Abstract: In a preferred implementation, an automated pharmacy admixture system (APAS) prepares intermediary IV bags as drug sources for creating highly diluted patient doses in syringes. During the compounding process the APAS may align needles with a vial seal opening so as to ensure repeated entry through the same vial puncture site via precise control of needle position, needle bevel orientation, and needle entry speed. These techniques can in certain implementations substantially improve bung pressure sealing and reduced particulate generation. The APAS optionally creates drug order queues for incoming drug orders wherein the orders can be sorted by priority, drug type or patient location. A phantom queue can be combined with the incoming drug order queues to include frequently used medicaments to minimize operator loading of the APAS.

Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for performing data library background operations. The present invention teaches one or more data storage drives capable of entering a phantom load mode and a library controller capable of initiating the phantom load mode for the data storage drives. The phantom load mode operates to hide the media status of the data storage drives from host computers during background operations involving the data storage drives. In certain embodiments, the data storage drives exit the phantom load mode as a result of a media unload request. In some embodiments, the library controller receives a media load request from a host computer during the background operation and completes the media load request upon completion of the background operation.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for locating stored goods. A plurality of fixed contactless identification devices are deployed in an area. Each fixed device exhibits a fixed device identifier that can be read from a distance. Locations within the area are identified through mapping to combinations of fixed device identifiers detected at the location. In addition, a plurality of movable contactless identification devices are associated with goods to be stored and retrieved. Each movable device exhibits a movable device identifier, and movable contactless identification devices are located by identifying a combination of fixed device identifiers received when a movable device identifier is received. The location information may be used independently, or as a supplement to expected location information obtained through other means.

Abstract: In accordance with one or more aspects of the disclosed embodiment an apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a pick head configured to transfer sample containers to and from a sample group holder, at least one sensor connected to the pick head and configured to detect at least one predetermined feature of the sample group holder, and a controller configured to receive a detection signal from the at least one sensor corresponding to detection of the at least one predetermined feature, determine a change in a predetermined characteristic of the sample group holder based on a detected position of the at least one predetermined feature, and determine a location of one or more samples in the sample group holder to allow for the transfer of the one or more sample containers to and from the sample group holder based on the edge detection signal.

Abstract: The invention relates to an unstacker device for unstacking flat articles, said unstacker device including: first detection means for detecting transitions between article types; at least first and second specialized unstacking programs and a default unstacking program, which programs are suitable for maintaining respectively a first nominal gap, a second nominal gap, and a default nominal gap, between two consecutive flat articles; and a monitoring/control unit arranged for automatically executing said default unstacking program in response to detection of said transition, for counting said flat articles subsequent to said transition, and, in response to a predetermined counting threshold being reached, for executing, for said subsequent flat articles and until the next transition detection, the corresponding one of said first and second specialized unstacking programs. The invention also relates to a method of unstacking flat articles using said unstacker device.

Abstract: A system for easily locating goods stored in a storage area including a computer coupled with a radio frequency transmitter or transceivers and goods placed in containers that are coupled to hangers that each has distinct electronic addresses. The hangers each have a hook that allows the hangers to be stored on rails coupled to racks in a storage area. The identifications of the goods and the electronic addresses for the corresponding hangers are associated with each other and stored on a computer database. When a user wants to pick up goods stored in the containers, the user inputs the identification for the goods and the computer will cause the radio frequency transmitter to emit a data packet that includes a search address and illumination data. The hangers each compare the search address to the electronic address and if there is a match, the hanger illuminates the light according to the illumination data.

Abstract: A method and system for storage of respiratory produce includes a storage environment, a gas analyze, a CO2 scrubber, a gas sampling pump, a gas pump for the scrubber, an air supply, an N2 supply and valves for flow control. The control system is a software assisted measurement system and control algorithm that takes into account the gas exchange dynamics of both the produce and the storage environment and a mathematical model for determining the actual respiratory and fermentative rates of the produce. The system is suitable for low oxygen storage of respiratory produce.

Abstract: A system and a method for managing solder paste are disclosed. The storage information of solder paste cans stored in a storage room is established, production information is accessed from a production managing system for analyzing an amount of solder paste cans in need, the solder paste cans to be used are inquired and obtained from the storage room, and the solder paste cans are delivered to the warm up room for warm up treatment. The solder paste is thus systematically managed, such that the efficacy of management is improved and labor cost is reduced.

