Safety support device

Abstract

There is provided a safety support device for supporting a trailer, the safety support device comprising a base, a support member configured to support a portion of the trailer, and a mount connecting the support member to the base The mount comprises a pivoting beam and a sliding beam. The pivoting beam has a first axial end and a second axial end, the first axial end being pivotally connected to the base via a first pivotal connection. The sliding beam has a first axial end and a second axial end, the first axial end being slidably connected to the base via a slider, wherein the first axial end of the sliding beam is pivotally connected to the slider. The pivoting beam and the sliding beam are pivotally connected to one another via a second pivotal connection, and the slider is slidable towards the first pivotal connection to raise the mount from a storage configuration to a use configuration in which the support member is raised away from the base.

Description

[0001] 008901282 1

[0002] SAFETY SUPPORT DEVICE

[0003] Field of the Invention

[0004] The present invention relates to a safety support device, and particularly, although not exclusively, to a safety support device for supporting articulated HGV trailers (also known as semi-trailers) during loading / unloading.

[0005] Background

[0006] In logistics operations, lorries (having a cab and a trailer) transport goods between different locations where the goods are loaded or unloaded. For improved operational efficiency, the cabs are detached from their trailers and the trailers are manoeuvred into their loading / unloading positions in a loading bay using tractors or trucks. In this way, the lorry drivers do not need to wait in their cabs for the goods to be loaded / unloaded which can take hours.

[0007] Figure 1 shows a prior art trailer 200 have support struts (legs) 220. When a trailer 200 is backed into a loading / unloading bay 210, the support struts 220 are deployed (usually wound down by hand) to prop up the trailer, and the tractor or truck (not shown) is then detached from the trailer. The position of the support struts is dictated by the need to engage the cab during normal haulage, thus leading to considerable trailer overhang at the trailer’s front end 240 once the struts 220 are deployed.

[0008] Furthermore, the struts are often subject to damage and corrosion over time. Thus, there is a risk that, when a heavy forklift truck 250 and its load is operating at the front end 240 of the trailer 200 (i.e. where the trailer 200 overhangs the struts 220), the trailer may topple as shown in Figure 1. It is also possible that, if damaged or corroded, one of the support struts may collapse under the weight of the forklift and its cargo. Tipping trailers can cause serious injury to the forklift driver. Weakened support struts can lead to a sideways trailer collapse, which can cause damage to adjacent trailers and injury to the forklift driver as well as nearby workers.

[0009] Stands for supporting the overhanging end of the trailer during loading / unloading are known. The stands are typically positioned under the trailer either by hand or using a forklift. Thus, they can be moved around to support different trailers as and when needed. Some existing stands are compatible with trailers having different heights, by either having a stepped rigid structure which can slot under different trailers, or by being vertically adjustable using a manually, pneumatically or hydraulically driven mechanism. However, positioning and deploying these stands can be cumbersome and often carries a relatively high risk of user injury.

[0010] Therefore, there is a need for an improved safety support device for supporting a trailer. The present invention has been devised in light of the above considerations.008901282 2

[0011] Summary of the Invention

[0012] In a first aspect, there is provided a safety support device for supporting a trailer, the safety support device comprising:

[0013] a base;

[0014] a support member configured to support a portion of the trailer; and

[0015] a mount connecting the support member to the base;

[0016] wherein the mount comprises:

[0017] a pivoting beam having a first axial end and a second axial end, the first axial end being pivotally connected to the base via a first pivotal connection; and

[0018] a sliding beam having a first axial end and a second axial end, the first axial end of the sliding beam being slidably connected to the base via a slider, wherein the first axial end of the sliding beam is pivotally connected to the slider;

[0019] wherein the pivoting beam and the sliding beam are pivotally connected to one another via a second pivotal connection, and the slider is slidable towards the first pivotal connection to raise the mount from a storage configuration to a use configuration in which the support member is raised away from the base.

[0020] Advantageously, the height of the support member is easily adjustable by sliding the slider by different amounts / in different directions along the base. The device’s operation is thus easy and robust as it simply requires linear motion of the slider to vary the height of the beams and therefore the support member. The safety support device can be configured such that, in the use configuration, the support member is spaced from an underside of the trailer (i.e. the support member is interposed between the base and the underside of the trailer and does not contact the trailer). In this way, the support member can support the trailer in the event of tipping.

[0021] In the storage configuration the slider is further away from the first pivotal connection than in the use configuration. In the storage configuration, the second axial ends of the sliding and pivoting beams may be proximal the base i.e. closer to the base than in the use configuration. In the storage configuration, the support member may be proximal the base i.e. closer to the base than in the use configuration. In this way, the vertical height of the safety support device may be less in the storage configuration than in the use configuration.

[0022] In the storage configuration, the pivoting beam and the sliding beam may form an internal angle facing the base. The angle may be 180 degrees (i.e. when the beams are collinear) or less than 180 degrees. For example, the angle may be at least 120 degrees, such as at least at least 135 degrees, such as at least 150 degrees, such as at least 170 degrees.

[0023] The base may be elongated along a longitudinal axis. The base may have a transverse axis, perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. In some examples, the base may be substantially square or rectangular. The base may be substantially planar.008901282 3

[0024] In the storage configuration, the pivoting beam and the sliding beam may extend substantially longitudinally along the base.

[0025] The slider may be spaced from the first pivotal connection along the longitudinal axis of the base. The slider and the first pivotal connection may be axially aligned along the longitudinal axis of the base.

[0026] Alternatively, the slider and the first pivotal connection may be laterally spaced (i.e. along the transverse direction).

[0027] The mount may comprise one or more wheels in contact with the base and connected to the slider so as to facilitate sliding of the slider along the base. For example, the mount may comprise a plurality (e.g. a pair) of wheels and an axle connecting the plurality of wheels. The slider may be interposed (e.g. sandwiched) between the plurality of wheels. The axle may extend transversely.

[0028] The first axial end of the sliding beam may be pivotally connected to the slider via a third pivotal connection. In some examples the third pivotal connection may comprise the axle. In some examples, the third pivotal connection may comprise a rod (which may be the same as the axle, but not connected to any wheels).

[0029] The first, second and / or third pivotal connections may comprise (rotary) pin joints.

[0030] The support member may be connected to one or both of the pivoting beam and the sliding beam distal the base in the use configuration. For example, the support member may be connected to the second axial end of the pivoting beam and / or to the second axial end of the sliding beam. The support member may be connected to the second axial end which is spaced by the greatest distance from the base in the use configuration. In some examples, the second axial end of the sliding beam may be vertically spaced from the base by a greater distance than the pivoting beam. In that case, the support member may be connected to the second axial end of the sliding beam. Conversely, the second axial end of the pivoting beam may be vertically spaced from the base by a greater distance than the sliding beam. In that case, the support member may be connected to the second axial end of the pivoting beam. This can ensure that the safety support device is connected to the highest point of the mount in the use configuration (i.e. the point of the mount distal-most to the base along the vertical direction in the use configuration) to facilitate establishing contact with the underside of the trailer. In some examples, the second axial ends of both the sliding beam and the pivoting beam may be vertically equidistant from the base in the use configuration. In this case, the support member may be connected to the second axial ends of both beams.

[0031] In some examples, the second axial end of the sliding beam may be connected to the second axial end of the pivoting beam. In this case, the support member may be mounted to the second axial ends of both beams.

[0032] In some examples, the second axial end of the sliding beam may be connected to a point on the pivoting beam intermediate the first and second axial ends of the pivoting beam e.g. at a point equidistant008901282 4

[0033] between the first and second axial ends of the pivoting beam. In this case, the support member may be mounted to the second axial end of the pivoting beam.

[0034] In some examples, the second axial end of the pivoting beam may be connected to a point on the sliding beam intermediate the first and second axial ends of the sliding beam e.g. at a point equidistant between the first and second axial ends of the sliding beam. In this case, the support member may be mounted to the second axial end of the sliding beam.

[0035] In some examples, the pivoting beam and the sliding beam may be connected at points intermediate their respective axial ends (e.g. equidistant between their respective axial ends). Connecting the sliding beam and the pivoting beam at points intermediate both their axial ends forms a scissors mechanism (i.e. forming a cross-shape in the use configuration). In this case, the support member may be connected to the second axial ends of both beams. This can improve the stability of the support member.

[0036] In some examples, the support member may be pivotally connected to the mount. For example, the support member may be pivotally connected to one or more of the pivoting beam and the sliding beam. The support member may be pivotally connected to the mount via a fourth pivotal connection. The fourth pivotal connection may comprise a (rotary) pin joint. The fourth pivotal connection may also comprise a slot. The slot may extend longitudinally. The pin joint may be mounted within the slot, and e.g. slidable along the slot.

