Multiple function landscaping system and method

• US 20080279663A1
• Filed: 05/11/2007
• Published: 11/13/2008
• Est. Priority Date: 05/11/2007
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Larry Alexander
• Original Assignee: Larry Alexander
• Inventors: Alexander, Larry
• Granted Patent: US 7,815,411 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 414/469
• CPC Class Codes: B60P 1/16 actuated by fluid-operated mechanisms
• CPC Class Codes: B60P 1/283 Elements of tipping devices

Abstract

A multiple function landscaping method and system is capable of operating with or without a dump box. A lower lift, crane or hoist can be utilized by itself or in combination with an upper positioned dump box. The novel usage of a single truck bed to achieve such functions as tree delivery, debris removal and top soil delivery enables landscaping to be more efficiently and economically performed, thus providing a significant advantage to the environment.

Claims

1. A method of landscaping by modifying a truck bed to perform multiple landscaping functions, said method comprising the steps of:

a) providing a lift or hoist element which includes a lower section having a hydraulic drive and an upper pivoting section which is utilized to both unload new tree products and to load debris to be removed from an area to be landscaped,

b) providing a removable dump box unit which is mounted on top of said upper pivoting section and which is driven into a dumping position by the upper pivoting section,

c) adding or removing said dump box as needed for a particular landscaping function.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein said upper pivoting section includes two parallel arms and a cross-arm having a winch attached thereto, said winch being utilized to install and remove the dump box.

3. The method of claim 2 wherein said dump box includes a pair of lateral side rail elements which rest on the parallel arms of the upper pivoting section of the lift or hoist.

4. An apparatus for landscaping used in combination with the bed of a truck comprising:

a) a lift or hoist unit having a lower drive portion mounted to the truck bed and an upper pivoting section which moves trees and debris as desired in a landscaping operation,

b) a dump box which is attached to the upper pivoting section,

c) said dump box being removable from said hoist or lift as desired.

5. The apparatus of claim 4 wherein the upper pivoting section of the hoist or lift includes a cross-arm portion having a winch attached thereto, the apparatus further including a line attached to said winch and further attached to said dump box.