Abstract: A sequencing system and a robotic storage and picking system include a plurality of containers disposed in stacks beneath a grid having a first set of tracks and second set of tracks, the first and second sets of tracks being disposed substantially perpendicular to each other. Plural load handling devices are operable on the grid, the load handling devices lifting and depositing containers from and to the stacks. The load handling devices can deposit containers on to conveyor belts into predetermined positions, the positions being fillable in any random order and multiple positions being fillable at any one time.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for forming a predetermined three-dimensional (3D) object, in particular to an apparatus and method for making of a predetermined 3D object including an outer finished show surface without the use of post processing steps, and selectively printing three-dimension features onto another surface without compromising the integrity of the outer finished surface quality. A build platform of the apparatus includes a smooth surface to disperse deposited materials into a highly uniform base layer with exceptional surface quality on the interface between the deposited material and the build platform. The apparatus and process have the ability to produce an exceptionally smooth surface capable of achieving automotive standards for exterior components without the use of post-processing.

Abstract: A storage system is described where goods are stored in containers and the containers are stored in stacks. Above the stacks runs a grid network of tracks on which load handling devices run. The load handling devices take containers from the stacks and deposit then at alternative locations in the stacks or deposit then at stations where goods may be picked out. The framework may be provided with one or more of the following services: power, power control, heating, lighting, cooling, sensing, and data logging. A method of partitioning the storage system prevents the spread of fire or prevent damage caused by sprinkler activation.

Abstract: A sequencing system and a robotic storage and picking system include a plurality of containers disposed in stacks beneath a grid having a first set of tracks and second set of tracks, the first and second sets of tracks being disposed substantially perpendicular to each other. Plural load handling devices are operable on the grid, the load handling devices lifting and depositing containers from and to the stacks. The load handling devices can deposit containers on to conveyor belts into predetermined positions, the positions being fillable in any random order and multiple positions being fillable at any one time.

Abstract: A system and method of order fulfilment is described. The system includes a storage and retrieval system, a transfer system and at least one pick station. The transfer system includes conveyance means disposed between the storage and retrieval system and the pick station such that items delivered to the transfer system from the storage and retrieval system may be conveyed to the pick stations independently of the normal operation of the pick station.

Abstract: A process for molding a hollow structure comprising the steps of: a. Forming a mandrel in a shape of a proposed cavity from a water-soluble substance capable of withstanding temperatures and pressures from a predetermined compression molding process; b. Positioning the mandrel in a suitable mold for forming an article which includes the mandrel within the article; and, c. Removing the mandrel by loosening and dissolving the mandrel with a water solution, thereby creating a cavity in the article.

Abstract: A storage system is described where goods are stored in containers and the containers are stored in stacks. Above the stacks runs a grid network of tracks on which load handling devices run. The load handling devices take containers from the stacks and deposit then at alternative locations in the stacks or deposit then at stations where goods may be picked out. The framework may be provided with one or more of the following services: power, power control, heating, lighting, cooling, sensing, and data logging. A method of partitioning the storage system prevents the spread of fire or prevent damage caused by sprinkler activation.

Abstract: A secured container is can be configured to accept deliveries of goods, parcels or other items ordered by a user. The container is secured such that a delivery may be made whist the delivery location is unattended whilst ensuring the delivery is safe. The secured container may be accessed by autonomous vehicles such as drones or quadcopters or other flying platforms.

Abstract: The present invention relates to containers which can be stacked one on top of another whilst still permitting easy access to the contents of any container within the stack without the need for de-stacking. The contents of the containers remain secured within the container.

Abstract: A mechanised container for use in a robotic storage and picking system is described. The container includes a base openable to deposit at least one item from the container in to a further container positioned by a load handling device beneath the first container. Each item can be stored in such mechanised containers in stacks within a robotic storage and picking system.

Abstract: The present invention relates to containers which can be stacked one on top of another whilst still permitting easy access to the contents of any container within the stack without the need for de-stacking. The contents of the containers remain secured within the container.

