Abstract: A rotary seat including a base includes an outer surface, and a composite material layer attached to at least a part of the outer surface. The base also includes a recess for accommodating a turntable and including a first opening on the outer surface. The material of the composite material layer includes fibers and a resin. Therefore, the rotary seat may be more lightweight. A rotary table is also provided and includes the rotary seat, a driving device which drives the rotary seat to rotate, and a turntable which is rotatably disposed in the recess of the base.

Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure relate to methods, apparatus, and systems for replacing a drive assembly of a turntable load station. A system includes a structural pier, a track formed on a top surface of the structural pier, a turntable, a bogie assembly detachably coupled to an underside of the turntable, the bogie assembly including a wheeled drive assembly, a swap rail mounted to a radial side surface of the structural pier, and a translating cartridge movably mounted to the swap rail in a serviceable orientation. The translating cartridge is configured to move along the radial side surface of the structural pier via the swap rail while in the serviceable orientation to an unloading position underneath the bogie assembly, pivot from the serviceable orientation to an upright functional orientation to couple with the wheeled drive assembly, and decouple the wheeled drive assembly from the bogie assembly.

Abstract: Provided is a chocking device, including a frame, a plate, and a stop. The frame has an uppermost surface and a lowermost surface opposite the uppermost surface. The plate has a contact surface and is movable between a first position, wherein a portion of the contact surface is substantially coextensive with the uppermost surface of the frame, and a second position, wherein the portion of the contact surface is between the uppermost and lowermost surface of the frame. The stop is coupled to the frame and arranged in direct contact with the plate. The stop is rotatable such that movement of the plate from the first position to the second position rotates the stop from a first to a second stop position. The plate is movable such that the contact surface is substantially parallel when the plate is in the first and second positions.

Abstract: A management system and method are provided for managing the storage, parking, and delivery of a recreational vehicle (RV). The management system may include a block unit for receiving the RV, a delivery system connected to the block unit for transporting the RV to and from the block unit, and a movement system for moving the components of the delivery system. The delivery system may include a delivery housing for transporting the RV to and from the block unit, a first turntable for delivering the RV to or receiving the RV from the delivery housing, and a second turntable that may be a component separate from or attached to the delivery housing. The movement system may include rails connecting the delivery system components and rail sensors positioned near the rails for directing the movement of the delivery system components on the rails. The delivery housing may be adjustable in size.

Abstract: Provided is a chocking device, including a frame, a plate, and a stop. The frame has an uppermost surface and a lowermost surface. The plate has a substantially planar contact surface and includes an operating region. The plate is movable between a first position, wherein the contact surface is arranged substantially coextensively with the uppermost surface, and a second position, wherein the contact surface is arranged between the uppermost and lowermost surfaces. The stop is coupled to the frame and has an operating portion arranged in direct contact with the operating region. The stop is rotatable such that movement of the plate from the first position to the second position rotates the stop from a first stop position to a second stop position. The operating region is arranged nearer to the uppermost surface than is the operating portion when the stop is in the first and the second stop positions.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a turntable for the rotation of automobiles, other motor vehicles, and displays. The turntable includes base arc and centering segments, arm and deck segments. The deck segment receives a vehicle. The turntable includes a center hub connecting the deck segments. The center hub comprises a center plate. The turntable includes rotating arms extending from the center plate. The turntable comprises a gear segment connected to the arms. The gear segment connects to a drive shaft via a worm gear. The turntable includes a motor connecting the drive shaft. The motor engages the drive shaft causing the gear to rotate, which in turn rotates the gear segment. Rotation of the gear segment causes the arms to rotate with support from the roller assemblies. Rotation of the arms rotates the center hub, which in turn rotates the deck segments with the vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle left and right alignment device for a parking facility. Provided is a vehicle left and right alignment device for a parking facility which is installed at an entrance of a parking facility to align wheels of an incoming vehicle, the device comprising: a front wheel alignment unit (2, 2?) and a rear wheel alignment unit (3) respectively provided on both sides of a central passage part (11) of a frame (1) installed at the entrance of the parking facility. The rear wheel alignment unit (3) comprises: a plurality of rollers (31) extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body and arranged in the vehicle width direction to be rotatable; and a driving unit (30) for rotating the rollers (31) to adjust and align the position of a rear wheel of the vehicle positioned on the rollers (31).

