Work machine comprising a removable power supply unit

Abstract

The invention relates to a work machine (101) comprising a power supply unit (30), which comprises: - an electric propulsion motor (50); - an electric actuation motor (60) separate from the propulsion motor (50); - a frame (40), the propulsion motor (50) and the actuation motor (60) being fastened to the frame (40). The frame (40) is configured so as to be able to be removably fastened to the chassis (2) of the work machine (101) in a fastening position. The power supply unit (30) in the fastening position is accessible from an outer side (A, B) of the chassis (2) so that it can be brought into the fastening position and removed from the fastening position from the outer side (A, B) of the chassis (2).

Description

Working machine comprising a removable power supply unit

[0001] The invention relates to the field of work machines. More specifically, the invention relates to a work machine comprising a removable power supply unit. Technological background

[0002] In the field of work machines, it may be provided that an element for supplying power to the work machine is removable. By "removable" is meant that the element can be detached from the frame of the work machine, for example in order to facilitate the exchange of this element.

[0003] For example, document EP 0 656 315 B1 discloses a thermally powered telescopic forklift truck, in which the thermal engine is supported by two crosspieces secured to one of the two chassis side members. The thermal engine is thus removable and can be removed from the forklift truck using a suitable working system.

[0004] However, the integration of environmental considerations (reduction of greenhouse gas emissions) and regulatory constraints (for warehouse handling, for example) has led to a growing demand for work machines with electrical and non-thermal motors.

[0005] The applicant noted that in this context, an adaptation of the work machine is necessary so that some or all of the elements of the electric motor can be removable, in particular because an electric motor does not have the same external dimensions as a thermal engine. Summary

[0006] One idea underlying the invention is to provide a work machine whose motorization is electric, and in which elements of the electric motorization are removable. Another idea underlying the invention is to ensure that the elements of the electric motorization are made removable so that the assembly and / or maintenance of the work machine are simplified.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the invention provides a working machine comprising:- a chassis comprising a front axle and a rear axle spaced apart in a longitudinal direction of the working machine, at least one of the front axle and the rear axle being a propulsion axle for propelling the chassis;- an actuator for actuating a handling member linked to the chassis or for actuating a stabilizing member or a tilting member linked to the chassis; and- a power supply group, wherein the power supply group comprises:- a propulsion motor, the propulsion motor being an electric motor and coupled to the propulsion axle;- an actuating motor separate from the propulsion motor, the actuating motor being an electric motor and coupled to the actuator;and- a frame, the propulsion motor and the actuating motor being fixed to the frame,in which the power supply unit is configured so as to be removably fixed to the chassis in a fixing position, the fixing position being located between the front axle and the rear axle in the longitudinal direction, andin which the power supply unit in the fixing position is accessible from an outer side of the chassis so as to be able to be brought into the fixing position and removed from the fixing position from the outer side of the chassis, the outer side of the chassis being turned in a transverse direction of the working machine, the transverse direction being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.;

[0008] Thus, the power supply unit can be assembled separately from the working machine, then brought into the fixing position, and then fixed to the chassis. This simplifies the assembly of the working machine, which is interesting from an economic and industrial point of view. Maintenance of the working machine is also simplified since it is sufficient, in reverse order, to remove the power supply unit from the fixing position to carry out its maintenance.

[0009] The power supply unit thus constitutes a modular element of the work machine, which is removable and whose assembly and maintenance are simple. In addition, the power supply unit ensures electric motorization of the work machine since the propulsion motor and the actuating motor are electric motors.

[0010] According to embodiments, such a work machine may comprise one or more of the following features.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the propulsion motor is coupled to the propulsion axle via a mechanical transmission.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the mechanical transmission comprises a transfer case and a transmission shaft, the transfer case comprising an output shaft and an input shaft, the output shaft being coupled to the drive axle via the transmission shaft and being rotatable about a first axis of rotation included in a reference plane, the reference plane being parallel to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction, the input shaft being coupled to the propulsion motor and being rotatable about a second axis of rotation.

[0013] According to one embodiment, an angle between the reference plane and a straight line intersecting the first axis of rotation and the second axis of rotation is between 0° and 30°.

[0014] Thus, the transfer case can have a moderate vertical footprint.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the second axis of rotation is included in the reference plane, in other words said angle is equal to 0°.

[0016] This means that the vertical footprint of the transfer case is minimal.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the transfer case incorporates one or more reduction ratios.

[0018] In one embodiment, the propulsion motor is attached directly to the frame. In another embodiment, the propulsion motor is attached indirectly to the frame. For example, in one embodiment, the transfer case has a housing attached to the frame, and the propulsion motor is attached to the housing.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the power supply group further comprises attachment portions for removably attaching the frame to the chassis in the attachment position. Each of the attachment portions may be integrally formed with the frame, or attached directly to the frame, or attached indirectly to the frame, i.e. attached to an element of the power supply group that is attached to the frame.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the chassis comprises a first side member and a second side member, the first side member and the second side member being parallel to each other and extending parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0021] According to one embodiment, in the fixing position, at least a portion of the frame projects from the first side member in the transverse direction in a direction opposite to the second side member, said outer side of the chassis being turned in said direction opposite to the second side member.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the power supply group comprises three attachment portions, and the attachment portions comprise:- at least one outer attachment portion, the at least one outer attachment portion in the attachment position being located externally to the first spar in the transverse direction in a direction opposite to the second spar; and- at least one inner attachment portion, the at least one inner attachment portion in the attachment position being located opposite the at least one outer attachment portion relative to the first spar in the transverse direction.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the fixing portions comprise:- two outer fixing portions, the outer fixing portions in the fixing position being located externally to the first spar in the transverse direction in a direction opposite to the second spar; and- an inner fixing portion, the inner fixing portion in the fixing position being located opposite the outer fixing portions relative to the first spar in the transverse direction.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the outer fixing portions and / or the inner fixing portion are located higher than the propulsion motor and the actuating motor in a vertical direction of the working machine, the vertical direction being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction. This tends to facilitate the fixing of the frame to the chassis.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the inner attachment portion is attached to the transfer case housing.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the fixing portions comprise:- an outer fixing portion, the outer fixing portion in the fixing position being located externally to the first spar in the transverse direction in a direction opposite to the second spar; and- two inner fixing portions, the inner fixing portions in the fixing position being located opposite the outer fixing portion relative to the first spar in the transverse direction.

