Method of controlling loading dock equipment

Abstract

The control device for loading dock equipment (1) which is movable between a non-use position and a loading / unloading position, the dock comprising manually operated control means (4) for operating the equipment (3), comprises: - transmission means (7) arranged on the loading dock, - control means (9) arranged on the road vehicle (20) for transporting goods, - transmission means (10) arranged on the road vehicle for transporting goods (2), and - inhibition means. Figure for abstract: Fig 1

Description

Title of the invention: Method for controlling loading dock equipment

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of road vehicles for transporting goods, such as trucks, semi-trailers, trailers or carriers, and more particularly to a device for controlling equipment of a loading dock and an associated method.

[0002] Conventionally, a road vehicle for transporting goods is docked at a loading dock of a warehouse to load or unload goods contained in the road vehicle.

[0003] During these operations, a loader tranships the goods between the road vehicle and the warehouse.

[0004] In order to prevent the loader from falling between the loading dock and the vehicle during loading and unloading operations, it is necessary to prevent any possible movement of the road vehicle.

[0005] For this purpose, it is possible to actuate means for immobilizing the road vehicle when a curtain of the loading dock has been raised, or when a gangway has been lowered, for the purpose of these goods loading / unloading operations. For further details, reference may be made, for example, to patent application FR 3 111 340 (Chéreau).

[0006] However, with this prior solution, the loading dock curtain rises, or the gangway lowers, regardless of the presence of a vehicle docked at the dock.

[0007] Therefore, an operator can fall from the loading dock if no vehicle is docked at the dock.

[0008] The present invention aims to remedy this drawback.

[0009] The subject of the invention is a method for controlling loading dock equipment which is movable between a non-use position and a loading / unloading position, the loading dock comprising manually operated control means for operating the equipment.

[0010] The method comprises:

[0011] - a step of transmitting an activation signal by transmission means arranged on the loading dock when manually actuating the control means to control the movement of the equipment from the non-use position to the loading / unloading position,

[0012] - a step of actuating means for immobilizing a vehicle in position road goods transport vehicle docked at the loading dock, the immobilization means being activated by control means upon receipt of the activation signal by said control means, the immobilization means and the control means being arranged on the road goods transport vehicle,

[0013] - a step of transmitting a locking signal by transmitting means arranged on the road goods transport vehicle when said road vehicle is immobilized in position by the immobilization means, and

[0014] - a step of moving the equipment to the loading / unloading position loading only after receipt of the locking signal by receiving means located on the loading dock.

[0015] With the method of the invention, the movement of the equipment to its loading / unloading position is carried out only if a road goods transport vehicle is present in front of the dock and if this vehicle is immobilized. Thus, the probability of the operator falling from the dock is greatly reduced.

[0016] In another embodiment, the actuation of the immobilization means of the road goods transport vehicle comprises the activation of a parking braking device of said vehicle.

[0017] Preferably, the activation of the parking braking device of the road goods transport vehicle comprises the depressurization of a spring chamber of said device to actuate the brakes of the vehicle.

[0018] In another embodiment, the actuation of the immobilization means of the road goods transport vehicle comprises the emission of an anti-start signal, the anti-start signal being configured to switch off a propulsion engine of the road goods transport vehicle or prevent the starting of said engine.

[0019] Preferably, the anti-start signal comprises a predetermined direct voltage which is generated by the control means and which is transmitted to a control unit of the propulsion engine of the road goods transport vehicle.

[0020] In yet another embodiment, the actuation of the immobilization means of the road goods transport vehicle comprises the emission of a braking signal, the braking signal being configured to activate a braking device of the road goods transport vehicle or prevent the deactivation of said braking device.

[0021] Preferably, the vehicle braking signal comprises a predetermined direct voltage which is generated by the control means and which is transmitted to a control unit of the braking device of the road goods transport vehicle.

[0022] In another embodiment, the actuation of the immobilization means of the road goods transport vehicle comprises both the emission of the signal braking and the emission of the anti-theft signal.

[0023] Advantageously, the activation signal comprises an electromagnetic activation signal and the locking signal comprises an electromagnetic locking signal. For example, the activation signal and the locking signal may each comprise a radio signal.

[0024] Alternatively, it is possible to provide other types of signals than electromagnetic signals. For example, the activation signal and the locking signal may each comprise a light signal originating for example from lasers.

