Patent Publication Number: US-7222900-B1

Title: Motion assisted manure fork

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This application is a Continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/412,702 filed Apr. 26, 2006, which is incorporated herein in its entirety. 

   FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   The invention generally relates to an improved manure fork, and more particularly to a motion assisted or motorized manure fork. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION AND BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART 
   It can be appreciated that for a considerable period of time, livestock animals that are normally confined in stalls or pens or use a stall to get out of the weather have been provided with bedding material of natural straw. This bedding is provided to absorb the urine produced while the animal is confined, and to improve the comfort of the animal. Such stalls, whether using straw bedding, shavings or sawdust materials, naturally require frequent removal of the urine soaked material. As a consequence of this confinement there are also considerable manure deposits, which, by the activity of the animal walking around the stall, can become mixed with the bedding and scattered around the stall. This mixture of urine, manure and bedding must be frequently removed and replenished for the health of the animals and to reduce noxious odors. 
   When raising or keeping horses, the bedding may be cleaned several times a day or completely stripped and replenished daily or weekly. Thusly, the cost and storage of bedding materials, the extent to which it is lost when cleaning and the size of composting piles and their disposal are problems faced by all in the field. During the past few decades, in addition to straw, two additional types of bedding have come into fairly regular use. One common type is pine or cedar wood shavings or chips, either in bulk form or compressed and bagged. The other being sawdust or compressed sawdust pellets. Since shavings and sawdust or pellets have come into common usage and that they are smaller or finer in comparison to the long strands of straw, during the removal of bedding some sifting can take place. All the urine soaked bedding will be removed and the undisturbed piles of manure will be discarded whole. However, the movement of horses in their stall results in many manure piles being broken down into smaller component manure balls. The sifting of the bedding to separate the small manure pieces from the voluminous bed of shavings results in considerably less of the bedding material being thrown out with the manure. 
   Manual cleaning of horse stalls or other livestock facilities is typically performed utilizing a manure fork, which consists of a fork head configured with a row of plastic or metal tines. A handle typically made of wood having a circular cross-sectional shape is attached to fork head. 
   In conventional practice of stall cleaning, there is substantial waste because much of the wood shaving bedding material becomes removed and discarded along with the manure, thus necessitating frequent costly replenishment that can amount to many cubic feet of shavings per week per animal, representing a substantial cost and profuse disposal factor. The main approach presently available to control excess shavings disposal is to train, motivate and supervise workers to take the extra time and diligent effort to manually agitate the fork in a vigorous and tiring fashion to promote the separation of manure pieces from the bedding, thus reducing the quantity by salvaging the wood shavings; however such special training and effort is likely to be merely a tradeoff, shifting the cost to labor and supervision, and could result in zero or negative savings overall. The cost of wasted bedding material is particularly high in prestigious operations and expensive boarding sites where, except for their exercise periods, the horses are normally confined in a stall. These stalls must be kept in top condition by frequent cleaning and wood shavings are utilized plentifully for health as well as aesthetic and show purposes. 
   Accordingly, it would be desirable to have a motion assisted manure fork that can save time, fatigue and reduce waste by assisting the user with the separation of the shavings, sawdust, pellets or other bedding from the manure balls. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   In accordance with one embodiment, a motion assisted manure fork comprises: a handle; and a fork head comprising: a frame having a neck dimensioned to receive one end of the handle; a plurality of tines, the plurality of tines having an inner tine section, and an outer tine section on each side of the inner section; a support member extending across the plurality of tines, the support member comprising a plurality of supports positioned between the tines; and wherein the outer tine sections are attached to and extend from the frame, and the inner tine section is not fixedly attached to the frame except by a hinge. 
   In accordance with another embodiment, a motion assisted manure fork comprises: a handle; and a fork head comprising: a frame having a neck dimensioned to receive one end of the handle; and a plurality of tines; and a motor assembly, wherein the motor assembly imparts a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines. 
   In accordance with another embodiment, a manure fork comprises: a handle; and a fork head comprising: frame having a neck dimensioned to receive one end of a handle; a plurality of tines, the plurality of tines having an inner tine section, and an outer tine section on each side of the inner section; a hinge positioned between the inner tine section and each of the outer tine sections; and a support member extending across the plurality of tines, the support member comprising a plurality of supports positioned between the tines, wherein the outer tine sections are attached to and extend from the frame, and the inner tine section is not fixedly attached to the frame except by the hinge; and a motor assembly, wherein the motor assembly imparts a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines. 
   In accordance with a further embodiment, a motion assisted manure fork comprising: a handle; and a fork head comprises: a frame having a neck dimensioned to receive one end of the handle; a plurality of tines, the plurality of tines comprising: a movable inner tine section, the movable inner tine section having a first movable inner tine section, a second movable inner tine section and at least one fixed inner tine between the first movable inner tine section and the second inner tine section; and a fixed outer tine section on each side of the inner section; and a support member extending across the plurality of tines, the support member comprising a plurality of supports positioned between the tines. 
   In accordance with another embodiment, a motion assisted manure fork comprising: a handle; and a fork head comprises: a frame having a neck dimensioned to receive one end of the handle; and a plurality of tines; and a motor assembly, wherein the motor assembly imparts a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines. 
   In accordance with a further embodiment, a manure fork comprises: a handle; and a fork head comprising: frame having a neck dimensioned to receive one end of a handle; a plurality of tines, the plurality of tines comprising: a movable inner tine section, the movable inner tine section having a first movable inner tine section, a second movable inner tine section and at least one fixed inner tine between the first movable inner tine section and the second inner tine section; and a fixed outer tine section on each side of the inner section; a pair of hinges positioned between the first and second movable inner tine sections and the outer tine sections; a pair of hinges positioned between the first and second movable inner tine sections and the at least one fixed inner tine; and a support member extending across the plurality of tines, the support member comprising a plurality of supports positioned between the tines, wherein the outer tine sections are attached to and extend from the frame, and the inner tine section is not fixedly attached to the frame except by the hinge; a motor assembly; and a leverage assembly, wherein the leverage assembly is attached to at least a portion of the movable inner tine section at one end and moveably attached to the handle at a second, wherein the motor assembly imparts a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines via the leverage assembly. 
