Bedding bucket

Abstract

A bucket for use in collecting and moving objects and material includes a rectangular container with opposing side walls and an end wall forming an open top for receiving debris. Forward walls extend forward from the side walls to a low front wall forming an open front for scooping up debris into the bucket. The side walls are adapted to connect to a standard coupler used with skid steer vehicles. The upper portion of the side walls are adapted to be grasped by a grappler for movement and manipulation by an attached excavator.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 779,410, filed Mar. 28, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.BACKGROUND1. Field of the Disclosed Subject Matter

[0002] The disclosed subject matter relates to excavating equipment, in particular, a container used with a skid steer vehicle or a vehicle with a boom arm and a grapple.2. Background

[0003] Container for moving objects or material are typically open at one end and are used with motorized vehicles. Traditional containers are limited in use due to their construction, or are limited to use with specific motorized vehicles.

[0004] Motorized vehicles with boom arms, such as excavators, have various attachments that can be used at the end of the boom arm to perform work. For example, an attachment includes a grapple attached to the end of a boom arm for grasping objects or material, but are limited in their ability to grasp and move organic or particulate material.

[0005] There is a need for a container that can be connected to and moved by various motorized vehicles for collecting and moving objects and material.SUMMARY

[0006] The disclosure includes a container that can be connected to and moved by a vehicle, such as a skid steer vehicle or an excavator with a boom arm and grapple attachment with opposing movable arms. The container, in the form of a large steel bucket assembly, is formed from metal to include a bottom wall extending from a rear end to a front end, with side walls extending upward from the bottom wall spaced apart to form an upwardly-open space. A wall encloses the rear of the bucket to form a rectangular box with an open top and an open front opposite the rear wall.

[0007] The exterior of the side walls includes an upper engagement portion for engaging an arm of the grapple attachment and part of a coupler of the skid steer vehicle. The upper engagement portion includes an upper plate and a lower plate below the upper plate. The upper plate extends along the side wall projecting upward and outward away from the side wall, and the lower plate extends along the side wall projecting downward and outward away from the side wall. The upper plate may include adjustable, spaced apart ears for limiting movement of the grapple arms when they grasp the container. The exterior of the side walls includes a lower portion forming adjacent first and second slots for engaging part of the coupler of the skid steer vehicle.

[0008] The front of the bucket has a scoop-like feature. The side walls form forward portions extending upward from the bottom wall, with the forward portions extending forward and downward from the side wall to a front wall. The front wall extends upward and forward from the bottom wall forming an engagement lip.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The present disclosed subject matter is described herein with reference to the following drawing figures by way of example and are not limited by the accompanying figures for which like references indicate like elements, and with greater emphasis being placed on clarity rather than scale:

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bedding bucket attached to a skid steer vehicle embodying principles of the disclosed subject matter.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view from above of the bedding bucket.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view from below of the bedding bucket.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of the bedding bucket.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of the bedding bucket.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a perspective view from above of the bedding bucket grasped by grapple arms of a grapple.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a partial rear view of the bedding bucket grasped by the grapple arms of the grapple with the rear wall removed for illustrative purposes.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, up, down, top, bottom, front, back, rear, right, left, forward, rearward, upward, and downward refer to the disclosed subject matter as orientated in the view being referred to, or in reference to such terminology designating the characteristics of an assembly as described in this description. Such terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

[0018] Referring to FIGS. 1-7, an implementation of a bedding bucket or bucket 100 is shown and described for use with motorized vehicles, such as a skid steer vehicle 202, or an excavator using a grapple 256. And excavator and grapple system, such as the system described in U.S. Non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 19 / 289,957, filed Aug. 4, 2025, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2026 / 0035879 on Feb. 5, 2026, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, use an excavator with a grappler attached to the end of a boom arm to grasp objects.

[0019] Referring to FIGS. 2-5, the bucket 100 is formed from metal with the various components welded together to form the overall open top 180 and open front 182 configuration. The bucket 100 has a first side wall 102 and opposite second side wall 152 extending upward from a bottom wall 130 forming a generally flat rectangular floor. The bottom wall 130 extends forward from a rear end 196 to a front end 198. A front wall 234 extends forward and upward from the bottom wall 130, terminating at a front lip 148. The first side wall 102 forms a first forward portion 126 extending upward from the bottom wall 130 forming an upper flange 128, with the first forward portion 126 extending forward and downward from the first side wall 102 to the front wall 234. The second side wall 152 forms a second forward portion 176, with the second forward portion 176 extending upward from the bottom wall 130 forming an upper flange 178 extending forward and downward from the second side wall 152 to the front wall 134. A rear wall 132 extends upward from the bottom wall 130 and between the first side wall 102 and second side wall 152 at the rear end 196. The bottom wall 130, first side wall 102, second side wall 152, and rear wall 132 form an upwardly-open rear container portion or box with an open top 180. The upper front ends of the first side wall 102 and second side wall 152 are joined by a cross member 142, adding strength to the bucket 100 when it is grasped by the grapple 256, and keeping the first side wall 102 and second side wall 152 properly spaced apart, retaining the integrity of the bucket compartment when the forces of the grapple 256 are applied to the bucket 100. The angled first forward portion 126 and angled second forward portion 176 form an open front 182, with the bucket 100 overall forming a holding area.

