Systems and methods for object processing with vacuum assisted lifting

An object processing system comprising:

• a programmable motion device having an end-effector using high flow vacuum to grasp and move an object within a workspace;
• and
• a lift assistance system comprising:
• a vertical support having a base and an overhead beam;
• a lifting bellows having a first end and a second end, the first end connected to the base and the second end connected to a lifting cable, the lifting bellows closed at the second end, and the lifting cable also being attached to the end-effector;
• a high flow vacuum source fluidically connected to the lifting bellows at the first end, the high flow vacuum source including a valve to modulate the amount of vacuum provided to the lifting bellows;
• and
• at least two pulleys attached to the overhead beam, the pulleys supporting the lifting cable.

A method of moving heavy objects with a programmable motion device, the method comprising:

• providing an end-effector with the programmable motion device, the end-effector adapted to grasp the heavy object;
• providing a high flow vacuum from a high flow vacuum source to a lifting bellows, the lifting bellows providing a lift assistance to the programmable motion device;
• and
• moving the object using the programmable motion device.