   In accordance with a further embodiment, a manure fork comprises: a handle; and a fork head comprising: a frame having a neck dimensioned to receive one end of the handle; a plurality of tines; a support member extending across the plurality of tines, the support member comprising a plurality of supports positioned between the tines, wherein the tine sections are attached to and extend from the frame, wherein the neck and the frame are constructed in such a fashion that the frame acts like a hinge assembly; and a leverage assembly, wherein the leverage assembly includes a motor assembly, which imparts a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines through the frame via a motion activation assembly and a connecting rod. 
   In accordance with another embodiment, a manure fork comprises: a handle; and a fork head, the fork head comprising: a frame having a neck dimensioned to receive one end of a handle; a plurality of tines, the plurality of tines comprising: a movable inner tine section, the movable inner tine section having a first movable inner tine section, a second movable inner tine section and at least one fixed inner tine between the first movable inner tine section and the second inner tine section; and a fixed outer tine section on each side of the inner section; a pair of hinges positioned between the first and second movable inner tine sections and the outer tine sections; and a pair of hinges positioned between the first and second movable inner tine sections and the at least one fixed inner tine; and a support member extending across the plurality of tines, the support member comprising a plurality of supports positioned between the tines, wherein the outer tine sections are attached to and extend from the frame, and the inner tine section is not fixedly attached to the frame except by the hinge; a leverage assembly; and a motor assembly within the handle, wherein the motor assembly imparts a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines through the leverage assembly via a motion activation assembly and a connecting rod. 
   In accordance with a further embodiment, a manure fork comprises: a handle; and a fork head, the fork head comprising: a frame having a neck dimensioned to receive one end of the handle; a plurality of tines; a support member extending across the plurality of tines, the support member comprising a plurality of supports positioned between the tines, wherein the tine sections are attached to and extend from the frame, the frame having a neck dimensioned to receive one end of a handle, wherein the neck and frame are constructed in such a fashion that the frame acts like a hinge assembly; a leverage assembly; and a motor assembly within the handle, wherein the motor assembly, which imparts a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines through the leverage assembly via a motion activation assembly and a connecting rod. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The invention will now be described in greater detail with reference to the preferred embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like elements bear like reference numerals, and wherein: 
       FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of a motion assisted manure fork having an external power source. 
       FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of the fork head of the motion assisted manure fork as shown in  FIG. 1 . 
       FIG. 3  shows a cross-sectional view of the handle portion of the motion assisted manure fork with an internal power source. 
       FIG. 4  shows a perspective view of the fork head of a motion assisted manure fork according to a further embodiment. 
       FIG. 5  shows a perspective view of a manure fork with a top mounted motor assembly. 
       FIG. 6  shows a perspective view of a manure fork with a bottom mounted motor assembly. 
       FIG. 7  shows a perspective view of a manure fork in accordance with another embodiment. 
       FIG. 8  shows a perspective view of a motion assisted manure fork in accordance with a further embodiment. 
       FIG. 9  shows a side view of the motion assisted manure fork as shown in  FIG. 8 . 
       FIG. 10  shows a perspective view of a motion assisted manure fork in accordance with another embodiment. 
       FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of the fork head of the motion assisted manure fork as shown in  FIG. 10 . 
       FIG. 12  shows a perspective view of the manure fork with a bottom mounted leverage assembly as shown in  FIG. 10 . 
       FIG. 13  shows a perspective view of a manure fork with a leverage assembly in accordance with another embodiment. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of a motion assisted manure fork  10 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , the motion assisted manure fork  10  includes a handle  20  and a fork head  30 . The handle  20  includes a first end  22  and a second end  24 , which is attachable to the fork head  30 . The first end  22  of the handle  20  preferably includes an external power source  72  and a switch  74 . The power source  72  is preferably detachable and mounted on the end of the handle to facilitate servicing. The switch  74  preferably includes an on/off position  75 , and can include a variable speed control switch  77 . The switch  74  can be a rotary switch, a slide switch a trigger switch or other suitable switch, which controls the on/off function of a motor assembly  70  ( FIG. 3 ), as well as the variable velocity and frequency at which the motor assembly  70  can impart a sinusoidal motion to a plurality of tines  36  in such a manner that the tines  36  can be displaced from their equilibrium or resting position to a periodic or cyclic motion. Furthermore, it can be appreciated that by varying the displacement, velocity, acceleration and/or frequency of the tines  36 , the sinusoidal motion imparted to the tines  36  can include oscillation, vibration, or a pendulum motion. 
   The fork head  30  comprises a neck  31 , which receives the second end  24  of the handle  20 , a frame  32 , and a plurality of tines  36 . The plurality of tines  36  extend from the frame  32  at a first or upper end  41  to a second or lower end  47 , wherein each of the plurality of tines  36  has a tip  46 . The plurality of tines  36  is divided into a movable inner tine section  53  and a fixed outer tine section  51  between which there is a connecting hinge  37 . The plurality of tines  36  typically include at least one support member  34 , extending across the width of the plurality of tines  36 . The hinge  37  location separates the inner tine section  53  into an upper segment  86  and a lower segment  88  ( FIG. 2 ). At least one support member  34  comprises a plurality of supports  35  positioned between the tines  36  to provide strength to the fork head  30  during use. As shown in  FIG. 1 , it can be appreciated that additional support members  34 , can be positioned on the outer tine section  51 . In addition, the frame  32 , and the outer tine section  51  can be curved or angled upward to form a scoop or basket-like fork head  30  to assist with the gathering and sifting of the manure from the shavings, sawdust or other siftable material. 
   As shown in  FIG. 1 , the handle  20  is preferably an elongated hollow tubular or elliptical member  21  having an interior surface  23  and an exterior surface  25  ( FIG. 3 ). The handle  20  is preferably rigid and can be molded from a lightweight fiberglass material, aluminum, or a synthetic plastic or rubber material. It can be appreciated that any suitable material can be used as long as the material provides the handle  20  with sufficient rigidity to lift upwards of 35 lbs. The interior surface  23  of the handle  20  preferably houses an electrical cord or wire  76  connecting the power source  72  to the motor assembly  70  and may also house an integral power source  72 . The handle  20  also preferably includes a control system  74  located on an exterior surface  25  of the handle  20 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 1 , the power source  72  and the control system  74  are preferably positioned near the first end  22  of the handle  20 . It can be appreciated that the power source  72  and control system  74  does not need to be at the same angle as the handle  20 . The positioning of the power source  72  and the control system  74  is not only based on ease of use and the need to the have the controls nearest at least one hand of the user, but also assists with the balancing of the fork  10 . It can be appreciated that the power source  72  and the control system  74  can be separated and positioned at other location along the interior of the handle or on the exterior  25  of the handle  20  at a suitable location, for example, in such case where the handle  20  is constructed of a solid material, such as wood. Alternatively, the power source  72  and/or control system  74  can be attached to the exterior  25  of the handle  20  at a midpoint between the first  22  and second ends  24 . 
