Pinning device for assembling two structural elements, in particular for cranes

Abstract

A pinning device (1) comprising:-a yoke (2) comprising two plates (21, 22), both of which have a through-hole (213, 223) and delimit a slot (23); -two support elements (3, 4) which are fastened on the outer surfaces (212, 222) of the two plates around their through-holes; and-a pin joint rod (5) having two opposite ends (51, 52) and shaped to pass through the through-hole and the two support elements; the pinning device may be configured in:-two standby configurations in which one of the two ends of the pinning rod is locked on one of the two support elements, the rod not engaging in the slot; and-an assembly configuration in which the pin joint rod engages in the slot and is locked on the two support elements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a pin-connection device for assembling a first structural element and a second structural element.

[0002] The present invention also relates to a pin-connecting method implemented by means of a pin-connecting device.

[0003] The present invention discovers a preferred, and non-limiting, application for assembling two structural elements of a crane, and particularly for assembling a component crane, a tower crane, or an automated assembly crane, and especially for assembling a rotating pivot and cantilever support of a tower crane. Background Technology

[0004] In known methods, cranes used on construction sites for building and civil engineering projects include a mast with a rotating upper component mounted at its top. This rotating upper component is oriented about a vertical axis and includes a cantilever and a sub-cantilever serving as counterweight supports. The rotating upper component typically includes a rotating pivot on which a cantilever support is mounted. The cantilever and sub-cantilever are assembled on either side of the cantilever support.

[0005] One solution for assembling a cantilever bracket onto a rotating pivot is to use a pin that passes directly through the yoke (also called a stirrup) and a tenon, forming a complementary assembly element mounted in the yoke. Typically, the yoke comprises two plates extending parallel to each other and facing each other, defining a groove for receiving the tenon, and having through holes that allow the pin to pass through.

[0006] However, pin-joints are particularly heavy components, often exceeding 25 kg (some even reaching 80 kg). Even with specialized actuators to pull or push them, they are difficult for one or more operators responsible for installing and dismantling the crane to lift and move manually. Engaging and removing pin-joints is also not without risk for the operators.

[0007] Furthermore, the operator uses tools (such as a hammer or hydraulic jack) to insert the pin into the yoke and pass it through the through holes of the two plates. Depending on the size of the through holes in the plates and the pin, friction may be applied to the pin and the through holes in the plates, causing them damage. In other words, the passage of the pin inside the yoke results in wear on both the pin and the through holes in the plates.

[0008] Therefore, there has always been a need to assemble and disassemble the rotary pivot and cantilever bracket, and more broadly, the two structural components, in a simple and efficient manner (e.g., by limiting the number of actions the operator must perform) and in a safe manner. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Therefore, in order to meet the previously mentioned needs, the present invention provides a pin-connecting device for assembling a first structural element and a second structural element, the pin-connecting device comprising:

[0010] - A yoke intended to be fixed to a first structural element, the yoke comprising two plates that extend parallel to each other and face each other, and defining a groove for receiving a tenon fixed to a second structural element, wherein each of the two plates has an inner surface defining the groove and an outer surface opposite to the inner surface, and wherein the two plates have aligned corresponding through holes.

[0011] - Two support elements, which are fastened to the corresponding outer surfaces of the two plates around corresponding through holes; and

[0012] - A pin connecting rod, which extends longitudinally along the longitudinal axis and has a first end and a second end opposite to each other, the pin connecting rod being shaped to pass through through holes in two plates and through two support elements;

[0013] The pin connection device can be configured to:

[0014] - First standby configuration, wherein the first end of the pin is carried and locked onto one of two support elements, namely the first support element, and the pin is not engaged inside the slot;

[0015] - Assembly configuration in which the pin rod passes through two plates and engages inside the slot, such that the first end of the pin rod is carried and locked onto the other of the two support elements, namely the second support element, and the second end is carried and locked onto the first support element;

[0016] - Second standby configuration, wherein the second end of the pin is carried and locked on the second support element, and the pin is not engaged inside the slot.

[0017] In the following text, unless otherwise stated, when the pin engagement device is indicated to be in its first or second standby configuration, it should be understood that the pin engagement rod is not engaged inside the slot of the yoke.

[0018] The pin-connector is designed to switch from the first standby configuration to the assembled configuration in the following manner:

[0019] -Unlock the first end of the first support element;

[0020] - Move the pin axially along the first direction of movement until the first end engages in the second support element and the second end engages in the first support element; and

[0021] - Lock the first end of the pin-connecting rod, and correspondingly the second end, onto the second support element, and correspondingly the first support element.

[0022] The pin-connector is designed to switch from the assembled configuration to a second standby configuration in the following manner:

[0023] - Unlock the first end of the pin-connecting rod, and correspondingly the second end, from the second support element, and correspondingly the first support element;

[0024] - Move the pin axially along the same first direction of movement until the second end engages in the second support element (the pin is not engaged in the slot); and

[0025] - Lock the second end of the pin to the second support element.

[0026] In order to assemble the first structural element and the second structural element, the tenon fixed to the second structural element must be installed / inserted into the slot of the yoke before the pin connection device is switched from its first standby configuration to its assembly configuration.

