method and system for anti-crushing protection of a lifting platform operator and lifting platform comprising this system

Abstract

The method provides anti-crushing protection for an operator (O) on board a work platform (3) of a lifting platform where a control panel (10) allows him to initiate a movement of the work platform. The protection method comprises the implementation of a first rule according to which the movement of the work platform (3) is stopped if the movement is in progress at the time when a detection system detects the occurrence of a risky situation for the operator. The method comprises the implementation of a second rule according to which the movement of the work platform (3) is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of the movement if the risky situation for the operator is detected at the time of initiating the movement at the control panel (10). This differentiated treatment reduces the number of untimely stops of the movements of the work platform. Figure for abstract: Fig. 5

Description

Title of the invention: method and system for anti-crushing protection of a lifting platform operator and lifting platform comprising this system

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of mobile personnel elevating platforms (also referred to by the acronym MEWP) also commonly called lifting cradles. More particularly, the invention proposes a method and a system for anti-crushing protection of an operator on board a work platform of an elevating cradle, as well as an elevating cradle comprising this protection system.

[0002] Lifting platforms are machines designed to allow one or more people to work at height. To this end, they include a working platform designed to accommodate them and possibly also loads such as tools or other equipment, materials such as paint, cement, etc. The working platform comprises a tray surrounded by a guardrail. It is supported by a lifting mechanism which allows it to be raised from a lowered position on the chassis of the lifting platform to a desired working position at height.

[0003] There is a wide variety of lifting platforms to cope with the different desired uses. Thus, different technologies of the lifting mechanism of the work platform are used according to which the lifting platforms are generally qualified, for example scissor lifts, vertical mast lifts, articulated lifts, telescopic lifts. Depending on the case, the lifting device may comprise a turret pivotally mounted around a vertical axis on the chassis in order to allow the orientation of the lifting mechanism and therefore of the work platform to be changed relative to the chassis. The lifting platforms can also be self-propelled, that is to say motorized to allow their autonomous movement on the ground.

[0004] The work platform is equipped with a control panel allowing an operator on board the work platform to cause the work platform to move to reach the desired working position. For this purpose, the control panel is provided with control members allowing the operator to operate the lifting mechanism, but also, if necessary, the pivoting of the turret and the movement of the lifting platform on the ground.

[0005] The control console is generally mounted fixedly on the guardrail or at the level of the latter and is designed so that the operator stands in front of it when he wishes to manipulate the control members.

[0006] In the case in particular of scissor lifts and vertical mast lifts, the The control console is sometimes designed to be movable by the operator so that it can be removably hooked at different points on the guardrail, but preferably at a front corner of the work platform guardrail. For this purpose, the console is generally more compact and lighter than in the case of fixed consoles. The control console can also be designed so that the operator can hold it with one hand and operate its controls with the other, which makes it possible, in particular, to control the aerial work platform from the ground instead of the work platform. In this case, the control console is even more compact and even lighter.

[0007] When the work platform is moved by an operator at the work platform control console, there is a risk that the operator will be crushed against the control console by an external obstacle - for example, a part of a building, a structure or a tree branch - hitting him from behind or above. The same risk may exist with respect to the guardrail in cases where the operator can stand next to the control console while manipulating the control members of the latter. This is also the case for certain movable control consoles which are designed so that the operator stands next to the console rather than in front of it when the console is attached to the guardrail.

[0008] Protection systems have been proposed to protect the operator against this risk. Two types of solutions are mainly used nowadays.

[0009] A first type of protection system consists of mounting a fixed or mobile safety bar in front of the control console which is interposed between the control console and the operator standing in front of the console in order to manipulate its control members. The control system of the lifting platform stops or prevents the movements of the work platform when the bar is mechanically urged towards the console. This type of solution is illustrated in particular by FR 3 007 401 A1, EP 2 190 775 A1, JP 64-12100, JP H4-77600 U, GB 2 481 709 A1, WO 2017 / 098120 and WO 2020 / 144601.

[0010] A second type of protection system uses a contactless detection system to detect an abnormal position of the operator relative to the control panel or another type of situation that poses a risk to the operator. A typical example is to detect that the operator is too close to the control panel or possibly also too close to the guardrail on one side of the control panel. As in the first type of solutions, the operator protection system stops or prevents the movements of the work platform when the detection system detects that the operator is in an abnormal position in order to avoid a risk of crushing the operator. For example, JP 5-124800 A teaches to have optical barriers in front of and above the control panel. control. If the operator is pushed towards the console by an external obstacle, his body cuts off one and / or the other of the light beams in which case the corresponding receiver(s) no longer receive the light from the corresponding beam and consequently, the device stops the movements of the lifting platform. WO 2017 / 178737 proposes an improvement to this system which is based on the detection of an optical beam reflected by the operator instead of the non-reception of the emitted optical beam, which also allows it to be used to detect the proximity of the operator to the guardrail when he stands on a lateral side of the control console. According to another approach, US 10,358,331 B2 proposes using a stereoscopic camera with real-time image analysis. This document also proposes using a neutralization button (classically called an override button) to allow slow speed movement after being stopped or prevented by the protection system. WO 2021 / 026585 proposes using a LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) system to detect an abnormal position of the operator or an abnormal acceleration of the operator's body.

[0011] Besides these two types of protection systems, there are still others which use other means of detecting the risk of crushing the operator in order to cause the inhibition of the movements of the work platform, but they are less commonly used.

[0012] A common drawback of existing protection systems is that they stop or prevent the movements of the work platform if the operator is not sufficiently vigilant and unintentionally triggers the protection system. This is particularly true in the case of the second type of protection systems that use a non-contact detection system because the operator does not easily perceive that he may unintentionally trigger the detection. These untimely stops cause a loss of productivity. In addition, they can irritate the operator, which can cause his irritation and a corresponding drop in vigilance which is not desirable.

[0013] The aim of the present invention is to provide a solution for protecting the operator on board the working platform of lifting cradles, at least partially overcoming the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0014] To this end, the present invention proposes a method for anti-crushing protection of an operator on board a work platform of an elevating cradle, which method is implemented automatically, the elevating cradle comprising a control panel intended to be used on board the work platform and designed to allow the operator to initiate a movement of the work platform, the elevating cradle further comprising a detection system for detecting a risky situation for the operator on board the work platform.

[0015] The protection method comprises: implementing a first rule according to which the movement of the work platform is stopped if the movement is in progress at the time when the detection system detects the occurrence of the situation posing a risk to the operator; and the implementation of a second rule according to which the movement of the work platform is carried out at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement if the situation posing a risk to the operator is detected by the detection system at the time of the initiation of the movement at the control panel.

[0016] In the method of the invention, the management of a risky situation for the operator is therefore different depending on the circumstances in which it is detected. In other words, the same risky situation for the operator is managed either according to the first rule or according to the second rule depending on whether it is the condition of the first rule or the condition of the second rule which is satisfied.

[0017] The condition of the first rule, namely whether the movement of the work platform is in progress at the time when the detection system detects the occurrence of the situation which poses a risk to the operator, usually corresponds to a significant risk to the operator. This is why the implied consequence of the first rule is the stopping of the current movement of the work platform, in order to avoid possible crushing of the operator. For this reason, it is preferable that the stopping of the movement occurs immediately without delay as soon as the detection system detects the occurrence of the situation which poses a risk to the operator.

[0018] On the other hand, in the context of the invention, it has been noted that the condition of the second rule, namely if the risk situation for the operator is detected by the detection system at the time of initiation of the movement at the control panel, corresponds to a low risk for the operator. Indeed, in this case, the risk situation for the operator exists at the very moment when he initiates the movement of the work platform. In other words, the movement of the work platform initiated by the operator is not the origin of the risk situation. In particular, it may be that the operator has voluntarily placed himself in the risk situation before initiating the movement of the work platform.For example, it may approach the control console or the work platform guardrail at an unusually close distance in order to have a better view of the aerial work platform's surroundings before initiating a movement of the work platform.

[0019] It is therefore acceptable to allow the movement of the work platform initiated by the operator when the condition of the second rule is satisfied. However, as provided by the implied consequence of the second rule, it is prudent to only allow the movement at a speed reduced compared to a normal speed of movement applied in normal operation, i.e. when the situation at risk to the operator is not detected. Thus, the operator can easily react and manage the risk if, despite everything, a real risk to the operator arises after having started the movement of the work platform. The reduced speed is preferably less than or equal to half the normal speed of the movement concerned and is even more preferably less than or equal to a quarter or even a fifth of the latter. In cases where the speed of the movement concerned can be varied at the control panel by the operator, the maximum value of the normal speed of this movement and the maximum value of the reduced speed of this movement will be taken as a reference to apply this relationship between reduced speed and normal speed of the movement.

