Patent ID: 8342508

Claim:
A system for transporting an object, the system comprising: at least two holders, each holder constructed and arranged to selectively grasp, retain, and release an object having an object plane, wherein each holder defines a path from a source to a destination having a receiving surface, wherein the path includes a first straight portion as the object is removed from the source, the first straight portion extending perpendicularly to the object plane, and a second straight portion as the object is released onto the receiving surface, the second straight portion crossing the receiving surface; each holder is constructed and arranged to selectively release the object onto the receiving surface when the holder is on the same level as the receiving surface and the holder is capable of descending under the receiving surface after releasing the object; and a mover constructed and arranged to move the at least two holders, wherein the mover includes a first arm rotatable about a first axis and at least one second arm rotatable about a second axis, wherein the at least one second arm is attached to at least one of the at least two holders extending in opposite directions from the second axis.