Patent Publication Number: US-2023159197-A1

Title: Turntable system

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     The delivery of products to stores from distribution centers has many steps that are subject to errors and inefficiencies. 
     For example, the products may be cases of beverage containers (e.g. cartons of cans and beverage crates containing bottles or cans, etc). There are many different permutations of flavors, sizes, and types of beverage containers delivered to each store. When building pallets, missing or mis-picked product can account for significant additional operating costs. 
     In some implementations, stretch wrap is wrapped around a loaded pallet to keep the items stacked stably thereon. The loaded pallet may be placed on a turntable and rotated while the stretch wrap is wrapped around the items on the pallet. This takes some time and occupies valuable space in the warehouse. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present application provides several embodiments of turntable systems that can be used for validation of loaded pallets, wrapping loaded pallets with stretch wrap, or both. In some embodiments, a first ramp leads up to the turntable and a second ramp leads down from the turntable on the opposite side. In other embodiments, at least two turntables are positioned adjacent one another, optionally with a bridge surface connecting them so that a pallet lift can be driven from one turntable to the other to place one pallet on one turntable and another pallet on the other turntable according to a method disclosed herein. A validation system without a turntable includes a plurality of cameras about a periphery of a platform weight sensor. 
     In some embodiments, a turntable system includes a first turntable capable of supporting a loaded pallet and a second turntable capable of supporting a loaded pallet. The second turntable is adjacent the first turntable. A support surface is between the first turntable and the second turntable. The support surface is substantially flush with an upper surface of the first turntable and an upper surface of the second turntable. 
     A first camera may be directed toward the first turntable and a second camera may be directed to the second turntable. A stretch wrapper dispenser may be mounted adjacent the first turntable. A ramp may be positioned to lead up to the first turntable. 
     The system may further include an overhead gantry. The overhead gantry may extend between the first turntable and the second turntable. At least one light may be mounted to the overhead gantry. A first stretch wrapper dispenser may be positioned adjacent the first turntable and a first camera may be directed toward the first turntable, such that the first turntable is between the first stretch wrapper dispenser and the first camera. 
     The overhead gantry may include a horizontal portion extending between the first turntable and the second turntable and a vertical support supporting the horizontal portion. The first camera may be mounted to the vertical support. 
     A second stretch wrapper dispenser may be adjacent the second turntable and a second camera may be directed toward the second turntable, such that the second turntable is between the second stretch wrapper dispenser and the second camera. 
     According to another embodiment, a validation system includes a platform weight sensor. A plurality of cameras are mounted about a periphery of the platform weight sensor and directed toward an area above the platform weight sensor. At least one computer receives images from the plurality of cameras and weight information from the platform weight sensor. 
     The computer may be programmed to analyze the images and identify a plurality of SKUs associated with a stacked plurality of items in the images. The computer may include a machine learning model trained on images of packages of beverage containers. 
     The validation system may further include a bullpen surrounding the platform weight sensor, with the plurality of cameras mounted to the bullpen. The plurality of cameras may include four cameras, one to capture each side of the loaded pallet. 
     The bullpen may include a gate pivotable between an open position and a closed position and one of the cameras may be mounted to the gate. 
     According to several embodiments, a turntable system includes a turntable including a weight sensor, a first ramp leading up to the turntable, and a second ramp leading down from the turntable. 
     The turntable system may include at least one camera positioned adjacent the turntable. 
     The turntable system may include a stretch wrapper dispenser mounted adjacent the turntable. 
     The turntable may include a hard stop preventing damage to the weight sensor caused by driving over the turntable with a pallet lift. 
     A method of handling loaded pallets includes carrying a first loaded pallet and a second loaded pallet over a first turntable and then placing the second loaded pallet on a second turntable. Then, the first loaded pallet is placed on the first turntable. The second loaded pallet is rotated on the second turntable and the first loaded pallet is rotated on the first turntable. 
     The method may include subsequently lifting the second loaded pallet and then lifting the first loaded pallet. 
     The method may further include subsequently carrying the first loaded pallet and the second loaded pallet over the second turntable. 
     In the method, the first loaded pallet and the second loaded pallet may be carried on tines, such as tines of a pallet lift (walkie-rider, pallet sled, pallet jack, etc) and the first loaded pallet and the second loaded pallet may be lifted with tines. 
     The method may include placing a wrap around the second loaded pallet during rotation. 
     The method may include imaging the second loaded pallet during rotation. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a schematic view of a delivery system. 
         FIG.  2    is a flowchart of one method for delivering items. 