Abstract: A vehicle sensor calibration system for self-driving vehicles can include a turntable on which a sensor system including a LIDAR sensor is positioned. A plurality of fiducial targets can be positioned around the turntable to enable calibration of the sensor system, and a control mechanism can automatically rotate the turntable when the sensor system is positioned on the turntable. The system can include one or more computing systems that receive a data log corresponding to sensor data recorded by the sensor system as the sensor system rotates on the turntable, and analyze the sensor data to determine a set of calibration parameters to calibrate the sensor system.

Abstract: Telescopic rail includes first rail and second rail supported against each other to be linearly slidable in relation to each other in an extending direction from a first position into a second position, and locking device. The locking device includes stop element on first rail, mass element held on second rail and movable in relation to second rail in the extending direction or against the extending direction, spring element resiliently pretensioning mass element with a spring force, and locking element. The spring force has a force direction in the extending direction or against the extending direction. Mass element is movable against the spring force from an idle position into a triggering position, and, through a movement of mass element against the spring force, locking element is movable from an unlocked position into a locking position such that locking element in the locking position can be brought into engagement with stop element.

Abstract: A turntable includes a floor-level deck and a central support system configured to support the deck for rotation by a central area of the deck. The deck has an underside, a topside and, at its central area, a central relief opening from its underside to its topside. The central support system includes an above-floor stanchion that extends through the deck's central relief, and a topside rotary bearing mounted between the stanchion and the deck to carry the deck for rotation.

Abstract: A motorized turntable assembly configured for rotation of vehicles, which may be assembled on site and installed in a driveway or garage. The turntable assembly includes an annular platform that is assembled from a number of wedge-shaped sections and has an outer disk partition, an inner disk partition, and a central opening defining a cylindrical axle therebetween; wherein the annular platform is mounted on the cylindrical axle for rotational support and elevation above a foundation. There is an inner rail and outer rail, and a plurality of weight bearing and non-weight bearing wheels disposed around the central opening. A motor assembly consisting of a motor connected by a single, continuous belt is wrapped around the outer circumference of annular platform, and a spring tensioned pivot mechanism keeps the belt in contact with the annular platform.

Abstract: An electric pole-type automatic warehouse robot comprises a frame; mecanum wheels and drive wheels provided at a bottom of the frame, with the mecanum wheels being located at four corners thereof and the drive wheels being located at the middle of tow opposite sides thereof; a drive motor provided on the frame and connected to the drive wheels; a barrier module provided at a head of the frame; a rotating pallet module provided at an upper portion of the frame; a rotating motor provided within the rotating pallet module; electric poles provided on the frame and located at a bottom of the rotating pallet module; a hole provided in the frame; a first camera arranged above the hole; a second camera arranged below the hole. The robot provides an automatic operation mode with simplified mechanism design of robot, so as to increase the reliability, load-bearing capacity, running speed and security of the robot.

Abstract: Embodiments include a vehicle turntable comprising a central hub communicatively coupled to a control unit for receiving control signals; a plurality of wedge-shaped panels radially coupled to the central hub so as to form a circular surface; a plurality of wheels coupled to a number of the plurality of panels; and at least one motor configured to drive a corresponding one of the plurality of wheels and to receive the control signals from the central hub. Embodiments also include a system comprising a first turntable hub configured to control operation of a first turntable; and a control unit communicatively coupled to the first turntable hub to provide control signals to the first turntable hub.

Abstract: An additive manufacturing apparatus includes: a build module comprising a build chamber, and a least one of but less than all of the following elements: (a) a directed energy source; (b) a powder supply; (c) a powder recovery container; and (d) a powder applicator; and a workstation comprising the remainder of elements (a)-(d) not included in the build module.

Abstract: The invention pertains to a reference positioning system for positioning a workpiece in a three-dimensional coordinate system, the reference positioning system comprising a first positioning unit for positioning a first alignment feature of the workpiece in a first dimension, in a second dimension and in a third dimension, comprising a first centring pin and a first reference level locator, a second positioning unit for positioning a second alignment feature of the workpiece in the second dimension and in the third dimension, comprising a second centring pin and a second reference level locator, and a third positioning unit for positioning a third alignment feature of the workpiece in the third dimension, comprising a third reference level locator.

