Trailer restraint and control system provide more control, security at docks

Dec. 2, 2014

A new vehicle restraint system from Rite-Hite safely connects trailers and intermodal container chassis to docks, preventing trailer-dock separation. The Dok-Lok SHR-5000 features a patented “shadow hook” design.

“In today’s global economy, loading dock operators are receiving a wide variety of trailers and containers,” said Troy Bergum, product manager. “The shadow hook is a universal restraint designed to secure the widest amount of trailer configurations and sizes, including intermodal chassis. It’s a universal restraint designed to meet the challenges of today’s loading docks.”

The Dok-Lok features a wrap on rear-impact guards a vertical engagement range of 9-30 in.

When the Dok-Lok SHR-5000 is activated, the shadow hook attempts to wrap around the rear-impact guard. If the hook comes in contact with a rear-impact guard obstruction, the shadow hook pivots to secure the trailer in place. If the trailer moves, the shadow hook locks in the safety stop, which helps prevent a wide variety of trailer separation accidents, the company said.

The Dok-Lok can interface directly with security systems to help prevent trailer theft as well.

Solid steel construction helps it withstand repeated contact with trailers backing in and out of the loading dock area, while extension springs provide upward force against rear-impact guards to keep a trailer secure during loading – even with air-ride trailers. The Dok-Lok SHR-5000 features a corrosion-resistant finish and an IP-66 rated motor to prevent water and dust infiltration.

“Rite-Hite pioneered the vehicle restraint industry by introducing the Dok-Lok in 1980,” Bergum said. “We have continued to evolve our Dok-Lok restraints to meet the constant changes in our industry, including trailer design, loading dock design and regulatory compliance. The Dok-Lok SHR-5000 is the next breakthrough in our long history of innovation.”

The Dok-Lok SHR-5000 comes standard with the Rite-Vu Light Communication System, which provides constant communication of restraint status to the truck driver, forklift operator and loading dock personnel. In addition to lights on the control box, the system features Corner-Vu lights that are located in the upper corners of the interior dock door. There are also Leveler-Vu lights that are mounted on the dock leveler to confirm restraint status as the forklift driver exits the trailer.

Rite-Hite has also released a new control system. The Dok-Commander integrates the controls of multiple loading dock devices into a centralized, easy-to-operate control system. It can power a variety of equipment at each loading dock position, including a vehicle restraint, dock leveler, dock door and dock light.

The Dok-Commander comes with an interlock feature to ensure equipment is engaged in the proper sequence of operation. A Green Light Interlock disables the use of a hydraulic leveler or overhead door until the vehicle restraint has achieved a safe engagement. An Overhead Door Interlock requires the overhead door to be opened prior to leveler operation. And finally, a Stored Leveler Interlock ensures the leveler is stored safely before the restraint is able to release a trailer.

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