of the autonomous storage unit,a drive device in electrical communication with the power device, the drive device operationally configured to physically move the autonomous storage unit in one or more control territories, a navigation device operationally configured to transmit and receive geographic data and determine a physical location of the autonomous storage unit,', 'a sensing device operationally configured to detect physical objects and transmit and receive physical object data, and, 'and one or more ofa control device, wherein the control device is in electronic communication with the power device, the drive ...

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Номер записи: 53
02-01-2020 дата публикации

Systems and methods for transporting containers with a vehicle

Номер: US20200004252A1
Автор: Elias ALJALLIS, Ronald S. Kyslinger, Vikranth GOPALAKRISHNAN
Принадлежит: Walmart Apollo LLC

Among other things, a vehicle for transporting containers is disclosed. The vehicle can include a base, a rack, and at least one container. The base can include a platform, wheels, and a motor for driving one or more of the wheels. The rack can be mounted to the platform. The rack can include at least one rail. The at least one rail can include a channel defined therein and an end coupling for linking the at least one rail with an external rail. The at least one container can be configured to connect with the at least one rail and include a connection assembly. At least a portion of the connection assembly can be moveably disposed in the channel.

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Номер записи: 54
07-01-2016 дата публикации

High density hybrid storage system

Номер: US20160005432A1
Автор: Gary M. McClelland, Robert M. Rees, Steven R. Hetzler
Принадлежит: International Business Machines Corp

A computer-implemented method includes receiving a request for data; determining whether the data is stored in a linear storage media tier and/or in a second storage tier having higher performance than the linear storage media tier. The linear storage media tier includes: reels having linear media thereon, a rest area for storing the reels when not in use, linear media drive(s) configured for reading and/or writing the linear media, and mobile robot(s) for transporting the linear storage media between the rest area and the linear media drive(s). The method also includes instructing the mobile robot to transport one of the reels having the data thereon to one of the linear media drives in the linear storage media tier when the data is stored in the linear storage media tier; receiving the data from the one of the linear media drives; and sending the data.

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Номер записи: 55
07-01-2021 дата публикации

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING DENSE STAGING OF PICKUP ORDERS

Номер: US20210004760A1
Автор: Abohammdan Tawfeek, Clark Stuart W., Durkee Paul E., Shaffer Jason D.
Принадлежит:

Systems, apparatuses, and methods are provided herein for managing pickup order staging. A method comprises triggering a pick task for the pickup order via the task management device, wherein the pick task comprises staging filled totes in a section of a staging area assigned to the due time of the pickup order and densely stacking totes assigned to different orders together to a set height and triggering a breakdown task at the breakdown start time via the task management device, wherein the breakdown task comprises separating totes in the staging area assigned to the due time of the pickup order onto multiple movable platforms based on the order serial numbers on each tote. 1. A system for managing pickup order staging , the system comprises:an order database storing a plurality of pickup orders;an electronic identifier reader;a task management device;a label printer; and determine the number of totes to be used for a pickup order based on items in the pickup order;', 'generate, via the label printer, labels for each tote assigned to the pickup order, each label comprising a tote identifier, an order serial number, and a due time;', 'trigger a pick task for the pickup order via the task management device, wherein the pick task comprises staging filled totes in a section of a staging area assigned to the due time of the pickup order and densely stacking totes assigned to different orders together to a set height;', 'detect for the completion of the pick task based on tote identifiers and product identifiers scanned by the electronic identifier reader;', 'determine a breakdown start time for the pickup order;', 'trigger a breakdown task at the breakdown start time via the task management device, wherein the breakdown task comprises separating totes in the staging area assigned to the due time of the pickup order onto multiple movable platforms based on the order serial numbers on each tote;', 'detect for the completion of the breakdown task based on tote identifiers ...

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Номер записи: 56
02-01-2020 дата публикации

Autonomous Condensing Of Pallets Of Items In A Warehouse

Номер: US20200005202A1
Автор: Christopher Hance, Daniel Shaffer
Принадлежит: X Development LLC

Examples described may enable consolidating pallets of items in a warehouse. An example method includes receiving real-time item information including pallet locations in a warehouse and inventory of items arranged on the pallets; based on the real-time item information, identifying a set of pallets of which at least one pallet includes less than a threshold quantity of a type of item; receiving real-time robotics information and determining, based on the real-time item and robotics information, an amount of time to condense the items on the set of pallets into a single pallet and a quantity of pallets that will become empty as a result of condensing the items; and, based on the amount of time being less than a threshold time and the quantity of pallets exceeding a threshold quantity of pallets, causing robotic devices to condense the items into the single pallet.

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Номер записи: 57
02-01-2020 дата публикации

SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF STORING AND RETRIEVING RETAIL STORE PRODUCT INVENTORY

Номер: US20200005229A1
Автор: Durkee Paul E., Roth Brian C.
Принадлежит:

Apparatuses and methods are provided herein useful in retail store inventory storage and retrieval. Some embodiments provide systems, comprising: a rack system positioned above a dropdown ceiling and extending over the sales floor, and comprising: a plurality of racks, a rail system and the plurality of access passages; a plurality of unmanned vehicles; a plurality of access stations, wherein the access stations physically cooperate with one of the access passages; each rack comprises storage cells to receive a reusable tote; and wherein the central control circuit is configured to receive a request for a first product, identify a first access station, access the inventory tracking system to identify a first storage cell in which the first product is stored, identify an available unmanned vehicle, and communicate to the unmanned vehicle directing the unmanned vehicle to retrieve the tote and transport the tote to the first access station. 1. A retail store inventory storage and retrieval system , comprising:a rack system positioned above a dropdown ceiling of a retail store and extending over at least a majority of a sales floor comprising product support devices supporting products offered for sale and separated by aisles along which customers move in order to locate and select desired products for purchase from the retail store, wherein the rack system comprises: a plurality of racks, a rail system and the plurality of access passages;a retail store inventory central control circuit;an inventory tracking system communicatively coupled with the central control circuit;a plurality of unmanned vehicles in wireless communication with the central control circuit, wherein each of the unmanned vehicles comprises a vehicle control circuit, at least one motor controlled by the vehicle control circuit, a propulsion system operatively coupled with the at least one motor and configured to induce movement of the unmanned vehicle in response to being driven by the motor, and a ...

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Номер записи: 58
20-01-2022 дата публикации

Inventory Management Loadout System

Номер: US20220019969A1
Автор: Todd Eric Thane
Принадлежит:

An inventory management loadout system is a system that expedites the delivery of products in a warehouse or distribution center by simplifying the loading process. The system may include a support platform, a support wheel, a wheel frame, a plurality of tubular shelves, an inbound conveyor system, and an outbound conveyor system. The support platform supports the operation of the system. The support wheel enables the temporary storing of the products so that the products are ready to be loaded onto the corresponding truck. The wheel frame supports the load from the support wheel and enables the rotation of the support wheel. The plurality of tubular shelves facilitates the vertical storage of the products to prevent bottlenecking. The inbound conveyor system enables the loading of the products to the plurality of tubular shelves. The outbound conveyor system facilitates the unloading of the products from the plurality of tubular shelves. 1. An inventory management loadout system comprising:a support platform;a support wheel;a wheel frame;a plurality of tubular shelves;an inbound conveyor system;an outbound conveyor system;the support platform comprising a first platform face and a second platform face;the support wheel being rotatably mounted onto the first platform face by the wheel frame;a wheel rotation axis of the support wheel being positioned parallel to the support platform;the plurality of tubular shelves being radially distributed about the support wheel;a sleeve central axis of each of the plurality of tubular shelves being positioned perpendicular to the wheel rotation axis;the sleeve central axis of the each of the plurality of tubular shelves being positioned parallel to the support platform;the inbound conveyor system and the outbound conveyor system being mounted onto the first platform face; and,the inbound conveyor system, the support wheel, and the outbound conveyor system being serially positioned to each other.2. The inventory management loadout ...

