US20150259873A1 - Mini excavator for pick-up trucks and other light vehicles - Google Patents
Mini excavator for pick-up trucks and other light vehicles Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20150259873A1 US20150259873A1 US14/659,304 US201514659304A US2015259873A1 US 20150259873 A1 US20150259873 A1 US 20150259873A1 US 201514659304 A US201514659304 A US 201514659304A US 2015259873 A1 US2015259873 A1 US 2015259873A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- excavator
- light vehicle
- portable
- bed
- profile frame
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/28—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets
- E02F3/30—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets with a dipper-arm pivoted on a cantilever beam, i.e. boom
- E02F3/32—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with digging tools mounted on a dipper- or bucket-arm, i.e. there is either one arm or a pair of arms, e.g. dippers, buckets with a dipper-arm pivoted on a cantilever beam, i.e. boom working downwardly and towards the machine, e.g. with backhoes
- E02F3/325—Backhoes of the miniature type
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
- B60P1/00—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading
- B60P1/54—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading using cranes for self-loading or self-unloading
- B60P1/5471—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading using cranes for self-loading or self-unloading the crane being detachable from the vehicle
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60P—VEHICLES ADAPTED FOR LOAD TRANSPORTATION OR TO TRANSPORT, TO CARRY, OR TO COMPRISE SPECIAL LOADS OR OBJECTS
- B60P1/00—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading
- B60P1/54—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading using cranes for self-loading or self-unloading
- B60P1/5471—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading using cranes for self-loading or self-unloading the crane being detachable from the vehicle
- B60P1/5476—Vehicles predominantly for transporting loads and modified to facilitate loading, consolidating the load, or unloading using cranes for self-loading or self-unloading the crane being detachable from the vehicle and having a first pivot on a horizontal axis
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F3/00—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines
- E02F3/04—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven
- E02F3/96—Dredgers; Soil-shifting machines mechanically-driven with arrangements for alternate or simultaneous use of different digging elements
- E02F3/963—Arrangements on backhoes for alternate use of different tools
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F9/00—Component parts of dredgers or soil-shifting machines, not restricted to one of the kinds covered by groups E02F3/00 - E02F7/00
- E02F9/003—Devices for transporting the soil-shifting machines or excavators, e.g. by pushing them or by hitching them to a tractor
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
- E02F—DREDGING; SOIL-SHIFTING
- E02F9/00—Component parts of dredgers or soil-shifting machines, not restricted to one of the kinds covered by groups E02F3/00 - E02F7/00
- E02F9/08—Superstructures; Supports for superstructures
- E02F9/085—Ground-engaging fitting for supporting the machines while working, e.g. outriggers, legs
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to compact excavators.
- embodiments of the present invention provide a compact excavator that can be easily mounted and removed from the bed or rear of a light vehicle, such as a pickup truck, for convenient portability and use while reducing the overall cost as the excavator of the present invention eliminates the need for drive train and mobility components (e.g., treads, steering).
- Small general purpose excavators capable of operating as a backhoe, excavator and/or lifting arm are common and find use in most forms of residential, commercial and industrial construction, development, maintenance and other applications.
- These general purpose excavators are most commonly tracked vehicles with an excavator arm and mechanical components (e.g., hydraulics, gas engine, steering, drive trains) required to operate both the mobility and excavating functions of the excavator.
- these general purpose excavators are towed to job sites, such as behind a commercial or light vehicle on a flatbed or on a box truck. Once at the job site, the mobility components of the general purpose excavators allow the excavator to get to areas where its functionalities are needed.
- the job sites these general purpose excavators are use at can be reached by regular wheeled vehicles (e.g., pickup trucks).
- regular wheeled vehicles e.g., pickup trucks.
- the mobility components of the general purpose excavators may be of limited need as regular light vehicles can get to the same areas as the general purpose excavators.
- one of the main costs associated with these general purpose excavators is the cost involved with building out the mobility systems (e.g., drive trains, treads, steering). As such, the price of a general purpose excavator is largely tied to its mobility systems. These costs go up in correlation with the size of the excavator as well, with larger excavators requiring more extensive and robust mobility systems to move them around.
- embodiments of the present invention are directed to an excavator and mounting system that is capable of being mounted to a standard light vehicle, such as a pickup truck, without requiring additional mobility components.
- Preferred embodiments of the present invention also provide for an excavator that is easily removable from such standard light vehicles and not overly impede the ability of the vehicle to carry cargo or tow other items.
