Lifting and cleaning system for skips, for successively emptying and cleaning a container

Abstract

The container lifting and cleaning system is fitted to a transport skip (2) to empty and immediately clean a container (10). The system includes a tipper (1) for lifting and tilting the container, with discharge occurring over an upper edge (2d) of the skip. This discharge is carried out through a discharge zone (ZD) adjacent to the upper edge (2d). A tool (7) with a cleaning head (7a) interacts with the tipper and sprays liquid inside the unloaded and still-tilted container. The tool is initially positioned distal to, or opposite, the upper edge and supported by the top of the skip. The tool (7) is moved by changing the orientation of its head to extend longitudinally (X7): - in a direction compatible with insertion into the container, - into or directly above the discharge zone (ZD), during cleaning. Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 5

Description

Title of the invention: LIFTING AND CLEANING SYSTEM FOR A DUMP TRUCK, FOR SUCCESSIVELY EMPTYING AND CLEANING A CONTAINER Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to the field of cleaning bins or containers whose contents are to be emptied into a skip. This disclosure relates more particularly to a lifting and cleaning system for a skip. It also relates to a method for cleaning a container on top of a skip. Previous technique

[0002] Cleaning stations or specialized trucks exist for cleaning large-capacity bins. Documents EP 0087490 A1, EP 0 487 826 A1, EP 0559541, and US 20080105474 A1 each describe a waste bin cleaning system where the cleaning station is a separate unit not intended to be located near the area where the bin contents are received (these contents are most often waste or collected materials). In these cases, the truck is used solely for cleaning bins, not for collecting their contents.

[0003] More broadly, there is a need to enable the collection of bin contents which can also enable cleaning, minimizing the number of operators and without resorting to two separate teams to carry out these tasks. Summary

[0004] In order to improve the situation, a container lifting and cleaning system is proposed, capable of emptying the contents of the containers into an interior volume of a transport skip and returning cleaning fluid to the skip, this system comprising: - the skip equipped with a side wall to delimit the internal volume; - a tipper for lifting and tilting a container, in order to allow the contents of the container to be emptied over a first upper edge of the skip delimiting access to the interior volume, a movable part of the tipper being adjacent to an area for emptying the contents in a tilted position of this movable part; - a cleaning tool provided with a mounting bracket and a cleaning head, the tool being positioned at a distance from the first upper edge and connected by the bracket to a top on the skip, the cleaning head being movable relative to the mounting bracket which extends, preferably transversely, from a second upper edge of the skip, which is distinct from the first edge and preferably parallel to that first edge, in the direction of the first upper edge, the cleaning head being connected in such a way fluidic to a liquid reservoir and adapted to spray the liquid over the first upper edge in a direction away from the second upper edge; in which the cleaning head is movably mounted on the support between a distal retraction configuration of the first upper edge and offset from the spill zone and a cleaning configuration in which the cleaning head is located in or directly above the spill zone.

[0005] Thanks to these provisions, it is no longer necessary to carry out specific cleaning of the bins / containers, which is a tedious operation. This results in significant time savings. Operators unloading such containers thus have to exert less effort, and cleaning can also limit or eliminate unpleasant odors when the container is lowered by the tipper.

[0006] Due to the mobility of the cleaning head, the tool can be stored away from the discharge area, in a retracted configuration that does not interfere with the unloading of a container. Furthermore, the movement can combine bringing the first upper edge closer with a change of orientation, for greater speed. Unlike the juxtaposition of two movements, one to linearly bring the tool closer and the other to raise the cleaning head, drive means can be provided whose actuation combines these two effects. It is permissible to have one or more cleaning heads in the cleaning tool, which may be mobile and rotate. More generally, all or part of the tool may be positioned to protect it from contamination, in particular by moving the cleaning head(s) back from the spill zone.

[0007] According to one particular feature, the tipper includes a fixed part that is capable of being held stationary relative to the skip, with the tipper that: - includes, in the mobile part (load-bearing structure), means for gripping the container; and - is adapted to move the moving part from a starting position, in which the moving part is interposed between one side of the side wall of the skip and the container, to the tilted position which is a comparatively higher arrival position, in which the gripping means can for example extend under the container. Optionally, the movable section can define a transfer zone at its base, adjacent to the discharge zone. Such a transfer zone can be located between the container opening and the discharge zone. Preferably, the movable section forms a ramp arranged like a walkway between a container opening and the first upper edge, for example, where a recess is provided. to house the rocker arm.

[0008] The lifting and cleaning system is compatible with the lateral integration of a tipping assembly relative to a skip (tipper assembly) in order to unload the container's contents by lifting and pivoting it beyond a lateral upper edge of the skip, on one side. It is also compatible with a skip that is not covered from above, which is generally the case for skips that can be quickly detached from a truck chassis.

[0009] In embodiments, at least one of the following features is used: - the cleaning head is mounted to rotate freely on the mounting support, reaching, at the end of its rotation, a position above the moving part, for example with a cleaning head moved beyond the first upper edge, which allows the cleaning head to be inserted, at least partially, inside the tilted container coupled to the moving part. - the container is held in a cantilevered position, above the first side, when cleaning takes place. - the cleaning head is mobile in rotation relative to the fixing support, being angularly separated by more than 40°, preferably more than 90° between the retraction configuration and the cleaning configuration. - the cleaning head is provided with at least one rotating nozzle, preferably capable of rotating around an axis corresponding to said direction (D7) of removal. - the mounting support (for the tool) defines an axis of rotation allowing the tool to change orientation. - the axis of rotation is typically defined above the internal volume. - the axis of rotation is fixed. - the axis of rotation is movable, preferably linearly, in a region located above the internal volume. - the axis of rotation is kept horizontal, for example by extending longitudinally, parallel to the length of the skip.

[0010] According to one particular feature, the driving means of the cleaning tool are arranged (and typically maintained, even during cleaning) above the internal volume. The tool support can carry an actuator assembly, preferably a cylinder, located for example in a region spaced away from both the first edge and the second edge (therefore typically away from both side walls of the bucket), in the retracted / recessed conformation of the cleaning tool.

[0011] In exemplary embodiments, one or more of the following features are provided: - the cleaning head (possibly associated with a tool body aligned with the head) cleaning) is supported by a structure, preferably in the form of a frame, which is connected by a first pivot joint to the tool support. - the cleaning head constitutes or is part of a spray assembly which is supported by the structure (which may include the frame), the spray assembly being movable using at least the first pivot joint. - the spraying unit has two cleaning heads, for example arranged in parallel. - The spray assembly has two cleaning heads that can, for example, be inserted / distributed into two compartments of a tank / container or into two containers tilted side by side by the tipper, for typically simultaneous cleaning (each container being engaged by a corresponding comb or gripping element, and typically driven by the same supporting structure). - Each cleaning head of the spray assembly can be connected to a fluid connector carried by the structure and / or a single fluid connector or fitting allows the spray assembly to be connected, preferably with a removable connection. - the structure carrying the spraying assembly can be connected / linked, by at least one second pivot link, to a repelling element belonging to the ac-tionner assembly. - The actuator assembly allows the cleaning head to be moved via a displacement (including a rotation) of the structure to reach the cleaning configuration. - the repulsive organ can be moved substantially in the direction of the first upper edge. - the actuator assembly can be provided with two cylinders (the pushing element being a rod of the cylinder), distributed for example along two arms of a frame constituting the structure supporting the cleaning head. - the support for the cleaning tool may include two rigid crossbars delimiting between them a spacing including the discharge area, the two crossbars being for example mounted on top of the skip. - the two cylinders of the actuator assembly are distributed on either side of the spacing, each running along a corresponding cross member. - each cylinder of the drive means associated with the cleaning tool can be attached / linked to such a cross member, allowing the pusher member or rod to extend with an upward movement.

[0012] According to one particular feature, the skip is elongated in a front-to-back direction and of the detachable type to allow its separation from a truck, the tipper including a lifting device arranged laterally relative to the skip, at a distance from one end or rear part of the skip, the system further includes a control unit which controls both the tilting by the moving part, the movement of the cleaning head in the tilted state of the moving part, and a pump to supply the cleaning tool.

