Deployable skid for elevated work platform

Abstract

A height access device comprising a front base, a rear base and a platform, the front base defining a climbing plane comprising at least one step extending into a space delimited by two longitudinal members, the front base comprising two feet for support on the ground, each foot being provided with a stabilizer (40, 41) movable in rotation between a storage position and a substantially horizontal deployed position for support on the ground, each stabilizer comprising a fixed part (50) and a movable part (51), the fixed part being mounted on a foot of the front base, the movable part being mounted in rotation relative to the fixed part around an axis (54), outside the space delimited by the longitudinal members of the front base, between a deployed position and a folded position, the front base comprising wheels mounted on elastic means,The stabilizers of the front base being at a distance from the ground and the wheels being in contact with the ground as long as a user does not climb onto the board, locking means (52) being suitable for holding the movable part of each stabilizer in the deployed position. Figure 2,

Description

Title of the invention: Deployable skid for elevated work platform

[0001] The invention relates to access devices for working at height, particularly of the platform type.

[0002] The term "platform" refers in particular to mobile ladders with a platform, and more specifically to mobile ladders with a working platform having a maximum surface area of ​​1 m² and a maximum height of 5 m, designed for use by one person at a time. Such platforms are described in standard NF EN 131-7.

[0003] The invention relates in particular to individual rolling platforms (PIR) or individual lightweight rolling platforms (PIRL).

[0004] A mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) is conventionally defined as a safe work platform conforming to standard NF P 93-352. A MEWP is therefore a platform used for work at height, which can be carried and / or handled by a crane in construction work by a single operator, working on a platform at a maximum height of 2.5 m above the ground. MEWPs have a means of movement, a means of immobilization, and a means of access to the workstation. Portable MEWPs have a mass of less than 50 kg and can be folded without separating their components. MEWPs are equipped with two wheels to allow for handling in the closed position. MEWPs have a platform protected on three sides by fall protection devices. These fall protection devices include a toe board extending along three sides of the platform.When the user is at the workstation, the fall protection system includes a guardrail extending to the user's torso height and a lower guardrail extending to the user's leg height. A movable closure for the workstation access is provided. The operator's presence on the platform must not obstruct the closure of the workstation access. When the workstation opens outwards, standard NF P 93-352 stipulates that a locking system for the movable closure is mandatory.

[0005] Document FR2914683 shows an example of PIR.

[0006] A lightweight mobile elevating work platform (MEWP) is conventionally a safe workstation conforming to standard NF P 93-353. A MEWP is therefore a platform used for work at height, which can be carried and / or handled by a crane in construction work by a single operator, working on a platform at a maximum height of 1.5 m above the ground. MEWPs have a means of movement, a means of immobilization, and a Access to the workstation is provided. PIRLs (Personalized Access to the Workstation) weigh less than 50 kg and can be folded without separating their components. PIRLs are equipped with wheels for handling in the closed position. The PIRLs have a platform protected on three sides by fall protection devices. These fall protection devices include a toe board extending along three sides of the platform. When the user is at the workstation, the fall protection devices include a guardrail extending to the user's torso height and a lower guardrail extending to the user's leg height. A movable closure for access to the workstation is provided. The operator's presence on the platform must not obstruct the closure of the access to the workstation.When the workstation opens outwards, the NF P 93-353 standard stipulates that a locking system for the mobile closure is mandatory.

[0007] Document FR3023571 shows an example of PIRL.

[0008] Telescopic stabilizers are known, extending transversely with respect to the plane of ascent, between a retracted transport position of the platform and a deployed ground support position. An example is given in document FR2764320.

[0009] Such a design has drawbacks. In particular, extending the stabilizers requires manual operation. Locking them in the extended position also requires manual operation, most often the actuation of a lever.

[0010] Stabilizers forming crutches, fixedly placed on each of the two longitudinal members of the ramp, are known. Such a design increases the bulk of the step or platform, which may hinder or even prevent its installation or passage through a corridor or doorway.

[0011] Telescopic legs are known in relation to the side members of the climbing platform, the legs being provided, in their lower part, with a projection that extends transversely with respect to the climbing platform. An example is given in document FR2850703.

[0012] Such a design has disadvantages. Firstly, the transversely protruding part for the feet increases the bulk of the step stool or platform, which may hinder or even make it impossible to place it in a corridor or door frame.

[0013] Document FR3121166 describes a height access device comprising a front base, a rear base and a platform, the front base comprising two feet for support on the ground, each foot being provided with a movable stabilizer in rotation between a storage position and a substantially horizontal deployed position for support on the ground, the angle defined between the storage position and the deployed position of each stabilizer of the front base being at least 180°.

[0014] The structure described in document FR3121166 has several drawbacks.

