WO2019076425A1

WO2019076425A1 - A closable bucket assembly for a working machine

Info

Publication number: WO2019076425A1
Application number: PCT/EP2017/076304
Authority: WO
Inventors: Przemyslaw KALUSKI
Original assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment Ab
Priority date: 2017-10-16
Filing date: 2017-10-16
Publication date: 2019-04-25

Abstract

The invention relates to a closable bucket assembly (3) for a working machine (1) comprising: a first part (50), a second part (60) and a ground engaging edge (70, 70') for engaging and penetrating a material (91). The ground engaging edge (70, 70') is disposed on one of the first part and the second part. The first part has a material access opening (52) for receiving material and a receptacle (54) for storing said material during transportation, and further an attachment point (58) for attachment of said assembly (3) to said working machine (1). The second part (60) is pivotably connected to the first part (50) and movable between a first fixation position (80) and a second fixation position (82), wherein the assembly is configured to assume a closed state in the first fixation position (80), in which said second part (60) is arranged to abut against said first part (59) and to cover said access opening (52), thereby preventing material escaping from said access opening (52), and further configured to assume an open state in said second fixation position (82), in which said second part (60) is pivoted relative said first part (50) so that said ground engaging edge (70, 70') is capable of engaging and penetrating said material upon operation of said assembly (3).

Description

A closable bucket assembly for a working machine

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to a closable bucket assembly for a working machine, such as a wheel loader. The invention also relates to a vehicle comprising such a bucket assembly, e.g. a wheel loader comprising such a bucket assembly. The invention is applicable on working machines within the fields of industrial construction machines or construction equipment, in particular wheel loaders. Although the invention will be described with respect to a wheel loader, the invention is not restricted to this particular machine, but may also be used in other working machines such as articulated haulers, excavators and backhoe loaders.

BACKGROUND

Working machines, such as wheel loaders, are used in a wide variety of applications. In many applications, the wheel loader also uses an implement such as a bucket to penetrate into material in a pile or a work surface, e.g. the ground to scoop the material, and subsequently dump it in a desired location. In connection with automatic handling of heterogeneous piled materials, the bucket is often one of the key components in performing a desired operation by the working machine, which normally is an automated wheel loader. A typical work cycle of an autonomous wheel loader working in these applications consists of three repeated tasks: loading, hauling, and dumping. Hauling between the load and dump points can be handled in a number of ways, but typically a wheel loader having a bucket is used for transporting material from a source, e.g. a smaller pile, to an articulated hauler. In the following step of the operation, the hauler transports the material to a main pile, and thereafter dumps it into the main pile, which can either be a manual operation or a preprogrammed motion. Finally, the material is loaded to a container, a load receiver or the like, and thereafter transported to a working site. Each cycle in this type of operation requires a certain number of working step, and currently there are few practical solutions for fully autonomous vehicles performing the entire operation. In addition, the operation and the various cycles are repeated many times over, often with pauses or other operations between some of the cycles. Further, for economical and environmental reasons, it is important that the bucket is filled maximally in each load cycle. Accordingly, the buckets will not only be subjected to extreme loads and wear while performing a material moving or digging operation, but must also endure a desired number of cycles or hours of operation.

For efficient loading and handling of material during a work cycle it would be desirable to optimize the operations of the wheel loader. In particular, it would be desirable to optimize the functionality of wheel loaders during the work cycle so as to extend the use of the wheel loader. Yet further, it would be desirable to provide a more versatile type of bucket for a working machine such as a wheel loader.

SUMMARY

An object of the invention is to provide a closable bucket assembly for a working machine, which bucket assembly is capable of both digging material from a pile at a work site as well as providing an enclosed container space for storing and transporting the material in a safe and efficient manner.

The object is at least partly achieved by a closable bucket assembly according to claim 1 . According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a closable bucket assembly for a working machine. The closable bucket assembly comprises a first part, a second part and a ground engaging edge for engaging and penetrating a material. The ground engaging edge is disposed on one of the first part and the second part. Moreover, the first part has a material access opening for receiving material and a receptacle for storing the material during transportation. The first part also comprises an attachment point for attachment of the bucket assembly to the working machine.

Further, the second part is pivotably connected to the first part and movable between a first fixation position and a second fixation position. The assembly is configured to assume a closed state in the first fixation position, in which the second part is arranged to abut against the first part and to cover the access opening, thereby preventing material escaping from the access opening. The assembly is also configured to assume an open state in the second fixation position, in which the second part is pivoted relative the first part so that the ground engaging edge is capable of engaging and penetrating the material upon operation of the bucket assembly.

That is, the second part is pivoted from the first fixation position to the second fixation position to assume the open state. As such, in the open state, the second part is arranged in the second fixation position and the ground engaging edge is positioned in a direction permitting the edge to engage and penetrate the material or the work surface.

In this manner, it becomes possible to provide an implement for a working machine in the form of an assembly for digging and transportation of material at a work site. By the provision of permitting the bucket assembly to be set in the open state in the second fixation position, the bucket assembly can be used as a conventional bucket by a working machine for digging material from a pile by directing the ground engaging edge towards the pile to penetrate the material, while the provision of permitting the bucket assembly to be set in the closed state in the first fixation position provides an enclosed space for storing the material when the bucket assembly has been filled with material from the pile at the working site. As such, not only the functionality of the implement is improved, but also the functionality and operational capacity of the wheel loader may be extended in terms of increased efficiency and utilization over several operational steps, and without compromising other operational aspects relating to quality, fuel consumption, machine emissions (for regular and hybrid machines), at least under several steps of the working cycle at the work site.

In other words, the example embodiments of the invention provides a multifunctional bucket assembly for a working machine, allowing the working machine to perform the operational steps in the work cycles in a more efficient manner. That is, the closable bucket assembly is both configured to be used as a conventional bucket for digging material when it is in the open configuration, i.e. a digging state, and as a closed container for storing and transporting material between various locations when it is in the closed configuration, i.e. a closed container state.

In particular, the closed state configuration of the bucket assembly permits the bucket assembly to be closed and decoupled from the working machine after it has been filled with the digging material from the pile. As such, the bucket assembly according to various example embodiments contributes to a more efficient and safer handling of the material during transportation to e.g. a movable platform or the like. In fact, the entire bucket assembly (filled with material) may in some examples be positioned on the movable platform for further transportation. When the first bucket assembly has been decoupled from the machine, the working machine can move on to connect with another empty closable bucket assembly for further digging. Thus, the bucket assembly according to various example embodiments provides a more efficient working cycle for digging and transporting material at a working site compared to hitherto known prior art systems.

Further, it becomes possible to reduce the number of operational steps, or at least streamline the operational steps in the working cycle as the material is already located inside a transportation unit, i.e. the closed state of the bucket assembly, thus enabling a direct transportation of the filled closed bucket assembly to another point of location, instead of dumping the material from the bucket to a separate container. As such, the closed bucket assembly is permitted to be directly transferred to a platform, such as a movable platform, which is a storage for loaded and empty containers. The platform may likewise be a weight-measuring platform, a charger station that can charge battery placed on the bucket assembly or charge various types of electrical wheel loaders.

