Precision crossing platform and precision crossing system comprising such a platform

Abstract

A remotely piloted, rotary-wing precision crossing platform (1) comprising: at least one hook arm (3); a chassis (2) including at least one housing (9) for a battery (8) and an attachment zone (7) on the chassis (2) for attaching a tool attachment device such as a rope; at least one propulsion unit (4) mounted on the chassis (2) and intended to be powered by the battery (8); at least one remote control system (5) mounted on the chassis (2); The platform (1) being characterized in that the chassis (2) is a single piece. Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Precision crossing platform and precision crossing system comprising such a platform. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of remotely piloted aerial platforms. More specifically, the invention relates to a precision rotary-wing bridging platform particularly designed to form an attachment point for a tool. technological BACKGROUND

[0002] A remotely piloted aerial platform typically comprises a chassis, a power supply, and a propulsion system. A common propulsion method used on this type of platform is rotary-wing propulsion, which includes one or more propellers. Various pieces of equipment can be installed on the platform depending on the requirements, such as a camera.

[0003] Such a platform can be used, in particular, to facilitate access to elevated points in various fields. For this purpose, the platform can carry a so-called bridging tool, for example a rope or a ladder, to attach the tool to one or more elevated anchor points. The precision with which the anchor point is reached can be of great importance depending on the field of application, particularly for safety reasons, for example for workers, and / or for discretion.

[0004] Thus, for example, it is known to equip a remotely piloted aerial platform with a hook and to guide the platform remotely to position the hook on a target object at height. Document WO2017212125 describes an example of such a platform, on which a cable is assembled to pull equipment such as a rescue ladder, a pulley system, or a guy wire.

[0005] Document JP6673248 proposes a platform equipped with a carabiner-type hook and remotely controlled in order to set up the hook on a scaffold for example, and serve as an attachment point for workers at height.

[0006] Document US1111035 describes an aerial platform that carries a device Attachment system for a deployable ladder. The platform can be remotely controlled so that the attachment device engages with a designated anchor point. The platform then releases from the attachment device and can move away, leaving the attachment device in place.

[0007] One problem with this type of platform is its mass. Indeed, the greater the total mass to be lifted and moved, the greater the power required to operate the platform. This mass depends in particular on the chassis, the power source, and the equipment to be transported. However, the chassis is often complex. Although prior art chassis designs can take the mass problem into account, they must meet requirements, particularly regarding mechanical strength, and must be able to accommodate the other vehicle components, equipment, and tools to be transported. Therefore, reducing the chassis mass can only be achieved by taking these requirements into account.

[0008] The invention thus aims in particular to provide a solution to the aforementioned drawbacks. Summary of the invention

[0009] Thus, according to a first aspect, the invention relates to a remotely piloted, rotary-wing precision crossing platform, comprising: • at least one hook-shaped arm; • a chassis (2) comprising at least one housing for a battery and an attachment area on the chassis for attaching a tool attachment device such as a rope; • at least one propulsion unit mounted on the chassis and intended to be powered by the battery; • at least one remote control system, mounted on the chassis.

[0010] The platform is particularly distinctive in that the chassis is a single piece, meaning that it does not include elements such as screws for joining different parts of the chassis. Furthermore, the battery compartment comprises at least three uprights forming a cage for the battery, at least one of which includes an opening for the battery compartment. Finally, the platform includes a hinge for closing the opening of the battery compartment. The hinge can be in at least two positions: • a closed position, in which the hinge blocks the opening of the battery compartment, so that the battery is held in the compartment without being able to come out; • an open position, in which the hinge releases the battery compartment opening so that the battery can be removed and / or installed.

[0011] Thanks in particular to the one-piece chassis, the platform is lighter, more robust against oxidation problems, and easier to maintain. The battery housing on the chassis, in the form of a cage, allows for a removable battery while retaining the one-piece chassis.

[0012] Depending on different aspects, it is possible to foresee one and / or the other of the characteristics below taken alone or in combination.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the chassis is made of a single piece of material, that is to say, it is made from a single block of continuous material. One technique for manufacturing such a chassis is 3D printing.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the chassis comprises at least two chassis parts permanently joined together by press fitting. In particular, the battery compartment comprises at least four uprights spaced approximately at 90° intervals.

