Four-way material dumping mechanism

Abstract

A mechanism, comprises a cargo box; a plurality of linear actuators; and a plurality of hinges. The cargo box comprises a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side. Each one of the plurality of linear actuators comprises a first end and a second end such that the first ends are connected to a vehicle, and the second ends are connected to the cargo box. Each one of the plurality of hinges comprises a first part and a second part, the first parts are connected to the first, the second, the third, and the fourth sides of the cargo box, respectively, and the second parts are connected to the vehicle at corresponding locations, opposite the first, the second, the third, and the fourth sides of the cargo box, respectively.

Description

FOUR- WAY MATERIAL DUMPING MECHANISMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority from IR Patent Application Ser. No. 140250140003002784, filed on July 16, 2023, entitled “FOUR- WAY MATERIAL DUMPING MECHANISM” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to mechanisms for discharging materials in multiple directions, and more particularly to mechanisms mounted on vehicles and used for unloading cargo in four different directions.BACKGROUND

[0003] Conventional vehicles, such as trucks, trailers, rail cars, etc., that facilitate the transportation of cargo and materials for unloading at specific locations, typically provide a single rear unloading mechanism. Such single-direction mechanisms may be restrictive, specially when there are spatial limitations. Therefore, there is need for mechanisms to overcome shortcomings of traditional dump trucks, and more particularly there is need for mechanisms which are capable of discharging and unloading materials and cargo in multiple directions.SUMMARY

[0004] This summary is intended to provide an overview of the subject matter of one or more exemplary embodiments, and is not intended to identify essential elements or key elements of the subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to determine the scope of the claimed implementations. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of one or more aspects in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. Theproper scope of one or more exemplary embodiments may be ascertained from the claims set forth below in view of the detailed description below and the drawings.

[0005] In one general aspect, the present disclosure may describe an exemplary mechanism. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mechanism may comprise an exemplary cargo box, a plurality of exemplary linear actuators, and a plurality of exemplary hinges. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary cargo box may comprise an exemplary first side, an exemplary second side, an exemplary third side, and an exemplary fourth side.

[0006] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of exemplary linear actuators may comprise an exemplary first linear actuator, an exemplary second linear actuator, an exemplary third linear actuator, and an exemplary fourth linear actuator. In an exemplary embodiment, each one of an exemplary first, an exemplary second, an exemplary third, and an exemplary fourth linear actuators may comprise an exemplary first end and an exemplary second end. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary first ends may be connected to an exemplary vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary second ends of an exemplary first and an exemplary second linear actuators may be connected to an exemplary first side of an exemplary cargo box. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary second ends of an exemplary third and an exemplary fourth linear actuators may be connected to an exemplary second side of an exemplary cargo box.

[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of exemplary hinges may comprise an exemplary first hinge, an exemplary second hinge, an exemplary third hinge, and an exemplary fourth hinge. In an exemplary embodiment, each one of an exemplary first, an exemplary second, an exemplary third, and an exemplary fourth hinges may comprise an exemplary first part and an exemplary second part. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary first parts may be connected to an exemplary first, an exemplary second, an exemplary third, and an exemplaryfourth sides of an exemplary cargo box, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary second parts may be connected to an exemplary vehicle at corresponding exemplary locations, opposite an exemplary first, an exemplary second, an exemplary third, and an exemplary fourth sides of an exemplary cargo box, respectively.

[0008] In an exemplary embodiment, when an exemplary cargo box is tilted from an exemplary first side, an exemplary first part of an exemplary first hinge may be engaged with an exemplary second part of an exemplary first hinge, and an exemplary first, and an exemplary second linear actuators may be retracted, and an exemplary third and an exemplary fourth linear actuators may be extended. In an exemplary embodiment, when an exemplary cargo box is tilted from an exemplary second side, an exemplary first part of an exemplary second hinge may be engaged with an exemplary second part of an exemplary second hinge, and an exemplary first, and an exemplary second linear actuators may be extended, and an exemplary third and an exemplary fourth linear actuators may be retracted.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, when an exemplary cargo box is tilted from an exemplary third side, an exemplary first part of an exemplary third hinge may be engaged with an exemplary second part of an exemplary third hinge, and an exemplary first, and an exemplary third linear actuators may be retracted, and an exemplary second and an exemplary fourth linear actuators may be extended. In an exemplary embodiment, when an exemplary cargo box is tilted from an exemplary fourth side, an exemplary first part of an exemplary fourth hinge may be engaged with an exemplary second part of an exemplary fourth hinge, and an exemplary first, and an exemplary third linear actuators may be extended, and an exemplary second and an exemplary fourth linear actuators may be retracted.

