A shelter for a loading dock for trucks and a method for operating a shelter for a loading dock for trucks

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a shelter (1) for a loading dock for trucks (11), wherein the shelter comprises shelter portions (2) consisting of a first side shelter portion (21), a second side shelter portion (22), and a top shelter portion (23), wherein the second side shelter portion (22) is arranged to shelter the opposite side of a truck rear loading opening to the first shelter portion (21) and wherein the top shelter portion (23) is arranged to shelter the top of a truck rear loading opening, the top sheltering portion (23) extending between the top of the first side shelter portion (21) and the top of the second side shelter portion (22); a movement arrangement (3) arranged to jointly shift the shelter portions (2) interchangeably between a non¬ sheltering state and a sheltering state; at least one input device (4) receiving input data corresponding to a state of the loading dock surroundings; a processing circuitry (5) operatively connected to the shelter portions (2) and the at least one input device (4); wherein the control circuitry (5) is configured to based on if the input data from the at least one input device (4) fulfils predetermined criteria or not, set a control signal to above or below a predetermined threshold, respectively; based on a determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold and the shelter portions (2) are in the non-sheltering state, shift, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the sheltering state; based on a determination that the control signal is below a predetermined threshold and the shelter portions (2) are in the sheltering state, shift, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the non-sheltering state. The disclosure further relates to a method for operating a shelter (1) for a loading dock for trucks.

Description

[0001] A shelter for a loading dock for trucks and a method for operating a shelter for a loading dock for trucks

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a shelter for a loading dock for trucks and a method for operating a shelter for a loading dock for trucks. More specifically, the disclosure relates to a shelter for a loading dock for trucks and a method for operating a shelter for a loading dock for trucks as defined in the introductory parts of the independent claims.

[0004] Background art

[0005] A loading dock truck shelter is a structure that provides protection to a loading dock from the elements while the truck is being loaded or unloaded at the loading dock. It can be used to protect the loading dock interior building as well as the truck interior from rain, snow, other weather conditions, leafs, dirt pests, etc. It can also be used to provide a secure location for trucks to park overnight or for extended periods of time. A loading dock truck shelter is typically designed to extend out from a loading house at the loading dock and to cover the loading dock and the back of the truck. This helps to create a seal between the truck and the loading dock, which can help to keep out unwanted elements such as rain, snow, and wind etc. There are many different types of loading dock truck shelters available, including canopy shelters, curtain shelters, and inflatable shelters. These structures can be made from a variety of materials, including metal, wood, and plastic.

[0006] Today's shelters are configured to be controlled manually to be set in a sheltering position or a non-sheltering position. There is no intelligence or configurability beyond this. There could be parts of the day or a few days in the week where you would want your shelter to be active but at other times you would like it to be inactive, depending on the inside and outside environment conditions as temperature, humidity, rain, wind etc. Shelters of today use a normal switch to turn it on or off. The switch is manually operated by the user, e.g. the truck driver or personnel at the loading dock. The manual operation of the truck shelters leads to inefficient use of the shelter where it is often used by default even though the conditions for using it does not present any benefits for the loading or unloading. In many situations it may also be counter-productive to use the shelter making the conditions of loading and unloading worse than if not using a shelter. There is thus a need for improved loading dock truck shelters.

[0007] It is an object of the present disclosure to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above-identified deficiencies and disadvantages in the prior art and solve at least the above mentioned problem. According to a first aspect there is provided a shelter for a loading dock for trucks, wherein the shelter comprises shelter portions consisting of a first side shelter portion, a second side shelter portion, and a top shelter portion, wherein the second side shelter portion is arranged to shelter the opposite side of a truck rear loading opening to the first shelter portion and wherein the top shelter portion is arranged to shelter the top of a truck rear loading opening, the top sheltering portion extending between the top of the first side shelter portion and the top of the second side shelter portion. The shelter further comprises a movement arrangement arranged to jointly shift the shelter portions interchangeably between a non-sheltering state and a sheltering state; at least one input device receiving input data corresponding to a state of the loading dock surroundings; and a processing circuitry operatively connected to the shelter portions and the at least one input device. The control circuitry is configured to, based on if the input data from the at least one input device fulfils predetermined criteria or not, set a control signal to above or below a predetermined threshold, respectively. Further, based on a determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold and the shelter portions are in the non-sheltering state, shift, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the sheltering state. Based on a determination that the control signal is below a predetermined threshold and the shelter portions are in the sheltering state, shift, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the non-sheltering state.

