Method for handling a set of electronic boards between a trolley and an industrial control system, trolley and assembly for handling a set of electronic boards

Abstract

A method for handling a set of electronic boards between a trolley and an industrial control system, trolley and assembly for handling a set of electronic boards. A method for handling a set of electronic boards (12) between a trolley (18) and an industrial control system (13) comprising one or more cabinets (14), the system (13) being configured to receive at least one subset (16) of electronic boards (12), the trolley (18) comprising at least one trolley housing (24) configured to receive said subset (16), the method comprising the following steps: - transferring each subset (16) between the trolley housing (24) and the system (13) in a first location (15); - transporting the trolley (18) between the first location (15) and a second location (17); and - loading into or unloading the trolley (18) in the second location (17). Figure for the abstract: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Method for handling a set of electronic cards between a trolley and an industrial control system, trolley and assembly for handling a set of electronic cards

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for handling a set of electronic cards between a trolley and an industrial control system.

[0002] As part of a project to modernize industrial control systems, for example in the case of compliance with a new standard, it is generally necessary to update the control cabinets, and in particular to replace the existing electronic cards with new electronic cards.

[0003] For this purpose, new electronic cards are generally delivered in boxes, which are then stored and then unpacked. Each electronic card must then be identified and then manually installed in a specific location dedicated to it in one of the control cabinets.

[0004] Due to the large number of electronic cards to be replaced, this process is long and costly in terms of logistics space and labor, which is unsatisfactory.

[0005] Furthermore, the process is not very ergonomic for operators and the risk of error in the installation of new electronic cards is high.

[0006] One of the aims of the invention is to overcome these drawbacks and to propose a method for handling a set of electronic cards in an industrial control system with a reduced risk of non-quality, improved ergonomics for operators while reducing the necessary logistical storage area.

[0007] To this end, the invention proposes a method for handling a set of electronic cards between a trolley and an industrial control system comprising one or more cabinets, the system being configured to receive at least one subset of electronic cards, the trolley comprising at least one trolley housing configured to receive said subset of electronic cards, the method comprising at least the following steps:

[0008] - transfer of each subset of electronic cards between the housing of corresponding trolley and the system, the transfer being carried out in a first location;

[0009] - transporting the trolley between the first location and a second location;

[0010] - loading into or unloading from the carriage each subset of cards electronics in the second location.

[0011] According to particular embodiments, the method comprises one or several of the following optional features, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0012] - In each trolley housing, the electronic cards are arranged vertically calmly.

[0013] - At least one of the cabinets comprises at least one cabinet housing, each cabinet housing being configured to receive one of the subsets of electronic cards, each subset of electronic cards comprising electronic cards arranged in a particular arrangement.

[0014] - The system comprises a plurality of cabinets, each cabinet receiving at least an electronic card, each subset of electronic cards comprising one of the electronic cards of each cabinet.

[0015] - At least one or each subset of electronic cards comprises several identical electronic cards each received in a respective cabinet among a plurality of cabinets of the system.

[0016] - The method comprises an additional step, in which the electronic cards electronics are placed in the carriage, the placing comprising the arrangement of each subset of electronic cards on the corresponding carriage housing, the placing being carried out in the second location; the placing step being followed by the transporting step, in which the carriage is transported from the second location to the first location, the transporting step being followed by the transferring step, in which each subset of electronic cards is transferred from one of the corresponding carriage housing to the system.

[0017] - Each electronic card comprises an identification marker; during the step of installation, the identification marker of each electronic card is scanned.

[0018] - The step of transporting from the second location to the first location comprises an additional substep, in which the carriage is transported to a third location comprising a certification cabinet, the certification cabinet comprising at least one certification slot, each subset of electronic cards being transferred from the corresponding carriage slot to the corresponding certification slot, and then from the certification slot to the carriage slot.

[0019] - The transfer step comprises the transfer of each subset of electronic cards electronics of the system to the corresponding trolley housing, the transfer step being followed by the transport step, in which the trolley is transported from the first location to the second location.

[0020] - The transport step comprises an additional sub-step, in which the trolley is transported to a fourth location, in which the trolley is stored for a predetermined period of time.

[0021] - The trolley includes a mechanism for adjusting the height of the housings of carriage, the method comprising an additional step of adjusting the height (H) of the carriage housings.

