DEVICE FOR DETECTING A THRESHOLD SPEED OF A LOCKING DEVICE, LOCKING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LOCKING A WIRED ELEMENT

Abstract

A device for detecting a threshold speed of a locking device, a locking device, and a method for locking a wired element. A detection device comprises a roller (2) rotating about an axis. A pin (4) is fixed to the roller (2). The pin (4) is designed to contact a locking mechanism (5). The pin (4) is mounted to move relative to the axis to contact or not contact the locking mechanism (5). The rotation of the roller (2) generates a centrifugal force designed to bring the pin closer to the locking mechanism (5). When the rotational speed of the roller (2) reaches a threshold value, the pin contacts the locking mechanism to lock the roller (2). The pin (4) has a weight (4b) and a pawl (4c) separated by a plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation of the roller (2). The plane is offset from the contact surface between the pin and the blocker. The weight (4b) is further from the axis than the area in contact with the blocker in a radial direction.

Description

Title of the invention: DEVICE FOR DETECTING A THRESHOLD SPEED OF A LOCKING DEVICE, LOCKING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LOCKING AN ELEMENT WIRED Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a device for detecting a threshold speed of a rope locking device, a fall arrest device and a method for locking a rope. Prior art

[0002] When working at height, to ensure the safety of the person working, it is necessary to connect them to a rope that acts as a lifeline. The person is attached to a fall arrest device that runs along the lifeline. The fall arrest device has a rotating roller that is configured to turn in one direction or another depending on whether the person is going up or down.

[0003] During a fall, the vertical speed of the fall arrest device along the lifeline reaches a threshold value, which corresponds to a threshold rotation speed of a roller relative to a plate of the fall arrest device. When the threshold rotation speed is reached, the roller locks, which has the effect of locking the fall arrest device on the lifeline. The person attached to the fall arrest device is then stopped in their fall.

[0004] To form an effective and user-friendly fall arrest device, it is important that the fall arrest device can faithfully follow the progress of the rope access technician, i.e. that the fall arrest device moves with low friction in one direction or the other. It is also important that the fall arrest device effectively detects the speed of movement of the fall arrest device along the lifeline, which corresponds to significant contact between the roller and the lifeline and therefore to significant friction. A fall arrest device configuration is marketed by the applicant under the name “AS AP”.

[0005] A fall arrest device configuration is disclosed in US 2014 / 0196985 as well as in US 2014 / 0196989.

[0006] Document US 2014 / 0262611 discloses a configuration where a roller rotates until it reaches a threshold rotational speed. Once the threshold rotational speed is reached, the roller locks. The roller is mounted to rotate around a rotation shaft. Two pins are mounted movably inside the roller and are each actuated by a spring which is configured to return them towards the rotation axis. As the roller's rotation speed increases, centrifugal force tends to push the pins outward so that they come into contact with the blockers. Once the pins are in contact with the blockers, the roller can no longer rotate. Each of the pins has a contact surface with the blocker that extends over the entire height of the pin and the entire height of the blocker. The blocker and the pin are arranged outside the roller, which corresponds to a relatively bulky device.

[0007] To obtain an effective fall arrest device, it is necessary to have good detection of the rotation speed of the roller so as to effectively detect that the threshold speed has been reached. This naturally results in the formation of a large fall arrest device in order to have good responsiveness during speed variations. Subject of the invention

[0008] An object of the invention is to provide a detection device configured to detect the rotation speed of a roller of a rope locking device which presents a better compromise between the size of the detection device and the sensitivity of the speed detection.

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a detection device configured to detect the rotation speed of a roller of a locking device of a wire element comprising: - a roller rotatably mounted around a first rotation shaft, the first rotation shaft defining a first axis of rotation for the roller, the first rotation shaft being fixed to a body; - a blocker fixed to the body and having a first contact surface; - at least one pin fixed to the roller so as to rotate around the first axis of rotation between the first axis of rotation and the blocker, the at least one pin having a second contact surface, the at least one pin being mounted so as to be movable relative to the first axis of rotation between a first pin position where the second contact surface is not intended to obstruct the rotation of the at least one pin and a second pin position where the second contact surface is intended to come into contact with the first contact surface, the rotation of the roller generating a centrifugal force intended to move the second contact surface away from the first axis of rotation and move the pin towards the second pin position so that the second contact surface is in contact with the first contact surface when the rotation speed of the roller reaches a threshold rotation speed,the blocker blocking a direction of rotation of the roller when the first contact surface is in contact with the second contact surface.

[0010] The detection device is remarkable in that the pin has a weight portion and a ratchet element arranged one after the other in a direction parallel to the first axis of rotation, the ratchet element comprising the second contact surface; in that, in the second pawn position, the weight portion is devoid of contact with the blocker; and in that a distal portion of the weight portion is further from the first axis of rotation than a distal portion of the second contact surface in an observation along the first axis of rotation.

[0011] Advantageously, in the first pin position, a radial distance between the first axis of rotation and the distal part of the weight portion is greater than a radial distance between the first axis of rotation and a proximal part of the first locking zone.

[0012] In a particular configuration, the roller is hollow and the blocker is arranged inside the roller.

[0013] In an advantageous development, the pin is mounted to be rotatable about a second rotation shaft between the first pin position and the second pin position, the second rotation shaft being mounted to be rotatable about the first rotation shaft inside the roller.

[0014] Preferably, the pin is mounted to be movable in rotation about a second rotation shaft between the first pin position and the second pin position. A stop is fixedly mounted on the roller, the stop being in contact with the ratchet element when the pin is in the second pin position to reduce the mechanical stress on the second rotation shaft.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the ratchet element and the second rotation shaft define a functional clearance at least along an arc of a circle of which the first axis of rotation is the center to reduce the mechanical stress on the second rotation shaft.

