Interface device for handling a container, in particular a tipping container

Abstract

Interface device (1) for handling intended to cooperate with a forklift (3) and to carry a container (2) in particular tilting, and comprising a chassis (10) having passages designed to accommodate forks (30) of a forklift (3), support means (13) intended to carry the container and a structure (14) with a mobility function, intended to make the container mobile, characterized in that the structure (14) with a mobility function operates in horizontal translation so that it is capable of moving in horizontal translation the container which is intended to be carried by the interface device.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to the field of container handling, in particular tilting containers intended for the temporary storage of any type of object or waste.

[0002] The invention will be described more particularly with regard to the handling of tilting containers for the purpose of emptying them by tipping into a storage skip, without however being limited to it, and may be applied to any container to be handled by a forklift.

[0003] A typical tipping container for handling with a forklift consists of a chassis with a pair of forklift pockets, a container fixed to the chassis and pivoting to move from an upright, horizontal position for waste storage to a tilted position for gravity-fed discharge, and a locking and unlocking system for the container in the upright position. The locking system is manually operated by the operator to release the container and allow it to tip. However, such a container has the drawback of requiring an operator to manually activate the locking system to discharge the contents and then manually relock the container once it is emptied and returned to the upright position. The operator is often the forklift driver, who must therefore get off and back on the forklift several times.

[0004] To avoid manual operation, patent application FR2958924 proposes a removable interface device between the forklift and the tipping container. This interface device includes forklift forks designed to reach into the forks of the container's frame, and an automated lifting system for one end of the container, enabling it to pivot. The automated lifting system comprises a central sliding column that can be tilted via a hydraulic cylinder, and a pair of closely spaced miniature arms that move vertically within the central column's slide to position themselves at the height of the container. The pair of arms opposite the slide engages centrally with the edge of the container, and the pivoting of the slide causes the container to tip.This interface device allows for the transfer of containers from one container to another using a forklift and for the automated tilting of the container.

[0005] However, although this patent offers a solution for automated tipping, a drawback remains: the forklift must always unload at the edge of the skip. To distribute the waste throughout the skip during filling, the operator positions the forklift at various points along its edge. This requires sufficient clearance around the skip for forklift access and maneuverability, which is not always feasible, especially when multiple skips need to be placed side-by-side. Therefore, patent FR3114088B1 describes equipping a skip with longitudinal tracks along which a container can be moved for unloading. This container is carried by a small vehicle equipped with a lifting and a sliding mechanism.The small vehicle allows the container to be lifted to the edge of the skip, which can then be moved along the skip's tracks to be emptied away from the edge. This advantageous solution allows the entire volume of the skip to be filled progressively by positioning the small vehicle at the end of the skip, without having to move around it. However, the small vehicle and container are specifically designed for this purpose. For certain applications, it may be preferable to continue using a forklift for transporting and lifting the container and to use existing, standard containers.

[0006] In parallel with the handling containers, it is therefore also important to have easy access to different areas of the storage bin and not only at its end in order to fill it as needed, although it always remains fixed.

[0007] The invention therefore aims to provide a solution for a handling interface device for a container tilting over a storage bin, which can be used if necessary with a forklift and standard containers, without presenting the aforementioned disadvantages.The invention also aims to provide a solution for a handling interface device for a container tilting over a storage bin, which, when the container is at the height of the bin, can be emptied at different locations in the storage bin, the container being at the height of the storage bin, either because the arrival platform of the handling container is directly at the height of the upper emptying plane of the storage bin, or because the handling container is able to be translated in height from the ground to the upper emptying plane of the storage bin by any lifting systems (forklift as a fixed structure with elevator function, installed on the ground and at the end of a storage bin).

[0008] According to the invention, the handling interface device according to one embodiment conforms to claim 1.

[0009] In a first embodiment, the handling interface device is intended to cooperate with a forklift and to carry a container, in particular a tilting one, and comprises a chassis with passages designed to accommodate forks of a forklift, support means intended to carry the container and a structure with a mobility function, intended to make the container mobile (while the interface device is intended to be carried by the forklift), the interface device being characterized in that the structure with a mobility function operates in horizontal translation so that it is capable of moving in horizontal translation the container which is intended to be carried by the interface device.

[0010] Therefore, the interface device allows a container to be carried and is perfectly suited to be transported and moved by a forklift to bring the container to the desired location, in particular to a storage bin, to raise it to the appropriate height, in particular to the height of the upper opening plane of the storage bin, and to move it in translation, in particular over the storage bin to empty it at the desired location of the bin.

[0011] Thus, only the interface device specifically designed was one that can be easily used with any forklift and can carry any type of container.

[0012] Furthermore, it is not necessary to move the forklift all the way around the storage container to fill it from one end to the other; it is sufficient to position it at the end of the container. This has the advantage of saving floor space by allowing multiple storage containers to be arranged side by side, parallel to each other along their longitudinal sides, since access to them is only required at their ends.

[0013] In a second embodiment, the handling interface device is designed to carry a container, particularly a tipping container, and comprises support means for carrying the container and a mobility structure for enabling the container to move. The interface device is characterized in that the mobility structure operates in horizontal translation, enabling it to move the container intended to be carried by the interface device horizontally. Thus, the interface device can carry any type of container and be positioned at the end of a storage bin while allowing it to be filled along its length by means of the translation of the interface device's mobility structure. Again, the container is brought to a distance from the end of the bin to be emptied at any point within the storage bin.This is very practical because, as explained above, it saves floor space by allowing several storage bins to be arranged side-by-side, parallel to each other along their longitudinal sides. The interface device does not need to have forklift pockets if it is fixed. Indeed, the interface device can be permanently attached to a loading dock where a storage bin is located below; the handling container is brought to the interface device by positioning it on the support means of said device, and once in place, the container can be moved over the storage bin, away from the loading dock.According to a particular feature, the interface device comprises a rear part, a front part including the support means, the structure with mobility function being intended to make the container mobile by horizontally translating the front part relative to the rear part, and in that the rear part comprises jacks connected to the rear end of the structure with mobility function, the jacks being able to rotate the front part when it is in position against the rear part (non-translated position or so-called folded position) so as to raise and lower said front part, in particular to raise and lower said front part when it is equipped with rolling or sliding elements.

