Interface device for handling a tipping container, particularly for use with a storage skip

Abstract

Handling interface device (1) comprising a chassis (10) including a rear part (12) which is fixed and able to be fixed against a fixed structure or to the ground, a front part (11) having support means (13) intended to carry a tilting type container, and a structure with a mobility function (14) which connects the rear part (12) to the front part (11) and is able to move the front part (11) relative to the rear part (12) in horizontal translation, and intended to make the container mobile in horizontal translation.

Description

Title of the invention: Interface device for handling a tilting container, in particular for cooperation with a storage skip

[0001] The invention relates to the field of container handling, in particular tilting containers intended for the temporary storage of any type of object or waste.

[0002] The invention will be described more particularly with regard to the handling of tilting containers for the purpose of emptying them by tilting into a storage skip.

[0003] Today, a forklift is used to tip a handling container into a storage skip. A typical container consists of a chassis with a pair of forklift pockets, a box fixed to the chassis and pivoting to move from an upright, horizontal position for storing waste to a tilted position for gravity-fed discharge, and a locking and unlocking system for the box in the upright position. The locking system is manually operated by the operator to release the box and allow it to be tipped. However, such a container has the disadvantage of requiring an operator to manually activate the locking system to discharge the contents and then manually relock the box once it has been emptied and returned to the upright position.The operator is often the forklift driver who therefore has to get off the forklift and then get back on several times.

[0004] To avoid manual operation, patent application FR2958924 proposes a removable interface device between the forklift and the tipping container. This interface device includes openings for the forks of a forklift, which are designed to reach into the sleeves of the container's frame, and an automated lifting system for one end of the container, enabling the container to be rotated. The automated lifting system comprises a central sliding column capable of tilting via a hydraulic cylinder, and a pair of closely spaced miniature arms cooperating in vertical translation within the central column's slide to be positioned at the height of the container. The pair of arms opposite the slide cooperates centrally with the edge of the container, and the pivoting of the slide causes the container to tip.This interface device allows for the transfer of contents from one container to another using a forklift and for the automated tilting of the container.

[0005] However, although this patent proposes a solution for automated tipping, one drawback remains: the forklift must always unload at the edge of the skip. To distribute the waste throughout the skip during filling, the operator positions the forklift regularly at various points along its edge. This requires sufficient clearance all around the skip for forklift access and maneuverability, which is not always possible, especially when several skips need to be placed side by side. Therefore, patent FR3114088B1 describes equipping a skip with longitudinal tracks along which a container to be emptied can be moved in translation. The container is carried by a small vehicle equipped with a lifting and a translation system.The small vehicle allows the container to be lifted to the edge of the skip, which can then be moved along the skip's tracks to be emptied away from the edge. This advantageous solution allows the entire volume of the skip to be filled progressively by positioning the small vehicle at the end of the skip, without having to move around it. However, the entire small vehicle and container are specifically designed for this purpose.

[0006] The invention therefore aims to propose another solution for an interface device for handling a container tilting over a storage bin.

[0007] According to the invention, the handling interface device comprises a chassis including a rear portion, in a preferred embodiment which is fixed and able to be fixed against a fixed structure or to the ground, a front portion equipped with support means for carrying a tipping container, and a mobility structure that connects the rear portion to the front portion and is able to move the front portion relative to the rear portion in horizontal translation, and intended to make the container mobile in horizontal translation. The front portion, in the device's installation position (the rear portion being fixed), is intended to be at the level of the upper surface of a storage bin.

[0008] Thus, the handling interface device of the invention makes it possible to carry a tilting container above a storage bin, which, when the container is at the height of the bin, can be emptied at different points on the storage bin. The container is at the height of the storage bin, and the interface device is fixed (by its rear part) to a receiving platform for the handling container, directly at the height of the upper emptying plane of the storage bin. Alternatively, the interface device is fixed to the ground via its rear part, and the handling container, in the position supported by the support means, is able to be lifted from the ground to a higher plane where the front part is located. The front section is then able to be moved over and along the storage bin (in particular, the interface device is installed on the ground at the end of a storage bin and notably functions as a lift). In such an embodiment, the interface device, particularly the rear section, does not necessarily require forklift pockets.

[0009] The interface device has the advantage of saving space on the ground occupied by several storage bins which can then be arranged by being laterally attached to each other parallel to their longitudinal sides, since only their access at the end is sufficient.

[0010] Thus, the interface device can carry any type of container and be positioned at the end of a storage bin, allowing it to be filled along its length by translating the mobility structure of the interface device. Again, the container is brought to a distance from the end of the bin to be emptied at any point within the storage bin. This is very practical since, as already explained, it saves floor space by allowing several storage bins to be arranged side-by-side parallel to each other along their longitudinal sides.

[0011] In a first embodiment, the interface device is permanently fixed against a quay where a storage skip is located below; the handling container is brought to the interface device by positioning it on the support means of said interface device and once in place, the container can be translated above the storage skip at a distance from the quay.In this embodiment, when the interface device is fixed not in the horizontal plane of the platform but against the vertical wall of the platform, the interface device advantageously comprises jacks which connect the rear bottom of the chassis to the rear of the structure with a mobility function, the jacks being capable of pivoting the front part when it is in position against the rear part (non-translated position or so-called folded position) so as to raise and lower said front part, in particular to raise and lower said front part when it is equipped with rolling or sliding elements.

[0012] Advantageously, in this first embodiment, the rear part includes additional support means for a container when the mobility structure is said to be folded (front part completely against the rear part). Since the front part is cantilevered relative to the rear part, this allows the front part and the container to be supported in mid-air. Preferably, the additional support means for the rear part form elongated, fork-like elements that cooperate with the support means for the front part, in particular that cooperate by inserting the support means into hollow interface profiles and into the sleeves with which the container is fitted when the container is in place on the device.

