Station for cable transport device and maintenance method for station

Abstract

To provide a station for a cable transport device that facilitates maintenance operations for facilities that drive cables and vehicles without increasing the overall size of the station.SOLUTION: A cable transport device is equipped with a vehicle and a station 1, and the station 1 comprises a moving device 5 for moving the vehicle. The moving device 5 defines a travel track for the vehicle and moves the vehicle. A platform 6 is arranged on one side of the travel track. The platform 6 allows operators to move adjacent to the moving device 5 and enables operations to be performed for the moving device 5. The moving device 5 is positioned between the platform 6 and a passage gap. An additional platform 8 is movable between a first position and a second position, with the first position not forming an obstacle to the vehicle's movement. The second position allows operations to be performed for the moving device 5.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a station of a cable conveyor and a method for maintaining the station of the cable conveyor.

Background Art

[0002] It is known to use cable conveyors to move people or goods. These cable conveyors include one or more stations and towers. The cables define a travel path for the vehicle to travel between stations. The cables are moved by a motor. One or more vehicles are attached to the cables and move along the travel path. At the station, it is a standard practice to define the travel path of one or more vehicles by a plurality of rotating parts such as tires or sheaves.

[0003] As with any conveyor, cable conveyors are periodically subject to maintenance operations, which specifically implies that the various components forming the station must be accessible to one or more operators in order to analyze and, if necessary, repair the components forming the station.

[0004] For this reason, stations are conventionally formed with an internal platform running adjacent to the travel path of the vehicle to enable observation of the cables and / or the equipment driving the vehicle of the station and performing work if necessary. To ensure the safety of the staff, the moving parts, and specifically the drive wheels and sheaves driving the cables and / or the vehicle, are protected by shrouding. The shrouding prevents the operator moving around the platform from being caught by the moving parts.

[0005] The enclosure plate is mounted so as to be movable between a first position that ensures the protection of the staff and a second position that enables work to be performed on the moving equipment and specifically on the drive wheels.

[0006] However, it has been observed that this configuration is not always very practical when the operator has to work on the drive wheels, since the running platform is positioned at a certain distance from the drive wheels. In some configurations, it is also clear that the drive wheels and the platform are separated by a beam that supports the axis of rotation of the drive wheels. As a result, during maintenance operations, the operator cannot always work under the most convenient conditions.

[0007] It is also important to limit the size of the cable conveyor system station, which tends to involve a trade-off between the size of the station and the ease of access to the various components of the station. Document EP1405779 discloses a station having an internal running platform and an external running platform that exists only in the curved part. This configuration exhibits a large overall size with two wide platforms designed to receive the operator. Outside the curved part, it is particularly complicated to access the outside of the drive wheels.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0008]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0009] One object of the present invention is to provide a station for a cable conveyor device that facilitates maintenance operations on cables and / or equipment for driving vehicles without increasing the overall size of the station.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] According to one feature of the present invention, a station of a cable conveyor device provided with at least one vehicle is proposed, the station comprising: - a moving device configured to move at least one vehicle at the station, the moving device defining a travel path of at least one vehicle at the station, the moving device comprising a plurality of moving parts capable of moving at least one vehicle at the station; - a platform located on a first side of the travel path, the platform being configured to allow an operator to pass alongside the moving device and to permit work to be carried out on the moving device; - at least one enclosure movably mounted between a protection position and an operating position, in the protection position the enclosure at least partially covers the moving device to keep the operator on the platform away from the moving device and prevent access to the moving device, and in the operating position the enclosure allows access to the moving device; and The station defines a gap designed to allow at least one vehicle clamp to pass through, the clamp attaching at least one vehicle to the cable, and the moving device is arranged between the platform and the passage gap.

[0011] The station is notably equipped with at least one additional platform that is separate from at least one enclosure plate. The at least one additional platform is mounted to be movable between a storage position and a maintenance position. The storage position is a position where the at least one additional platform does not form an obstacle to the progress of at least one vehicle on the running track. The maintenance position is a position that can support the operator to enable operations to be performed on the moving device. In that regard, in the maintenance position, the at least one additional platform is located on a second side of the running track facing that platform, and the second side is separated from the first side by the running track when observed in the vertical direction.

[0012] Advantageously, the at least one additional platform is mechanically connected to the at least one enclosure plate by a mechanical connection, and the at least one enclosure plate in the protection position prevents the movement of the at least one additional platform from the storage position to the maintenance position.

