Abstract: An automatic retrieval system for retrieving selected articles, such as articles of clothing, provided on hangers at predetermined storage locations arranged in rows includes a transporter moving along a path above the row of storage locations for transporting retrieved articles to a delivery point. The transporter has a pivotal arm for moving retrieved hangers clear of the other hanging articles and for rotating the retrieved hangers so as to be transported end-on, thus producing a compact storage/retrieval facility. A pick-off/gripping device is provided at the end of the transporter arm for disengaging the selected hangers from the storage location at which they are held. Where the hangers are suspended from slots in a rail, the transporter may carry magnetic field detectors for detecting the open tops of the slots.

Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring and/or restricting access to individual items each provided with a unique identifying code comprises a console provided with a plurality of identical receptacles each for retaining one of a plurality of items. The receptacles are scanned one by one by a microprocessor and the identity of each of the items in the receptacles is obtained and recorded. When a user wishes to obtain an item he first identifies himself to the microprocessor using an identity card read by a card reader and by inputting a personal identity number by a keyboard. The item the user wishes is then identified to the computer using a keyboard and if all input information relating to user and item is correct the microprocessor causes an indicator lamp to be lit adjacent the receptacle containing the desired item and for a retaining latch holding the item in the receptacle to be released thus permitting the user to take the item. Details relating to the user, the item taken and the time of day are recorded.