Vehicle-actuated weather barrier apparatus

US9162832B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Rite-Hite Holding Corporation · US

Inventors

• Charles Digmann · Dubuque, US
• Leif Kniese · Berlin, DE
• Rudolf Bannasch · Berlin, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 2, 2013
• Grant date: Oct 20, 2015
• Expiry date: Jul 2, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC E): Fixed Constructions
• CPC primary: E04H15/58
• WIPO field: Handling
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Example weather barrier apparatus are disclosed herein. An example weather barrier apparatus disclosed herein include rear edge seals to sealingly engage a rearward facing edge of a vehicle parked at a loading dock. In some examples, the rear edge seal is part of a pivotal upper or side seal member that also includes a surface seal. The surface seal is spaced apart from the edge seal and is to sealingly engage a side or upper surface of the vehicle. In some examples, the vehicle's side surface is the outward facing surface of the vehicle's swung-open door. In some examples, the vehicle backing against the edge seal is what deploys the side seal. Some example weather barrier apparatus disclosed herein include an upper seal member and two side seal members, where vehicle-activated movement of the upper seal and side seal members are coordinated to seek and seal against rear corners of a cargo opening of the vehicle. In some examples, one or more seal members lengthen in response to the size and position of the vehicle.