Loading station and installation including such a loading station

Abstract

A filling station comprising at least one upper tank (11) for holding marbles, and at least one outlet pipe (12) connected to the tank (11), the filling station comprising at least one level sensor (21) for detecting the fill level of the marbles poured from the loading station (4) into a trolley (5, 9) arranged at the level of the outlet pipe (12). Corresponding installation. Abstract figure: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Loading station and installation comprising such a loading station

[0001] The invention relates to a loading station.

[0002] The invention also relates to an installation comprising such a loading station.

[0003] TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

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

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

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

[0007] Each electrolytic cell, considered as a predominantly metallic and conductive component (although some parts may be non-metallic), is generally composed of two bipolar plates framing two interlayers (more commonly known as "flow field material"), which themselves frame two electrodes generally in the form of metallic plates, grids, or fabrics. In the case of an alkali electrolyzer stack, these electrodes are generally made of nickel. The two electrodes (a cathode and an anode) are separated by a membrane (also called a diaphragm or porous separator in the case of the alkali electrolyzer), which provides electrical insulation between the two electrodes, gas separation, and ionic conduction within the electrolytic cell.

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

[0009] The name bipolar plate comes from the fact that, since the electrolytic cells are all joined together, a bipolar plate N will have a potential:

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

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

[0012] Among the other metal parts, in addition to the bipolar plates, are listed the distribution plates (which allow the supply and electrical distribution of the electrolytic cells) as well as the base plates (allowing the delimitation of all the electrolytic cells and ensuring the tightening of said electrolytic cells together and their sealing).

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

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

[0015] The electrolyzer stack cannot therefore operate continuously if a leak is detected, whether said leak originates from the electrolytic solution, the gases generated by electrolysis, or any other substance. In many cases, various problems arise, negatively impacting the environment and operator safety, with varying degrees of severity, potentially reaching a significantly high level with irreversible consequences.

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

[0017] Within the device, and particularly within the electrolyzer stack, many components intended to come into contact with the electrolyte are protected by a layer of nickel, commonly referred to as "nickel plating." The objective of applying a nickel layer is, firstly, to ensure good corrosion resistance and, secondly, to prevent hydrogen and / or oxygen from penetrating these fundamental components of the electrolyzer stack mentioned above, and more specifically where imperfections are present. In other words, it is imperative that the nickel layer be as homogeneous as possible to limit any leakage of hydrogen and / or oxygen, however minimal.

[0018] From a practical standpoint, poor nickel plating is detected by the presence of brownish spots inside the aforementioned elements or revealed by a copper sulfate test. In the latter case, if the copper sulfate adheres to the potentially nickel-plated area, this means that the nickel has not adhered correctly and effectively. In both cases, this verification is carried out during the manufacturing of the various parts of the electrolyzer, in other words, when the different constituent elements of the electrolyzer are nickel-plated and assembled.

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

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

[0021] Before the bath, the bipolar plate is suspended from a bar by means of a hook. The bipolar plate is then immersed in the nickel plating bath, and an electric current is passed through the bar. The electric current, via the hook, can thus pass through the bipolar plate, resulting in nickel plating.

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

[0023] Since nickel is a very dense metal, an operator unfortunately has to manually pour bags containing small quantities of nickel beads into the basket several times in order to fill it.

[0024] Such an operation proves to be restrictive for the operator and presents security risks due to the repetition of payments by the operator.

[0025] SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0026] One object of the invention is to propose a solution that makes it possible to overcome at least in part the aforementioned disadvantages. Summary of the invention

[0027] For this purpose, the invention provides a filling station comprising at least one upper tank intended to contain balls, and at least one outlet pipe connected to the tank, the filling station comprising at least one sensor for detecting a filling level intended to detect the filling level of the balls poured by the loading station into a trolley arranged at the level of the outlet pipe.

[0028] Thus, the loading station allows for faster and easier filling of at least one trolley with balls, for example with metal balls and for example with nickel balls.

[0029] In particular, an operator does not need to move bags of marbles to baskets. The operator can use the loading station to fill a trolley quickly and easily.

[0030] In addition, handling the trolley will be safer, simpler and easier than repetitive transport of small bags.

