Telescopic handler

Abstract

A telescopic handler, which comprises a vehicle (2) which can move over ground (A) and a telescopic boom (5), supported by the vehicle (2) with the possibility of rotation with respect to a horizontal axis (B); the boom (5) comprises a plurality of segments (6a, 6b, 6c) with the possibility of telescopic movement and is adapted, with an end segment (6c), for the support of a work accessory (7); the handler comprises an electronic unit (10) provided with a module for choosing between two distinct working modes, which are associated with respective load charts (11); in the first mode, the boom (5) is free to rotate with respect to the horizontal axis (B) and the telescopic movement of the segments (6a, 6b, 6c) is permitted; in the second mode, the boom (5) is free to rotate with respect to the horizontal axis (B) and the telescopic movement of the segments (6a, 6b, 6c) is inhibited.

Description

[0001] TELESCOPIC HANDLER

[0002] The present invention relates to a telescopic handler.

[0003] As is known, telescopic handlers form part of the larger family of self-propelled work vehicles, and within that family they represent a solution that nowadays is widespread, which is availed of to move cumbersome goods or equipment and / or to execute interventions, repairs or maintenance at considerable heights or in any case at points that are difficult to access from the ground.

[0004] In the configuration that is nowadays broadly consolidated, the telescopic handler comprises a vehicle (or truck) provided with wheels or crawler tracks, which make it possible to move over ground, so as to be able to travel by road and / or on the terrain of a construction site, of a building, of a field, or indeed anywhere an intervention is required.

[0005] The handler further comprises a telescopic boom, which can move with respect to the vehicle about a horizontal rotation axis, which passes substantially through a first end thereof, and which at the opposite end can be equipped with an accessory (optionally interchangeable) chosen as a function of the intervention that the same handler is intended to perform.

[0006] Typically, the vehicle is also provided with a cab, which can accommodate the operator responsible for controlling the handler and its operation.

[0007] In order to increase the range of action, some implementation solutions also have the boom and, if present, the cab mounted on a structure that is able to rotate, which is connected to the vehicle through a rotary coupling about a vertical axis. In this case, the telescopic handler is defined "rotary" and evidently makes it possible to appreciably increase the workspace (the set of points that can be reached by the boom and by its accessory) when the vehicle is stationary and / or stabilized.

[0008] The performance of conventional handlers, and also the versatility they provide, are certainly well-appreciated factors and are the foundation of the success they have encountered on the market, but it has been found that, especially in some specific applications, such machines offer limited performance which in fact discourages their use, so much so that the use of other works vehicles is preferred.

[0009] A suchlike circumstance is for example when the accessory required is a winch (or a similar apparatus): the stresses to which the handler and, in particular, the boom are subjected mean that, in the various configurations of the boom, the respective load chart gives limited values for the maximum acceptable load, so much so that it is preferable to use cranes or other machines.

[0010] The aim of the present invention is to solve the above mentioned problems, by providing a handler that makes it possible to work with a winch while ensuring high load capacities.

[0011] Within this aim, an object of the invention is to provide a handler that is versatile, which makes it possible to work effectively with accessories of various types and with load charts that ensure the possibility of operating with heavy loads.

[0012] Another object of the invention is to provide a handler that can be operated like a crane, while still ensuring high performance levels.

[0013] Another object of the invention is to provide a handler that ensures a high reliability of operation.

[0014] Another object of the invention is to provide a handler that adopts an alternative technical and structural architecture to that of conventional handlers.

[0015] Another object of the invention is to provide a handler that can be easily implemented using elements and materials that are readily available on the market.

[0016] Another object of the invention is to provide a handler at low cost and which is safely applied.

[0017] This aim and these and other objects which will become better apparent hereinafter are achieved by a telescopic handler according to claim 1.

