Light Positioning System and Method of Using the Same

A light positioning system for use in transferring a container to a buffer, the light positioning system comprising:

• a light signal disposed adjacent the buffer for guiding an operator to position a chassis into the buffer,
• a program logic controller associated with the light positioning system;
• a thru beam sensor, wherein the thru beam sensor senses movement of the container into the buffer and outputs data to the program logic controller;
• and
• a distance sensor, wherein the distance sensor determines a distance from the distance sensor to the container and outputs data to the program logic controller;
• wherein the program logic controller determines a length of the container based on the data received from the thru beam sensor and the distance sensor, and
• wherein the program logic controller provides an output signal to the light signal based on the length of the container and the data received from the distance sensor.

A method of transferring a container to a buffer, the method comprising the steps of:

• sensing movement of the container carried by a chassis into the buffer using a plurality of sensors;
• determining a length of the container based on data received from the plurality of sensors;
• guiding an operator via a light signal to position the chassis into the buffer based on the length of the container;
• extending a plurality of support pads associated with the buffer to an underside of the container;
• raising the support pads so as to support the container;
• and
• withdrawing the chassis from the buffer.

A method of transferring a container to a chassis, the method comprising the steps of:

• providing a buffer in which the container is positioned on a plurality of support pads associated with the buffer;
• sensing movement of the chassis into the buffer using a plurality of sensors;
• retrieving stored data relating to the container, wherein the stored data includes the container's length;
• guiding an operator via a light signal to position the chassis beneath the container, wherein the light signal illuminates in a specific color to guide the operator based on the stored data and data received from the plurality of sensors;
• lowering the plurality of support pads such that the container rests upon the chassis;
• retracting the plurality of support pads from under the container to a retracted position;
• and
• withdrawing the chassis carrying the container from the buffer.