Abstract: An automated distribution system includes sources storing loads, at least one destination, a control system, a first common transport system for transporting the loads leaving the sources and, downstream of the first common transport system and upstream of and associated with each destination, at least one plurality of first FIFO buffer devices, each dual to one of the sources. To process a command, the control system performs a first ordering, by instructing each source that the loads listed in the command should exit the source in a desired order; then a second ordering: by steering each of the loads of the command, exiting the first common transport system to the first buffer device associated with the desired destination dual to the given source; and by instructing the first buffer devices associated with the desired destination such that the loads exit towards the destination in the desired order.

Abstract: An automated distribution system includes sources storing loads, at least one destination, a control system, a first common transport system for transporting the loads leaving the sources and, downstream of the first common transport system and upstream of and associated with each destination, at least one plurality of first FIFO buffer devices, each dual to one of the sources. To process a command, the control system performs a first ordering, by instructing each source that the loads listed in the command should exit the source in a desired order; then a second ordering: by steering each of the loads of the command, exiting the first common transport system to the first buffer device associated with the desired destination dual to the given source; and by instructing the first buffer devices associated with the desired destination such that the loads exit towards the destination in the desired order.