EP3933157B1 - Leaf of a gate for a platform for working at height and work platform comprising such a gate leaf - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to platform-type height access devices. The term "platform" here means in particular mobile ladders with a platform, and more specifically mobile ladders with a work platform with a maximum surface area of 1 m ² and a maximum height of 5 m, designed to be used by one person at a time. Such platforms are presented in standard NF EN 131-7.

The invention relates in particular to individual rolling platforms (PIR) or light individual rolling platforms (PIRL).

A rolling individual platform is conventionally a secure workstation that complies with standard NF P 93-352. A rolling individual platform is therefore a platform used for work at height, which can be carried and/or handled with a crane in building work by a single operator, working on a floor at a maximum height of 2.5 m above above ground. The PIRs have a means of movement, a means of immobilization and a means of access to the workstation. Portable PIRs have a mass of less than 50 kg and can be folded without dissociation from their elements. The PIRs are equipped with two wheels to allow their handling in the closed position. PIRs have a floor protected on three sides by means of protection against falls from a height. These means of protection against falls comprise a plinth, extending on three sides of the floor. When the user is at the workstation, the means of protection against falls comprise a smooth extending substantially at the level of the user's pelvis, and a sub-smooth extending at the height of the user's legs. A mobile closure of access to the workstation is provided. The presence of the operator on the platform must not be an obstacle to closing access to the workstation. When the workstation is opened outwards, the NF P 93-352 standard provides that a mobile closure locking system is mandatory.

The document FR2914683 shows an example of PIR.

A light rolling individual platform is conventionally a secure workstation compliant with the NF P 93-353 standard. A light rolling individual platform is therefore a platform used for work at height, which can be carried and/or handled with a crane in building work by a single operator, working on a floor at a maximum height of 1.5 m above the ground. above ground. The PIRLs have a means of movement, a means of immobilization and a means of access to the workstation. The PIRLs have a mass of less than 50 kg and can be folded without dissociation from their elements. The PIRLs are equipped with wheels to allow their handling in the closed position. The PIRLs have a floor protected on three sides by means of protection against falls from a height. These means of protection against falls comprise a plinth, extending on three sides of the floor. When the user is at the workstation, the means of protection against falls comprise a smooth extending substantially at the level of the user's pelvis, and a sub-smooth extending at the height of the user's legs. A mobile closure of access to the workstation is provided. The presence of the operator on the platform must not be an obstacle to closing access to the workstation. When the workstation is opened outwards, the NF P 93-353 standard provides that a mobile closure locking system is mandatory.

The document FR3023571 shows an example of PIRL.

Various assemblies have been proposed in the prior art, for the mobile closure means of access to the workstation of the platforms, and in particular of the PIR or PIRL.

According to a first design, the closure means are formed of a simple chain or a strap, as presented for example in the documents FR2914683 (DUARIB ), EP3095952 (CDH ), FR3066223 (CDH ), FR2890677 (COMABI ), FR2750152 (COMABI ), EP2738345 (AUDINNOV ), EP1921249 (ZARGES ).

According to a second design, the closure means are formed of a bar, as proposed in the documents EP2818625 (CDH ), WO2019/170141 (SCG ), DE202007000406 (HYMER ), CN209385045U (POSH ).

According to a third design, the closing means are formed of semi-rigid heddles, as presented for example in the documents FR3005986 (CDH ), FR3005987 (CDH ).

These first three designs are generally satisfactory. However, it has been observed that some users consider that the installation of these closing means is not essential and constitutes a waste of time.

In order to improve user safety, some manufacturers of height access devices offer working platforms, platforms or ladders with self-closing access to the platform.

In one design, a U-bar comes to sit behind the user, as shown in the documents FR2920815 (TUBESCA ), DE102013005324 (HYMER ).

In another design, the platform is provided with a self-closing gate. Access to the workstation requires the unlocking of the gate, then its crossing, the gate returning to the closed position under the effect of return elements.

The use of a self-closing gate guarantees a closed workstation for the user.

The installation of a gate with automatic opening in the individual platforms is described in the documents FR3023571 (CDH ), FR3067742 (AUDINNOV ), FR3027942 (AUDINNOV ), CN203308376U (SUZHOU ), CN203308371U (SUZHOU ), CN103233675(SUZHOU ), US9663989 (WING ), US10138679 (WING ), CN210396601U , CN1 10185380 (SUZHOU ), CN206722749U (SHIYA ), GB2541446 (TBD ). The applicant has found that the individual platforms with automatic gate of the state of the art have drawbacks.

