EP2876058A1 - Safety device - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a safety device (200) for an emptying device (104) having an at least partially flexible barrier unit (213) which can be moved from a rest position into a securing position, wherein a measuring device (208) for monitoring the at least partially flexible barrier unit (213 ) serves.

Description

The present invention relates to a safety device for monitoring the working area of a bed, which has at least one emptying device for emptying refuse containers, according to the preamble of patent claim 1.

The emptying process of refuse containers always requires the same handles and process steps. For emptying of garbage containers in a collection these are brought from the garbage workers to the garbage truck and attached to the lowered emptying. Subsequently, the emptying process is started automatically or manually when the container is started. The progressive automation of emptying devices thus saves time and costs. On the other hand, safety devices are required to prevent uninvolved persons from inadvertently entering the work area of the emptying devices and being injured by them.

Dumping devices with safety devices are known.

From the DE 34 05 997 A1 For example, a device for emptying containers, in particular refuse containers, into a collecting container is known in which the working area of the lifting and tilting device, or the tilting device, can be secured by means of safety measures for the protection of uninvolved persons. For this purpose, barrier elements are provided on the side walls of the collecting container, which are movable in a working area laterally shut-off securing position. These barrier elements are connected to a control circuit of the lifting or tilting device, so that an automatic Emptying of containers is only possible if the barrier elements are in the securing position. These are, for example, barriers that are swung up in the rest position and pivoted down in the securing position and occupy a substantially horizontal position. In the safety position, the barriers actuate a switching element which closes the control circuit for the emptying device so that the automatic emptying process can be carried out. At rest, this switching element is released, whereby the control circuit is interrupted. The disadvantage of such switches is that they are exposed to dirt in everyday use and thus may not always work reliably.

To additionally secure the feeder area between the barriers during the emptying process, is from the EP 0 699 601 B1 a device for receiving and emptying refuse containers in a collecting container with at least one emptying device and the side of the emptying device arranged barriers known. At the free ends of the barriers, at least one light barrier protecting the feeder area is arranged, wherein the transmitter is attached to one barrier and the receiver to the opposite barrier. The light barrier is connected to a control device which is designed to activate the light barrier during a period of the emptying process and to prevent or interrupt the emptying process when the light barrier is interrupted.

From the US 3,942,601 A garbage truck is also known in which barriers are arranged laterally of the emptying device, which likewise have a light barrier at their free end. The photocells are switched on at the beginning of an emptying tour and switched off again when the tour is over, so that the working area is monitored by means of light barriers throughout the emptying process.

However, all safety devices have in common that generally rigid barrier elements are used on the side walls of the refuse vehicle, or laterally next to the lifting and tilting devices. These rigid barrier elements are arranged on a swivel device on the refuse truck and swing out, whereby the rest or backup position is adjustable. Due to the intransigence of the barrier elements, however, these can have a disturbing effect in the securing position, especially in narrow streets or on heavily traveled paths. Also, these safety devices must always be moved under supervision in and out of the securing position to avoid possible damage to passers-by or surrounding objects such as cars.

From the EP 1 852 368 B1 a security device is known which serves to secure a working area of a refuse container emptying device and is likewise provided with a barrier, which can be moved from a basic position into a securing position. To avoid injury to passers-by, this barrier is made of a flexible material.

This flexible barrier can be moved automatically from the basic position to the securing position, because surrounding passers-by and cars are not injured by the flexible material. However, such a trained flexible barrier has the disadvantage that passersby can overcome the barrier very easily and without much effort and thus can get into the work area of the lifting and tilting device. This represents a huge security problem.

It is starting from the EP 1 852 368 B1 It is therefore the object of the invention to further improve the safety of a safety device which has at least partially flexible barrier units, so that in particular uninvolved passersby are not injured by the emptying devices.

This object is achieved with a safety device according to claim 1.

The safety device for monitoring the working area of a bed having at least one emptying device for emptying refuse containers, and at least one barrier unit having first and second ends which is at least partially flexible and which is movable from a rest position to a secured position. The safety device is characterized in that at least one measuring device is provided for monitoring the at least partially flexible barrier unit.

The barrier unit is preferably attached to the first end, e.g. on the refuse bin or on a bed, and not attached to the second end.

Flexibility is understood to mean the reversible deformability or else the flexibility of the barrier unit.

