Systems, methods, and devices for loading, storing, and dispensing objects

Abstract

In general, various embodiments of the present disclosure provide systems, methods, devices, techniques, and the like, for loading, storing, and / or dispensing objects in an automated and / or semi-automated manner. For example, various embodiments provide a storage system comprising: a frame comprising a shelf; a plurality of doors attached to the frame along a dispensing side, in which each of the plurality of doors can be independently opened and closed by operation of a respective release mechanism; a plurality of dividers adjustable to different positions along the length of the shelf to define storage compartments whose size varies along the length of the shelf so as to store objects of different sizes; and a controller, the controller for each storage compartment configured to cause release mechanisms corresponding to a series of doors of the plurality of doors corresponding to a size of the storage compartment to operate in unison to release objects stored in the storage compartment.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 516,049, filed on July 27, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to systems, methods, devices, techniques, etc. for loading, storing, and / or dispensing objects in an automated and / or semi-automated manner. Background Art

[0004] In logistics network operations, there is often a need to transport and distribute objects (e.g., packages with contents) between different locations while doing so efficiently, accurately, and with scalability. Traditionally, these processes rely on a lot of manual handling, which can inherently limit the capacity and adaptability of these operations. Therefore, in such situations, there is a need for improved automated or semi-automated handling of objects. Summary of the invention

[0005] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described in the detailed description below. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0006] In short, at a macro level, the present disclosure describes systems, methods, devices, techniques, etc. for loading, storing, and distributing objects in an automated and / or semi-automated manner. The embodiments described herein can be implemented in different object handling environments, such as environments associated with packaging (e.g., consumer goods), loading and unloading (e.g., cargo), routing and delivery (e.g., related to logistics network operations), etc. The specific embodiments described herein can be implemented in fixed environments (e.g., fixed facilities) and / or mobile environments (e.g., in vehicles, ships, aircraft, or other mobile transport vehicles). In addition, methods of using the aforementioned embodiments are also described herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The disclosed systems, methods, and apparatus for transporting, storing, storing, and handling objects are described in detail in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate non-limiting examples of the disclosed subject matter, in which:

[0008] Figure 1 Depicted are exemplary storage systems for storing and holding objects according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2B depicts an exemplary latching mechanism according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0010] Figure 3 Another exemplary storage system for storing and storing objects according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted;

[0011] 4A to 4D depicts exemplary dividers according to various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 5A and Figure 5B depicts exemplary storage compartments that have been defined for a storage system in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 6 Another exemplary storage system for storing and storing objects integrated into a mobile transporter according to various embodiments of the present disclosure is depicted;

[0014] Figure 7 Depicting an exemplary control system architecture suitable for supporting the operation of various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 8 Depicts exemplary computing hardware suitable for supporting the operations of various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] Fig. 9 depicts an example of a process for loading objects into a storage system according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0017] Fig.10 An example of a process for depositing an object from a storage system is depicted in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] This detailed description is provided to meet statutory requirements. However, this detailed description is not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Instead, the claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, including different steps, different combinations of steps, different operations, different combinations of operations, different elements and / or different combinations of elements, similar to those described in this disclosure and in conjunction with other existing or future technologies and solutions. Moreover, although the term "operation" may be used herein to identify different elements of the method employed, the term should not be interpreted as implying any particular order among or between different elements unless the order is explicitly described as such.

[0019] Generally speaking, disclosed herein are various embodiments of storage systems and related components that allow for adaptive, dynamic, and / or modifiable loading, storage, and / or placement of objects in an automated and / or semi-automated manner, including in different object handling environments. For example, various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented in logistics network operations to facilitate downstream routing. Thus, the various embodiments of the storage systems described herein may improve the efficiency, accuracy, and capacity of object handling processes or operations, among other advantages. Figures 1 to 10 Embodiments are described that achieve the above advantages.

[0020] The term "object" as used herein should also be broadly interpreted to include any one or more articles, items, substances and / or the like. For example, an "object" may be a package whose contents are intended for a specific destination in a logistics network.

[0021] The term "mobile robotic platform" as used herein should be broadly interpreted to include any device or component configuration that is movable and operates at least partially in an automated or semi-automated manner. For example, a mobile robotic platform can be configured to perform "last distance delivery" to a recipient in a logistics network operation. In addition, the mobile robotic platforms described herein can be ground-based, air-based and / or autonomously operated or at least partially autonomously operated. Examples of mobile robotic platforms contemplated herein include, but are not limited to, multi-legged robots (e.g., two-legged, four-legged, etc.), wheel-driven robots, track-driven robots, or other mobile configurations.

[0022] As used herein, a “logistics network” should be broadly interpreted to include any combination of components, systems, technologies, personnel, locations (including downstream locations and designated delivery destinations), and / or the like used to transport objects to different destinations.

[0023] Storage System

[0024] Steering Figure 1 , an exemplary storage system 100 is shown according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. The storage system 100 is adjustable / adaptable to facilitate loading, storing and storing objects of different sizes, shapes, specifications, types, etc. The storage system 100 includes a frame 110, a plurality of doors 120 ( Figure 1 Only a single door is identified in FIG) and a plurality of dividers 140 ( Figure 1 Only a single divider is identified in FIG. 1 ). The frame 110 includes (supports) a plurality of shelves 130. The shelves 130 may include one or more dividers 140, which may be placed at different locations thereon. In some embodiments, the number of doors 120, shelves 130, and / or dividers 140 may vary depending on the configuration of the frame 110.

[0025] In some embodiments, one or more shelves 130 of the frame 110 can be angled relative to a surface supporting the frame 110 such that the shelves 130 are tilted downward in the direction of gravity. This tilted orientation can facilitate depositing objects from the storage system 100. For example, this configuration can facilitate placing objects (e.g., object 160) from the storage system 100 directly into a storage bag or container, onto a conveyor mechanism, onto a sorting mechanism, onto a mobile robotic platform, and / or the like beneath the storage system 100.

[0026] In some embodiments, the mass of the package is the sole source of the driving force that pushes the door open and allows the package to slide out of the shelf. In these embodiments, the angle of the shelf, the materials used to make the shelf, and the design and corresponding mass of the door can be designed in coordination to ensure that no more than a certain percentage of packages will be unable to drive the door 120 purely by their own mass. This design process enables the designer to optimize the shelf performance based on the constraints applicable to each of these variables. (For example, as the angle of the shelf becomes steeper, the force generated by the package opening the door will become greater; but the volumetric efficiency of the shelf will decrease and the shelf may become more difficult to load). This behavior can be modeled by the following equation:

[0027] mg sin(θ)>F D cos(θ+α)+μ1F N +μ2F D cos(90-θ-α), where

[0028] F N = mg cos(θ) + F D sin(θ+α)

[0029]

[0030] in

[0031] m = package mass

[0032] m d = Door quality

[0033] g = acceleration due to gravity

[0034] θ = shelf angle

[0035] α = door angle (variable)

[0036] L cm = Distance from door hinge to door center of mass

[0037] Δh = distance perpendicular to the shelf between the top of the package and the hinge point

[0038] μ1 = coefficient of friction between the package and the shelf

[0039] μ2 = coefficient of friction between the package and the door

[0040] In one example, the rack is designed to have a rack angle of 35 degrees relative to horizontal and a worst case coefficient of friction between the package material and the rack material of 0.36. For these constraints, a door weighing 42 grams will typically allow >99% of the packages to successfully pass through the door without getting stuck.

[0041] Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the shelves 130 may be relatively parallel to the surface of the support frame 110. For example, the storage system 100 may be used to store objects directly to individuals who reach into the storage system 100 to remove / retrieve the objects. Thus, the shelves 130 do not necessarily need to be configured at an angle to enable individuals to enter the storage system 100 and / or remove / retrieve objects from the storage system 100.

