Workstations and pick stations for automated storage and
retrieval systems that employ robots and conveying machines
to enable movement of storage bins and boxes from one
location to another within the system and through the
workstations and pick stations; tilted workstations for
automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems; tilted
pick stations for automated warehouse storage and retrieval
systems; tilted workstations and titled pick stations having
an opening for accessing a storage bin or box therein
whereby a storage bin or box therein is always present in
the opening and blocks access to internal components of the
tilted workstation and pick station by a user.
Workstations and pick stations for automated storage and retrieval systems that employ robots and conveying machines to enable movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and through the workstations and pick stations; tilted workstations for automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems; tilted pick stations for automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems; tilted workstations and titled pick stations having an opening for accessing a storage bin or box therein whereby a storage bin or box therein is always present in the opening and blocks access to internal components of the tilted workstation and pick station by a user
Workstations and pick stations for automated storage and retrieval systems that employ robots and conveying machines to enable movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and through the workstations and pick stations; tilted workstations for automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems; tilted pick stations for automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems; tilted workstations and titled pick stations having an opening for accessing a storage bin or box therein whereby a storage bin or box therein is always present in the opening and blocks access to internal components of the tilted workstation and pick station by a user.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Computer software for use with industrial robots and automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems; computer software for use in optimizing efficiency of movement of industrial robots within automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems; computer software for use in improving efficiency of order processing and delivery by automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems (1) Management of movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within a bin-based network to provide order fulfillment services; management of order processing and packaging within an automated warehouse storage and retrieval system to optimize efficiency of movement of industrial robots within the automated warehouse storage and retrieval system; management of order processing and packaging within an automated warehouse storage and retrieval system to improve fulfilment and delivery of orders
(1) Workstations and pick stations for automated storage and retrieval systems that employ robots and conveying machines to enable movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and through the workstations and pick stations; tilted workstations for automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems; tilted pick stations for automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems; tilted workstations and titled pick stations having an opening for accessing a storage bin or box therein whereby a storage bin or box therein is always present in the opening and blocks access to internal components of the tilted workstation and pick station by a user.
7.
SPACE-EFFICIENT ORDER FULFILLMENT SYSTEM FOR WORKFLOW BETWEEN SERVICE AREAS
An order fulfillment system including an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) structure, robotic vehicles, storage bins, and different service areas in a continuous arrangement positioned adjacent to an outer perimeter of the ASRS structure at one or more service levels of the ASRS structure, is provided. The robotic vehicles are navigable within the ASRS structure at the service level(s) positioned above and/or below storage levels of the ASRS structure. The robotic vehicles carry the storage bins within the ASRS structure during transfer of the storage bins to and from storage locations of the ASRS structure. Each service area includes one or more workstations of a type configured for one or more tasks different from one or more workstations at another service area. Each service area receives a drop-off of the storage bins at and/or a travel of the storage bins through each service area by the robotic vehicles.
AUTOMATED STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM REDUCING BIN MOVES BY SELECTING MULTI-STOCK BINS CONTAINING HIGHEST NUMBER OF SKUS ON WORKSTATION STOCK WAITLIST
An automated storage and retrieval system stores multi-stock bins each holding different stock-keeping units (SKUs). Records dynamically track which SKUs are in each bin. A controller tracks a stock waitlist indicating quantities of SKUs still required to be delivered to a workstation in order to fulfil current orders assigned to the workstation. When a robot is available, the controller selects a multi-stock bin that has a highest number of unique ones of the required SKUs indicated on the stock waitlist and commands the robot to fetch and deliver the selected bin to the workstation. For new orders, the controller may determine if direct assignment can be done to a workstation without additional bins being scheduled. For other pending orders, the controller may assume each pending order is assigned to the workstation and then pick the order that would require a lowest number of bins to be delivered to the workstation.
