RETURN ASSIST SYSTEM FOR REFUSE VEHICLE

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates generally to vehicles. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a refuse vehicle. Refuse vehicles collect a wide variety of waste, trash, and other material from residences and businesses. Operators of the refuse vehicles transport the material from various waste receptacles within a municipality to a storage or processing facility (e.g., a landfill, an incineration facility, a recycling facility, etc.).

SUMMARY

One embodiment relates to a refuse vehicle including a chassis, a body coupled to the chassis, a cab coupled to the chassis and positioned in front of the body, and a lift assembly coupled to at least one of the chassis or the body. The lift assembly includes a positioning member, an interface member coupled to a distal end of the positioning member and configured to engage with a refuse container, an actuator coupled to the positioning member to facilitate repositioning of the interface member and a position sensor configured to measure a position of the interface member. The refuse vehicle also includes a return assist system configured to receive a user input to engage the interface member with the refuse container, determine an original position of the refuse container based on the position of the interface member when the user input is received, reposition, using the actuator, the interface member to empty the refuse container into the body, and return the refuse container to the original position.

Another embodiment relates a control system for a refuse vehicle. The control system includes processing circuitry configured to obtain, from a first position sensor, data representing a first component of a position of an interface member of the lift apparatus. The processing circuitry is further configured to obtain an indication of engagement of the interface member of the lift apparatus of the refuse vehicle and determine an engagement position of the interface member based on the first component of the position of the interface member when the indication is received. The processing circuitry is further configured to operate the lift apparatus to perform a dumping operation and return the lift apparatus to the engagement position.

Another embodiment relates to a method for controlling a refuse vehicle. The method includes the steps of obtaining first data representing a first component of a position of an interface member of the lift apparatus of the refuse vehicle and obtaining an indication of engagement of the interface member. The method further includes determining an engagement position of the interface member based on the first component of the position of the interface member when the indication is received, controlling the lift apparatus to perform a dumping operation, and returning the lift apparatus to the engagement position.

This summary is illustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Other aspects, inventive features, and advantages of the devices or processes described herein will become apparent in the detailed description set forth herein, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a left side view of a vehicle, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a chassis of the vehicle of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 configured as a front-loading refuse vehicle, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a left side view of the front-loading refuse vehicle of FIG. 3 configured with a tag axle.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 configured as a side-loading refuse vehicle, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a right side view of the side-loading refuse vehicle of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is a top view of the side-loading refuse vehicle of FIG. 5.

FIG. 8 is a left side view of the side-loading refuse vehicle of FIG. 5 configured with a tag axle.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 configured as a mixer vehicle, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 configured as a fire fighting vehicle, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a left side view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 configured as an airport fire fighting vehicle, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 configured as a boom lift, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the vehicle of FIG. 1 configured as a scissor lift, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a vehicle configured with a return assist system, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the front-loading refuse vehicle of FIG. 3 with a return assist system, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a front view of the side-loading refuse vehicle of FIG. 5 with a return assist system, according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of a process for automatically returning a refuse can to its original position, according to an exemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before turning to the figures, which illustrate certain exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a refuse vehicle (e.g., a front end loading refuse vehicle, a side-loading refuse vehicle, a refuse truck, etc.) includes a lift assembly (e.g., a pair or lift arms, an extendable lift arm assembly, a telescoping lift arm assembly, etc.) and a control system configured to operate as a return assist system, either in standalone fashion or as part of an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS). The return assist system includes one or more position sensors positioned in and around the refuse vehicle and the lift assembly to monitor the position of the lift assembly during a refuse collection operation. The control system is configured to assist an operator in returning a refuse container to its original position. For example, the sensors of the return assist system may monitor the height of the lift assembly from the ground and, in embodiments including a side-loading refuse vehicle, a lateral position of the lift assembly from the vehicle body during the refuse collection operation.

An operator may initially control the lift assembly to engage with a refuse container. The return assist system, via one or more controllers, is configured to use the sensor data to determine the original position of a refuse container based on the position of the lift assembly when initially engaged with the refuse container. After engaging the refuse container, the return assist system can assume control over the lift assembly and automatically complete the refuse collection operation, including returning the refuse can to its original position. Advantageously, the return assist system prevents damage to the refuse container and/or the pickup location by ensuring the lift assembly does not attempt, for example, to return the refuse container to a position that is below ground level thereby causing the refuse container to collide with the ground. Relatedly, in embodiments with a side-loading refuse vehicle, the lateral position control of the return assist system ensures the refuse container is returned to its original position, and not, for example, returned too close to the refuse vehicle such that it may be positioned in the street, or too far from the refuse vehicle, such that it may be positioned beyond a pickup location such as a sidewalk.

Overall Vehicle

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a reconfigurable vehicle (e.g., a vehicle assembly, a truck, a vehicle base, etc.) is shown as vehicle 10, according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown, the vehicle 10 includes a frame assembly or chassis assembly, shown as chassis 20, that supports other components of the vehicle 10. The chassis 20 extends longitudinally along a length of the vehicle 10, substantially parallel to a primary direction of travel of the vehicle 10. As shown, the chassis 20 includes three sections or portions, shown as front section 22, middle section 24, and rear section 26. The middle section 24 of the chassis 20 extends between the front section 22 and the rear section 26. In some embodiments, the middle section 24 of the chassis 20 couples the front section 22 to the rear section 26. In other embodiments, the front section 22 is coupled to the rear section 26 by another component (e.g., the body of the vehicle 10).

As shown in FIG. 2, the front section 22 includes a pair of frame portions, frame members, or frame rails, shown as front rail portion 30 and front rail portion 32. The rear section 26 includes a pair of frame portions, frame members, or frame rails, shown as rear rail portion 34 and rear rail portion 36. The front rail portion 30 is laterally offset from the front rail portion 32. Similarly, the rear rail portion 34 is laterally offset from the rear rail portion 36. This spacing may provide frame stiffness and space for vehicle components (e.g., batteries, motors, axles, gears, etc.) between the frame rails. In some embodiments, the front rail portions 30 and 32 and the rear rail portions 34 and 36 extend longitudinally and substantially parallel to one another. The chassis 20 may include additional structural elements (e.g., cross members that extend between and couple the frame rails).

In some embodiments, the front section 22 and the rear section 26 are configured as separate, discrete subframes (e.g., a front subframe and a rear subframe). In such embodiments, the front rail portion 30, the front rail portion 32, the rear rail portion 34, and the rear rail portion 36 are separate, discrete frame rails that are spaced apart from one another. In some embodiments, the front section 22 and the rear section 26 are each directly coupled to the middle section 24 such that the middle section 24 couples the front section 22 to the rear section 26. Accordingly, the middle section 24 may include a structural housing or frame. In other embodiments, the front section 22, the middle section 24, and the rear section 26 are coupled to one another by another component, such as a body of the vehicle 10.

