Device Includes Vertically Swinging Arm And Receptacle Support Pivotably Attached Thereto Patents (Class 414/408)
  • Patent number: 6655894
    Abstract: A refuse collection vehicle is provided with a dual chute system for receiving sorted refuse from curbside containers that have one or two compartments. A powered lifting system elevates the curbside container, dumping sorted refuse into the dual chute system. A divided diverter plate with two panel portions present within the vehicle chute allows an operator to direct refuse into selected, segregated storage compartments within the refuse vehicle. In this manner, presorted refuse from the curbside container may be collected without any intermingling of such presorted refuse. The diverter plate has one driven portion and one free swinging portion. These portions may be joined by a temporary link to allow the free swinging panel portion to be positioned by the driven panel portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Inventor: Claude Boivin
  • Patent number: 6648576
    Abstract: An improved hydraulic system and method of operating same for waste collection vehicles is provided where a closed center valve in conjunction with a positive displacement pump is used without the need for increasing engine RPM, thus significantly reducing vehicle noise during operation of the hydraulic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: McClain Industries
    Inventors: Charles A. Duell, Thomas E. Pfeifer
  • Patent number: 6644906
    Abstract: A self-adapting refuse receptacle lift has a carriage for raising and dumping the contents of a refuse receptacle into a collection load box or refuse gathering vehicle. The carriage is carried on extending arms, the rotation of which may be controlled with a hydraulic or other powered drive device. The carriage includes attachments comprising a pair of moveable clamp arms. The clamp arms have self-adapting features so that a variety of receptacles of different sizes and shapes may be lifted by the apparatus. Sequencing elements rotate the clamp arms down from a vertical stored position into a horizontal position for clamping a receptacle to be dumped. Then, the entire carriage is raised for inverting and dumping and the contents of the receptacle, and then reverse operations follow, whereby the clamp arms return to an upright stored vertical position to be out of the way during the movement of a refuse collecting vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Assignee: Bayne Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Jimmy O. Bayne
  • Publication number: 20030202870
    Abstract: A refuse collection vehicle having a vehicle chassis including a vehicle cab and frame with a vehicle body mounted on top of the frame. The vehicle body has a front receiving hopper separated from a rear storage compartment by means of a partition having an aperture for passage of refuse. A pendular packing device having a refuse engaging face is pivotally mounted within the receiving hopper and arcuately swings to rapidly transfer refuse through the aperture. In order to empty the storage compartment, a rear door is opened to permit egress of refuse and the partition moves longitudinally along the vehicle body to displace refuse out of the storage compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2002
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventor: Simon Huang
  • Patent number: 6632064
    Abstract: The invention is directed to methods, apparatus and systems for retrofitting existing containers for use with vehicles having lifting forks for elevating and maneuvering such containers, and retrofitting the vehicle forks, as well as constructing new equipment to include the invention. An apparatus according to the invention includes a liner formed from a vibration absorbing material for insertion into a pocket associated with a container. Alternatively to or in conjunction with the liner, either a glove formed from a vibration absorbing material can be inserted over a lifting fork on a fork bearing, lifting apparatus, or a rail formed from a vibration absorbing material can be fitted to at least a portion of a lifting fork on the fork bearing, lifting apparatus. The invention is also directed to methods relating to the use and incorporation of the apparatus, and systems incorporating more than one component thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2003
    Assignee: American Container and Recycling, Incorporated
    Inventors: Steve Walker, John d'Arc Lorenz
  • Publication number: 20030165374
    Abstract: A refuse collection vehicle is provided with a dual chute system for receiving sorted refuse from curbside containers that have one or two compartments. A powered lifting system elevates the curbside container, dumping sorted refuse into the dual chute system. A divided diverter plate with two panel portions present within the vehicle chute allows an operator to direct refuse into selected, segregated storage compartments within the refuse vehicle. In this manner, presorted refuse from the curbside container may be collected without any intermingling of such presorted refuse. The diverter plate has one driven portion and one free swinging portion. These portions may be joined by a temporary link to allow the free swinging panel portion to be positioned by the driven panel portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: Claude Boivin
