Patent ID: 8286779
Filing Date: 2012-10-16
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. A vertically accumulating storage and retrieval apparatus comprising: a first plurality of substantially vertically spaced shelf assemblies supported by support structure; and a second plurality of substantially vertically spaced shelf assemblies supported by support structure, each of said shelf assemblies including: a shelf tray for receiving, storing, and discharging containers, the shelf trays of the first plurality of shelf assemblies being substantially staggered vertically relative to the shelf trays of the second plurality of shelf assemblies, with free ends of the shelf trays of each plurality of shelf assemblies facing the free ends of the other plurality of shelf assemblies, each shelf tray being mounted to its respective vertical support for pivotal movement between an upwardly tilted receiving position and a downwardly tilted discharge position; spring biasing structure for urging the shelf tray to the receiving position; and a transfer control operatively connected to the shelf tray and having a lock position retaining the shelf tray when a shelf tray of a next lower shelf assembly is not prepared to receive a container, and a release position allowing the shelf tray to move to the discharge position under the weight of a container disposed on said shelf tray when the shelf tray of the next lower shelf assembly is prepared to receive a container.