Variable footprint container handling equipment

Abstract

A first column (155) adapted to be attached to a fifth wheel (130) of a tractor (110), a second column (175) to which a first floating ground support wheel (180) is attached so as to be movable, a third column (200) to which a second floating ground support wheel (205) is attached so as to be movable, a lift device (240, 245, 250, 255, 260, 265, 270, 275, 280, 285) for lifting a container (105), and a lift device (240, 245, 250, 255, 260, 265, 270, 275, 280, 285) for lifting a container (105), and a third column (200) connected to the first column (155) and a connecting device (220, 230, 235) configured to move at least one of the three columns relative to another of the three columns between a first position and a second position, such that the planar footprint of the device in the second position is smaller than the planar footprint of the device in the first position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a container handling device (ISO) with a variable footprint, that is, for example, a working mode in which a container can be lifted and lowered between the loading platform of a connecting truck, and a storage / transport mode in which the container cannot be lifted and lowered. In particular, since the footprint of the device in the storage / transport mode is smaller than that in the working mode, the device can be placed on the loading platform of a standard connecting truck and transported on a generally open normal road.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, in order to switch from a working mode of lifting one or at most two containers for overland transportation to a storage or transport mode with a reduced footprint compared to the working mode, for example, so that it can be transported on the loading platform of a standard connecting truck circulating on urban roads, a container handling device is known that can change the footprint intended as a set of the maximum height, maximum width, and maximum length of the device.

[0003] Such a device generally includes a variable footprint frame having, for example, telescopic vertical side members and / or upright members, and the variable footprint frame is supported on the ground by at least three, preferably four wheels, at least one of which, preferably two, is a drive wheel for enabling the frame and a container attached to the frame by a lifting device to move.

[0004] Therefore, the device is provided with a motor for applying the force required to move the device to the drive wheels and a cockpit for an operator to drive the device. The motor may be a hydraulic motor driven by a fluid pressurized by a motor pump connected to the variable footprint frame.

[0005] As one might infer, the motor and cockpit have a considerable footprint, which does not align with the need to minimize the equipment footprint in storage / transportation configurations. Furthermore, it can be inferred that such components complicate and lengthen the design / manufacturing time and constitute a significant weight burden.

[0006] The objective of the present invention is to solve the aforementioned problems of the prior art apparatus. Such objectives are achieved by the features of the invention set forth in the independent claims. Dependent claims outline preferred and / or particularly advantageous embodiments of the invention. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0007] In particular, the present invention makes available a handling device with a variable footprint for handling containers. The handling device is - A first column adapted to be mounted on the fifth wheel of the tractor, - A second column to which the first movable ground support wheel is attached in a movable manner, - The third column to which the second free-moving ground support wheel is mounted in a movable manner and - A lifting device for lifting containers and - A connecting device is configured to connect the second and third columns to the first column, and to move at least one of the three columns between a first position and a second position relative to another of the three columns, wherein the plan view footprint of the device in the second position is smaller than the plan view footprint of the handling device in the first position. It is equipped with.

[0008] This solution makes available a variable-footprint container handling device that is more compact, lighter, easily transportable, and economical compared to conventional devices, while maintaining the same performance. In particular, these advantages are brought about by the fact that the device does not require drive wheels to handle containers, as it can utilize the drive wheels of a tractor equipped with, for example, a fifth wheel (or any other equivalent connecting member) adapted to connect to the first column, which is provided to be free-moving. Therefore, since no drive wheels are required, there is no need to provide the generally hydraulic / hydrodynamic motors used by prior art devices to rotate the ground support wheels, nor is there any need for means to control and direct the drive wheels, or to drive the device, as such means are already included in the tractor. Furthermore, as will be discussed later, the device may also include a pump driven by an electric or endothermic motor to generate pressurized fluid capable of operating the connecting device. This pump does not need to provide sufficient force to also operate the drive wheels, and therefore can be smaller and less bulky than the prior art devices. Furthermore, the device does not include an on-board pump to operate the coupling device, nor is it ruled out that it may be connected to an external pump. The device can also be loaded onto a standard articulated truck bed and transported on publicly accessible roads once it is in a transport configuration that does not protrude from the bed of the articulated truck.

[0009] According to one aspect of the present invention, the connection device may be configured to move the third column between a first position where the distance from the first column to the third column is maximum and a second position where the distance between the third column and the first column is minimum, and the third column is at a distance from the first column that is less than the distance from the first column to the second column.