  • Publication number: 20030152447
    Abstract: An automated container loader for mounting to the side of a vehicle adapted for collecting the contents of curbside residential waste containers. The vehicle has a vehicle body longitudinally attached to the vehicle chassis. The automated container loader is attached to the vehicle chassis by means of a slide and positioned adjacent the side of the vehicle body. The container loader is equipped with a lift arm having a gripping element comprising a gripper housing having an opposing pair of gripping jaws. The gripping jaws are pivotally attached to the gripper housing on opposite sides to their respective arms, thereby creating a cross-pivoting arrangement. The distance between the free ends of the gripping jaws is thereby reduced when in the open position. The cross-pivoting arrangement further allows the container loader to have a thin overall width, accomplished through use of a non-folding single-section gripping jaw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventors: Lynn Donald Schreiber, Simon Huang
  • Publication number: 20030099529
    Abstract: A lifter including a motor which is secured to a base, the motor having a shaft rotatable about a first axis. At least one lift arm is secured to the rotatable shaft, with at least one actuator arm pivotally mounted to the base for rotation about a second axis displaced from the axis of the rotatable shaft. A carriage is provided that has two hooks for selectively engaging the spaced-apart bars that are on the container that is to be lifted, the hooks being selectively engageable with the bars so as to secure the container to the carriage during the dumping action. The first and second hooks are connected to each other by a telescoping member, one end of the telescoping member being rigidly connected to the lift arm and the other end of the telescoping member being pivotally connected to the actuator arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2003
    Publication date: May 29, 2003
    Inventors: Ramiro Arrez, Carlos Arrez
  • Patent number: 6565305
    Abstract: A mounting system for mounting a container handling device on a refuse gathering vehicle accomplishes the mounting in a manner which enables translation of the device between deployed and stowed positions so that the container handling device is protected and out of the way when not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Tracy L. Schrafel
  • Patent number: 6551046
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lifting and tipping device for emptying containers into the loading opening of a collecting container, especially for emptying refuse containers (50) into the collecting container (12) of a refuse truck (10). The lifting and tipping device (5) has a swivel drive device (32) in the area of the loading opening (14) to which at least one swivel arm (38) with a device (46) for receiving a container is connected with a non-positive fit. The aim of the invention is to provide a lifting and tipping device (5a, 5b) which is as compact as possible and in which the device (46) for receiving a container moves substantially from the bottom upwards without a significant horizontal component when it take hold of the refuse container (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Zoller Holding GmbH
    Inventor: Gerald Dorrington
  • Patent number: 6547505
    Abstract: An improved hydraulic system and method of operating same for waste collection vehicles is provided where a closed center valve in conjunction with a positive displacement pump is used without the need for increasing engine RPM, thus significantly reducing vehicle noise during operation of the hydraulic system
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: McClain Industries
    Inventors: Charles A. Duell, Thomas E. Pfeifer
  • Publication number: 20030053895
    Abstract: A mounting system for mounting a container handling device on a refuse gathering vehicle accomplishes the mounting in a manner which enables translation of the device between deployed and stowed positions so that the container handling device is protected and out of the way when not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2001
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Applicant: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Tracy L. Schrafel
  • Publication number: 20030031543
    Abstract: A refuse collection vehicle, comprising a cab, a chassis with loading container for refuse, a side loading device for picking up refuse containers and emptying them, a press device for compressing and image means for taking an image of the working area of the side loading device. The image-taking means are connected to image-display means in the cab; furthermore actuating means are provided, which are disposed in the cab, for intervening in the operation of the at least partially automatic side loading device, which actuating means comprise a “hold-to-run” button. A driver is able to view the entire working area of the side loading device and, if desired, of the press device with the aid of image-taking means, on the image-display means in the cab, and can intervene, when hazardous situations arise or one of these devices begins to function incorrectly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Applicant: Geesink, B.V.