[0020] Since the method is implemented automatically, it will be understood that the first rule and the second rule are implemented automatically. In other words, they are applied automatically by the lifting platform without human intervention when the lifting platform is in operation, which ensures the effectiveness of the protection method. This also means that in the second rule, the reduced speed is applied automatically by the lifting platform without the operator having to engage a dedicated command for this purpose such as pressing a neutralization button (or & override button).

[0021] Allowing the movement initiated at the control panel under the second rule despite the detection of a risky situation advantageously makes it possible to significantly reduce the number of stops and the downtime of the work platform due to the intervention of the operator's anti-crushing protection while maintaining an excellent level of operator anti-crushing protection. This therefore results in a gain in productivity. In addition, since the implementation of the second rule is automatic, it does not cause any particular annoyance for the operator because the movement he initiates at the control panel is executed immediately without requiring any additional specific action on his part.

[0022] The detection system for detecting a risky situation for the operator on board the work platform may be any type of system for detecting a potentially dangerous situation for the operator on board the work platform due to the movement of the latter. The detection system may in particular be of any type used in operator crush protection systems for aerial work platforms of the prior art. In particular, it may be any type of detection system suitable for detecting a situation of risk of crushing for the operator on board the work platform due to the movement of the latter. Conventionally, the detection is preferably carried out relative to the body of the operator. A certain number of non-limiting embodiments of the detection system are mentioned below.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, the risk situation detected by the detection system is a position of the operator relative to the control console. This may conventionally involve detecting proximity of the operator to the front side and / or the top of the control console. In other words, it involves detecting the situation where the operator moves abnormally close to the control console relative to the position he normally occupies when using the control console. For this, it is possible in particular to use prior art systems consisting of mounting a fixed or mobile safety bar in front of the control console to detect a push against it. But the protection system of the invention is even more interesting in cases where it comprises a contactless detection system because the risk of untimely triggering of the detection is greater in this case.

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, it may involve detecting a distance of the operator from the control panel. In other words, in this case it is a matter of detecting the situation where the operator is abnormally far from the control panel compared to the position that he normally occupies when using the control panel.

[0025] Additionally or alternatively, the risk situation detected by the detection system may be a proximity of the operator to a part of the guardrail which is laterally adjacent to the control panel. In other words, in this case, it is a matter of detecting the situation where the operator is not standing in front of the control panel, but is standing abnormally close in front of a part of the guardrail right next to the control panel.

[0026] According to another preferred embodiment, the risk situation detected by the detection system is the absence of the operator in a determined zone relative to the control console on board the work platform. In other words, in this case, it is a question of detecting the situation where the operator is outside an area in which the operator is normally located when using the control console.

[0027] Additionally or alternatively, it may conversely involve detecting the presence of the operator in a specific area relative to the control panel on board the work platform. In other words, in this case, it is a matter of detecting the situation where the operator is in an area in which the operator should not normally be when using the control panel.

[0028] The detection of the presence or absence of the operator in a given zone is preferably implemented by contactless detection.

[0029] Although it is advantageously simple and effective to base the detection on a position of the operator on board the work platform or on the presence or absence of the operator in an area on board the work platform, the detection by the detection system of a risky situation may in other modes of rea The detection can be based on other physical parameters such as, for example, an acceleration of the operator's body. In particular, it may involve detecting an acceleration of the body exceeding a given threshold. This detection may indicate a collision between an obstacle external to the lifting platform and the operator.

[0030] According to yet another embodiment, the risk situation detected by the detection system may be the proximity of an obstacle external to the lifting platform with the operator on board the work platform. Such detection may also be implemented by contactless detection.

[0031] Generally, the detection system preferably uses contactless detection which can be implemented by any suitable technology, for example one or more photoelectric sensors, one or more LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors, one or more LADAR (Laser Detection and Ranging) sensors, one or more RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) sensors, one or more ultrasonic sensors and / or one or more cameras or one or more 3D vision devices with image analysis. But the detection system can also use contact detection.

[0032] According to a preferred embodiment, the method comprises: after triggering the second rule, executing the movement of the work platform at the reduced speed as long as the movement remains engaged at the control panel, including if the detection system ceases to detect a situation that poses a risk for the operator. Triggering the second rule means the case where the movement of the work platform is executed at the reduced speed compared to the normal speed of the movement in application of the second rule because the situation that poses a risk for the operator was detected by the detection system at the time of the engagement of this movement at the control panel. Maintaining the movement in progress at the reduced speed despite the cessation of detection of the situation that poses a risk for the operator avoids the risk of unbalancing the operator.Indeed, if the speed of movement of the work platform were to change from reduced speed to normal speed, the operator could become unbalanced due to the acceleration experienced by his body.

[0033] According to another preferred embodiment, the method comprises: excluding the implementation of the first rule when the movement is in progress at the reduced speed; and after triggering the second rule, executing the movement at the reduced speed as long as the movement remains engaged at the control panel without taking into account the detection system. This embodiment advantageously makes it possible to improve productivity as soon as a movement is in progress at the reduced speed due to the triggering of the second rule. Indeed, in the case where the risky situation for the operator ceases to be detected, then is detected again during the execution of the movement at reduced speed, the ongoing movement of the work platform is not stopped but will continue to continue at the reduced speed as long as the movement remains engaged at the control panel. This is acceptable from an operator safety point of view because the operator can easily react and manage the risk if it is real, given that the movement is executed at reduced speed.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment, the method is applied with respect to a rising movement of the work platform. In other words, the control panel is designed to allow the operator to initiate a rising movement of the work platform and the method comprises: implementing the first rule according to which the rising movement of the work platform is stopped if the rising movement of the work platform is in progress at the time when the detection system detects the occurrence of a risky situation for the operator; and implementing the second rule according to which the rising movement of the work platform is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of the movement if the risky situation for the operator is detected by the detection system at the time of initiating the rising movement of the work platform at the control panel.

[0035] According to another preferred embodiment, the method is applied with respect to a movement of the work platform parallel to the ground which is obtained by a translation on the ground of the lifting platform. In this case, the lifting platform is self-propelled to be able to translate on the ground, the control console being designed to allow the operator to initiate a translation on the ground of the lifting platform.And the method comprises: implementing the first rule according to which the ground translation of the lifting platform is stopped if the ground translation of the lifting platform is in progress at the time when the detection system detects the occurrence of a risky situation for the operator; and implementing the second rule according to which the ground translation of the lifting platform is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal ground translation speed of the lifting platform if a risky situation for the operator is detected by the detection system at the time of engagement of the ground translation of the lifting platform at the control console.

[0036] In this embodiment, the method may further advantageously comprise: implementing the first rule and the second rule only if the work platform is at least partially raised; and implementing a third rule according to which the ground translation of the lifting platform is authorized without taking into account the detection system on the condition that the work platform is in a completely lowered position. The implementation of this third rule is advantageous in terms of productivity because possible stops in the movement of the lifting platform on the ground are avoided due to the protection system. This is acceptable because the operator is then in the situation of a simple motor vehicle driver since the work platform is completely lowered, it being specified that in this case it is usually planned to be able to drive the lifting platform at high speed compared to the normal speed of translation on the ground when the work platform is raised.

[0037] According to another preferred embodiment in which the control console is designed to allow the operator to selectively initiate any movement among several different movements of the work platform, the method comprises: excluding at least one movement of the work platform from the implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to authorize this movement of the work platform without taking into account the detection system. In other words, if this movement is initiated at the control console, it will be executed at its normal speed independently of any possible detection of a risky situation for the operator. This embodiment is advantageously applicable to any movement considered not to increase the risk for the operator, or even that it possibly allows the risk for the operator to be reduced or eliminated. The fact of not inhibiting this movement also allows a gain in productivity.

[0038] This embodiment can advantageously be applied to the downward movement of the work platform. In other words, the control panel is designed to allow the operator to initiate a downward movement of the work platform and the method comprises excluding the downward movement of the work platform from the implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to authorize the downward movement of the work platform without taking into account the detection system.