[0013] In a second embodiment, the rear part constitutes a base structure for the interface device and is fixed, being intended to be installed on the ground, and the front part is arranged at a height, the interface device further comprising a lifting and lowering system capable of raising and lowering a handling container between the ground and the plane where the front part, which is capable of being translated, is located. In particular, the lifting system is coupled to the container support means.Also, according to one characteristic, the rear part constitutes a support structure for the interface device, which includes a base (intended to be fixed to the ground) and a platform. The front part is positioned vertically in the plane of the platform, and the interface device includes a lifting and lowering system coupled to, or constituting in addition, the support means (of the container). The lifting and lowering system is capable of raising and lowering the support means between the base and the platform when the front part is arranged fully against the rear part in the so-called folded position of the structure with a mobility function. Preferably, the lifting and lowering system is a system with motorized chains and sprockets.

[0014] Thus, in the position of use of the interface device, the rear part remains fixed while the front part on which the container is installed can be moved away from the rear part and therefore away from the edge of a storage bin brought against the interface device, the front part being arranged in the upper plane of the storage bin.

[0015] In the following description, the qualifiers "horizontal", "vertical", "upper", "lower", "top" and "bottom" of an element of the interface device and of a tilting container are used in the context of a normal installation of the interface device and of the tilting container, that is to say relating to a vertical notion in relation to a horizontal surface on which the interface device or the container would be placed.

[0016] The term "front", as opposed to "rear", qualifies an element in the context of normal use of the interface device and the tilting container, the front of the interface device corresponding to the area at which the container will be installed to translate it forward while the rear will be intended to remain fixed; the front of the container corresponds to the area from which the container will be emptied.

[0017] In the following description, "upright position" means the non-tilted position of the tilting container.

[0018] In the following description, the term "transverse" refers to the direction corresponding to the width of the interface device, that is, along the direction perpendicular to a longitudinal axis which corresponds to the horizontal front-to-back direction.

[0019] In a preferred example of the invention, the structure with a mobility function connecting the rear part to the front part and is capable of deploying and folding, preferably said structure being actuated by jacks, in particular said structure comprising two opposite and parallel compass arms (which deploy and fold simultaneously).

[0020] In one embodiment, the support means (intended to support a container) are two hollow and spaced interface profiles corresponding to the passage of forks of a forklift.

[0021] Advantageously, the support means (intended for supporting a container) comprise two hollow and spaced interface profiles, which project towards the front of the interface device (and in a longitudinal direction which corresponds to the direction of translation), the two interface profiles being, on the one hand, of the type suitable for receiving the forks of a forklift, and on the other hand, suitable for being inserted into a pair of sleeves of the container commonly used for the insertion of forklift forks (the sleeves being integral with the container intended to be carried by the interface device), preferably the two interface profiles having a generally U-shaped cross-section. The interface profiles are open at least at one of their ends for the insertion of the additional support means in the case of the first embodiment of the interface device.The U-shaped section, rather than a closed right-angled quadrilateral, allows for increased material thickness on one face of the profile, thus increasing the profile height to fit with a slight gap into a forklift forklift sleeve.

[0022] According to one feature, the front part includes a lifting system coupled to the support means and capable of lifting in vertical translation and lowering said support means.

[0023] In a particular example, the lifting system is capable of vertically translating the support means upwards relative to the horizontal translation plane of the front part, and of lowering the support means back down in the translation plane, which allows certain types of containers, in particular so-called "front axis" containers, to be raised into a position above a storage bin so that when they tip over and / or return towards the end of the storage bin in their tilted state, they do not bump into waste present in the storage bin.

[0024] According to one feature, the interface device comprises rolling or sliding elements that are carried by the front part of the chassis. These elements of rolling or sliding thus facilitate the guidance and translation of the interface device by their support on the upper ends (the edges) of the longitudinal sides of a storage bin, when the device is simultaneously deployed in horizontal translation to advance over said storage bin.

[0025] In particular, the front part of the chassis of the device comprises two lateral profiles which each include the rolling or sliding elements, preferably each lateral profile includes at least two rolling or sliding elements, each of the elements being arranged at each end of the lateral profile.

[0026] In a particular embodiment, each rolling element has the form of a cylindrical rotating roller or wheel with an axis of rotation perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the side profiles. This type of rolling element allows it to cooperate with the upper end edge of a standard storage bin. Each rolling or sliding element is unpowered. Each rolling or sliding element is mechanically independent of any motorized means or rack and pinion or hydraulic cylinder drive, which simplifies the interface design and does not increase manufacturing costs. However, each rolling or sliding element assists the mobility of the front section on the storage bin during the deployment and retraction of the mobility structure.Furthermore, since the mobility structure is preferably movable by jacks, the interface device provides a simple overall design and limited manufacturing costs.

[0027] According to one feature, the lifting system integrated into the front part can be capable of raising the handling container above the level of the support plane of the rolling or sliding elements and lowering it back down to this support plane, and / or capable of lowering said handling container below the support plane of the rolling or sliding elements when the mobility structure is folded and the front part, in the installed position of the interface device, is arranged outside of a storage bin. This embodiment is used, for example, outside of any forklift and when the interface device is permanently installed on the ground (second embodiment mentioned above); the rear part is fixed to the ground and forms a frame in the manner of an elevator cage for raising or lowering a container from the ground to the support plane of the rolling or sliding elements.In the latter case, the lifting system constitutes (in particular in the form of suspension means) or is coupled to the container support means; the lifting system also constitutes a locking and unlocking system intended to ensure the locking and unlocking of the container's tilting.

[0028] According to the invention, the container is able to be in a tilted position, while the mobility structure is in operation to translate the container. Thus, emptying is carried out dynamically; the inclination of the container, coupled with a translational movement, makes it possible to create layers of waste of homogeneous thickness along the entire length of the storage skip, ensuring a high filling rate since there is no longer an accumulation of heterogeneous piles of waste.

