EP3754621A1 - Installation and method for self-service distribution of materials - Google Patents

Installation and method for self-service distribution of materials Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3754621A1
EP3754621A1 EP20180586.8A EP20180586A EP3754621A1 EP 3754621 A1 EP3754621 A1 EP 3754621A1 EP 20180586 A EP20180586 A EP 20180586A EP 3754621 A1 EP3754621 A1 EP 3754621A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
distribution
hopper
installation
installation according
customer
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
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EP20180586.8A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Philippe Jousseaume
Alexandre Pascale
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Individual
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Individual
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Publication of EP3754621A1 publication Critical patent/EP3754621A1/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F13/00—Coin-freed apparatus for controlling dispensing or fluids, semiliquids or granular material from reservoirs
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F9/00—Details other than those peculiar to special kinds or types of apparatus
    • G07F9/02—Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when empty; Advertising arrangements in coin-freed apparatus
    • G07F9/026—Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when empty; Advertising arrangements in coin-freed apparatus for alarm, monitoring and auditing in vending machines or means for indication, e.g. when empty

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an installation and a method for the self-service distribution of materials or solid matter, in particular of bulk materials such as aggregates, gravel, sand, powder, ground material, wood pellets, cereals, etc.
  • the invention will be more particularly described with regard to bulk materials without packaging, without however being limited thereto, and may be applied to bulk materials which will be packaged in open handle bags of the “big-bag” type, or to products sold individually.
  • An example of use of the installation of the invention is the distribution of building materials, without however being limited thereto.
  • the aim of the invention is therefore to provide a new solution for the distribution of materials or solids, which overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks, in particular allowing a customer to serve himself in self-service, while controlling the desired quantity, or even choosing. its method of distribution such as in bags or in bulk, and if necessary, to provide a distribution of several materials or materials already mixed according to the end use targeted by the customer.
  • material or “material” is understood to mean one or more materials or one or more materials. When it comes to distributing a material or a solid material in bulk, its mass will be essentially greater than one kg, in particular greater than several kilos.
  • upstream and downstream are understood to mean elements with respect to the direction of distribution of the material from upstream to downstream.
  • the installation for the sale and distribution of materials or solid matter is a self-service distribution installation; it comprises at least one pre-distribution hopper containing material to be distributed, distribution means connected to the pre-distribution hopper, and a dialogue interface for a user-client, the dialogue interface being self-service and capable of triggering (after payment or pre-payment) in an automated manner the distribution of the material to the customer from the pre-distribution hopper and via the distribution means.
  • the user-client can go to the installation at any time, use himself and at will, while controlling the quantity of material he is used.
  • the dialogue interface provides a real-time state of the quantity of material being dispensed, and comprises means for stopping the dispensing once the quantity has been reached, in particular as desired by the customer or as maximum authorized. to be distributed in one or more times.
  • the dialogue interface comprises means for printing a paper document such as a ticket and / or means for remote transmission of a distribution report / summary such as an invoice.
  • the installation comprises on the one hand, a so-called storage area which is designed to be inaccessible to the customer and comprises, material storage means, the at least one pre-distribution hopper, and a part distribution means, and on the other hand, another zone which is freely accessible for the customer and which comprises another part of the distribution means and the dialogue interface.
  • the installation comprises at least one storage hopper able to feed the at least one pre-distribution hopper according to a threshold quantity of material, preferably it comprises several storage hoppers storing different materials, each of the storage hoppers being connected. to each of the pre-distribution hoppers.
  • the pre-distribution hopper is arranged immediately below the storage hopper to receive material by gravity or by other feeding means.
  • the installation comprises an automated management system which is connected to the dialogue interface and controls the continuous delivery of the material. from the pre-distribution hopper, and its re-supply after distribution / service.
  • the management system provides information in real time on the quantity of material contained in the pre-distribution hopper (s), this quantity making it possible to identify the quantity which is being distributed and which is to be displayed in real time on the 'dialogue interface, as well as managing the quantity of material to be delivered from the storage hopper to the pre-distribution hopper after distribution to the customer.
  • the pre-distribution hopper is filled before distribution up to a predefined threshold quantity.
  • This threshold quantity corresponds to the maximum quantity which can be distributed unitarily to the distribution means. If the customer wants a quantity greater than the threshold quantity, the self-service distribution to the customer will be done in several installments, that is to say according to multiple volumes, each of which corresponds to the maximum to the threshold quantity. For example, the customer requests 300 kg of product while the threshold quantity of the pre-distribution hopper is 100 kg, it will be served in three times in three volumes of 100 kg.
  • the installation comprises means for weighing the quantity of material present in the pre-distribution hopper, in particular the pre-distribution hopper is fixed to a storage hopper by one or more load cells which constitute weighing means.
  • the pre-distribution hopper can be mounted on one or more load cells, for example each arranged on a support post of the pre-distribution hopper, which thus constitute weighing means.
  • the weighing means continuously supply to a management system or directly to the dialogue interface, the weight remaining in the pre-distribution hopper (s) in operation for the customer's order, so to calculate the difference between a threshold value of the weight of material present in the pre-distribution hopper (s) before each start of distribution, and the remaining weight, this difference corresponding to the quantity of material distributed in real time and displayed for the client on the dialog interface. It is thus understood that when the customer wishes to use a given quantity of material, he triggers the distribution from the dialogue interface. The pre-dispensing hopper is then filled with the predefined threshold quantity, and the initial weight of the amount of material thus filling the pre-dispensing hopper is determined.
  • the pre-distribution hopper pre-distributes material into the distribution means, which distribute this material to the user.
  • the weight of the material distributed to the user corresponds to the difference between this initial weight, corresponding to the threshold value of material weight, and the remaining weight.
  • the user can thus visualize in real time this weight of material distributed and stop the distribution via the dialogue interface when this weight reaches the quantity he wants.
  • the dialogue interface can include a field allowing the user to indicate the authorized total weight of his vehicle, and the management system can interrupt distribution by itself when the weight of material distributed exceeds this. total weight allowed in charge.
  • the installation comprises means for weighing the quantity of material present on the distribution means.
  • the pre-distribution hopper can be a material storage hopper or an intermediate hopper between a material storage hopper and the distribution means. It is understood that in this embodiment, the management system ensures the filling of the dispensing means before dispensing up to a predefined threshold quantity, the belt then being unweighted during dispensing to allow the user to view the weight of pre-dispensed material.
  • the distribution means comprise at least one conveyor such as an optionally vibrating belt, an endless screw, or a helmet (for a hopper), and preferably a terminal means channeling the distribution of the funnel type for pouring directly into a container.
  • This container can be a vehicle of the trailer type.
  • the installation further comprises means for detecting the height of the customer's container in which the material will be distributed, such as a trailer, or other container, and means for adapting the height of the container. free termination of the distribution means as a function of the height detected, in particular the distribution means comprising a conveyor, the inclination of which can be adapted as a function of the height detected.
  • the installation comprises monitoring means such as presence detection sensors and / or cameras, able to secure the area where the customer and his vehicle are located for safe self-service distribution, in particular. vis-à-vis the distribution means which deliver the material in bulk and by gravity from a certain height.
  • monitoring means such as presence detection sensors and / or cameras
  • the installation 1 of the invention illustrated in the figures is a self-service distribution installation for materials.
  • the installation 1 is more particularly described for materials in the form of bulk such as aggregates, gravel, sand, cement, powder, ground material, wood pellets, cereals, etc.
  • the storage of materials is located in an area 12 inaccessible to the customer, the distribution of material to the customer being done in an automated manner by routing from the storage area 12 to the distribution area 10.
  • the distribution installation 1 comprises at least one pre-distribution hopper 2, preferably at least one storage hopper 3 which is connected upstream to the pre-distribution hopper 2, distribution means 4 to convey the quantity of material to be delivered from the pre-distribution hopper 2 to the distribution zone 10, weighing means 5 to calculate the quantity of material to be distributed, and the dialogue interface 11 dedicated to the customer in order that in an automated way, the customer chooses the material and pays for the distribution of the material.
  • the stopping of the distribution is commanded by the customer at any time from the dialogue interface 11 when the desired quantity is reached.
  • the installation 1 comprises an automated system for centralized management 6 of all the equipment of the installation which can be controlled remotely, this automated management system being connected to the dialogue interface 11.
  • the automated management system 6 is located in a room separate from the terminal housing the dialogue interface 11.
  • the installation can include several dialogue interfaces 11 and distribution zones 10, several customers and vehicles can thus park and simultaneously obtain a distribution.
  • the dialogue interface 11 is in a zone of free access close to the distribution zone and location 10 of the vehicle.
  • the dialogue interface 11 is remote from the distribution zone 10 so that the user-client is not in the immediate vicinity of the distribution means 4 for security reasons. Indeed, the bulk material is intended to fall from a certain height directly into a container of the trailer type.
  • the distribution means 4 are associated with each of the pre-distribution hoppers 2 and travel through the storage zone 12 of the store inaccessible to the customer, and in the free access zone 10 to the customer's vehicle.
  • Installation 1 stores different types of materials that are offered for sale on the dialog interface 11.
  • the installation 1 is above all designed for the distribution of bulk material intended to be delivered without packaging or else in open bags of the rubble bag type, also called “big-bag”. However, it is not excluded to design the installation by integrating into the distribution means 4 automated means which would be able to fetch, in the storage zone 12, materials in packaged form or in the form of individual parts. , and routing them automatically to the distribution area 10 to the customer.
  • the installation 1 comprises a plurality of storage hoppers 3 which each contain a material in large quantity.
  • Each storage hopper preferably has a different material to provide the expected variety of sales.
  • the installation 1 comprises a plurality of pre-distribution hoppers 2, each being connected to a respective storage hopper 3, in particular by being arranged immediately below a storage hopper 3.
  • the purpose of the pre-distribution hopper 2 is to temporarily store a much smaller quantity of material than the storage hopper 3, and serves as a supply tank for the distribution of the material to be delivered to the customer.
  • a storage hopper 3 is capable of storing approximately one tonne of material while the associated pre-distribution hopper 2 provides a storage volume of at most a hundred kilos.
  • the pre-distribution hopper 2 is filled according to a volume / a threshold quantity which corresponds to the maximum quantity of the hopper that can be weighed, and if necessary distributed in several times to the customer.
  • the weighing means 5 participate in the calculation of the quantity of material to be dispensed, that is to say of the quantity of material to be extracted in real time from each pre-dispensing hopper 2.
  • the weighing means 5 comprise load cells which are fixed to the lower end of the storage hopper 3 and carry the pre-distribution hopper 2. The weighing means 5 make it possible to weigh the pre-distribution hopper 2 and to calculate the weight of material that is there in said distribution hopper.
  • the weighing means 5 continuously supply the management system 6 with the weight remaining in said pre-distribution hopper 2.
  • the management system 6 deduces the quantity of material which is distributed as and when (in real time) by calculating the difference between the value of the threshold volume and the value of the weight of material remaining in the pre-distribution hopper 2. This quantity of material delivered by the pre-distribution hopper 2 is displayed in real time on the dialogue interface 11 .
  • the distribution means 4 include, for example, conveyor belts, worms, or helmets, 40, 41 which are located under each of the pre-distribution hoppers 2 and which run through the storage area 12 to end in the storage area. distribution 10.
  • the distribution means 4 comprise in the distribution zone 10 at the free end of the terminal conveyor 41, a distribution hopper 42 making it possible to discharge the material in a targeted manner in a well-defined area.
  • the opening and closing of the distribution hopper is further controlled by the management system 6 to distribute the material safely.
  • the distribution means 4 in the distribution zone 10 are adjustable in height, in particular the terminal conveyor 41 is adjustable in height, to adapt to the height of the vehicle in which the material is to be distributed.
  • the height of the distribution hopper 42 is thus adjustable.
  • the installation 1 comprises monitoring means 7 intended for the safety of persons in the immediate vicinity of the distribution hopper 42.
  • These monitoring means 7 comprise, for example, presence detection sensors and / or connected cameras.
  • the management system 6 only authorizes distribution from the distribution hopper 42 if all the conditions of safety are met, in particular verification of the appropriate height of fall of the material from the distribution hopper 42 into the vehicle, verification of the absence of the presence of an individual within a determined perimeter around the distribution hopper 42, etc. .
  • Installation 1 of the figure 1 shows an additional hopper 43 located in the area of the store 12 inaccessible to customers, so that the installation can also be used by employees of the materials store.
  • the automated centralized management system 6 controls all the equipment of the installation.
  • the management system 6 also receives all the data from sensors, cameras, and is able to process these data to generate automated actions if necessary.
  • the customer positions his vehicle or another container in the distribution zone 10, preferably in a delimited location by positioning his trailer to the right of the distribution hopper 42. He goes to the interactive terminal integrating the dialogue interface 11.
  • Stopping the distribution could also be done automatically without the customer pressing a stop button, for example after a certain quantity of material has been delivered, this quantity having been identified beforehand by the dialogue interface. .
  • the customer will have been able to enter his payment information prior to his arrival on the site of the installation (for example via the Internet), and to benefit from a means / identification code able to be recognized by the dialog interface 11 to ensure distribution.
  • the customer may only use one or more maximum quantities which each correspond to the maximum quantity (threshold) contained in the pre-distribution hopper 2.
  • the means 60 for controlling the weight of the pre-distribution hopper 2 transmit in real time to the dialogue interface 11, information on the quantity of material which is being distributed. This information of the quantity of material being dispensed is displayed on the dialogue interface 11 so that the customer checks the quantity.
  • the distribution stop having been triggered at the level of the dialogue interface 11, the stop information is then transmitted in real time to the management system 6 which triggers the closing of the pre-distribution hopper 2. During this time, the end of the quantity of material present on the conveyor or conveyors continues its path to the distribution hopper 42.
  • the distribution means 4 stop once after all the material has been dispensed.
  • the management system 6 has triggered its replenishment from the pre-storage hopper 3 until the threshold value is reached by weight. A new distribution to the dialog interface can then be initiated.
  • the invention therefore enables any user in an extremely simple and rapid manner to purchase self-service building materials, and to verify in real time the quantity which is distributed.