[0027] When the first structural element and the second structural element are assembled, the first structural element and the second structural element can be disassembled by switching the pin connection device from the assembled configuration to the second standby configuration; and then removing the tenon fixed to the second structural element from the yoke.

[0028] The pin connection device is also designed to return from the second standby configuration to the first standby configuration in the following manner:

[0029] -Unlock the second end of the pin from the second support element;

[0030] - Move the pin axially along a second direction of movement opposite to the first direction of movement until the first end engages in the first support element (the pin is not engaged in the slot); and

[0031] - Lock the first end of the pin to the first support element.

[0032] The first advantage of the pin-connecting device is that it avoids the need for an operator or lifting equipment to lift and manipulate the pin-connecting rod, for example, in order to assemble or disassemble two structural components.

[0033] For example, after disassembling two structural components, the pin joint does not need to be removed from the pin joint device. The pin joint device can remain in its second standby configuration (where the cantilever pin joint is locked to the second support element; or be repositioned in its assembled configuration to be locked to both support elements) or in its first standby configuration.

[0034] In other words, and advantageously, after disassembly, the pin does not need to be removed, carried, or placed by one or more operators, as it remains in the proper position on one and / or the other of the two support elements.

[0035] Related to this first advantage, the first structural element can advantageously be transported / traveled when the pin is engaged in the pin-connecting device in one of three configurations. In other words, the pin does not need to be transported manually by one or more operators.

[0036] Finally, the operator advantageously retains the possibility of removing (in other words, disassembling) the pin from the yoke by unlocking the pin from the first support element (and correspondingly from the second support element) when the pin engagement device is configured in the first standby configuration (and correspondingly in the second standby configuration). The operator may wish to remove the pin from the pin engagement device in order to, for example, apply anti-corrosion treatment to limit its wear.

[0037] A second advantage of the pin-connecting device is that the operator can assemble and disassemble it, i.e., switch the pin-connecting device from a first standby configuration to an assembled configuration by axially moving the pin-connecting rod along the same first direction of movement, and then switch it from the assembled configuration to a second standby configuration, as previously described.

[0038] Therefore, the operator can advantageously use the same tool or actuator to axially move the pin and cause the switching between the two configurations mentioned above.

[0039] Furthermore, it is assumed that the pin connection device can be configured into two standby configurations (i.e., a first standby configuration and a second standby configuration), and the conversion from one to the other includes first switching the pin connection device to its assembled configuration, where the pin can be engaged, and then removing it from one side of the yoke (i.e., the side of the first support element) and from the other side of the yoke (i.e., the side of the second support element).

[0040] In other words, advantageously, the pin can be accessed from the inside or outside of the yoke, that is, from one or the other of the outer surface of the yoke plates.

[0041] Similarly, the pins can be advantageously removed from the inside or outside of the yoke, that is, from one or the other of the outer surface of the yoke plates.

[0042] For example, in a first application scenario, when the pin-connecting device is in a first ready-to-use configuration, in order to assemble the first structural element and the second structural element, the operator can position himself at the first support element and, after unlocking the first end on the first support element, use a mass or hydraulic cylinder to axially push the pin-connecting rod to engage it in the slot of the yoke, and this continues until its first end reaches the second support element. Subsequently, in order to disassemble the two structural elements, after unlocking both ends on the two support elements, the operator can continue to use his mass or hydraulic cylinder to axially move the pin-connecting rod until its second end reaches the second support element (the pin-connecting rod is not engaged in the slot).

[0043] In the second application scenario, to assemble two structural elements, the operator positions themselves at the second support element and, after unlocking the first end of the first support element, uses a lever hoist to pull the pin rod towards themselves to engage the pin rod in a slot in the yoke, and this continues until its first end reaches the second support element. In this second application scenario, the pin rod may include a hook-like component, such as a hook, designed to hook onto the lever hoist; such a hook-like component may be fixedly or detachably mounted on the pin rod.

[0044] To return the pin-connecting device from its second standby configuration to its first standby configuration, the operator can:

[0045] - In the first usage scenario, he positions himself at the second support element and uses his mass or a hydraulic cylinder to axially push the pin rod until the first end reaches the first support element and the pin rod is not engaged in the slot; or

[0046] - In the second usage scenario, position himself at the first support element and use a lever to pull the pin towards himself until the first end reaches the first support element and the pin is not engaged in the slot.

[0047] In both examples using the background, the pin moves along a second direction of movement opposite to the first direction of movement.

[0048] By providing the operator with the possibility of switching the pin-connector to each of its configurations by placing himself solely on one side of the pin-connector, and by preventing him from manipulating the pin-connector itself as previously described, the pin-connector advantageously allows for the restriction of operator movement and complex manipulation in hazardous areas, for example by limiting such manipulation during configuration switching to simply locking / unlocking the end of the pin-connector. This is, for example, in the field of crane operations, where operators often need to stand on a platform suspended above space to perform the assembly and disassembly of structural components (which may be secured to a mast or carried by lifting equipment).

[0049] Therefore, the pin-connection device allows for the simple, efficient, and safe assembly and disassembly of two structural components.

