STATION OF A CABLE TRANSPORT FACILITY AND METHOD FOR MAINTAINING A STATION

Abstract

STATION OF A CABLE TRANSPORT FACILITY AND METHOD FOR MAINTAINING A STATION A cable transport facility is provided with a vehicle and a station (1). The station comprises a moving device (3) for moving the vehicle in the station (1). The moving device (3) defines a circulation path for the vehicle and moves the vehicle. A platform (6) is arranged on one side of the circulation path. The platform (6) allows circulation next to the moving device (3) and allows intervention on the moving device (3). The station (1) defines a passage space for a clamp of the vehicle. The moving device (3) is arranged between the platform (6) and the passage space. An additional platform is movable between first and second positions. In a first position the additional platform does not form an obstacle to the progress of the vehicle.The second position allows intervention on the movement device (3).

Description

Title of the invention: STATION OF A CABLE TRANSPORT INSTALLATION AND METHOD STATION MAINTENANCE Technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a station of a cable transport installation and to a method of maintaining a station of a cable transport installation. Prior art

[0002] To move people or goods, it is known to use cable transport installations. These cable transport installations comprise one or more stations as well as pylons. A cable defines a circulation path for the circulation of vehicles between the stations. The cable is moved by means of a motor. One or more vehicles are attached to the cable and they move along the circulation path. In the station, it is conventional to define a circulation path for the vehicle(s) by means of a plurality of rotating elements such as tires or rollers.

[0003] Like any transport installation, the cable transport installation is regularly subject to maintenance operations, which implies in particular that the different elements which form the station are accessible to one or more operators in order to analyze and possibly repair the elements which form the station.

[0004] For this purpose, it is conventional to form a station which is equipped with an internal platform which runs alongside the vehicle circulation path in order to be able to observe and possibly intervene on the equipment which ensures the movement of the cable and / or the vehicles in the station. In order to ensure the safety of the personnel, the moving elements and in particular the drive wheels and rollers which ensure the drive of the cable and / or the vehicles are protected by a cover. The cover prevents the operator who is moving on the platform from being caught by a moving element.

[0005] The hood is mounted to be movable between a first position which ensures the protection of personnel and a second position which allows intervention on the mobile equipment and in particular on the drive wheels.

[0006] However, when the operator has to work on the drive wheels, it is found that the configuration is not always very practical because the circulation platform is arranged quite far from the drive wheels. In certain configurations, it also appears that the drive wheels and the platform are separated by a beam which supports the rotation axes of the drive wheels. As a result, during maintenance operations, operators cannot always intervene in the most suitable conditions.

[0007] It is also important to limit the size of the cable transport system station, which tends to compromise between the size of the station and the ease of access to the various components of the station. Document EP1405779 discloses a station having an internal circulation platform and an external circulation platform present only in a bend. This configuration has a significant size with two wide platforms intended to receive operators. Outside the bend, it is particularly complicated to access the external part of the training wheels. Subject of the invention

[0008] An object of the invention is to provide a station for a cable transport installation which facilitates interventions on the cable movement equipment and / or vehicles without increasing the space requirement of the station.

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a station of a cable transport installation provided with at least one vehicle, the station comprising: - a movement device configured to move the at least one vehicle in the station, the movement device defining a circulation path of the at least one vehicle in the station, the movement device comprising a plurality of mobile elements capable of moving the at least one vehicle in the station; - a platform arranged on a first side of the circulation path, the platform being configured to allow the circulation of an operator next to the movement device and to allow intervention on the movement device; - at least one cover mounted to move between a protection position and an intervention position, in the protection position the cover at least partially covering the movement device to separate the operator present on the platform and the movement device and to prohibit access to the movement device, in the intervention position, the cover allowing access to the movement device; the station defining a passage space intended to allow the circulation of a clamp of at least one vehicle, the clamp fixing the at least one vehicle to the cable, the movement device being arranged between the platform and the passage space.

[0010] The station is remarkable in that it comprises at least one additional platform distinct from the at least one cover, the at least one additional platform being mounted to move between a storage position and a maintenance position; in which the storage position is a position where the at least one additional platform does not form an obstacle to the progress of the at least one vehicle in the circulation path and in which the maintenance position is a position capable of supporting the operator to allow intervention on the movement device; and in that, in the maintenance position, the at least one additional platform is arranged on a second side of the circulation path opposite the platform, the second side being separated from the first side by the circulation path in a vertical observation.

[0011] Advantageously, the at least one additional platform is mechanically linked to the at least one cowling by a mechanical connection, the at least one cowling in the protection position preventing movement of the at least one additional platform from the storage position to the intervention position.

