EP3601142A1

EP3601142A1 - Method and device for supporting a wheel

Info

Publication number: EP3601142A1
Application number: EP18718875.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Florian BOURDEAU; Lionel VIARD
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-03-31
Filing date: 2018-03-30
Publication date: 2020-02-05
Also published as: FR3064619A1; WO2018178524A1; FR3064618A1

Abstract

A device and method for supporting a wheel of a vehicle above and at a distance from a substantially horizontal working surface on which the vehicle rests, the device comprising - a base (23) extending along a support plane (12) of the device on the working surface; - at least one bearing member (16 to 22, 103, 104, 50) under the wheel; - a mechanism (13) for moving the bearing member with respect to the base, between a first configuration where the bearing member is spaced apart from the wheel and a second configuration where the bearing member bears against the wheel, the movement mechanism comprising a drive part (30) mounted to slide with respect to the base along a drive axis (56) substantially parallel to the support plane; - means for immobilising the movement mechanism in said second configuration; and - an actuator (55, 57, 60, 61, 61a, 70) designed to cause a sliding of the drive part with respect to the base along an actuating axis (58) the distance of which from the support plane (12) is greater than the distance separating the support plane from the drive axis (56).

Description

Method and device for supporting a wheel

TECHNICAL AREA

The present invention relates to a method of supporting a wheel of a vehicle and to a device for supporting the wheel.

The invention particularly relates to the support of a wheel of a motorcycle which is rotatably mounted on a shaft attached to a fork or an oscillating arm of the motorcycle.

STATE OF THE ART

For maintenance, assembly or disassembly of a wheel of a motorcycle, the motorcycle can be supported by the central stand of the motorcycle or by a workshop crutch for example such as that described in the patent EP3090931A1, such as so that the wheel extends above and away from a working surface (such as the ground) supporting the motorcycle.

In this configuration, the distance or height separating the wheel from the ground can take various values which depend mainly on the geometry of the motorcycle and that of the crutch, these values generally extending in a range from three centimeters to about twenty centimeters about.

In particular when the wheel is rotatably mounted on a shaft attached to the motorcycle, maintenance or disassembly of the wheel requires removal of the shaft out of the shaft housings provided in the fork and out of the hub of the wheel.

During this operation, a thread of the shaft may be damaged by friction against the wheel or against the shaft housing if the wheel is poorly supported or not supported.

When this extraction is carried out, the wheel is no longer supported by the shaft and it is the responsibility of the operator (mechanic) to avoid the fall of the wheel so as to avoid damaging the wheel and / or components of the wheel. motorcycle adjacent to the wheel, such as a transmission chain or brake calipers. When reassembling the wheel, the difficulties encountered by the operator are multiple, especially for a motorcycle rear wheel, since it is generally necessary to i) align the axis of rotation of the wheel with the shaft housings, guiding the wheel with one hand, the operator being able to support the wheel with one of his feet to adjust the height of the wheel axle; ii) position centering spacers on each side of the wheel; (iii) establish the chain of transmission; iv) position a brake caliper on a brake disc secured to the wheel, ensuring that the brake pads remain in place; (v) position one brake caliper bracket on one of the swingarms and on the brake disc at a time; and vi) reassemble the wheel shaft ensuring that all equipment remains in place and aligned.

These difficulties are even greater than the mass of the wheel is high, this mass is often at least equal to ten kilograms and up to twenty kilograms.

To facilitate these operations, EP2048107A1 discloses a lifting device such as a lifting table, whose height-adjustable tray receives the vehicle and two jacks arranged on the tray for lifting or supporting at least one wheel of the vehicle.

Each cylinder is a jack or hydraulic cylinder.

Each cylinder is movable in the plane of the plate to position the cylinder under the wheel, and has a wheel support surface movable between a position flush with the upper surface of the plate and a position above (or on the contrary below) of the upper surface of the tray.

STATEMENT OF THE INVENTION

A disadvantage of the device described in EP2048107A1 is that a jack capable of lifting a wheel integral with a vehicle is capable of compressing the suspension device of the wheel which is integrated in the vehicle; the combined efforts of the suspensions and the jack then apply significant friction on the wheel shaft, and it is then necessary to drive the tree by shocks applied at its end with the risk of damaging it; once an end of the shaft disengaged from one of its housings, the opposing forces exerted on the wheel by the jack and the suspension have the effect of positioning the shaft and the wheel at an angle, which causes jamming of these rooms.

In addition, a cylinder capable of lifting the wheel is likely to destabilize the vehicle and cause the vehicle to fall, particularly when the vehicle has only two wheels.

In addition, hydraulic jacks and jacks generally have a large minimum height. In fact, the platform of the lifting platform of EP2048107A1 comprises two depressions receiving the cylinders, which requires a plate of suitable thickness or complex shape. In addition, for a user who does not have a lifting platform, the use of such cylinders requires forming these depressions in the ground.

Also, the jacks and hydraulic cylinders generally have a base of small surface and an upper surface support (wheel) of small surface, so that they are generally unstable.

A disadvantage of a jack is that it is difficult to deploy with a tool or hand actuator when the jack is in a configuration "picked up", so close to the surface on which it rests.

A disadvantage of a jack is that it is difficult to operate with one hand while ensuring stability.

An object of the invention is to provide a method for supporting a wheel of a vehicle, in particular a motorcycle, during maintenance operations, assembly, or disassembly of the wheel, so as to relieve the operator, as well as a device for implementing the method.

An object of the invention is to provide such a device whose stability is improved. An object of the invention is to propose such a device whose minimum height (in compacted configuration) is reduced so as to be able to be slipped or inserted between the ground (or other working surface) and a wheel held at a short distance from the ground. above ground

An object of the invention is to provide such a device that can be easily used to support a wheel of a motorcycle supported on a stand shop or on its center stand, during assembly and disassembly of the wheel.

An object of the invention is to provide such a device that can be easily operated by a single end portion (hand or foot) of a member of an operator.

