AU709854B2

AU709854B2 - Combination front receptacle for refuse collection

Info

Publication number: AU709854B2
Application number: AU24500/97A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Armando Godoy; Kosti Shirvanian
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 1996-04-09
Filing date: 1997-04-09
Publication date: 1999-09-09
Anticipated expiration: 2017-04-09
Also published as: NZ332417A; AU2450097A; WO1997037909A1; CA2251121A1; EP0906229A1

Description

WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 COMBINATION FRONT RECEPTACLE FOR REFUSE

COLLECTION

Cross-reference to Related Application This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S.

Patent Application Serial No. 08/797,310, filed February 7, 1997, and entitled, A RESIDENTIAL REFUSE

COLLECTION

SYSTEM, INCLUDING A FRONT RECEPTACLE WITH A CAN LIFTING MECHANISM, pending, which claims the benefit of U.S.

Provisional Application No. 60/015,062, filed on April 9, 1996, and which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

Field of the Invention This invention relates generally to a system and apparatus for collecting refuse and more particularly, to an improved refuse collection system including a can handling mechanism.

Background of the Invention A recent development in the collection of refuse has been the use of a front-loading type refuse vehicle.

Typically, these front-loading type vehicles have large dump arms with front forks which extend in front of an operators cab in order to puck up large refuse receptacles or dumpsters. The front forks are inserted into fork supporting members attached to the dumpster such that the large dump arms can pick up the dumpster and raise it over the collection vehicle and dump the refuse into the refuse hopper of the vehicle. In order to use such a frontloading type collection vehicle (most commonly used for commercial refuse collection and with large refuse WO 97/37909 PCTfUS97/05888 receptacles or dumpsters), there must be some convenient way to pick up and dump residential and similar refuse cans.

A combination front receptacle has been recently introduced to enable front-loading type refuse collection vehicles to be used for residential refuse collection.

The combination front receptacle combines an open front refuse receptacle which is mounted forwardly of the collection vehicle with a can gripping and lifting mechanism, in order to pick up (grip) a residential refuse can and to dump into contents into the receptacle to lift the residential refuse can into a position so that the contents fall into the front receptacle). Such a combination front receptacle generally can be easily mounted on the front forks of the large dump arms of the vehicle.

Because many refuse cans are now being made of plastic or other similar materials, they lend themselves easily to mechanical collection, that is, being gripped and then dumped by mechanical arm or a similar mechanism.

The use of hinged tops for such residential refuse cans has further aided the implementation of mechanical collection.

An example of a conventional combination front receptacle is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,308,211, issued to Bayne. This patent discloses a combination front receptacle mounted on the front-loading forks of the refuse collection vehicle. A can gripping and lifting mechanism is provided on the collection side of the front receptacle. The can gripping and lifting mechanism of this patent is designed to be used with only certain types and configurations of residential refuse cans.

~1111 WO 97/37909 PCT/US97/058 88 Furthermore, the residential refuse cans must be properly positioned with respect to the mechanism in order for the refuse cans to be properly gripped and lifted for dumping.

This need for exact positioning of the refuse cans before being gripped and lifted, slows down the collection process because it requires the driver or some other person to leave the vehicle and physically move the refuse can into place.

Another example of a conventional combination front receptacle is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,484,245, issued to Zopf. This patent discloses an intermediate refuse receptacle mounted on the front-loading forks of the refuse collection vehicle. The intermediate receptacle includes a side are and grabber assembly for automatically grasping a specifically configured refuse can fitted with a pair of horizontal grab bars. In operation, the side arm assembly is extended outwardly to the specially configured refuse can. The grabber assembly is then extended vertically in between the grab arms such that the refuse can is retained by; the side arm assembly The refuse can is then lifted by the side arm assembly and lifted into the intermediate receptacle. Finally, the empty refuse can is returned to its original location and the grabber and sidearm assemblies retracted.

Residential refuse collection typically requires the loading and emptying of a variety of types and sizes of refuse cans. These cans may include differing sizes, cross-sectional shapes as well as cans made from differing materials. However, most residential refuse cans are sized to hold a conventional amount of refuse. What is needed, is a combination receptacle capable of gripping and lifting a wide variety of residential refuse cans.

WO97/37909 PCTIUSg97/0 58 8 8 In addition to the problem of needing a system capable of loading and emptying the wide variety of available refuse cans, it is often necessary to load and empty a refuse dumpster or other non-can type refuse container. For example, a neighborhood having single family residences which uses refuse cans and an adjacent condominium complex which uses dumpsters. In these instances, the front or intermediate receptacle must be removed, if possible, and the dumpster then emptied.

Otherwise, the truck must return later without the combination front receptacle to empty the dumpster. Thus, there is a need for a refuse collection system which includes a front or other intermediate refuse receptacle having a refuse can handling and emptying system which is quickly and efficiently removed and reattached to the refuse collection vehicle.

Summary of the Invention The present invention enables the collection of residential refuse more quickly than the conventional methods. By employing the system and apparatus of the instant invention, a given refuse collection route can be collected more quickly and thus more economically In addition, the system and apparatus of the present invention allows refuse collection from both refuse cans and dumpsters. This capability allows both residential and commercial refuse collection within a single route.

In collecting residential refuse, many municipalities require the refuse can to be placed near the curb for collection. The system of the present invention enables a refuse collection vehicle operator to grip a refuse can (left adjacent the curb) of most any conventional size or shape, lift and dump it, without leaving the cab of the

I

WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05 8 8 8 vehicle. In addition, the system of the present invention does not require perfect placement of the refuse can next to the gripping mechanism. Thus, the present invention provides safety and efficiency not available in the conventional method of using a combination front receptacle for collecting residential refuse.

The present invention also satisfies the need for a combination front receptacle which is capable of gripping and dumping refuse cans of differing sizes and made from differing materials. By using a refuse can handling assembly having a plurality of gripping fingers, a system of the present invention can grab refuse cans having differing shapes and well as differing diameters. In addition, the need for an operator to adjust the gripping mechanism or other devices on differing cans is eliminated.

A combination front receptacle according to the present invention includes a gripping and lifting arm mechanism which is extendable or telescopic. In other words, the gripping and lifting arm mechanism is extendable to the side of the front receptacle in order to grip a refuse can which is not right next to the mechanism (also known as the refuse can handling assembly). The gripping and lifting arm are mounted on a trolley assembly which is capable of 60" of travel, however, the trolley assembly may be designed to have more or less travel as needed. This design allows the gripping and lifting arm to reach out and grab the refuse can without requiring the vehicle operator to leave the vehicle. Thus, the refuse can be dumped into the front receptacle and replace don the curb in a minimum amount of tim. Therefore, the productivity, safety and efficiency of the refuse collection is significantly increased.

WO97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 A combination front receptacle for collecting refuse with a front-loading refuse collection vehicle according the principles of the present invention includes a refuse receiving front receptacle or bucket and a refuse can handling assembly. The front receptacle is supported and retained on the front forks of the large dump arms of the refuse collection vehicle and has a bottom, a back panel, two side panels, and an open top for receiving refuse.

The refuse can handling assembly is connected to the front receptacle and includes a trolley extension for moving laterally along the front of the front receptacle, a lifting arm, pivotable on the trolley extension, and a plurality of gripping fingers operatively connected to the lifting arm, for gripping a refuse can and dumping in into the front receptacle.

Part of the refuse can handling assembly may be recessed into a recess formed in the front panel of the front receptacle. By positioning a trolley extension inside of the front panel of the front receptacle, the size of the front receptacle may be increased without increasing the total longitudinal length of the front receptacle, the trolley portion, and the lifting arm and the gripping fingers together. The increased capacity of the front receptacle is an advantage because the vehicle operator may dump more residential refuse cans into the front receptacle before needing to stop to dump the front receptacle into the main refuse hopper of the vehicle.

The combination front receptacle of the present invention includes a front receptacle having an open box shape of such generally used receptacles, with a bottom, four sides and a substantially open top. An elongated recess is formed laterally along a front side of the receptacle. A trolley extension and its supporting II I WO 97/37909 PCT/US97/058 8 8 structure are positioned inside or partially inside of the recess. The supporting structure for the trolley extension generally includes an upper and lower guide.

