Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a system for scheduling the shipment of a set of products. The shipment may be loaded into a set of vehicles and further configured to fit a set of compartments on those vehicles. The system may include attempts to fill each vehicle and the compartments of each vehicle. The system may include evaluating a set of constraints on the shipment. The constraints may include a complex logical statement.

Abstract: Systems and method of processing one or more documents are shown and described. The orientation of a magnetic character is sensed on the document. The orientation is processed and used to control a sort processing device.

Abstract: A method for fulfilling inventory requests includes receiving an inventory request requesting an inventory item and selecting the requested inventory item from an inventory holder. The method further includes storing the requested inventory item in an order holder associated with the inventory request and moving the order holder to a storage space. In addition, the method includes detecting a triggering event and in response to detecting the triggering event, retrieving the order holder from the storage space.

Abstract: A system and process for improving container flow within a port facility, including improved equipment and software for controlling operation and flow of the equipment in the part facility. The system may include a port facility geographically arranged to separate land operations and water operations. Land operations such as over-the-road missions and rail missions may use landside access areas positioned at one end of a yard including rows of container stacks. Water missions such as loading/discharging a vessel may use waterside access areas positioned at the opposite end of the yard. Automated cranes linked with a terminal operating system may pick/drop/shuffle containers and/or refrigerated containers (“reefers”) within the container stacks. Shuttle trucks may be used to pick/drop containers at quayside access points and the waterside access areas. The shuttle trucks may utilize shared wheelpaths. Software systems may be used to implement various principles of the disclosure.

Abstract: A truss assembly system may include a truss assembly station. The truss assembly station may be configured to enable assembly of a truss from truss members via an automatic sequential placement of the truss members based at least in part upon a planned location of pre-plated truss members within an assembled truss. The pre-plated truss members may be truss members including at least one connector plate installed thereon prior to placement at the truss assembly station.

Abstract: A method of operating the automated sample workcell for processing one or more biological samples is presented. The method comprises receiving one or more biological samples. Each biological sample is contained in a sample tube. Each sample tube is a tube type. If a test order was received for at least one of the biological samples, the test order being indicative of one or more first processing steps, the workcell can automatically execute the one or more first processing steps. If the test order was not received, one or more second processing steps can be determined based on the tube type of the sample tube that contains the at least one biological sample and the one or more second processing steps can then be executed.

Abstract: A method for compensating for a perturbation external to a platform having a plurality of mechanical arms in accordance with an embodiment of the technology includes detecting a normal positional and/or orientational measurement of the platform using a sensor. A perturbed positional and/or orientational measurement of the platform can also be detected using the sensor. The normal positional and/or orientational measurement and the perturbed positional and/or orientational measurement can be compared to determine a positional and/or orientational difference. A position and/or orientation of a mechanical arm can be adjusted to compensate for the perturbation based on the positional and/or orientational difference.

Abstract: A system and method for identifying captured written data associated with a writing surface using a pen-based computing system are described. In one embodiment, a series of writing surfaces, such as notebooks, are produced, each including a plurality of pages that have an encoded pattern. In an embodiment, each writing surface is also associated with an identifier recognizable by a smart pen or other data capture device. When the smart pen captures written data from a writing surface, the smart pen determines whether the pen-based computing system includes stored written data previously captured from a writing surface having the same encoded pattern as the writing surface from which written data is currently being captured.

Abstract: A method of identifying transportation items which are physically different from one another, particularly for identifying automatically sortable passenger luggage in air, rail, or ocean travel, using electronically readable information associated with the transportation item.

Abstract: An RFID enabled paper roll includes a tubular core, a paper stock wound around the core, and a radio frequency integrated circuit electrically coupled to an antenna and positioned on the core. A system for reading a radio frequency integrated circuit positioned on an item of inventory in a warehouse comprises a material handling device and an RFID reader coupled to the material handling device. The material handling device has at least member for use in transporting an item of inventory. The reader is configured to read the radio frequency integrated circuit associated with the item of inventory when the item is in proximity to the material handling device.

Abstract: A deployment apparatus (1) adapted to remove articles (14) located on a support surface (5), the articles (14) being located in a plurality of orientations and positions on the support surface (5). The deployment apparatus (1) includes; an article detector (2) capable of determining an orientation and position of at least one article located on the support surface (5), a removal system (4) capable of engaging with and removing an article (14) from the support surface (5), a maneuvering system (3) capable of positioning the removal system (4) to engage with a selected article and deploying an engaged article to a predetermined position and/or orientation.

