CABINET, ESPECIALLY ELECTRICAL CONTROL CABINET

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a cabinet, in particular an electrical cabinet.

[0002] Cabinets are used in many applications to house a large number of objects or devices. In particular, cabinets called "electrical cabinets" are designed to house electrical devices such as batteries, contactors, circuit breakers, or even monitoring devices for an electrical installation.

[0003] Cabinets are often made by assembling a set of panels, also called "plates" or "frames," onto a frame, particularly a metal frame, comprising a set of profiles connected to each other. The panels thus close the openings defined by the frame and separate the interior of the cabinet from the exterior, in particular to electrically isolate the various objects or devices housed in the cabinet from the exterior, or to prevent unauthorized access to these objects or devices. The frame forms a support for the panels, ensuring their position and, more generally, the structural integrity of the cabinet. The panels are in most cases screwed onto the frame to ensure a solid fixing, particularly in cases where the objects or devices contained in the cabinet are suspended from the various panels.

[0004] However, fixing the panels to the frame generally requires the participation of two operators, one of them holding each panel in position while the other screws the panel to the frame.

[0005] In other cases, systems exist that allow a single operator to assemble the cabinet, but they significantly complicate the cabinet since complex mechanisms are provided to hold the panels in position while they are screwed onto the frame.

[0006] There is therefore a need for a cabinet, particularly an electrical cabinet, which does not require the presence of two operators to assemble it, and which is simpler than state-of-the-art cabinets.

[0007] Documents EP0901207A1 and US1027701482 describe two electrical cabinets in which a panel is fixed to a frame and held in place by a locking element which elastically deforms in a bending movement during installation of the panel. Documents DE102012007771A1 and DE9307113U1 show two electrical cabinets in which a panel is fixed to a frame and held in place by a locking element which pivots between locking and unlocking positions.

[0008] For this purpose, a cabinet, in particular an electrical cabinet, is proposed, comprising a frame and at least one panel intended to be fixed to the frame in a position of use, the frame comprising an upper part and a lower part, the panel having a lower end and an upper end delimiting the panel in a vertical direction of the cabinet when the panel is in the position of use, a first direction and a second direction being defined, the first and second directions being perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the vertical direction, the panel being perpendicular to the first direction when the panel is in the position of use, the cabinet further comprising at least one upper fitting and one lower fitting, the upper fitting being fixed to the upper part of the frame, the lower fitting being fixed to the lower part of the frame,the lower end of the panel in the use position resting on the lower fitting, the lower fitting being configured to prevent movement of the lower end in the first direction relative to the frame, the cabinet comprising at least one locking element carried by the upper fitting and movable relative to the upper fitting between an unlocked position and a locking position, the locking element being configured to prevent movement of the upper end in the first direction relative to the frame when the locking element is in the locking position and the panel is in the use position, and to allow movement of the upper end in the first direction relative to the frame when the locking element is in the unlocked position.,

[0009] According to the invention, the locking element is movable in translation relative to the upper fitting between the locking position and the unlocked position and the locking element comprises holding means configured to cooperate with complementary means of the upper fitting to hold the locking element in the unlocked position, the holding means being in particular snap-fastening holding means.

[0010] According to advantageous but non-mandatory embodiments, the cabinet has one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation or in all technically possible combinations: the panel is configured to be fixed to the upper fitting and to the lower fitting, in particular by screwing, when the panel is in the position of use. the upper fitting comprises a rear portion against which the panel rests when the panel is in the position of use, the upper end being interposed in the first direction between the rear portion and the locking element when the panel is in the position of use and the locking element is in the locking position. at least one fitting comprises a first projection engaged in a corresponding first opening of the frame, the first projection being configured to prevent translation of the fitting in the vertical direction when the first projection is engaged in the first opening. each upper or lower fitting is in one piece.the lower fitting has a second projection, the second projection being engaged in a second opening of the panel to prevent movement of the lower end in the first direction relative to the frame when the panel is in the use position.

[0011] The cabinet further comprises a rotation element interposed between the lower part of the frame and the lower end, the rotation element being integral with the lower end and comprising a rolling face configured to roll on a face of the lower part when the panel pivots about an axis parallel to the second direction towards the position of use. the lower part of the frame comprises a guide extending in the first direction, the guide being configured so that the rotation element rolls on the guide during the pivoting of the panel. the rotation element further comprises a bearing face configured to come into contact with a face of the guide to prevent movement of the rotation element in the second direction during pivoting.

[0012] Characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the appended drawings, in which: [ Fig 1 ] there figure 1 is a partial perspective view of an example of a cabinet according to the invention, comprising a frame and at least one panel, [ Fig 2 ] there figure 2 is a partial perspective view of the panel of the figure 1 , [ Fig 3 ] there figure 3 is an enlarged partial perspective view of Zone III of the figure 1 , comprising a lower fitting and a rotating element, [ Fig 4 ] the figure is another enlarged partial perspective view of the cabinet figure 1 , showing the lower fitting and the rotating element from another angle, [ Fig 5 ] there figure 5 is a perspective view of the lower fitting, [ Fig 6 ] there figure 6 is an enlarged partial perspective view of Zone VI of the figure 1 , comprising an upper fitting and a movable locking element, [ Fig 7 ] there figure 6 is a partial perspective view similar to the figure 6 , the locking element being in a different position, [ Fig 8 ] there figure 8 is a perspective view of the upper fitting, [ Fig 9 ] there figure 9 is an enlarged view of the locking element of the figure 7 , this locking element being shown partially in section, and [ Fig 10 ] there figure 10 is a perspective view of the rotating element of the figure 3 .