[0025] Preferably, the transmission means arranged on the loading dock comprise a radio frequency transmitter, and the control means comprise a radio frequency receiver, the transmission of the electromagnetic activation signal comprising the transmission of the electromagnetic activation signal by the radio frequency transmitter upon manual actuation of the control means, and the reception of the electromagnetic activation signal comprising the reception of the activation signal by the radio frequency receiver.

[0026] In an alternative embodiment, the transmission means arranged on the loading dock comprise a radio frequency identification transmitter, and the control means comprise a radio frequency identification badge and a radio frequency identification reader synchronized with said badge, the transmission of the electromagnetic activation signal comprising the transmission of the electromagnetic activation signal by the radio frequency identification transmitter upon manual actuation of the control means, and the reception of the electromagnetic activation signal comprising the transmission of a coded signal by the radio frequency identification badge powered by the electromagnetic activation signal and the reception of the activation signal by the radio frequency identification reader.

[0027] In one embodiment, the loading dock equipment comprises a curtain for closing access to the movable loading dock between an open loading / unloading position and a closed, lowered, non-use position.

[0028] In another embodiment, the loading dock equipment comprises a loading bridge movable between a lowered horizontal loading / unloading position and a raised non-use position.

[0029] Advantageously, the step of moving the equipment to the loading / unloading position is carried out only after receipt of the locking signal by the receiving means arranged on the loading dock, and after receipt of a location signal of the road goods transport vehicle emitted by location means and representative of a predetermined loading / unloading position of said vehicle relative to the loading dock.

[0030] This further limits the risk of the operator falling between the rear of the vehicle and the dock.

[0031] The location means may comprise at least one contactor between the loading dock and rear protective buffers of the road vehicle, the location signal being delivered when the rear protective buffers are in contact with the loading dock.

[0032] Alternatively or in combination, the location means may comprise at least one distance sensor arranged on the loading dock and capable of measuring a distance between said dock and the road goods transport vehicle, the location signal being delivered when the measured distance is less than a predetermined threshold value.

[0033] Alternatively or in combination, the location means may comprise at least one reversing radar arranged on the road goods transport vehicle and capable of measuring a distance between the loading dock and said vehicle, the location signal being delivered when the measured distance is less than a predetermined threshold value.

[0034] The invention also relates to a device for controlling loading dock equipment which is movable between a non-use position and a loading / unloading position, the dock comprising manually operated control means for operating the equipment, the device comprising:

[0035] - transmission means arranged on the loading dock and configured to emit an activation signal when the control means are manually operated, and

[0036] - control means arranged on the road transport vehicle and configured to activate means for immobilizing the road goods transport vehicle in position upon receipt of the activation signal,

[0037] - transmission means arranged on the road goods transport vehicle and configured to emit a locking signal when the road goods transport vehicle is immobilized in position by the immobilizing means, and

[0038] - inhibition means arranged on the loading dock to render inoperative, in the absence of the locking signal, manual actuation of the control means to prevent the equipment from moving from the non-use position to the loading / unloading position.

[0039] Advantageously, the inhibition means comprise an electronic control unit provided with means for transmitting the activation signal and means for receiving the locking signal, the control unit being capable of delivering a control signal for controlling the movement of the equipment from the non-position use towards the loading / unloading position only in the presence of said locking signal.

[0040] Preferably, the immobilization means comprise a parking braking device for the vehicle.

[0041] Advantageously, the vehicle parking braking device comprises a spring chamber configured to actuate the vehicle brakes, the control means being configured to depressurize the spring chamber.

[0042] Preferably, the immobilization means comprise a control unit of the road goods transport vehicle configured to switch off a propulsion engine of the road goods transport vehicle or prevent the starting of said engine upon receipt of an anti-start signal.

[0043] Advantageously, the transmission means arranged on the loading dock comprise a radio frequency transmitter, and the control means comprise a radio frequency receiver, the radio transmitter being configured to transmit the electromagnetic activation signal upon manual actuation of the control means, and the radio frequency receiver being configured to activate the immobilization means upon receipt of the activation signal.

[0044] Preferably, the control device further comprises means for locating the road goods transport vehicle configured to generate a signal for locating the road goods transport vehicle and representative of a loading / unloading position of said vehicle relative to the loading dock, the inhibition means being configured to make manual actuation of the control means operative only after receiving the locking signal and after receiving a location signal.