[0020] At the front end 198, the open front 182 is defined by the first forward portion 126 and second forward portion 176 that taper to the front wall 134 from the associated side walls 102, 152. The front wall 134 extends upward and forward from the bottom wall 130 forming an engagement lip 148. The open front 182 allows the bucket 100 to be used for excavating objects and material and retaining the objects and material within the bucket 100. The flat bottom wall 130 allows the bucket 100 to be picked up and moved by a motorizes vehicle, such as the skid steer vehicle 202 as shown in FIG. 1. Portions of the bucket 100 may be reinforced with additional exterior layers of metal welded to the bucket 100. For example a first front reinforcing plate 192 formed about the first forward portion 126, bottom wall 130, and front wall 134 and a second front reinforcing plate 194 formed about the second forward portion 176, bottom wall 130, and front wall 134 form an additional layer of material that contacts the ground, objects, and material.

[0021] Each of the first side wall 102 and second side wall 152 form an engagement interface for connecting a skid steer vehicle 202 or the grapple 256. Various skid-steer vehicles 202 and their associated couplers and mechanical features and functions are commonly known in the art. The skid steer vehicle 202 includes arms 204 that are raised and lowered by an actuator, such as a hydraulic actuator. A coupler 206 connected to the ends of the arms 204 pivots relative to the arms at the front of the skid steer vehicle. The coupler 206 facilitates attachment of the bucket 100 to the skid steer vehicle 202. The upper edge of the coupler 206 is received by a lower engagement portion formed at an upper portion of each side wall, and engaging members at the lower edge of the coupler 206 engage slots at a lower portion of the side walls to securely connect the skid steer vehicle 202 to the bucket 100.

[0022] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, the upper portion 104 of the exterior of the first side wall 102 includes first upper engagement feature in the form of a first upper plate 106 extending along the length of the side wall 102 and projects upward and outward away from the side wall 102 forming an upper engagement portion 108 for engaging an arm of the grapple 256. A first lower engagement feature in the form of a first lower plate 110 disposed below the upper plate 106 extends along the length of the side wall 102 and projects downward and outward away from the side wall 102 forming a lower engagement portion 112 for engaging the upper edge of the coupler 206. The upper plate 106 and lower plate 110 can be secured to the side wall 102 by welding, or the upper plate 106 and lower plate 110 can be formed by one piece of metal with a mid-wall in between with the assembly welded to the side wall 102, bolted thereto, or attached by other known means.

[0023] The lower portion 116 of the exterior of the first side wall 102 includes a lower plate 118 extending along the length of the first side wall 102 and projecting downward and outward away from the first side wall 102 forming a first slot 120 adjacent a second slot 122 for engagement with members at the lower edge of the coupler 206. The lower plate 118 also serves to reinforce the bucket 100 and minimize damage to the bucket 100 when in use. A first side support member 136 adjacent the first forward portion 126 extends from the lower portion 116 upward toward the upper portion 104 adding rigidity to the bucket 100. The first side support member 136 forms a first ear 138 at the top. A second ear 140 adjacent the first ear 138 prevents lateral movement of the grapple arm when it engages the upper engagement portion 108.

[0024] Referring to FIGS. 2-3, an upper portion 154 of the exterior of the second side wall 152 includes a second upper engagement feature in the form of a second upper plate 156 extending along the length of the side wall 152 and projects upward and outward away from the side wall 152 forming an upper engagement portion 158 for engaging an arm of the grapple 256. A second lower engagement feature in the form of a second lower plate 160 disposed below the upper plate 156 extends along the length of the side wall 152 and projects downward and outward away from the side wall 152 forming a lower engagement portion 162 for engaging the upper edge of the coupler 206. The lower portion 166 of the exterior of the second side wall 152 includes a lower plate 168 extending along the length of the second side wall 152 and projecting downward and outward away from the second side wall 152 forming a first slot 170 adjacent a second slot 172 for engagement with members at the lower edge of the coupler 206. The lower plate 168 also serves to reinforce the bucket 100 and minimize damage to the bucket 100 when in use. A second side support member 186 adjacent the second forward portion 176 extends from the lower portion 166 upward toward the upper portion 154 adding rigidity to the bucket 100. The second side support member 186 forms a third ear 188 at the top. A fourth ear 190 adjacent the third ear 188 prevents lateral movement of the grapple arm when it engages the upper engagement portion 158.