[0039] Similarly, this embodiment can also be advantageously applied to the ground translation movement of the lifting platform in forward motion in the case where the lifting platform is self-propelled. In this case, the control panel is designed to allow the operator to initiate a ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion and the method comprises excluding the ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion from the implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to authorize the ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion without taking into account the detection system. Indeed, the risk of crushing for the operator compared to the ground translation in forward motion is very low because the operator naturally looks in the forward direction of the lifting platform in this case and therefore sees a possible external obstacle approaching him.This is especially true when the control panel is fixedly mounted on the platform. work because the mounting position of the control panel requires the operator to position himself naturally in front of it, looking towards the front of the lifting platform.

[0040] According to another preferred embodiment, at least one reset procedure is provided that can be executed at the control panel and the method comprises: in the event of triggering of the first rule, applying a first restricted operating mode until the reset procedure is executed; and prohibiting movement for the entire time that the first restricted operating mode is applied. Triggering of the first rule means the case where the movement of the work platform is stopped in application of the first rule because this movement was in progress at the time when the detection system detects the occurrence of the situation that poses a risk to the operator. This embodiment prevents the operator from being unbalanced due to an automatic restart of the movement if the detection of the situation that poses a risk to the operator ceases after having been stopped by application of the first rule.

[0041] According to an advantageous embodiment, the control console is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage any movement from among several different movements of the work platform and the method comprises for each of the movements of the work platform either the prohibition of executing the movement of the work platform during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode, or the authorization of executing the movement of the work platform only at a speed reduced compared to a normal speed of the movement - preferably without taking into account the detection system - during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode.

[0042] Thus, if during the application of the first restricted operating mode, the operator initiates a movement of the work platform the execution of which is prohibited, this movement will not be implemented by the lifting platform. Such a prohibition is preferentially applied to any movement of the work platform which is considered to be able to potentially aggravate the risk of crushing for the operator when a movement in progress of the work platform has just been stopped in application of the first rule. This prevents the operator from aggravating the risk of crushing by possibly accidentally initiating such a movement at the control panel.

[0043] On the contrary, the authorization to execute a movement of the work platform but only at reduced speed is preferentially applied to any movement of the work platform which is considered as potentially being able to reduce or eliminate the risk of crushing for the operator when a movement in progress of the work platform has just been stopped in application of the first rule. Thus, the operator can cause such an authorized movement by engaging it at the console control system in order to free himself from the risky situation. Executing such a movement at reduced speed allows the operator to better control it and therefore safe management of this movement of the work platform. For this reason, it is satisfactory to authorize the execution of the movement of the work platform without taking into account the detection system, which prevents the operator from being hindered by stops in the movement of the work platform due, for example, to a new detection of a risky situation for the operator, given that executing the movement at reduced speed allows him to manage the authorized movements of the work platform in a sufficiently safe way.

[0044] The prohibition of executing the movement of the work platform during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode is preferably always applied to the upward movement of the work platform because this is almost always dangerous when there is a situation with a risk of crushing for the operator. In other words, in this case, the control panel is designed to allow the operator to initiate an upward movement of the work platform and the method comprises prohibiting the upward movement of the work platform during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode, regardless of the movement of the work platform which was in progress at the time of triggering the first rule.

[0045] According to an embodiment in which the lifting platform is self-propelled to be able to translate on the ground and the control console is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion, a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse motion, a rising movement of the work platform and a lowering movement of the work platform, the method comprises, during the application of the first restricted operating mode due to a triggering of the first rule at a time when the work platform was subjected only to a rising movement, the authorization to execute only at a speed reduced compared to a normal speed of movement any movement among the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion, the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse motion and the lowering movement of the work platform.In fact, these three movements can be useful to the operator in this case to allow him to free himself from a situation where he could be crushed.

[0046] According to another embodiment in which the lifting platform is self-propelled to be able to translate on the ground and the control console is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion, a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse motion, an upward movement of the work platform and a downward movement of the work platform, the method comprises, during the application of the first restricted operating mode due to a triggering of the first rule at a time when the work platform was subjected only to a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse, the authorization to execute only at a speed reduced compared to a normal speed of movement the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion and the downward movement of the work platform. Indeed, these two movements can be useful to the operator in this case to allow him to free himself from a situation which poses a risk of crushing for him.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment in which the control console is designed to allow the operator to selectively initiate any one of a plurality of different movements of the work platform and in which at least one reset procedure executable at the control console is provided, the method comprises: in the event of triggering of the second rule, applying a second restricted operating mode until the reset procedure is executed; and during the entire time of application of the second restricted operating mode, authorizing any movement of the work platform to be executed only at a speed reduced compared to a normal speed of movement. This allows the operator to freely move the work platform despite the risky situation for the operator which led to the application of the second restricted operating mode.This promotes productivity and is acceptable in terms of safety for the operator since, as explained above, the movement of the work platform initiated by the operator is not the cause of the risky situation and the reduced speed of the movement of the work platform allows him to adequately manage a possible risk of crushing himself.

[0048] It is advantageous to provide, during the entire time of application of the second operating mode, the exclusion of the application of the first rule and the authorization to execute any movement of the working platform at the reduced speed without taking into account the detection system. Since the first rule is not applied during the second restricted operating mode and the detection system is not taken into account, possible involuntary stops of the movement of the working platform that the application of the first rule could otherwise cause are avoided. This promotes productivity and avoids irritating the operator when the second restricted operating mode is applied.

[0049] According to a further preferred embodiment, the method comprises: when the first restricted operating mode is being applied, deactivating the first restricted operating mode in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that the detection system has ceased to detect a situation which poses a risk to the operator; and / or when the second restricted operating mode is being applied, the deactivation of the second restricted operating mode in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that the detection system has ceased to detect a situation that poses a risk to the operator. The deactivation of the first restricted operating mode, respectively of the second restricted operating mode, causes the return to the normal operating mode. The fact of only terminating the restricted operating modes provided that the detection system has ceased to detect a situation that poses a risk to the operator advantageously ensures that the return to the normal operating mode takes place under safe conditions for the operator.

[0050] According to another preferred embodiment, the reset procedure comprises or consists of disengaging any movement of the work platform at the control console, the method comprising disabling the first restricted operating mode and / or the second operating mode in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that any movement of the work platform is disengaged at the control console and that the detection system has ceased to detect the situation posing a risk to the operator. In other words, the reset procedure only allows the first restricted operating mode and / or the second operating mode to be deactivated if concomitantly any movement of the work platform has been disengaged at the control console and the detection system has ceased to detect the situation posing a risk to the operator.

[0051] According to another preferred embodiment in which the lifting platform comprises a turret pivotally mounted on a chassis, the turret supporting a device for lifting the work platform, the control console being designed to allow the operator to initiate a rotation of the turret, the method comprises: implementing the first rule according to which the rotation of the turret is stopped if the rotation of the turret is in progress at the moment when the detection system detects the occurrence of a situation which is risky for the operator; and implementing the second rule according to which the rotation of the turret is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of rotation of the turret if a situation which is risky for the operator is detected by the detection system at the moment when the rotation of the turret is initiated at the control console.

[0052] According to another aspect, the invention proposes a system for protecting an operator of a lifting platform comprising a work platform and a control console intended to be used on board the work platform and designed to allow the operator to initiate at least one movement of the work platform, the protection system comprising: a detection system for detecting a risky situation for the operator on board the work platform; and a system of management of the movement of the work platform which management system is functionally connected to the detection system, the management system being configured to implement the method of anti-crushing protection of an operator according to the invention. In practice, the work platform is movable at least in height.

[0053] The management system can be implemented by on-board electronics of the lifting platform which is designed to control the movements of the work platform and more generally the movements of the lifting platform. The management system can also be a specific electronic circuit designed to be interfaced with the on-board electronics of the lifting platform which controls the movements of the work platform and the lifting platform. This electronic circuit can be housed for example in the control console or in a housing dedicated to the protection system, i.e. housing its detection system and its management system.

[0054] According to yet another aspect, the invention proposes a lifting platform, comprising a work platform movable at least in height and a control console intended to be used on board the work platform and designed to allow an operator to initiate at least one upward movement of the work platform and one downward movement of the work platform, the lifting platform further comprising a system for protecting an operator of a lifting platform according to the invention.