[0010] According to another aspect of the present invention, the connecting device is - A first cross member having a first end firmly fixed to the first column and a second end hinged to the second column with respect to a vertical axis of rotation, - A second cross member, the first end of which is firmly fixed to the second column, and the second end of which is firmly fixed to the third column, - It includes an actuator configured to rotate the third column around a rotation axis.

[0011] A further aspect of the present invention provides that the actuator may be a linear actuator comprising a first end hinged to one of a first column and a first transverse member, and a second end on the opposite side hinged to one of a third column and a second transverse member.

[0012] In yet another embodiment of the present invention, the third column and the second column may be telescopic. In this way, even if the footprint remains the same in the operational mode, it becomes possible to reduce the footprint in the transportation mode. Another aspect of the present invention, in which the first column and the first horizontal member can be made telescopic, may contribute to improving this advantage.

[0013] Furthermore, this feature allows the column to be raised so that the first and second crossbars are positioned above the tractor, thus enabling the device to be brought to the front of the tractor for improved maneuverability, and at the same time, the device can be mounted on the truck bed. According to one aspect of the present invention, the lifting device may comprise a first portion connected to a second column and a second portion connected to a third column.

[0014] According to another aspect of the present invention, the first and second parts of the lifting device are, - A pair of arms, the first and second arms of which are hinged to their respective columns around corresponding vertical hinge axes and extend along their respective longitudinal directions perpendicular to the corresponding hinge axes, - A first container gripping body, which is integrated with a first rope that is at least partially wrapped around a first wheel hinged to a first arm and actuated by a first actuator, - It may also include a second container gripper, which is integrated with a second rope that is at least partially wrapped around a second wheel hinged to a second arm and actuated by a second actuator.

[0015] The first and second spacer bars are detachably attached to the respective opposing arms to prevent the arms from rotating around the hinge axis. In this way, the device can be easily positioned in an operating configuration, and rigidity can be given to the system without increasing the overall dimensions, especially when it is in a transport configuration.

[0016] In other, less preferred embodiments not shown, a locking system configured to act directly on the hinge itself may be provided to prevent the arm from rotating relative to each hinge axis and to fix the arm in place.

[0017] In another aspect of the present invention, the apparatus may include a pump driven by a motor and operably connected to a connecting device for moving a first column between a first position and a second position, wherein the pump and motor are connected to one of the three columns or to the connecting device.

[0018] The present invention also makes available a container handling system comprising a tractor having a fifth wheel and the device according to claim 1, wherein the first column is detachably connected to the fifth wheel of the tractor. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0019] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent by referring to the figures illustrated in the attached table and reading the following description, which is provided as a non-limiting example. [Figure 1]It is a schematic plan view of a container handling system according to the present invention, including a container handling device according to the present invention, and is illustrated in the step of handling a container on land. [Figure 2] It is a schematic side view of the system of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] It is a schematic side view of the container handling system of the previous drawing, and is illustrated in the step of lifting or unloading a container with respect to the loading platform of a connecting truck. [Figure 4] It is a schematic side view of the container handling device of the previous drawing, and is illustrated in the conveying form during conveyance on the loading platform of a connecting truck. [Figure 5] It is a schematic plan view of the container handling device shown in FIG. 4. [Figure 6] It is a schematic plan view showing the step of the device passing from the operation form to the transport form. [Figure 7] It is a schematic plan view of the tractor of the system of the previous drawing. [Figure 8] It is a schematic plan view of another embodiment of the device of the previous drawing, in which the second cross member is telescopic. [Figure 9] It is a schematic plan view of the system of the previous drawing, in which the tractor is arranged laterally with respect to the device and the container.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020] Referring particularly to these figures, a system for handling a container 105 (ISO container), particularly a type of system that can move autonomously along generally open roads and highways, is generally indicated by reference numeral 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 100 can handle one container, but by appropriately sizing the system within the scope of those skilled in the art, the concept of the present invention underlying the system can be adapted to the transport of two containers stacked vertically one on top of the other on one container.

[0021] The container 105 that can be handled by the system is preferably an ISO container adapted to be gripped by the system 100 by, for example, hooks (equipped with connecting members in the form of pins and / or slots).

[0022] System 100 comprises a tractor 110, i.e., a self-propelled vehicle suitable for land transport, which comprises a chassis 115 to which at least one pair of drive and steering wheels 120, or one pair of drive wheels and one pair of steering wheels (and, in some cases, generally, at least one pair of idler wheels 125 as well) are mounted.

[0023] The illustrated tractor is a motorized vehicle, i.e., a self-propelled vehicle adapted to transport a load on the ground via idler wheels, but this does not preclude the tractor from being another self-propelled vehicle such as a forklift.