Adjusting elements are provided on the upper and/or lower guides so that the wearing of the guides maya be compensated for. Ideally, the upper and lower guides are made of angle rails, the trolley extension slides laterally along the upper and lower guides to extend toward the curb side of the vehicle. Furthermore, the trolley extension is preferably driven by a hydraulic cylinder.

The trolley extension carries the lifting arm, which further carries the gripping fingers, which actually grip the refuse can. The trolley extension is movable laterally with respect to the collection vehicle as well as the front receptacle. An upper guide and a lower guide mounted on the front of the combination receptacle movably support the trolley extension. The lifting arm is pivotally coupled to the distal end of the trolley extension and further carries the gripping fingers (or lever arms) which actually grip around the refuse can.

Specifically, the gripping fingers grip the refuse can around its body, then the lifting arm pivots to lift the refuse can over the side of the front receptacle and dump the contents of the refuse can into the front receptacle.

The lateral movement of the trolley extension accordingly moves the lift arm and the gripping fingers outwardly to meed the refuse can sitting by the curb. In other words, the trolley extension moves laterally until the gripping fingers touch or are close to the refuse can.

Then, the gripping fingers are closed to grab or grip the refuse can. If needed, the lifting arm may be slightly raised in order to lift the bottom of the refuse can off WO 97/37909 PCT/US97/058 8 8 the ground. Next, the trolley extension is returned to its retracted position. The lifting arm then raises the refuse can and pivots it until the contents are dumped into the front receptacle or bucket. The lifting arm then returns the refuse can to a nearly upright position, and the trolley extension returns to the extended position where it picked up the refuse can. At that point, the lifting arm sets the refuse can on the ground and the gripping fingers are pivoted open to release the refuse can. All of the elements of the refuse can handling assembly are then returned to their normal or retracted position.

A manifold assembly is mounted to the front receptacle and fluidly connected to a first fluid connect assembly half and a second fluid connect assembly half.

A first connect assembly mating half and a second connect assembly mating half are attached to the collection truck for removable connection with the respective connect assemblies on the combination front receptacle.

In another broad aspect of the present invention, the manifold assembly is a single block manifold supporting and fluidly interconnecting a plurality of proportional valves. A plurality of hydraulic control lines fluid interconnect with proportional valves to a plurality of actuators. The actuators are provided for lateral movement of the trolley assembly, pivoting of the lifting arm and gripping of the gripping fingers. A second plurality of hydraulic control lines fluidly interconnect the first and second connect fluid connect assembly halves with the manifold assembly.

In yet another broad aspect of the present invention, the manifold assembly comprises a single block manifold WO97/37909 PCT/TS97/05888 fluidly interconnecting a plurality of solenoid operated hydraulic proportional valves. An electrical connector in electrical connection with the solenoid operated hydraulic proportional valves is mounted on the front receptacle for connection with a second electrical connector on the collection vehicle. This electrical connection provides both electrical power and control signals for operation of the hydraulic proportional valves and thus the actuators of the combination front receptacle.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a retention device is coupled to said trolley extension for retaining the lifting arm while in the retracted position. In this way, the lifting arm may be secured in the lowered or retracted position while dumping the front receptacle into the main refuse receptacle of the refuse collection vehicle. The retention device includes a reversible locking or lock member attached to either said trolley extension or said front receptacle and a locking post extending outwardly from the lifting arm. The locking post fits within the reversible locking member when the lifting arm is in the lowered or retracted Position such that the reversible locking member may be locked.

In yet another broad aspect of the present invention, each of the gripping fingers has a generally opposing proximal portion which is coupled to the lifting arm.

Each of the these proximal portions are coupled through a lifting arm and extend laterally outwardly to a distal portion. The proximal portions pivot across a single plane between an open position and a closed position.

However, the distal portions are oriented downwardly and upwardly so as to overlap in the closed position. Thus, the gripping fingers provide a proximal gripping surface WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 across a single plane and yet overlap across their distal portions to allow engagement with a narrower or smaller diameter refuse can.

The invention, together with additional features and advantages thereof, which was only summarized in the foregoing passages, will become more apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading the description of the preferred embodiments, which follows in this specification, taken together with the following drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings Fig. 1 is a diagrammatic side view of a refuse collection vehicle for use with the combination front receptacle of the present invention; Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a combination front receptacle with a can lifting mechanism of the instant invention, in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 3 is a perspective view similar to Fig. 2, with dumping action occurring; Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the combination front receptacle with can lifting mechanism in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 5 is a diagrammatical illustration of a front receptacle or bucket in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 6 a diagrammatical illustration of a variation of the front receptacle or bucket in accordance with the present invention; WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 Fig. 7 is a simplified cross sectional view of the trolley extension and lifting arm of the embodiment shown in Fig. 4; Fig. 8 is a perspective view of the trolley extension of Fig. 7; Fig. 9 is a simplified cross sectional view of an alternate version of the trolley extension of Fig. 4; Fig. 10 is a perspective view of the alternate version of the trolley extension as illustrated in Fig. 9; Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the front receptacle with cam lifting mechanism in accordance with another version of the present invention; Fig. 11A is an enlarged perspective view of the trolley extension and lifting arm of Fig. 11; Fig. 11iB is an enlarged view of the support member illustrated in Fig. 11; Fig. 11C is an enlarged view of the rear roller of Fig. 11; Fig. 12 is a cut away view of the front receptacle of the version of the present invention shown in Fig. 11; Fig. 13 is an end view of the trolley extension of Fig. 11; Fig. 14A and 14B are partial perspective views of the trolley extension and lifting arm of Fig. 11 in the contracted and extended positions; WO 97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 Fig. 15 is an illustration of the gripping fingers of the version of Fig. 11; Fig. 16 is a perspective view of the combination receptacle of Fig. 11 with the lifting arm and gripping fingers indicated by dotted lines; Fig. 17 is an illustration of a portion of the combination receptacle of Fig. 11 in which the lifting arm is indicated by dotted lines and is in the raised position; and Fig. 18 is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the combination front receptacle according to the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments A combination front receptacle for refuse collection, including a front receptacle and can lifting mechanism in accordance with the present invention will be described in connection with Figs. 1-4. Specifically, Fig. 1 is a side view illustrating a typical refuse collection truck to be used with the combination front receptacle in accordance with the present invention.

The refuse collection vehicle is generally indicated by reference numeral 10. Refuse collection vehicle 10 is generally known as a front-loading refuse collection vehicle. This vehicle typically includes a forwardly positioned operator cab 12 and large dump arms 14 which are pivoted at pivot 28 and extend upwardly from the pivot point above the operator cab 12 and down toward the front of the vehicle. This design always allow access to the operator cab and is generally a safety feature. The large WO97/37909 PCTUS97/05888 dump arms 14 are preferably operated by hydraulic power.

At the end of each dump arm 44, a front-loading or front fork 16 extends forwardly. The main frame 30 of the vehicle is supported by wheels 26. A short distance behind the operator cab 12 is the main receptacle or refuse hopper 18. The refuse hopper 18 includes an opening on the top thereof in order to allow the refuse to be dumped therein. Dotted lines 33 indicate the large dump arms 14 in a dumping position. Compacting body 20 is located directly behind the refuse hopper 18. The end of compacting body 20 is covered by end cap 22 which hinges from hinge 24 and opens to allow the refuse to be dumped at a dump site.

Front receptacle 32, is illustrated in Fig. 1, rests upon front fork 16 and is supported by the large dump arms 14 as indicated by arrows 36. Front receptacle 32 may be secured to front forks 16 by a chain, pins inserted into the forks, hydraulic locks or by a myriad of other ways.

Reference numeral 34 illustrates the front receptacle 32, in the dump mode above the refuse hopper 18.

Figs. 2 and 3 show perspective views of an embodiment of a combination front receptacle 40 according to the principles of the present invention, including the front receptacle 32 and a can lifting mechanism 42. In particular, Fig. 2 illustrates the situation in which a refuse can 38 such as a typical plastic or metal garbage can is first being gripped, while Fig. 3 illustrates the situation in which the refuse can 38 is being lifted and dumped into the front receptacle 32.