[0012] In a particular configuration, when the at least one cowling is in the protection position, the at least one additional platform is in the storage position, and in which when the at least one cowling is in the intervention position, the at least one additional platform is in the maintenance position.

[0013] In an advantageous development, which when the at least one additional platform is in the storage position the at least one cover is in the protection position, and when the at least one additional platform is in the maintenance position, the at least one cover is in the intervention position.

[0014] Preferably, the at least one additional platform is movable between the storage position and the maintenance position only when the at least one cowling is in the intervention position; the at least one additional platform being movable by means of a control separate from the at least one cowling.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the control is accessible from the platform only when the at least one cowling is in the intervention position and / or in which the control is deactivated when the at least one cowling is in the protection position.

[0016] In an advantageous development, the at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents the movement of the at least one cowling out of the intervention position.

[0017] Preferably, the at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents the movement of a cable intended to drive the at least one vehicle. Alternatively, the at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents the attachment of the at least one vehicle to the cable when the vehicle can be disengaged from the cable.

[0018] In another advantageous development, in the maintenance position, the at least one additional platform is arranged in a space intended to be occupied by the clamp, the at least one additional platform forming an obstacle to the passage of the at least one vehicle in the station.

[0019] Preferably, the at least one cowling comprises a plurality of cowlings mounted one after the other along the cable intended to drive the at least one vehicle from one end to the other of the station and in which the at least one additional platform comprises a plurality of additional platforms mounted one after the other along the cable, an additional platform of the plurality of additional platforms being associated with a cowling of the plurality of cowlings to form an intervention section, each intervention section being mechanically independent of the other intervention sections.

[0020] Advantageously, the movement device comprises at least one wheel configured to move the vehicle in the station, and in which the altitude of the additional platform is lower than the altitude of an axis of rotation of the at least one wheel.

[0021] In a particular embodiment, in the storage position, the at least one additional platform is entirely on the second side.

[0022] In an advantageous development, the station comprises at least one sensor configured to detect the additional platform outside the storage position and / or the cover outside the protection position and emit a first signal and a control circuit connected to the sensor to receive said first signal, the control circuit being configured to stop the drive device or prevent starting of the drive means upon receipt of said first signal.

[0023] It is preferable to provide a station where the hood in the intervention position forms a guardrail with respect to the additional platform in the maintenance position, the guardrail being separated from the drive device by the additional platform in an observation in a vertical direction.

[0024] The invention also relates to a maintenance method which is easier to carry out than in the configurations of the prior art.

[0025] This result is tended to be achieved by means of a method of maintaining a station of a cable transport installation comprising the following steps: - providing a station according to any one of the preceding configurations; - moving the additional platform from the storage position to the maintenance position, the maintenance position supporting an operator who works on the moving device, the storage position is a position where the additional platform is outside the passage space of vehicles in the station. Summary description of the drawings

[0026] Other advantages and characteristics will emerge more clearly from the following description of particular embodiments and implementations of the invention given as non-limiting examples and represented in the appended drawings, in which:

[0027] [Fig. 1]: schematically illustrates a cable transport installation equipped with two stations connected by a cable;

[0028] [Fig.2]: schematically illustrates a side view of a station with a hood in a protective position and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0029] [Fig.3]: schematically illustrates a perspective view of the station with a hood in a protective position and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0030] [Fig.4]: schematically illustrates a top view of the station with a cover in a protective position and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0031] [Fig.5]: schematically illustrates a side view of the station with a hood in an intervention position and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0032] [Fig.6]: schematically illustrates a perspective view of the station with a hood in an intervention position and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0033] [Fig.7]: schematically illustrates a top view of the station with a hood in an intervention position and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0034] [Fig.8]: schematically illustrates a side view of the station with a hood, part of which is folded back, and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0035] [Fig.9]: schematically illustrates a perspective view of the station with a hood, part of which is folded back, and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0036] [Fig. 10]: schematically illustrates a top view of the station with a hood, part of which is folded back, and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0037] [Fig. 11]: schematically illustrates a side view of the station with a hood in the intervention position, part of which is folded back, and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0038] [Fig. 12]: schematically illustrates a perspective view of the station with a hood in the intervention position, part of which is folded back, and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0039] [Fig. 13]: schematically illustrates a top view of the station with a hood in the intervention position, part of which is folded up, and an additional platform in a storage position;

[0040] [Fig. 14]: schematically illustrates a side view of the station with a hood in the intervention position, part of which is folded back, and an additional platform in a maintenance position;

