Tilting device for a lifting device, in particular for a forklift truck

Abstract

Tipping device (1) for a lifting device (110), in particular a forklift (100), for holding and tipping containers (200) from the front, wherein the device has a base frame (2) extending along a longitudinal axis with receptacles (4) for tines of the lifting device (100) and a tipping frame (3) which is rotatably mounted at the front end of the base frame (2) about a transverse axis (5) and extends to the rear end of the base frame (2), wherein a second actuator (6) is further provided, which is connected at one end to the front third of the base frame (2) and at the other end to the rear lower end of the tipping frame (3), wherein lateral retaining elements (9) are arranged in the transverse axis direction along a rail (10) hydraulically or by means of a spindle drive to hold a container (200) on the tipping frame (3), characterized in that a first actuator (6b) is provided,which raises the tilting frame (3) to a tilting angle of 10° to 20°, preferably 15°, and the second actuator (6) raises the tilting frame (3) to a maximum tilting angle of less than or equal to 90°, wherein the first actuator (6b) and the second actuator (6) are configured such that they are pressurized simultaneously during operation, and wherein 10% to 15% of the length of the tilting frame projects beyond the front end of the base frame, thereby reducing the required force and thus the height or diameter of the first actuator (6b) and the second actuator (6).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a tilting device for a lifting device, in particular for a forklift truck, for holding and tilting containers frontally.

[0002] Tilting devices of this type for a lifting device are known from the prior art.

[0003] Patent specification DD 210 889 B1 describes an attachment for forklifts that enables the "frontal" tipping or emptying of standard box pallets. The forks on the forklift's front plate are replaced with a clamping base unit and a gripper frame with pins. The gripper frame is mounted on the rack and pinion system and grips the box pallet laterally, enabling it to tip forward via a pinion and rack mechanism. The drawback is the time-consuming reconfiguration of the forklift. Furthermore, only light loads can be lifted in the area of ​​a box pallet, as otherwise the lateral load on the rack and pinion system will lead to mechanical failure. Heavy containers for construction and other applications cannot be used with this attachment.

[0004] Furthermore, German patent application DE 10 2006 014 213 A1 describes a tipping device for laterally tipping a container loaded with bulk material while standing on a railway wagon. The tipping device disclosed in DE 10 2006 014 213 A1 has a hold-down pin that engages in a corresponding recess on the railway wagon and is supported by it. A tipping arm attached to the device engages one long side of the container and lifts it on that side sufficiently to rotate the container around the opposite long side standing on the railway wagon. This allows the bulk material inside the container to be unloaded perpendicular to the direction of travel. The container is thus tipped sideways. However, this device only functions in conjunction with a specially designed railway wagon. Use independent of the railway track is not possible with this device.Only very small tilt angles can be achieved, and a frontal tilt is not possible.

[0005] Furthermore, DE 37 09 099 A1 describes a device for tipping transport containers, wherein the tipping device is designed to be attached to a forklift. The tipping device comprises an L-shaped base and a tipping bolster that can pivot relative to it and is connected to the front end of the horizontal leg of the base. A horizontal arm assembly is slidably guided on the vertical leg of the base and engages a rear end of the tipping bolster, so that a tipping position of the bolster can be set when the arm assembly is moved vertically away from the horizontal base. A disadvantage of this design is that the arm assembly has an extendable cantilever arm, which must withstand high lateral forces and is therefore subject to considerable mechanical stress. The vertical movement of the arm assembly also requires a long vertical leg of the base, resulting in a considerable overall height for the device.

[0006] Due to its design, the center of gravity is located far forward at the forks of the forklift, resulting in a very low overall load.

[0007] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a tilting device for a lifting device, in particular for a forklift truck, which avoids the disadvantages of the aforementioned prior art. In particular, a cost-effective solution that is easy and quick to retrofit should be provided.

[0008] This problem is solved starting from a device according to the preamble of claim 1 in conjunction with the characterizing features. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the patent claims.