- a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle comprises: a low profile frame formed to fit in the bed of said light vehicle and comprising a plurality of interfaces; an excavator comprising an undercarriage, a boom, a control interface and a power system; said undercarriage is formed such that it can be secured to said low profile frame via a plurality of mounting means, wherein each mounting means engages with at least one of said interfaces of said plurality of interfaces of said low profile frame; and said control interface and said power system work in conjunction with one another to operate the boom of said excavator.
- the power system comprises one or more hydraulic pumps and an internal combustion engine.
- control interface comprises one or more controllers configured to provide directional input to said boom.
- the controllers are joysticks.
- the interfaces are self-centering interfaces.
- the mounting means are threaded bolts.
- the excavator further comprises one or more support pylons removably securable to said low profile frame and configured to adjustably extend from the bed of said light vehicle to a surface below and provide additional stability to the excavator when said excavator is in operation.
- the excavator further comprises one or more light vehicle frame locking bracket configured to secure said low-profile frame to said bed.
- the low-profile frame is affixed to said bed of said light vehicle.
- the boom comprises a tool arm configured to receive one or more tools selected from the group comprising a bucket, a grapple and a drill.
- the excavator is configured to rotate 360 degrees in the bed of said light vehicle.
- a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, said portable excavator comprises: a low profile frame formed to fit in the bed of said light vehicle and comprising a plurality of interfaces; an excavator comprising an undercarriage formed such that it can be secured to said low profile frame via a plurality of mounting means, wherein each mounting means engages with at least one of said interfaces of said plurality of interfaces of said low profile frame.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a light vehicle for use with a portable excavator in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a light vehicle with a low profile frame mounted to its bed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a light vehicle with a low profile frame mounted to its bed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a side view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
- a portable excavator is provided for that can be easily installed and removed from the bed of a light vehicle, such as a pickup truck.
- the portable excavator includes a base (i.e., undercarriage) that is mounted on a frame by means of a series of plots (e.g., 4 plots) and secured to the frame by a corresponding number of mounting means, such as coarse thread bolts (e.g., 4 coarse thread bolts).
- the frame carrying the excavator base is affixed to the truck bed and is designed in with low profile in order to maintain cargo capabilities of the light vehicle. Further in this preferred embodiment, the frame is fastened to a chassis of the light vehicle and not as easily removed.
- the frame of the portable excavator is configured to fit in the bed of a light vehicle in a low profile manner.
- the frame is a lay flat design, configured to allow for the frame to be secured to the bed of the light vehicle such that cargo can still be placed on top of the frame and still be within the bed (e.g., below any sidewalls of the bed).
- the frame may be configured to fit in beds of most standard light vehicles.
- the frame may fit in a standard compact pickup truck bed, having a frame width of no greater than 50 inches and length no greater than 78 inches, which is the size of a compact pickup truck bed.
- the frame could be larger or smaller, depending on the vehicle the portable excavator is to be used with and also characteristics of the portable excavator itself (e.g., larger portable excavators could require larger frames).
- the frame can be designed in a size and shape for use with a particular light vehicle, such as a frame that fits the bed of a specific make/model/year.
- the frame is secured to a light vehicle in a permanent or semi-permanent manner.
- Semi-permanent frame installations may be accomplished, for instance, via bolting, friction fitting, screwing or otherwise mounting the frame to the bed of a light vehicle in a manner that secures the frame to the bed while allowing for the possibility of removal at a later time.
- Permanent installations of the frame may be accomplished, for instance, via welding, riveting or through the use of epoxies or other strong adhesives.
- the frame could be permanently or semi-permanently secured to the bed of a light vehicle, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate method for permanently or semi-permanently securing the frame to the bed of a light vehicle.
- the excavator portion of the portable excavator may be removably installed on the frame.
- the excavator portion of the portable excavator is removably secured to the frame. In this manner, the excavator portion can be installed and removed as needed, allowing the light vehicle to retain its usefulness with respect to its standard functionality.
- the frame comprises one or more interfaces configured to allow for the excavator portion to be secured to the frame.
- the interfaces are self-centering interfaces and while any number of self-centering interfaces may be used, a preferred embodiment of the frame comprises 4 self-centering interfaces.
- One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous types of interfaces that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any number and type of interfaces.
- an undercarriage of the excavator portion of the portable excavator is secured to the frame through these interfaces via one or more mounting means.
- Mounting means may include, but are not limited to, bolts, pins (e.g., lynch pins, hitch pins), screws, lug nuts or any combination thereof.
- bolts e.g., bolts, pins (e.g., lynch pins, hitch pins), screws, lug nuts or any combination thereof.
- mounting and removal of the excavator portion from the frame can be done with simple tools (e.g., wrench) and completed in a manner of minutes.
- simple tools e.g., wrench
- quick release pins or other mounting devices allowing for mounting and/or removal to be accomplished even quicker.