Abstract: A dolly pallet assembly including a pallet having a pallet body defining a bottom surface and at least two channels therein. Each channel includes side walls and a channel bottom surface spaced a first height relative to the pallet body bottom surface. An entry into each channel is defined in the body and includes a ramped surface which slopes from a second height relative to the pallet body bottom surface at the entry to a third height relative to the pallet body bottom surface adjacent the channel bottom surface, wherein the second height is less than the first and third heights. The dolly includes a support platform with a plurality of wheel assemblies and at least one locking member, wherein the dolly is positionable relative to the pallet with the wheels received in respective channels and the locking member selectively engageable to lock the dolly relative to the pallet.

Abstract: A swivel deck loading and off loading system for flatcars. The system is mounted onto a flatbed railcar and works in conjunction with the railroad loading/off loading area for the safe and efficient loading/off loading of transported equipment, such as trailers, from either side of the rail car. The system uses a structured ramp platform, which is affixed to the top flange of a slew ring bearing. The slew ring bearing lower flange is affixed to a mounting plate. This mounting plate is affixed to the bed of the rail car. The ramp platform swivels freely and is supported on a polyethylene sheet, which is affixed to the bed of the rail car. This arrangement operates such that it allows the platform to freely rotate without binding when under load. A forklift is used to lift the front of trailers so that the trailers can be loaded/unloaded from the flatcar.

Abstract: A fast set-up and very portable turntable, able to rotate objects up to 7500 pounds at varying revolutions per minute. The modified “H” beam framework creates a low profile turntable with built-in loading and exiting ramp. Heavy duty casters riding on a large plate steel base, provide a smooth, stabile surface for the revolving casters. Proximity switches are used to create a synchronized system, which operate the hydraulic cylinders used for stability. They can also trigger a digital camera every few degrees of rotation, creating a 360 degree virtual reality image. The custom designed trailer carries the turntable on its underside with the use of an inverted four inch drop axle to gain ground clearance. Winches are used to lift the turntable from the ground. Inverted towers with casters at the four corners of the trailer offer protection to the turntable from irregular surfaces or curbs.

Abstract: A battery replacement robot with a mobile storage rack includes a mechanical part and an electrical control part. The electrical control part controls a battery replacement device to place, in one step, all battery boxes required by one side of an electric bus that needs battery replacement onto a battery box storage rack. A horizontal moving unit moves to a position where a battery needs to be replaced. A battery box replacement device takes down a spent battery box from the electric bus; the battery box replacement device rotates towards one side around a Y axis, and raises or lowers the spent battery box so as to put the spent battery on the battery box storage rack; then the battery box replacement device takes down a charged battery box from the battery box storage rack, rotates to the original position, and installs the battery box in the electric bus.

Abstract: A support and a process for a non-automotive vehicle to be lifted by a car lift and allow for servicing of the vehicle. The support can include a support surface that has an engine access opening and a rolling mechanism attached to the support surface that affords for the support surface to roll into a service area that has a car lift. The car lift can be a two-post car and the support spans the distance between lift arms of the car lift. Once the support with a vehicle thereon is lifted above a service area floor vehicle, the engine of the vehicle can be serviced through the engine access opening. In this manner, non-automotive vehicles can be easily and quickly serviced in traditional automotive service areas, shops, etc.

Abstract: An assembly for supporting machinery and a method for installing the same is disclosed. A frame module including: a base with at least one attachment location, the attachment location for receiving the machinery; and a plurality of frame members affixed to the base, wherein at least one of the frame members defines a plane corresponding to a wall. A foundation has first and second sections and is disposed around the frame module. A portion of the frame module is at least partially submerged within the foundation. The machinery has at least one flange for affixing the machinery to the foundation at the attachment location. The first section of the foundation is disposed below an outside surface of the base and the second section of the foundation defines the wall of the foundation.

Abstract: A device and method is disclosed for installing a turntable in a foundation. A foundation module having a base with a plurality of holes therein is used for installing the turntable. A first one of the plurality of holes is adapted to receive a foundation material there through for pouring a first section of the foundation and plurality of frame members are adapted to affix to the base. A form having an outer surface is adapted to secure to at least one of the plurality of frame members. The outer surface of the form is adapted retain a portion of the foundation material for pouring a second section of the foundation and the second section of the foundation defines a wall. Part of the turntable is adapted to rotate within the wall.

