Platform for working at height, provided with a safety guard having a pivoting rail

Abstract

The invention relates to a platform (1) for working at height, comprising: - a front plane comprising a pair of side members (4, 5) and at least one step (6, 7) connecting these side members (4, 5), - a safety guard mounted on the front plane, this safety guard comprising a pair of side barriers, each mounted in an articulated manner on a side member (4, 5), to move between a deployed position, in which each barrier extends substantially perpendicularly to the front plane, and a folded position, - a rear plane mounted in an articulated manner on the front plane, - a rigid bar (29) mounted in an articulated manner on a first side barrier, to move between a substantially horizontal deployed position and a stowed position, the rigid bar (29) forming a rail for the safety guard, and means limiting the travel of the rigid bar (29) between its deployed position and an end position in which it is raised with respect to the deployed position.

Description

[0001] High-rise work platform with a pivoting rail guardrail

[0002] The invention relates to platform-type height access devices. The term "platform" here refers in particular to mobile ladders with a platform, and more precisely to mobile ladders with a working platform with a maximum surface area of ​​1 m 2 and with a maximum height of 5 m, designed to be used by one person at a time. Such platforms are presented in the NF EN 131 - 7 standard.

[0003] The invention relates in particular to individual rolling platforms (PI R) or individual light rolling platforms (PI RL).

[0004] A rolling individual platform is conventionally a secure workstation compliant with standard NF P 93-352. A rolling individual platform is then a platform used for work at height, which can be carried and / or handled by crane in construction work by a single operator, working on a floor at a maximum height of 2.5 m above the ground. PIRs have a means of movement, a means of immobilization and a means of access to the workstation. Portable PI Rs have a mass of less than 50 kg and can be folded without separating their elements. PI Rs are equipped with two wheels to allow them to be handled in the closed position. PIRs have a floor protected on three sides by means of protection against falls from a height. These means of protection against falls include a plinth, extending on three sides of the floor.When the user is at the workstation, the fall protection means include a rail extending to the height of the user's torso, and a sub-rail extending to the height of the user's legs. A mobile closure of access to the workstation is provided. The presence of the operator on the platform must not be an obstacle to the closure of access to the workstation. When the workstation opens outwards, standard NF P 93-352 stipulates that a locking system for the mobile closure is mandatory.

[0005] Document FR2914683 shows an example of PI R.

[0006] A lightweight rolling individual platform is conventionally a secure workstation that complies with the NF P 93-353 standard. A lightweight rolling individual platform is then a platform used for work at height, which can be carried and / or handled by crane in construction work by a single operator, working on a floor at a maximum height of 1.5 m above the ground. PI RLs have a means of movement, a means of immobilization and a means of access to the workstation. PI RLs have a mass of less than 50 kg and can be folded without separating their elements. PI RLs are equipped with wheels to allow their handling in the closed position. PI RLs have a floor protected on three sides by means of protection against falls from a height. These means of protection against falls include a plinth, extending on three sides of the floor.When the user is at the workstation, the fall protection means include a rail extending to the height of the user's torso, and a sub-rail extending to the height of the user's legs. A mobile closure of access to the workstation is provided. The presence of the operator on the platform must not be an obstacle to the closure of access to the workstation. When the workstation opens outwards, standard NF P 93-353 stipulates that a locking system for the mobile closure is mandatory.

[0007] Document FR3023571 shows an example of PI RL.

[0008] Various assemblies have been proposed in the prior art, for the mobile means of closing access to the workstation of platforms, and in particular PIR or PI RL.

[0009] According to a recent design, the platform is equipped with a self-closing gate. Access to the workstation requires unlocking the gate, then crossing it, the gate returning to the closed position under the effect of return elements.

[0010] Using a self-closing gate ensures that the user has a closed workstation.

[0011] The installation of an automatically opening gate in the individual platforms is described in WO2022104377 (LITTLE G IANT), EP39331 57 (CDH), EP3904631 (LITTLE G IANT), EP381 6391 (AUDINNOV), FR3023571 (CDH), FR3067742 (AUDINNOV), FR3027942 (AU DINNOV), US9663989 (WING), US1 0138679 (WING), US1 0705968 (WING), CN203308376U (SUZHOU), CN203308371 U (SUZHOU), CN 1 03233675 (SUZHOU), CN21 0396601 U, CN 1 1 0185380 (SUZHOU), CN206722749U (SH IYA), GB2541446 (TBD).

[0012] Installing an automatic gate has several disadvantages. In particular, the gate structure makes the platform heavier and more expensive.

