Mobile Loading Dock Wheel Assembly Automatic Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile loading docks require manual manipulation to connect and disconnect from fork trucks, making the process time-consuming and inefficient, especially when multiple individuals are needed to position the dock for loading and unloading operations.
Innovation Solution
A mobile loading dock apparatus with a fork-engaging sleeve and wheel assembly that allows secure connection and disconnection to a fork truck without manual intervention, utilizing a slot-engaging member with a downward-protruding rod and flange-end portion for securement, and a hydraulic wheel assembly with tension springs and check valves for automatic positioning and locking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual manipulation is used to connect and disconnect the loading dock from the fork truck, then the connection can be made, but the process becomes time-consuming and requires multiple individuals
Solution Approach 1:
The loading dock system uses self-service mechanisms including automatic wheel assembly deployment that locks into place under its own weight, and a fork-engaging sleeve with slot-engaging member that automatically secures to the fork truck when inserted, eliminating the need for manual connection operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical manipulation with an automated mechanical system featuring a fork-engaging sleeve with slot-engaging member that engages with the fork truck forks through a guided slot mechanism, and a wheel assembly with automatic locking capability that substitutes for manual positioning operations
2Reliability
If a secure connection mechanism is implemented between the loading dock and fork truck, then connection safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into distinct functional components: the fork-engaging sleeve that interfaces with the fork truck, the slot-engaging member with rod and flange portions that provides the secure connection, and the arc-shaped member with tapered surface that guides and locks the engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The slot-engaging member acts as an intermediary element between the fork-engaging sleeve and the arc-shaped member, providing a mediated connection that ensures secure engagement while simplifying the overall interaction mechanism. The tapered-upward-facing surface of the slot-engaging member facilitates automatic alignment and securement without complex adjustment mechanisms
3Productivity
If the loading dock is designed for easy maneuvering, then positioning efficiency is improved, but stability during operation may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly incorporates dynamic characteristics that allow it to be easily maneuvered during positioning while maintaining stability during operation. The assembly can be rotated and repositioned efficiently, and the automatic locking mechanism ensures stability is maintained once the desired position is reached, allowing the system to transition between mobile and stable states as needed
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables the loading dock to be easily and securely connected to a fork truck, allowing for efficient movement and positioning without manual operation, reducing the need for multiple individuals and enhancing safety and efficiency in loading and unloading processes.
Implementation Method 1
a tension spring exerts a pulling force on the leg and wheel assembly to assist in erecting the wheel assembly when the lower end of the mobile loading dock is raised
Implementation Method 2
a hydraulic member simultaneously exerts a pushing force on the leg and wheel assembly to erect the wheel assembly
Implementation Method 3
The wheel assembly includes a check valve for automatic locking of the wheel assembly into a mobile position when the wheel assembly is erected
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile loading dock including a planar ramp member having an underside with a wheel assembly. The wheel assembly includes a tension spring, hydraulic member, a leg hingedly attached to the ramp underside and a wheel attached to the leg. The tension spring exerts a pulling force on the leg and wheel and the hydraulic member exerts a pushing force. The combined forces are directionally disposed to erect the wheel assembly when the lower end of the mobile loading dock is raised from a resting position in contact with the ground surface to a mobile position.