[0016] In an advantageous development, the body comprises a first flange and a second flange, the first rotation shaft being fixed to the first flange and to the second flange, the roller being arranged between the first flange and the second flange. The blocker is fixedly mounted on the second flange.

[0017] Preferably, the detection device comprises: - a stud protruding from the pin in a direction parallel to the first axis of rotation; - a button fixed to the body and mounted to move between a first button position and a second button position, the button having a slide.

[0018] In the first button position, the slide is arranged so as not to form an obstacle to the rotation of the stud around the first axis of rotation.

[0019] In the second button position, during one revolution of the roller, the stud slides along the slide moving the pin at least to a pin position where the distance between the first axis of rotation and the distal part of the second contact zone is greater than the distance between the first axis of rotation and the proximal part of the first contact zone.

[0020] In another advantageous development, in the second pawn position and in the second button position, the stud is not in contact with the slide.

[0021] Preferably, the weight portion is arranged inside the roller.

[0022] Advantageously, the weight portion is fixedly mounted relative to the second contact surface.

[0023] The invention also relates to a device for locking a wire element comprising a detection device according to any one of the preceding configurations. Such a locking device is more compact than the configurations of the prior art without degrading the effectiveness in detecting the threshold rotation speed for locking the roller.

[0024] The invention also relates to a method for locking a wire element which makes it possible to efficiently and repeatably detect the threshold rotation speed in order to be able to lock the roller.

[0025] This result is achieved by means of a method of blocking a rope comprising the following steps: - provide a locking device according to the previous configuration and a wire element mounted in the locking device in contact with the roller; - circulating the wire element inside the locking device so as to rotate the roller up to a threshold rotation speed to lock the roller and lock the wire element inside the locking device. Summary description of the drawings

[0026] Other advantages and characteristics will emerge more clearly from the following description of particular embodiments and implementations of the invention given as non-limiting examples and represented in the appended drawings, in which:

[0027] [Fig-1]: [Fig.l] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a device for rope lock;

[0028] [Fig.2]: [Fig.2] schematically illustrates a cross-sectional view of a rope locking device;

[0029] [Fig.3]: [Fig.3] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a device for speed detection of a rope locking device;

[0030] [Fig.4]: [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a device for speed detection of a rope locking device with a pin in a position which allows rotation of the roller;

[0031] [Fig.5]: [Fig.5] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a device for speed detection of a rope locking device with a pin in a position that allows rotation of the roller and with the blocker installed;

[0032] [Fig.6]: [Fig.6] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a speed detection device of a rope blocking device in a pin position which blocks the rotation of the roller and with the blocker installed;

[0033] [Fig.7]: [Fig.7] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a device for speed detection of a rope locking device with a pin in a position that blocks the rotation of the roller and without the blocker installed;

[0034] [Fig.8]: [Fig.8] schematically illustrates a perspective view of a cross-section of a speed detection device of a rope locking device in a pin position that blocks the rotation of the roller with the blocker installed and a roller locking knob in the position that allows the rotation of the roller with a cross-sectional view of the plates, the first rotation shaft and a locking knob;

[0035] [Fig.9]: [Fig.9] schematically illustrates a top view of a device for speed detection of a rope locking device with a slide in a position which allows rotation of the roller;

[0036] [Fig. 10]: [Fig. 10] schematically illustrates a top view of a speed detection device of a rope locking device with a slide in a position which is intended to cause the rotation of the roller to be blocked;

[0037] [Fig.11]: [Fig.11] schematically illustrates a top view of a speed detection device of a rope locking device with a slide in a position which is intended to block the rotation of the roller and the stud which slides along the slide;

[0038] [Fig. 12]: [Fig. 12] schematically illustrates a top view of a speed detection device of a rope locking device with a slide in a position which is intended to block the rotation of the roller and the slide which pushes the pin into the locking position;

[0039] [Fig. 13]: [Fig. 13] schematically illustrates a top view of another embodiment of a speed detection device of a rope locking device with the pin in the first pin position;

[0040] [Fig. 14]: [Fig. 14] schematically illustrates a top view of another embodiment of a speed detection device of a rope locking device with the pin in the second pin position. Description of the embodiments

[0041] Figures 1 to 14 illustrate different views of a locking device 1 for a wire element, preferably a rope. The locking device 1 is preferably a fall arrest device. The rope locking device comprises a roller 2 mounted to rotate in at least a first direction of rotation around a first rotation shaft 3. The first rotation shaft 3 defines a first axis of rotation for the roller 2. The locking device 1 defines a path intended for the passage of a rope. The path defines a through passage, one wall of which is formed by the roller 2 so that the sliding of the rope in the locking device causes the rotation of the roller 2.

[0042] The rope locking device is configured to block the rotation of the roller 2 in at least the first direction of rotation when the rotation speed of the roller 2 about the first axis of rotation reaches a threshold value. Preferably, the roller 2 is configured to rotate freely in both directions of rotation at least when the rotation speed is lower than the threshold value.

[0043] The rope locking device comprises a detection device configured to detect the rotation speed of the roller 2 in a direction of rotation. The detection device is configured to allow the rotation of the roller 2 when the rotation speed in the first direction of rotation is lower than the threshold speed and to prevent the rotation of the roller 2 when the rotation speed of the roller 2 in the first direction of rotation reaches the threshold speed. When the detection device detects that the rotation speed in the first direction of rotation corresponds to the threshold speed, the roller 2 locks, which has the effect of locking any rope present in the rope locking device.

[0044] The detection device comprises the roller 2 and the first rotation shaft 3 which defines the first axis of rotation of the roller 2. The roller 2 is fixed to the first rotation shaft 3. The first rotation shaft 3 passes through the roller 2 or is inserted into the roller 2 so that the roller 2 rotates around the first rotation shaft 3. The first rotation shaft 3 is fixed to a body.

