Automatic crane with main power supply and various replaceable auxiliary power supplies

Abstract

The crane (1) comprises a hoisting system (5) for people or goods and a first self-sufficient power supply for making the crane function. A second location (8) allows the removable accommodation of a second self-sufficient power supply (15) which is chosen from among a plurality of different second power supplies which are not entirely constituted by a generator set and not entirely constituted by means for storing electrical energy. It allows, for example, the first self-sufficient power supply to be recharged, or to be powered together with the crane. The crane comprises a system for identifying the second self-sufficient power supply accommodated in the second location (8) from among the plurality of second power supplies. Onboard electronic means manage the electrical energy supplied by the second power supply to the crane as a function of the second power supply identified.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of electrically powered automatic cranes for lifting people or goods. More specifically, this invention relates to a crane equipped with a power source (e.g., a rechargeable battery pack) and at least one motor for moving the lifting vehicle on the ground and operating the system for lifting people or goods.

[0002] In particular, it involves mobile aerial work platforms (MEWP), also known as aerial work platforms (AWP). It also involves telescopic forklifts. Background Technology

[0003] The current favorable trend is to design electrically powered automated cranes for lifting people or goods, which can reduce environmental and noise pollution compared to internal combustion engine-driven cranes, even when used outdoors.

[0004] One drawback of electrically driven automated cranes is their lack of autonomy in operation, especially when used outdoors, taking into account the size of the rechargeable batteries that may be installed on the crane, variable environmental conditions, especially temperature, which can be detrimental to the batteries, and the lack of sufficient power grid to charge the batteries.

[0005] To address this shortcoming, the applicant proposed an improved design in WO 2020 / 157094 A2: an electrically powered automated aerial work platform for outdoor use. It is equipped with a rechargeable battery to charge the motors that lift the work platform and move it on the ground, and also includes one or more chargers to charge the battery via the power grid. It further includes a location for detachably housing a generator set, which charges the battery via one or more chargers on the aerial work platform.

[0006] While using detachable generator sets can improve the autonomy of aerial work platforms, its disadvantages include environmental and noise pollution. This also makes it difficult to use indoors. Summary of the Invention

[0007] One object of the present invention is to further improve existing electric automatic cranes so that they can benefit from additional power sources under different usage conditions.

[0008] Therefore, according to a first aspect, the present invention provides a crane for personnel or goods, comprising a lifting system for personnel or goods, a power supply circuit including at least one motor for actuating the lifting system and moving the crane on the ground, and at least one first self-contained power source housed in a first position of the crane, the crane being designed to be powered solely by the first self-contained power source. The first self-contained power source is preferably a first rechargeable battery pack, but it can also be other types of self-contained power sources. The crane also includes a second position separate from the first position for removably housing the second self-contained power source separate from the first power source, the second self-contained power source being selectable from a plurality of different second self-contained power sources, which are not entirely composed of generator sets and not entirely composed of energy storage devices. The crane includes an electrical connection system adapted to connect any one of the plurality of second self-contained power sources housed in the second position to the electrical connection system, such that the second self-contained power source supplies power to the power supply circuit. The crane also includes an identification system for identifying which of the plurality of second self-contained power sources are housed in the second position. Finally, the crane includes onboard electronics that manage the electrical energy supplied by the second self-sufficient power source to the power circuit based on the second self-sufficient power source identified by the identification system.

[0009] Understandably, these secondary self-sufficient power sources are self-sufficient because each can independently provide power to the crane. Everything required for their operation is included within the power source itself, thus enabling self-sufficiency for the crane. Since the crane can use different secondary self-sufficient power sources, the most suitable one can be selected based on the situation, such as whether it is outdoors or indoors, or based on the primary local energy source available to power the corresponding secondary self-sufficient power source, such as the power grid, different types of fuel, solar energy, etc. This makes the crane more versatile and adaptable.

[0010] Advantageously, at least one of the second self-sufficient power sources is a device for storing electrical energy, which can be charged by a separate power source, and at least one of the other second self-sufficient power sources is a device that cannot store electrical energy in a rechargeable manner from a separate power source, but which supplies power by converting non-electrical energy into electrical energy. Multiple second self-sufficient power sources can include multiple different power sources derived from one and / or the other of these two types of power sources, which further enhances the versatility and adaptability of the crane. Generally, it is highly advantageous for the lifting device to accommodate second self-sufficient power sources of different natures.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the crane of the present invention includes one or more of the following features.