[0013] In a specific configuration, when the at least one enclosure plate is in the protection position, the at least one additional platform is in the storage position, and when the at least one enclosure plate is in the operation position, the at least one additional platform is in the maintenance position.

[0014] In an advantageous development, when the at least one additional platform is in the storage position, the at least one enclosure plate is in the protection position, and when the at least one additional platform is in the maintenance position, the at least one enclosure plate is in the operation position.

[0015] Preferably, the at least one additional platform is movable between the storage position and the maintenance position only when the at least one enclosure plate is in the operation position, and the at least one additional platform can be moved by a control device that is separate from the at least one enclosure plate.

[0016] According to one embodiment, the control device is accessible from the platform only when at least one enclosure panel is in the operating position and / or the control device is deactivated when at least one enclosure panel is in the protection position.

[0017] In an advantageous development, at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents at least one enclosure panel from being moved out of the operating position.

[0018] Preferably, at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents the movement of a cable designed to drive at least one vehicle. Alternatively, at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents the attachment of at least one vehicle to the cable if the vehicle is detachable from the cable.

[0019] In another advantageous development, in the maintenance position, at least one additional platform is arranged in a gap space designed to be occupied by a clamp, and at least one additional platform forms an obstacle to the running of at least one vehicle at the station.

[0020] Preferably, at least one enclosure panel includes a plurality of enclosure panels that are continuously installed along a cable designed to drive at least one vehicle from one end of the station to the other end, and at least one additional platform includes a plurality of additional platforms that are continuously arranged along the cable. One of the plurality of additional platforms is associated with one of the plurality of enclosure panels to form a maintenance section, and each maintenance section is mechanically independent from other maintenance sections.

[0021] Advantageously, the mobile device comprises at least one wheel configured to move the vehicle at the station, and the height of the additional platform is lower than the height of the axis of rotation of the at least one wheel.

[0022] In a particular embodiment, in the storage position, the at least one additional platform is entirely on the second side.

[0023] In an advantageous development, the station is configured to detect an additional platform outside the storage position and / or an enclosure outside the protection position, and to transmit a first signal, and comprises at least one sensor connected to the sensor for receiving the first signal, and a control circuit, the control circuit being configured to stop the mobile device or prevent the start of the mobile device upon receipt of the first signal.

[0024] Preferably, a station is provided in which the enclosure in the operating position forms a guard rail with respect to the additional platform in the maintenance position, the guard rail being separated from the mobile device by the additional platform when observed in the vertical direction.

[0025] A further object of the present invention is to provide a method of performing maintenance that is easier to perform than prior art configurations.

[0026] This result is the following steps: - providing a station according to any one of the above-described configurations; - moving the additional platform from the storage position to the maintenance position, the maintenance position supporting an operator performing work on the mobile device, and the storage position being the position where there is an additional platform outside the gap for the vehicle to pass through the station; and is likely to be achieved by a method of maintaining a station of a cable conveyor device including.

[0027] Other advantages and features will become more apparent and clear from the following description of specific embodiments and implementation manners of the present invention, which are given for illustrative purposes only and are represented in the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

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Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0029] Figures 1 to 16 show a cable conveyor and some viewpoints of Station 1 of cable conveyors with various configurations. The cable conveyor includes one or more Stations 1, for example, in some cases, two end stations having intermediate stations. Station 1 is connected by one cable 2 or at least one cable 2. The cable conveyor is equipped with one or more vehicles 3. The cable conveyor defines a travel track for the vehicle or vehicles 3. The travel track is completely or partially defined by one cable 2 or several cables 2. Preferably, when the cable conveyor has several Stations 1, the cable or cables 2 connect the Stations 1 to each other.

[0030] The cable conveyor device includes cable driving means 4 configured to drive the cable 2. The cable driving means 4 has, for example, at least one motor. The cable driving means 4 may be located within the station 1 or at another location.

[0031] The vehicle or vehicles 3 are attached to the cable 2 by one clamp 3a or at least one clamp 3a. Depending on the configuration, the vehicle 3 is fixedly attached to the cable 2 or removably attached to the cable 2. The clamp 3a is adapted accordingly.

[0032] The station 1 is equipped with a moving device 5 configured to enable the movement of at least one vehicle 3 at the station 1, for example, the movement of the vehicle 3 passing through the station 1. The moving device 5 partially defines the travel path of the vehicle 3, specifically, preferably the travel path at the station 1 passing through the station 1.