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Номер записи: 59
11-01-2018 дата публикации

MULTILEVEL MOBILE GUTTER SYSTEM FOR GROWING INDOOR VEGETATION

Номер: US20180007850A1
Автор: Dufresne Stephen A., Van Geest Isaac
Принадлежит:

A multilevel indoor mobile gutter system for growing vegetation including at least a first level and a second level is provided. Each level may include a first level conveyor and a second level conveyor respectively. A transfer conveyor is operable to convey from the first level to the second level. A plurality of lights are positioned to emit light towards the first level and the second level. At least one gutter is operable to support a plant within. The first level conveyor transports the at least one gutter from the front end to the rear end of the first level, the transfer conveyor transfers the at least one gutter from rear end of the first level to the front end of the second level, and the second level conveyor transports the at least one gutter from the front end to the rear end of the second level. 1. A multilevel system for growing vegetation comprising:a first level comprising a front end, a rear end, a first side and a second side, and a first level conveyor;a second level comprising a front end, a rear end, a first side and a second side, and a second level conveyor;a transfer conveyor;a plurality of lights positioned to emit light towards the first level and the second level; andat least one gutter operable to support a plant within, whereinthe first level conveyor transports the at least one gutter from the front end to the rear end of the first level,the transfer conveyor transfers the at least one gutter from the rear end of the first level to the front end of the second level, andthe second level conveyor transports the at least one gutter from the front end to the rear end of the second level.2. The multilevel system of claim 1 , wherein the first level and the second level are disposed side by side one another and the transfer conveyor comprises a conveyor belt.3. The multilevel system of claim 1 , wherein the first level and the second level are disposed above and below one another and the transport conveyor comprises a lift.4. The multilevel ...

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Номер записи: 60
12-01-2017 дата публикации

AUTOMATED KEY DUPLICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD

Номер: US20170008096A1
Автор: Basham Scott, Booth Kenneth C., Hagen George Lynn, Hamblin Ryan, Ito Carl, Mueller Michael A., Tarter Mark
Принадлежит:

An automated key duplication system that includes a system housing, a key identification system, a key cutting system, a key blank storage system, a key blank transfer assembly, and a duplicated key retrieval opening is disclosed. The key identification system may be housed at least partially within the system housing and is configured to identify a master key. The key blank storage system comprises a plurality of rods configured to removably couple to a plurality of key carriers. The key blank transfer assembly is housed within the housing is configured to remove one key carrier of the plurality of key carriers from the key blank storage system with the key retrieving apparatus and transport the one key carrier and the key blank coupled thereto from the key blank storage to the key cutting system. The duplicated key retrieval opening is positioned on the housing to receive the one key blank after the one key blank has been cut. 111-. (canceled)12. An automated key duplication system , comprising:a system housing;a key identification system housed at least partially within the system housing and configured to identify a master key;a key cutting system housed within the system housing;a key blank storage system housed within the system housing and comprising a plurality of rods configured to couple to a plurality of key blanks;a key blank transfer assembly housed within the system housing and comprising a key retrieving apparatus, the key retrieving apparatus movable along a vertical axis and a horizontal axis to align with one key blank of the plurality of key blanks and configured to remove the one key blank from the key blank storage system and transport the one key blank coupled thereto from the key blank storage system to the key cutting system when the plurality of key blanks are individually coupled to the plurality of rods; anda duplicated key retrieval opening positioned on the system housing to receive the one key blank after the one key blank has been cut. ...

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Номер записи: 61
12-01-2017 дата публикации

APPARATUS FOR POSITIONING AN AUTOMATED LIFTING STORAGE CART AND RELATED METHODS

Номер: US20170008701A1
Автор: Brumm Christopher, Mitchell Pat, Ramankutty Mohan, Terrill Mike, Tipton Rodney
Принадлежит: Swisslog Logistics, Inc.

A system for positioning a lifting cart in an automated storage facility is described. In one example, the system includes a motorized lifting cart configured to move about a railway of a storage area. An encoder on the cart reads a property of rotation of a rotating element on the cart, and a controller may receive the property of rotation from the encoder and convert it to a rotation count of the rotating element. The rotating element may be an encoder shaft, drive shaft, and like elements. Some systems include a signal emitter or photo sensor to position the lifting cart and to facilitate providing instructions to the cart. 1. A system for positioning a cart in an automated storage facility , the system comprising: a motor,', 'wheels positioned on the cart to engage a railway, at least one of the wheels driven by the motor to propel the cart in the railway,', 'an encoder reading a property of rotation of a rotating element of the cart, the rotating element rotating along with motion of the cart in the railway;, 'a cart comprising receive the property of rotation of the rotating element from the encoder,', 'convert the property of rotation into a rotation count of the rotating element., 'a controller configured to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the controller determines a distance traveled by the cart based on the rotation count.3. The system of claim 2 , further comprising:a calibration surface positioned along the railway;a sensor positioned on the cart and operable to sense the calibration surface as the cart traverses the railway; sense the calibration surface using the sensor,', 'determine a position of the calibration surface sensed,', 'direct movement of the cart at least partially based on a difference between the position of the calibration surface and the distance traveled by the cart based on the rotation count., 'the controller further configured to4. The system of claim 2 , wherein movement of the cart is directed at least partially based on the ...

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Номер записи: 62
14-01-2016 дата публикации

LIFT CONFIGURATION FOR CARRIAGE-BASED WAREHOUSE

Номер: US20160009492A1
Автор: Stevens Criston S.
Принадлежит:

An automated warehouse system and method of storing articles to and retrieving articles from an automated warehouse system includes at least two stacked longitudinally extending racks that are laterally separated by an aisle, each of said racks having a plurality of levels, with storage locations on each of the levels. An automated carriage at each of said levels travels longitudinally along the associated aisle and is adapted to store articles to and retrieve articles from each of the racks at that level. A lift arrangement for delivering articles to and retrieving articles from the levels of the stacked racks includes more than one lift assembly for at least one of the racks. 1. An automated warehouse system , comprising:at least two stacked longitudinally extending racks that are laterally separated by an aisle, each of said racks having a plurality of levels, with storage locations on each of said levels;an automated carriage at each of said levels; said automated carriage longitudinally travelling along the associated aisle and adapted to store articles to and retrieve articles from each of the racks at that level; anda lift arrangement for delivering articles to and retrieving articles from the levels of said stacked racks, wherein said lift arrangement comprises more than one lift assembly for at least one of said racks.2. The system as claimed in wherein said lift arrangement comprises at least two lift assemblies for at least one of said racks.3. The system as claimed in wherein said lift arrangement comprises at least two lift assemblies for each of said racks.4. The system as claimed in wherein said carriage is capable of storing articles to and retrieving articles from at least two separate rows of articles in at least one of said racks claim 1 , each of said rows at a different distance from said aisle claim 1 , and wherein at least two lift assemblies are laterally aligned with the at least two rows.5. The system as claimed in including a pass-through ...

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Номер записи: 63
14-01-2016 дата публикации

PICKING STATION WITH AUTOMATED WAREHOUSE

Номер: US20160009493A1
Автор: Schubilske Martin E., Stevens Criston S.
Принадлежит:

A method of filling orders and order fulfillment system includes storing inventory receptacles in an automated warehouse, some having a plurality of different types of inventory items. A queue of orders is maintained in a computer system, each including at least one inventory item. Each order is selected from the queue and assigned to a pick station. The computer system retrieves inventory receptacle(s) from the automated warehouse for the selected order and supplies the receptacle(s) to the pick station. The computer system identifies to an operator which inventory item is to be segregated with the selected order in at least one put receptacle. One or more of the put receptacles receives inventory items for at least one individual order and is directed to a secondary order processing station where items are separated into individual orders. The operator may be provided the capability to consolidate inventory items from inventory receptacles while picking orders to consolidate partially filled inventory receptacles in a consolidated inventory receptacle. 1. A method of filing orders , comprising:storing a plurality of inventory receptacles in an automated warehouse, at least some of said inventory receptacles having a plurality of different types of inventory items in that inventory receptacle;maintaining a queue of orders to be filled in a computer system, each of said orders including at least one inventory item, each of the orders comprising an individual order or group of individual orders;selecting at least one order from the queue with the computer system and assigning that at least one order to a pick station;said computer system retrieving at least one inventory receptacle from said automated warehouse having at least one inventory item for the selected order and supplying the at least one receptacle to the pick station; andsaid computer system identifying to an operator which inventory item in the retrieved inventory receptacle or receptacles is to be ...

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Номер записи: 64
14-01-2016 дата публикации

Apparatus and methods for automated dispension of medications and supplements

Номер: US20160009494A1
Автор: Kimberly Hawkes, Paul J. Siebert, Richard A. Elliott, Richard W. SNODGRASS, Roger J. Gerdeman, Steven E. Schneider, Thomas P. Hayes, Wyatt Culbertson
Принадлежит: Remedi Technology Holdings LLC

A system for assembling and dispensing an order made up of one or more individually packaged items from a plurality of different individually packaged items includes a storage module containing one or more packages of each of the items, and a conveyor having selectively assignable spaces configured to receive the packaged items associated with a particular order and to transport the packaged items to a processing location. A pick device is movable relative to the storage module and is configured to retrieve a package from the storage module. A transfer station adjacent the conveyor receives one or more of the packaged items from the pick device and an actuator associated with the transfer station moves the packaged items from the transfer station to the conveyor when the assigned space associated with the order is in the registration with the transfer station.