[0045] The detection device comprises at least one pin 4 which is fixed to the roller 2. When the roller 2 rotates about the first axis of rotation AA, the pin 4 rotates about the first axis of rotation. The pin 4 is also mounted to move relative to the first axis of rotation so as to be able to move closer to or further away from the first axis of rotation AA. Preferably, the detection device comprises one, two, three or four pins 4. Advantageously, the pins 4 work independently of each other. In the illustrated embodiment, only one pin 4 is used.

[0046] The detection device comprises a blocker 5. The blocker 5 is fixedly mounted on a body. The blocker 5 has a first contact surface 5a and the at least one pin 4 has a second contact surface 4a intended to come into contact with the first contact surface 5a to block the rotation of the roller 2. Each pin 4 is mounted to move so that the first contact surface 5a moves closer or further away. of the second contact surface 4a. The pin 4 moves in a plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation AA. The first contact surface 5a and the second contact surface 4a are crossed by the same plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation AA.

[0047] The center of gravity of the pin 4 is offset from the first axis of rotation AA so that the rotation of the roller 2 about the first axis of rotation AA causes the rotation of the pin 4 about the first axis of rotation AA and the generation of a centrifugal force which tends to move the second contact surface 4a away from the first axis of rotation. The greater the rotation speed of the roller 2 about the first axis of rotation AA, the greater the rotation speed of the at least one pin 4 and the further the second contact surface 4a moves away from the first axis of rotation AA so that the second contact surface 4a approaches the first contact surface 5a.

[0048] The at least one pin 4 is mounted to move relative to the first axis of rotation AA between a first position and a second position.

[0049] The blocker 5 is configured to prevent the rotation of the roller 2 around the first axis of rotation in the first direction of rotation when the first contact surface 5a is in contact with the second contact surface 4a. When the rotation speed of the roller 2 reaches a threshold value, the force generated on the at least one pin 4 is such that the second contact surface 4a comes into contact with the first contact surface 5a, which blocks the rotation of the at least one pin 4 and therefore blocks the rotation of the roller 2 at least in the first direction of rotation. When the pin 4 is in contact with the blocker 5, the blocker 5 prevents the rotation of the roller 2 in the first direction of rotation. When the pin 4 is in the second pin position, it is preferable for the pin 4 to be in contact with the internal side wall of the roller 2.In an advantageous embodiment, the weight portion 4b and the ratchet element 4c are fixedly mounted to each other and they advantageously form part of a monolithic pin.

[0050] In the first pin position illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the second contact surface 4a of the at least one pin 4 is not in contact with the first contact surface 5a of the blocker 5. In other words, a first distance between the first axis of rotation AA and a distal portion of the second contact zone 4a is less than a second distance between the first axis of rotation AA and a proximal portion of the first contact zone 5a. In the second pin position illustrated in Figures 6 to 8, the second contact surface 4a of the at least one pin 4 is in contact with the first contact surface 5a of the blocker 5. In other words, the first distance is greater than the second distance.

[0051] The detection device defines an annular volume which is arranged between the first axis of rotation AA and the blocker 5. As long as the pin is inside the volume annular, the pin 4 is able to rotate. When the pin 4 protrudes from the annular volume, the rotation of the pin 4 will result in the first contact surface 4a coming into contact with the second contact surface 4a, which will result in the blocking of the roller 2.

[0052] In the first pin position illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the rotation speed of the roller 2 is such that the blocker 5 does not oppose the rotation of the roller 2 in the first direction of rotation. In the second pin position illustrated in Figures 6 to 8, the rotation speed of the roller 2 has reached the threshold speed and the pin 4 comes to bear against the blocker 5 to prevent the rotation of the roller 2 in the first direction of rotation.

[0053] To obtain effective locking of the roller 2, it is important that the area of ​​the contact zone between the pin 4 and the blocker 5 is greater than a value below which the risks of slippage may appear, which prevents good locking. It is also important that below the threshold rotation speed, the roller 2 and the pin 4 can rotate around the first axis of rotation AA without the pin 4 coming into contact with the blocker 5. It is therefore important that there is a significant spacing between the pin 4 and the blocker 5 when the pin 4 and the blocker 5 are arranged radially opposite each other and the roller 2 is stationary or at low speed.

[0054] It is particularly advantageous for the second contact surface 4a of the pin 4 to be biased by a spring in the direction of the first axis of rotation. The value of the spacing as well as the stiffness of the spring make it possible to define the value of the centrifugal force which causes the movement of the pin 4 such that the pin 4 comes to bear on the blocker 5 and therefore this defines the value of the threshold speed.

[0055] Advantageously, the detection device has a spring which is configured to bias the at least one pin 4 so that the second contact surface 4a moves away from the first contact surface 5a. When the rotation speed of the roller 2 reaches the threshold value, the centrifugal force applied to the pin 4 is sufficiently large to oppose the force generated by the spring, which allows the first contact surface 5a to come into contact with the second contact surface 4a and the roller 2 to be blocked. The spring opposes the centrifugal force applied to the pin 4, i.e. applies a force directed towards the axis of rotation AA. The spring is connected on the one hand to the pin 4 and on the other hand to the roller 2. It is also possible to connect the spring to the pin 4 and to the first rotation shaft 3.In the embodiment illustrated in the various figures, the spring is installed in a cavity formed in the pin 4, the spring being installed between the pin 4 and the bottom of the roller 2.

[0056] In order to reduce the size of the detection device, the distance between the pin 4 and the first axis of rotation is reduced, which has the effect of reducing the force centrifugal force applied to pin 4. This has the consequence of less well defining the threshold rotation speed which causes the blocking of roller 2. When pin 4 is brought closer to the first axis of rotation AA this also has the effect of reducing the volume of pin 4 and therefore its mass. Here again, this modification leads to a reduction in the centrifugal force and therefore a reduction in the sensitivity of the detection device with respect to the rotation speed of roller 2. When the sensitivity of the detection system decreases, the blocking of roller 2 takes place over a speed range which has a wider distribution around the threshold speed.