The safety device offers a significantly improved protection of the working area of the emptying devices, because the measuring device monitors and detects a movement, deformation or pressure bending of the barrier unit located in the securing position, which are accidentally caused, for example, by passers-by.

This measuring device is preferably coupled to a control device of the emptying device. As soon as the barrier unit is moved by, for example, a pedestrian, the measuring device sends a signal to the emptying device and interrupts the emptying process. Thus, the risk of injury to pedestrians or operators by the movable elements of the emptying device can be significantly reduced.

Also, the measuring device may be connected to an audible or visual alarm device, which is triggered in the case described above and warns the person concerned.

Preferably, the measuring device is at least partially disposed within the barrier unit. This has the advantage that the measuring device is protected against external influences such as dirt, dust or moisture. As a result, the proper function of the measuring device can be ensured even in adverse environmental conditions and a long life can be made possible.

Preferably, the measuring device is arranged completely within the barrier unit. The measuring device can be arranged at any location between the first end and the second end of the barrier unit. Particularly preferably, the measuring device is arranged at the first end of the barrier unit.

Preferably, the barrier unit has a cavity, which preferably adjoins the measuring device. In this cavity is the measuring section, which is measured by the measuring device and thus monitored. Over the length of the cavity, the measurement accuracy and sensitivity can be adjusted. The cavity preferably extends at least over a portion of the barrier unit.

However, this cavity preferably extends from the first end to the second end of the barrier unit, thereby measuring and monitoring the greatest possible distance, thus achieving high sensitivity of the measuring device.

The measuring device preferably has a transmitter and a receiver.

The transmitter sends out a signal. This signal is then detected by the receiver, whereby the current state of the safety device is analyzed and monitored.

Preferably, transmitter and receiver are arranged at the first end of the barrier unit.

In an advantageous embodiment of the safety device, the transmitter is arranged such that a signal emitted by the transmitter is emitted in the direction of the second end of the barrier unit. In this case, the signal can be transmitted in parallel or at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the barrier unit located in the securing position.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the measuring device is a rangefinder.

A rangefinder has the advantage that it can quickly and easily detect movement or shape changes of the located in the securing position barrier unit. The rangefinder permanently measures a distance that extends at least partially through the barrier unit, preferably in the axial direction over the entire length of the barrier unit. The inner surface of the barrier unit acts as a reflector.

Any location on the inside of the barrier unit, in particular any point on the wall bounding the cavity, may form the end point of the measuring section. The location of the measuring point and thus the length of the measuring path can be determined by the direction of the emitted signal with respect to the Longitudinal axis of the located in the securing position barrier unit and / or be selected by the shape of the cavity. By selecting the location of the measuring point and / or the choice of the length of the measuring section, the sensitivity of the measuring device can be adjusted.

If a person presses against the barrier unit in the secured position, the measured distance is changed due to the flexibility and the associated deformation of the barrier unit. This change is detected by the range finder, whereby a signal is sent to, for example, the control device of the emptying device and the emptying process is interrupted.

Another advantage of the rangefinder is that it can permanently measure the intended distance and also provides incremental values. Since the deformation or deflection of the barrier unit is almost directly proportional to the change in the measured distance, a threshold can be set with respect to the amount of deformation or deflection from which a signal is triggered. This allows a variable adjustability of the sensitivity of the barrier unit and thus the trigger point for interrupting the emptying process.

Advantageously, the measuring device is an optical rangefinder.

In an optical rangefinder, an optical transmitter transmits a signal in the form of a light beam or pulse of light along the path to be measured. Preferably, a laser beam or laser pulse is used as the signal. This signal is reflected at the measuring point, in this case on the inside of the barrier unit, and subsequently detected by an optical receiver. About the phase relations between sent out and detected light signal, over the measurement time or even via a change in the reflection angle, the distance change can be determined.

Optical rangefinders offer the advantage of high sensitivity in terms of measured distances. This allows, for example, a precise adjustability of a threshold value. Furthermore, optical rangefinder are available in very compact designs, whereby they can be arranged to save space within the barrier unit.

As optical distance measurements in the context of this invention, three different commercial methods can be used: the transit time measurement, the measurement of the phase length of laser pulses or the triangulation.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the measuring device is an ultrasonic rangefinder.

