Visual time management for docks

Rite-Hite has introduced the Dok-Lok Dock Timer, a new visual management tool for loading docks.

The Dock Timer lets logistics personnel take control of each dock position by monitoring the total duration of loading activities.

Either counting up or down, with time displayed in minutes and hours (00:00 time format) at any interval, the dock timer automatically begins when the Dok-Lok vehicle restraint safely secures a trailer to the facility. When integrated with an optional trailer presence sensor, which helps confirm trailer presence without the need to step outside on the dangerous drive approach, the timer begins counting once a trailer is detected at the dock position. The dock timer stops counting when the vehicle restraint disengages the trailer, signifying the load is complete.

Facilities customize the set shipping window for each dock position, helping to accommodate various trailer types and load sizes.

The timer uses numbers and colored backgrounds on the interface for ease of adoption. The intuitive controls indicate with colored backgrounds crucial loading time milestones, such as: timer not running, timer running, shipping window within 30 minutes, shipping window exceeded and load complete.

Compatible with all new or existing Dok-Lok vehicle restraints, the seven-inch colour LCD Graphic User Interface (GUI) provides clean and simplified controls with a low voltage panel that is prewired with external connections brought into precoded terminals. The NEMA 4X GUI does not control the Dok-Lok or any other piece of loading dock equipment and is available as remote mount.

The dock timer allows facilities to increase trailer throughput to support additional capacity. The real-time visual management tool helps dock workers better prioritize material handling needs based off total displayed time. For example, black text on yellow background universally communicates that time is within 30 minutes of shipping window or time has been exceeded, so fees are incurring.

When used with Opti-Vu, the IIoT Platform automatically logs each load time allowing facilities to track loading processes and make data-informed decisions based on real-time events and historical trends at each dock position.