Retractable Loading Platform for Alleyway Receiving Solution

I was very proud to work with TJX Canada at their Winners location in Calgary, Alberta on a very unique project: Create and install a "drawbridge" loading platform in a tight alleyway.

Challenge

I was approached by the TJX Canada construction team with a unique challenge that their current suppliers couldn’t resolve: Install a loading platform in a narrow downtown alley where delivery trucks could not back up to the dock. Previously the store had utilized a cable-driven drop platform but the cable had snapped previously, creating an extremely dangerous situation as the platform crashed to the ground.

Conditions

The store is in a Calgary historic area so no permanent equipment could be installed in the alleyway causing an obstruction. The loading platform needed to work with the existing store design and could not create any major construction or disruption.

Safety for store staff, delivery personnel and any pedestrian traffic is a top factor for TJX as a company. Additionally the loading platform needed to stand up to daily use and in all weather conditions in Calgary.

Solution

After meeting with TJX, we gained an in-depth understanding of the site conditions and store operations. A design was then developed using TJX’s unique parameters to satisfy all operational and physical requirements of the project.

Working closely with the TJX logistics team, we determined that the delivery truck design and style that requires access would be equipped with a lift gate and would consistently be this truck style. We then consulted with the TJX construction team on certain considerations and performance criteria that needed to be met and altered the design into the final specification and drawings of the product.

Custom blueprints were created and approved, and manufacturing was completed. The installation process was completed in one day including electrical and mechanical work.