WO2017108201A1 - Communication system between a loading/unloading dock control centre and a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Communication system between a loading/unloading dock control centre and a motor vehicle Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2017108201A1
WO2017108201A1 PCT/EP2016/025183 EP2016025183W WO2017108201A1 WO 2017108201 A1 WO2017108201 A1 WO 2017108201A1 EP 2016025183 W EP2016025183 W EP 2016025183W WO 2017108201 A1 WO2017108201 A1 WO 2017108201A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
loading
motor vehicle
dock
unloading
control centre
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2016/025183
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Andrea TROBBIANI
Giorgio TROBBIANI
Joaquim DA CUNHA
Original Assignee
Tm Group S.R.L.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Tm Group S.R.L. filed Critical Tm Group S.R.L.
Priority to EP16823160.3A priority Critical patent/EP3394688A1/en
Publication of WO2017108201A1 publication Critical patent/WO2017108201A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G05—CONTROLLING; REGULATING
    • G05B—CONTROL OR REGULATING SYSTEMS IN GENERAL; FUNCTIONAL ELEMENTS OF SUCH SYSTEMS; MONITORING OR TESTING ARRANGEMENTS FOR SUCH SYSTEMS OR ELEMENTS
    • G05B19/00—Programme-control systems
    • G05B19/02—Programme-control systems electric
    • G05B19/04—Programme control other than numerical control, i.e. in sequence controllers or logic controllers
    • G05B19/048—Monitoring; Safety
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R25/00—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles
    • B60R25/01—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles operating on vehicle systems or fittings, e.g. on doors, seats or windscreens
    • B60R25/08—Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles operating on vehicle systems or fittings, e.g. on doors, seats or windscreens operating on brakes or brake systems
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G69/00—Auxiliary measures taken, or devices used, in connection with loading or unloading
    • B65G69/003—Restraining movement of a vehicle at a loading station using means not being part of the vehicle

Definitions

  • This invention relates to the trucking industry and more specifically to the approach manoeuvres of a motor vehicle to a dock and the operations of loading and unloading goods, and regards a communication system between a control centre of a loading/unloading dock for a motor vehicle that eliminates ground control personnel, avoiding potential accidents and allowing a reduction of personnel in such operations.
  • a driver arriving at a warehouse to load and unload must be informed about the rules and possible risks in the work area; he must also be informed of coordination measures useful to avoid the risk of accidents. Normally, the driver must contact the goods reception area of the warehouse to deliver/pick up transport documents and receive instructions regarding his work of loading/unloading; after which the driver must sign a document stating that he has read and understood the loading/unloading rules and regulations in force in that warehouse.
  • the vehicle when docking is completed, the vehicle must be blocked. After positioning the truck at a minimum distance, according to the safety rules of the dock, the backing up manoeuvre must be completed by engaging the parking brake. The vehicle must be parked at right angles to the loading zone and inside the guide strips on the pavement.
  • the person who inserts the chock can be crushed by the vehicle or other vehicles passing nearby;
  • the space between one vehicle and the next is so small that there is not sufficient space for the person who must insert the chock to pass;
  • the chock remains a moveable device that can be removed by an unauthorised person
  • the person may place the chock incorrectly and ineffectively; - the chock acts as an obstacle, but it can be overridden by the wheel in case of a forced restart of the vehicle;
  • the person who actuates the system can be crushed by the vehicle or other vehicles passing nearby;
  • the vehicle may be damaged because the insertion of the pipe can break the splash guard of the truck;
  • the system is actuated by a person who may erroneously remove it before the end of loading/unloading operations.
  • the system requires major masonry works to position it on the pavement, with high costs and long installation times. It consists of two transverse steel pipes that block the wheel in front and behind. These pipes are connected to a hydraulic movement guide and accompany the vehicle to the predetermined distance from the dock, using radar to ensure that there are no people or objects behind the vehicle. At the end of loading/unloading operations, the operator on the dock presses a command that allows the Arrimatic to release the wheels of the vehicle and allow it to restart.
  • the vehicle may be damaged because the insertion of the pipe can break the splash guard of the truck;
  • the CALEMATIC disclosed in patent application FR2841546 Al is a system composed of a series of progressive chocks recessed in the floor.
