Si Handling Systems, Inc.

James L Thatcher

Per E Lindquist

Charles W Schultz

Allen Easterling

A method of automatically picking items to fill a purchase order. A purchase order is received and information about the identity and quantity of items ordered in the purchase order is extracted from it. A pick list is created from the extracted information a pick list, and the pick list is associated with a receptacle for receiving picked items. A determination is made whether ordered items are of a first type or a second type. If no item of the second type is ordered, the receptacle is directed to a first location where items of the first type are stored and ordered items stored at the first location are automatically picked and placed in the receptacle. If at least one item of the second type is ordered, the receptacle is first directed to a second location where items of the second type are stored. Items stored at the second location re automatically picked and placed in the receptacle and, if at least one item of the first type is also ordered, the receptacle is next directed to a first location where items of the first type are stored. Ordered items stored at the first location are then automatically picked and placed in the receptacle and the receptacle is directed to a location for further processing. If no item of the first type is also ordered, the receptacle is directed to a location for further processing after items stored at the second location have been picked and placed in the receptacle.

Automated order filling method and system

A driverless vehicle, propelled by a longitudinal drive shaft, is provided with a load supporting substrate coupled to the vehicle body by a floating mount which permits the substrate to be moved relative to the body in a limited manner. A precision locator for use with said vehicle orientates the substrate in three directions, namely fore-aft, transversely, and vertically.

Driverless vehicle with floating mounted substrate, and precision

The lane loading apparatus includes a wheeled frame reciprocal along the loading end of shelves. The frame supports a main carriage for vertical movement with respect to the shelves. The main carriage supports an auxiliary carriage for reciprocation toward and away from the loading end of the shelves. A lane actuator is supported by the auxiliary carriage for retracting an endless member and associated pusher in a lane to a reloading position.

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Alpha, NJ, United States of America

James L Thatcher