Patent ID: 6213706
Filing Date: 2001-04-10
Classification: B65F

Abstract:
A dual function apparatus for acquiring and transferring material to a receiving hopper of a collection vehicle, the apparatus comprising:a) an articulated mechanized arm connected to a collection vehicle, operable between stowed, extended, lifting and dumping positions and having a free end;b) a container grabbing mechanism comprising a pair of opposed arms connected to said free end of said mechanized arm and aligned in spaced relation operable for accessing, grasping and releasing a container of interest and a fluid-operated arm actuating system connected to said pair of arms for opening and closing said opposed arms; and(c) a pair of opposed mechanized scoops carried by and pivotally connected to said free end of said mechanized arms and disposed to converge and diverge beneath a soft-sided container of interest and provide support in a plane generally parallel to that described by said opposed arms of said grabbing mechanism and a fluid-operated scoop actuating system connected between said free end of said mechanized arm and said opposed mechanized scoops for opening and closing said scoops.