[0013] An example of cabinet 10 is partially shown in the figure 1 .

[0014] The cabinet 10 comprises a frame 15, at least one panel 20, for example a plurality of panels 20, at least one lower fitting 25, at least one upper fitting 30, at least one locking element 35 and optionally at least one rotation element 40. On the figure 1 , three panels 20 and a door 42 are represented.

[0015] The cabinet 10 is for example an electrical cabinet intended to accommodate electrical devices such as switches, contactors, circuit breakers, batteries, or even monitoring devices for an electrical network. In particular, the electrical device(s) is (are) intended to be fixed, in particular suspended, to a panel 20.

[0016] A first direction X, a second direction Y and a vertical direction Z are defined for the cabinet 10.

[0017] The first X direction is perpendicular to the second Y direction and the vertical Z direction. The second Y direction is perpendicular to the vertical Z direction.

[0018] The vertical direction Z is a vertical direction when the cabinet 10 is in use, in particular when the cabinet 10 is placed on a horizontal floor. In this case, the X and Y directions define a horizontal plane.

[0019] The frame 15 is configured to support each panel 20 when each panel 20 is in a use position. The use position of each panel 20 is the position in which the panel 20 is located when the cabinet 10 is complete.

[0020] The frame 15 is, for example, made of a metallic material such as steel or aluminum.

[0021] The frame 15 comprises a lower part 45, an upper part 50 and an intermediate part 55.

[0022] The lower part 45 comprises four lower beams 60 and, optionally, at least one guide 65, for example two guides 65.

[0023] The lower beams 60 are fixed to each other at their ends, for example via corner members 70, to form a rectangular frame, for example a square frame.

[0024] Two of the lower beams 60 extend in the first direction X and two of the lower beams 60 extend in the second direction Y.

[0025] Each lower beam 60 has an upper face 75, this upper face 75 being for example perpendicular to the vertical direction Z.

[0026] Each lower beam 60 further has an internal face 80 directed towards the interior of the cabinet 10. The internal face 80 is, for example, vertical, in particular perpendicular to the second direction Y when the lower beam 60 considered extends in the direction X, or perpendicular to the first direction X when the lower beam 60 considered extends in the direction Y.

[0027] Each lower beam 60 is, for example, a profile formed by folding a metal plate around an axis parallel to the direction of extension X or Y of the lower beam 60.

[0028] At least one of the inner face 80 and the upper face 75, for example each face among the inner face 80 and the upper face 75, comprises for example a set of orifices 85 and a set of first openings 90.

[0029] The orifices 85 are, for example, arranged successively along a line parallel to the X or Y direction in which the lower beam 60 in question extends. A distance, in the X or Y direction in which the lower beam 60 in question extends, between two successive orifices 85 is, for example, between 12.5 millimeters (mm) and 50 mm.

[0030] The first openings 90 are, for example, arranged successively along a line parallel to the X or Y direction along which the lower beam 60 in question extends. A distance, along the X or Y direction along which the lower beam 60 in question extends, between two successive first openings 90 is, for example, between 12.5 mm and 50 mm.

[0031] Each first opening 90 is, for example, polygonal, in particular rectangular, in particular square. In the latter case, the length of each side of the first opening 90 is between 10 mm and 15 mm.

[0032] Each corner element 70 of the lower part 45 is, for example, fixed to two of the lower beams 60, these two lower beams 60 extending in directions X and Y perpendicular to each other.

[0033] Each guide 65 extends in the first direction X. In particular, each guide 65 extends between two lower beams 60 to which the guide 65 is fixed, these two lower beams 60 each extending in the second direction Y.

[0034] Each guide 65 has, for example, a rectangular or square section in a plane perpendicular to the first direction X.

[0035] Each guide 65 has an upper face 95. The upper face 95 is, for example, perpendicular to the vertical direction Z. In particular, the upper face 95 is level with the upper face 75 of each lower beam 60.

[0036] Each guide 65 has at least one lateral face 100, in particular two lateral faces 100 delimiting the guide 65 in the second direction Y. Each lateral face 100 of the guide 65 is, for example, perpendicular to the second direction Y.

[0037] A length of each guide 65 is, for example, between 300 mm and 1200 mm.

[0038] Each guide 65 extends in particular in the X direction between two lower beams 60 each extending in the Y direction, and is fixed to these two beams 60.

[0039] The upper part 50 comprises four upper beams 105.

[0040] The upper beams 105 are fixed to each other at their ends, for example via corner members 70, to form a rectangular frame, for example a square frame.

[0041] Two of the upper beams 105 extend in the first direction X and two of the upper beams 105 extend in the second direction Y.

[0042] Each upper beam 105 has a lower face 110, this lower face 110 being for example perpendicular to the vertical direction Z.

[0043] Each upper beam 105 further has an internal face 115 directed towards the interior of the cabinet 10. The internal face 115 is, for example, vertical, in particular perpendicular to the second direction Y, in particular perpendicular to the second direction Y when the upper beam 105 considered extends in the direction X, or perpendicular to the first direction X when the upper beam 105 considered extends in the direction Y.

[0044] Each upper beam 105 is, for example, a profile formed by folding a metal plate around an axis parallel to the direction of extension X or Y of the upper beam 105.

[0045] At least one of the inner face 115 and the lower face 110, for example each face among the inner face 115 and the lower face 110, comprises for example a set of orifices 85 and a set of first openings 90, these orifices and openings being for example identical to the orifices and openings 85, 90 of the lower beams 60.

[0046] Each corner element 70 of the upper part 50 is, for example, fixed to two of the upper beams 105, these two upper beams 105 extending in directions X and Y perpendicular to each other.