A multi-zone automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) and a method for controlling operation of robotic storage/retrieval vehicles (RSRVs) therein are provided. The multi-zone ASRS includes first and second storage zones isolated by at least one barrier and including first and second groups of storage locations respectively for accommodating storage units therein. The multi-zone ASRS includes one or more portals opening through the barrier(s) between the storage zones, and at least one track layout. The track layout(s) includes first and second track areas occupying the first and second storage zones respectively, and one or more connective track segments interconnecting the first and second track areas through the portal(s). The RSRVs deposit and retrieve the storage units to and from the storage locations and travel on the first and second track areas via the connective track segment(s) to respectively access the first and second groups of storage locations therefrom.
A manufacturing system including an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) structure with a three-dimensional array of storage locations distributed throughout a two-dimensional footprint of the ASRS structure at multiple storage levels; workpieces stored within the storage locations of the ASRS structure; robotic storage retrieval vehicles (RSRVs) navigable within the ASRS structure in three dimensions to access the storage locations, and multiple manufacturing cells positioned outside the ASRS structure, is provided. The manufacturing system includes a track structure attached to the ASRS structure and defining one or more travel paths traversable by the RSRVs from the ASRS structure. The same fleet of RSRVs that is navigable within the ASRS structure is operable to deliver the workpieces to the manufacturing cells. One or more of the manufacturing cells are positioned along the track structure, thereby receiving convenient access to the workpieces along with associated tool pieces and workpiece supports for manufacturing goods.
A multi-entity inventory management system including reassignable storage bins and a method for managing product inventory of different entities, for example, vendors, at one or more facilities including one or more storage structures served by robotic handlers, are provided. Each storage bin stores one or more caches of the products. A computerized inventory management system (CIMS) stores digital records including entity identifiers, product catalogues containing product identifiers of the products offered by each entity to customers, and unique bin identifiers assigned to the storage bins. The CIMS executes a digital transfer of ownership of inventory from a stocked entity to a needful entity, for example, based on an inventory shortfall, a complete absence of inventory of the needful entity, orders for the product inventory being received, etc. Along with an inventory swap through the storage bins, the CIMS executes commerce between the entities and implements inventory reservation.
G05B 19/4155 - Numerical control [NC], i.e. automatically operating machines, in particular machine tools, e.g. in a manufacturing environment, so as to execute positioning, movement or co-ordinated operations by means of programme data in numerical form characterised by programme execution, i.e. part programme or machine function execution, e.g. selection of a programme
A storage and retrieval system employing a gridded three-dimensional storage structure features workstations served by the same robotic vehicle fleet that serves the storage structure, travel-through workstations using the same robotic vehicles to carry storage units through the workstation without hand-off to any other conveyor or handler, internal sortation using orchestrated navigation of the robotic vehicles to workstation intake points, sensors on the robotic vehicles to confirm proper loading and alignment of storage units thereon, lifting mechanisms for raising the robotic vehicles into shafts of the gridded three-dimensional storage structure from a lower track thereof, use of markers and scanners to align the robotic vehicles with the grid shafts, and workstation light curtains for hand safety, pick-counting and container content protrusion detection.
B65G 1/06 - Storage devices mechanical with means for presenting articles for removal at predetermined position or level
13.
AUTOMATED STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM REDUCING BIN MOVES BY SELECTING MULTI-STOCK BINS CONTAINING HIGHEST NUMBER OF SKUS ON WORKSTATION STOCK WAITLIST
An automated storage and retrieval system stores multi-stock bins each holding different stock-keeping units (SKUs). Records dynamically track which SKUs are in each bin. A controller tracks a stock waitlist indicating quantities of SKUs still required to be delivered to a workstation in order to fulfil current orders assigned to the workstation. When a robot is available, the controller selects a multi-stock bin that has a highest number of unique ones of the required SKUs indicated on the stock waitlist and commands the robot to fetch and deliver the selected bin to the workstation. For new orders, the controller may determine if direct assignment can be done to a workstation without additional bins being scheduled. For other pending orders, the controller may assume each pending order is assigned to the workstation and then pick the order that would require a lowest number of bins to be delivered to the workstation.