[0042] Additionally, the shelf 130 may include an opening on a side of the frame 170 opposite to where the door 120 is located (also referred to as an object entry side). This configuration allows objects (e.g., packets or parcels) to be loaded onto the shelf 130 via the opening and securely stored in the storage system 100 through the door 120. Furthermore, the tilting of the shelf 130 may facilitate stacking of objects during loading and storage.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the opening on the object entry side may be protected by locking doors. These doors may all be of a single width, or of varying widths. In some embodiments, the width of these doors is an integer multiple of the width of a single door 120 on the dispensing side. Additionally, in some embodiments, these doors may be based at least in part on a control from a controller (e.g., Figure 7 The system may be selectively locked and / or unlocked based on input from a loading controller 740 in the system to allow a user to access only a specific set of compartments to load a given package without providing access to other packages elsewhere in the system.

[0044] Additionally or alternatively, one or more shelves 130 may include a series of rollers (e.g., rotatable wheels, tracks, etc.). These rollers may be mounted on the corresponding shelves 130 so that objects supported on the shelves 130 roll in the direction of the door 120, which limits the distribution of objects when the door is closed. These rollers may be actuated or purely passive in design. In some embodiments, a series of rollers may allow the shelves 130 to be at a shallow angle relative to the supporting surface while still providing a mechanism for dispensing items from the storage system 100 using gravity. In other embodiments, a series of rollers may simply allow individuals to more easily remove and / or retrieve objects from the storage system 100.

[0045] Additionally or alternatively, the frame 110 may include one or more push mechanisms coupled to each shelf 130. For example, each push mechanism may include a push structure attached to at least one actuator operable to extend and retract the push structure to facilitate pushing and / or dispensing objects when the door 120 is opened. In some embodiments, the push mechanism may facilitate dispensing objects from the storage system 100 when one or more shelves 130 are relatively parallel relative to a surface on which the frame 110 of the storage system 100 is supported.

[0046] exist Figure 1 , the door 120 is shown as being positioned along one side of the shelf 130 (e.g., along a lower side relative to the support surface). This side may also be referred to as the dispensing side of the storage system 100. The door 120 can be opened selectively (e.g., individually and / or in different combinations) to dispense items stored in corresponding storage compartments. In certain embodiments, each door 120 may include a release mechanism that enables items to be dispensed. The release mechanism can be used to secure the door 120 in a closed position to retain the items and / or allow the door 120 to move to an open position to dispense the items. The release mechanism that can be used includes, for example, an electromagnetic release mechanism, a latching mechanism, a locking mechanism, or a simple controlled operation of a rotary actuator attached to the door 120, or the like.

[0047] In various embodiments, controlled operation of the associated release mechanisms can allow the doors 120 to be opened individually and in different combinations (e.g., simultaneously) based at least in part on one or more dimensions of the corresponding storage compartments (i.e., defined by the dividers 140). In some embodiments, the release mechanisms attached to the doors 120 can also be controlled by the shelf controller to open the doors 120 and / or allow the doors 120 to be opened. For example, as further discussed herein, the shelf controller can send a signal to the release mechanisms attached to the doors 120 to open the doors 120 and / or allow the doors 120 to be opened.

[0048] An example of a release mechanism that can be used is a latching mechanism based at least in part on a solenoid. When a given solenoid is actuated, the latching mechanism connected to that solenoid is released, and the door 120 secured by that latching mechanism can then be freely opened. Thus, the door 120 can be pushed open, for example, by the weight of an object behind the door or by other actuation sources, such as a roller or pusher that drives the object, an actuator that acts directly on the door, etc.

[0049] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Examples of latching mechanisms 210, 220, 230 that may be used in various embodiments are shown. Figure 2A As shown, each of the latching mechanisms 210, 220, 230 includes a solenoid 215, 225, 235 that is bidirectional and can be actuated in either direction. Figure 2B As shown, the solenoid 215 can move in the first direction to kick the upper finger 245 of the first door 240 located below the latching mechanism 210, thereby allowing the first door 240 to swing open. In some embodiments, the movement of the solenoid 215 can actuate a mechanism to force the first door 240 to open, the mechanism being exemplified by an angled kicker attached to the solenoid 215. However, the movement of the solenoid 215 in the first direction does not release the lower finger 255 of the second door 250 located above the latching mechanism 210, but still prohibits the second door 250 from swinging open. In addition, the solenoid 225 of the latching mechanism 220 located below the first door 240 can move in the first direction to release the lower finger 246 of the first door 240 to unlock the first door 240 and allow the first door 240 to swing open. And the movement of the solenoid 225 in the second direction can kick the upper finger 265 of the third door 260 located below the latching mechanism 220, thereby allowing the third door 260 to open.

[0050] The door 120 may have different configurations in different embodiments. For example, the door 120 may be pivotally coupled to the housing of the storage system through the integration of one or more hinges to pivot outwardly and / or inwardly. In another example, the door 120 may be coupled to the housing through the integration of a track so that the door 120 can slide. In another example, the door 120 may be coupled to the housing through the integration of a roller-door mechanism so that the door 120 can roll. In another example, the door 120 may include a rigid material portion that is joined together to form a sheet that is rigid in two directions but flexible in another direction, thereby allowing the door 120 to roll up and down to facilitate opening and closing positions. In another example, the door 120 may include an iris-type mechanism that includes a rigid panel, a flexible material, or other elements that enable the door 120 to transition between a closed position and an open position.

[0051] Figure 3 It is shown how the dividers 140 of different embodiments can be placed along the shelf 130 to divide the shelf 130 into different storage compartments 310, 320, 330. For example, the dividers 140 can be of various types, such as retractable dividers, slidable dividers, foldable dividers, rotatable dividers, inflatable dividers, expandable dividers, etc. Depending on the type of divider 140 used, the divider 140 can be placed (e.g., slid, inserted, etc.) at different locations on the shelf 130 to define different storage compartments 310, 320, 330.

[0052] Thus, the dividers 140 can define different storage compartments 310, 320, 330, which are different in size (e.g., width) to accommodate objects 360, 380 of different sizes (e.g., small packages or parcels of different sizes) to be stored in the different storage compartments 310, 320, 330. In addition, the dividers 140 can be aligned along the shelf 130 so that they are located between the doors 120 on the shelf 130. The storage system 100 can then allow the stored objects 360, 380 to be dispensed by opening a corresponding series of doors 120 associated with the sizes of the storage compartments 310, 320, 330. For example, the storage system 100 can facilitate opening a series of doors 120 that correspond to one or more sizes (e.g., width) of the storage compartments 310, 320, 330 to dispense the items 360, 380 stored therein.

[0053] For example, Figure 3 Described is how objects 380 are placed on the shelves 130 of the storage system 100 for storage. Here, dividers 140 are positioned along the shelves 130 to define unique storage compartments 330 that securely store objects 380. Once the dividers 140 are positioned, the objects 380 are loaded into the storage compartments 330 from the side of the shelf 130 having the opening 350 (e.g., the object entry side). The objects 380 can then be dispensed by operating a series of doors 120 corresponding to one or more dimensions (e.g., width) of the storage compartments 330.

[0054] Thus, the use of dividers 140 defining different storage compartments 310, 320, 330 of various sizes in various embodiments together with the selectively operated door 120 can allow the storage system 100 to accommodate a higher density of objects 360, 380, as well as a greater variety of objects 360, 380 (e.g., in terms of size and shape). Thus, various embodiments of the storage system 100 can increase the efficiency, capacity, and throughput of object handling operations, among other benefits.

[0055] 4A to 4D An example of a divider 140 that can be used in various embodiments of the storage system 100 is described, which can be referred to as a push-down spring divider 400A, 400B, 400C, 400D. The push-down spring dividers 400A, 400B, 400C, 400D are typically made of a soft material suitable for making a flexural element, such as a thin metal (steel) or a fatigue-resistant polymer such as polypropylene. FIG. 4A to FIG. 4C The implementation of the push-down spring spacers 400A, 400B, 400C, 400D is shown. For example, Figure 4AThe dividers 400A, 400B, 400C, 400D shown in FIG. 1 are installed along the shelf 130 so that the push-down spring dividers 400A, 400B, 400C, 400D are aligned between the doors 120 of the shelf 130 .