[0008] The shelter can then be automatically controlled based on the control signal, where the control signal may be provided e.g. by a means that measure the inside and / or outside conditions around the shelter. By controlling the shelter to be used only when it is needed according to an control signal from a control device or sensor energy for operating the shelter is reduced and wear and tear of the shelter is also reduced saving on maintenance costs for the shelter. According to some embodiments, the shelter portions are inflatable, wherein the shelter portions are inflated to shift the shelter portions from the non-sheltering state to the sheltering state. An inflatable truck shelter creates a tight seal between the dock and the docking truck, preventing air, dust, insects, or rain from entering the loading area. It consists of two or more inflatable cushions that are activated by air pressure after the truck is parked. The cushions conform to the shape and size of the truck, accommodating different types of vehicles. When not in use, the cushions deflate and retract behind protective curtains, saving space. It is very energy consuming to produce pressurized air for the shelter. To control an inflatable shelter optimally for use may therefore potentially save a lot of energy. Also wear and tear of the shelters is reduced saving in on maintenance costs when the shelter is only used when needed.

[0009] According to some embodiments, the shelter portions are mechanical, wherein the shelter portions are mechanically moved to shift the shelter portions from the non-sheltering state to the sheltering state. A mechanical truck shelter for a loading dock creates a seal between the dock and the truck using fabric or hard curtains that are attached to a retractable frame. The frame can be adjusted to fit different types of vehicles and can absorb the impact of docking. The curtains are made of durable and weather-resistant material that can protect the loading dock and the workers from the elements such as wind, rain and temperature. To control a mechanical shelter optimally for use may potentially save energy. Also wear and tear of the shelters is reduced saving in on maintenance costs when the shelter is only used when needed.

[0010] According to some embodiments, the at least one input device includes one or multiple input devices comprised in the group consisting of a temperature sensor measuring outdoor temperature and / or indoor temperature; a wind sensor for measuring the wind outside the shelter; a rain sensor for measuring rain outside the shelter; a fire alarm sensor for receiving a signal indicating fire in the vicinity; a weather service input for receiving weather data about the local weather at the shelter; a proximity sensor indicating a vehicle close to the shelter.

[0011] The shelter thereby gains information regarding the environment around the shelter enabling the possibility to control the shelter after weather conditions or conditions in the building of the shelter. E.g. if the indoor temperature is higher than desired and the outside temperature is lower, but not freezing, the shelter can decide that it is better to have the shelter in the non-sheltering position. The above decision could be reversed in case of detected rain or wind above certain thresholds. According to some embodiments, the at least one input device receives the input data from a sensor comprised in an approaching vehicle. The shelter can then be automatically engaged to enter the sheltering state unless other conditions cause the control signal to assume a value below the predetermined threshold thereby making the shelter to remain in the non-sheltering state.

[0012] According to a second aspect there is provided a method for operating a shelter for a loading dock for trucks, wherein the shelter comprises shelter portions consisting of a first side shelter portion, a second side shelter portion, and a top shelter portion, wherein the second side shelter portion is arranged to shelter the opposite side of a truck rear loading opening to the first shelter portion and wherein the top shelter portion is arranged to shelter the top of a truck rear loading opening, the top sheltering portion extending between the top of the first side shelter portion and the top of the second side shelter portion ; a movement arrangement arranged to jointly shift the shelter portions interchangeably between a non-sheltering state and a sheltering state; at least one input device for receiving input data corresponding to a state of the loading dock surroundings; a processing circuitry operatively connected to the shelter portions and the at least one input device ; wherein the method comprises: at the control circuitry receiving the control signal at the at least one input device ; setting, based on the input data from the at least one input device, a control signal to above or below a predetermined threshold; shifting, based on a determination, that the control signal is above a predetermined threshold and the shelter portions are in the non-sheltering state, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the sheltering state; shifting based on a determination that the control signal is below a predetermined threshold and the shelter portions are in the sheltering state, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the non-sheltering state.