[0057] To increase the detection sensitivity of the detection device, it is necessary to increase the mass of the pin 4 and / or the distance between the first axis of rotation and the center of gravity of the pin 4. These two criteria do not lead to a reduction in the size of the detection device.

[0058] To increase the sensitivity of detection of the rotation speed of the roller 2, it is advantageous to increase the distance between the center of gravity of the pin 4 and the first axis of rotation AA. To obtain such a result without increasing the size of the pin and therefore without increasing the size of the detection system, it is particularly advantageous to form a stepped pin 4, that is to say a pin which has a weight portion 4b and a pawl element 4c arranged at two different levels along the first axis of rotation AA of the roller.

[0059] The pawl element 4c has the second contact surface 4a and the weight portion 4b is devoid of the second contact surface 4a. The weight portion 4b is not intended to come into contact with the blocker 5 to block the rotation of the roller 2. The weight portion 4b and the pawl element 4c do not have the same shape when observed in a direction parallel to the first axis of rotation AA. The weight portion 4b and the pawl element 4c are arranged one after the other in a direction parallel to the first axis of rotation AA or substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation AA.

[0060] The distal part of the weight portion 4b is further from the first axis of rotation AA than the distal part of the second contact surface 4a and more generally than the distal part of the pawl element 4c in a radial direction which extends from the first axis of rotation AA. The center of gravity of the weight portion 4b is further from the first axis of rotation than the center of gravity of the pawl element 4c. This makes it possible to have an increase in the centrifugal force in comparison with a pin of constant or substantially constant section over the entire height of the pin 4 (in the direction AA).

[0061] Preferably, the weight portion 4b has a part which is opposite the ratchet element 4c in an observation along the first axis of rotation AA, it is advantageous to have a opposite equal to at least 50% of the surface of the element pawl 4c, preferably at least 75%. Preferably, the pawl element 4c is entirely opposite the weight portion 4b in an observation along the first axis of rotation AA.

[0062] Preferably, in an observation along the first axis of rotation AA, the weight portion 4b has a surface area which is at least 30% greater than the surface area of ​​the pawl element 4c. It is advantageous for the pawl element 4c and the weight portion 4b to be in the form of two arcs of rings. It is preferable for the weight portion 4b to protrude from one or both ends of the pawl element 4c along an arc of a circle whose center corresponds to the first axis of rotation AA. This makes it possible to increase the mass of the pin without increasing the size of the pawl element 4c. This configuration makes it possible to move the center of gravity away compared to a pin 4 comprising only the pawl element 4c.The weight portion 4b belonging to a plane distant from the first locking surface 5a, it is freed from the obligations with regard to the spacing between the first locking surface 5a and the second locking surface 4a when the roller 2 must rotate or the minimum contact area between the pawl element 4c and the blocker 5 when the roller 2 must be locked.

[0063] Compared to the configuration disclosed in document US 2014 / 0262611 where the pin is of identical shape over the entire height of the pin, the weight portion 4b makes it possible to move the center of gravity away and therefore to increase the centrifugal force for a given threshold rotation speed.

[0064] The stepped configuration of the pin 4 with a weight part 4b which is offset relative to the pawl element 4c makes it possible to improve the compromise between centrifugal force generated and size.

[0065] When the pin 4 is in the second position, that is to say the position capable of blocking the roller 2, the weight portion 4b is at a distance from the first axis of rotation AA which is greater than the distance which separates the first axis of rotation AA and the contact zone between the pin 4 and the blocker 5.

[0066] Preferably, when the pin 4 is in the second position with the pawl element 4c resting on the blocker 5, it is advantageous for the weight portion 4b to extend beyond the pawl element 4c over a distance which is equal to at least 10% of the radius between the first axis of rotation AA and the distal part of the contact zone between the blocker 5 and the pawl element 4c. Even more preferably, the weight portion 4b extends beyond the pawl element 4c over a distance which is equal to at least 20%.

[0067] In order to improve compactness, it is particularly advantageous to use a roller 2 which is hollow and to arrange the pin 4 inside the roller 2. It is possible to form a detection device which better detects the threshold speed without modifying the diameter of the roller 2. The blocker 5 is at least partly arranged inside the roller 2 which makes it possible to form a particularly compact detection device without degrading the sensitivity of detection of the rotation speed of the roller 2. It is advantageous for the weight part 4b and / or the ratchet element 4c to be located inside the hollow of the roller 2.

[0068] When the blocker 5 is installed in the internal volume of the roller 2 which is hollow 2, the blocker 5 does not form an obstacle over the entire height of the internal volume of the roller. The height is the dimension parallel to the first axis of rotation AA. The blocker 5 leaves a space in the roller 2 so as to allow the rotation of the weight portion 4b above or below the blocker 5. In other words, in the first pin position, a radial distance between the first axis of rotation AA and the distal portion of the weight portion 4b is greater than a radial distance between the first axis of rotation AA and a proximal portion of the first blocking zone 5a. The weight portion 4b can then rotate around the first axis of rotation AA and pass above or below the blocker 5 in an observation direction parallel to the first axis of rotation AA when the roller 2 rotates as long as the threshold speed is not reached.Once the threshold speed is reached, the ratchet element 4c comes to bear on the blocker 5 which prevents the rotation of the weight portion 4b and the rotation of the roller 2 in the first direction of rotation AA.

[0069] In a particular embodiment illustrated in [Fig.7], when the first contact surface 5a is in contact with the second contact surface 4a, the weight portion 4b comes into contact with the internal lateral wall 2a of the roller 2. It is advantageous that when the weight portion 4b comes into contact with the internal lateral wall 2a of the roller 2, the pawl element 4c is included in a circle whose radius is equal to 2 / 3 of the radius defined by the internal lateral wall 2a of the roller 2 and the first axis of rotation.