[0037] The sliding beam may comprise a bend intermediate its first and second axial ends such that the sliding beam is non-linear. The second pivotal connection may be provided at the bend of the sliding beam. In some examples, the sliding beam may comprise a first linear portion extending between the first axial end of the sliding beam and the bend, and a second linear portion extending between the bend and the second axial end of the sliding beam. The first linear portion may form an internal angle of 170 degrees or less, or 150 degrees or less, or 135 degrees or less, or 120 degrees or less, or 100 degrees or less, with the second linear portion. The second axial end of the sliding beam may be provided transversely outwardly relative to the first axial end of the sliding beam. In the storage configuration, the first linear portion may extend along or substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base, while the second linear portion may extend laterally outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0038] In some examples, the safety support device may comprise a plurality of sliding beams. For example, the safety support device may comprise two sliding beams - a first sliding beam and a second sliding beam. The sliding beams may be laterally (i.e. transversely) spaced from one another along the base. Each sliding beam may be connected to the base at its first axial end via a single slider. For example, the first axial ends of the sliding beams may be connected to transversely opposite sides of the same slider. Alternatively, each sliding beam may be connected to the base at its first axial end via a respective slider. The sliders may be (e.g. rigidly) connected to one another. In some examples, the sliders may be rigidly connected by a transversely extending rod.

[0039] The sliding beams may be symmetrically provided relative to the longitudinal axis. The sliding beams may be laterally opposed relative to the longitudinal axis. In some examples, the sliding beams may be008901282 5

[0040] substantially parallel. Each sliding beam may be substantially linear. When the first and second sliding beams are non-linear as described above, the first and second sliding beams may be arranged such that their respective first linear portions are mutually parallel, and their respective second linear portions are mutually divergent. In other words, the first and second sliding beams may together form a fork-shaped (Y-shaped) sliding beam assembly.

[0041] The sliding beams may be connected to one another, e.g. between the second pivotal connections. For example, the sliding beams may be rigidly connected, e.g. via one or more cross bars. The one or more cross bars may bridge the gap between the second pivotal connections connecting the sliding beams to the pivoting beams.

[0042] In some examples, the safety support device may comprise a plurality of pivoting beams, such as two pivoting beams - a first pivoting beam and a second pivoting beam. Each pivoting beam may be connected to the base at its first axial end via a respective first pivotal connection. The pivoting beams may be symmetrically provided relative to the longitudinal axis. The pivoting beams may be laterally opposed relative to the longitudinal axis. Each pivoting beam may be substantially linear. The pivoting beams may be parallel to one another. Alternatively, the pivoting beams may be angled relative to one another. For example, the pivoting beams may be arranged to converge towards one another along a direction from their first axial ends (fixed to the base) to their second axial ends. In the storage configuration, the pivoting beams may converge toward the longitudinal axis of the base. Each pivoting beam may be connected to a respective different sliding beam via a respective different second pivotal connection. The sliding beams and the pivoting beams may be connected to form a scissors mechanism. Thus, the mount may act as a scissor lift to raise / lower the support member.

[0043] In some examples, the safety support device may comprise one or more sidewall(s). For example, the safety support device may comprise a pair of sidewalls. The sidewalls may be laterally opposed (i.e. along the transverse axis) to one another relative to the base. The sidewalls may extend away from the base (i.e. upwardly). The sidewalls may be substantially parallel to one another. The sidewalls may be substantially perpendicular to the base. In some examples, the / each sidewall may comprise an elongated slot formed therein, each elongated slot being elongated along the longitudinal axis of the base.

[0044] The safety support device may further comprise one or more guide element(s), each slidably mounted in a respective one of the elongated slot(s). Each guide element may be pivotally connected to a respective (or the same) sliding beam, and more specifically, to its first axial end. Each guide element may be pivotally connected to its respective sliding beam indirectly, for example via the cover plate overlying said sliding beam (discussed in more detail below). In some examples, the device may have two guide elements and two sliding beams, each guiding element being connected to a respective sliding beam. The guide elements may be transversely opposed to one another. When the sliding beams are both connected to the same slider, the slider may be interposed between the guide elements along the transverse direction. By virtue of sliding along the finite length of their respective elongated slots, the guide elements can guide and limit the motion of the first axial end(s) of the sliding beam(s) along the longitudinal axis.008901282 6

[0045] In some examples, the support member may have a trailer-contacting surface. The trailer-contacting surface may be for contacting an underside of the trailer (e.g. of an overhanging portion of the trailer) so as to support the trailer in case of tipping. At least a part of the trailer-contacting surface may be parallel to the base. The trailer-contacting surface may be continuous. Alternatively, the trailer-contacting surface may be discontinuous such that it comprises a plurality of discrete contact surfaces. In some examples, the plurality of contact surfaces may be mounted to respective different second axial ends of the sliding beam(s) and / or the pivoting beam(s).

[0046] The trailer-contacting surface may be tubular (i.e. cylindrical) or planar. A tubular trailer-contacting surface may improve compatibility with different trailers having different undersides (e.g. having holes their skid plate, or no skid plate at all). Furthermore, a tubular trailer-contacting surface may improve safety. In some examples, the plurality of contact surfaces may be tubular or planar, or any combination thereof. The unitary tubular trailer-contacting surface or the discrete tubular contact surfaces may extend transversely. When the safety support device comprises a plurality of (e.g. two) sliding beams, each sliding beam may have a respective, different trailer-containing surface associated with the sliding beam. For example, each trailer-containing surface may be provided on a portion of the support member which is connected to the respective sliding beam with which the trailer-contacting surface is associated.

[0047] The unitary tubular trailer-contacting surface or the discrete tubular contact surfaces may be corrugated, i.e. comprising a series of alternately arranged parallel ridges and grooves. When the trailer-contacting surface is tubular, the ridges and grooves may be provided as alternately arranged parallel rings of different outer diameters.

[0048] In some examples, the support member may be a tubular or plate-shaped bar. The support member may extend transversely relative to the base. The support member may be connected to the second axial ends of a pair of sliding beams, as discussed above. The support member may be perpendicular to the / each sliding beam. Thus, when the support member is attached to the second axial end of the / each sliding beam, the sliding beam(s) and the support member may together form a T-shaped configuration (e.g. in both the storage configuration and the use configuration).

[0049] In some examples, the safety support device may further comprise a mounting frame configured to be permanently secured to a ground surface, e.g. a ground surface of a loading bay. The mounting frame may at least partially circumscribe the base. The mounting frame may be detachably connected to the base.

[0050] Having a mounting frame which is permanently secured to the ground can facilitate trailer loading / unloading as the position of the safety support device is fixed on the ground and trailers can be readily positioned relative to the fixed safety support device. Furthermore, fixing the mounting frame to the ground avoids the need to dig into the ground (which can be expensive) and to avoids drainage issues.

[0051] Furthermore, providing the mounting frame as a component which is detachable from the base facilitates replacement of base-mounted components of the device (e.g. the mount, the support member, a driving008901282 1

[0052] mechanism). Thus, malfunctioning or damaged base-mounted components of the safety support device can be replaced simply by detaching the base from the mounting frame, without needing to detach the mounting frame from the ground. A replacement base with properly functioning base-mounted components can then be attached to the empty mounting frame. Thus, replacement of malfunctioning units can be performed quickly and easily, minimising disruptions to normal logistics operation.

[0053] The mounting frame may comprise side walls. At least some of the side walls may be sloped, e.g. sloping down in a direction away from the base. That is, the / each side wall may slope from a high point distal an outer edge of the base to a low point proximal the (same) outer edge of the base. At least some of the side walls may be substantially perpendicular to the base. In some examples, the mounting frame may be rectangular. The mounting frame may have a pair of transversely-extending minor side walls and a pair of longitudinally-extending major side walls. The minor side walls may be sloped, while the major side walls may be substantially perpendicular to the base. This can allow the safety support device (e.g. in its storage configuration) to fit between the wheels of a vehicle, e.g. a truck, avoiding the need for the truck to drive over the safety support device.

[0054] The mounting frame may comprise connection elements for connecting to the ground surface. The connection elements may comprise holes in the mounting frame (e.g. in the side walls of the mounting frame) engageable with fasteners such as bolts, screws or pins. In this way, the mounting frame can be permanently secured to the ground.

[0055] The mounting frame may have a vertical height (in a direction perpendicular to both the longitudinal and the transverse directions) of 25cm or less, or 20cm or less, or 17cm or less, such as 16cm, or 15cm or less, or 10cm or less.

[0056] The base may be at least partially recessed relative to the mounting frame. Thus, in the storage configuration, the base, the mount and the support member may not extend above the mounting frame. This helps minimises the vertical footprint of the safety support device in the storage configuration which can facilitate trailers driving / parking over the safety support device when not in use. Thus, empty trailers can be backed into the loading bay over the safety support device in the storage configuration, and full trailers can be driven over the safety support device to leave the loading bay once they have been loaded.

