Kelley Company, Inc.

Ben Fritz

A method and conversion kit for converting a non-inflatable dock leveler having a lifting mechanism to an inflatable bag dock leveler. The method includes removing the lifting mechanism from the non-inflatable dock leveler and coupling an inflatable lifting assembly to the non-inflatable dock leveler. Removing the lifting mechanism preferably includes removing the spring of a mechanical dock leveler or removing the hydraulic cylinder of a hydraulic dock leveler. The method preferably also includes connecting first and second support members to the non-inflatable dock leveler to support the inflatable lifting assembly. The conversion kit includes an inflatable lifting assembly and a first support member for supporting a first portion of the inflatable lifting assembly. Further preferably, the conversion kit includes a second support member for supporting a second portion of the inflatable lifting assembly.

Method for converting a dock leveler to a dock leveler operated with an inflatable member and a dock leveler produced by the same

A loading dock and vehicle restraint assembly for securing a vehicle during loading operations. The vehicle restraint comprises a latching member (e.g., a hook) movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, and an electromechanical brake coupled to the latching member and movable between a restraining position, where the latching member is restrained from movement, and an unrestraining position, where the latching member can be moved. Preferably, the brake is mechanically biased toward the restraining position (e.g., by a spring), and is moved to the unrestrained position by an electromagnet. The assembly can be used to perform a method of restraining a vehicle at a desired location using a vehicle restraint having a latching member and a brake coupled to the latching member. The method includes the steps of parking the vehicle at a desired location, positioning the brake in an unrestraining position to allow movement of the latching member; moving the latching member from a disengaged position to an engaged position, and positioning the brake in a restraining position to restrain movement of the latching member. The new design is also adapted to be easily installed onto existing vehicle restraints.

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Milwaukee, WI, United States of America

Ben Fritz