Handling system, railway wagon and railway vehicle comprising said handling system

Abstract

The present invention relates to a handling system for railway line components (C) comprising: at least one frame (11; 11'; 11"), at least one guide (12; 12'; 12") extending over at least part of the extension of the frame, at least one carriage engaged in a slide manner to the guide and configured to move railway line components, at least one loader (70) engaged to the frame (11") and movable at least partially between the first zone (Z1") and the second zone (Z2"), wherein the loader (70) is constrained to frame (11") by means of an articulated system (80) configured to move said loader between the first and second operating position.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a handling system for components of a railway line, for example inert material, such as railway ballast, and rail track panels, as well as a railway wagon and a railway vehicle comprising said handling system. The invention may find application in the railway sector for the removal and / or maintenance of infrastructure, for example for the construction and / or renewal of railway lines.STATE OF THE ART

[0002] Railway lines are laid on wooden or concrete sleepers, which in turn are laid on ballast that distributes the load, provides track stability and enables water drainage. However, these structures require constant maintenance and, despite such efforts, must be renewed after a certain period of time. It is therefore necessary to remove the so-called rail track panels, i.e., the assembly consisting of a section of railway line fastened to a plurality of sleepers, along with the ballast, to replace these components with new ballast and new rail track panels, or with modern slab railway lines, also known as slab-track systems.

[0003] A railway line removal process is carried out using a convoy travelling on rails, comprising a head wagon equipped with a crane configured to lift the rail track panels and load them onto the same wagon. The head wagon is designed to receive a stack of rail track panels arranged one on top of the other. All railway wagons are equipped with a platform provided with rollers that allow the stack of rail track panels to be moved from the head wagon toward a tail wagon. In this way, stacks of rail track panels are accumulated on the convoy and transported from the removal area to the storage area for the old rail track panels. This process employs a separate railway convoy configured to contain the old ballast; the ballast is loaded only onto a head wagon and conveyed from one railway wagon to the next by means of a conveyor arranged above each container.

[0004] A further system for laying rail track panels is disclosed in US patent No. 4,357,874. This system comprises a railway wagon with a raised frame underneath which a crane is movable by sliding; on the frame, above the crane, a conveyor belt is provided for handling ballast. Another system is disclosed in Austrian patent AT 370 799. This system comprises a rail track panel laying wagon with a raised frame, underneath which a crane is movable by sliding. Along the same guide, a ballast handling bucket is slidably movable and arranged in sequence with respect to the crane. The Applicant has observed that traditional systems for removing rail track panels and ballast are complex and bulky both in height and length and can therefore be improved in several respects.SCOPE OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The aim of the invention is to overcome at least one of the drawbacks and / or limitations of prior solutions. A first object of the invention is to provide a compact handling system that is nevertheless capable of efficiently handling a large number of components of a railway line. A further object of the invention is to provide a handling system capable of quickly and safely moving components of a railway line. Another object of the invention is to provide a handling system having a simple structure, in particular one that can be manufactured at low cost. It is also an object of the invention to provide a railway wagon and a corresponding railway vehicle that are highly flexible in use and feature a simple and compact structure.

[0006] These and other objects, which will become more apparent from the following description, are substantially achieved by a handling system, as well as by a railway wagon and a railway vehicle comprising said handling system, in accordance with one or more of the attached claims.SUMMARY

[0007] In an aspect 1 a handling system (1; 1'; 1") for handling components, optionally of a railway line, is provided, wherein the handling system comprises at least one frame (11; 11'; 11") extending along a longitudinal trajectory (T1; T1'; T1") between a rear portion (11a; 11a'; 11a") and a front portion (11b; 11b'; 11b"), wherein said frame (11) has: at least one first zone (Z1; Z1'; Z1") extending longitudinally between the front portion of the frame and an intermediate longitudinal portion of the same frame located substantially midway between the rear and front portions of the frame, at least one second zone (Z2; Z2'; Z2") extending longitudinally between the rear portion of the frame and said intermediate longitudinal portion.

[0008] In an aspect 2 according to the preceding aspect the first and second zones are adjacent to each other. In an aspect 3 according to any one of the preceding aspects the first and second zones are immediately consecutive with respect to the longitudinal trajectory.

[0009] In an aspect 4 according to the preceding aspect, the handling system comprises at least one guide (12; 12'; 12") extending for at least a portion of the extension trajectory of the frame, substantially parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame. In an aspect 4bis according to the preceding aspect the guide (12; 12'; 12") extends from the rear portion (11a; 11a'; 11a") of the frame in the direction of the front portion (11b; 11b'; 11b"), along the longitudinal trajectory (T1; T1'; T1"). In an aspect 5 according to aspects 4 or 4bis, the guide is joined to the frame in a single body. In an aspect 6 according to any one of aspects 4 to 5 the at least one guide (12; 12'; 12") comprises at least one first section (12a; 12a'; 12a") and at least one second section (12b; 12b'; 12b") parallel to each other. In an aspect 6bis according to any one of aspects 4 to 6, the guide is configured to receive, in a sliding manner, at least one carriage configured to move one or more components (C) of a railway line.

[0010] In an aspect 7 according to any one of the aspects from 4 to 6bis, the guide extends from the rear portion (11a; 11a'; 11a") of the frame to at least at the intermediate longitudinal portion of the frame. In an aspect 8 according to any one of the aspects from 4 to 7 the guide (12; 12'; 12a") is configured to receive and support at least one carriage, optionally configured to slide along said guide.

[0011] In an aspect 9 according to any one of aspects 4 to 8 the guide (12; 12') extends from the rear portion (11a; 11a') to the front portion (11b; 11b') along the longitudinal trajectory (T1; T1'). In an aspect 10 according to any one of aspects 4 to 9, the guide (12; 12') extends along the entire extension of the frame.

[0012] In an aspect 11 according to any one of aspects 4 to 10 the at least one guide (12) is spaced from the frame. In an aspect 12 according to any one of aspects 4 to 11 the handling system comprises at least one support frame (19; 19'; 19") spacing the guide from the frame. In an aspect 13 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the distance between the frame and the guide is greater than 300 mm, optionally between 400 mm and 1200 mm. In an aspect 14 according to any one of aspects 4 to 13 the at least one part of the frame and the at least one guide substantially delimited a compartment. In an aspect 15 according to any one of aspects 12 to 14 the support frame comprises a top structure directly supporting the at least one guide (12).

[0013] In an aspect 16 according to any one of aspects 4 to 15 the at least one handling system (1; 1'; 1") comprises at least one carriage engaged in a sliding manner along the guide. In an aspect 17 according to the preceding aspect the at least one carriage is configured to move along at least one tract of the guide: at at least one of the first and second zone, and / or between the first and second zones of the frame.

[0014] In an aspect 18 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the carriage is movable to and fro along the guide between the first and second zones. In an aspect 19 according to any one of the three preceding aspects the at least one carriage comprises a support surface configured to receive in support one or more components (C) of a railway line. In an aspect 20 according to any one of the four preceding aspects the carriage is configured to relatively move the one or more components (C) with respect to the frame.

[0015] In an aspect 21 according to any one of aspects 16 to 20 the at least one carriage comprises: at least one first carriage (13; 13') movable in a sliding manner along the guide, configured to move between the first zone and a zone outside the frame, at least a second carriage (14; 14') movable in a sliding manner along the guide, configured to move between the first and second zones of the frame.

[0016] In an aspect 22 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the zone outside the frame is interposed between the second zone and said first zone. In an aspect 23 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the first zone is interposed between the second zone and said zone outside the frame.

[0017] In an aspect 24 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the longitudinal trajectory of the frame is rectilinear. In an aspect 25 according to any one of the preceding aspects the frame has a first and a second lateral edges (11c, 11d; 11c', 11d'; 11c'; 11d') spaced apart from each other along a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal trajectory of the same frame. In an aspect 26 according to the preceding aspect the first and second lateral edges (11c, 11d; 11c', 11d'; 11c"; 11d") define a lateral footprint of the frame. In an aspect 27 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the first and second lateral edges (11c, 11d; 11c', 11d'; 11c"; 11d") extend along the entire extension of the frame.

[0018] In an aspect 28 according to any one of aspects 18 to 27, the guide (12; 12'; 12") is contained within a lateral footprint of the frame defined by said first and second lateral edges (11c, 11d; 11c'; 11d").

[0019] In an aspect 29 according to any one of aspects 18 to 28, the support frame (19; 19'; 19") is fixed at the first and second lateral edges of the frame. In an aspect 30 according to any one of aspects 14 to 29 the support frame, the guide and the frame are at least partially delimited by said compartment.

[0020] In an aspect 31 according to any one of aspects 21 to 30, the first carriage (13; 13'), optionally when engaged to the guide (12; 12'), is placed within the lateral footprint of the frame (11; 11').

[0021] In an aspect 32 according to any one of aspects 21 to 31, the first carriage (13; 13') comprises a plurality of wheels (13b; 13b') engaged to the guide (12; 12') which are configured to allow the first carriage to slide along said guide. In an aspect 33 according to any one of aspects 21 to 32, the first carriage has a longitudinal footprint substantially equal to the longitudinal footprint of at least one of the first and second zones.

[0022] In an aspect 34 according to any one of aspects 21 to 33 the first carriage (13; 13') extends between a first and a second longitudinal end respectively facing the front portion (11b; 11b') of the frame and the rear portion (11a; 11a') of the frame. In an aspect 35 according to the preceding aspect, the distance between the first and second ends of the first carriage substantially defines a length of said first carriage. In an aspect 36 according to the preceding aspect, the length of the first carriage is substantially equal to a longitudinal extension of at least one of the first and second zones.

[0023] In an aspect 37 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the first end of the first carriage, when the first carriage is disposed on the first zone, is disposed at the front portion of the frame. In an aspect 38 according to any one of the four preceding aspects, the second end of the first carriage, when the first carriage is arranged on the first zone, is disposed towards the intermediate longitudinal portion of the frame. In an aspect 39 according to any one of the preceding five aspects, the first end of the first carriage, when the first carriage is arranged at the zone outside the frame, is facing the forward portion of the frame. In an aspect 40 according to any one of the preceding six aspects, the second end of the first carriage, when the first carriage is arranged at the zone outside the frame, is arranged at the front portion of the frame.

[0024] In an aspect 41 according to any one of aspects 21 to 40 the first carriage has a support surface (13a; 13a') which, in use, is substantially horizontal. In an aspect 42 according to the preceding aspect, the support surface of the first carriage is configured to maintain an equal distance from the frame (11; 11'), wherein said distance is measured orthogonally to the support surface (13a; 13a') of the first carriage. In an aspect 43 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the support surface (13a; 13a') of the first carriage (13; 13') lies substantially on an ideal plane.

[0025] In an aspect 44 according to any one of aspects 21 to 43, the second carriage (14; 14'), optionally when engaged to the guide (12; 12'), is placed within the lateral footprint of the frame (11; 11').

[0026] In an aspect 45 according to any one of aspects 21 to 44, the second carriage (14; 14') comprises a plurality of wheels (14b; 14b') engaged to the guide (12; 12') which are configured to allow the carriage to slide along said guide. In an aspect 46 according to any one of aspects 21 to 45, the second carriage has a longitudinal footprint substantially equal to the longitudinal footprint of at least one of the first and second zones.

[0027] In an aspect 47 according to any one of aspects 21 to 46 the second carriage extends between a first and a second longitudinal end respectively facing the front portion of the frame and the rear portion of the frame. In an aspect 48 according to the preceding aspect, the distance between the first and second ends of the second carriage substantially defines a length of said second carriage. In an aspect 49 according to the preceding aspect, the length of the second carriage is substantially equal to a longitudinal extension of at least one of the first and second zones. In an aspect 50 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the first end of the second carriage, when the second carriage is disposed on the second zone, is disposed at the intermediate longitudinal portion of the frame. In an aspect 51 according to any one of the four preceding aspects, the second end of the second carriage, when the second carriage is disposed on the second zone, is disposed towards the rear portion of the frame.

[0028] In an aspect 52 according to any one of aspects 21 to 51 the second carriage has a support surface which, in use, is substantially horizontal. In an aspect 53 according to the preceding aspect, the support surface (14a; 14a') of the second carriage (14; 14') is configured to maintain an equal distance from the frame (11; 11'), wherein said distance is measured orthogonally to the support surface of the second carriage. In an aspect 54 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the support surface of the second carriage lies substantially on an ideal plane. In an aspect 55 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the support surface of the second carriage and the support surface of the first carriage lie substantially on a single plane. In an aspect 56 according to any one of the preceding four aspects, the support surface of the second carriage is placed at a distance from the frame substantially identical to a distance between the support surface of the first carriage and said frame; optionally, said distances are measured orthogonally to the support surfaces of said first and second carriages.

[0029] In an aspect 57 according to any one of aspects 21 to 56 the first and second carriages are constrained to each other. In an aspect 58 according to any one of aspects 21 to 57 the second carriage (14; 14'), when moving the first carriage (13; 13') from the first zone to the zone outside the frame, is configured to move from the second zone (Z2; Z2') to the first zone (Z1; Z1'). In an aspect 59 according to any one of aspects 21 to 58 the first carriage (13; 13'), when moving the second carriage (14; 14') from the second zone to the first zone, is configured to move from the zone outside the frame to the second zone (Z2; Z2'). In an aspect 60 according to any one of aspects 21 to 59 the first and second carriages are constrained to each other by means of a connecting element (15; 15'). In an aspect 61 according to the preceding aspect, the connecting element (15; 15') is hinged, on one side, to the second end of the first carriage (13; 13') and, on the other side, is hinged to the first end of the second carriage (14; 14'). In an aspect 62 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the connecting element (15; 15') comprises at least one bar.

[0030] In an aspect 63 according to any one of aspects 6 to 62, the handling system (1; 1') comprises at least one actuator configured to enable sliding handling of the at least one carriage. In an aspect 64 according to any one of aspects 21 to 63, the handling system (1; 1') comprises at least one actuator configured to allow sliding handling of the first and second carriages along the guide. In an aspect 65 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the actuator comprises at least one of: an electric motor, a hydrostatic motor. In an aspect 66 according to any one of the preceding three aspects the actuator comprises: at least one drive element connected to the frame and to at least one of the first and second carriage, wherein the drive element is configured to move, in a sliding manner, said carriages along the guide, at least one transmission member, at least one motor, optionally a hydrostatic motor, active on the transmission member and configured to allow movement, optionally rotation, of said transmission member.

[0031] In an aspect 67 according to the preceding aspect, the transmission member is movable by rotation about an axis. In an aspect 68 according to any one of the preceding two aspects the transmission member comprises at least one of: a gear wheel, a crown wheel, a friction wheel. In an aspect 69 according to any one of the preceding three aspects the drive element comprises at least one of: a belt, a chain. In an aspect 70 according to any one of the preceding four aspects the drive element is constrained, on the one hand, to the frame and, on the other hand, is constrained only to the second carriage. In an aspect 71 according to any one of the preceding five aspects the actuator is configured to directly move the second carriage. In an aspect 72 according to any one of the preceding six aspects the first carriage is guided in movement by the second carriage.

