MOTORIZED LOAD TRANSPORT INSTALLATION.
The motorized transport trolley with automated features addresses the challenge of handling heavy loads by automating the loading and unloading process, enhancing ease and safety.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- FR2023007501
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2023-07-13
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-15
- Estimated Expiration
- 2033-07-13
AI Technical Summary
Existing transport installations struggle with the efficient handling of heavy loads, particularly in motor vehicles, as they often require manual intervention and can become cumbersome or problematic during loading and unloading.
A motorized transport trolley with at least one motorized wheel and a motorized system that allows the trolley to move between a loading and unloading position, equipped with a user interface, remote activation, and automatic recharging capabilities, simplifying the handling process.
The solution automates the loading and unloading of heavy loads, reducing user effort and ensuring efficient, safe, and sustainable handling of the trolley and its load.
Smart Images

Figure 00000018_0000 
Figure 00000018_0001 
Figure 00000018_0002
Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: MOTORIZED LOAD TRANSPORT INSTALLATION. 1. Technical field
[0001] The field of the invention is that of the design and production of installations for transporting loads and loading them into motor vehicles.
[0002] More particularly, the invention relates to such transport installations equipped with motorized assistance means simplifying its use. 2. Prior art
[0003] At present, it is known to use transport trolleys to facilitate the transport and loading / unloading of a person from a motor vehicle to a desired area, and vice versa.
[0004] Such a transport trolley typically comprises a load receiving tray. This tray is connected to a plurality of wheels by means of an articulated chassis which allows, when folded, the trolley to be stored in the motor vehicle at the same time as the load.
[0005] Such trolleys find application, for example, in the medical field, for transporting and loading a patient into an ambulance, or in the funeral field, for transporting and loading a coffin into a hearse. Obviously, the use of such trolleys is of interest in any other field involving the movement of a heavy load.
[0006] In order to further simplify the handling of such trolleys, it is also known to provide, in the motor vehicle, a support platform configured to cooperate with the transport trolley during loading / unloading thereof. Such an assembly defines a transport installation.
[0007] However, when the load to be moved by the transport trolley is too heavy, the use of such platforms may prove insufficient, or even problematic, to ensure easy handling of the transport trolley.
[0008] It is therefore still possible to improve transport installations of this type, which constitutes an objective pursued by the invention. 3. Objectives of the invention
[0009] The invention aims in particular to provide an effective solution to at least some of these different problems.
[0010] An objective of the invention is, according to at least one embodiment, to simplify the handling of the transport trolley, and its load, from a motor vehicle. to a desired area.
[0011] In particular, an objective of the invention is, according to at least one embodiment, to propose a motorized system configured to allow automated loading / unloading of the transport trolley in a motor vehicle equipped with an associated support platform.
[0012] More particularly, an objective of the invention is to propose such a solution which is sustainable.
[0013] Another objective of the invention is, according to at least one embodiment, to provide an easily rechargeable electrically assisted transport trolley.
[0014] Another objective of the invention is, according to at least one embodiment, to provide such a transport trolley adapted or adaptable to different uses.
[0015] Another objective of the invention is to provide, in at least one embodiment, such a transport installation which is simple to implement and / or compact and / or economical. 4. Presentation of the invention
[0016] The proposed technique relates to a transport installation comprising: - a transport trolley comprising a platform, intended to support a load, connected by an articulated chassis to a plurality of wheels, at least one wheel of the plurality of wheels being motorized, - a trolley support platform, intended to be arranged in a motor vehicle, comprising at least one motorized system for moving the trolley, the motorized system being configured to cooperate with the chassis of the trolley,
[0017] the motorized system being configured to move the carriage between: - a first position, called loading, in which the trolley is placed on the support platform, and a second position, called unloading, in which the trolley is arranged in an extension of the support platform.