[0031] Subsequently, the terms "upper", "lower", "high", "low", ... should be understood according to the service position of the loading station, i.e., the position in which the loading station rests on the ground, ready to dump logs into at least one trolley.

[0032] Optionally, the tank is equipped with at least one cutting element.

[0033] Optionally, the tank is completely open at its top or partially open at the top.

[0034] Optionally, the tank is shaped into a funnel narrowing towards the ground.

[0035] Optionally, the pipe has an elbow.

[0036] Optionally, the filling station includes two outlet pipes connected to the tank, the two pipes extending symmetrically on either side of the tank along at least one axis of symmetry.

[0037] Optionally, the pipeline is equipped with a valve.

[0038] The installation includes at least one row of baskets and at least one filling station as mentioned above.

[0039] Optionally, the loading station is arranged at one longitudinal end of the row of baskets.

[0040] Optionally, the row of baskets is a first row of baskets, the installation comprising a second row of baskets arranged in the opposite direction to the first row of baskets.

[0041] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a particular, non-limiting embodiment of the invention. Brief description of the drawings

[0042] Reference will be made to the attached drawings, among which:

[0043] [Fig-1] [Fig.1] is a schematic perspective view of an installation according to a a particular embodiment of the invention;

[0044] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of part of the installation shown to [Fig.1];

[0045] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of another part of the installation represented in [Fig.1]. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0046] With reference to figures 1 to 3, the installation 1 according to a particular embodiment of the invention is at least configured to allow the filling of at least one basket with balls and for example with metal balls and for example with nickel balls.

[0047] In the present case, the installation 1 comprises at least a first row 2 of baskets 3 (only a part of which is referenced here) intended to receive the balls. The baskets 3 are, for example, made of titanium. The baskets 3 thus extend successively one after the other along a first direction X. The first direction X is, for example, horizontal.

[0048] The first row 2 of baskets 3 comprises at least three baskets 3, and for example, at least five baskets 3, and for example, at least ten baskets 3, and for example, at least fifteen baskets 3. The data indicated above are not limiting, and the number of baskets 3 may therefore differ from what has been indicated. Each basket 3 extends longitudinally parallel to a second direction Y, which is orthogonal to the first direction X. Each basket 3 extends vertically. The first direction Y is thus vertical.

[0049] The different baskets 3 extend one after the other along the first direction X and parallel to each other.

[0050] The installation 1 also includes at least one ball loading station 4 and at least one first ball filling trolley 5 for the baskets 3 of the first row 2.

[0051] Preferably, the loading station 4 is arranged at one end of the first row 2 of baskets 3.

[0052] Preferably, the installation 1 is configured so that the first filling trolley 5 can move from the loading station 4 to at least one of the baskets 3 of the first row 2 and preferably to the basket 3 of the first row 2 furthest from the loading station 4.

[0053] For example, the first filling trolley 5 is arranged in the installation 1 so as to be able to slide along the first row 2. For example, the installation 1 has a first rail 6 resting on the floor, first rail 6 in which the first filling trolley 5 is received by sliding. Preferably, the loading station 4 is arranged at one of the longitudinal ends of the first rail 6.

[0054] The first rail 6 is arranged along the first row 2. The first row 2 thus forms a border of the first rail 6. The first rail 6 extends, for example, parallel to the first direction X.

[0055] The first filling carriage 5 can thus slide parallel to the first direction X from right to left and vice versa.

[0056] The first filling trolley 5 can thus slide along the first row 2 between a first end position where the first filling trolley 5 is at the level of the loading station 4 and a second end position where the first filling trolley 5 is at the level of the basket 3 of the first row 2 furthest from the loading station 4.

[0057] The movement of the first filling trolley 5 along the first row 2 is optionally motorized by at least one actuation system and / or is ensured by an operator.

[0058] Preferably, the installation 1 is at least configured to allow the filling of at least a second row 7 of baskets 8 (only a part of which is referenced here) with marbles and for example with metal marbles and for example with nickel marbles.

