EP3940189A1 - Device for working at height with articulated railing and automatic gate - Google Patents

Abstract

Device for working at height comprising a workstation, a first base forming a rise plane (2) at the workstation and a second support base (3), the rise plane comprising two beams (4, 5) and at the at least one step (6, 7), the workstation being provided with a floor (19), a guardrail, and a means of closing access to the workstation, the guardrail comprising an upper rail (24) and a lower rail (23), the upper rail being pivotally mounted with respect to the rails of the ascent plane, the guardrail and the means for closing access to the workstation being movable between a folded position in which the top rail is substantially parallel to the ascent plane, and a deployed position in which the top rail is substantially horizontal, the means for closing access to the workstation comprising a leaf (27, 28) , characterized in that in the deployed position, the leaf is pivotable with respect to to the top rail and to the bottom rail around a substantially vertical axis of rotation (43), the pivot axis of the leaf being mounted in articulation to the top rail by a first articulation means (31), the pivot axis of the leaf being hinged to the bottom rail by a second means (32) of articulation.

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 then 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, standard NF P 93-352 provides that a locking system for the mobile closure is mandatory.

The document FR2914683 shows an example of PIR.

A light rolling individual platform is conventionally a secure workstation compliant with standard NF P 93-353. A light rolling individual platform is then 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 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 means have been proposed in the prior art, for the articulation of the means of protection against falls.

According to a first design, the guardrail comprises an upper rail articulated to the two rails of the ascent plane, the upper rail being articulated to the floor by two rods, each rod being mounted articulated on the upper rail by a sliding collar, the sliding of the collar on the upper rail taking place during the folding or unfolding of the platform. Such a design is described by the documents EP2078819 (AUDINNOV), EP2738345 (AUDINNOV), EP3015640 (AUDINNOV), FR2918408 (AUDINNOV), FR3027942 (AUDINNOV), FR3067742 (AUDINNOV).

This first design has drawbacks.

First, access to the platform is achieved by temporarily pushing back the connecting rods by sliding their collars. It is common for splashes of coatings or other products to reach the platform when using it. The presence of such deposits can hinder or even make the sliding movement of the collars impossible.

Secondly, as soon as the user is on the platform, the connecting rods must be brought back manually to the rear locked position. It has been found that some users consider this manual movement of the connecting rods to be unnecessary and a waste of time.

According to a second design, the platform is provided with an automatically opening gate, each of the two leaves of the gate being pivotally mounted on a connecting rod, the connecting rod being mounted hinged to the upper rail and to a spar of the ascent plane. The connecting rod comprises two telescopic elements between a deployed position of the platform and a compact storage position of the platform.

This second design is presented in the documents US10138679 (WING), CN210396601U , CN110185380 (SUZHOU).

This second design has drawbacks.

In particular, it is common for projections of coatings or other products to reach the platform during its use. The presence of such deposits can hinder or even make impossible the telescopic sliding movement of the connecting rods.

According to a third design, the platform comprises a lower smooth and an upper smooth, the two smooth being hinged to the plane of ascent and state connected to each other by two parallel lateral rods, the lower smooth being connected to the floor by two other rods. A movable U-shaped rail is hinged to the upper rail and rests at an angle on the lower rail. Such a design is described in the document FR2920815 (TUBESCA).

This third design has drawbacks.

In particular, to access the floor, the operator must raise the moving arm to enter the platform. This manual operation is not easy, especially when the operator is carrying loads or has his hands full. A similar drawback exists for the platform described in the document DE102013005324 (HYMER).

Most means of mobile closure of access to the workstation of platforms, and in particular PIRs or PIRLs, do not offer sufficient security for the operator.

This is the case in particular when the closure means are formed of a simple chain or a strap, as presented for example in the documents EP3095952 (HRC), FR3066223 (HRC), EP1921249 (ZARGES), or when the closing means are formed of a bar, as proposed in the documents EP2818625 (HRC), WO2019/170141 (CGS), DE202007000406 (HYMER), CN209385045U (POSH), EP2868859 (TUBESCA), or even when the closing means are formed of semi-rigid heddles, as presented for example in the documents FR3005986 (HRC), FR3005987 (HRC). 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 the safety of the user, certain manufacturers of height access devices offer steps, platforms or ladders with a work platform, access to the platform of which is automatically closed by a 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 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.

There is also a risk that the gate, during its return to the closed position from its open position towards the inside of the workstation, hits the back or the head of the user who descends from the platform.

