Single loop load/unload drive arrangement with latching push member for storage and retrieval system
US4556355A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 17, 1983 |
| Grant date | Dec 3, 1985 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 17, 2003 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G1/0435
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An article transfer arrangement of the type which is utilized to retrieve and store articles which are arranged in a matrix of compartments, such as in a warehouse. In a preferred embodiment, a push member which urges an article on the transfer arrangement into a selected one of the storage compartments is provided with a latching mechanism which facilitates withdrawal of an article which has become jammed during the storage procedure as a result of misalignment. In embodiments where the articles are tote bins of the type which are generally used in such storage systems, the exterior of the tote bins is provided with a depending member having push and pull surfaces. During the storing procedure, the push member communicates with the push surface of the depending member while the latching mechanism latchingly communicates with the pull surface. In case of a misalignment, the latching mechanism rigidly engages the pull surface so that reversal of the direction of drive pulls the tote bin outwardly of the storage compartment.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.