Patent Description:
Store employees must work in a timely and efficient manner to scan, stock, and organize their inventory, shelves, and stores. They carry portable barcode readers and/or label printers. Scanning out of stock items, returning to the backroom, pulling the items, putting the items out on display, and then scanning those items is very time consuming, while potentially disruptive to the customer experience.

Having a mobile battery powered workstation cart with the computer, printer, labels, bags, bins, baskets, totes, etc. in the form of a shopping cart or flatbed type of cart would be very desirable to increase order fulfillment efficiency. Having the bags, bins, totes, or baskets located on the powered workstation cart will aid in end-to-end order fulfillment (the bags will be used to gather the ordered items and/or then can be given to the customer) and will help eliminate the redundant packing and unpacking process by store employees. Currently, powered workstation carts used by stores are very bulky, difficult to maneuver, and don't contain a modular area for bags, totes, or baskets. An example of a current workstation cart is shown in <FIG> for purposes of comparison.

Patent Application Publication No. <CIT> ("Ditges") is directed toward a method of collecting groceries to full multiple orders simultaneously which includes a wheeled cart. This cart comprises multiple shelves and bag holders for storage of collected groceries. The cart also has electronics, such as barcode readers and printers positioned on top. However, the cart in Ditges is overly large and unwieldy, comprising three axles. As a result, maneuverability is limited, and the cart occupies more physical space than a traditional shopping cart, making use during regular business hours difficult.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. <CIT> ("Tokyo") describes a shopping cart with integrated scale and bar code reader. In Tokyo, the items being processed must go into the bin of the shopping cart. Thus it would be difficult to register bulky items.

Since the order fulfillment tasks are often completed during store hours and in front of customers, having the workstation in a standard shopping cart shape or a flatbed cart shape would be more familiar and customer friendly. Because customers are familiar with the shape and presence of shopping carts, they will be more comfortable seeing a shopping cart being used for order fulfillment. Additionally, store employees would be comfortable maneuvering the workstation in a shopping cart form, thus reducing liability from accidents. Having a workstation powered by a lithium battery will provide power to the computer, printer, barcode readers/scanners, and other electronic accessories that will aid in the completion of the order fulfillment tasks on the workstation cart.

To solve these problems, the invention provides a mobile battery powered workstation cart as defined in claim <NUM>.

The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, comprising a wheeled cart having a frame, the frame comprising a lower wheeled base portion, an upper portion having a handle positioned at a comfortable standing height, and configured to securely receive a plurality of electronic components thereon; at least one bin; and an intermediate portion between the lower wheeled base portion and the upper portion and having two arms spaced apart and configured to releasably receive the at least one bin therein; a rechargeable battery positioned within a battery housing, wherein the battery housing is securely attached to the frame; a computer securely mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery; a barcode reader removably mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery; and at least one communications component coupled to the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery; wherein the two arms are configured to be substantially or absolutely parallel to a floor and may be removed from the frame. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the at least one communications component operates using at least one technology selected from the group consisting of a Wi-Fi technology, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, and Global Positioning System (GPS) technology.

The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the communications component is located within the computer.

The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the at least one communications component operates using at least one technology selected from the group consisting of a Wi-Fi technology, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, and Global Positioning System (GPS) technology. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the communications component is located outside of the computer. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the rechargeable battery is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery.

The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the two arms are configured to be substantially or absolutely parallel to a floor. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the two arms are configured to slidingly receive the at least one bin therein. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the at least one bin may be removed from between the two arms by lifting or sliding. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the rechargeable battery is removable from the battery housing for recharging. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the rechargeable battery further comprises a cord for plugging into a wall outlet for recharging.

The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the rechargeable battery is configured to engage a cord for plugging into a wall outlet for recharging. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the computer further comprises a display configured to information selected from the group consisting of real time order fulfillment information, location information of particular items, and other order fulfillment status information. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, further comprising a printer securely mounted to the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, further comprising an artificial intelligence hub securely mounted directly to the handle and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery.

The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the two arms are configured to be adjustable by sliding vertically along the frame. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, further comprising a second set of spaced apart arms configured to releasably receive at least one second basket therein. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the at least one bin comprises a compartment selected from the group consisting of at least one basket, at least one tote, at least one crate, at least one bag, and at least two compartments comprising one or more baskets, totes, crates, and bags. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, wherein the at least one bin is removed from the frame to result in a flatbed cart configuration.

