Pneumatic telescopic column assembly

Abstract

The present invention relates to a pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) for supporting and moving military equipment, communication equipment, lighting equipment and / or surveillance equipment, which extends along an axis (V-V) and includes a plurality of tube groups (2) that are telescopically configured between a compact configuration and an extended configuration. Such a plurality of tube groups (2) include a base tube group (3), an intermediate tube group (4) and a head tube group (5). The base tube group (3) includes a base tube element (30) and a base locking ring (31), which includes at least one horizontal latch (32), at least one actuator (35) and at least one vertical latch (33). The intermediate tube group (4) includes an intermediate tubular element (40) and an intermediate locking ring (41), which includes at least one horizontal intermediate latch (42). Finally, the tubular head group (5) includes a tubular head element (50).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of telescopic columns. In particular, the present invention aims to provide a pneumatic telescopic column assembly for supporting and moving military equipment, communication equipment, lighting equipment and / or surveillance equipment. Background Art

[0002] In the prior art, pneumatic telescopic columns are divided into two types.

[0003] The first type involves manual pneumatic telescopic columns in which each tubular element is manually blocked relative to the preceding tubular element of larger diameter by an operator on site. In other words, this type of column requires manual blocking by the operator (who constrains each tubular element to the preceding tubular element by operating a lever blocking system or by mechanical interference (e.g., by friction).

[0004] The tubular elements are also referred to as "stages" by those skilled in the art.

[0005] The second type of pneumatic telescopic columns are semi-automatic telescopic columns. In these semi-automatic telescopic columns, during the column's extension movement, each tubular element is automatically blocked to the preceding tubular element, for example by a handle or lever system activated by a torsion spring. However, during the column's retraction step, an operator's presence is required to manually release the tubular elements. For example, the operator must open a handle to allow the column to retract, i.e., move to a configuration in which the tubular elements are concentrically housed within each other.

[0006] Both types of pneumatic telescopic columns, manual and semi-automatic, lack a unique sequence for extending the tubular elements. In other words, upon introduction of compressed air into the column, the column will not always begin extending the same tubular element. Instead, the sequence can vary depending on how the lubricant is distributed, the friction between the tubular elements, or wear caused by sliding. Consequently, there is no mechanical system to ensure a safe and precise sequence for extending and retracting pneumatic telescopic columns. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One object of the present invention is to propose a pneumatic telescopic column assembly that avoids the above-mentioned drawbacks associated with pneumatic telescopic columns according to the prior art.

[0008] In particular, one object of the present invention is to propose a fully automatic pneumatic telescopic column assembly with a defined extension and retraction sequence.

[0009] The object is achieved by a pneumatic telescopic column assembly according to a first embodiment of the present application, an extension method according to a second embodiment of the present application, and a retraction method according to a third embodiment of the present application. The present application also describes preferred embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] The characteristics and advantages of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly, and the extension method and the retraction method according to the invention will become apparent from the following description showing a preferred embodiment given by way of indicative, non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] - Figure 1 shows a cross section of a pneumatic telescopic column assembly in a compact configuration;

[0012] - Figure 1a showing a second cross-section of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly in a compact configuration;

[0013] - Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A cross-section of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly in an extended configuration;

[0014] - Figure 2a Shows Figure 1a A cross-section of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly in an extended configuration;

[0015] - Figure 3 shows a perspective view of a pneumatic telescopic column assembly with its components separated;

[0016] - FIG4 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the horizontal intermediate latch in the unblocked position or the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch in the auxiliary unblocked position;

[0017] - Figure 4a shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly in a pre-blocking configuration;

[0018] - FIG4 b shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the horizontal intermediate latch in the locked position or the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch in the auxiliary locking position;

[0019] - Figure 5 shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the actuator in an advanced position;

[0020] - Figure 5a shows a detailed cross-sectional view of the actuator in a retracted position;

[0021] - Figure 5b showing a detailed cross-sectional view of the actuator in an at least partially retracted position;

[0022] - Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the base locking ring with the components separated;

[0023] - Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the auxiliary intermediate locking ring with the components separated;

[0024] - Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the intermediate locking ring with the components separated;

[0025] - Figure 9 A perspective view of a horizontal intermediate latch or auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch is shown with the components separated;

[0026] - Figure 9a A top view of a horizontal intermediate latch or auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch is shown;

[0027] - Figure 9b a cross-sectional view showing a horizontal intermediate latch or an auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch, and

[0028] - Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of a pneumatic telescopic column assembly according to a design variant is shown in a compact configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] In the drawings, a pneumatic telescopic column assembly according to the present invention is indicated as a whole by reference numeral 1 .

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, a pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 is proposed, which is used to support and move military equipment, communication equipment, lighting equipment and / or surveillance equipment. The pneumatic telescopic column assembly extends along an axis VV and includes a plurality of tube groups 2 and devices for injecting and exhausting air. The plurality of tube groups can be telescopically configured along the axis VV between a compact configuration and an extended configuration, and these devices are suitable for moving such a plurality of tube groups 2.

[0031] In the compact configuration, the pneumatic telescopic column is fully retracted, while in the extended configuration the column is fully extended along axis VV. Intermediate configurations (ie partially extended or partially retracted) are also possible between the compact and extended configurations.

[0032] Such a plurality of tube groups 2 include a base tube group 3 , an intermediate tube group 4 and a head tube group 5 .