[0050] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pin-connecting device includes a first pin removably mounted in a first radial hole disposed at a first end of a pin-connecting rod, and a second pin removably mounted in a second radial hole disposed at a second end of the pin-connecting rod, and each of the two support elements includes two radially opposing openings through which either the first pin or the second pin can pass, such that:

[0051] - In the first standby configuration, the first pin passes through the two openings and the first radial hole of the first support element, axially locking the pin rod on the first support element and restricting the rotation of the pin rod;

[0052] - In the assembly configuration, the first pin passes through the two openings and the first radial hole of the second support element, and the second pin passes through the two openings and the second radial hole of the first support element, axially locking the pin connecting rod on the first support element and the second support element and restricting the rotation of the pin connecting rod;

[0053] - In the second standby configuration, the second pin passes through the two openings and the second radial hole of the second support element, axially locking the pin rod on the second support element and restricting the rotation of the pin rod.

[0054] Advantageously, the present invention enables the simple and efficient locking of the end of the pin-connecting rod onto the support element of the pin-connecting device, regardless of the configuration of the support element; the pin-connecting rod is locked onto a pin, which is removably mounted in a radial hole provided at the end of the pin-connecting rod, and the two radially opposite openings include two support elements and can be passed through by the pin.

[0055] When the pin is locked onto one of the support elements (in the standby configuration) or both support elements (in the assembled configuration), it is impossible to move it axially, at least with the installation clearance. Furthermore, depending on the configuration of the opening, it is restricted to rotate, or even prevented from rotating.

[0056] In other words, and advantageously, in the first standby configuration (and correspondingly in the second standby configuration), the intersection of the first pin (and correspondingly the second pin) in the two openings of the first support element (and correspondingly the second support element) and the first radial hole (and correspondingly the second radial hole) prevents translation of the pin connecting rod inside the first support element (and correspondingly the second support element) and restricts its rotation. Therefore, in the first standby configuration (and correspondingly in the second standby configuration), the pin connecting rod cannot advantageously disengage from the first support element (and correspondingly the second support element).

[0057] Similarly, and advantageously, in the assembled configuration, the intersection of the first pin in the two openings and the first radial hole of the second support element, and the intersection of the second pin in the two openings and the second radial hole of the first support element, prevent translation of the pin connecting rods inside the first and second support elements and restrict their rotation in the assembled configuration. Therefore, the pin connecting rods cannot advantageously disengage from the first and second support elements when the pin connecting device is in its assembled configuration.

[0058] Because translation of the pin rod within the first and / or second support elements is prevented and rotation is restricted, regardless of the pin connection configuration, and because the pin rod is specified to be installed in the support elements in a tight-fitting manner, friction between the pin rod and the through-hole of the yoke plate is advantageously and significantly reduced. Therefore, the risk of wear on the pin rod and plate at the through-hole is significantly reduced.

[0059] In one embodiment, the first end of the pin has a first radial hole and another first radial hole through which the first pin can pass, and the second end of the pin has a second radial hole and another second radial hole through which the second pin can pass.

[0060] Depending on the operator's use, the pin connecting rod is axially moved in either a first or second direction of movement to switch the pin engaging device from one configuration to another. The pin connecting rod can rotate on its own before being engaged in at least one of the first and second support elements. By providing another radial hole at each end of the pin connecting rod, it is likely that one or the other of the two radial holes will be opposite a corresponding opening to allow the passage of the corresponding pin.

[0061] In one embodiment of the invention, the first radial hole and another first radial hole are perpendicular, and the second radial hole and another second radial hole are perpendicular.

[0062] This configuration with two vertical radial holes is advantageous in ensuring that the radial holes face the openings used for mounting the associated pins.

[0063] In one embodiment of the invention, the two corresponding openings of the two support elements are rectangular.

[0064] Such rectangular openings provide advantageous angular displacement to ensure that the radial holes face the openings used for mounting the associated pins.

[0065] According to one embodiment of the invention, the two support elements are tubular.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the two support elements has a collar that is fastened to the respective outer surface of the two plates by a threaded connection or a bolt connection.

[0067] According to one embodiment of the invention, the pin is cylindrical and the two support elements have complementary bearings. In the assembly configuration, the pin is mounted in the complementary bearings in a tight fit with clearance.

[0068] The complementary bearing has a bearing diameter that is substantially larger than the diameter of the pin (called the rod diameter). That is, the pin is installed inside the complementary bearing with an installation clearance to facilitate the insertion of the pin into the support element and to ensure its axial guidance within the through-hole.

[0069] Therefore, in addition to locking, in the assembly configuration, the complementary bearing advantageously helps to retain / secure the first and second ends of the pin joint in the second and first support elements, respectively.

[0070] Furthermore, complementary bearings advantageously contribute to retaining / fastening: the first end of the pin in the first support element in the first standby configuration; and the second end of the pin in the second support element in the second standby configuration.

[0071] The present invention also relates to an assembly comprising a first structural element and a second structural element assembled by means of a pin-connecting device as previously described, wherein a yoke is fixed to the first structural element, and the second structural element includes a tenon inserted into a groove in the yoke and having an assembly hole aligned with through holes in two plates, wherein a pin rod passes through the assembly hole when the pin-connecting device is in its assembled configuration.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the first structural element and the second structural element correspond to the structural elements of the crane.

[0073] In other words, the pin-connection device advantageously allows the two structural components of the crane to be assembled in a simple, efficient and safe manner.