[0022] - The carriage comprises a mechanism for adjusting the position of said carriage, the method comprising an additional step before the transfer step in which the position of the carriage is adjusted according to the position of the system.

[0023] - The method comprises an additional step of making blocks available removable, each block receiving one of the sub-assemblies of electronic cards.

[0024] - The second location is located on a production and / or handling site electronic cards and / or the first location is located on a nuclear industrial site, in particular a nuclear power plant

[0025] The invention also relates to a trolley comprising:

[0026] - at least one carriage housing, each carriage housing being configured to receive a subset of electronic cards; and

[0027] - a mechanism for adjusting the height of the carriage housings configured to adjust the height of at least one of the carriage housings.

[0028] According to particular embodiments, the trolley comprises one or more of the following optional characteristics, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0029] - The trolley is equipped with wheels and a suspension device interposed between the trolley and wheels.

[0030] - The carriage includes an adjustment mechanism configured for adjusting the height of said trolley.

[0031] - The cart comprises at least one storage space configured to receive a documentation on the electronic cards received in each trolley housing.

[0032] - The trolley comprises a retractable stabilizing device capable of being deployed to hold the carriage in a fixed position and retract to allow the carriage to move.

[0033] - The trolley comprises a door movable between an open position and a position closed, the door comprising at least one device for locking the electronic cards in position in the corresponding carriage housing when the door is in the closed position.

[0034] The invention also relates to an assembly for handling a set of electronic cards comprising:

[0035] - an industrial control system, the system being configured to receive at least a subset of electronic cards, and

[0036] - a carriage comprising at least one carriage housing (24), each carriage housing carriage being configured to receive one of the electronic card subassemblies.

[0037] According to particular embodiments, the assembly comprises one or more of the following optional characteristics, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0038] - The trolley is as described above.

[0039] - The system comprises a cabinet comprising at least one cabinet housing, each cabinet housing being configured to receive one of the subsets of electronic cards, each subset of electronic cards comprising electronic cards arranged in a particular arrangement.

[0040] - The system comprises a plurality of cabinets, each cabinet receiving at least an electronic card, each subset of electronic cards comprising one of the electronic cards of each cabinet.

[0041] - The assembly comprises at least one removable block, each block receiving one of the electronic card subassemblies.

[0042] The invention and its advantages will be better understood on reading the following description, given solely as a non-limiting example, and made with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

[0043] - [Fig. 1] [Fig. 1] is a block diagram illustrating a method according to a first mode of realization of the invention; and

[0044] - [Fig.2][Fig.3] Figures 2 and 3 are schematic representations of stages of the process of [Fig.l].

[0045] - [Fig.4] Figure 4 is a schematic representation of steps of a method according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0046] [Fig.l] illustrates a block diagram of a method 100 for handling a set of electronic cards 12 between a trolley 18 and an industrial control system 13 according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0047] By electronic card 12 is meant a set of electronic components arranged on a support, for example in the form of a support plate, and interconnected by an electrical circuit, in particular a printed circuit.

[0048] An electronic card 12 has, for example, the shape of a straight block.

[0049] The system 13 is configured to receive at least one subset 16 of electronic cards 12.

[0050] The system 13 is located in a first location 15, which for example is located in an industrial control room. More particularly, the first location 15 is located on a nuclear industrial site, in particular a nuclear power plant.

[0051] In this first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, the system 13 comprises a cabinet 14.

[0052] As illustrated in [Fig. 3], the cabinet 14 comprises at least one cabinet housing 20, and preferably a plurality of cabinet housings 20 delimited from each other for example by horizontal 22 and / or vertical separators.

[0053] Each cabinet housing 20 is configured to receive a subset 16 of electronic cards 12.

[0054] In this first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3, each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 comprises electronic cards 12 arranged according to a predetermined arrangement.

[0055] By a predetermined arrangement, it is meant that each subassembly 16 of electronic cards 12 is positioned in a predefined cabinet housing 20 and that in each cabinet housing 20, the electronic cards 12 of the same subassembly 16 are arranged side by side and in a predefined order.

[0056] Preferably, in the cabinet housing 20, each electronic card 12 is arranged vertically.

