Centring and supporting interface, and storage rack comprising such an interface

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a mechanical centring and supporting interface (1), comprising: - a first upper bearing portion (2) configured to bear on an upper portion of a vertical face of an upright, - a second lower bearing portion (6) configured to bear on a lower portion of the vertical face of the upright, - a supporting portion (4) comprising an upper supporting face (FS) configured to support the load (W), - a connecting and centring portion (3), connecting the first bearing portion (2) and the proximal end (40) of the supporting portion (4), having an upper guiding face (FG) for centring the load towards the supporting portion (4) by movement of the load under gravity, - a reinforcing portion (5), connecting the supporting portion (4) and the second bearing portion (6).

Description

Description Title: Centering and support interface, and storage rack comprising such an interface.

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a mechanical centering and support interface configured to be attached to a lateral cantilever of a storage rack upright to provide centering and support of a load on the storage rack.

[0002] The load may comprise a receptacle and products or articles contained in or on the receptacle. Such a load may typically have a mass less than or equal to 100 kg per receptacle, in particular per bin. The load may also comprise a receptacle, such as a pallet supporting products or articles. Such a load may then be considerably greater than 100 kg, and may weigh, for example, up to 1 tonne or more.

[0003] By receptacle, we mean any type of container or support, capable of receiving and storing products or articles, such as in particular a bin, a tray, a container, of any size and shape, without this list being exhaustive.

[0004] The present disclosure further relates to a storage rack comprising: - a vertical structure, comprising a set of vertical uprights, - typically a bracing system comprising one or typically several bracing devices distributed over the height of the vertical structure, the or each bracing device mechanically connecting the uprights together, and in a significant manner - one or more pairs of mechanical interfaces according to the present disclosure.

[0005] The or each pair comprises a first interface and a second interface cantilevered relative to the uprights. Supporting portions of the first interface and the second interface are oriented towards each other, configured to provide: - the centering of a load inserted and deposited between the first interface and the second interface by the work of connecting and guiding portions of the two interfaces forming inclined ramps, then - the support of the load supported by the two support portions of the two interfaces, respectively on both sides of the load.

[0006] The present disclosure further relates to a storage system comprising a storage rack according to the present disclosure, and one or more receptacles configured to be supported in the storage rack, the or each receptacle supported by support portions of the interfaces of a pair of interfaces.

[0007] The present disclosure finds a very particular application in the field of storage systems, comprising at least one storage rack equipped with at least one interface according to the present disclosure, at least one receptacle capable of being stored on said rack and a transport system comprising at least one automatic guided vehicle, the transport system capable of gripping and depositing said receptacle in said rack. Technical field

[0008] The present disclosure relates to the field of warehouses which include storage racks. A storage rack typically comprises a vertical structure, formed by a set of vertical uprights, often in the form of vertical metal profiles.

[0009] Bracing devices, such as crossbars or similar, connect the uprights. These bracing devices are distributed over the height of the vertical structure and ensure the stability of the storage rack. The bracing devices free up several free storage spaces, depending on the height of the storage rack, configured to support loads, stacked at different rack height levels, between the rack uprights.

[0010] For this purpose, pairs of mechanical interfaces are secured to the uprights, to ensure the centering and support of the different loads at the level of the different storage spaces.

[0011] Throughout this Application, the mechanical interface specifically designates the mechanical connecting device within the scope of this disclosure, while the term bracket(s) more generally designates the mechanical connecting devices within the scope of the prior art. Prior art

[0012] In the state of the art known to the present Applicant, the mechanical devices connecting the rack to the load are generally in the form of brackets, which conventionally each comprise a section in three portions, namely: - an upper support portion, configured to be in plane support on two coplanar lateral faces of the two uprights, ensuring the fixing of the bracket by fixing members, very often rivets, - a support portion extending substantially cantilevered from the uprights, typically horizontally or close to horizontally, and therefore substantially perpendicular to the first support portion, the support portion ending in a free edge, - a connecting and guiding portion connecting the support portion and the support portion, this connecting portion comprising a guiding face inclined towards the support portion.

[0013] The brackets extend longitudinally each along a horizontal X direction, and vertically along a vertical Z direction. The aforementioned section in three portions is determined along a plane parallel to YZ. The inclined guide face forms a ramp configured to ensure the centering of a load under the effect of gravity, in particular when the load is off-center during its unloading along the horizontal Y direction.

[0014] Such brackets according to such a state of the art are conventionally obtained in a single piece by shaping, typically by the techniques of profiling a metal sheet, in order to form the three portions of the bracket.

[0015] This three-part geometry (support portion, supporting portion and connecting portion) is systematic in the field of storage systems comprising racks, and served by a transport system comprising automated guided vehicles, the system being capable of picking up and depositing items in said racks. Such storage systems are called ASRS according to the English acronym "Automated Storage and Retrieval System" (in French, "Automatic Storage and Retrieval System").

[0016] Such storage systems are disclosed in particular by document WO 2019 / 072432 of the present Applicant.

[0017] As can be seen from the figures of document WO 2019 / 072432, each bracket is formed by a shaped sheet metal, in one piece, the section of which consists of the three aforementioned portions, serving respectively for fixing the bracket, for centering the load, and finally for supporting the centered load.

[0018] As disclosed by this document WO2019 / 072432, automatic guided vehicles are configured to pick up receptacles of products or articles supported by the brackets in the storage racks, and transport them to another location, typically another storage location or to an order preparation station where said articles are intended to be brought together so as to constitute an order for an end customer.

[0019] For this purpose, the automated guided vehicles may include robots having means of locomotion and guidance in the workshop. These robots may move longitudinally in an aisle separating two racks, namely “shelf” robots moving on the floor of the workshop and capable of carrying heavy loads, or even, preferably, robots capable of moving both on the floor, but also equipped with mechanical climbing means, allowing them to also move vertically on the racks.

[0020] According to this latter configuration, said robots may have a chassis equipped with climbing means. Typically, at least two motorized toothed wheels are configured to mesh with the links of a substantially tensioned roller chain, or with the teeth of a rack extending along an upright of said shelving. The toothed wheels may typically have axes substantially orthogonal to the axes of the rolling wheels of said trolley.

[0021] As disclosed by WO 2019 / 072432, the trolley of the automatic guided vehicle also has a gripping device comprising a support movable relative to the chassis which is configured to move from a retracted position for loading the bin onto the chassis of the vehicle in which the support is typically housed on the chassis, and to a deployed unloading position in which the movable support extends cantilevered from the chassis to unload / deposit the bin, typically on one of the pairs of brackets of the storage rack.

[0022] Thus, autonomous robots can also have means of locomotion and orientation, making them capable of moving in three dimensions. In addition to the two flat dimensions generally associated with the floor on which the robots move, there is a third vertical dimension associated with the racks on which the robots are able to climb and descend. According to this configuration, said robots have means of locomotion and climbing, allowing them to move vertically, going up and down along the warehouse racks. Examples of this technology are found, among others, in documents WO 2018 / 189110, but also WO 2020 / 056175, EP 3 288 865 and WO 2022 / 089811.