In other embodiments, the front section 22, the middle section 24, and the rear section 26 are defined by a pair of frame rails that extend continuously along the entire length of the vehicle 10. In such an embodiment, the front rail portion 30 and the rear rail portion 34 would be front and rear portions of a first frame rail, and the front rail portion 32 and the rear rail portion 36 would be front and rear portions of a second frame rail. In such embodiments, the middle section 24 would include a center portion of each frame rail.

In some embodiments, the middle section 24 acts as a storage portion that includes one or more vehicle components. The middle section 24 may include an enclosure that contains one or more vehicle components and/or a frame that supports one or more vehicle components. By way of example, the middle section 24 may contain or include one or more electrical energy storage devices (e.g., batteries, capacitors, etc.). By way of another example, the middle section 24 may include fuel tanks fuel tanks. By way of yet another example, the middle section 24 may define a void space or storage volume that can be filled by a user.

A cabin, operator compartment, or body component, shown as cab 40, is coupled to a front end portion of the chassis 20 (e.g., the front section 22 of the chassis 20). Together, the chassis 20 and the cab 40 define a front end of the vehicle 10. The cab 40 extends above the chassis 20. The cab 40 includes an enclosure or main body that defines an interior volume, shown as cab interior 42, that is sized to contain one or more operators. The cab 40 also includes one or more doors 44 that facilitate selective access to the cab interior 42 from outside of the vehicle 10. The cab interior 42 contains one or more components that facilitate operation of the vehicle 10 by the operator. By way of example, the cab interior 42 may contain components that facilitate operator comfort (e.g., seats, seatbelts, etc.), user interface components that receive inputs from the operators (e.g., steering wheels, pedals, touch screens, switches, buttons, levers, etc.), and/or user interface components that provide information to the operators (e.g., lights, gauges, speakers, etc.). The user interface components within the cab 40 may facilitate operator control over the drive components of the vehicle 10 and/or over any implements of the vehicle 10.

The vehicle 10 further includes a series of axle assemblies, shown as front axle 50 and rear axles 52. As shown, the vehicle 10 includes one front axle 50 coupled to the front section 22 of the chassis 20 and two rear axles 52 each coupled to the rear section 26 of the chassis 20. In other embodiments, the vehicle 10 includes more or fewer axles. By way of example, the vehicle 10 may include a tag axle that may be raised or lowered to accommodate variations in weight being carried by the vehicle 10. The front axle 50 and the rear axles 52 each include a series of tractive elements (e.g., wheels, treads, etc.), shown as wheel and tire assemblies 54. The wheel and tire assemblies 54 are configured to engage a support surface (e.g., roads, the ground, etc.) to support and propel the vehicle 10. The front axle 50 and the rear axles may include steering components (e.g., steering arms, steering actuators, etc.), suspension components (e.g., gas springs, dampeners, air springs, etc.), power transmission or drive components (e.g., differentials, drive shafts, etc.), braking components (e.g., brake actuators, brake pads, brake discs, brake drums, etc.), and/or other components that facilitate propulsion or support of the vehicle.

In some embodiments, the vehicle 10 is configured as an electric vehicle that is propelled by an electric powertrain system. Referring to FIG. 1, the vehicle 10 includes one or more electrical energy storage devices (e.g., batteries, capacitors, etc.), shown as batteries 60. As shown, the batteries 60 are positioned within the middle section 24 of the chassis 20. In other embodiments, the batteries 60 are otherwise positioned throughout the vehicle 10. The vehicle 10 further includes one or more electromagnetic devices or prime movers (e.g., motor/generators), shown as drive motors 62. The drive motors 62 are electrically coupled to the batteries 60. The drive motors 62 may be configured to receive electrical energy from the batteries 60 and provide rotational mechanical energy to the wheel and tire assemblies 54 to propel the vehicle 10. The drive motors 62 may be configured to receive rotational mechanical energy from the wheel and tire assemblies 64 and provide electrical energy to the batteries 60, providing a braking force to slow the vehicle 10.

The batteries 60 may include one or more rechargeable batteries (e.g., lithium-ion batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, lithium-ion polymer batteries, lead-acid batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, etc.). The batteries 60 may be charged by one or more sources of electrical energy onboard the vehicle 10 (e.g., solar panels, etc.) or separate from the vehicle 10 (e.g., connections to an electrical power grid, a wireless charging system, etc.). As shown, the drive motors 62 are positioned within the rear axles 52 (e.g., as part of a combined axle and motor assembly). In other embodiments, the drive motors 62 are otherwise positioned within the vehicle 10.

In other embodiments, the vehicle 10 is configured as a hybrid vehicle that is propelled by a hybrid powertrain system (e.g., a diesel/electric hybrid, gasoline/electric hybrid, natural gas/electric hybrid, etc.). According to an exemplary embodiment, the hybrid powertrain system may include a primary driver (e.g., an engine, a motor, etc.), an energy generation device (e.g., a generator, etc.), and/or an energy storage device (e.g., a battery, capacitors, ultra-capacitors, etc.) electrically coupled to the energy generation device. The primary driver may combust fuel (e.g., gasoline, diesel, etc.) to provide mechanical energy, which a transmission may receive and provide to the axle front axle 50 and/or the rear axles 52 to propel the vehicle 10. Additionally or alternatively, the primary driver may provide mechanical energy to the generator, which converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy. The electrical energy may be stored in the energy storage device (e.g., the batteries 60) in order to later be provided to a motive driver.

In yet other embodiments, the chassis 20 may further be configured to support non-hybrid powertrains. For example, the powertrain system may include a primary driver that is a compression-ignition internal combustion engine that utilizes diesel fuel.

Referring to FIG. 1, the vehicle 10 includes a rear assembly, module, implement, body, or cargo area, shown as application kit 80. The application kit 80 may include one or more implements, vehicle bodies, and/or other components. Although the application kit 80 is shown positioned behind the cab 40, in other embodiments the application kit 80 extends forward of the cab 40. The vehicle 10 may be outfitted with a variety of different application kits 80 to configure the vehicle 10 for use in different applications. Accordingly, a common vehicle 10 can be configured for a variety of different uses simply by selecting an appropriate application kit 80. By way of example, the vehicle 10 may be configured as a refuse vehicle, a concrete mixer, a fire fighting vehicle, an airport fire fighting vehicle, a lift device (e.g., a boom lift, a scissor lift, a telehandler, a vertical lift, etc.), a crane, a tow truck, a military vehicle, a delivery vehicle, a mail vehicle, a boom truck, a plow truck, a farming machine or vehicle, a construction machine or vehicle, a coach bus, a school bus, a semi-truck, a passenger or work vehicle (e.g., a sedan, a SUV, a truck, a van, etc.), and/or still another vehicle. FIGS. 3-13 illustrate various examples of how the vehicle 10 may be configured for specific applications. Although only a certain set of vehicle configurations is shown, it should be understood that the vehicle 10 may be configured for use in other applications that are not shown.