[0032] In an aspect 73 according to any one of the preceding aspects the handling system (1; 1') comprises at least one lift engaged to the frame (11) and active at at least one of the first zone (Z1; Z1') and the second zone (Z2; Z2'). In an aspect 74 according to the preceding aspect the at least one lift is configured to lift one or more components (C) of a railway line with respect to the frame. In an aspect 75 according to any one of the preceding two aspects the at least one lift is configured to move, optionally vertically lift, the one or more components (C) of a railway line carried by the at least one carriage (optionally on at least one of said first and second carriages) with respect to said carriage. In an aspect 76 according to any one of the preceding three aspects the at least one lift is arranged at the at least one of the first and second lateral edges of the frame. In an aspect 77 according to any one of the preceding four aspects the at least one lift is placed at the side of the guide, optionally spaced apart from a central longitudinal area of the frame.

[0033] In an aspect 78 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the handling system (1; 1') comprises: a first lift (20; 20') engaged to the frame (11; 11') and active at the first zone (Z1; Z1'), a second lift (25; 25') engaged to the frame (11; 11') and active at the second zone (Z2; Z2').

[0034] In an aspect 79 according to the preceding aspect the first lift (20; 20') is configured to move one or more components (C), optionally of a railway line, with respect to at least one of the first carriage and the second carriage. In an aspect 80 according to any one of the preceding two aspects at least one part of the first lift (20; 20') is movable between: a raised position in which the first lift is configured to space one or more components (C) from at least one carriage, optionally from at least one of said first and second carriages, a lowered position in which the first lift is configured to allow one or more components (C) to rest on at least one carriage, optionally on at least one of said first and second carriages.

[0035] In an aspect 81 according to the preceding aspect, the first lift (20; 20'), during the movement between the lowered position and the raised position, is configured to lift the one or more components with respect to the at least one carriage, optionally with respect to the at least one of the first carriage (13; 13') and the second carriage (14; 14') . In an aspect 82 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the first lift (20; 20'), during the movement between the lowered position and the raised position, is configured for spacing the one or more components with respect to the frame (11; 11').

[0036] In an aspect 83 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the first lift (20; 20') comprises an upper surface (21; 21') configured to receive in support the one or more components (C), wherein the upper surface (21; 21') of the first lift (20; 20'), in use and in the lowered position of the first lift, is placed below the support surface of the at least one carriage, optionally below the support surfaces of the first carriage and the second carriage, wherein the upper surface (21; 21') of the first lift (20; 20'), in use and in the raised position of the first lift, is placed above the support surface of the at least one carriage, optionally to the support surfaces of the first carriage and the second carriage. In an aspect 84 according to any one of the preceding four aspects, the first lift (20; 20') comprises at least a first arm (22; 22') and a second arm (23; 23'), optionally respectively arranged at the first and second lateral edges of the frame, capable of defining the upper surface (21; 21') of the first lift (20; 20'). In an aspect 85 according to the preceding aspect at least said first and second arms of the first lift (20; 20') are movable between the lowered and raised position, and vice versa. In an aspect 86 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the guide is interposed between the first and second arms of the first lift (20; 20').

[0037] In an aspect 87 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the first and second arms of the first lift have respective longitudinal extensions, optionally measured along the longitudinal trajectory of the frame, to define a length of said first and second arms. In an aspect 88 according to the preceding aspect, the ratio between the length of the first arm or second arm of the first lift and the length of the first carriage is between 0.5 and 1.5, optionally between 0.7 and 1.1, even more optionally between 0.8 and 1, extremes included. In an aspect 89 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the ratio between the length of the first arm or second arm of the first lift and the length of the second carriage is between 0.5 and 1.5, optionally between 0.7 and 1.1, even more optionally between 0.8 and 1, extremes included.

[0038] In an aspect 90 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the handling system (1; 1') comprises at least one actuator (24; 24') engaged, on one side, to the frame (11; 11') and, on the other side, to the first lift (20; 20'), wherein said actuator is configured to move said first lift (optionally said first and second arms) from the lowered position to the raised position, and vice versa. In an aspect 91 according to the preceding aspect, the handling system (1; 1') comprises a further actuator engaged, on the one hand, to the frame (11; 11') and, on the other hand, to at least one of said first and second arms of said first lift, wherein said further actuator is configured to move at least one of said first and second arms of said first lift (20; 20') along a transverse direction, optionally orthogonal, to the extension trajectory of said frame and substantially parallel to the upper surface of said first lift. In an aspect 92 according to the preceding aspect, the further actuator is configured to move at least one of said first and second arms of said first lift (20; 20') in approaching and moving away from each other, optionally along a plane substantially parallel to the upper surface of said first lift.

[0039] In an aspect 93 according to any one of aspects 78 to 92 the second lift (25; 25') is configured to move one or more components (C), optionally of a railway line, with respect to at least one of the first carriage and the second carriage. In an aspect 94 according to any one of aspects 78 to 93 the second lift (25; 25') is movable between: a raised position in which the second lift is configured for spacing one or more components (C) from at least one carriage, optionally from at least one of said first and second carriages, a lowered position in which the second lift is configured to allow one or more components (C) to rest on at least one carriage, optionally on at least one of said first and second carriages.

[0040] In an aspect 95 according to the preceding aspect, the second lift (25; 25'), during the movement between the lowered position and the raised position, is configured to lift one or more components with respect to the at least one carriage, optionally with respect to at least one of the first carriage and the second carriage. In an aspect 96 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the second lift (25; 25'), during the movement between the lowered position and the raised position, is configured for spacing one or more components with respect to the frame (11; 11').

[0041] In an aspect 97 according to any one of aspects 78 to 96 the second lift (25; 25') comprises an upper surface (26; 26') configured to receive in support the one or more components (C), wherein the upper surface (26; 26') of the second lift (25; 25'), in use and in the lowered position of the second lift, is located below the support surface of the first and second carriages, wherein the upper surface (26; 26') of the second lift (25; 25'), in use and in the raised position of the second lift, is located above the support surface of the first and second carriages.

[0042] In an aspect 98 according to any one of aspects 78 to 97 the second lift (25; 25') comprises at least one first arm (27; 27') and at least one second arm (28; 28'), optionally engaged respectively to the first and second lateral edges of the frame, which define the upper surface (26; 26') of the second lift itself. In an aspect 99 according to any one of the preceding aspects at least said first and second arms of the second lift (25; 25') are movable between the lowered and raised position, and vice versa. In an aspect 100 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the guide is interposed between the first and second arms of the second lift.

[0043] In an aspect 101 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the first and second arms of the second lift have respective longitudinal extensions, optionally measured along the longitudinal trajectory of the frame, to define a length of said first and second arms. In an aspect 102 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the ratio between the length of the first arm or second arm of the second lift and the length of the first carriage is between 0.5 and 1.5, optionally between 0.7 and 1.1, even more optionally between 0.8 and 1, extremes included. In an aspect 103 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the ratio between the length of the first arm or second arm of the second lift and the length of the second carriage is between 0.5 and 1.5, optionally between 0.7 and 1.1, even more optionally between 0.8 and 1, extremes included.

[0044] In an aspect 104 according to any one of aspects 78 to 103, the handling system (1) comprises at least one actuator (29; 29') engaged, on one side, to the frame and, on the other side, to the second lift (25; 25'), wherein said actuator (29; 29') is configured to move said second lift (optionally said first and second arms of said second lift) from the lowered position to the raised position, and vice versa. In an aspect 105 according to the preceding aspect, the handling system (1; 1') comprises a further actuator engaged, on the one hand, to the frame (11; 11') and, on the other hand, to at least one of said first and second arms of said second lift, wherein said further actuator is configured to move at least one of said first and second arms of said second lift along a transverse direction, optionally orthogonal, to the extension trajectory of the frame and substantially parallel to the upper surface of said second lift. In an aspect 106 according to the preceding aspect, the further actuator is configured to move at least one of said first and second arms of said second lift towards to and away from each other, optionally along a plane substantially parallel to the upper surface of said second lift.

[0045] In an aspect 107 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the handling system (1) comprises at least one control unit. In an aspect 108 according to the preceding aspect the control unit is connected to at least one actuator of the handling system (1; 1'). In an aspect 109 according to any one of the preceding two aspects the control unit is active in command on the first lift (20; 20') and on the second lift (25; 25'). In an aspect 110 according to any one of the preceding three aspects the control unit is active in command: on the actuator configured to move at least one carriage, optionally the first and second carriage (along the guide, on the actuator (24; 24') of the first lift (20; 20'), on the actuator (29; 29') of the second lift (25; 25').

[0046] In an aspect 111 according to any one of the preceding four aspects, the control unit is configured to carry out a transfer procedure configured to allow the movement of a stack of components (C).

[0047] In an aspect 112 there is provided a process for transferring components (C), for example of a railway line, by means of a handling system (1; 1') according to any one of the preceding aspects. In an aspect 113 according to the preceding aspect, the process comprises the following steps: arrange the first carriage (13) at the first zone (Z1) and the second carriage at the second zone (Z2), arrange on the first carriage (13) a first plurality of components one above the other to define a stack of components, arrange the first and second lifts in the lowered position, move the first lift (20; 20') from the lowered position to the raised position to raise the stack of components with respect to the first carriage, during the raised position of the first lift, move the first and second carriages with respect to the frame in such a way that the first carriage may move from the first zone to the zone outside the frame while the second carriage may move from the second zone to the first zone, then move the first lift (20; 20') from the raised position to the lowered position so that the stack of components may be placed on the second carriage.

[0048] In an aspect 114 according to the preceding aspect, the process, following the positioning of the stack of components on the second carriage, further comprising positioning a further stack of components on the first carriage. In an aspect 115 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the process, following the positioning of the stack of components on the second carriage, further comprising moving the second carriage from the first zone to the second zone and, optionally concurrently, moving the first carriage from the zone outside the frame to the first zone. In an aspect 116 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the process, following the movement of the second carriage at the second zone, comprises moving the second lift (25; 25') from the lowered position to the raised position to raise the stack of components (C) with respect to the second carriage. In an aspect 117 according to any one of the preceding four aspects, the stack of components comprises a number of components equal to or greater than 2, optionally between 2 and 6. In an aspect 118 according to any one of the preceding five aspects, the further stack of components comprises a number of components equal to or greater than 2, optionally between 2 and 6. In an aspect 119 according to any one of the preceding six aspects each component (C) comprises at least one of: a rail track panel, one or more rail sleepers, one or more rails.

[0049] In an aspect 120 according to any one of aspects 78 to 119 at least a part of the first lift (20'), optionally at least said first and second arms of the first lift, is movable at least between the following operating positions: the lowered position, the elevated position, an intermediate position between the lowered and the raised position.

[0050] In an aspect 121 according to the preceding aspect the first lift (20'), in the intermediate position, is configured for spacing one or more components from said at least one of said first and second carriages (13'; 14'). In an aspect 122 according to any one of the preceding two aspects the at least one arm of the first lift, optionally the first and second arms, in the lowered position of the first lift (20') is arranged, in use, below the support surface of said first and second carriages (13', 14'). In an aspect 123 according to any one of the preceding three aspects the at least one arm of the first lift, optionally the first and second arms, in the raised position of the first lift (20') is arranged at least partially, in use, above the support surface of the first and second carriages (13', 14'). In an aspect 124 according to any one of the four preceding aspects the at least one arm of the first lift, optionally the first and second arms, in the intermediate position of the first lift (20') is arranged at least partially, in use, above the support surface of the first and second carriages (13', 14'). In an aspect 125 according to any one of the preceding five aspects, at least the upper surface (21') of the first lift (20'), in the raised position of the first lift (20') is arranged at a first distance from the support surface of the first and second carriage (13', 14'). In an aspect 126 according to the preceding aspect, the upper surface (21') of the first lift (20'), in the intermediate position of the first lift (20') is arranged at a second distance from the support surface of the first and second carriage, wherein the ratio of said first distance to said second distance is equal to or greater than 1.3, optionally between 1.5 and 3.

[0051] In an aspect 127 according to any one of aspects 120 to 126 the at least one arm, optionally the first and second arms of the first lift (20'), during the transition from the lowered position to the intermediate position, is configured to intercept and lift the one or more components (C) resting on at least one of said first and second carriages (13', 14') relative thereto. In an aspect 128 according to any one of aspects 120 to 127 the at least one arm, optionally the first and second arms of the first lift (20'), during the transition from the intermediate position to the raised position, is configured for further spacing the one or more components (C) with respect to at least one of said first and second carriages (13', 14').

[0052] In an aspect 129 according to any one of aspects 120 to 128 the at least one arm of the first lift, when placed in the lowered position, presents a first distance from the frame (11') while, when placed in the intermediate position, presents a second distance from the frame (11') greater than the first distance. In an aspect 130 according to any one of aspects 120 to 129 the at least one arm of the first lift, when placed in the raised position, presents a third distance from the frame (11') greater than the second distance.

[0053] In an aspect 131 according to any one of aspects 120 to 130 the first lift (20') comprises: a first column (31) engaged to the frame and arranged at the first lateral edge (11c') of the frame (11'), a second column (32) engaged to the frame and arranged at the second lateral edge (11d') of the frame (11').

[0054] In an aspect 132 according to the preceding aspect the first and / or second carriage (13', 14'), when arranged at the first zone (Z1'), are interposed between the first and second columns (31, 32) of the first lift. In an aspect 133 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the guide (12') is at least partially interposed between the first and second columns (31, 32) of the first lift. In an aspect 134 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the first lift (20') comprises an arm for each of said first and second columns (31, 32).

[0055] In an aspect 135 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the handling system (1') comprises at least one control unit. In an aspect 136 according to any one of the preceding aspects the control unit is connected to at least one actuator of the handling system (1'). In an aspect 137 according to any one of the preceding aspects the control unit is active in command on the first and second lifts (20', 25') to carry out a stacking procedure, optionally configured to stack two or more components. In an aspect 138 the stacking procedure is performed by the control unit prior to the transfer procedure.

[0056] In an aspect 139 there is provided a process for stacking components (C), optionally of a railway line, by means of a handling system (1') according to any one of the preceding aspects. In an aspect 140 according to the preceding aspect the stacking process comprises the following steps: arrange the first and second lifts (20', 25') in the lowered position, load a first component (C) onto the first carriage (13'), arrange the first and second carriages (13', 14') at the first and second zones (Z1', Z2') respectively, during this phase the first component (C) is supported by the first carriage (13'), lift the first component over the first carriage (13'), move the second carriage (14') to the first zone (Z1') below the first component (C), load a second component (C) onto the first carriage (13'), move the first and second carriage at the first and second zones respectively, load the second component onto the first component, said first and second components are supported by the first carriage (13').

[0057] In an aspect 141 according to the preceding aspect, the process also comprises the following steps: lift the first and second components from the first carriage (13'), move the second carriage (14') at the first zone (Z1') below the first and second components, load a third component (C) onto the first carriage (13'), move the first and second carriage at the first and second zones respectively, load the third component onto the first and second components to define a stack of components supported by the first carriage (13').

[0058] In an aspect 142 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, during the step of load the first component onto the first carriage (13'), said first carriage (13') is arranged at the zone outside the frame (11'). In an aspect 143 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, each stack of components comprises a number of components equal to or greater than 2, optionally between 2 and 6. In an aspect 144 according to any one of the preceding four aspects each component (C) comprises at least one of: a rail track panel, one or more rail sleepers, one or more rails.

