Warehouse Vehicle Detection with Indication

Suitable for outdoor environments – T30R, with an IP67 rated housing, offers more robust detection capabilities than laser or ultrasonic solutions for outdoor applications where sunlight, wind, rain, snow, and extreme temperatures can be problematic

Real-time alerts – Real-time monitoring with wireless products keeps deliveries moving efficiently 

Loading docks are key access points inside most companies can directly influence the general workflow of a warehouse. With frequent inbound and outbound shipments, loading docks are extremely busy and high traffic areas. Maintaining a steady flow of traffic at dock doors keeps processes efficient, productive, and reduces the number of shipping errors. An automatic system that alerts employees of vehicles waiting to be loaded or unloaded is imperative for large facilities where employees are not always near the service doors.

Detecting vehicles at a loading dock can be difficult because of unpredictable weather and environmental changes. Sensors are exposed to the elements and need to withstand fluctuations in weather and ambient light.

Trucks are made of a variety of materials and come in a wide range of colors. This can prove challenging for photoeletric sensors. The range can also present some challenges for sensing because vehicles vary in size and distance away from the sensor. A solution is needed that can reliably detect surfaces regardless of color, reflectivity, or texture and resist changes in the ambient weather.

Loading docks can also be very loud and standard doorbells may go unnoticed. Indication lights may also be missed due to prevalence of overhead and machine lighting throughout a warehouse setting.

Banner Engineering's T30R radar sensor uses its 15 m range to detect a truck's arrival. It utilizes Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) for detection of stationary or moving targets. The T30R can be taught a reliable background to recognize when any sized vehicle is present. The T30R is paired with a DX80 wireless node to send an output to trigger an alarm to employees, informing them of vehicles that are waiting outside.

The T30R's rugged, shock-resistant housing and radar technology enables it to withstand harsh environments, making it ideal for outdoor loading docks. T30R radar sensors are easy to set up with an intuitive software, IO-Link, push button, or remote TEACH-mode programming.

TL70 tower lights with audible alarms were installed in the warehouse to alert employees of waiting trucks. The TL70 can be heard and seen throughout the warehouse floor to ensure that deliveries get tended to quickly. Delivery dock applications also have other opportunities to install bright LED indicator lights for unmistakable operator guidance. K50 touch buttons can be installed as doorbells and connected to K80L segmented indicators to show which dock is in use. Banner LED technology provides low-power and long-life lighting products for bright visibility in a wide variety of settings. 

Loading docks can become needlessly congested if trucks and other deliveries are neglected for extended periods of time. Using Banner's T30R for vehicle detection creates optimum workflow and traffic management. The 15 m sensing range grants flexibility for mounting and robust housing and sensing beam can withstand outdoor environments without sacrificing sensing capabilities. Interfacing with a DX80 wireless node allows for indication and alerts to be broadcast throughout the warehouse floor with LED tower lights and indicators.