Adjustable mounting assemblies are disclosed. An example apparatus includes an arm to extend along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, the arm including an elongate slot to enable attachment of a fan to the arm at selectively different positions along the longitudinal axis, a first joint plate coupled to the first end of the arm, and a second joint plate coupled to the second end of the arm, the first and second joint plates structured to enable attachment to an external support structure.
A01G 9/24 - Dispositifs de chauffage, d'aération, de régulation de la température ou d'irrigation dans les serres, les châssis ou les installations similaires
2.
BARRIER SYSTEMS WITH IMPACT RESISTANT RAILS THAT EXTEND ALONG THE FLOOR
Barrier systems with impact resistant rails that extend along the floor are disclosed. A barrier system includes a base to be anchored to a floor. The base includes sidewalls defining a channel along a length of the base. The barrier system further includes a tube extending along the channel. A bottom edge of the tube to be below top edges of the sidewalls.
E01F 15/14 - Dispositions de sécurité pour ralentir, maintenir sur la route ou arrêter les véhicules à la dérive, p.ex. bornes de protection ou pieux garde-fous; Dispositions pour réduire les dommages occasionnés aux structures du bord de la route par l'impact de véhicules spécialement adaptées pour une protection localisée, p.ex. pour piles de ponts, pour îlots de circulation
3.
BARRIER SYSTEMS WITH IMPACT RESISTANT RAILS SUPPORTED FROM FLOOR MOUNTED POST BASES
Methods, apparatus, systems, and articles of manufacture for barrier systems with impact resistant rails supported from floor mounted post bases are disclosed. An apparatus includes an outer body of a post to extend upward from a ground, the post to be anchored to the ground; a rail to extend through an opening in a wall of the outer body; and a rod to extend upward from the ground within the outer body, the rod to extend through a hole in the rail.
E01F 15/04 - Barrières continues s'étendant le long des routes ou entre les voies de circulation constituées essentiellement de poutres longitudinales ou de bandes rigides
E01F 15/14 - Dispositions de sécurité pour ralentir, maintenir sur la route ou arrêter les véhicules à la dérive, p.ex. bornes de protection ou pieux garde-fous; Dispositions pour réduire les dommages occasionnés aux structures du bord de la route par l'impact de véhicules spécialement adaptées pour une protection localisée, p.ex. pour piles de ponts, pour îlots de circulation
E04H 17/14 - Clôtures construites en éléments rigides, p.ex. avec des panneaux de fil de fer supplémentaires ou avec des poteaux
4.
METHODS AND APPARATUS TO MONITOR AND/OR ADJUST OPERATIONS OF DOORS
Methods and apparatus to monitor and/or adjust operations of doors are disclosed. An apparatus includes processor circuitry to execute instructions to: monitor a position of a door panel associated with a door system; detect when a beam from a photo-eye sensor associated with the door system is in an unexpected non-triggered state based on the position of the door panel; and generate an alert or notification indicating a significance of the beam in the unexpected non-triggered state.
E05F 15/74 - Mécanismes pour battants mus par une force motrice avec déclenchement automatique sensible au déplacement ou à la présence de personnes ou d’objets utilisant des cellules photo-électriques
E06B 9/00 - Ecrans ou dispositifs de protection pour ouvertures, avec ou sans mécanismes de manœuvre ou de fixation; Fermetures de même structure
Methods and apparatus to monitor environmental conditions and reduce condensation are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a first sensor system to measure a first temperature in a first area and a second sensor system to measure a second temperature in a second area adjacent to the first area. The first area being separated from the second area by a door. A controller has at least one memory, instructions, and processor circuitry to execute the instructions to at least: compare the first temperature and the second temperature; determine if a temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature exceeds a temperature threshold; and in response to determining that the temperature difference does not exceed the temperature threshold, deactivate a fan located in the first area.
Methods and apparatus to adjust door operations in response to surface pressure loads are disclosed. An apparatus includes sensor feedback analyzer circuitry to detect a surface pressure load acting on a door based on feedback from a sensor. The door includes a panel to move along a track. The apparatus also includes operations controller circuitry to control operations of the door. The operations controller circuitry is to automatically adjust an operation of the door in response to detection of the surface pressure load.
E06B 9/68 - Dispositifs ou mécanismes de manœuvre, p.ex. à entraînement électrique
E06B 9/86 - Mesures de sécurité contre le déroulement intempestif ou l'ouverture sans autorisation; Dispositifs de freinage ou d'immobilisation; Dispositifs pour limiter le déroulement automatiques contre l'ouverture sans autorisation
Methods and apparatus to operate powered doors are disclosed. A door system includes a panel, and a track including a first track wall and a second track wall opposite the first track wall. The first and second track walls define a channel therebetween. A lateral edge of the panel is to move along the channel as the panel moves between a closed position and an open position. The door system further includes a first refeed block to be aligned with the first track wall. The first refeed block is to extend a first distance above the first track wall. The door system also includes a second refeed block to be aligned with the second track wall. The second refeed block is to extend a second distance above the second track wall. The first distance greater than the second distance.
Traffic alert devices and methods of using the same are disclosed. A traffic alert device includes a housing having a first surface to face in a first direction toward a first area, and a directional motion sensor carried by the housing. The sensor monitors motion in a second area different than the first area, the second area being in a second direction angled relative to the first direction. The traffic alert device further includes a light emitter carried by the housing, the light emitter positioned to emit light that emanates from the first surface. The light emitter generates a visual signal in response to the sensor detecting an object in the second area approaching the sensor.
Example bulkheads for enclosed cargo transporters (e.g., trailers, trucks, reefers, and containers) are disclosed. An example bulkhead includes a first panel and a second panel adjoining the first panel to define a partition that includes a first lateral edge along the first panel and a second lateral edge along the second panel. The partition has a partition width extending from the first lateral edge to the second lateral edge. A harness is structured to extend beyond the partition width. The harness includes a breakaway fastener assembly that renders the bulkhead in an operative configuration and a restorable breakaway configuration. The breakaway fastener assembly is to couple to the partition when the bulkhead is in the operative configuration, and the breakaway fastener assembly to decouple from the partition when the bulkhead is in the restorable breakaway configuration.
Example bulkheads for cargo transporters (e.g., refrigerated trailers, trucks, reefers, and containers) are disclosed. An example bulkhead includes an overhead track system mountable to an enclosed cargo transporter within a cargo storage area. A first carriage is attached to the overhead track system. The first carriage is movable relative to the overhead track system in at least one of a lateral direction or a longitudinal direction while being guided by the overhead track system. A first panel is suspended by the first carriage from the overhead track system, where the weight of the first panel is substantially supported by the overhead track system via the first carriage.
Modular compound lifts for vehicles are disclosed. An example vehicle lift disclosed herein includes a front platform to provide a base over which a vehicle is to travel. The front platform has a leading edge and a rear edge that are spaced apart relative to a longitudinal direction. A rear platform is pivotal about an axis to lift at least a rear portion of the vehicle relative to a ground surface. The rear platform is pivotal between a lowered position and a raised position relative to the front platform. The front platform does not lift relative to the ground surface when the rear platform lifts relative to the front platform.
B65G 69/00 - Mesures auxiliaires ou dispositifs utilisés en liaison avec le chargement ou le déchargement
B66F 7/22 - Châssis de levage, p.ex. pour lever des véhicules; Ascenseurs à tablier à tabliers basculants
B66F 7/24 - Châssis de levage, p.ex. pour lever des véhicules; Ascenseurs à tablier pour lever ou descendre les véhicules en utilisant leur propre puissance
12.
APPARATUS FOR TENSIONING PLIABLE AIRDUCTS WHILE SUPPORTING INTERNAL HVAC COMPONENTS
Apparatus for tensioning pliable airducts while supporting internal HVAC components are disclosed. An airduct system includes an airduct having an elongate tubular wall of a pliable material. The airduct system further includes a frame disposable inside the tubular wall of the airduct, the frame including a hoop to support the tubular wall in a radial direction, the hoop to define an opening to provide passage of a flow of air along a length of the airduct. The airduct system also includes an HVAC component disposable within the tubular wall of the airduct, the HVAC component to be attached to and supported by the frame inside the airduct, the HVAC component to adjust a characteristic of the air.
Switch arrangements for powered doors are disclosed. A door includes a panel and a track to guide movement of the panel between an open position and a closed position. The track defines a track slot extending along an exterior length of the track. The door further includes a sensor target to be carried by the panel within the track. The door also includes a sensor selectively attachable to an exterior of the track via the track slot. The sensor to detect the sensor target when the panel is in a first position. The track defines an aperture to be positioned between the sensor target and the sensor when the panel is in the first position.