AUTOMATED STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEM REDUCING BIN MOVES BY SELECTING MULTI-STOCK BINS CONTAINING HIGHEST NUMBER OF SKUS ON WORKSTATION STOCK WAITLIST
An automated storage and retrieval system stores multi-stock bins each holding different stock-keeping units (SKUs). Records dynamically track which SKUs are in each bin. A controller tracks a stock waitlist indicating quantities of SKUs still required to be delivered to a workstation in order to fulfil current orders assigned to the workstation. When a robot is available, the controller selects a multi-stock bin that has a highest number of unique ones of the required SKUs indicated on the stock waitlist and commands the robot to fetch and deliver the selected bin to the workstation. For new orders, the controller may determine if direct assignment can be done to a workstation without additional bins being scheduled. For other pending orders, the controller may assume each pending order is assigned to the workstation and then pick the order that would require a lowest number of bins to be delivered to the workstation.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
Goods & Services
(1) Industrial robots for automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems, conveying machines
(2) Computer software for use with industrial robots and automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems in digitally connected, AI directed, multi-tenant and multi-temperature-zone warehouse networks (1) Management of movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within a bin-based network to provide order fulfilment services using a hierarchy of digitally connected, AI directed multi tenant computing resources empowered by warehouse storage and retrieval systems comprising industrial robots
16.
Methods for robotic handling of storage units in a three-dimensional storage system
In combination, a storage unit storable within a three-dimensional storage system and a storage/retrieval vehicle navigable through the three-dimensional storage system to storage locations therein at which the storage unit is selectively storable and retrievable. The storage/retrieval vehicle comprises a frame conveyable through the three-dimensional storage system, a platform atop the frame for receipt of the storage unit on the platform, and a loading/unloading mechanism operable to load and unload the storage unit to and from the platform at four different sides thereof. The storage unit and the storage/retrieval vehicle are configured to enable unloading of the storage unit from the platform in any one of four different directions at four different respective sides of the vehicle regardless of an original orientation in which the storage unit was previously loaded onto the platform and without reorienting the storage unit from the original orientation.
B66F 9/06 - Devices for lifting or lowering bulky or heavy goods for loading or unloading purposes movable, with their loads, on wheels or the like, e.g. fork-lift trucks
B66F 9/12 - PlatformsForksOther load-supporting or load-gripping members
A multi-zone automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) and a method for controlling operation of robotic storage/retrieval vehicles (RSRVs) therein are provided. The multi-zone ASRS includes first and second storage zones isolated by at least one barrier and including first and second groups of storage locations respectively for accommodating storage units therein. The multi-zone ASRS includes one or more portals opening through the barrier(s) between the storage zones, and at least one track layout. The track layout(s) includes first and second track areas occupying the first and second storage zones respectively, and one or more connective track segments interconnecting the first and second track areas through the portal(s). The RSRVs deposit and retrieve the storage units to and from the storage locations and travel on the first and second track areas via the connective track segment(s) to respectively access the first and second groups of storage locations therefrom.
A multi-zone automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) and a method for controlling operation of robotic storage/retrieval vehicles (RSRVs) therein are provided. The multi-zone ASRS includes first and second storage zones isolated by at least one barrier and including first and second groups of storage locations respectively for accommodating storage units therein. The multi-zone ASRS includes one or more portals opening through the barrier(s) between the storage zones, and at least one track layout. The track layout(s) includes first and second track areas occupying the first and second storage zones respectively, and one or more connective track segments interconnecting the first and second track areas through the portal(s). The RSRVs deposit and retrieve the storage units to and from the storage locations and travel on the first and second track areas via the connective track segment(s) to respectively access the first and second groups of storage locations therefrom.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Industrial robots Downloadable and recorded computer software for operating industrial robots and automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems Warehousing services featuring automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems comprising robots, apparatus and installations enabling movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and warehouse
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
(1) Industrial robots for automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems, conveying machines
(2) Computer software for use with industrial robots and automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems (1) Provision of automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems comprised of robots, apparatus and installations enabling movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and warehouse.
21.