[0025] Referring to FIGS. 6-7, the grapple 256 is shown with a primary or first grapple arm 264 and a secondary or second grapple arm 266 grasping the bucket 100. A typical grapple 256 includes a first mounting structure 258 for securing the grapple 256 to the first or “free” end of a boom arm (not shown) of an excavator. Various excavators and their associated boom arms and mechanical features and functions are commonly known in the art. The first mounting structure 258 is rotatably mounted by a rotation assembly 260 to a second mounting structure 262. The grapple arms and associated hydraulic cylinders are pivotally mounted to the second mounting structure 262. Opposing first grapple arm 264 and second grapple arm 266 are pivotally mounted in opposing relation to the second mounting structure 262 for movement towards and away from each other. A first hydraulic cylinder 268 attached to the first grapple arm 264 and the second mounting structure 262 extends or retracts to rotate the first grapple arm 264 towards and away from the second grapple arm 266, and a second hydraulic cylinder 270 attached to the second grapple arm 266 and the second mounting structure 262 extends or retracts to rotate the second grapple arm 266 towards and away from the first grapple arm 264. The first grapple arm 264 includes a first gripping edge 272 for engaging an upper engagement portion at a side wall of the bucket 100 and the second grapple arm 266 includes a second gripping edge 274 for engaging an upper engagement portion at the opposite side wall of the bucket 100.

[0026] Referring to FIGS. 6-7, the first gripping edge 272 is shown engaging the exterior of the upper plate 106 at the first side wall 102, and the second gripping edge 274 is shown engaging the exterior of the upper plate 156 at the second side wall 152. In the implementation as shown, upper plate 106, and upper plate 156 extend a distance from the associated side wall, preventing the grapple arms from slipping off of the bucket 100 when the bucket 100 is lived and maneuvered by the excavator. Uneven loading of the bucket 100, or shifting loads in the bucket 100 during transport can cause the bucket to roll or pitch after it is lifted by the excavator, or when moved by the excavator. The first ear 138 and second ear 140 aid in keeping the first grapple arm 264 laterally positioned at the first side wall 102, and the third ear 188 and fourth ear 190 aids in keeping the second grapple arm 266 laterally positioned at the second side wall 152 were the bucket 100 to pitch or roll during movement. The upper plates and ears allow the grapple arms to easily grasp and securely engage the bucket 100 without the use of tools, and allow an excavator to manipulate the bucket 100 and use the open front 182 to scoop up material or objects. In an implementation, the second ear 140 is positioned along the first side wall 102 and the fourth ear 190 is positioned along the second side wall 152 whereby the grapple arms lift and maneuver the bucket 100 with the load generally at the center of gravity of the load of the bucket 100 or at the center of gravity of the bucket 100.

[0027] In an implementation, the first ear 138, second ear 140, third ear 188, and fourth ear 190 are adjustably attached to the side walls by known means to create an adjustable upper engagement portion at each side wall to accommodate gripping edges of varying widths, or bucket 100 loads. For example, the ears can be slidably mounted on the upper portion upper plates and fixed in position by a set bolt, or they may be selectively bolted to the upper plates or side wall through bold holes placed along the upper plate or side wall.

[0028] In use, a skid steer vehicle 202 moves into position with its coupler 206 parallel to the first side wall 102 or second side wall 152, and the upper portion of the coupler 206 forms an edge that is inserted under the lower plate 110 or lower plate 160, and first and second engaging members at a lower portion of the coupler 206 engage the respective slots in the associated lower plate 118 or lower plate 160 and the skid steer vehicle 202 is securely attached to the bucket 100. In FIG. 1, the skid steer vehicle 202 is coupled to the second side wall 152. The hydraulic cylinders supporting the arms 204 then extend to move the bucket 100 upward, and the hydraulic cylinders retract to move the bucket 100 downward.