Example dock leveler apparatuses are disclosed. A dock leveler apparatus includes a curtain assembly that includes an upper curtain section and a lower curtain section. The curtain assembly is movable between a folded configuration and a pendant configuration. The curtain assembly having a longer length in the pendant configuration than in the folded configuration. A connector couples to the upper curtain section to a deck pivotally coupled to a base frame of a dock leveler. A releasable coupling between the upper curtain section and the lower curtain section. The releasable coupling is to removably couple the lower curtain section and the upper curtain section.
Methods and apparatus to monitor and manage loading dock operations are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a sensor feedback analyzer to analyze feedback from sensors associated with a dock at a material handling facility to determine durations for completion of tasks in a sequence of operations associated with loading or unloading of a trailer at the dock based on the feedback. The apparatus also includes an efficiency analyzer to compare the durations to target thresholds associated with the tasks. The apparatus further includes a user interface generator to generate a user interface indicating at least one of the durations or the target thresholds.
Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture are disclosed for door curtain breakaway detection. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes a sensor to detect a lateral edge of a door curtain within a guide of a door, and a controller to identify when the door curtain transitions from an operational state to a breakaway state based on a signal from the sensor, the operational state corresponding to when the lateral edge of the door curtain is enclosed by the guide as the door curtain moves between open and closed positions, and the breakaway state corresponding to when a portion of the lateral edge of the door curtain below an upper end of the guide breaks away from the guide.
Impact resistant retractable safety barriers are disclosed. An apparatus includes a support member, a flexible elongate member to extend and retract through an opening in the support member, and a stop member including a region to interface with the flexible elongate member. The stop member engages with structure of the support member surrounding the opening to limit a distance with which the flexible elongate member extends through the opening. The stop member cooperates with the structure of the support member to maintain a gap between a surface of the region of the stop member and the structure of the support member. A width of the gap is equal to or greater than a thickness of the flexible elongate member.
Example room partitions are disclosed. An example room partition includes a plurality of poles to be suspended from a track. A curtain assembly has a plurality of sleeves through which the plurality of poles extends. The curtain assembly has a lowermost edge. An upper lock pin is attached to an upper end of a first pole of the plurality of poles and is movable between a raised lock position and a lowered unlock position relative to the first pole, the upper lock pin to be restrained when the upper lock pin is in the raised lock position, the upper lock pin to be unrestrained when the upper lock pin is in the lowered unlock position. A lower lock pin is attached to a lower end of the first pole and is movable between a descended lock position and an elevated unlock position relative to the first pole. The lower lock pin is to extend lower than the lowermost edge of the curtain assembly when the lower lock pin is in the descended lock position. The lower lock pin is to be above the lowermost edge of the curtain assembly when the lower lock pin is in the elevated unlock position.
Example axial fans (10) (overhead fans) include a set of radially extending spokes (12a, 12b, 12c) that connect a set of fan blades (14) to a motor-driven hub (16). Each spoke has at least one notch (56, 68, 70), so the spokes can be assembled in interlocking relationship with each other, such that the spokes extend at different rotational angles from the rotational axis of the hub but lie in substantially the same horizontal plane. Such an arrangement enables the spokes to support the cantilevered weight and other vertical loads exerted by the fan blades while providing a compact assembly. In some examples, a retainer (88) extends through aligned bores of several components of the fan along the axis of rotation.
Monitoring and alerting systems (10) for detecting hazardous conditions at loading docks (34) are disclosed. An example monitoring and alerting system includes a first sensor system to monitor a location of a first brace (24a) of a first dock station of the loading dock. The first brace being positionable in a first stored position, a first operative position, and a first transition position, where the first transition position is between the first stored position and the first operative position. A second sensor system is to monitor a location of a second brace (24b) of a second dock station of the loading dock adjacent the first dock station. The second brace is positionable in a second stored position, a second operative position, and a second transition position, where the second transition position is between the second stored position and the second operative position. A first signaling device (20a) at the first dock station is responsive to outputs of the first sensor system and the second sensor system. A second signaling device (20b) at the second dock station is responsive to outputs of the first sensor system and the second sensor system.
Methods, apparatus, systems and articles of manufacture are disclosed for sensing RIG positioning and vehicle restraint movement. An example method includes determining a presence of a RIG and enabling a barrier to move to an operational position when the RIG is present.
Fabric drop-down diffusers are disclosed. An example drop-down diffuser includes a first fabric sheet. The first fabric sheet is to extend away from a ceiling at a location adjacent a supply inlet. The supply inlet is to provide a flow of air toward the first fabric sheet. The example drop-down diffuser also includes a blanking sheet to restrict air flow through the first fabric sheet. The blanking sheet is to be disposed on an interior surface of the first fabric sheet. The blanking sheet has a lower permeability than the first fabric sheet.
F24F 13/068 - Bouches pour diriger ou distribuer l'air dans des pièces ou enceintes, p.ex. diffuseur d'air de plafond formées de parois, plafonds ou planchers perforés
F24F 13/08 - Organes de réglage de l'écoulement d'air, p.ex. persiennes, grilles, volets ou plaques directrices
23.
AIR BARRIER SYSTEMS FOR DATA CENTER ZONE CONTAINMENT
An example air barrier system for a data center within a building is disclosed. The example air barrier system includes a pliable barrier material to partition an area above a top of row of computer cabinets in the data center and below an overhead surface of the building. The pliable barrier material is to reduce mixing of air between first and second aisles on opposites sides of the row of computer cabinets. The example air barrier system also includes a frame to support the pliable barrier material in position when in the area above the top of the row of computer cabinets. The frame is to be supported by the row of computer cabinets without support from the overhead surface.
Pedestrian-Vehicle safety systems for loading docks are disclosed. An example system includes a first sensor system to determine a position of a vehicle relative to a pedestrian zone adjacent a dock wall of a loading dock and a second sensor system to monitor the pedestrian zone. The second sensor system to attempt to detect a pedestrian in the pedestrian zone, the second sensor system responsive to signals from the first sensor system to enable the second sensor system to dynamically change a sensing area of the pedestrian zone to maintain a delta threshold between the vehicle and the pedestrian zone in response to the vehicle moving toward a dock wall of the loading dock.
Various example vehicle restraints (10) for use at a loading dock (16) for blocking and later releasing a vehicle's rear impact guard. In some examples, the vehicle restraint includes a hook-shaped barrier (18) that rotates between a lowered position and a raised position. The barrier rotates up to block the rear impact guard and rotates down to release it. The barrier also translates or shifts forward (20) and back (22) via a secondary track (48) and between a retracted position and an extended position via a main track (44). The barrier shifts forward to relieve forward pressure that the vehicle might exert against the barrier just prior to releasing the rear impact guard.
B65G 69/00 - Mesures auxiliaires ou dispositifs utilisés en liaison avec le chargement ou le déchargement
B65G 69/34 - Accessoires, p.ex. dispositifs de retenue des véhicules, dispositifs d'immobilisation des roues, dispositifs de positionnement ou d'amortissement
A loading dock including a dock leveler movable between a standard loading position, a cross-traffic position and a below-deck loading position. The dock leveler has deck and lip movably coupled to the deck. A seal assembly is coupled to the loading dock adjacent a forward edge of the dock leveler. The seal assembly sealingly engages a front surface of a lip of the dock leveler and a rear surface of the lip when the dock leveler is positioned in a cross-traffic position or a below-dock position.
Maneuverable ergonomic trailer stands (10) are disclosed. An example portable trailer stand includes a frame having an upper ledge (26); an extendable leg (38) coupled to the frame, the upper ledge being vertically movable to selectively engage and disengage an underside of a trailer parked on a driveway based on movement of the extendable leg relative to the frame; a wheel (30) connected to the frame, the wheel to remain at a substantially fixed distance from the upper ledge as the upper ledge is vertically moved.
Methods and apparatus to monitor and manage loading docks and facility (100) operations are disclosed. The apparatus includes a data analyzer (1104) to: monitor first data indicating whether a truck trailer (300) is present at a dock (102) of the material handling facility (100); and monitor second data indicating a condition associated with a door at the dock (102), the second data being different than the first data. The apparatus further includes a notification generator to generate a notification based on the first data and the second data.