The application kit 80 may include various actuators to facilitate certain functions of the vehicle 10. By way of example, the application kit 80 may include hydraulic actuators (e.g., hydraulic cylinders, hydraulic motors, etc.), pneumatic actuators (e.g., pneumatic cylinders, pneumatic motors, etc.), and/or electrical actuators (e.g., electric motors, electric linear actuators, etc.). The application kit 80 may include components that facilitate operation of and/or control of these actuators. By way of example, the application kit 80 may include hydraulic or pneumatic components that form a hydraulic or pneumatic circuit (e.g., conduits, valves, pumps, compressors, gauges, reservoirs, accumulators, etc.). By way of another example, the application kit 80 may include electrical components (e.g., batteries, capacitors, voltage regulators, motor controllers, etc.). The actuators may be powered by components of the vehicle 10. By way of example, the actuators may be powered by the batteries 60, the drive motors 62, or the primary driver (e.g., through a power take off).

The vehicle 10 generally extends longitudinally from a front side 86 to a rear side 88. The front side 86 is defined by the cab 40 and/or the chassis. The rear side 88 is defined by the application kit 80 and/or the chassis 20. The primary, forward direction of travel of the vehicle 10 is longitudinal, with the front side 86 being arranged forward of the rear side 88.

A. Front-Loading Refuse Vehicle

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4, the vehicle 10 is configured as a refuse vehicle 100 (e.g., a refuse truck, a garbage truck, a waste collection truck, a sanitation truck, a recycling truck, etc.). Specifically, the refuse vehicle 100 is a front-loading refuse vehicle. In other embodiments, the refuse vehicle 100 is configured as a rear-loading refuse vehicle or a front-loading refuse vehicle. The refuse vehicle 100 may be configured to transport refuse from various waste receptacles (e.g., refuse containers) within a municipality to a storage and/or processing facility (e.g., a landfill, an incineration facility, a recycling facility, etc.).

FIG. 4 illustrates the refuse vehicle 100 of FIG. 3 configured with a liftable axle, shown as tag axle 90, including a pair of wheel and tire assemblies 54. As shown, the tag axle 90 is positioned reward of the rear axles 52. The tag axle 90 can be selectively raised and lowered (e.g., by a hydraulic actuator) to selectively engage the wheel and tire assemblies 54 of the tag axle 90 with the ground. The tag axle 90 may be raised to reduce rolling resistance experienced by the refuse vehicle 100. The tag axle 90 may be lowered to distribute the loaded weight of the vehicle 100 across a greater number of a wheel and tire assemblies 54 (e.g., when the refuse vehicle 100 is loaded with refuse).

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the application kit 80 of the refuse vehicle 100 includes a series of panels that form a rear body or container, shown as refuse compartment 130. The refuse compartment 130 may facilitate transporting refuse from various waste receptacles within a municipality to a storage and/or a processing facility (e.g., a landfill, an incineration facility, a recycling facility, etc.). By way of example, loose refuse may be placed into the refuse compartment 130 where it may be compacted (e.g., by a packer system within the refuse compartment 130). The refuse compartment 130 may also provide temporary storage for refuse during transport to a waste disposal site and/or a recycling facility. In some embodiments, the refuse compartment 130 may define a hopper volume 132 and storage volume 134. In this regard, refuse may be initially loaded into the hopper volume 132 and later compacted into the storage volume 134. As shown, the hopper volume 132 is positioned between the storage volume 134 and the cab 40 (e.g., refuse is loaded into a portion of the refuse compartment 130 behind the cab 40 and stored in a portion further toward the rear of the refuse compartment 130). In other embodiments, the storage volume may be positioned between the hopper volume and the cab 40 (e.g., in a rear-loading refuse truck, etc.). The application kit 80 of the refuse vehicle 100 further includes a pivotable rear portion, shown as tailgate 136, that is pivotally coupled to the refuse compartment 130. The tailgate 136 may be selectively repositionable between a closed position and an open position by an actuator (e.g., a hydraulic cylinder, an electric linear actuator, etc.), shown as tailgate actuator 138 (e.g., to facilitate emptying the storage volume).

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the refuse vehicle 100 also includes an implement, shown as lift assembly 140, which is a front-loading lift assembly. According to an exemplary embodiment, the lift assembly 140 includes a pair of lift arms 142 and a pair of actuators (e.g., hydraulic cylinders, electric linear actuators, etc.), shown as lift arm actuators 144. The lift arms 142 may be rotatably coupled to the chassis 20 and/or the refuse compartment 130 on each side of the refuse vehicle 100 (e.g., through a pivot, a lug, a shaft, etc.), such that the lift assembly 140 may extend forward relative to the cab 40 (e.g., a front-loading refuse truck, etc.). In other embodiments, the lift assembly 140 may extend rearward relative to the application kit 80 (e.g., a rear-loading refuse truck). As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, in an exemplary embodiment the lift arm actuators 144 may be positioned such that extension and retraction of the lift arm actuators 144 rotates the lift arms 142 about an axis extending through the pivot. In this regard, the lift arms 142 may be rotated by the lift arm actuators 144 to lift a refuse container over the cab 40. The lift assembly 140 further includes a pair of interface members, shown as lift forks 146, each pivotally coupled to a distal end of one of the lift arms 142. The lift forks 146 may be configured to engage a refuse container (e.g., a dumpster) to selectively coupled the refuse container to the lift arms 142. By way of example, each of the lift forks 146 may be received within a corresponding pocket defined by the refuse container. A pair of actuators (e.g., hydraulic cylinders, electric linear actuators, etc.), shown as articulation actuators 148, are each coupled to one of the lift arms 142 and one of the lift forks 146. The articulation actuators 148 may be positioned to rotate the lift forks 146 relative to the lift arms 142 about a horizontal axis. Accordingly, the articulation actuators 148 may assist in tipping refuse out of the refuse container and into the refuse compartment 130. The lift arm actuators 144 may then rotate the lift arms 142 to return the empty refuse container to the ground.

B. Side-Loading Refuse Vehicle

Referring now to FIGS. 5-8, an alternative configuration of the refuse vehicle 100 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. Specifically, the refuse vehicle 100 of FIGS. 5-8 is configured as a side-loading refuse vehicle. The refuse vehicle 100 of FIGS. 5-8 may be substantially similar to the front-loading refuse vehicle 100 of FIGS. 3 and 4 except as otherwise specified herein. As shown, the refuse vehicle 100 of FIGS. 5-7 is configured with a tag axle 90 in FIG. 8.