[0029] The grapple 256 is positioned over the open top 180 of the bucket 100 and the rotation assembly 260 is actuated to orientate the first grapple arm 264 for engagement with an upper engagement portion of a side wall, and the second grapple arm 264 for engagement with the upper engagement portion of the opposite side wall. The first and second hydraulic cylinders 268, 270 are retracted to open up the grapple 256 to allow the first and second gripping edges 272, 274 to move downward past the upper edges of the first and second side walls 102, 152. The hydraulic cylinders are extended to engage the gripping edges with the upper plates 106, 156. The first gripping edge 272 engages the upper plate of a side wall, and the second gripping edge 274 engages the upper plate of the opposite side wall. In FIGS. 6-7, the first gripping edge 272 at the end of the first grapple arm 264 engages the lower plate 110, and the second gripping edge 274 of the second grapple arm 266 engages the lower plate 160. The position of the first and second grapple arms 264, 266 can be locked in place by a clamping hydraulic valve in fluid communication with the hydraulic cylinders. The clamping hydraulic valve prevents extension or retraction of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 268, 270, and keeps the grapple 256 secured to the bucket 100 as the excavator lifts and move the bucket 100.

[0030] The grapple 256 adapted and skid steer vehicle 202 adapted connection points on the first side wall 102 and second side wall 152 allow the bucket 100 to be used for work, such as excavation and trenching, in various directions since a skid steer vehicle 202 can connect to the bucket 100 from more than one side, and an articulated grapple 256 that can be rotated about the first mounting structure 258 by a rotation assembly 260 is capable of three-dimension movement, manipulation, and orientation of the bucket 100 by an excavator.

[0031] It is understood that the present subject matter may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this subject matter will be thorough and complete and will convey the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Indeed, the subject matter is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents of these embodiments, which are included within the scope and spirit of the subject matter as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, in the detailed description of the present subject matter, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present subject matter. However, it will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art that the present subject matter may be practiced without such specific details.

[0032] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,”“an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0033] The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. The aspects of the disclosure herein were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

[0034] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0017]Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, up, down, top, bottom, front, back, rear, right, left, forward, rearward, upward, and downward refer to the disclosed subject matter as orientated in the view being referred to, or in reference to such terminology designating the characteristics of an assembly as described in this description. Such terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

[0018]Referring to FIGS. 1-7, an implementation of a bedding bucket or bucket 100 is shown and described for use with motorized vehicles, such as a skid steer vehicle 202, or an excavator using a grapple 256. And excavator and grapple system, such as the system described in U.S. Non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 19 / 289,957, filed Aug. 4, 2025, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2026 / 0035879 on Feb. 5, 2026, which is...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 779,410, filed Mar. 28, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.BACKGROUND1. Field of the Disclosed Subject Matter

[0002] The disclosed subject matter relates to excavating equipment, in particular, a container used with a skid steer vehicle or a vehicle with a boom arm and a grapple.2. Background

[0003] Container for moving objects or material are typically open at one end and are used with motorized vehicles. Traditional containers are limited in use due to their construction, or are limited to use with specific motorized vehicles.

[0004] Motorized vehicles with boom arms, such as excavators, have various attachments that can be used at the end of the boom arm to perform work. For example, an attachment includes a grapple attached to the end of a boom arm for grasping objects or material, but are limited in their ability to grasp and move organic or particulate material.

[0005] There is a need for a container that can be connected to and moved by various motorized vehicles for collecting and moving objects and material.SUMMARY

[0006] The disclosure includes a container that can be connected to and moved by a vehicle, such as a skid steer vehicle or an excavator with a boom arm and grapple attachment with opposing movable arms. The container, in the form of a large steel bucket assembly, is formed from metal to include a bottom wall extending from a rear end to a front end, with side walls extending upward from the bottom wall spaced apart to form an upwardly-open space. A wall encloses the rear of the bucket to form a rectangular box with an open top and an open front opposite the rear wall.

[0007] The exterior of the side walls includes an upper engagement portion for engaging an arm of the grapple attachment and part of a coupler of the skid steer vehicle. The upper engagement portion includes an upper plate and a lower plate below the upper plate. The upper plate extends along the side wall projecting upward and outward away from the side wall, and the lower plate extends along the side wall projecting downward and outward away from the side wall. The upper plate may include adjustable, spaced apart ears for limiting movement of the grapple arms when they grasp the container. The exterior of the side walls includes a lower portion forming adjacent first and second slots for engaging part of the coupler of the skid steer vehicle.

[0008] The front of the bucket has a scoop-like feature. The side walls form forward portions extending upward from the bottom wall, with the forward portions extending forward and downward from the side wall to a front wall. The front wall extends upward and forward from the bottom wall forming an engagement lip.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The present disclosed subject matter is described herein with reference to the following drawing figures by way of example and are not limited by the accompanying figures for which like references indicate like elements, and with greater emphasis being placed on clarity rather than scale:

[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bedding bucket attached to a skid steer vehicle embodying principles of the disclosed subject matter.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view from above of the bedding bucket.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a perspective view from below of the bedding bucket.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of the bedding bucket.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a rear elevation view of the bedding bucket.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a perspective view from above of the bedding bucket grasped by grapple arms of a grapple.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a partial rear view of the bedding bucket grasped by the grapple arms of the grapple with the rear wall removed for illustrative purposes.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, up, down, top, bottom, front, back, rear, right, left, forward, rearward, upward, and downward refer to the disclosed subject matter as orientated in the view being referred to, or in reference to such terminology designating the characteristics of an assembly as described in this description. Such terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

[0018] Referring to FIGS. 1-7, an implementation of a bedding bucket or bucket 100 is shown and described for use with motorized vehicles, such as a skid steer vehicle 202, or an excavator using a grapple 256. And excavator and grapple system, such as the system described in U.S. Non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 19 / 289,957, filed Aug. 4, 2025, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2026 / 0035879 on Feb. 5, 2026, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, use an excavator with a grappler attached to the end of a boom arm to grasp objects.

[0019] Referring to FIGS. 2-5, the bucket 100 is formed from metal with the various components welded together to form the overall open top 180 and open front 182 configuration. The bucket 100 has a first side wall 102 and opposite second side wall 152 extending upward from a bottom wall 130 forming a generally flat rectangular floor. The bottom wall 130 extends forward from a rear end 196 to a front end 198. A front wall 234 extends forward and upward from the bottom wall 130, terminating at a front lip 148. The first side wall 102 forms a first forward portion 126 extending upward from the bottom wall 130 forming an upper flange 128, with the first forward portion 126 extending forward and downward from the first side wall 102 to the front wall 234. The second side wall 152 forms a second forward portion 176, with the second forward portion 176 extending upward from the bottom wall 130 forming an upper flange 178 extending forward and downward from the second side wall 152 to the front wall 134. A rear wall 132 extends upward from the bottom wall 130 and between the first side wall 102 and second side wall 152 at the rear end 196. The bottom wall 130, first side wall 102, second side wall 152, and rear wall 132 form an upwardly-open rear container portion or box with an open top 180. The upper front ends of the first side wall 102 and second side wall 152 are joined by a cross member 142, adding strength to the bucket 100 when it is grasped by the grapple 256, and keeping the first side wall 102 and second side wall 152 properly spaced apart, retaining the integrity of the bucket compartment when the forces of the grapple 256 are applied to the bucket 100. The angled first forward portion 126 and angled second forward portion 176 form an open front 182, with the bucket 100 overall forming a holding area.

[0020] At the front end 198, the open front 182 is defined by the first forward portion 126 and second forward portion 176 that taper to the front wall 134 from the associated side walls 102, 152. The front wall 134 extends upward and forward from the bottom wall 130 forming an engagement lip 148. The open front 182 allows the bucket 100 to be used for excavating objects and material and retaining the objects and material within the bucket 100. The flat bottom wall 130 allows the bucket 100 to be picked up and moved by a motorizes vehicle, such as the skid steer vehicle 202 as shown in FIG. 1. Portions of the bucket 100 may be reinforced with additional exterior layers of metal welded to the bucket 100. For example a first front reinforcing plate 192 formed about the first forward portion 126, bottom wall 130, and front wall 134 and a second front reinforcing plate 194 formed about the second forward portion 176, bottom wall 130, and front wall 134 form an additional layer of material that contacts the ground, objects, and material.

[0021] Each of the first side wall 102 and second side wall 152 form an engagement interface for connecting a skid steer vehicle 202 or the grapple 256. Various skid-steer vehicles 202 and their associated couplers and mechanical features and functions are commonly known in the art. The skid steer vehicle 202 includes arms 204 that are raised and lowered by an actuator, such as a hydraulic actuator. A coupler 206 connected to the ends of the arms 204 pivots relative to the arms at the front of the skid steer vehicle. The coupler 206 facilitates attachment of the bucket 100 to the skid steer vehicle 202. The upper edge of the coupler 206 is received by a lower engagement portion formed at an upper portion of each side wall, and engaging members at the lower edge of the coupler 206 engage slots at a lower portion of the side walls to securely connect the skid steer vehicle 202 to the bucket 100.

[0022] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 4, the upper portion 104 of the exterior of the first side wall 102 includes first upper engagement feature in the form of a first upper plate 106 extending along the length of the side wall 102 and projects upward and outward away from the side wall 102 forming an upper engagement portion 108 for engaging an arm of the grapple 256. A first lower engagement feature in the form of a first lower plate 110 disposed below the upper plate 106 extends along the length of the side wall 102 and projects downward and outward away from the side wall 102 forming a lower engagement portion 112 for engaging the upper edge of the coupler 206. The upper plate 106 and lower plate 110 can be secured to the side wall 102 by welding, or the upper plate 106 and lower plate 110 can be formed by one piece of metal with a mid-wall in between with the assembly welded to the side wall 102, bolted thereto, or attached by other known means.