[0057] In particular, in the case where the electronic cards 12 are straight blocks, the length of each electronic card 12 is arranged vertically.

[0058] The method 100 preferably comprises a first phase 102 carried out in a second location 17, for example located on a production and / or handling site for the electronic cards 12.

[0059] The first phase 102 comprises for example a step of receiving the electronic cards 12 which will be intended to be installed in the cabinet 14.

[0060] The electronic cards 12 are delivered in batches of identical cards. Advantageously, the electronic cards 12 are delivered directly from the electronic card production site, and preferably without disposable intermediate packaging, which makes it possible to limit the quantity of waste.

[0061] Each subassembly 16 comprises for example between two and ten electronic cards 12.

[0062] The first phase 102 of the method comprises a step a) illustrated in [Fig. 2] of loading the electronic cards 12 into a carriage 18. In particular, the carriage 18 comprises at least one carriage housing 24, and preferably a plurality of carriage housings 24 delimited from each other for example by horizontal 26 and / or vertical separators. Each carriage housing 24 is preferably configured to correspond to one of the cabinet housings 20 and to receive the corresponding subassembly 16 of electronic cards 12.

[0063] In each carriage housing 24, the electronic cards 12 are preferably arranged vertically.

[0064] The carriage 18 advantageously comprises an adjustment mechanism 28 configured for adjusting the height H of at least one of the carriage housings 24, in par- particular of each trolley housing 24.

[0065] The adjustment mechanism 28 is for example configured to move each of the horizontal separators 26 upwards or downwards so as to adapt the height H of each of the carriage housings 24 defined between two horizontal separators 26.

[0066] In the case where the carriage 18 comprises such an adjustment mechanism 28, the first phase 102 of the method 100 preferably comprises an additional step before step a) of adjusting the height H of each carriage housing 24, for example as a function of the height h of the corresponding subassembly 16 of electronic cards 12.

[0067] As illustrated in [Fig.2], step a) of loading the electronic cards 12 into the carriage 18 comprises arranging each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 on one of the carriage housings 24 preferably according to the predetermined arrangement.

[0068] More particularly, the particular arrangement of the sub-assemblies 16 of electronic cards 12 in each carriage housing 24 of the carriage 18 is identical to the particular arrangement of the sub-assemblies 16 of electronic cards 12 in each cabinet housing 20 of the cabinet 14.

[0069] For example, each electronic card 12 is placed individually in the corresponding carriage housing 24, so as to constitute the corresponding subassembly 16.

[0070] In the example illustrated in [Fig.2], the electronic card 12 with the designation “3” is placed individually in the corresponding carriage housing 24 in its predefined location, here next to the electronic card 12 with the designation “2”.

[0071] Alternatively, during step a), the electronic cards 12 of the same subassembly 16 are placed simultaneously in the corresponding carriage housing 24.

[0072] For this purpose, the first phase 102 of the method 100 comprises an additional step before step a) of providing removable blocks 30, each block 30 receiving one of the sub-assemblies 16 of electronic cards 12.

[0073] Each block 30 comprises for example a holding element 31 defining a block housing 33 configured to receive one of the sub-assemblies 16 of electronic cards 12 preferably arranged according to the predetermined arrangement.

[0074] In particular, the electronic cards 12 of a subassembly 16 are firstly arranged individually according to the predetermined arrangement in one of the blocks 30 so as to constitute the corresponding subassembly 16, then the block 30 is arranged in the corresponding carriage housing 24.

[0075] In the example illustrated in [Fig.2], the electronic cards 12 with the deno minations “G” to “L” are first placed individually in the block 30 in a predefined order, then the block 30 is arranged in the corresponding carriage housing 24.

[0076] Preferably, each block 30 comprises a mechanism 35 for adjusting the height of the block housing 33, in particular as a function of the height h of the corresponding subassembly 16 of electronic cards 12.

[0077] In the case where the block 30 comprises such an adjustment mechanism 35, the first phase 102 of the method 100 preferably comprises an additional step before step a) of adjusting the block housing height 33 as a function of the height h of the corresponding subset 16 of electronic cards 12. Advantageously, each electronic card 12 comprises an identification marker 32.

[0078] The identification marker 32 comprises for example a name of the electronic card 12 and / or information on the nature of the electronic components of the electronic card 12.

