Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses are disclosed for automated shuttles for rapid replacement of full containers. In one embodiment, an example system may include a shuttle configured to move adjacent to an array of containers arranged in a first row and a second row, the array of containers having a first container in the first row and a second container in the second row, a first container receptacle portion configured to receive containers, the first container receptacle portion having a first conveyor, and a second container receptacle portion configured to receive containers, the second container receptacle portion having a second conveyor. The system may include a motor configured to cause the shuttle to move laterally adjacent to the array of containers.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses are disclosed for automated item redistribution systems for containers. In one embodiment, an example system may include a shuttle configured to move adjacent to an array of containers arranged in a first row and a second row, the array of containers including a first container in the first row and a second container in the second row. Example systems may include a first camera configured to image containers in the first row, a second camera configured to image containers in the second row, a first container receptacle portion configured to receive containers, and a rake arm comprising a telescoping portion and a head portion. The head portion may be configured to rotate from a flat position to an angled position. The system may be configured to clear jams in individual containers of the array of containers using the rake arm.

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: Systems, methods, and apparatuses are disclosed for automated container shaking systems. In one embodiment, an example container shaking system may include a first support disposed at a first side of a first container slot, a second support disposed at a second side of the first container slot, and a first moveable platform disposed on the first support and the second support. The first moveable platform may be configured to slide on the first support and the second support, and the first moveable platform may be configured to receive a first container. The system may include a first actuator coupled to the first moveable platform, the first actuator configured to push and pull the first moveable platform, and an optional first sensor configured to detect an item deposited into the first container. Feedback from the first sensor may optionally be used to trigger the first actuator.

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.

Abstract: A system and method for automated palletization of totes and cuboid containers includes an end effector having fingers projecting outwardly. The fingers may engage recesses in the totes. Alternatively, actuators on fixed fingers can move gripping surfaces into engagement with the totes or containers. Or actuators on a body of the end effector can move the fingers, which include gripping surfaces.

Abstract: A method of applying a label to a transport structure includes receiving the label from a label dispenser with an end effector, in which the label includes information related to a plurality of storage containers secured to the transport structure with a restraining member. The method further includes measuring a position of the end effector relative to an object, moving the end effector with the label to a target position based upon the measured position, and applying the label to the restraining member with the end effector. The method may further include moving the end effector away from the storage containers, and transporting the transport structure with the storage containers and the label based upon the information of the label.

Abstract: A system and method for automated palletization of totes and cuboid containers includes an end effector having fingers projecting outwardly. The fingers may engage recesses in the totes. Alternatively, actuators on fixed fingers can move gripping surfaces into engagement with the totes or containers. Or actuators on a body of the end effector can move the fingers, which include gripping surfaces.

Abstract: A system and method for automated palletization of totes and cuboid containers includes an end effector having fingers projecting outwardly. The fingers may engage recesses in the totes. Alternatively, actuators on fixed fingers can move gripping surfaces into engagement with the totes or containers. Or actuators on a body of the end effector can move the fingers, which include gripping surfaces.