As mentioned above, the example embodiment of the bucket assembly comprises the ground engaging edge. The ground engaging edge can be defined by the first part or the second part of the bucket assembly depending on the design of the assembly.

In one example embodiment, the second part is pivotably connected relative the first part at a top region of the first part. In this example, the ground engaging edge is disposed in the front of the first part, thereby permitting a portion of the first part of the assembly to engage and penetrate the material via the ground engaging edge.

In other words, the ground engaging edge is arranged on the part of the bucket assembly that is to be attached to the working machine.

This type of configuration of the first and second parts of the assembly provides a stable digging configuration being similar to the shape of a traditional bucket, in which the first part having the ground engaging edge is used for penetrating the material, while the second part serves to cover the access opening of the first part when the digging operation is completed, thus ensuring that the bucket assembly can be set to resemble a closed container (i.e. the closed state) during transportation.

In another example embodiment, the second part is pivotably connected relative the first part at a bottom region of the first part. In this example, the ground engaging edge is disposed in the front of the pivotably second part, thereby permitting the pivotably second part of the assembly to engage and penetrate the material via the ground engaging edge.

In other words, the ground engaging edge is arranged on the second part of the bucket assembly. The second part is the part of the bucket assembly that is not directly attached to the working machine.

In this type of configuration of the first and second parts of the assembly, the second part can be operated to improve the distribution of the excavated material in the first part as the second part is movable between the second fixation position and the first fixation position. Hence, the excavated material on the surface of the second part can be transported to the first part and distributed within the receptacle of the first part upon a closing movement of the second part relative the first part. The pivotably connected second part may also be changeable, thus enabling that the bucket assembly can be used for different types or material, e.g. sand, stone etc., without changing the entire bucket assembly.

Typically, although not strictly required, the second part may have spaced apart side sections for supporting and directing the material to the receptacle of the first part. As an example, each side section projects upwardly from an inner surface of the second part and extends at least a substantial length between the ground engaging edge and an opposite arranged outer edge of the second part. In this manner, the second part of the bucket assembly is designed to further improve the transportation of the material from the digging part (second part) to the container part (first part), i.e. the side sections assist the material to enter the first part in an efficient manner, while reducing the risk of material spillage when the second part is used to dig and penetrate the material.

The spaced apart side sections may be adapted to be positioned inside the first part when the assembly is in the closed state. In this manner, there is provided an even better closed state configuration of the first and second parts as the side sections will be positioned inside the first part so as to further reduce the risk of having a material leakage during transportation.

In some example embodiments, each one of the spaced apart side sections comprises a first inclined upper edge defined at a first angle with respect to the inner surface of the second part and a second inclined upper edge distal to the first inclined upper edge, and defined at a second angle with respect to the inner surface. In this manner, the positioning of the second part inside the first part is further facilitated, while the second part may better abut against the first part.

Typically, the second part has an inner surface area at least corresponding to the area of the access opening of the first part.

The second part may be pivotably connected to the first part and movable between the two positions in several different ways. In one example embodiment, the assembly further comprises a pivoting member for moving the pivotably second part between the first and second fixation positions and locking the pivotably second part at least in the first and second fixation positions. Typically, the second part is arranged to pivot about a pivot point by means of the pivoting member. By way of example, the pivoting member may be provided in the form of an actuator configured to move and fixate the second part relative the first of the bucket assembly. However, other options are also conceivable such as a gas cylinder or the like.

In some example embodiments, the second part is detachable connected to the first part. In one example embodiment, the second part is a lid member extending a substantial part in a length direction and in a width direction. By way of example, the lid member is an essentially flat lid member extending in the length direction and in the width direction. Alternatively, the lid member can be a tilted member defined by a first inner surface region being tilted relative a second inner surface region.

It should be readily appreciated that the shape and dimensions of the first part and second part may vary for different types of wheel loaders depending on the type of use and installation of the bucket assembly.

Typically, the shape of the first part resembles an open hollow three-dimensional object such as a cube, rectangular prisms or the like. In other words, according to various example embodiments, the first part is an open-ended hollow three-dimensional part. In this context, the term open-ended hollow three-dimensional part refers to a three- dimensional part having a side with an opening to the inner space of the three- dimensional part. Hence, the part has a hollow part defining an inner space (receptacle) with an opening on one side of the part. One example of an open-ended hollow three- dimensional part is an open cube.

In some example embodiments, the first part essentially resembles a hollow cube having opposite arranged side walls extending between a lower section and an upper section, a rear section and a front region being at least partly defined by the access opening. Hence, in this example, the first part is an open cube with an inner space in the form of the receptacle.

Typically, the attachment point on the first part is arranged on the rear section.

In some example embodiments, the closable bucket assembly is an inter- connectable bucket assembly comprising an inter-connection for inter-connecting with another closable bucket assembly.

In one example embodiment, the second part comprises an upper part being pivotably connected to a top region of the first part and a lower part being pivotably connected to a bottom region of the first part. Further, the upper part and the lower part are movable relative each other so that the second part is openable and closable by pivoting any one of the upper part and the lower part relative the first part. In this example, the ground engaging edge is disposed on the lower part of the second part.

The first part may further comprise an openable bottom plate having an openable portion for emptying material from the first part.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for transporting material on a mobile platform comprising a plurality of inter-connectable bucket assemblies according to any one of the example embodiments described above in relation to the first aspect.

Effects and features of the second aspect are largely analogous to those described above in relation to the first aspect.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a vehicle, such as a working machine, comprising a closable bucket assembly according to any one of the example embodiments described above in relation to the first aspect.

Effects and features of the third aspect are largely analogous to those described above in relation to the first aspect and/or second aspects.

In the context of the present invention, the term "operatively connected" typically refers to that a component is arranged in a manner to another component such that the components can work together, i.e. they are connected with each other to perform a desired function.

Further features of, and advantages with, the present invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following description. The skilled person will realize that different features of the present invention may be combined to create embodiments other than those described in the following, without departing from the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present invention, will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of exemplary embodiments of the present invention, wherein:

Fig. 1 is a lateral side view illustrating a working machine in the form of a wheel loader, which is provided with a closable bucket assembly according to an example embodiment of the present invention; Figs. 2a-2b schematically illustrate parts of a first example embodiment of a bucket assembly according to the present invention, in which the bucket assembly is in a closed state and in an open state, respectively;

Fig. 2c is an enlarged view of a section of the bucket assembly in the open state, as illustrated in fig. 2a; Fig. 2d is an enlarged view of a section of the bucket assembly in the closed state, as illustrated in fig. 2b; Fig. 2e schematically illustrates parts of a second example embodiment of a bucket assembly according to the present invention, in which the bucket assembly is in the open state;

Figs. 3a-3b schematically illustrate parts of a third example embodiment of a bucket assembly, in which the bucket assembly is in the closed state and in the open state;

Figs. 4a-4b schematically illustrate parts of a fourth example embodiment of a bucket assembly according to the present invention, in which the bucket assembly is in the closed state and in the opened state;

Figs. 5a-5b schematically illustrate parts of a fifth example embodiment of a bucket assembly according to the present invention, in which the bucket assembly is in the closed state and in the opened state; Fig. 6 schematically illustrates parts of an example embodiment of the present invention, in which a number of closable bucket assemblies is arranged on a movable platform in an inter-connected configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown. The invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness. Like reference character refer to like elements throughout the description.

