Filling trolley and installation comprising such a filling trolley

Abstract

Filling trolley comprising: a chassis (17) provided with at least one reservoir (16) intended to contain balls, at least one chute (19) extending from the inside of the chassis (17) to the outside of the chassis (17), the chute (19) extending towards the rear of the chassis (17), at least one conveying means (18) for raising the balls in use from the reservoir (16) into the chute (19), at least one positioning sensor (22), the positioning sensor (22) oriented towards the rear of the chassis (17) like the chute (19). Abstract figure: Fig. 3

Description

Title of the invention: Filling trolley and installation comprising such a filling trolley

[0001] The invention relates to a filling trolley.

[0002] The invention also relates to an installation comprising such a filling trolley.

[0003] TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The overall architecture of an electrolyzer stack is usually made up of a block of electrolytic cells, which are stacked in series from an electrical point of view and in parallel from a fluidic point of view, and of joints.

[0005] The purpose of each electrolytic cell is to promote the electrolysis of an electrolytic solution (alkaline water, pure water, unpurified water, salt, aqueous chloride solution, aqueous bromide solution, aqueous hydrochloric acid solution, etc.).

[0006] For example, the functionality of an electrolyzer stack is to promote the reaction of production of dihydrogen (H2) and dioxygen (O2) gas resulting from the dissociation of water after injecting a direct electric current into an alkaline solution, generally potassium hydroxide (KOH) or sodium hydroxide (NaOH).

[0007] Each electrolytic cell, considered as a mainly metallic and conductive part (but some parts of which may be non-metallic), is generally composed of two bipolar plates, framing two interlayers (better known under the English term "flow field material"), themselves framing two electrodes generally in the form of plates or grids or metal fabrics. In the case of an alkaline electrolyzer stack, said electrodes are generally made of nickel. The two electrodes (a cathode and an anode) are separated by a membrane (also called a diaphragm or porous separator in the case of the alkaline electrolyzer), which ensures electrical insulation between the two electrodes, the separation of gases as well as ionic conduction within the electrolytic cell.

[0008] The interlayer has two functionalities: i) to provide a low resistivity metallic path between each bipolar plate and the associated electrode and ii) to allow appropriate circulation of the electrolytic solution for cooling the electrolyser stack and transporting the generated gases.

[0009] The name bipolar plate comes from the fact that as the electrolytic cells are all placed next to each other, an N bipolar plate will have a potential:

[0010] - higher compared to the downstream N+l bipolar plate, so that the plate bipolar N will play the role of anode within an electrolytic cell defined by the N and N+1 bipolar plates;

[0011] - weaker compared to the upstream bipolar plate Nl, so that the plate bipolar N will play the role of cathode within an electrolytic cell defined by the bipolar plates Nl and N.

[0012] Among the other metal parts, in addition to the bipolar plates, are listed the distribution plates (which allow the power supply and electrical distribution of the electrolytic cells) as well as the bottom plates (allowing the delimiting of the set of electrolytic cells and ensuring the clamping of said electrolytic cells between them and their sealing).

[0013] Indeed, the electrolyser stack ends with two bottom plates located just before the first electrolytic cell and just after the last stacked electrolytic cell, in other words one bottom plate is located upstream of the block of electrolytic cells and the other bottom plate is placed downstream of the latter in order to physically delimit the two ends of said block of electrolytic cells.

[0014] The electrolytic solution present in each electrolytic cell as well as the gases produced by the electrolysis (such as gaseous dihydrogen, gaseous dioxygen, gaseous chlorine and halogen gas, etc.) must not leak from the edge of the diaphragm to the outside of the electrolytic cell in question but must circulate only through the dedicated pipes (each pipe being dedicated either to the electrolyte alone, or to the electrolyte mixed with one of the gases, taking into account that the two gases cannot also mix with each other).

[0015] The electrolyser stack cannot therefore operate continuously if a leak is detected, said leak coming either from the electrolytic solution, or from the gases generated by the electrolysis, or from any other substance. In many cases then, various problems having a negative consequence on the environment but also on the safety of the operators arise, presenting a variable degree of severity while considering that the latter can reach a significantly high value linked to irreversible consequences.

[0016] Conventionally, in an electrolytic cell such as that described above, the assembly followed in order to avoid any leakage from the electrolytic solution, the gas(es) generated by the electrolysis and / or any other substance, from the edge of the diaphragm of the electrolytic cell to the outside of said electrolytic cell, is based on the use of several thin plate-shaped seals or several toric rings ("O-rings" in English), and often made of elastomer, so that said seals or rings are arranged between the anode and the cathode or the membrane of an electrolytic cell, or directly between two adjacent bipolar plates. Thus, the diaphragm is sandwiched between these different sealing elements.