[0013] Prior art has proposed means of closing access to the platform workstation, which are simpler and less expensive than automatic opening gates.

[0014] According to a first design, the closing means are formed of a simple chain or one or two straps, as presented for example in documents EP3095952 (CDH), EP 1 921 249 (ZARGES), FR2890677 (COMABI), FR27501 52 (COMABI).

[0015] According to a second design, the closing means are formed from semi-rigid rails, as presented for example in documents FR3005986 (CDH), FR3005987 (CDH).

[0016] In both designs, the locking mechanisms are manually installed. It has been found that some users consider the installation of these locking mechanisms unnecessary and a waste of time.

[0017] In the prior art, for access to the platform workstation, closing means have been proposed which are automatically placed at the height of a user's torso, before the user accesses the workstation.

[0018] According to a first type of assembly known from the prior art, the closing means comprise a bar belonging to an articulated assembly, and coming at the height of the torso of a user, when unfolding the platform, as proposed in documents DE202007000406 (HYMER), DE 1 02013005324 (HYM ER), FR301 2841 (TUBESCA), FR292081 5 (TUBESCA).

[0019] According to a second type of assembly known from the prior art, the closing means comprise a U-shaped bar extending at the height of the user's torso, as proposed in documents FR3066223 (CDH), FR2914683 (DUARI B), EP2738345 (AU DINNOV).

[0020] The automatic installation of a bar at the height of a user's torso, before the user accesses the workstation, ensures the presence of this safety guardrail bar, without wasting time for its installation. However, this bar has the disadvantage of obstructing the passage, when climbing onto the platform, the user having to pass under this bar to access the workstation at height.

[0021] Variations of the designs presented above are proposed in WO2019 / 170141 (SCG), CN209385045U (POSH).

[0022] Document CN208294421 U (SUZHOU) describes a stepladder comprising a climbing surface and a rear surface, the stepladder being provided with two side bars and a rear bar forming a guardrail. A first end of the rear bar is pivotally mounted on a side bar, the second end of the rear bar resting in a housing of the second side bar.

[0023] The assembly described in document CN208294421 has many drawbacks. In particular, the rear bar installed by the user, before access to the stepladder platform, hinders the passage of the user's body. Furthermore, the stepladder described in this prior art document is not a rolling platform, of the PIR or PI RL type. No under-rail is provided at the height of the user's legs.

[0024] The invention aims in particular to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art, by proposing a new gate structure adapted to platforms, in particular PI R or PI RL, or platforms used for placing products on shelves.

[0025] For these purposes, the invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a working platform at height comprising: a front plane comprising a pair of side members and at least one step connecting these side members, a guardrail mounted on the front plane, this guardrail comprising a pair of side barriers, each mounted articulated on a side member between a deployed position in which each barrier extends substantially perpendicular to the front plane, and a folded position, a rear plane mounted articulated to the front plane, a rigid bar mounted articulated to a first side barrier, between a deployed position substantially horizontal and a storage position, the rigid bar forming a rail for the guardrail, means limiting the travel of the rigid bar between its deployed position and an extreme position raised relative to the deployed position.By rigid here we mean resistance to deformation, in particular to deformation when a user leans, voluntarily or accidentally, on the bar in the deployed position.

[0026] Advantageously, the travel of the rigid bar between its deployed position and the extreme raised position relative to the deployed position is less than 30°, advantageously less than 20°. The travel of the rigid bar, when it is moved upwards, thus does not allow the user to leave the workstation, this travel being useful only for moving the rigid bar from its deployed position to its storage position.

[0027] Advantageously, when the two side barriers are in the deployed position, the rigid bar is supported and held in its deployed position on the second side barrier, by holding means. By holding means is meant here means which limit, hinder or prohibit the movement of the rigid bar, for example friction, clamping, wedging or locking means.

[0028] In certain implementations, the holding means comprise a manually actuated element chosen from the group comprising a pin, a clip, a latch, a bolt, a wedge.

[0029] In some implementations, the holding means include magnets.

[0030] Advantageously, the rigid bar is kept pressed against the second lateral barrier by manually pressing the bar, causing increasing friction or jamming of the lower surface of the bar against a bearing surface arranged opposite.

[0031] In certain implementations, in the storage position, the rigid bar is substantially vertical and arranged on the side of the front plane forming the climbing plane. The rigid bar then does not hinder the movements of the user of the platform on the front plane forming the climbing plane. Advantageously, the platform comprises a strap provided with means for mounting to the side barriers.