[0013] A control unit may have control functions distributed on a panel or in a control cabinet, which is carried by the skip or which covers the skip, on one side for example. Optionally, on one side of the tipper, the control unit is positioned adjacent to the tipper with a longitudinal offset from the tipper.

[0014] According to another aspect, a method is proposed for cleaning a container on top of a skip, using a cleaning tool and a tipper provided to lift and tilt the container, in order to allow the contents of the container to be emptied into the skip, above a first upper edge of the skip, followed by cleaning the inside of the container, the process comprising the steps essentially consisting of: - to associate a cleaning head with drive means enabling the cleaning head to rotate along a trajectory generally transverse to the skip, the drive means being carried by a support for the cleaning tool which is connected to a top of the skip, said support extending, preferably transversely, from a second upper edge of the skip; - to obtain, by means of the tipper, a tilted configuration of the container which is then supported by a movable part of the tipper which extends from the side of the first upper edge to allow the discharge over this first upper edge, through a discharge zone forming an access from above to the internal volume of the skip; - during a phase of holding the container in a tilted configuration, move the cleaning head (and typically the tool) to a cleaning configuration by operating the rotation, this movement allowing the cleaning head, fluidically connected to a liquid reservoir, to leave a retracted position distal to the first upper edge and offset from the spillage area; given that in the cleaning configuration, the cleaning head is: - deployed in or directly above the spill zone, oriented in a direction of distance from the second upper edge; - inserted, or insertable in case of translation along the direction, into the container whose outlet is located directly above a ramp or guide capable of returning cleaning liquid into the skip.

[0015] The cleaning head can be mounted on a rod, optionally sliding relative to a hollow body of the cleaning tool. In some embodiments, the cleaning head may be a first head, with other cleaning heads being carried by a movable part (frame for example) connected in an articulated manner to the mounting support. Spray heads can be mounted in a removable manner for replacement (or exchange) without altering the rest of the moving part that approaches and alternately retracts away from the discharge area. Optionally, a common connection can be used for different heads, each with several spray nozzles, for example, arranged in pairs with a center-to-center distance, allowing, for example, adaptation to a container opening size. If necessary, if the bin / container is narrower (or conversely wider) than a target container size, it is thus easy to selectively exchange the spray head or nozzle assembly by disconnecting it using a quick-connect fitting or similar connector, in order to: - put a narrower washing center distance (or respectively a wider center distance, - and / or where appropriate reduce or respectively increase the number of nozzle(s).

[0016] The use of a liquid spraying device or tool mounted on top of the skip, away from the discharge edge (in the withdrawal configuration), makes it possible to speed up the sequence of operations, possibly by initiating movement of the cleaning head as soon as it detects that the container is emptying its contents and / or is in an angular position (typically the tilted final position) for discharge. The container can remain stationary, in its tilted position, until the liquid spraying is complete. Brief description of the drawings

[0017] Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a tipper arrangement, here with an installation in an Ampliroll skip; in all that follows, an Ampliroll skip may refer to a box or skip adapted to the system commonly called Ampliroll® (with typically a hydraulic lifting arm equipped with a hook which allows the skip to be loaded and unloaded). Figure 2 shows a perspective view, from the rear, of a tipper having a footprint adapted to fit into a recess in the skip, according to an embodiment in accordance with the invention, omitting here to illustrate the skip, with a raised position of the supporting structure, before tipping. Fig. 3A is a rear view of a comb-bearing portion of the support structure, equipped with a comb or similar gripping area, and tabs for connection to lowering means, according to a particular embodiment of the support structure. Figure 3B is a rear view of another portion, located at the rear within the recess and referred to as the upper portion, of the supporting structure. This upper portion is designed to support the comb-bearing portion during tilting and is equipped with means. to create an articulated connection relative to the rest of the rocker. Fig. 3C is a view, similar to those in Figures 3A and 3B, showing a sliding assembly carrying an axis around which the supporting structure can tilt in response to the extension of one or more cylinders or actuators carried by this assembly and coupled to the upper portion of the supporting structure. Figure 4 shows, from a side view, the embedded arrangement, at rest, of the parts of figures 3A, 3B and 3C, which are mounted on a guide part which is able to tilt slightly relative to the support for attaching to the skip. Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a tipper arrangement, showing a mobile cleaning system according to a first embodiment, in a retracted configuration disposed from the top of the skip, opposite the upper lateral edge over which the tipper support structure is tilted. Fig. 6 is a top view of a tipper body having a tipper, according to the invention, when the tipper body is mounted on a truck, without the tipper body protruding beyond the dimensions of the tipper body as seen from above. Fig. 7A is a side view of a skip with a tipper according to the invention, when the skip is mounted on a truck, without the tipper protruding lower than the skip. Fig. 7B is a side view of an "ampirole" tipper, being detached from a truck, for autonomous operation with the tipper arrangement. [Fig.8] is a flowchart of steps that can be implemented with a toggle switch arrangement such as that shown in [Fig.4] or 7. Fig. 9 is a side view illustrating a mobile cleaning tool in a second embodiment, suitable for being positioned opposite the container tipping area, the cleaning tool being shown in a retraction configuration not interfering with a dumping of the container contents. Figure 10 illustrates, by way of a detailed view, an example of a deployed configuration of a mobile cleaning system capable of spraying liquid into a container that has just been emptied and is still in a tilted position. Description of implementation methods

[0018] Several non-limiting examples of embodiments are set out in detail below. In the various figures, identical reference numerals indicate identical or similar elements. Throughout this application, and as can be seen in the embodiment examples in Figures 1 to 5 and 7, the Z direction designates the vertical direction of the space, while the skip 2 is extended in a horizontal direction.

[0019] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, the tipper 1 is configured to discharge the contents of a container 10, in a state mounted on a reservoir part a collection container for receiving this content. With reference to [Fig. 1] in particular, a skip 2 is provided to form such a collection reservoir. The skip 2 has two parallel side walls 200, 200', which can delimit a significant internal volume V, for example, exceeding one or more tens of cubic meters. The side walls 200, 200', with a front wall end 21 and a rear section 22 that can be fitted with at least one lockable door, allow the materials and components poured into the internal volume V to be retained. The door of the rear section 22 can be hinged, if necessary, for example, around a horizontal axis when the door is made as a single pivoting unit.When the skip 2 is suitable for being separated from the truck (before or after each loading cycle, typically), for example by forming a "tipper" skip, the front wall end 21 may include a maneuvering grip 2b accessible from the outside. Each side wall 200, 200' extends upwards from a bottom 2a. The tipper body 2 may optionally have a reinforcing top band. More generally, it is formed by the upper edges, including an edge 2d provided on the first side wall 200 which includes an external cavity forming a recess 2c, so that the internal volume V is locally reduced on the side of the side wall 200, for example in an area distant from the rear part 22.

[0020] In [Fig. 1], a tipper 1 directly attached to the skip is shown. In variants, the tipper 1 can be supported, wholly or partly, by a vehicle chassis 61, so as to be able to lift the container 10 along the first side wall 200. The load-bearing structure 5, formed as a movable part of the tipper 1, can rise above an upper edge (typically a lateral upper edge 2d, regardless of the presence or absence of a recess 12c) with the container 10 tilted to allow its unloading. For example, the container 10, hooked by a gripping device on this structure 5, can extend in cantilever (remaining offset outside relative to the dimensions of the skip 2), resting on the supporting structure 5 which straddles the upper edge 2d and / or can cooperate with a ramp 24, as described later (see for example [Fig. 10]).

[0021] Regardless of how the tipper 1 is integrated, the skip 2 can be coupled to a cleaning tool 7 to obtain a container lifting and cleaning system 10, which can be controlled in a coordinated manner, for example by a single control unit 16. Figure 5 shows such a system which, in the tilted state of the support structure 5, can group functional components on the top of a skip 2. Typically, the support structure 5 and a cleaning head 7a of the tool 7 (for example coupled to a support 6, SM) can be distributed around the periphery of a tipping zone ZD. These two components can then be distributed, across the width of the skip, on either side of such a zone ZD.

[0022] In the non-limiting case of [Fig. 1], this zone ZD is adjacent to a portion of the wall 200 which delimits an external cavity / recess 2c to house all or part of the tipper 1. The tipping zone ZD has a length which is limited to be identical to or substantially correspond to the longitudinal extension (depending on the length of the skip 2) of the supporting structure 5 of the tipper 1. The length of such a zone ZD may thus be less than or equal to 1.5 m.