A second drawback is that the access gate most often extends in a plane parallel to the plane of the climb. Such a configuration is present for example in the platforms described by the documents CN206722749U (SHIYA), CN103233675 (SUZHOU), CN203308371U (SUZHOU), CN203308376U (SUZHOU), US9663989 (WING).

This arrangement of the access gate parallel to the ascent plane is not ergonomic. The opening of the gate is caused by the feet and legs of the user when moving on the ascent plane.

The user can engage and block his foot in the gate with the risk of imbalance and falling.

The invention aims in particular to overcome the drawbacks of the platforms of the prior art, by proposing a new railing structure adapted to the platforms, in particular to the PIR or PIRL, or the platforms used for placing products on the shelves.

For these purposes, the invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a device for working at height comprising a workstation, a first base forming a rise plane to the workstation and a second support base, the climb comprising two stringers and at least one step, the workstation being provided with a floor, a guardrail, and a means of closing access to the workstation, the guardrail comprising a top rail and a bottom rail, the top rail being pivotally mounted with respect to the rails of the ascent plane, the guardrail and the means for closing access to the workstation being movable between a folding position in which the rail upper is substantially parallel to the ascent plane, and a deployed position in which the upper rail is substantially horizontal, the means for closing access to the workstation comprising a leaf, the device being such that in the deployed position, the leaf t is pivotable with respect to the upper rail and to the lower rail around a substantially vertical axis of rotation, the pivot axis of the leaf being mounted in articulation with the upper rail by a first articulation means, the pivot axis of the leaf being hinged to the bottom rail by a second hinge means.

Advantageously, the top rail is articulated to the rails of the ascent plane by a third articulation means, the lower rail being articulated to the second support base by a fourth articulation means, the four articulation means forming the vertices of a deformable quadrilateral.

Advantageously, the deformable quadrilateral comprises a first segment, of length L1, between the first means and the third means of articulation; a second segment, of length L2, between the first articulation means and the second articulation means; a third segment, of length L3, between the third means and the fourth articulation means, and a fourth segment, of length L4, between the second articulation means and the fourth articulation means, the sum of the lengths of the first and of the second segment L1+L2 being substantially equal to the sum of the lengths of the third and of the fourth segment L3+L4.

• un arbre formant l'axe de rotation du battant ;
• une paumelle montée en rotation par rapport à l'arbre ;

l'arbre portant une came et la paumelle portant un chemin de came dans lequel ladite came se déplace lors du mouvement de pivotement du battant, le chemin de came comprenant un premier segment supérieur, un deuxième segment inférieur et un segment de liaison entre le premier segment supérieur et le deuxième segment inférieur, la course de la came dans le deuxième segment inférieur définissant un premier débattement angulaire du battant à l'encontre d'un moyen de rappel, la course de la came dans le premier segment supérieur définissant un second débattement angulaire du battant à l'encontre d'un moyen de rappel, un organe de commande permettant de déplacer la came dans le segment de liaison, à l'encontre d'un moyen de rappel.Advantageously, the leaf comprises:

• a shaft forming the axis of rotation of the leaf;
• a hinge rotatably mounted 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 leaf, the cam track comprising a first upper segment, a second lower segment and a connecting segment between the first upper segment and the second lower segment, the stroke of the cam in the second lower segment defining a first angular deflection of the leaf against a return means, the stroke of the cam in the first upper segment defining a second deflection angle of the leaf against a return means, a control member making it possible to move the cam in the connecting segment, against a return means.

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

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

In some implementations, the deflections of the leaf take place against mechanical return means.

The invention relates, according to a second aspect, to a device as presented above, the device being an individual rolling platform PIR, or a light rolling individual platform.

• 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 ;
• les figures 16 à 21 sont des vues latérales de la plateforme du type représenté en figures 1 à 5, illustrant la cinématique de pliage du garde-corps ;
• les figures 22 et 23 sont des vues latérales de la plateforme du type représenté en figures 1 à 5, illustrant la cinématique de pliage des deux piètements, après pliage du garde-corps.

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 picture 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 figures 16 to 21 are side views of the platform of the type shown in figures 1 to 5 , illustrating the folding kinematics of the guardrail;
• the figure 22 and 23 are side views of the platform of the type shown in figures 1 to 5 , illustrating the folding kinematics of the two legs, after folding the guardrail.

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 comprising 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, not shown, each of the two longitudinal members of the stand carries a wheel, allowing the platform to be moved, in the deployed position for 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, the side members 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, 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 comprises a U-shaped crosspiece to facilitate the passage of an obstacle such as a toilet bowl, the spacing of the sections lower 8a, 9a facilitates the positioning of the platform above the obstacle.