[0018] Thus, the motorized wheel(s) facilitate the handling of the transport trolley itself while the motorized system simplifies the loading and unloading of the trolley onto the support platform, and therefore into the vehicle. The proposed technique therefore makes it possible to simplify the handling of the transport trolley, at all its handling stages. This therefore translates, for the user, into a reduction in the difficulty of the operation of handling the transport trolley.
[0019] According to a particular characteristic of the invention, the motorized system comprises at least one belt, configured to engage with the carriage, carried by at least two pulleys, one of the pulleys being motorized.
[0020] Such a motorized system structure is relatively simple in design, and therefore simple to maintain, and robust. It therefore makes it easy to ensure the de- placement of a transport trolley carrying heavy loads.
[0021] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the installation comprises means for remote activation of the motorized system.
[0022] Such remote activation means allow the user to save time in using the installation, a significant gain for the transport of injured patients. Indeed, an activation command can thus be carried out while the user is carrying out another task (preparing equipment, returning to the driver's seat, etc.).
[0023] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the platform further comprises means for locking the trolley in the loading position, the locking means being electrically controlled.
[0024] The implementation of such electrically controlled locking means allows the user in particular to save time in using the installation, a significant gain for the transport of injured patients. Indeed, the activation / deactivation of the locking means can thus be carried out remotely.
[0025] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the trolley further comprises at least one user interface allowing a user to control the operation of said at least one motorized wheel, the user interface being configured to allow at least one command from the following group: - activation or deactivation of the rotation of said at least one motorized wheel, - selection of the direction of rotation of said at least one motorized wheel, and - selection of the speed of rotation of said at least one motorized wheel.
[0026] A user interface allowing such commands to be carried out makes it possible in particular to simplify the handling of the transport trolley. This therefore results in a reduction in the difficulty of the operation of handling the transport trolley.
[0027] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the trolley further comprises an electrical energy storage unit connected to said at least one motorized wheel and a first connector for recharging the electrical energy storage unit, and the platform comprises a second connector for recharging the electrical energy storage unit of the trolley, the second connector being connected to at least one electrical energy supply source, the first connector being configured to cooperate with the second connector when the trolley is in the loading position.
[0028] Such an arrangement allows automatic recharging of the electrical energy storage unit of the transport trolley when the latter is stored in the motor vehicle. This eliminates the need for a manual operation of connecting the connector, and therefore the need for recharging the storage unit. This allows in particular to ensure continuity of operation of the electrical and electronic elements of the transport trolley when it is in use.
[0029] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the trolley further comprises a retractable handle, the handle being movable between: - a first position, called storage, in which the handle is attached to the tray, and - a second position, called handling, in which the handle is at a distance from the board.
[0030] In addition to the traditional handling function of the transport trolley, such an arrangement allows the handle to be easily concealed. This allows the user to avoid hitting the handle when placing or removing the load on the trolley platform. This also results in a more compact and therefore more aesthetic trolley.
[0031] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the trolley further comprises mobile means for loading the load onto the platform.
[0032] Such mobile loading means allow the user in particular to simplify the operation of placing and positioning the load on the transport trolley. This therefore results, for the user, in a reduction in the difficulty of the operation of loading a load onto the transport trolley.
[0033] According to an exemplary implementation, the tray has a load receiving surface, and the loading means comprise a plurality of rollers movable in rotation, each roller partially projecting from the receiving surface.
[0034] According to another particular characteristic of the invention, the carriage further comprises stops for holding the load in position on the platform, at least one of the stops being connected to the platform via a mechanism for adjusting the positioning of the stop.