[0023] The use of a ramp 24 and / or a supporting structure 5 which extends sufficiently beyond the gripping member (higher in the starting position and before tipping) allows the unloaded material to be guided towards the internal volume V, on the one hand, and the cleaning liquid, which has been used to clean the internal wall of the container 10, to be returned to the bin 2, on the other hand.

[0024] The container lifting and cleaning system can be fitted to a wide variety of transport skips 2, in order to empty and immediately clean a container 10. This system comprises the cleaning tool 7 and the tipper 1 for unloading over an upper edge 2d of the skip (the contents falling into the internal volume V through the discharge zone ZD). In operation, the tool 7 with the cleaning head 7a interacts with the tipper 1 and sprays liquid inside the unloaded and still-tipped container 10. Given that the tool 7 can initially be arranged distally or opposite the upper edge 2d, being supported by the top of the bucket 2, the system has drive means (with at least one cylinder VN for example) allowing the tool 7 to be moved, typically with a change of orientation of the cleaning head 7a to extend longitudinally (see extension direction X7): - following a direction compatible with insertion into the tilted container 10, - in or directly above the spill zone ZD, during cleaning.

[0025] By choosing a "tilting" skip, it is possible to easily tilt the skip 2 by raising the end of the front wall 21 where the operating handle 2b is located. This allows, if necessary, for a portion of the collected waste to be moved from the front to the rear within the interior volume. Alternatively or in addition, a movable floor and / or transfer means mounted on a base 2a of the skip 2 can also be used to move a portion of the collected waste to the rear, making more space available in the area (of volume V) located at the front, where a container 10, operated by the tipper 1, is discharged. The bottom or base 2a may constitute or include a load-bearing floor. The skip 2, when of the "tilting" type, may include one or more rollers r2 arranged on a rear side, and two lower reinforcing and guiding rails Gl, G2.

[0026] The rocker 1 is equipped with a container gripping element or part thereof for the container 10, allowing the container 10 to be locked, for example by clamping or pinching against a A comb 14 adapted to come from below a rim or lip 9 provided on the container 10. Such a rim / lip 9 is generally provided on the periphery of the upper end E10 of a container 10, where the opening O for filling and emptying (into the skip) is located. The comb 14 or similarly shaped assembly can be moved, for example lowered and then slid upward relative to the counter-comb 14', so as to hold and lift a container 10 by means of its rim 9.

[0027] The gripping member 1 is part of a supporting structure 5 for lifting and tilting the container 10. This structure 5 is movably mounted on a guide 4 that prevents rotation of the container 10. Thus, for a standard-sized container 10 with a wide opening O, the guide portion 4 helps to linearly guide the lifting of the structure 5 on which the container 10 remains suspended. For example, the guide portion 4 includes two parallel rails 4a, 4b, each extending between a lower end located in the lower zone of the recess 2c and an upper end located in an upper opening zone of the recess or near the top of the recess. An intermediate part of the tilter 1, for example, movable only by sliding relative to the guide portion 4, is guided in these rails 4a, 4b.As detailed later, the load-bearing structure 5 can be rotationally coupled to such an intermediate part which is designed, for example, as a slide 15 or sliding frame forming a movable shaft. Such a shaft 15a, visible in particular in Figures 2 and 3C, is then movable by sliding while allowing the load-bearing structure 5 to pivot. The pivoting mounting of the structure 5 can be achieved by supporting the structure 5: . - on the one hand, by actuators, for example VB tilting cylinders which can tilt from first hinge fixing regions 15f provided on a cross member T15 or similar lower part of the slide 15, - and on the other hand, by the shaft 15a which is installed in receivers or bearings C12 formed on the structure 5, knowing that in a retracted position of the supporting structure, the pivot axis A of the structure 5 is offset towards the bottom, that is to say is located closer to a bottom face of the recess 2c, relative to the connection of the supporting structure 5 with the end or cylinder head of the tilting cylinders VB.

[0028] More broadly, it is understood that the supporting structure 5 is mobile around a pivoting axis A which is vertically adjustable along the guide section 4. The rocker arrangement 100 may have actuators or means for disengagement and lowering that operate independently of the actuators or lifting means ML. Thus, in the recess 2c, lowering means MA are provided to lower the gripping member 1 from a first position corresponding to the height level occupied in the retracted position of the structure. The support structure 5 is lowered in a first operating mode of the tipper 1, compatible with a configuration of the skip 2 mounted on the chassis of a truck 60 or collection vehicle. In such a case, the support structure 5 in its retracted position (in this first position) is typically higher than this lowered position. The component 1, and more generally the main part of the support structure 5, extends above a base 2a of the skip 2 to allow the arrangement 100 to be compact. Example(s) of toggle switch integration

[0029] With reference to figures 1, 2 and 4-5, the tipper 1 can be carried by the skip 2 by being fixed in the recess 2c, so as to occupy a substantially parallelepiped volume, for example with a height H1 of the tipper 1 which can be substantially equal to the height h2 of the receiving part / reservoir of the skip 2. More broadly, the tipper 1 can be designed and dimensioned to be taller than it is wide, and with a depth limited to less than 55 cm, for example on the order of 40 cm, in a retracted state as seen in particular on [Fig.4]. The height H1 may slightly exceed the height h2, for example at the upper end E4 of the guide part 4. Optionally, the guide part 4 has tenons, similar axis elements or bearings 8 which allow this guide part 4 to be articulated around an axis XI by being connected to the support 3.

[0030] Tilting of this guide portion 4 can be achieved in an area adjacent to or located at the bottom of the recess 2c, by using cylinders VI or similar actuators capable of pushing outwards the lower end E4' of the guide portion 4. In this option, the mounting bracket 3 can be designed to support the guide portion 4 of the rocker 1 both by an upper end, which can carry shaft sections 4r or similar parts of a hinge or joint (forming the axis XI), and by a lower end with the actuator(s) / cylinder(s) VL

[0031] The guide part 4 can thus have a generally inclined orientation corresponding for example to the direction D' in the case of [Fig.4]. This change of orientation also affects the entire supporting structure 5, insofar as the latter can be mounted movably on the guide part 4 by means of a frame or slide 15 which remains parallel to the guide part 4, for example by being interposed and guided between the two rails 4a, 4b. In this integration example, toggle switch 1 combines: - mobility of the guide section 4 (typically for the initial loosening of the load-bearing structure 5); and - a mobility of the supporting structure 5 which is driven by actuators (which do not cause movement of the guide part 4) to lift the container 10 and to tilt it until its contents are emptied into the internal volume V of the skip 2.

[0032] The actuators, in particular the VL cylinders of the tipper 1 capable of raising the supporting structure 5, can be entirely contained within the recess 2c, for example, by each having a mounting fitting 4c provided on a mounting support 3, allowing the guide section 4 to be secured to the bucket 2. This mounting fitting 4c is compatible with rotation about an axis (which may be a horizontal axis) of each VL cylinder. A crossed arrangement of two VL cylinders may optionally be provided, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 4, in order to compactly house these actuators for lifting the supporting structure 5. The cylinder heads ev of these VL cylinders, attached to the slide 15 via fittings 15c, which may be opposite each other, are kept aligned along a horizontal axis.

[0033] Whatever the design specifically provided for the moving part of the tipper 1, it can be bordered / arranged between two parallel sides of a similar rigid mounting frame or support 3, which remains fixed relative to the skip 2. At least two cross members T3, one lower and one upper, can connect these sides. In the non-limiting case of [Fig.2], a fixing support 3 designed independently and fixedly mounted to the skip 2 is shown, in order to support a guide part 4 which is typically distributed on two sides forming rails 4a, 4b for the sliding of the movable part of the tipper 1. In alternative embodiments, the support can be an integral part of a wall 200 (first side wall) of the skip 2, this support 3 being present / provided for in the design of the skip 2 in this latter case.