An object of the invention is to provide a method and a device for supporting a wheel over a work surface, which is improved and / or which remedies, in part at least, the disadvantages of known methods and devices .

According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for supporting a wheel of a vehicle above a work surface, which comprises;

- a base extending along a laying plane of the device on the work surface;

at least one support member under the wheel;

a mechanism for moving the support member relative to the base between a first configuration where the support member is remote from the wheel and a second configuration where the support member bears against the wheel, the movement mechanism comprising a driving piece slidably mounted relative to the base according to a drive axis parallel to the laying plane;

means for immobilizing the movement mechanism in said second configuration; and

an actuator arranged to cause the drive piece to slide relative to the base according to an actuation axis whose distance to the laying plane is greater than the distance separating the laying plane from the drive shaft.

This allows the actuator to be moved away from the working surface and to avoid any interference with the working surface during operation of the actuator, and makes it easy to actuate the actuator, particularly when the actuator is a portable tool such as a pneumatic or cordless screwdriver, or an actuator manually driven by the operator.

For this purpose, the base may comprise a first portion of elongate shape along a longitudinal axis parallel to the laying plane and which has a first height (measured along a measurement axis perpendicular to the laying plane), and a second portion (rigidly) secured to a longitudinal end of the first part of the base and having a second height greater than the first height.

The driving part may comprise a first portion of elongated shape along said longitudinal axis and having a third height, and a second portion (rigidly) secured to a longitudinal end of the first portion of the driving part and having a fourth height greater than the third height.

The driving part is arranged to move the organ (the members) or support surface (s) during its sliding relative to the base; and the actuator cooperates with (in particular is attached or attached to) the second part of the base and (a) the second part of the drive part.

This makes it possible to engage only part of the wheel support device in the picked up configuration, in particular only at least a part of the first part of the base and at least part of the first part of the drive part, between the work surface and the lowest point of the wheel, the device resting on the work surface.

According to one embodiment, the first and third heights are less than or equal to about one or two centimeters, so that the height (measured along the measurement axis) of the vertex (s) of the support member (bodies) may be less than or equal to about three centimeters when the deformable / deployable structure is in the "collected" configuration ".

To facilitate the movement of the support member by the action of one hand of the operator:

- The distance between the laying plane of the actuating axis can be determined (fixed), not changing during a displacement of the support member by the movement mechanism;

the actuator can be fixed (in particular suspended) to the base;

the actuator may be a linear actuator, in particular a mechanical linear actuator with manual drive; in particular the actuator may comprise an output member such as a tube or a bar extending along the axis of actuation and fixed to the drive part, and a handle fixed to the base and a lever of which the displacement relative to the handle causes a sliding of the tube or bar relative to the handle, along the axis of actuation, and therefore a sliding of the drive part relative to the base, along the axis of training; such an actuator may be an actuator having a handle and a trigger;

alternatively, the linear actuator may be pneumatic or hydraulic; in particular the actuator may comprise a deformable body attached to the base, an actuating member such as a rod extending along the axis of actuation, connected to the deformable body and fixed to the drive part, as well as a pump, in particular a hand pump or a foot pump, connected to the deformable body for delivering a fluid (in particular a gas, for example air) under pressure inside the deformable body, the increase in the pressure of the fluid in the deformable body causing a displacement of the actuating rod relative to the deformable body and the base, along the axis of actuation, and therefore the sliding of the drive part relative to the base. According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a device for supporting a wheel of a vehicle above the ground, which comprises;

- a base extending along a laying plane of the device on a work surface;

at least one support member (such as a plate) configured to support the wheel;

a mechanism for moving the support member relative to the base between a first configuration where the support member is remote from the wheel and a second configuration where the support member bears against the wheel, the movement mechanism comprising a drive member slidably mounted relative to the base or the support member along a drive axis parallel to the laying plane;

means for immobilizing the movement mechanism in said second configuration; and

- A "linear" actuator that is to say having an output member movable in translation, mechanical or pneumatic, and "manual" drive, by a single hand or a single foot of an operator, which is arranged to causing the driving piece to slide relative to the base or the support member.

The mechanism for moving the support member (or members) may comprise a deformable or deployable structure supporting or integrating the support member (or members), in particular an articulated structure comprising articulated arms or connecting rods ( e) connected to the base and the driving part so as to vary the height of the member (or organs) support relative to the laying plane during the displacement of the part of training.

To reduce the minimum height of the wheel support device:

the articulated structure may comprise arms whose "upper" end is substantially tangent to an "upper" support surface (for the wheel) of a support member; the articulated structure may comprise arms whose "lower" end is substantially tangent to a "lower" (laying) surface of the base;

the articulated structure may comprise arms whose "lower" end comprises means of displacement with low friction on the working surface, such as a wheel or a pad, in particular a wheel mounted rotatively about a substantially coinciding axis of rotation with a hinge axis of the arm and the base, or substantially coincides with a hinge axis of the arm and the drive part;

- The articulated structure may comprise at least two arms, each arm being articulated to the base and a support member, the arms remaining substantially parallel and spaced along the drive axis; this makes it possible to obtain a stable support device while reducing the length of the arms and consequently the height of the arms in the picked configuration;

- The articulated structure may comprise at least three articulated arms to a support member and articulated in pairs along a single axis (common) hinge which is parallel to the base and the laying plane and perpendicular to the axis of displacement the training room; this provides a stable support device while reducing the cross section of the arms, the dimensions of the joints, and therefore the height of the arms in the collected configuration.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for supporting a wheel of a vehicle over a work surface, wherein:

a portion of a deformable or deployable structure comprising at least one bearing surface is engaged between the wheel and the working surface, the deformable structure resting on the working surface and being configured so that at least one bearing surface extends away from the wheel; deforming the deformable structure until the at least one bearing surface bears on the wheel; and

- It stops the deformation of the deformable structure when (or before) the support of the at least one bearing surface on the wheel (ne) compensates for the weight of the wheel.