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Номер записи: 65
27-01-2022 дата публикации

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING THE MATERIAL FLOW OF OBJECTS IN A CONVEYOR SYSTEM OF A REAL WAREHOUSE

Номер: US20220024696A1
Автор: Meurer Hans Christoph
Принадлежит:

A method for controlling the material flow of goods to be conveyed in a conveyor system of a real warehouse by a virtual three-dimensional model, for which purpose the conveyor system of the real warehouse is virtualized in a central computer, for which purpose a virtual three-dimensional model of the real conveyor system having the dimensions of the individual conveyor components and the movement parameters thereof, including the actuator properties and the identity, shape and position of the goods to be conveyed, is stored, and the conveyor system of the real warehouse is centrally controlled from the virtual model, images of the goods to be conveyed in the real conveyor system are cyclically captured by sensors, and the virtual model is cyclically compared with the reality on the basis of the recorded images. 1. A method for controlling the material flow of goods being conveyed in a conveyance technique of a real warehouse by means of a virtual three-dimensional model , said method comprising:virtualizing the conveyance technique of the real warehouse in a central computer wherein a virtual three-dimensional model of the real conveyance technique with the dimensions of the individual conveyance technique component, its movement parameters and actuator properties and the identity, form and position of the goods being conveyed is stored;controlling the conveyance technique of the real warehouse centrally from the virtual model;cyclically capturing images of the goods being conveyed in the real conveyance technique sensors; andcyclically adjusting the virtual model to reality on the basis of the images taken.2. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the objects are identified from the captured images in the central computer by image recognition claim 1 , and wherein their form is translated into a three-dimensional model and their position at the point in time of image capture in the real conveyance technique is determined and the virtual model is adjusted ...

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Номер записи: 66
27-01-2022 дата публикации

MATERIAL HANDLING METHOD AND DEVICE, SERVER, AND HANDLING ROBOT

Номер: US20220024737A1
Автор: Ai Xin, CHEN YEGUANG, ZHOU SHAOKAI
Принадлежит:

The present disclosure provides a material handling method and device, a server and a handling robot. The material handling method provided by the present embodiment includes: acquiring position information and idle storage unit information of a robot; and allocating a second handling task to the robot according to the position information, the idle storage unit information and a position of a first target included in a first handling task; where one of the first handling task and the second handling task is a material fetching task, and the other is a returning task. Thus, a handling strategy can be set flexibly, and fetching materials while returning is implemented during a material handling process, the handling efficiency of the materials is improved effectively. 1. A material handling method , comprising:acquiring position information and idle storage unit information of a robot; andallocating a second handling task to the robot according to the position information, the idle storage unit information and a position of a first target comprised in a first handling task; wherein the first handling task is a material fetching task, and the second handling task is a returning task;when a return position in the second handling task is a position of an idle storage site, the allocating the second handling task to the robot comprises:generating a material fetching path according to the position information and a position of the first target comprised in the first handling task; and determining positions corresponding to U idle storage sites whose distances from the material fetching path are within a first preset range as return positions of a second target; wherein U is a natural number greater than 0; and/ordetermining, according to the position information, positions corresponding to U idle storage sites whose distances from the robot are within a second preset range as return positions of the second target; wherein U is a natural number greater than 0.2. The method ...

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Номер записи: 67
11-01-2018 дата публикации

SYSTEM AND METHOD OF SEQUENCING FOR AT LEAST ONE PREPARING STATION

Номер: US20180009605A1
Автор: Collin Jean-Michel, Pietrowicz Stephane
Принадлежит:

A system for sequencing a preparing station that sequences loads coming from an external unit via an entering outbound conveyor. The system includes a paternoster, a buffer location and a managing unit, which processes each load that comes to an entrance of the paternoster according to one of the following modes (selected as a function of a place desired for the load in a sequence): (a) after introduction into the paternoster, the load undergoes a bypass transfer between two nacelles positioned face to face and then presented to an exiting outbound conveyor; (b) after introduction into the paternoster, the load undergoes a buffer transfer towards a given buffer location and then subsequently re-positioned again in the paternoster and finally presented to the exiting outbound conveyor; (c) after introduction into the paternoster, the load is transported therein without bypass transfer or buffer transfer and then presented to the exiting outbound conveyor. 1. A system of sequencing for at least one preparing station , configured to sequence loads coming from at least one external unit via at least one entering outbound conveyor and to provide said at least preparing station , via at least one exiting outbound conveyor , with at least one sequence comprising loads in a desired sequential order , wherein the system comprises:a managed elevator with nacelles circulating in a closed loop, called a paternoster, each nacelle enabling the transportation of at least one load and being equipped with a device for transferring loads on to or out of said nacelle;at least one buffer location, configured to temporarily receive at least one load coming from the paternoster; and (a) after introduction into the paternoster, the load undergoes a bypass transfer between two nacelles positioned face to face, by implementation of the load transfer devices of the two nacelles, and is then presented to said at least one exiting outbound conveyor;', '(b) after introduction into the ...

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Номер записи: 68
14-01-2021 дата публикации

SYSTEM OF BUFFER STORAGE AND SEQUENCING OF ITEMS COMPRISING TWO ELEVATORS

Номер: US20210009348A1
Автор: Collin Jean-Michel, Pietrowicz Stephane
Принадлежит:

A system of buffer storage and load sequencing is proposed, receiving non-sequenced loads, and providing sequenced loads. The system comprises a buffer storage unit (US) comprising N entrance levels (VEto VE) comprising a FIFO type conveyor, with N≥2; entering (EAE) and exiting (EAS) reciprocating elevators positioned respectively at the entrance and exit of the N entrance levels; and one managing unit (UP) configured to organize, under a constraint of delivering on said at least one exiting forward conveyor (CAS) at least one sequence of loads, different movements of loads (from at least one entering forward conveyor (CAE) to the entering reciprocating elevator, from the entering reciprocating elevator to the N entrance levels, from the N entrance levels to the exiting reciprocating elevator and from the exiting reciprocating elevator to the at least one exiting forward conveyor). 1. System of buffer storage and load sequencing , configured to receive non-sequenced loads coming from at least one external unit through at least one entering forward conveyor (CAE , CAE′) , and to provide sequenced loads to at least one preparing station (PP , PP′) through at least one exiting forward conveyor (CAS , CAS′) , said system being characterized in that it comprises:{'sub': 1', 'N, 'a buffer storage unit (US) comprising N entrance levels (VEto VE) disposed vertically, each of the N entrance levels comprising a “first-in first-out” type conveyor in a first direction and having a single entrance and a single exit, with N≥2;'}an entering reciprocating elevator (EAE) and an exiting reciprocating elevator (EAS) of a discontinuous type, positioned respectively so as to be facing the single entrances and facing the single exits of the N entrance levels; anda management unit (UP) configured to organize, under a constraint of delivering on said at least one exiting forward conveyor at least one sequence comprising loads in a desired sequential order: first movements of loads from ...

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Номер записи: 69
14-01-2021 дата публикации

ROBOT SYSTEM WITH MOTION SEQUENCES ADAPTED TO PRODUCT TYPES, AND OPERATING METHOD THEREFOR

Номер: US20210009351A1
Автор: BEINHOFER Maximilian, SCHROEPF Harald
Принадлежит: TGW Logistics Group GmbH

A robot system () is specified, which comprises a robot () having a gripping unit () for collecting and placing down/throwing goods (), wherein the goods () are differentiated into multiple types with respect to their dimensional stability, compressive stability, flexural rigidity, strength, their absolute weight and/or specific weight. When the goods () are manipulated, the robot () and/or the gripping unit () are controlled depending on the type determined for the goods (). Moreover, a method for operating the robot system () is specified. 111161143262699910192499102020254ababagaceabdbab. A method for controlling a robot ( , ) in a storage and order-picking system () , said robot ( , ) comprising a gripping unit () movable in relation to a robot base () , in which the goods (. . . ) are collected from or out of a first goods carrier ( , , , , , ) and are placed down or thrown in/into or on/onto a second goods carrier ( , , , , , ) by means of the gripping unit () ,wherein:{'b': 26', '26', '26', '26', '26', '26, 'i': a', 'g', 'a', 'g', 'a', 'g, 'goods (. . . ) are differentiated by one or a combination of the physical parameters: dimensional stability, compressive stability, flexural rigidity, strength, absolute weight and/or specific weight at least into goods (. . . ) of a first type and goods (. . . ) of a second type,'}{'b': 26', '26', '26', '26, 'i': a', 'g', 'a', 'g, 'prior to collecting a good (. . . ), the type of good (. . . ) is determined,'}{'b': 26', '26', '9', '9', '9', '10', '19', '24', '9', '9', '10', '20', '20', '25', '4', '4', '26', '26, 'i': a', 'g', 'a', 'c', 'e', 'a', 'b', 'd', 'b', 'a', 'b', 'a', 'g, 'the good (. . . ) is collected from or out of the first goods carrier (, , , , , ) and is placed down or thrown in/into or on/onto the second goods carrier (, , , , , ) by means of the gripping unit (), wherein the robot and/or the gripping unit () is controlled depending on the type determined for the good (. . . ),'}{'b': 26', '26', '9', '9', ' ...

