Abstract: In a vertical carousel storage and retrieval unit and the like, a restricted multi-compartment tote is used in conjunction with a height control such as a plurality of blocking rail. The tote is step-shaped and extends into the full depth of the unit. The blocking rail system allows sliding doors to be moved to one or more intermediate positions between fully open and fully closed positions in order to provide restricted authorized access to each of the compartments in sequential order from the first compartment at the front of the tote to the last compartment at the rear of the tote.

Abstract: A storage and retrieval system, such as a vertical carousel or vertical lift module, and access method provides substantially improved control over access to the contents stored in the system. A desired number of small doors are provided at an access area to limit an operator to obtaining a product from only that compartment on a carrier adjacent the access area. The doors are slidable or pivotable and can be locked and unlocked by a mechanism. The carousel is provided with carriers having compartments which can be divided into desired arrays depending upon product size and mix. The carriers are selectively movable to one of several positions adjacent the access area. Access to the carriers can be obtained through placement of an access area on one side or both sides of the machine. Electronic controls can be provided for each storage system or external computer controls can be used for a group of storage systems to permit more efficient use of the controls as well as remote placement of the storage systems.

Abstract: A storage and retrieval system, such as a vertical carousel or vertical lift module, and access method provides substantially improved control over access to the contents stored in the system. A desired number of small doors are provided at an access area to limit an operator to obtaining a product from only that compartment on a carrier adjacent the access area. The doors are slidable or pivotable and can be locked and unlocked by a mechanism. The carousel is provided with carriers having compartments which can be divided into desired arrays depending upon product size and mix. The carriers are selectively movable to one of several positions adjacent the access area. Access to the carriers can be obtained through placement of an access area on one side or both sides of the machine. Electronic controls can be provided for each storage system or external computer controls can be used for a group of storage systems to permit more efficient use of the controls as well as remote placement of the storage systems.