Fig. 1 is a lateral side view illustrating an example embodiment of a working machine in the form of a loader vehicle 1 having an implement 2 for loading operations. The loader vehicle 1 depicted in Fig. 1 is in the form of an articulated wheel loader. The term "implement" is intended to comprise any kind of hydraulically operated tool, such as a bucket, a fork or a gripping tool arranged on the loader vehicle 1 . The implement 2 illustrated in Fig. 1 comprises a bucket assembly 3 which is arranged on a loading unit assembly 4 for lifting and lowering the bucket 3. The bucket 3 can also be tilted or pivoted relative to the loading unit assembly 4. The loader vehicle 1 is provided with a hydraulic system comprising at least one hydraulic machine (not shown), such as e.g. a hydraulic pump. The loader vehicle 1 further comprises a hydraulic lift cylinder 5, for lifting operation of the loading unit assembly 4 and a hydraulic tilt cylinder 6 for tilting the bucket assembly 3 relative to the loading unit assembly 4. Furthermore, the hydraulic system comprises steering cylinders 7a, 7b for turning the loader vehicle 1 by means of relative movement of a front unit 8 and a rear unit 9 around a substantially vertical geometric axis 10 of an articulated joint arrangement 12. The front unit 8 and the rear unit 9 comprise a respective pair of ground engaging members 20, 22. The ground engaging members 20, 22 are in the example embodiment a respective pair of wheels. In other words, the loader vehicle 1 is frame-steered by means of the steering cylinders 7a, 7b. That is, the wheel loader in fig. 1 is a so called frame-steered working machine. In addition, as illustrated in fig. 1 , the working machine comprises a closable bucket assembly according to an example embodiment of the present invention. The closable bucket assembly 3 is described in further detail with reference to figs. 2a - 2e, 3a - 3b, 4a - 4b, 5a - 5b and 6.

Optionally, although not strictly required, the wheel loader may further comprise a steering system for enabling propagation of the bucket along a bucket trajectory in a pile 91 .

For the sake of facilitating the understanding of some example embodiments of the invention, the example of the vehicle 1 in fig. 1 is here illustrated in the form of a wheel loader 1 , and the following example embodiments of the invention are described based on an exemplary wheel loader to illustrate the configuration of the closable bucket assembly. However, such does not mean that the invention will be limited to an installation of the closable bucket assembly in a wheel loader. In contrary, the vehicle may be any type of working machine intended for carrying out a loading operation by means of a bucket assembly. It should also be readily appreciated that throughout the description of the example embodiments of the present invention, the wheel loader may sometimes be referred to as the working machine or simply as the machine, the loader, loader vehicle or the like. Similarly, the closable bucket assembly may sometimes be referred to as the bucket assembly, or simply as the bucket or the assembly. Now with reference to Fig. 2, an example embodiment of a closable bucket assembly according to the present invention is illustrated. The bucket assembly 3 is intended for use with a working machine as in fig. 1 to perform material moving operations such as digging, scooping, lifting, transporting, lowering, and dumping. Also, as illustrated already in fig. 1 , the working machine may include a loading unit assembly, sometimes also referred to a linkage assembly, coupled to the bucket assembly for manipulating the bucket assembly as desired.

The bucket assembly 3 here extends in a length direction L, a width direction (or transverse direction) W and in a height direction H. As shown in the figures, the directions forms a conventional coordinate system, i.e. the three coordinate axes are given, each perpendicular to the other two at the origin, the point at which they cross. In other words, the length direction is perpendicular to the width direction. Analogously, the length direction is perpendicular to the height direction. Analogously, the height direction is perpendicular to the width direction.

As illustrated in e.g. figs. 2a-2d, the bucket assembly 3 comprises a first part 50 and a second part 60. The second part 60 is further pivotably connected to the first part 50, as will be further described hereinafter. In this example, the first part 50 essentially resembles a hollow cube. In particular, the first part 50 resembles an open hollow cube, i.e. a hollow cube with an open side. The assembly includes an upper section 59, middle or central section 33, and a front region 53. The first part 50 further has opposite arranged side sections, here in the form of a pair of opposite arranged side walls 55 and 56, which extends between a lower section 57 and an upper section 59, a rear section 51 and a front region 53 being at least partly defined by a material access opening 52. That is, the first part 50 includes a pair of side sections 55, 56 extending along the sides of the upper section, the central section and the lower section. Typically, the distance between the side sections defines the width of the bucket assembly 3. In other words, each side section or side wall extends along each transverse edge of the upper section 59, the central section 33, the front region 53 and the lower section 57, respectively. As such, each side section interconnects the upper section 59 with the lower section 57. The rear section 51 is typically the trailing section, while the front region 53 is typically the leading region, as seen when the bucket assembly 3 is operated by a wheel loader in a driving direction.

Analogously, the distance between the upper and lower sections typically defines the height of the bucket assembly 3. Analogously, the distance between the rear section and the front region defines the length of the bucket assembly 3. It should be readily appreciated, however, that the bucket assembly may be provided in several other different shapes and dimensions such as an open hollow rectangular prism or the like. Thus, the above example relating to a hollow cube having an open side is merely one of many examples. The shape and dimensions of the first part 5 may be selected depending on the use of the bucket assembly. Typically, although not strictly necessary, the shape and dimensions of first part and the bucket assembly should be selected so that the assembly can fit within boundaries of a mobile platform, see e.g. fig. 6. In addition, the shape and dimensions of the first part and the bucket assembly may be selected in view of the dimensions of a conventional railway.

10 Moreover, as illustrated in the figs. 2a-2d and as mentioned above, the first part 50 comprises the material access opening 52 for receiving material. As depicted in the figures, the material access opening is arranged in the front region 53 of the first part 50. In the example described in relation to figs. 2a-2d, the front region 53 is normally directed towards the material or work surface upon a digging or engaging operation of the wheel

15 loader, see e.g. fig. 1 .

In addition, the first part 50 has a receptacle 54 for storing the material during transportation. That is, the receptacle 54 holds material being moved by the bucket assembly 3. Typically, although not strictly required, the receptacle is defined at least by the central section 33 of the first part. In other words, the receptacle 54 is partly defined

20 by the first part 50 of the bucket assembly. In the example illustrated in figs. 2a-2d, the receptacle is defined by portions of the upper section 59, the side sections 55 and 56, the lower section 57, the rear section 51 and the access opening of the front region 53. In particular, in this example, the receptacle is defined by portions of inner facing surfaces of the upper section 59, the side sections 55 and 56, the lower section 57, the rear section

25 51 and the access opening of the front region 53. To this end, the first part 50 has an inner volume in the form the receptacle. The inner volume is partly defined by the inner facing surfaces of the upper section 59, the side sections 55 and 56, the lower section 57, the rear section 51 and the access opening of the front region 53.