[0027] According to one embodiment, the outer fixing portion and / or the inner fixing portions are located higher than the propulsion motor and the actuating motor along the aforementioned vertical direction of the working machine. This tends to facilitate the fixing of the frame to the chassis.

[0028] According to one embodiment, in the fixing position, the interior fixing portions are located between the first side member and the second side member in the transverse direction.

[0029] According to one embodiment, in the fixing position, the transfer case is located between the interior fixing portions in the longitudinal direction.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the work machine further comprises a cabin for an operator of the work machine, the cabin being arranged between the front axle and the rear axle in the longitudinal direction.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the cabin projects from the second side member in the transverse direction in a direction opposite to the first side member. Thus, the cabin projects from the chassis on the side opposite to the aforementioned outer side.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the cabin projects from the first side member in the transverse direction in said direction opposite to the second side member. Thus, the cabin projects from the chassis on the aforementioned outer side. According to one embodiment, in this case, the frame in the fixing position is located lower than the cabin in the aforementioned vertical direction of the working machine.

[0033] According to one embodiment, each of the fixing portions comprises a vibration damping element. For example, the vibration damping element comprises or consists of an elastomer block cylinder.

[0034] These vibration damping elements tend to dampen the vibrations generated in operation by the various elements of the power supply group when the latter is fixed to the chassis. In particular, the vibration damping elements can dampen vibrations generated by the propulsion motor and / or by the actuating motor.

[0035] According to embodiments, the power supply group further comprises some or all of the following elements: - an additional propulsion motor, the additional propulsion motor being an electric motor and coupled to the propulsion axle; - an electric auxiliary pump; - a heat exchanger; - at least one voltage converter for converting an electrical voltage delivered by an electrical power source on board the work machine, such as a battery, to at least one of the propulsion motor, the actuating motor and the additional propulsion motor.

[0036] Vibration damping by vibration damping elements is more efficient the greater the total mass of the power unit. Consequently, the more elements listed above are included in the power unit, the more efficient this vibration damping is.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the heat exchanger is a plate exchanger.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the heat exchanger is configured to carry out a heat exchange between a liquid and a fluid in the gaseous state or in the liquid state.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the power delivery group comprises a hydraulic pump, and the actuating motor is coupled to the actuator via the hydraulic pump.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the heat exchanger is configured to carry out a heat exchange between a heat transfer fluid, in particular water, and a hydraulic fluid driven by the hydraulic pump. According to one embodiment, in this case, the heat transfer fluid ensures thermal regulation of at least one element of the power supply group, in particular at least one of the propulsion motor, the actuating motor, the additional propulsion motor, and said at least one voltage converter.

[0041] The heat transfer fluid can be driven by the aforementioned electric auxiliary pump. According to one embodiment, the working machine further comprises an on-board heat exchanger, and the auxiliary pump is configured to drive the heat transfer fluid to this on-board heat exchanger. The on-board heat exchanger is configured to provide a heat exchange between the heat transfer fluid and the ambient air.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the actuator is a hydraulic cylinder, and the hydraulic pump is configured to drive the hydraulic cylinder.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the working machine comprises a lifting arm articulated to the chassis, the lifting arm functioning as the aforementioned handling member.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the lifting arm extends parallel to the longitudinal direction, and the lifting arm is articulated to the side members between the two side members so as to be pivotally movable relative to the side members around a pivot axis extending in the transverse direction.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the hydraulic cylinder is a lifting cylinder of the lifting arm, a first end of the lifting cylinder being articulated to the frame and a second end of the lifting cylinder being articulated to the lifting arm.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the aforementioned stabilizing member comprises a stabilizing element intended to rest against the ground surface, and the hydraulic cylinder is coupled to the stabilizing element to deploy and retract the stabilizing element. Brief description of the figures

[0047] The invention will be better understood, and other objects, details, characteristics and advantages thereof will appear more clearly during the following description of several particular embodiments of the invention, given solely for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] This is a schematic view, seen from above, of a working machine comprising a power supply group according to a first embodiment.

[0049] This is a schematic view, from the side, of the lifting arm of the working machine.

[0050] This is a schematic view, from the front, of the working machine.

[0051] This is a perspective view of a frame of the power supply unit of the work machine.

[0052] This is a perspective view of the power supply unit of the work machine, together with transmission shafts used to propel the work machine.

[0053] Laest is a perspective view similar to the, from another perspective angle.

[0054] This is a block diagram illustrating heat exchangers of the working machine.

[0055] This is a partial perspective view, seen from below, of the chassis of the working machine.

[0056] This is a partial perspective view similar to the, from another perspective angle, illustrating the attachment of the power supply unit frame to the chassis of the working machine.

[0057] This is a schematic view similar to the, illustrating a mechanical transmission used for the propulsion of the working machine.