[0013] The shelter can then be automatically controlled based on the control signal, where the control signal may be provided e.g. by a means that measure the inside and / or outside conditions around the shelter. By controlling the shelter to be used only when it is needed according to an control signal from a control device or sensor energy for operating the shelter is reduced and wear and tear of the shelter is also reduced saving on maintenance costs for the shelter.

[0014] According to some embodiments, the method comprises: at the control circuitry saving data regularly or continuously from the at least one input device. It is thereby possible to include trends in sensor values in the determination regarding weather to arrange the shelter in the sheltering state or non-sheltering state.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the at least one input device includes a temperature sensor measuring outdoor temperature and / or indoor temperature at the control circuitry ; wherein the method comprises: at the control circuitry determining based on saved data of indoor temperature and outdoor temperature that the inner temperature is above a predetermined threshold and that the outer temperature is lower and not rising; shifting based on the determination that that inner temperature is above a predetermined threshold and that the outer temperature is lower and not rising, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the non-sheltering state. The outside cool temperature can then be used to reduce the indoor temperature. If the outside temperature is below a predetermined threshold where the outside temperature is deemed to be uncomfortable or hazardous for the loading dock area, the decision is revered and the shelter is moved to the sheltering state.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the at least one input device includes a wind sensor for measuring the wind outside the shelter; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry determining based on received wind sensor data that the wind is above a predetermined threshold; setting the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the sheltering state. Thus, in case the wind is deemed to be too strong, the control signal is set to be above the predetermined threshold and the shelter portions are moved to the sheltering state to protect the unloading or loading process of the docked truck.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the at least one input device includes a rain sensor for measuring rain outside the shelter ; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry determining based on received rain sensor data that the it is raining; setting the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the sheltering state. Thus, in case it is deemed that it sis raining, the control signal is set to be above the predetermined threshold and the shelter portions are moved to the sheltering state to protect the unloading or loading process of the docked truck.

[0018] According to some embodiments, the at least one input device includes a weather service input for receiving weather data about the local weather at the shelter ; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry determining based on received weather data that the weather fulfils predetermined conditions qualifying the weather as bad; setting the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the sheltering state. By using input from a weather station many individual properties of the outdoor weather around the shelter can be included in the decision to set the control signal above or below the predetermined threshold for arrange the shelter to either the sheltering state or to the non-sheltering state.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the at least one input device includes a fire alarm sensor for receiving a signal indicating fire in the vicinity; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry determining based on the signal from the fire alarm sensor that a fire is detected in the building; setting the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the sheltering state. The shelter can then be shifted to the sheltering state to avoid feeding a potential fire with oxygen.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the at least one input device includes a proximity sensor indicating a vehicle close to the shelter; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry determining based on the signal from the proximity sensor that a vehicle is close to the shelter; setting the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the sheltering state. The shelter can thus be shifted to the sheltering state automatically when a truck approaches the loading dock and shifted to the non-sheltering state if a truck leaves a loading dock without disengaging the shelter by arranging the shelter in the non-sheltering state.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the receiving at the at least one input device the input data from a sensor comprised in an approaching vehicle, the control signal corresponding to a state of the loading dock surroundings. The shelter can thereby extend the input data available for taking a correct decision of how to set the control signal for arranging the shelter.

[0022] According to some embodiments, the determining, at the control circuitry, that based on all available input data the control signal is to be set below the predetermined threshold and that the shelter portions are in the sheltering state; shifting, based on the determination that that the control signal is below the predetermined threshold and that the shelter portions are in the sheltering state, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions to the nonsheltering state. Thus, as soon as the shelter is not deemed to be needed the shelter is shifted to the non-sheltering state, thus saving energy and protecting the parts of the shelter from tear and wear.

[0023] Effects and features of the second aspect are to a large extent analogous to those described above in connection with the first aspect. Embodiments mentioned in relation to the first aspect are largely compatible with the the second aspect.

[0024] The present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description given below. The detailed description and specific examples disclose preferred embodiments of the disclosure by way of illustration only. Those skilled in the art understand from guidance in the detailed description that changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the disclosure.