Abstract

Installation (1) de vente et de distribution de matériaux ou de matière solide, notamment en vrac, comportant au moins une trémie de pré-distribution (2) contenant du matériau de construction à distribuer, des moyens de distribution (4) reliés à la trémie de pré-distribution (2), et une interface de dialogue (11) pour un utilisateur-client, l'interface de dialogue étant en libre-service et apte à déclencher de manière automatisée la distribution du matériau à l'utilisateur depuis la trémie de pré-distribution (2) et via les moyens de distribution (4).Installation (1) for the sale and distribution of materials or solid matter, in particular in bulk, comprising at least one pre-distribution hopper (2) containing construction material to be distributed, distribution means (4) connected to the pre-distribution hopper (2), and a dialog interface (11) for a user-customer, the dialog interface being self-service and able to automatically trigger the distribution of the material to the user from the pre-distribution hopper (2) and via the distribution means (4).

Description

L'invention concerne une installation et un procédé de distribution en libre-service de matériaux ou de matière solide, en particulier de matériaux en vrac tels que granulats, graviers, sable, poudre, matière broyée, granulés de bois, céréales, etc.The invention relates to an installation and a method for the self-service distribution of materials or solid matter, in particular of bulk materials such as aggregates, gravel, sand, powder, ground material, wood pellets, cereals, etc.

L'invention sera plus particulièrement décrite en regard de matériaux en vrac sans conditionnement, sans toutefois y être limitée, et pourra s'appliquer à des matériaux en vrac qui seront conditionnés sous sacs à anse ouverts du type « big-bag », ou à des produits vendus à l'unité. Un exemple d'utilisation de l'installation de l'invention est la distribution de matériaux de construction, sans y être toutefois limitée.The invention will be more particularly described with regard to bulk materials without packaging, without however being limited thereto, and may be applied to bulk materials which will be packaged in open handle bags of the “big-bag” type, or to products sold individually. An example of use of the installation of the invention is the distribution of building materials, without however being limited thereto.