[0024] A cargo bed is defined as a frame with a flat top surface for supporting goods, such as containers, and is fitted with multiple ground support wheels, all of which are idler wheels. In practice, a tractor is required to move the cargo bed.

[0025] The tractor 110 includes a motor (not shown) for generating the force necessary for the drive wheels to move the tractor, and a transmission (if the motor is an endothermic type) for transmitting the motor's energy to the drive wheels.

[0026] The tractor 110 further comprises a steering system (not shown) for controlling the steering wheels or the steering wheels and drive wheels, a cockpit adapted to house an operator of the tractor, and a control device for operating the tractor system.

[0027] The tractor 110 is mounted to the tractor frame and is adapted to allow for the detachable coupling of the towed bed, and is equipped with a fifth wheel 130 (internationally known) that supports part of the bed from below.

[0028] Specifically, the fifth wheel 130 comprises a plate having a substantially flat top surface 135 (which is generally lubricated to reduce friction with the portion of the loading platform on which it rests), the plate having a recess 140 adapted to allow insertion of a loading platform pin.

[0029] Therefore, the fifth wheel is equipped with a locking mechanism configured to selectively hold and release a pin (of the cargo bed) inserted into a recess. The cockpit is located at the front of the tractor, while the fifth wheel 130 is located at the rear of the tractor.

[0030] System 100 further comprises a variable-footprint handling device 101 (hereinafter abbreviated as device 101) for handling containers 105. In particular, the handling performed by the device includes lifting, lowering, and maintaining the lifted state of the container from the ground. Furthermore, by connecting this device to a tractor 110, as will be described later, the device can handle the container by moving it horizontally in space while it is suspended in mid-air.

[0031] The device 101 is a variable footprint device because it can change its footprint between a work (or operation) mode in which a container (or a pair of containers) can be lifted / lowered and kept in a suspended position, and a storage or transport mode in which the maximum overall footprint of the device 101 is reduced compared to the work mode.

[0032] Variable footprint is defined as the possibility of changing at least one of the dimensions in the space between height, width, and length. Width and length are perpendicular to each other and lie on the horizontal plane, while height is measured vertically. Furthermore, in this discussion, width is used with respect to a measurement direction perpendicular to the straight-ahead direction of the tractor when the device 101 is connected to the tractor and aligned with the tractor (as shown in the figure), and length is used with respect to a measurement direction parallel to the straight-ahead direction of the tractor and perpendicular to the length.

[0033] The maximum overall footprint can be considered as the volume of the smallest parallelepiped that completely encloses device 101. The device 101 comprises a variable footprint frame, which can also be defined as having a "variable shape," that is detachably connected to the tractor 110, i.e., to the fifth wheel 130 of the tractor, and adapted to be moved by the tractor.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the frame can vary its footprint in all three indicated directions (height, width, and length). However, this does not preclude less preferred embodiments not illustrated in which the frame can vary its footprint only in the width direction, or in the width and length directions, but not in the height direction.

[0035] Due to variations in the frame footprint, the device 101 can operate between an operational mode in which it can handle containers, i.e., lift, lower, and hold containers in a suspended position, and a transport or storage mode in which the device 101 is adapted to be transported on the bed of an articulated truck, i.e., on a bed attached to a tractor. In the transport mode, the device 101 is not configured to handle containers.

[0036] In operation mode, the footprint of the frame (and device 101) is maximized, while in transport or storage mode, it is minimized. The frame of the variable footprint extends vertically, i.e., primarily along the vertical axis, and includes a first column 155 adapted to be detachably connected to the tractor. In particular, the device 101 is connected to the tractor only via the first column.

[0037] The first column 155 is adapted, i.e., mounted, to be loosely attached to the fifth wheel 130 of the tractor so that the first column can rotate relative to the tractor about a vertical axis of rotation R1. Alternatively, the column may have a lower section that can be firmly fixed to the fifth wheel 130, i.e., a lower section that can be firmly fixed without any remaining degrees of freedom, and the remaining portion of the first column is rotatably mounted relative to the lower section about a vertical axis of rotation R1.

[0038] For connection to the fifth wheel, the first column is equipped with a coupling device located at the lower end 156 of the first column. Such coupling devices may be, for example, those known to those skilled in the art for securing a loading platform to the fifth wheel of a tractor, and may include a pin (not shown) adapted to be inserted into a recess 140 of the fifth wheel 130. As an alternative to the fifth wheel, it is clear that the tractor cannot rule out the provision of a system for in-situ connection of the first column. In such a case, the tractor may include, for example, a vertical pin into which the lower part of the first column is fitted to realize a funnel-shaped pair having a vertical rotation axis R1.

