Industrial logistics device for conveying / supporting objects, movable on the ground and equipped with a pull or push handle.

Abstract

Industrial logistics device for conveying / supporting objects, movable on the ground and equipped with a pull or push handle. The device 1 comprises a frame 5 including uprights (10ag, 10ad); fixed connection connectors (7); load-bearing elements (8); conveying / support means (9); at least one handle (2) rigidly associated to the frame (5) by a fixed connection, comprising a gripping element (17) and two spacing elements (18d, 18g) of the gripping element (17) with respect to an extreme part (LAV, LAR) of the device (1); the gripping element (17) is elongated in the left-right direction, and arranged opposite the frame, and the two spacing elements (18d, 18g) are parallel in the rear-front direction and spaced apart; The two spacer elements (18d, 18g) are rigidly attached to the front frame uprights by cross connectors (16). Figure for the abbreviated version: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Industrial logistics device for conveying / supporting objects, movable on the ground and equipped with a pull or push handle technical field

[0001] The invention relates to industrial logistics devices for conveying / supporting objects in production, assembly, maintenance, e-commerce, and handling activities, and more specifically to the field of such devices that can be moved on and in contact with the ground. Its objects include such a device equipped with a pull or push handle and a pull or push handle specifically designed to be integrated into such a device. The industrial logistics devices in question are used in applications related to flow optimization, workspace organization, ergonomics, storage, conveying, and the factory of the future.

[0002] General knowledge of a person skilled in the art and state of the art

[0003] In industrial logistics, industrial logistics devices known as dynamic racking (commonly referred to as "flow racks") are known, which typically include: - a frame comprising rigid load-bearing frame elements, including vertical frame uprights - including front uprights - and rear-front and left-right cross members, - mechanical connectors for fixed connection between adjacent load-bearing frame elements, - load-bearing elements on the ground, connected to the building by fixed links, - and means of conveying / supporting objects carried by the frame, such as an inclined track with rollers, such that objects can be retrieved forward by an operator.

[0004] In industrial logistics, industrial logistics devices are also known, such as workstations, trolleys, shelving or storage systems, displays, and conveyors. These terms correspond to devices thus designated in the field of industrial logistics (or designated in a similar way). These devices have many requirements, components, and characteristics similar, identical, or close to those of dynamic shelving, in terms of structure, dimensions, weight, implementation, and industrial use. Typically, such an industrial logistics device comprises: - a frame comprising rigid load-bearing frame elements, including vertical frame uprights - including front uprights - and rear-front and left-right cross members, - mechanical connectors for fixed connection between adjacent load-bearing frame elements, - load-bearing elements on the ground, connected to the building by fixed links, - and means of support (here support) of objects carried by the building.

[0005] A dynamic racking system or other industrial logistics device as envisaged (workstation, trolley, shelving or storage system, display stand, conveyor) is generally contained within an outer boundary of a generally parallelepiped shape, the dimensions of which depend on the intended use. For example, the width may be between 50 cm and 200 cm, the depth between 40 cm and 230 cm, and the height between 80 cm and 200 cm. The unladen weight, which depends on the dimensions, may exceed 100 kg. The boundary of the vertical perimeter of such dynamic racking comprises a front end, two lateral parts, left and right respectively, and a rear end.

[0006] In a family of devices, the dynamic racking or other industrial logistics device as envisaged is fixed to the floor. It is neither designed nor intended to be moved on the floor, as there is no need for it. In this case, the dynamic racking rests on the floor by means of load-bearing elements attached to the lower part of the frame, such as feet or base plates. Sometimes, the dynamic racking is fixed to the floor, or, if it is not, it cannot be moved due to its weight and friction on the floor. EP0343837 illustrates such a fixed embodiment. Here, a frame upright is an angle iron with perforations, and the crossbeams are quadrangular profiles. The conveying means are inclined roller rails. Due to its design, the dynamic racking according to US3894634, which includes conveying means inclined downwards and forwards as a whole, cannot be moved.In JP2001294306, which features conveying means inclined downwards and forwards as a whole, an object-stopping guillotine is integrated at the conveyor track exit, controlled by a handle projecting forwards. Depending on the handle's operation, an object is either held on the conveyor track or released. This handle is therefore not intended to move the racking, which remains fixed in position. FR2872495 illustrates another fixed embodiment. Here, the frame comprises tubular elements extending horizontally and vertically, fixed to each other by connecting means, also called joints. If necessary, a dynamic racking system of this type can be moved, provided it is lifted above the ground, which requires the use of lifting equipment, a complex and costly process. disproportionate to the distance traveled. The invention does not relate to this family of logistics devices.

[0007] In another family, the dynamic racking or other industrial logistics device as envisaged is designed and arranged to be movable on and in contact with the ground. In this case, the dynamic racking rests on the ground by means of load-bearing elements, connected to the frame by fixed links and designed to support the frame on the ground without hindering its movement on and in contact with the ground. These load-bearing elements are typically casters, in particular two-axis (vertical and horizontal) biocable casters. FR3134088 illustrates such an embodiment. US6948900 illustrates another embodiment. Here, a frame upright is a square-section post with a rack-like extension, and the conveying means extend forward beyond the front left and right uprights of the frame.In the previously mentioned designs, no provision is made for securing the dynamic shelving unit to the ground for traction or pushing, which presents several drawbacks. Another design in this category features a dynamic shelving unit with square-section frame uprights equipped with regularly spaced holes, and either two handles arranged vertically on each of the two front frame uprights, spaced apart, or a single handle positioned horizontally between the two front frame uprights. Bolts that engage with the holes in the uprights secure the horizontal handle or the two vertical handles to the uprights, adjacent to them. This design also presents several disadvantages. It requires frame uprights with regularly spaced holes.The bolts do not provide sufficient and durable fastening to withstand pulling or pushing forces. The handle(s) are too close to the front of the dynamic shelving unit, so that when a human operator wants to grasp the handle(s), the bottom of the frame interferes with their feet. This design is therefore unsatisfactory. The invention relates to this other family of logistics devices.