         FIG.  3    shows an example loading station of the delivery system of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  4    shows an example validation station of the delivery system of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  5    is another view of the example validation system of  FIG.  3    with a loaded pallet thereon. 
         FIG.  6    shows the validation system of  FIG.  5    in the process of wrapping a loaded pallet. 
         FIG.  7    shows the validation system of  FIG.  5    upon a successful validation. 
         FIG.  8    shows the validation system of  FIG.  5    upon a unsuccessful validation. 
         FIG.  9    shows the loaded pallet at a QC station after an unsuccessful validation. 
         FIG.  10    shows the loaded pallet of  FIG.  5    being wrapped by a robo wrapper. 
         FIG.  11    shows the loaded pallet of  FIG.  5    being wrapped manually. 
         FIG.  12    shows a validation station according to another embodiment. 
         FIG.  13    is a rear perspective view of the validation station of  FIG.  12   . 
         FIG.  14    shows an operator approaching the validation station of  FIG.  12    with a loaded pallet. 
         FIG.  15    shows the validation station lifting the gate in response to the operator approach. 
         FIG.  16    shows the operator placing the loaded pallet on the platform weight sensor of the validation station of  FIG.  12   . 
         FIG.  17    shows the gate of the validation station of  FIG.  16    closed. 
         FIG.  18    is a top view of the validation station of  FIG.  17    indicating the four cameras each taking a picture of the loaded pallet. 
         FIG.  19    shows the validation station indicating a successful validation. 
         FIG.  20    shows the gate of the validation station opening automatically after successful validation. 
         FIG.  21    shows an unsuccessful validation by the validation station of  FIG.  12   . 
         FIG.  22    shows the operator taking the loaded pallet to a QC station after an unsuccessful validation. 
         FIG.  23    shows the loaded pallet being wrapped by a robo wrapper after validation or correction. 
         FIG.  24    shows the loaded pallet being manually wrapped after validation or correction. 
         FIG.  25    shows a tandem validation/wrapping station according to another embodiment. 
         FIG.  26    shows two half-pallets supported on a walkie-rider to be carried to the station of  FIG.  25   . 
         FIG.  27    shows an alternate validation/wrapping station. 
         FIG.  28    shows a modular turntable system according to another embodiment. 
         FIG.  29    shows the modular turntable system of  FIG.  28    with the fences removed for illustration. 
         FIG.  30    shows the modular turntable system of  FIG.  28    reconfigured to use a single turntable. 
         FIG.  31    shows an example turntable support and frame. 
         FIG.  32    shows a schematic/section view through the turntable of  FIG.  31   . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG.  1    is a high-level view of a delivery system  10  including one or more distribution centers  12 , a central server  14  (e.g. cloud computer), and a plurality of stores  16 . A plurality of trucks  18  or other delivery vehicles each transport the products  20  on pallets  22  from one of the distribution centers  12  to a plurality of stores  16 . Each truck  18  carries a plurality of pallets  22  which may be half pallets, each loaded with a plurality of goods  20  for delivery to one of the stores  16 . A wheeled sled  24  is on each truck  18  to facilitate delivery of one of more pallets  22  of goods  20  to each store  16 . Generally, the goods  20  could be loaded on the half pallets  22 , full-size pallets, carts, or hand carts, or dollies—all considered “platforms” herein. 
     Each distribution center  12  includes one or more pick stations  30  and one or more validation stations  32 . Each distribution center  12  includes one or more loading stations  34 , such as a loading dock for loading the trucks  18 . 
     Each distribution center  12  may have a plurality of loading stations  34 . Each distribution center  12  includes a DC computer  26 . The DC computer  26  receives orders  60  from the stores  16  and communicates with the central server  14 . Each DC computer  26  receives orders and generates pick sheets  64 , each of which contains a list and quantity of SKUs. Alternatively, the orders  60  can be sent from the DC computer  26  to the central server  14  for generation of the pick sheets  64 , which are synced back to the DC computer  26 . 
     Some or all of the distribution centers  12  may include a training station  28  for generating image information and other information about new products  20  which can be transmitted to the central server  14  for analysis and future use. 
     The central server  14  may include a plurality of distribution center accounts  40 , including DC 1 -DCn, each associated with a distribution center  12 . Each DC account  40  includes a plurality of store accounts  42 , including store  1 -store n. The orders  60  and pick sheets  64  for each store are stored in the associated store account  42 . The central server  14  further includes one or more machine learning models trained based upon a plurality of SKU files  44 , including SKU  1 -SKUn. The models are periodically synced to the DC computers  26 . 