[0010] This Summary may introduce a number of concepts in a simplified format; the concepts are further disclosed within the “Detailed Description” section. This Summary is notintended to configure essential / key features of the claimed subject matter, nor is intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The novel features which are believed to be characteristic of the present disclosure, as to its structure, organization, use and method of operation, together with further objectives and advantages thereof, will be better understood from the following drawings in which a presently preferred embodiment of the present disclosure will now be illustrated by way of example. It is expressly understood, however, that the drawings are for the purpose of illustration and description only and are not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described by way of example in association with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0012] FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary dumping vehicle, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. IB illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary dumping vehicle during unloading exemplary material from a rear end of an exemplary cargo box, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0014] FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary dumping vehicle during discharging exemplary cargo on a side of the exemplary dumping vehicle, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary dumping mechanism mounted on a vehicle, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary link connected to a first part of an exemplary hinge, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary hinge utilized in an exemplary dumping mechanism, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 4 illustrates an enlarged view of an exemplary connecting joint disposed between an exemplary linear actuator and an exemplary dumping vehicle, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0019] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary control and processing system used in an exemplary dumping mechanism, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth by way of examples to provide a thorough understanding of the relevant teachings related to the exemplary embodiments. However, it should be apparent that the present teachings may be practiced without such details. In other instances, well known methods, procedures, components, and / or circuitry have been described at a relatively high-level, without detail, in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the present teachings.

[0021] The following detailed description is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the methods and devices disclosed in one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required to practice the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Descriptions of specific exemplary embodiments are provided only as representative examples. Various modifications to the exemplary implementations will be plain to one skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to otherimplementations and applications without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the implementations shown, but is to be accorded the widest possible scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0022] Disclosed herein is an exemplary mechanism utilized for discharging exemplary materials or cargoes from an exemplary vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mechanism may be capable of unloading exemplary materials in four different directions. In an exemplary embodiment, dumping materials and cargo such as construction debris, gravel, or sand in different directions is important because there is usually a limited space and multidirectional dumping makes a circumstance to operate freely.

[0023] Referring now to the figures, FIG. 1A illustrates a perspective view 100 of an exemplary dumping vehicle 106, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. IB illustrates a perspective view 102 of an exemplary dumping vehicle 106 during unloading exemplary material 120 from a rear end of an exemplary cargo box 110, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 1C illustrates a perspective view 104 of an exemplary dumping vehicle 106 during discharging exemplary cargo on a side of the exemplary dumping vehicle 106, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIG. 1A, cargo box 110 may be mounted on vehicle 106. In an exemplary embodiment, cargo box 110 may be connected to vehicle 106 through an exemplary mechanism which enables vehicle 106 to discharge materials in cargo box 110 in multiple directions. In an exemplary embodiment, vehicle 106 may discharge loads and materials disposed in cargo box 110 in four different directions (112, 114, 116, 118). In an exemplary embodiment, vehicle 106 may unload materials rightward (i.e., from first side 112 of cargo box 110), or leftward (i.e., from secondside 114 of cargo box 110), or forward (i.e., from third side 116 of cargo box 110), or backward (i.e., from fourth side 118 of cargo box 110).

[0025] In an exemplary embodiment, with further reference to FIGs. 1B-C, an exemplary mechanism through which cargo box 110 is connected to vehicle 106 may comprise a plurality of linear actuators (122, 124, 126, 128). In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of linear actuators may comprise first linear actuator 122, second linear actuator 124, third linear actuator 126, and fourth linear actuator 128. In an exemplary embodiment, each one of first 122, second 124, third 126, and fourth linear actuators 128 may comprise an exemplary first end (e.g., 140, 142, 144, 146) and an exemplary second end (e.g., 148). In an exemplary embodiment, exemplary first ends (e.g., 140, 142, 144, 146) of linear actuators (122, 124, 126, 128) may be connected to vehicle 106. In an exemplary embodiment, second ends 148 of first 122 and second linear actuators 124 may be connected to first side 112 of cargo box 110. In an exemplary embodiment, second ends of third 126 and fourth linear actuators 128 may be connected to second side 114 of cargo box 110.

