Systems and methods of retaining containers at their intended locations during storage

Abstract

A system is provided for engaging and restricting movement of containers stored in a product storage structure at a retail facility. The system includes: at least one guide member coupled to a portion of the product storage structure and configured to engage with and guide the movement of the containers; and at least one clip device configured to couple to the at least one guide member. The at least one clip device includes a moveable member configured to engage a container engaged to the at least one guide member and restrict movement of the container, wherein the moveable member is configured to move under a biasing force.

Description

[0001] Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373-WO (PCT)

[0002] SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF RETAINING CONTAINERS AT THEIR INTENDED LOCATIONS DURING STORAGE

[0003] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0004]

[0001] This application is a non-provisional of and claims the benefit of United States provisional patent application number 63 / 703,086 filed on October 3, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] 1. Field

[0007]

[0002] This invention relates generally to container storage structures and, more particularly, to retaining containers at their intended storage locations at retail facilities.

[0008] 2. Brief Description of Related Developments

[0009]

[0003] Generally, in automated storage systems items, such as containers or totes, are stored in storage spaces within a storage rack. The storage spaces are configured to receive and removably retain the containers or totes for storage in the storage structure. The storage spaces may include guides that aid in positioning the container or tote within the storage space however, these guides may allow a container or tote to slip or otherwise move out of position and hinder movement of automated robots that insert and remove the containers or totes to and from the storage spaces.

[0010]

[0004] Accordingly, the present disclosure addresses a number of those issues.

[0011] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012]

[0005] The foregoing aspects and other features of the present disclosure are explained in the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0013]

[0006] Fig. l is a schematic perspective view illustration of a portion of a product storage structure within a retail facility in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0014]

[0007] Figs. 2 and 3 are respectively schematic side and perspective view illustrations of a clip device of the product storage structure of Fig. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0015]

[0008] Figs. 4A and 4B are respectively schematic perspective view illustrations of a guide member and a portion thereof in the product storage structure of Fig. 1 and including one or more clip device of Figs. 2 and 3 in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0016]

[0009] Fig. 5 is a schematic perspective view illustration of a clip installation device in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0017]

[0010] Figs. 6 and 7 are a schematic perspective view illustrations of a clip device of the product storage structure of Fig. 1 in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0018]

[0011] Fig. 8 is a schematic side view illustration of a portion of a guide member in the product storage structure of Fig. 1 and including one or more clip devices of Figs. 6 and 7 in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0019]

[0012] Fig. 9 is a schematic perspective view illustration of a guide member in the product storage structure of Fig. 1 and including an integral clip device in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0020]

[0013] Figs. 10 and 11 are schematic perspective view illustrations of a clip installation device in accordance with the present disclosure;

[0021]

[0014] Fig. 12 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method in accordance the present disclosure; and

[0022]

[0015] Fig. 13 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method in accordance the present disclosure.

[0023] DETAILED DESCRIPTION Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373-WO (PCT)

[0024]

[0016] The following detailed description is meant to assist the understanding of one skilled in the art, and is not intended in any way to unduly limit claims connected or related to the present disclosure.

[0025]

[0017] The following detailed description references various figures, where like reference numbers refer to like components and features across various figures, whether specific figures are referenced, or not.

[0026]

[0018] The following description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of exemplary embodiments. Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “some embodiments”, “an implementation”, “some implementations”, “some applications”, or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” “in some embodiments”, “in some implementations”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0027]

[0019] The word “each” as used herein refers to a single object (i.e., the object) in the case of a single object or each object in the case of multiple objects. The words “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein are inclusive of “at least one” and “one or more” so as not to limit the object being referred to as being in its “singular” form.

[0028]

[0020] Spatial terms such as “left,” “right,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “back,” “vertical,” and “horizontal” as may be used herein are by way of example and illustration only are not meant to limit the description and may be exchanged in position and orientation.

[0029]

[0021] The terms “substantially” and “about” as may be used herein refer to a feature that may be varied within an acceptable manufacturing tolerance for a given application.

[0030]

[0022] Generally speaking, pursuant to the present disclosure, systems, apparatuses and methods are provided for engaging and restricting movement of containers stored in a product storage structure at a retail facility. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0031]

[0023] The systems, apparatuses and methods may include at least one guide member coupled to a portion of the product storage structure and configured to engage with and guide the movement of the containers.

[0032]

[0024] At least one clip device is configured to couple to the at least one guide member.

[0033]

[0025] The at least one clip device may include a moveable member configured to move under a biasing force and to engage a container engaged to the at least one guide member and restrict movement of the container.

[0034]

[0026] A method, of engaging and restricting movement of containers stored in a product storage structure at a retail facility, may include engaging a container with a moveable member of at least one clip device that moves under a biasing force during the engaging.

[0035]

[0027] The at least one clip device is connected to at least one guide member, and the at least one guide member is coupled to a portion of the product storage structure and configured to engage with and guide movement of the containers.

[0036]

[0028] The method may include restricting movement of the container by the moveable member while the container is engaged to the at least one guide member.

[0037]

[0029] A method or process of installing a clip device, that engages and restricts movement of containers stored in a product storage structure at a retail facility, may include utilizing an installation device for installing at least one clip device.

[0038]

[0030] The installation device includes a handle, a clip engagement interface configured to detachably couple to the at least one clip device and to couple the at least one clip device to at least one guide member, and a shaft interconnecting the handle and the clip engagement interface.

[0039]

[0031] The method may include engaging, by the clip engagement interface, the at least one clip device with the installation device, inserting, by the installation device, the at least one clip device into position with the at least one guide member such that the at least one clip device engages the at least one guide member, and disengaging, by the clip engagement interface, the at least one clip device from the installation device. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0040]

[0032] The at least one clip device is configured to engage with a container while the container is engaged with the at least one guide member.

[0041]

[0033] Fig. 1 illustrates a product storage structure 100 within a retail facility. The retail facility may be any retail facility such as an order fulfillment facility, a distribution center, a retail store, etc., which may utilize a product storage structure 100 for storing containers 102 of products.

[0042]

[0034] The product storage structure 100 may include a plurality of levels that are vertically separated, and aisles extending along each of the levels. Each aisle may include a plurality of container storage locations 106 configured to receive and store a container 102.

[0043]

[0035] The container 102 may, for example, be a tote, box, tray, crate, etc., configured to hold products (which may be any products (i.e., both consumable and non-consumable) sold by a retailer).

[0044]

[0036] While Fig. 1 shows a product storage structure 100 with two levels of container storage locations 106 filled with containers 102, it will be appreciated, that depending on the size and storage needs of the retail facility, there may be any number and / or configuration of levels, aisles, container storage locations 106, and / or product storage structures 100 located throughout a retail facility.

[0045]

[0037] Generally, each container storage location 106 of a product storage structure 100 includes at least one guide member 104.

[0046]

[0038] The guide members 104 may be configured to engage and guide a container 102 into position within a container storage location 106.

[0047]

[0039] When a container 102 is engaged to one or more guide members 104, the guide members 104 may restrict movement of the container 102 horizontally in a direction parallel to the length of the aisle, while at the same time guiding the container 102 into its intended storage position within the product storage structure 100 in a direction perpendicular to the length of the aisle. Each guide member 104 may be coupled to a portion of the product storage structure 100.

[0048]

[0040] In the exemplary embodiment shown in Fig. 1, each container 102 is positioned between and engages a first guide member 104 and a second guide member 104. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0049]

[0041] The embodiment depicted in Fig. 1 shows a view of the containers 102 from a side of the product storage structure 100 accessible by at least mobile robots. Generally, a product storage structure 100 is accessible by mobile robots and / or associates on at least one side of the product storage structure 100.