[0015] First, to place the stabilizer in its deployed position, the user The operator must lift the platform's base, rotate the stabilizer, using their foot, through more than 180°, and then lower the base. This sequence of three steps is mandatory and requires good coordination of arm and foot movements. These maneuvers are tedious and tiring, especially since they must be performed on each base.

[0016] Secondly, the stabilizers are held in the deployed and folded positions by elastic washers. The effectiveness of these means proves unsatisfactory and decreases over time, particularly due to wear from friction.

[0017] Thirdly, in the folded position, the stabilizers extend vertically between the two side rails of the ramp. The stabilizers thus obstruct passage when the user climbs the ramp.

[0018] Fourth, whether the stabilizers are in the deployed or folded position, the platform rests on the ground via its four feet, each equipped with a non-slip pad. Moving the platform is therefore tiring and cumbersome, as the user must position themselves facing the loading area. To move the platform, it is necessary to lift the front base to bring two rear wheels into contact with the ground.

[0019] The invention aims in particular to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art, by proposing a new stabilization structure adapted to platforms, in particular to PIR or PIRL, or to platforms used for placing products on shelves.

[0020] For these purposes, the invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a height access device comprising a front base, a rear base and a platform, the front base defining a climbing plane comprising at least one step extending into a space delimited by two longitudinal members, the front base comprising two feet for support on the ground, each foot being provided with a movable stabilizer in rotation between a storage position and a substantially horizontal deployed position in support on the ground, each stabilizer comprising a fixed part and a movable part, the fixed part being mounted on a foot of the front base, the movable part being mounted in rotation relative to the fixed part around an axis, outside the space delimited by the longitudinal members of the front base, between a deployed position and a folded position, the front base comprising wheels mounted on elastic means,The stabilizers of the front base are raised off the ground, and the wheels remain in contact with the ground until a user climbs onto the platform, with locking mechanisms capable of holding the moving part of each stabilizer in the deployed position.

[0021] The stabilizers are thus mobile in a space distinct from the internal space delimited by the longerons of the climbing plane. The stabilizers, in the deployed position or in the folded position of the moving part, thus do not form any obstacle for the feet of a user wishing to climb up or down the front base.

[0022] The stabilizers do not impede the movement of the front base, as they are raised off the ground and the device is supported by wheels, as long as a user is not on the boarding platform. This allows a user to control the rotation of the moving part of the stabilizers, advantageously with their foot, without having to lift the front base.

[0023] Advantageously, when the stabilizers of the ascent platform are in the deployed position, the locking means of each stabilizer include a section extending between the moving and fixed parts. The weight of a user climbing onto the ascent platform causes the stabilizers of the ascent platform to bear against the ground and tighten the locking means. After deployment, an unexpected retraction of the stabilizers is thus prevented as soon as a user climbs onto the ascent platform.

[0024] Advantageously, the fixed part of each stabilizer of the ramp is mounted outside the space delimited by the front frame's longitudinal members. The stabilizers thus do not obstruct the feet of a user wishing to ascend or descend the ramp.

[0025] Advantageously, for each stabilizer of the ascent plane, the locking means are mounted to rotate freely on the fixed part, between a position in which the movable part of the stabilizer is held in the deployed position and a position in which the movable part of the stabilizer is released. A return means is adapted to cause the movement of the movable part from its deployed position to its folded position when the locking means are in the released position. The return of the stabilizers to their folded, compact position is thus achieved without user intervention.

[0026] Advantageously, the movement of the locking means from their holding position to their release position is carried out against a return means. The risks of accidental actuation of the locking means are thus reduced.

[0027] In some implementations, the means for returning the locking means is an elastic blade, preferably made of spring steel.

[0028] In some embodiments, the means for returning the moving part includes a torsion spring, mounted on the axis of rotation of the moving part.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the rear base forms a support comprising at least one cross member extending into a space delimited by two longitudinal members, the rear base comprising two feet for ground support, each foot being provided with a movable stabilizer that rotates between a stowed position and a substantially horizontal deployed ground support position, each stabilizer comprising a fixed part and a movable part, the fixed part being mounted on a foot of the rear base, the movable part being mounted for rotation relative to the fixed part. fixed around an axis, outside the space delimited by the stringers of the rear base, between a deployed position and a folded position, the rear base comprising wheels mounted on elastic means, the stabilizers of the rear base being at a distance from the ground and the wheels being in contact with the ground as long as a user does not climb onto the climbing platform, locking means being able to maintain the moving part of each stabilizer of the rear base in the deployed position.

[0030] The rear stabilizers thus do not impede the movement of the rear base, as the stabilizers are raised off the ground and the device is supported by wheels, as long as a user is not on the boarding platform. A user can therefore control the rotation of the moving part of the stabilizers, advantageously with their foot, without having to lift the rear base.