[0015] More specifically, the two chassis parts can each be in the form of a flat plate, each comprising two of said uprights. Thus, a first part comprises two so-called continuous uprights, that is to say, without an opening, and the second part comprises one so-called continuous upright and one so-called discontinuous upright, which includes the opening for the battery compartment. The chassis parts have complementary shapes, for example notches and / or slots, adapted to provide assembly by interlocking. The chassis is thus assembled simply, without screws.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the chassis may comprise at least two arms and at least two propulsion units, each propulsion unit being mounted on an arm. This arrangement notably allows for good balance of the platform in flight and precise guidance of one of the arms to a target attachment point.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the chassis may comprise four arms arranged at approximately 90° angles to each other about a central axis, each arm forming a hook. The chassis may then include an intermediate reinforcement device fixed to the chassis so as to connect the arms around the central axis, each propulsion unit being mounted on the intermediate reinforcement device. The chassis's resistance, particularly to torsional stresses, is increased. The intermediate reinforcement device also limits, at least partially, the transmission of vibrations from the propulsion units to the chassis. Equipment mounted on the platform and attached to the chassis is thus protected from vibrations.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the chassis may include a housing for a connection support and a housing for a computer system. The battery housing, the connection support housing, and the computer system housing can then be aligned with each other along a central axis of the platform. Thus, the weight exerted on the platform in flight is substantially aligned along axis A, which notably allows for good balance during flight, thus improving accuracy at the target attachment point.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the platform may include a camera-capture device attached to the chassis. Such a camera-capture device, which is for example a camera, may allow a pilot to obtain information about the platform's environment, in order to possibly correct its trajectory.

[0020] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a precision crossing system comprising at least one precision crossing platform as described above and a launching device for said platform. The launching device comprises at least one launch guidance shaft for said platform. The shaft functions as a launch ramp, allowing the platform's takeoff direction to be oriented.

[0021] The barrel can preferably be manually operated by the pilot, and finds particular application when the platform has to take off from a ship.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the launching device is portable, that is to say that the mass of the barrel is carried by the pilot to launch the platform at takeoff.

[0023] According to another embodiment, the launching device can be placed on the ground by means of a frame. The barrel is then pivotally mounted on the chassis so that the pilot simply has to orient the barrel relative to the chassis to direct the takeoff direction of the platform. Brief description of the drawings

[0024] Embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, briefly described below:

[0025] [Fig-1] represents a three-dimensional top view of a platform of precision crossing according to an embodiment.

[0026] [Fig.2] represents a side view of the platform of [Fig. 1].

[0027] [Fig.3] represents two parts of a platform chassis of [Fig.1], according to one embodiment.

[0028] [Fig.4a] and [Fig.4b] each represent a detail of the chassis parts of [Fig.3] during assembly.

[0029] [Fig.5] shows a three-dimensional top view of the assembled chassis comprising the two parts of [Fig.3].

[0030] [Fig.6] is a top view of the platform of [Fig.1].

[0031] [Fig.7] represents a precision crossing system comprising the platform of [Fig.1], in an example of implementation.

[0032] [Fig.8] represents a three-dimensional side view of a precision crossing system according to one embodiment.

[0033] [Fig.9] represents a three-dimensional side view of a precision crossing system according to another embodiment.

[0034] [Fig. 10] represents a three-dimensional rear view of the precision crossing system of [Fig.9].

[0035] In the drawings, identical references designate identical or similar objects. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Figure 1 shows a precision crossing platform 1 according to one embodiment of the invention. The platform 1 includes, in particular, a chassis 2, and at least one arm 3,

[0037] The following describes an embodiment of the platform 1, which comprises four arms 3 arranged in an X shape. However, the number of arms 3 may depend on the applications and requirements. The platform 1, comprising four arms as described below, notably allows for balancing the chassis 1 and bringing the shape of the platform 1 closer to that of a crossing hook.

[0038] The arms 3 each form a hook, that is to say, each arm 3 has a curved end 3a, adapted to grip onto an attachment point, for example, a window sill, a balcony, or a ship's ledge. The hook shape of the arms 3 can be obtained directly by shaping each arm 3 into a hook, as illustrated in the figures. Alternatively, the hook shape can be obtained by attaching and fixing hook-shaped elements onto the arms 3.

[0039] The arms 3 can be solid, or fitted with cutouts allowing to minimize the amount of material used in particular to reduce the total mass of the chassis 2, while optimizing their mechanical resistance to the expected stresses.