[0059] In an aspect 145 according to any one of aspects 4 to 144 the at least one guide (12") is arranged solely from the rear portion (11a; 11a'; 11a") of the frame to at least the intermediate longitudinal portion of the frame. In an aspect 146 according to any one of aspects 4 to 145 the at least one guide (12") is arranged solely at the second zone (Z2"). In an aspect 147 according to any one of aspects 6 to 146 the first section (12a") and the second section (12b") of the guide (12") extend from the rear portion (11a; 11a') to the intermediate longitudinal portion of the frame (11"), optionally along the longitudinal trajectory (T1; T1'). In an aspect 147bis according to any one of aspects 8 to 146, the handling system (1") comprises a single carriage.

[0060] In an aspect 148 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the handling system (1") comprises at least one loader (70) engaged to the frame (11") and movable at least partially between the first zone (Z1") and the second zone (Z2"), and vice versa. In an aspect 149 according to the preceding aspect the loader (70) is engaged to at least one of the first lateral edge (11c") and the second lateral edge (11d"). In an aspect 150 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the loader (70) is constrained to the first and second lateral edges of the frame (11"). In an aspect 151 according to any one of the preceding three aspects the loader (70) is movable at least between: a first operating position in which said loader (70) is arranged at least partially at the first zone (Z1") and is configured to receive at least one component (C), optionally of a railway line, a second operating position in which said loader (70) is arranged at least partially at the second zone (Z2"), optionally configured to have at least one component (C) on at least one carriage arranged on the guide (12").

[0061] In an aspect 152 according to the preceding aspect the loader (70), when arranged at the second zone (Z2") is placed to the side of the guide (12"). In an aspect 153 according to any one of the preceding two aspects at least a part of the loader (70), when moving between the first and second operating positions, is configured to move along a substantially and at least partially arched trajectory. In an aspect 154 according to any one of the preceding three aspects at least one part of the loader (70), during the movement between the first and second operating positions, is configured to roto-translate with respect to the frame (11").

[0062] In an aspect 155 according to any one of aspects 148 to 154 the loader comprises: a first shoulder (71) engaged to the frame (11") at the first lateral edge (11c"), a second shoulder (72) engaged to the frame (11") at the second lateral edge (11d").

[0063] In an aspect 156 according to the preceding aspect the first and second shoulders (71, 72) are spaced apart from each other. In an aspect 157 according to any one of the preceding two aspects the first and second shoulders (71, 72) extend along respective directions parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame (11"). In an aspect 158 according to any one of the preceding three aspects the first and second shoulders (71, 72) are arranged at a minimum distance from each other of more than 1500 mm, optionally between 1700 and 2800 mm. In an aspect 159 according to any one of the four preceding aspects the first and second shoulders (71, 72) define a support surface configured to receive at least one component (C) of a railway line, for example a rail track panel.

[0064] In an aspect 160 according to any one of the five preceding aspects, the first shoulder (71) is spaced from a central longitudinal zone of the frame (11"). In an aspect 161 according to any one of aspects 155 to 160 the first shoulder (71), when positioned at the second zone (Z2") is positioned to the side of the guide (12"). In an aspect 162 according to any one of aspects 155 to 161 the first shoulder (71) extends between a first and a second longitudinal end (71a, 71b) to define a length of the first shoulder. In an aspect 163 according to the preceding aspect, the length of the first shoulder, measured along the longitudinal trajectory of the frame (11"), is substantially equal to a length of the first and / or second zone of the frame (11"). In an aspect 164 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the length of the first shoulder (71), measured along the longitudinal trajectory of the frame (11"), is substantially equal to a length of the guide (12") also measured along the longitudinal trajectory of the frame (11").

[0065] In an aspect 165 according to any one of aspects 155 to 164 the second shoulder (72) is spaced from a central longitudinal zone of the frame (11"). In an aspect 166 according to any one of aspects 155 to 165 the second shoulder (72), when positioned at the second zone (Z2") is positioned to the side of the guide (12"). In an aspect 167 according to any one of aspects 155 to 166 the second shoulder (72) extends between a first and a second longitudinal end (72a, 72b) to define a length of the second shoulder. In an aspect 168 according to the preceding aspect, the length of the second shoulder, measured along the longitudinal trajectory of the frame (11"), is substantially equal to a length of the first and / or second zone of the frame (11"). In an aspect 169 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the length of the second shoulder (72), measured along the longitudinal trajectory of the frame (11"), is substantially equal to a length of the guide (12") also measured along the longitudinal trajectory of the frame (11").

[0066] In an aspect 170 according to any of aspects 155 to 169 the first shoulder (71) comprises: a base (73), a slide (75) slidingly movable along the base (73).

[0067] In an aspect 171 according to the preceding aspect at least the slide (75) of the first shoulder is movable at least between a first and a second end position. In an aspect 172 according to any one of the preceding two aspects the slide of the first shoulder is movable between the first and second end position along a rectilinear direction. In an aspect 173 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the rectilinear direction of movement of the slide (75) of the first shoulder, in use, lies in a horizontal plane. In an aspect 174 according to any one of the four preceding aspects, the base (73) of the first shoulder (71) is solely movable with respect to the frame between the first and second operating positions. In an aspect 175 according to any one of the preceding five aspects, the slide defines at least part of the support surface configured to receive at least one component (C). In an aspect 176 according to any one of the preceding six aspects, the support surface of the first shoulder, during movement between the first and second operating positions, is configured to maintain a substantially horizontal position. In an aspect 177 according to any one of the preceding seven aspects, the first shoulder support surface (71), during movement of the slide (75) between the first and second end positions, is configured to maintain a substantially horizontal position.

[0068] In an aspect 178 according to any one of the preceding eight aspects, the slide (75) of the first shoulder is configured to move from the first to the second end position: when the loader (70) is placed in the first operating position, or when the loader (70) is placed in an intermediate position between the first and second operating position.

[0069] In an aspect 179 according to any one of the preceding nine aspects, the slide (75) of the first shoulder (71) is configured to be in the second end position when the loader (70) is in the second operating position.

[0070] In an aspect 180 according to any of aspects 155 to 179 the second shoulder (72) comprises: a base (74), a slide (76) slidingly movable along the base (74).

[0071] In an aspect 181 according to the preceding aspect, the slide (76) of the second shoulder is movable at least between a first and a second end position. In an aspect 182 according to any one of the preceding two aspects the slide of the second shoulder is movable between the first and second end position along a rectilinear direction. In an aspect 183 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the rectilinear direction of movement of the slide (76) of the second shoulder, in use, lies in a horizontal plane. In an aspect 184 according to any one of the four preceding aspects, the base (74) of the second shoulder (72) is solely movable with respect to the frame between the first and second operating positions. In an aspect 185 according to any one of the preceding five aspects, the slide (76) of the second shoulder defines at least part of the support surface configured to receive at least one component (C). In an aspect 186 according to any one of the preceding six aspects, the support surface of the second shoulder, during movement between the first and second operating positions, is configured to maintain a substantially horizontal position. In an aspect 187 according to any one of the preceding seven aspects, the second shoulder support surface (71), during movement of the slide (76) between the first and second end positions, is configured to maintain a substantially horizontal position. In an aspect 188 according to any one of the preceding eight aspects, the second shoulder slide defines at least part of the support surface configured to receive at least one component (C). In an aspect 189 according to any one of the preceding nine aspects, the second shoulder slide (76) is configured to move from the first to the second end position: when the loader (70) is placed in the first operating position, or when the loader (70) is placed in an intermediate position between the first and second operating position.

[0072] In an aspect 190 according to any one of the preceding ten aspects, the slide (76) of the second shoulder (72) is configured to be arranged in the second end position when the loader (70) is in the second operating position. In an aspect 191 according to any one of aspects 180 to 190 the first and second slides are synchronised in movement. In an aspect 192 according to any one of aspects 180 to 191 the slides (75, 76) of the first and second shoulder of the loader are configured to move synchronously from the first to the second end position, and vice versa. In an aspect 193 according to any one of aspects 180 to 192 the slide (75) of the first shoulder is configured to be arranged in the first end position when the slide (76) of the second shoulder is in the first end position. In an aspect 194 according to any one of aspects 180 to 193, the slide (75) of the first shoulder is configured to be arranged in the second end position when the slide (76) of the second shoulder is in the second end position.

[0073] In an aspect 195 according to any one of aspects 155 to 194, the first and second shoulders (71, 72) of the loader (70) are symmetrical with respect to a longitudinal centreline plane of the frame (11"), substantially parallel to the direction of extension of the shoulders and orthogonal to the support plane defined by said first and second shoulders. In an aspect 196 according to any one of aspects 148 to 195 the loader (70) is constrained to the frame (11") by means of an articulated system (80). In an aspect 197 according to the preceding aspect, the articulated system is configured to move said loader between the first and second operating positions. In an aspect 198 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the articulated system (80) comprises: at least a first frame (81) with an articulated quadrilateral structure interposed between the frame (11") and the first shoulder, at least one actuator (82) active on the first frame to enable the movement of the first shoulder from the first to the second operating position.

[0074] In an aspect 199 according to any of the preceding three aspects, the articulated system (80) comprises at least a second frame (83) with an articulated quadrilateral structure interposed between the frame (11") and the second shoulder, at least one actuator (84) active on the second frame to allow the second shoulder to be moved from the first to the second operating position.

[0075] In an aspect 200 a process for loading components by means of a handling system (1") according to any one of aspects 148 to 199 is provided. In an aspect 201 according to the preceding aspect, the process comprises the following steps: arrange at least one component (C) on the loader (70) arranged in the first operating position, arrange at least one carriage on the guide (12"), move the loader (70) from the first to the second operating position to place the component (C) on the carriage. In an aspect 202 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the handling system (1; 1'; 1") comprises at least one conveyor (90) engaged to the frame. In an aspect203 according to the preceding aspect the conveyor (90) extends longitudinally between a first and a second end (90a, 90b), along an extension trajectory. In an aspect 204 according to any one of the preceding two aspects at least a portion of the conveyor (90) extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame. In an aspect 205 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the conveyor has a length defined by the distance between the first and second ends. In an aspect 206 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the length of the conveyor (90) is greater than a length of the first and second zones. In an aspect 207 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the length of the conveyor (90) is greater than a length of the first or second carriage. In an aspect 208 according to any one of aspects 202 to 207 the conveyor (90) extends for at least the entire length of the second zone (Z2; Z2'; Z2"). In an aspect 209 according to any one of aspects 202 to 208 the conveyor (90) extends for the entire second zone and for at least a tract of the first zone. In an aspect 210 according to any one of aspects 202 to 209 the second end (90b) of the conveyor (90) protrudes from the frame. In an aspect 211 according to any one of aspects 202 to 210 the first end of the conveyor (90) faces the front portion of the frame.

[0076] In an aspect 212 according to any one of aspects 202 to 211, the conveyor (90) is at least partially interposed between the first and second lateral edges of the frame. In an aspect 213 according to any one of aspects 202 to 212 the conveyor (90) is arranged substantially at a central longitudinal area of the frame. In an aspect 214 according to any one of aspects 202 to 213 the conveyor (90), in a condition of use of the handling system, is arranged at least partially under the guide (12; 12'; 12"), or above the guide (12; 12'; 12").

[0077] In an aspect 215 according to any one of aspects 202 to 214 the conveyor (90) is arranged at least partially below the guide. In an aspect 216 according to any one of aspects 202 to 215 at least a part of the conveyor (90) is arranged substantially in the compartment, optionally delimited by the frame and the guide (optionally by the support frame, the frame and the guide). In an aspect 216a according to any one of aspects 202 to 216 the conveyor (90) is substantially and at least partially side by side with the loader (70), when arranged in the first operating position. In an aspect 217 according to any one of aspects 202 to 216bis, the conveyor (90) comprises at least one conveyor belt. In an aspect 218 according to any one of aspects 202 to 217 the conveyor (90) is configured to receive and handle inert material, optionally crushed stone of a railway ballast. In an aspect 218bis the conveyor (90), optionally the conveyor belt, has a transport surface (91) configured to receive and handle inert material, optionally crushed stone of a railway ballast, with respect to the frame. In an aspect 219 according to the preceding aspect, the transport surface (91) has a width, measured orthogonally to the extension trajectory of the conveyor itself, less than the length of said conveyor. In an aspect 220 according to the preceding aspect the width of the transport surface of the conveyor is greater than 600 mm, optionally between 700 and 1500 mm. In an aspect 221 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the width of the transport surface is less than a width of the frame. In an aspect 222 according to any one of the three preceding aspects, the ratio between the width of the transport surface (91) and a width of the guide, always measured along a direction orthogonal to the extension trajectory of the conveyor itself, is between 0.4 and 1.5, optionally between 0.5 and 1.2.

[0078] In an aspect 223 according to any one of aspects 202 to 222 at least one conveyor tract emerges from the frame. In an aspect 224 according to the preceding aspect the conveyor tract emerging from the frame has a predetermined length, wherein the ratio of said predetermined length of the conveyor tract emerging from the frame to an overall length of said conveyor is between 0.3 and 0.7, optionally between 0.3 and 0.6.

[0079] In an aspect 225 according to any one of aspects 202 to 224 the transport surface (91), optionally configured to receive and handle inert material, comprises: a first section (91a) substantially parallel to the guide, a second section (91b) extending from the first section away from the guide.

[0080] In an aspect 226 according to the preceding aspect, the second section (91b) is entirely disposed within a footprint of the frame. In an aspect 227 according to any one of the two preceding aspects at least part of the first section (91a) protrudes from the frame, optionally from the rear portion. In an aspect 228 according to any one of the preceding three aspects the first section, in a condition of use of the handling system, is substantially horizontal. In an aspect 229 according to any one of the preceding four aspects, the second section is inclined with respect to the first section. In an aspect 230 according to any one of the preceding five aspects, the first and second sections are inclined by an angle (a) between 190° and 240°, optionally between 200° and 230°; wherein said angle is subtended by the side wherein the transport surface is configured to directly receive inert material in support.

[0081] In an aspect 231 according to any one of aspects 202 to 230 said handling system comprises at least one active actuator on said conveyor (90) for enabling movement of inert material resting on said conveyor. In an aspect 232 according to the preceding aspect said actuator comprises at least one electric motor. In an aspect 233 according to any one of aspects 202 to 232 the conveyor (90) is configured to receive inert material, optionally crushed stone of a railway ballast, and move it outside the frame (11; 11'; 11").

[0082] In an aspect 234 according to any one of aspects 202 to 233 a preponderant part of the conveyor (90), optionally at least 50% of a surface extension of the conveyor, is overlapped to the guide (12). In an aspect 235 according to any one of aspects 202 to 234 the at least one carriage is configured to move above the guide, wherein the at least one preponderant part of the conveyor (90) is arranged below the guide, optionally below the at least one carriage carried by the guide.

[0083] In an aspect 236 according to any one of aspects 202 to 235 the handling system (1") comprises an auxiliary conveyor (95) engaged to the frame (11") and arranged at the first zone (Z1") of the frame (11"). In an aspect 237 according to the preceding aspect the auxiliary conveyor (95) extends longitudinally between a first and a second end (95a, 95b), along an extension trajectory. In an aspect 238 according to the preceding aspect at least one part of the auxiliary conveyor (95) extends substantially parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame. In an aspect 239 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the auxiliary conveyor (95) has a length defined by the distance between the first and second ends. In an aspect 240 according to the preceding aspect, the length of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is substantially equal to a length of the first zone. In an aspect 241 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the length of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is less than a length of the conveyor (90). In an aspect 242 according to the preceding aspect, the ratio between the length of the conveyor (90) and the length of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is equal to or greater than 1.5, optionally between 2 and 4. In an aspect 243 according to any one of the preceding aspects the length of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is between 2.000 and 6.000 mm, optionally between 3.000 and 5.000 mm.

