US Patent:
20210139243, May 13, 2021
Inventors:
- Raleigh NC, US
James M. Serstad - Orlando FL, US
Ryan Fehrenbacher - Chicago IL, US
Milan Patel - Cleveland OH, US
Ray Wells - Asheville NC, US
Steven Wu - Raleigh NC, US
James Edouard - Orlando FL, US
Denny McKnight - Raleigh NC, US
John C. Spain - Raleigh NC, US
International Classification:
B65G 1/137
B65G 1/02
Abstract:
Platform assembly for use with sorting articles comprises platforms connected to each other to form at least one level surface for transit thereabout by a plurality of vehicles. Each platform defines a first orientation in which the platform is in a retracted position and a second orientation in which the platform is in an extended position with a horizontal disposition. Each platform includes a first panel comprising a plurality of markers thereon, the markers forming a grid on the first panel for transit thereabout by the plurality of vehicles. Each marker includes a magnetic signature for determining an orientation of the marker. A container is positioned about at least one of the plurality of markers. In operation, the vehicle is directed by a control system to deposit an article carried thereon into a container associated with a marker based on the location and orientation of the marker.