The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, further comprising at least one of a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader or a barcode reader removably mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery.

The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, comprising a wheeled cart having a frame, the frame comprising a lower wheeled base portion, a middle portion having at least one shelf configured to receive at least one bin therein, wherein the shelf comprises higher side brackets and a lower front edge to slidingly receive the at least one bin via the lower front edge of the shelf, and an upper portion having a handle positioned at a comfortable standing height, and configured to securely receive a plurality of electronic components thereon; a rechargeable lithium battery positioned within a battery housing, wherein the battery housing is securely attached to the frame; a computer securely mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable lithium battery; a RFID reader/scanner removably mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable lithium battery; and a printer securely mounted to the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable lithium battery. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, further comprising an anti-theft tag. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, further comprising at least one communications component operating using at least one technology selected from the group consisting of a Wi-Fi technology, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology, and GPS technology.

The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, comprising: a wheeled cart having a frame, the frame comprising a lower wheeled base portion, a middle portion having at least one shelf configured to receive at least one bin therein, wherein the shelf comprises higher end brackets at both a front portion and a back portion of the cart, and wherein the shelf comprises a lower side edge to slidingly receive the at least one bin via the lower side edge of the shelf, and an upper portion having a handle positioned at a comfortable standing height, and configured to securely receive a plurality of electronic components thereon; a rechargeable lithium battery positioned within a battery housing, wherein the battery housing is securely attached to the frame; and a computer securely mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable lithium battery. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, further comprising at least one of a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader/scanner and/or a barcode reader/scanner removably mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable lithium battery. The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, further comprising a printer securely mounted to the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable lithium battery.

The present disclosure includes disclosure of a mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, comprising a wheeled cart having a frame, the frame comprising a lower wheeled base portion, an upper portion having a handle positioned at a comfortable standing height, and configured to securely receive a plurality of electronic components thereon, and an intermediate portion between the lower wheeled base portion and the upper portion and having two arms spaced apart and configured to releasably receive at least one bin therein; a rechargeable battery positioned within a battery housing, wherein the battery housing is securely attached to the frame; a computer securely mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery; a barcode reader/scanner removably mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery; and at least one communications component coupled to the frame and coupled to the rechargeable battery.

A mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, comprising a wheeled cart having a frame, the frame comprising a lower wheeled base portion, a middle portion having two arms spaced apart and configured to releasably receive at least one bin therein, and an upper portion having a handle positioned at a comfortable standing height, and configured to securely receive a plurality of electronic components thereon; a rechargeable lithium battery positioned within a battery housing, wherein the battery housing is securely attached to the frame; a computer positioned at the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery; a barcode reader/scanner removably mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable lithium battery; and at least one of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), or GPS securely coupled to the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable lithium battery.

A mobile battery powered workstation cart for order fulfillment, comprising a wheeled cart having a frame, the frame comprising a lower wheeled base portion, an upper portion configured to securely receive a plurality of electronic components thereon, and an intermediate portion between the lower wheeled base portion and the upper portion and having two arms spaced apart and configured to releasably receive at least one bin therein; a rechargeable battery configured for secure attachment to the frame; a computer securely mounted to the upper portion of the frame and configured to receive power from the rechargeable lithium battery and/or an internal battery within the computer; a barcode reader/scanner removably mounted to the upper portion of the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery; and at least one communications component coupled to the frame and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery.

The disclosed embodiments and other features, advantages, and disclosures contained herein, and the matter of attaining them, will become apparent and the present invention will be better understood by reference to the following description of various exemplary embodiments of the present invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:.

As such, an overview of the features, functions and/or configurations of the components depicted in the various figures will now be presented. It should be appreciated that not all of the features of the components of the figures are necessarily described and some of these non- discussed features (as well as discussed features) are inherent from the figures themselves. Other non-discussed features may be inherent in component geometry and/or configuration. Furthermore, wherever feasible and convenient, like reference numerals are used in the figures and the description to refer to the same or like parts or steps. The figures are in a simplified form and not to precise scale.

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the present invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of this invention is thereby intended.