[0008] FR3006724, FR303337, EP2123929 describe implementations of a means A rigid mechanical assembly for logistics devices, which can be called a "standard fixed mechanical connector," is designed to ensure a rigid mechanical connection of two, or even three, tubes that pass in the same plane, typically by crossing, extending, or joining together. Such a standard fixed mechanical connector comprises two rigid connecting pieces and an adjustable means for securing them in a rigid connection. Cradles are provided which, when the two connecting pieces are rigidly joined end-to-end by means of clamping, form hollow cylindrical tubular sections for joining the tubes. Such a mechanical connector Standard fixed linkage is classically used in industrial logistics systems, particularly in dynamic racking, to ensure a rigid connection between the load-bearing elements of the frame (uprights, crossbeams).

[0009] FR953295 describes ([Fig.4]-6) a rigid assembly means for two spaced tubes which intersect at 90° while passing through different planes. This assembly method comprises two connecting pieces, each having a core and two orthogonal cradles spaced apart on either side of the core, and an adjustable means for securing them to each other via a rigid connection. These two connecting pieces are arranged end-to-end facing each other to form two cylindrical tubular assembly sections, spaced apart at 90°, suitable for mounting on the upper surfaces of the two tubes to be rigidly joined. Once rigidly joined, these two connecting pieces form two collars with axes spaced apart at 90°, receiving the two rigidly assembled tubes. Such a rigid assembly method is a possible implementation of a 90° cross connector. SUMMARY

[0010] With an industrial logistics device for conveying / supporting objects, such as dynamic shelving, or another device as envisaged (workstation, trolley, shelving or storage system, display stand, conveyor), there is a need, in some cases, to be able to move it on and in contact with the ground, without having to lift it. For example, to adjust its position or to change its location. Depending on the case, the distance of such a movement is small (e.g., on the order of a few centimeters) or large (e.g., on the order of a few meters). The system enabling such movement must be rigid in itself, as must its connection with the logistics device, in order to withstand, without damage, the required tensile or pushing forces.This system must be convenient for a human operator, allowing for two-handed operation while preventing imbalance and foot interference with the base of the frame. It must be simple in design, installation, and implementation. It must be as inexpensive as possible. It must not be too bulky or heavy. It must be easily adjustable and positioned for efficient and effective movement. It must be removable without affecting the logistics system.Furthermore, there is a need that the provision for the handle does not require a logistics device specifically designed for this purpose, such as a logistics device with profiled frame uprights with regularly spaced lateral holes, or does not lead to a weakening of the frame of the logistics device such as the presence of holes, or does not require substantial modification of the logistics device when installing the handle, or does not result in limiting the possibilities of use of the logistics device.

[0011] The invention aims to meet this need and to provide other advantages.

[0012] To this end, a first object of the invention is an industrial logistics device for conveying / supporting objects, having vertical, back-to-front and left-to-right reference directions, such as: - a frame comprises rigid, cylindrical load-bearing frame elements, including vertical uprights, namely a pair of front uprights, left and right, and a pair of rear uprights, left and right, rear-front cross members and left-right cross members, - Standard mechanical connectors for fixed connection between adjacent frame load-bearing elements include two cradle-shaped connecting pieces, arranged face to face and rigidly joined to each other by a fastening means, and ensure a fixed connection between adjacent frame load-bearing elements, - Load-bearing elements on the ground are connected to the structure by fixed links, and support the structure on and in contact with the ground, without preventing its movement on and in contact with the ground. - Means of conveying / supporting objects are carried by the frame and adapted to the function of the device, - the frame, the load-bearing elements and the means of conveying form an assembly having an extreme front part, an extreme rear part, and two lateral parts left and right.

[0013] This industrial logistics system is such that: - it includes at least one handle with two handle / frame interfaces, while a pair of frame uprights includes two frame / handle interfaces, in order to ensure a fixed connection between the handle and the frame, - the handle is suitable for being grasped by an operator with their feet on the ground and located towards the front of the extreme front part or towards the rear of the extreme rear part, so that it can be pulled or pushed to move the device on and in contact with the ground, particularly in a back-to-forth direction, - The strength of the handle and the fixed connection of the handle to the frame is determined to be sufficient to prevent deformation or detachment during movement of the device on and in contact with the ground, - The handle comprises, arranged in a rigid assembly, an elongated gripping element adapted to allow the operator to apply a pull or a push, and two elements for spreading the gripping element forward at the extreme front part or backward at the extreme rear part, so as to form a clear space between the gripping element and the extreme part at the front or the extreme rear, the spacing elements being capable of transmitting the traction or thrust of movement to the frame, - the gripping element and the spacing elements are cylindrical and of a structure similar to that of the frame uprights, - the two spacer elements are parallel to each other in the rear-to-front direction, spaced apart from each other, and each includes one of the two handle / frame interfaces, - a handle / frame interface and a frame / handle interface are joined by a fixed cross-shaped mechanical connector, comprising two rigid connecting pieces with semi-cylindrical cradles spaced apart from each other with two transverse axes, and an adjustable means for fixing the two connecting pieces to each other according to a rigid connection, so that the relevant spacer element and a frame upright, which cross by passing in different planes, are rigidly joined by two hollow cylindrical tubular sections formed by the cradles and clamped on their extrados. - the spacing elements are suitable for sufficiently clearing the gripping element towards the front of the extreme front part or towards the rear of the extreme rear part, to prevent the operator's feet from interfering with the frame and the load-bearing elements.

[0014] In the simplest embodiment, the operator is a human who directly grasps the handle with their hands. In another embodiment, the operator is a human who indirectly grasps the handle via a force transmission means. In yet another embodiment, the operator is a robot.

[0015] According to one characteristic, the handle is described as static, in the sense that, integrated into the device, it is always in a single relative position and a single relative configuration, including when it is subjected to tension or pressure, the handle not being deformable or mobile and being devoid of an integrated deformable or mobile control or actuation or locking / unlocking mechanism.

[0016] In one embodiment, the gripping element is elongated in the left-right direction, the two spacer elements are separated from each other in the left-right direction, and are rigidly connected, on the one hand, to the two end parts of the gripping element, and on the other hand, by the two handle / frame interfaces to a pair of frame uprights. Other equivalent embodiments may be considered if they provide similar performance.

[0017] In one embodiment, the frame uprights, the gripping element and the spacing elements have the same straight section, inscribed within a circular envelope of a of the same diameter, in particular are hollow tubes or solid bars, especially those made of steel or aluminum.