     The SKU files  44  each contain information for a SKU. A “SKU” may be a single variation of a product that is available from the distribution center  12  and can be delivered to one of the stores  16 . Each product in the distribution center  12  is associated with one SKU. For example, each SKU may be associated with a particular number of containers (e.g. 12-pack) in a particular form (e.g. can v bottle) of a particular size (e.g. 24 ounces), with particular packaging (cardboard vs reusuable plastic crate, etc), and containing a particular beverage. This information is contained in each SKU file  44  along with the name of the product, a description of the product, dimensions of the product, and image information for the product. Each SKU file  44  may also include the weight of the product. In general, all the SKU files  44  including their associated image information, may be generated through the training module  28 . The machine learning models are trained based upon the image information for the SKUs. 
     Referring also to the flowchart in  FIG.  2   , an order  60  may be received from a store  16  in step  150 . As an example, an order  60  may be placed by a store employee using an app or mobile device  52 . The order  60  is sent to the distribution center computer  26  (or alternatively to the server  14 , and then relayed to the proper (e.g. closest) distribution center computer  26 ). The distribution center computer  26  analyzes the order  60  and creates a pick sheet  64  associated with that order  60  in step  152 . The pick sheet  64  assigns each of the SKUs (including the quantity of each SKU) from the order. The pick sheet  64  specifies how many pallets  22  will be necessary for that order (as determined by the DC computer  26 ). The DC computer  26  may also determine which SKUs should be loaded near one another on the same pallet  22 , or if more than one pallet  22  will be required, which SKUs should be loaded on the same pallet  22 . 
       FIG.  3    shows a portion of an example pick station  30  of  FIG.  1   . Referring to  FIGS.  1  and  3   , workers at the distribution center read the palled id (e.g. via rfid, barcode, etc) on the pallet(s)  22  on a pallet jack  24   a , such as with a mobile device or a reader on the pallet jack  24   a . Shelves may contain a variety of items  20  for each SKU, such as first product  20   a  of a first SKU and a second product  20   b  of a second SKU (collectively “products  20 ”). In practice, there will be products associated with hundreds or thousands of different SKUs. A worker reading a computer screen or mobile device screen displaying from the pick sheet  64  retrieves each product  20  and places that product  20  on one of the pallets  22 , which may be as instructed by the computer screen or mobile device screen. Alternatively, the pallet  22  may be loaded by automated handling equipment. Workers place items  20  on the pallets  22  according to the pick sheets  64  and the pallet ids are reported to the DC computer  26  in step  154 . 
     After the two pallets  22  are loaded, the next pallet  22  (or two pallets  22 ) is brought to the pick station  30 , until all of the SKUs required by the pick sheet  64  are loaded onto as many pallets  22  as required by that pick sheet  64 . Pallets  22  are then loaded for the next pick sheet  64 . The DC computer  26  records the pallet ids of the pallet(s)  22  that have been loaded with particular SKUs for each pick sheet  64 . The pick sheet  64  may associate each pallet id with each SKU. 
     After being loaded, each loaded pallet  22  is validated at the validation station  32 , which may be adjacent to or part of the pick station  30 . As will be described in more detail below, at least one still image, and preferably four still images, of the products  20  on the pallet  22  is taken at the validation station  32  in step  156  of  FIG.  2   . Preferably a still image of each of the four sides of the loaded pallet  22  is taken. The pallet id of the pallet  22  is also read. The images are analyzed (for example, with the machine learning models) to determine the SKUs of the products  20  that are currently on the identified pallet  22  in step  158 . The SKUs of the products  20  on the pallet  22  are compared to the pick sheet  64  by the DC computer  26  in step  160 , to ensure that all the SKUs associated with the pallet id of the pallet  22  on the pick sheet  64  are present on the correct pallet  22 , and that no additional SKUs are present. 
       FIGS.  4  to  11    show an example validation station that could be used in the system of  FIG.  1   . Referring to  FIG.  4   , the validation station may include a turntable  67  with at least one camera  68  and rfid reader  70  (and/or barcode reader) mounted adjacent thereto. Lights  65  are directed toward the turntable  67 . A first ramp  76  may lead from the floor to the turntable  67  and a second ramp  77  may lead from the turntable  67  to the floor. A weight sensor may be incorporated into the turntable  67 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  5   , the operator may place one loaded pallet  22  on the turntable  67  and another on or near the turntable  67 , such as on the ramp  76 . Referring to  FIG.  6   , the operator uses a tablet (or other device with UI) to start the validation. The camera  68  takes at least one image of the loaded pallet  22  while the turntable  67  is rotating the loaded pallet  22 . Alternatively, the camera  68  can be rotated around the loaded pallet  22 . Again, preferably four still images are taken, one of each side of the loaded pallet  22 . 