[0041] [Fig. 15]: schematically illustrates a perspective view of the station with a hood in the intervention position, part of which is folded back, and an additional platform in a maintenance position;

[0042] [Fig. 16]: schematically illustrates a top view of the station with a hood in the intervention position, part of which is folded back, and an additional platform in a maintenance position. Description of the embodiments

[0043] Figures 1 to 16 illustrate a cable transport installation and several views of a station 1 of a cable transport installation in different configurations. The cable transport installation comprises one or more stations 1, for example two terminal stations with possibly intermediate stations. The stations 1 are connected by a cable 2 or at least one cable 2. The cable transport installation has one or more vehicles 3. The cable transport installation defines a circulation path for the vehicle(s) 3. The circulation path is defined totally or in part by a cable 2 or by several cables 2. Preferably, when the cable transport installation has several stations 1, the cable(s) 2 connect the stations 1 to each other.

[0044] The cable transport installation comprises a cable drive means 4 which is configured to drive the cable 2. The cable drive means 4 has, for example, at least one motor. The cable drive means 4 may be arranged in the station 1 or elsewhere.

[0045] The vehicle(s) 3 are fixed to the cable 2 by a clamp 3a or at least one clamp 3a. Depending on the configurations, the vehicles 3 are fixedly mounted to the cable 2 or are mounted in a disengageable manner relative to the cable 2. The clamp 3a is adapted accordingly.

[0046] The station 1 has a movement device 5 configured to allow the movement of at least one vehicle 3 in the station 1, for example the movement of the vehicle through the station 1. The movement device 5 partly defines the circulation path of the vehicle and in particular the circulation path in the station 1 and preferably through the station 1.

[0047] In order to facilitate the movement of an operator in the station 1, the latter has a platform 6. The platform 6 defines a path allowing the movement of the operator between the different parts of the station 1. The platform 6 is arranged on a first side of the movement device 5. When the circulation path defines a “U”, the platform 6 is preferably arranged on the internal side of the circulation path, that is to say inside the “U”. The platform 6 is arranged opposite the movement device 5, that is to say at the same altitude as the movement device 5 or substantially at the same altitude so that the operator can access the components of the movement device 5 in a standing position or preferably on his knees. The platform 6 is preferably arranged to be further from the components of the vehicle clamp than from the cable 2 so as to reduce the size of the station 1.

[0048] The platform 6 is arranged at a height so as not to form an obstacle to the smooth movement of vehicles in the station 1. In general, the platform 6 does not form an obstacle to the elements used to set the cable 2 in motion, as well as to the vehicle diversion elements 3 where applicable. The arrangement of the platform 6 and the other components of the station 1 is carried out in an ingenious manner in order to find the best compromise between the size of the station 1 and the ease of maintenance work. Preferably, the platform 6 is arranged above the cabin or the seat when the cable transport installation is a gondola or a chairlift. The platform is arranged so as to allow the operation of the transport installation.

[0049] In order to protect the operator during operation of the cable transport installation, the constituent elements of the movement device 5 are not easily accessible or are not accessible by the operator who is moving on the platform 6. The same is advantageously true for the cable 2 and / or the part of the vehicle 3 which is located near the platform 6, for example the clamp 3a.

[0050] Figures 2 and 7 illustrate an embodiment in which the movement device 5 is made inaccessible, from the platform 6, by means of at least one cover 7. The cover 7 partially covers the movement device 5, so that the at least one cover 7 is located between the operator located on the platform 6 and the movement device 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover 7 is in the form of an angle iron which prevents access in a horizontal direction as well as in a vertical direction to the components of the movement device 5. Another form of cover is possible. The cover 7 is preferably made of metallic material.

[0051] In order to be able to carry out maintenance operations, the at least one cover 7 has a first position which is a protective position preventing access to all or part of the movement device 5 and a second position which is an intervention position allowing access. Depending on the configurations, the cowling(s) 7 are mounted movable or deformable between the protection position and the intervention position. Preferably, the cowling 7 in the protection position and in the intervention position does not form an obstacle to the movement of the vehicles 3. In other words, the cowling 7 is not located in the path of passage of the vehicle 3.

[0052] The transition from the protection position to the intervention position can be done by deformation of the cover 7, by displacement of the cover 7, for example by rotation of the cover 7, and possibly by dismantling a part of the cover 7. It is advantageous to combine at least two of these embodiments. Preferably, the transition from the protection position to the intervention position causes the cable transport installation to stop and / or is only possible when the installation is stopped, that is to say at least when the cable 2 is no longer running. The cover 7 can be provided with a sensor 7a which detects that the cover 7 is no longer in the protection position and / or can be provided with a lock 7b which prevents the movement of the cover 7 out of the first position when the installation is not stopped, that is to say is in operation.