[0047] The intermediate portion 55 is interposed between the lower portion 45 and the upper portion 50. In particular, the intermediate portion 45 is supported by the lower portion 45 and supports the upper portion 50.

[0048] The intermediate part 55 comprises, for example, a set of pillars 120, in particular four pillars 120.

[0049] Each pillar 120 extends in the vertical direction Z between the lower part 45 and the upper part 50. For example, each pillar 120 is fixed at one of its ends to a corner element 70 of the upper part 50 and to a corner element 70 of the lower part 45.

[0050] It should be noted that the panels 20 are frequently referred to as “chassis”, particularly when the cabinet 10 is intended for devices to be suspended from the panels 20. The terms “panel”, “chassis” and “plate” are then generally considered interchangeable.

[0051] Each panel 20 is made of a metallic material, for example galvanized steel.

[0052] Each panel 20 is, for example, a single piece.

[0053] Each panel 20 is, for example, rectangular, or even square.

[0054] Each panel 20 comprises, for example, a main portion 125, two end portions 130, two side portions 135 and two rear portions 140, visible on the figure 2 .

[0055] Each panel 20 has an upper end 145 and a lower end 150.

[0056] When the panel 20 is in its position of use, the panel 20 is received in a frame formed by a lower beam 60 extending in the second direction Y, by an upper beam 105 extending in the second direction Y and by two pillars 120 connecting two by two the ends of the lower beam 60 and the upper beam 105.

[0057] The main portion 125, the end portions 130, the side portions 135 and the rear portions 140 are for example made of one material between them. In particular, the main portion 125, the end portions 130, the side portions 135 and the rear portions 140 are formed by folding a single sheet of the material constituting the panel 20.

[0058] When the panel 20 is in its position of use, the main portion 125 separates the interior of the cabinet 10 from the exterior of the cabinet 10. In particular, the main portion 125 is configured to close the frame in which the panel 20 is accommodated.

[0059] A height of the main portion 125, measured along the vertical direction Z when the panel 20 is in the position of use, is for example between 1000 mm and 2200 mm.

[0060] A width of the main portion 125, measured along the second direction Y when the panel 20 is in the position of use, is for example between 300 mm and 1600 mm.

[0061] Each main portion 125 comprises, for example, at least one hole 152 passing through the main portion 125 in the main direction X, for example four holes 152.

[0062] Each hole 152 has, for example, a diameter between 20 mm and 25 mm.

[0063] Each end portion 130 is arranged at one end 145, 150 of the panel 20.

[0064] Each end portion 130 extends, from the corresponding end 145, 150 of the main portion 125, in the first direction X. Each end portion 130 is, for example, perpendicular to the vertical direction Z.

[0065] The main portion 125 is interposed in the vertical direction Z between the two end portions 130.

[0066] Each end portion 130 is, for example, rectangular.

[0067] A length of each end portion 130, measured along the first direction X, is for example between 20 mm and 25 mm.

[0068] A width of each end portion 130, measured along the second direction Y when the panel 20 is in the position of use, is for example between 250 mm and 1550 mm. In particular, the width of the end portion 130 is equal to the width of the main portion 125.

[0069] Each end portion 130 comprises, for example, at least one second opening 155, in particular two second openings 155.

[0070] Each second opening 155 is, for example, square or rectangular, the length of the sides being for example between 10 mm and 25 mm. According to one embodiment, two of the sides of the second opening 155 measure 10 mm, and the other two sides measure between 15 mm and 25 mm.

[0071] Each lateral portion 135 extends along the main portion 125 in the vertical direction Z. For example, a length of each lateral portion 135, measured in the vertical direction Z, is between 950 mm and 2150 mm. In particular, the length of the lateral portion 135 is equal to the height of the main portion 125.

[0072] Each lateral portion 135 extends from the main portion 125 in the first direction X. Each lateral portion 135 is in particular perpendicular to the main portion 125.

[0073] The main portion 125 is interposed along the second direction Y between the two lateral portions 135.

[0074] Each lateral portion 135 is, for example, rectangular.

[0075] A width of each lateral portion 135, measured along the first direction X, is for example between 20 mm and 30 mm.

[0076] Each rear portion 140 is perpendicular to the main direction X.

[0077] Each rear portion 140 extends in a plane perpendicular to the main direction X from a corresponding lateral portion 135. In particular, the lateral portion 135 is interposed along the first direction X between the corresponding rear portion 140 and the main portion 125.

[0078] Each rear portion 140 is, in particular, crossed by a hole 160 arranged opposite each hole 152 of the main portion 125.

[0079] The lower fittings 25 are, for example, two in number for each panel 20 of the cabinet 10.

[0080] Each lower fitting 25 is fixed to the lower part 45 of the frame 15, as visible in the figure 3 . For example, each lower fitting 25 is arranged in a corner of the frame 15. In particular, each lower fitting 25 is in contact with two lower beams 60 forming a right angle with each other.

[0081] Among these two lower beams 60, the lower beam 60 extending in the second direction Y is called “first lower beam 60”, the lower beam 60 extending in the first direction X is called “second lower beam 60”.

[0082] The first lower beam 60 is arranged immediately below the panel 20 when the panel 20 is in its position of use. In particular, the first lower beam 60 and the panel 20 are superimposed when the panel 20 is in its position of use. In particular, a projection of the panel 20 and a projection of the first lower beam 60 on the same horizontal plane are at least partially merged, i.e. are not disjointed.

[0083] A lower fitting 25 is in particular arranged at each end of the first lower beam 60. Each lower fitting 25 is then, for example, symmetrical with respect to a vertical plane parallel to the first direction X of the other lower fitting 25 arranged at the other end. These two lower fittings 25 are in particular mirror images of each other.