Example vehicle restraints with a barrier having rotational and translational motion are described. An example vehicle restraint includes a carriage frame movable vertically relative to the dock. A drive shaft is supported by the carriage frame. A drive unit is to rotate the drive shaft about a shaft axis and relative to the carriage frame. A hub is connected to rotate with the drive shaft about the shaft axis, the hub having an outer diameter surface that is radially off center relative to the shaft axis. A barrier defines a bore that encircles the outer diameter surface of the hub. The barrier is movable selectively to an extended position and a retracted position. The barrier being connected to move selectively to the extended position and the retracted position in response to relative rotation between the outer diameter surface of the hub and the bore of the barrier.
Methods and apparatus to wirelessly interlock doors are disclosed. A door system includes a user interface to receive interlock configuration data input from a user, the interlock configuration data to define an interlock condition to be satisfied before a first door is to undergo an operation, the interlock condition associated with a current state of a second door. The door system includes a first wireless transceiver to receive a signal from a second wireless transceiver associated with a second door. The method includes a door operation controller to at least one of (1) implement the operation of the first door in response to a request when the current state of the second door satisfies the interlock condition, (2) ignore the request, or (3) not execute the operation of the first door in response to the request when the current state of the second door does not satisfy the interlock condition.
Illuminating fans for loading docks are disclosed. An example illuminating fan includes a housing defining an airflow chamber and an electrical chamber divided by an internal wall of the housing. The illuminating fan also includes a fan wheel mounted for rotation within the airflow chamber. The fan wheel is driven by a fan motor to generate a current of air passing through the airflow chamber. The illuminating fan further includes a lamp supported by the housing. The lamp is wired to an electrical circuit at least partially contained within the electrical chamber.
F21V 33/00 - Combinaisons structurales de dispositifs d'éclairage avec d'autres objets, non prévues ailleurs
F21V 15/01 - Boîtiers, p. ex. matériau ou assemblage de parties du boîtier
F21V 23/00 - Agencement des éléments du circuit électrique dans ou sur les dispositifs d’éclairage
F21V 29/67 - Dispositions de refroidissement caractérisées par l’utilisation d’un écoulement forcé de gaz, p.ex.de l’air caractérisées par la disposition de ventilateurs
B65G 69/28 - Rampes de chargement; Quais de chargement
F24F 13/078 - Bouches pour diriger ou distribuer l'air dans des pièces ou enceintes, p.ex. diffuseur d'air de plafond combinées avec des installations d'éclairage
F04D 27/00 - Commande, p.ex. régulation, des pompes, des installations ou des systèmes de pompage spécialement adaptés aux fluides compressibles
A conveyor including a fence assembly having a plurality of channel segments, at least a base channel segment, an intermediate channel segment, and a distal channel segment. The fence assembly is adjustable in a lengthwise direction such that the fence assembly is longer in the lengthwise direction when a main conveyor assembly is in a fully extended configuration than when the main conveyor assembly is in a fully retracted configuration. The intermediate channel segment is interposed between the base channel segment and the distal channel segment with respect to the lengthwise direction. Each channel segment of the plurality of channel segments includes sidewalls extending upward from a bottom panel. The intermediate channel segment to move in translation in the lengthwise direction relative to an intermediate conveyor section. The bottom panel of the intermediate channel segment is positioned between an upper portion of a conveyor belt of the main conveyor assembly and an upper load bearing surface of the intermediate conveyor section.
B65G 21/14 - Châssis ou carters de support ou de protection pour transporteurs sans fin ou éléments de traction des transporteurs à courroies ou à chaînes mobiles ou à pièces interchangeables ou relativement mobiles; Dispositifs pour déplacer le châssis ou des parties de celui-ci pour permettre le réglage de la longueur ou du profil des porte-charges ou de l'élément de traction
B65G 21/20 - Moyens incorporés ou fixés au châssis ou aux carters pour guider les porte-charges, les éléments de traction ou les charges portées sur les surfaces mobiles
33.
A RESTRAINT SYSTEM FOR A FREIGHT TRANSPORTER AND A RELATED METHOD
A vehicle restraint system to restrain or monitor a freight transporter near a platform structure of a loading dock and related method are disclosed. The restraint system comprising a wheel chock having an inclined tire-engaging surface, the wheel chock being movable selectively to a stored position, a wheel blocking position at which the wheel chock is to engage the freight transporter, and a displaced position, the wheel chock being closer to the platform structure when the wheel chock is in the stored position than when the wheel chock is in the wheel blocking position, the wheel chock being closer to the platform structure when the wheel chock is in the wheel blocking position than when the wheel chock is in the displaced position. The restraint system further comprising a measurement system to measure a distance between the wheel chock and a reference to detect if the wheel chock moves a predetermined distance relative to the wheel blocking position.
Inflatable weather barriers for loading docks are disclosed. An example weather barrier includes an upper bellows defining a header air chamber between a top portion and a bottom portion of the upper bellows. A blower is in fluid communication with the header air chamber and the blower is selectively activated to discharge a pressurized air into the header air chamber to urge the upper bellows from a raised position toward a lowered position. The weather barrier includes a first extension spring that is under a first extension spring tension, a first pulley, and a first elongate member that is pliable. The first elongate member is under a first elongate member tension that urges the upper bellows toward the raised position. The first elongate member is wrapped at least partially around the first pulley and the first extension spring being connected to the first pulley such that the first pulley transmits the first extension spring tension to the first elongate member to subject the first elongate member to the first elongate member tension.
Fabric drop-down diffusers are disclosed. An example drop-down diffuser includes an upper panel including an upper fabric sheet to be held in radial tension by an upper hoop. The upper panel defines a supply air inlet. The example drop-down diffuser further includes a lower panel to be underneath and spaced apart from the upper panel. The example dropdown diffuser also includes a circumferential fabric sheet to encircle the upper panel and the lower panel. The circumferential fabric sheet is to extend downward from the upper panel to the lower panel to define an air chamber bordered by the upper panel, the lower panel and the circumferential fabric sheet. The air chamber is connected in fluid communication with the supply air inlet.
Pedestrian-Vehicle safety systems for loading docks are disclosed. An example system includes pedestrian sensors to monitor a first pedestrian zone and a second pedestrian zone in front of a dock face of a loading dock. The at least one pedestrian sensors to attempt to detect a pedestrian in at least one of the first pedestrian zone or the second pedestrian zone. The first pedestrian zone is different than the second pedestrian zone. A first vehicle detector is to attempt to detect a vehicle near the first pedestrian zone and a second vehicle detector is to attempt to detect the vehicle near the second pedestrian zone. A sensor manager is to disable the first pedestrian zone when the first vehicle detector detects the vehicle approaching the first pedestrian zone and the at least one pedestrian sensors does not detect the pedestrian in the first pedestrian zone. The sensor manager is to disable the second pedestrian zone when the second vehicle detector detects the vehicle approaching the second pedestrian zone and at least one of the at least pedestrian sensors does not detect the pedestrian in the second pedestrian zone.
Cooling systems for devices arranged in rows are disclosed. An example cooling system includes an inflatable air duct to be positioned above a cold aisle defined between two rows of electronic equipment. The inflatable air duct is to be air permeable to deliver conditioned air into the cold aisle. The electronic equipment has fans to force cool air within the cold aisle through the electronic equipment to adjacent hot aisles on opposite sides of the two rows of the electronic equipment. The inflatable air duct to be spaced apart from the rows of computers such that the cold aisle is in unobstructed fluid communication with the adjacent hot aisles over top of the rows of electronic equipment. The conditioned air delivered from the inflatable air duct to substantially prevent a mixing of warm air in the hot aisles with the cool air in the cold aisle.
Adjustable lateral seals for loading dock barriers are disclosed. An example barrier includes a header structure coupled to the wall, where the header structure is horizontally elongate, extending above the doorway, and protrudes in the forward direction from the wall. A lateral seal is coupled to the wall. The lateral seal is vertically elongate and extends below the header structure. The lateral seal extends farther into a cargo passageway of a loading dock when the weather barrier is in a relaxed configuration than when the weather barrier is in an activated configuration. The lateral seal is to be engage by a vehicle when the vehicle is in a parked position. The lateral seal including an upper seal segment and a lower seal segment, the upper seal segment to move between a lowered position and a raised position relative to the lower seal segment. A flexible elongate member has an upper end coupled to the header structure and a lower end coupled to the upper seal segment. The flexible elongate member is to deflect from a relaxed position to a deflected position. The upper seal segment to move from the lowered position to the raised position in response to the flexible elongate member deflecting from the relaxed position to the deflected position.
A safety systems for use at a loading dock is disclosed. An example safety system includes a sensor installed at the loading dock. The sensor provides a feedback signal in response to sensing the vehicle. An alarm device is mounted below a lowest elevation of the doorway. The alarm device is positioned between the first lateral plane and the second lateral plane of the doorway. An alarm signal is emitted by the alarm device in response to the feedback signal. The alarm device is mounted on a vehicle restraint.