[0032] By strap is meant here a strip of material, for example leather, fabric, in particular coated fabric, polymer material such as polyamide, aramid, polyester.

[0033] In some implementations, the side barriers are each formed from a curved tube. This arrangement combines high strength and low weight for the guardrail. Advantageously, the platform comprises a first part attached to a curved tube forming a first side barrier, this first part carrying an axis for the articulation of the rigid bar. This first part is for example made of polymer material from injection molding, and attached by screwing onto the curved tube forming the side barrier.

[0034] Advantageously, the first part includes a housing for holding the rigid bar in the storage position by friction or snap-fastening.

[0035] In certain implementations, the platform comprises a second part attached to a curved tube forming the second side barrier, this second part carrying means for holding the rigid bar in the deployed position. This second part is for example made of polymer material from injection molding, and attached by screwing onto the curved tube forming the side barrier.

[0036] In advantageous embodiments, the platform is a PIR individual rolling platform, or a lightweight individual rolling platform. Other objects and advantages of the invention will appear in the light of the description of embodiments, given below with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0037] - figure 1 is a perspective view of a platform according to one embodiment, the ascent plane being placed towards the front;

[0038] - figure 2 is a detailed view of the platform shown in figure 1;

[0039] - figure 3 is a detailed view of the rigid guardrail bar, in an extremely high raised position;

[0040] - figure 4 is a perspective view of the guardrail of the platform of figure 1, the rigid bar being in an extremely high raised position;

[0041] - figure 5 is a perspective view of the guardrail of the platform of figure 1, the rigid bar being in an intermediate position of downward movement;

[0042] - figure 6 is a detailed view of the rigid bar in the storage position;

[0043] - Figure 7 is a detail view of the guardrail, the rigid bar being in an intermediate displacement position; - Figure 8 is a perspective view of a support part for means for holding the guardrail bar, in one embodiment; Figure 9 are two views illustrating the holding of the end of a rigid guardrail bar with holding means as shown in Figure 8; Figure 10 are two views illustrating the holding of the end of a rigid guardrail bar with holding means, according to an alternative embodiment;

[0044] - figure 11 illustrates the storage of a strap forming the lower rail of a guardrail, according to one embodiment.

[0045] In the remainder of this description, the terms "horizontal", "vertical", "up", "down", are used in reference to the platform in the deployed position, resting on the ground, as shown in figure 1, and the terms "left" "right" are used in reference to a person placed in front of the platform, and looking at the ascent plane.

[0046] We first refer to figure 1 which represents a platform 1, according to one embodiment, the platform 1 being represented in perspective.

[0047] Platform 1 includes two legs.

[0048] In the embodiment shown, the platform has easy access, a first base 2 forming a climbing surface, the second base 3 forming a crutch.

[0049] In other embodiments, not shown, the platform has dual access, and comprises two legs each forming a climbing plane.

[0050] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the climbing plane comprises two side members 4, 5 and rungs forming steps 6, 7. The steps 6, 7 advantageously comprise a non-slip support surface, this surface being for example embossed, ribbed, perforated. According to various embodiments, the steps 6, 7 comprise an element in the form of a grid, a grating, expanded metal or perforated metal. The steps 6, 7 may be made of metal, in particular aluminum alloy or steel, or composite material.

[0051] In the embodiment shown, the second base 3 comprises two side members 8, 9 and a lower cross member 10. The cross member 10 is in the form of a substantially horizontal bar. In the embodiment shown, the climbing plane comprises two steps 6, 7 and the platform is for example intended for placing products on shelves, particularly in large-scale distribution (large food stores, large DIY stores).

[0052] In other embodiments, not shown, the climbing plane comprises one step or more than two steps. The platform comprises, for example, five to seven steps, the maximum working height then being of the order of three to four meters.

[0053] In some embodiments, the second base comprises a lower crosspiece in the form of a bent or curved tube, forming a U-shaped opening towards the ground. This arrangement allows the platform to be used above an obstacle such as, for example, a toilet bowl.

[0054] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the ascent plane is of fixed height and comprises two steps 6, 7.

[0055] In certain embodiments, not shown, the climbing surface is height-adjustable, and comprises, for example, two telescopic assemblies, the second base also being height-adjustable. When the climbing surface comprises a large number of steps, the platform advantageously comprises stabilizers, on the climbing surface and / or on the second base. The stabilizers are advantageously foldable.

[0056] Each of the two side members 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 carries a non-slip pad 1 1 , 1 2. This pad 1 1 , 1 2 is for example made of elastomer.

