Abstract: A trench box which has first and second side panels connected in parallel spaced relation by first and second lateral supports. Each lateral support comprises connection points at each end of each lateral support that connect the side panels to the lateral supports. The connection points maintain the side panels in parallel spaced relation and the lateral supports in parallel spaced relation between the side panels. Each connection point comprises a pivot connection that permits pivotal movement of the side panels relative to the lateral supports about a pivot axis, and a releasable connection spaced from the pivot connection in a direction perpendicular to the pivot axis. The releasable connection is selectively releasable to permit the respective first or second side panel to pivot about the pivot axis such that the panels are not parallel.

Abstract: A trench box has first and second side panels connected in parallel spaced relation by first and second lateral supports. Each lateral support comprises connection points at each end of each lateral support that connect the side panels to the lateral supports. The connection points maintain the side panels in parallel spaced relation and the lateral supports in parallel spaced relation between the side panels. Each connection point comprises a pivot connection that permits pivotal movement of the side panels relative to the lateral supports about a pivot axis, and a releasable connection spaced from the pivot connection in a direction perpendicular to the pivot axis. The releasable connection is selectively releasable to permit the respective first or second side panel to pivot about the pivot axis such that the panels are not parallel.

Abstract: A quick coupling apparatus for coupling a tool to a tool arm comprises a coupler member attached to the tool arm, and configured to engage a mounting bracket extending out from the tool. A wedge is mounted on the coupler member and is movable, when the coupler member and mounting bracket are engaged, from a closed position engaged in a groove on the mounting bracket to an open position where the wedge is removed from the groove. A wedge positioning mechanism selectively moves the wedge to the closed position and the open position. When the wedge moves into the groove and into the closed position, a remotely operated latch control moves a safety latch from an unlatched position to a latched position to prevent the wedge from moving toward the open position. The wedge positioning mechanism can be configured to utilize a single or double acting actuator.

Abstract: A quick coupling apparatus for coupling a tool to a tool arm comprises a coupler member attached to the tool arm, and configured to engage a mounting bracket extending out from the tool. A wedge is mounted on the coupler member and is movable, when the coupler member and mounting bracket are engaged, from a closed position engaged in a groove on the mounting bracket to an open position where the wedge is removed from the groove. A wedge positioning mechanism selectively moves the wedge to the closed position and the open position. When the wedge moves into the groove and into the closed position, a remotely operated latch control moves a safety latch from an unlatched position to a latched position to prevent the wedge from moving toward the open position. The wedge positioning mechanism can be configured to utilize a single or double acting actuator.