MANUFACTURING SYSTEM WITH AN INTERCONNECTED STORAGE STRUCTURE AND MANUFACTURING CELLS SHARING A COMMON ROBOTIC FLEET
A manufacturing system including an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) structure with a three-dimensional array of storage locations distributed throughout a two- dimensional footprint of the ASRS structure at multiple storage levels; workpieces stored within the storage locations of the ASRS structure; robotic storage/retrieval vehicles (RSRVs) navigable within the ASRS structure in three dimensions to access the storage locations, and multiple manufacturing cells positioned outside the ASRS structure, is provided. The manufacturing system includes a track structure attached to the ASRS structure and defining one or more travel paths traversable by the RSRVs from the ASRS structure. The same fleet of RSRVs that is navigable within the ASRS structure is operable to deliver the workpieces to the manufacturing cells. One or more of the manufacturing cells are positioned along the track structure, thereby receiving convenient access to the workpieces along with associated toolpieces and workpiece supports for manufacturing goods.
A manufacturing system including an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) structure with a three-dimensional array of storage locations distributed throughout a two- dimensional footprint of the ASRS structure at multiple storage levels; workpieces stored within the storage locations of the ASRS structure; robotic storage/retrieval vehicles (RSRVs) navigable within the ASRS structure in three dimensions to access the storage locations, and multiple manufacturing cells positioned outside the ASRS structure, is provided. The manufacturing system includes a track structure attached to the ASRS structure and defining one or more travel paths traversable by the RSRVs from the ASRS structure. The same fleet of RSRVs that is navigable within the ASRS structure is operable to deliver the workpieces to the manufacturing cells. One or more of the manufacturing cells are positioned along the track structure, thereby receiving convenient access to the workpieces along with associated toolpieces and workpiece supports for manufacturing goods.
An order fulfillment system including an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) structure, robotic vehicles, storage bins, and different service areas in a continuous arrangement positioned adjacent to an outer perimeter of the ASRS structure at one or more service levels of the ASRS structure, is provided. The robotic vehicles are navigable within the ASRS structure at the service level(s) positioned above and/or below storage levels of the ASRS structure. The robotic vehicles carry the storage bins within the ASRS structure during transfer of the storage bins to and from storage locations of the ASRS structure. Each service area includes one or more workstations of a type configured for one or more tasks different from one or more workstations at another service area. Each service area receives a drop-off of the storage bins at and/or a travel of the storage bins through each service area by the robotic vehicles.
B60P 1/38 - Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading using endless chains or belts thereon forming the main load supporting or containing element or part thereof
24.
SPACE-EFFICIENT ORDER FULFILLMENT SYSTEM FOR WORKFLOW BETWEEN SERVICE AREAS
An order fulfillment system including an automated storage and retrieval system (ASRS) structure, robotic vehicles, storage bins, and different service areas in a continuous arrangement positioned adjacent to an outer perimeter of the ASRS structure at one or more service levels of the ASRS structure, is provided. The robotic vehicles are navigable within the ASRS structure at the service level(s) positioned above and/or below storage levels of the ASRS structure. The robotic vehicles carry the storage bins within the ASRS structure during transfer of the storage bins to and from storage locations of the ASRS structure. Each service area includes one or more workstations of a type configured for one or more tasks different from one or more workstations at another service area. Each service area receives a drop-off of the storage bins at and/or a travel of the storage bins through each service area by the robotic vehicles.
B60P 1/38 - Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading using endless chains or belts thereon forming the main load supporting or containing element or part thereof
25.
MULTI-ENTITY INVENTORY MANAGEMENT USING STORAGE BIN AND INVENTORY REASSIGNMENT
A multi-entity inventory management system including reassignable storage bins and a method for managing product inventory of different entities, for example, vendors, at one or more facilities including one or more storage structures served by robotic handlers, are provided. Each storage bin stores one or more eaches of the products. A computerized inventory management system (CIMS) stores digital records including entity identifiers, product catalogues containing product identifiers of the products offered by each entity to customers, and unique bin identifiers assigned to the storage bins. The CIMS executes a digital transfer of ownership of inventory from a stocked entity to a needful entity, for example, based on an inventory shortfall, a complete absence of inventory of the needful entity, orders for the product inventory being received, etc. Along with an inventory swap through the storage bins, the CIMS executes commerce between the entities and implements inventory reservation.