[0033] The base tube set 3 comprises a base tubular element 30 and a base locking ring 31. The base tubular element 30 extends between a base tubular element lower end 30' and a base tubular element upper end 30". The base locking ring 31 is fixed to the base tubular element upper end 30" and comprises at least one horizontal latch 32, at least one actuator 35 and at least one vertical latch 33. The actuator 35 comprises a rod 350 orthogonal to the axis VV and integrally connected to the at least one horizontal latch 32. The horizontal latch 32 and the vertical latch 33 are angularly spaced apart. For example, the horizontal latch 32 and the vertical latch 33 are arranged in the base locking ring 31 at an angle of 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0034] The intermediate tube group 4 includes an intermediate tubular element 40 and an intermediate locking ring 41. The intermediate tubular element 40 extends between a lower end 40' and an upper end 40". The intermediate locking ring 41 is fixed to the upper end 40" and includes at least one horizontal intermediate latch 42, which is axially aligned with the vertical latch 33 and can be engaged by the vertical latch 33. In other words, in the pneumatic telescopic column assembly, it can be seen that the horizontal intermediate latch 42 is positioned above the vertical latch 33 along the axis VV. In detail, the horizontal intermediate latch 42 is orthogonal to the axis VV, while the vertical latch 33 is parallel to the axis VV.

[0035] For the purposes of this discussion, the adjective “horizontal” refers to elements that are arranged orthogonally to the axis VV, while the adjective “vertical” refers to elements that are arranged parallel to the axis VV.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the head tube set 5 includes a head tubular element 50 extending between a head tubular element lower end 50 ′ and a head tubular element upper end 50 ″.

[0037] During movement between the compact and extended configurations, the horizontal intermediate latch 42 translates horizontally between an unblocked position and a blocked position. In the unblocked position, the head tubular element 50 disengages from the intermediate tubular element 40, and the vertical latch 33 engages the horizontal intermediate latch 42. Specifically, when the head tubular element 50 disengages from the intermediate tubular element 40, it will be understood that the head tubular element 50 slides relative to the intermediate tubular element 40 and is axially released. In the blocked position, the head tubular element 50 engages the intermediate tubular element 40, and the horizontal intermediate latch 42 engages a horizontal intermediate latch seat 54 provided in the head tubular element 50. The actuator 35 is actuated between a retracted position and an advanced position. In the retracted position, the intermediate tubular element 40 slides along the axis VV. In the advanced position, the horizontal latch 32, integral with the rod 350, engages a horizontal latch seat 44 provided in the intermediate tubular element 40 and blocks extension of the intermediate tubular element 40 relative to the base tubular element 30.

[0038] According to an embodiment, the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 further includes at least one auxiliary intermediate tube group 6, which is disposed between the base tube group 3 and the intermediate tube group 4. This auxiliary intermediate tube group 6 includes an auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and an intermediate locking ring 61. The auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 extends between an auxiliary intermediate tubular element lower end 60' and an auxiliary intermediate tubular element upper end 60". The auxiliary intermediate locking ring 61 is attached to the auxiliary intermediate tubular element upper end 60" and includes at least one auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 and at least one auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63. The at least one auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 is axially aligned with the vertical latch 33 and is engageable by the vertical latch 33. The at least one auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63 is axially aligned with the horizontal intermediate latch 42 and is engageable by the horizontal intermediate latch 42. The auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 and the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63 are angularly spaced, for example, arranged at 90 degrees relative to each other.

[0039] During movement between the compact and extended configurations, the horizontal intermediate latch 42 translates horizontally between an unblocking position and a blocking position. In the unblocking position, the head tubular element 50 disengages from the intermediate tubular element 40, and the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63 engages the horizontal intermediate latch 42. In the blocking position, the head tubular element 50 engages the intermediate tubular element 40, and the horizontal intermediate latch 42 engages a horizontal intermediate latch seat 54 defined in the head tubular element 50. In particular, in the blocking position, the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63 disengages from the horizontal intermediate latch 42. The auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 translates horizontally between an auxiliary unblocking position and an auxiliary blocking position. In the auxiliary unblocking position, the intermediate tubular element 40 disengages from the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60, and the vertical latch 33 engages the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62. In the auxiliary blocking position, the intermediate tubular element 40 engages the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60, and the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 engages a horizontal latch seat 44 defined in the intermediate tubular element 40. Specifically, in the auxiliary blocking position, the vertical latch 33 is disengaged from the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62. The actuator 35 is actuated between a retracted position and an advanced position. In the retracted position, the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 slides along the axis VV. In the advanced position, the horizontal latch 32, which is integral with the rod 350, engages a latch seat 64 formed in the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and blocks extension of the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 relative to the base tubular element 30.

[0040] For the purposes of this discussion, the general expression "tube set" refers to any tube set in the plurality of tube sets 2. In other words, the expression "tube set" generally refers to the base tube set 3 or the auxiliary intermediate tube set 6, the intermediate tube set 4 or the head tube set 5.

[0041] In this specification, the term “tubular member” generally refers to the base tubular member 30 , or the auxiliary intermediate tubular member 60 , or the intermediate tubular member 40 , or the head tubular member 50 .

[0042] For the purposes of this specification, the term “locking ring” generally refers to the base locking ring 31 , or the auxiliary intermediate locking ring 61 or the intermediate locking ring 41 .

