Abstract: An autonomous grid storage system (1) arranged in a warehouse space (12). The autonomous grid storage system is divided within the warehouse space, for example on a single floor of said space, into a plurality of sub grids (10a/10b) separated by fire walls (18). One or more bridges (14) pass through openings in the fire wall to allow bin handling vehicles (210/301) to traverse between the sub grids. The openings (20) are provided with closable fire door (22).

Abstract: Disclosed are a robot control system and method. The robot control system includes a storage region, a lifting machine, a control device, and a self-driven robot. The storage region includes a loft having at least two storeys and is configured to store a container, and there is provided a passage on the floor of each of the at least two storeys of the loft for the self-driven robot to move through. The lifting machine is configured to transport the self-driven robot or the container to a target storey corresponding to a transportation task. The control device is configured to assign the transportation task to the self-driven robot and plan a travel route on the target storey for the self-driven robot according to the transportation task, and dispatch the self-driven robot to travel according to the travel route to perform the transportation task.

Abstract: This application relates to the field of intelligent warehousing, and discloses a carrying device and a transport robot having the carrying device. The carrying device includes: a bracket; a tray, mounted on the bracket, and configured to hold goods; a detection device, connected to the tray, and configured to detect the goods placed on the tray; and a telescopic arm, mounted on the bracket, and extensible in a direction parallel to the tray, to move the goods placed on the tray. In the carrying device, the detection device is mounted on the tray, and the detection device detects the goods placed on the tray, avoiding the manual detection of the goods, and providing higher efficiency.

Abstract: Disclosed are a robot control system and method. The robot control system includes a storage region, a lifting machine, a control device, and at least one self-driven robot. The storage region includes a loft having at least two storeys and is configured to store a container, and there is provided a passage on the floor of each of the at least two storeys of the loft for the self-driven robot to move through. The lifting machine is configured to transport the self-driven robot or the container to a target storey corresponding to a transportation task. The control device is configured to assign the transportation task to the self-driven robot and plan a travel route on the target storey for the self-driven robot according to the transportation task, and dispatch the self-driven robot to travel according to the travel route to perform the transportation task.

Abstract: An automated storage and retrieval system including at least one autonomous transport vehicle, a transfer deck that defines an undeterministic transport surface for the at least one autonomous transport vehicle, the transfer deck having multiple travel lanes, at least one reciprocating lift, and at least one pickface handoff station connected to the transfer deck and interfacing between the at least one autonomous transport vehicle on the transfer deck and the at least one reciprocating lift so that a pickface is transferred between the at least one reciprocating and the at least one autonomous transport vehicle.

Abstract: A storage system and a load handling device for lifting and moving containers stacked in the storage system are described. The storage system includes a plurality of rails or tracks arranged in a grid pattern above the stacks of containers. The grid pattern can include a plurality of grid spaces and each stack is located within a footprint of only a single grid space. The load handling device is configured to move laterally on the rails or tracks above the stacks. The load-handling device includes a container-receiving space located above the rails or tracks in use and a lifting device arranged to lift a container from a stack into the container-receiving space. The load handling device has a footprint that, in use, occupies only a single grid space in the storage system.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for selecting and combining items in an outbound container through the use of autonomous vehicles, each of which includes means for automatically loading and unloading a payload, to perform both transfer and transport functions in moving containers of items within a workspace via a network of roadways. Under computer control, said autonomous vehicles transfer and transport case containers of item units between incoming receiving stations, intermediate storage locations, and outgoing order-assembly stations where entire containers or individual item units are combined in the outbound container.

Abstract: A method for operating an automated storage and retrieval system includes transferring a first item storage container from an aisle to a first region of a first storage location, positioning a second item storage container in the aisle proximate the first item storage container, interlocking the second item storage container to the first item storage container by engaging a releasable coupling structure extending there between, and applying, in a first direction transverse to the aisle, a force to the second item storage container sufficient in magnitude and duration to cause the first item storage container to occupy the second region of the first storage location and the second item storage container to occupy the first region of the first storage location, whereby the first and second item storage containers remain interlocked while in the first storage location.

