A material handling device having a scan location for an item

Abstract

A method and apparatus for transporting items to a plurality of storage locations are provided. Items are supplied to the apparatus at an input location having a scan location. The scan location detects one or more characteristics of each item. Next, the item is loaded onto a transport mechanism, and the transport mechanism transports the item to a storage location. Upon arriving at the appropriate storage location, the transport mechanism discharges the item into the storage location and returns to receive another item to be transported.

Description

Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 349,587, filed on June 6, 2022. The entire disclosure of the above - mentioned application is incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to a material handling system, and more particularly, to a material handling system that receives and sorts items using a plurality of motor vehicles. The material handling system may include a scanning station that scans items to identify characteristics for sorting the items.

Background Art

[0003] Sorting and retrieving items to fulfill customer orders can be labor - intensive and time - consuming. Many large - scale organizations have extensive storage areas for storing a large number of items. Manually storing and retrieving items from hundreds or thousands of storage locations requires a significant amount of labor. Automated picking has been developed in many fields to reduce labor costs and improve customer service by shortening the time to fulfill customer orders. In many automated material handling systems, the processing capacity of the material handling system is determined, among other things, by the speed at which each object is accurately identified and supplied to the system. One potential problem that can occur is the identification of parts at high supply speeds. Therefore, it is desirable to provide a system that can accurately and rapidly read sorted items while identifying adjacent parts in the work flow.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

[0005] The summary of the invention is provided for the purpose of briefly introducing the concept of the invention, which will be described in more detail in the following detailed description of the invention. This summary is not intended to identify the main or essential features of the claimed invention, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed invention. MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEMS

[0006] The present invention provides a number of aspects that can form part of a material handling system. The system may include one or more of a number of aspects of the present invention, as further described below.

[0007] According to one aspect, the present invention may provide an apparatus for sorting a plurality of items. The apparatus includes a plurality of sorting destinations and a plurality of transport vehicles for transporting the items to the sorting destinations. A control device provides a control signal for controlling the operation of the transport vehicle.

[0008] According to another aspect, the present invention may include a track system for guiding a transport vehicle to a sorting destination.

[0009] According to another aspect, the present invention may include a scanner for scanning items to detect characteristics of each item, where the detected characteristics are item-by-item characteristics used by a control device to identify a sorting destination for sorting the items.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for sorting a plurality of items is provided. This method may include the steps of loading items to be transported to an output container onto a transport vehicle and driving the transport vehicle to the output container. This method may further include the steps of discharging items from the transport vehicle to the output container and monitoring the positions of the items on the transport vehicle.

[0011] In another aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for sorting a plurality of items. This apparatus includes a plurality of transport vehicles guided by a track for transporting items to one or more destinations. This apparatus may include a loading station for loading items onto the transport vehicles. And before loading the item onto the transport vehicle, the item may be analyzed to detect a first characteristic. A recirculation system for recirculating items from a location along the track to an input station may also be provided.

[0012] According to another aspect, a method for transporting items to one or more destinations is provided. This method may include the step of transporting an item through a first conductive wall. And this first conductive wall separates a first conveyor section from a second conveyor section. When the item is transported through the first conductive wall, the item may be transported under the first conductive wall or through an opening in the first conductive wall. While a first item is supported on a non-conductive support, an RFID scanner scans the RFID tag of the first item on the second conveyor section. The destination of the first item may be determined based on the step of scanning the RFID tag.

[0013] Optionally, this method includes the step of transporting the first item through a second conductive wall that separates the second conveyor section from a third conveyor section. And when the item is conveyed through the second conductive wall, the item may be conveyed under the second conductive wall or through an opening in the second conductive wall.

[0014] This method may include the step of loading an item from a third conveyor section onto a transport mechanism. And this transport mechanism may be movable to transport the item to a predetermined destination. After the transport mechanism has moved to a predetermined destination, the item may be discharged to the destination.

[0015] According to another aspect, the system includes a material handling device including an input station having a conveyor and a scan station. The conveyor may include a first section for receiving an item, a second section for receiving the item from the first section, and a third section for receiving the item from the second section. The second section may include a non-conductive element for supporting an item on the second section.

[0016] The scan station may be configured to scan an item on the second section of the conveyor. Optionally, the scan station may include one or more conductive walls along the second section and an RFID scanner. For example, the scan station may include a first conductive wall extending across the conveyor and separating the first section from the second section. Similarly, the scan station may include a second conductive wall extending across the conveyor and separating the second section from the third section.

[0017] The system may also include a transport mechanism that receives one of the items from the third section of the conveyor and transports the item to a storage location. Optionally, the system may also include a central control device capable of receiving information regarding the identification of an item scanned at the scan station from the scan station. Based on the scanned information, the central control device may be configured to determine the storage location of the item. Optionally, the central control device provides a control signal to the transport mechanism to transport the item to the determined storage location.

[0018] In yet another embodiment, the system may include a conveyor and a transport mechanism for transporting items from this conveyor to the storage location. When the item is being transported towards the transport mechanism, an RFID scanner may scan the RFID tag of the item. The system may include a housing disposed along the conveyor. Optionally, the housing includes a first wall that extends across the width of the conveyor and is configured such that an item on this conveyor can pass from the input location to the scan area. The first wall is preferably formed of a conductive material. The housing may include a second wall that extends across the width of the conveyor and is spaced apart from the first wall to form a scan area between the second wall and the first wall. Optionally, the second wall is configured such that an item on the conveyor can pass from the scan area to the loading location. The second wall is preferably formed of a conductive material.

[0019] The conveyor of the system may be configured such that in the scan area, the item is supported on a movable surface for the item to move within this scan area. The system may include a fixed support surface that supports the movable surface. These movable surface and fixed support surface are preferably formed of a non-conductive material.

[0020] In one embodiment, the system may include a conveyor having an input area, where an item is supported on a movable surface within the input area and a fixed support surface is configured to support the movable surface. The fixed support surface may be formed of any of a variety of materials, but is preferably formed of a conductive material such as metal.

[0021] Similarly, the system may include a conveyor having an output area, where an item is supported on a movable surface within the output area and a fixed support surface is configured to support the movable surface. The fixed support surface may be formed of any of a variety of materials, but is preferably formed of a conductive material such as metal.

[0022] The system may include a central control device configured to operate an RFID scanner to scan an item when the item is between a first conductive wall and a second conductive wall and the item is on a non-conductive fixed support.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] The detailed description of the present invention is best understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used throughout to refer to the same or similar components.

[0024]

Figure 1

[0025]

Figure 2

[0026]

Figure 3

[0027]

Figure 4

[0028]

Figure 5

[0029]

Figure 6

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0030] A part of the following detailed description of the invention is described from the viewpoint of operations on binary digital signals stored in the memory of a specific device or a dedicated computer or platform. In this particular specification, the term such as a specific device includes a general-purpose computer programmed to execute a specific function according to instructions from program software. Here, an operation or a process includes a physical operation of a physical quantity. Normally, such a physical quantity takes the form of an electrical signal or a magnetic signal that can be operated on by storage, transfer, combination, comparison, or other methods, but it is not necessarily so. Primarily, for general usage reasons, such signals may be referred to as bits, data, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, numerical values, etc. However, all of these terms or similar terms are associated with appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels. Unless otherwise specified, as is apparent from the following description, throughout this specification, descriptions using terms such as "processing", "calculating", "determining", etc. refer to the operations or processes of a specific device such as a dedicated computer or a similar dedicated electronic computer. Accordingly, in this specification, a dedicated computer or a similar dedicated electronic computer can operate or transform signals that are typically represented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities within the memory, register, or other information storage device, transmission device, or display device of the dedicated computer or similar dedicated electronic computer.

[0031] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail, and examples thereof are shown in the accompanying drawings. Whenever possible, throughout the drawings, when the same reference numerals are used, they refer to the same or similar components.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, a system for sorting items, that is, a device for sorting items, is generally designated by 10. The device 10 for sorting this item includes a plurality of transport vehicles 200 that move along a sorting station consisting of an orbital system 100 and transport the items to a plurality of destinations or sorting locations such as the output container 45. The items are loaded onto the transport vehicle 200 at the loading station 165, and each transport vehicle 200 receives the items to be transported to one of the output containers 45. The guiding station 50 continuously supplies the items to the loading station 165. The guiding station 50 may include one or more scanning elements for detecting one or more characteristics of the items.

[0033] From the loading station 165, the transport vehicle 200 moves along the track 110 to the destination. The track 110 may include a horizontal upper rail 135 and a horizontal lower rail 140 that functions as a return section. A number of parallel vertical track sections 130 may extend between the upper rail 135 and the lower return section 140. The output container 45 may be arranged in a column between a plurality of vertical track sections 130. Alternatively, the output containers 45 may be arranged in a plurality of columns between a plurality of vertical track sections 130.

[0034] The transport vehicle 200 is a semi-automatic vehicle that may have an on-vehicle power source and an on-vehicle motor for driving the transport vehicle 200 along the track 110. The transport vehicle 200 may have a loading / unloading mechanism such as a conveyor 212 for loading parts onto the transport vehicle 200 and discharging parts from the transport vehicle 200.