B65G 69/34 - Accessoires, p.ex. dispositifs de retenue des véhicules, dispositifs d'immobilisation des roues, dispositifs de positionnement ou d'amortissement
B65G 69/00 - Mesures auxiliaires ou dispositifs utilisés en liaison avec le chargement ou le déchargement
B65G 69/28 - Rampes de chargement; Quais de chargement
A weather barrier for a vehicle loading dock is disclosed which includes a side support member being vertically elongate between an upper end and a lower end of the side support member. A vertically elongate front sheet includes a pliable sheet having a proximal end and a distal end, where the proximal end is to attach to the front end of the side support member. The front sheet extends in a lateral direction from the proximal end to the distal end, where the lateral direction is horizontal and perpendicular to the forward direction. The front sheet is to extends in front of the doorway. A stay is to be coupled to the front sheet. The stay is resiliently flexible and horizontally elongate. The stay is to subject the front sheet to tension in a horizontal direction.
Puncture resistant seals for loading docks are disclosed. An example weather barrier disclosed herein includes a canopy having a back end and a front end, where the back end is mountable to a wall above a doorway and the front end is to protrude forward from the wall when the canopy is mounted to the wall. A front bar is at the front end of the canopy and the front bar is horizontally elongate. A back curtain hangs from the front bar. The back curtain has an upper curtain edge attached to the front bar. The back curtain has a lower curtain edge that is at a lower elevation than an elevation of the upper doorway edge when the canopy is mounted to the wall. The back curtain has a curtain width. A front panel hangs in front of the back curtain. The front panel is less flexible than the back curtain. The front panel has a panel width that is approximately 50 to 80 percent of the curtain width. A space is interposed between and defined by the front panel and the back curtain.
Bumpers (12) for use at loading docks are disclosed. An example bumper (12) includes a housing (100) defining a lip-engaging surface (90) to engage a lip (18) of a deck (22) when the lip (18) is in a retracted position, and a RIG-engaging surface (88) positioned adjacent the lip-engaging surface (90). The RIG-engaging surface (88) is movable relative to the lip-engaging surface (90). The RIG- engaging surface (88) is to move relative to the lip-engaging surface (90) when a RIG (44) of a vehicle (16) imparts a force to the RIG- engaging surface (88) when the vehicle (16) is at a loading dock (10).
Insulated doors with restorable breakaway sections are disclosed. An example door includes a first panel assembly including a leading panel and a trailing panel. The leading panel is to be in substantially coplanar alignment with the trailing panel when the first panel assembly is in a normal configuration. The leading panel is to be angularly displaced out of coplanar alignment with the trailing panel when the first panel assembly is in a dislodged configuration. The example door further includes a tension member to connect the leading panel to the trailing panel. The tension member is to resiliently urge the leading panel and the trailing panel toward each other in a horizontal direction. The tension member is to resiliently urge the first panel assembly toward the normal configuration when the first panel assembly is in the dislodged configuration.
An example retractable bollard system for installation in a support surface that includes pavement is disclosed. The example bollard system includes a shell that when installed in the support surface extends below an upper surface of the pavement. The example bollard system includes a post to be telescopically coupled to the shell. The post is axially movable relative to the shell selectively to an upper area and a lower area. The post extends farther above the shell when the post is in the upper area than when the post is in the lower area. The example bollard system further includes a shock absorber to encircle the shell. The shock absorber is made of a polymeric material.
E01F 13/04 - Dispositions pour interdire ou limiter la circulation, p.ex. portes, barrières pouvant être déplacées pour permettre ou empêcher le passage
A seal for a door includes a first mounting rail (308) and a second mounting rail (310) spaced apart from the first mounting rail (308). The seal further includes a flexible sheet (144) extending between the first mounting rail (308) and the second mounting rail (310). The flexible sheet (144) is to be biased away from the first and second mounting rails to sealingly engage the door (102) when the door is in a closed position.
An example cooling system for a datacenter is disclosed. The datacenter includes a plurality of computers arranged in a row within a building. The row of computers separates a cold aisle and a hot aisle. The row of computers defines an air passageway between the cold aisle and the hot aisle. The row of computers is associated with a top surface that is below and spaced apart from an overhead surface of the building to define a gap between the top surface and the overhead surface. The example cooling system includes an inflatable air duct to be disposed within the gap. The inflatable air duct has selectively an inflated state and a deflated state. The inflatable air duct filling more of the gap when the inflatable air duct is in the inflated state than when the inflatable air duct is in the deflated state.
Dynamically configurable traffic controllers and methods of using the same are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a first display facing a first direction; a second display facing a second direction; a third display facing a third direction; and a processor, in response to a first input being received indicative of traffic approaching the first display and no traffic approaching the second display and the third display, the processor to cause the second display and the third display to display a first signal and for the first display not to display the first signal or a second signal, the first signal providing a first warning level, the second signal providing a second warning level greater than the first warning level, the first signal illuminatable on the second display, the second signal illuminatable on the second display, the first signal, when illuminated, disposed within a perimeter of the second signal, when illuminated.
Methods and apparatus for monitoring a dock leveler are disclosed. An example method for monitoring a loading dock includes determining if a door at a doorway of a loading dock is in an open position; determining if a vehicle is present at the doorway; determining if a body is present in a first area of the loading dock, the first area including a deck positioned adjacent the doorway; and determining if a body is present in a second area of the loading dock adjacent the doorway, the second area including only a portion of a deck adjacent the doorway.
Example lateral sealing members for use with weather barriers are disclosed.. An example lateral sealing member (30) includes a lateral sealing member being vertically elongate. The lateral sealing member has a J-shaped cross-section extending between an attached end and (54) a tip (60) of the lateral sealing member. The lateral sealing member has a groove along the tip. The lateral sealing member is movable between an activated configuration and a relaxed configuration. The tip to extend farther into a vehicle pathway when the lateral sealing member is in the relaxed configuration than when the lateral sealing member is in the activated configuration. A tip seal (80, 94) is provided along the tip of the lateral sealing member. The tip seal is to protrude in the groove.
Door curtains with position sensor switches are disclosed. An example door (12) for selectively blocking and unblocking a passageway includes a frame (24) to be adjacent the passageway. The example door (10) includes a curtain (12) moveable selectively to a closed position and a first open position, where the curtain (12) blocks the passageway in the closed position, and the curtain (12) unblocks the passageway in the first open position. The example door (10) also includes a bracket (46) attached to the frame (24). The bracket (46) is movable selectively to a normal position and a displaced position relative to the frame (24). The example door (10) further includes a switch (28) attached to the bracket (46) and in sensing relationship with the curtain (12). The curtain (12) supports at least some weight of the bracket (46) when the bracket is in the displaced position. The curtain supports no weight of the bracket when the bracket is in the normal position.
Example room dividers are disclosed herein. An example room divider includes a first panel and a second panel. A first seal between the first panel and the second panel is to provide a first line of contact with at least one of the first panel or the second panel. A second seal between the first panel and the second panel is to provide a second line of contact with at least one of the first panel or the second panel. A touch-and-hold fastener connects the first panel and the second panel. The touch and-hold fastener is positioned between the first line of contact and the second line of contact.
E06B 5/02 - Portes, fenêtres ou fermetures analogues à buts particuliers; Structures de cadrage à leur effet pour constructions annexes ou caves; Autres fermetures simples non conçues pour être bien ajustées
Fabric silencers for air ducts are disclosed. An example air duct silencer system includes an inner tube being of a first pliable material, the inner tube defining an airway extending along the inner tube. The example air duct silencer system further includes an outer tube being of a second pliable material, the outer tube to encircle the inner tube to define an annular space between the outer tube and the inner tube. The example air duct silencer system also includes a sound absorbing material to be disposed within the annular space.
Connector (10a, 10b, l0g, l0e, l0f, 10c) apparatus for wall panels (12a, 12b, 12d, 12e) are disclosed herein. An example room divider (16) includes a first curtain (12a), a second curtain (12b) spaced from the first curtain, and a connector (10a) to couple the first curtain and the second curtain. The connector includes a first flange (52), a second flange (54) and a web (56), the web (56) lying between the first flange (52) and the second flange (54) such that the first flange, the second flange and the web overlap each other. A first pocket (66) is defined by the first flange and the web, where the first curtain (12a) extends into the first pocket (66) between the first flange and the web. A second pocket (68) is defined by the second flange and the web, where the second curtain (12b) extends into the second pocket (68) between the second flange and the web. A fastener (74) coupled to the connector, where the fastener (74) penetrates the first curtain (12a), the second curtain (12b), the web (56), the first flange (52) and the second flange (54).