[0043] In an embodiment, the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 includes at least two auxiliary intermediate tube groups 6 arranged sequentially such that the auxiliary vertical intermediate latches 63 of the auxiliary intermediate locking ring 61 following the base tube group 3 are vertically aligned with and engageable with the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latches 62 of the subsequent auxiliary intermediate locking ring 61. In other words, the auxiliary vertical intermediate latches 63 of the auxiliary intermediate locking ring 61 of the auxiliary intermediate tube group 6 proximal to the base tube group 3 are vertically aligned with and engageable with the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latches 62 of the auxiliary intermediate locking ring 61 of the subsequent auxiliary intermediate tube group 6.

[0044] In this specification, the term "successive" refers to the tubular element having a diameter immediately smaller than that of the tubular element in question, while the term "preceding" refers to the tubular element having a diameter immediately greater than that of the tubular element in question. Thus, since the base tubular element concentrically contains all the successive tubular elements within it (these successive tubular elements having progressively decreasing diameters), the base tubular element must be considered the preceding tubular element in an absolute sense, i.e., before the auxiliary intermediate tubular elements, the intermediate tubular elements and the head tubular element.

[0045] On the other hand, since the head tubular element is concentrically contained within all preceding tubular elements (these preceding tubular elements have progressively increasing diameters), the head tubular element must be considered in an absolute sense as a successive tubular element, i.e., successive to the base tubular element, the auxiliary intermediate tubular elements, and the intermediate tubular elements. In other words, the base tubular element precedes at least one auxiliary intermediate tubular element, which precedes the head tubular element. Conversely, the head tubular element is successive to the intermediate tubular element, which is successive to at least one auxiliary intermediate tubular element, which is successive to the base tubular element.

[0046] According to an embodiment, the vertical latch 33 and the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63 include first and second guide surfaces 10 and 12, respectively, which engage with first and second counter-guide surfaces 20 and 22, respectively, provided on the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 and the horizontal intermediate latch 42. The first and second counter-guide surfaces 10 and 20 are located on a pair of first parallel planes P1′ and P1″, which are different from the pair of second parallel planes P2′ and P2″, on which the second and second counter-guide surfaces 12 and 22 are located. The mutual sliding between the first and second counter-guide surfaces 10 and 20 moves the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 to the auxiliary blocking position and / or the horizontal intermediate latch 42 to the blocking position. Conversely, the mutual sliding between the second and second counter-guide surfaces 12 and 22 moves the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 to the auxiliary blocking position and / or the horizontal intermediate latch 42 to the unblocking position.

[0047] When the pneumatic telescopic mast assembly 1 is in the compact configuration, the upper surfaces 26b of the locking rings 31, 61, and 41 contact the lower surfaces 26a of the successive locking rings. Upon the introduction of compressed air into the mast, the locking rings separate axially along the axis VV, and the vertical latch 33 and the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63 engage the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 and the horizontal intermediate latch 42, respectively, thereby placing the mast in an axial pre-blocking configuration. This pre-blocking configuration ensures regular extension of the mast because, as the hydrostatic pressure within the mast increases, the tube set with the smallest diameter (i.e., the head tube set 5) begins to extend, followed by all preceding tube sets until the auxiliary intermediate tube set 6, which has a diameter directly smaller than that of the fixed base tube set 3, is reached.

[0048] Similarly, when it is desired to retract the pneumatic telescopic mast assembly 1 and bring it from the extended configuration to the compact configuration, the hydrostatic pressure within the pneumatic telescopic mast assembly decreases and the larger diameter tubular elements are retracted first (except for the fixed base tubular element 30). Consequently, the auxiliary intermediate locking ring 61 exerts a greater force on the fluid within the mast than the successive locking rings, so that the intermediate auxiliary tubular element 60 is first sealed within the base tubular element 30. This is followed by the retraction of successive tubular elements until the head tubular element 50, which is the last tubular element to be sealed.

[0049] In pneumatic telescopic columns according to the prior art, a phenomenon known to those skilled in the art as "bounce" is observed. This phenomenon occurs during the closing of the telescopic column, i.e., during the retraction of the tubular elements in a compact configuration. Due to the drop in pressure within the column, the tube groups with smaller diameters (e.g., the intermediate tube group 4 and the head tube group 5) do not retract continuously after the preceding tubular element has retracted, but rather must generate a vacuum within the column before they can close again. Due to this vacuum, the tube groups following the already closed tube group drop rapidly, causing an increase in the hydrostatic pressure within the column. This sudden increase leads to an overpressure within the column, which, in addition to the retraction of the tube group during the closing step, also causes the preceding tubular element to rise synchronously. The effect of the opposite and synchronous movements of the two consecutively arranged tube groups causes the upper surface 26b of the preceding locking ring to repeatedly collide with the lower surface 26a of the succeeding locking ring until the succeeding tubular element is fully retracted. From this repeated collision between the upper surface 26b of the already retracted, rising tube group and the lower surface 26a of the retracting tube group, a kind of "rebound" between two successively arranged locking rings is observed. This rebound effect is reminiscent of the movement of a bouncing ball, hence the name "rebound".

[0050] On the other hand, in the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, during the closing of the column (i.e., during the retraction of the tube group), the pneumatic telescopic column assembly enters an axial pre-blocking configuration when the tube group is closed, so that when an overpressure is generated due to the effect of the rapid retraction of the successive tube groups due to the decompression in the column, the tube group cannot rise, which would cause the preceding tube group to rise if there was no pre-blocking.