[0059] The installation 1 therefore comprises at least a second row 7 of baskets 8 for receiving the balls. The baskets 8 are, for example, made of titanium. The baskets 8 extend successively one after the other along the first direction X. The second row 7, however, extends in the opposite direction to the first row 2 with respect to the loading station 4. Thus, the first row 2 and the second row 7 are symmetrical with respect to the loading station 4 along an orthogonal axis of symmetry defined along the second direction Y. The orthogonal axis of symmetry extends vertically here.

[0060] The second row 7 comprises at least three baskets 8 and, for example, at least five baskets 8 and, for example, at least ten baskets 8 and, for example, at least fifteen Baskets 8. The data indicated above is not exhaustive, and the number of baskets 8 may therefore differ from what has been indicated. Each basket 8 extends longitudinally parallel to the second Y direction. Each basket 8 extends vertically.

[0061] The different baskets 8 extend one after the other along the second direction X and parallel to each other.

[0062] Installation 1 also includes at least one second filling trolley 9 for filling the baskets 8 of the second row 7 with balls.

[0063] Preferably, the loading station 4 is arranged at one end of the second row 7.

[0064] Preferably, the installation 1 is configured so that the second filling trolley 9 can move from the loading station 4 to at least one of the baskets 8 of the second row 7 and preferably to the basket 8 of the second row 7 furthest from the loading station 4.

[0065] For example, the second filling trolley 9 is arranged in the installation 1 so as to be able to slide along the second row 7. For example, the installation 1 has a second rail 10 resting on the floor, a second rail 10 in which the second filling trolley 9 is received by sliding. Preferably, the loading station 4 is arranged at one of the longitudinal ends of the second rail 10.

[0066] The second rail 10 is arranged along the second row 7. The second row 7 thus forms a border of the second rail 10. The second rail 10 extends, for example, parallel to the first direction X.

[0067] The second filling carriage 9 can thus slide parallel to the first direction X from right to left and vice versa.

[0068] The second filling trolley 9 can thus slide along the second row 7 between a first end position where the second filling trolley 9 is level with the loading station 4 and a second end position where the second filling trolley 9 is level with the basket 8 of the second row 7 furthest from the loading station 4.

[0069] The movement of the second filling trolley 9 along the second row 7 is optionally motorized by at least one actuation system and / or is ensured by an operator.

[0070] As the second row 7 extends opposite the first row 2, the loading station 4 is located between the two rows 2, 7.

[0071] The installation 1 thus described has a central loading station 4 and, on either side of it 4, rows 2, 7 of baskets 3, 8, each of which 2, 7 is associated respectively with a filling trolley 5, 9.

[0072] We will now describe the loading station 4.

[0073] The loading station 4 comprises a tank 11 arranged in the upper part of the loading station 4. The tank 11 is either fully open at its top or partially open at its top. The inlet of the tank 11 is thus formed by this opening. In this way, beads can be poured into the tank 11 from the top of the loading station 4 (and therefore from the top of the tank 11).

[0074] The tank 11 is for example shaped into a funnel narrowing along the Y direction but in the opposite direction, in other words towards the ground.

[0075] The tank 11 also has at least one outlet and in the present case has at least two outlets.

[0076] Each outlet is associated with one of the respective rows 2, 7 on the one hand and with the tank 11 on the other hand. For example, each of the outlets is formed into a pipe 12 extending from the tank 11 towards one of the respective rows 2, 7.

[0077] For example, each pipe 12 is formed into a closed channel opening at one end into the tank 11 and opening at a second end at one of the respective rows 2, 7.

[0078] For example, each pipe 12 has a bend. For example, each pipe 12 has a first section 13a extending straight up at an angle between its first end and the bend. The first end opens, for example, into the bottom of the tank 11. For example, each pipe 12 has a second section 13b extending straight up from the bend to the second end of the pipe 12, the second section 13b extending transversely or perpendicularly to the first section 13a. Preferably, the second section 13b extends vertically (i.e., here parallel to the second Y direction) with its second end pointing towards the ground. Preferably, the installation 1 is configured so that, when each filling trolley 5, 9 is in its first end position, the second end of the associated pipe 12 opens above a reservoir 16 of said filling trolley 5, 9.The balls are thus poured into the filling trolley 5, 9 obliquely at first and vertically at second from the pipe 12 according to the speed of the ball pouring.