    Inventor: Heinrich Johannes Elbrink
  • Patent number: 6503045
    Abstract: A lifter including a motor which is secured to a base, the motor having a shaft rotatable about a first axis. At least one lift arm is secured to the rotatable shaft, with at least one actuator arm pivotally mounted to the base for rotation about a second axis displaced from the axis of the rotatable shaft. A carriage is provided that has two hooks for selectively engaging the spaced-apart bars that are on the container that is to be lifted, the hooks being selectively engageable with the bars so as to secure the container to the carriage during the dumping action. The first and second hooks are connected to each other by a telescoping member, one end of the telescoping member being rigidly connected to the lift arm and the other end of the telescoping member being pivotally connected to the actuator arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Perkins Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Ramiro Arrez, Carlos Arrez
  • Publication number: 20030002965
    Abstract: An automatic refuse container latch that is adapted to receive one of the opposed, outwardly-extending portions of a trunnion for a refuse container in order to secure the refuse container to a refuse collection vehicle. The latch comprises a forward stop that is adapted to be secured to the refuse collection vehicle and which forms a part of a channel for slidingly receiving one of the outwardly extending portions of the trunnion. An elongated locking arm is provided that has first and second ends with a pivot connection intermediate the first and second ends. The pivot connection is slidingly secured to an elongated track. A piston actuator is provided comprising a cylinder and a rod, with the rod being movable between a retracted and an extended position. A locking ear is provided for capturing the second end of the locking arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventors: Bruce D. Yakley, James C. White, Mark A. Wittak, Andrew F. Desotell
  • Patent number: 6474928
    Abstract: A versatile system for seizing, tilting and dumping refuse containers is disclosed that includes a maneuverable, multi-position container grasping device attached to a refuse collection vehicle for handling curbside containers during collection efforts and emptying the containers at a plurality of positions relative to the vehicle charging hopper. A container grabbing mechanism is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald E. Christenson
  • Publication number: 20020159870
    Abstract: A container handling system is disclosed, including subsystems for accessing, grabbing, lifting and tipping collection containers into the charging compartment of a collection vehicle, or the like, and thereafter returning emptied containers to their pick up locations. The invention includes an automated, short radius pivot arm capable of operation in close quarters which may further be mounted to and operated by means of a hydraulic rotary actuator. Electronic control is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Applicant: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Claudiu D. Pruteanu, Gregory P. Dantzman, Ronald E. Christenson
  • Publication number: 20020154973
    Abstract: An automated side loader including an automated arm, lateral extension arm, and waste container latching mechanism all attached to the chassis of the vehicle via a lateral extension arm housing and support brackets and includes a swing arm, disposed between the lateral extension arm and the waste container latching mechanism, and a central plate wherein the central plate and swing arm arrangement reduces the stress associated with lifting heavy waste containers and reduces the amount of whip associated with rapidly lifting the waste container along a curvilinear path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Inventors: Steve Bradshaw, Ricky Martinez, Phillip Sweet
  • Patent number: 6461098
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for collecting and transporting cement and concrete waste. The apparatus comprises a container, a cart for supporting and moving the container, and lifting means attached to the frame of a cement truck for lifting the cart and container off the ground for transport. The apparatus may be stored on a cement truck so that the apparatus and method can be used at any job site where the cement truck is present. Use of the disclosed method and apparatus prevents disposal of cement and concrete waste in an unlawful or unsightly manner and allows the cement and concrete waste to be returned to a cement and concrete production facility and recycled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Kevan P. Elefsrud
  • Publication number: 20020141855
    Abstract: A refuse receptacle lifter is disclosed which is movable between a retracted and a dumping position for lifting and inverting refuse receptacles of the type including spaced apart upper and lower engagement surfaces. The lifter may include an actuator with a rotary output shaft, a lift arm attached to the rotary output shaft, an upper engagement member carried at least in part by the lift arm, a first actuator arm pivotally mounted to the lift arm and a second actuator arm pivotally mounted to the base. The actuator arms are attached to an extension assembly that carries a lower engagement member. Upon rotation of the output shaft, the upper engagement member is moved between a lower retracted position and a raised position and the lower engagement member is moved between a retracted position and an extended position, for lifting and inverting a refuse receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventors: Ramiro Arrez, Carlos Arrez