[0057] The safety support device may further comprise a cover plate. The sliding beam(s) may be connected (e.g. rigidly) to the cover plate. The cover plate may overlie the sliding beam(s) in the storage configuration. The cover plate may be shaped and sized to substantially match the shape and size of a top profile of the sliding beam(s) (as viewed from above in the storage configuration).

[0058] The safety support device may comprise a top cover. The top cover may overlie the mount and the support member in the storage configuration. This can ensure that mount and the support member are protected when not in use. The top cover may be attached to the mounting frame.008901282 8

[0059] The top cover may be complementarily shaped to the cover plate overlying the sliding beam. Specifically, the top cover may include an opening shaped and sized substantially to the shape and size of the cover plate such that the top cover and the cover plate together cover the mount and the support member in the storage configuration. In this way, the parts of the safety support device around the sliding beam can be protected in both the storage and the use configurations by the top cover. Furthermore, the amount of cover that has to be lifted and lowered between the storage and use configurations is minimised by shaping and sizing the cover plate to the sliding beam.

[0060] The safety support device may have a length (in the longitudinal direction) between 1 m and 3m, such as around 2.5m. The safety support device may have a width (in the transverse direction) between 0.5m and 2m, such as around 1.5m. The safety support device may have a height of 25cm or less, or 20cm or less, or 17cm or less, such as 16cm, or 15cm or less, or 10cm or less. The safety support device may be configured to support around 25 metric tons of trailer weight.

[0061] In the use configuration, the pivoting and sliding beams are vertically spaced above the base such that their second axial ends are distal the base.

[0062] In the use configuration, the pivoting beam and the sliding beam may form an internal angle which is less than 100 degrees, or less than 90 degrees, or less than 75 degrees, or less than 60 degrees, or less than 45 degrees. The angle may be at least 5 degrees, or at least 20 degrees, or at least 30 degrees.

[0063] The safety support device may have a height in the use configuration between 1000mm and 1500mm, such as between 1000mm and 1350mm. In some examples, the safety support device may be driven between the storage configuration and the use configuration through a range of heights including from 1000mm to around 1350mm.

[0064] The safety support device (e.g. its base) may have a slider end and a pivot end. The slider end and the pivot end may provide respective opposite axial ends of the safety support device. That is, the slider end and the pivot end may be longitudinally opposed to one another.

[0065] The slider end may be proximal the slider (and the first axial end of the / each sliding beam), and distal the first pivotal connection (and the first axial end of the / each pivoting beam) in both the use configuration and the storage configuration. In other words, the slider end may be closer to the slider than to the first pivotal connection. The pivot end may be proximal the first pivotal connection (and the first axial end of the / each pivoting beam) and distal the slider (and the first axial end of the / each sliding beam). In other words, the pivot end may be closer to the first pivotal connection than the slider in the storage configuration.

[0066] The base at the pivot end of the safety support device may include a recess for accommodating the support member or a portion thereof in the storage configuration. To this end, the recess may be shaped and sized in a corresponding manner to the support member. The recess may extend along the transverse axis.008901282 9

[0067] One or both of the pivot end and the slider end of the safety support device may be configured to be secured to a ground surface, e.g. a ground surface of a loading bay. This may be in addition to, or as an alternative to the provision of a mounting frame as described above. For example, the slider end and / or the pivot end of the safety support device may comprise connection elements for connecting to the ground surface. The connection elements may comprise holes in the pivot end and / or the slider end engageable with fasteners such as bolts, screws or pins.

[0068] The safety support device may further comprise a driving mechanism connected to the slider and operable so as to slide the slider along the base. The driving mechanism may be an automated driving mechanism. Thus, the safety support device may automatically transition between the storage and use configurations, without requiring manual operation to enable the transition, thereby improving user safety.

[0069] In some examples, the driving mechanism may be a hydraulic or pneumatic driving mechanism. The hydraulic / pneumatic driving mechanism may comprise a hydraulic / pneumatic cylinder configured to move the slider linearly along the base.

[0070] In other examples, the driving mechanism may be an electromechanical driving mechanism. The electromechanical driving mechanism may comprise a motor connected to a lead screw so as to turn the lead screw (i.e. rotate the leadscrew around its longitudinal axis). The slider may comprise a bore through which the lead screw is threaded. The bore may be a threaded bore engageable with the threaded surface of the lead screw. Thus, turning the lead screw causes the slider to slide along the lead screw. Using a lead screw mechanism to drive the mount can further enhance the safety of the device. This is at least because in the case of motor failure or an electric power cut, the mount will not collapse to the storage configuration under its own weight due to the threading of the bore of the slider.

[0071] The lead screw may be mounted to the base. As such, the slider may be indirectly connected to the base via the lead screw. The lead screw may be mounted to the base along its longitudinal axis. The lead screw may be mounted to the base along a fixed track. The fixed track may be a raised portion of the base.

[0072] The motor may be mounted to the base. The motor may be enclosed within a motor housing, such as sealed motor housing.

[0073] The driving mechanism or a part thereof such as the motor may be provided at the pivot end of the safety support device. Alternatively, the driving mechanism or a part thereof such as the motor may be provided at the slider end of the safety support device.

[0074] In some examples, the electromechanical driving mechanism may comprise a plurality of (e.g. two) lead screws. The plurality of leads screws may be substantially parallel. The plurality of lead screws may be mounted to the base along respective different fixed tracks.

[0075] The electromechanical driving mechanism may comprise a plurality (e.g. two) of motors and each screw may be driven by a respective different motor.008901282 10

[0076] Alternatively, the plurality of lead screws may be driven by the same motor. In some examples, the lead screws may be connected to a belt or chain drive. The belt or chain drive may be driven by the motor. For example, each lead screw may be rigidly connected to a wheel such as a sprocket. The belt or chain may be passed around the wheels. In this way, when the motor drives the belt or chain, the wheels rotate and drive the lead screws.

[0077] Additionally, or alternatively to overlying the mount and the support member in the storage configuration, the top cover may overlie the driving mechanism or a part thereof such as the motor. In some examples, the top cover and the cover plate may be placed end-to-end with one another along the longitudinal direction. The top cover may overlie the motor in both the use and the storage configurations.

[0078] The safety support device may have a number of features which can help facilitate the transition between the storage configuration and the use configuration.

[0079] For example, as discussed above, the pivoting beam and sliding beam may be substantially axially aligned in the storage configuration. Generally, when the beams of the mount are co-linear in the storage configuration, sliding the slider towards the first pivotal connection puts the two beams in compression but may not be effective in raising the mount.

[0080] Thus, the safety support device may further comprise an initial raising mechanism configured to raise the second pivotal connection away from the base by a predetermined amount before sliding the slider towards the first pivotal connection. The initial raising mechanism is therefore used to raise the second pivotal connection away from the base to enable sliding of the slider towards the first pivotal connection and therefore raising of the mount to its use configuration.

[0081] In some examples, the second pivotal connection may be rigidly connected to a cover plate (e.g. the cover plate overlying the sliding beam in the storage configuration, as discussed in more detail above).

[0082] In some examples, the initial raising mechanism may comprise a nut mounted on a lead screw and spaced from the first pivotal connection and the slider, the first pivotal connection being interposed between the nut and the second pivotal connection. The lead screw may be the lead screw of the electromechanical driving mechanism that drives the slider towards the first pivotal connection. The nut may be spaced from the slider along the lead screw by about 200mm.

[0083] Turning the lead screw causes the nut to slide along the lead screw and therefore along the base. The lead screw can turn in a direction that causes the nut to slide towards the slider. When the nut makes contact with the slider, the driving force generated by the lead screw is transferred entirely to the slider, causing the slider to slide towards the first pivotal connection, which completes the transition to the use configuration.

[0084] In some examples, the electromechanical driving mechanism may comprise a lead screw, but the slider may not be connected to the lead screw. In these examples, the electromechanical driving mechanism may comprise a driving nut mounted to the lead screw such that turning the lead screw causes the driving008901282 11

[0085] nut to slide along the lead screw. The driving nut may have a threaded bore, and the lead screw may be inserted into the threaded bore. The driving nut may be operatively connected to the slider so as to drive the slider along the base. For example, the driving nut may be rigidly connected to the slider. In some examples, the driving nut may be the nut of the initial raising mechanism.

[0086] The initial raising mechanism may comprise an arm having a driving end connected to the nut and a driven end.

[0087] One of the base and the cover plate may comprise a ramp. The driven end of the arm may be in contact with and interposed between the ramp and other of the base and the cover plate. Turning the lead screw may thus cause the nut to slide towards the first pivotal connection, causing the driven end of the arm to slide up the ramp, thereby forcing the cover plate and the second pivotal connection away from the base such that the beams of the mount are no longer co-linear.

[0088] The ramp may be inclined from a portion of maximum height proximal the second pivotal connection to a portion of minimum height distal the second pivotal connection.