[0055] According to a preferred embodiment, the lifting platform is self-propelled to translate on the ground in forward and reverse motion, the control console being further designed to allow the operator to initiate a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward and reverse motion.

[0056] According to another preferred embodiment, the lifting platform is a scissor lift or a lifting platform with a fixed vertical mast. By vertical mast lifting platform, we mean a vertical mast lifting platform which is without a pivoting turret and the orientation of the mast of which is fixed relative to the chassis of the lifting platform on which it is mounted.

[0057] According to yet another embodiment, the lifting platform comprises a turret pivotally mounted on a chassis, the turret supporting a device for lifting the work platform, the control console being further designed to allow the operator to initiate rotation of the turret. In this case, the lifting platform is preferably a lifting platform with a telescopic mast or a lifting platform with an articulated mast or a lifting platform with a vertical mast and pivoting turret.

[0058] Other aspects, characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of examples and with reference to the appended drawing.

[0059] [Fig.l] represents a scissor lift according to a first preferred embodiment, its working platform being in the lowered position on its chassis.

[0060] [Fig.2] represents the same lifting platform, but its working platform is this times in the raised position.

[0061] [Fig.3] represents an isolated view of the control panel of this lifting platform which is equipped with a detection system comprising two immaterial barriers.

[0062] [Fig.4] represents a local view of this lifting platform which shows one end from its work platform and the control panel attached to its guardrail.

[0063] [Fig.5] schematically represents a local perspective view of the platform working of this lifting platform with an operator standing at the control panel.

[0064] [Fig.6] schematically represents a top view for the case of the figure previous.

[0065] [Fig.7] represents a synoptic diagram of the assembly formed by the desk of control, the operator protection system and the on-board electronics of the lifting platform according to the first embodiment.

[0066] [Fig.8] represents an isolated view of another nacelle control console elevator which is equipped with a detection system comprising three immaterial barriers.

[0067] [Fig.9] represents a local view of this lifting platform which shows one end from its work platform and the control panel from the previous figure attached to its guardrail.

[0068] [Fig. 10] is a view similar to [Fig.4], and relates to an embodiment identical to the first embodiment described with reference to figures 1 to 7, except as regards the detection system of the operator protection system.

[0069] [Fig. 11] represents, for this embodiment, a local perspective view of the working platform of this lifting platform with an operator standing at the control panel.

[0070] [Fig. 12] schematically represents, for this embodiment, a top view on which is materialized the measuring beam of a LIDAR or LADAR detector equipping the detection system of the operator protection system and a normal positioning of the operator standing at the control console.

[0071] [Fig. 13] represents a lifting platform according to another embodiment which The lifting platform is of the articulated type.

[0072] We will now describe the lifting platform according to the first preferred embodiment with reference to Figures 1 to 7. As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the lifting platform is a scissor lift. It comprises a chassis 1, a scissor lifting mechanism 2 mounted on the chassis 1 and a platform of work platform 3 mounted on the scissor lift mechanism 2. The work platform 3 is provided with a horizontal platform 7 surrounded by a guardrail 8 to prevent people from falling off it. The guardrail 8 comprises four sides 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d each corresponding to a different side of the platform 7. The platform 7 and the guardrail 8 may comprise sliding parts at one end of the work platform 3 or at both ends in order to allow users to vary the working surface available on board the work platform 3.

[0073] The scissor lifting mechanism 2 comprises beams hinged in their center in a scissor manner, these scissor mechanisms being mounted one above the other by their ends which are pivotally connected in order to be able to deploy. A hydraulic cylinder 4 - or alternatively several - makes it possible to actuate the scissor lifting mechanism 2 in order to lower and raise the work platform 3 to the desired working height.

[0074] The chassis 1 is provided with front wheels 5 and rear wheels 6 by means of which the chassis 1 rests on the ground and which allow the lifting platform to be translated on the ground. The front side of the lifting platform is referenced AV and its rear side is referenced AR. The lifting platform has a motorization to allow its autonomous movement on the ground. The motorization is generally mounted directly on the chassis 1.

[0075] Alternatively, the invention also relates to vertical mast lifting platforms. In vertical mast lifting platforms, the lifting mechanism is designed in the form of an extendable mast comprising vertical parts sliding on each other to extend vertically to the desired working height. Their lifting mechanism sometimes comprises a turret on which the extendable mast is mounted, the turret being pivotally mounted on the chassis about a vertical axis in order to be able to vary the orientation of the working platform relative to the chassis. Sometimes, the working platform is mounted on the highest vertical part by means of a pendulum arm - that is to say an arm articulated to the vertical mast about a horizontal axis - in order to give more flexibility to the user to reach the working position.

[0076] More generally, the invention relates to any other type of lifting platform, regardless of the type of lifting mechanism of the platform, in particular telescopic or articulated lifting platforms. The invention is also applicable to the case of lifting platforms which are not motorized to ensure their autonomous movement on the ground, but which are towed or pushed for this purpose.

[0077] The work platform 3 is equipped with a control panel 10 illustrated by figures 3 and 4. The control panel 10 is provided with control members allowing an operator to cause the movement of the work platform 3 to reach the desired working position. In this example, buttons 14 make it possible to select the type of movement that can be engaged with a control handle 13 from among the translation of the aerial work platform on the ground and the vertical movement of the work platform 3. The control handle 13 makes it possible to carry out the selected type of movement: it is tiltable forwards and backwards to, depending on the case, raise or lower the work platform 3 or move the aerial work platform forwards or backwards on the ground. In other words, the operator engages the desired movement by tilting the control handle 13. In normal operation, the engaged movement is carried out as long as the control handle 13 is kept tilted and it is stopped when the operator lets the control handle 13 return to its neutral position.The control handle 13 makes it possible to vary the speed of the selected movement according to its degree of inclination, preferably proportionally. Buttons - not shown - located on the top of the control handle 13 make it possible to modify the orientation of the steered wheels, in this case the front wheels 5 - alternatively, the rear wheels 6. The control console 10 is provided with a wired connection not shown - or alternatively a wireless connection - with on-board electronics 50 - cf. [Fig.7] - housed for example under the chassis 1. The on-board electronics 50 controls the power components of the lifting platform, in particular the motorization and the hydraulic cylinder(s) 4, in particular according to the commands entered by the operator at the control console 10.

[0078] The control console 10 is removable and designed to be hooked at different locations on the guardrail 8 for the convenience of the operator on board the work platform 3 when maneuvering the lifting platform. For this purpose, the control console 10 has on its right side 21 a side plate 11 extending vertically relative to the housing of the control console 10. The plate 11 has at its upper end a suitable shape 12 - for example an upside-down U-shaped section - allowing the control console 10 to be hooked to a horizontal bar of corresponding dimensions on the guardrail 8. The hooking system may be different and made in any suitable manner that allows the operator to manually unhook or hook the control console 10 to the guardrail 8 without requiring a tool.A system for manually locking the control panel 10 to the guardrail 8 or a system for indexing the control panel 10 on the guardrail 8 may also be provided, for example by means of a pin in order to prevent the control panel 10 from sliding on the guardrail 8, for example under the effect of vibrations.

[0079] The control console 10 is also designed to be able to be held with one hand so that the operator can manipulate the control members 13, 14 with the other. This allows the operator to control the lifting platform from the ground. For this purpose, the control panel 10 is provided with a gripping handle 15, which in this example is formed as an opening in the side plate 11. In addition, the control panel 10 is sufficiently compact - preferably less than 30 cm wide, or even less than 25 cm wide - and has an appropriately low weight.

[0080] When on board the work platform 3, the operator manipulates the control members 13, 14 of the control console 10 when it is attached to the guardrail 8. The latter is then attached so as to be on the side of the guardrail 8 towards the inside of the work platform 3 in order to conveniently access the control members 13, 14. Most often, the operator attaches the control console 10 towards the front end of the long side 8b of the guardrail 8 as illustrated in Figures 1, 2 and 4.

[0081] Given the small width of the control console 10 and that its system for attaching to the guardrail 8 is arranged on the right side 21, the operator usually stands on the left side 22 of the control console 10 when manipulating the control members 13, 14, in this case with his right hand. This position is illustrated by [Fig. 5] where the operator is referenced by the letter O, the operator also being symbolically represented in [Fig. 6]. The risk of crushing the operator then comes above all from an obstacle external to the lifting platform which strikes him from behind when the lifting platform is moving backwards or which strikes him from above when lifting the work platform 3.

