SET OF INFORMATION SIGNALS DIRECTED TOWARDS THE INNER AND OUTER SIDES OF A DOOR LEAF, DOOR AND CORRESPONDING TRANSPORT VEHICLE

Abstract

INFORMATION SIGNAL ASSEMBLY DIRECTED TOWARDS THE INNER AND OUTER SIDES OF A DOOR LEAF, DOOR, AND CORRESPONDING TRANSPORT VEHICLE. This signaling assembly (1, 2, 50, 55) comprises a light seal (2) which includes a seal body (20) made of opaque material and two separate light diffusers (30, 40), as well as two separate lighting elements (50, 55), each of which cooperates with a respective diffuser, so as to direct light respectively towards the inside and outside of said door. According to the invention, the light diffusers are integral with the seal body, while each lighting element is positioned against a longitudinal region of the door, so as to emit light in the direction of its respective diffuser. The invention eliminates any risk of these diffusers being torn off, while ensuring great ease of maintenance, particularly in the replacement of the various components.The invention also provides excellent protection for the lighting elements against potential overheating, while also protecting them against impacts along an axis perpendicular to the plane of the door leaf. Figure 2.

Description

Title of the invention: INFORMATION SIGNAL SYSTEM DIRECTED TO THE SIDES INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF A DOOR LEAF, DOOR AND CORRESPONDING TRANSPORT VEHICLE Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of access doors to a transport vehicle. These access doors can first of all refer to doors belonging to transport vehicles, in particular trains, trams, subways, trolleybuses or buses. For the purposes of the invention, these access doors also refer to so-called platform screen doors, also known as platform screen doors.

[0002] The invention relates more specifically to such a door which includes means for signaling to travelers information regarding the open and / or closed status of this door. The invention relates in particular to a sliding door leaf, but also has application to other types of leaves, especially those equipping sliding swing doors. The invention relates to doors that can be equipped with either a single leaf or two leaves. State of the art

[0003] When a transport vehicle stops, its doors open and then close to allow passengers to board or alight. If the platform is equipped with platform screen doors, these also open and close. During these operations, incidents may occur. These include the possibility of a passenger, object, or animal becoming trapped, or a technical problem preventing the door from moving normally.

[0004] It is understood that these incidents are detrimental to the normal operation of the vehicle for several reasons. For example, they are likely to damage objects caught in the door. Furthermore, and more critically, they can cause injuries to passengers, resulting in liability for the transport company. Finally, these incidents are likely to cause significant delays to the vehicle.

[0005] In order to avoid this type of incident as far as possible, it has been proposed to equip the doors with visual signaling devices. Typically, these devices are intended to provide passengers with information regarding the door's open status. In particular, they can indicate whether the door is closing, whether it is currently being opened, or if it is closed. In this way, passenger safety is preserved, while reducing the risk of vehicle delays.

[0006] Constructively, it has been proposed to use light-emitting diodes (or LEDs). A first solution, known from document WO 2011 / 138292, involves fixing these diodes directly onto the outer face of the door leaf.

[0007] Furthermore, it is known from FR 3 055 348 to place the aforementioned diodes on the edge of the door leaf, near translucent seals. Typically, these seals are fixed by elastic snap-fit ​​into a profile extending along a vertical edge of the door leaf. The diodes are then positioned against the bottom of the housing, which is designed to receive a corresponding seal.

[0008] See also WO 2019 234 332, which describes a set of signaling devices comprising a joint formed of two distinct regions. The first of these regions, called the attachment region, is made of an opaque material, while the other region, called the lighting region, is made of a translucent material. In a preferred embodiment, these regions are co-extruded. A light source, fixed to the door leaf, emits light perpendicular to the plane of the door leaf. This light is reflected at the interface between the aforementioned regions so as to direct the light parallel to the plane of the door leaf, thus providing the desired signaling.

[0009] The present invention aims more particularly to develop an assembly for independently signaling information towards the inside and / or outside of the door to which it is attached. In this regard, EP 3 630 515, which constitutes the closest prior art to the invention, is known, for a seal comprising, firstly, a body made of an opaque material. This body receives two inserts, each of which is formed by a strip of material that is at least partially transparent, as well as a light source integrated into this strip. The inserts are mounted on the body in a removable manner, in particular by elastic snap-fitting. In operation, the light sources, in particular LEDs, diffuse light independently. This makes it possible to signal different information towards the inside or outside of the door leaf.

[0010] The above solution, presented in EP 3 630 515, has certain drawbacks. The seal described in this document consists of a body and removable inserts. This design weakens the entire seal, as the inserts are susceptible to being torn off, either accidentally or through vandalism. Furthermore, this seal has a relatively high cost. The light sources incorporated into the inserts are also subject to impacts during operation. Finally, the positioning of these light sources does not allow optimal dissipation of the heat generated when these sources are activated.

