Abstract: Container gripping systems and methods may include a plurality of arm assemblies and at least one fork assembly that are configured to align, grip, lift, transfer, and release a layer of containers between locations. Each of the plurality of arm assemblies and the at least one fork assembly of a container gripping apparatus may move between respective retracted positions, in which portions of containers are gripped or supported, and extended positions, in which portions of containers are released or unsupported. Further, a movement device, such as a robotic arm, may couple to a container gripping apparatus and may manipulate the apparatus to align, grip, lift, transfer, and release a layer of containers between locations.

Abstract: Container depalletization systems and methods may include various example depalletizing stations including a frame and a plurality of fork assemblies. For example, the frame may receive a stack of containers, and the plurality of fork assemblies may engage, lift, lower, and release layers of containers from the stack of containers to downstream stations or processes. In addition, the example depalletizing stations may include transfer elevator assemblies that may receive layers of containers from the plurality of fork assemblies and transfer the layers of containers to downstream stations or processes. Further, the example depalletizing stations may include movable frames that may move between a first position, at which layers of containers may be engaged and lifted by the plurality of fork assemblies, and a second position, at which layers of containers may be lowered and released by the plurality of fork assemblies and transferred to downstream stations or processes.