[0012] The crane also includes an electrical adaptation system for adjusting the electrical characteristics of the electrical energy supplied to the power circuit through at least one of the multiple self-contained power sources when at least one of the multiple self-contained power sources is connected to the electrical connection system.

[0013] The design of airborne electronic devices can be based on the self-sufficient power source identified by the identification system, enabling the electrical adaptation system to adjust or not adjust the electrical characteristics of the electrical energy supplied to the power circuit by the second self-sufficient power source.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the second self-contained power source can be selected from a plurality of different second self-contained power sources, at least one of which provides a DC voltage output, and at least one of the other second self-contained power sources provides an AC voltage output. This further enhances the versatility and adaptability of the crane.

[0015] More advantageously, the second self-sufficient power source can be selected from several different second self-sufficient power sources, at least one of which provides DC voltage output, at least one of the other second self-sufficient power sources provides only single-phase AC voltage output, and at least one of the other second self-sufficient power sources provides three-phase AC voltage output.

[0016] In these embodiments, the electrical adaptation system is designed to adapt the voltage output by the second self-sufficient power supply to the operating voltage of the lifting device's power supply circuit. Of course, the electrical adaptation system only adjusts the second self-sufficient power supply to a suitable level. This voltage adjustment involves both voltage characteristics and voltage level.

[0017] For example, in a preferred embodiment, the crane's power supply circuit is powered by a DC voltage, and the electrical adaptation system converts the AC voltage output from the relevant second self-sufficient power supply into a DC voltage suitable for the power supply circuit. In this preferred embodiment, the electrical adaptation system may also adjust the level of the DC voltage output from the relevant second self-sufficient power supply to a level suitable for the DC voltage of the power supply circuit. For this purpose, the electrical adaptation system includes at least one AC-to-DC converter and / or at least one DC-to-DC converter.

[0018] The electrical adaptation system is advantageously designed to be able to adjust multiple different levels of DC voltage or any voltage within a DC voltage range to adapt to the operating voltage of the crane's power supply circuit.

[0019] Similarly, the electrical adaptation system is advantageously designed to adjust multiple different levels of AC voltage or any voltage within an AC voltage range to adapt to the operating voltage of the crane's power supply circuit. This method can be used with single-phase AC voltage and / or three-phase AC voltage.

[0020] In this way, the crane can accommodate a second self-sufficient power source at the second position, and each power source outputs a different DC or AC voltage.

[0021] This further enhances the versatility and adaptability of the crane.

[0022] The identification system includes a data transmission device that, when the second self-contained power source is located at the second position, can establish a data transmission link with any one of the multiple second self-contained power sources. The airborne electronic devices are designed to cooperate with the data transmission device to acquire identification data from the second self-contained power sources.

[0023] The crane can be configured to use electrical energy provided by a second self-sufficient power source to power the load of a first self-sufficient power source. Onboard electronics can adjust the load curve of the first self-sufficient power source based on the second self-sufficient power source identified by the identification system. Alternatively or additionally, the crane can be configured to simultaneously power at least one motor using both the first and second self-sufficient power sources.

[0024] In particular, the crane is configured to allow the operator to choose between charging the first self-sufficient power source with electrical energy provided by the second self-sufficient power source and simultaneously powering at least one motor using both the first and second self-sufficient power sources.

[0025] In the foregoing embodiments, when the operator chooses to simultaneously utilize both the first and second self-sufficient power sources to power at least one motor, the crane can provide significantly more power to the second self-sufficient power source—for example, twice the power—compared to the case where the operator chooses to use the power provided by the second self-sufficient power source to charge the first self-sufficient power source.

[0026] At least one of the multiple second self-sufficient power sources includes a start-up function capable of supplying electrical energy and / or a stop function capable of terminating the power supply, and the onboard electronic devices can control the start-up and / or stop of the second self-sufficient power source.

[0027] The multiple second self-sufficient power sources include one or more of the following: generator sets; fuel cells; second rechargeable battery packs; and solar panels. More specifically, the multiple second self-sufficient power sources include one or more of the following: internal combustion engine generator sets; gas turbine generator sets; hydrogen fuel cells; second battery packs equipped with associated chargers for charging; second battery packs without associated chargers for charging; and solar panels.

[0028] Of particular advantage is that one of the multiple secondary self-sufficient power sources is a fuel cell, preferably a hydrogen fuel cell, because of its pollution-free nature. For the same reason, it is also particularly advantageous that one of the multiple secondary self-sufficient power sources is a solar panel.