[0070] In a particularly advantageous manner, the weight portion 4b and the ratchet element 4c are fixedly mounted to each other.

[0071] In a particular embodiment, when the first contact surface 5a is not in contact with the second contact surface 4a, the distance between the first axis of rotation AA and the distal part of the weight portion 4b is greater than or equal to the distance between the first axis of rotation AA and the proximal part of the first contact surface 5a. This configuration makes it possible to increase the effect of the centrifugal force without degrading the compactness of the detection device.

[0072] Preferably, in the first pin position, the proximal part of the ratchet element 4c is against the side wall of the roller 2 defining a passage hole for the first rotation shaft 3. It is then advantageous for the distance between the distal part of the ratchet element 4c and the first axis of rotation AA to be less equal to 2 / 3 of the radius between the first axis of rotation AA and the distal part of the weight portion 4b. This configuration makes it possible to improve the ratio between the speed detection sensitivity and the compactness of the detection device.

[0073] The distal portion of the ratchet element 4c is the portion of the ratchet element 4c furthest from the first axis of rotation. The distal portion of the weight portion 4b is the portion of the weight portion 4b furthest from the first axis of rotation. Conversely, the proximal portions are the portions closest to the first axis of rotation AA. Preferably, the comparison of the distances between the distal portions of the ratchet element 4c and the weight portion 4b are carried out for the same radius. The same applies to the comparison between the proximal portions or between the proximal and distal portions.

[0074] In a particularly advantageous manner, in an observation along the first axis of rotation AA, the weight portion 4b extends radially beyond the distal part of the pawl element 4c and it also extends circumferentially as illustrated in the various figures. Preferably, the weight portion 4b extends from each of the two circumferential ends of the pawl element 4c.

[0075] In an observation along the first axis of rotation, it is noted that the pawl element 4c is located between the projecting part of the weight portion 4b and the first axis of rotation AA.

[0076] Preferably, the weight portion 4b represents at least 20% of the mass of the pin 4. Even more preferably, the weight portion represents at least 33% of the mass of the pin 4. The weight portion 4b and the pawl element 4c are separated by a plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation AA and which passes through the end of the first contact zone 5a and the second contact zone 4a. The mass of the weight portion corresponds to the mass of the pin located on the side of the plane containing the weight portion while the mass of the pawl element 4c corresponds to the mass of the rest of the pin 4 and which is located on the other side of the plane.

[0077] Preferably illustrated in Figures 9 to 13, in the second pin position, that is to say in the position capable of blocking the roller 2, it is advantageous for the radius between the first axis of rotation AA and the distal part of the first contact zone 5a to be less than or equal to 75% of the radius between the first axis of rotation and the distal part of the weight portion 4b. Advantageously, the radius between the first axis of rotation and the first contact zone 5b is less than or equal to 75% of the radius of the internal lateral wall 2a of the roller 2 when the roller 2 is hollow and receives the blocker 5 as well as the pin 4.

[0078] The use of a hollow roller 2 is particularly advantageous because it makes it possible to improve the compactness of the structure. Preferably, a plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation AA passes through the ratchet element 4c, the blocker 5 and the groove 2b of the roller 2 which must receive the rope.

[0079] Improving the compactness of the detection device without degrading the sensitivity of detecting the rotational speed of the roller 2 makes it possible to reduce the diameter of the roller 2. By reducing the diameter of the roller 2, for a given linear rope speed in the locking device, the rotational speed of the roller 2 and therefore the effect on the centrifugal force are increased. In other words, the decomposition of the pin 4 into a weight portion 4b and a pawl element 4c which are arranged one after the other in a direction parallel to the first axis of rotation makes it possible to reduce the diameter of the roller 2 without reducing the detection sensitivity because it becomes possible to increase the rotational speed of the roller 2 for a given linear rope speed.

[0080] This configuration is particularly advantageous because, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 14, the device 1 for detecting the rotation speed of the roller 2 is entirely or almost entirely installed inside the roller 2.

[0081] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 and 8 to 14, the roller 2 is arranged between a first plate 6 and a second plate 7 of the body. The first rotation shaft 3 is fixed to the first plate 6 and to the second plate 7. The roller 2 rotates around the first rotation shaft 3 in the body and more precisely between the plates 6 and 7 which are fixed. The roller 2 is a blind part with the exception of the hole for the passage of the first rotation shaft 3. The pin 4 is fixed to the roller 2 to follow the rotation of the roller 2 around the first axis of rotation AA. It is advantageous for the pin 4 to be mounted movable in rotation between the first position and the second position, preferably around a second rotation shaft 8. Preferably, the second rotation shaft 8 is fixed to the roller 2 so that the second rotation shaft 8 rotates around the first rotation shaft 3.The pin 4 is attached to the second rotation shaft 8 so that the pin 4 rotates around the first rotation shaft 3 and rotates around the second rotation shaft 8.

[0082] Advantageously, in the second pin position, the pin 4 comes to bear on a stop 9 of the roller 2 which is offset from the second rotation shaft 8. The pin 4 has a third contact zone 4d which comes to bear on a fourth contact zone 9a formed by the stop 9 when the pin is in the second pin position, this makes it possible to reduce the mechanical stress on the second rotation shaft 8. In the second pin position, the stop 9 of the roller 2 exerts a force on the pin 4 and the pin 4 exerts a force on the blocker 5 to block the rotation of the roller 4 in the first direction of rotation without excessively stressing the second rotation shaft 8. The blocking of the stop 9 causes the blocking of the roller 2. The stop 9 of the roller 2 is fixedly mounted relative to the roller 2. To achieve the blocking of the roller 2, the ratchet element 4c is on the one hand supported against the stop 9 and on the other hand supported against the blocker 5. In the position blocking the rotation of the roller 2, the ratchet element 4c is located between the stop 9 and the blocker 5. This configuration makes it possible to reduce the forces applied to the second rotation shaft 8. Preferably, when the third contact zone 4d and the fourth contact zone are flat surfaces, they form a first plane which includes the first axis of rotation, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 to 14. The support is tangential which limits the stress on the second rotation shaft. It is also possible to have textured contact zones, for example in notched or sawtooth shapes to reduce or avoid the appearance of a radially extending force which stresses the second rotation shaft 8.