[0045] The locating means may comprise at least one contactor configured to be arranged between the loading dock and rear protective buffers of the road vehicle, the contactor being configured to deliver the locating signal when the rear protective buffers are in contact against the unloading dock.

[0046] Alternatively or in combination, the location means may comprise at least one distance sensor configured to be arranged on the loading dock and capable of measuring the space between the dock and the road goods transport vehicle, the location means being configured to deliver the additional locking signal when the measured space is less than a predetermined threshold value.

[0047] Alternatively or in combination, the location means may comprise at least one reversing radar configured to be arranged on the road goods transport vehicle and capable of measuring the space between the loading dock and said vehicle, the location means being configured to deliver the location signal when the measured distance is less than a predetermined threshold value.

[0048] The invention also relates to a road goods transport vehicle comprising means for immobilizing the goods transport vehicle in position when docked at a loading dock, control means configured to activate the immobilizing means upon receipt of an activation signal, and transmission means configured to transmit a locking signal when the road goods transport vehicle is immobilized in position by the immobilizing means.

[0049] The present invention will be better understood upon studying the detailed description of embodiments taken as non-limiting examples and illustrated by the appended drawings, in which:

[0050] [Fig. 1] schematically illustrates a road vehicle for transporting goods when it is docked at a loading dock according to an example of the invention;

[0051] [Fig.2]

[0052] [Fig.3] are longitudinal sectional views of a spring vase of the vehicle of the [Fig.l];

[0053] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates an example of control means and means immobilization according to the invention;

[0054] [Fig.5] illustrates an example of implementation of a method for controlling a loading dock equipment according to the invention;

[0055] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates an example of the embodiment of a road vehicle of transport of goods when docking at the loading dock according to another example of the invention, and

[0056] [Fig.7] schematically illustrates another example of embodiment of the road vehicle of transporting goods when docking at the loading dock according to yet another example of the invention.

[0057] [Fig.l] schematically illustrates a road vehicle for transporting goods when said vehicle is docked at a loading dock 1.

[0058] The road vehicle here is a semi-trailer 2.

[0059] Alternatively, the road vehicle could be a trailer.

[0060] The loading dock 1 is equipped with a closing curtain 3 for access to the loading dock, which is movable between a lowered closed position and a raised open position for loading and unloading. The fully open or partially open position of the curtain 3 corresponds to a loading / unloading position, and the closed position of the curtain corresponds to a non-use position. In [Fig.l], the curtain 3 is in the closed position.

[0061] The loading dock 1 also comprises manually operated control means 4 for controlling the movement of the curtain 3. In a manner known per se, the curtain 3 is equipped with a drive means (not shown), for example an electric motor to enable its movement between the loading / unloading position and the non-use position, and vice versa. A control unit 6 is also provided for controlling the curtain drive means 3.

[0062] The control means 4 of the curtain may for example be provided on the inside of the warehouse equipped with the loading dock 1. The control means 4 may for example comprise a first push button 4a so that the user of the dock can control the opening of the curtain 3, and a second push button 4b to control the closing of the latter. The control means 4 may for example be in the form of a box embedded in a wall of the warehouse or in the form of a remote control.

[0063] As will be described in more detail below, the loading dock 1 comprises inhibiting means for rendering manual actuation of the control means 4 inoperative when the semi-trailer 2 is not immobilized. The inhibiting means are arranged on the loading dock 1.

[0064] As will also be described in more detail later, the inhibition means comprise a control unit 5 capable of delivering, after actuation of the control means 4, a control signal for moving the equipment 3 from the non-use position to the loading / unloading position only in the presence of a locking signal Sverr of the brakes of the semi-trailer. The control means 4 are connected to the control unit 5 by a connection not shown. The connection may for example be of the wired or radioelectric type or even be made via a communication bus.

[0065] In [Fig. 1], the semi-trailer 2 is shown in a docking position against rear protective buffers 20 of the loading dock 1.

[0066] The semi-trailer 2 comprises control means 9, means 10 for transmitting a locking signal Sverr, and immobilization means 11 in position controlled by the control means 9.