[0029] According to one feature, the interface device comprises an automated locking and unlocking interface system for locking and unlocking the tilting of a container to be positioned on the interface device; in particular, the locking and unlocking interface system comprises a movable locking and unlocking part that is fixed to the interface device, in particular to the front of the interface device (more particularly to one of the container support means), as well as automated actuation means for the movable part and a fixed part in the form of an adapter kit component, which is intended to be fixed to, and specifically designed for, a tilting actuation member of a container intended to be carried by the interface device.The moving part is designed to cooperate with the fixed part in an active safety position that prevents the container from tipping and in an unlocked position that allows tipping. Specifically, a tipping container is always equipped with an actuating mechanism, such as a lever, which, in a certain position, allows the container to tip. This lever has a mechanical safety feature that, when activated, prevents it from being in the position that allows the container to tip. Depending on the manufacturer's model, the actuating mechanism can take various forms (lever, pedal, thick sheet metal, etc.), so the adapter kit component is specifically designed to fit the actuating mechanism. The kit component can be secured to the actuating mechanism by mechanical fastening, welding, etc. Furthermore,A standard container always includes an additional mechanical safety feature that must be disengaged before operating the safety mechanism directly linked to the actuating device. This additional safety feature ensures, in particular, that the container does not tip unexpectedly when being moved on the forklift. However, currently, the operator must always get off the forklift to deactivate this additional safety feature, which is not necessarily safe for them in areas where other forklifts may be operating. Therefore, the automated locking and unlocking interface system of the invention advantageously allows, on the one hand, the replacement of the mechanical safety feature associated with the actuating device that allows tipping on a tilting container, and on the other hand, the replacement of the additional safety feature. Thus, the fixed part of the system's adaptation kit is pre-arranged on, The container's actuating mechanism allows tilting (having been specifically designed to adapt to the type of actuating mechanism, which varies depending on the manufacturer's model and whether the container is "front-axis" or "center-axis"). As for the moving part on the interface device, it is capable of being automatically actuated by the operator via a human-machine interface (for example, by pressing a control button displayed on the interface).According to one characteristic, the moving part is designed and capable of cooperating automatically with the fixed part of the container's actuation mechanism in at least two positions: an active safety position that prevents any actuation of the actuation mechanism (and thus prevents any unintentional tipping of the container, particularly during transport) and corresponds to the additional mechanical safety of a standard container; and an unlocked position that allows the container to tip. Thus, the operator can automatically activate the container's active safety feature while seated, without having to operate it manually, which ensures operator safety. During transport and until the container is positioned above the storage bin, the moving part of the locking and unlocking interface system is in the active position.Once the container is positioned above the storage bin, the operator automatically activates the moving part to switch from the active safety position to the unlocked position. In the unlocked position, the actuating mechanism can be activated at any time to tilt the container. When the container has been emptied, it will automatically tilt back as usual by coming to rest against the edge of the storage bin to return to an upright position, and the actuating mechanism will automatically return to its pre-activation position. The operator can then automatically activate the moving part via the human-machine interface (without leaving the forklift) to return it to the active safety position.

[0030] In one embodiment, the fixed part of the kit includes a light and the moving part includes a rotating cam actuated by a cylinder and, at the end of the cam, a hook which is able to cooperate with the light of the fixed part, the hook being arranged parallel to the general plane of the light in the unlocked position and being arranged in the light and at an angle not parallel to the general plane of the light in the active safety position, the cam being further able to position the hook outside the light (so-called open position) to ensure the installation of the container on the support means of the interface device (without the moving part being engaged in the light of the fixed part).

[0031] According to one feature, the interface device includes viewing means such as a camera and / or a scanner as well as at least one block equipment including power supply, control means for various actuators integrated into the interface device, data processing means which receive data from the visualization means, and remote communication means to remotely control the actuators and remotely transmit data from the visualization means.

[0032] According to one feature, the interface device comprises, particularly in a rear portion, at least one equipment block including the power supply, control means for the various actuators (in particular cylinders) of the interface device, data processing means that receive data from display means located on the interface device, and remote communication means for remotely controlling the actuators, as well as a human-machine interface that may be portable. Preferably, the communication is carried out using a secure wireless technology.

[0033] According to one feature, the interface device is used for at least one waste storage container, in particular for several containers arranged side-by-side, with the interface device positioned at the end of each container. This reduces the required storage area by arranging the containers side by side parallel to their longitudinal direction. The interface device of the invention increases the waste storage volume by 40%: it allows the containers to be positioned side by side, eliminating the wasted space between them, thus increasing the number of containers on the ground by more than 30%; its mobility above a container optimizes the container filling rate to reach 90%.

[0034] The invention also relates to an assembly comprising an interface device of the aforementioned invention and a container in particular tilting.

[0035] The invention also relates to the aforementioned assembly of the invention and at least one storage bin having two upper edges (on the two longitudinal sides of the bin) with which the interface device cooperates for its translational movement when the mobility structure has been actuated. The invention also relates to an assembly comprising an interface device of the invention and a storage bin, in particular the front part of the interface device comprising rolling or sliding elements that cooperate directly with the upper end edges of the storage bin during the translational movement of the mobility structure when the latter has been actuated.The upper end edge of both longitudinal sides of a storage skip serves as a support for the rolling of the front section, in particular for the rolling or sliding of the rolling or sliding components, and therefore for the indirect rolling of the handling container. Thus, the interface device with the container can be... Advantageously, the interface device is reliably moved away from the distal end / edge of the skip to empty the container into a still-empty area of ​​the skip while the operator with their forklift remains positioned at the end of the skip. Moving the interface device, and therefore the container, relative to the storage skip optimizes skip filling.

