Abstract: Systems and methods which provide an adjustable tine clamp configuration are shown. Embodiments provide an adjustable support member configuration which is adapted to maintain a desired geometry of tines throughout an adjustable range. The adjustable support members are preferably adjustable to provide selectable clamping widths, such as to accommodate manipulation of goods of different sizes and shapes. Embodiments utilize parallel links coupled to pivoting tine supports to maintain proper tine geometry throughout the full range of adjustment. Such parallel links are further preferably utilized to actuate associated tines in operation of the adjustable tine clamp. Embodiments further implement a short stroke actuator configuration to facilitate very rapid production cycles.

Abstract: A system, method and apparatus for handling and moving a layer of articles, such as cased products. The system and apparatus comprise a hood enclosure having four side panels, and four interconnected corner member. The side walls and corner members interoperate to form an adjustable enclosure to pick the layer of articles. A vacuum generate is utilized to evacuate air from the hood enclosure to assist in lifting the layer of articles. The hood enclosure may utilize an array of vacuum cups to assist in the lifting of articles into the hood enclosure. The method is directed towards utilizing the hood layer end effector to move and hand articles.

Abstract: A method and system for precisely stacking bags by transferring them from a conveyor system onto a bag stacking table that allows the bags to be stacked in a uniform alignment without risking damage to the ends of the bags. As the conveyor feeds bags onto the bag stacking table, the speed of the bag is reduced until it reaches a predetermined stationary position. A friction paddle is used to slow each bag and send a signal to a cylinder to incrementally lower the grid table so that each bag can be stacked with relative accuracy in a way that does not disrupt the normal feed of bags from the conveyor system. Once each set of bags has been stacked, it is removed from the bag stacking table and the process can be repeated.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for automating the depalletization process. A vacuum hood is used to capture palletized goods one layer at a time using slip sheets that form barriers between the layers of goods stacked on a pallet. The walls of the vacuum hood form a seal with the slip sheet in order to seize the goods within the vacuum hood and remove the goods from the pallet. Each layer of goods may then be deposited on a conveyor system where the slip sheet is removed and the goods can be further processed or subdivided using conventional conveyor separation and alignment techniques.

Abstract: A depalletizing apparatus for separating stacked objects from a stack. In one embodiment, the depalletizing apparatus comprises a clamping assembly having a moveable arm with a proximal and distal end, the proximal end of the arm being operatively coupled to a first robotic mechanism and the distal end being operatively coupled to a clamp mechanism configured to close and secure the divider, wherein the divider is manipulated by movement of the arm, and a separating assembly having a separator arm configured to be inserted into the stack in the proximity of the divider that is engaged by the clamping assembly, wherein the separator is inserted into the stack at a position at or below the divider and the collection of stacked objects are positioned for depalletizing by formation of a gap between the collection of stacked objects and the divider.

Abstract: A system is provided for qualifying a stack of generally flat, paper, cardboard, and the like. The system includes a robotic mechanism having a plurality of joints that provide varying degrees of motion and a robotic implement attachable to the robotic mechanism. The robotic mechanism is operable to articulate the robotic implement through various degrees of angular and linear motion. The robotic implement includes a first support barrier, a second support barrier disposed in generally parallel relation with the first support barrier, and a third support barrier extending between the first and second support barriers and connecting the first and second support barriers therewith. Together, the first, second and third support barriers form an open cross-section that defines a bay for supporting the stack. The cross-section includes an open side opposite the third support barrier for receiving an unqualified stack and dispensing a qualified stack.

Abstract: A robotic palletizing apparatus includes a conveyor and retractable product support having a support surface controllably extending beyond one end of the conveyor to support the bottom of an article beyond the conveyor end and retracting from the extended position such that the article supported thereon falls substantially flat from its otherwise supported condition.

Abstract: A Method of stacking product directly from a conveyor, comprising the steps of conveying a product toward the end of a conveyor; supporting a leading edge of the produce as the leading edge exists the conveyor; releasing the leading edge and a following edge of the product with such timing as to cause the product to fall substantially flat onto a platform; and articulating the conveyor, whereby product is stacked in a pattern.

Abstract: A variable leverage mechanism for variably leveraging the force of a piston and cylinder assembly in a high-pressure rubber bale clamp. The device may include a toggle or cam or other suitable variable leverage mechanism. The device compresses rubber bales immediately after manufacture so as to facilitate packaging and transport.

Abstract: A gantry robot protection apparatus for protecting the bearings of a gantry robot from contamination.