[0058] This is a schematic front view, illustrating the geometry of the mechanical transmission of the.

[0059] This is a schematic view similar to the, illustrating different possibilities for fixing the power supply unit frame.

[0060] This is a schematic view similar to the, illustrating different possibilities for fixing the frame of the power supply group according to an alternative embodiment.

[0061] This is a schematic view, seen from above, of a working machine comprising a power supply group according to a second embodiment.

[0062] This is a schematic view similar to the, illustrating different possibilities for fixing the power supply unit frame.

[0063] This is a schematic view similar to the, illustrating different possibilities for fixing the frame of the power supply group according to yet another embodiment variant.

[0064] There is shown in top view a working machine 101 (hereinafter referred to as “the machine 101” for convenience) according to a first embodiment.

[0065] The machine 101 comprises a chassis 2 movable relative to the ground surface S (cf.). To enable the chassis 2 to be propelled, the machine 101 is provided with a front axle 3 and a rear axle 4, spaced apart along the longitudinal direction XX of the machine 101. The front axle 3 is here provided with two front wheels 3A arranged on either side of the chassis 2 along the transverse direction YY of the machine 101. Similarly, the rear axle 4 is provided with two rear wheels 4A arranged on either side of the chassis 2 along the transverse direction YY of the machine 101.

[0066] The chassis 2 comprises two side members 2-1 and 2-2. Side members 2-1 and 2-2 are generally flat metal parts parallel to each other. The largest dimension of side members 2-1 and 2-2 extends in the longitudinal direction XX. Side members 2-1 and 2-2 are spaced in the transverse direction YY.

[0067] The machine 101 is here in the form of a forklift, and thus comprises a lifting arm 98. The lifting arm 98 extends in the longitudinal direction XX. The lifting arm 98 is articulated to the side members 2-1 and 2-2, between the side members 2-1 and 2-2, so as to be pivotally movable relative to the side members 2-1 and 2-2 around a horizontal pivot axis PA. The pivot axis PA is here parallel to the transverse direction YY.

[0068] The lifting arm 98 can be made in various ways, in particular in the form of several telescopic sections, or alternatively in the form of an arm of fixed length. One end of the lifting arm 98 opposite the pivot axis PA can carry a modular tool holder 99 capable of receiving work tools of several types. By work tool, for example, is meant a pair of forks, a bucket, a winch, a clamp, etc.

[0069] With reference to the, the machine 101 comprises a lifting cylinder 98A. The lifting cylinder 98A makes it possible to pivot the lifting arm 98 about the pivot axis PA. For this, a first end of the lifting cylinder 98A is articulated to the frame 2 and a second end of the lifting cylinder 98A is articulated to the lifting arm 98, according to known techniques. Furthermore, the lifting arm 98 comprises a tilting cylinder 99A configured to pivot the modular tool holder 99 relative to the lifting arm 98. For this, a first end of the tilting cylinder 99A is articulated to the lifting arm 98 and a second end of the tilting cylinder 99A is articulated to the modular tool holder 99, according to known techniques. Alternatively, the end of the lifting arm 98 carries a work tool in place of the modular tool holder 99. In this case, the tilt cylinder 99A can be used to pivot this work tool.

[0070] With reference to the, the machine 101 may comprise a cylinder 97A for deploying and retracting a stabilizing element, such as a support pad 97P, intended to rest against the surface of the ground S. For this, a first end of the cylinder 97A is articulated to the chassis 2 (here to the side member 2-1, for example) and a second end of the stabilizing cylinder 97A is articulated to the support pad 97P, according to known techniques.

[0071] Returning to the, the machine 101 further comprises a cabin 96 arranged between the front axle 3 and the rear axle 4 in the longitudinal direction XX. The cabin 96 is configured so that an operator of the machine 101 can take place in the cabin 96. The cabin 96 comprises the elements necessary for the control of the machine 101 by the operator. The cabin 96 projects from the side member 2-2 in the transverse direction YY in a direction opposite to the first side member 2-1.

[0072] The machine 101 further comprises a power supply group 30 (hereinafter referred to as "the group 30" for convenience). As will be detailed below, the group 30 provides the power necessary for propelling the machine 101 via the front axle 3 and / or the rear axle 4, and for actuating some or all of the cylinders 97A, 98A, 99A. The group 30 comprises a frame 40 configured so as to be removably attachable to the chassis 2, and various elements attached to the frame 40 as will be detailed below.

[0073] The frame 40 is shown in isolation. The frame 40 comprises a support structure 45. The support structure 45 is provided so that elements of the group 30 can be fixed to the support structure 45, for example attached to the support structure 45. The support structure 45 can further be shaped so as to support some or all of these elements, for example so as to support them from below in the vertical direction ZZ of the machine 101. Fixing portions 41, 42, 43 are fixed directly or indirectly to the support structure 45 as will be detailed below.

[0074] In laet la, various elements of the group 30 are visualized which are fixed to the support structure 45 of the frame 40. The group 30 comprises a propulsion motor 50, an actuating motor 60 and a transfer case 71.

[0075] The transfer case 71 is fixed to a case support portion 45T (cf.,,) of the support structure 45. In the example shown, the case support portion 45T is planar and has through holes 45T1 (cf.), the through holes 45T1 making it possible to fix the casing 72 of the transfer case 71 to the case support portion 45T using fixing elements, such as screws for example.

[0076] In the example shown, the propulsion motor 50 is attached to the housing 72 of the transfer case 71. Alternatively, the propulsion motor 50 may be attached to the support structure 45, or may be attached to the support structure 45 and the housing 72.