In particular, in the individual platforms with automatic gate of the state of the art, the opening of the gate takes place towards the interior of the workstation.

This inward-opening gate arrangement is the most natural. Indeed, when climbing into the platform, the gate opens when the user passes to close automatically behind him, the user being able to enter the platform with tools in hand.

Such an arrangement is not, however, without drawbacks.

The space available in the workstation is sometimes reduced, the presence of the user being able to interfere with the movement of the gate inwards, when the user wants to leave the workstation.

This drawback is particularly present when the gate is formed from a single leaf, extending over the entire width of the workstation.

The document US 2013/186710 A1 discloses a leaf according to the preamble of claim 1. There is also a risk that the door, when returning to the closed position from its open position towards the inside of the workstation, hits the back or the head of the worker. user who descends from the platform.

The invention aims in particular to overcome these drawbacks, by proposing a new gate structure suitable for platforms, in particular for PIRs or PIRLs, or platforms used for placing products on shelves.

For these purposes, the invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a gate leaf for an elevated work platform, this gate comprising a shaft forming the axis of rotation of the gate leaf and a hinge mounted in rotation relative to the shaft, the shaft carrying a cam and the hinge carrying a cam track in which said cam moves during the pivoting movement of the gate leaf, the cam track comprising a first upper segment, a second lower segment and a segment connection between the upper segment and the lower segment, the stroke of the cam in the lower segment defining a first angular deflection of the gate leaf against a first return means, the stroke of the cam in the upper segment defining a second angular deflection of the gate leaf counter to a second return means, a control member making it possible to move the cam in the connecting segment, counter of a third recall means.

The control member is for example an ergonomic handle, making it possible to exert a force from the bottom upwards on the leaf.

In some implementations, the cam is formed by a pin projecting from the shaft forming the axis of rotation, the cam track being formed by a reservation in the hinge. The pawn is for example a screw head.

In some implementations, the hinge comprises a tubular sleeve for mounting to the shaft forming the axis of rotation, the cam path being formed by a slot made in the wall of the sleeve. Advantageously, the upper segment of the cam track extends over an angular sector comprised between 20° and 90°, and preferably extends over 90°.

Advantageously, the lower segment of the cam track extends over an angular sector comprised between 20° and 90°, and preferably extends over 90°.

In certain advantageous implementations, the control member is a handle mounted on the leaf.

In some embodiments, the deflections of the gate take place against mechanical return means. The mechanical return means comprise for example a torsion spring.

In other embodiments, the deflections of the gate take place against hydraulic or pneumatic return means.

In other embodiments, the return means comprise a slope on the cam track, on the first segment and/or on the second segment, the cam moving on the cam track by gravity, as soon as the operator releases the beating. Advantageously, a single torsion spring forms the first, the second and the third return means. Thus, when the leaf is installed on a platform, the single spring makes it possible to ensure the recall of the gate leaf downwards, the recall of the gate when it is open towards the inside of the platform, and the recall of the gate when open to the outside of the platform. Advantageously, the return means and the hinge are housed in a shell formed by assembling two half-shells.

The invention relates, according to a second aspect, to a platform for working at height comprising a gate leaf as presented above, the platform having one ascent plane or two ascent planes.

In some implementations, the platform comprises a gate with two leaves, each of the two leaves being as presented above.

Advantageously, the platform is an individual rolling platform PIR, or a light rolling individual platform PIRL.

• la figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'une plateforme selon un mode de réalisation, le plan de montée étant placé vers l'avant ;
• la figure 2 est une vue en perspective de la plateforme de la figure 1, selon un autre angle de vue, le piètement support étant placé vers l'avant ;
• la figure 3 est une vue latérale de la plateforme représentée en figures 1 et 2 ;
• la figure 4 est une vue de dessus de la plateforme représentée en figures 1 à 3 ;
• la figure 5 est une vue avant de la plateforme représentée en figures 1 à 4, l'observateur étant face au plan de montée ;
• la figure 6 est une vue en perspective éclatée des moyens de commande de la rotation d'un battant de portillon ;
• la figure 7 est une vue analogue à la figure 6, selon un autre angle de vue ;
• la figure 8 est une vue de détail des éléments représentés en figures 6 et 7 ;
• la figure 9 est une vue de la pièce supérieure de liaison du battant à son arbre de rotation ;
• la figure 10 est une vue de côté de la pièce supérieure de liaison représentée en figure 9 ;
• la figure 11 est une vue en perspective d'une première demi-coque de protection des moyens de commande représentés en figure 6 ;
• la figure 12 est une vue en perspective de la deuxième demi-coque destinée à être assemblée à la demi-coque représentée en figure 11 ;
• la figure 13 est une vue d'un moyen mécanique de rappel, selon une mise en œuvre ;
• la figure 14 est une vue en perspective d'un tube de montage des moyens de rappel de la figure 13 ;
• la figure 15 est une vue analogue à la figure 14, les moyens de rappel élastique de la figure 13 étant en place sur le tube de montage de la figure 14,
• la figure 16 est une vue analogue à la figure 1 d'un deuxième mode de réalisation d'une plateforme ;
• la figure 17 est une vue de détail des portillons de la plateforme représentée en figure 16.

