Abstract: An automated refuse vehicle that provides a fast-return cycle for an engaged container, and a series of "lock-out" zones to minimize the possibility of damaging the vehicle during automated use. Methods for using an automated compacting system and for operating the refuse vehicle also form part of the present invention.

Abstract: An improved compacting system, and an automated refuse vehicle that can employ this compacting system. Alternatively, the compacting system can be used with a stationary packer. The compacting system is capable of placing the packer ram, blade or panel into a creep mode in which, even if the maximum compacting force is applied, the packing ram will generally retain its position without reversing direction for a pre-programmed interval of time. The refuse vehicle also provides a fast-return cycle for an engaged container, and a series of "lock-out" zones to minimize the possibility of damaging the vehicle during automated use. Methods for using the compacting system and for operating the refuse vehicle also form part of the present invention.

Abstract: A device for lifting and loading materials employs a pick-up arm for engaging material at ground level and an associated lift arm assembly. The pick-up arm can be swung relative to the lift arm about an axis that is generally perpendicular to the ground to bring the pick-up arm into a close-in position in front of a cab and into an outreaching position. The pick-up arm is automatically moved into the outreaching position as the lift arm moves toward a ground level load position and is automatically moved into the close-in position as the lift arm moves toward the off-load level above ground to facilitate off-loading operations above ground. The pick-up arm is also automatically maintained in a desired vertical relationship, parallel to the ground, as the lift arm moves between the load level and a predetermined level above ground level. When moved closer toward the off-load position, the pick-up arm is automatically vertically tipped to facilitate off-loading operations.