Generally, the working surface on which the vehicle is based is substantially horizontal, the axis of rotation of the wheel is substantially parallel to the working surface, and the wheel comprises a tire comprising a tread.

The deployable structure can rest on the work surface, directly or via a shim.

It generally causes a progressive deployment of the deployable structure until the (or) surface (s) support come (s) to contact and bear on one or more area (s) of the tread which extinguish (ent) along the lower half-circumference of the wheel.

The deployment of the deployable structure is stopped when - or before - the support on the tread (ne) compensates for the weight of the wheel, and it prevents a subsequent folding of the deployable structure under the effect of the weight of the wheel.

Stopping the deformation of the deformable structure (and stopping deployment of the deployable structure) can be achieved automatically, particularly when the deployment (the deformation) is caused by an actuator (linear or rotary) mu by electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic energy.

This stop may for example result from the triggering of a torque limiting device fitted to a rotary actuator causing the deployment of the deformable structure.

This stop can also be controlled by a control circuit connected to the actuator and to a sensor responsive to the bearing force exerted on the wheel by the (or the) bearing surface (s), as a function of a signal delivered to the control circuit by the sensor. When the deployment is caused by a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator, such as a cylinder, the stop may result from the triggering of a device limiting the pressure of the motor fluid present in the actuator.

Alternatively this stop can be performed by an operator sensitive to an indicator (or sensor or transmitter) sensitive to the support force exerted on the wheel by the at least one bearing surface, or sensitive to the deployment of the structure, especially when the deployment is caused by a "manual" actuator moved by the operator.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a support device which comprises:

a deformable structure comprising at least one support member, arranged to be able to be engaged, at least partially, between the wheel and the working surface, while resting on the working surface, and for at least one device member to support extends away from the wheel;

means for deforming the deformable structure until at least one support member bears under the wheel; and

- Means for stopping the deformation of the deformable structure when - or shortly before - the support of the at least one support member on the wheel (ne) compensates for the weight of the wheel.

The support device may comprise a plurality of support members provided respectively to bear on a plurality of zones or portions of the tread which extend along the lower part of the wheel.

A mechanism for moving the support member (members) is arranged to move the support member (members) from a position remote from the tread to a position of contact and support under the tread.

An actuator is arranged to actuate the displacement mechanism and deform the deformable structure, in particular a actuator having an output member (such as a shaft or shaft) connected to the movement mechanism.

The means for stopping the deformation of the deformable structure may consist of means for limiting the component of the resultant of the pressing forces exerted on the tread which is perpendicular to the working surface and directed towards the wheel, to a value determined which is (slightly) less or substantially equal to the weight of the wheel, so as to prevent the lifting of the wheel.

The support device comprises means for immobilizing the movement mechanism in the contact and support position.

The means for limiting the support on the wheel may comprise a limiting device or indicator force or output torque of the actuator, a stop control circuit of the actuator connected to a sensor responsive to the force support, a limiting device or indicator of the actuator fluid pressure of the actuator, or a mechanical member allowing the displacement of a support member towards the base.

At least one support member may be movably mounted, with respect to the base, in a translational movement perpendicular to the laying plane, in a translation movement parallel to the laying plane, according to a rotational movement whose axis of rotation. is parallel to the laying plane, or according to a combination of these movements.

To ensure the stability of the support device, the smallest dimension (or width) of the base, measured in a plane parallel to the laying plane, is preferably greater than or equal to the width (or thickness) of the tread of the tread. wheel.

For this purpose also, the width of the base can be at least close to the length of articulated arms of the deformable structure, in particular at least substantially equal to the length of the articulated arms of greater length of the deformable structure.

Moreover, the largest dimension (or length) of the base can be at least close to twice the width of the base, in particular greater than or equal to twice the width of the base. For this purpose, the width of each surface or support member, measured along the axis of measurement of the width of the base, may be greater than or equal to the width of the tread.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of mounting (respectively disassembling) a motorcycle wheel in which the wheel is supported as described in the present application, maintaining the axis of rotation of the wheel substantially horizontal, and wherein a shaft is introduced into the hub (respectively a shaft is extracted from the hub) of the wheel.

Other aspects, features, and advantages of the invention appear in the following description which refers to the appended figures and illustrates, without any limiting character, embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a wheel support device above a work surface.

Figure 2 is a schematic side view of another wheel support device above a work surface.

Figure 3 is a schematic side view of a device for adjusting the height of a support plate of a wheel above a working surface, in a compact configuration (of minimum height).

Figure 4 is a schematic side view of the device shown in Figure 3 in which the articulated structure of the device is deployed.

Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view of another device for adjusting the height of a support plate of a wheel above a working surface, in deployed configuration.

Figure 6 is a schematic perspective view of the base of the articulated device illustrated in Figure 5.

FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of the driving part of the articulated device illustrated in FIG. 5. Fig. 8 is a schematic plan view of a mechanical hand-operated linear actuator, two-way actuation (double-acting), in a "neutral" and locked configuration, i.e. resting.

Figures 9 to 15 are schematic side views of other wheel support devices above a work surface.

Figure 16 is a schematic plan view of the actuator shown in Figure 8, in an actuation configuration causing sliding of the output member in a first direction.

Figure 17 is a schematic plan view of the actuator shown in Figure 8, in an actuation configuration causing a sliding of the output member in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

Figure 18 is a schematic plan view of the actuator shown in Figure 8, in an unlocking configuration allowing free sliding of the output member relative to the body of the actuator.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Unless otherwise explicitly or implicitly stated, elements or members - structurally or functionally - identical or similar are designated by identical reference numerals in the different figures.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 in particular, the device 10 serves to support a wheel 1 1 of a vehicle, above and at a distance from a working plane 12 such as the ground or the upper surface of a lifting table, the wheel being suspended from a suspension mechanism of the vehicle.

In Figures 1 to 4 and 9 to 15, the outer contour of a lower portion of the tire of the wheel January 1 is shown in broken lines.