[0079] Preferably, the two pipes 12 extend symmetrically on either side of the tank 11 along at least one axis of symmetry. This axis of symmetry is, for example, vertical. This axis of symmetry passes, for example, through the center of the tank 11 and / or the loading station 4. This configuration is similar to that described previously with regard to the respective positions of the rows 2 and 7.

[0080] Preferably, the loading station 4 comprises at least one cutting element 14. Said cutting element 14 is, for example, arranged in the tank 11 and, for example, inside the tank 11. Said cutting element 14 is, for example, arranged along from one of the sides of the tank 11 and / or at the center thereof and / or above the first end of at least one of the pipes 12. Said cutting element 14 is, for example, a cutting element such as, for example, but not limited to, a serrated blade. Optionally, two cutting elements 14 may be arranged in the tank 11, for example, on opposite sides of the tank 11.

[0081] The filling station 4 is equipped with at least one detection sensor 15. This detection sensor 15 is a sensor for detecting the fill level of the tank 16 of the associated filling trolley 5, 9. For example, the detection sensor 15 is an optical sensor. For example, the detection sensor 15 directs a measuring beam towards the bottom of the tank 16, which makes it possible to estimate the fill level of the tank 16. For example, the measuring beam extends along at least one axis, which is optionally vertical.

[0082] Preferably, said detection sensor 15 is carried by one of the pipes 12. For example, each of the pipes 12 is equipped with such a detection sensor 15 to estimate the fill level of the associated filling trolley 5, 9. The filling trolleys 5, 9 are thus arranged in their first end position so that their reservoir 16 extends under the beam of the opposing detection sensor 15 so that the latter 15 can reach the bottom of the reservoir 16.

[0083] We will now describe one of the filling trolleys 5, 9. The two filling trolleys 5, 9 are in fact identical here so that the following description of the first filling trolley 5 is also applicable here to the second filling trolley 9. This application is of course not limiting and it may be possible to have two different filling trolleys 5, 9 within the same installation 1.

[0084] The first filling trolley 5 comprises a frame 17 equipped with a reservoir 16 arranged in the upper part of the frame 17. The reservoir 16 is either fully open at its top or partially open at its top. The inlet of the reservoir 16 is thus defined by this opening. In this way, marbles can be poured into the reservoir 16 from the top of the first filling trolley 5 (and therefore from the top of the reservoir 16).

[0085] The reservoir 16 is, for example, shaped like a funnel narrowing along the Y direction but in the opposite direction, that is, towards the ground. The reservoir 16 also extends substantially parallel to the Y direction.

[0086] The first filling trolley 5 also includes at least one means 18 for conveying the balls from the reservoir 16 to a chute 19 of the first filling trolley 5. The conveying means 18 is, for example, a vibrating tube or a conveying screw. For example, the conveying means 18 is a screw conveyor or Archimedes screw.

[0087] The conveying means 18 extends here from the tank 16 towards the first row 2. Preferably, the tank 16 is located at the front of the first filling trolley 5 and the conveying means 18 at the rear of the first filling trolley 5 between the tank 16 and the first row 2.

[0088] Preferably, the conveying means 18 is motorized. To this end, the first filling trolley 5 includes at least one actuator for the conveying means 18. The actuator is, for example, a motor that drives the conveying means 18 in rotation.

[0089] As already indicated, the first filling trolley 5 includes a chute 19 associated with the conveying means 18.

[0090] For example, the chute 19 has an upper end connected to the conveying means 18 and a lower end extending above the first row 2.

[0091] Preferably the chute 19 is shaped into a closed channel opening at its two lower and upper ends.

[0092] For example, the chute 19 has a bend. For example, the chute 19 has a first section 20a extending straight up at an angle from its upper end to the bend. For example, the chute 19 has a second section 20b extending straight down from the bend to the lower end of the chute 19, the second section 20b extending transversely or perpendicularly to the first section 20a. Preferably, the second section 20b extends vertically (here parallel to the second direction Y) with the second opening facing the ground. The second section 20b also extends substantially parallel to the direction Y but in the opposite direction, that is, towards the ground. The balls are thus discharged vertically from the chute 19 into the basket 3, opposite the chute 19.