Aujourd'hui, les matériaux ou matières premières solides, tels que granulats, sable, sciure, ciment, goudron, etc., sont vendus en sacs fermés de contenance prédéfinie ou bien par chargement dans une remorque sous le contrôle d'un vendeur. Il n'est ainsi pas possible pour le client de se servir seul et à volonté. De plus, le client est tributaire des horaires d'ouverture du magasin. Par ailleurs, le chargement sous contrôle d'un vendeur ne permet pas au client de contrôler de façon précise la quantité du matériau distribué.Today, solid materials or raw materials, such as aggregates, sand, sawdust, cement, tar, etc., are sold in closed bags of predefined capacity or by loading into a trailer under the control of a seller. It is thus not possible for the customer to serve himself and at will. In addition, the customer is dependent on the opening hours of the store. Furthermore, loading under the control of a seller does not allow the customer to precisely control the quantity of material distributed.

L'invention a donc pour but de proposer une nouvelle solution de distribution de matériaux ou matières solides, qui pallie les inconvénients précités, en particulier permettant à un client de se servir en libre-service, tout en contrôlant la quantité souhaitée, voire même choisir son mode de distribution tel que dans des sacs ou bien en vrac, et si besoin, procurer une distribution de plusieurs matériaux ou matières déjà mélangés en fonction de l'utilisation finale visée par le client.The aim of the invention is therefore to provide a new solution for the distribution of materials or solids, which overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks, in particular allowing a customer to serve himself in self-service, while controlling the desired quantity, or even choosing. its method of distribution such as in bags or in bulk, and if necessary, to provide a distribution of several materials or materials already mixed according to the end use targeted by the customer.

On entend dans la suite de la description par « matériau» ou « matière », un ou plusieurs matériaux ou une ou plusieurs matières. Lorsqu'il s'agira de distribuer un matériau ou une matière solide en vrac, sa masse sera essentiellement supérieure au kg, en particulier supérieur à plusieurs kilos.In the remainder of the description, “material” or “material” is understood to mean one or more materials or one or more materials. When it comes to distributing a material or a solid material in bulk, its mass will be essentially greater than one kg, in particular greater than several kilos.

Dans la suite de la description, les termes « amont », « aval », s'entendent en qualifiant des éléments par rapport au sens de distribution du matériau d'amont en aval.In the remainder of the description, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” are understood to mean elements with respect to the direction of distribution of the material from upstream to downstream.

Selon l'invention, l'installation de vente et de distribution de matériaux ou de matière solide est une installation de distribution en libre-service ; elle comporte au moins une trémie de pré-distribution contenant du matériau à distribuer, des moyens de distribution reliés à la trémie de pré-distribution, et une interface de dialogue pour un utilisateur-client, l'interface de dialogue étant en libre-service et apte à déclencher (après paiement ou pré-paiement) de manière automatisée la distribution du matériau au client depuis la trémie de pré-distribution et via les moyens de distribution.According to the invention, the installation for the sale and distribution of materials or solid matter is a self-service distribution installation; it comprises at least one pre-distribution hopper containing material to be distributed, distribution means connected to the pre-distribution hopper, and a dialogue interface for a user-client, the dialogue interface being self-service and capable of triggering (after payment or pre-payment) in an automated manner the distribution of the material to the customer from the pre-distribution hopper and via the distribution means.

Ainsi, l'utilisateur-client peut se rendre à tous moments sur l'installation, se servir seul et à volonté, tout en contrôlant lui-même la quantité de matériau dont il est servi.Thus, the user-client can go to the installation at any time, use himself and at will, while controlling the quantity of material he is used.

Selon une caractéristique, l'interface de dialogue fournit un état en temps réel de la quantité de matériau en cours de distribution, et comporte des moyens pour stopper la distribution une fois la quantité atteinte, en particulier telle que voulue par le client ou maximale autorisée à être distribuée en une ou plusieurs fois.According to one characteristic, the dialogue interface provides a real-time state of the quantity of material being dispensed, and comprises means for stopping the dispensing once the quantity has been reached, in particular as desired by the customer or as maximum authorized. to be distributed in one or more times.

L'interface de dialogue comporte des moyens pour imprimer un document papier tel qu'un ticket et/ou des moyens de transmission à distance d'un rapport/récapitulatif de distribution tel qu'une facture.The dialogue interface comprises means for printing a paper document such as a ticket and / or means for remote transmission of a distribution report / summary such as an invoice.

Selon une autre caractéristique, l'installation comporte d'une part, une zone dite de stockage qui est conçue en étant inaccessible au client et comprend, des moyens de stockage de matériau, la au moins une trémie de pré-distribution, et une partie des moyens de distribution, et d'autre part, une autre zone qui est de libre accès pour le client et qui comprend une autre partie des moyens de distribution et l'interface de dialogue.According to another characteristic, the installation comprises on the one hand, a so-called storage area which is designed to be inaccessible to the customer and comprises, material storage means, the at least one pre-distribution hopper, and a part distribution means, and on the other hand, another zone which is freely accessible for the customer and which comprises another part of the distribution means and the dialogue interface.

Avantageusement, l'installation comporte au moins une trémie de stockage apte à alimenter la au moins une trémie de pré-distribution selon une quantité seuil de matériau, de préférence elle comporte plusieurs trémies de stockage stockant différents matériaux, chacune des trémies de stockage étant reliée à chacune des trémies de pré-distribution. En particulier, la trémie de pré-distribution est agencée immédiatement en-dessous de la trémie de stockage pour recevoir du matériau par gravité ou par un autre moyen d'alimentation.Advantageously, the installation comprises at least one storage hopper able to feed the at least one pre-distribution hopper according to a threshold quantity of material, preferably it comprises several storage hoppers storing different materials, each of the storage hoppers being connected. to each of the pre-distribution hoppers. In particular, the pre-distribution hopper is arranged immediately below the storage hopper to receive material by gravity or by other feeding means.

Selon une autre caractéristique, l'installation comporte un système automatisé de gestion qui est relié à l'interface de dialogue et contrôle la délivrance en continu du matériau depuis la trémie de pré-distribution, et sa ré-alimentation après distribution/service. Le système de gestion fournit en temps réel des informations sur la quantité de matériau contenu dans la ou les trémies de pré-distribution, cette quantité permettant d'identifier la quantité qui est en cours de distribution et qui est à afficher en temps réel sur l'interface de dialogue, ainsi que de gérer la quantité de matériau à délivrer depuis la trémie de stockage à la trémie de pré-distribution après distribution au client.According to another characteristic, the installation comprises an automated management system which is connected to the dialogue interface and controls the continuous delivery of the material. from the pre-distribution hopper, and its re-supply after distribution / service. The management system provides information in real time on the quantity of material contained in the pre-distribution hopper (s), this quantity making it possible to identify the quantity which is being distributed and which is to be displayed in real time on the 'dialogue interface, as well as managing the quantity of material to be delivered from the storage hopper to the pre-distribution hopper after distribution to the customer.

Avantageusement, la trémie de pré-distribution est remplie avant distribution jusqu'à une quantité seuil prédéfinie. Cette quantité seuil correspond à la quantité maximale qui peut être distribuée de manière unitaire aux moyens de distribution. Si le client souhaite une quantité supérieure à la quantité seuil, la distribution en libre-service au client se fera en plusieurs fois, c'est-à-dire selon des volumes multiples dont chacun correspond au maximum à la quantité seuil. Par exemple, le client demande 300 kg de produit tandis que la quantité seuil de la trémie de pré-distribution est de 100 kg, il sera servi en trois fois selon trois volumes de 100 kg.Advantageously, the pre-distribution hopper is filled before distribution up to a predefined threshold quantity. This threshold quantity corresponds to the maximum quantity which can be distributed unitarily to the distribution means. If the customer wants a quantity greater than the threshold quantity, the self-service distribution to the customer will be done in several installments, that is to say according to multiple volumes, each of which corresponds to the maximum to the threshold quantity. For example, the customer requests 300 kg of product while the threshold quantity of the pre-distribution hopper is 100 kg, it will be served in three times in three volumes of 100 kg.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique, l'installation comporte des moyens de pesée de la quantité de matériau présente dans la trémie de pré-distribution, en particulier la trémie de pré-distribution est fixée à une trémie de stockage par un ou plusieurs pesons qui constituent des moyens de pesée. En variante, la trémie de pré-distribution peut être montée sur un ou plusieurs pesons, par exemple agencés chacun sur un poteau de support de la trémie de pré-distribution, qui constituent ainsi des moyens de pesée.According to yet another characteristic, the installation comprises means for weighing the quantity of material present in the pre-distribution hopper, in particular the pre-distribution hopper is fixed to a storage hopper by one or more load cells which constitute weighing means. As a variant, the pre-distribution hopper can be mounted on one or more load cells, for example each arranged on a support post of the pre-distribution hopper, which thus constitute weighing means.

Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, les moyens de pesée fournissent en continue à un système de gestion ou directement à l'interface de dialogue, le poids restant dans la ou les trémies de pré-distribution en fonctionnement pour la commande du client, de façon à calculer la différence entre une valeur seuil de poids de matériau présent dans la ou les trémie de pré-distribution avant chaque début de distribution, et le poids restant, cette différence correspondant à la quantité de matériau distribué en temps réel et s'affichant pour le client sur l'interface de dialogue. On comprend ainsi que lorsque le client souhaite se servir une quantité donnée de matériau, il déclenche la distribution depuis l'interface de dialogue. La trémie de pré-distribution est alors remplie avec la quantité seuil prédéfinie, et le poids initial de la quantité de matériau remplissant ainsi la trémie de pré-distribution est déterminée. Puis, la trémie de pré-distribution pré-distribue du matériau dans les moyens de distribution, lesquels distribuent ce matériau à l'utilisateur. On comprend ainsi que le poids du matériau distribué à l'utilisateur correspond à la différence entre ce poids initial, correspondant à la valeur seuil de poids de matériau, et le poids restant. L'utilisateur peut ainsi visualiser en temps réel ce poids de matériau distribué et arrêter la distribution via l'interface de dialogue lors ce poids atteint la quantité qu'il souhaite. Avantageusement, l'interface de dialogue peut comprendre un champ permettant à l'utilisateur d'indiquer le poids total autorisé en charge de son véhicule, et le système de gestion peut interrompre de lui-même la distribution lorsque le poids de matériau distribué excède ce poids total autorisé en charge.In a preferred embodiment, the weighing means continuously supply to a management system or directly to the dialogue interface, the weight remaining in the pre-distribution hopper (s) in operation for the customer's order, so to calculate the difference between a threshold value of the weight of material present in the pre-distribution hopper (s) before each start of distribution, and the remaining weight, this difference corresponding to the quantity of material distributed in real time and displayed for the client on the dialog interface. It is thus understood that when the customer wishes to use a given quantity of material, he triggers the distribution from the dialogue interface. The pre-dispensing hopper is then filled with the predefined threshold quantity, and the initial weight of the amount of material thus filling the pre-dispensing hopper is determined. Then, the pre-distribution hopper pre-distributes material into the distribution means, which distribute this material to the user. It will thus be understood that the weight of the material distributed to the user corresponds to the difference between this initial weight, corresponding to the threshold value of material weight, and the remaining weight. The user can thus visualize in real time this weight of material distributed and stop the distribution via the dialogue interface when this weight reaches the quantity he wants. Advantageously, the dialogue interface can include a field allowing the user to indicate the authorized total weight of his vehicle, and the management system can interrupt distribution by itself when the weight of material distributed exceeds this. total weight allowed in charge.

Dans un autre mode de réalisation de l'invention, l'installation comporte des moyens de pesée de la quantité de matériau présente sur les moyens de distribution. Le cas échéant, la trémie de pré-distribution peut être une trémie de stockage du matériau ou une trémie intermédiaire entre une trémie de stockage du matériau et les moyens de distribution. On comprend que dans ce mode de réalisation, le système de gestion assure le remplissage des moyens de distribution avant la distribution jusqu'à une quantité seuil prédéfinie, le tapis étant alors dé-pesé lors de la distribution pour permettre à l'utilisateur de visualiser le poids de matériau pré-distribué.In another embodiment of the invention, the installation comprises means for weighing the quantity of material present on the distribution means. Where appropriate, the pre-distribution hopper can be a material storage hopper or an intermediate hopper between a material storage hopper and the distribution means. It is understood that in this embodiment, the management system ensures the filling of the dispensing means before dispensing up to a predefined threshold quantity, the belt then being unweighted during dispensing to allow the user to view the weight of pre-dispensed material.

De préférence, les moyens de distribution comportent au moins un convoyeur tel qu'un tapis éventuellement vibrant, une vis sans fin, ou un casque (pour trémie), et de préférence un moyen terminal canalisant la distribution du type entonnoir pour déverser directement dans un contenant. Ce contenant peut être un véhicule du type remorque.Preferably, the distribution means comprise at least one conveyor such as an optionally vibrating belt, an endless screw, or a helmet (for a hopper), and preferably a terminal means channeling the distribution of the funnel type for pouring directly into a container. This container can be a vehicle of the trailer type.

Dans une réalisation préférée, l'installation comporte en outre des moyens de détection de la hauteur du contenant du client dans lequel sera distribué le matériau, tel qu'une remorque, ou autre contenant, et des moyens permettant d'adapter la hauteur de la terminaison libre des moyens de distribution en fonction de la hauteur détectée, en particulier les moyens de distribution comprenant un convoyeur dont l'inclinaison est adaptable en fonction de la hauteur détectée.In a preferred embodiment, the installation further comprises means for detecting the height of the customer's container in which the material will be distributed, such as a trailer, or other container, and means for adapting the height of the container. free termination of the distribution means as a function of the height detected, in particular the distribution means comprising a conveyor, the inclination of which can be adapted as a function of the height detected.

Avantageusement, l'installation comporte des moyens de surveillance tels que des capteurs de détection de présence et/ou des caméras, aptes à sécuriser la zone où se trouve le client et son véhicule pour une distribution en libre-service en toute sécurité, en particulier vis-à-vis des moyens de distribution qui délivrent en vrac et par gravité depuis une certaine hauteur le matériau.Advantageously, the installation comprises monitoring means such as presence detection sensors and / or cameras, able to secure the area where the customer and his vehicle are located for safe self-service distribution, in particular. vis-à-vis the distribution means which deliver the material in bulk and by gravity from a certain height.

L'invention porte également sur procédé de distribution de matériau de construction en libre-service, en particulier à l'aide de l'installation précitée de l'invention, comportant les étapes suivantes :

  • positionnement par un utilisateur d'un contenant dans une zone délimitée et de libre accès,
  • communication par l'utilisateur avec une interface de dialogue en libre-service,
  • identification par l'interface de dialogue de différents paramètres liés à l'utilisateur dont la nature et la quantité de matériau désiré, et de préférence le poids total autorisé pour le contenant tel que le poids total autorisé en charge pour un véhicule du type remorque,
  • une fois l'identification effectuée, début de la distribution de manière automatisée, de préférence en commandant en outre à partir d'un bouton « départ » qu'actionne l'utilisateur et/ou d'un bouton de validation de la hauteur de distribution dans le contenant,
  • distribution automatisée selon un acheminement du matériau directement dans le contenant (depuis une zone de stockage inaccessible pour l'utilisateur) ;
  • arrêt automatisé de la distribution, notamment lorsqu'une valeur pré-renseignée par l'utilisateur est atteinte ou via l'actionnement par l'utilisateur d'un bouton « arrêt ».
The invention also relates to a method of distributing building material in self-service, in particular using the aforementioned installation of the invention, comprising the following steps:
  • positioning by a user of a container in a delimited and free access area,
  • communication by the user with a self-service dialogue interface,
  • identification by the dialogue interface of various parameters linked to the user, including the nature and quantity of material desired, and preferably the total authorized weight for the container such as the total authorized laden weight for a vehicle of the trailer type,
  • once the identification has been made, start of the dispensing in an automated manner, preferably also by commanding from a "start" button that the user actuates and / or a button for validating the dispensing height in the container,
  • automated distribution by routing the material directly into the container (from a storage area inaccessible to the user);
  • automated stopping of dispensing, in particular when a value pre-entered by the user is reached or via the actuation by the user of a “stop” button.

La présente invention est maintenant décrite à l'aide d'exemples uniquement illustratifs et nullement limitatifs de la portée de l'invention, et à partir des illustrations jointes.

  • [Fig. 1] représente une vue en perspective d'un exemple d'agencement d'une installation de distribution en libre-service de matériau de construction.
  • [Fig. 2] est un synoptique du fonctionnement de l'installation selon l'invention.
The present invention will now be described with the aid of examples which are only illustrative and in no way limitative of the scope of the invention, and from the accompanying illustrations.
  • [ Fig. 1 ] shows a perspective view of an exemplary arrangement of a self-service building material distribution facility.
  • [ Fig. 2 ] is a block diagram of the operation of the installation according to the invention.