[0079] The identification marker 32 is for example an electronic chip, in particular an RIFD chip or a code, in particular an alphanumeric code, a matrix code (or “QR code”) or a bar code.

[0080] Preferably, during step a), the identification marker 32 of each electronic card 12 is scanned, in particular in order to improve the traceability of the electronic cards 12 placed in the carriage 18.

[0081] The method 100 then comprises a step 110 of transporting the carriage 18 between the first location 15 and a second location 17, and in particular from the second location 17 to the first location 15.

[0082] The step 110 of transporting the second location 17 to the first location 15 advantageously comprises a first additional sub-step 103 of transporting the carriage 18 to a third location comprising a certification cabinet comprising at least one certification housing.

[0083] The third location is for example located on a site different from that of the second location 17 and / or that of the first location 15.

[0084] The third location is for example located on an electronic equipment certification site.

[0085] The transport step 110 preferably also comprises a second sub-step 104 in which each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 is transferred from the corresponding carriage housing 24 to the corresponding certification housing preferably according to the same predetermined arrangement.

[0086] During this second sub-step 104, the electronic cards 12 are preferably checked in the certification cabinet, for example to verify their correct operation and in particular their conformity with a norm or standard.

[0087] The electronic cards 12 are then transferred from the certification housing to the carriage housing 24, preferably according to the same predetermined arrangement.

[0088] This optional sub-step 104 allows verification and control of the electronic cards 12, in particular for the purpose of certification of the electronic cards 12.

[0089] The step 110 of transporting the second location 17 to the first location 15 preferably comprises a third additional sub-step 105 of transporting the carriage 18 to a fourth location.

[0090] The fourth location is for example located on a site different from that of the second location 17 and that of the first location 15.

[0091] The fourth location preferably comprises a storage area.

[0092] The transport step 110 preferably comprises an additional sub-step 106, in which the trolley 18 is stored for a predetermined period of time, in particular in the storage area of ​​the fourth location.

[0093] For example, the trolley 18 is stored for a period of time between 5 days and 3 years.

[0094] Preferably, the storage area has a controlled temperature and humidity.

[0095] For example, the temperature of the storage area is between 15°C and 25°C. The temperature setpoint is for example defined at 20°C.

[0096] The relative humidity is for example between 25% and 75%. The humidity setpoint is for example set at 50%.

[0097] Step 110 then comprises a sub-step 107 of transporting the carriage 18 to the first location 15, in which the cabinet 14 is located.

[0098] The trolley 18 is for example transported by road transport, rail transport, sea transport and / or air transport to the first location 15.

[0099] In sub-step 107, the carriage 18 is preferably transported in the vicinity of the cabinet 14, as illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0100] Preferably, the carriage 18 is positioned so that each carriage housing 24 faces the corresponding cabinet housing 20.

[0101] For this purpose, the carriage 18 advantageously comprises a mechanism 34 for adjusting the position of the carriage 18.

[0102] The adjustment mechanism 34 is for example configured to adjust the height of the carriage 18, and in particular as illustrated in [Fig. 3], to vertically move the carriage housings 24, so that these are positioned opposite the cabinet housings 20.

[0103] In the case where the carriage 18 comprises such a position adjustment mechanism 34, the method 100 preferably comprises, after step b), an additional step of adjusting the position of the carriage 18 as a function of the position of the cabinet housing(s) 20.

[0104] The method 100 then comprises a step 108, illustrated in [Fig. 3], of transferring each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 from the carriage housing 24 corresponding to the system 13, and more particularly into the corresponding cabinet housing 20, preferably according to the same predetermined arrangement.

[0105] Transfer step 108 is performed in the first location 15.

[0106] In particular, each electronic card 12 is transferred individually from the carriage housing 24 to the cabinet housing 20.

[0107] Alternatively, in the embodiment where blocks 30 are made available, each block 30 is for example first removed from the carriage 18, then each electronic card 12 is transferred individually from the block housing 33 to the corresponding cabinet housing 20.

[0108] This embodiment is particularly advantageous in the case where it is not possible to place the carriage 18 opposite the cabinet 14. Each block 30 can be brought individually as close as possible to the cabinet 14.

