FR3142183A1 - method and system for anti-crush protection of an aerial platform operator and aerial platform comprising this system - Google Patents

Abstract

The method provides anti-crush protection for an operator (O) on board a work platform (3) of a lifting platform or a control console (10) allowing him to initiate a movement of the work platform. The protection method comprises the implementation of a first rule according to which the movement of the work platform (3) is stopped if the movement is in progress at the moment when a detection system detects the occurrence of a situation at risk for the operator. The method comprises the implementation of a second rule according to which the movement of the work platform (3) is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement if the risk situation for the operator is detected at the time of engagement of the movement at the control console (10). This differentiated treatment reduces the number of untimely stoppages of the work platform movements. Figure for abstract: Fig. 5

Description

method and system for anti-crush protection of an aerial platform operator and aerial platform comprising this system

The present invention relates to the field of mobile personnel lifting platforms (also referred to by the acronym PEMP) still commonly called lifting nacelles. More particularly, the invention proposes a method and a system for anti-crush protection of an operator on board a working platform of an aerial platform, as well as an aerial platform comprising this protection system.

Aerial lifts are machines designed to allow one or more people to work at height. For this, they include a work platform designed to receive them and possibly also loads such as tools or other equipment, materials such as paint, cement, etc. The work platform includes a tray surrounded by a guardrail. It is supported by a lifting mechanism which allows it to be raised from a lowered position on the aerial platform frame to a desired working position at height.

There is a wide variety of aerial platforms to meet the different desired uses. Thus, different technologies of the lifting mechanism of the working platform are used according to which aerial platforms are generally qualified, for example scissor lifts, vertical mast lifts, articulated boom lifts, telescopic boom lifts. Depending on the case, the lifting device may include a turret mounted to pivot around a vertical axis on the chassis in order to allow the orientation of the lifting mechanism and therefore of the work platform to be changed relative to the chassis. The aerial platforms can also be self-propelled, that is to say motorized to allow their autonomous movement on the ground.

The work platform is equipped with a control panel allowing an operator on board the work platform to cause the work platform to move to reach the desired working position. For this, the control console is equipped with control elements allowing the operator to operate the lifting mechanism, but also, if necessary, the pivoting of the turret and the movement of the lifting platform on the ground.

The control console is generally fixedly mounted on the guardrail or at its level and is designed so that the operator stands in front of it when he wishes to manipulate the control elements.

In the case in particular of scissor lifts and vertical mast lifts, the control console is sometimes designed to be movable by the operator so as to be able to hang it removably in different places on the guardrail, but preferably on the level with a front corner of the work platform guardrail. To this end, the desk is generally more compact and lighter than in the case of fixed desks. The control console can also be provided so that the operator can hold it with one hand and manipulate its control elements with the other, which in particular makes it possible to control the aerial platform from the ground instead of from the work platform. In this case, the control console is even more compact and even more limited in weight.

When moving the work platform caused by an operator to the control console of the work platform, there is a risk that the operator could be crushed against the control console by an external obstacle – for example a part of a building, a structure or a tree branch – hitting it from behind or above. The same risk may exist in relation to the guardrail in cases where the operator can stand next to the control console while manipulating the latter's control elements. This is also the case for certain movable control consoles which are designed so that the operator stands next to the console rather than in front of it when the console is hooked to the guardrail.

Protection systems have been proposed to protect the operator against this risk. Two types of solutions are mainly used today.

A first type of protection system consists of mounting a fixed or mobile safety bar in front of the control console which is interposed between the control console and the operator standing in front of the console in order to manipulate its control elements. The aerial platform control system stops or prevents movements of the work platform when the bar is mechanically biased towards the console. This type of solution is illustrated in particular by FR 3 007 401 A1, EP 2 190 775 A1, JP 64-12100, JP H4-77600 U, GB 2 481 709 A1, WO 2017/098120 and WO 2020/144601.

A second type of protection system uses a contactless detection system to detect an abnormal position of the operator in relation to the control console or another type of risky situation for the operator. A typical example consists of detecting too close proximity of the operator to the control console or possibly also too close proximity to the guardrail on one side of the control console. As in the first type of solutions, the operator protection system stops or prevents movements of the work platform when the detection system detects that the operator is in an abnormal position in order to avoid a risk of injury. operator overwrite. For example, JP 5-124800 A teaches to place optical barriers in front of and above the control console. If the operator is pushed towards the console by an external obstacle, his body cuts one and/or the other of the light beams in which case the corresponding receiver(s) no longer receive the light from the corresponding beam and consequently, the device stops the movements of the aerial platform. WO 2017/178737 proposes an improvement to this system which is based on the detection of an optical beam reflected by the operator instead of the non-reception of the emitted optical beam, which also allows it to be used to detect proximity of the operator with the guardrail when standing on a lateral side of the control console. According to another approach, US 10,358,331 B2 proposes using a stereoscopic camera with real-time image analysis. This document also proposes using a neutralization button (classically called an override button ) to allow movement at slow speed after having been stopped or prevented by the protection system. WO 2021/026585 proposes using a LIDAR system ( Light Detection and Ranging ) to detect an abnormal position of the operator or even an abnormal acceleration of the operator's body.

Alongside these two types of protection systems, there are still others which use other means of detecting the risk of the operator being crushed in order to inhibit the movements of the platform. work, but they are less commonly used.

A common disadvantage of existing protection systems is to stop or prevent movements of the work platform if the operator is not sufficiently vigilant and unintentionally triggers the protection system. This is particularly true in the case of the second type of protection systems which use a contactless detection system because the operator does not easily perceive that he can unintentionally trigger the detection. These untimely shutdowns cause a loss of productivity. In addition, they can irritate the operator, causing him to become nervous and a corresponding drop in alertness which is undesirable.

The aim of the present invention is to provide a solution for protecting the operator on board the working platform of aerial platforms, at least partially overcoming the aforementioned drawbacks.