L'installation 1 de l'invention illustrée sur les figures est une installation de distribution en libre-service de matériaux. L'installation 1 est plus particulièrement décrite pour des matériaux se présentant sous forme de vrac tels que des granulats, graviers, sable, ciment, poudre, matière broyée, granulés de bois, céréales, etc.The installation 1 of the invention illustrated in the figures is a self-service distribution installation for materials. The installation 1 is more particularly described for materials in the form of bulk such as aggregates, gravel, sand, cement, powder, ground material, wood pellets, cereals, etc.

Il s'agit pour un client-utilisateur de garer son véhicule ou d'agencer son contenant dans une zone dédiée d'accès à la distribution et/ou au chargement 10, de se présenter à une interface de dialogue en libre-service 11 du type borne, de saisir au moins le matériau choisi, éventuellement la quantité désirée selon le mode de fonctionnement, et payer pour que la distribution du matériau soit initiée de manière automatisée. Le stockage des matériaux est situé dans une zone 12 inaccessible pour le client, la distribution de matériau au client se faisant de manière automatisée par l'acheminement depuis la zone de stockage 12 à la zone de distribution 10.For a customer-user, this involves parking his vehicle or arranging its container in a dedicated area for access to distribution and / or loading 10, to go to a self-service dialogue interface 11 of the terminal type, enter at least the material chosen, possibly the desired quantity depending on the operating mode, and pay for the distribution of the material to be initiated in an automated manner. The storage of materials is located in an area 12 inaccessible to the customer, the distribution of material to the customer being done in an automated manner by routing from the storage area 12 to the distribution area 10.

Selon l'invention, l'installation de distribution 1 comporte au moins une trémie de pré-distribution 2, de préférence au moins une trémie de stockage 3 qui est reliée en amont à la trémie de pré-distribution 2, des moyens de distribution 4 pour acheminer la quantité de matériau à délivrer depuis la trémie de pré-distribution 2 jusqu'à la zone de distribution 10, des moyens de pesée 5 pour calculer la quantité de matériau à distribuer, et l'interface de dialogue 11 dédiée au client afin que de manière automatisée, le client choisisse le matériau et paie pour obtenir la distribution du matériau.According to the invention, the distribution installation 1 comprises at least one pre-distribution hopper 2, preferably at least one storage hopper 3 which is connected upstream to the pre-distribution hopper 2, distribution means 4 to convey the quantity of material to be delivered from the pre-distribution hopper 2 to the distribution zone 10, weighing means 5 to calculate the quantity of material to be distributed, and the dialogue interface 11 dedicated to the customer in order that in an automated way, the customer chooses the material and pays for the distribution of the material.

De préférence, l'arrêt de la distribution est commandé par le client à tout moment depuis l'interface de dialogue 11 lorsque la quantité voulue est atteinte. En outre, l'installation 1 comporte un système automatisé de gestion centralisée 6 de l'ensemble des équipements de l'installation qui sont pilotables à distance, ce système automatisé de gestion étant relié à l'interface de dialogue 11. De préférence, le système automatisé de gestion 6 est situé dans un local distinct de la borne accueillant l'interface de dialogue 11.Preferably, the stopping of the distribution is commanded by the customer at any time from the dialogue interface 11 when the desired quantity is reached. In addition, the installation 1 comprises an automated system for centralized management 6 of all the equipment of the installation which can be controlled remotely, this automated management system being connected to the dialogue interface 11. Preferably, the automated management system 6 is located in a room separate from the terminal housing the dialogue interface 11.

Bien entendu, l'installation peut comprendre plusieurs interfaces de dialogue 11 et zones de distribution 10, plusieurs clients et véhicules peuvent ainsi se garer et obtenir simultanément une distribution.Of course, the installation can include several dialogue interfaces 11 and distribution zones 10, several customers and vehicles can thus park and simultaneously obtain a distribution.

L'interface de dialogue 11 est dans une zone de libre accès à proximité de la zone de distribution et d'emplacement 10 du véhicule. De préférence, l'interface de dialogue 11 est à distance de la zone de distribution 10 afin que l'utilisateur-client ne soit pas à proximité immédiate des moyens de distribution 4 pour des raisons de sécurité. En effet, le matériau en vrac est destiné à tomber d'une certaine hauteur directement dans un contenant du type remorque.The dialogue interface 11 is in a zone of free access close to the distribution zone and location 10 of the vehicle. Preferably, the dialogue interface 11 is remote from the distribution zone 10 so that the user-client is not in the immediate vicinity of the distribution means 4 for security reasons. Indeed, the bulk material is intended to fall from a certain height directly into a container of the trailer type.

Les moyens de distribution 4 sont associés à chacune des trémies de pré-distribution 2 et cheminent, dans la zone de stockage 12 du magasin inaccessible au client, et dans la zone de libre accès 10 jusqu'au véhicule du client.The distribution means 4 are associated with each of the pre-distribution hoppers 2 and travel through the storage zone 12 of the store inaccessible to the customer, and in the free access zone 10 to the customer's vehicle.

L'installation 1 stocke différents types de matériaux qui sont proposés à la vente sur l'interface de dialogue 11.Installation 1 stores different types of materials that are offered for sale on the dialog interface 11.

L'installation 1 est avant tout conçue pour de la distribution de matériau en vrac destiné à être délivré sans conditionnement ou bien dans des sacs ouverts du type sacs à gravats, nommés encore « big-bag ». Toutefois, il n'est pas exclu de concevoir l'installation en intégrant aux moyens de distribution 4 des moyens automatisés qui seraient aptes à aller chercher dans la zone de stockage 12, des matériaux sous forme conditionnée ou sous forme de pièces à l'unité, et de les acheminer de manière automatisée jusqu'à la zone de distribution 10 auprès du client.The installation 1 is above all designed for the distribution of bulk material intended to be delivered without packaging or else in open bags of the rubble bag type, also called “big-bag”. However, it is not excluded to design the installation by integrating into the distribution means 4 automated means which would be able to fetch, in the storage zone 12, materials in packaged form or in the form of individual parts. , and routing them automatically to the distribution area 10 to the customer.

Pour les matériaux en vrac, l'installation 1 comporte une pluralité de trémies de stockage 3 qui contiennent chacune un matériau en grande quantité. Chaque trémie de stockage comporte de préférence un matériau différent pour procurer la diversité de vente attendue.For bulk materials, the installation 1 comprises a plurality of storage hoppers 3 which each contain a material in large quantity. Each storage hopper preferably has a different material to provide the expected variety of sales.

Selon l'invention, l'installation 1 comporte une pluralité de trémies de pré-distribution 2, chacune étant reliée à une trémie de stockage respective 3, en particulier en étant agencée immédiatement en-dessous d'une trémie de stockage 3.According to the invention, the installation 1 comprises a plurality of pre-distribution hoppers 2, each being connected to a respective storage hopper 3, in particular by being arranged immediately below a storage hopper 3.

La trémie de pré-distribution 2 a pour but de stocker provisoirement une bien plus faible quantité de matériau que la trémie de stockage 3, et sert de réservoir d'approvisionnement pour la distribution du matériau à délivrer au client.The purpose of the pre-distribution hopper 2 is to temporarily store a much smaller quantity of material than the storage hopper 3, and serves as a supply tank for the distribution of the material to be delivered to the customer.

Par exemple, une trémie de stockage 3 est apte à stocker environ une tonne de matériau tandis que la trémie de pré-distribution 2 associée procure un volume de stockage d'au plus une centaine de kilos.For example, a storage hopper 3 is capable of storing approximately one tonne of material while the associated pre-distribution hopper 2 provides a storage volume of at most a hundred kilos.

De préférence, la trémie de pré-distribution 2 est remplie selon un volume/une quantité seuil qui correspond à la quantité maximale de la trémie pouvant être pesée, et si besoin distribuée en plusieurs fois au client.Preferably, the pre-distribution hopper 2 is filled according to a volume / a threshold quantity which corresponds to the maximum quantity of the hopper that can be weighed, and if necessary distributed in several times to the customer.