[0023] The lower portion 116 of the exterior of the first side wall 102 includes a lower plate 118 extending along the length of the first side wall 102 and projecting downward and outward away from the first side wall 102 forming a first slot 120 adjacent a second slot 122 for engagement with members at the lower edge of the coupler 206. The lower plate 118 also serves to reinforce the bucket 100 and minimize damage to the bucket 100 when in use. A first side support member 136 adjacent the first forward portion 126 extends from the lower portion 116 upward toward the upper portion 104 adding rigidity to the bucket 100. The first side support member 136 forms a first ear 138 at the top. A second ear 140 adjacent the first ear 138 prevents lateral movement of the grapple arm when it engages the upper engagement portion 108.

[0024] Referring to FIGS. 2-3, an upper portion 154 of the exterior of the second side wall 152 includes a second upper engagement feature in the form of a second upper plate 156 extending along the length of the side wall 152 and projects upward and outward away from the side wall 152 forming an upper engagement portion 158 for engaging an arm of the grapple 256. A second lower engagement feature in the form of a second lower plate 160 disposed below the upper plate 156 extends along the length of the side wall 152 and projects downward and outward away from the side wall 152 forming a lower engagement portion 162 for engaging the upper edge of the coupler 206. The lower portion 166 of the exterior of the second side wall 152 includes a lower plate 168 extending along the length of the second side wall 152 and projecting downward and outward away from the second side wall 152 forming a first slot 170 adjacent a second slot 172 for engagement with members at the lower edge of the coupler 206. The lower plate 168 also serves to reinforce the bucket 100 and minimize damage to the bucket 100 when in use. A second side support member 186 adjacent the second forward portion 176 extends from the lower portion 166 upward toward the upper portion 154 adding rigidity to the bucket 100. The second side support member 186 forms a third ear 188 at the top. A fourth ear 190 adjacent the third ear 188 prevents lateral movement of the grapple arm when it engages the upper engagement portion 158.

[0025] Referring to FIGS. 6-7, the grapple 256 is shown with a primary or first grapple arm 264 and a secondary or second grapple arm 266 grasping the bucket 100. A typical grapple 256 includes a first mounting structure 258 for securing the grapple 256 to the first or “free” end of a boom arm (not shown) of an excavator. Various excavators and their associated boom arms and mechanical features and functions are commonly known in the art. The first mounting structure 258 is rotatably mounted by a rotation assembly 260 to a second mounting structure 262. The grapple arms and associated hydraulic cylinders are pivotally mounted to the second mounting structure 262. Opposing first grapple arm 264 and second grapple arm 266 are pivotally mounted in opposing relation to the second mounting structure 262 for movement towards and away from each other. A first hydraulic cylinder 268 attached to the first grapple arm 264 and the second mounting structure 262 extends or retracts to rotate the first grapple arm 264 towards and away from the second grapple arm 266, and a second hydraulic cylinder 270 attached to the second grapple arm 266 and the second mounting structure 262 extends or retracts to rotate the second grapple arm 266 towards and away from the first grapple arm 264. The first grapple arm 264 includes a first gripping edge 272 for engaging an upper engagement portion at a side wall of the bucket 100 and the second grapple arm 266 includes a second gripping edge 274 for engaging an upper engagement portion at the opposite side wall of the bucket 100.

[0026] Referring to FIGS. 6-7, the first gripping edge 272 is shown engaging the exterior of the upper plate 106 at the first side wall 102, and the second gripping edge 274 is shown engaging the exterior of the upper plate 156 at the second side wall 152. In the implementation as shown, upper plate 106, and upper plate 156 extend a distance from the associated side wall, preventing the grapple arms from slipping off of the bucket 100 when the bucket 100 is lived and maneuvered by the excavator. Uneven loading of the bucket 100, or shifting loads in the bucket 100 during transport can cause the bucket to roll or pitch after it is lifted by the excavator, or when moved by the excavator. The first ear 138 and second ear 140 aid in keeping the first grapple arm 264 laterally positioned at the first side wall 102, and the third ear 188 and fourth ear 190 aids in keeping the second grapple arm 266 laterally positioned at the second side wall 152 were the bucket 100 to pitch or roll during movement. The upper plates and ears allow the grapple arms to easily grasp and securely engage the bucket 100 without the use of tools, and allow an excavator to manipulate the bucket 100 and use the open front 182 to scoop up material or objects. In an implementation, the second ear 140 is positioned along the first side wall 102 and the fourth ear 190 is positioned along the second side wall 152 whereby the grapple arms lift and maneuver the bucket 100 with the load generally at the center of gravity of the load of the bucket 100 or at the center of gravity of the bucket 100.