[0018] In one embodiment, the frame uprights, the gripping element and the spacing elements have a smooth extrados.

[0019] According to one feature, the frame uprights, the gripping element and the spacing elements are devoid of permanently integrated fastening devices, such as holes or projections.

[0020] According to the designs, the frame uprights, the gripping element and the spacing elements have a diameter of approximately 3 cm, in particular 28 mm.

[0021] According to the embodiments, the load-bearing elements are rollers movable along two axes and biocables or sliding plates.

[0022] According to the achievements: - the gripping element is rigidly attached at its two opposite ends to the ends of the two opposite spacer elements, to the left and right uprights of the corresponding pair of uprights, by two standard fixed mechanical connectors, in particular at 90°, - the two spacing elements are rigidly associated at their two ends opposite the gripping element, to the left and right uprights of the corresponding pair of uprights, by two fixed cross mechanical connectors at 90°.

[0023] According to the achievements: - a handle / frame interface of a spacer element occupies an adjustable longitudinal position on that element within a longitudinal portion of that spacer element, the position adjustment being continuous or discrete, and / or - a frame / handle interface of a frame upright occupies on it an adjustable longitudinal position in a longitudinal portion of the front upright, the adjustment of the position being continuous or discrete, so that the position of the handle relative to the frame is adjustable.

[0024] According to the embodiments, the two fixed mechanical link connectors between the gripping element and the two spacing elements are of the same design as standard fixed mechanical link connectors, so as to allow the implementation of fixed mechanical link connectors within a limited range.

[0025] According to one embodiment, the left-right length of the gripping element provided with its two fixed mechanical connectors with the two spacing elements is less than the left-right spacing of the left and right uprights of the corresponding pair of uprights, in particular is close to this spacing.

[0026] According to the embodiments, the means of conveying / supporting objects form a single unit or form several units arranged one above the other and / or arranged next to the other.

[0027] According to the embodiments, the extreme front part is formed by the front left and front right uprights, or is formed by the front end of the object conveying / support means if these protrude forward relative to the front left and front right uprights.

[0028] According to the embodiments, the extreme rear part is formed by the rear left and rear right uprights, or is formed by the rear end of the object conveying / support means if these protrude rearward relative to the rear left and front right uprights.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the handle disposed towards the front is located at a lower level than that of the downstream end of the conveying / supporting means for objects located highest on the device.

[0030] According to one embodiment, the rear-facing handle is located at a lower level than the upstream end of the object conveying / support means located highest on the device.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the space cleared between the gripping element and the extreme front part or the extreme rear part - i.e. the gap of the handle - has a dimension in the horizontal direction of the order of 5 cm to 15 cm.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the vertical distance between the gripping element and the ground-supporting means is in the order of 90 cm to 130 cm.

[0033] According to the embodiments, the length of the input element is close to or greater than approximately 20cm.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the device includes a handle associated either with the extreme front part or with the extreme rear part.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the device includes a handle associated with the extreme front part and a handle associated with the extreme rear part.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the device includes a handle located at a higher level and a handle located at a lower level.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the tubular gripping element includes an extra thickness of a functional coating, in particular elastically deformable radially, suitable for assisting gripping, pulling, pushing, positioning the operator's hands, or preventing undesirable slippage of the hands.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the gripping element includes an external sleeve mounted to pivot, whose function is to place the sleeve in an effective angular position relative to the operator, when moving the device.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the industrial logistics device is a dynamic racking system with an inclined track. According to other embodiments, the industrial logistics device is a workstation, a trolley, a shelving or storage system, a display stand, or a conveyor.

[0040] The invention relates both to the industrial logistics device provided with its handle, in its spatial position suitable for use, or in any other position, whether stopped or in operation, devoid of objects or furnished with one or more objects, in the assembled state or in the disassembled state or in the partially assembled / partially disassembled state, for example the disassembled handle.

[0041] A second object of the invention is a dynamic racking system with an inclined track which has the characteristics of the industrial logistics device previously described. Such dynamic racking comprises an upstream rear support beam located at a higher level and a downstream front support beam located at a lower level, and conveying means comprising at least one conveying track suitable for supporting and moving objects, the conveying track being supported at its ends by the upstream rear and downstream front beams and being inclined from top to bottom and from top to bottom with a high upstream entry end and a low downstream exit end, for the purpose of moving objects supported by the support and movement elements of the conveying means by gravity from top to bottom.Depending on the design, the conveyor track includes mobile or fixed support and movement components, such as rollers, sliding surfaces, or similar components.

[0042] A first third object of the invention is an industrial logistics workstation which has the characteristics of the industrial logistics device previously described and which includes object support means of the type of those of a workstation in the logistics field. For example, but not limited to, a multi-function workstation, a workstation for KLT bins (i.e. Klein Ladungs ​​Trageger or small load carriers) of the VDA (Verband der Automobilindustrie), a FIFO (i.e. first in, first out) supply workstation, a control and finishing workstation, a workstation with a conveyor, a tool-holder workstation, an inclined plane workstation, a workstation with shelves.A second third object of the invention is an industrial logistics trolley that has the characteristics of the industrial logistics device described above and that includes object support means of the type found on a logistics trolley. For example, but not limited to, an e-commerce trolley, an enclosed transport trolley for boxes, KLT trays and cartons, a multi-purpose trolley, a towed trolley, a modular trolley, a shelving trolley, a trolley with roller rails for... easy picking, a compartment trolley, a bin trolley, a compartment trolley. A third object of the invention is an industrial logistics display stand that has the characteristics of the industrial logistics device described above and that includes object support means of the type found in a logistics display stand. For example, but not limited to, a KLT bin display stand, a display stand with a divider, a picking display stand, a FIFO display stand, a display stand with adjustable levels, a bin display stand, a tool holder display stand, a display stand for plates or flat products,

[0043] A fourth object of the invention is a handle specifically intended to be integrated into an industrial logistics device having the characteristics described above, in particular a dynamic inclined track rack, a workstation, a trolley, a shelving system, a display stand, a conveyor.