For generating ultrasound are suitable as ultrasonic transmitter dynamic and electrostatic speakers and in particular piezoelectric speakers. In an ultrasonic rangefinder, the ultrasound transmitter sends a signal in the form of ultrasound along the route to be measured. This signal is also reflected at the measuring point, in this case on the inside of the barrier unit, and then detected by an ultrasonic receiver. In principle, dynamic and electrostatic receivers and, in particular, piezoelectric receivers are also suitable for the reception of ultrasonic waves. The electrical signals obtained can then be subjected to a phase evaluation, whereby the Meßstreckenänderung and thus the deformation of the barrier unit is detectable.

Ultrasonic rangefinders offer the advantage that they are also available in a very compact design and thus can be arranged easily and space-saving within the barrier unit. Furthermore, in case of a possible defect of the at least partially flexible barrier unit, only ultrasonic waves emerge from it, which are completely harmless to the environment.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the measuring device is a light barrier.

In the light barrier, a reflector is arranged within the barrier unit between the first and the second end. Preferably, the reflector is arranged at the end of the cavity between the first and the second end of the barrier unit.

The transmitter of the optical device sends a signal, preferably a laser beam or a laser pulse, into the barrier unit and onto the reflector. If the safety device is in the securing position, the emitted laser beam or pulse is reflected by the reflector in such a way that it is detected by the receiver.

By the movement of the safety device from the secured position at rest or by any movement or deformation of the barrier unit by a person while the safety device is in the securing position, the position of the reflector is changed so that the signal is no longer reflected in the direction of the receiver , Consequently, the light barrier is interrupted. As a result, for example, a signal sent to the control unit of the emptying and interrupted the emptying and / or an optical or acoustic signal are triggered.

The advantage of such a photoelectric barrier is the high sensitivity, whereby even the slightest deformation or deflection at the barrier unit can be detected.

In an advantageous embodiment, the barrier unit has an at least partially flexible barrier element.

This barrier element serves as a barrier to prevent pedestrians from entering the working area of the emptying device. Furthermore, the flexibility of the barrier element prevents contact with the barrier element from causing damage or injury to nearby objects or persons.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the barrier unit has a connecting element.

With this connecting element, the barrier unit is arranged on the refuse vehicle and preferably on the side walls of the bed. This offers the advantage that the safety device according to the invention can be retrofitted to existing emptying devices. Thus, the safety device is variable.

Advantageously, the barrier element is arranged on the connecting element. In particular, the barrier element is releasably secured to the connecting element.

This makes it possible that the flexible barrier element can also be arranged directly on the refuse vehicle via the connecting element. In addition, the barrier can be quickly and inexpensively replaced in the event of a defect on the detachable connection point.

Advantageously, the barrier element consists of a flexible plastic or fabric.

Plastics have the advantage that they can be produced quickly and inexpensively. Furthermore, they are resistant to weathering and have a long life. Flexible plastics can be produced in any order of magnitude, so that even the barrier elements can be produced quickly and inexpensively in a wide variety of sizes. In addition, plastics offer the opportunity to produce the barrier elements in a wide variety of shapes. Also, today tissue can be produced for a variety of uses and thus have a high stability and longevity.

Advantageously, the connecting element consists of metal, a metal alloy or a solid plastic.

This has the advantage that on the one hand the interior of the connecting element is protected against external influences and on the other hand, the complete connecting element is durable and robust.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the barrier element is designed inflatable.

An inflatable barrier element has the advantage that the securing position of the barrier unit can be easily and quickly taken by the introduction of air into the barrier element. Accordingly, the rest position can be restored by releasing the air from the barrier element. The combination of a flexible and inflatable barrier element also offers the advantage that the securing position of the barrier unit can be done automatically and without supervision by the garbage workers, whereby the emptying process is accelerated.

Upon contact between the barrier member and a person or object during inflation, the barrier member would flex flexibly, minimizing the risk of injury or damage from contact with the barrier member.

Preferably, compressed air is used when inflating the barrier.

For this purpose, the barrier unit is connected, for example, directly to the compressed air system of the refuse vehicle.

Further advantageously, the flexible barrier element is designed as an inflatable hollow body.

As a hollow body, the barrier element has a cavity in its interior. This cavity preferably extends completely in the axial direction through the barrier element. However, it may also be formed only a portion of the barrier element with a cavity, while the other portion consists of, for example, solid material.

By such a shape, the barrier element forms a closed chamber, so that after inflation with air, the barrier element and thus the barrier unit are placed in a stable state and movement of passers-by in the working area of the emptying device is effectively prevented. By an inflatable hollow body, the barrier element can be accommodated very space-saving in the rest position.