To this end, the present invention proposes a method of anti-crush protection of an operator on board a working platform of an aerial platform, which method is implemented automatically, the aerial platform comprising a console control device intended for use on board the work platform and designed to allow the operator to initiate movement of the work platform, the aerial platform further comprising a detection system for detecting a situation at risk for the operator on board the work platform.

The protection method comprises: the implementation of a first rule according to which the movement of the work platform is stopped if the movement is in progress at the time when the detection system detects the occurrence of the risk situation for the operator ; and the implementation of a second rule according to which the movement of the work platform is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement if the risky situation for the operator is detected by the system. detection at the time of engagement of the movement at the control console.

In the method of the invention, the management of a risky situation for the operator is therefore different depending on the circumstances in which it is detected. In other words, the same risky situation for the operator is managed either according to the first rule or according to the second rule depending on whether it is the condition of the first rule or the condition of the second rule which is satisfied.

The condition of the first rule, namely whether the movement of the work platform is in progress at the time when the detection system detects the occurrence of the risky situation for the operator, usually corresponds to a significant risk for the operator. 'operator. This is why the implied consequence of the first rule is to stop the current movement of the work platform, in order to avoid possible crushing of the operator. For this reason, it is preferable that the movement stops immediately without delay as soon as the detection system detects the occurrence of the risky situation for the operator.

On the other hand, in the context of the invention, it was noted that the condition of the second rule, namely if the risky situation for the operator is detected by the detection system at the time of engagement of the movement at control console, corresponds to a low risk for the operator. Indeed, in this case, the risky situation for the operator exists at the very moment when he initiates the movement of the work platform. In other words, the movement of the work platform initiated by the operator is not the cause of the risky situation. In particular, it is possible that the operator voluntarily placed himself in the risky situation before initiating the movement of the work platform. For example, he can approach the control console or the guardrail of the work platform at an unusually small distance in order to have better visibility of the environment of the aerial platform before initiating a movement of the work platform.

It is therefore acceptable to authorize the movement of the work platform initiated by the operator when the condition of the second rule is satisfied. However, as the implied consequence of the second rule provides, it is prudent to only allow movement at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement applied in normal operation, that is to say when the risky situation for the operator is not detected. Thus, the operator can easily react and manage the risk if, despite everything, a real risk for the operator arises after initiating the movement of the work platform. The reduced speed is preferably less than or equal to half the normal speed of the movement concerned and is even more preferably less than or equal to a quarter or even a fifth of the latter. In cases where the speed of the movement concerned can be varied at the control console by the operator, the maximum value of the normal speed of this movement and the maximum value of the reduced speed of this movement will be taken as reference to apply this relationship. between reduced speed and normal speed of movement.

As the method is implemented automatically, it will be understood that the first rule and the second rule are implemented automatically. In other words, they are applied automatically by the aerial platform without human intervention when the aerial platform is in operation, which ensures the effectiveness of the protection process. This also means that in the second rule, the reduced speed is applied automatically by the aerial platform without the operator having to engage a command dedicated to this purpose such as pressing a neutralization button (or override button ).

The fact of authorizing the movement engaged at the control console within the framework of the second rule despite the detection of a risk situation advantageously makes it possible to significantly reduce the number of stops and the stopping time of the control platform. work due to the intervention of the operator crush protection while maintaining an excellent level of operator crush protection. This therefore results in a gain in productivity. Furthermore, as the implementation of the second rule is automatic, it does not cause any particular annoyance for the operator because the movement that he initiates at the control console is executed immediately without requiring any additional specific action on his part. .

The detection system for detecting a risky situation for the operator on board the work platform can be any type of system making it possible to detect a potentially dangerous situation for the operator on board the platform. work due to the movement of the latter. The detection system may in particular be of any type used in operator anti-crushing protection systems for aerial platforms of the prior art. In particular, it may be any type of detection system suitable for detecting a situation involving a risk of crushing for the operator on board the work platform due to the movement of the latter. Conventionally, detection is preferentially carried out in relation to the body of the operator. A certain number of embodiments of the non-limiting detection system are mentioned below.

According to a preferred embodiment, the risk situation detected by the detection system is a position of the operator relative to the control console. This can typically involve detecting proximity of the operator to the front side and/or the top of the control console. In other words, it involves detecting the situation where the operator approaches the control console abnormally compared to the position he normally occupies when using the control console. For this, prior art systems may in particular be used consisting of mounting a fixed or movable safety bar in front of the control console to detect a push against it. But the protection system of the invention is even more interesting in cases where it includes a contactless detection system because the risk of untimely triggering of the detection is greater in this case.

Additionally or alternatively, it may involve detecting a distance of the operator from the control console. In other words, in this case it is a question of detecting the situation where the operator is abnormally far from the control console compared to the position he normally occupies when using the control console.

Additionally or alternatively, the risk situation detected by the detection system may be proximity of the operator to a part of the guardrail which is adjacent laterally to the control console. In other words, in this case it is a question of detecting the situation where the operator is not standing in front of the control console, but is standing abnormally close in front of a part of the guardrail right next to the control console.

According to another preferred embodiment, the risk situation detected by the detection system is the absence of the operator in a specific area in relation to the control console on board the work platform. In other words, in this case it is a question of detecting the situation where the operator is outside an area in which the operator is normally found when using the control console.

Additionally or alternatively, it may be a matter of detecting the presence of the operator in a specific area in relation to the control console on board the work platform. In other words, in this case it is a matter of detecting the situation where the operator is in an area in which the operator should not normally be when using the control console.

Detection of the presence or absence of the operator in a specific area is preferably implemented by contactless detection.

Although it is advantageously simple and effective to base the detection on a position of the operator on board the working platform or on the presence or absence of the operator in an area on board the platform -form of work, the detection by the detection system of a risky situation can in other embodiments be based on other physical parameters such as for example an acceleration of the operator's body. In particular, it may involve detecting an acceleration of the body exceeding a given threshold. This detection may be indicative of an impact from an obstacle external to the aerial platform with the operator.