[0014] Advantageously, in this second embodiment, the rear portion includes additional support means for a container when the mobility structure is folded (front portion fully against the rear portion). Since the front portion cantilevered relative to the rear portion, this allows both the front portion and the container to be supported in mid-air. Preferably, the additional support means for the rear portion are elongated, fork-like elements that cooperate with the support means for the front portion, specifically by inserting the support means into hollow interface profiles and into the sleeves provided by the container when the container is in place on the device.

[0015] In a third embodiment, the interface device is also not required to have forklift pockets if it cooperates with a lifting device other than a forklift truck.In particular, the handling interface device is intended to carry a container, in particular a tilting one, and includes support means for carrying the container, a rear part, a front part comprising the support means, a structure with a mobility function, intended to make the container mobile by horizontally translating the front part relative to the rear part, the rear part constituting a seating structure for the interface device and being fixed by being intended to be installed on the ground, and the front part being arranged at a height, the interface device further comprising a lifting and lowering system intended and able to raise and lower the handling container between the ground and the plane where the front part able to be translated is located.In particular, the lifting system constitutes or is coupled to the container support means and also constitutes a locking and unlocking system intended to ensure the locking and unlocking of the container's tilting, preferably the lifting and lowering system being a system with motorized chains and sprockets.

[0016] In the following description, the qualifiers "horizontal", "vertical", "superior", "inferior", "high" and "low" of an element of the interface device and of a tilting container are used in the context of a normal installation of the interface device and the tilting container, that is to say relating to a vertical notion in relation to a horizontal surface on which the interface device or the container would be placed.

[0017] The term "front", as opposed to "rear", qualifies an element within the context of normal use of the interface device and the tipping container, the front of the interface device corresponding to the area at which the container will be installed while the rear will be intended to cooperate with a forklift or other lifting means or intended to remain fixed, and the front of the container corresponding to the area from which the container will be emptied.

[0018] In the following description, "upright position" refers to the non-tilted position of the tilting container.

[0019] In the following description, the term "transverse" means the direction corresponding to the width of the interface device, that is, the direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis which corresponds to the front-to-back direction or the engagement direction of the forks of a forklift intended to cooperate with the interface device.

[0020] According to one characteristic, the chassis comprises two parts: a front part and a rear part. The front part contains the container support means, and the rear part contains the forklift pockets. Furthermore, the front part is capable of translational movement relative to the rear part via a mobility-function structure. Thus, when the interface device is in use, the rear part remains supported by the forklift, while the front part, on which the container is mounted, can be moved away from the rear part and therefore away from the forklift.

[0021] In a preferred example of the invention, the mobility function structure connects the rear part to the front part and is capable of deploying and folding, preferably said structure being actuated by jacks, in particular said structure comprising two opposite and parallel compass arms (which deploy and fold simultaneously).

[0022] According to one characteristic, the support means (intended to support a container) are, in particular, two hollow interface profiles spaced apart to allow the passage of forklift-type tines. Specifically, the two hollow interface profiles are arranged in line with the passages designed to accommodate the tines.

[0023] Advantageously, the support means (intended for supporting a container) comprise two hollow and spaced interface profiles, which project towards the front of the interface device (and in a longitudinal direction which corresponds to the direction of translation), the two interface profiles being, on the one hand, of the type suitable for receiving the forks of a forklift, and on the other hand, suitable for being inserted into a pair of sleeves which are usually used for the insertion of forklift forks (the sleeves being integral with the container intended to be carried by the interface device), preferably the two interface profiles having a generally U-shaped cross-section. Of course, for the insertion of the forks, the interface profiles are open at least at one of their ends.The U-shaped section, rather than a closed right quadrilateral shape, allows for increased material thickness on one face of the profile, thus increasing the profile height to fit with slight play into a forklift fork sleeve.

[0024] Advantageously, the forklift pockets are automatically adjustable in width, preferably via hydraulic cylinders, and the support means, which are in particular two hollow interface profiles spaced for the forklift pockets, are also adjustable in width, preferably capable of being adjusted simultaneously with the forklift pockets by being mechanically connected to said pockets independently of any translational operation (except when the front part is away from the rear). In this way, the interface device adapts to all containers regardless of the spacing of the fork pockets on which the container is fitted.

[0025] According to one feature, the interface device includes locking gripping means (such as hooks) designed and adapted to cooperate with a forklift to secure the interface device to said forklift, in particular by cooperating with (at the rear of) a rising portion of the forks of the forklift, and preferably the gripping means being movable by means of cylinders for coupling and uncoupling from said forklift. Advantageously, the gripping means are located at the rear of the interface device, in particular on the rear portion of the two-part interface device. The gripping means are, in particular, remotely controlled for coupling and uncoupling with respect to the forklift.

[0026] According to one characteristic, the chassis includes a lifting system coupled to the support means and capable of raising and lowering said support means vertically, preferably with the lifting system being actuated by hydraulic cylinders. This lifting system allows certain types of containers, particularly those with a front axis, to be raised above a storage bin so that when they tip over and / or return to the end of the storage bin in their tilted state, they do not encounter any waste present in the storage bin.

[0027] According to one feature (for the first embodiment), the chassis includes a lifting system integrated into the front part of the interface device, capable of raising the handling container above the level of the support plane of the rolling or sliding elements and lowering it back into that support plane. Alternatively, the lifting system integrated into the front part may be capable of raising the handling container above the level of the support plane of the rolling or sliding elements and lowering it back into that support plane, and / or (for another embodiment) capable of lowering said handling container below the support plane of the rolling or sliding elements when the mobility structure is folded and the front part, in the installed position of the interface device, is arranged outside of a storage bin.This embodiment is used, for example, without a forklift and when the interface device is permanently installed (third embodiment); the rear part is fixed to the ground and forms a frame like an elevator shaft for raising or lowering a container from the ground to the support surface of the rolling or sliding elements. In this latter case, the lifting system constitutes (in particular in the form of suspension means) or is coupled to the container support means; the lifting system also constitutes a locking and unlocking system for preventing the container from tilting.