[0025] Hence, it is to be understood that the herein disclosed disclosure is not limited to the particular component parts of the device described or steps of the methods described since such device and method may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claim, the articles "a", "an", "the", and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements unless the context explicitly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a unit" or "the unit" may include several devices, and the like. Furthermore, the words "comprising", "including", "containing" and similar wordings does not exclude other elements or steps.

[0026] Brief of the

[0027] The above objects, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure, will be more fully appreciated by reference to the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of example embodiments of the present disclosure, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0028] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the shelter according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 shows a block diagram representing embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] Detailed description

[0030] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred example embodiments of the disclosure are shown. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in other forms and should not be construed as limited to the herein disclosed embodiments. The disclosed embodiments are provided to fully convey the scope of the disclosure to the skilled person.

[0031] With reference to Figure 1 the first aspect of this disclosure shows a shelter 1 for a loading dock for trucks 11, wherein the shelter comprises shelter portions 2 consisting of a first side shelter portion 21, a second side shelter portion 22, and a top shelter portion 23, wherein the second side shelter portion 22 is arranged to shelter the opposite side of a truck rear loading opening to the first shelter portion 21 and wherein the top shelter portion 23 is arranged to shelter the top of a truck rear loading opening, the top sheltering portion 23 extending between the top of the first side shelter portion 21 and the top of the second side shelter portion 22. The shelter further comprises a movement arrangement 3 arranged to jointly shift the shelter portions 2 interchangeably between a non-sheltering state and a sheltering state; at least one input device 4 receiving input data corresponding to a state of the loading dock surroundings; a processing circuitry 5 operatively connected to the shelter portions 2 and the at least one input device 4. The control circuitry 5 is configured to based on if the input data from the at least one input device 4 fulfils predetermined criteria or not, set a control signal to above or below a predetermined threshold, respectively. Further, based on a determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold and the shelter portions 2 are in the non-sheltering state, shift, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the sheltering state. Based on a determination that the control signal is below a predetermined threshold and the shelter portions 2 are in the sheltering state, shift, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the non-sheltering state.

[0032] In Figure 1, the shelter portions 2 are inflatable, wherein the shelter portions 2 are inflated to shift the shelter portions 2 from the non-sheltering state to the sheltering state. An inflatable truck shelter creates a tight seal between the dock and the docking truck, preventing air, dust, insects, or rain from entering the loading area. It consists of two or more inflatable cushions that are activated by air pressure after the truck is parked. The cushions conform to the shape and size of the truck, accommodating different types of vehicles. When not in use, the cushions deflate and retract behind protective curtains, saving space. It is very energy consuming to produce pressurized air for the shelter. To control an inflatable shelter optimally for use may therefore potentially save a lot of energy. Also wear and tear of the shelters is reduced saving in on maintenance costs when the shelter is only used when needed.

[0033] According to another embodiment (not shown) the shelter portions 2 may be mechanical. The shelter portions are then mechanically moved to shift the shelter portions 2 from the non-sheltering state to the sheltering state. A mechanical truck shelter for a loading dock creates a seal between the dock and the truck using fabric or hard curtains that are attached to a retractable frame. The frame can be adjusted to fit different types of vehicles and can absorb the impact of docking. The curtains are made of durable and weather-resistant material that can protect the loading dock and the workers from the elements such as wind, rain and temperature. To control a mechanical shelter optimally for use may potentially save energy. Also wear and tear of the shelters is reduced saving in on maintenance costs when the shelter is only used when needed.

[0034] Referring to Figure 1, the at least one input device 4 may include one or multiple input devices comprised in the group consisting of a temperature sensor measuring outdoor temperature and / or indoor temperature; a wind sensor for measuring the wind outside the shelter 1; a rain sensor for measuring rain outside the shelter 1; a fire alarm sensor for receiving a signal indicating fire in the vicinity; a weather service input for receiving weather data about the local weather at the shelter 1; a proximity sensor indicating an vehicle close to the shelter 1. The at least one input device 4 receives the input data from a sensor comprised in an approaching vehicle. In Figure 1 there are one indoor sensor and two outdoor sensors disclosed, but there may be a number of further sensors comprised in the mentioned group communicating with the shelter's processing circuitry 5.

