Extendable Loading Bridge Bascule Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dock levelers are either expensive due to complex support structures and large hydraulic devices for horizontal extension or limited in platform extension due to simpler, cost-effective 90° pivotable bascule bridges.
Innovation Solution
A dock leveler design featuring a bascule bridge with a support bearing system that distributes forces through both the rest bearing on the loading platform and a support bearing in the pit, allowing for a larger platform extension with a smaller support structure and hydraulic device, and incorporating a stop plate to prevent unintentional movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a horizontally displaceable feed bridge is used to extend the loading platform, then the platform extension is increased, but the support structure and hydraulic device become complex and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The solution divides the extension function into two independent components: a telescopic feed bridge for horizontal extension and a pivotable bascule bridge for vertical extension. Each component has its own simplified support structure, avoiding the need for a single complex horizontal extension mechanism. The feed bridge extends horizontally while the bascule bridge pivots vertically, creating segmented extension stages that reduce overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from purely horizontal extension to two-dimensional extension by adding vertical pivoting capability. The bascule bridge pivots through 90 degrees to provide vertical extension, while the feed bridge provides horizontal extension. This dimensional change allows the system to achieve greater overall extension without requiring a more complex single-dimension horizontal mechanism.
2Ease of manufacture
If a 90° pivotable bascule bridge is used, then the cost is reduced, but the platform extension is limited to 600 mm
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges two bridge types into a single system: the telescopic feed bridge and the pivotable bascule bridge. The feed bridge extends horizontally up to 500 mm, and the bascule bridge extends vertically up to 500 mm through 90-degree pivoting. Together, they provide a total extension of up to 1,000 mm, combining the cost-effectiveness of the bascule bridge design with the extended reach of the telescopic mechanism.
3Device complexity
If the support bearing is located only on the loading platform, then the structure is simple, but the loading platform deflection increases with large platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces a cross member as an intermediary support element in the pit that connects to the feed bridge. This cross member acts as a mediator between the pit floor and the feed bridge, providing additional support without requiring complex structures. The support bearing on the cross member distributes loads and reduces platform deflection while maintaining relative structural simplicity.
4Strength
If the support reaches the bottom of the pit, then maximum support is provided, but the loading platform cannot be lowered when loaded
Solution Approach 1:
The invention makes the support system dynamic by using a movable cross member on the pit floor rather than a fixed support reaching the bottom. The cross member can move horizontally along the pit floor to accommodate the lowering of the loading platform when loaded. This dynamic adjustment allows the support to maintain optimal positioning while enabling the platform to achieve maximum travel distance without the support interfering with the bottom of the pit.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4a~4
AI summary
The invention relates to a loading bridge (10) for installation in a pit in a warehouse floor, comprising a loading platform (16) that can be pivotally attached to the warehouse floor and covers the pit, a horizontally movable extension bridge (18) that extends the loading platform (16) when loaded, and a hydraulic device (22) for moving the extension bridge (18). Creating a loading bridge (10) that can be manufactured cost-effectively despite a comparatively large extension of the loading platform (16) is achieved by attaching a hinged bridge (20) to a leading edge of the extension bridge (18), which can be moved from a vertical rest position to a horizontal loading position, and by providing a rest bearing (26) below the hinged bridge (20) on which the hinged bridge (20) rests when at rest.