[0017] Within the device, and in particular within the electrolyser stack, many constituent elements intended to be in contact with the electrolyte are protected by a layer of nickel, commonly called "nickel plating". The objective followed by applying a layer of nickel is firstly to allow good resistance to corrosion and secondly to prevent dihydrogen and / or dioxygen from insinuating everywhere into these fundamental elements of the electrolyser stack mentioned above, and more particularly where the asperities appear. In other words, it is imperative that said layer of nickel be as homogeneous as possible to limit any leakage of dihydrogen and / or dioxygen, however minimal it may be.

[0018] From a practical point of view, poor nickel plating is detected by the presence of brownish spots inside the said elements defined above or highlighted by a copper sulfate test. In the second case, if the copper sulfate sticks to the potentially nickel-plated area, this means that the nickel has not adhered correctly and effectively. In both cases, this verification is carried out during the manufacture of the various parts of the electrolyser, in other words when the different constituent elements of the electrolyser are nickel-plated and assembled.

[0019] Among these, the bipolar plate plays a major role in the operation of the electrolyser stack as explained above. This is why it is imperative that it be subjected to the most perfect and homogeneous nickel plating possible during the overall assembly of the electrolytic cell, otherwise the efficiency of said electrolytic cell will be reduced while highlighting the defects defined previously (corrosion and leakage of dihydrogen and / or dioxygen).

[0020] This step of nickel plating the bipolar plate, well known in the state of the art, takes place in specific nickel baths. More precisely, the "virgin" bipolar plate is moved from a loading zone to a specific nickel bath and then transferred to an unloading zone.

[0021] Before the bath, the bipolar plate is suspended from a bar by means of a hook. The bipolar plate is then dipped into the nickel plating bath and an electric current is passed through the bar. The electric current, via the hook, can thus pass through the bipolar plate, causing it to be nickel-plated.

[0022] Currently, the nickel plating bath is formed by adding nickel balls to a solution. For this purpose, an operator pours nickel balls into a titanium basket and then the titanium basket is in turn moved to be immersed in the solution.

[0023] Because nickel is a very dense metal, an operator must unfortunately manually dump bags containing small quantities of nickel balls into the basket several times in order to fill it.

[0024] Such an operation proves restrictive for the operator and presents safety risks due to the repeated payments by the operator. Nickel balls can in fact escape during pouring, which can be dangerous for the operator (risk of falling, injury, particularly to the feet, etc.).

[0025] Such an operation also proves to be relatively precise because it relies solely on the operator for the quantity of nickel balls poured.

[0026] SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0027] An aim of the invention is to propose a solution making it possible to at least partially overcome the aforementioned drawbacks. Summary of the invention

[0028] For this purpose, according to the invention, a filling trolley is provided comprising:

[0029] a chassis provided with at least one reservoir intended to contain balls,

[0030] at least one chute extending from the inside of the chassis to the outside of the chassis, the chute extending towards the rear of the chassis,

[0031] at least one conveying means for bringing the balls up in service from the reservoir into the chute,

[0032] at least one positioning sensor, the sensor being oriented towards the rear of the chassis like the chute.

[0033] Thus, the carriage allows faster and easier filling of at least one basket with balls and for example with metal balls and for example with nickel balls.

[0034] In particular, an operator does not need to manually pour the balls into the top of the basket: the balls actually rise from the reservoir into the chute via the conveying means, the chute then pouring the balls directly into the basket.

[0035] Advantageously, the positioning sensor allows the trolley to position itself more precisely in relation to the basket, which contributes to faster and easier filling of the basket.

[0036] Subsequently, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “high”, “low”, etc. must be understood according to the service position of the trolley, i.e. the one in which the trolley rests on the ground ready to pour balls into at least one basket.

[0037] Optionally, the conveying means is a worm screw.

[0038] Optionally, the carriage comprises at least one second positioning sensor.

[0039] Optionally, the trolley comprises at least one sensor for detecting a filling level intended to detect the filling level of balls poured by the trolley into a basket opposite the trolley.

[0040] Optionally, the detection sensor is arranged at the level of the chute.

[0041] Optionally, the chute is movable relative to the chassis between a rest position and a working position.

[0042] Optionally, the carriage includes a system of at least one stop associated with the chute to define its working position.

[0043] The invention also relates to an installation comprising at least one row of baskets and at least one carriage as mentioned above capable of moving relative to said row of baskets.

[0044] Optionally, the installation comprises a rail extending along the row of baskets, the carriage cooperating with the rail to slide along the row of baskets.

[0045] Optionally, the installation includes a loading station capable of loading the tank of the trolley with balls.

[0046] Optionally, the loading station is arranged at a longitudinal end of the row of baskets.

[0047] Optionally the row of baskets is a first row of baskets, the installation comprising a second row of baskets arranged in the opposite direction from the first row of baskets.

[0048] Optionally, the loading station comprises at least one upper tank to which at least one outlet pipe is connected.

[0049] Optionally, the tank is equipped with at least one cutting member.