[0109] The installation method 100 according to the invention facilitates the installation of the electronic cards 12 in the cabinet 14, in particular thanks to the carriage 18 in which the electronic cards 12 are already positioned according to the predetermined arrangement. The risk of error when installing the electronic cards 12 in the cabinet 14 is thus reduced.

[0110] This method also makes it possible to improve ergonomics for the operator, in particular by adapting the carriage 18.

[0111] Furthermore, this method reduces the storage area required and waste, since the electronic cards 12 are directly arranged in the carriage 18.

[0112] An assembly 10 for installing a set of electronic cards 12 will now be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0113] The assembly 10 is in particular intended to be used in the method 100 as described previously. The assembly 10 comprises a system 13 of an industrial control system and a trolley 18.

[0114] In particular, in the first embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the system 13 comprises a cabinet 14.

[0115] As described previously, the cabinet 14 comprises at least one cabinet housing 20, and preferably a plurality of cabinet housings 20 delimited from each other for example by horizontal and / or vertical separators 22.

[0116] In particular, each cabinet housing 20 is configured to receive a subset 16 of electronic cards 12 arranged according to a predetermined arrangement.

[0117] The cabinet 14 is located in a first location 15, which for example is located in an industrial control room. As previously described, the cart 18 comprises at least one cart housing 24, and preferably a plurality of cart housings. carriage 24 delimited between them for example by horizontal 26 and / or vertical separators.

[0118] In particular, each carriage housing 24 is configured to receive one of the subsets 16 of electronic cards 12 arranged according to a predetermined arrangement, and preferably according to the same predetermined arrangement as in the corresponding cabinet housing 20.

[0119] Furthermore, the carriage 18 advantageously comprises an adjustment mechanism 28 configured for adjusting the height H of at least one of the carriage housings 24 as a function of the height h of the corresponding subassembly 16 of electronic cards 12.

[0120] Preferably, the adjustment mechanism 28 is configured to adjust the height H of each of the carriage housings 24.

[0121] The mechanism 28 for adjusting the height of the housings of the carriage 24 comprises, for example, a vertical rail along which the horizontal separators 26 are movable.

[0122] Preferably, the adjustment mechanism 28 comprises a locking system configured to lock each horizontal separator 26 in a plurality of positions along the vertical rail.

[0123] Furthermore, the carriage 18 advantageously comprises a mechanism 34 for adjusting the position of the carriage 18.

[0124] The adjustment mechanism 34 of the position of the carriage 18 is for example constituted by a scissor system or a telescopic system.

[0125] Preferably, the carriage 18 comprises wheels 36, and advantageously four wheels 36, configured to facilitate the movement of the carriage 18.

[0126] Furthermore, the carriage 18 advantageously comprises a suspension device 38 for the wheels 36.

[0127] The suspension device 38 of the wheels 36 comprises, for example, for each wheel 36, a spring 40 arranged between the wheel 36 and the chassis of the trolley 18.

[0128] Preferably, the carriage 18 also comprises at least one storage space 50 configured to receive documentation of the electronic cards 12 received in the carriage housings 24.

[0129] In particular, the storage space 50 comprises, for example, a basket intended to receive the documentation, such as the technical data sheets, of the electronic cards 12 received in the trolley housings 24.

[0130] Advantageously, the carriage 18 comprises a retractable stabilization device 52 capable of being deployed to lock the carriage 18 in a fixed position and retracted to allow the carriage 18 to move.

[0131] The stabilization device 52 comprises for example one or more retractable feet 54, and preferably one respective foot 54 per wheel 36.

[0132] Each foot 54 is advantageously mounted movably on a chassis of the carriage 18 between a retracted position illustrated in [Fig.2] and a deployed position illustrated in [Fig.3],

[0133] In the retracted position, each foot 54 extends away from the ground 55.

[0134] In the deployed position, each foot 54 extends into contact with the ground 55, so as to block a horizontal translation of the carriage 18, and therefore the movement of the wheels 56.

[0135] Furthermore, in the deployed position as illustrated in [Fig. 3], each foot 54 extends between the chassis of the trolley 18 and the ground 55, so as to block a vertical translation of the trolley 18, and therefore the movement of the suspension device 38 of the wheels 36.

[0136] Furthermore, the carriage 18 comprises, for example, a door 56 movable between an open position (illustrated in [Fig.2]) and a closed position (not illustrated).