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Номер записи: 70
14-01-2021 дата публикации

Hybrid Modular Storage Fetching System

Номер: US20210009352A1
Автор: Amador Paolo Gerli, Bhaskaran Michael, Gallaway Rodney, Gopalakrishnan Vikranth, Jarvis Daniel, Kalra Amit
Принадлежит:

A hybrid modular storage fetching system is described. In an example implementation, an automated guided vehicle of the hybrid modular storage fetching system includes a drive unit that provides motive force to propel the automated guided vehicle within an operating environment. The automated guided vehicle may also include a container handling mechanism including an extender and a carrying surface, the container handling mechanism having three or more degrees of freedom to move the carrying surface along three or more axes. The container handling mechanism may retrieve an item from a first target shelving unit using the carrying surface and the three or more degrees of freedom and place the item on a second target shelving unit. The automated guided vehicle may also include a power source coupled to provide power to the drive unit and the container handling mechanism. 1. An item handling and storage mechanism for an automated guided vehicle (AGV) , comprising:an item storage rack mountable to a frame of the AGV, the item storage rack including a plurality of shelves, each shelf of the plurality of shelves capable of storing an item;an extender mountable at a proximal end to the frame of an AGV proximate to the item storage rack, the extender having three or more degrees of freedom; anda carrying surface connected at a distal end of the extender, the carrying surface being movable by the extender vertically parallel relative to a face of the item storage rack, perpendicularly relative to the face of the item storage rack, and horizontally parallel relative to the face of the item storage rack, the carrying surface being extendable by the extender using the three or more degrees of freedom to retrieve a certain item from a separate shelving unit located within reaching distance of the extender and retractable using the three or more degrees of freedom to place the certain item on one of the shelves of the item storage rack.218. The item handling and storage mechanism ...

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Номер записи: 71
10-01-2019 дата публикации

SYSTEM FOR CONVEYING AND STOWING ELONGATED MATERIAL

Номер: US20190009838A1
Автор: PRUPES SHAI ALEXANDER, ROSENFELD YEHIEL
Принадлежит:

A rack corresponding a vehicle having matching connectors: a plurality of modular shelves having two longitudinal sides, the modular shelves are configured to be mounted one on top of the other, wherein each modular shelf of the plurality of modular shelves comprising: a frame having a plurality of struts configured for mounting a modular shelf one on top of the other, and wherein at least a portion of the struts have bottom with fittings that comply with the matching connectors a guardrail on each longitudinal side of the frame wherein at least one of the guardrails is capable of moving between an upright position and a horizontal position. a drawer capable of moving on top of the frame through at least one of the longitudinal sides of the modular shelf. 1. A rack corresponding to a vehicle having matching connectors , comprising:a frame comprising fittings complying with the matching connectors;a plurality of modular shelves configured to be mounted one on top of the other and on the frame, wherein each modular shelf of the plurality of modular shelves comprises a wall that is vertical with respect to the frame, wherein the wall has two sides, and wherein each side comprises:a plurality of arms configured to be simultaneously extracted and retracted; and wherein the arms are capable of moving along the wall.2. The rack of claim 1 , wherein the matching connectors are twist locks and wherein the fittings are configured to engage with the twist locks for connecting the rack to the vehicle.3. The rack of claim 1 , wherein a top side of the wall comprises a plurality of pins and a bottom side of the wall comprises a plurality of matching bores claim 1 , so that when the shelves are mounted one on top of the other claim 1 , the pins and bores are engaged.4. The rack of claim 1 , wherein the frame further comprises a plurality of pins along its longitudinal axis so that when a shelf of the plurality of shelves is mounted on top of the frame claim 1 , the pins and bores ...

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Номер записи: 72
10-01-2019 дата публикации

A storage system for storing and transporting bins

Номер: US20190009984A1
Автор: Ingvar Hognaland, Ivar Fjeldheim, Øystein GJERDEVIK, Trond Austrheim
Принадлежит: Autostore Technology AS

Method and systems for storing and transporting a plurality of storage bins to and from an upper and a lower location of a three dimensional storage grid, which is constructed by columns interconnected by top rails. The system includes a movable continuous chain running from the upper location to the lower location of said storage grid. The chain may have compartments fitted for holding the bins. Robot vehicles are running on the upper location of the storage grid. These are adapted for loading and unloading bins 4 from the compartments in the chain. A control system is configured for controlling loading and unloading of the bins from the compartments in the chain.

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Номер записи: 73
10-01-2019 дата публикации

STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM

Номер: US20190009985A1
Автор: Fosnight William J., JR. John G., Lert
Принадлежит: ALERT INNOVATION INC.

A system and method for storage and retrieval are provided. The system includes a multi-level storage structure, and mobile robots configured to pick, transport and place one or more tote, container, or object. This system and method can be used in order-fulfillment applications in which one or more workstations accommodate a picker that transports one or more eaches from a tote on one of the autonomous mobile robots to a put location, and an input/output interface induct material into the system and discharge fulfilled orders from the system. The mobile robots are further configured to move from level to level in the multi-level storage structure via inclined or vertical tracks without requiring a vertical lift or vertical conveyor. 1. An order fulfillment system , comprising:a plurality of inventory storage locations configured to store containers having inventory;an inventory interface including a portal configured to perform at least one of presenting inventory for removal from the order fulfillment system and receiving inventory for input into the order fulfillment system; andone or more mobile robots for transferring the containers around the order fulfillment system, including to the plurality of inventory storage locations and to the inventory interface.2. The order fulfillment system of claim 1 , further comprising a system of horizontal and vertical tracks claim 1 , interconnected between the plurality of inventory storage locations and the inventory interface claim 1 , on which the mobile robots travel horizontally and vertically.3. The order fulfillment system of claim 1 , wherein the portal is horizontally oriented claim 1 , the inventory interface comprising an inventory storage location claim 1 , adjacent and beneath the portal claim 1 , for receiving a container.4. The order fulfillment system of claim 1 , wherein the portal comprises an access panel preventing access to the inventory interface when in a closed position and allowing access to the ...

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Номер записи: 74
10-01-2019 дата публикации

SHELF SPACE ALLOCATION MANAGEMENT DEVICE AND SHELF SPACE ALLOCATION MANAGEMENT METHOD

Номер: US20190009986A1
Автор: YAMASHITA Nobuyuki
Принадлежит:

A shelf space allocation management device manages products allocated on shelves aligned in a store by use of an image captured by an imaging device. The shelf space allocation management device acquires an image including a position assumed to be changed in allocation status of each product on each shelf; it determines whether the type and the allocation status of each product reflected in the image match the predetermined type and the predetermined allocation status; then, it determines whether to execute a product allocation inspection based on the determination result. Herein, the shelf space allocation management device specifies a position at which a person conducts a behavior to cause any change in the allocation status of each product on each shelf, and therefore it may control the imaging device to capture an image including the position. It is possible to carry out a product allocation inspection for each period determined in advance depending on the type of each product, or it is possible to carry out a product allocation inspection being triggered by a customer purchasing each product. 111-. (canceled)12. A shelf space allocation management device for managing products allocated on a shelf , the shelf space allocation management device comprising:a memory storing instructions; andone or more processors coupled to the memory, wherein the one or more processors are configured to execute the instructions to:acquire a first image of a plurality of products on the shelf;specify, as a first position, a position assumed to be changed in an allocation status of the plurality of products in the first image;acquire a second image covering a predetermined region based on the first position;determine whether a type and an allocation status of the plurality of products reflected in the second image match a predetermined type and a predetermined allocation status of the plurality of products, respectively; andexecute a product allocation inspection based on a ...