[0093] The chute 19 extends here from the first filling trolley 5 towards the first row 2. Preferably, the tank 16 is located in front of the first filling trolley 5 and the chute 19 is at the rear of the first filling trolley 5 between the tank 16 and the first row 2.

[0094] Preferably, the first filling trolley 5 is equipped with at least one detection sensor 21. This detection sensor 21 is, for example, a sensor for detecting the fill level of the basket 3 opposite the first filling trolley 5. For example, the detection sensor 21 is an optical sensor. For example, the detection sensor 21 directs a measuring beam towards the bottom of the basket 3, which makes it possible to estimate the fill level of said basket 3. For example, the measuring beam extends along at least one axis, which is optionally vertical. Preferably, this detection sensor 21 is mounted on the chute 19.

[0095] Preferably, the first filling trolley 5 includes at least one positioning sensor 22. The positioning sensor 22 is, for example, a positioning sensor 22 of the first filling trolley 5 relative to the first row 2. Said positioning sensor 22 is, for example, a sensor for detecting the presence of at least one characteristic element of a basket 3, such as the upright M of a basket 3 (upright M allowing the basket 3 to be fixed to a support such as, for example, a bar B as described below) – only some of the uprights being referenced here. For example, the positioning sensor 22 is an optical sensor. For example, the sensor directs a measuring beam towards the first row 2, which makes it possible to estimate the relative position between the first filling trolley 5 and at least one of the baskets 3 in the first row 2.For example, the measurement beam extends along at least one axis, which is optionally horizontal.

[0096] Preferably, the first filling trolley 5 includes at least one positioning sensor 23. The positioning sensor 23 is, for example, a positioning sensor of the first filling trolley 5 relative to the first row 2. Said positioning sensor 23 is, for example, a sensor for detecting the presence of at least one characteristic element of a basket 3, such as the height of a basket 3. For example, the positioning sensor 23 is an optical sensor. For example, the positioning sensor 23 directs a measuring beam towards the first row 2, which makes it possible to estimate the relative position between the first filling trolley 5 and at least one of the baskets 3 in the first row 2. For example, the measuring beam extends along at least one axis, which is optionally horizontal.

[0097] Preferably, the two positioning sensors 22, 23 are arranged to detect, one the right upright and the other the left upright of the same basket 3 when the first filling trolley 5 is opposite said basket 3. This ensures that the first filling trolley 5 is properly centered with respect to said basket 3. In particular, when each of the positioning sensors 22, 23 detects an upright of the same basket 3, the chute 19 extends above the basket 3 in question, and for example a few centimeters above the basket 3 in question, while being centered with respect to said basket 3.

[0098] Preferably, the chute 19 is deployable in the first filling carriage 5 between a rest position in which it 19 is away from the first row 2 and a working position in which its second end extends above the baskets 3. For example, the chute 19 moves from its rest position to its working position along a deployment direction Z that is orthogonal to the first direction X and the second direction Y. For example, said deployment direction Z is horizontal.

[0099] The movement of the chute 19 between its rest position and its working position is achieved, for example, by translation and / or by rotation and / or by telescoping of the chute 19. Preferably, the conveying means 18 remains fixed relative to the chassis 17. It is the deployment of the chute 19 that allows the distance between the first filling trolley 5 and the first row 2 to be managed.

[0100] The deployment of the chute 19 is preferably motorized. The deployment of the chute 19 is controlled automatically and / or manually. For this purpose, the first filling trolley 5 may be equipped with at least one control button 24 for deploying the chute 19, the control button 24 being located on the front face of the frame 17 (i.e., opposite the face of the frame 17 facing the first row 2). Preferably, the first filling trolley 5 is equipped with two control buttons 24 for deploying the chute 19, the control buttons 24 being located on the front face of the frame 17 and on opposite edges of said front face of the frame 17. This enhances the overall safety, as the operator must simultaneously activate both control buttons 24 to deploy or retract the chute 19.