[0035] Since the system 10 includes a number of transport vehicles 200, the positions of the transport vehicles 200 are controlled so that the different transport vehicles 200 do not collide with each other. In one embodiment, the system 10 uses a central control device 350 that tracks the position of each transport vehicle 200 and provides a control signal to each transport vehicle 200 to control the progress of the transport vehicle 200 along the track 110. And this central control device 350 may also control the operation of various elements along the track 110, such as a gate 150 that changes the direction of the transport vehicle 200 from horizontal movement to vertical movement, or vice versa. [Induction station]

[0036] At the induction station 50, items are introduced into the system 10 by sequentially loading the items onto the transport vehicle 200. In one embodiment, at the induction station 50, each item is scanned and one or more characteristics of the item are detected. These characteristics are used for item identification. Once the item is identified, various characteristics of the item may be retrieved from a central database, and the item may then be processed based on the known characteristics of the item. For example, the induction station 50 may include a scanning station 70 that scans a product code such as a barcode. Once the product code is determined, the system 10 retrieves information about the product from a central database. This information is used to control further processing of the item, as will be further described below.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 to 6, the induction station 50 may include a scanning station 70 that automatically detects the characteristics of the item. In particular, the induction station 50 may include an input conveyor 52 that receives the item and transports the item to a scanning station 70 capable of detecting one or more physical characteristics of the item. From the scanning station 70, a loading conveyor 58 transports the item to a loading station 165, where the item is either loaded onto one of the transport vehicles 200 or passed to a waste container 325.

[0038] The input conveyor 52 may be any of various conveyor devices designed to transport the item. Specifically, the input conveyor 52 may be designed to receive the item placed on the conveyor. For example, the input conveyor 52 may be a horizontal conveyor belt or a horizontal roller bed, and the horizontal roller bed is formed by a plurality of driven rollers that are substantially horizontal, thereby advancing the item along the conveyor from the rollers.

[0039] The input conveyor 52 may be configured such that an operator can select the item from a supply location of the item disposed adjacent to the input conveyor 52. For example, a separate supply conveyor may stably transport the item to the induction station 50. The operator may continuously select the item from the supply conveyor and place the item on the input conveyor 52. Alternatively, a large container for containing the item, such as a container or other container, may be disposed adjacent to the input conveyor 52. The operator may select the item one by one from the supply container and place each item on the input conveyor 52. Furthermore, the input conveyor 52 may cooperate with a supply assembly that continuously supplies the item to the input conveyor 52. For example, the supply conveyor may continuously convey items towards the input conveyor 52. The input conveyor 52 may include a sensor that senses when an item has been conveyed from this input conveyor 52. In response, the system 10 may control the operations of both the supply conveyor and the input conveyor 52 to forward items from the supply conveyor to the input conveyor 52. In this way, items may be supplied to the input conveyor 52 manually by an operator or automatically by another supply mechanism capable of supplying items to the input conveyor 52.

[0040] The sorting station 50 may include a scanning station 70 that detects one or more characteristics of each item before the item is loaded onto the transport vehicle 200 for transportation or sorting.

[0041] Various elements may be detected and a method for processing the item may be determined. For example, an item typically needs to be identified so that the system 10 can determine the location or container where this item is to be transported. This is typically done by determining a unique product code for each item. The system 10 may include a scanning element that scans product identification markings on the product. By way of example, an item may be provided with one or more of various marks including, but not limited to, machine-readable optical labels such as barcodes (e.g., QR codes or UPC codes), printed alphanumerics, unique graphic identifiers, etc. The scanning station 70 may include a scanner or reader that reads such marks. For example, a barcode reader, an optical reader, or an RFID reader may be provided to scan the item and read the identification marking.

[0042] When the product identification marking is determined (manually or automatically), the system 10 acquires information regarding the product and controls the subsequent processing of the item based on the information stored in the central database.

[0043] From the foregoing, it can be understood that various input mechanisms may be utilized to determine the product identification marking on an item. In this embodiment, the scanning system includes one or more optical readers capable of scanning an item to acquire optical image data of the item. And the system processes the optical image data to detect the presence of the product identification marking. When the product identification marking is detected, the system analyzes the mark to determine the product identification number or code.

[0044] For example, as shown in the embodiments of FIGS. 1, 2, and 4, the scanning station 70 may include a plurality of scanning elements 85 arranged along the conveyor 70. When the item is being conveyed toward the loading station 165, a plurality of imaging elements 85 are arranged spaced apart around the conveyor so that the scanning elements 85 can scan the entire item. Specifically, the scanning station 70 includes one or more cameras 85 oriented in a direction along the horizontal axis to scan the front and back of the item. In particular, this scanning station 70 may include a plurality of imaging elements 85 arranged along the front end portion of the conveyor and a plurality of imaging elements 85 arranged along the rear end portion of the conveyor. Furthermore, the scanning station 70 may include one or more cameras 85 oriented along the vertical axis to scan the upper portion of the item as the item is being conveyed along the conveyor. Furthermore, additional imaging elements may be provided to scan the front end face and the rear end face of the item as the conveyor conveys the item. Furthermore, the conveyor may include a gap between a plurality of adjacent conveyors. The item may be conveyed over the gap, and a camera below the conveyor may scan the item through the gap so that the bottom surface of the item can be scanned at the scan location 70. In this way, the scan location 70 may include an array of sensors, reading elements, scanning elements, or detectors arranged around the movement path, so that while the item is being conveyed along the path, the scan location 70 can automatically scan the item to seek identification marks.

[0045] As described above, the scan location 70 may analyze each item to find product identification markings and identify the item based on the markings. When the product identifier is determined, the system may determine the destination of the item, and the item may be electronically tagged so as to be eligible for sorting. Similarly, parameters regarding the handling method of the item by the transport vehicle 200 may also be determined based on the information of the product code stored in the database. Conversely, if the product identifier of the item is not determined, the item may be electronically tagged so as not to be eligible for sorting.

[0046] In addition to the scan camera 85, the scan location 70 may include a scanning element that does not require a line of sight to read tags or identification elements. For example, the scan location 70 may include a scanning element 80 that can scan the item to identify the identification features of the item. An example of the scanning element 80 that can scan the item without requiring a line of sight is a radio frequency identification scanner or an RFID scanner. The scan location 70 may include a single RFID scanner 80 that scans the item when the item passes through the scan location 70. The system uses multiple scanning cameras 85 to simultaneously scan items, and can compare the scan information from the scanning cameras 85 and the RFID reader to confirm the identification features of the items (such as product code numbers). Alternatively, the scanning cameras 85 can be used to scan items without RFID tags, and the RFID scanner 80 can be used to identify items with RFID tags attached. Furthermore, both the RFID scanner 80 and the scanning cameras 85 are shown at the scanning location 70. However, in applications where all items to be processed have RFID tags, the scanning cameras 85 may be omitted.

[0047] Referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, in this embodiment, the scanning location 70 includes a plurality of RFID readers. Specifically, the scanning location 70 includes an overhead RFID reader 80 disposed vertically above the scanning area 75, and is directed downward toward the scanning area F1 toward the items within the scanning area 75. Optionally, the system may also include a front RFID reader 81 disposed adjacent to the front end of the scanning area 75, and may be directed toward the scanning area F2 across the scanning area 75 from the front of the scanning location 70. Optionally, the system may also include a rear RFID reader 82 disposed adjacent to the rear end of the scanning area 75, and may be directed toward the scanning area F3 across the scanning area 75 from the back of the scanning location 70.

[0048] The RFID reader 80 can be any of various readers including an antenna that transmits signals toward the scanning area 75 and receives signals returned from RFID tags within the scanning area 75. In this embodiment, the RFID readers 80, 81, 82 all have the same configuration. And this RFID reader is sold under the product number RFU62x by SICK Product and Competence Center Americas, LLC in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

[0049] The induction station 50 includes a plurality of conveyors configured to convey an item from an input area to a loading area for loading the item onto the carrier vehicle 200. In this embodiment, the induction station 50 includes an input conveyor 52 disposed at the left end of the induction station 50 (as viewed from FIGS. 3, 4, and 6). The input conveyor 52 is configured to receive and support an item placed thereon and convey the item toward the scan area 75. The input conveyor 52 may be configured in any of a variety of configurations. In this embodiment, the input conveyor 52 is configured as an endless conveyor wound around a plurality of rollers. A motor 62 drives the input conveyor 52 in response to a signal from the central controller 350. And the input conveyor 52 is disposed adjacent to a scan inlet conveyor 54 that receives an item from the input conveyor 52 and conveys the item from the input area to the scan area 75. In particular, the discharge end of the input conveyor 52 may be disposed outside the scan station 70, and the input conveyor 52 conveys the item toward the entrance of the scan station 70 but may not convey it into the scan station 70.

[0050] The scan inlet conveyor 54 may extend from the input conveyor 52 to the loading station 165 so that the scan inlet conveyor 54 conveys the item over the entire length from the input conveyor 52 to the scan station 70. However, in this embodiment, the system 10 may include a plurality of conveyors that convey an item from the input conveyor 52 to the loading station 165. For example, system 10 may include a scan exit conveyor 56 that receives items from the scan entrance conveyor 54 and conveys the items toward the loading location 165. A gap 60 may be formed between the scan entrance conveyor 54 and the scan exit conveyor 56. The gap 60 is a space where a camera below the conveyor can read the bottom surface of the item. Furthermore, this gap 60 provides an opening, and due to this opening, the scan regions F1, F2, and F3 can capture the items within the scan region 75 without interfering with the elements supporting the conveyed items.

[0051] System 10 may also include a loading conveyor 58 that receives items from the scan exit conveyor 56. As shown in FIG. 4, the loading conveyor 58 operates to load items onto the transport vehicle 200 disposed at the loading location 165.