Abstract: An assembly for selectively presenting objects includes: a frame; a carousel rotatably mounted to the frame for rotation about a generally vertical axis of rotation, the carousel including a plurality of object compartments arranged about the axis of rotation; a servomotor operably connected with the carousel, the servomotor being configured to rotate the carousel about the axis of rotation; and a controller. The controller is configured to actuate the servomotor to rotate the carousel when torque applied to the servomotor exceeds a predetermined magnitude. Such an assembly can serve as a presentation device that enables an operator to remove objects therefrom at his/her convenience.

Abstract: A targeted product distribution system is described herein with respect to an exemplary management of product flow through a distribution center. Specifically, the system and method described herein is directed to the management and display of direct and easily-understood instructions, such that average individuals, as well as those with mental disabilities, will be able to contribute equally to the overall process.

Abstract: An automated parking system and method for controlling a parking garage employ a distributed control system to control the transport of a vehicle between an entry/exit station and a parking space. The distributed control system employs an independent controller (PLC) for each mechanical element, such as elevators and shuttle cars. The PLCs are interconnected by a network and coordinate with each other to control the operation of the automated parking system. An operator panel including a touchscreen display may be used by an operator to control directly the operation of a particular PLC and its associated mechanical element. A central management computer is used to coordinate the overall operation and management of the distributed control system and to provide enhanced features including redundant safety checks.

Abstract: A targeted product distribution system is described herein with respect to an exemplary management of product flow through a distribution center. Specifically, the system and method described herein is directed to the management and display of direct and easily-understood instructions, such that average individuals, as well as those with mental disabilities, will be able to contribute equally to the overall process.

Abstract: A mechanical system for selectively moving a load a motive distance comprises an actuator operable for applying a force to the load. The actuator includes an active material element having a variable property. A controller is connected to the actuator and operable for sending a first stimulus to the actuator to shift the actuator from a first state to a second state. The second state is associated with detecting the onset of actuation for the actuator. The controller is operable to send the priming stimulus level to the actuator to shift it to the primed state. The actuator includes a priming device operable for determining the onset of actuation of the first active material element.

Abstract: A player device uses playlists having names of contents. Users can update the playlists via network. The player device includes a storage device for storing digital data of the contents, a reception/reception circuit for downloading playlists, a display for displaying the titles of contents included in the playlists, a pointing device for specifying displayed titles, a circuit for retrieving digital data from the storage device in the event that digital data of a content specified by the pointing device is stored within the storage device, and an output circuit for outputting the retrieved digital data.

Abstract: A device for manipulating containers, comprising a manipulation unit manipulating the containers in a predetermined manner, this manipulation unit including at least one condition detection unit which detects at least one operating condition of the manipulation unit and sends out condition signals which are characteristic for this operating condition of the manipulation unit, and including a monitoring unit for monitoring the manipulation unit, the monitoring unit including a visual display device for displaying information as well as a storage device in which presentation data for components of the manipulation unit is deposited. According to the invention, the monitoring unit includes an image manipulation unit which as a response to emitted condition signals provides image sequences on the basis of presentation data stored on the storage device, which image sequences may be output via the display device.

Abstract: A platform includes main transverse beams (“MTBs”), each supported by at least one hoist. It is determined whether a load on any MTB is different from the load on any other MTB by more than a predetermined amount. An MTB which has a load different from the load on any other MTB by more than a predetermined amount is selected and then vertically moved with respect to the other MTBs within a predetermined safety limit to transfer load between the selected MTB and the other MTBs while monitoring the loads on each MTB and the position of the selected MTB as vertical movement of the selected MTB proceeds. The monitored loads and position are compared with the safety limit; and the movement of the selected MTB stopped when either the desired load transfer is completed or the safety limit has been met.

Abstract: An automated storage system comprises a plurality of storage locations, at least one access location, a plurality of storage containers provided on the storage locations, a control system and at least one user interface, the control system further comprising a retrieval mode and a storage mode, and a delivery system for delivering a storage container from a storage location to an access location during the retrieval mode, and for returning the storage container to a storage location during the storage mode. User instructions at the control interface initiate the retrieval mode and the storage mode, and a user is provided access to the retrieved storage container while it is located at the access location.

Abstract: A grasp assist device includes a glove portion having phalange rings, contact sensors for measuring a grasping force applied by an operator wearing the glove portion, and a tendon drive system (TDS). The device has flexible tendons connected to the phalange rings for moving the rings in response to feedback signals from the sensors. The TDS is connected to each of the tendons, and applies an augmenting tensile force thereto via a microcontroller adapted for determining the augmenting tensile force as a function of the grasping force. A method of augmenting a grasping force of an operator includes measuring the grasping force using the sensors, encoding the grasping force as the feedback signals, and calculating the augmenting tensile force as a function of the feedback signals using the microcontroller. The method includes energizing at least one actuator of a tendon drive system (TDS) to thereby apply the augmenting tensile force.