[0034] To allow mobility of the supporting structure 5 relative to the mounting bracket 3, a number of cylinders or similar actuators may be provided. As can be seen in particular in Figures 7A and 7B, the actuators may be concealed (not visible in the side view of the skip) when the tipper 1 is in its resting position. A control unit or panel 16 may also be attached to the skip 2, for example on a front side of the recess 2c, near the end of the front wall 21 of the skip. A control interface, linked to a control module for the cylinders, may be provided as movable within this control unit, for example to allow an operator to move away from the container 10 to be unloaded while still having remote control functions.

[0035] A sliding intermediate part or slider 15 and a tilting portion 12 can be coupled to each other, being able to adopt a parallel starting conformation (with overlap) in which the slider 15 is covered, in the recess 2, by a plate constituting the tilting portion 12. In the illustrated case, the tilting portion is an upper portion 12 which has connections with a lower portion 11 which partially covers it externally in order to make available a comb 14 facilitating the gripping of a container 10. In order to limit the bulk of the tipper 1 in relation to the dimensions of the skip 2, for the retracted position of the supporting structure 5, it is understood that at least the slide 15 can extend into the recess 2c by being covered by the part(s), preferably flat (arranged vertically), forming the tilting part of the supporting structure 5.

[0036] The assembly of the tipper 1 can be carried out in another way in embodiments using a skip without a recess specifically dimensioned for a recess or having a parallelepiped shape different from that illustrated. For example, the tipper 1 can be arranged in a corner region of the skip 2 or completely at the front end of this skip 2, while being configured to present the container 10 open and tilted, for example at less than 160° of rotation for the opening O with respect to the Z direction, opposite a cleaning device 7 mounted directly or indirectly on the skip by surmounting an upper edge 2g and / or configured to rise higher than the top of the skip 2, in an operational configuration.

[0037] Regardless of the integration chosen for the tilter 1, it may be possible to align or match the direction D of the tilted container 10 and the general extension orientation D7 of the cleaning device 7, which may coincide with an axis X7 (visible in [Fig. 5]) of a body of the device 7 that forms or carries at least one spray nozzle or any similar end component of a cleaning head 7a. This prevents liquid waste by having one or more spray jets that are centered with respect to the opening O of the container 10 in the tilted state. Example(s) of kinematics of the load-bearing structure

[0038] The supporting structure 5, which can be substantially flat, extends, for example, along a substantially vertical plane in the retracted position, which is a starting position. The gripping member 1 provided in the supporting structure 5 can operate without losing the flat conformation of the supporting structure. In advantageous options, the gripping member 1 consists of reliefs formed on an outer face of a lower portion 11 of the structure 5. For example, it is a comb 14 forming a lower part of a jaw of the rocker 1. The lower portion 11 can then be a sliding part mounted along an outer face of another portion 12 of the structure 5, which is capable of tilting to a raised level of the supporting structure 5. In the retracted position, the portion 12 serves as a guide for the portion 11 and extends higher, including a counter-comb 14' or relief adapted to form a stop. of container 10 when comb 14 is raised (due to a movement of the lower portion 11) as close as possible to the counter comb 14'. The raising of comb 14 is schematically reflected by arrow Tl on [Fig.8] and can, if container 10 is grasped, be immediately followed by a further rise corresponding to the lifting of container 10 and the raising of axis A (rise reflected by arrow TL).

[0039] The jaw function of the support structure 5, which may be optional, makes it possible to easily lock the container 10, by taking advantage of selective mobility of the lower portion 11, made possible for example by cylinders or similar actuators forming lowering means MA. A lowering of the gripping member 11 may be provided, where appropriate after a displacement or disengagement of the latter to allow easier engagement of the container 10, in particular if the skip 2 is raised, for example by being mounted on a truck chassis 61 (see Figures 6 and 7A for example).

[0040] Once the container 10 is gripped, it is understood that the portions 11 and 12, which are part of the supporting structure 5, remain fixed relative to each other, so that the container 10 remains firmly gripped both during a lifting phase (step 53 in [Fig. 8]) and during a tilting phase (step 54 in [Fig. 8]). The locking of the grip on the container 10 can advantageously be achieved while the container

[0041] In a first embodiment, the rocker 1 is capable of exhibiting three distinct trajectories of movement relative to the fixed mounting support 3, namely: i) before taking hold of a container 10, a trajectory allowing the guide part 4 to be moved relative to the fixing support 3 (which corresponds to a first trajectory of movement, which may consist of a rotation); this allows for clearance in case of lowering of all or part of the supporting structure and / or to disengage at least partially the tipper 1 to facilitate the placement of the container 10 (for example for non-supported / directly ground operation of the skip, without interference with a vehicle chassis); ii) after securing the container 10 with a locking mechanism (by pinching or other holding mechanism), a lifting along a trajectory TL which can be substantially linear, for example by following the extension direction D' of the guide part 4, knowing that the stroke of this trajectory TL can correspond to the displacement required to raise and place the pivot axis A in a position at least as high as the upper lateral edge 2d over which the container 10 is discharged; iii) when the pivot axis A has been sufficiently raised, a tilting following a rotation, corresponding to a selective displacement of the supporting structure 5 around of the pivot axis A, which is for example formed in or carried by the slider 15, the angle of rotation typically exceeding 100 or 120°, possibly without reaching or exceeding 160 or 170°.

[0042] The lifting applies to an assembly comprising a slide 15 and the supporting structure 5. The slide 15 includes fittings 15c to follow the extension of the cylinders VL or similar active actuators to obtain the displacement of this assembly along the trajectory TL.

[0043] It is understood that trajectories ii) and iii) can be linked sequentially, with the tilting following the lifting. In [Fig. 1], direction D illustrates a non-limiting example of the final inclination that can be obtained for the container 10 and the supporting structure (here substantially flat) with which it is engaged. The opening O of the container 10 is thus oriented downwards after the tilting, towards the internal volume V. Optionally, with the use of a ramp 24 covering the recess 2c from above, as seen in the example in [Fig. 10], the contents can be emptied into the skip 2. The ramp 24 can constitute a fluid-tight wall element, allowing liquid exiting through the opening O to flow into the internal volume V. The ramp 24 is optionally wider than the free end 5a of the upper portion 12.

[0044] In the tilted position, portions 11 and 12 of the supporting structure 5 remain parallel to each other. The upper portion 12 then extends lower than the lower portion 11 due to the tilting (the pinching of the container rim 9 and the overlap between portions 11 and 12 being maintained). The upper portion 12 may have an extension 12c, located beyond a point of attachment to a shaft or axis element(s) defining the pivot axis A, such that this extension 12c is situated higher and directly above the recess in the tilted position of the supporting structure 5, as can be seen in particular in [Fig. 10]. The extension 12c may be located above (entirely above) the gripping member 1 in the retracted position. In the tilted position, an overlap can be achieved between a plate forming this extension 12c (and thus forming the free end 5a of the supporting structure 5), on the one hand, and the ramp 24 on the other hand..

[0045] This ramp 24 can be either stationary and inclined (downwards), up to a tipping edge 24b, with an angle of inclination A5 similar to that of the structure 5 in the tilted state, or mobile to reach this inclined position in response to an actuation of a drive element, for example by exerting a downward push on a part of the ramp 24. The angle of inclination A5, substantially identical to that of the supporting structure 5 with respect to the horizontal, can be greater than 20°, for example between 30° and 75°.

[0046] This type of displacement of the load-bearing structure 5 can be implemented as well in the case of [Fig.7A], with the skip on the chassis 61 of a truck 60, than in the case of [Fig.7B] when the skip 2 has been placed on a collection point allowing the truck 60 to carry out other transport operations. When the skip 2 rests on a chassis 61, not only is the supporting structure 5 mobile by lifting and tilting relative to the support 3, but the guide section 4 can also pivot, for example, by being pivoted slightly within the recess 2c to bring the lower end E4' of the guide section 4 out of the recess 2c, for example, as described above, using jacks V1 which, in their retracted state, typically have a length less than or equal to the depth of the recess 2c. The support 3 can be dimensioned with a depth L1 equal to or slightly less than the depth of the recess 2c.

