EP4176773A1 - Lifting evaporator - Google Patents

Abstract

Counter (1) for displaying goods, the counter (1) comprising at least one loading zone (6) which comprises at least one tray (7), the counter (1) being characterized in that it comprises a system (15 ) elevation of the tray (7) relative to the frame (2) in a vertical direction between two extreme positions: - a presentation position, in which the tray (7) is located at a height less than or equal to the height of said upper longitudinal rim (3a), - a loading/unloading position, in which the tray (7) is located at a height greater than the height of said upper longitudinal rim (3a).

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of merchandise display counters.

More specifically, the invention relates to a refrigerated counter, also called MFV for Meuble Frigorifique de Vente, that is to say comprising a system making it possible to maintain the goods presented at low temperature.

TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

In the field of goods presentation counters, it is known to use a refrigeration device in order to maintain goods intended in particular for consumption at a low temperature, while leaving the goods on the one hand visible to customers, and on the other hand easily accessible for staff for example serving the customer. This type of display is used in particular at trade fairs or directly in shops, for all types of consumable goods: pastries, meats, fish, charcuterie, fruits and vegetables, etc.

Typically, such a counter therefore comprises a tray on which the goods to be presented are arranged, a customer side provided with a window blocking access to the goods while leaving them visible, and a personal side generally unobstructed or provided with doors, to easy and direct access to goods.

In order to maintain the goods at a given temperature, generally lower than the ambient temperature, the counter includes a refrigeration device. According to a widespread example, the refrigeration device is based on air circulation between a zone located under the plate, and a zone located above the plate, where the goods are located: a cold exchanger, for example of the type evaporator, is placed under the tray, and a ventilation system provides air circulation to the goods on the tray.

The document DE7907471 describes an example of such a counter. According to the example of this document, the refrigeration device comprises a finned evaporator fixed under the merchandise display tray and acting as a heat exchanger.

A common problem with this type of counter is the cleanliness of the area under the top. Indeed, liquids coming from the goods on the plate, but also fluids, such as liquids and/or fats, carried away by the circulation of air, are found under the plate. A tank is then generally provided under the plate to recover the liquids and fluids. In order to guarantee hygiene and maintain the air quality of the goods, the tank should therefore be cleaned regularly.

In order to prevent the evaporator from interfering with cleaning, the document DE7907471 aforementioned proposes to fix the evaporator to the plate, and to lift the plate by tilting it. Thus, the tank is accessible for thorough cleaning.

However, this solution does not provide complete satisfaction.

Indeed, in order to ensure the circulation of air around the goods on the tray, the ventilation system generally has openings, to allow a breath of air to pass, which are located just above the tray, at most near this one. These openings, generally called chimneys, are generally arranged on a wall on the personal side, so that on the customer side, no wall hides the goods. Thus, on the personal side, the tray is below a rim called a backsplash, while on the customer side, the tray is flush with a rim. As a result, to load and/or unload the tray, in particular at the start and end of service, the staff must bend over the backsplash, in an uncomfortable position. This discomfort is particularly increased by the weight of the goods which can reach several kilos.

To access under the plate and clean the tank, the tilting of the plate obliges the personnel to unload the goods of the plate. Thus, the cleaning of the tank is generally possible only at the beginning or at the end of the service. Cleaning in case of specific need during the service is tedious, and will cause a stoppage of the service for a significant period of time.

In addition, near the pivot connection allowing the tilting, the evaporator may not be far enough from the tank, so that the cleaning of the tank at this point is not optimal, and the hygiene of the goods n is no longer guaranteed.

The document EP0830827 offers a counter whose top can be lowered to improve cooling, and raised to an optimal height for customers and staff. However, even lifted, the discomfort for the personnel remains, the tray having to remain low in relation to the rim on the personnel side in order to guarantee good visibility on the customer side.

There is therefore a need to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks.

Thus, according to a first aspect, the invention proposes a merchandise presentation counter comprising a device for controlling the temperature of the merchandise which guarantees optimum hygiene.

According to a second aspect, the invention proposes a counter facilitating full access to the area located under the top.

According to a third aspect, the invention proposes a counter guaranteeing optimal visibility of the goods presented on the tray.

According to a fourth aspect, the invention proposes a counter increasing the comfort of the personnel for loading and unloading the goods.

According to a fifth aspect, the invention proposes a counter making it possible to clean under the tray even when the goods are loaded on it.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Thus, according to a first aspect, the invention relates to a merchandise display counter. The counter typically comprises at least one frame intended to rest on the ground and at least one loading zone intended to receive the goods. The loading zone comprises at least one platform defining, in the loading zone, an upper side and a lower side on either side of the platform. The counter further includes a temperature control device, the temperature control device being located at least in part on the underside of the table top and being attached at least in part to the table top. The goods are then intended to be placed on the upper side of the board. The frame comprises at least one said upper longitudinal rim.

• Une première position dite de présentation, dans laquelle le plateau est situé à une hauteur inférieure ou égale à la hauteur dudit rebord longitudinal supérieur,
• Une deuxième position dite de chargement / déchargement, dans laquelle le plateau est situé à une hauteur supérieure à la hauteur dudit rebord longitudinal supérieur,

The counter further comprises a system for raising the top relative to the frame in a vertical direction between two extreme positions:

• A first so-called presentation position, in which the tray is located at a height less than or equal to the height of said upper longitudinal edge,
• A second so-called loading/unloading position, in which the platform is located at a height greater than the height of said upper longitudinal edge,

It should be noted that the inclination of the plate relative to the vertical direction is maintained between the two extreme positions. This inclination is for example substantially horizontal.

