Abstract: An inventory retrieval method is disclosed for use with a central order desk computer. The computer has a database containing inventory unit identification related to specific storage locations in a warehouse. One or more inventory retrieval carts are provided, each cart having a number of containers suitable for receiving inventory picked from designated storage locations. Each cart has a display, and communicates with the computer by radio transmission. According to the method multiple orders are received at the computer. Each order is assigned to a container on an assigned cart. The computer sends successive pick locations to the cart, and the cart operator fills the containers on the cart according to the symbol received from the computer.

Abstract: A mobile cart for carrying units and communicating with a computer by radio frequency, the cart including a frame, shelves mounted on the frame and adapted to carry units, a terminal associated with the frame which communicates with the computer for receiving data regarding the location and placement of the units on the shelves, displays associated with the shelves and communicating with the terminal, and a scanner communicating with the terminal for scanning location identifiers and/or units.