The combination front receptacle 40 includes the front receptacle (or bucket) 32 and the refuse can handling assembly generally 42. (The refuse can handling WO 97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 assembly 42 is illustrated for simplicity in Figs. 2 and 3. In Fig. 4, described below, the refuse can handling assembly 42 is illustrated in more detail). Specifically, the refuse can handling assembly 42 generally includes a trolley extension 44, a lifting arm 46 and a pair of gripping fingers 48. Briefly, the front receptacle or bucket 32 has a front panel 56, side panels 57 and 58, a back panel 60 and a bottom 61. An open top allows for dumping of refuse therein. Trolley extension 44 is generally inset into cut out portion 54 of front panel 56 of the front receptacle 32. The trolley extension 44 has a proximal end 45 and a distal end 47 and is adapted for shifting or sliding movement in the lateral direction (as described in detail below). A lifting arm 46 is mounted to the distal end 47 of trolley extension 44 and pivots adjacent the trolley extension 44 to lift and dump the refuse can 38 into the front receptacle 32. Gripping fingers 48 grip the refuse can 38 for the lifting and dumping operation.

Fig. 3 illustrates the situation in which the refuse can 38 has been gripped by gripping fingers 48, has been lifted and is being dumped by way of the lifting arm 46.

Refuse 62 can be seen falling from the can 38 into the front receptacle or bucket 32. The lifting arm 46 is then pivoted back to the normal or retracted position which returns the refuse can 38 to its position next to curb 52.

Gripping fingers 48 are then again opened and the refuse can 38 is released. The trolley extension 44 is then returned to its normal or fully retracted position, or even to a partially retracted position, withdrawing the lifting arm 42 and gripping fingers 48, also, into the retracted position. When the front receptacle 32 is completely filled with refuse, the large dump arms 14 pull the complete combination receptacle 40 over the operator WO 97/37909 PCTUS97/05888 cab 12 and the tapered faring 64, located above the operator cab 12. The refuse can handling assembly 42 may then be locked into the fully retracted position using a reversible or unlocking lock member (Fig. 18) The refuse is then dumped into refuse hopper 18, immediately behind tapered faring 64.

Fig. 4 shows a detailed illustration of the combination front receptacle refuse collection system As described above, combination front receptacle generally includes a front receptacle (or bucket) 32, having a front panel 56, side panels 57 and 58, and a back panel 60. Of course, it also includes a bottom panel, which cannot be seen in this view. A trolley extension or trolley 44 is located in cut out portion 54 of the front receptacle 32. Specifically, cut out portion 54 extends inwardly into the interior of front receptacle 32 from the front panel 56, thereof. Trolley 44 extends laterally in the cut out portion 54 and rides along upper guide 66 and lower guide 68, which are respectively mounted on upper and lower portions of cut out portion 54. The specific shapes of the upper end and lower guides will be described below.

A hydraulic cylinder 70 is mounted at a first end 72 to the front receptacle 32 and is mounted at a second end thereof 74 to the trolley extension 44. As the hydraulic cylinder 70 is forced to extend and retract under hydraulic pressure supplied from the refuse collection vehicle, the trolley extension 44 moves laterally along the upper and lower guides. The trolley 44 includes a retracted position in which it is substantially within the bounds of the front receptacle 32. In other words, in its retracted position (Fig. 16), trolley extension 44 does WO97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 not extend substantially outward beyond either side panel 57 or 58.

The lifting arm 46 is mounted intermediate the two opposing ends of trolley extension 44. Generally, it is preferable that the pivot 82, upon which the lifting arm 46 is mounted to the trolley extension 44, is slightly closer to the curb side end of trolley extension 44 than the end opposite the curb side. Lifting arm 46 may include a lateral arm 76 which, in the retracted position, extends generally parallel to trolley extension 44.

Lateral arm 76 is generally parallel to the plane of front panel 56. Side extension 78 extends generally rearwardly from an end of lateral arm 76, remote from pivot 82. Side extension 78 is generally perpendicular to lateral arm 76 and is also substantially parallel to the plane of side panel 57. Bracket 80 extends outwardly from lateral arm 76 near pivot 82. One end of hydraulic cylinder 84 is attached to bracket 80, while the opposite end thereof is attached to a bracket 86, located on trolley extension 44 and near the end opposite the curb side.

As hydraulic cylinder 84 extends and retracts, the lateral arm 76 of lifting arm 46 is forced to pivot around pivot 82, thus lifting a load of refuse to be dumped into the front receptacle 32. The gripping fingers generally indicated by reference numeral 48 include actuating mechanism 88, which is mounted to the side extension 78 of lifting arm 46. Further, the gripping fingers 48 may include individual gripping elements 90, each having rollers 94 or contact members at the end of each gripping element 90. The individual gripping elements 90, 92 are attached to the actuating mechanism (preferably a hydraulic actuating mechanism), such that as the hydraulic mechanism extends or retracts and pivots, the individual WO 97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 gripping elements 90, 92 open to release a refuse can or closed to grip a refuse can.

Hydraulic control lines 134 (Fig. may all be connectable to compatible lines from the refuse collection vehicle 10 itself. These connections which may include quick connect type couplings, enable all the hydraulic actuators of the combination front receptacle 40 to be operated and controlled from inside of operator cab 12.

Thus, it is possible to make the necessary refuse collection without the driver leaving the operator cab.

Fork supporting members 96 are provided on the outside of side panels 57 and 58 for receiving the front forks 16 of large dump arms 14 therein. Fork supporting members 96 may include slots or channels as shown, or may include any method of attachment as contemplated and understood by those of skill in the art.

Figs. 5 and 6 illustrate two different versions of the cutout portion 54 which is inset into front panel 56 of combination front receptacle 40. It can be seen that the trolley extension 44 is also inside of a plane of front panel 56. As illustrated in Fig. 5, front panel 56 has cutout portion 54 inset inwardly from front panel 56 into portions of opposing side panels 57 and 58. Cutout portion 54 includes generally rectangular inset portions 98 and semi-cylindrical inset portion 100. As can be seen from Fig. 4, the rectangular inset portion provides room for the lateral movement of trolley extension 44.

Further, the semi-cylindrical inset portion 100 provides additional room for hydraulic cylinder 70 (see Fig. 4) which is interior of the trolley extension 44. In other words, hydraulic cylinder 70 is disposed towards the WO 97/37909 PCTJUS97/05888 interior of the combination front receptacle 40, with respect to trolley extension 44.

As can be clearly seen from Fig. 4, and from Fig. when the trolley extension 44 is inset into the cutout portion 54, it is essentially inside of the front panel 56 of the combination front receptacle 40. Prior art devices using a type of trolley arm or extension have them positioned outside of the front panel or side panel of the combination receptacle. By insetting the trolley extension 44, of the present invention, either partially or wholly inside of front panel 56, or, in other words, moving front panel 56 outwardly to be outside of trolley extension 44, a larger volume inside of combination front receptacle 40 may be obtained without increasing the total length of the combination receptacle itself. Accordingly, more refuse cans 38 may be dumped into the combination front receptacle 40, before it needs to be dumped, itself, into the refuse hopper 18 of the refuse collection vehicle Because the combination front receptacle 40 holds more refuse, less stops are required to dump the contents of the combination front receptacle 40, and thus it is more efficient and less expensive for operation.

Furthermore, because the trolley extension 44 is inset within the inside of front panel 56, an additional safety advantage is obtained. This is because it offers less exposure, diminishing potential injuries. Also, because trolley extension 44 is inset inside of the front panel 56, it is maintained in a cleaner state, since it is less likely that pieces of refuse will fall in the working mechanism of the trolley extension 44.

WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 Fig. 6 is similar to Fig. 5, but only shows a partial view of front receptacle 32 of combination front receptacle 40. In this version of the front receptacle 32, the cutout portion 54, which is inset into the interior of front receptacle 32, is only comprised of a rectangular inset portion 102. Since there is no corresponding semi-cylindrical inset portion 100, as in Fig. 5, the version of Fig. 6 provides even greater capacity than that of Fig. 5. The cutout portion 54 of rectangular portion 102, of Fig. 6, will be described further with regard to Figs. 8 and Fig. 7 is a cross sectional view of trolley extension 44 disposed in cut out portion 54. Trolley extension 44 is supported by upper and lower guides 66 and 68, respectively. As can be clearly seen in Fig. 4, front panel 56 of the combination front receptacle 40 has a cut out portion 54 which includes rectangular inset portions 98 and semi-cylindrical inset portion 100. Upper and lower guides 66 and 68 are in the shape of angle rails.