[0035] Such a configuration makes it possible in particular to adjust the positions of the holding stops according to the dimensions of the loads placed on the plate. 5. List of figures
[0036] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description of a particular embodiment, given as a simple illustrative and non-limiting example, and the appended drawings, among which: - [Fig.l]: [Fig.l] illustrates, in a perspective view, an example of a transport trolley of a transport installation according to the proposed technique;
[0037] - [Fig.2]: [Fig.2] illustrates, in a perspective view, an example of support platform, a transport trolley, a transport installation in accordance with the proposed technique; - [Fig.3]: [Fig.3] schematically represents the structural elements and functional parts of the transport trolley of [Fig.l]; - [Fig.4]: [Fig.4] schematically represents the structural and functional elements of the support platform of [Fig.2]; - [Fig.5]: [Fig.5] is a flowchart of the main stages of operation of a transport installation in accordance with the proposed technique; and - [Fig.6], [Fig.7] and [Fig.8]: Figures 6 to 8 represent the transport installation illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 in positions associated with certain operating steps of the flowchart of [Fig.5]. 6. Detailed description of the invention
[0038] For the sake of clarity, the same elements are designated by the same references in the different figures. In addition, the terms orientation and positioning are used hereinafter, arbitrarily referring to a position of use of the transport trolley in which, when the user pushes the transport trolley, the wheels thereof rest on the ground (horizontal) and extend in a plane substantially perpendicular to the ground.
[0039] 6.1 General principle
[0040] As indicated above, load transport installations are known comprising a transport trolley configured to cooperate with a support platform, arranged in a motor vehicle, to ensure the loading and unloading of the latter in the vehicle.
[0041] The inventors of the proposed technique have however found that such transport installations do not allow heavy loads to be handled correctly. For example, the transport trolley may remain stuck in the support platform during the loading / unloading operation. Moreover, even if this operation were to be carried out correctly, handling the transport trolley remains relatively complicated.
[0042] At the cost of a non-obvious approach, the inventors have identified a new and inventive technique of transport installation allowing efficient and safe handling of heavy loads.
[0043] The general principle of the proposed technique consists, on the one hand, in equipping the transport trolley with at least one motorized wheel and, on the other hand, in implementing a motorized system for moving the trolley on the support platform in order to allow it to move between a first position, called loading, in which the trolley is arranged on the support platform (therefore in a vehicle), and a second position, called unloading, in which the trolley is arranged in an extension of the support platform (for use).
[0044] Obviously, the proposed technique finds a particular application for the transport and loading / unloading of heavy loads but can also apply to lighter loads.
[0045] 6.2 Description of an illustrative embodiment
[0046] In this embodiment of the invention, the transport installation is designed to ensure the transport and loading / unloading of a coffin into a hearse.
[0047] Obviously, and as will become more clearly apparent later, subject to adaptations of the transport trolley and / or the support platform thereof, a transport installation implementing the aforementioned general principle finds applications in other technical fields. For example, it may be an installation for transporting living or deceased persons or an installation for transporting heavy loads.
[0048] 6.2.1 Structural description
[0049] Figures 1 to 4 illustrate, in different views, an example of a coffin transport installation in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
[0050] More specifically, [Fig.l] is an overview of the transport trolley belonging to the transport installation. [Fig.2] is an overview of the support platform (of the transport trolley) belonging to the transport installation. Finally, Figures 3 and 4 schematically represent the structural and functional elements of the transport trolley and the support platform respectively.
[0051] The coffin transport installation 1 conventionally comprises a transport trolley 100 comprising a platform 110, intended to support a load (coffin), connected by a chassis 120 articulated to a plurality of wheels 130.
[0052] The articulated chassis 120 allows the platform 110 to be movable between: - a first position, called the low position, illustrated in [Fig.l] in particular, in which the articulated chassis 120 is folded so as to position the platform 110 as close as possible to the ground, and - a second position, called the high position, illustrated in [Fig.8] in particular, in which the articulated chassis 120 is deployed so as to position the platform 110 at a distance from the ground.
[0053] The installation 1 for transporting people further comprises a platform 200 for supporting the transport trolley 100, intended to be arranged and fixed in a motor vehicle (hearse), visible in FIGS. 6 in particular, preferably in the trunk.