[0067] The transmission means 10 are capable of transmitting the locking signal Sverr when the semi-trailer 2 is immobilized in position by the immobilization means 11. The transmission means 10 are connected to the immobilization means 11.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the immobilization means 11 comprise a parking braking device comprising a spring chamber 12 with double diaphragms controlling the parking brake of the semi-trailer 2, compressed air bottles 13 connected to the spring chamber 12, brakes 14 actuated by the spring chamber 12, and a control circuit 15 for the spring chamber. The bottles 13 provide an autonomous pneumatic supply to the semi-trailer 2.

[0069] The control circuit 15 comprises a first control input 151 connected to the control means 9. The control circuit 15 also comprises a first pneumatic connection 152 connected to the bottles 13 via a parking brake valve 17, and a second pneumatic connection 153 connected to the spring chamber 12.

[0070] The brakes 14 make it possible to immobilize the semi-trailer 2 in position when they are actuated. The brakes 14 may be of the disc or drum type.

[0071] As illustrated in [Fig.2], the spring vase 12 comprises a casing 21 internally delimiting two chambers 22, 23.

[0072] The first chamber 22 comprises a first orifice 24 and the second chamber 23 comprises a second orifice 25 connected to the second pneumatic connection 153.

[0073] The spring chamber 12 comprises a control rod 26 actuating or deactivating the brakes 14, and connected respectively to a first diaphragm 27 arranged in the first chamber 22 and to a second diaphragm 28 arranged in the second chamber 23.

[0074] A first spring 29 is disposed between the first diaphragm 27 and the casing 21 inside the first chamber 22, and a second spring 30 is disposed between the second diaphragm 28 and the casing 21 inside the second chamber 23 such that when no pressure is applied through the second orifice 25, the second spring 30 compresses the first spring 29 so as to extend the rod 26 from the first chamber 22 to actuate the brakes 14 (parking brake mode), and such that when sufficient pressure is applied through the second orifice 25 and no pressure is applied through the first orifice 24, the rod 26 is retracted into the first chamber 22 to deactivate the brakes 14 as shown in [Fig. 3].

[0075] If sufficient pressure is applied through the first orifice 24 and sufficient pressure is not applied through the second orifice 25, the rod 26 actuates the brakes 14 (service brake mode).

[0076] Of course, the spring chamber 12 can be produced according to another design. The spring chamber 12 can for example comprise movable elements made of silicone or any other suitable material. Generally, the spring chamber comprises a first chamber for activating the service brake and a second chamber for activating the parking brake.

[0077] Referring again to [Fig.l], the electronic control unit 5 is provided with transmission means 7 capable of transmitting an activation signal Sact upon manual actuation of the control means 4 to control the opening of the curtain 3, and with reception means 8 capable of receiving the locking signal Sverr of the brakes of the semi-trailer transmitted by the transmission means 10.

[0078] The transmission means 7 and reception means 8 can be produced in the form of two separate boxes or a single box.

[0079] The electronic control unit 5 is connected to the control unit 6 of the curtain via a connection not shown. The connection may for example be of the wired or radioelectric type or even be made via a communication bus.

[0080] As will be described in more detail below, the control unit 5 is capable of transmitting, to the electronic control unit 6, the user's control orders to open the curtain 3 only if the semi-trailer 2 is blocked in position by the immobilization means 11.

[0081] The loading dock 1, or the semi-trailer 2, may preferably comprise location means capable of delivering a Schar-déchar location signal representative of a predetermined loading / unloading position of the semi-trailer 2 relative to the loading dock 1.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the location means comprise a contactor 19 arranged between the loading dock 1 and the rear protection buffers 20 of the semi-trailer 2.

[0083] The contactor 19 is for example interposed between the buffers 20 and the face of the platform 1 on which these buffers are mounted. The contactor 19 is capable of delivering the Schar-déchar location signal when the semi-trailer 2 is in contact against the buffers 20. The contactor 19 is connected to the electronic control unit 5 via a connection not shown. The connection can for example be of the wired or radioelectric type or even be made via a communication bus.

[0084] Alternatively, the location means could comprise a distance sensor arranged on the platform 1 and capable of measuring the distance separating the semi-trailer 2 from said platform.

[0085] In this case, the distance sensor is capable of delivering the Schar-dechar location signal when the measured distance is less than a predetermined threshold value. The predetermined threshold value is for example equal to 10 cm.