[0023] The present disclosure is in no way limited to the storage system comprising such type of automatic vehicles moving in three dimensions.

[0024] Thus, from the point of view of the movement of said automatically guided vehicles, these may be trajectories in two dimensions only, that is to say on a plane. In this respect, said autonomous vehicles have means of locomotion and orientation capable of making their movements possible in these two dimensions. The floor of the warehouse or more generally of the retrieval and storage system may constitute the plane on which said autonomous vehicles move. An example illustrating this technology is accessible in patent application WO 2007 / 149712. According to another known configuration, the racks arranged in the warehouse delimit at their top a flat surface on which autonomous vehicles can also move. Patent application WO 2015 / 104263 illustrates this technology, for example.

[0025] The present Applicant operates such storage and transport systems and more particularly those comprising automatic vehicles moving in three dimensions.

[0026] For information purposes only, and without limitation, the receptacles can be bins with a bottom wall and four side walls, and are typically 650 mm x 450 mm (length by width) in size. The bin can have different heights. The length dimension (650 mm) typically extends parallel to the longitudinal X direction of the brackets, i.e. along a depth direction of the storage rack, parallel to the direction of insertion or extraction during loading or unloading operations.

[0027] A pair of brackets can be sized to support a single tray. Each bracket in the pair is then typically slightly longer than the length dimension of the tray (650mm). A pair of brackets can also be sized to support two trays, side by side, in two offset positions along the length of the brackets. Each bracket is then typically sized slightly longer than twice the length dimension of the tray (650mm x 2 or 1300mm).

[0028] Such storage and transport systems (including automated guided vehicles) are typically configured to support so-called "light" loads, i.e. in the order of 30-40 kg per bin, typically 34 kg in service conditions.

[0029] A pair of brackets for supporting a single bin must be able to support a load of 34 kg and the repetitive loading / unloading operations associated with this load, while a pair of brackets for supporting two bins, one next to the other, must be able to withstand a double load of 68 kg, and the repetitive loading / unloading operations associated with this load.

[0030] Such storage and transport systems, especially storage racks loaded with such bins, must still be able to support the load, in safety conditions, and which takes into account a possible increase in mass of the products contained in the containers, when a fire safety system sprays water on the storage racks supporting the containers filled with products. In safety conditions, it is typically envisaged that the container and the water-soaked products (contained in this container) can reach a load of 100 kg. Such an increase in mass is particularly observable when the products or articles contained in the receptacle are packaged in a water-retaining material, typically cardboard or a similar material capable of absorbing a large quantity of water.

[0031] A pair of brackets for supporting a single bin must be able to support a load of 100 kg, while a pair of brackets for supporting two bins, one next to the other on the bracket, must be able to withstand a load of 200 kg, in safe conditions.

[0032] It is therefore customary to size the sheets forming the brackets with a sufficient thickness to obtain robustness of the brackets respecting these specifications: - not only in service conditions, under penalty of observing alterations / deformations of the bracket during use, typically in fatigue under repeated constraints, during loading and unloading operations of the load (i.e. the bins filled with products), typically robotic, on the rack brackets, but also, - in safety conditions, in order to take into account mass gain, particularly due to water spraying.

[0033] According to the aforementioned design of the brackets according to the state of the art (with a section consisting of three portions), it is thus customary to provide a sheet thickness (typically steel) of the order of 2 mm (or more) to comply with these specifications. Such a thickness dimensioning meeting these specifications results in a linear density of the bracket greater than or equal to 1.8 kg / m typically between 1.8 kg / m and 2.4 kg / m along the longitudinal X direction of the bracket. According to the inventors' observations, these brackets can represent almost up to half the weight of the storage rack (i.e. comprising the vertical structure with the vertical uprights, the bracing devices and the said brackets).

[0034] Generally speaking, there has always been a need to reduce the amount of metal used in the manufacture of storage racks, with the aim of achieving financial gains, as well as reducing the inherent environmental impacts.

[0035] However, document DE 10 2016 120 869 discloses a mechanical and support interface formed by a single-piece body, obtained by profiling a metal sheet, and until a tubular profile is obtained, which makes it possible to obtain improved performance in terms of rigidity and in particular with a “triangular hollow” profile. The profiling method provides in particular, for obtaining the hollow profile, to link the two ends of the metal sheet constituted respectively by the first edge of the sheet and the second U-shaped edge, opposite which encloses the first edge by closing the hollow profile. The two linked ends form a projection towards the rear of the interface, perpendicular to a support portion, this projection configured to penetrate a notch made in an upright.

[0036] DE 10 2016 120 869 thus discloses a support and centering interface comprising, delimited by folding / bending lines, parallel to each other: - a connecting and centering portion, inclined, a support portion - a portion of reinforcement, - a (single) support portion configured to come into continuous support on a vertical face of the upright over the height of the upright.

[0037] According to the inventors' findings, the length of the unfolded sheet of such an interface resting on a closed-section profile is significant.

[0038] Document ES 1 073 137 U also discloses an interface comprising - a single-piece body, obtained by folding a metal sheet, and forming a first portion, a connecting and centering portion, a support portion, and a reinforcing portion, terminated by a second portion, the different portions delimited by fold / bend lines, - two support plates, ensuring the body is fixed to two uprights of a shelf.

[0039] Also known from document CH 551 327 (A) is a support interface formed by a sheet metal profile (or metal sheets) which is of closed section, except at the base which has a continuous slot between two edges intended to engage with a fixing element. Thus, the shaped sheet the profiled sheet defines, delimited by folding / bending lines parallel to each other, a centering portion, a support portion and a reinforcement portion.

[0040] According to the inventors' findings, whether it is document ES 1 073 137 U or CH 551 327 (A), the shaped sheet defining the support, centering and reinforcement portions and forming the body in one piece cannot be fixed directly to the surface of the uprights, but only by means of specific fixings of the interface, namely the support flanges of ES 1 073 137 U, or the fixing elements of CH 551 327. Summary

[0041] This disclosure significantly improves this situation.

[0042] According to a first aspect, there is provided a mechanical centering and support interface, configured to be fixed in lateral overhang of an upright of a rack to ensure the centering and support of a load on the rack, the upright extending in a vertical direction Z1, said interface comprising: - a first, upper support portion, configured to come to bear on an upper portion of a vertical face of the upright, intended to ensure the fixing of the interface on the upright, - a second, lower support portion, configured to come to bear on a lower portion of the vertical face of the upright, - a support portion, comprising an upper support face, configured to provide support for the load, the support portion extending from a proximal end to a distal end away from the first support portion and the second support portion, - a connecting and centering portion, connecting the first support portion and the proximal end of the support portion, having an upper guide face ensuring the centering of the load towards the support portion by displacement of the load under gravity, - a reinforcing portion, connecting the distal end of the support portion and the second support portion, forming a reinforcing leg.