[0084] In an aspect 244 according to any one of aspects 202 to 243, the first end of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is arranged at the front portion of the frame. In an aspect 245 according to any one of aspects 202 to 244 the second end of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is arranged at the first end of the conveyor (90). In an aspect 246 according to any one of aspects 202 to 245 the second end of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is disposed above the second section of the conveyor (90).

[0085] In an aspect 247 according to any one of aspects 202 to 246 the auxiliary conveyor (95) is interposed at least partially between the first and second lateral edges of the frame. In an aspect 248 according to any one of aspects 202 to 247 the auxiliary conveyor (95) is arranged substantially at a central longitudinal area of the frame. In an aspect 249 according to any one of aspects 202 to 248 the auxiliary conveyor (95), in a use condition of the handling system, is arranged at least partially under the guide (12; 12'; 12"), or above the guide (12; 12'; 12").

[0086] In an aspect 250 according to any one of aspects 202 to 249 the auxiliary conveyor (95) is arranged below the guide. In an aspect 251 according to any one of aspects 202 to 250 at least a part of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is arranged substantially in the compartment, optionally delimited by the frame and the guide. In an aspect 252 according to any one of aspects 202 to 251 the auxiliary conveyor (95) comprises at least one conveyor belt. In an aspect 253 according to any one of aspects 202 to 252 the auxiliary conveyor (95), optionally the conveyor belt, has a transport surface (96) configured to receive and handle inert material, optionally crushed stone of a railway ballast. In an aspect 254 according to the preceding aspect, the transport surface (96) has a width, measured orthogonally to the extension trajectory of the conveyor itself, less than the length of said auxiliary conveyor (95). In an aspect 255 according to the preceding aspect, the width of the transport surface of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is greater than 600 mm, optionally between 700 and 1500 mm. In an aspect 256 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the width of the transport surface of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is less than a width of the frame. In an aspect 257 according to any one of the three preceding aspects, the ratio between the width of the transport surface (96) and a width of the guide, always measured along a direction orthogonal to the extension trajectory of the conveyor itself, is between 0.4 and 1.5, optionally between 0.5 and 1.2. In an aspect 258 according to any one of the preceding four aspects, the width of the transport surface (91) of the conveyor (90) is substantially equal to the width of the transport surface (96) of the auxiliary conveyor (95). In an aspect 259 the auxiliary conveyor (95) at least partially overlaps the conveyor (90). In an aspect 260 according to any one of aspects 202 to 259 the auxiliary conveyor (95) is configured to handle inert material on the support surface (91) of the conveyor (90).

[0087] In an aspect 261 according to any one of aspects 202 to 260 the transport surface (96) of the auxiliary conveyor (95) configured to receive and handle inert material comprises at least one section (96a) substantially parallel to the guide, optionally parallel to the first section (91a) of the transport surface (91) of the conveyor (90). In an aspect 262 according to the preceding aspect, the section (96a) is at least partially arranged above the second section (91b) of the conveyor (90). In an aspect 263 according to any one of the preceding two aspects the section (96a) of the auxiliary conveyor (95), in use, is substantially horizontal.

[0088] In an aspect 264 according to any one of aspects 261 to 264, the transport surface (96) of the auxiliary conveyor (95) configured to receive and handle inert material comprises a second section (96b) extending from the first section away from the guide. In an aspect 265 according to the preceding aspect, the second section (96b) of the auxiliary conveyor (95) is inclined with respect to the first section (96a). In an aspect 266 according to any one of the two preceding aspects, the first and second sections (96a, 96b) are inclined by an angle (β) between 190° and 240°, optionally between 200° and 230°; wherein said angle is subtended by the side wherein the transport surface (96) is configured to directly receive inert material in support.

[0089] In an aspect 267 according to any one of aspects 236 to 266 said handling system comprises at least one auxiliary actuator active on said auxiliary conveyor (95) to allow movement of inert material resting on said auxiliary conveyor (95). In an aspect 268 according to the preceding aspect said auxiliary actuator comprises at least one electric motor. In an aspect 269 according to any one of aspects 236 to 268 said auxiliary conveyor (95) is configured to receive inert material, optionally crushed stone of a railway ballast, and move it outside the frame (11; 11'; 11"). In an aspect 270 according to any one of aspects 236 to 269 the auxiliary conveyor (95) is configured to handle inert material, optionally crushed stone of a railway ballast, on the conveyor (90).

[0090] In an aspect 271 according to any one of aspects 236 to 270 the auxiliary conveyor (95) is movable between an active position to an inactive position. In an aspect 272 according to the preceding aspect the auxiliary conveyor (95), in the inactive position, is entirely arranged above the frame, within the frame footprint. In an aspect 273 according to any one of the preceding two aspects at least part of the auxiliary conveyor, optionally at least part of the second section (96b), in the active position, protrudes from the front portion (11b") of the frame (11").

[0091] In an aspect 274 according to any one of aspects 202 to 273, the handling system (1") comprises at least one control unit connected to and active in command on actuator active on the conveyor (90).

[0092] In an aspect 275 there is provided a process for handling inert material, optionally by means of a handling system (1") in accordance with any one of aspects 202 to 274. In an aspect 276 according to the preceding aspect the process comprises the following steps: arrange inert material on the conveyor (90), moving said inert material by means of said conveyor with respect to the frame, along an advance trajectory, outside said frame.

[0093] In an aspect 277 according to the preceding aspect, the process provides: arrange inert material on the auxiliary conveyor (95), moving inert material by means of said auxiliary conveyor with respect to the frame, along an advancement trajectory, on the conveyor (90).

[0094] In an aspect 278 according to any one of the preceding three aspects, the inert material handling process is performed simultaneously with at least one of: the process for transferring of components (C), the process for stacking components (C), the process for loading components (C).

[0095] In an aspect 279 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the handling system (1; 1'; 1") is attachable with a railway wagon (60; 60'; 60"), optionally of a type optionally comprising at least one carriage (61) configured to support the frame (11; 11'; 11") of said handling system and to move said railway wagon along at least one rail.

[0096] In an aspect 280 according to the preceding aspect, the handling system (1; 1'; 1") is configured to allow for the handling of components (C), optionally of a railway line, and / or inert material, e.g., crushed stone from a railway ballast, with respect to the frame.

[0097] In an aspect 281 according to aspect 279 or 280 the railway wagon (60) comprises at least one handling system (1) in accordance with any one of aspects 1 to 111 and in accordance with any one of aspects 202 to 271, to define a transport railway wagon for handling a plurality of components (C), optionally of a railway line, and inert material, for example a railway ballast.

[0098] In an aspect 282 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the railway wagon (60') comprises at least one handling system (1') according to any one of aspects 1 to 138 and / or according to any one of aspects 202 to 271, to define a stacker railway wagon configured to stack a plurality of components (C), optionally of a railway line, and the movement of inert material, for example crushed stone of a railway ballast.

[0099] In an aspect 283 according to any one of the preceding aspects, the railway wagon (60') comprises at least one handling system (1') in accordance with any one of aspects 1 to 8 and / or according to any one of aspects 145 to 274, defining a load railway wagon configured to receive and move one or more of components (C), optionally of a railway line, and the movement of inert material, for example crushed stone of a railway ballast.

[0100] In an aspect 284 a railway vehicle comprising at least one transport railway wagon (60) according to aspect 281 is provided. In an aspect 285 according to the preceding aspect, the railway vehicle comprises at least one locomotive configured to allow the at least one transport railway wagon (60) to be moved along rails. In an aspect 286 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the railway vehicle comprises: one or more transport railway wagons (60) in accordance with aspect 281, at least one stacker railway wagon (60') in accordance with aspect 282, at least one load railway wagon (60') in accordance with aspect 283.

[0101] In an aspect 287 according to the preceding aspect, the vehicle comprises a plurality of transport railway wagons (60) placed consecutively to each other along a vehicle handling trajectory. In an aspect 288 according to the preceding aspect the plurality of transport railway wagons (60) is constrained to each other at respective longitudinal end portions, optionally by means of an articulated joint.

[0102] In an aspect 289 according to any one of aspects 284 to 288, the vehicle comprises a single stacker railway wagon (60'). In an aspect 290 according to any one of aspects 284 to 289 the stacker railway wagon (60') is directly constrained to a transport railway wagon (60), optionally by means of an articulated joint.

[0103] In an aspect 291 according to any one of aspects 284 to 290, the vehicle comprises a single load railway wagon (60"). In an aspect 292 according to any one of aspects 284 to 291 the load railway wagon (60") is directly constrained to the stacker railway wagon (60'), optionally by means of an articulated joint. In an aspect 293 according to any one of aspects 284 to 292 the stacker railway wagon is interposed between the load railway wagon and a transport railway wagon.

[0104] In an aspect 294 according to any one of aspects 284 to 293 the first carriage (13) of the handling system (1) of a transport railway wagon (60) is configured to move from the first zone (Z1) of the handling system (1) of the same transport railway wagon (60): to the second zone (Z2) of the handling system of an immediately consecutive transport railway wagon, optionally with respect to the advancement trajectory of the vehicle, to the second zone (Z2) of the handling system (1') of a stacker railway wagon.

[0105] In an aspect 295 according to any one of aspects 284 to 294 the first carriage (13) of the handling system (1') of a stacker railway wagon is configured to move from the first zone (Z1) of the handling system (1') of the same stacker railway wagon to the second zone (Z2) of the handling system (1") of the load railway wagon.

[0106] In an aspect 296 according to any one of aspects 284 to 295 the vehicle comprises at least one connecting portion connecting the guide (12) of the handling system (1) of a transport railway wagon with: the guide (12) of the handling system (1) of an immediately consecutive transport railway wagon, optionally with respect to the advancement trajectory of the vehicle, the guide (12') of the handling system (1') of a stacker railway wagon immediately consecutive to the advancement trajectory of the vehicle.

[0107] In an aspect 297 according to the preceding aspect, the connecting portion is configured to allow the movement of the at least one carriage from a railway wagon to a railway wagon immediately consecutive to the advancement trajectory of the vehicle. In an aspect 298 according to any one of the preceding two aspects, the connecting portion defines an extension of the at least one guide of the handling system, the guide protruding from at least one of the rear portion and the front portion of the frame.

[0108] In an aspect 299 according to any one of aspects 284 to 298 the railway vehicle comprises at least one control unit. In an aspect 300 according to any of the preceding aspects, the control unit is connected to and active in command on at least one actuator of the handling systems (1, 1', 1").

[0109] In an aspect 301 a use of the handling system according to any one of the preceding aspects for moving components (C) of a railway line and inert material, optionally crushed stone of a railway ballast, for the construction and / or renewal and / or removal of a railway line is provided. In an aspect 302 according to the preceding aspect, the handling system is usable for moving at least one of: rail track panels, rail sleepers, rails, inert material (optionally crushed stone) of railway ballast.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DESIGNS

[0110] Certain forms of construction and aspects of the invention will be described below with reference to the attached drawings, which are provided for illustrative purposes only and are therefore not limiting wherein: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a railway vehicle comprising two railway wagons; Figure 2 is a perspective figure of a railway wagon comprising a handling system in accordance with a third embodiment; Figures 3 and 4 are detail views of the railway wagon in figure 2; Figure 5 is a sectional view of the railway wagon in figure 2; Figures 6 and 7 are side views of the railway wagon in Figure 2 comprising an auxiliary conveyor arranged in an inactive and an active position respectively; Figures 8 to 12 show, in side view, sequences of a component loading process using a handling system according to Figure 2; Figure 13 is a perspective figure of a railway wagon comprising a handling system in accordance with a second embodiment; Figure 14 is a detailed view of the handling system in Figure 13; Figures 15 to 21 show, in side view, sequences of a stacking process of a plurality of components using a handling system according to Figure 13; Figure 22 is a perspective figure of a railway wagon comprising a handling system in accordance with an initial design embodiment; Figure 23 is a sectional view of the railway wagon in Figure 22; Figures 24 to 30 show, in side view, sequences of a process for transferring a plurality of components using a handling system in accordance with Figure 22. DEFINITIONS AND CONVENTIONS

[0111] Note that in the detailed description corresponding parts illustrated in the various figures are indicated by the same numerical references. The figures may illustrate the subject matter of the invention by means of representations that are not to scale; therefore, parts and components illustrated in the figures may relate only to schematic representations.

[0112] The terms 'horizontal' or 'vertical' used in connection with handling system components refer to a condition of use of the handling system during a procedure of handling and / or laying of components, e.g., of a railway line.

[0113] The term 'in use' basically means a condition of use of the handling system during which it is configured to receive, support and handle one or more components of a railway line and / or inert material.

[0114] The term 'component' of a railway line means at least one of: a rail track panel, one or more sleepers, rails, inert material (optionally crushed stone) of a railway ballast.

[0115] At least one of the handling system, the railway wagon and the railway vehicle may comprise / use at least one control unit for the control of the operating conditions implemented by them and / or for the control of the phases of the movement process of the components. The control unit may be a single unit or may consist of a plurality of separate control units depending on design choices and operational requirements. By 'control unit' is meant a component of electronic type, which may comprise at least one of: a digital processor (CPU), an analogue type circuit, or a combination of one or more digital processors with one or more analogue type circuits. The control unit may be "configured" or "programmed" to perform certain steps: this may be achieved in practice by any means that allows the control unit to be configured or programmed.

[0116] Actuator refers to any device suitable for causing a movement on a body, e.g. upon command from the control unit (reception by the actuator of a command sent by the control unit). The actuator may be electric (e.g. an electric motor), pneumatic, mechanical (e.g. spring), hydraulic or other types.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0117] It is an object of the invention to provide a handling system for components of a railway line, for example a rail track panel, sleepers, rails, inert material (e.g., crushed stone of a railway ballast), reinforced concrete slabs (optionally also referred to as slab-track). The handling system may therefore be used in the railway field for the removal and / or maintenance of railway infrastructure.

[0118] The attached figures show three different embodiments of the handling system which, in all its embodiments, may be coupled with a railway wagon movable along a rail or track. The handling system may be used to move one or more components and / or inert material (e.g., crushed stone), either during a stationary condition wherein the railway wagon is stationary on a railway line or in a moving condition of the railway wagon.Handling system 1

[0119] Figures 22 to 30 show a first embodiment of the handling system 1. This handling system comprises a frame 11 extending lengthwise between a rear portion 11a and a front portion 11b along a longitudinal trajectory T1, optionally rectilinear; the frame11 has: a first zone Z1 defined between the front portion 11b of the frame and an intermediate longitudinal portion of the same frame located substantially midway between the front and rear portions of the frame, at least a second zone Z2 defined between the rear portion 11a of the frame and said intermediate longitudinal portion.

[0120] The first and second zones Z1, Z2 are placed consecutively to each other with respect to the longitudinal trajectory T1; the two zones Z1, Z2 share the intermediate longitudinal portion. The distance between the front portion 11b and the rear portion 11a of the frame11 define a length of the frame 11, which may be greater than 6000 mm, optionally between 8000 and 12000 mm. The first and second zones Z1, Z2 also have respective lengths; in particular, the first and second zones have respective lengths, measured along the longitudinal trajectory, substantially identical to each other, optionally substantially equal to half the overall length of the frame: the sum of the lengths of the first and second zones defines the length of the frame. Dimensionally, the lengths of the first and second zones are substantially between 3000 and 7500 mm, optionally between 3500 and 6000 mm.

