Segmented Ramp System for Safe Dock Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing loading/unloading systems in logistic warehouses pose safety risks due to reduced visibility when vehicles approach docks in reverse gear, leading to potential crushing of operators, and the current extendable ramps have limitations in extending length, causing issues with safety distance and accessibility for loading/unloading operations.
Innovation Solution
A loading/unloading station with a ramp system that includes a main platform, secondary platform, and end platform, connected by hinging means and actuators, allowing the ramp to be positioned in various configurations for safe vehicle parking and efficient loading/unloading, with motorized actuation for enhanced operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the vehicle stops closer to the dock to improve loading/unloading efficiency, then productivity increases, but the safety risk of crushing operators increases due to reduced visibility when approaching in reverse gear
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp serves as an intermediary element between the dock and the vehicle. It allows the vehicle to park at a safe distance from the dock while still enabling loading/unloading operations through the ramp's connection function. The ramp mediates the spatial gap, eliminating the need for the vehicle to be in close proximity to the dock, thus resolving the contradiction between productivity and safety.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the secondary platform is extended to increase the safety distance, then the safety risk decreases, but the accessibility for operators to open the vehicle door and unload goods deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp introduces a new dimensional element (the inclined plane) between the dock level and the vehicle loading surface. This dimensional change allows operators to access the vehicle door from the dock through the ramp structure, maintaining accessibility even when the vehicle is positioned at a safe distance. The ramp creates a new operational dimension that resolves the contradiction between safety distance and operator accessibility.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the secondary platform is extended to increase the safety distance, then the safety risk decreases, but the support stability for forklifts deteriorates due to increased leverage and reduced support area
Solution Approach 1:
The ramp is segmented into multiple platforms (main platform and secondary platform) connected by hinging means. This segmentation allows the structure to be extended to provide adequate safety distance while maintaining stability through the distributed support structure. The segmented design enables the ramp to span greater distances without compromising forklift support stability, as each segment contributes to the overall structural integrity and load distribution.
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
The system provides a safer distance for vehicle parking, improves accessibility for operators to open the vehicle door and unload goods, and ensures stable support for forklifts, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a telescopic ramp is composed of two platforms, namely an upper platform and a lower platform, which can be moved closer or further away by means of a hydraulic system
Implementation Method 2
end hinging means (C3) that connect said end platform (3) to said secondary platform (2); said end hinging means (C3) allow the end platform (3) to be in an idle position, wherein the supporting surface (S3) of the end platform (3) is orthogonal to the supporting surface (S2) of the secondary platform (2), and an operating position, wherein said two supporting surfaces (S2, S3) are coplanar
Implementation Method 3
main hinging means (C1) that connect said main platform (1) to the dock (B); said main hinging means (C1) has an axis of rotation parallel to said connection edge (RC) and allows for moving said main platform (1) between a lowered position, wherein the supporting surface (S1) of the main platform (1) is coplanar to the loading/unloading surface (SB) of the dock (B), and a raised position
Data Source
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AI summary
The present patent application for industrial invention relates to an innovative loading/unloading station comprising a ramp (R). An additional object of the present invention is a loading/unloading unit comprising a vehicle (V) and said innovative loading/unloading station. Another object of the present invention is a process used to load/unload the goods from a vehicle (V) in a loading/unloading unit comprising said ramp (R).