[0043] The features set out in the following paragraphs may optionally be implemented. They may be implemented independently of each other, or in combination with each other:

[0044] According to one embodiment, said interface is made of metal, typically steel, and said interface has a linear density along a direction X1 in length which is less than or equal to 1.5 kg / m, in particular between 0.8 kg / m and 1.3 kg / m.

[0045] According to one embodiment, said interface comprises a single-piece body formed by a shaped metal sheet and extending continuously to form, from top to bottom in the direction of the upright, successively: - the first support portion, - the connecting and centering portion, - the support portion, - the reinforcement portion and, - the second support portion.

[0046] The first support portion, the connecting and centering portion, the support portion, the reinforcement portion and the second support portion are delimited respectively by folding / bending lines of the metal sheet, parallel to each other, oriented in a longitudinal direction of the interface, comprising: - a first folding / bending line between, on the one hand, the first support portion, and on the other hand, the connecting and centering portion, - a second folding / bending line between, on the one hand, the connecting and centering portion, and on the other hand, the support portion, - a third folding / bending line between, on the one hand the support portion and, on the other hand, the reinforcement portion, - a fourth folding / bending line between, on the one hand, the reinforcement portion and, on the other hand, the second support portion.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the metal sheet has a thickness less than or equal to 1.5 mm, typically between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm. In particular, the thickness of the metal sheet is less than or equal to 1 mm, in particular between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the unfolded length of the sheet along a section perpendicular to the folding / bending lines is between 170 mm and 210 mm.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the first support portion and / or the second support portion comprises / comprises several fixing tabs, configured to ensure the fixing of a profile forming an upright having fixing openings, by inserting the fixing tab or tabs into one or more of the fixing openings of the profile.

[0050] According to one embodiment, at least one of the tabs, directed downwards, is configured to hook a fixing opening and is provided with an anti-lifting device comprising an elastic tooth, configured to come into abutment with an upper edge of the fixing opening, opposing the unhooking of the fixing tab.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the first support portion and / or the second support portion comprises openings for fixing members, such as rivets.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the first support portion is double-skinned, obtained by folding the metal sheet back on itself, the fixing openings passing through the double skin.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the first support portion and the second support portion are coplanar, extending along a plane X1Z1 parallel to the vertical face of the upright on which the first support portion and the second support portion following two positions of the upright offset along the vertical direction Z1 of the upright.

[0054] According to one embodiment, the connecting and centering portion extends from the first support portion to the proximal end of the support portion, in a direction inclined relative to the vertical direction Z1 at an angle A1 of between 25° and 45°, such as 33°, ensuring an inclination of the guide face, descending towards the support portion.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the connecting and centering portion extends from the first support portion to the proximal end of the support portion, in a direction inclined relative to a horizontal direction Y1 at an angle A10 of between 45° and 65°, the direction Y1 perpendicular to the first support portion and to the second support portion.

[0056] According to one embodiment, the support portion extends from the proximal end to its distal end, following a downward inclination relative to a horizontal direction Y1, according to a non-zero angle A2 of between 0° and 5°, the direction Y1° perpendicular to the first support portion and to the second support portion.

[0057] According to one embodiment, the reinforcement portion extends from the distal end of the support portion to the second support portion, approaching the second support portion, and following a downward inclination relative to a horizontal direction Y1, at an angle A3 of between 5° and 30°, the direction Y1 perpendicular to the first support portion and to the second support portion.

[0058] According to one embodiment, said interface extends lengthwise along a horizontal direction X1, parallel to the first support portion and to the second support portion, comprising along the direction X1: - a first end, open, configured to allow the insertion or extraction of a load according to a movement of the load along the direction X1, - a second, closed end, comprises stop means, projecting upwards from the connecting and centering portion and / or the support portion configured to ensure blocking of the load when it is inserted in the X1 direction.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the stop means comprise - - a first stop, formed by a tab of the metal sheet, projecting from the connecting and centering portion via a folding / bending line, between the first stop and the connecting and centering portion, - a second stop formed by a tab of the metal sheet, projecting from the support portion via a folding / bending line, extending between the second stop and the portion. Advantageously, the tab forming the first stop and the tab forming the second stop have two portions of the overlapping tabs secured to each other by at least one point of attachment between tabs, typically obtained by welding, clinching or stapling.

[0060] According to one embodiment, said interface may consist of said single-piece body formed by a shaped metal sheet.

[0061] According to one embodiment, said interface may consist, according to a section seen along a plane parallel to the plane Y1Z1, of the five portions: - the first support portion, - the connecting and centering portion, - the support portion, - the reinforcement portion and, - the second support portion.

[0062] According to one embodiment, the second support portion extends between the fourth folding / bending line and up to a lower free edge of the shaped metal sheet.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the first support portion extends between the first folding / bending line and up to an upper free edge of the shaped metal sheet.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the first support portion and the second support portion extend respectively, from the first fold line and the fourth fold line, outwards in two opposite directions.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the section of the shaped metal sheet, along a plane perpendicular to the direction of the folding / bending lines, is an open section.

[0066] According to a second aspect, the present disclosure relates to a storage rack comprising: - a vertical structure, comprising a set of vertical uprights, - a bracing system comprising one or more bracing devices distributed over the height of the vertical structure, mechanically connecting the uprights together, - one or more pairs of interfaces according to the present disclosure, the pair of interfaces or each pair of interfaces comprising: - a first interface fixed by the first support portion and the second support portion to at least two uprights of the vertical structure, - a second interface fixed by the first support portion and the second support portion to at least two other uprights of the vertical structure, and in which the support portions and the connecting and guiding portions belonging respectively to the first interface and to the second interface are oriented towards each other configured to ensure the centering of a load inserted and deposited between the first interface and the second interface by the work of the connecting and guiding portions of the two interfaces and the support of a load supported by the two support portions of the two interfaces on both sides of the load.

[0067] According to a third aspect, the present disclosure relates to a storage system for a warehouse comprising receptacles and at least one storage rack according to the present disclosure comprising several pairs of interfaces, distributed according to the height of the storage rack, each receptacle configured to be supported on both sides of the receptacle simultaneously and respectively by the support portion of the first interface and the support portion of the second interface. The storage system may have a transport system comprising at least one automatic guided vehicle, said system of transport configured to pick up and place receptacles in said storage racks.

[0068] According to one embodiment of the storage system, the vertical structure of the storage rack, in particular at least one of the uprights, comprises a rack extending along the height of the vertical structure, or a tensioned chain, extending along the height of the vertical structure. Said at least one automatic guided vehicle comprises a chassis, carrying a rolling mechanism on a horizontal surface such as the ground, and climbing means comprising at least one toothed wheel configured to mesh with the rack or with the links of the tensioned chain so as to allow the automatic guided vehicle to climb along the vertical structure of the storage rack.