[0050]

[0042] The mobile robots may be configured to retrieve, transport, and deposit containers 102 to and from container storage locations 106 within the product storage structure 100 and / or alternate locations within the retail facility.

[0051]

[0043] As illustrated in Fig. 1, a container storage location 106 is the space between two guide members 104 where a container 102 is disposed while engaging the two guide members 104.

[0052]

[0044] A product storage structure 100 may comprise a plurality of rows of container storage locations 106 vertically spaced apart. There may be any number of rows and / or any number of container storage locations 106 in a row.

[0053]

[0045] A front end 112 of the guide members 104 may be adjacent to the side of a product storage structure 100 accessible by a mobile robot and / or an associate.

[0054]

[0046] With reference to Figs. 4A and 4B, each of the guide members 104 may be configured to include a grid of rails, which may be arranged in any pattern and which may extend in a plurality of directions including, horizontally, vertically, forwardly, diagonally, etc.

[0055]

[0047] The guide member 104 may comprise any additional features configured to engage with a clip device (such as the clip device 200 depicted in Figs. 2-4B and / or the clip device 600 depicted in Figs. 6-8) and / or a container 102.

[0056]

[0048] As illustrated in Figs. 4A and 4B, the guide member 104 comprises a central area 105 and a peripheral area 107. The central area 105 includes vertically extending walls 109 arranged in an array of rectangles. The peripheral area 107 (which may be generally rectangular and flat (i.e., lacking the vertically extending walls 109)) extends along the length of the guide member 104 on either or both sides of the central area 105. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0057]

[0049] The ends of the guide member 104 may include alternate configurations of walls and features extending generally vertically, relative to the peripheral area 107, that are configured to engage with one or more clip devices 200.

[0058]

[0050] Generally, a container 102 will rest on the flat rectangular surface of the peripheral area 107 on either side of the central area 105 of the guide member 104, and be engaged by a clip device 200 proximally relative to the flat rectangular surface of the peripheral area 107.

[0059]

[0051] The clip device 200 may be mounted to the guide member 104 in the central area 105 in any suitable manner.

[0060]

[0052] The clip device 200 may be mounted to the guide member 104, for example, by being at least in part inserted into one or more cavities located between the vertically extending walls 109 of the central area 105. More generally, the clip device 200 may be attached (detachably or non- detachably) to the guide member 104 in a number of different ways and at a number of different locations, and the guide member 104 may include any alternate configuration of features to permit a container 102 engaged with the guide member 104 to be also engageable by a clip device 200.

[0061]

[0053] The guide member 104 may comprise any combination of materials including plastics, metals, silicones, wood, etc.

[0062]

[0054] Figs. 2 and 3 illustrate a clip device 200 in accordance with the present disclosure. The clip device 200 includes a moveable member 202, an installation interface 204, and a coupling member 206.

[0063]

[0055] The clip device 200 may be configured to engage a container 102 and restrict directional movement of the container 102 stored in a product storage structure 100 within a retail facility.

[0064]

[0056] The clip device 200 may be configured to couple to a guide member 104, as shown, for example, in Figs. 4A and 4B.

[0065]

[0057] The clip device 200 may restrict generally horizontal movement of the container 102 relative to the first guide member and the second guide member in a direction parallel to the length of the aisle of the product storage structure 100. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0066]

[0058] The clip device 200 may be configured to engage (e g., clip onto) the at least one guide member 104.

[0067]

[0059] The clip device 200 may be inserted into the guide member 104 and engaged with the guide member 104 at vertically extending walls 109 as depicted in Figs. 4A and 4B.

[0068]

[0060] One clip device 200 may be attached to one guide member 104 although, multiple (e.g., two, four, etc.) clip devices 200 may be attached to one guide member 104.

[0069]

[0061] Referring to Figs. 2 and 3, the clip device 200 is a side clip device configured to engage with a side wall 103 of a container 102 (see Fig. 4A) although (see e.g., Figs. 7-8), the clip device 200 may be configured to engage with a bottom wall 110 of a container 102.

[0070]

[0062] The clip device 200 may be a stand-alone (i.e., a separate and distinct) device that is non- detachably coupled to the guide member 104. Where the clip device 200 is a stand-alone device, an installation device (e.g., installation device 500, installation device 1000, etc., which are described in more detail below) may be used to couple the clip device 200 with the guide member 104.

[0071]

[0063] Still referring to Figs. 2-3, the clip device 200 is illustrated as a stand-alone device configured to engage one container 102 on one side of a guide member 104.

[0072]

[0064] As shown in Figs. 4A and 4B, two clip devices 200 are coupled to the guide member 104, and each of the clip devices 200 may engage one container 102, such that the guide member 104 in Figs. 4A and 4B, which includes two clip devices 200, may simultaneously engage two containers 102 (notably, Figs. 4A and 4B shows only one of the two clip devices 200 coupled to the guide member 104 engaging a container 102).

[0073]

[0065] The clip device 200 may comprise any combination of suitable materials including, for example, plastics, silicones, metals, etc.

[0074]

[0066] As mentioned above, the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200 is configured to engage a container 102 that is engaged to the guide member 104 to which the clip device 200 is coupled. With the moveable member 202 engaged to the container 102, the moveable member 202 restricts directional movement of the container 102. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0075]

[0067] The moveable member 202 may be configured to move under a biasing force, such as the biasing force 402 depicted in Fig. 4B. The moveable member 202 has an initial position while no forces are acting on the moveable member 202, and an engaged position while an impinging surface (e.g., of an installation device 500, of a container 102, etc.) compresses the moveable member 202 against the biasing force 402, which acts in the direction of the impinging surface to stabilize the moveable member 202 back into its initial position.

[0076]

[0068] The moveable member 202 may be a leaf spring or other resilient member that moves in response to being engaged by an impinging surface. The moveable member 202 may be any movable or deformable lock, interface, latch, spring, tension component, etc., which may engage a container 102.

[0077]

[0069] Referring to Figs. 2 and 3, the moveable member 202 has a first end 203 fixed to and protruding from the clip device 200 and a second end 205 that is not attached to either the clip device 200 or to the guide member 104 (see also Figs. 4A and 4B).

[0078]

[0070] The moveable member 202 may be entirely curved at a middle segment 208 between the first and second ends 203, 205.

[0079]

[0071] The moveable member 202 may include the middle segment 208 including both straight and curved portions, extending between the first and second ends 203, 205, that are configured to move under a biasing force 402.

[0080]

[0072] The moveable member 202 may be fixed to the clip device 200 by the first end 203, the second end 205, the middle segment 208, and / or any combination thereof.

[0081]

[0073] The moveable member 202 may not be a stand-alone component but may be integrally incorporated into (and not attachable to or detachable from) the clip device 200, and made out of a suitable malleable / deformable material that is capable of biasing and engaging the container 102 to retain the container 102 in its place after the moveable member 202 engages the container 102.

[0082]

[0074] The moveable member 202 may be made of any suitable material including, but not limited to plastics, foams, silicones, metals, rubber, etc. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0083]

[0075] The exemplary clip device 200 illustrated in Fig. 2 includes an installation interface 204 configured to interlock with a complementary portion of an installation device, for example, the installation device 500 referenced in Fig. 5. The installation device 500 is configured to engage the clip device 200 and couple the clip device 200 to a guide member 104.

[0084]

[0076] In Fig. 2, the installation interface 204 is a rectangular cutout in a surface of the clip device 200. The installation interface 204 is shown as a cutout in Fig. 2 by way of example only, and it will be appreciated that the installation interface 204 is not limited to a cutout and does not have to be rectangular and may be any of any alternate size and shape suitable for engaging an installation device.

