Dock door automation system and method
US10106342B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 15, 2015 |
| Grant date | Oct 23, 2018 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 18, 2036 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG05B2219/2638
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system and method are provided for automated engaging of a truck trailer at a loading dock. Sensors measure a distance and an angle of alignment between the incoming trailer and a wall of the loading dock. An outside lighting system guides a truck driver backing the trailer toward the dock door. A vehicle restraint system fixates the trailer within the loading dock in response to signals from the sensors. An overhead dock door opens once the trailer is successfully fixated by the vehicle restraint system. A dock leveler deploys after the overhead dock door opens. An inside dock light indicates to dock personnel that the trailer is ready to be serviced. Once servicing of the trailer is finished, an automated release of the trailer from the loading dock may be initiated by PLC communication.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.