[0009] The invention provides a cost-effective, simple, and quickly retrofittable method for lifting and frontally emptying bulk material containers using a lifting device. The solution according to the invention features a low overall height, both in terms of the loading platform and the container itself, which allows vehicles to drive underneath it and enables its use even inside buildings.

[0010] According to the present invention, a tilting device for a lifting device, in particular a forklift truck, is provided for holding and tilting containers forwards, wherein the device has a base frame extending along a longitudinal axis with receptacles for tines of the lifting device and a tilting frame which is rotatably mounted at the front end of the base frame about a transverse axis and extends to the rear end of the base frame, wherein furthermore at least one actuator is provided which is connected at one end to the base frame and at the other end to the tilting frame, wherein lateral holding elements for holding a container are arranged on the tilting frame.

[0011] The proposed solution allows for the conversion of a forklift, for example, within a few minutes, as the forks remain attached to the lifting mechanism. Manufacturing and operating costs are low.

[0012] An advantageous embodiment of the invention provides for a first actuator that lifts the tilting frame to a tilting angle of 10° to 20°, preferably 15°, after which a second actuator lifts the tilting frame to a maximum tilting angle. The first actuator can, for example, project upwards at an angle of approximately 15° from the vertical, thus optimally acting at a point of application on the rear wall of the tilting frame. Both the first and second actuators can be subjected to pressure simultaneously. This has the advantage that the second actuator, acting at a shallow angle, can be designed with a lower lifting force, which reduces costs and keeps the overall height low. After reaching the first tilting angle of 10° to 20°, the second actuator engages fully and tilts the frame further to its final position.

[0013] Advantageously, the tipping device according to the invention allows for a maximum tipping angle of less than or equal to 100°, preferably less than or equal to 90°. This is possible, firstly, due to the kinematics of the tipping device, but also because the lateral retaining elements for holding the container hold and clamp the latter in such a way that it cannot detach from the tipping frame 3 even at a tipping angle of 100°.

[0014] According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the actuator is designed as a hydraulic cylinder, a rack, a spindle, or the like. The drive of the rack or spindle can be hydraulic or electric. Alternatively, the actuators could also be pneumatically actuated.

[0015] An advantageous embodiment of the present invention provides that the control unit for the tilting device can be connected to the operating elements of the lifting device. A further advantageous embodiment of the present invention provides that the control unit is hydraulic and / or electrical. This allows the tilting device to be connected directly to the control unit of the lifting device, generally without adapters or additional switches. This eliminates the need for a separate control unit for the tilting device, resulting in significant cost savings.

[0016] A particularly advantageous further development of the present invention provides that the lateral retaining elements are arranged to be displaceable in the transverse axis direction for holding a container on the tipping frame. Advantageously, the retaining elements engage from each side in corresponding projections or ribs provided on the container. These projections or ribs are either already present, depending on the container manufacturer, or can easily be retrofitted, for example, as a welded construction. In particular, such retaining elements prevent the container from being gripped from above.

[0017] A further advantageous embodiment of the present invention provides that retaining elements for attachment to the lifting device are provided on the base frame. These retaining elements prevent the tilting device from slipping off the tines of the lifting device. The retaining elements can be designed as hydraulic cylinders, manually inserted bolts, or similar components.

[0018] Finally, a further advantageous embodiment of the present invention provides that the base frame and the tilting frame are constructed of steel. This enables cost-effective manufacturing. Alternatively, other materials are also conceivable, for example, aluminum or composite construction.

[0019] A lifting device with a tilting mechanism according to the invention provides that a container can be tilted forward about its transverse axis for easy handling. This enables simple and quick unloading of bulk material containers, for example in the construction industry, recycling, waste disposal, or similar sectors. The rapid conversion process, typically within a few minutes (usually no more than five minutes), allows the lifting device to be used in multiple applications.

[0020] Further measures and embodiments that improve the invention are described in more detail below, together with a description of preferred embodiments of the invention, with reference to the figures.