[0051] Advantageously, the pneumatic telescopic column assembly solves the "spring-back" problem.

[0052] According to an embodiment, the mutual static engagement between the first guide surface 10 and the corresponding first counter-guide surface 20 defines a pre-blocking configuration between two consecutive tube groups (Figure 4a). In the pre-blocking state, during the movement of the column between the compact configuration and the extended configuration, the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 and / or the horizontal intermediate latch 42 are free to slide on the outer wall of the tubular elements of the consecutive tube group. In the pre-blocking configuration, during the movement of the column assembly between the extended configuration and the compact configuration, the axial movement of the preceding tubular element is blocked. In other words, during the movement of the column assembly between the extended configuration and the compact configuration, the upward movement of the preceding tubular element is prevented by the engagement between the first guide surface 10 and the corresponding first counter-guide surface 20.

[0053] According to the embodiment, the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 and the horizontal intermediate latch 42 each include a latch frame 15 and a latch insert 17. A frame through-hole 16 is formed in the latch frame 15. The latch insert 17 can be accommodated in the frame through-hole 16 by shape and / or force coupling. In the latch insert 17, an insertion through-hole 18 is also obtained, which is delimited by four mutually orthogonal walls 19a, 19b, 19c, 19d, wherein the two walls 19a, 19c facing each other are shaped so as to form a first counter-guide surface 20 and a second counter-guide surface 22. The insertion through-hole 18 extends along an insertion hole axis II substantially parallel to the axis VV and can be engaged by the vertical latch 33 and / or the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63.

[0054] In an embodiment, the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 and the horizontal intermediate latch 42 extend between the tubular element engagement end 24a and the ring engagement end 24b. The tubular element engagement end 24a slides on the tubular elements 60, 40, 50 of the outer wall and can be engaged in the latch seat 64, or in the horizontal latch seat 44, or in the horizontal intermediate latch seat 54. The ring engagement end 24b can be engaged by the locking ring 61, 41 by means of a pre-compressed elastic element 25 (e.g., a coil spring), which promotes the translation of the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 into the auxiliary blocking position or the translation of the horizontal intermediate latch 42 into the blocking position.

[0055] In an embodiment, each locking ring 31, 41, 61 is provided with a through-type horizontal latch receiving hole 27 and is suitable for receiving the horizontal latch 32, or the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62, or the horizontal intermediate latch 42. The locking ring 31, 41, 61 further includes a contact plate 28 that is suitable for closing the opening of the horizontal latch receiving hole 27 so that the pre-compression elastic element 25 is arranged between the ring engaging end 24b and the contact plate 28.

[0056] According to the embodiment, the intermediate auxiliary locking ring 61 and the intermediate locking ring 41 are each further provided with a vertical latch receiving hole 29, which is a blind hole and is adapted to respectively receive the vertical latch 33 and the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63. Observing a cross section of the auxiliary intermediate locking ring 61 or the intermediate locking ring 41, it can be seen that the horizontal latch receiving hole 27 and the vertical latch receiving hole 29 intersect to form a cross shape.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the actuator 35 is a single-acting actuator in which the rod 350 is normally extended in an advancement position.

[0058] According to an embodiment, each tube group 3, 4, 5, 6 further includes a piston 36, 46, 56, 66, which is provided with a piston step 360, 460, 560, 660 and a piston lift 361, 461, 561, 661. The piston step 360, 460, 560, 660 is adapted to abut against the lower end 30', 40', 50', 60' of the tubular element 30, 40, 50, 60. The piston lift 361, 461, 561, 661 is adapted to secure the tubular element 30, 40, 50, 60 to the piston 36, 46, 56, 66.

[0059] According to an embodiment, the tube sets 3, 4, 6 further comprise end stops 37, 47, 67 fixed internally to the upper ends 30", 40", 60" of the tubular elements 30, 40, 60 to define the maximum excursion of consecutive tube sets.

[0060] In an embodiment, the base tube set 3 further comprises an annular support base 36 and a tubular end stop 37 .

[0061] The annular support base 36 is provided with a step portion 360 for abutting the lower end of the base tubular element 30', and a lift portion 361 for fixing the base tubular element 30 to the annular support base 36. A tubular end stop 37 is internally fixed to the base tubular element upper end 30" to limit the maximum deflection of the at least one auxiliary intermediate tube group 6.

[0062] The auxiliary intermediate tube set 6 further comprises an auxiliary piston 66 and an auxiliary tubular end stop 67. The auxiliary piston 66 is adapted to slide on the inner wall of the base tubular element 30 and is provided with an auxiliary piston step 660 for abutting the auxiliary intermediate tubular element lower end 60' and for abutting the tubular end stop 37, and an auxiliary piston lift 661 for securing the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 to the auxiliary piston 66. The auxiliary tubular end stop 67 is internally secured to the auxiliary intermediate tubular element upper end 60 to limit the maximum deflection of successive auxiliary intermediate tube sets 6 or intermediate tube sets 4.

[0063] The intermediate tube group 4 further includes an intermediate piston 46 and an intermediate tubular end stop 47. The intermediate piston 46 is adapted to slide on the inner wall of the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and is provided with an auxiliary intermediate piston step 460 for abutting the lower end of the intermediate tubular element 40' and for abutting the auxiliary tubular end stop 67, and an intermediate piston lift 461 for securing the intermediate tubular element 40 to the intermediate piston 46. The intermediate tubular end stop 47 is internally secured to the intermediate tubular element upper end 40 to limit the maximum deflection of the head tube group 5.