[0044] Such a handle comprises: - a rigid, cylindrical gripping element, - two rigid, cylindrical, parallel spacer elements arranged transversely with respect to the gripping element, - two standard fixed mechanical connectors between the gripping element and the two spacing elements, - two handle / frame interfaces, on the two spacing elements, opposite the rigid gripping element, capable of cooperating with two fixed cross-linking mechanical connectors. Brief description of the drawings Fig. 1

[0045] [Fig. 1] is a schematic side view of a dynamic shelving unit, being a possible embodiment of an industrial logistics device for conveying / supporting objects according to the invention, comprising a frame, inclined conveying means, load-bearing elements in the form of casters, and a handle for moving the dynamic shelving unit on and in contact with the ground, by pulling or pushing. In the embodiment shown in this figure, the handle is associated with the extreme front part of the dynamic shelving unit and is located at a lower level, but close to, the conveying means.This figure shows a frame with load-bearing elements and fixed frame mechanical connectors of uprights, represented in a purely schematic way, a frame upright with a frame-handle interface, a spacer element and a gripping element forming part of the handle, a handle-frame interface on a spacer element, a fixed mechanical connector. A standard handle between a spacer element and a gripping element, shown schematically, and a fixed cross-shaped mechanical connector between a spacer element and a frame upright, also shown schematically. The figure includes a symbolic representation of a human operator positioned towards the front of the extreme front section of the dynamic racking system, with their hands on the handle and their feet resting on the floor without interfering with the dynamic racking frame, being away from the casters that form the floor-mounted load-bearing elements of the dynamic racking system. Fig. 2

[0046] [Fig.2] is a front elevation view of the dynamic shelving unit with handle according to [Fig. 1]. This figure shows that the handle is integral with the left and right uprights of the dynamic shelving frame. This figure shows uprights having frame-handle interfaces, two spacer elements and a gripping element forming part of the handle, two standard fixed mechanical handle connectors between each spacer element and the gripping element, shown purely schematically, and two fixed cross mechanical connectors between each spacer element and the corresponding frame upright, shown purely schematically. Fig.3

[0047] [Fig.3] is a perspective view illustrating a handle for moving a An industrial logistics device for conveying / supporting objects is shown schematically and partially. This figure illustrates that the handle comprises a gripping element and two spacers that position the gripping element relative to an extreme part (front or rear) of the device. It also shows the arrangement of the gripping element and the two spacers. Furthermore, it demonstrates the rigid connection of each spacer element to its corresponding frame upright via a fixed cross-shaped mechanical connector. Additionally, it shows the rigid connection of the gripping element to each spacer element using a standard fixed handle mechanical connector. Finally, it shows the frame's load-bearing elements, rigidly connected by standard fixed frame mechanical connectors. Fig. 4

[0048] [Fig.4] is a partial, enlarged perspective view of [Fig.3]. It shows A standard fixed mechanical connector for a handle, between a spacer element and a gripping element, passing in the same plane and intersecting at 90°. It shows that this standard fixed mechanical connector for a handle comprises two connecting parts and a means for fixing these two parts together. on the other. It also shows a fixed cross-shaped mechanical connector, at 90°, between a handle spacer element and a frame upright, passing in different planes. It shows that this fixed cross-shaped mechanical connector comprises two connecting pieces and a means of fixing them, the semi-cylindrical cradles of the connecting pieces, forming two hollow cylindrical tubular connecting sections, or collars, spaced transversely apart, tightly clamped onto the extrados of the spacer element and the frame upright. Fig. 5

[0049] [Fig.5] is a schematic perspective view of a cradle connecting piece orthogonal, spaced apart, intended to be placed against another similar connecting piece, head-to-tail, face to face, with a means of fixing, so as to make a fixed mechanical cross-linking connector, as shown in figs. 3-4.

[0050] In the figures, the various parts of the industrial logistics device for conveying / supporting objects, namely a dynamic shelving unit (frame, handle, mechanical connection means), are not necessarily shown at the same scale. In this respect, the figures are purely illustrative and not limiting. DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0051] The invention relates to an industrial logistics device for conveying / supporting objects 1, movable on and in contact with the ground S and provided for this purpose with a handle 2. It also relates to a dynamic inclined-track racking system (or "flow racks") which is a particular embodiment of such a device and which, for this reason, is also referred to as 1. It further relates to a handle 2 comprising two handle / frame interfaces 3 adapted to be rigidly connected to two frame / handle interfaces 4 of a frame 5 of the device, which is then without a handle 2, in order to provide a fixed connection between the handle and the frame. This handle 2 is specifically designed to be integrated into the device 1.

[0052] “Device”, “logistics device”, “industrial logistics device” should be considered synonymous, by ellipsis, with "industrial logistics device for conveying / supporting objects".

[0053] The detailed description of device 1 is given in the case where it is a flow rack with inclined track, which is a particular embodiment. This description can be transposed to other embodiments which include, like the flow rack, a frame 5 including frame load-bearing elements 6, mechanical connectors 14 for fixed connection of the elements 6 to each other, floor load-bearing elements 8 capable of supporting the frame 5 on and in contact with the floor S, without preventing its movement on the floor, and means 9 for conveying / supporting objects. supported by the frame 5 adapted to the function and use of the device. Such other devices may be, for example, a workstation, a trolley, a shelving or storage system, a display stand, a conveyor, these terms corresponding to devices thus designated in the field of industrial logistics (or designated in a similar way).

[0054] Device 1 belongs to the family of those designed, arranged and intended to be movable on and in contact with the ground S. That is to say, the movement of device 1 occurs while it rests on the ground S, in contact with it, and therefore without lifting the device above the ground S.

[0055] The term “conveying” refers to the controlled movement of an object, and the term “support” to the holding of an object. “Object” here means a unit, component, device, or the like, as well as any associated support (such as a container, in particular a KLT container, box, carton, or the like) – whether this support is filled (to form a package or the like) or empty. Such an object, considered as a whole, is an individualized, compact physical entity, having overall rigidity, provided with a base on which it can rest stably, so as to have its own autonomy, and having dimensions and mass enabling it to be positioned in its entirety on an industrial logistics device 1.

[0056] The description refers to the device 1 in its usable spatial position, in which it rests on the ground S, in the assembled, stationary, and empty state. The device 1 may have any other spatial position. The invention also relates to a device 1 in operation and / or furnished with one or more objects. Finally, the invention also relates to a device 1 in the disassembled or partially assembled state.