[0031] Advantageously, when the rear base stabilizers are in the deployed position, the locking means of each stabilizer include a section extending between the movable and fixed parts. The weight of a user climbing onto the board causes the rear base stabilizers to bear against the ground and tightens the locking means. After deployment, unexpected retraction of the stabilizers is thus prevented as soon as a user climbs onto the board.

[0032] Advantageously, the fixed part of each stabilizer of the rear base is mounted outside the space delimited by the stringers of the rear base.

[0033] Advantageously, for each stabilizer of the rear base, the locking means are mounted to rotate freely on the fixed part, between a position in which the movable part of the stabilizer is held in the deployed position and a position in which the movable part of the stabilizer is released. A return means is adapted to cause the movement of the movable part from its deployed position to its folded position when the locking means are in the released position. The return of the stabilizers to their folded, compact position is thus achieved without user intervention.

[0034] In certain implementations, the movement of the locking means from their holding position to their release position is carried out against a return means. The risks of accidental actuation of the locking means are thus reduced.

[0035] In some embodiments, the means for returning the locking means is an elastic blade, preferably made of spring steel.

[0036] In some embodiments, the means for returning the moving part includes a torsion spring, mounted on the axis of rotation of the moving part.

[0037] Advantageously, the device comprises a guardrail mounted on the front plane, this guardrail comprising a pair of lateral barriers, each hinged on a longitudinal member between a deployed position in which each barrier extends sen- possibly perpendicular to the front plane, and a folded-down position.

[0038] According to another aspect, a device such as the one presented above is proposed, the device being of the type individual rolling platform PIR, or individual rolling platform light.

[0039] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description of embodiments given below with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0040] [Fig.1] is a perspective view of a platform, according to one embodiment, the climbing plane being placed towards the front;

[0041] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of a stabilizer, in the deployed position;

[0042] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of the stabilizer shown in [Fig.2], in position folded;

[0043] [Fig.4] is a perspective view of the stabilizer shown in [Fig.2], in position deployed, the stabilizer being mounted on a spar foot of a base.

[0044] In the remainder of this description, the terms "horizontal", "vertical", "top", "bottom" are used in reference to the platform in the deployed position, resting on the ground, as shown in [Fig.1], and the terms "left" and "right" are used in reference to a person standing in front of the platform, and looking at the ascent plane.

[0045] Reference is made first to [Fig.1] which represents a platform 1, according to one embodiment, platform 1 being represented in perspective.

[0046] Platform 1 comprises two supports.

[0047] In the embodiment shown, the platform has simple access, a first base 2 forming a climbing plane, the second base 3 forming a support.

[0048] In other embodiments, not shown, the platform has double access, and includes two supports each forming a climbing plane.

[0049] In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 1], the ascent plane comprises two stringers 4, 5 and steps forming a tread 6, 7. The treads 6, 7 advantageously have a non-slip surface, this surface being, for example, embossed, ribbed, or perforated. In various embodiments, the treads 6, 7 include an element in the form of a grid, grating, expanded metal, or perforated metal. The treads 6, 7 may be made of metal, in particular aluminum alloy or steel, or of composite material.

[0050] In the embodiment shown, the second base 3 comprises two longitudinal members 8, 9 and two cross members 10. The cross members 10 are in the form of a substantially horizontal bar.

[0051] In the embodiment shown, the access platform comprises three steps and the platform is, for example, intended for placing products on shelves, particularly in large retail outlets (supermarkets, large supermarkets, etc.) DIY).

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

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

[0054] In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 1], the ascent plane has a fixed height and comprises three steps.

[0055] In some embodiments, not shown, the mounting platform is height adjustable, and includes for example two telescopic assemblies, the second base also being height adjustable.

[0056] In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 1], each of two longitudinal members 4, 5 of the mounting plane 2 carries a wheel 15, 16. When a user wishes to move the platform 1, in the deployed or folded position, the wheels 15, 16 are advantageously in contact with the ground. It is thus possible to move the platform 1 manually and effortlessly.

[0057] In the embodiment shown, each of the two longitudinal members 8, 9 of the stand carries a wheel 17, 18, allowing the movement of the platform, in the deployed position for use or in the compact folded position for transport.

[0058] In the embodiment shown, the transport wheels are neither steerable nor load-bearing in the working position of the platform.

[0059] The two legs 1, 2 are mounted hinged to each other, between a compact storage position, in which the two legs are in contact and parallel to each other, and a platform use position, as shown in [Fig.1].

[0060] In certain embodiments, the platform includes a locking device for the side rails of the access board when the platform 1 is in its compact folded position. In one embodiment, the locking device comprises deformable tabs forming an elastic hook. When the platform 1 is folded, the side rails 4, 5 of the access board 2 move closer to those of the support leg 3 and open the elastic hooks. The locking of the side rails 4, 5 of the access board 2 is achieved, for example, by snapping them into place.