To support the wheel, the device 10 comprises a deployable (or otherwise deformable) structure 13 between a picked configuration such as that illustrated in FIG. 3, in which the structure 13 has a minimum height 14 and is not in contact with the wheel, and an deployed configuration such as those illustrated in Figures 9 and 10, wherein the structure 13 is supported under the wheel by one or more surface (s) of support member (s) (marked 16 to 22, 103, 104, 50 in the figures).

Each support surface may be flat or left, for example in the form of a gutter, and may be smooth or rough, for example teardrop or abrasive.

The minimum height 14 is for example close to 2 to 4 centimeters.

In the picked configuration, the surface (s) of support under the wheel that carries the structure 13 is (found) at maximum distance from the wheel.

Figures 1, 2, and 1-1 through 15 illustrate the expandable structure 13 in an intermediate configuration between the picked up configuration and the deployed configuration.

Each of the devices 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5, 9 to 12, and 14 comprises a base 23 through which the device rests by its laying plane which is substantially coincident with the working surface 12.

As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 6 in particular, the base 23 has an elongate shape along a longitudinal axis 24 and comprises two substantially identical longitudinal members 25, 26, parallel to the axis 24, extending on either side of the axis 24, and connected by three cross members 27 to 29.

Each spar 25, 26 has a first projection 37 traversed by a cylindrical orifice 38, the two respective projections 37 of the two spars being connected by the crosspiece 28, and the two respective orifices 38 of the two spars being aligned along a transverse axis 39 parallel to the laying plane and perpendicular to the axis 24.

Each spar 25, 26 comprises, at its longitudinal end opposite to that comprising the crosspiece 29, a second projection 40 traversed by a cylindrical orifice 41, the two respective projections 40 of the two spars being connected by the cross member 27, and the two orifices 41 respective of the two longitudinal members being aligned along a transverse axis 42 parallel to the axis 39.

Each orifice 38 serves as a housing for a shaft or pivot integral with the respective lower ends of two arms 43 articulated relative to the base along the axis 39, and each orifice 41 serves as a housing for a shaft or pivot integral with the respective lower ends of the two other arms 44 mounted articulated relative to the base along the axis 42, as shown in FIG.

Each of the devices 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5, 9 to 12, and 14 also comprises a driving part 30 which is slidably disposed along the axis 24 relative to the base 23, between the longitudinal members 25, 26 forming a guide structure. or slide for the room 30.

As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 7 in particular, the driving part 30 has an elongated shape along the longitudinal axis 24 of the base.

In the embodiment of FIGS. 5 and 7, the part 30 comprises a first part 31 elongated along the axis 24, in the form of a thin plate, and a second part 32 provided at a longitudinal end of the plate 31 and projecting from the above the plate.

The upper surface of the plate 31 has two groups of five projections 33 in the form of ribs extending parallel to the axis 24.

The ribs 33 of a first group are pierced with identical cylindrical orifices 34 aligned along a first transverse axis 35, and the ribs 33 of a second group are pierced with identical cylindrical orifices 34 aligned along a second transverse axis 36.

Five aligned orifices 34 serve as a housing for a shaft or pivot integral with the respective lower ends of four arms 45 articulated relative to the part 30 along the axis 35, and the five other orifices 34 aligned serve as housing for another shaft or pivot integral with the respective lower ends of four other arms 46 mounted hinged relative to the part 30 along the axis 36, as shown in FIG. As illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 7, the height (or thickness) of the cross member 29 extending at one longitudinal end of the base 23 is greater than that of the longitudinal members 25, 26, and the height (or thickness) of the second portion 32 of the piece 30 is greater than that of the thin ribbed plate 31, 33.

Each of the deployable structures 13 illustrated in Figures 1 to 5, 9 to 11, 14, and 15 includes an articulated structure.

In the embodiment of Figure 5, the articulated structure 13 for adjusting the height of the upper support surface 15 of a plate 50 comprises sixteen arms 43 to 46 identical which are articulated to the plate by their respective vertices and are articulated to the base 23 (for 8 of them) and the drive part 30 (for 8 more of them) by their respective lower ends.

Each of the arms 43 to 46 is pierced in the middle of a cylindrical orifice allowing the mutual articulation of the arms: the four arms 43 articulated to the base by their base along the axis 39 and the four arms 45 articulated to the piece 30 by their base along the axis 35 are articulated along an axis 51 of mutual articulation common to these eight arms, which is transverse and parallel to the laying plane 12.

In the same way, the four arms 44 hinged to the base by their base along the axis 42 and the four arms 46 articulated to the part 30 by their base along the axis 36, are articulated along another axis 52 of mutual articulation. common to these eight arms, which is parallel to the axis 51.

As illustrated in FIG. 5, the lower face of the plate 50 has protruding longitudinal ribs 53.

Each rib 53 is pierced with an oblong aperture 54 for receiving a shaft or transverse pivot allowing the articulation of the tops of the arms 43 to 46 relative to the plate.

These openings 54 also allow sliding of the tops of the arms 43 to 46 along the plate during their pivoting and the displacement (in height) of the plate relative to the base. The sixteen mutually articulated arms 43 to 46 thus form two scissors each comprising eight arms extending transversely spaced, substantially regularly, substantially over the entire width of the plate 50 and substantially over the entire width of the base 23, which provides stability and stability. high mechanical strength to the articulated structure.

The tray and other types of support members under the wheel, the arms, the drive part, and / or the base can be made by molding, for example by injection of a fiber-reinforced plastics material.

To cause the deployment of the structure 13 and the rise of the plate 50, that is to say the distance of the plate relative to the base 23, is brought closer (parallel to the axis 24) the raised portion 32 of the workpiece 30 of the raised cross member 29 of the base 23, so as to "close" the scissors formed by the articulated arms 43 to 46.

Conversely, to cause the "folding" of the structure 13 and the descent of the plate 50, the raised portion 32 is moved away from the part 30 of the raised portion 29 of the base 23, so as to "open" the scissors formed by the arms 43 to 46 articulated.