   The power source  72  is preferably a rechargeable power source in the form of a rechargeable battery or batteries, or secondary cells, which can be re-charged after they have been drained. This is preferably performed by applying externally supplied electrical current, in the form of a charger or recharger (not shown), which causes the chemical changes that occur in use to be reversed. It can be appreciated that the rechargeable battery can be any suitable rechargeable device, including but not limited to any suitable “dry cell” type battery, including nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), and lithium-ion (Li-Ion) cells. Alternatively, a disposable battery source can be used, such as standard alkaline or lithium battery. It can be appreciated that in any embodiment of the invention, for convenience of battery recharging, a commercially available charger can be made and arranged to conveniently contact and charge the power source  72  in place from the AC power line between usage events in the well manner of well-known recharging cordless tools such as hand drills and power screw drivers. The handle  20  and/or power source  72  will preferably have a connection  73  ( FIG. 3 ) dimensioned to receive an AC power line to recharge the power source  72  as needed. It can also be appreciated that the battery may be removed altogether to be serviced or recharged at a remote charging station. 
   If a standard alkaline type or other replaceable battery is used, in accordance with another embodiment, the first end  22  can include a removable cap  28  ( FIG. 3 ), which can be removed to access the power source  72 . The removable cap can include a set of thread, which match a corresponding thread pattern on the exterior surface  24  of the first end  22  of the handle  20 . It can be appreciated that in an alternative embodiment, the power source  20  can include any suitable power source including but not limited to gasoline or gas powered motor. 
     FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of the fork head of the motion assisted manure fork  10  as shown in  FIG. 1 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the fork head  30  includes a series or plurality of tines  36  which includes an inner tine section  53  and an outer tine section  51 . The angle  49  separates the plurality of tines of the outer section  51  into the upper segment  42  and the lower segment  44 . The outer section  51  of tines  36  on each end of the frame  32  are attached to and extend from the frame  32 . The inner tine section  53  of tines  36  are not fixedly attached to the frame  32 , but are attached to the outer tine section  51  by the hinge  37 . It can be appreciated that between the inner tine section  53  and the outer section of tines  51  as well as the frame  32  of the fork head  30 , a space or slot  38  there between can be present. Alternatively, the space or slot  38  between the frame  32  and the upper segment  86  of the inner tine section  53  of tines  36  can be filled with an elastic material or any other suitable material, wherein upon an imparting of a force to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 , a sinusoidal motion can be imparted to the tines  36  in such a manner that the tines  36  are displaced from their equilibrium and/or a resting position. The hinge  37  can be made of any suitable material, including an elastomeric material, plastic, a steel wire encased in plastic. Alternatively, the hinge  37  can be a bearing, a bushing combination, or other suitable rod combination. 
   The upper or first segment  42  of the outer tine section  51  is connected to the frame  32  of fork head  30  at a first or upper end  41  and to the angle of inclination  49  at a lower end. The lower segment  44  of the outer tine section  51  is connected to the angle of inclination  49  and extends to a second or lower end  47 . At the second or lower end  47 , the tines  36  have a tip  46 . The tip  46  of the tines  36  can be a round tip, a pointed tip, a flat tip, a flattened surface or other end. The fork  30  is preferably made from a plastic material, such as polycarbonate. 
   As shown in  FIG. 2 , the plurality of tines  36  typically include at least one support member  34 , extending across the width of the plurality of tines  36 . The support member  34  comprises a plurality of supports  35  positioned between the tines  36  to provide strength to the fork head  30  during use. In addition, as shown in  FIG. 2 , additional support members  34  can be positioned across the tines  36  of the outer tine section  51  to provide additional support to the fork head  30 . The additional support members  34  preferably positioned along the angle of inclination  49 , however, they can be positioned along any suitable portion of the outer tine section  51 . In addition, the upper and lower  42 ,  44  segments of the outer tine section  51  can include a curved or angled outer tine member  95 , which is curved or angled upward to form a scoop or basket-like fork head  30  to assist with the gathering and sifting of the manure from the shavings, sawdust or other siftable material. 
   The support member  34  typically coincides with a hinge  37  of the fork head  30 . It can be appreciated that the support member  34  does not necessarily coincide with the hinge  37 . It can also be appreciated that where the upper segment  42  and the lower segment  44  of the plurality of tines  36  transitions from a first position, which is in a relatively parallel relationship to the handle  20  to a second position at the angle of inclination  49 , wherein the upper and lower segments  42 ,  44  of the tines  36  are at an angle to one another, there may or may not be a hinge  37  or support member  34  at that point. The plurality of tines  36  preferably have an over length  64  of 10 to 18 inches and more preferably 11 to 15 inches. The angle of inclination  49  separates the plurality of tines into the upper segment  42  having an overall length  60  of between about 2 to 4 inches and the lower segment  44  having an overall length  62  of between about 8 to 16 inches. 
   The motor assembly  70  is preferably located within the interior surface  23  of the handle  20  at or near the second end  24  of the handle  20 . However, it can be appreciated that in an alternative embodiment as shown in  FIGS. 5 ,  6  and  8 , the motor assembly  70  can be mounted on the exterior  25  of the handle  20  either adjacent to the handle  20  or on the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the motion activation assembly  80  of the motor assembly  70  preferably extends beyond the second end  24  of the handle  20  and is attached from the upper tine segment  86  to the second end  22  of the handle  20  by a suitable connection assembly  81  ( FIG. 4 ). The motor assembly  70  is preferably an electric motor having a variable speed system at the motion activation shaft ranging from about 2 Hz to 60 Hz and more preferably a variable speed range of 2 to 30 Hz. 