[0050] Optionally, the loading station comprises a sensor for detecting a filling level intended to detect the filling level of balls poured by the loading station into the trolley.

[0051] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from reading the following description of a particular and non-limiting embodiment of the invention. Brief description of the drawings

[0052] Reference will be made to the accompanying drawings, among which:

[0053] [Fig-1] [Fig.l] is a schematic perspective view of an installation according to a particular embodiment of the invention;

[0054] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of part of the installation shown in [Fig.l];

[0055] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of another part of the installation re presented in [Fig.l]. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0056] With reference to figures 1 to 3, the installation 1 according to a particular embodiment of the invention is at least configured to allow the filling of at least one basket with balls and for example with metal balls and for example with nickel balls.

[0057] In the present case, the installation 1 comprises at least a first row 2 of baskets 3 (only a part being referenced here) intended to receive the balls. baskets 3 are for example made of titanium. The baskets 3 thus extend successively one after the other in a first direction X. The first direction X is for example horizontal.

[0058] The first row 2 of baskets 3 comprises at least three baskets 3 and for example at least five baskets 3 and for example at least ten baskets 3 and for example at least fifteen baskets 3. The data indicated above are not limiting and the number of baskets 3 may thus be different from what has been indicated. Each basket 3 here extends longitudinally parallel to a second direction Y which is orthogonal to the first direction X. Each basket 3 here extends vertically. The first direction Y is thus vertical.

[0059] The different baskets 3 extend one after the other along the first direction X and parallel to each other.

[0060] The installation 1 also comprises at least one loading station 4 for balls and at least one first carriage 5 for filling the baskets 3 of the first row 2 with balls.

[0061] Preferably, the loading station 4 is arranged at one of the ends of the first row 2 of baskets 3.

[0062] Even more preferably, the installation 1 is configured such that the first filling cart 5 can move from the loading station 4 to at least one of the baskets 3 of the first row 2 and preferably up to the basket 3 of the first row 2 furthest from the loading station 4.

[0063] For example, the first filling cart 5 is arranged in the installation 1 so as to be able to slide along the first row 2. For example, the installation 1 comprises a first rail 6 resting on the ground, the first rail 6 in which the first filling cart 5 is received for sliding. Preferably, the loading station 4 is arranged at one of the longitudinal ends of the first rail 6.

[0064] The first rail 6 is arranged along the first row 2. The first row 2 thus forms an edge of the first rail 6. The first rail 6 extends for example parallel to the first direction X.

[0065] The first filling carriage 5 can thus slide parallel to the first direction X from right to left and vice versa.

[0066] The first filling carriage 5 can thus slide along the first row 2 between a first end position where the first filling carriage 5 is at the level of the loading station 4 and a second end position where the first filling carriage 5 is at the level of the basket 3 of the first row 2 furthest from the loading station 4.

[0067] The movement of the first filling carriage 5 along the first row 2 is optionally motorized by at least one actuation system and / or is ensured by an operator.

[0068] Preferably, the installation 1 is at least configured to allow the filling of at least one second row 7 of baskets 8 (of which only a part is referenced here) with balls and for example with metal balls and for example with nickel balls.

[0069] The installation 1 therefore comprises at least a second row 7 of baskets 8 intended to receive the balls. The baskets 8 are for example made of titanium. The baskets 8 thus extend successively one after the other in the first direction X. The second row 7, however, extends opposite the first row 2 with respect to the loading station 4. Thus, the first row 2 and the second row 7 are symmetrical with respect to the loading station 4 along an orthogonal axis of symmetry defined along the second direction Y. The orthogonal axis of symmetry here extends vertically.

[0070] The second row 7 comprises at least three baskets 8 and for example at least five baskets 8 and for example at least ten baskets 8 and for example at least fifteen baskets 8. The data indicated above are not limiting and the number of baskets 8 may thus be different from what has been indicated. Each basket 8 here extends longitudinally parallel to the second direction Y. Each basket 8 here extends vertically.

[0071] The different baskets 8 extend one after the other along the second direction X and parallel to each other.

[0072] The installation 1 also comprises at least one second carriage 9 for filling the baskets 8 of the second row 7 with balls.

[0073] Preferably, the loading station 4 is arranged at one of the ends of the second row 7.

[0074] More preferably, the installation 1 is shaped so that the second filling carriage 9 can move from the loading station 4 to at least one of the baskets 8 of the second row 7 and preferably to the basket 8 of the second row 7 furthest from the loading station 4.

[0075] For example, the second filling carriage 9 is arranged in the installation 1 so as to be able to slide along the second row 7. For example, the installation 1 comprises a second rail 10 resting on the ground, second rail 10 in which the second filling carriage 9 is slidably received. Preferably, the loading station 4 is arranged at one of the longitudinal ends of the second rail 10.

[0076] The second rail 10 is arranged along the second row 7. The second row 7 thus forms an edge of the second rail 10. The second rail 10 extends for example parallel to the first direction X.