[0084] Each lower fitting 25 is configured to support the panel 20, in particular to support the lower end 145 of the corresponding panel 20 when the panel 20 is in its position of use. In other words, the lower end 145 of the panel 20 rests on the lower fitting 25 when the panel 20 is in its position of use.

[0085] In particular, when the panel 20 is in its position of use, the lower end 145 bears against each corresponding lower fitting 25. In particular, one of the end portions 130 bears against the lower fitting 25.

[0086] Each lower fitting 25 is, for example, made of a metallic material such as steel.

[0087] Each lower fitting 25 is, for example, a single piece. In particular, each lower fitting 25 is obtained by folding and cutting a single plate. A thickness of the plate from which the lower fitting 25 is formed is, for example, between 2 mm and 4 mm.

[0088] Each lower fitting 25 is configured to prevent movement of the lower portion 145 of the corresponding panel 20 in the first direction X relative to the lower fitting 25 when the panel 20 is in its position of use.

[0089] For example, the lower fitting 25 comprises a first projection 165 extending in the vertical direction Z, visible in the figure 4 , and intended to be engaged in an opening 155 of the panel 20 when the panel 20 is in its position of use.

[0090] Alternatively, the lower end 145 is inserted in the first direction X between two portions of the lower fitting 25.

[0091] The first projection 165 has a height, measured in the vertical direction Z, of for example between 8 mm and 11 mm.

[0092] A lower fitting 25 is shown alone on the figure 5 Each lower fitting 25 comprises, for example, a first support portion 170, a first rear portion 175, a first intermediate portion 180 and a first fixing portion 185.

[0093] The first support portion 170 is interposed between the lower end 145 and the first lower beam 60.

[0094] The first support portion 170 is, for example, perpendicular to the vertical direction Z.

[0095] The first support portion 170 is, for example, rectangular. The first support portion 170 has a length, measured along the first direction X, of between 20 mm and 35 mm. The first support portion 170 has a width, measured along the second direction Y, of between 25 mm and 50 mm.

[0096] The first projection 165 extends towards the upper part 50 of the frame 15 from the first support portion 170. The first projection 165 is, for example, formed by cutting and folding a part of the first support portion 170.

[0097] The first rear portion 175 extends in the vertical direction Z from the first support portion 170.

[0098] The first rear portion 175 bears against a corresponding rear portion 140 of the panel 20.

[0099] The first rear portion 175 comprises a hole 190 passing through the first rear portion 175 in the main direction X. The hole 190 is arranged opposite the hole 152. Furthermore, the hole 190 is arranged opposite the hole 160 of the rear portion 140 which bears against the first rear portion 175.

[0100] In particular, holes 160, 152 and 190 are aligned with each other along the first direction X.

[0101] The holes 160, 152 and 190 are configured to allow a screw to be inserted through the hole 152 from inside the cabinet 10 to secure the rear portion 140 of the panel 20 to the first rear portion 175. When the rear portion 140 of the panel 20 is secured to the first rear portion 175, the screw passes jointly through the rear portion 140 of the panel 20 and the first rear portion 175. For example, the head of the screw bears against the rear portion 140 of the panel 20 and is screwed to a nut bearing against the first rear portion 175 of the bracket 25.

[0102] The hole 190 is, for example, rectangular. According to one embodiment, two of the sides of the hole 190 measure 15 mm, and the other two sides measure 12 mm.

[0103] The first intermediate portion 180 extends from the first support portion 175 in the vertical direction Z. In particular, the first intermediate portion 180 extends from the first support portion 175 in a direction opposite to the first rear portion 175, therefore opposite the lower part 45 of the frame. In other words, the first intermediate portion 180 extends from the first support portion 175 downwards in the vertical direction Z.

[0104] The first support portion 170 is interposed in the first direction X between the first intermediate portion 180 and the first rear portion 175.

[0105] The first intermediate portion 180 is, for example, supported against the internal face 80 of the first lower beam 60.

[0106] The first fixing portion 185 extends in the first direction X from the first intermediate portion 180.

[0107] The first fixing portion 185 is, for example, rectangular. The first fixing portion 185 has a length, measured along the first direction X, of between 50 mm and 70 mm. The first fixing portion 185 has a height, measured along the vertical direction Z, of between 35 mm and 45 mm.

[0108] The first fixing portion 185 bears against the second lower beam 60, in particular against the internal face 80 of the second lower beam 60.

[0109] The first fixing portion 185 comprises, for example, at least one hole 195, for example a plurality of holes 195, and a second projection 200.

[0110] Each hole 195 is configured to cooperate with an orifice 85 of the internal face 80 of the second lower beam 60 to allow the lower fitting 25 to be fixed to the lower part 45 of the frame 15. In particular, each hole 195 is configured to allow a screw to jointly pass through the hole 195 and the corresponding orifice 85 to fix the lower fitting 25 to the second lower beam 60.

[0111] The holes 195 of the first fixing portion 185 are, for example, three in number, however this number is likely to vary.

[0112] The second projection 200 is engaged in a first opening 90 of the internal face 80 of the second lower beam 60.

[0113] The second projection 200 is configured to prevent translation of the lower fitting 25 relative to the frame 15 in the vertical direction Z when the second projection 200 is engaged in the corresponding first opening 90.

[0114] The second projection 200 is for example made in one piece with the first fixing portion 185, being produced in particular by cutting and folding a part of the first fixing portion 185.

[0115] The second projection 200 is, for example, a hook intended to grip a part of the second lower beam 60 between the projection 200 and the first fixing portion 185.