[0053] Preferably, the moving device 5 is a device for moving a cable transport installation for vehicles 3 with a detachable clamp. The moving device 5 is then configured to separately move the cable 2 and the at least one vehicle over a portion of the circulation path. The moving device 5 has a plurality of movable elements, preferably rotating elements which are intended to move the cable 2 and / or the vehicles 3 in the station 1. The rotating elements are preferably wheels 5a and / or rollers 5b which are involved in the movement of the cable 2 or the vehicles 3. In one embodiment, one or more of the rotating elements are mounted freely. In another embodiment, one or more of the rotating elements are driven in rotation. It is also possible to have rollers 5b mounted freely and wheels 5a which drive the vehicles.

[0054] As illustrated in Figures 2 to 16, the station 1 preferably has a series of wheels 5a which drive the at least one vehicle 3 along the circulation path. The wheels 5a are arranged one after the other to define a part of the circulation path.

[0055] As illustrated in [Fig.4] and in the other figures, the station 1 has one or more rollers 5b which support or press on the cable 2. The rollers 5b participate in the movement of the cable 2 inside the station 1.

[0056] The movable elements are mounted one after the other to define the circulation path. For example, the movable elements are aligned one after the other to define a straight line portion. In another embodiment, the movable elements are arranged one behind the other to define a curve or other shape.

[0057] To facilitate the movement of the at least one vehicle in the station 1, it is advantageous to have one or more rails 5c, for example two rails 5c which support the vehicle. In the station 1, the vehicle 3 rolls on the at least one rail 5c which defines the circulation path for the vehicle 3. The rails 5c support at least one pair of wheels of the vehicle 3. Two rails 5c facing each other are separated by a passage space for the arm of the vehicle. It is advantageous for the tires 5a to be mounted on a beam 5d.

[0058] The platform 6 is offset laterally relative to the movement device 5 and is located outside the space for the passage of the vehicles in the station 1. The offset arrangement of the platform 6 in the station 1 means that the movement device 5 is not easily accessible for the operator and that certain components of the movement device 5 become difficult to handle, in particular the wheels 5a. As a result, during a maintenance operation, the operator may find himself in an uncomfortable position. The space for the passage of the vehicles represents the minimum space occupied by the vehicle which circulates in the station 1 along the circulation path. The passage space corresponds substantially to the lateral size of the vehicle 3 and it defines the volume in which an element cannot be installed because it will form an obstacle to the passage of the vehicle 3.At the height of the moving device 5, the passage space is mainly or exclusively defined by the clamp 3a and the arm which supports the cabin or the seat of the vehicle 3.

[0059] In order to facilitate the work of the operator, it is advantageous to provide a station 1 which is equipped with an additional platform 8. The additional platform 8 is a temporary platform, that is to say a platform which is used for one-off maintenance operations. The additional platform 8 is movable between a first position and a second position different from the first position. The first position is a storage position, that is to say a position where the additional platform 8 does not form an obstacle to the progress of the at least one vehicle 3 in the circulation path. The second position of the additional platform 8 is a maintenance position, that is to say a position capable of supporting the operator to allow intervention on the movement device 5. In the second position, the additional platform 8 is arranged on a second side of the circulation path opposite the platform 6.The second side is opposite to the first side with respect to the traffic path according to an observation. vertical. As illustrated in the various figures, platform 6 and additional platform 8 are separated by the circulation path of vehicle 3 during a vertical observation.

[0060] The additional platform 8 is a platform which is located on the other side of the movement device 5 so as to be able to facilitate maintenance operations on the movement device 5. The operator can move from the platform 6 to the additional platform 8 in complete safety, that is to say from the first side to the second side in order to be able to intervene more effectively on the movement device 5 with another observation point. The platform 6 allows intervention from one side of the movement device 5 while the additional platform 8 allows intervention from the other side of the movement device. The additional platform 8 is preferably made of metallic material or any other material capable of supporting the weight of the user and providing good resistance over time.

[0061] By “the additional platform 8 is arranged on the second side of the traffic path” we mean that the additional platform 8 is mainly located on the second side or even exclusively on the second side.

[0062] Preferably, in the storage position, the additional platform 8 is arranged exclusively on the second side, that is to say that the portion capable of supporting the operator in the maintenance position is located exclusively on the second side. This allows for a simpler movement of movement of the additional platform between the two positions. This also makes it possible to limit the space requirement associated with the additional platform 8.

