Dock leveler lift assembly and method for operation

摘要

A dock leveler lift assembly (10;20) for facilitating loading and unloading operations from a loading dock (L) is provided. The assembly includes a deck (40) adjustable in a leveler mode between selected raised and lowered angular positions relative to the platform surface of the dock (L) as well as adjustable in a lift mode between lift and descent positions while the deck is maintained in a horizontal position. The deck is releasably mounted on a first mechanism (24,26) for raising and lowering the deck (40) in a horizontal position. A second mechanism (70) releasably retains a deck rear edge portion pivotally attached to an elevated portion of a frame. Pivotal attachment (70) of the deck (40) to the frame (14) coupled with lowering of the first mechanism (30) out of direct contact with the underside of the deck (40) permits movement of the deck (40) to a lowered angular position relative to the dock surface (L). A method for operating such an assembly is also provided.