Abstract: A device is provided for releasably securing a parked vehicle to an adjacent structure. The device is provided with a first member hingedly mounted for movement between an operative mode and an inoperative mode. When the first member is in an operative mode the distal end thereof will releasably engage a portion of the parked vehicle and retain same in a desired position relative to the adjacent structure. When the first member is in an inoperative mode, it assumes a vehicle-release position. The first member is provided with means for moving same from the inoperative mode to the operative mode. A further means is provided for automatically locking the first member in an operative mode. The further means includes a means for effecting controlled unlocking of the first member whereby the latter will automatically return to its inoperative mode.

Abstract: A releasable lock mechanism is provided in combination with a stationary first member and a second member, the latter being adapted to assume various selected positions of rotary adjustment with respect to the first member. The lock mechanism includes a first lock component carried by one of the members and a complemental pivotally adjustable second lock component carried by the other member. The first lock component has a rounded periphery which is provided with a plurality of annularly spaced pockets; each pocket corresponding to a selected position of rotary adjustment of the second member with respect to the first member. The second lock component assumes an interlocking engagement with a peripheral pocket, when the second member is disposed at a selected position of rotary adjustment with respect to the first member, and retains the second member in the selected position.

Abstract: A releasable locking device is provided which is particularly suitable for retaining a parked vehicle against a loading dock or the like during loading or unloading thereof. The device includes a pivotally mounted hook-like member movable between operative and inoperative modes. The member is secured to the front side of the loading dock by a carriage having a first section on which the hook-like member is mounted, and a second section affixed to the dock front side. The first section is adjustable relative to the second section in a substantially vertical plane. The first section is biased to normally assume a predetermined rest position which is at a maximum elevation with respect to the roadway supporting the vehicle. A reversible electric motor is mounted on the carriage first section and actuates the hook-like member between the operative and inoperative modes. When in an operative mode, the hook-like member interlockingly engages the parked vehicle.

Abstract: A dock leveler for a dock loading surface is provided with includes a frame fixedly mounted adjacent the front edge of the surface, and an extension assembly mounted on the frame for movement between operative and inoperative modes. The assembly includes a dock panel hinged to the frame and a lip panel hinged to the dock panel. The dock panel is coplaner with the loading surface and the lip panel depends therefrom when the assembly is in the inoperative mode. A linkage is provided having pivotally connected first and second arms. An end of the first arm is pivoted to the frame and an end of the second arm is pivoted to the lip panel. Power means urges the dock panel to move from the inoperative mode to a raised position prior to assuming an operative mode. The dock panel will move to the raised position upon a predetermined external force being applied to the dock panel. A trip member is provided having a central section pivoted to the dock panel.

Abstract: A device is provided for use in releasably securing a vehicle against a loading dock during loading and unloading of the vehicle. The device comprises a hingedly mounted vehicle-engaging member located adjacent a front wall of the dock and beneath the plane of the dock loading surface. A handle is provided for effecting controlled movement of the member between an inoperative mode and an operative mode. When in an operative mode, a portion of the member interlocks with a component of the vehicle and restrains movement of the vehicle away from the loading dock. When in an inoperative mode, the member assumes a vehicle-release position wherein the vehicle is free to move away from the loading dock.

Abstract: A device is provided for use in releasably securing one unit (e.g., the rear end of a truck vehicle) against a second unit (e.g., a loading dock). The device comprises an elongated member mounted for controlled endwise movement relative to a locking assembly, the latter being adjustably mounted on the loading dock. Carried by the elongated member and extending from an end thereof towards the truck is an attaching means which is secured to the truck. A friction means is adjustably mounted within the locking assembly for movement between operative and inoperative positions. When in an operative position, the elongated member can be moved endwise in only one direction away from the truck. When in an inoperative position, the elongated member can be moved in either endwise direction relative to the locking assembly. The friction means is biased to normally assume an operative position.

Abstract: A hydraulically actuated device secures the back end of a truck against a surface of a loading dock during loading and unloading of the truck. The device includes a self-aligning hydraulic cylinder which is adjustably mounted on the loading dock, and a piston mounted within the cylinder and having an exposed portion to which an attaching means is connected. The attaching means is adapted to be releasably connected to the truck. Control means is provided for directing hydraulic pressure to the cylinder so as to effect movement of the piston in one direction whereby the attaching means exerts a pulling force on the truck to cause the latter to be secured against the loading dock surface, or in a second direction whereby the attaching means assumes a position wherein it may be disconnected from the truck. Signal means, responsive to hydraulic pressure, is provided to indicate when hydraulic pressure is being, or not being, exerted on the piston.

Abstract: A leveler assembly is provided for mounting within a pit which is normally formed in a loading dock. The pit includes a base recessed a substantial distance below the platform surface of the dock, a rear wall, an open top and an open front side. The assembly includes a frame anchored within the pit adjacent the base thereof. The frame includes a front section disposed adjacent the open front side of the pit and recessed a substantial distance from the open top. The frame also includes a rear section having a top portion disposed adjacent to but beneath the pit open top. Hingedly connected to the rear section top portion is a loading bearing deck member which is adapted to normally assume a neutral position, wherein the exposed surface thereof is substantially coplanar with the dock platform surface. Adjustably connected to the underside of the deck member at a location spaced rearwardly a substantial distance from the front edge of the deck member is a first fluid pressure-responsive telescoping component.