Abstract: A parts assembly management system includes a parts assembly management apparatus to be installed in an assembly line, and a plurality of storage vessel identifying apparatuses to be installed in a plurality of storage vessels. The parts assembly management apparatus includes a reading apparatus, and a first processing unit. The reading apparatus contactlessly reads a product identifier identifying the product from an IC tag attached to the product. The processing unit extracts a vessel identifier associated with the product identifier identifying the product from an assembling table. Each of the storage vessel identifying apparatuses includes a receiving unit, a second processing unit, and an output unit. The receiving unit receives the extracted vessel identifier from the parts assembly management apparatus. The processing unit performs comparison between the associated vessel identifier received by the receiving unit and a specific vessel identifier identifying the associated vessel.

Abstract: A method of assembling an object using a component that has coded data on it, or in it. The coded data is indicative of the components identity and at least one of: i) a position of the sensed coded data portion; ii) a position of the sensing device relative to the interface surface; iii) an orientation of the sensed coded data; and, iv) an orientation of the sensing device relative to the interface surface. The coded data is read by a sensing device. The method involves using the sensing device to generate indicating data to identify the component and orientation data of the component, then transferring the indicating data to at least one of: an assembly system which is responsive to the indication to assemble the object; and, a computer system which is responsive to the indication to cause an assembly system to assemble the object.

Abstract: A product and document fulfilment system for merging together discrete articles and specific documentation which pertains to each discrete article, and for packaging and labelling the same. The system comprises an article conveyor on which discrete articles are carried seriatim, a first machine code reader for reading the unique machine readable code on each discrete article, a printer for printing a specific document pertaining to the article, instruction control means governing the delivery of the appropriate document to be merged with the article, a merging station where the specific document and the article are merged, a second machine code reader for reading the machine readable code on the specific document, first memory and counter means for recognizing the identity of the discrete article at the merging station, and accept/reject means to accept the merged article and specific document when a match occurs, or reject the item when no match occurs.

Abstract: A system and method for carrier transport traffic management. A host computer connects to a fabrication tool, configured to acquire an available number of a resource type for the fabrication tool upon detecting a fabrication tool loadport of the fabrication tool is available. A material transport system connects to the host computer, receives the available number of a resource type for the fabrication tool, acquires a carrier identity corresponding to a carrier, acquires a required number of the resource type corresponding to the carrier, and issues a load command to an automated material handling system (AMHS) to transport the carrier to the fabrication tool if the available number of the resource type exceeds or equals to the required number of the resource type.

Abstract: The present invention is an item location directory method and system which involves the use of item-identifying bar codes on the items to be included in the directory, and location-identifying bar codes physically applied to the corresponding locations. These are read in a preset manner with a bar code reader and inputted into a processor for creation of item/corresponding location data for the directories.

Abstract: The present invention contributes to advancements in the art of inventory management and distribution by providing a system and method for processing, distributing, and tracking reusable inventory items. Reusable articles, such as surgical garments and accessories, are adapted with radio frequency identification (“RFID”) tags having unique identification numbers. A “reader” is used to retrieve stored information from the tags without requiring direct contact or clear line-of-sight. The reusable articles are processed and distributed using an inventory management system wherein lifecycle data is obtained for each reusable article. The reusable articles are distributed to the end users from central processing facilities, used, returned, cleaned, inspected, folded, sterilized, and returned to inventory for re-distribution. Periodic quality control inspections are conducted in response to predetermined usage parameters.

Abstract: A substrate transfer system is used in fabricating a liquid crystal display (LCD) device. The system includes a cassette having a bar code, a cassette stocker to store the cassette; an auto guided vehicle that is able to transfer the cassette; a moving path unit to determine a moving path of the auto guided vehicle, a plurality of process stages at which processes are conducted on a substrate during fabrication of the LCD device, and a host to control the cassette stocker, the auto guided vehicle and the process stages. At least one of the auto guided vehicle and the cassette stocker having a bar code reader.