[0082] Nevertheless, the operator is also likely to approach the section 8b of the guardrail 8 and lean over this section, for example, to look at the orientation of the wheels of the lifting platform. The operator is even likely to position himself in front of the front side 20 of the control console 10, facing the section 8b of the guardrail 8 while manipulating the control members 13, 14 with his left hand and lean over the section 8b of the guardrail 8. The risk of crushing against this section 8b then comes above all from an external obstacle above him if he initiates a movement of raising the work platform 3.

[0083] In order to ensure the safety of the operator, the control panel 10 is provided with an anti-crushing protection system for the operator when the latter is on board the work platform 3: this protection system is referenced 60 in [Fig.7]. The protection system 60 is provided to protect the operator against a risk of crushing due to an external obstacle - for example a part of a building or a structure or a tree branch - striking him from behind or from above. It comprises a detection system 61 comprising two immaterial barriers visible in Figures 3 to 6.

[0084] A first immaterial barrier B1 is erected in front of the part of the panel 8a of the guard- body 8 which is adjacent to the left side 22 of the control panel 10. A second immaterial barrier B2 is erected above the part of the panel 8b of the guardrail 8 which is adjacent to the right side of the control panel 10 and which extends beyond the front side 20 of the control panel 10 in the direction towards the rear of the work platform 3. For further details on the implementation of the immaterial barriers B1 and B2, reference may be made to WO 2017 / 178737.

[0085] In this embodiment, it is considered that there is a situation potentially presenting a risk of crushing for the operator as soon as an interference with any one of the two immaterial barriers B1, B2 is detected. In the remainder of the description of this embodiment, the fact of mentioning that the detection system 61 detects a situation presenting a risk for the operator means that the detection system 61 detects an interference with any one of the two immaterial barriers B1, B2. On the contrary, the fact of mentioning that the detection system 61 does not detect a situation presenting a risk for the operator means that the detection system 61 does not detect any interference with any one of the two immaterial barriers B1, B2.

[0086] As shown in [Fig.7], the protection system 60 also comprises a management system 62 for the movement of the work platform 3. The detection system 61 is functionally connected to the management system 62 which is designed to manage the movement of the work platform 3 as a function of a detection signal which is supplied to it by the detection system 61. For this purpose, the management system 62 may be constituted by its own electronic circuit which is interfaced with the on-board electronics 50 of the lifting platform. This electronic circuit may for example be housed in the control panel 10. Alternatively, the management system 62 may be fully implemented by the on-board electronics 50 of the lifting platform.

[0087] We will now describe how the protection system 60 manages the movements of the work platform 3 thanks to the management system 62 in cooperation with the detection system 61.

[0088] The management system 62 authorizes a normal operating mode in the absence of detection of a risky situation for the operator by the detection system 61, in other words in the absence of interference with one of the immaterial barriers B1, B2. In this case, the management system 62 authorizes the execution of the movements of the work platform 3 without any restriction. In other words, when the operator initiates any movement of the work platform 3 at the control panel 10, including by means of a translation of the lifting platform on the ground, the management system 62 authorizes its execution without restriction and the on-board electronics 50 therefore implements it at a normal speed of movement.

[0089] In the normal operating mode, the protection system 60 is preference provided so as not to influence the ground translation of the lifting platform when the work platform 3 is in a fully lowered position because the operator is then in the situation of a simple driver of a motor vehicle. In other words, the ground translation of the lifting platform is authorized without taking into account the detection system 61 as long as the work platform 3 is in a fully lowered position in accordance with the third rule stated above. In other words, the first rule and the second rule are only implemented if the work platform 3 is at least partially raised.

[0090] Furthermore, in the normal operating mode, the protection system 60 is preferably designed not to influence the execution of a movement of the work platform 3 when the movement concerned is considered to be in itself without risk for the operator. Thus, the protection system 60 can be designed to always authorize the downward movement of the work platform 3 without taking into account the detection system 61. In other words, the downward movement of the platform is executed at its normal speed as long as this movement is engaged at the control panel 10 regardless of whether there is interference or not with one or other of the immaterial barriers B1, B2. Indeed, there is no risk of crushing the operator in the case of the downward movement of the work platform 3.

[0091] Similarly, the management system 62 can be designed to always authorize the ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion without taking into account the detection system 61. In other words, the ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion is carried out at its normal speed as long as it is engaged at the control panel 10 regardless of whether there is interference or not with one or other of the immaterial barriers B1, B2. Indeed, in this case too, the risk of crushing for the operator remains low. This is all the more the case if the control panel is fixedly mounted on the work platform 3 towards the front thereof, unlike the case of the embodiment described, since in this case the operator at the control panel normally looks towards the front of the lifting platform.

[0092] Furthermore, it is advantageous for the management system 62 to authorize the change of orientation of the wheels independently of any possible detection of a risky situation for the operator by the detection system 61. Indeed, the change of orientation of the wheels does not cause any movement of the work platform 3 and therefore does not present any risk for the operator. And this allows the operator to lean over the guardrail 8 to see the orientation of the steered wheels 5 or 6 during the change of orientation of the wheels that he operates at the control panel 10.

[0093] In the normal operating mode, the protection system 60 is, on the other hand, designed to influence the execution of a movement of the work platform 3 in the event of detection of a risky situation for the operator when the movement concerned is considered to be a risk for the operator. This is generally the case for the upward movement of the work platform 3. In the present embodiment, this is also the case for the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse. These movements will hereinafter be referred to as risky movements.

[0094] Alternatively, it is nevertheless possible to treat the translational movement on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion and / or the lowering movement of the work platform 3 as risky movements in the same way as the translational movement on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse motion and the raising movement of the work platform 3 and therefore to influence their execution in a similar manner in the event of detection of a risky situation for the operator.

[0095] The way in which the management system 62 influences the execution of a risky movement of the work platform 3 initiated at the control panel 10 in the event of detection of a risky situation for the operator is different depending on the chronology between the moment when the movement of the work platform 3 is initiated at the control panel 10 and the moment when the detection system 61 detects the risky situation for the operator.

[0096] If a risky movement of the work platform 3 is in progress at the time when the detection system 61 detects the occurrence of a risky situation for the operator, the management system 62 causes the stopping of this movement in application of the first rule. This is the situation where the risky movement of the work platform 3 is initiated by the operator at the control panel 10 at a time when the detection system 61 does not detect a risky situation for the operator, but detects one subsequently while the risky movement of the work platform 3 is in progress: the first rule is then triggered. The management system 62 immediately causes the stopping of the risky movement of the work platform 3 as soon as the detection system 61 signals to it the existence of the risky situation for the operator.

[0097] In other words, in this embodiment, if during the normal operating mode, the operator initiates at the control panel 10 the upward movement of the working platform 3 or the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse at a time when there is no interference with one or other of the immaterial barriers B1, B2, but such interference occurs while one or other of these movements is being executed, the management system 62 immediately causes this movement to stop. On the other hand, as explained above, it is advantageous that the first rule does not apply to the downward movement of the working platform 3, nor to the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion.

[0098] When there is a triggering of the first rule, the management system 62 also immediately applies a first restricted operating mode as a replacement for the normal operating mode. This first restricted operating mode is applied at least until a reset procedure is performed.

[0099] The risky movement that has been stopped by the management system 62 in application of the first rule remains prohibited for the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode, including if the detection system 61 ceases to detect the risky situation. This prevents the risky movement from restarting automatically in the event of removal of the risky situation for the operator.

[0100] During the first restricted operating mode, the management system 62 also applies restrictions to the execution of other movements of the work platform 3 than that stopped by application of the first rule, if they are engaged at the control panel 3 after activation of the first restricted operating mode. The nature of the restriction differs again depending on whether the movement of the work platform 3 concerned is considered to be risky or not for the operator. More precisely, depending on the movement concerned of the work platform 3, the management system 62 either prohibits its execution, or authorizes it but only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of the movement.

[0101] Any movement of the work platform 3 considered to be at risk is preferably prohibited during the first restricted operating mode. In particular, it is preferable that the execution of the upward movement of the work platform 3 is always prohibited, regardless of the current movement of the work platform 3 which has been stopped in application of the first rule.