[0121] The frame 11 also has a first and second lateral edges 11c, 11d spaced along a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal trajectory T1 of the same frame. In fact, the first and second lateral edges 11c, 11d define a lateral footprint or width of the frame 11.

[0122] The first and second lateral edges may extend along the entire extension of the frame and join the rear portion 11a with the front portion 11b. The first and second lateral edges 11c, 11d are substantially parallel to each other and extend along directions parallel to the longitudinal trajectory T1. The first and second lateral edges 11c, 11d are placed at a minimum distance from each other, which may be greater than 1600 mm, optionally between 1800 and 2800 mm; this distance is measured orthogonally to the longitudinal trajectory T1 of the frame.

[0123] The frame 11 defines the part of the handling system 1 that allows it to be connected to a railway wagon. Frame 11, in use, substantially lies on an ideal substantially orthogonal plane.

[0124] As can be seen from the attached figures, the handling system 1 further comprises at least one guide 12 which, in the first embodiment shown in Figures 22-30, extends from the rear portion 11a to the front portion 11b of the frame, i.e., substantially along the entire length of the frame 11. In detail, the guide 12 extends along a predetermined rectilinear direction, parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame 11 and substantially connects said first and second zones Z1, Z2.

[0125] In more detail, the guide 12 is interposed between the first and second lateral edges 11c, 11d, i.e., substantially placed at a longitudinal centreline of the frame 11, optionally placed midway between the first and second lateral edges 11c, 11d. The guide 12 may be engaged to the frame 11 or, in a non-limiting way, be joined in a single piece to said frame 11: frame 11 and guide 12 may thus define a single piece, for example of metal material.

[0126] The guide 12 is vertically spaced from the frame 11; in fact, the handling system 1 may comprise at least one support frame 19 comprising a plurality of uprights fixed on one side to the frame and on the other side to the guide 12. In particular, a plurality of uprights extends from the frame at the first lateral edge 11c while a plurality of uprights extends from the frame at the first lateral edge 11d; the support frame 19 further comprises a top structure, supported by the uprights, directly carrying the guide 12. Dimensionally, the distance between the frame 11 and the guide 12 is more than 300 mm, optionally between 400 and 1200 mm.

[0127] As can be seen in Figures 23-30, the distance between frame 11 and guide 12 basically allows a compartment to be defined between them in which at least one conveyor 90 is housed, as will be described in more detail below.

[0128] The guide 12 may consist of a single element (e.g., a rail) or may comprise at least one first section 12a and at least one second section 12b (see, for example, Figure 22) parallel to each other, placed at a minimum distance from each other of between 700 mm and 2000 mm, optionally between 1000 mm and 1800 mm; this minimum distance being measured orthogonally to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame 11.

[0129] The guide 12 comprises first and second sections 12a, 12b, said sections may be opposite to each other with respect to an ideal centreline plane of the frame 11, parallel to the longitudinal trajectory T1 and interposed between the first and second lateral edges 11c, 11d of the frame 11: said ideal centreline plane, in condition of use of the handling system 1, extends vertically. The guide 12 may substantially be defined as a kind of rail or track capable of allowing the sliding of at least one carriage as will be better described below.

[0130] The handling system 1 comprises at least one carriage slidingly engaged to the guide 12 and configured to move back and forth between the first and second zones Z1, Z2 or between the first zone and a zone outside the frame 11. In detail, the carriage defines a support surface configured to receive and support one or more components and move them between the first and second zones Z1, Z2 of the frame 11. In the attached figures, a handling system 1 comprising a first and a second carriage 13, 14 has been illustrated in a non-limiting way; obviously, the possibility of realising a handling system 1 comprising only one carriage is not excluded.

[0131] The first carriage 13 slidingly engaged over the guide 12 (outside the compartment) and placed within the lateral footprint of the frame 11; in more detail, the first carriage 13 is configured to move along the guide 12 between the first zone Z1 and a zone outside the frame 11, parallel to the longitudinal trajectory T1. In still further detail, the first carriage 13 may comprise a support surface 13a (see, for example, Figures 22 and 24) configured to receive at least one component; said support surface extends substantially along a plane, in horizontal use. The support plane of the support surface 13a of the first carriage 13 is parallel to the longitudinal trajectory T1. The support surface 13a of the first carriage 13 is configured to maintain an equal distance from the frame 11; this distance is measured orthogonally to the support surface 13a of the first carriage. In fact, the support surface 13a of the first carriage 13, in use, is spaced from the frame 11 in such a way that the component resting on said first carriage may slide over the frame without interfering with said frame. The support surface 13a is therefore placed at a fixed height, spaced from the frame 11.

[0132] The first carriage 13 further comprises a plurality of wheels 13b (figure 24) engaged to the guide 12: the wheels 13b are configured to allow the carriage 13 to slide along said guide 12. In detail, the first carriage 13 comprises a number of wheels 13b equal to or greater than 4, optionally between 4 and 10, even more optionally between 6 and 10.

[0133] Dimensionally, the first carriage 13 has a longitudinal footprint substantially equal to the longitudinal footprint of at least one of the first and second zones Z1, Z2. In fact, the first carriage 13 extends between a first and a second longitudinal end respectively facing the front portion 11b of the frame 11 and the rear portion 11a of the frame 11; the distance between the first and the second end of the first carriage 13 substantially defines a length of said first carriage 13, which may be substantially equal to the length of at least one of the first and the second zones. For example, the length of the first carriage, optionally measured along the longitudinal extension trajectory of the frame, is between 3000 and 6000 mm, optionally between 3500 and 5000 mm.

[0134] The first end of the first carriage 13, when the first carriage is disposed on the first zone Z1 faces the front portion 11b; the second end of the first carriage 13, when the first carriage is disposed on the first zone Z1, substantially faces the intermediate longitudinal portion of the frame. On the other hand, when the first carriage 13 is in correspondence with the zone outside the frame, the second end of said first carriage 13 substantially faces the front portion of the frame. In fact, as will be better described below, the first carriage 13 is configured to exit the frame 11 to reach a guide of an immediately adjacent frame; in fact, the first carriage 13 is configured to slide between two adjacent frames, for example carried by two separate railway wagons. The zone outside the frame, at which said first carriage is movable, is opposed to the first zone, with respect to the second zone: the first zone is therefore interposed between the second zone and said zone outside the frame. The zone outside the frame is arranged at the rear portion 11a of the frame, which is substantially interposed between the zone outside the frame and the intermediate longitudinal portion of the frame.

[0135] The zone outside the frame may, for example, be defined by a second zone of an adjacent frame. In fact, wherein there are two immediately consecutive railway wagons and therefore two adjacent frames 11, the first carriage 13 placed on the first zone Z1 of a frame11 may then move from said first zone to the second zone Z2 of an immediately adjacent frame; in this way, the first carriage 13 may move from one railway wagon to the other in order to allow the transport of components between immediately consecutive frames.

[0136] As mentioned above, the handling system 1 may further comprise a second carriage 14 also slidingly engaged to the guide 12 and placed within the lateral footprint of the frame 11; in detail, the second carriage 14 is configured to move along the guide 12 between the second zone Z2 and the first zone Z1 of the frame, parallel to the longitudinal trajectory T1. In other words, the second carriage 14 is only movable above a single frame 11 and therefore within the longitudinal and lateral footprint of said frame 11.

[0137] The second carriage 14 may comprise a respective support surface 14a (see for example Figures 22 and 24) configured to receive at least one component; said support surface 14a extends substantially along a plane, in horizontal use. The support plane of the second carriage support surface 14a is parallel to the longitudinal trajectory T1. The support surface 14a of the second carriage 14 is configured to maintain an equal distance from the frame 11; this distance is measured orthogonally to the support surface 14a of the second carriage. In fact, the support surface 14a of the second carriage 14, in use, is spaced from the frame 11 in such a way that the component C resting on said second carriage may slide over the frame without interfering with the latter. The support surface 14a is therefore placed at a fixed height, spaced away from the frame 11.

[0138] The support surface 14a of the second carriage 14 is placed at a distance from the frame substantially equal to the distance between the frame and the support surface 13a of the first carriage 13. In fact, the first and second carriages 13, 14 are configured to support a plurality of components (e.g., rail track panels), said components, in use, being arranged at an equal height with respect to the frame 11.

[0139] The second carriage 14 further comprises a plurality of wheels 14b (Figure 24) engaged to the guide 12: the wheels 14b are configured to allow the carriage 14 to slide along said guide 12. In detail, the second carriage 14 comprises a number of wheels 14b equal to or greater than 4, optionally between 4 and 10, even more optionally between 6 and 10.

[0140] Dimensionally, the second carriage 14 has a longitudinal footprint substantially equal to the longitudinal footprint of at least one of the first and second zones Z1, Z2. In fact, the second carriage 14 extends between a first and a second longitudinal end respectively facing the front portion 11b and the rear portion 11a of the frame 11; the distance between the first and the second end of the second carriage 14 substantially defines a length of said second carriage 14, which may be substantially equal to the length of at least one of the first and the second zone Z1, Z2, as well as substantially equal to the length of the first carriage 13. For example, the length of the second carriage 14, optionally measured along the longitudinal extension trajectory of the frame, is between 3000 and 6000 mm, optionally between 3500 and 5000 mm.

[0141] The first end of the second carriage 14, when the second carriage is placed on the second zone Z2, is placed at the intermediate longitudinal portion of the frame while the second end of the second carriage 14 is placed at the rear portion 11a.

[0142] As can be seen in figure 1, the handling system 1 may comprise a connecting element 15 which connects the first and second carriages 13, 14 in motion. In fact, the second carriage 14, during the movement of the first carriage 13 from the first to the second external zone, is configured to move from the second zone Z2 to the first zone Z1. In other words, the connecting element 15 is configured to allow synchronised movement of the first and second carriages such that a movement of the first carriage 13 may define an optionally identical movement (i.e., a movement with equal speed and of equal displacement) of the second carriage 14.

[0143] The connecting element 15 may, in a non-limiting way, comprise a bar hinged, on one side, to the second end of the first carriage 13 and, on the other side, hinged to the first end of the second carriage 14 as shown in figure 22.

[0144] The at least one carriage, optionally said first and second carriages, is moved by means of an actuator. In detail, the actuator is active on at least one of said first and second carriages 13, 14; the movement of at least one of said at least one of said carriages 13, 14, due to the presence of the connecting element 15, allows the movement of the other of said carriages 13, 14. For example, the actuator may be directly active only on the second carriage 14; the possibility of providing an actuator active only on the first carriage 14 or on both carriages is not excluded. The actuator may comprise at least one of: an electric motor, a hydrostatic motor. In detail, the actuator may comprise: at least one drive element connected to the second carriage 14 and configured to move in a sliding motion said second carriage along the guide 12, at least one transmission member engaged to the drive element and movable by rotation around an axis to allow movement of the drive element and consequently of the second carriage 14, at least one motor, for example a hydrostatic motor, active on the transmission member and configured to allow the rotation of that transmission member.

[0145] In fact, the transmission member is directly constrained to the frame 11 in such a way that said transmission member may freely rotate around its own axis; the transmission member comprises at least one of: a toothed wheel, a crown wheel, a friction wheel. The drive element may instead be constrained, on the one hand, to the frame 11 and, on the other hand, is constrained only to at least one carriage, optionally to the second carriage 14. In particular, the drive element comprises at least one chain configured to cooperate with the crown wheel to allow the trailing of the at least one carriage.

[0146] The motor is configured to allow the rotation of the transmission member, the rotation of which activates the drive element which, thanks to the constraint between frame 11 and carriage, allows said carriage to slide along the guide 12.

[0147] As shown in Figures 22, 24-30, the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment comprises a first and second lift 20, 25 configured to lift one or more components from the at least one carriage; of course, the possibility of providing only one lift in accordance with at least one of said first and second lifts 20, 25 described below is not excluded. In fact, each of said first and second lifts 20, 25 is configured to lift one or more components with respect to the frame 11 according to a direction orthogonal to the support plane of said at least one of said first and second carriages, optionally along a direction, in use, vertical.

[0148] In particular, the first lift 20 is engaged to the frame 11 and active at the first zone Z1. In detail, the first lift 20 is configured to move one or more components with respect to the at least one carriage, optionally with respect to at least one of the first carriage 13 and the second carriage 14; the first lift 20 is movable between: a raised position in which the first lift 20 is configured for spacing one or more components from at least one carriage, optionally from at least one of said first and second carriages, a lowered position in which the first lift 20 is configured to allow one or more components to rest on at least one carriage, optionally by at least one of said first and second carriages.

[0149] In fact, the first lift 20, during the movement between the lowered position and the raised position, is configured to lift one or more components with respect to the at least one of the first carriage 13 and the second carriage 14, thereby allowing said components to move away with respect to the frame 11 and thus free said at least one carriage; the first lift 20, during the movement between the raised position and the lowered position is instead configured to move towards the frame 11 and to dispose itself, in use, at least partially below the at least one carriage so that any components carried by the first lift 20 may be unloaded on the at least one carriage, optionally on at least one of said first and second carriages 13, 14.

[0150] The second lift 25 is also engaged to the frame11 and active at the second zone Z2. In detail, the second lift 25 is configured to move one or more components with respect to the at least one carriage, optionally to at least one of the first carriage 13 and the second carriage 14; the second lift 25 is also movable between: a raised position in which the second lift 25 is configured for spacing one or more components from at least one carriage, optionally from at least one of said first and second carriages, a lowered position in which the second lift 25 is configured to allow one or more components to rest on at least one of said first and second carriages.

[0151] In fact, the second lift 25, during the movement between the lowered position and the raised position, is configured to lift one or more components with respect to the at least one carriage, optionally with respect to the at least one of the first carriage 13 and the second carriage 14, thereby enabling said components to be moved away with respect to the frame 11 and thus free said at least one carriage; the second lift 25, during the movement between the raised position and the lowered position is instead configured to move towards the frame 11 and to dispose itself, in use, substantially below the at least one carriage so that any components carried by the second lift 25 may be unloaded on the at least one carriage, optionally on at least one of said first and second carriages 13, 14.

[0152] The use of the first and second lifts 20, 25 in combination with the at least one carriage, allows the handling system 1 to move one or more components C along the longitudinal trajectory T1 of the frame 11; in particular, the combined action of the lifts 20, 25, together with the movement of the at least one carriage (optionally of the first and second carriages), allows to move along the frame of the handling system 1, stacks components from the first zone Z1 to the second zone Z2 of the frame 11, as schematically illustrated in figures 25 to 30. The synchronisation of the movement of the at least one carriage with the movement of the first and second lifts may be controlled by a trained operator by manual activation of various actuators. Alternatively, the procedure may be performed in semi-automatic or automatic mode; the handling system 1 may, in fact, be equipped with at least one control unit connected to at least one actuator of the handling system 1. In detail, the control unit may be connected and active in command on the actuator configured to move at least one carriage, optionally the first and second carriages 13, 14 along guide 12, an actuator 24 of the first lift 20, an actuator 29 of the second lift 25.