[0069] Said at least one automated guided vehicle may comprise a deployable loading / unloading system configured to: - loading a receptacle from a first retracted position above the chassis to a second deployed position for which the receptacle is centered then supported by simultaneously pressing on the first interface and the second interface, or, - extract a receptacle from the second position resting on the first interface and the second interface of a pair of interfaces and load it into the first retracted position.

[0070] The present disclosure finds a particular application for a load comprising one or more receptacles taken up by a pair of mechanical interfaces supporting the receptacle(s), up to 100 kg per supported receptacle. Brief description of the drawings

[0071] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analyzing the attached drawings, in which: Fig. 1A

[0072] [Fig. 1A] is a schematic front view of a storage rack according to the present disclosure comprising a pair of mechanical interfaces according to the present disclosure, comprising a first interface and a second interface, mechanical, oriented towards each other, configured to ensure the guidance and support of a load such as a receptacle (filled with product(s) or empty). Fig. 1B

[0073] [Fig. 1 B] is a top view of the storage rack of Fig. 1A. Fig. 2A

[0074] [Fig. 2A] is a view of an embodiment of a mechanical interface according to the present disclosure obtained from a 0.6 mm thick (plus or minus 0.05 mm) metal sheet, comprising from top to bottom: - the first support portion, notably double-skinned - the connecting and guiding portion, - the support portion, - the reinforcement portion, - the second support portion. Fig. 2B

[0075] [Fig. 2B] is a view of Figure 2A, illustrating in detail the first support portion, obtained by folding the sheet back on itself so as to form a double skin, the first support portion comprising openings passing through the double skin for fixing by rivet(s). Fig. 3A

[0076] [Fig. 3A] is a view of an embodiment of a mechanical interface according to the present disclosure obtained from a 0.8 mm thick (plus or minus 0.05 mm) metal sheet, comprising from top to bottom: - the first support portion, single skin - the connecting and guiding portion, - the support portion, - the reinforcement portion, - the second support portion. Fig. 3B

[0077] [Fig. 3B] is a view of Fig. 3A, illustrating in detail the first single-skin bearing portion, the first bearing portion including openings for fastening by rivet(s). Fig. 4

[0078] [Fig. 4] is a perspective view of a mechanical interface according to a third embodiment, comprising the first support portion and the second support portion which notably comprise respectively, a first fixing tab configured to be inserted into a first, upper opening of a post profile and a second fixing tab configured to be inserted into a second, lower opening, the first support portion notably provided with an elastic tooth of an anti-lifting device, which cooperates with an upper edge of the first opening so as to prevent untimely detachment of the first fixing tab Fig. 5A

[0079] [Fig. 5A] is a perspective view of an interface (right) according to a first embodiment, 1315 mm long, configured to support two receptacles, in particular two bins (650 mm x 450 mm) along the length of the interface. Fig. 5B

[0080] [Fig. 5B] is a detail view illustrating a connection at a clinching point (or at a welding point) between a folded tab between, on the one hand, a folded tab of a first stop extending the connecting and centering portion, and on the other hand, a folded tab of a second stop extending the support portion. Fig. 6A

[0081] [Fig. 6A] is a perspective view of an interface (right), of length configured to support two receptacles, in particular two bins (650 mm x 450 mm) along the length of the interface. Fig. 6B

[0082] [Fig. 6B] is a detail view illustrating a folded tab of a first stop extending the connecting and centering portion, and on the other hand, a folded tab of a second stop extending the support portion, the first stop and the second stop overlapping. Fig. 7A

[0083] [Fig. 7A] is a perspective view of an interface (right) according to a third embodiment, 657 mm long, configured to support a single receptacle, in particular a single tray (650 mm x 450 mm) along the length of the interface. Fig. 7B

[0084] [Fig. 7B] is a detail view illustrating a folded tab of a first stop extending the connecting and centering portion, and on the other hand, a folded tab of a second stop extending the support portion, the first stop and the second stop partially overlapping. Description of the embodiments

[0085] The drawings and description below contain, for the most part, elements of a certain character. They may therefore not only serve to better understand this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.

[0086] Also, the present disclosure relates to a mechanical centering and support interface 1, configured to be fixed in lateral overhang of an upright M1, M2, M3, M4 of a rack to ensure the centering and support of a load W on the rack, the upright extending in a vertical direction Z1.

[0087] In Figure 1A, and in general, the horizontal direction X1 extends along a longitudinal direction of the mechanical interface 1, and the horizontal direction Y1 extends along a direction orthogonal to the direction X1.

[0088] In Figure 1A is represented a pair of two interfaces 1, each interface 1 comprising: - a first support portion 2, upper, configured to come to bear on a upper portion of a vertical face of the upright, intended to ensure the fixing of the interface on the upright, - a second, lower support portion 6, configured to come to bear on a lower portion of the vertical face of the upright.

[0089] The first support portion 2 is fixed to the upright(s), typically by fixing members, such as rivets, or by fixing tabs, described below. The second support portion 6 is not necessarily fixed to the upright(s), and may simply rest on the uprights. The second support portion may, however, be fixed to the upright(s), typically by fixing members, such as rivets, or by the fixing tabs.

[0090] Each interface 1 can typically be fixed to a pair of uprights, namely a first upright M1 (or M3) and a second upright M2 (or M4), with positions offset along a lengthwise direction of the interface 1. Said interface can be coupled to the two uprights, respectively at the longitudinal ends of said mechanical interface 1.

[0091] The first upper support portion 2, intended to ensure the fixing of the interface on the upright, is then configured to come to bear simultaneously on the two uprights, on an upper portion of a vertical face of the first upright M1 (or M3) and to bear on an upper portion of a vertical face of the second upright M2 (or M4).

[0092] The second, lower, support portion 6 is configured to simultaneously bear on the two uprights (M1 and M2 or M3 and M4), on a lower portion of the vertical face of the first upright M1 (resp. M3) and on a lower portion of the vertical face of the second upright M2 (resp. M4).

[0093] According to one embodiment, the first support portion 2 and the second support portion 6 may be coplanar, extending along a plane X1Z1 parallel to the vertical face of the upright(s) M1 (or M2), M3 (or M4) on which the first support portion 2 and the second support portion 6 bear according to two positions of the upright (in particular the first upright M1 or the second upright M2) offset along the vertical direction Z1 of the upright M1, M2.

[0094] The height of the mechanical interface, which can extend between the first support portion 2 and the second support portion 6, is typically between 7 cm and 11 cm, in particular between 8 cm and 10 cm and for example 89.2 mm (figure 2A) or even 93.3 mm (figure 3A).

[0095] Such an interface further comprises a support portion 4, comprising an upper support face FS configured to provide support for the load W. The support portion 4 extends from a proximal end 40 to a distal end 4, moving away from the first support portion 2 and the second support portion 6.

