Constant radius dock leveler hinge

US7216391B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Rite-Hite Holding Corporation · US

Inventors

• Brian Bender · Racine, US
• Mike Jehn · Waukesha, US
• Pamela Pietrangelo · Oak Creek, US
• Michael A. Mitchell · Fort Mill, US
• Matthew Tourdot · West Bend, US
• Timothy Muhl · Slinger, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 18, 2003
• Grant date: May 15, 2007
• Expiry date: Dec 18, 2023

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B65G69/2811
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A dock leveling system adapted to be disposed in a pit is disclosed. A hinge member with a hinge pin receiving area and a hinge pin disposed in the hinge member defines a center of rotation. A deck that is rotatable about the hinge pin includes a curved portion with a constant radius and a center of curvature substantially similar to the center of the hinge pin. The curved portion defines an elevation that remains constant as the deck rotates about the hinge pin.