The platform 1 comprises a horizontal floor 19.

In the embodiment shown, 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 beams 4, 5 of the ascent plane 2 and of the beams 8, 9 of the crutch.

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, the guardrail is formed of bent or bent tubes.

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

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 lower smooth 23 and an upper smooth 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 schematized in figure 23 .

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 vis-à-vis a side fall or a fall forward, that is to say substantially over 270°.

Complete security of the work space, over 360°, is advantageously provided by the presence of an automatic access gate, or any other means of closing access to the work space.

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 falling backwards.

In the embodiment shown, the gate has a double leaf, the two leaves 27, 28 being of similar structure and mirroring each other with respect to a vertical plane. For this reason, in the remainder of this description, only one of the two leaves 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 can advantageously comprise an automatic gate which can be opened outwards, with single or double leaf, or any other device for closing access to the work space.

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.

By "substantially vertically" is meant here the fact that the leaves of the gate (or any other device for closing the workspace) extends vertically or in a plane forming an angle of a few degrees with the vertical, when the platform is in the deployed position.

The leaves 27, 28 are hinged to the top rail 24, by a first hinge means 31.

The wings 27, 28 are hinged to the bottom rail 23 by a second hinge means 32.

The upper stringer 24 is articulated to the upper section 4b, 5b of the longitudinal members 4, 5 of the ascent plane, by a third articulation means 33.

The bottom rail 23 is articulated to the second base 2 by a fourth articulation means 34.

The four articulation means 31-34 form a quadrilateral, deformable between a deployed position ( figure 1 ) and a folded position (Figure 33).

In the rest of this description, L1, L2, L3, and L4 designate four lengths or spacings, measured respectively between the first means 31 and the third means 33 of articulation (length L1), between the first means 31 and the second means 32 of articulation (length L2), between the third means 33 and the fourth means 34 of articulation (length L3), and between the second means 32 and the fourth means 34 of articulation (length L4).

Advantageously, the lengths L1-L4 are such that the sum L1+L2 is substantially equal to the sum L3+L4.

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 initial position shown 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, the gate comprises a hoop 40, for example formed by bending or folding 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 of 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 pin forming a cam. 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, not shown, 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 proper leaf 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.

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 workspace. 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 the bottom upwards on the leaf 27, 28 causes the part 44 to rise along the axis 43, the pin passing through the connecting segment 65, and then being able to traverse the second lower segment 64 of 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 path.

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 force is exerted on the leaf, the first return means ensures that the pin carried by the pin 43 is held in the first segment 63.

The leaf can then no longer 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, the 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 pivots the gate inwards, the hoop 40/connecting piece 44/half-shells 52, 53 assembly is pivoted around the vertical axis of the shaft 43.

Part 73 of spring 70, blocked in its reservation in the shell, is rotated. This rotation possibly 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.

We now refer to figures 16 to 23 which illustrate the folding kinematics of a platform of the type shown in figures 1 to 15 . For simplicity, the wheels 15, 16 are not shown on the figures 16 to 23 . Handles 29, 30 are also omitted.

In the deployed state schematized in figure 16 , the ascent plane is inclined relative to the vertical, the floor 19 is horizontal, as are the upper rail 24 and the lower rail 23, and the gate leaves (or any other device for closing the work space) extend substantially along a vertical plane.

By “substantially” is meant here the fact that the device for closing the workspace advantageously extends vertically, or along a plane inclined a few degrees with respect to the vertical.

As indicated above, the guardrail is articulated by four means 31-34 of articulation, arranged at the vertices of a deformable quadrilateral.

The four segments of the deformable quadrilateral are fictitious lines.

By “fictitious” is meant here the fact that the segments are not entirely formed by material elements of the platform.

A first segment of this quadrilateral, of length L1, is mainly defined by the upper rail 24, between the first means 31 and the third means 33 of articulation. This first segment is movable between a substantially horizontal position, when the guardrail is deployed, and an inclined position, substantially parallel to the ascent plane 2, when the guardrail is folded.

A second segment of this quadrilateral, of length L2, is mainly defined by the device for closing the work space, for example an automatic gate, between the first means 31 and the second means 32 of articulation. This second segment is movable between a substantially vertical position, when the guardrail is deployed, and an inclined position, substantially parallel to the ascent plane 2, when the guardrail is folded.

A third segment of this quadrilateral, of length L3, is mainly defined by the upper sections 4b, 5b of the longerons 4, 5 of the ascent plane, between the third means 33 and the fourth means 34 of articulation.

A fourth segment of this quadrilateral, of length L4, is a fictitious line joining the second means 32 and the fourth means 34 of articulation.