[0047] With reference to [Fig. 2], the direction D' reflects, for example, an inclination of the guide portion 4 that supports the load-bearing structure 5, by rotation around an angle that is possibly less than or equal to 15° or 20°. More generally, the arrangement 100 may have means for (partially) disengaging and / or moving the load-bearing structure 5, in order to make the gripping member accessible outside the recess 2c and, for example, allowing this gripping member to be lowered if necessary, taking into account any (vertical) offset of the recess 2c relative to the ground. This can be achieved with a linear lowering path (along the direction D', for example) passing close to the chassis but without interfering with it. The offset of the guide section 4 can be limited, and the rocker 1 can be designed without articulated arm(s) that might create an inconvenient bulk and / or operating difficulties. As measured along a radial direction (perpendicular to the lateral face FL of the first wall 200), the lower end E4' of the guide section 4 can be offset by less than 40 cm, for example, less than 30 cm. By designing the supporting structure 5 to be flat, this effectively limits the offset of the gripping element (which does not deviate too far from the recess 2c).

[0048] Such a displacement of the guide part 4 around the axis XI amounts to pre-positioning the support structure 5 along the direction D' ([Fig.2]) which is the direction of guidance (cf. inclination of the guide part 4, which can be globally less deep than the recess 2c in the initial / non-deployed configuration of the rocker 1) both during lowering and during lifting.This type of pre-positioning may correspond to a mode of operation reflecting the case of [Fig.7A] or similar.

[0049] The inclination of the guide part 4, which supports the load-bearing structure 5, is obtained by rotation around the axis XI with an angle which is possibly less than or equal to 15 or 20°, compatible with the reduced depth dimensions of the guide section 4. The VL lifting cylinders or actuators can also be located further back (further towards the bottom) from the guide section 4, optionally supported by a lower portion of the guide section 4 which protrudes towards the bottom from rails 4a, 4b or similar guide uprights. The movement of the guide part 4 can be actuated opposite the end E4 where the axis XI is located, as seen in particular in [Fig.4], and can make it possible to limit the offset or disengagement to a lower part of the supporting structure 5 and / or to avoid subsequently having to use a rotation to lift the container 10 along the side wall 200. In other words, the supporting structure 5 can be lifted by a simple linear movement, at least initially to move the opening O of the container 10 to approximately the same level as the upper edge 2d. Non-limiting example of assembly and design of the load-bearing structure

[0050] With reference to [Fig. 2], the mounting support 3 can form one or more bearings 8 that contribute to supporting a frame or two-rail assembly 4a, 4b forming the guide portion 4 of the rocker 1. The guide portion 4 constitutes a mounting portion for carrying / supporting: - the lifting means, here in the form of VL lifting jacks or actuators; and - a sliding assembly including the slide 15 (possibly made from a single rigid block, as seen in [Fig.3C]) and the tilting device which constitutes the load-bearing structure 5 and allows the container 10 to be grasped. In the illustrated cases, the supporting structure 5 consists primarily of two plates or portions 11, 12, with the lower portion 11 assembled as a partial cover plate for the upper portion 12, by overlapping a lower region of the upper portion 12. The slide 15 may be provided with two internally arranged side flanges along the rails 4a, 4b of the guide section 4. A cylindrical section, forming the pivot for rotation about axis A, is provided within the slide 15, extending from one of the two flanges to the other, for example, by being joined to their respective upper ends. The cylindrical section or shaft 15a helps maintain an arrangement of the supporting structure 5 which, in its retracted configuration, is parallel to the rails 4a, 4b.

[0051] The lower portion 11 can be mounted to slide relative to the upper portion 12 of the structure 5, optionally guiding the lower portion 11 between two wings 18 with returns or lateral guides provided on the upper portion 12. A plate design can be adopted for at least one of the two portions 11 or 12, so as to limit the depth (in the recess) of the supporting structure 5. The lower portion 11 can overlap the upper portion 12, parallel to it, on the outside when the lateral guides / wings 18 are formed projecting outwards from the rest of the plate constituting the upper portion 12. The lowering of a comb 14 or similar gripping area of ​​the structure 5 can, in preferred options, be activated once the inclination of the guide part 4 has been obtained, which allows, where appropriate, bypassing of inset barriers 62, visible on the [Fig.7A], and / or another part of the chassis 61.

[0052] As can be seen in particular in figures 7A-7B, the upper portion 12 includes a spillage sub-part formed by the extension 12c which extends above the counter comb 14' in the retracted position of the supporting structure 5. During tilting, the contents of the container 10 can slide on the extension 12c forming this spillage sub-part. The lower portion 11, arranged as a comb holder, may include an insertion end Eli (formed higher than the comb 14) suitable for insertion under the extension 12c, knowing that the upper portion 12 may delimit, typically under the extension 12c, a sliding passage for the lower portion, this passage being delimited between the two guide wings 18 distributed on two sides of the upper portion 12. Such a passage, of width Lb, may be substantially as wide as the width Le of the lower portion 11 as measured at the level of the insertion end Eli.In some options, the format or perimeter of the lower portion 11 can generally be rectangular. The lower portion 11 and the upper portion 12 can form a tilting device whose maximum width is - preferably - less than the spacing between the rails 4a, 4b of the guide part to allow total or partial embedding of the supporting structure 5.

[0053] In one embodiment, the extension 12c may define a recess and / or be offset outwards relative to the rest of the upper portion 12, so as to cover the insertion end El 1 provided in the lower portion 11. It is understood that the extension 12c may be designed to extend, at least partially, higher than the tilting axis A of the supporting structure 5, when the lifting cylinders VL or similar means are extended to raise the structure 5 (typically by raising the slide 15) and before the actuation of the tilting cylinders VB, as in the case illustrated in [Fig. 2]. More generally, the lifting force FL may result from the actuation of any thrust / lifting element that is installed in the recess 2c: - between face F2 (the face visible in particular on [Fig.5]) of the delimitation of this recess 2c, - and the supporting structure 5 (with such organs located at the rear of it as clearly apparent on [Fig.7A]).

[0054] In some options, there is freedom of rotation for the guide part 4, so that the mounting of the rocker 1 offers the possibility of disengaging just a part of the load-bearing structure 5, typically allowing a lowering of all or part of the load-bearing structure 5 without extracting the lifting means out of the recess 2c.

[0055] With reference to [Fig. 3A], 3B, 4 and 7A, the support structure 5 can be coupled to a slide 15 whose coupling to the guide part 4 prevents it from rotating around the axis A which can be formed by the shaft 15a of this slide 15. Relative to the structure 5, the slide 15 is positioned further inside / at the bottom of the recess 2c. The support structure 5 is dimensioned so as not to protrude outwards or to protrude less than 10 cm outwards, relative to an external face of the guide part 4. This structure 5 can have a small depth / thickness, for example to represent an additional thickness e (without taking into account the comb 14 and the counter-comb 14') of less than 10 or 15 cm relative to the slide 15, in the retracted position.

[0056] The supporting structure 5 may consist of only two parts, with only the upper portion 12 connected to the tilting actuators or cylinders VB, for example by fixing each head of the cylinder VB to a connecting element 12b rigidly formed on a rear face of the upper portion 12. Such a connecting element 12b may be offset lower than the pivot axis A and than the position of the receivers or bearings 12 for the articulated coupling of the supporting structure 5. It is understood that the VB cylinder(s) act as actuators for pivoting the load-bearing structure 5 beyond the upper lateral edge 2d, being activated only for a raised position as shown in [Fig. 2]. The VB cylinder(s) are supported here by the slide 15, via the first hinge attachment regions 15f, following the upward trajectory TL before extending and pushing the load-bearing structure from the recess 2c, typically without the slide 15 exiting the recess 2c.

[0057] With reference now to [Fig. 1] or 5, it can be seen that the recess 2c only moderately reduces the width of the skip 2, for example without the depth L1 or that of the recess 2c exceeding 25 or 30% of the nominal width of the internal volume V. The recess 2 has for example a depth limited to less than 50 or 55 cm, having a bottom face F2 which can be substantially vertical and / or parallel to the rest of the internal face of the first wall 200 (following the direction Z in the case of the figures). Depending on the direction of the length of the skip 2, the extension of the recess 2c can be limited to less than 2 meters, possibly less than 1.6 meters. In [Fig.7B], for example, we see that the recess 2c can, along the wall 200, be delimited between two edges with a spacing dl which represents less than 30% or 35% of the total length of the skip 2, without intersecting / interfering with the rear half Va of the internal volume V. Action of a tipper and a cleaning tool mounted on the skip

[0058] The tipper 1 can be associated with a cleaning device or tool 7 which is mounted on the skip 2, so as to be able to direct one or more jets of liquid spray into the container 10 via the opening O when the latter is in the tilted position, above the upper side edge 2d. Optionally, side walls 200, 200' and possibly the front wall end 12 can be provided with spray bars 17 or similar liquid spraying devices for cleaning and / or rinsing the skip from the inside. The cleaning tool 7 can be integrated on a front side of the skip, for example without extending onto the side of the rear half Va of the internal volume V.