[0057] The terms used in the description and claims shall be understood in light of the field of the invention, the general knowledge of a person skilled in the art, the given definitions, and the spatial position suitable for the use of the device. "Horizontal" and "vertical," and related positional terms such as "up," "down," "superior," "inferior," etc., shall be understood in their common meaning. "Front," "downstream," or "frontal" refers to the location of the normal exit of objects from the device, while "forward" or "downstream" refers to the direction of movement of objects on the device. "Backward" and "upstream" refer to the location of the normal entry of objects into the device. "Inclined" means making a certain acute angle with respect to a horizontal line or plane."Element" generically refers to a part of the device, including a part or portion of a part or a set of several parts. "Suitable for," when applied to an element, means that the element possesses the qualities that are necessary or appropriate for something, as understood by a person skilled in the art. "Typical" or ". "Typically," in relation to an achievement, means that the achievement is a particularly characteristic example of such an element, without, however, generally being exclusive of other possible achievements.

[0058] “Associated” used in reference to several elements generally means that These are related or combined structurally and / or functionally with a view to a certain result.

[0059] “Rigid”, and any homologous or derived term or expression, means which, in a Under normal use, it resists applied forces and does not deform. "Interface" in the expression "interface A / B" refers to the part of element A by which element A is joined to the part of element B, the latter being called "interface B / A". "Fixed connection", "rigid association", "rigid assembly", "rigidly joined", and any equivalent or derived term or expression, when referring to two elements, means that these elements are arranged so that their interfaces are rigidly joined; that is, when device 1 is at rest or in normal use, these elements do not move relative to each other at their junction.

[0060] “Adjacent” means in the immediate vicinity, but without necessarily making contact, whereas "proche" means near or fairly near. "Extremity" or "extreme" means termination, end edge or similar.

[0061] The device 1 includes a reference frame with three perpendicular planes - a vertical frontal plane which is that of [Fig.2], a vertical sagittal plane PS ([Fig.2]) defining a left side and a right side, opposite, and a horizontal plane PH perpendicular to the plane of [Fig.1], 2, which is that of the ground S. It also includes a reference frame with three perpendicular directions - a vertical direction DV, a back-front direction DAA (intersection of the horizontal plane PH and the sagittal plane PS), and a left-right direction DGD (intersection of the frontal plane and the horizontal plane PH).

[0062] The device 1, lacking the handle 2, forms an assembly which, for its vertical periphery, fits within a boundary envelope of general parallelepiped shape, with an extreme front part LAV, two extreme lateral parts left LLG and right LLD, and an extreme rear part LAR. The extreme front part LAV and extreme rear part LAR are separated along the rear-to-front direction DAA.

[0063] The load-bearing elements 6 of the device 1 forming the structure of the frame 5 are profiled and rigid. These load-bearing elements 6 include a pair of vertical front uprights, left lOag and right lOad, and a pair of vertical rear uprights, left and right 11. The load-bearing elements 6 also include front-rear cross members 12, in particular horizontal ones, and horizontal left-right cross members 13. The frame 5 may also include inclined cross members.

[0064] The load-bearing elements 6 are profiled, cylindrical, and have the same cross-section inscribed in a circular envelope. These load-bearing elements 6 may be hollow tubes These load-bearing elements 6 are made of aluminum or steel, have an outside diameter of approximately 3 cm, specifically 28 mm, and a thickness of approximately 2 mm. They can also be solid bars. These specifications allow for the standardization of a limited number of load-bearing elements 6. These load-bearing elements 6 have a smooth upper surface. These load-bearing elements 6 do not have any permanently integrated fasteners such as holes or protrusions.

[0065] Standard fixed mechanical connectors for a frame 14 are provided for joining adjacent load-bearing elements 6, represented purely symbolically in Figs. 1 and 2. Such a standard fixed mechanical connector for a frame 14 is a means of rigidly joining at least two load-bearing elements 6 (tubes) that lie in the same plane, typically by crossing (in particular at 90°), extending, or pairing. Such a standard fixed mechanical connector for a frame 14 comprises two rigid connecting pieces and an adjustable means for securing these two pieces to each other in a rigid connection. Cradles are provided which, when the connecting pieces are rigidly joined end-to-end by means of the clamping mechanism adjusted for this purpose, form hollow, cylindrical tubular sections suitable for being firmly clamped onto the upper surfaces of the load-bearing elements 6 to be joined, ensuring a rigid connection between them.Examples of such standard fixed mechanical connectors are known or within the grasp of a person skilled in the art and are described, for example, in documents FR3006724, FR303337, EP2123929.

[0066] The load-bearing elements 6 have a configuration adapted to the use of the device 1. In the case of a dynamic racking system 1 (Figs. 1, 2), a rear, upstream, left-right cross member 13a, located at a higher level, is provided, supported by and fixed to the pair of rear uprights 11. A front, downstream, left-right cross member 13b, located at a lower level, is also provided, supported by and fixed to the pair of front left uprights 10ag and right uprights 10ad. These cross members 13a and 13b support, via fixed connecting means, the conveying means 9, at an angle. The conveying means 9 then comprise at least one conveying track having support and movement elements 15a, mobile or fixed, suitable for supporting and moving objects, such as rollers 15a carried by rails 15b themselves supported towards their ends by the two left-right support cross members 13a, 13b, by means of fixed mechanical connection connectors.Depending on the design, the conveyor track includes support and movement elements 15a, which are movable rollers, sliding surfaces, or similar elements. Thus, the conveyor track of the conveying means 9 is inclined from top to bottom and from upstream / backward to downstream / forward, having a high upstream end for object entry and a low downstream end for object exit, for the purpose of gravity-driven movement of objects supported by the elements from upstream to downstream. Support and movement 15a. The inclination of the conveyor track is within the capabilities of a person skilled in the art. Depending on the application, several conveyor tracks are provided, either arranged side by side on the same inclined plane and more or less spaced apart in a left-right direction, or on several levels. Depending on the design, the conveying means 9 form a single unit or several units arranged one above the other and / or side by side. In the case of devices 1 other than dynamic shelving, conveying / support means 9 for objects adapted to the function may be provided, for example, including shelves.