Abstract: A receiver embedded in and affixed to a foundation, the receiver is adapted to receive a turntable through an opening defined by the floor and walls of the receiver. The turntable is designed to rotate within the opening. The floor of the receiver has holes therein for bolts. The holes are located relative to center of the receiver and the foundation such that a turntable may be affixed to the bolts and rotate within the receiver and foundation. The receiver has a number of flanges both on the walls and on the floor to engage with the foundation. The foundation is created from two pour sections, a first pour for the floor of the foundation and a second pour for the walls of the foundation.

Abstract: An automated vehicle centering system for use with a transport mechanism in an automated parking facility comprising a rotatable platform for aligning a vehicle with a conveying direction of the transport mechanism; a plurality of weighing platforms on said rotatable platform for sensing a distribution of a weight of said vehicle on the tires of said vehicle; and a controller to calculate a center of weight for the tires based on said sensing and to determine a centerline of said vehicle.

Abstract: A turntable for a wrapping machine for rotating an article to be wrapped up, the turntable including a rotatable round cover plate comprising two grooves in parallel with each other and arranged at a distance from each other that corresponds to the distance between the forks of the lifting fork of a pallet truck, wherein the grooves extend from the edge of the cover plate on both sides of the diameter of the cover plate and in parallel to the diameter, and wherein the grooves are adapted to receive the forks of the lifting fork so that the article to be wrapped up can be conveyed by the pallet truck onto the cover plate to be supported by it, and respectively off the cover plate.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is a rotating structure. An outer ring is placed on a first surface of a trench in a foundation having a ground surface. An inner ring is positioned inside the outer ring on the first surface. A bar assembly is positioned between the outer ring and the inner ring. A plurality of rollers supports the bar assembly. A plurality of motors engages to the bar assembly to cause the bar assembly to rotate when activated.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is a rotating structure. An outer ring is placed on a first surface of a trench in a foundation having a ground surface. An inner ring is positioned inside the outer ring on the first surface. A bar assembly is positioned between the outer ring and the inner ring. A plurality of rollers supports the bar assembly. A plurality of motors engages to the bar assembly to cause the bar assembly to rotate when activated.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is a rotating structure. An outer ring is placed on a first surface of a trench in a foundation having a ground surface. An inner ring is positioned inside the outer ring on the first surface. A bar assembly is positioned between the outer ring and the inner ring. A plurality of rollers supports the bar assembly. A plurality of motors engages to the bar assembly to cause the bar assembly to rotate when activated.

Abstract: A turntable for a heavy object such as a car which includes a ground-engaging member and a load-supporting platform each having load surfaces facing each other, the load-supporting platform being supported off the ground-engaging member by an intermediate load transfer unit comprising a plurality of rotatable bearing elements distributed across an extended region of the load surfaces to allow rotation of the load-supporting platform with respect to the ground-engaging member.

Abstract: A motorcycle turntable includes an elongated ramp assembly pivotally supported for slidable rotation about an approximate mid-point. The elongated ramp assembly includes an outer low friction skid plate attached to its reverse side generally adjacent each of its opposed outer ends. The weight of a conventional motorcycle is sufficient to cause the elongated ramp assembly to flex so that its ends bend downwardly towards the floor. As the elongated ramp assembly with its drooping ends is rotated about its midpoint on a pedestal-bearing assembly, the low friction skid plates skid across the floor. Most of the weight is born by the pedestal-bearing assembly, which includes at least one low friction plate. The thickness of the skid plates and the flexibility of the structure are such as to allow the ends to droop into light contact with the floor. This permits slidable rotation to be accomplished.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus that enables a personal transportation vehicle, such a motorcycle, to turn up to 180 degrees around while remaining in a confined, compact space. The apparatus comprises a lightweight inner platform rotating inside a lightweight, fixed, outer platform and uses translated power from the personal transportation vehicle as a motive force to turn the vehicle.

Abstract: A low profile turntable device constructed of wedge shaped sections with structural foam in between, support rollers on the bottom skin, a plurality of reversible drive motors inside a plurality of outer ramps around the exterior, and a concentric circular and perpendicular lateral band system for mounting the turntable on a surface.