Other objects and advantages of the invention will appear in the light of the description of embodiments, given below with reference to the appended drawings in which:

• the figure 1 is a perspective view of a platform according to one embodiment, the ascent plane being placed forward;
• the figure 2 is a perspective view of the platform of the figure 1 , according to another angle of view, the support base being placed forwards;
• the picture 3 is a side view of the platform shown in figure 1 and 2 ;
• the figure 4 is a top view of the platform shown in figures 1 to 3 ;
• the figure 5 is a front view of the platform shown in figures 1 to 4 , the observer facing the climb plane;
• the figure 6 is an exploded perspective view of the means for controlling the rotation of a gate leaf;
• the figure 7 is a view analogous to figure 6 , from another angle of view;
• the figure 8 is a detail view of the elements shown in figure 6 and 7 ;
• the figure 9 is a view of the upper part connecting the leaf to its rotation shaft;
• the figure 10 is a side view of the upper connecting piece shown in figure 9 ;
• the figure 11 is a perspective view of a first protective half-shell of the control means shown in figure 6 ;
• the figure 12 is a perspective view of the second half-shell intended to be assembled with the half-shell shown in figure 11 ;
• the figure 13 is a view of a mechanical return means, according to one implementation;
• the figure 14 is a perspective view of a tube for mounting the return means of the figure 13 ;
• the figure 15 is a view analogous to figure 14 , the elastic return means of the figure 13 being in place on the mounting tube of the figure 14 ,
• the figure 16 is a view analogous to figure 1 a second embodiment of a platform;
• the figure 17 is a detail view of the gates of the platform shown in figure 16 .

In the rest of this description, the terms “horizontal”, “vertical” are used in reference to the platform in the deployed position, resting on the ground, as represented in figure 1 and 2 .

We first refer to the figure 1 and 2 which represent a platform 1, according to one embodiment, the platform 1 being represented in perspective from two viewing angles.

Platform 1 comprises two legs.

In the embodiment shown, the platform has simple access, a first base 2 forming a climbing plane, the second base 3 forming a crutch.

In other embodiments, not shown, the platform is dual access, and comprises two legs each forming a rise plane. Each of the accesses is then advantageously provided with an automatic gate. In an advantageous embodiment, each of the two automatic gates is possible to open towards the outside of the platform.

In the embodiment shown in figure 1 and 2 , the ascent plan comprises two longerons 4.5 and rungs forming a step 6.7. Steps 6.7 advantageously comprise a non-slip bearing surface, this surface being for example embossed, ribbed, perforated. According to various embodiments, the steps 6.7 comprise an element in the form of a grid, a grating, expanded metal or perforated metal. Steps 6.7 can be made of metal, in particular of aluminum alloy or steel, or of composite material.

In the embodiment shown, the second base 3 comprises two longerons 8, 9 and a lower crosspiece 10. The crosspiece is in the form of a substantially horizontal bar.

In other embodiments, not shown, the second base comprises more than two crosspieces, for example in the form of two substantially horizontal bars. The platform comprises for example five to seven steps, the maximum working height then being of the order of three to four meters.

In certain embodiments, the second base comprises a lower crosspiece in the form of a folded or curved tube, forming a U with an opening towards the ground. This arrangement allows the use of the platform above an obstacle such as for example a toilet bowl. In the embodiment shown in figure 1 and 2 , the ascent plan is of fixed height and comprises two steps 6, 7. The ascent plan may comprise a single step, or more than two steps. In some embodiments, the ascent plan is height-adjustable, and comprises for example two telescopic sets, the second base also being height-adjustable. When the ascent plane comprises a large number of steps, the platform advantageously comprises stabilizers, on the ascent plane and/or on the second base. The stabilizers are advantageously foldable.