According to yet another embodiment, the risk situation detected by the detection system may be the proximity of an obstacle external to the aerial platform with the operator on board the work platform. Such detection can also be implemented by contactless detection.

In general, the detection system preferentially uses contactless detection which can be implemented by any suitable technology, for example one or more photoelectric sensors, one or more LIDAR ( Light Detection and Ranging ) sensors, a or more LADAR ( Laser Detection and Ranging ) sensors, one or more RADAR ( R adio Detection and Ranging ) sensors, one or more ultrasonic sensors and/or one or more cameras or one or more 3D vision devices with data analysis pictures. But the detection system can also use contact detection.

According to a preferred embodiment, the method comprises: after triggering the second rule, executing the movement of the work platform at reduced speed as long as the movement remains engaged at the control console, including if the detection system stops detecting a risky situation for the operator. By triggering the second rule is meant the case where the movement of the work platform is carried out at a reduced speed compared to the normal speed of movement in application of the second rule due to the fact that the risk situation for the operator was detected by the detection system at the time of engagement of this movement at the control console. Maintaining the movement in progress at reduced speed despite the cessation of detection of the risky situation for the operator avoids the risk of unbalancing the operator. Indeed, if the speed of movement of the work platform changed from reduced speed to normal speed, the operator could be unbalanced due to the acceleration experienced by his body.

According to another preferred embodiment, the method comprises: excluding the implementation of the first rule when the movement is in progress at reduced speed; and after triggering the second rule, executing the movement at reduced speed as long as the movement remains engaged at the control console without taking into account the detection system. This embodiment advantageously makes it possible to improve productivity when a movement is in progress at reduced speed due to the triggering of the second rule. Indeed, in the case where the risky situation for the operator ceases to be detected, then is detected again during the execution of the movement at reduced speed, the current movement of the work platform does not is not stopped but will continue to continue at reduced speed as long as the movement remains engaged at the control console. This is acceptable from the point of view of operator safety since the operator can easily react and manage the risk if it is real, taking into account that the movement is performed at the reduced speed.

According to a preferred embodiment, the method is applied with respect to a rising movement of the work platform. In other words, the control console is designed to allow the operator to initiate an upward movement of the work platform and the method comprises: the implementation of the first rule according to which the upward movement of the work platform is stopped if the raising movement of the work platform is in progress at the time when the detection system detects the occurrence of a risky situation for the operator; and the implementation of the second rule according to which the raising movement of the work platform is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement if the risky situation for the operator is detected by the system detection when initiating the lifting movement of the work platform to the control console.

According to another preferred embodiment, the method is applied with respect to a movement of the work platform parallel to the ground which is obtained by a translation on the ground of the lifting platform. In this case, the aerial platform is self-propelled to be able to translate on the ground, the control console being designed to allow the operator to initiate a translation on the ground of the aerial platform. And the method comprises: the implementation of the first rule according to which the translation on the ground of the aerial platform is stopped if the translation on the ground of the aerial platform is in progress at the moment when the detection system detects the occurrence of a risky situation for the operator; and the implementation of the second rule according to which the ground translation of the lifting platform is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal ground translation speed of the lifting platform if a risky situation for the operator is detected by the detection system at the time of engagement of the ground translation of the lifting platform at the control console.

In this embodiment, the method can also advantageously comprise: implementing the first rule and the second rule only if the work platform is at least partially lifted; and the implementation of a third rule according to which the translation on the ground of the aerial platform is authorized without taking into account the detection system on the condition that the work platform is in a completely lowered position. The implementation of this third rule is advantageous in terms of productivity because it avoids possible stoppages in the movement of the aerial platform on the ground due to the protection system. This is acceptable because the operator is then in the situation of a simple driver of a motor vehicle since the working platform is completely lowered, it being specified that it is usually provided in this case to be able to drive the lifting platform at high speed. speed compared to the normal ground translation speed when the work platform is raised.

According to another preferred embodiment in which the control console is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage any movement among several different movements of the work platform, the method comprises: the exclusion of at less a movement of the work platform from the implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to authorize this movement of the work platform without taking into account the detection system. In other words, if this movement is initiated at the control console, it will be executed at its normal speed regardless of any possible detection of a risky situation for the operator. This embodiment is advantageously applicable to any movement considered not to increase the risk for the operator, or even to possibly reduce or eliminate the risk for the operator. Not inhibiting this movement also allows for a gain in productivity.

This embodiment can advantageously be applied to the descent movement of the work platform. In other words, the control console is designed to allow the operator to initiate a lowering movement of the working platform and the method comprises excluding the lowering movement of the working platform from the setting implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to authorize the downward movement of the work platform without taking into account the detection system.

Similarly, this embodiment can also be advantageously applied to the translation movement on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion in the case where the lifting platform is self-propelled. In this case, the control console is designed to allow the operator to initiate ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion and the method comprises excluding the ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion from the implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to authorize the forward translation of the aerial platform on the ground without taking into account the detection system. In fact, the risk of crushing for the operator compared to forward translation on the ground is very low because the operator naturally looks in the forward direction of the aerial platform in this case and therefore sees it approaching him. a possible external obstacle. This is all the more the case when the control console is fixedly mounted on the work platform because the mounting position of the control console requires the operator to position themselves naturally in front of it, looking towards the front of the lifting platform.

According to another preferred embodiment, at least one reset procedure is provided which can be executed on the control console and the method comprises: in the event of triggering of the first rule, the application of a first restricted operating mode until that the reset procedure is carried out; and the prohibition of movement during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode. By triggering the first rule we mean the case where the movement of the work platform is stopped in application of the first rule due to the fact that this movement was in progress at the time when the detection system detects the occurrence of the situation at hand. risk for the operator. This embodiment prevents the operator from being unbalanced due to an automatic restart of the movement if detection of the risky situation for the operator ceases after having been stopped by application of the first rule.