The minimum height configuration is obtained when the longitudinal axes of the arms 43 to 46 (rectilinear) form, with the laying plane 12, an acute angle of low value, for example an angle of less than five or ten degrees.

In this configuration, the arms and ribs of the tray can be supported on areas of smaller thicknesses of the base and the drive part.

The articulated structure 13 illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 comprises arms 43, 44 articulated to the base 23 by their base and hinged to the plate 50 at their top.

The articulated structure 13 also comprises arms 45, 46 articulated to the drive member 30 by their base and articulated in the middle of the arms 43, 44 by their top. The device 10 comprises a tool 55 serving to slide the drive member 30 relative to the base 23, along a drive axis 56 substantially coincides with the common longitudinal axis 24 of the base and the part 30, and therefore located at a short distance from the laying plane 12.

To do this, the device 10 comprises an actuating rod 57 extending along an axis 58 parallel to the axis 56.

The rod 57 extends through the extension 29 and the tool 55 and is fixed to the extension 32 of the part 30 by a first 57a of its two longitudinal ends, the second end 57b of the rod extending to distance from the tool 55.

The tool 55 is a linear mechanical actuator with manual actuation such as those forming part of pump-jaws or clamp "one-handed" clamp.

The tool 55 comprises a body 55c fixed to the extension 29 of the base 23, a handle 55a and a trigger 55b.

To deploy the structure 13 and bring the plate 50 of the wheel 1 1, an operator can grasp the handle 55a of the tool 55 with one hand and actuate the trigger 55b, so as to exert traction on the rod 57 which causes a mutual approximation of the extensions 29, 32, and therefore a sliding of the part 30 relative to the base 23 according to the arrow 59, this sliding causing a rise of the plate 50 by the action of the articulated arms.

To prevent the lowering of the plate 50 supporting the wheel 1 1 under the effect of the weight of the latter, once the wheel disconnected from the suspension of the vehicle, the tool 55 may include a mechanism prohibiting the sliding of the rod 57 in a in the opposite direction to that of the arrow 59, and therefore immobilizing the mechanism for moving the plate.

To limit the support force of the plate 50 under the wheel 1 1, the operator has a tactile indicator consisting of the sensation of resistance thrown by the trigger 55b when the operator presses the trigger.

For the same purpose, at least part of the actuating member 57 (rod 57) driven by the tool 55 may have an elongation capacity (preferably elastic) such as an axis pulling force 58 exerted by the actuator 55 on the member 57 and sufficient to cause a support of the plate on the wheel exceeding the weight of the wheel, causes the elongation of the member 57 without moving the workpiece 30.

Alternatively, this limitation of the force on the wheel can be operated by a return member connected to the base 23 and the part 30, for example a spring (not shown) resting on the extensions 29, 32 and biased in compression when of the mutual rapprochement 59 of the extensions.

Alternatively, a device for limiting the tensile force exerted by the tool 55 on the rod 57 can be arranged in the body of the tool.

The support members under the wheel of the device 10 illustrated in FIG. 2 are two rollers 16, 17 respectively rotatably mounted at the apices of the two arms 43, 44, along axes of rotation parallel to the axes of articulation of the arms 43 to 46 and perpendicular. on the plane of the figure.

These rollers can abut under the tire of the wheel 1 1 by their respective external surfaces forming the bearing surfaces of the device 10.

In this embodiment, the actuating tool for moving the bearing surfaces comprises a pump 60, in particular an air pump which can be formed by a bellows to be actuated by a foot of the operator or else by a bladder (or "pear") that can be operated by one (only) hand of the operator.

The outlet orifice of the pump 60 is connected to a deformable body 61 sealed by a conduit 62 equipped with a check valve 63.

A bypass of the conduit 62 comprises a drain cock 64. The body 61 may for example have a form of cushion or bellows, has an elongation capacity along the axis 58 of actuation, and is fixed or placed in abutment against the extension 29.

The rod 57 is fixed at its end 57a to the riser 32, passes through the riser 29 and the body 61, and is fixed to an end wall 61a of the body 61 by its second end 57b.

To deploy the structure 13, an operator can actuate the pump 60 with a hand or a foot, so as to cause an increase in the pressure in the body 61 and an elongation of the body 61.

This results in a displacement along the arrow 59 of the wall 61a and a pull on the rod 57 which causes a mutual approximation of the extensions 29, 32, and therefore a sliding of the workpiece 30 relative to the base 23 and a rise of the plateau 50.

The valve 63 prevents the outlet of the fluid contained in the cylinder body 61 via the conduit 62 as long as the operator does not open the emptying valve 64, and thus prevents the pressure of this fluid from falling into the body 61 of the cylinder.

As a result, the rod 57 can then move in the opposite direction of the arrow 59 and that the support members 16, 17 can not lower under the effect of the weight of the wheel January 1.

To limit the bearing force of the rollers 16, 17 under the wheel 1 1, the device 10 comprises a calibrated valve 65 connected to the body 61 and limiting the pressure of the fluid contained in the body 61, so as to limit the effort traction exerted on the rod 57 by the wall 61a of the cylinder.

Alternatively or in addition, the device may comprise an indicator of the pressure prevailing in the cylinder body, in order to allow the operator observing the indicator not to exceed a determined pressure corresponding to the traction force on the rod. which is necessary and sufficient to compensate for the weight of the wheel.

For simplification of Figures 9 to 12, 14, and 15 and the following description, the main components of the mechanism of displacement of the bearing surfaces under the wheel, which are identical or similar to those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 7, are schematically represented by continuous lines, the driving part 30, 32 being represented by broken lines, and the articulations of the arms being represented by small blackened disks.

The actuator 70 of the displacement mechanisms of the bearing surfaces on the wheel illustrated in FIGS. 9 to 12 and 14 may be a mechanical hand cylinder 55 identical or similar to that of FIG. 1, or a pneumatic or hydraulic cylinder 60, 61 identical or similar to that of Figure 2, or a portable rotary tool such as a screwdriver driving in translation a rack forming the actuating member 57, for example.