[0089] The base may comprise the ramp and the ramp may thus be a base ramp. In this case, the driven end of the arm may be interposed between the base ramp and the top plate. Alternatively, the top plate may comprise the ramp and the ramp may thus be a plate ramp. The plate ramp may be provided on an underside of the cover plate, facing the base. In this case, the driven end of the arm may be interposed between the plate ramp and the base.

[0090] In some examples, each of the base and the cover plate may comprise a respective ramp. That is, the initial raising mechanism may comprise both a plate ramp and a base ramp. The ramps may at least partially overlie one another and may be included in the same direction. The driven end of the arm may be in contact with both ramps. Providing the driven end of the arm between two ramps may help increase the amount by which the cover plate (and therefore the second pivotal connection) is raised away from the base under the turning of the lead screw.

[0091] The base ramp may have a single ramp surface along which the driven end of the arm slides. The plate ramp may have a pair of transversely spaced ramp surfaces along which the driven end of the arm slides. In the storage configuration, the ramp surface of the base ramp may sit (i.e. may be nested) between the ramp surfaces of the plate ramp. This can ensure that the arm is not subject to torsion when active.

[0092] The driven end of the arm may comprise a plate-ramp-contacting portion for contacting the plate ramp and a base-ramp-contacting portion for contacting the base ramp. The plate-ramp-contacting portion and the base-ramp-contacting portion may be distinct from one another and optionally spaced from one another in the vertical direction.

[0093] The driven end of the arm (e.g. each of the plate-ramp-contacting portion and the base-ramp-contacting portion) may comprise one or more wheels for contacting the base (e.g. the base ramp) and / or the cover plate (e.g. the plate ramp). In this way, sliding of the driven end up the ramp(s) can be facilitated.008901282 12

[0094] In some examples, the initial raising mechanism may comprise a plurality of arms, e.g. two arms - a first arm and a second arm. The arms (e.g. first and second arms) may be laterally opposed relative to and symmetrically provided on either side of the lead screw.

[0095] In some examples, the initial raising mechanism may comprise a plurality of ramps, e.g. a pair of ramps laterally opposed relative to and symmetrically provided on either side of the leadscrew. The ramps may be base ramps or plate ramps.

[0096] In some examples, the base may comprise a pair of ramps - a first base ramp and a second base ramp. The base ramps (e.g. first and second base ramp) may be symmetrically provided on either side of the lead screw (e.g. laterally opposed to the lead screw).

[0097] In some examples, the cover plate may comprise a plurality of plate ramps, e.g. two plate ramps - a first plate ramp and a second plate ramp. The plate ramps (e.g. first and second plate ramps) may be symmetrically provided on either side of the lead screw (e.g. laterally opposed to the lead screw). The driven end of the second arm may be in contact with and interposed between the second base ramp and the second plate ramp.

[0098] The safety support device may comprise a controller. The controller may be coupled to the driving mechanism (e.g. to the motor) so as to control operation of the driving mechanism. For example, the controller may be configured to switch the driving mechanism on or off. The controller may be configured to control a speed at which the driving mechanism moves the mount between the storage and use configurations. For example, when the driving mechanism is an electromechanical driving mechanism, the controller may be configured to control a speed at which the lead screw(s) is / are turned and / or a direction in which the leads screw(s) is / are turned.

[0099] In some examples, the safety support device may comprise a torque limiter, such as a roller torque limiter. When the driving mechanism is an electromechanical driving mechanism, the torque limiter may be connected between the leadscrew and the motor. Upon exceeding a predetermined torque, the torque limiter may disengage the leadscrew from the motor. The predetermined torque may be a torque used to turn the lead screw to drive the mount between the storage and use configurations. The predetermined torque may be exceeded if the support member contacts an underside of the trailer.

[0100] In some examples, the safety support device may comprise one or more sensors coupled to the torque limiter so as to detect the disengagement caused by the torque limiter. The one or more sensors may comprise one or more proximity sensors (such as inductive, capacitive, photoelectric, or magnetic sensors) and / or one or more limit switches. The one or more sensors may be coupled (e.g. communicatively, mechanically and / or electrically) to the controller. In this way, the controller may be configured to control operation of the driving mechanism based on input from the one or more sensors. Thus, the safety support device can easily stop at any point of its transition between the storage and use configurations, for example if a vehicle such as forklift or a truck is in the detected above the safety support device.008901282 13

[0101] The driving mechanism of the safety support device may be remotely controlled. To this end, the controller may be communicatively couplable to a remote master controller, e.g. via a wireless communication protocol. In this way, the controller can receive control instructions from the master controller. The controller may be configured to then implement the received control instructions to control the driving mechanism accordingly.

[0102] The master controller may be located inside a warehouse and may be for example controlled by a warehouse worker. In this way, the safety support device can be remotely controlled, e.g. from inside a warehouse, further improving its ease and safety of use.

[0103] The safety support device may also comprise one or more components configured to generate light and / or sound, such as for example one or more lights and / or one or more speakers. The one or more lights may be configured to generate warning lights, such as flashing lights. The one or more speakers may be configured to generate warning sounds such as a buzzer sound. The warning lights and / or sounds may be generated prior to and / or during transition of the safety support device from the storage configuration to the use configuration, and vice versa.

[0104] In a second aspect, there is provided a safety support device for supporting a trailer, the safety support device comprising:

[0105] a base;

[0106] a support member configured to support a portion of the trailer;

[0107] a mount connecting the support member to the base; and

[0108] an electromechanical driving mechanism connected to the mount to drive the mount between a storage configuration and a use configuration in which the support member is raised away from the base.

[0109] By driving the mount and the support member electromechanically, the safety of the safety support device can be improved. Specifically, electromechanical actuation is safer and more reliable compared to e.g. pneumatic or hydraulic actuation as it does not require a working fluid (gas or liquid). Furthermore, electromechanical actuation is more convenient and safer than manual actuation, such as manually positioning and / or raising / lowering the support member relative to the base of the device.

[0110] The base, the support member, the mount and the electromechanical driving mechanism may have any features or combinations of features of the base, the support member, the mount and the electromechanical driving mechanism discussed with reference to the safety support device of the first aspect.

[0111] For example, the electromechanical driving mechanism may comprise a motor connected to a lead screw so as to turn the lead screw, with the slider comprising a (threaded) bore through which the lead screw is threaded. Using a lead screw mechanism to drive the mount can further enhance the safety of the device. This is at least because in the case of motor failure or an electric power cut, the mount will not collapse to the storage configuration under its own weight due to the threading of the bore of the slider.008901282 14

[0112] The mount may comprise a pivoting beam and a sliding beam. The pivoting beam has a first axial end and a second axial end, the first axial end being pivotally connected to the base at one end via a first pivotal connection. The sliding beam has a first axial end and a second axial end, the first axial end being slidably connected to the base at one end via a slider, wherein the first axial end of the sliding beam is pivotally connected to the slider. The pivoting beam and the sliding beam are connected to one another via a second pivotal connection. The slider may be slidable along the base towards the first pivotal connection to raise the mount from the storage configuration to the use configuration.

[0113] In a third aspect, there is provided a system comprising:

[0114] the safety support device of the first aspect comprising a driving mechanism, or the safety support device of the second aspect;

[0115] one or more sensors for monitoring a position of the support member and / or the trailer;

[0116] a master controller communicatively coupled to the safety support device and to the one or more sensors so as to receive sensor data therefrom;

[0117] wherein the master controller is configured to control operation of the driving mechanism based on the received sensor data.

[0118] The one or more sensors may comprise one or more limit switches, one or more cameras, and / or one or more proximity sensors such as inductive, capacitive, photoelectric, or magnetic sensors. The one or more sensors may be mounted on or around the safety support device. The one or more sensors may be mounted on the support member, such as on the trailer-contacting surface.

[0119] The one or more sensors discussed with reference to the third aspect may be different to the one or more sensors coupled to the torque limier discussed with reference to the first aspect.

[0120] The master controller may be communicatively coupled to the safety support device so as to transmit control instructions thereto. The control instructions may instructions for controlling the operation of the driving mechanism.

[0121] The master controller may be provided remotely from the safety support device, e.g. inside a warehouse.

[0122] In some examples, the master controller may be configured to process the received sensor data (as input) and to generate control instructions for the driving mechanism (as output) based on the processed sensor data. The master controller may then transmit the control instructions to the safety support device, e.g. to a controller of the safety support device which may implement the control instructions locally to control the operation of the driving mechanism accordingly (e.g. to switch the driving mechanism on / off, or reverse and / or control the speed of the transition from the storage configuration to the use configuration and vice versa). In these examples, the master controller may be communicatively coupled to the controller of the safety support device, as described with reference to the first aspect.

[0123] In other examples, the master controller may be operable by a human operator (e.g. a warehouse worker) who may input control instructions into the master controller based on the received sensor data (e.g. camera images / video stream). The master controller may then transmit the control instructions to the safety support device, e.g. to its controller, which may implement the control instructions locally to move the mount accordingly.008901282 15

[0124] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of deploying the safety support device according the first or second aspect from the storage configuration to the use configuration, the method comprising:

[0125] raising the mount away from the base until the support member contacts an underside of a trailer; and

[0126] lowering the mount towards the base by a predetermined distance, thereby rendering the safety support device in the use configuration.