[0029] The second position may be equipped with devices that work with any one of the second self-contained power sources to position and detachably hold the second self-contained power source in or on the second position. These devices are identical for each of the multiple second self-contained power sources. Furthermore, the crane is designed to position and hold the second self-contained power sources in or on the second position in a manner applicable to all second self-contained power sources.

[0030] The electrical connection system may include a power connector capable of connecting to any one of the second self-contained power sources. Therefore, the electrical connection system may include a single power connector that is compatible with all second self-contained power sources, even if they provide different voltages, such as DC voltage or single-phase and / or three-phase AC voltage.

[0031] Notably, the crane may be a telescopic forklift or an aerial work platform.

[0032] According to a second aspect, the present invention provides a power supply group consisting of multiple different self-sufficient power sources, which are not entirely composed of generator sets and not entirely composed of devices for storing electrical energy. Each self-sufficient power source is configured to be accommodated at a second position of the same crane according to the first aspect of the invention, and is connected to the crane's electrical connection system as a second self-sufficient power source.

[0033] According to a preferred embodiment, the power supply group consisting of multiple different self-contained power sources includes at least one self-contained power source for outputting DC voltage, and at least one other self-contained power source for outputting AC voltage.

[0034] More advantageously, the power supply group consisting of multiple different self-sufficient power sources includes at least one self-sufficient power source for outputting DC voltage, at least one other self-sufficient power source specifically for outputting single-phase AC voltage, and at least one other self-sufficient power source for outputting three-phase AC voltage.

[0035] According to another preferred embodiment, the power supply group consisting of multiple different self-sufficient power sources includes multiple self-sufficient power sources, each power source outputting a different DC voltage.

[0036] According to another preferred embodiment, the power supply group consisting of multiple different self-sufficient power sources includes multiple self-sufficient power sources, each specifically designed to output different single-phase AC voltages.

[0037] According to another preferred embodiment, the power supply group consisting of multiple different self-contained power sources includes multiple self-contained power sources for outputting different three-phase AC voltages.

[0038] According to other preferred embodiments, a power supply group consisting of multiple different self-contained power sources includes one or more of the following features.

[0039] Each self-contained power source may include the same device for placing it in position and detachably holding it in place in a second position on the crane.

[0040] Each power supply may include the same housing to house its components.

[0041] A power supply group consisting of multiple different self-contained power sources may include one or more of the following self-contained power sources: a generator set; a fuel cell; a second rechargeable battery pack; and solar panels. More preferably, the battery pack may include one or more of the following self-contained power sources: an internal combustion engine generator set; a gas turbine generator set; a hydrogen fuel cell; a second battery pack equipped with an associated charger for charging; a second battery pack without an associated charger for charging; and solar panels.

[0042] Advantageously, the power supply group consisting of multiple different self-sufficient power sources includes at least one fuel cell stack (preferably hydrogen fuel) and / or solar panels.

[0043] According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a component comprising a crane as described in the first aspect of the present invention and a power supply group consisting of a plurality of self-contained power supplies as described in the second aspect of the present invention, each self-contained power supply serving as a second self-contained power supply for the crane.

[0044] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method for operating a crane as described in the first aspect of the present invention, the method comprising providing a power supply group consisting of a plurality of different self-sufficient power supplies as described in the second aspect of the present invention, so as to selectively use any one of them as the second self-sufficient power supply for use with the crane. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following description of two preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of example and the accompanying drawings.

[0046] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of a telescopic forklift according to an embodiment of the present invention, the forklift being equipped with a second self-contained power supply, which is detachably mounted at a position on the telescopic forklift provided for this purpose.

[0047] Figure 2The telescopic forklift shown in the image above is not equipped with a second self-sufficient power source.

[0048] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 and Figure 2 The circuit block diagram of the telescopic forklift shown is shown.

[0049] Figure 4 The invention demonstrates a scissor lift aerial work platform according to an embodiment of the present invention, with the scissor crane in an extended state.

[0050] Figure 5 The other side of the scissor lift is shown, with the scissor crane in a retracted position. This side provides a location where a second self-contained power source is detachably housed.

[0051] Figure 6 Showing Figure 4 and Figure 5 The scissor lift aerial work platform in the middle accommodates a second self-sufficient power source at a location provided for this purpose. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A telescopic forklift 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The telescopic forklift 1 includes a chassis 2, which is supported by wheels 3 for movement on the ground. It includes a cab 4 for operator use and a lifting system 5. The lifting system 5 includes a telescopic boom comprising at least two sections that can slide relative to each other. A lower section 6 is pivotally mounted to the chassis 2 about a horizontal axis, while an upper section 7 has a free end for mounting components or supports for accommodating goods and / or people. Figure 1 and Figure 2 (not shown in the image), such as forks or work platforms.