Each of the two side members 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 carries a non-slip pad 11, 12. This pad 11, 12 is for example made of elastomer. The fixing of the shoe 11, 12 on its spar 4, 5 support is for example obtained by force fitting.

Each of the two longitudinal members 8, 9 of the second leg 3 forming a crutch carries a non-slip pad 13, 14. This pad is for example made of elastomer. The fixing of the shoe 13, 14 on its spar 8, 9 support is for example obtained by force fitting.

When a user climbs onto the platform 1 in the deployed position as shown in figure 1 and 2 , the platform 1 rests on the ground on its four non-slip pads 11-14.

In the embodiment shown in figure 1 and 2 , each of two non-slip pads 11, 12 of the ascent plane 2 carries a wheel 15, 16. When a user wishes to move the platform 1, in the deployed position or in the folded position, the ascent plane 2 is inclined with respect to the vertical, so that the wheels 15, 16 come into contact with the ground. It is thus possible to move the platform 1 manually and effortlessly, like a wheelbarrow.

When a user climbs the ascent plane or is on the platform, the wheels 15, 16 advantageously do not touch the ground.

In other embodiments, for example shown in figure 16 , each of the two longitudinal members of the stand carries a wheel, allowing the movement of the platform, in the deployed position of use or in the compact folded position, for transport.

In the embodiment shown, the displacement wheels are neither steerable nor load-bearing in the working position of the platform. Each of the two non-slip pads 13, 14 of the stand 3 advantageously carries a device for locking the side members of the ascent plane, when the platform 1 is in the compact folded position.

In the embodiment shown, each of the locking devices comprises two deformable tabs 17, 18 forming an elastic hook. When the platform 1 is folded up, the longerons 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 approach those of the stand 3 and come to open the elastic hooks. The blocking of the beams 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 is obtained by snap-fastening.

In the embodiment shown in figure 1 and 2 , the beams 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 comprise a lower section 4a, 5a, and an upper section 4b, 5b. The upper sections 4b, 5b are substantially parallel. The lower sections 4a, 5a are not parallel, and approach each other starting from the ground. This arrangement makes it possible to increase the support polygon and the width of the first steps of the ascent plane, with respect to a platform whose longitudinal members of the ascent plane would be parallel over their entire length. In the embodiment shown in figure 1 and 2 , the longitudinal members 8, 9 of the stand comprise a lower section 8a, 9a and an upper section 8b, 9b. The upper sections 8b, 9b are substantially parallel. The lower sections 8a, 9a are not parallel, and approach each other starting from the ground. This arrangement makes it possible to increase the support polygon, with respect to a platform whose longitudinal members of the stand are parallel over their entire length. When the stand has a U-shaped crosspiece to facilitate the passage of an obstacle such as a toilet bowl, the spacing of the lower sections 8a, 9a facilitates the positioning of the platform above the obstacle.

In the embodiment shown in figure 16 , the beams 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 are formed of two parallel sections, of rectangular cross section, and the beams 8, 9 of the stand 3 are formed of two parallel sections of rectangular cross section. The platform 1 comprises a horizontal floor 19.

In the embodiment shown in figure 1 and 2 , the floor is at a height corresponding to the junction between the lower sections 4a, 5a; 8a, 9a and upper sections 4b, 5b; 8a, 9b of the side members 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 and the side members 8, 9 of the stand.

This floor is advantageously non-slip and has, for example, an embossed, ribbed or perforated surface.

The floor can be made of metal, in particular of aluminum alloy or steel, or else of composite material, for example with a polymer matrix and fiberglass reinforcement.

A plinth delimits the floor 19, this plinth comprising three sections substantially perpendicular to the floor 19, namely two lateral sections 20, 21 and a junction section 22, opposite the ascent plane.

This plinth limits the risk of falling objects such as tools that would be on the floor. This plinth forms a stop for the user's feet, reducing the risk of falling.

The height of the plinth is advantageously ten centimeters or more than ten centimeters.

In one implementation, the floor and the plinth came from material, for example from injection molding. In other implementations, the plinth is fixed to the floor. In certain particular embodiments, the plinth is hinged to the floor between a deployed position for use and a compact folded position, for storage or transport of the platform.

The width of the floor is advantageously forty centimeters, and its length less than one meter. The platform is thus suitable for indoor work, and can be moved in openings such as doors, or in the stairs of buildings.

Platform 1 includes a guardrail.

In the embodiment shown in figure 1 and 2 , the railing is made of bent or bent tubes.

Advantageously, the tubes forming the guardrail are similar to those forming the two legs.

The tubes forming the guardrail and the legs may in particular be made of aluminum alloy or steel.