The actuator 70 connected to the riser 29 may exert traction on a drive member 57 connected to the riser 32, as shown in FIGS. 9 to 12, or may exert traction on the part 30 via a link deformable 71 (such as a strap or cable) which connects the actuator to the part 30, as shown in FIG. 14.

With reference to FIG. 9, the arms 44, 46 are articulated to one another in their middle, the arm 44 being articulated by its base to the base 23 and the arm 46 being articulated by its base to the part 30.

Each arm 44, 46 supports at its top a plate 18, 19 pivotally mounted along an axis of rotation parallel to the axes of articulation of the arms and perpendicular to the plane of the figure.

The pivoting of each tray from a horizontal resting position can be counteracted by a return spring, so that the inclination of the trays can provide the operator with an indication of the bearing force exerted by the trays. under the wheel.

Referring to Figure 10, the device 10 may comprise a support member 20, whose form at rest may be that of a flat plate, which is pivotally mounted at the top of the arm 46 and is slidably mounted or sliding at the top arm 44. By this assembly and a capacity of elastic deformation of the member 20, this member may be arranged to match the shape (in a circular arc) of the portion of the wheel against which the member is supported by the articulated structure 13 when this support force compensates for the weight of the wheel, as shown in FIG.

The observation by the operator of the deformation of the member 20 and / or the spacing between the longitudinal ends of the member 20 and the periphery of the wheel, can thus constitute a visual indicator of the effort of maximum support to apply for not lifting the wheel.

With reference to FIG. 11, the device 10 comprises a first bearing surface on the wheel which is formed by the external surface of a roller 16 which is mounted movably (at the end of an articulated arm 44) in rotation relative to the base 23, the part 30 being movable in translation along the axis 24 relative to the base.

The device 10 comprises a second bearing surface 21 formed by an upper surface of a rigid column 72 fixed to the base 23. The surface 21 is inclined with respect to the laying plane in order to enlarge the zone of contact between the arm ( or column) "fixed" 72 and wheel 1 1.

In this embodiment, the device 10 can be positioned by the operator so that the surface 21 is in contact with the wheel, before deploying the articulated structure 13 carrying the movable bearing surface 16 to bring this surface 16 resting on the wheel.

To facilitate the installation of the device under a wheel, the base and / or the drive member may (may) comprise low friction displacement means on the work surface, such as wheels (marked 99 Figure 5) or shoes (marked 100 Figure 1), in particular pads having a coating promoting their sliding on the work surface.

Referring to Figure 12, the device 10 comprises two columns 72, 73 respectively comprising two surfaces 21, 22 of support at their upper end. Each column 72, 73 is mounted to move in translation along an axis 76, 77 relative to a guide 74, 75, the axes 76, 77 being perpendicular to the laying plane.

The guide 75 is attached to a driving part 30 sliding along a base 23 on which is fixed the guide 74.

An actuator 70 causes the piece 30 to slide, bringing the guides 74, 75 as well as the columns 72, 73 and consequently the surfaces 21, 22 parallel to the laying plane 12 until the surfaces 21 , 22 come to bear on the wheel 1 1.

Two springs 78, 79 resting on the base of the columns 72, 73 respectively, allow the sliding surfaces to be displaced by sliding the columns along the axes 76, 77, towards the base, when the support force of the columns on the wheel exceeds a certain value.

With reference to FIG. 13, the device 10 comprises a structure

13 deformable comprising two cylinders 61 whose body is deformable (expandable) along two axes 80, 81 respectively, which are supplied with fluid under pressure by a pump 60, in particular a manual drive air pump.

Each jack is fixed on a base 23 which rests with its base on the laying plane 12.

Each jack has an upper face 103, 104 forming a bearing surface on an area of the wheel January 1, the surfaces 103, 104 thus being movable in translation perpendicular to the laying plane, along the two axes 80, 81 parallel, in function of the pressure of the fluid contained in the bodies of the cylinders.

Each duct 62 connecting the pump to one of the cylinders is provided with a valve 63 preventing crushing of the cylinder when the wheel rests on the bearing faces 103, 104, as long as an operator does not open a valve 64 fluid drain.

Each cylinder is also provided with a valve 65 limiting the pressure in the cylinder and the force exerted by the cylinder under the wheel. With reference to FIG. 15, the device 10 comprises an articulated structure 13 comprising two first links 91, 93 articulated with respect to the base 23 along transverse axes (perpendicular to the plane of the figure), two second links 90, 92 hinged relative to each other. the plate 50 along transverse axes, the rods 90, 92 being articulated by their respective base at the top of the connecting rods 91, 93 along axes also transverse.

A hand actuator 55 pressed on the articulation of the connecting rods 90, 91 can exert a traction, along an axis 58 parallel to the laying plane, on a link such as a rod 57 whose end 57a is connected to the articulation of the two other connecting rods 92, 93, so as to bring these two joints to one another and to cause the distance of the plate 50 relative to the base 23, until the plate bears against the wheel.

With reference to FIGS. 8 and 16 to 18, the incremental linear actuator 55 (in stepwise advance) comprises two rod-shaped or rod-shaped output members 57 extending along an axis 58 of actuation and which can - or not - to be related, in particular rigidly related.

Each rod 57 can extend through the riser 29 of the base (FIGS. 1 and 2 in particular), and passes through the body 55c of the tool 55: each rod 57 can be fixed to the riser 32 of the part 30 (FIGS. 1 and 2 in particular), by a first 57a of its two longitudinal ends, the second end 57b of each rod extending outside the body 55c which can be attached to the riser 29 of the base.

The actuator 55 comprises a handle 55a rigidly secured to the body 55c, and a lever 55b for actuating the tool by an operator's hand engaged around the handle 55a, which lever is pivotally mounted relative to the body 55c according to an axis 94 perpendicular to the plane of FIGS. 8 and 16 to 18.