[0053] The telescopic forklift 1 is electric. It includes a motor for moving on the ground and actuating the lifting system 6. This motor is powered by a rechargeable battery pack. The battery pack, like the motor, is mounted in a first dedicated location below the cab 4: therefore, in Figure 1 and Figure 2 Not shown in the image. See below. Figure 3 In this diagram, the battery pack is labeled 20. It is the primary power source for powering the telescopic forklift 1. Alternatively, this primary power source could be another self-sufficient power source, such as a hydrogen fuel cell.

[0054] The telescopic forklift 1 includes a second position 8 for removably accommodating a second self-contained power supply 15. The second position 8 is separate from the first position accommodating the battery pack 20, and the second self-contained power supply 15 is separate from the battery pack 20. In this embodiment, the second position 8 is located on the side of the chassis 2 opposite the cab 4, and a telescopic boom lifting system 5 is located between the cab 4 and the second position 8. In this embodiment, the second position 8 is defined by a horizontal support plate 9 and a vertical wall 10.

[0055] As described below, the second self-sufficient power source 15 can be selected from a plurality of different self-sufficient power sources, each of which can be accommodated at the second location 8. In particular, it can include, but is not limited to, the following power sources: generator sets, fuel cells, preferably hydrogen fuel cells, second rechargeable battery packs, and solar panels.

[0056] This list is not restrictive, and other self-sufficient power sources can also be selected as secondary self-sufficient power sources.

[0057] As described in these embodiments, these second self-sufficient power sources may be devices that store electrical energy, or devices that cannot store electrical energy but can convert non-electrical primary energy sources into electrical energy.

[0058] More preferably, the generator set is equipped with an internal combustion engine, preferably a diesel engine. The generator set can also be a gas turbine generator set. The generator set can be of the type that outputs single-phase AC voltage or three-phase AC voltage.

[0059] Understandably, crane 1 can accommodate different types of generator sets, which differ in terms of motorization and / or the electrical characteristics of the output electrical energy. Typically, crane 1 can accommodate different models to accommodate specific types of secondary self-sufficient power sources, such as different types of fuel cells or different battery packs.

[0060] The second position 8 and the second self-contained power source 15 are designed to ensure that any second self-contained power source can be positioned and held in place in a detachable manner in or at the second position 8. Preferably, all second self-contained power sources 15 are equipped with the same device and are positioned and held in place at the second position 8 by cooperating with corresponding devices at the second position 8.

[0061] Unlike battery pack 20, which does not require frequent removal from the telescopic forklift and is only removed for maintenance or replacement at the end of its service life, the device for positioning and removably holding the second self-contained power source 15 in position 8 is preferably designed to allow for quick and easy installation and removal of the second self-contained power source 15 at position 8. For example, the devices described in Figures 9 to 15 of patent WO 2020 / 157094 A2 can be used, relating to the battery pack and the aerial work platform for removably accommodating the battery pack. The description in patent WO 2020 / 157094 A2 with reference to Figures 9 to 15 is incorporated herein by reference. In particular, all the second self-contained power sources have the same housing for accommodating their components.

[0062] Preferably, the second self-contained power source also has forklift fork access. Considering that these second self-contained power sources 15 may be heavy, this allows for easier placement in or on the second position 8, and also facilitates removal by forklift. In this case, it is preferable that the second self-contained power source 15 is equipped with a locking system that automatically locks it in the second position 8 and is actuated by at least one fork tooth to release the lock. An example of such a locking system is disclosed in the applicant's patent application FR2008140.

[0063] like Figure 3 The circuit block diagram of the telescopic forklift 1 shown is divided into a power supply circuit 30 and a control circuit 25. The power supply circuit 30 includes at least one motor for operating the lifting system 5 and allowing the telescopic forklift 1 to move on the ground. In this embodiment, a first motor 21 is dedicated to moving the telescopic forklift 1 on the ground, and a second motor 23 is dedicated to operating the lifting system 5. More specifically, motor 23 drives a hydraulic pump 25 to supply pressurized fluid to the hydraulic circuit, causing a hydraulic actuator to drive the lifting system 5. While other types of motors are also conceivable, motors 21 and 23 are preferably AC motors, preferably three-phase AC motors, for the sake of high efficiency. It is understood that the number of motors can vary; for example, one could be dedicated to the front axle and another to the rear axle, or each wheel 3 could be driven by its own motor.