Referring still to FIGS. 5-8, the refuse vehicle 100 omits the lift assembly 140 and instead includes a side-loading lift assembly, shown as lift assembly 160, that extends laterally outward from a side of the refuse vehicle 100. The lift assembly 160 includes an interface assembly, shown as grabber assembly 162, that is configured to engage a refuse container (e.g., a residential garbage can) to selectively couple the refuse container to the lift assembly 160. The grabber assembly 162 includes a main portion, shown as main body 164, and a pair of fingers or interface members, shown as grabber fingers 166. The grabber fingers 166 are pivotally coupled to the main body 164 such that the grabber fingers 166 are each rotatable about a vertical axis. A pair of actuators (e.g., hydraulic motors, electric motors, etc.), shown as finger actuators 168, are configured to control movement of the grabber fingers 166 relative to the main body 164.

The grabber assembly 162 is movably coupled to a guide, shown as track 170, that extends vertically along a side of the refuse vehicle 100. Specifically, the main body 164 is slidably coupled to the track 170 such that the main body 164 is repositionable along a length of the track 170. An actuator (e.g., a hydraulic motor, an electric motor, etc.), shown as lift actuator 172, is configured to control movement of the grabber assembly 162 along the length of the track 170. In some embodiments, a bottom end portion of the track 170 is straight and substantially vertical such that the grabber assembly 162 raises or lowers a refuse container when moving along the bottom end portion of the track 170. In some embodiments, a top end portion of the track 170 is curved such that the grabber assembly 162 inverts a refuse container to dump refuse into the hopper volume 132 when moving along the top end portion of the track 170.

The lift assembly 160 further includes an actuator (e.g., a hydraulic cylinder, an electric linear actuator, etc.), shown as track actuator 174, that is configured to control lateral movement of the grabber assembly 162. By way of example, the track actuator 174 may be coupled to the chassis 20 and the track 170 such that the track actuator 174 moves the track 170 and the grabber assembly 162 laterally relative to the chassis 20. The track actuator 174 may facilitate repositioning the grabber assembly 162 to pick up and replace refuse containers that are spaced laterally outward from the refuse vehicle 100.

C. Concrete Mixer Truck

Referring now to FIG. 9, the vehicle 10 is configured as a mixer truck (e.g., a concrete mixer truck, a mixer vehicle, etc.), shown as mixer truck 200. Specifically, the mixer truck 200 is shown as a rear-discharge concrete mixer truck. In other embodiments, the mixer truck 200 is a front-discharge concrete mixer truck.

As shown in FIG. 9, the application kit 80 includes a mixing drum assembly (e.g., a concrete mixing drum), shown as drum assembly 230. The drum assembly 230 may include a mixing drum 232, a drum drive system 234 (e.g., a rotational actuator or motor, such as an electric motor or hydraulic motor), an inlet portion, shown as hopper 236, and an outlet portion, shown as chute 238. The mixing drum 232 may be coupled to the chassis 20 and may be disposed behind the cab 40 (e.g., at the rear and/or middle of the chassis 20). In an exemplary embodiment, the drum drive system 234 is coupled to the chassis 20 and configured to selectively rotate the mixing drum 232 about a central, longitudinal axis. According to an exemplary embodiment, the central, longitudinal axis of the mixing drum 232 may be elevated from the chassis 20 (e.g., from a horizontal plan extending along the chassis 20) at an angle in the range of five degrees to twenty degrees. In other embodiments, the central, longitudinal axis may be elevated by less than five degrees (e.g., four degrees, etc.). In yet another embodiment, the mixer truck 200 may include an actuator positioned to facilitate adjusting the central, longitudinal axis to a desired or target angle (e.g., manually in response to an operator input/command, automatically according to a control system, etc.).

The mixing drum 232 may be configured to receive a mixture, such as a concrete mixture (e.g., cementitious material, aggregate, sand, etc.), through the hopper 236. In some embodiments, the mixer truck 200 includes an injection system (e.g., a series of nozzles, hoses, and/or valves) including an injection valve that selectively fluidly couples a supply of fluid to the inner volume of the mixing drum 232. By way of example, the injection system may be used to inject water and/or chemicals (e.g., air entrainers, water reducers, set retarders, set accelerators, superplasticizers, corrosion inhibitors, coloring, calcium chloride, minerals, and/or other concrete additives, etc.) into the mixing drum 232. The injection valve may facilitate injecting water and/or chemicals from a fluid reservoir (e.g., a water tank, etc.) into the mixing drum 232, while preventing the mixture in the mixing drum 232 from exiting the mixing drum 232 through the injection system. In some embodiments, one or more mixing elements (e.g., fins, etc.) may be positioned in the interior of the mixing drum 232, and may be configured to agitate the contents of the mixture when the mixing drum 232 is rotated in a first direction (e.g., counterclockwise, clockwise, etc.), and drive the mixture out through the chute 238 when the mixing drum 232 is rotated in a second direction (e.g., clockwise, counterclockwise, etc.). In some embodiments, the chute 238 may also include an actuator positioned such that the chute 238 may be selectively pivotable to position the chute 238 (e.g., vertically, laterally, etc.), for example at an angle at which the mixture is expelled from the mixing drum 232.

D. Fire Truck

Referring now to FIG. 10, the vehicle 10 is configured as a fire fighting vehicle, fire truck, or fire apparatus (e.g., a turntable ladder truck, a pumper truck, a quint, etc.), shown as fire fighting vehicle 250. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the fire fighting vehicle 250 is configured as a rear-mount aerial ladder truck. In other embodiments, the fire fighting vehicle 250 is configured as a mid-mount aerial ladder truck, a quint fire truck (e.g., including an onboard water storage, a hose storage, a water pump, etc.), a tiller fire truck, a pumper truck (e.g., without an aerial ladder), or another type of response vehicle. By way of example, the vehicle 10 may be configured as a police vehicle, an ambulance, a tow truck, or still other vehicles used for responding to a scene (e.g., an accident, a fire, an incident, etc.).

As shown in FIG. 10, in the fire fighting vehicle 250, the application kit 80 is positioned mainly rearward from the cab 40. The application kit 80 includes deployable stabilizers (e.g., outriggers, downriggers, etc.), shown as outriggers 252, that are coupled to the chassis 20. The outriggers 252 may be configured to selectively extend from each lateral side and/or the rear of the fire fighting vehicle 250 and engage a support surface (e.g., the ground) in order to provide increased stability while the fire fighting vehicle 250 is stationary. The fire fighting vehicle 250 further includes an extendable or telescoping ladder assembly, shown as ladder assembly 254. The increased stability provided by the outriggers 252 is desirable when the ladder assembly 254 is in use (e.g., extended from the fire fighting vehicle 250) to prevent tipping. In some embodiments, the application kit 80 further includes various storage compartments (e.g., cabinets, lockers, etc.) that may be selectively opened and/or accessed for storage and/or component inspection, maintenance, and/or replacement.