Abstract: There is provided an article management system having a plurality of article management apparatus that are arranged at the respective process stage position in a production line and read information by RF tag readers from an article RF tag affixed to each of articles contained in a case and a case RF tag attached to each of the cases. A server connected to the respective article management apparatus for managing ID information on the articles, quantity of the articles, current process stage positions for each of the cases and other items. With this system, production management for the articles contained in the cases can be performed in a short time without being interrupted, even if some of the tags have become damaged and reading from the tags is impaired.

Abstract: Automated closet systems and related methods that use digital imagery, RFID/barcode identification of garment hangers, and computer-controlled conveyors, to provide for image-based garment storage and retrieval. Digital garment photographs are stored in a database. Hangers have a unique RFID/barcode tag and hold garments. The RFID/barcode tag of each hanger is correlated to a garment photograph to which the hanger is assigned. A storage closet has a storage conveyer on which hangers are disposed. A pickup and loading station has a conveyer coupled to the storage conveyer that is used to transfer hangers to and from the storage conveyer. A control unit, such as a wireless touchscreen, is used during storage to initiate photographing, scanning, and transfer of garments to the storage closet. During retrieval, a user searches through digital images displayed on the control unit to find a stored garment for retrieval. Selection of a particular garment identifies a particular RFID/barcode tag.

Abstract: In one aspect and one example, a method for calibrating robotic picker mechanisms in automated storage library systems includes detecting a calibration mark with at least one sensor from a first position and a second position, where the first position and the second position are separated by an offset distance. Further, the method includes determining a shift in the calibration mark between the first position and the second position, and determining a distance between a reference position and the calibration mark based on the shift in the calibration mark, the offset distance, and the focal length of the sensor.

Abstract: A method for sorting integrated circuit (IC) devices of the type having a fuse identification (ID) into those devices requiring enhanced reliability testing and those requiring standard testing includes storing fabrication deviation data, probe data, and test data in association with the fuse ID of each of the devices indicating each of the devices requires either enhanced reliability testing or standard testing. The fuse ID of each of the devices is then automatically read before, during, or after standard testing of the devices. The testing process requirement data stored in association with the fuse ID of each of the devices is then accessed, and the devices are sorted in accordance with the accessed data into those devices requiring enhanced reliability testing and those requiring standard testing.

Abstract: A pharmaceutical hazardous waste identification and management system integrates disparate information regarding pharmaceuticals to provide an indication of which pharmaceuticals are hazardous wastes as defined by respective national, international and state regulations and/or which are hazardous materials as defined by the US OSHA regulations. A subset of this information offers a global repository with respect to the occurrence, concentrations, and ecotoxicologic data of pharmaceuticals based on peer reviewed data provided by environmental toxicologists and related scientists.

Abstract: A food information management system includes a food database (11) containing food cooking conditions for cooking foods, and nutritive ingredients, energy-producing values and weight of foods, and information storage mediums (20, 20a). Each information storage medium is attached to a food package (21a) containing a processed food (21) and storing food information including food ID information specifying a food. When cooling the processed food (21), the food ID information stored in the food information storage medium (20, 20a) is read by a read means. Food information about a food specified by the food ID information is retrieved from the food database (11), an output means receives the food information, and a display means displays the food information.

Abstract: An electrical connection of a transfer station releasably, repeatably electrically couples with respect to a matching connection of a portable cartridge. A substrate in the portable cartridge has electrical contacts on a facing surface. In the transfer station, a matching circuitized flexible substrate has electrical contacts on a facing surface thereof, which are arranged to match the portable cartridge electrical contacts when in a face-to-face relationship. An elastomeric compression element, at the rear of the matching substrate, has individual protruding compression members contacting the rear surface and registered with corresponding individual electrical contacts. Elongated electrical contacts are registered with two adjacent individual compression members.