  • Publication number: 20020141854
    Abstract: A lifting device for lifting and tilting a refuse container includes a base, a drive unit mounted to the base and having a rotatable output shaft, a carriage for engaging and lifting the refuse container, at least one lift arm having a first end carried by the output shaft and a second end associated with the carriage, and at least one actuator arm having a first end pivotably carried by the base and a second end pivotably associated with the carriage. One of the lift arm or the actuator arm is pivotable at a location along the length thereof to allow movement of the carriage relative to the base and independent of rotation of the output shaft allowing movement of the carriage in response to obstacles or road debris so as to prevent damage to the lifter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2002
    Publication date: October 3, 2002
    Inventors: Ramiro Arrez, Carlos Arrez
  • Patent number: 6448898
    Abstract: A signaling device is mated with a conventional container to develop a change in state for indicating that the container has been accessed. The change in state can be developed manually, or automatically when the cover of the container is opened, to signal that the container has been accessed, and can be automatically returned to the initial state as part of the procedures used to empty the container. The signaling device is used in combination with a system for auditing a refuse collection process so that subscribers to the service can be charged for service according to usage. This then motivates the subscribers to call for collections of their refuse only from containers that are substantially full, or to compensate the refuse collection service for additional container pick-ups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Cardinal Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: John P. Kasik
  • Publication number: 20020119034
    Abstract: A lifter is disclosed suitable for mounting on the underside of a refuse collection hopper of a refuse collection vehicle for dumping refuse collection containers into the refuse collection hopper. The lifter may include a lifter support movable between a first position below the hopper and a second position spaced from the first position, and a lifter carriage carried by the lifter support and pivotally movable between a retracted position and an extended position for lifting and inverting refuse collection containers to dump the refuse into the collection hopper. A power source is operatively connected to the lifter support and lifter carriage to move the lifter support between the first and second positions and the lifter carriage between a retracted and extended positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventors: Ramiro Arrez, Carlos Arrez
  • Patent number: 6422800
    Abstract: The system is for use in a front loader assembly for refuse vehicles, which include two spaced fork members which are secured to a cross-member, which in turn are supported by lift arms which move the load supported on the forks into the refuse truck. The system includes flexure beams which are formed by cutout portions in a sensing portion of each fork. The flexure beams are located symmetrically about a centerline of a sensing section of each fork, and alternate between two different lengths, with the flexure beams of each length being in alignment. Three sets of long cutout portions and 3 sets of short cutout portions are included, in addition to a central pair of cutout portions on which the strain gauges are mounted. The sensing section of the fork is configured to provide the necessary stiffness with the plurality of flexure beams therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventors: Keith W. Reichow, Bill Zimmerman
  • Patent number: 6413030
    Abstract: A stop bar for use in a refuse collection vehicle with a rear hopper having an opening defined by sidewalls, an upper edge, and a loading sill. The stop bar includes an elongated bar with support arms secured to each of its ends. The support arms are pivotally mounted to the sidewalls of the hopper and two stops are provided for limiting the pivoting movement of the stop bar between a first, non-engaged position and a second, fully engaged position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Leach Company
    Inventors: Gary A. Jones, James C. White, John A. Zaborsky
  • Patent number: 6413031
    Abstract: An automatic refuse container latch that is adapted to receive one of the opposed, outwardly-extending portions of a trunnion for a refuse container in order to secure the refuse container to a refuse collection vehicle. The latch comprises a forward stop that is adapted to be secured to the refuse collection vehicle and which forms a part of a channel for slidingly receiving one of the outwardly extending portions of the trunnion. An elongated locking arm is provided that has first and second ends with a pivot connection intermediate the first and second ends. The pivot connection is slidingly secured to an elongated track. A piston actuator is provided comprising a cylinder and a rod, with the rod being movable between a retracted and an extended position. A locking ear is provided for capturing the second end of the locking arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2002
    Assignee: Leach Company
    Inventors: Bruce D. Yakley, James C. White, Mark C. Wittak, Andrew P. Desotell
  • Publication number: 20020071749