[0064] The head tube assembly 5 further includes a head piston 56 and an equipment mounting frame 57. The head piston 56 is adapted to slide on the inner wall of the intermediate tubular element 40 and is provided with a head piston step 560 and a head piston lift 561. The head piston step is used to abut the lower end of the head tubular element 50' and to abut the intermediate tubular end stop 67. The head piston lift is used to secure the head tubular element 50 to the head piston 56. The equipment mounting frame 57 is secured to the upper end 50" of the head tubular element for supporting and moving military equipment, communication equipment, lighting equipment, and / or surveillance equipment.

[0065] According to an embodiment, each locking ring 31 , 61 , 41 comprises at least one anti-rotation tab 13 slidingly and axially engaged in a guide 23 made in the outer wall of the consecutive tubular element 60 , 40 , 50 respectively.

[0066] In an embodiment, each locking ring 31, 61, 41 comprises at least one annular band 14 made of a polymeric material and suitable for facilitating the sliding movement of the locking ring 31, 61, 41 on the outer wall of the successive tubular element 60, 40, 50. In other words, such annular band 14 is suitable for facilitating the sliding of the outer wall of the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 on the base locking ring 31 and / or facilitating the sliding of the outer wall of the intermediate tubular element 40 on the base locking ring 31 or the auxiliary intermediate locking ring 61 and / or facilitating the sliding of the outer wall of the end tubular element 50 on the intermediate locking ring 41.

[0067] According to a preferred embodiment, the extension operation of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 includes the following steps:

[0068] - injection of compressed air by means of a device for injecting and exhausting air;

[0069] - placing the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 in a pre-blocking configuration in which the first guide surface 10 engages in a specific first counter-guide surface 20 ;

[0070] - Extend the head tube group 5;

[0071] - at the maximum extension of the head tube group 5, the vertical latch 33 is disengaged from the horizontal intermediate latch 42, so that the horizontal intermediate latch 42 moves into the blocking position in which the head tubular element 50 is engaged and axially blocked to the intermediate tubular element 40 and the horizontal intermediate latch 42 engages in a horizontal intermediate latch seat 54 obtained in the head tubular element 50;

[0072] - Extend the intermediate tube group 4;

[0073] - translating the actuator 35 to an advanced position at the maximum extension of the intermediate tube group 4, in which the horizontal latch 32 engages in a horizontal latch seat 44 made in the intermediate tubular element 40 and blocks the axial extension of the intermediate tubular element 40 relative to the base tubular element 30.

[0074] According to the embodiment, the method for extending the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 further comprises the following steps:

[0075] - disengaging the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63 from the horizontal intermediate latch 42 at the maximum extension of the head tube group 5, so that the horizontal intermediate latch 42 moves in translation into the blocking position in which the head tubular element 50 is engaged and axially blocked to the intermediate tubular element 40 and the horizontal intermediate latch 42 engages in the horizontal intermediate latch seat 54 made in the head tubular element 50;

[0076] - Extend the intermediate tube group 4;

[0077] - disengaging the vertical latch 33 from the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 at the maximum extension of the intermediate tube group 4, so that the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 moves into the auxiliary blocking position in which the intermediate tubular element 40 is engaged and axially blocked to the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 engages in the horizontal latch seat 44 made in the intermediate tubular element 40;

[0078] - Extend the auxiliary intermediate tube group 6;

[0079] The actuator 35 is translated into an advanced position in which the horizontal latch 32 engages in a latch seat 64 made in the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and blocks the axial extension of the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 relative to the base tubular element 30 .

[0080] In the embodiment, the extension operation of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 includes the following steps:

[0081] - injection of compressed air by means of a device for injecting and exhausting air;

[0082] - Extend the head tube group 5;

[0083] - disengaging the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63 from the horizontal intermediate latch 42 at the maximum extension of the head tube group 5, so that the horizontal intermediate latch 42 moves in translation into the blocking position in which the head tubular element 50 is engaged and axially blocked to the intermediate tubular element 40 and the horizontal intermediate latch 42 engages in the horizontal intermediate latch seat 54 made in the head tubular element 50;

[0084] - Extend the intermediate tube group 4;

[0085] - disengaging the vertical latch 33 from the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 at the maximum extension of the intermediate tube group 4, so that the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 moves into the auxiliary blocking position in which the intermediate tubular element 40 is engaged and axially blocked to the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 engages in the horizontal latch seat 44 made in the intermediate tubular element 40;

[0086] - Extend the auxiliary intermediate tube group 6;

[0087] - translating the actuator 35 into the advanced position in which the horizontal latch 32 integral with the rod 350 engages a latch seat 64 obtained in the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and blocks the axial extension of the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 relative to the base tubular element 30 .

[0088] According to a preferred embodiment, the retraction operation of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 includes the following steps:

[0089] - discharge of compressed air into the environment by means of a device for injecting and discharging air;

[0090] - translating the actuator 35 into the retracted position so as to disengage the horizontal latch 32 from the horizontal latch seat 44 made in the intermediate tubular element 40 and unblock the axial sliding movement of the intermediate tubular element 40;

[0091] - retract the intermediate tube group 4;

[0092] - bringing the first guide surface 10 of the vertical latch 33 into engagement with the corresponding first counter-guide surface 20 of the horizontal intermediate latch 42 so as to translate the horizontal intermediate latch 42 into an unblocked position in which the head tubular element 50 is disengaged from the intermediate tubular element 40 and the horizontal intermediate latch 42 is disengaged from the horizontal intermediate latch seat 54 made in the head tubular element 50;

[0093] - retract the head tube group 5 to place the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 in the pre-blocking configuration;

[0094] -Retract the column assembly into a compact configuration.