[0077] The second filling carriage 9 can thus slide parallel to the first X direction from right to left and vice versa.

[0078] The second filling carriage 9 can thus slide along the second row 7 between a first end position where the second filling carriage 9 is level with the loading station 4 and a second end position where the second filling carriage 9 is level with the basket 8 of the second row 7 furthest from the loading station 4.

[0079] The movement of the second filling carriage 9 along the second row 7 is optionally motorized by at least one actuation system and / or is ensured by an operator.

[0080] As the second row 7 extends opposite the first row 2, the loading station 4 is located between the two rows 2, 7.

[0081] The installation 1 thus described has a central loading station 4 and, on either side of this 4, rows 2, 7 of baskets 3, 8, each of which 2, 7 is associated respectively with a filling trolley 5, 9.

[0082] We will now describe the loading station 4.

[0083] The loading station 4 comprises a tank 11 arranged in the upper part of the loading station 4. The tank 11 is completely open in its upper part or partially open in its upper part. The inlet of the tank 11 is thus drawn by this opening. In this way, balls can be poured into the tank 11 from the top of the loading station 4 (and therefore from the top of the tank 11).

[0084] The tank 11 is for example shaped like a funnel narrowing in the direction Y but in the opposite direction, in other words towards the ground.

[0085] The tank 11 also has at least one outlet and in this case has at least two outlets.

[0086] Each outlet is associated with a respective one of the rows 2, 7 on the one hand and with the tank 11 on the other hand. For example, each of the outlets is shaped as a pipe 12 extending from the tank 11 towards a respective one of the rows 2, 7.

[0087] For example, each pipe 12 is shaped as a closed channel opening at a first end into the tank 11 and opening at a second end at the level of one of the respective rows 2, 7.

[0088] For example, each pipe 12 has an elbow. For example, each pipe 12 comprises a first section 13a extending rectilinearly in an inclined manner between its first end and the elbow. The first end opens, for example, into the bottom of the tank 11. For example, each pipe 12 comprises a second section 13b which extends rectilinearly from the elbow to the second end of the pipe 12, the second section 13b extending transversely or perpendicularly to the first section 13a. Preferably, the second section 13b extends vertically (here parallel to the second direction Y) with the second end facing the ground. Preferably, the installation 1 is configured so that, when each filling carriage 5, 9 is in its first end position, the second end of the associated pipe 12 opens above a reservoir 16 of said filling carriage 5, 9. The balls thus pour into the filling carriage 5, 9 obliquely in a first time and vertically in a second time from the pipe 12 according to the speed of discharge of the balls.

[0089] Preferably, the two pipes 12 extend symmetrically on either side of the tank 11 along at least one axis of symmetry. Said axis of symmetry is for example vertical. Said axis of symmetry passes for example through the center of the tank 11 and / or the loading station 4. This configuration is similar to that described previously with regard to the respective position of the rows 2, 7.

[0090] Preferably, the loading station 4 comprises at least one cutting member 14. Said cutting member 14 is for example arranged in the tank 11 and for example inside the tank 11. Said cutting member 14 is for example arranged along one of the sides of the tank 11 and / or in the center of the latter 11 and / or above the first end of at least one of the pipes 12. Said cutting member 14 is for example a cutting member such as for example and in a non-limiting manner a notched blade. Optionally, two cutting members 14 can be arranged in the tank 11 for example on opposite walls of the tank 11.

[0091] Preferably, the filling station 4 is provided with at least one detection sensor 15. Said detection sensor 15 is, for example, a sensor for detecting the filling level of the tank 16 of the associated filling carriage 5, 9. For example, the detection sensor 15 is an optical sensor. For example, the detection sensor 15 directs a measuring beam towards the bottom of the tank 16, which makes it possible to estimate the filling level of the tank 16. For example, the measuring beam extends along at least one axis which is optionally vertical.

[0092] Preferably, said detection sensor 15 is carried by one of the pipes 12. For example, each of the pipes 12 is equipped with such a detection sensor 15 to estimate the filling level of the associated filling carriage 5, 9. The filling carriages 5, 9 are thus arranged in their first end position so that their reservoir 16 extends under the beam of the detection sensor 15 opposite so that the latter 15 can reach the bottom of the reservoir 16.

[0093] We will now describe one of the filling trolleys 5, 9. The two filling trolleys 5, 9 are in fact identical here so that the following description of the first filling trolley 5 is also applicable here to the second filling trolley 9. This application is of course not limiting and it will be possible to have two different filling trolleys 5, 9 within the same installation 1.

[0094] The first filling carriage 5 comprises a chassis 17 provided with a reservoir 16 arranged in the upper part of the chassis 17. The reservoir 16 is completely open in its upper part or partially open in its upper part. The inlet of the reservoir 16 is thus drawn by this opening. In this way, balls can be poured into the reservoir 16 from the top of the first filling carriage 5 (and therefore from the top of the reservoir 16).

