Importance

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Abstract

An automated storage and retrieval system includes a track system including a first set of tracks arranged in a horizontal plane and extending in a first direction, and a second set of tracks arranged in the horizontal plane and extending in a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction. The first set of tracks and the second set of tracks form a grid pattern in the horizontal plane including a plurality of adjacent grid cells. Each grid cell includes an opening defined by the first set of tracks and the second set of tracks such that the track system includes a plurality of openings. A plurality of storage containers are arranged in columns beneath the track system such that the storage containers are located vertically below the openings. A plurality of container handling vehicles for lifting and moving the storage containers are configured to move on the track system and access the storage containers via the openings. Each container handling vehicle of the container handling vehicles includes a lower part in contact with the track system and an upper part. The lower part has a width and a length that form a vehicle footprint. The vehicle footprint of the lower part has dimensions smaller than the opening such that a contact area of the container handling vehicle does not extend into an adjacent grid cell. The upper part, which is disposed vertically above the lower part, includes a protruding section and a recessed section. The protruding section is configured to extend beyond the lower part into the adjacent grid cell. The recessed section is of a complimentary shape to the protruding section such that the recessed section is configured to receive other protruding sections of other vehicles of the container handling vehicles. The lower part further includes a storage space configured to accommodate a storage container of the storage containers.

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First Claim