It should be noted that the terms top, upper, lower and bottom, as well as any

30 other similar terms are used in reference to the position of the bucket assembly 3 as depicted in the drawings and the bucket assembly may be positioned and used in other orientations. Further, the terms front, and other similar terms refer to the open end of the first part 50 of the bucket assembly 3, while the terms rear, and other similar terms refer to the opposite or closed end of the first part of the bucket assembly. In addition, the term

35 side, or laterally and other similar terms refers to the direction parallel to the width of the first part of the bucket assembly 3 (i.e., the direction extending between the side sections 55 and 56).

The closable bucket assembly 3 can be operatively connected to the wheel loader in several different ways. Typically, the bucket assembly 3 is operatively connected to the loading unit assembly 4 for lifting and lowering the bucket 3. That is, the first part 50 of the bucket assembly 3 is operatively connected to the wheel loader 1 . The first part should be operatively connected to the wheel loader so as to permit the bucket assembly to be tilted or pivoted relative to the loading unit assembly 4. As such, the bucket assembly is permitted to lift and tilt in response to the operation of the hydraulic lift cylinder 5 and the hydraulic tilt cylinder 6, respectively.

In this example of the bucket assembly, the bucket assembly is operatively connected to the wheel loader via the attachment point arranged on the first part 50. Hence, the first part has an attachment point 58 for attachment of the bucket assembly 3 to the wheel loader 1 . In this manner, the first part 50 of the closable bucket assembly is operatively connected to the wheel loader. By way of example, the attachment point 58 on the first part 50 is arranged on the rear section 51 . The attachment point is configured to operatively connect the first part 50 of the assembly with the wheel loader, typically via the loading unit assembly. The attachment point may comprise one or several different types of fixation and locking solutions, e.g. a quick-lock mechanism. Thus, in some examples, the attachment point comprises at least one of a universal quick coupler with a Front-Pin Lock, a symmetrical quick coupler, s-type quick coupler or the like. This type of attachment points may allow the operator to change the bucket assembly in an efficient manner and without leaving the cab of the wheel loader. This type of attachment point may be a standard solution, which is available and used on many implements as of today, and thus not further described herein. In other examples, the attachment point is a mechanical coupler, an electro-magnetic coupler or the like. It should also be appreciated that the attachment point may be arranged on other sections of the first part of the assembly, e.g. the upper section. The attachment point can either be an integral part of the first part 50, or a separate part attached to the first part of the assembly. For instance, the attachment point may be a separate part connected to the rear section of the first part 50.

Turning again to the figs. 2a-2d, the bucket assembly 3 also comprises the second part 60 being pivotably connected to the first part 50. As illustrated in fig. 2a, the second part 60 is pivotably connected to the first part 50 and movable between a first fixation position 80 and a second fixation position 82. In the example embodiment described in relation to figs. 2a-2d, the second part 60 is pivotably connected relative the first part 50 at a bottom region 47 of the first part 50. As illustrated in e.g. fig. 2c, the second part 60 is pivotably connected relative the first part 50 at the front of the bottom region 47 of the first part 50. That is, the front of the bottom region typically refers to the leading part of the 5 bottom region of the first part, as shown in the figs. The front part is positioned opposite the rear section of the first part.

Typically, the bottom region 47 is part of the lower section 57. That is, the lower section of the first part comprises the bottom region 47.

The pivotably connected second part 60 forms a pivot connection with the first part

10 50. That is, the pivotably connection provides a pivot point 95 about which the second part 60 can pivot relative the first part 50 when moving between the first fixation position 80 and the second fixation position 82.

In this example embodiment, as shown in figs 2a-2d, the second part 60 is pivotably connected relative the first part 50 by a pivoting member 90. The pivoting

15 member 90 is configured to permit the second part 60 to pivot relative the first part 50.

That is, the pivoting member 90 is configured to permit the second part 60 to pivot about the pivot point 95 so that the second part 60 can pivot relative the first part 50. In addition, the pivoting member 90 is further configured to fixate, i.e. to lock, the second part 60 in the first fixation position 80 and in the second fixation position 82 relative the first part 50.

20 By way of example, the pivoting member may thus comprise a locking mechanism.

Hence, the pivoting member 90 here comprises a locking mechanism adapted to fixate the second part 60 in the first fixation position 80 and the second fixation position 82 relative the first part 50.

In the example embodiment described in relation to figs. 2a-2d, the pivotably

25 connection between the second part 60 and the first part 50 is provided by an actuator. In this example, the actuator provides both the function of pivoting the second part relative the first part as well as the function of fixating the second part in the first fixation position and the second fixation position relative the first part. Hence, in this example, the actuator is both the pivoting member and the locking mechanism. Further, as shown in the figs. 2a-

30 2d, the pivotably connection extends along the bucket assembly in the width direction W, also sometimes denoted as the transverse direction.

In one embodiment, the bucket assembly 3 thus has a pivoting member 90 extending transversely through the bucket assembly and provides a pivot point 95 about which the second part of the assembly can pivot in relation to the first part of the

35 assembly. As mentioned above, the pivoting member 90 may be, in one embodiment, an actuator that extends transversely through the bucket assembly and that may be fixed at one or more points to the first part 50 and the second part 60 of the assembly. In another embodiment, the pivoting member may be a gas cylinder or a hydraulic cylinder that extends transversely through the bucket assembly and that may be fixed at one or more points to the first part and the second part of the assembly.

Accordingly, the second part 60 can be pivotably connected to the first part 50 in several different ways. For example, the pivotably connection may comprise the actuator. Typically, the actuator is configured to pivot the second part relative the first part. In the example as described in relation to figs. 2a-2d and in the other example embodiments as described herein, the assembly 3 comprises a set of two actuators 90, 90', arranged on opposite transverse ends in the front of the lower section, each actuator being configured to move the pivotably second part 60 between the first and second fixation positions 80, 82 and to lock the pivotably second part 60 at least in the first and second fixation positions 80, 82. In other words, the actuator is here configured to move the pivotably second part 60 between the first and second fixation positions and further configured to lock the pivotably second part 60 at least in the first and second fixation positions 80, 82.

One example of a suitable actuator is a hydraulic cylinder. Depending on the dimensions, use and type of operation of the bucket assembly, the pivotably connection may comprise one or several hydraulic cylinders. The use of actuators, such as hydraulic cylinders, in providing a pivotably connection between two operatively connected components is commonly known, and therefore not further described in detail herein. It should also be readily appreciated that the function of moving and locking the second part 60 relative the first part 50 may in other example embodiments be achieved in other ways than by means of an actuator, e.g. by a gas cylinder, as mentioned above.