[0095] The reservoir 16 is for example shaped like a funnel narrowing in the Y direction but in the opposite direction, in other words towards the ground. The reservoir 16 also extends substantially parallel to the Y direction.

[0096] The first filling carriage 5 further comprises at least one means 18 for conveying the balls from the reservoir 16 to a chute 19 of the first filling carriage 5. The conveying means 18 is for example a vibrated tube or a conveying screw. For example, the conveying means 18 is an endless screw or Archimedes screw.

[0097] The conveying means 18 extends here from the tank 16 towards the first row 2. Preferably, the tank 16 is located at the front of the first filling carriage 5 and the conveying means 18 at the rear of the first filling carriage 5 between the tank 16 and the first row 2.

[0098] Preferably, the conveying means 18 is motorized. For this purpose, the first filling carriage 5 comprises at least one actuator of the conveying means 18. The actuator is for example a motor driving the conveying means 18 in rotation.

[0099] As already indicated, the first filling carriage 5 comprises a chute 19 associated with the conveying means 18.

[0100] For example, the chute 19 has an upper end connected to the conveying means 18 and a lower end extending above the first row 2.

[0101] Preferably, the chute 19 is shaped as a closed channel opening at its two lower and upper ends.

[0102] For example, the chute 19 has an elbow. For example, the chute 19 comprises a first section 20a extending rectilinearly in an inclined manner between its upper end and the elbow. For example, the chute 19 comprises a second section 20b which extends rectilinearly from the elbow to the lower end of the chute 19, the second section 20b extending transversely or perpendicularly to the first section 20a. Preferably, the second section 20b extends vertically (here parallel to the second direction Y) with the second opening facing the ground. The second section 20b also extends substantially parallel to the direction Y but in the opposite direction, in other words towards the ground. The balls thus flow into the basket 3, opposite the chute 19, vertically from chute 19.

[0103] The chute 19 extends here from the first filling carriage 5 towards the first row 2. Preferably, the reservoir 16 is located at the front of the first filling carriage 5 and the chute 19 at the rear of the first filling carriage 5 between the reservoir 16 and the first row 2.

[0104] Preferably the first filling carriage 5 is provided with at least one detection sensor 21. Said detection sensor 21 is for example a sensor 21 for detecting the filling level of the basket 3 opposite the first filling carriage 5. For example the detection sensor 21 is an optical sensor. For example the detection sensor 21 directs a measuring beam towards the bottom of the basket 3 in question which makes it possible to estimate the filling level of said basket 3. For example, the measuring beam extends along at least one axis which is optionally vertical. Preferably, said detection sensor 21 is carried by the chute 19.

[0105] Furthermore, the first filling carriage 5 comprises at least one positioning sensor 22. The positioning sensor 22 is for example a sensor for positioning the first filling carriage 5 relative to the first row 2. Said positioning sensor 22 is for example a sensor for detecting the presence of at least one characteristic element of a basket 3 such as for example the upright M of a basket 3 (upright M making it possible to fix the basket 3 to a support such as for example a bar B as described below) - only a part of the uprights being referenced here. For example, the positioning sensor 22 is an optical sensor. For example, the sensor directs a measuring beam towards the first row 2 which makes it possible to estimate the relative position between the first filling carriage 5 and at least one of the baskets 3 of the first row 2. For example, the measuring beam extends along at least one axis which is optionally horizontal..

[0106] Furthermore, the first filling carriage 5 comprises at least one positioning sensor 23. The positioning sensor 23 is for example a sensor for positioning the first filling carriage 5 relative to the first row 2. Said positioning sensor 23 is for example a sensor for detecting the presence of at least one characteristic element of a basket 3 such as for example the upright of a basket 3. For example, the positioning sensor 23 is an optical sensor. For example, the positioning sensor 23 directs a measuring beam towards the first row 2 which makes it possible to estimate the relative position between the first filling carriage 5 and at least one of the baskets 3 of the first row 2. For example, the measuring beam extends along at least one axis which is optionally horizontal.

[0107] Preferably, the two positioning sensors 22, 23 are arranged to detect one the right upright and the other the left upright of the same basket 3 when the first filling carriage 5 is opposite said basket 3. This ensures that the first filling carriage 5 is properly centered with respect to said basket 3. In particular, when each of the positioning sensors 22, 23 detects an amount of the same basket 3, the chute 19 extends above the basket 3 in question, and for example a few centimeters above the basket 3 in question, while being centered with respect to said basket 3.

[0108] Preferably, the chute 19 is deployable in the first filling carriage 5 between a rest position in which it is distant from the first row 2 and a working position in which its second end extends above the baskets 3. For example, the chute 19 passes from its rest position to its working position in a deployment direction Z which is orthogonal to the first direction X and to the second direction Y. For example, said deployment direction Z is horizontal.