[0085]

[0077] The installation interface 204 may include a receptor feature or an insert feature.

[0086]

[0078] An installation interface 204 that has a receptor feature may include any opening, slit, recess, notch, hole, window, port, socket, divot, cutout, etc., and may be configured to interlock with a complementary insert feature of an installation device, such as of the installation device 500.

[0087]

[0079] An installation interface 204 that has an insert feature may include any member, protrusion, interface, latch, hook, etc., and may be configured to interlock with a complementary receptor feature of an installation device, such as of the installation device 500.

[0088]

[0080] The insert and receptor features described with respect to the installation interface 204 may be the same features as an insert and / or receptor feature of an installation device, such as of the installation device 500.

[0089]

[0081] The exemplary clip device 200 illustrated in Figs. 2-3 may include one or more coupling members 206 configured to interlock the clip device 200 with one or more guide members 104.

[0090]

[0082] The coupling members 206 may be configured to move under a biasing force.

[0091]

[0083] In Fig. 2, the clip device 200 includes four coupling members 206. A first pair of the coupling members 206 may be disposed at a front 207 of the clip device 200, and a second pair of the coupling members 206 may be disposed at a rear 209 of the clip device 200. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0092]

[0084] In Figs. 4A and 4B, the clip device 200 and the coupling members 206 may be configured to interlock with the guide member 104 along a vertically extending wall 109 within the guide member 104.

[0093]

[0085] In Fig. 2, all of the coupling members 206 are located at a bottom 213 of the clip device 200, but it will be appreciated that one or more of the coupling members 206 may be located in a different location, for example, at the top 211 of the clip device 200.

[0094]

[0086] The coupling members 206 may be shaped and oriented to extend generally outwardly and upwardly relative to the bottom 213 of the clip device 200. It will be appreciated, however, that the coupling members 206 may be shaped differently and / or oriented differently than shown in the example provided in Fig. 2.

[0095]

[0087] Generally, the clip device 200 may include any number of coupling members 206, and the coupling members 206 may be located in a number of alternative locations on the clip device 200 that are suitable for coupling the clip device 200 to a guide member 104.

[0096]

[0088] The coupling members 206 may include any lock, latch, interface, notch, spring, member, hook, etc., configured to couple a clip device 200 to a guide member 104.

[0097]

[0089] In Figs. 4A and 4B, two clip devices 200 are coupled with a guide member 104, and one of the clip devices 200 is shown as being engaged with a container 102 (although it will be appreciated that a second container 102 may be brought into engagement with the clip device 200 that is shown as not being engaged with a container 102). In Figs. 4A and 4B, there are two clip devices 200 coupled to the guide member 104 at locations that are closer to a back end 111 of the guide member 104 than to a front end 112 (located opposite to the back end 111) of the guide member 104. The clip devices 200 are coupled to the guide member 104 such that the moveable member 202 of each clip device 200 is positioned to engage a respective container 102, and thereby restrict directional movement of the container 102.

[0098]

[0090] As mentioned above, Figs. 4A and 4B show two stand-alone clip devices 200 coupled to a single guide member 104 and one container 102 coupled with one of the two clip devices 200. As shown in Figs. 4A and 4B, the container 102 coupled to the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200 exerts an impinging force onto the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200, while Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT) the moveable member 202 exerts a biasing force 402 in the direction opposite to the direction of the impinging force exerted by the side wall 103 of the container 102 onto the moveable member 202. While coupled with the side wall 103 of the container 102, the moveable member 202 may be pressed against a flat surface of the side wall 103 of the container 102.

[0099]

[0091] In Figs. 4A and 4B, the moveable member 202 is temporarily housed within an aperture 113 of the side wall 103 while the moveable member 202 is engaged with the side wall 103 of the container 102.

[0100]

[0092] The aperture 113 may be a complimentary recess, notch, and / or alternate receptor feature on the side wall 103 of the container 102 that is configured to fit with the moveable member 202.

[0101]

[0093] The aperture 113 of the side wall 103 may be configured to have a negative profile of the moveable member 202 such that the entirety of the moveable member 202 is flush with a back wall of the aperture 113 of the side wall 103 while engaged with the side wall 103 of the container 102.

[0102]

[0094] Alternately, the aperture 113 may be an opening or hole of the side wall 103 of any size and / or shape that the moveable member 202 fits into such that at least part of the moveable member 202 experiences an impinging force from the side wall 103 of the container 102.

[0103]

[0095] The moveable member 202 may experience an impinging force from the side wall 103 of the container 102 during insertion of the container 102 into an engaged position with the guide member 104. Where the aperture 113 is a hole or opening, the moveable member 202 may experience the impinging force during insertion of the container 102, and the moveable member 202 may extend through the aperture 113 and return to the initial position with no impinging forces when the container 102 is in position with the guide member 104.

[0104]

[0096] The interlocking of the moveable member 202 with the aperture 113 of the side wall 103 may prevent directional movement of the container 102. Notably, the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200 that is not coupled to a container 102 is located at its initial position, which is not affected by an impinging force provided by a surface of a container 102, while the moveable member 202 that is coupled to a container 102, as a result of the impinging force exerted on it by a surface of the container 102 shown in Figs. 4A and 4B, is moved to an engaged position. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0105] However, if the container 102 shown in Figs. 4A and 4B were to be disengaged from the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200, the biasing force 402 would bring the moveable member 202 from the engaged position back to the initial position, and the moveable members 202 of both clip devices 200 coupled to the guide member 104 would revert to their initial positions by virtue of not being engaged with a container 102.

[0106]

[0097] A container 102 may be positioned between two guide members 104 and simultaneously engaged with moveable members 202 of more than one clip device 200, with one of the clip devices 200 being coupled to a first one of the two guide members 104, and the other of the clip devices 200 being coupled to a second one of the two guide members 104. As such, the container 102 is simultaneously engaged with two clip devices 200 coupled to two guide members 104, with the two clip devices 200 engaging the container 102 on opposite sides of the container 102.

[0107]

[0098] Fig. 4A depicts a full view of a container 102 engaged with a guide member 104. The guide member 104 includes a front end 112 adjacent to a side of the product storage structure 100 accessible by a mobile robot and / or associate. As depicted in Fig. 4A, the front end 112 of the guide member 104 may include a protruding feature. The front end 112 of the guide member 104 may be any suitable shape and / or size.

[0108]

[0099] The guide member 104 includes a back end 111 of the guide member 104 distal to the side of the product storage structure 100 accessible by a mobile robot and / or an associate.

[0109]

[0100] As a container 102 is deposited into the container storage location 106 between the two guide members 104, a leading edge 101 of the container 102 enters the container storage location 106 adjacent to the front ends 112 of the guide members 104. As the container 102 is pushed further into the container storage location 106 between the two guide members 104, the leading edge 101 of the container 102 becomes closer to the back end 111 of the guide member 104. The two clip devices 200 may be coupled to the guide member 104 adjacent to the back end 111 of the guide member 104, and as the container 102 is pushed into the container storage location 106 the part of the side wall 103 of the container 102 adjacent the leading edge 101 engages with the clip device 200. As the side wall 103 of the container 102 slides against the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200, as the container 102 is pushed into position between the guide members 104, the biasing force 402 of the moveable member 202 is loaded by an impinging force from the side Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT) wall 103 of the container 102 which compresses the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200 towards the central area 105 of the guide member 104 (and the moveable member 202 substantially presses against the container 102 for retaining the container 102).

