Automatic storage and retrieval system having an extendible bin extraction mechanism with pop-up tabs

A storage and retrieval system comprising:

• a plurality of storage compartments having spaced bin support means, said storage compartments arranged longitudinally in vertical rows on both sides of a longitudinally extending aisle;
• a plurality of bins, each bin having at least one sidewall and a bottom, the at least one sidewall and bottom connected to one another to define an edge, each bin arranged in one of said storage compartments, said plurality of bins defining a two-dimensional array of bins on both sides of the aisle;
• extractor means for extracting a selected bin from a first location and for replacing the selected bin at a second location, said extractor means extendible along a first horizontal axis beneath and between said spaced bin support means of said selected storage compartment;
• shuttle means for transporting a selected bin in movement along a desired path disposed in two perpendicular axes of a vertical plane, said shuttle means carrying said extractor means and having a bin supporting surface spaced vertically above the extractor means;
• at least one pair of tabs carried by said extractor means, said at least one pair of tabs moveable between a retracted position within the extractor means and an extended position extending vertically upwardly from the extractor means for engagement with a remote sidewall adjacent said edge of the selected bin;
• tab actuation means for moving the tabs between the retracted and extended positions;
• and
• single drive means for driving the extractor means in controlled movement along the first horizontal axis normal to the vertical plane when positioned at a selected position with respect to the selected bin and for operably engaging the tab actuation means for moving the pair of tabs between the extended and retracted positions when the extractor means is in a fully extended position.