[0027] In an implementation, the first ear 138, second ear 140, third ear 188, and fourth ear 190 are adjustably attached to the side walls by known means to create an adjustable upper engagement portion at each side wall to accommodate gripping edges of varying widths, or bucket 100 loads. For example, the ears can be slidably mounted on the upper portion upper plates and fixed in position by a set bolt, or they may be selectively bolted to the upper plates or side wall through bold holes placed along the upper plate or side wall.

[0028] In use, a skid steer vehicle 202 moves into position with its coupler 206 parallel to the first side wall 102 or second side wall 152, and the upper portion of the coupler 206 forms an edge that is inserted under the lower plate 110 or lower plate 160, and first and second engaging members at a lower portion of the coupler 206 engage the respective slots in the associated lower plate 118 or lower plate 160 and the skid steer vehicle 202 is securely attached to the bucket 100. In FIG. 1, the skid steer vehicle 202 is coupled to the second side wall 152. The hydraulic cylinders supporting the arms 204 then extend to move the bucket 100 upward, and the hydraulic cylinders retract to move the bucket 100 downward.

[0029] The grapple 256 is positioned over the open top 180 of the bucket 100 and the rotation assembly 260 is actuated to orientate the first grapple arm 264 for engagement with an upper engagement portion of a side wall, and the second grapple arm 264 for engagement with the upper engagement portion of the opposite side wall. The first and second hydraulic cylinders 268, 270 are retracted to open up the grapple 256 to allow the first and second gripping edges 272, 274 to move downward past the upper edges of the first and second side walls 102, 152. The hydraulic cylinders are extended to engage the gripping edges with the upper plates 106, 156. The first gripping edge 272 engages the upper plate of a side wall, and the second gripping edge 274 engages the upper plate of the opposite side wall. In FIGS. 6-7, the first gripping edge 272 at the end of the first grapple arm 264 engages the lower plate 110, and the second gripping edge 274 of the second grapple arm 266 engages the lower plate 160. The position of the first and second grapple arms 264, 266 can be locked in place by a clamping hydraulic valve in fluid communication with the hydraulic cylinders. The clamping hydraulic valve prevents extension or retraction of the first and second hydraulic cylinders 268, 270, and keeps the grapple 256 secured to the bucket 100 as the excavator lifts and move the bucket 100.

[0030] The grapple 256 adapted and skid steer vehicle 202 adapted connection points on the first side wall 102 and second side wall 152 allow the bucket 100 to be used for work, such as excavation and trenching, in various directions since a skid steer vehicle 202 can connect to the bucket 100 from more than one side, and an articulated grapple 256 that can be rotated about the first mounting structure 258 by a rotation assembly 260 is capable of three-dimension movement, manipulation, and orientation of the bucket 100 by an excavator.

[0031] It is understood that the present subject matter may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this subject matter will be thorough and complete and will convey the disclosure to those skilled in the art. Indeed, the subject matter is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents of these embodiments, which are included within the scope and spirit of the subject matter as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. Furthermore, in the detailed description of the present subject matter, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present subject matter. However, it will be clear to those of ordinary skill in the art that the present subject matter may be practiced without such specific details.

[0032] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,”“an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and / or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0033] The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. The aspects of the disclosure herein were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

[0034] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0017]Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience in reference only and will not be limiting. For example, up, down, top, bottom, front, back, rear, right, left, forward, rearward, upward, and downward refer to the disclosed subject matter as orientated in the view being referred to, or in reference to such terminology designating the characteristics of an assembly as described in this description. Such terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

[0018]Referring to FIGS. 1-7, an implementation of a bedding bucket or bucket 100 is shown and described for use with motorized vehicles, such as a skid steer vehicle 202, or an excavator using a grapple 256. And excavator and grapple system, such as the system described in U.S. Non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 19 / 289,957, filed Aug. 4, 2025, published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2026 / 0035879 on Feb. 5, 2026, which is...

Claims

1. A bucket for use with a grapple attachment, the grapple attachment includes a mounting structure, primary and secondary grapple arms pivotally mounted to the mounting structure in an opposing relationship for movement towards and away from each other, with the primary grapple arm forming a gripping edge and the secondary grapple arm forming a gripping edge, the bucket comprising:a bottom wall extending from a rear end to a front end;a first side wall extending upward from the bottom wall, and a second side wall extending upward from the bottom wall spaced from the first side wall;a rear wall at the rear end connected to the bottom wall, first side wall, and second side wall;wherein the bottom wall, first side wall, second side wall, and rear wall form a rectangular box forming an open top and an open front opposite the rear wall;a first upper engagement portion forming a first upper plate at an upper portion of the first side wall for engagement with the primary grapple arm; anda second upper engagement portion forming a second upper plate at an upper portion of the second side wall for engagement with the secondary grapple arm.