[0054] In the example illustrated, the support platform 200 comprises a base 220, capable of being secured to the vehicle, and a movable body 230, configured to cooperate with the transport trolley 100. The body 230 is mounted so as to slide on the base 220 by means of rails 221.
[0055] As will appear more clearly below, in particular with regard to figures 6 to 8, such an arrangement of the support platform 200 allows the mobile body 230 to protrude from the vehicle in order to simplify the insertion of the transport trolley 100 into the support platform 200.
[0056] The transport carriage 100 and the support platform 200 respectively comprise contact portions ensuring the sliding of the transport carriage 100 on the support platform 200.
[0057] In the illustrated example, the contact portions comprise guide rails 231 arranged on the support platform 200 and wheels 121 arranged on the transport trolley 100. The wheels 121 are configured to rest on the guide rails 231, and to be extracted from them, in order to ensure the loading and unloading of the transport trolley 100 onto / from the support platform 200.
[0058] According to the invention, at least one of the wheels 130 of the transport trolley 100 is motorized. In other words, at least one wheel 130 is coupled to an electric motor.
[0059] In the example illustrated, the two front wheels 130 of the transport trolley 100 are motorized. This allows in particular a better distribution of forces. This therefore results in a better longevity of the transport trolley.
[0060] Furthermore, the support platform 200 comprises at least one motorized system 210 for moving the carriage. The motorized system 210 is configured to cooperate with the chassis 120 of the transport carriage 100. The motorized system 210 is further configured to move the transport carriage 100 between: - a first position, called loading, in which the transport trolley 100 is arranged on the support platform 200, and - a second position, called unloading, in which said transport trolley 100 is arranged in an extension of the support platform 200.
[0061] In other words, and as will become more clearly apparent hereinafter, the motorized system 210 makes it possible to load the transport trolley 100 into the motor vehicle and, conversely, to unload the transport trolley 100 from the motor vehicle, without a user needing to interfere in the operation. The proposed technique therefore makes it possible to automate this operation.
[0062] In the illustrated example, the motorized system 210 comprises, on each side of the support platform, two assemblies (only one being visible) each formed of a belt 211, configured to engage with the transport carriage 100, carried by at least two pulleys 212, one of which is driven in rotation by a motor (not visible).
[0063] In this embodiment, the transport trolley 100 comprises various other devices and / or mechanisms making it possible in particular to simplify the use of the transport trolley 100, which is particularly useful for heavy loads.
[0064] More specifically, the transport trolley 100 comprises a handling handle 140 movement of the trolley. This handle 140 is retractable between a first position, called storage, in which it is adjacent to the tray 110, and a second position, called handling, in which it is at a distance from the tray 110.
[0065] In the example illustrated, the handle 140, located at a longitudinal end of the plate 110, has substantially the shape of a “U” whose ends are mounted to move in sliding and pivoting in orifices of the plate 110.
[0066] Thus, the movement of the handle 140 from the storage position to the handling position is carried out by a translational movement, in the plane of the tray 110, then by a rotational movement. The storage of the handle 140 is carried out by executing these movements in the reverse order.
[0067] The transport trolley 100 also comprises mobile means 150 for loading the load onto the platform 110.
[0068] The implementation of such mobile means makes it possible to place part of the load on the platform 110 and then to slide the rest of the load onto the platform 110. This allows the user to simplify the operation of placing and positioning the load on the transport trolley.
[0069] In the example illustrated, the tray 110 of the transport trolley 100 has a surface 111 for receiving the load. The mobile loading means 150 are formed by a plurality of rollers that can rotate, along axes of rotation oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X of the tray 110. The rollers are distributed in the tray 110 and partially project from its receiving surface 111.
[0070] The transport trolley 100 further comprises adjustable stops 160 for holding the load in position on the platform 110.
[0071] In the illustrated example, the transport trolley 100 comprises two adjustable stops 160.
