Patent ID: 6149370
Filing Date: 2000-11-21
Classification: B60P

Abstract:
An automated latching and release system adapted for use with a train of interconnected wheeled carts of the type configured for materials handling and a vehicle having a cart-carrying area with a fore section and an aft section for cart loading and unloading, the vehicle further having a floor and a front wall, the system comprising:a latching mechanism mounted in the fore section of the vehicle adjacent the front wall, said mechanism including a latch member which has a first position in wherein the member physically engages with a forwardmost cart so as to retain them forwardmost cart in a transport position and a second position wherein the member physically disengages from the forwardmost cart so as to release the forwardmost cart from the transport position, the latching mechanism operable to move the member between the first and second positions; anda switch operable to control said latching mechanism to move the latch member from the first position to the second position to release the forwardmost cart from the transport position so that it may be unloaded from the vehicle,the switch being disposed in the aft section of the vehicle, physically remote from the latching mechanism, thereby enabling a user to release the forwardmost cart without having to manipulate the latch member directly.