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Номер записи: 75
10-01-2019 дата публикации

SHELF SPACE ALLOCATION MANAGEMENT DEVICE AND SHELF SPACE ALLOCATION MANAGEMENT METHOD

Номер: US20190009987A1
Автор: YAMASHITA Nobuyuki
Принадлежит:

A shelf space allocation management device manages products allocated on shelves aligned in a store by use of an image captured by an imaging device. The shelf space allocation management device acquires an image including a position assumed to be changed in allocation status of each product on each shelf; it determines whether the type and the allocation status of each product reflected in the image match the predetermined type and the predetermined allocation status; then, it determines whether to execute a product allocation inspection based on the determination result. Herein, the shelf space allocation management device specifies a position at which a person conducts a behavior to cause any change in the allocation status of each product on each shelf, and therefore it may control the imaging device to capture an image including the position. It is possible to carry out a product allocation inspection for each period determined in advance depending on the type of each product, or it is possible to carry out a product allocation inspection being triggered by a customer purchasing each product. 111-. (canceled)12. A shelf space allocation management device for managing products allocated on a shelf , the shelf space allocation management device comprising:a memory storing instructions; andone or more processors coupled to the memory, wherein the one or more processors are configured to execute the instructions to:acquire a first image taken by a surveillance imaging device;determine whether a person reflected in the first image has performed a predetermined action on the shelf;specify position information of the shelf for a product allocation inspection based on a determination result of an action of the person;move a mobile imaging device to an image-capture position based on the specified position information;adjust a direction of the mobile imaging device upon determining that the mobile imaging device reaches the image-capture position;control the mobile ...

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Номер записи: 76
08-01-2015 дата публикации

Buffer station for stocker system

Номер: US20150012128A1
Автор: Rebstock Lutz
Принадлежит:

A buffer station provides potential improvement for the operation of a facility. By storing to-be accessed workpieces in the buffer stations of an equipment, the operation of the facility is not interrupted when the equipment is down. The workpieces can be retrieved through emergency access port of the buffer station, thus ensure the continuous supply of workpieces for the workpiece flow of the facility. Algorithm for getting the needed workpieces to the buffer station is also provided through a controller or a computer mechanism. The buffer station can be incorporated in a stocker, such as wafer stocked or reticle stocker. 1. A method to provide continuous operation so facility , the method comprising:Storing a plurality of workpieces in a buffer station, wherein the buffer station is separate from a storage chamber, andWherein the buffer station comprises an access for accessing the plurality of workpieces without exposing the plurality of workpieces in the storage chamber.2. A method as in claim 1 , further comprising:Determining another plurality of workpieces needed to be processed in a next predetermined period.3. A method as in claim 2 , further comprising:Wherein the next predetermined period is an average time needed to repair the equipment.4. A method as in claim 2 , further comprising:Wherein the next predetermined period is a next 24 hours.5. A method as in claim 1 , further comprising:Wherein the accessing is performed by an operator outside a stocker of the facility.6. A method as in claim 1 , further comprising:Wherein the buffer station is an IO station comprising the access.7. A method as in claim 1 , further comprising:Wherein the plurality of workpieces is stored in a plurality of containers.8. A method to provide continuous operations of a facility claim 1 , the method comprising:retrieving a plurality of workpieces that is queued to be processed;storing the retrieved plurality of workpieces in a buffer station, wherein the buffer station is ...

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Номер записи: 77
09-01-2020 дата публикации

STOCKER AND STOCKING SYSTEM

Номер: US20200010272A1
Автор: WANG Tiaohong
Принадлежит:

This application discloses a stocker and a stocking system. The stocker includes: a storage cabinet; a shelf, arranged inside the storage cabinet, where at least one charging module is arranged on the shelf; a first cassette, arranged on the shelf and capable of moving relative to the shelf; a monitoring apparatus, arranged inside the first cassette and configured to monitor cleanliness of air in the storage cabinet; and a battery apparatus, arranged inside the first cassette and configured to supply power to the monitoring apparatus, where the battery apparatus includes a battery and a charging receiver module connected to the battery, where when an electricity quantity of the battery is lower than a preset electricity quantity, the first cassette moves to a location corresponding to the charging module, so that the charging receiver module cooperates with the charging module to wirelessly charge the battery. 1. A stocker , comprising:a storage cabinet;a shelf, arranged inside the storage cabinet, wherein at least one charging module is arranged on the shelf;a first cassette, arranged on the shelf and capable of moving relative to the shelf;a second cassette, arranged on the shelf and capable of moving relative to the shelf, wherein the second cassette is configured to accommodate a carried object;a monitoring apparatus, arranged inside the first cassette and configured to monitor cleanliness of air in the storage cabinet; anda battery apparatus, arranged inside the first cassette and configured to supply power to the monitoring apparatus, wherein the battery apparatus comprises a polymer lithium battery and a charging receiver module and a detection module connected to the polymer lithium battery, and the detection module is configured to detect an electricity quantity of the polymer lithium battery, whereinwhen the electricity quantity of the polymer lithium battery is lower than a preset electricity quantity, the first cassette moves to a location corresponding ...

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Номер записи: 78
09-01-2020 дата публикации

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AUTOMATED PRODUCT SORTING AND ORDER FULFILLMENT USING DRONES WITHIN A FACILITY

Номер: US20200010273A1
Автор: Bellar Jason, Velten Jeremy L.
Принадлежит:

Exemplary embodiments describe a system, a method and computer-readable medium for fulfilling orders. Embodiments include a server, an automated sorting system and a drone. The automated sorting system determines an item is associated with an online order based on scanning an identifier affixed to the item and the order data stored at the server. The automated sorting system determines the status for the order associated with the item. If the order is in-process, then the automated sorting system transmits instructions to the drone to transport the item to the location of the order container associated with the order. If the order is pending, then the automated sorting system sorts the item into a container, and scans and associates the container identifier with the order. 1. A system for fulfilling online orders , the system comprising:a server storing order data for an order, the order data including an order identifier number, an order status, an order container identifier, and an order container location; scan machine readable identifiers affixed to a plurality of items, and', 'automatically sort the plurality of items into two or more categories, wherein one of the categories is an online order category;, 'an automated sorting system in communication with the server and configured toa container having a machine readable identifier affixed thereto and disposed near the automated sorting system; anda drone in communication with the automated sorting system, wherein the automatic sorting by the automated sorting system:determines that an item of the plurality of items is associated with the online order category based on a machine readable identifier affixed to the item and the order data stored at the server,retrieves the order identifier number associated with the item,determines the order status for the order identifier number, andin response to determining that the order status indicates that the order is in-process, transmits instructions to the drone to ...

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Номер записи: 79
09-01-2020 дата публикации

Article Transport Facility and Article Transport Method

Номер: US20200010274A1
Автор: Fukuwa Yuya, Okuhara Mamoru, Ooyama Hirokazu, Sato Nobuhiko
Принадлежит:

A control device executes retrieval control to, in response to a transport request in which a type and an order of each of a plurality of articles that are transported to a transport target location are specified, retrieve all the articles specified in the transport request from a target automatic warehouse, which is one automatic warehouse selected from among a plurality of automatic warehouses, to a retrieval transport device in a specified order that is specified in the transport request. The control device executes, before execution of the retrieval control, inter-warehouse movement control to, if at least one of the plurality of articles specified in the transport request is not stored in the target automatic warehouse, move the article that is not stored in the target automatic warehouse from another automatic warehouse to the target automatic warehouse by using an inter-warehouse transport device. 1. An article transport facility comprising:a plurality of automatic warehouses that store articles;a retrieval transport device that transports, to a transport target location, the articles retrieved from the plurality of automatic warehouses;an inter-warehouse transport device that transports the articles between the plurality of automatic warehouses; anda control device that controls operation of each of the plurality of automatic warehouses, the retrieval transport device, and the inter-warehouse transport device,wherein the control device executes retrieval control to, in response to a transport request in which a type and an order of each of a plurality of articles that are transported to the transport target location are specified, retrieve all the articles specified in the transport request from a target automatic warehouse, which is one automatic warehouse selected from among the plurality of automatic warehouses, to the retrieval transport device in a specified order that is specified in the transport request, andwherein the control device executes, before ...

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Номер записи: 80
12-01-2017 дата публикации

System and Method for Configuring Workstations

Номер: US20170011336A1
Автор: Nicholas Cravalho, Rob Stevens, Timothy Bragg, William J. Watt
Принадлежит: Amazon Technologies Inc

A method for managing an inventory system includes receiving an operation request that identifies an inventory item and selecting, from a plurality of workstations, a workstation at which to fulfill the operation request. The method also includes moving an inventory holder storing the identified inventory item to the selected workstation and moving a supply holder storing a supply item associated with the received operation request to the selected workstation. The method additionally includes fulfilling the operation request, at least in part, at the workstation.