The present disclosure includes various battery powered workstation carts for order fulfillment, systems, and methods for operating a mobile battery powered workstation cart to fulfill an order. The lithium battery powered workstation cart may include a computer, printer, barcode reader/scanner, RFID reader/scanner, artificial intelligence hub, and other electronic devices necessary for completion of order fulfillment tasks by employees. These battery powered mobile workstation carts can be utilized to improve order fulfillment efficiency in stores, as well as in various other operations and industries. These battery powered workstation carts are intended to efficiently aid retail employees in identifying, labeling, cataloging, picking, and packing goods to address order fulfillment in modem, larger retail stores. These battery powered workstation carts are battery powered to support the electronic components, such as the mobile computer, barcode-reading, RFID-reading, artificial intelligence hub, and printing devices needed to support order fulfillment. Further, these battery powered workstation carts are intended to be modular, so that the bagging area can be reconfigured for larger or smaller orders, having different numbers of bags, bins, totes, crates, or baskets thereon.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the battery powered mobile workstation cart <NUM> may have the generally familiar shape of a cart <NUM>, having four wheels attached to a sturdy metal frame <NUM> (providing structural integrity to cart <NUM>). The frame may include: <NUM>) a lower wheeled base portion <NUM>, which may itself be a shelf <NUM> (also referred to as a lower storage platform, which can be solid, a mesh, etc., depending on desired use, such as to support larger flat-pack items), <NUM>) a middle or intermediate portion (shown generally as <NUM>) having two arms <NUM> and <NUM> spaced apart and configured to releasably receive at least one bin or basket <NUM> etc. therein; and <NUM>) an upper portion (shown generally as <NUM>) having a handle or handlebar extension <NUM> (often part of frame <NUM>) positioned at a comfortable standing height (such as a height of at or between <NUM>" and <NUM>", for example), and configured to securely receive a plurality of electronic components (generally referred to as <NUM>) herein. This battery powered workstation cart <NUM> may operate as a mobile base workstation, for holding and powering electronic components <NUM>, such as a computer <NUM> (such as a laptop computer or a tablet computer, with holder, for example), printer <NUM> (such as a label printer with holder, for example), artificial intelligence hub <NUM> (but may be part of computer <NUM>, or electronic components <NUM>), barcode scanner/reader <NUM>, and radio frequency identification (RFID) scanner/reader needed for in-store order fulfillment. Computer <NUM>, printer <NUM>, and barcode scanner/reader <NUM> are shown herein as exemplary electronic components <NUM> for purposes of illustration, but some embodiments may comprise additional, or fewer, electronic components <NUM> as being within the scope of the present invention. For example, computer <NUM> represents various types of computing devices and/or processors (e.g. laptop PCs, tablets, and phones), while printer <NUM> represents multiple standard printers and/or label printers, and each can include components and accessories to power the same. Printer <NUM> and printer holder <NUM> (implying an apparatus for retaining a printer) are used interchangeably herein. Computer <NUM>, as referenced herein, is a general term for a computing device, which may include, but is not limited to, a laptop computer, a tablet, and the like. Artificial intelligence hub (not shown) may be an integral part of computer <NUM>, or may be a separate electrical component <NUM>, such as an Amazon Echo Dot® or Google Home® , or other form of machine intelligence (i.e., machine mimicking human cognitive function), mounted directly to the handlebar extension <NUM> and may interact with the store's software database(s) to send and receive order fulfillment information.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the electronic components <NUM>, such as the computer <NUM>, printer <NUM>, artificial intelligence hub <NUM> (or part of <NUM>), barcode reader/scanner <NUM>, and RFID reader/scanner may be conveniently located near, or mounted to, the handlebar <NUM>, such as between the handlebar <NUM> and the large basket <NUM>, on the shopping cart. Positioning the electronic components <NUM> near the handlebar <NUM>, provides easy viewing of the screen of computer <NUM>, and easy access to the printer <NUM>, artificial intelligence hub <NUM>, barcode reader/scanner <NUM>, and RFID reader/scanner for a user/employee using the mobile battery powered workstation cart <NUM> in a store. In this embodiment, a user/employee can easily view the computer screen <NUM> while pushing the battery powered mobile workstation cart <NUM> through the store and placing the necessary items into the large basket <NUM> (or onto the lower shelf <NUM>, in the case of some larger items) to complete order fulfillment. Portable barcode scanners, portable RFID scanners, portable printers, or PDAs can have a docking station on the cart so that the user can dock items to free up their hands while fulfilling orders. Barcode reader/scanner <NUM> can refer to a holder and/or scanner with or without a holder, can support standard barcode scanner models, and can include components and accessories to charge the same. RFID reader/scanners can refer to a holder and/or scanner with or without a holder, can support standard RFID scanner models, and can include components and accessories to charge the same.