Abstract: A system for certifying provenance of an alcoholic beverage includes a radio-frequency identification tag and a server. The radio-frequency identification tag, associated with a bottle containing an alcoholic beverage, periodically measures a plurality of values of an environmental condition of the bottle. The radio-frequency identification tag stores the plurality of measured values. The server receives the plurality of measured values for analysis. The server provides, via a user interface, a description of a provenance of the alcoholic beverage, the description generated responsive to an analysis of the plurality of measured values.

Abstract: A method and system are provided for automatically making payments for recyclable items deposited at reverse vending machines.

Abstract: A system and method for determining inclination and version of a prosthetic acetabular cup relative to a coronal radiographic plane is provided. The system and method include the identification of a coronal radiographic plane in a three dimensional medical image. The system and method further include the identification of two symmetric landmarks on the pelvis to determine a mediolateral axis. The version and inclination can then be calculated based on the relationship between the axis of the acetabular cup, the coronal radiographic plan, and the mediolateral axis.

Abstract: An assembly for selectively presenting objects includes: a frame; a carousel rotatably mounted to the frame for rotation about a generally vertical axis of rotation, the carousel including a plurality of object compartments arranged about the axis of rotation; a servomotor operably connected with the carousel, the servomotor being configured to rotate the carousel about the axis of rotation; and a controller. The controller is configured to actuate the servomotor to rotate the carousel when torque applied to the servomotor exceeds a predetermined magnitude. Such an assembly can serve as a presentation device that enables an operator to remove objects therefrom at his/her convenience.

Abstract: Provided is a transport method comprising judging whether there is a possibility that misalignment greater than or equal to a threshold value occurs between substrates to be layered that are held by a pair of substrate holders aligned and stacked by an aligning section, the misalignment occurring when the pair of substrate holders is transported from the aligning section to a pressure applying section; and if the judgment indicates that there is the possibility of misalignment, transporting the pair of substrate holders to a region other than the pressure applying section. Whether there is the possibility of misalignment may be judged based on acceleration of the substrate holders. Whether there is the possibility of misalignment may be judged based on acceleration of a transporting section that transports the substrate holders. Whether there is the possibility of misalignment may be judged based on relative positions of the substrate holders.

Abstract: A robot teach tool is provided that enables automatic teaching of pick and place positions for a robot. The automated robot teach tool obviates the need for manual operation of the robot during the teaching. The result is an automated process that is much faster, more accurate, more repeatable and less taxing on a robot operator.

Abstract: In order to facilitate the management of the hardware key of a library apparatus employing the LTO system, a write function of a noncontact memory (CM: cartridge memory) contained in an LTO tape cartridge is implemented in a medium carrying mechanism part of the library apparatus, and during an insertion to a tape drive, the IDs unique to a library control part and to the medium carrying mechanism part are recorded in the non-contact memory and utilized as the hardware key of an encrypting apparatus. The hardware key written once is overwritten (erased) during an ejection, thereby preventing leakage of key information.

Abstract: A bottle cap includes a reservoir; a screw cap; a magnetic lock comprising a magnetically actuated spring bolt on the reservoir, and a hole on the cap; a fingerprint scanner on the reservoir; and a battery powered controller on bottom of the reservoir for fingerprint identification and fingerprint storing. In response to placing a finger on the fingerprint scanner, the fingerprint scanner and the controller are activated, the fingerprint scanner captures a fingerprint from the finger and converts the fingerprint into digital signals which are sent to the controller, the controller compares the digital signals with the fingerprint record(s), if matching the bolt will be compressed to clear the hole with the clearing being kept for a time to disengage the cap from the reservoir, and thereafter the controller and the fingerprint scanner will be deactivated and the bolt will bounce back to its locked position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for lifting containers (6), all containers (6) to be lifted being connected by means of locks (1). The method comprises the steps of by an external unit (2, 4) requesting a first piece of information regarding if the locks (1) that are arranged on a container to be lifted are locked or unlocked, requesting a second piece of information regarding one or more given requirements that the locks (1) to be lifted and are locked meet. Then said first and second pieces of information regarding the locks to be lifted are transferred to the external unit (2, 4) or to another unit. In the external unit (2, 4) or in another unit it is then judged if all locks (1) that should be locked are locked and if they meet requirements required for the lift. If that is the case, lift of said container (6) takes place. The invention also relates to a system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method to determine the relative position of a container corner lock and/or a group of container corner locks in relation to other container corner locks. The method comprises the steps of: requesting information regarding identification from those locks (1) that are within a certain area; transferring said information to each lock (1) within said area; storing, in each lock (1) within said area, said requested information from other locks within the area; determining, based on said stored information, the relative position of the lock and/or of the group of locks. The invention also relates to a system and a container corner lock.