[0040] According to the embodiment shown in the figures and described below, the arms 3 are fixed relative to the chassis 2 and are part of the chassis 2. However, the arms 3 can be attached to the chassis 2 by any means of attachment. Thus, according to another embodiment, not shown, the arms 3 can be articulated relative to the chassis 2 by means of a pivot joint. Each arm 3 can thus assume a deployed position in which its end 3a is away from the chassis, and a folded position in which the end 4a is brought substantially against the chassis 2, or as close as possible to the chassis 2 so as to minimize the footprint of the platform 1.

[0041] According to the embodiment presented, the chassis 2 of the platform 1 has a substantially bi-symmetric shape, that is to say, it comprises two planes of symmetry which intersect substantially at 90°, along a central axis A, each plane comprising two arms 3. In each plane, the two arms 3 can be substantially symmetric with respect to the axis A. The shape of the chassis 2 thus approaches the shape of a crossing hook, optimized to form an attachment point.

[0042] The platform 1 includes at least one propulsion block 4 mounted on the chassis 2. More specifically, according to the embodiment shown in the figures, the platform 1 includes four propulsion blocks 4 fixed to the arms 3. More precisely, each propulsion block 4 is mounted on an arm 3, and they are arranged equidistant from the axis A to provide optimal stability and balance. Each propulsion block 4 typically includes a propeller and a motor. Each propulsion block 4 is intended to be powered by a battery mounted on the platform 1, as will be explained later. The attachment point on the chassis 2 of each of the propulsion blocks 4 is preferably located in the same plane substantially perpendicular to the axis A, for the purpose of balancing the platform 1. The propulsion blocks 4 may, in particular, be of the propeller type, with the propeller axis being substantially parallel to the axis A.

[0043] For the remainder of the description, for clarity, we define a so-called upper region and a so-called lower region separated from each other by an intermediate plane P, substantially perpendicular to the central axis A, and passing through the point(s) of attachment of the thruster blocks 4 on the arms 3. On the axis A, we define a so-called distal direction and a so-called proximal direction, with reference to the intermediate plane P: the distal direction is the direction which moves away from the intermediate plane P.

[0044] The platform 1 is further equipped with a control system 5, mounted on the chassis 2, for controlling the trajectory of the platform 1 in flight. Such a system may, in particular, allow an operator remaining on the ground to control the trajectory of the platform from a takeoff point to a target docking point. Such a control system 5 may include, in particular, a device for receiving commands sent from a terminal by the operator, a device for distributing power to the various equipment of the platform 1, a device for managing the power of each engine block 3, a trajectory correction device, one or more sensors, a GPS and / or a data transmission device. The control system 5 may also include a camera 6, for example, a camera, allowing the operator to visualize and identify the environment of the platform 1 to ensure guidance.The camera 6 is mounted on the chassis 2 to provide the widest possible field of view. For example, it is mounted in the upper region.

[0045] The platform 1 finally includes a hooking zone 7 on the frame 2, for attaching a tool holder, not shown in the figures. The holder may, for example, be of the swivel type. Preferably, the hooking zone 7 is located in the lower region and corresponds substantially to a distal end zone of the frame 2 in the lower region, i.e., the zone furthest from the intermediate plane P. The hooking zone 7 may be centered on the axis A. Thus, when a tool is hooked to the platform, the weight exerted is substantially aligned with axis A of the platform; the 4 propulsion blocks also work along axis A: the balance and stability of platform 1 in flight are maintained during the transport of the tool.

[0046] The platform 1 is powered by at least one battery 8 on board the platform 1, i.e. any device enabling the power supply to the equipment of the platform 1. The battery is in particular of the removable type, in order to be able to replace it easily and ensure continuity in the use of the platform 1. The chassis 2 then includes a housing 9 for such a battery 8. The housing 9 for the battery 8 is located in the lower region, again for reasons of balance and stability.