[0064] Motors 21 and 23 are powered by a rechargeable battery pack 20 or other self-sufficient main power source installed below the cab 4. Figure 1 and Figure 2Not shown in the figure, but indicated by reference numeral 20 in the figure below. For this purpose, the power supply circuit 30 includes two regulators 22 and 24 to convert the direct current from the battery pack 20 into alternating current suitable for the motors 21 and 23, respectively, for controlling these motors. The two regulators 22 and 24 are controlled by the onboard electronics 40 of the control circuit 25 according to control commands input by the operator on a control console (not shown) mounted in the cockpit 4.

[0065] The power supply circuit 30 also includes a converter 31 that converts AC voltage to DC voltage, which acts as a charger to charge the battery pack 20 via mains power. Depending on the circumstances, it is provided to accommodate single-phase and / or three-phase AC voltage, particularly within the common voltage range of the country where the telescopic forklift 1 is used.

[0066] The power supply circuit 30 includes an electrical connection system for connecting any second self-contained power source 15. In this case, it includes a single power connector 35. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Not shown in the diagram. When the second self-contained power source 15 is accommodated in the second position 8, the aforementioned connector is designed to connect to the corresponding connector 36 of the second self-contained power source 15. Each second self-contained power source has a connector 36 compatible with connector 35. However, not all individual connecting elements of connector 35 can be used for all second self-contained power sources 15, as they may have different numbers of power lines, particularly depending on whether they are transmitting DC, single-phase AC, or three-phase AC.

[0067] In this embodiment, the telescopic forklift 1 can accommodate and manage any one of at least five different second self-sufficient power sources:

[0068] Generator unit 15a includes an internal combustion engine and provides single-phase AC voltage.

[0069] Hydrogen fuel cell 15b provides DC voltage.

[0070] The rechargeable battery pack 15c is separate from the battery pack 20.

[0071] Component 15d, consisting of a rechargeable battery pack separate from battery pack 20 and an associated charger that charges it via AC power, is housed in the same casing. Battery pack 15c, on the other hand, constitutes a second self-sufficient power source without an associated charger, and is therefore charged via its own charger.

[0072] Solar panel module 15e.

[0073] Therefore, the most suitable secondary self-sufficient power source can be selected based on the situation, such as whether the telescopic forklift is used indoors or outdoors, or based on the available local energy resources. This makes the telescopic forklift 1 more versatile and adaptable.

[0074] It is understandable that the power supply group consisting of the second self-sufficient power source 15 is variable and includes other self-sufficient power sources, such as gas turbine generator sets or generator sets that provide three-phase voltage.

[0075] Onboard electronics 40 manages the second self-sufficient power supply 15 in the second position 8 in either a so-called first charging mode or a so-called second boost mode. In the so-called charging mode, the second self-sufficient power supply is used to charge the battery pack 20, providing only a small amount of power to the motors 21 and 23. Specifically, the onboard electronics can adjust the load curve of the battery pack 20 based on the second self-sufficient power supply housed in the second position 8, for example, by controlling the corresponding converter 31. In the so-called boost mode, the motors 21 and 23 can be powered simultaneously by the battery pack 20 and the second self-sufficient power supply 15, thus enabling the operation of the accumulated power provided by the battery pack 20 and the second self-sufficient power supply 15. In the so-called boost mode, the power provided by the second self-sufficient power supply 15 is higher than that in the so-called charging mode, for example, at least twice as much. The operator can select the so-called charging mode or the so-called boost mode on the control panel. Alternatively, for example, the onboard electronics 40 can automatically apply one or another mode based on the power required by the motors 21 and 23. In another variation, the telescopic forklift 1 can be designed to be used only in a so-called charging mode or only in a so-called boost mode.

[0076] Understandably, the telescopic forklift 1 is designed to operate via the battery pack 20 even in the absence of a second self-contained power source at position 8. Therefore, the battery pack 20 is the primary power source for the telescopic forklift 1, while the second self-contained power source 15 is an optional auxiliary power source.

[0077] Given the diversity of second self-sufficient power sources, a system can be provided to adjust the electrical characteristics of the electrical energy they provide.

[0078] In this embodiment, each of the second self-contained power sources 15b, 15c, 15d, and 15e provides a DC voltage equivalent to the voltage level of the battery pack 20. No voltage regulation is required for the latter.

[0079] Conversely, generator set 15a provides single-phase AC voltage or three-phase voltage. This is then converted to DC voltage. This conversion can be achieved by converter 31. Alternatively, a separate converter can also be provided.