- the excavator portion of the portable excavator is comprised of a power system, a boom, a control interface and an undercarriage.
- Preferred embodiments of the present invention may also include a seat or other cockpit for an operator to sit in during operation of the excavator.
- the undercarriage is configured to receive the mounting means and secure the excavator portion of the portable excavator to the frame.
- the undercarriage further comprises a rotating portion which allows for the entire excavator portion to rotate as needed.
- Preferred embodiments of the present invention are capable of rotating a full 360 degrees.
- the portable excavator can be mounted to the bed of a light vehicle and allowed to rotate into an operable position (e.g., boom facing off the back of the light vehicle) and a portability position (e.g., boom facing forward relative to the light vehicle in order to allow for the weight to be best distributed for driving purposes).
- the power system comprises one or more hydraulic pumps. These hydraulic pumps provide mobility to the boom, tools attached to the boom and the rotating portion of the undercarriage.
- the power system may further be comprised of an internal combustion engine configured to provide power to the hydraulic pumps.
- power may be provided to the hydraulic pumps via alternative power means, such as directly from the powertrain of the light vehicle, via battery packs, via electrical connections to residential or commercial electrical receptacles (e.g., 120v receptacles, 240v receptacles).
- alternative power means such as directly from the powertrain of the light vehicle, via battery packs, via electrical connections to residential or commercial electrical receptacles (e.g., 120v receptacles, 240v receptacles).
- the boom of the portable excavator is comprised of a stick/dipper arm and one or more tools.
- the stick is similar to that of a standard excavator in that it is generally an arm with integrated hydraulics providing the ability to move the arm along various axes and operate the tool at the end of the boom.
- Tools that can be used with the portable excavator include, but are not limited to, buckets, drills, grapples, hooks or any combination thereof.
- booms, sticks and tools that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate type of boom, sticks and/or tools.
- the portable excavator may be further enhanced through incorporating one or more support pylons to said low profile frame.
- these support pylons are removably securable to the low profile frame such that they may be adjustably extend from the bed of said light vehicle to a surface below, such as the ground or pavement.
- the purpose of the support pylons is to provide additional stability to the portable excavator when in operation.
- two support pylons may extend from the rear of the light vehicle and have support feet that rest on the surface below.
- the support pylons may be adjustable via one or more length adjustment means, such as through incorporation of multiple slots configured to receive one or more lynch pins or other locking means.
- adjustment means include, but are not limited to jacks, hydraulic actuators, linear actuators, crank assemblies, or any combination thereof.
- jacks hydraulic actuators
- linear actuators linear actuators
- crank assemblies or any combination thereof.
- a light vehicle frame locking bracket can be used to assist with the mounting of the low-profile frame to the bed of a light vehicle.
- the light vehicle frame locking bracket may be, for instance, an arm extending between two or more points on the light vehicle is configured to be secured to structurally sound portions of the light vehicle, such as the frame of the light vehicle.
- One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous types of light vehicle frame locking brackets that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate light vehicle frame locking brackets.
- the low-profile frame may further utilize a rear frame support.
- the rear frame support is configured to secure a portion of the low-profile frame that is nearest to the rear end of the bed of the light vehicle to the light vehicle. Similar to the light vehicle frame locking bracket, the rear frame support is secured to structurally sound portions of the light vehicle and ensures the low-profile frame, when attached is secured to the bed of the light vehicle.
- FIG. 1 a perspective view of a light vehicle for use with a portable excavator, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown.
- the bed of a standard pickup truck is shown. While this view is of a standard pickup truck, one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that embodiments of the portable excavator of the present invention could be utilized with any light vehicle or other appropriate vehicle.
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a light vehicle with a low profile frame mounted to its bed, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown.
- the light vehicle is equipped with a low-profile frame 11 mounted to the bed.
- Interfaces 12 of the low-profile frame 11 are oriented such that the low-profile frame 11 can receive the excavator portion of the invention thereupon and be retained on the low-profile frame 11 through use of one or more mounting means.
- FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a light vehicle with a low profile frame mounted to its bed, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown.
- the light vehicle is equipped with a low-profile frame 11 mounted to the bed.
- Interfaces 12 of the low-profile frame 11 are oriented such that the low-profile frame 11 can receive the excavator portion of the invention thereupon and be retained on the low-profile frame 11 through use of one or more mounting means.
- adjustable and removable support pylons 13 are shown, extending from the rear of the bed of the light vehicle and positioned in a downward direction to provide support to the excavator through contact with a surface below.