On top of lower guide 68, a wear plate 104 is preferably used. While not necessary, is easier to simply replace the wear plate 104 than lower guide 68, when necessary.

Trolley extension 44 is inset inside of the plane of front panel 56 of the front receptacle 32. An advantage is also gained by positioning the trolley extension arm to be partially inset insider of the plane of front panel 56.

The structure of trolley extension 44 is illustrated in both Fig. 7 and Fig. 8. Fig. 8, while not necessarily to scale, illustrates the construction of trolley extension 44. Trolley extension 44 is made up of a top box tube 108 and a lower angle rail 110. Box tube 108 and lower angle rail 110, substantially parallel, are joined together by support posts 112. Additionally, a support WO 97/37909 PCTUS97/05888 panel 114 is provided with opening 116 into which pivot 82 is disposed, and by which it is supported. Wear plates 106 may also be used on top of box tube 108. In the interface between upper guide 66 and box tube 108 (or wear plate 106), and the interface between lower guide 68 (or wear plate 104) and lower angle rail 110, it is preferable that a type of grease is used to provide the necessary lubrication for movement. Further, as illustrated in Fig.

7, bracket 80 is mounted to pivot 82, and supports lateral arm 76 of lifting arm 46. The semi-cylindrical inset 100 of the cut out portion 54 allows the necessary space for hydraulic cylinder 72 (see also Fig. Preferably, the curb side end of hydraulic cylinder 72 is mounted to a support post 12 of the trolley extension 44, by way of brackets 118.

The "angle-rail" type of suspension system incorporated as part of trolley extension 44 is advantageous in this type of application because it is very strong, self aligning, self cleaning and generally trouble free. In addition, standardized sizes of structural angle material may be used.

Wear plates 104 and 106 may be attached to either the load carrying rail or the supporting rail or both, to reduce friction and improve the life of the trolley extension 44. These wear plates 104, 106 may include strips of generally frictionless material which is bolted, riveted, adhered, or otherwise attached to the rails.

Preferably, the wear plates 104, 106 cover the entire bearing surface of the rails and are at least 0.125 inches thick. Additionally, it should be noted that a very strong bearing surface is provided by way of a rail or wear plate 104, 106, bearing against a rail or another wear plate. This provides a large bearing surface area WO 97/37909 PCTUS97/05888 and thus a very strong, trouble free suspension device for the trolley extension 44.

Additionally, adjustment bolts 120 are provided on the under side of lower guide 68 in order to allow adjustment of the lower guide 58. This allows minor adjustments to be made for wear or other reasons in order to allow accurate operation without having to change wear plates 119 or the lower guides 68. Of course, the adjustment bolts may be provided on upper guide 66, or both.

Fig. 9 illustrates trolley extension 44, according to another aspect of the present invention. The structure of trolley extension, denoted 44', is slightly different from that of trolley extension 44 as shown in Fig. 7, and is also shown in Fig. 10. In Fig. 9, cut out portion 54 extends inwardly from front panel 56 of the combination front receptacle 40. In the aspect illustrated in Fig. 9, the rectangular inset portion 102 of cut out portion 54 is smaller than that illustrated in Fig. 7, since the aspect of Fig. 9 does not have a semi-cylindrical inset portion.

As illustrated in Fig. 10, trolley extension 44' is composed of gable portion 122, side portions 124, lower rail portion 126, and end portions 128. An opening 130 is provided with side walls 132 for receiving pivot 82, for supporting the lifting arm 46. As illustrated in Fig. the structure of trolley extension 44' is more a monocoque type structure in which the surface carries the load, rather than internal structure. This enables hydraulic cylinder 70' to be located inside of trolley extension 44' rather than closer to the interior of the combination front receptacle 40 than the trolley extension itself. Of course, this allows for a smaller inset portion, and increases the refuse capacity of combination front WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 receptacle 40, itself. As illustrated in Fig. 9, similar to Fig. 7, lower guide 68 are provided with wear plates 104. Also upper guide 66 is provided as the upper support for trolley extension 44'. Upper wear plates 106 maybe added to the top of gable portion 122 in order to provide the replaceable wear structure and frictionless surface.

As with Fig. 7, Fig. 9 also illustrates bracket 80 and lateral arm 76, as well as adjustment bolts 120.

The operation of this refuse collection system, or combination front receptacle 40, including the front receptacle 32 having the can lifting mechanism 40 can be understood in view of the figures and most specifically in considering Figs. 2-4.

As the operator of the refuse collection vehicle drives along a road or route 50, individual residential refuse cans 38 are typically placed near a curb 52. The operator of the collection vehicle 10 pulls up next to the refuse can 38 (see Fig. Through hydraulic valves and controls in the operator's cab 12, or alternatively, to combination front receptacle 44" itself, the operator extends hydraulic cylinder 70, thus moving trolley extension 44, along with lifting arm 46 and gripping fingers 48 near the curb, and the refuse can 38. The operator opens the hydraulic actuating mechanism 88 of the gripping fingers 48 to allow them to open. The gripping fingers 48 surround the refuse can 38 when trolley extension 44 is further extended and moved into the proper position as shown. The operator may then close the individual gripping elements 90, 92 of gripping fingers 48. Once gripped, the operator then extends (or retracts) hydraulic cylinder 84, causing the lifting arm 46 to pivot around pivot 82.

WO97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 As illustrated in Fig. 3, when lifting arm 46 pivots around pivot 82, the refuse 62 is dumped from the refuse can 38 into the combination front receptacle 32. When the refuse can 38 is empty, the operator reverses the action on hydraulic cylinder 84, causing lifting arm 46 to pivot back in the opposite direction, thus returning the refuse can 38 to its position near the curb 52. When the refuse can 38 is sitting on the ground, then the operator may operate actuating mechanism 88, opening up individual gripping elements 90, 92 of gripping fingers 48, releasing the refuse can 38. Then, hydraulic cylinder 70 may be contracted, causing trolley extension 44 to return to its retracted position. This being done, the operator of the refuse collection vehicle may then move along to the next house, to pick up the refuse from the next refuse can.

When a full load is obtained in the front receptacle 32, it is then dumped into the refuse hopper 18. As can be seen, from the above, the features of the present invention, enable the refuse collection to be done more efficiently, and more safely, thus becoming a great advantage to any municipality or private service which collects refuse.

A variation of the above described invention will now be described with reference to Figs. 11-17. Any instances where similar elements and parts are shown, the same reference numerals will be used as in the prior figures.

Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of a combination front receptacle denoted 40" and includes a front receptacle 32 with a can lifting mechanism 49 in accordance with the present invention. As shown in Fig.

4, the front receptacle 32 has a back panel 60, side panels 57 and 58, and a front panel 56. The trolley extension, denoted 44" in this embodiment, is generally WO 97/37909 PCTUS97/05888 similar to the trolley extension 44' as shown in Figs. 9 and 10. The trolley extension 44" of the present embodiment is also illustrated in Figs. 11A, 13, 14A and 14B. A reinforcing plate 142 is provided to simply reinforce the end of the trolley extension. As illustrated in Fig. 11 upper guide 66 and lower guide 68 are similar to the guides shown in Fig. 4. Trolley extension 44" is shifted laterally in the same way as the trolley extension 44 of Fig. 4. In other words it is operated by a hydraulic cylinder. Of course, other motor devices may be used. The hydraulic cylinder for shifting the trolley extension 44'' is positioned inside of the body of the trolley extension, similar to the arrangement shown in Fig. 9 with regard to trolley extension 44' Adjustment bolts 120 are also used with the lower guide 68 (or upper guide 66) of this version.

Trolley extension 44" does not have the opening 130 as shown in Fig. 10, but instead has a support member 136 which is mounted on the front side of trolley extension 44" by way of support brackets on 138. Support member 136 extends laterally along a portion of the front side 135 of support member 136.

Fig. 11A is an enlarged portion of an area of Fig. 11 generally designated by the arrow A. Fig. 11B is an enlarged portion of an area of Fig. 11 generally designated by the arrow B. Fig. 11C is an enlargement of an area of Fig. 11 generally indicated by the arrow C.