[0096] The support portion 4 may extend from the proximal end 40 to its distal end 41, following a downward inclination relative to a horizontal direction Y1, at an angle A2 strictly greater than 0°, typically between 0° and 5°, in particular between 1° and 3°, such as 2°. The choice of a non-zero angle proves to be particularly advantageous, with a view to centering the load to be stored on the rack. The direction Y1° is perpendicular to the first support portion 2 and to the second support portion 6. The length of the support portion 4 from the proximal end 40 to the distal end 41 may be between 2 cm and 6 cm, in particular between 3 cm and 5 cm, such as 4 cm.

[0097] Said interface 1 also has a connecting and centering portion 3, connecting the first support portion 2 and the proximal end 40 of the support portion 4. This connecting and centering portion 3 has an upper guide face FG ensuring the centering of the load towards the support portion 4 by displacement of the load under gravity.

[0098] For this purpose, the connecting and centering portion 3 can extend from the first support portion 2 to the proximal end 40 of the support portion 4, in a direction inclined relative to the vertical direction Z1 at an angle A1 typically between 25° and 45°, such as 33°, ensuring an inclination of the guide face FG, descending towards the support portion 4.

[0099] In particular, the connecting and centering portion 3 can extend from the first support portion 2 to the proximal end 40 of the support portion 4, in a direction inclined relative to a horizontal direction Y1 according to a angle A10 between 45° and 65°, the direction Y1 perpendicular to the first support portion 2 and to the second support portion 6. The size of the connecting and centering portion 3, in the direction Y1, may be between 25 mm and 60 mm, such as 32.1 mm in figure 2A, or even 55 mm according to an example not illustrated.

[0100] In all cases, the angle of inclination A10 between the connecting and centering portion 3 and the horizontal direction Y1 is greater than the angle of inclination A2 between the support portion 4 and the horizontal direction Y1 which may be zero or preferably non-zero.

[0101] During unloading operations, in the event of poor centering, the guide face FG cooperates with the load W, to move it in the direction Y1, moving it away from the uprights in connection with the first support portion 2 and the second support portion 6.

[0102] Notably, a reinforcing portion 5 connects the distal end 41 of the support portion 4 and the second bearing portion 6, forming a reinforcing leg. Said interface may have a size in the direction Y1 of between 50 mm and 90 mm, in particular between 60 mm and 80 mm, such as 74.5 mm in FIGS. 2A and 3A. This size is measured between, on the one hand, the distal end 41 of the support portion, or even the junction zone between the reinforcing portion 5 and the distal end 41, and on the other hand, the plane passing through the first bearing portion 2 and the second bearing portion 6.

[0103] The reinforcement portion 5 can extend from the distal end 41 of the support portion 4 to the second support portion 6, approaching the second support portion 6, and following a downward inclination relative to a horizontal direction Y1, at an angle A3 of between 5° and 30°, in particular when the direction Y1 is perpendicular to the first support portion 2 and to the second support portion 3.

[0104] Generally speaking, the mechanical interface comprises or consists of five portions, and according to a section seen along a plane parallel to the Y1Z1 plane: - the first support portion 2, - the connecting and centering portion 3, - support portion 4, - the reinforcement portion 5 and, - the second support portion 6.

[0105] Such a five-part interface design 1, according to the present disclosure, makes it possible to significantly reduce the mass of the mechanical interface in order to comply with a given specification relating in particular to a maximum mass of the load in service and / or safety conditions, and in comparison with a three-part design according to the brackets of the state of the art.

[0106] For example, with regard to the application of mechanical interfaces for supporting receptacles, such as in particular trays (650 mm x 450 mm) and for compliance with the aforementioned conditions, namely 34 kg maximum in service conditions, and 100 kg maximum in safety conditions: 100 kg, it is advantageously possible to obtain a linear density along a direction X1 in length of the interface which is less than or equal to 1.5 kg / m, in particular between 0.8 kg / m and 1.3 kg / m.

[0107] These linear density values ​​are to be compared with the linear density of the brackets according to the state of the art which must be greater than or equal to 1.8 kg / m, very often between 1.8 kg / m and 2.4 kg / m along the longitudinal X direction of the bracket to comply with these same specifications. This is a considerable advance in that the mass of the interface according to the present disclosure can advantageously be approximately twice as light as the brackets according to the state of the art, for the same work and for the same typically metallic interface / bracket material, typically a steel, in particular a galvanized steel whose density is between 7 and 8, typically 7.8.

[0108] Said mechanical interface 1 may comprise (or consist of) a single-piece body formed by a shaped metal sheet and extending continuously to form, typically, in section (along a plane parallel to the plane Y1Z1), typically from top to bottom along the direction of the upright M1; M2; M3; M4, successively: - the first support portion 2, - the connecting and centering portion 3, - support portion 4, - the reinforcement portion 5 and, - the second support portion 6.

[0109] Also : - the first support portion 2 and the second support portion 6 extend respectively, from the first fold line 23 and the fourth fold line 56, outwards in two opposite directions, namely in a direction directed upwards from the first fold line 23 in the case of the first support portion 2, and in a direction directed downwards from the fourth fold line 56 in the case of the second support portion, - the section of the shaped metal sheet, along a plane perpendicular to the direction of the folding / bending lines, is an open section.

[0110] In general, and as illustrated in particular by the examples of the figures, the first support portion 2, the connecting and centering portion 3, the support portion 4, the reinforcing portion 5 and the second support portion 6 are delimited respectively by folding / bending lines 23, 34, 45, 56 of the metal sheet (typically a steel, in particular galvanized) parallel to each other, oriented along the longitudinal direction X1 of the interface, comprising: - a first folding / bending line 23 between, on the one hand, the first support portion 2, and on the other hand, the connecting and centering portion 3, - a second folding / bending line 34 between, on the one hand, the connecting and centering portion 3, and on the other hand, the support portion 4, - a third folding / bending line 45 between, on the one hand, the support portion 4 and, on the other hand, the reinforcement portion 5, - a fourth folding / bending line 56 between, on the one hand, the reinforcement portion 5 and, on the other hand, the second support portion 6.

[0111] Said mechanical interface according to the present disclosure, in particular the formation of the folding / bending lines 23, 34, 45, 56, can typically be obtained by cold profiling techniques, and in particular at lower cost.

[0112] The metal sheet may be less than or equal to 1.5 mm thick, typically between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm. In particular, the thickness of the sheet of metal is less than or equal to 1 mm, in particular between 0.5 mm and 1 mm. Figures 2A and 2B illustrate an embodiment of the mechanical interface with a thickness of 0.6 mm to plus or minus 0.05 mm. Figures 3A and 3B illustrate another embodiment of the mechanical interface with a thickness of 0.8 mm to plus or minus 0.05 mm. These two examples of Figures 2A, 2B and 3A, AB both make it possible to meet the aforementioned specifications (support for receptacles such as 650 mm x 450 mm bins, maximum 34 kg per bin under service conditions, and maximum 100 kg per bin under safety conditions).