Les moyens de pesée 5 participent au calcul de la quantité de matériau à distribuer, c'est-à-dire de la quantité de matériau à extraire en temps réel de chaque trémie de pré-distribution 2. Dans un mode de réalisation préféré, les moyens de pesée 5 comportent des pesons qui sont fixés à l'extrémité inférieure de la trémie de stockage 3 et portent la trémie de pré-distribution 2. Les moyens de pesée 5 permettent de peser la trémie de pré-distribution 2 et de calculer le poids de matériau qui se trouve dans ladite trémie de distribution.The weighing means 5 participate in the calculation of the quantity of material to be dispensed, that is to say of the quantity of material to be extracted in real time from each pre-dispensing hopper 2. In a preferred embodiment, the weighing means 5 comprise load cells which are fixed to the lower end of the storage hopper 3 and carry the pre-distribution hopper 2. The weighing means 5 make it possible to weigh the pre-distribution hopper 2 and to calculate the weight of material that is there in said distribution hopper.

Les moyens de pesée 5 fournissent en continu au système de gestion 6 le poids restant dans ladite trémie de pré-distribution 2. Le système de gestion 6 déduit la quantité de matériau qui est distribuée au fur et à mesure (en temps réel) en calculant la différence entre la valeur du volume seuil et la valeur du poids de matériau restant dans la trémie de pré-distribution 2. Cette quantité de matériau délivrée par la trémie de pré-distribution 2 est affichée en temps réel sur l'interface de dialogue 11.The weighing means 5 continuously supply the management system 6 with the weight remaining in said pre-distribution hopper 2. The management system 6 deduces the quantity of material which is distributed as and when (in real time) by calculating the difference between the value of the threshold volume and the value of the weight of material remaining in the pre-distribution hopper 2. This quantity of material delivered by the pre-distribution hopper 2 is displayed in real time on the dialogue interface 11 .

Les moyens de distribution 4 comprennent par exemple des tapis roulants, vis sans fin, ou casques, 40, 41 qui sont situés sous chacune des trémies de pré-distribution 2 et qui cheminent dans la zone de stockage 12 pour se terminer dans la zone de distribution 10.The distribution means 4 include, for example, conveyor belts, worms, or helmets, 40, 41 which are located under each of the pre-distribution hoppers 2 and which run through the storage area 12 to end in the storage area. distribution 10.

Les moyens de distribution 4 comportent dans la zone de distribution 10 en extrémité libre du convoyeur terminal 41, une trémie de distribution 42 permettant de déverser le matériau de manière ciblée dans une aire bien délimitée. L'ouverture et la fermeture de la trémie de distribution est en outre contrôlée par le système de gestion 6 pour distribuer le matériau en toute sécurité.The distribution means 4 comprise in the distribution zone 10 at the free end of the terminal conveyor 41, a distribution hopper 42 making it possible to discharge the material in a targeted manner in a well-defined area. The opening and closing of the distribution hopper is further controlled by the management system 6 to distribute the material safely.

Avantageusement, les moyens de distribution 4 dans la zone de distribution 10 sont réglables en hauteur, en particulier est réglable en hauteur le convoyeur terminal 41, pour s'adapter à la hauteur du véhicule dans lequel doit être distribué le matériau. La hauteur de la trémie de distribution 42 est ainsi réglable.Advantageously, the distribution means 4 in the distribution zone 10 are adjustable in height, in particular the terminal conveyor 41 is adjustable in height, to adapt to the height of the vehicle in which the material is to be distributed. The height of the distribution hopper 42 is thus adjustable.

L'agencement illustré sur la figure 1 des trémies de stockage 3 et de pré-distribution 2 ainsi que des moyens de distribution 4, est un exemple uniquement illustratif et nullement limitatif des multiples agencements qu'il est possible de concevoir, en particulier en fonction du lieu d'implantation de l'installation.The arrangement shown on figure 1 storage 3 and pre-distribution 2 hoppers as well as distribution means 4, is an example only illustrative and in no way limiting of the multiple arrangements that it is possible to design, in particular according to the location of the installation. installation.

Avantageusement, l'installation 1 comporte des moyens de surveillance 7 destinés à la sécurité des personnes se trouvant à proximité immédiate de la trémie de distribution 42. Ces moyens de surveillance 7 comprennent par exemple des capteurs de détection de présence et/ou des caméras reliés au système de gestion centralisée 6. Le système de gestion 6 n'autorise la distribution depuis la trémie de distribution 42 que si toutes les conditions de sécurité sont réunies, en particulier vérification de la hauteur appropriée de chute du matériau depuis la trémie de distribution 42 jusque dans le véhicule, vérification d'absence de la présence d'un individu dans un périmètre déterminé autour de la trémie de distribution 42, etc.Advantageously, the installation 1 comprises monitoring means 7 intended for the safety of persons in the immediate vicinity of the distribution hopper 42. These monitoring means 7 comprise, for example, presence detection sensors and / or connected cameras. to the centralized management system 6. The management system 6 only authorizes distribution from the distribution hopper 42 if all the conditions of safety are met, in particular verification of the appropriate height of fall of the material from the distribution hopper 42 into the vehicle, verification of the absence of the presence of an individual within a determined perimeter around the distribution hopper 42, etc. .

L'installation 1 de la figure 1 montre une trémie supplémentaire 43 située dans la zone du magasin 12 inaccessible pour la clientèle, afin que l'installation puisse également être utilisée par les employés du magasin de matériaux.Installation 1 of the figure 1 shows an additional hopper 43 located in the area of the store 12 inaccessible to customers, so that the installation can also be used by employees of the materials store.

Le système automatisé de gestion centralisée 6 contrôle l'ensemble des équipements de l'installation.The automated centralized management system 6 controls all the equipment of the installation.

En regard du synoptique de la figure 2, le système de gestion 6 comporte :

  • des moyens de contrôle 60 du poids de chaque trémie de pré-distribution 2 ;
  • des moyens de contrôle 61 de l'alimentation de chaque trémie de pré-distribution 2 depuis la trémie de stockage 3 associée ;
  • des moyens de contrôle 62 du prélèvement du matériau de chaque trémie de pré-distribution 2 et de marche/arrêt des moyens de distribution 4.
Next to the synoptic of the figure 2 , the management system 6 comprises:
  • means 60 for controlling the weight of each pre-distribution hopper 2;
  • means 61 for controlling the supply of each pre-distribution hopper 2 from the associated storage hopper 3;
  • means 62 for controlling the removal of material from each pre-distribution hopper 2 and for starting / stopping the distribution means 4.

Le système de gestion 6 reçoit également toutes les données issues de capteurs, caméras, et est apte à traiter ces données pour engendrer si besoin des actions automatisées.The management system 6 also receives all the data from sensors, cameras, and is able to process these data to generate automated actions if necessary.

Les moyens de contrôle 60 du poids de chaque trémie de pré-distribution 2 sont aptes à :

  • recevoir une information sur la quantité de matériau que contient la trémie de pré-distribution 2, cette information étant fournie par les moyens de pesée 5 en continu;
  • calculer une valeur de différence de poids entre l'information précédente reçue (à savoir ce qui reste dans la trémie de pré-distribution 2), et la valeur seuil de matériau fixée pour la trémie de pré-distribution 2, cette valeur seuil devant par ailleurs être atteinte dans la trémie de pré-distribution avant chaque nouvelle distribution ;
  • transmettre cette valeur de différence à l'interface de dialogue 11, cette valeur de différence correspondant à la quantité de matériau en cours de distribution qui s'affiche au client sur l'interface.
The means 60 for controlling the weight of each pre-distribution hopper 2 are suitable for:
  • receive information on the quantity of material contained in the pre-distribution hopper 2, this information being supplied by the weighing means 5 continuously;
  • calculate a value of the difference in weight between the previous information received (i.e. what remains in the pre-distribution hopper 2), and the material threshold value fixed for the pre-distribution hopper 2, this threshold value having to be elsewhere be reached in the pre-distribution hopper before each new distribution;
  • transmit this difference value to the dialogue interface 11, this difference value corresponding to the quantity of material being dispensed which is displayed to the customer on the interface.