[0067] The conveying means 9 have a front end 9a directed towards the front left-right cross member, downstream 13b, and a rear end 9b directed towards the rear left-right cross member, upstream 13a. In the embodiment of Figs. 1, 2, the front end 9a is located substantially vertically above the pair of front left uprights lOag, right lOad. And the rear end 9b is located substantially vertically above the pair of rear uprights 11. This embodiment is not exclusive of others. The front end 9a may be offset forward of the pair of front left uprights lOag, right lOad. Or, the front end 9a may be offset rearward of the pair of front left uprights lOag, right lOad. For its part, the rear end 9b can be offset towards the rear of the pair of rear uprights 11. Or the rear end 9b can be offset towards the front of the pair of rear uprights 11.

[0068] Depending on these embodiments, the extreme front part LAV is formed either by the pair of front uprights lOag, lOad, or by the front end 9a of the conveying means 9 projecting forward relative to the pair of front uprights lOag, lOad. Similarly, the extreme rear part LAR is formed either by the rear uprights 11, or by the rear end 9b of the conveying means 9 projecting rearward relative to the rear uprights 11.

[0069] The floor-supporting elements 8 are connected to the frame 5, namely to the lower part of the front uprights lOag, lOad and the rear uprights 11, by means of fixed connections. In the embodiments shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the floor-supporting elements 8 are rollers movable along two axes and are cable-operated. In another embodiment, the floor-supporting elements 8 are sliding plates, with friction existing between such plates 8 and the floor S, so that in the absence of any force required for its movement, the device 1 remains stationary on the floor S.

[0070] The handle 2 is suitable for being grasped by an operator OPP whose feet P are on the ground S, the operator OP being located towards the front of the extreme front part LAV or towards the rear of the extreme rear part LAR. Thus, the operator OP can grasp the handle 2 so as to be able to apply a pulling or pushing force to it, this force, being sufficient, being capable of moving the device 1 onto and into contact with the ground, via the load-bearing elements 8, especially and in particular in the rear-front direction DAA. The strength of the handle 2 and of the fixed connection of the handle 2 to the frame 5 via the two handle / frame interfaces 3 and the two frame / handle interfaces 4, rigidly joined by two mechanical cross-shaped fixed connection connectors 16, is determined to be sufficient to prevent deformation or separation, during movement of the device 1 on and in contact with the ground.

[0071] In the simplest embodiment, the operator OP is a human who directly grasps the handle 2 with their hands. In another embodiment, the operator OP is a human who indirectly grasps the handle 2 via a force transmission means (cable, chain, spar, etc.). In yet another embodiment, the operator is a robot.

[0072] The handle 2 comprises, arranged in a rigid assembly, a gripping element 17 and two rigid spacing elements 18d, 18g. The gripping element 17 is elongated, rigid, and suitable for allowing the operator OP to apply a pull or a push in order to move the device 1. The two spreader elements 18d, 18g, have the function of spreading apart, and thus sufficiently clearing, the gripping element 17 towards the front of the extreme front part LAV or towards the rear of the extreme rear part LAR, so as to prevent the feet of the operator OP from interfering with the frame 5 and the supporting elements 8. The gripping element 17 is rigidly associated at its two opposite ends 17g, 17d, at the ends of the two opposite spreader elements 18g, 18d, at the left and right uprights of the corresponding pair of uprights lOag and lOad, or 11, by two standard fixed mechanical handle connectors 20, in particular at 90°.Preferably, the two standard fixed mechanical link connectors of handle 20 between the gripping element 17 and the two spacer elements 18d, 18g are of the same design as the standard fixed mechanical link connectors of frame 14, so as to allow the implementation of fixed mechanical link connectors within a limited range.

[0073] Figs. 1, 2 show that the gripping element 17 is elongated in the left-right direction, i.e., it is arranged horizontally. The two spacer elements 18d, 18g are spaced apart from each other in the left-right direction DGD. The two spacer elements 18d, 18g extend in the rear-front direction DAA and are arranged horizontally. The two spacer elements 18d, 18g are rigidly associated, on the one hand, with the two opposite ends 17g, 17d of the grip element 17 by means of the two standard fixed mechanical link connectors of handle 20, on the other hand, by the two handle / frame interfaces 3 to a pair of frame uprights lOag, lOad, 11, by means of the two fixed mechanical link connectors in cross 16. Other equivalent embodiments may be considered if they provide similar performance.

[0074] The two spacer elements 18d, 18g are spaced apart from each other, parallel to each other in the same direction, namely the rear-to-front direction DAA when the handle 2 is integrated into the device 1. Each of these two spacer elements 18d, 18g comprises one of the two handle / frame interfaces 3. These two spacer elements 18d, 18g are arranged transversely with respect to the gripping element 17. Figs. 1, 2 show that the gripping element 17 is elongated in the left-to-right direction DGC and that the two spacer elements 18d, 18g are spaced apart from each other in the left-to-right direction DGC. Other equivalent embodiments may be considered if they provide similar performance. In one example implementation, the length of input element 17 is equal to or greater than approximately 20cm.The arrangement described above makes it possible to form a clear space 19, between the input element 17 and the extreme front part LAV or the extreme rear part LAR. In an embodiment given by way of example, the clear space 19 has a dimension in the horizontal direction of approximately 5 cm to 15 cm.

[0075] The handle 2 can be described as static, in that, being integrated into the device 1, it is always in a single relative position and a single relative configuration, even when subjected to tension or pressure. The handle 2 is not deformable or movable and lacks any integrated deformable or movable control, actuation, or locking / unlocking mechanism.

[0076] The spacing elements 18d, 18g are designed to transmit to the frame 5 the traction or thrust of displacement.

[0077] The gripping element 17 and the spacer elements 18d, 18g have a structure similar to that of the load-bearing elements 6 of the frame 5, being made from the same profiles. The gripping elements 17 and the spacer elements 18d, 18g are cylindrical profiles with the same cross-section inscribed within a circular envelope. They can be hollow tubes or solid bars. They have a smooth outer surface. Their diameter is approximately 3 cm, in particular 28 mm.

[0078] The handle 2 includes two standard fixed mechanical connectors 20 for the handle, between the gripping element 17 and the two spacer elements 18d, 18g. These connectors 20 are of the same type as the connectors 14 for the frame elements 6 5.