Furthermore, the measuring device can measure in this cavity, the movements of the barrier element and thus monitor. Thus, the monitoring of the at least partially flexible barrier unit is encapsulated and is neither visible nor manipulatable by, for example, a garbage worker and a pedestrian.

A further embodiment includes that both the flexible barrier element, and the connecting element each have at least one opening, wherein the opening of the flexible barrier element and the opening of the connecting element are at least partially congruent.

These at least partially congruent openings have the advantage that the barrier element can be supplied directly via the connecting element with compressed air. Furthermore, the measuring device, which is mounted within the barrier unit, interact via the openings with the connecting element and / or the barrier element and arranged as desired.

In an advantageous embodiment, the measuring device is arranged within the connecting element of the barrier unit.

This offers the advantage that the measuring device is arranged protected against external environmental influences. This increases the service life and allows trouble-free operation of the measuring device.

In a likewise advantageous embodiment of the safety device according to the invention, the at least partially flexible barrier unit has at least one joint element.

This joint element has the advantage that the barrier unit can be moved via the joint element from a rest position into a securing position and vice versa. Thus, the flexible barrier element does not have to be permanently filled with compressed air and emptied when, for example, refuse containers are brought to the emptying device. As a result, the barrier element can be moved easily and quickly through the garbage workers.

Preferably, the hinge element is mounted between the connecting element and the barrier element.

Thus, advantageously, the connecting element can be attached directly to the refuse vehicle. The barrier element can be pivoted as needed about the hinge element or about the connecting element.

Another preferred embodiment of the invention provides a maximum internal pressure of the at least partially flexible barrier unit of 6 bar.

As already described, is permanently attached to the refuse vehicle compressed air. Most systems operate with a pressure of 6 bar. Thus, the safety device can be easily and inexpensively connected to the existing compressed air system of the garbage truck and it requires no establishment of a second expensive compressed air system.

Preferably, the barrier unit has a maximum internal pressure of 1.5 bar.

The advantage offered by filling the barrier unit at 1.5 bar is the increased safety of persons standing nearby in the event of damage to the barrier unit if it should empty suddenly. In addition, 1.5 bar for a stable orientation of the inflatable barrier element in their secured position for a protection of the working area of the emptying completely sufficient. This also saves energy and costs.

Figur 1a

eine Seitenansicht des Hecks eines Müllfahrzeugs mit einer Sicherheitsvorrichtung in Sicherungsstellung,

Figur 1b

die Draufsicht auf die in Figur 1a gezeigte Anordnung,

Figur 1c

eine Seitenansicht des Hecks eines Müllfahrzeugs mit einer Barriereeinheit in zwei Stellungen,

Figur 2a

eine Seitenansicht des Hecks eines Müllfahrzeugs mit einer Barriereeinheit in Ruhestellung (Ruhezustand I),

Figur 2b

eine Seitenansicht des Hecks eines Müllfahrzeugs mit einer Barriereeinheit in Ruhestellung (Ruhezustand II),

Figur 2c

eine Seitenansicht des Hecks eines Müllfahrzeugs mit einer Barriereeinheit mit Gelenk,

Figur 3a

eine schematische Darstellung der Sicherheitsvorrichtung mit Messeinrichtung,

Figur 3b

eine schematische Darstellung der Sicherheitsvorrichtung mit Messeinrichtung gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform,

Figur 4

eine perspektivische Darstellung der Barriereeinheit,

Figur 5

eine perspektivische Darstellung der Barriereeinheit gemäß einer weiteren Ausführungsform,

Figur 6a

eine perspektivische Darstellung der Barriereeinheit mit Messeinrichtung,

Figur 6b

eine perspektivische Darstellung der Barriereeinheit mit Messeinrichtung,

Figur 7a, 7b

eine perspektivische Darstellung des Verbindungselements mit Messeinrichtung,

Figur 8a

eine perspektivische Darstellung der Barriereeinheit mit angebautem Schrankenelement,

Figur 8b

eine perspektivische Darstellung der Barriereeinheit mit angebautem Schrankenelement.