Les moyens de contrôle 61 de l'alimentation de la trémie de pré-distribution 2 depuis la trémie de stockage 3 sont aptes à :

  • recevoir l'information que la distribution est terminée selon un arrêt de la distribution dit normal (le client a obtenu la quantité désirée) ;
  • commander l'ouverture et la fermeture de la trémie de stockage 3 pour déverser du matériau dans la trémie de pré-distribution 2 et en stopper l'alimentation ;
  • recevoir l'information de pesée de la trémie de pré-distribution 2 durant le remplissage de ladite trémie de pré-distribution jusqu'à ce que la valeur seuil soit atteinte, ce qui procure la fermeture de la trémie de stockage 3.
The means 61 for controlling the supply of the pre-distribution hopper 2 from the storage hopper 3 are capable of:
  • receive the information that the distribution is finished according to a so-called normal stop of the distribution (the customer has obtained the desired quantity);
  • control the opening and closing of the storage hopper 3 to discharge material into the pre-distribution hopper 2 and stop the feed;
  • receive the weighing information from the pre-distribution hopper 2 during the filling of said pre-distribution hopper until the threshold value is reached, which provides for the closure of the storage hopper 3.

Les moyens de contrôle 62 du prélèvement du matériau de chaque trémie de pré-distribution 2 et de fonctionnement des moyens de distribution 4 sont aptes à :

  • recevoir une information de l'interface de dialogue 11 pour initier la distribution ;
  • ouvrir la trappe de la trémie de pré-distribution 2 pour délivrer le matériau sur un convoyeur 40 (ou directement le convoyeur 41 qui est le convoyeur arrivant jusqu'à la trémie de distribution 42) des moyens de distribution 4;
  • déclencher l'ouverture de la trémie de distribution 42 située au-dessus du véhicule ;
  • stopper toute distribution, en particulier lorsque l'ordre d'arrêt de distribution est reçu de l'interface de dialogue 11, ou lorsque la valeur de différence de poids atteint une quantité commandée, ou lorsque les moyens de gestion 6 reçoivent un ordre d'arrêt d'urgence.
The means 62 for controlling the removal of material from each pre-distribution hopper 2 and for the operation of the distribution means 4 are able to:
  • receive information from the dialogue interface 11 to initiate the distribution;
  • opening the hatch of the pre-distribution hopper 2 to deliver the material onto a conveyor 40 (or directly the conveyor 41 which is the conveyor arriving as far as the distribution hopper 42) of the distribution means 4;
  • trigger the opening of the distribution hopper 42 located above the vehicle;
  • stop any distribution, in particular when the order to stop distribution is received from the dialogue interface 11, or when the weight difference value reaches a ordered quantity, or when the management means 6 receive an order of emergency stop.

Le fonctionnement de l'installation 1 pour une distribution en libre-service à un client est à présent décrit.The operation of the installation 1 for self-service distribution to a customer is now described.

Le client positionne son véhicule ou un autre contenant dans la zone de distribution 10, de préférence selon un emplacement délimité en positionnant sa remorque au droit de la trémie de distribution 42. Il se rend à la borne interactive intégrant l'interface de dialogue 11.The customer positions his vehicle or another container in the distribution zone 10, preferably in a delimited location by positioning his trailer to the right of the distribution hopper 42. He goes to the interactive terminal integrating the dialogue interface 11.

Sur l'interface de dialogue 11 :

  • le client saisit éventuellement différents paramètres, tels que présence d'un contenant, par exemple d'un véhicule ou d'une remorque, ou autre ;
  • il établit son paiement par carte bancaire ;
  • il sélectionne la nature du matériau ;
  • il règle, de préférence de manière automatisée depuis l'interface de dialogue, la hauteur de la trémie de distribution 42 et/ou la hauteur du convoyeur terminal 41 ;
  • il actionne (de préférence par touche tactile) un bouton de démarrage de la distribution jusqu'à obtenir la distribution de la quantité voulue, et stoppe la distribution par un bouton d'arrêt ou autre type de moyen d'actionnement ou déclencheur de l'arrêt de distribution. Le client a la possibilité d'ajuster la hauteur du convoyeur de terminaison 41 à tout moment au cours de la distribution
On the dialog interface 11:
  • the customer optionally enters various parameters, such as the presence of a container, for example a vehicle or a trailer, or other;
  • he establishes his payment by bank card;
  • it selects the nature of the material;
  • it regulates, preferably automatically from the dialogue interface, the height of the distribution hopper 42 and / or the height of the terminal conveyor 41;
  • it actuates (preferably by touch-sensitive) a distribution start button until the desired quantity is dispensed, and stops the distribution by a stop button or other type of actuating means or trigger of the stopping distribution. The customer has the option to adjust the height of the end conveyor 41 at any time during distribution

L'arrêt de la distribution pourrait également se faire de manière automatisée sans que le client n'actionne un bouton arrêt, par exemple après qu'une certaine quantité de matériau ait été délivrée, cette quantité ayant été préalablement identifiée par l'interface de dialogue. En variante quant au paiement de la distribution, le client aura pu saisir ses informations de paiement préalablement à son arrivée sur le site de l'installation (par exemple via Internet), et bénéficier d'un moyen/code d'identification apte à être reconnu par l'interface de dialogue 11 pour assurer la distribution.Stopping the distribution could also be done automatically without the customer pressing a stop button, for example after a certain quantity of material has been delivered, this quantity having been identified beforehand by the dialogue interface. . As a variant as regards the payment of the distribution, the customer will have been able to enter his payment information prior to his arrival on the site of the installation (for example via the Internet), and to benefit from a means / identification code able to be recognized by the dialog interface 11 to ensure distribution.

Le client ne pourra se servir que selon une ou des quantités maximales qui correspondent chacune à la quantité maximale (de seuil) que contient la trémie de pré-distribution 2.The customer may only use one or more maximum quantities which each correspond to the maximum quantity (threshold) contained in the pre-distribution hopper 2.

Les moyens de contrôle 60 du poids de la trémie de pré-distribution 2 transmettent en temps réel à l'interface de dialogue 11, l'information de la quantité de matériau qui est en cours de distribution. Cette information de la quantité de matériau en cours de distribution est affichée sur l'interface de dialogue 11 afin que le client vérifie la quantité.The means 60 for controlling the weight of the pre-distribution hopper 2 transmit in real time to the dialogue interface 11, information on the quantity of material which is being distributed. This information of the quantity of material being dispensed is displayed on the dialogue interface 11 so that the customer checks the quantity.

Une fois que la quantité de distribution souhaitée par le client est atteinte, l'arrêt de distribution ayant été déclenché au niveau de l'interface de dialogue 11, l'information d'arrêt est alors transmise en temps réel au système de gestion 6 qui déclenche la fermeture de la trémie de pré-distribution 2. Pendant ce temps, la fin de la quantité du matériau présente sur le ou les convoyeurs poursuit son cheminement jusqu'à la trémie de distribution 42. Les moyens de distribution 4 s'arrêtent une fois que toute la quantité de matériau a été distribuée.Once the quantity of distribution desired by the customer is reached, the distribution stop having been triggered at the level of the dialogue interface 11, the stop information is then transmitted in real time to the management system 6 which triggers the closing of the pre-distribution hopper 2. During this time, the end of the quantity of material present on the conveyor or conveyors continues its path to the distribution hopper 42. The distribution means 4 stop once after all the material has been dispensed.

Dès que la trémie de pré-distribution 2 a été refermée, le système de gestion 6 a déclenché son réapprovisionnement depuis la trémie de pré-stockage 3 jusqu'à atteindre en poids la valeur seuil. Une nouvelle distribution à l'interface de dialogue peut alors être enclenchée.As soon as the pre-distribution hopper 2 has been closed, the management system 6 has triggered its replenishment from the pre-storage hopper 3 until the threshold value is reached by weight. A new distribution to the dialog interface can then be initiated.

L'invention permet donc à tout utilisateur de manière extrêmement simple et rapide d'acheter des matériaux de construction en libre-service, et de vérifier en temps réel la quantité qui est distribuée.The invention therefore enables any user in an extremely simple and rapid manner to purchase self-service building materials, and to verify in real time the quantity which is distributed.

