Abstract: A mobile fulfillment device, system, and method for retrieving at least one article stored in one of a plurality of predetermined storage locations are disclosed. The device, system and method includes a wireless transceiver for communicating with a remote system controller, including transmission of at least one instruction from the remote system controller to provide instruction to the control system, a retriever for retrieving the at least one article in response to instruction received from the control system, a sensor for detecting inventory levels of articles in at least one predetermined storage location, a mobile frame supporting the fulfillment device and at least three wheels coupled to the mobile frame and providing mobility to the fulfillment device based on at least one of the at least three wheels being a lockable wheel.

Abstract: A mobile fulfillment device, system, and method for retrieving at least one article stored in one of a plurality of predetermined storage locations are disclosed. The device, system and method includes a wireless transceiver for communicating with a remote system controller, including transmission of at least one instruction from the remote system controller to provide instruction to the control system, a retriever for retrieving the at least one article in response to instruction received from the control system, a sensor for detecting inventory levels of articles in at least one predetermined storage location, a mobile frame supporting the fulfillment device and at least three wheels coupled to the mobile frame and providing mobility to the fulfillment device based on at least one of the at least three wheels being a lockable wheel.

Abstract: A low profile cart and conveyance system is disclosed. The cart includes a frame with a longitudinal axis that extends from its front to back. A plurality of wheels are mounted so as to permit movement of the cart in a direction generally along the longitudinal axis. A plurality of rollers are mounted between at least two crossbars such that the rollers' axes of rotation are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. The cart is preferably used as part of a conveyance system. The system also includes an ejection mechanism which is mounted at a removal station. The ejection mechanism includes a pusher assembly and a housing. The pusher assembly is adapted to extend toward the cart and push items that are on the cart along the rollers.

Abstract: A system for adjusting the position of a load supported on a conveyor cart includes a driven lift mechanism for controlling height and a turntable for controlling rotational orientation. The cart may, alternately or in addition to the above mechanisms, include a gimbal mechanism for rotational adjustment about multiple axes. A processor on the cart provides actuation and control of the mechanisms. An ID card reader on the cart senses ID tags for determining when the cart is adjacent particular locations. Data representing desired load position at the locations is stored either in a memory device or by the ID tag for relay to the processor on the cart via the ID tag reader. A system level controller provides a centralized storage location for desired load position data for communication to a plurality of conveyor carts through a communication link that includes radio frequency modems.

Abstract: A narrow belt conveyor system including a plurality of narrow, continuous, spaced-apart belts adapted to receive an accessory such as a sorter, accumulator, diverter, and/or transfer between the belts. The conveyor system includes a pair of side frame members, each with an elongated track that slidingly receives the accessory so that it can be readily moved to selected locations along the length of the conveyor. A belt tensioning mechanism provides for independent tensioning of the conveyor belts. A belt guide track with a low friction insert supports the loaded belt, while the guide rollers engage the edges of the belts along their return runs.

Abstract: A narrow belt conveyor system including a plurality of narrow, continuous, spaced-apart belts adapted to receive an accessory such as a sorter, accumulator, diverter, and/or transfer between the belts. The conveyor system includes a pair of side frame members, each with an elongated track that slidingly receives the accessory so that it can be readily moved to selected locations along the length of the conveyor. A belt tensioning mechanism provides for independent tensioning of the conveyor belts. A belt guide track with a low friction insert supports the loaded belt, while the guide rollers engage the edges of the belts along their return runs.