Abstract: A system for the so-called "cube" storage and retrieval of a large number of items, such as loaded pallets, employs a frame providing a plurality of parallel storage paths arranged in one-upon-the-other rows and side-by-side tiers. Each path provides a plurality of stations each able to store an item, and is provided with a motor-operated reciprocating advancing member which extends substantially the full length of the path. The advancing member carries for each station a driving advancing apparatus engagable with the item therein to move it to the next successive station as the member moves; it also carries a detector apparatus, which may be constituted by the respective driving apparatus, to detect the presence of an item at a station and prevent the feeding of an item to an already occupied station. The entry and delivery ends of each path are provided with respective detectors to control movement of the advancing member to ensure that the delivering station is always occupied.

Abstract: The invention provides an advancing member for use in a system for the so-called "cube" storage and retrieval of a large number of items, such as loaded pallets. Such a system employs a frame providing a plurality of parallel storage paths arranged in one-upon-the-other rows and side-by-side tiers. Each path provides a plurality of stations each able to store an item, and is provided with a respective advancing member which is motor-operated and extends substantially the full length of the path, the motor reciprocating the member back-and-forth. The advancing member carries for each station a pendulous lockable driving advancing means engagable with the item therein to move it to the next successive station as the member moves; it also carries a similar detector means, which may be constituted by the respective driving means, to detect the presence of an item at a station and unlock the preceding driving means so as to prevent the feeding of an item to an already occupied station.