Control systems for operation of loading dock equipment, and associated methods of manufacture and use
US11926497B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 14, 2022 |
| Grant date | Mar 12, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 14, 2042 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06F3/048
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Systems and associated methods for controlling operation of loading dock equipment are described herein. In some embodiments, the system and associated methods can be used to control operation of loading dock equipment (e.g., a vehicle restraint, a dock door, a dock leveler, etc.) according to a sequence of operations. The sequence of operations can include different sub-sequences based on loading dock conditions. The system can include a display screen that sequentially presents a series of control elements that enable operation of the loading dock equipment. Additionally, the visual appearance and/or sequence of presentation of the control elements indicate the proper sequence of selection to the user, thereby reducing user confusion and simplifying the operation of the loading dock equipment. Some functionality of the control panel can be enabled or disabled based on a current level of authorization.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.