초록 ▼

A method and apparatus are provided for automatically processing returned video cassettes to determine that the appropriate tape cartridges are matched with the appropriate cases, to assure that the tape cartridges are fully rewound, to check the video cassettes back into inventory and then to sort

A method and apparatus are provided for automatically processing returned video cassettes to determine that the appropriate tape cartridges are matched with the appropriate cases, to assure that the tape cartridges are fully rewound, to check the video cassettes back into inventory and then to sort the cassettes by selected entertainment categories for reshelving. A feed chute is provided for receiving the cassettes and passing them to a size sorter for detecting the sizes of the cassettes. Cassettes of inappropriate sizes are then ejected from processing and placed in an unprocessed return staging bin. Cassettes of the appropriate size are then passed through an orientation detection and orientating section in which the video cassette cases are oriented in a particular alignment for presenting to a rewind and bar code reading system. The video cassettes are then automatically checked for an appropriate match between the tape cartridges and the cases. If a mismatch is detected, the inappropriately matched tape cartridges and the inappropriately matched cases are held within an internal staging area for matching with the appropriate cases and tape cartridges, respectively. Video cassettes are automatically rewound and then automatically sorted according to the entertainment categories.

대표청구항 ▼

An apparatus for automatically processing video cassette rental returns of video tape cartridges disposed within video cases, the apparatus comprising: feed means for receiving and transporting the video cassettes; orienting means for orienting the video cassettes being transported within the feed m

An apparatus for automatically processing video cassette rental returns of video tape cartridges disposed within video cases, the apparatus comprising: feed means for receiving and transporting the video cassettes; orienting means for orienting the video cassettes being transported within the feed means to dispose the video cassettes to face in selected directions; rewind determining means for checking to determine whether the video tape cartridges are rewound; and discharge means for removing the video cassettes from the rewind determining means and placing the video cassettes within a discharge staging area.