[0077] The propulsion motor 50 is an electric motor. The propulsion motor 50 therefore requires an electrical voltage for its operation. For this, the group 30 preferably comprises a voltage converter 52 (cf.,). The voltage converter 52 converts an electrical voltage delivered by an electrical power source on board the machine 101, such as a battery, and delivers the electrical voltage thus converted to the propulsion motor 50. For example, the voltage converter 52 is an inverter, that is to say a direct-alternating converter. The voltage converter 52 is fixed to a first power supply attachment portion 46C (cf.). In the example shown, the first power supply attachment portion 46C comprises through holes 46C1 (cf.), the through holes 46C1 making it possible to fix the voltage converter 52 to the first power supply attachment portion 46C using fixing elements, such as screws for example.The reference 50A (cf., and) designates a cover or casing fixed to the propulsion motor 50 and tending to protect the electrical cables providing power to the propulsion motor 50.

[0078] The group 30 may further comprise an additional propulsion motor 51 (cf.,). The additional propulsion motor 51 is fixed to the casing 72 and / or to the support structure 45 in a manner similar to the propulsion motor 50. The additional propulsion motor 51 is an electric motor. The group 30 preferably comprises an additional voltage converter 53 (cf.,). The additional voltage converter 53 is fixed to the first power supply attachment portion 46C in a manner similar to the voltage converter 52. The reference 51A (cf.,et) designates a cover or casing fixed to the additional propulsion motor 51 and tending to protect the electric cables providing power to the additional propulsion motor 51.

[0079] The actuating motor 60 (cf.,) is attached to two motor attachment portions 46M (cf.,). In the example shown, the motor attachment portions 46M have through holes 46M1 (cf.), the through holes 46M1 making it possible to attach the actuating motor 60 to the motor attachment portion 46M. The motor attachment portions 46M are opposite each other so as to clear a passage space 49 between them (cf.), the passage space 49 making it possible to couple an output shaft of the actuating motor 60 to a hydraulic pump 65 (cf.).

[0080] The actuating motor 60 is an electric motor. The actuating motor 60 therefore requires an electrical voltage for its operation. For this, the group 30 preferably comprises a voltage converter 61 (cf.,,). The voltage converter 61 converts an electrical voltage delivered by an electrical power source on board the machine 101, such as a battery, and delivers the electrical voltage thus converted to the actuating motor 60. For example, the voltage converter 61 is an inverter, that is to say a direct-alternating converter. The voltage converter 61 is fixed to a second power supply attachment portion 47 (cf.,). In the example shown, the second power supply attachment portion 47 is attached to the support structure 45. The actuating motor 60 can further be fixed to the second power supply attachment portion 47.

[0081] As mentioned above, fixing portions 41, 42, 43 are fixed directly or indirectly to the support structure 45. In the example shown, the fixing portions 41, 42 are attached by screws 41B, 42B to fixing wings 46D (cf.), the fixing wings 46D being formed in one piece with the first power supply fixing portion 46C. The fixing portion 43 comprises a fixing plate 48 (cf.,,), the fixing plate 48 here being attached to an upper face 72T (cf.) of the casing 72 of the transfer case 71.

[0082] In la and la, the chassis 2 of the machine 101 is partially shown, in perspective from below (i.e. from the bottom upwards in the vertical direction ZZ). It can be seen that the chassis 2 comprises two crosspieces 11, 12. The crosspieces 11, 12 are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction XX. The crosspieces 11, 12 extend in the transverse direction YY. Preferably, the crosspieces 11, 12 are parallel to each other. Each of the crosspieces 11, 12 extends between the side members 2-1, 2-2 and passes through the side member 2-1 so as to project from the side member 2-1 in the transverse direction YY in a direction opposite to the side member 2-2.

[0083] The crosspiece 11 comprises a yoke 111. The yoke 111 consists of two cheeks 112, 113. The cheeks 112, 113 are parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction XX. The cheeks 112, 113 have aligned through holes 112F, 113F.

[0084] Similarly, the crosspiece 12 comprises a yoke 121. The yoke 121 consists of two cheeks 122, 123. The cheeks 122, 123 are parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction XX. The cheeks 122, 123 have aligned through holes 122F, 123F.

[0085] A spacer 13 (cf. and) extending in the longitudinal direction XX can be fixed to the crosspieces 11, 12 between the crosspieces 11, 12. The spacer 13 tends to stiffen the crosspieces 11, 12 and therefore to better ensure the fixing of the group 30 which will be described below.

[0086] The chassis 2 further comprises a retaining plate 19 (cf.,,). The retaining plate 19 extends between the side members 2-1, 2-2 and between the cross members 11, 12. For example, the retaining plate 19 is attached to the side members 2-1, 2-2. The retaining plate 19 comprises a yoke 191. The yoke 191 consists of two cheeks 194, 195. The cheeks 194, 195 are parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction XX. The cheeks 194, 195 have aligned through holes 194F, 195F.

[0087] Referring to the, it is seen that the fixing portion 43 and the yoke 191 are dimensioned such that one end of the fixing portion 43 can be received between the cheeks 194, 195. The fixing portion 43 is fixed to the retaining plate 19 via the yoke 191 by means of a pin 243 (cf.) or other similar element, the pin 243 being received in a through hole 43B (cf.) provided for this purpose in the fixing portion 43.

[0088] It is further seen on the figure that the fixing portion 43 comprises a vibration damping element 43A, for example of the elastomer cylinder-block type. The vibration damping element 43A is positioned between the cheeks 194, 195 of the yoke 191 when the fixing portion 43 is fixed to the yoke 191.

