Method and apparatus for holding items on a mobile item transport and transfer mechanism

Abstract

Each item is held in place while being transported by a mobile transport mechanism. Items to be transported to a target storage location among multiple storage locations are positioned on the transport surface of the transport mechanism. The transport surface defines a holding area separated by a first wall, a second wall, a third wall, and a fourth wall. At least one of the third or fourth wall is displaceable to define an opening in the holding area. The transport mechanism facilitates the transfer of items by moving from the item receiving location to a location near the target storage location, and by displacing either the third or fourth wall to create an opening. Irregularly shaped items can move freely within the boundaries of the holding area on the transport surface while the transport mechanism is moving.

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