[0028] According to one feature, the interface device includes an automated locking and unlocking interface system for locking and unlocking the tilting of a container to be positioned on the interface device; in particular, the locking and unlocking interface system includes a movable locking and unlocking part that is fixed to the interface device, in particular to the front of the interface device (more particularly to one of the container support means), as well as automated actuation means for the movable part and a fixed part in the form of an adapter kit component, which is intended to be fixed to, and specifically designed for, a tilting actuation member of a container intended to be carried by the interface device.The moving part is designed to cooperate with the fixed part in an active safety position that prevents the container from tipping and in an unlocked position that allows tipping. Specifically, a tipping container is always equipped with an actuating mechanism, such as a lever, which, in a certain position, allows the container to tip. This lever has a mechanical safety feature that, when activated, prevents it from being in the position that allows the container to tip. Depending on the manufacturer's model, the actuating mechanism can take various forms (lever, pedal, thick sheet metal, etc.), so the adapter kit component is specifically designed to fit the actuating mechanism. The kit component can be secured to the actuating mechanism by mechanical fastening, welding, etc. Furthermore,A standard container always includes an additional mechanical safety feature that must be disengaged before operating the safety mechanism directly linked to the actuating device. This additional safety feature ensures, in particular, that the container does not tip unexpectedly when being moved on the forklift. However, currently, the operator must always get off the forklift to deactivate this additional safety feature, which is not necessarily safe for them in areas where other forklifts may be operating. Therefore, the automated locking and unlocking interface system of the invention advantageously allows, firstly, the replacement of the mechanical safety feature associated with the actuating device that allows tipping on a tilting container, and secondly, the replacement of the additional safety feature. Thus,The fixed part of the system's adaptation kit is pre-installed on the container's tilting mechanism (having been specifically designed to adapt to the type of tilting mechanism, which varies depending on the manufacturer's model and whether the container is "front-axis" or "center-axis"). The moving part, located on the interface device, is designed to be automatically operated by the user via a human-machine interface (for example, by pressing a control button displayed on the interface). According to one characteristic, the moving part is designed and capable of automatically cooperating with the fixed part of the container's tilting mechanism in at least two positions.An active safety position prevents any actuation of the locking mechanism (thus preventing any accidental tipping of the container, particularly during transport) and corresponds to the additional mechanical safety of a standard container. An unlocked position allows the container to be tipped. This allows the operator to automatically control the container's active safety while remaining seated in the forklift, without manual intervention, thus ensuring operator safety. During transport and until the container is positioned over the storage bin, the moving part of the locking and unlocking interface system is in the active position. Once the container is in place over the storage bin, the operator automatically actuates the moving part to switch from the active safety position to the unlocked position. In the unlocked position,The actuating mechanism can be activated at the desired time to tilt the container. Once the container has been emptied, it will automatically tilt back as usual by coming against the edge of the storage bin to return to an upright position, and the actuating mechanism will systematically return to its pre-activation position; the operator can then automatically, via the human-machine interface (without leaving the trolley), actuate the moving part to return it to the active safety position.

[0029] According to the invention, the container is capable of being in a tilted position, while the mobility structure is in operation to translate the container. Thus, emptying is carried out dynamically; the inclination of the container, coupled with a translational movement, makes it possible to create layers of waste of homogeneous thickness along the entire length of the storage skip, ensuring a high filling rate since there is no longer an accumulation of heterogeneous piles of waste.

[0030] In one embodiment, the fixed part of the kit includes a light and the moving part includes a rotating cam actuated by a cylinder and, at the end of the cam, a hook which is able to cooperate with the light of the fixed part, the hook being arranged parallel to the general plane of the light in the unlocked position and being arranged in the light and at an angle not parallel to the general plane of the light in the active safety position, the cam being further able to position the hook outside the light (so-called open position) to ensure the installation of the container on the support means of the interface device (without the moving part being engaged in the light of the fixed part).

[0031] According to one characteristic, the interface device includes visualization means such as a camera and / or scanner as well as at least one equipment block including the power supply, control means for various actuators integrated into the interface device, data processing means which receive data from the visualization means and remote communication means to remotely control the actuators and remotely transmit data from the visualization means.

[0032] According to one characteristic, the interface device comprises, particularly in a rear section, at least one equipment block including the power supply, control means for the various actuators (in particular cylinders) of the interface device, data processing means that receive data from display means located on the interface device, and remote communication means for remotely controlling the actuators, as well as a human-machine interface intended to be installed in the forklift, this interface being portable. Preferably, the communication is carried out using a secure wireless technology.

[0033] According to one feature, the interface device is used for at least one waste storage container, particularly for several containers arranged side-by-side, with the interface device positioned at the end of each container. This reduces the required storage area by placing the containers side-by-side parallel to their longitudinal direction. The interface device of the invention increases waste storage volume by 40%: it allows the containers to be positioned side-by-side, eliminating the wasted space between them and thus increasing the number of containers on the ground by more than 30%; its mobility above a container optimizes the container filling rate, reaching up to 90%.

[0034] The invention also relates to an assembly comprising an interface device of the aforementioned invention and a container, in particular a tilting one, preferably the container having two spaced sleeves for the insertion of forks of a forklift.

[0035] The invention also relates to the aforementioned assembly of the invention and at least one storage skip equipped with longitudinal tracks with which the interface device cooperates for its translational movement when the mobility-function structure has been actuated. "Longitudinal tracks" are understood to mean the free end upper edge of the two longitudinal sides of a conventional storage skip or specific guiding equipment added to the free end upper edge of the two longitudinal sides of a storage skip. The free end upper edge of the two longitudinal sides of a storage skip serves as a support for the rolling of the front section and the handling container.Thus, the interface device with the container can be reliably and advantageously moved away from the distal end / edge of the skip to empty the container into a still-empty area of ​​the skip while the operator with their forklift remains positioned at the end of the skip. Moving the interface device, and therefore the container, relative to the storage skip optimizes skip filling.

[0036] According to one feature, the interface device includes rolling or sliding elements arranged on the front part of the chassis. These rolling or sliding elements facilitate the guidance and translation of the interface device by bearing against the upper ends of the longitudinal sides of a storage bin, when the device is simultaneously deployed in horizontal translation to move forward over said storage bin.

[0037] In particular, the front part of the chassis of the device comprises two longitudinal members and two lateral profiles, each of which includes the rolling or sliding elements; preferably each lateral profile includes at least two rolling or sliding elements, each of the elements being arranged at each end of the lateral profile.