Support member 136 is also illustrated in Fig. 11B, with a hydraulic cylinder 84' mounted on the top thereof. As illustrated in Fig. 11, hydraulic cylinder 84' is mounted, on one end, to support member 136 and on the other end thereof to a pivot bracket 134. Pivot bracket 134 pivots at a pivot point 146 on an end of support member 136.

WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 Hydraulic cylinder 134 is attached to pivot bracket 144 at a pivot point 148. Pivot bracket 144 has a downwardly extending arm 150 attached thereto and from which a side extension 78 is further attached, as with the version illustrated in Fig. 4. Side extension 78 extends generally rearwardly from an end of arm 150 remote from pivot point 148. The side extension 78 is generally perpendicular to arm 150 and is also generally parallel to side panel 57.

A mounting bracket 152 is provided to mount side extension 178 fixedly to arm 150. A strain relief plate 154 (see Fig. 11A) is a part of the mounting bracket 152 and provides for a relief of the strain at the specific junction between the arm 150 and the end of side extension 78 and mounting bracket 152. As will be discussed in further detail below, in Fig. 11, a front roller 156 serves as a front anti-friction or frictionless bearing and a rear roller 158 serves as a rear anti-friction bearing.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative version of the front receptacle or bucket 32' Specifically, in Fig. 12, front bucket 32' has a back panel 60, side panels 57 and 58, and a bottom panel 59.

Fork supports 96 are provided on opposing sides of the front receptacle 32'. A key feature of front receptacle 32' is a bulge portion indicated by the reference numeral 160. This bulge portion is made of an extension portion 162 which is a lateral extension of back panel 60, an outwardly inclined side portion side 164, an inwardly inclined side portion 166, a vertical portion 168 connecting the outwardly inclined side portion 164 and inwardly inclined side portion 166, and an extension 170 of front panel 56 (see Fig. 11). This bulge portion 160 which generally extends the side panel 57 outwardly, WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 creates additional space inside of front receptacle 32' Thus, the capacity of front receptacle 32' is increased, thus increasing the efficiency of the refuse collecting ability in the present invention.

An added benefit of the bulge portion of front receptacle 32' can be seen with respect to Fig. 16. In Fig. 16, the gripping fingers 48 are illustrated by dotted lines. Gripping fingers 48 are in their fully retracted position. It should be noted that the gripping fingers 48 are substantially tucked away underneath the bulge portion 160. Thus, when retracted, gripping fingers 48 are substantially out of the way in a position not to interfere with other activities which may occur when the gripping fingers 48 are in their fully retracted position.

Front roller 156 is illustrated in Figs. 11, 14A, 14B, 13 and 16. Fig. 13 is a simplified end view of trolley extension 44" and the assembly therearound. In Fig. 13 an upper guide 66 and front roller 156 (as well as lower guide 68, hidden from view behind front roller 156) support trolley extension 44" therebetween. Support member 136 is disposed on the front side 135 of trolley extension 44" and is supported by support brackets 138.

Wear plates 104 are illustrated at the top, and wear plates 106 are illustrated at the bottom of trolley extension 44".

Front roller 156 functions as an anti-friction bearing, and is located as seen best in Fig. 16, at the lateral extremity nearest the lifting arm 46 and gripping fingers 48, of the lower guide 68. The mounting structure 172 which allows the front roller 156 to rotate about an axle, is fixably mounted to the body of the front receptacle 32' and does not move when the trolley WO 97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 extension 44" is shifted laterally. Thus, front roller 156 serves as a strong bearing for any downward load exerted on the trolley extension 44" when picking up a residential refuse can. While functioning as a strong bearing, because it is a roller, front roller 156 also functions to decrease the friction between the bearing and trolley extension 44", and thus increases the efficiency of the functioning of the device. Rear roller 158 functions as a rear anti-friction bearing. The rear roller is illustrated in Fig. 11 and Fig. llc. Rear roller 158 is rotatably supported by rear roller support 174. The rear roller support 174 is fixedly attached to an end of trolley extension 44" which is remote from the lifting arm 46 and gripping fingers 48. Thus, when trolley extension 44" is shifted laterally, rear roller 158 moves with the trolley extension 44" and bears against the lower portion of upper guide 66. When the gripping fingers and lifting arm pick up a refuse can, rear roller 158 acts as an anti-friction bearing with regard to the upper guide 66.

Front roller 156 and rear roller 158 may be made of a metal, or a hard rubber, or any other appropriate material. While this version of the present invention uses a front roller and a rear roller, it is possible to use multiple front rollers and/or multiple rear rollers.

Additional rollers may be provided on the top level, and additional rollers may be provided on the bottom level.

The front roller 156 and rear roller 158 serve to reduce the friction between the upper and lower guides 66, 68 and the bearing portions of trolley extension 44" Figs. 14A and 14B illustrate the operation of the lifting arm 150 when the trolley extension 44" is extended, as when it is lifting a refuse can. In Fig.

WO 97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 14A, trolley extension 44" is extended. Hydraulic cylinder 84' is fully extended such that pivot bracket 144 rests on stop 176. When the refuse can is gripped by the gripping fingers, hydraulic cylinder 84' contracts, thus causing pivot bracket 144 to pivot about pivot point 146.

This raises arm 150, and accordingly side extension 78 and the gripping fingers and the residential refuse can gripped thereby to dump the refuse in the front receptacle 32'. When the refuse is dumped into the front receptacle 32', hydraulic cylinder 84' then expands causing arm 150 to return to its lower position, thus returning the emptied residential refuse can to the position where it was picked up. This action is also illustrated in Figs.

16 and 17, where the pivot bracket 144 is indicated by broken lines.

Figs. 11 and 15 illustrate the gripping fingers 48 which are mounted on side extension 78. Individual gripping elements 90 and 92 are provided which are opposed to one another and are operated preferably by hydraulic actuation. A gripping surface 178, which is preferably made from a resilient and durable material such as a plastic or a rubber, is fixed at end mounting points 180 and at center mounting points 182. This construction allows the gripping elements 90, 92, when closed, to grip the refuse cans securely for dumping the refuse into the front receptacle. Of course, other arrangements and materials may be used with the gripping surface 178 as may be contemplated by those of skill in the art.

Referring now in particular to Fig. 15, individual gripping elements 90 and 92 may be configured to interlock with one another because of tapered portions 91 and 93.

Individual gripping element 90 is tapered in order to have an open area on the top portion thereof, while individual WO97/37909 PCTUS97/05888 gripping element 92 is tapered to have an open portion on the bottom portion thereof. Thus, tapered portions 91 and 93 interleave or mesh with one another in order to allow a stable gripping of the refuse can.

Referring now to Fig. 18, a variation of the abovedescribed invention will now be described. An alternative embodiment of a combination front receptacle 200 according to the principles of the present invention includes a front receptacle 202 and a can lifting mechanism 204. As shown in Fig. 18, the front receptacle 202 has a back panel 206, side panels 208 and 210, and a front panel 212.

In this embodiment, the front receptacle 202 may be identical to those of previously described embodiments.

A trolley extension denoted 214 in this embodiment, is generally similar to the trolley extension 44" as shown in Fig. 11. Also, as described in previous embodiments, at least one upper guide 216 and at least one lower guide 218 are mounted on the front receptacle 202 and movably support the trolley extension 214. Also, as previously discussed, the upper guide 216 and the lower guide 218 may comprise any variety of guides, rollers, wear plates or similar items and in any quantity as needed to support the described trolley extension 214, including the can lifting mechanism 204 and a fully loaded or filled refuse can.

A lifting arm 220 may be pivotally coupled to the trolley extension 214 and a plurality of gripping fingers 222 operatively connected to the lifting arm 220 such that the gripping fingers 222 may be extended, pivoted open and closed and engaged with a refuse can as previously shown and described.

WO97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 A manifold assembly 224 is mounted to the front receptacle 202 and fluidly connected to a first fluid connect assembly half 226 and a second fluid connect assembly half 228. Alternatively, the manifold assembly 224 may be connected to the trolley extension 214. A first connect assembly mating half 226a and a second connect assembly mating half 228a are attached to the collection truck for removable connection with their respective connect assemblies 226 and 228 on the combination front receptacle 200. The first and second connect assembly mating halves 226a and 228a are preferably connected to a plurality of high pressure fluid lines for connection to a source of fluid pressure.