[0035] As seen in Figure 1 a truck 11 has docked to the left loading docking where the shelter 1 is in the sheltering state. The empty loading dock has an identical shelter 1 that is in the nonsheltering state.

[0036] With reference to Figure 2, the second aspect of this disclosure shows a method for operating a shelter 1 for a loading dock for trucks, wherein the shelter comprises shelter portions 2 consisting of a first side shelter portion 21, a second side shelter portion 22, and a top shelter portion 23, wherein the second side shelter portion 22 is arranged to shelter the opposite side of a truck rear loading opening to the first shelter portion 21 and wherein the top shelter portion 23 is arranged to shelter the top of a truck rear loading opening, the top sheltering portion 23 extending between the top of the first side shelter portion 21 and the top of the second side shelter portion 22; a movement arrangement 3 arranged to jointly shift the shelter portions 2 interchangeably between a non-sheltering state and a sheltering state; at least one input device 4 for receiving input data corresponding to a state of the loading dock surroundings; a processing circuitry 5 operatively connected to the shelter portions 2 and the at least one input device 4; wherein the method comprises: at the control circuitry 5 receiving SI the input data at the at least one input device 4; setting S4, based on if the input data from the at least one input device 4 fulfils predetermined criteria or not, a control signal to above or below a predetermined threshold, respectively; shifting S5, based on a determination, that the control signal is above a predetermined threshold and the shelter portions 2 are in the non-sheltering state, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the sheltering state; shifting S6 based on a determination that the control signal is below a predetermined threshold and the shelter portions 2 are in the sheltering state, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the non-sheltering state. The shelter can then be automatically controlled based on the control signal, where the control signal may be provided e.g. by a means that measure the inside and / or outside conditions around the shelter. By controlling the shelter to be used only when it is needed according to an control signal from a control device or sensor energy for operating the shelter is reduced and wear and tear of the shelter is also reduced saving on maintenance costs for the shelter.

[0037] The method may further comprise: at the control circuitry 5 saving S2 data regularly or continuously from the at least one input device 4. It is thereby possible to include trends in sensor values in the determination regarding weather to arrange the shelter in the sheltering state or non-sheltering state.

[0038] The at least one input device 4 may include a temperature sensor measuring outdoor temperature and / or indoor temperature at the control circuitry 5; wherein the method comprises: at the control circuitry 5 determining S3-1 based on saved data of indoor temperature and outdoor temperature, that said criteria is fulfilled when the inner temperature is above a predetermined threshold and the outer temperature is lower and not rising; setting S4 the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting S6 based on the determination that that inner temperature is above a predetermined threshold and that the outer temperature is lower and not rising, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the non-sheltering state. The outside cool temperature can then be used to reduce the indoor temperature. If the outside temperature is below a predetermined threshold where the outside temperature is deemed to be uncomfortable or hazardous for the loading dock area, the decision is revered and the shelter is moved to the sheltering state.

[0039] The at least one input device 4 includes a wind sensor for measuring the wind outside the shelter 1; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry 5 determining S3- 2 based on received wind sensor data that the wind is above a predetermined threshold; setting S4 the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting S5 based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the sheltering state. Thus, in case the wind is deemed to be too strong, the control signal is set to be above the predetermined threshold and the shelter portions are moved to the sheltering state to protect the unloading or loading process of the docked truck.

[0040] The at least one input device 4 may include a weather service input for receiving weather data about the local weather at the shelter 1; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry 5 determining S3-3 based on received weather data that the weather fulfils predetermined conditions qualifying the weather as bad; setting S4 the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting S5 based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the sheltering state. Thus, in case it is deemed that it sis raining, the control signal is set to be above the predetermined threshold and the shelter portions are moved to the sheltering state to protect the unloading or loading process of the docked truck.

[0041] The at least one input device 4 may include a rain sensor for measuring rain outside the shelter 1; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry 5 determining S3-4 based on received rain sensor data that the it is raining; setting S4 the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting S5 based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the sheltering state. By using input from a weather station many individual properties of the outdoor weather around the shelter can be included in the decision to set the control signal above or below the predetermined threshold for arrange the shelter to either the sheltering state or to the non-sheltering state.