The pivotably connection can be an integral part of the first part of the assembly.

In addition, or alternatively, the pivotably connection can be an integral part of the second part of the assembly. However, the pivotably connection is typically a separate part being attached to the first part of the assembly, while connecting the pivotably second part with the first part of the assembly. In other words, the design of the pivotably connection can vary as long as the second part is capable of being pivotably connected relative the first part.

Further, the movement of the second part 60 relative the first part 50 and the fixation of the second part relative the first part can be controlled in various manners. By way of example, the movement of the second part relative the first part and the fixation of the second part relative the first part can be controlled by a control unit 88. The control unit may be arranged remote from the bucket assembly, e.g. on the wheel loader. In addition, or alternatively, the movement of the second part relative the first part and the fixation of the second part relative the first part can be controlled by the user of the wheel loader in a similar manner as the tilting operation of the bucket assembly, or in relation to any other operation of the bucket assembly. By way of example, the control unit 88 is arranged on the wheel loader 3, e.g. in the cab of the wheel loader 3, see e.g. fig. 1 .

The control unit may include a microprocessor, microcontroller, programmable digital signal processor or another programmable device. The control unit may also, or instead, include an application specific integrated circuit, a programmable gate array or programmable array logic, a programmable logic device, or a digital signal processor. Where the control unit includes a programmable device such as the microprocessor, microcontroller or programmable digital signal processor mentioned above, the processor may further include computer executable code that controls operation of the programmable device.

As mentioned above, the second part 60 can move between the first position 80 and the second position 82. In these two positions, the second part is capable of being fixated relative the first part 50. Thus, the second part 60 is pivotably connected to the first part 50 and movable between the first fixation position 80 and the second fixation position 82. When the second part 60 is in the first fixation position 80 relative the first part 50, the assembly is arranged in a closed configuration. The closed configuration of the assembly is depicted in fig. 2b. That is, the assembly 3 is here configured to assume a closed state in the first fixation position 80, in which the second part 60 is arranged to abut against the first part 59 and to cover the access opening 52. Thereby, it becomes possible to prevent material escaping from the access opening 52. Accordingly, the second part generally has an inner surface area at least corresponding to the area of the access opening of the first part. In this manner, the access opening is covered entirely by the inner surface area of the second part when the second part abuts against the first part, i.e. when the bucket assembly is in its closed state. In fig. 2b, there is depicted a closed state of the assembly, in which the access opening 52 is covered entirely by the inner surface area 62 of the second part 60 when the second part 60 abuts against the first part 50.

As shown in fig. 2b, when the bucket assembly is in the closed state, outer surface edges 76 and 77 of the second part 60 typically abut against the outer surface edges 43 and 44 of the first part. In this example, the outer surface edges 76 and 77 of the second part 60 are in contact with the outer surface edges 43 and 44 of the first part when the bucket assembly is in the first fixation position 80. In the closed state, the receptacle 54 of the first part forms an enclosed space as the access opening 52 is covered by a portion of the second part 50. Hence, in the closed state, the receptacle 54 of the first part 50 is further delimited by the second part 50. In other words, the receptacle, which here is defined by portions of the inner facing surfaces of the upper section 59, the side sections 55 and 56, the lower section 57, the rear section 51 and the access opening of the front region 53 is further defined by a portion of the second part covering the access opening (i.e. at least when the assembly is in the closed state), so that an enclosed area is obtained by the first part 50 and the second part 60 of the assembly. Hence, the pivotably second part 60 is adapted to perform a closing movement when moving from the second fixation position to the first fixation position.

The locking function or the fixation of the second part in the first fixation position and the second fixation position can be obtained by the pivoting member, the locking mechanism or by the pivotably connection itself. Hence in some embodiments, the pivotably connection comprises the pivoting member adapted to lock the second part in at least the first fixation position and the second fixation position. The pivoting member may also be a part of one of the first part 50 and the second part 60. As mentioned above, the pivoting member may also comprise the locking mechanism. Thus, the locking mechanism is typically provided by e.g. the actuator, the gas cylinder or the like.

The locking mechanism may also in some example be provided by an electromechanical locking mechanism or the like. Further alternatives are conceivable depending on the type of installation and type of design of the bucket assembly.

Although the distance between the first position 80 and the second position 82 may vary depending on the design of the assembly 3, the second part 60 may typically pivot at least 90 degrees relative the first part 50, as illustrated in e.g. fig. 2a. Generally, the second part 60 may pivot between 90 degrees to 150 degrees relative the first part 50. Optionally, the second part 60 may pivot between 90 degrees to 180 degrees relative the first part 50. Other alternatives and ranges are also conceivable as long as the second part can pivot between the open state and the closed state in order to obtain the function of the example embodiments as described herein.

Moreover, the bucket assembly 3 comprises a ground engaging edge 70 for engaging and penetrating the material 91 . The ground engaging edge can be provided in various shapes depending on the use of the bucket assembly. By way of example, the ground engaging edge 70 may comprise a lip plate (not shown), which is commonly used in various types of bucket units for wheel loaders. In addition, or alternatively, the ground engaging edge 70 may be a laterally curved or arcuate and vertically beveled or tapered. In another design version, the ground engaging edge may comprise a plurality of teeth or tips. In this example, the edge including the teeth or tips is configured to engage and penetrate the material or the work surface. The plurality of teeth or tips should be adapted to engage with the material or the work surface.

In the example embodiment described in relation to figs. 2a-2d, the ground engaging edge 70 is arranged or disposed in the front of the pivotably second part 60. Hereby, the pivotably second part 60 of the assembly is permitted to engage and penetrate the material via the ground engaging edge 70. As illustrated in figs. 2a and 2c, the ground engaging edge 70 is an essentially straight edge extending along the entire width of the second part 60. However, the shape and extension of the edge 70 may vary and may be formed in other ways depending on the use of the bucket assembly. In some type of applications, the ground engaging edge may be referred to as a cutting edge, a material penetration edge or the like. In addition, the ground engaging edge 70 is typically the leading edge of the bucket assembly when the bucket assembly is in its open state and operated by the wheel loader to engage the material. The ground engaging edge is generally shaped and dimensioned to permit the edge to engage and penetrate the material, as further described herein.

In operation, the ground engaging edge 70 is typically positioned parallel to the lower section of the first part, as shown in fig. 2a. However, the ground engaging edge 70 may likewise be positioned slightly inclined relative the lower section of the first part.

As mentioned above, the assembly 3 is configured to assume the closed state in the first fixation position 80, in which the second part 60 is arranged to abut against the first part 59 and to cover the access opening 52, thereby preventing material escaping from the access opening 52. The assembly is further configured to assume the open state in the second fixation position 82. In the second fixation position, when the assembly is in the open state, the second part 60 is pivoted relative the first part 50 so that the ground engaging edge 70 is capable of engaging and penetrating the material upon operation of the assembly 3. This type of configuration of the assembly is e.g. illustrated in figs. 2a and 2c. As illustrated, the second part is pivoted from the first fixation position to the second fixation position to assume the open state. As such, in the open state, the second part is arranged in the second fixation position and the ground engaging edge is positioned in a direction permitting the edge to engage and penetrate the material or the work surface. In other words, the ground engaging edge 70 is adapted to engage and penetrate the material when the assembly is in the open state. As may be realized from fig. 2b, the ground engaging edge 70 is in a rest position when the assembly is in the closed state, i.e. when the second part is in the first fixation position relative the first part.