- the support pylons are adjustably attached to the low-profile frame 11 via lynch pins. While FIG. 3 shows the attachment of the support pylons 13 to the low-profile frame 11 via lynch pins, one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate there are numerous connection means that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown.
- the excavator portion is shown attached to the low-profile frame 11 at the undercarriage 14 of the excavator portion.
- the bulk of the power system 15 is located underneath a chair 19 of the excavator portion which is in convenient proximity to the control interface(s) 16 .
- the boom 17 In front of the chair is the boom 17 , which is shown with a tool attachment (i.e., bucket) 18 .
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown.
- the excavator portion is shown attached to the low-profile frame 11 at the undercarriage 14 of the excavator portion.
- the bulk of the power system 15 is located underneath a chair 19 of the excavator portion which is in convenient proximity to the control interface(s) 16 .
- the boom 17 In front of the chair is the boom 17 , which is shown with a tool attachment (i.e., bucket) 18 .
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown.
- the low-profile frame is not shown in order to highlight both the light vehicle locking bracket 20 and rear frame support 21 .
- These components are generally mounted to the bed of the light vehicle to secure the frame to the light vehicle and provide additional structural support for the light vehicle.
- FIGS. 7-8 is a side view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown.
- various positions of rotation of the excavator portion are shown. It is highlighted here that the excavator portion can be rotated without restriction in 360 degrees for operation in any direction and to allow for convenient portability when mounted to the light vehicle.
- FIG. 9 an exploded view of the underside of a light vehicle is shown.
- Rear frame support 20 and frame locking bracket 21 are shown attached to the light vehicle in order to secure the low-profile frame 11 to the light vehicle.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
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- Operation Control Of Excavators (AREA)
- Component Parts Of Construction Machinery (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention generally relates to compact excavators. In particular, embodiments of the present invention provide a compact excavator that can be easily mounted and removed from the bed or rear of a light vehicle, such as a pickup truck, for convenient portability and use while reducing the overall cost as the excavator of the present invention eliminates the need for drive train and mobility components (e.g., treads, steering).
Description
- The present application is a continuation in part of, and claims the benefit to, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/953,859 filed Mar. 16, 2014, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
- The present invention generally relates to compact excavators. In particular, embodiments of the present invention provide a compact excavator that can be easily mounted and removed from the bed or rear of a light vehicle, such as a pickup truck, for convenient portability and use while reducing the overall cost as the excavator of the present invention eliminates the need for drive train and mobility components (e.g., treads, steering).
- Small general purpose excavators, capable of operating as a backhoe, excavator and/or lifting arm are common and find use in most forms of residential, commercial and industrial construction, development, maintenance and other applications. These general purpose excavators are most commonly tracked vehicles with an excavator arm and mechanical components (e.g., hydraulics, gas engine, steering, drive trains) required to operate both the mobility and excavating functions of the excavator.
- In most cases, these general purpose excavators are towed to job sites, such as behind a commercial or light vehicle on a flatbed or on a box truck. Once at the job site, the mobility components of the general purpose excavators allow the excavator to get to areas where its functionalities are needed.
- Frequently, however, the job sites these general purpose excavators are use at can be reached by regular wheeled vehicles (e.g., pickup trucks). In this manner, the mobility components of the general purpose excavators may be of limited need as regular light vehicles can get to the same areas as the general purpose excavators.
- Further, one of the main costs associated with these general purpose excavators is the cost involved with building out the mobility systems (e.g., drive trains, treads, steering). As such, the price of a general purpose excavator is largely tied to its mobility systems. These costs go up in correlation with the size of the excavator as well, with larger excavators requiring more extensive and robust mobility systems to move them around.
- Given that the job sites where these general purpose excavators are used can be reached by standard light vehicles, it would be desirable simply to have the light vehicle act as the mobility system for the excavator, eliminating the need for the expensive and unnecessary mobility systems of the excavator. This is not currently offered in the present art.
- Therefore, there is a need in the art for an excavator and mounting system that is capable of being mounted to a standard light vehicle, such as a pickup truck, without requiring additional mobility components. It would also be preferable for such excavators to be easily removable from such standard light vehicles and not overly impede the ability of the vehicle to carry cargo or tow other items. This and other features and advantages of the present invention will be explained and will become obvious to one skilled in the art through the summary of the invention that follows.
- Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention are directed to an excavator and mounting system that is capable of being mounted to a standard light vehicle, such as a pickup truck, without requiring additional mobility components. Preferred embodiments of the present invention also provide for an excavator that is easily removable from such standard light vehicles and not overly impede the ability of the vehicle to carry cargo or tow other items.