According to an advantageous embodiment, the control console is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage any movement among several different movements of the work platform and the method comprises for each movement of the platform of work either the prohibition to execute the movement of the work platform during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode, or the authorization to execute the movement of the work platform only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement - preferably without taking into account the detection system - during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode.

Thus, if during the application of the first restricted operating mode, the operator initiates a movement of the work platform whose execution is prohibited, this movement will not be implemented by the aerial platform. Such a ban is preferentially applied to any movement of the work platform which is considered to potentially aggravate the risk of crushing for the operator when a movement in progress of the work platform has just been stopped. in application of the first rule. This prevents the operator from aggravating the risk of crushing by possibly accidentally initiating such a movement at the control console.

On the contrary, the authorization to execute a movement of the work platform but only at reduced speed is preferentially applied to any movement of the work platform which is considered to potentially reduce or eliminate the risk of crushing. for the operator when a movement in progress of the work platform has just been stopped in application of the first rule. Thus, the operator can cause such an authorized movement by engaging it at the control console in order to free himself from the risky situation. Executing such a movement at reduced speed allows the operator to better control it and therefore safely manage this movement of the work platform. For this reason, it is satisfactory to authorize the execution of the movement of the work platform without taking into account the detection system, which prevents the operator from being bothered by stops in the movement of the platform. form of work due for example to a new detection of a risky situation for the operator, given that the execution of the movement at reduced speed allows him sufficiently safe management of the authorized movements of the work platform.

The prohibition of executing the movement of the work platform during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode is preferably always applied to the raising movement of the work platform because this is almost always dangerous when there is a situation where there is a risk of crushing for the operator. In other words, in this case, the control console is designed to allow the operator to initiate a raising movement of the work platform and the method includes prohibiting the raising movement of the working platform. work during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode, regardless of the movement of the work platform which was in progress at the time of triggering of the first rule.

According to one embodiment in which the lifting platform is self-propelled to be able to translate on the ground and the control console is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion, a translation at ground of the lifting platform in reverse, an upward movement of the working platform and a downward movement of the working platform, the method comprises, during the application of the first operating mode restricted due to 'a triggering of the first rule at a time when the work platform was subject only to an upward movement, the authorization to execute any movement only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement among the translation on the ground of the aerial platform in forward direction, the translation on the ground of the aerial platform in reverse and the descent movement of the work platform. Indeed, these three movements can be useful to the operator in this case to allow him to escape from a situation where he could be crushed.

According to another embodiment in which the lifting platform is self-propelled to be able to translate on the ground and the control console is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward direction, a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse, an upward movement of the working platform and a downward movement of the working platform, the method comprises, during the application of the first mode of operation restricted due to the fact a triggering of the first rule at a time when the work platform was subject only to a translation on the ground of the aerial platform in reverse, the authorization to execute only at a reduced speed compared to a speed normal movement the translation on the ground of the aerial platform in forward direction and the descent movement of the work platform. In fact, these two movements can be useful to the operator in this case to allow him to escape from a situation where he could be crushed.

According to a preferred embodiment in which the control console is designed to allow the operator to selectively initiate any movement among a plurality of different movements of the work platform and in which at least one procedure is provided reset executable at the control console, the method comprises: in the event of triggering of the second rule, the application of a second restricted operating mode until the reset procedure is executed; and during the entire time of application of the second restricted operating mode, the authorization to carry out any movement of the work platform only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement. This allows the operator to move the work platform freely despite the risky situation for the operator which led to the application of the second restricted operating mode. This promotes productivity and is acceptable in terms of safety for the operator since, as explained above, the movement of the work platform initiated by the operator is not at the origin of the risky situation and the reduced speed of movement of the work platform allows it to adequately manage a possible risk of crushing itself.

It is advantageous to provide, throughout the time of application of the second operating mode, the exclusion of the application of the first rule and the authorization to execute any movement of the work platform at reduced speed without taking into account the detection system. As the first rule is not applied during the second restricted operating mode and the detection system is not taken into account, possible involuntary stops of the movement of the work platform are avoided. otherwise the application of the first rule could result. This promotes productivity and avoids irritating the operator when the second restricted operating mode is applied.

According to yet another preferred embodiment, the method comprises: when the first restricted operating mode is being applied, deactivation of the first restricted operating mode in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that the system detection has ceased to detect a risky situation for the operator; and/or when the second restricted operating mode is being applied, deactivating the second restricted operating mode in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that the detection system has ceased to detect a risk situation for the operator. Deactivation of the first restricted operating mode, respectively the second restricted operating mode, causes a return to the normal operating mode. The fact of only putting an end to restricted operating modes on condition that the detection system has ceased to detect a risky situation for the operator advantageously ensures that the return to normal operating mode takes place in safe conditions for the operator. 'operator.

According to another preferred embodiment, the reset procedure comprises or consists of disengaging any movement from the work platform to the control console, the method comprising deactivating the first restricted operating mode and/or the second mode of operation in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that any movement of the work platform is disengaged at the control console and that the detection system has ceased to detect the risky situation for the operator. In other words, the reset procedure only allows the deactivation of the first restricted operating mode and/or the second operating mode if concomitantly any movement of the work platform has been disengaged at the control console and the control system detection has stopped detecting the risky situation for the operator.

According to another preferred embodiment in which the lifting platform comprises a turret pivotally mounted on a chassis, the turret supporting a lifting device for the work platform, the control console being designed to allow the operator to initiate a rotation of the turret, the method comprises: implementing the first rule according to which the rotation of the turret is stopped if the rotation of the turret is in progress at the time when the detection system detects the occurrence of a risky situation for the operator; and the implementation of the second rule according to which the rotation of the turret is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of rotation of the turret if a risky situation for the operator is detected by the detection system at moment when the rotation of the turret is engaged at the control console.