[0038] In a particular design, each rolling element is shaped like a cylindrical roller or wheel with a rotation axis perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the side profiles. This type of rolling element allows it to interact with the upper edge of a standard storage bin. Each rolling or sliding element is unpowered. Each rolling or sliding element is mechanically independent of any motorized means or rack and pinion or hydraulic cylinder drive, which simplifies the interface design and does not increase manufacturing costs. However, each rolling or sliding element assists in the mobility of the front section on the storage bin during the deployment and retraction of the mobility structure.Furthermore, since the mobility structure is preferably movable by jacks, the interface device provides a simple overall design and limited manufacturing costs.

[0039] Preferably, each rolling or sliding element comprises a bearing surface and at least one flange extending in a plane orthogonal to the plane of the bearing surface and located on the outer side of the interface device (on the outer side of the lateral profile associated with the rolling or sliding element). This flange includes a portion projecting beyond the bearing surface and in the opposite direction to the lateral profile (i.e., downwards in the operating position of the interface device). The flange with its projecting portion acts as a stop against the outer wall of the storage container, thus contributing to the linear guidance of the rolling or sliding elements.

[0040] The present invention is now described by means of purely illustrative and in no way limiting examples of the scope of the invention, and from the accompanying illustrations, in which: [ Fig. 1 ] represents a side-by-side perspective view of a forklift, an example of a common tipping container (commercially known as a "center-pivot skip"), and an example of an interface device according to the invention for handling and moving a tipping container. Fig. 2 ] represents a perspective view of the interface device of the figure 1 loaded by the forklift and supporting the container. Fig. 3 ] shows the front part of the interface device of the figure 1 in the deployed position and without the container installed. Fig. 4 ] is a perspective view of a storage skip placed on the ground and the entire interface device and container of the figure 1 , lifted by the forklift to the height of the storage skip and before tipping. Fig. 5 ] corresponds to the figure 4 , part of the interface device supporting the container having been moved, prior to emptying the container, away from the end of the storage bin in order to optimize the filling of the storage bin. Fig. 6 ] corresponds to the figure 4 with another common example of a tipping container (commercially known as a "front-axis tipping skip"), the container is here tipped after being advantageously raised beforehand via a lifting system provided by the interface device. In the figure, one of the longitudinal tracks of the storage skip has been removed to visualize the interface device after translation. Fig. 7 ] is a rear-perspective detail view of the interface device of the figure 4 at the start of the deployment compared to the forklift. Fig. 8 [ ] is a partial, top-down view of the forklift and the interface device of the figure 1 at the rear level, without illustrating the equipment block, in order to visualize the means of adjusting the spacing of the forklift's forks. Fig. 9A ] represents a detailed, bird's-eye view of an example of the implementation of the locking and unlocking means for the container on the interface device, remotely operable, the container here being that of the figure 1 , with a central axis, and the locking and unlocking means being in an open position allowing the container to be installed on the interface device. Fig. 9B ] corresponds to [ Fig. 9A ] in an intermediate position known as active safety, in which the container is locked in place on the interface device and prevented from being tipped over. Fig. 9C ] corresponds to [ Fig. 9A ] in a so-called actuation position in which the container is locked in place on the interface device while still being able to be tilted. Fig. 10 ] corresponds to the intermediate position of [ Fig. 9A ] according to the example of the container of the figure 6 with a central axis. Fig. 11 ] is a variant of the interface device of the figure 1 . [ Fig. 12 ] is a detailed view of a bearing component of the interface device in cooperation with the upper edge of a storage bin. Fig. 13 ] is another embodiment of an interface device of the invention, the interface device being permanently fixed to a discharge dock. Fig. 13A ] illustrates the interface device of the figure 13 slightly raised for placement directly beneath a storage skip. Fig. 13B ] illustrates the interface device of the figure 13 deployed above a storage skip. Fig. 14 ] is another embodiment of an interface device of the invention, the interface device being fixed to the ground and having an additional function of raising a handling container from the ground to the upper plane of the deployable mobility structure, a plane corresponding to the upper plane of a storage skip. Fig. 14A ] corresponds to the figure 14 with the handling container raised to the height of the upper plane of the storage skip. Fig. 14B ] corresponds to the figure 14A with the front part of the interface device being moved above the storage bin. Fig. 15 ] is a variant of the figure 14 with another type of handling container.

[0041] The container handling and translation interface device 1, illustrated in the figures, constitutes an interface device for handling a container 2 with a forklift 3 and being able to translate it at a distance from the forklift.

[0042] Without limitation, the example of using interface device 1 of the invention is applied to a tipping container 2. Interface device 1 allows the tipping container 2 to be emptied into a storage bin 4 as illustrated in the figures. figures 4 à 6 , at a distance from a forklift 3 which will have brought container 2 to the end of the storage bin.

[0043] Container 2 is intended for the temporary storage of waste, for example; it is tiltable so that the waste can subsequently be emptied into skip 4 after being raised to the correct height using the forklift 3 and the interface device 1. Skip 4 advantageously includes longitudinal tracks or guide rails 40 arranged on the longitudinal edges of skip 4 ( figures 4 à 7 ) in order to move a portion of the interface device 1, which supports the container 2 above the skip 4, from the end where the forklift 3 is located, towards the opposite end. The guide tracks 40 could also be formed directly from the upper end edges 40' of the skip as shown in the figures 12 and following.

[0044] Container 2 is a standard commercial container; for example, it has a central axis like the one illustrated on the figure 1 or with a front axle like the one illustrated on the figure 6 . Container 2 with front axis, in tilted position extends further downwards than a container with central axis.

[0045] Typically, the container 2 comprises a frame 20, a temporary storage compartment 21 with a rear section 21-1 and a front section 21-2, and two spaced sleeves 22 to receive the forks 30 of the forklift 3. The container 2 has a base for placing it on the ground when not being handled. The base may consist of the sleeves 22 on their underside and / or feet 23 or casters, which may be retractable. The compartment 21 is capable of assuming an upright position for temporary waste storage and a tilted position for emptying. The compartment 21 is capable of tilting by pivoting around an axis, which, as is known, may be central or front. The container 2 has an actuating element 24 ( figure 7 ) allowing, in its unlocked position, the container 2 to tip. This actuating member 24 is located at the rear 21-1 and is usually manually operated. It can have various shapes depending on the container's manufacture (brand). For example, the actuating member 24 is a lever. As will be described later, the interface device 1 includes a locking and unlocking interface system 5 that is interposed between said interface device 1 and the actuating member 24 in order to remotely and automatically control the unlocking of the actuating member so that the container can be in the position ready to tip.