[0018] Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will become better apparent from the description of a preferred, but not exclusive, embodiment of the handler according to the invention, which is illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0019] Figures 1 to 3 are side views of the handler according to the invention, with a first possible accessory mounted, showing a possible sequence of its use,

[0020] Figure 4 is a side view of the telescopic handler according to the invention, with a second possible accessory mounted, and shows two different positions of the boom;

[0021] Figures 5 and 6 are two different perspective views of the telescopic boom of the handler according to the invention;

[0022] Figure 7 is a side view of the boom of Figures 5 and 6, and is cross- sectional, taken along a longitudinal plane;

[0023] Figures 8 and 9 are two possible load charts associated respectively with the first and with the second working mode of the handler;

[0024] Figure 10 is a block diagram of the handler according to the invention.

[0025] With particular reference to the figures, the reference numeral 1 generally designates a telescopic handler, which comprises first of all a vehicle (or truck) 2, which can move over ground A.

[0026] In more detail, in order to travel on roads and / or for example to move around on a construction site, on a plot of agricultural land, in the yard of a building or even inside a warehouse or other shed-type building, the vehicle 2 can be provided with wheels 3 or crawler tracks.

[0027] Furthermore, preferably (but not necessarily) the vehicle 2 is provided with a stabilizing system 4, which can be chosen to be conventional (and which typically are arranged both at the front and at the rear). The system 4 can be activated when the vehicle 2 has reached the exact position in which it is desired to carry out the intervention, in order to stabilize the handler 1 (offering superior stability on the ground A, even during interventions at considerable heights) and enable it to support heavy loads in total safety. For example, as shown schematically in the accompanying figures, the system 4 can comprise scissor stabilizers (already known in the prior art).

[0028] The handler 1 further comprises at least one telescopic boom 5, supported directly or indirectly by the vehicle 2 with the possibility of rotating at least with respect to a horizontal axis B. The terms "direct" or "indirect" support refer to the possibility that an additional component is interposed between the elements involved (in the affirmative, the support is "indirect", and in the negative, the support is "direct").

[0029] The boom 5 comprises a plurality of segments (or sections) 6a, 6b, 6c with the possibility of telescopic movement (relative translation).

[0030] More precisely, the boom 5 comprises at least one first segment 6a and an end segment 6c, and furthermore (as shown incidentally in the accompanying figures), there can be one or more intermediate segments 6b.

[0031] The "first segment 6a" here refers to the segment closest to the vehicle 2 and which is supported directly or indirectly by the latter.

[0032] The end segment 6c on the other hand is the segment furthest from the vehicle 2. Using the end segment 6c, the boom 5 is adapted to directly or indirectly support a work accessory 7.

[0033] According to methods that are in any case known, the first segment 6a can be considered "fixed" (it does not perform a translational motion) while each of the other segments can slide inside the segment 6a, 6b that immediately precedes it, protruding more or less partially from the latter in order to extend or retract the overall length of the boom 5.

[0034] As shown in the accompanying figures, the accessory 7 can be supported by a protruding appendage 6d (or "nose"), with which the end segment 6c is fitted. However, the possibility is not ruled out of the handler 1 being provided with two or more booms 5, for example mutually articulated.

[0035] Irrespective of the number of segments 6a, 6b, 6c in the boom 5, it should be emphasized from this point onward that the latter can be associated with at least two possible movements (represented with arrows in Figure 3): a rotation (of the entire boom 5) about the horizontal axis B, and a telescopic movement of relative translation (extraction / retraction) of its segments 6a, 6b, 6c, in order to extend or retract the overall length of the boom 5 and move the free end of the latter closer to / away from the axis of rotation B and closer to / away from the vehicle 2.

[0036] The accessory 7 can be of any type, while remaining within the scope of protection claimed herein: the accompanying figures show an embodiment (to which we will return later) which represents an application of significant practical interest, but it could be any other object, apparatus or tool adapted for the purpose for which the handler 1 is to be used (it could also be a platform designed to accommodate a person).

[0037] Typically (but not exclusively), the vehicle 2 also supports (directly or indirectly) a cab 8 configured to accommodate an operator. The cab 8 (like the boom 5) can be integral with the vehicle 2 beneath it or, as in the accompanying figures, it (again, like the boom 5) is mounted on a rotating structure 9, which is coupled to the vehicle 2 so that it can rotate about a vertical axis C (perpendicular to the ground A). In this case, as in the rest of the accompanying figures, the handler 1 is of the "rotary" type.