[0056] When an object 410 is loaded onto the shelf 130, the object 410 is placed on top of and / or between one or more push-down spring dividers 400A, 400D. Figure 4B As shown, for any compression spring divider 400B, 400C on top of which an object 410 is placed, the weight of the object 410 compresses the compression spring divider 400B, 400C to lie substantially flat on the shelf 130. For the immediately adjacent compression spring dividers 400A, 400D between which the object 410 is located, these compression spring dividers 400A, 400D serve as dividers defining the storage compartment 430 in which the object 410 is stored.

[0057] In a specific embodiment, if Figure 4C The illustrated push-down spring divider 400B is designed so that the first end 440 of the push-down spring divider 400B is attached to the shelf. For example, the first end 440 of the push-down spring divider 400B can be attached to the back of the shelf 130 loaded with objects. The second end 450 of the push-down spring divider 400B is free to carry some type of mechanism such as a roller to allow the push-down spring divider 400B to roll toward the front of the shelf 130 and the door 120 once an object is placed on the push-down spring divider 400B.

[0058] In other embodiments, Figure 4D The spring-down divider 400E shown can be configured so that when the spring-down divider 400E is compressed, it can preferably be locked in place by a mechanism. A variety of mechanisms can be used to perform this locking. For example, a rotating ratchet 460 is located on the back side of the flexible member (near the loading point). In addition, a simple latch, such as a latch with a buffer 470, can be used on the front of the flexible member and / or the bistable spring mechanism, which allows the push-down spring divider 400E to "snap" between the fully upright state and the fully compressed state. The latch mechanism can prevent the push-down spring divider 400E from providing an upward force to the packages loaded on top of it, which may interfere with the distribution of the packages.

[0059] Thus, in various embodiments, the spring-down dividers 400A, 400B, 400C, 400D, 400E may enable objects to be loaded onto the shelves 130 of the storage system 100 without the need to (manually) position dividers along the shelves 130 to define different storage compartments for the shelves 130. Thus, the spring-down dividers 400A, 400B, 400C, 400D, 400E may facilitate increasing the speed at which objects may be loaded onto the shelves 130. Additionally, the spring-down dividers 400A, 400B, 400C, 400D, 400E may also enable an external sensing system to detect the state of a given spring-down divider 400A, 400B, 400C, 400D, 400E, which may allow a shelf controller to infer what locations along the shelf are or are not occupied by objects. For example, a Hall Effect sensor may be used to detect a magnet embedded in the body of the push-down spring divider 400A, 400B, 400C, 400D, 400E.

[0060] See also Figure 5A and Figure 5B , exemplary storage compartments that have been defined for a storage system 100 are provided according to various embodiments. Here, the storage system 100 includes a frame 110 and a shelf 130, which has a first storage compartment 512 and a second storage compartment 514 that have been defined by positioning dividers 140 along the shelf 130. In addition, the storage system 100 includes a first set of doors 522 associated with the first storage compartment 512, and a second set of doors 524 associated with the second storage compartment 514. The number of doors 120 included in the first set of doors 522 corresponds to one or more dimensions of the first storage compartment 512 to allow for the allocation of objects 560 stored in the first storage compartment 512. Similarly, the number of doors 120 included in the second set of doors 524 corresponds to one or more dimensions of the second storage compartment 514 to allow for the allocation of objects 580 stored in the second storage compartment 514.

[0061] For example, in Figure 5A , a first set of doors 522 associated with a first storage compartment 512 includes two doors 120 that are opened by operation of one or more release mechanisms 550 attached to the doors 120 to allow an object 560 having a width dimension similar to that of the first storage compartment 512 to be dispensed from the first storage compartment 512. Figure 5B , a second set of doors 524 associated with the second storage compartment 514 includes four doors 120 that are opened by operation of one or more release mechanisms 550 attached to the doors 120 to allow objects 580 having a width dimension similar to that of the second storage compartment 514 to be dispensed from the second storage compartment 514.

[0062] In some embodiments, the storage system 100 is configured such that a series of doors that operate in conjunction with the storage compartments are automatically assigned based at least in part on the arrangement of the dividers 140 that define the storage compartments. For example, the dividers 140 may be placed along the shelf 130 to form a first storage compartment 512 that corresponds to, for example, Figure 5A The width of the pair of doors 120 shown. As further discussed herein, based at least in part on the placement of the divider 140, the pair of doors 120 can be automatically assigned as a first set of doors 522 associated with the first storage compartment 512 to support the storage / dispensing function. Thus, when the object 560 stored in the first storage compartment 512 is ready to be dispensed, the first set of doors 522 can be manually and / or mechanically operated by operating one or more release mechanisms 550.

[0063] See Figure 5B , a similar release operation is performed by the storage system 100 for a second storage compartment 514 associated with a second set of doors 524 including four doors 120. Therefore, the four doors 120 correspond to the width of the second storage compartment 514 to allow objects 580 of similar width to be allocated from the second storage compartment 514. The storage system 100 in various embodiments stores and allocates objects 560, 580 of different sizes, shapes, dimensions, etc. and the ability to dynamically optimize the shapes of the storage compartments 512, 514 to match the sizes, shapes, dimensions, etc. of these objects 560, 580, can reduce unused space. In addition, this ability allows the storage system 100 in various embodiments to transfer objects with greater efficiency, adaptability, capacity, etc.

[0064] Example usage environment

[0065] See also Figure 6 , an exemplary use environment involving a mobile transporter 600 is provided according to various embodiments, the mobile transporter including a plurality of storage systems 100. In addition to the storage systems 100, the mobile transporter 600 also includes first and second conveying mechanisms 610, 620, which can carry objects distributed from the storage systems 100 to a downstream location, in this case a mobile robotic platform 630. For example, the mobile robotic platform 530 can be configured to perform last-mile delivery through automatic or semi-automatic operation. Last-mile delivery can be understood as delivering an object over a final distance (a segment of a route) to the final delivery destination of the object.

[0066] In certain embodiments, multiple storage systems 100 are coupled with a repositioning system integrated into the mobile transport 600 that can be operated to reposition each storage system 100 to a different location in the mobile transport 600. For example, the repositioning system can involve an actuated track on which each storage system 100 sits, and can be driven side by side to open a space for the door 120 of each storage system 100 above the first conveyor mechanism 610 to allow the door 120 to dispense the object onto the first conveyor mechanism 610. Once dispensed, the first conveyor mechanism 610 transports the object down to the second conveyor mechanism 620, and the second conveyor mechanism 620 transports the object to the mobile robotic platform 630.

[0067] This ability to reposition each storage system 100 relative to the first conveyor mechanism 610 allows objects stored in different portions of the plurality of storage systems 100 to be distributed to the first conveyor mechanism 610 and subsequently distributed to the second conveyor mechanism 620 for transport to the mobile robotic platform 530. For example, the repositioning system may move one or more storage systems 100 to one side, which allows the remaining storage systems 100 to position their doors 120 to distribute objects onto the first conveyor mechanism 610. This ability to reposition the storage systems 100 to different locations within the interior may improve space efficiency and adaptability within the mobile transporter 600.

[0068] The same relocation system can also be used to provide access to the back of the storage system 100 to load objects into the storage system, for example, during a pre-loading process at a logistics facility, or during pre-loading in the field when the storage system is to be replenished with additional capacity.

[0069] Depending on the embodiment, the storage system 100 described herein may be enclosed within a mobile transporter 600 (e.g., a vehicle, an aircraft, etc.), or enclosed within a fixed cabinet (e.g., a delivery box, a facility, etc.). For example, the storage system 100 may be placed at an access point inside or outside a building, where the storage system 100 is loaded with objects, which are then distributed to individuals who access the storage system 100 to retrieve the objects from the storage system 100. In certain embodiments, the storage system 100 may be configured such that each side of the storage system 100 is enclosed to ensure the security of the objects stored in the storage system 100. For example, the storage system 100 may be configured with a door covering the rear of the storage system 100 (e.g., the object entrance side), which is protected (e.g., locked) by the individual responsible for loading the objects into the storage system 100. Similarly, the storage system 100 may be configured with one or more walls covering the sides of the storage system 100 to prevent access to the shelves 130 of the storage system 100.

