Flatbed loading system with self-aligning platforms

An apparatus for facilitating loading and unloading access to a flatbed having an elongated support member that is defined by a pair of elongated opposed sides, the apparatus comprising:

• a. a platform elongated along a lengthwise axis and defining a first end and a second end axially opposite the first end, the platform further defining an upper surface configured to carry the weight of workers and cargo moving between the platform and the flatbed;
• b. a first linear actuator pivotally connected to the platform near the first end of the platform and configured to move linearly in a direction generally perpendicular to the lengthwise axis of the platform;
• c. a first limit switch carried by the platform near the first end of the platform and configured so that when triggered automatically by approach of the first end of the platform into flush contact with the side of the flatbed, movement of the first linear actuator stops, which stops movement of the first end of the platform associated with the first linear actuator toward the side of the flatbed;
• d. a second linear actuator pivotally connected to the platform near the second end of the platform and configured to move linearly in a direction generally perpendicular to the lengthwise axis of the platform;
• e. a second limit switch carried by the platform near the second end of the platform and configured so that when triggered automatically by approach of the second end of the platform into flush contact with the side of the flatbed, movement of the second linear actuator stops, which stops movement of the second end of the platform associated with the second linear actuator toward the side of the flatbed;
• wherein the platform defines an upper deck with an inboard side extending between the first end and the second end of the platform, the platform includes a first bumper disposed near the first end of the platform and configured so as to be resiliently pivotable with respect to the inboard side of deck;
• and
• wherein the first bumper is rendered resiliently pivotable by at least one pivoting member, the pivoting member having opposite ends and having one of its ends pivotally connected to the deck of the platform and the other of its ends pivotally connected to the bumper, wherein each end of the pivoting member is biased by a spring.