[0052] The scan entrance conveyor 54, the scan exit conveyor 56, and the loading conveyor 58 may be configured in various ways. In this embodiment, these conveyors are each composed of endless conveyor belts wound around a plurality of rollers. Furthermore, each of the scan entrance conveyor 54, the scan exit conveyor 56, and the loading conveyor 58 may be independently driven. However, in this embodiment, a motor 64 drives a single belt that interconnects all three of the scan entrance conveyor 54, the scan exit conveyor 56, and the loading conveyor 58.

[0053] The scanning station 70 may optionally include a housing 72 that functions as a measuring gauge or limiting device that restricts the size of the items to be processed. For example, as described above, the scanning station may have a housing 72 that surrounds the scan region 75. Specifically, the housing 72 may include one or more walls that form an enclosure. For example, the housing 72 may include a front wall that extends vertically along the front end of the scanning location and a rear wall that extends vertically along the rear end of the scanning location. The rear wall may separate the scanning area 75 from the return conveyor 400, which will be described below. An upper wall may extend between the upper end of the front wall and the upper end of the rear wall of the housing 72. Furthermore, on the left side of the housing 72, there may be a wall connecting the front wall and the rear wall, as shown in FIG. 1. The left wall may have an opening sized to receive the maximum height of the item to be processed by the machine. In this way, the entrance opening may have a height that restricts or prevents items of a height exceeding the height threshold from entering the housing, so that items that are physically too large to be processed are not supplied to the system 10 through the induction station 50.

[0054] Furthermore, the housing 72 may be configured to function as a shielding element that prevents items outside the housing 72 from being scanned by the RFID readers 80, 81, 82. Specifically, the walls of the housing 72 may be formed of a conductive material. In this embodiment, the conductive material is a material having a conductance of 1 x 104 Siemens / meter or more. Conversely, the non-conductive material is a material having a conductance of less than 1 x 104 Siemens / meter. In this way, the walls shield the RFID readers 80, 81, 82 and limit these RFID readers 80, 81, 82 from reading the RFID tags of items on the input conveyor 52, the return conveyor 400, or the carrier vehicle 200 operating in the sorting area. Furthermore, the housing 72 may include a right wall similar to the left wall and may have a discharge opening similar to the entrance opening of the left wall. The discharge opening may be sized to discharge items from the discharge conveyor to the transport vehicle 200 within the loading area. Since the right wall is also conductive like the left wall, the right wall may limit the function of the RFID readers 80, 81, 82 from reading the RFID tags of the items loaded on the transport vehicle 200 of the loading column.

[0055] The housing 72 has been described as a shielding element surrounding the scan area 75, but the amount of shielding may vary depending on the application. For example, the housing 72 may include a rear wall for shielding the items on the return conveyor 400 from the RFID scanners 80, 81, 82, but may not include a front wall. Furthermore, it should be understood that in some applications, the shielding provided by the housing 72 may be unnecessary. Therefore, it should be understood that the amount and scope of the shielding material may be changed or removed depending on the application.

[0056] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 5, the input conveyor 52 includes a horizontally extending support element 53 that forms a horizontal support surface for supporting the length of the conveyor belt and the items conveyed by the input conveyor 52. Similarly, the scan inlet conveyor 54 includes a horizontally extending support element 55 that forms a horizontal support surface for supporting the length of the conveyor belt and the items conveyed by the scan inlet conveyor 54. Furthermore, the scan outlet conveyor 56 includes a horizontally extending support element 57 that forms a horizontal support surface for supporting the length of the conveyor belt and the items conveyed by the scan outlet conveyor 56. Furthermore, the loading conveyor 58 may include a horizontally extending support element 59 that forms a horizontal support surface for supporting the length of the conveyor belt and the items conveyed by the loading conveyor 58. The support elements 53, 55, 57, 59 can be any of a variety of elements configured to support the horizontal conveyor belt. For example, the support elements 53, 55, 57, 59 can be plates or similar flat guiding elements.

[0057] The conveyor within the induction station 50 can be configured to minimize the possibility that the RFID reader reads the RFID tag of an item outside the scan area 75, while improving the ability of the RFID reader to read the RFID tag of an item when the item is within the scan area 75. For example, the conveyor belts 52, 54, 56, 58 can be formed of a non-conductive material. Furthermore, the support elements of the conveyor within the scan area 75 can be formed of a non-conductive material. For example, the support elements 55 and 57 can be formed of a non-conductive material. An example of the material is ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylene or Delrin. The support elements outside the scan area 75 can be composed of any of a variety of materials including conductive and non-conductive materials. In this embodiment, however, the support elements 53, 59 of the input conveyor 52 and the loading conveyor 58 are formed of a conductive material such as metal. In this way, when an item is conveyed along the induction station 50, when the item is outside the scan area 75, the item is supported by the conductive elements, and when the item is being conveyed within the scan area 75, the item is supported by the non-conductive elements or is not supported by any elements.

[0058] The system 10 can include a plurality of sensors for controlling the flow of items through the induction station 50. For example, the system 10 can include a first sensor 65 upstream of the housing 72. Also, the system 10 can include a second sensor 66 adjacent to the entrance to the scan station. Furthermore, system 10 may include a third sensor 68 within or downstream of the scan area 75. The sensor provides a signal for controlling the flow of items through the induction station 50. The sensor may be any of a variety of sensors. For example, the sensor may be an I / R sensor having a transmitter on the front side of the conveyor and a receiver on the back side of the conveyor, and the sensor may provide a beam across the width of the conveyor. Alternatively, the sensor may be a reflective sensor that provides a detection plan across the width of the conveyor.

[0059] When the first sensor 65 detects the tip of an item, the first sensor 65 provides a signal to the central control device 350 indicating that the item is located adjacent to the entrance of the scan station 70. When there is an item within the scan station 70, the central control device 350 provides a signal to the first motor 62 to stop the input conveyor 52. In this way, the item is made to wait outside the scan station 70 so that only one item is present within the scan area 75 at a time. A second sensor 66 adjacent to the scan exit conveyor 56 detects the tip and the rear end of the item as the item passes the second sensor 66. In response to the signal from the second sensor 66, the central control device 350 controls the operation of the scan entrance conveyor 54, the scan exit conveyor 56, and the loading conveyor 58. Specifically, when the rear end of the item passes the second sensor 66, the second motor operates for a predetermined time to ensure that the item is loaded onto the transport vehicle 200 waiting at the loading station 165. When the item exits the scan area 75, the central control device 350 sends a signal to drive the first motor 62 to convey the item from the waiting position outside the scan station 70 towards the scan area 75.

[0060] As described above, the scan station 70 may be configured to analyze each item as it passes through the induction station 50 to detect various characteristics of the item. The system 10 may make a determination as to whether to qualify based on one or more characteristics detected or determined by the system 10. If an item is not qualified for sorting, the item may be sent to the discard area 325 and await further processing.

[0061] Typically, items sent to the discard area 325 are then manually processed. The operator receives each item, identifies the item, and transports the item to the appropriate destination. Manual processing of discarded items is time-consuming and labor-intensive, so it is desirable to reduce the number of items sent to the discard area. Many of the items sent to the discard area 325 may simply be items that were scanned incorrectly. An item cannot be sorted without sufficient identification information, but the necessary information may be readable during the next scan.

[0062] Since some non-qualified items may be desirable to be reprocessed, the information detected during the qualification determination may be used to identify various classifications of non-qualified items. The first type of non-qualified item is a discarded item that is sent to the discard area. In the following description, these items are referred to as discarded items. The second type of non-qualified item is an item that is not qualified for sorting but is qualified for reprocessing. In the following description, these items are referred to as reprocessing items.

[0063] Whether an item is tagged for discard, reprocessing, or sorting can be determined based on various characteristics. In this embodiment, the determination of tagging an item as discarded is based on the physical characteristics of the item. Specifically, if this item is not qualified due to physical characteristics (for example, when the linear dimensions such as height, width, and length exceed the threshold), the system 10 electronically tags the item as discarded, and the item is sent to the discard area 325 for manual processing. Similarly, when the weighing station 70 includes a scale, if the weight exceeds the weight threshold, the item is tagged as discarded. On the other hand, if an item is qualified for physical characteristics but is discarded because it cannot identify the product identification element, the element is electronically tagged for reprocessing so that the item can be reprocessed to make the product identification information readable. For example, due to the orientation of the product, the imaging element 85 may not be able to correctly read the barcode or other identification marks. However, when the weighing station 70 determines that the item meets the physical parameters for item processing, the system 10 may transport the item to an alternative output element, such as a container for receiving the item to be reprocessed. The item sorted or transported to the reprocessing container may be manually returned to the induction station 50 so that the operator can newly input the item. Alternatively, the system 10 may transport such an item through the system 10 to a re-induction assembly such as the return conveyor 400, and then return the item to the input conveyor 52 of the induction station 50.

[0064] As can be understood from the foregoing description, the induction station 50 can be configured among a wide range of options. Those options are not limited to the above-described configuration and may also include additional features.

[0065] Furthermore, in the foregoing description, the system 10 is described as having a single induction station 50. However, it may be desirable to incorporate a plurality of guide stations 50 disposed along the system 10. By using a plurality of guide stations 50, it is possible to improve the supply rate of items. Furthermore, the guide station 50 may be configured to process different types of items.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 1 through 3, the guide station 50 includes a conveyor that continuously transports items to the loading station 165. Also, the loading station 165 is a location along the track 110 and provides an entry point for loading items onto the transport vehicle 200. At the loading station 165, the transport vehicle 200 is disposed along the conveyor, and the items discharged from this conveyor are received by the transport vehicle 200 located at the loading station 165. After the item is loaded onto the transport vehicle 200, if the item is electronically tagged as being eligible for transport, the transport vehicle 200 leaves the loading station 165. Next, another transport vehicle 200 moves into the loading station 165 and receives the next item. If the item is not electronically tagged as being eligible for transport, the item is discharged from the transport vehicle 200 into the waste container 325.