[0102] On the other hand, any movement of the work platform 3 considered as potentially being able to reduce or eliminate the risk of crushing for the operator is preferentially authorized at reduced speed during the first restricted operating mode when a movement in progress of the work platform 3 has been stopped in application of the first rule. In this sense, if the movement in progress of the work platform 3 which has been stopped in application of the first rule is the upward movement, then the management system 62 preferentially authorizes the execution at reduced speed of the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion, the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse motion and the downward movement of the work platform 3.If the current movement of the work platform 3 which has been stopped in application of the first rule is the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse, then the management system 62 preferably authorizes the execution at reduced speed of the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion and the lowering movement of the work platform 3. On the other hand, the management system 62 prohibits the upward movement of the . work platform 3 as mentioned previously.

[0103] If during the normal operating mode, the detection system 61 detects a risky situation for the operator at the moment when the latter initiates a risky movement from the work platform 3 to the control panel 10, the second rule is triggered. In other words, the management system 62 authorizes the execution of this risky movement of the work platform 3 but only at a speed reduced compared to the normal speed of the movement. This is a case where the risky situation for the operator detected by the detection system 61 pre-exists or occurs simultaneously with the initiation of this movement from the work platform 3 to the control panel 10 by the operator.

[0104] In other words, in this embodiment, if during the normal operating mode, the operator initiates at the control panel 10 the upward movement of the working platform 3 or the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse at a time when there is interference with one or other of the immaterial barriers B1, B2, the management system 62 authorizes the execution of this movement but only at the reduced speed. On the other hand, as explained above, it is preferable that the second rule does not apply to the downward movement of the working platform 3, nor to the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion.

[0105] The risky movement of the work platform 3 engaged at the control panel 10 under the conditions of the second rule is preferably executed at the reduced speed as long as it remains engaged at the control panel 10, including if the detection system ceases to detect the risky situation for the operator. This avoids possible variations in the speed of the movement which could destabilize the operator.

[0106] It is even more preferable to exclude the application of the first rule when a movement is in progress at reduced speed and to have the movement of the working platform 3 executed at reduced speed in application of the second rule as long as it remains engaged at the control panel without taking into account the detection system. Productivity is thus improved by avoiding stops in the movement of the working platform 3 which would be due to the application of the first rule. The safety of the operator is nevertheless sufficiently ensured due to the reduced speed of the movement which allows him to react in the event of danger.

[0107] Even more advantageously, it can be provided that as soon as there is a triggering of the second rule, the management system 62 immediately applies a second restricted operating mode in replacement of the normal operating mode. This second restricted operating mode is applied until a reset procedure is executed. The management system 62 preferably authorizes the execution of any movement of the work platform 3 that the operator engages at the control panel 10 during the second restricted operating mode, but only at a speed reduced compared to a normal speed of movement. In other words, no movement of the working platform 3 is executed at the normal operating speed during the second restricted operating mode. It is even more advantageous that the management system 62 does not apply the first rule during the second restricted operating mode and authorizes the execution of any movement of the working platform 3 at the reduced speed without taking into account the detection system 61. Thus, the protection system 60 will not cause stops in the movements of the working platform 3 during the second restricted operating mode.These measures all aim to increase productivity while ensuring satisfactory operator safety due to the reduced speed of movements of the work platform 3 during the second restricted operating mode.

[0108] In this embodiment, the operation of the control handle 13 during the application of the first restricted operating mode and during the application of the second restricted operating mode is preferably similar to the normal operating mode. In other words, any movement of the working platform 3 permitted only at a reduced speed in the first restricted operating mode or in the second restricted operating mode, which is engaged at the control handle 13 is executed as long as the control handle 13 is kept inclined and it is stopped when the operator lets the control handle 13 return to its neutral position. And the speed of the selected movement also varies depending on the degree of inclination of the control handle 13 preferably proportionally.Simply, the maximum value of the speed of the movement concerned is reduced during the application of one or other of the restricted operating modes compared to the maximum value of the speed of this movement during the normal operating mode. This prevents the operator from being disturbed by a different operation of the control handle 13 when the restricted operating modes are applied.

[0109] Whether during the first restricted operating mode or during the second restricted operating mode, it is preferable that the maximum value of the reduced speed of a movement of the work platform 3 is less than or equal to half the maximum value of the normal speed of this same movement and is more preferably still less than or equal to a quarter or even a fifth of the latter.

[0110] As mentioned, the first restricted operating mode and the second restricted operating mode can be deactivated to return to the normal operating mode by means of a reset procedure. It is provided at least a reset procedure that can be executed at the control panel 10 by the operator, which avoids the need for a third party to intervene. This reset procedure is preferably the same for both restricted operating modes. It is preferable to deactivate each of the restricted operating modes by executing the reset procedure only on condition that the detection system 61 has ceased to detect a situation that poses a risk to the operator, which allows a particularly safe transition to the normal operating mode for the operator.

[0111] For example, the reset procedure consists of disengaging any movement of the work platform 3 at the control console 10. In other words, in this embodiment, the operator must let the control handle 13 return to the neutral position. In addition, the operator O must reposition himself so as to no longer interfere with the immaterial barriers B1 and B2 in order to deactivate the current restricted operating mode and reactivate the normal operating mode. In other words, when these two conditions are satisfied simultaneously, the operator O can restart the movement concerned by reengaging it at the control console 10 or else initiate another movement of the work platform 3 at the control console 10, the movement then being executed at its normal speed in accordance with the normal operating mode.The simplicity of this reset procedure has the advantage of promoting productivity while promoting a safe transition to normal operating mode because no movement is initiated at the control panel 10 at the time of transition to normal operating mode.

[0112] Alternatively, the reset procedure may further comprise pressing a reset button on the control panel 10.

[0113] Optionally, a push button 40 - or another type of manually actuated member - may be arranged on the control panel 10 to allow the operator to neutralize the protection system 60, in other words to prevent the protection system 60 from stopping the movements of the work platform 3, including by translation on the ground of the lifting platform, or from reducing its speed. This makes it possible to avoid untimely triggering of the protection system 60 when the control panel 10 is not attached to the guardrail 8, but the operator is holding the control panel 10 by hand. It is preferable that the neutralization is effective only as long as the operator keeps the push button 40 or the member concerned actuated. Furthermore, it is preferable that the operator be informed of the neutralization of the protection system 60 by some signal on the control panel 10 or otherwise.It is preferable to provide such a neutralization member of the protection system 60 only for removable type control desks which are intended to be used with one hand by the operator while he holds it with his other hand.

[0114] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate a second preferred embodiment using another control console - referenced 100 - provided with manual control members 113, 114 similar to those of the control console 10. The elements corresponding to those of the control console 10 are referenced by the same numbers increased by 100.

[0115] The entire description given for the first preferred embodiment is applicable for this second preferred embodiment, except for the differences discussed below.

[0116] The control console 100 is also removable and designed to be hung in different places of the guardrail 8 by the operator without using tools. But in this case, its hanging system 112 is placed on the rear side 123 of the control console 100. The control console 100 has a size and weight greater than those of the control console 10 and is not designed to be held with one hand while manipulating the control members 113, 114 with the other hand.

[0117] The control panel 100 comprises an operator protection system comprising a detection system with two immaterial barriers B101, B102 which respectively perform the same function as the immaterial barriers B1, B2 of the control panel 10. It will be noted that the photoelectric detector DI02 of the immaterial barrier B102 is housed laterally in the lower part of the front side of the control panel 100. The photoelectric detector D101 of the immaterial barrier B101 is housed in a support 130 which advances relative to a rear plate 111 for mounting on the guardrail 8. This makes it possible to place the immaterial barrier B101 at the appropriate distance from the panel 8a of the guardrail 8.

[0118] Finally, because the control panel 100 is wider than the control panel 10, it is desirable to protect the operator from the risk of being crushed against the control panel 100. To this end, the detection system comprises a third immaterial barrier B103. The light curtain B103 extends above the control panel 100 preferably from the rear 123 thereof so that the operator does not interfere with the light curtain 103 when standing upright at the control panel 100, but rather interferes with it when leaning beyond a certain angle onto the control panel 100. For this purpose, it is advantageous for the light curtain B103 to extend from the rear 123 of the control panel 100 while facing upwards towards the front 120 of the control panel 100 as illustrated.For more details on the implementation of immaterial barriers B101, B102 and B103, please refer to WO 2017 / 178737.