   It can be appreciated the variable speed function of the motor assembly  70  and the control system  74  can include a defined speed function, such as a single, a dual, tri, quad speed system. For example, the variable speed function can include a 2-Hz setting and a 12-Hz setting. It can be appreciated that depending on the configuration of the motion activation assembly  80 , the connection assembly  81  and the connecting member  83  that up to approximately 10 Hz, the motor assembly  70  will impart a sinusoidal motion, which is of a general oscillating or pendulum motion (i.e., an up and down motion) to the tines  36 . Meanwhile at greater than 10 Hz, the motor assembly  70  imparts a sinusoidal motion, which will impart a vibrating motion, typically with a oscillation movement thereto, wherein the tines  36  appear to move in an up and down and a side to side motion. 
     FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of a manure fork  10 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the motor assembly  70  is preferably located within the neck  31  of the fork head  30  and includes a connection assembly  81 , which is attached or secured to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 . The motion activation assembly  80  preferably includes a roller bearing  84  ( FIGS. 3 and 4 ) located within a slot of the connection assembly  81 , and bridging the gap  38  between the frame  32  and the upper tine segment  86 . The fork as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2 , provides a mechanically driven or motorized manure fork with medium displacement (MD) and a low to medium frequency (LF/MF). In operation or use, the fork  10  is typically best suited for smaller and medium sized compressed and bagged shavings, sawdust and pellets. 
   As shown in  FIG. 2 , the motor assembly  70  is preferably enclosed within the neck  31  of the fork head  32 . However, it can be appreciated that the motor assembly  70  can be enclosed within the second end  24  of the handle  20 . The motor assembly  70  preferably comprises an electric or other suitable motor with a motion activation assembly  80  for imparting a sinusoidal motion to the tines  36  via the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 . The upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53  provides support for the first or upper ends  41  of the inner tine section  53  and also provides a location or point for attachment of the connection assembly  81  to the motion activation assembly  80  of the motor assembly  70 . The connection assembly  81  preferably includes a connection assembly  81  to the motion activation assembly  80 , which imparts the sinusoidal motion from the motor assembly  70  to the fork head  30  and the plurality of tines  36 . 
   The connection assembly  81  is preferably connected to a bearing  84  and cam motion activation assembly  80  mounted to the motor assembly  70 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the connection assembly  81  is attached to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine segment  53 . The upper tine segment  86  forms the first or upper end  41  of the inner tine section  53  of tines  36  near the portion of the fork  10 , wherein the handle  20  connects to the fork head  30 . The upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53  and the frame  32  are preferably separated by a gap, space or slot  38 . The gap, space, or slot  38  is preferably between about a 1/16 of inch to about ⅝ of inch and more preferably about 1/16 to ⅛ of an inch. However, it can be appreciated that the gap, space, or slot  38  can be filled with an elastic material or other suitable material, which can be placed between the frame  32  and the upper tine segment  86 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 2 , the handle  20  is preferably connected to the fork head  30  at a neck  31  on the fork frame  32 . The handle  20  can be connected to the fork frame  32  via the neck  31  by clamping, by bolting, by threading, by rivets, by gluing, by force fit or any other known means. 
   In one embodiment, the motor assembly  70  and the motion activation assembly  80  including the connection assembly  81  and bearing  84  impart a sinusoidal motion to the tines of the fork  36 , which can include a series of periodic cycles having any or a combination of the following: (1) Low displacement (LD) wherein the tips  46  of the tines  36  move less than ½ inch up and down; (2) Medium displacement (MD) wherein the tips  46  of the tines  36  move up and down ½ to 2 inches; and (3) High displacement (HD) wherein the tips  46  of the tines  36  move up and down 2 inches or more. In addition, the frequency of the tips  46  can include variable cycles or frequencies including: (1) Low frequency (LF) wherein the tips  46  are moving up and down at fewer than 10 Hz; (2) Medium frequency (MF) wherein the tips  46  are moving up and down and/or vibrating at 10 Hz to 35 Hz; and (3) High frequency (HF) wherein the tips  46  are actively vibrating and/or wildly shaking at 35 Hz to 60 Hz. The configuration of the fork  10 , fork head  30  and position of the motor assembly  70  imparts the desired displacement and frequency to the tines  36  depending on the use of the fork  10  and the user&#39;s preferences. It can be appreciated that the above-mentioned motion of the tines  36  are only examples of one embodiment, and that based on the sinusoidal motion generation of the motor  70  and motion activation assembly  80 , that varying any of the following variables, displacement, velocity, acceleration, and/or frequency can impart different sinusoidal motions and/or movements into the tines  36  of the fork  10 . It can also be appreciated the varying the shape, size, length, or composition of the tines  36 , can be made to effect their natural resonant frequency. It can be appreciated that vibrations of varying frequencies are also being applied to the outer portions, frame  32  and support members of the fork  30 . 
     FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of the handle end of the motion assisted manure fork  10  with the power source  72  located within the handle  20 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the handle  20  is preferably an elongated hollow tubular or elliptical member  21  having an interior surface  23  and an exterior surface  25 . The handle  20  is preferably rigid and can be molded from a lightweight fiberglass material, aluminum, or a synthetic plastic or rubber material. The neck  31  of the fork head  30  houses the motor assembly  70 . The handle  20  houses an electrical cord or wire  76  connecting the power source  72  to the motor assembly  70  and may also house an integral power source  72 . The handle  20  also preferably includes a control system  74  located on an exterior surface  25  of the handle  20 . The control system  74  can include an on/off switch  75  and an optional speed control mechanism  77  in the form of a rotary dial, a slide switch, a trigger type device or other suitable mechanism to provide the fork  10  with a variable speed system. It can be appreciated that the on/off switch  75  and the variable speed control mechanism  77  can be combined into a single unit in the form of a slide switch, trigger, rotary type device or other suitable design. 
     FIG. 4  shows a perspective view of a fork head  30  in accordance with another embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 4 , the fork head  30  includes a series or plurality of tines  36 , the upper or first segment  42  of the outer tine section  51  is connected to the frame  32  of fork head  30  at a first or upper end  41  and to the angle of inclination  49  at a second or lower end  43 . The lower segment  44  of the outer tine section  51  is connected to the angle of inclination  49  and extends to a second or lower end  47 . At the second or lower end  47 , the tines  36  have a terminus or tip  46 . The terminus or tip  46  of the tines  36  can be a round tip, a pointed tip, a flat tip, a flattened surface or other end. 