Abstract: A dedicated self-service return terminal is provided for receiving returned media on which entertainment data is stored. The dedicated self-service return terminal comprises a media transporter having a media return slot through which returned media can be received from a customer returning the media, a removable media storage bin for storing returned media which has been received through the slot, a container having a chamber in which the media storage bin is installed when the media storage bin is in use, a sliding mechanism arranged to support the container for vertical sliding movement between a top position in which the media storage bin can receive returned media received through the slot and a bottom position in which the media storage bin can be removed from the container, and a controller arranged to control the sliding mechanism to effect movement of the container between the top and bottom positions during operation of the dedicated self-service return terminal.

Abstract: An automated data storage library having a plurality of multi-cartridge deep slot cells, each configured to store a plurality of data storage cartridges arranged in sequential order of tiers from front to rear, and having accessor(s) to selectively extract, place and transport cartridges with respect to the cells; operating the accessor(s) to selectively extract, place and transport cartridges with respect to the multi-cartridge deep slot cells and with respect to other elements of the automated data storage library; filling at least the frontmost tier of vacant at least selected multi-cartridge deep slot cells in the selectively extracting, placing and transporting step in accordance with a predetermined algorithm, while leaving other tiers vacant. If the frontmost tier is full, a cartridge is placed into the one of the selected multi-cartridge deep slot cells having the factored greatest number of tiers available to place a cartridge.

Abstract: An intelligent shelving system and associated dividing element. One or more dividing elements are arranged to communicate with a controller, each of the one or more dividing elements including an antenna having a detection plane and a base for placement on a shelf. The detection plane of the antenna is configured so as to be substantially parallel to the base. Each of the one or more dividing elements is arranged to identify electronically tagged items falling within the detection plane of its respective antenna and communicate data on said identified items to the controller.

Abstract: A robotic tape library which queues two or more move instructions is described. Generally, the robotic system receives a first move instruction which commands a first robot to move a first tape cartridge from a shelf to a first tape drive to be loaded therein. Though the first move has not actually taken place, the library replies to the host computer that the first tape drive has been loaded with the first tape cartridge, at least to an acceptable level of engagement, at which point, the first move instruction is queued. After receiving a second move instruction from the host to move a second tape cartridge from the shelf to a second tape drive, the library reorganizes and physically carries out the move instructions with potentially different hardware in a preferred order.

Abstract: A substrate supporting apparatus includes a pallet on which a substrate is mounted, a pallet double-end holding mechanism holding both ends of the pallet in a diameter direction while the pallet is in a vertical posture, a pallet center holding mechanism rotatably holding a center section of the pallet, and a moving mechanism moving an apparatus body, wherein the pallet double-end holding mechanism is a mechanism that grips both ends of the pallet in the diameter direction from both sides of a thickness direction, the pallet double-end holding mechanism holds the pallet during movement, the pallet is held by both of the holding mechanisms during delivery from the pallet double-end holding mechanism to the pallet center holding mechanism, and the pallet center holding mechanism rotatably holds the center section of the pallet and holding by the pallet double-end holding mechanism is released during substrate processing.

Abstract: The invention describes a goods distribution center (1) and a method for its operation for goods (9) to be handled preferably in partitioned storage and transport containers (8) with at least two storage areas (5, 7) for groups of goods with varying turnover frequencies. It comprises an incoming goods area (2), an outgoing goods area (6) and at least one order picking area (4). Conveying devices (10) form for example conveyor belts, roller conveyors, storage and retrieval means (12), e.g. shelf operating devices. Storage devices form e.g. high shelf, flow shelf storage etc. Furthermore, data input and output devices (26) are provided at workstations (18) and connected communicatively with a storage, control and monitoring device (25). The conveying devices (10) of the incoming goods area (2) and the order picking area (4) are in the form of continuous conveying devices (14, 16), which are connected via transfer conveying means (15) to one another and to storage and retrieval means (12).

Abstract: A method is provided to handle portable cassettes removeably disposed in a data storage library, wherein the method supplies a data storage library comprising a plurality of storage slots, and a plurality of portable cassettes removeably disposed a designated storage slot in a first alignment order, and a pass-through accessor comprising a moveable fixturing apparatus to store portable cassettes, wherein the pass-through accessor is moveably disposed in the data storage library. The method positions the pass-through accessor adjacent an open end of a designated storage slot, and sequentially removes and attaches to the fixturing apparatus a plurality of portable cassettes from the designated storage slot. The method then transports the plurality of portable cassettes to a designated location within the data storage library.