[0063] In the second position, the additional platform 8 is horizontal or substantially horizontal to make the operator's work safer. Preferably, the additional platform 8 has a surface area that is greater than 1m2. Preferably, the additional platform 8 is located exclusively on the second side.

[0064] In a particular embodiment, in the second position, the additional platform 8 is arranged in the space for the passage of the vehicles and it obstructs the passage space. This arrangement facilitates intervention on the moving device 5. In the second position, the additional platform 8 prevents the passage of at least one vehicle 3 through the station 1. Advantageously, in the second position, the additional platform 8 occupies the space intended to be occupied by the clamp 3a of a vehicle 3. In other words, if the vehicle 3 is moving, the clamp 3a will strike the additional platform 8. Preferably, the station 1 has a sensor 9 configured to detect the presence of the additional platform 8 in the second position and prohibit the start-up of the cable transport installation when the detection occurs.

[0065] In an advantageous embodiment, when the moving device 5 is provided with wheels 5a which move the vehicle 3, it is advantageous for the additional platform 8 to be arranged at an altitude which is lower than the altitude of the axis of rotation of the wheel 5a which faces it. Even more advantageously, the additional platform 8 is at an altitude which is lower than the altitude of the wheel 5a which faces it. Preferably, the difference between the altitude of the platform 6 and the altitude of the lowest zone of the wheel 5a is less than 50cm so as to facilitate the disassembly of the wheel 5a. Such an embodiment is illustrated in Figures 14 to 16. By shifting the additional platform 8 downwards, the intervention of the operator is facilitated. By "facing it" is meant the wheel 5a which is opposite the additional platform 8 along a vertical plane which passes through the axis of rotation of the wheel 5a.In the second position, the additional platform 8 may be at an altitude which is equal to or lower than the altitude of the platform 6 in the area opposite perpendicular to the circulation path as illustrated in figures 14 and 16. Preferably, during the movement between the first position and the second position, the additional platform 8 never reaches the altitude of the cabin or the seat.

[0066] When the additional platform 8 is in the storage position, it is advantageous for the station 1 to be devoid of a platform on the second side, that is to say of a means capable of supporting an operator and close to the means of movement for intervening in complete safety.

[0067] In an advantageous embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 12, the station 1 also comprises a roof wall 10. The roof wall 10 forms a roof on top of the station 1. The roof wall 10 may define an additional platform 10a capable of supporting the operator. The additional platform 10a is offset from the additional platform 8 in a first direction perpendicular to the direction of travel of the at least one vehicle 3. The additional platform 10 is arranged at a height lower than the height of the additional platform 8 and offset to arrange the additional platform 8 between the plurality of wheels and the additional platform 7a, in a vertical observation. The roof wall 7 is intended to form the roof of the station 1 in order to protect the components of the station 1 against bad weather, in particular rain and snow.

[0068] The additional platform 8 is distinct from the cowling 7. The movement of the additional platform 8 is different from the movement of the cowling 7. For example, the cowling 7 and the additional platform 8 are each pivotally mounted around two different pivot axes. Alternatively, the cowling 7 and the platform additional 8 have different modes of movement chosen from pivoting, sliding, folding. The cover 7 can be made by a part which is non-deformable between the protection position and the intervention position or it can comprise a frame 11 which is non-deformable between the protection position and the intervention position.

[0069] In the particular embodiments illustrated, the cowling 7 is pivotally mounted about a cowling pivot shaft 12. The additional platform is pivotally mounted about a platform shaft 13.

[0070] In a particular embodiment, the cowling 7 and the additional platform 8 are mechanically linked so that the movement of the cowling 7 causes the movement of the additional platform 8 and / or the movement of the additional platform 8 causes a movement of the cowling 7. Preferably, a movement of the cowling 7 from the intervention position to the protection position causes a movement of the additional platform 8 from the maintenance position to the storage position. More advantageously, a movement of the cowling 7 from the protection position to the intervention position causes a movement of the additional platform 8 from the storage position to the maintenance position.Even more preferably, the mechanical connection between the cowling 7 and the additional platform 8 is such that when the cowling 7 is in the protection position, the additional platform 8 is out of the maintenance position, more preferably in the storage position. Advantageously, the mechanical connection between the cowling 7 and the additional platform 8 is such that when the cowling 7 is in the intervention position, the additional platform 8 is in the maintenance position.

[0071] The additional platform 8 may be connected to the cowling 7 by means of a mechanical connection, preferably a rigid mechanical connection, for example one or more articulated arms which fix the position of the cowling 7 relative to the position of the additional platform 8 and vice versa. The additional platform 8 may be connected to the cowling 7 by means of one or more wire elements. For example, moving the cowling 7 to the protection position requires the wire element to pull on the additional platform 8 to leave the maintenance position. Alternatively, it is also possible to provide a gear connection between the cowling 7 and the additional platform 8 or any other suitable connection.