According to another aspect, the invention proposes a system for protecting an operator of an aerial platform comprising a work platform and a control console intended to be used on board the work platform and designed to allow the operator to initiate at least one movement of the work platform, the protection system comprising: a detection system for detecting a risky situation for the operator on board the work platform; and a system for managing the movement of the work platform, which management system is functionally connected to the detection system, the management system being configured to implement the anti-crush protection method for an operator according to the invention. In practice, the work platform is movable at least in height.

The management system can be implemented by on-board electronics of the aerial platform which is designed to control the movements of the work platform and more generally the movements of the aerial platform. The management system can also be its own electronic circuit designed to be interfaced with the on-board electronics of the aerial platform which controls the movements of the work platform and the aerial platform. This electronic circuit can be housed for example in the control console or in a box dedicated to the protection system, that is to say housing its detection system and its management system.

According to yet another aspect, the invention proposes a lifting platform, comprising a work platform movable at least in height and a control console intended to be used on board the work platform and designed to allow a operator to engage at least one upward movement of the work platform and one downward movement of the work platform, the aerial platform further comprising a system for protecting an operator of an aerial platform according to the invention.

According to a preferred embodiment, the lifting platform is self-propelled to translate on the ground in forward and reverse direction, the control console being further designed to allow the operator to initiate a translation on the ground of the lifting platform forward and reverse.

According to another preferred embodiment, the lifting platform is a scissor lifting platform or a lifting platform with a fixed vertical mast. By vertical mast aerial platform, we mean an aerial platform with a vertical mast which does not have a pivoting turret and whose orientation of the mast is fixed in relation to the chassis of the aerial platform on which it is mounted.

According to yet another embodiment, the lifting platform comprises a turret pivotally mounted on a chassis, the turret supporting a lifting device for the work platform, the control console being further designed to allow the operator to initiate rotation of the turret. In this case, the aerial platform is preferably an aerial platform with a telescopic mast or an aerial platform with an articulated mast or an aerial platform with a vertical mast and pivoting turret.

Other aspects, characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of examples and with reference to the appended drawing.

represents a scissor lift according to a first preferred embodiment, its working platform being in the lowered position on its chassis.

represents the same aerial platform, but its working platform is this time in the raised position.

represents an isolated view of the control console of this aerial platform which is provided with a detection system comprising two light barriers.

represents a local view of this aerial platform which shows one end of its work platform and the control console attached to its guardrail.

schematically represents a local perspective view of the working platform of this aerial platform with an operator standing at the control console.

schematically represents a top view for the case of the previous figure.

represents a synoptic diagram of the assembly formed by the control console, the operator protection system and the on-board electronics of the aerial platform according to the first embodiment.

represents an isolated view of another aerial platform control console which is provided with a detection system comprising three light curtains.

represents a local view of this aerial platform which shows one end of its work platform and the control console of the previous figure hanging on its guardrail.

is a view similar to the , and concerns an embodiment identical to the first embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 7, except for what concerns the detection system of the operator protection system.

represents, for this embodiment, a local perspective view of the working platform of this aerial platform with an operator standing at the control console.

schematically represents, for this embodiment, a top view on which is materialized the measurement beam of a LIDAR or LADAR detector equipping the detection system of the operator protection system and a normal positioning of the operator is standing at the control console.

represents a lifting platform according to another embodiment which lifting platform is of the articulated type.

We will now describe the aerial platform according to the first preferred embodiment with reference to Figures 1 to 7. As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, the aerial platform is a scissor lifting platform. It comprises a chassis 1, a scissor lifting mechanism 2 mounted on the chassis 1 and a working platform 3 mounted on the scissor lifting mechanism 2. The working platform 3 is provided with a horizontal table 7 surrounded by a guardrail 8 to prevent people from falling out of it. The guardrail 8 comprises four sections 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d each corresponding to another side of the plate 7. The plate 7 and the guardrail 8 may include sliding parts at one end of the working platform 3 or both in order to allow users to vary the work surface available on board the work platform 3.

The scissor lifting mechanism 2 comprises beams articulated at their center in the manner of scissors, these scissor mechanisms being mounted one above the other by their ends which are pivotally connected in order to be able to deploy. A hydraulic cylinder 4 – or alternatively several – makes it possible to activate the scissor lifting mechanism 2 in order to lower and raise the working platform 3 to the desired working height.

The chassis 1 is provided with front wheels 5 and rear wheels 6 by means of which the chassis 1 rests on the ground and which make it possible to translate the lifting platform to the ground. The front side of the aerial platform is referenced AV and its rear side is referenced AR. The aerial platform has a motor to enable its autonomous movement on the ground. The motor is generally mounted directly on chassis 1.

Alternatively, the invention also relates to lifting platforms with vertical masts. For nacelles with vertical masts, the lifting mechanism is designed in the form of an extendable mast comprising vertical parts sliding on top of each other to extend vertically to the desired working height. Their lifting mechanism sometimes includes a turret on which the extendable mast is mounted, the turret being pivotally mounted on the chassis around a vertical axis in order to be able to vary the orientation of the working platform relative to the chassis. Sometimes the work platform is mounted on the highest vertical part by means of a pendulum arm – that is, an arm hinged to the vertical mast around a horizontal axis – in order to give more flexibility for the user to reach the working position.

More generally, the invention relates to any other type of lifting platform, whatever the type of platform lifting mechanism, in particular telescopic or articulated lifting platforms. The invention is also applicable to the case of lifting platforms which are not motorized to ensure their autonomous movement on the ground, but which are towed or pushed for this purpose.