[0033] The station 1 is provided with a platform 6 so that the operator can easily move around at the station 1. The platform 6 defines a path that enables the operator to move between different parts of the station 1. The platform 6 is located on the first side surface of the moving device 5. When the travel path defines a U shape, the platform 6 is preferably located inside the travel path, that is, inside the U shape. The platform 6 faces the moving device 5, that is, is arranged at the same height or substantially the same height as the moving device 5, so that the operator can approach the components of the moving device 5 in a standing position or preferably on his knees. The platform 6 is preferably arranged further away from the components of the clamp 3a of the vehicle 3 than from the cable 2 in order to reduce the overall size of the station 1.

[0034] Platform 6 is positioned at a height such that it does not form an obstacle to the ease of travel of vehicle 3 at station 1. Generally, platform 6 does not form an obstacle to components designed to move cable 2 and, if present, components designed to bypass vehicle 3. The layout of platform 6 and the other components of station 1 is insightfully arranged to find the best trade-off between the size of station 1 and the ease of performing maintenance operations. Preferably, platform 6 is positioned above the gondola vehicle or the chair lift seat when the cable conveying device is a gondola lift or a chair lift. Platform 6 is arranged to enable the conveying device to function.

[0035] To protect the operator during the operation of the cable conveying device, the components constituting the moving device 5 cannot be easily accessed or are inaccessible by the operator moving on platform 6. Advantageously, the same applies to cable 2 and / or the part of vehicle 3 located near platform 6, such as clamp 3a.

[0036] Figures 2 and 7 show an embodiment in which the moving device 5 is made inaccessible from platform 6 by at least one enclosure plate 7. The enclosure plate 7 partially covers the moving device 5 such that at least one enclosure plate 7 is positioned between the operator located on platform 6 and the moving device 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the enclosure plate 7 is in the form of angle iron that prevents horizontal and even vertical access to the components of the moving device 5. The enclosure plate 7 may have other shapes or forms. The enclosure plate 7 is preferably made of a metallic material.

[0037] To enable maintenance operations, at least one enclosure panel 7 assumes a first position, which is a protection position preventing access to all or part of the moving device 5, and a second position, which is an operating position allowing access. Depending on the configuration, the enclosure panel or panels 7 are installed so as to be movable or deformable between the protection position and the operating position. Preferably, the enclosure panel 7 in the protection position and the operating position does not form an obstacle to the movement of the vehicle 3. In other words, the enclosure panel 7 is not located on the travel path of the vehicle 3.

[0038] The switch from the protection position to the operating position can be effected by deforming the enclosure panel 7, for example by displacing the enclosure panel 7 such as by rotating the enclosure panel 7, and in some cases by removing part of the enclosure panel 7. It is advantageous to combine at least two of these embodiments. Preferably, the switch from the protection position to the operating position results in a shutdown of the cable conveyor and / or is only possible when the device is shutdown, i.e. at least when the cable 2 is no longer running. The enclosure panel 7 may be equipped with a sensor 7' detecting that the enclosure panel 7 is no longer in the protection position and / or may be equipped with a lock 7" preventing the enclosure panel 7 from being moved from the first position when the above device is not shutdown, i.e. when it is operating.

[0039] Preferably, the moving device 5 is a moving device of a cable conveying device for a vehicle 3 having a removable clamp 3a. Moreover, the moving device 5 is configured to separately move the cable 2 and at least one vehicle 3 over a part of the travel path. The moving device 5 has a plurality of moving parts, preferably rotating parts designed to move the cable 2 and / or the vehicle 3 of the station 1. The rotating parts are preferably wheels 5a and / or pulley wheels 5b that move the cable 2 or the vehicle 3. In one embodiment, one or more of the rotating parts are mounted in an idle state. In other embodiments, one or more of the rotating parts are rotationally driven. It is also possible to have pulley wheels 5b mounted in an idle state and wheels 5a that drive the vehicle 3.

[0040] As shown in FIGS. 2 to 16, the station 1 preferably has a series of wheels 5a that drive at least one vehicle 3 along the travel path. The wheels 5a are arranged continuously with each other and define a part of the travel path.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 4 and other figures, the station 1 is equipped with one or more pulley wheels 5b that support or push the cable 2. The pulley wheels 5b participate in moving the cable 2 inside the station 1.

[0042] The moving parts are installed continuously with each other and define the travel path. For example, the moving parts are arranged continuously with each other and define a straight part. In other embodiments, the moving parts are arranged behind each other and define a curved part or other shape.