[0061] Platform 1 includes a horizontal floor 19.

[0062] This floor 19 is advantageously anti-slip and is for example embossed, ribbed, or perforated.

[0063] The floor can be made of metal, in particular aluminum alloy or steel, or of composite material, for example polymer matrix and fiberglass reinforcement.

[0064] A plinth delimits the floor 19, this plinth comprising three sections substantially perpendicular to the floor 19, namely two lateral sections 20, 21 and a junction section 22, opposite the plane of ascent.

[0065] This toe board limits the risk of objects such as tools falling from the floor. This toe board acts as a stop for the user's feet, reducing the risk of falls.

[0066] The height of the plinth is advantageously ten centimeters or more than ten centimeters.

[0067] In one embodiment, the floor and the baseboard are made of a material, for example, injection molded. In other embodiments, the baseboard is fixed to the floor. In certain specific designs, the baseboard is hinged to the floor between an extended position for use and a compact folded position for storage or transport of the platform.

[0068] The platform's width is advantageously forty centimeters, and its length less than one meter. The platform is thus suitable for indoor work and can be moved through openings such as doorways or building staircases.

[0069] Platform 1 includes a guardrail.

[0070] In the embodiment shown, the guardrail comprises a pair of side barriers, each formed by a bent or curved tube.

[0071] In other embodiments, not shown, one or both of the side barriers comprise a fabric net or a solid or perforated plate, for example of expanded metal or perforated metal.

[0072] The tubes forming the side barriers and the profiles forming the bases can be made of aluminium alloy or steel, in particular.

[0073] When the platform is intended for electrical work, the tubes forming the side barriers and the profiles forming the feet are advantageously made of insulating material, such as composite material, for example with polymer matrix and glass fiber or flax fiber.

[0074] Each side barrier is mounted hinged on a longitudinal member 4, 5 between a deployed position, represented in [Fig.1], in which each barrier extends substantially perpendicularly to the front mounting plane, and a folded position.

[0075] Advantageously, in the folded position, each side barrier extends substantially parallel to the boarding plane. The platform is thus compact, for storage or transport.

[0076] Each side barrier is articulated to its support rail by an upper articulation and a lower articulation.

[0077] Advantageously, locking means allow each side barrier to be held in its deployed position, or in its folded position. These means include, for example, a safety pin.

[0078] Each side barrier comprises an upper rail section 23, a ramp 24 and a lower rail section 25.

[0079] Advantageously, when the side barriers are in the deployed position, the upper rail section 23 extends, at least in part, substantially horizontally, at the height of the torso of a user whose feet are resting on the floor 19.

[0080] Advantageously, when the side barriers are in the deployed position, the lower rail section 25 extends substantially to the height of the legs of a user whose feet are resting on the floor 19.

[0081] In the embodiment shown, the two barriers are of analogous structure and mirror each other with respect to a vertical plane.

[0082] Advantageously, the two side barriers are formed by cutting, folding, bending, and assembly, from the same metal tube, for example a round section aluminum alloy tube, or a composite tube, for example from pultrusion.

[0083] The longitudinal members 4, 5 of the climbing plane 1 have a greater length than the longitudinal members 8, 9 of the support 2, and the platform 1 carries a shelf 26, fixed to the upper end of the longitudinal members 4, 5 of the climbing plane.

[0084] In some implementations, this tablet 26 is made of polymer material or composite material.

[0085] The functions of the tablet 26 are adaptable to the desired uses for the platform 1, the tablet being able to serve as a tool holder, and / or as a support for a flexible or rigid toolbox, and / or as a support for a container, for example a paint pot.

[0086] In the embodiment shown, the tablet 26 forms a smooth support surface. In other embodiments, not shown, the tablet has one or more grooves or recesses, for example for tools.

[0087] Depending in particular on the loads in service, the fixing of the shelf 26 on the stringers 4, 5 of the mounting plane can be carried out by force mounting, or by screwing or riveting.

[0088] The two longitudinal members 4, 5 of the climbing plane 2 delimit a circulation space for the user's body, during his ascent and descent from the platform 1.

[0089] A workspace is laterally delimited by the upper sections of the longerons 4, 5 of the climbing plane, and the upper sections of the longerons 8, 9 of the rear stand.

[0090] This workspace is secured, in particular with regard to the risks of falling, at different heights of the body of a user whose feet are resting on the floor 19.

[0091] A first safety measure, at the user's foot height, is provided by the three sections 20-22 of the plinth.

[0092] A second safety, at the height of the user's legs, is provided by the lower sections 25 of the side barriers, and by a band or strap 28, forming the lower rail of the guardrail.