  • the system requires major masonry works to position it on the pavement, with high costs and long installation times. It is activated by an operator who makes sure that the vehicle is positioned correctly at wedges. At this point all the chocks, except those under the wheels, are raised, blocking the truck.
  • the known on- vehicle braking devices such as: BPW, Wabco and Handex, are activated when backing up; radar detects the minimum distance from the dock and applies the brake of the vehicle.
  • the drawback of the use of this device is due to the fact that it only works when backing up; this means that the driver may engage the first gear and drive away at any time.
  • the parking manager on the ground has to make sure that all the criteria dictated by the safety rules are met before giving the start signal for loading/unloading. At this point, the signal having been given, the warehouse manager gives the go-up for loading/unloading operations.
  • the driver must wait for loading/unloading to be completed: during this period of time, he must remain in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle in an assigned safe place; if he needs to use the bathroom, he must use pedestrian routes, taking the utmost care.
  • the operator assigned to loading/unloading must open the door and place the ramp on the body of the truck. Depending on the type of ramp, the operation can be done manually or hydraulically.
  • the assigned person must make sure that the ramp is not being used beyond the allowed inclination (12.5% for forklift trucks).
  • the purpose of this invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the devices used to ensure the blocking of the truck at the dock described above, by providing a communication system between a control centre of a loading/unloading dock and a motor vehicle.
  • Another purpose of this invention is to provide a communication system able to communicate with the loading/unloading dock and with the controller of the brakes and suspension.
  • Another purpose of this invention is to provide a communication system that avoids the presence of people on the ground to monitor the manoeuvring of the vehicle.
  • - Fig. 1 depicts is a view from above the beginning stage of the backing up manoeuvre of a vehicle (1) towards the dock (3) of a warehouse (2).
  • - Fig. 2 depicts is a view from above of the backing up manoeuvre of a vehicle (1) towards the dock (3) of a warehouse (2).
  • FIG. 3 is a side view of a motor vehicle (1) approaching a loading/unloading dock (3) and a communication system (S) composed of:
  • - Fig. 4 is a side view of a motor vehicle (1) in which the radar (8) detects the presence of the motor vehicle (1) and notifies the control centre (10) and simultaneously the backup sensor (6) detects the distance from the dock (3) and checks that there are no obstacles.
  • FIG. 5 is a side view of a motor vehicle (1) in which the backup sensor (6) notifies the control centre (10) that the motor vehicle (1) is positioned at the minimum distance from the dock (3) in accordance with rule; said centre (10) takes control of the controller of the brakes and suspension (5) and sends a signal to the device the driver (4) and to the device of the warehouseman (7) that the operations of approaching the dock (3) have been completed successfully.
  • FIG. 6 depicts is a side view of a motor vehicle (1) in which the warehouseman, after having received the signal, can open the door (12) and position the ramp (9) on the body of the vehicle (1) since the control centre (10) has control of the motor vehicle (1) and prevents accidental restarting.
  • Fig. 7 is a side view of a motor vehicle (1), in which the control centre (10) detects that the door (12) and the ramp (9) are properly positioned and, once correct positioning is ascertained, changes the signal of the traffic lights (11) and sends a signal to the device of the warehouseman (7), who can start the operations of loading/unloading from the motor vehicle (1), while the radar (13) is activated and has the task of checking the speed the forklift during operations.
  • FIG. 8 is a side view of the operations of loading/unloading a motor vehicle (1) in which the warehouseman closes the door (12) and repositions the ramp (9) in a resting phase.
  • FIG. 9 is a side view of a motor vehicle (1) that, once the operations of loading/unloading are finished, can leave the dock (3) because the control centre (10), after detecting the closing of the door (12) and the lowering of the ramp (9), sends a signal to the device of the driver (4) that the operations of loading/unloading are finished, inverts the signal of the traffic lights (11) and disengages from the controller of the brakes and suspension (5) of the vehicle (1).
  • this invention relates to a communication system (S) between a control centre (10) of a loading/unloading dock (3) and a motor vehicle (1).
