Material or article handling – Process – Of loading or unloading load-transporting type vehicle and...
Reexamination Certificate
2000-04-06
2001-11-06
Bratlie, Steven A. (Department: 3652)
Material or article handling
Process
Of loading or unloading load-transporting type vehicle and...
C049S049000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06312214
ABSTRACT:
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates generally to automotive assembly methods and, more particularly, to a method for improving loading dock safety.
BACKGROUND ART
In order to remain successful, any industry that produces consumer goods must constantly monitor safety. If the actual or perceived safety of an assembly plant is lower than worker expectations, then workers will find alternative, safer industries to work in. Therefore, it is in the best interest of producers of consumer goods to constantly strive to improve the safety of their assembly plants.
In order to keep an assembly plant functioning, large amounts of various parts must be delivered on a frequent basis. The method of choice for delivery of these various parts is by semi-truck. When the semi-truck arrives with these parts it backs up to a loading dock to allow a forklift to unload its cargo. Unfortunately, if the truck pulls away from the dock before the unloading process is complete, then the forklift may fall on the ground.
In the past, a light was provided to notify the semi-truck driver of the status of his load. When the light is red, the unloading process is occurring, and the driver should not pull away. When the light is green, the unloading process is complete, and it is safe for the driver to pull forward. Unfortunately, the light is not always easy to see from the cab of the semi-truck. This results in the driver occasionally pulling away before the unloading process is complete.
The disadvantages associated with conventional loading dock techniques have made it apparent that a new technique for improving loading dock safety is needed. The new technique should prevent semi-drivers from pulling away from the loading dock before the unloading process is complete.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide an improved and reliable means for improving loading dock safety. Another object of the invention is to prevent semi-drivers from pulling away from the loading dock before the unloading process is complete.
In accordance with the objects of this invention, a method for improving loading dock safety is provided. In one aspect of the invention, an apparatus for improving loading dock safety includes an actuator coupled to a stop/go light. Actuator controls the position of a visible barrier, or flag. When the semi-truck is being unloaded, it is unsafe to move the semi-truck ahead, therefore, a red light is activated and the actuator lowers the barrier in front of the truck where the driver can see it. When the unloading process is complete, it is safe to move the semi-truck ahead, therefore, a green light is activated and the actuator raises the barrier to signal the driver that the semi-truck may be safely moved ahead.
The present invention achieves an improved and reliable means for improving loading dock safety. Also, the present invention is advantageous in that it reduces damage caused by semi-truck drivers pulling away from the loading dock before the unloading process is complete.
Additional advantages and features of the present invention will become apparent from the description that follows, and may be realized by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
REFERENCES:
patent: 4122629 (1978-10-01), Rennick
patent: 4127856 (1978-11-01), Bickel
patent: 4630989 (1986-12-01), Davey
patent: 4818170 (1989-04-01), Fisher et al.
patent: 5927928 (1999-07-01), Hageman et al.
patent: 5964059 (1999-10-01), Metz
Gentry Scott
Nowak John A.
Primeau Daniel R.
Bratlie Steven A.
Drouillard Jerome
Ford Global Technologies Inc.
LandOfFree
Method for improving safety does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.
If you have personal experience with Method for improving safety, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Method for improving safety will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-2618005