Semitrailer Loading Ramp Collision Prevention Guide Block
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semitrailer collisions with loading ramps pose significant safety risks for ramp employees due to blind spots, lack of rear camera assistance in trucks, and varying semitrailer dimensions, leading to potential collisions with both the ramp and personnel.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a guide block with a wheel blocking mechanism and multiple sensor units that detect the semitrailer's approach and position, preventing collisions by locking the wheel blocking mechanism when objects or personnel are detected within a predetermined threshold, ensuring safe alignment with the loading ramp.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a physical stop is positioned in front of the rear wheels of the semitrailer, then collision with the loading ramp is prevented, but the system becomes inapplicable due to varying semitrailer dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical physical stop with an optical sensing system (photo eyes/safety sensors) that detects the position of the semitrailer and controls the carriage position electronically, eliminating the need for a fixed mechanical stop that cannot adapt to different semitrailer dimensions
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic sensing and control where the carriage position is adjusted based on real-time detection of the semitrailer's rear end position, allowing the system to adapt to varying semitrailer dimensions rather than relying on a static mechanical stop
2Ease of operation
If the driver backs up to the loading ramp without assistance, then the operation is simple, but the distance assessment becomes difficult increasing collision risk
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides visual feedback through optical devices (photo eyes/safety sensors) that alert the driver when the semitrailer is in the correct position, enabling the driver to back up independently with accurate distance information without requiring complex assistance systems
3Reliability
If optical warning devices are present at the loading ramp, then the driver is alerted when in place, but the driver often does not pay attention and collision still occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system activates the optical warning devices in advance when the semitrailer approaches the loading ramp, providing early alerting that gives the driver sufficient time to respond and understand the warning before reaching the critical position
Solution Approach 2:
The optical devices serve as an intermediary communication channel between the loading ramp system and the driver, providing clear visual signals that bridge the information gap and improve driver awareness and compliance
4Reliability
If the wheel blocking means is always in the forwarded position, then collision prevention is maximized, but the semitrailer cannot be properly positioned for loading
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel blocking means is designed to be dynamic, moving between a retracted position (allowing the semitrailer to back up and position itself) and a forwarded position (blocking the wheels to prevent creep and collision), with the position controlled based on the detected distance to the loading ramp
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system for preventing semitrailer collisions with a loading ramp. The system comprises a sensor unit network, and a guide block.