[0047] According to the invention, the chassis 2 is a single piece, meaning that it consists of a single assembly without any additional elements dedicated to creating a connection. In particular, the chassis 2 does not comprise several parts assembled by means of serial screws. It may, however, comprise several interlocking parts. However, the number of parts assembled to form the chassis is preferably as small as possible, and in particular less than or equal to two. The interlocking assembly is preferably permanent and cannot be disassembled, meaning that the parts can only be disassembled by carrying out destructive operations that damage the chassis 2, preventing subsequent reassembly in its current state. The single-piece chassis 2 thus makes it possible to obtain a particularly lightweight chassis, since it is devoid of any added connecting elements between the parts.By removing the connecting elements from the chassis, oxidation and wear problems are further reduced. Finally, maintenance is also simplified.

[0048] In order to allow the removal and installation of the removable battery 8 on the chassis 2, the housing 9 for the battery 8 has been specially designed to maintain a one-piece chassis 2.

[0049] Thus, the housing 9 for the battery 8 has a cage-like shape, comprising at least three uprights 10 to ensure that the battery 8 is retained in the housing 9. According to the embodiment shown in the figures, the housing 9 comprises four uprights 10, distributed approximately at 90° following the bi-symmetry of the chassis 2. The uprights 10 extend mainly parallel to the axis A and may meet in the attachment zone 7. Thus, the housing 9 is substantially centered on the central axis A. In order to provide access to the housing, at least one of the uprights 10, and preferably only one upright 10, includes an opening 11 for inserting and removing the battery 8 from the housing 9.

[0050] The platform 1 then includes a hinge 12 for closing the opening 11. The hinge 12 is assembled on the chassis 2 so as to take two positions: • a closed position, in which the hinge 12 blocks the opening 11 of the housing 9; • an open position, in which the hinge 12 releases the opening 11 of the housing 9.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the hinge 12 includes, for example, a pivot joint 13 about an axis perpendicular to axis A for a finger 14. The finger 14 substantially forms a post of the housing cage 9 when the hinge 12 is in the closed position. According to one embodiment, the hinge 12 includes a locking system 15 in the closed position that can alternately take two positions: • a locked position, in which the pivot joint is inactive and the hinge 12 is in the closed position, without the possibility of moving to the open position; • an unlocked position, in which the pivot link is active and the cam 2 can move from the closed position to the open position.

[0052] The locking system 15 may for example include a ball pin and / or a screw which is inserted and locked into a hole in the finger 14 coaxial with a hole in the chassis 2.

[0053] Thanks to the hinge 12 and the housing 9 for the battery 8, the battery 8 is held securely in the housing 9, while remaining removable.

[0054] The battery 8 can be inserted into a protective case 16, which is also removable from the chassis 2. The case 16 can also be fixed, for example, by means of a screw or a ball pin to the chassis 2, for example on one of the uprights 10, in order to avoid any risk of the battery 8 being released under the effect of shocks and / or vibration during the flight of the platform 1. Optionally, the case 16 can be waterproof to protect the battery 8 from water.

[0055] The chassis 2 is made of a resistant metal or metal alloy. For example, it is made of titanium or titanium alloy, or of composite materials. For example, it can be made of a "bi-composite sandwich" of carbon / ULTEM.

[0056] We will now describe two embodiments of the monobloc chassis 2.

[0057] According to a first embodiment, the chassis 2 is made of material, without any The assembly of parts is carried out beforehand. A preferred manufacturing process for chassis 2 is 3D printing using metal powder, or any other additive manufacturing technique.

[0058] According to a second embodiment, the chassis 2 comprises two parts 20, 21 manufactured as separate pieces, then permanently assembled together without the addition of any further assembly elements for the connection. For this purpose, the two parts 20, 21 comprise complementary shapes that allow them to be press-fitted together. More specifically, each Part 20, 21 is presented in the form of a flat plate cut to correspond to a part of chassis 2 and to include the complementary shapes for interlocking.

[0059] This second embodiment of the chassis 2 is particularly suited to the shape of the four-armed, bi-symmetrical chassis 2 shown in the figures. Thus, each part 20, 21 comprises two arms 3 and two uprights 10 of the housing 9 for the battery 8. One part 20, referred to as the first part, comprises two uprights 10 without an opening, and the other part 21, referred to as the second part, comprises one upright 10 with the opening 11 for the housing 9 and one upright 10 without an opening.

[0060] We will describe the two parts 20, 21 of the chassis 2, retaining the references to the axis A and to the upper and lower regions and to the distal and proximal directions which have been defined above when the chassis 2 is assembled, and which are immediately transposed to the parts 20, 21.