[0153] In detail, the control unit is configured to control the handling system 1 in order to carry out the steps of a transfer procedure described below. The handling system 1 may thus comprise one or more sensors configured to emit signals representative of the position of the first lift, the second lift, the first carriage, the second carriage. The control unit may then be configured to receive the signals emitted by the sensors and synchronise the movement of the various elements of the handling system in order to move one or more components C along the frame.

[0154] Figures 24-30 schematically illustrate a process for transferring components C involving their movement from the first zone Z1 of frame 11 to the second zone Z2. Obviously, the possibility of carrying out a reverse movement wherein the components C are moved from the second zone to the first zone is not excluded; such a movement may in fact be performed by synchronising the movements of the first carriage, the second carriage, the first carriage, the second carriage, so that a plurality of components initially arranged on the second carriage may be moved by the same at the first zone Z1, lifted by the first carriage 20 and subsequently placed on the first carriage 13.

[0155] In greater detail, the first and second lifts 20, 25 may be in accordance with the first and second lifts 20, 25 as described in European Patent Application No. EP from paragraph

[0152] to paragraph

[0170] of the patent application as published.

[0156] As shown in the attached figures, the handling system 1 further comprises at least one conveyor 90 also engaged to the frame 11, which extends longitudinally between a first and a second end 90a, 90b, along an extension trajectory at least partially parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame 11.

[0157] The distance between the first and second ends 90a, 90b defines a conveyor 90 length, which may be greater than a length of the first and second zones Z1, Z2. In detail, the length of the conveyor 90 is greater than a length of the first or second carriage and extends at least for the entire length of the second zone Z2. In detail, the conveyor 90 extends for at least the whole of the second zone Z2 and for at least a tract of the first zone Z1: the second end 90b of the conveyor 90 may also protrude from the frame, in particular from the rear portion 11a. In fact, the first end 90a of the conveyor 90 is placed inside a lateral and longitudinal footprint of the frame 11, facing the front portion 11b, while the second end is placed outside the frame: the second end protrudes from the rear portion 11a.; in detail, the ratio between a predetermined length of the tract of the conveyor 90 emerging from the frame 11 and an overall length of said conveyor is between 0.7 and 1.3 , optionally between 0.8 and 1.2.

[0158] In further detail, the conveyor 90 is substantially interposed at least partially between the first and second lateral edges 11c, 11d of the frame 11, substantially at a central longitudinal area of the frame and overlapping the guide 12. In greater detail, the conveyor 90, in a condition of use of the handling system 1, may be arranged at least partially below the guide 12 or above the guide 12. In still greater detail, a preponderant part of the conveyor 90, optionally at least 50% of a surface extension of the conveyor, overlaps the guide 12; the at least one carriage is configured to move above the guide and consequently above a preponderant part of the conveyor 90.

[0159] In the attached figures, a conveyor 90 has been illustrated at least partially below the guide 12: in fact, at least part of conveyor 90 is arranged substantially in the compartment, delimited by the frame and the guide.

[0160] The conveyor 90 is configured to move inert material along the frame 11. The operation of the conveyor 90 is independent of the operation of the first and second lifts 20, 25, as well as the first and second carriages 13, 14; thus, while the first carriage, second carriage, first lift and second lift allow the movement of one or more components (e.g., rail track panels) along the frame, the conveyor 90 allows the simultaneous movement of inert material (e.g., crushed stone of a railway line) which may slide, in a non-limiting way, under the guide 12.

[0161] For example, the conveyor 90 may comprise at least one conveyor belt having a transport surface 91 configured to receive and move inert material with respect to the frame. The transport surface 91 is vertically spaced from the guide 12, for example by a dimension of between 350 and 800 mm, optionally between 400 and 700 mm. The transport surface 91 may also have a width, measured orthogonally to the extension trajectory of the conveyor 90 itself, which is less than its length. In detail, the width of the transport surface 91 of the conveyor 90 may be greater than 600 mm, optionally between 700 and 1500 mm. Further, the width of the transport surface 91 may be less than a width of the frame 11; thus, the conveyor 90 may be arranged in the compartment, substantially in interposition between the first and second lifts, as well as below the guide.

[0162] The width of the transport surface 91 may, however, be greater or less than a guide 12 width; for example, the ratio between the width of the transport surface 91 and the width of the guide 12, always measured along a direction orthogonal to the extension trajectory of the conveyor itself, may be between 0.7 and 1.5, optionally between 0.8 and 1.2.

[0163] As can be seen, for example, from Figures 2 and 4, the transport surface 91 comprises a first section 91a substantially parallel to the guide, a second section 91b extending from the first section away from the guide 12. The second section 91b is entirely disposed within a frame footprint while at least part of the first section 91a protrudes from the frame, optionally from the rear portion 11a. The first section 91a, in a condition of use of the handling system 1, is substantially horizontal while the second section 91b is inclined with respect to the first section. In particular, the first and second sections are inclined by an angle (α) between 190° and 240°, optionally between 200° and 230°; wherein said angle is subtended by the side where the transport surface is configured to directly receive inert material in support.

[0164] The handling system 1 comprises at least one actuator active on the conveyor 90 to allow the movement of inert material resting on said conveyor; said actuator may, for example, comprise at least one electric motor and be active on at least one return roller of the conveyor.

[0165] Additionally, at least a portion of the conveyor 90 may rotate with respect to the frame in a plane substantially parallel to the upper surface of the first and / or second conveyor. In fact, the conveyor may rotate in a plane, in use, substantially horizontal; in this way, the portion of the conveyor 90 protruding from the frame 11 may properly serve an adjacent conveyor even when the railway wagons carrying said conveyors travel a curved tract. For example, the conveyor may rotate by an overall angle of approximately 30° (±15° from a centreline position).

[0166] Of course, the possibility of also providing a vertically movable conveyor so that the conveyor may properly serve an adjacent conveyor even when the railway wagons carrying these conveyors travel over tracts with differences in height is not excluded.Handling system 1'

[0167] Figures 13 to 21 show a second embodiment of the handling system1'. This handling system 1' comprises: a frame11' substantially identical to the frame 11 described above in relation to the first embodiment of handling system 1, a guide 12'substantially identical to the guide 12' described above in relation to the first embodiment of handling system 1.

[0168] In fact, as visible from the attached figures, the frame 11' has the front portion 11b', the rear portion 11a', the first and second lateral edges 11c', 11d', the first and second zones Z1', Z2'. The elements and sub-parts of the frame 11' of the handling system 1', identical to those of the frame 11 of the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment, have been identified with the same numerical references with the addition of the superscript " ' ". Therefore, the description of the elements 11a', 11b', 11c' 11d', Z1', Z2', of the frame 11' will not be duplicated since they are substantially identical in shape, position, structure, size and relation with respect to other elements with respect to the elements 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, Z1, Z2 of the frame 11 described above.

[0169] Identically, the guide 12' is identical in shape, position, structure, size and relationship to other elements with respect to the guide 12 of the handling system 1 described above. In the attached figures, the guide 12' of the handling system 1', in accordance with the second embodiment, in fact, may comprise the sections 12a', 12b', the support frame 19' which distances the guide 12' from the frame 11'. Therefore, the description of the guide 12' will not be duplicated.

[0170] Also the handling system 1', in accordance with the second embodiment, may comprise at least one carriage slidingly engaged to the guide 12' and configured to move back and forth between the first and second zones Z1', Z2' of the frame 11'. In detail, the carriage defines a support surface configured to receive and support one or more components and move them between the first and second zones Z1', Z2' of the frame 11'. In the attached figures, a handling system 1' comprising a first and second carriage 13', 14' has been illustrated in a non-limiting way; obviously, the possibility of realising a handling system 1' comprising only one carriage is not excluded.

[0171] In fact, the handling system 1', according to the second embodiment, shares the same carriage configuration - or first and second carriages 13, 14 - as the handling system 1 according to the first embodiment. The first and second carriages 13', 14' are identical in shape, position, structure, size and relation with respect to other elements with respect to the first and second carriages 13, 14 of the handling system 1 described above. Therefore, the description of the first and second carriages 13', 14', as well as of the elements related to these carriages (for example, the system for handling these carriages and the connection system) will also not be duplicated.

[0172] Identically, the handling system 1' accordance with the second embodiment comprises a second lift 25' substantially identical in shape, size, position, structure and operation to the second lift 25 of the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment. The elements and sub-parts of the second lift 25' of the handling system 1', identical to those of the second lift 25 of the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment, have been identified with the same numerical references with the addition of the superscript " ' ".

[0173] Identically, the handling system 1' in accordance with the second embodiment comprises a conveyor 90' substantially identical in shape, size, position, structure and operation to the conveyor 90 of the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment. The elements and sub-parts of the conveyor 90' of the handling system 1', identical to those of the conveyor 90 of the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment, have been identified with the same numerical references with the addition of the superscript " ' ". In the joined figures, the conveyor 90' of the handling system 1' in accordance with the second embodiment may in fact comprise the first end 90a', the second end 90b', the transport surface 91', the first section 91a', the second section 91b'. Therefore, the description of the conveyor 90' will not be duplicated.

[0174] The 1' handling system, in accordance with the second embodiment, also presents a first lift 20' which is structurally different from the first lift 20 described above.

[0175] The first lift 20' is configured to lift one or more components C from the at least one carriage and thereby one or more components with respect to the frame 11' in a direction orthogonal to the support surface of at least one of said first and second carriages, optionally along a direction, in use, vertical. In particular, the lift 20' is engaged to the frame 11' and active at the first zone Z1'. In fact, as can be seen from Figures 15-21, the first lift 20' is immediately consecutive to the second lift 25' with respect to the longitudinal trajectory T1' of the frame 11' and is configured to superimpose two or more C-components on top of each other and load them onto a single carriage.

[0176] In detail, the lift 20' is configured to move one or more components with respect to at least one of the first carriage 13' and the second carriage 14'. Unlike the first lift 20, the first lift 20' of the handling system 1' may be movable between: a raised position in which the 20' lift is configured for spacing one or more components from at least one carriage, optionally from at least one of said first and second carriages, a lowered position in which the 20' lift is configured to allow one or more components to rest on at least one carriage, optionally by at least one of said first and second carriages, optionally an intermediate position between the lowered and the raised position.

[0177] In fact, the lift 20', during the movement between the lowered position and the raised position, is configured to lift one or more components with respect to the at least one of the first carriage 13' and the second carriage 14', thereby allowing said components to move away with respect to the frame 11' and thus free said at least one carriage; the lift 20', during the movement between the raised position and the lowered position is instead configured to move closer with respect to the frame 11' and to dispose itself, in use, below the at least one carriage so that any components carried by the lift 20' may be unloaded on at least one of said first and second carriages 13', 14'.

[0178] In even greater detail, the first lift 20' during the movement from the lowered position to the intermediate position is always configured for spacing one or more components from said at least one of said first and second carriages 13', 14', while during the movement from the raised position to the intermediate position it is configured to superimpose one or more component C carried by the first lift 20' to at least one further component e.g., carried by at least one of said first and second carriages 13', 14'.

[0179] In the intermediate position, a top portion of the first lift 20' is placed at a shorter distance from the frame 11' than the distance present between the same top portion of the first lift 20' and the frame, when said first lift is in the raised position. In fact, the lowered position represents substantially a lower end-stop position while the raised position represents substantially an upper end-stop position; as will be better described below, the intermediate position represents in fact an operative position of the first lift 20' which allows said first lift 20' to place one or more components C on top of another component C and / or to pick up one or more components placed above another component C in such a way as to create a stack of components to define a sort of stacker or to de-stack components to define a sort of de-stacker.

[0180] In detail, the structure of the first lift 20' may be in accordance with the structure of the ... as described in European Patent Application No. EP 4549653 from paragraph

[0175] to paragraph

[0206] of the patent application as published. Also in accordance with the second embodiment, the handling system 1' may comprise a control unit connected to at least one actuator of the handling system 1' to control the synchronisation of the movements of the at least one carriage (optionally of the first and second carriages 13', 14'), the first lift 20' and the second lift 25'. In detail, the control unit controls the components of the handling system 1' to perform components stacking procedure described below.handling system 1"

[0181] A third embodiment of the handling system 1" is shown in Figures 1-12. Said handling system 1" comprises a frame 11" substantially identical to the frame 11 described above in relation to the first embodiment of the handling system 1. In fact, as can be seen from the attached figures, the frame 11" has the front portion 11b", the rear portion 11a", the first and second lateral edges 11c", 11d", the first and second zones Z1", Z2". The elements and sub-parts of the frame 11" of the handling system 1", identical to those of the frame 11 of the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment have been identified with the same numerical references with the addition of the double superscript ' " '. Therefore, the description of the elements 11a", 11b", 11c" 11d", Z1", Z2", of the frame 11" will not be duplicated since they are substantially identical in shape, position, structure, size and relation with respect to other elements with respect to the elements 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, Z1, Z2 of the frame 11 described above.

[0182] The handling system 1" further comprises a guide 12". Unlike the guide 12 described above, the guide 12" of the handling system 1" extends from the rear portion 11a" up to the intermediate longitudinal portion of the frame. In fact, the guide 12" is only arranged in the vicinity of the second zone Z2". In detail, the guide 12" extends along a predetermined rectilinear direction, parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame 11" for a length substantially equal to the length of the second zone Z2" or substantially identical to the length of at least one carriage configured to slide above said guide.

[0183] In more detail, the guide 12" is interposed between the first and second lateral edges 11c", 11d", i.e. substantially placed at a longitudinal centreline of the frame 11". The guide 12" may be engaged to the frame 11" or, in a non-limiting way, be joined in piece to said frame 11": frame 11" and guide 12" may thus define a single piece, e.g., of metallic material.

[0184] The guide 12" is vertically spaced from the frame 11"; the handling system 1" may in fact comprise at least one support frame 19" comprising a plurality of uprights fixed on one side to the frame and on the other side to the guide 12". In particular, a plurality of uprights extends from the frame at the first lateral edge 11c" while a plurality of uprights extends from the frame at the first lateral edge 11d"; the support frame 19" further comprises a top structure, supported by the uprights, directly carrying the guide 12". Dimensionally, the distance between the frame 11" and the guide 12" is more than 400 mm, optionally between 500 and 1200 mm.

[0185] As can be seen from figure 2, the distance between the frame 11" and the guide 12" substantially allows a compartment to be defined between them in which, as will be described in more detail below, at least one conveyor 90" is housed.

[0186] The guide 12" may consist of a single element (e.g., a rail) or it may comprise at least a first section 12a" and at least a second section 12b" (see e.g. Figure 1) parallel to each other, placed at a minimum distance from each other of between 700 mm and 2000 mm, optionally between 1000 mm and 1800 mm; this minimum distance being measured orthogonally to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame 11".

[0187] In case the guide 12" comprises the first and second sections 12a", 12b", said sections may be opposite to each other with respect to an ideal centre plane of the frame 11", parallel to the longitudinal trajectory T1" and interposed between the first and second lateral edges 11c", 11d" of the frame 11": said ideal centre plane, in condition of use of the handling system 1", extends vertically.

[0188] The guide 12" may substantially be defined as a kind of rail or track that allows at least one carriage to slide as will be better described later.

[0189] As mentioned above, the guide 12" is configured to receive at least one carriage in a sliding manner and thus be arranged at the second zone Z2" of the frame 11". The carriage may, for example, be the first carriage 13 or 13' of an adjacent handling system (so it may not be part of the handling system 1") or it may be part of the handling system 1".