[0109] The movement of the chute 19 between its rest position and its working position is done for example by translation and / or by rotation and / or by telescoping of the chute 19. Preferably, the conveying means 18 remains fixed relative to the chassis 17. It is the deployment of the chute 19 which makes it possible to manage the distance between the first filling carriage 5 and the first row 2.

[0110] This deployment of the chute 19 is preferably motorized. The deployment of the chute 19 is controlled automatically and / or manually. For this purpose, the first filling carriage 5 may be provided with at least one control button 24 for the deployment of the chute 19, control button 24 arranged on the front face of the chassis 17 (i.e. opposite the face of the chassis 17 facing the first row 2). Preferably, the first filling carriage 5 is provided with two control buttons 24 for the deployment of the chute 19, control buttons 24 arranged on the front face of the chassis 17 and on opposite edges of said front face of the chassis 17. This makes it possible to reinforce the safety of the assembly, the operator having to activate the two control buttons 24 simultaneously to be able to deploy or retract the chute 19.

[0111] Preferably, the first filling carriage 5 comprises at least one system of at least one stop for defining at least one of the rest or working positions of the chute 19. Preferably, the system comprises at least one stop for defining the working position of the chute 19. Preferably, the system comprises at least two stops 25a, 25b for defining the working position of the chute 19.

[0112] For example, each of the stops 25a, 25b is integral in movement with the chute 19 so that the stops 25a, 25b are deployed towards the first row 2 with the chute 19. The stops 25a, 25b therefore move towards the first row 2 according to at least one translation movement according to the third direction Z.

[0113] When the stops 25a, 25b each come into contact with one of the respective uprights of the basket 3 in question, the deployment of the chute 19 is stopped, the chute 19 being in its working position. The deployment can be stopped manually and / or automatically. For example, a light and / or sound indicator preferably arranged on the first filling carriage 5 can be triggered. This can make it possible to warn the operator that the chute 19 is in its rest position and therefore that he can stop the deployment of the chute 19 (for example by stopping pressing the buttons 24).

[0114] Preferably, the free end of at least one of the stops 25a, 25b (i.e. the one intended to come into contact with one of the uprights of the basket 3 in question) is provided with an elastically deformable element (pad, spring, etc.). Thus, said elastically deformable element will come to be crushed against the associated upright when the chute 19 is in its working position.

[0115] Optionally, the deformation of said elastically deformable element is measured continuously (for example by at least one sensor carried by the first filling carriage 5 such as for example a force sensor): as soon as the tension felt by the elastically deformable element reaches a threshold value, a signal is managed to stop the deployment of the chute 19.

[0116] The installation 1 is preferably used for filling the baskets 3 with balls and for example with metal balls and for example with nickel balls, so that said balls can be used in one or more electroplating bath(s). This(these) electroplating bath(s) is(are) for example used for the electroplating of one or more part(s) and for example one or more part(s) of an electrolyser stack and for example one or more bipolar plate(s).

[0117] Furthermore, each row 2, 7 of baskets 3, 8 is arranged so that all the baskets 3, 8 of said row 2, 7 are attached (by means of their uprights) to the same anode bar B. Thus, when the latter is brought into a treatment bath (for example by a robot), it carries with it the entire row of associated baskets 3, 8.

[0118] It is noted that the two bars B arranged to the right and left of the loading station 4 are not symmetrical along a vertical axis of symmetry passing through the center of the installation 1 (here passing through the center of the loading station 4). This is due in particular to the fact that the baskets 3, 8 are mounted in different orientations on the same bar B. In fact, for the same bar B, the baskets 3, 8 are arranged in a succession of “left” baskets (defining a first relative orientation with respect to the bar B) and a succession of “right” baskets (defining a second relative orientation with respect to the bar B). In the same way, we can thus speak of a right bar B and a left bar B in installation 1.

[0119] In operation, an operator places a bag of balls in the tank 11. Such a bag usually weighs around a ton or more. Such a bag is for example placed in the tank 11 by means of a lifting machine for example or any other lifting means.

[0120] When the bag of balls comes into contact with the at least one cutting member 14, said bag of balls is torn at its base: the balls then fill the tank 11.

[0121] Preferably, the first ends of the right and left pipes 12 are associated with valves making it possible to temporarily block access to the right and left pipes 12. For example, at least one of the valves comprises a disc fixed relative to the tank 11 and a disc mounted to rotate relative to the fixed disc. The two discs are drilled so that, depending on the relative position between the fixed disc and the disc mounted to rotate, the holes in the discs are opposite each other (allowing access to the associated pipe) or the holes are offset (blocking access to the associated pipe).

[0122] If one of the filling carriages 5, 9 is in its first end position (for example the first filling carriage 5), the associated valve of the pipe 12 is then open and the balls pour from the tank 11 into the pipe 12 then into the reservoir 16 of the first filling carriage 5. The opening of the valve can be automatic (following for example the emission of a signal from the detection sensor 15 making it possible to detect the presence of the first filling carriage 5) or manual.