  • Said system (S) comprises:
  • control centre (10) representing the fulcrum of the system (S);
  • the motor vehicles (1) currently on the market are equipped with a controller of the brakes and suspension (5); if braking devices are installed without a controller, the motor vehicle (1) entering the pertinent area of the loading/unloading warehouse (2) is fitted with a steering wheel device (not shown) that takes control of the tubes of the controller of the brakes and suspension of the vehicle and that must be positioned preferably between the body and the cabin of the motor vehicle (1). Said device, once loading/unloading is finished, must be removed by authorised personnel prior to its exit from the pertinent area of the warehouse (2).
  • the driver of a motor vehicle (1) that arrives at the warehouse (2) to carry out the loading/unloading operations receives directly in the cabin, on paper or on a video device (4) by means of data transmission, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or through a smartphone application, information about the rules and possible risks in the work area and is also informed about the coordination measures useful to avoid risks of injury.
  • the driver no longer needs to go to the reception desk, but the loading documents are sent to the device (4) inside the cabin along with the number of the dock (3) at which to load, the waiting times and the type of goods to be loaded.
  • the driver After the assignment of the dock (3), the driver begins docking operations.
  • the device (4) in the cabin connects, via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and radar (ultrasonic or infra-red), a presence sensor or even a GPS device, to the signal of the dock (3) on its lane; in this case the device (4) comes into contact with the control centre (10) of the loading dock (3) and with the controller (5) of the brakes.
  • the vehicle (1) it is gradually braked to prevent the driver from approaching rapidly; a backup sensor (6) placed in the rear checks that there are no obstacles and detects the distance from the dock (3).
  • This system eliminates the presence of persons and obstacles on the ground to monitor the manoeuvre, thus avoiding possible crushing accidents, as well as allowing the reduction of personnel.
  • the motor vehicle (1) After reaching the dock (3), the minimum distance complies with the rule, the motor vehicle (1) is automatically stopped and the brake is controlled by the control centre (10) on the loading dock (3) inside the warehouse (2).
  • the sensor (6) can also detect the distance the left and right sides, deciding whether to brake the left or right part so as to perfectly align the motor vehicle (1) to the loading dock (3).
  • the motor vehicle (1) when parked, is blocked due to the fact that the control centre (10) takes control of the controller of the brakes and suspension (5) and sends a signal to the device of the driver (4) and to the device of the warehouseman (7) that the approach to the dock (3) has been completed successfully.
  • the system (S) receives the information that the motor vehicle (1) is in the correct position and gives the go-ahead for loading.
  • the control centre (10) changes the signal of the traffic lights (1 1) and sends a signal to the device of the warehouseman (7), who can begin operations of loading/unloading from the motor vehicle (1).
  • the operator in charge of loading can proceed to opening the door (12) and resting the ramp (9) on the body of the motor vehicle (1).
  • the ramp (9) resting on the body communicates, via cable, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or data transmission, the degree of inclination of the surface on which it rests to the system (S); in turn, the system (S) communicates with the controller of the suspension (5) acting on the pneumatic suspension, which will be adjusted in height to ensure that the passage of the forklift is not inclined more than allowed.
  • the radar (13) is activated and has the task of checking the speed of the forklift truck during operations.
  • This process is monitored throughout loading so as to act on the suspension based on the changes of the motor vehicle during loading/unloading.
  • the system (S) signals an anomaly by means of acoustic and visual systems such as, for example, the traffic lights (11) and consequently the control centre (10) detects the anomaly and communicates with the controller of the suspension (5) of the motor vehicle (1) that adjusts the ramp (9) so that it is positioned correctly.
  • acoustic and visual systems such as, for example, the traffic lights (11) and consequently the control centre (10) detects the anomaly and communicates with the controller of the suspension (5) of the motor vehicle (1) that adjusts the ramp (9) so that it is positioned correctly.
  • the operator closes the ramp (9) and secures the dock (3), closing the door (12).
  • the motor vehicle (1) can leave the dock (3) because the control centre (10), after detecting the closing of the door (12) and the lowering of the ramp (9), sends a signal to the device of the driver (4) that the operations of loading/unloading are finished, inverts the signal of the traffic lights (1 1) and disengages from the controller of the brakes and suspension (5) of the vehicle (1).

Abstract

This invention relates to the trucking industry and more specifically to the approach manoeuvres of a motor vehicle to a dock and the operations of loading and unloading goods, and regards a communication system between a control centre of a loading/unloading dock for a motor vehicle that eliminates ground control personnel, avoiding potential accidents and allowing a reduction of personnel in such operations.