[0061] The first portion 20 is substantially symmetrical with respect to a median plane passing through axis A, and comprises a recessed area 22 between the two uprights. The recessed area 22 comprises two sections 22a, 22b, referred to as wide, separated by a section 22c, referred to as narrow. Thus, following axis A from a distal end, the recessed area 22 comprises successively a first widened area 22a, the narrowed area 22c, and the second widened area 22b. At a proximal end, the contour of the recessed area 22 includes, in particular, a first notch 23, approximately between the two arms 3, that is, on axis A, and in the second widened area 22c. At a distal end, the first portion 20 comprises a keyhole-shaped opening 24, situated substantially on axis A.

[0062] The second part 21 is also substantially symmetrical with respect to a median plane passing through axis A, except for the presence of the opening 11 on a post 10. On the post 10, which includes the opening 11, two free portions 10a, 10b are defined on either side of the opening 11, namely a free proximal portion 10a and a free distal portion 10b. It includes a hollowed-out area 25 leading to the opening 11. Similar to the first plate 20, the hollowed-out area 25 comprises, along axis A, successively from a distal end, a first enlarged section 23a, a narrowed section 23c, and a second enlarged section 23b. Outside the hollowed-out area 25, approximately between the two arms 3, the second part 21 includes a second notch 26. Finally, the second part 21 includes a third notch 27, located on the contour of the hollowed-out area 25 in the first enlarged section 25a, between the two uprights 10, on the axis A..

[0063] To assemble the two parts 20, 21 by interlocking, the distal free portion 10b of the second part 21 is inserted into the slot 24 until the third notch 27 is level with the slot 24. Simultaneously, the second part 20 passed into the recess 23 of the first part 20, until the second notch 26 came opposite the first notch 23. Thanks to the lock shape of the slot 24, a movement along the axis A of the first part 20 relative to the second part 21 makes it possible to obtain the lock by forcing the second notch 26 onto the first notch 23 and the third notch 27 into the slot 24. The forcing can be carried out for example with the help of a mallet-type tool.

[0064] When the two parts 20, 21 are joined, the opening 24 is partially released so as to be available for attaching a hanging device. The opening 24 then forms the hanging zone 7. The planes of symmetry of the two parts 20, 21 are approximately at 90° to each other.

[0065] Once assembled, the two parts 20, 21 form the monobloc chassis 2, without added connecting elements between the two parts 20, 21. Disassembly without damaging either of the parts 20, 21 is virtually impossible, providing adequate mechanical strength for use.

[0066] According to one embodiment, any gaps that may exist between the complementary shapes for interlocking can be filled using an epoxy resin type adhesive or any other material.

[0067] The recesses 23 and 25 of the two assembled plates 20, 21 combine to form in particular the housing 9 for the battery 8. More precisely, the first sections 23a and 25a of the recesses 23, 25 form the housing 9 for the battery.

[0068] The two parts 20, 21 may have been cut from the same solid raw plate.

[0069] The platform 1 may further include an intermediate reinforcement device 30 attached to the chassis 2, on which the propulsion blocks 4 are mounted. The reinforcement device 30 connects the arms 3 around the central axis A. As illustrated in the figures, the reinforcement device 30 has a square profile, such that one arm 3 is connected to the two arms adjacent to it around the central axis A. The reinforcement device 30 increases the rigidity of the chassis 2, i.e., its deformations under a predetermined maximum stress. In particular, the torsional rigidity of the chassis is thus increased. Furthermore, it limits or even eliminates the transmission of vibrations from the propulsion blocks 4 to the chassis 2, thereby reducing the risk of damage to equipment, particularly electronic equipment, attached to the chassis 2.

[0070] The reinforcement device 30 is preferably made of the same material as the chassis 2. It can be obtained by cutting a solid raw plate, which can be the same as that of the parts 20 and 21 of chassis 2 of the second embodiment.

[0071] Preferably, the electronic equipment onboard platform 1 is located substantially along the central axis A. Furthermore, the equipment Electronic components are preferably located primarily in the lower region, so that the majority of the electronic equipment is in the lower region. To this end, in addition to the housing 9 for the battery 8, the chassis 2 may include a housing 31 for a connection support 32 and a housing 33 for a computer system 34, both centered on the central axis A. Thus, the housings 9, 31, and 33 are aligned approximately along axis A in the lower region.