[0011] In view of the foregoing, one objective of the present invention is to remedy, at least partially, the disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above.

[0012] Another objective of the invention is to provide an assembly which, while ensuring reliable signaling of information independently to the inside and / or outside of a leaf, has an improved lifespan compared to the prior art.

[0013] Another objective of the invention is to offer such a signaling system whose cost price is lower or, at the very least, similar to that of the prior art.

[0014] Another objective of the invention is to propose such a signaling assembly, which allows reliable dissipation of heat from the light source.

[0015] Another objective of the invention is to propose such a signaling assembly, the assembly of which is facilitated compared to the prior art. Objects of the invention

[0016] At least one of the above objectives is achieved by means of a first principal object of the invention, namely a signaling assembly (1, 2, 50, 55; 101, 102, 150; 201, 202, 250, 255) for an access door (1000; 2000) to a railway transport vehicle, said door comprising a frame (80; 280) and at least one leaf (60, 70; 260) movable relative to this frame, said signaling assembly comprising

[0017] - a so-called luminous joint (2; 102; 202), which joint comprises

[0018] a sealing body (20; 220) made of an opaque material, which is equipped with means (24; 224) for attaching to the door,

[0019] as well as two mutually distinct light diffusers (30, 40; 130; 230, 240) carried by the joint body, the diffusers advantageously being made of a translucent material, in particular transparent, in particular silicone,

[0020] - two mutually distinct lighting elements (50, 55; 150; 250, 255), of which Each unit cooperates with a respective diffuser, so as to direct light respectively inwards and outwards from said door

[0021] characterized in that

[0022] - the light diffusers (30, 40; 130; 230, 240) are made in one piece with the joint body (20; 220); and

[0023] - each lighting element (50, 55; 150; 250, 255) is located against a region respective longitudinal (11,12 ; 111 ; 211,212) of the door, so as to emit light in the direction of a respective diffuser.

[0024] A second principal object of the invention is a signaling assembly (301, 302, 350) for an access door (3000) to a transport vehicle railway, said door comprising a frame and at least one leaf (360,370) movable relative to this frame, said signalling assembly comprising

[0025] - a so-called luminous seal (302), which seal comprises

[0026] a gasket body (320) made of an opaque material, which is equipped with means (324) for attaching to the door,

[0027] as well as a single light diffuser (330) made in one piece with the joint body, this diffuser advantageously being made of a translucent material, in particular transparent, in particular silicone,

[0028] - a single lighting element (350) located against a longitudinal region (311) respective to the door, this lighting device emits light towards the diffuser, so as to direct light only towards the inside or outside of said door.

[0029] Signaling assemblies, conforming respectively to this first object of the invention and this second object of the invention, may include the following additional features, individually or in any technically compatible combinations. The term "each" appears in the wording of these features, meaning "the" or "each":

[0030] - each lighting element (50, 55; 250, 255) is fixed on said longitudinal region (11,12 ; 211,212), called longitudinal mounting region.

[0031] - each diffuser is arranged on a lateral side of the joint body

[0032] - This assembly includes fastening means, allowing each to be fixed lighting element (50, 55; 250, 255) on each longitudinal mounting region, knowing that said fixing means include in particular removable fixing means, in particular by screwing, or fixing means by gluing, or fixing means by cooperation of forms, in particular a slide with which the mounting wing is equipped, having retaining edges for the lighting element.

[0033] - each lighting element (150) is mounted removably relative to a respective diffuser (130), being advantageously pressed against the longitudinal region thanks to the elasticity of this diffuser.

[0034] - each lighting element (150) is mounted by elastic snap-fit ​​into a recess (139) of the diffuser (130), this recess being advantageously open along a transverse direction.

[0035] - each diffuser (30) comprises a first surface (36), enabling the capture of the light from a respective lighting device (50), as well as a second surface called a light diffusion surface (38), these surfaces being advantageously parallel.

[0036] - each lighting element (50, 55; 150; 250, 255) is adapted to emit the light towards a respective diffuser, in a generally perpendicular to the main direction (X60) of the leaf, said second surface (38) advantageously flush with the side (28, 29) of the joint body (20).

[0037] - this signaling assembly further comprises a profile (1; 101; 201) intended to extend over at least part of the periphery of the door body, said profile defining a housing (14; 114; 214) in which the seal is partially received, said longitudinal region being formed by a longitudinal wing of the profile.

[0038] - the first surface (36) is located inside the housing of the profile, while the second surface (38) is located outside the dwelling.

[0039] - the profile has ribs (16, 17) for attaching the light seal (2), each lighting element (50, 55) being placed in front of these attachment ribs, that is to say between these ribs and the free end of each longitudinal region (11, 12).

[0040] - each lighting element is integrated into the overall volume of the profile (1), of in order to protect each lighting component (50, 55) against shocks exerted along an axis perpendicular to the main plane of the door.