[0074] According to one embodiment, one of the first structural element and the second structural element corresponds to a rotational pivot, and the other of the first structural element and the second structural element corresponds to a cantilever bracket.

[0075] In other words, the pin-connection device advantageously allows for the simple, efficient, and safe assembly of the crane's rotating pivot and cantilever support.

[0076] Finally, this invention relates to an assembly / disassembly method for assembling / disassembling a first structural element and a second structural element by means of a pin-connecting device as described above, the method comprising the following steps:

[0077] - Position the pin connection device in its first standby configuration before assembly;

[0078] - The tenon that is fixed to the second structural element is installed in the groove of the yoke, and the tenon is provided with an assembly hole that aligns with the through holes of the two plates;

[0079] - After the pin has been moved axially along the direction of movement, the pin assembly is positioned in its assembly configuration, wherein the pin passes through the assembly hole, so that the first structural element and the second structural element are assembled.

[0080] - Before disassembly, after the pin rod has been moved axially along the direction of movement, position the pin assembly in the second standby configuration;

[0081] - Remove the tenon that secures the first structural element to the second structural element from the slot of the yoke, thereby disassembling the first and second structural elements.

[0082] The assembly / disassembly method therefore includes steps for switching the pin-connecting device from its first standby configuration to its assembled configuration, and from its assembled configuration to its second standby configuration. For these switching and for positioning the pin-connecting device in each of the configurations, the pin-connecting method includes the steps of locking at least one end of the two ends of the pin-connecting rod to position it in one of the three configurations, and unlocking at least one end of the two ends to allow axial movement of the pin-connecting rod.

[0083] In one embodiment, the assembly / disassembly method includes the step of positioning the pin engagement device in its first standby configuration after the tenon removal step and after the pin engagement rod is axially moved along a second direction of movement opposite to the (first) direction of movement. Attached Figure Description

[0084] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0085] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a crane using the pin-connecting device of the present invention;

[0086] Figure 2 Two schematic perspective views are shown when the pin connection device is in / positioned in its first standby configuration, wherein the yoke of the pin connection device is fixed to a first structural element corresponding to the pivot mast of the crane;

[0087] Figure 3 Two schematic perspective views are shown when the pin connection device is in / positioned in its assembled configuration;

[0088] Figure 4 A schematic perspective view is shown when the pin connection device is in / positioned in its second standby configuration;

[0089] Figure 5 It is a schematic side view of the pin connection device in its first standby configuration, and shows a tenon inserted into a slot in the yoke of the pin connection device, which is fixed to a second structural element corresponding to the cantilever bracket.

[0090] Figure 6 It is a schematic side view of the pin connection device in its assembled configuration, wherein the first structural element and the second structural element are assembled;

[0091] Figure 7 It is a schematic side view of the pin connection device in its second standby configuration, wherein the tenon of the second structural element is still inserted into the slot of the yoke of the pin connection device. Detailed Implementation

[0092] The pin-connecting device 1 of the present invention is designed for the assembly and disassembly of a first structural element E1 and a second structural element E2. The design of the pin-connecting device 1 presented below is given in an illustrative and non-limiting manner.

[0093] Furthermore, the pin-connecting device 1 can be applied to multiple operational fields. In the remainder of the specification, the pin-connecting device is considered to be used in the context of the installation and disassembly of the crane 100, for example, having a similar... Figure 1 The crane 100 with a distributed cantilever is shown in the figure. More precisely, the pin connection device 1 is used for the assembly and disassembly of the rotational pivot 101 of the crane 100 corresponding to the first structural element E1 and the cantilever support 102 corresponding to the second structural element E2.

[0094] Generally, a crane includes a mast 103 at the top of which is mounted a rotating upper component oriented about a vertical axis A1. This rotating upper component includes a cantilever 104 and a secondary cantilever 105, the secondary cantilever serving as a support for counterweights and / or equipment (such as winches). The rotating upper component typically includes a rotating pivot 101 on which a cantilever support 102 with tie rods 106 is mounted. The cantilever 104 and secondary cantilever 105 are assembled on either side of the cantilever support 102. A crane cab 107 can be secured to the crane's rotating pivot 101. The feet of the mast 103 can be mounted on a chassis 108, which can be, for example, secured / placed on the ground, or even mounted on a landing gear including rails or bogies.

[0095] refer to Figures 2 to 4 The pin connection device 1 includes a pin connection rod 5 that extends longitudinally along a longitudinal axis and has a first end 51 and a second end 52 opposite to each other. For example, and as shown in the various figures, the pin connection rod 5 may be cylindrical and have a rod diameter.

[0096] The pin-connecting device also includes a yoke 2, which is intended to be secured to the first structural element E1 (and thus to the rotational pivot 101). The yoke comprises two plates 21, 22, which extend parallel to each other and face each other, and these plates define a groove 23 intended to receive a tenon 109 secured to the second structural element E2. Each of the two plates 21, 22 has: an inner surface 211, 221 defining the groove 23 and an outer surface 212, 222 opposite to the inner surfaces 211, 221, and through holes 213, 223. The through holes 213, 223 of the plates 21, 22 are circular and each has a certain diameter. They are also formed in the two plates 21, 22 for alignment.