Abstract: If the rotation angle in a rotation direction allowed by a joint portion detected by the angle sensor is no more than a predetermined lower limit or no less than a predetermined upper limit, the controller maintains the released state of the brake mechanism so that the rotation of the workpiece in the direction is not restricted.

Abstract: A computerized system for a fabrication facility capable of routine placement and replacement of processing tools in at least a vertical dimension relative to each other.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assembling a complex product in a parallel process system wherein a collection of components are provided for assembling the complex product. The present invention involves transferring the collection of the components to one of a plurality of similar computerized assembly cells through the use of a transport system. The collection of components is automatically assembled into the complex product through the use of the computerized assembly cells. The complex product is then transferred from one of the assembly cells to a computerized test cell, where the complex product is tested to ensure for the proper dimensioning and functioning of the complex product. The complex product is then transferred from the test cell via the transport system to either a part reject area or conveyor, if the complex product is defective, or to an automatic dunnage load or part return system, if the complex product is not defective.

Abstract: Methods and systems, in one embodiment, for receiving a warped flexible wafer to be transferred between a first mechanism and a second mechanism are described. The method and system senses a first vacuum suction between the warped flexible wafer and the first mechanism. The warped flexible wafer is positioned to define a gap between the warped flexible wafer and the second mechanism. Methods and systems for closing the gap incrementally between the warped flexible wafer and the second mechanism are described. At each increment, the methods and systems detect whether a second vacuum suction is created between the warped flexible wafer and the second mechanism. When a second vacuum suction is detected between the warped flexible wafer and the second mechanism, the first vacuum suction between the warped flexible wafer and the first mechanism is released.

Abstract: Systems and a computer-readable medium is provided. In one embodiment, an integrated pull-up system is provided which includes an electric hoist adapted for mounting in one of an upper portion of a medical imaging device, at a base of said medical imaging device, integrated in said medical imaging device, and on a patient handling system (“PHS”). One end of a cable/strap is attached to the hoist. The other end of the cable/strap includes a grab-bar attached thereto. When actuated, the cable/strap retracts and extends to move a patient, holding the grab-bar, towards/from a supine position towards/from a seated position on the PHS.

Abstract: A targeted product distribution system is described herein with respect to an exemplary management of product flow through a distribution center. Specifically, the system and method described herein is directed to the management and display of direct and easily-understood instructions, such that average individuals, as well as those with mental disabilities, will be able to contribute equally to the overall process.

Abstract: A conveyance device includes a motor, a conveyance unit, a movement detection signal output unit, a storage unit, a time measurement unit, a first updating unit, a standby time setting unit, a second updating unit, a manipulated variable determination unit, and a motor driving unit. The standby time setting unit sets a value larger than a parameter value TX stored in the storage unit as a standby time TW. The second updating unit updates the parameter value TX stored in the storage unit to the standby time TW each time the elapsed time measured by the time measurement unit reaches the standby time TW.

Abstract: A pick and place system including at least one input conveyor, at least one output conveyor, at least one pick and place robot and control circuitry. Available picking positions on an input conveyor at which a respective item can be picked are determined as well as available placing positions on an output conveyor at which a respective item can be placed. For the available picking positions and the available placing positions, a respective picking time and placing time is calculated, and the at least one robot is instructed to pick items at the picking positions and place the items at the placing positions in an order determined by the respective picking times and placing times.

Abstract: A mail system including a tracking and reporting system that is adapted to integrate address information together with a unique code on at least one mailpiece, wherein the address information and code are linked, an in-process tracking and archiving system that is adapted to track the mailpiece as the address information and code are printed on the mailpiece and during a mailpiece insertion process to verify that the at least one mailpiece is inserted into a mailer and store an electronic copy of the mailpiece with the address information and code in an archive, an in-bound data capture of return mail system that scans the unique code and automatically links the mailpiece to account information stored in an account database and an postal address update and management system that is linked to a postal service database for verifying address information and correcting address errors.