[0057] In the embodiment shown, a stabilizer block comprising a non-slip pad is assembled on each side member 4, 5, for example by screwing. The stabilizer block advantageously extends towards the outside of the side member 4, 5, and thus does not form an obstacle for the user's feet when climbing to the workstation.

[0058] In other embodiments, not shown, the fixing of the pad 11, 12 is obtained by force fitting onto the profile forming the support beam 4, 5.

[0059] Each of the two side members 8, 9 of the second base 3 forming a stand carries a non-slip pad 13, 14. This pad is for example made of elastomer. In the embodiment shown, a stabilizer block comprising a non-slip pad is assembled on each side member 8, 9, for example by screwing.

[0060] When a user steps onto the platform 1 in the deployed position as shown in figure 1, the platform 1 rests on the ground on its four non-slip pads 1 1 -14.

[0061] The stabilizing blocks of the stand advantageously extend outwardly of the side members 8, 9, and the stabilizing blocks of the climbing plane advantageously extend outwardly of the side members 4, 5. The support polygon of the platform, defined by the pads 11 - 14, thus has an optimized surface.

[0062] In other embodiments, not shown, the fixing of the pad 13, 14 is obtained by force fitting onto the profile forming the support beam 8, 9.

[0063] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, each of two side members 4, 5 of the lifting plane 2 carries a wheel 15, 16. When a user wishes to move the platform 1, in the deployed position or in the folded position, the lifting plane 2 is inclined relative to the vertical, so that the wheels 15, 16 come into contact with the ground. It is thus possible to move the platform 1 manually and effortlessly, like a wheelbarrow.

[0064] When a user climbs the ascent plane or is on the platform, the wheels 1 5, 1 6 advantageously do not touch the ground.

[0065] In the embodiment shown, each of the two side members 8, 9 of the stand carries a wheel 17, 18, allowing the platform to be moved, in the deployed position for use or in the compact folded position for transport.

[0066] In the embodiment shown, the travel wheels are neither steerable nor load-bearing in the working position of the platform.

[0067] The two legs 1, 2 are mounted articulated to each other, between a compact storage position, in which the two legs are in contact and parallel to each other, and a position of use of the platform, as shown in figure 1.

[0068] In some implementations, the platform comprises a device for locking the side members of the ascent plane, when the platform 1 is in the compact folded position. In one implementation, the locking device comprises deformable tabs forming an elastic hook. When the platform 1 is folded, the side members 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 move closer to those of the stand 3 and open the elastic hooks. The locking of the side members 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 is obtained by snap-fastening.

[0069] Platform 1 includes a horizontal floor 1 9.

[0070] This floor 1 9 is advantageously non-slip and is for example with an embossed, ribbed, or perforated surface.

[0071] The floor can be made of metal, particularly aluminium alloy or steel, or of composite material, for example with a polymer matrix and fibreglass reinforcement.

[0072] A plinth delimits the floor 19, this plinth comprising three sections substantially perpendicular to the floor 19, namely two lateral sections 20, 21 and a junction section 22, opposite the rising plane.

[0073] This baseboard reduces the risk of objects, such as tools, falling onto the floor. This baseboard acts as a stop for the user's feet, reducing the risk of falls.

[0074] The height of the plinth is advantageously ten centimeters or more than ten centimeters.

[0075] In one implementation, the floor and the plinth are made in one piece, for example by injection molding. In other implementations, the plinth is fixed to the floor. In some particular embodiments, the plinth is hinged to the floor between a deployed position for use and a compact folded position for storage or transport of the platform.

[0076] The floor width is advantageously forty centimeters, and its length less than one meter. The platform is therefore suitable for interior work, and can be moved into openings such as doors, or in building staircases.

[0077] Platform 1 includes a guardrail.

[0078] In the embodiment shown, the guardrail comprises a pair of side barriers, each formed by a folded or curved tube. In other embodiments, not shown, one of the side barriers or both side barriers comprise a fabric net or a solid or perforated plate, for example made of expanded metal or perforated metal. The tubes forming the side barriers and the profiles forming the bases may be made in particular of aluminum alloy or steel. When the platform is intended for electrical work, the tubes forming the side barriers and the profiles forming the bases are advantageously made of insulating material, such as a composite material, for example with a polymer matrix and fiberglass or flax fiber.

[0079] Each side barrier is mounted hinged on a side member 4, 5 between a deployed position, shown in figure 1, in which each barrier extends substantially perpendicular to the front plane of ascent, and a folded position.