[0093] A third safety feature, at the height of the user's torso, is provided by the upper sections 23 and by an upper bar 29 mounted articulated to a side barrier.

[0094] In the embodiment shown, the upper bar 29 is mounted pivotally articulated to the side barrier arranged to the left of the climbing plane.

[0095] It is understood that the upper bar 29 could be mounted pivotally articulated to the side barrier arranged to the right of the boarding plane.

[0096] Advantageously, the upper bar 29 is rigid, and is for example made of steel, aluminum alloy or composite material.

[0097] The lower 23 and upper 24 sections of the side barriers provide safety to the user against lateral tipping of the platform.

[0098] Safety against tipping forward of the platform 1 is ensured by the presence of the tablet 26 at the height of the user's torso, and by the presence of a cross member 30 connecting the longitudinal members 8, 9 of the support leg, at the height of the user's legs.

[0099] Advantageously, a cross member is arranged under the shelf 26, this cross member being assembled to the stringers 4, 5, this cross member being able to serve as a support for the shelf 26 and reinforcing the safety against the forward tilting of the platform.

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

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

[0102] Advantageously, the platform is provided with means preventing the accidental opening of the workstation to the outside, for example when the user present in the workspace leans on the upper bar 29 or on the lower band 28.

[0103] In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 1], no part of the platform protrudes above the upper sections 23 of the guardrail. The user present in the space The worker thus benefits from 360° safety, with no part of the platform obstructing their view or arm movements.

[0104] Advantageously, the floor area 19 is contained within the support polygon of the platform 1. These arrangements greatly reduce the risks of the platform tipping over during its use.

[0105] The bar 29 smooth upper shape for the guardrail.

[0106] Advantageously, the manual opening of the guardrail, by pivoting the bar 29, is only possible when a vertical manual force is applied to the bar 29, from bottom to top.

[0107] In some implementations, this effort is made against a means of recall.

[0108] The direction of such an effort precludes it from occurring involuntarily. The stiffness of the potential retraction means is advantageously relatively high, eliminating any risk of accidental opening of the gate.

[0109] Advantageously, the upward pivoting stroke of the bar 29 is limited to less than 30°, and even more advantageously to less than 20°, relative to the horizontal position of the bar 29, this horizontal position being that of the closed workstation.

[0110] This limited upward stroke of the bar 29 does not allow the user of the platform 1 to leave the workstation, and is only implemented to detach the bar 29 from its support.

[0111] When the bar 29 has been detached from its support, a manual pivoting movement of the bar is possible, by pivoting downwards, in a clockwise direction, for an observer placed opposite the climbing plane.

[0112] When the user wishes to leave the elevated workstation, the bar 29 must be manually operated in a clockwise direction.

[0113] This downward pivoting movement, in a clockwise direction, is advantageously carried out to a storage position, in which the bar 29 is substantially vertical.

[0114] This maneuver is facilitated by the weight of the bar 29 itself.

[0115] In certain embodiments, this clockwise pivoting movement is carried out against a return means, for example a torsion spring. These arrangements prevent a sudden movement of the bar 29.

[0116] Advantageously, the pivoting of the bar 29 around its axis does not take place along a vertical plane, and includes a horizontal component.

[0117] The presence of this horizontal component reduces the risk of accidental detachment of the bar: the user must exert a horizontal force, then a force vertically upwards, then move the bar downwards to bring the bar from its horizontally deployed position to its vertically stored position.

[0118] The strap or band 28 is provided with means for attaching it to the two side barriers. Advantageously, the strap 28 is permanently attached to one of the side barriers, for example the left side barrier, and the strap 28 is provided with means for mounting and dismounting it on the second side barrier.

[0119] In some embodiments, the strap 28 is slightly elastically deformable. In other embodiments, the strap 28 has high stiffness and is only slightly elastically deformable.

[0120] The strap is for example made of coated fabric, or of polymer material such as polyester or aramid, or even of leather.

[0121] In the embodiment shown in [Fig.1], the platform 1 includes a lower shelf 27, at the height of the legs of a user whose feet are on the floor 19. This shelf 27 can, for example, serve as a support for a bucket such as a paint pot.

[0122] The platform advantageously includes stabilizers, on the climbing plane and / or on the second base.

[0123] In the embodiment shown in [Fig.1], the platform 1 includes two stabilizers 40, 41 on the climbing plane 2, and two stabilizers 42, 43 on the second base 3, the stabilizers 40-43 being advantageously foldable.

[0124] In the embodiment shown, the two stabilizers 40, 41 fixed on the mounting plane 2 are substantially identical to the two stabilizers 42, 43 fixed on the second base 3.

[0125] In other embodiments, not shown, the stabilizers fixed on the climbing plane define a ground support surface of a different extent than that defined by the stabilizers fixed on the second base.