Abstract: A library apparatus includes a robot which transports a transportable medium, an objective unit including a light receptor of the objective unit and a light emitter of the objective unit which emits light to the outside of the objective unit when light is received by the light receptor of the objective unit. The robot includes a light emitter of the robot opposite to the light receptor of the objective unit that emits light to the light receptor of the objective unit at the time of positioning of the robot at the objective unit, and a light receptor of the robot opposite to the light emitter of the objective unit that receives light from the light emitter of the objective unit at the time of positioning of the robot at the objective unit.

Abstract: System and method for sortation of picked inventory into individual orders in an order fulfillment process, for example order fulfillment processes in materials handling facilities. Collections of items picked from inventory for multiple orders are stowed to locations at a stow and sortation station. The items for a particular order may be stowed to two or more different locations, and items for two or more orders may be stowed to one location; no particular location is assigned to or reserved for each order. Thus, no space is allocated or reserved for incomplete orders at the station. When all items for a particular order are stowed to locations at the station, the order may be picked from the various locations at the station and placed into order receptacles. The order receptacles may be shipping containers.

Abstract: A behavior control apparatus collects information of a mobile object in relation to an action space of the mobile object, and acquires a position and an orientation of a human. The behavior control apparatus sets an exclusive area for the human based on the position and the orientation, and judges whether any information is to be notified to the human by the mobile object. If judging negatively, the behavior control apparatus determines a target position, a target orientation and a travel route of the mobile object such that the mobile object moves out of the exclusive area.

Abstract: A robotic retail wall is presented allowing for the dispensing of merchandise within a retail location. The robotic wall includes commodity products and robotics that pick and deliver products to consumers in response to input at a kiosk. The robotics and products are separated from a retail space by a transparent barrier, allowing consumers in the retail space to view the actions of the robotics in retrieving a product. Behind the robotic wall is a product stocking area, where commodity products can be added to the robotic wall with assistance from the robotics.

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: The present subject matter relates to techniques and equipment for processing mailpieces. The mailpieces have been manufacture on a mailpiece inserter or directly from a printer The manufactured mailpieces are processed on a mail sorter to produce trays of mail that are grouped by zone improvement program. The mailpieces are sorted without a predefined sort scheme loaded on the mail sorter.

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with charging merchandise items are presented. A method of charging merchandise items includes displaying merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. A first powers supply charges a portion of the display that does not include the merchandise items and a second power supply charges the merchandise items. The merchandise items are charged at the display on a multiplexed basis. An alarm is generated if the first power supply or the second power supply looses power but not if the first and second power supply loose power.

Abstract: Generation of a plan for loading or unloading a variety of objects into a container. Such objects can comprise irregularly-shaped objects, regularly-shaped object, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, a method enables such generation, wherein the method can comprise the steps of storing a model for each object of a plurality of objects, each model comprising a weight, a center of gravity, and a shape of the associated object, and storing a plurality of parameters associated with the container. The method can comprise the steps of selecting a set of one or more objects, from the plurality of objects, to be loaded into the container, and generating an optimized sequence for loading the set of one or more objects into the container, based on at least the weight, the center of gravity, the shape of each of the one or more objects, and the parameters associated with the container.

Abstract: An automated, refrigerated specimen management system (ARSIMS) to hold sealed and/or opened sample/specimen tubes and/or containers that can be in the pre-analytical, in-process, or post-analytical phase of processing. The ARSIMS ensures that each sample/specimen tube, whether it is sealed, capped, closed or open, can be stored at an ideal storage temperature according to the particular phase of processing and as appropriate for the combination of sample/specimen type and analyte(s) to be tested.

Abstract: A method and system for agent exchange-based materials handling. According to one embodiment, a method of agent exchange-based order fulfillment may include a number of agents moving along respective paths through an inventory storage area of a materials handling facility. While moving through the inventory storage area, a portion of the number of agents may respectively select one or more of a number of items stored within the inventory storage area, where each one of the selected items is specified in a corresponding customer order or materials request. The method may also include conveying the selected items to one or more corresponding processing areas of the materials handling facility in order to fulfill the corresponding customer orders. Further, at least some of the selected items may be exchanged one or more times among the agents in the course of being conveyed to corresponding processing areas.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for multi-destination pick using motes. In embodiments, each receptacle may be assigned to a destination and may have a sensor that detects when an item is placed in the receptacle to deactivate the indicator and/or to verify that the item was placed in the correct receptacle. The sensor may be coupled via a wired or wireless connection to a mote that may include a communication interface for communicating with a control system and with other motes in an ad-hoc network. In some embodiments, each mote may also include an indicator that may be activated by a control system to indicate to the agent that the receptacle is the destination receptacle for a picked item. The agent may then place the item in the indicated destination receptacle. In one embodiment, the mote on the destination receptacle may be activated when the picked item is scanned by the agent.