[0059] The skip 2 can carry a liquid tank T in connection with the cleaning tool 7 and, where applicable, with the spray booms 17. The tank T can be located in the internal volume V, offset forward from the discharge area ZD. While the tank T extends essentially or entirely under the upper edge of the skip 2, the cleaning tool 7 can be carried by the skip 2 and mounted in a movable position so as to be able to move on top of the skip 2, typically above the internal volume V so as not to interfere with the discharge permitted by the tipper 1.

[0060] In the non-limiting case of Figures 1 and 5, a chassis having two sides Cl, C2 is arranged transversely on the skip 2, being fixed both to the top of the first wall 200 and to the top of the second wall 200'. The fixing to the first wall 200 can be made on either side of the upper end of the guide part 4. The spacing between the two sides Cl, C2 can correspond to a wide area including the unloading zone ZD for the contents of the container 10. In variants, a frame for the cleaning tool 7 may be positioned only on one side relative to the spill area / zone ZD of the contents of the container 10 and / or only opposite the recess 2c, without connection to the first wall 200.

[0061] The frame C1, C2, or similar mounting support may cantilever over the skip 2, in particular from an upper edge 2g of the skip that is opposite the edge defined above the recess 2c, so that the cleaning tool 7 occupies a recessed position by default, being arranged at a distance from the upper edge 2d. This tool 7 may have one or more movable cleaning head(s) 7a. In practice, the movable head 7a is movable relative to the support or mounting frame, by being able to be brought closer / moved towards the upper edge 2d of the first wall 200.

[0062] The cleaning head 7a is fluidically connected, for example via a suitable pipe or hose, to a liquid reservoir and adapted to spray the liquid over the upper edge 2 in a direction D7 away from the edge upper 2g (second edge) provided on the wall 200'. A liquid pressurization pump may be provided in the circuit supplying the liquid to the cleaning head 7a. In the retracted position, the tool 7 can be oriented differently, possibly with its head 7 closer to the second edge 2g than to the first upper edge 2d where the discharge takes place. The retracted configuration is thus distal to the first upper edge 2d, with, for example, a spacing of the tool 7 at least half the width of the skip relative to the pivot axis A.

[0063] An activation, via the control unit 16, can coordinate the movement of a cylinder VN or cylinder assembly to obtain an inclined position of the cleaning head 7a, which can extend to the extended position (maximum or with a further possibility of extension via the movement F7 if the cleaning head 7a has a telescopic design). As soon as the cylinder of the cylinder VN is extended to the maximum position, a controller of the unit 16 can adjust / activate the pump to begin the spraying operation.

[0064] The cleaning configuration can be obtained by controlling a suitable actuator, for example at least one cylinder VN (visible in particular in [Fig. 5]), which is, for example, started when the rocker 1 is in a tilted configuration that allows the opening O of the container 10 (grasped and lifted by the rocker) to be oriented both towards the inner volume V and opposite the second edge 2g. In the cleaning configuration, the tool 7 can have an elongation axis D7 which coincides with or is substantially parallel to: - in the direction of a central axis the container 10 passing through the opening O; - and / or to the direction of inclination of the supporting structure 5 in the tilted state.

[0065] Typically, in the cleaning configuration, due to the deployment of the tool 7, the cleaning head 7a can be closer to the edge 2d than to the opposite edge 2g, by being positioned in the spill area ZD or higher and directly above this spill area. [Fig. 10] shows an example of positioning the cleaning tool 7 made possible by a rotational movement that tends to lift the cleaning head 7a. This lifting may involve a rotation with straightening of the tool 7 and then possibly a lowering of the tool until the extension axis X7 of the tool 7 is oriented towards the interior of the container 10, which is cantilevered by the tilter 1). In [Fig. 1] or 5, it can be seen that the support frame 6 or equivalent mobile support, on which the cleaning head 7a is fixed, is hinged to the fixed chassis C1, C2.This arrangement can allow the cleaning tool 7 to be stored flat, with the chassis Cl, C2 substantially horizontal, with a simple simple rotation kinematic which can limit the angle of rotation (less than . 180° (for example, less than 150°) of the support frame 6 to allow for the cleaning configuration. The upper travel of the support frame 6 is compatible with a skip 2 with a significant loading height, for example, considerably exceeding half the skip height.

[0066] Alternatively, as shown in [Fig. 9], a sliding movement can be actuated along a substantially horizontal guide, here for example a rail element R, which is mounted on top of the skip 2, by means of a mounting bracket SM (carrying the tool 7) capable of sliding in a transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the skip 2. The mounting bracket SM is configured to slide and, simultaneously, rise into a more upright position, to extend in an inclined orientation in a direction similar to that (direction D7) shown in [Fig. 10]. A sliding linkage 7c of the bracket SM, optionally using a roller, a rack, or the like, can be combined with pivoting linkage parts 70, 72, attached to the bracket SM on which the tool 7 is mounted.In response to the extension of one or more cylinder(s) VN towards the edge 2d, here to rotate upwards the connecting arm(s) 72 which is / are jointly connected to the guide without sliding capability, the entire support SM is pulled towards the edge 2d while further tilting the tool 7 due to the rotation of the support SM around a movable axis A7 (movable along the rail element R in the case of [Fig.9]) coinciding with the roller or similar sliding element.

[0067] Regardless of the specific design option chosen, the cleaning tool 7 can be brought close to the edge 2d by means of a support or frame 6 or SM, optionally with the possibility of actuating a telescopic movement (see arrow F7 in [Fig. 1]) of the cleaning head 7a when it is already in its operational orientation for liquid spraying. This arrangement, with a telescopic mounting of the cleaning head, movable relative to a body that may be tubular, allows the cleaning head 7a to be brought closer (or its approach accelerated) to a bottom area of ​​the container 10 whose contents have just been emptied.More generally, the cleaning tool may feature a selectively movable cleaning head design, preferably so as to allow it to extend over / in line with the recess or similar area of ​​integration of the tilter (or even beyond such an area), typically to fit inside a container 10 which is tilted.

[0068] In the illustrated options, the cleaning head 7a is capable of pivoting, for example by being made rotationally movable relative to its mounting support SM, 6, so as to be able to be angularly deviated from the operational direction for liquid spraying. The ability to deviate / move the cleaning tool 7 by more than A 90° angle between the retraction and cleaning configurations can facilitate tool assembly. A spacing also helps minimize the risk of soiling on tool 7. A fitting can be provided in this tool for the removable connection of at least one cleaning head 7a. In some options, each cleaning head 7a has a rotating axis, parallel to or aligned with direction D7, around which an assembly of several spray nozzles spaced at a specific center distance can rotate. The fitting allows for the exchange, if necessary, of a cleaning head 7a, if required, to change the center distance and adapt to a particular container size. Example of moving a container

[0069] We first describe a case with the skip 2 raised above the ground, typically supported by a vehicle chassis 61. In this context, the tipper arrangement 100 can allow the supporting structure 5 to be lowered to leave the retracted position, preferably without extending the gripping member 1 too far from the plane P of the wall 200 where the tipper 1 is located. The container 10 is first opened by moving the lid into a folded position against one side of the container 10, which is typically the side opposite the side engaged by the gripping member 1.

[0070] As shown in Figures 6 and 7A, before engaging an open container 10 on the tipper arrangement 100, the supporting structure 5 can be previously moved from the embedded position without extracting any tipping axis A of the structure 5 out of the gauge of the skip 2, such an axis A then being able to be kept in the recess 2c. It is in response to the actuation of lowering means MA that the lower portion 11 of the supporting structure 5 can be lowered to allow the engagement of a comb 14 or similar gripping area on a container 10, on one side of the skip 2, for example without lateral gap d (cf. [Fig.6]) greater than 40 or 50 mm between the container 10 and the plane P of the corresponding lateral face FL of the skip 2, when the lower portion 11 is lowered, which corresponds to a step 52 on the [Fig.8].