[0039] In the illustrated embodiment, the first column is telescopic, and its longitudinal dimension can be changed along the vertical direction. Therefore, the first column comprises a lower part 160 that constitutes the lower part of the first column, and an upper part 165 that is movable vertically relative to the lower part by means of a linear actuator 170 or the like.

[0040] Next, the frame of the variable footprint includes a second column 175 (extending vertically, i.e., longitudinally along the vertical axis), to which a first idler ground support wheel 180 is loosely attached. In practice, the second column rests on the ground (only) by the first idler wheel connected to the lower end of the second column.

[0041] The first idler wheel 180 is rotatably mounted on the second column 175 at least around a horizontal rotation axis. It is not excluded that the first idler wheel 180 may also be rotatably mounted on the second column 175, for example, around a vertical rotation axis coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the column.

[0042] The first idler wheel 180 may be aligned vertically with the second column, at least partially. Preferably, the second column completely overlaps with the first idler wheel in a plan view. In the illustrated embodiment, in order to further reduce the footprint, the second column includes a cavity 185 in which the first idler wheel 180 is at least partially housed.

[0043] For example, to enable further reduction of the footprint and to allow the wheels to overcome obstacles when protruding, the second column may also be equipped with a drive mechanism configured to selectively protrude the first idler wheel from the cavity (so that at least one-third of the wheel protrudes) or retract it into the cavity (so that less than one-quarter of the wheel protrudes). This does not preclude the possibility that the second column may be equipped with multiple ground support wheels that are hinged to the second column in a manner that allows for free movement.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the second column is telescopic and its longitudinal dimension can be changed along the vertical direction. In particular, the second column may comprise a lower part 190 to which the first idler wheel 180 is directly attached in the manner described above, and an upper part 195 that is movable relative to the lower part along the vertical axis. For example, the operation of the second part may be performed by the illustrated linear actuator 196. The second column 175 is positioned at a distance from the first column that is a non-zero amount of space.

[0045] The variable footprint frame also includes a third column 200 (extending vertically, i.e., longitudinally along the vertical axis), to which a second idler ground support wheel 205 is loosely mounted. In practice, the third column rests on the ground (only) by the second idler wheel connected to the lower end of the third column.

[0046] The second idler wheel 205 is rotatably connected to the third column 200 at least around a horizontal rotation axis. This does not preclude the second idler wheel 205 from being rotatably mounted to the third column 200, for example, around a vertical rotation axis coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the column. The second idler wheel 205 may be aligned vertically with the third column, at least partially. Preferably, the third column completely overlaps with the second idler wheel in a plan view. In the illustrated embodiment, in order to further reduce the footprint, the third column includes a cavity 210 in which the second idler wheel 205 is at least partially housed.

[0047] For example, to enable further reduction of the footprint and to allow the wheels to overcome obstacles when protruding, the third column may also be equipped with a drive mechanism configured to protrude the second idler wheel from the cavity (so that at least one-third of the wheel protrudes) or retract it into the cavity (so that less than one-quarter of the wheel protrudes). This does not preclude the third column from having multiple ground support wheels that are hinged to the third column in a manner that allows them to move freely.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the third column is telescopic and its longitudinal dimension can be changed along the vertical direction. In particular, the third column may comprise a lower part 200a to which the second idler wheel 205 is directly attached in the manner described above, and an upper part 200b that is movable relative to the lower part along the vertical axis. For example, the operation of the second part may be performed by the illustrated linear actuator 215. The third column 200 is positioned at a distance of a non-zero amount from both the first column 155 and the second column 175.

[0049] Preferably, the frame of the variable footprint does not have any support columns other than the first, second, and third columns. In other words, the weight of the device 101 and its associated container is discharged towards the ground only through the first, second, and third columns.

[0050] Furthermore, when in use, the device 101 makes contact with the ground only via the first idler wheel, the second idler wheel, and the tractor when the device 101 is connected to the tractor (alternatively, the device 101 may be momentarily supported by a stand and / or adjustable extension support legs).

[0051] The variable footprint frame includes a connecting device that connects the second column 175 and the third column 200 to the first column 155, and is configured, for example, by actuators and links and / or joints, to move at least one of the three columns relative to the other three columns between a first position where the footprint of the device 101, i.e., the variable footprint frame, is largest in plan view (at this position, the device 101 has a predetermined footprint in plan view) and a second position where the footprint of the device 101, i.e., the variable footprint frame, in plan view is smaller than the footprint of the device 101 in plan view at the first position.

