Abstract: A warehouse management system includes a controller provided with a storage unit which stores order information that associates items, numbers, and delivery destinations of articles, a warehousing priority calculation unit that determines warehousing priorities of a plurality of items of articles based on the items and quantities of the articles to be delivered to respective delivery destinations, as specified from the order information, and a warehousing instruction unit that outputs an instruction to store the articles based on the warehousing priorities.

Abstract: In a container treatment device, retaining-and-centering units hold a container as it traverses a transport path that passes through a set of treatment stations, each having a rotor that propels a retaining-and-centering unit along the transport path. Sometimes, a retaining-and-centering unit becomes defective and must be removed from the transport path. A storage-and-replacement device receives a defective retaining-and-centering unit that is removed from the transport path and supplies a replacement. This occurs with no interruption of operation.

Abstract: A workpiece handling apparatus is configured to supply and discharge a workpiece to and from a first conveyor configured to convey the workpiece. The workpiece handling apparatus includes a storage, a conveyance device, and a workpiece transfer robot. In the storage, a case for the workpiece is storable. The conveyance device is configured to convey the case between the storage and a predetermined work position. The workpiece transfer robot is configured to transfer the workpiece between the case conveyed to the work position and the first conveyor.

Abstract: A station (2) for trays filled with rod-like articles (R), in a tobacco industry apparatus, provided with a receiving part (2A) to receive filled trays (3, 13); and a storage and conveying unit (2C) containing the filled trays (3, 13), provided with a conveyor (4) to convey the filled trays (3, 13) and a tray separation mechanism (4A) to separate the first tray (3?, 13?) from other trays (3, 13) collected on bearing elements (4D) of the conveyor (4), whereas the tray separation mechanism (4A) is provided with lifting elements (51, 51?, 63, 63?) adapted to lift the trays (3, 13) from the bearing elements (4D) of the conveyor (4); characterised in that further the station (2) is provided with lateral belts (56, 56?) adapted to support the sidewalls (3L, 3R, 13L, 13R) of the tray (3, 13), whereas the lateral belts (56, 56?) are adapted to perform a movement corresponding to the movement of the lifting elements (51, 51?, 63, 63?) when lifting the trays (3, 13) from the bearing elements (4D) and putting the trays

Abstract: An apparatus is provided for transferring at least one sausage link into a packaging item. The apparatus includes at least one drivable, rotatable conveyor device having at least one protruding vane, with the conveyor device being adapted and configured in such a way that the at least one sausage link can be placed on the vane in a receiving position, and that by rotating the conveyor device, the at least one sausage link can be placed onto or into the packaging item by the vane in a delivery position. The conveyor device may further include an impeller that forms, in part, a horizontal support surface for a group of sausage links.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical storage and retrieval device and a method of accessing and loading the device. The device includes a housing, at least one port with controlled access to inventory stored within the device, a robotic transfer mechanism for moving inventory items to and from the controlled port, software for tracking the inventory and users of the device, and an interface with the pharmacy software system to track and monitor which inventory is authorized for access by each user and which inventory is needed to fill a prescription.

Abstract: A method for the automated dispensing of medication portions is disclosed. Medication packs are automatically retrieved by a control unit from an automated storage facility, and medication portions are automatically removed from the packs and dispensed into a dispensing pack. A determination is made as to whether any medication portions are remaining within the retrieved medication packs, and those medication packs having remaining medication portions are returned to the automated storage facility by the control unit.

Abstract: An electronic packaging box includes a receiving structure, a transmissive/reflective component, and a support structure. The receiving structure is configured to receive an electronic display device having a display screen for displaying an image by the electronic display device. The transmissive/reflective component is spatially coupled to the receiving structure such that, when the electronic display device is placed into the receiving structure, the display screen of the electronic display device faces the transmissive/reflective component. The support structure is configured to support the receiving structure and the transmissive/reflective component. Further, the transmissive/reflective component is configured to form a virtual image of the image displayed by the electronic display device placed in the receiving structure when viewed by a viewer at a viewing angle.