[0070] An individual may access the storage system 100 and provide some type of identification for an object being stored in the storage system 100. For example, the storage system 100 may be equipped with some type of input mechanism, such as a keyboard, a barcode scanner, an optical scanner, etc., through which the individual provides the identification of the object. In turn, the storage system 100 in various embodiments may then actuate a series of doors of the storage system 100 corresponding to the storage compartments in which the items are stored to distribute the items to the individual.

[0071] In another example, the storage system 100 may be used in an environment where there may be concerns about the security of stored objects when other objects are loaded into the storage system 100. For example, the storage system 100 may be used in an environment where multiple parties independent of one another may use the storage system 100 to store and distribute objects. Therefore, these independent parties may be concerned that other parties may be able to access their objects stored in the storage system 100 when their objects are loaded into the storage system 100.

[0072] Thus, the storage system 100 may be configured in some embodiments to have externally accessible locking doors of different sizes at the rear of the storage system 100 (e.g., the object entrance side of the storage system 100) to allow objects to be safely loaded into the storage system 100. For example, the storage system 100 may be configured to have doors of different sizes on different shelves 130 at the rear of the storage system 100 to accommodate storage compartments of different sizes on the shelves 130. As a specific example, the storage system 100 may be configured to have doors for a first shelf 130, a second shelf 130, and a third shelf 130, etc. at the rear of the storage system 100, wherein the size of the door for the first shelf 130 is the size of a series of doors including a single front door 120, the size of the door for the second shelf 130 is the size of a series of doors including two front doors 120, and the size of the door for the third shelf 130 is the size of a series of doors including three front doors 120.

[0073] The dividers 140 may be pre-installed to define storage compartments on each shelf 130 according to different sizes of doors on the rear of the storage system 100. In this way, the storage system 100 can accommodate storage compartments of different sizes that can be loaded by a particular party while preventing access to other storage compartments that may store objects of other parties. That being said, the size of the doors on the rear of the storage system 100 can be adjusted for different shelves 130 to accommodate storage compartments of different sizes, thereby addressing changes in the volume of items, use by different groups, and / or the like.

[0074] In some embodiments, a particular party may be authorized (e.g., assigned) access to a particular door at the back of the storage system 100 for storing and dispensing objects, as well as the mechanism required to access the particular door (e.g., key, access code, etc.). In this way, a particular party can only access its assigned door to store objects in the storage system 100, and cannot access doors assigned to other parties.

[0075] Additionally or alternatively, a third party may provide information about an object that the party wishes to store in the storage system 100, and the storage system 100 may then provide access to a specific door at the rear of the storage system 100. For example, the storage system 100 may provide some mechanism that a party (e.g., an individual thereof) may use to provide information about an object to be stored in the storage system 100, such as a keyboard, a barcode scanner, an optical scanner, etc. As a specific example, the storage system 100 may provide an optical scanner that the party may use to scan a quick response (QR) code that provides the dimensions of the object. In turn, the storage system 100 may use the dimensions to identify an available storage compartment in which the object may be stored, and then open the door at the rear of the storage system 100 for the identified storage compartment.

[0076] Control system architecture

[0077] See also Figure 7 , an example of a control system architecture 700 is provided that is suitable for supporting the operation of various embodiments of the storage system 100. The control system architecture 700 includes a system controller 710 that operates to handle the overall loading / distribution of objects to / from the storage system 100. In some embodiments, the system controller 710 may be configured as part of the storage system 100. For example, the storage system 100 may include a separate, secure drawer, shelf, etc. in which the system controller 710 is installed. In other embodiments, the system controller 710 may be installed in the environment in which the storage system 100 operates. For example, the system controller 710 may be installed in a mobile transporter 600 in which the storage system 100 is installed and used.

[0078] The control system architecture 700 may also include a loading controller 740. Similar to the system controller 710, the loading controller 740 may be installed as part of the storage system 100, or installed in the environment in which the storage system 100 operates. In various embodiments, the loading controller 740 facilitates loading objects into the storage system 100 by providing aspects that allow the storage system 100 to identify the objects being loaded into the storage system 100. In some embodiments, the storage system 100 may provide some mechanism, such as a keyboard, a barcode scanner, an optical scanner, etc., to allow an individual to identify the objects being loaded into the storage system 100. For example, the object may have a shipping label with a barcode that an individual may scan using a barcode scanner. In turn, the loading controller 740 may receive identification data for the object through the mechanism. In certain embodiments, the loading controller 740 may be configured to operate the mechanism.

[0079] In other embodiments, the loading controller 740 may communicate (e.g., interface) with some kind of production system 770 via the system controller 710 over a network 720 (e.g., a local area network (LAN), an intranet, an extranet, the Internet, etc.). For example, the storage system 100 may be used in a logistics network for storing, transferring, and distributing packages to customers of a logistics organization. The production system 770 may be part of a logistics network for tracking packages for a logistics organization. Here, the production system 770 may communicate with the system controller 710 and the loading controller 740 over the network 720 and provide identification data for objects being loaded into the storage system 100.

[0080] In other embodiments, the individual may be provided with another tool, such as a mobile application, through which the individual can enter identification data of the object being loaded into the storage system 100. The mobile application can then transmit the identification data to the loading controller 740. For example, the mobile application can transmit the identification data to the system controller 710 via the network 720 and to the loading controller 740 via the production system. Additionally or alternatively, the mobile application can provide a scannable code, such as a QR code, that the individual scans via a mechanism provided by the storage system 100 to enter the identification data.

[0081] The control system architecture 700 may also include one or more shelf controllers 730. For example, each shelf 13 in the storage system may be equipped with a shelf controller 730. Likewise, the shelf controller 730 may be installed as part of the storage system 100 or in the environment in which the storage system 100 operates. In various embodiments, the shelf controller 730 assists in loading objects into the storage system 100 by identifying the storage location of objects within the storage system 100; by detecting the status of shelf components such as dividers and doors; and by actuating doors to allocate or allow loading of objects as described herein.

[0082] In a particular embodiment, the space provided on the shelf 130 can be divided into cells. For example, the space provided on the shelf 130 can be divided into cells aligned with the door 120 for distributing objects stored on the shelf 130. Therefore, the shelf controller 730 for the shelf 130 can identify each cell by an identifier assigned to the cell (e.g., a cell identifier). Additionally or alternatively, the shelf controller 730 can identify the border of each cell by an identifier assigned to each border (e.g., a border identifier). The border of a cell is understood to be the space, edge, etc. between the cell and the adjacent cell. Therefore, each cell is generally understood to have two borders.

[0083] In some embodiments, shelf 130 may be configured with some kind of sensor to detect an object being placed on shelf 130, such as a Hall effect sensor; a physical switch, such as a reed switch; a force or pressure sensor, such as a force sensitive resistor; an optical sensor, such as a photoeye; or other similar sensors familiar to professionals. For example, shelf 130 may be configured with one or more sensors associated with each cell of shelf 130. Thus, when an object is placed on shelf 130, shelf controller 730 may receive a signal from the sensor corresponding to the cell where the object has been placed, and may therefore identify where the object is placed on shelf 130 (e.g., position).

[0084] Additionally or alternatively, the shelf 130 may be configured with one or more sensors to detect placement of the dividers 140 on the shelf 130. For example, the dividers 140 may be positioned along the shelf 130 such that the dividers 140 are generally aligned with the borders of the cells and, therefore, with the edges of the corresponding doors 120. Here, the borders of each cell may be associated with one or more sensors. Thus, when the dividers 140 are placed on the borders of one or more cells along the shelf 130 to define storage compartments for storing objects, the shelf controller 730 may receive signals from the sensors of the borders corresponding to the placement location of the dividers 140 and, therefore, may identify where (e.g., the location) the object has been placed (or will be placed) on the shelf 130.

[0085] In an embodiment using push-down spring dividers, each push-down spring divider may be associated with one or more sensors. Here, when an object is placed on the shelf 130, the shelf controller 730 may receive signals from the sensors associated with the push-down spring dividers that have been compressed by the object to lie substantially flat on the shelf 130. As a result, the shelf controller 730 may identify the position (e.g., location) of the object placed on the shelf 130.