[0072] Each stop 160 is located respectively at a longitudinal end of the plate 110 and connected to the latter by means of an adjustment mechanism 161 for the positioning of the associated stop 160. Each adjustment mechanism 161 is formed by a slide movable in translation in a rail along the longitudinal axis X of the plate 110.
[0073] The transport trolley 100 further comprises a plurality of electrical devices, detailed below, and an electrical energy storage unit 170 configured to supply them with electrical energy.
[0074] A first electrical connector 171 is also provided on the transport trolley 100. This first connector 171 is configured to cooperate with a second electrical connector in order to ensure the recharging of the electrical energy storage unit 170.
[0075] Among the plurality of electrical devices, a user interface 180 is provided allowing a user to control the operation of the motorized wheels of the 100 transport trolley.
[0076] In this embodiment, the user interface 180 is configured to allow a user to select at least one command from the following group: - activation or deactivation of the rotation of the motorized wheels, - selection of the direction of rotation of the motorized wheels, and - selection of the speed of rotation of the motorized wheels.
[0077] To do this, the user interface 180 is electrically connected to a central unit 190 of the transport trolley 100. This central unit 190 ensures the processing of the control signal coming from the user interface 180 and induces the control of the motorized wheels accordingly.
[0078] In the illustrated example, the user interface 80 is formed by a plurality of buttons arranged on the handle 140 of the transport trolley 100. For example, in the form of six buttons respectively titled “ON”, “STOP”, “FORWARD”, “REVERSE”, “SPEED +” and “SPEED -”.
[0079] Furthermore, the central unit 190 is coupled to a mechanism for actuating the articulation of the chassis in order to control the deployment and folding of the latter. In this case, the user interface 180 comprises additional buttons dedicated to the deployment and folding of the chassis 120 of the transport trolley 100.
[0080] The transport trolley 100 also comprises a memory 191, RAM for example, coupled to the central unit 190 on which a computer program is recorded for ensuring the operation of the transport trolley 100, described later.
[0081] In this embodiment, the support platform 200 also comprises various electrical devices which in particular make it possible to simplify the use of the transport trolley 100.
[0082] The electrical energy supply to these electrical devices, detailed below, is provided either by an internal electrical energy storage unit 220 in the support platform 200, or by an external electrical energy source thereto. In the latter case, the electrical energy storage unit may correspond to that of the associated motor vehicle, for example. It may also be provided to implement internal and external electrical energy sources.
[0083] A second electrical connector 222 is also provided on the support platform 200. This second connector 222 is configured to cooperate with the first connector 171 of the transport trolley 100.
[0084] Thus, when the transport trolley 100 is in the loading position, the first and second connectors 171, 222 cooperate to ensure the recharging of the electrical energy storage unit 170 of the transport trolley 100. In other words, the electrical energy storage unit 170 of the transport trolley 100 is automatically automatically recharged when it is stored in the motor vehicle.
[0085] Among the plurality of electrical devices of the support platform 200, means 230 for remote activation of the motorized system 210 are provided.
[0086] Such activation means 230 are configured to remotely control the operation of the motorized system 210 to induce the movement of the transport carriage 100 from the loading position to the unloading position or, conversely, from the unloading position to the loading position.
[0087] In the illustrated example, the activation means 230 comprise: - a radio transmitter 231, such as a remote control with buttons, intended to be in the possession of a user, configured to transmit control signals for the motorized system, and - a radio receiver 232, such as an antenna, arranged in the support platform 200 and electrically connected to a central unit 240, configured to receive the control signals of the motorized system emitted.
[0088] Thus, when the user wishes to remove the transport trolley 100 from the vehicle, he presses a first button on the remote control 231. The radio signal emitted is received by the antenna 232 and then transmitted to the central unit 240 which controls the rotation of the motors of the motorized system 210 in the clockwise direction. This results in a first movement of the belts 212 so as to ensure the progressive unloading of the transport trolley 100 from the support platform 200, and therefore out of the vehicle. Conversely, when the user wishes to store the transport trolley 100 in the vehicle, he presses a second button on the remote control 231. The radio signal emitted is received by the antenna 232 and then transmitted to the central unit 240 which controls the rotation of the motors of the motorized system 210 in the counterclockwise direction.This results in a second movement of the belts 212 so as to ensure the progressive loading of the transport trolley 100 onto the support platform 200, and therefore inside the vehicle.