Abstract: A pallet transport apparatus within a rack installation oriented orthogonally with a longitudinal x direction, a transverse z direction and a vertical y direction has a travel route in the x direction and in the z direction. In the apparatus, an x traveling mechanism/x wheel units and a z traveling mechanism/z wheel units are designed so as to be vertically moveable in the y direction mechanically independently of one another. The apparatus has an x lifting device for lifting the x traveling mechanism or of the x wheel units in the y direction, a z lifting device for lifting the z traveling mechanism or of the z wheel units, and a y lifting device for moving the pallet pickup unit. The x/z lifting devices can be activated in the y direction independently of one another and independently of the y lifting device.

Abstract: A lifter system based traversal mechanism for a robot includes detection of the robot at a predetermined distance from a movable platform. The movable platform is part of the lifter system. Teeth orientation of cog wheels of the robot are changed to match teeth orientation of teeth of a fixed teeth structure of the movable platform. The movable platform is moved in to a predetermined proximity of the robot so that teeth are engaged. The movable platform takes the robot from a first position to a second position. On reaching the second position the robot is disengaged from the movable platform.

Abstract: A system includes an automated guided vehicle (AGV). A loading table is positioned on the AGV. The loading table is configured and sized to hold more than one storage container. A frame extends from the AGV. A robotic arm is mounted to the frame. In one form, the frame includes a gantry that moves relative to the rest of the AGV. Alternatively or additionally, the robotic arm is able to move relative to the gantry. By holding more than one storage container, the AGV facilitates automatic batch picking or placing of items. The gantry increases the degrees of freedom of movement of the robotic arm.

Abstract: A system for storing product containers including racks, a guide system having longitudinal guides and transverse guides extending between adjacent rows of the racks, and trolleys that can move along the guide system.

Abstract: A storage and picking system including racks having a multiplicity of rack locations; vertical conveyors adjacent laterally to longitudinal sides of corresponding racks or arranged within the corresponding racks; transfer locations arranged for material-flow-related uncoupling between the vertical conveyors and storage-and-retrieval units; storage-and-retrieval units in aisles between the racks; and a conveying level free of rack locations. The vertical conveyors are assigned respective transfer locations in the conveying-means level. A material-flow computer (MFR), which has access to a topology made up of a multiplicity of waypoints and segments, provides article-specific, sequence- or distribution-weighted transport orders to transport the articles between the rack locations and starting points/destinations.

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 transfer device includes a conveyor, a slide arm, hooks, and a controller. The conveyor can is configured to transport an article placed on a top surface thereof in the direction parallel or substantially parallel to the article transporting direction. The slide arm is configured to slide and move in the direction parallel or substantially parallel to the article transporting direction. The hooks are attached to the slide arm and are configured to move between action position protruding toward the article placed on the conveyor in a direction crossing a sliding direction of the slide arm and a retract position to avoid contact with the article placed on the conveyor. The controller controls the conveyor to transport the article in the direction opposite to the article transporting direction so that an end of the article in the opposite direction of the article transporting direction reaches a position adjacent to the hook, and then moves the slide arm in the article transporting direction.

Abstract: Method for laterally replacing a heavy component of a plant assembly, the method including disconnecting the heavy component from other components of the plant assembly and from a base plate to which the heavy component is fixed; lifting the heavy component above the base plate with a lifting system provided within the base plate; connecting at least a pair of rails to the base plate, under the lifted heavy component, such that the at least a pair of rails extends at substantially a right angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the heavy component; lowering the heavy component on crawling mechanisms disposed on the at least a pair of rails; and laterally replacing the heavy component from the base plate and the other components of the plant assembly by actuating the crawling mechanisms.

Abstract: The present invention provides a container storage facility in which inert gas can be supplied to a container in a container storage section that can be moved between the storage position and the transfer position while preventing deterioration of the gas supply line and generation of dust to the extent possible. The container storage section of the container storage facility in accordance with the present invention includes a container support provided to be movable with respect to the fixed frame member between a storage position and a transfer position for transferring the container to and from a transporting device. The gas supply line of gas supply system for supplying the inactive gas to the container supported by the container support of the storage position includes a fixed side portion and a moving side portion which can be moved in unison with the container support.

Abstract: Rack storage and retrieval device for a rack storage facility, the rack storage and retrieval device comprising a carriage with a carriage drive to move the carriage on a base, a loading/removing rod that can be displaced by means of a lifting drive transverse to the base, at least one loading drive arranged on the loading/removing rod to load the rack storage facility with goods, and a separating unit for a separate removal of the goods from the rack storage facility.