[0089] The fixing portions 41, 42 are fixed in a similar manner to the crosspieces 11, 12 via the yokes 111, 112. The fixing portions 41, 42 comprise vibration damping elements 41A, 42A similar to the vibration damping element 43A and through holes 41B, 42B similar to the through hole 43B.

[0090] The yokes 111, 121, 191 project downwards in the vertical direction ZZ, while the fixing portions 41, 42, 43 are located higher than the propulsion motor 50, the additional propulsion motor 51 and the actuating motor 60. With reference to 1 and 1a, it will be appreciated that in this way, it is easy to fix the group 30 to the chassis 2. Indeed, it suffices to bring the group 30 from an outer side A of the chassis 2 (cf. 1 and 1a) to its fixing position shown in 1a, by a translation in the transverse direction YY followed by a translation in the vertical direction ZZ, then to fix the fixing portions 41, 42, 43 to the yokes 111, 121, 191 as just described. The 2-1 side member may have a lower cutout (indicated by the 2-1U marks on the) to facilitate bringing the group 30 into its fixing position.

[0091] It will further be appreciated that the group 30 can be assembled separately from the machine 101, then fixed to the chassis 2 as just described. Then, to complete the installation of the group 30 on the machine 101, it is sufficient to make the necessary connections (electrical cables, hydraulic pipes, control cables, etc.) between the group 30 and the machine 101. This simplifies the assembly of the machine 101, which is advantageous from an economic and industrial point of view. The maintenance of the machine 101 is also simplified since it is sufficient, in reverse order, to undo the connections between the group 30 and the machine 101 and to undo the fixing of the group 30 to the chassis 2 to remove the group 30 and carry out its maintenance.

[0092] The group 30 thus constitutes a modular element of the machine 101, which is removable and whose assembly and maintenance are simple. The group 30 further constitutes a modular element providing electric motorization of the machine 101 since the motors 50 and 60, and where appropriate the motor 51, are electric motors.

[0093] The vibration damping elements 41A, 42A, 43A tend to dampen the vibrations generated in operation by the various elements of the group 30 when the latter is fixed to the chassis 2. This damping of the vibrations by the vibration damping elements 41A, 42A, 43A is all the more efficient as the total mass of the group 30 is large. Now the group 30 brings together a large number of elements (i.e. the motors 50, 51, 61, the voltage converters 52, 53, 62, the hydraulic pump 65, the transfer case 71, etc.) on the frame 40. It will therefore be appreciated that the group 30 also provides very satisfactory damping of the vibrations generated in operation.

[0094] The hydraulic pump 65 may be integrated into a hydraulic circuit of the machine 101 in order to supply pressurized hydraulic fluid to the lifting cylinder 98A and / or to the tilt cylinder 99A (cf.) and / or to the stabilizing cylinder 97A (cf.). Alternatively, the hydraulic pump 65 may supply pressurized hydraulic fluid to still other hydraulic actuators of the machine 101, such as a lifting arm telescoping cylinder 98, a lifting arm compensation cylinder 98 associated with the lifting cylinder 98A, a tilt correction cylinder, etc.

[0095] With reference to laet to la, still further elements may be provided on the group 30, in order to allow even more elements of the machine 101 to be assembled on the group 30 and / or to further increase the total mass of the group 30.

[0096] In the example shown, with reference to Figures 3, 4 and 4A, a heat exchanger 92 is provided for the thermal regulation of various elements of the group 30 and / or of the machine 101. The heat exchanger 92 is, for example, a plate exchanger. The heat exchanger 92 carries out a heat exchange between, on the one hand, a liquid and on the other hand, another fluid in the gaseous state or in the liquid state. A valve 95 is provided to regulate the arrival of the liquid from and to the heat exchanger 92. The pipes for conveying the liquid are not shown so as not to overload the drawing. The heat exchanger 92 is here attached to one of the motor attachment portions 46M. The valve 95 is here attached to the first supply attachment portion 46C.

[0097] In the example shown, with reference to 1, the heat exchanger 92 performs a heat exchange between, on the one hand, water W serving as a heat transfer liquid, and, on the other hand, the hydraulic fluid H of the hydraulic circuit of the machine 101. The hydraulic fluid H may be, for example, hydraulic oil or another suitable hydraulic liquid. The water W may be conveyed from and to the voltage converters 52, 53 and / or 62, and / or from and to the motors 50, 51, 60, and / or from and to other elements of the group 30 requiring thermal regulation, for example cooling. In other words, the heat exchanger 92 performs a heat exchange between the hydraulic fluid H and the water W serving for the thermal regulation of elements of the group 30.

[0098] In the example shown, the group 30 further comprises an auxiliary pump 91, electric. The auxiliary pump 91 is here attached to the fixing plate 48. The auxiliary pump 91 ensures the circulation of the water W. The auxiliary pump 91 can drive the water W towards a heat exchanger 800 (cf. et) on board the machine 101, for example secured to the chassis 2. The heat exchanger 800 carries out a heat exchange between, on the one hand, the water W and, on the other hand, the ambient air C. It is understood that the circulation of the water W can be implemented in various ways. In addition, the heat exchanger 800 can also be used for the thermal regulation of various elements, not shown, of the machine 101.

[0099] Alternatively, the auxiliary pump 91 may be omitted, or the heat exchanger 92 and the valve 95 may be omitted. Alternatively, the auxiliary pump 91 and / or the heat exchanger 92 and / or the valve 95 may be positioned and / or secured differently from the example shown.