[0043] In order to facilitate the travel of at least one vehicle 3 at station 1, it is advantageous to have one or more rails 5c, for example two rails 5c that support the vehicle 3. At station 1, the vehicle 3 travels on at least one rail 5c that defines a travel track for the vehicle 3. The rail 5c supports at least a pair of wheels of the vehicle 3. The two opposing rails 5c are separated by a gap for the arm of the vehicle 3 to pass through. It is advantageous for the wheel 5a to be mounted on the beam 5d.

[0044] The platform 6 is laterally offset with respect to the moving device 5 and is arranged outside the gap space for the vehicle to pass through at station 1. The offset arrangement of the platform 6 at station 1 means that the moving device 5 is not easily accessible to the operator and that certain components of the moving device 5, specifically the wheels 5a, are difficult to handle. As a result, the operator can notice that they will be in an uncomfortable position when performing maintenance operations. The gap for the passage of the vehicle represents the minimum space occupied by the vehicle 3 traveling along the travel track at station 1. The passage gap substantially corresponds to the lateral space occupancy of the vehicle 3, and since the components form an obstacle to the travel of the vehicle 3, they define a volume in which the components cannot be installed. At the height of the moving device 5, the passage space is mainly or exclusively defined by the clamp 3a and the arm that supports the gondola vehicle or the seat of the vehicle 3.

[0045] To facilitate the operator's work, it is advantageous to provide a station 1 equipped with an additional platform 8. The additional platform 8 is a temporary platform, i.e., a platform used for one-time maintenance operations. The additional platform 8 is movable between a first position and a second position different from the first position. The first position is a storage position, i.e., a position where the additional platform 8 does not form an obstacle to the progress of at least one vehicle 3 on the running track. The second position of the additional platform 8 is a maintenance position, i.e., a position that can support the operator to enable maintenance to be performed on the moving device 5. In the second position, the additional platform 8 is arranged on the second side of the running track facing the platform 6. The second side is on the opposite side of the first side with respect to the running track when observed in the vertical direction. As shown in various figures, the platform 6 and the additional platform 8 are separated by the running track of the vehicle 3 when observed in the vertical direction.

[0046] The additional platform 8 is a platform located on the opposite side from the moving device 5 to make maintenance operations on the moving device 5 easier. The operator can move completely safely from the platform 6 to the additional platform 8, i.e., from the first side to the second side, so as to perform maintenance on the moving device 5 more efficiently in combination with other observation points. The platform 6 enables operations to be performed from one side of the moving device 5, while the additional platform 8 enables operations to be performed from the other side of the moving device 5. The additional platform 8 is preferably made of a metal material or any other material that can support the weight of the user and provide good durability.

[0047] The statement "the additional platform 8 is arranged on the second side of the running track" means that the additional platform 8 is mainly located on the second side, or not only that but is located only on the second side.

[0048] Preferably, in the storage position, the additional platform 8 is arranged only on the second side, that is, the part that can support the operator in the maintenance position is located only on the second side. This enables the operation of switching the additional platform 8 between the two positions to be performed more simply. Also, this limits the space occupancy regarding the additional platform 8.

[0049] In the second position, the additional platform 8 is horizontal or substantially horizontal to make the operator's work safer. Preferably, the additional platform 8 has a surface larger than 1 m 2 and is preferably located only on the second side.

[0050] In a particular embodiment, in the second position, the additional platform 8 is arranged within the gap for the passage of the vehicle and obstructs the gap space. This arrangement makes it easier to perform maintenance on the moving device 5. In the second position, the additional platform 8 prevents at least one vehicle 3 from passing through the station 1. Advantageously, in the second position, the additional platform 8 occupies the space designed to be occupied by the clamp 3a of the vehicle 3. In other words, when the vehicle 3 is running, the clamp 3a collides with the additional platform 8. Preferably, the station 1 has a sensor 9 configured to detect the presence of the additional platform 8 in the second position and to prevent the start of the cable conveyor when the detection occurs.

[0051] In an advantageous embodiment, when the mobile device 5 is equipped with wheels 5a for moving the vehicle 3, it is advantageous for the additional platform 8 to be positioned at a height lower than the height of the axis of rotation of the wheels 5a facing it. Even more advantageously, the additional platform 8 is at a height lower than the height of the wheels 5a facing it. Preferably, the difference between the height of the platform 6 and the lowest region of the wheels 5a is less than 50 cm in order to facilitate the removal of the wheels 5a. Such an embodiment is shown in FIGS. 14 to 16. By moving the additional platform 8 downwards, the operations to be performed by the operator are made easier. By "facing it", the wheels 5a facing the additional platform 8 in the vertical plane passing through the axis of rotation of the wheels 5a are meant. In the second position, the additional platform 8 may be at a height below the height of the platform 6 in the region facing perpendicular to the travel path as shown in FIGS. 14 and 16. Preferably, during the movement between the first position and the second position, the additional platform 8 does not reach the height of the gondola vehicle or the seat.

