Automated shuttle apparatus and methods of using the same
US12024363B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 13, 2021 |
| Grant date | Jul 2, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 31, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06Q10/08
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Various embodiments are directed to a shuttle configured for use in an AS/RS. In various embodiments, the shuttle comprises: a first load arm and a second load arm configured to retractably extend away from a shuttle body in parallel directions, the first and second load arms each being extendable between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration; a load bed including a load area configured to receive the object; and a retractable mechanical finger provided at a distal portion of the first load arm and configured to facilitate handling of the object, the mechanical finger being hingedly connected to the first load arm using a one-way hinge component that defines a portion of the range of rotational movement of the mechanical finger relative to the first load arm and comprising a spring element that facilitates rotational movement of the finger between an expanded finger position and a retracted finger position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.