Description

Communication system between a loading/unloading dock control centre and a motor vehicle.
Description
Field of the invention
This invention relates to the trucking industry and more specifically to the approach manoeuvres of a motor vehicle to a dock and the operations of loading and unloading goods, and regards a communication system between a control centre of a loading/unloading dock for a motor vehicle that eliminates ground control personnel, avoiding potential accidents and allowing a reduction of personnel in such operations. Background of the invention
Pn the field of the approach manoeuvres of a vehicle to a dock to load and unload goods, it is known that many accidents occur due to incorrect manoeuvres, especially in situations of loading and unloading, hi addition to accidents related to trucks backing up, there is often a failure to use the parking brake or otherwise block the wheels.
A driver arriving at a warehouse to load and unload must be informed about the rules and possible risks in the work area; he must also be informed of coordination measures useful to avoid the risk of accidents. Normally, the driver must contact the goods reception area of the warehouse to deliver/pick up transport documents and receive instructions regarding his work of loading/unloading; after which the driver must sign a document stating that he has read and understood the loading/unloading rules and regulations in force in that warehouse. Once assigned a loading dock, it is known that the manoeuvres of the trucks, especially when approaching the loading docks, must be performed at very low speed, after confirming that there are no obstructions, hi addition, persons must not pass through the area in which the manoeuvre is performed and, if some danger is anticipated, a person must be provided on the ground who is in visual contact with the driver. This person on the ground must always ensure visual and verbal contact with the driver since he is, himself, in danger of being crushed by the truck or involved in an accident with another adjacent vehicle. One must also avoid crushing people that accidentally fall off the loading dock while the vehicle is approaching.
Finally, when docking is completed, the vehicle must be blocked. After positioning the truck at a minimum distance, according to the safety rules of the dock, the backing up manoeuvre must be completed by engaging the parking brake. The vehicle must be parked at right angles to the loading zone and inside the guide strips on the pavement.
hi the state of the art, various devices are known for blocking the truck at the dock, such as:
- the CHOCK disclosed in patent application EP2089302 A2: the person assigned to monitor the manoeuvres of the vehicle must take the wheel chock and place it in front of one of them; this serves to keep the vehicle from moving before loading/unloading is completed.
The drawbacks of using this device are due to the fact that:
- the person who inserts the chock can be crushed by the vehicle or other vehicles passing nearby;
- in some warehouses, the space between one vehicle and the next is so small that there is not sufficient space for the person who must insert the chock to pass;
- in any case, the chock remains a moveable device that can be removed by an unauthorised person;
- the person may place the chock incorrectly and ineffectively; - the chock acts as an obstacle, but it can be overridden by the wheel in case of a forced restart of the vehicle;
- since the truck tends to move forwards during loading and unloading, thus moving away from the dock (due to the oblique positioning of the suspension) and since the chock is not secured to the pavement, the gradual forward movement of the wedge moves it away from the wheel, or the wheel rolls on top of the chock during these movements, preventing the subsequent removal of the chock itself.
- The RITE-HITE disclosed in patent application EP0905066 A2: the person assigned to monitor the vehicle must manually or hydraulically operate the Rite-Hite, or similar, system. Said system requires major masonry works to position it on the pavement, with high costs and long installation times. It consists of a sliding steel pipe fixed on a guide on the ground that, once actuated, inserts itself perpendicularly to the vehicle in front of the wheel of the truck, blocking it. This serves to keep the vehicle from moving before loading/unloading is completed.
The drawbacks of using this device are due to the fact that:
- the person who actuates the system can be crushed by the vehicle or other vehicles passing nearby;
- the vehicle may be damaged because the insertion of the pipe can break the splash guard of the truck;
- the system is actuated by a person who may erroneously remove it before the end of loading/unloading operations.
- The ARRIMATIC disclosed in patent application FR2957069 Al : it is a system that:
- detects the arrival of the truck backing up;
- blocks the truck at a given distance;
- finishes the operations of the vehicle's approach to the dock.