[0052] When the additional platform 8 is in the storage position, it is advantageous for the station 1 not to have means on the second side, i.e., means close to the mobile device 5 that can support the operator to work in a completely safe state, on the platform.

[0053] In the advantageous embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 12, the station 1 also comprises a roof panel 10. The roof panel 10 forms a roof at the top of the station 1. The roof panel 10 can define an auxiliary platform 10a that can support an operator. The auxiliary platform 10a is displaced in a first direction perpendicular to the travel direction of at least one vehicle 3 from the additional platform 8. The auxiliary platform 10a is positioned at a height lower than the height of the additional platform 8 and is displaced to place the additional platform 8 between the plurality of wheels 5a and the auxiliary platform 10a when observed in the vertical direction. The roof panel 10 is designed to form the roof of the station 1 and protect the components of the station 1 against inclement weather, specifically rain and snow.

[0054] The additional platform 8 is separate from the enclosure 7. The movement of the additional platform 8 is different from the movement of the enclosure 7. For example, both the enclosure 7 and the additional platform 8 are mounted to pivot about two different pivot axes. Alternatively, the enclosure 7 and the additional platform 8 exhibit different modes of operation selected from pivoting, sliding, and folding. The enclosure 7 may be realized by a non-changeable part between a protection position and an operation position, or the enclosure 7 may comprise a non-changeable frame 11 between the protection position and the operation position.

[0055] In the specific embodiment illustrated, the enclosure 7 is installed to pivot about the pivot axis 12 of the enclosure 7. The additional platform 8 is installed to pivot about the platform axis 13.

[0056] In certain embodiments, the enclosure plate 7 and the additional platform 8 are mechanically coupled such that movement of the enclosure plate 7 results in movement of the additional platform 8 and / or movement of the additional platform 8 results in movement of the enclosure plate 7. Preferably, movement of the enclosure plate 7 from the operating position to the protection position results in movement of the additional platform 8 from the maintenance position to the storage position. More preferably, movement of the enclosure plate 7 from the protection position to the operating position results in movement of the additional platform 8 from the storage position to the maintenance position. Even more preferably, the mechanical coupling between the enclosure plate 7 and the additional platform 8 is such that when the enclosure plate 7 is in the protection position, the additional platform 8 is outside the maintenance position, more preferably in the storage position. Advantageously, the mechanical coupling between the enclosure plate 7 and the additional platform 8 is such that when the enclosure plate 7 is in the operating position, the additional platform 8 is in the maintenance position.

[0057] The additional platform 8 may be connected to the enclosure plate 7 by a mechanical coupling, preferably a rigid mechanical coupling, such as one or more articulated arms that fix the position of the enclosure plate 7 relative to the position of the additional platform 8 and vice versa. The additional platform 8 may be connected to the enclosure plate 7 by one or more wire elements. For example, movement of the enclosure plate 7 to the protection position causes the wire element to pull the additional platform 8 away from the maintenance position. Alternatively, a gear-type coupling or any other suitable coupling may be provided between the enclosure plate 7 and the additional platform 8.

[0058] Preferably, the mechanical coupling between the enclosure plate 7 and the additional platform 8 means that a portion of the displacement force of the enclosure plate 7 is taken up by the displacement force of the additional platform 8. Preferably, movement of the enclosure plate 7 between the protection position and the operating position includes upward movement of the center of gravity of the enclosure plate 7. During this upward movement, the center of gravity of the additional platform 8 moves downward, thereby limiting the musculoskeletal stress on the operator.

[0059] In an advantageous embodiment, the enclosure plate 7 is installed to be movable independently of the additional platform 8 in order to avoid the operator having to exert effort to move the enclosure plate 7 and the additional platform 8 simultaneously. The enclosure plate 7 is moved between a protection position and an operation position without inducing movement of the additional platform 8 between a storage position and a maintenance position. The additional platform 8 is moved between a storage position and a maintenance position without inducing movement of the enclosure plate 7 between a protection position and an operation position.