[0071] When the lower portion 11 is above (again above in the case of prior lowering) the base or bottom portion 2a of the skip, it is understood that the container 10 lifted by the structure 5 remains held close to the face FL. The mounting of the structure 5 can be adapted so that the container 10 gradually approaches the face FL at the beginning of the lifting, optionally without the container 10 entering the recess 2c (which is already occupied by the actuators V2, VL, VB).

[0072] The lowering step 52 may be conditional upon the completion of a prior step 51 involving changing the orientation of the guiding part 4. The means Lowering mechanisms MA may include actuators specifically mounted on the supporting structure 5, in an upper portion 12 thereof, so as to selectively lower the lower portion 11 without displacing any other component of the rocker arm 1. The lower portion 11 may include, near its lower edge and in an area that does not overlap with the portion 12, mounting tabs 1 Ip for attaching, at one end (e.g., a cylinder head), actuators / cylinders V2. As shown in [Fig. 2], such tabs 1 Ip may project inwards / rearwards to allow rear attachment of the portion 11 to cylinders V2, which remain concealed in the recess behind the structure 5, despite the overlapping arrangement of the lower portion on the upper portion 12.The V2 cylinders, which are carried by the upper portion 12 via fixing fittings 12f, can extend essentially to the rear of the upper portion 12, extending below for attachment to the portion 11 with the ability to extend downwards to obtain the selective lowering of the lower portion IL

[0073] Prior to the descent of the lower portion 11 or comb-carrying portion. Similarly, as illustrated in [Fig. 4] or 8, the guide part 4 can be slightly inclined from the vertical in the initial orientation change step 51, and then remain fixed in such an inclined position without the ability to rotate. Alternatively, as in the case illustrated in [Fig. 4], the guide part 4 can rotate slightly from an initial vertical position in order to combine optimal embedding in the recess 2c (in vertical configuration) and the ability to lower the lower portion 11 without rotation, bypassing the truck chassis 61 (the recess 2c being located directly above a part of the chassis 61, as illustrated in Figures 6 and 7A).

[0074] A lifting phase of the lower portion 11 may then be required to secure and lock the container 10. As can be seen in particular in [Fig. 8], the lifting means V2, VL (here with hydraulic cylinders or similar actuators) can enable a lifting step 53, which can be broken down into: - a first trajectory movement Tl, during which the cylinders V2 rise with the lower portion 11 to turn the comb 14 or similar gripping reliefs closer to the counter-comb 14' or similar stop part provided on the upper portion 12 (which allows the container to be blocked / locked in the gripping position); then - a second TL trajectory movement, possibly without deviation of the overall ascent trajectory knowing that the guidance part 4 can remain fixed at this stage.

[0075] Figures 2 and 4 show a sliding assembly of the load-bearing structure 5 using rails 4a, 4b belonging to a guide portion 4 which extends over the essential or entire height of the recess 2c, possibly even extending above by an additional hl of height to allow for articulated mounting of the guide section, via the bearings 8 or similar mounting parts provided on either side of an upper opening of the recess 2c, along the FL face. Thanks to this arrangement, the container 10 can remain particularly stable, without any pivoting, during the lifting phase corresponding to the sum of the trajectory Tl and the trajectory TL, during the lifting step 53.

[0076] The supporting structure 5 can thus be lifted without rotation relative to the guide section, if necessary after pushing back the bottom of the guide section 4 via the actuators VI (see also arrow Fl in [Fig. 4]), to slightly tilt the section 4 by a rotational movement around the axis XI defined by the pivot joint in the bearings 8. Such actuators VI can be fixed directly to a lower portion of the side wall 20 or to the support 3, in a mounting area RF located, for example, under the guide section 4 and distributed on two sides. The mounting area RF is, for example, distributed on either side of the rails 4a, 4b, or according to an equivalent arrangement which (like the arrangement of the rails 4a, 4b) does not interfere with either the lowering or the lifting of the supporting structure 5.

[0077] With reference to Figures 1, 5, and 7B, the movement of the container 10 can be carried out similarly for a skip 2 whose base 2a, delimiting the internal volume V, is very close to the ground, for example, separated from the ground only by rails Gl, G2, or without resting on a separate frame 61. In this case, which corresponds to a second operating mode, at least one of steps 51 and 52 can be omitted: for example, the container 10 can be attached to the lower portion 11 without step 52 of lowering the latter. This simply requires choosing a low resting height for the comb 14 (for example, on the order of 1 meter or less) that is compatible with gripping the lip 9 of a container whose height is generally standard and typically between 1100 and approximately 1300 mm. In variants, arrangement 100 can be configured to operate only in an operating mode without lowering the gripping element below the base level of the skip 2. This can simplify the tipper 1 while benefiting from an optimized footprint when transporting the skip 2.

[0078] As can be seen in particular in [Fig. 5], the tilter 1 operates without any actuator involved in lifting and tilting the container 10 extending over or to the sides of the container 10, which makes this operation safe for the operator. If necessary, a support or control optimizing the operator's safety may be required to force the operator to move away from the container, for example, typically by positioning themselves facing the control unit 16, thus avoiding being within the range of movement of the structure 5 and the container 10 during operation. unloading.

[0079] The tipper arrangement 100 can be obtained with a modular design, for example with components designed separately from the skip 2, the only peculiarity of which may be to have a recess 2c of width and depth corresponding to the dimensions of the tipper 1. Where appropriate, a tilting floor mechanism and / or a scraping device, for example to move contents of the skip 2 towards the rear, may be provided. Furthermore, skip 2 can be made shorter or longer, with the possibility of adding an extension to the skip, for example on the rear side, if you wish to increase the storage capacity.

[0080] The tipper arrangement 100 provides a retracted position for the support structure 5, with a height level (at rest) of the gripping member that is compatible with placing the skip 2 on the ground, thus without any part protruding downwards relative to the underside of the skip. With the support structure 5 thus positioned higher or above a base 2a of the skip 2, the presence of lowering means MA allows this arrangement 100 to be compatible with the first operating mode of the tipper 1 compatible with the skip 2 mounted on a truck chassis 60, while also being able to operate according to the second operating mode, without lowering.

[0081] The control of actuators VI, V2, VL, VB and the cleaning system (via at least one actuator or cylinder VN and a liquid delivery device for spraying) can be carried out via an automatic control unit 16, typically compatible with an emergency stop control. Such a control unit 16 can automatically perform a relative movement of the washing / cleaning head 7a according to at least one washing cycle comprising a programmed sequence of movement steps. More broadly, for efficient cleaning, the control unit 16 may be equipped with an automatic detection system associated with a cylinder VN or other component representing the actual movement of the head 7a and / or the tilted position of the container 10. This detection system is thus capable of automatically detecting that the head 7a (for example, tilted into the discharge zone ZD) and the container 10 (tilted) or the supporting structure 5 supporting it are in the desired positions.

[0082] A delay before the cleaning is activated may be provided to ensure that the contents of the container 10 have been discharged.Optionally, the movement of the frame or mobile support 6, SM can be integrated into such a timing in order to allow a rapid sequence between the tilting phase, the unloading time, and the start of spray cleaning, thanks to the cleaning head(s) 7a held cantilevered above the internal volume V.

[0083] The cleaning head(s) 7a clean the inner wall of the container 10, which may be a waste bin, a recycling bin, or similar. Once the cleaning is complete, in accordance with the program of the controller / control unit 16, the water / liquid pump can be shut off. The telescopic cylinder, if present, is adjusted to retract each cleaning head 7a, and then the tilting cylinder of the actuator VN is retracted. The cleaning operation is complete, and the container 10 returns to its starting position near the bottom of the recess 2c. The jaw can be loosened to disengage the container from the similar gripping device, for example, by lifting it relative to the comb 14.