[0127] The method can ensure that, in the use configuration, the support member is spaced from the underside of the trailer by the predetermined distance. Thus, the safety support device can support the trailer in the event of the tailer tipping over towards the safety support device.

[0128] The predetermined distance may be at least 10mm, or at least 20 mm, or at least 35mm, or at least 50mm, such as around 50mm. The predetermined distance may be 200mm or less, or 150mm or less, or 100mm or less, or 75mm or less, or 50mm or less, or 35mm or less, or 20mm or less.

[0129] When the safety support device comprises an electromechanical driving mechanism comprising a leadscrew, the lowering of the mount may be include reversing the direction in which the lead screw is turned.

[0130] The method may comprise detecting that the support member is in contact with the underside of the trailer. The lowering of the mount towards the base may be thus initiated in response to (i.e. triggered by) the detection of support member being in contact with the underside of the trailer. This can improve the accuracy with which the mount is lowered towards the base (i.e. away from the underside of the trailer) by the predetermined distance.

[0131] The detection may be performed by one or more sensors and / or limit switches of the safety support device, e.g. as described above. In some examples, contacting the underside of the trailer may cause a predetermined amount of torque to be exceeded. This may trigger a torque limiter of the safety support device, such as described above.

[0132] The invention includes the combination of the aspects and preferred features described except where such a combination is clearly impermissible or expressly avoided. For example, the controller of the safety support device discussed above with reference to the first aspect may be configured to perform any of the steps of the method of the fourth aspect.

[0133] Summary of the Figures

[0134] Embodiments and experiments illustrating the principles of the invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures in which:

[0135] Figure 1 schematically shows a trailer in a loading bay.

[0136] Figures 2A-2D schematically show a safety support device at respective different stages of a transition from a storage configuration to a use configuration.008901282 16

[0137] Figure 3A-3B schematically show the safety support device of Figures 2A-2D being driven respectively by a hydraulic driving mechanism and an electromechanical driving mechanism.

[0138] Figures 4A-4G schematically show respective different views of an example implementation of the safety support device of Figure 3B.

[0139] Figure 5 schematically shows a partial view of the safety support device of Figures 4A-4G comprising an initial raising mechanism.

[0140] Figures 6A-6C schematically shows the operation of the initial raising mechanism shown in Figure 5. Figures 7A-7B schematically show different views of a variant implementation of the safety support device of Figures 4A-6.

[0141] Figures 8A-8B schematically show a yet further variant implementation of the safety support device of Figures 4A-6, respectively in the storage configuration and in the use configuration.

[0142] Figure 9 schematically shows a yet further implementation of the safety support device of Figures 4A-4G.

[0143] Figures 10A-10B schematically show a yet further variant implementation of the safety support device of Figures 4A-4G respectively in the storage configuration and in the use configuration.

[0144] Figure 11 schematically shows a yet further variant implementation of the safety support device of Figures 4A-6, in the storage configuration and in the use configuration.

[0145] Figures 12A, 12B, and 12C schematically show a yet further variant implementation of the safety support device of Figures 4A-6, in the storage configuration (Figures 12A and 12C) and in the use configuration (Figure 12B).

[0146] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0147] Aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be discussed with reference to the accompanying figures. Further aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All documents mentioned in this text are incorporated herein by reference.

[0148] Example implementations of a safety support device 100 for supporting a trailer 200, such as the one shown in Figure 1 , are discussed with reference to Figures 2A-12.

[0149] With reference to Figures 2A-2D, the safety support device 100 comprises a base 10 and a mount 30 connected to the base 10. The base 10 is elongated along a longitudinal axis. In the following examples, the base 10 is substantially rectangular.

[0150] The mount 30 comprises a pivoting beam 32. The pivoting beam 32 has a first axial end 32a and a second axial end 32b. The pivoting beam 32 is pivotally connected to the base 10 at its first axial end 32a via first pivotal connection 34. The mount 30 also comprises a sliding beam 36. The sliding beam 36 has a first axial end 36a and a second axial end 36b. The first axial end 36a of the sliding beam 36 is slidably connected to the base 10 via a slider 38. The pivoting beam 32 and the sliding beam 36 are pivotally connected to one another via a second pivotal connection 37. In the example of Figures 2A-2D, the008901282 17

[0151] second axial end 32b of the pivoting beam 32 is pivotally connected to a point on the sliding beam 36 intermediate the first 36a and second 36b axial ends of the sliding beam 36 (the point also being equidistant between the first and second axial ends of the sliding beam).

[0152] The first 34 and second 37 pivotal connections comprise (rotary) pin joints.

[0153] The safety support device 100 has a storage configuration, shown in Figure 2A and a use configuration shown in Figure 2D.

[0154] In the storage configuration, the pivoting beam 32 and the sliding beam 36 may form an internal angle of around 180 degrees (i.e. when the beams are substantially collinear). In the use configuration, the pivoting beam 32 and the sliding beam 36 form an internal angle which is between 45 degrees and 90 degrees.

[0155] The safety support device 100 transitions from the storage configuration to the use configuration by sliding the slider 38 towards the first pivotal connection 34 which gradually raises the mount 30 as shown in Figures 2A-2D with the help of arrows.

[0156] The safety support device 100 also comprises a support member 20 configured to support a portion of the trailer 200, e.g. an underside of the front, overhanging trailer portion 240 shown for example in Figure 1. The support member 20 has a trailer-contacting surface 22 as shown for example in Figures 3A-3B. In the example of Figures 3A-3B, the trailer-contacting surface 22 is planar. However, other modifications are possible, as will become apparent from the Figures discussed below.

[0157] The safety support device 100 has a driving mechanism 70 which automatically drives the transition of the mount 3030 from the storage configuration to the use configuration. In the example of Figure 3A, the driving mechanism 70 is a hydraulic driving mechanism 70 comprising a hydraulic cylinder 72. The hydraulic cylinder 72 is configured to move the slider 38 linearly along the base 10, towards the first pivotal connection 34.

[0158] In the example of Figure 3B, the driving mechanism 70 is electromechanical instead of hydraulic. The electromechanical driving mechanism 70 comprises a motor 76 connected to a lead screw 74 so as to turn the lead screw. The slider 38 has a bore (not shown) through which the lead screw 74 is threaded. The bore is a threaded bore engageable with the threaded surface of the lead screw 74. Thus, turning the lead screw 74 causes the slider 38 to slide along the lead screw 74. Depending on the direction along which the lead screw 74 is turned, the slider 38 can be slid along the base 10 towards or away from the first pivotal connection 34.

[0159] The lead screw 74 is mounted to the base 10 along its longitudinal axis. As such, the slider 38 is indirectly connected to the base 10 via the lead screw 74. The motor 76 is mounted to the base 10 and is enclosed within a sealed or a semi-sealed motor housing.

[0160] Figures 4A-4G show an example implementation of the safety support device 100. Figures 4A-4D show the safety support device 100 in its storage configuration, while Figures 4E-4G show the safety support device 100 in the use configuration.008901282 18

[0161] The lead screw 74 in this example is mounted to a fixed track 12 of the base. The fixed track extends longitudinally and is raised relative to the rest of the base 10.

[0162] The safety support device 100 comprises a pair of sliding beams 36 - a first sliding beam 36 and a second sliding beam 36 (see e.g. Figure 4F). The sliding beams 36 are laterally (i.e. transversely) opposed relative to the longitudinal axis (and the lead screw). Each sliding beam 36 is connected to the base 10 at its first axial end 36a via the slider.

[0163] Each sliding beam 36 comprises a bend intermediate its first 36a and second 36b axial ends such that the sliding beam 36 is non-linear. The sliding beam 36 comprises a first linear portion 33 extending between the first axial end 36a of the sliding beam 36 and the bend, and a second linear portion 35 extending between the bend and the second axial end 36b of the sliding beam 36. The first linear portion 33 forms an internal angle of around 170 degrees or less with the second linear portion 35. The second axial end 36b is provided transversely outwardly relative to the first axial end 36a. In the storage configuration, the first linear portion 33 extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base 10, while the second linear portion 35 extends laterally outwardly relative to the longitudinal axis.

[0164] The first and second sliding beams 3636 are arranged such that their respective first linear portions 33 are mutually parallel, and their respective second linear portions 35 are mutually divergent. In other words, the first and second sliding beams 3636 together form a fork-shaped (Y-shaped) sliding beam 36 assembly.

[0165] The sliding beams 36 are connected by a cross bar 49 bridging their second pivotal connections. As shown for example in Figure 4D, the sliding beams 36 are also connected via the slider. Specifically, the first axial ends 36a of both sliding beams 36 are pivotally connected to the slider. The first axial ends 36a of the sliding beams 36 are also connected to respective wheels 46 to facilitate their sliding along the base 10.