[0072] In the two-part embodiment 20, 21, the housing 31 for the connection support 32 is, for example, formed by combining the narrowed sections 23c and 25c of the hollowed-out areas 23, 25. Similarly, the housing 33 for the computer system 34 is, for example, formed by combining the second narrowed sections 23b and 23c of the hollowed-out areas 23, 25. Thus, along axis A, and starting from a distal end in the lower region, the chassis 2 successively forms the housing 9 for the battery, the housing 31 for the connector 32, and the housing 33 for the computer system 34.

[0073] The computer system 34 can be in the form of an electronic card, supporting various functions, including the electronic speed control function (acronym ESC for Electronic Speed ​​Control) of the motors of the propulsion blocks 4 and also part of the functions of the remote control system, in particular the management of the distribution of energy to the various equipment of the platform 1. The successive position of the housings 9, 31 and 33 allows the battery 8 to be connected to the connection support 32, and the computer system 34 to the connection support 32, ensuring the power supply of the computer system 34.

[0074] The connection bracket 32 ​​and the computer system 34 can also be attached to the chassis 2 using screws, for example, in order to limit their sensitivity to vibrations and to ensure they remain in position on the chassis 2 during flight of the platform 1. More specifically, the computer system 34 can be housed in a support frame 35 attached to the chassis, for example, using screws. Waterproof cases can also be provided to protect each electronic component.

[0075] Since the majority of the mass of the electronic equipment, possibly increased by the mass of the attachment device and the tool, is primarily located in the lower region along the central axis A, the weight exerted on the chassis 2 when the platform 1 is in flight is naturally directed downwards, i.e., towards the ground, and is substantially parallel to the central axis A. The propulsion blocks 4 also operate in a direction substantially parallel to the axis A, but upwards, opposite to the weight. This results in high stability of the platform 1 during flight, allowing the arms 3 to be directed onto a target attachment point with high precision.

[0076] In order to limit damage to the chassis 2 during the use of the platform, in particular damage caused by falls and / or impacts, the platform 1 may include reinforcing parts 36 attached to the chassis 2. These reinforcing parts 36 are fixed, for example by screws, to all or part of the protruding areas of the chassis 2, and in particular to a portion of the arms 3 that is directed upwards when the platform 1 is in flight and / or to a portion of the arms 3 furthest from the central axis A, which may come into contact with an obstacle. A reinforcing part 36 may also be fixed to the distal end in the lower region of the chassis 2, in order to protect the chassis 2 in the event of a fall. The reinforcing parts 36 are preferably made of shock-absorbing material.

[0077] Finally, at least one arm 3 can be equipped with a claw 37, fixed to the free end of the arm. In practice, each arm 3 includes such a claw 37. The claw 37 allows, for example, the platform 1 to be anchored at the attachment point, to improve the grip at the attachment point. Each claw 37 is mounted on a lug 37a which is fixed to the arm 3 by means of screws, allowing for easy removal and replacement of a claw 37, for example, in case of wear. The claws 37 are, for example, made of titanium and are, for example, manufactured by 3D printing.

[0078] Platform 1 is used, for example, from a launch base, which can be fixed or mobile. The launch base can serve as a pilot's control terminal for platform 1. The pilot initiates a platform startup step from the terminal. Sensor initialization can then take place. If the launch base is mobile and moving, sensor initialization compensates for this situation.

[0079] Once platform 1 and the piloting terminal are operational, the propulsion units 4 can be armed and platform 1 can take off. The trajectory of platform 1 during flight can be monitored, for example, using a terminal screen displaying images from the camera 6. The trajectory of platform 1 can be guided by the pilot via commands on the terminal, particularly when the position of the target docking point cannot be identified in advance, and / or unforeseen and / or unidentified obstacles are likely to occur during flight. Alternatively, when the target docking point can be known in advance, without the risk of unforeseen obstacles, the trajectory of platform 1 can be configured and recorded in the onboard computer system 34 of platform 1, to provide so-called automatic flight.Finally, the trajectory of platform 1 can be adjusted to follow the launch base, even if it is moving.

[0080] Once the target docking point is in sight, it is possible to dock platform 1 into position relative to the target docking point by shutting off the propulsion units. Platform 1 falls back onto the point The target attachment point remains in place thanks to the hook shape of arms 3. Thus, once platform 1 is in position, it requires no further attention, particularly in terms of finding a landing site. Platform 1 can remain in position, for example, while planned operations are carried out, and then take off again with the tool to reach its final destination.