[0089] The remote control 231 can optionally be fixed reversibly on the dashboard of the vehicle.
[0090] The support platform 200 further comprises electrically controlled locking means 250 for locking the transport trolley 100 in the loading position.
[0091] In the example illustrated, the locking means 250 are formed by lugs movable in translation, carried by the support platform 200, configured to fit into complementary orifices, provided in the chassis 120 of the transport trolley 100. The movement of each lug is ensured by an electromagnet controlled by the central unit 240 of the support platform 200.
[0092] The support platform 200 also comprises a memory 241, RAM for example, coupled to the central unit 240 on which a program is recorded. computer system enabling the operation of the support platform 200, described below.
[0093] 6.2.2 Functional description
[0094] The operation of such a transport installation will now be described with reference to Figures 5 to 8.
[0095] [Fig. 5] is a flowchart of the main stages of operation of a transport installation according to the proposed technique. Figures 6 to 8 illustrate a transport installation according to the proposed technique at different stages of operation.
[0096] In an initial state, corresponding to a loading state of the transport trolley 100, the trolley 100 is dissociated from the support platform 200 which is housed in the vehicle. The articulated chassis 120 is folded so as to place the platform 110 of the transport trolley 100 in the low position, that is to say close to the ground.
[0097] Starting from this initial state, the operation of a transport installation 1 in accordance with the proposed technique comprises in particular the following main steps: - In a first step SI, the load is positioned on the platform 110 of the transport trolley 100. In this step, the mobile loading means 150 contribute to the positioning of the load on the platform 110; - In a second step S2, the positioning of the load on the plate 110 is locked via the engagement of the adjustable stops 160 against the load; - In a third step S3, the user controls, via the user interface 180 of the transport trolley 100, the deployment of the articulated chassis 120 so as to place the platform 110 of the transport trolley 100 in the high position; - In a fourth step S4, the user activates, via the user interface 180, the motorized wheels 130 of the transport trolley 100 and manipulates the latter via its previously retracted handle 140. Optionally, when manipulating the transport trolley 100, the user can vary the speed and / or direction of rotation of the motorized wheels 130 as required;
[0098] - In a fifth step S5, the user positions the transport trolley 100 in with regard to the support platform 200, as illustrated in [Fig.6], access to which will have been previously cleared for the exit of the mobile body 230 from the platform. The user advances the transport carriage 100 so that these contact portions 121 cooperate with the complementary contact portions 231 of the support platform 200. - In a sixth step S6, the user activates, via the user interface 180, the folding of the articulated chassis 120 of the transport trolley 100, as illustrated in [Fig.7]. The transport trolley 100 being engaged with the support platform 200 (step S5), the folding of the chassis 120 makes it possible to raise the wheels 130 in the vicinity of the platform 110 which is in the high position. In this state, the trolley 100 is in the second position, called unloading, in which it is arranged on top of and in the extension of the platform 200, as illustrated in [Fig.8]. - In a seventh step S7, the user activates, via the remote control 231, the motorized system 210 of the support platform 200. The mobile body 230 of the platform 200, and by extension the transport trolley 100 carried by it, are progressively moved until reaching the first position, called loading, in which the trolley 100 is located inside the vehicle. - In an eighth step S8, which can be carried out automatically when the trolley 100 reaches the loading position, the locking means 250 are actuated so as to immobilize the transport trolley 100 on the support platform 200. Furthermore, the connectors 171, 222 cooperate so as to ensure the recharging of the electrical energy storage unit 170 of the trolley 100.