The actuator 55 comprises one or more first driving wedges 95, for example in the form of plates or blades, which are engaged around a first rod 57 (that at the bottom of the figures 8 and 16 to 18), and are held in contact with the lever 55b by a spring 96.

The actuator 55 comprises one or more first locking shims 97, for example in the form of plates or blades, which are engaged around the first rod 57 and are kept inclined by a spring 98.

The members 95 to 98 form a first drive mechanism in translation of the first rod 57, along the axis 58, in a first direction (from left to right), by pivoting the lever 55b along the axis 94, which is identical or similar to those described in US Patents 1986166A, GB 1408886A, and US5009134A.

The tool 55 comprises a second handle 155a rigidly secured to the body 55c, and a second lever 155b actuating the tool by a hand of an operator engaged around the handle 155a, which is pivotally mounted relative to the body 55c along an axis 194 parallel to the axis 94.

The actuator 55 comprises one or more second wedges 195 for driving, for example in the form of plates or blades, which are engaged around a second rod 57 (that at the top of FIGS. 8 and 16 to 18), and are held in contact with the lever 155b by a spring 196.

The actuator 55 comprises one or more second locking wedges 197 engaged around the second rod 57 and held inclined by a spring 198.

The members 195 to 198 form a second drive mechanism in translation of the second rod 57, along the axis 58, in a second direction (from right to left) inverse to the first direction, by pivoting the lever 155b along the axis 194, which is identical to the first mechanism 95 to 98.

The actuator 55 further comprises a member 200 for unlocking these two drive mechanisms, for example in the form of a bar or a plate, which is pivotally mounted along an axis "of "Unlocking" parallel and coplanar with the axes 94, 194, and substantially equidistant from these two axes.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 8, the locking wedges 197 are held obliquely thanks to the contact of their base with the top of the drive shims 95 and to the action of the springs 96, 198, the support spring 96 on the shims 95 having a stiffness higher than that of the spring 198 of support on the shims 197. In the same way, the locking shims 97 are held at an angle thanks to the contact of their top with the base of the shims 195 and the action of the springs 196, 98, the spring 196 bearing on the shims 195 having a stiffness higher than that of the spring 98 bearing on the shims 97.

In this position, the two rods 57 are locked in translation. As illustrated in FIG. 16, a pull on the "trigger" 55b of "plateau climb" first provokes an inclination of the drive wedges 95 then their displacement of a few millimeters (for example of the order of 5 to 10 mm) along the axis 58, from left to right, the wedges 95 inclined driving the first rod 57 in their movement. This displacement of the drive shims 95 and the support of the spring 198 allow at the same time to release ("straighten") the locking wedges 197 of the second rod 57, thus allowing the simultaneous and identical translation of the two rods 57. During and at the end of this movement, the locking shims 97 remain inclined which keeps the rod 57 in position when the trigger 55b is released.

The approximation of the support plate towards the wheel can thus be effected, "by pumping" on the handle 55a, 55b, i.e. by several successive actions on the lever 55b.

To move the support plate away from the wheel, for example to finely adjust the support force or to modify the height of the support plate when replacing a wheel whose tire is worn by a wheel equipped with a new tire, the second mechanism 194 to 198 is actuated as previously described for the mechanism 94 to 98, by action on the lever or "trigger" 155b, as shown in Figure 17, so as to move the wedges 195 and rods 57 from the right to the left.

The unlocking member 200 is arranged to be able to bear on the first or the first locking wedges 97, for example by a first of its two longitudinal ends, and to be able to be (simultaneously) pressed on the second or seconds locking wedges 197, for example by a second of its two longitudinal ends, by a rotation of the member 200 (here anti-clockwise).

Thus, by pivoting the member 200, "straighten" the shims 97, 197 which then extend perpendicular to the axis 58, as in the configuration shown in Figure 18, so as to "release" the rods 57 and allow their free sliding along the axis 58.

Thus, according to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a linear actuator comprising two substantially identical drive mechanisms in translation of at least one member 57 of output relative to the body 55c of the actuator, each drive mechanism comprising a lever 55b, 155b, at least one driving piece 95, 195 engaged around the output member and at least one locking piece 97, 197 engaged around the output member, the piece 95, 195 d driving a mechanism cooperating with the locking part (respectively 197, 97) of the other mechanism to allow the incremental translation of the output member in two opposite directions, respectively by action on the two levers, and in particular such an actuator comprising a member 200 for unlocking the drive mechanisms.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a wheel support whose height is adjustable by an incremental linear actuator with manual actuation.

Claims

claims

1 - Device (10) for supporting a wheel (1 1) of a vehicle above a work surface, characterized in that it comprises;

- a base (23) extending along a plane (12) of laying the device on the work surface;

at least one support member (16 to 22, 103, 104, 50) under the wheel;

a mechanism (13) for displacing the support member relative to the base between a first configuration where the support member is remote from the wheel and a second configuration where the support member bears against the wheel, the displacement mechanism comprising a drive piece (30) slidably mounted relative to the base according to a drive axis (56) substantially parallel to the laying plane;

means for immobilizing the movement mechanism in said second configuration; and

an actuator (55, 57, 60, 61, 61a, 70) arranged to cause the drive piece to slide relative to the base along an actuating axis (58) whose distance from the laying plane (12) is greater than the distance separating the laying plane from the driving axis (56).

2 - Device according to claim 1 wherein the distance separating the plane (12) of laying of the axis (58) of actuation is fixed.

3 - Device according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the actuator (55, 57, 60, 61, 61a, 70) bears against a raised portion (29) of the base, in particular fixed or suspended to a portion (29). ) elevated pedestal.

4 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the actuator (55, 57, 60, 61, 61a, 70) is a linear actuator comprising a member (57, 61a) output movable in translation (59 ). 5 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the actuator (55, 57, 60, 61, 61a, 70) is arranged to be driven by a single hand or a single foot of an operator.

6 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the actuator (55) is a mechanical actuator.