[0021] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic side view of a forklift truck with an embodiment of a tipping device according to the invention and a container; Fig. 2 a schematic side view showing an embodiment of a tilting device according to the invention in a partially tilted position; Fig. 3 a schematic top view of an embodiment of a tipping device according to the invention in the retracted position with container; Fig. 4a a schematic longitudinal section of an embodiment of a tilting device according to the invention in a partially extended position; Fig. 4b a schematic longitudinal section of an embodiment of a tilting device according to the invention in the retracted position; Fig. 5a a schematic top view of an embodiment of a tilting device according to the invention in the retracted position with open retaining elements; Fig. 5b a schematic top view of an embodiment of a tilting device according to the invention in the retracted position with closed retaining elements; Fig. 6 a schematic hydraulic circuit diagram for an embodiment of a tilting device according to the invention.

[0022] Fig. Figure 1 shows the tilting device 1 according to the invention, which is lifted by a lifting device 110 of a forklift truck 100. The tilting device 1 has, as also shown in Figure 1, the tilting device 1 Fig. 2 to Fig. Figure 5 shows a substantially rectangular base frame 2, which has two parallel rectangular profiles 15, each with receptacles 4 arranged at the rear end of the base frame 2. The base frame 2 has a rear wall 13 at its rear end, which connects the two rectangular profiles 15 and projects vertically upwards. The hydraulic connections (not shown) are arranged on the rear wall 13 of the base frame. The tines of a forklift 100 are inserted into the two parallel rectangular profiles via the receptacles 4. The tines are locked to the base frame 2 by hydraulic fork holders arranged on each of the rectangular profiles 15.

[0023] At the front end of the base frame 2 of the tipping device 1, a rectangular tipping frame 3 is rotatably arranged about a transverse axis 5. The transverse axis 5 is connected to the front ends of the two rectangular profile tubes 15. On the tipping frame 3, which is in Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, shown in a partially extended position, is in Fig. Figure 1 shows a longitudinally arranged container 200, depicted with dashed lines, whose inclined front wall 210 points forward in the direction of travel F of the forklift 100. In the present embodiment, the container 200 has a capacity of approximately 0.85 m³. 3 up to 1 m 3 and a payload of approximately 1.5 to 2.0 tons.

[0024] In the present embodiment, the tilting frame 3 is actuated by a first actuator 6b, designed as a hydraulic cylinder, and a second actuator 6, also designed as a hydraulic cylinder. The first actuator 6b, which projects upwards at an angle, engages centrally with a projection 12a of the tilting frame 3 located at the upper end of the rear wall 12. The second actuator 6 is connected to the rear lower end of the tilting frame 3 via a first axis 7 and to the front third of the base frame via a second axis 8. In the present embodiment, the actuator 6 can be controlled via hydraulic connections (not shown) that are connected to the hydraulic control system of the forklift.

[0025] Furthermore, in the Fig. 1 to Fig. The tilting frame shown in Figure 5 is provided with 3 lateral retaining elements 9, which are arranged to be slidably in the transverse direction along a rail 10. The rail 10 is arranged on the transverse rear wall 12 of the tilting frame 3. The retaining elements 9 can be moved and held in place, for example, hydraulically by a double-acting hydraulic cylinder. Alternatively, the movement could be effected and locked by means of a spindle drive. The retaining elements 9 engage in the Fig. 1 to Fig. The retaining elements 9 shown in Figure 5, in their closed (i.e., inwardly shifted) state, are connected to vertically mounted webs 220 at the rear end of the container 200. The container 200 is thus held or clamped in place. The retaining elements 9 are U-shaped. After the container 200 is placed on the loading platform 11 of the tipping frame 3, the retaining elements 9 move in opposite directions from their open position along the rail 10 inwards until their U-shaped legs enclose the webs 220 welded vertically to the container 200. This secures the container 200 in the tipped state, i.e., when the tipping frame 3 is extended.