[0116] The upper fittings 30 are, for example, two in number for each panel 20 of the cabinet 10.

[0117] Each upper fitting 30 is fixed to the upper fitting 50 of the frame 15, as visible in the figure 6 . For example, each upper fitting 30 is arranged in a corner of the frame 15. In particular, each upper fitting 30 is in contact with two upper beams 105 forming a right angle with each other.

[0118] Among these two upper beams 105, the upper beam 105 extending in the second direction Y is called “first upper beam 105”, the upper beam 105 extending in the first direction X is called “second upper beam 105”.

[0119] The first upper beam 105 is arranged immediately above the panel 20 when the panel 20 is in its position of use. In particular, the first upper beam 105 and the panel 20 are superimposed when the panel 20 is in its position of use. In particular, a projection of the panel 20 and a projection of the first upper beam 105 on the same horizontal plane are at least partially merged, i.e. are not disjointed.

[0120] In other words, the panel 20 is interposed in the vertical direction Z between the first upper beam 105 and the first lower beam 60.

[0121] An upper fitting 30 is in particular arranged at each end of the first upper beam 105. Each upper fitting 30 is then, for example, symmetrical with respect to a vertical plane parallel to the first direction X of the upper fitting 30 arranged at the other end. These two upper fittings 30 are in particular mirror images of each other.

[0122] It should be noted that the upper fittings 30 can be mounted at any point of the first upper beam 105.

[0123] Each upper fitting 30 is configured to support a corresponding locking element 35. In particular, each upper fitting 30 is configured to allow movement of the corresponding locking element 35 between an unlocked position visible on the figure 6 and a visible locking position on the figure 7 .

[0124] The upper fitting 30, with the corresponding locking element 35 in its locking position, are shown alone in the figure 8 . It should be noted that the upper fitting 30 shown on the figure 8 is a mirror image of the upper fitting 30 shown in the figures 6 And 7 , however these two upper fittings 30 are, except for their symmetry relationship, identical to each other.

[0125] The upper fitting 30 comprises a horizontal portion 205, a second rear portion 210, a second intermediate portion 215 and a second fixing portion 220.

[0126] The horizontal portion 205 is interposed between the upper end 150 of the panel 20 and the first upper beam 105.

[0127] The horizontal portion 205 is, for example, perpendicular to the vertical direction Z.

[0128] The horizontal portion 205 is, for example, rectangular. The horizontal portion 205 has a length, measured along the first direction X, of between 20 mm and 35 mm. The second support portion 205 has a width, measured along the second direction Y, of between 25 mm and 50 mm.

[0129] The second rear portion 210 extends in the vertical direction Z from the horizontal portion 205.

[0130] The second rear portion 210 bears against a corresponding rear portion 140 of the panel 20.

[0131] The second rear portion 210 comprises a hole 225 passing through the second rear portion 210 in the main direction X. The hole 225 is arranged opposite a hole 152 in the panel 20. Furthermore, the hole 225 is arranged opposite a hole 160 in the rear portion 140 which bears against the second rear portion 210. In particular, the holes 160, 152 and 225 considered are aligned with each other along the first direction X.

[0132] The holes 160, 152 and 225 are configured to allow a screw to be inserted through the hole 152 from inside the cabinet 10 to secure the rear portion 140 of the panel 20 to the second rear portion 210. When the rear portion 140 of the panel 20 is secured to the second rear portion 210, the screw passes jointly through the rear portion 140 of the panel 20 and the second rear portion 210.

[0133] The hole 225 is, for example, rectangular. According to one embodiment, two of the sides of the hole 225 measure 15 mm, and the other two sides measure 12 mm.

[0134] The second intermediate portion 215 extends from the horizontal portion 205 in the vertical direction Z. In particular, the second intermediate portion 215 extends from the horizontal portion 205 in a direction opposite to the second rear portion 210, therefore opposite the lower part 45 of the frame. In other words, the second intermediate portion 215 extends from the horizontal portion upwards in the vertical direction Z.

[0135] The horizontal portion 205 is interposed along the first direction X between the second intermediate portion 215 and the second rear portion 210.

[0136] A distance, along the first direction X, between the second intermediate portion 215 and the internal face 80 of the first lower beam 105 is, for example, between 0 mm and 4 mm.

[0137] The second intermediate portion 215 is configured to accommodate the locking element 35. The second intermediate portion 215 is, for example, configured to guide the locking element 35 during the movement of the locking element 35 between its locking position and its unlocked position.

[0138] The second intermediate portion 215 comprises, for example, a slot 240 extending in the vertical direction Z and passing through the second intermediate portion 215 in the first direction X.

[0139] A length, measured along the vertical direction Z, of the slot 240 is, for example, between 29 mm and 32 mm. A width, measured along the second direction Y, of the slot 240 is, for example, between 10 mm and 16 mm.

[0140] The slot 240 is configured to guide the locking element 35 in translation in the vertical direction Z.

[0141] The slot 240 is delimited along the second direction Y by two end faces 245.

[0142] At least one end face 245, for example each end face, comprises at least one fourth projection 250, for example two fourth projections 250.

[0143] Each fourth projection 250 has a length, measured along the second direction Y, of, for example, between 1 mm and 5 mm.

[0144] Each fourth projection 250 is configured to cooperate with the locking member 35 to maintain the locking member 35 in the locking position or in the unlocked position, as will appear hereinafter.

[0145] The second fixing portion 220 extends in the first direction X from the second intermediate portion 215.