As mentioned above, the second part 60 is pivoted relative the first part 50 so that the ground engaging edge 70 is capable of engaging and penetrating the material upon operation of the assembly 3. In this context, the assembly can be operated in various ways, e.g. by the driver of the wheel loader. In addition, or alternatively, the assembly can be operated by a control unit of the wheel loader, either by the driver of the wheel loader or in an automated manner if the wheel loader is an automated wheel loader. As such, the provision that the second part 60 is pivoted relative the first part 50 so that the ground engaging edge 70 is capable of engaging and penetrating the material upon operation of the assembly 3 may in some example refers to that the assembly is operated by means of a control unit, a driver of the wheel loader and/or a combination thereof.

Turning again to the second part 60 of the assembly 3, there is depicted an example embodiment in figs. 2a-2d, in which the second part resembles a lid, a cover or the like. In this context, the term lid generally refers to a cover configured to cover another part in order to protect or conceal it. Thus, in some example embodiments, the second part 60 is a lid member extending a substantial part in the length direction L and in the width direction W. In some examples, the lid member may be detachable connected to the first part 50.

Moreover, in this example, the lid member is a tilted member defined by a first inner surface region 62' being tilted relative a second inner surface region 62".

In other example embodiments, e.g. as illustrated in fig. 2e, the lid member can be an essentially flat lid member extending in the length direction L and in the width direction W. Besides this difference relating to the shape of the parts, the example described in relation to fig. 2e may include any other aspect, feature, and function as mentioned in relation to the example embodiment described in relation to figs. 1 and 2a-2d. Further, it should be noted that this example embodiment may include any other aspect, feature and function as mentioned in relation to the example embodiments described in relation to the other figures, at least as long as there is no apparent contradiction between the components and examples..

The second part 60 may also comprise additional supporting members. In the example embodiment illustrated in figs. 2a-2d, the second part 60 has spaced apart side sections 68, 69 for supporting and directing the material to the receptacle of the first part 50. Each side section projects upwardly from the inner surface 62 of the second part 60 and extends at least a substantial length between the ground engaging edge 70 and an opposite arranged outer edge 72 of the second part 60, see e.g. fig. 2a. The spaced apart side sections 68, 69 are in this example coupled to the inner surface of the second part. Further, each of the spaced apart side sections 68, 69 is disposed at the first and second ends 74, 75 of the inner surface of the second part, see e.g. fig. 2c. The spaced apart side sections 68, 69 are adapted to be positioned inside the first part when the bucket assembly 3 is in the closed state, which is illustrated in e.g. figs. 2b and 2d. Thus, in this example, the first part is adapted to accommodate the spaced apart side sections 68, 69 when the assembly is in the closed state. By way of example, the width of the first part 50, as measured between the inner surface of the side walls 55 and 56 of the first part, is wider than the maximum width between the spaced apart side sections 68, 69 of the second part.

As may be readily appreciated from the above, the outer surface edges 76 and 77 of the second part 60 will typically abut against the outer surface edges 43 and 44 of the first part, see e.g. figs. 2a and 2b, when the bucket assembly is in the closed state, while the spaced apart side sections 68, 69 is positioned inside the first part 50 and in-between the side walls 55 and 56 of the first part.

In other example embodiments (although not shown), the spaced apart side sections 68, 69 may be adapted to be positioned outside the first part when the assembly is in the closed state.

Turning again to the spaced apart side sections 68, 69, the shapes of the side sections may vary depending on the use and design of the bucket assembly. In some example embodiments, as illustrated in e.g. figs. 2a-2d, each one of the spaced apart side sections comprises a first inclined upper edge 68', 69' defined at a first angle a with respect to the inner surface 62 ' of the second part and a second inclined upper edge 68", 69" distal to the first inclined upper edge, and defined at a second angle β with respect to the inner surface.

Each side section projects upwardly from the inner surface 62 of the second part 60 at least a substantial height Z, as defined by the distance between the inner surface 62 and the upper edge of the first inclined upper edge 68', 69' and second inclined upper edge 68", 69", respectively, see e.g. fig. 2c

As will be readily understood from the description and with particular reference to figs 1 , 2a-2d, one example advantage of the example embodiments of the present invention is to improve the functionality of a bucket for a working machine. In particular, the example embodiments provides a bucket assembly capable of both digging material from a pile at a work site as well as providing an enclosed container space for storing and transporting the material in a safe and efficient manner. In other words, the example embodiments provide a multi-functional bucket assembly for a working machine, allowing the working machine to perform the operational steps in the work cycles in a more efficient manner. That is, the closable bucket assembly is both configured to be used as a conventional bucket for digging material when it is in the open state, i.e. a digging state, and as a closed container for storing and transporting material between various locations when it is in the closed state, i.e. a closed container state.

In figs. 3a-3b, there is depicted another example embodiment of a bucket assembly according to the present invention. This example embodiment is similar to the example embodiment described in relation to figs. 2a-2d apart from that the second part 60 is pivotably connected relative the first part at a top region 46 of the first part 50 and that the ground engaging edge 70' is arranged in the front of the first part 50, thereby permitting a portion of the first part 50 of the assembly to engage and penetrate the material via the ground engaging edge 70'. As shown in the figs. 3a-3b, the ground engaging edge 70' is arranged in the front of the bottom region 47 of the first part 50.That is, the front of the bottom region typically refers to the leading part of the bottom region of the first part, as shown in the figs 3a-3b. The front part is positioned opposite the rear section of the first part. It is to be further noted that the bottom region 47 is typically, although strictly not necessary, a part of the lower section of the first part 50.

Besides this difference between the example embodiment in fig. 3a-3b and the example embodiment in fig. 2a-2d, the example described in relation to fig. 3a-3b may include any other aspect, feature, and function as mentioned in relation to the example embodiment described in relation to figs. 1 and 2a-2e.

In other words, the example embodiment of the bucket assembly as illustrated in figs. 3a-3b comprises the first part 50, the second part 60 and the ground engaging edge for engaging and penetrating the material. The ground engaging edge 70' is disposed on the first part 50. Moreover, the first part 50 has the material access opening for receiving material and the receptacle for storing the material during transportation. The first part 50 also comprises the attachment point 58 for attachment of the bucket assembly 3 to the working machine 1 .