The system requires major masonry works to position it on the pavement, with high costs and long installation times. It consists of two transverse steel pipes that block the wheel in front and behind. These pipes are connected to a hydraulic movement guide and accompany the vehicle to the predetermined distance from the dock, using radar to ensure that there are no people or objects behind the vehicle. At the end of loading/unloading operations, the operator on the dock presses a command that allows the Arrimatic to release the wheels of the vehicle and allow it to restart.
The drawbacks of using this device are due to the fact that:
- the vehicle may be damaged because the insertion of the pipe can break the splash guard of the truck;
- since the truck must be left with the parking brake disengaged, if the hydraulic system fails, the pipes could release the wheel and the truck could moving uncontrollably while loading/unloading operations are not yet finished.
- The CALEMATIC disclosed in patent application FR2841546 Al : it is a system composed of a series of progressive chocks recessed in the floor. The system requires major masonry works to position it on the pavement, with high costs and long installation times. It is activated by an operator who makes sure that the vehicle is positioned correctly at wedges. At this point all the chocks, except those under the wheels, are raised, blocking the truck.
The drawback of the use of this device is due to the fact that the chock may not be close to the wheel and the truck could move forwards, accidentally moving away from the ramp.
- The ON-VEHICLE BRAKING DEVICES disclosed in patent EP2489531 B l .
The known on- vehicle braking devices, such as: BPW, Wabco and Handex, are activated when backing up; radar detects the minimum distance from the dock and applies the brake of the vehicle. The drawback of the use of this device is due to the fact that it only works when backing up; this means that the driver may engage the first gear and drive away at any time.
Pn the state of the art are also known the following documents:
- US 2008/042865 Al that discloses a dock monitoring device that provides a warning to dock workers and a lift truck operator that a hazardous condition exists if the distance from a parked load transport vehicle to the rear of a loading dock increases outside a preset "safe zone" distance.
- US 6450587 Bl that discloses a safety-enhancing automatic brake control system automatically applies and maintains the brakes in the applied state, when one or more conditions exist at various stations around/in the vehicle or equipment that make vehicle movement dangerous.
- US 2005/102042 Al that discloses a control panel for loading dock and in particular it relates to a control panel able to monitor the equipment of a loading dock.
What is disclosed in US 2008/042865 Al, US 6450587 Bl and US 2005/102042 Al presents the disadvantage that, in the event of dangerous situations, the described devices do nothing but send a visual/audible signal, but always involve the operation of a forklift driver, a driver or an operator of the loading dock who may always incur human error.
The parking manager on the ground has to make sure that all the criteria dictated by the safety rules are met before giving the start signal for loading/unloading. At this point, the signal having been given, the warehouse manager gives the go-up for loading/unloading operations.
Meanwhile, the driver must wait for loading/unloading to be completed: during this period of time, he must remain in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle in an assigned safe place; if he needs to use the bathroom, he must use pedestrian routes, taking the utmost care. The operator assigned to loading/unloading must open the door and place the ramp on the body of the truck. Depending on the type of ramp, the operation can be done manually or hydraulically.
Once the ramp is positioned on the body, the assigned person must make sure that the ramp is not being used beyond the allowed inclination (12.5% for forklift trucks).
If this parameter is not respected, the assigned person must alert the driver and tell him to adjust the suspension to adapt the truck to the correct height. When loading/unloading is finished, the operator on the dock must close the ramp and the door; after this, he can alert the operator on the ground to remove the activated truck-blocking devices (chock or automatic system). This latter, in turn, can signal the driver to proceed with the closing of the tailgate of the vehicle and authorise its departure. Disclosure of the invention
The purpose of this invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the devices used to ensure the blocking of the truck at the dock described above, by providing a communication system between a control centre of a loading/unloading dock and a motor vehicle.
Another purpose of this invention is to provide a communication system able to communicate with the loading/unloading dock and with the controller of the brakes and suspension.
Another purpose of this invention is to provide a communication system that avoids the presence of people on the ground to monitor the manoeuvring of the vehicle.
Another purpose of this invention is to provide a communication system that avoids the accidental restart of the motor vehicle when loading/unloading operations are not finished. Another purpose of this invention is to provide a communication system that avoids the accidental falling of the operator on the dock assigned to loading/unloading operations due to the incorrect positioning of the ramp or the movement of the motor vehicle.
Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description of a preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment of a communication system between a control centre of a loading/unloading dock and a motor vehicle, illustrated by way of non-limiting indication in the accompanying drawings in which:
- Fig. 1 depicts is a view from above the beginning stage of the backing up manoeuvre of a vehicle (1) towards the dock (3) of a warehouse (2).
- Fig. 2 depicts is a view from above of the backing up manoeuvre of a vehicle (1) towards the dock (3) of a warehouse (2).
- Fig. 3 is a side view of a motor vehicle (1) approaching a loading/unloading dock (3) and a communication system (S) composed of:
- a device of the driver (4);
- a controller of the brakes and suspension (5);
- a backup sensor (6) of the motor vehicle (1);
- a device of the warehouseman (7);
- a radar (8) that detects the position of the motor vehicle (1);
- a loading/unloading ramp (9);
- a control centre (10);
- traffic lights (1 1);
- a door (12);
- a radar (13) that detects motion and therefore the speed of the forklift truck used for loading/unloading operations.
- Fig. 4 is a side view of a motor vehicle (1) in which the radar (8) detects the presence of the motor vehicle (1) and notifies the control centre (10) and simultaneously the backup sensor (6) detects the distance from the dock (3) and checks that there are no obstacles.
- Fig. 5 is a side view of a motor vehicle (1) in which the backup sensor (6) notifies the control centre (10) that the motor vehicle (1) is positioned at the minimum distance from the dock (3) in accordance with rule; said centre (10) takes control of the controller of the brakes and suspension (5) and sends a signal to the device the driver (4) and to the device of the warehouseman (7) that the operations of approaching the dock (3) have been completed successfully.
- Fig. 6 depicts is a side view of a motor vehicle (1) in which the warehouseman, after having received the signal, can open the door (12) and position the ramp (9) on the body of the vehicle (1) since the control centre (10) has control of the motor vehicle (1) and prevents accidental restarting.
- Fig. 7 is a side view of a motor vehicle (1), in which the control centre (10) detects that the door (12) and the ramp (9) are properly positioned and, once correct positioning is ascertained, changes the signal of the traffic lights (11) and sends a signal to the device of the warehouseman (7), who can start the operations of loading/unloading from the motor vehicle (1), while the radar (13) is activated and has the task of checking the speed the forklift during operations.
- Fig. 8 is a side view of the operations of loading/unloading a motor vehicle (1) in which the warehouseman closes the door (12) and repositions the ramp (9) in a resting phase.
- Fig. 9 is a side view of a motor vehicle (1) that, once the operations of loading/unloading are finished, can leave the dock (3) because the control centre (10), after detecting the closing of the door (12) and the lowering of the ramp (9), sends a signal to the device of the driver (4) that the operations of loading/unloading are finished, inverts the signal of the traffic lights (11) and disengages from the controller of the brakes and suspension (5) of the vehicle (1).
Detailed description of the invention
According to a preferred - but not limiting - embodiment, this invention relates to a communication system (S) between a control centre (10) of a loading/unloading dock (3) and a motor vehicle (1).
Said system (S) comprises:
- a device of the driver (4);
- a controller of the brakes and suspension (5);
- a backup sensor (6) of the motor vehicle (1);
- a device of the warehouseman (7);
- a radar (8) that detects the position of the motor vehicle (1);
- a loading/unloading ramp (9);
- a control centre (10) representing the fulcrum of the system (S);
- traffic lights (1 1);
- a door (12);
- a radar (13) that detects motion and therefore the speed of the forklift truck used for loading/unloading operations.
The motor vehicles (1) currently on the market are equipped with a controller of the brakes and suspension (5); if braking devices are installed without a controller, the motor vehicle (1) entering the pertinent area of the loading/unloading warehouse (2) is fitted with a steering wheel device (not shown) that takes control of the tubes of the controller of the brakes and suspension of the vehicle and that must be positioned preferably between the body and the cabin of the motor vehicle (1). Said device, once loading/unloading is finished, must be removed by authorised personnel prior to its exit from the pertinent area of the warehouse (2). The driver of a motor vehicle (1) that arrives at the warehouse (2) to carry out the loading/unloading operations receives directly in the cabin, on paper or on a video device (4) by means of data transmission, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or through a smartphone application, information about the rules and possible risks in the work area and is also informed about the coordination measures useful to avoid risks of injury. The driver no longer needs to go to the reception desk, but the loading documents are sent to the device (4) inside the cabin along with the number of the dock (3) at which to load, the waiting times and the type of goods to be loaded.