[0036] Preferably, each rolling or sliding element comprises a bearing surface and at least one flange extending in a plane orthogonal to the plane of the bearing surface and located on the outer side of the interface device (on the outer side of the lateral profile associated with the rolling or sliding element). The flange includes a portion projecting beyond the bearing surface and in the opposite direction to the lateral profile (i.e., downwards in the operating position of the interface device). The flange with its projecting portion serves as a stop surface against the outer wall of the storage bin, thus contributing to the linear guidance of the rolling or sliding elements.

[0037] The present invention is now described by means of purely illustrative and in no way limiting examples of the scope of the invention, and from the accompanying illustrations, in which: - [Fig.1] represents a side-by-side perspective view of a forklift, an example of a common tipping container (trademarked "central axis tipping skip") and an example of an embodiment of an interface device according to the invention for handling and translating a tipping container. - [Fig.2] represents a perspective view of the interface device of [Fig.1] loaded by the forklift and supporting the container. - [Fig.3] shows the front part of the interface device of [Fig.1] in the deployed position and without the container installed. - [Fig.4] is a perspective view of a storage skip placed on the ground and of the entire interface device and container of [Fig.1], lifted by the forklift to the height of the storage skip and before tipping. - [Fig.5] corresponds to [Fig.4], part of the interface device carrying the container having been translated before emptying the container, away from the end of the storage bin in order to optimize the filling of the storage bin. - [Fig. 6] corresponds to [Fig. 4] with another common example of a tipping container (commercially known as a "front-axis tipping skip"), the container being tipped after being advantageously raised beforehand via a lifting system provided by the interface device. In the figure, one of the longitudinal tracks of the storage skip has been removed to visualize the interface device after translation. - [Fig.7] is a rear perspective detail view of the interface device of [Fig.4] at the beginning of deployment relative to the forklift. - [Fig.8] is a partial and top view of the forklift and the interface device of [Fig.1] at the rear without illustrating the equipment block in order to be able to visualize the means of adjusting the spacing of the forklift forks. - [[Fig.9A]] represents a detailed and plunging perspective view of an example of the implementation of the means for locking and unlocking the container on the interface device, remotely operable, the container here being that of [Fig.1], with central axis, and the locking and unlocking means being in an open position allowing the installation of the container on the interface device. - [[Fig.9B]] corresponds to [[Fig.9A]] in an intermediate position called active safety position for which the container is locked in place on the interface device and is prevented from being tilted. - [[Fig.9C]] corresponds to [[Fig.9A]] in an actuation position in which the container is locked in place on the interface device while being able to be tilted. - [[Fig. 10]] corresponds to the intermediate position of [[Fig.9A]] according to the example of container of the [Fig.6] with central axis. - [[Fig. 11]] is a variant of the interface device of [Fig.1]. - [[Fig. 12]] is a detail view of a rolling element of the interface device in cooperation with an upper edge of a storage bin. - [[Fig.1]3] is another embodiment of an interface device of the invention, the interface device being permanently fixed to a discharge dock. - [Fig.13A] illustrates the interface device of the [Fig. 13] slightly raised for placement just below a storage bin. - [[Fig.l]3B] illustrates the interface device of [Fig.l]3 in deployment above a storage bin. - [[Fig.1]4] is another embodiment of an interface device of the invention, the interface device being fixed to the ground and having an additional function of raising a handling container from the ground to the upper plane of the deployable mobility structure, a plane corresponding to the upper plane of a storage bin. - [[Fig.l]4A] corresponds to [Fig.l]4 with the handling container raised to the height of the upper plane of the storage bin. - [[Fig.l]4B] corresponds to [Fig.l]4A with the front part of the interface device in motion above the storage bin. - [[Fig. 15]] is a variant of [Fig. 14] with another type of handling container.

[0038] The interface device 1 for handling and translating a container, illustrated in figures 1 to 7, constitutes an interface device for handling a container 2 with a forklift 3 and being able to translate it at a distance from the forklift.

[0039] Without limitation, the example of use of the interface device 1 of the invention is used with regard to a tipping container 2. The interface device 1 allows the tipping container 2 to be emptied into a storage bin 4 as illustrated in Figures 4 to 6, at a distance from a forklift 3 which will have brought the container 2 to the end of the storage bin.

[0040] Figures 13 and following show other embodiments of an interface device according to the invention, interface devices IA and IB which are installed in a fixed position on the edge of a storage bin or on the ground.

[0041] The container 2 is intended for the temporary storage of waste, for example; it is tiltable so that the waste can subsequently be emptied into the skip 4 after being raised to a height using the forklift 3 and the interface device 1. The skip 4 advantageously comprises longitudinal tracks or guide rails 40 arranged on the longitudinal edges of the skip 4 (Figures 4 to 7) in order to move a portion of the interface device 1, which carries the container 2 above the skip 4, from the end where the forklift 3 is located, towards the opposite end. The guide tracks 40 could also be formed directly from the upper end edges 40' of the skip, as shown in Figures 12 and following.

[0042] Container 2 is a standard commercial container; for example, it has a central axis like the one illustrated in [Fig. 1] or a front axis like the one illustrated in [Fig. 6]. Container 2 with a front axis, in the tilted position, extends further downwards than a container with a central axis.

[0043] Typically, the container 2 comprises a frame 20, a temporary storage container 21 having a rear part 21-1 and a front part 21-2, and two spaced sleeves 22 to receive the forks 30 of the forklift 3. The container 2 has a base for placing it on the ground when not being handled. The base may consist of the sleeves 22 on their underside and / or feet 23 or casters, which may be retractable. The container 21 is capable of adopting an upright position for temporary waste storage and a tilted position for emptying. The container 21 is capable of tilting by being pivotally articulated around an axis, which, in a known manner, may be central or front. The container 2 has an actuating member 24 ([Fig. 7]) allowing, in its In the unlocked position, the container 2 can tilt. This actuating member 24 is located at the rear 21-1 and is usually manually operated. It can have various shapes depending on the container's manufacture (brand). For example, the actuating member 24 is a lever. As will be described later, the interface device 1 includes a locking and unlocking interface system 5 that is interposed between said interface device 1 and the actuating member 24 in order to remotely and automatically control the unlocking of the actuating member so that the container can be in the ready-to-tilt position.