When the platform is intended for electrical work, the tubes forming the guardrail and the legs are advantageously made of insulating material, such as a composite material, for example with a polymer matrix and fiberglass or flax fiber.

The guardrail comprises a bottom rail 23 and an upper rail 24.

The heddles 23, 24 are articulated between a deployed position of the platform, shown in figure 1 and 2 , and a compact folded position for storing the platform.

In the deployed position of use of the platform as shown in figure 1 and 2 , the lower and upper smooth 23, 24 are substantially horizontal.

The lower rail 23 carries a lower shelf 25. In some implementations, this lower shelf 25 is made of polymer material or composite material. The functions of the lower shelf 25 are adaptable to the uses desired for the platform 1, the shelf being able to serve as a tool holder, and/or as a support for a flexible or rigid tool box, and/or as a support for a container , for example a can of paint. Depending in particular on the loads in service, the fixing of the lower shelf 25 on the smooth 23 can be carried out by force fitting, or by screwing or riveting.

The upper rail 24 carries an upper shelf 26. In certain implementations, this upper shelf 26 is made of polymer material or of composite material. The functions of the upper shelf 26 can be adapted to the uses desired for the platform 1, the shelf 26 being able to serve as a tool holder, and/or as a support for a flexible or rigid tool box. Depending in particular on the loads in service, the fixing of the upper shelf 26 on the rail 24 can be carried out by force fitting, or by screwing or riveting.

The two beams 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 delimit a circulation space for the body of the user, during his ascent and his descent from the platform 1.

A work space is delimited laterally by the upper sections 4b, 5b of the side members of the ascent plane, the upper sections 8b, 9b of the side members of the rear stand.

This workspace is secure, in particular vis-à-vis the risk of falling, at different heights of the user's body.

A first security, at the height of the user's feet, is provided by the three sections 20-22 of the plinth.

A second security, at the height of the user's legs, is provided by the lower rail 23 of the guardrail.

A third security, at the height of the user's pelvis, is provided by the upper rail 24 of the guardrail.

The lower and upper rails of the guardrail provide safety to the user against lateral tilting or forward tilting of the platform, ie substantially over 270°. Complete 360° workspace security is provided by the presence of an automatic access gate.

By "automatic" is meant here the fact that the gate automatically returns, without any action from the operator, to its closed position of the workspace.

Advantageously, entry and exit from the work space at height is under the control of an automatic gate.

In an advantageous implementation, entry into the workspace is performed by opening the access gate, this opening being caused by the passage of the user's body, or by a manual operation of the gate by the 'user. Entry into the workspace can thus be performed when the user has his arms loaded or is carrying tools.

Very advantageously, the exit from the workspace can be performed by opening the door towards the outside of the workstation. This arrangement eliminates the defects of automatic gate platforms of the state of the art, in which the gate opens only towards the inside of the platform.

In the platforms with automatic gate of the state of the art, the space available in the workstation being sometimes reduced, the presence of the user can hinder the movement of the gate inwards, when the user wants to leave of the workstation.

Very advantageously, the platform proposed here is provided with means preventing the accidental opening of the gate outwards, for example when the user present in the workspace leans on the gate. The workspace is thus protected against the risk of the user tipping backwards.

In the embodiments shown, the gate has a double leaf, the two leafs 27, 28 being of similar structure and mirroring one another with respect to a vertical plane. For this reason, in the remainder of this description, only one of the two wings will be described in detail.

In other embodiments, not shown, the two wings are similar in every arrangement, with the exception of their dimensions, one of the two wings being wider than the other.

In other embodiments, not shown, the gate is provided with a single leaf, with a pivot axis arranged to the right or to the left of the ascent plane.

As mentioned previously, in embodiments not shown, the platform comprises more than one ascent plane, and for example two ascent planes, each ascent plane possibly comprising an automatic gate which can open towards exterior, single or double leaf.

In the embodiment shown in figure 1 and 2 , each leaf 27, 28 of the gate comprises a tubular arch. The hoop is advantageously produced by folding or bending a tube, the tube being similar to those forming the stringers 4, 5 of the ascent plane and/or the stringers 8, 9 of the stand, and/or the lower stringers and upper 23, 24 of the guardrail.

Advantageously, the beams 4, 5, 8, 9, the stringers 23, 24 and the arches of the leaves 27, 28 of the gate are formed by cutting, folding, bending, and assembly, from the same metal tube, for example an aluminum alloy tube of round section, or a composite tube, for example resulting from pultrusion.