As shown in <FIG>, any of the battery powered workstation carts <NUM> described herein may also comprise a battery <NUM>. Battery <NUM> (which may also be referred to as a power system, such as being AC powered with a cable) may comprise a lithium battery <NUM>, which is rechargeable (so to cover a desired amount of time, such as at least one or two work shifts, for example) and/or swappable, and/or removable. Lithium batteries <NUM> of the present disclosure contain lithium, such as lithium-ion batteries, noting that a lithium-ion battery <NUM> may be the preferred lithium battery <NUM> for use with one or more carts <NUM> referenced herein. While the embodiments described herein utilize a lithium battery <NUM>, other batteries may also be used herein within the scope of the present invention.

In this embodiment, shown in <FIG>, the battery <NUM> is housed in a secure housing <NUM> located below the handlebar <NUM> and below the electronic components <NUM> and coupled to frame <NUM>. It should also be understood that battery <NUM> may be housed in other locations depending upon the design/configuration of the cart <NUM>. Battery <NUM> may be housed within a secure and lockable housing <NUM>, to prevent theft and damage. The housing <NUM> may also be used for a swappable battery option. The lithium battery <NUM> may be operably coupled to the electronic components <NUM>, such as computer <NUM> and printer <NUM>, barcode reader/scanner <NUM>, RFID reader/scanner, and an artificial intelligence hub <NUM>, to provide power. Additionally, the lithium battery <NUM> may be large enough to provide battery power for at least one employee shift, or approximately <NUM> hours. However, in other embodiments, the lithium battery <NUM> will be large enough to power all of the electronic components <NUM> for multiple employee shifts. The lithium battery <NUM> can be recharged, such as by plugging it in to a wall outlet and/or by replacing the battery <NUM> with another fully charged battery <NUM>. Employees can recharge and/or replace batteries <NUM> between shifts and battery life is anticipated to be long enough to last for multiple employee shifts to maximize employee order fulfillment efficiency.

Additionally, any of the battery powered workstation carts <NUM> described herein may also include an artificial intelligence hub or device (such as Amazon Echo Dot® , or Google Home® ) or another intelligent computerized machine. In some embodiments, the artificial intelligence hub may be mounted directly to handlebar <NUM> or may be an integral part of computer <NUM> (such as software or another program). Equipping a battery powered workstation cart <NUM> with an artificial intelligence hub will allow the store to have an artificial intelligence powered hub at the point of fulfillment to assist the employees in performing their jobs faster and more efficiently and will establish the foundation for future artificial intelligence software within stores. The artificial intelligence hub can interact with the store's software/database(s) so that store employees can use a hands-free device to send and receive information, such as order fulfillment information.

Additionally, any of the mobile battery powered workstation carts <NUM> described herein may also include Wi-Fi and/or Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and/or Global Positioning System (GPS) and/or a GPS locator therein (shown generally as electronic components <NUM> and/or as computer <NUM>), which may be individually referred to as a communications component configured to operate using Wi-fi, BLE, and/or GPS technology. The Wi-Fi capability will allow the battery powered workstation cart <NUM> to connect to the local store's network. The BLE capability can communicate the cart's location within the store, while the GPS can transmit the cart's location outside of the store. The Wi-Fi capability will be important for integrating the battery powered workstation cart <NUM> with the store's existing technology and software. For example, the Wi-Fi may be used to provide the orders to the employee fulfilling the order. The Wi-Fi may also help to monitor order fulfillment progress and may also be used to map the fastest route for locating items or completing the order fulfillment tasks. The Wi-Fi, BLE, and GPS may also help to prevent theft of the battery powered workstation cart <NUM>, as its exact position can be monitored/tracked. If lost, the battery powered workstation cart <NUM> can quickly be found using the Wi-Fi, BLE, and GPS.

The battery powered mobile workstation carts <NUM> herein may also comprise an anti-theft tag or device (shown generally as electronic components <NUM> and/or as computer <NUM>). The anti-theft tag will set off any store security alarms if the mobile battery powered workstation cart <NUM> is removed from the store, unless needed to support order pick-up outside the store (e.g. parking lot or drive-thru service).