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Номер записи: 81
03-02-2022 дата публикации

SECURE PACKAGE DELIVERY AND PICK-UP SYSTEM

Номер: US20220031105A1
Автор: Newcomb Royce
Принадлежит:

A secure package delivery and pick-up system includes a security door having a frame, and one or more collapsible storage compartments affixed to the frame. The collapsible storage compartments are configured for accommodating packages. An electronic unit is mounted on the frame, and is configured for electronically controlling an operation for the collapsible storage compartments. A security device is connected to the security door and receives images of a physical object from a first camera, receives an indication from at least one security tether indicating movement of the at least one physical object, and provides an alert based on the indication of movement of the at least one physical object. 1. A secure package delivery and pick-up system , the system comprising:a security door comprising a frame;one or more collapsible storage compartments affixed to the frame, wherein each of the one or more collapsible storage compartments is configured for accommodating one or more packages, and open ends of the one or more collapsible storage compartments are secured using compartment doors;an electronic unit mounted on the frame, wherein the electronic unit is configured for electronically controlling an operation for the one or more collapsible storage compartments for secure delivery or return pick-up of the one or more packages; anda security device coupled to the security door, the security device including a memory device including instructions, and at least one processor configured for executing the instructions to:receive images of at least one physical object from a first camera coupled to the at least one processor; 'provide an alert based on the indication of movement of the at least one physical object.', 'receive an indication from at least one security tether indicating movement of the at least one physical object; and'}2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one security tether is at least one physical security tether device coupled to the at least ...

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Номер записи: 82
15-01-2015 дата публикации

System and Method For Maintaining a Minimum Separation Between Pallets Positioned on Adjacent Racks

Номер: US20150014262A1
Автор: Kevin McAuliffe
Принадлежит: Individual

A system is provided for maintaining a minimum separation between a first pallet positioned on a first rack and a second pallet positioned on a second rack. The system comprises a double back stop that includes a first back stop attached to the first rack to prevent lateral movement of the first pallet beyond the first back stop. The double back stop also includes a second back stop attached to the second rack to prevent lateral movement of the second pallet beyond the second back stop. A minimum distance is maintained between the first and second backstops such that the minimum separation is maintained. The double back stop also includes a middle section to connect the first back stop to the second back stop. Methods are also provided for forming the double back stop and for maintaining the minimum separation between the first pallet and the second pallet.

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Номер записи: 83
09-01-2020 дата публикации

METHODS, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING MOVEMENT OF TRANSPORTING DEVICES

Номер: US20200012268A1
Автор: Brett Christopher, Stadie Robert, WHELAN Matthew
Принадлежит: Ocado Innovation Limited

A system and method for controlling movement of transporting devices arranged to transport containers stored in stacks arranged in a facility having pathways arranged in a grid-like structure above the stacks, the transporting devices being configured to operate on the grid-like structure. A movement optimisation unit is configured to determine a route of a transporting device from one location on a grid-like structure to another location on the grid-like structure for each transporting device. A reservation unit is configured to reserve a path on the grid-like structure for each transporting device based on the determined route. A clearance unit is configured to provide clearance for each transporting device to traverse a portion of the reserved path. 1. A system for controlling movement of transporting devices arranged to transport containers , the containers being stored in stacks arranged in a facility , the facility having pathways arranged in a grid-like structure above the stacks , the transporting devices being configured to operate on the grid-like structure , the system comprising:a movement optimisation unit configured to determine a route of a transporting device from one location on a grid-like structure to another location on the grid-like structure for each transporting device;a reservation unit configured to reserve a path on the grid-like structure for each transporting device based on the determined route, wherein the path reserved for each transporting device is provided such that no two transporting devices have locations on the grid-like structure which would cause transporting devices to overlap at a same time; anda clearance unit configured to provide clearance for each transporting device to traverse a portion of the reserved path, wherein the clearance is provided for execution at a future start time.2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the time between providing the clearance and the future start time is a configurable parameter.3. ...

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Номер записи: 84
03-02-2022 дата публикации

Empty container detection

Номер: US20220032467A1
Автор: Brooks Joel, Friedman Yuli, Keck Mark, Matthew Browne, Novotny Paul, Odhner Lael
Принадлежит:

Devices, systems, and methods for determining whether a container is empty in the context of robotic picking solutions. The system includes a plurality of sensors configured to gather container data regarding a container at a first location, wherein the container data includes at least two of weight data related to the container, depth data related to the container, and color sensor data related to the container, and a processor configured to execute instructions stored on a memory to provide a sensor fusion module configured to process the received container data to determine whether the container is empty. 1. A method of detecting whether a container is empty , the method comprising:receiving a container at a first location; weight data related to the container,', 'depth data related to the container, and', 'color sensor data related to the container;, 'receiving container data from a plurality of sensors, wherein the container data includes at least two ofprocessing, using a processor executing instructions stored on memory to provide a sensor fusion module, the received container data to determine whether the container is empty; andautonomously removing the container from the first location upon the sensor fusion module determining the container is empty.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:perturbing the container;determining that the container is not empty after perturbing the container; andremoving at least one item from the container after determining that the container is not empty.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising generating a confidence score regarding a likelihood the container is empty claim 1 , wherein the confidence score is based on the received container data.4. The method of claim 3 , further comprising:perturbing the container upon determining the confidence score is less than a predetermined threshold;gathering a second set of data regarding the perturbed container; andanalyzing the second set of data to generate a second ...

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Номер записи: 85
03-02-2022 дата публикации

WAREHOUSING LINE, WAREHOUSING MANAGEMENT METHOD AND DEVICE

Номер: US20220033184A1
Автор: Huang Tao, YANG Hu, ZHOU Anbao, Zhou Yi
Принадлежит:

A warehousing line, a warehousing management method and device may include: a storage device, provided with a plurality of storage locations, wherein each storage location is provided with a location sensor configured to determine storage information of the storage location; a first conveyor device, configured to convey items to or from the storage device, wherein the first conveyor device is provided with a first information collection element configured to collect information of each item on the first conveyor device; a first stacking device, configured to move the item from the first conveyor device to a corresponding storage location of the plurality of storage locations, or to move the item in one of the plurality of storage locations to the first conveyor device; and a warehousing management system in communication connection with the location sensors, the first information collection element and the first stacking device respectively. 1. A warehousing line , comprising:a storage device, provided with a plurality of storage locations, wherein each storage location is provided with a location sensor, and the location sensor is configured to determine storage information of each of the plurality of storage locations;a first conveyor device, configured to convey items to or from the storage device, wherein the first conveyor device is provided with a first information collection element, and the first information collection element is configured to collect information of each item on the first conveyor device;a first stacking device, configured to move each item from the first conveyor device to a corresponding storage location of the plurality of storage locations, or to move the item from one of the plurality of storage locations to the first conveyor device; anda warehousing management system in communication connection with each location sensor, the first information collection element, and the first stacking device respectively.2. The warehousing line of ...

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Номер записи: 86
03-02-2022 дата публикации

DISTRIBUTION STATION

Номер: US20220033185A1
Автор: Chen Ying, WANG Zhao, Xiao Jun, ZHANG Yafang
Принадлежит: BEIJING JINGDONG QIANSHI TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.

A distribution station includes a base, a housing, a rotating shelf, a distribution vehicle, a sorting device, and a control system. The housing is provided on the base, and is provided with a goods access port and an access door. The rotating shelf is provided on the base and located in the housing. The rotating shelf includes a rotating shaft, a transmission belt, a plurality of shelf units, and a driving mechanism. The distribution vehicle enters and exits the housing via the access door and is used to transport goods. The sorting device is provided on the base and located in the housing. The sorting device is used to pick up goods and place the same between the distribution vehicle and the shelf units. The control system is used to control the driving mechanism and the sorting device. 1. A distribution station , comprising:a base;a housing provided on the base and provided with a goods access port and an access door; a rotating shaft provided on the base vertically and provided with a rotating wheel concentric with the rotating shaft;', 'a transmission belt wound around outer circumference of the rotating wheel;', 'a plurality of shelf units provided on the transmission belt at intervals in a horizontal direction, and the shelf units are configured to store goods; and', 'a driving mechanism connected to the rotating shaft in transmission, the driving mechanism is configured to drive the rotating shaft to rotate axially around itself, so that at least one of the plurality of shelf units corresponds to the goods access port;, 'a rotating shelf provided on the base and located in the housing, the rotating shelf comprisinga distribution vehicle configured to enter and exit the housing through the access door and transport the goods;a sorting device provided on the base and located in the housing, the sorting device is configured to pick up and place the goods between the distribution vehicle and the shelf units; anda control system configured to control the driving ...