E04B 2/72 - Murs faits d'éléments de forme relativement mince
E04B 2/74 - Cloisons mobiles ne supportant pas de charge; Cloisons à bord supérieur libre
E04G 21/30 - Mesures de sécurité ou de protection pour éviter d'endommager les parties du bâtiment ou les finitions pendant la construction contre les dommages mécaniques ou la saleté, p.ex. couvertures de protection pour escaliers
E04G 21/24 - Mesures de sécurité ou de protection pour éviter d'endommager les parties du bâtiment ou les finitions pendant la construction
54.
METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING A DOCK LEVELER
Methods and apparatus for monitoring a dock leveler (16) are disclosed herein. One example dock leveler system for use at a doorway (22) of a loading dock (10), where a body (12) is sometimes present at the loading dock, includes a deck (14) movable between a raised position and a lowered position. The example dock leveler system also includes a sensor (30) having a field of view (32) extending over the deck when the deck is in the lowered position. The sensor is in a normal state when the deck is in the lowered position while the body is off the deck, the sensor is in a triggered state when the deck is in the lowered position while the body is on the deck interrupting the field of view, and the sensor is in the triggered state when the deck is in the raised position with the deck interrupting the field of view regardless of whether the body is on or off the deck.
Example weather barrier apparatuses for sealing or sheltering vehicles at loading docks are disclosed herein. An example apparatus includes a first seal to be engaged by a vehicle as the vehicle moves between a departed position and a parked position relative to the first seal. The first seal has a penetration portion movable between a relaxed condition when the vehicle releases the first seal and an activated condition when the vehicle engages the first seal. A second seal is coupled adjacent the first seal. The second seal has an opening to be positioned adjacent the penetration portion of the first seal such that at least a portion of the penetration portion extends across at least a portion of the opening when the first seal is in the relaxed condition, and the opening of the second seal receives at least the penetration portion of the first seal when the first seal is in the activated condition.
Systems and methods to retain and refeed door curtains are disclosed. A door (10) is disclosed that includes a track (16) and a curtain (14) that includes a leading section (18). The curtain (14) is to be in at least one of a breakaway state or a normal state, and in at least one of a folded condition or an unfolded condition while in the breakaway state such that: (a) in the normal state, a lateral section in an area proximate the leading section (18) is in guiding engagement with the track (16); (b) in the breakaway state while in the folded condition, the lateral section (19) in the area proximate the leading section (18) is dislodged from the track (16) and folded over onto the main section to define an enfolded space; and (c) in the breakaway state while in the unfolded condition, the lateral section (19) in the area proximate the leading section (18) is dislodged from the track (16) but not folded over onto the main section. The example door (10) also includes an unfolder (200) to be in a position to engage the lateral section (19) proximate the enfolded space as the leading section moves toward an open position while the curtain (14) is in the folded condition.
Example methods and systems to indicate the status of door operations are disclosed. An example door system includes a door panel having a leading edge to be moved in a travel direction between an open position and a closed position relative to the doorframe. The door panel to block the passageway when the leading edge is at the closed position. The door panel to unblock the passageway when the leading edge is at the open position. The example door system also includes a series of lights distributed along the travel direction proximate the doorframe. The example door system further includes a controller to switch the lights between a first state and a second state to provide a visual effect of movement corresponding to the operating status of the door system.
E06B 9/68 - Dispositifs ou mécanismes de manœuvre, p.ex. à entraînement électrique
E06B 9/82 - Mesures de sécurité contre le déroulement intempestif ou l'ouverture sans autorisation; Dispositifs de freinage ou d'immobilisation; Dispositifs pour limiter le déroulement automatiques
G08B 5/36 - Systèmes de signalisation optique, p.ex. systèmes d'appel de personnes, indication à distance de l'occupation de sièges utilisant une transmission électromécanique utilisant des sources de lumière visible
H02J 7/00 - Circuits pour la charge ou la dépolarisation des batteries ou pour alimenter des charges par des batteries
E05F 15/668 - Mécanismes pour battants mus par une force motrice utilisant des actionneurs électriques utilisant des électromoteurs rotatifs pour battants à coulissement vertical pour battants s’ouvrant de haut en bas
E05F 15/70 - Mécanismes pour battants mus par une force motrice avec déclenchement automatique
E05F 15/77 - Mécanismes pour battants mus par une force motrice avec déclenchement automatique utilisant une commande sans fil
E05F 15/78 - Mécanismes pour battants mus par une force motrice avec déclenchement automatique utilisant une commande sans fil utilisant des faisceaux lumineux
E05F 15/79 - Mécanismes pour battants mus par une force motrice avec déclenchement automatique utilisant une commande temporelle
Example vehicle alignment systems for use at loading docks are disclosed herein. An example vehicle alignment system includes a sensor system to detect a surface of a vehicle, where the sensor system obtains a feedback signal representative of a spatial orientation of the detected surface relative to a reference as the vehicle approaches a doorway of the loading dock. A controller detects a threshold deviation in the spatial orientation of the detected surface of the vehicle relative to the reference based on the feedback signal. A display varies an output signal in response to the detected deviation in the spatial orientation of the detected surface relative to the reference.
Pedestrian-Vehicle safety systems for loading docks are disclosed herein. An example method disclosed herein includes sensing whether a person (12) is within a certain area (52a) adjacent a dock face (22) of a loading dock (14), emitting a first signal in response to sensing the person being present within the certain area, sensing rearward movement of a vehicle (10) toward the dock face, emitting a second signal in response to sensing rearward movement of the vehicle while the person is not present in the certain area, and emitting a third signal in response to sensing both the rearward movement of the vehicle and the person being present within the certain area.
Example air duct assemblies include a pliable air duct supported such that the duct is maintained in a generally expanded shape even when the duct is deflated. In some examples, a series of hangers suspend the duct from one or more cables, tracks or other type of overhead support. The hangers are spaced apart and distributed over the length of the duct, and each one contributes in pulling the duct taut in the ducts longitudinal direction.
The article and document merging conveyor (300) has an article merging conveyor (315), a document merging conveyor (303) and a conflated conveyor (302). The article merging conveyor (315) has an article conveying surface (316) adapted to convey articles (304) and a front edge (319). The document merging conveyor (303) has a document conveying surface (306) adapted to convey documents. The document conveying surface is located below the article conveying surface (316). The document merging conveyor (303) extends beyond the front edge (319) of the article conveying surface (316).
B65G 54/02 - Transporteurs non mécaniques, non prévus ailleurs électrostatiques, électriques ou magnétiques
B65B 61/20 - Dispositifs accessoires, non prévus ailleurs, opérant sur feuilles, flans, bandes, attaches, réceptacles ou paquets pour ajouter des cartes, des coupons ou d'autres encarts au contenu
62.
SHIELDS OR SEALS TO SHELTER AN AREA UNDERNEATH A DOCK LEVELER
An example dock leveler disclosed herein includes a deck and a lip structure translatable relative to the deck. A frame is disposed within a pit underneath the deck and includes a deck-supporting surface. A deck-supporting foot extends from the lip structure to engage the deck-supporting surface. A weather shield has a lower end and an upper end, the lower end of the weather shield coupled to at least one of the frame and a wall of the pit, the upper end of the weather shield is carried by the lip structure, the lower end of the weather shield is positioned forward of the deck-supporting foot when the deck is in a cross-traffic position while the lip structure is in a retracted position, and the deck-supporting foot is positioned forward of the lower end of the weather shield when the lip structure is in an extended position.
Example dock leveler safety systems (12a-f) for vertically storing dock levelers (24) are disclosed herein. An example dock leveler safety system disclosed herein may be used at a dock platform (16) in a pit (26) having a pit floor (28), where the pit floor is at a lower elevation than the dock platform and the dock platform and the pit floor define the pit. The dock leveler safety system comprises a deck (30) to pivot relative to the dock platform between an upright position and a lowered position such that the deck extends farther over the pit floor when the deck is in the lowered position than when the deck is in the stored upright position. A sensor (54) monitors a sensed region (56) within the pit when the deck is in the upright position and the sensor provides a reaction signal (60) in response to a body (50) being detected within the sensed region. The deck enters a state of restricted movement in response to the reaction signal.
Dock leveler safety systems (12a-12l) for vertically storing dock levelers (24) are disclosed herein. An example method for sensing a body (50) present within an area of a pit (26) at a loading dock (14) includes monitoring the area of the pit via a sensor system (521) by capturing an image of the area, comparing the captured image to a reference image to determine whether a body is present in the area of the pit, and commanding a deck (30) of a dock leveler to not lower relative to the pit if the body is present.