Abstract: A system and method for processing mailpieces within a mail transportation and distribution system includes first and second distribution centers, and an electronic parcel compartment facility located near the second center. Data, about the mailpiece and recipient, is acquired from the mailpiece. Destination information for a compartment facility is associated with the mailpiece. The information is compared with a registered customer database. A re-routing instruction is ascertained from the customer data. The second center is ascertained. The mailpiece is sorted in the first center based on the destination. Data about the mailpiece and destination is transmitted to a second data processor of the second center. The mailpiece is transported to the second center. Information identifying the mailpiece is acquired with a reading device. The destination is determined based on information identifying the mailpiece, which is sorted based on the destination. The information is transmitted to a mobile device.

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: In an automated data storage library having a plurality of multi-cartridge deep slot cells, each configured to store a plurality of data storage cartridges arranged in sequential order of tiers from front to rear, and having accessor(s) configured to selectively extract, place and transport cartridges with respect to the cells; operating the accessor(s) to selectively extract, place and transport data storage cartridges with respect to the multi-cartridge deep slot cells and with respect to other elements of the automated data storage library; filling at least the frontmost tier of vacant at least selected multi-cartridge deep slot cells in the selectively extracting, placing and transporting step in accordance with a predetermined algorithm, while leaving other tiers vacant. If the frontmost tier is full, a data storage cartridge is placed into the one of the selected multi-cartridge deep slot cells having the factored greatest number of tiers available to place a data storage cartridge.

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 vacuum processing apparatus transfers a wafer between a first transfer arm and a second transfer arm via a rotary stage; acquires position data of a peripheral portion of the wafer by using a line sensor while rotating the rotary stage sustaining the wafer before a vacuum process thereon; calculates a center position and a direction of the wafer based on the position data; controls a rotation of the rotary stage to adjust the direction of the wafer based on the calculation result; and controls the second transfer arm such that the second transfer arm conveys the wafer to a wafer mounting member inside a vacuum processing chamber while allowing a center of the wafer to be aligned to a center of the mounting member based on the calculation result.

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 method for management of first in, first out stores is provided. The method includes producing parts at a primary process. The parts are processed at a secondary process. A storage region is provided that includes at least one store lane pair including a first store lane and a second store lane. The first store lane includes a pick side, a drop side and a plurality of receiving volumes extending from the pick side to the drop side. The second store lane includes a pick side, a drop side and a plurality of receiving volumes extending from the pick side to the drop side. The receiving volumes of the first store lane are filled with the parts in the order they are produced at the primary process in a first in, first out fashion from the pick side of the first store lane to the drop side of the first store lane using an automated guided vehicle sized and configured to pass through each of the plurality of receiving volumes.

Abstract: Methods and devices provide flexible demarcation points in order to determine whether access to individual stackers, rollers or areas in a cash handling device should be allowed. A plurality of stackers may be provided in a cash handling device and may store different denominations of currency. An input means may receive user input to request access to one or more of the stackers. One or more variables stored in memory may indicate whether user access is authorized for a given stacker. One or more electromechanical locks may secure one or more of the stackers. Computer-executable instructions executing on a processor may access the variable(s) in order to determine whether to allow user access to a requested stacker and may unlock the lock if access is authorized.

Abstract: A method and a configuration for handling objects, wherein a multiplicity of objects are stored in a storage container and one or more objects to be processed are divided from objects to remain in storage.

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 computer model is formed of a mounting component (18) to be mounted at a target location on a mounting surface (12) of a base component (11). A position and viewing direction of a digital camera (3) is determined relative to the base component (11) and a live image (11?) of the base component as viewed by the camera (3) is displayed on a monitor (4). The monitor (4) also displays a mounting component target image (18?) generated by a computer (2) of the mounting component (18) mounted at the target location on the mounting surface (12) superimposed over the live image (11?) of the base component. A user physically moves the mounting component (18) relative to the base component (11) until a live image of the mounting component as viewed by the camera (3) coincides with the mounting component target image (18?).