Further, the second part 60 is pivotably connected to the first part 50 and movable between the first fixation position and the second fixation position. The assembly is configured to assume the closed state in the first fixation position, in which the second part is arranged to abut against the first part and to cover the access opening, thereby preventing material escaping from the access opening. The assembly is also configured to assume the open state in the second fixation position, in which the second part is pivoted relative the first part so that the ground engaging edge is capable of engaging and penetrating the material upon operation of the bucket assembly. As such, the second part is pivoted from the first fixation position to the second fixation position to assume the open state. Hence, in the open state, the second part is arranged in the second fixation position and the ground engaging edge is positioned in a direction permitting the edge to engage and penetrate the material or the work surface. Also, as described in relation to the previous examples, the second part 60 is pivotably connected relative the first part 50 by a pivoting member 90. The pivoting member 90 is configured to permit the second part 60 to pivot relative the first part 50. That is, the pivoting member 90 is configured to permit the second part 60 to pivot about a pivot point so that the second part 60 can pivot relative the first part 50. In addition, the pivoting member 90 is further configured to fixate, i.e. to lock, the second part 60 in the first fixation position 80 and in the second fixation position 82 relative the first part 50. Also in this example, the side sections may extend from the ground engaging edge 70' to the outer edge 72' of the second part 60.

It is to be further noted that the top region 46 is typically, although strictly not necessary, a part of the upper section 59 of the first part 50.

As mentioned in respect of the example in figs. 2a-2e, the pivotably connected second part in the example described in relation to figs. 3a-3b can also move between the first fixation position and the second fixation position. The distance between the first fixation position 80 and the second fixation position 82 may vary depending on the design of the assembly 3. By way of example, as shown in fig. 3a, the second part 60 is configured to pivot at least 90 degrees relative the first part 50. Generally, the second part 60 may pivot between 90 degrees to 150 degrees relative the first part 50. Optionally, the second part 60 may pivot between 90 degrees to 180 degrees relative the first part 50. Other alternatives and ranges are also conceivable as long as the second part can pivot between the open state and the closed state in order to obtain the function of the example embodiments as described herein. In one example, the second part can pivot relative the first part to the first fixation position so that the second part can rest on the upper section of the first part, i.e. on an outer surface of the upper section.

In figs. 4a-4b, there is depicted another example embodiment of a bucket assembly according to the present invention. This example embodiment is similar to the example embodiment described in relation to figs. 2a-2d and 3a-3b apart from that the second part 60 is both pivotably connected relative the first part 50 at the top region 46 of the first part and at the bottom region 47 of the first part. In addition, the second part comprises an upper part 32 and a lower part 34. That is, the second part 60 has the upper part 32 being pivotably connected to the top region 46 of the first part and the lower part 34 being pivotably connected to a lower region 47 of the first part. In addition, the upper part and the lower part are movable relative each other so that the second part is 5 openable and closable by pivoting any one of the upper part and the lower part relative the first part. Besides this difference between the example embodiment in fig. 4a-4b and the example embodiment in fig. 2a-2d and 3a-3b, the example described in relation to fig. 4a-4b may include any other aspect, feature, and function as mentioned in relation to the example embodiment described in relation to e.g. figs. 1 and 2a-2e. In other words, the

10 example embodiment of the bucket assembly as illustrated in figs. 4a-4b comprises the first part 50, the second part 60 and the ground engaging edge 70 for engaging and penetrating the material. The ground engaging edge 70 is disposed on the second part 60. Moreover, the first part 50 has the material access opening for receiving material and the receptacle for storing the material during transportation. The first part 50 also

15 comprises the attachment point 58 for attachment of the bucket assembly 3 to the working machine 1 .

Further, each one of the upper and lower parts 32 and 34 of the second part 60 is pivotably connected to the first part 50 at the top region and the lower region of the first part 50, respectively. Each one of the upper and lower parts 32 and 34 of the second part

20 60 is movable between the first fixation position and the second fixation position, respectively. The assembly is configured to assume the closed state in the first fixation position, in which the upper and lower parts 32 and 34 of the second part are arranged to abut against the first part and to cover the access opening, thereby preventing material escaping from the access opening. The assembly is also configured to assume the open

25 state in the second fixation position, in which each one of the upper and lower parts 32 and 34 of the second part is pivoted relative the first part so that the ground engaging edge is capable of engaging and penetrating the material upon operation of the bucket assembly. As such, the second part is pivoted from the first fixation position to the second fixation position to assume the open state. Hence, in the open state, the second part is

30 arranged in the second fixation position and the ground engaging edge is positioned in a direction permitting the edge to engage and penetrate the material or the work surface. Also, as described in relation to the previous examples, each one of the upper and lower parts 32 and 34 of the second part 60 is pivotably connected relative the first part 50 by a pivoting member 90, respectively. The pivoting member 90 is configured to permit the

35 second part 60 to pivot relative the first part 50. That is, the pivoting member 90 is configured to permit each one of the upper and lower parts 32 and 34 of the second part 60 to pivot about a pivot point so that each one of the upper and lower parts 32 and 34 of the second part 60 can pivot relative the first part 50. In addition, the pivoting member 90 is further configured to fixate, i.e. to lock, the second part 60 in the first fixation position 80 and in the second fixation position 82 relative the first part 50.

It should be readily appreciated that each one of the upper and lower parts 32 and 34 of the second part 60 is typically pivotably connected to the first part by a separate pivoting member. Hence, the assembly 3 here comprises a first pivoting member at the top region and the second pivoting member at the bottom region.

In figs. 5a-5b, there is depicted another example embodiment of a bucket assembly according to the present invention. This example embodiment is similar to the example embodiment described in relation to figs. 4a-4b, while the first part 50 further comprises an openable bottom plate 63 having an openable portion(s) 64 and/or 65 for emptying material from the first part. Typically, the openable bottom plate comprises two separate openable portions 64 and 65, each one being pivotably connected to the first part, as illustrated in fig. 5a. The openable portions are typically pivotably connected in a similar manner as mentioned above with respect to the pivotably second part 60. Besides this difference between the example embodiment in fig. 5a-5b and the example embodiment in fig. 4a-4b, the example described in relation to fig. 5a-5b may include any other aspect, feature, and function as mentioned in relation to the example embodiment described in relation to e.g. figs. 1 and 2a-2e. It should be noted that the example embodiment described in relation to the figs. 5a-5b may be incorporated and installed in any one of the other example embodiments described in conjunction with the figs. figs. 2a-2e, 3a-3b and 4a-4b.

Each of the components of the bucket assembly 3 may be formed of a steel material or another desired material. By way of example, the components of the bucket assembly may be formed by lightweight steel or another suitable lightweight material and/or an alloy. A bucket assembly made of lightweight steel is suitable for an assembly intended for sand gravel. For other types of use of the bucket assembly, such as dirt with a great density, e.g. rocks, the material may be a thicker steel material, e.g. a steel material of 8 mm thickness. Further, the components of the bucket assembly may be formed of a material with a similar thickness. Alternatively, some of the components of the bucket assembly may be formed of material by a first thickness, and other components of the assembly may be formed by a material of another second thickness. In addition, or alternatively, some of the components of the bucket assembly may be formed of a plurality of components. To assemble the bucket assembly 3, each of the components may be welded or otherwise connected together as is known in the art.