[0086] The shelf controller 730 for the shelf 130 can use signals received from sensors associated with cells, cell borders, dividers, and / or any combination thereof to identify where an object is placed on the shelf 130 (e.g., a location). In addition, the shelf controller 730 can generate location data for the object that identifies where the object is placed on the shelf 130. For example, the shelf controller 730 can generate location data that identifies the shelf (e.g., a shelf identifier) ​​and a cell (e.g., a cell identifier) ​​associated with the location on the shelf 130 where the object is placed. Additionally or alternatively, the shelf controller 730 can generate location data that identifies a border of a cell (e.g., a border identifier) ​​where the divider 140 is located to define a storage compartment for storing items on the shelf 130.

[0087] Additionally, in some embodiments, the shelf controller 730 may provide a visible indication of where objects are stored on the shelf 130 that is visible at the rear of the storage system 100 (e.g., the object entrance side). For example, the storage system 100 may be configured to provide an indicator, such as a lighting element, at the rear of the storage system 100 for each cell of the shelf 130. Here, the shelf controller 730 may cause the lighting element associated with the cell where the object is stored on the shelf 130 to illuminate to indicate where the object is placed on the shelf 130. This feature is helpful in situations where the storage system 100 includes a door located at the rear of the storage system 100 and an individual cannot easily view the interior of the shelf 130 to determine what space on the shelf 130 has been occupied (e.g., stored) by an item.

[0088] In some cases, the indicator may be displayed in a certain configuration to indicate whether the associated cell (e.g., its shelf space) is currently occupied by an object. For example, the lighting element may be configured to illuminate a first color (e.g., green) when the associated cell is not currently occupied by an object. Once the associated cell is occupied by an object, the shelf controller 730 may then cause the cell to illuminate a second different color (e.g., red). This configuration may allow individuals loading items into the storage system 100 to more quickly identify where there is space on the shelf 130 that can be used to store items.

[0089] In various embodiments, the load controller 740 and the shelf controller 730 provide identification data and location data of objects stored in the storage system 100 to the system controller 710. The system controller 710 can, in turn, combine the identification data and location data into, for example, object data, and store the object data locally. For example, the system controller 710 can include a non-volatile memory in which the system controller 710 stores the object data. Additionally or alternatively, the storage system 100 can be associated with some type of storage medium that can be installed as part of the storage system 100 or installed in the environment in which the storage system 100 operates. Here, the system controller 710 can store the object data in the storage medium.

[0090] Additionally or alternatively, system controller 710 may transmit the object data to a remote system such as production system 770 via network 720. In some embodiments, system controller 710 may transmit the object data to production system 770 for the purpose of storing the object data by production system 770. In some embodiments, system controller 710 may transmit the object data to production system 770 for the additional or alternative purpose of causing production system 770 to process the object data when performing a task associated with the object data.

[0091] For example, the production system 770 may generate a communication (e.g., an email, a text message, etc.) that is sent to the individual notifying him or her that the object is available through the storage system 100. In addition, the production system 770 may include information in the communication that can be used to retrieve the object from the storage system 100. For example, the production system 770 may include a code that the individual may enter or scan into a keyboard or scanner to cause the storage system 100 to dispense the object.

[0092] The control system architecture 700 may also include a distribution controller 750. Like other controllers, the distribution controller 750 may be installed as part of the storage system 100 or in the environment in which the storage system 100 operates. In various embodiments, the distribution controller 750 assists in distributing objects from the storage system 100.

[0093] When an object is to be dispensed from the storage system 100, the dispensing controller 750 in certain embodiments receives identification data for the object. In some embodiments, the storage system 100 may include some mechanism, such as a keyboard, barcode scanner, optical scanner, etc., to allow an individual to enter identification data for an object they wish to retrieve from the storage system 100. For example, an individual may enter a numeric code associated with the object into a keyboard, or may use an optical scanner to scan a QR code associated with the object.

[0094] In other embodiments, the distribution controller 750 and / or the system controller 710 may receive identification data of an object from a remote system, such as the production system 770, via the network 720. For example, the production system 770 may be part of a logistics network of a package carrier. The package carrier may use the storage system 100 to store, transport, and distribute packages for delivery to a final destination. Here, the storage system 100 may operate autonomously based on instructions received at least in part from the production system 770 when distributing objects. Therefore, the production system 770 may communicate with the distribution controller 750 and / or the system controller 710 via the network 720 to provide identification data of objects distributed from the storage system 100.

[0095] In other embodiments, the distribution controller 750 may receive identification data of the object from other sources, such as the mobile robotic platform 630. Likewise, the storage system 100 may operate autonomously when distributing objects based at least in part on instructions received from the mobile robotic platform 630. Thus, the mobile robotic platform 630 may communicate with the distribution controller 750 via the network 720 to provide identification data of the object.

[0096] The distribution controller 750 may forward the identification data of the object to the system controller 710. In turn, the system controller 710 may use the identification data of the object to determine the location where the object is stored in the storage system 100. For example, the system controller 710 may use the identification data to retrieve object data for the object. The system controller 710 may then use the object data to determine the shelf 130 where the object is stored (e.g., a shelf identifier), and the cell of the shelf 130 where the object is located (e.g., a cell identifier and / or a bounding box identifier).

[0097] The system controller 710 may then send instructions (e.g., one or more signals) to the shelf controller 730 of the shelf 130 for storing the object. The instructions may identify the cell where the object is located (e.g., a cell identifier and / or a border identifier). Upon receiving the instructions, the shelf controller 730 may open a series of doors on the shelf 130 corresponding to the cell where the object is located so that the object can be dispensed from the storage system 100. For example, the shelf controller 730 may activate a release mechanism for each door so that the door opens and / or can be opened to dispense the object.

[0098] The control system architecture 700 may also include a human-machine interface 760 configured to allow an individual to interact (e.g., configure, monitor, view data, etc.) with the various controllers, sensors, storage, etc. that make up the control system architecture 700. For example, the human-machine interface 760 may allow an individual to set network credentials for the system controller 710 to interface with the production system 770, set sensitivity configurations for one or more sensors, view object data regarding various objects currently stored by the storage system 100, etc.

[0099] Certain aspects of the control system architecture 700 may take the form of hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software. For example, certain aspects of the control system architecture 700 may take the form of a computer program including computer executable instructions embodied on one or more non-transitory computer readable media. Additionally or alternatively, certain aspects of the control system architecture 700 may take the form of hard-coded implementations into the mechanical design of computing components and / or may be built into embodiments of computing hardware as described herein.

[0100] Computer executable instructions embodied on one or more non-volatile computer-readable media may include applications, programs, program modules, scripts, source code, program code, object code, bytecode, compiled code, interpreted code, machine code, executable instructions, etc. (also referred to herein as executable instructions, execution instructions, computer program products, program code, or similar terms, which may be used interchangeably). Such non-volatile computer-readable media include all computer-readable media (including volatile and non-volatile media). However, computer executable instructions are not embodied on volatile computer-readable media.

[0101] For example, the non-volatile computer-readable storage medium may include a floppy disk, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a solid-state storage (SSS) (e.g., a solid-state drive (SSD), a solid-state card (SSC), a solid-state module (SSM)), an enterprise flash drive, a magnetic tape, or any other non-transitory magnetic medium, and / or the like. The non-volatile computer-readable storage medium may also include a punch card, a paper tape, an optical marker sheet (or any other physical medium having a hole pattern or other optically recognizable markings), a compact disc-read only memory (CD-ROM), a compact disc-rewritable disc (CD-RW), a digital versatile disc (DVD), a Blu-ray disc (BD), any other non-transitory optical medium, and / or the like. Such non-volatile computer-readable storage media may also include read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory (e.g., serial, NAND, NOR, and / or the like), multimedia storage card (MMC), secure digital (SD) storage card, smart media card, compact flash (CF) card, memory stick, and / or the like. In addition, the non-volatile computer-readable storage medium may also include conductive bridging random access memory (CBRAM), phase change random access memory (PRAM), ferroelectric random access memory (FeRAM), non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), magnetic random access memory (MRAM), resistive random access memory (RRAM), silicon-oxide-nitride-oxide-silicon memory (SONOS), floating junction gate random access memory (FJG RAM), millipede memory, racetrack memory, and / or the like.

