Abstract: A parts distribution system and process uses a computer network... distribute spare parts... system includes a plurality of buyer computers... desiring to obtain one or more parts, a plurality of seller computers ... desiring to sell one or more parts, and at least one server computer... interconnected as a computer network. ....the seller computers... input part related data to the server computer, and the server computer... maintain a database of all available parts. The buyer computers are used to transmit part requests to the server computer, and the server computer selecting one or more parts from the database...

An inventory system includes a plurality of mobile drive units with a processor control and with a positioning system that enables the mobile drive units to navigate a factory floor. The mobile drive units interface with a material handling system to receive order requests and deliver inventory items to pack stations located on the factory floor. The inventory items are stored in trays stacked into movable inventory pods, which may be transported by the mobile drive units throughout the factory floor. The mobile drive units dock and undock with the movable inventory pods using a docking mechanism.