[0080] Advantageously, in the folded position, each side barrier extends substantially parallel to the climbing plane. The platform is therefore compact, for storage or transport.

[0081] Each side barrier is hinged to its support beam by an upper hinge and a lower hinge.

[0082] Advantageously, locking means allow each side barrier to be held in its deployed position, or in its folded position. These means comprise, for example, a safety pin. Each side barrier comprises an upper rail section 23, a ramp 24 and a lower rail section 25.

[0083] Advantageously, when the side barriers are in the deployed position, the upper rail section 23 extends, at least in part, substantially horizontally, at the height of the torso of a user whose feet are resting on the floor 19.

[0084] Advantageously, when the side barriers are in the deployed position, the lower rail section 25 extends substantially at the height of the legs of a user whose feet are resting on the floor 19.

[0085] In the embodiment shown, the two barriers are of similar structure and mirror each other with respect to a vertical plane. Advantageously, the two lateral barriers are formed by cutting, folding, bending, and assembly, from the same metal tube, for example an aluminum alloy tube of round section, or from a composite tube, for example from pultrusion.

[0086] The side members 4, 5 of the ascent plane have a length greater than the side members 8, 9 of the stand, and the platform 1 carries a shelf 26, fixed at the upper end of the side members 4, 5 of the ascent plane. In certain implementations, this shelf 26 is made of polymer material or composite material.

[0087] The functions of the tablet 26 are adaptable to the desired uses for the platform 1, the tablet being able to serve as a tool holder, and / or as a support for a flexible or rigid tool box, and / or as a support for a container, for example a paint pot.

[0088] In the embodiment shown, the shelf 26 forms a smooth bearing surface. In other implementations, not shown, the shelf comprises one or more grooves or housings, for example for tools.

[0089] Depending in particular on the loads in service, the fixing of the shelf 26 on the side members 4, 5 of the ascent plane can be carried out by force mounting, or by screwing or riveting.

[0090] The two side members 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 delimit a circulation space for the user's body, during his ascent and descent from the platform 1.

[0091] A working space is delimited laterally by the upper sections of the side members 4, 5 of the climbing plane, and the upper sections of the side members 8, 9 of the rear stand.

[0092] This workspace is secure, in particular with regard to the risk of falling, at different heights of the body of a user whose feet are resting on the floor 19.

[0093] A first safety feature, at the height of the user's feet, is provided by the three sections 20-22 of the plinth.

[0094] A second safety feature, at the height of the user's legs, is provided by the lower sections 25 of the side barriers, and by a strip or strap 28, forming the lower rail of the guardrail.

[0095] A third safety, at the height of the user's torso, is provided by the upper sections 23 and by an upper bar 29 mounted hinged to a side barrier.

[0096] In the embodiment shown, the upper bar 29 is mounted in a pivoting manner to the side barrier arranged to the left of the ascent plane.

[0097] It is understood that the upper bar 29 could be mounted in a pivoting manner to the side barrier arranged to the right of the ascent plane. Advantageously, the upper bar 29 is rigid, and is for example made of steel, aluminum alloy or composite material. The lower 23 and upper 24 sections of the side barriers provide safety to the user against lateral tilting of the platform.

[0098] Safety with respect to the forward tilting of the platform 1 is ensured by the presence of the tablet 26 at the height of the user's torso, and by the presence of a crosspiece 30 connecting the side members 8, 9 of the stand, at the height of the user's legs.

[0099] Advantageously, a crosspiece is arranged under the shelf 26, this crosspiece being assembled to the side members 4, 5, this crosspiece being able to serve as a support for the shelf 26 and reinforcing the safety with regard to the forward tilting of the platform.

[0100] Safety with respect to the platform 1 tipping backwards is ensured by the presence of the upper bar 29, at the rear of the workstation, at the height of the user's torso, and by the presence of the lower band or strap 28, at the height of the user's legs.

[0101] Complete 360° security of the workspace is thus provided to the platform user.

[0102] Advantageously, the platform is provided with means preventing the workstation from accidentally opening outwards, for example when the user present in the workspace leans on the upper bar 29 or on the lower strip 28.

[0103] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, no part of the platform projects above the upper sections 23 of the guardrail. The user present in the workspace thus benefits from 360° safety, with no part of the platform obstructing his view or arm movements.

[0104] Advantageously, the surface of the floor 1 9 is included in the support polygon of the platform 1 , defined by the non-slip pads 1 1 -14. These arrangements greatly reduce the risks of the platform tipping over during its use.