[0038] It is emphasized however that, for all aspects not discussed in the present description, any implementation detail relating to the handler 1 can be conventional. In particular therefore, the person skilled in the art can choose in each instance the fitting and the form of implementation of the vehicle 2, of the system 4, of the boom 5, of the cab 8, etc., deemed most suitable based on the common general knowledge of the sector and according to the specific requirements, while remaining within the scope of protection claimed herein.

[0039] According to the invention, the handler 1 comprises an electronic control and management unit 10 which is provided at least with a module for choosing between at least two distinct working modes (with which the handler 1 can be operated), which are associated with respective load charts 11.

[0040] The unit 10 is typically (but not exclusively) a controller, a PLC, a computer, another form of hardware, reprogrammable or otherwise (for example microprocessor-based), mounted on board the handler 1, and usually it is the same unit that governs all the activities of the latter. The possibility is not ruled out however of having a dedicated electronic component, mounted on the handler 1 and designed solely to execute the above mentioned task.

[0041] The choice between the two modes can for example be made by the user by pressing a button or acting on a control, for example made available in the cab 8; it could also be a digital command shown on a display associated with the unit 10.

[0042] According to a known practice, the diagram 11 (Figures 9 and 10) shows the handler 1 to scale and a two-dimensional representation of the region of space that the free end of the boom 5 (and therefore the accessory 7) can reach, by means of rotation about the horizontal axis B and / or extension: in this representation, the perimeter is charted of various work areas reachable by the boom 5, as the (weight of the) load applied to the accessory 7 varies.

[0043] Typically, the diagrams 11 are made available to the user via an interface or a display fitted to the unit 10 (or associated with it), but the possibility is not ruled out of charting them on a sheet of paper for display in the cab 8 or wherever the user operates.

[0044] The diagrams 11 associated with the two modes are different from each other, in that they take account of the different working conditions associated with the two working modes offered by the unit 10.

[0045] In more detail, in the first mode (which effectively corresponds to a "traditional" operation of the handler 1), the boom 5 is free to rotate with respect to the horizontal axis B and the telescopic movement of the segments 6a, 6b, 6c is permitted. The corresponding diagram 11 can for example be the one in Figure 8.

[0046] In the second mode, on the other hand, the boom 5 is free to rotate with respect to the horizontal axis B but the telescopic movement of the segments 6a, 6b, 6c is inhibited.

[0047] It should be noted in this regard that the stresses that normally act on the segments 6a, 6b, 6c of the boom 5 of a handler 1 (which evidently must be accounted for in the determination of the maximum sustainable loads charted on the diagram 11) are given by the maximum static load component, "Q", and the friction force component, "w": the total load on the segments 6a, 6b, 6c is therefore equal to Q+w.

[0048] In the second working mode, wherein effectively the segments 6a, 6b, 6c are "locked", we lose the friction component w, which normally increases in a more than linear manner (hyperbolically) as a function of the stroke of extension: the loads on the segments 6a, 6b, 6c are therefore appreciably reduced and it is possible to have far less stringent structural constraints.

[0049] The load diagram 11 associated with the second mode can for example be that in Figure 9 and it shows what is explained above: in the second mode, the boom 5 can be extended further and, for the same extension / extraction stroke of the segments 6b, 6c (and for the same inclination assumed with respect to the ground A), it can support appreciably heavier loads, making the handler 1 even better-performing (as long as it is not necessary to extend or retract the segments 6b, 6c), and it is suitable for tasks for which, using conventional methods, it is necessary to resort to using machines of another type.

[0050] Thus from this point onward the set aim is achieved. In the preferred embodiment, the unit 10 is provided with instructions for automatically inhibiting the telescopic movement of the segments 6a, 6b, 6c, upon the choice (made by the user) of the second working mode. The user therefore needs only to choose the second mode (in any manner, for example as noted by pressing a button or acting on a control of another type) in order to be able to rely on the (automatic) inhibition of the extension (and in general of the telescopic movement), applied by the unit 10.