   The distance  66  of the upper or first segment  86  from the frame  32  to the hinge line  39  relative to the distance  68  of lower or second segment  88  from the hinge line  39  to the tip  46  of the tines  36  will typically have a ratio of between about 1 to 5 and 5 to 5. For example, the distance  66  from the frame  32  to the hinge  37  will preferably be between about 1 to 6 inches and more preferably between 2 and 4 inches with the distance  68  from the hinge  37  to the tip  46  of the tines  36  between 6 and 12 inches and more preferably between about 7 and 10 inches. The tines  36  will preferably have an overall length  64  of about 10 to 18 inches and more preferably an overall length  64  of about 11 to 15 inches. The tines  36  will preferably number between 6 and 30 and having a width of about 4 to 24 inches, and more preferably having approximately 16 to 20 tines and having a width of 12 to 18 inches, and most preferably comprising 18 tines with a width of 15 inches. 
   The upper or first segment  42  is typically substantially parallel to the handle  20  and the lower or second segment  44  forms an angle of inclination  49  with the upper or first segment  42  ( FIG. 9 ). This angle of inclination  49  can be between about 30 degrees and 60 degrees and more preferably the angle of inclination  49  is between about 35 degrees and 45 degrees. It can be appreciated that the hinge  37  can be moved either forward (i.e., closer to the tip  46 ) or backward (i.e., towards the frame  32 ) without moving the support member  34  between the upper and lower segments  86 ,  88  or angle of inclination  49 . In this embodiment as shown in  FIG. 4 , wherein the support member  34  and the angle of inclination  49  do not coincide with one another, it can be appreciated that the fork head  30  can show improved sifting ability since the low point of the fork head  30  during use is typically at the intersection of the angle of inclination. It is to be appreciated that the hinge  37  can be at any point between the inner tine section  53  and the outer tine section  51  and may not necessarily coincide with the support member  34  or the low angle of inclination  49 . The hinge  37  is generally located in a position to optimize the motion between the upper segment  86  and the lower segment  88  of the inner tine section  53  to enhance the sifting ability of the fork head  30 . 
   The tines  36  are preferably spaced apart at a distance  69  of between 0.125 to 1.25 inches, and more preferably between 0.25 to 0.75 inches. The optimal distance  69  is preferably selected based on the size, shape and consistency of the bedding being cleaned. In addition, the length of the plurality of tines  36  in the upper segment  86  to the plurality of tines  36  in the lower segment  88  of the inner tine section  53  can vary, the upper segment  86  having a length of 0 to 6.0 inches and a lower segment  88  having a length of 14.0 to 6.0 inches in length, which are preferably at a ratio from 1 to 5 to 5 to 5, wherein the upper segment  86  and the lower segment  88  are separated by the hinge  37 . In addition, the length of the plurality of tines  36  in the outer tine section  51  in the upper segment  42  to the plurality of tines  36  in the lower segment  44  can be at a ratio of 1 to 5 to 5 to 5, wherein the upper segment  42  and the lower segment  44  are separated by the angle of inclination  49 . In addition, it can be appreciated that the distance  69  between the plurality of tines  36  can differ between the upper and lower segments  42 ,  44  of the outer tine section  51 , the upper or lower segments  86 ,  88  of the inner tine section  53 . For example, in one embodiment, the distance  69  between the tines  36  of the upper segment  86  can be between about 0.125 and 1.25 of an inch, with the distance  69  between the tines  36  of the lower segment  88  are between 0.125 and 1.25 inches. 
     FIG. 5  shows a perspective view of the motion assisted manure fork  10  having a top mounted motor assembly  70  connected directly to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 . The motor assembly  70  is attached to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53  at one end and includes a connection assembly  81 , which attaches the motion activation assembly  80  of the motor assembly  70  to the handle  20  or neck  31  of the fork head  30 . The motion activation assembly  80  includes a flexible or rigid connecting member  83 , for attaching the handle  20  to the motion activation assembly  80 . The connecting member  83  is preferably a strap. However, it can be appreciated that the connecting member  83  can be a clamp, a flexible band, a connecting rod or other suitable connector. 
   In operation, the fork  10  as shown in  FIG. 5  having a top mounted motor assembly  70 , which is fixedly attached to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53  and a flexible or movable connection to the frame  32  or handle  20  can provide an inertia related drive for high displacement (HD) using a pendulum weight effect with the motor assembly  70 . In addition, the fork  10  provides a motor driven or mechanically driven system for sustaining a sinusoidal motion from the motor assembly  70  through the connecting member  83 , which provides for low displacement (LD) while operating at low to high frequencies (LF to HF). Typically, the top mounted motor assembly  70  is best suited for very large shavings with a structure (i.e., a mixture of manure and shavings) that is difficult to separate. However, it can be appreciated that a top mounted motor assembly  70  can be used with smaller compressed and bagged shavings, sawdust, or pellets. 
     FIG. 6  shows a perspective view of a manure fork with a bottom mounted motor assembly  70 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the bottom mounted motor assembly  70  is attached to the neck  31  of the frame  32  and/or the second end  24  of the handle  20  of the fork  10 . The motor assembly  70  preferably includes a connection assembly  81 , which is attached to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 . The connection assembly  81  also includes either a rigid or flexible connecting member  83 . The connecting member  83  is preferably a strap. However, it can be appreciated that the connecting member  83  can be a clamp, a flexible band, a connecting rod or other suitable connector. In operation or use, the bottom mounted motor assembly  70  combines a mechanically driven or motor assisted fork  10  with low displacement and low to high frequencies. The bottom mounted motor assembly  70  is typically best suited for pellets, sawdust, or smaller compressed and bagged shavings. 