[0079] The two handle / frame interfaces 3 are located on the two spacer elements 18d, 18g, opposite the rigid gripping element 17. The two handle / frame interfaces 3 are able to cooperate with the two fixed cross mechanical link connectors 16, here at 90°, which themselves are able to cooperate with the two frame / handle interfaces 4.

[0080] A fixed cross-shaped mechanical connector 16 designates a means for rigidly joining two elongated elements (typically tubes) that intersect by passing through different planes. Such a fixed cross-shaped mechanical connector 16 comprises two separate rigid connecting pieces 16a, one of which is shown in [Fig. 5], and a means 16b for adjustablely fastening the two connecting pieces 16a to each other in a rigid connection. Each connecting piece 16a comprises a core 21 and two semi-cylindrical cradles 22a, 22b, separated from each other by two transverse axes. These two cradles 22a, 22b are arranged on either side of the core 21.The two connecting pieces 16a are arranged end-to-end against each other, so that the cradles 22a, 22b cooperate to form two hollow cylindrical tubular connecting sections 23a, 23b, or collars, while the two connecting pieces 16a are rigidly joined to each other by the fastening means 16b designed for this purpose ([Fig. 4]). The two tubular assembly sections 23a, 23b are arranged transversely spaced apart. They are rigidly joined by a core formed by the cooperation of the two cores 21 of the connecting pieces 16a, joined by the fastening means 16b. The two tubular assembly sections 23a, 23b, or collars, are suitable for being tightened firmly, by means of the fixing means 16b, on the extrados of the two elements to be assembled in different planes, ensuring a rigid connection between them.With a fixed cross-shaped mechanical connector 16, at 90°, the two axes of the two tubular assembly sections 23a, 23b, or clamps, are at 90°. In another embodiment, the two axes of the two tubular assembly sections 23a, 23b, or clamps, are oblique.

[0081] The two spacer elements 18d, 18g are rigidly connected at their two opposite ends to the grip element 17, to the left and right uprights of the corresponding pair of uprights lOag, lOad, or 11, by the two fixed cross mechanical connectors 16, here at 90°. The two fixed cross mechanical connectors 16 are each a rigid mechanical assembly means of a spacer element 18d, 18g, by the handle / frame interface 3 which it comprises and of a corresponding upright lOag, lOad, or 11, by the frame / handle interface 4 which it comprises.

[0082] The design of the spacer elements 18d, 18g, particularly their streamlined shape and smooth upper surface, allows the handle / frame interface 3 of a spacer element 18d, 18g to occupy an adjustable longitudinal position within a longitudinal (axial) portion of that spacer element 18d, 18g. This position adjustment can be continuous. If so, it is discrete. The analogous design of the uprights lOag, lOad, 11 allows, alternatively or cumulatively, the frame / handle interface 4 of an upright lOag, lOad, 11 to occupy an adjustable longitudinal position within a longitudinal (axial) portion of that upright lOag, 10ad, 11. This position adjustment can be continuous. If so, it is discreet. These design features ensure that the handle 2 has an adjustable position relative to the frame 5.

[0083] With the implementation of fixed cross-link mechanical connectors 16, the horizontal left-to-right length of the grip element 17, equipped with its two fixed handle mechanical connectors 20, and the two spacer elements 18d, 18g, is less than the left-to-right spacing of the left uprights lOag, 11, and right uprights lOad, 11 of the corresponding pair of uprights. The difference in length is that of the two fixed cross-link mechanical connectors 16. With fixed cross-link mechanical connectors 16 whose length is on the order of a few centimeters, the length of the grip element 17 is close to the spacing of the left uprights lOag, 11, and right uprights lOad, 11.

[0084] Figs. 1, 2 show that the handle 2, arranged towards the front, is located at a lower level than that of the front, downstream end, 9a of the means 9 for conveying the dynamic racking 1. In the case where this front, downstream end, 9a is too close to the ground S to position a handle, and where the front uprights lOag, lOad are of low height, it is possible to consider that the front uprights lOag, lOad are extended upwards by risers, so that the handle 2 is then located at a higher level than that of the front, downstream end, 9a.

[0085] According to one embodiment, not shown, the handle 2 is disposed towards the rear and is located at a level lower than that of the rear, upstream end 9b of the conveying means 9, located highest on the dynamic racking 1.

[0086] In an embodiment given by way of example, the vertical spacing between the gripping element 17 and the ground-supporting means 8, and therefore the ground S, is on the order of 90 cm to 130 cm.

[0087] Figs. 1 and 2 show an embodiment of the dynamic shelving unit 1 which includes a handle 2 associated with the frontmost section LAV. In another embodiment not shown, the handle 2 is associated with the rearmost section LAR. In yet another embodiment not shown, the dynamic shelving unit 1 includes a handle 2 associated with the frontmost section LAV and a handle associated with the rearmost section LAR. Furthermore, according to yet another embodiment not shown, the dynamic shelving unit 1 includes a handle 2 located at an upper level and a handle 2 located at a lower level.

[0088] According to a possibility not shown, the tubular gripping element 17 has an extra thickness of a functional coating, in particular elastically deformable radially, suitable for assisting gripping, pulling, pushing, positioning the hands of the operator OP, or for preventing undesirable slippage of the hands.

[0089] According to another possibility not shown, the gripping element 17 includes an external sleeve mounted to pivot, whose function is to place the sleeve in an effective angular position relative to the operator OP, when moving the device 1.