[0026] In an exemplary embodiment, linear actuators (122, 124, 126, 128) may comprise any actuators which are capable of producing linear motion, such as hydraulic or pneumatic jacks. In an exemplary embodiment, for supplying appropriate pressure in linear actuators (122, 124, 126, 128) several hydraulic lines (e.g., hydraulic lines 130) may be used. In an exemplary embodiment, each linear actuator (122, 124, 126, 128) may be connected to a pair of lines (e.g., hydraulic lines 130) and a control valve (e.g., control valves 132, 134) in order to operate based on commands received form control systems (e.g., control systems 108a, 108b).

[0027] In an exemplary embodiment, various sensors may be utilized in vehicle 106 to help control and manage discharging process. In an exemplary embodiment, first angle sensor 136 may be attached to cargo box 110. In an exemplary embodiment, first angle sensor 136may be disposed at the center and bottom of cargo box 110. In an exemplary embodiment, first angle sensor 136 may detect angular distance between cargo box 110 and vehicle 106. In an exemplary embodiment, first angle sensor 136 may comprise hall effect sensors.

[0028] In an exemplary embodiment, second angle sensor 138 may be mounted on vehicle 106. In an exemplary embodiment, second angle sensor 138 may be attached to the top and the center of vehicle 106. In an exemplary embodiment, second angle sensor 138 may detect angular distance between vehicle 106 and the ground. In an exemplary embodiment, second angle sensor 138 may comprise hall effect sensors.

[0029] FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view 200 of an exemplary dumping mechanism mounted on a vehicle 106, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view 202 of an exemplary link 208 connected to a first part 210 of an exemplary hinge, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary mechanism through which cargo box 110 is moved and is connected to vehicle 106 may further comprise a plurality of hinges. In an exemplary embodiment, a plurality of hinges may comprise first hinge 212, second hinge 214, third hinge 216, and fourth hinge 218. In an exemplary embodiment, each one of first 212, second 214, third 216, and fourth hinges 218 may comprise a first part (e.g., first part 210) and a second part (e.g., second part 220). In an exemplary embodiment, first parts (e.g., first part 210) of first 212, second 214, third 216, and fourth hinges 218 may be connected to first 112, second 114, third 116, and fourth sides 118 of cargo box 110, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, first parts (e.g., first part 210) of first 212, second 214, third 216, and fourth hinges 218 may be connected to first 112, second 114, third 116, and fourth sides 118 of cargo box 110, respectively, via links (e.g., links 204, 206, 208). In an exemplary embodiment, second parts (e.g., second part 220) of first 212, second 214, third 216, and fourth hinges 218may be connected to vehicle 106 at corresponding locations, opposite first 112, second 114, third 116, and fourth sides 118 of cargo box 110, respectively.

[0030] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view 300 of an exemplary hinge 302 utilized in an exemplary dumping mechanism, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, hinge 302 may comprise a pair of connecting nuts (e.g., connecting nut 310) which connect first part 304 of hinge 302 to cargo box 110 and allow cargo box 110 to turn around exemplary hinges (e.g., hinge 302). In an exemplary embodiment, first part 304 may be fastened to cargo box 110 through connecting nuts (e.g., connecting nut 310) and corresponding bolts (e.g., bolt 312). In an exemplary embodiment, connecting nuts (e.g., connecting nut 310) may comprise protrusion 3101 fixed to base 3102. In an exemplary embodiment, protrusion 3101 may have a cylindrical shape. In an exemplary embodiment, base 3102 may have a conical shape.

[0031] In an exemplary embodiment, first part 304 of hinge 302 may be half-cylindrical and second part 306 of hinge 302 may be cylindrical. In an exemplary embodiment, hinge 302 may further comprise a plurality of slots (e.g., slot 314). In an exemplary embodiment, slots (e.g., slot 314) may be disposed in second part 306 of hinge 302. In an exemplary embodiment, second part 306 of hinge 302 may be connected to vehicle 106 via at least a pair of supports (e.g., support 308). In an exemplary embodiment, slots (e.g., slot 314) may be configured to receive connecting nuts (e.g., connecting nut 310). In an exemplary embodiment, slots (e.g., slot 314) may be configured to receive bases (e.g., base 3102) of connecting nuts (e.g., connecting nut 310).