[0110]

[0101] Fig. 5 illustrates an exemplary installation device 500 configured to engage one or more clip devices 200 and to attach the one or more clip devices 200 to the guide member 104. The installation device 500 may include a handle 502 that may be grasped by a user, a clip engagement interface 504 that is configured to engage / grasp one or more clip devices 200, and a shaft 506 that interconnects the handle 502 and the clip engagement interface 504.

[0111]

[0102] The installation device 500 may be configured to engage the clip device 200 via the clip engagement interface 504, insert the clip device 200 into position such that the clip device 200 engages the guide member 104, and with the clip device engaged with the guide member 104, disengage from the clip device 200 via the clip engagement interface 504.

[0112]

[0103] The installation device 500 may be configured to preload the biasing force 402 of the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200.

[0113]

[0104] In Fig. 5, the installation device 500 is configured to engage with a clip device 200 and couple the clip device 200 to a guide member 104 such that, when the clip device 200 is coupled to the guide member 104, the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200 is positioned to engage a side wall 103 of a container 102 to restrict directional movement of the container 102 with the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200 coupled to the side wall 103 of the container 102.

[0114]

[0105] The installation device 500 may comprise any combination of materials including metals, plastics, silicones, wood, etc.

[0115]

[0106] Notably, the installation device 500 is not required to insert the clip device 200 into the guide member 104 such that the clip device 200 may be inserted manually (i.e., by hand) into the guide member 104 without the use of an installation device 500.

[0116]

[0107] The installation device 500 may be configured to disengage the clip engagement interface 504 from the clip device 200 by utilizing a movable mechanical actuator, which may be, for example, any button, switch, lever, etc., that a user pushes, pulls, twists, lifts, etc., to cause the Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT) disengagement of the clip device 200 from the clip engagement interface 504 of the installation device 500; however, after the clip device 200 is installed (e.g., locked into place) within the guide member 104, the clip device 200 may be configured automatically detach from the clip engagement interface 504 of the installation device 500.

[0117]

[0108] Where the clip device 200 is configured to automatically disengage from the installation device 500, after the coupling members 206 of the clip device 200 engage the guide member 104, the clip device 200 remains coupled to the guide member 104 and in its installed position even when the installation device 500 is disengaged from the clip device 200 and moved away from the clip device 200 and the guide member 104. In other words, after the clip device 200 is installed by the installation device 500 into engagement with the guide member 104, the connection of the clip device 200 to the guide member 104 is stronger than the connection of the clip device 200 to the clip engagement interface 504 of the installation device 500 (i.e., if the reverse were true, then removal of the clip engagement interface 504 of the installation device 500 away from the guide member 104 would cause the just-installed clip device 200 to disengage from the guide member 104, which would be undesirable).

[0118]

[0109] The clip engagement interface 504 of the installation device 500 may preload the biasing force 402 of the moveable member 202 and use the biasing force 402 to engage the clip device 200 with the clip engagement interface 504 of installation device 500. After the clip device 200 is engaged with the guide member 104, pulling the installation device 500 away from the clip device 200 may disengage the clip device 200 from the clip engagement interface 504 of installation device 500 and unload the biasing force 402 of the moveable member 202 of the clip device 200.

[0119]

[0110] As mentioned above, the handle 502 of the installation device 500 is configured for a user to hold onto while using the installation device 500 to install the clip device 200 into engagement with the guide member 104.

[0120]

[0111] The handle 502 may be an extension of the shaft 506, or may alternately be a separate, ergonomically-shaped piece that is attached to the shaft 506 to provide improved comfort or grip to a user using the installation device 500.

[0121]

[0112] The handle 502 may include a knob 503. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0122]

[0113] The knob 503 may be a push knob configured to align the clip device 200 relative to the guide member 104 and to release the clip device 200 into place and into an interlocking engagement with the guide member 104. The knob 503 does not necessarily have to be a push knob, and may be alternatively configured to use any other function, such as twisting, pulling, tapping, etc. (as noted above).

[0123]

[0114] The handle 502 and / or the knob 503 may be made out of any suitable material including, metals, plastics, silicones, foam, rubber, etc.

[0124]

[0115] The clip engagement interface 504 of the exemplary installation device 500 illustrated in Fig. 5 is configured to engage (grasp, interlock with, etc.) a clip device 200 and aid in the insertion (i.e., installation) of the clip device 200 into a guide member 104 (Figs. 4A and 4B show two clip devices 200 in their installed positions relative the guide member 104).

[0125]

[0116] The clip engagement interface 504 is configured to detachably couple to the clip device 200 and bring the clip device 200 toward the guide member 104 while being coupled to the clip device 200, and to install the clip device 200 (i.e., couple the clip device 200 to the guide member 104). The clip engagement interface 504 may be substantially any interface configured to temporarily connect with a clip device 200, including clips, hooks, notches, prongs, buckles, locks, etc.

[0126]

[0117] The clip engagement interface 504 interlocks with the installation interface 204 of the clip device 200.

[0127]

[0118] The clip engagement interface 504 may be an insert feature configured to engage with a complementary receptor feature of the installation interface 204.

[0128]

[0119] The clip engagement interface 504 may be a receptor feature configured to engage with a complementary insert feature of the installation interface 204.

[0129]

[0120] The insert and / or receptor features on either the clip engagement interface 504 of the installation device 500 or the installation interface 204 of the clip device 200 may be any of the insert and / or receptor features described with reference to Figs. 2-3. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0130]

[0121] The clip engagement interface 504 may engage with the clip device 200 by a combination of different mechanisms and contact points such as the installation interface 204, the moveable members 202, any alternate force and / or location of contact on the clip device 200, and / or any combination thereof.

[0131]

[0122] Referring to Fig. 5, the shaft 506 of the exemplary installation device 500 is configured to interconnect the clip engagement interface 504 of the installation device 500 and the handle 502 of the installation device 500.

[0132]

[0123] The shaft 506 may have any size, shape, length or width suitable for extending between and interconnecting the handle 502 and the clip engagement interface 504. The shaft 506 may have any suitably shaped cross section including circular, square, rectangular, etc. The shaft 506 may have any suitable configuration including straight, curved, L-shaped, etc., configured to aid in the insertion of the clip device 200 into the guide member 104. The size and shape of the shaft 506 may be fixed although, the shaft 506 may be configured to have an adjustable size and / or shape to suit a wide variety of installation spaces and / or conditions.

[0133]

[0124] The installation device 500 may include additional optional components and / or mechanisms configured to aid in the insertion of the clip device 200 into the guide members 104.

[0134]

[0125] The installation device 500 may, for example, optionally include alignment teeth 505. The alignment teeth 505 may be disposed along the side of the shaft 506 and are configured to align the clip device 200 with the guide member 104 for insertion. The alignment teeth 505 may be placed in any alternate location on the installation device 500 that allows for assisting in the alignment of the clip device 200 with the guide member 104.

[0135]

[0126] The installation device 500 may optionally include a reference pocket 507. The reference pocket 507 may be any window, pocket, opening, slit, etc., of substantially any shape and / or size. The reference pocket 507 is configured to allow an operator, when using the installation device 500, to install a clip device 200 into the guide member, to determine when the clip device 200 is in proper alignment with the guide member 104.

[0136]

[0127] The reference pocket 507 may be a visual indicator to an operator to determine when the clip device 200 is in proper position to be inserted into the guide member 104, but may alternately Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT) be a physical indicator configured to restrict the installation device 500 from directional movement past a predetermined installation position. The predetermined installation position is where the clip device 200, being advanced or otherwise positioned by the installation device 500, is in proper alignment with the guide member 104 for insertion of the clip device 200 into the guide member 104.