Abstract: A method for the automated dispensing of medication portions is disclosed. Medication packs are automatically retrieved by a control unit from an automated storage facility, and medication portions are automatically removed from the packs and dispensed into a dispensing pack. A determination is made as to whether any medication portions are remaining within the retrieved medication packs, and those medication packs having remaining medication portions are returned to the automated storage facility by the control unit.

Abstract: An order fulfillment system and method uses a robotic arm having an end effector for grasping an object. An arcuate structure is moveable within reach of the robotic arm. A conveyor system brings inventory to the arcuate structure and takes a container that holds picked inventory away from the arcuate structure. A control system fulfills an order by directing the conveyor system to bring inventory to the arcuate structure, positioning the inventory on the arcuate structure relative to the robotic arm, determining a selected inventory item for an order, commanding the robotic arm to move the selected inventory item from a pick location of the selected inventory item to a container location for the order, and directing the conveyor system to take the container from the arcuate structure.

Abstract: A storage device for a filling line for intermediately storing runners that are configured to accommodate containers includes a buffer stream configured to receive the runners with a variable intermediate storage capacity of the runners. An introduction device is configured to introduce the runners, independently of each other, from a storage area into the buffer stream.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for controlling an apparatus for furnishing articles is disclosed. A conveyor unit is used to convey the articles. At least one exchangeable furnishing unit is designed to exchange identification data and/or control information during connection to the apparatus with the apparatus and/or with the conveyor unit. At least one storage area is provided, wherein the storage area stores at least two furnishing units. An automatically controlled feeding and withdrawing unit is used to operatively connect the storage area with the apparatus.

Abstract: A storage and retrieval system includes a casing having an interior storage area and a staging area, a plurality of containers positioned in the interior storage area, and a gantry assembly positioned within the casing. The gantry assembly is operable to move each of the plurality of containers between the interior storage area and the staging area. The staging area simultaneously receives and supports more than one container to allow access to the more than one container.

Abstract: A cargo container for storing goods and for loading into a cargo compartment of a vehicle includes a housing including a base plate and defining an interior cavity, a storage rack arrangement in the form of a storage rack module and adapted for storing a plurality of goods in the cavity, and a transport arrangement in the form of a transport module and including a conveying means and a control unit therefor, operable for selectively transporting goods stored in the storage rack arrangement from the storage rack arrangement to a predetermined location in the cavity. For each of the storage rack modules and transport modules removable from the container, the cargo container includes a releasable coupling mechanism for fastening the respective module and for locating it in a predetermined position with respect to the remainder of the container.

Abstract: The method of control consists in altering the flow path by means of swing and/or slide shiftable movable elements, constituting a fragment of the opposite side walls of an angularly positioned channel, which after shifting stop the flow of rod-shaped articles with the possibility of restoring the flow after shifting the movable elements to previous position. The device is situated in the channel, the first side wall of which is provided with a first movable element, and a fragment of the opposite second side wall forms a second movable element, with the first movable element being mounted on a pivot together with a perpendicular plate, on which also the second movable element by means of an actuator is mounted. The second element has the shape of a cylinder sector. Below the movable elements, and above the horizontal conveyor, is situated a shutoff element.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for sorting or retrieving items to/from a plurality of destinations areas. The items are loaded onto one of a plurality of independently controlled delivery vehicles. The delivery vehicles follow a track that guides the delivery vehicles to/from the destination areas, which are positioned along the track. Once at the appropriate destination area, an item is transferred between the delivery vehicle and the destination area.

Abstract: A storage unit includes carousels each including a plurality of levels and including a plurality of spaces for storing containers on each level, the carousels rotating around a vertical shaft; a loading port for loading and unloading the containers; transport units for transporting the containers between the loading port and the storage spaces; and pipes for feeding clean gas such that feeding is turned on and off for each storage space, the pipes being configured to be connected to an intake port provided for each container.

Abstract: A continuous storage apparatus holds carriers each having many vertical shelves to be continuously loaded and unloaded by pushers at adjacent positions. The conveyor order of arrival of items is maintained on departure. Shelves hold items to be frozen or cooked during storage by a forward or backward (countercurrent) flow of recirculating cold or hot air within the tunnels of the machine. Carrier motion is provided by lifting and lowering conveyor chains at both ends of the tunnels and by shunting the carriers, supported by wheels or skids on rails along the tunnels, when pushed by an actuator.