[0101] Preferably, the first filling carriage 5 includes at least one stop system to define at least one of the rest or working positions of the chute 19. Preferably, the system includes at least one stop to define the working position of the chute 19. Preferably, the system includes at least two stops 25a, 25b to define the working position of the chute 19.

[0102] For example, each of the stops 25a, 25b is fixed in movement to the chute 19 so that the stops 25a, 25b move towards the first row 2 with the chute 19. The stops 25a, 25b therefore move in the direction of the first row 2 according to at least one translational movement along the third direction Z.

[0103] When stops 25a and 25b each come into contact with one of the respective uprights of the basket 3, the deployment of the chute 19 is stopped, the chute 19 being in its working position. The deployment can be stopped manually and / or automatically. For example, a light and / or sound indicator, preferably located on the first filling carriage 5, can be activated. This can alert the operator that the chute 19 is in its resting position and that they can therefore stop the deployment of the chute 19 (for example, by releasing the buttons 24).

[0104] Preferably, the free end of at least one of the stops 25a, 25b (i.e., the one intended to come into contact with one of the uprights of the basket 3 referred to) is provided with an elastically deformable element (bushing, spring, etc.). Thus said element elastically deformable will come to crush on the associated upright when the chute 19 is in its working position.

[0105] Optionally, the deformation of said elastically deformable element is measured continuously (for example by at least one sensor carried by the first filling trolley 5 such as for example a force sensor): as soon as the tension felt by the elastically deformable element reaches a threshold value, a signal is managed to stop the deployment of the chute 19.

[0106] Installation 1 is preferably used for filling baskets 3 with beads, for example metal beads and nickel beads, so that said beads can be used in one or more electroplating baths. These electroplating baths are used, for example, for electroplating one or more parts, for example one or more parts of an electrolyzer stack, and for example one or more bipolar plates.

[0107] Furthermore, each row 2, 7 of baskets 3, 8 is arranged so that all the baskets 3, 8 of said row 2, 7 are attached (via their uprights) to the same anodic bar B. Thus, when the latter is brought into a treatment bath (for example by a robot), it carries with it the entire row of associated baskets 3, 8.

[0108] It should be noted that the two bars B arranged to the right and left of the loading station 4 are not symmetrical along a vertical axis of symmetry passing through the center of the installation 1 (here passing through the center of the loading station 4). This is due in particular to the fact that the baskets 3, 8 are mounted in different orientations on the same bar B. In fact, for the same bar B, the baskets 3, 8 are arranged according to a succession of "left" baskets (defining a first relative orientation with respect to the bar B) and a succession of "right" baskets (defining a second relative orientation with respect to the bar B). Similarly, one can thus speak of a right bar B and a left bar B in the installation 1.

[0109] During operation, an operator places a bag of marbles into tank 11. Such a bag usually weighs around one tonne or more. Such a bag is placed in tank 11, for example, using a lifting machine or any other lifting means.

[0110] When the bag of beads comes into contact with at least one cutting element 14, said bag of beads is torn at its base: the beads then fill the tank 11.

[0111] Preferably, the first ends of the right and left pipes 12 are associated with check valves allowing temporary blocking of access to the right and left pipes 12. For example, at least one of the check valves has a disc fixed relative to the tank 11 and a disc mounted to rotate relative to the fixed disc. The two discs are drilled so that depending on the relative position between the fixed disc and the rotating mounted disc, the drillings of the discs are opposite each other (allowing access to the associated pipe 12) or the drillings are offset (blocking access to the associated pipe 12).

[0112] If one of the filling trolleys 5, 9 is in its first end position (for example the first filling trolley 5), the associated pipe valve 12 is then opened and the balls are poured from the tank 11 into the pipe 12 and then into the reservoir 16 of the first filling trolley 5. The opening of the valve can be automatic (following for example the emission of a signal from the detection sensor 15 allowing the presence of the first filling trolley 5 to be detected) or manual.

[0113] The discharge stops when the target fill level is reached. This stoppage can be automatic (for example, following the emission of a signal from the detection sensor 15) or manual (for example, following the emission of a light and / or sound signal based on the generation of a signal from the detection sensor 15). For this purpose, the valve associated with the pipe 12 in question is closed.

