Abstract: An inventory system with feedback for picking or placing items is disclosed. In this system, there is a plurality of bins or storage locations, one for each item stored. The bins are typically used in a warehouse to fulfill and ship orders of a list of items. Each bin or pair of bins is equipped with a module for directing a picking specialist to the correct bin for manually picking an order. When the picking specialist reaches into a bin to select an item, a passive heat sensor senses heat from the picker's hand, or a magnet detecting circuit detects a magnet on the picker's hand or wrist. This provides positive feedback that the correct bin was sought to retrieve the item, or an alarm or other signal may indicate the incorrect bin. The system may also be used to replenish inventory or return items to stock.

Abstract: A sortation system includes a track arrangement and a series of carriers which are movable on the track arrangement, such as by a roller chain or the like. A series of sort stations are provided at various locations along the track arrangement, and items are placed into the carriers at an induction station. Each carrier is programmed at the induction station with a destination sort station, according to the identity of the item carried by the carrier. Each sort station has a unique identification arrangement, such as a sort station module which emits a sort station identification signal which is received by the carriers as the carriers are moved toward the sort stations. If the sort station identification signal matches the destination identification programmed into the carrier, a trip mechanism associated with the sort station is activated so as to discharge the item from the carrier. The carrier is then reset and transported to the induction station for receiving another item to be sorted.

Abstract: An identification arrangement for an order fulfillment system includes an identification input associated with each location in an order fulfillment system at which items are handled, such as by removal or placement, for filling an order. Each item storage location includes a switch that is actuated by a user after items have been handled, such as by removing the items for placement into an order receptacle, as in a conventional pick-to-light order fulfillment system. The identification input includes a unique signal emitter carried by the user, such as an infrared transmitter which emits a signal having a unique frequency corresponding to the identity of the user. The signal is received by a signal receiver located adjacent the switch, and which is interconnected with a central controller that stores information on the signals used as identification for each user. The user can remove items from any location in the order fulfillment area to fill any order.