[0067] The waste container 325 is disposed so as to face the conveyor of the guide station 50. Furthermore, the waste container 325 is disposed along the transport vehicle 200 waiting at the loading station 165. In this way, a clear path from the guide station 50 to the waste container 325 is provided without requiring the movement of the transport vehicle 200 along the track 110. [Re - induction Assembly]

[0068] The system 10 may include an optional re - induction conveyor for items that are eligible for transport but not eligible for sorting. Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, an item granted transport eligibility may be transported from the loading station 165 to either the re-induction conveyor or the sorting station 100. Specifically, the transport vehicle 200 carrying an item granted transport eligibility moves upward along the track 110 to the upper rail 135. If the item on the transport vehicle 200 has been re-evaluated and tagged, the transport vehicle 200 moves along the track 110 to the re-induction conveyor 400. The transport vehicle 200 discharges the item onto the re-induction conveyor 400, and the re-induction conveyor 400 can reprocess the item within the induction assembly to convey the item back to the induction conveyor and attempt to grant the item sorting eligibility.

[0069] The re-induction assembly 400 includes a path between the track 110 and the induction station 50, facilitating the return of re-evaluated items to the induction station 50. The re-induction assembly 400 may be composed of any of a number of conveying mechanisms. These mechanisms can be dynamic or static, electric or non-electric. [Sorting Station]

[0070] An item granted sorting eligibility by the induction station 50 is conveyed to the sorting station by the transport vehicle 200. Referring to FIGS. 1 to 2, the system 10 includes a sorting station 100 such as an array of output containers 45 for receiving items.

[0071] The track 110 includes a horizontal upper rail 135 and a horizontal lower rail 140. A plurality of vertical track sections 130 extend between the upper horizontal section and the lower horizontal section 140. During transport, the transport vehicle 200 ascends a set of vertical track sections 130 from the loading station 165 to the upper rail 135. Next, the transport vehicle 200 moves along the upper rail 135 until it reaches the appropriate output container 45 or the column with a destination. Next, until it reaches the appropriate output container 45 or the destination, the transport vehicle 200 moves downward along two front vertical struts and two parallel rear struts, and discharges the item into the output container 45 or the destination area. Next, the transport vehicle 200 continues to descend along the vertical track section 130 until it reaches the lower horizontal section 140. Next, the transport vehicle 200 returns to the loading station 165 along the lower rail 140.

[0072] The track 110 includes a front track 115 and a rear track 120. The front track 115 and the rear track 120 are cooperating parallel tracks that guide the transport vehicle 200 around the track 110. As shown in FIGS. 2 to 3, each transport vehicle 200 includes four wheels 220 (two front wheels and two rear wheels). The front wheels are riding on the front track 115, while the rear wheels are riding on the rear track 120. In the description of the track 110, it should be understood that the front track 115 and the rear track 120 are opposing tracks that are similarly configured to support the front and rear wheels of the transport vehicle 200. Therefore, the description of a part of the front track 115 or the rear track 120 also applies to the opposing front track 115 or rear track 120.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the loading column 160 is formed adjacent to the output end of the guide station 50. The loading column 160 is formed by a set of front vertical rails 130 and a corresponding set of rear vertical rails 130. The loading station 165 is arranged along the loading column 160. The loading station 165 is a position along the track 110, and is a position where the transport vehicle 200 is arranged along the discharge end of the loading conveyor 58 of the guide station 50. In this way, when the item is conveyed from the input station to the transport vehicle 200, this item may be loaded from the guide station 50 into the transport vehicle 200.

[0074] The details of the track 110 may be substantially the same as the track described in Patent Document 1. The entire disclosure of Patent Document 1 is incorporated herein by reference.

[0075] As described above and referring to FIG. 2, the track 110 includes a plurality of vertical track sections 130 that extend between a horizontal upper rail 135 and a lower rail 140. An intersection is formed at each point on the track 110 where one of the vertical track sections 130 intersects one of the horizontal sections. Each intersection includes a rotatable gate 150 having a smoothly curved inner race and a flat outer race having teeth corresponding to the teeth of the drive surface for the track 110. The gate 150 rotates between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the gate 150 is closed such that the straight outer race of the gate 150 follows the straight outer branch of the intersection. In the second position, the gate 150 is open such that the curved inner race of the gate 150 follows the curved branch of the intersection.

[0076] In the foregoing description, the sorting station 100 has been described as a plurality of output containers 45. However, it should be understood that the system 10 may include various types of destinations other than just the output containers 45. For example, in certain applications, it may be desirable to sort items into storage areas, such as areas on storage shelves. Or the destination may be an output device that transports the item to another location.

[0077] As described above, the system 10 can sort a variety of items to a plurality of destinations. The first type of destination is the output container 45, the second type is the shelf or other location where the items are stored, and the third type of destination is the output device that can be used to transport the items to another location. System 10 may include one or more of each of these types or other types of destinations. [Transport vehicle]

[0078] Each transport vehicle 200 is a semi-automatic vehicle having an on-vehicle drive system including an on-vehicle power source. Each transport vehicle 200 includes a mechanism for loading and unloading items for transportation. An embodiment of the transport vehicle 200 operable with the system 10 is illustrated and described in Patent Document 1, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0079] The transport vehicle 200 may incorporate any of a variety of mechanisms for loading items onto the transport vehicle 200 and discharging the items from the transport vehicle 200 into one of the output containers 45. Furthermore, the loading / unloading mechanism 210 may be specially tailored to a specific application. However, in this embodiment, the loading / unloading mechanism 210 is one or more conveyor belts extending along the upper surface of the transport vehicle 200. This conveyor belt is reversibly rotatable. By driving the conveyor belt in a first direction, the item is moved towards the rear end of the transport vehicle 200, and by driving the conveyor belt in a second direction, the item is moved towards the front end of the transport vehicle 200.

[0080] A conveyor motor attached to the lower part of the transport vehicle 200 drives the conveyor belt 212. Specifically, the conveyor belt 212 is stretched between a front roller at the front end of the transport vehicle 200 and a rear roller at the rear end of the transport vehicle 200. The conveyor motor is connected to the front roller and drives the front roller to operate the conveyor belt 212.

[0081] The transport vehicle 200 includes four wheels that are used to transport the transport vehicle 200 along the track 110. These wheels are attached to two axles that are positioned parallel and separated from each other. Two of the wheels are arranged along the front end of the transport vehicle 200, and two of the wheels are arranged along the rear end of the transport vehicle 200.

[0082] Each wheel may have an outer gear that interlocks with the driving surface of the track 110. And this outer gear is fixed to the axle to which it is attached. In this way, the gear rotates by rotating the axle. Therefore, when the transport vehicle 200 is moving in the vertical direction, the gear interlocks with the driving surface of the track 110 to drive the transport vehicle 200 along the track 110.

[0083] The transport vehicle 200 includes an in-vehicle motor that drives the wheels. More specifically, the drive motor is operably connected to the axle, rotates the axle, and rotates the gear of the wheel.

[0084] The transport vehicle 200 may be powered by an external power source such as a contact point along the rail, and the external power source supplies the power required for driving the transport vehicle 200. However, in this embodiment, the transport vehicle 200 includes an in-vehicle power source that supplies the power required for both the drive motor and the conveyor motor. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the power source is rechargeable. And this power source may include a power source such as a rechargeable battery, but in this embodiment, the power source is composed of one or more ultracapacitors.

[0085] As will be further described below, the carrier vehicle 200 also includes a processor that controls the operation of the carrier vehicle 200 in response to signals received from the central processor. The carrier vehicle 200 also includes a wireless transceiver, and the carrier vehicle 200 can communicate continuously with the central processor while moving along the track 110. Alternatively, in some applications, it may be desirable to incorporate a plurality of sensors or indicators arranged along the track 110. In addition to providing a central processor that controls the operation of the carrier vehicle 200 according to the sensors or indicators, the carrier vehicle 200 may also include a reader that senses sensor signals and / or indicators. [Operation]

[0086] The system 10 operates as follows. The item is processed at the induction station 50, and the characteristics of the item indicating the sorting location are identified. As described above, the item may be determined whether it is eligible for transportation by the carrier vehicle 200 based on the physical characteristics of the item. The central control device 350 has various related data to identify the output container 45 or location of the destination of the item to be processed.

[0087] As described above, the induction station 50 may process the item automatically or manually before loading the item onto the carrier vehicle 200. In the manual mode, the operator manually inputs information about the item and places this item on the conveyor. The system 10 electronically tags the sorting information to the item, and the conveyor transports the item towards the loading station 165. Alternatively, if the input system is an automatic system, the item is automatically scanned and the relevant sorting characteristics are identified. For example, the input station may use a scanner such as an RFID scanner to read the RFID tag of the item. Optionally, the input station may also include an imaging device such as a high-speed line scan camera combined with an OCR engine to read information about the item.

[0088] The method of loading an item onto the transport vehicle 200 may include the step of monitoring the item as the item is being transported towards the transport vehicle 200. For example, the monitoring step may include the step of detecting the item at one or more locations as the item is being conveyed towards the loading station 165.