[0100] Alternatively, still other elements of the machine 101 may be provided on the group 30.

[0101] Laest is a schematic view similar to the, illustrating an example of a mechanical transmission 70 used for the propulsion of the machine 101. The mechanical transmission 70 comprises transmission shafts 3D, 4D. With reference to the, to theand to the, the transmission shafts 3D, 4D are each coupled to an output shaft of the transfer case 71, here via universal joints 73, 74 such as cardan joints. Returning to the, the transmission shaft 3D is coupled to an input of a differential 3B of the front axle 3, here via a universal joint 3C such as a cardan joint. Similarly, the transmission shaft 4D is coupled to an input of a differential 4B of the rear axle 4, here via a universal joint 4C such as a cardan joint. In operation, the propulsion motor 50 (and the additional propulsion motor 51, if present) thus drives the front axle 3 and the rear axle 4.

[0102] It is specified here that the transfer case 71 can, if desired, incorporate one or more reduction ratios as required. Furthermore, with reference to 1a, 1a, 1a and 1a, it is understood that the universal joints 3C, 73, 74, 4C allow a certain freedom in the positioning of the transfer case 71, and therefore in the positioning of the group 30, relative to the axles 3, 4.

[0103] With reference to and to, a preferable orientation in space of the transfer case 71 is now described. In, the dotted line R2 indicates the axis of rotation of the output shaft of the propulsion motor 50, and the dotted line R1 indicates the axis of rotation of the output shaft of the transfer case 71 coupled to the transmission shaft 3D. Given the axis of rotation R1, a horizontal reference plane P (i.e. parallel to the longitudinal direction XX and the transverse direction YY) including the axis of rotation R1 is defined. Given the reference plane P, an angle β (cf.) is defined between the plane P and a straight line D intersecting the axes of rotation R1 and R2. The absolute value of β is preferably between 0° and 30° inclusive.It is specified here that although therepresents the axis of rotation R2 located above (along the vertical direction ZZ) the reference plane P, the axis of rotation R2 can also be located below the reference plane P, as long as the absolute value of β is between 0° and 30° inclusive.

[0104] With reference to laet to la, it will be appreciated that when the absolute value of β is between 0° and 30° inclusive, the transfer case 71 may have a moderate vertical size.

[0105] More preferably still, β is equal to 0°, that is to say that the axes of rotation R1 and R2 are both included in the horizontal reference plane P. In this case, the vertical space requirement of the transfer case 71 is minimal, as will be appreciated by referring to Figures 3, 4 and 6 which represent a case where β is equal to 0°.

[0106] The same principle is applicable to the axis of rotation R1S of the output shaft of the transfer case 71 coupled to the transmission shaft 4D. Preferably, and as shown schematically in the, the axis of rotation R1S is coincident with the axis of rotation R1.

[0107] Furthermore, the same principle is applicable to the additional propulsion motor 51, although it is not shown in 1 and 1a. Preferably, and as can be seen in 1 and 1a, the propulsion motor 50 and the additional propulsion motor 51 are aligned, so that the axis of rotation of the output shaft of the additional propulsion motor 51 coincides with the axis of rotation R2.

[0108] The mechanical transmission 70 described above is only one example. Many other configurations are possible for the mechanical transmission 70. For example, as a variant, only one of the front axle 3 and the rear axle 4 may be a drive axle; in this case, the 3D or 4D drive shaft corresponding to the non-drive axle may be omitted. According to another variant, the front axle 3 and the rear axle 4 are both drive axles, the transfer case 71 drives a transfer case secured to one of the front axle 3 and the rear axle 4, and this transfer case drives the other of the front axle 3 and the rear axle 4, for example via a longitudinal drive shaft.

[0109] The attachment of the frame 40 to the chassis 2 described above is only an example. The frame 40 can be attached to the chassis 2 in various ways.

[0110] In the example shown in Figures 2, 3, 4 and 6, the fixing portion 43 comprises a fixing plate 48 attached to an upper face 72T of the casing 72 of the transfer case 71. As a variant, the fixing portion 43 can be attached directly to the support structure 45 and not to the casing 72 of the transfer case 71.

[0111] In the example shown in 1a and 1a, the fixing portion 43 is fixed (via the yoke 191) to the chassis 2 closer to the side member 2-1 than to the side member 2-2 in the transverse direction YY. Alternatively, as shown in 1a, the fixing portion 43 can be fixed to the chassis 2:- at an equal distance from the side member 2-1 and the side member 2-2 in the transverse direction YY;- or beyond the side member 2-2 in the transverse direction YY in a direction opposite to the side member 2-1, for example lower than the cabin 96 in the vertical direction ZZ.

[0112] In another embodiment shown in the, the frame 40 can be fixed to the chassis 2 by:- two fixing portions 445, 446 similar to the fixing portions 41, 42 but fixed to the chassis 2 between the side members 2-1, 2-2 in the transverse direction YY (for example at an equal distance from the side member 2-1 and the side member 2-2 in the transverse direction YY), or fixed to the chassis 2 beyond the side member 2-2 in the transverse direction YY in a direction opposite to the side member 2-1, for example lower than the cabin 96 in the vertical direction ZZ; and- a fixing portion 444 similar to the fixing portion 43, but fixed to the chassis 2 beyond the side member 2-1 in the transverse direction YY in a direction opposite to the side member 2-2.With reference to the, it will be appreciated that by providing that the two fixing portions 445, 446 are spaced along the longitudinal direction XX between the side members 2-1, 2-2, it is easy to clear sufficient space for the transfer case 71 on the frame 40 between the two fixing portions 445, 446.