In this way, in the loading/unloading position of the tray, the tray and said upper longitudinal edge define an access space for at least part of the refrigeration device on the lower side of the loading zone.

The counter thus makes it easier to clean the lower side of the loading area for an optimal level of hygiene, while facilitating loading and/or unloading the tray for an operator by lifting the tray. In particular, it is common to find under the plate a tank fixed to the frame, which requires regular maintenance. Thus, the placing in the loading/unloading position facilitates the cleaning of the tank.

According to various aspects, it is possible to provide one and/or the other of the characteristics below taken alone or in combination.

According to one embodiment, at least one upper longitudinal rim is a first upper longitudinal rim located at a first height. The frame then comprises a second upper longitudinal rim located at a second height greater than the first height. The first rim is typically located on one side of the counter, called the customer side, and the second rim is located on a so-called personal side, opposite the customer side. Thus, in the loading/unloading position, the plate is in a position approaching the second upper longitudinal edge, facilitating the work of an operator.

According to this embodiment, in the loading/unloading position, the plate can be at a height substantially equal to the second height. In this case, advantageously, the second upper longitudinal edge may comprise a backsplash. The goods can then easily be transferred from the backrest to the platform, and vice versa, reducing the difficulty for the operator.

According to one embodiment, the temperature control device is a cooling device and may comprise at least one evaporator fixed to the lower side of the loading zone, such that the evaporator follows the tray between the presentation position and the loading/unloading position. Thus, a lower side of the evaporator is fully accessible for cleaning, guaranteeing a good level of hygiene in the loading area of the counter. In combination, the tray may be partially removable so as to provide access to an upper side of the evaporator, again for cleaning. More precisely, the plate can comprise a frame on which the plates are assembled in a reversible manner, that is to say they can be easily disassembled and reassembled. For example, the plates are removably attached to the tray frame.

According to one embodiment, the elevation system may comprise a single cylinder mounted between the plate and the frame and a guide assembly of the plate relative to the frame. These provisions make it possible to limit the number of devices controlled and sensitive to the conditions of the loading zone, in order to move the platform while keeping it at the same inclination, that is to say substantially horizontal. These arrangements also make it possible to move the tray between its two positions while being loaded with goods.

According to one embodiment, the actuator and the guide assembly can vertically guide the tray between the presentation position and the loading/unloading position in a direction inclined with respect to the vertical direction, so as not to interfere with other counter elements.

According to one embodiment, the counter may include a recovery tank placed on the underside of the tray. The elevation system then passes through the tank, and the counter comprises a sealing device between the guide assembly and the recovery tank as well as an orifice for passage of the jack through the tank. The ram passage orifice is then provided with a flange to prevent the fluids from escaping. Thus, any contact between the lifting system and the fluid of the tank is limited, preserving the longevity of the lifting system.

According to one embodiment, the elevation system may comprise a system of braces, the system of braces comprising at least one guide assembly with braces actuated by at least one actuator. In practice, the elevation system comprises two brace guide assemblies, at a distance from each other in the transverse direction which is adapted to ensure the stability of the plate and of the brace system. This distance is preferably a maximum distance with respect to the space under the plate. For example, the two guide assemblies are placed close to the longitudinal edges of the tray, under the tray. The brace system(s) offer good stability and great robustness when moving the tray, while limiting costs.

For example, the cylinder is a pneumatic cylinder or an electric cylinder, offering a good compromise between the constraints due to the environment of the loading area, the space in the counter, the stroke of the plate and the load of the plate to be moved. even when the tray is loaded with goods.

According to one embodiment, the counter may comprise a transparent window that is at least partially retractable when the tray is in the loading/unloading position so as to leave the access space on the lower side of the tray free at least in part. The window can extend to the client side to limit any contact between the client and/or his postillions and the goods on the tray.

According to one embodiment, at least a portion of the window is retractable by sliding relative to the frame in a vertical direction. More specifically, at least a portion of the window can assume a deployed position, in which it extends at least partly from the upper side of the loading area, and a retracted position in which it is inserted into a housing of the frame of loading / unloading so as to leave free at least partly the access space on the underside of the tray in the loading / unloading position. Thus, the window is simply slid to clean under the plate in the loading/unloading position, and does not hinder the operator in his cleaning operations. The glass is also protected from sudden movements by the operator during cleaning, which could damage the glass.

According to one embodiment, the inclination of the plate is substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction, that is to say horizontal, so that the goods do not slide on the plate. However, the tray can be slightly inclined to one side, for example on the customer side, in order to provide better visibility of the goods. The inclination is preferably limited so that the goods do not slide following the slope of the inclined plate.

According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for cleaning a counter according to any one of the preceding claims, which comprises placing the tray in the loading/unloading position (and inserting at least one cleaning in the access space for at least part of the refrigeration device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

• [Fig. 1] représente une vue tridimensionnelle d'un comptoir selon un mode de réalisation.
• [Fig. 2] représente une vue en coupe de côté du comptoir de la figure 1.
• [Fig. 3] représente un schéma cinématique d'un système d'élévation du plateau du comptoir des figure précédentes selon un premier mode de réalisation.
• [Fig. 4] représente une vue tridimensionnelle surélevée du plateau et du système d'élévation du comptoir des figures précédentes.
• [Fig. 5] représente de manière schématique une vue de dessus du système d'élévation avec le plateau partiellement retiré.
• [Fig. 6] représente de manière schématique une vue de côté du système d'élévation avec le plateau.
• [Fig. 7] est une vue de détail de la figure 2 illustrant le déplacement du plateau.
• [Fig. 8] est une vue en coupe, de détail, du comptoir de la figure 1 illustrant un bras de soutien intégré dans un dosseret.
• [Fig. 9] est une vue de trois-quarts d'un comptoir avec un système d'élévation selon un deuxième mode de réalisation.
• [Fig. 10] est une vue de côté du comptoir de la figure 9.
• [Fig.11] est une vue en coupe transversale du comptoir des figures 9 et 10.

Embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, briefly described below:

• [ Fig. 1 ] shows a three-dimensional view of a counter according to one embodiment.
• [ Fig. 2 ] shows a side sectional view of the counter of the figure 1 .
• [ Fig. 3 ] shows a kinematic diagram of a system for raising the counter top of the previous figures according to a first embodiment.
• [ Fig. 4 ] shows an elevated three-dimensional view of the top and counter elevation system of the previous figures.
• [ Fig. 5 ] schematically shows a top view of the elevation system with the tray partially removed.
• [ Fig. 6 ] schematically represents a side view of the elevation system with the platform.
• [ Fig. 7 ] is a detail view of the picture 2 illustrating the movement of the tray.
• [ Fig. 8 ] is a sectional view, detail, of the counter of the figure 1 illustrating a support arm integrated into a backsplash.
• [ Fig. 9 ] is a three-quarter view of a counter with an elevation system according to a second embodiment.
• [ Fig. 10 ] is a side view of the counter of the figure 9 .
• [ Fig.11 ] is a cross-sectional view of the counter of figure 9 And 10 .

In the drawings, identical references designate identical or similar objects.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

On the figure 1 , there is shown a counter 1 for presenting goods according to one embodiment of the invention.

The counter 1 comprises a frame 2 intended to rest on the ground, possibly on feet 2a. The frame 2 may include in particular a front facade 3 , a rear facade 4 and two side facades 5 , so as to surround a volume.

In what follows, a vertical direction is defined as being the direction substantially perpendicular to the ground when the frame 2 of the counter 1 rests on it by the feet 2a. We then use the terms superior, inferior, above, below and their variants in reference to the vertical direction and the natural orientation of the figure 1 And 2 in particular, on which the frame 2 rests on the ground.

The front panel 3 includes an upper longitudinal edge 3a and a lower longitudinal edge 3b . Similarly, the rear facade 4 comprises an upper longitudinal edge 4a and a lower longitudinal edge 4b . The front facade 3 is located on the customer side and the rear facade 4 is located on the staff side of the counter 1. The edges 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b each form, for example, an edge of the frame 2.

The adjective longitudinal designates here a horizontal direction substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction. The longitudinal flanges 4a, 4b, 3a, 3b thus extend in the longitudinal direction. They can be straight or curved. The adjective transversal designates in what follows the horizontal direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and to the vertical direction.

Similarly, the side facades 5 each define an upper transverse rim 5a and a lower transverse rim 5b.

The counter 1 comprises at least one loading zone 6 , framed by the upper longitudinal edges 3a, 4a, 5a, and which is equipped with at least one tray 7 which forms a display support for the goods. The plate 7 separates in the loading zone 6 a so-called upper side and a so-called lower side, with reference to the vertical direction, the upper side being intended to receive the goods to be presented. The plate 7 can be rectangular in shape.

The counter 1 further includes a system 8 for controlling the temperature of the goods in the loading zone 6 . Typically, the temperature control system 8 is a cooling system, making it possible to maintain the temperature in the loading zone 6 around a set temperature lower than the ambient temperature.

According to the example of the figures, the control system 8 comprises an evaporator 9 which may in particular be of the finned type, and one or more fans supported by a lower plate 10 , which ensures air circulation through grids 11 The evaporator 9 and the grid 10 are located on the lower side of the plate 7. The control system 8 further comprises an air chimney 12 on the upper side of the plate 7 to direct the air flow substantially parallel to the -above the plate 7 and in the direction of the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front panel 3, where the goods are located. Deflectors can also be arranged on the path of the air flow in order to guide it. For example, a deflector 11a can be placed along the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front facade 3 to guide the flow of air arriving from the upper side of the plate 7 towards the lower side.

Thus, the air is blown by the fans carried by the grid 10 under the plate 7, in the direction of the rear facade 4. The air flow is then guided on the upper side of the plate 7 both by the chimney 12 and by the grid 11 on the same side, so that the temperature above the plate 7 is uniform. Then the air flow is guided by the deflector 11a on the customer side towards the lower side of the tray 7.

In order to collect any fluids coming from the goods on the plate 7, the refrigeration device 8 also comprises a recovery tank 13 , located on the lower side of the plate 7, and under the evaporator 9 and the fan 10. The tank 13 is fixed to the frame 2, preferably rigidly, and in any case independently to the plate 7.

In order not to mask the visibility of the goods on the customer side, the chimney 12 is arranged on the personal side, so that the upper rim 4a of the rear facade 4 is located at a sufficient height to exceed the chimney.

The height here denotes the vertical distance to the ground when the frame 2 rests on the ground on the feet 2a.

The upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front panel 3 can then be at a height lower than that of the upper longitudinal edge 4a of the rear panel 4, so as to provide optimum visibility of the goods on the tray 7 from the customer side.

In other words, the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front panel 3 is located at a first height and the upper longitudinal edge 4a of the rear panel 4 is located at a second height higher than the first height.

