Abstract: Techniques for performing automated device activation and managing access to a workspace are described herein. While operating in an activated state, a user device (e.g., a wearable device) may be configured to modify movements of various mobile components (e.g., mobile drive units, robotic arms, etc.) of the workspace by emitting signals that cause the mobile components to stop or reduce speed when in proximity of the user device. An access controller device (ACD) may be used to restrict and/or allow access to the workspace and to perform operations for activating a user device that is attempting access. The ACD may receive light emissions from the user device that may be used to initiate a process for activating the user device. When the ACD receives an indication that the user device is operating in the activated state, the ACD may execute operations for enabling access to the workspace.

Abstract: A sensor-based item transport system, and a method therefore are described. The system includes, for example, a cart station, within a restricted area including a plurality of automated drive. A light curtain is adjacent to the cart station. A first sensor and a second sensor are spaced apart from the first sensor within the cart station. A first mode associated with the light curtain is maintained causing an alarm system associated with the light curtain to remain armed. The first mode is caused to change to a second mode associated with the light curtain, the second mode causing the alarm system to be muted, based at least in part on the identity of the cart. The identity is determined based at least in part on one or more signals received from the first sensor and the second sensor.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided herein for coordinating movement of components of a workspace utilizing a controller device. The controller device may operate in a first state. The computing device may be associated with an interaction area having a first access point and a second access point, wherein a light curtain is generated at the first access point. While operating in the first state, access to the interaction area is restricted. The computing device may transition to operating in a second state based at least in part on detecting the first breach, wherein operating in the second state comprises enabling access to the interaction area at the second access point. While operating in the second state, a second breach of the light curtain may be detected and at least one remedial action performed based on the detection.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided herein for utilizing controller device within a workspace. The controller device may operate in a first state to monitor a light curtain associated with an interaction area of the workspace and to cause an indication of the first state to be presented at an indicator device associated with the interaction area. While operating in the first state, the controller device may detect a breach of the light curtain. The controller device may perform at least one remedial action based at least in part on detecting the breach of the light curtain while operating in the first state.

Abstract: Techniques for managing device interaction between components of an inventory management system are described herein. User input associated with an operational state of the user device may be received at the user device and the user device may begin operating in a particular operational state. While operating in this state, the user device may transmit a wireless signal having a predetermined frequency. A mobile drive unit of the system, upon receipt of the wireless signal, may slow or stop. Operational state information may be transmitted to other components of the inventory management system indicating that the wireless signal is being transmitted and/or that the user device is operating in a particular operational state and a fault detection process may commence. The user device may provide an indication (e.g., via visual, audible, and/or haptic feedback devices) that the user device is operating in the particular operational state.