[0113] In the examples described so far, in the fixing position of the group 30, at least a portion of the frame 40 projects from the spar 2-1 in the transverse direction YY in a direction opposite to the spar 2-2. However, other positions are possible.

[0114] In the figure, a top view of a working machine 201 (hereinafter referred to as "the machine 201" for convenience) according to a second embodiment is shown. In this figure, elements similar or identical to those described above bear the same reference signs and are not described again.

[0115] The machine 201 differs from the machine 101 in that, in the fixing position of the group 30, at least a portion of the frame 40 projects from the spar 2-2 in the transverse direction YY in a direction opposite to the spar 2-1. For this, as shown in the, each of the crosspieces 11, 12 extends between the spars 2-1, 2-2 and passes through the spar 2-2 so as to project from the spar 2-1 in the transverse direction YY in a direction opposite to the spar 2-1.

[0116] The frame 40 in the fixing position may be located lower than the cabin 96 in the vertical direction ZZ. In this case, the crosspieces 11, 12 may extend below the cabin 96.

[0117] The frame 40 is fixed to the chassis 2 by:- two fixing portions 541, 542 similar to the fixing portions 41, 42 and fixed respectively to the crosspieces 11, 12; and- a fixing portion 543 similar to the fixing portion 43 and fixed to the retaining plate 19. The principle of this fixing is similar to what was described above, except that the group 30 is brought from the external side B of the chassis 2 corresponding to the cabin 96. This principle is therefore not described again in detail.

[0118] In another embodiment shown in the, the frame 40 can be fixed to the chassis 2 by means of fixing portions 644, 645, 646 positioned as follows:- two fixing portions 645, 646 similar to the fixing portions 445, 446 are fixed to the chassis 2 between the side members 2-1, 2-2 in the transverse direction YY (for example at an equal distance from the side member 2-1 and the side member 2-2 in the transverse direction YY), or fixed to the chassis 2 beyond the side member 2-1 in the transverse direction YY in a direction opposite to the side member 2-2; and- a fixing portion 644 similar to the fixing portion 444 is fixed to the chassis 2 beyond the side member 2-2 in the transverse direction YY in a direction opposite to the side member 2-1, for example lower than the cabin 96 in the vertical direction ZZ.In this embodiment variant also, it is easy to free up sufficient space for the transfer case 71 on the frame 40 between the two fixing portions 445, 446.

[0119] Returning to the, since the cabin 96 and the group 30 are on the same side of the chassis 2 along the transverse direction YY, a counterweight 293 can be provided on the other side of the chassis 2 along the transverse direction YY in order to better ensure lateral balancing of the machine 201. The counterweight 293 can be formed by an aforementioned on-board electrical power source of the machine 201, such as a battery, a generator, a fuel cell and / or by another on-board element of the machine 201 and / or by non-functional ballast.

[0120] It is quite obvious that in the machine 101 as in the machine 201, the respective positions along the transverse direction YY of the longitudinal members 2-1, 2-2 and the elements associated therewith can be exchanged by symmetry. Purely for the sake of explanation, on the, the longitudinal member 2-2 can be positioned in place of the longitudinal member 2-1 and vice versa; the cabin 96 then projects from the longitudinal member 2-2 towards the lower edge of the sheet, while the frame 40 of the group 30 projects from the longitudinal member 2-1 towards the upper edge of the sheet.

[0121] Furthermore, each of the fixing portions 41, 42, 43, 444, 445, 446, 544, 545, 546, 644, 645, 646 can take a large number of forms as long as it ensures fixing of the frame 40 to the chassis 2. It is however preferable that the fixing portions 41, 42, 43, 444, 445, 446, 544, 545, 546, 644, 645, 646 comprise vibration damping elements similar to the vibration damping elements 41A, 42A, 43A, described above.

[0122] Alternatively, the machine 101 or 201 may take other forms than a lifting trolley, in particular a lifting platform, an excavator, etc. In this case also, the hydraulic pump 65 is integrated into a hydraulic circuit of the machine 101 or 201 in order to supply pressurized hydraulic fluid to one or more actuating cylinders of the machine 101 or 201.

[0123] Although the invention has been described in connection with several particular embodiments, it is obvious that it is in no way limited thereto and that it includes all technical equivalents of the means described as well as their combinations if these fall within the scope of the invention.

[0124] The use of the verb "comprise", "comprise" or "include" and its conjugated forms does not exclude the presence of other elements or other steps than those set out in a claim.

[0125] In the claims, any reference sign in parentheses cannot be interpreted as a limitation of the claim.