     The rfid reader  70  (or barcode reader, or the like) reads the pallet id (a unique serial number) from the pallet  22 . The validation station  32  includes a local computer  74  in communication with the camera  68 , rfid reader  70  and weight sensor. The computer  74  controls the turntable  67  and lights  65 . The computer  74  can communicate with the DC computer  26  (and/or server  14 ) via a wireless network card. The image(s) and the pallet id are sent to the server  14  via the network and associated with the pick list  64  ( FIG.  1   ). The total weight of the expected products  20  (according to the pick list  64 ) and pallet  22  can be compared to the measured weight on the turntable  67  for confirmation. 
     Referring to  FIG.  7   , if the loaded pallet  22  is validated successfully, the tablet so indicates. The operator picks up the pallet  22  and is directed to the correct dock door by the tablet. 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   , if the validation station detects an error in the loaded pallet  22 , an alert is generated, such as via the tablet. The operator is directed (such as by the tablet) to take the pallet  22  to a QC station  33  for a QC check. 
     In  FIG.  9   , the operator places the pallet  22  at the QC station  33  for physical inspection. A tablet at the QC station  33  displays the necessary information to the audit operator, e.g. which SKUs are missing and/or which SKUs are present on the pallet  22  but should not be. 
     In  FIG.  10   , after validation or after correction in the QC station  33 , the pallet  22  can be wrapped with a robo wrapper  66 . Alternatively, as shown in  FIG.  11   , the pallet  22  can be wrapped manually. 
       FIGS.  12  to  24    show another embodiment of a validation station. In  FIGS.  12  and  13   , the validation station includes a bullpen  69  having a gate  71  surrounding a platform weight sensor  104  (e.g. a platform supported by load cells). Four cameras  68  are mounted to the bullpen  69 , one on each of the three sides of the bullpen  69  and one on the gate  71 . The gate  71  may be configured to open upon sufficient weight on a platform  110  just outside the gate  71 . Again, the computer  74  receives the images from the cameras  68  and the weight from the platform weight sensor  104 . The computer  74  is also programmed to control the gate  71  as described herein. 
     Referring to  FIG.  14   , when the operator pulls up onto the platform  110  adjacent the bullpen  69  with the loaded pallet  22  on the lift, the gate  71  opens automatically, as shown in  FIG.  15   . The computer  74  receives a signal from the platform  110  indicating weight on the platform  110  and generates a signal causing the gate  71  to open. 
     Referring to  FIG.  16   , the operator places the pallet  22  on the platform weight sensor  104  inside the bullpen  69  and leaves the bullpen  69 . The gate  71  closes ( FIG.  17   ). 
     In  FIG.  18   , the four cameras  68  each take an image of one side of the loaded pallet  22 , which could happen simultaneously or rapidly in sequence. The weight sensor  104  measures the weight of the loaded pallet  22 . The computer  74  receives the four images and the weight measurement. The images are evaluated by using the machine learning models (for example) to identify the SKUs associated with every item on the pallet  22 , as described above. The identified SKUs are compared to the expected SKUs from the pick list. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  19  and  20   , if the loaded pallet  22  is validated, then the gate  71  opens automatically, and a tablet indicates validation and the tablet indicates the dock door to which the operator should bring the loaded pallet  22 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  21  and  22   , if validation fails, the gate  71  again opens automatically. The tablet indicates failure and instructs the operator to take the pallet  22  to the QC station  33 . 
     After the pallet  22  is validated (or corrected at QC station  33 ), the pallet  22  can be wrapped with a robo wrapper  66  ( FIG.  23   ) or manually ( FIG.  24   ). 
     A tandem turntable system  210  is shown in  FIG.  25    including first and second wrapping/validation stations  232  that could be used in the system  10  of  FIG.  1   . Each station  232  may perform wrapping and/or verification of a pallet  22  loaded with items  20 . Each station  232  includes a turntable  267  on which the loaded pallet  22  can be placed for wrapping and/or verification. 
     Each station  232  further includes an associated tower structure  216  adjacent the turntable  267 . Again, the tower structure  216  may provide the wrapping function in which it dispenses stretch wrap  218  about the products on the half pallet  22  as the half pallet  22  is rotated by the turntable  267 . The tower structure  216  may alternatively provide the validation function via at least one camera  268  where it images the loaded half-pallet (and the items thereon) as it is rotated by the turntable  267 . Optionally, each tower structure  216  provides both functions. An RFID reader  270  may be mounted near (or on) the tower structure  216  for reading an RFID tag on the half-pallet  22  on the associated turntable  267 . Each tower structure  216  has an associated computer receiving images from the at least one camera  268  and receiving signals from the RFID reader  270 . The computer also controls the turntable  267 . 