[0099] The unloading of the trolley 100 from the vehicle is carried out by performing these steps in reverse order. In this case, the unlocking of the locking means 250 is automatically initiated when the user activates, via the remote control 231, the motorized system 210 of the support platform 200.
[0100] 6.3 Other embodiments and variants
[0101] In the illustrated embodiment, the motorized system, allowing the loading and unloading of the transport trolley onto the support platform, comprises two belts coupled respectively to pulleys, one of which is motorized. However, in another embodiment, not illustrated, the motorized system comprises two motorized toothed wheels, located respectively on each side of the support platform, configured to engage with two racks, located respectively on each side of the transport trolley.
[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, the motorized system allowing the loading and unloading of the transport trolley onto the support platform is controlled by remote activation means. However, in another embodiment, not illustrated, the activation means of the motorized system are arranged directly on the support platform, in the form of push buttons or switches for example. In yet another embodiment, not illustrated, the activation means of the motorized system are arranged on the transport trolley, forming an integral part of the user interface for controlling the motorized wheels by example. Avoiding remote control makes it possible, in particular, to prevent a malicious third party, after duplicating the reference signal from the authentic control device, from taking control of the truck via a fraudulent control device.
[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, the electrical locking means of the transport trolley in the loading position are formed by translationally movable lugs, carried by a support platform, configured to fit into complementary orifices, provided in the chassis of the transport trolley. In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, the electrical locking means are formed by translationally movable pads, carried by a support platform, configured to bear against the lateral sides of the chassis of the transport trolley, so as to exert a pinching force. In another alternative embodiment, not illustrated, the movable parts of the locking means are carried by the transport trolley. In yet another embodiment, not illustrated, the locking means are manual.This makes it possible in particular to limit the mobilization of electrical resources for the operation of the installation.
[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, when the trolley is in the loading position, the cooperation of the first and second connectors allows the recharging of the electrical energy storage unit of the trolley. However, in another embodiment, not illustrated, the support platform is devoid of a second connector. The recharging of the electrical energy storage unit of the trolley is carried out by an external cable. Such an arrangement makes it possible in particular to reduce the structural complexity of the trolley.
[0105] In the illustrated embodiment, the trolley's operating handle is retractable. However, in another embodiment, not illustrated, the handle is fixedly mounted on the trolley. Such an arrangement makes it possible in particular to reduce the structural complexity of the trolley. This results in particular in a lower manufacturing cost and easier maintenance.
[0106] In the illustrated embodiment, the user interface for controlling the operation of the motorized wheels is arranged on the handle. However, in another embodiment, not illustrated, the interface is arranged on another part of the transport trolley. For example, the user control interface is formed of a plurality of pedals located in the vicinity of wheels, preferably rear wheels. Such an arrangement makes it possible in particular to implement a more compact handling handle, which in particular improves the aesthetics of the trolley. This aspect constitutes an important decision criterion for ceremonial applications for example.
[0107] In the illustrated embodiment, the mobile means for loading the load onto the tray comprise a plurality of rollers whose respective axis of rotation is oriented transversely to the longitudinal axis of the tray. In another embodiment embodiment, not shown, the plurality of rollers is arranged so that their respective axis of rotation is oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the tray. Such an arrangement makes it possible to ensure the loading of the load no longer from the front or rear of the carriage but from one side thereof. In another embodiment, not shown, having the combined advantages of these two implementations, the rollers are replaced by balls.
[0108] In the illustrated embodiment, each mechanism for adjusting the positioning of the load holding stop on the plate is formed by a slide movable in translation in a rail. However, any other technical solution, such as a worm screw, making it possible to ensure adjustment of the positioning of the stop can be envisaged.