[0052] Note that the footprint in plan view is the width and length of the frame in plan view. Alternatively, this footprint in plan view can be understood as the area of ​​a triangle lying on the horizontal plane, with its vertices located at each column.

[0053] The first position of the connection device is a position that must be assumed in order to realize an operating configuration of the device 101 that can transport a container, and the second position is a position that must be assumed in order to realize a transport configuration of the device 101.

[0054] In the first position, the container, which is lifted, suspended, or maintained in a suspended state by the device 101, is (directly) interposed between the first column, the second column, and the third column. The direction in which the width of the device 101 is measured can also be defined as the direction of the horizontal distance between the second column 175 and the third column 200 when the connecting device is in the first position.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting device is configured to move the third column 200 (relative to the second column 175 and the first column 155) between a first position where the distance (horizontal and minimum) of the third column 200 from the first column 155 is maximum, and a second position where the distance (horizontal and minimum) between the third column and the first column is minimum, and the third column is at a distance from the first column that is shorter than the distance from the first column to the second column. For example, in this second position, the third column is interposed between the first and second columns.

[0056] When moving from one position to another, only the third column moves relative to two other columns that maintain a predetermined distance from each other. In practice, the connecting device is configured to move the third column and the first column closer to or further away from each other, for example, by rotating at least one of them around a vertical axis of rotation.

[0057] At the first position, the distance from the first column to the third column is approximately equal to the distance from the first column to the second column; that is, the distance from the first column to the third column is set to within ±20% of the distance from the first column to the second column. In the illustrated embodiment, at the first position, the distance from the first column to the third column is equal to the distance from the first column to the second column.

[0058] Furthermore, in the first position, the second and third columns are aligned along a direction perpendicular to the vertical centerline plane of the device 101 passing through the first column (this centerline plane is detectable when the connecting device is in the first position). This centerline plane also divides the container into two when it is handled by the device 101.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment of the illustrated connecting device, the connecting device comprises, for example, a first horizontal member 220 having a linear shape, the first horizontal member comprising a first end 220a that is firmly fixed (having no remaining degrees of freedom) to the top (upper) of a first column 155, and a second end 220b on the opposite side that is hinged to the top (upper) of a second column 175, around a vertical axis of rotation R2. For example, the first horizontal member is positioned horizontally.

[0060] Preferably, the first horizontal member 220 is extendable and retractable so that the horizontal distance between its first end 220a and second end 220b can be changed. This makes it possible to change the horizontal distance between the first column 155 and the second column 175, thereby improving the compactness of the frame with a variable footprint.

[0061] Thus, the first horizontal member may comprise a first portion having a first end 220a and a second portion having a second end 220b that is movable relative to the first portion along a linear axis by a linear actuator 225. The first horizontal member is directly connected only to the first and second columns, which are provided only at the aforementioned ends.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting device also comprises a second cross member 230 having a first end 230a that is firmly fixed (without any remaining degrees of freedom) to the second column 175, i.e., to the top (upper) of the second column 175, and a second end 230b on the opposite side that is firmly fixed (without any remaining degrees of freedom) to the third column 200, i.e., to the top (upper) of the third column 200. The second horizontal member is directly connected only to the third column and the second column, which are provided only at the aforementioned ends. For example, the second horizontal member is positioned horizontally.

[0063] In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 7, the second horizontal member is preferably not expandable or contractible. Alternatively, in the embodiment of the apparatus shown in Figure 8, the second horizontal member is extendable and retractable so that the horizontal distance between its first and second ends can be changed. In such a case, as shown in Figure 8, the second horizontal member also includes a linear actuator 231 configured to change the aforementioned horizontal distance between its first and second ends.

[0064] The first and second horizontal members are positioned at a vertical height such that they are located entirely above the container being handled, without interfering with the container itself. The connecting device further comprises an actuator 235 configured to rotate the third column relative to the rotation axis R2 and the first transverse member, that is, an actuator 235 configured to rotate the second transverse member 230, to which the third column is firmly fixed, relative to the rotation axis R2 and the first transverse member.

[0065] The rotation of the third column around the rotation axis R2 by the actuator 235 allows the connector to be operated between the first and second positions of the connector. When the rotation of the third column around the rotation axis R2 is combined with the rotation of the first column around its rotation axis R1, it further enables the tractor 110 to be positioned laterally to the device 101 and thus alongside the container 105, as shown in Figure 9.