Abstract: A RFID method for storing products in a defined location is provided to minimize undesired combinations of stored products resulting from improper placement of the products in the storage location. RFID smart tags are associated with any products to be stored within the storage location, the smart tags containing information to identify the product they are associated with. A product profile is compiled and stored for any products to be stored within the storage location, the profile may include information on products, materials, and substances that should not be stored together or in close proximity to the profiled product. A smart tag scanner is disposed at a position relative to the storage location such that the scanner is within range of any smart tag associated with a stored product at any position within the storage location, the smart tag scanner configured to retrieve the product identification information from the smart tags.

Abstract: A system and method for wafer lot identity (ID) management including a storage device and an information process module. The storage device is capable of storing a plurality of ID mapping records, each ID mapping record storing a client lot ID and a supplier lot ID relationship. The information process module is configured to receive an information request with the client lot ID from a client, acquire the supplier lot ID from the ID mapping record according to the received client lot ID, acquire manufacturing information or logistical information according to the acquired supplier lot ID, and send the manufacturing information or the logistical information to the client.

Abstract: A method for forming an apparatus for storing and releasing containers (C1–C15) or such substantially box-shaped storing devices, comprising at least rails (28) having thereon a series of trolleys (14) mobile on the rails, on which trolleys the containers can be carried, the rails being supported by a supporting frame (54), which supporting frame is substantially built up from a series of standard modules, while, for a location, it is determined how many containers (7) are to be potentially storable therein, after which a construction for a supporting frame is determined on the basis of the modules, which modules are subsequently packaged and transported to said location, where the construction is built up from at least the modules.

Abstract: A method and system for a reject management protocol within a back-end IC manufacturing process. In one method embodiment, the present invention implements a tracking process for a die-strip. The present invention also maintains an electronic die-strip map database, and utilizes the tracking process to update the electronic die-strip map database as the die-strip moves in an in-line fashion from one sub-station to another within the manufacturing process. Information used to update the database can originate from one or more automated visual camera systems used for quality assurance. In so doing, the present invention categorizes the die on the die-strip based on information maintained by the electronic die-strip map database. This information can be used for die sorting and for die rejection. In one embodiment, an identifying code is placed on each die strip that can automatically identify the die-strip using the automated camera systems.

Abstract: A method for semi-autonomous operation of a robotic device in a room. In the method, one or more goal points are set and the distances between the robotic device and the one or more goal points are determined. A first one of the one or more goal points is selected and the robotic device is maneuvered to travel to the first one of the one or more goal points.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sequencing articles via a single sort pass or process includes a plurality of article receivers or collators positioned along a conveying or transport path and a plurality of carriages movable along the path. The carriages receive articles from at least one induct in a generally random manner and discharge the articles at the appropriate collators. The collators are operable to selectively receive the articles at an appropriate one of a plurality of bins of the collators, such that the articles are positioned within the bins of the collators in a sequenced manner. The articles may be unloaded to a plurality of collecting devices and/or manually unloaded and placed or stacked in a container in the desired sequence. The collecting devices may be manually unloaded while the collators simultaneously selectively receive articles during a subsequent sort wave or process.

Abstract: A method and system for monitoring assets using radio frequency tags is provided that includes a plurality of primary tags. Each primary tag stores an identification of each linked tag associated with the primary tag. The primary tag receives a polling event and transmits a query message for linked tags within an operational range of the primary tag. Each linked tag receiving the query message transmits a response message that includes an identification of the linked tag. The primary tag receives the response messages and compares the identifications in the response messages to the identifications stored for each linked tag. Based on the comparison, the primary tag determines a monitored asset status.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for routing shipments according to criticality includes accessing an initial solution to an optimization problem of routing multiple shipments to multiple locations using multiple vehicles, the initial solution including multiple loads such that each shipment is routed within exactly one load and a global cost across all loads is minimized, the initial solution being generated independent of the criticality of the shipments. Into each of one or more critical loads in a current solution, one or more non-critical shipments are inserted that are within a neighborhood of the critical load, a critical load being a load containing at least one critical shipment.