Abstract: A cantilever carousel system for efficiently storing multiple print cylinders while providing a common access point for loading and unloading the print cylinders. The cantilever carousel system generally includes an external frame structure defining an internal cavity and a shell connected to the external frame structure to surround the cavity, wherein the shell includes at least one access opening extending therethrough. An internal frame structure is positioned within the cavity and a vertically oriented carousel is supported by the internal frame structure. A drive assembly is mechanically connected to the carousel, wherein the drive assembly circulates the carousel and a plurality of cantilever mandrels are supported by the carousel and circulate with the carousel. A plurality of print cylinders are removably received by the plurality of cantilever mandrels through the access opening.

Abstract: A dipping apparatus for dipping the workpiece W in a treatment bath. The workpiece is transferred while fixed on a conveying traveling body 2, and each one flipped upside down together into the treatment bath for carrying out a surface treatment of the workpiece W. The dipping apparatus is provided with a positioning and fixing device to position the conveying traveling body 2 onto the guide rail 17a on the rotation base 15 at a fixed position and to fix the conveying traveling body 2 to the rotation base 15. A feeding mechanism feeds the conveying traveling body 2 to the fixed position on the rotation base 15.

Abstract: A system for transporting an article between a plurality of processing devices includes a track extending above load ports of the processing devices, and an overhead travelling vehicle that travels along the track and has a hoist. A local track disposed lower than the track at least to a position under the track, and is oriented perpendicular to the track when viewed from above. A local carriage travels along the local track and has a hoist for vertically moving the article. A buffer disposed below the local track delivers and receives the article to and from the local carriage, and extends at least to a position under the track.

Abstract: A method for operating a collection system for printed products includes drawing off the printed products from discharge device(s) disposed at corresponding discharge point(s) in the collection system. The printed products are deposited on a collection section during a cycle period of the discharge device(s) so as to form a bundle of printed products. The bundle is transferred to a subsequent conveying mechanism having receiving pockets. It is determined whether at least one missing printed product exists due to an incorrect drawing off from the discharge point(s). A repair process is initiated and controlled in which the at least one missing printed product is drawn off from the corresponding discharge point(s) at a time corresponding to a subsequent recurrent pocket-related cycle of the subsequent conveying mechanism in a subsequent cycle period of the discharge device(s). The at least one missing printed product is inserted in the relevant receiving pocket.

Abstract: A vertically accumulating storage and retrieval apparatus has a first and second plurality of substantially vertically spaced shelf assemblies supported by support structure. Each of the shelf assemblies includes a shelf tray for receiving, storing, and discharging containers. Spring biasing structure is provided for urging the shelf to the receiving position. Dampening structure dampens the movement of the shelf between the upwardly tilted receiving position and the downwardly tilted discharge position. A transfer control and transfer control linkage are provided for retaining the shelf when a shelf of a next lower shelf assembly is not prepared to receive a container, and allowing the shelf to move to the discharge position under the weight of a container disposed on the shelf when the shelf of the next lower shelf assembly is prepared to receive a container. A method for storing and retrieving containers is also disclosed.

Abstract: A stackable carrier assembly, carrier stacking system, and method of storing carrier assemblies is disclosed. The carrier assembly includes a base member presenting a load surface and opposite facing transfer surface. A plurality of carrier trolleys extend transversely from the load surface to engage conveyor tracks. A plurality of track sections are coupled to the load surface for receiving the carrier trolleys of another carrier assembly. The track sections are vertically aligned with the carrier trolleys. In a power and free or friction drive conveyor system, a lift device and telescoping arm can lift and stack the carrier assemblies so that track sections of one carrier assembly receive the carrier trolleys of another carrier assembly. In an overhead conveyor system, one carrier assembly can hang from the track sections of another carrier assembly.

Abstract: A rotary transport system has a main track with transport(s) or shuttle(s) moving along the main track and an auxiliary storage unit. The auxiliary storage unit has a plurality of storing positions, and the storing positions are rotating around the main track. Therefore, the object, such as a FOUP (Front Opening Unified Pod) can be loaded on or unloaded from the storing positions.