According to the embodiment of the figures, the upper longitudinal edge 4a of the rear facade 4 comprises a backsplash 14 forming a support surface for the staff, for example to place goods there from the tray 7 to serve a customer or to lean on. to access the bottom of the tray on the client side. The backsplash 14 also extends partly above the chimney 12, and participates in guiding the flow of air above the goods on the tray 7.

When the goods on the plate 7 are offered to the customers, the plate 7 is substantially flush with the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front facade 3, or is at a slightly lower height, so that nothing hides the goods for the customers.

However, the plate 7 is then located below, at a height lower than that of the upper longitudinal edge 4a of the rear facade 4, so that to load and unload the plate 7 of the goods, the staff must bend down by- above the upper longitudinal edge 4a and the backsplash 14 of the rear facade 4, in an awkward position.

• une première position dite de présentation, dans laquelle le plateau 7 est situé à une hauteur inférieure ou égale à la première hauteur, c'est-à-dire qu'il est plus bas ou affleure le rebord 3a longitudinal supérieur de la façade 3 avant ;
• une deuxième position dite de chargement/déchargement, dans laquelle le plateau 7 est situé à une hauteur supérieure à la première hauteur.

According to the invention, the counter 1 further comprises a system 15 for raising the plate 7 relative to the frame 2, making it possible to move the plate 7 relative to the frame 2 at least in the vertical direction, that is to say in a direction which includes at least one vertical component, between two extreme positions:

• a first so-called presentation position, in which the plate 7 is located at a height less than or equal to the first height, that is to say that it is lower or flush with the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the facade 3 before ;
• a second so-called loading/unloading position, in which the plate 7 is located at a height greater than the first height.

The plate 7 retains, except for games, its inclination with respect to the vertical between the two positions. According to the example of the figures, the plate 7 is substantially flat horizontal, that is to say that its upper surface on which the goods are intended to be placed is substantially horizontal, and it remains substantially horizontal in the first position, the second position, and all intermediate positions. The goods placed on tray 7 are not in danger of sliding on tray 7

However, the plate 7 can be slightly inclined relative to the horizontal and/or curved. In this case, the height of the plate 7 must be understood as being the height measured on the point of the plate 7 closest to the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the facade 3 before.

Thus, in the presentation position, the goods on the plate 7 are perfectly visible on the customer side, while in the loading/unloading position, it is easier for the personnel to reach the plate.

In addition, in the loading/unloading position, the plate 7 is raised relative to the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front facade 3, so that the plate 7 and the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front facade 3 define a space of access from the lower side of the loading zone 6, under the plate 7. Thus, the loading zone 6 on the lower side is accessible from the customer side, and it is in particular easier to clean the tank 13.

More precisely, the plate 7 also moves with respect to the tank 13. For example, the tank 13 can remain stationary with respect to the plate 7 between the presentation position and the loading/unloading position, that is to say that it is rigidly fixed to the frame 2. However, the tank 13 can be movable to the frame 2, while being movable relative to the plate 7.

For example, the maximum stroke of the plate 7 is at least 200 mm, more preferably at least 250 mm, and for example equal to 280 mm.

According to one embodiment, the evaporator 9 is fixed to the plate 7 on the lower side, so that the evaporator 9 follows the movement of the plate 7 between the presentation position and the loading/unloading position. In other words, the evaporator 9 is liftable. The plate 7 retaining the same inclination by changing position, the evaporator 9 is thus fully raised relative to the tank 13 when the plate 7 is in the loading/unloading position, leaving the tank 13 completely free for optimal cleaning. No zone of the tank 13 is not reachable. A lower face of the evaporator 9 can also be cleaned more easily. In fact, the evaporator 9 fixed to the tray 7 lifts with the tray 7, so that its lower face is fully accessible for cleaning, guaranteeing a high level of hygiene. The evaporator 9 is then put back in place, in a suitable position to ensure the circulation of refrigerated air around the goods, when the tray 7 is returned to the presentation position.

Preferably, the plate 7 is formed by a frame 71 forming a support frame for one or more plates 72, fixed rigidly to the frame 71, and optionally in a removable manner, and on which the goods are placed. The evaporator 9 is fixed rigidly to the frame 71. Thus, the plates 72 can be easily removed to access an upper face of the evaporator 9 and clean it. This cleaning of the upper face is all the more facilitated when the plate 7 is in the loading/unloading position.

In addition, the armature 71 can form a protective box for the evaporator, and in particular for the edges of the evaporator 9 which are particularly sharp. Thus, when an operator for example passes his hand under the plate in the loading/unloading position to clean the evaporator 9, the risk of cuts is reduced.

The vertical distance between the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front facade 3 and the plate 7 when it is in the loading/unloading position is at least sufficient to insert a cleaning tool, such as a pipe fitted with a cleaning gun. spray and / or an operator's hand to clean the tank 13, which has not followed the movement of the plate 7. Preferably, the plate 7 remaining in a substantially horizontal position, its vertical distance with the tank 13 of separation is sufficient at all points to allow cleaning. This distance is of the order of 10 cm (centimeters) minimum, preferably at least 20 cm, and is for example 28 cm.

According to one embodiment, in the loading/unloading position, the plate 7 is flush, by its surface on the upper side, with the upper longitudinal edge 4a of the rear facade 4, and preferably, if necessary, can be flush, by its surface on the upper side, an upper surface of the backsplash 14, so that the staff can load and/or unload goods by sliding them between the backsplash and the plate 7. A vertical offset of a few millimeters, or even one or two centimeters, between the upper surface of the plate 7 and the upper surface of the backsplash 14 remains acceptable and always facilitates the loading and/or unloading of the goods on the plate 7 in the loading/unloading position. A horizontal gap between the plate 7 and the upper longitudinal edge 4a of the rear facade 4, or the backsplash, is also acceptable, but preferably reduced as much as possible, and preferably this gap is less than 1.5 cm. The work of the personnel is thereby facilitated, the risk of damaging the goods is reduced, as well as the risk of dropping goods under the tray 7.