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Номер записи: 87
03-02-2022 дата публикации

System-Directed Single Line Pick Batching

Номер: US20220033186A1
Автор: Amador Paolo Gerli, Cox Gregory Patrick, Douglas Matthew Robert, Jarvis Daniel, Kalra Amit, Nilsen Stephen
Принадлежит:

A system-directed single line pick batching is described. In an example implementation, the system may receive data describing a set of orders including SKU identifiers associated with items in the orders, identify an eligible cart, and assign a location to a task queue of the cart based on the location being associated with a particular SKU identifier. In some instances, the location or SKU identifier may be determined based on an order with a certain quantity of different SKU identifiers. In some instances, the system may navigate the cart to the location and instruct the item to be picked from the location. In response to completion of the pick of the item, the system may navigate the cart to an end point. 1. A computer-implemented method comprising:receiving, by one or more processors, data describing a set of orders, the set of orders including one or more items having one or more stock keeping unit (SKU) identifiers associated with the one or more items;identifying, by the one or more processors, a first cart for batch picking;assigning, by the one or more processors, a first location in a pick-to-cart area to a task queue of the first cart based on a first item having a first SKU identifier being located at the first location and a first order of the set of orders including the first SKU identifier;navigating, by the one or more processors, the first cart to the first location in a pick-to-cart area;instructing, by the one or more processors, a picker to pick the first item having the first SKU identifier at the first location;receiving, by the one or more processors, one or more confirmation inputs indicating completion of a pick of the first item having the first SKU identifier to the first cart; andnavigating, by the one or more processors, the first cart to an end point.2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1 , further comprising:receiving, by the one or more processors, after dispatching the first cart, order data representing a second order, the ...

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Номер записи: 88
03-02-2022 дата публикации

AUTOMATED MULTI-STOREY WAREHOUSE

Номер: US20220033187A1
Автор: Bianco Roberto, Impedovo Roberto, VECCARO Leonardo Antonio
Принадлежит:

An automated multi-storey warehouse is provided with a first and at least a second module, each having: at least one pick-up/deposit station to allow an operator to retrieve and/or deposit products relative to trays arranged in the station; and a transfer lift assembly having a lift shaft and a pick-up/deposit device, which is movable in the lift shaft and is configured so as to be able to horizontally translate the trays; the second module is a storage module having at least one storage column directly alongside the lift shaft and capable of accommodating respective trays; the pick-up/deposit station of the first module is arranged at a first level, whereas the storage column of the second module is arranged at a second level and is completely above or below the first level; the warehouse has an exchange station, which has at least one place for the temporary depositing of a tray and is accessible by both the pick-up/deposit devices of the first and the second module. 2305191910105badadb. The warehouse according to claim 1 , wherein said exchange station () is arranged in said second level (); and wherein the lift shaft (;) of the first module (;) extends vertically in the second level ().3121014bbb. The warehouse according to claim 1 , wherein the pick-up/deposit station () of said second module () is integrated in said storage column ().4102514261910bbbb. The warehouse according to claim 1 , wherein the second module () comprises an additional storage column () claim 1 , which is distinct from said storage column () claim 1 , has a plurality of places () to accommodate respective trays and is arranged in a position directly alongside the lift shaft () of said second module ().51425101910bbbb. The warehouse according to claim 4 , wherein the storage column () and the additional storage column () of the second module () are arranged in positions diametrically opposite with respect to the lift shaft () of the second module ().63025. The warehouse according to claim ...

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Номер записи: 89
03-02-2022 дата публикации

STORAGE SYSTEM AND/OR PRODUCTION SYSTEM HAVING AT LEAST ONE HANDLING DEVICE

Номер: US20220033188A1
Автор: FRIEDBERGER Nicolai, GUGGEMOS Herbert, HOESSLE Florian, ZOLLITSCH Markus
Принадлежит:

The disclosure relates to a system having a handling device which is a rail-bound vehicle having a travel unit movable in a longitudinal direction of the system or a handling device fixed at a location with a travel unit movable about its own axis, a lifting unit of a stacker crane movable in a vertical direction, and a load receiving unit which can be movable and/or rotatable in a transverse direction, wherein the load receiving unit has an interface for fastening a lifting tool that is configured such that the lifting tool or a part of the lifting tool can be automatically changed or removed, with the handling device having a releasable latching device in whose closed state the lifting tool or its changeable part is secured against loss. 1. A storage system and/or production system having at least one handling device which is a rail-bound vehicle having a travel unit movable in a longitudinal direction of the system or a handling device fixed at a location with a travel unit movable about its own axis , a lifting unit of a stacker crane movable in a vertical direction , and a load receiving unit which can be movable and/or rotatable in a transverse direction , wherein the load receiving unit has an interface for fastening a lifting tool that is configured such that the lifting tool or a part of the lifting tool can be automatically changed or removed , with the handling device having a releasable latching device in whose closed state the lifting tool or its changeable part is secured against loss ,whereinthe storage system and/or production system or the handling device has at least one storage space or placement station for lifting tools; andthe releasable latching device of the handling device at a storage space or placement station can be displaced from a closed state into an open state and vice versa.2. The storage system and/or production system in accordance with claim 1 , wherein the at least one storage space of the handling device has an actuation device ...

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Номер записи: 90
03-02-2022 дата публикации

Automated dispensing and assembly process for a food item

Номер: US20220033242A1
Автор: Kevin ZUBARIK
Принадлежит: Server Products Inc

A system and method for guiding the assembly of a food or beverage item including a number of components is disclosed. The system includes a starting point device having a controller. The starting point device is operable to receive the details of the food item, which includes the components required to create the food or beverage item. The controller is in communication with multiple dispensers and bins that each include one or more of the components and an indicator. The controller activates the indicators associated with each of the components of the food or beverage item either sequentially or simultaneously to indicate to the staff member all of the components that need to be added to the food or beverage item. As each component is added, the indicator is deactivated until all of the components have been added. Once the food or beverage item is created, the controller indicates that the next food or beverage item can be created.

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Номер записи: 91
19-01-2017 дата публикации

MODULAR AND CONFIGURABLE PICK/PUT WALL

Номер: US20170015502A1
Автор: Engel Christopher M., Godschalk William J, Nashif Hazem N., Nentwig Joseph B., Reese Lance
Принадлежит: INTELLIGRATED HEADQUARTERS, LLC

A modular order fullment system uses a number of inexpensive mobile apparatuses such as containers with horizontally accessible bins that are brought to a stationary frame that supports a pick-to-light system to direct a human or robotic operator to pick from or put to receptacles in the mobile apparatus. 1. An order fulfillment system , comprising:receiving apparatus comprising a front frame having an array of node locations located proximate to one or more openings;more than one mobile apparatus, each being sequentially positionable behind the receiving frame to align more than one receptacle for holding articles with one of the array of node locations; anda light order fulfillment system comprising more than one article indicating module each mounted to a respective node location on the front frame of the receiving apparatus.2. The order fulfillment system of claim 1 , further comprising a pick-to-light controller that is in communication with a warehouse management system to interact with an operator to effect one of a pick from or put to a selected receptacle.3. The order fulfillment system of claim 2 , further comprising:an identification reader to read an identification artifact carried by each of the more than one mobile apparatus; anda controller in communication with the identification reader to read an identifier of the configuration of receptacles and to configure operation of the light order system to the configuration of receptacles.4. The order fulfillment system of claim 1 , wherein the more than one mobile apparatus comprise a mobile container with horizontally accessible receptacles formed by horizontal and vertical dividers.5. The order fulfillment system of claim 1 , wherein the front frame comprises a pair of vertical supports that receive more than one horizontal arm having the array of node locations.6. The order fulfillment system of claim 5 , wherein one or more of the horizontal arms are vertically adjustable on the vertical supports to ...

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Номер записи: 92
21-01-2016 дата публикации

Article Storage Facility and Method of Operating Same

Номер: US20160016732A1
Автор: Koide Hiroyuki, Yamazaki Yasuhiro
Принадлежит:

A main controller controls carry in operations and carry out operations of articles to or from an article storage rack using article transport devices by causing a control command to be transmitted from a first optical communication device that is associated with each article transport device to a second optical communication device provided to each article transport device. The main controller is configured to perform a temporally-divided light-emission control in which a plurality of the first optical communication devices are caused to emit light in a temporally divided manner such that there is only one first optical communication device that emits light in any one time period among the first optical communication devices that are located close to one another in the vertical direction.

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Номер записи: 93
21-01-2016 дата публикации

REPLENISHMENT AND ORDER FULFILLMENT SYSTEM

Номер: US20160016733A1
Автор: Lert John
Принадлежит:

A warehousing system for storing and retrieving goods disposed in containers is provided. The system includes a multilevel storage array including an array of storage shelves for holding containers thereon, at least one substantially continuous lift for transporting containers to and from at least one level of the storage array, at least one transport vehicle located on the at least one level and configured to traverse a transport area transporting containers between the at least one continuous lift and container storage locations so that the at least one continuous lift communicates non-deterministically, via the transport vehicle, with storage locations of each of the storage shelves on the at least one level, an infeed transport system linked to the at least one continuous lift, and an order fulfillment station for generating order containers corresponding to customer orders where the order containers are entered onto the storage shelves of the storage array.

