First-in first-out article storage rack apparatus

Abstract

An article storage rack apparatus for storing and dispensing articles in first-in, first-out order comprises side-by-side columns of slant racks, in which alternate slant racks in each column are inclined downwardly in opposite direction. Articles are introduced onto the topmost slant rack and slide downward by gravity to successively lower slant racks. The articles are transferred from a slant rack to the next lower slant rack by a transfer mechanism comprising tables which are movable vertically and tiltable. The articles are maintained in the same orientation as they slide down the array of slant racks. At the lower end of the bottom slant rack, the articles are dispensed, by a tilting table dispenser, in the same order in which they were introduced onto the top slant rack.