[0086] According to another variant, the location means may comprise a reversing radar arranged on the semi-trailer 2 and capable of measuring the space between the platform 1 and the semi-trailer 2. The location means are then capable of delivering the Schar-déchar location signal when the measured distance is less than the predetermined threshold value.

[0087] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a first embodiment of the control means 9.

[0088] The control means 9 are connected to the immobilization means 11 of the semi-trailer 2.

[0089] The control means 9 comprise a radio frequency receiver 32. The receiver 32 is connected to the control input 151 of the control circuit 15 of the spring chamber. The receiver 32 can, for example, be integrated into the floor or into one of the sides of the body of the semi-trailer 2.

[0090] The receiver 32 operates permanently so that the immobilization means 11 in the position of the semi-trailer 2 operate without the intervention of an operator.

[0091] The control circuit 15 of the spring cylinder comprises a first switch 33 connected to the control input 151 to be controlled by the receiver 32, a continuous electrical power supply 34, a second switch 35, a braking controller 36 controlling the second switch 35, an electro-pneumatic valve 37 and the spring cylinder 12.

[0092] The valve 17 is normally open so that the bottles 13 supply the electro-pneumatic valve 37.

[0093] The continuous electrical power source 34 comprises for example a dedicated battery which is incorporated in the semi-trailer 2. Alternatively, the continuous electrical power source 34 may be constituted by the refrigeration unit when the semi-trailer is a refrigerated semi-trailer.

[0094] The receiver 32 is for example powered by the source 34 so that the semi-trailer 2 does not require an external power source to actuate the immobilization means 11.

[0095] However, it remains possible to power the receiver 32 by a power source external to the semi-trailer 2, the external power source comprising for example a control console.

[0096] The braking controller 36 may for example be the control unit of the electronically controlled braking system of the semi-trailer 2. Alternatively, the controller 36 may be a control unit separate from that of the electronically controlled braking system.

[0097] The electropneumatic valve 37 comprises a first electrical power supply input Eel connected to a first terminal of the DC electrical power source 34 via the second switch 35, and a second electrical power supply input Ee2 connected to a second terminal of the DC electrical power source 34 via the first switch 33 so that when the first and second switches 33, 35 are closed, the electropneumatic valve 37 is powered by the DC electrical power source 34.

[0098] The electropneumatic valve 37 further comprises two pneumatic connections, a first pneumatic connection Epi being connected to the pneumatic inlet 152 and the second pneumatic connection Ep2 being connected to a first pneumatic connection Ecl of the braking controller 36.

[0099] The brake controller 36 further comprises a second connection pneumatic Ec2 connected to the second pneumatic connection 152.

[0100] The electropneumatic valve 37 may for example be a normally open solenoid valve when it is not powered by the continuous electrical power source 34.

[0101] When the driving speed of the semi-trailer 2 is lower than a predetermined threshold, for example 5 km / h, the braking controller 36 closes the second switch 35.

[0102] Thus when the semi-trailer 2 is docked at the quay 1, the second switch 35 is closed.

[0103] The first orifice 24 of the spring chamber 12 is connected to a service brake control circuit not shown.

[0104] We will now describe with reference to [Fig.5], the method of controlling the curtain 3 for closing access to the loading dock 1.

[0105] The curtain 3 is in the closed position in the non-use position preventing access to the loading dock 1.

[0106] The semi-trailer 2 is docked against the quay 1 in order to load or unload goods. The buffers 20 are in contact with the quay 1. The semi-trailer 2 is stationary.

[0107] An operator 38 actuates the control means 4 by pressing the first button 4a to control the opening of the curtain 3.

[0108] The control means 4 deliver a signal SI for controlling the opening of the curtain 3 which is transmitted to the control unit 5. At this stage, no control signal towards the control unit 6 is emitted by the control unit 5. Thus, the manual control order from the operator to open the curtain is not transmitted by the control unit 5 to the electronic control unit 6 and the position of the curtain 3 remains unchanged. The control unit 5 makes it possible to render this manual actuation of the control means 4 inoperative to the extent that the manual control order from the operator is not transmitted to the control unit 6.

[0109] Upon receipt by the control unit 5 of the signal SI emitted by the control means 4, the transmission means 7 emit the activation signal Sact which may for example be an electromagnetic signal such as a radio wave.