[0089] In this embodiment, the item is monitored at multiple locations as it is being transported from the input location 51 to the loading station 165. The item is monitored using one or more sensors such as an infrared detector having a sensing range across the width of the path along which the item is transported. Each sensor may send a signal indicating the presence of the item at the location of the sensor to the central control device 350. In this way, based on the signals received by the central control device 350 from the sensors, the central control device 350 can determine the timing when the leading end of the item passes the sensor and the timing when the trailing end of the item passes the sensor.

[0090] The central control device 350 may control the movement of the item along the path from the input location to the loading station 165 based on the signals received from the sensors 65, 66, 68. In particular, the central control device 350 may control the speed at which the item travels along the guiding station 50 based on the signals received from the sensors.

[0091] This method may also include the step of selectively waiting for the item at one or more positions along the path from the input location 51 to the loading location 165. For example, the exit sensor 68 may detect the tip of the item as the item is being conveyed along the input path. When the empty transport vehicle 200 is not at the loading location 165, the item waits adjacent to the loading location while the system 10 waits for the empty transport vehicle 200 to arrive at the loading location. For example, when the transport vehicle 200 is not at the loading location, the system 10 may stop the loading conveyor 58 after detecting the item with the exit sensor 68.

[0092] This method may also include controlling the movement of the item through the scan area 75 based on signals received from one or more sensors 65, 66, 68. For example, the central control device 350 may control the operation of the scan entrance conveyor 54 and the scan exit conveyor 56 within the scan area 75 based on signals received from the sensors 66, 68.

[0093] The conveyor may be controlled to wait for the item adjacent to the scan location 70. For example, the system 10 may stop one or more conveyors to stop the item adjacent to the entrance of the scan location and prevent the item from entering the scan area 75 while another item is within the scan area 75. In one method, the central control device 350 may cause the item to wait at a location adjacent to the entrance of the scan location in response to signals received from the entrance sensor 66 and the exit sensor 68. For example, when two items are being conveyed and the leading item has passed the entrance sensor 66 but not the exit sensor 68, the central control device 350 controls one or more conveyors to prevent the subsequent item from entering the scan area 75 until a predetermined time has elapsed after the leading item passes the exit sensor 68.

[0094] This predetermined time may be set based on the detection of the tip or rear end of the leading item by the exit sensor 68. For example, it may not be necessary to allow subsequent items to enter the scanning area 75 until a predetermined time has elapsed since the exit sensor 68 detects the tip of the leading item. Alternatively, it may not be necessary to allow subsequent items to enter the scanning area 75 until a predetermined time has elapsed since the exit sensor 68 detects the rear end of the leading item.

[0095] In addition to controlling the waiting of items based on the signal from this exit sensor 68, the central control device 350 may control the movement of items based on the signal received from the input sensor 65 or the entrance sensor 66. For example, when receiving a signal from the entrance sensor 66 indicating that a subsequent item is present at the location of the entrance sensor, the central control device 350 may wait for the item along the guiding path upstream of the scanning area 75 until receiving a signal from the exit sensor 68 indicating that the leading item has exited the scanning area 75. Furthermore, subsequent items may be made to wait along the guiding path until the leading item exits the scanning station 70.

[0096] The central control device 350 may control subsequent items to wait along the guiding path based on the signal received from the input sensor 65. For example, when the central processor 350 receives a signal from the input sensor indicating that an item is at the location of the input sensor, if the leading item has not passed through the exit sensor 68 as described above, the central control device 350 may control the movement of the item along the guiding path so as to make the item wait adjacent to the entrance of the housing 72. After detecting the tip or the rear end of an item, the central control device 350 can make subsequent items wait by advancing the item by a certain time or distance.

[0097] In view of the above, a method of processing an item may include supplying the item to a conveyor to follow a guiding path extending between an input location 51 and a loading location 165 by supplying the item to the conveyor. This process may include supplying a first item having a first passive RFID tag to a conveyor and transporting the first item to a scanning location 70 to scan the first item by transporting the first item to the scanning location 70.

[0098] Optionally, the step of transporting the first item to the scanning location 70 may include advancing the first item into a conductive housing 72 having one or more walls adjacent to the conveyor and one or more RFID readers 80, 81, 82. For example, the conductive housing 72 may have a first conductive wall 73A adjacent to the entrance of the scanning location 70 and extending upward across the guiding path. An opening may be formed between the first conductive wall 73A and the guiding conveyor, so that an opening through which the item enters the scanning region 75 may be formed. Optionally, the conductive housing 72 may include a second conductive wall 73B adjacent to the exit of the scanning location 70 and extending upward across the guiding path. An opening may be formed between the second conductive wall 73B and the guiding conveyor, so that an opening through which the item exits the scanning region 75 may be formed. Optionally, the housing 72 may include a front wall 74A extending upward and spanning the distance between the first conductive wall 73A and the second conductive wall 73B. And this front wall 74A may extend vertically above one or more RFID readers 80. Furthermore, the housing 72 may include a rear wall 74B facing the front wall 74A and extending upward and spanning the distance between the first conductive wall 73A and the second conductive wall 73B. The rear wall 74B may extend vertically above one or more RFID readers 80 to provide a conductive wall between the scan area 75 and the items on the return conveyor 400.

[0099] The step of scanning may include the step of transporting the first item along the induction path to the scan area 75 while scanning the first item using an RFID reader.

[0100] Optionally, the step of scanning may include the step of scanning the first item while the first item is supported by a non-conductive conveyor having a non-conductive support. For example, the step of scanning may include the step of transmitting a radio frequency signal towards the RFID tag of the first item while the first item is supported on a non-conductive conveyor including a substantially planar non-conductive support.

[0101] The step of scanning the first item may include the step of transmitting a radio frequency signal towards one or more conductive walls separating the first item from one or more items on the induction path. Optionally, the step of scanning the first item may include the step of transmitting a radio frequency signal towards one or more conductive walls separating the first item from one or more items carried on the transport vehicle 200.

[0102] This method may also include the step of supplying a second item having a second RFID tag to the conveyor to follow the induction path. And when the first item enters the scan location, the conveyor may advance the second item to a location adjacent to the scan location. For example, the central control device 350 may control the induction conveyor to wait for the second item at the entrance, and at least a part of the second item may remain outside the housing 72 while the first item is inside the housing 72.

[0103] This method may include a step of scanning a second item after the step of scanning the first item. Optionally, the step of scanning the second item may include a step of controlling the timing of transmitting a radio frequency signal until the first item is carried out from the housing 72.

[0104] After the first item is carried out of the housing 72, the first item may be loaded onto one of the transport vehicles 200 at the loading station 165.

[0105] To prepare to receive the item, the transport vehicle 200 moves along the track 110 towards the loading station 165 of the loading column 160. When the transport vehicle 200 moves to a predetermined position of the loading station 165, the home sensor detects the presence of the transport vehicle 200 and transmits a signal indicating that the transport vehicle 200 is located at the loading station 165 to the central control device (processor) 350.

[0106] When the transport vehicle 200 is located at the loading station 165, the input station conveys the item onto the transport vehicle 200. When the item is conveyed onto the transport vehicle 200, the loading mechanism on the transport vehicle 200 loads the item onto the transport vehicle 200. Specifically, the input station contacts the item with the conveyor belt 212 on the transport vehicle 200. The conveyor belt 212 rotates towards the rear side of the transport vehicle 200 and moves the item rearward on the transport vehicle 200.

[0107] After the item is loaded onto the transport vehicle 200, the transport vehicle 200 moves away from the loading station 165. Specifically, when the in-vehicle control device detects that the item is properly loaded onto the transport vehicle 200, it transmits a signal to start the drive motor.

[0108] The transport vehicle 200 travels from the loading location 165 to one of the output containers 45 and transfers the first item to the first output container 45. After transporting the first item to the first output container 45, the transport vehicle 200 、 may return to the loading location 165 and receive another item to be transported.

[0109] The output containers 45 may be arranged in any manner of various configurations. In this embodiment, the output containers 45 are arranged in one or more rows arranged along the passage through which the transport vehicle 200 moves. The step of transporting the first item may include driving the transport vehicle 200 along a vertical circular path to transport the first item and then returning to the loading location, including the step of driving the transport vehicle 200 along the vertical circular path.

[0110] Optionally, the vertical circular path may include a first vertical section extending upward in the passage, a horizontal section extending horizontally in the passage away from the first vertical section, a second vertical section in the passage extending away from an end of the first horizontal section, and a second horizontal section in the passage extending away from the second vertical section.

[0111] Since the transport vehicle 200 moves upward from the loading point 165 to the loading column 160, it is not necessary to determine the destination of the transport vehicle 200 until after the transport vehicle 200 reaches the first gate along the upper rail 135. For example, if an automatic system is used at the guidance station 50 to scan and determine the characteristics used for sorting items, some processing time may be required to determine the relevant characteristics and / or to receive the destination information by communicating the information with the central control device 350. The time taken to transport the item onto the transport vehicle 200 and transport the transport vehicle 200 upward to the loading column 160 is usually sufficient time to determine the relevant characteristics for each item. However, if the characteristics are not determined by the time the transport vehicle 200 reaches the upper rail 135, the system 10 may declare that the item has not been qualified for sorting, direct the transport vehicle 200 towards the redirection station 400, and discharge the item to the discharge assembly. From the redirection station 400, the transport vehicle 200 moves down the second row to the lower rail 140 and then returns to the loading column 160.