The work platform 3 is equipped with a control console 10 illustrated in Figures 3 and 4. The control console 10 is provided with control members allowing an operator to cause the movement of the work platform. work 3 to reach the desired working position. In this example, buttons 14 make it possible to select the type of movement that can be engaged with a control handle 13 among the translation of the lifting platform on the ground and the vertical movement of the work platform 3. The control handle 13 makes it possible to execute the selected type of movement: it can be tilted forwards and backwards to, depending on the case, raise or lower the work platform 3 or move the lifting platform forward or backward on the ground. In other words, the operator engages the desired movement by tilting the control handle 13. In normal operation, the engaged movement is executed as long as the control handle 13 is kept inclined and it is stopped when the operator leaves the control handle 13 return to its neutral position. The control handle 13 makes it possible to vary the speed of the selected movement according to its degree of inclination, preferably proportionally. Buttons - not shown - located on the top of the control handle 13 make it possible to modify the orientation of the steering wheels, in this case the front wheels 5 - alternatively, the rear wheels 6. The control console 10 is provided a wired connection not shown – or alternatively a wireless connection – with on-board electronics 50 – cf. - housed for example under the chassis 1. The on-board electronics 50 controls the power components of the lifting platform, in particular the motorization and the hydraulic cylinder(s) 4, depending in particular on the commands engaged by the operator at the control console order 10.

The control console 10 is removable and designed to be hung in different places on the guardrail 8 for the convenience of maneuvering the lifting platform by the operator on board the work platform 3. For this, the control console control 10 has on its right side 21 a side plate 11 in vertical extension relative to the housing of the control console 10. The plate 11 has at its upper end a suitable shape 12 - for example an upside down U-shaped section - allowing to hang the control console 10 to a horizontal bar of corresponding size of the guardrail 8. The hanging system can be different and produced in any appropriate manner which allows the operator to manually unhook or hang the control console 10 to guardrail 8 without requiring tools. It may also be possible to provide a system for manually locking the control console 10 to the guardrail 8 or even a system for indexing the control console 10 to the guardrail 8 by means, for example, of a pin in order to prevent the control console 10 from sliding on the guardrail 8, for example under the effect of vibrations.

The control console 10 is also designed to be able to be held with one hand so that the operator can manipulate the control elements 13, 14 with the other. This allows the operator to control the aerial platform from the ground. For this, the control console 10 is provided with a gripping handle 15 produced in this example in the form of an opening provided in the side plate 11. In addition, the control console 10 is sufficiently compact – preferably d 'a width of less than 30 cm, or even less than 25 cm – and of an appropriate low weight.

When on board the work platform 3, the operator manipulates the control members 13, 14 of the control console 10 when he is hooked to the guardrail 8. This is then hooked so to be on the side of the guardrail 8 towards the inside of the working platform 3 in order to conveniently access the control members 13, 14. Most often, the operator hooks the control console 10 towards the front end of the long section 8b of the guardrail 8 as illustrated in Figures 1, 2 and 4.

Given the small width of the control console 10 and that its attachment system to the guardrail 8 is arranged on the right side 21, the operator usually stands on the left side 22 of the control console 10 when handling the control organs 13, 14, in this case with the right hand. This position is illustrated by the where the operator is referenced by the letter O, the operator also being represented symbolically on the . The risk of crushing the operator then comes primarily from an obstacle external to the aerial platform which hits him from behind when the aerial platform is moving backwards or which hits him from the above when lifting the work platform 3.

However, the operator is also likely to approach the section 8b of the guardrail 8 and to lean over this section for example to look at the orientation of the wheels of the lifting platform. The operator is even likely to position himself in front of the front side 20 of the control console 10 while facing the side 8b of the guardrail 8 while manipulating the control members 13, 14 with his left hand and to lean over. above the section 8b of the guardrail 8. The risk of crushing against this section 8b then comes primarily from an external obstacle above it if it initiates an upward movement of the work platform 3.

In order to ensure the safety of the operator, the control console 10 is provided with an anti-crushing protection system for the operator when he is on board the work platform 3: this system protection is referenced 60 on the . The protection system 60 is designed to protect the operator against a risk of crushing due to an external obstacle – for example a part of a building or a structure or a tree branch – hitting him by behind or from above. It includes a detection system 61 comprising two light barriers visible in Figures 3 to 6.

A first light barrier B1 is erected in front of the part of the panel 8a of the guardrail 8 which is adjacent to the left side 22 of the control console 10. A second light barrier B2 is erected above the part of the panel 8b of the guardrail body 8 which is adjacent to the right side of the control console 10 and which extends beyond the front side 20 of the control console 10 in the rearward direction of the working platform 3. For more detail on the implementation of light barriers B1 and B2, we can refer to WO 2017/178737.

In this embodiment, it is considered that there is a situation potentially presenting a risk of crushing for the operator as soon as interference with any of the two light curtains B1, B2 is detected. In the remainder of the description of this embodiment, the fact of mentioning that the detection system 61 detects a risky situation for the operator means that the detection system 61 detects interference with any of the two light barriers B1, B2. On the contrary, the fact of mentioning that the detection system 61 does not detect a risky situation for the operator means that the detection system 61 does not detect any interference with any of the two light curtains B1, B2.

As shown in the , the protection system 60 also includes a management system 62 for the movement of the work platform 3. The detection system 61 is functionally connected to the management system 62 which is designed to manage the movement of the work platform. work 3 as a function of a detection signal supplied to it by the detection system 61. To this end, the management system 62 can be constituted by a clean electronic circuit which is interfaced with the on-board electronics 50 of the Cherry picker. This electronic circuit can for example be housed in the control console 10. Alternatively, the management system 62 can be completely implemented by the on-board electronics 50 of the lifting platform.

We will now describe how the protection system 60 manages the movements of the work platform 3 thanks to the management system 62 in cooperation with the detection system 61.