The bottom rail 23 has a bend 35 between a front section 36 and a horizontal section 37. The second hinge means 32 and the fourth hinge means 34 are not placed at the same height.

As indicated previously, the lengths L1-L4 of the four segments of the deformable quadrilateral are advantageously such that the sum of the lengths of the first two segments L1+L2 is substantially equal to the sum of the lengths of the other two segments L3+L4.

Advantageously, a locking means maintains the guardrail in the deployed position. After manual actuation of this command, the guardrail can be folded up, as shown in figures 16 to 21 .

The two legs 2, 3 can then be brought closer to each other, with the floor 19 pivoting, as shown in figure 22 and 23 , for moving or storing the platform 1.

When folding the guardrail, the gate leaves gradually pivot from their vertical deployed position ( figure 16 ), to their folded position parallel to the ascent plane ( figure 21 and following). The top rail gradually pivots from its horizontal deployed position ( figure 16 ), to its fallback position parallel to the ascent plane ( figure 21 and following).

The folding kinematics of the guardrail has many advantages.

The leaves of the gate are arranged substantially vertically, when the guardrail is in the deployed position.

A larger working space is offered, compared to the platforms of the prior art in which the gate extends parallel to the inclined plane of ascent.

No sliding or telescoping movement is advantageously implemented during the folding or unfolding of the platform.

The folding/unfolding kinematics is particularly advantageous when the gate opens as described.

Indeed, 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 opening of the gate towards the interior of the work space is advantageously obtained by the contact of the pelvis and the user's chest, during his ascent from the ascent plane.

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 (8)

Device for working at height comprising a workstation, a first base forming an ascent plane (2) to the workstation and a second support base (3), the ascent plane (2) comprising two beams (4, 5 ) and at least one step (6, 7), the workstation being provided with a floor (19), a guardrail, and a means of closing access to the workstation, the railing comprising an upper rail (24) and a lower rail (23), the upper rail (24) being pivotally mounted with respect to the side members (4, 5) of the ascent plane (2), the railing and the means for closing access to the workstation being movable between a folded position in which the top rail (24) is substantially parallel to the ascent plane (2), and a deployed position in which the top rail (24) is substantially horizontal, the means for closing access to the workstation comprising a leaf (27, 28), characterized in that in the deployed position, the The leaf (27, 28) is pivotable with respect to the upper rail (24) and to the lower rail (23) about a substantially vertical axis of rotation (43), the pivot axis of the leaf being mounted in articulation to the upper rail (24) by a first means (31) of articulation, the pivot axis of the leaf being mounted in articulation to the lower rail (23) by a second means (32) of articulation. Device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the upper stringer (24) is articulated to the side members (4, 5) of the ascent plane (2) by a third means (33) of articulation, the lower stringer (23) being articulated to the second support base (3) by a fourth articulation means (34), the four articulation means (31-34) forming the vertices of a deformable quadrilateral. Device according to Claim 2, characterized in that the deformable quadrilateral comprises a first segment, of length L1, between the first means (31) and the third means (33) of articulation; a second segment, of length L2, between the first means (31) of articulation and the second means (32) of articulation; a third segment, of length L3, between the third means (33) and the fourth means (34) of articulation, and a fourth segment, of length L4, between the second articulation means (32) and the fourth articulation means (34), the sum of the lengths of the first and of the second segment L1+L2 being substantially equal to the sum of the lengths of the third and of the fourth segment L3+L4 . Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the leaf (27, 28) comprises: - a shaft forming the axis of rotation (43) of the leaf; - a hinge (44) rotatably mounted relative to the shaft; the shaft carrying a cam and the hinge (44) carrying a cam track in which said cam moves during the pivoting movement of the leaf, the cam track comprising a first upper segment (63), a second segment (64) lower and a connecting segment (65) between the first upper segment (63) and the second lower segment (64), the stroke of the cam in the second lower segment (64) defining a first angular deflection of the leaf against a return means, the stroke of the cam in the first upper segment (63) defining a second angular movement of the leaf against a return means, a control member allowing the cam to be moved in the segment link (65), against a biasing means. Device according to Claim 4, characterized in that the first upper segment (63) of the cam track extends over an angular sector comprised between 20° and 90°, and preferably extends over 90°. Device according to Claim 4 or 5, characterized in that the second lower segment (64) of the cam track extends over an angular sector comprised between 20° and 90°, and preferably extends over 90°. Device according to Claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the deflections of the leaf take place against mechanical return means. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the device is a rolling individual platform PIR, or a light rolling individual platform.

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