[0081] A tool carried by the platform, for example a ladder or a rope, is then available.

[0082] The invention also relates to a precision crossing system 100, comprising a platform associated with a launching device 101 for said platform, enabling the platform's takeoff to be guided. Such a crossing system 100 is particularly suitable for enabling the takeoff of the platform 1 as described above, but not necessarily so. In particular, the platform of the crossing system 100 is independent of the monobloc chassis 2. In the examples shown below, the platform is the platform 1 described above.

[0083] The launch device 101 may include a launch guidance ramp for the platform. More specifically, the device 101 may include a launch guidance shaft 102, manually oriented by a pilot 103, into which the platform 1 is at least partially inserted. The shaft 102 has two open ends. More specifically, the lower region of the platform 1 is partially inserted, with the arms 3, when not hinged to the chassis 2, protruding from the shaft 102 at one upper end, so that a tool attached to the platform 1 attachment zone 7 can emerge from the shaft 102 at the lower end. The interior of the shaft 102 acts as a guidance ramp along which the platform 1 moves during a takeoff phase.The pilot can orient the barrel in a predetermined direction, typically that of the target attachment point. The platform 1 can then be launched in a favorable direction to reach the target attachment point. The tool can pass through the barrel to emerge from the upper end without obstruction. Such a launching system 100 finds particular application when the platform 1 must be launched from a boat 104 on the water towards a vessel 105 containing the target attachment point. Indeed, the hand-held barrel 102 can be oriented by the pilot 103 to maintain a launch direction for the platform 1 despite water movements causing the boat 104 to move.

[0084] According to an embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 8], the shaft 102 of the launching device 101 is portable, held by hand by the pilot 103, for example by means of at least one handle 106 fixed to the outside of the shaft 102. Preferably, two handles 106 may be fixed to the shaft 102, diametrically opposed with respect to the shaft 102 for a two-handed grip by the pilot 103. Optionally, the device 101 of The launch platform forms the takeoff base and may be equipped with an interface 107, including, for example, a screen and / or control buttons, fixed to the outside of the mast 102. The interface 107 is arranged so that when the pilot holds the mast 102 by the handles 106 with the upper end 108 pointing substantially upwards, it is visible and / or accessible to the pilot 103. The interface 107 includes, in particular, means for controlling the platform. The upper end 108a of the mast 102 is funnel-shaped to facilitate the insertion of the lower region of the platform (not shown in [Fig. 8]) through said upper end 108a. The tool 109, which is a rope according to the example in [Fig.8], was previously fixed to the attachment zone 7 of the platform 1. The tool 109 emerges out of the barrel 102 through a slot 110 (not visible in [Fig.8], visible in [Fig.10]) starting from the upper end 108 towards the lower end 108b, without reaching the lower end 108b. Before the platform 1 takes off, the tool 109 can partially rest on the ground in a folded position, then when the platform 1 takes off and is in flight, the tool 109 gradually deploys. The deployment of the tool 109 is thus not hindered by the launch device 101.

[0085] According to another embodiment, the launching device 101 is placed on the ground, so that the pilot 103 does not have to bear its weight when holding it by the handles 106. For example, the launching device 101 may comprise a frame resting on the ground, on which the shaft 102 is pivotally mounted to allow it to be oriented. The term "ground" should be understood here in a broad sense, as referring both to the geological ground as part of the Earth's crust, and to the floor of a fixed or mobile building, such as, in particular, the bottom of a ship.