- According to embodiments of the present invention, a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle comprises: a low profile frame formed to fit in the bed of said light vehicle and comprising a plurality of interfaces; an excavator comprising an undercarriage, a boom, a control interface and a power system; said undercarriage is formed such that it can be secured to said low profile frame via a plurality of mounting means, wherein each mounting means engages with at least one of said interfaces of said plurality of interfaces of said low profile frame; and said control interface and said power system work in conjunction with one another to operate the boom of said excavator.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the power system comprises one or more hydraulic pumps and an internal combustion engine.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the control interface comprises one or more controllers configured to provide directional input to said boom.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the controllers are joysticks.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the interfaces are self-centering interfaces.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the mounting means are threaded bolts.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the excavator further comprises one or more support pylons removably securable to said low profile frame and configured to adjustably extend from the bed of said light vehicle to a surface below and provide additional stability to the excavator when said excavator is in operation.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the excavator further comprises one or more light vehicle frame locking bracket configured to secure said low-profile frame to said bed.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the low-profile frame is affixed to said bed of said light vehicle.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the boom comprises a tool arm configured to receive one or more tools selected from the group comprising a bucket, a grapple and a drill.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the excavator is configured to rotate 360 degrees in the bed of said light vehicle.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, said portable excavator comprises: a low profile frame formed to fit in the bed of said light vehicle and comprising a plurality of interfaces; an excavator comprising an undercarriage formed such that it can be secured to said low profile frame via a plurality of mounting means, wherein each mounting means engages with at least one of said interfaces of said plurality of interfaces of said low profile frame.
- The foregoing summary of the present invention with the preferred embodiments should not be construed to limit the scope of the invention. It should be understood and obvious to one skilled in the art that the embodiments of the invention thus described may be further modified without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a light vehicle for use with a portable excavator in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a light vehicle with a low profile frame mounted to its bed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a light vehicle with a low profile frame mounted to its bed in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 is a side view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. - Embodiments of the present disclosure are now described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, a portable excavator is provided for that can be easily installed and removed from the bed of a light vehicle, such as a pickup truck. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the portable excavator includes a base (i.e., undercarriage) that is mounted on a frame by means of a series of plots (e.g., 4 plots) and secured to the frame by a corresponding number of mounting means, such as coarse thread bolts (e.g., 4 coarse thread bolts). In this preferred embodiment, the frame carrying the excavator base is affixed to the truck bed and is designed in with low profile in order to maintain cargo capabilities of the light vehicle. Further in this preferred embodiment, the frame is fastened to a chassis of the light vehicle and not as easily removed.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the frame of the portable excavator is configured to fit in the bed of a light vehicle in a low profile manner. In most cases, the frame is a lay flat design, configured to allow for the frame to be secured to the bed of the light vehicle such that cargo can still be placed on top of the frame and still be within the bed (e.g., below any sidewalls of the bed).
- In certain embodiments, the frame may be configured to fit in beds of most standard light vehicles. For instance, the frame may fit in a standard compact pickup truck bed, having a frame width of no greater than 50 inches and length no greater than 78 inches, which is the size of a compact pickup truck bed. In other embodiments, the frame could be larger or smaller, depending on the vehicle the portable excavator is to be used with and also characteristics of the portable excavator itself (e.g., larger portable excavators could require larger frames). Further, in certain embodiments, the frame can be designed in a size and shape for use with a particular light vehicle, such as a frame that fits the bed of a specific make/model/year. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous frame sizes and shapes that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate frame size and shape.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the frame is secured to a light vehicle in a permanent or semi-permanent manner. Semi-permanent frame installations may be accomplished, for instance, via bolting, friction fitting, screwing or otherwise mounting the frame to the bed of a light vehicle in a manner that secures the frame to the bed while allowing for the possibility of removal at a later time. Permanent installations of the frame may be accomplished, for instance, via welding, riveting or through the use of epoxies or other strong adhesives. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous ways in which the frame could be permanently or semi-permanently secured to the bed of a light vehicle, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate method for permanently or semi-permanently securing the frame to the bed of a light vehicle.
- Once the frame of the portable excavator is secured to the bed of the light vehicle, the excavator portion of the portable excavator may be removably installed on the frame. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the excavator portion of the portable excavator is removably secured to the frame. In this manner, the excavator portion can be installed and removed as needed, allowing the light vehicle to retain its usefulness with respect to its standard functionality.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the frame comprises one or more interfaces configured to allow for the excavator portion to be secured to the frame. In a preferred embodiment, the interfaces are self-centering interfaces and while any number of self-centering interfaces may be used, a preferred embodiment of the frame comprises 4 self-centering interfaces. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous types of interfaces that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any number and type of interfaces.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, an undercarriage of the excavator portion of the portable excavator is secured to the frame through these interfaces via one or more mounting means. Mounting means may include, but are not limited to, bolts, pins (e.g., lynch pins, hitch pins), screws, lug nuts or any combination thereof. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous types of mounting means that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate mounting means.