<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG> illustrate various exemplary embodiments of the battery powered workstation cart <NUM>, having several different swappable basket, bag, bin, crate, or tote configurations. <FIG> illustrates a mobile battery powered workstation cart <NUM> having a large basket <NUM> configuration, which can be removable, and can include various modular storage options, as may be desired. As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the cart <NUM> may comprise two arms <NUM> and <NUM>, which act as side bracket bars or support arms, and extend perpendicularly from frame <NUM>. The two arms <NUM> or <NUM> (or side bracket arms <NUM> and <NUM>) may also include notches or protrusions extending therefrom, sized to mate with a basket, bin, or crate, to securely hold the basket, bin, or crate within the two arms <NUM> and <NUM>. The two side bracket arms <NUM> and <NUM> may remain attached to workstation cart <NUM> (i.e. permanently coupled to frame <NUM>), even when large basket <NUM> is removed (such as shown in <FIG>), or may be removed from frame <NUM> to allow for even larger or bulkier items to be stored on lower wheeled shelf <NUM>. The two side bracket arms <NUM> and <NUM> may be configured to receive different sized baskets, totes, crates, bags, etc. such as large basket <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) or a smaller basket or bin <NUM> (shown in <FIG>). These two side bracket arms <NUM> and <NUM> may be stationary or may also have vertically or horizontally adjustable heights, such that the basket or bin height and/or length can be adjusted. The two side bracket arms <NUM> and <NUM> may also have hooks for holding bags, totes, soft-goods, etc..

As shown in <FIG>, the large basket <NUM> may be removed from the two side bracket arms <NUM> and <NUM>, such as by sliding or lifting, to entirely remove large basket <NUM> from the mobile battery powered workstation cart <NUM>. In this embodiment, shown in <FIG>, only the lower shelf <NUM> would be used in a flatbed configuration, such as for moving very large, tall, or bulky items. As shown in <FIG>, the two side bracket arms <NUM> and <NUM> can also be sized to receive a smaller basket or bin <NUM>. An employee may choose to use the smaller basket <NUM> for smaller order fulfillment (as shown in <FIG>) and the larger basket <NUM> for larger order fulfillment (as shown in <FIG>). This modular, or reconfigurable basket design, is desirable to customize the size and maneuverability of the battery powered workstation cart <NUM>.

<FIG> and <FIG> illustrate exemplary embodiments of the battery powered workstation cart <NUM>, having different bag, bin, or tote configurations. Because the battery powered workstation cart <NUM> is modular, and large basket <NUM> is removable, the cart <NUM> can then be configured to hold single, or multiple bags, bins, or totes (such as on lower shelf <NUM>) in various swappable configurations. <FIG> illustrates an embodiment having multiple bags, bins, or totes <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> positioned on top of lower wheeled shelf <NUM> (when large basket <NUM> is removed). <FIG> illustrates an embodiment having a single bag, bin, or tote <NUM> positioned on top of lower wheeled shelf <NUM> (when large basket <NUM> is removed).

A store employee can pack the selected items directly into the bags, bins, or totes <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, and/or <NUM> (shown in <FIG> and <FIG>) as the items are selected from the store shelves. This prevents the redundant step of store employees having to return to a storage area to then bag the items selected, thus increasing store employee efficiency. It should be understood that the modular reconfigurable nature of the cart <NUM> means that many other configurations are also anticipated as being with the scope of the present invention. In one embodiment, for example, the bags, bins, or totes may be used within larger basket <NUM>, or hung from or attached to bracket bars <NUM> and <NUM>. In another exemplary embodiment, for example, standard plastic or paper shopping bags may be used, or they may be used in combination with the baskets, bags, bins, or totes. In some cases, a single basket, tote, bin, or bag might hold several smaller bags of items, for example. In other examples, the baskets, bags, bins, or totes may themselves be labeled and/or barcoded for easier location by store employees when the customer arrives to pick up the items.

<FIG> illustrates an embodiment of the mobile battery powered workstation cart <NUM> having a flatbed configuration. This larger flatbed configuration may be desirable in stores specializing in much larger and bulkier items, such as home building stores, for example. As shown in <FIG>, the mobile battery powered workstation cart <NUM> may comprise a wheeled frame <NUM> having a handlebar <NUM> holding and a larger flat storage area <NUM>, for accommodating larger or bulkier items. This mobile battery powered workstation cart <NUM> may also comprise electronic components <NUM> (such as computer <NUM>, printer <NUM>, barcode reader/scanner <NUM>), operably coupled to a lithium battery <NUM>, and securely mounted to frame <NUM> at a height convenient for a store employee. In other embodiments, the lower wheeled base portion may be larger (than that shown in <FIG>) to provide additional room for larger and bulkier items.