Abstract: A method and system for the efficient bulk package delivery for recipients. Items ordered by different customers from different retailers, suppliers or manufacturers can be organized by common item identifiers and shipped in bulk from retailers or manufacturers, to an origination regional distribution center. The items can be sorted at the origination regional distribution center in bulk based on the location of destination regional distribution centers that can serve destination centralized pickup locations chosen by the customers placing the orders for those items. Ordered items can be sorted by recipient and the destination centralized pickup location specified in the customer's order and packed into recipient-specific packages at the destination regional distribution center.

Abstract: A package delivery notification system reports impending package deliveries and precisely notifies recipients of when to expect the deliveries. The package delivery notification system utilizes memory, a communications device, and a system manager. Package data identifying a package that is to be delivered to a recipient is stored in the memory. The package data indicates that the recipient is to receive the package and indicates the expected time that the package is to be delivered. When the package is assigned to a vehicle that will deliver the package to a premises of the recipient, the system manager transmits, via the communications device, a notification message to the recipient. The notification message preferably indicates the approximate time that the package is expected to arrive.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for creating an exclusive ID to a split lot in a multiple-plant enterprise. When a lot is divided, the split lot is first assigned a main code by a main ID unit. When the split lot is divided in the initial plant, a split ID unit assigns a split code to the split lot according to a sequence. When the split lot is not divided in the initial plant, the split ID unit assigns a plant code and a split code according to a sequence to the split lot. All of the codes of the lot are stored in an ID storage unit for lot administration.

Abstract: A interactive system for chemical and biological testing with the instant data processing and information analysis capability. The system utilizes a specially designed bio-disc and an optical reader attached to a computer to deliver a wide range of tests, such as clinical laboratory diagnostic tests, biological warfare agent detection, forensic DNA tests, and food and water contamination tests, to a remote location. The test data are analyzed by a central data processing unit connected to the computer through a network, and the result is distributed to authorized users through the network. The interactive system also offer users enhanced information and additional relevant products at the point of need.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for the exchange of power-supplied batteries which are arranged in a media-conveying untethered robot which is located in an automated data-storage library.

Abstract: An automated data storage library is partitioned into multiple logical libraries. A cartridge memory attached to each data storage cartridge in the library is used to hold library identification information. The library identification information is used to associate each data cartridge with one or more logical libraries. The library identification information may also be used to associate each data storage cartridge to an automated data storage library.

Abstract: A control circuit of a tray changer is interfaced with a control circuit of a robot. A tray changer control program, used for operating the tray changer, is loaded into the robot control system. The robot control system itself, or an operator manipulating an operating terminal of the robot, controls or operates the tray changer according to the tray changer control program loaded in the robot control system.

Abstract: An inventory system includes a plurality of mobile drive units with a processor control and with a positioning system that enables the mobile drive units to navigate a factory floor. The mobile drive units interface with a material handling system to receive order requests and deliver inventory items to pack stations located on the factory floor. The inventory items are stored in trays stacked into movable inventory pods, which may be transported by the mobile drive units throughout the factory floor. The mobile drive units dock and undock with the movable inventory pods using a docking mechanism. The movable inventory pods are stored in a virtual storage grid when they are not being transported by the mobile drive units. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure.

Abstract: A cartridge memory attached to each data storage cartridge in an automated data storage library is used to hold library identification information. The library identification information may be used to associate each data storage cartridge to an automated data storage library. In an automated data storage library that is partitioned into two or more logical libraries, the library identification information may be used to associate each data storage cartridge to a logical library.

Abstract: A method 10 for maintaining the quality of produced goods by selectively, automatically, and remotely identifying the location of the goods 11 within a storage facility 19, thereby allowing modifications to be efficiently made to the located goods 11 in order to maintain the quality of the goods 11.

Abstract: Track anomalies in an automated storage library are detected by transmitting a track health signal from one portion of the track. The presence of a track anomaly is determined based on any reception of the transmitted signal at another portion of the track.