A multi-entity inventory management system including reassignable storage bins and a method for managing product inventory of different entities, for example, vendors, at one or more facilities including one or more storage structures served by robotic handlers, are provided. Each storage bin stores one or more eaches of the products. A computerized inventory management system (CIMS) stores digital records including entity identifiers, product catalogues containing product identifiers of the products offered by each entity to customers, and unique bin identifiers assigned to the storage bins. The CIMS executes a digital transfer of ownership of inventory from a stocked entity to a needful entity, for example, based on an inventory shortfall, a complete absence of inventory of the needful entity, orders for the product inventory being received, etc. Along with an inventory swap through the storage bins, the CIMS executes commerce between the entities and implements inventory reservation.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Industrial robots; Conveying machines. Computer software; computer software for use with industrial robots and automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems. Warehouse storage services.
28.
MULTI-NODAL SUPPLY CHAIN SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SUPPLY CHAIN WORKFLOW EXECUTION USING TRANSPORTABLE AND CONTINUOUSLY TRACKABLE STORAGE BINS
A multi-nodal supply chain system including multiple interconnected entities and a method for executing a supply chain workflow using transportable and continuously trackable, standardized storage bins is provided. The entities include a network of node facilities distributed throughout a geographical region, inter-nodal transport vehicles (INTVs), storage bins storable in indexed storage locations within the node facilities and the INTVs, and a computerized system. The computerized system stores bin identifiers of the storage bins and location identifiers of the indexed storage locations and dynamic storage locations of the storage bins. The computerized system also updates the location identifiers as the storage bins are transferred between the node facilities and the INTVs. The node facilities, the INTVs, and the storage bins, in communication with the computerized system, provide a complete traceability of one or more eaches of inventory items from their input into the supply chain system to fulfillment of orders.
A multi-nodal supply chain system including multiple interconnected entities and a method for executing a supply chain workflow using transportable and continuously trackable, standardized storage bins is provided. The entities include a network of node facilities distributed throughout a geographical region, inter-nodal transport vehicles (INTVs), storage bins storable in indexed storage locations within the node facilities and the INTVs, and a computerized system. The computerized system stores bin identifiers of the storage bins and location identifiers of the indexed storage locations and dynamic storage locations of the storage bins. The computerized system also updates the location identifiers as the storage bins are transferred between the node facilities and the INTVs. The node facilities, the INTVs, and the storage bins, in communication with the computerized system, provide a complete traceability of one or more eaches of inventory items from their input into the supply chain system to fulfillment of orders.
A multi-nodal supply chain system including multiple interconnected entities and a method for executing a supply chain workflow using transportable and continuously trackable, standardized storage bins is provided. The entities include a network of node facilities distributed throughout a geographical region, inter-nodal transport vehicles (INTVs), storage bins storable in indexed storage locations within the node facilities and the INTVs, and a computerized system. The computerized system stores bin identifiers of the storage bins and location identifiers of the indexed storage locations and dynamic storage locations of the storage bins. The computerized system also updates the location identifiers as the storage bins are transferred between the node facilities and the INTVs. The node facilities, the INTVs, and the storage bins, in communication with the computerized system, provide a complete traceability of one or more eaches of inventory items from their input into the supply chain system to fulfillment of orders.
A multi-nodal supply chain system including multiple interconnected entities and a method for executing a supply chain workflow using transportable and continuously trackable, standardized storage bins is provided. The entities include a network of node facilities distributed throughout a geographical region, inter-nodal transport vehicles (INTVs), storage bins storable in indexed storage locations within the node facilities and the INTVs, and a computerized system. The computerized system stores bin identifiers of the storage bins and location identifiers of the indexed storage locations and dynamic storage locations of the storage bins. The computerized system also updates the location identifiers as the storage bins are transferred between the node facilities and the INTVs. The node facilities, the INTVs, and the storage bins, in communication with the computerized system, provide a complete traceability of one or more eaches of inventory items from their input into the supply chain system to fulfillment of orders.
In combination, a storage unit storable within a three-dimensional storage system and a storage/retrieval vehicle navigable through the three-dimensional storage system to storage locations therein at which the storage unit is selectively storable and retrievable. The storage/retrieval vehicle comprises a frame conveyable through the three-dimensional storage system, a platform atop the frame for receipt of the storage unit on the platform, and a loading/unloading mechanism operable to load and unload the storage unit to and from the platform at four different sides thereof. The storage unit and the storage/retrieval vehicle are configured to enable unloading of the storage unit from the platform in any one of four different directions at four different respective sides of the vehicle regardless of an original orientation in which the storage unit was previously loaded onto the platform and without reorienting the storage unit from the original orientation.