After the assignment of the dock (3), the driver begins docking operations. When backing up, the device (4) in the cabin connects, via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and radar (ultrasonic or infra-red), a presence sensor or even a GPS device, to the signal of the dock (3) on its lane; in this case the device (4) comes into contact with the control centre (10) of the loading dock (3) and with the controller (5) of the brakes.
During the backing-up approach, the vehicle (1) it is gradually braked to prevent the driver from approaching rapidly; a backup sensor (6) placed in the rear checks that there are no obstacles and detects the distance from the dock (3). This system eliminates the presence of persons and obstacles on the ground to monitor the manoeuvre, thus avoiding possible crushing accidents, as well as allowing the reduction of personnel.
After reaching the dock (3), the minimum distance complies with the rule, the motor vehicle (1) is automatically stopped and the brake is controlled by the control centre (10) on the loading dock (3) inside the warehouse (2).
During backing-up, the sensor (6) can also detect the distance the left and right sides, deciding whether to brake the left or right part so as to perfectly align the motor vehicle (1) to the loading dock (3).
By making use of the system (S) covered by this patent application, the motor vehicle (1), when parked, is blocked due to the fact that the control centre (10) takes control of the controller of the brakes and suspension (5) and sends a signal to the device of the driver (4) and to the device of the warehouseman (7) that the approach to the dock (3) has been completed successfully.
The system (S) receives the information that the motor vehicle (1) is in the correct position and gives the go-ahead for loading.
The control centre (10) changes the signal of the traffic lights (1 1) and sends a signal to the device of the warehouseman (7), who can begin operations of loading/unloading from the motor vehicle (1). The operator in charge of loading can proceed to opening the door (12) and resting the ramp (9) on the body of the motor vehicle (1). The ramp (9) resting on the body communicates, via cable, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or data transmission, the degree of inclination of the surface on which it rests to the system (S); in turn, the system (S) communicates with the controller of the suspension (5) acting on the pneumatic suspension, which will be adjusted in height to ensure that the passage of the forklift is not inclined more than allowed. The radar (13) is activated and has the task of checking the speed of the forklift truck during operations.
This process is monitored throughout loading so as to act on the suspension based on the changes of the motor vehicle during loading/unloading.
If the ramp (9) is not properly positioned on the body of the motor vehicle (1), the system (S) signals an anomaly by means of acoustic and visual systems such as, for example, the traffic lights (11) and consequently the control centre (10) detects the anomaly and communicates with the controller of the suspension (5) of the motor vehicle (1) that adjusts the ramp (9) so that it is positioned correctly.
After loading/unloading is finished, the operator closes the ramp (9) and secures the dock (3), closing the door (12). The motor vehicle (1) can leave the dock (3) because the control centre (10), after detecting the closing of the door (12) and the lowering of the ramp (9), sends a signal to the device of the driver (4) that the operations of loading/unloading are finished, inverts the signal of the traffic lights (1 1) and disengages from the controller of the brakes and suspension (5) of the vehicle (1).
The materials and dimensions of the invention as above described, illustrated in the accompanying drawings and claimed below, may be any depending on the need. Moreover all details are replaceable with other technically equivalent ones, without departing from the scope of this patent application.

Claims

Claims
1. Communication system (S) between a control centre (10) of a loading/unloading dock (3) and a motor vehicle (1) characterised in that said communication system (S) comprises:
- a driver device (4) on which information about the rules, the risks present in the work area, the loading documents, the number of the dock (3) on which to load, the waiting times and the type of goods to be loaded is received via data transmission, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or a smartphone application;
- a controller of the brakes and suspension (5) that blocks the motor vehicle (1) when the control centre (10) takes control of it;
- a backup sensor (6) of the motor vehicle (1) placed in the rear checks that there are no obstacles and detects the distance from the dock (3); - a device of the warehouseman (7), which receives the information that the operations of loading/unloading the motor vehicle (1) can begin or end;
- a radar (8) that detects the position of the motor vehicle (1) and communicates it to the control centre (10);
- a loading/unloading ramp (9) positioned/removed by the warehouseman on/from the body of the vehicle (1);
- the control centre (10);
- traffic lights (11);
- a door (12) that is opened/closed by the warehouseman after receiving a signal to start/end loading/unloading operations on the device (7);
- a radar (13) that detects motion and speed of the forklift truck used for loading/unloading operations.