[0086] Another embodiment of a system 100 illustrated in Figures 9 and 10 will be described. The elements common to those described with reference to [Fig. 8] bear the same reference numerals and are not described again. The device 101 comprises a frame 111 including a portion 112 forming a seat, referred to as the seat portion, and a bar 113 connecting the seat portion 112 to the shaft 102. More precisely, the seat portion 112 includes a seat block 114 on which the pilot 103 can sit, for example, astride. A cushion 115 can be placed above the seat block 114 for the comfort of the pilot 103. The seat portion 112 can include a hoop 116 so that the pilot 103, straddling the seat block 114, can hold onto the hoop 116. A cushion 117 attached to the hoop 116 can also be fitted for the comfort of the pilot 103. A terminal 118, similar to the terminal 107 described previously, can be attached to the frame 111.The launch device 101 again forms a launch base. Terminal 118, for example, is attached to bar 113 by means of a support so that terminal 118 is visible and / or accessible to the pilot on seat section 112. Bar 113 rises from seat block 112 in a substantially orthogonal direction. to the ground plane on which the seat block 114 rests. At its free end 119, the bar 113 includes a pivoting connection device 120 on the shaft 102. The pivoting connection device 120 allows at least one pivot in a direction substantially transverse to the bar 113. A handle 121 can be formed between the bar 113 and the shaft 102 so that the pilot 102 can orient the shaft 102 relative to the frame 111. The orientation of the shaft 102 relative to the frame 111 can also occur naturally under the effect of the weight of the shaft 102 and the platform 1 inserted into it. Device 101 may further include a support 122 for tool 109. The support 122 for tool 109 is fixed to the frame 111. The launching system 100 facilitates for the operator 103 the takeoff of platform 1, particularly when platform 1 has to take off from a boat.Indeed, thanks to the seat portion 112, the pilot can stabilize himself relative to the shaft 102 and orient it optimally to launch platform 1.

[0087] Such a launch system 100 also makes it possible to position the platform 1 at a distance from the ground, even before takeoff. It is then unnecessary to land it on the ground, and consequently, it is not necessary to clear a space on the ground to place the platform 1 on it.

Claims

Demands

1. A remotely piloted, rotary-wing precision crossing platform (1) comprising: • at least one hook arm (3); • a chassis (2) comprising at least one housing (9) for a battery (8) and an attachment area (7) on the chassis (2) for attaching a tool attachment device such as a rope; • at least one propulsion unit (4) mounted on the chassis (2) and intended to be powered by the battery (8); • at least one remote control system (5) mounted on the chassis (2);The platform (1) being characterized in that the chassis (2) is a single piece, in that the housing (9) for the battery (8) comprises at least three uprights (10) forming a cage for the battery (8), at least one of the uprights (10) comprising an opening (11) of the housing (9) for the battery (8), and in that the platform (1) comprises a hinge (12) for closing the opening (11) of the housing (9) for the battery (8) which can take at least two positions: • a closed position, in which the hinge (12) blocks the opening (11) of the housing (9) for the battery (8); • an open position, in which the hinge (12) releases the opening (11) of the housing (9) for the battery (8).

2. Precision crossing platform (1) according to claim 1, wherein the chassis (2) is made of material.

3. Precision crossing platform (1) according to claim 1, wherein the housing (9) for the battery (8) comprises at least four uprights (10) distributed substantially at 90°, and wherein the chassis (2) comprises at least two chassis parts (20,21) permanently assembled by force fitting together with each other.

4. Precision crossing platform (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the two chassis parts (20,21) are each in the form of a flat plate, each comprising two of said uprights (10), a first part (20) comprising two uprights (10) referred to as continuous and the second part (21) comprising one upright (10) referred to as continuous and one upright (10) referred to as discontinuous which includes the opening (11) of the housing (9) for the battery (8), the chassis parts (20,21) having complementary shapes (23, 24, 26) adapted to provide an assembly by interlocking.

5. Precision crossing platform (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the chassis (2) comprises at least two arms (3) and at least two propulsion blocks (4), each propulsion block (4) being mounted on an arm (3).

6. Precision crossing platform (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the chassis (2) comprises four arms (3) arranged substantially at 90° to each other about a central axis (A), each arm (3) forming a hook.

7. Precision crossing platform (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the chassis (2) includes an intermediate reinforcement device (30) fixed to the chassis (2) so as to connect the arms (3) around the central axis (A), each propulsion block (4) being mounted on the intermediate reinforcement device (30).

8. Precision crossing platform (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the chassis (2) includes a housing (31) for a connection support (32) and a housing (33) for a computer system (34), the housing (9) for the battery (8), the housing (31) for a connection support (32) and the housing (33) for a computer system (34) being aligned with each other along a central axis (A) of the platform (1).

9. Precision crossing platform (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a shooting device (6) fixed to the chassis (2).

10. Precision crossing system (100) comprising at least one precision crossing platform (1) according to any one of the preceding claims and a launching device (101) for said platform, the launching device (101) comprising at least one launch guidance shaft (102) for said platform (1).

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