[0095] According to the embodiment, the retraction operation of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 further includes the following steps:

[0096] - translating the actuator 35 into the retracted position so as to disengage the horizontal latch 32 from the latch seat 64 made in the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and unblock the axial sliding movement of the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 ;

[0097] - retract the auxiliary intermediate tube group 6;

[0098] - bringing the first guide surface 10 of the vertical latch 33 into engagement with the corresponding first counter-guide surface 20 of the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 so as to translate the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 into the auxiliary unblocking position in which the intermediate tubular element 40 is disengaged from the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 is disengaged from the horizontal latch seat 44 made in the intermediate tubular element 40;

[0099] - retract the intermediate tube group 4;

[0100] - Engaging the first guide surface 10 of the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63 with the corresponding first counter guide surface 20 of the horizontal intermediate latch 42 so that the horizontal intermediate latch 42 is translated into an unblocked position, in which the head tubular element 50 is disengaged from the intermediate tubular element 40 and the horizontal intermediate latch 42 is disengaged from the horizontal intermediate latch seat 54 made in the head tubular element 50.

[0101] According to the embodiment, the retraction operation of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly 1 includes the following steps:

[0102] - discharge of compressed air into the environment by means of a device for injecting and discharging air;

[0103] - translating the actuator 35 into the retracted position so as to disengage the horizontal latch 32 from the latch seat 64 made in the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and unblock the axial sliding movement of the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 ;

[0104] - retract the auxiliary intermediate tube group 6;

[0105] - bringing the vertical latch 33 into engagement with the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 so as to translate the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 into the auxiliary unblocking position in which the intermediate tubular element 40 is disengaged from the auxiliary intermediate tubular element 60 and the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch 62 is disengaged from the horizontal latch seat 44 made in the intermediate tubular element 40;

[0106] - retract the intermediate tube group 4;

[0107] - bringing the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch 63 into engagement with the horizontal intermediate latch 42 so as to translate the horizontal intermediate latch 42 into an unblocked position in which the head tubular element 50 is disengaged from the intermediate tubular element 40 and the horizontal intermediate latch 42 is disengaged from the horizontal intermediate latch seat 54 obtained in the head tubular element 50;

[0108] - Retract the head tube group 5.

[0109] Innovatively, a pneumatic telescopic column assembly achieves its purpose.

[0110] Advantageously, the pneumatic telescopic column assembly is safe because it solves the "spring-back" problem.

[0111] According to an advantageous aspect, the pneumatic telescopic column assembly always extends and closes in the same manner.

[0112] In a further advantageous aspect, the pneumatic telescoping column assembly is fully automatic and does not require an operator to be on site.

[0113] Advantageously, the pneumatic telescopic column assembly allows for easy maintenance operations; in fact, the latch insert, which is coupled to the latch frame by form and / or force, can be easily replaced. This ease of replacement is advantageous because the latch insert is the component most susceptible to wear due to its sliding movement and engagement with the vertical latch and / or the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch.

[0114] A person skilled in the art may make changes and adjustments to the embodiments of the pneumatic telescopic column assembly, as well as the extension method and the retraction method according to the invention, or may replace elements with other elements that are functionally equivalent to meet the occasional needs, without departing from the scope of protection of the appended claims. All features belonging to one possible embodiment can be implemented independently of the other described embodiments.

