Patent attributes
A system to select and reposition inventory items on one or more shelving units is disclosed. The system can include a robotic positioning system (RPS) to move inventory items on a shelf to the front of the shelf, or off the shelf, to facilitate selection, delivery, and restocking of the inventory item. The RPS can include a movement system to enable it to position itself behind a particular inventory item on a shelf. The RPS can also include a positioner to enable the RPS to move the inventory item backward and forward on the shelf. The RPS can be mounted on a free-standing frame to enable movement in two axes and repositioning of inventory items in a third axis. The RPS can also be centrally mounted in a shelving unit and can move vertically and rotate about a single axis to reposition inventory items radially.