     In  FIG.  25   , there is a ramp  230  leading to the first turntable  267  and a bridge  280  between the first turntable  267  and the second turntable  267 . The bridge  280  provides a support surface substantially flush with upper surfaces of the first turntable  267  and the second turntable  267 . Each turntable  267  may also include a weight sensor  215  that weighs the loaded pallet  22  on the turntable  267  for validation. 
     Referring to  FIG.  26   , a walkie-rider  224  carries two half-pallets  22  (shown empty but they would be loaded) on its tines  284 , one half-pallet  22  in front of the other. Alternatively, a pallet lift, pallet sled, or pallet jack could be used. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  25  and  26   , the user can drive the walkie-rider  224  up the ramp  230 , across the first turntable  267 , across (or onto) the bridge  280  and leave the outer loaded half-pallet  22  on the second turntable  267 . Then the user can reverse the walkie-rider  224  until it is in a position to leave the inner loaded half-pallet  22  on the first turntable  267 . Then the walkie-rider  224  is further reversed down the ramp  230  out of the way. Both wrapping/validation stations  232  can be started after the inner half-pallet  22  is placed on the first turntable  267 . Alternatively, the second wrapping/validation station  232  can be started as soon as the walkie-rider  224  reverses away from the second turntable  267 , and the first wrapping/validation station  232  can be started subsequently, as soon as the walkie-rider  224  reverses away from the first turntable  267 . This alternative may be advantageous if the outer loaded pallet  22  on the second turntable  267  is larger and takes longer to wrap and/or might take longer to validate. The stations  232  may be initiated automatically by the computer associated with each station  232  upon detection that the walkie-rider  224  has moved off the associated turntable  267 , e.g. via the camera  268 . Alternatively, the computer could detect the placement of the loaded pallet  22  via the weight sensor  215  and then wait a predetermined period of time or wait until the camera detects that the walkie-rider  224  has moved away before initiating the validation and/or wrapping sequence. Alternatively, the user can initiate validation and/or wrapping via a signal from a tablet on the walkie-rider  224  or buttons on the stations  232   
     When both loaded pallets  22  are wrapped and/or completed validation, the turntables  267  ensure that the pallets  22  are oriented perpendicularly to the ramp  230 . For example, the computer onboard (or adjacent) each tower  216  may use the camera  268  to verify the orientation of the pallet  22  and power the turntable  267  so that the pallet  22  is perpendicular to the ramp for easy picking by the walkie-rider  224 . Alternatively, the computer onboard each tower  216  may ensure that the associated turntable  267  returns to its initial rotational position. The walkie-rider  224  is driven up the ramp  230  to lift the inner loaded pallet  22 , then driven across the first turntable  267 , then onto (or across) the bridge  280  to lift the outer loaded pallet  22 . The walkie-rider  224  then reverses from the bridge  280 , across the first turntable  267 , then down the ramp  230  and moves the loaded, wrapped/validated half-pallets  22  to the next station (QA or loading). 
       FIG.  27    shows an alternate system  210   a , which is identical to the system  210  of  FIG.  26   , but also includes a ramp  282  adjacent from the second turntable  267 . The user can drive the walkie-rider  224  up the ramp  230 , across the first turntable  267 , across (or onto) the bridge  280  and leave the outer loaded half-pallet  22  on the second turntable  267 . Then the user can reverse the walkie-rider  224  until it is in a position to leave the inner loaded half-pallet  22  on the first turntable  267 . Then the walkie-rider  224  is further reversed down the ramp  230  out of the way. When both loaded pallets  22  are wrapped and/or completed validation, the walkie-rider  224  is driven up the ramp  230  to lift the inner loaded pallet  22 , then across the first turntable  267 , then onto (or across) the bridge  280  to lift the outer loaded pallet  22 . The walkie-rider  224  then continues across the second turntable  267 , down the ramp  282  and moves the loaded, wrapped/validated half-pallets  22  to the next station (QA or loading). 
     Additionally, both turntables  267  are always independently accessible via one of the ramps  230 ,  282 . For example, full-size pallets could be carried up each of the ramps  230 ,  282  by different walkie-riders  224  such that the two stations  232  could be used independently. 
     In either system  210  or  210   a , the tandem turntables  267  could have a notification system which communicates to operators which turntable may be fastest or readily available upon arrival in order to reduce wait times when all turntables are in use. 