[0105] The guardrail is now described in more detail, with reference to figures 2 and following.

[0106] Bar 29 forms a smooth upper part for the guardrail.

[0107] In the embodiment shown, the bar 29 is a rigid, tubular element of round section.

[0108] In other embodiments, not shown, the bar is of oval, square, or polygonal section. This bar 29 is for example made of steel, or of aluminum alloy, or even of composite, for example with polymer matrix and fiberglass reinforcement or plant fiber such as flax fiber.

[0109] In certain implementations, the bar 29 may be brightly colored, possibly coated with a fluorescent, luminescent or phosphorescent material, in order to attract the attention of the user of the platform, or to facilitate work in poorly lit sites.

[0110] The band or strap 28 may likewise be coated with a luminescent or phosphorescent fluorescent material, for example a paint.

[0111] In certain implementations, not shown, a handle-forming element is fixed to the bar 29. This element is advantageously non-slip, non-conductive and compressible, for example made of elastomeric material. Advantageously, the handle-forming element is provided with reliefs, ribs or embossings, forming for example horizontal annular hollows. These arrangements facilitate the application of a vertical force to the bar 29.

[0112] As will appear more fully in the remainder of this description, the manual opening of the guardrail, by pivoting the bar 29, is only possible when a vertical manual force is applied to the bar 29, from the bottom upwards.

[0113] In some implementations, this effort is made against a return means.

[0114] The direction of such an effort excludes it from occurring involuntarily. The stiffness of the possible return means is advantageously relatively high, eliminating any risk of accidental opening of the gate.

[0115] The bar 29 comprises a first end part 40 pivotally mounted around an axis 41.

[0116] In the embodiment shown, a part 42 is fixed to the curved tube forming the left side barrier, this part 42 carrying the axis 41 of articulation of the bar 29. Advantageously, the part 42 is produced by injection molding of a polymer material and fits the curve of the curved tube forming the left side barrier.

[0117] The pivoting maneuver of the bar 29 is carried out with the left hand, the user of the platform keeping the right hand free. In other embodiments, not shown, the bar 29 is pivotally articulated relative to the lateral barrier located to the right of the ascent plane.

[0118] When the side barrier is in the deployed position for use of the platform 1, the pivot axis 41 of the bar 29 is substantially horizontal.

[0119] In the embodiment shown, the bar 29 extends over the entire width of the ascent plane and comes to bear on the second side barrier, when the guardrail is closed.

[0120] In other embodiments, not shown, each of the two side barriers carries a rotation axis support for a guardrail closing bar.

[0121] The part 42 supporting the pivot axis 41 is attached to the curved tube forming the left side barrier, for example by screwing or riveting.

[0122] Likewise, advantageously, a part 43 forms a support for a means of holding the bar 29 in the closed position of the guardrail, this part 43 being attached to the curved tube forming the right side barrier, for example by screwing or riveting.

[0123] This part 43 is for example made of polymer material, for example from injection, and fits the curve of the curved tube forming the right side barrier.

[0124] Means limit the travel of the rigid bar 29 between its deployed position and an extreme position raised relative to the deployed position.

[0125] This limited movement of the bar 29, pivoting upwards, is carried out manually, by rotating the bar 29 counterclockwise, for an observer placed opposite the ascent plane.

[0126] This rotation is carried out by pivoting around the axis 41.

[0127] Advantageously, the upward pivoting travel of the bar 29 is limited to less than 30°, and even more advantageously to less than 20°, relative to the horizontal position of the bar 29, this horizontal position being that of closing the workstation.

[0128] This limited upward travel of the bar 29 does not allow the user of the platform 1 to leave the workstation, and is only used to unhook the bar 29 from its support on the part 43. When the bar 29 has been unhooked from its support on the part 43, a manual pivoting movement of the bar is possible, by pivoting downwards, in a clockwise direction, for an observer placed opposite the ascent plane.

[0129] In the embodiment shown, when the bar 29 rotates counterclockwise, the first end portion 40 of the bar 29 comes into abutment against a surface 44 of the part 42.

[0130] Advantageously, the first end part 40 of the bar 29 is provided with a sleeve 45. This sleeve 45 is for example made of the same polymer material as that of the part 42.

[0131] Advantageously, the sleeve 45 is made of compressible material such as an elastomer.

[0132] These arrangements reduce noise when maneuvering the bar 29 upwards, and protect the first end portion 41 of the bar 29 from damage.

