Sorting, Swapping, and Organizing Objects on Transfer Ball Grids

摘要

An approach is provided to sort objects on a surface of vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules that are controlled by processors. A request to sort the plurality of objects in a horizontal direction is received with each of the objects is assigned a sort position. Sets of the vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules are selected. The vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules are arranged in a grid formation on the surface, with each of the sets of selected transfer modules being underneath a different object. The sets of selected transfer modules are vertically adjusted causing each of the objects to move independently from the other objects while avoiding the other objects in two or more dimensions formed on the surface. The result of the movement is that each of the objects is moved to a position respective of the other objects according to each object's respective sort position.

主权项

1. A method, implemented by an information handling system that includes one or more processors and a memory, that sorts a plurality of objects on a surface of vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules controlled by the processors, the method comprising:
receiving a request to sort the plurality of objects in a horizontal direction, wherein each of the plurality of objects is assigned a sort position; selecting a plurality of sets of vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules from the plurality of vertically-adjustable low friction transfer modules that are arranged in a grid formation on the surface, wherein each of the sets of transfer modules are underneath a different one of the plurality of objects; and vertically adjusting the plurality of sets of transfer modules causing each of the plurality of objects to move independently from the other objects while avoiding the other objects in two or more dimensions formed on the surface so that each of the plurality of objects is moved to a position respective of the other objects according to each objects' respective sort position.