As shown in FIG. 10, the ladder assembly 254 includes a series of ladder sections 260 that are slidably coupled with one another such that the ladder sections 260 may extend and/or retract (e.g., telescope) relative to one another to selectively vary a length of the ladder assembly 254. A base platform, shown as turntable 262, is rotatably coupled to the chassis 20 and to a proximal end of a base ladder section 260 (i.e., the most proximal of the ladder sections 260). The turntable 262 may be configured to rotate about a vertical axis relative to the chassis 20 to rotate the ladder sections 260 about the vertical axis (e.g., up to 360 degrees, etc.). The ladder sections 260 may rotate relative to the turntable 262 about a substantially horizontal axis to selectively raise and lower the ladder sections 260 relative to the chassis 20. As shown, a water turret or implement, shown as monitor 264, is coupled to a distal end of a fly ladder section 260 (i.e., the most distal of the ladder sections 260). The monitor 264 may be configured to expel water and/or a fire suppressing agent (e.g., foam, etc.) from a water storage tank and/or an agent tank onboard the fire fighting vehicle 250, and/or from an external source (e.g., a fire hydrant, a separate water/pumper truck, etc.). In some embodiments, the ladder assembly 254 further includes an aerial platform coupled to the distal end of the fly ladder section 260 and configured to support one or more operators.

E. ARFF Truck

Referring now to FIG. 11, the vehicle 10 is configured as a fire fighting vehicle, shown as airport rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) truck 300. As shown in FIG. 11, the application kit 80 is positioned primarily rearward of the cab 40. As shown, the application kit 80 includes a series of storage compartments or cabinets, shown as compartments 302, that are coupled to the chassis 20. The compartments 302 may store various equipment or components of the ARFF truck 300.

The application kit 80 includes a pump system 304 (e.g., an ultra-high-pressure pump system, etc.) positioned within one of the compartments 302 near the center of the ARFF truck 300. The application kit 80 further includes a water tank 310, an agent tank 312, and an implement or water turret, shown as monitor 314. The pump system 304 may include a high pressure pump and/or a low pressure pump, which may be fluidly coupled to the water tank 310 and/or the agent tank 312. The pump system 304 may to pump water and/or fire suppressing agent from the water tank 310 and the agent tank 312, respectively, to the monitor 314. The monitor 314 may be selectively reoriented by an operator to adjust a direction of a stream of water and/or agent. As shown in FIG. 11, the monitor 314 is coupled to a front end of the cab 40.

F. Boom Lift

Referring now to FIG. 12, the vehicle 10 is configured as a lift device, shown as boom lift 350. The boom lift 350 may be configured to support and elevate one or more operators. In other embodiments, the vehicle 10 is configured as another type of lift device that is configured to lift operators and/or material, such as a skid-loader, a telehandler, a scissor lift, a fork lift, a vertical lift, and/or any other type of lift device or machine.

As shown in FIG. 12, the application kit 80 includes a base assembly, shown as turntable 352, that is rotatably coupled to the chassis 20. The turntable 352 may be configured to selectively rotate relative to the chassis 20 about a substantially vertical axis. In some embodiments, the turntable 352 includes a counterweight (e.g., the batteries) positioned near the rear of the turntable 352. The turntable 352 is rotatably coupled to a lift assembly, shown as boom assembly 354. The boom assembly 354 includes a first section or telescoping boom section, shown as lower boom 360. The lower boom 360 includes a series of nested boom sections that extend and retract (e.g., telescope) relative to one another to vary a length of the boom assembly 354. The boom assembly 354 further includes a second boom section or four bar linkage, shown as upper boom 362. The upper boom 362 may includes structural members that rotate relative to one another to raise and lower a distal end of the boom assembly 354. In other embodiments, the boom assembly 354 includes more or fewer boom sections (e.g., one, three, five, etc.) and/or a different arrangement of boom sections.

As shown in FIG. 12, the boom assembly 354 includes a first actuator, shown as lower lift cylinder 364. The lower boom 360 is pivotally coupled (e.g., pinned, etc.) to the turntable 352 at a joint or lower boom pivot point. The lower lift cylinder 364 (e.g., a pneumatic cylinder, an electric linear actuator, a hydraulic cylinder, etc.) is coupled to the turntable 352 at a first end and coupled to the lower boom 360 at a second end. The lower lift cylinder 364 may be configured to raise and lower the lower boom 360 relative to the turntable 352 about the lower boom pivot point.

The boom assembly 354 further includes a second actuator, shown as upper lift cylinder 366. The upper boom 362 is pivotally coupled (e.g., pinned) to the upper end of the lower boom 360 at a joint or upper boom pivot point. The upper lift cylinder 366 (e.g., a pneumatic cylinder, an electric linear actuator, a hydraulic cylinder, etc.) is coupled to the upper boom 362. The upper lift cylinder 366 may be configured to extend and retract to actuate (e.g., lift, rotate, elevate, etc.) the upper boom 362, thereby raising and lowering a distal end of the upper boom 362.

Referring still to FIG. 12, the application kit 80 further includes an operator platform, shown as platform assembly 370, coupled to the distal end of the upper boom 362 by an extension arm, shown as jib arm 372. The jib arm 372 may be configured to pivot the platform assembly 370 about a lateral axis (e.g., to move the platform assembly 370 up and down, etc.) and/or about a vertical axis (e.g., to move the platform assembly 370 left and right, etc.).

The platform assembly 370 provides a platform configured to support one or more operators or users. In some embodiments, the platform assembly 370 may include accessories or tools configured for use by the operators. For example, the platform assembly 370 may include pneumatic tools (e.g., an impact wrench, airbrush, nail gun, ratchet, etc.), plasma cutters, welders, spotlights, etc. In some embodiments, the platform assembly 370 includes a control panel (e.g., a user interface, a removable or detachable control panel, etc.) configured to control operation of the boom lift 350 (e.g., the turntable 352, the boom assembly 354, etc.) from the platform assembly 370 or remotely. In other embodiments, the platform assembly 370 is omitted, and the boom lift 350 includes an accessory and/or tool (e.g., forklift forks, etc.) coupled to the distal end of the boom assembly 354.

G. Scissor Lift

Referring now to FIG. 13, the vehicle 10 is configured as a lift device, shown as scissor lift 400. As shown in FIG. 13, the application kit 80 includes a body, shown as lift base 402, coupled to the chassis 20. The lift base 402 is coupled to a scissor assembly, shown as lift assembly 404, such that the lift base 402 supports the lift assembly 404. The lift assembly 404 is configured to extend and retract, raising and lowering between a raised position and a lowered position relative to the lift base 402.