[0080] The onboard electronics 40 can be designed to adjust or not adjust the electrical energy provided by the second self-sufficient power supply 15 in such a way that, for example, the connector 35 is selectively connected to the converter 31 or bypassed to the power supply circuit 30 via the control switch 32.

[0081] Alternatively, if it is determined that the DC voltage provided by the second self-sufficient power source 15 is significantly different from that of the battery pack 20, the telescopic forklift 1 may include a DC-DC converter to adjust the voltage of the second self-sufficient power source to suit the voltages of the power circuit 30 and the battery pack 20.

[0082] Furthermore, some of the second self-sufficient power sources 15 can be controlled via the onboard electronics 40 of the telescopic forklift 1. In our embodiment, the generator set 15a includes start and stop functions.

[0083] For this purpose, the onboard electronics 40 establishes a control connection with the generator set 15a or other associated second self-sufficient power source installed in the second position 8. In our embodiment, a wired connection with connector 41 is provided, which is separate from the power connector 35. Alternatively, the two connectors 35 and 41 are combined into one. In another variation, a wireless communication connection may be involved.

[0084] In this way, the airborne electronic device 40 works in conjunction with the integrated electronic device on the generator set 15a to control the start and stop of the generator set 15a.

[0085] As described above, the onboard electronics 40 can specifically manage the second self-contained power sources 15, for example, by applying a specific load curve to the battery pack 20, adjusting the characteristics of the electrical energy they provide, or controlling specific functions of some of them, such as starting and stopping the generator set 15a, or even other functions. Therefore, an identification system is provided so that the onboard electronics 40 can identify which second self-contained power source 15 is housed in the second position 8 and connected to the connector 35. The onboard electronics 40 stores management rules for each second self-contained power source 15.

[0086] In a preferred embodiment, the identification system uses a control connection connected to connector 41, preferably in the form of a data transmission link, such as a CAN bus. Each of the second self-contained power sources 15a to 15e includes integrated electronics for providing identification data of the second self-contained power source to the onboard electronics 40. For example, this identification data may include the brand, model, and serial number of the second self-contained power source 15. The data transmission link can also send instructions from the onboard electronics 40 to the integrated electronics of the second self-contained power source 15, such as instructions to start and stop generator set 15a.

[0087] The data transmission link can also be used to send any information, such as a fault alarm, from the integrated electronics of the second self-sufficient power supply 15 to the onboard electronics 40.

[0088] Clearly, if the second self-sufficient power supply 15 involved does not have controllable functions, such as the second power supplies 15c, 15d and 15e, then the data transmission link is not used to send commands from the airborne electronics 40.

[0089] Alternatively, the identification system may be separate from the control connection. This could be achieved, for example, by equipping each second self-contained power source with a transponder. Identification data stored in the transponders is read by a suitable reader mounted at the second position 8 and connected to the onboard electronics 40. In another embodiment, the identification system may be optical or inductive, with a sensor located at the second position 8 to cooperate with an coded chip arranged on the housing of the second self-contained power source 15 for identification.

[0090] It is understood that the present invention is also applicable to other automated cranes used for people or goods, such as aerial work platforms. Figures 4 to 6 A scissor lift 101 according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. The scissor lift 101 includes a chassis 102 and a work platform 150 supported by a scissor lifting mechanism 105 mounted on the chassis 102. The work platform 150 typically includes a base plate and guardrails, designed to accommodate onboard personnel and related equipment. The scissor lifting mechanism 105 is well known. It includes intermediate scissor-hinged links, these scissor mechanisms being mounted one after another via pivotally mounted ends to allow folding and extension in the height direction. One or more hydraulic jacks 151 cause the scissor lifting mechanism 105 to extend or fold to raise the work platform 150 to the required working height and to lower it onto the chassis 102.

[0091] The chassis 102 is equipped with wheels 3, two front wheels and two rear wheels, which allow the chassis 102 to be placed on the ground and the aerial work platform 101 to move on the ground. As shown in the figure, the front side of the aerial work platform 101 is marked as AV, the rear side as AR, the left side as G, and the right side as D.

[0092] The power supply circuit of the aerial work platform 101 and Figure 3 The power circuit of the telescopic forklift 1 shown is similar. The battery pack 20 and converter 31 can be arranged on the first side of the chassis 102 relative to the scissor lift mechanism 105, i.e., the left side G in the example. Preferably, they are placed... Figure 4 Inside the outer cover 152 shown.