[0051] In any case, the possibility is not ruled out of a simplified version of the invention, in which, after choosing the second mode it is left to the user to be responsible for not acting on the commands for telescopic movement, optionally displaying an alert message in this regard on the display or even on a sheet of paper or other "physical" medium to be placed in the cab 8 or wherever it is presumed that the user is controlling the handler 1.

[0052] The accessory 7 can be supplied with the handler 1 or sourced separately, and can also be interchangeable, so that it can be substituted at each use, according to the specific requirements. The accessory 7 or a set of accessories 7 can therefore be comprised in the handler 1 , but the scope of protection claimed herein also relates to handlers 1 that have no accessories 7, where these are to be sourced separately.

[0053] In the preferred application, illustrated in the accompanying figures, the accessory 7 is provided at least with (or constituted by) a winch 12. The handler 1 can therefore be supplied already comprising such an accessory 7, which is provided at least with (or constituted by) a winch 12; it can however be sourced separately.

[0054] More specifically, the accessory 7 can comprise a pylon or a truss 13 for supporting the winch 12. In the sector, this pylon or truss 13 is called a "jib".

[0055] Again, the handler 1 can be supplied already provided with such an accessory 7, comprising a supporting pylon or truss 13 for a winch 12; it can however be sourced separately.

[0056] Figures 1-3 show a handler 1 wherein the accessory 7 is effectively constituted by the winch 12 on its own, while in Figure 4 the accessory 7 comprises both the winch 12 and a truss or pylon 13 to support it.

[0057] The application of the invention for handlers 1 fitted with a winch 12 is of particular interest, because in the second mode such a handler can effectively behave like a crane, substituting the latter and in any case ensuring high load capacities (higher than those ensured by traditional handlers, for the reasons explained above).

[0058] The handler 1 can comprise an apparatus 14 for compensating the rotation of the boom 5 about the horizontal axis B, for automatically maintaining a (specific) inclination assumed by the accessory 7 as the inclination of the boom 5 with respect to the ground A varies. This is a known solution per se, commonly adopted because often it is necessary to ensure that the accessory 7 is kept (for example) horizontal, during the rotation of the boom 5. This movement is called "tilting" in the jargon.

[0059] For example, this occurs when the accessory 7 comprises a pallet fork, intended for moving pallets, for which obviously it is necessary to guard against the danger of overturning once they have been loaded onto the handler 1.

[0060] In such case, the handler 1 can comprise means 15 for inhibiting the apparatus 14, so as to ensure the accessory 7 moves integrally with the boom 5.

[0061] This is an option that is found to be of particular interest if the accessory 7 comprises or is constituted by the pylon or truss 13. In this manner in fact, by extending the boom 5 (by virtue of telescopic movement) it is possible to reach even greater heights and move loads even higher, by virtue of the fact that the accessory 7 does not change inclination and can be maintained, for example, aligned with the boom 5.

[0062] The handler 1 thus can support an accessory 7 that is very long, with the pylon or truss 13 acting as a true extension of the boom 5.

[0063] It is likewise possible that, following the activation of the means 15, a third mode is activated which is associated with another load diagram 11, different from the diagrams associated with the other two modes, described previously.

[0064] In a first possible embodiment, the means 15 comprise a mechanical constraint (of any type), which can be activated (or fitted, or applied) reversibly, in order to provide the (temporary) integral connection of the end segment 6c with the accessory 7.

[0065] For example, the mechanical constraint can comprise or be constituted by one or more pins, conveniently placed.

[0066] Alternatively (or in addition), it is possible for the electronic control and management unit 10 to be provided with instructions for activating and deactivating (and more generally managing) the means 15.

[0067] In this case therefore, the inhibition of the apparatus 14 is effectively obtained via software.

[0068] In a preferred, non-exclusive embodiment, the apparatus 14 comprises a hydraulic actuator 16 which is actuated by a respective hydraulic circuit and which is configured to move the accessory 7.

[0069] For example, it is possible for the actuator 16 (which could be a hydraulic cylinder) to act on a quick coupling 17 mounted on the free end of the boom 5 (of the end segment 6c and / or of the appendage 6d).