[0126] In the remainder of this description, the structure of a stabilizer 40-43 will be detailed with reference to figures 2 to 4.

[0127] When a user is facing the ascent platform, the right-hand side member of the ascent platform carries a stabilizer whose unfolding movement is achieved by a clockwise rotation. The left-hand side member of the ascent platform carries a stabilizer whose unfolding movement is achieved by a counterclockwise rotation.

[0128] The longerons 4, 5 delimiting an interior space to the climbing plane, the unfolding of the stabilizers 40, 41 is obtained in an exterior space to the climbing plane.

[0129] Conversely, the folding movement of the stabilizer carried by the right-hand spar of the climbing plane is obtained by a counterclockwise rotation. The folding movement of the stabilizer carried by the left-hand spar of the The ascent plane is obtained by a clockwise rotation.

[0130] The folding of the stabilizers 40, 41 of the climbing plane is obtained in a space outside the climbing plane.

[0131] What has just been said for the stabilizers 40, 41 of the climbing plane 2 also applies advantageously to the stabilizers 42, 43 fixed on the second base 3.

[0132] The unfolding allows the extension of a stabilizer 40-43, its deployment, its opening, its spreading, the unfolded stabilizer being positioned in relation to a larger surface of the ground than in the folded, lowered state of the stabilizer.

[0133] The stabilizer is thus mobile between a compact position, for storage or transport of the platform, and an extended position for use of the platform.

[0134] In the compact position of the stabilizers, the platform has a reduced footprint.

[0135] Advantageously, the width of the platform and the second support is less than 750 mm, preferably less than 700 mm, and even more advantageously less than 630 mm, when the stabilizers are in the folded position. The platform is thus able to pass through the openings of interior doorways in a dwelling.

[0136] In the extended position of the stabilizers, the platform exhibits high stability.

[0137] Advantageously, the width of the climbing platform and the second base is greater than 850 mm, and even more advantageously greater than 890 mm, when the stabilizers are in the deployed position. The platform thus exhibits high resistance to tipping.

[0138] In the embodiment shown, each stabilizer 40-43 comprises a first part, called fixed part 50, a second part, called mobile part 51, a locking means 52 and at least one recall means 53.

[0139] The fixed part 50 is provided with means for mounting the stabilizer 40-43 on a longitudinal member 4, 5 of the climbing plane 2 or a longitudinal member 6, 7 of the second base 3.

[0140] The movable part 51 is movably mounted on the fixed part 50, between a deployed position and a compact position of the stabilizer 40-43.

[0141] In the embodiment shown, the movable part 51 is mounted to rotate about a substantially horizontal axis 54, over a stroke of approximately 130°. The axis of rotation 54 is located at a low height relative to the ground.

[0142] The locking means 52 is capable of maintaining the movable part 51 in the deployed position, as long as the user does not request the retraction of the stabilizer 40-43.

[0143] In the embodiment shown, the locking means 52 is mounted movable in rotation, on the fixed part 50, around a substantially horizontal axis 55, over a stroke of a few degrees.

[0144] The locking means 52 is movable between a holding position and a release position, as opposed to a means of recall, such as a spring steel blade 80.

[0145] In the embodiment shown, in the holding position seen in [Fig.2] and 3, a section of the locking means 52 is inserted between the fixed part 50 and the moving part 51 and blocks the rotation of the moving part 51. The stabilizer 40-43 is thus held in its deployed state.

[0146] In the embodiment shown, in the release position of the locking means 52, shown in [Fig.4], the movable part 51 is free to pivot around the axis 54 relative to the fixed part 50, clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0147] The recall means 53 is capable of automatically causing the movement of the movable part 51, from its deployed position to its compact position, when the user requests the retraction of the stabilizer 40-43.

[0148] In the embodiment shown, the return means 53 is a torsion spring, the coils of which are mounted on the axis of rotation 54 of the moving part 51. One end of the torsion spring is in contact with the moving part 51.

[0149] In some implementations, the other end of the torsion spring is supported by the locking means 52.

[0150] In the embodiment shown, when the stabilizer 40-43 is in the deployed position, the stabilizer is folded by pressing on the locking means 52 and pressing vertically downwards on the movable part 51 of the stabilizer.

[0151] Advantageously, the platform 1 has wheels 15-18 mounted on elastic means, such as compression springs. Thus, as long as the user is not climbing the ramp, the stabilizers 40, 41 of the ramp are positioned away from the ground, with the wheels 15, 16 in contact with the ground. Similarly, as long as the user is not exerting any force on the crossbeams of the second base 3, the stabilizers 42-43 of the second base 3 are positioned away from the ground, with the wheels 17-18 in contact with the ground.

[0152] As an indication, the stabilizers are then at a distance of a few millimeters from the ground, for example on the order of 20 mm, in particular 18 mm.