[0042] The at least one input device 4 may include a fire alarm sensor for receiving a signal indicating fire in the vicinity; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry 5 determining S3-5 based on the signal from the fire alarm sensor that a fire is detected in the building; setting S4 the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting S5 based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the sheltering state. The shelter can then be shifted to the sheltering state to avoid feeding a potential fire with oxygen.

[0043] The at least one input device 4 may include a proximity sensor indicating a vehicle close to the shelter 1; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry 5 determining S3-6 based on the signal from the proximity sensor that a vehicle is close to the shelter 1; setting S4 the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting S5 based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the sheltering state. The shelter can thus be shifted to the sheltering state automatically when a truck approaches the loading dock and shifted to the non-sheltering state if a truck leaves a loading dock without disengaging the shelter by arranging the shelter in the non-sheltering state.

[0044] The receiving SI at the at least one input device 4 of the input data from a sensor comprised in an approaching vehicle, may comprise input data corresponding to a state of the loading dock surroundings. The shelter can thereby use sensors available in the approaching truck thus extend the input data available for taking a correct decision of how to set the control signal for arranging the shelter.

[0045] The determining S3-7, at the control circuitry 5, that based on all available input data the control signal is to be set below the predetermined threshold and that the shelter portions 2 are in the sheltering state; setting S4 the control signal to below the predetermined threshold; shifting S6, based on the determination that that the control signal is below the predetermined threshold and that the shelter portions 2 are in the sheltering state, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions 2 to the non-sheltering state. Thus, as soon as the shelter is not deemed to be needed the shelter is shifted to the non-sheltering state, thus saving energy and protecting the parts of the shelter from tear and wear.

[0046] The person skilled in the art realizes that the present disclosure is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. The person skilled in the art further realizes that modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims. For example, further types of shelters for trucks than the ones mentioned could be contemplated using the disclosed method. Other vehicles than trucks could also benefit from the inventions. It could be shelters for airplanes, boats or cars. Additionally, variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by the skilled person in practicing the claimed disclosure, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A shelter (1) for a loading dock for trucks (11), wherein the shelter comprises shelter portions (2) consisting of a first side shelter portion (21), a second side shelter portion (22), and a top shelter portion (23), wherein the second side shelter portion (22) is arranged to shelter the opposite side of a truck rear loading opening to the first shelter portion (21) and wherein the top shelter portion (23) is arranged to shelter the top of a truck rear loading opening, the top sheltering portion (23) extending between the top of the first side shelter portion (21) and the top of the second side shelter portion (22); a movement arrangement (3) arranged to jointly shift the shelter portions (2) interchangeably between a non-sheltering state and a sheltering state; at least one input device (4) receiving input data corresponding to a state of the loading dock surroundings; a processing circuitry (5) operatively connected to the shelter portions (2) and the at least one input device (4); wherein the control circuitry (5) is configured to based on if the input data from the at least one input device (4) fulfils predetermined criteria or not, set a control signal to above or below a predetermined threshold, respectively; based on a determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold and the shelter portions (2) are in the non-sheltering state, shift, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the sheltering state; based on a determination that the control signal is below a predetermined threshold and the shelter portions (2) are in the sheltering state, shift, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the non-sheltering state.

2. The shelter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the shelter portions (2) areinflatable, wherein the shelter portions (2) are inflated to shift the shelter portions (2) from the non-sheltering state to the sheltering state.

3. The shelter (1) according to claim 1, wherein the shelter portions (2) are mechanical, wherein the shelter portions are mechanically moved to shift the shelter portions (2) from the non-sheltering state to the sheltering state.

4. The shelter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one input device (4) includes one or multiple input devices comprised in the group consisting of a temperature sensor measuring outdoor temperature and / or indoor temperature; a wind sensor for measuring the wind outside the shelter (1); a rain sensor for measuring rain outside the shelter (1); a fire alarm sensor for receiving a signal indicating fire in the vicinity; a weather service input for receiving weather data about the local weather at the shelter (1); a proximity sensor indicating an vehicle close to the shelter (1).

5. The shelter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one input device (4) receives the input data from a sensor comprised in an approaching vehicle.