Abstract: A system and method for robotic container storage, handling, and transfer system and method includes a grid structure formed of two substantially perpendicular sets of rails above a portion of at least one transport network, a robotic load handling device operating on the grid structure, a vehicle means located on the at least one transport network below the grid structure configured to receive a container, the robotic load handling device being provided with an engaging means for engaging the container and a lifting means configured for lifting the container from the vehicle means for movement to an alternative location, wherein one or more portions of the rails above the vehicle means of the transport network are missing in a direction transverse to a direction of the transport network forming one or more open grid spaces enabling alignment of the robotic load handling device above the vehicle means.

Abstract: A system and method for picking items from storage containers located in stacks within a grid-based storage system are described. The system can include a movable structural member, movable from a first position to a second position such that when in the second position it is possible for an operative to access at least one row of storage containers such that items can be manually picked therefrom.

Abstract: A robotic service device for a robotic picking system grid. The robotic service device can be configured for driving to any location on the grid in order to restart malfunctioning robotic load handling devices or to perform maintenance operations or cleaning in situ. Additionally, the service device may be used to rescue robotic load handling devices operational in the picking system. The robotic service device can include a releasable docking mechanism to enable it to dock and latch on to malfunctioning load handling devices. A deployable, releasable electrical connecting device is shaped to conform to a charging, powering, or battery component of one or more of the load handling devices.

Abstract: Systems and methods involving one or more wearable components that obtain information about a surrounding environment and provide information to a user to assist user in retrieving objects from the surrounding environment. The information may include navigation information related to a route that the user may take to retrieve an object, as well as information about the object to be retrieved. The wearable components may be include ones that may be mounted on the head of the user, as well as components that the user may wear on other parts of the body or that attach to clothing The wearable components may include image sensors, microphones, machine-readable symbol readers, range-finders, accelerometers, and/or gyroscopes that may collect information from and about the surroundings of the user. The wearable components may also include one or more of a set of speakers and/or a display subsystem to provide information to the user.

Abstract: A mechanised container for use in a robotic storage and picking system is described. The container includes a base openable to deposit at least one item from the container in to a further container positioned by a load handling device beneath the first container. Each item can be stored in such mechanised containers in stacks within a robotic storage and picking system.

Abstract: A system for picking items from a containerised storage system is described. The items are stored in storage bins in stacks within a framework comprising a grid system disposed above the stacks of bins. Robotic devices are disposed on the grid, the devices acting so as to pick containers from the stacks of bins. The storage system is provided with at least one picking device for picking items from bins and depositing them directly in delivery containers DT.

Abstract: A storage system is described where goods are stored in containers and the containers are stored in stacks. Above the stacks runs a grid network of tracks on which load handling devices run to lift containers from the stacks and deposit them at alternative locations in the stacks or at stations where goods may be removed or alternative functions may be undertaken. The containers can provide the following exemplary services: power, power control, heating, lighting, cooling, sensing, and data logging. The provision of these services within individual containers rather than across the system as a whole, allows for flexibility in storage whilst reducing cost and inefficiency. The containers when removed from the stacks are electrically connected to the load handling device, power being supplied by a power supply within the load handling device.

Abstract: A robotic cargo handling system and method provides an interchange for moving shipping containers and semi-trailers between trains, between train and road vehicles and between road vehicles. The interchange includes a structure located above a series of railway tracks forming part of a rail network and a series of roads forming part of a road network. Tracks supported by the structure form a grid-like pattern above the transport network tracks and roads. Robotic load handlers operable on the tracks or rails of the grid structure pick up containers from beneath the structure and move the containers to alternative locations-by moving the containers between vehicles located beneath the structure.

Abstract: A system and method for picking items is disclosed. The system includes a grid-based storage area and an order assembly area. The system includes an array of presentation positions, the presentation positions being configured and adapted so as to present storage containers delivered to the presentation positions so as to enable picking of items contained therein.