Claims

A working machine (101; 201) comprising:- a chassis (2) having a front axle (3) and a rear axle (4) spaced apart in a longitudinal direction (XX) of the working machine (101; 201), at least one of the front axle (3) and the rear axle (4) being a propulsion axle for propelling the chassis (2);- an actuator for actuating a handling member connected to the chassis (2) or for actuating a stabilizing member connected to the chassis (2); and- a power supply group (30), wherein the power supply group (30) comprises:- a propulsion motor (50), the propulsion motor (50) being an electric motor and coupled to the propulsion axle;- an actuating motor (60) separate from the propulsion motor (50), the actuating motor (60) being an electric motor and coupled to the actuator;and- a frame (40), the propulsion motor (50) and the actuating motor (60) being fixed to the frame (40),in which the power supply unit (30) is configured so as to be removably fixable to the chassis (2) in a fixing position, the fixing position being located between the front axle (3) and the rear axle (4) in the longitudinal direction (XX), andin which the power supply unit (30) in the fixing position is accessible from an outer side (A, B) of the chassis (2) to be able to be brought into the fixing position and removed from the fixing position from the outer side (A, B) of the chassis (2), the outer side (A, B) of the chassis (2) being turned in a transverse direction (YY) of the working machine (101; 201), the transverse direction (YY) being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (XX).; Working machine (101; 201) according to claim 1, wherein the propulsion motor (50) is coupled to the propulsion axle via a mechanical transmission (70). The working machine (101; 201) of claim 2, wherein the mechanical transmission (70) comprises a transfer case (71) and a transmission shaft (3D; 4D), the transfer case (71) having an output shaft and an input shaft, the output shaft being coupled to the drive axle via the transmission shaft and being rotatable about a first axis of rotation (R1; R1S) included in a reference plane (P), the reference plane (P) being parallel to the longitudinal direction (XX) and the transverse direction (YY), the input shaft being coupled to the propulsion motor (50) and being rotatable about a second axis of rotation (R2), and wherein an angle (β) between the reference plane (P) and a straight line (D) intersecting the first axis of rotation (R1) and the second axis of rotation (R2) is between 0° and 30°. Working machine (101; 201) according to claim 3, wherein the second axis of rotation (R2) is included in the reference plane (P). A working machine (101; 201) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the power supply group (30) further comprises fixing portions (41, 42, 43; 444, 445, 446; 541, 542, 543; 644, 645, 646) for removably fixing the frame (40) to the chassis (2) in the fixing position. Working machine (101; 201) according to claim 5, wherein the chassis (2) comprises a first side member and a second side member, the first side member and the second side member being parallel to each other and extending parallel to the longitudinal direction (XX), and wherein, in the fixing position, at least a portion of the frame (40) projects from the first side member in the transverse direction (YY) in a direction opposite to the second side member, said outer side (A, B) of the chassis (2) being turned in said direction opposite to the second side member. The working machine (101; 201) of claim 6, wherein the power supply group (30) comprises three attachment portions (41, 42, 43; 541, 542, 543; 444, 445, 446; 644, 645, 646), wherein the attachment portions (41, 42, 43; 541, 542, 543; 444, 445, 446; 644, 645, 646) comprise:- at least one outer attachment portion (41, 42; 541, 542; 444; 644), the at least one outer attachment portion (41, 42; 541, 542; 444; 644) in the attachment position being located externally to the first spar following the transverse direction (YY) in a direction opposite to the second spar; and- at least one inner fixing portion (43; 543; 445, 446; 645, 646), the at least one inner fixing portion (43; 543; 445, 446; 645, 646) in the fixing position being located opposite the at least one outer fixing portion (41, 42; 541, 542; 444;644) relative to the first side member in the transverse direction (YY).; Working machine (101; 201) according to claim 7, wherein the fixing portions (41, 42, 43; 541, 542, 543) comprise:- two outer fixing portions (41, 42; 541, 542), the outer fixing portions (41, 42; 541, 542) in the fixing position being located externally to the first spar in the transverse direction (YY) in a direction opposite to the second spar. A working machine (101; 201) according to claim 8 in combination with any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein the transfer case (71) comprises a housing (72) fixed to the frame (40), and the inner fixing portion (43) is fixed to the housing (72). Working machine (101; 201) according to claim 7, wherein the fixing portions (444, 445, 446; 644, 645, 646) comprise:- two inner fixing portions (445, 446; 645, 646), the inner fixing portions (445, 446; 645, 646) in the fixing position being located opposite the outer fixing portion (444; 644) relative to the first side member in the transverse direction (YY). Working machine (101; 201) according to claim 10 in combination with any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein, in the fixing position, the inner fixing portions (445, 446; 645, 646) are located between the first side member and the second side member in the transverse direction (YY), and the transfer case (71) is located between the inner fixing portions (445, 446; 645, 646) in the longitudinal direction (XX). A working machine (101) according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the working machine (101) further comprises a cab (96) for an operator of the working machine, the cab (96) being arranged between the front axle (3) and the rear axle (4) in the longitudinal direction (XX), and the cab (96) projecting from the second side member (2-2) in the transverse direction (YY) in a direction opposite to the first side member (2-1). The working machine (201) according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the working machine (201) further comprises a cabin (96) for an operator of the working machine, the cabin (96) being arranged between the front axle (3) and the rear axle (4) in the longitudinal direction (XX), the cabin (96) projecting from the first side member (2-2) in the transverse direction (YY) in said direction opposite to the second side member (2-1), and wherein the frame (40) in the fixing position is located lower than the cabin (96) in a vertical direction (ZZ) of the working machine (201), the vertical direction (ZZ) being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (XX) and to the transverse direction (YY). Working machine (101; 201) according to any one of claims 5 to 13, wherein each of the fixing portions (41, 42, 43; 444, 445, 446; 541, 542, 543; 644, 645, 646) comprises a vibration damping element (41A, 42A, 43A). A working machine (101; 201) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the power supply group (30) comprises a hydraulic pump (65), the actuator is a hydraulic cylinder (97A, 98A, 99A), and the hydraulic pump (65) is configured to drive the hydraulic cylinder (97A, 98A, 99A). A working machine (101; 201) according to claim 15, further comprising a lifting arm (98) articulated to the frame (2), the lifting arm (98) functioning as the handling member, and wherein the hydraulic cylinder is a lifting cylinder (98A) of the lifting arm (98), a first end of the lifting cylinder (98A) being articulated to the frame (2) and a second end of the lifting cylinder (98A) being articulated to the lifting arm (98).

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