[0066] Therefore, by positioning the second transverse member perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the load, aligning the tractor planarly with the load, and moving it forward or backward along a trajectory parallel to the longitudinal axis of the load, this system can be used to lift and handle loads longer than an ISO container, such as loads even longer than the system itself.

[0067] For example, the actuator 235 is a linear actuator comprising a first end 235a hinged to one of the first column 155 and the first cross member 220, and a second end 235b on the opposite side hinged to one of the third column 200 and the second cross member 230.

[0068] The actuator comprises a first portion provided at a first end and a second portion provided at a second end, which is movable relative to the first portion along a linear axis. Such a linear axis is preferably on a horizontal axis. Specifically, in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the first end 235a is hinged to the first cross member, and the second end 235b is hinged to the second cross member. The actuator is preferably of the hydraulic / pneumatic type. For example, the first and second horizontal members may be straight.

[0069] In the second position, the first and second transverse members have longitudinal axes that intersect each other, and in the second position, the first and second transverse members have longitudinal axes that are substantially parallel to each other.

[0070] In an alternative, less preferred embodiment of the connecting device, the third column may be directly connected to the first column with an expandable crossbar, and the second column may be connected to the first column with a rigid crossbar that is not of variable length.

[0071] The frame of the variable footprint is rigid; that is, it does not deform under normal load conditions. In other words, the columns and cross members of the variable footprint frame are rigid.

[0072] Connected to the frame of the variable footprint is a lifting device configured to lift the container (relative to the ground, i.e., relative to the vertical height of the wheels), that is, to lift, hold, and lower the container.

[0073] The lifting device comprises a first part directly connected to the second column and a second part directly connected to the third column. Each section includes a connecting member or lower support for the container that is operable at least vertically to lift, hold in the lifted position, and lower the container.

[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, both the first and second parts of the lifting device each comprise a pair of arms, the first arm 240 and the second arm 245, which are hinged to their respective columns, preferably so as to be free to move, around corresponding vertical hinge axes (different for the two arms), and extend horizontally along their respective longitudinal directions across the corresponding hinge axes, for example, away from their respective columns.

[0075] Each part of the lifting device comprises a first gripping body 250 of the container, i.e., a first connecting body, and a first operating device for the first gripping body configured to move it vertically. In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuator includes a first rope 255 that is at least partially wrapped around a first (roaming) wheel 260 hinged to a first arm 240. The first rope, attached to the first gripping body, is operated by a first actuator 265, for example, a linear actuator. The first gripping body may be, for example, a hook.

[0076] Each part of the lifting device also comprises a second gripping body 270 of the container, i.e., a second connecting body, and a second actuator for the second gripping body configured to move it vertically. In the illustrated embodiment, the second actuator includes a second rope 275 that is at least partially wrapped around a second (floating) wheel 280 hinged to a second arm 245. The second rope, attached to the second gripping body, is operated by a second actuator 285, for example, a linear actuator.

[0077] In other embodiments, the actuator may comprise a linear actuator having one end attached (e.g., rigidly or hinged) to each arm and the opposite end connected (e.g., rigidly or hinged) to each gripping body. In such embodiments, the gripping body may be a fork or hook of the type used in a forklift.

[0078] In embodiments not shown, the lifting device may include at least two pairs of forks, one pair of which is firmly attached to the top of a second column and the other pair of which is firmly attached to the top of a third column. In this way, the retractable columns allow the container to be lifted by pushing it from below after the forks have been inserted under it.

[0079] The illustrated lifting device includes a first spacer bar 290 and a second spacer bar 295, which are removably attached to each of the opposing arms of the lifting device to prevent the arms from rotating around the hinge axis.

[0080] In particular, the first spacer bar has a first end connected to a first arm of the first part of the lifting device and an opposite second end connected to a second arm of the second part of the lifting device, and is directly interposed between them.

[0081] Spacer bars are highly rigid, meaning they do not deform under normal working loads. In particular, these bars function only in tension and compression, under the forces applied by the arms interposed between them.

[0082] In addition to the first and second spacer bars, the lifting device may also include a third spacer bar 300 and a fourth spacer bar 305 extending toward an arm of the portion of the lifting device that is attached from one of the second and third columns toward the opposite column.

[0083] The device 101 may include a pump (not shown) driven by a motor (not shown) and operably connected to the coupling device in order to move the first column between a first position and a second position, that is, to supply power to the actuator of the coupling device.

[0084] As one might infer, such pumps can also be used to power other actuators that may exist when certain components, such as columns, extend or retract.

