Loading Dock Control Device Vehicle Immobilization Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for controlling loading dock equipment do not adequately ensure the presence and immobilization of a road vehicle before allowing equipment movement, leading to potential operator safety risks during loading and unloading operations.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that transmit activation and locking signals between the loading dock and the road vehicle to ensure the vehicle is present and immobilized before moving equipment to the loading/unloading position, using manual actuation and signals such as electromagnetic or radio frequency signals to prevent equipment movement unless the vehicle is properly docked and immobilized.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the loading dock equipment is moved to the loading/unloading position without verifying vehicle presence and immobilization, then the loading/unloading operations can be performed without delay, but the risk of operator falling from the dock increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary verification actions before allowing equipment movement: it checks for the presence of a vehicle at the dock, verifies vehicle immobilization status, and confirms proper docking position before the loading/unloading equipment is activated. This preliminary safety verification prevents operator falls while maintaining operational efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the control unit continuously monitors vehicle presence sensors and immobilization status, then uses this feedback information to control the movement of loading/unloading equipment. The equipment only moves when feedback confirms safe conditions, creating a closed-loop safety control system.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If manual control means are made inoperative without proper vehicle verification, then operator safety is ensured, but the ease of operation decreases due to additional verification steps
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-service automation where sensors automatically detect vehicle presence and immobilization status, and the control unit automatically determines whether to enable or disable manual control means. This eliminates the need for operators to manually verify safety conditions, maintaining safety while preserving operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical verification procedures with automated electronic sensing and control systems. Vehicle presence is detected by sensors rather than manual inspection, and control means are enabled/disabled by electronic control logic rather than manual safety checks, reducing operational complexity while maintaining safety.
Data Source
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AI summary
The control device of a loading dock equipment (1) which is mobile between a non-use position and a loading/unloading position, the dock including control means (4) with manual actuation to operate the equipment (3), includes: - emission means (7) disposed on the loading dock, - control means (9) disposed on the road vehicle (20) for the transport of goods, - emission means (10) disposed on the road vehicle for the transport of goods (2), and - inhibition means.