Abstract: A cushioning element includes a two-sided membrane. The membrane may be of any size and shape appropriate to a desired application. Units extend from each side of the membrane with units on one side staggered or offset from those of the other. Depressing a unit on one side of the membrane causes displacement of at least part of the other side of the membrane into the space opposite to the depressed unit. Releasing the depressed unit allows the membrane to return to at least substantially its previous position. Membrane resiliency may be consistent throughout an embodiment or part(s) may be differently resilient. Units may be consistent in resiliency, size and/or shape on one or both sides of an embodiment, or may vary on one or both sides. Membrane and units may be integrally made in whole or in part within an embodiment. The cushioning element may have vibration dampening characteristics.

Abstract: A front loading refuse collection vehicle is provided, comprising (a) a mobile vehicle including a vehicle cab and a vehicle chassis; (b) a body forming a container into which refuse may be loaded, the body mounted to the vehicle chassis and having an exit passage from which loaded refuse may be emptied; and (c) a loader device for loading refuse into the body. The loader device comprises (i) an arm which pivots about a first pivot axis located on the chassis from a loading position to an unloading position, the arm including a lifting mechanism for lifting the arm, (ii) a fork which extends from the arm and which pivots about a second pivot axis located on the arm from a loading position to an unloading position, the fork including a rotating mechanism for rotating the fork about the second pivot axis, (iii) a container mounted upon the fork, and (iv) a control circuit for coordinating simultaneous operation of the lifting mechanism and the rotating mechanism.