Abstract: An external load port magazine for use with a storage unit includes a casing detachably mountable on an exterior of the storage unit and defining therein a space for holding at least one item to be loaded into the storage unit. An opening is formed in the casing for enabling automatic withdrawal or insertion of the at least one item from or into the space when the casing is mounted on the exterior of the storage unit. A mechanism is provided for moving the at least one stored item towards the opening.

Abstract: Based on the positions of a first marker and a second marker of a first substrate placed on a placing surface of a substrate placing table (1), a substrate processing apparatus makes the direction of a line connecting the first marker and the second marker accord with the moving direction of a gantry (2). The positions of the first marker and a third marker, in the state that the direction of the line connecting the first marker and the second marker accord with the moving direction, are stored in a storage section. After a second substrate is placed on the placing surface of the substrate placing table (1), the direction of a line connecting the first marker and the third marker on the second substrate is made to accord with the direction of a line connecting the first marker and the third marker calculated from the position of the third marker and the fourth marker on the first substrate stored in the storage section.

Abstract: A library has a physical cartridge access port (PCAP) for receiving cartridges which are to be entered/ejected into/out of the library. The library is partitioned into partitions each having a set of the library cells such that the library appears to a host as multiple libraries with each partition appearing to the host as a respective one of the multiple libraries. Some cells are reserved for use by the partitions as virtual cartridge access ports (VCAPs) which appear to the host as being the PCAP such that cartridges, which are to be ejected out of the partitions, are exported from the cells of the partitions to the VCAPs for subsequent transfer from the VCAPs to the PCAP, and such that cartridges, which are to be entered into the partitions, are imported from the VCAPs to the cells of the partitions after having been moved from the PCAP to the VCAPs.

Abstract: In an automated data storage library having a plurality of multi-cartridge deep slot cells, each configured to store a plurality of data storage cartridges arranged in sequential order of tiers from front to rear, and having accessor(s) configured to selectively extract, place and transport cartridges with respect to the cells; operating the accessor(s) to selectively extract, place and transport cartridges with respect to the cells and with respect to other elements of the library. If all tiers of the selected cells except the rearmost tier are full, added cartridges are placed to fill the rearmost tier of an evenly spread selection of the cells.

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: An apparatus is provided for processing documents, such as mail contained in envelopes. The operator drops the documents toward a conveyor that serially convey the documents to an imaging device that acquires image data relating to the image of each document. A conveyor conveys the documents from the imaging device to one or more output bins.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to staging manufactured items and provide a method, system and computer program product for staging items in a manufacturing environment. In an embodiment of the invention, a method for staging items in a manufacturing environment can be provided. The method can include defining attributes of staging locations in a distribution area of the manufacturing environment, defining a set of staging strategies for use in the distribution area of the manufacturing environment, receiving a manufactured item in the distribution area and obtaining characteristics of the manufactured item, and comparing the obtained characteristics of the manufactured item to the set of staging strategies to select the staging strategy to apply to the manufactured item.

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: An apparatus for controlling secure access and storage of at least two different types of articles is disclosed. The apparatus includes a plurality of compartments for articles, the compartments arranged in a rotatable cylindrical array with one opening for each compartment on the surface of the cylinder. A linearly driven belt having an access port thereon limits access to a single compartment. The compartments may be of equal or different size to accept different articles. A sliding door, positionable over an opening in the housing, provides additional security. A drawer with additional compartments may be included in the apparatus in addition to the cylindrical array. Certain compartments may have an assignment linking them to other compartments in the cylindrical array or drawer, allowing for the secure and separate storage of sets of related articles, such as the keys, registration and/or license plate of a car.

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: 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: An access and storage system including a storage component configured to store an item therein or thereon in an associated storage position, wherein the storage component is configured to provide a user direct manual access to the item in the storage position. The system further includes a sensor system configured to track at least one of a user's removal of the item from the associated storage position or replacement of the item to the associated storage position. The sensor system operates independently of any sensor component secured to the item.

Abstract: Described is a tape library which can generally include a tape drive, a tape cartridge that possesses a medium auxiliary memory device, a device for reading information retained on the medium auxiliary memory device and a program that runs on a processor capable of manipulating information received by the reading device. The tape cartridge's medium auxiliary memory device can contain at least one record of a previous access event, such as an approximate point in time when the tape cartridge is loaded in the tape drive. The program may be operable to determine how much time has elapsed from the access event. Knowledge of the elapsed time can, among other things, cause an action to be taken relative to the tape cartridge and/or the data thereon. A method of using the system is also described.