Preferably, this fluid pressure source is a hydraulic power supply system mounted on the refuse collection vehicle and interconnected with the first and second connect assembly mating halves 226a and 228a through hydraulic hoses or lines. The use of hydraulics with refuse collection vehicles will not be further discussed, since its use is understood to those of skill in the art.

The first and second fluid connect assembly halves 226 and 228 may be fluidly connected with the manifold assembly 224 through pressure supporting lines 230.

Preferably, these lines 230 may be hydraulic hoses sized sufficiently to support the hydraulic cylinders and actuators as previously described for the previous embodiments.

In a preferred embodiment, the manifold assembly 224 may be a single piece or single block which is attached to the front panel 212. In this fashion, the manifold 224 is easily accessible and will not be damaged by the front of the refuse collection truck. An indentation or recess 232 may be formed inside of the front panel 212 to support and WO97/37909 PCTUS97/05888 protect the manifold assembly 224. The indentation 230 as shown in Fig. 18 may support the manifold assembly 224 in a fully recessed position or a partially recessed position. Alternatively, the manifold assembly 224 may merely be mounted anywhere on the front receptacle 202 or even the trolley extension 214.

A unique feature of the present embodiment includes the use of minimal interconnections between the refuse collection vehicle and the combination front receptacle 200. In a preferred embodiment, these interconnections, may include an electrical interconnection 234 and a pair of hydraulic lines 230. The hydraulic lines 230, as previously described, interconnect the manifold assembly 224 with the first and second fluid connect assembly halves 226 and 228. Thus, the hydraulic lines 230 preferably include a high-pressure hydraulic supply line and a lower pressure hydraulic return line. The hydraulic lines 230 may be interconnected with the manifold assembly 224 using threaded fittings or any other method as is known to those of skill in the art.

The manifold assembly 224 may contain a plurality of hydraulic valves 236. Alternatively, the manifold 224 may house a plurality of pneumatic valves, and in this configuration, the hydraulic lines 230 would be replaced with high-pressure pneumatic lines. In a preferred embodiment, each actuator or hydraulic cylinder as previously described for the combination front receptacle 200 and previous embodiments, is controlled by a solenoid operated hydraulic proportional valve 236. This type of hydraulic valve 236 allows an operator to control both the direction and the speed of the actuator. Preferably, these hydraulic valves 236 will be threadable into the manifold assembly 224 and the solenoid operators will 31 WO97/37909 PCTUS97/05888 require low-voltage electricity which may be supplied from the refuse collection vehicle as will be later described.

The manifold assembly 224 is also fluidly coupled to a plurality of hydraulic lines 230 interconnecting with each of the actuators. Thus, actuation of the trolley extension 214, the can lifting mechanism 204 and the gripping fingers 222 as previously described, may be controlled through the use of three actuators. In this configuration, each actuator would require two hydraulic lines 230 which would be directed to the manifold assembly 224 and fluidly connected with at least one hydraulic valve 236. An additional pair of hydraulic lines 230 would interconnect the manifold assembly 224 with the hydraulic supply of the refuse collection system as previously described.

The manifold assembly 224 may be provided with a cover, shield or other protective device (not shown) to prevent unauthorized tampering, shielding from refuse, or other protection. In a preferred embodiment, the cover merely comprises a sheet of plastic or rubber which is connected to the front panel 212.

The electrical interconnection 234, which preferably includes a first electrical connector, in electrical connection with the manifold assembly 224 and more preferably, the solenoid operators on the hydraulic valves 236, and a second electrical connector in connection with the refuse collection vehicle. In this configuration, the refuse collection vehicle may provide the source of electrical power, such as a 12-Volt supply to the manifold assembly 224 to drive the solenoid operated hydraulic valves 236 and any other systems requiring electricity.

In addition, the electrical interconnection 234, may send WO97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 electrical signals for controlling the solenoid operated hydraulic valves 236. Preferably, the electrical collection vehicle may be fitted with a multi-axis operator mechanism 237 for operatively controlling the proportional hydraulic valves 236. Alternatively, the multi-axis operator mechanism 237 may be mounted to the combination front receptacle 200. This multi-axis operator mechanism 237, which is preferably a joy stick would allow an operator to simply control the operation of all of the actuators or hydraulic cylinders while remaining within the safety of the refuse collection vehicle cab.

In addition to the actuators, which are preferably hydraulic cylinders as previously described, a retaining device or locking mechanism 238 may be provided for retaining the can lifting mechanism 204 in the normal or fully retracted position. This retention device 238, which is preferably a reversible locking device, is preferably mounted to the trolley extension 214 and hydraulicly actuated. However, the locking member 238 may also be electrically actuated, pneumatically actuated, or actuated by any other means as is known to those of skill in the art. A short post, hoop, or other attachment structure 240 may be attached to the can lifting mechanism 204 for connection with the locking member 238.

Preferably, the attachment structure 240 is a short post that is welded to the can lifting mechanism 204 as shown in Fig. 18. Thus, the locking member 238 may lock the can lifting mechanism 204 in the fully retracted position such that the combination front receptacle 200 remains retracted during dumping or any other operations. In addition, the locking member 238 provides additional safety.

WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 Preferably, the gripping fingers 222 may be interconnected to the can lifting mechanism 204. As previously described, each of the gripping fingers 222 is pivotable to grab or grip a refuse container (not shown).

In this embodiment, each of the gripping fingers 242 has a generally opposing proximal portion 244 coupled to the lifting arm 220 and extending outwardly to a distal portion 246. When actuated, the proximal portions 244 rotate or pivot across a single plane between an open position and a closed position. In this configuration, the proximal portions 244 of each gripping finger 222 contacts the refuse can across a single plane or a straight line. The distal portion 246 of each gripping finger is oriented such that it is bent or tapered downwardly or alternatively upwardly relative to proximal portion 244. In this configuration, the distal portions 246 of each gripping finger 222 may overlap or mesh as is shown in Fig. 15. This overlap or meshing provides for a more secure grip and also prevents rotation of the refuse can within the gripping fingers 222.

A flexible contact member 248 may be provided along each of the gripping fingers 222. Preferably, the flexible contact member 248 is a relatively rigid plastic which is sufficiently flexible to prevent crushing or other damage to the refuse can. In addition, in the preferred form, the flexible contact member 248 is connected to the distal portion 246. In this way, the proximal portion 244 may be fitted with a flexible element as previously described for gripping the refuse can, and the distal portion 246 may be fitted with the flexible contact member 248 made from the rigid plastic to prevent wear as well as providing a more secure gripping surface.

The plastic may include a polyester, polyethylene or any WO97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 other hard durable plastic and should be at least 0.125 inches thick.

The combination front receptacle 200 of the present invention may be ideally attached to a front-loading refuse collection vehicle having a pair of front fork members (not shown) by moving the refuse vehicle forwardly such that each fork is moved adjacent a fork supporting member 250 on the front receptacle 202. Preferably, there is a fork supporting member 250 attached to either of the side panels 208 and 210 similarly to the embodiments previously described. The front forks are then moved into the fork supporting members 250. After securing the combination front receptacle 200 to the refuse collection vehicle as previously described, the hydraulic connect assemblies 226 and 228 may be interconnected with the mating assemblies 226a and 226b. This step provides hydraulic power to the combination front receptacle 200 and preferably includes no more than interconnecting the pair of fluid connect assemblies 226 and 228. The electrical interconnect assembly 234, which may be an electrical quick connector assembly, is then connected between the refuse collection truck and the combination front receptacle 200 to provide electrical power. The combination front receptacle 200 is now ready for operation.

With the simplified interconnection requirements of the present embodiment, the combination front receptacle 200 is ideally suited for emptying both refuse cans and conventional dumpsters. In this fashion, the refuse collection vehicle may be connected with the combination front receptacle 200 and used to dump or empty refuse cans as previously described. When encountering the conventional dumpster or other refuse container, the WO97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 combination front receptacle 200 may be disconnected by simply reversing the previously discussed interconnection steps and the refuse collection truck withdrawn from the fork supporting members 250. The combination from receptacle 200 may be placed on the ground as necessary and even provided with ground engaging surfaces of supports.