[0137]

[0128] The installation device 500 may optionally include a container spreader mechanism 508 configured to separate two adjacent containers 102 on opposite sides of a guide member 104.

[0138]

[0129] The container spreader mechanism 508 may apply force on the containers 102 in a direction away from the guide member 104 to create space for the insertion of a clip device 200 via the installation device 500 into the guide member 104 (e g., with the containers 102 disposed in adjacent container storage locations 106).

[0139]

[0130] Figs. 6 and 7 illustrate a clip device 600 in accordance with the present disclosure. The clip device 600 includes a moveable member 602 (two moveable members 602 are shown in Fig. 6), an installation interface 604, and a coupling member 606 (two coupling members 606 are shown in Fig. 6).

[0140]

[0131] The clip device 600 is similar to the clip device 200 described in Figs. 2-4B in that the clip device 600 is configured to be coupled to a guide member 104 for the purpose of restricting directional movement of one or more containers 102 and retaining the container(s) 102 in their intended container storage location(s) 106. However, while the clip device 200 is configured to be coupled to a upwardly-facing surface 115 of the guide member 104 and to engage a side wall 103 of a container 102, the clip device 600 shown in Figs. 6 and 7 is configured to be coupled to a downwardly-facing surface 117 (see Fig. 7) of the guide member 104 and to engage with a bottom wall 110 of a container 102.

[0141]

[0132] In Fig. 6, the clip device 600 may be configured to simultaneously engage with two containers 102, such that a first container 102 (partially shown in Figs. 7-8) is positioned on one side of the guide member 104, and a second container 102 (not shown) is positioned on an opposite side of the guide member 104. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0142]

[0133] The moveable member 602 of the clip device 600, like the moveable member 202 described with reference to Figs. 2-4B, is configured to engage with a container 102, and restrict the directional movement of the container 102 while the container 102 is engaged with the moveable member 602.

[0143]

[0134] Still referring to Fig. 6, the clip device 600 includes two moveable members 602, with a first moveable member 602 being located adjacent a first side edge 603 of the clip device 600 and a second moveable member 602 being located adjacent a second side edge 605 of the clip device 600 that is opposite to the first side edge 603.

[0144]

[0135] Each of the first end 607 and the second end 609 of the moveable member 602 is fixed to the clip device 600 while the central segment 611 of the moveable member 602, which interconnects the first end 607 and the second end 609, is permitted to move relative to the first and second ends 607, 609 and a body or frame 600F (see Fig. 6) of the clip device 600. The moveable member 602 of the clip device 600 may be fixed to the body 600F of the clip device 600 by the first end 607, the second end 609, the central segment 611, and / or any combination thereof.

[0145]

[0136] While Fig. 6 shows the clip device 600, where each of the first end 607 and the second end 609 of the moveable member 602 is attached to the body 600F of the clip device 600, one end (either the first end 607 or the second end 609) of the moveable member 602 may be fixed while the other respective end 607, 609 is free.

[0146]

[0137] The moveable member 602 generally has an initial position, where no impinging forces are acting on the moveable member 602, and an engaged position where an impinging surface (e.g., a bottom wall 110 of a container 102) compresses the moveable member 602, and a biasing force 802 (see Fig. 8) acts in the direction of the impinging surface (i.e., the bottom wall 110 of the container 102) to return the moveable member 602 back into the initial position.

[0147]

[0138] The moveable member 602 may be a leaf spring, or alternate spring configured to have a biasing force 802 while engaged with a surface, such as a side wall 103 or a bottom wall 110 of a container 102.

[0148]

[0139] The moveable member 602 may comprise any combination of materials configured to bias during the engagement of a container 102 such as plastics, foam, silicones, metals, rubber, etc. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0149]

[0140] The installation interface 604 (see Fig. 6) of the clip device 600 may be configured to interlock with an installation device, such as the installation device 1000, described with reference to Figs. 10-11. The installation device 1000 is configured to install the clip device 600 onto a guide member 104.

[0150]

[0141] In Fig. 6, the installation interface 604 is an opening in the clip device 600 that is sized and shaped to engage a complementary portion of the installation device 1000.

[0151]

[0142] The installation interface 604 may include a receptor feature such as an opening, slit, recess, notch, hole, window, port, socket, divot, cutout, etc., configured to engage with a complementary insert feature of the installation device 1000.

[0152]

[0143] The installation interface 604 may include an insert feature such as a member, protrusion, interface, latch, hook, etc., configured to engage with a complementary receptor feature of the installation device 1000.

[0153]

[0144] The insert and receptor features described with respect to the installation interface 604 may be the same features as an insert and / or receptor feature of the installation device 1000.

[0154]

[0145] Still referring to Figs. 6-7, the clip device 600 includes two coupling members 606 that are configured to interlock the clip device 600 with the guide member 104. The coupling members 606 are configured to engage with a complementary feature on the downwardly-facing surface 117 of the guide member 104. The coupling members 606 may be movable against a biasing force into engagement with the guide member 104.

[0155]

[0146] The at least one coupling member 606 include hooks, notches, locks, etc., to engage with complementary features of the guide member 104 to securely couple the clip device 600 to the guide member 104 (see Fig. 7).

[0156]

[0147] Fig. 7 illustrates the clip device 600 engaged with both the guide member 104 and a container 102. The coupling members 606 may be engaged with a protruding feature 119 extending from the downwardly-facing surface 117 of the guide member 104 near the back end 111 of the guide member 104. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0157]

[0148] Each coupling member 606 may include a hook (located closer to a front edge 612 of the clip device 600 than to a rear edge 614 of the clip device 600) that engages with a complementary portion (in this example, a ridge) of the protruding feature 119 of the guide member 104 to securely couple the clip device 600 to the guide member 104.

[0158]

[0149] In Fig. 7, with the clip device 600 installed such that the coupling members 606 of the clip device 600 couple to the complementary portions of the protruding feature 119 of the guide member 104, the moveable member 602 is configured to engage with a bottom wall 110 of the container 102 to restrict directional movement of the container 102 and retain the container 102 in its desired place on the product storage structure 100. Notably, while the clip device 600 is shown in Fig. 7 as engaging only one container 102, it will be appreciated that the second moveable members 602 of the clip device 600 may be engaged with a second container 102 on an opposite side of the guide member 104 relative to the first container 102 shown in Fig. 7, such that the clip device 600 may be simultaneously engaged to two containers 102 and retain the containers 102 in their desired storage locations on the product storage structure 100.

[0159]

[0150] With reference to Fig. 8, with the clip device 600 engaged with the guide member 104 and engaged with a container 102, the moveable member 602 is engaged with a bottom wall 110 of the container 102 to restrict movement of the container 102 and retain the container 102 in place on the product storage structure 100. While the moveable member 602 of the clip device 600 and the bottom wall 110 of the container 102 are engaged, the moveable member 602 may be coupled to a notched section 120 of the bottom wall 110 of the container 102 as depicted in Fig. 8. However, it will be appreciated that the moveable member 602 does not necessarily have to engage a notched section 120 as shown in Fig. 8, and that, in some embodiments, the moveable member 602 may be engaged with another portion of the bottom wall 110 of the container 102 not including a notch feature. The moveable member 602 may be engaged with any combination of flat, notched, and / or protruding surfaces of the container 102 to retain the container 102 as described herein.

[0160]

[0151] In Fig. 8, the moveable member 602 is temporarily housed within a notched section 120 of the bottom wall 110 while the moveable member 602 is engaged with the bottom wall 110 of the container 102. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0161]

[0152] The notched section 120 may be a complimentary recess, notch, and / or alternate receptor feature on the bottom wall 110 of the container 102 that is configured to fit with (e.g., by snap fit, etc.) the moveable member 602.