Abstract: A trailer (10) or container (11) includes a frame (12) having a central axis (14) spaced between rear wheels. A plurality of storage supports (20) are supported on the trailer frame, with each storage support supporting a plurality of objects thereon. A carousel (24) rotates the plurality of storage supports, and a powered drive rotates the carousel. The system includes a storage location signal, a vehicle location signal, and a door closed signal which are each input to a controller (90) for controlling rotation of the carousel, so that goods to be unloaded are on a support which is rotated to an unloading position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a scalable freight loading system, especially for an aircraft, said system comprising drive means (L1-L9, R1-R9), covering sensors, bolts, proximity switches (PL1-PL9, PR1-PR9), and a central control device (CCB). According to the invention, the loading surface is divided into sectors (S1, S2, S3); a local control unit (SCB1, SCB2, SCB3) is associated with each sector; the drive means, covering sensors, and proximity switches of a sector are connected to IO ports of the local control unit; and the local control units are connected to the central control unit by means of a bus system (CAN-Bus).

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally provide apparatus and methods of handling a damaged substrate in substrate processing systems, such as screen printing systems for solar cell devices. The damaged substrate handling apparatus includes a container mounted centrally on a rotary actuator assembly. A plurality of substrate supports are arranged around the periphery of the rotary actuator assembly. Damaged substrates are transferred to the container from the substrate supports. Both automated and manual apparatus and methods are disclosed.

Abstract: A storage device transporter (400, 400b, 400c), for transporting a storage device (600) and for mounting a storage device within a test slot (500, 500b), includes a frame (410, 410b, 410c) configured to receive and support a storage device. The frame includes sidewalls (418, 425a, 425b, 429a, 429b) configured to receive a storage device there between and sized to be inserted into a test slot along with a storage device. The frame also includes a clamping mechanism (450) operatively associated with at least one of the sidewalls. The clamping mechanism includes a first engagement element (476, 700, 750) and a first actuator (454, 710, 760) operable to initiate movements of the first engagement element. The first actuator is operable to move the first engagement element into engagement with a test slot after a storage device being supported by the frame is arranged in a test position in a test slot.

Abstract: An indicator, such as an alarm or warning, is generated to indicate that a document storage cassette attached to a document handling device (e.g., a currency validator) has reached a particular capacity or is approaching its full capacity.

Abstract: A device for constructing an assembly of building components includes an articulating arm unit and a gripper/nailer mounted on an end of the articulating arm unit. The gripper/nailer includes a gripping unit for grasping building components and positioning them in a predetermined arrangement and a nailing unit for inserting a fastener to secure the building components together.

Abstract: A method to audit portable cassettes removeably disposed in a data storage library comprising a plurality of storage slots, a plurality of portable cassettes removeably disposed in one or more of said plurality of storage slots, and a pass-through accessor comprising a moveable fixturing apparatus, wherein the pass-through accessor is moveably disposed in said data storage library. The method disposes the pass-through accessor adjacent a first one of said plurality of storage slots, removes a first portable cassette from the first storage slot, and attaches the first portable cassette to a first fixturing assembly disposed on the fixturing apparatus. The method then removes a second portable cassette from the first storage slot, and attaches the second portable cassette to a second fixturing assembly disposed on the fixturing apparatus.

Abstract: Techniques for construction and operation of a programmable product picking apparatus are described herein. Such an apparatus picks up product according to a first spacing (e.g., from a conveyor) and releases the product according to a second spacing (e.g., into a carton). In one possible configuration, a fixed matrix plate defines at least first and second rows of slots. Two movable matrix plates, one that moves right-then-left and one that moves left-then-right, move in opposite directions parallel to the fixed matrix plate according to strokes of pneumatic cylinders. Each of a plurality of product pickers is driven by one of the two movable matrix plates. As that plate moves, the product picker is also moved according to a slot defined in the movable matrix plate. Each product picker comes to a stop when it reaches an end of a slot defined in the fixed matrix plate.

Abstract: A system for transporting inventory items includes an inventory holder capable of storing inventory items and a mobile drive unit. The mobile drive unit is capable of moving to a first point with the inventory holder at least one of coupled to and supported by the mobile drive unit. The mobile drive unit is additionally capable of determining a location of the inventory holder and calculating a difference between the location of the inventory holder and the first point. The mobile drive unit is then capable of determining whether the difference is greater than a predetermined tolerance. In response to determining that the difference is greater than the predetermined tolerance, the mobile drive unit is also capable of moving to a second point based on the location of the inventory holder, docking with the inventory holder, and moving the mobile drive unit and the inventory holder to the first point.

Abstract: A sortation conveyor includes a method of calibrating the control system to provide a calibration value indicative of the spacial correlation between the sort induct sensor and the first shoe sensor.