As shown in <FIG>, the battery powered mobile workstation cart <NUM> may be designed with shelves instead of two side bracket arms (as previously described above). In this embodiment, the frame <NUM> may include: <NUM>) a lower wheeled base portion <NUM>; <NUM>) a middle portion (shown generally as <NUM>) having at least one shelf <NUM> and configured to receive at least one bin <NUM> therein, wherein the shelf has higher brackets <NUM> along the sides and a lower front edge <NUM> to slidingly receive the at least one bin <NUM> via the lower front edge <NUM> of the shelf <NUM>; and <NUM>) an upper portion (shown generally as <NUM>) having a handle <NUM> positioned at a comfortable standing height, and configured to securely receive a plurality of electronic components (generally referred to as <NUM>) thereon.

An employee using the cart <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, can simply slide or lift the removable bin or bins <NUM> from the shelf <NUM>, such as by sliding the bin <NUM> toward a front end of the cart (shown generally as <NUM>) to remove the bin <NUM> from the cart <NUM>. The higher side brackets <NUM> prevent the bin or bins <NUM> from sliding off the sides while the cart <NUM> is being moved or pushed. As shown in <FIG>, the cart <NUM> may be configured with more than one shelf <NUM>, such as two, three, or more shelves <NUM>. The shelf <NUM>, or shelves <NUM>, may be stationary (i.e., rigidly fixed to frame <NUM>) or may be vertically and/or horizontally adjustable (along frame <NUM>), such as to make room for larger items between the shelves <NUM>, or to increase shelf length, for example. Additionally, bin or bins <NUM> may be sized for receiving standard plastic or paper shopping bags, or they may be used in combination with the baskets, bags, bins, or totes. It should also be understood that the modular reconfigurable nature of the cart <NUM> and shelves <NUM> means that many other configurations are also anticipated as being with the scope of the present invention.

<FIG> illustrates another embodiment of a battery powered mobile workstation cart <NUM> having shelves <NUM>. In this embodiment, the frame <NUM> may include: <NUM>) a lower wheeled base portion <NUM>; <NUM>) a middle portion (shown generally as <NUM>) having at least one shelf <NUM> configured to receive at least one bin <NUM> therein, wherein the shelf <NUM> comprises higher end brackets <NUM> at both a front portion <NUM> and a back portion <NUM> of the cart, and wherein the shelf <NUM> also has a lower side edge <NUM> to slidingly receive the at least one bin <NUM> via the lower side edge <NUM> of the shelf.

As shown in <FIG>, an employee using the cart <NUM>, can simply slide or lift the removable bin or bins <NUM> from the shelf <NUM>, such as by sliding the bin <NUM> toward a side of the cart <NUM> (i.e. toward the lower side edge <NUM>) to remove the bin <NUM> from the cart <NUM>. In this embodiment, the bin or bins <NUM> may be slid toward the sides of the cart <NUM> for removal from the cart (i.e., not toward the front portion <NUM> as shown in <FIG>). The higher side brackets <NUM> prevent the bin or bins <NUM> from sliding off the front portion <NUM> or the back portion <NUM> of the cart while the cart <NUM> is being moved or pushed, which allows bin <NUM> access from the sides of the cart <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the cart <NUM> may be configured with more than one shelf <NUM>, such as two, three, or more shelves <NUM>, all containing multiple bins <NUM>. The shelf <NUM>, or shelves <NUM>, may also be stationary (i.e., rigidly fixed to the frame <NUM>) or vertically and/or horizontally adjustable (along frame <NUM>), such as to make room for larger items between the shelves <NUM>, or to increase shelf length, for example. Additionally, bin or bins <NUM> may be sized for receiving standard plastic or paper shopping bags, or they may be used in combination with the baskets, bags, bins, or totes. It should also be understood that the modular reconfigurable nature of the cart <NUM> and shelves <NUM> means that many other configurations are also anticipated as being with the scope of the present invention.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the carts <NUM> may operate as a mobile base workstation, for holding and powering electronic components <NUM>, such as a computer <NUM> (such as a laptop computer or a tablet computer, with holder, for example), printer <NUM> (such as a label printer with holder, for example), artificial intelligence hub (may be part of computer <NUM>, or electronic components <NUM>), barcode scanner/reader <NUM>, and RFID reader/scanner etc. needed for in-store order fulfillment.