[0113] These thickness values ​​are to be compared to a minimum thickness of 2 mm for the brackets of the state of the art, and for compliance with the same specifications. Thus, and for example the thickness value 0.8 mm according to the present disclosure of figures 3A and 3B, is reduced by a ratio equal to 2.5 compared to the state of the art which has a thickness value of 2 mm.

[0114] Notably according to the present disclosure the unfolded length of the sheet along a section perpendicular to the folding / bending lines 23, 34, 45, 56 can typically be between 170 mm and 210 mm. Such a range of values ​​is to be compared with the unfolded length of the sheet of a bracket according to the state of the art along a section perpendicular to the folding / bending lines which is certainly lower, but only by a ratio of 1.5.

[0115] As understandable, the gain in terms of thickness reduction according to the design of the present disclosure (typically 2.5) is, in ratio, largely higher than the ratio (typically 1.5) of the increase in the unfolded length of the sheet. Consequently, the loss of mass, advantageously sought, due to the reduction in thickness according to the present disclosure largely exceeds the undesired gain in mass due to the increase in the unfolded length, which advantageously makes it possible to achieve a reduction in mass, and for example a linear density of 0.8 kg / m to 1.3 kg / m according to the present disclosure, compared to a range between 1.8 kg / m and 2.4 kg / m according to the state of the art and always in compliance with the specifications set out above.

[0116] Generally, the first support portion 2 and / or the second support portion 6 can typically be fixed to the upright M1, M2, M3, M4, or even to other beams of the rack, by means of fixing members such as rivets. For this purpose, the first support portion 2 and / or the second support portion 6 comprises openings 02 for fixing members, such as rivets.

[0117] According to one embodiment, the first support portion 2 may be double-skinned, obtained by folding the metal sheet onto itself, the fixing openings 02 passing through the double skin. Such an embodiment makes it possible to reinforce the first support portion, in particular with regard to the risks of deformation / tearing of the sheet at the contact zone between the interface and the fixing members. Such an embodiment is illustrated for information purposes in Figure 2B for which the thickness of the metal sheet is only 0.6 mm, and typically with a view to complying with the aforementioned specifications. Such an embodiment finds a particular application when the first single-skinned support portion presents risks of deformation / tearing, at the fixing.

[0118] According to one or more embodiments, and in particular as illustrated in the figures, the second support portion 6 can extend between the fourth folding / bending line 56 and up to a free, lower edge of the shaped metal sheet.

[0119] According to an embodiment, the first support portion 2 extends between the first folding / bending line 23 and up to an upper free edge of the shaped metal sheet.

[0120] According to one embodiment, said mechanical interface 1 extending lengthwise along a horizontal direction X1, parallel to the first support portion 2 and to the second support portion 6, said interface 1 may comprise along the longitudinal direction X1: - a first end E1, open, configured to allow the insertion or extraction of a load according to a displacement of the load along the direction X1 in particular by sliding the load on the connecting and centering portion and / or by sliding the load on the support portion, - a second end E2, closed, comprises stop means B3, B4, projecting upwards from the connecting and centering portion 3 and / or from the portion of support 4 configured to ensure blocking of the load when it is inserted in the X1 direction.

[0121] In Figure 1B, the load W, in particular the receptacle, is inserted between a pair of interfaces 1A, 1B, substantially by a displacement of the load along the direction X1, in a direction oriented from the first end E1 towards the second end E2 of the interface 1. It is noted that the insertion of the load, in particular of the receptacle, is carried out from a face of the rack, on the side of the first end E1, open, in the sense that this first end E1 is devoid of a stop on the side of this end. The stop means B3, B4, at the second end E2, are a safety device ensuring the blocking of the load.

[0122] Notably, the stop means B3, B4 may comprise: - a first stop B3, formed by a tab of the metal sheet, projecting from the connecting and centering portion 3 via a folding / bending line, between the first stop B3 and the connecting and centering portion 3, - a second stop B4 formed by a tab of the metal sheet, projecting from the support portion 4 via a folding / bending line, extending between the second stop B4 and the portion.

[0123] The folding / bending lines between the first stop B3 and the connecting and centering portion 3, or between the second stop B4 and the support portion 4 are typically oriented perpendicular to the direction X1, longitudinal of the interface 1.

[0124] The tongue forming the first stop B3 and the tongue forming the second stop B4 may have two portions of the tongues, overlapping, in particular an overlap along the direction Y1 and the direction Z1. According to an advantageous embodiment, the two tongues forming the two stops B3 and B4 are secured to each other by at least one point of attachment between tongues, typically obtained by welding, clinching or even stapling. Such a point of attachment between the tongues of the stops stiffens the mechanical interface 1.

[0125] According to one embodiment, the first support portion 2 and / or the second support portion 6 comprise several fixing tabs 7, configured to ensure the fixing of a profile forming an upright having fixing openings according to the height, by inserting the fixing tab or tabs into one or more of the fixing openings of the profile.

[0126] These tabs 7, typically in one piece with the metal sheet, are directed downwards, and are configured to hook the fixing openings of the upright. The uprights M1, M2, M3, M4 can thus typically take the form of profiles. Each interface 1, 1A, 1B, in particular right or left, can have two pairs of tabs, with a first pair of tabs 7 configured to hook two fixing openings on two height levels of a first upright M1 (or M3) and a second pair of tabs 7 configured to hook two fixing openings of a second upright M4 (or M5). The two tabs of each pair are located respectively on the first support portion 2 and on the second support portion 6, and as visible in FIG. 7B, for information purposes.

[0127] According to one embodiment, at least one of the tabs 7, directed downwards, is configured to hook a fixing opening and can advantageously be provided with an anti-lifting device comprising an elastic tooth 8, for example visible in FIG. 4, configured to come into abutment with an upper edge of the fixing opening, opposing the unhooking of the fixing tab 7. The elastic tooth 8 can typically be formed in one piece with the metal sheet.

[0128] The present disclosure further relates to a storage rack comprising: - a vertical structure, comprising a set of vertical uprights M1, M2, M3, M4, typically in the form of vertical profiles, - typically a bracing system comprising one or more ETR bracing devices distributed over the height of the vertical structure, mechanically connecting the uprights M1, M2, M3, M4 together - one or more pairs of interfaces 1 according to the present disclosure.

[0129] The interface pair or each interface pair includes: - a first interface 1 A fixed by the first support portion 2 and the second support portion 6 to at least two uprights M1, M2 of the vertical structure, - a second interface 1 B fixed by the first support portion 2 and the second support portion 6 to at least two other uprights M3, M4 of the vertical structure.

[0130] The two interfaces 1A and 1B, left and right, are oriented longitudinally along the X1 direction, and are typically symmetrical to each other along a plane of symmetry, median between the two interfaces 1A and 1B.