[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, the transport trolley is shaped so as to allow the support and maintenance of a coffin. However, in another embodiment, not shown, the transport trolley is shaped so as to allow the support and maintenance of an individual receiving medical attention. In such an embodiment, and according to a first example, a medical mattress is attached and fixed reversibly (via the holding stops or any other suitable solution) to the tray of the trolley illustrated in the figures. Such a modular trolley has the advantage of being versatile as well as adapting to technical developments and / or existing medical equipment of the various players in the field. According to a second example, the trolley is specifically shaped for a medical application. In other words, the medical mattress is secured to the tray of the trolley.Regardless of the embodiment or implementation chosen, the trolley and / or tray thereof may include fixing portions (orifices, hooks, projections, etc.) for medical devices, particularly those of significant mass.
[0110] Obviously, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and provided solely by way of example. It encompasses various modifications, alternative forms and other variants that may be envisaged by those skilled in the art within the framework of the present invention and in particular all combinations of the different embodiments described above, which may be taken separately or in association.
[0111] According to different aspects, the invention therefore presents all or part of the following advantages, depending on the embodiments chosen: - allow automated loading / unloading of the transport trolley into a vehicle equipped with an associated support platform; - allow easy handling of the transport trolley and its load; - ensure that a load is held in position on the transport trolley; - ensure that the transport trolley is held in position on the support platform associated; - offer a versatile transport trolley; - offer an easily rechargeable electrically assisted transport trolley; - allow limited space requirements; - guarantee significant longevity; - require limited maintenance; - limit manufacturing costs; - etc.
Claims
Claims
1. Transport installation (1) comprising: - a transport trolley (100) comprising a platform (110), intended to support a load, connected by a chassis (120) articulated to a plurality of wheels (130), at least one wheel of said plurality of wheels being motorized, - a platform (200) for supporting said trolley (100), intended to be arranged in a motor vehicle, comprising at least one motorized system (210) for moving said trolley, said motorized system (210) being configured to cooperate with said chassis (120) of the trolley, said motorized system (210) being configured to move said trolley (100) between: - a first position, called loading, in which said trolley (100) is arranged on said platform (200), and - a second position, called unloading, in which said trolley (100) is arranged in an extension of said platform (200).
2. Transport installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said motorized system (210) comprises at least one belt (212), configured to engage with said carriage (100), carried by at least two pulleys (211), one of said pulleys (211) being motorized.
3. Transport installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises means (230) for remote activation of said motorized system (210).
4. Transport installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said platform (200) further comprises locking means (250) for said carriage (100) in the loading position, said locking means (250) being electrically controlled.
5. Transport installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said trolley (100) further comprises at least one user interface (180) allowing a user to control the operation of said at least one motorized wheel, said user interface (180) being configured to allow at least one command from the following group: - activation or deactivation of the rotation of said at least one motorized wheel, - selection of the direction of rotation of said at least one motorized wheel, and - selection of the speed of rotation of said at least one motorized wheel.
6. Transport installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said trolley (100) further comprises an electrical energy storage unit (170) connected to said at least one motorized wheel and a first connector (171) for recharging said electrical energy storage unit (170), and in that said platform (200) comprises a second connector (222) for recharging said electrical energy storage unit (170) of said trolley, said second connector (222) being connected to at least one electrical energy supply source, said first connector (171) being configured to cooperate with said second connector (222) when said trolley (100) is in the loading position.
7. Transport installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said trolley (100) further comprises a retractable handle (140), said handle (140) being movable between: - a first position, called storage, in which said handle (140) is adjacent to said tray (110), and - a second position, called handling, in which said handle (140) is at a distance from said tray (110).
8. Transport installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said carriage (100) further comprises mobile means (150) for loading said load onto said platform (110).
9. Transport installation (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that said tray (110) has a surface (111) for receiving said load, and in that said loading means (150) comprise a plurality of rollers movable in rotation, each roller partially projecting from said receiving surface (111).
10. Transport installation (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said carriage (100) further comprises stops (160) for holding said load in position on said platform (110), at least one of said stops (160) being connected to said platform (110) via a mechanism (161) for adjusting the positioning of said stop (160).