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, slots (e.g., slot 314) may comprise a rectangular hole 3141 which is tangent to circular hole 3142. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary shape of circular holes (e.g., circular hole 3142) may be complement of an exemplary shape ofbases (e.g., conical base 3102) of connecting nuts (e.g., connecting nut 310). In an exemplary embodiment, during material discharging process from first 112, second 114, third 116, or fourth 118 side of cargo box 110, only corresponding hinges (i.e., hinge 212, 214, 216, 218, respectively) may be contributed in the process.

[0033] In an exemplary embodiment, during material unloading from first side 112 of cargo box 110, first part 210 of first hinge 212 may be engaged with second part 220 of first hinge 212. In an exemplary embodiment, during material unloading from first side 112 of cargo box 110, exemplary connecting nuts of first part 210 may slide along corresponding slots in second part 220, which allows cargo box 110 to turn around first hinge 212. In an exemplary embodiment, when cargo box 110 is tilted from first side 112, first part 210 of first hinge 212 may be engaged with second part 220 of first hinge 212, and first 122, and second linear actuators 124 may be retracted, and third 126 and fourth linear actuators 128 may be extended. In an exemplary embodiment, retracted linear actuator may refer to a status in which linear actuator is shorter than when it is extended. In an exemplary embodiment, retracted linear actuator may refer to a situation in which fluid (e.g., oil, hydraulic, air, etc.,) is discharged totally or partially from linear actuator that makes linear actuator to retract from its initial position, while extended linear actuator may refer to a situation in which fluid is introduced into linear actuator that makes linear actuator extend from its initial position.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, during material unloading from second side 114 of cargo box 110, first part of second hinge 214 may be engaged with second part of second hinge 214. In an exemplary embodiment, during material unloading from second side 114 of cargo box 110, exemplary connecting nuts of second hinge 214 may slide along corresponding slots, which allows cargo box 110 to turn around second hinge 214. In an exemplary embodiment, when cargo box 110 is tilted from second side 114, first part of second hinge 214 may beengaged with second part of second hinge 214, and first 122, and second linear actuators 124 may be extended, and third 126 and fourth linear actuators 128 may be retracted.

[0035] In an exemplary embodiment, during material unloading from third side 116 of cargo box 110, first part of third hinge 216 may be engaged with second part of third hinge 216. In an exemplary embodiment, during material unloading from third side 116 of cargo box 110, exemplary connecting nuts of third hinge 216 may slide along corresponding slots, which allows cargo box 110 to turn around third hinge 216. In an exemplary embodiment, when cargo box 110 is tilted from third side 116, first part of third hinge 216 may be engaged with second part of third hinge 216, and first 122, and third linear actuators 126 may be retracted, and second 124 and fourth linear actuators 128 may be extended.

[0036] In an exemplary embodiment, during material unloading from fourth side 118 of cargo box 110, first part of fourth hinge 218 may be engaged with second part of fourth hinge 218. In an exemplary embodiment, during material unloading from fourth side 118 of cargo box 110, exemplary connecting nuts of fourth hinge 218 may slide along corresponding slots, which allows cargo box 110 to turn around fourth hinge 218. In an exemplary embodiment, when cargo box 110 is tilted from fourth side 118, first part of fourth hinge 218 may be engaged with second part of fourth hinge 218, and first 122, and third linear actuators 126 may be extended, and second 124 and fourth linear actuators 128 may be retracted.

[0037] FIG. 4 illustrates an enlarged view 400 of an exemplary connecting joint 402 disposed between an exemplary linear actuator 122 and an exemplary dumping vehicle 106, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, linear actuators (e.g., first linear actuator 122) may be connected to vehicle 106 via joints or couplings having at least three rotational degrees of freedom, such as universal joints, ball and socket joints, etc. In an exemplary embodiment, linear actuators (e.g., first linearactuator 122) may be connected to cargo box 110 via joints or couplings having at least three rotational degrees of freedom, such as universal joints, ball and socket joints, etc.

[0038] In an exemplary embodiment, in further detail with respect to FIG. 4, first end of first linear actuator 122 may be connected to vehicle 106 through universal joint 402. In an exemplary embodiment, several weight sensors (e.g., weight sensors 404, 406, 408, 410) may be disposed at each connection between first ends of linear actuators (122, 124, 126, 128) and vehicle 106 to detect and transmit the amount of load which is exerted to linear actuators (122, 124, 126, 128). In an exemplary embodiment, there are at least four weight sensors (e.g., weight sensors 404, 406, 408, 410) at each connection between first ends of linear actuators (122, 124, 126, 128) and vehicle 106. In an exemplary embodiment, weight sensors may comprise load cells, or strain gauges.