[0085] These pumps and motors only need to power the drive unit of the variable footprint frame and do not need to drive the wheels that move the frame, resulting in a smaller size than conventional devices. The pump and motor are connected to one of the three columns or to a connecting device.

[0086] The operating mode of the device 101, i.e., the variable footprint frame, occurs when the connecting device is in the first position and all the telescopic columns are in one of their maximum longitudinal extension positions.

[0087] In the illustrated embodiment, the operating configuration occurs when the connecting device is in the first position, all the telescopic columns are in their maximum longitudinal extension position, the idler wheel protrudes at least one-third of the way out of the cavity, and the spacer bar is interposed between the arms of the lifting device.

[0088] The operating configuration coincides with the configuration when the connecting device is in the first position, but only in a less desirable embodiment in which the column is not telescopic, the wheels are not located within a cavity in the column but are movable relative to the cavity, and the lifting device comprises a fork that moves vertically along the column instead of a hinged arm.

[0089] The transport mode of the device 101, i.e., the frame of the variable footprint, occurs when the connecting device is in the second position and all the telescopic columns are in one of their minimum longitudinal extension positions.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the transport configuration occurs when the connecting device is in the second position, all telescopic columns are in their minimum longitudinal extension position, the idler wheels protrude less than a quarter of the way out of the cavity, the first transverse member is in its minimum longitudinal extension position, and no spacer bars are interposed between the arms of the lift device.

[0091] The transport configuration coincides with the configuration when the connecting device is in the second position, but only in a less desirable embodiment, where the column is not telescopic, the first transverse member is not telescopic, the wheels are not located in a cavity made in the column but are movable relative to the cavity, and the lifting device comprises forks that are movable vertically along the column.

[0092] The illustrated device 101 can be coupled to any tractor, i.e., a tractor of an articulated truck, as long as it has a fifth wheel. Alternatively, it is possible to envision the use of a special tractor equipped with a fifth wheel (or a special tractor equipped with a device for fixing the device, which has a pin or circular seat that allows the device 101 to be detachably coupled to the special tractor and to form a funnel-shaped pair with the first column of the device 101 and having a vertical rotation axis). For example, such a tractor may be a fitted forklift or other self-propelled industrial vehicle.

[0093] The system may include a stand 211 having a pair of horizontal, extendable upper crossbars arranged side-by-side and parallel to each other, supporting a first and second crossbar and following them in movement along the path between the second and first positions, thereby extending and retracting while the connecting device is operated between the first and second positions, in order to facilitate loading and transporting the device on a cargo bed when the device is in transport configuration.

[0094] The operation of the system according to the present invention is as follows: The device 101 is transported in a configuration where it is positioned above a loading platform pulled by a tractor to a location where it is intended to be used for handling containers (see Figures 4 and 5).

[0095] Upon arrival at the destination, the device 101 is brought from transport to an operating configuration that supports the device during this transition, for example, by placing it on a special stand such as stand 211, or by lifting it with a forklift or crane.

[0096] First, in the transition from transport mode to operating mode, the drive unit of the connecting device that rotates the second cross member 230 around the vertical rotation axis R2 is operated to move it from the second position to the first position. After that, the first column 155 can already be connected to the fifth wheel 130 of the tractor. If the column is telescopic as shown in the diagram, the column and, in some cases, the first horizontal member can also be extended.

[0097] Furthermore, as shown in the illustration, the lifting device is comprised of arms 240 and 245, which, from their positions as seen in the plan view in Figure 5, are rotated around their respective hinge axes so that, in each pair of arms, they protrude together in opposite directions away from the respective columns to which they are hinged. These directions are substantially parallel to the forward direction of the system when the device 101 is coupled to the tractor, i.e., to the central plane when the device 101 is in the first position. In addition, after the arms are positioned, they are locked in place by spacer bars 290, 295, 300, and 305 fixed to the arms.

[0098] When the device 101 is in operation and connected to the tractor, the device 101 is moved by the tractor to the container to be lifted and positioned so that the container is between the first column, the second column, and the third column.

[0099] In the illustrated embodiment, the container is also interposed in plan view between the arm of the first part of the lifting device and the arm of the second part of the lifting device. At this point, the container is gripped by the gripping body of the lifting device and lifted so as not to come into contact with the ground or the platform on which the container is placed.

[0100] While the device 101 holds the container in a raised position, the tractor moves the device 101 to the location where the container is to be lowered. For example, the extendable first column allows the first crossbar to be positioned higher than a portion of the top of the tractor, so that the tractor can be oriented such that the second and third columns, and consequently the lifting device, are in front of the cockpit (as shown in Figure 3).