Abstract: A dual-vehicle turntable includes a subframe that incorporates a central pivot, a circular track and a rail cam; a generally circular carriage pivotably couplable to the central pivot and having a plurality of rollers angularly spaced around the periphery thereof that ride on the circular track; and a pair of linearly movable platforms mounted on the carriage, each of the platforms supporting a single vehicle and having a cam follower that tracks the rail cam. When the platforms are aligned with the opening of a garage, they are in a maximum spaced-apart relationship. However, when the carriage rotates, the platforms move towards each other, motivated by the action of the cam followers on the rail cam, thereby decreasing inter-vehicle distance and the lateral space required for the rotation of the vehicles. The platforms return to their original spacing as the carriage completes 180 degrees of rotation.

Abstract: A moving platform system with a base firmly anchored to a supporting surface and an upright structural member extending therefrom. A bifurcated arms assembly is mounted to the distal end of the structural member supporting a cross bar assembly. The bifurcated arms assembly includes two outwardly extending arms that support two of the four legs of the cross bar assembly. The other two legs support the platform that in turn supports the object being displayed or used as an entertainment structure. An electric motor is used to provide rotational movement to two wheels of different diameters. The wheels are pivotally connected to linkage arms at an offcentered position that provide the reciprocating sinusoidal movement to the platform with different frequency characteristics.

Abstract: A rotatable support assembly formed of pivotable sections has upper and lower surfaces and tapered end edges. A riding strip fabricated of an elastomeric material extends over the upper surface from tapered end edge to tapered end edge. A carousel assembly includes a fixed lower section, a rotatable upper section, and equally spaced rollers between the upper and lower sections. A locking assembly includes wells formed into the upper surface. A circular plate has an upper aperture and a locking tab with a lower aperture. The locking assembly also includes a pin extending through the upper and lower apertures. A coil spring between the apertures urges the pin downwardly into a locked orientation to preclude rotation of the support assembly.

Abstract: A turntable for a heavy object such as a car which includes a ground-engaging member and a load-supporting platform each having load surfaces facing each other, the load-supporting platform being supported off the ground-engaging member by an intermediate load transfer unit comprising a plurality of rotatable bearing elements distributed across an extended region of the load surfaces to allow rotation of the load-supporting platform with respect to the ground-engaging member.

Abstract: An equipment turnaround easily installs on a driveway or garage floor surface. The turnaround has a large support platform compared to the equipment footprint providing ease of loading or unloading the equipment. The turnaround is fastened to the surface by fasteners that allow the turnaround to rotate about the centerline of the drive mechanism surface contact plate. This changes the direction the equipment is facing, allowing equipment to be parked in a narrow space without having to back the equipment out of the space. Alternately the turnaround may be used for a rotatable equipment display. The turnaround may be turned manually or use a self-contained power supply.

Abstract: A barrier system for use with a trafficable surface that penetrates a boundary to control access by vehicles and to permit uncontrolled access by pedestrians. The system includes a turntable providing a surface that is rotatable generally in the plane of the trafficable surface. Impact elements are arranged along the surface in a pattern having a spacing configured to permit passage by pedestrians and to prevent passage of vehicles when the turntable is in a first position and to permit passage of vehicles when the turntable is rotated to a second position. The system controls vehicle traffic across the boundary by moving the turntable between the first position and the second position.

Abstract: A turntable for production line applications is provided which is suitable for large surface area applications, such as, for example, in the production of automobiles. The turntable has an annular platform surface around a central vertical structure which houses a vertically orientated drive motor. The platform is preferably supported at its outer edge by a series of rollers or casters, and is supported at its inner edge by a ring bearing. By providing a vertically orientated motor in the central structure, more useable space on the turntable is provided. In addition, the turntable is more easily maintained, and is less prone to accidental damage. As such, a turntable of improved overall efficiency is provided.

Abstract: A low profile turntable device for parking or maneuvering vehicles or heavy items in confined spaces constructed of two skins with structural foam in between, support rollers on the bottom skin, stops on the bottom skin to stabilize the turntable during loading, a reversible drive mechanism, and a ramp around the exterior so it does not have to be installed below grade level.

Abstract: A turntable for production line applications is provided which is suitable for large surface area applications, such as, for example, in the production of automobiles. The turntable has an annular platform surface around a central vertical structure which houses a vertically orientated drive motor. The platform is preferably supported at its outer edge by a series of rollers or casters, and is supported at its inner edge by a ring bearing. By providing a vertically orientated motor in the central structure, more useable space on the turntable is provided. In addition, the turntable is more easily maintained, and is less prone to accidental damage. As such, a turntable of improved overall efficiency is provided.