[0137] The door 56 advantageously comprises at least one locking device 58 in position of the electronic cards 12 in the corresponding carriage housing 24 when the door 56 is in the closed position.

[0138] Each locking device 58 comprises for example a flexible block, in particular made of foam, configured to come against the electronic cards 12 when the door 56 is in the closed position.

[0139] Such a carriage 18 is particularly advantageous for handling electronic cards 12, and in particular for being used during the method 100.

[0140] Indeed, the adjustment mechanism 28 makes it possible to adjust the height H of each carriage housing 24 to the height h of the corresponding subassembly 16 of electronic cards 12.

[0141] Furthermore, the adjustment mechanism 34 of the position of the carriage 18 makes it possible to adapt the position of the carriage housings 24, so that these are positioned opposite the cabinet housings 20, in order to facilitate the transfer of the electronic cards 12 from the carriage housings 24 to the cabinet housings 20.

[0142] Furthermore, the suspension device 38 of the wheels 36 makes it possible to limit vibrations when the carriage 18 is moving, which limits the risk of damage to the electronic cards 12 and also increases driving comfort.

[0143] In a particular embodiment, the assembly 10 further comprises at least one removable block 30, and preferably a plurality of removable blocks 30.

[0144] Each block 30 receives for example one of the sub-assemblies 16 of electronic cards 12.

[0145] As described above, each block 30 advantageously comprises a holding element 31 defining a block housing 33 configured to receive one of the subassemblies 16 of electronic cards 12 preferably arranged according to the predetermined arrangement.

[0146] Preferably, each block 30 comprises a mechanism 35 for adjusting the height of the block housing 33, in particular as a function of the height h of the corresponding subassembly 16 of electronic cards. The mechanism 35 for adjusting the height of the block housing 33 comprises, for example, a vertical rail along which the holding element 31 is movable.

[0147] As a variant of the invention, the electronic cards 12 are delivered directly by sub-assemblies 16 of electronic cards 12.

[0148] During step a), each subassembly 16 of electronic cards 12 delivered is for example directly arranged in the corresponding carriage housing 24 according to the predetermined arrangement.

[0149] Alternatively, in the embodiment where removable blocks 30 are provided, each delivered subassembly 16 is previously arranged according to the predetermined arrangement in one of the blocks 30, then the block 30 is arranged in the corresponding carriage housing 24.

[0150] The invention is not limited to the exemplary embodiments and variants described previously and illustrated in the drawings.

[0151] In particular, a method according to a second embodiment of the invention is described below. The second embodiment is analogous to the method 100 shown in Figures 1 to 3. Similar elements bear the same reference numerals and will not be described again. Only the differences will be described in detail below.

[0152] More particularly, the assembly 10 as described above is intended to be used in the second embodiment according to the second embodiment.

[0153] In the second embodiment, the transfer step 108 comprises the transfer of each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 of the system 13 to the corresponding carriage housing 24, and more particularly from the corresponding cabinet housing 20 to the corresponding carriage housing 24, preferably according to the same predetermined arrangement.

[0154] In particular, each electronic card 12 is transferred individually from the cabinet housing 20 to the trolley housing 24.

[0155] Alternatively, in the embodiment where blocks 30 are provided, each block 30 is for example first removed from the cabinet housing 20, then arranged in the corresponding trolley housing 24.

[0156] In the second embodiment, the transfer step 108 is followed by the transport step 110, in which the carriage 18 is transported from the first location 15 to the second location 17.

[0157] In this second embodiment, the second location 17 is for example situated on a site for handling electronic cards 12. As a variant, the second location 17 is for example located at a waste sorting center.

[0158] The second embodiment then comprises a step of unloading from the carriage 18 each subassembly 16 of electronic cards 12 into the second location 17.

[0159] This second embodiment is particularly advantageous for removing the electronic cards 12 from the operational cabinet 14 of the industrial control system, in particular for the purpose of repairing them and / or disposing of them to replace them with new electronic cards 12 for example according to the method 100 of the first embodiment of the invention.

[0160] A method according to a third embodiment of the invention illustrated in [Fig. 4] is described below. The third embodiment is analogous to the method 100 shown in Figures 1 to 3. Similar elements have the same reference numerals and will not be described again. Only the differences will be described in detail below.