[0166] The safety support device 100 also comprises two pivoting beams 32 - a first pivoting beam 32 and a second pivoting beam. Each pivoting beam 32 is connected to the base 10 at its first axial end 32a via a respective first pivotal connection. The pivoting beams 32 are symmetrically provided and laterally opposed relative to the longitudinal axis. The pivoting beams 32 are angled relative to one another (as shown for example in Figure 4F). That is, the pivoting beams 32 converge towards one another along a direction from their first axial ends 32a (fixed to the base 10) to their second axial ends. In the storage configuration, the pivoting beams 32 converge toward the longitudinal axis of the base 10. The first pivoting beam 32 is pivotally connected to the first sliding beam 36 via a respective second pivotal connection 37 and the second pivoting beam 32 is pivotally connected to the second sliding beam 36 via a respective different second pivotal connection.

[0167] The trailer-contacting surface 22 in the examples of Figures 4A, 4B, 4C, 4E, 4F and 4G comprises a pair of discrete planar contact surfaces 22 mounted to respective different second axial ends 36b of the sliding beam 36. The planar contact surfaces 22 are parallel the base 10. In contrast, in the example of Figure008901282 19

[0168] 4D, the support member 20 is a transversely extending tubular bar providing a single, tubular trailercontacting surface 22.

[0169] The safety support device 100 further comprises a mounting frame 60 configured to be permanently secured to a ground surface 230, e.g. a ground surface of a loading bay. The mounting frame 60 circumscribes the base 10 and is detachably connected to the base 10. The mounting frame 60 in this example is rectangular and comprises a pair of transversely-extending minor side walls and a pair of longitudinally-extending major side walls. The minor and major side walls are sloped in a direction away from the base 10, i.e. from a high point distal an outer edge of the base to a low point proximal the same outer edge of the base.

[0170] The connection means comprises holes 62 in the mounting frame 60 engageable with fasteners such as bolts. In this way, the mounting frame 60 can be permanently bolted down to the ground.

[0171] The mounting frame 60 has a height of around 16 cm (162.24 mm), a length of around 2.50 m (2520.00 mm) and a width of around 1.5 m (1498 cm) as shown in Figure 4A.

[0172] The base 10 is recessed relative to the mounting frame. Thus, in the storage configuration, the base 10, the mount 30and the support member 20 do not extend above the mounting frame, as shown in Figures 4A-4B.

[0173] The safety support device 100 comprises a cover plate 40 rigidly connected to the sliding beam. The cover plate 40 overlies the sliding beam 36 in the storage configuration. The cover plate 40 is shaped and sized to substantially match the shape and size of the top profile of the sliding beam.

[0174] The safety support device 100 comprises a top cover 44 overlying the mount 30 and the support member 20 in the storage configuration. The top cover 44 is attached to the mounting frame. The top cover 44 is complementarily shaped to the cover plate 40 overlying the sliding beam. Specifically, the top cover 44 includes an opening shaped and sized substantially to the shape and size of the cover plate 40 such that the top cover 44 and the cover plate 40 together cover the mount 30and the support member 20 in the storage configuration.

[0175] Generally, when the beams of the mount 30 are co-linear in the storage configuration, sliding the slider 38 towards the first pivotal connection 34 puts the two beams in compression but may not be effective in raising the mount. For this reason, the safety support device 100 also comprises an initial raising mechanism, as discussed in detail with reference to Figures 5-7 below.

[0176] The initial raising mechanism is configured to raise the second pivotal connections away from the base 10 by a predetermined amount before sliding the slider 38 towards the first pivotal connections. The initial raising mechanism is therefore used to raise the second pivotal connections away from the base 10 to enable sliding of the slider 38 towards the first pivotal connections and therefore raising of the mount 30 to its use configuration.008901282 20

[0177] The second pivotal connections are rigidly connected to the cover plate.

[0178] The initial raising mechanism comprises a nut 82 (comprising a threaded bore) mounted on the lead screw 74 and spaced from the first pivotal connections such that the first pivotal connections are interposed between the nut 82 and the second pivotal connections. The initial raising mechanism also comprises a pair of arms 84 symmetrically provided on laterally opposite sides of the lead screw. The arms 84 are parallel to the lead screw. Each arm 84 has a respective driving end 84a connected to the nut 82 and a respective axially opposite driven end 84b.

[0179] The base 10 comprises a pair of base ramps 14 symmetrically provided on laterally opposite sides of the lead screw. The cover plate 40 comprises a pair of plate ramps 42, provided on an underside of the top plate, facing the base 10 in the storage configuration. The plate ramps 42 are symmetrically provided on laterally opposite sides of the lead screw 74 in the storage configuration. The cover ramps overlie the base ramps 14 in the storage configuration. The base ramps 14 and the plate ramps 42 are inclined from a portion of maximum height proximal the second pivotal connection 37 to a portion of minimum height distal the second pivotal connection.

[0180] The driven end 84b of each arm 84 is interposed between and in contact with a respective one of the base ramp 14 and the plate ramp 42. With reference to Figures 6A-6C, turning the lead screw 74 causes the nut 82 to slide towards the first pivotal connections (and towards the slider), causing the driven ends 84b of the arms 84 to slide up the ramps, thereby forcing the cover plate 40 and the second pivotal connection 37 away from the base 10 such that the sliding and pivoting beams 32 of the mount 30 are no longer co-linear.

[0181] When the nut 82 eventually makes contact with the slider, the driving force generated by the lead screw 74 is transferred entirely from the nut 82 to the slider, causing the slider 38 to slide towards the first pivotal connections, which completes the transition to the use configuration. In other words, when transitioning from the storage configuration to the use configuration, the motion of the slider 38 along the leadscrew is driven by the motion of the nut 82.

[0182] Although not shown in the figures, the safety support device 100 comprises a controller coupled to the driving mechanism 70 (e.g. to the motor 76) so as to control operation of the driving mechanism. The controller is configured to switch the driving mechanism 70 on or off, and to control the turning speed of the lead screw 74 and the direction in which the leads screw is turned. The driving mechanism 70 of the safety support device 100 is remotely controlled. To this end, the controller is communicatively couplable to a remote master controller, e.g. via a wireless communication protocol. In this way, the controller can receive control instructions from the master controller. The controller is configured to then implement the received control instructions to control the operation of the driving mechanism 70 accordingly.

[0183] The master controller is located inside a warehouse, i.e. remote from the safety support device 100. The master controller can be communicatively coupled to one or more sensors, such as cameras mounted around the safety support device 100. The master controller can thus receive sensor data from the sensors, and can be control the operation of the driving mechanism 70 base 10d on the received sensor008901282 21

[0184] data. In some examples, the master controller is operable by a human operator (e.g. a warehouse worker) who may input control instructions into the master controller base 10d on the received sensor data (e.g. camera images / video stream). The master controller may then transmit the control instructions to the controller of the safety support device 100 for implementation. Alternatively, the master controller may be configured to process the received sensor data (as input) and to generate control instructions for the driving mechanism 70 (as an output) base 10d on the processed sensor data. The master controller may then transmit the control instructions to the controller of the safety support device 100.

[0185] Figures 7A and 7B show a variant implementation of the safety support device 100 of Figures 4-6.

[0186] In this example, the sliding beams 36 are linear and parallel. The second axial ends 32b of the pivoting beams 32 are pivotally connected to the second axial ends 36b of the sliding beams. The support member 20, having two laterally spaced planar contact surfaces 22, is connected to the second axial ends 32b, 36b of the sliding beams 36 and the pivoting beams 32.

[0187] As in the example if Figures 4-6, the first axial ends 36a of the sliding beams 36 are pivotally connected to the slider, on either side of the slider, and are further connected to wheels 46 to facilitate sliding along the base 10.

[0188] Figures 8A and 8B show a variant implementation of the safety support device 100. In this example, the pivoting beams 32 are linear, parallel, and rigidly connected to one another via a pair of cross bars 49.

[0189] The sliding beams 36 are also linear and parallel to one another and connected via a pair of cross bars 49. The first axial ends 36a of the sliding beams 36 are pivotally connected to the slider 38 via a transversely extending pin. The second axial ends 36b of the sliding beams 36 are pivotally connected to one of the cross bars 49 connecting the pivoting beams 32, intermediate the first and second axial ends 32b of the pivoting beams 32. Thus, in this example, the sliding beams 36 are indirectly connected to the pivoting beams 32 via the cross bar 49 transversely connecting the pivoting beams 32.

[0190] Additionally, in this example, the trailer-contacting surface 22 comprises two tubular contact surfaces 22 mounted to respective different second axial ends 32b of the pivoting beams 32.

[0191] The mounting frame 60 comprises a pair of longitudinally-extending major side walls 60b. The major side walls 60b are substantially perpendicular to the base 10.