2. Communication system (S) according to claim 1 characterised in that the device of the driver (4) connects, via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and an ultrasonic or infra-red radar or a presence sensor or a GPS device, to the signal of the dock (3) on its lane, entering into contact with the control centre (10) of the loading dock (3) and with the brake controller (5).
3. Communication system (S) according to claim 1 characterised in that the motor vehicle (1) is automatically stopped when reaching the minimum distance from the dock (3) since the control centre (10) takes control of the controller of the brakes and suspension (5) and sends a signal to the device of the driver (4) and to the device of the warehouseman (7) that the approach to the dock (3) has been completed successfully.
4. Communication system (S) according to claim 1 characterised in that the control centre (10), when the vehicle (1) is stopped, changes the signal of the traffic light (11) and sends a signal to the device of the warehouseman (7) that he can begin the operations of loading/unloading from the motor vehicle (1), by opening the door (12) and resting the ramp (9) on the body of the motor vehicle (1).
5. Communication system (S) according to claim 1 characterised in that the ramp (9) communicates, via cable, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or transmission data, the degree of inclination of the surface on which it rests, to the system (S) which, in turn, communicates with the controller of the suspension (5), acting on the pneumatic suspension whose height will be adjusted.
6. Communication system (S) according to claim 1 characterised in that the motor vehicle (1), after the closing of the door (12) and the lowering of the ramp (9) is detected, can leave the dock (3) because the control centre (10) sends a signal to the device of the driver (4) that the operations of loading/unloading are finished, inverts the signal of the traffic lights (11) and disengages from the controller of the brakes and suspension (5) of the vehicle (1).
PCT/EP2016/025183 2015-12-22 2016-12-21 Communication system between a loading/unloading dock control centre and a motor vehicle WO2017108201A1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP16823160.3A EP3394688A1 (en) 2015-12-22 2016-12-21 Communication system between a loading/unloading dock control centre and a motor vehicle

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
ITUB2015A009394A ITUB20159394A1 (en) 2015-12-22 2015-12-22 Communication system between a control panel of a loading / unloading dock and a vehicle.
IT102015000086353 2015-12-22

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US20200407174A1 (en) * 2019-06-28 2020-12-31 Hubei University Vehicle measurement system for automatic conveyor
FR3111340A1 (en) * 2020-06-15 2021-12-17 Jean Chereau Sas Device for immobilizing a road freight vehicle and associated method
FR3123639A1 (en) * 2021-06-04 2022-12-09 Esa Docking Security Method and system for managing the loading/unloading of a vehicle on a logistics platform.
EP4332033A1 (en) 2022-09-05 2024-03-06 Jean Chereau SAS Method for controlling loading dock equipment

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US6450587B1 (en) * 1998-07-01 2002-09-17 55 Brake Company Vehicle brake safety system apparatus and methods
US20050102042A1 (en) * 2002-04-18 2005-05-12 Terence Reynard Zone specific remote master control panel for loading dock equipment
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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20200407174A1 (en) * 2019-06-28 2020-12-31 Hubei University Vehicle measurement system for automatic conveyor
US11643283B2 (en) * 2019-06-28 2023-05-09 Hubei University Vehicle measurement system for automatic conveyor
FR3111340A1 (en) * 2020-06-15 2021-12-17 Jean Chereau Sas Device for immobilizing a road freight vehicle and associated method
EP3925912A1 (en) * 2020-06-15 2021-12-22 Jean Chereau SAS Device for immobilising a road vehicle for transporting goods and associated method
FR3123639A1 (en) * 2021-06-04 2022-12-09 Esa Docking Security Method and system for managing the loading/unloading of a vehicle on a logistics platform.
EP4332033A1 (en) 2022-09-05 2024-03-06 Jean Chereau SAS Method for controlling loading dock equipment
FR3139330A1 (en) * 2022-09-05 2024-03-08 Jean Chereau Sas Method for controlling loading dock equipment

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EP3394688A1 (en) 2018-10-31

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