[0101] Once the device 101 has completed its work, it can be returned to its transport configuration and stored at the work site, or transported to another location (work site or storage site). In the illustrated apparatus 101, the first step is to remove the spacer bar, and thereafter, or if apparatus 101 is not the illustrated apparatus, the drive unit of the connector is activated and moved from the first position to the second position. As shown in the illustration, if the column and the first horizontal member are expandable and contractible, they are also positioned to minimize their extension in the longitudinal direction.

[0102] The arms must be rotated around their respective hinge axes, as shown in Figure 6. That is, when the connector is in the second position, they must be rotated so that there are two arms aligned laterally with respect to the direction from the second column to the first column (and therefore within a pair of arms). In this configuration, the arms are free to move, so it is desirable to secure them to the rest of the frame of the variable footprint with ropes.

[0103] The present invention, as conceived in this manner, is subject to several modifications and variations, all of which fall within the scope of the concept of the present invention. Furthermore, all the details can be replaced with other technically equivalent elements. In practice, the materials used, incidental shapes, and sizes may be any as required, provided they do not deviate from the scope of protection of the following claims.

Claims

1. A variable footprint handling device (101) for handling a container (105), - A first column (155) adapted to be mounted on the fifth wheel (130) of the tractor (110), - The first movable ground support wheel (180) is movably connected to the second column (175), - The third column (200) to which the second movable ground support wheel (205) is movably connected, - Lifting devices (240, 245, 250, 255, 260, 265, 270, 275, 280, 285) for lifting the container (105), - The second column (175) and the third column (200) are connected to the first column (155), and the connection devices (220, 230, 235) are configured to move at least one of the three columns between a first position and a second position relative to another of the three columns, wherein the plan view footprint of the handling device at the second position is smaller than the plan view footprint of the handling device at the first position. The connecting device (220, 230, 235) is configured to move the third column (200) between a first position where the distance of the third column (200) from the first column (155) is maximum, and a second position where the distance between the third column (200) and the first column (155) is minimum, and the third column (200) is at a distance from the first column (155) that is less than the distance of the second column (175) from the first column (155).

2. The aforementioned connecting device - A first cross member (220) having a first end (220a) firmly fixed to the first column (155) and a second end (220b) hinged to the second column (175) around a vertical rotation axis (R2), - The second cross member (230) has its first end (230a) firmly fixed to the second column (175) and its second end (230b) firmly fixed to the third column (200), - The apparatus (101) according to claim 1, further comprising an actuator (235) configured to rotate the third column (200) around the vertical rotation axis (R2).

3. The apparatus (101) according to claim 2, wherein the actuator (235) is a linear actuator comprising a first end (235a) hinged to one of the first column (155) and the first transverse member (220), and a second end (235b) on the opposite side hinged to one of the third column (200) and the second transverse member (230).

4. The apparatus (101) according to claim 1, wherein the third column (200) and the second column (175) are retractable.

5. The apparatus (101) according to claim 1, wherein the first column (155) and the first horizontal member (220) are telescopic.

6. The apparatus (101) according to claim 1, wherein the lifting device comprises a first portion connected to the second column (175) and a second portion connected to the third column (200).

7. Both the first and second parts of the lifting device are, - A pair of arms, the first arm (240) and the second arm (245), hinged to their respective columns around corresponding vertical hinge axes, and extending along their respective longitudinal directions perpendicular to the corresponding hinge axes, - A first container gripper (250) is integrated with a first rope (255) which is at least partially wrapped around a first wheel (260) hinged to the first arm (240) and operated by a first actuator (265), - The apparatus (101) according to claim 6, comprising a second container gripper (270) which is at least partially wrapped around a second wheel (280) hinged to the second arm (245) and integrated with a second rope (275) which is actuated by a second actuator (285).

8. The apparatus (101) according to claim 7, comprising a first spacer bar (290) and a second spacer bar (295) that are detachably coupled to each of the opposing arms (240, 245) to prevent the arm from rotating around the hinge axis.

9. The apparatus (101) according to claim 1, comprising a pump driven by a motor and operably connected to the connecting device for moving the first column (155) between the first and second positions, wherein the pump and the motor are connected to at least one of the first column (155), the second column (175), or the third column (200), or to the connecting device.

10. A system (100) for handling a container (105), comprising a tractor (110) having a fifth wheel (130) and the device described in claim 1, wherein the first column (155) is detachably connected to the fifth wheel (130) of the tractor (110).

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