[0114] The first filling trolley 5 is then moved along the first rail 6.

[0115] When the positioning sensors 22, 23 detect that the first trolley filling trolley 5 is in front of one of the baskets 3 of the first row 2 associated with the first filling trolley 5 (preferably the basket 3 of the first row 2 closest to the loading station 4), the first filling trolley 5 is automatically locked in position relative to said first row 2.

[0116] The operator then requests the deployment of the chute 19 by pressing the control buttons 24. When the indicator is activated (meaning that the stops 25a, 25b are in place against the uprights), the operator stops the deployment of the chute 19. It should be noted that the stops 25a, 25b ensure that the chute 19 is correctly positioned relative to the basket 3 in question and / or that the chute 19 is correctly stabilized in position relative to the basket 3.

[0117] From there, the marbles are poured from the reservoir 16 of the first filling trolley 5 into the basket 3 via the conveying means 18. The conveying means 18 thus allows the marbles to be brought up from the reservoir 16 to the chute 19. For example, the marbles fall by gravity from the conveying means 18 into the chute 19.

[0118] The discharge stops when the target fill level is reached. This stoppage can be automatic (for example, following the emission of a signal from the fill sensor 21) or manual (for example, following the emission of a light and / or sound signal based on the generation of a signal from the fill sensor 21). For example, when the indicator is activated, the operator can then stop the discharge of the beads and command the retraction of the chute 19 so that it 19 returns to its resting position.

[0119] From this moment, the first filling trolley 5 is unlocked (manually or automatically) and is thus moved again along the first rail 6 until its positioning sensors 22, 23 detect the uprights of the adjacent basket 3 and cause the first filling trolley 5 to lock again.

[0120] The steps described above are then repeated with the new basket 3.

[0121] Thanks to this translation of the first filling carriage 5, it is possible to feed each basket 3 of the first row 2 individually one after the other until the first row 2 has all of its baskets 3 filled with marbles.

[0122] It is understood that what has been described above with reference to the first filling trolley 5 and the first row 2 is also applicable to the second filling trolley 9 and the second row 7.

[0123] The installation 1 described above proves to be more ergonomic for the operator who in particular does not need to manually fill the baskets 3, 8 with marbles.

[0124] The installation 1 thus described makes it possible to increase the rate of filling of the baskets 3, 8 and / or to increase the dimensions of the baskets 3, 8 and / or to increase the mass of balls filling each basket 3, 8 compared with prior art devices.

[0125] As a result, the installation 1 described above allows the anodic B bars to be brought more regularly into the treatment baths, which also makes it possible to increase the rate of electroplating the parts.

[0126] The installation 1 described above also makes it possible to further secure the filling of baskets 3, 8. In particular the filling of baskets 3, 8 is no longer done manually, which limits a risk of overflow of balls outside of basket 3, 8.

[0127] The installation 1 thus described also makes it possible to reduce the costs in loss of balls for the same reason as that developed in the point above.

[0128] Preferably, installation 1 includes the electroplating baths.

[0129] Installation 1 thus comprises one or more robots transporting the anodic B bars (carrying rows 2 and 7) into one of the electroplating baths. The robot, or another robot, also brings the part to be treated, suspended from a cathode bar.

[0130] Within the electroplating bath, the part to be treated is thus surrounded by a left-hand anodic bar B on one side and a right-hand anodic bar B on the other side.

[0131] From this point, the electrolytic plating of the part begins by injecting a certain amount of electric current into the anodic bar B. As the electrolytic plating of the part progresses, there is a decrease in the number of beads present in each basket 3, 8 attached to the respective anodic bar B. This number of beads consumed in each basket 3, 8 is directly related to and proportional to the amount of electric current flowing through the associated anodic bar B.

[0132] Thus, a control unit associated with the treatment bath estimates the quantity of beads consumed in each basket 3, 8 over time and triggers a signal when a minimum quantity threshold of beads present in each basket 3, 8 is reached.

[0133] Following this, a robot removes the deficient anodic bar B from the treatment bath in order to bring it back to the level of the loading station 4.

[0134] This deficient anodic bar B associated with its row of baskets 3, 8 is then recharged according to the steps described above.