Weather barrier (10) with a side seal member (34a) to be vertically elongate and having a front surface facing away from a doorway, the side seal member (34a) extending laterally farther into a cargo passageway when its front surface (98) is engaged by a vehicle. The apparatus also includes an upper seal member (28) to hang in front of the side seal member (34a), the upper seal member (28) being horizontally elongate and having a lower corner point (72) proximate the side seal member (34a), the front surface (98) facing away from the lower corner point (72) when the vehicle presses against the barrier (10).
Example weather barrier apparatuses (10) disclosed herein include vehicle-actuated mechanisms for forcibly pressing a seal member down against a roof of a vehicle (14) parked at a loading dock (16). In some examples, rather than relying on gravity alone, rearward movement of the vehicle mechanically expands a seal member (38) to create sufficient reach and sealing pressure to press the expandable seal member firmly against vehicle roofs (14) of various heights and positions. In some examples, an example vehicle-actuated mechanism disclosed herein forces a compressible seal down against the vehicle's roof and maintains a compressive sealing force over a range of roof heights and positions. Some example weather barrier apparatuses disclosed herein include example means for mitigating certain jam conditions.
A weather barrier apparatus (10) includes rear edge seals (24, 26) to sealingly engage a rearward facing edge (28) of a vehicle (12) parked at a loading dock (14). In some examples, the rear edge seal (24, 26) 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 (142, 148) and is to sealingly engage a side or upper surface (82, 130) of the vehicle (12). In some examples, the vehicle's side surface (130) is the outward facing surface of the vehicle's swung-open door (132). In some examples, the vehicle (12) backing against the edge seal (26) is what deploys the side seal (24). Some example weather barrier apparatus (10) include an upper seal member (24) and two side seal members (26), where vehicle-activated movement of the upper seal and side seal members (24, 26) are coordinated to seek and seal against rear corners (30) of a cargo opening of the vehicle (12). In some examples, one or more seal members (26) lengthen in response to the size and position of the vehicle (12).
Systems and methods to retain and refeed door curtains are disclosed. An example door is disclosed that includes first and second tracks. The example door includes a retainer borne by the first track and an alignment guide associated with the first track. The example door also includes a curtain extending laterally between the first and second tracks. The curtain has a leading edge selectively movable between a closed position and an open position. The example door includes a primary projection borne by the curtain that is in guiding engagement with the retainer within the first track. The primary projection is dislodged from the track when the curtain is in the breakaway state. The example door includes a secondary projection borne by the curtain and arranged to travel outside of the alignment guide when the leading edge is traveling between the open position and the closed position.
Example manual wheel restraint systems and methods for restraining a vehicle at a loading dock include are disclosed herein. An example wheel restraint disclosed herein includes a retractable wheel-blocking barrier mounted to a carrier that can be repositioned along a track, where the track is anchored to a driveway of a loading dock. The track runs generally parallel to a vehicle path that a wheel of a vehicle travels along as the vehicle backs into the dock. To block a rear wheel of the vehicle parked at the dock, the barrier extends laterally into the wheel path, adjacent or in front of the wheel. To release the vehicle, the barrier retracts out from within the wheel path. In some examples, to ensure that the vehicle is secured, the barrier and/or the carrier include barrier or carrier catches to help hold the barrier and carrier in a fixed position. In some examples, one or more sensors determine or sense whether the catches are secured or released and generate signals accordingly. The signals, in some examples, alert dock personnel of the condition of the catches.
Methods and apparatus for video based process monitoring and control are disclosed. An example method for monitoring a process having at least one state includes obtaining a first set of images of the process and identifying from the first set of images at least one reference image that corresponds to the at least one state. The example method also includes obtaining at least one analysis image of the process. The example method further includes comparing the analysis image to the at least one reference image using digital analysis. The example method also includes determining whether the analysis image corresponds to the at least one state based on the comparison.
Motion sensing dock lighting systems are disclosed. An example lighting system for use at a loading dock where a material handling device is used to load or unload a vehicle parked at the loading dock includes a motion sensing system to be spaced apart from the material handling device. The motion sensing system is to provide an operation signal in response to the material handling device undergoing a change in travel direction within the vehicle. The example lighting system also includes a lamp to be operatively connected in signal communication with the motion sensing system so as to receive the operation signal from the motion sensing system. The lamp is to have a first illuminating mode and a second illuminating mode, and the lamp is to switch between the first illuminating mode and the second illuminating mode in response to the operation signal.
Example panel assemblies with frost inhibiting seal members are disclosed herein. Some example panel assemblies disclosed herein are particularly suited for creating a blast freezer (for food and other products) by using the panels in cordoning off a relatively small quick-freeze area within a larger freezer room. In some examples disclosed herein, a touch-and-hold fastener (e.g., VELCRO) connects two or more insulated flexible panels along their adjoining vertical edges to span the width of a supporting frame that is wider than a width of a single panel. To seal the joint and/or inhibit frost from developing along the joint, some example panel assemblies disclosed herein include a seal member with touch-and-hold elements plus sealing edges extending laterally in opposite directions. In some examples disclosed herein, the touch-and-hold elements couple two panels together while the sealing edges (e.g., foam strip or double looped sheet of material) block air from flowing through the touch-and-hold elements.
Example vehicle restraints having example anti-rotation features are disclosed herein. In some examples, an actuator in the form of a hydraulic cylinder moves both a vehicle barrier and its brace between stored and activated positions. If the vehicle pushes the barrier from an upper blocking position to an intermediate blocking position, the brace helps support the barrier at the intermediate blocking position to prevent the vehicle from further pushing the barrier to its stored position. To avoid damaging a cover plate or other relatively weak areas of a vehicle's RIG (rear impact guard), some example barriers disclosed herein exert a holding force that is less at the upper blocking position than at the intermediate blocking position.
Example trolleys and hangers for washdown curtains are disclosed herein. An example trolley disclosed herein includes features that simplify manufacturing and promote liquid runoff to avoid bacterial growth. Some example trolleys comprise U-bolts, shoulder screws and acorn nuts. In some examples, a frame of the trolley has a nestable V-shape profile that makes the frame readily blanked and formed from sheet metal with minimal waste. In some examples, an example trolley disclosed herein has a pair of rollers that are horizontally offset to a point from which the curtain hangs so that the weight of the curtain tilts the trolley to promote liquid runoff from the trolley's frame.
Example insulated pliable door panels or curtains include various internal vapor barriers. The vapor barriers have a relatively high water vapor transmission rate that inhibits water vapor from permeating through the door panel. With such vapor barriers, outer sheets of the door panel can be made of polyurethane or other tough materials that might have an inadequate water vapor transmission rate. In some examples, the vapor barrier (54) encircles or encloses a thermally insulating pad. In some examples, the door panel (12) includes a sleeve or pocket (66) that holds the vapor barrier in place. Some examples include means (58) for draining water that might condense within the door panel (12).
Example doors having a seal attached to an edge member of a door panel are disclosed herein. An example seal includes a flexible sheet of material with its longitudinal edges turned inward toward a more central portion of the sheet such that the sheet is turned partially or somewhat inside-out to provide a bulging seal geometry that is favorable for sealing in multiple directions. The seal, for example, is suitable for sealing in a head-on direction engaging an abutting surface, such as a doorjamb. The seal can also seal in sliding engagement with an adjacent surface parallel to the door panel. In some examples, the sheet defines a hollow chamber in which the longitudinal edges of the sheet reinforce or brace an exterior curved portion of the seal. In some examples, the sheet of material is a unitary seamless piece with an attached touch-and-hold fastener that makes the seal readily replaceable.
Example flexible face panels (12) for dock shelters and dock seals at a loading dock (20) include a tip seal (58) and/or an air-filled blister (14) or elongate "bubble" that sealingly conforms to a rear portion of a vehicle (18) (e.g., truck, trailer, etc.) at the dock. In some examples, an air chamber (72) within the blister (14) is open at one or both ends. This prevents otherwise trapped pressurized air from adversely affecting the blister's compliance or its ability to sealingly conform to irregular surfaces of the vehicle. In some examples, as the vehicle (18) backs into and deflects the face panel (12), the blister (14) distorts and wraps itself around the vehicle's surface irregularities, such as door hardware and protruding lights. In some examples, the face panel's tip seal (58) includes an overlapping seal flap, wherein a series of slits in the tip seal allow the seal to fit over the vehicle's various surface irregularities.