[0146] The second fixing portion 220 is, for example, rectangular. The second fixing portion 220 has a length, measured along the first direction X, of between 50 mm and 70 mm. The second fixing portion 220 has a height, measured along the vertical direction Z, of between 35 mm and 45 mm.

[0147] The second fixing portion 220 bears against the second upper beam 105, in particular against the internal face 115 of the second upper beam 105.

[0148] The second fixing portion 220 comprises, for example, at least one hole 230, for example a plurality of holes 230, and a third projection 235.

[0149] Each hole 230 is configured to cooperate with an orifice 85 of the internal face 115 of the second upper beam 105 to allow the upper fitting 30 to be fixed to the upper part 50 of the frame 15. In particular, each hole 230 is configured to allow a screw to jointly pass through the hole 230 and the corresponding orifice 85 to fix the upper fitting 30 to the second upper beam 105.

[0150] The third projection 235 is engaged in a first opening 90 of the internal face 115 of the second upper beam 105.

[0151] The third projection 235 is configured to prevent translation of the upper fitting 30 relative to the frame 15 in the vertical direction Z when the third projection 235 is engaged in the corresponding first opening 90.

[0152] The third projection 235 is for example integral with the second fixing portion 220, being produced in particular by cutting and folding a part of the second fixing portion 220.

[0153] The third projection 235 is, for example, a hook intended to grip a part of the second upper beam 105 between the projection 235 and the second fixing portion 220.

[0154] Each locking element 35 is movable relative to the corresponding upper fitting 30 between the corresponding locking position and the unlocked position. According to the invention, each locking element 35 is movable in translation, in particular in the vertical direction Z, between the locking position and the unlocked position.

[0155] Each locking element 35 is configured to, when the locking element 35 is in the locking position, prevent movement of the upper end 150 of the panel in the first direction X relative to the frame 15.

[0156] In particular, when the locking element 35 is in the locking position, the upper end 150 is interposed between the locking element 35 and the second rear portion 210. For example, when the locking element 35 is in the locking position, the locking element 35 projects from the horizontal portion 205, in the vertical direction Z, over a distance of between 10 mm and 20 mm.

[0157] A distance between the locked position and the unlocked position is, for example, between 8 mm and 20 mm.

[0158] When the locking element 35 is in the unlocked position, the locking element 35 allows movement of the upper end 150 of the panel in the first direction X relative to the frame 15.

[0159] For example, when the locking element 35 is in the unlocked position, the locking element 35 does not protrude in the vertical direction Z relative to the horizontal portion 205. Thus, when the locking element 35 is in the unlocked position, the upper end 150 is not interposed between the locking element 35 and the second rear portion 210.

[0160] The locking element 35 is shown in detail in the figure 9 .

[0161] The locking element 35 comprises, for example, a gripping portion 255, a first guide portion 260, a second guide portion 265 and means 270 for holding the locking element 35.

[0162] The locking element 35 is, for example, a single piece. In other words, the gripping portion 255, the first guide portion 260, the second guide portion 265 and the means 270 for holding the locking element 35 are integral with each other.

[0163] The locking element 35 is made of a plastic material, for example polyamide, in particular polyamide loaded with polypropylene.

[0164] The gripping portion 255 is configured to allow an operator to move the locking member 35 between the corresponding locked position and unlocked position.

[0165] The gripping portion 255 projects in the first direction X from the first guide portion 260.

[0166] The first guide portion 260 is configured to bear against the second intermediate portion 215, in particular against the face of the second intermediate portion 215 which is directed towards the interior of the cabinet 10, therefore opposite the first upper beam 105.

[0167] For example, the first guide portion 260 has a flat face bearing against the second intermediate portion 215.

[0168] The second guide portion 265 is configured to bear against the second intermediate portion 215, in particular against the face of the second intermediate portion 215 which is directed towards the outside of the cabinet 10, therefore towards the first upper beam 105.

[0169] For example, the second guide portion 265 has a flat face bearing against the second intermediate portion 215.

[0170] In particular, the second intermediate portion 215 is interposed between the two guide portions 260, 265.

[0171] Each guide portion 260, 265 has, for example, in the second direction Y, a width strictly greater than the width of the slot 240. Thus, the guide portions 260, 265 oppose a movement of the locking element 35 in the first direction X relative to the upper fitting 30.

[0172] The guide portions 260, 265 are, for example, connected and secured to one another by portions of the locking element 35 extending in the first direction X through the slot 240.

[0173] The holding means 270 are configured to cooperate with the upper fitting 30 to hold the locking element 35 in its locking position and / or in its unlocked position.

[0174] The holding means 270 are, for example, accommodated in the slot 240.

[0175] The holding means 270 are, for example, elastic means configured to engage each fourth projection 250 of the slot 240 so as to hold the locking element 35 in its locking position and / or in its unlocked position.

[0176] For example, the holding means 270 comprise at least one arm 270 (visible by transparency on the figure 9 through the first partially hidden guide portion 260) configured to come into abutment against a fourth projection 250 when the locking element 35 is in its unlocked position and to exert on this fourth projection 250 a force opposing a movement of the locking element 35 towards its locking position.

[0177] The arm 270 is configured to be elastically deformed under the effect of a pressing force of the projection 250 on the arm 270 when an operator moves the locking element 35 towards its locking position, so as to allow such movement.

[0178] When the locking element 35 is in its locking position, the arm 270 returns to its undeformed position and bears against another projection (not shown) of the slot 240 to prevent movement of the locking element 35 out of the slot 240 in the vertical direction Z under the effect of its own weight.

[0179] The arm 270 then forms, with the projections 250, means for retaining by snap-fastening.

[0180] The arms 270 are for example two in number, one for each end face 245 of the slot 240.