    Abstract: A refuse collection apparatus is adapted to grab and lift a refuse container, dump the contents thereof into a collection bin, and return the container to its original location. The apparatus includes a container grab assembly which includes a pair of opposed grabbing arms that are aligned in spaced relationship and operable by a fluid-operated actuating system to grab and release a container. The apparatus also includes an articulated, moveable arm assembly that is operable by a fluid-operated actuating system through an operating cycle that includes retracted, extended, lifting and dumping positions. The arm assembly includes a base link that is mounted adjacent to the collection bin and an upper link having a first end and a second end. The apparatus also includes a reach link also having a first end and a second end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventors: Henry M. Hund, Mark A. Keller
  • Publication number: 20020071748
    Abstract: A lifter including a motor which is secured to a base, the motor having a shaft rotatable about a first axis. At least one lift arm is secured to the rotatable shaft, with at least one actuator arm pivotally mounted to the base for rotation about a second axis displaced from the axis of the rotatable shaft. A carriage is provided that has two hooks for selectively engaging the spaced-apart bars that are on the container that is to be lifted, the hooks being selectively engageable with the bars so as to secure the container to the carriage during the dumping action. The first and second hooks are connected to each other by a telescoping member, one end of the telescoping member being rigidly connected to the lift arm and the other end of the telescoping member being pivotally connected to the actuator arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2000
    Publication date: June 13, 2002
    Inventors: Ramiro Arrez, Carlos Arrez
  • Patent number: 6390758
    Abstract: Side-loading refuse vehicles are disclosed including an offset or recessed hopper section having at least one recessed side which accommodates a loading bin or bucket which is moveable between a lowered position and a raised dumping position. Followers attached to the bucket on each end are engaged in candy cane shaped guide channels situated at the front and rear of the hopper. The guide channels are angled away from the base of the hopper and curved into the top of the hopper to guide the bucket in an angled and arcuate path over the sidewall of the hopper which is built to accommodate the bucket. In some embodiments, a bin handler is built in to the bucket or an automated arm is provided for dumping refuse cans or containers directly into the hopper. The refuse vehicles may have side-loading buckets on one or both sides of the vehicle and the vehicles may be single or multiple compartment vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Garwin McNeilus, Ronald E. Christenson, Wilbur R. Harris
  • Patent number: 6379034
    Abstract: A device for emptying a storage and transport container for liquids has a base frame, a pivot frame pivotably connected to the base frame, and a pivot drive connected to the pivot frame. The pivot frame has an initial low position and an upper pivot end position. The pivot drive can pivot the pivot frame from the initial low position into the upper pivot end position and from the upper pivot end position into the initial low position. The pivot frame receives the storage and transport container in the initial low position and secures the storage and transport container in the upper pivot end position. The upper pivot end position is the emptying position of the storage and transport container received on the pivot frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Protechna S.A.
    Inventor: Udo Schütz
  • Patent number: 6357988
    Abstract: A divided cart has plural waste compartments and a divided intermediate transfer container has corresponding plural compartments. A deflector assembly on the intermediate transfer container deflects waste into the respective compartments as the divided cart is dumped. The deflector assembly is movable, such as comprised of flexible material, to also deflect waste in its segregated state into further corresponding compartments of a waste collection vehicle. A lift mechanism carried on the intermediate transfer container has a lifting plate which positions the divided cart so that contents of its plural waste compartments dump respectively into the corresponding plural compartments of the divided intermediate transfer container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignee: Bayne Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventor: Jimmy O. Bayne
  • Patent number: 6350098
    Abstract: Vehicle mounted container handling devices including a rotating swivel mount and an articulated arm connected to the swivel mount are disclosed. The swivel mount includes a housing operable to rotate about a shaft in a first plane. The articulated arm is attached at one end to the housing and disposed to pivot in a second plane which intersects the first plane. A grasping device is pivotally connected to the free end of the articulated arm for pivoting in the second plane. In operation, with the grasping device opened, the articulated arm is extended to reach out toward a container of interest. The swivel mount is operated to pivot the articulated arm as required for the grasping device to engage the container. The articulated arm is operated further to lift and dump the container in the vehicle above the swivel mount. The grasping device includes arms pivotally connected to a support member and moved by actuators pivotally connected between the arms and the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald E. Christenson, Garwin McNeilus
  • Patent number: 6332745
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Assignee: Galion Solid Waste Equipment Co.
