Access station with stopper mechanism

A method for operating an access station for an automated storage and retrieval system having a storage section for storing storage containers,

• wherein the access station comprises a frame structure enclosing a receiving space for receiving a storage container to be transferred from or into the storage section along a conveying path an access opening for accessing the receiving space from externally of the access station a movable cover element for selectively covering the access opening, and a stopper mechanism with at least one movably supported blocking element, wherein the cover element is designed to move along a cover path between an open position, in which the access opening is at least partially opened, and a closed position, in which the access opening is covered,
• wherein the method comprises:
• placing a storage container in the receiving space while the cover element is closed,
• opening the cover element thereby toggling the at least one blocking element into a blocking position to block the conveying path for storage containers, and
• closing the cover element, thereby toggling the at least one blocking element into a release position to release the conveying path.