[0046] The interface device 1 is designed to be able to translate the container 2 horizontally beyond the edge of the skip 4 and parallel to the opening plane of the skip 4 in order to be able to dump the waste both at the end of the skip and at a distance from this end ( figures 5 And 6 ).

[0047] The interface device 1 comprises a chassis 10 in two parts, referred to as the front part 11 and the rear part 12, support means 13 such as a pair of interface profiles 13 attached to the front part 11 and intended to support the container 2, a structure with a mobility function 14, hereafter referred to as the linking structure, connecting the rear part 12 to the front part 11 and ensuring the translational mobility of the front part 11 of the chassis 10 relative to the rear part 12 (and thus ensuring the mobility of the container 2 relative to the forklift 3 and the skip 4), and rolling or sliding elements 15 arranged on the front part 11 of the chassis to accompany the translation of said front part 11 along the tracks 40 of the skip 4. Preferably, the front part 11 further comprises a lifting system 16 intended for raising the container 2 when the latter is in particular front-axis oriented.

[0048] The front part 11 of the chassis 10 is intended to be positioned under the container 2 ( figure 2 ) and to support container 2 thanks to its pair of interface profiles 13 ( figure 1 Preferably, the front part 11 comprises, for its rigidity and functionality, a base 11A and a gantry 11B connected by struts 11C. As shown in the figure 3 The base 11A is delimited by a so-called transverse beam 11-1, and two lateral profiles 11-2 and 11-3 which extend forwards perpendicularly to the transverse beam 11-1. In the example of the figure 3 The side profiles 11-2 and 11-3 are fixed, and the cross beam 11-1 can be raised or lowered via the lifting system 16 along uprights 11-4 and 11-5 as described later. On the figure 3 , the side profiles 11-2 and 11-3 are provided on their external face with the rolling or sliding elements 15. In one variant ( figure 11 ), the rolling or sliding elements 15 are at the two opposite front and rear ends of the side profiles 11-2 and 11-3. Furthermore, in the variant of the figure 11 , the interface device 1 does not necessarily have a lifting system 16. Advantageously, the rolling elements are not motorized; they allow rolling to guide and drive the front part 11 by pushing the mobility structure 14 during deployment.

[0049] The interface profiles 13 are arranged inside the base between and parallel to the lateral profiles 11-2 and 11-3. They are fixed to the crossbeam 11-1. Preferably, they are movable along the crossbeam 11-1 to adjust their position and spacing, as detailed later. Each interface profile 13 is hollow. Each interface profile 13 (attached to the front part 11) is, on the one hand, capable of receiving each fork 30 of the forklift 3 by engagement, and on the other hand, of cooperating by engagement in each sleeve 22 of the container 2. The forks 30 of the forklift 3 only cooperate temporarily with the interface profiles 13 to ensure the insertion of said interface profiles 13 into the sleeves 22 of the container 2.The interface profiles 13 extend lengthwise to cooperate with substantially the entire length of the sleeves 22 in order to support the container 2 without overhang when the container is in an upright position. The interface profiles 13 have dimensions adapted in cross-section for their engagement with the (rectangular) cross-section of the sleeves 22. Preferably, the interface profiles 13 have a U-shaped cross-section.

[0050] The gantry 11B of the front part 11 of the interface device 1 comprises two uprights 11-4 and 11-5 fixed to the base 11A, specifically at the two lateral profiles 11-2 and 11-3, respectively. The struts 11C connect the upper part of the uprights 11-4 and 11-5 to the lateral profiles 11-2 and 11-3. The gantry 11B supports the lifting system 16, which includes two jacks capable of vertically translating the transverse beam 11-1 along the two uprights 11-4 and 11-5, respectively, in order to raise and lower the interface profiles 13. The lifting system 16 serves, when the container 2 is supported by the interface profiles 13, to raise it as shown in figure 6 This is particularly useful for a front-axis container 2, which when tilted projects further downwards than a central-axis container; thus, raising the container 2 allows for more optimal filling of the storage bin 4 and prevents the front of the tilted container 2 from coming into contact with the waste when it returns to its initial position while still in the tilted position.

[0051] The rear part 12 of the interface device 1 ( figure 1 ) includes a base 12A which carries an equipment block 12B comprising the power supply and control means for the various actuators (in particular cylinders) of the interface device as well as remote communication means with a human-machine interface which the operator has at hand in the forklift to remotely control the actuators.

[0052] The rear section 12A, particularly at the base 12A, includes ( figure 7 ) a pair of passages 17 for the engagement and support of the forks 30 of the forklift 3. The engagement of the forks 30 in the passages 17 allows the forklift 3 to lift the rear part 12 and consequently to lift the interface device 1 with its front part 11 which supports the container 2 since the rear parts 12 and front parts 11 are connected to each other by the linking structure 14.

[0053] The spacing of the passages 17 is advantageously adjustable to correspond to the spacing of the interface profiles 13 and therefore to the spacing of the sleeves 22 of the container 2. The adjustment of the spacing of the passages 17 is done automatically by means of a system of cylinders 6 ( figure 8 ) which act in push or pull in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the passages 17 and to the direction of the forks 30 in the mounted position of the rear part 12 on the forks 30.

[0054] Furthermore, to secure the retention of the interface device 1, in particular to secure the rear part 12 in the mounted position on the forks 30 of the forklift 3, the interface device 1, in particular the rear part 12, includes gripping means 12' which are suitable for cooperating preferably with the rising part 31 of the forks 30 of the forklift ( figures 7 And 8 ). The gripping means 12' are mobile, preferably also by means of cylinders 7, so as to move from a coupling position to a discoupling position, and vice versa, with the rising part 31 of the forks 30 of the forklift.