     FIG. 7  shows a perspective view of a manure fork  10 . As shown in  FIG. 7 , the motor assembly  70  is preferably a top or bottom mounted and imparts a sinusoidal or vibrating motion to the fork head  30 . In this embodiment, the motor assembly  70  does not include a connection assembly  81 , which is attached or secured to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 . Instead, the motor assembly  70  and the motor activation assembly  80  includes a cam or other suitable device, which imparts a motion to the fork head  30 , which causes the plurality of tines  36  to vibrate. The fork  10  as shown in  FIG. 7 , provides a mechanically driven or motorized manure fork with medium displacement (MD) and a low to medium frequency (LF/MF). In operation or use, the fork  10  is typically best suited for smaller and medium sized compressed and bagged shavings, sawdust and pellets. 
   It can be appreciated that the forks  10  as shown in  FIGS. 5–7  can be modified to provide from low to high displacement and low to high frequency depending on the position of the motor assembly  70  and the motion activation assembly  80  including a variety of connection assemblies  81  and/or connecting members  83 , including clamps, straps, flexible bands, a connecting rod, bearings  84 , or other suitable connectors. It can be appreciated that in another embodiment, the gap  38  between the frame  32  and the motion activation assembly  80  can be filled and/or eliminated and a motor assembly  70  can be attached to the handle  20 , neck  31  and/or frame  32  of the fork head  30  with a suitable rotating cam and/or member, wherein the motor assembly  70  imparts a vibrating or shaking sensation to the tines  36  support members  34  and the frame  32  of the fork head  30 . 
     FIG. 8  shows a perspective view of a motion assisted manure fork in accordance with another embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 8 , the fork  10  includes the motion assisted manure fork  10  comprises a handle  20  and a fork head  30  with a motion assisted weight system  130 . As shown, the fork head  30  comprises a neck  31 , which receives the second end  24  of the handle  20 , a frame  32 , and a plurality of tines  36 . The upper or first segment  42  of the outer tine section  51  is connected to the frame  32  of fork head  30  at a first or upper end  41  and to the angle of inclination  49  at a second or lower end  43 . The lower segment  44  of the outer tine section  51  is connected to the angle of inclination  49  and at a second or lower end  47 , the tines  36  have a tip  46 . The tip  46  of the tines  36  can be a round tip, a pointed tip, a flat tip, a flattened surface or other end. The fork  30  is preferably made from a plastic material, such as polycarbonate. The fork  10  also includes a motion-assisted weight system  130 , which comprises a support member  102  attached to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 . 
   The support member  102  preferably includes an angular support  104 . The angular support  104  includes a proximal or first end  106  attached to the support member  102  and a distal or second end  108  with a movable weighted member  132  attached to the distal end  108  of the angular support  104 . The movable weighted member  132  comprises a weight  134  having an opening  136 , which is configured to be movable along the distal end  108  of the angular support  104 . The movable weighted member  132  also includes a screw or other device  138  to secure the weighted member  132  to the angular member  104 . The angular support  104  can also include an optional elastic member  120 , in the form of a spring  122  or other suitable material to dampen the pendulum motion of the weighted assembly. In addition, the handle  20  can also include a stop  124 , preferably of elastic or shock absorbing material, which controls the motion and/or movement of the movable weighted member  132  during use. In use, the fork  10  as shown in  FIG. 8 , is a human driven fork, wherein the force is provided by the user to impart motion to the movable weighted member  132 . The movable weighted member  132  imparts a pendulum like motion to the tines  36 , wherein the tines  36  will move upward and downward, rotating around the hinge  37 , from the torque imparted to the upper tine member  86  from the movable weighted member  132 . The force imparted to the upper tine member  86  by the weighted member  132  produces a twisting motion to the flexible hinge  37 . The hinge  37  acts like a spring and rebounds at the end of its travel providing inertia for the continued movement of the plurality of tines  36  in an upward and downward motion. 
     FIG. 9  shows a side view of the motion assisted manure fork  10  as shown in  FIG. 8 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , the upper or first segment  42  is substantially parallel to the handle  20  and the lower or second segment  44  forms a connecting angle  49  with the upper or first segment  42 . This angle of inclination  49  can be between about 30 degrees and 60 degrees and more preferably the angle of inclination  49  is between about 45 degrees and 60 degrees. In addition, the frame  32 , the upper or first segment  42  of the outer tine section  51  and the lower segment  44  of the outer tine section  51  can be curved or angled upward to form a scoop or basket-like fork head  30  to assist with the gathering and sifting of the manure from the shavings, sawdust or other siftable material. 
   As shown in  FIG. 9 , the fork head  30 , wherein the upper or first segment  42  is typically substantially parallel to the handle  20  and the lower or second segment  44  forms an angle of inclination  49  with the upper or first segment  42 . It can be appreciated that the upper or first segment  42  does not have to be substantially parallel to the handle  20  and that the handle&#39;s  20  angle of inclination  79  can be at a first angle  61  to the handle  20 . In addition, the lower segment  44  of tines  36  is at a second angle  63  to the handle  20 . The difference between the first and second angles  61 ,  63 , (i.e., the angles of inclination  79 ,  49 ) can be between about 30 degrees and 60 degrees and more preferably is between about 45 degrees and 60 degrees. 
   It can be appreciated that the use of sinusoidal motion in the descriptions is not limiting and that the use of sinusoidal motion can also include oscillation, vibration, and/or pendulum movement, since by varying the displacement, velocity, acceleration or frequency there is an infinite variety of possible periodic cycles to move the tines  36 , and that the different types of motor/inertia/pendulum/human combinations can produce individual cycles for specific types of structures. In addition, it can be appreciated that the embodiments as disclosed herein, is not limited to manure forks and can also be implemented on any suitable device for shifting and/or separating items from one another. For example the embodiments could be used to separate fine humus from debris in a garden, could be used in beach combing to separate sand from valuables and could even be used in archeology to separate fragments from soil. It can also be appreciated that the tine locations could be spaced in varying placements for specific purposes even to the point that the desirable material stayed on the top of the fork, while the undesirable material sifted through. 