[0102] The volatile computer-readable storage medium may include random access memory (RAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), fast page mode dynamic random access memory (FPM DRAM), extended data output dynamic random access memory (EDO DRAM), synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), double information / data rate synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR SDRAM), double information / data rate type 2 synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR2 SDRAM), double information / data rate type 3 synchronous dynamic random access memory (DDR3 SDRAM), Rambus dynamic random access memory (RDRAM), two-transistor RAM (TTRAM), thyristor RAM (T-RAM), zero capacitor (Z-RAM), Rambus in-line memory module (RIMM), dual in-line memory module (DIMM), single in-line memory module (SIMM), video random access memory (VRAM), cache (including various levels), flash memory, register storage, and / or the like. It will be appreciated that where embodiments are described as using computer-readable storage media, other types of computer-readable storage media may be substituted or used in addition to the computer-readable storage media described above.

[0103] See also Figure 8 , a block diagram of example computing hardware 800 suitable for supporting the various operations described herein with respect to the control system architecture 700. For example, the computing hardware 800 may be a system controller 710, a shelf controller 730, a load controller 740, and / or a distribution controller 750, such as Figure 7 It should be understood that although Figure 8 Some components in the embodiment are presented in singular form, but they may also be in plural form, and the components may be connected in different ways, such as local or distributed configurations. For example, computing hardware 800 may include multiple processors and / or multiple memories. Figure 8 As shown, the computing hardware 800 includes a bus 9 that directly or indirectly connects different components together, including a memory 2, a processor 3, a presentation component 4 (if applicable), a radio device 5, an input / output (I / O) port 6, an input / output (I / O) component 7, and a power supply 8.

[0104] The memory 2 may take the form of a memory component described herein. Therefore, it will not be further elaborated here, but the memory 2 may include any tangible medium capable of storing data (e.g., information). In addition, the memory 2 may include a data structure such as a database, which stores a collection of records, data and / or other information associated with storing and distributing objects from the storage system 100 as described herein. In addition, the memory 2 may store a series of computer executable instructions that perform different functions or operations described herein when executed. Computer executable instructions may be referred to as "instructions", "modules" and / or "applications" for short. The processor 3 may be one or more processors that receive instructions and process the instructions accordingly. The presentation component 4 may include a display, a speaker, a screen, a portable digital device and / or other components (e.g., a display, a screen, a light, a light emitting diode (LED), a graphical user interface (GUI) and / or an illuminated keyboard) that can present information through visual, auditory and / or other tactile prompts.

[0105] The radio 5 may support communications over one or more networks 720, and may additionally or alternatively support or facilitate different types of wireless communications, such as Wi-Fi, WiMAX, LTE, Bluetooth, and / or VoIP communications, among other communications protocols. In various aspects, the radio 5 may be configured to support multiple technologies, and / or multiple radios may be configured and used to support multiple technologies.

[0106] Input / output (I / O) ports 6 may take a variety of forms. Exemplary I / O ports may include USB jacks, stereo jacks, infrared ports, and / or other proprietary communication ports. Input / output (I / O) components 7 may include one or more keyboards, microphones, speakers, touch screens, and / or any other items that can be used to directly or indirectly input data into computing hardware 800. Power supply 8 may include a power supply, a battery, a generator, a fuel cell, and / or other components that can act as a power source to power computing hardware 800 and / or other components described herein.

[0107] Loading Module

[0108] Now turn to Fig. 9 , according to various embodiments, provides additional details about a load module for loading an object into the storage system 100. Thus, when the computing hardware 800 executes the load module, Fig. 9 The illustrated flow diagram may correspond to operations performed, for example, by computing hardware 800 , such as system controller 710 in control system architecture 700 described herein.

[0109] As previously mentioned, an individual may wish to load an object into the storage system 100. In this regard, the storage system 100 may provide some type of mechanism for the individual to provide identification data of the object to be loaded. For example, the storage system 100 may provide a barcode scanner that the individual uses to scan a barcode associated with the object (e.g., a barcode displayed on a label attached to the object) to provide the identification data of the object. The barcode scanner may communicate with the loading controller 740, which sends the identification data to the system controller 710.

[0110] Thus, process 900 involves the loading module receiving identification data of the object in operation 910. The identification data may include different forms of data for identifying the object. For example, the identification data may include a unique object identifier for the object in the form of a unique shipping number printed on a shipping label attached to the object. In another example, the identification data may be a unique object identifier for the object in the form of a unique serial number printed on the object during manufacture of the object.

[0111] In operation 920, the loading module confirms that the object will be stored in the storage system. For example, the object may involve a package that is shipped to a delivery destination by a transportation carrier. Here, the loading module may send a communication containing at least a portion of the identification data to the production system 770 of the transportation carrier to confirm that the parcel will be stored in the storage system 100 as part of the transportation route for shipping the parcel to the delivery destination. In turn, the production system 770 may return a communication confirming that the parcel will be stored in the storage system 100 as part of the delivery route to the delivery destination. In addition, the production system 770 may provide additional information along with the confirmation, such as the delivery destination, who is authorized to receive delivery of the parcel, and the like.

[0112] In another example, the object may relate to medical supplies needed by a particular department in a hospital. Here, the storage system 100 may be located on a certain floor of the hospital and is used to distribute the medical supplies needed on that floor. Therefore, the loading module may send a communication with at least a portion of the identification data to the production system 770 (e.g., an inventory system) of the hospital to confirm that a particular department working on a particular floor uses the medical supplies to be loaded into the storage system 100.

[0113] In some embodiments, the loading module may provide some type of indication to the individual loading the object as to whether the object has been confirmed for loading into the storage system 100. For example, the loading module may cause the mechanism used by the individual in providing the object's identification data to display some signal (e.g., illumination of a green or red light) and / or generate some sound (e.g., emit a positive "beep" or a negative "beep") to indicate whether the object has been confirmed for loading into the storage system 100.

[0114] Additionally or alternatively, the loading module can facilitate opening a door on the rear of the storage system 100 upon confirming that an object will be loaded into the storage system 100, so that an individual will be able to access the storage system 100 to load the object. The loading module can identify which door to open by determining where there is space available in the storage system 100 to store the item. For example, the identification data of the object can also include the dimensions of the object. The loading module can use the dimensions to identify the space available in the storage system 100 and that the space is the appropriate size for storing the object. The loading module can then facilitate opening the door for the identified space.

[0115] If the item is confirmed to be loaded into the storage system 100, the individual can proceed to load the item onto the shelf 130 of the storage system 100. In this way, the individual can place the item on the shelf 130 at an available location on the shelf 130. In addition, the individual can position one or more dividers 140 to define a storage compartment for storing items. As a result, the shelf controller 730 for the shelf 130 can receive one or more signals from a sensor indicating where the object has been placed on the shelf 130. For example, the shelf controller 730 can receive one or more cell identifiers and / or border identifiers corresponding to the cells of the shelf 130 where the object is placed. The shelf controller 730 can then send location data including, for example, the shelf identifier and the cell identifier and / or border identifier of the shelf 130 to the system controller 710.

[0116] Thus, in operation 930, the loading module receives location data identifying where the object is loaded into the storage system 100. In certain embodiments, in operation 940, the loading module combines the identification data and the location data for the object to generate object data and stores the object data. For example, the loading module may store the object data locally so that the object data is readily available to the system controller 710. Additionally or alternatively, the loading module may transmit the object data (or portions thereof) to the production system 770. For example, as previously described, the loading module may transmit the object data to the production system 770 so that the production system 770 may store the object data and / or perform one or more tasks based at least in part on the object data.

[0117] Assignment Module

[0118] Now turn to Fig.10 , provides additional details about an allocation module for allocating objects from the storage system 100 according to various embodiments. Thus, when the computing hardware 800 executes the allocation module, Fig.10 The illustrated flow diagram may correspond to operations performed, for example, by computing hardware 800 , such as system controller 710 in control system architecture 700 as described herein.