[0162]

[0153] The notched section 120 of the bottom wall 110 may be configured to have a negative profile of the moveable member 602 such that the entirety of the moveable member 602 is flush with a top wall of the notched section 120 of the bottom wall 110 while engaged with the bottom wall 110 of the container 102. Alternately, the notched section 120 may be an opening or hole of the bottom wall 110 of any size and / or shape that the moveable member 602 fits into such that at least part of the moveable member 602 experiences an impinging force from the bottom wall 110 of the container 102.

[0163]

[0154] The moveable member 602 may experience an impinging force from the bottom wall 110 of the container 102 during insertion of the container 102 into an engaged position with the guide member 104. Where the notched section 120 is a hole or opening, the moveable member 602 may experience the impinging force during insertion of the container 102, and the moveable member 602 may extend through the notched section 120 and return to the initial position with no impinging forces when the container 102 is in position with the guide member 104.

[0164]

[0155] The interlocking of the moveable member 602 with the notched section 120 of the bottom wall 110 may substantially prevent directional movement of the container 102. While the moveable member 602 of the clip device 600 and the bottom wall 110 of the container 102 are engaged, a biasing force 802 (see Fig. 8) of the moveable member 602 pushes against the surface of the notched section 120 of the bottom wall 110 of the container 102 engaged by the moveable member 602. Generally, the biasing force 802 maintains substantial contact between the movable member 602 and the container 102 so as to restrict directional movement of the container 102 while the container 102 is engaged with the moveable member 602.

[0165]

[0156] Fig. 8 depicts a side view of a container 102 engaged with a guide member 104. The guide member 104 generally includes the front end 112 adjacent to a side of the product storage structure 100 accessible by a mobile robot and / or associate. The guide member 104 includes a back end 111 that is distal to the side of the product storage structure 100 accessible by a mobile robot and / or an associate. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0166]

[0157] As a container 102 is deposited into the container storage location 106 between the two guide members 104, the leading edge 101 of the container 102 enters the container storage location 106 adjacent to the front ends 112 of the guide members 104. As the container 102 is pushed further into the container storage location 106 between the two guide members 104, the leading edge 101 of the container 102 becomes closer to the back end 111 of the guide member 104. The two clip devices 600 are coupled to the guide member 104 adjacent the back end 111 of the guide member 104, and as the container 102 is pushed into the container storage location 106 the part of the bottom wall 110 of the container 102 adjacent the leading edge 101 engages with the clip device 600. As the bottom wall 110 of the container 102 slides against the moveable member 602 of the clip device 600 as the container 102 is pushed into position between the guide members 104, the biasing force 802 of the moveable member 602 is loaded by an impinging force from the bottom wall 110 of the container 102 which compresses the moveable member 602 of the clip device 600 towards the downwardly-facing surface 117 of the guide member 104 (noting the biasing force of the moveable member maintains substantial contact between the moveable member 602 and container 102 to retain movement of the container 102).

[0167]

[0158] Fig. 9 depicts a guide member 904 with an integral container retention mechanism according to the present disclosure. This guide member 904 is different from the guide member 104 in that the guide member 904 integrally includes two moveable members 902 akin to the moveable members 202 and 602 of the stand-alone clip devices 200 and 600, respectively. In other words, instead of having separate and distinct clip devices 200 or 600 attached thereto by an installation device 500 or 1000, the exemplary guide member 904 is formed integrally with (i.e., manufactured as a single unitary structure with) two moveable members 902 (located closer to a back end 911 of the guide member 904 than to a front end 913 of the guide member 904), such that the moveable members 902 (which perform the function of the clip devices200, 600 described above) are not detachable from the guide member 904. In Fig. 9, the moveable members 902 of the guide member 904 are configured to engage with two containers 102, with one of the moveable members 902 engaging one container 102, and the other of the moveable members 902 engaging another container 102.

[0168]

[0159] In Fig. 9, the moveable members 902 of the guide member 904 are located and oriented to engage with a bottom wall 110 of a container 102 although, the moveable members 902 of the Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT) guide member 904 may be of a different shape and / or size and may be located and oriented such that the moveable members 902 engage with a side wall 103 of the container 102. It will be appreciated that the guide member 904 may include a different number of moveable members 902 than the number (i.e., 2) shown in Fig. 9, and that the guide member 904 may include some moveable members 902 that engage a side wall 103 of a container and some moveable members 902 that engage a bottom wall 110 of a container 102 to restrict directional movement of the container 102 while the container is engaged by the moveable members 902 of the guide member 904.

[0169]

[0160] Figs. 10-11 depict the installation device 1000 referred to above. The installation device 1000 includes a clip engagement interface 1004, a handle 1002, and a shaft 1006. The installation device 1000 is configured to be complementary to the clip device 600, and to install the clip device 600 to the guide member 104 (i.e., in engagement with the guide member 104) so that the clip device engages with, and restricts directional movement of, one or more containers 102.

[0170]

[0161] The installation device 1000 is configured to engage (e.g., grasp, interlock, etc.) with the clip device 600 via the clip engagement interface 1004. With the clip engagement interface 1004 engaged with the clip device 600, the installation device 1000 may be moved toward and into a desired location for installation of the clip device 600 to or on the guide member 104. When the installation device 1000 is in the desired installation position, the installation device 1000 may be used to insert or otherwise couple the clip device 600 into engagement with the guide member 104, after which, the clip engagement interface 1004 may be disengaged from the clip device 600 (e.g., in any suitable manner including, but not limited to, as described above with respect to installation device 500), and the installation device 1000 may then be removed from the installation location (leaving the clip device 600 in engagement with the guide member 104 as shown, for example, in Fig. 7), and thereafter used to install another clip device 600.

[0171]

[0162] The installation device 1000, when coupled to the clip device 600 (as shown, for example, in Figs. 10-11), may be configured to preload the biasing force 802 (see Fig. 8) of the moveable member 602 of the clip device 600.

[0172]

[0163] Referring to Figs. 7, 8, and 10-11, the clip engagement interface 1004 of the installation device 1000 is configured to engage with a clip device 600 as shown in Figs. 10 and 11, and to Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT) install the clip device 600 into engagement with the guide member 104 (as shown in Figs. 7-8), such that the moveable members 602 of the clip device 600 are positioned to engage a bottom wall 110 of a container 102 (see Figs. 7-8).

[0173]

[0164] The installation device 1000 may comprise any combination of materials including metals, plastics, silicones, wood, etc.

[0174]

[0165] The clip device 600 may be inserted manually (i.e., by hand) into the guide member 104 without the use of an installation device 1000. In other words, the use of the installation device 1000 is optional (albeit preferred to manual insertion of the clip device 600 onto the guide member 104 by hand).

[0175]

[0166] The installation device 1000 may disengage with the clip device 600 by utilizing a movable mechanical actuator (e.g. a button, a switch, etc.). Where the installation device 1000 utilizes a mechanical actuator, the mechanical actuator may be any button, switch, lever, etc., that a user pushes, pulls, twists, lifts, etc., to cause the disengagement of the installation interface 604 of the clip device 600 from the clip engagement interface 1004 of the installation device 1000.