As shown in FIG. 13, the lift base 402 includes a series of actuators, stabilizers, downriggers, or outriggers, shown as leveling actuators 410. The leveling actuators 410 may extend and retract vertically between a stored position and a deployed position. In the stored position, the leveling actuators 410 may be raised, such that the leveling actuators 410 do not contact the ground. Conversely, in the deployed position, the leveling actuators 410 may engage the ground to lift the lift base 402. The length of each of the leveling actuators 410 in their respective deployed positions may be varied in order to adjust the pitch (e.g., rotational position about a lateral axis) and the roll (e.g., rotational position about a longitudinal axis) of the lift base 402 and/or the chassis 20. Accordingly, the lengths of the leveling actuators 410 in their respective deployed positions may be adjusted to level the lift base 402 with respect to the direction of gravity (e.g., on uneven, sloped, pitted, etc. terrain). The leveling actuators 410 may lift the wheel and tire assemblies 54 off of the ground to prevent movement of the scissor lift 400 during operation. In other embodiments, the leveling actuators 410 are omitted.

The lift assembly 404 may include a series of subassemblies, shown as scissor layers 420, each including a pair of inner members and a pair of outer members pivotally coupled to one another. The scissor layers 420 may be stacked atop one another in order to form the lift assembly 404, such that movement of one scissor layer 420 causes a similar movement in all of the other scissor layers 420. The scissor layers 420 extend between and couple the lift base 402 and an operator platform (e.g., the platform assembly 430). In some embodiments, scissor layers 420 may be added to, or removed from, the lift assembly 404 in order to increase, or decrease, the fully extended height of the lift assembly 404.

Referring still to FIG. 13, the lift assembly 404 may also include one or more lift actuators 424 (e.g., hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders, electric linear actuators such as motor-driven leadscrews, etc.) configured to extend and retract the lift assembly 404. The lift actuators 424 may be pivotally coupled to inner members of various scissor layers 420, or otherwise arranged within the lift assembly 404.

A distal or upper end of the lift assembly 404 is coupled to an operator platform, shown as platform assembly 430. The platform assembly 430 may perform similar functions to the platform assembly 370, such as supporting one or more operators, accessories, and/or tools. The platform assembly 430 may include a control panel to control operation of the scissor lift 400. The lift actuators 424 may be configured to actuate the lift assembly 404 to selectively reposition the platform assembly 430 between a lowered position (e.g., where the platform assembly 430 is proximate to the lift base 402) and a raised position (e.g., where the platform assembly 430 is at an elevated height relative to the lift base 402). Specifically, in some embodiments, extension of the lift actuators 424 moves the platform assembly 430 upward (e.g., extending the lift assembly 404), and retraction of the lift actuators 424 moves the platform assembly 430 downward (e.g., retracting the lift assembly 404). In other embodiments, extension of the lift actuators 424 retracts the lift assembly 404, and retraction of the lift actuators 424 extends the lift assembly 404.

Return Assist System

As a general overview, a refuse vehicle (e.g., a front end loading refuse vehicle, a side-loading refuse vehicle, a refuse truck, etc.) includes a lift assembly for engaging with a refuse container. The lift assembly (e.g., lift assembly 140, lift assembly 160) includes an interface member configured to engage with the refuse container and a positioning assembly for controlling the position of the interface member. For example, in a front end loading refuse vehicle, the positioning assembly can comprise the lift arms 142, lift arm actuators 144, and the interface member includes the lift forks 146 described above with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. Relatedly, in a side-loading refuse vehicle, the positioning assembly can comprise track 170 and lift actuator 172, and the interface member includes the grabber assembly 162 described above with reference to FIGS. 5-8. Regardless of the configuration of the refuse vehicle 100 and the lift assembly, the refuse vehicle may include a return assist system configured to automatically operate the lift assembly to return a refuse container to its original position and complete a refuse collection operation. For example, the return assist system may be configured to receive a user input to control the lift assembly to position the interface member and engage a refuse container. The return assist system determines the height and in some embodiments, the lateral position of the interface member when first engaged with the refuse container to determine an original position for the refuse container. The return assist system may then automatically perform a dumping operation to empty the refuse container into the hopper of the refuse vehicle and then automatically return the refuse container to its original position.

In some embodiments, the return assist system is configured to merely assist the operator in returning the refuse container to its original position by setting virtual stops on the movement of lift assembly based on the original position of the refuse container. For example, the return assist system may be configured to set a minimum height requirement for movement of the lift assembly based on the height of the interface member when initially engaged with the refuse container. The lift assembly can thereafter be operated by the operator but limited by the return assist system to operating above the minimum height requirement, thereby preventing the operator from lowering the refuse container beneath the original position and possibly impacting the ground. Relatedly, a maximum lateral distance based on the lateral position of the refuse container when initially engaged with may limit movement of the lift assembly such that an operator cannot extend the lift assembly passed the maximum lateral distance, thereby preventing the operator from positioning the lift assembly beyond a sidewalk, for example.

According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 14, refuse vehicle 100 includes a return assist system 502, a lift assembly 512, and a user interface 510. The return assist system 502 may be one of one or more controllers of the refuse vehicle 100. The return assist system is configured to receive sensor information from one or more position sensors 514 of lift assembly 512 and user inputs from user interface 510. In some embodiments, the return assists system 502 can operate any controllable elements of refuse vehicle 100, such as lift assembly 512.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the return assist system (RAS) 502 includes a processing circuit 504, a processor 506, and memory 508. The processing circuit 504 can be communicably connected to a communications interface such that the processing circuit 504 and the various components thereof can send and receive data via the communications interface. The processor 506 can be implemented as a general purpose processor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), a group of processing components, or other suitable electronic processing components.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory 508 (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device, etc.) can include one or more non-transient memory devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage, etc.) for storing data and/or computer code for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in the present application. The memory 508 can be or include volatile memory or non-volatile memory. The memory 508 can include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present application. According to some embodiments, the memory 508 is communicably connected to the processor 506 via the processing circuit 504 and includes computer code for executing (e.g., by the processing circuit 504 and/or the processor 506) one or more processes described herein.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the RAS 502 includes user interface 510. User interface 510 can be a human machine interface (HMI) that includes various displays and user input devices (e.g., buttons, switches, levers, dials, joysticks, etc.), for operation of refuse vehicle 100 and/or lift assembly 512. In some embodiments, user interface 510 is positioned within cab 40 of refuse vehicle 100. In some embodiments, user interface 510 is positioned outside of the cab 40, for example in an external control panel. In some embodiments, there can be multiple user interface 510 positioned throughout the interior and/or exterior of the refuse vehicle 100. In some embodiments, the user interface 510 is configured to obtain user inputs from input devices and provide the user inputs to RAS 502. The user inputs can indicate a desired command for refuse vehicle 100 or for an apparatus, system, device, sub-system, assembly, etc., of refuse vehicle 10. For example, the user inputs can control a position of lift assembly 512 and include a command to engage with and/or commence refuse collection for a refuse container.

According to an exemplary embodiment, refuse collection vehicle 100 includes lift assembly 512. Lift assembly 512 may be a front end loading lift assembly such as lift assembly 140 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 or a side-loading lift assembly 160 as shown in FIGS. 5-8. Still, in other embodiments the lift assembly 512 is another configuration (e.g., a rear-end loading lift assembly). The lift assembly 140 includes positioning assembly and one or more interface members for engaging with a refuse container.