[0039] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary control and processing system 500 used in an exemplary dumping mechanism, consistent with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an exemplary embodiment, different data may be captured from various sensors to manage operation of linear actuators (122, 124, 126, 128). In an exemplary embodiment, at first end of each linear actuator (122, 124, 126, 128), on vehicle 106, a plurality of weight sensors 510 may be embedded. In an exemplary embodiment, weight sensors SW1, SW2, . . SW16 may detect the weight of materials loaded in cargo box or may detect forces exerted on each linear actuator (122, 124, 126, 128). In an exemplary embodiment, every four weight sensors (e.g., SW1, SW2, SW3, and SW4) is associated with a linear actuator (e.g., first linear actuator 122). In an exemplary embodiment, weight sensors 502, 504, 506, and 508 may be associated with first 122, second 124, third 126, and fourth 128 linear actuators, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, data from weight sensors 502, 504, 506, and 508 may be transmitted to control and processing unit 512.

[0040] In an exemplary embodiment, before loading or unloading materials onto or from cargo box 110, pressure, temperature, and volume of fluid in hydraulic circuit of linear actuators may be checked. In an exemplary embodiment, pressure sensor 514 may determine fluid pressure in hydraulic circuit of linear actuators and may send received data to control and processing unit 512. In an exemplary embodiment, pressure sensor 514 may comprise piezoelectric sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, temperature sensor 516 may receive temperature of fluid in hydraulic circuit of linear actuators. In an exemplary embodiment, fluid level sensor 518 may detect the volume of fluid in an exemplary reservoir, which is used in hydraulic circuit of linear actuators.

[0041] In an exemplary embodiment, angular distance between cargo box 110 and vehicle 106 may be measured by first angle sensor 520. In an exemplary embodiment, angular distance between vehicle 106 and the ground may be measured by second angle sensor 522. In an exemplary embodiment, data received by first 520 and second 522 angle sensors may be sent to control and processing unit 512. In an exemplary embodiment, based on various data received from different sensors (e.g., weight sensors 502, 504, 506, 508, pressure sensor 514, temperature sensor 516, fluid level sensor 518, first 520, and second angle sensors 522, etc.) control valves 524, 526 may regulate fluid flow in hydraulic circuit of linear actuators, thereby controlling linear actuators (528, 530, 532, 534) and movements of cargo box 110.

[0042] In an exemplary embodiment, for loading materials into cargo box 110 specific prerequisites must be fulfilled. In an exemplary embodiment, appropriate prerequisites for loading materials into cargo box 110 may comprise: second angle sensor 522 mustn’t exceed about S total weight detected by weight sensors must be less than 100% of the allowed weight; and the difference between each pair of weight sensors 502, 504, 506, 508 must be less than about 20% of the allowed weight. In an exemplary embodiment, if any prerequisites orrequirements are not satisfied, an exemplary warning action may be performed through external devices 536. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary warning action may comprise at least one selected from the group of triggering an exemplary audible alarm, switching on an exemplary lighting module, sending massages to clients, etc.

[0043] In an exemplary embodiment, for discharging materials out of cargo box 110 particular requirements must be complied with. In an exemplary embodiment, particular requirements for unloading materials from cargo box 110 may comprise: second angle sensor 522 mustn’t exceed about 3°; the difference between each pair of weight sensors 502, 504, 506, 508 must be less than about 20% of the allowed weight; fluid level in reservoir must be greater than about 60% of reservoir’s capacity; fluid temperature must be between about -2(f and about 50; and fluid pressure must be greater than 100 bars. In an exemplary embodiment, if any prerequisites or requirements are not satisfied, an exemplary warning action may be performed through external devices 536. In an exemplary embodiment, an exemplary warning action may comprise at least one selected from the group of triggering an exemplary audible alarm, switching on an exemplary lighting module, sending massages to clients, etc.

[0044] While the foregoing has described what are considered to be the best mode and / or other examples, it is understood that various modifications may be made therein and that the subject matter disclosed herein may be implemented in various forms and examples, and that the teachings may be applied in numerous applications, only some of which have been described herein. It is intended by the following claims to claim any and all applications, modifications and variations that fall within the true scope of the present teachings.