[0112] When an item is qualified for sorting, the central control device 350 determines an output container 45 suitable for that item. Based on the position of the output container 45 for each item, the route of the transport vehicle 200 is determined. Specifically, the central control device 350 determines the route of the transport vehicle 200 and communicates information regarding the output container 45 to which the item is to be transported to the transport vehicle 200. Next, the central control device 350 controls the transport vehicle 200 and / or the gates along the track 110 to direct the transport vehicle 200 towards the appropriate row. When the transport vehicle 200 reaches the appropriate row, the transport vehicle 200 moves down the row to the appropriate output container 45. The transport vehicle 200 stops at the appropriate output container 45, and the on-vehicle control device sends an appropriate signal to the conveyor motor to drive the conveyor belt 212. The conveyor belt 212 moves the item forward and discharges the item into the output container 45. Specifically, the upper surface of the transport vehicle 200 is positioned following the gap between the appropriate output container 45 and the lower end of the output container 45 immediately above the appropriate output container 45.

[0113] Those skilled in the art can make changes or modifications to the above-described embodiments without departing from the broad inventive concept of the present invention. For example, in the foregoing description, the system 10 is described as a series of transport vehicles 200 guided along the track 110. However, the system 10 does not necessarily need to include the track 110. For example, the transport vehicle 200 may move along the ground instead of moving along the track 110. The transport vehicle 200 may be guided along the ground by one or more sensors and / or a control device. Optionally, the transport vehicle 200 may be guided in response to signals from other transport vehicles 200 and / or a central control device 350 (such as a computer that monitors each transport vehicle 200, controls the movement of the transport vehicle 200, and prevents the transport vehicles 200 from colliding with each other). Furthermore, the central control device 350 may provide signals and direct each transport vehicle 200 along a path to a storage location or transfer position.

[0114] In addition to a system in which the transport vehicle 200 moves along the ground without a track, the system 10 may incorporate a guiding assembly that includes one or more rails or other physical guides. The physical guide directs the transport vehicle 200 along a path by contacting a mechanism on the transport vehicle 200. For example, each transport vehicle 200 may include one or more contact elements such as wheels, rollers, guide tabs, pins, or other elements that can engage with the guiding assembly. The guiding assembly may be a linear element such as a straight rail or a curved element. The guiding assembly may curve in a horizontal plane so that the rail lies within a plane, or may curve vertically so that the rail lies within a single plane. The guiding assembly may include multiple guides or rails arranged vertically spaced from each other so that the transport vehicle 200 can move horizontally at multiple vertical positions. This guide may also include an elevator that moves the transport vehicle 200 between multiple rails arranged vertically spaced from each other.

[0115] As can be understood from the above, the system may be incorporated into various systems, and those systems may guide the transport vehicle 200 along the opened area by using a physical guiding mechanism to direct the path for guiding the transport vehicle 200 to the storage location or the transfer location. As described above, the movement of each transport vehicle 200 may be controlled according to the determination of one or more physical characteristics of the item carried by each transport vehicle 200.

[0116] Furthermore, in the foregoing description, the transport mechanism has been described as one or more transport vehicles 200, but it should be understood that various transport mechanisms can be used to transport items from the guidance station 50 to the destination or the storage location. For example, the transport mechanism may include a movable arm, a crane, a shuttle, or other transport vehicles 200.

[0117] Considering the above, the system 10 may include a method or apparatus that combines one or more features described below.

[0118] The system 10 may include an input station having a conveyor and a scanning station. The conveyor may include an input section for receiving an item, a scanning section for receiving the item from this input section, and an output section for receiving the item from this scanning section. The scanning section may include a non-conductive element that supports the item on the scanning unit.

[0119] The scanning station may be configured to scan the item on the scanning section of the conveyor. Optionally, the scanning station may include one or more conductive walls along the scanning section and an RFID scanner.

[0120] The system 10 may also include a transport mechanism that receives one of the items from the output section of the conveyor and transports the item to the storage location. Optionally, system 10 may also include a central control device 350 capable of receiving information regarding the identification of items scanned at the scanning location from the scanning location. Based on the scanned information, the central control device 350 may be configured to determine the storage location of the item. Optionally, the central control device 350 provides a control signal to the transport mechanism to transport the item to the determined storage location.

[0121] System 10 may optionally also include a first plurality of storage locations separated from a second plurality of storage locations by a passageway. The transport mechanism may be configured to move within the passageway. The transport mechanism may include one or more vehicles, shuttles, cranes or movable arms, each of which may be movable within the passageway to transport one item.

[0122] For certain applications, the transport mechanism may be a transport vehicle movable in the vertical and horizontal directions within the passageway. Optionally, as described above, the transport mechanism may include a plurality of transport vehicles movable within the passageway. Furthermore, the plurality of transport vehicles may be simultaneously movable along separate routes to different transport locations. Optionally, the separate routes may be within the passageway.

[0123] System 10 may include a housing 72 including a plurality of conductive walls adjacent to the scan area 75. The housing 72 may include a first conductive wall 73A extending across substantially the entire width of the conveyor. Optionally, the first conductive wall 73A may be configured such that the conveyor can transport items from the input area to the scan area 75.

[0124] The housing 72 may optionally include a second conductive wall 73B extending across substantially the entire width of the conveyor. The second conductive wall 73B may be configured such that the conveyor can convey the item from the scan area 75 to the output area.

[0125] System 10 may include a conveyor having a scan section adjacent to the RFID scanner. The scan section may include a first conveyor belt and a non-conductive element in the form of one or more substantially flat horizontal elements below the first conveyor belt. Optionally, the substantially flat horizontal element may be a substantially horizontal planar support that supports the underside of the first conveyor belt.

[0126] As described above, system 10 may include an RFID scanner that extends along scan area 75 and is directed toward a conductive housing 72 that prevents the RFID scanner from receiving RF signals from RFID tags outside of scan area 75. The RFID scanner may scan an item within scan area 75 while the item is supported on the non-conductive element. The non-conductive element is optionally formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 10,000 Siemens per meter. Furthermore, the non-conductive element is optionally formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 1,000 Siemens per meter. In some embodiments, the non-conductive element is optionally formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 1 Siemens per meter. In an embodiment, the non-conductive element is optionally formed of plastic.

[0127] System 10 may include a conveyor section supported within scan area 75 by a non-conductive support. Furthermore, system 10 may include an input section that may include a conveyor belt and a conductive support that supports an item on the input section below the conveyor belt. Similarly, system 10 may include an output section, which may optionally include a conveyor belt and a conductive support that supports items on the output section under the conveyor belt.

[0128] System 10 may optionally include one or more sensors for controlling the processing of items as they move through system 10. For example, system 10 may include a first sensor 65 that detects the presence of an item on the input section of a conveyor that transports the item past an RFID scanner. The central controller 350 may be configured to receive a signal from the first sensor 65 and control the input section in response to the signal from the first sensor 65.

[0129] Optionally, system 10 may include a second sensor 66 that detects the presence of an item on the conveyor, such as an item within a scan section adjacent to the RFID scanner. The central controller 350 may be configured to receive a signal from the second sensor 66 and control the input section in response to the signal from the second sensor 66. Furthermore, in certain applications, the central controller 350 may be configured to control the operation of the input section and the scan section to hold an item outside of the scan region 75 while a second item is within the scan region 75. Optionally, the central controller 350 may be configured to control the operation of the input section and the scan section in response to signals from the first sensor 65 and the second sensor 66 to hold the item such that at least a portion of the first item is located outside of the housing 72.

[0130] System 10 may also include a third sensor 68 disposed along the conveyor. The third sensor 68 may be arranged to detect the presence of an item on the output section of the conveyor downstream of the scan area 75. The system 10 may be configured such that the central controller 350 receives a signal from the third sensor 68 and controls the operation of the scan section and the output section in response to the signal from the third sensor 68, so that the entire length of the item is located outside the scan area 75 before a part of another item enters the scan area 75.

[0131] The central controller 350 may be configured to control the operation of the RFID scanner to scan the scan area 75 within a time window. The time window may be determined based on signals received from one or more sensors along the conveyor. For example, the start of this time window may be determined based on a signal from a sensor adjacent to the scan area 75. Optionally, the end of the time window may be determined based on a signal from a sensor downstream of the scan area 75.

[0132] In yet another embodiment, the system 10 may include a conveyor and a transport mechanism for transporting items from this conveyor to a storage location. When the item is being conveyed towards the transport mechanism, the RFID scanner may scan the RFID tag of the item. The system 10 may include a housing 72 arranged along the conveyor. Optionally, the housing 72 includes a first conductive wall 73A that extends across the width of the conveyor and is configured such that an item on this conveyor can pass from the input location to the scan area 75. The first conductive wall 73A is preferably formed of a conductive material. The housing 72 may include a second conductive wall 73B that extends across the width of the conveyor and is spaced apart from the first conductive wall 73A to form the scan area 75 therebetween. Optionally, the second conductive wall 73B is configured such that an item on the conveyor can pass from the scan region 75 to the loading location. The second conductive wall 73B is preferably formed of a conductive material.

[0133] The conveyor of system 10 may be configured such that, in the scan region 75, an item is supported on a movable surface for the item to move within the scan region 75. System 10 may include a fixed support surface that supports the movable surface. The movable surface and the fixed support surface are preferably formed of a non-conductive material.

[0134] In one embodiment, system 10 may include a conveyor having an input region, the conveyor being configured such that an item is supported on a movable surface within the input region and the fixed support surface supports the movable surface. The fixed support surface may be formed of any of a variety of materials, but is preferably formed of a conductive material such as metal.

