Abstract: An embodiment is a robotic arm end effector. The end effector generally comprises an actuator assembly, a positioning palm assembly, a claw assembly, a tamp assembly, and an end plate. The end effector of an embodiment may grasp and move bulk items. More specifically, the end effector of an embodiment may grasp bulk items and/or products contained in bags or sacks, move them, and deposit and/or stack the bags or sacks. For example, the end effector of an embodiment may grasp products such as grass or other agricultural seed contained in a synthetic (e.g., poly-weave) or natural fiber bags and stack them on a pallet.

Abstract: A harsh environment robot end effector includes an end effector frame connectable to a material handling robot, one or more pickup arms rotatingly coupled to the frame, and pickup arm airbag actuator air bags for opening and closing the pickup arms. One or more positioning palms may be provided, which are rotatingly coupled to the end effector frame and provided with actuator air bags for opening and closing. One or more adjustable pushdowns having airbags attached to their heads are provided to grip a load between the pushdown and pickup arm. A mechanical synchronizer may be provided to couple the pickup arms.

Abstract: A method for loading a sling having a bottom and sidewalls comprises placing the sling bottom on a raised platform and rolling the sidewalls down into a gutter surrounding the raised platform so that the sidewalls form a negative angle with the sling bottom. Bagged product is then loaded onto the bottom of the sling to form a stack. The sling sidewalls are then rolled up the sidewalls up the stack sides so that the sidewalls form a positive angle with the sling bottom and the sling now encloses the stack of product. The sling jig assembly includes a raised central platform on which is adapted to rest the bottom of the sling. A gutter formed about the periphery of the central platform is adapted to receive the rolled-down sidewalls of the sling.

Abstract: A method for loading a sling having a bottom and sidewalls comprises placing the sling bottom on a raised platform and rolling the sidewalls down into a gutter surrounding the raised platform so that the sidewalls form a negative angle with the sling bottom. Bagged product is then loaded onto the bottom of the sling to form a stack. The sling sidewalls are then rolled up the sidewalls up the stack sides so that the sidewalls form a positive angle with the sling bottom and the sling now encloses the stack of product. The sling jig assembly includes a raised central platform on which is adapted to rest the bottom of the sling. A gutter formed about the periphery of the central platform is adapted to receive the rolled-down sidewalls of the sling.

Abstract: A method for loading a sling having a bottom and sidewalls comprises placing the sling bottom on a raised platform and rolling the sidewalls down into a gutter surrounding the raised platform so that the sidewalls form a negative angle with the sling bottom. Bagged product is then loaded onto the bottom of the sling to form a stack. The sling sidewalls are then rolled up the sidewalls up the stack sides so that the sidewalls form a positive angle with the sling bottom and the sling now encloses the stack of product. The sling jig assembly includes a raised central platform on which is adapted to rest the bottom of the sling. A gutter formed about the periphery of the central platform is adapted to receive the rolled-down sidewalls of the sling.