A CONTAINER BUFFERING ASSEMBLY, A STORAGE SYSTEM COMPRISING THE CONTAINER BUFFERING ASSEMBLY, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS

A storage system includes a framework structure in which storage containers are stored, a container lift device, and a conveyor. The framework structure includes at least a first port column through which a storage container may be transferred by the container lift device. The first port column includes an upper end at which the container lift device is arranged when a storage container is to be lowered or lifted through the port column, and a lower end at which a container buffering assembly is arranged. The container buffering assembly includes a container holder frame including a plurality of supports. The container holder frame is movable in a first horizontal direction between a first position under the lower end of the first port column and a second position away from the lower end of the first port column. The supports are actuatable between: a holding position, in which the supports are configured to support a storage container; and a release position, in which a storage container may pass through the container holder frame. At least a part of the container holder frame is vertically movable for transferring a storage container between the container holder frame and the conveyor.