[0135] Similarly, system 10 may include a conveyor having an output region, the conveyor being configured such that an item is supported on a movable surface within the output region and the fixed support surface supports the movable surface. The fixed support surface may be formed of any of a variety of materials, but is preferably formed of a conductive material such as metal.

[0136] System 10 may include a central control device 350 configured to operate an RFID scanner to scan an item when the item is between the first conductive wall 73A and the second conductive wall 73B and the item is on a non-conductive fixed support.

[0137] According to another aspect, a method of transporting an item to one or more destinations is provided. This method may include the step of conveying a first item along a first conveyor section. The item is conveyed from the first conveyor section onto the second conveyor section through a first conductive wall 73A. The first conductive wall 73A separates the first conveyor section from the second conveyor section. When the item is conveyed through the first conductive wall 73A, the item may be conveyed under the first conductive wall 73A or through an opening in the first conductive wall 73A.

[0138] This method may also include the step of transmitting an RF signal towards an RFID tag of the first item on the second conveyor section while the first item is supported on a non-conductive support.

[0139] This method may further include the step of receiving an RF signal from the RFID tag of the first item while the first item is supported on a non-conductive support.

[0140] This method may further include the step of determining a destination of the first item based on the step of receiving an RF signal from the RFID tag.

[0141] The first item may be conveyed through a second conductive wall 73B that separates the second conveyor section from a third conveyor section. When the item is conveyed through the second conductive wall 73B, the item may be conveyed under the second conductive wall 73B or through an opening in the second conductive wall 73B.

[0142] This method may include the step of loading the item from the third conveyor section onto a transport mechanism. The transport mechanism may be movable to convey the item to a predetermined destination. After the transport mechanism has moved to the predetermined destination, the item may be discharged at the destination of conveyance.

[0143] Optionally, the step of conveying an item along the first conveyor section includes the step of supporting the item with a conductive support.

[0144] Optionally, the step of conveying an item along a third conveyor section downstream of the scan area 75.

[0145] According to another aspect, the method includes moving a transport mechanism within a passage between a first plurality of destinations and a second plurality of destinations. Optionally, the step of moving the transport mechanism within the passage includes moving the transport mechanism horizontally and vertically within the passage.

[0146] Optionally, the step of moving the transport mechanism includes moving the transport mechanism within the passage along a vertical annular path extending from a loading location to a determined destination and returning the transport mechanism to the loading location to pick up another item.

[0147] During the step of transmitting an RF signal towards the RFID tag of the item, it may be desirable to support the item on a non-conductive conveyor belt supported by a substantially planar non-conductive support engaged under the conveyor belt. Optionally, during the step of transmitting an RF signal towards the item, it may be desirable to support a second item having a second RFID tag within an input section and simultaneously support a third item having a third RFID tag within a loading section. Optionally, during the step of transmitting the RF signal, it may be desirable to operate the transport mechanism simultaneously to transport a fourth item having a fourth RFID tag.

[0148] The systems and methods described herein may be implemented in various embodiments in software, hardware, or a combination thereof. Furthermore, the order of the methods may be changed, and various elements may be added, rearranged, combined, omitted, or otherwise modified. All of the examples described in this specification are presented in a non-limiting fashion. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure, various modifications and changes may be made. In the description of specific embodiments, the implementation methods of the invention according to the embodiments are described. These embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the invention. Numerous variations, modifications, additions, and improvements are possible. Accordingly, multiple examples may be applied to the components described herein as one example. The boundaries between various components, operations, and data stores are somewhat arbitrary, and specific operations are shown using specific exemplary configurations. Other functional arrangements are conceivable and may be within the scope of the following claims. Finally, the structures and functions shown as separate components in the exemplary configurations may be implemented as a combination of structures or components. The above and other variations, modifications, additions, and improvements may be included within the scope of the embodiments defined in the following claims.

[0149] Accordingly, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described herein, but is intended to include all changes and modifications within the scope and spirit of the invention as set forth in the claims.

Claims

1. An input station, comprising: a conveyor having an input section for receiving an item, a scanning section for receiving the item from the input section, and an output section for receiving the item from the scanning section, wherein the scanning section includes a non-conductive element for supporting the item at a scanning location; an input station including the conveyor; a scanning station for scanning an item on the scanning section of the conveyor, the scanning station comprising: a housing having one or more conductive walls adjacent to the scanning section; an RFID scanner including a transmitter for transmitting a radio frequency signal towards one or more walls of the housing and the scanning section of the conveyor, and a receiver for receiving a signal transmitted from the transmitter; a scanning station including the RFID scanner; a transport mechanism for receiving an item from the output section of the conveyor and transporting the item to a plurality of storage locations; a central control unit for receiving information regarding identification of each item from the scanning station and operable to determine a storage location to which each item is to be transported, wherein the transport mechanism is configured to transport each item to the determined storage location; A material handling apparatus comprising the above components.

2. The material handling apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a first plurality of storage locations separated from a second plurality of storage locations by a passageway, wherein the transport mechanism is configured to move within the passageway.

3. The material handling apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the transport mechanism includes a transport vehicle, a shuttle or a crane movable within the passageway for transporting the item.

4. The material handling apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the transport mechanism includes a transport vehicle movable in vertical and horizontal directions within the passageway.

5. The material handling apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the transport mechanism includes a plurality of transport vehicles movable within the passageway.

6. The material handling apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the housing includes a plurality of conductive walls adjacent to a scanning region along the scanning section.

7. The material handling apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of conductive walls includes a first conductive wall extending substantially across the entire width of the conveyor.

8. The material handling device according to claim 7, wherein the first conductive wall is provided with an opening, and the opening is configured such that an item on the conveyor can move from the input conveyor to the scanning area.

9. The material handling device according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of conductive walls includes a second conductive wall extending over substantially the entire width of the conveyor adjacent to the output section.

10. The material handling device according to claim 9, wherein the second conductive wall is provided with an opening, and the opening is configured such that an item on the conveyor can move from the scanning area to the transport mechanism.

11. The scanning section includes a first conveyor belt, The material handling device according to claim 1, wherein the non-conductive element includes one or more substantially flat horizontal elements under the first conveyor belt.

12. The material handling device according to claim 11, wherein the one or more substantially flat horizontal elements include a substantially planar support supporting the lower side of the first conveyor belt.

13. The material handling device according to claim 12, wherein the non-conductive element is formed of plastic.

14. The material handling device according to claim 1, wherein the non-conductive element is formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 10,000 Siemens per meter.

15. The material handling device according to claim 1, wherein the non-conductive element is formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 1,000 Siemens per meter.

16. The material handling device according to claim 1, wherein the non-conductive element is formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 1 Siemens per meter.

17. The material handling device according to claim 1, wherein the input section includes a second conveyor belt and a conductive support supporting an item on the input section under the second conveyor belt.

18. The material handling device according to claim 1, wherein the output section includes a third conveyor belt and a conductive support supporting an item on the output section under the third conveyor belt.

19. The material handling device according to claim 1, comprising a first sensor for detecting the presence of an item on the input section.

20. The material handling device according to claim 19, wherein the central control device is configured to receive a signal from the first sensor and control the input section in response to the signal from the first sensor.

21. The material handling device according to claim 1, further comprising a second sensor configured to detect the presence of an item on the scan section.

22. The material handling device according to claim 21, wherein the central control device is configured to receive a signal from the second sensor and control the input section in response to the signal from the second sensor.

23. The material handling device according to claim 22, wherein the central control device is configured to control the operations of the input section and the scan section so that a first item waits outside the scan area while a second item is within the scan area.

24. The material handling device according to claim 23, wherein the central control device is configured to control the operations of the input section and the scan section in response to signals from the first sensor and the second sensor, so that at least a part of the first item waits outside the housing.

25. The material handling device according to claim 24, further comprising a third sensor configured to detect the presence of an item on the output section.

26. The material handling device according to claim 25, wherein the central control device is configured to receive a signal from the third sensor and control the operations of the scan section and the output section in response to the signal from the third sensor, so that the entire length of the first item is outside the scan area before a part of another item enters the scan area.

27. The material handling device according to claim 21, wherein the central control device is configured to control the operation of the RFID scanner to scan the scan area within a time window in response to a signal received from the second sensor.

28. The material handling device according to claim 27, wherein the start of the time window is determined based on a signal from the second sensor.

29. The material handling device according to claim 28, wherein the end of the time window is determined based on a signal from a third sensor.

30. A conveyor operable to convey a first item among a plurality of items from an input location to a scan area and then to a loading location, a transport mechanism operable to receive the first item from the conveyor at the loading location and transport the first item to one of a plurality of storage locations, an RFID scanner disposed adjacent to the scan area and having identification information, for scanning an item, a housing disposed along the conveyor, a first wall extending across the width of the conveyor, configured such that an item on the conveyor can pass from the input location to the scan area, and formed of a conductive material, a second wall extending across the width of the conveyor, spaced apart from the first wall such that the scan area is formed therebetween, the second wall being configured such that an item on the conveyor can pass from the scan area to the loading location, and formed of a conductive material, a housing including the same, a material handling apparatus for transporting a plurality of items to a plurality of storage locations, comprising: the conveyor including a movable surface for moving the first item through the scan area and a fixed support surface for supporting the movable surface, the material handling apparatus, wherein the movable surface and the fixed support surface are formed of a non-conductive material.

31. the conveyor including a second movable surface configured to move an item from the input area toward the scan area and a second fixed support surface for supporting the second movable surface, the material handling apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the second fixed support surface is formed of a conductive material.