Example flexible wall panels (e.g., demising walls) comprising a flexible, thermally insulated multilayer panel with a flammable core has a surprisingly low flame-spread index and smoke-developed index due to the flammable core being sandwiched between two fire resistant pads. The flammable core's high thermal resistance (high R-value) provides most of the panel's thermal insulation while a peripheral compressed region and the fire resistant pads help keep the flammable core from burning. In some examples, the materials and thicknesses of the panel's core, fire resistant pads and surrounding outer skin are such that the panel is of sufficient flexibility to be folded onto itself without experiencing appreciable permanent damage.
Powered safety curtains are disclosed herein. An example safety barrier assembly to control access to equipment includes a track and a barrier including a receptacle. The barrier is to be moveable within the track between an open position and a closed position. The open position is to enable access to the equipment, the closed position to substantially prevent access to the equipment. The example safety barrier assembly also includes a sensor to identify when the safety barrier is in the closed position and a securing device comprising a portion to be received by the receptacle when the barrier is identified as being in the closed position. An interaction between the portion and the receptacle is to prevent the barrier from moving out of the closed position.
E06B 9/86 - Mesures de sécurité contre le déroulement intempestif ou l'ouverture sans autorisation; Dispositifs de freinage ou d'immobilisation; Dispositifs pour limiter le déroulement automatiques contre l'ouverture sans autorisation
80.
PLIABLE -WALL AIR DUCT WITH SUSPENDED INNER FRAME AND METHOD OF INSTALLING PLIABLE -WALL AIR DUCT
Pliable-wall air ducts with suspended frames are disclosed herein. An example air duct system includes an air duct having a pliable sidewall. The pliable sidewall has a total weight. The example air duct system includes a framework to be disposed within the air duct. The framework includes a shaft to extend in the longitudinal direction, a rib to engage an inner surface of the air duct and a plurality of spokes to connect the rib to the shaft. The example air duct system a plurality of hangers. Each hanger comprises an elongate member having an upper section and a lower section. The lower section is to be coupled to the framework via access through a corresponding opening defined by the pliable sidewall. Most of the total weight of the pliable sidewall is to be carried by the framework.
Powered safety curtains are disclosed herein. An example barrier for an opening includes a motorized drive unit and a curtain to be suspended from the motorized drive unit. The curtain includes a leading edge and a lateral edge. The leading edge of the curtain is to be selectively moveable to a closed position where the curtain obstructs the opening and to an open position where the curtain uncovers the opening. The barrier also includes a track to be disposed along the lateral edge of the curtain, a guide plate to be carried by the curtain and extend into the track, and a nonferrous guide member to be attached to the guide plate. The example barrier also includes a first safety device comprising a first wireless portion and a first electrical portion. The first wireless portion is to be attached to the nonferrous guide member. The first electrical portion is to be mounted relative to the track. The first electrical portion is to have a first activated state and a first deactivated state. The first electrical portion is to be in the first activated state when the first wireless portion is in proximity with the first electrical portion as a result of the leading edge of the curtain being at the closed position. The first wireless portion is to be in the first deactivated state when the first wireless portion is remote relative to the first electrical portion as a result of the leading edge of the curtain not being in the closed position.
E06B 9/86 - Mesures de sécurité contre le déroulement intempestif ou l'ouverture sans autorisation; Dispositifs de freinage ou d'immobilisation; Dispositifs pour limiter le déroulement automatiques contre l'ouverture sans autorisation
Example insulated dividers, such as curtain-doors and temporary walls for dividing areas of a building, include features that make the dividers particularly suited for food and drug related environments that demand cleanliness and require dividers to be periodically washed down to remove microorganisms and other contaminants. Some example dividers include a touch-and-hold fastener to hold a flexible insulated pad within an internal space of a pliable hollow panel. In some examples, the insulated pad is made of polyester batting with loops of fiber to which the hook portion of the touch-and-hold fastener can engage. In some examples, both the insulated pad and the touch-and-hold fastener are completely contained within the hollow panel so that neither the pad nor the fastener provides an exposed external surface for harboring microorganisms. In some examples, the pliable panel's outer peripheral edge is hermetically sealed by thermal bonding, heat sealing, welding and/or ultrasonic joining.
Example dock levelers installed at a vehicle loading dock include pivotal or otherwise vertically adjustable deck plates with special coatings on the deck's upper surface. In some examples, the coating improves traction and addresses various thermal issues, such as condensation and thermal strain between a polymeric coating and a steel deck plate. In some examples, when indoor and outdoor air create a temperature differential across opposite faces of the deck, the coating is designed such that a median temperature of the temperature differential occurs near an interface where the coating bonds to the steel plate's upper surface. In some examples, the coating includes particles of different sizes and colors embedded within and covered by a polymeric base material. As traffic abrades the coating, the different colored particles become exposed at different levels of wear, thereby providing a visual signal indicating when the coating needs to be touched up or replaced.
B05D 1/02 - Procédés pour appliquer des liquides ou d'autres matériaux fluides aux surfaces réalisés par pulvérisation
B65G 69/28 - Rampes de chargement; Quais de chargement
B05D 5/02 - Procédés pour appliquer des liquides ou d'autres matériaux fluides aux surfaces pour obtenir des effets, finis ou des structures de surface particuliers pour obtenir une surface mate ou rugueuse
B05D 5/06 - Procédés pour appliquer des liquides ou d'autres matériaux fluides aux surfaces pour obtenir des effets, finis ou des structures de surface particuliers pour obtenir des effets multicolores ou d'autres effets optiques
Some examples of vehicle restraints (10) that include a movable barrier (18) for selectively blocking a vehicle's RIG (Rear Impact Guard) (20) near the dock face (14) of a loading dock (16) also include a spring loaded brace (26) that helps hold the barrier in its blocking position, even when the RIG separates from the barrier. To hold the brace in its activated position where it supports the barrier, some examples of the brace include a tooth (32) that engages a detent (82) in a catch (28). The catch, in some examples, includes a tooth-engaging surface (74) that protrudes into a circular path (76) along which the tooth (32) can travel relative to the barrier (18).
Pliable-wall air ducts with internal expanding structures are disclosed. An example air duct system includes a shaft to be disposed within an air duct, to extend in a longitudinal direction, and to be in longitudinal compression. The air duct system also includes a plurality of ribs to be coupled to the shaft and to engage an inner surface of the air duct and a spring to be disposed within the air duct, the spring to be coupled to the shaft. The spring under stress being a contributing factor in both the shaft being in longitudinal compression and the air duct being in longitudinal tension. A method of retrofitting an existing air duct system with internal expanding structure is also disclosed.
Conveyor system (10) including a main conveyor (12) with a frame supporting two conveyor extensions (16). The conveyor extensions (16) are adjustable in height and can rotate around a vertical axis (54, 56). The aim of this conveyor system (10) is to load and unload the trailer of a truck.
B65G 47/71 - Dispositifs pour transférer objets ou matériaux entre transporteurs, p.ex. pour décharger ou alimenter adaptés pour recevoir les objets arrivant d'un transporteur en une couche et pour les transférer en couches individuelles à plus d'un transporteur, ou vice versa, p.ex. en combinant l'écoulement des objets transportés par plus d'un transporteur les objets étant déchargés sur plusieurs transporteurs
B65G 67/08 - Chargement des véhicules terrestres utilisant des transporteurs sans fin
B65G 41/00 - Châssis ou bases de support pour transporteurs dans leur ensemble, p.ex. châssis transportables
Example air duct systems for supplying conditioned air to comfort zones include various example inflatable tubes with various example dampers. The dampers move noticeably slowly and/or its opening is delayed to reduce the rate at which the tube is inflated by a supply air blower. Depending on the particular example, the damper can be either at the inlet end of the tube or at the tube's opposite end. In some examples, the damper is controlled by an actuator that is powered by air or driven by an electric motor.
Systems and methods to detect and warn proximate entities of interest are described herein. An example signal generation system for a vehicle capable of different modes of movement includes a detector to determine at least one property of vehicle movement and an output representative of that at least one property and a selectively variable signal generator includes an input to receive the at least one output representative of the at least one property of vehicle movement and, responsively, generates a selected signal based on the received output. In some examples, a detector on a pedestrian detects the selected signal from the signal generator and, responsively, provides an output indicative of a vehicle in proximity to the pedestrian. In some examples, a trajectory vector is generated for at least two entities of interest based on at least one characteristic of movement of each entity. Each entity's trajectory vector is expanded and each entity's expanded trajectory vector is analyzed for overlap with the other entity's expanded trajectory vector to assess the possibility of a collision between them.