Additionally, any of the above embodiments of the mobile battery powered workstation <NUM> may comprise an integral tray to provide additional worksurface area for a user. In this embodiment, a user may pull out a sliding tray, or flip up a handing tray, to access additional work surface area. A user may pull or slide the tray out to provide a flat writing or working surface and then the user can push the tray back in when the task is complete. The integral siding tray may be positioned at a convenient height for writing or typing while standing, such as near handlebar <NUM>.

Additionally, any of the above embodiments of the battery powered workstation cart <NUM> may also contain a storage compartment, such as a drawer, cabinet, shelf or bin. This storage compartment, or multiple storage compartments in some embodiments, will be convenient for storing extra labels, forms, bags, stickers, label rolls, stationary, and other items necessary for order fulfillment. In some embodiments, this storage compartment may also encompass the electronic components <NUM>. In one example, the storage area may be located underneath the handlebar <NUM> and adjacent to the electronic components <NUM>, so that it is easily accessed by the user/employee. In some embodiments, designing the storage compartment to encompass the electronic components <NUM> may be advantageous for feeding labels rolls etc. into printer <NUM>. Additionally, the storage compartment may be lockable to prevent theft. However, it should be understood the storage area may be located in other positions on the mobile battery powered workstation <NUM>. Having all of the necessary items in one place, on a mobile workstation cart <NUM>, will greatly increase employee efficiency in order fulfillment processes.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the mobile battery powered workstation cart <NUM> may also comprise a secure lockable housing attached directly thereto (not shown). This secure lockable housing may encompass the electronic components <NUM> (i.e., computer <NUM>, printer <NUM>, artificial intelligence hub, RFID reader/scanner) and, optionally, the rechargeable lithium battery <NUM>. It may be desirable to secure the lithium battery <NUM> and electronic components <NUM>, such as the computer <NUM> and printer <NUM>, in the same housing since they are operably coupled together. Additionally, securing the electronic components <NUM> in the lockable housing prevents damage and theft. The secure lockable housing may be coupled to frame <NUM> at a convenient height for user operation while standing.

Having a mobile battery powered workstation <NUM> with modular storage baskets, bins, bags, or totes, a rechargeable battery <NUM>, and all necessary electronic components <NUM> (including artificial intelligence hub or device) for order fulfillment, will greatly improve in store order fulfillment efficiency. An employee will be able to complete all order fulfillment tasks while moving through the store. The employee will less frequently need to return to a static workstation/computer area to bag, print labels, print final invoices, etc. Having a mobile battery powered workstation <NUM> with the familiar shopping cart design will provide a familiar and comfortable look to customers shopping in the store while the battery powered workstation cart <NUM> is in use. It will also provide easy maneuverability within the stores, which are already designed for shopping carts. The familiarity and easy maneuverability will help to reduce employee training time and reduce liability from accidents or injury, especially compared to current bulky workstation solutions.

Claim 1:
A mobile battery powered workstation cart (<NUM>) for order fulfillment, comprising:
a wheeled cart (<NUM>) having a frame (<NUM>), the frame (<NUM>) comprising:
a lower wheeled base portion (<NUM>);
an upper portion (<NUM>) having a handle (<NUM>) positioned at a comfortable standing height, and configured to securely receive a plurality of electronic components (<NUM>) thereon;
at least one bin; and
an intermediate portion (<NUM>) between the lower wheeled base portion (<NUM>) and the upper portion (<NUM>) and having two arms (<NUM>, <NUM>) spaced apart and configured to releasably receive the at least one bin (<NUM>) therein;
a rechargeable battery (<NUM>) positioned within a battery housing (<NUM>), wherein the battery housing (<NUM>) is securely attached to the frame (<NUM>);
a computer (<NUM>) securely mounted to the upper portion of the frame (<NUM>) and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery (<NUM>);
a barcode reader (<NUM>) removably mounted to the upper portion (<NUM>) of the frame (<NUM>)and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery (<NUM>); and
at least one communications component coupled to the frame (<NUM>) and operably coupled to the rechargeable battery (<NUM>);
characterized in that the two arms (<NUM>, <NUM>) are configured to be substantially or absolutely parallel to a floor and are adapted to be removed from the frame.