Abstract: A vertically accumulating storage and retrieval apparatus has a first and second plurality of substantially vertically spaced shelf assemblies supported by support structure. Each of the shelf assemblies includes a shelf tray for receiving, storing, and discharging containers. Spring biasing structure is provided for urging the shelf to the receiving position. Dampening structure dampens the movement of the shelf between the upwardly tilted receiving position and the downwardly tilted discharge position. A transfer control and transfer control linkage are provided for retaining the shelf when a shelf of a next lower shelf assembly is not prepared to receive a container, and allowing the shelf to move to the discharge position under the weight of a container disposed on the shelf when the shelf of the next lower shelf assembly is prepared to receive a container. A method for storing and retrieving containers is also disclosed.

Abstract: A device for the buffering of objects, with two parallel conveyors which can be driven in opposite directions, and with a transfer installation which can be moved by means of at least one linear guide along the conveyors, for the transfer of objects between the conveyors, where at least one linear guide is arranged with separation above a conveyor.

Abstract: A storage module for flat postal items includes a storage area, an infeed function to transfer postal items from a stream of postal items into the storage area, and an extraction function to extract postal items from the storage area. The infeed and extraction function have a common roller conveyor unit and a feed stop. The infeed function guides the postal items in a direction of travel of the roller conveyor unit from the roller conveyor against the feed stop for a transfer into the storage area. The extraction function extracts the last stacked postal item from the storage area in the direction of travel of the roller conveyor unit through an extraction opening. The storage area includes a separating knife to exert a first pressure and a second pressure.

Abstract: A storage conveyor that secures a number of stored workpieces while saving space is provided. When a sprocket on a driving side is driven to rotate in a forward/reverse direction by a chain drive motor, opposing bend suppression members between a pair of chains are successively engaged/disengaged, and an opposing portion between the pair of chains is extended/retracted with respect to a workpiece conveyance surface. Thus, workpieces are passed between the workpiece conveyance surface and workpiece receivers. Consequently, the workpieces can be stored in a vertical direction (up-down direction), making it possible to secure the number of stored workpieces while saving space.

Abstract: An inventory control system includes a storage module having a continuous track and a plurality of individual storage units stacked in multiple columns or rows. Each storage unit is engaged with the track for selective movement along the track. An inventory control unit is associated with the storage module and has a user interface, a processor, a memory, and a mechanism for inputting object information, including storage unit placement. The processor receives the object information from the inputting mechanism, and stores the object information in the memory for user access therefrom via the user interface.

Abstract: A system and method for stacking and storing a plurality of trays includes a stacker system and a buffer system. The stacker system includes a component, e.g., a platform, which moves a tray between a raised position and a lowered position. The buffer system includes a plurality of opposing projections for capturing the tray when the component is in the raised position.

Abstract: A method and device for controlled filling of a channel supplying tobacco articles, whereby a lead-in member is positioned inside the channel to completely cut off passage along the channel; a mass of tobacco articles is then fed into the channel so that the mass of tobacco articles is positioned contacting the lead-in member; and, finally, the lead-in member is eased along the channel, while keeping the mass of tobacco articles in contact with the lead-in member, to ease the mass of tobacco articles along the channel.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for moving loaded pallets from one location to another, such as from a region of an assembly line to a vertically lower region of the same assembly line. A first conveyor track is angled downwardly from a source of loaded pallets toward a diverter, which is driven to pivot about one end. The diverter receives the pallet when the diverter is parallel to the first conveyor track and then pivots to a horizontal orientation at which it is unloaded. Upon the last object on the pallet being removed, the diverter pivots downwardly to become parallel to a second conveyor track that is angled downwardly from the diverter, and is released to slide down the second conveyor track. The pallet is preferably precisely located and clamped in the diverter.

Abstract: An apparatus for storing and dispensing of a plurality of items of stock (34) such as pharmaceuticals comprises a plurality of storage regions (20), e.g. shelves (26) and a dispensing station (48). The storage regions (20) are arranged to circulate around a continuous path (10) such that each storage region (20) is periodically brought into alignment with the dispensing station (48) so as to allow items to be removed from the storage region (20) at the dispensing station (48).