[0055] As previously stated, the spacing between the interface profiles 13 is advantageously adjustable to adapt to the spacing of the sleeves 22, which can vary depending on the container 2. The spacing of the interface profiles 13 is adjusted by adjusting the spacing of the passages 17 when the front part 11 is positioned against the rear part 12. Each of the interface profiles 13 ( figure 7 ) externally and on each side of their inlet facing the rear part 12, lateral stops 13' with an indexing function. The lateral stops 13' are preferably oriented angularly and divergently outwards relative to the inlet plane of the interface profiles 13. The lateral stops 13' are adapted to engage in the passages 17 of the rear part 12 (at the exit of said passages 17 and opposite their inlet at which each of the forks 30 of the forklift is inserted); once the lateral stops 13' are inserted into the passages 17, the movement of the passages 17 in one direction or the other via the cylinders 6 mechanically causes the interface profiles 13 to move apart or together.

[0056] For the mobility of the front part 11 relative to the rear part 12 (which remains in a fixed position), the linkage structure 14 is a deployment structure operating with jacks 8 to deploy it ( figures 4 as well as figure 11 in a variant arrangement of the cylinders 8) and fold it ( figures 1 And 4 ). The structure 14 with mobility function for the front part 11 is able to unfold and fold to position the front part 11 against or at a distance from the rear part 12, the base 11A of the front part 11 always remaining in a horizontal plane.

[0057] Preferably, the connecting structure 14 comprises two opposing and parallel compass arms 14A and 14AB, each including a cylinder 8 for its articulation. To ensure rigidity and perfect parallelism of the compass arms 14A and 14B, the front parts of the arms are connected by cross members 14C. Thus, in combination with the rolling or sliding means 15 of the front part 11, the actuation of the cylinders 8 allows the compass arms 14A and 14B to be unfolded and the front part 11 to be pushed in translation, which can thus move away from the rear part 12, and consequently translate and move the container 2 away from the end of the storage bin 4 into the position of use.Once the front part 11 and therefore the container 2 have been moved to the appropriate location in the storage bin 4, the operator can remotely unlock the locking and unlocking interface system 5 (described in more detail below) so as to release the actuating member 24 of the container 2 so that the container 2 can tip over.

[0058] The interface system 5 is designed to allow automated unlocking of the actuating member 24 without requiring any modification to the design of said actuating member 24. To this end, the interface system 5 is mounted on the actuating member after its manual safety mechanism has been manually deactivated. The interface system 5 then serves to automatically lock or unlock the actuating member 24 in its free position for operation. The automated locking or unlocking of the actuating member 24 by the interface system 5 thus replaces the manual locking or unlocking of the member 24.

[0059] The interface system 5 comprises two parts: a first part 50, called the fixed part, which is mounted on the actuating member 24, and a second part 51, called the moving part, which is integral with the chassis 10 of the interface device. The moving part 51 is designed to cooperate with the fixed part 50 to lock it in a position called the active safety position or to unlock it, corresponding respectively to the locking or unlocking of the actuating member 24 (unlocking allows the actuating member to be operated when it is desired to tilt the container). On the figures 9A à 10 is illustrated a by no means limiting example of interface system 5.

[0060] The fixed part 50 of the interface system 5 is an adapter kit component that must be pre-attached to the actuating member 24. The fixed part 50 comprises a portion 50A intended to be attached to the actuating member 24, and a remote portion 50B with a slot 50'. The portion 50A that attaches to the actuating member 24 is, for example, a tubular sleeve that is threaded onto and mechanically fastened around the lever. The remote portion 50B has a shape adapted to the type of lever so that it can cooperate with the moving part 51. The remote portion 50B is, in particular, angled. As shown in the figures 9A And 10 The offset portion 50B is shown here in two examples of different shapes. This adapter kit component is specifically designed for each container model to perfectly fit the actuation mechanism, which may vary depending on the container manufacturer's model.

[0061] The movable part 51 is fixed to the front end of the front part 11 of the interface device. In particular, the movable part 51 is fixed to the crossbeam 11-1, preferably fixed to one of the interface profiles 13 at the point where it is attached to the crossbeam 11-1. Because the interface profile 13 is movable, this allows for optimized indexing of the interface system 5 with the actuating member (lever) 24. The movable part 51 is movable relative to the fixed part 50 (and therefore relative to the actuating member 24). The movable part 51 is preferably pivotable. The movable part 51 includes a hook 51' which is designed to engage with or disengage from the slot 50' in the fixed part 50. The movable part 51 is capable of adopting three positions, an open position in which the hook 51' is disengaged from the light 50' ( figure 9A ), an intermediate position known as active safety ( figure 9B ) for which the hook 51' is (partially) engaged in the light 50' by being oriented angularly with respect to the opening plane of the light 50' (i.e. at an angle not parallel to the opening plane of the light), and a so-called closed or unlocked position for which the hook 51' is fully engaged by being positioned beyond the light 50' and in a plane parallel to the opening plane of the light ( figure 9C ). The moving part 51 includes, for example, a rotating cam 52 and a cylinder 53, the translation of the cylinder 53 in one direction or the other causing the rotation of the cam 52 in one direction or the other and consequently the coupling or uncoupling of the hook 51' with the slot 50'. On the figure 9A The cam 52 is in the open position (the hook 51' is completely clear of the opening 50') so that the fixed part 50 can be fixed onto the actuating member (lever) 24 and the container can be installed in the upright position on the interface device when it is picked up by the forklift. On the figure 9B as on the figure 10 The cam 52 is in the active safety position, which places the hook 51' partially engaged in the slot 50' and thus prevents any tilting of the container 2, since the hook 51' is angularly locked in the slot and therefore prevents the container from pivoting / tilting forward. On the figure 9C , the cam 52 is in the unlocked position, which positions the hook 51' parallel to the general plane of the light 50' allowing the container 2 to tilt. The light 50' which has a stop function, also has a suitable dimension (according to its longitudinal dimension parallel to the direction of translation of the interface device) to allow the tilting.

[0062] Furthermore, the interface device 1, in particular the front part 11, and even more particularly the underside of the crossbeam 11-1, includes camera-type viewing means 9 ( figure 2 In particular, the viewing devices 9 are fixed to the front of the central platform 12-1. This allows the operator (while remaining seated in the forklift 3) to observe the inside of the skip 4 in order to optimize the loading of the skip during waste unloading. Specifically, the camera allows: an aid to positioning when the forklift 3 and the interface device 1 pick up the container from the ground; better movement of the forklift 3 when it is carrying the interface device; an aid to positioning the interface device 1 and therefore the container 2 on the storage bin 4 by centering it in relation to the guide rails 40; an aid to emptying the container 2 by helping to position it correctly in relation to the available space in the storage bin 4; a reading identifying the container 2 and the storage bin 4 and other associated data (the container 2 as well as the storage bin may include for example a barcode type label).