[0131] The support portions 4 and the connecting and guiding portions 3 belonging respectively to the first interface 1A and to the second interface 1B are oriented towards each other and configured to ensure the centering of a load W inserted and deposited between the first interface 1A and the second interface 1B by the work of the connecting and guiding portions 3 of the two interfaces 1A, 1B and the support of a load W supported respectively by the two support portions 4 of the two interfaces 1A, 1B, on both sides of the load.

[0132] The present disclosure also relates to a storage system for a warehouse comprising receptacles and at least one storage rack according to the present disclosure comprising several pairs of interfaces, distributed according to the height of the storage rack and at least one transport system comprising one (or even several) automatic guided vehicles, the transport system configured to pick up and place said receptacle in said storage rack.

[0133] Each receptacle is configured to be supported on both sides of the receptacle simultaneously and respectively by the support portion 4 of the first interface 1A and the support portion 4 of the second interface 1B.

[0134] Said automated guided vehicle may have means of locomotion and tracking in the storage system. In particular, it may have means of locomotion in two dimensions on a horizontal surface, and / or means of movement in three dimensions. According to the latter variant, said vehicle is then capable of moving vertically along the rack uprights.

[0135] For this purpose, the vertical structure of the storage rack, in particular at least one of the uprights, may comprise a rack CR1, CR2 extending along the height of the vertical structure, or a taut chain, extending along the height of the vertical structure.

[0136] The automatic guided vehicle comprises a chassis, in particular including a ground rolling mechanism, and climbing means comprising at least one toothed wheel configured to mesh with the rack CR1, CR2 or with the links of the tensioned chain so as to allow the automatic guided vehicle to climb along the vertical structure of the storage rack.

[0137] The automated guided vehicle includes a deployable loading / unloading system configured to: - load a receptacle from a first retracted position above the chassis to a second deployed position for which the receptacle is centered then supported by simultaneously pressing on the first interface 1A and the second interface 1B, or - extract a receptacle from the second position resting on the first interface 1A and the second interface 1B of a pair of interfaces 1A, 1B and load it in the first retracted position.

[0138] The interface according to the present disclosure, or the storage rack according to the present disclosure, or the system for transporting load W according to the present disclosure finds a particular application for a load comprising one or more receptacles taken up by a pair of mechanical interfaces supporting the bin(s), up to 100 kg per supported receptacle, in particular under safety conditions.

[0139] The load includes a receptacle in the form of a receptacle of up to 34 kg per receptacle under service conditions, and up to 100 kg per receptacle under safety load. The safety load of the interfaces comprising two trays with basic dimensions of 650 mm x 450 mm, and of variable height, can therefore reach 200 kg in the event of filling with water following activation of the automatic sprinkler system.

[0140] It is understood that if the interface according to the present disclosure has been previously described broadly in its application for supporting light loads (less than 100 kg per receptacle, in particular per bin), the present disclosure is absolutely not limited to supporting light loads, but is also suitable for supporting heavier loads such as pallets, in that it also makes it possible to achieve substantial weight savings. List of reference signs

[0141] - 1. Mechanical interface, - 1A, 1 B. First and second interface - 2. First support portion - 3. Connecting and centering portion, - 4. Support portion, - 40,41. Respectively proximal end and distal end (support portion), - 5. Connecting and centering portion, - 6. Second portion of support, - 23. First folding / bending line, - 34. Second folding / bending line, - 45 Third folding / bending line, - 56 Fourth folding / bending line, - 7. Fixing tabs, - 8. Elastic tooth (anti-lift device), - FS. Support face (support portion 4), - FG. Guide face (connecting and centering portion 5), - E1. First end (open), - E2. Second end (closed), - B3. Stop (connecting and centering portion), - B4. Stop (support portion) - M1, M2, M3, M4. Amounts, - ETR. Spacer device, - 02. Fixing openings.

Claims

Claims

1. Mechanical centering and support interface (1), configured to be fixed in lateral overhang of an upright (M1, M2, M3, M4) of a rack to ensure the centering and support of a load (W) on the rack, the upright extending in a vertical direction Z1, said interface (1) comprising: - a first upper support portion (2) configured to come into contact with an upper portion of a vertical face of the upright, intended to ensure the fixing of the interface on the upright, - a second lower support portion (6), configured to come to bear on a lower portion of the vertical face of the upright, - a support portion (4), comprising an upper support face (FS) configured to support the load (W), the support portion (4) extending from a proximal end (40) to a distal end (41) away from the first support portion (2) and the second support portion (6). - a connecting and centering portion (3), connecting the first support portion (2) and the proximal end (40) of the support portion (4), having an upper guide face (FG) ensuring the centering of the load towards the support portion (4) by displacement of the load under gravity, - a reinforcing portion (5), connecting the distal end (41) of the support portion (4) and the second support portion (6) by forming a reinforcing leg, said interface (1) comprising a single-piece body formed by a shaped metal sheet, extending continuously to form, from top to bottom in the direction of the upright (M1; M2; M3; M4), successively: - the first support portion (2), - the connecting and centering portion (3), - the support portion (4), - the reinforcement portion (5) and, - the second support portion (6), and in which the first support portion (2), the connecting and centering portion (3), the support portion (4), the reinforcing portion (5) and the second support portion are delimited respectively by folding / bending lines (23, 34, 45, 56) of CORRECTED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP the metal sheet, parallel to each other, oriented in a longitudinal direction of the interface, comprising: - a first folding / bending line (23) between, on the one hand, the first support portion (2), and on the other hand, the connecting and centering portion (3), - a second folding / bending line (34) between, on the one hand, the connecting and centering portion (3), and on the other hand, the support portion (4), - a third folding / bending line (45) between, on the one hand, the support portion (4) and, on the other hand, the reinforcement portion (5), - a fourth folding / bending line (56) between, on the one hand, the reinforcement portion (5) and, on the other hand, the second support portion (6), and in which the first support portion (2) and the second support portion (6) are coplanar, extending along a plane X1Z1 parallel to the vertical face of the upright (M1, M2) on which the first support portion (2) and the second support portion (6) bear according to two positions of the upright offset along the vertical direction Z1 of the upright (M1, M2).

2. Interface according to claim 1 in which said interface is made of metal, typically steel, and said interface has a linear density along a direction X1 in length which is less than or equal to 1.5 kg / m, in particular between 0.8 kg / m and 1.3 kg / m.

3. An interface according to claim 1 or 2, consisting of said one-piece body formed by a shaped metal sheet.

4. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the metal sheet has a thickness less than or equal to 1.5 mm, typically between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm.

5. Interface according to claim 4, wherein the thickness of the metal sheet is less than or equal to 1 mm, in particular between 0.5 mm and 1 mm.

6. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the unfolded length of the sheet along a section perpendicular to the folding / bending lines (23, 34, 45, 56) is between 170 mm and 210 mm. CORRECTED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP

7. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which the first support portion (2) and / or the second support portion (6) comprise several fixing tabs (7), configured to ensure the fixing of a profile forming an upright having fixing openings, by inserting the fixing tab or tabs into one or more of the fixing openings of the profile.

8. Mechanical interface according to claim 7, in which one or less of the downwardly directed tabs (7) is configured to hook a fixing opening and is provided with an anti-lifting device comprising an elastic tooth (8), configured to abut an upper edge of the fixing opening, opposing the unhooking of the fixing tab (7).

9. Mechanical interface according to one of claims 1 to 8, in which the first support portion (2) and / or the second support portion (6) comprises openings (02) for fixing members, such as rivets.

10. Mechanical interface according to claim 9, in which the first support portion (2) is double-skinned, obtained by folding the metal sheet back on itself, the fixing openings passing through the double skin.

11. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 10, consisting, according to a section seen along a plane parallel to the plane Y1Z1, of the five portions: - the first support portion (2), - the connecting and centering portion (3), - the support portion (4), - the reinforcement portion (5) and, - the second support portion (6).

12. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 11, in which the connecting and centering portion (3) extends from the first support portion (2) to the proximal end (40) of the support portion (4), in a direction inclined relative to the vertical direction Z1 at an angle A1 of between 25° and 45°, such as 33°, ensuring an inclination of the guide face (FG), descending towards the support portion (4). CORRECTED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP

13. Interface according to claim 12, in which the connecting and centering portion (3) extends from the first support portion (2) to the proximal end (40) of the support portion (4), in a direction inclined relative to a horizontal direction Y1 at an angle A10 of between 45° and 65°, the direction Y1 perpendicular to the first support portion (2) and to the second support portion (6).

14. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 13, in which the support portion (4) extends from the proximal end (40) to its distal end (41), following a downward inclination relative to a horizontal direction Y1, according to a non-zero angle A2 of between 0° and 5°, the direction Y1° perpendicular to the first support portion (2) and to the second support portion (6).

15. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 14, in which the reinforcing portion (5) extends from the distal end (41) of the support portion (4) to the second support portion (6) approaching the second support portion (6), and following a downward inclination relative to a horizontal direction Y1, at an angle A3 of between 5° and 30°, the direction Y1 perpendicular to the first support portion (2) and to the second support portion (3).

16. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 15, extending in length along a direction X1, horizontal, parallel to the first support portion (2) and to the second support portion (6), comprising along the direction X1,: - a first end (E1), open, configured to allow the insertion or extraction of a load according to a movement of the load along the direction X1, - a second end (E2), closed, comprises stop means (B3, B4), projecting upwards from the connecting and centering portion (3) and / or the support portion (4) configured to ensure blocking of the load during its insertion in the direction X1.

17. Interface according to claim 16, wherein the stop means (B3, B4) comprise - - a first stop (B3), formed by a tab of the metal sheet, CORRECTED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP projecting from the connecting and centering portion (3) via a folding / bending line, between the first stop (B3) and the connecting and centering portion (3), - a second stop (B4) formed by a tab of the metal sheet, projecting from the support portion (4) via a folding / bending line, extending between the second stop (B4) and the portion, and in which the tab forming the first stop (B3) and the tab (B4) forming the second stop have two portions of the tabs (B3, B4), overlapping and secured to each other by at least one point of fastening between tabs, typically obtained by welding, clinching or stapling.

18. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 17 in which the second support portion (6) extends between the fourth folding / bending line (56) and up to a lower free edge of the shaped metal sheet.

19. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 9, or 11 to 18, in which the first support portion (2) extends between the first folding / bending line (23) and up to an upper free edge of the shaped metal sheet.

20. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 19, in which the first support portion (2) and the second support portion (6) extend respectively, from the first fold line (23) and the fourth fold line (56), outwards in two opposite directions.

21. Interface according to one of claims 1 to 20, in which the section of the shaped metal sheet, along a plane perpendicular to the direction of the folding / bending lines, is an open section.

22. Storage rack comprising: - a vertical structure, comprising a set of vertical uprights (M1, M2, M3, M4), - a bracing system comprising one or more bracing devices (ETR) distributed over the height of the vertical structure, mechanically connecting the uprights (M1, M2, M3, M4) together - one or more pairs of interfaces (1) according to one of claims 1 to 21, the pair of interfaces or each pair of interfaces comprising: CORRECTED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP -- a first interface (1A) fixed by the first support portion (2) and the second support portion (6) to at least two uprights (M1, M2) of the vertical structure, -- a second interface (1 B) fixed by the first support portion (2) and the second support portion (6) to at least two other uprights (M3, M4) of the vertical structure, and in which the support portions (4) and the connecting and guiding portions (3) belonging respectively to the first interface (1A) and to the second interface (1 B) are oriented towards each other configured to ensure the centering of a load (W) inserted and deposited between the first interface (1A) and the second interface (1 B) by the work of the connecting and guiding portions (3) of the two interfaces (1 A, 1 B) and the support of a load (W) supported by the two support portions (4) of the two interfaces (1A, 1 B) on both sides of the load (W).

23. Storage system for a warehouse comprising receptacles and at least one storage rack according to claim 22 comprising several pairs of interfaces, distributed along the height of the storage rack, each receptacle configured to be supported on both sides of the receptacle simultaneously and respectively by the support portion (4) of the first interface (1A) and the support portion of the second interface (1B).

24. The storage system of claim 23 having a transport system comprising at least one automated guided vehicle, said transport system configured to pick up and place receptacles in said storage racks.

25. Storage system according to claim 24, wherein the vertical structure of the storage rack, in particular at least one of the uprights, comprises a rack (CR1, CR2) extending along the height of the vertical structure, or a taut chain, extending along the height of the vertical structure, and wherein said at least one automatic guided vehicle comprises a chassis, carrying a rolling mechanism on a horizontal surface such as the ground, and climbing means comprising at least one toothed wheel configured to CORRECTED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP mesh with the rack (CR1, CR2) or with the links of the tensioned chain so as to allow the automatic guided vehicle to climb along the vertical structure of the storage rack, the automatic guided vehicle comprising a deployable loading / unloading system configured to: - load a receptacle from a first retracted position above the chassis to a second deployed position for which the receptacle is centered then supported by simultaneously pressing on the first interface (1 A) and the second interface (1 B), or - extracting a receptacle from the second position resting on the first interface (1A) and the second interface (1B) of a pair of interfaces (1A, 1B) and loading it into the first retracted position.

26. Use of the interface according to one of claims 1 to 21, of the storage rack according to claim 22 or of the system for transporting load (W) according to one of claims 23 to 25 for a load comprising one or more receptacles taken up by a pair of mechanical interfaces supporting the receptacle(s), up to 100 kg per supported receptacle. CORRECTED SHEET (RULE 91) ISA / EP

Images