32. the conveyor including a third movable surface configured to move an item from the scan area toward the loading location and a third fixed support surface for supporting the third movable surface, the material handling apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the third fixed support surface is formed of a conductive material.

33. the first storage location is separated from the second storage location by a passage, the material handling apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the transport mechanism is configured to move within the passage.

34. The material handling apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the conveying mechanism includes a vehicle, a shuttle, or a crane movable within the passageway to convey the first item.

35. The material handling apparatus according to claim 34, wherein the conveying mechanism includes a transport vehicle movable in the vertical and horizontal directions within the passageway.

36. The material handling apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the conveying mechanism includes a plurality of transport vehicles movable within the passageway.

37. wherein the movable surface includes a conveyor belt, The material handling apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the non-conductive fixed support surface includes one or more substantially flat horizontal elements under the conveyor belt.

38. The material handling apparatus according to claim 37, wherein the one or more substantially flat horizontal elements include a substantially planar support for supporting the underside of the conveyor belt.

39. The material handling apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the non-conductive fixed support surface is formed of plastic.

40. The material handling apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the non-conductive fixed support surface is formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 10,000 Siemens per meter.

41. The material handling apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the non-conductive fixed support surface is formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 1,000 Siemens per meter.

42. The material handling apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the non-conductive fixed support surface is formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 1 Siemens per meter.

43. A central control device configured to control the operation of the conveyor so as to prevent the first item from moving through the first wall while the second item is between the first wall and the second wall. The material handling apparatus according to claim 30.

44. The material handling apparatus according to claim 43, wherein the central control device is configured to operate the RFID scanner to scan the second item while the second item is between the first conductive wall and the second conductive wall and the second item is on the non-conductive fixed support surface.

45. The material handling apparatus according to claim 30, comprising a first sensor that detects a leading end of each item before detecting a trailing end of the item that moves through the first wall.

46. The material handling apparatus according to claim 45, wherein the central control device is configured to receive a signal from the first sensor and control the conveyor in response to the signal from the first sensor.

47. The material handling apparatus according to claim 30, comprising a second sensor that detects the presence of each item on the conveyor while the item is supported on the non-conductive fixed support surface.

48. The material handling apparatus according to claim 47, wherein the central control device receives a signal from the second sensor and controls the conveyor in response to the signal from the second sensor, so that before the leading end of the first item is conveyed through the second wall, the conveyor is configured to prevent the trailing end of the second item from being conveyed through the first wall.

49. The material handling apparatus according to claim 44, wherein the central control device controls the operation of the RFID scanner to scan the scan area within a time window in response to the signal received from the first sensor.

50. The material handling apparatus according to claim 49, wherein the start of the time window is determined based on the signal from the first sensor.

51. The material handling apparatus according to claim 50, wherein the end of the time window is determined based on the signal from the second sensor.

52. A method of transporting items to one or more destinations, comprising: transporting a first item along a first conveyor section; transporting the first item onto a second conveyor section under a first conductive wall, wherein the first conductive wall separates the first conveyor section from the second conveyor section; transmitting an RF signal towards an RFID tag of the first item on the second conveyor section while the first item is supported on a non-conductive support; receiving an RF signal from the RFID tag of the first item while the first item is supported on the non-conductive support; Based on the step of receiving the RF signal from the RFID tag, determining the destination of the first item; Conveying the first item under a second conductive wall that separates the second conveyor section from a third conveyor section; Loading the first item onto a transport mechanism from the third conveyor section; Moving the transport mechanism to transport the first item to the determined destination; Discharging the item from the transport mechanism to the determined destination; A method for transporting an item to one or more destinations, including the above steps.

53. The method for transporting an item to one or more destinations according to claim 52, wherein the step of conveying the first item along the first conveyor section includes the step of supporting the first item with a conductive support.

54. The passage separates a first plurality of destinations from a second plurality of destinations, and the step of moving the transport mechanism includes moving the transport mechanism within the passage. The method for transporting an item to one or more destinations according to claim 52.

55. The method for transporting an item to one or more destinations according to claim 54, wherein the step of moving the transport mechanism within the passage includes moving the transport mechanism horizontally and vertically within the passage.

56. The method for transporting an item to one or more destinations according to claim 54, wherein the step of moving the transport mechanism includes moving the transport mechanism within the passage along a vertical annular path extending from the third conveyor section to the determined destination, and returning the transport mechanism to the third conveyor section to pick up another item.

57. The step of transmitting an RF signal toward the RFID tag of the first item on the second conveyor section while the first item is supported on a non-conductive support includes transmitting the RF signal while the first item is on a non-conductive conveyor belt supported by a substantially planar non-conductive support engaged under the non-conductive conveyor belt. The method for transporting an item to one or more destinations according to claim 52.

58. The method of transporting an item to one or more destinations according to claim 52, wherein the step of receiving the RF signal from the RFID tag includes receiving the RF signal while a second item having a second RFID tag is placed on an input location and a third item having a third RFID tag is placed at a loading location.

59. The method of transporting an item to one or more destinations according to claim 58, wherein the step of receiving the RF signal includes receiving the RF signal while the transport mechanism is transporting a fourth item having a fourth RFID tag.

60. Means for transporting a first item among a plurality of items from an input location to a scan area and then to a loading location; Means for receiving the first item at the loading location from the conveyor and transporting the first item to one of a plurality of storage locations; An RFID scanner disposed adjacent to the scan area and having identification information for scanning an item; Means for shielding items in the input location and the loading location from a radio frequency signal from the RFID scanner; A material handling device for transporting a plurality of items to a plurality of storage locations, comprising: The means for transporting includes a movable surface for moving the first item through the scan area and a fixed support surface for supporting the movable surface; The material handling device, wherein the movable surface and the fixed support surface are formed of a non-conductive material.

61. The material handling device according to claim 60, wherein the means for shielding includes a first conductive shielding portion extending across the width of the means for transporting, and is configured to allow an item on the means for transporting to pass from the input location to the scan area.

62. The means for shielding includes a second conductive shielding portion configured to shield an item at the loading location from a radio frequency signal from the RFID scanner, The material handling device according to claim 61, wherein the second conductive shielding portion extends across the width of the means for transporting and is configured to allow an item on the means for transporting to pass from the scan area to the loading location.

63. The means for conveying includes a second movable surface configured to move an item from the input area toward the scan area and a second fixed support surface that supports the second movable surface, The material handling apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the second fixed support surface is formed of a conductive material.

64. The means for conveying includes a third movable surface configured to move an item from the scan area toward the loading location and a third fixed support surface that supports the third movable surface, The material handling apparatus according to claim 63, wherein the third fixed support surface is formed of a conductive material.

65. The first plurality of the storage locations are separated from the second plurality of the storage locations by a passage, The material handling apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the receiving means is configured to move within the passage.

66. The material handling apparatus according to claim 65, wherein the receiving means includes a vehicle, shuttle, or crane movable within the passage for transporting the first item.

67. The material handling apparatus according to claim 66, wherein the receiving means includes a transport vehicle movable in vertical and horizontal directions within the passage.

68. The material handling apparatus according to claim 65, wherein the receiving means includes a plurality of transport vehicles movable within the passage.

69. The movable surface includes a conveyor belt, The material handling apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the non-conductive fixed support surface includes one or more substantially flat horizontal elements under the conveyor belt.

70. The material handling apparatus according to claim 69, wherein the one or more substantially flat horizontal elements include a horizontally planar support that supports the lower side of the conveyor belt.

71. The material handling apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the non-conductive fixed support surface is formed of plastic.

72. The material handling apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the non-conductive fixed support surface is formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 10,000 Siemens per meter.

73. The material handling apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the non-conductive fixed support surface is formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 1,000 Siemens per meter.

74. The material handling apparatus according to claim 60, wherein the non-conductive fixed support surface is formed of a material having a conductivity of less than 1 Siemens per meter.

75. A central control device configured to control the operation of the conveying means so as to prevent the first item from moving through the first conductive shielding portion while the second item is between the first conductive shielding portion and the second conductive shielding portion. The material handling apparatus according to claim 62.

76. The material handling apparatus according to claim 75, wherein the central control device is controlled to operate the RFID scanner to scan the second item while the second item is between the first conductive shielding portion and the second conductive shielding portion and the second item is on the non-conductive fixed support surface.

77. The material handling apparatus according to claim 75, further comprising a first sensor configured to detect a leading end of each item before detecting a trailing end of the item moving through the first conductive shielding portion.

78. The material handling apparatus according to claim 77, wherein the central control device is configured to receive a signal from the first sensor and control the conveyor in response to the signal from the first sensor.

79. The material handling apparatus according to claim 75, further comprising a second sensor configured to detect the presence of each item on the conveying means while the item is supported on the non-conductive fixed support surface.

80. The material handling apparatus according to claim 79, wherein the central control device receives a signal from the second sensor and controls the conveying means in response to the signal from the second sensor to prevent the conveying means from conveying the trailing end of the second item through the first conductive shielding portion before the leading end of the first item is conveyed through the second conductive shielding portion.

81. The material handling apparatus according to claim 77, wherein the central control device controls the operation of the RFID scanner to scan the scan area within a time window in response to the signal received from the first sensor.

82. The material handling apparatus according to claim 81, wherein the start of the time window is determined based on a signal from the first sensor.

83. The material handling apparatus according to claim 82, wherein the end of the time window is determined based on a signal from the second sensor.

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