US 12,410,014 B2
Article delivery system and method that includes an overhead rail network
James M. Serstad, Orlando, FL (US); and Michael C. Futch, Orlando, FL (US)
Assigned to Tompkins Robotics, Inc., Orlando, FL (US)
Filed by Tompkins Robotics, Inc., Orlando, FL (US)
Filed on May 7, 2024, as Appl. No. 18/656,951.
Application 18/656,951 is a continuation of application No. 17/307,629, filed on May 4, 2021, granted, now 11,987,447.
Prior Publication US 2024/0286838 A1, Aug. 29, 2024
This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.
Int. Cl. B65G 1/137 (2006.01); B61B 3/02 (2006.01); B65G 1/04 (2006.01)
CPC B65G 1/1373 (2013.01) [B61B 3/02 (2013.01); B65G 1/0457 (2013.01); B65G 1/1371 (2013.01)] 20 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. A system comprising:
a self-guided and self-propelled hanging vehicle that travels along an overhead rail network, the hanging vehicle having a first position in which a carrier is engaged with the hanging vehicle and a second position in which at least one of: the carrier is detached from the hanging vehicle, and a selected article contained in the carrier is discharged from the hanging vehicle;
a platform elevated from a proximal surface for a mobile transport device for travel thereon, the mobile transport device including wheels that contact the platform, the mobile transport device configured to transport and deposit the selected article to a receiving container proximal the platform; and
a controller configured to:
receive an order;
direct the hanging vehicle to deliver to a delivery location one of: the carrier containing the selected article, and the selected article; and
direct the mobile transport device to transport the selected article received at the delivery location and sort the selected article to the receiving container, wherein the receiving container corresponds to the order.