Claims (13)

Installation (1) de vente et de distribution de matériaux ou de matière solide, notamment en vrac, l'installation étant une installation de distribution en libre-service et comportant au moins une trémie de pré-distribution (2) contenant du matériau de construction à distribuer, des moyens de distribution (4) reliés à la trémie de pré-distribution (2), et une interface de dialogue (11) pour un utilisateur-client, l'interface de dialogue étant en libre-service et apte à déclencher de manière automatisée la distribution du matériau à l'utilisateur depuis la trémie de pré-distribution (2) et via les moyens de distribution (4).Installation (1) for the sale and distribution of materials or solid matter, in particular in bulk, the installation being a self-service distribution installation and comprising at least one pre-distribution hopper (2) containing construction material to be distributed, distribution means (4) connected to the pre-distribution hopper (2), and a dialogue interface (11) for a user-client, the dialogue interface being self-service and able to trigger in an automated manner the distribution of the material to the user from the pre-distribution hopper (2) and via the distribution means (4). Installation selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que l'interface de dialogue (11) fournit un état en temps réel de la quantité de matériau en cours de distribution, et comporte des moyens pour stopper la distribution une fois la quantité atteinte, en particulier telle que voulue par le client ou maximale autorisée à être distribuée en une ou plusieurs fois.Installation according to Claim 1, characterized in that the dialogue interface (11) provides a real-time status of the quantity of material being dispensed, and comprises means for stopping the dispensing once the quantity has been reached, in particular as desired by the customer or maximum allowed to be dispensed on one or more occasions. Installation selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte d'une part, une zone (12) dite de stockage qui est conçue en étant inaccessible au client et comprend des moyens de stockage (3) de matériau, la au moins une trémie de pré-distribution (2) et une partie des moyens de distribution (4), et d'autre part, une autre zone (10) qui est de libre accès pour le client, et comprend une autre partie des moyens de distribution (4) et l'interface de dialogue (11).Installation according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises, on the one hand, a so-called storage area (12) which is designed to be inaccessible to the customer and comprises material storage means (3), minus a pre-distribution hopper (2) and part of the distribution means (4), and on the other hand, another area (10) which is freely accessible for the customer, and comprises another part of the means of distribution (4) and the dialogue interface (11). Installation selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte au moins une trémie de stockage (3) apte à alimenter la au moins une trémie de pré-distribution (2) selon une quantité seuil de matériau, de préférence elle comporte plusieurs trémies de stockage stockant différents matériaux, chacune des trémies de stockage étant reliée à une trémie de pré-distribution.Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one storage hopper (3) capable of supplying the at least one pre-distribution hopper (2) according to a threshold quantity of material, preferably it has several storage hoppers storing different materials, each of the storage hoppers being connected to a pre-distribution hopper. Installation selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte un système automatisé de gestion (6) qui est relié à l'interface de dialogue (11) et contrôle la délivrance en continu du matériau depuis la trémie de pré-distribution (2), et sa ré-alimentation après distribution/service.Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises an automated management system (6) which is connected to the dialogue interface (11) and controls the continuous delivery of the material. from the pre-distribution hopper (2), and its re-supply after distribution / service. Installation selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce que la trémie de pré-distribution (2) est remplie avant distribution jusqu'à une quantité seuil prédéfinie.Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the pre-distribution hopper (2) is filled before distribution up to a predefined threshold quantity. Installation selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte des moyens de pesée (5) de la quantité de matériau présente dans la trémie de pré-distribution (2), en particulier la trémie de pré-distribution est fixée à une trémie de stockage (3) par un ou plusieurs pesons qui constituent des moyens de pesée.Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises means (5) for weighing the quantity of material present in the pre-distribution hopper (2), in particular the pre-distribution hopper is fixed to a storage hopper (3) by one or more load cells which constitute weighing means. Installation selon la revendication précédente, caractérisée en ce que les moyens de pesée (5) fournissent en continu à un système de gestion (6) ou directement à l'interface de dialogue (11), le poids restant dans la ou les trémies de pré-distribution (2), de façon à calculer la différence entre une valeur seuil de poids de matériau présent dans la ou les trémies de pré-distribution avant chaque début de distribution, et le poids restant, cette différence correspondant à la quantité de matériau distribué en temps réel et s'affichant pour le client sur l'interface de dialogue.Installation according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the weighing means (5) continuously supply to a management system (6) or directly to the dialogue interface (11), the weight remaining in the pre-hopper (s). -distribution (2), so as to calculate the difference between a threshold value of the weight of material present in the pre-distribution hopper (s) before each start of distribution, and the remaining weight, this difference corresponding to the quantity of material distributed in real time and displayed to the customer on the dialogue interface. Installation selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte des moyens de pesée (5) de la quantité de matériau présente sur les moyens de distribution (4).Installation according to any one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it comprises means (5) for weighing the quantity of material present on the distribution means (4). Installation selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce que les moyens de distribution (4) comportent au moins un convoyeur (40, 41) tel qu'un tapis éventuellement vibrant, ou une vis sans fin, et de préférence un moyen terminal (42) canalisant la distribution.Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distribution means (4) comprise at least one conveyor (40, 41) such as a possibly vibrating belt, or an endless screw, and preferably a means terminal (42) channeling the distribution. Installation selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte des moyens de détection (7) de la hauteur du contenant dans lequel sera distribué le matériau, tel qu'une remorque, et des moyens permettant d'adapter la hauteur de la terminaison libre des moyens de distribution en fonction de la hauteur détectée, en particulier les moyens de distribution comprenant un convoyeur dont l'inclinaison est adaptable en fonction de la hauteur détectée.Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises means (7) for detecting the height of the container in which the material will be distributed, such as a trailer, and means making it possible to adapt the height of the free termination of the distribution means as a function of the height detected, in particular the distribution comprising a conveyor, the inclination of which can be adapted according to the height detected. Installation selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comporte des moyens de surveillance (7) tels que des capteurs de détection de présence et/ou des caméras, aptes à sécuriser la zone où se trouve le client et son véhicule pour une distribution en libre-service en toute sécurité, en particulier vis-à-vis des moyens de distribution qui délivrent en vrac et par gravité depuis une certaine hauteur le matériau.Installation according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises monitoring means (7) such as presence detection sensors and / or cameras, capable of securing the area where the customer is and his vehicle for safe self-service distribution, in particular with respect to the distribution means which deliver the material in bulk and by gravity from a certain height. Procédé de distribution en libre-service de matériau de construction, en particulier à l'aide de l'installation selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, comportant les étapes suivantes : - positionnement par un utilisateur d'un contenant dans une zone délimitée et de libre accès, - communication par l'utilisateur avec une interface de dialogue en libre-service, - identification par l'interface de dialogue de différents paramètres liés à l'utilisateur dont la nature et la quantité de matériau désiré, et de préférence le poids total autorisé pour le contenant tel que le poids total autorisé en charge pour un véhicule du type remorque, - une fois l'identification effectuée, début de la distribution de manière automatisée, de préférence en commandant en outre à partir d'un bouton « départ » qu'actionne l'utilisateur et/ou d'un bouton de validation de la hauteur de distribution dans le contenant, - distribution automatisée selon un acheminement du matériau directement dans le contenant ; - arrêt automatisé de la distribution, notamment lorsqu'une valeur pré-renseignée par l'utilisateur est atteinte ou via l'actionnement par l'utilisateur d'un bouton « arrêt », et de préférence impression ou transmission à distance d'un récapitulatif de distribution tel qu'une facture.] A method of self-service distribution of building material, in particular using the installation according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: - positioning by a user of a container in a delimited and free access area, - communication by the user with a self-service dialogue interface, - identification by the dialogue interface of various parameters linked to the user, including the nature and quantity of material desired, and preferably the total authorized weight for the container such as the total authorized laden weight for a vehicle of the trailer type , - Once the identification has been made, start of the dispensing in an automated manner, preferably by further ordering from a "start" button actuated by the user and / or a button for validating the height of distribution in the container, - automated distribution by routing the material directly into the container; - automated stop of the distribution, in particular when a value pre-entered by the user is reached or via the actuation by the user of a "stop" button, and preferably printing or remote transmission of a summary distribution such as an invoice.]
EP20180586.8A 2019-06-18 2020-06-17 Installation and method for self-service distribution of materials Pending EP3754621A1 (en)

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FR1906504A FR3097417B1 (en) 2019-06-18 2019-06-18 INSTALLATION AND METHOD FOR SELF-SERVICE DISTRIBUTION OF MATERIALS

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