[0060] In order to avoid the operator having to handle the additional platform 8 in an unsuitable posture, it is advantageous for the additional platform 8 to be moved by a control device 14, such as a knob, a crank handle, or a lever. By the operation of the control device 14, the additional platform 8 moves between a storage position and a maintenance position.

[0061] When the enclosure plate 7 is in the protection position, it is preferable for the control device 14 to be deactivated in order to prevent any movement of the additional platform 8. Alternatively or additionally, when the enclosure plate 7 is in the protection position, the control device 14 is inaccessible from the platform 6 in order to prevent any movement of the additional platform 8. For example, the control device 14 is located in the immediate vicinity of the drive means and is covered by the enclosure plate 7 when the enclosure plate 7 is in the protection position. This prevents the undesired operation of the additional platform 8 when the enclosure plate 7 is in the protection position. For example, FIG. 2 shows a first control device located between the moving device 5 and the enclosure plate 7 in the protection position. The first control device is in the form of a knob for operating a motor designed to move the additional platform 8. FIG. 2 also shows a control device 14 in the form of a crank handle. The rotation of the crank handle moves the movable platform between a storage position and a maintenance position. Preferably, the additional platform 8 is provided with a lock for blocking the additional platform 8 in the storage position when the enclosure plate 7 is in the protection position.

[0062] Preferably, the additional platform 8 in the maintenance position prevents the enclosure 7 from moving to the protection position and / or blocks the enclosure 7 in the operating position.

[0063] In an advantageous embodiment, the enclosure 7 can only be moved out of the operating position when the additional platform 8 is in the storage position.

[0064] Various mechanical linkages between the enclosure 7 and the additional platform 8 are possible in order to block the enclosure 7 in the operating position when the additional platform 8 is in the maintenance position and / or to block the additional platform 8 in the storage position when the enclosure 7 is in the protection position. Cables may be used. The additional platform 8 in the maintenance position can form a stop that prevents the movement of the enclosure 7 in the operating position. The enclosure 7 in the protection position forms a stop that prevents the movement of the additional platform 8 in the storage position.

[0065] In the illustrated embodiment, the control device 14 of the additional platform 8 has a lever, preferably a pivot lever for moving the additional platform 8. In the first lever position, the additional platform 8 is in the storage position. In the second lever position, the additional platform 8 is in the maintenance position. Preferably, the second lever position forms a stop that prevents the enclosure 7 from moving from the operating position to the protection position.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the enclosure 7 is installed so as to pivot about a pivot axis 12 that is parallel or substantially parallel to the axis of movement of the vehicle 3 in the region facing the enclosure 7 when observed in the vertical direction.

[0067] In a particular embodiment, Station 1 is equipped with a sensor 7' configured to detect whether the enclosure plate 7 is within or outside the protection position. Station 1 includes a control circuit 15 connected to the sensor 7'. The sensor 7' transmits a first signal after detection. When the sensor 7' detects that the enclosure plate 7 is outside the protection position, the sensor 7' transmits the first signal, and the control circuit 15 is configured to stop the running of the cable 2, for example, stop the running means such as a motor, and / or prevent the movement of the vehicle 3. When the device has already stopped and the enclosure plate 7 outside the protection position is detected, the start of the device is prevented. Preferably, at least one additional platform 8 in the maintenance position is designed to prevent the movement of the cable 2 that drives at least one vehicle 3, or at least one additional platform 8 in the maintenance position prevents the attachment of at least one vehicle 3 to the cable 2 when the vehicle 3 is detachable from the cable 2. Preferably, Station 1 is equipped with at least one sensor 9 configured to detect an additional platform 8 outside the storage position and transmit the first signal to the control circuit 15 connected to the sensor 9 to receive the first signal. The control circuit 15 is configured to stop the driving means or prevent the start of the driving means upon receiving the first signal.

[0068] In the advantageous embodiment shown in FIG. 14, the enclosure plate 7 moves from the protection position to the operation position, and at least a part of the enclosure plate 7 forms a barrier designed to prevent the operator from moving away from the additional platform 8 through the end opposite to the end near the moving device 5. A part of the enclosure plate 7 extends mainly in the vertical direction and forms a protection barrier. The part forming the guard rail may be the part located above the moving device 5 when the enclosure plate 7 is in the protection position. The part forming the guard rail may be the first plate 7a. The part forming the guard rail is located at a height higher than the additional platform 8.