[0097] The pin-connecting device also includes two support elements 3 and 4, each support element comprising collars 32 and 42, which are fastened to the respective outer surfaces 212 and 222 of the two plates 21 and 22 by means of, for example, threaded connections or bolt connections. The two collars 32 and 42 have an inner diameter substantially larger than the diameter of the hole. The collars 32 and 42 (and therefore the support elements 3 and 4) are fastened to the respective outer surfaces 212 and 222 of the two plates 21 and 22 around their respective through holes 213 and 223.

[0098] The pin 5 is shaped to pass through through holes 213 and 223 in the two plates 21 and 22, and through the two support elements 3 and 4. For this purpose, the diameter of the pin 5 corresponds to the diameter of the through holes 213 and 223.

[0099] Pin connection device 1 can be configured to:

[0100] Figure 2 The first standby configuration shown in the figure is that the first end 51 of the pin 5 is carried and locked on one of the two support elements 3 and 4, namely the first support element 3, and the pin 5 is not engaged inside the groove 23.

[0101] Figure 3 The assembly configuration shown in the figure is such that the pin 5 engages inside the slot 23 as it passes through the two plates 21, 22, such that the first end 51 of the pin 5 is carried and locked to the other of the two support elements 3, 4, namely the second support element 4, and the second end 52 is carried and locked to the first support element 3.

[0102] Figure 4 The second standby configuration shown in the figure is in which the second end 52 of the pin 5 is carried and locked on the second support element 4, and the pin 5 is not engaged inside the groove 23.

[0103] In one embodiment, the support elements 3, 4 are designed to be removably mounted on the outer surfaces 212, 222 of the plates 21, 22; for example, to allow the yoke 2 to be treated with anti-corrosion measures when the support elements 3, 4 are removed.

[0104] Refer to the same three Figures 2 to 4 A first radial hole 55 and a second radial hole 56 are drilled at the first end 51 and the second end of the pin rod 5, respectively. The first radial hole 55 and the second radial hole 56 are drilled along a drilling axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the pin rod 5.

[0105] The first radial hole 55 and the second radial hole 56 are configured to be passed through by the first pin 53 and the second pin 54, respectively, which are removably mounted on the pin-connecting rod 5. Each of the two support elements 3 and 4 includes two radially opposed openings 31 and 41. The openings 31 and 41 are arranged such that once the first end 51 or the second end 52 is engaged in the first support element 3 or the second support element 4, the openings 31 and 41 allow an operator to access the first radial hole 55 and / or the second radial hole 56; the first pin 53 and the second pin 54 can then be passed through the openings 31 and 41 and the radial holes 55 and 56 at the ends of the pin-connecting rod 5, and then the pin-connecting rod can be subsequently locked onto one or both support elements 3 and 4 using one or both pins 53 and 54.

[0106] Therefore, in the first standby configuration, the first pin 53 passes through the two openings 31 and the first radial hole 55 of the first support element 3, thus axially locking the pin rod 5 onto the first support element 3.

[0107] In the assembly configuration, the first pin 53 passes through the two openings 41 and the first radial hole 55 of the second support element 4, and the second pin 54 passes through the two openings 31 and the second radial hole 56 of the first support element 3, thus axially locking the pin rod 5 onto the first support element 3 and the second support element 4.

[0108] Finally, in the second standby configuration, the second pin 54 passes through the two openings 41 and the second radial hole 56 of the second support element 4, thus axially locking the pin rod 5 onto the second support element 4.

[0109] The pin connecting rod 5 is a device / tool ​​used by the operator to axially move the pin connecting device 1 along a first or second direction of movement to switch the pin connecting device 1 from one configuration to another. The pin connecting rod 5 can rotate on its own before being engaged in at least one of the first support element 3 and the second support element 4. When the first end 51 and the second end 52 each include only one radial hole 55 and a second radial hole 56, at least one of the first radial hole 55 and the second radial hole 56 may not be aligned (i.e., face) with the openings 31, 41 of at least one of the first support element 3 and the second support element 4, thus preventing the installation of at least one of the first pin 53 and the second pin 54.

[0110] In one embodiment, and as Figures 2 to 4 As shown, a radial hole 55 and another first radial hole 55' can be drilled at the first end 51 of the pin connecting rod 5; and a second radial hole 56 and another second radial hole 56' can be drilled at the second end 52 of the pin connecting rod 5. Then it is likely that one or the other of the two radial holes 55, 55', 56, 56' will be opposite to the corresponding openings 31, 41 to allow the corresponding pins 53, 54 to pass through.

[0111] As an example, it is conceivable that the first radial hole 55 is perpendicular to another first radial hole 55', and the second radial hole 56 is perpendicular to another second radial hole 56'. This configuration with two perpendicular radial holes 55, 55', 56, 56' is advantageous for ensuring that the radial holes 55, 55', 56, 56' are opposite to the openings 31, 41 for mounting the associated pins 53, 54.

[0112] To ensure that the radial holes 55, 55', 56, 56' are aligned with each of the openings 31, 41 for mounting the associated pins 53, 54, the two openings 31, 41 may, for example, have a rectangular shape.