In other embodiments, not shown, at least one of the leaves of the gate comprises a solid or perforated plate. This arrangement can reinforce the feeling of security for the user present in the workspace, and reduces the risk of falling objects. The platform is provided with two handles 29, 30 for maneuvering.

These handles 29, 30 are used by the user of the platform, when folding or unfolding the guardrail.

The ergonomics of the handles 29, 30 is enhanced by the dimensions, shapes and materials used.

Advantageously, the handles are generally cylindrical in shape, with a diameter of between 30 and 50 mm, typically of the order of 40 mm, and a length of at least 100 mm, typically of the order of 120 mm. , these dimensions offering a good PTO.

Advantageously, the material forming the handles 29, 30 is non-slip, non-conductive and compressible, and is for example an elastomeric material.

As will appear more fully in the rest of this description, the manual opening of the gate is possible when performing a vertical manual effort on the gate, from bottom to top, against a means of reminder.

The orientation of such an effort excludes that it intervenes involuntarily. The stiffness of the return means is advantageously relatively high, eliminating any risk of accidental opening of the gate.

Advantageously, the handles 29, 30 are provided with reliefs, ribs or embossments, forming for example horizontal annular hollows. The handles 29, 30 advantageously comprise a sleeve attached to the lower end of the tubular piece forming the pivot axis 43 of the leaf.

The sleeve can be brightly colored, fluorescent or phosphorescent if necessary, in order to facilitate the use of the handles.

The guardrail and gate are hinged, the platform can be transported or stored in a compact folded position. Advantageously, the means for articulating the guardrail and the gate do not extend towards the inside of the workspace.

In the embodiment shown in figure 1 and 2 , no member of the platform protrudes above the top rail 24 of the guardrail. The user present in the workspace thus benefits from 360° safety, with no part of the platform interfering with his view or his arm movements.

As it appears in particular in picture 3 , in the deployed position of use, the leaves 27, 28 are arranged substantially vertically. The wings 27, 28 are hinged to the top rail 24, by a first hinge means 31. The wings 27, 28 are hinged to the lower rail 23 by a second hinge means 32.

Starting from the position shown in picture 3 , the user wishing to move the platform 1 on its wheels 15, 16 exerts a manual effort according to the arrow F of the picture 3 to rotate the platform 1 on its pads 11, 12 and bring the wheels 15, 16 into contact with the ground. Due to the small distance separating the wheels 15, 16 from the ground, in the position initial represented in picture 3 , a slight manual pivoting of the platform is enough to allow it to be moved on wheels.

As it appears in particular in figure 4 , the surface of the floor 19, the surface of the workspace, and the shelves 25, 26 are inscribed in the support polygon of the platform 1, defined by the non-slip pads 11-14. These provisions greatly reduce the risk of the platform tipping over during use.

The general structure of a gate is shown in figure 6 .

In the embodiment shown in figure 1 and 2 , the gate comprises a hoop 40, for example formed by bending or bending a metal tube. A first upper end 41 of the hoop 40 is rotatably mounted around the pivot axis of the leaf. A second lower end 42 of the hoop 40 is also rotatably mounted around the pivot axis 43 of the leaf.

In the embodiment shown, the pivot axis 43 of the leaf is formed by a tubular part, advantageously made with a tube similar to that used for the manufacture of the side members 4, 5, 8, 9 and/or the heddles 23, 24.

A first upper connecting piece 44 forms a hinge and ensures the pivoting mounting on the axis 43 of the first end 41 of the hoop 40.

In the embodiment shown, the first connecting piece 44 comprises a projection 45 fitted into the first end 41 of the hoop 40, this fitting being completed by screwing through a hole 46 provided in the hoop 40, and a hole 47 opposite in the connecting piece 44.

A second lower connecting piece 48 also forms a hinge and ensures the pivoting mounting on the axis 43 of the second end 42 of the hoop 40.

In the embodiment shown, the second connecting piece 48 comprises a projection 49 fitted into the second end 42 of the hoop 40, this fitting being completed by screwing through a hole 50 provided in the hoop 40, and a hole 51 opposite in the connecting piece 44.

The possible movements for the leaf are determined by control devices, protected by a shell.

In the embodiment shown, the shell is formed by the assembly by screwing of two half-shells 52, 53. This assembly allows intervention on the control devices, for a possible maintenance operation. Other modes of assembly of the two half-shells can be implemented, such as for example riveting, gluing, welding.

