Abstract: The invention contemplates an improved grapple or grab-bucket construction of the double-acting hydraulically activated variety, wherein the normal bucket-open position is determined by a stiffly yieldable abutment which yields to permit a short further energy-absorbing bucket-opening displacement in the presence of the mechanical shock encountered upon dropping the open grab bucket onto a relatively hard base to be excavated. The short further shock-induced displacement elevates hydraulic pressure in the actuation system, which elevated pressure is vented by a relief valve in common with the hydraulic actuators of all buckets in the grapple.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to an automatically controlled scraper for moving particulate material onto a radial or star feeder for distribution thereby. The scraper includes a scraper bucket suspended from a radially extending arm. The bucket is connected to both a digging cable line and a lifting cable line, each of which is in turn connected to a suitable winch. The winches are controlled by clutches and brakes, each of which are optionally activated by interconnected automatic and manual control elements, whereby operation may be selectively changed from automatic to manual at the discretion of the operator.

Abstract: This disclosure relates to an automatically controlled scraper for moving particulate material onto a radial or star feeder for distribution thereby. The scraper includes a scraper bucket suspended from a radially extending arm. The bucket is connected to both a digging cable line and a lifting cable line, each of which is in turn connected to a suitable winch. The winches are controlled by clutches and brakes, each of which are optionally activated by interconnected automatic and manual control elements, whereby operation may be selectively changed from automatic to manual at the discretion of the operator.