[0041] - said longitudinal region is a longitudinal region (11,12; 111) of the leaf (60).

[0042] - said longitudinal region is a longitudinal region (211,212) of the sleeper (280).

[0043] - each lighting unit (50, 55) comprises a support and lighting elements mounted on this support, the said lighting elements being in particular of the light-emitting diode type, the support of the lighting element being in particular elongated in shape and, preferably, having longitudinal dimensions close to those of the longitudinal mounting region of the profile.

[0044] - the joint body and each light diffuser are co-extruded.

[0045] - in the case where the assembly comprises two lighting elements, these two elements lighting (50, 55; 150; 250, 255) are mutually different.

[0046] The invention also relates to a leaf, in particular a curved leaf, intended to equip an access door to a transport vehicle, in particular a railway, said leaf further comprising at least one signaling assembly according to the first main object or the second main object above.

[0047] This leaf may further comprise a body (62, 72) and a frame (66, 76) extending over at least a part of the periphery of said body, said frame comprising at least one profile (1, 1') defining a housing (13) open opposite said body, said leaf further comprising at least one signaling assembly according to the first principal object or the second principal object above, the attachment means (24) of the seal being received at least in part in said housing.

[0048] The invention also relates to an access door (1000; 2000) to a transport vehicle, in particular of the type train, tram, metro or trolleybus or bus, in particular door of said transport vehicle, or landing door for dock of said transport vehicle, said door comprising a frame (80; 280) integral with the frame of said vehicle, or integral with said dock, as well as at least one signaling assembly according to the first principal object or the second principal object above and / or at least one leaf (60, 70) above, mounted movable in relation to said frame.

[0049] Advantageously, this door includes a control plate (9), and two independent control lines (90, 91), each of which connects the control plate with a respective lighting element.

[0050] Advantageously, according to an alternative arrangement of the invention, the light seal belongs to the door frame, this light seal cooperating with the front edge (261) of the single door leaf, said light seal (202) belonging to the door frame (280) being in particular a female seal, which includes a cavity (221) adapted to receive a protrusion (221') belonging to a male seal (202') equipping said single leaf.

[0051] The invention also relates to a transport vehicle, in particular of the type train, tram, metro, bus or trolleybus, comprising at least one door as defined above.

[0052] The invention also relates to a stopping platform for a transport vehicle, in particular of the type train, tram, metro, bus or trolleybus, comprising at least one door as defined above. Description of the figures

[0053] The invention will be described below, with reference to the accompanying drawings, given solely by way of non-limiting examples, in which:

[0054] [Fig-1] is a schematic front view, illustrating a transport vehicle door each leaf of which is equipped with a signaling system according to a first embodiment conforming to a first object of the invention.

[0055] [Fig.2] is a larger scale top cross-sectional view along line II-II in [Fig.1], illustrating a joint and a profile belonging to the signaling assembly according to the invention.

[0056] [Fig.3] is a top view, on an even larger scale, illustrating the operation of a lighting device and a light diffuser, belonging to the signaling assembly according to the invention.

[0057] [Fig.4] is a schematic view, illustrating the vehicle control board and its functional links with the signaling assembly according to the invention.

[0058] [Fig.5] is a schematic view, analogous to [Fig.4], illustrating a first functional configuration of the signaling assembly according to the invention.

[0059] [Fig.6] is a schematic view, analogous to [Fig.5], illustrating a second functional configuration of the signaling assembly according to the invention.

[0060] [Fig.7] is a schematic view, analogous to [Fig.5], illustrating a third functional configuration of the signaling assembly according to the invention.

[0061] [Fig.8] is a schematic front view, illustrating the installation along the direction vertical of the different constituent elements of the signaling assembly according to the invention.

[0062] [Fig.9] is a top cross-sectional view, analogous to [Fig.3], illustrating a variant implementation of the entire signage system in accordance with the first embodiment.

[0063] [Fig. 10] is a schematic front view, analogous to [Fig. 8], illustrating the positioning of a signaling assembly according to a second embodiment conforming to the first object of the invention.

[0064] [Fig.11] is a top cross-sectional view along line XI-XI in [Fig.10], illustrating in more detail the signaling system of [Fig. 10].

[0065] [Fig. 12] is a top cross-sectional view, analogous to [Fig. 2], illustrating a joint and a profile belonging to a signaling assembly conforming to a second object of the invention. Detailed description of the invention

[0066] The attached [Fig. 1] illustrates a door, designated as a whole by reference numeral I, fitted to a transport vehicle. This door typically comprises an opening formed by two leaves 60 and 70, and a frame 80 shown schematically, which is positioned around the periphery of an opening 85 in the body of the vehicle. This door can be fitted with two leaves, as in the illustrated example, but also with a single leaf.