Further details and features of the safety device for emptying devices according to the invention are explained below with reference to drawings. Show it:

FIG. 1a

a side view of the rear of a refuse vehicle with a safety device in the securing position,

FIG. 1b

the top view of the in FIG. 1a shown arrangement,

Figure 1c

a side view of the rear of a refuse vehicle with a barrier unit in two positions,

FIG. 2a

a side view of the rear of a refuse vehicle with a barrier unit in the rest position (idle state I),

FIG. 2b

a side view of the rear of a refuse vehicle with a barrier unit in the rest position (idle state II),

Figure 2c

a side view of the rear of a refuse vehicle with a joint unit with joint,

FIG. 3a

a schematic representation of the safety device with measuring device,

FIG. 3b

a schematic representation of the safety device with measuring device according to another embodiment,

FIG. 4

a perspective view of the barrier unit,

FIG. 5

a perspective view of the barrier unit according to another embodiment,

FIG. 6a

a perspective view of the barrier unit with measuring device,

FIG. 6b

a perspective view of the barrier unit with measuring device,

Figure 7a, 7b

a perspective view of the connecting element with measuring device,

FIG. 8a

a perspective view of the barrier unit with attached barrier element,

FIG. 8b

a perspective view of the barrier unit with attached barrier element.

In the FIG. 1a the rear part of a refuse vehicle 100 is shown with a collecting container 101, wherein at the rear of the collecting container 101 a bed 102 is arranged. The bed 102 has on each vertically extending side of a side wall 103 and between these side walls 103 one or two juxtaposed emptying devices 104. In the representation shown here ( FIG. 1a ), however, only the lower part of a lift truck of an emptying device 104 with the abutment plate 105 can be seen.

On the outside of the side wall 103, the safety device 200 is arranged, which is in the securing position. The safety device 200 is disposed on each of the side walls 103, but as shown in FIG FIG. 1a only visible on one side.

The safety device 200 has an at least partially flexible barrier unit 213, consisting of a flexible barrier element 201 and a connecting element 202, and a measuring device 208, which is located in the barrier unit 213 and is therefore not recognizable. A detailed explanation of the measuring device 208 takes place in connection with the descriptions of Figures 3 . 6 and 7 ,

The barrier element 201 of the barrier unit 213 is connected to the connecting element 202 via a connecting piece 207. The barrier member 201, the connecting member 202, and the connecting piece 207 together form the aforementioned barrier unit 213. However, the barrier unit 213 may be formed without the connecting piece 207. The connecting element 202 is arranged on the side wall 103 of the refuse collection vehicle 100. Alternatively, the connecting element 202 may also be attached directly to the collecting container 101.

Via pressure lines 106, the safety device 200, and in particular the connecting element 202, connected to the compressed air system 107 of the refuse collection vehicle 100, whereby the flexible barrier member 201 is easily and quickly filled with compressed air of the compressed air system 107.

In addition, the safety device 200 is connected to the circuit 108 of the refuse vehicle 100, whereby the measuring device 208 is supplied with power. The control of the measuring device 208 and the communication between the safety device 200 and bed 102 of the refuse vehicle 100 via a control device 109, wherein the control device 109 is coupled to the emptying device 104. This ensures that the emptying device 104 can only work when the safety device 200 in which the barrier unit 213 is in the securing position is activated. Furthermore, the control device 109 enables automated operation of the safety device 200. Thus, it is possible, for example, when operating the emptying 104, the safety device 200 automatically to move to the securing position before the actual emptying occurs. The barrier element 201 in this case has a length L which is selected such that in the securing position of the entire work area 111 (shown in the FIG. 1 b) is secured.

In addition to the control device 109, the safety device 200 can be operated via a manual operating element 110, which is likewise preferably arranged on the outside of a side wall 103. However, the operating element 110 may also be arranged in the vicinity of the safety device 200.

In addition to the compressed air lines 106, all other lines of, for example, the circuit 108 or the control device 109 also lead into the connection element 202 of the safety device 200.

In the FIG. 1b is a top view of the in the FIG. 1a shown arrangement shown. The barrier units 213 are each secured to the side wall 103 with the first end 220. The second end 222 is formed as a free end. From both FIGS. 1a and 1b It can be seen that the safety device 200 and in particular the two barrier units 213 with the barrier elements 201 extend horizontally backwards so far from the refuse vehicle 100 that the working area 111 of the emptying devices 104 is completely laterally shielded. The working area 111 is at least the area which is required by the emptying 104 with arranged thereon garbage containers during the emptying process maximum.