[0181] It should be noted that other types of holding means 270 cooperating with corresponding complementary means 250 of the upper fitting 30 are also conceivable.

[0182] A rotation element 40 is shown in the figure 10 , and visible on the figures 3 And 4 . However, it should be noted that several rotation elements 40 are likely to be present, for example two per panel 20.

[0183] Each rotation element 40 is interposed between the lower end 145 of the panel 20 and the lower part 45 of the frame 15 in the vertical direction Z. In particular, the rotation element 40 is interposed between the lower end 145 of the panel 20 and the first lower beam 60 in the vertical direction Z.

[0184] Each rotation element 40 is, for example, fixed to the lower end 145, in particular by pinching the main portion 125 between two protrusions 275 and 280 of the rotation element 40.

[0185] Each rotation element 40 is configured to allow rotation of the panel 20 relative to the frame 15 when the panel 20 is being put into place, therefore before the panel 20 is in its position of use. The rotation is in particular a rotation around an axis parallel to the second direction Y.

[0186] Each rotation element 40 is made of a plastic material, for example polyamide, in particular polyamide loaded with polypropylene.

[0187] Each rotation element 40 comprises, in addition to the protrusions 275 and 280, a body 285 and a tongue 290.

[0188] Each protrusion 275, 280 extends in the vertical direction Z, upwardly, from the body 285.

[0189] The protrusion 275 bears against the face of the main portion 125 which is directed towards the outside of the cabinet 10. For example, the protrusion 275 is engaged in an opening 292 provided in the main portion 125 and / or in the end portion 130 which delimits the main portion 125 from below when the panel 20 is in the position of use.

[0190] The protrusion 280 bears against the face of the main portion 125 which is directed towards the interior of the cabinet 10.

[0191] The body 285 has a rolling face 295 and a bearing face 300.

[0192] The rolling face 295 is configured to roll on a face of the lower portion 45 of the frame 15 during rotation of the panel along an axis extending along the second direction Y.

[0193] In other words, during the aforementioned rotation, the rolling face 295 bears against the lower part 45 and rolls on the lower part 45. In particular, the rolling face 295 rolls on the upper face 95 of a guide 65 corresponding to the rolling element 40 considered.

[0194] The rolling face 295 is, for example, in the form of a portion of a cylinder extending in the second direction Y. A radius of the cylinder is, for example, between 18 mm and 22 mm.

[0195] However, other shapes than the cylinder are likely to be considered.

[0196] The bearing face 300 delimits the rolling face 295 along the second direction Y.

[0197] The bearing face 300 is, for example, planar. In particular, the bearing face 300 is perpendicular to the second direction Y.

[0198] The bearing face 300 is configured to come into contact with a face of the guide 65 corresponding to the rotation element 40 in question, in particular against a lateral face 100, to prevent movement of the rotation element 40 relative to the frame 65 during rotation of the panel 20.

[0199] In particular, the bearing faces 30 of the two rotation elements 40 of the same panel 20 are oriented opposite each other.

[0200] The tab 290 extends from the body 285 in the first direction X.

[0201] The tongue 290 is interposed in the vertical direction Z between the lower end 145 and the first lower beam 60, in particular between the end portion 130 which delimits the main portion 125 from below and the first lower beam 60.

[0202] The tab 290 has a thickness, measured in the vertical direction Z, of between 2 mm and 4 mm.

[0203] The tab 290 has a length, measured along the first direction X, of between 25 mm and 40 mm.

[0204] The assembly of cabinet 10 will now be described.

[0205] In a first step, the frame 15 and the panel 20 are provided. Each fitting 25, 30 corresponding to the panel 20 is, for example, fixed to the frame 15. Each locking element 35 is in the corresponding unlocking position.

[0206] In a second step, the panel 20 is inserted into the frame 15. For example, the panel 20 forms an angle greater than or equal to 30° with the vertical direction Z, the main portion 125 being inclined towards the lower part 45 of the frame 15 and the rear portions 140 being directed towards the upper part 50.

[0207] In particular, the lower end 145 is arranged by the operator in such a way that the rolling surfaces 295 of the rotation elements 40 rest on the upper faces 95 of the guides 65. Furthermore, the bearing faces 300 are each opposite a lateral face 100 of the corresponding guide 65.

[0208] In a third step, the operator raises the panel 20 to put it in its position of use, via a rotation movement of the panel 20 around an axis parallel to the second direction Y.

[0209] The rotation causes the lower end 145 to bear against each lower fitting 25. In particular, the lower end 145 comes to rest on each bearing portion 170. Furthermore, the rotation causes each projection 165 to be inserted into the corresponding second opening 155.

[0210] The rotation is carried out around an axis formed, for example, by support points of the rotation elements 40 against the guides 65.

[0211] In a fourth step, the operator moves each locking element 35 to its locking position. Thus, the panel 20 is held in position by the fittings 25, 30: the projection 165 prevents movement of the lower end 145 in the X direction, and the locking element 35 prevents the panel from pivoting around its lower end 145 since the upper end 150 abuts against the locking element 35 during this movement.

[0212] During a fifth step, the operator fixes each fitting 25, 30 to the panel 20, in particular by screwing.

[0213] Thanks to the invention, a single operator can place the panel 20 in the frame 15 and fix it there, since it is not necessary for another operator to hold the panel 20 in position while fixing the panel 20 to the fittings 25, 30. Furthermore, this holding is obtained in a simple manner and without complex mechanisms. The speed of assembly of the cabinet 10 is therefore improved, despite the small number of operators required.

