Self releasing hold-down mechanism for dock leveler
US6061859A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 25, 1998 |
| Grant date | May 16, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 25, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65G69/2841
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A self releasing hold-down device for a dock leveler having a ramp mounted for pivotal movement about a hinge axis between a stored position and a working position includes an elongates ratchet bar engageable with a pawl mounted on a body connected to a rod which is anchored at one end to the leveler frame. One end of the rod includes a retainer and release pin member mounted thereon and whose position is adjustable by a nut threadedly engaged with the rod. A coil spring is sleeved over the rod and engageable with the retainer and release pin member. The body includes an elongated tube journalling the coil spring and a portion forming a recess for supporting the pawl. A release actuator is pivotally mounted on the body and is engageable by release pins on the retainer and release pin member in response to forces acting on the ramp to effect momentary release of the hold-down device. A manual release lever is operable, at will, to also effect release of the pawl from the ratchet bar.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.