Abstract: A bumper for use at a loading dock has two ranges of front-to-back movement: one range for sealing the gap that might otherwise exist between the rear edge of a truck and the front face of the bumper and a second range for absorbing the impact of the truck backing into the dock. In some cases, a spring provides a relatively light sealing force between the bumper and the truck, and a compressible core provides a much greater impact-absorbing force that helps stop the rearward movement of the truck. In some embodiments, the bumper pivots by gravity when operating in the sealing range.

Abstract: A bumper for use at a loading dock has two ranges of front-to-back movement: one range for sealing the gap that might otherwise exist between the rear edge of a truck and the front face of the bumper and a second range for absorbing the impact of the truck backing into the dock. In some cases, a spring provides a relatively light sealing force between the bumper and the truck, and a compressible core provides a much greater impact-absorbing force that helps stop the rearward movement of the truck. In some embodiments, the bumper pivots by gravity when operating in the sealing range.

Abstract: A low drag tailgate is shown which can be installed within a tailgate opening at the trailing end of the open top cargo compartment of a vehicle. A louver retaining frame is mounted as a portion of the conventional tailgate which has an outer extent mounted generally flush with the exterior sidewall of the tailgate and having an inner extent which provides an opening for the passage of air from the vehicle cargo compartment through the frame. Louvers are pivotally mounted within the louver retaining frame. At least selected ones of the louvers have a counterweight installed thereon which determines the position of the louver as the tailgate is raised and lowered.