    Inventors: Charles A. Duell, Thomas E. Pfeifer, Larry D. Horning
  • Patent number: 6325587
    Abstract: A segregated waste collection system for collecting segregated waste from a distant location and moving the collected segregated waste to a centralized collection station, while maintaining the segregated state of the waste. The segregated waste collection system comprises a waste container, a transfer container, and a collection vehicle, each of which has corresponding compartments for storing the segregated waste. The waste from the waste container is transferred to the transfer container and is then transferred to the collection vehicle. A deflector on the transfer container aligned with the transfer container divider and operable between a fill position and a dump position. In the fill position, the divider deflects the waste container contents from the waste compartments into the corresponding transfer compartments. In the dump position, the deflector deflects the contents from the transfer compartments into the corresponding storage compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2001
    Assignee: Cascade Engineerig, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward H. Wysocki, Jimmy O. Bayne
  • Publication number: 20010046430
    Abstract: A self-adapting refuse receptacle lift has a carriage for raising and dumping the contents of a refuse receptacle into a collection load box or refuse gathering vehicle. The carriage is carried on extending arms, the rotation of which may be controlled with a hydraulic or other powered drive device. The carriage includes attachments comprising a pair of moveable clamp arms. The clamp arms have self-adapting features so that a variety of receptacles of different sizes and shapes may be lifted by the apparatus. Sequencing elements rotate the clamp arms down from a vertical stored position into a horizontal position for clamping a receptacle to be dumped. Then, the entire carriage is raised for inverting and dumping and the contents of the receptacle, and then reverse operations follow, whereby the clamp arms return to an upright stored vertical position to be out of the way during the movement of a refuse collecting vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: Jimmy O. Bayne
  • Patent number: 6312209
    Abstract: An improved hydraulic system and method of operating same for waste collection vehicles is provided where a closed center valve in conjunction with a positive displacement pump is used without the need for increasing engine RPM, thus significantly reducing vehicle noise during operation of the hydraulic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2001
    Inventors: Charles A. Duell, Thomas E. Pfeifer
  • Patent number: 6224317
    Abstract: A refuse collection vehicle is disclosed for loading refuse from a front loading container having a floor, a front wall, a rear wall, first and second side walls and first and second channels along the first and second side walls, and also from a rear loader container having a floor, a front wall, a rear wall, first and second side walls and at least one trunnion having first and second trunnion end portions extending beyond the first and second side walls, respectively. The collection vehicles includes a chassis, a storage body supported by the chassis and having an interior with a roof above the interior providing an opening into the interior and first and second lift arms pivotably coupled to the chassis. The refuse collection vehicle further includes a loader adapter coupled to the first and second lift arms. The loader adapter includes first and second forks, first and second trunnion encircling mechanisms, at least one support arm and at least one container stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Kann Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Dirk C. Kann, Virgil L. Collins, Richard T. Williams
  • Patent number: 6213706
    Abstract: A loading device mounted to a collection vehicle is disclosed. The loading device may comprise several embodiments for scooping a soft-sided object through either a horizontal or vertical plane. The loading device is attached to a mechanized arm for compound angular displacement and operable between a stowed, extended, lift, and dump positions. A swivel mount interconnects the mechanized arm to the collection vehicle and further compounds the angular displacement and operating positions of the loading device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2001
    Assignee: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald E. Christenson
  • Patent number: 6183185
    Abstract: A loader assembly carried by a semi trailer having a chassis, a body carried by the chassis, a forward end, and a rearward end, the forward end of the chassis coupled to a towing vehicle having a cab, the loader assembly including a pair of forwardly extendible, generally horizontal arms overlying the cab, each arm having a first end coupled to the semi trailer proximate the forward end, and a second end extending forwardly passed the cab. The arms are pivotable about a horizontal axis between a raised position rearward of the cab and a lowered position. A lifting assembly is coupled to the arms for engaging refuse containers forward of the cab in the lowered position and discharging refuse containers rearward of the cab and into the body in the raised position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Assignee: Heil Co.
    Inventors: Jerald G. Zanzig, Marcel G. Stragier, John W. Pickrell
  • Patent number: 6174126
    Abstract: A refuse collection vehicle including a collection towing vehicle having a refuse loading mechanism for loading a semi-trailer coupled to a fifth wheel, the semi-trailer having a refuse collection body for receiving refuse from the refuse loading mechanism and a hoist mechanism for tilting the refuse collection body. The refuse collection system also includes a refuse transport vehicle which includes a transport towing vehicle having a fifth wheel for receiving a semi-trailer, and a dolly which may be coupled to the semi-trailer for towing additional semi-trailers. A control assembly is coupled to the refuse collection vehicle and the transport towing vehicle including the dolly, having control couplings for interconnection of control assemblies and control umbilicals for providing control to the various devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: The Heil Co.
    Inventors: Jerald G. Zanzig, Marcel G. Stragier, John W. Pickrell
  • Patent number: 6167795
    Abstract: A refuse collection truck may be combined with a relatively larger refuse container having a cart lifting apparatus supported on such container. The truck has dump arms for selectively dumping the larger container. The cart lifting apparatus has a dumper actuator for lifting and dumping the contents of a residential refuse collection cart into the relatively larger refuse container. The container may be removably mounted on the collection truck through corresponding matable lift forks on the truck and fork channels on the container. The container preferably may be a front end load container box. Different forms of cart lifters may be used, for picking up different styles of collection carts, such as having either one or two lift pickup points (i.e., either European or domestic style carts). Different types of dumper actuator may be used, including either hydraulic or pneumatic systems, and including either rotary motors or lifting cylinder and piston combinations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2001
    Assignee: Bayne Machine Works, Inc.