[0113] When the pin 5 is locked onto one or both of the support elements 3 and 4, it cannot move axially. Rotation of the pin 5 within the two support elements 3 and 4 is also restricted. For example, as... Figures 2 to 4 As shown, the first pin 53 and the second pin 54 both have a length such that once one pin and / or the other pin is inserted into the first radial hole 55 and the second radial hole 56, it or they abut against the openings 31, 41 of the first support element 3 and / or the second support element 4 when the operator attempts to move the pin connecting rod 5 axially.

[0114] In other words, and advantageously, in the first standby configuration (and correspondingly in the second standby configuration), the intersection of the first pin 53 (and correspondingly the second pin 54) in the openings 31, 41 of the first support element 3 (and correspondingly the second support element 4) and the first radial hole 55 (and correspondingly the second radial hole 56) prevents translation of the pin rod 5 inside the first support element 3 (and correspondingly the second support element 4) and restricts its rotation. Therefore, in the first standby configuration (and correspondingly in the second standby configuration), the pin rod 5 cannot advantageously disengage from the first support element 3 (and correspondingly the second support element 4).

[0115] Similarly, and advantageously, in the assembled configuration, the intersection of the first pin 53 in the opening 41 and the first radial hole 55 of the second support element 4, and the intersection of the second pin 54 in the opening 31 and the second radial hole 56 of the first support element 3, prevents translation of the pin connecting rod 5 inside the first support element 3 and the second support element 4 and restricts its rotation. Therefore, the pin connecting rod 5 cannot advantageously disengage from the first support element 3 and the second support element 4 when the pin connecting device 1 is in its assembled configuration.

[0116] In order to fit the pin rod 5 (more precisely, its two ends 51, 52) in each configuration of the pin connection device 1 in a tight fit, the first support element 3 and the second support element 4 may both include complementary bearings 33, 43, in which the pin rod 5 may engage.

[0117] The complementary bearings 33 and 43 have a bearing diameter that is substantially larger than the rod diameter of the pin 5. That is, the pin 5 is installed inside the complementary bearings 33 and 34 with an installation clearance to facilitate the insertion of the pin 5 into the support elements 3 and 4 and to ensure its axial guidance within the through holes 213 and 223.

[0118] Because regardless of the configuration of the pin connection device 1, the translation of the pin connection rod 5 within the first support element 3 and / or the second support element 4 is prevented and its rotation is restricted, and because the pin connection rod is installed in the support elements 3 and 4 in a tight-fitting manner, the friction between the pin connection rod 5 and the through holes 213 and 223 of the plates 21 and 22 of the yoke 2 is advantageously and significantly reduced. Therefore, the risk of wear on the pin connection rod 5 and the plates 21 and 22 at the through holes 213 and 223 is significantly reduced.

[0119] When the pin connection device 1 is in its first standby configuration, it is designed to switch to its assembled configuration in the following manner:

[0120] Unlock and remove the first pin 53 to unlock the first end 51 on the first support element 3;

[0121] Move the pin rod 5 axially along the first moving direction until the first end 51 engages in the second support element 4 and the second end 52 engages in the first support element 3;

[0122] Insert the first pin 53 (and correspondingly the second pin 54) into the first radial hole 55 (and correspondingly the second radial hole 56); and

[0123] Lock the first pin 53 (and correspondingly the second pin 54) onto the first end 51 (and correspondingly the second end 52), and then lock the first end 51 (and correspondingly the second end 52) onto the second support element 4 (and correspondingly the first support element 3).

[0124] Pin connection device 1 is also configured to switch from the assembly configuration to a second standby configuration in the following manner:

[0125] Unlock and remove the first pin 53 and the second pin 54, thereby unlocking the first end 51 and the second end 52 on the second support element 4 and the first support element 3, respectively.

[0126] The pin 5 is moved axially along the first direction of movement until the second end 52 engages in the second support element 4 (the pin 5 is not engaged in the groove 23); and

[0127] Lock the second pin 54 onto the second end 52, and then lock the second end 52 onto the second support element 4.

[0128] refer to Figures 5 to 7 To assemble the first structural element E1 (i.e., the rotating pivot 101) and the second structural element E2 (i.e., the cantilever bracket 102), the tenon 109, which is fixed to the second structural element E2, is first inserted into the slot 23 of the yoke 2 when the pin connection device 1 is in its first ready-to-use configuration. The tenon 109 has an assembly hole 100, which has a diameter at least the same as the diameter of the through holes 213, 223 and the rod diameter of the pin connection 5. The tenon 109 is inserted into the slot 23 such that its assembly hole 110 is aligned with the through holes 213, 223.

[0129] Then, the pin-connecting device 1 is switched from its first standby configuration to its assembled configuration. During its axial movement along the first direction of movement, the pin-connecting rod 5 passes through the through holes 213 and 223 of the plates 21 and 22 of the yoke 2 and the assembly hole 110 of the tenon 109. Once the pin-connecting device 1 is positioned in its assembled configuration, the first structural element E1 is assembled with the second structural element E2, wherein the first end 51 and the second end 52 of the pin-connecting rod 5 are respectively locked onto the second support element 4 and the first support element 3.

[0130] To disassemble the first structural element E1 and the second structural element E2, the pin connection device 1 is switched from its assembled configuration to its second standby configuration. Once the pin connection device 1 is positioned in its second standby configuration, and since the second end 52 of the pin is not engaged in the slot 23, and therefore not in the assembly hole 110 of the tenon 109, the tenon 109 can be removed from the slot 23.