[0045] Unless otherwise stated, all measurements, values, ratings, positions, magnitudes, sizes, and other specifications that are set forth in this specification, including in the claims that follow, are approximate, not exact. They are intended to have a reasonable range that isconsistent with the functions to which they relate and with what is customary in the art to which they pertain.

[0046] The scope of protection is limited solely by the claims that now follow. That scope is intended and should be interpreted to be as broad as is consistent with the ordinary meaning of the language that is used in the claims when interpreted in light of this specification and the prosecution history that follows and to encompass all structural and functional equivalents. Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirement of Sections 101, 102, or 103 of the Patent Act, nor should they be interpreted in such a way. Any unintended embracement of such subject matter is hereby disclaimed.

[0047] Except as stated immediately above, nothing that has been stated or illustrated is intended or should be interpreted to cause a dedication of any component, step, feature, object, benefit, advantage, or equivalent to the public, regardless of whether it is or is not recited in the claims.

[0048] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study except where specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. Relational terms such as first and second and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. An element proceeded by “a” or “an” does not, without further constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0049] It will be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions with respect to their corresponding respective areas of inquiry and study, except where specific meanings have otherwise been setforth herein. Relational terms such as “first” and “second” and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.

[0050] The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it may be seen that various features are grouped together in various implementations. This is for purposes of streamlining the disclosure, and is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed implementations require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed implementation. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

[0051] While various implementations have been described, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more implementations and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the implementations. Although many possible combinations of features are shown in the accompanying figures and discussed in this detailed description, many other combinations of the disclosed features are possible. Any feature of any implementation may be used in combination with or substituted for any other feature or element in any other implementation unless specifically restricted. Therefore, it will be understood that any of the features shown and / or discussed in the present disclosure may be implemented together in any suitable combination. Accordingly, the implementations are not to be restricted except in light of theattached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A mechanism, comprising: a cargo box comprising a first side, a second side, a third side, and a fourth side; a plurality of linear actuators comprising a first linear actuator, a second linear actuator, a third linear actuator, and a fourth linear actuator, wherein each one of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth linear actuators comprises a first end and a second end such that the first ends are connected to a vehicle, and the second ends of the first and the second linear actuators are connected to the first side of the cargo box, and the second ends of the third and the fourth linear actuators are connected to the second side of the cargo box; and a plurality of hinges comprising a first hinge, a second hinge, a third hinge, and a fourth hinge, wherein each one of the first, the second, the third, and the fourth hinges comprises a first part and a second part, the first parts are connected to the first, the second, the third, and the fourth sides of the cargo box, respectively, and the second parts are connected to the vehicle at corresponding locations, opposite the first, the second, the third, and the fourth sides of the cargo box, respectively, wherein when the cargo box is tilted from the first side, the first part of the first hinge is engaged with the second part of the first hinge, and the first, and the second linear actuators are retracted, and the third and the fourth linear actuators are extended; when the cargo box is tilted from the second side, the first part of the second hinge is engaged with the second part of the second hinge, and the first, and the second linear actuators are extended, and the third and the fourth linear actuators are retracted; when the cargo box is tilted from the third side, the first part of the third hinge is engaged with the second part of the third hinge, and the first, and the third linear actuators are retracted, and the second and the fourth linear actuators are extended; andwhen the cargo box is tilted from the fourth side, the first part of the fourth hinge is engaged with the second part of the fourth hinge, and the first, and the third linear actuators are extended, and the second and the fourth linear actuators are retracted.

2. The mechanism of claim 1, wherein the plurality of hinges further comprises a plurality of connecting nuts attached to the first parts of the plurality of hinges.

3. The mechanism of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of connecting nuts comprises a conical base.

4. The mechanism of claim 3, wherein the plurality of hinges further comprises a plurality of slots disposed in the second parts of the plurality of hinges and configured to receive the conical base of the connecting nuts.

5. The mechanism of claim 2, wherein the plurality of hinges further comprises a plurality of slots disposed in the second parts of the plurality of hinges and configured to receive the connecting nuts.

6. The mechanism of claim 1, wherein the first parts of the plurality of hinges are half-cylindrical.

7. The mechanism of claim 6, wherein the second parts of the plurality of hinges are cylindrical.

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