Adjustable Load Dock Leveler Prop for Trailer Height Variations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loading dock systems face challenges in accommodating variations in trailer and dock heights, as well as angle misalignments, which can lead to inefficient and unsafe loading and unloading processes.
Innovation Solution
A vertically adjustable load dock leveler prop comprising a dock head, stanchion, and pedestal, where the dock head supports the dock plate, the stanchion forms a load path between the dock head and pedestal, and the cant between the dock head and stanchion is adjustable to accommodate different heights and angles, ensuring stable bridging between the loading dock and trailer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed-height dock leveler is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but it cannot accommodate variations in trailer and dock heights
Solution Approach 1:
The dock leveler incorporates an adjustable height mechanism that transforms the fixed structure into a dynamic one. The telescopic stanchion with multiple locked positions allows the dock leveler to adapt to different height requirements while maintaining structural stability through locking mechanisms at each position.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the key parameter of height by providing multiple discrete adjustable positions. The stanchion can be extended or retracted to different lengths and locked at specific heights, allowing the same structure to serve multiple height requirements without requiring multiple fixed structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a rigid dock leveler structure is used, then it provides stability, but it cannot accommodate angle misalignments between dock and trailer
Solution Approach 1:
The dock leveler introduces rotational freedom at the connection points between the dock head, stanchion, and pedestal. This dynamic capability allows the structure to tilt and adjust to angle misalignments while the locking mechanisms maintain stability once the desired angle is achieved.
Solution Approach 2:
The dock leveler is divided into separable components (dock head, stanchion, pedestal) that can independently adjust their orientations. This segmentation allows each component to accommodate angular variations independently while maintaining overall structural integrity through controlled connection points.
3Strength
If the dock leveler components are tightly fitted, then structural strength is maximized, but assembly and adjustment become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The dock leveler is designed as separate modular components (dock head, stanchion, pedestal) that can be manufactured independently with standard tolerances. The segmentation allows each component to be strength-optimized separately while connection mechanisms ensure adequate load transfer without requiring tight fits across the entire assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
Connection mechanisms such as pins, bolts, or coupling elements serve as intermediaries between components. These intermediaries provide sufficient structural strength for load bearing while accommodating manufacturing tolerances and facilitating easy assembly and disassembly without requiring precision tight fits.
Data Source
AI summary
The load dock leveler prop is configured for use with a loading dock. The loading dock is further defined with a dock plate. The load dock leveler prop is a prop used to prop the dock plate when the dock plate is bridging a gap between the loading dock and a trailer. The load dock leveler prop is a vertically adjustable jack structure. The load dock leveler prop comprises a dock head, a stanchion and a pedestal. The dock head mechanically supports the inferior side of the dock plate by forming a load path between the dock plate and the stanchion. The stanchion is a supporting shaft that forms a load path between the dock head and the pedestal. The cant between the dock head and the stanchion is adjustable. The pedestal is a foundational structure that forms a load path between the stanchion and a supporting surface.