Inventory storage module having actuators that move storage totes around a conveyor loop
US10807798B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 31, 2017 |
| Grant date | Oct 20, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 26, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G1/1378
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
In one embodiment, an inventory storage module has first to fourth conveyor segments that define a conveying loop. The module translates storage totes around the conveying loop using, at least in part, first and second actuator assemblies. The first actuator assembly has a first actuator and a first crossbar connected to the first actuator. The first actuator assembly moves the first crossbar in a first direction such that the first crossbar engages and pushes totes along the first conveyor segment in the first direction. The second actuator assembly has a second actuator and a second crossbar connected to the second actuator. The second actuator assembly moves the second crossbar in a second direction, opposite the first direction, such that the second crossbar engages and pushes totes along the second segment in the second direction. The third and fourth segments transfer totes between the first and second segments.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.