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Load detecting system for automatic storage apparatus

  • US 4,479,207 A
  • Filed: 03/19/1982
  • Issued: 10/23/1984
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/19/1982
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. An apparatus for signalling bin-full, bin-empty and "no echo" conditions in scanning a storage rack bin that has an open end, the apparatus comprising:

  • ranging means positioned adjacent said open end for transmitting an ultrasonic signal into said bin and for detecting an echo of said ultrasonic signal, said ranging means including means for generating timing signals for successive elapsed times from the transmission of said ultrasonic signal;

    means coupled to said ranging means for generating a bin-full signal in response to said timing signals for one of said elapsed times within a first time range corresponding to a first distance range;

    means coupled to said ranging means for generating a bin-empty signal in response to said timing signals for another one of said elapsed times within a second time range corresponding to a second distance range; and

    means coupled to said ranging means for generating a "no echo" signal in response to said timing signals for another one of said elapsed times beyond said first and second time ranges.

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