Abstract: A clamping apparatus, or dock, which is configured to receive a loading frame when the loading frame is being loaded with containers by an automatic frame loading system. The clamping apparatus includes a first arm and a second arm, with an engagement apparatus received between the two arm. The engagement apparatus may be activated to engage with an inserted loading frame.

Abstract: A device for manipulating containers or totes is configured to: receive a container from a spur of a semi-automated or automated storage and retrieval system and a first position; move the container to a second position, which corresponds to a predetermined location relative to a loading frame; and to move the container into a first destination location within the loading frame. Optionally, the container may then be moved to a second destination within the loading frame.

Abstract: System for handling containers and a method for supplying inventory items to a fulfilment station in a warehouse or in any other location where fulfilment of orders or delivery of orders, for example grocery orders, is taking place. The system includes at least one mobile inventory carrier for storing containers, a mini load system including a gripping mechanism for picking up or releasing a container from the mobile inventory carrier and autonomous mobile robotic units, wherein the mini load system, the mobile inventory carrier and the autonomous mobile robotic unit(s) are distinct units and operate independently from each other.

Abstract: A method for delivering online orders to customers via a fully unmanned system includes replenishing the pod by using inventory carriers carrying containers via a replenishment hatch, moving an inventory carrier attached to carrier base with a mobile robotic unit in a room of adequate temperature. Additionally, the method includes transferring an inventory carrier at a mini load station and loading the order containers on a delivery carrier. The method further includes transferring a delivery carrier and attaching it to a delivery hatch so that the customer, following authentication, is able to pull the drawers and pick the ordered items.

Abstract: A method for delivering online orders to customers via a fully unmanned system includes replenishing the pod by using inventory carriers carrying containers via a replenishment hatch, moving an inventory carrier attached to carrier base with a mobile robotic unit in a room of adequate temperature. Additionally, the method includes transferring an inventory carrier at a mini load station and loading the order containers on a delivery carrier. The method further includes transferring a delivery carrier and attaching it to a delivery hatch so that the customer, following authentication, is able to pull the drawers and pick the ordered items.

Abstract: A method for delivering online orders to customers via a fully unmanned system includes replenishing the pod by using inventory carriers carrying containers via a replenishment hatch, moving an inventory carrier attached to carrier base with a mobile robotic unit in a room of adequate temperature. Additionally, the method includes transferring an inventory carrier at a mini load station and loading the order containers on a delivery carrier. The method further includes transferring a delivery carrier and attaching it to a delivery hatch so that the customer, following authentication, is able to pull the drawers and pick the ordered items.

Abstract: A method for managing inventory carriers using mobile robotic units (MRUs) in a pod that is configured to receive online orders at a replenishment station for pickup by customers at a delivery station includes receiving, by an MRU, instructions that identify a first inventory carrier, moving the MRU to a location of the identified inventory carrier, and using the MRU to transport the identified inventory carrier to the replenishment station for pickup by a delivery vehicle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling an inventory carrier for replenishing a pod used for delivery of online orders includes displaying, using at least one of said at least one processor, at least one replenishment procedure option to a user, receiving, using at least one of said at least one processor, a selection of one of the at least one replenishment procedure from the user, and controlling, using at least one of said at least one processor, movement of the inventory carrier based on the received selection.

Abstract: A method for delivering online orders to customers via a fully unmanned system includes replenishing the pod by using inventory carriers carrying containers via a replenishment hatch, moving an inventory carrier attached to carrier base with a mobile robotic unit in a room of adequate temperature. Additionally, the method includes transferring an inventory carrier at a mini load station and loading the order containers on a delivery carrier. The method further includes transferring a delivery carrier and attaching it to a delivery hatch so that the customer, following authentication, is able to pull the drawers and pick the ordered items.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling an inventory carrier for replenishing a pod used for delivery of online orders includes displaying, using at least one of said at least one processor, at least one replenishment procedure option to a user, receiving, using at least one of said at least one processor, a selection of one of the at least one replenishment procedure from the user, and controlling, using at least one of said at least one processor, movement of the inventory carrier based on the received selection.

Abstract: A method for managing inventory carriers using mobile robotic units (MRUs) in a pod that is configured to receive online orders at a replenishment station for pickup by customers at a delivery station includes receiving, by an MRU, instructions that identify a first inventory carrier, moving the MRU to a location of the identified inventory carrier, and using the MRU to transport the identified inventory carrier to the replenishment station for pickup by a delivery vehicle.