Thus, the staff can load the goods on the plate 7, for example at the start of service, by sliding them on the plate 7 in the loading/unloading position. Once the goods have been loaded on the tray 7, the latter is brought into the presentation position, allowing the customers to observe the goods on the tray 7 in an optimal manner. Then, at the end of the service for example, the tray 7 is again raised in the loading/unloading position, the goods can be removed by sliding, and the recovery tank 13 can be cleaned.

The conditions of the environment in which the elevation system 15 is implemented are restrictive. For example, the temperature under the plate 9 is low, of the order of a few degrees C; even it is negative. Additionally, liquids and fluids from the goods add moisture, may be oily, and/or have a high or low pH. All these conditions imply that particular precautions for the implementation of a mechanical and/or electronic unit of the counter 1 must be implemented. Similarly, any mechanical and/or electronic assembly implemented on the counter 1 must not involve the escape of product, for example lubricant, which could be carried towards the goods by the air flow.

In addition, the elevation system 15 ensures smooth and stable movements of the tray 7 in order to preserve the quality of the display perceived by the customer, and not to disorganize the goods on the tray 7.

In addition, the weight to be moved by the lifting system 15, comprising the weight of the goods and of the plate 7, and of at least 150 Kg (kilograms), or even 300 Kg.

Finally, the elevation system 15 makes it possible to pass the plate from one position to another and to perform its maximum stroke in a few seconds, preferably less than 10 seconds, and for example 5 seconds maximum.

In order to allow the plate 7 to pass from one position to another under these conditions, while being loaded, the elevation system 15 may comprise at least a jack mounted on the one hand on the frame 2 and on the other hand on the plate 7, as well as a guide assembly serving to guide the movement of the plate 7 between the presentation position and the loading/unloading position when the or the cylinders 151 are actuated. The jack(s) 151 are for example of the pneumatic type. The jack(s) 151 can be of any other type, in particular electric.

More precisely, the frame 71 of the plate 7 is said to be rigid, that is to say that the frame 71 cannot deform substantially, that is to say with a visual impact and/or on the goods placed on the plate 7, and permanently during the forces exerted on it to obtain the movement of the plate 7.

According to a first embodiment of the elevation system 15 which then comprises a single cylinder 151, the frame 2 may comprise a stirrup 21, possibly resting on the ground when the feet 2a touch the ground. The cylinder 151 then comprises a first end portion 153 fixed in an articulated manner on the frame 71 of the plate 7 and a second end portion 154 fixed in an articulated manner on the stirrup 21 of the frame 2. The two portions 153, 154 end are articulated respectively on the armature 71 and the stirrup 21 in rotation about axes parallel to each other, substantially longitudinal.

The guide assembly 152 comprises in particular at least two, and preferably four guide bars 155 fixed to the frame 71 of the plate 7 on the lower side, and four bearings 156 fixed to the frame 2, in which the guide bars 155 are slippery climbs. The bearings 156 are preferably positioned under the tank 13, so as not to be in contact with the fluids which could accelerate their wear and/or block their operation.

The lifting system 15 is preferably located for the most part, and even more preferably entirely, on the lower side, so that it is invisible to customers when the tray 7 is in the presentation position.

According to one embodiment, the first end portion 153 of the cylinder 151 is fixed to a central region 151a of the plate 7, and more precisely of the armature 71, and each guide bar 155 is fixed to a lateral region 155a of the plate 7, distinct from the lateral regions for fixing the other bars 155, and at the greatest possible distance from the central region on which the first end portion 153 of the jack 151 is fixed. The four guide bars 155 are preferably aligned in a rectangle or a square, along the longitudinal and transverse directions. For example, in the case where the plate 7 is rectangular in shape, the guide bars 155 are fixed in regions 155a close to the corners of the plate 7, and the first end portion 153 of the cylinder 151 is fixed substantially in the central region 151a at the intersection of the diagonals of the rectangular shape.

According to this embodiment, the recovery tank 13 is traversed by the jack 151 and by the guide bars 155. A seal can be provided between the cylinder 151 and the tank 13, but not necessarily. In particular, the recovery tank 13 comprises a passage orifice 13a for the cylinder, located in a substantially central zone of the tank 13. The passage orifice 13a comprises raised edges, forming a collar to prevent the fluids recovered in the tank 13 does not escape and flow outside. The cylinder 151 passes through the passage orifice of the tank 13 to be fixed on the frame 71 of the plate 7, on the lower side. Similarly, the tank 13 includes side openings to allow the guide bars 155 to pass.

A sealing device can be placed between the elevation system 15, for example in this case the guide bars 155, and the tank 13. More specifically, the tank 13 has a surface inclined in the direction of a evacuation zone, so as to direct the flow of fluids there. For example, the evacuation zone is a central zone of the tank 13. As a variant, the evacuation zone is offset from the customer side: the tank 13 has a surface inclined towards the front, so that the cleaning of the tank 13, and in particular the evacuation zone where the fluids accumulate, by the customer side is facilitated. A drain system may be connected to an opening in the drain area to drain fluids out of the tank 13. Guide bars 155 pass through the tank 13 away from the drain area so that they do not bathe in the recovered fluids, but that they are simply in contact with the fluids during their flow towards the central zone. The seal between the guide bars 155 and the tank can then be achieved using a seal. For example, the sealing device comprises a seal carrier fixed to the tank 13 and provided for each guide bar 155, so that the seal extends around the corresponding guide bar 155 . The joint holder is designed to adapt to the angle of inclination of the guide axis of the elevation system which, as will be seen later, may not be strictly vertical.

