Abstract: A load handling device is disclosed for lifting and moving containers stacked in a storage system having a grid framework structure supporting a pathway arranged in a grid pattern above the stacks of containers. The load handling device includes a vehicle body housing a driving mechanism, the driving mechanism being powered by a rechargeable power source electrically coupled to an electrical charge point for electrically coupling with a charge head of a charge station; and a lifting device having a lifting drive assembly and a grabber device, wherein the lifting device includes the electrical charge point such that charging of the rechargeable power source occurs by the lifting device engaging with the charge head.

Abstract: A method and load-handling device for lifting and moving containers are disclosed, the load-handling device including: a body having an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion being configured to house one or more operation components, the lower portion being arranged beneath the upper portion, the lower portion including a container-receiving space for accommodating at least part of a container; and a container-lifting mechanism including a container-gripping assembly configured to releasably grip a container and a raising and lowering assembly configured to raise and lower the container-gripping assembly, wherein the raising and lowering assembly including a single motor configured to raise and lower the container-gripping assembly.

Abstract: The present disclosure aims to provide a charge unit for a robotic load handling device which reduces the wear/damage experienced by charge contacts of the charge unit and provides a solution whereby easier servicing of the charge unit can be accomplished. A charge unit for a robotic load handling device is operative on top of a grid framework. The charge unit includes a plurality of profiled sections arranged to interface with a hoist element of the robotic load handling device, and a power transfer device is arranged to transfer power to the robotic load handling device.