The control devices are represented in figure 8 and following. The first connecting piece 44 comprises a tubular part 60 for mounting on the axis 43. The wall of this tubular part 60 is provided with a slot forming a cam path 61 for a pin extending laterally projecting on the axis 43, the cam-forming pin. The pawn is for example a screw head.

The cam track 61 comprises a first upper segment 63, a second lower segment 64, and a connecting segment 65 between the upper and lower segments 63, 64.

In the embodiment shown, the first upper segment 63 extends parallel to a plane perpendicular to the axis 43, over an angular sector of substantially 90°. The second lower segment 64 extends parallel to a plane perpendicular to the axis 43, over an angular sector of substantially 90°.

In other embodiments, the first segment and/or the second segment are inclined with respect to a plane transverse to the axis 43. The movement of the cam in the cam track is then facilitated by the leaf's own weight. . When the user releases the leaf, the simple weight of the leaf causes it to return to the closed position, or facilitates the return of the leaf to the closed position.

Such an embodiment is shown in figure 16 and 17 .

The connecting segment 65 allows the pin forming a cam, carried by the axis 43, to pass from the race delimited by the first upper segment 63 of the cam track 61 to that delimited by the second lower segment 64 of the cam track 61.

In other words, the cam track 61 is stepped, two-stage.

The first upper segment 63 of the cam track 61 is followed by the pin forming a cam when the leaf 27, 28 is in the low position, pivoting towards the interior of the work space. The pivoting stroke is defined by the angular sector over which this first segment 63 extends, and is advantageously 90°.

The second lower segment 64 of the cam track 61 is followed by the pin forming a cam when the leaf 27, 28 is in the high position, pivoting outwards from the work space. The pivoting travel is defined by the angular sector over which this second segment 64 extends, and is advantageously 90°.

In the embodiment shown, a vertical action from bottom to top, on the leaf 27, 28, causes the rise of the part 44 along the axis 43, the pin passing in the connecting segment 65, and then being able to travel the second lower segment 64 of the cam track 61. To facilitate handling, a gripping zone can be provided on the leaf 27, 28. This gripping zone is for example an elastomer sleeve attached to the hoop 40.

This vertical action on the leaf 27, 28 takes place against a first return means.

In the embodiment shown, this first return means is mechanical and comprises a spring.

Other return means can be implemented, in particular pneumatic, hydraulic means, or mechanical means other than a spring.

When the pin projecting on the axis 43 enters the upper segment 63 of the cam path 61, the leaf can be moved by opening towards the interior of the workspace.

The extreme open position of the leaf towards the inside of the working space is reached when the pin carried by the axis 43 reaches the stop 66 defined by a first end of the upper segment 63 of the cam track.

Maintaining the leaf in the open position, towards the inside of the working space, takes place against a second return means.

In the embodiment shown, the second biasing means comprises a spring.

Other return means can be implemented, in particular pneumatic, hydraulic means, or mechanical means other than a spring.

When the user no longer holds the leaf, the second return means causes the leaf to return to its closed position, substantially corresponding to the figure 8 . If no effort is exerted on the leaf, the first return means maintains in the first segment 63 the pin carried by the axis 43.

The leaf cannot then open outwards, the pin being in abutment against a second end 67 of the first segment 63.

The leaf can on the other hand be opened inwards, for example during the ascent of the user in the platform.

Starting from the closed position of the gate shown in figure 8 , when the user exerts a vertical force from the bottom upwards on the leaf 27, 28, the pin passes through the connecting segment 65 and enters the second lower segment 64 of the cam path 61.

The door can then be opened towards the outside of the workstation, against a third return means.

In the embodiment shown, this third return means is mechanical and comprises a spring.

Other return means can be implemented, in particular pneumatic, hydraulic means, or mechanical means other than a spring.

When the user no longer retains the gate, the leaf returns to its closed position.

The cam track thus comprises a first upper segment 63, a second lower segment 64 and a connecting segment 65 between the upper segment 63 and the lower segment 64.

The stroke of the cam in the lower segment 64 defines a first angular movement of the leaf 27, 28 of the gate against a third return means.

The stroke of the cam in the upper segment 63 defines a second angular movement of the leaf 27, 28 of the gate against a second return means.

The actuation of the leaf 27, 28 makes it possible to move the cam in the connecting segment 65, against a first return means. Advantageously, a single means, for example mechanical, performs the three recall functions.

In the embodiment shown, this mechanical means is in the form of a spring 70.

The spring 70 is of the torsion spring type, comprising a first group of turns 71 and a second group of turns 72, separated by a connection zone 73.

The spring 70 includes a first free end 74 and a second free end 75.