[0190] For example, the handling system 1" may comprise a single carriage in accordance with the first carriage 13 or second carriage 14 of the handling system 1 described above. In the attached figures, a handling system 1" without a carriage has been illustrated in a non-limiting way, presenting a guide 12" configured to receive the first carriage 13' of the handling system 1 described above as in accordance with the second embodiment.

[0191] The handling system 1" in accordance with the third embodiment is without the at least one lift as described for the handling system in accordance with the first and second embodiments. However, the handling system 1" may comprise at least one loader 70 engaged to the frame 11" and movable at least in part of the first zone Z1" to the second zone Z2", and vice versa. The loader 70 is engaged to at least one of the first lateral edge 11c" and the second lateral edge 11d" and movable at least between: a first operating position in which the loader 70 is arranged at least partially at the first zone Z1" and is configured to receive at least one component C, optionally of a railway line, a second operating position in which said loader 70 is arranged at least partially at the second zone Z2" and is configured to have at least one component C on at least one carriage arranged on the guide 12".

[0192] In detail, the loader 70 is substantially arranged at the first and second lateral edges 11c", 11d" of the frame leaving a central longitudinal zone of the frame substantially free. In fact, the loader 70, when arranged at the second zone Z2", is placed at least partially to the side of the guide 12".

[0193] At least one part of the loader 70, during the movement between the first and the second operating position, is configured to move along a substantially and at least partly arched trajectory; in particular, at least one part of the loader 70, during the movement between the first and the second operating position, is configured to roto-translate with respect to the frame 11" so as to lift one or more components C and at the same time move them from the first zone to the second zone; the arcuate and / or roto-translatory motion allows the loader to position the components at the guide 12" which, as described above, is spaced out from the frame 11" (in particular, above the conveyor 90"). In detail, loader 70 comprises: a first shoulder 71 engaged to the frame 11" at the first lateral edge 11c", a second shoulder 72 engaged to the frame 11" at the second lateral edge 11d".

[0194] The first and second shoulders 71, 72 are spaced apart from each other and extend along respective directions parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame 11". In detail, the first shoulder 71 is spaced from a central longitudinal area of the frame 11". The first shoulder 71 extends between a first and a second longitudinal ends 71a, 71b to define a length of the first shoulder which is substantially equal to a length of the first and / or second zone of the frame 11". In detail, the length of the first shoulder 71, measured along the longitudinal trajectory of the frame 11", is substantially equal to a length of the guide 12", in particular greater than 4000 mm, optionally between 4500 and 7000 mm. The first shoulder 72 is also spaced from a central longitudinal area of the frame 11" and is substantially symmetrical to the first shoulder with respect to a longitudinal centre plane of the frame 11". The second shoulder 72 extends between a first and a second longitudinal end 72a, 72b to define a length of the second shoulder which is substantially equal to a length of the first and / or second zone of the frame 11". In detail, the length of the second shoulder 72, measured along the longitudinal trajectory of the frame 11", is substantially equal to a length of the guide 12", in particular greater than 4000 mm, optionally between 4500 and 7000 mm.

[0195] In fact, the first and second shoulders define lateral supports of the handling system 1" parallel to each other and extending along the longitudinal trajectory T1" of the frame 11". The first and second shoulders 71, 72 are arranged at a minimum distance from each other of more than 1500 mm, optionally between 1700 and 2800 mm. In particular, the first and second shoulders 71, 72 define a support surface configured to receive at least one component C of a railway line, for example a rail track panel.

[0196] In even greater detail, the first shoulder 71 comprises a base 73, a slide 75 movable along the base 73.

[0197] The slide 75 is movable at least between a first and a second end position along said base 73, i.e., along a rectilinear sliding direction; said rectilinear sliding direction of the slide 75, in use, lies on a horizontal plane. The base 73 acts as a support and guide for the first shoulder 71; in fact, while the base 73 is only movable with respect to the frame 11" between the first and second operative positions the slide 75, carried by the base 73, which defines at least part of the support plane configured to receive at least one component C is movable together with the base 73 between the first and second operative positions and is also movable with respect to the base 73 between the first and second end positions.

[0198] During the first shoulder movement, and in particular also during the sliding of the slide, the support surface defined by the slide 75 itself is configured to maintain a substantially horizontal position. The movement of the slide 75 with respect to the base 73 may occur when the loader 70 is arranged in the first operating position, or when the loader 70 is arranged in an intermediate position, interposed between the first and second operating positions. In any case, the slide 75 is configured to be arranged in the second end position when the loader 70 is in the second operating position.

[0199] Similar to the first shoulder 71, the second shoulder 72 comprises a base 74, a movable slide 76 sliding along the base 74. The slide 76 is movable at least between a first and a second end position along said base 74, i.e., along a rectilinear sliding direction; said rectilinear sliding direction of the slide 76, in use, lies on a horizontal plane. The base 74 acts as a support and guide for the second shoulder 72; in fact, while the base 74 is only movable with respect to the frame 11" between the first and second operative positions the slide 76, carried by the base 74, which defines at least part of the support plane configured to receive at least one component C is movable together with the base 74 between the first and second operative positions and is also movable with respect to the base 74 between the first and second end positions.

[0200] During the second shoulder movement 72, and in particular also during the sliding of the slide, the support surface defined by the slide 76 itself is configured to maintain a substantially horizontal position. The movement of the slide 76 with respect to the base 74 may occur when the loader 70 is arranged in the first operating position, or when the loader 70 is arranged in an intermediate position, interposed between the first and second operating positions. In any case, the slide 76 of the second shoulder is configured to be arranged in the second end position when the loader 70 is in the second operating position.

[0201] In order to receive and load one or more components C, the first and second shoulders 71, 72 are synchronised in position and movement. In fact, the first and second shoulders (optionally the slides 75, 76) are configured to define a single substantially horizontal support surface in any operational position of the loader 70.

[0202] The loader 70 may be moved by means of an articulated system 80 configured to move said loader from the first to the second operating position. In particular, the articulated system 80 comprises: at least a first frame 81 with an articulated quadrilateral structure interposed between the frame 11" and the first shoulder, at least one active actuator 82 on the first frame to allow movement of the first shoulder from the first to the second operating position, at least a second frame 83 with an articulated quadrilateral structure interposed between the frame 11" and the second shoulder, at least one actuator 84 active on the second frame to allow the second shoulder to be moved from the first to the second operating position.

[0203] The handling system 1" in accordance with the third embodiment comprises a conveyor 90" substantially identical in shape, size, position, structure and operation to the conveyor 90 of the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment. The elements and sub-parts of the conveyor 90" of the handling system 1", which are identical to those of the conveyor 90" of the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment, have been identified with the same numerical references with the addition of the double superscript " " ". In the joined figures, the conveyor 90" of the handling system 1" in accordance with the second embodiment may in fact comprise the first end 90a", the second end 90b", the transport surface 91", the first section 91a", the second section 91b". Therefore, the description of the conveyor 90" will not be duplicated.

[0204] Further, as shown in the attached figures, the handling system 1" in accordance with the third embodiment may further comprise at least one auxiliary conveyor 95 also engaged to the frame 11", which extends longitudinally between a first and a second end 95a, 95b, along an extension trajectory at least partially parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame 11".

[0205] The distance between the first and second ends 95a, 95b defines a length of the auxiliary conveyor 95, which may be substantially equal to a length of the first and second zones Z1", Z2" and / or equal to the length of the at least one carriage (for example the first carriage). In detail, the auxiliary conveyor 95 extends over at least part of the first zone Z1": the second end 95b of the auxiliary conveyor 95 is arranged at the intermediate longitudinal portion of the frame 11" while the first end is arranged at the front portion 11b" of the frame. As will be further described below, the auxiliary conveyor 95 may move between an active position and an inactive position with respect to the frame; in the active position, at least one tract of the auxiliary conveyor 95 may protrude from the frame 11" at the front portion 11b". The length of the auxiliary conveyor 95 is less than the length of the conveyor 90. In particular, the ratio between the length of the conveyor 90 and the auxiliary conveyor 95 is equal to or greater than 1.5, optionally between 2 and 4. In greater detail, the length of the auxiliary conveyor 95 is between 2000 and 6000 mm, optionally between 3000 and 5000 mm.

[0206] In detail, the auxiliary conveyor 95 is substantially interposed at least partially between the first and second lateral edges 11c", 11d" of the frame 11", substantially at a central longitudinal area of the frame spaced from the guide 12". In greater detail, the auxiliary conveyor 95, in the condition of use of the handling system 1, is arranged in continuity of the conveyor at a distance from the frame 11" less than a distance between said frame 11" and the guide 12". In fact, the conveyor 90 and the auxiliary conveyor 95 are vertically spaced from the guide 12" such that they may handle inert material below said guide 12".

[0207] In fact, the auxiliary conveyor 95 is configured to move inert material along the frame 11" and in particular to serve inert material to the conveyor 90. The operation of the auxiliary conveyor 95, as well as that of the conveyor 90, is independent of the operation of the loader 70; thus, while the loader 70 allows the handling of one or more components C (e.g., rail track panels) along the frame 11", the conveyor 90 and the auxiliary conveyor 95 allow the simultaneous handling of inert material (e.g., crushed stone of a railway line) which may slide, in a non-limiting way, under the guide 12".

[0208] For example, the auxiliary conveyor 95 may comprise at least one conveyor belt having a transport surface 96 configured to receive and move inert material with respect to the frame. The transport surface 96 is spaced vertically from the guide 12", for example by between 50 and 900 mm, optionally between 60 and 650 mm. For example, a preponderant part of the transport surface 96 of the auxiliary conveyor 95 may be, in a non-limiting way, substantially at the same vertical height as the transport surface 91 of the conveyor 90.

[0209] The transport surface 96 may also have a width, measured orthogonally to the extension trajectory of the auxiliary conveyor 95 itself, that is less than its length. In detail, the width of the transport surface 96 of the auxiliary conveyor 95 may be greater than 600 mm, optionally between 700 and 1500 mm. Additionally, the width of the transport surface 96 may be less than a width of the frame 11"; thus, the auxiliary conveyor 95 may be arranged in the compartment, substantially between the first and second lifts, as well as below the guide. The width of the transport surface 96 may however be greater or less than a width of the guide 12"; for example, the ratio between the width of the transport surface 96 and a width of the guide 12", always measured along a direction orthogonal to the extension trajectory of the conveyor itself, may be between 0.4 and 1.5, optionally between 0.5 and 1.2. The width of the transport surface 91 of the conveyor 90 may be substantially the same as the width of the transport surface 96 of the auxiliary conveyor 95.

[0210] As can be seen from Figure 3, the transport surface 96 of the auxiliary conveyor 95 also comprises: a first section 96a substantially parallel to the guide 12" and substantially parallel to the first section 91a of conveyor 90, a second section 96b extending from the first section 96a away from the guide 12".

[0211] The first section 96a is arranged substantially entirely within a footprint of the frame 11" while at least a portion of the second section 96a may, in the active condition of the auxiliary conveyor 95, protrude from the front portion 11b" of the frame 11". In particular, as can be seen from Figures 4 and 5, at least a part of the first section 96a of the auxiliary conveyor 95 is placed above the conveyor 90, in particular the second section 91b of the conveyor 90; thus, the auxiliary conveyor 95 may move inert material above the conveyor 90 which, in turn, is configured to move said inert material below the guide 12" and subsequently outside the frame 11".

[0212] The first section 96a, in condition of use of the handling system 1", is substantially horizontal while the second section 96b is inclined with respect to the first section. In particular, the first and second sections are inclined by an angle (β) between 190° and 240°, optionally between 200° and 230°; wherein said angle is subtended by the side wherein the transport surface is configured to directly receive inert material in support.

[0213] The handling system 1 comprises at least one actuator active on the auxiliary conveyor 95 to allow movement of inert material resting on said conveyor; said actuator may, for example, comprise at least one electric motor and be active on at least one return roller of the conveyor belt. The auxiliary conveyor 95 may be independent of the conveyor 90 or be synchronised in its movement with the latter.

[0214] As mentioned above, the auxiliary conveyor 95 is movable between an active position and an inactive position. The auxiliary conveyor 95, in the inactive position, is placed entirely above the frame, within the frame's footprint; in fact, the inactive position is a rest position in which the auxiliary conveyor 95 is placed during transfer phases of the handling system 1".

[0215] During a working condition in which the auxiliary conveyor 95 is configured to receive and handle inert material, said auxiliary conveyor 95 may be moved to the active position in which at least a portion of the second section 96b protrudes from the front portion 11b" of the frame 11".

[0216] The handling system 1" in accordance with the third embodiment may also comprise a control unit connected to at least one actuator of the handling system 1" to control the synchronisation of the movements of the loader 70, the conveyor 90 and the auxiliary conveyor 95. In detail, the control unit is active in command on the elements of the handling system 1" to perform the component loading procedure described below.Process

[0217] A process for loading a plurality of components C by means of a 1" handling system in accordance with the above description, in particular in accordance with the third embodiment described above, is also an object of the invention. As shown in Figures 7-12, the process initially comprises a step of loading one or more components C onto the loader 70 arranged in the active position as well as the first operating position; in this condition, the slides 75, 76 of the first and second shoulders 71, 72 are in the first end position. Following loading of the component onto the loader 70, the component is moved from the first to the second operating position, for example by means of the articulated system 80; the articulated system allows the component to be lifted with respect to the frame 11" and also to be moved from the first zone Z1" of the frame to the second zone Z2".

[0218] When moving the loader 70 from the first to the second operating position or to an intermediate loader stop position located between the first and second operating positions, the process involves the synchronised movement of the slides 75, 76 from the first to the second end position. In fact, before the loader reaches the second operating position, the slides 75, 76 are arranged at the second end position. Furthermore, before the loader 70 reaches the second operating position, the process provides with the arrangement of at least one carriage, for example the first carriage 13', on the guide 12".

[0219] Once the carriage is on the guide 12", the loader 70 is moved to the second operating position so that it may unload the component onto the carriage.

[0220] Simultaneously with the loading of the component C onto the loader 70 and then onto the carriage, the process includes a step of loading inert material, for example crushed stone of a railway ballast, onto the auxiliary conveyor 95, which is configured to serve said inert material to the conveyor 90. In particular, the auxiliary conveyor 95 moves the inert material from the front portion 11b" of the frame 11" in the direction of the rear portion; once the inert material reaches the conveyor 90, the latter moves it in the direction of the front portion 11a" of the frame 11" and subsequently outside the latter.

[0221] It is also an object of the invention to provide a process for stacking a plurality of components C by means of a handling system 1', in accordance with the above description, in particular in accordance with the second embodiment described above.

[0222] The stacking process involves setting the first and second lifts 20', 25' in the lowered position; this phase allows the first and second carriages to move between the first zone Z1', the second zone Z2' and the zone outside the frame without any components placed on these carriages may come into contact with the first and second lifts.

[0223] Thereafter, the process involves loading a first component C onto the first carriage 13'; this step may be performed when the first carriage 13' is arranged on the zone outside the frame. In particular, this step may involve moving the first carriage 13' on the guide 12" of the handling system 1" (figure 10) and then loading a component by means of the loader 70 (figure 11).

[0224] Thereafter, the process involves a step of arranging the first and second carriages 13', 14' respectively at the first and second zones Z1', Z2'; during this step, the first component C is supported by the first carriage 13' as shown in figure 15 while no components C are arranged on the second carriage 14'.