Claims

1. Demands Industrial logistics device for conveying or supporting objects, having vertical, back-to-front and left-to-right reference directions, such as: - a frame (5) includes rigid, cylindrical frame load-bearing elements (6), including vertical uprights, namely a pair of front uprights, left and right (lOag, lOad), and a pair of rear uprights, left and right (11), rear-front cross members (12) and left-right cross members (13), - Standard fixed mechanical frame connectors (14) between adjacent frame load-bearing elements (6) include two cradle-shaped connecting pieces, arranged face to face and rigidly joined to each other by a fastening means, and provide a fixed connection between adjacent frame load-bearing elements (6), - load-bearing elements (8) on the ground are connected to the frame (5) by fixed links, and support the frame (5) on and in contact with the ground, without preventing its movement on and in contact with the ground, - means (9) for conveying or supporting objects are carried by the frame (5) and adapted to the function of the device, - the frame (5), the load-bearing elements (8) and the conveying or support means (9) form an assembly having an extreme front part (LAV), an extreme rear part (LAR), and two lateral parts, left and right, characterized in that: - it comprises at least one handle (2) with two handle parts by which the handle (2) is joined to the frame (3), while a pair of frame uprights (5) comprises two frame parts by which the frame (3) is joined to the handle, in order to allow a fixed connection of the handle (2) to the frame (5), - the handle (2) is suitable for being grasped by an operator with their feet on the ground, and is located towards the front of the extreme front part (LAV) or towards the rear of the extreme part rear (LAR), so as to be able to withstand pulling or pushing forces capable of moving the device (1) on and in contact with the ground, particularly in a back-to-forth direction, the strength of the handle (2) and of the fixed connection of the handle (2) to the frame (5) is determined to be sufficient to prevent deformation or separation during movement of the device (1) on and in contact with the ground, the handle (2) comprises, arranged in a rigid assembly, an elongated gripping element (17), capable of allowing the operator to apply a pulling or pushing force, and two spacing elements (18d, 18g) of the gripping element (17) towards the front of the extreme front part (LAV) or towards the rear of the extreme rear part (LAR), so as to form a clear space (19) between the gripping element (17) and the extreme front part (LAV) or the extreme rear part (LAR), the spacing elements (18d, 18g) being capable of transmitting traction or thrust to the frame (5),The gripping element (17) and the spacer elements (18d, 18g) are cylindrical and of a structure analogous to that of the frame uprights (10ag, 10ad, 11) (5). The two spacer elements (18d, 18g) are parallel to each other in the rear-front direction, spaced apart from each other, and each comprises one of the two handle parts by which the handle (2) is joined to the frame (3). A handle part by which the handle (2) is joined to the frame (3) and a frame part by which the frame (3) is joined to the handle are joined by a fixed cross-shaped mechanical connector (16), comprising two rigid connecting pieces with semi-cylindrical cradles spaced apart from each other by two transverse axes, and an adjustable means for fixing the two connecting pieces to each other by a rigid connection, so that the spacer element (18d, 18g) concerned and a building amount that intersect by passing through different planes,are rigidly joined by two hollow cylindrical tubular sections formed by the cradles and clamped on their extrados. - the spacing elements (18d, 18g) are suitable for sufficiently clearing the gripping element (17) towards the front of the extreme front part (LAV) or towards the rear of the extreme rear part (LAR), to prevent the operator's feet from interfering with the frame (5) and the load-bearing elements.

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the gripping element (17) is elongated in the left-right direction, the two spacer elements (18d, 18g) are separated from each other in the left-right direction, and are rigidly associated, on the one hand, with the two extreme parts of the gripping element (17), on the other hand, by the two handle parts by which the handle (2) is joined to the frame (3) to a pair of frame uprights (1Oag, 1Oad, 11) (5).

3. Device according to any one of claims 1, 2, wherein the vertical uprights (1Oag, 1Oad, 11), the gripping element (17) and the spacer elements (18d, 18g), have the same cross-section, inscribed in a circular envelope of the same diameter, in particular are hollow tubes or solid bars, in particular based on steel or aluminium.

4. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the load-bearing elements (8) are rollers movable about two axes and biocables or sliding plates.

5. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: - the gripping element (17) is rigidly associated at its two opposite ends to the ends of the two spacer elements (18d, 18g) opposite the left and right uprights (lOag, lOad, 11) of the corresponding pair of uprights, by two standard fixed mechanical handle connectors (20), in particular at 90°, - the two spacer elements (18d, 18g) are rigidly associated at their two opposite ends to the gripping element (17), to the left and right uprights (lOag, lOad, 11) of the corresponding pair of uprights, by two fixed mechanical cross connectors (16) at 90°.

6. A device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: - a handle portion by which the handle (2) is joined to the frame (3) of a spacer element (18d, 18g) occupies on it an adjustable longitudinal position in a longitudinal portion of this spacer element (18d, 18g), the position adjustment being continuous or discrete, and / or - a frame part by which the frame (3) is joined to the handle of an upright occupies on it an adjustable longitudinal position in a longitudinal portion of the front upright, the position adjustment being continuous or discrete, so that the position of the handle (2) relative to the frame (5) is adjustable.

7. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the left-right length of the gripping element (17) provided with its two fixed mechanical handle linkage connectors (20) with the two spacer elements (18d, 18g) is smaller than the left-right spacing of the left and right uprights (1Oag, 1Oad, 11) of the corresponding pair of uprights, in particular is close to this spacing.

8. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, which: - comprises a handle (2) associated either with the extreme front part (LAV) or with the extreme rear part (LAR), and / or - comprises a handle (2) located at a higher level and a handle (2) located at a lower level.

9. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the tubular gripping element (17) has an extra thickness of a functional coating, in particular elastically deformable radially, suitable for assisting gripping, pulling, pushing, positioning the operator's hands, or for preventing undesired slippage of the hands.

10. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the gripping element (17) has a mounted external sleeve capable of pivoting, having the function of placing the sleeve in an effective angular position relative to the operator, when moving the device (1).

11. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 10 which is a dynamic inclined track rack for industrial logistics.

12. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, which is an industrial logistics workstation, an industrial logistics trolley,

13.

14. an industrial logistics shelving or storage system, an industrial logistics display stand, an industrial logistics conveyor. Dynamic industrial logistics shelving, which has the characteristics of the industrial logistics device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and which comprises an upstream rear support cross member (13a), located at a higher level and a downstream front support cross member (13b), located at a lower level, and conveying means 9 comprising at least one conveying track suitable for supporting and moving objects, the conveying track being carried towards its ends (9a, 9b) by the upstream rear cross member (13a) and the downstream front cross member (13b) and being inclined from top to bottom and from top to bottom with a high upstream entry end and a low downstream exit end, for the purpose of moving by gravity from top to bottom the objects supported by the support and movement members (15a) of the conveying means (9). Industrial logistics trolley, which has the characteristics of the industrial logistics device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 and which includes means for supporting objects.

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