Abstract: An order-picking system and method includes a pallet warehouse (12), preferably in terms of a high-bay warehouse, being used as a supply warehouse dedicated to a plurality of, preferably different, packing units (40) which are stored, preferably by one sort only, on pallets (14) in the pallet warehouse (12); a tray warehouse (24) which is used as a picking buffer for supplying connected order-picking stations with packing units (40), wherein trays (38) are stored in the tray warehouse which have been loaded with a pallet layer of packing units (40) before; a conveyor (22) which transports from the pallet warehouse to the tray warehouse trays (38) which are respectively loaded with a pallet layer of packing units, particularly across longer distances; and at least a rack-transport unit (36) for trays (38), the rack-transport unit allowing receipt of a plurality of trays being respectively loaded with a pallet layer.

Abstract: A robotic system that identifies surgical instruments, sorts them by type, stores them, and retrieves them for packaging in surgical containers. The system is comprised of robotic components, a surgical instrument input mechanism, a surgical instrument identification system, a machine-vision system to assist in locating and identifying these items, a set of surgical instrument storage bins or stacks, a set of robotically accessible mechanisms for organizing surgical instruments within their containers, and a software control system that allows the device to perform its functions autonomously.

Abstract: A method and a device are provided for automatically supplying packages, that have been sorted by type, to a column stacker, preferably in a sorting system. The device has at least one supply path (2) on which the packages, which have been sorted by type, are automatically supplied to the column stacker (3) individually and chaotically distributed in partial stacks. The invention proposes that at least two packages (T1, T1) or partial stacks of packages (T2, T2 or T3, T3 or T4, T4 or T5, T5)—as long as said partial stacks are not already randomly present on the supply path (2)—of the same height disposed one directly behind the other be combined with the aid of a package register 1 before being supplied to the column stacker (3) simultaneously.

Abstract: An automated system for preparing parcels of products has a storage assembly housing product containers; a pick station; a main conveyor which conveys the product container between the inlet/outlet of the storage assembly and the pick station; and a central management computer system which manages the product order list associated with each parcel. The main conveyor arranges the containers according to an order list, using a first conveyor belt section, a second conveyor belt section adjacent to the pick station and a buffer zone between the outlet of the storage assembly and the first belt section. The containers are moved between the belt sections by transfer members in transfer zones.

Abstract: A method for managing charge of a plurality of battery-driven AGVs (automated guided vehicles) circulating on the main route provided with an automatic charge station includes: a first step of detecting, using an AGV, a marker for battery voltage check provided on a main route to measure the voltage of a battery of the AGV; a second step of changing the route of the AGV to advance it into a charge route provided in an automatic charge station, stopping the AGV in a charging position, and charging the battery automatically by using an automatic charger, if the measured battery voltage has lowered to a level requiring charging; and a third step of conveying the AGV that has been automatically charged to a standby place provided in the automatic charge station.

Abstract: A storage rack comprises a plurality of slacked supporting ledges each spaced away from each other arranged in pairs on facing sidewalls for receiving plate-type carriers for stored articles. Storage and retrieval of the carriers in the storage rack is provided by a transport device. The supporting ledges are a snaked press fit in the sheet metal of the sidewalls and the sidewalls are secured to upright rack stanchions. To define a storage rack ensuring exact positioning of the supporting ledges, it is proposed that the rack stanchions comprise horizontally protruding pegs engaging cavities in the supporting ledges.

Abstract: An overhead rack system is provided that may be mounted to the ceiling of a structure such as a garage for storing items in an organized manner off the floor. Overhead rack system is designed to make use of a garage's previously unused ceiling space, allowing home owners to store their items overhead and out of the way. The system is ideally configured for storing large or heavy items that otherwise can quickly fill a garage's available floor space.