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Номер записи: 94
18-01-2018 дата публикации

CONTROL SYSTEM FOR STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS

Номер: US20180016098A1
Автор: HINSHAW Foster D., Lert John, Peters Eric, Sullivan Robert, Toebes Stephen, Ulrich Nathan
Принадлежит:

A warehouse storage and retrieval system including an array of multilevel storage racks having at least one transfer deck, picking isles and storage areas disposed along picking isles, the storage areas being configured to hold differing loads, and a controller including a management module configured to variably size the storage areas of the array of multilevel storage rack modules and assign each of the variably sized storage areas to a corresponding one of the differing loads, wherein the storage and retrieval system is arranged to transport the differing loads for placement in the variably sized storage areas assigned by the controller. 1. A method comprising:providing a storage and retrieval system having an array of multilevel storage racks, each level of the multilevel level storage racks having storage spaces configured to hold a respective load;providing at least one vertical lift at a fixed planform location within the array of multilevel storage racks;at least transporting, with the at least one vertical lift, loads from each level of the multilevel storage racks, each level having a vertical lift transfer location corresponding to each fixed planform location of the at least one vertical lift; andselecting, with a controller, a vertical lift transfer location for transport of loads from a respective level of the multilevel storage racks based on a predetermined characteristic of load fill sequencing of a first load in a load fill sequence with respect to another load in the load fill sequence.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined characteristic is a scarcity of levels on which a predetermined load in the load fill sequence is located.3. The method of claim 2 , further comprising claim 2 , with the controller claim 2 , looking ahead a predetermined number of order lines in the load fill sequence;determining if the other load in one of the predetermined number of order lines exists on fewer than a predetermined number of levels; andselecting ...

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Номер записи: 95
17-01-2019 дата публикации

ZONELESS PICK METHOD AND SYSTEM WITH OPERATOR DATA TRACKING

Номер: US20190016533A1
Автор: Post Tim, Van Hekken Jon
Принадлежит:

A zoneless pick-to-light method and system initially inducts a group of totes into an initial picking station by scanning a tote identifier for each tote in the group. A product order is assigned to each tote in the inducted group of totes, such that matching a product in the picking station with the order causes a light to be illuminated adjacent to the corresponding product needed to fulfill the order. A user scans a personal identification and picks and places the desired quantity of the product to fulfill the product order for each tote at the station. The group of totes are moved in a flow direction to an adjacent picking station, where the user can elect to either follow the group of totes to the adjacent downstream picking station or abandon the group of totes, such that a different user may complete the product orders for the group of totes. 1. A method of picking products in a pick system , said method comprising:inducting a group of totes to an initial station of an arrangement of picking stations;assigning at least a portion of a product order to at least one tote in the inducted group of totes;responsive to the product order of the group of totes identifying a product in a picking station where the group of totes is located, indicating the product to be picked;moving the group of totes in a flow direction along the arrangement of picking stations from the initial picking station to downstream adjacent picking stations;identifying a user at a picking station; andwherein the user picks to a group of totes as that group moves along the flow direction until that user abandons that group of totes by (i) identifying a different user at that group of totes or (ii) identifying that user at a different group of totes.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the user is identified by scanning a user identification at a picking station to associate the user with that picking station.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the user elects to either (i) follow the group of ...

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Номер записи: 96
17-01-2019 дата публикации

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANEUVERING A MOBILE DRIVE UNIT

Номер: US20190016573A1
Автор: DAndrea Rafaello
Принадлежит:

A mobile drive unit is provided for transporting an inventory holder. The mobile drive unit is operable to dock with the inventory holder, move the inventory holder in a first translational direction, and while docked with the inventory holder, selectively rotate the inventory holder while continuing to move in the first translational direction. 127-. (canceled)28. A method for transporting an inventory holder comprising:docking a mobile drive unit with the inventory holder;while the mobile drive unit and the inventory holder are docked together, moving the mobile drive unit and the inventory holder in a first translational direction; andselectively rotating the inventory holder while the mobile drive unit and the inventory holder move in the first translational direction.29. The method of claim 28 , further comprising selectively rotating the mobile drive unit in a first rotational direction while the inventory holder selectively rotates in a second rotational direction.30. The method of claim 29 , further comprising the mobile drive unit rotating in the first rotational direction by an amount calculated to cause the mobile drive unit to change from the first translational direction to a second translational direction.31. The method of claim 29 , wherein the first and second rotational directions are different.32. The method claim 28 , and further comprising the mobile drive unit rotating in a first rotational direction at a first rate of movement while selectively rotating the inventory holder in a second rotational direction at a second rate of movement claim 28 , wherein the first rate of movement and the second rate of movement are different.33. The method of claim 28 , wherein the inventory holder comprises a first face that is orthogonal to the first translational direction and further comprising the mobile drive unit claim 28 , while continuing translational movement claim 28 , rotating to a second translational direction while the first face of the ...

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Номер записи: 97
03-02-2022 дата публикации

HANDLING METHOD OF A TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT SET AND TRANSPORT EQUIPMENT SET

Номер: US20220036291A1
Автор: Tang Chongwei, WANG Tiaohong
Принадлежит:

This application discloses a handling method of a transport equipment set, the transport equipment set including an exclusive transport storage section; an intermediate storage section; and an automatic warehousing device operative to move within the range of the exclusive transport storage section and the intermediate storage section. The handling method of the transport equipment set includes: obtaining a current instruction executed by the automatic warehousing device; and determining whether it conflicts with the automatic warehousing device and so needs to skip the current instruction and turn to execute a next instruction. 1. A handling method of a transport equipment set , the transport equipment set comprising:two or more exclusive transport storage sections, configured for storing cassettes;an intermediate storage section, disposed between two adjacent exclusive transport storage sections; andan automatic warehousing device, configured to transport the cassettes and operative to move within the range of the corresponding exclusive transport storage section and the adjacent intermediate storage section;wherein the handling method comprises:obtaining a current instruction executed by the automatic warehousing device;if the current instruction is a first instruction, determining whether the automatic warehousing device conflicts with another neighboring automatic warehousing device during execution; if the automatic warehousing device conflicts with the other neighboring automatic warehousing device during execution, skipping the current instruction and turning to execute a second instruction by the automatic warehousing device; otherwise if the automatic warehousing device does not conflict with the other neighboring automatic warehousing device during execution, executing the current instruction by the automatic warehousing device; andif the current instruction is the second instruction, executing the current instruction by the automatic warehousing device; ...

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Номер записи: 98
03-02-2022 дата публикации

AUTOMATED-SERVICE RETAIL SYSTEM AND METHOD

Номер: US20220036295A1
Автор: JR. John G., Lert
Принадлежит: ALERT INNOVATION INC.

A combination automated-service and self-service store for implementation at brick-and-mortar retail locations is provided. The store and corresponding method of implementation is an automated-service model in which robots, deployed at the brick-and-mortar location, fill orders for fungible goods placed by customers either online or in-store. The store also includes a shopping section where customers can select/order items and/or personally select non-fungible goods. The store includes a shopping section for non-fungible goods that customers prefer to pick out by hand and a back end automated order fulfillment section for other goods (e.g., fungible goods, dry goods, etc.). The two sets of goods are merged to a delivery bundle and delivered together for pickup by the customer. The combination automated-service and self-service store combines the convenience of online shopping and self-service shopping using an unconventional approach that reduces costs for the retailer and simultaneously increases customer satisfaction. 1. (canceled)2. An automated store , comprising:a non-fungible goods section configured to present non-fungible goods for selection by a customer or customer proxy;a non-fungible goods tracking system configured to track selection of one or more non-fungible goods in an order comprising one or more non-fungible goods and one or more fungible goods;an automated fulfillment section configured for automated fulfillment and gathering of the one or more fungible goods in the order; anda transfer station where the one or more non-fungible goods in the order are transferred from the non-fungible goods section to the automated fulfillment section; receive one or more identifiers from the non-fungible goods tracking system of the one or more non-fungible goods selected into the order by the customer or customer proxy;', 'receive one or more identifiers of one or more fungible goods selected into the order;', 'direct the gathering by the automated fulfillment ...

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Номер записи: 99
16-01-2020 дата публикации

Robotic order picking

Номер: US20200017297A1
Автор: Ashwin Mohan, Debajit Ghosh, Karen Boser
Принадлежит: Target Brands Inc

A computer-implemented method includes receiving an indication that an order scheduled for later pickup is to be picked up earlier than scheduled. A plurality of robots that are holding items that form at least part of the order are then identified and instructed to move immediately to a pickup location and to make the items of the order held by the plurality of robots available for retrieval from the plurality of robots.

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Номер записи: 100