7 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the actuator (55) comprises an actuating member (57) extending along the axis (58) of actuation and connected to the workpiece (30). ) and a handle (55a) and a lever or trigger (55b) whose movement relative to the handle causes the actuating member (57) to slide along the axis (58). actuating.

8 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the actuator (55) comprises two substantially identical drive mechanisms in translation of at least one member (57) of output relative to the body (55c) of the actuator, each drive mechanism comprising a lever (55b, 155b), at least one driving piece (95, 195) engaged around the output member and at least one locking piece (97, 197). engaged around the output member, the part (95, 195) for driving a mechanism cooperating with the part (respectively 197, 97) locking the other mechanism to allow the incremental translation of the body of output in two opposite directions, respectively by action on the two levers, the actuator may comprise a member (200) for unlocking the drive mechanisms.

9 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the actuator (60, 61) is a pneumatic actuator.

10 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 or 9 wherein the actuator (60, 61) comprises a body (61) deformable, a member (57, 61a) actuating along the axis (58) connected to the deformable body (61) and to the drive part (30) and a pump (60) connected to the deformable body (61) for delivering a fluid under pressure. 1 1 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the actuator (70) is a portable tool such as a pneumatic or cordless screwdriver.

12 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 1 1 wherein the mechanism of movement of the organ or organs

(16 to 22, 103, 104, 50) comprises an articulated structure (13) comprising arms (43 to 46) or rods articulated (e) s to the base (23) and the piece (30) of driving so as to vary the height of the member or support members relative to the plane (12) of installation during movement of the drive part relative to the base.

13 - Device according to claim 12 wherein the structure (13) articulated comprises arms (43 to 46), one end of which is substantially tangential to a bearing surface (15) of a member (16 to 22, 103, 104 , 50) of support.

14 - Device according to claim 12 or 13 wherein the structure (13) articulated comprises arms (43 to 46), one end of which is substantially tangent to a surface (12) for laying the base (23).

15 - Device according to any one of claims 12 to 14 wherein the structure (13) articulated comprises arms (43 to 46), one end comprises means (99, 100) of low friction movement on the work surface , such as rollers (99) or shoe (100), in particular a wheel (99) rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation substantially coinciding with an articulation axis (39, 42) of the arm and the base (23) or with an axis (35, 36) for articulating the arm and the workpiece (30).

16 - Device according to any one of claims 12 to 15 wherein the structure (13) hinged comprises at least two arms (43, 44) hinged to the base (23) and to a member (16 to 22, 103, 104, 50), the arms (43, 44) being substantially parallel and spaced along the axis (56) of driving.

17 - Device according to any one of claims 12 to 16 wherein the structure (13) articulated comprises at least three arms (43 to 46) articulated to a member (16 to 22, 103, 104, 50) of support and articulated in pairs along a common axis (51, 52) of articulation parallel to the base (23) and perpendicular to the axis (56) moving the drive piece.

18 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 17 which comprises means (65, 78, 79) for limiting the support exerted on the wheel by the member or the support members, perpendicular to the work surface , at a determined value less than or equal to the weight of the wheel.

19 - Device according to claim 18 wherein the means

(65, 78, 79) to limit the support comprise a limiting device or indicator force or output torque of the actuator, a stop control circuit of the actuator connected to a sensor sensitive to the pressing force, a device (65) limiting or indicating the pressure of the driving fluid of the actuator (61), or a member (78, 79) mechanical allowing the displacement of a member (72, 73) of support towards the base.

20 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 19 which comprises a member (72) support under the wheel which is fixedly mounted relative to the base or relative to the drive part.

21 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 20 which comprises a member (72, 73) for support under the wheel which is movably mounted relative to the base (23) in translation perpendicular to the laying plane, in parallel translation at the laying plane, in rotation of axis parallel to the laying plane, or in a combination of these movements.

22 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 21 wherein the width of the base is greater than or equal to the width of the tread of the wheel.

23 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 22 wherein the width of the base is at least close to the length of articulated arms (43 to 46) of the mechanism (13) displacement, at least substantially equal to the length of the articulated arms of greater length of the mechanism (13) of displacement.

24 - Device according to any one of claims 1 to 23 wherein the width of each surface or support member is greater than or equal to the width of the tread of the wheel.

25 - A method for supporting a wheel of a vehicle above and away from a substantially horizontal working surface on which the vehicle is resting, in a position in which the axis of rotation of the wheel is substantially parallel to the surface of the vehicle. wheel having a tire having a tread, in which process:

at least a part of a deployable structure comprising at least one bearing surface is engaged between the wheel and the working surface, the deployable structure resting on the working surface, directly or via a wedge the deployable structure being configured so that the at least one bearing surface extends away from the tread;

deploying the deployable structure until the at least one bearing surface comes into contact with and bears on at least one area of the tread that extends along the lower half-circumference of the wheel ;

the deployment of the deployable structure is stopped when - or before - the support of the at least one bearing surface on the tread compensates for the weight of the wheel; and

- It prevents a subsequent folding of the deployable structure under the effect of the weight of the wheel.

26 - The method of claim 25 wherein stopping the deployment of the deployable structure is achieved by triggering a torque limiter fitted to a rotary actuator causing the deployment of the structure, is controlled by a control circuit connected to the actuator and a sensor responsive to the bearing force exerted on the wheel by the at least one bearing surface, depending on a signal delivered to the control circuit by the sensor, or is produced by triggering a device limiting the pressure of the driving fluid of a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator causing the deployment of the structure.

27 - Method of mounting - respectively disassembling - a wheel (1 1) motorcycle in which the wheel is supported with a device according to any one of claims 1 to 24, maintaining the axis of rotation of the wheel substantially horizontal, and into which a shaft is introduced into the hub - respectively a shaft is extracted from the hub - of the wheel.

28 - Device (10) for supporting a wheel (1 1) of a vehicle characterized in that the height (14) of the device is adjustable by an actuator (55) linear incremental manual actuation.