The Figure 1c corresponds to the representations in the FIGS. 1a and 1b , However, in the Figure 1c the connecting element 202 is not arranged directly, but via a hinge 203 on the side wall 103. This hinge 203 is preferably a hinged hinge 203 so that the barrier unit 213 is rotatably mounted about an axis A (not shown). This axis A is preferably perpendicular through the side wall 103 and the connecting element 202 and is in connection with the FIG. 5 described in more detail.

The barrier unit 213 can be pivoted by the operating personnel 112 vertically upwards into the rest position (indicated by dashed lines). Both in the securing position, as well as in the rest position, the barrier unit 213 can be locked. In the securing position, the barrier unit 213 extends horizontally, while in the rest position, the barrier unit 213 extends vertically to the ground, resulting in a preferred pivoting radius of 90 °.

In the Figure 1c the securing position is represented by a closed outline of the barrier element 201 and the rest position by a dashed outline.

In the FIG. 2a the safety device 200 is also shown in the first rest position. In this first rest position, the flexibility of the barrier element 201 is utilized, which is bent upwards into a vertical position. The barrier element 201 is preferably bent over a bending region 204. This bending region 204 may be formed from a different material and / or wall thickness from the other barrier element 201, but is preferably made from the same material having the same wall thickness.

The connecting element 202 is attached directly to the side wall 103. To lock the barrier element 201 in this position, a fixing device 113 is likewise arranged on the side wall 103 of the refuse vehicle 100. This fixing device 113 is formed, for example, as a clamp or as a rubber band and allows a stationary locking of the barrier element 201 and thus the barrier unit 213 in the rest position. Preferably, the fixing device 113 is arranged such that it locks the barrier element 201 in its upper third.

In the FIG. 2b the safety device 200 is shown in a second rest position. This is different from the FIG. 2a merely in that the barrier element 201 is bent in the rest position in a vertical, downward position about the bending region 204. The length L of the barrier element 201 is chosen such that it does not touch the ground in the rest position, but ensures the protection of the working area 111 of the emptying 104 in the securing position, as already in connection with the FIGS. 1a and 1b mentioned.

In the Figure 2c is also the safety device 200 in the first rest position, as in FIG. 2a represented. In the bending region 204, however, an additional joint 205 is arranged. This joint 205 is located between the flexible barrier element 201 and the connecting element 202 and allows a largely wear-free pivoting of the barrier element 201 from the rest position to the securing position and vice versa. The joint 205 is formed for example as a bellows.

In the FIG. 3a a schematic drawing of the safety device 200 is shown with other devices. The barrier element 201 is here also connected via a connecting piece 207 detachably connected to the connecting element 202, whereby the barrier element 213 is likewise formed of barrier element 201, connecting piece 207 and connecting element 202. In principle, however, the barrier element 213 may also be formed without a connecting piece 207. In the connecting region between barrier element 201, connecting piece 207 and connecting element 202, an opening 206 is arranged in the connecting element 202. This opening 206 allows inter alia a pressure equalization between connecting element 202 and the flexible barrier element 201. The barrier element 201 is preferably designed as a cylindrical hollow body and has a cavity 214 in its interior.

In the connecting element 202, the measuring device 208 is arranged. This has a transmitter 209 and a receiver 210. The measuring device 208 preferably operates on the principle of a rangefinder. The transmitter 209 sends out a signal S in the cavity 214 of the barrier element 201, located in the FIG. 3a extends through the entire barrier element 201. As soon as this signal S hits an inner side of the barrier element 201, it is reflected, reflected back to the receiver 210 and detected by it. In the FIG. 3a the securing device 200 is shown in the securing position, so that the signal S within the barrier element 201 covers the greatest possible distance.

If the measuring device 208 is formed by an optical rangefinder transmitter 209 and receiver 210 are optical systems. Thus, the transmitter 209 is preferably a light or laser source, the receiver 210 is an optical detector and the signal S is a light or laser beam or a light or laser pulse.

On the other hand, if the measuring device 208 is formed by an ultrasonic rangefinder, then transmitter 209 and receiver 210 are ultrasound-based systems. Thus, transmitter 209 is preferably an ultrasound transmitter, receiver 210 is an ultrasound receiver, and signal S is ultrasound. Also, the ultrasonic signal may be pulsed or continuously emitted from the ultrasonic transmitter.

Via the connecting element 202, the safety device 200 is coupled to the control device 109 of the emptying device 104. This coupling enables a function of the emptying device 104 only when the safety device 200 is activated (safety device 200 is in the securing position), such that a corresponding signal is detected by the receiver 210.