[0176]

[0167] After the clip device 600 is locked into place within the guide member 104, the clip device 600 may automatically detach from the clip engagement interface 1004 of the installation device 1000. For example, after the coupling members 606 of the clip device 600 engage with the guide member 104, the clip device 600 remains coupled to the guide member 104 and in its installed position even when the installation device 1000 is disengaged from the clip device 200 and moved away from the clip device 600 and the guide member 104. In other words, after the clip device 600 is installed by the installation device 1000 into engagement with the guide member 104, a force of the clip device 600 to the guide member 104 is stronger than the connection of the clip device 600 to the installation device 1000 (i.e., if the reverse were true, then removal of the clip engagement interface 1004 of the installation device 1000 away from the guide member 104 would cause the just-installed clip device 600 to disengage from the guide member 104, which would be undesirable). The clip engagement interface 1004 of the installation device 1000 may preload the biasing force 802 of the moveable member 602 and use the biasing force 802 to engage the clip device 600 with the clip engagement interface 1004 of the installation device 1000. After the clip device 600 is engaged with the guide member 104, pulling the installation device 1000 away from Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT) the clip device 600 may disengage the clip device 600 from the clip engagement interface 1004 of the installation device 1000 and may unload the biasing force 802 of the moveable members 602 of the clip device 600.

[0177]

[0168] As mentioned above, the clip engagement interface 1004 interlocks with a clip device 600 and aids in the insertion of the clip device 600 into a guide member 104. The clip engagement interface 1004 may be configured to detachably couple to the clip device 600 and to couple the clip device 600 to the guide member 104.

[0178]

[0169] The clip engagement interface 1004 may be substantially any interface configured to temporarily connect with a clip device 600, including clips, hooks, notches, prongs, buckles, locks, etc.

[0179]

[0170] The clip engagement interface 1004 may interlock with the installation interface 604 of the clip device 600.

[0180]

[0171] The clip engagement interface 1004 may be an insert feature configured to engage with a complementary receptor feature of the installation interface 604 of the clip device 600.

[0181]

[0172] The clip engagement interface 1004 may be a receptor feature configured to engage with a complementary insert feature of the installation interface 604 of the clip device 600.

[0182]

[0173] The insert and / or receptor features on the clip engagement interface 1004 and / or the installation interface 604 may be any of the insert and / or receptor features described with reference to Fig. 6.

[0183]

[0174] The installation device 1000 may be coupled to the clip device 600 such that portions of the clip engagement interface 1004 engage the moveable members 602 of the clip device and preload the moveable members 602 against the biasing force 802 of the moveable members 602.

[0184]

[0175] An exemplary coupling of the clip engagement interface 1004 of the installation device 1000 and the clip device 600 is shown in Figs. 10-11. After the clip device 600 is installed by the installation device 1000 onto the guide member 104, i.e., when the clip device 600 is engaged with the guide member 104 as shown in Fig. 7, the installation device 1000 may be pulled away from the guide member 104 to disengage the clip engagement interface 1004 of the installation device Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0185] 1000 from the clip device 600. The clip engagement interface 1004 may engage with the clip device 600 by a combination of different mechanisms and contact points such as the installation interface 604, the moveable members 602, any alternate force or location of contact on the clip device 600, and any combination thereof.

[0186]

[0176] In a manner similar to that mentioned above with respect to installation device 500, the handle 1002 of the installation device 1000 may be sized and shaped to enable a user to grasp and hold the handle 1002 while installing the clip device 600 into engagement with the guide member 104.

[0187]

[0177] The handle 1002 may be an extension of the shaft 1006, or may alternately be a separate, ergonomically-shaped piece that is attached to the shaft 1006 to provide improved comfort or grip to a user using the installation device 1000.

[0188]

[0178] The handle 1002 may be used to provide an improved grip to a user, although the handle 1002 may also be configured to release the clip device 600 from the installation device 1000.

[0189]

[0179] The handle 1002 may be configured to utilize any function such as twisting, pulling, tapping, pushing, pressing, etc. to align and release the clip device 600 into place with the guide member 104.

[0190]

[0180] The handle 1002 may be made out of any suitable material including, metals, plastics, silicones, foam, rubber, etc.

[0191]

[0181] Referring to Figs. 10-11, the shaft 1006 of the installation device 1000 may be configured to interconnect the clip engagement interface 1004 of the installation device 1000 and the handle 1002 of the installation device 1000. The shaft 1006 may have any size, shape, length, or width suitable for extending between and interconnecting the handle 1002 and the clip engagement interface 1004. The shaft 1006 may have any shaped cross section including circular, square, rectangular, etc. The shaft 1006 may have any configuration including straight, curved, L-shaped, etc., configured to aid in the insertion of the clip device 200 into the guide member 104. The size and shape of the shaft 1006 may be fixed although, the shaft 1006 may be configured to have an adjustable size and / or shape to suit a wide variety of installation spaces and conditions. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0192]

[0182] The installation device 1000 may include additional optional components and / or mechanisms configured to aid in the insertion of the clip device 600 into the guide members 104.

[0193]

[0183] For example, the installation device 1000 may optionally include alignment features at the clip engagement interface 1004 configured to align the clip device 600 with the guide member 104 for insertions.

[0194]

[0184] The installation device 1000 may optionally include spring loaded components for retention of complementary portions (e.g., moveable members 602) of the clip device 600 in the clip engagement interface 1004 during insertion of the clip device 600 into the guide member 104.

[0195]

[0185] The spring-loaded components of the clip engagement interface 1004 may compress while engaged with a clip device 600 during insertion of the clip device 600 onto the guide member 104. After insertion, the spring-loaded components may disengage from the clip device 600 and return to their initial (uncompressed) position.

[0196]

[0186] Fig. 12 shows an exemplary method 1200 of engaging and restricting movement of containers 102 stored in a product storage structure 100 at a retail facility. It is generally contemplated that the method 1200 may use some or all of the components described above, such as, for example, components of the clip devices and / or installation devices described above. In the exemplary method 1200 shown in Fig. 12, at block 1202, a container 102 is engaged by a moveable member 202, 602, 902 of at least one clip device (e.g., clip device 200, clip device 600, and / or the clip device integrally formed with the guide member 904), and the moveable member 202, 602, 902 moves, in response to a force being applied by a surface of the container 102, against a biasing force (see Figs. 4A-4B and 8) that biases the moveable members 202, 602, 902. As pointed out above, one or more clip devices may be installed onto (i.e., operatively coupled to) a guide member 104, 904, and the guide member 104, 904 is operatively coupled / attached to a portion of the product storage structure 100 and configured to engage the containers 102 moving about the product storage structure 100 and guide the movement of the containers 102 moving about the product storage structure 100.

[0197]

[0187] At block 1204 of the exemplary method 1200, the moveable member 202, 602, 902 of the clip device, when engaged to the container 102, restricts directional movement of the container Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)

[0198] 102 while the container 102 is engaged with the guide member 104, 904 to which the clip device is connected. The method 1200 may include attaching, by an installation device 500, 1000, one or more clip devices 200, 600 to the guide member 104, 904. As pointed out above, an exemplary installation device 500, 1000 may include a handle that may be grasped and held by a user, a clip engagement interface configured to detachably couple to the clip device being installed by the installation device into engagement with the guide member, and to attach the clip device to the one guide member, and a shaft interconnecting the handle and the clip engagement interface. The step of attaching the clip device to the guide member via the installation device may include engaging, by the clip engagement interface, the clip device with the installation device, followed by inserting, by the installation device, the clip device into a desired position (e.g., proper alignment) for installing the clip device onto the guide member, such that the clip device engages (e.g., attached to, interlocks with) the guide member, followed by disengaging, by the clip engagement interface, the clip device from the installation device. The attaching of the clip device to the guide member may include preloading, by the installation device (e.g., by complementary portions of the clip engagement interface), the biasing force of the moveable member of the clip device.