According to an exemplary embodiment, lift assembly 512 includes one or more sensors, shown as position sensors 514. The position sensors 514 may be disposed at various locations around refuse vehicle 100 and/or lift assembly 512 to measure the position of the interface member(s) of the lift assembly 512 and/or the refuse container. In some embodiments, the position sensors 514 measure a position of the lift assembly 512 and/or one or more of its subcomponents as described above. In some embodiments, the position sensors 514 measure one or more of a lateral distance of the interface member relative to the refuse vehicle 100, a vertical distance of the interface member relative to the ground and/or the refuse vehicle 100, or a longitudinal distance of the interface member relative to the refuse vehicle 100. In some embodiments, the position sensors 514 measure the position of the lift assembly 512 by monitoring the position of the lift assembly 512 and/or one or more of its subcomponents as described above (e.g., one or more actuators, etc.). In some embodiments, the RAS 502 is configured to determine the original position of the refuse container 150 based on the engagement position of the lift assembly 140 and/or its subcomponents. That is, the RAS 502 may be configured to measure the position of the of the lift assembly 512 and/or one or more of its subcomponents when an engagement signal is received and use the measured position information to infer an original position of the refuse container.

The position sensors 514 include any one and/or a combination of proximity sensors, capacitive displacement sensors, radar sensors, ultrasonic sensors, Hall Effect sensors, inductive sensors, Doppler Effect sensors, magnetic sensors, laser sensors (e.g., LIDAR sensors), sonar, and/or the like. In some embodiments, the positions sensors 514 are configured to measure the stroke position of one more actuators of the lift assembly 512 (e.g., lift arm actuators 144, articulation actuators 148, finger actuators 168, and/or lift actuator 172) to determine a position of an interface member configured to me positioned by the one or more actuators (e.g., lift forks 146, grabber assembly 162, etc.).

In some embodiments, RAS 502 is configured to monitor a height from the ground and a lateral distance of lift assembly 512 and/or the interface member relative to the refuse vehicle 100 to determine an engagement position of the lift assembly 512 and/or an original position for a refuse container 150. In some embodiments, RAS 502 is configured to monitor a height from the ground and a lateral distance of lift assembly 512 and/or the interface member relative to the refuse vehicle 100 and restrict the operation of the lift assembly 512 based on the measured height and/or lateral distance.

According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 15, refuse vehicle 100 is shown as a front end loading refuse vehicle with lift assembly 140, a return assist system 502, and one or more position sensors 514 for measuring an original position of refuse container 150. In some embodiments, RAS 502 is configured to determine an engagement position of the lift assembly 140 when initially engaged with refuse container 150. The engagement position of the lift assembly 140 can correlate with an original position of the refuse container 150. The engagement position of lift assembly 140 is shown by lift assembly 140′, which is shown engaged with refuse container 150′ representing the original position of the refuse container 150. In some embodiments, RAS 502 is configured to measure the height of the interface member of lift assembly 140′ from the ground at the time the interface member engages with the refuse container 150′, shown as vertical engagement distance 1502. In some embodiments, RAS 502 is configured to determine the engagement position of the lift assembly 140′ and/or the original position of the refuse container 150′ by measuring one or more of the current stroke distances of the one or more actuators in the lift assembly, such as stroke distances 1506 and 1508. RAS 502 may be configured to use the stroke distances and the known dimensions of the lift assembly 140 to calculate a position of lift assembly 140 and its vertical engagement distance 1502 in addition to and/or alternatively to directly measuring the vertical engagement distance 1502 such as with position sensor 514.

According to an exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 16, refuse vehicle 100 is shown as a side-loading refuse vehicle with lift assembly 160, a return assist system 502, and one or more position sensors 514 for measuring an original position of refuse container 150. In some embodiments, in addition to measuring a vertical engagement distance 1502 between the lift assembly 160 and the ground in an engagement position, shown by lift assembly 160′, a lateral engagement distance 1504 may also be measured between the lift assembly 160′ and the refuse vehicle 100. In some embodiments, the lateral engagement distance 1504 is directly measured by one or more position sensors 514. In other embodiments, the lateral engagement distance 1504 is inferred from one or more positions sensors 514 that measure a stroke position of one or more actuators in lift assembly 160. The RAS 502 (not shown) may be configured to monitor the vertical engagement distance 1502 and the lateral engagement distance 1504 to determine the original position of the refuse container 150 and/or the engagement position of the lift assembly 160′.

In operation, for example, an operator commands the lift assembly 160 to extend laterally away from the body of the refuse vehicle 100 until it contacts the refuse container 150 at a lateral engagement distance 1504. As shown, refuse container 150 can be positioned on an elevated surface (e.g., platform, sidewalk, driveway, etc.) shown as sidewalk 1520. In addition to commanding the lateral distance, the operator may also command the lift assembly to an appropriate vertical engagement distance 1502 as shown by lift assembly 160′. While the vertical engagement distance 1502 is shown as being measured from the ground 1522, in some embodiments the vertical engagement distance 1502 is measured from a top surface of the an elevated area the refuse container 150 is positioned on, such as sidewalk 1520. The operator then commands the lift assembly 160′ to engage with the refuse container 150. Upon receiving the engagement command, in some embodiments the RAS 502 assumes control over the lift assembly 160′. The RAS 502 may determine the vertical engagement distance 1502 and the lateral engagement distance 1504 when the engagement command is received, and engage one or more interface members, shown as grabber fingers 166′ to engage with the refuse container 150. In some embodiments, RAS 502 automatically directs lift assembly 160′ to empty refuse container 150. Further, RAS 502 may also automatically command the lift assembly back to the engagement position as determined by the vertical engagement distance 1502 and the lateral engagement distance 1504 before releasing the refuse container 150 and withdrawing the lift assembly 160′. Advantageously, automatic control by RAS 502 ensures that the refuse container 150 is not driven into the sidewalk 1520 when being replaced, as the lift assembly 140 is instead directed to release the refuse container 150 at vertical engagement distance 1502. In some embodiments, the RAS 502 directs the lift assembly 140 to release the refuse container 150 a small distance above the vertical engagement distance 1502 (e.g., 1 in, 2 in, etc.) to ensure the refuse container 150 does not make contact with the ground surface.

In some embodiments, the RAS 502 allows an operator to maintain control of the lift assembly 160′, and instead uses the vertical engagement distance 1502 and the lateral engagement distance 1504 to set virtual stops on the movement of the lift assembly 160. The virtual stops prevent an operator from exceeding the limits determined by the engagement position. Advantageously, this ensures that the operator cannot accidentally direct the refuse container 150 into a side of sidewalk 1520, for example, when extending refuse container 150 laterally back to its original position after being emptied. A minimum height at vertical engagement distance 1502 thereby ensures that the working height (i.e., height above ground at any instance during the refuse collection operation) is greater than or equal to the vertical engagement distance 1502 such that the refuse container 150 cannot contact the side of sidewalk 1520.