Abstract: The present invention reveals a sorting system for use in manual sorting, which presents a detached ephemeral display moving in a manner corresponding to the movement of the article, by which an article to be sorted can be quickly and easily identified. To accomplish its purpose, the device comprises: feed conveyors; a switching unit; optical readers positioned to capture destination indicia affixed to each article; a detached moving display which remains close to the article to be sorted and presents information representative of the article's destination location; a destination location which signals when a related article is approaching; and a controller capable of assigning destination locations and controlling display devices.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a storage library through a network. A request originating from the network is received, wherein the request is in a protocol and includes a command for the storage library. A type for the request is identified. The request in the protocol is translated into a format used by the storage library to form a type specific request for the storage library in response to the type corresponding to a type for the storage library. The type specific request is sent to the storage library.

Abstract: A system for on-demand printing of hazardous material placards, the system comprising: (a) an input device through which a user can input parameters relating to a hazardous material to be transported or stored; (b) a processor configured to determine a hazardous material placard for the hazardous material according to a computerized analysis of the input parameters; and (c) an output device configured to print the determined placard. Preferably, the processor determines the appropriate placard by executing a placard selection program that comprises a plurality of placard selection rules, wherein the placard selection rules define the conditions under which a placard is to be used. Further, the placard selection rules preferably comply with government regulations relating to the shipment and/or storage of hazardous materials. Also, the system may display a menu of placards selectable by the user for printing.

Abstract: A material handling apparatus comprising a material delivery configuration configured with a first end and a second end, a transfer configuration connected to the first end of the garment delivery rail, a movable material handling arrangement configured to transfer at least one set of material on hangers supported by the arrangement, a computer, a user interface configured to accept, process and provide data to a user, the user interface connected to the computer to transfer and receive data, a clearing arrangement configured to remove material from the material delivery configuration; and an enclosure configured to separate a user from the movable material handling arrangement.

Abstract: Methods and systems for collecting, tagging, searching for, retrieving, inventorying, and transferring evidence by law enforcement officials are described, in which RFID tags associated with pieces of evidence can be interrogated to assist in locating information relating to that evidence.

Abstract: A container storage and delivery system includes an individual container storage and delivery system. A palletizer is provided for forming a group of containers from the individual container storage and delivery system into a layer or a partial layer, and placing this layer or partial layer onto a pallet. A high speed pick station provides access for manual retrieval of high throughput case types from each storage location. An individual container placement station is also provided for placing individual containers onto a pallet. A conveyor system conveys containers and pallets from the individual container storage and delivery system, the palletizer, the high speed pick station, and the individual container placement station.

Abstract: The invention makes it possible to efficiently and accurately supply parts to a work in an assembling production line structured as a mixed assembly line, and to improve a flexibility of changing the line.

Abstract: Library system health is monitored and displayed based on the location of equipment within the library relative to track layout. Robotic devices travel on rails within the data storage library accessing data storage devices such as cartridges, cassettes, media packages, media access equipment, identification devices, access ports and the like. The rails are divided into a plurality of rail segments. A database holds information about each rail segment. The database is updated based on use of each rail segment by the robotic devices. Data is generated and displayed to describe the use of each rail segment.

Abstract: A locker system of the present invention is capable of securing an available locker surely upon following necessary procedures for concluding a contract of utilization reservations of a home delivery locker as an address-for-delivery of a parcel or merchandize or so forth.

Abstract: A system for accessing small items that are stored in a secure manner for controlled access thereto by access mode or access code, which system is based upon a series of modules having a plurality of storage cartridges therein, which modules are disposed in a box and a plurality of boxes are housed in a cabinet. The cabinet and specific cartridge are accessed by an access mode such as a coin, bill, credit card, access code as by keypad or computer generated among others. A signal is sent to a solenoid which impacts a latch which moves downwardly and releases from engagement with the cartridge. A latch spring returns the latch to its original position. An ejection spring kicks the cartridge forward for the user to gain access to the contents thereof. Reinsertion of the cartridge reverses the procedure to re-engage the latch with the cartridge's down hanging metal strip.