[0199]

[0188] Fig. 13 shows an exemplary method 1300 of installing a clip device 200, 600 that engages and restricts directional movement of containers 102 stored in a product storage structure 100 at a retail facility. It is generally contemplated that the method 1300 may use some or all of the components described above, such as, for example, components of the clip devices 200, 600 and / or installation devices 500, 1000 described above. At block 1302, an installation device 500, 1000 is utilized for installing one or more clip devices 200, 600 onto one or more guide members 104 of the product storage structure 100. As pointed out above, the installation device 500, 1000 may include a handle, a clip engagement interface configured to detachably couple to one or more clip devices 200, 600 and to couple the one or more clip devices to a guide member, and a shaft interconnecting the handle and the clip engagement interface. At block 1304, the clip engagement interface of the installation device engages (e.g., detachably attaches to) one or more clip devices 200, 600. Optionally, while the clip engagement interface is engaged with a clip device 200, 600, the installation device preloads a biasing force onto a moveable member 202, 602 of the clip device 200, 600. Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373-WO (PCT)

[0200]

[0189] At block 1306, the installation device 500, 1000 inserts one or more clip devices 200, 600 into an installed position onto the guide member 104 such that the installed one or more clip devices 200, 600 engage (e.g., non-detachably attach to) the guide member 104. As pointed out above, with the one or more clip devices 200, 600 installed into their desired locations on the guide member 104, the one or more clip devices 200, 600 are positioned and oriented such that they engage a container 102 when the container 102 is engaged with the guide member 104. As mentioned above, the moveable member 202, 602 of a clip device 200, 600 attached to the guide member 104 may couple to (e.g., interlock with) the container 102 as a result of a surface (e.g., side wall, bottom wall, etc.) of the container 102 exerting an impinging force onto the moveable member 202, 602 against the biasing force naturally exerted by the moveable member 202, 602 by virtue of its construction. With the moveable member 202, 602 of the clip device 200, 600 coupled to the container 102 (see Figs. 4, 7, and 8), the biasing force of the moveable member 202, 602 of the clip device 200, 600 assists the moveable member 202,602 of the clip device 200, 600 to restrict the directional movement of the container 102 while the container 102 is engaged with the moveable member 202, 602 and the guide member 104.

[0201]

[0190] At block 1308 of the exemplary method 1300, the clip engagement interface of the installation device 500, 1000 disengages from the one or more clip devices 200, 600. As mentioned above, this disengagement of the clip engagement interface from a clip device 200, 600 may occur as a result of a user engaging a movable actuator (e.g., a switch, button, etc.) on the installation device 500, 1000 although, this disengagement of the clip engagement interface from a clip device 200, 600 may occur automatically in response to the clip device 200, 600 coupling to the guide member 104, or in response to movement of the installation device 500, 1000 in a direction away from the installed clip device 200, 600 and the guide member 104. After disengaging from the at least one clip device 200, 600, the installation device 500, 600 may be used to insert a new clip device 200, 600 into place with a guide member 104.

[0202]

[0191] It should be understood that the foregoing description is only illustrative of the present disclosure. Various alternatives and modifications can be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the present disclosure. Accordingly, the present disclosure is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variances that fall within the scope of any claims appended hereto. Further, the mere fact that different features are recited in mutually different Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373-WO (PCT) dependent or independent claims does not indicate that a combination of these features cannot be advantageously used, such a combination remaining within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0203]

[0192] What is claimed is:

Claims

Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)CLAIMS1. A system for engaging and restricting movement of containers stored in a product storage structure at a retail facility, the system comprising: at least one guide member coupled to a portion of the product storage structure and configured to engage with and guide the movement of the containers; and at least one clip device configured to couple to the at least one guide member, the at least one clip device including: a moveable member configured to engage a container engaged to the at least one guide member and restrict movement of the container, wherein the moveable member is configured to move under a biasing force.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the container is a tote.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one clip device further comprises at least one coupling member configured to interlock the at least one clip device to the at least one guide member.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein: the at least one guide member includes a first guide member and a second guide member, and wherein the container is positioned between and engages each of the first guide member and the second guide member; and the movement restricted by the at least one clip device is the movement of the container relative to the first guide member and the second guide member.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one clip device is a stand-alone device which is non-detachably coupled to the at least one guide member.

6. The system of claim 1, further comprising an installation device configured to attach the at least one clip device to the at least one guide member, wherein the installation device includes:Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT) a handle; a clip engagement interface configured to detachably couple to the at least one clip device and to couple the at least one clip device to the at least one guide member; and a shaft interconnecting the handle and the clip engagement interface; wherein the installation device is further configured to: engage, via the clip engagement interface, with the at least one clip device; insert the at least one clip device into position such that the at least one clip device engages the at least one guide member; and disengage, via the clip engagement interface, from the at least one clip device.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the at least one clip device further comprises an installation interface configured to interlock with the clip engagement interface of the installation device.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the installation device is further configured to preload the biasing force of the moveable member.

9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one guide member is formed integrally with the at least one clip device such that the at least one clip device is not detachable from the at least one guide member.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one clip device interlocks with a bottom wall of the container or a side wall of the container.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one clip device is configured to, while being attached to one guide member of the at least one guide member, engage with two or more containers simultaneously.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein: the at least one clip device includes two or more clip devices;Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT) the at least one guide member includes two or more guide members configured to couple with the container, the two or more guide members each being coupled with a respective one of the two or more clip devices; and the two or more clip devices engage with the container on opposite ends of the container while the container is coupled with the two or more guide members.

13. A method of engaging and restricting movement of containers stored in a product storage structure at a retail facility, the method comprising: engaging a container with a moveable member of at least one clip device that moves under a biasing force during the engaging, wherein the at least one clip device is connected to at least one guide member, and wherein the at least one guide member is coupled to a portion of the product storage structure and configured to engage with and guide movement of the containers; and restricting movement of the container by the moveable member while the container is engaged to the at least one guide member.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the at least one guide member is formed integrally with the at least one clip device such that the at least one clip device is not detachable from the at least one guide member.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the at least one clip device is a stand-alone device which is non-detachably coupled to the at least one guide member.

16. The method of claim 13, further comprising attaching, by an installation device, the at least one clip device to the at least one guide member.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the installation device includes: a handle; a clip engagement interface configured to detachably couple to the at least one clip device and to couple the at least one clip device to the at least one guide member; and a shaft interconnecting the handle and the clip engagement interface;Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT) wherein the attaching the at least one clip device further comprises: engaging, by the clip engagement interface, the at least one clip device with the installation device; inserting, by the installation device, the at least one clip device into position with the at least one guide member such that the at least one clip device engages the at least one guide member; and disengaging, by the clip engagement interface, the at least one clip device from the installation device.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the attaching the at least one clip device further comprises preloading, by the installation device, the biasing force of the moveable member.

19. A method of installing a clip device that engages and restricts movement of containers stored in a product storage structure at a retail facility, the method comprising: utilizing an installation device for installing at least one clip device, wherein the installation device includes: a handle; a clip engagement interface configured to detachably couple to the at least one clip device and to couple the at least one clip device to at least one guide member; and a shaft interconnecting the handle and the clip engagement interface; engaging, by the clip engagement interface, the at least one clip device with the installation device; inserting, by the installation device, the at least one clip device into position with the at least one guide member such that the at least one clip device engages the at least one guide member; and disengaging, by the clip engagement interface, the at least one clip device from the installation device; wherein the at least one clip device is configured to engage with a container while the container is engaged with the at least one guide member.Aty. Docket No. 1127P017373- WO (PCT)20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: preloading, by the installation device, a biasing force of a moveable member of the clip device; wherein the moveable member is configured to restrict movement of the container while the container is engaged with the at least one guide member.

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