[0133] When the first end part 40 of the bar 29 is in abutment against the surface 44 of the part 42, the sleeve 45, advantageously made of elastomer, absorbs part of the manual effort of maneuvering the bar 29 upwards and transmits a sensation of increasing resistance to the maneuver, dissuading the user from continuing the maneuver of rotating the bar 29 in the counterclockwise direction, beyond an angle of the order of 10° to 20° for example, relative to the horizontal.

[0134] When the user wishes to leave the workstation at height, the bar 29 must be manually operated clockwise.

[0135] This downward, clockwise pivoting movement is advantageously carried out to a storage position, in which the bar 29 is substantially vertical.

[0136] This maneuver is facilitated by the bar's own weight 29.

[0137] In some implementations, this clockwise pivoting movement is performed against a return means, for example a torsion spring. These arrangements make it possible to avoid a sudden movement of the bar 29.

[0138] Advantageously, the part 42 comprises a housing or a reservation 47 in which the bar 29 slides with friction or elastic fitting, the bar 29 then extending in the same plane as the side barrier.

[0139] For these purposes, the housing or reservation 47 comprises at least one relief, a projection, a bump, or a protuberance.

[0140] These provisions reduce the risk of the bar 29 accidentally coming out of its storage position.

[0141] The second end portion 50 of the bar 29 and the holding of the bar 29 in the deployed position are now described.

[0142] Advantageously, the second end part 50 of the bar 29 is provided with a sleeve 51. This sleeve 51 is for example made of the same polymer material as that of the part 43.

[0143] Advantageously, the sleeve 51 is made of a compressible material such as an elastomer. This arrangement reduces noise pollution when handling the bar 29.

[0144] Part 43 forms a support for holding means for bar 29, in the closed position of the guardrail.

[0145] The part 43 has a groove 52, opening upwards. In the embodiment shown, the groove 52 is of U-shaped section.

[0146] In this groove 52 is arranged a support stop for the second extreme part 50 of the bar 29.

[0147] In the embodiment shown, this support stop comprises two identical parallel cylindrical rods 54, 55, extending substantially horizontally, when the guardrail is deployed.

[0148] The end part 50 of the bar 29 has a hook or harpoon shape.

[0149] Advantageously, when the bar 29 is brought into the groove 52, an increasing friction force is applied when the end part 50 of the bar 29 comes into contact with the rod 54 or the two rods 54, 55.

[0150] These arrangements make it possible to use the same part 43 for different rise plane widths. As shown diagrammatically in FIG. 9, when the rise plane has a first width, the hook-shaped end portion of the bar 29 rests on a first rod 55 (FIG. 9A). When the rise plane has a second width, greater than the first width, the hook-shaped end portion of the bar 29 is inserted between the two rods 54, 55 (FIG. 9B).

[0151] Advantageously, the part 43 has a slope 56 making it possible to guide the bar 29 to the locking housing. Thus, when a user grasps the bar 29 to bring it from its vertical storage position to its horizontal deployed position, the bar 29 comes into contact with the slope 56 of the part 43 when rotated upwards, which thus forms a guide surface or cam for the movement of the bar 29.

[0152] The user feels the bar 29 coming into contact with the part 43, and its sliding against the slope 56, this sensation signaling to the user that the bar is close to its desired deployed horizontal position.

[0153] To hook the bar into its horizontal position, the user continues to maneuver the bar in an anticlockwise direction, for an observer placed facing the front plane, the travel of the bar being limited, as has been explained, beyond the deployed horizontal position, to an angle of the order of 20° for example.

[0154] Advantageously, the groove 52 has a slightly narrowed opening, guaranteeing locking of the bar 29, even in the presence of shocks.

[0155] An implementation is shown schematically in figure 10. The opening of the groove 52 of the part 43 has a restriction, so that a simple upward pull on the bar 29 does not allow it to exit the groove 52 (figure 10A). To be able to release the bar 29 from the groove 52, it is necessary to move the bar 29 in slight rotation in a horizontal plane, then to perform before exerting an upward pull on the bar 29 (figure 10B).

[0156] As appears in particular in view of the description made with reference to figures 5, 7 or 10, the pivoting of the bar 29 around its axis 41 does not take place along a vertical plane, and includes a horizontal component.

[0157] The presence of this horizontal component reduces the risk of the bar accidentally coming loose: the user must exert a horizontal force, then a vertical force upwards, then move the bar downwards to bring the bar from its deployed horizontal position to its vertical storage position.