[0131] After disassembly, the pin-connecting device 1 is intended to return from its second standby configuration to its first standby configuration. To this end, the second end 52 is unlocked from the second support element, and then the pin-connecting rod 5 is axially moved in a second direction of movement opposite to the first direction of movement until the first end 51 of the pin-connecting rod 5 is received in the first support element 3, and the pin-connecting rod is not engaged in the slot 23. Finally, the first end 51 of the pin-connecting rod 5 is locked in the first support element 3, and the pin-connecting device 1 is then positioned in its first standby configuration.

[0132] Because the pin-connecting device 1 can return from its second standby configuration to its first standby configuration, it is able to switch from its second standby configuration to its assembled configuration, and then switch from its assembled configuration to its first standby configuration.

[0133] Regardless of the configuration in which the pin connection device 1 is positioned, at least one of the two ends 51, 52 of the pin connection rod 5 is carried and locked in at least one of the two support elements 3, 4.

[0134] Therefore, and advantageously, during the assembly or disassembly of the rotating pivot 101 and the cantilever bracket, and more generally between the first structural element E1 and the second structural element E2, the operator does not need to manipulate the pin connecting rod 5 itself.

[0135] In other words, and advantageously, when assembling or disassembling the rotating pivot 101 and the cantilever bracket, the operator does not need to lift the pin 5, move it by arm strength, place it, etc.

[0136] Generally, in order to assemble the rotary pivot 101 with the cantilever bracket 12, the operator stands on or even moves on the suspension platform 300, which can, for example, be fastened to the rotary pivot 101 (as...). Figures 5 to 7 (as shown in the diagram); or held, raised, and lowered by lifting equipment. Depending on the steps required to assemble and disassemble the two crane components 100, the operator may need to use multiple tools and / or actuators, or must move on the platform 300 to perform dangerous maneuvers that could jeopardize their safety.

[0137] Advantageously, as the pin rod 5 moves axially along the same first direction of movement, the switching of the pin device 1 from its first standby configuration to its assembled configuration, and from its assembled configuration to its second standby configuration, makes it possible to limit: the number of dangerous operations, the movement of the operator on the platform 300, and the number of tools or actuators used for assembly or disassembly.

[0138] Assume that the pin connection device 1 can be configured into two standby configurations (i.e., a first standby configuration and a second standby configuration), and the process of switching from one to the other includes first switching the pin connection device 1 to its assembled configuration, whereby the pin connection rod 5 can be engaged, and then removing it from one side of the yoke 2 (i.e., one side of the first support element 3) and from the other side of the yoke 2 (i.e., one side of the second support element 4).

[0139] In other words, advantageously, the pin 5 can be accessed from the inside or outside of the yoke 2, that is, from one or the other of the outer surfaces 212, 222 of the plates 21, 22 of the yoke 2.

[0140] Similarly, the pin 5 can be advantageously removed from the inside or outside of the yoke 2, that is, from one or the other of the outer surfaces 212, 222 of the plates 21, 22 of the yoke 2.

[0141] refer to Figures 5 to 7 With the platform 300 secured to the rotational pivot 101, the operator can, for example, position themselves at the first support element 3 and use an actuator, such as a hydraulic cylinder, to axially push the pin rod 5 in a first direction of movement during switching of the pin connection device 1 between its first standby configuration and its assembled configuration, and between its assembled configuration and its second standby configuration. When the pin rod 5 is cylindrical as described in the context of this specification, the operator can also use, for example, a heavy object to strike the base of the pin rod 5 located at the second end 52.

[0142] Conversely, to achieve these two switching operations, the operator can, for example, position themselves at the height of the second support element 4 and slide the lever into the through holes 213, 223, which will hook onto the hook-like member 47 (e.g., a hook) included in the pin connecting rod 5, allowing the operator to axially pull the pin connecting rod 5 in the first direction of movement. Therefore, in this application context, the operator's movement on the platform can be restricted to insertion into and locking the radial holes 55, 56, or unlocking from and removing the first pin 53 and / or the second pin 54.

[0143] The pin-connecting device 1 of the present invention can therefore realize the assembly and disassembly of the rotating pivot 101 and the cantilever bracket 102, or more generally, the assembly and disassembly of the first structural element E1 and the second structural element E2, in a simple, effective and safe manner.

[0144] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent that modifications and changes may be made to these examples without departing from the overall scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Specifically, various individual features of the illustrated / mentioned embodiments may be combined in additional embodiments. Therefore, the specification and drawings should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive.

[0145] It is equally evident that all features described in the reference method may be applied individually or in combination to the device, and conversely, all features described in the reference device may be applied individually or in combination to the method.