This type of operation may become more common as condominiums, apartments and other types of common unit dwelling are intertwined with the typical single family residential neighborhoods. In addition, this quick interconnection and connection ability of the present combination front receptacle 200 allows a single refuse collection truck to serve as both residential as well as commercial customers. The dumpsters and other refuse containers may be dumped as is known to those of skill in the art.

Although a specific forms of embodiments of the present invention have been described above and illustrated in the accompanying drawings in order to be more clearly understood, the above description is made by way of example and not as a limitation to the scope of the present invention. It is contemplated that various modifications apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art could be made without departing from the scope of the invention which is to be determined by the following claims.

Claims

2. The combination front receptacle of claim i, wherein said refuse can handling assembly includes at least a trolley extension, shiftable laterally with respect to the vehicle.
3. The combination front receptacle of claim 2, wherein said trolley extension is inset inside of the plane of said front panel.
4. The combination front receptacle of claim 3, wherein said refuse can handling assembly also includes, a) a lifting arm, pivotally connected to said trolley extension, and b) gripping fingers operatively connected to said lifting arm, said gripping fingers being engageable with a refuse can. WO 97/37909 PCTUS97/05888 The combination front receptacle of claim 4, wherein said refuse can handling assembly includes an upper guide and a lower guide, said upper and lower guides being mounted on said front panel and supporting said trolley extension therebetween for lateral shifting movement, therebetween.
6. The combination front receptacle of claim wherein said upper and lower guides are angle rails oriented such that corner portions thereof face upwardly.
7. The combination front receptacle of claim 3, wherein said refuse can handling assembly includes a hydraulic cylinder, one end mounted on said front receptacle and an other end mounted on said trolley extension, for causing the lateral shifting movement of said trolley extension when said hydraulic cylinder contracts or expands.
8. The combination front receptacle of claim 7, wherein said hydraulic cylinder is located interior to said trolley extension, in the direction of the interior of said front receptacle, in a semi-cylindrical inset portion.
9. The combination front receptacle of claim 7 wherein said hydraulic cylinder is mounted inside of said trolley extension. The combination front receptacle of claim 9, wherein said hydraulic cylinder is disposed in a lower portion of said trolley extension, below a pivot opening for a pivot for a lifting arm. WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888
11. The combination front receptacle of claim 9, wherein said trolley extension has a substantially monocoque structure.
12. The combination front receptacle of claim wherein one of said upper and lower guides includes adjusting means for adjusting for wear.
13. The combination front receptacle of claim 12, wherein said lower guides includes said adjusting means.
14. The combination front receptacle of claim 13, wherein said adjusting means includes adjusting bolts located at a lower side of said lower guide. The combination front receptacle of claim 2 wherein hydraulic lines for controlling said trolley extension have quick disconnect fittings and do not include control valves, thus enabling such control valves to be resident inside of the refuse collection vehicle.
16. A combination front receptacle for collecting refuse with a front loading refuse collection vehicle, comprising: a refuse receiving front receptacle, engageable with front forks of the front loading refuse collection vehicle, and having a bottom, back panel, two side panels, a front panel, and an open top for receiving refuse therein; and a refuse can handling assembly, for gripping and dumping a refuse can into said front receptacle, said refuse can handling assembly including, a) a trolley extension shiftable laterally with respect to the vehicle, said trolley extension being shiftably supported by an upper and a lower guide mounted WO97/37909 PCTUS97/05888 on said front receptacle, wherein said upper and lower guides are angle rails oriented such that corner portions are facing upwardly, b) a lifting arm, pivotally connected to said trolley extension, and c) gripping fingers operatively connected to said lifting arm, said gripping fingers being engageable with a residential refuse can.
17. The combination front receptacle of claim 16, wherein said trolley extension is inset inside of the plane of said front panel.
18. The combination front receptacle of claim 17, wherein said refuse can handling assembly includes a hydraulic cylinder, one end mounted on said receptacle and on other end mounted on said trolley extension, for causing the lateral shifting movement of said trolley extension when said hydraulic cylinder contracts or expands.
19. The combination front receptacle of claim 18, wherein said hydraulic cylinder is located interior to said trolley extension, in the direction of the interior of said front receptacle, in a semi-cylindrical inset portion. The combination front receptacle of claim 18 wherein said hydraulic cylinder is mounted inside of said trolley extension.
21. The combination front receptacle of claim wherein said hydraulic cylinder is disposed in a lower portion of said trolley extension, below a pivot opening for said pivot for said lifting arm. WO97/37909 PCT/US97/05888
22. The combination front receptacle of claim 21, wherein said trolley extension has a substantially monocoque structure.
23. The combination front receptacle of claim 16, wherein one of said upper and lower guides includes adjusting means for adjusting for wear.
24. The combination front receptacle of claim 23, wherein said lower guides includes said adjusting mean. The combination front receptacle of claim 24, wherein said adjusting means includes adjusting bolts located at a lower side of said lower guide.
26. The combination front receptacle of claim 16 and further comprising a plurality of disconnectable hydraulic lines for controlling said trolley extension, said hydraulic lines extending from said refuse collection vehicle.
27. A combination front receptacle for collecting refuse with a front loading refuse collection vehicle, comprising: a refuse receiving front receptacle, engageable with front forks of the front loading refuse collection vehicle, and having a bottom, back panel, two side panels, a front panel and an open top for receiving refuse therein; a refuse can handling assembly for gripping and dumping a refuse can into said front receptacle, said refuse can handling assembly including, a) a trolley extension shiftable laterally with respect to the vehicle, said trolley extension being shiftably supported by an upper and lower guide mounted on 41 WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 said front receptacle, wherein a first anti-friction bearing is provided to support said trolley extension, b) a lifting arm, pivotally connected to said trolley extension, and c) gripping fingers operatively connected to said lifting arm, said gripping fingers being engageable with a residential refuse can.
28. The combination front receptacle of claim 27, further comprising a second anti-friction bearing provided to support said trolley extension.
29. The combination front receptacle of claim 28, wherein at least one of said first and said second anti- friction bearing is a roller. The combination front receptacle of claim 29, wherein said upper and lower guides are angle rails oriented such that corner portions are facing upwardly.
31. The combination front receptacle of claim wherein said trolley extension has upper and lower bearing surfaces which are complimentary to said upper and lower guides, respectively, and wherein said trolley extension nests between said upper and lower guides.
32. The combination front receptacle of claim 31, wherein said rollers have a shape complimentary to said angle rails, such that said rollers rollably bear against an underside of an angle rail.
33. The combination front receptacle of claim 31, wherein said first roller is fixed to said front receptacle such that said lower bearing surface of said WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 trolley extension bears on said first roller and is shiftable therealong.
34. The combination front receptacle of claim 33, wherein said first roller is fixed to said front receptacle at a location near an end of said lower guide nearest said lifting arm. The combination front receptacle as recited in claim 31 wherein said second anti-friction bearing is a roller and is fixed to said trolley extension such that said second roller bears on said upper guide and is shiftable with respect thereto.
36. The combination front receptacle of claim wherein said second roller is fixed to said trolley extension at an end thereof remote from said lifting arm.
37. The combination front receptacle of claim 36, wherein said side panel of said front receptacle, nearest said lifting arm, has a bulge portion extending outwardly.
38. The combination front receptacle of claim 36, wherein a support member is mounted on a front side of said trolley extension.
39. The combination front receptacle of claim 38, wherein said lifting arm is supported on said support member by way of a pivot bracket. The combination front receptacle of claim 39, wherein said lifting arm includes a downwardly angled arm attached to said pivot bracket and a side extension mounted on a remote end of said pivot bracket and generally perpendicular thereto. WO 97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888
41. The combination front receptacle of claim wherein said lifting arm further includes a strain relief plate connecting said downwardly angled arm to said side extension.
42. The combination front receptacle of claim 36, wherein said gripping fingers include opposing individual gripping elements.
43. The combination front receptacle of claim 42, wherein said individual gripping elements are interleaved with one another in a fully closed position.
44. The combination front receptacle of claim 43, wherein said individual gripping members each has a resilient gripping surface for gripping a residential refuse can therebetween. The combination front receptacle of claim 44, wherein said gripping surfaces are fixed at each end to an inside point of said individual gripping members.
46. The combination front receptacle of claim where said gripping surfaces are also fixed at a midpoint thereof to said individual gripping members.