Claims

1. A pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) for supporting and moving military equipment, communication equipment, lighting equipment and / or surveillance equipment, said pneumatic telescopic column assembly extending along an axis (VV) and comprising: A) a plurality of tube sets (2) telescopically configurable along said axis (VV) between a compact configuration and an extended configuration, said tube sets comprising: i) a base tube assembly (3), the base tube assembly comprising: 1) a base tubular element (30) extending between a base tubular element lower end (30') and a base tubular element upper end (30"), m) a base locking ring (31) fixed to the upper end portion (30") of the base tubular element, wherein the base locking ring (31) comprises at least one horizontal latch (32), at least one actuator (35) and at least one vertical latch (33), the actuator comprising a rod (350) orthogonal to the axis (VV) and integrally connected to the at least one horizontal latch (32), wherein the horizontal latch (32) and the vertical latch (33) are angularly spaced apart; ii) an intermediate pipe group (4), said intermediate pipe group comprising: l) an intermediate tubular element (40) extending between an intermediate tubular element lower end (40') and an intermediate tubular element upper end (40"); m) an intermediate locking ring (41) fixed to the upper end portion (40") of the intermediate tubular element, wherein the intermediate locking ring (41) comprises at least one horizontal intermediate latch (42) axially aligned with the vertical latch and in which the vertical latch (33) is engageable; iii) a head tube set (5), said head tube set comprising a head tubular element (50) extending between a head tubular element lower end (50') and a head tubular element upper end (50"), and B) a device for injecting and exhausting air, said device being suitable for moving said plurality of tube groups (2), wherein, when moving between the compact configuration and the extended configuration: - the horizontal intermediate latch (42) moves horizontally between an unlocked position, in which the head tubular element (50) is disengaged from the intermediate tubular element (40) and the vertical latch (33) is engaged in the horizontal intermediate latch (42), and a locked position, in which the intermediate tubular element (40) is engaged in the head tubular element (50) and the horizontal intermediate latch (42) is engaged in a horizontal intermediate latch seat (54) made in the head tubular element (50); and - the actuator (35) operates between a retracted position, in which the intermediate tubular element (40) slides along the axis (VV), and an advanced position, in which the horizontal latch (32) integral with the rod (350) engages in a horizontal latch seat (44) obtained in the intermediate tubular element (40) and blocks the extension of the intermediate tubular element (40) relative to the base tubular element (30), Furthermore, the pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) further comprises at least one auxiliary intermediate tube group (6), the auxiliary intermediate tube group being arranged between the base tube group (3) and the intermediate tube group (4), the auxiliary intermediate tube group comprising: l) an auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) extending between an auxiliary intermediate tubular element lower end (60') and an auxiliary intermediate tubular element upper end (60"); m) an auxiliary intermediate locking ring (61) fixed to the auxiliary intermediate tubular element upper end portion (60"), wherein the auxiliary intermediate locking ring (61) comprises at least one auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) and at least one auxiliary vertical intermediate latch (63), the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch being axially aligned with the vertical latch (33) and the vertical latch (33) being engageable in the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch, the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch being axially aligned with the horizontal intermediate latch (42) and being engageable in the horizontal intermediate latch (42), the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) being angularly spaced from the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch (63); wherein, when moving between the compact configuration and the extended configuration: - the horizontal intermediate latch (42) moves horizontally between an unlocked position, in which the head tubular element (50) is disengaged from the intermediate tubular element (40) and the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch (63) is engaged in the horizontal intermediate latch (42), and a locked position, in which the intermediate tubular element (40) is engaged in the head tubular element (50) and the horizontal intermediate latch (42) is engaged in the horizontal intermediate latch seat (54) made in the head tubular element (50), - the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) moves horizontally between an auxiliary unlocking position, in which the intermediate tubular element (40) is disengaged from the auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) and the vertical latch (33) is engaged in the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62), and an auxiliary locking position, in which the intermediate tubular element (40) is engaged to the auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) and the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) is engaged in the horizontal latch seat (44) made in the intermediate tubular element (40); and - the actuator (35) is actuated between a retracted position, in which the auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) slides along the axis (VV), and an advanced position, in which the horizontal latch (32) integral with the rod (350) engages a latch seat (64) obtained in the auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) and blocks the extension of the auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) relative to the base tubular element (30), It is characterized by: The vertical latch (33) and the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch (63) respectively comprise a first guide surface (10) and a second guide surface (12) capable of engaging with a first counter guide surface (20) and a second counter guide surface (22), respectively, obtained on the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) and the horizontal intermediate latch (42), The first guide surface (10) and the first reverse guide surface (20) are located on a pair of first parallel planes (P1', P1"), the pair of first parallel planes being different from a pair of second parallel planes (P2', P2"), the second guide surface (12) and the second reverse guide surface (22) being located on the pair of second parallel planes, wherein a mutual sliding movement between the first guide surface (10) and the specific first counter-guide surface (20) moves the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) into the auxiliary locking position and / or moves the horizontal intermediate latch (42) into the locking position, And wherein the mutual sliding movement between the second guide surface (12) and the specific second counter guide surface (22) moves the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) into the auxiliary unlocking position and / or moves the horizontal intermediate latch (42) into the unlocking position.

2. The pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to claim 1, comprising at least two auxiliary intermediate tube groups (6) arranged successively, so that the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch (63) of the auxiliary intermediate locking ring (61) successive to the base tube group (3) is vertically aligned with the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) of the successive auxiliary intermediate locking ring (61) and can be engaged with the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch.

3. The pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein: The mutual static engagement between said first guide surface (10) and the corresponding first counter-guide surface (20) defines a pre-blocking configuration between two consecutive tube groups, wherein the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) and / or the horizontal intermediate latch (42) are free to slide on the outer wall of the tubular element of the next tube group when moving between the compact configuration and the extended configuration, and wherein axial movement of a leading tubular element is blocked when moving between the extended configuration and the compact configuration.

4. The pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 3, wherein: The auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) and the horizontal intermediate latch (42) each include: - a latch frame (15) in which a frame through-hole (16) is made; a latching insert (17) which is receptive in the frame through-hole (16) by shape and / or force coupling, an insertion through-hole (18) also being made in the latching insert (17), the insertion through-hole being delimited by four mutually orthogonal walls (19a, 19b, 19c, 19d), wherein two walls (19a, 19c) facing each other are shaped so as to form the first counter-guide surface (20) and the second counter-guide surface (22), The insertion through hole (18) extends along an insertion hole axis (II), which is substantially parallel to the axis (VV), and the vertical latch (33) and / or the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch (63) are engageable in the insertion through hole.

5. The pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) and the horizontal intermediate latch (42) extend between the tubular element engagement end (24a) and the ring engagement end (24b), the tubular element engagement end slides on the outer wall of the tubular element (60; 40; 50) and is engageable in the latch seat (64), or in the horizontal latch seat (44), or in the horizontal intermediate latch seat (54), and the ring engagement end is engageable through the locking ring (61; 41) by means of a pre-compressed elastic element (25), the pre-compressed elastic element is a coil spring, and the pre-compressed elastic element promotes the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) to translate to the auxiliary locking position, or promotes the horizontal intermediate latch (42) to translate to the locking position.

