Abstract: A dock leveler including a support leg system configured to remain in a support position when the dock leveler descends rapidly and retract when the dock leveler descends slowly. Also, a dock leveler including a multi-tiered lip keeper support system for supporting the ramp at more than one position. In addition, a method of supporting a dock leveler ramp. The method includes attaching a first and second lip engaging apparatus under the ramp.

Abstract: A dock leveler for bridging the gap between a loading dock and the bed of a vehicle parked at the loading dock. The dock leveler is configured for installation on the top of the dock and is designed to rotate from a vertically-stored raised position to at least one lowered, operative position. In some embodiments, the dock leveler can be lowered either for normal operation so that the deck assembly rests on the bed of the vehicle or it can be lowered to accommodate an end-loading condition.

Abstract: A dock leveler for bridging the gap between a loading dock and the bed of a vehicle parked at the loading dock. The dock leveler is configured for installation on the top of the dock and is designed to rotate from a vertically-stored raised position to at least one lowered, operative position. In some embodiments, the dock leveler can be lowered either for normal operation so that the deck assembly rests on the bed of the vehicle or it can be lowered to accommodate an end-loading condition.

Abstract: An apparatus for supporting a dock leveler in a manner to reduce the effects of free fall and stump-out. The apparatus includes the use of a retractable support leg.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a dock leveler includes a support leg system configured to remain in a support position when the dock leveler descends rapidly and retract when the dock leveler descends slowly. In another embodiment, a dock leveler includes a multi-tiered lip keeper support system for supporting the ramp at more than one position. In another embodiment, a method of supporting a dock leveler ramp includes attaching a first and second lip engaging apparatus under the ramp.

Abstract: A wiper seal apparatus for forming a weather seal between a vehicle and a loading dock is provided. The wiper seal apparatus includes a seal member which bends toward a support mounted on a warehouse wall when deflected toward the wall, and applies a pressure on the top surface of a parked vehicle to form a seal.

Abstract: A dock leveler for bridging the gap between a loading dock and the bed of a vehicle parked at the loading dock. The dock leveler is configured for installation on the top of the dock and is designed to rotate from a vertically-stored raised position to at least one lowered, operative position. In some embodiments, the dock leveler can be lowered either for normal operation so that the deck assembly rests on the bed of the vehicle or it can be lowered to accommodate an end-loading condition.

Abstract: A unified docking apparatus is provided. It includes a single set of controls to operate a vehicle restraint, a dock door, a barrier device, a dock seal, and a loading light. Some optional embodiments include selector switch to select which apparatus the single set of controls will control. Other optional embodiments automatically select the apparatus to be controlled by the single set of controls. A method of operating a docking apparatus using a single set of controls is also provided.

Abstract: A dock leveler includes a support leg system configured to remain in a support position when the dock leveler descends rapidly and retract when the dock leveler descends slowly. A disengaging system is also included to disengage the support legs from retracting when the dock level lip is in a pendant position. A method of operating a dock leveler includes keeping a support leg in a support position when a dock leveler descends rapidly and retracting a support leg when the dock leveler descends slowly.

Abstract: A support leg system and method for supporting a dock leveler. The support leg system includes a support leg, cam, engaging surface, and counterbalancing apparatus. The method includes moving a support leg to a non-supporting position when the dock leveler ramp is engaged with a vehicle, and moving the support to a supporting position if the dock leveler ramp descends too quickly.

Abstract: A valve circuit, including a first and second circuit portion, for hydraulically controlling a loading dock vehicle restraint. The first circuit portion permits raising and lowering of the vehicle restraint. The second circuit portion permits extension and retraction of the vehicle restraint. Preferably, the first and second circuit portion are separate and are configured on the same valve block.

Abstract: The dock leveler is adapted to be mounted to a loading dock and includes a ramp, a guard, and a biasing member. The ramp is rotatably coupled to the loading dock and the guard is rotatably coupled to the ramp. The guard is rotated between a raised position that forms a barrier and a lowered position that permits loading equipment to freely pass. The biasing member is coupled to the guard and biases the guard toward the raised position when the guard is in the raised position and biases the guard toward the lowered position when the guard is in the lowered position.

Abstract: The invention concerns a loading bridge for making a connection between a loading platform and a vehicle, wherein the height of the bridge is variable at the side of the vehicle to allow for vehicles with different heights. A gas-operated driving mechanism is disclosed of which the costs are considerably less than prior art hydraulic driving mechanisms. Further a mechanism is disclosed for automatically controlling the movements of a lid connected with the loading bridge.