Abstract: Various embodiments of a system and method for directing indicator-based sortation of shipments are described. In various embodiments, a control system may be configured to utilize indicators to direct the sortation of items in a materials handling facility, such as an order fulfillment center tasked with fulfilling customer orders for one or more items. For a given unsorted item, the control system may cause an indicator to indicate to which of multiple sorting slots the given item is to be placed, thereby sorting the item to its respective shipment assigned to the sorting slot. In various embodiments, the shipment sorting units may be serviced from a rebin side as well as a pack side. The control system may be configured to prioritize the processing of such shipments by utilizing indicators associated with respective shipment sorting slots on the pack side to indicate a priority for processing a given shipment.

Abstract: A method and an apparatus for the order picking of items in an order-picking installation (30) with an automatic order-picking device (31) and an associated dynamic-storage rack (1) as a store for replenishing the automatic order-picking device with items. The items are automatically transported, preferably separately according to type, in containers or boxes (2) to the dynamic-storage rack (1) on a driven conveying line (4). After reading and identifying the boxes (2), they are introduced automatically by an activated stationary lift (5) and activated level serving devices (6) of the dynamic-storage rack (1) into selected dynamic-storage channels (3) of the dynamic-storage rack. The channels have exits (A) that can be manually reached by an operator (17).

Abstract: A temperature controlled storage facility includes a room having an enclosed structure, and a plurality of multi-level storage zones within the room. Each of the storage zones include a supply of temperature controlled air having two outlets, one outlet positioned adjacent to a top area of the storage area, and a second outlet positioned adjacent to an aisle, wherein pressure barriers are created to prevent air flow from migrating to other storage areas or to a return duct without cooling (or heating) all of the inventory in the storage zone.

Abstract: An automation apparatus and method includes a first unit rotationally moving objects from one area to another, and a second unit connected to the first unit and holding the objects, moving through or offset from the body of the first unit from a first side of the first unit to the other side the first unit in a direction other than the rotational movement by the first unit. Moreover, the apparatus and method provides moving the objects through a vertical axis of the body of the first unit.

Abstract: A semiconductor workpiece processing system having at least one processing apparatus for processing workpieces, a primary transport system, a secondary transport system and one or more interfaces between first transport system and second transport system. The primary and secondary transport systems each have one or more sections of substantially constant velocity and in queue sections communicating with the constant velocity sections.

Abstract: A system for assembling and dispensing an order made up of one or more individually packaged items from a plurality of different individually packaged items includes a storage module containing one or more packages of each of the items, and a conveyor having selectively assignable spaces configured to receive the packaged items associated with a particular order and to transport the packaged items to a processing location. A pick device is movable relative to the storage module and is configured to retrieve a package from the storage module. A transfer station adjacent the conveyor receives one or more of the packaged items from the pick device and an actuator associated with the transfer station moves the packaged items from the transfer station to the conveyor when the assigned space associated with the order is in registration with the transfer station.

Abstract: A pallet storage installation for stock keeping of goods to be stored for use in a ship includes storage rows placed on both sides of a storage aisle, a transport device movable in the storage aisle for storing in and out pallets with a carrier plate into the storage rows, wherein storage rows for forming several store rooms separated by walls which can be separated by walls are placed on both sides of the storage aisle, wherein each pallet is configured as a box with a carrier plate and with side walls, whereby the carrier plate is provided with stands placed in the carrier plate corner areas.

Abstract: An automatic dispensing apparatus system and method for dispensing predetermined objects is disclosed. More particularly, the invention is an automatic bottled water dispensing apparatus system and method having a housing which houses various sizes of bottled water and a conveyor system for transporting the bottled water to a dispensing member for a customer. The dispensing apparatus system also includes a return machine for returning empty bottles, a plurality of selection members, a payment member and an inventory monitoring member.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for automatically order-picking or consolidating articles of a wide variety of different formats and varieties, using the following steps: separating the stored articles, storing the articles in a rack bay, retrieving the articles and palletising them. The method is predominantly characterized in that the articles which are to be order-picked for an order are put together in a rack bay already in the sequence which is necessary for palletising. The invention also relates to an installation for implementing the method.

Abstract: A discharge hopper for a tray discharge station for serially discharging shaft trays filled with rod-shaped products includes, a conveying element for carrying away the products flowing from the shaft trays and a connecting device for coupling the shaft trays to be emptied to the conveying element. The connecting device is arranged substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the conveying element to form a channel for the product flow and includes an opening for passage of the products from the shaft tray into the channel. In the region of the connecting device there is provided a closure unit to open and close the opening. The closure device is coupled to a movable actuating element so that the closure device can be opened and closed shaft by shaft in relation to the shaft tray to be emptied.