[0119] In this second embodiment, a protection system similar to the protection system 60 of the first embodiment is provided: its management system implements the same management of the movements of the work platform than the management system 62 of the first embodiment. The only difference is that a situation at risk of crushing for the operator O is determined this time by the detection of interference with any of the immaterial barriers B101, B102 and B103.

[0120] It is preferable that the maximum detection distance of the immaterial barriers B101, B102 and B103 as well as that of the immaterial barriers B1, B2 of the first embodiment is appropriately limited in order to avoid untimely triggering of the protection system when the working environment at height is cluttered. From this point of view, it is preferable that the maximum detection distance of each of the immaterial barriers, measured from the control panel 10, 100, is less than or equal to 100 cm and more preferably less than or equal to 60 cm. This maximum detection distance is referenced respectively 11 and 12 for the immaterial barriers B1 and B2 of the control panel 10 - cf. [Fig.3] - and it is referenced respectively 1101, 1102 and 1103 for the immaterial barriers B101, B102 and B103 of the control panel 100.

[0121] Figures 10 to 12 illustrate a third preferred embodiment which is based on the first embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 7. The only differences of this third embodiment compared to the first embodiment reside in the detection system of the operator protection system 60. Therefore, all the description made for the first embodiment applies to this third embodiment and the same reference numbers are used to designate the same elements, except for what concerns the detection system - hereinafter referenced 61' - and its components. The detection system 61' is operatively connected to the management system 62 as in the first embodiment. The detection system 61' is based on one or more LIDAR or LADAR sensors. It will now be described in more detail.

[0122] The detection system 61' comprises a first LIDAR or LADAR sensor referenced D201. The sensor D201 is arranged on the control console 10 so as to point towards the front of the control console 10 in the direction of the place where the operator O normally stands in front of the control console 10 when he uses it to control the movements of the work platform 3. The measuring beam of the sensor D201 is symbolized by dashes and is referenced FL. The sensor D201 therefore makes it possible to measure the distance between the operator O and the control console 10 when he stands in front of the control console 10.

[0123] As illustrated in [Fig.12], the sensor D201 makes it possible to define a protected driving zone referenced Z2 in which the operator O is supposed to stand when using the control panel 10. The protected driving zone Z2 corresponds to a distance interval defined in relation to the sensor D201. The protected driving zone Z2 is defined as extending from a distance L1 to a distance L2 greater than L1, both of which are defined relative to the sensor D201. This distance interval is defined to correspond to a position of the operator O relative to the control console 10 which is neither too close nor too far from it.

[0124] In operation, it is considered that there is potentially a risk situation for the operator O when the distance of the operator O measured by the sensor D201 is outside this distance interval. This is the case if the operator O is standing in a zone ZI corresponding to a distance less than the distance L1 with respect to the sensor D201. This is also the case if the operator O is standing in a zone Z3 corresponding to a distance greater than the distance L2 with respect to the sensor D201.

[0125] It is considered that there is also potentially a risky situation for the operator O in the case where the sensor D201 does not report a distance measurement because the operator O is standing outside the measurement beam F1 or beyond the measurement range of the sensor D201 which is in this case a distance L3 greater than L2.

[0126] In summary, it is considered that, in operation, there is potentially a risk situation when the detection system 61' determines by means of the sensor D201 that the operator O is outside the zone Z2.

[0127] The detection system 61' can be supplemented by a second LIDAR or LADAR sensor referenced D202. Its measuring beam is referenced F2 in Figures 10 and 11. The sensor D202 is dedicated to detecting a risk of crushing of the operator O against the section 8b of the guardrail 8 located next to the control console 10 when it is attached to the dedicated location of the guardrail 8. The second sensor D202 is useful due to the small size of the control console 10. Indeed, it is possible that the detection system 61' determines that the operator O is in the distance interval relative to the first sensor D201 which corresponds to the zone Z2 while it can simultaneously be leaning towards the section 8b, which potentially corresponds to a situation with a risk of crushing for the operator O.

[0128] The sensor D202 is arranged on the control console 10 in such a way that, on the one hand, its measuring beam F2 does not encounter the operator O when he is normally standing at the control console 10, that is to say without being leaning towards the section 8b of the guardrail 8. And on the other hand, the sensor D202 is arranged on the control console 10 in such a way that its measuring beam F2 encounters the operator O when he is leaning towards the section 8b while he is located in the distance interval relative to the first sensor D201 which corresponds to the zone Z2. As can be seen in FIGS. 11 and 12, it is arranged on the lateral side of the control console 10 which is close to the section 8b. The measuring range of the sensor D202 may be more limited than that of the sensor D201.

[0129] Therefore, it is considered that there is potentially a risk situation for operator O as soon as sensor D202 provides a distance measurement because operator O cuts the measuring beam F2.

[0130] The sensor D202 thus makes it possible to laterally delimit the protected driving zone Z2 on the side corresponding to the section 8b of the guardrail 8.

[0131] It will be understood that the sensor D202 provides the same protection function as the light curtain B2 of the first embodiment. Alternatively, the sensor D202 is replaced by the light curtain B2 of the first embodiment.

[0132] In summary, in this third embodiment, the detection system 61' detects a potentially risky situation for the operator O as soon as it determines by means of the sensors D201 and D202 that the operator O is located outside the protected driving zone Z2. In cooperation with the detection system 61', the management system 62 of the operator protection system implements the same management of the movements of the work platform 3 as that which was described above for the first embodiment.

[0133] [Fig. 13] shows a self-propelled lifting platform according to another embodiment which lifting platform is of the articulated type. It comprises a chassis 301 supporting a lifting device 302 for a work platform 303. The lifting device 302 comprises, in a known manner, two articulated arms supporting at its upper end a telescopic arm at the end of which the work platform 303 is supported, possibly by means of a small pendulum arm. The lifting device 302 is mounted on the chassis 301 by means of a turret 304. The turret 304 can rotate about a vertical axis relative to the chassis 301, which makes it possible to modify the angular orientation of the lifting device 302 relative to the chassis.

[0134] A control console 300 is fixedly mounted on or near the guardrail of the work platform 303. The control console 300 allows an operator to initiate the various movements of the work platform 303, including the translation on the ground of the chassis 301. It therefore allows the lifting platform to be translated on the ground in forward and reverse motion, to raise or lower the work platform 303 and to rotate the turret 304 relative to the chassis 301.

[0135] The control console 300 is equipped with a system for protecting the operator on board the lifting platform which operates in a similar manner to those described previously. In other words, it comprises a detection system for detecting a risky situation for the operator on board the work platform 303. The detection system may be similar to one or other of the embodiments described previously.

[0136] The detection system is functionally connected to a management system which manages the movements of the work platform 303 in particular on the basis of the signal from detection provided by the detection system.

[0137] The management system implements a management of the movements of the work platform 303 similar to that described for the embodiments described previously, but by additionally managing the rotational movement of the turret 304. From this point of view, the rotational movement of the turret 304 is considered to be a risky movement in both directions of rotation. In other words, the first rule is also implemented with respect to the rotation of the turret 304, that is to say to stop its rotation if it is in progress at the moment when a risky situation for the operator is detected. In this case, the first restricted operating mode will authorize the rotation of the turret 304 at a reduced speed in the opposite direction compared to the direction of rotation which was stopped in application of the first rule.In case of triggering of the second rule, the rotation of the turret 304 will also be authorized but only at a speed reduced compared to the normal rotation speed, regardless of the direction of rotation. The first restricted operating mode and the second restricted operating mode described for the other embodiments can apply similarly, considering that the rotational movement of the turret 304 is a risky movement in both directions of rotation.

[0138] Of course, the present invention is not limited to the examples and the embodiment described and represented, but it is susceptible to numerous variants accessible to those skilled in the art.

Claims

Claims

1. A method of anti-crushing protection for an operator (0) on board a work platform (3; 303) of a lifting platform, which method is implemented automatically, the lifting platform comprising a control panel (10; 100; 300) intended to be used on board the work platform and designed to allow the operator to initiate a movement of the work platform, the lifting platform further comprising a detection system (61; 61') for detecting a risky situation for the operator (O) on board the work platform which corresponds to a potentially dangerous situation for the operator on board the work platform due to the movement of the work platform and the protection method comprising: - implementing a first rule according to which the movement of the work platform is stopped if the movement is in progress at the time when the detection system (61 ;61') detects the occurrence of the risk situation for the operator (O), and - the implementation of a second rule according to which the movement of the work platform is carried out at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement if the risk situation for the operator (O) is detected by the detection system at the time of the engagement of the movement at the control panel (10).;

2. Method according to claim 1, in which the risk situation detected by the detection system is a situation of risk of crushing for the operator on board the work platform due to the movement of the latter, the detection being carried out relative to the body of the operator.