[0067] In the illustrated example, the door is fitted to a metro-type train. However, the invention is applicable to doors intended for other transport vehicles, such as trams, trolleybuses, or trains other than the one mentioned above. In what follows, the door leaves are assumed to be vertical, particularly with reference to [Fig. 1]. Furthermore, the terms "interior" and "exterior" are used with reference to the body of this transport vehicle. Finally, for each leaf, the terms "front" and "rear" are conventionally used, it being understood that the front edges of the two leaves face each other. The various terms above are represented by the double arrows in [Fig. 2], and are referenced as INT, EXT, AV, and AR.

[0068] The invention relates more particularly, but not exclusively, to a 60 or 70 curved door leaf. As is known, this means that the door leaf is curved when viewed along its longitudinal direction X60, which corresponds to the direction of travel of the vehicle. railway. Typically, the part located halfway up the leaf protrudes outwards, relative to the upper and lower parts of that leaf respectively.

[0069] Each leaf 60, 70 comprises, in a known manner, a central body 62, 72 equipped in particular with a pane of glass 63, 73 and an operating mechanism 64, 74, for example of the push-button type. This body is typically formed of two opposing faces, respectively inner and outer, as well as a core interposed between these faces. Furthermore, a frame 66, 76 extends around the outer periphery of this body. This frame includes in particular a profile 1, which is of a type known per se, provided on the vertical edges of the body.

[0070] We will now describe, with reference in particular to [Fig. 2], a signaling assembly according to the invention. This assembly essentially comprises:

[0071] - the profile 1 mentioned above, as well as:

[0072] - a seal 2, called luminous;

[0073] - two lighting elements 50 and 55.

[0074] We will describe the structure of the profile 1 equipping the leaf 60, it being understood that the other leaf 70 has a profile 1' of identical structure, illustrated very schematically in Figures 1 and 2. The profile 1 comprises a web 10, as well as two flanges 11 and 12 forming longitudinal regions, respectively external and internal, of the leaf, in that they extend parallel to the direction X60 above. This web and these two flanges define a housing 13 substantially U-shaped, open on the opposite side of this body. Two ribs 16 and 17 project outwards from each other, from a respective wing, so as to delimit a chamber 14. As will be seen below, these ribs provide a function for attaching the seal 2. Finally, each wing is covered, at least in part, by a respective sheet 18 and 19, forming the inner and outer walls of the leaf.

[0075] The luminous seal 2, of the male type in the illustrated example, comprises first of all a body 20 made of an opaque material, for example an elastomer such as black silicone. This body has a front base 22, which is designed to protrude from the housing. This base is equipped with a protrusion 21 designed to come close to the walls of a cavity 21', formed in the opposite female seal 2', which is partially illustrated in [Fig. 2]. Advantageously, this female seal 2' is also luminous, that is to say, it has a structure analogous to that of the seal 2 described herein. As a less preferred variant, it can be imagined that this other seal 2' is of the conventional type, for example, being made entirely of an opaque material.

[0076] The protrusion 21 is hollowed out to allow, in a manner known per se, the reception of a sensitive edge (not shown). This edge is part of a system (also not shown) that detects an object wedged between the male and female parts. of the seal when the door is closed and the leaves come into contact with each other. Finally, the base 20 is provided with sealing lips 23, also conventional, designed to bear against the face opposite the female seal 2'.

[0077] The base 22 extends rearward by means of a thinner strip 23, of smaller cross-section, which extends into the housing 13. This strip 23 is terminated, opposite the base, by a heel 24. The latter is received in the chamber 14 in order to ensure, in a manner known per se, the anchoring of the seal 2 on the leaf 60.

[0078] The seal 2 further comprises two light diffusers, or light guides 30 and 40. Unlike the body 20, these diffusers are made of a transparent, or at least translucent, material, such as transparent silicone. The diffusers 30 and 40 are designated as outer and inner, in that they are located on the outer and inner sides of the seal body, respectively.

[0079] More precisely, each diffuser is generally L-shaped, being formed by two sections 32, 42 and 34, 44. The first section 32, 42 extends along the median band 23, thus being included within the housing 13. Furthermore, the second section 34, 44, generally perpendicular to the first section, extends against the rear edge of the base. This second section therefore projects forward, outside the housing 13. Preferably, the free end of sections 34, 44 is flush with the outer 28 and inner 29 sides of the base 22, respectively.

[0080] According to the invention, the diffusers are formed as a single unit with the body 20. In other words, the bond between the body and the diffusers is permanent, for example, obtained using the known coextrusion process. As a less preferred alternative, other types of permanent bonding could be imagined, such as adhesive bonding.