Referring now to FIG. 17, a process 1700 for providing automatic return assist for a refuse container is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment. In some embodiments, process 1700 is performed by one or more components of refuse vehicle 100. For example, process 1700 can be performed by the return assist system 502.

In some embodiments, process 1700 includes receiving a user input to operate a lift assembly to engage with a refuse container (step 1702). The user input may be provided by an operator and include commands to position a lift assembly of the refuse vehicle (e.g., lift assembly 140, lift assembly 160) to allow one or more interface members (e.g., lift forks 146, grabber fingers 166) to engage with a refuse container. The user input may also include an engagement signal to activate the one or more interface members to engage with the refuse container and/or to begin the refuse collection operation.

In some embodiments, process 1700 includes engaging the lift assembly with the refuse container (step 1704). In some embodiments with a front-end loading lift refuse vehicle, engagement can include operating lift forks 146 to lift refuse container 150. In embodiments with a side-loading refuse vehicle, engagement can include operating one or more grabber fingers 166 to engage with refuse container 150.

In some embodiments, process 1700 includes determining a vertical engagement distance of the interface member of the lift assembly from position sensor(s) (step 1706). The vertical engagement distance may represent the distance between a point of the lift assembly and the ground. The vertical engagement distance may be directly measured from the interface member of the lift assembly. In other embodiments, the vertical engagement distance is inferred from a measurement of the stroke length of one or more actuators in the lift assembly. In some embodiments, the position sensor(s) determine the vertical engagement distance after receiving the engagement signal to determine the “engagement position” of the lift assembly. The engagement position may also be used to determine the original position of the refuse container prior to the refuse collection operation.

In some embodiments, process 1700 includes determining a lateral engagement distance of the interface member of the lift assembly from the position sensors (step 1708). Step 1708 is an optional step, and in some embodiments, such as a refuse vehicle where the lateral engagement distance is fixed, process 1700 may skip step 1708 and proceed directly to step 1710. The lateral engagement distance may represent the lateral distance in a horizontal plane between the interface member and the refuse vehicle as measured from home position of the lift assembly. In some embodiments, the lateral engagement distance is measured directly via the position sensors (e.g., position sensors 514). In other embodiments, the lateral engagement distance is inferred by RAS 502 by instead measuring the stoke position of one or more actuators in the lift assembly.

In some embodiments, process 1700 includes emptying the refuse container (step 1710). RAS 502 may be configured to assume control over the lift assembly and automatically complete the refuse collection operation after an engagement signal is received (i.e., performing a dumping operation and return operation). For example, RAS 502 may be configured to receive the engagement signal and engage the interface members with the refuse container, lift the refuse container and reposition it until its contents are emptied into the refuse vehicle (e.g., hopper volume 132), and automatically without user intervention.

In some embodiments, process 1700 includes returning the refuse container to its original position based on the vertical engagement distance and the lateral engagement distance of the interface member. In addition to automatically dumping the refuse container, RAS 502 can be configured to return the refuse container to its original position as indicated by the vertical engagement distance 1502 and the lateral engagement distance 1504 automatically. Advantageously, by measuring, storing, and returning the refuse container to its original position automatically, RAS 502 prevents damage to the refuse container and/or the pickup location by ensuring the lift assembly returns the refuse container to a known “safe” position. For example, an operator attempting to return the refuse container may attempt to place the refuse container at a distance from the ground that is smaller than the vertical engagement distance. Because the vertical engagement distance is representative of the where the refuse container naturally rests on the ground, attempting to drive the refuse container lower will force a collision between the refuse container and the ground, possibly damaging the refuse container, the ground, and the lift assembly. Instead, by ensuring the refuse container is returned to its original position as measured and/or inferred by RAS 502, such accidents are avoided. Additionally, RAS 502 provides for single-command empty and return functionality. For example, when an operator sends an engagement command to the lift assembly to engage with the refuse container, the RAS 502 can be configured to assume control and complete the refuse collection operation automatically, by both emptying the refuse container and returning it to its original condition. Not only does this avoid returning the refuse container to an unsafe position, it also frees an operator to complete other tasks.

As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially,” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims.

It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).

The term “coupled” and variations thereof, as used herein, means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members coupled directly to each other, with the two members coupled to each other using a separate intervening member and any additional intermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two members coupled to each other using an intervening member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. If “coupled” or variations thereof are modified by an additional term (e.g., directly coupled), the generic definition of “coupled” provided above is modified by the plain language meaning of the additional term (e.g., “directly coupled” means the joining of two members without any separate intervening member), resulting in a narrower definition than the generic definition of “coupled” provided above. Such coupling may be mechanical, electrical, or fluidic.

References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below”) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.

The hardware and data processing components used to implement the various processes, operations, illustrative logics, logical blocks, modules and circuits described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implemented or performed with a general purpose single- or multi-chip processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or, any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor also may be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. In some embodiments, particular processes and methods may be performed by circuitry that is specific to a given function. The memory (e.g., memory, memory unit, storage device) may include one or more devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, Flash memory, hard disk storage) for storing data and/or computer code for completing or facilitating the various processes, layers and modules described in the present disclosure. The memory may be or include volatile memory or non-volatile memory, and may include database components, object code components, script components, or any other type of information structure for supporting the various activities and information structures described in the present disclosure. According to an exemplary embodiment, the memory is communicably connected to the processor via a processing circuit and includes computer code for executing (e.g., by the processing circuit or the processor) the one or more processes described herein.

The present disclosure contemplates methods, systems and program products on any machine-readable media for accomplishing various operations. The embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented using existing computer processors, or by a special purpose computer processor for an appropriate system, incorporated for this or another purpose, or by a hardwired system. Embodiments within the scope of the present disclosure include program products comprising machine-readable media for carrying or having machine-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such machine-readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. By way of example, such machine-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to carry or store desired program code in the form of machine-executable instructions or data structures and which can be accessed by a general purpose or special purpose computer or other machine with a processor. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of machine-readable media. Machine-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data which cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing machines to perform a certain function or group of functions.

Although the figures and description may illustrate a specific order of method steps, the order of such steps may differ from what is depicted and described, unless specified differently above. In addition, two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence, unless specified differently above. Such variation may depend, for example, on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations of the described methods could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.

It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the vehicle 10 and the systems and components thereof as shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Additionally, any element disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein. Although only one example of an element from one embodiment that can be incorporated or utilized in another embodiment has been described above, it should be appreciated that other elements of the various embodiments may be incorporated or utilized with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein.

RETURN ASSIST SYSTEM FOR REFUSE VEHICLE

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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

Provisional Applications (1)