B66F 9/06 - Devices for lifting or lowering bulky or heavy goods for loading or unloading purposes movable, with their loads, on wheels or the like, e.g. fork-lift trucks
B66F 9/12 - PlatformsForksOther load-supporting or load-gripping members
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Industrial robots Downloadable and recorded computer software for operating industrial robots and automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems Warehousing services featuring automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems comprising robots, apparatus and installations enabling movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and warehouse
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Industrial robots Downloadable and recorded computer software for operating industrial robots and automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems Warehousing services featuring automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems comprising robots, apparatus and installations enabling movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and warehouse
Bins or other storage units contained within a three-dimensional grid structure are arranged in cells, each of which has multiple storage units surrounding a central void or space on different sides thereof. This void space is slightly larger than each storage unit, enabling the unit to be pulled into the void by mechanical means, and allowing access to the bins on all sides of the void. The storage units are stacked within the three-dimensional grid structure, which can be built or expanded to a predetermined footprint. The aligned voids of stacked cells create vertical shafts spanning between upper and lower tracks of the grid structure on which robotic retrieval vehicles can horizontally travel to and from any given shaft. The robotic retrieval vehicles can directly access any storage unit via the vertical shafts.
Bins or other storage units contained within a three-dimensional grid structure are arranged in cells, each of which has multiple storage units surrounding a central void or space on different sides thereof. This void space is slightly larger than each storage unit, enabling the unit to be pulled into the void by mechanical means, and allowing access to the bins on all sides of the void. The storage units are stacked within the three-dimensional grid structure, which can be built or expanded to a predetermined footprint. The aligned voids of stacked cells create vertical shafts spanning between upper and lower tracks of the grid structure on which robotic retrieval vehicles can horizontally travel to and from any given shaft. The robotic retrieval vehicles can directly access any storage unit via the vertical shafts.
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
(1) Provision of automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems comprised of robots, conveying machines, apparatus and installations enabling movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and warehouse.
39.
IMPROVED STORAGE UNITS AND ROBOTIC STORAGE/RETRIEVAL VEHICLES FOR A THREE-DIMENSIONAL STORAGE SYSTEM
In combination, a storage unit storable within a three-dimensional storage system and a storage/retrieval vehicle navigable through the three-dimensional storage system to storage locations therein at which the storage unit is selectively storable and retrievable. The storage/retrieval vehicle comprises a frame conveyable through the three-dimensional storage system, a platform atop the frame for receipt of the storage unit on the platform, and a loading/unloading mechanism operable to load and unload the storage unit to and from the platform at four different sides thereof. The storage unit and the storage/retrieval vehicle are configured to enable unloading of the storage unit from the platform in any one of four different directions at four different respective sides of the vehicle regardless of an original orientation in which the storage unit was previously loaded onto the platform and without reorienting the storage unit from the original orientation.
An improved storage and retrieval system employing a gridded three- dimensional storage structure features workstations served by the same robotic vehicle fleet that serves the storage stmcture, travel-through workstations using the same robotic vehicles to carry storage units through the workstation without hand-off to any other conveyor or handler, internal sortation using orchestrated navigation of the robotic vehicles to workstation intake points, sensors on the robotic vehicles to confirm proper loading and alignment of storage units thereon, lifting mechanisms for raising the robotic vehicles into shafts of the grid from a lower track thereof, use of markers and scanners to align the robotic vehicles with the grid shafts, and workstation light curtains for hand safety, pick-counting and container content protrusion detection.
An improved storage and retrieval system employing a gridded three- dimensional storage structure features workstations served by the same robotic vehicle fleet that serves the storage structure, travel-through workstations using the same robotic vehicles to carry storage units through the workstation without hand-off to any other conveyor or handler, internal sortation using orchestrated navigation of the robotic vehicles to workstation intake points, sensors on the robotic vehicles to confirm proper loading and alignment of storage units thereon, lifting mechanisms for raising the robotic vehicles into shafts of the grid from a lower track thereof, use of markers and scanners to align the robotic vehicles with the grid shafts, and workstation light curtains for hand safety, pick-counting and container content protrusion detection.