6. A method for operating a shelter (1) for a loading dock for trucks, wherein the shelter comprises shelter portions (2) consisting of a first side shelter portion (21), a second side shelter portion (22), and a top shelter portion (23), wherein the second side shelter portion (22) is arranged to shelter the opposite side of a truck rear loading opening to the first shelter portion (21) and wherein the top shelter portion (23) is arranged to shelter the top of a truck rear loading opening, the top sheltering portion (23) extending between the top of the first side shelter portion (21) and the top of the second side shelter portion (22); a movement arrangement (3) arranged to jointly shift the shelter portions (2) interchangeably between a non-sheltering state and a sheltering state; at least one input device (4) for receiving input data corresponding to a state of the loading dock surroundings; a processing circuitry (5) operatively connected to the shelter portions (2) and the at least one input device (4); wherein the method comprises: at the control circuitry (5) receiving (SI) the input data at the at least one input device (4); setting (S4), based on if the input data from the at least one input device (4) fulfils predetermined criteria or not, a control signal to above or below a predetermined threshold, respectively; shifting (S5), based on a determination, that the control signal is above a predetermined threshold and the shelter portions (2) are in the non-sheltering state, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the sheltering state; shifting (S6) based on a determination that the control signal is below a predetermined threshold and the shelter portions (2) are in the sheltering state, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the non-sheltering state.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the method comprises: at the control circuitry (5) saving (S2) data regularly or continuously from the at least one input device (4).

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the at least one input device (4) includes a temperature sensor measuring outdoor temperature and / or indoor temperature at the control circuitry (5); wherein the method comprises: at the control circuitry (5) determining (S3-1) based on saved data of indoor temperature and outdoor temperature, that said criteria is fulfilled when the inner temperature is above a predetermined threshold and the outer temperature is lower and not rising; setting (S4) the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting (S6) based on the determination that that inner temperature is above a predetermined threshold and that the outer temperature is lower and not rising, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the non-sheltering state.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6-8, wherein the at least one input device (4) includes a wind sensor for measuring the wind outside the shelter (1); wherein the method further comprises:at the control circuitry (5) determining (S3-2) based on received wind sensor data that the wind is above a predetermined threshold; setting (S4) the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting (S5) based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the sheltering state.

10. The method according to any one of claims 6-9, wherein the at least one input device (4) includes a weather service input for receiving weather data about the local weather at the shelter (1); wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry (5) determining (S3-3) based on received weather data that the weather fulfils predetermined conditions qualifying the weather as bad; setting (S4) the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting (S5) based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the sheltering state.

11. The method according to any one of claims 6-10, wherein the at least one input device (4) includes a rain sensor for measuring rain outside the shelter (1); wherein the method further comprises:at the control circuitry (5) determining (S3-4) based on received rain sensor data that the it is raining; setting (S4) the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting (S5) based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the sheltering state.

12. The method according to any one of claims 6-11, wherein the at least one input device (4) includes a fire alarm sensor for receiving a signal indicating fire in the vicinity; wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry (5) determining (S3-5) based on the signal from the fire alarm sensor that a fire is detected in the building; setting (S4) the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting (S5) based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the sheltering state.

13. The method according to any one of claims 6-12, wherein the at least one input device (4) includes a proximity sensor indicating a vehicle close to the shelter (1);wherein the method further comprises: at the control circuitry (5) determining (S3-6) based on the signal from the proximity sensor that a vehicle is close to the shelter (1); setting (S4) the control signal to above the predetermined threshold; shifting (S5) based on the determination that the control signal is above the predetermined threshold, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the sheltering state.

14. The method according to any one of claims 6-13, wherein the receiving (SI) at the at least one input device (4) the input data from a sensor comprised in an approaching vehicle, the input data corresponding to a state of the loading dock surroundings.

15. The method according to any one of claims 6-14, wherein the determining (S3-7), at the control circuitry (5), that based on all available input data the control signal is to be set below the predetermined threshold and that the shelter portions (2) are in the sheltering state; setting (S4) the control signal to below the predetermined threshold; shifting (S6), based on the determination that that the control signal is below the predetermined threshold and that the shelter portions (2) are in the sheltering state, by the movement arrangement, the shelter portions (2) to the non-sheltering state.

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