[0072] Preferably, the mechanical connection between the cowling 7 and the additional platform 8 means that part of the force of moving the cowling 7 is taken up by the force of moving the additional platform 8. Preferably, the movement of the cowling 7 between the protection position and the intervention position has an upward movement of the center of gravity of the cowling 7. During this upward movement, the center of gravity of the additional platform 8 moves downwards, which limits musculoskeletal constraints on the operator.

[0073] In an advantageous embodiment, the cowling 7 is mounted to move independently of the additional platform 8 to avoid the operator having to exert an effort to simultaneously move the cowling 7 and the additional platform 8. The cowling 7 is moved between the protection position and the intervention position without this causing the additional platform 8 to move between the storage position and the maintenance position. The additional platform 8 is moved between the storage position and the maintenance position without this causing the cowling 7 to move between the protection position and the intervention position.

[0074] To prevent the operator from handling the additional platform 8 in an unsuitable posture, it is advantageous for the additional platform to be moved by means of a control 14, for example a button, a crank or a lever. Actuation of the control 14 moves the additional platform between the storage position and the maintenance position.

[0075] It is preferable that the control 14 is deactivated when the cowling is in the protective position to avoid any movement of the additional platform. Alternatively or additionally, the control 14 is inaccessible from the platform 6 when the cowling is in the protective position to avoid any movement of the additional platform. For example, the control 14 is arranged in the immediate vicinity of the drive device and it is covered by the cowling 7 when the cowling 7 is in the position. This prevents unwanted actuation of the additional platform 8 when the cowling 7 is in the protective position. For example, [Fig. 2] illustrates a first control is arranged between the drive device 5 and the cowling 7 in the protective position. The first control is in the form of a button which actuates a motor capable of moving the additional platform. [Fig.2] also illustrates a control which is in the form of a crank. The rotation of the crank moves the mobile platform between the storage position and the maintenance position. Preferably the additional platform 8 is provided with a lock which blocks the additional platform in the storage position when the cover 7 is in the protective position.

[0076] Preferably, the additional platform 8 in the maintenance position prevents movement of the cowling 7 in the protection position and / or blocks the cowling 7 in the intervention position.

[0077] In an advantageous embodiment, the cowling 7 is movable out of the intervention position only when the additional platform 8 is in the storage position.

[0078] To lock the cover 7 in the intervention position when the additional platform 8 is in the maintenance position and / or to lock the additional platform 8 in the storage position when the cover 7 is in the protection position, different mechanical connections between the cover 7 and the additional platform 8 are possible. It is possible to use cables, the additional platform 8 in the maintenance position can form a stop preventing the movement of the cover 7 in the intervention position. The cover 7 in the protection position forms a stop preventing the movement of the additional platform 8 in the storage position.

[0079] In the illustrated embodiments, the control 14 of the additional platform 8 has a lever, preferably a pivoting lever which moves the additional platform 8. In a first lever position, the additional platform 8 is in the storage position. In a second lever position, the additional platform 8 is in the maintenance position. Preferably, the second lever position forms a stop preventing movement of the cowling 7 from the intervention position to the protection position.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the cowling 7 is pivotally mounted about a pivot axis 17 which is parallel or substantially parallel to the axis of movement of the vehicle 3 in the area opposite the cowling 7 according to a vertical observation.

[0081] In a particular embodiment, the station 1 is provided with a sensor configured to detect that the cowling 7 is in or out of the protective position. The station 1 comprises a control circuit 15 which is connected to the sensor. The sensor emits a first signal following the detection. When the sensor detects that the cowling 7 is out of the protective position, the sensor emits the first signal and the control circuit 15 is configured to stop the circulation of the cable 2, for example to stop the drive means, for example the motor, and / or prevent the movement of the vehicle 3. If the installation is already stopped, the detection of the cowling 7 out of the protective position prevents the installation from starting.Preferably, the at least one additional platform 8 in the maintenance position prevents the movement of a cable 2 intended to drive the at least one vehicle or the at least one additional platform 8 in the maintenance position prevents the attachment of the at least one vehicle 3 to the cable 2 when the vehicle can be disengaged from the cable 2. Preferably, the station 1 is provided with at least one sensor configured to detect the additional platform (8) outside the storage position and emit a first signal and a control circuit connected to the sensor. to receive said first signal, the control circuit being configured to stop the drive device or prevent starting of the drive means upon receipt of said first signal.