     Optionally, the tandem turntables could have a large LCD screen showing wait times per turntable station. In another embodiment the operator may be able to receive this information from a device carried with the operator or located on the operator&#39;s equipment. 
     The tandem turntables  267  could be controlled by a single interface which could be within reach of the operator while the operator remains on a piece of equipment. This could increase throughput by saving time typically spent dismounting a piece of equipment and walking over to the interface. 
     Optionally, the operator may be able to control the turntables from a device that is carried by the operator or that is located on the operator&#39;s equipment, such as a tablet. 
     The bridge  280  is useful in installations as shown above where the turntables  267  are placed on the floor and therefore have upper support surfaces that are elevated relative to the surrounding floor. However, as another alternative, the turntables  267  may be used in tandem by installing them flush with the warehouse floor. This may be done to reduce the required space needed to install and use tandem turntables  267 . In this embodiment there is no need for a bridge or entrance/exit ramps and the pallets  22  may be accessed from any angle. 
     The turntables  267 , ramps  230 ,  234  and bridges  280  could be modular so that they may be separated and used independently from each other, or added together in configurations to suit the number of pallets  22  that are on a lift (e.g. one, two or more than two). 
     Certain times of the year a warehouse may require higher full-size single pallet throughput and it may be advantageous to use the turntables independently, but other times of the year the need for higher throughput of half-pallets may exist and it may be advantageous to use the turntables in tandem. 
     The tandem turntables  267  could also be used with two full size pallets if the material handling equipment tines are lengthened to suit. 
     The turntable  267  design may have specialized design changes to allow the turntable  267  to withstand being driven over with common material handling equipment used in a warehouse, such as a forklift, electric pallet truck, electric walkie rider and others. 
     In one optional embodiment the turntable  267  may use a hard stop to prevent the turntable  267  from deflecting past a certain point as the turntable  267  is driven over. This could be done to protect load cells used on the turntable  267  or the mechanics which rotate the table  267 . 
     In another embodiment the turntable  267  could use damping features to reduce the impact force caused by a piece of material handling equipment driving over the turntable. 
       FIG.  28    shows a modular turntable system  310  according to another embodiment, which includes the stations  232  of  FIG.  25   . The modular turntable system  310  could be used in the delivery system  10  of  FIG.  1   . Again, each station  232  includes the tower structure  216  and an associated turntable  267 . The ramp  230  leads to a first turntable  267 . The bridge  280  connects the turntables  267 . The second ramp  282  may also be used but is not shown. 
     In this embodiment, a first fence  320  is positioned outward of the tower structures  216 . A second fence  322  is positioned adjacent the turntables  267  such that the turntables  267  and tower structures  216  are between the first fence  320  and the second fence  322 . The fences  320 ,  322  provide protection to the turntables  267  from accidental impacts. The fences  320 ,  322  are made from RF-attenuating material to shield the RFID readers  270  (e.g. on tower structures  216 —not visible in  FIG.  28    but shown in  FIG.  25   ) within the fences  320 ,  322  from any RFIDs outside the fences  320 ,  322 . 
     An overhead gantry  324  includes a vertical portion  328  extending upward from the second fence  320 . A horizontal portion  326  extends from an upper end of the vertical portion  328  over the turntables  267 , preferably centered between the turntables  267  to a cross-bar  330  mounted to the tower structures  216 . Overhead lights  332  are mounted to the horizontal portion  326 . A plurality of cameras  368  (preferably four, although only two are visible in  FIG.  28   ) are mounted to the vertical portion  328  of the overhead gantry  324 . Alternatively, the cameras  368  could be mounted to the second fence  322 . 
     The overhead gantry  324  is physically decoupled from the rest of the system  310  to prevent inadvertent camera vibrations. In this embodiment the overhead gantry  324  is attached directly to the floor. Alternatively, the overhead gantry  324  could be attached to the ceiling. 
     In this embodiment the gantry  324  has a vertical portion  328  with a horizontal portion  326 . In other embodiments the gantry  324  uses a single vertical member, multiple vertical members or a vertical member with a cantilevered horizontal member. 
     Power and signal wiring is run through and protected by the overhead gantry  324 . This prevents tripping hazards and damage to cables on the ground. 
       FIG.  29    shows the system  310  without the fences  320 ,  322  for illustration. As shown, the cameras  368  are mounted in a single location that allows view of both turntables  267  in a tandem location. The views of the cameras  368  may be crossed such that the cameras  268  on the right are directed toward the turntable  267  on the left and vice-versa. In this embodiment the cameras  368  are located at the intersection between two circles circumscribed about the axis of the turntables  267 . In this embodiment the radius of the circle is equal to the mid range of the lens depth of field of the cameras  368 . 