In order to generate the desired pressure within the barrier unit 213 and preferably within the barrier element 201, the safety device 200 is, as already described in connection with FIGS FIG. 1a explained, via the connecting element 202 and compressed air lines 106 connected to the compressed air system 107 of the refuse vehicle 100. In addition to the compressed air system 107, the safety device 200, and in particular the measuring device 208, is connected to the circuit 108 of the refuse vehicle 100.

In addition to the measuring device 208, however, other sensors, such as, for example, pressure sensors, or even control elements such as, for example, an optical or acoustic shutter, may be arranged in the connecting element 202. In addition to other sensors, other signal generators for acoustic or optical signals when triggering the safety device 200 may be provided.

In the FIG. 3b which are essentially the FIG. 3a corresponds, the measuring device 208 is designed as an optical light barrier. This light barrier likewise emits an optical signal S into the barrier element 201 from the transmitter 209. However, this signal S is not reflected on the inner wall of the barrier element 201, but on a reflector 215 and then detected by the optical receiver 210. This reflector 215 may be formed by a mirror or even a polished metal plate and is disposed within the barrier element 201. The location of this reflector 215 within the barrier element 201 can be chosen arbitrarily. The shorter the distance between transmitter 209 and reflector 215 is selected, the less sensitive is the measuring device 208 during a deformation or deflection of the barrier element 201.

As soon as the safety device 200 is in the securing position, the reflector 215 has a corresponding position with respect to the optical transmitter 209 and the optical receiver 210, so that the optical signal S is reflected such that the receiver 210 can detect it. Once the position of the reflector 215 is changed by movement of the barrier member 201, it no longer reflects the optical signal S in the direction of the receiver 210 so that the light barrier is broken and the safety device 200 sends a signal to the refuse vehicle 100.

In the FIG. 4 the safety device 200 is shown in perspective. The flexible barrier element 201 is connected to the connecting element 202 via a connecting piece 207. Preferably, the connecting element 202 has a cover 211, through which the interior of the connecting element 202 is easily accessible. The barrier element 201 is in the FIG. 4 formed as a cylindrical hollow body, but can also take various other forms. The first end 220 of the barrier unit 213 is formed by the connecting element 202 and the second end 222 of the end face of the barrier element 201.

The FIG. 5 equals to FIG. 4 However, in addition to the connecting element 202, the joint 203 is shown. This joint 203, for example in the form of a swivel joint, is arranged on the side wall 103 of the bed 102 or directly on the collecting container 101 of a refuse vehicle 100 and thus connects the barrier unit 213 to the refuse vehicle. The barrier unit 213 is connected to the hinge 203 so that it is pivotable about the axis A.

In the FIG. 6a the safety device 200 is shown with the lid 211 of the connecting element 202 open. In the connecting element 202 is the Measuring device 208 can be seen, which is attached via fastening means 212, such as screws, on the lid opposite the inner wall of the connecting element 202. In addition, in the center axis of the barrier element 201, the path of the signal S is shown, which travels this in the securing position. The signal S extends from the connecting element 202 through the entire barrier element 201 to the second end 222.

In the FIG. 6b is also the safety device 200, as in the FIG. 6a , shown in secured position. However, here the signal S does not pass through the entire barrier element 201, but already hits the inner wall of the barrier element 201 before reaching the second end 222. If the measuring device 208 is formed by, for example, a rangefinder, it detects only path changes during movements of the barrier element 201 Any desired distance within the barrier element 201 and thus any desired measuring point can be used as the reference measuring distance, irrespective of the shape of the barrier element 201.

In the FIGS. 7a and 7b an enlarged view of the connecting element 202 with connected barrier element 201 is shown in each case. In the FIG. 7b In addition, the opening 206 in the connecting element 202 is clearly visible. In order to ensure a smooth operation of the measuring device 208, the openings 206 of the connecting element 202 is at least partially and preferably completely congruent with the opening 216 of the barrier element 201.

In the FIG. 8a the safety device 200 is shown in the securing state, in which the measuring device 208 is formed as a rangefinder and the barrier element 201 is bent such that a signal to the Emptying 104 of the refuse truck 100 is sent and the emptying process is interrupted.