The management system 62 authorizes a normal operating mode in the absence of detection of a risky situation for the operator by the detection system 61, in other words in the absence of interference with one of the light barriers B1, B2. In this case, the management system 62 authorizes the execution of the movements of the work platform 3 without any restriction. In other words, when the operator initiates any movement of the work platform 3 at the control console 10, including by means of a translation of the lifting platform on the ground, the management system 62 authorizes its execution without restriction and the on-board electronics 50 therefore implements it at a normal speed of movement.

In the normal operating mode, the protection system 60 is preferably designed not to influence the translation on the ground of the lifting platform when the working platform 3 is in a completely lowered position because the operator is then in the situation of a simple driver of a motor vehicle. In other words, the translation on the ground of the lifting platform is authorized without taking into account the detection system 61 as long as the working platform 3 is in a completely lowered position in accordance with the third rule stated above. In other words, the first rule and the second rule are only implemented if the working platform 3 is at least partially lifted.

Furthermore, in the normal operating mode, the protection system 60 is preferably designed not to influence the execution of a movement of the work platform 3 when the movement concerned is considered to be in itself without risk. for the operator. Thus, the protection system 60 can be designed to always authorize the descent movement of the work platform 3 without taking into account the detection system 61. In other words, the descent movement of the platform is executed at its normal speed as long as this movement is engaged at the control console 10 regardless of whether or not there is interference with one or the other of the light curtains B1, B2. In fact, there is no risk of crushing the operator in the case of the downward movement of the work platform 3.

Similarly, the management system 62 can be designed to always authorize the ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion without taking into account the detection system 61. In other words, the ground translation of the lifting platform in forward motion is executed at its normal speed as long as it is engaged at the control console 10 regardless of whether or not there is interference with one or the other of the light curtains B1, B2. Indeed, in this case too, the risk of crushing for the operator remains low. This is all the more the case if the control console is fixedly mounted on the working platform 3 towards the front of the latter, contrary to the case of the embodiment described, since in this case the operator at the The control console normally looks towards the front of the aerial platform.

Furthermore, it is advantageous for the management system 62 to authorize the change of orientation of the wheels independently of any possible detection of a risky situation for the operator by the detection system 61. Indeed, the change of orientation of the wheels wheels do not cause movement of the work platform 3 and therefore do not present a risk for the operator. And this allows the operator to lean over the guardrail 8 to see the orientation of the steering wheels 5 or 6 during the change of orientation of the wheels that he operates at the control console 10.

In the normal operating mode, the protection system 60 is on the other hand designed to influence the execution of a movement of the work platform 3 in the event of detection of a risky situation for the operator when the movement concerned is considered to be at risk for the operator. This is generally the case for the upward movement of the work platform 3. In the present embodiment, this is also the case for the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse. In the following, we will refer to these movements as risky movements.

As a variant, it is nevertheless possible to treat the translation movement on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion and/or the descent movement of the work platform 3 as risky movements in the same way as the movement of translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse and the upward movement of the working platform 3 and therefore to influence in a similar manner their execution in the event of detection of a risky situation for the operator.

The way for the management system 62 to influence the execution of a risky movement of the work platform 3 engaged at the control console 10 in the event of detection of a risky situation for the operator is different depending on the chronology between the moment when the movement of the work platform 3 is initiated at the control console 10 and the moment when the detection system 61 detects the risky situation for the operator.

If a risky movement of the work platform 3 is in progress at the time when the detection system 61 detects the occurrence of a risky situation for the operator, the management system 62 causes this movement to stop. in application of the first rule. This is the situation where the risky movement of the work platform 3 is initiated by the operator at the control console 10 at a time when the detection system 61 does not detect a risky situation for the operator, but subsequently detects one while the risky movement of the work platform 3 is in progress: the first rule is then triggered. The management system 62 immediately causes the risky movement of the work platform 3 to stop as soon as the detection system 61 notifies it of the existence of the risky situation for the operator.

In other words, in this embodiment, if during the normal operating mode, the operator engages at the control console 10 the raising movement of the work platform 3 or the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse at a time when there is no interference with one or the other of the light curtains B1, B2, but such interference occurs while one or the other of these movements is during execution, the management system 62 immediately causes this movement to stop. On the other hand, as explained above, it is advantageous that the first rule does not apply to the downward movement of the work platform 3, nor to the translation on the ground of the aerial platform in forward motion.

When the first rule is triggered, the management system 62 also immediately applies a first restricted operating mode to replace the normal operating mode. This first restricted operating mode is applied at least until a reset procedure is performed.

The risky movement which was stopped by the management system 62 in application of the first rule remains prohibited throughout the time of application of the first restricted operating mode, including if the detection system 61 ceases to detect the situation at risk. risk. This prevents the risky movement from automatically restarting if the risky situation for the operator is removed.

During the first restricted operating mode, the management system 62 also applies restrictions to the execution of other movements of the work platform 3 than that stopped by application of the first rule, if they are engaged at the control desk. command 3 after activation of the first restricted operating mode. The nature of the restriction differs again depending on whether the movement of the work platform 3 concerned is considered to be at risk or not for the operator. More precisely, depending on the movement concerned of the work platform 3, the management system 62 either prohibits its execution, or authorizes it but only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement.

Any movement of the work platform 3 considered to be at risk is preferably prohibited during the first restricted operating mode. In particular, it is preferable that the execution of the raising movement of the work platform 3 is always prohibited, regardless of the current movement of the work platform 3 which has been stopped in application of the first ruler.

On the other hand, any movement of the working platform 3 considered as potentially being able to potentially reduce or eliminate the risk of crushing for the operator when a movement in progress of the work platform 3 was stopped in application of the first rule. In this sense, if the current movement of the work platform 3 which has been stopped in application of the first rule is the upward movement, then the management system 62 preferentially authorizes the execution at reduced speed of the translation on the ground of the aerial platform in forward motion, the translation on the ground of the aerial platform in reverse and the descent movement of the work platform 3. If the current movement of the work platform 3 which has been stopped in application of the first rule is the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse, then the management system 62 preferably authorizes the execution at reduced speed of the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward gear and the downward movement of the work platform 3. On the other hand, the management system 62 prohibits the upward movement of the work platform 3 as mentioned previously.