The cylinder 151 is preferably unique, so as to simplify the installation of the lifting system 15, in particular by limiting the number of openings to be made in the tank 13.

This distribution of the cylinder 151 and the guide bars 155 ensures optimal guidance between the two positions of the plate 7, so as to maintain the same inclination of the plate 7 between the two positions, and to allow the plate 7 to be moved even to load goods. .

In order to absorb any play, the end portions 153, 154 of the cylinder 151 can be mounted in ball joint connection respectively on the armature 71 on the one hand and on the stirrup 21 of the frame 2 on the other hand. The guide bars 155 are then not fixed rigidly to the frame 71 of the plate, but they are fixed therein so as to allow a degree of freedom in rotation and a degree of freedom in translation along the same axis, i.e. that is to say in a sliding pivot connection. For example, two guide bars 155, side by side in the longitudinal direction, are connected 157 sliding pivot on the frame 71 in a longitudinal direction, and two other guide bars 155 are connected 158 sliding pivot in a transverse direction . This assembly provides flexibility to the elevation system 15 limiting the risks of fatigue and breakage of the various elements. The robustness of the elevation system 15 is thereby increased.

According to a second embodiment of the elevation system 15 comprises a system 1151 with braces. For example, the cross-brace system 1151 comprises at least one cross-brace guide assembly 1152 actuated by at least one jack 1153 of the pneumatic, electric or other type. As explained above in connection with the first embodiment, according to this second embodiment, the evacuation zone can also be a central zone or, preferably, offset from the customer side, to facilitate its access and cleaning of the client side.

More specifically, according to this second embodiment, the system 1151 of braces comprises two sets 1152 of braces each arranged on either side of the window 1, along a side facade 5, under the plate 7. More precisely , the two sets 1152 of braces are at a distance from each other in the transverse direction so as to ensure a good distribution of the forces on the two sets 1152 and the stability of the plate 7. For example, the distance between the two sets 1152 is maximum considering the size under the plate 7. They are preferably placed close to the longitudinal edges of the plate 7 . the other around a longitudinal axis 1156 called a cross. A first connecting rod 1154 comprises a first end 1154a pivotally mounted about a longitudinal axis relative to the plate 7, on the lower side, and a second end 1154b mounted on the frame 2 both sliding along a transverse axis and pivoting along an axis longitudinal. For this purpose, the plate 7 may include a stirrup 1157 rigidly fixed to the frame 71 and carrying the axis of rotation of the first end 1154a and the frame 2 may include a transverse slide 1158 to guide the sliding of the second end 1154b of the first connecting rod 1154. In a complementary manner, the second connecting rod 1155 comprises a first end 1155a mounted sliding along a transverse axis and pivoting around a longitudinal axis relative to the plate 7. For example, the plate 7 comprises, on the lower side, a slide 1159 rigidly fixed to the frame 71 to guide the first end 1155a of the second connecting rod 1155 of the guide assembly 11552 with spiders. The second bar 1155 further comprises a second end 1155b pivotally mounted about a longitudinal axis on the frame 2. The pivot axis of the second end 1155b of the second link 1155 is preferably substantially perpendicular with the axis of the slide 1158 of the second end 1154b of the first connecting rod 1154.

The cylinder 1153, for each assembly, is mounted for example on the frame 2, and acts on the second end 1154b of the first connecting rod 1154 to adjust the spacing with the second end 1155b of the second connecting rod 1155. Adjusting this spacing results in a modification of the angle between the connecting rods 1154 and 1155, and therefore in the modification of the vertical distance between the first ends 11554a and 1155a and the second ends 1154b and 1155b of the bars 1554 and 1155. Thus, under the effect of the cylinder 1153, the two bars 1554 and 1155 pivot relative to each other around the axis 1156 of the spider, so that the height of the plate 7 is modified.

The cross-brace guide assemblies 1152 are preferably symmetrical to each other with respect to a transverse plane, and the cylinders 1153 are preferably synchronized, so as to guarantee flatness, or at least the preservation of an inclination. initial, of the plate 7. The speed and the stroke of the two cylinders 1153 are moreover adapted to the kinematics for a displacement of the plate 7 which is fluid and uniform, guaranteeing in particular the safety of the goods in place on the plate.

Connecting rods 1154 and 1155 of each spider guide assembly 1152 pass through tank 13. More specifically, tub 13 may include two slots, one slot for each spider guide assembly 1152, extending substantially transversely. The slots are then equipped with a flange rising in the tank 13, so as to limit the leakage of liquids through the slots. In addition, a joint can be provided between the connecting rods 1154 and 1155 on the one hand and the corresponding slot of the tank 13 on the other hand which, while allowing the movement of the connecting rods 1154 and 1155 with respect to the tank 13, limits the risk of liquid leaking through the slot. This is for example a lip seal, made of a flexible material. More precisely, two lip seals are for example mounted along the transverse edges of the slot. They are dimensioned to be in contact with each other in order to ensure leaktight closing of the slot, except at the places where the connecting rods 1154 and 1155 of the assembly 152 of spider guides pass through the slot. Indeed, at the level of the connecting rods 1154 and 1155, the seals are spaced apart and in contact with the connecting rods 1154 and 1155. into the slot and spread the joints of the slot.

