Abstract: An automated system for storing and retrieving objects from multiple object categories. A plurality of storage rack assemblies is included. Each storage rack assembly has a plurality of slots sized for storing objects. A storage transport is movable alongside each respective storage rack assembly for positioning adjacent any slot. A plurality of horizontal tracks are arranged to be perpendicular to the storage rack assemblies. Each storage rack assembly has an end adjacent the tracks. A runner transport is coupled to and movable on each track for receiving one of the objects from, or providing one of the objects to a storage transport. Two conveyor rack assemblies are located at opposite ends of the tracks, aligned perpendicularly to the track. Conveyor transports are adjacent the conveyor rack assemblies for transferring objects between the conveyor rack assembly and the runner transports.

Abstract: An alarm system suitable for use in a telecommunications network in which a central switching system is capable of selectively providing a signal of a predetermined polarity to a plurality of remotely located stations without being dependent upon or impeding the ability of the central switching system to process relatively high volume communications traffic. Each of the remote stations is connected to the telecommunications network by an electrical conduction path. The stations are substantially unresponsive to the predetermined polarity signal. In response to an alarm indication signal, the system effects a reversal in the polarity of the signal provided to a selected subset of the remote stations. Each station in the selected subset responds to the polarity reversal by indicating an alarm condition.

Abstract: Switches of telephone grids are tested for delayed action subsequent to, but within a number of milliseconds after, actuating the opening or closing of the switches. Excessive delay indicates approaching failure.

Abstract: Multiple electrical path assembly as in a telephone grid, is rapidly and accurately checked by grounding one end of all but one of the path conductors, applying a test signal to that one end, detecting the presence or absence of signal on both ends of all conductors, and repeating the procedure for all the conductors, as with a computer containing a microprocessor. Where the conductors are individually switched, they can all be switched on beforehand. Detectors can also be connected to the conductors during the testing, to detect unusually high voltages, and testing can be interrupted when such voltages are detected. Switch actuation can be separately tested by detecting the passage of current that is used to actuate them.

Abstract: Multiple electrical path assembly as in a telephone grid, is rapidly and accurately checked by grounding one end of all but one of the path conductors, applying a test signal to that one end, detecting the presence or absence of signal on both ends of all conductors, and repeating the procedure for all the conductors, as with a computer containing a microprocessor. Where the conductors are individually switched, they can all be switched on beforehand. Detectors can also be connected to the conductors during the testing, to detect unusually high voltages, and testing can be interrupted when such voltages are detected. Switch actuation can be separately tested by detecting the passage of current that is used to actuate them.