Abstract: A temperature controlled storage facility includes a room having an enclosed structure, and a plurality of multi-level storage zones within the room. Each of the storage zones include a supply of temperature controlled air having two outlets, one outlet positioned adjacent to a top area of the storage area, and a second outlet positioned adjacent to an aisle, wherein pressure barriers are created to prevent air flow from migrating to other storage areas or to a return duct without cooling (or heating) all of the inventory in the storage zone.

Abstract: The invention relates to a shelf operating device comprising at least one continuous drive element (13) which is guided about two wheels (12, 13) which are arranged at a distance from each other, also comprising an upper strand and a lower strand. At least one gripping means (40, 41) is provided in order to grip a container (2) or a pallet. The gripping means (40, 41) describes a path which extends on deflection areas of the above-mentioned (11, 12) above the path of the drive element (13). The engaging means (40, 41) is embodied in a manner similar to that of forceps and guided such that it executes a lateral movement in order to grip the container (2) or the pallet. Preferably, the gripping means (40, 41) comprises two engaging arms (18, 24; 18?, 24?) which are pivotably mounted and which can be pivoted towards each other in order to grip in a manner similar to that of forceps. Most commercially available containers (2) and pallet can be stored and removed from storage by using said shelf operating device.

Abstract: A contactless power system for an automated data storage library having a plurality of storage shelves for storing data storage cartridges, at least one picker for accessing the data storage cartridges with respect to the storage shelves, and a transport system for guiding the picker(s) along at least one path with respect to the storage shelves. The contactless power system comprises a plurality of segmented coils arranged in parallel to the path(s), and in proximity to at least one induction receiver of the picker(s); and at least one power source supplying power to the segmented coils, for inductive transmission of power by the segmented coils to the induction receiver(s) of the picker(s). The power source(s) may switch the supplied power to selected segmented coils based on an indication of the position of the induction receiver(s) of the picker along the path.

Abstract: The present invention comprises apparatus and methods to enable totes to be outwardly extended from supporting structures while retained in an extended position thus to accommodate the removal or insertion of items. The apparatus of the invention may typically be utilized with conventional warehouse equipment which has support beams and pins extending outwardly. Guide beams are provided atop support beams.

Abstract: A rack serving unit comprises a carriage which may be moved along a rack aisle on substantially horizontal carrying rails. Carried along by the carriage there is a lifting platform which is suspended on the carriage by way of at least two traction mechanisms, preferably cables, and may be moved in the vertical direction with respect to the carriage. To stabilise the lifting platform against undesired lateral movements, a stabilising device is provided which comprises at least one guide element extending substantially horizontally parallel to the translatory movement path of the lifting platform. This guide element is in constant engagement with the lifting platform in such a way that the position of this latter in the direction of the translatory movement is constantly defined. Provided at both ends of the translatory movement path, there is a lifting device for each guide element by means of which the guide element may be moved synchronously with the lifting platform in the vertical direction.

Abstract: A mast in a conventional stacker crane is configured to extend in a vertical direction. Accordingly, the mast is not sufficiently rigid, and may swing in a running direction during running or when the running operation is stopped. An attempt to increase the rigidity results in a thicker mast, thus increasing the size of the stacker crane. In order to solve this problem, a mast is extended vertically from a lower frame and a platform that elevates and lowers along the mast wherein a ladder is extended vertically at a position opposite to the mast across the platform in a direction in which the lower frame runs, and a top of the mast and a top of the ladder is connected together via an upper frame.

Abstract: A system for relocating elements within a storage library is provided, the library comprising plurality of adjacent horizontal arrays of storage cells and at least one robot that moves along the horizontal arrays and can retrieve objects from and place objects into the storage cells. The present invention comprises a cross-cabinet guide rail that is placed at the end of the adjacent horizontal arrays and serves as a means 1) to move media elements and robots between adjacent arrays of storage cells, 2) to provide an easy access method for the entry and removal of components from the library, and 3) to provide a method for movement of cartridges and robots between separate library enclosures.