6. The pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The actuator (35) is a single-acting actuator in which the rod (350) is extended in the advanced position.

7. The pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Each tube group (3; 4; 5; 6) also includes a piston (36; 46; 56; 66), and the piston (36; 46; 56; 66) is provided with: a piston step (360; 460; 560; 660) for abutting the lower end (30'; 40'; 50'; 60') of the tubular element (30; 40; 50; 60), and - a piston lift (361; 461; 561; 661) for securing the tubular element (30; 40; 50; 60) to the piston (36; 46; 56; 66).

8. The pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The tube group (3; 4; 6) also comprises an end stop (37; 47; 67) fixed internally to the upper end (30"; 40"; 60") of the tubular element (30; 40; 60) so as to define the maximum excursion of the next tube group.

9. The pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Each locking ring (31; 61; 41) comprises at least one anti-rotation tongue (13) which is slidingly and axially engaged in a guide (23) made in the outer wall of the next tubular element (60; 40; 50), respectively.

10. The pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: Each locking ring (31; 61; 41) comprises at least one annular band (14) made of polymeric material and suitable for facilitating the sliding movement of said locking ring (31; 61; 41) on the outer wall of the next said tubular element (60; 40; 50).

11. A method for extending a pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the method comprising the steps of: - injection of compressed air by means of a device for injecting and exhausting air; - placing the pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) in a pre-locking configuration in which the first guide surface (10) engages in a specific first counter-guide surface (20); - extending the head tube assembly (5); - disengaging the vertical latch (33) from the horizontal intermediate latch (42) at the maximum extension of the head tube group (5) so as to move the horizontal intermediate latch (42) into a locked position in which the head tubular element (50) is engaged and axially locked to the intermediate tubular element (40) and the horizontal intermediate latch (42) is engaged in the horizontal intermediate latch seat (54) made in the head tubular element (50); - extending the intermediate tube group (4); - At the maximum extension of the intermediate tube group (4), the actuator (35) is moved to the advanced position in which the horizontal latch (32) engages in the horizontal latch seat (44) made in the intermediate tubular element (40) and blocks the axial extension of the intermediate tubular element (40) relative to the base tubular element (30).

12. The method according to claim 11, further comprising the steps of: - disengaging the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch (63) from the horizontal intermediate latch (42) at the maximum extension of the head tube group (5) so as to move the horizontal intermediate latch (42) into the locking position in which the head tubular element (50) is engaged and axially locked to the intermediate tubular element (40) and the horizontal intermediate latch (42) is engaged in the horizontal intermediate latch seat (54) made in the head tubular element (50); - extending the intermediate tube group (4); - disengaging the vertical latch (33) from the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) at the maximum extension of the intermediate tube group (4), so that the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) moves to the auxiliary locking position in which the intermediate tubular element (40) is engaged and axially locked to the auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) and the auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) is engaged in the horizontal latch seat (44) made in the intermediate tubular element (40); - extending the auxiliary intermediate tube group (6); and - moving the actuator (35) to an advanced position in which the horizontal latch (32) engages in the latch seat (64) made in the auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) and blocks the axial extension of the auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) relative to the base tubular element (30).

13. A method for retracting a pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the method comprising the steps of: - discharge of compressed air into the environment by means of a device for injecting and discharging air; - moving the actuator (35) to the retracted position so as to disengage the horizontal latch (32) from the horizontal latch seat (44) made in the intermediate tubular element (40) and unblock the axial sliding movement of the intermediate tubular element (40); - retracting the intermediate tube group (4); and - bringing the first guide surface (10) of the vertical latch (33) into engagement with a specific first counter-guide surface (20) of the horizontal intermediate latch (42) so as to move the horizontal intermediate latch (42) into the unlocked position in which the head tubular element (50) is disengaged from the intermediate tubular element (40) and the horizontal intermediate latch (42) is disengaged from the horizontal intermediate latch seat (54) made in the head tubular element (50); - retracting the head tube set (5) so as to place the pneumatic telescopic column assembly (1) in a pre-locking configuration; and - retracting the column assembly to the compact configuration.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising the steps of: - moving the actuator (35) to the retracted position in order to disengage the horizontal latch (32) from the latch seat (64) made in the auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) and to unblock the axial sliding movement of the auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60); - retracting the auxiliary intermediate tube group (6); - bringing said first guide surface (10) of said vertical latch (33) into engagement with a specific first counter-guide surface (20) of said auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) so as to move said auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) into said auxiliary unlocking position in which said intermediate tubular element (40) is disengaged from said auxiliary intermediate tubular element (60) and said auxiliary horizontal intermediate latch (62) is disengaged from said horizontal latch seat (44) made in said intermediate tubular element (40); - retracting the intermediate tube group (4); and - engaging the first guide surface (10) of the auxiliary vertical intermediate latch (63) with a specific first counter-guide surface (20) of the horizontal intermediate latch (42) so as to move the horizontal intermediate latch (42) into an unlocked position in which the head tubular element (50) is disengaged from the intermediate tubular element (40) and the horizontal intermediate latch (42) is disengaged from the horizontal intermediate latch seat (54) made in the head tubular element (50).

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