[0081] Each lighting element, such as the one 50 shown in [Fig. 3], comprises first of all an elongated body 51 forming a support. This body is made of a material that provides it with sufficient mechanical strength, so that it can be fixed against a respective longitudinal flange of the profile. Typically, this body is formed by a PCB (Printed Circuit Board), of a type known per se and advantageously flexible. This body is equipped with a plurality of lighting elements which, in the illustrated example, are longitudinally spaced light-emitting diodes, one of which 52 is shown schematically. As an alternative not shown, the light source may be of a different type, such as a diffusing optical fiber.

[0082] Each lighting element, both 50 and 55, is capable of emitting different colors according to the operator's choice. Typically, a given lighting element can thus comprise several sets of light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, of different colors. For example, one might plan Red LEDs, combined with green and yellow LEDs. An RGB (Red Green Blue) LED set is also possible.

[0083] According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the lighting elements 50 and 55 can be mutually different, in that they can signal different types of information. This means that at least one of the following parameters differs between the two lighting elements: nature of the lighting elements, number of these lighting elements, power of these lighting elements, color of the light that can be emitted by the lighting elements, possibility of flashing... It should be noted that, in operation, the internal and external signaling lights can also be identical.

[0084] Each lighting element 50, 55 is fixed to the so-called inner face of the wing 11, 12, that is to say, the face of the latter which faces the opposite wing 12, 11. Each element is mounted on its respective wing by means of fastening means, which may be used alone or in combination. In the example described, one or two holes (not shown) may be provided, in particular on at least one of the longitudinal ends of the body, so as to allow each body 50, 55 to be screwed onto the respective wing 11, 12. As an alternative (not shown), the body 50 may also be provided that it is glued against the opposite face of this wing 11.

[0085] In the above description, with reference to Figures 2 and 3, it was specified that the leaf 60 conforms to the invention in that it is equipped with lighting elements 50, 55 and diffusers 30 and 40. Advantageously, the other leaf 70 also conforms to the invention, namely that it too is equipped with lighting elements and diffusers, analogous respectively to those 50 and 55, and 30 and 40. As an alternative, though less preferred, it can be provided that this other leaf is of the conventional type, namely that it lacks a light seal such as that 2 equipping the leaf 60.

[0086] The seal 2 extends over at least a substantial portion of the height H60 of the leaf 60 and, as schematically shown in [Fig. 8], preferably over substantially this entire height. It can be envisaged, though not shown, that the lighting elements 50 and 55 also extend over the entire height of the leaf. However, with reference to [Fig. 8], the lighting elements may extend over only a portion of the height H2 of the seal.

[0087] Thus, in this spirit, the lower end 53, 58 of these lighting elements can be separated from the lower end of the seal by a height H53, for example, close to 50 cm. Furthermore, the upper end 54, 59 of the lighting elements can be provided at a height H54, for example, close to 2 meters, which is less than the total height of the door leaf. This embodiment makes it possible to reduce costs inherent to the manufacture of lighting components, since the latter are present only at human height, that is to say in the area where they are most visible to users.

[0088] The joint segment(s), which are not equipped with lighting elements, may to be made entirely of a black, opaque material. Alternatively, these unequipped segments could have a structure similar to that described in Figure 2, namely a body combined with two co-extruded parts that do not provide any light-diffusing function. This allows for a single joint geometry along its entire height.

[0089] With reference to [Fig. 4], control lines 92 and 97 connect each lighting element 50, 55 with the main control board 9 for the door. These lines allow control of each set of diodes 52 and 57, described above with reference to Figures 2 and 3. According to the invention, these diodes can be controlled independently. In other words, the first line 92 can control either the switching on or the switching off of the diodes 52, while the second line 97 can independently control either the switching on or the switching off of the diodes 57.

[0090] The operation of the signaling assembly according to the invention will now be described, in particular with reference to [Fig. 3]. In the latter, which is a partial and larger-scale view of [Fig. 2], only the cooperation between the lighting element 50 and the diffuser 30 has been illustrated. It should be understood that the other lighting element 55 and the other diffuser 40 cooperate mutually in a similar manner.

[0091] In operation, the light-emitting diodes 52 equipping the lighting element 50 emit a beam of light along arrow F50, that is to say, generally perpendicular to the direction X60. This light is captured at a first surface 36, belonging to the rear section 32 opposite the diffuser 30. The light is then directed towards the front of this diffuser, along arrow F34, in the direction of the other section 34. Finally, this light is diffused, along arrow F30, at a second surface 38, belonging to the front section 34. Just like the emission of light by the lighting element 50, this diffusion of light is carried out in a manner generally perpendicular to the direction X60.

[0092] As can be seen from the above, the light is guided along the diffuser 30, undergoing a change of direction of approximately 180°. In other words, the first surface 36 of the diffuser is globally parallel to its second surface 38, these surfaces being themselves parallel to the main direction X60 of the leaf.