- In preferred embodiments of the present invention, mounting and removal of the excavator portion from the frame can be done with simple tools (e.g., wrench) and completed in a manner of minutes. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that certain embodiments could use quick release pins or other mounting devices, allowing for mounting and/or removal to be accomplished even quicker.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the excavator portion of the portable excavator is comprised of a power system, a boom, a control interface and an undercarriage. Preferred embodiments of the present invention may also include a seat or other cockpit for an operator to sit in during operation of the excavator.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the undercarriage, as noted above, is configured to receive the mounting means and secure the excavator portion of the portable excavator to the frame. The undercarriage further comprises a rotating portion which allows for the entire excavator portion to rotate as needed. Preferred embodiments of the present invention are capable of rotating a full 360 degrees. In this manner, the portable excavator can be mounted to the bed of a light vehicle and allowed to rotate into an operable position (e.g., boom facing off the back of the light vehicle) and a portability position (e.g., boom facing forward relative to the light vehicle in order to allow for the weight to be best distributed for driving purposes).
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the power system comprises one or more hydraulic pumps. These hydraulic pumps provide mobility to the boom, tools attached to the boom and the rotating portion of the undercarriage. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the power system may further be comprised of an internal combustion engine configured to provide power to the hydraulic pumps. In other embodiments, power may be provided to the hydraulic pumps via alternative power means, such as directly from the powertrain of the light vehicle, via battery packs, via electrical connections to residential or commercial electrical receptacles (e.g., 120v receptacles, 240v receptacles). One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous types of power systems that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate power system.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the boom of the portable excavator is comprised of a stick/dipper arm and one or more tools. The stick is similar to that of a standard excavator in that it is generally an arm with integrated hydraulics providing the ability to move the arm along various axes and operate the tool at the end of the boom. Tools that can be used with the portable excavator include, but are not limited to, buckets, drills, grapples, hooks or any combination thereof. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are any number and type of booms, sticks and tools that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate type of boom, sticks and/or tools.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, the portable excavator may be further enhanced through incorporating one or more support pylons to said low profile frame. In a preferred embodiment, these support pylons are removably securable to the low profile frame such that they may be adjustably extend from the bed of said light vehicle to a surface below, such as the ground or pavement. The purpose of the support pylons is to provide additional stability to the portable excavator when in operation. For instance, two support pylons may extend from the rear of the light vehicle and have support feet that rest on the surface below. The support pylons may be adjustable via one or more length adjustment means, such as through incorporation of multiple slots configured to receive one or more lynch pins or other locking means. Other adjustment means include, but are not limited to jacks, hydraulic actuators, linear actuators, crank assemblies, or any combination thereof. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous means for securing and adjusting the support pylons, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate type of securing and adjusting means.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, a light vehicle frame locking bracket can be used to assist with the mounting of the low-profile frame to the bed of a light vehicle. The light vehicle frame locking bracket may be, for instance, an arm extending between two or more points on the light vehicle is configured to be secured to structurally sound portions of the light vehicle, such as the frame of the light vehicle. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous types of light vehicle frame locking brackets that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention, and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate light vehicle frame locking brackets.
- According to an embodiment of the present invention, and similar to the light vehicle frame locking bracket, the low-profile frame may further utilize a rear frame support. The rear frame support is configured to secure a portion of the low-profile frame that is nearest to the rear end of the bed of the light vehicle to the light vehicle. Similar to the light vehicle frame locking bracket, the rear frame support is secured to structurally sound portions of the light vehicle and ensures the low-profile frame, when attached is secured to the bed of the light vehicle. One of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that there are numerous types of rear frame supports that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention and embodiments of the present invention are contemplated for use with any appropriate rear frame support.
