Patent ID: 8583277
Filing Date: 2013-11-12
Classification: B65G

Abstract:
1. A method to palletize packages using an automated manipulator, comprising the steps of: in a control unit that operates an automated manipulator having a gripper, storing a sequence of respective grip positions of packages, said grip positions respectively defining a position that must be occupied by said gripper in order to grip a respective package; automatically checking respective grip positions in a supply of packages provided to said automated manipulator for palletizing by said automated manipulator; operating said automated manipulator with said control unit to palletize said packages according to a predetermined initial palletizing pattern as long as said packages in said supply of packages are supplied in said respective grip positions; and with said control unit, operating said manipulator to palletize said packages according to an alternate palletizing pattern, differing from said initial palletizing pattern, dependent on multiple available storage areas for said packages, if one of said packages in said supply of packages is not supplied in a grip position in said sequence.