Claims

1. A pin-connecting device (1) for assembling a first structural element (E1) and a second structural element (E2), the pin-connecting device (1) comprising: - A yoke (2) intended to be fixed to the first structural element (E1), the yoke (2) comprising two plates (21, 22) extending parallel to each other and defining a groove (23) for receiving a tenon (109) fixed to the second structural element (E2), wherein each of the two plates (21, 22) has an inner surface (211, 221) defining the groove (23) and an outer surface (212, 222) opposite to the inner surface (211, 221), and wherein the two plates (21, 22) have aligned corresponding through holes (213, 223). - Two support elements (3, 4) are fastened to the respective outer surfaces (212, 222) of the two plates (21, 22) around their respective through holes (213, 223); and - Pin rod (5), which extends longitudinally along the longitudinal axis and has a first end (51) and a second end (52) opposite to each other, the pin rod (5) being shaped to pass through through holes (213, 223) of the two plates (21, 22) and through the two support elements (3, 4). The pin connection device (1) can be configured to: - First standby configuration, wherein the first end (51) of the pin (5) is carried and locked on one of the two support elements (3, 4), namely the first support element (3), and the pin (5) is not engaged inside the groove (23); - Assembly configuration, wherein the pin (5) is engaged inside the groove (23) by passing through the two plates (21, 22), such that the first end (51) of the pin (5) is carried and locked on the other of the two support elements (3, 4), namely the second support element (4), and the second end (52) is carried and locked on the first support element (3); - Second standby configuration, wherein the second end (52) of the pin (5) is carried and locked on the second support element (4), and the pin (5) is not engaged inside the groove (23).

2. The pin-connecting device (1) according to claim 1, comprising: A first pin (53) is removably mounted in a first radial hole (55), the first radial hole being disposed on the first end (51) of the pin connecting rod (5); And a second pin (54) removably mounted in a second radial hole (56) disposed on the second end (52) of the pin connector (5), and each of the two support elements (3, 4) includes two radially opposing openings (31, 41) through which either the first pin (53) or the second pin (54) can pass, such that - In the first standby configuration, the first pin (53) passes through the two openings (31) and the first radial hole (55) of the first support element (3) to axially lock the pin rod (5) onto the first support element (3) and restrict the rotation of the pin rod; - In the assembly configuration, the first pin (53) passes through the two openings (41) and the first radial hole (55) of the second support element (4), and the second pin (52) passes through the two openings (31) and the second radial hole (56) of the first support element (3), axially locking the pin rod (5) on the first support element (3) and the second support element (4) and restricting the rotation of the pin rod; - In the second standby configuration, the second pin (54) passes through the two openings (41) and the second radial hole (56) of the second support element (4), axially locking the pin rod (5) onto the second support element (4) and restricting the rotation of the pin rod.

3. The pin-connecting device (1) according to claim 2, wherein, The first end (51) of the pin (5) has the first radial hole (55) and another first radial hole (55') through which the first pin (53) can also pass, and the second end (52) of the pin (5) has the second radial hole (56) and another second radial hole (56') through which the second pin (54) can also pass.

4. The pin-connecting device (1) according to claim 3, wherein, The first radial hole (55) and the other first radial hole (55') are perpendicular, and the second radial hole (56) and the other second radial hole (56') are perpendicular.

5. The pin-connecting device (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The two corresponding openings (31, 41) in the two support elements (3, 4) are rectangular.

6. The pin-connecting device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The two support elements (3, 4) are tubular.

7. The pin-connecting device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The two support elements (3, 4) each have a collar (32, 42), which are fastened to the corresponding outer surfaces (212, 222) of the two plates (21, 22) by threaded or bolted connections.

8. The pin-connecting device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The pin (5) is cylindrical, and the two support elements (3, 4) have complementary bearings (33, 43), in which the pin (5) is fitted in the complementary bearings in a tight fit with clearance in the assembly configuration.

9. An assembly comprising a first structural element (E1) and a second structural element (E2) assembled by means of a pin-connecting device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the yoke (2) is fixed to the first structural element (E1), and the second structural element (E2) comprises a tenon (109) inserted into a groove (23) of the yoke (2) and provided with an assembly hole (110) aligned with through holes (213, 223) of the two plates (21, 22), and wherein the pin-connecting rod (5) passes through the assembly hole (110) when the pin-connecting device (1) is in its assembled configuration.

10. The component of claim 9, wherein, The first structural element (E1) and the second structural element (E2) correspond to the structural elements of the crane (100).

11. The component of claim 10, wherein, One of the first structural element (E1) and the second structural element (E2) corresponds to the rotation pivot (101), and the other of the first structural element (E1) and the second structural element (E2) corresponds to the cantilever bracket (102).

12. An assembly / disassembly method for assembling / disassembling a first structural element (E1) and a second structural element (E2) by means of a pin-connecting device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising the following steps: - Before assembly, the pin connection device (1) is positioned in its first standby configuration; - The tenon (109) fixed to the second structural element (E2) is installed in the groove (23) of the yoke (2), and the tenon (109) is provided with an assembly hole (110) aligned with the through holes (213, 223) of the two plates (21, 22). - After the pin rod (5) has been moved axially along the moving direction, the pin device (1) is positioned in its assembly configuration, wherein the pin rod (5) passes through the assembly hole (110) so that the first structural element (E1) and the second structural element (E2) are assembled. - Before disassembly, after the pin rod (5) has been moved axially in the direction of movement, the pin device (1) is positioned in the second standby configuration; - Remove the tenon (109) fixed to the second structural element (E2) from the slot (23) of the yoke (2), so that the first structural element (E1) and the second structural element (E2) are disassembled.

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