[0192] Figure 9 shows a variant implementation of the safety support device 100. In this example, the pivoting beams 32 are linear and parallel but not directly connected to one another. The sliding beams 36 are linear and parallel. The first axial ends 36a of the sliding beams 36 are connected via a transversely extending rod. The rod also pivotally connects the first axial ends 36a to a pair of sliders 38.

[0193] The sliders 38 are slidably mounted to a pair of parallel lead screws 74 mounted to the base 10 along its longitudinal axis.008901282 22

[0194] The lead screws 74 are driven by the same motor 76. The lead screws 74 are connected to a belt or chain drive having a belt or chain 79 passed around wheels (such as sprockets) 78. Each lead screw 74 is rigidly connected to a respective wheel 78. In this way, when the motor 76 drives the belt or chain 79, the wheels 78 rotate and turn the lead screws 74.

[0195] The support member 20 comprises a single, tubular trailer-contacting surface 22. The support member 20 extends transversely and connects the second axial ends 36b of the sliding beams.

[0196] In the example of Figures 10A and 10B, two safety support devices 100 100 according to the present disclosure are mounted to a first plate member 90 and a second plate 92 member. The plate members 90, 92 are spaced along the longitudinal axes of the devices. Each safety support device 100 has a mounting frame 60. Each mounting frame comprises a pair of transversely-extending minor side walls 60a and a pair of longitudinally-extending major side walls 60b. The minor side walls 60a are sloped from a high point distal a transverse outer edge of the base 10 to a low point proximal the transverse outer edge of the base 10, while the major side walls 60b are substantially perpendicular to the base 10.

[0197] The mounting frames 60 are configured to be permanently secured to the ground surface 230 at least partially via the plate members 90, 92.

[0198] Each of the safety support devices 100 has a pair of linear, parallel sliding beams 36 connected to one another via transversely extending cross-shaped cross bars and linear cross bars 49. The first axial ends 36a of the sliding beams 36 are connected to the slider 38 and a pair of wheels 46 as described with reference to Figures 4-7.

[0199] Each safety support device 100 has a pair of linear parallel pivoting beams 32. The second axial ends 32b of the pivoting beams 32 are attached to respective different sliding beams 36 at a point intermediate the first 36a and second 36b axial ends of the sliding beams (the point also being equidistant between the first and second axial ends of the sliding beams).

[0200] Each support member 20 extends transversely between the second axial ends 36b of the sliding beams 36 so as to connect them. Each support member 20 has a single tubular contact surface 22 and a pair of prongs having planar contact surfaces 22 substantially parallel to the base 10. Each prong is mounted to the second axial end 36b of a respective different sliding beam.

[0201] Figure 11 shows a further variant implementation of the safety support device 100. In this example, the safety support device 100 comprises a pair of linear parallel pivoting beams 32 and a pair of linear parallel sliding beams.

[0202] The safety support device 100 comprises a pair of wheels 49 mounted to a transversely extending axle 48. The axle is rigidly connected to the slider 38. The wheels and the axle are pivotally connected to the first axial ends 36a of each of the sliding beams 36. Thus, in this example, the first axial ends 36a of the sliding beams 36 are indirectly pivotally connected to the slider, via the axle 48.008901282 23

[0203] The sliding beams 36 and the pivoting beams 32 are connected at points intermediate both their respective first and second axial ends. That is, the first sliding beam 36 is pivotally connected to the first pivoting beam 32 at a point on the pivoting beam 32 intermediate (and equidistant between) the first 32a and second 32b axial ends of the first pivoting beam 32, the location also being intermediate (and equidistant between) the first 36a and second axial ends 36b of the first sliding beam. The second sliding beam 36 and the second pivoting beam 32 are pivotally connected to one another in the same manner. Thus, the sliding beams 36 and the pivoting beams 32 together form a scissors mechanism.

[0204] The use configuration of the safety support device 100 is shown on the bottom-left of Figure 11, while a lowered configuration (intermediate the use configuration and the storage configuration) is shown on the top-tight of Figure 11.

[0205] The support member 20 is pivotally mounted to the second axial ends 32b, 36b of the pivoting beams 32 and the sliding beams 36 via (rotary) pin joints. The pin joints connecting the second axial ends 32b of the pivoting beams 32 to the support member 20 are slidably mounted in respective slots formed in the support member. The support member 20 has a single trailer-contacting surface 22 which is planar and parallel the base 10.

[0206] Figures 12A-12C show a variant implementation of the safety support device 100. Figures 12A and 12C show the device 100 in the storage configuration, respectively without and with the cover plate 40 and the top cover 44, while Figure 12B shows the device 100 in the use configuration.

[0207] The safety support device 100 has two pivoting beams 32 which are linear and parallel to one another, and two sliding beams 36 which are also linear and parallel to one another. The second axial end 36b of each sliding beam 36 is pivotally connected to a respective pivoting beam 32, at a location intermediate the first and second axial ends 32b of the respective pivoting beam 32.

[0208] The safety support device 100 has a slider end 107 and a pivot end 106. The slider end 107 and the pivot end 106 provide respective opposite axial ends of the safety support device 100. That is, the slider end 107 and the pivot end 106 are longitudinally opposed to one another. The slider end 107 is proximal the slider 38 (and the first axial end 36a of the / each sliding beam 36), and distal the first pivotal connection 34 (and the first axial end 32a of the / each pivoting beam 32) in both the use configuration and the storage configuration. The pivot end 106 is proximal the first pivotal connection 34 (and the first axial end 32a of the / each pivoting beam 32) and distal the slider 38 (and the first axial end 36a of the / each sliding beam 36).

[0209] The pivot end 106 of the safety support device 100 is configured to be secured to a ground surface, e.g. a ground surface of a loading bay. The pivot end 106 comprises connection elements 105 (i.e. holes) for connecting to the ground surface and engageable with fasteners such as bolts, screws or pins.

[0210] The base 10 at the pivot end 106 includes a recess 103 for accommodating the tubular support member 20 in the storage configuration. To this end, the recess 103 is shaped and sized in a corresponding manner to the support member 20. The recess 103 extends transversely, and the support member 20 is008901282 24

[0211] correspondingly perpendicular to the sliding beams 36. Thus, the support member 20 together form a T-shaped configuration (e.g. in both the storage configuration and the use configuration).

[0212] The trailer-contacting surface 22 comprises two tubular contact surfaces 22 mounted to respective different second axial ends 32b of the pivoting beams 32. The trailer contacting surfaces 22 are corrugated such that each comprises a series of parallel, alternately arranged ridges and grooves. The ridges and grooves are provided as rings of different diameters.

[0213] The safety support device 100 comprises a pair of longitudinally extending sidewalls 101, perpendicular the base 10 and parallel to one another. Each sidewall 101 comprises a respective longitudinally extending elongated slot 102.

[0214] The first axial ends 36a of the sliding beams 36 are pivotally connected to transversely opposite sides of the same slider 38. Each first axial end 36a is also connected to a respective guide element 108 via the cover plate 40 overlying said beam. Each guide element is slidably mounted inside a respective one of the longitudinally extending elongated slots 102 formed in the sidewalls 101 of the device 100. The guide elements 108 are transversely opposed to one another. The slider 38 is interposed between the guide elements 108 along the transverse axis. By virtue of sliding along the finite length of their respective elongated slots 102, the guide elements 108 guide and limit the motion of the first axial ends 36a of the sliding beams 36 along the longitudinal axis.

[0215] The safety support device 100 of this example has an electromechanical driving mechanism 70 which comprises a motor 76 connected to a lead screw 74 so as to turn the lead screw. The lead screw 74 is mounted to the base 10 along its longitudinal axis. As such, the slider 38 is indirectly connected to the base 10 via the lead screw 74. The motor 76 is mounted to the base 10 at the slider end 107 of the device 100.

[0216] As shown in Figure 12C, the safety support device 100 comprises a top cover 44 overlying the motor 76 in both the storage and the use configurations. The safety support device 100 also comprises a cover plate 40 overlying the sliding beams in the storage configuration and rigidly connected to the sliding beams. The cover plate 40 is shaped and sized to substantially match the shape and size of the top profile of the sliding beams 36.

[0217] The top cover 44 and the cover plate 40 are placed end-to-end (edge-to-edge) along the longitudinal direction.

[0218] The device 100 also comprises an initial raising mechanism. As in Figures 5-6C, the initial raising mechanism comprises a nut 82 (comprising a threaded bore) mounted on the lead screw 74 and spaced from the first pivotal connections such that the first pivotal connections are interposed between the nut 82 and the second pivotal connections. The initial raising mechanism also comprises a pair of arms 84 symmetrically provided on laterally opposite sides of the lead screw. The arms 84 are parallel to the lead screw. Each arm 84 has a respective driving end 84a connected to the nut 82 and a respective axially opposite driven end 84b.008901282 25

[0219] The base 10 comprises a pair of base ramps 14 symmetrically provided on laterally opposite sides of the lead screw. The cover plate 40 comprises a pair of plate ramps 42, provided on an underside of the top plate, facing the base 10 in the storage configuration. The plate ramps 42 are symmetrically provided on laterally opposite sides of the lead screw 74 in the storage configuration. The plate ramps overlie the base ramps 14 in the storage configuration.