[0026] The tipping frame 3 can be pivoted around the transverse axis 5 to a tipping angle of approximately 100°, i.e., beyond the vertical position. This allows the container 200 to be completely emptied without it detaching from the tipping frame 3.

[0027] The tipping device 1 is designed such that a container 200 can be easily driven underneath it due to the low profile of the tipping device 1; that is, no additional loading aids are required to transfer the container 200 onto the loading platform 11 of the tipping frame 3. Additionally, a chamfer or bevel may be provided at the front end of the loading platform 11 in the transverse direction.

[0028] The tipping device 1 has a width and height that allows it to pass underneath the container 100, which stands on four feet 120. In the present embodiment, the tipping device 1 is approximately 60 cm to 70 cm wide and approximately 8 cm to 12 cm, preferably 10 cm, high at the loading platform 11.

[0029] Fig. 4a and Fig. Figures 4b each show a longitudinal section through the tilting device 1 according to the invention. Fig. Figure 4a shows the tipping device 1 in the partially extended state, in which the tipping frame 3 is tilted at approximately 45° to the base frame. Fig. Figure 4b shows the tipping device 1 in the retracted state, i.e. the tipping frame 3 rests on the base frame 2.

[0030] The steel structure of the base frame has two rectangular profile mounts 4, which are connected to each other via the transversely extending rear wall 13. The rear wall 13 is stiffened by longitudinally running diagonally downward stiffening plates 14.

[0031] At the front end, the two rectangular profile tubes 15 of the base frame 2 are connected to each other by the transverse axis 5. Furthermore, a front section of the tipping frame 3 is also rotatably mounted on the transverse axis 5.

[0032] Advantageously, approximately 10% to 15% of the length of the tipping frame 3 projects beyond the base frame 2 at its front end. This positions the pivot point closer to the center of gravity of the loaded container 100, thereby reducing the force required by the first actuator 6b and the second actuator 6. Consequently, the overall height and diameter, particularly of the hydraulic cylinder of the second actuator 6, can be significantly reduced. This enables the low overall height of the tipping device required to pass under the container 100, which is supported by legs.

[0033] The tilting frame 3 is first lifted by a first hydraulic actuator 6b, whose hydraulic cylinder is arranged on the rear cross member of the base frame and whose hydraulic rod engages a projection 12a located at the upper end of the rear wall 12.

[0034] The first hydraulic actuator 6b raises the tipping frame 3 to a tipping angle of approximately 15°. The tipping frame 3 is then further deflected by the hydraulic actuator 6, which is attached to the base frame 2 on a first axle 7 and to the rear end of the tipping frame 3 on a second axle 8.

[0035] Finally, the tilting frame 3 has a rear wall 12 with a rail 10 at its rear end. Lateral retaining elements 9 are arranged to slide along the rail 10.

[0036] Fig. 5a and Fig. Figures 5b each show a schematic top view of the tilting device 1 according to the invention in the retracted position. The following are shown in Fig. 5a the retaining elements 9 in the open position, i.e., each shifted outwards on the rail 10 and in Fig. 5b the retaining elements 9 are shown in the closed position, i.e., moved inwards on the rail 10.

[0037] Furthermore, the loading platform 11 of the tipping frame 3 is visible in the top view. The loading platform can be a solid surface or a mesh surface, the overall height of which allows a container to be driven underneath. The second actuator 6 is shown in the central rectangular opening, which is rotatably mounted at its front end on the base frame 2 via the axis 8. The double-acting hydraulic cylinder 22, which opens and closes the retaining elements 9, is also shown on the rear wall 12 of the tipping frame.

[0038] In the present embodiment, the hydraulic cylinder 22 can have a stroke of approximately 30 cm, while the second actuator 6 can have a stroke of approximately 50 cm.

[0039] Fig. Figure 6 shows a schematic hydraulic circuit diagram for a tilting device 1 according to the embodiment described above.

