State Library Materials Handling System Design: Part II
Abstract This paper (part two of two) discusses the concepts generated by the Center for Automation Technologies, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, for an automation system for the New York State Talking Book and Braille Library (TBBL). It describes the last several module concepts in the system, designed to assist the TBBL staff in the processing of “talking books” (books on cassette), and discusses system simulations, and conclusions from this work. Part one discussed the assessment of needs, requirements, and process flow (all of which are summarized here), as well as the first several modules in the system. The primary purposes for this modular system are 1. To assist the TBBL in meeting increased throughput demands and 2. To reduce work-related injury claims. The modules are designed to work individually (as to allow the possibility of similar libraries in other states to purchase modules as desired), and facilitate incremental implementation toward a complete system (for maximized benefit). In this paper, the modules discussed are the latch closer, label remover, and the virtual turnaround shelves system.