[0093] Figures 5 to 7 illustrate different functional configurations of the signaling assembly according to the invention. In [Fig. 5], the circuit board 9 controls the simultaneous activation, via lines 92 and 97, of the lighting elements 50 and 55. Consequently Light signaling is emitted both inwards and outwards from the leaf, thanks to diffusers 30 and 40, which is materialized by arrows F30 and F40.

[0094] According to one feature of the invention, the aforementioned signals can be of different types. We will now give, by way of example, some vehicle commissioning scenarios for which it is advantageous to provide this type of different signaling.

[0095] First, when a metro train arrives at the last station on a line, a green light can be projected into the train, encouraging passengers to disembark. At the same time, a red light is projected outwards, preventing passengers on the platform from boarding.

[0096] Furthermore, particularly when the vehicle's interior is to be illuminated with a red or green light, the control panel can prevent any emission of this light to the outside when the vehicle is traveling at a speed exceeding a predetermined threshold, for example, 8 km / h. This measure eliminates any confusion that could lead to a safety issue. In particular, it prevents the driver of another vehicle from mistaking this light for a traffic light located at the edge of the road.

[0097] Furthermore, it can be envisaged that the signaling assembly according to the invention emits differentiated information, respectively inwards and outwards, during door maintenance phases. Under these conditions, depending in particular on the color of the emitted light, the seal is capable of providing information on the operating status of the door.

[0098] Finally, it is particularly advantageous to implement different interior and exterior lighting systems during a vehicle upgrade. If the vehicle is originally equipped with a conventional door without a light seal, it is common for the vehicle to have signage located outside the door area. This signage, which may include, for example, neon lights or an electrical panel, directs light information primarily towards the interior of the vehicle.

[0099] If a door equipped with a signaling system according to the invention is installed in place of the original conventional door, it is advantageous for this system to direct light signals outwards. Indeed, any additional signals directed inwards could be combined with the pre-existing signage and thus create confusion for both users and vehicle operators. Therefore, the signaling system according to the invention is controlled so that it does not emit any light signals inwards during normal operation, except in predefined emergency situations such as a general breakdown or the occurrence of a hazard.

[0100] In [Fig. 6], the control plate 9 activates the lighting element 50 only via line 92. Consequently, the light signal is emitted only outwards from the door leaf by means of the diffuser 30, as indicated by arrow F30. Finally, in [Fig. 7], the control plate 9 activates the lighting element 55 only via line 97. Consequently, the light signal is emitted only inwards from the door leaf by means of the diffuser 40, as indicated by arrow F40.

[0101] Figure 9 illustrates a variant of the embodiment shown with reference to Figures 2 to 8. In Figure 9, the mechanical elements analogous to those in Figures 2 to 8 are assigned the same reference numbers, plus 100. The variant in Figure 9 differs from the arrangement described in Figures 2 to 8, in particular in that the lighting element 150 is not fixed to the inner face of the wing 111. In Figure 9, only the lighting element 150 is shown, it being understood that this paragraph also applies to the other lighting element not shown.

[0102] Advantageously, the element 150 is embedded in the diffuser. Structurally, this element is held, by elastic snap-fit, against the walls of a recess 139 formed in the diffuser 130. This elastic characteristic also allows the element 150 to be pressed against the wing 111, which makes it possible to dissipate the heat produced by this element thanks to the presence of the wing's constituent material, typically aluminum. This recess 139 is advantageously open in a transverse direction, namely perpendicular to the main axis XI02 of the joint, which allows both the installation and removal of the lighting element 150 to be easy.

[0103] It is also possible to imagine that the lighting element 150, while being integral with the diffuser 130, is not directly attached to the wing 111. In this case, there is a small functional gap, at the location marked by the reference numeral J, between the walls opposite this element and this wing. Given the small size of this gap, it is considered that, in accordance with the invention, the lighting element is located "against" the wing, despite the absence of strict contact. In any event, this possibility is not preferred.

[0104] As is clear from the foregoing, the term "against" encompasses the two main possibilities of the invention. First, it includes the possibility of strict contact between the lighting element and the longitudinal region, in the case where this element is fixed to this region or where it is pressed against it. The term "against" further includes the possibility, described in the preceding paragraph, whereby the lighting element is located in the immediate vicinity of the longitudinal region, with the possibility of a small functional gap.

[0105] With reference to the variant in [Fig.9], it can also be imagined that the lighting element 150 is not received in a recess in the diffuser 130. In this case, due to the elasticity of this diffuser, the lighting element is held by compression between the walls opposite the wing 111 and the aforementioned diffuser.

[0106] Figures 10 and 11 illustrate a second embodiment of the signaling assembly, in accordance with the first principal object of the invention. In these figures 10 and 11, the mechanical elements similar to those in figures 2 to 8 are assigned the same reference numbers, increased by 200.