     FIG. 10  shows a perspective view of a motion assisted manure fork  10  in accordance with another embodiment having a bottom mounted leverage assembly  150  ( FIG. 12 ). As shown in  FIG. 10 , the motion assisted manure fork  10  includes a handle  20  and a fork head  30 . The handle  20  includes a first end  22  and a second end  24 , which is attachable to the fork head  30 . The first end  22  of the handle  20  preferably includes an internal power source  72  and a variable speed control system  74 . The control system  74  can be a rotary switch, a slide switch, a trigger switch or other suitable switch, which controls the on/off function of a bottom mounted leverage assembly  150 , as well as the variable velocity and frequency at which the leverage assembly  150  can impart a sinusoidal motion to a plurality of tines  36  in such a manner that the tines  36  can be displaced from their equilibrium or resting position to a periodic or cyclic motion. It can be appreciated that the control system  74  can be top mounted with a thumb controlled switch or bottom mounted with a finger controlled switch. Furthermore, it can be appreciated that by varying the displacement, velocity, acceleration and/or frequency of the tines  36 , the sinusoidal motion imparted to the tines  36  can include oscillation, vibration, or a pendulum motion. 
   The fork head  30  comprises a neck  31 , which receives the second end  24  of the handle  20 , a frame  32 , and a plurality of tines  36 . The plurality of tines  36  extend from the frame  32  at a first or upper end  41  to a second or lower end  47 , wherein each of the plurality of tines  36  has a tip  46 . The plurality of tines  36  is divided into a movable inner tine section  53 , which is comprised of a first inner movable tine section  152  and a second inner tine section  154  with a fixed inner tine section  156  between the first and second inner movable tine sections  152 ,  154 . The fixed inner tine section  156  includes at least one tine  36 , which is fixedly attached to the frame of the fork head  30 . The fork head  30  also includes a fixed outer tine section  51  on each side of the movable inner tine section  53 . The plurality of tines  36  typically includes at least one support member  34 , extending across the width of the plurality of tines  36 . A plurality of hinges  37  separates the first and second inner tine sections  152 ,  154  from the fixed inner tine section  156  and the fixed outer tine sections  51 . The leverage assembly  150  also includes a fixed connection assembly  158 , which is attached to the inner tine section  53 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 10 , the handle  20  is preferably an elongated hollow tubular or elliptical member. The handle  20  is preferably rigid and can be molded from a lightweight fiberglass material, aluminum, or a synthetic plastic or rubber material. It can be appreciated that any suitable material can be used as long as the material provides the handle  20  with sufficient rigidity to lift upwards of 50 lbs. It can be appreciated that the use of a fixed inner tine section  156  provides added rigidity to the fork head  30 . 
   The power source  72  is preferably a rechargeable power source in the form of a rechargeable battery or batteries, or secondary cells, which can be re-charged after they have been drained. This is preferably performed by applying externally supplied electrical current, in the form of a charger or recharger (not shown), which causes the chemical changes that occur in use to be reversed. It can be appreciated that the rechargeable battery can be any suitable rechargeable device, including but not limited to any suitable “dry cell” type battery, including nickel-cadmium (NiCd), nickel metal hydride (NiMH), and lithium-ion (Li-Ion) cells. Alternatively, a disposable battery source can be used, such as standard alkaline or lithium battery. It can be appreciated that in any embodiment of the invention, for convenience of battery recharging, a commercially available charger can be made and arranged to conveniently contact and charge the power source  72  in place from the AC power line between usage events in the well manner of well-known recharging cordless tools such as hand drills and power screw drivers. The handle  20  and/or power source  72  will preferably have a connection  73  ( FIG. 3 ) dimensioned to receive an AC power line to recharge the power source  72  as needed. It can also be appreciated that the battery may be removed altogether to be serviced or recharged at a remote charging station. 
   If a standard alkaline type or other replaceable battery is used, in accordance with another embodiment, the first end  22  can include a removable cap  28 , which can be removed to access the power source  72 . The removable cap can include a set of thread, which match a corresponding thread pattern on the exterior surface of the first end  22  of the handle  20 . It can be appreciated that in an alternative embodiment, the power source  20  can include any suitable power source including but not limited to gasoline or gas powered motor. 
     FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of the fork head  30  of the motion assisted manure fork  10  as shown in  FIG. 10 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , the fork head  30  includes a series or plurality of tines  36  which includes a movable inner tine section  53  and a fixed outer tine section  51 . The movable inner tine section  53  is comprised of the first inner movable tine section  152  and the second inner tine section  154  with the fixed inner tine section  156  between the first and second inner movable tine sections  152 ,  154 . The fork head  30  also includes a fixed outer tine section  51  on each side of the movable inner tine section  53 . The outer section  51  of tines  36  on each end of the frame  32  is attached to and extends from the frame  32 . The inner tine section  53  of tines  36  is not fixedly attached to the frame  32 , but is attached to the outer tine section  51  by the hinge  37 . It can be appreciated that between the inner tine section  53  and the outer section of tines  51  as well as the frame  32  of the fork head  30 , a space or slot  38  there between can be present. Alternatively, the space or slot  38  between the frame  32  and the upper segment  86  of the inner tine section  53  of tines  36  can be filled with an elastic material or any other suitable material, wherein upon an imparting of a force to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 , a sinusoidal motion can be imparted to the tines  36  in such a manner that the tines  36  are displaced from their equilibrium and/or a resting position. The hinge  37  can be made of any suitable material, including an elastomeric material, plastic, a steel wire encased in plastic. Alternatively, the hinge  37  can be a bearing, a bushing combination, or other suitable rod combination. 
   As shown in  FIG. 11 , the plurality of tines  36  typically include at least one support member  34 , extending across the width of the plurality of tines  36 . The support member  34  comprises a plurality of supports  35  positioned between the tines  36  to provide strength to the fork head  30  during use. The support member  34  typically coincides with a hinge  37  of the fork head  30 . It can be appreciated that the support member  34  does not necessarily coincide with the hinge  37 . The plurality of tines  36  preferably have an over length  64  of 10 to 18 inches and more preferably 11 to 15 inches. 