In combination, a storage unit storable within a three-dimensional storage system and a storage/retrieval vehicle navigable through the three-dimensional storage system to storage locations therein at which the storage unit is selectively storable and retrievable. The storage/retrieval vehicle comprises a frame conveyable through the three-dimensional storage system, a platform atop the frame for receipt of the storage unit on the platform, and a loading/unloading mechanism operable to load and unload the storage unit to and from the platform at four different sides thereof. The storage unit and the storage/retrieval vehicle are configured to enable unloading of the storage unit from the platform in any one of four different directions at four different respective sides of the vehicle regardless of an original orientation in which the storage unit was previously loaded onto the platform and without reorienting the storage unit from the original orientation.
A storage systeni features a fleet of storage/retrieval vehicles and a gridded three-dimensional structure. The structure features a gridded two-dimensional track layout on which the one or more storage/retrieval vehicles are conveyable in two directions, and a plurality of storage columns residing above or below the gridded track layout in spaced distribution throughout the two-dimensional area of the track layout. Upright shafts reside above or below the gridded track layout and provide vehicle access to the storage columns. At least one working station resides outside the two- dimensional area of the track layout, and via one or more extension tracks, is served by the same vehicles that navigate the gridded structure.
A storage and retrieval system employing a gridded three-dimensional storage structure features workstations served by the same robotic vehicle fleet that serves the storage structure, travel-through workstations using the same robotic vehicles to carry storage units through the workstation without hand-off to any other conveyor or handler, internal sortation using orchestrated navigation of the robotic vehicles to workstation intake points, sensors on the robotic vehicles to confirm proper loading and alignment of storage units thereon, lifting mechanisms for raising the robotic vehicles into shafts of the gridded three- dimensional storage structurefrom a lower track thereof, use of markers and scanners to align the robotic vehicles with the grid shafts, and workstation light curtains for hand safety, pick- counting and container content protrusion detection.
A storage system features a fleet of storage/retrieval vehicles and a gridded three-dimensional structure. The structure features a gridded two-dimensional track layout on which the one or more storage/retrieval vehicles are conveyable in two directions, and a plurality of storage columns residing above or below the gridded track layout in spaced distribution throughout the two-dimensional area of the track layout. Upright shafts reside above or below the gridded track layout and provide vehicle access to the storage columns. At least one working station resides outside the two-dimensional area of the track layout, and via one or more extension tracks, is served by the same vehicles that navigate the gridded structure.
Orchestrated delivery of retrieved storage units from a three-dimensional gridded storage structure to an entrance or intake point of a working station in a sequenced manner is performed entirely within the footprint of the gridded three-dimensional storage structure by the same fleet of robotic storage/retrieval vehicles operable to retrieve the storage units from storage locations within that gridded structure, thereby enabling omission of large sortation conveyors or other external sortation equipment.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Industrial robots; automatic storage and retrieval system; mechanical equipment used for the movement, storage, control and protection of materials, goods and products. Computer software for use with industrial robots and automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems. Provision of automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems comprised of robots, conveying machines, apparatus and installations enabling movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and warehouse.
Industrial robots; automatic storage and retrieval system; mechanical equipment used for the movement, storage, control and protection of materials, goods and products.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Industrial robots; automatic storage and retrieval system; mechanical equipment used for the movement, storage, control and protection of materials, goods and products. Computer software for use with industrial robots and automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems. Provision of automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems comprised of robots, conveying machines, apparatus and installations enabling movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and warehouse.
Bins or other storage units contained within a three-dimensional grid structure are arranged in cells, each of which has multiple storage units surrounding a central void or space on different sides thereof. This void space is slightly larger than each storage unit, enabling the unit to be pulled into the void by mechanical means, and allowing access to the bins on all sides of the void. The storage units are stacked within the three-dimensional grid structure, which can be built or expanded to a predetermined footprint. The aligned voids of stacked cells create vertical shafts spanning between upper and lower tracks of the grid structure on which robotic retrieval vehicles can horizontally travel to and from any given shaft. The robotic retrieval vehicles can directly access any storage unit via the vertical shafts.