[0044] The interface device 1 is designed to be able to translate the container 2 horizontally beyond the edge of the skip 4 and parallel to the opening plane of the skip 4 in order to be able to dump the waste both at the end of the skip and at a distance from this end (figures 5 and 6).

[0045] The interface device 1 comprises a two-part chassis 10, referred to as the front part 11 and the rear part 12, support means 13 such as a pair of interface profiles 13 attached to the front part 11 and intended to support the container 2, a mobility structure 14, hereinafter referred to as the linking structure, connecting the rear part 12 to the front part 11 and ensuring the translational mobility of the front part 11 of the chassis 10 relative to the rear part 12 (and thus ensuring the mobility of the container 2 relative to the forklift 3 and the skip 4), and rolling or sliding elements 15 arranged on the front part 11 of the chassis to accompany the translation of said front part 11 along the tracks 40 of the skip 4. Preferably, the front part 11 further comprises a lifting system 16 intended for raising the container 2 when the latter is, in particular, at front axle.

[0046] The front portion 11 of the chassis 10 is intended to be positioned under the container 2 ([Fig. 2]) and to support the container 2 by means of its pair of interface profiles 13 ([Fig. 1]). Preferably, the front portion 11 comprises, for its rigidity and functionality, a base 11A and a frame 1IB connected by struts 1IC. As shown in [Fig. 3], the base 1IA is delimited by a so-called transverse beam 11-1, and two lateral profiles 11-2 and 11-3 which extend forward perpendicularly to the transverse beam 11-1. In the example of [Fig. 3], the side profiles 11-2 and 11-3 are fixed and the cross beam 11-1 can be raised or lowered via the lifting system 16 along uprights 11-4 and 11-5 as described later. In [Fig. 3], the side profiles 11-2 and 11-3 are provided on their outer face with the rolling or sliding members 15. In a variant ([Fig.[l 1]), the rolling or sliding members 15 are at the two opposite front and rear ends of the lateral profiles 11-2 and 11-3. Furthermore, in the variant of [Fig. l 1], the interface device 1 does not necessarily have a lifting system 16. Advantageously, the . rolling elements are not motorized; they allow rolling to guide and drive the front part 11 by pushing the mobility structure 14 during deployment.

[0047] The interface profiles 13 are arranged inside the base between and parallel to the lateral profiles 11-2 and 11-3. They are fixed to the crossbeam 11-1. Preferably, they are movable along the crossbeam 11-1 to adjust their position and spacing, as detailed later. Each interface profile 13 is hollow. Each interface profile 13 (attached to the front part 11) is, on the one hand, capable of receiving each fork 30 of the forklift 3 by engagement, and on the other hand, of cooperating by engagement in each sleeve 22 of the container 2. The forks 30 of the forklift 3 only cooperate temporarily with the interface profiles 13 to ensure the insertion of said interface profiles 13 into the sleeves 22 of the container 2.The interface profiles 13 extend lengthwise to cooperate with substantially the entire length of the sleeves 22 in order to support the container 2 without overhang when the container is in an upright position. The interface profiles 13 have dimensions adapted in cross-section for their engagement in the (rectangular) cross-section of the sleeves 22. Preferably, the interface profiles 13 have a U-shaped cross-section.

[0048] The gantry 1 IB of the front part 11 of the interface device 1 comprises two uprights 11-4 and 11-5 fixed to the base 1 IA, specifically at the two lateral profiles 11-2 and 11-3, respectively. The struts 1 IC connect the upper part of the uprights 11-4 and 11-5 to the lateral profiles 11-2 and 11-3. The gantry 11B supports the lifting system 16, which comprises two jacks capable of vertically translating the transverse beam 11-1 along the two uprights 11-4 and 11-5, respectively, in order to raise and lower the interface profiles 13. The lifting system 16 serves, when the container 2 is supported by the interface profiles 13, to raise it as shown in [Fig. 6].This is particularly useful for a front-axis container 2, which, when tilted, projects further downwards than a central-axis container; thus, raising the container 2 allows for more optimal filling of the storage bin 4 and prevents the front of the tilted container 2 from coming into contact with the waste when it returns to its initial position, still in a tilted position.

[0049] The rear part 12 of the interface device 1 ([Fig.l]) includes a base 12A which carries an equipment block 12B comprising the power supply and control means for the various actuators (in particular cylinders) of the interface device as well as remote communication means with a human-machine interface which the operator has at hand in the forklift to remotely control the actuators.

[0050] The rear part 12A, in particular at the base 12A, has ([Fig.7]) a pair of passages 17 for the engagement and support of the forks 30 of the forklift 3. The engagement of the forks 30 in the passages 17 allows the forklift 3 to lift the rear part 12 and consequently to lift the interface device 1 with its front part 11 which supports the container 2 since the rear parts 12 and front parts 11 are connected to each other by the linking structure 14.

[0051] The spacing of the passages 17 is advantageously adjustable to correspond to the spacing of the interface profiles 13 and therefore to the spacing of the sleeves 22 of the container 2. The adjustment of the spacing of the passages 17 is done automatically by means of a system of cylinders 6 ([Fig.8]) which act in push or pull in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the passages 17 and to the direction of the forks 30 in the mounted position of the rear part 12 on the forks 30.

[0052] Furthermore, to secure the interface device 1, in particular to secure the rear portion 12 in the mounted position on the forks 30 of the forklift 3, the interface device 1, in particular the rear portion 12, includes gripping means 12' which are adapted to cooperate preferably with the rising portion 31 of the forks 30 of the forklift (Figures 7 and 8). The gripping means 12' are movable, preferably also by means of cylinders 7, so as to move from a coupling position to a discoupling position, and vice versa, with the rising portion 31 of the forks 30 of the forklift.