The system 1151 of braces of the elevation system 15 allows great stability and robustness of the movement of the plate 7 between its different positions, even when the plate is loaded.

According to one embodiment which is that of the figures, the guide axis A of the system 15 for raising the plate 7 is inclined with respect to the vertical direction so that in addition to the vertical movement, the plate 7 performs a displacement in the transverse direction towards the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front panel 3 when the tray 7 passes from the presentation position to the loading/unloading position. The angle α of inclination of the guide axis is preferably less than 20°, more preferably less than 15°, and is for example 12°. We represented on the figure 7 in discontinuous train the space containing the plate 7 when it passes from the presentation position to the loading/unloading position. This inclination makes it possible to place under the plate 7 a cylinder 151 of sufficient capacity to move the loaded plate 7 while ensuring that the height of the plate 7 in the presentation position remains optimal for the customers.

Thus, when the tray 7 is in the presentation position, it is slightly offset under the backsplash 14, so as to leave the grille 11 and the deflector 11a on the customer side unobstructed to allow the circulation of refrigerated air. Then, in the loading/unloading position, the plate 7 is flush by its upper surface with the upper longitudinal edge 4a, at the height of the backsplash 14.

In order to lock the plate 7 in one or the other position, the elevation system 15 may comprise a locking device. In particular, when the plate 7 is in the loading/unloading position, the cylinder 151 is deployed and supports the load of the plate 7 and possibly of the goods placed on it. A locking device then makes it possible to prevent the jack 151 from folding back towards the presentation position, for example in the event of a pressure drop, and to ensure that the plate 7 remains at the correct height for the personnel. In the presentation position, the plate 7 can rest directly on elements of the frame 2 under the effect of the weight of the goods placed on it and of its own weight, so that locking is not required.

The elevation system 15 also allows the plate 7 to assume any height between the first height and the second height. For this purpose, in the event that the elevation system 15 includes the cylinder 151, a brake can be put in place to block the cylinder 151 in case of loss of energy.

According to one embodiment, the counter 1 may comprise a transparent window 16 which at least partially covers the loading area 6 on the upper side, in order to guarantee the hygiene of the goods in the loading area 6, for example against sputters client. For example, the window 16 comprises a front portion 17, placed on the customer side and extending substantially vertically from the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front facade 3, and an upper portion 18, which extends above the zone 6 loading from the front portion 17 towards the personal side, without necessarily joining the longitudinal upper edge 4a of the rear facade 4. Optionally, a third window portion closing the personal side can be added. This third portion then comprises an opening system for the staff to access the loading area 6 .

According to one embodiment, the front portion 17 of the window 16 is mounted on the frame 2 and is retained by pinching, allowing, if necessary, the tilting and dismantling of the front portion 17 of the window 16 to access under the plate 7 The upper portion 18 of the window 16 is mounted on at least one support arm 19, and in practice at least two support arms 19, integral with the frame 2. More specifically, each arm 19 is placed on either side , in the longitudinal direction, of the loading zone 6, and comprises a substantially vertical upright 191 extending from the customer side, extended by a substantially transverse crosspiece 192 joining the backsplash 14. The crosspiece 192 may be partially curved.

In order to allow the plate 7 in the loading/unloading position to come as close as possible to the backsplash 14 and facilitate the sliding of the goods between the backsplash 14 and the plate 7, the crosspiece 192 can be partly integrated into the backsplash 14. More precisely , the crosspiece 192 comprises an extreme vertical portion 193 which fits into a cutout 194 of the backsplash 14 so as to integrate with the backsplash 14 while crossing it. Thus, the crosspiece 192 does not interfere with the plate 7 in the loading/unloading position, which can come into contact, in the transverse direction, with the backsplash 14 and form an almost continuous surface for the transfer of goods between the backsplash 14 and the plate 7. The vertical portion 193 of the crosspiece 192 is extended by a portion 195, for example substantially horizontal, which extends under the backsplash 14 and is fixed to the frame 2. The space that the support arms 19 can cause on the side personnel is thus reduced.

In order to allow free access to the lower side of the plate 7 in the loading/unloading position, the window 16 can partly be retractable. In particular, the front portion 17 can be retractable, for example by being mounted on vertical hinges. According to one embodiment, the front portion 17 of the window 16 is sliding relative to the frame 2 in the vertical direction between a deployed position in which the front portion 17 extends at least partly above the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front panel 3, and a retracted position in which the front portion 17 extends completely under the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front panel 3. The frame 2 can then comprise a housing, located behind the front facade 3, invisible to a customer located on the customer side, in which the front portion 17 of the window 16 is inserted in the retracted position.

According to one embodiment, the counter 1 can further comprise a window detection system 16, which makes it possible to ensure its presence before moving the tray between its two positions. For example, detectors make it possible to send a signal indicating that the front portion 17 of the window 16 is in the deployed position to authorize the movement of the plate 7, avoiding the risk of injury that the movement of the plate 7 may cause.

The movement of the plate 7 is controlled by the personnel. To this end, the counter 1 comprises a system for controlling the movement of the tray 7 from the presentation position to the loading/unloading position and vice versa. This control system includes for example controls accessible from the personal side, located on the rear facade 4. The controls can be in the form of two press buttons, which must be pressed simultaneously to cause the plate 7 to move, and must be kept pressed to supply the cylinder 151 with energy until the desired height for the plate is reached. In the event of release of one of the buttons before reaching one of the two extreme positions, the brake described above in the event of loss of energy can be implemented. Thus, the two hands of the person controlling the movement of the plate are each occupied by a button, ensuring that the hands do not find themselves in the path of the plate 7 during its movement. Staff safety is increased.