[0119] The allocation controller 750 or the storage system 100 may receive identification data from one of a variety of sources for an object currently stored in the storage system 100 and requested to be allocated from the storage system 100. For example, the allocation controller 750 may receive identification data for the object via an individual using a mechanism associated with the storage system 100 to input the identification data, such as a keyboard, a barcode scanner, an optical scanner, etc. In another example, the allocation controller 750 may receive identification data for the object via the production system 770, a mobile application, or via a mobile robotic platform 530 that transmits the identification data to the allocation controller 750 over the network 720.

[0120] Thus, the dispensing controller 750 sends identification data for the object to the system controller 710, and the system controller 710 makes the identification data available to the dispensing module. Thus, process 1000 involves the dispensing module receiving identification data for the object in operation 1010.

[0121] In operation 1020, the assignment module identifies where the item is stored in the storage system 100. In some embodiments, the storage system 100 may store item data for various items locally. For example, the storage system 100 may store the object data in a non-volatile memory that is part of the storage system 100, or in some type of storage medium that may be found in the environment in which the storage system 100 operates. Thus, the assignment module may query the locally stored object data for the object based at least in part on the identification data for the object.

[0122] In other embodiments, the storage system 100 can store object data for various objects remotely. For example, the storage system 100 can store object data via a production system 770 that is remote from the environment in which the storage system 100 operates. Here, the allocation module can send a communication to the production system 770 that includes at least a portion of the identification data for the object and requests the object data (or a portion thereof) for the object. The production system 770 then returns the object data to the allocation module in a second communication.

[0123] As previously described, the object data for the object may include location data, and the location data may include a shelf identifier of a particular shelf 130 storing the object. In addition, the location data may include one or more cell identifiers and / or border identifiers corresponding to one or more cells of the particular shelf 130. Therefore, in operation 1030, the allocation module sends an instruction (e.g., one or more signals) to the shelf controller 730 of the particular shelf 130, requesting the shelf controller 730 to open a series of doors corresponding to the one or more cells so that the item can be allocated. Therefore, the shelf controller 730 receives the instruction and therefore sends one or more signals to the release mechanism associated with the door 120 in the series of doors to open, thereby allocating the item from the storage system 100.

[0124] Embodiment 1: A storage system comprises: a frame including a shelf; a plurality of doors attached to the frame along a distribution side, wherein each of the plurality of doors can be independently opened and closed by operation of a corresponding release mechanism; a plurality of dividers adjustable to different positions along the length of the shelf to define storage compartments whose sizes vary along the length of the shelf so as to store objects of different sizes; and a controller for each storage compartment, the controller being configured to cause the release mechanisms corresponding to a series of the plurality of doors corresponding to the size of the storage compartment to operate in unison to release objects stored in the storage compartment.

[0125] Embodiment 2: A storage system according to embodiment 1, wherein the shelf is tilted downward in the direction of gravity relative to the surface supporting the frame.

[0126] Embodiment 3: The storage system of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the frame is open along an object entry side to allow the objects to be loaded into the storage compartments, the object entry side being opposite the dispensing side.

[0127] Embodiment 4: The storage system according to embodiment 3 further comprises a plurality of locking doors of different sizes accessible from the outside on the object entrance side.

[0128] Embodiment 5: A storage system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein a corresponding release mechanism for one of the plurality of doors is positioned above the door, and the corresponding release mechanism includes a solenoid configured to move in the direction of an upper finger of the door to allow the door to swing open.

[0129] Embodiment 6: The storage system of Embodiment 5, wherein the solenoid actuates a mechanism attached to the solenoid to force the door open.

[0130] Embodiment 7: A storage system according to any one of embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the storage system is connected to a repositioning system, the repositioning system includes an actuated track, the storage system is located on the actuated track and can be driven to open space for a series of doors among the plurality of doors above a first conveyor mechanism to distribute the objects onto the first conveyor mechanism.

[0131] Embodiment 8: The storage system of Embodiment 7, wherein the first conveyor mechanism is configured to transport the object to a second conveyor mechanism, and the second conveyor mechanism is configured to transport the object to a mobile robotic platform.

[0132] Embodiment 9: A storage system according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the shelf is divided into a plurality of cells aligned with the plurality of doors, and each of the plurality of cells is associated with a sensor so that when the object is placed in the storage compartment, the controller receives at least one identifier of the at least one cell corresponding to the position on the shelf where the object has been placed from the plurality of cells based at least in part on a signal received from the sensor for at least one cell.

[0133] Embodiment 10: The storage system of Embodiment 9, wherein the controller generates location information identifying the shelf and the at least one cell corresponding to a location where the object has been placed on the shelf.

[0134] Embodiment 11: A storage system according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the shelf is divided into a plurality of cells aligned with the plurality of doors, and a border of each of the plurality of cells is associated with a sensor, so that when each of two of the plurality of dividers is positioned along the shelf at the border of one of the plurality of cells to define the storage compartment, the controller receives an identifier of the border based at least in part on a signal received from the sensor corresponding to the border.

[0135] Embodiment 12: The storage system of Embodiment 11, wherein the controller generates position data identifying the border of the cell where each of the two dividers are positioned along the shelf to define the storage compartment.

[0136] Embodiment 13: A storage system comprises: a frame including a shelf; a plurality of doors attached to the frame along a distribution side, wherein each of the plurality of doors can be independently opened and closed by operation of a corresponding release mechanism; a plurality of push-down spring dividers arranged along the shelf, wherein the plurality of push-down spring dividers are configured so that when an object is stored on the shelf, for any push-down spring divider among the plurality of push-down spring dividers on top of which the object is placed, the weight of the object compresses the push-down spring divider downward to lie substantially flat on the shelf, and the push-down spring dividers among the plurality of push-down spring dividers that are adjacent to the object and located between the push-down spring dividers are used to define a storage compartment in which the object is stored; and a controller for each storage compartment, the controller being configured to cause the release mechanisms corresponding to a series of doors among the plurality of doors corresponding to the size of the storage compartment to operate in unison to release the object stored in the storage compartment.

[0137] Embodiment 14: A storage system according to Embodiment 13, wherein each of the plurality of push-down spring dividers includes a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is attached to the shelf, and the second end is free and includes a mechanism that allows the push-down spring divider to roll toward the dispensing side and lie substantially flat on the shelf.

[0138] Embodiment 15: The storage system of Embodiment 13, wherein each of the plurality of push-down spring dividers is configured such that each of the plurality of push-down spring dividers is locked into place by a mechanism when pushed down to lie substantially flat on the shelf.

[0139] Embodiment 16: A method comprises: receiving, by a system controller, identification data for an object to be stored in a storage system; sending, by the system controller, a communication having at least a portion of the identification data to a production system; receiving, by the system controller, a communication confirming that the object is to be stored in the storage system; providing, by the system controller and at least partially based on the communication, to an individual who is about to load the object into the storage system an indication that the object has been confirmed for storage in the storage system; receiving, by the system controller and from a shelf controller, position data comprising a shelf identifier and at least one of a cell identifier or a border identifier, the shelf identifier being used for the storage system, a shelf on which the object has been placed, the cell identifier or border identifier identifying a position on the shelf on which the object has been placed, wherein the shelf controller is associated with the shelf and the shelf controller receives at least one signal from at least one sensor, the at least one signal identifying at least one of the cell identifier or border identifier corresponding to at least one cell associated with the position on the shelf on which the object has been placed; merging the identification data and the position data to generate object data by the system controller; and storing the object data by the system controller so that the object data is available to the system controller for use when allocating the object from the storage system.

[0140] Embodiment 17: A method according to Embodiment 16, wherein providing an indication to an individual who is about to load the object into the storage system that the object has been confirmed for storage in the storage system includes at least one of the following: causing a mechanism used by the individual when providing the identification data to display a specific signal to indicate that the item has been confirmed for storage in the storage system; or facilitating opening a door at the rear of the storage system to the position to allow the individual to load the object into the storage system at the position.

[0141] Embodiment 18: The method of Embodiment 17, wherein the identification data includes a size of the object, and the method further includes identifying, by the system controller and at least in part based on the size, that the location on the shelf is an appropriate size for storing the object.