Abstract: The invention provides a vehicular carousel comprising a base structure defining an interior volume and a plate cutout, a support member arranged in the interior volume, a series of rolling members supported by the support member, and a platform supported in the plate cutout by the series of rolling members, wherein the vehicular carousel is configured to support and rotate a vehicle, such as a motorcycle.

Abstract: A carousel device for pivotally moving a two-wheeled vehicle includes a base with a plurality of roller bearings and a carousel having a pair of opposing wings which are operatively positioned on the base.

Abstract: A merchandising and/or display system for displaying objects such as vehicles is disclosed. The merchandising system may include a base and a member coupled to the base, configured to support the vehicle and to move between a first and second position. The first position is configured to allow placement of the vehicle on the member and the second position is configured to display the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle cargo loading and unloading system for rotating a vehicle in an area where there is a limited amount of space in which to maneuver. The vehicle cargo loading and unloading system includes a vehicle support platform for supporting the vehicle to be turned. The vehicle support platform includes an upper surface, a lower surface and a peripheral edge extending between the upper and lower surfaces. A plurality of rolling assemblies is provided for rotatably turning the vehicle supporting platform. Each of the rolling assemblies is movably mounted to the lower surface of the vehicle supporting platform. A supporting shaft is provided for supporting the vehicle supporting platform. The supporting shaft includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is mounted to a central point of the vehicle supporting platform. A gear is mounted to a portion of the supporting shaft and is operationally coupled to a motor used for turning the shaft.

Abstract: A support structure including a turntable, support platform, and a set of ramps. The ramps and support platform provide support for a vehicle such as a motorcycle, snowmobile, or the like. The entire apparatus swivels by means of the turntable at 360°, and the apparatus also has a set of retractable wheels which enable the apparatus to be rolled across a horizontal surface.

Abstract: The present invention describes an improved skeletal frame for a revolving vehicle platform turntable. The improved device is used to support a vehicle turntable and easily installed in any location. The skeletal frame includes a cylindrical circular tubular body made of 2 semicircular sections, a main frame structure including web arms are connected to both sides of the cylindrical circular tubular body, a roller chain pulley sprocket assembly is attached to the center cross section of the main structure frame for driving the skeletal frame. It is preferably installed below ground level so that the upper level of the turntable is level with the ground. Another improved component of this invention is the absence of welded parts.

Abstract: An improved turntable is provided for use in a building, such as in a residential or office environment, wherein the turntable is constructed from an assembly of modular components for facilitated installation within a relatively low profile space. The turntable comprises a plurality of modular, generally pie-shaped panel units of a lightweight skeletal frame construction. The panel units are joined along radial lines of separation by a plurality of wheel units each including a wheel bracket connected to the adjacent pair of panel units, and a pair of elevationally adjustable wheels for shared distribution of loads applied to the panel units. The wheels may in turn be positioned to ride upon an elevationally adjustable track. A traction drive surface is formed on the periphery of the assembled turntable in a position engaged by a drive roller of a low profile drive unit.

Abstract: An assembly line fixture includes an elevator having a mounting surface, and a turntable mounted on the mounting surface and rotatable about an axis of rotation with respect to the mounting surface. Also mounted on the mounting surface are a detent mechanism, a locking mechanism, and a clamping mechanism. The detent mechanism includes a roller that is spring biased against the turntable, and that is operable to resist rotation of the turntable at preselected angular positions. The locking mechanism includes a lever, a locking member, and a biasing member. The locking member engages notches in the turntable to prevent the turntable from rotating. The lever actuates the locking member and the biasing member biases the locking member toward the notches for engagement therewith. The clamping mechanism includes at least one clamp that is adapted to engage a portion of an apparatus.

Abstract: A storage structure has an entry chamber for receiving articles, a storage area for storing the articles, a lift passage for connecting the entry chamber and the storage area, and a lift for conveying the articles through the lift passage between the entry chamber and the storage area. The storage structure includes a turning chamber provided separately from the entry chamber and connected to the lift passage for changing the orientation of an article. A turntable device is supported in the turning chamber to receive an article from the lift within the lift passage and to transfer an article to the lift. The turntable device includes a rotatable carrying surface and two auxiliary supports. One auxiliary support is located on each of two opposite sides of the turntable device for supporting the carrying surface when the carrying surface rotates. The carrying surface is movable between a position within the lift passage and a position outside of the lift passage.