Bins or other storage units contained within a three-dimensional grid structure are arranged in cells, each of which has multiple storage units surrounding a central void or space on different sides thereof. This void space is slightly larger than each storage unit, enabling the unit to be pulled into the void by mechanical means, and allowing access to the bins on all sides of the void. The storage units are stacked within the three-dimensional grid structure, which can be built or expanded to a predetermined footprint. The aligned voids of stacked cells create vertical shafts spanning between upper and lower tracks of the grid structure on which robotic retrieval vehicles can horizontally travel to and from any given shaft. The robotic retrieval vehicles can directly access any storage unit via the vertical shafts.
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
(1) Provision of automated warehouse storage and retrieval systems comprised of robots, conveying machines, apparatus and installations enabling movement of storage bins and boxes from one location to another within the system and warehouse.
3 0 3ins or other storage units contained within a three-dimensional grid structure are arranged in cells, each of which has multiple storage units surrounding a central void or space on different sides thereof. This void space is slightly larger than each storage unit, enabling the unit to be pulled into the void mechanically. The storage units are stacked within the three- dimensional grid structure, which can be built or expanded to a predetermined footprint. The aligned voids of stacked cells create vertical shafts spanning between upper and lower tracks of the grid structure on which robotic retrieval vehicles can horizontally travel to and from any given shaft. The stacks include full- sided stacks whose cells have four storage locations on four different sides of the shaft, and the vehicles are operable in four different working positions within the shaft to access any one of the four storage locations of any given cell.
Bins or other storage units contained within a three-dimensional grid structure are arranged in cells, each of which has multiple storage units surrounding a central void on different sides thereof. This void is slightly larger than each storage unit, enabling the unit to be pulled into the void mechanically. The storage units are stacked within the three-dimensional grid structure, and the aligned voids of the stacked cells create vertical shafts spanning through the grid. A track system for guided movement of the robotic vehicles includes first and second track subsystems for respective horizontal and vertical travel of the vehicles. The vehicles have wheels assemblies that are configurable in retracted and extended configurations, of which the extended configuration increases a footprint of the vehicle to a size driveable horizontally on the first track subsystem, relative to a smaller footprint in the retracted configuration for vertical travel via the second track subsystem.
Bins or other storage units contained within a three-dimensional grid structure are arranged in cells, each of which has multiple storage units surrounding a central void or space on different sides thereof. This void space is slightly larger than each storage unit, enabling the unit to be pulled into the void by mechanical means, and allowing access to the bins on all sides of the void. The storage units are stacked within the three-dimensional grid structure, which can be built or expanded to a predetermined footprint. The aligned voids of stacked cells create vertical shafts spanning between upper and lower tracks of the grid structure on which robotic retrieval vehicles can horizontally travel to and from any given shaft. The robotic retrieval vehicles can directly access any storage unit via the vertical shafts.
Bins or other storage units contained within a three-dimensional grid structure are arranged in cells, each of which has multiple storage units surrounding a central void or space on different sides thereof. This void space is slightly larger than each storage unit, enabling the unit to be pulled into the void mechanically. The storage units are stacked within the three- dimensional grid structure, which can be built or expanded to a predetermined footprint. The aligned voids of stacked cells create vertical shafts through which robotic vehicles can travel among the stacked cells to access the storage locations thereof. A track system for guided movement of the robotic vehicles includes shaft-corresponding track sections that extend below the stacked storage cells, such that the guided movement includes guided movement of the robotic vehicles to a space below the stacked storage cells.
Bins or other storage units contained within a three-dimensional grid structure are arranged in cells, each of which has multiple storage units surrounding a central void or space on different sides thereof. This void space is slightly larger than each storage unit, enabling the unit to be pulled into the void by mechanical means, and allowing access to the bins on all sides of the void. The storage units are stacked within the three-dimensional grid structure, which can be built or expanded to a predetermined footprint. The aligned voids of stacked cells create vertical shafts spanning between upper and lower tracks of the grid structure on which robotic retrieval vehicles can horizontally travel to and from any given shaft. The robotic retrieval vehicles can directly access any storage unit via the vertical shafts.
