Vertically Operable Dock Restraint with Rotating Barricade and Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loading dock barricade restraints lack effective vertical securing mechanisms to maintain vehicles in place, particularly when the rear impact guard is not properly aligned or when the landing gear fails, leading to potential unsecured vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A barricade restraint system with a rotationally operable barricade member and an operable latch that secures vehicles laterally and vertically, using a locking mechanism and a verification position to ensure proper alignment and maintain the rear impact guard within the restraining area, supplemented by a tilt sensor and actuator for precise positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional barricade restraint is used to laterally secure a vehicle, then lateral positioning is achieved, but vertical securing capability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The restraining function is divided into two independent components: a barricade member for lateral securing and an operable latch for vertical securing. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in one direction, improving overall reliability while maintaining adaptability through coordinated operation of both components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a vertical dimension to the traditional horizontal barricade restraint by introducing the operable latch that moves between retracted and extended positions. This dimensional extension transforms the securing capability from single-directional to multi-directional, simultaneously improving reliability and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the barricade member is made vertically operable with an operable latch, then vertical securing capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operable latch is integrated with the barricade member as a combined unit, where the latch is coupled proximate the outer end of the barricade member. This merging reduces the need for separate mounting structures and control systems, thereby adding vertical securing capability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The barricade member serves multiple functions: it provides lateral securing when in the blocking position, supports the operable latch for vertical securing, and can be rotated between stored and blocking positions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, offsetting the complexity increase from adding vertical operability.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to secure the barricade restraint in vertical position, then vertical securing reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The operable latch is designed to be operable by the user without requiring separate locking tools or complex procedures. The latch automatically engages with the barricade member structure to provide secure locking, eliminating the need for additional manual locking steps while maintaining ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle restraint for a loading dock includes a barricade member that is rotationally operable between a stored position, a blocking position and a verification position. The barricade member in the blocking position is adapted to laterally secure a vehicle relative to the loading dock. An operable latch is coupled proximate an outer end in the barricade member. The operable latch is selectively operable between retracted and extended positions. When the barricade member is in the blocking position and the operable latch is in the extended position, the operable latch vertically secures the vehicle relative to the barricade member.