[0082] In an advantageous embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 14], the cowling 7 moves from the protection position to the intervention position and at least a portion of the cowling 7 forms a barrier intended to prevent the operator from leaving the additional platform 8 from the end opposite the end close to the movement device 5. A portion of the cowling 7 extends mainly in the vertical direction to form a protective barrier. The guardrail portion may be the portion arranged above the drive device 5 when the cowling 7 is in the protection position. The guardrail portion may be a first plate 7a. The guardrail portion is arranged at a higher altitude than the additional platform 8.

[0083] Preferably, a part of the cowling 7 is removable. When the cowling 7 is in the protective position, the removable part is the part which is arranged facing the drive device along a longitudinal axis in the direction of the platform 6, for example a second plate 7b. This embodiment is illustrated in [Fig.9]. Alternatively, the second plate 7b can be pivotally mounted, sliding relative to the first plate 7a so as not to be opposite the additional platform and to define a substantially horizontal plane which hinders access to the additional platform by stepping over the drive device 5.

[0084] In a particular embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 12], the cowling 7 is formed by a first plate 7a and a second plate 7b. The second plate 7b is mounted to move relative to the first plate 7a, for example by means of a hinge. Preferably, the second plate 7b is mounted to move between a protective position and a folded position. In the protective position, the second plate 7b extends downwards from the first plate 7a. In the folded position, the second plate 7b is pressed against the first plate 7a, against the upper face or against the lower face. The first plate 7a is parallel or substantially parallel to the second plate 7b.

[0085] Advantageously, the additional platform 8 is pivotally mounted between the storage position and the intervention position around a platform shaft which is installed stationary relative to the station 1. It is advantageous for the pivot shaft 13 to be arranged above the vehicle passage space 3.

[0086] In a preferred configuration, the two ends of the additional platform are terminated by a guardrail 16 which extends in a vertical direction and which is mounted fixed relative to the movement device 5. Even more preferably, when the additional platform 8 is mounted at rotation, the pivot shaft 13 is mounted fixed relative to the guardrails 16. The two guardrails 16 form two obstacles at the two ends of the additional platform 8 to prevent the operator from falling. Preferably, the two guardrails 16 are mounted fixed relative to the moving device 5. It is advantageous to use the supports of the roof wall 10 as guardrails 16.

[0087] In one embodiment, the moving device 5 comprises a plurality of wheels 5a, the plane separating the first side and the second side is defined by a vertical surface perpendicular to the respective wheels 5a which define the path of circulation of the vehicles. The plane passes through the wheels 5a.

[0088] In another embodiment, the movement device 5 comprises a plurality of rollers 5b, the plane separating the first side and the second side is defined by a vertical surface perpendicular to the respective rollers 5b which define the circulation path of the vehicles by means of the routing of the cable 2. The plane crosses the rollers 5b.

[0089] Preferably, the cowling 7 has a shape other than a “U” configuration to reduce its size and avoid hindering access from the additional platform 8 when it is moved from the storage position to the intervention position.

[0090] In a particular embodiment, several separate cowls 7 are arranged one behind the other in the direction of the circulation path between the platform 6 and the circulation path so as to provide protection over the facing distance between the platform 6 and the drive device 5. Several additional platforms 8 are also used. Each additional platform 8 is associated with one of the cowls 7 to form an intervention section and allow intervention on a particular area of ​​the drive path. Safety is ensured over the entire length of the platform and it becomes easier to carry out maintenance operations without increasing the size of the station 1. Preferably, the at least one cowl 7 comprises a plurality of cowls 7 mounted one after the other along the cable 2 intended to drive the at least one vehicle from one end of the station to the other.The at least one additional platform 8 comprises a plurality of additional platforms A mounted one after the other along the cable 2, an additional platform 8 of the plurality of additional platforms A being associated with a cowling 7 of the plurality of cowlings 7 to form an intervention section, each intervention section being mechanically independent of the other intervention sections.

[0091] As illustrated, the station 1 may also be provided with a bridge which makes it possible to cross the movement device 5 to access another part of the station, for example an upper portion of the station.