[0053] As previously stated, the spacing between the interface profiles 13 is advantageously adjustable to accommodate the spacing of the sleeves 22, which can vary depending on the container 2. The spacing of the interface profiles 13 is adjusted by adjusting the spacing of the passages 17 when the front part 11 is positioned against the rear part 12. Each of the interface profiles 13 ([Fig. 7]) has, externally and on each side of its inlet facing the rear part 12, lateral stops 13' with an indexing function. The lateral stops 13' are preferably oriented angularly outwards with respect to the inlet plane of the interface profiles 13.The lateral stops 13' are adapted to engage in the passages 17 of the rear part 12 (at the exit of said passages 17 and opposite their entrance at the level of which each of the forks 30 of the forklift is inserted); once the lateral stops 13' are inserted into the passages 17, the movement of the passages 17 in one direction or the other via the cylinders 6 mechanically causes the interface profiles 13 to move apart or closer together.

[0054] For the mobility of the front part 11 relative to the rear part 12 (which remains in a fixed position), the linkage structure 14 is a deployment structure operating with jacks 8 to deploy it (Figures 4 and [Fig. 11] in a variant arrangement of the cylinders 8) and fold it (figures 1 and 4). The structure 14 with mobility function for the front part 11 is able to unfold and fold to position the front part 11 against or at a distance from the rear part 12, the base 11A of the front part 11 always remaining in a horizontal plane.

[0055] Preferably, the connecting structure 14 comprises two opposing and parallel compass arms 14A and 14AB, each including a cylinder 8 for its articulation. To ensure rigidity and perfect parallelism of the compass arms 14A and 14B, the front parts of the arms are connected by cross members 14C. Thus, in combination with the rolling or sliding means 15 of the front part 11, the actuation of the cylinders 8 makes it possible to unfold the compass arms 14A and 14B and to push in translation the front part 11 which can thus move away from the rear part 12, and consequently translate and move the container 2 away from the end of the storage bin 4 into the position of use.Once the front part 11, and therefore the container 2, has been moved to the appropriate location in the storage bin 4, the operator can remotely unlock the locking and unlocking interface system 5 (described in more detail below) so as to release the actuating member 24 of the container 2 so that the container 2 can tip over.

[0056] The interface system 5 is designed to allow automated unlocking of the actuating member 24 without requiring modification of the design of said actuating member 24. To this end, the interface system 5 is mounted on the actuating member after its manual safety mechanism has been manually deactivated. The interface system 5 then serves to automatically lock or unlock the actuating member 24 in its free position for operation. The automated locking or unlocking of the actuating member 24 by the interface system 5 thus replaces the manual locking or unlocking of the member 24.

[0057] The interface system 5 comprises two parts: a first part 50, referred to as the fixed part, which is mounted on the actuating member 24, and a second part 51, referred to as the moving part, which is integral with the chassis 10 of the interface device. The moving part 51 is designed to cooperate with the fixed part 50 to lock it in a position referred to as the active safety position or to unlock it, corresponding respectively to the locking or unlocking of the actuating member 24 (the unlocking allowing action on the actuating member when it is desired to tilt the container). Figures 9A to 10 illustrate a non-limiting example of an interface system 5.

[0058] The fixed part 50 of the interface system 5 is an adapter kit component that must be pre-attached to the actuating member 24. The fixed part 50 comprises a portion 50A intended to be attached to the actuating member 24, and a remote portion 50B with a slot 50'. The portion 50A that attaches to the actuating member 24 is, for example, a tubular sleeve that is threaded and secured mechanically around the lever. The offset portion 50B has a shape adapted to the type of lever to cooperate with the moving part 51. The offset portion 50B is notably angled. As shown in Figures 9A and 10, the offset portion 50B presents two examples of different shapes. This adapter kit component is specifically designed for each container model to perfectly fit the actuation element, which may differ depending on the container manufacturer's model.

[0059] The movable part 51 is integral with the front end of the front part 11 of the interface device. In particular, the movable part 51 is integral with the cross beam 11-1, preferably integral with one of the interface profiles 13 at the point where it is attached to the cross beam 11-1. Because the interface profile 13 is movable, this allows for optimized indexing of the interface system 5 with the actuating member (lever) 24. The movable part 51 is movable relative to the fixed part 50 (and therefore relative to the actuating member 24). The movable part 51 is preferably pivotable. The movable part 51 includes a hook 51' which is designed to enter the slot 50' in the fixed part 50 or to disengage from it. The movable part 51 is able to adopt three positions, an open position for which the hook 51' is disengaged from the light 50' ([Fig.9A]), an intermediate position called active safety ([Fig.9B]) for which the hook 51' is (partially) engaged in the slot 50' by being oriented angularly with respect to the opening plane of the slot 50' (i.e., at an angle not parallel to the opening plane of the slot), and a so-called closed or unlocked position for which the hook 51' is fully engaged by being positioned beyond the slot 50' and in a plane parallel to the opening plane of the slot ([Fig. 9C]). The moving part 51 comprises, for example, a rotating cam 52 and a cylinder 53, the translation of the cylinder 53 in one direction or the other causing the rotation of the cam 52 in one direction or the other and consequently the coupling or uncoupling of the hook 51' with the slot 50'. On the [Fig.[9A], the cam 52 is in the open position (the hook 51' is completely clear of the slot 50') so that the fixed part 50 can be fixed to the actuating member (lever) 24 and the container can be installed upright on the interface device when picked up by the forklift. In [Fig. 9B] as in [Fig. 10], the cam 52 is in the active safety position, which places the hook 51' partially engaged in the slot 50' and thus prevents any tilting of the container 2 since the hook 51' is angularly blocked in the slot and therefore prevents the container from pivoting / tilting forward. In [Fig. 9C], the cam 52 is in the unlocked position, which places the hook 51' parallel to the general plane of the slot 50', allowing the container 2 to tilt. The slot 50', which acts as a stop, also has a suitable dimension (according to . its longitudinal dimension parallel to the direction of translation of the interface device) to allow tilting.