Abstract: Apparatus for transporting articles forming a mass flow from an input device to an output device, including an endless conveying element with a transport run and a return run, the conveying element being guided about at least three rollers designed as a driving and/or deflecting element, wherein the transport run can be moved out of a throughflow position in which the transport run exhibits its maximum length, into a discharge position in which the transport run is shortened from the maximum length, and vice versa, further wherein at least one of the deflecting and/or driving rollers is movable relative to the other deflecting and/or driving rollers for altering the length of the transport run.

Abstract: A device is constructed for processing or customizing cards or flattened portable objects, for example memory cards, smart card, magnetic strip card, or badge. The device is characterized in that it comprises a flexible or rigid mobile transport structure (1) bearing at least transport means (2) for receiving at least a card (9) in at least a supply station (39) and carrying the cards to one or several processing stations (3). The transport device (2) is mobile relative to the transport structure (1) and enables the card to be displaced towards the processing station (3) or to be displaced inside said station, or a combination of both, without leaving said transport structure.

Abstract: A variable capacity storage unit is disclosed comprising a set of independent conveyor belts superpositioned on top of each other and connected to operate as a single storage unit. The conveyor belts are arranged in a generally H-shaped pattern including two parallel elongated portions and a transverse portion, which is movable along the elongated portions, and include a transfer belt for converting the active portions of each of the conveyor belts into a single unit.

Abstract: A bar stock loader for an elongate member and a method for use is includes a support apparatus with a support surface for supporting the elongate member and a translation apparatus proximate to the support apparatus. The translation apparatus is moveable and has an arm and a lifting mechanism for raising and lowering the arm. The translation apparatus is moveable between a first and second position whereby, when the translation apparatus is in the first position, the arm is positioned overlapping the support surface for receiving the elongate member, and when in the second position the arm is horizontally displaced from the support surface.

Abstract: A container (10) includes a body that has a bottom wall (12), a top wall (20), a back wall (14), and first and second end walls (16), (18) wherein the walls (12), (14), (16), (18), and (20) of the body define an open front (22) portion of the container body. The container (10) further includes a first (24), top (98), bottom (100), side (110), and diagonal (112) conveyors supported on the back wall (14) within the container (10) for supporting parts (28) between the conveyors (24), (98), (100), and (112) for sequentially loading and unloading the parts (28) on and off the conveyors (24), (98), (100), and (112). The container (10) may provide for an effective way for loading and unloading the container with variety of parts comprising different shapes and dimensions.

Abstract: A magazine for rod-shaped articles comprises a storage unit having at least one inlet for receiving at least one of the articles supplied to the storage unit and at least one outlet for discharging at least one of the articles positioned in the storage unit. A variable length belt element disposed in the storage unit has a length which defines a fixed storage unit for accommodating a predetermined number of articles. The length of the belt element is expandable for defining a working storage unit, the volume of which can be changed with the expansion of the belt element.

Abstract: Apparatus for handling biological sample containers comprises a conveyor assembly for conveying containers and a lid handling assembly operable to remove lids from and replace lids onto containers while the containers are in motion on the conveyor assembly. The lid handling assembly comprises a pair of ramps onto which a lid is lifted by a lifting mechanism configured to handle overhanging lids or non-overhanging lids as required. The lid handling assembly may be configured to handle lids of containers of various sizes by altering the ramp spacing. A conveyor assembly comprises a pair of converging rails which carry a pair of jaws operable to carry a container. The convergence of the rails makes the jaws clamp the container so that it is held tightly in position for micro-arraying to be carried out. The conveyor assembly may be adapted to handle different sizes of container by the provision of holders to hold various container types.

Abstract: The invention provides a palletless loading structure for a storage system which comprises a plurality of storage forks including a first support beam and a plurality of storage fork bars mounted in regular interval to cross the first support beam at a right angle; a stacker crane and a including a plurality of transporting fork bars horizontally arranged in a regular interval to be alternatively positioned between the storage fork bars and a third support beam supporting the lower middle portion of the transporting fork bar, wherein any one height of the storage fork bar transporting fork bar is set to be relatively higher than the other one, and the fork bar of a relatively lower height includes a projecting tap mounted on the lower portion thereof, the projecting tap being mounted on the supporting beam.