[0070] Usefully, it is possible for the means 15 to comprise a solenoid valve which can be actuated on command to temporarily cut the connection between the actuator 16 and the circuit. The solenoid valve can be controlled by the unit 10 or in another way.

[0071] Advantageously, it is likewise possible for the control and management unit 10 to be provided with a control module for the hydraulic circuit and / or for the actuator 16.

[0072] The unit 10 can comprise (or be associated with) a BUS communication channel 18. The channel 18 allows the unit 10 to interface, for example, with the vehicle 2, the boom 5, the means 15, the other components listed above or still other components, and in any case to coordinate their operation and optimally manage the different working modes.

[0073] Protection is also claimed herein for a method of controlling (or using / use) a telescopic handler 1 of the type described above, which therefore comprises at least one vehicle 2 which can move over ground A and a telescopic boom 5, supported directly or indirectly by the vehicle 2 and with the possibility of rotation at least with respect to a horizontal axis B. Furthermore, the boom 5 comprises a plurality of segments 6a, 6b, 6c with the possibility of telescopic movement and is adapted, with the end segment 6c, for the direct or indirect support of a work accessory 7 (of any type but preferably comprising a winch 12).

[0074] According to the invention, the method (or the use / utilization) entails, in a first working mode, with which a first load chart 11 (Figure 8) is associated, permitting the rotation of the boom 5 with respect to the horizontal axis B and the telescopic movement of the segments 6a, 6b, 6c.

[0075] Moreover, according to the invention, the method (or the use / utilization) entails, in a second working mode, with which a second load chart 11 (Figure 9) is associated, permitting the rotation of the boom 5 with respect to the horizontal axis B but inhibiting the telescopic movement of the segments 6a, 6b, 6c.

[0076] The operation of the handler 1 according to the invention has effectively already been described, but a brief summary is given below.

[0077] The vehicle 2 can move over the ground A in order to bring the handler 1 to the place and exact point where it is necessary to execute an intervention (usually at a given height from the ground A).

[0078] After having reached the point of operation it is possible to activate the system 4, in order to obtain superior stability on the ground A. In the first working mode, which is traditional, the operator is free to control the telescopic movement of the boom 5 (by sliding the segments 6a, 6b, 6c with respect to each other) and / or to rotate it about the horizontal axis B, according to the specific requirements.

[0079] In the second mode, on the other hand, the rotation about the horizontal axis B is permitted while the segments 6a, 6b, 6c are locked, because the telescopic movement is inhibited.

[0080] In both modes, the rotation (if needed) of the structure 9 is permitted and, in the preferred but not exclusive case where the accessory 7 comprises or is constituted by a winch 12, it is furthermore possible to command the ascent or descent of the winch 12 block.

[0081] Figures 1-3 show a possible work sequence (using a winch 12): first of all the user brings the boom 5 to a given configuration, empty (with no load), with the handler 1 in the first working mode, so arriving at the condition of Figure 1.

[0082] For example by pressing a button, the user then activates the second working mode, after which it is no longer possible to command the telescopic movement of the boom 5 but only the rotation about the horizontal axis B (or optionally about the axis vertical C) and the ascent or descent of the winch 12 block.

[0083] Thus, the operator can make the winch 12 block descend (Figure 2) and load a container D (Figure 3) or other load. Subsequently the load can be rotated or lifted. In this step, in an entirely peculiar and innovative manner, the user can work according to the diagram 11 with increased loads (the diagram in Figure 9), by virtue of the locking of the segments 6a, 6b, 6c.

[0084] Only after having released the container D on the ground will it be possible to return to the first mode.

[0085] In practice it has been found that the handler 1 and the method according to the invention fully achieve the set aim and objects, in that in the second working mode, in which the telescopic movement of the boom 5 is inhibited, the handler 1 can work with a winch 12 (or other accessories 7), so ensuring high load capacities, decidedly higher than those possible with conventional solutions.

[0086] The applicant has in fact calculated that the maximum load values (acquired on the limiter and taken account of in operation) can be (especially at considerable heights) greater by a factor of 1.6 (or more), with respect to the "usual" values in the diagrams 11.