[0110] Upon receipt of the activation signal Sact, the radio frequency receiver 32 of the control means 9 closes the first switch 33 of the control circuit 15 of the spring vessel ([Fig.4]).

[0111] As the semi-trailer 2 is stationary, the second switch 35 of the control circuit 15 is already in the closed position.

[0112] The electropneumatic valve 37 is thus supplied by the source 34 so as to depressurize the second chamber 23 of the spring vessel 12. The electropneumatic valve 37 prevents the pressure supply to the controller 36 so that the second chamber 23 is no longer supplied by the bottles 13, the controller 36 depressurizing the second chamber 23.

[0113] As the second chamber 23 is depressurized, the second spring 30 ([Fig.2]) compresses the first spring 29 so as to move the rod 26 out of the first chamber 22 actuating the brakes 14, the brakes 14 immobilizing the semi-trailer 2 in position.

[0114] The transmission means 10 then transmit the locking signal Sverr. The transmission means 10 are for example connected to a contactor (not shown) of the immobilization means 11 which is activated when the second chamber 23 of the spring chamber is exhausted.

[0115] The Sverr locking signal can for example be an electromagnetic signal of the “bluetooth” type or a radio wave.

[0116] The locking signal Sverr is transmitted to the receiving means 8 of the control unit 5.

[0117] Furthermore, as the buffers 20 of the semi-trailer are in contact with the platform 1, the contactor 19 delivers the Schar-déchar location signal to the reception means 8 of the control unit 5.

[0118] Upon receipt of the locking signal Sverr and the location signal Schar-déchar, the control unit 5 emits a control signal S2 which is delivered to the control unit 6 to control the opening of the curtain 3.

[0119] The manual control order of the operator via the actuation of the control means 4 for the opening of the curtain 3 is transmitted to the control unit 6 only after receipt of the locking signal Sverr and the location signal Schar-déchar.

[0120] As indicated previously, it is possible not to provide the location means capable of delivering the Schar-déchar location signal. In this case, the manual control order from the operator for opening the curtain 3 is transmitted to the control unit 6 only after receiving the single locking signal Sverr.

[0121] At the end of the loading / unloading operations, when the operator 38 actuates the second button 4b of the control means 4 for closing the curtain 3, the control means 4 emit a signal S3 for controlling the closing of the curtain which is transmitted to the control unit 5.

[0122] Upon receipt of this signal S3, the control unit 5 emits a control signal S4 which is delivered to the control unit 6 to control the closing of the curtain 3.

[0123] Once the curtain 3 is in the closed position, the transmission means 7 stop transmitting the electromagnetic activation signal Sact.

[0124] As the radio frequency receiver 32 of the control means 9 no longer receives the Sact signal, the receiver 32 opens the first switch 33 of the control circuit 15 of the spring vase ([Fig.4]) Thus, the electropneumatic valve 37 is no longer supplied by the source 34.

[0125] As the electropneumatic valve 37 is no longer supplied, the pneumatic pressure delivered by the bottles 13 pressurizes the second chamber 23 of the spring vessel 12.

[0126] The force generated by the pressure applied to the second diaphragm 28 in the second chamber 23 is greater than the force generated by the second spring 30 so that the rod 26 enters the first chamber 22 deactivating the brakes 14.

[0127] The transmission power of the Sact signal by the transmission means 7 of the dock is configured so that only the radio frequency receiver 32 of the control means 9 of the semi-trailer 2 associated with this dock receives the electromagnetic activation signal Sact, in order to prevent reception of the Sact signal by the receiver of another road vehicle docked at a loading dock adjacent to the dock 1.

[0128] Similarly, the transmission power of the Sverr signal by the transmission means 10 arranged on the semi-trailer 2 is configured so that only the reception means 8 of the quay to which the semi-trailer is docked receive said signal.

[0129] As indicated previously, in the illustrated embodiment, the control means 9 comprise the radio frequency receiver 32.

[0130] In another embodiment, the control means 9 may comprise, as a replacement for the receiver 32, a radio frequency identification badge, and a radio frequency identification reader synchronized with this badge.

[0131] The electromagnetic activation signal Sact emitted by the transmission means 7 powers the radio frequency identification badge which emits a coded signal.

[0132] Upon receipt of the coded signal, the radio frequency identification reader closes the first switch 33 of the spring vessel control circuit.