[0107] This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment shown in Figures 2 to 8, notably in that the door leaf is not fitted with a profile such as that 1 described above. Indeed, the profile 201, similar to that 1, is fitted to the frame 280 of the door II conforming to this second embodiment. Furthermore, the light seal 202, similar to that 2 described above, is received in the recess 213 of the profile 201. Finally, the lighting elements 250 and 255, similar to those 50 and 55 above, are placed against the flanges 211 and 212 of the profile 201.

[0108] As shown in particular in [Fig. 10], the profile 201 and the light seal 202 are advantageously positioned opposite the front edge 261 of the leaf 260. Consequently, the door II advantageously comprises a single leaf 260, the rear edge 262 of which slides in a manner known per se within a sleeve (not shown) of this door. This arrangement allows for convenient mounting without substantial modification of the usual door components, while ensuring reliable signaling to the inside and / or outside of the vehicle.

[0109] With further reference to [Fig. 11], the light seal 202 fitted to the frame 280 cooperates with a corresponding seal 202' fitted to the front edge of the sash. Preferably, this other seal 202' is also of the light type, although it may be of the conventional type. Preferably, the seal 202 of the frame has a cavity 221 cooperating with a protrusion 221' of the seal 202' belonging to the sash, as shown in [Fig. 11]. However, as an alternative (not shown), the positioning of the male and female ends can be reversed. Alternatively, two identical light seals, according to the invention, can be used in a so-called "head-to-tail" position.

[0110] The signaling assembly, according to the invention, has many advantages compared to the prior art.

[0111] It should be noted that the teaching of EP 3 630 515, which constitutes the prior art closest to the invention, explicitly provides for the light diffusers to be mounted removably on the gasket body. In contrast, according to the invention, these diffusers are integral with the gasket body, that is to say, they are permanently fixed to it. This overcomes the drawbacks of the solution described in EP 3,630,515, in particular in that the invention eliminates any risk of these diffusers being torn off.

[0112] Furthermore, the invention ensures ease of maintenance, particularly in the replacement of the various components. Indeed, the lighting elements are either independent of the diffusers or mounted in a removable manner relative to these diffusers. Consequently, operators can easily replace all or part of the seals if they are damaged or have reached the end of their maximum service life. In particular, this operation does not require changing the lighting elements or the connectors.

[0113] It should also be noted that the invention provides excellent protection for the lighting elements against potential overheating. This is because they are advantageously in contact with, or at the very least in the immediate vicinity of, components typically made of aluminum. This allows for reliable heat dissipation and, consequently, extends the lifespan of the lighting elements.

[0114] Furthermore, according to an advantageous feature of the invention, the lighting means are integrated into the overall internal volume of the profile. In other words, these lighting means do not protrude forward from the profile in the horizontal direction. This protects the lighting means from impacts exerted along an axis perpendicular to the main plane of the door leaf. In this respect, it should be noted that the solution proposed by EP 3 630 515 is not satisfactory in this regard, since it provides for placing these lighting means protruding from the joint's attachment profile.

[0115] Finally, the invention makes it possible to preserve the mechanical integrity of the lighting means, particularly in the case of a curved door leaf. In this respect, the deformation of the lighting element along the curve of the leaf occurs in a direction that does not damage the light-emitting diodes. Any risk of breakage that could occur at the welds is therefore essentially eliminated.

[0116] The invention is not limited to the examples described and illustrated. Thus, in the three embodiments above, the longitudinal region of the door, to which the lighting means are attached, is formed by a longitudinal flange of the profile. However, as an alternative not shown, this longitudinal attachment region may be provided for

[0117] for example constituted by the end of the sheet 18, illustrated in particular on [Fig.2],

[0118] Figure 12 illustrates a signaling assembly conforming to a second main object of the invention, which equips a door 3000. On this Figure 12, the mechanical elements analogous to those of Figures 2 to 8 are assigned the same reference numbers, increased by 300.

[0119] The signaling assembly of this [Fig. 12] differs from that of Figures 2 to 8, in particular in that it is equipped with a single diffuser 330. This diffuser is advantageously fixed by co-extrusion against one lateral side of the gasket body 320, in this case the outer side. Conversely, the opposite lateral side of this gasket body, in this case the inner side, is not equipped with such a diffuser. Consequently, on this inner side, the gasket body has larger transverse dimensions, extending into the vicinity of the wing 312.

[0120] The structure and operation of the single diffuser 330 are analogous to that described above, with reference to the diffuser 30 of [Fig. 3]. In operation, the lighting element 350 emits light in the direction of arrow F350, which is guided by the diffuser and then directed outwards from the vehicle in the direction of arrow F330.

[0121] This signaling assembly, formed by the profile 301, the seal 302 equipped with its single diffuser 330, and the lighting element 350, offers specific advantages. It is thus particularly well-suited to the case of vehicle modernization or upgrade described above. As previously mentioned, the original door can be replaced with a door equipped with a signaling assembly according to the first object of the invention, which is provided with two diffusers such as those 30 and 40.