Abstract: A library checking system for use with books provided with RFID tags comprises a terminal incorporating a housing within which a book is contained during checking, and an identification antenna for detecting the RFID tag of the book while within the housing and for supplying a signal identifying the book to a central processor. A book slot through which the book is insertable for checking opens into the housing, and an output from the housing is provided through which the book is discharged to a pick-up area in the event of the book being passed by the central processor as available for borrowing. A pivotable bookdrop flap is provided within the housing on which the book is supported during detection by the identification antenna, the flap being pivotable to cause the book to drop into a bookdrop bin in the event of the book not being passed by the central processor as available for borrowing.

Abstract: A computerized method of assisting the routing of a part, comprising the steps of: providing at least one computer; receiving part identifier information; and generating a tag for affixing to the part. The tag has information thereon responsive to the identifier information. A computerized method of assisting the handling of a part, comprising the steps of: providing at least one computer; receiving part identifier information; processing the part identifier information; and generating output from the computer responsive to the part identifier information.

Abstract: A method for sorting integrated circuit (IC) devices of the type having a fuse identification (ID) into those devices requiring enhanced reliability testing and those requiring standard testing includes storing fabrication deviation data, probe data, and test data in association with the fuse ID of each of the devices indicating each of the devices requires either enhanced reliability testing or standard testing. The fuse ID of each of the devices is then automatically read before, during, or after standard testing of the devices. The testing process requirement data stored in association with the fuse ID of each of the devices is then accessed, and the devices are sorted in accordance with the accessed data into those devices requiring enhanced reliability testing and those requiring standard testing.

Abstract: A logistics node receives a purchase order from a customer. The logistics node selects an appropriate carrier to transport products specified in the purchase order and conveys shipping instructions to the selected carrier. The logistics node also coordinates the shipment by interacting with a source node (associated with a supplier of the products) and a destination node (associated with the recipient of the products). According to one exemplary feature, the logistics node provides an interface that permits users involved in the distribution chain to track the status of the shipments without having to enter tracking codes that are unique to individual carriers. According to another exemplary feature, the interface allows a user to access multiple “levels” of information regarding a shipment, including information pertaining to an individual product within a shipment containing multiple products.

Abstract: A production operation is controlled by electronically scanning and reading printed information at intervals along a component tape. The printed information is continuously scanned and read from the carrier tape portion or the cover tape portion of the component tape as components are removed from the component tape during a production operation. In a production facility, the data from many component tapes is transmitted simultaneously to a production control system where all data is processed. The processed data is used to automatically control a production operation by using the printed information to control resources of the production operation, resources including component inventory, equipment, and facilities.

Abstract: A system by which a portable computer on a cart translates warehouse locations to light addresses of locations on storage bays in a storage facility and communicates instructions by means of a bi-directional, dual transmitter/receiver element on the cart to a pick-controller unit positioned on each bay. The pick-controller unit on the bay is connected with intelligent light assemblies at each location on the bay that, in response to instructions from the portable computer, illuminate indicating the need for, and quantity of a SKU to be retrieved from the illuminated location. In addition, the portable computer communicates instructions using the bi-directional, dual transmitter/receiver element to the put-controller unit positioned on the cart that in turn communicates these instructions to intelligent light assemblies adjacent to specific receptacles located on the cart.

Abstract: A sortation system includes a track arrangement and a series of carriers which are movable on the track arrangement, such as by a roller chain or the like. A series of sort stations are provided at various locations along the track arrangement, and items are placed into the carriers at an induction station. Each carrier is programmed at the induction station with a destination sort station, according to the identity of the item carried by the carrier. Each sort station has a unique identification arrangement, such as a sort station module which emits a sort station identification signal which is received by the carriers as the carriers are moved toward the sort stations. If the sort station identification signal matches the destination identification programmed into the carrier, a trip mechanism associated with the sort station is activated so as to discharge the item from the carrier. The carrier is then reset and transported to the induction station for receiving another item to be sorted.