Abstract: A system for maneuvering and hanging articles on rails. The system is operable to select one or more hanging articles, disengage their hooks from the rails, reposition them, and re-hang them in a new position on the rails. The system includes a cart for lateral movement upon a set of rails, the cart having wings for lifting hanging articles off the rails and setting hanging articles onto the rails. The cart has a lifting mechanism, which can be lowered so as to drop hanging articles down to a work area or to raise the hanging articles for placement upon the rails. The system may be employed in a greenhouse for moving hanging baskets of plants.

Abstract: The storage system is for use next to a glass processing line having a loading table, a glass cutting table and a breakout table. The storage system comprises a first tilt table and a second tilt table. A storage rack is positioned between the first and the second tilt table. The storage rack comprises a plurality of parallel storage slots extending longitudinally within the main frame of the storage rack. The storage slots storing the glass offcuts at a substantially vertical position of less than 90 degrees with reference to the horizontal. In use, the first tilt table receives horizontally-disposed glass offcuts from the breakout table and sends it to the storage rack. The second tilt table receives previously-stored glass offcuts from the storage rack to be directed to the loading table. A method of storing a glass offcut and a method of recycling glass offcuts are also disclosed. The storage system and methods allow to easily store and retrieve glass offcuts.

Abstract: An output assembly for stores for picking up stored products from an output section of a store, where a plurality of shelves is present for storing products, the aforesaid shelves being set on top of one another and being able to move in a vertical direction. The assembly comprises a moving element for picking up the products, which can move in a substantially vertical direction so as to reach selectively the height of one of the shelves of said plurality. The moving element comprises an unloading unit for determining selectively unloading of the products that are found on the shelves and at least one structure for receiving the products unloaded from said shelves. Also provided is at least one conveying structure for transferring the products unloaded from said store by the moving element.

Abstract: A lumber bin has live bin walls. The lumber bin may be used in lumber sorting. The bin has upstream and downstream walls located above a conveyor. A lumber support in the bin has an elevator mechanism and can be lowered to a discharge position in which lumber on the lumber support can be carried away by the conveyor. A gate is mounted below the conveyor. The gate is in an upright position as the lumber support is lowered. The gate can be pivoted downstream to a lowered position below a level of the conveyor to gently discharge lumber onto the conveyor.

Abstract: A storage shelf (10) comprising a plurality of stacked supports (12) for supporting containers (13) of articles suitable for handling by an automated storage and retrieval device (15) including at least one storage and retrieval opening (20) for storage and retrieval of the containers (13) and a computer (17) in which information as to the stored articles (14) is memorized. To improve the overview of the stored articles at least one digital camera (16) is provided which senses the articles (14) held in the containers (13). The resulting digital information is memorized in the computer (17) for display by means of a monitor.

Abstract: The invention concerns one or two belts-staircases that link several storage levels. Each level has linear storage belts accessed through a belt that connect the level to the intake. The outlet from the storage belts ends in another belt connecting them to the outlet and again to the storage belts. At the intake to levels and storage belts there are divertors to divert merchandises into them. To control the flow, there are photoelectric cells and tag readers at the intakes and outlets of the various devices.

Abstract: A plurality of trimmed products 5, pressed-finished products 6, sub-component products 7 or the like which are pre-coating stages of sheet metal parts are put on top of each other as semi-finished products and collectively packed by a rust-preventive sheet 12 to provide a collective style of packing for collective storage 10. This collective packing style for collective storage 10 is stored as one packing unit. Operation timing of the collective storage is when the forecasted number of demand reaches a predetermined number, for example, when cubic volume of a metal die coincides with cubic volume for storing all quantity of the semi-finished products to be stocked. At this point, all quantity of the semi-finished products of which the demand is forecasted are collectively manufactured and stored as a stock, wherein the metal die is scrapped.

Abstract: A wheel supported conveyor having a central platform crane section disposed between opposite end crane sections is positioned in underlying relation to a container holding spreader of a dockside terminal crane for transfer of containers to and from the chassis of trucks moved into loading positions without obstruction along parallel spaced passage lanes formed in the end crane sections. Sections of a roller track are respectively associated with each of the conveyor crane sections for displacement of the containers laterally between a common track path and the truck passage lanes. Container spreaders are slidably mounted on the end crane sections effecting said lateral displacement of containers between the truck passage lanes and the common roller track path.