47. A combination front receptacle for collecting refuse with a front loading refuse collection vehicle, said combination front receptacle comprising: a refuse receiving front receptacle, engageable with a pair of front forks on said front loading collection vehicle, said front receptacle having a bottom, a back panel, two side panels, a front panel and an open top for receiving refuse therein; WO 97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 a refuse can handling assembly connected to said front receptacle for gripping and dumping a refuse can into said front receptacle, said refuse can handling assembly including, a) a trolley extension having a distal end and a proximal end, said trolley moveable laterally with respect to said vehicle, said trolley extension being movably supported by an upper and a lower guide mounted on said front receptacle, b) a lifting arm, pivotally coupled to said trolley extension, c) a plurality of gripping fingers operatively connected to said lifting arm, said gripping fingers being engageable with a refuse can, d) a manifold assembly mounted to said front receptacle, e) a first fluid connect assembly half for connection with a first connect assembly mating half attached to said collection truck, said first connect assembly fluidly connected to said manifold; and f) a second fluid connect assembly half for connection with a second connect assembly mating half attached to said collection truck, said second connect assembly fluidly connected to said manifold.
48. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 47 wherein said manifold assembly comprises a plurality of hydraulic proportional valves.
49. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 48 wherein at least one of said proportional valves comprises a solenoid operated hydraulic proportional valve. WO97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 49 and further comprising an electrical connector in electrical connection with said solenoid operated proportional valve for connection with a second electrical connector on said collection vehicle.
51. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 49 wherein said solenoid operated proportional valve is in electrical connection with a multi-axis operator mechanism mounted to said collection vehicle for operatively controlling said proportional valve.
52. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 48 and further comprising a plurality of hydraulic control lines for fluidly interconnecting said manifold assembly with a plurality of hydraulic actuators, each of said actuators for moving each of said trolley extension, said lifting arm and said gripping fingers.
53. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 48 wherein said manifold assembly comprises a single block manifold fluidly interconnecting said plurality of proportional valves with said plurality of actuators.
54. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 47 and further comprising a second plurality of hydraulic control lines for fluidly interconnecting said first fluid connect assembly half and said second fluid connect assembly half with said manifold assembly. WO97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 48 wherein said manifold assembly is inset within one of said side panels.
56. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 52 wherein said actuators comprise hydraulic cylinders.
57. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 52 wherein said multi-axis operator comprises a joystick controller.
58. A combination front receptacle for collecting refuse with a front loading refuse collection vehicle, said refuse collection system comprising: a refuse receiving front receptacle, engageable with and supportable by a pair of front forks on said collection vehicle, and having a bottom, a back panel, two side panels, a front panel and an open top for receiving refuse therein; a refuse can handling assembly for gripping and dumping a refuse can into said front receptacle, said refuse can handling assembly including, a) a trolley extension having a distal end and a proximal end, said trolley moveable laterally with respect to said vehicle, said trolley extension being movably supported by an upper and a lower guide mounted on said front receptacle, b) a lifting arm, pivotally coupled to said distal end of said trolley extension, said lifting arm movable between an extended position and a retracted position, c) a pair of gripping fingers, each having a generally opposing proximal portion coupled to said WO97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 lifting arm and extending outwardly from said lifting arm to a distal portion, d) an actuating mechanism attached to said lifting arm and coupled to each of said gripping fingers for moving said lifting fingers between an open position and a closed position, and e) a retention device coupled to said trolley extension for retaining said lifting arm while in the retracted position.
59. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 58 wherein said retention device comprises a reversible locking member for removably engaging a locking post on said lifting arm. A combination front receptacle for collecting refuse with a front loading refuse collection vehicle, said refuse collection system comprising: a refuse receiving front receptacle, engageable with a pair of front forks on said collection vehicle, and having a bottom, a back panel, two side panels, a front panel and an open top for receiving refuse therein; a refuse can handling assembly for gripping and dumping a refuse can into said front receptacle, said refuse can handling assembly including, a) a trolley extension having a distal end and a proximal end, said trolley moveable laterally with respect to said vehicle, said trolley extension being movably supported by an upper and a lower guide mounted on said front receptacle, b) a lifting arm, pivotally coupled to said distal end of said trolley extension, c) a pair of gripping fingers, each having a generally opposing proximal portion coupled to said lifting arm and extending outwardly to a distal portion, WO97/37909 PCTIUS97/05888 said proximal portions movable across a single plane between an open position and a closed position; and d) an actuating mechanism attached to the lifting arm and coupled to each of said gripping fingers.
61. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 60 and further comprising: a) a manifold assembly mounted to said combination receptacle, b) a first fluid connect assembly half for connection with a first connect assembly mating half attached to said collection truck, said first connect assembly fluidly connected to said manifold, and c) a second fluid connect assembly half for connection with a second connect assembly mating half attached to said collection truck, said second connect assembly fluidly connected to said manifold.
62. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 60 wherein the distal portion of each gripping finger comprises a flexible contact member for contacting the refuse can.
63. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 62 wherein the contact member comprises a plastic.
64. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 60 wherein the actuating mechanism comprises a hydraulic cylinder and wherein said distal portions of said gripping fingers overlap when in said closed position. The combination front receptacle for collecting refuse as recited in claim 60 and further comprising a WO97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 plurality of wear plates for contact with said upper guide and said lower guide.
66. A method of removably attaching a combination front receptacle having a plurality of fork supporting members to a front loading refuse vehicle having a pair of front fork members for collecting refuse from a refuse can, said method comprising the steps of: moving the refuse vehicle forwardly such that each fork is moved into a fork supporting member; connecting no more than two hydraulic connect assemblies between the refuse vehicle and the combination front receptacle; and connecting a single electrical connection between the refuse vehicle and the combination front receptacle.
67. A method of collecting refuse from both a conventional refuse can and a refuse dumpster using a front loading refuse vehicle in conjunction with a combination front receptacle which is removably attachable to a pair of front forks on said collection vehicle, said method comprising the steps of: attaching the combination front receptacle to the collection vehicle; positioning the collection vehicle adjacent a refuse can; actuating an extendable trolley connected to the combination front receptacle such that a distal end of said trolley is extended laterally outwardly from the collection truck; actuating a pair of gripping fingers coupled to the distal end of the trolley assembly such that said gripping fingers move inwardly to capture the refuse can; emptying the refuse can into a front refuse receptacle attached to the combination front receptacle; WO97/37909 PCT/US97/05888 removing the combination front receptacle from the collection vehicle; positioning the collection vehicle adjacent a refuse dumpster having a plurality of fork supports; and emptying the refuse dumpster using the collection vehicle.
68. The method of collecting refuse as recited in claim 67 wherein the step of attaching the combination front receptacle comprises the steps of: engaging each of the front forks on the collection vehicle with a fork support on the combination front receptacle; connecting a pair of hydraulic quick connect assembly halves on said combination front receptacle to a mating pair on said collection vehicle; connecting an electrical quick connecter assembly on said combination front receptacle to a mating connecter on said collection vehicle; and lifting the combination front receptacle with the front forks such that the vehicle is able to freely move.
69. The method of collecting refuse as recited in claim 67 wherein the step of removing the combination front receptacle comprises the steps of: disconnecting each of the hydraulic quick connect assemblies; disconnecting the electrical quick connect assembly; resting the combination front receptacle on a supporting surface; and disengaging the front forks of the collection vehicle from the fork supports on the combination front receptacle. 52 The method of collecting refuse as recited in claim 69 wherein the step of resting comprises the step of placing the combination front receptacle on the ground.
71. A combination front receptacle substantially as described herein with reference to Figs: 1 to 5 and 7 and 8; 6; 9; 10; 11 to 17; or 18 of the accompanying drawings.
72. A method of removably attaching a combination front receptacle to a front loading refuse vehicle, said method substantially as described herein with reference to Figs: 1 to 5 and 7 and 8; 6; 9; 10; 11 to 17; or 18 of the accompanying drawings.
73. A method of collecting refuse, said method substantially as described herein with reference to Figs: 1 to 5 and 7 and 8; 6; 9; 10; 11 to 17; or 18 of the accompanying drawings. 15 DATED this Thirteenth Day of October 1998 Kosti Shirvanian Patent Attorneys for the Applicant/Nominated Person *SPRUSON FERGUSON 0 IN:\LIBd]00670:DMB