[0133] In order to prevent interference between several loading docks arranged close to each other, the coded signal can be synchronized with the reader making it possible to prevent interference between said docks each equipped with their own transmission means 4.

[0134] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates a first example of embodiment of a road vehicle for transporting goods of the carrier type 40 docked at the loading dock 1. In [Fig.6], the elements identical to the example previously described bear the same references.

[0135] The carrier vehicle 40 comprises a propulsion engine 41, a control unit 42 of the engine, the control means 9 comprising the radio frequency receiver 32, the transmission means 10 and immobilization means 43 comprising the control unit 42.

[0136] The receiver 32 of the control means is connected to the control unit 42 so that when the activation signal Sact transmitted by the transmission means 7 is received by the receiver 32, the receiver 32 delivers an anti-start signal Sad to the control unit 42. The anti-start signal Sad comprises a predetermined voltage, for example a direct voltage of 12 volts, 24 volts or 48 volts generated by the control means 9.

[0137] Upon receipt of the anti-start signal Sad, the control unit 42 switches off the propulsion engine 41 or prevents the propulsion engine 4L from starting.

[0138] The transmission means 10 then transmit the locking signal Sverr. The transmission means are for example connected to the receiver 32 and transmit the locking signal Sverr following receipt of the anti-start signal Sad.

[0139] Alternatively, the transmission means 10 transmit the locking signal Sverr upon receipt of a trigger signal transmitted by the immobilization means 43 as long as the propulsion motor 41 is switched off.

[0140] When the transmission means 7 no longer transmit the electromagnetic activation signal Sact, the receiver 32 stops transmitting the anti-start signal Sad so that starting of the engine 41 is again possible.

[0141] [Fig.7] schematically illustrates a second example of embodiment of the road vehicle for transporting goods of the carrier type 40 docked at the loading dock 1. In [Fig.7], the elements identical to the example previously described bear the same references.

[0142] The carrier vehicle 40 comprises a braking device 44 which can be controlled by the control unit 42. The control unit 42 can be the engine control unit as in the previous embodiment or a control unit specific to controlling the braking device 44.

[0143] The braking device 44 makes it possible to immobilize the road vehicle 40 in position when it is actuated. The braking device 44 comprises brakes of the disc or drum type and is electrically controlled by the unit 42.

[0144] The receiver 32 of the control means is connected to the control unit 42 so that when the activation signal Sact emitted by the transmission means 7 is received by the receiver 32, the receiver 32 delivers an electrical braking signal Sfr to the control unit 42. The braking signal Sfr comprises a predetermined voltage, for example a direct voltage of 12 volts, 24 volts or 48 volts generated by the control means 9.

[0145] Upon receipt of the braking signal Sfr, the control unit 42 activates the braking device 44 of the road goods transport vehicle 40 or prevents the deactivation of said braking device 44 so that the vehicle 40 is immobilized in position.

[0146] The transmission means 10 then transmit the locking signal Sverr. The transmission means are for example connected to the receiver 32 and transmit the locking signal Sverr following receipt of the braking signal Sfr.

[0147] Alternatively, the transmission means 10 transmit the locking signal Sverr upon receipt of the trigger signal transmitted by the immobilization means 43 as long as the braking device 44 is activated.

[0148] When the transmission means 7 no longer transmit the electromagnetic activation signal Sact, the receiver 32 stops transmitting the braking signal Sfr so that the braking device 44 is deactivated, allowing the vehicle 40 to move into position.

[0149] In the illustrated embodiments, the equipment of the dock 1 is a sliding curtain. Alternatively, the equipment may be a mobile gangway mounted to rotate relative to the dock between a vertical non-use position and a lowered horizontal loading / unloading position.

Claims

Claims

1. Method for controlling a piece of equipment (3) of a loading dock (1) which is movable between a non-use position and a loading / unloading position, the loading dock comprising manually actuated control means (4) for actuating the equipment (3), the method comprising: - a step of transmitting an activation signal (Sact) by transmitting means (7) arranged on the loading dock (1) upon manual actuation of the control means (4) to control the movement of the equipment (3) from the non-use position to the loading / unloading position, - a step of actuating immobilization means (11, 43) in the position of a road vehicle for transporting goods docked at the loading dock (1), the immobilization means (11, 43) being activated by control means (9) upon receipt of the activation signal (Sact) by said control means, the immobilization means (11,43) and the control means (9) being arranged on the road goods transport vehicle, - a step of transmitting a locking signal (Sverr) by transmitting means (10) arranged on the road goods transport vehicle when said road vehicle is immobilized in position by the immobilizing means (11, 43), and - a step of moving the equipment (3) to the loading / unloading position only after receiving the locking signal (Sverr) by receiving means (8) arranged on the loading dock (1).,

2. Method according to claim 1, in which the actuation of the immobilization means (11) of the road goods transport vehicle (2) comprises the activation of a parking braking device of said vehicle.