[0084] With reference to [Fig. 6], 7A and 7B, a collection vehicle 60, such as a truck, can integrate the tipper arrangement 100 and the cleaning system, possibly without any direct modification to the truck body. It is understood that, when the tipper body 2 carries the components of the tipper 1 and the control unit 16 (where applicable with the associated power supply(s)), neither the truck chassis 61 nor any other vehicle parts are required to control the tipper 1. The tipper 1 and the cleaning system can be controlled by a control unit 16 which, for example, activates the lifting mechanism to first raise the slide 15 or similar non-tilting part of the tipper 1, before initiating a relative pivoting of the supporting structure 5 with respect to the slide 15. Such a collection vehicle 60 can for example be a heavy goods vehicle used for waste collection, intended to transport the skip 2 which can receive waste or materials to be recovered which are stored in containers 10.

[0085] The sequence of movements can be programmed according to a sequence that avoids prematurely rotating the support structure 5, particularly when the pivot axis A has not been sufficiently moved to reach or exceed the upper lateral edge 2d of the skip 2 at which and / or above the discharge zone ZD extends. An associated control interface, linked to the control unit 16, for example an HMI (human-machine interface), allows the tipper 1 to be controlled and the cleaning tool 7 to be operated in an intermediate phase between a lifting and tilting step (of the support structure 5) and a return-to-the-ground step of the container involving rotation and lowering of the support structure 5.

[0086] The advantages described above concerning the tipper 1 arrangement 100 also apply to a collection vehicle 60, for example a truck, equipped with such an arrangement 100. Regarding the integration of the cleaning system, it is understood that all or part of the components of this system can be linked to a truck or vehicle chassis, for example in options allowing the tank T to be located outside the internal volume V of skip 2. Where applicable, the cleaning system is modular, with some components removably attached to the skip 2 so that it can, if necessary, operate with the tipper in a self-contained skip configuration. For example, the cleaning tool 7 and / or the associated tank T can be removably mounted on the skip 2, possibly with only the tank T positioned within the internal compartment V.

[0087] It should be obvious to those skilled in the art that the present invention allows for embodiments in many other specific forms without departing from the field of application of the invention as claimed. For example, although the case of a tipper 2 of the "ampirole" type being loaded onto a truck 60 equipped with a specific lifting tool to allow the tipper to be moved by engaging the control handle 2b has been illustrated, other types of mechanisms can be used for moving the tipper 2 and / or the vehicle can consist of another transport vehicle, for example a boat (barge, cargo ship or similar) or a suitable rolling vehicle.

Claims

Claims

1. Container lifting and cleaning system, capable of pouring the contents of the containers (10) into an interior volume (V) of a transport bin (2) and returning cleaning liquid into the bin, said system comprising: - the bucket (2) provided with a side wall delimiting the interior volume (V); - a tipper (1) for lifting and tipping a container, in order to allow the contents of the container (10) to be dumped above a first upper edge (2d) of the bucket delimiting access to the interior volume (V), a movable part (5) of the tipper (1) being adjacent to a dumping zone (ZD) of the contents in a tilted position of this movable part (5); - a cleaning tool (7) provided with a fixing support (Cl, C2; R) and a cleaning head (7a), the tool (7) being arranged at a distance from the first upper edge (2d) and connected by the support to a top of the bucket, said cleaning head (7a) being movable relative to the fixing support (Cl, C2; R) which extends, preferably transversely, from a second upper edge (2g) of the bucket, which is distinct from the first edge and preferably parallel to this first edge, in the direction of the first upper edge, the cleaning head (7a) being fluidically connected to a liquid reservoir (T) and adapted to spray the liquid above the first upper edge (2d) in a direction (D7) away from the second upper edge (2g); wherein the cleaning head (7a) is movably mounted on said support (Cl, C2; R) between a configuration of retraction distal to the first upper edge (2d) and offset from the discharge zone (ZD) and a cleaning configuration in which the cleaning head (7a) is located in or directly above the discharge zone (ZD).

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the tipper (1) includes a fixed part (3) which is adapted to be held stationary relative to the bucket (2), with the tipper (1) which: - includes, in the mobile part (5), means for gripping (the) the container; and - is adapted to move the movable part (5) from a starting position, in which the movable part (5) is interposed between a side of the side wall of the bucket (2) and the container, in the tilted position which is a comparatively higher arrival position, in which the gripping means (le) extend under the container (10) and in which the movable part (5) delimits from below a transfer zone adjacent to the dumping zone, located between the opening (0) of the container (10) and the dumping zone (ZD), the movable part (5) preferably forming a ramp arranged as a walkway between an outlet of the container and the first upper edge (2d).

3. System according to claim 1 or 2, in which the cleaning head (7a) is mounted rotatably on the fixing support (Cl, C2, R) reaching, at the end of the rotation stroke, a position above the movable part (5), beyond the first upper edge (2d), whereby the cleaning head is able to insert itself, at least partially, inside the tilted container (10) coupled to the movable part (5).

4. System according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the cleaning head (7a) is: - rotatable relative to the fixing support (C1, C2, R), being angularly spaced by more than 40°, preferably more than 90° between the retracted configuration and the cleaning configuration; - and / or provided with at least one rotating nozzle, preferably capable of rotating around an axis corresponding to said direction (D7) of separation.

5. System according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the fixing support (Cl, C2, R) defines an axis of rotation (X3) allowing the tool (7) to change orientation, and in which the axis of rotation (X3) is: - defined above the interior volume (V); and - preferably horizontal, extending longitudinally, parallel to the length of the bucket (2).

6. System according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the support (Cl, C2, R) carries an actuator assembly (VN), preferably a cylinder, and in which the cleaning head (7a) constitutes or forms part of a spray assembly which is carried by a structure, preferably in the form of a frame (6), which is connected: - by a first pivot connection, to the support (Cl, C2; R); and - by at least a second pivot connection, to a pusher member belonging to the actuator assembly (VN), so that the assembly ac- donor (VN) allows the cleaning head (7a) to be moved through the structure to reach the cleaning configuration.

7. A system according to claim 6, wherein the pusher member is moved substantially towards the first upper edge (2d).

8. System according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the bucket (2) is elongated in a front-to-rear direction and of the detachable type to allow its separation from a truck (60), the tipper (1) including a lifting device arranged laterally with respect to the bucket (2), at a distance from an end or rear part (22) of the bucket, the system further comprising a control unit (16) controlling both the tipping by the movable part (5), the movement of the cleaning head (7a) in the tilted state of the movable part (5), and a feed pump for the cleaning tool (7).

9. A system according to any preceding claim, wherein, on one side of the bucket (2), the control unit (16) is arranged adjacent to the tipper (1) with a longitudinal offset relative to the tipper (1).

10. A method of cleaning a container (10) on top of a skip (2), using a cleaning tool (7) and a tipper (1) provided for lifting and tipping the container, in order to allow the contents of the container (10) to be poured into the skip (2), above a first upper edge (2d) of the skip, and then the interior of the container to be cleaned, the method comprising the steps essentially consisting of: - associating a cleaning head (7a) with drive means (VN) making it possible to drive a rotation of the cleaning head (7a) along a generally transverse trajectory relative to the skip (2), the drive means being carried by a support (Cl, C2; R) of the cleaning tool which is connected at a top to the skip, said support (Cl, C2; R) extending, preferably transversely, from a second upper edge (2g) of the skip (2);- obtaining, by the tipper (1), a tilted configuration of the container (10) which is then supported by a movable part (5) of the tipper which extends on the side of the first upper edge (2d) to allow dumping above this first upper edge (2d), through a dumping zone (ZD) forming access from above to the interior volume (V) of the bucket (2); - during a phase of maintaining the container (10) in configuration; tilted, moving the cleaning head (7a) to a cleaning configuration by actuating said rotation, this movement allowing the cleaning head (7a), fluidically connected to a liquid reservoir (T), to leave a retracted position distal to the first upper edge (2d) and offset from the discharge zone (ZD); knowing that in the cleaning configuration, the cleaning head (7a) is: - deployed in or directly above the discharge zone (ZD) while being oriented in a direction (D7) away from the second upper edge (2g); - inserted, or insertable in the case of translation in the direction (D7), into the container (10) whose outlet is located directly above a ramp (24) or guide capable of returning cleaning liquid into the container (2).

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