[0135] Simultaneously, a robot retrieves an anodic bar B whose baskets 3, 8 are already loaded with balls. This allows the processing of a part to continue. Installation 1 thus minimizes downtime in the electroplating of a part.

[0136] It is understood that either the installation 1 has several loading stations 4 or the installation 1 is configured so that a loading station 4 allows the continuous filling of rows 2 and 7, said rows 2, 7 being stored as and when in an auxiliary storage area of ​​the installation 1.

[0137] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described but encompasses any variant falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the claims.

[0138] For example, the installation may include only one row of baskets or more than two rows.

[0139] A single trolley can be associated with more than one row of baskets. For example, a single trolley can fill two rows of baskets, the two rows of baskets being optionally arranged on either side of the loading station.

[0140] Although the movement of the trolleys is automated here, the movement of at least one of the trolleys may be manual. At least one of the trolleys may thus include at least one handle by means of which the operator may slide the trolley along the rail. Preferably, said trolley will then include two handles, each of the handles being arranged on opposite lateral sides of the trolley frame. Preferably, the handles will be arranged in the upper part of said sides. Preferably, said handles will be arranged in such a way symmetrical on the chassis along at least one axis of symmetry. This axis of symmetry is, for example, vertical. This axis of symmetry passes, for example, through the center of the trolley. Preferably, the handles will be arranged at the same height from the ground to improve the ergonomics of the trolley.

[0141] At least one of the pipelines may be equipped with at least one presence sensor to determine whether the trolley associated with the pipeline is in the first end position or not. As long as a trolley is not detected, the pipeline is not opened.

[0142] Although the pipeline here carries a sensor for detecting the fill level of the associated tank, it is possible that the trolley itself carries such a sensor. Alternatively or in addition, it is conceivable that the operator estimates the fill level of the tank himself.

[0143] Although here the chute carries a sensor to detect the fill level of the associated basket, it is possible that the basket itself carries such a sensor. Alternatively or in addition, it is conceivable that the operator estimates the fill level of the basket himself.

[0144] The trolley can only be moved if the target fill level of the basket is reached or if the trolley's reservoir is empty. The trolley's reservoir may be equipped with a sensor to detect the reservoir's fill level (and in particular to detect if the reservoir is empty).

[0145] Although here some of the steps described are carried out manually, all the steps described can be carried out automatically.

[0146] The installation may include, for example, at least one control unit controlling the movement of at least one trolley in relation to at least one row of baskets and / or controlling the conveying means so as to stop or activate it.

[0147] The balls may be made of a material other than that indicated and for example be made of a metallic material and for example be made of or based on brass, cadmium, chromium, copper, gold, iron, silver, titanium, zinc ... or any other material which may be used to form an electroplating bath (the nickel plating bath described is therefore not limiting).

Claims

Demands

1. Filling station comprising at least one upper tank (11) for holding balls, and at least one outlet pipe (12) connected to the tank (11), the filling station comprising at least one level detection sensor (21) for detecting the level of the balls discharged by the loading station (4) into a trolley (5, 9) arranged at the level of the outlet pipe (12), the pipe being provided with a valve whose opening allows the balls to be discharged into the trolley in service.

2. Filling station according to claim 1, in which the tank (11) is provided with at least one cutting element (14).

3. Filling station according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the tank (11) is totally open in its upper part or partially open in its upper part.

4. Filling station according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tank (11) is shaped into a funnel narrowing towards the ground.

5. Filling station according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pipe (12) has a bend.

6. Filling station according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising two outlet pipes (12) connected to the tank (11), the two pipes (12) extending symmetrically on either side of the tank (11) along at least one axis of symmetry.

7. Filling station according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the pipeline (12) is equipped with a valve.

8. Installation comprising at least one row of baskets and at least one filling station according to one of the higher claims.

9. Installation according to claim 8, wherein the loading station (4) is arranged at one longitudinal end of the row of baskets.

10. Installation according to any one of claims 8 to 9, wherein the row of baskets is a first row (2) of baskets, the installation comprising a second row (7) of baskets arranged in the opposite direction to the first row (2) of baskets.

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