Edge protection gate

Abstract

An elevated loading/conveyor platform includes a generally rectangular knock-over gate positioned in the load-in side opening of the platform structure, where the knock-over gate is pivotally mounted within the load-in side opening and pivotable from a vertically upright barrier position to a generally horizontal loading position. The knock-over gate is biased to the vertical position by a return mechanism, which is designed to return the knock-over gate to its upright vertical orientation when no pallets are being conveyed thereover in the generally horizontal loading position. Preferably, the return mechanism utilizes a spring mechanism (such as gas springs), where the spring mechanism is of sufficient strength to pivot the knock-over gate from the horizontal loading position to the vertical position when no weight or force is being applied to the load-in side of the gate. Optionally, the barrier system may include a hold-down latch assembly for retaining the knock-over gate in its horizontal loading position until the pallet is conveyed beyond the barrier member. The load-in side of the knock-over gate also includes rollers attached thereto so as to facilitate the conveyance of articles thereover when in the generally horizontal loading position.