[0063] The display devices 9 transmit all information to data processing devices internal to the equipment block 12A, which can then be transmitted remotely. The equipment block may also include RFID processing and communication devices to communicate, if necessary, with the container 2, the storage bin 4, or the forklift 3, which may be equipped with RFID chips.

[0064] The visualization means 9 may include a scanner for reading the fill profile in the storage bin 4.

[0065] The human-machine interface is designed to be within easy reach of the operator, such as a touchscreen tablet, and preferably uses a secure wireless communication technology. The human-machine interface communicates with the actuator control devices in equipment block 12B and with the data processing devices that receive data from the display devices 9. The human-machine interface controls, in particular: the spacing of the passages 17 and therefore of the interface profiles 13 relative to the spacing of the sleeves 22 of the container 2 (the spacing dimension can, for example, be known by the information retrieved from reading a barcode on the container by the display means 9); the locking of the gripping means 12' on the forks 30 of the forklift 3; the cylinder 53 to rotate the cam 52 to the different positions (open position for picking up the container 2, end of operation of the interface device 1, unlocking for tipping authorization and locking after lifting the container 2 after emptying); the forward and backward translational movement of the interface device 1 and therefore of the container 2 along the tracks 40 of the storage skip 4; stopping in the emptying position; the raising of container 2 (in particular for a container with a front axis) to the height by the lifting system 16 relative to the inside of the storage skip 4;pulling on the actuating member 24 to tilt the container 2 and empty it. ;

[0066] There figure 11 shows a variant of the interface device 1 which does not have a lifting system for the base 11A. In addition, the rolling or sliding members 15 are arranged at the distal front and rear ends of each of the side profiles 11-2 and 11-3. Each rolling or sliding member 15 has a bearing surface intended to bear against the upper end edge 40' of a conventional storage bin 4. Each rolling member 15 here forms a rotating roller or wheel with a rotating axis parallel to the general plane of the base 11A and perpendicular to the direction of the side profile.

[0067] There figure 12 Figure 15 shows a specific example of a rolling element. The rolling element is in the form of a cylindrical roller or wheel rotating on a horizontal axis. This example is notably used in the interface device of the figure 14 Each rolling element has at least one lateral flange 15" on the outer side of the device, which has a lower portion 15" projecting beyond the roller bearing surface. This 15" projecting portion acts as a guide stop along the outer wall of the storage bin 4. Another flange opposite the outer one could also project downwards to cooperate, if necessary, by way of a stop against the inner wall of the storage bin.

[0068] THE figures 13 , 13A et 13B illustrate another embodiment of an interface device 1A that is not intended to be transported by forklift but is permanently fixed to a dock where a storage container 4 is located below. The interface device 1A also includes a front part 11, a rear part 12, support means 13 for a handling container 2, a mobility structure 14 for translating the front part 11 relative to the rear part 12, and rolling or sliding elements 15 mounted on the front part 11. The rear part 12 further includes additional support means 13 for the container 2 when the mobility structure 14 is folded in order to support the front part 11 and the container 2 in mid-air.The additional support means 13" for the rear part 12 form long, fork-like elements that cooperate with the support means 13 of the front part 11, in particular by inserting themselves into the hollow interface profiles 13 and the sleeves 22 of the container 2. The spacing of the additional support elements 13" can be adjusted in a similar manner to the fork passages 17 of the first embodiment. The interface device 1A is fixed by its rear part 12 to the end of a discharge platform below which the storage bin 4 is intended to be installed. The interface device 1A further includes jacks 60 fixed to the rear part 12 and to the rear end of the mobility structure 14, the jacks 60 being able to pivot the front part 11 supported by the mobility structure 14 in order to lift it (. figure 13A ) just appropriately for the passage and positioning of the storage bin under the interface device 1A. Indeed, it is necessary to lift the front section 11 with the rolling or sliding elements 15 to bring the storage bin 4 underneath (which is slid by pushing against the quay), then the cylinders 60 are actuated again to lower the front section 11 so that the rolling or sliding elements 15 rest on the edge 40' of the longitudinal sides of the storage bin. For the use of the interface device 1A, the handling container 2, positioned on the support means 13 of the front section 11 of said interface device, can be translated over the storage bin and away from the quay via the mobility structure 14 to fill the storage bin along its length.As explained above, the translation is aided by the rolling elements 15 positioned on the front part 11 of the interface device and along the lateral sides.

[0069] Note that depending on the load to be translated by the mobility structure 14, the cylinders 8 will be adapted. For larger cylinders 8, the interface device 1A may include supports 80 arranged on the front part 11, the supports 80 serving to support the cylinders 8 in the rest position (the cylinders being cantilevered).