[0083] When a stop 9 is used, it is advantageous for the pin 4, more preferably the ratchet element 4c, and the second rotation shaft 8 to define a functional clearance in a direction perpendicular to the axis AA representing the axis of rotation of the roller 2. Preferably, the functional clearance extends at least along an arc of a circle whose radius extends from the axis of rotation AA of the roller 2 and which passes through the second rotation shaft 8. Advantageously, the arc of a circle has the axis of rotation AA as its center. The introduction of a functional clearance is particularly advantageous so as not to mechanically stress the second rotation shaft 8 when the pin 4 is supported on the one hand against the blocker 5 and on the other hand against the stop 9.

[0084] In order not to put too much stress on the second rotation shaft 8, it is preferable that in the second pin position, the pin 4 rests against the peripheral side wall of the roller 2 as illustrated in Figures 12 and 14.

[0085] It is also advantageous that, in the second pin position, the first contact area 5a and the second contact area 4a define a second plane parallel to the first axis of rotation AA. The first plane is intersecting with the second plane, the contact between the third contact area 4d and the fourth contact area 9a being separated from the intersection between the first plane and the second plane by the first axis of rotation AA in an observation along the first axis of rotation AA.

[0086] The use of a stop 9 is particularly advantageous in association with a stepped pin 4, but it is also possible to have a stop 9 which blocks the rotation of a roller 2 with a pin according to one of the configurations of the prior art, in particular a configuration where the section of the pin 4 is constant or substantially constant over the entire height of the pin. The use of the stop which is located in an arc of a circle which does not pass

[0087] In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 12, the third contact zone 4d is predominantly or exclusively formed by the ratchet element 4c. The third contact zone 4d does not extend beyond the radius defined by the distal portion between the ratchet element 4c and the axis of rotation of the roller 2. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 13 and 14, the third contact zone 4d is formed in the element pawl 4c as well as in the weight portion 4b. It is advantageous for the third contact zone 4d to be formed by a face of the weight portion and preferably at a greater distance than the contact zone between the stop and the pawl element 4c.

[0088] It is advantageous for the second shaft 8 to be arranged at a radius from the first axis of rotation AA which is less than the radius of the second contact surface 4a when the pin 4 is in the second pin position.

[0089] Preferably, the first plate 6 and the second plate 7 of the body are fixed to each other by means of a third rotation shaft 10 which is also fixed to a support 11. As illustrated in [Fig.2], the third rotation shaft 10 and the first rotation shaft 3 are fixed to each other so as to form a single-piece assembly with the first plate 6 and the second plate 7. The single-piece assembly is mounted to move relative to the support 11 and mounted to rotate around the third rotation shaft 10. The first rotation shaft 3 is mounted to pivot around the third rotation shaft 10. The single-piece assembly pivots relative to the support 11 so as to define an open position which allows the introduction or removal of a rope in the support 11 of the rope locking device, here of the fall arrest device.Preferably, the support 11 has a U-shaped area 12 which defines a ring intended to receive a rope. The ring opens or closes by means of the single-piece assembly which is movable and in particular by means of the roller 2 which moves relative to the support 11.

[0090] Preferably, the one-piece assembly is biased by means of a second spring 13 so that the one-piece assembly is by default, that is to say in the absence of external bias, in the position which keeps the rope inside the fall arrest device and more precisely inside the U-shaped zone 12. The spring biases the roller towards the U-shaped zone which is intended to press the rope against the U-shaped zone to have significant contact between the rope and the roller 2 when the locking device moves relative to the rope.

[0091] Preferably, the roller 2 has a groove 2b which is textured, that is to say a non-smooth groove. The groove 2b may be provided with pins 2c or grooves so as to increase the friction between the roller 2 and the rope.

[0092] Advantageously, the second plate 7 defines the blocker 5 and is inserted into the hollow of the roller 2. The second plate 7 makes it possible to block the rotation of the roller 2. The fixing of the second plate 7 with the first plate 6 by means of the first rotation shaft 3 and the third rotation shaft 10 makes it possible to form a particularly effective blocker 5. In the advantageous embodiment illustrated in Figures 8 and 14, the first plate 6 is fixed to the second plate 7 by means of a rod 14.

[0093] It is particularly advantageous to provide that the second plate 7 closes the cavity defined in the roller 2. It is preferable that the speed detection device is provided with a seal 15 of annular section which connects the roller 2 and the second plate 7. It is advantageous that the internal side wall 2a of the roller 2 has a groove 16 which extends circularly. The seal 15 is inserted into the groove 16 so as to provide sealing. The seal 15 which connects the second plate 7 with the roller 2 in association with a roller 2 which is blind makes it possible to form a substantially sealed space which makes it possible to improve the service life of the detection device.

[0094] In a particular embodiment, a button 17 is fixed to the body and preferably to the second plate 7 and is mounted to be movable relative to the second plate 7. The button 17 is movable between a first button position and a second button position. The button 17 is mounted to be movable relative to the first axis of rotation AA. In the first button position, the button 17 does not interact with the pin 4 which operates as described above. In the second button position, the button 17 causes the roller 2 to be blocked when the roller 2 rotates in the first direction of rotation.