[0087] Therefore when the accessory 7 comprises a winch 12 (and optionally the truss or pylon 13), the handler 1 can effectively operate like a crane, while still ensuring high levels of performance.

[0088] The invention, thus conceived, is susceptible of numerous modifications and variations, all of which are within the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, all the details may be substituted by other, technically equivalent elements.

[0089] In the embodiments illustrated, individual characteristics shown in relation to specific examples may in reality be substituted with other, different characteristics, existing in other embodiments.

[0090] In practice, the materials employed, as well as the dimensions, may be any according to requirements and to the state of the art.

[0091] The disclosures in Italian Patent Application No. 102024000013846 from which this application claims priority are incorporated herein by reference.

[0092] Where technical features mentioned in any claim are followed by reference signs, those reference signs have been included for the sole purpose of increasing the intelligibility of the claims and accordingly, such reference signs do not have any limiting effect on the interpretation of each element identified by way of example by such reference signs.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A telescopic handler, comprising at least one vehicle (2) which can move over ground (A) and a telescopic boom (5), supported directly or indirectly by said vehicle (2) with the possibility of rotation at least with respect to a horizontal axis (B), said boom (5) comprising a plurality of segments (6a, 6b, 6c) with the possibility of telescopic movement and being adapted, with an end segment (6c), for the direct or indirect support of a work accessory (7), characterized in that it comprises an electronic control and management unit (10) equipped at least with a module for choosing between at least two distinct working modes, which are associated with respective load charts (11), in a first said mode said boom (5) being free to rotate with respect to said horizontal axis (B) and said telescopic movement of said segments (6a, 6b, 6c) being permitted, in a second said mode said boom (5) being free to rotate with respect to said horizontal axis (B) and said telescopic movement of said segments (6a, 6b, 6c) being inhibited.

2. The telescopic handler according to claim 1, characterized in that said electronic control and management unit (10) is provided with instructions for automatically inhibiting said telescopic movement of said segments (6a, 6b, 6c) upon the choice of said second working mode.

3. The telescopic handler according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said work accessory (7) is provided with at least one winch (12).

4. The handler according to claim 3, characterized in that said work accessory (7) comprises a pylon or truss (13) for supporting said winch (12).

5. The telescopic handler according to one or more of the preceding claims and comprising an apparatus (14) for compensating for the rotation of said boom (5) about said horizontal axis (B), for automatically maintaining the inclination assumed by the work accessory (7) as the inclination of said boom (5) with respect to the ground (A) varies, characterized in that it comprises means (15) for inhibiting said apparatus (14) in order to move the work accessory (7) integrally with said boom (5).

6. The handler according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said means (15) comprise a reversibly activateable mechanical coupling for the integral connection of said end segment (6c) to the work accessory (7).

7. The telescopic handler according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that said electronic control and management unit (10) is provided with instructions for activating and deactivating said means (15).

8. The telescopic handler according to one or more of claims 5-7, characterized in that said apparatus (14) comprises a hydraulic actuator (16) operated by means of a respective hydraulic circuit and configured for the movement of the work accessory (7).

9. The telescopic handler according to claim 8, characterized in that said electronic control and management unit (10) is provided with a module for the control of said hydraulic circuit and / or of said actuator (16).

10. A method of controlling a telescopic handler (1), the telescopic handler comprising at least one vehicle (2) which can move over ground (A) and a telescopic boom (5), supported directly or indirectly by the vehicle (2) with the possibility of rotation at least with respect to a horizontal axis (B), the boom (5) comprising a plurality of segments (6a, 6b, 6c) with the possibility of telescopic movement and being adapted, with an end segment (6c), for the direct or indirect support of a work accessory (7), characterized in that the method provides, in a first working mode, with which a first load chart (11) is associated, for permitting the rotation of the boom (5) with respect to the horizontal axis (B) and the telescopic movement of the segments (6a, 6b, 6c), and in that it provides, in a second working mode, with which a second load chart (11) is associated, for permitting the rotation of the boom (5) with respect to the horizontal axis (B) and for inhibiting the telescopic movement of the segments (6a, 6b, 6c).

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