- Turning now to
FIG. 1 , a perspective view of a light vehicle for use with a portable excavator, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. In this view, the bed of a standard pickup truck is shown. While this view is of a standard pickup truck, one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate that embodiments of the portable excavator of the present invention could be utilized with any light vehicle or other appropriate vehicle. - Turning now to
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a light vehicle with a low profile frame mounted to its bed, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. In this view, the light vehicle is equipped with a low-profile frame 11 mounted to the bed.Interfaces 12 of the low-profile frame 11 are oriented such that the low-profile frame 11 can receive the excavator portion of the invention thereupon and be retained on the low-profile frame 11 through use of one or more mounting means. - Turning now to
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a light vehicle with a low profile frame mounted to its bed, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. In this view, the light vehicle is equipped with a low-profile frame 11 mounted to the bed.Interfaces 12 of the low-profile frame 11 are oriented such that the low-profile frame 11 can receive the excavator portion of the invention thereupon and be retained on the low-profile frame 11 through use of one or more mounting means. Further, adjustable andremovable support pylons 13 are shown, extending from the rear of the bed of the light vehicle and positioned in a downward direction to provide support to the excavator through contact with a surface below. As shown in the figure, the support pylons are adjustably attached to the low-profile frame 11 via lynch pins. WhileFIG. 3 shows the attachment of thesupport pylons 13 to the low-profile frame 11 via lynch pins, one of ordinary skill in the art would appreciate there are numerous connection means that could be utilized with embodiments of the present invention. - Turning now to
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. In this view, the excavator portion is shown attached to the low-profile frame 11 at theundercarriage 14 of the excavator portion. The bulk of thepower system 15 is located underneath achair 19 of the excavator portion which is in convenient proximity to the control interface(s) 16. In front of the chair is theboom 17, which is shown with a tool attachment (i.e., bucket) 18. - Turning now to
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. In this view, the excavator portion is shown attached to the low-profile frame 11 at theundercarriage 14 of the excavator portion. The bulk of thepower system 15 is located underneath achair 19 of the excavator portion which is in convenient proximity to the control interface(s) 16. In front of the chair is theboom 17, which is shown with a tool attachment (i.e., bucket) 18. - Turning now to
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. In this view, the low-profile frame is not shown in order to highlight both the lightvehicle locking bracket 20 andrear frame support 21. These components are generally mounted to the bed of the light vehicle to secure the frame to the light vehicle and provide additional structural support for the light vehicle. - Turning now to
FIGS. 7-8 is a side view of a portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. In this view, various positions of rotation of the excavator portion are shown. It is highlighted here that the excavator portion can be rotated without restriction in 360 degrees for operation in any direction and to allow for convenient portability when mounted to the light vehicle. - Turning now to
FIG. 9 , an exploded view of the underside of a light vehicle is shown.Rear frame support 20 andframe locking bracket 21 are shown attached to the light vehicle in order to secure the low-profile frame 11 to the light vehicle. - While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description. The invention is capable of myriad modifications in various obvious aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
Claims (19)
1. A portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, said portable excavator comprising:
a low profile frame formed to fit in the bed of said light vehicle and comprising a plurality of interfaces;
an excavator comprising an undercarriage, a boom, a control interface and a power system;
said undercarriage is formed such that it can be secured to said low profile frame via a plurality of mounting means, wherein each mounting means engages with at least one of said interfaces of said plurality of interfaces of said low profile frame; and
said control interface and said power system work in conjunction with one another to operate the boom of said excavator.
2. The portable excavator of claim 1 , wherein said power system comprises one or more hydraulic pumps and an internal combustion engine.
3. The portable excavator of claim 1 , wherein said control interface comprises one or more controllers configured to provide directional input to said boom.
4. The portable excavator of claim 3 , wherein said controllers are joysticks.
5. The portable excavator of claim 1 , wherein said interfaces are self-centering interfaces.
6. The portable excavator of claim 1 , wherein said mounting means are threaded bolts.
7. The portable excavator of claim 1 , further comprising one or more support pylons removably securable to said low profile frame and configured to adjustably extend from the bed of said light vehicle to a surface below and provide additional stability to the excavator when said excavator is in operation.
8. The portable excavator of claim 1 , further comprising one or more light vehicle frame locking bracket configured to secure said low-profile frame to said bed.
9. The portable excavator of claim 1 , wherein said low-profile frame is affixed to said bed of said light vehicle.
10. The portable excavator of claim 1 , wherein said boom comprises a tool arm configured to receive one or more tools selected from the group comprising a bucket, a grapple and a drill.
11. The portable excavator of claim 1 , wherein said excavator is configured to rotate 360 degrees in the bed of said light vehicle.
12. A portable excavator for mounting to a light vehicle, said portable excavator comprising:
a low profile frame formed to fit in the bed of said light vehicle and comprising a plurality of interfaces;
an excavator comprising an undercarriage formed such that it can be secured to said low profile frame via a plurality of mounting means, wherein each mounting means engages with at least one of said interfaces of said plurality of interfaces of said low profile frame.
13. The portable excavator of claim 12 , wherein said interfaces are self-centering interfaces.
14. The portable excavator of claim 12 , wherein said mounting means are threaded bolts.
15. The portable excavator of claim 12 , further comprising one or more support pylons removably securable to said low profile frame and configured to adjustably extend from the bed of said light vehicle to a surface below and provide additional stability to the excavator when said excavator is in operation.