     In another embodiment the cameras  368  could be positioned at various points on the overhead gantry  324 , tower structure  216 , and/or fences  320 ,  322 . They could also be mounted to the floor, walls or ceiling. 
     This strategic positioning of the cameras minimizes the rotations needed to capture all required images and capturing all required images quickly improves the throughput capability. 
     The cameras  368  must be positioned at the correct distance, or the lens will not be able to focus. In this embodiment the camera position is installed on permanent apparatus referenced off the turntable  267 . The value is ease and speed of installation. This also allows for an easily repeatable position of the camera  368 . 
     In another embodiment the permanent apparatus is attached directly to the turntable  267 . In another embodiment a “jig” or template is used to locate the cameras  368 . In another embodiment the floor is marked with a stencil or other means to mark the installation location of the cameras relative to the turntables  267 . In another embodiment the cameras  368  are attached directly to the tower structure  216  (as in the previous embodiments). 
     Integrating the lights, impact protection, RFID attenuation, and HMI into one unit reduces the footprint of the system saving valuable warehouse space. The integration of the HMI allows the operator to control both turntables reducing the total number of steps and increasing throughput. The placement of the HMI could be within reach of the equipment operator while on the equipment so the turntables could be controlled without exiting the equipment. 
     The overhead gantry and integrated fence are designed such that all components are packable on a 48″×96″ pallet. This allows for less expensive shipping and easier installation. 
     Operation of the system  310  is the same as that of  FIG.  25   . If the second ramp  282  is added, then operation of the system  310  can be the same as that of  FIG.  27   . 
     In this embodiment the overhead gantry is coupled and fastened together but in another embodiment it could be welded together on site or slip fit and pinned. 
     In another embodiment the overhead gantry and integrated fences uses a camera and light without a turntable or wrapper for use in identifying contents of a pallet. 
     The turntables, ramps, bridges, integrated fence, and overhead gantry could be modular so that they may be separated and used independently from each other or added together in configurations to suit the number of pallets that are on a lift. 
     Certain times of the year a warehouse may require higher full size single pallet throughput and it may be advantageous to use the turntables independently, but other times of the year the need for higher throughput of half-pallets may exist and it may be advantageous to use the turntables in tandem. 
     The tandem turntables could also be used with two full size pallets if the material handling equipment tines are lengthened to suit. The value of the modular design is the system can be configured to run a single pallet or configured to run two pallets (tandem) to match throughput needs. 
     The system  310  of  FIG.  28    can be reconfigured into the system  310   a  of  FIG.  30    with a single turntable  267 . With only the addition of another overhead gantry  324  and cameras  368 , the other turntable  267  and tower structure  216  could also be used independently. As shown, the first fence  320  of  FIG.  28    is comprised of two first fence sections  320   a  (one shown in  FIG.  30   ) and the second fence  322  of  FIG.  28    is comprised of two second fence sections  322   a  (one shown in  FIG.  30   ). 
     The turntables  67  and turntables  267  in the various embodiments above preferably are capable of withstanding being driven over by the walkie-rider  224  or other pallet lifts. A turntable  267  is shown in  FIG.  31    with the table removed. The turntables  67  would be identical. The table support  290  is connected to a frame  293  via a plurality of load cells  292 , in this example, three. The load cells  292  suspend the table support  290  and are used to measure the weight of the load upon the turntable. Generally, load cells  292  measure deflection (or strain) and compute weight. The challenge with driving over the turntable  267  is the weight of the equipment (eg. 3000 lb) and shock loads that the equipment generates during use can overload and damage the load cells  292 . Oversized load cells could be used but measurement precision would be lost. 
       FIG.  32    is a partial section/schematic view through a portion of the turntable  267  of  FIG.  31    adjacent one of the load cells  292 . The load cell  292  is mounted between a brace  294  on the table support  290  and a brace  295  on the frame  293 . The table support  290  deflects downward under load. In this embodiment, in order to prevent deflection past the rated load of the load cells  292  and maintain measurement precision, hard stops  296  are located at a specific height underneath the table support  290 , and the displacement is limited so that overloading the load cells  292  is not possible, but the weight range for normal measuring (eg. 5-2000 lb) is preserved and functions reliably. The hard stops  296  may be mounted to the frame  293  as shown or may be mounted to the floor beneath the table support  290 . 