    Inventors: Jimmy O. Bayne, Michael J. Susil
  • Patent number: 6158945
    Abstract: A refuse collection vehicle (10) has a body (14) into which refuse may be loaded having an exit passage (34) from which loaded refuse may be emptied. The vehicle also has arms (56) and a fork (58) for lifting a container into a dumping position over the body. A control circuit coordinates simultaneous operation of the arms and forks by monitoring the position of the arms and forks through rotary potentiometers (200, 201).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Toccoa Metal Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Anderson, Robert M. Clark, Henry Hund, Jr., Diane Henry
  • Patent number: 6152673
    Abstract: A front loading refuse collection vehicle (10) is provided having a body (12) which includes a hopper (16), a storage container (17), a pair of arms (56) coupled to a pivotal fork (58). The vehicle also has a control circuit (100) which coordinates movement of the fork with the arms. The control circuit receives the initial pickup position of the arms and fork from an arm position sensor (200) and a fork position sensor (201) when grasping a portable container. This position is later recalled to assist the operator in returning the arms and forks to these positions in order to release the portable container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Toccoa Metal Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Anderson, Robert M. Clark, Gordon D. James
  • Patent number: 6139244
    Abstract: A dumping apparatus for an industry standard conventional front loading refuse truck having a lifting mechanism for engaging a container and dumping its contents into the truck. The container has at least one upright side and supports for engagement by the refuse truck lifting apparatus. A rail having a first end and a second end is connected to the side of the container. An elongate sliding member is horizontally slidably connected to the rail. An elongate extension member is moveable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein the extension member is detachably interposed between the container and the sliding member at the second end of the rail. The rail is reversibly attachable to the container so that its first end can face in either direction. A first end of an elongate extension arm is rotatably connected to the sliding member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Wayne B. VanRaden
  • Patent number: 6123497
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Galion Solid Waste Equipment Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Charles A. Duell, Thomas E. Pfeifer, Larry D. Horning
  • Patent number: 6095744
    Abstract: A refuse collection system that includes a refuse container handling system stowed below a refuse storage hopper, all mounted on a vehicle. The refuse handling system includes a lift arm to raise and lower a single articulated arm and an extension arm to extend the lift arm from its stowed position to near a refuse container. The outer end of the extension arm includes a releasable clamp for engaging and clamping the container during lift and releasing the container when the arm returns it to the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Inventor: Ralph Harrison
  • Patent number: 6089813
    Abstract: A collection vehicle including a material handling system, storage body, compaction system, storage system, and dump system all of which have contact surface areas, wherein the surface areas are self-lubricating. The surface areas may be found in the vehicle's fluid biased cylinder bushings, tailgate hinges, storage body pivot joints, articulated joints, rotation joints, and slides. The self-lubricating, low friction, surface areas reduce wear and repair associated with conventional collection vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Garwin B. McNeilus, William P. Bartlett
  • Patent number: 6086309
    Abstract: A dumping system for various types of refuse containers is able to handle one hook or two hook containers. A simple adjustment to the lifting head moves the engaging pins into position to handle the appropriate container. In the one-hook configuration, one pin is shifted to an inoperative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: PAK MOR Company
    Inventors: Coy DeLynn Mason, Carter Thurmond
  • Patent number: 6077020
    Abstract: A garbage or recyclable material handling system uses material containers each pivotally mounted to respective supports at desired locations for movement between a lower material receiving position and a partially inverted material discharge position. At least one materials collection vehicle is provided to communicate with respective containers when in the discharge position to receive the materials discharged therefrom. This vehicle has an actuator assembly mounted thereto including an arm extendible outwardly of the vehicle and having an actuator secured to a distal end of the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Haul-All Equipment Ltd.
    Inventors: Dennis Neufeldt, Simon Hann, Lloyd Darren
  • Patent number: 6059511
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Toccoa Metal Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: James Michael Anderson, Charles Arthur Duell, Henry Michael Hund, Jr., Diane Marie Henry