[0122] Alternatively, this initial door can also be replaced by a door equipped with the signaling system shown in [Fig. 12], that is, according to the second object of the invention. In this case, the single diffuser is located on the exterior side, it being understood that no signaling will be directed into the vehicle. In other words, the operator chooses to use, for interior use, only the pre-existing signage mentioned above, including, in particular, electrical panels or neon signs.

Claims

Demands

1. Signaling assembly (1, 2, 50, 55; 101, 102, 150; 201, 202, 250, 255) for an access door (I; II) to a railway transport vehicle, said door comprising a frame (80; 280) and at least one leaf (60, 70; 260) movable relative to this frame, said signaling assembly comprising - a so-called luminous seal (2; 102; 202), which seal has a seal body (20; 220) made of an opaque material, which is equipped with means (24; 224) for attaching to the door, as well as two mutually distinct light diffusers (30, 40; 130; 230, 240) carried by the seal body, the diffusers advantageously being made of a translucent material, in particular transparent, in particular in silicone, - two lighting elements (50, 55; 150;250, 255) mutually distinct, each of which cooperates with a respective diffuser, so as to direct light respectively towards the inside and outside of said door characterized in that - the light diffusers (30, 40; 130; 230, 240) are made as a single unit with the joint body (20; 220), the connection between the joint body and the light diffusers being of a permanent type; and - each lighting element (50, 55; 150; 250, 255) is situated against a respective longitudinal region (11, 12; 111; 211, 212) of the door, so as to emit light in the direction of a respective diffuser.;

2. Signaling assembly according to the preceding claim, wherein each lighting element (50, 55; 250, 255) is fixed on said longitudinal region (11,12; 211,212), said longitudinal mounting region.

3. Signaling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each lighting element (150) is mounted removably relative to a respective diffuser (130), advantageously being pressed against the longitudinal region, thanks to the elasticity of this diffuser.

4. A signaling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each diffuser (30) comprises a first surface (36) for capturing light from a respective lighting element (50), as well as a second surface called a light diffusion surface (38), these surfaces being advantageously parallel.

5. Signaling assembly according to claim 4, wherein each lighting element (50, 55; 150; 250, 255) is adapted to emit light in the direction of a respective diffuser, in a direction generally perpendicular to the main direction (X60) of the leaf, said second surface (38) advantageously flush with the side (28, 29) of the joint body (20).

6. Signaling assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein this signaling assembly further comprises a profile (1; 101; 201) intended to extend over at least a part of the periphery of the door body, said profile defining a housing (14; 114; 214) in which the seal is partially received, said longitudinal region being formed by a longitudinal wing of the profile.

7. Signaling assembly according to claim 6, taken in combination with claim 4 or 5, wherein the first surface (36) is located inside the housing of the profile, while the second surface (38) is located outside the housing.

8. Signaling assembly according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the profile has ribs (16, 17) for attaching the light joint (2), each lighting element (50, 55) being placed in front of these attachment ribs, i.e. between these ribs and the free end of each longitudinal region (11, 12).

9. Signaling assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the joint body and each light diffuser are co-extruded.

10. Leaf (60, 70), in particular curved leaf, intended to equip an access door to a transport vehicle, in particular a railway, said leaf further comprising at least one signaling assembly according to one of the preceding claims.

11. A leaf according to the preceding claim, further comprising a body (62, 72) and a frame (66, 76) extending over at least a portion of the periphery of said body, said frame comprising at least one profile (1, 1') defining a housing (13) open opposite said body, said leaf further comprising at least one signaling assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 9, the means the attachment (24) of the joint being received at least in part in said housing.

12. Access door (I; II) to a transport vehicle, in particular of the type train, tram, metro or trolleybus or bus, in particular door of said transport vehicle, or platform door for stop platform of said transport vehicle, said door comprising a frame (80; 280) integral with the frame of said vehicle, or integral with said platform, as well as at least one signaling assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

13. Door according to the preceding claim, comprising a control plate (9), two independent control lines (90, 91), each of which connects the control plate with a respective lighting element.

14. Door according to claim 12 or 13, wherein said light seal belongs to the door frame, said light seal cooperating with the front edge (261) of the single door leaf, said light seal (202) belonging to the door frame (280) being in particular a female seal, which includes a cavity (221) adapted to receive a protrusion (221') belonging to a male seal (202') equipping said single leaf.

15. Transport vehicle, in particular of the type train, tram, metro, bus or trolleybus, comprising at least one door conforming to one of claims 12 to 14.

16. A transport vehicle stopping platform, in particular of the type train, tram, metro, bus or trolleybus, comprising at least one door conforming to one of claims 12 to 14.

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