[0095] The pin 4 is provided with a stud 18. It is advantageous for the stud not to be opposite the second locking zone 4a in a plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation AA. The stud 18 can be mounted projecting from the ratchet element 4c or from the weight portion 4b in a direction parallel to the first axis of rotation AA. The stud 18 is preferably fixedly mounted on the pin 4. The stud 18 rotates about the first axis of rotation 3 when the roller 2 rotates about the first axis of rotation 3. The stud 18 moves between a first stud position and a second stud position. The stud 18 rotates about the first axis of rotation AA at a distance from the first axis of rotation AA which is greater than or equal to a first value. The first value corresponds to the minimum distance between the first axis of rotation AA and the pin 18 when the pin 4 is in the first pin position, for example the roller 2 is stationary.When pin 4 is in the second pin position, stud 18 is spaced from the first axis of rotation by a second value greater than the first value. The annular volume has a maximum radius that corresponds to the second value.

[0096] The button 17 defines a slide 19. In the first position of the button 17, the slide 19 is arranged so as not to come into contact with the stud 18, it does not form an obstacle to the rotation of the stud 18. The stud 18 rotates in a plane which is perpendicular to the first axis of rotation AA. In the first position of the button, the slide 19 is arranged outside the plane of rotation of the stud 18 and / or at a distance from the axis of rotation AA which is less than the first value or which is greater than the second value, for example greater than the radius of the roller 2. The slide 19 is arranged outside the positions which the stud 18 can take when the roller rotates.

[0097] In the second position of knob 17, the slide 19 is arranged to form an obstacle to the movement of the stud 18. The slide 19 is located in the plane of rotation of the stud 18, that is to say in a plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation AA and which passes through the stud 18. The slide 19 forms an obstacle which extends from the first value to a third value greater than the first value. During a revolution of roller 2, the stud 18 slides along the slide moving the pin into the second pin position. The third value can be the second value which corresponds to the pin in the second pin position. Alternatively, the third value corresponds to the pin 4 in a position such that the distance between the first axis of rotation AA and the distal part of the second contact zone 4a is greater than the distance between the first axis of rotation AA and the proximal part of the first contact zone 5a.In this configuration, the ratchet element 4 is far enough from the first axis of rotation AA for the ratchet element 4c to come into contact with the blocker 5 which will cause the roller 2 to be blocked.

[0098] Advantageously, when the pin 4 is in the second pin position and the button is in the second button position, the slide 19 is not in contact with the stud 18 so as to prevent the slide 19 and the stud 18 from taking up the locking forces of the roller 2.

[0099] When the roller 2 rotates in the first direction of rotation and the button 19 is in the second button position, the stud 18 comes into contact with the slide 19. The rotation of the roller in the first direction of rotation causes the stud 18 to slide along the slide 19 and the sliding of the stud 18 along the slide causes the ratchet element 4c to move away from the first axis of rotation AA, i.e. to move closer to the position corresponding to the second stud position.

[0100] When the stud 18 is in the first stud position, the pin 4 is in the first pin position. When the stud 18 is in the second stud position, the pin 4 is in the second pin position. The stud 18 is fixedly mounted relative to the second contact zone 4a.

[0101] Advantageously, when the button 17 moves between the first and second button positions, the slide 19 moves only in a plane perpendicular to the first axis of rotation AA. Preferably, the button 17 is mounted to move so as to move closer to or further away from the first rotation shaft 3 between the first button position and the second button position.

[0102] The movement of the pin from the first position to the second position is independent of the rotation speed of the roller 2. The locking of the roller 2 is obtained at the latest when the roller has completed a complete revolution.

[0103] Such a button is particularly advantageous because it is simple to produce while being very effective. Although the button and the stud are presented in association with a stepped pin, it is possible to use another pin configuration. Preferably, the stud 18 is not opposite the second contact zone 4a in a plane which is perpendicular to the first axis of rotation AA.

[0104] In the advantageous embodiments illustrated, when the pin is installed inside the cavity defined by the roller 2, the button 17 passes through the second plate 7 so that the button 17 defines a slide 19 for the stud 18 which is separated from the actuation zone of the button by the second plate 7. The stud 18 slides along the slide 19.

[0105] In the first button position, which corresponds to a first slide position when the rotation speed of the roller 2 is low, the stud 18 rotates around the first rotation axis AA and the stud 18 does not come into contact with the slide 19. As the rotation speed of the roller 2 increases until it reaches the threshold speed, the stud 18 moves from the first stud 18 position to the second stud 18 position without the stud 18 coming into contact with the slide 19. When the rotation speed of the roller 2 reaches the threshold speed, the pin 4 comes into contact with the blocker 5 which blocks the roller 2 without the stud 18 coming into contact with the slide 19.

[0106] In the second position of button 17, which corresponds to a second slide position, the slide 19 intersects the path of the stud 18 when the roller 2 rotates in the first direction of rotation. As the roller 2 rotates about the first axis of rotation, the stud 18 rotates about the first axis of rotation and slides along the slide 19, which causes the stud 18 to move from the first stud position to the second stud position. Once the second stud position is reached, the ratchet element 4c is in contact with the blocker 5, which completes the movement of the pin 14 into the second pin position. The rotation of the roller 2 causes the first contact surface 5a to be in contact with the second contact surface 4a, which has the effect of blocking the roller 2.

[0107] In the second button position, the button 17 defines a slide 19 which intercepts the trajectory of the stud 18 which shifts the stud 18 so as to move the pin 4 into the second pin position and thus achieve the locking of the roller 2 independently of the rotation speed of the roller 2. When the roller 2 completes one revolution or less than one revolution of the roller, the button 17 moves from the first pin position to the second pin position which makes it possible to lock the roller 2 independently of the rotation speed of the roller 2.

[0108] This solution is particularly advantageous because the same pin 4 is used to block roller 2 either when the rotation speed of roller 3 reaches the threshold speed, or when roller 2 makes a turn when button 17 is moved to a position of roller lock 2.

[0109] In a particular embodiment, when the pin 4 comes to bear against the stop 9 of the roller 2, the slide 19 leaves the stud 18 so that the forces applied by the roller 2 against the blocker 5 are not transmitted to the slide 19.