According to one embodiment, the window control system 16 is coupled to the platform control system 7 or to the system 15 for lifting the platform. Thus, the passage from the deployed position to the retracted position can be carried out simultaneously with or just after the movement of the plate 7 from the presentation position to the loading/unloading position. Similarly, the transition from the retracted position to the deployed position of the display case can be carried out simultaneously with or just before the movement of the plate 7 from the loading/unloading position to the presentation position.

Thus, to clean the counter 1, a staff person stands on the staff side, and controls the passage of the tray 7 from the presentation position to the loading/unloading position. The window 16, if applicable, may initially be in the deployed position so that the detection system sends a signal to the plate displacement control system to authorize the displacement of the plate 7 into the loading/unloading position. The goods can then be easily loaded or unloaded from the tray 7 if necessary. If necessary, the retractable window 16 is placed in the retracted position, so that on the customer side, the space under the tray 7 is accessible. The tank 13 can then be cleaned by inserting a tool between the upper longitudinal edge 3a of the front facade 3 and the plate 7 from the customer side. The evaporator 9 can also be cleaned. Then, the pane 16 is again placed in the deployed position. The window detection system then sends a signal authorizing the movement of the plate. The staff person, again on the staff side, controls the passage to the presentation position of the tray 7, which can be loaded with goods.

The counter thus formed allows both an optimal presentation of the goods for the customers, to raise the tray 7 to facilitate the work of loading and unloading the goods and to present the goods in a temperature-controlled space. It also guarantees a high level of hygiene for the goods in the loading area 6 by allowing the recovery tank 13 and/or the evaporator 9 to be completely cleaned.

Claims (14)

Counter (1) for presenting goods, the counter (1) comprising at least one frame (2) intended to rest on the ground, at least one loading zone (6) intended to receive the goods, the zone (6) of load comprising at least one tray (7) defining, in the loading area (6), an upper side and a lower side on either side of the tray (7), the counter (1) further comprising a device ( 8) temperature control, the temperature control device (8) being located at least partly on the underside of the tray (7) and being fixed at least partly to the tray (7), the goods being intended to be placed on the upper side of the plate (7), the frame (2) comprising at least a first so-called upper longitudinal rim (3a) located at a first height and a second upper longitudinal rim (4a) located at a second height greater than the first height , the counter (1) being characterized in that it comprises a system (15) for raising the top (7) relative to the frame (2) in a vertical direction between two extreme positions: - a first so-called presentation position, in which the tray (7) is located at a height less than or equal to the height of said upper longitudinal rim (3a), - a second so-called loading / unloading position, in which the plate (7) is located at a height greater than the height of said upper longitudinal rim (3a), the inclination of the plate (7) with respect to the vertical direction being maintained between the two extreme positions, so that, in the loading/unloading position of the tray (7), the tray (7) and said upper longitudinal edge (3a) define an access space for at least part of the refrigeration device (8) on the lower side of the loading area (6) and wherein in the loading/unloading position, the platform (7) is at a height substantially equal to the second height.. Counter (1) according to Claim 1, in which the second upper longitudinal edge (4a) comprises a backsplash (14). Counter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the temperature control device (8) is a cooling device and comprises at least one evaporator (9) fixed to the tray (7) on the lower side of the loading zone (6), so that the evaporator (9) follows the tray (7) between the presentation position and the loading/unloading position. Counter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the lifting system (15) comprises a single jack (151) mounted between the plate (7) and the frame (2) and a set (152) of guiding the plate relative to the frame (2). Counter (1) according to Claim 4, in which the jack (151) and the guide assembly (152) guide the tray (7) vertically between the presentation position and the loading/unloading position in a direction inclined with respect to in the vertical direction. Counter according to claim 4 or claim 5, comprising a recovery tank (13) placed on the lower side of the tray (7), the lifting system (15) passing through the tank (13), and the counter comprising a device for sealing between the guide assembly (152) and the recovery tank (13), as well as an orifice (13a) for passage of the cylinder (151) through the tank (13), the passage orifice of the cylinder being fitted with a flange to prevent fluids from escaping. A counter according to any one of claims 1 to 3 wherein the elevation system (15) comprises a spider system (1151), the spider system (1151) comprising at least one spider guide assembly (1152) actuated by at least one actuator (1153). Counter (1) according to any one of Claims 4 to 7, in which the cylinder (151, 1153) is a pneumatic cylinder. Counter (1) according to any one of Claims 4 to 7, in which the actuator (151, 1153) is of the electric type. Counter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a transparent window (16) which is at least partly retractable when the tray (7) is in the loading/unloading position so as to leave the access space on the lower side of the plate (7). Counter (1) according to the preceding claim, in which at least a portion of the window (16) is retractable by sliding relative to the frame (2) in a vertical direction. Counter (1) according to Claim 11, in which at least a portion of the pane (16) can assume a deployed position, in which it extends at least partly from the upper side of the loading zone (6), and a retracted position in which it is inserted into a housing of the loading/unloading frame so as to leave the access space on the underside of the tray (7) free at least in part in the position of
loading unloading. Counter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the inclination of the top (7) is substantially perpendicular to the vertical direction. Method for cleaning a counter (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, which comprises placing the tray (7) in the loading/unloading position and inserting at least one cleaning tool into the space access for at least part of the device (8) refrigeration.

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