[0123] The discharge stops when the target filling level is reached. This stop can be automatic (for example following the emission of a signal from the detection sensor 15) or manual (for example following the emission of a light and / or sound signal based on the generation of a signal from the detection sensor 15). For this purpose, the valve associated with the pipe 12 in question is closed.

[0124] The first filling carriage 5 is then moved along the first rail 6.

[0125] When the positioning sensors 22, 23 detect that the first carriage of filling 5 is opposite one of the baskets 3 of the first row 2 associated with the first filling carriage 5 (preferably the basket 3 of the first row 2 closest to the loading station 4), the first filling carriage 5 is automatically locked in position relative to said first row 2.

[0126] The operator then requests the deployment of the chute 19 by pressing the control buttons 24. When the indicator is activated (signifying that the stops 25a, 25b are in place against the uprights), the operator stops the deployment of the chute 19. It is noted that the stops 25a, 25b make it possible to ensure that the chute 19 is correctly positioned relative to the basket 3 in question and / or ... stabilized in position relative to basket 3.

[0127] From there, the balls are poured from the reservoir 16 of the first filling carriage 5 into the basket 3 via the conveying means 18. The conveying means 18 therefore makes it possible to raise the balls from the reservoir 16 to the chute 19. For example, the balls fall by gravity from the conveying means 18 into the chute 19.

[0128] The discharge stops when the target filling level is reached. This stop can be automatic (for example following the emission of a signal from the filling sensor 21) or manual (for example following the emission of a light and / or sound signal based on the generation of a signal from the filling sensor 21). For example, when the indicator is activated, the operator can then stop the discharge of the balls and control the retraction of the chute 19 so that it returns to its rest position.

[0129] From this moment, the first filling carriage 5 is unlocked (manually or automatically) and is thus moved again along the first rail 6 until its positioning sensors 22, 23 detect the uprights of the adjacent basket 3 and cause the first filling carriage 5 to be blocked again.

[0130] The steps described above are then repeated with the new basket 3.

[0131] Thanks to this translation of the first filling carriage 5, it is possible to individually feed each basket 3 of the first row 2 one after the other until the first row 2 has all of its baskets 3 filled with balls.

[0132] It is understood that what has been described above with reference to the first filling carriage 5 and the first row 2 is also applicable to the second filling carriage 9 and the second row 7.

[0133] The installation 1 thus described proves to be more ergonomic for the operator who in particular does not need to manually fill the baskets 3, 8 with balls.

[0134] The installation 1 thus described makes it possible to increase the rate of filling of the baskets 3, 8 and / or to increase the dimensions of the baskets 3, 8 and / or to increase the mass of balls filling each basket 3, 8 compared to the devices of the prior art.

[0135] As a result, the installation 1 thus described allows the anode bars B to be brought more regularly into the treatment baths, which also makes it possible to increase the rate of electroplating of the parts.

[0136] The installation 1 thus described also makes it possible to make the filling of the baskets 3, 8 more secure. In particular, the filling of the baskets 3, 8 is no longer carried out manually, which limits the risk of balls overflowing outside the basket. 3, 8.

[0137] The installation 1 thus described also makes it possible to reduce the costs in terms of loss of balls for the same reason as that developed in the point above.

[0138] Preferably, the installation 1 comprises the electroplating baths.

[0139] The installation 1 thus comprises one or more robot(s) transporting the anode bars B (carrying rows 2 and 7) into one of the electroplating baths. The robot or another robot also brings the part to be treated itself suspended from a cathode bar.

[0140] Within the electroplating bath, the part to be treated is thus surrounded by a left anodic bar B on one side and a right anodic bar B on the other side.

[0141] From this moment, the electrolytic electroplating of the part begins by injecting a certain quantity of electric current into the anode bar B. As the electrolytic electroplating of the part progresses, there appears a decrease in the quantity of balls present in each basket 3, 8 attached to the respective anode bar B. This quantity of balls consumed in each basket 3, 8 is directly linked and proportional to the quantity of electric current passing through the associated anode bar B.

[0142] Thus, a control unit associated with the treatment bath estimates the quantity of balls consumed in each basket 3, 8 over time and triggers a signal when a threshold of minimum quantity of balls present in each basket 3, 8 is reached.

[0143] Subsequently, a robot removes the defective anodic bar B from the treatment bath in order to bring it back to the loading station 4.

[0144] This defective anodic bar B together with its row of baskets 3, 8 is then reloaded according to the steps described above.

[0145] Simultaneously, a robot goes to fetch an anodic bar B whose baskets 3, 8 are already loaded with balls. This enables the treatment of a workpiece to continue. The installation 1 thus makes it possible to limit the time losses during the electroplating treatment of a workpiece to the maximum extent possible.