[0153] This makes it possible to move the platform easily. A user can control the deployment of the stabilizers without having to lift the front or rear legs.

[0154] Conversely, when a user climbs onto or off the ramp, or when a user has their feet on the floor 19 for work at height, the elastic means of the wheel supports 15-18 are compressed and the platform 1 is supported on the ground by the stabilizers 40-43.

[0155] Advantageously, each of the stabilizers 40-43 carries anti-slip pads 60-62, for example made of elastomer.

[0156] The lower surface of the skates 60-62 is advantageously provided with reliefs.

[0157] In the embodiment shown, two anti-slip pads 60-61 are assembled on the fixed part 50 and one anti-slip pad 62 is assembled on the movable part 51 of each stabilizer 40-43.

[0158] The skates 60, 61 are advantageously projecting on a single piece, mounted on the fixed part 50.

[0159] The fixing of the 60-62 pads is for example obtained by screwing.

[0160] In other embodiments, the fixing of the 60-62 pads is achieved by press fitting.

[0161] When a user steps onto the platform 1 in the deployed position as shown in [Fig.1], the platform 1 rests on the ground on the anti-slip pads 60-62.

[0162] In a first configuration, the stabilizers 40-43 are folded, and the platform 1 rests on the pads 60-61 of the fixed part 50 of each stabilizer 40-44. The support polygon of the platform, defined by the pads 60, 61 of the stabilizers 40-43, thus has an optimized surface.

[0163] Advantageously, in a reinforced safety configuration, the stabilizers 40-43 are deployed, and the platform 1 rests on the pads 60-61 of the fixed part 50 and on the pads 62 of the mobile part 51 of each stabilizer 40-43.

[0164] The user can deploy all four stabilizers 40-43, or only some of the stabilizers, depending on the needs and / or available space.

[0165] When the user has descended from the platform 1, the skates 60-62 are advantageously at a distance from the ground, and the user can control the pivoting of the movable part 51, by pressing on the locking means 52 and a vertical pressure on the movable part 51, against the return means 53. Releasing the pressure on the movable part 51, the user then allows the movable part 51 to automatically come to rest against the fixed part 50, by a rotational movement of approximately 130°, in the embodiment shown.

[0166] In the folded position, the movable part 51 of the stabilizer 40-43 rests against the locking means 52, this restraint being maintained by a return means. The pad 62 carried by the movable part 51 is oriented upwards.

[0167] To deploy the stabilizer 40-43, the user advantageously uses his foot, and rotates the movable part 51 until the deployed state shown in [Fig.2].

[0168] The fixing of the stabilizer 40-43 on a longeron 4, 5 of the climbing plane or a longeron 8, 9 of the support is obtained for example by screwing.

[0169] In certain embodiments, the fixed part 50 of the stabilizer 40-43 is provided with a lateral groove of a shape complementary to that of the base of the spar 4, 5; 8, 9 on which the stabilizer 40-43 is fixed. The fixed part 50 is made of metal alloy, for example steel or aluminum alloy, or of polymer material or composite material.

[0170] In the embodiment shown, the fixed part 50 is provided with tabs on which holes 70, 71 are provided for passage for attachment elements to the longitudinal members, for example screws.

[0171] The invention has many advantages.

[0172] The stabilizers 40-44 extend advantageously outwards from the stringers 4, 5, and thus do not form an obstacle for the user's feet when climbing to the workstation.

[0173] The unfolding movement of the stabilizers can be carried out using the foot, the user not having to bend down.

[0174] The folding movement of the stabilizers can be controlled using the foot, and the user does not have to bend down.

[0175] The return of the stabilizers to the folded position, after user command, is automatic, without user intervention.

[0176] Once the stabilizer is deployed, when the user climbs onto the platform, the pads 60-62 come into contact with the ground, and the user's weight generates a substantially vertical reaction force on the pad 62 of the moving part 51. This reaction force advantageously causes the locking means 52 to tighten between the moving part 51 and the fixed part 50. The locking means 52 is thus firmly held, preventing any release of the moving part 51 and excluding any folding of the moving part 51. The stabilizer 40-44 cannot fold when the user climbs onto the platform or is in the elevated workstation secured by the platform.

[0177] The platform has a small footprint, both in the deployed position for use and in the folded position for storage or transport.

[0178] In the folded position, the side barriers are arranged substantially parallel to the climbing plane, in a compact position for storage or transport of the platform.

[0179] The invention finds application for steps or platforms, in particular individual rolling platforms or lightweight individual rolling platforms.