[0220] Each base ramp has a single ramp surface along which the driven end 84b of the arm 84 slides. Each plate ramp 42 has a pair of transversely spaced ramp surfaces 42a along which the driven end 84b of the arm slides. In the storage configuration, the ramp surface of each base ramp sits (i.e. is nested) between the ramp surfaces of the plate ramp which overlies it. This can ensure that the arms 84 are not subject to torsion when active.

[0221] The driven end 84b of the arm 84 comprises a plate-ramp-contacting portion for contacting the plate ramp and a base-ramp-contacting portion for contacting the base ramp. Each portion is provided with a wheel 46’ to facilitate sliding along the respective ramp surfaces.

[0222] The base ramps 14 and the plate ramps 42 (and their ramp surfaces) are inclined from a portion of maximum height proximal the second pivotal connection 37 to a portion of minimum height distal the second pivotal connection.

[0223] The driven end 84b of each arm 84 is interposed between and in contact with a respective one of the base ramp 14 and the plate ramp 42. With reference to Figures 6A-6C, turning the lead screw 74 causes the nut 82 to slide towards the first pivotal connections (and towards the slider), causing the driven ends 84b of the arms 84 to slide up the ramps, thereby forcing the cover plate 40 and the second pivotal connection 37 away from the base 10 such that the sliding and pivoting beams 32 of the mount 30 are no longer co-linear.

[0224] When the nut 82 eventually makes contact with the slider 38, the driving force generated by the lead screw 74 is transferred from the nut 82 to the slider, causing the slider 38 to slide towards the first pivotal connections, which completes the transition to the use configuration. In other words, when transitioning from the storage configuration to the use configuration, the motion of the slider 38 along the leadscrew is driven by the motion of the nut 82.

[0225] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or in the following claims, or in the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for obtaining the disclosed results, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

[0226] While the invention has been described in conjunction with the exemplary embodiments described above, many equivalent modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art when given this disclosure. Accordingly, the exemplary embodiments of the invention set forth above are considered to be illustrative and not limiting. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.008901282 26

[0227] For the avoidance of any doubt, any theoretical explanations provided herein are provided for the purposes of improving the understanding of a reader. The inventors do not wish to be bound by any of these theoretical explanations.

[0228] Any section headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not to be construed as limiting the subject matter described.

[0229] Throughout this specification, including the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” and “include”, and variations such as “comprises”, “comprising”, and “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0230] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by the use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. The term “about” in relation to a numerical value is optional and means for example + / - 10%.

Claims

008901282 27Claims:

1. A safety support device for supporting a trailer, the safety support device comprising:a base;a support member configured to support a portion of the trailer; anda mount connecting the support member to the base;wherein the mount comprises:a pivoting beam having a first axial end and a second axial end, the first axial end being pivotally connected to the base via a first pivotal connection; anda sliding beam having a first axial end and a second axial end, the first axial end of the sliding beam being slidably connected to the base via a slider, wherein the first axial end of the sliding beam is pivotally connected to the slider;wherein the pivoting beam and the sliding beam are pivotally connected to one another via a second pivotal connection, and the slider is slidable along the base towards the first pivotal connection to raise the mount from a storage configuration to a use configuration in which the support member is raised away from the base.

2. The safety support device of claim 1 wherein the support member is connected to one or both of the pivoting beam and the sliding beam distal the base in the use configuration.

3. The safety support device of claim 1 or 2 wherein the safety support device further comprises a driving mechanism connected to the slider and operable so as to slide the slider along the base.

4. The safety support device of claim 3 wherein the driving mechanism is a hydraulic or pneumatic driving mechanism.

5. The safety support device of claim 3 wherein the driving mechanism is an electromechanical driving mechanism.

6. The safety support device of claim 5 wherein the electromechanical driving mechanism comprises a motor connected to a lead screw so as to turn the lead screw, and wherein the slider comprises a bore through which the lead screw is threaded.

7. The safety support device of any preceding claim wherein, in the storage configuration, the pivoting beam and sliding beam are substantially axially aligned, and the safety support device further comprises an initial raising mechanism configured to raise the second pivotal connection away from the base by a predetermined amount before sliding the slider towards the first pivotal connection.

8. The safety support device of claims 6 and 7, wherein:the second pivotal connection is rigidly connected to a cover plate; andthe initial raising mechanism comprises:a nut mounted on the lead screw and spaced from the first pivotal connection, the first pivotal connection being interposed between the nut and the second pivotal connection;008901282 28an arm having a driving end connected to the nut, and a driven end;wherein one of the base and the cover plate comprises a ramp and the driven end of the arm is in contact with the ramp and other of the base and the cover plate,wherein turning the lead screw causes the nut to slide towards the first pivotal connection, causing the driven end of the arm to slide up the ramp, thereby forcing the cover plate and the second pivotal connection away from the base.

9. The safety support device of claim 8 wherein each of the base and the cover plate comprises a ramp, the ramps at least partially overlying one another and being inclined in the same direction, wherein the driven end of the arm is in contact with both ramps.

10. The safety support device of claims 8 or 9 wherein the driven end of the arm comprises one or more wheels.

11. The safety support device of any one of claims 8 to 10 wherein the initial raising mechanism comprises:a pair of arms laterally opposed relative to the lead screw;a pair of ramps laterally opposed relative to the leadscrew.

12. The safety support device of claim 11 wherein each of the base and cover plate comprises a respective pair of ramps.

13. The safety support device of any one of claims 6 to 12 wherein the electromechanical driving mechanism comprises a plurality of lead screws.

14. The safety support device of claim 13 wherein the plurality of lead screws are driven by the same motor.

15. The safety support device of any one of the preceding claims wherein the safety support device further comprises a mounting frame configured to be permanently secured to a ground surface of a loading bay, the mounting frame at least partially circumscribing the base, and being detachably connected thereto.

16. The safety support device of claim 15 wherein the base is at least partially recessed relative to the mounting frame.

17. The safety support device of any one of the preceding claims wherein the support member has a trailer-contacting surface, which is continuous or comprises a plurality of discrete contact surfaces.

18. The safety support device of claim 17 wherein the trailer-contacting surface(s) is tubular or planar, or a combination thereof.008901282 2919. The safety support device of claim 17 or 18 wherein the trailer-contacting surface(s) is corrugated.

20. The safety support device of any one of the preceding claims wherein the mount comprises one or more wheels in contact with the base and connected to the slider so as to facilitate sliding of the slider along the base.

21. The safety support device of claim 19 wherein the mount comprises a plurality of wheels and an axle connecting the plurality of wheels, wherein the slider is mounted to the axle.

22. The safety support device of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the safety support device further comprises:one or more longitudinally extending sidewalls, each comprising a respective longitudinally extending elongated slot, anda guide element slidably mounted in each elongated slot, the / each guide element being pivotally connected to the first axial end of a respective sliding beam.

23. The safety support device of any one of the preceding claims wherein the mount comprises: a pair of pivoting beams, each having a respective first axial end and a respective second axial end, the respective first axial ends being pivotally connected to the base via a pair of respective first pivotal connections;a pair of sliding beams, each having a respective first axial end and a respective second axial end, the respective first axial ends being slidably connected to the base via the slider, wherein the respective first axial ends are pivotally connected to the slider;wherein the pair of pivoting beams are pivotally connected to the pair of sliding beams via a pair of second pivotal connections.

24. The safety support device of claim 23 wherein the mount comprises a pair of sliders and the sliding beams are connected to the base via respective different sliders.

25. A safety support device for supporting a trailer, the safety support device comprising:a base;a support member configured to support a portion of the trailer;a mount connecting the support member to the base; andan electromechanical driving mechanism connected to the mount to drive the mount between a storage configuration and a use configuration in which the support member is raised away from the base.

26. A system comprising:the safety support device of any one of the preceding claims, the safety support device comprising a driving mechanism connected to the mount to drive the mount between a storage configuration and a use configuration in which the support member is raised away from the base;one or more sensors for monitoring a position of the support member and / or the trailer; and008901282 30a master controller communicatively coupled to the safety support device and to the one or more sensors so as to receive sensor data therefrom;wherein the controller is configured to control operation of the driving mechanism based on the received sensor data.

27. A method of deploying the safety support device according to any one of claims 1 to 25 from the storage configuration to the use configuration, the method comprising:raising the mount away from the base until the support member contacts an underside of a trailer; andlowering the mount towards the base by a predetermined amount, thereby rendering the safety support device in the use configuration.

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