     However the image(s) of the loaded pallet  22  are collected, the image(s) are then analyzed to determine the SKU of every item  20  on the pallet  22  in step  158  ( FIG.  2   ). Any method may be used to identify the SKUs associated with every item on the pallet  22 . A few examples are described herein. For example, the images and dimensions of all sides of every possible product, including multiple versions of each SKU, if applicable, are stored in the server  14 . If multiple still images or video are collected, then the known dimensions of the pallet  22  and the items  20  are used to ensure that every item  20  is counted once and only once. 
     Each SKU has an associated package type and an associated brand. The package type is detected first and then the brand is classified to identify what SKU is associated with that product. The package type describes the packaging of the SKU. For example 160Z_CN_1_24 is a package type to describe 16 ounce cans with 24 grouped together in 1 case. A case represents the sellable unit that a store can purchase from the manufacturer. The brand is the flavor of the beverage and is marketed separately for each flavor. For example, Pepsi, Pepsi Wild Cherry and Mountain Dew are all “brands.” Machine learning may be used to detect all the package faces on the four pallet faces. 
     The package type of each item  20  is identified by the machine learning model. Other packaging types include reusable beverage crate, corrugated tray with translucent plastic wrap, or fully enclosed cardboard or paperboard box. 
     After determining all of the package types and brands for each package on the pallet that information can be used to look up SKU most likely associated with each item  20 . 
     After individual items  20  are identified on each of the four sides of the loaded pallet  22 , based upon the known dimensions of the items  20  and pallet  22 , duplicates are removed, i.e. it is determined which items are visible from more than one side and appear in more than one image. If some items are identified with less confidence from one side, but appear in another image where they are identified with more confidence, the identification with more confidence is used. 
     For example, if the pallet  22  is a half pallet, its dimensions would be approximately 40 to approximately 48 inches by approximately 20 to approximately 24 inches, including the metric 800 mm×600 mm Standard size beverage crates, beverage cartons, and wrapped corrugated trays would all be visible from at least one side, most would be visible from at least two sides, and some would be visible on three sides. 
     If the pallet  22  is a full-size pallet (e.g. approximately  48  inches by approximately 40 inches, or 800 mm by 1200 mm), most products would be visible from one or two sides, but there may be some products that are not visible from any of the sides. The dimensions and weight of the hidden products can be determined as a rough comparison against the pick list. Optionally, stored images (from the SKU files) of SKUs not matched with visible products can be displayed to the user, who could verify the presence of the hidden products manually. 
     The computer vision-generated SKU count for that specific pallet  22  is compared against the pick list  64  to ensure the pallet  22  is built correctly. This may be done prior to the loaded pallet  22  being wrapped thus preventing unwrapping of the pallet  22  to audit and correct. If the built pallet  22  does not match the pick list  64  ( FIG.  2   , step  162 ), the missing or wrong SKUs are indicated to the worker (step  164 ), e.g. via a display. Then the worker can correct the items  20  on the pallet  22  (step  166 ) and reinitiate the validation (i.e. initiate new images in step  156 ) or wrap the loaded pallet in step  168 . 
     If the loaded pallet  22  is confirmed, positive feedback is given to the worker, who then continues wrapping the loaded pallet  22  (step  168 ). The worker then moves the validated loaded pallet  22  to the loading station  34  (step  170 ). After the loaded pallet  22  has been validated, it is moved to a loading station  34  ( FIG.  1   ). 
     Referring to  FIG.  1   , the loaded truck  18  carries a hand truck or pallet sled  24 , for moving the loaded pallets  22  off of the truck  18  and into the stores  16  ( FIG.  2   , step  172 ). The driver has a mobile device  50  which receives an optimized route from the distribution center computer  26  or central server  14 . The driver follows the route to each of the plurality of stores  16  for which the truck  18  contains loaded pallets  22 . 
     At each store  16  the driver&#39;s mobile device  50  indicates which of the loaded pallets  22  (based upon their pallet ids) are to be delivered to the store  16  (as verified by gps on the mobile device  50 ). The driver verifies the correct pallet(s) for that location with the mobile device  50  that checks the pallet id (rfid, barcode, etc). The driver moves the loaded pallet(s)  22  into the store  16  with the pallet sled  24 . 
     In accordance with the provisions of the patent statutes and jurisprudence, exemplary configurations described above are considered to represent preferred embodiments of the inventions. However, it should be noted that the inventions can be practiced otherwise than as specifically illustrated and described without departing from its spirit or scope. Alphanumeric identifiers on method steps are solely for ease in reference in dependent claims and such identifiers by themselves do not signify a required sequence of performance, unless otherwise explicitly specified.