[0069] Preferably, a part of the enclosure plate 7 is detachable. When the enclosure plate 7 is in the protection position, the detachable part is the part facing the driving means along the longitudinal axis in the direction of the platform 6, for example, the second plate 7b. This embodiment is shown in FIG. 9. Alternatively, the second plate 7b may be installed so as to slide and pivot with respect to the first plate 7a in order not to face the additional platform 8 and to define a substantial horizontal plane that inhibits access to the additional platform 8 by spanning the moving device 5.

[0070] In the specific embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the enclosure plate 7 is formed by the first plate 7a and the second plate 7b. The second plate 7b is movably assembled to the first plate 7a, for example, by a hinge. Preferably, the second plate 7b is movably assembled between the protection position and the folded-back position. In the protection position, the second plate 7b extends downward from the first plate 7a. In the folded-back position, the second plate 7b is pressed against the upper or lower surface of the first plate 7a. The first plate 7a is parallel or substantially parallel to the second plate 7b.

[0071] Advantageously, the additional platform 8 is assembled to pivot around the platform axis 13 which is installed in a stationary state with respect to the station 1, between the storage position and the maintenance position. It is advantageous that the platform axis 13 is located above the gap space for the passage of the vehicle 3.

[0072] In a preferred configuration, both ends of the additional platform 8 are each terminated by a guard rail 16 that extends vertically and is fixedly installed with respect to the moving device 5. Even more preferably, when the additional platform 8 is rotatably installed, the platform axis 13 is fixedly installed with respect to the guard rail 16. Both guard rails 16 form two obstacles at the two ends of the additional platform 8 to prevent the operator from falling. Preferably, both guard rails 16 are fixedly installed with respect to the moving device 5. It is advantageous to use the roof panel support as the guard rail 16.

[0073] In one embodiment, the moving device 5 includes a plurality of wheels 5a, and the plane separating the first side and the second side is defined by one vertical plane perpendicular to each wheel 5a that defines the running track of the vehicle. That plane passes through the wheels 5a.

[0074] In other embodiments, the moving device 5 includes a plurality of wire wheels 5b, and the plane separating the first side and the second side is defined by one vertical plane perpendicular to each wire wheel 5b that defines the running track of the vehicle by the running of the cable 2. That plane passes through the wire wheels 5b.

[0075] Preferably, the enclosure 7 has a shape different from the U-shaped configuration in order to reduce its bulk and avoid impeding access from the additional platform 8 when the additional platform 8 is moved from the storage position to the maintenance position.

[0076] In certain embodiments, several separate enclosing plates 7 are arranged behind one another in the direction of the running track between the platform 6 and the running track so as to provide protection over the opposing distance between the platform 6 and the moving device 5. Several additional platforms 8 are also used. Each additional platform 8 is associated with one of the enclosing plates 7 to form a maintenance section and enables operations to be carried out on a specific area of the drive track. Safety is ensured over the entire length of the platform 6, and maintenance operations are made easier without increasing the overall size of the station 1. Preferably, at least one enclosing plate 7 comprises a plurality of enclosing plates 7 arranged continuously along a cable 2 designed to drive at least one vehicle 3 from one end of the station to the other. At least one additional platform 8 comprises a plurality of additional platforms 8 arranged continuously along the cable 2, and one of the additional platforms 8 of the plurality of additional platforms 8 is associated with one of the enclosing plates 7 of the plurality of enclosing plates 7 to form a maintenance section, and each maintenance section is mechanically independent of the other maintenance sections.

[0077] As illustrated, the station 1 can further be equipped with a bridge that enables the moving device 5, which is the object to be straddled, to approach other parts of the station 1, for example the upper part of the station 1.

