Patent ID: 7066514
Filing Date: 2006-06-27
Classification: B65F

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for gripping containers, each having a circumference, for dumping material in a collection vehicle comprising: a base member, a plurality of gripping mechanisms mounted on the base member for movement between a retracted position and an engaging position for engaging a container, the gripping mechanisms being so constructed and arranged that they each can engage a container's outer surface at locations around at least one-half of the circumference of the container, and means for moving the gripping mechanisms between said positions; each of said gripping mechanisms having an inner gripping member and an outer gripping member; wherein the movement of at least one of said outer gripping members is between a substantially vertical stored position and a substantially horizontal gripping position; wherein movement paths for the inner gripping members for the plurality of gripping mechanisms overlap when viewed perpendicularly to a plane of motion for the inner gripping members.