[0110] It is advantageous for the button 17 to be mounted so as to be able to rotate in order to move the slide 19.

[0111] The configuration illustrated in Figures 1 to 14 is advantageous because it has a reduced number of parts which reduces the risk of failure rate.

[0112] The device for detecting the rotation speed of the roller is advantageously part of a fall arrest device. The fall arrest device may comprise a rope installed in the support in contact with the roller 2. The fall arrest device is configured to prevent the fall arrest device from traveling along the rope at a linear speed that is greater than a threshold speed. The rope being in contact with the roller, the running speed between the rope and the fall arrest device corresponds to a rotation speed of the roller. The wire element is circulated in the blocking device, which causes the roller to rotate. When the rotation speed of the roller 2 reaches the threshold rotation speed, the roller 2 is blocked.

[0113] In the illustrated embodiments, the roller 2 is configured to cooperate with a rope of circular section, but it is also possible to provide a roller intended to cooperate with a strap whose section is square or rectangular. The detection device is particularly suitable for use in a device for blocking a wire element, in particular a rope, but it is also possible to provide for its use in an automatic winder.

Claims

Claims

1. Detection device configured to detect the rotation speed of a roller (2) of a locking device (1) of a wire element comprising: - a body (6,7); - a first rotation shaft (3) fixed to the body (6,7) - a roller (2) rotatably mounted around the first rotation shaft (3), the first rotation shaft (3) defining a first axis of rotation (AA) for the roller (2); - a blocker (5) fixed to the body (6,7) and having a first contact surface (5 a); - at least one pin (4) fixed to the roller (2) so as to rotate around the first axis of rotation (AA) in an annular volume arranged between the first axis of rotation (AA) and the blocker (5), the at least one pin (4) having a second contact surface (4a), the at least one pin (4) being mounted movable relative to the first axis of rotation (AA) between a first pin position in which a first distance between the first axis of rotation (AA) and a distal part of the second contact zone (4a) is less than a second distance between the first axis of rotation (AA) and a proximal part of the first contact zone (5a) and a second pin position in which the first distance is greater than the second distance,the rotation of the roller (2) generating a centrifugal force intended to move the second contact surface (4a) away from the first axis of rotation (AA) to increase the value of the first distance so that the second contact surface (4a) is in contact with the first contact surface (5a) when the rotation speed of the roller (2) exceeds a threshold rotation speed, the blocker (5) blocking a direction of rotation of the roller (2) when the first contact surface (5a) is in contact with the second contact surface (4a);, detection device characterized in that the pin (4) has a weight portion (4b) and a ratchet element (4c) arranged one after the other in a direction parallel to the first axis of rotation (AA), the ratchet element (4c) comprising the second contact surface (4a) 9 in that, in the second pawn position, the weight portion (4b) is not in contact with the blocker (5); and in that a distal portion of the weight portion (4b) is further from the first axis of rotation (AA) than a distal portion of the second contact surface (4a) in an observation along the first axis of rotation (AA).

2. A detection device according to claim 1 wherein, in the first pin position, a radial distance between the first axis of rotation (AA) and the distal portion of the weight portion (4b) is greater than a radial distance between the first axis of rotation (AA) and a proximal portion of the first blocking zone (5a).

3. Detection device according to one of claims 1 and 2 in which the roller (2) is hollow and the blocker (5) is arranged inside the roller (2).

4. Detection device according to claim 3 wherein the pin (4) is mounted to rotate about a second rotation shaft (8) between the first pin position and the second pin position, the second rotation shaft (8) being fixed to the roller and mounted to rotate about the first rotation shaft (3) inside the roller (2).

5. Detection device according to any one of claims 3 and 4 in which the weight portion (4b) is arranged inside the roller (2).

6. A detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the pin (4) is mounted to rotate about a second rotation shaft (8) between the first pin position and the second pin position, wherein a stop (9) is fixedly mounted to the roller (2), the stop (9) being in contact with the ratchet element (4c) when the pin is in the second pin position to reduce the mechanical stress on the second rotation shaft (8).

7. Detection device according to claim 6 wherein the ratchet element (4c) and the second rotation shaft (8) define a functional clearance at least along an arc of a circle of which the first axis of rotation (AA) is the center to reduce the mechanical stress on the second rotation shaft (8).

8. Detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 in which the body comprises a first flange (6) and a second flange (7), the first rotation shaft (3) being fixed to the first flange (6) and to the second flange (7), the roller (2) being arranged between the first flange (6) and the second flange (7) and in which the blocker (5) is fixedly mounted on the second flange (7).

9. Detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 comprising: - a stud (18) projecting from the pin (4) in a direction parallel to the first axis of rotation (AA); - a button (17) fixed to the body (6, 7) and mounted to move between a first button position and a second button position, the button (17) having a slide (19); and in which, in the first button position, the slide (19) is arranged so as not to form an obstacle to the rotation of the stud (18) around the first axis of rotation (AA); and wherein, in the second button position, during a revolution of the roller (2), the stud (18) slides along the slide (19) by moving the pin (4) at least to a pin position where the distance between the first axis of rotation (AA) and the distal part of the second contact zone (4a) is greater than the distance between the first axis of rotation (AA) and the proximal part of the first contact zone (5a).

10. Detection device according to claim 9 wherein, in the second pin position and in the second button position, the stud (18) is not in contact with the slide (19).

11. Detection device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 in which the weight portion (4b) is fixedly mounted relative to the second contact surface (4a).

12. Device for blocking a wire element comprising a detection device according to any one of the preceding claims.

13. A method of locking a wire element comprising the following steps - providing a locking device according to claim 12 and a wire element mounted in the locking device in contact with the roller (2); - circulating the wire element inside the locking device so as to rotate the roller (2) up to a threshold rotation speed to lock the roller (2) and lock the wire element inside the locking device (1).

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