[0158] The strap or band 28 is provided with means for fixing to the two side barriers. Advantageously, the strap 28 is permanently fixed to one of the side barriers, for example the left side barrier, and the strap 28 is provided with means for mounting and dismounting on the second side barrier. In the embodiment shown, these means for mounting the strap 28 comprise a hook 60.

[0159] Advantageously, the first part 42 supporting the pivot axis 41 of the bar 29 is provided with a reservation 61 for holding the hook 60 of the strap 28. Thus, the strap 28 is, in the storage position, arranged on the side of the front plane and does not hinder the movements of the user when going up or down the platform. In certain embodiments, the strap 28 is slightly elastically deformable. In other implementations, the strap 28 has a high stiffness and is not very elastically deformable.

[0160] The strap is, for example, made of coated fabric, or of a polymer material such as polyester or aramid, or even of leather.

[0161] The invention has many advantages.

[0162] Firstly, the platform has a reduced footprint, both in the deployed position for use and in the folded position for storage or transport.

[0163] In the folded position, the side barriers are arranged approximately parallel to the ascent plane, in a compact position for storing or transporting the platform.

[0164] In the open position of the workstation, the bar 29 is advantageously held on the side of the lifting plane, in a substantially vertical position, in a holding housing, and does not hinder access to the workstation.

[0165] The opening of the workstation, by operating the bar 29, can be carried out using just one hand, this operation being possible when the side barrier of the platform is attached to a wall.

[0166] Second, the risk of accidents is reduced.

[0167] When the bar 29 is in the vertical storage position, the risks of snagging, for example with an item of clothing, are reduced, and the bar 29 does not hinder access to the workstation and the raising / lowering of the first leg.

[0168] The upward pivoting travel of the bar is reduced, and the user cannot exit the workstation by simply moving the bar upwards. The user must move the bar downwards to be able to freely exit the workstation.

[0169] When the bar 29 is operated to open the workstation, the upward travel of the bar is limited, and only a downward travel is possible, the risks for the user being thus limited, even if the bar pivots under its own weight.

[0170] The risks of accidental exit of the bar 29 from its closed position are reduced. The release of the bar 29 requires the application of an upward vertical force.

[0171] Thirdly, the risks of damage to the guardrail are reduced. Storing the bar in its housing, in a vertical position, on the side of the climbing surface, limits the risks of accidental exit or accidental disassembly of the bar, when the user is climbing or descending or when the user is moving around the platform.

[0172] Storing the strap on the side of the climbing platform also limits the risk of damage or accidents when the user is climbing or descending, or when the user is moving around the platform.

Claims

Claims 1. Platform (1) for working at height comprising: a front plane comprising a pair of side members (4, 5) and at least one step (6, 7) connecting these side members (4, 5), a guardrail mounted on the front plane, this guardrail comprising a pair of side barriers, each mounted articulated on a side member (4, 5) between a deployed position in which each barrier extends substantially perpendicular to the front plane, and a folded position, a rear plane mounted articulated to the front plane, a rigid bar (29) mounted articulated to a first side barrier, between a deployed position substantially horizontal and a storage position, the rigid bar (29) forming a rail for the guardrail, characterized in that means limit the travel of the rigid bar (29) between its deployed position and an extreme position raised relative to the deployed position.

2. Platform (1) for working at height according to claim 1, characterized in that the travel of the rigid bar (29) between its deployed position and the extreme position raised relative to the deployed position is less than 30°, advantageously less than 20°.

3. Platform (1) for working at height according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, when the two side barriers are in the deployed position, the rigid bar (29) is supported and held in its deployed position on the second side barrier, by holding means.

4. Platform (1) for working at height according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that in the storage position, the rigid bar (29) is substantially vertical and arranged on the side of the front plane forming the climbing plane.

5. Platform (1) for working at height according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises a strap (28) provided with means (60) for mounting to the side barriers.

6. Platform (1) for working at height according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the side barriers are formed from a curved tube.

7. Platform (1) for working at height according to claim 6, characterized in that it comprises a first part (42) attached to a curved tube forming a first lateral barrier, this first part (42) carrying an axis (41) for the articulation of the rigid bar (29).

8. Platform (1) for working at height according to claim 7, characterized in that the first part (42) comprises a housing (47) for holding by friction or snap-fastening the rigid bar (29) in the storage position.

9. Platform (1) for working at height according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that it comprises a second part (43) attached to a curved tube forming the second lateral barrier, this second attached part (43) carrying means for holding the rigid bar (29) in the deployed position.

10. Platform (1) for working at height according to any one of the preceding claims, the platform being a PIR individual rolling platform, or a lightweight individual rolling platform.

Images