[0161] The assembly 130 according to the third embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment, in that the system 13 comprises a plurality of cabinets 14, each cabinet 14 receiving at least one electronic card 12.

[0162] Each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 comprises one of the electronic cards 12 of each cabinet 14. Preferably, the electronic cards 12 of the same subset 16 are identical.

[0163] In particular, at least one or each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 comprises several identical electronic cards 12 each received in a respective cabinet 14 among a plurality of cabinets 14 of the system 13.

[0164] The third embodiment according to the third embodiment preferably comprises a first phase 102 carried out in a second location 17.

[0165] The first phase 102 comprises for example a step of receiving the electronic cards 12 which will be intended to be installed in the cabinet 14.

[0166] The first phase 102 of the method comprises a step a) of loading the electronic cards 12 into the carriage 18, in particular the arrangement of each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 on one of the carriage housings 24.

[0167] Preferably, each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 advantageously comprises a batch of identical cards 12.

[0168] For example, each electronic card 12 is placed individually in the corresponding carriage housing 24, so as to constitute the corresponding subassembly 16.

[0169] Alternatively, during step a), the electronic cards 12 of the same subassembly 16 are placed simultaneously in the corresponding carriage housing 24, for example by providing removable blocks 30 such as described in the first embodiment.

[0170] The third embodiment then comprises the step 110 of transporting the carriage 18 from the second location 17 to the first location 15.

[0171] The third embodiment then comprises a step 108 of transferring each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 from the carriage housing 24 corresponding to the system 13.

[0172] More particularly, each electronic card 12 is transferred individually from the carriage housing 24 to one of the cabinets 14.

[0173] This third embodiment is particularly advantageous for installing a batch of identical electronic cards 12 in a plurality of cabinets 14 of an industrial control system.

[0174] A method according to a fourth embodiment of the invention is described below. The fourth embodiment of the invention is more particularly a combination of the second embodiment and the third embodiment.

[0175] More particularly, the assembly 130 such as the third embodiment is intended to be used in the fourth embodiment according to the fourth embodiment.

[0176] In the fourth embodiment, the transfer step 108 comprises the transfer of each subset 16 of electronic cards 12 from the carriage housing 24 corresponding to the system 13.

[0177] More particularly, each electronic card 12 is transferred individually from one of the cabinets 14 to the corresponding carriage housing 24.

[0178] In the fourth embodiment, the transfer step 108 is followed by the transport step 110, in which the carriage 18 is transported from the first location 15 to the second location 17.

[0179] The fourth embodiment then comprises a step of unloading from the carriage 18 each subassembly 16 of electronic cards 12 into the second location 17.

Claims

1.

2.

3. Claims Method (100) for handling a set of electronic cards (12) between a trolley (18) and an industrial control system (13) comprising one or more cabinets (14), the system (13) being configured to receive at least one subset (16) of electronic cards (12), the trolley (18) comprising at least one trolley housing (24) configured to receive said subset (16) of electronic cards (12), the method comprising at least the following steps: - transfer of each subset (16) of electronic cards (12) between the corresponding carriage housing (24) and the system (13), the transfer being carried out in a first location (15); - transporting the carriage (18) between the first location (15) and a second location (17); and - loading into or unloading from the carriage (18) each subassembly (16) of electronic cards (12) into the second location (17); and wherein at least one of the cabinets (14) comprises at least one cabinet housing (20), each cabinet housing (20) being configured to receive one of the sub-assemblies (16) of electronic cards (12), each sub-assembly (16) of electronic cards (12) comprising electronic cards (12) arranged in a particular arrangement, or wherein the system (13) comprises a plurality of cabinets (14), each cabinet (14) receiving at least one electronic card (12), each subset (16) of electronic cards (12) comprising one of the electronic cards (12) of each cabinet (14). Method (100) according to claim 1, wherein in each carriage housing (24), the electronic cards (12) are arranged vertically. Method (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least or each subset (16) of electronic cards (12) comprises several identical electronic cards (12) each received in a respective cabinet (14) among a plurality of cabinets (14) of the system (13).