     FIG. 12  shows a perspective view of the manure fork  10  with a bottom mounted leverage assembly  150  as shown in  FIG. 10 . However, it can be appreciated that the leverage assembly  150  can be mounted on an upper or top surface of the handle  20  or on either side of the handle  20  without departing from the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 12 , the bottom mounted leverage assembly  150  is attachable on an underside or bottom of the handle  20  in the vicinity of the second end  24  of the handle  20  of the fork  10 . The leverage assembly  150  is an elongated member  151  having a first end  153  and second end  155 . The first end  153  of the elongated member  151  preferably includes a fixed connection assembly  158 , which is attached to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 . The second end  155  of the elongated member  151  preferably includes a connection assembly  160 , which is attachable in the vicinity of the second end  24  of the handle  20 . The connection assembly  160  includes a motion activation assembly  162  attached to the motor assembly  70  at one end and to a connecting rod  164  or other suitable device or member at the other end. In use, the motion activation assembly  162  and the connecting rod  164  impart a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines  36  via the leverage assembly  150 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 12 , the fixed connection assembly  158  is attached to the movable inner tines  53  with a suitable connector  159 . The connector  159  preferably extends across the fixed inner tine  156  to impart an oscillating motion into the movable inner tines  53 . The motor assembly  70  can be housed or contained within the leverage assembly  150 , housed or contained within the handle  20 , or housed or located in any suitable position. In operation or use, the bottom mounted leverage assembly  150  combines a mechanically driven or motor assisted fork  10  with variable displacement and variable frequencies. The bottom mounted leverage assembly  150  is typically best suited for pellets, sawdust, or smaller compressed and bagged shavings. However, it can be appreciated that by varying the displacement and frequency with the variable control switch  74 , the bottom mount leverage assembly  150  can be used with other types of bedding. 
   The motor assembly  70  preferably includes an electric motor having a variable speed system at the motion activation shaft ranging from about 2 Hz to 60 Hz and more preferably a variable speed range of 2 to 30 Hz. The output shaft preferably operates at approximately 400 to 1200 RPM and more preferably at approximately 900 RPM with an overdrive or top end speed of approximately 1200 RPM to separate bedding, which corresponds to approximately 15 to 20 strokes per second. In addition, it can be appreciated that with an operation speed of between approximately 400 to 1200 RPM, the tips of the tines  36  will have a movement of approximately 1.5 inches. It can be appreciated the variable speed function of the leverage assembly  150  and the control system  74  can include a defined speed function, such as a single, a dual, tri, quad speed system. For example, the variable speed function can include a 2-Hz setting and a 12-Hz setting. It can be appreciated that depending on the configuration of the motion activation assembly  160 , the connection assembly  158  and the connecting member  159  that up to approximately 10 Hz, the leverage assembly  150  will impart a sinusoidal motion, which is of a general oscillating or pendulum motion (i.e., an up and down motion) to the tines  36 . Meanwhile at greater than 10 Hz, the leverage assembly  150  imparts a sinusoidal motion, which will impart a vibrating motion, typically with a oscillation movement thereto, wherein the tines  36  appear to move in an up and down and a side to side motion. 
     FIG. 13  shows a perspective view of a manure fork  10  with a leverage assembly  150  in accordance with another embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 13 , the motion assisted manure fork  10  includes a handle  20  and a fork head  30 . The first end  22  (not shown) of the handle  20  preferably includes an internal power source  72  (not shown) and a variable speed control system  74  (not shown). The control system  74  can be a rotary switch, a slide switch, a trigger switch or other suitable switch, which controls the on/off function of the leverage assembly  150 , as well as the variable velocity and frequency at which the leverage assembly  150  can impart a sinusoidal motion to a plurality of tines  36  in such a manner that the tines  36  can be displaced from their equilibrium or resting position to a periodic or cyclic motion. 
   The fork head  30  comprises a neck  31 , which receives the second end  24  of the handle  20 , a frame  32 , and a plurality of tines  36 . The plurality of tines  36  extend from the frame  32  at a first or upper end  41  to a second or lower end  47 , wherein each of the plurality of tines  36  has a tip  46 . In contrast to the embodiments as shown in  FIGS. 1 ,  2 ,  4 ,  6 ,  8 , and  10 – 12 , the plurality of tines  36  are fixed or attached to the frame  32  of the fork head  30  and do not include a gap or space  38  as shown in those  FIGS. 1 ,  2 ,  4 ,  6 ,  8 , and  10 – 12 . In addition, the leverage assembly  150  also includes a fixed connection assembly  158 , which is attached to the upper tine segment  86  of an inner tine section  53 . In this embodiment, the frame  32  of the fork head  30  is engineered and configured to act as a hinge  37 , as the leverage assembly  150  imparts a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines  36 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 13 , the bottom mounted leverage assembly  150  is attachable in the vicinity of the second end  24  of the handle  20  of the fork  10 . The leverage assembly  150  preferably includes a fixed connection assembly  158 , which is preferably attached to the upper tine segment  86  of the inner tine section  53 , and a connection assembly  160 , which is attachable in the vicinity of the second end  24  of the handle  20 . It can be appreciated that the fixed connection assembly  158  can be attached to the plurality of tines  36 , a portion of the frame  32  of the fork head  30  or other suitable portion of the fork head  30 , wherein the leverage assembly  150  can impart a sinusoidal or other suitable motion to the plurality of tines  36 . The connection assembly  160  preferably includes a motion activation assembly  162  and a connecting rod  164 . The motion activation assembly  162  is connected at one end to a motor assembly  70 , and at the other end to a connecting rod  164  or other suitable connection device or member. In use, the motion activation assembly  162  and the connecting rod  164  imparts a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines  36  via the leverage assembly  150 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 13 , the fixed connection assembly  158  is preferably attached to the plurality of tines  36  with a suitable connector  159 . The connector  159  preferably extends across a portion of the plurality of tines  36  flexing the frame  32  to impart an oscillating motion into the tines  36 . The motor assembly  70  can be housed or contained within the leverage assembly  150 , housed or contained within the handle  20 , or housed or located in any suitable position. In operation or use, the bottom mounted leverage assembly  150  combines a mechanically driven or motor assisted fork  10  with variable displacement and variable frequencies. The bottom mounted leverage assembly  150  is typically best suited for pellets, sawdust, or smaller compressed and bagged shavings. However, it can be appreciated that by varying the displacement and frequencies with the variable control switch  74 , the bottom mount leverage assembly  150  can be used with other types of bedding. 
   In addition, it can be appreciated that the inner tine section  53  and the frame  32  in combination with one another can be engineered and configured to act as a hinge  37  or plurality of hinges  37 , and in combination with the leverage assembly  150  imparts a sinusoidal motion to the plurality of tines  36 . 
   While the invention has been described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments thereof, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made and equivalents employed, without departing from the present invention.