Abstract: A method is disclosed of changing a tool on a programmable motion device. The method includes the steps of moving an attachment portion of an end effector of the programmable motion device in a continuous motion; while the attachment portion of the end effector moves in the continuous motion, engaging one of: the attachment portion of the end effector with the tool, or the tool attached to the attachment portion of the end effector with an exchange system, and continuing to move the attachment portion of the end effector in the continuous motion to change a connection status of the attachment portion of the end effector while the attachment portion of the end effector moves in the continuous motion.

Abstract: An automated carrier system is disclosed for moving objects to be processed. The automated carrier system includes a discontinuous plurality of track sections on which an automated carrier may be directed to move, and the automated carrier includes a base structure on which an object may be supported, and at least two wheels assemblies being pivotally supported on the base structure for pivoting movement from a first position to a second position to effect a change in direction of movement of the carrier.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for providing high flow vacuum control to an end-effector of a programmable motion device. The system includes a vacuum source for providing a high flow vacuum, a conduit path leading from the end-effector to the high flow vacuum source, a sensor system for sensing any of a pressure or a flow at any of the end-effector, the conduit path, and the vacuum source, and providing sensor information, and a pneumatic control module including a vacuum pressure adjustment system for adjusting the high flow vacuum within the conduit path responsive to the sensor information.

Abstract: A storage, retrieval and processing system for processing objects is disclosed. The storage, retrieval and processing system includes a plurality of storage bins providing storage of a plurality of objects, where the plurality of storage bins is in communication with a retrieval conveyance system, a programmable motion device in communication with the retrieval conveyance system for receiving the storage bins from the plurality of bins, where the programmable motion device includes an end effector for grasping and moving a selected object out of a selected storage bin, and a movable carriage for receiving the selected object from the end effector of the programmable motion device, and for carrying the selected object to one of a plurality of destination bins.

Abstract: A device for reducing the aerodynamic drag on a tractor-trailer is mounted on the tractor roof and includes an upwardly inclined rearwardly extending top surface having its leading edge faired into the tractor roof. The device has side walls which extend generally vertically to connect the outer edge of the top surface of the device with the roof of the tractor. A central portion of the leading edge is recessed rearwardly of a roof mounted equipment device and defines a central top surface portion which extends upwardly from the recessed leading edge into tangency with the top surface. Laterally spaced walls depend vertically from the inboard edges of the top surface portions spaced laterally of the central top surface portion and merge with the central top surface portion and the tractor roof to cooperate therewith and with the roof mounted equipment device to define a recessed channel which imparts a low drag streamline curvature to the airflow.

Abstract: A device for reducing the aerodynamic drag on a tractor-trailer is mounted on the tractor roof and includes a upwardly inclined rearwardy extending top surface having its leading edge faired into the tractor roof. The device has sidewalls which extend generally vertically to connect the outer edge of the top surface of the device with the roof of the tractor. The width of the device is substantially less at its leading edge than at its trailing edge. The vertical sidewalls connecting the tractor roof and the top surface may follow a linear, convex, or concave-convex path as they progress from front to rear and function to provide airflow streamlining around the trailer sides. The invention provides formulas by which the angle of rearward inclination for the optimum streamlining of airflow over the trailer roof may be calculated. Formulas are provided for devices having a top surface of either planar or curvilinear configuration.