Claims

1. Claims Station (1) of a cable transport installation equipped with at least one vehicle (3), the station (1) comprising: - a moving device (5) configured to move the at least one vehicle (3) in the station (1), the moving device (5) defining a circulation path of the at least one vehicle in the station (1), the moving device (5) comprising a plurality of mobile elements (5a, 5b) capable of moving the at least one vehicle (3) in the station (1); - a platform (6) arranged on a first side of the circulation path, the platform (6) being configured to allow the circulation of an operator next to the movement device (5) and to allow intervention on the movement device (5); - at least one cover (7) mounted to move between a protection position and an intervention position, in the protection position the cover (7) at least partially covering the movement device (5) to separate the operator present on the platform (6) and the movement device (5) and to prohibit access to the movement device, in the intervention position, the cover (7) allowing access to the movement device (5); the station (1) defining a passage space intended to allow a clamp of the at least one vehicle (3) to circulate, the clamp fixing the at least one vehicle to the cable (2), the movement device (5) being arranged between the platform (6) and the passage space; station characterized in that it comprises at least one additional platform (8) separate from the at least one cover (7), the at least one additional platform (8) being mounted to move between a storage position and a maintenance position; in which the storage position is a position where the at least one additional platform (8) does not form an obstacle to the progress of the at least one vehicle in the circulation path and in which the maintenance position is a position capable of supporting the operator to allow intervention on the movement device (5); and in that, in the maintenance position, the at least one additional platform (8) is arranged on a second side of the traffic path opposite the platform (6), the second side being separated from the first side by the traffic path in a vertical observation.

2. Station according to claim 1 in which the at least one additional platform (8) is mechanically linked to the at least one cover (7) by a mechanical connection, the at least one cover (7) in the protection position preventing movement of the at least one additional platform from the storage position to the intervention position.

3. Station according to claim 2 in which when the at least one cover (7) is in the protection position, the at least one additional platform (8) is in the storage position, and in which when the at least one cover (7) is in the intervention position, the at least one additional platform (8) is in the maintenance position.

4. Station according to claim 3 in which when the at least one additional platform (8) is in the storage position the at least one cover (7) is in the protection position, and when the at least one additional platform (8) is in the maintenance position, the at least one cover (7) is in the intervention position.

5. Station according to claim 1 in which the at least one additional platform (8) is movable between the storage position and the maintenance position only when the at least one cover (7) is in the intervention position; the at least one additional platform (8) being movable by means of a control separate from the at least one cover (7).

6. Station according to claim 5 in which the control is accessible from the platform (6) only when the at least one cover (7) is in the intervention position and / or in which the control is deactivated when the at least one cover (7) is in the protection position.

7. Station according to one of claims 5 and 6 in which the at least one additional platform (8) in the maintenance position prevents the movement of the at least one cover (7) out of the intervention position.

8. Station according to one of claims 5 to 7 in which the at least one additional platform (8) in the maintenance position prevents the movement of a cable (2) intended to drive the at least one vehicle or in which the at least one additional platform (8) in the maintenance position prevents the at least one vehicle (3) from becoming attached to the cable (2) when the vehicle is disengageable from the cable (2).

9. Station according to any one of claims 1 to 8 in which, in the maintenance position, the at least one additional platform (8) is arranged in a space intended to be occupied by the clamp, the at least one additional platform (8) forming an obstacle to the passage of the at least one vehicle in the station (1).

10. Station according to any one of claims 1 to 9 in which the at least one cowling (7) comprises a plurality of cowlings (7) mounted one after the other along the cable (2) intended to drive the at least one vehicle from one end to the other of the station and in which the at least one additional platform (8) comprises a plurality of additional platforms (A) mounted one after the other along the cable (2), an additional platform (8) of the plurality of additional platforms (A) being associated with a cowling (7) of the plurality of cowlings (7) to form an intervention section, each intervention section being mechanically independent of the other intervention sections.

11. Station according to any one of claims 1 to 10 in which the moving device (5) comprises at least one wheel (5a) configured to move the vehicle (3) in the station (1), and in which the altitude of the additional platform (8) is lower than the altitude of an axis of rotation of the at least one wheel (5a).

12. Station according to any one of claims 1 to 11 in which, in the storage position, the at least one additional platform (8) is entirely on the second side.

13. Station according to any one of claims 1 to 12 comprising at least one sensor configured to detect the additional platform (8) out of the storage position and / or the cover (7) out of the protection position and emit a first signal and a control circuit connected to the sensor to receive said first signal, the control circuit being configured to stop the drive device or prevent starting of the drive means upon receipt of said first signal.

14. Station according to any one of claims 1 to 13 in which the cover (7) in the intervention position forms a vis- opposite the additional platform (8) in the maintenance position, the guardrail being separated from the drive device by the additional platform (8) in an observation in a vertical direction.

15. A method of maintaining a station of a cable transport installation comprising the following steps: - providing a station (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; - moving the additional platform (8) from the storage position to the maintenance position, the maintenance position supporting an operator who intervenes on the movement device (3), the storage position is a position where the additional platform (8) is outside the space for the passage of vehicles in the station (1).

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