2. The bucket of claim 1, further comprising:a first ear connected to the first upper plate and a second ear connected to the first upper plate spaced apart from the first ear to restrict lateral movement of the primary grapple arm; anda third ear connected to the second upper plate and a fourth ear connected to the second upper plate spaced apart from the third ear to restrict lateral movement of the secondary grapple arm.

3. The bucket of claim 2, wherein:the first ear and the second ear are adjustably positionable along the first upper plate; andthe third ear and the fourth ear are adjustably positionable along the second upper plate.

4. The bucket of claim 1, further comprising:wherein the first side wall forms a first forward portion extending upward from the bottom wall, with the first forward portion extending forward and downward from the first side wall to a front wall;wherein the second side all forms a second forward portion, with the second forward portion extending upward from the bottom wall, with the second forward portion extending forward and downward from the second side wall to the front; andwherein the front wall extends upward and forward from the bottom wall forming an engagement lip.

5. The bucket of claim 1, further comprising:wherein the upper portion of the first side wall further comprises:a first lower engagement feature; anda first lower portion of the first side wall forming adjacent first and second slots.

6. The bucket of claim 5, further comprising:wherein the first lower engagement feature comprises a first lower plate disposed below the first upper plate, the first lower plate extending along the first side wall projecting downward and outward away from the first side wall.

7. The bucket of claim 5, further comprising:wherein the first and second slots are formed by a plate extending along the first side wall projecting downward and outward away from the first side wall.

8. A bucket for use with a coupler of a skid steer vehicle, the coupler includes an upper edge and first and second engaging members, the bucket comprising:a bottom wall extending from a rear end to a front end;a first side wall extending upward from the bottom wall, and a second side wall extending upward from the bottom wall spaced from the first side wall;a rear wall at the rear end connected to the bottom wall, first side wall, and second side wall;wherein the bottom wall, first side wall, second side wall, and rear wall form a rectangular box forming an open top and an open front opposite the rear wall;a first upper portion of the first side wall forming a first lower engagement feature for engagement with the upper edge of the coupler; anda first lower portion of the first side wall forming adjacent first and second slots for engagement with the first and second engaging members.

9. The bucket of claim 8, wherein the first lower engagement feature is a plate extending along the first side wall and projecting downward and outward away from the first side wall.

10. The bucket of claim 8, wherein the first and second slots are formed by a plate extending along the first side wall projecting downward and outward away from the first side wall.

11. The bucket of claim 8, further comprising:wherein the first side wall forms a first forward portion extending upward from the bottom wall, with the first forward portion extending forward and downward from the first side wall to a front wall;wherein the second side wall forms a second forward portion, with the second forward portion extending upward from the bottom wall, with the second forward portion extending forward and downward from the second side wall to the front; andwherein the front wall extends upward and forward from the bottom wall forming an engagement lip.

12. The bucket of claim 8, further comprising:wherein the first upper portion forms a first upper plate, the first upper plate extending along the first side wall projecting upward and outward away from the first side wall; anda second upper portion of the second side wall forms a second upper plate, the second upper plate extending along the second side wall projecting upward and outward away from the second side wall.

13. A bucket, comprising:a bottom wall extending from a rear end to a front end;a first side wall extending upward from the bottom wall, and a second side wall extending upward from the bottom wall spaced from the first side wall;a rear wall at the rear end connected to the bottom wall, first side wall, and second side wall;wherein the bottom wall, first side wall, second side wall, and rear wall form a rectangular box forming an open top and an open front opposite the rear wall;a first upper portion of the first side wall, comprising:a first upper engagement portion, comprising:a first upper plate extending along the first side wall projecting upward and outward away from the first side wall; anda first lower plate disposed below the first upper plate, the first lower plate extending along the first side wall projecting downward and outward away from the first side wall;a first ear connected to the first upper plate and a second ear connected to the first upper plate spaced apart from the first ear;a first lower portion of the first side wall forming adjacent first and second slots;wherein the first side wall forms a first forward portion extending upward from the bottom wall, with the first forward portion extending forward and downward from the first side wall to a front wall;wherein the second side wall forms a second forward portion, with the second forward portion extending upward from the bottom wall, with the second forward portion extending forward and downward from the second side wall to the front; andwherein the front wall extends upward and forward from the bottom wall forming an engagement lip.

14. The bucket of claim 13, wherein the first and second slots are formed by a plate extending along the first side wall projecting downward and outward away from the first side wall.

Images