[0225] Thereafter, the process involves a step of raising the first component in relation to the first carriage 13', e.g., by moving the first lift 20' from a lowered to a raised position (figure 16); during this step, the second lift may be placed in the lowered position.

[0226] Thereafter, the process involves a step of moving the second carriage 14' at the first zone Z1' below the first component C; during this step, the first carriage 13' is moved to the zone outside the frame 11', e.g., on the guide 12", so that a second component C may be loaded on said first carriage 13'.

[0227] Next, the process involves moving the first and second carriages 13', 14' respectively at the first and second zones Z1', Z2'; in this condition, the first carriage 13' is placed on the first zone Z1' and supports the second component: above the second component is the first component C supported by the first lift 20' (figure 18) while the second carriage 14' is again unloaded.

[0228] The process then comprises a step of loading the second component onto the first component so that they are arranged on top of each other, supported by the first 13' carriage. This step is performed by moving the first lift from the raised position to an intermediate position. During the above-described phases, the first and second arms 22', 23' of the first lift 20' are arranged in the close position so that they may contact and support one or more components. Following the stacking of the first and second components, the process may involve repeating the above steps in relation to the stacking process to stack three or more components on top of each other.

[0229] In order to perform this process, it is envisaged that the first lift 20', in the intermediate position, moves the first and second arms 22', 23' from the close position to the spaced position in such a way that these arms 22', 23' can be moved from the intermediate position to the lowered position, preventing them from colliding with the first and second components supported by the first carriage 13'.

[0230] Once the lowered position is reached, the first and second arms 22', 23' are moved from the spaced position to the close position so that they may again make contact and lift one or more components.

[0231] Once the lowered position of the first lift 20' is reached and when the arms 22', 23' are arranged in the close position, it is possible to repeat the of the above steps in relation to the stacking process to stack a further third component above the first and second components. In particular, the process, may comprise moving the first lift 20' from the lowered position to the raised position in such a way that the first lift 20' can simultaneously lift the first and second components above the first carriage 13'.

[0232] Subsequently, the process involves loading a third component C onto the first carriage 13'; this step may be performed when the first carriage 13' is arranged on the zone outside the frame. In particular, this step may involve moving the first carriage 13' on the guide 12" of the handling system 1" (figure 10) and then loading a component by means of the loader 70 (figure 11).

[0233] Thereafter, the process involves a phase of arranging the first and second carriages 13', 14' respectively at the first and second zones Z1', Z2'; during this phase, the third component C is supported by the first carriage 13' while the first and second components are arranged above the third component supported by the first lift 20' (no component C is arranged on the second carriage 14').

[0234] Next, the process involves a step of loading the third component onto the first and second components in such a way that they are arranged one above the other to define a stack of components, supported by the first 13' carriage. This phase is performed by moving the first lift from the raised position to the intermediate position. During the above-described phases, the first and second arms 22', 23' of the first lift 20' are arranged in the close position so that they may come into contact and support one or more components.

[0235] Following the stacking of the first, second and third components, the process may involve repeating the above steps in relation to the stacking process to stack four or more components on top of each other.

[0236] Once two or more components have been stacked (a stack consisting of three components has been illustrated in a non-limiting way in the attached figures), the process may involve moving the stack of components from the first carriage 13' to the second carriage 14'. In fact, when the stack of components is arranged on the carriage 13', it is possible to lift the stack with the first lift 20' while the second lift 25' is arranged in the lowered position; subsequently, it is possible to move the second carriage 14' at the first zone Z1', below the stack of components and then to move the first lift 20' from the raised position to the lowered position so as to load said stack on the second carriage 14'. Thereafter, the process may comprise a step of moving the first and second carriage into the first and second zones Z1', Z2' respectively; following such moving step the stacked components are arranged at the first zone Z1'.

[0237] It is also an object of the invention to provide a process for transferring a plurality of components C, for example a stack of components, by means of a handling system 1 in accordance with the above description, in particular in accordance with the first embodiment described above. The process comprises arranging the first carriage 13 at the first zone Z1 and the second carriage 14 at the second zone Z2; in this condition, the first and second lifts are in the lowered position.

[0238] Thereafter, the process comprises a step of arranging on the first carriage 13 a first plurality of components placed one above the other to define a stack of components. Such a step may comprise the sub-step of arranging the second lift 25' of the handling system in accordance with the second embodiment in the raised position, during which it supports a stack of components; in such a condition, the process may comprise a step of moving the first carriage 13 of the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment from the first zone Z1 to the second zone Z2' of the handling system in accordance with the second embodiment wherein the second lift 25' is moved from the raised position to the lowered position so that the stack of components can be loaded onto the first carriage 13 which is then moved again to the first zone Z1 of the frame11 handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment.

[0239] When the first carriage 13 is arranged on the first zone Z1, the process comprises moving the first lift 20 from the lowered position to the raised position to raise the stack of components with respect to the first carriage. Thereafter, during the raised position of the first lift 20, the process comprises a step of moving the first and second carriages 13, 14 with respect to the frame 11 such that the first carriage 13 may move from the first zone to the zone outside the frame 11 while the second carriage 14 may move from the second zone Z2 to the first zone Z1. During such displacement, the first carriage 13 may be moved again at the second zone Z2' of the handling system in accordance with the second embodiment to receive an additional stack of components.

[0240] Thereafter, the process comprises a step of moving the first lift 20 from the raised position to the lowered position such that the stack of components may be placed on the second carriage 14. Following the positioning of the stack of components on the second carriage 14, the process comprises a step of moving the second carriage 14 from the first zone Z1 to the second zone Z2 so as to allow the transfer of a stack of components along the frame 11 and in particular moving said stack from the front portion 11b of the frame towards the rear portion 11a.

[0241] The process may also involve the reiteration of the above steps so that a new stack of components can be moved from the first Z1 zone of frame 11 to the second Z2 zone.

[0242] As mentioned above, the component stack may comprise a number of components equal to or greater than 2, optionally between 2 and 6; each component C may include at least one of: a rail track panel, one or more rail track sleepers, one or more rails.

[0243] During the above-described steps involving the movement of one or more components along the frame, the process may also comprise a simultaneous step of handling inert material, for example crushed stone from a railway ballast, by conveyor 90. As described above, each conveyor 90 protrudes from its respective frame; this allows the conveyor to serve inert material to a conveyor carried by an immediately adjacent railway wagon.

[0244] In particular, the process may comprise a step of loading inert material onto the auxiliary conveyor 95 of the handling system 1" in accordance with the third embodiment. The auxiliary conveyor 95 moves inert material from the first zone Z1" in the direction of the second zone Z2" of the frame 11" in order to arrange said inert material on the conveyor 90 of the handling system 1" in accordance with the third embodiment. The conveyor 90 of the handling system 1" in accordance with the third embodiment protrudes from the frame 11" and is arranged at the first zone Z1' of the handling system 1" in accordance with the second embodiment; in this way, the inert material may be moved by the conveyors of two immediately consecutive handling systems. In the same manner, the conveyor of the handling system 1' in accordance with the second embodiment protrudes from the frame 11' and is arranged at the first zone Z1 of the handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment.

[0245] The activation of conveyor 90 and auxiliary conveyor 95 is independent of the activation of the carriages and lifts; thus, the process may allow independent handling of the inert material with respect to the C components.Railway wagon 60

[0246] With 60, 60', 60" has been collectively referred to as a railway wagon comprising one or more carriages 61 configured to support the frame of a handling system; the carriage is of the type configured to move on a rail and / or track of a railway line.

[0247] For example, the railway wagon 60 may comprise at least one handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment variate to substantially define a transport railway wagon for handling a plurality of components C and inert material. The handling system 1 is supported by one or more carriages 61; the handling system 1 is used to allow the handling of one or more components and inert material along the railway wagon 60, independently of the handling of said railway wagon along a railway line.

[0248] Instead, in figures 13 to 21, a railway wagon 60' comprising a handling system 1' is shown, in accordance with the second embodiment, substantially defining a component C stacker railway wagon. In fact, thanks to the handling system 1', the railway wagon 60' shown in Figures 13-21 is capable of receiving individual components C and arranging them on top of each other to define a stack of components while simultaneously allowing the handling of inert material along the frame 11'. The stacker railway wagon, thanks to the handling system 1', is also capable of handling the stack of components along the frame 11'.

[0249] Figures 1 to 12 show a railway wagon 60" comprising a handling system 1" in accordance with the third embodiment to substantially define a load railway wagon configured to receive at least one component moved along the frame 11" in such a way that it may be served to a carriage; at the same time, the load railway wagon is configured to allow the handling of inert material along the frame 11".Railway vehicle

[0250] It is also an object of the invention to provide a movable railway vehicle along a railway line, for example on a track, comprises at least one railway wagon in accordance with the above. For example, the railway vehicle may comprise: one or more railway wagons 60 for transporting components and for handling inert material (e.g., railway ballast), or one or more railway wagons joined together by couplings and each carrying a handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment, a railway wagon 60' for stacking components and for handling inert material (e.g., crushed stone of a railway ballast), immediately adjacent to a railway wagon 60' for transporting components, wherein said railway wagon 60' carries a handling system 1', in accordance with the second embodiment, a railway wagon 60" for loading components and handling inert material (e.g., crushed stone of a railway ballast) immediately adjacent to a railway wagon 60", wherein said railway wagon 60" for loading components and handling inert material (carries a 1" handling system in accordance with the third embodiment.

[0251] In fact, the railway vehicle 100 thanks to the handling system 1" in accordance with the third embodiment is configured to load components and inert material onto the railway wagon 60" (leading or trailing railway wagon), which are then served to an adjacent railway wagon 60' configured to stack one or more components to define stacks of components and simultaneously move inert material along the railway wagon; this handling is performed by the handling system 1' in accordance with the second embodiment.

[0252] The handling system 1 in accordance with the first embodiment carried by a railway wagon 60 adjacent to the railway wagon 60' for stacking C components; this handling system allows the stacks of components and inert material to be moved along the vehicle 100 to a tail (or head) area of the vehicle.

[0253] The vehicle 100 may be equipped with a locomotive that allows the vehicle to be moved along the railway line, so that, following the laying of components and the definition of a tract of a railway line, the vehicle can be moved along that railway line.

Claims

1. Handling system (1") for components (C) of a railway line comprises: at least one frame (11") extending along a longitudinal trajectory (T1") between a rear portion (11a") and a front portion (11b"), wherein said frame (11") presents: at least a first zone (Z1") extending longitudinally between the front portion of the frame and an intermediate longitudinal portion of the same frame located substantially midway between the rear and front portions of the frame, at least a second zone (Z2") extending longitudinally between the rear portion of the frame and said intermediate longitudinal portion, at least one loader (70) engaged to the frame (11") and movable at least partially between the first zone (Z1") and the second zone (Z2"), wherein the loader (70) is movable at least between: a first operating position in which said loader (70) is arranged at least partially at the first zone (Z1") and is configured to receive at least one component (C) of a railway line, a second operating position in which said loader (70) is arranged at least partially at the second zone (Z2"), characterised by the fact that the loader (70) is constrained to the frame (11") by means of an articulated system (80) configured to move said loader between the first and second operating position.

2. Handling system according to claim 1 comprising at least one guide (12") arranged at the second zone and extending for at least a part of the extension trajectory of the frame substantially parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame, wherein said guide is configured to receive in sliding at least one carriage configured to move one or more components (C) of a railway line, wherein the loader (70), when placed at the second zone (Z2") is placed at the side of the guide (12").

3. Handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the loader is configured to arrange at least one component (C) on at least one carriage arranged on the guide (12") when the loader is arranged in the second operating position.

4. Handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least part of the loader (70), during the movement between the first and second operating positions, is configured to move along a substantially arcuate trajectory.

5. Handling system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (11") has a first and a second lateral edge (11c"; 11d") spaced apart from each other along a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal trajectory of the same frame, wherein the loader (70) comprises: a first shoulder (71) engaged at the frame (11") at the first lateral edge (11c"), a second shoulder (72) engaged to the frame (11") at the second lateral edge (11d"), wherein the first and second shoulders (71, 72) define a support plane configured to receive at least one component (C) of a railway line, for example a rail track panel.

6. Handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the first shoulder (71) comprises a base (73) and a slide (75) movable along the base (73), wherein the slide defines at least part of the support plane configured to receive at least one component (C), wherein the slide of the first shoulder is movable at least between a first and a second end position, wherein the slide (75) of the first shoulder is configured to move from the first to the second end position: when the loader (70) is placed in the first operating position, or when the loader (70) is placed in an intermediate position between the first and second operating position, wherein the second shoulder (72) comprises a base (74) and a slide (76) movable along the base (74), wherein the slide (76) of the second shoulder defines at least part of the support plane configured to receive at least one component (C), wherein the slide (76) of the second shoulder is movable at least between a first and a second end position, wherein the slide (76) of the second shoulder is configured to move from the first to the second end position: when the loader (70) is placed in the first operating position, or when the loader (70) is placed in an intermediate position between the first and second operating position.

7. Handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the slides (75, 76) of the first and second shoulders of the loader are configured to move synchronously from the first to the second end position, and vice versa.

8. Handling system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the articulated system (80) comprises: at least a first frame (81) with an articulated quadrilateral structure interposed between the frame (11") and the first shoulder, at least one actuator (82) active on the first frame to enable the movement of the first shoulder from the first to the second operating position, at least a second frame (83) with an articulated quadrilateral structure interposed between the frame (11") and the second shoulder, at least one actuator (84) active on the second frame to allow the second shoulder to be moved from the first to the second operating position.

9. Handling system according to any one of the preceding claims comprising at least one conveyor (90) engaged to the frame and extending longitudinally between a first and a second end (90a, 90b), along a trajectory substantially parallel to the longitudinal trajectory of the frame, wherein the conveyor (90) has a transport surface (91) configured to receive and handle inert material, optionally crushed stone of a railway ballast.

10. Handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the conveyor (90) is substantially and at least partially side-by-side with the loader (70), when arranged in the first operating position.

11. Handling system according to claim 9 or 10 when dependent on claim 2, wherein the conveyor (90) is arranged at least partially below the guide.

12. Handling system according to the preceding claim, wherein the conveyor (90) extends throughout the second zone and at least a tract of the first zone, wherein the first end of the conveyor (90) faces the front portion of the frame while the second end (90b) of the conveyor (90) protrudes from the frame, wherein the handling system comprises an auxiliary conveyor (95) engaged at the first zone (Z1") of the frame (11") and arranged at the first zone (Z1") of the frame (11"), wherein the auxiliary conveyor (95) has a transport surface (96) configured to receive and handle inert material, optionally crushed stone of a railway ballast, wherein the auxiliary conveyor (95) at least partly overlaps the conveyor (90) and is configured to handle inert material on the transport surface (91) of the conveyor (90).

13. A process for loading components by means of a handling system (1") according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the process comprises the steps of: place at least one component (C) on the loader (70) arranged in the first operating position, place at least one carriage on the guide (12"), move the loader (70) from the first to the second operating position to place the component (C) on the carriage.

14. Railway wagon comprises: at least one handling system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, at least one carriage (61) configured to support the frame (11; 11'; 11") of said handling system and to allow movement of said carriage along at least one rail.

15. Railway vehicle comprising at least one railway wagon according to the preceding claim, wherein the railway vehicle comprises at least one locomotive configured to allow movement of the at least one railway wagon along rails.

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