The spring 70 is coaxially mounted on the outside of a support tube 76.

The support tube 76 comprises a first transverse slot 77 in which the first free end 74 of the spring is placed. The support tube 76 comprises a second transverse slot 78 in which is placed the second free end 75 of the spring.

The shaft 43 includes a lower part 43a and an upper part 43b. The tube 76 is fixed in position relative to the lower part 43a, for example by a pin passing through a hole 79. The upper part 43b of the shaft 43 carries the pin forming a cam.

Each half-shell includes a reservation 54, 55, forming a housing for the connecting zone 73, when the two half-shells are assembled.

Each half-shell comprises means holding them in a fixed position on the connecting part 44. These means comprise for example internal projections 56, 57 on the half-shells, which are housed in corresponding reservations 58, 59 in the connecting part 44.

As shown in the figures, the first group of coils 71 of the spring 70 is placed in compression. The spring 70 thus ensures a return to the bottom of the gate leaf, as soon as the manual action on the leaf 27, 28 ceases.

When the user pulls on the wings 27, 28, from bottom to top, and pivots the wings 27, 28 towards the outside of the platform, the hoop 40/connecting piece 44/half-shells 52 assembly , 53 is driven in pivoting about the vertical axis of the shaft 43. The part 73 of the spring 70, locked in its reservation in the shell, is driven in rotation. This rotation possibly causes a slight sliding of the free end 74 of the spring in the slot 77, followed by the stressing of the coils 71.

When the user performs a pivoting maneuver of the gate inwards, the hoop 40/connecting piece 44/half-shells 52, 53 assembly is driven in pivoting about the vertical axis of the shaft 43. The part 73 of spring 70, blocked in its reservation in the shell, is rotated. This rotation eventually causes a slight sliding of the free end 75 of the spring in the slot 78, followed by the stressing of the coils 72.

The stiffness of the first group of turns 71 may be different from that of the second group of turns 72.

The invention has many advantages.

When the platform is in the deployed position, the user causes the gate to open when he climbs the steps, and the gate closes automatically behind the user installed at the workstation. The user is familiar with this operation.

When the user wants to get off the workstation, he can either open the gate inwards, or exert a vertical pull on the leaf to allow the gate to open outwards, for example when the workstation is crowded.

Claims (11)

1. A gate leaf (27, 28) for a work-at-height platform, this gate comprising:

   - a rotational axis forming shaft (43) of the gate;

   - a loose-joint hinge (44) rotatably mounted relative to the shaft; the shaft carrying a cam and the loose-joint hinge (44) carrying a cam race in which said cam moves during a pivoting movement of the gate, characterised in that the cam race comprises an upper first segment (63), a lower second segment (64) and a connecting segment (65) between the upper first segment (63) and lower second segment (64), the stroke of the cam in the lower second segment (64) defining a first angular displacement of the gate leaf against a return means, the stroke of the cam in the upper first segment (63) defining a second angular displacement of the gate leaf against a return means, a control member enabling the cam to be moved in the connecting segment (65), against a return means.
2. The gate leaf (27, 28) according to claim 1, characterised in that the cam is formed by a pin projecting on the rotational axis forming shaft, the cam race being formed by a blockout in the loose-joint hinge (44).
3. The gate leaf (27, 28) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the loose-joint hinge (44) comprises a tubular sleeve for mounting to the rotational axis forming shaft, the cam race being formed by a port provided in the wall of the sleeve.
4. The gate leaf (27, 28) according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the upper first segment (63) of the cam race extends over an angular sector of between 20° and 90°, and preferably extends over 90°.
5. The gate leaf (27, 28) according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the lower second segment (64) of the cam race extends over an angular sector of between 20° and 90°, and preferably extends over 90°.
6. The gate leaf (27, 28) according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the displacement of the gate leaf are made against mechanical return means.
7. The gate leaf (27, 28) according to claim 6, characterised in that the mechanical return means comprise a torsion spring (70).
8. The gate leaf (27, 28) according to any of claims 6 to 7, characterised in that the return means and the loose-joint hinge (44) are housed into a shell formed by assembling two half-shells (52, 53).
9. A work-at-height platform (1) comprising a gate leaf (27, 28) according to any of the preceding claims, the platform having a lifting plane or two lifting planes.
10. The work-at-height platform (1) comprising a two-leaf gate, each of both leaves being as set forth in any of claims 1 to 8.
11. The work-at-height platform (1) according to claim 9 or 10, the platform being an individual rolling platform IRP, or a lightweight individual rolling platform.

Images