[0060] Furthermore, the interface device 1, in particular the front part 11, and even more particularly the underside of the crossbeam 11-1, includes camera-type viewing means 9 ([Fig. 2]). In particular, the viewing means 9 are fixed to the front of the central platform 12-1. This allows the operator (while remaining seated in the forklift 3) to observe the inside of the skip 4 in order to optimize the loading of the skip during waste unloading. In particular, the camera allows: - an aid to positioning when the forklift 3 and the interface device 1 pick up the container from the ground; - improved movement of the forklift 3 when it is carrying the interface device; - assistance in positioning the interface device 1 and therefore the container 2 on the storage skip 4 by centering it in relation to the guide rails 40; - assistance in emptying container 2 by helping to position it correctly in relation to the available space in storage bin 4; - a reading identifying container 2 and storage bin 4 and other associated data (container 2 as well as the storage bin may include for example a barcode type label).

[0061] The display means 9 transmit all information to data processing means internal to the equipment block 12A, which can then be transmitted remotely. The equipment block may also include RFID processing and communication means to communicate, if necessary, with the container 2, the storage bin 4, or the forklift 3, which would be equipped with RFID chips.

[0062] The viewing means 9 may include a scanner for reading the filling profile in the storage bin 4.

[0063] The human-machine interface is provided within easy reach of the operator, such as a touchscreen tablet, and uses a preferably secure wireless communication technology. The human-machine interface communicates with the actuator control means in the equipment block 12B and with the data processing means that receive data from the display means 9. The human-machine interface controls, in particular: - the spacing of the passages 17 and therefore of the interface profiles 13 in relation to the spacing of the sleeves 22 of the container 2 (the spacing dimension can for example be known by the information retrieved from the reading of a barcode on the container by the visualization means 9); - the locking of the gripping means 12' on the forks 30 of the forklift 3; - the cylinder 53 to rotate the cam 52 to the different positions (open position for taking the container 2, end of operation of the interface device 1, unlocking for the authorization to tilt and locking after lifting the container 2 after emptying); - the forward and backward translation of the interface device 1 and therefore of the container 2 along the tracks 40 of the storage skip 4; - stopping in the emptying position; - raising the container 2 (in particular for a container with a front axis) to the height of the inside of the storage skip 4 using the lifting system 16; - pulling on the actuating member 24 for tilting the container 2 and emptying it.

[0064] Figure 11 shows a variant of the interface device 1 which does not have lifting system for the base 11 A. In addition, the rolling or sliding members 15 are arranged at the distal front and rear ends of each of the lateral profiles 11-2 and 11-3. Each rolling or sliding member 15 has a bearing surface intended to bear against the upper end edge 40' of a conventional storage bin 4. Each rolling member 15 here forms a rotating roller or wheel with a rotating axis parallel to the general plane of the base 1 IA and perpendicular to the direction of the lateral profile.

[0065] Figure 12 shows a particular example of a bearing element 15. The element The bearing has the form of a cylindrical roller or wheel rotating with a horizontal axis of rotation. This example is notably used in the interface device of [Fig. 14]. Each bearing element has at least one lateral flange 15' on the outer side of the device, which has a lower portion 15" projecting from the roller's bearing surface. This projecting portion 15" serves as a guide stop along the outer wall of the storage bin 4. Another flange opposite the outer one could also project downwards to cooperate, if necessary, by way of a stop against the inner wall of the storage bin. This [Fig. 12] can correspond to any embodiment of the interface device.

[0066] Figures 13, 13A and 13B illustrate another embodiment of an interface device IA that is not intended to be transported by forklift but is permanently fixed to a dock where a storage skip 4 is located below. The interface device IA also comprises a front part 11, a rear part 12, support means 13 for a handling container 2, a mobility structure 14 for translating the front part 11 relative to the rear part 12, and rolling or sliding elements 15 mounted on the front part 11. The part The rear 12 further comprises additional support means 13” for the container 2 when the mobility structure 14 is folded to support the front part 11 and the container 2 in mid-air. The additional support means 13” for the rear part 12 form elongated, fork-like elements that cooperate with the support means 13 for the front part 11, in particular by inserting into the hollow interface profiles 13 and the sleeves 22 of the container 2. The spacing of the additional support elements 13” can be adjusted in a similar manner to the fork passages 17 of the first embodiment. The interface device IA is fixed by its rear part 12 to the end of a discharge platform below which the storage container 4 is intended to be installed.The interface device IA further includes jacks 60 fixed to the rear portion 12 and to the rear end of the mobility structure 14. The jacks 60 are capable of pivoting the front portion 11, which is supported by the mobility structure 14, in order to lift it ([Fig. 13A]) just enough to allow the storage bin to pass through and be positioned under the interface device IA. Specifically, it is necessary to lift the front portion 11 with the rolling or sliding elements 15 to bring the storage bin 4 underneath (which is slid in by pushing against the platform). Then, the jacks 60 are actuated again to lower the front portion 11 so that the rolling or sliding elements 15 rest on the edge 40' of the longitudinal sides of the storage bin.For use with the AI ​​interface device, the handling container 2, positioned on the support means 13 of the front part 11 of said interface device, can be translated over the storage bin and away from the dock via the mobility structure 14 to fill the storage bin as it extends. As explained above, the translation is assisted by the rolling elements 15 positioned on the front part 11 of the interface device and along the lateral sides.

[0067] It should be noted that, depending on the load to be translated by the mobility structure 14, the cylinders 8 will be adapted. For larger cylinders 8, the interface device IA may include supports 80 arranged on the front part 11, the supports 80 serving to support the cylinders 8 in the rest position (the cylinders being cantilevered).