3. Method according to claim 1, wherein the actuation of the immobilization means (43) of the road goods transport vehicle comprises the emission of an anti-start signal (Sad), the anti-start signal being configured to switch off a propulsion engine of the road goods transport vehicle (40) or prevent the starting of said engine.

4. A method according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the actuation of the immobilization means (43) of the road goods transport vehicle comprises the emission of a braking signal (Sfr), the braking signal being configured to activate a braking device (44) of the road goods transport vehicle (40) or prevent the deactivation of said braking device.

5. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the activation signal (Sact) comprises an electromagnetic activation signal and the locking signal (Sverr) comprises an electromagnetic locking signal.

6. Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the equipment of the loading dock (1) comprises a curtain (3) for closing access to the mobile loading dock between an open loading / unloading position and a lowered closed position of non-use.

7. Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the equipment of the loading dock (1) comprises a loading bridge movable between a lowered horizontal loading / unloading position and a raised, stowed, non-use position.

8. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the step of moving the equipment (3) towards the loading / unloading position is carried out only after reception of the locking signal (Sverr) by the reception means (8) arranged on the loading dock (1), and after reception of a location signal (Schar-déchar) of the road goods transport vehicle emitted by location means and representative of a predetermined loading / unloading position of said vehicle relative to the loading dock.

9. Method according to claim 8, in which the locating means comprise at least one contactor (19) arranged between the loading dock (1) and rear protection buffers (20) of the road vehicle, the locating signal (Schar-déchar) being delivered when the rear protection buffers (20) are in contact with the loading dock (1).

10. Method according to claim 8, in which the location means comprise at least one distance sensor arranged on the loading dock (1) and capable of measuring a distance between said dock and the road goods transport vehicle, the location signal (Schar-déchar) being delivered when the measured distance is less than a predetermined threshold value.

11. Method according to claim 8, in which the location means comprise at least one reversing radar arranged on the road goods transport vehicle and capable of measuring a distance between the loading dock (1) and said vehicle, the location signal (Schar-déchar) being delivered when the measured distance is less than a predetermined threshold value.

12. Device for controlling loading dock equipment (1) which is movable between a non-use position and a loading / unloading position, the dock comprising manually actuated control means (4) for actuating the equipment (3), the device comprising: - transmission means (7) arranged on the loading dock and configured to transmit an activation signal (Sact) upon manual actuation of the control means (4), - control means (9) arranged on the road vehicle (2, 40) for transporting goods and configured to activate immobilization means (11, 43) in position of the road vehicle for transporting goods upon receipt of the activation signal (Sact), - transmission means (10) arranged on the road vehicle for transporting goods (2,43) and configured to emit a locking signal (Sverr) when the road goods transport vehicle is immobilized in position by the immobilization means (11,43), and - inhibition means arranged on the loading dock (1) to render inoperative, in the absence of the locking signal (Sverr), the manual actuation of the control means (4) to prevent the movement of the equipment (3) from the non-use position to the loading / unloading position.,

13. Device according to claim 12, in which the inhibition means comprise an electronic control unit (5) provided with means (7) for transmitting the activation signal (Sact) and means (8) for receiving the locking signal (Sverr), the control unit (5) being capable of delivering a control signal for controlling the movement of the equipment (3) from the non-use position to the loading / unloading position only in the presence of said locking signal (Sverr).

14. Road vehicle for transporting goods (2, 40) comprising immobilization means (11, 43) in position of the goods transport vehicle docked at a loading dock (15), control means (9) configured to activate the immobilization means (11, 43) upon receipt of an activation signal (Sact), and transmission means (10) configured to transmit a locking signal (Sverr) when the road goods transport vehicle is immobilized in position by the immobilization means (11, 43).

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