The measuring device 208 permanently measures with a signal S the distance traveled by the signal S between the transmitter 209 and the receiver 210. The inner wall of the barrier element 201 serves as a reflector. In the normal safety position, the signal S returns the complete distance L of the cavity 214 located in the barrier element 201. However, as soon as the barrier element 201 is bent by a passer-by, a garbage maker or other object, the distance that the signal S has to travel decreases. By means of the control device 109, a threshold value, thus a minimum distance which the signal S has to cover, can thus be set, so that the emptying device 104 is automatically stopped or not even started when this minimum distance is reached.

In the FIG. 8b the security device 200 is also shown in the security state, in which the measuring device 208 is formed as an optical barrier and the barrier element 201 is bent such that a signal is sent to the emptying device 104 of the refuse vehicle 100 and the emptying process is also interrupted or not even started ,

Unlike the FIG. 8a is the measuring device 208 in the FIG. 8b formed by a light barrier with integrated reflector 215. This reflector 215 is disposed within the barrier element 201 and reflected in undisturbed securing position coming from the transmitter 209 signal S to the receiver 210. As soon as the barrier element 201 is also bent here by a passer, a garbage maker or other object, the position of the changes Reflectors 215. By this change in position, the signal S coming from the transmitter 209 is no longer reflected to the receiver 210, but to the inner wall of the barrier element 201. Consequently, the receiver 210 does not detect an optical signal S, whereby the safety device 200 sends a signal to the control device 109 and this automatically stops the emptying device 104 and thus interrupts the emptying process or does not even start it.

However, the measuring device 208 should not be limited to a rangefinder or the light barrier. Rather, all measuring devices that can detect movement changes are suitable for monitoring the at least partially flexible barrier unit.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

100

garbage truck

101

Clippings

102

fill

103

Side wall

104

emptying

105

Abutment plate

106

pressure line

107

Compressed air system

108

circuit

109

control device

110

operating element

111

Working area of the emptying device

112

operator

113

fixing

200

safety device

201

barrier member

202

connecting element

203

joint

204

bending area

205

joint

206

opening

207

joint

208

measuring device

209

transmitter

210

receiver

211

cover

212

fastener

213

barrier unit

214

cavity

215

reflector

216

opening

220

first end

222

second end

L

length

S

signal

A

axis

Claims (21)

Safety device (200) for monitoring the working area of a bed (102) having at least one emptying device (104) for emptying refuse containers,
at least one barrier unit (213) having a first end (220) and a second end (222) which is at least partially flexible and which is movable from a rest position to a securing position,
characterized,
in that at least one measuring device (208) is provided for monitoring the at least partially flexible barrier unit (213). Safety device (200) according to claim 1, characterized in that the measuring device (208) is at least partially disposed within the barrier unit (213). Safety device (200) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the barrier unit (213) has a cavity (214). Safety device (200) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the measuring device (208) has a transmitter (209) and a receiver (210). Safety device (200) according to claim 4, characterized in that transmitter (209) and receiver (210) are arranged at the first end (220) of the barrier unit (213). Safety device (200) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the transmitter (209) is arranged such that a signal (S) emitted by the transmitter (209) is emitted in the direction of the second end (222) of the barrier unit (213) , Safety device (200) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the measuring device (208) is a rangefinder. Safety device (200) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the measuring device (208) is an optical rangefinder. Safety device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the measuring device (208) is an ultrasonic rangefinder. Safety device (200) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the measuring device (208) is a light barrier. Safety device (200) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the barrier unit (213) has an at least partially flexible barrier element (201). Safety device (200) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the barrier unit (213) has at least one connecting element (202) on which the barrier element (201) is arranged. Safety device (200) according to one of claims 11 or 12, characterized in that the barrier element (201) consists of a flexible plastic or fabric. Safety device (200) according to one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the barrier element (201) is inflatable. Safety device (200) according to claim 14, characterized in that the barrier element (201) is an inflatable hollow body. Safety device (200) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the barrier unit (213) has an internal pressure of at most 6 bar. Safety device (200) according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the barrier unit (213) preferably has an internal pressure of at most 1.5 bar. Safety device (200) according to one of claims 12 to 17, characterized in that the barrier element (201) and the connecting element (202) each have at least one opening (216) and (206) and the opening (216) of the flexible barrier element (201 ) and the opening (206) of the connecting element (202) are at least partially congruent. Safety device (200) according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the measuring device (208) within the connecting element (202) of the barrier unit (213) is arranged. Safety device (200) according to one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the barrier unit (213) has a hinge (205). Safety device (200) according to claim 20, characterized in that the hinge (205) between the barrier element (201) and the connecting element (202) is arranged.

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