[0070] THE figures 14, 14A And 14Bshow another embodiment of an interface device 1B of the invention. The interface device 1B does not need to be transportable by a forklift and therefore does not necessarily require forklift forklift pockets. The interface device 1B is fixed to the ground while including the front part 11 raised to the height of the top surface of a storage bin 4. A handling container 2 located at ground level and on the interface device 1B can be brought up to the height of the bin 4 and then moved over and along the bin. The interface device 1B is designed like the other interface devices 1 and 1A to be translated over and along a storage bin 4 by means of the mobility structure 14 to move the front part 11 relative to the rear part 12 ( figure 14B ). The front part 11 includes a lifting system 16 which is of a different design from that of the lifting system of the interface device 1 of the figure 1 The lifting system 16, which is coupled to the support means 13, allows the handling container 2 to be raised and lowered, in particular to lower the container 2 into a plane which is lower than the upper plane and support of the rolling or sliding elements 15 of the front part 11. In the folded position of the mobility structure 14, the front part 11 is outside the storage bin 4, and the handling container 2 can adopt a low position at ground level and a high position at the level of the upper plane of the storage bin.The example shown here is such that the rear section 12 forms a base structure for the interface device 1B and functions like an elevator cage for raising and lowering the handling container 2, while the front section 11, with its rolling or sliding means 15, remains at the height of the upper translation plane, above the storage bin (in the folded or deployed position of the mobility structure 14). In particular, the rear section 12 comprises its base 12A resting on the ground and a platform 120 at which the front section 11 is arranged. The support means 13 for the handling container 2, for example, form a frame on which the container 2 rests, and the lifting system 16 is connected to the frame 13. The interface system 5 for locking and unlocking the container 2 for tilting is constituted here by the lifting system 16.The lifting system 16 carried by the front part 11 is, by way of example, a system with (vertical) chains and motorized sprockets, which is capable of supporting and carrying the container 2, locking it in position and unlocking it to tilt it. The container 2 is lifted from the ground (. figure 14 ) via the 16-way elevator system up to the 120th floor ( figure 14A ), the mobility structure 14 being then in its folded position. The interface device 1Best is positioned at the end of the storage bin 4, the rear part 12 being against the bin with the stage 120 arranged outside the bin and at the height of the upper plane of the bin. The stage 120 has longitudinal members 121 which are aligned with the longitudinal walls of the bin 4 and whose upper edge 121' is coplanar with the upper end edge 40' of the longitudinal walls of the bin. The rolling or sliding members 15 rest, in the folded state of the mobility structure 14 ( figure 14 ), on the longitudinal members 121 (on the edge 121' of the longitudinal members 121). When the mobility structure 14 is set in motion, the rolling or sliding members 15 cooperate (roll or slide) with the edge 121' of the longitudinal members 121 and then continue their path cooperating with the edges 40' of the storage bin 4 ( figure 14B ).

[0071] There figure 15 This corresponds to interface device 1B of the previous embodiment, with a less conventional handling container 2. Container 2 is designed to include a rear tailgate 2' that can be folded down to open when unloading waste from a truck.

Claims

1. Handling interface device (1) comprising a chassis (10) provided with passages (17) designed to accommodate forks (30) of a forklift (3), support means (13) intended to carry the container and a structure (14) with a mobility function, intended to make the container mobile, characterized in that the structure (14) with mobility function operates in horizontal translation so that it is able to move in horizontal translation the container which is intended to be carried by the interface device.

2. Interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that the chassis (10) comprises two parts, a so-called front part (11) and a so-called rear part (12), the front part (11) comprising the support means (13) of the container and the rear part (12) comprising the fork passages (17), and in thatthe front part (11) is capable of being movable in translation relative to the rear part (12) via the structure (14) with mobility function.

3. Interface device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the structure (14) with mobility function connects the rear part (12) to the front part (11) and is capable of deploying and folding, preferably said structure (14) being actuated by cylinders (8), in particular said structure (14) comprising two opposite and parallel compass arms (14A, 14B).

4. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe support means (13) comprise two hollow and spaced interface profiles, which project towards the front of the interface device, the two interface profiles (13) being, on the one hand, capable of receiving the forks (30) of a forklift, and on the other hand, capable of being introduced into a pair of sleeves (22) which are usually used for the insertion of forks of a forklift, preferably the two interface profiles (13) having a generally U-shaped section.

5. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the support means (13), which are in particular two hollow interface profiles spaced apart for the passage of forks of a forklift, are arranged in alignment with the passages (17) designed to accommodate forks.

6. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe fork passages (17) are adjustable in spacing in an automated manner, preferably via jacks (6), and the support means (13), which are in particular two hollow and spaced interface profiles for the passage of forks of a forklift, are also adjustable in spacing, preferably are capable of being adjusted at the same time as the adjustment of the fork passages (17) by being mechanically connected to said passages outside of any translation operation.

7. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatit comprises gripping means (12') with a locking function which are intended and capable of cooperating with a forklift truck to lock said interface device on said truck, in particular by cooperating with a rising part (31) of the forks (30) of the forklift truck, and preferably the gripping means being movable by jacks (7) to couple and uncouple from said truck.

8. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the chassis (10) comprises a lifting system (16) coupled to the support means (13) and capable of raising in vertical translation and lowering said support means (13), preferably the lifting system (16) being actuable by jacks.

9. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatit comprises an automated locking and unlocking interface system (5) intended to ensure the blocking and unlocking of the tilting of a container, in particular the locking and unlocking interface system (5) comprising a movable locking and unlocking part (51) which is fixed to the interface device, in particular at the front of the interface device, as well as automated actuation means (53) of the movable part (51), and a fixed part (50) in the form of an adaptation kit part, which is intended to be fixed to a tilting actuating member (24) with which a container intended to be carried by the interface device is provided, the movable part (51) being able to cooperate with the fixed part (50) in a so-called active safety position preventing the tilting of the container and in an unlocked position allowing tilting.

10. Interface device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the fixed part (50) of the kit comprises a light (50') and the movable part (51) comprises a rotary cam (52) actuated by a jack (53) and, at the end of the cam (52), a hook (51') which is capable of cooperating with the light (50') of the fixed part, the hook (51') being arranged parallel to the general plane of the light (50') in the unlocked position and being arranged in the light (50') and at an angle non-parallel to the general plane of the light in the active safety position, the cam (52) being further capable of positioning the hook (51') outside the light (50') to ensure the installation of a container (2) on the support means (13) of said interface device.

11. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it includes rolling or sliding members (15).

12. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises display means (9) such as a camera and / or a scanner as well as at least one equipment block (12B) comprising the power supply, means for controlling different actuators (6, 7, 8, 53) integrated into the interface device, data processing means which receive data from the display means (9) as well as remote communication means for remotely controlling the actuators and remotely transmitting the data from the display means.

13. Use of an interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in thatthe device is used for at least one waste storage bin (4) and as for a container (2) which is tiltable, the device making it possible to dump the tiltable container (2) into the storage bin (4) both at the end of the bin and at a distance from this end, in particular for several storage bins (4) arranged juxtaposed against each other, the interface device being brought to the end of each of the bins.

14. Assembly comprising an interface device according to any one of the preceding claims and a container (2) in particular tilting, preferably the container (2) comprising two spaced sleeves (22) for the introduction of forks of a forklift.

15. Assembly according to the preceding claim and at least one storage bin (4) provided with longitudinal tracks with which the interface device (1) cooperates for its translational movement when the structure (14) with mobility function has been actuated.

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