[0214] Screwing is a rapid method of fixing the panel 20 to the fittings 25, 30, allowing the panel to support high loads in particular.

[0215] Interposing the upper end 150 of the panel 20 between the locking element 35 and the second rear portion 210 makes it possible to easily hold this upper end 150 in position. A locking element 35 movable in translation between its two positions makes it possible to obtain such a hold easily and with a fitting 30 and a locking element 35 of simple and quick-to-manufacture shapes.

[0216] The holding means 270 and their complementary means 250 make it possible to facilitate the operator's task.

[0217] A projection 165 engaged in an opening of the lower end 145 makes it possible to hold this lower end 145 in position in a simple manner and without unduly complicating the cabinet 10.

[0218] Single-piece fittings 25, 30 simplify the structure of the cabinet 10.

[0219] The projections 200 and 235 make it easier to assemble the frame 15 and, above all, to fix the fittings 25, 30 to the frame 15 by allowing them to be easily put in place by a single operator since the projections prevent the fittings 25, 30 from falling while they are being screwed to the frame 15.

[0220] The rotation element 40 makes it easier to place the panel 20 in its position of use, by facilitating the rotation of the panel relative to the frame, in particular when the rotation element 40 is made of plastic, since the metal panel 20 rolls poorly on the metal frame 15. The guides 65 further facilitate this rotation, by providing a larger surface than the beams 60 to allow the panel 20 to roll, and the faces 300 facilitate the positioning of the panel relative to the frame by bearing against the guides 65.

[0221] It should be noted that the X and Y directions have been defined relative to the orientation of the panel 20 described above. Other panels 20 may be present and fixed to the frame 15 by corresponding fittings 25 and 30, these panels 20 and fittings 25, 30 being identical to the panel 20 and the fittings 25 and 30 described above, but rotated for example by 90° around a vertical axis to reflect the different orientation of each other panel 20.

Claims

1. A cabinet (10), in particular an electrical cabinet, comprising a framework (15) and at least one panel (20) designed to be fixed to the framework (15) in a position of use, the framework (15) comprising an upper section (50) and a lower section (45), characterised in that the panel (20) having a lower end (145) and an upper end (150) delimiting the panel (20) in a vertical direction (Z) of the cabinet (10) when the panel (20) is in the position of use, a first direction (X) and a second direction (Y) being defined, characterised in that the first and second directions (X, Y) being perpendicular to each other and perpendicular to the vertical direction (Z), the panel (20) being perpendicular to the first direction (X) when the panel (20) is in the position of use, the cabinet (10) further comprising at least an upper fitting (30) and a lower fitting (25), the upper fitting (30) being fixed to the upper section (50) of the framework (15), the lower fitting (25) being fixed to the lower section (45) of the framework (15), in which the lower end (145) of the panel (20), in the use position, rests on the lower fitting (25), the lower fitting (25) being configured to prevent displacement of the lower end (145) in the first direction (X) relative to the framework (15), the cabinet (10) comprising at least one locking element (35) carried by the upper fitting (30) and movable relative to the upper fitting (30) between an unlocked position and a locked position, the locking element (35) being configured to prevent displacement of the upper end (150) in the first direction (X) relative to the framework (15) when the locking element (35) is in the locked position and the panel (20) is in the use position, and to allow displacement of the upper end (150) in the first direction (X) relative to the framework (15) when the locking element (35) is in the unlocked position, wherein the locking element comprises holding means (270) configured to cooperate with complementary means (250) of the upper fitting (30) to hold the locking element (35) in the unlocked position, the holding means (270) being in particular snap-fit holding means, the cabinet (10) being characterised in that the locking element (35) is translationally movable relative to the upper fitting (30) between the locked position and the unlocked position.

2. A cabinet as claimed in claim 1, in which the panel (20) is configured to be fixed to the top fitting (30) and to the bottom fitting (25), in particular by screwing, when the panel (20) is in the position of use.

3. A cabinet according to claim 1 or 2, in which the upper fitting comprises a rear portion (175) against which the panel (20) bears when the panel (20) is in the position of use, the upper end (150) being interposed along the first direction (X) between the rear portion (175) and the locking element (35) when the panel (20) is in the position of use and the locking element (35) is in the locking position.

4. A cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which at least one fitting (25, 30) comprises a first projection (200, 235) engaged in a corresponding first opening (90) in the framework (15), the first projection (200, 235) being configured to prevent translation of the fitting (25, 30) in the vertical direction (Z) when the first projection (200, 235) is engaged in the first opening (90).

5. A cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in which each upper (30) or lower (25) fitting is made in one piece.

6. A cabinet according to claim 4 or claim 5 when dependent on claim 4, wherein the lower fitting (25) comprises a second projection (165), the second projection (165) being engaged in a second opening (155) in the panel (20) to prevent movement of the lower end (145) in the first direction (X) relative to the framework (15) when the panel (20) is in the position of use.

7. A cabinet according to any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a rotating element (40) positioned between the lower section (45) of the framework (15) and the lower end (145), the rotating element (40) being fixed to the lower end (145) and comprising a rolling surface (295) configured to roll on a surface (95) of the lower section (45) when the panel (20) pivots about an axis parallel to the second direction (Y) towards the usage position.

8. A cabinet according to claim 7, wherein the lower section (45) of the framework (15) comprises a guide (65) extending in the first direction (X), the guide (65) being configured so that the rotating element (40) rolls on the guide (65) during pivoting of the panel (20).

9. A cabinet as claimed in claim 8, in which the rotating element (40) further includes a bearing face (300) configured to bear against a face (100) of the guide (65) to prevent displacement of the rotating element (40) in the second direction (Y) during pivoting.