Claims

1. A station (1) of a cable conveyor system provided with at least one vehicle (3), said station (1) comprising: - A moving device (5) configured to move said at least one vehicle (3) at said station (1), said moving device (5) defining a travel path of said at least one vehicle (3) at said station (1), said moving device (5) comprising a plurality of moving parts capable of moving said at least one vehicle (3) at said station (1); - A platform (6) arranged on a first side of said travel path, said platform (6) being configured to allow an operator to pass alongside said moving device (5) and to permit work to be carried out on said moving device (5); - At least one enclosure panel (7) mounted to be movable between a protection position and an operation position, in said protection position said at least one enclosure panel (7) at least partially covering said moving device (5) to keep the operator on said platform (6) away from said moving device (5) and prevent access thereto, and in said operation position said at least one enclosure panel (7) allowing access to said moving device (5); comprising said station (1) defining a gap designed to allow passage of a clamp (3a) of said at least one vehicle (3), said clamp (3a) attaching said at least one vehicle (3) to a cable (2), and said moving device (5) being arranged between said platform (6) and said passage gap. In the station (1), the station (1) comprises at least one additional platform (8) separate from the at least one surrounding plate (7), and the at least one additional platform (8) is mounted so as to be movable between a storage position and a maintenance position by a control device (14) separate from the at least one surrounding plate (7), and the at least one additional platform (8) is characterized in that it is mounted so as to be movable between the storage position and the maintenance position only when the at least one surrounding plate (7) is in the operating position. The storage position is a position where the at least one additional platform (8) does not form an obstacle to the progress of the at least one vehicle (3) on the running track, and the maintenance position is a position where the operator can be supported to enable maintenance work on the moving device (5). In the maintenance position, the at least one additional platform (8) is arranged on a second side of the running track facing the platform (6), and the second side is separated from the first side by the running track when observed in the vertical direction. Station (1) of a cable conveyor.

2. The station according to claim 1, wherein the at least one additional platform (8) is mechanically connected to the at least one surrounding plate (7) by a mechanical connection, and the at least one surrounding plate (7) in the protection position prevents the movement of the at least one additional platform (8) from the storage position to the maintenance position.

3. The station according to claim 2, wherein when the at least one surrounding plate (7) is in the protection position, the at least one additional platform (8) is in the storage position, and when the at least one surrounding plate (7) is in the operating position, the at least one additional platform (8) is in the maintenance position.

4. When the at least one additional platform (8) is in the storage position, the at least one enclosure plate (7) is in the protection position, and when the at least one additional platform (8) is in the maintenance position, the at least one enclosure plate (7) is in the operation position, the station according to claim 3.

5. The control device (14) is available from the platform (6) only when the at least one enclosure plate (7) is in the operation position, and / or the control device (14) is deactivated when the at least one enclosure plate (7) is in the protection position, the station according to claim 1.

6. The at least one additional platform (8) in the maintenance position prevents the at least one enclosure plate (7) from being moved out of the operation position, the station according to claim 1.

7. The at least one additional platform (8) in the maintenance position prevents the movement of the cable (2) designed to drive the at least one vehicle (3), or, when the at least one vehicle (3) is detachable from the cable (2), the at least one additional platform (8) in the maintenance position prevents the at least one vehicle (3) from being attached to the cable (2), the station according to claim 1.

8. In the maintenance position, the at least one additional platform (8) is arranged in a gap space designed to be occupied by the clamp (3a), and the at least one additional platform (8) forms an obstacle to the running of the at least one vehicle (3) in the station (1), the station according to claim 1.

9. The at least one enclosure panel (7) includes a plurality of enclosure panels (7) that are successively installed along the cable (2) designed to drive the at least one vehicle (3) from one end to the other end of the station (1), the at least one additional platform (8) includes a plurality of additional platforms (8) that are successively arranged along the cable (2), and one of the plurality of additional platforms (8) is associated with one of the plurality of enclosure panels (7) to form a maintenance section, and each maintenance section is mechanically independent from other maintenance sections. The station according to claim 1.

10. The mobile device (5) includes at least one wheel (5a) configured to move the vehicle (3) at the station (1), and the height of the additional platform (8) is lower than the height of the axis of rotation of the at least one wheel (5a). The station according to claim 1.

11. In the storage position, the at least one additional platform (8) is completely on the second side surface. The station according to claim 1.

12. At least one sensor (9) configured to detect the additional platform (8) outside the storage position and / or the at least one enclosure panel (7) outside the protection position and to transmit a first signal, and a control circuit (15) connected to the sensor (9) for receiving the first signal, and the control circuit (15) is configured to stop the mobile device (5) or prevent the start of the mobile device (5) when receiving the first signal. The station according to claim 1.

13. The at least one enclosure panel (7) in the operating position forms a guard rail with respect to the additional platform (8) in the maintenance position, and the guard rail is separated from the mobile device (5) by the additional platform (8) when observed in the vertical direction. The station according to claim 1.

14. A method for maintaining a station (1) of a cable conveyor, - providing the station (1) according to claim 1; - moving the additional platform (8) from the storage position to the maintenance position, the maintenance position supporting the operator performing maintenance on the moving device (5), and the storage position being a position where the additional platform (8) is outside the clearance space for the vehicle to travel at the station (1); A method comprising.

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