[0146] It is understood that either the installation 1 has several loading stations 4 or the installation 1 is configured such that a loading station 4 allows for the continuous filling of rows 2 and 7, said rows 2, 7 being stored gradually in an auxiliary storage area of the installation.

[0147] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described but encompasses any variant falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0148] For example, the installation may include only one row of baskets or a greater number of rows than two.

[0149] A single trolley may be associated with more than one row of baskets. For example, a single trolley may ensure the filling of two rows of baskets, the two rows of baskets being optionally arranged on either side of the loading station.

[0150] Although here the movement of the trolleys is automated, the movement of at least one of the trolleys may be manual. At least one of the trolleys may thus comprise at least one handle by means of which the operator can slide the trolley on the rail. Preferably then, said trolley will comprise two handles, each of the handles being arranged on opposite lateral flanks of the trolley frame. Preferably then, the handles will be arranged in the upper part of said flanks. Preferably, said handles will be arranged symmetrically on the frame along at least one axis of symmetry. Said axis of symmetry is for example vertical. Said axis of symmetry passes for example through the center of the trolley. Preferably, said handles will thus be arranged at the same height relative to the ground to increase the ergonomics of the trolley.

[0151] At least one of the pipes may be equipped with at least one presence sensor making it possible to estimate whether the carriage associated with the pipe is in the first end position or not. As long as a carriage is not detected, the pipe is not open.

[0152] Although here the pipeline carries a sensor for detecting the filling level of the associated tank, it is possible for the trolley itself to carry such a sensor. Alternatively or in addition, it is possible for the operator to estimate the filling level of the tank himself.

[0153] Although here the chute carries a sensor for detecting the filling level of the associated basket, it is possible for the basket itself to carry such a sensor. Alternatively or in addition, it is possible for the operator to estimate the filling level of the basket himself.

[0154] The trolley can only be moved if the target filling level of the basket is reached or if the trolley's tank is empty. The trolley's tank may be equipped with a sensor for detecting the filling level of the tank (and in particular for detecting whether the tank is empty).

[0155] Although here some of the steps described are performed manually, all of the steps described can be performed automatically.

[0156] The installation may comprise, for example, at least one control unit controlling the movement of at least one carriage opposite at least one row of baskets and / or controlling the conveying means so as to stop or activate it.

[0157] The balls may be made of a material other than that indicated and for example be made of a metallic material and for example be made of or based on brass, cadmium, chrome, copper, gold, iron, silver, titanium, zinc, etc. or any other material. allowing it to be used to form an electroplating bath (the nickel plating bath described is therefore not limiting).

Claims

Claims

1. Filling trolley comprising: - a chassis (17) provided with at least one reservoir (16) intended to contain balls, - at least one chute (19) extending from the inside of the chassis (17) to the outside of the chassis (17), the chute (19) extending towards the rear of the chassis (17), - at least one conveying means (18) for raising the balls in use from the reservoir (16) into the chute (19), - at least one positioning sensor (22), the positioning sensor (22) being oriented towards the rear of the chassis (17) like the chute (19).

2. A trolley according to claim 1, wherein the conveying means (18) is a worm screw.

3. A trolley according to claim 1 or claim 2, comprising at least one second positioning sensor (23).

4. Trolley according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one detection sensor (21) of a filling level intended to detect the filling level of balls poured by the trolley into a basket opposite the trolley.

5. Trolley according to claim 4, wherein the detection sensor (21) is arranged at the chute (19).

6. Trolley according to one of the preceding claims, in which the chute (19) is movable relative to the chassis (17) between a rest position and a working position.

7. Trolley according to claim 6, comprising a system of at least one stop (25a, 25b) associated with the chute (19) to define its working position.

8. Installation comprising at least one row of baskets and at least one trolley (5, 9) according to one of claims 1 to 7 capable of moving relative to said row of baskets.

9. Installation according to claim 8, comprising a rail (6, 10) extending along the row of baskets, the carriage (5, 9) cooperating with the rail (6, 10) to slide along the row of baskets.

10. Installation according to claim 8 or claim 9, comprising a loading station (4) capable of loading the reservoir (16) of the trolley (5, 9) with balls.

11. Installation according to claim 10, in which the loading station (4) is arranged at a longitudinal end of the row of baskets.

12. Installation according to one of claims 10 to 11, in which the row of baskets is a first row (2) of baskets, the installation comprising a second row (7) of baskets arranged in the opposite direction from the first row (2) of baskets.

13. Installation according to one of claims 10 to 12, in which the loading station (4) comprises at least one upper tank (11) to which at least one outlet pipe (12) is connected.

14. Installation according to claim 13, in which the tank (11) is provided with at least one cutting member (14).

15. Installation according to one of claims 10 to 14, in which the loading station (4) comprises a detection sensor (21) of a filling level intended to detect the filling level of balls poured by the loading station (4) into the carriage (5, 9).

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