B60Q 1/52 - Agencement des dispositifs de signalisation optique ou d'éclairage, leur montage, leur support ou les circuits à cet effet les dispositifs ayant principalement pour objet d'indiquer le contour du véhicule ou de certaines de ses parties, ou pour engendrer des signaux au bénéfice d'autres véhicules pour indiquer d'autres intentions ou conditions, p.ex. demandes d'attente ou de dépassement pour indiquer des situations critiques
An example of a vertically operating door includes a flexible panel comprising two pliable sheets of material with a plurality of pads or mats of thermal insulation between the two sheets. In some examples, a plurality of horizontally elongate baffles made of pliable strips of material are installed between the two sheets. The baffles effectively divide one large interior volume between the sheets into more manageable smaller volumes or chambers. The baffles restrict the air between the sheets from being forced to the bottom of the panel as the panel ascends and bends across an overhead roller. Without the baffles and smaller chambers, the panel sheets in the area near the bottom of the panel would tend to bulge outward as the door opens.
A flame resitant room divider (10, 44) comprising two curtains (12,46), said curtains (12,46) having a central layer (20,48) between two other layers (22, 50).
In some example pliable air duct systems, inflatable ducts of various diameters and lengths are created by selectively assembling pre-existing stock pieces in different combinations. In some examples, the stock pieces include disconnectable longitudinal joints and disconnectable circumferential joints, wherein the longitudinal joints enable interconnecting multiple stock pieces to achieve a desired tube diameter, and the circumferential joints allow connecting multiple tube segments end-to-end to produce an air duct assembly of a desired length. To control the volume and/or the direction of air discharged from the duct, the duct assembly, in some examples, includes an adjustable register comprising a movable pliable sheet that overlies a discharge opening in a pliable sidewall of the duct. In some examples, the inflatable duct includes one or more cutout patterns on the duct's sidewall to provide guidance in creating a sidewall discharge opening of a proper size and location.
Example methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture to determine pliable air duct configurations are disclosed. A disclosed example method involves determining a first quantity of adjustable air outlet duct sections to configure an air delivery duct system when an operating mode identifier is received. The operating mode identifier is associated with an amount of air delivered by the air delivery duct system into targeted areas. The first quantity of adjustable air outlet duct sections is based on an airflow rate value and the operating mode identifier. The airflow rate value is indicative of airflow through an air delivery duct system. Each adjustable air outlet duct section includes at least one adjustable air outlet having at least one size- adjustable orifice.
Head curtains for dock shelters or dock seals are disclosed. An example head curtain assembly for a vehicle loading dock includes a retractable curtain (22) stiffened by a resiliently compressible foam panel (34) that is more flexible about a horizontal axis than about a vertical axis. The difference in directional flexibility can be created by sewing the foam panel (34) to a pliable cover (38) using a series of parallel horizontal thread lines. The thread lines create in the foam a series of compressed indentations (36) that run horizontally across the curtain (22) so that the curtain tends to bend more easily along those lines. The relative stiffness in the horizontal direction enables the curtain to exert an appreciable sealing force against two lateral dock seal members (26), and the vertical flexibility makes the curtain easy to retract to accommodate vehicles (12) of various heights. Touch-and-hold fasteners make many of the individual components of the head curtain readily replaceable.
In some example pliable air duct systems, inflatable ducts of various diameters and lengths are created by selectively assembling pre-existing stock pieces in different combinations. In some examples, the stock pieces include disconnectable longitudinal joints and disconnectable circumferential joints, wherein the longitudinal joints enable interconnecting multiple stock pieces to achieve a desired tube diameter, and the circumferential joints allow connecting multiple tube segments end-to-end to produce an air duct assembly of a desired length. To control the volume and/or the direction of air discharged from the duct, the duct assembly, in some examples, includes an adjustable register comprising a movable pliable sheet that overlies a discharge opening in a pliable sidewall of the duct. In some examples, the inflatable duct includes one or more cutout patterns on the duct's sidewall to provide guidance in creating a sidewall discharge opening of a proper size and location.
F24F 13/068 - Bouches pour diriger ou distribuer l'air dans des pièces ou enceintes, p.ex. diffuseur d'air de plafond formées de parois, plafonds ou planchers perforés
F24F 13/075 - Bouches pour diriger ou distribuer l'air dans des pièces ou enceintes, p.ex. diffuseur d'air de plafond ayant des tiges ou des lamelles parallèles orientant l'écoulement, p.ex. ayant des tiges ou des lamelles réglables individuellement
F24F 13/10 - Organes de réglage de l'écoulement d'air, p.ex. persiennes, grilles, volets ou plaques directrices mobiles, p.ex. registres
Example vehicle restraints engage various features of a vehicle (12) to restrain the vehicle (12) at a loading dock (16). Some example restraints reach over and around a vehicle's rear impact guard. Some example restraints engage a hole (92) or opening in a vehicle bed. Some example restraints are a combination bumper (76) and blocking member (86). Some example restraints are a combination blocking member (108) and a dock leveler lip (112).
Example wheel restraint systems (10) include example wheel chocks (20a) for blocking a wheel (12) of a vehicle at a loading dock. In some examples, the wheel chock (20a) is movable between a stored position and a wheel -blocking position. In the wheel -blocking position, the chock latches onto a track (22) that is mounted to a driveway of the loading dock. In the stored position, the chock (20a) is spaced apart from the track (22). In some examples, a lifting mechanism (30), such as a hoist (30a) or a spring - loaded articulated arm (30b) helps carry at least some of the chock's (20a) weight as the chock (20a) is manually moved between its stored and wheel -blocking positions. In some examples, the chock (20a) includes a rotatable lever (44) for selectively latching and unlatching the chock (20a) to the track (22).
An example of a vertically operating door includes a flexible panel (12) comprising two pliable sheets ((28), (30)) of material with a plurality of pads or mats of thermal insulation between the two sheets. In some examples, a plurality of horizontally elongate baffles (26) made of pliable strips of material are installed between the two sheets. The baffles effectively divide one large interior volume between the sheets into more manageable smaller volumes or chambers (34). The baffles restrict the air between the sheets from being forced to the bottom of the panel as the panel ascends and bends across an overhead roller. Without the baffles and smaller chambers, the panel sheets in the area near the bottom of the panel would tend to bulge outward as the door opens.
Example light fixtures include one or more light transmitting illuminated rods that emit a series or array of discrete spots of light. Some example light fixtures disclosed herein include optical features that provide an intriguing, attention-getting affect that can be useful particularly in alerting personnel of certain conditions at a doorway of a truck loading dock. In some examples, the light transmitting rods are mechanically coupled to a housing that contains an LED light source. The mechanical coupling allows the illuminated rods to be readily replaced without disrupting with the operation or wiring of the light source. Some example light fixtures illuminate the cargo bay of a vehicle at the loading dock.
B60Q 3/00 - Agencement des dispositifs d’éclairage pour l’intérieur des véhicules; Dispositifs d’éclairage spécialement adaptés à l’intérieur des véhicules
B60Q 3/06 - Agencement des dispositifs d'éclairage pour l'intérieur des véhicules, leur montage, leur support ou les circuits à cet effet pour éclairage des compartiments autres que ceux des passagers ou du conducteur, p.ex. compartiment à bagages ou du moteur
Door elements having FinRay structures are described herein. An example door element described herein is movable between a closed position in which the element extends across a doorway to at least partially block the doorway, and an open position where at least a portion of the element moves to a non-blocking position relative to the doorway. The door element includes a first flexible side element to transmit tensile forces and has a proximal end and a distal end. The door element includes a second flexible side element to resist compressive forces and has a proximal end and a distal end. The first and second side elements are coupled to each other at their distal ends. The element includes a plurality of connecting ribs flexibly coupled to the first and second side elements to transmit tensile forces between the first and second side elements. An actuator applies a longitudinal tensile force to the proximal end of the first side element, where the resulting deformation of the second side element is transmitted to the first side element by the connecting ribs in movement of the door element to the open position.
A wheel restraint (10) for restraining a vehicle (14) at a loading dock (16) includes a wheel chock (20) suspended from a tether (32). The tether hangs from an overhead beam (34) such that the wheel chock can be swung down and underneath the vehicle (14) and placed directly in front of a wheel (12) of the vehicle. A pin (24) can be used to help hold the chock (20) to an anchor (26) that is fastened to a driveway of the loading dock (16). The orientation of the pin (24) and the anchor holes (28) in which the pin can be selectively inserted prevents the chock from tipping back and makes the restraint (10) more tolerant of dirt, ice and other contaminants. In some examples, an offset between the beam (34) and the wheel (12) results in the tether (32) urging the chock toward the anchor.
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