[0093] The motor 23 and hydraulic pump 25 can be mounted on the opposite side of the chassis 102 relative to the scissor lift mechanism 105, i.e., the right side D in the example. Preferably, they are placed on... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The outer casing 153 is shown. Other components, such as the hydraulic distributor and onboard electronics 40, can also be housed here. The control panel 154 can also be arranged on the outer casing 153 for operation from the outside of the outer casing 153. Of course, another fixed or removable control panel can also be conventionally provided on the work platform 150, allowing the onboard operator to control the raising or lowering of the work platform 150 and the movement of the scissor lift 101 on the ground.

[0094] Since these components are smaller than the battery pack 20, a position 108 is provided on one side of the chassis 102 for removably mounting any of the multiple different second self-sufficient power sources 15 here. Figure 5 The location shown is position 108, where no second self-sufficient power supply is installed. Figure 6 The second self-sufficient power source 15 is located at position 108.

[0095] Understandably, for Figures 1 to 3 The description of the second self-sufficient power supply 15 and the management method of the telescopic forklift 1 shown also applies to the aerial work platform 101.

[0096] It is understood that this invention can also be applied to other aerial work platforms besides scissor lifts. In particular, it is suitable for aerial work platforms with telescopic booms, the booms being mounted obliquely on a turret, which is mounted on a chassis. The telescopic booms can be mounted directly on the turret about a horizontal axis, or mounted on the turret via arms that are hinged to each other and provide height deployment capability, with one end of the lower arm pivotally mounted on the turret about a horizontal axis, and the telescopic boom pivotally mounted at one end of the upper arm about a horizontal axis.

[0097] Generally speaking, the present invention is not limited to the examples and embodiments described and shown, but there are many variations that can be obtained by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. Cranes used for people or goods (1; 101), including: Lifting systems for people or goods (5; 105） The power supply circuit (30) includes: At least one motor (21, 23) is used to actuate the lifting system (5) and move the crane on the ground, and At least one first self-sufficient power source (20) is housed in the first position of the crane. The crane is designed to be powered solely by a first self-contained power source. The crane also includes: A second position (8; 108) separate from the first position is used to detachably accommodate a second self-sufficient power source (15) separate from the first self-sufficient power source (20). The second self-sufficient power source is selectable from a plurality of different second self-sufficient power sources (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e), which is not entirely composed of a generator set (15a) and not entirely composed of a device for storing electrical energy (15c, 15d). Electrical connection system (35, 36) is adapted to connect any one of the plurality of second self-contained power sources housed in the second position (8) to the electrical connection system, such that the second self-contained power source (15) supplies power to the power circuit (30); An identification system is used to identify which of the multiple second self-sufficient power sources (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e) are housed in the second location (8), and The airborne electronic device (40) is configured to manage the electrical energy supplied by the second self-sufficient power source (15) to the power circuit (30) based on the second self-sufficient power source identified by the identification system.

2. The crane according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the second self-contained power sources is designed to output DC voltage, and at least one of the other second self-contained power sources is designed to output AC voltage.

3. The crane according to claim 2 further includes an electrical adaptation system (31) for adjusting the electrical characteristics of the electrical energy supplied to the power circuit (30) by at least one of the second self-sufficient power sources when at least one of the second self-sufficient power sources is connected to the electrical connection system (35), the electrical adaptation system (31) including at least one AC-DC converter and / or at least one DC-DC converter.

4. The crane according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the second self-sufficient power supplies is designed to output DC voltage, at least one of the other second self-sufficient power supplies is designed to output only single-phase AC voltage, and at least one of the other second self-sufficient power supplies is designed to output three-phase AC voltage.

5. The crane according to claim 1 further includes an electrical adaptation system (31) for adjusting the electrical characteristics of the electrical energy supplied to the power circuit (30) by at least one of the plurality of second self-contained power sources when at least one of the plurality of second self-contained power sources is connected to the electrical connection system (35).

6. The crane according to claim 5, wherein, The design of the airborne electronic device (40) enables the electrical adaptation system to adjust or not adjust the electrical characteristics of the electrical energy supplied by the second self-sufficient power source (15) to the power circuit (30) based on the second self-sufficient power source identified by the identification system.

7. The crane according to claim 5, wherein, The electrical adaptation system (31) includes at least one DC-DC converter.

8. The crane according to claim 1, wherein, The identification system includes a data transmission device that, when the second self-contained power source is housed in the second position (8), is adapted to establish a data transmission link with any one of the plurality of second self-contained power sources (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e), and the onboard electronic device (40) cooperates with the data transmission device to acquire identification data from the second self-contained power source (15).