[0068] Figures 14, 14A, and 14B show another embodiment of an IB interface device of the invention. The IB interface device does not need to be transportable by a forklift and therefore does not necessarily require forklift pockets. The IB interface device is fixed to the ground while including the front portion 11 raised to the height of the top surface of a storage bin 4. A handling container 2 located at ground level and on the IB interface device can be raised to the height of the bin 4 and then moved over and alongside the bin. The IB interface device is designed, like the other interface devices 1 and IA, to be translated above and along a storage bin 4 by means of the mobility structure 14 to move the front part 11 relative to the rear part 12 ([Fig. 14B]). The front part 11 includes a lifting system 16 which is of a different design than the lifting system of interface device 1 in [Fig. 1]. The lifting system 16, which is coupled to the support means 13, allows the handling container 2 to be raised and lowered, in particular lowering the container 2 into a plane that is lower than the upper plane and supporting the rolling or sliding members 15 of the front part 11. In the folded position of the mobility structure 14, the front part 11 is outside the storage bin 4, and the handling container 2 can assume a low position at ground level and a high position at the level of the upper plane of the storage bin.The example shown here is such that the rear section 12 forms a base structure for the interface device IB and functions like an elevator cage for raising and lowering the handling container 2, while the front section 11, with its rolling or sliding means 15, remains at the height of the upper translation plane, above the storage bin (in the folded or deployed position of the mobility structure 14). In particular, the rear section 12 comprises its base 12A resting on the ground and a platform 120 at which the front section 11 is arranged. The support means 13 for the handling container 2, for example, form a frame on which the container 2 rests, and the lifting system 16 is connected to the frame 13. The interface system 5 for locking and unlocking the container 2 for tilting is constituted here by the lifting system 16.The lifting system 16, supported by the front section 11, is, for example, a system with (vertical) chains and motorized sprockets, capable of supporting and lifting the container 2, locking it in position, and unlocking it to tilt it. The container 2 is lifted from the ground ([Fig. 14]) via the lifting system 16 to the platform 120 ([Fig. 14A]), with the mobility structure 14 then in its folded position. The IBest interface device is positioned at the end of the storage bin 4, with the rear section 12 against the bin and the platform 120 located outside the bin and at the height of the bin's top surface. Stage 120 includes stringers 121 which are in alignment with the longitudinal walls of the skip 4 and whose upper edge 121' is coplanar with the upper end edge 40' of the longitudinal walls of the skip.The rolling or sliding members 15 rest, in the folded state of the mobility structure 14 ([Fig. 14]), on the longerons 121 (on the edge 121' of the longerons 121). When the mobility structure 14 is set in motion, the rolling or sliding members 15 cooperate (roll or slide) with the edge 121' of the longerons. 121 then continue their journey cooperating with the 40' sections of the storage skip 4 ([Fig.l4B]).

[0069] Figure 15 corresponds to the interface device IB of the previous embodiment, with a less conventional handling container 2. The container 2 is designed to include a hinged rear tailgate 2' that can be opened when unloading waste from a truck.

Claims

Demands

1. Handling interface device (1) comprising a chassis (10) including a rear part (12) which is fixed and able to be fixed against a fixed structure or to the ground, a front part (11) having support means (13) intended to carry a tilting type container, and a mobility function structure (14) which connects the rear part (12) to the front part (11) and is able to move the front part (11) relative to the rear part (12) in horizontal translation.

2. Interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises jacks (60) which connect the rear bottom of the chassis to the rear of the mobility structure (14), the jacks (60) being able to pivot the front part (11) when it is in position against the rear part (12), said folded position, so as to raise and lower said front part, in particular to raise and lower said front part when it is equipped with rolling or sliding elements (15).

3. Interface device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the rear part (12) comprises additional support means (13”) for a container when the mobility structure is said to be folded, the front part (11) being cantilevered relative to the rear part (12), preferably, the additional support means (13”) form long, fork-like elements which cooperate with the support means (13) of the front part (11), in particular which cooperate by insertion into hollow interface profiles of the support means (13).

4. An interface device according to claim 1, characterized in that the rear portion (12) constitutes a support structure for the interface device comprising a base (12A) and a platform (120), the front portion (11) is arranged vertically in the plane of the platform, and the interface device comprises a lifting and lowering system (16) coupled to, or further constituting, the support means (13), the lifting and lowering system being capable of raising and lowering the support means between the base and the platform when the front portion (11) is arranged fully against the rear portion (12) in the so-called folded position of the structure with a mobility function (14), preferably the lifting and lowering system (16) being a system with motorized chains and sprockets.

5. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the structure (14) with mobility function is capable of deploying and folding, preferably said structure (14) being actuated by jacks (8), in particular said structure (14) comprising two opposing and parallel compass arms (14A, 14B).

6. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises an automated locking and unlocking interface system (5) for ensuring the locking and unlocking of the tilting of a container, in particular the locking and unlocking interface system (5) comprising a movable locking and unlocking part (51) which is fixed on the interface device, in particular at the front of the interface device to cooperate with the container.

7. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises rolling or sliding members (15) which are carried by the front part (H).

8. Interface device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that each rolling or sliding member (15) comprises a bearing surface and at least one flange (15') extending in a plane orthogonal to the plane of the bearing surface and disposed on the outside of the interface device, the flange comprising a portion projecting out from the bearing surface and in the opposite direction of the lateral profile.

9. Interface device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises viewing means (9) such as a camera and / or a scanner and at least one equipment block (12B) including the power supply, control means for various actuators (6, 7, 8, 53) integrated into the interface device, data processing means which receive data from the viewing means (9) and remote communication means for remotely controlling the actuators and remotely transmitting data from the viewing means.

10. Assembly comprising an interface device according to any one of the preceding claims and a storage bin (4), in particular the front part (11) of the interface device (1) comprising rolling or sliding members (15) which cooperate directly with upper end edges of the storage bin during translational movement of the structure (14) with a mobility function when the latter has been actuated.

Images