4. Method (100) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a further step, in which the electronic cards (12) are placed in the carriage (18), the placing comprising the arrangement of each subset (16) of electronic cards (12) on the corresponding carriage housing (24), the placing being carried out in the second location (17); the placing step being followed by the transporting step, in which the carriage (18) is transported from the second location (17) to the first location (15), the transporting step being followed by the transferring step, in which each subset (16) of electronic cards (12) is transferred from one of the carriage housing (24) corresponding to the system (13).

5. The method (100) of claim 4, wherein each electronic card (12) comprises an identification marker (32); during the placing step, the identification marker (32) of each electronic card (12) is scanned.

6. A method (100) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the step of transporting from the second location (17) to the first location (15) comprises an additional sub-step (103, 104), wherein the carriage (18) is transported to a third location comprising a certification cabinet, the certification cabinet comprising at least one certification housing, each subset (16) of electronic cards (12) being transferred from the corresponding carriage housing (24) to the corresponding certification housing, and then from the certification housing to the carriage housing (24).

7. Method (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the transferring step comprises transferring each subset (16) of electronic cards (12) of the system (13) to the corresponding carriage housing (24), the transferring step being followed by the transporting step, in which the carriage (18) is transported from the first location (15) to the second location (17).

8. A method (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the transporting step comprises a further sub-step (105, 106), wherein the trolley (18) is transported to a fourth location, in which the trolley (18) is stored for a predetermined period of time.

9. A method (100) according to any preceding claim, wherein the carriage (18) comprises a mechanism (28) for adjusting the height (H) of the carriage housings (24), the method (100) comprising a further step of adjusting the height (H) of the carriage housings (24).

10. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the carriage (18) comprises a mechanism (34) for adjusting the position of said carriage (18), the method (100) comprising a further step before the transfer step in which the position of the carriage (18) is adjusted according to the position of the system (13).

11. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an additional step of providing removable blocks (30), each block (30) receiving one of the subsets (16) of electronic cards (12).

12. Method (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second location (17) is located on a production and / or handling site for electronic cards and / or the first location (15) is located on a nuclear industrial site, in particular a nuclear power plant for producing electricity.

13. An assembly for handling a set of electronic cards (12) comprising: - an industrial control system (13), the system (13) being configured to receive at least one subset (16) of electronic cards (12), and - a carriage (18) comprising at least one carriage housing (24), each carriage housing (24) being configured to receive one of the subsets (16) of electronic cards (12); and wherein the system (13) comprises a cabinet (14) comprising at least one cabinet housing (20), each cabinet housing (20) being configured to receive one of the subsets (16) of electronic cards (12), each subset (16) of electronic cards (12) comprising electronic cards (12) arranged in a particular arrangement;or wherein the system (13) comprises a plurality of cabinets (14), each cabinet (14) receiving at least one electronic card (12), each subset (16) of electronic cards (12) comprising one of the electronic cards (12) of each cabinet (14).;

14. An assembly (10) according to claim 13, wherein the carriage (18) comprises: - at least one carriage housing (24), each carriage housing (24) being configured to receive a subassembly (16) of electronic cards (12); and - an adjustment mechanism (28) of the height (H) of the carriage housings (24) configured to adjust the height (H) of at least one of the carriage housings (24).

15. An assembly (10) according to claim 14, wherein the carriage (18) is provided with wheels (36) and a suspension device (38) interposed between the carriage (18) and the wheels (36).

16. An assembly (10) according to claim 14 or 15, wherein the carriage (18) comprises an adjustment mechanism (34) configured for adjusting the height of said carriage (18).

17. An assembly (10) according to one of claims 14 to 16, wherein the cart (18) comprises at least one storage space (50) configured to receive documentation on the electronic cards (12) received in each cart housing (14).

18. An assembly (10) according to one of claims 14 to 17, wherein the carriage (18) comprises a retractable stabilizing device (52) capable of being deployed to maintain the carriage (18) in a fixed position and retracted to allow movement of the carriage (18).

19. Assembly (10) according to one of claims 14 to 18, in which the carriage (18) comprises a door (56) movable between an open position and a closed position, the door comprising at least one locking device (58) in position of the electronic cards (12) in the corresponding carriage housing (24) when the door (56) is in the closed position.

20. Assembly (10) according to any one of claims 13 to 19, comprising at least one removable block (30), each block (30) receiving one of the sub-assemblies (16) of electronic cards (12).

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