Abstract: The invention relates to a load-bearing frame (18) for a conveyor device, in particular a shelf-stacking device (1), with a support frame (19) which can be secured on a lift (17) of the conveyor device and, disposed on it, mutually parallel support mechanisms with displaceable telescopic support arms for receiving a storage unit such as a pallet (6), box, etc., and a conveyor system forming a conveying direction extends parallel with a displacement direction of the support mechanisms (21). The conveyor system consists of conveyor mechanisms (27) with two linear conveyors (26) arranged in pairs, disposed symmetrically by reference to a mid-plane (31) and extending between the support mechanisms (21) perpendicular to the standing surface (8) of the shelf-stacking device (1), forming a conveyor direction parallel with a displacement direction of the support mechanisms (21).

Abstract: A container for use with an overhead track chain is disclosed. The container generally comprises a base and a housing. The base includes a tapered spool that extends upwardly from a top surface of the base. The housing surrounds at least a portion of the tapered spool. Therefore, when the base and the housing are secured together the base, the tapered spool, and the housing form an overhead track chain storage area. The chain is stowed in the container when the chain is received in a winding fashion around the spool and within the overhead track chain storage area. When this occurs, the typically heavy and bulky overhead track chain, which includes links permitting the chain to swivel, can be easily packaged, stored, and subsequently transported within the container. A method of stowing the overhead track chain in the container is also disclose.

Abstract: A conveyor system and the operation of a conveyor system will convey articles such as baggage at airports. A buffer arrangement is provided for storing and pre-sorting at least a part of the article-flow through the system. A conveyor system for conveying and sorting articles for a number of different destinations may be operated with a much lower number of stations for discharging the articles if the possibility of pre-sorting and temporarily storing the articles exists within the system. In particular, a storage rack can be provided for storing articles and the conveyor system comprising such a storage rack.

Abstract: The invention relates to an intermediate storage device for objects (11) to be transported. Said device comprises a plurality of carriers (9) which circulate on a closed strip and are used for the objects (11), e.g. printed products; an introducing device (12) arranged on a first point of the strip, and used to introduce the printed products (11) into the carriers (9) passing said point; a distribution device (26) arranged on a second point of the strip, and used to distribute the printed products (11) carried by the carriers (9) passing said second point; and a removal device (16) for removing printed products (11) from a carrier (9) in an area of the strip which is displaced between the first and the second point, said area comprising a section (07/08) which is oriented in a first direction and a section (07/08) which is oriented in a second direction opposite the first.

Abstract: A container (10) includes a body that has a bottom wall (12), a top wall (20), a back wall (14), and first and second end walls (16), (18) wherein the walls (12), (14), (16), (18), and (20) of the body define an open front (22) portion of the container body. The container (10) further includes a first (24), top (98), bottom (100), side (110), and diagonal (112) conveyors supported on the back wall (14) within the container (10) for supporting parts (28) between the conveyors (24), (98), (100), and (112) for sequentially loading and unloading the parts (28) on and off the conveyors (24), (98), (100), and (112). The container (10) may provide for an effective way for loading and unloading the container with variety of parts comprising different shapes and dimensions.

Abstract: A high throughput chemical screening method uses methods of concurrent transport and/or processing to increase throughput. A screener may concurrently retrieve chemicals from an addressable chemical storage module and deliver chemicals to a liquid handling module. The screener may also use one transport lane for moving chemicals away from a storage module, and a second transport lane for moving chemicals toward the storage module.

Abstract: A positive displacement sorter apparatus includes a plurality of interconnected slats defining an endless web, an upper run of the endless web defining a conveying surface. A plurality of pusher shoes are provided, each moving along at least one of the plurality of slats to laterally displace articles on the conveying surface. A linear motor propulsion system may be provided for propelling the web including at least one motor primary and a plurality of motor secondaries at the slats.

Abstract: Storage apparatus has a carriage which can be displaced along a conveying plane, while deflecting rollers subdivide an endless conveyer into a storage strand and an idle strand. A first deflector deflects the idle strand from the conveying plane into a parallel plane spaced apart therefrom while a second deflector is used to transfer the deflected idle strand into the storage strand. The storage apparatus provides space-saving and high-capacity storage without belt crossovers.