However, in one example embodiment (although not shown), the second part is detachable connected to the first part 50. In other words, the second part is pivotably connected to the first part under ordinary use of the bucket assembly, while being adapted to be disassembled from the first part if required in order to undergo maintenance or be replaced with another second part etc. This type of configuration may be implemented in any one of the other example embodiments described herein.

Regarding the dimensions of the bucket assembly, it should be noted that the components are typically configured and dimensioned to ensure the performance of the bucket assembly and to ensure its manufacturability. By way of example, the thickness of the component may be about 8 mm, the height dimension of the bucket assembly may be about 1400 mm, and the length dimension of the bucket assembly may be about 1000mm up to 1500 mm, while the width dimension of the bucket assembly may be about 2400 mm. However, other dimensions may be contemplated depending on type of installation and type of material.

It should also be readily appreciated that the second part may be strengthening in various ways in order to increase the service life of the components making up the bucket assembly. By way of example, the second part can comprise an inner protective layer. In addition, or alternatively, the second part can be made of a strengthening material such as hardened steel or a composite material.

Another example advantage of one example embodiment of the bucket assembly can be described in relation to fig. 6. In this example, the closable bucket assembly is an inter-connectable bucket assembly comprising an inter-connection (not shown) for inter- connecting with another closable bucket assembly. Fig. 6 depicts a system 300 for transporting material on a mobile platform 310 comprising a plurality of inter-connectable bucket assemblies 3 according to any one of the example embodiments described in relation to the figs. 2a-2e, 3a-3b, 4a-4b, 5a-5b or in other example embodiments. The bucket assemblies in the example embodiment in fig. 6 may include any other aspect, feature, and function as mentioned in relation to the example embodiments described in relation to e.g. figs. 1 , 2a-2e, 3a-3b, 4a-4b, and 5a-5b.

As mentioned above, the bucket assembly as described in relation to any one of the example embodiments in figs. 2a-2e, 3a-3b, 4a-4b, 5a-5b and 6 is particularly useful for being operated by a vehicle such as working machine. Thus the invention also relates to a vehicle, such as the working machine 1 , and which comprises the closable bucket assembly 3.

In some example embodiments (although not shown), the bucket assembly may comprise a set of batteries, solar panels or the like for charging one or several electrical machines.

In view of the aforesaid, there is provided a bucket assembly according to various example embodiments, which provides an improved functionality for a working machine. In particular, the example embodiments provides a bucket assembly capable of both digging material from a pile at a work site as well as providing an enclosed container space for storing and transporting the material in a safe and efficient manner. In other words, the example embodiments provide a multi-functional bucket assembly for a working machine, allowing the working machine to perform the operational steps in the work cycles in a more efficient manner. That is, the closable bucket assembly is both configured to be used as a conventional bucket for digging material when it is in the open state, i.e. a digging state, and as a closed container for storing and transporting material between various locations when it is in the closed state, i.e. a closed container state.

It is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and illustrated in the drawings; rather, the skilled person will recognize that many changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the appended claims. For example, although the present invention has mainly been described in relation to a wheel loader, the invention should be understood to be equally applicable for other types of vehicle intended for loading or transporting materials. In addition, the bucket assembly may be used for performing earth moving operations, loading of material and transporting of material, and for unloading material. The bucket assembly may be pivotally attached to a frame of the machine adjacent to a front end and/or a rear end thereof.

Claims

A closable bucket assembly (3) for a working machine (1 ) comprising:

- a first part (50), a second part (60) and a ground engaging edge (70, 70') for engaging and penetrating a material (91 ), said ground engaging edge (70, 70') being disposed on one of the first part and the second part,

- said first part (50) having a material access opening (52) for receiving material and a receptacle (54) for storing said material during transportation, and further an attachment point (58) for attachment of said assembly (3) to said working machine (1 ),

characterized in that

- said second part (60) is pivotably connected to said first part (50) and movable between a first fixation position (80) and a second fixation position (82), wherein the assembly is configured to assume a closed state in said first fixation position (80), in which said second part (60) is arranged to abut against said first part (59) and to cover said access opening (52), thereby preventing material escaping from said material access opening (52), and further configured to assume an open state in said second fixation position (82), in which said second part (60) is pivoted relative said first part (50) so that said ground engaging edge (70, 70') is capable of engaging and penetrating said material upon operation of said assembly (3).

Closable bucket assembly according to claim 1 , characterized in that said second part (60) is pivotably connected relative said first part at a top region (46) of said first part, and wherein said ground engaging edge (70') is disposed in the front of said first part, thereby permitting a portion of said first part of the assembly to engage and penetrate said material via said ground engaging edge (70').

Closable bucket assembly according to claim 1 , characterized in that said second part (60) is pivotably connected relative said first part at a bottom region (47) of said first part, and wherein said ground engaging edge (70) is disposed in the front of said pivotably second part, thereby permitting said pivotably second part of the assembly to engage and penetrate said material via said ground engaging edge (70). Closable bucket assembly according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that said second part having spaced apart side sections (68, 69) for supporting and directing the material to the receptacle of the first part, said side sections projecting upwardly from an inner surface (62) of said second part and extending at least a substantial length between said ground engaging edge and an opposite arranged outer edge (72) of the second part.

Closable bucket assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that said spaced apart side sections (68, 69) are adapted to be positioned inside said first part (50) when the assembly is in said closed state.

Closable bucket assembly according any one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that said assembly further comprises a pivoting member (90, 90') for moving said pivotably second part between said first and second fixation positions and locking the pivotably second part at least in said first and second fixation positions.

Closable bucket assembly according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that said second part is a lid member extending a substantial part in a length direction (L) and in a width direction (W), said lid member is any one of an essentially flat lid member extending in the length direction and in the width direction or a tilted member defined by a first inner surface region being tilted relative a second inner surface region.

Closable bucket assembly according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that said first part (50) essentially resembles a hollow cube having opposite arranged side walls (55, 56) extending between a lower section (57) and an upper section (59), a rear section (51 ) and a front region (53) being at least partly defined by said material access opening (52).

Closable bucket assembly according to claim 1 , characterized in that said second part comprises an upper part being pivotably connected to a top region of said first part and a lower part being pivotably connected to a bottom region of said first part, said upper part and said lower part being movable relative each other so that said second part is openable and closable by pivoting any one of the upper part and the lower part relative the first part.

Closable bucket assembly according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that said first part comprises an openable bottom plate having an openable portion for emptying material from said first part.

Closable bucket assembly according to any one of the preceding claims,

characterized in that said closable bucket assembly is an inter-connectable bucket assembly comprising an inter-connection for inter-connecting with another closable bucket assembly.

A system (300) for transporting material on a mobile platform comprising a plurality of inter-connectable bucket assemblies (3) according to claim 1 1 .

A vehicle (1 ), such as a working machine, comprising a closable bucket assembly (3) according to any one of the claims 1 -1 1 .