[0040] The conversion of a 100mm forklift is carried out in just a few minutes by attaching the tilting device 1 with the forks that are standardly arranged on the 100mm forklift, which then engage in the receptacles 4 of the base frame 2. Next, the hydraulics of the tilting device 1 are connected to the forklift's hydraulics and controlled via the hydraulic couplings A and B, and the electrical connection for the electromagnetic changeover valve 24 is made. Finally, the tilting device 1 is locked to both forks of the forklift by actuating the 6-way changeover valve 23 via two fork clamping cylinders or fork holders 21, which are designed as hydraulic cylinders.

[0041] Only after the tipping device is locked onto the two forks do the check valves 25 allow the retaining elements 9 to move in opposite directions along the rail by the hydraulic cylinder 22, which is controlled by the electromagnetic changeover valve 24. This causes the left and right webs 220 of the container 200 to be enclosed and held by the retaining elements 9. Only now can tipping be initiated by actuating the first actuator 6b and the second actuator 6, as the check valves 25 prevent any prior tipping. Additionally, a magnetic switch prevents the retaining elements from opening when the container is tipped.

[0042] Disassembly is also carried out in the reverse direction and in a very short time. The retaining elements 9 are only opened after the electromagnetic switching valve 24 has been actuated to ensure that the container 200 is lowered and not tilted. This creates a fail-safe design.

[0043] The invention is not limited in its implementation to the preferred embodiment described above. Rather, a number of variants are conceivable, which utilize the illustrated solution even in fundamentally different designs. For example, two second actuators could be provided parallel to each other, thereby doubling the force despite the low overall height. This would eliminate the need for the first actuator. Different dimensions of the tilting device are also possible depending on the type of container and the lifting device. A design with rack and pinion and / or spindle drive instead of, or in combination with, hydraulic actuators is also possible. Reference symbol list 1 tilting device 2 basic frames 3 tilting frames 4 recording 5 Transverse axis 6 second actuator 6b first actuator 7 first axis 8 second axis 9 retaining element 10 rail 11 Loading area 12 Back panel 13 Back panel 14 Stiffening plate 15 rectangular profile tubes 21 clamping cylinders 22 double-acting holding cylinder 23 6-way diverter valve 24 electromagnetic switching valve 25 Check valve 100 forklifts 110 Lifting device 120 feet 200 containers 210 Front wall 220 Steg F Direction of travel QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DD 210889 B1

[0003] DE 102006014213 A1

[0004] DE 3709099 A1

[0005]

Claims

[1] Tipping device (1) for a lifting device (110), in particular a forklift truck (100), for holding and tipping containers (200) from the front, wherein the device has a base frame (2) extending along a longitudinal axis with receptacles (4) for tines of the lifting device (100) and a tipping frame (3) which is rotatably mounted at the front end of the base frame (2) about a transverse axis (5) and extends to the rear end of the base frame (2), wherein at least one actuator (6) is provided which is connected at one end to the base frame (2) and at the other end to the tipping frame (3), wherein lateral retaining elements (9) for holding a container (200) are arranged on the tipping frame (3). [2] Tilting device according to claim 1, wherein a first actuator is provided which raises the tilting frame to a tilting angle of 10° to 20°, preferably 15°, after which a second actuator raises the tilting frame to a maximum tilting angle. [3] Tilting device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the maximum tilting angle is less than or equal to 100°, preferably less than or equal to 90°. [4] Tilting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one actuator is designed as a hydraulic cylinder, as a rack, as a spindle, or the like. [5] Tilting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control of the tilting device can be connected to the operating elements of the lifting device. [6] Tilting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control is hydraulic and / or electrical. [7] Tipping device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral retaining elements are arranged to be displaceable in the transverse axis direction for holding a container on the tipping frame. [8] Tilting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein retaining elements for attachment to the lifting device are provided on the base frame. [9] Tilting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base frame and the tilting frame are designed as a steel construction. [10] Lifting device with tilting device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a container can be tilted forward about its transverse axis.

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