Multi-modal package handling tool and system

A multi-modal package handling tool, comprising:

• a tool platform comprising a space frame;
• a plurality of package-carrying vacuum units arranged in a generally planar array, with said vacuum units being attached to a first portion of said space frame;
• a plurality of package grippers mounted within said space frame adjacent said generally planar array, with said package grippers having at least a retracted position inboard of said planar array and an extended position outboard of said planar array;
• and
• a slidingly deployable package platform mounted to said space frame.

A multi-modal package handling system, comprising:

• a robot having a robot arm operable along a plurality of axes;
• a tool platform attached to said robot arm;
• a plurality of package-carrying vacuum units arranged in a generally planar array, with said vacuum units being attached to a first portion of said tool platform;
• a plurality of extensible package grippers mounted to said tool platform, with said extensible grippers having at least a retracted position and an extended position;
• and
• a controller for operating said robot, said vacuum units, and said package grippers.

A method for picking up a package, comprising the steps of:

• determining at least one characteristic of a package being picked up;
• communicating said determined characteristic to a controller;
• using the controller to select from a plurality of package attachment systems carried upon an end of arm tool, with said controller making the selection based upon said characteristic;
• presenting at least one selected package attachment system to a package by means of a robot having the end of arm tool attached thereto, and with said robot being operated by said controller;
• and
• attaching the package to the end of arm tool by means of the selected at least one package attachment system.