9. The crane according to claim 1, configured to charge the first self-sufficient power source (20) using electrical energy provided by the second self-sufficient power source (15), wherein, The airborne electronic device adjusts the load curve of the first self-sufficient power supply (20) based on the second self-sufficient power supply (15) identified by the identification system.

10. The crane according to claim 1, configured to charge the first self-sufficient power source (20) using electrical energy provided by the second self-sufficient power source (15), and configured to simultaneously power the at least one motor (21, 23) using the first self-sufficient power source (20) and the second self-sufficient power source (15).

11. The crane according to claim 10, configured to allow the operator to select between charging the first self-sufficient power source (20) with electrical energy provided by the second self-sufficient power source (15) and simultaneously powering the at least one motor (21, 23) with the first self-sufficient power source (20) and the second self-sufficient power source (15).

12. The crane according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the multiple second self-sufficient power sources (15a) includes a start-up function capable of supplying electrical energy and / or a stop function capable of stopping the supply of electrical energy, and the airborne electronics (40) is configured to control the start-up and / or stop of the second self-sufficient power source.

13. The crane according to claim 1, wherein, Multiple secondary self-sufficient power sources include fuel cells (15b) and / or solar panels (15e).

14. The crane according to claim 1, wherein, The second position (8) is equipped with means for use with any one of the second self-sufficient power sources (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e) to position and detachably hold the second self-sufficient power source in or on the second position (8), and these means are identical for each of the second self-sufficient power sources.

15. The crane according to claim 1, wherein, The electrical connection system includes a power connector (35) capable of connecting to any one of the second self-sufficient power sources (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e).

16. The crane according to claim 1, wherein, The first self-sufficient power source is the first rechargeable battery pack.

17. A power supply group consisting of multiple different second self-sufficient power sources (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e), not entirely composed of a generator set (15a) and not entirely composed of energy storage devices (15c, 15d), each second self-sufficient power source being arranged to be housed at a second position (8; 108) of the same crane according to any one of claims 1 to 16, and connected to the crane's electrical connection system as said second self-sufficient power source (15). in, Each of the second self-sufficient power sources includes an identification device, such that the identification system of the crane is able to identify the second self-sufficient power source (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e) when it is housed in the second position (8).

18. The power supply according to claim 17, wherein, At least one of the second self-sufficient power sources is designed to output DC voltage, and at least one of the other second self-sufficient power sources is designed to output AC voltage.

19. The power supply bank according to claim 17, wherein, At least one of the second self-sufficient power supplies is designed to output DC voltage, at least one of the other second self-sufficient power supplies is designed to output only single-phase AC voltage, and at least one of the other second self-sufficient power supplies is designed to output three-phase AC voltage.

20. The power supply group according to claim 17, comprising a plurality of second self-contained power supplies, each outputting a different DC voltage.

21. The power supply according to claim 17, wherein, Each second self-sufficient power source includes the same device for positioning it in place and removably holding it in place in the second position (8; 108) of the crane.

22. The power supply according to claim 21, wherein, Each second self-contained power source includes the same housing to house its components.

23. The power supply according to claim 17, comprising one or more of the following second self-sufficient power sources: fuel cells and / or solar panels (15e).

24. A group comprising a crane according to any one of claims 1 to 16 and a power supply group consisting of a plurality of second self-contained power sources, not entirely consisting of a generator set (15a) and not entirely consisting of devices for storing electrical energy (15c, 15d), each second self-contained power source being configured to be housed in a second position (8; 108) of the crane and connected to the electrical connection system of the crane, serving as the second self-contained power source (15) of the crane, and each of the second self-contained power sources comprising an identification device such that the identification system of the crane is capable of identification when the second self-contained power source (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e) is housed in the second position (8).

25. A method of operating a crane according to any one of claims 1 to 16, comprising: A power supply group consisting of multiple different second self-sufficient power sources (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e) is provided, so that any one of them can be used as the second self-sufficient power source (15) with the crane. The power supply group consisting of multiple different second self-sufficient power sources is not entirely composed of a generator set (15a) and not entirely composed of energy storage devices (15c, 15d). Each second self-sufficient power source is configured to be housed in a second position (8; 108) of the crane and connected to the electrical connection system of the crane, serving as the second self-sufficient power source (15) of the crane. Furthermore, each of the second self-sufficient power sources includes an identification device, such that the identification system of the crane can identify the second self-sufficient power source (15a, 15b, 15c, 15d, 15e) when it is housed in the second position (8).

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