| 摘要 |
A storage and retrieval system includes sat least two pairs of two confrontingly opposed, columnar arrays. Each of the pairs of columnar arrays defines a plurality of vertically spaced tray-receiving recesses. One or more platforms are provided, each vertically displaceable along and between each of the pairs of arrays. Each platform carries an extraction device operable for withdrawing a selected tray from an array recess onto the platform, and for inserting a tray supported on the platform into a vacant recess in either array. The extraction device includes a retractable/extendable pin mounted in a housing configured in a manner to provide engagement with an aperture on a side face of one of the bins to create a bin-engaged state when engaged and a bin-disengaged state when disengaged. Each device has an extended cam-follower portion that rides in a cam. As the endless chains travel in a chain pattern, the extractor assembly is driven along the chain pattern and the extended cam-follower portion cammingly engages the cam, in a manner such that the retractable/extendable pin is caused to move linearly in a pin plane orthogonal to a chain plane (created by the chain pattern) between a retracted and extended position, thereby moving from the bin-engaged state in the extended position to a bin-disengaged state in the retracted position. The pins releasably engage, through rotation of the chains and action of the cam, into apertures in the bins. As a consequence of the configuration, bins or trays can be stacked more tightly in the vertical direction. The insertion/extraction device can be used in many different types of automated storage and retrieval systems. Also provided is tandem operation of two platforms using a single control system.
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