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, which comprises: - after triggering of the second rule, executing the movement of the work platform at the reduced speed as long as the movement remains engaged at the control panel (10; 100; 300), including if the detection system (61; 61') ceases to detect the risky situation for the operator (O).

4.

5.

6. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the method comprises: - the exclusion of the application of the first rule when the movement is in progress at reduced speed, and - after triggering the second rule, execution of the movement at reduced speed as long as the movement remains engaged at the control panel (10; 100; 300) without taking into account the detection system. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to enable the operator to initiate a raising movement of the work platform, the method comprising: - implementing the first rule according to which the upward movement of the work platform is stopped if the upward movement of the work platform is in progress at the time when the detection system (61; 61') detects the occurrence of the situation posing a risk for the operator (O), and - implementing the second rule according to which the upward movement of the work platform is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of the movement if the situation posing a risk for the operator (O) is detected by the detection system at the time of the engagement of the upward movement of the work platform at the control panel (10). Method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, in which the lifting platform is self-propelled so as to be able to translate on the ground, the control console (10; 100; 300) being designed to allow the operator to initiate a translation on the ground of the lifting platform, the method comprising: - the implementation of the first rule according to which the ground translation of the lifting platform is stopped if the ground translation of the lifting platform is in progress at the time when the detection system (61) detects the occurrence of the risky situation for the operator (O), and - the implementation of the second rule according to which the ground translation of the lifting platform is carried out at a reduced speed compared to a normal ground translation speed of the lifting platform if the risky situation for the operator (O) is detected by the detection system at the time of engagement of the ground translation of the lifting platform at the control panel (10).

7. A method according to claim 6, comprising: - the implementation of the first rule and the second rule only if the working platform is at least partially raised, and - the implementation of a third rule according to which the ground translation of the lifting platform is authorized without taking into account the detection system on the condition that the work platform is in a fully lowered position.

8. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the control console (10; 100; 300) is adapted to allow the operator to selectively engage any one of a plurality of different movements of the work platform, the method comprising: - the exclusion of at least one movement of the working platform from the implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to authorize this movement of the working platform without taking into account the detection system.

9. A method according to claim 8, wherein the control console (10; 100; 300) is adapted to allow the operator to initiate a downward movement of the work platform, the method comprising: the exclusion of the downward movement of the working platform from the implementation of the first rule and the

10.

11.

12. second rule so as to allow the downward movement of the work platform without taking into account the detection system. Method according to claim 8 or 9, in which the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to initiate ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion, the method comprising: - the exclusion of the ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion from the implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to authorize the ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion without taking into account the detection system. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least one reset procedure is provided, the reset procedure being executable at the control panel, the method comprising: - in case of triggering of the first rule, the application of a first restricted operating mode until the reset procedure is executed, and - the prohibition of movement for the entire duration of the application of the first restricted operating mode. A method according to claim 11, wherein the control console (10; 100; 300) is adapted to allow the operator to selectively engage any one of a plurality of different movements of the work platform, the method comprising for each of the movements of the work platform: - either the prohibition on carrying out the movement of the work platform during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode, - either the authorization to execute the movement of the work platform only at a speed reduced compared to a normal speed of movement for the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode.

13.

14.

15. A method according to claim 12, wherein the control console (10; 100; 300) is adapted to allow the operator to selectively engage any one of a plurality of different movements of the work platform, the method comprising for each of the movements of the work platform: - either the prohibition on carrying out the movement of the work platform during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode, - either the authorization to execute the movement of the work platform only at a speed reduced compared to a normal speed of movement without taking into account the detection system during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode. A method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the control console (10; 100; 300) is adapted to enable the operator to initiate a raising movement of the work platform, the method comprising: - the prohibition of the upward movement of the working platform for the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode, regardless of the movement of the working platform which was in progress at the time of the triggering of the first rule. Method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, in which the lifting platform is self-propelled so as to be able to translate on the ground and the control console (10; 100) is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion, a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse motion, a rising movement of the work platform and a lowering movement of the work platform, the method comprising during the application of the first restricted operating mode due to a triggering of the first rule at a time when the work platform was subjected only to a rising movement: - authorization to perform only at a speed reduced compared to a normal speed of movement any movement among the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion, the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse motion and the lowering movement of the work platform.

16. A method according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein the lifting platform is self-propelled so as to be able to translate on the ground and the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage a ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion, a ground translation of the lifting platform in reverse motion, an upward movement of the work platform and a downward movement of the work platform, the method comprising during the application of the first restricted operating mode due to a triggering of the first rule at a time when the work platform was subjected only to a ground translation of the lifting platform in reverse motion: - authorization to carry out only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion and the lowering movement of the working platform.

17. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the control console (10; 100; 300) is adapted to allow the operator to selectively engage any one of a plurality of different movements of the work platform and at least one reset procedure is provided, the reset procedure being executable at the control console, the method comprising: - if the second rule is triggered, the application of a second restricted operating mode until the reset procedure is performed, and - during the entire time of application of the second restricted operating mode, authorization to carry out any movement of the work platform only at a reduced speed compared to normal speed of movement.

18. Method according to claim 17, in which the method comprises during the entire time of application of the second operating mode: - the exclusion of the application of the first rule and the authorization to execute any movement of the work platform at the reduced speed without taking into account the detection system.

19. Method according to any one of claims 11 to 18, comprising: - when the first restricted operating mode is being applied, deactivating the first restricted operating mode in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that the detection system (61; 61') has ceased to detect the risky situation for the operator (0), and / or: - when the second restricted operating mode is being applied, deactivating the second restricted operating mode in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that the detection system (61; 61') has ceased to detect the risky situation for the operator (0).

20. A method according to any one of claims 11 to 19, wherein the reset procedure comprises or consists of disengaging any movement of the work platform at the control console, the method comprising disabling the first restricted operating mode and / or the second operating mode upon execution of the reset procedure provided that any movement of the work platform is disengaged at the control console and the detection system (61; 61') has ceased to detect the situation at risk for the operator (0).

21. A method according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the The lifting platform comprises a turret (304) pivotally mounted on a chassis (301), the turret supporting a lifting device (302) for the work platform (303), the control console (300) being designed to allow the operator to initiate rotation of the turret (304), the method comprising: - the implementation of the first rule which includes stopping the rotation of the turret (304) if the rotation of the turret is in progress at the time when the detection system (61) detects the occurrence of the risky situation for the operator (O), and - the implementation of the second rule which includes the rotation of the turret (304) at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of rotation of the turret if the risky situation for the operator (O) is detected by the detection system at the moment when the rotation of the turret is engaged at the control panel (10).

22. Anti-crushing protection system (60) for an operator (O) of a lifting platform comprising a working platform (3; 303) and a control panel (10; 100; 300) intended to be used on board the working platform and designed to allow the operator to initiate at least one movement of the working platform (3), the protection system comprising: - a detection system (61; 61') for detecting a risky situation for the operator (O) on board the work platform which corresponds to a potentially dangerous situation for the operator on board the work platform due to the movement of the work platform; and - a management system (62) for the movement of the work platform, which management system is functionally connected to the detection system, wherein the management system (62) is configured to implement the method according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

23. Lifting platform, comprising a working platform (3; 303) movable at least in height and a control panel (10; 100; 300) intended to be used on board the working platform (3; 303) and designed to allow an operator (O) to engage in at least one upward movement of the work platform and one downward movement of the work platform, the lifting platform further comprising a protection system according to claim 22, and preferably: - the lifting platform is self-propelled to translate on the ground in forward and reverse gear, in which case the control panel (10; 100; 300) is further designed to allow the operator to initiate a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward and reverse gear, and / or - the lifting platform: • either is a scissor lift or a fixed vertical mast lift, • either comprises a turret (304) pivotally mounted on a chassis (301) in which case the turret supports a lifting device (302) for the work platform (303) and the control console (300) is further designed to allow the operator to initiate rotation of the turret (304), the lifting platform preferably being a lifting platform with a telescopic mast or a lifting platform with an articulated mast or a lifting platform with a vertical mast and pivoting turret.

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