[0142] Embodiment 19: The method according to any one of Embodiments 16 to 18 further includes: receiving at least a portion of the identification data for the object through the system controller and from the allocation controller, wherein the allocation controller receives the portion of the identification data due to a request to allocate the object from the storage system; querying object data for the object from a storage medium through the system controller and at least partially based on the portion of the identification data; identifying a shelf on which the object has been placed through the system controller and at least partially based on the object data; and in response to identifying the shelf, sending an instruction to the shelf controller through the system controller, the instruction requesting the shelf controller to open a series of doors corresponding to the at least one cell associated with the position on the shelf on which the object has been placed, wherein the shelf controller receives the instruction and thereby sends at least one signal to a release mechanism associated with the series of doors to open, thereby allowing the object to be allocated.

[0143] Embodiment 20: A method according to Embodiment 19, wherein the distribution controller receives a portion of the identification data for the object by at least one of a second person, a production system, a mobile application, or a mobile robotic platform that inputs the identification data using a mechanism associated with the storage system.

[0144] In some embodiments, the disclosure may include language such as “at least one [element A] or [element B]”. The language may refer to one or more elements. For example, “at least one of A or B” may refer to “A”, “B”, or “A and B”. In other words, “at least one of A or B” may refer to “at least one of A and at least one of B”, “at least A or B”, or “A and B”. In some embodiments, the disclosure may include language such as “[element A], [element B], and / or [element C]”. The language may refer to any one element or any combination thereof. In other words, “A, B, and / or C” may refer to “A”, “B”, “C”, “A and B”, “A and C”, “B and C”, or “A, B, and C”.

[0145] The subject matter of the present disclosure has been described in specific embodiments, which are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. Alternative embodiments that do not depart from the scope of the subject matter will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Different combinations of elements, as well as the use of elements not shown, are also possible and contemplated.

Claims

1. A storage system, comprising: a frame including shelves; a plurality of doors attached to the frame along a dispensing side, wherein each door of the plurality of doors is independently openable and closable by operation of a corresponding release mechanism; a plurality of dividers adjustable to different positions along the length of the shelf to define storage compartments of varying sizes along the length of the shelf for storing objects of varying sizes; as well as A controller for each storage compartment is configured to cause release mechanisms corresponding to a series of doors among the plurality of doors corresponding to the size of the storage compartment to operate in unison to release objects stored in the storage compartment.

2. The storage system according to claim 1, wherein: The shelf is tilted downwardly in the direction of gravity relative to the surface supporting the frame.

3. The storage system according to claim 1, wherein: The frame is open along an object entry side opposite the dispensing side to allow the objects to be loaded into the storage compartment.

4. The storage system of claim 3, further comprising a plurality of externally accessible locking doors of different sizes on the object entrance side.

5. The storage system according to claim 1, wherein: A corresponding release mechanism for one of the plurality of doors is positioned above the door and includes a solenoid configured to move in a direction to kick open an upper finger of the door to allow the door to swing open.

6. The storage system according to claim 5, wherein: The solenoid actuates a mechanism attached to the solenoid to force the door open.

7. The storage system according to claim 1, wherein: The storage system is coupled to a repositioning system including an actuated track on which the storage system sits and which is drivable to open space for a series of doors among the plurality of doors above a first conveyor mechanism to distribute the objects onto the first conveyor mechanism.

8. The storage system according to claim 7, wherein: The first conveyor mechanism is configured to transport the object to a second conveyor mechanism, and the second conveyor mechanism is configured to transport the object to a mobile robotic platform.

9. The storage system according to claim 1, wherein: The shelf is divided into a plurality of cells aligned with the plurality of doors, and each of the plurality of cells is associated with a sensor such that when the object is placed in the storage compartment, the controller receives at least one identifier of the at least one cell from the plurality of cells corresponding to a location on the shelf where the object has been placed based at least in part on a signal received from the sensor for at least one cell.

10. The storage system according to claim 9, wherein: The controller generates location information identifying the shelf and the at least one cell corresponding to a location where the object has been placed on the shelf.

11. The storage system according to claim 1, wherein: The shelf is divided into a plurality of cells aligned with the plurality of doors, and a border of each of the plurality of cells is associated with a sensor such that when each of two of the plurality of dividers is positioned along the shelf at a border of one of the plurality of cells to define the storage compartment, the controller receives an identifier of the border based at least in part on a signal received from the sensor corresponding to the border.

12. The storage system according to claim 1, wherein: The controller generates position data identifying the border of the cell where each of the two dividers are located along the shelf to define the storage compartment.

13. A storage system comprising: a frame including shelves; a plurality of doors attached to the frame along a dispensing side, wherein each door of the plurality of doors is independently openable and closable by operation of a corresponding release mechanism; a plurality of push-down spring dividers arranged along the shelf, wherein the plurality of push-down spring dividers are configured such that when an object is stored on the shelf, for any of the plurality of push-down spring dividers on top of which the object is placed, the weight of the object compresses the push-down spring divider downward to lie substantially flat on the shelf, and the push-down spring dividers of the plurality of push-down spring dividers immediately adjacent to where the object is located between the push-down spring dividers serve to define a storage compartment in which the object is stored; as well as A controller for the storage compartment is configured to cause release mechanisms corresponding to a series of doors among the plurality of doors corresponding to a size of the storage compartment to operate in unison to release the objects stored in the storage compartment.

14. The storage system according to claim 13, wherein: Each of the plurality of push-down spring dividers includes a first end attached to the shelf and a second end that is free and includes a mechanism that allows the push-down spring divider to roll toward the dispensing side and lie substantially flat on the shelf.

15. The storage system according to claim 13, wherein: Each of the plurality of push-down spring dividers is configured such that each of the plurality of push-down spring dividers is locked into place by a mechanism when pushed down to lie substantially flat on the shelf.

16. A method comprising: receiving, by the system controller, identification data for an object to be stored in the storage system; sending, by the system controller, a communication having at least a portion of the identification data to a production system; receiving, by the system controller, a communication confirming that the object is to be stored in the storage system; providing, by the system controller and based at least in part on the communication, to an individual who is about to load the object into the storage system an indication that the object has been identified for storage in the storage system; receiving, by the system controller and from a shelf controller, position data including a shelf identifier and at least one of a cell identifier or a bounding box identifier for a shelf of the storage system on which the object has been placed, the cell identifier or the bounding box identifier identifying a location on the shelf on which the object has been placed, wherein the shelf controller is associated with the shelf and the shelf controller receives at least one signal from at least one sensor identifying at least one of the cell identifier or the bounding box identifier corresponding to at least one cell associated with the location on the shelf on which the object has been placed; combining, by the system controller, the identification data and the position data to generate object data; as well as Storing the object data by the system controller makes the object data available to the system controller for use in dispensing the object from the storage system.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein: Providing an indication to an individual who is about to load the object into the storage system that the object has been identified for storage in the storage system includes at least one of: causing a mechanism used by the individual in providing the identification data to display a specific signal to indicate that the item has been identified for storage in the storage system; or facilitating opening of a door at the rear of the storage system to the position to allow the individual to load the object into the storage system at the position.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein: The identification data includes a dimension of the object, and the method further includes identifying, by the system controller and based at least in part on the dimension, that the location on the shelf is an appropriate size for storing the object.

19. The method according to claim 16, further comprising: receiving, by the system controller and from a dispense controller, at least a portion of the identification data for the object, wherein the dispense controller receives the portion of the identification data as a result of a request that the object be dispensed from the storage system; querying, by the system controller and based at least in part on a portion of the identification data, from a storage medium object data for the object; identifying, by the system controller and based at least in part on the object data, a shelf on which the object has been placed; as well as In response to identifying the shelf, an instruction is sent by the system controller to the shelf controller, the instruction requesting the shelf controller to open a series of doors corresponding to at least one cell associated with the location on the shelf where the object has been placed, wherein the shelf controller receives the instruction and accordingly sends at least one signal to a release mechanism associated with the series of doors to open, thereby allowing the object to be dispensed.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein: The distribution controller receives a portion of the identification data for the object by at least one of a second person, a production system, a mobile application, or a mobile robotic platform inputting identification data using a mechanism associated with the storage system.

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