Claims

Claims

1. Height access device comprising a front base (2), a rear base (3) and a floor (19), the front base (2) defining a climbing plane comprising at least one step (6, 7) extending in a space delimited by two side members (4, 5), the front base (2) comprising two ground support feet, each foot being provided with a stabilizer (40, 41) movable in rotation between a storage position and a substantially horizontal deployed ground support position, each stabilizer (40, 41) comprising a fixed part (50) and a movable part (51), the fixed part (50) being mounted on a foot of the front base (2), the movable part (51) being mounted in rotation relative to the fixed part (50) around an axis (54), outside the space delimited by the side members (4, 5) of the base front (2), between a deployed position and a folded position, the device being characterized in that the front base (2) comprises wheels (15,16) mounted on elastic means, the stabilizers (40, 41) of the front base being at a distance from the ground and the wheels (15, 16) being supported on the ground as long as a user does not climb onto the ascent plane, locking means (52) being capable of maintaining the mobile part (51) of each stabilizer (40, 41) in the deployed position.,

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that, when the stabilizers (40, 41) of the climbing plane (2) are in the deployed position, the locking means (52) of each stabilizer (40, 41) comprise a section extending between the movable part (51) and the fixed part (50), the weight of a user climbing onto the climbing plane (2) causing the stabilizers (40, 41) of the climbing plane (2) to rest on the ground and a tightening of the locking means (52).

3. Device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fixed part (50) of each stabilizer (40, 41) of the lifting plane (2) is mounted outside the space delimited by the side members (4, 5) of the front base (2).

4. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that for each stabilizer (40, 41) of the ascent plane (2), the locking means (52) are mounted to be able to rotate on the fixed part (51), between a position for holding the mobile part (51) of the stabilizer (40, 41) in the deployed position and a position for releasing the mobile part (51) of the stabilizer (40, 41).

5. Device according to claim 4, characterized in that a return means is capable of causing the movement of the movable part (51), from its deployed position to its folded position, when the locking means (52) are in the released position.

6. Device according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that movement of the locking means (52) from their holding position to their release position is carried out against a return means.

7. Device according to claim 6, characterized in that the return means of the locking means is an elastic blade (80), preferably made of spring steel.

8. Device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the return means of the movable part comprises a torsion spring, mounted on the axis (54) of rotation of the movable part (51).

9. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the rear base (3) forms a stand comprising at least one crosspiece (10) extending in a space delimited by two side members (8, 9), the rear base (3) comprising two ground support feet, each foot being provided with a stabilizer (42, 43) movable in rotation between a storage position and a substantially horizontal deployed position for support on the ground, each stabilizer (42, 43) comprising a fixed part (50) and a movable part (51), the fixed part (50) being mounted on a foot of the rear base (3), the movable part (51) being mounted in rotation relative to the fixed part (50) around an axis (54), outside the space delimited by the side members (8, 9) of the rear base (3), between a deployed position and a folded position, the rear base (3) comprises wheels (17, 18) mounted on elastic means, the stabilizers (42,43) of the rear base (3) being at a distance from the ground and the wheels (17, 18) being supported on the ground as long as a user does not climb onto the ascent plane (2), locking means (52) being capable of maintaining the movable part (51) of each stabilizer (42, 43) of the rear base (3) in the deployed position.,

10. Device according to claim 9, characterized in that, when the stabilizers (42, 43) of the rear base (3) are in the deployed position, the locking means (52) of each stabilizer (42, 43) comprise a section extending between the movable part (51) and the fixed part (50), the weight of a user climbing onto the ascent plane (2) causing the stabilizers (42, 43) of the rear base to rest on the ground. (3) and tightening of the locking means (52).

11. Device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that the fixed part (51) of each stabilizer (42, 43) of the rear base (3) is mounted outside the space delimited by the side members (8, 9) of the rear base (3).

12. Device according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that for each stabilizer (42, 43) of the rear base (3), the locking means (52) are mounted to be able to rotate on the fixed part (51), between a position for holding the mobile part (51) of the stabilizer (42, 43) in the deployed position and a position for releasing the mobile part (51) of the stabilizer (42, 43).

13. Device according to claim 12, characterized in that a return means is capable of causing the movement of the movable part (51), from its deployed position to its folded position, when the locking means (52) are in the release position.

14. Device according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that movement of the locking means (52) from their holding position to their release position is carried out against a return means.

15. Device according to claim 14, characterized in that the return means of the locking means (52) is an elastic blade (80), preferably made of spring steel.

16. Device according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that the return means of the movable part (51) comprises a torsion spring, mounted on the axis of rotation of the movable part.

17. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that it comprises a guardrail mounted on the front plane (2), this guardrail comprising a pair of lateral barriers, each mounted articulated on a side member (4, 5) between a deployed position in which each barrier extends substantially perpendicular to the front plane (2), and a folded position.

18. 18. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 17, the device being a PIR individual rolling platform, or a lightweight individual rolling platform.

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