16. The portable excavator of claim 12 , further comprising one or more light vehicle frame locking bracket configured to secure said low-profile frame to said bed.
17. The portable excavator of claim 12 , wherein said low-profile frame is affixed to said bed of said light vehicle.
18. The portable excavator of claim 1 , wherein said excavator comprises a tool arm configured to receive one or more tools selected from the group comprising a bucket, a grapple and a drill.
19. The portable excavator of claim 1 , wherein said excavator is configured to rotate 360 degrees in the bed of said light vehicle.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/659,304 US20150259873A1 (en) | 2014-03-16 | 2015-03-16 | Mini excavator for pick-up trucks and other light vehicles |
PCT/US2015/020798 WO2015142751A1 (en) | 2014-03-16 | 2015-03-16 | Mini excavator for pick-up trucks and other light vehicles |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US201461953859P | 2014-03-16 | 2014-03-16 | |
US14/659,304 US20150259873A1 (en) | 2014-03-16 | 2015-03-16 | Mini excavator for pick-up trucks and other light vehicles |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20150259873A1 true US20150259873A1 (en) | 2015-09-17 |
Family
ID=54068319
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US14/659,304 Abandoned US20150259873A1 (en) | 2014-03-16 | 2015-03-16 | Mini excavator for pick-up trucks and other light vehicles |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
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US (1) | US20150259873A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2015142751A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN110712583A (en) * | 2019-11-12 | 2020-01-21 | 安徽同博专用车制造有限公司 | Vehicle-mounted excavator |
US20220356670A1 (en) * | 2021-05-05 | 2022-11-10 | Workhorse Atv, Llc | System and methods for a universal, mobile backhoe system |
US12024849B2 (en) * | 2022-05-05 | 2024-07-02 | Workhorse Atv, Llc | System and methods for a universal, mobile backhoe system |
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US3734319A (en) * | 1969-12-23 | 1973-05-22 | Tico Ab | Method and device for detachable coupling together of implement and vehicle |
US4643320A (en) * | 1983-12-16 | 1987-02-17 | Hiab Export A/S | Crane bracket for mounting over the chassis side members of a truck |
WO2006009356A1 (en) * | 2004-07-16 | 2006-01-26 | Daeho Co., Ltd | Detachable mini crane for vehicle and detachable method thereof |
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US7712485B2 (en) * | 2006-09-05 | 2010-05-11 | Coactive Technologies, Inc. | Control lever |
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US2753637A (en) * | 1953-07-17 | 1956-07-10 | Thomas William | Adjustable self-balancing excavating apparatus |
US4648780A (en) * | 1985-08-26 | 1987-03-10 | J. I. Case Company | Truck mounted backhoe |
US5203656A (en) * | 1991-09-19 | 1993-04-20 | Hong Kong Disc Lock Company, Limited | Self-centering, self-tightening fastener |
US5490755A (en) * | 1994-07-06 | 1996-02-13 | Billotte; Keith W. | Self-propelled loader carrier |
US20140123524A1 (en) * | 2007-04-10 | 2014-05-08 | Bradley V. Ayers | Backhoe assembly |
-
2015
- 2015-03-16 WO PCT/US2015/020798 patent/WO2015142751A1/en active Application Filing
- 2015-03-16 US US14/659,304 patent/US20150259873A1/en not_active Abandoned
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US3734319A (en) * | 1969-12-23 | 1973-05-22 | Tico Ab | Method and device for detachable coupling together of implement and vehicle |
US4643320A (en) * | 1983-12-16 | 1987-02-17 | Hiab Export A/S | Crane bracket for mounting over the chassis side members of a truck |
WO2006009356A1 (en) * | 2004-07-16 | 2006-01-26 | Daeho Co., Ltd | Detachable mini crane for vehicle and detachable method thereof |
US20060104785A1 (en) * | 2004-09-20 | 2006-05-18 | Roger Vachon | Backhoe for all-terrain vehicles |
US7712485B2 (en) * | 2006-09-05 | 2010-05-11 | Coactive Technologies, Inc. | Control lever |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN110712583A (en) * | 2019-11-12 | 2020-01-21 | 安徽同博专用车制造有限公司 | Vehicle-mounted excavator |
US20220356670A1 (en) * | 2021-05-05 | 2022-11-10 | Workhorse Atv, Llc | System and methods for a universal, mobile backhoe system |
US12024849B2 (en) * | 2022-05-05 | 2024-07-02 | Workhorse Atv, Llc | System and methods for a universal, mobile backhoe system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
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WO2015142751A1 (en) | 2015-09-24 |
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