If during normal operating mode, the detection system 61 detects a risky situation for the operator at the moment when the latter initiates a risky movement from the work platform 3 to the control console 10, there is triggering of the second rule. In other words, the management system 62 authorizes the execution of this risky movement of the work platform 3 but only at a reduced speed compared to the normal speed of the movement. This is a case where the risky situation for the operator detected by the detection system 61 pre-exists or occurs simultaneously with the initiation of this movement from the work platform 3 to the control console 10 by the 'operator.

In other words, in this embodiment, if during the normal operating mode, the operator engages at the control console 10 the raising movement of the work platform 3 or the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse at a time when there is interference with one or other of the light curtains B1, B2, the management system 62 authorizes the execution of this movement but only at reduced speed. On the other hand, as explained above, it is preferable that the second rule does not apply to the downward movement of the work platform 3, nor to the translation on the ground of the aerial platform in forward motion.

The risky movement of the work platform 3 engaged at the control console 10 under the conditions of the second rule is preferably executed at reduced speed as long as it remains engaged at the control console 10, including if the system detection ceases to detect the risky situation for the operator. This avoids possible variations in movement speed which could destabilize the operator.

It is even more preferable to exclude the application of the first rule when a movement is in progress at reduced speed and to execute the movement of the work platform 3 at reduced speed in application of the second rule as long as it remains engaged at the control console without taking into account the detection system. Productivity is thus improved by avoiding stoppages in the movement of the work platform 3 which would be due to the application of the first rule. The safety of the operator is nevertheless sufficiently ensured due to the reduced speed of movement which allows him to react in the event of danger.

Even more advantageously, it can be provided that as soon as the second rule is triggered, the management system 62 immediately applies a second restricted operating mode to replace the normal operating mode. This second restricted operating mode is applied until a reset procedure is performed. The management system 62 preferably authorizes the execution of any movement of the work platform 3 that the operator engages at the control console 10 during the second restricted operating mode, but only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement. In other words, no movement of the work platform 3 is executed at the normal operating speed during the second restricted operating mode. It is even more advantageous that the management system 62 does not apply the first rule during the second restricted operating mode and authorizes the execution of any movement of the work platform 3 at reduced speed without taking into account the system detection 61. Thus, the protection system 60 will not cause the movements of the work platform 3 to stop during the second restricted operating mode. These measures all go in the direction of a gain in productivity while satisfactorily ensuring the safety of the operator due to the reduced speed of movements of the work platform 3 during the second restricted operating mode.

In this embodiment, the operation of the control handle 13 during the application of the first restricted operating mode and during the application of the second restricted operating mode is preferably similar to the normal operating mode. In other words, any movement of the working platform 3 permitted only at a reduced speed in the first restricted operating mode or in the second restricted operating mode, which is engaged at the control handle 13 is executed as long as the handle control handle 13 is kept inclined and it is stopped when the operator lets the control handle 13 return to its neutral position. And the speed of the selected movement also varies according to the degree of inclination of the control handle 13, preferably proportionally. Simply, the maximum value of the speed of the movement concerned is reduced during the application of one or other of the restricted operating modes compared to the maximum value of the speed of this movement during the normal operating mode. This prevents the operator from being disturbed by a different operation of the control handle 13 when the restricted operating modes are applied.

Whether during the first restricted operating mode or during the second restricted operating mode, it is preferable that the maximum value of the reduced speed of a movement of the work platform 3 is less than or equal to half of the maximum value of the normal speed of this same movement and is more preferably even less than or equal to a quarter or even a fifth of the latter.

As mentioned, the first restricted operating mode and the second restricted operating mode can be deactivated back to the normal operating mode through a reset procedure. At least one reset procedure is provided which can be executed on the control console 10 by the operator, which prevents a third party from having to intervene. This reset procedure is preferably the same for both restricted operating modes. It is preferable to deactivate each of the restricted operating modes by executing the reset procedure only on condition that the detection system 61 has ceased to detect a risky situation for the operator, which allows a particularly safe passage. to the normal operating mode for the operator.

For example, the reset procedure consists of disengaging any movement from the work platform 3 to the control console 10. In other words, in this embodiment, the operator must leave the control handle 13 return to neutral position. In addition, operator O must reposition himself so as to no longer interfere with light curtains B1 and B2 in order to deactivate the current restricted operating mode and reactivate normal operating mode. In other words, when these two conditions are satisfied simultaneously, the operator O can restart the movement concerned by reengaging it at the control console 10 or else initiate another movement from the work platform 3 to the control console 10, the movement then being executed at its normal speed in accordance with the normal mode of operation. The simplicity of this reset procedure has the advantage of promoting productivity while promoting a safe transition to normal operating mode due to the fact that no movement is engaged at the control console 10 at the time of transition to normal operating mode.

Alternatively, the reset procedure may additionally include having to press a reset button on the control console 10.

Optionally, a push button 40 - or another type of manually actuated member - can be arranged on the control console 10 to allow the operator to neutralize the protection system 60, in other words to prevent the system from protection 60 to stop the movements of the work platform 3, including by translation on the ground of the lifting platform, or to reduce its speed. This makes it possible to avoid unwanted triggering of the protection system 60 when the control console 10 is not attached to the guardrail 8, but the operator holds the control console 10 by hand. It is preferable that the neutralization is effective only as long as the operator keeps the push button 40 or the organ concerned pressed. Furthermore, it is preferable for the operator to be informed of the neutralization of the protection system 60 by any signaling on the control console 10 or otherwise. It is preferable to provide such a device for neutralizing the protection system 60 only for removable type control consoles which are intended to be used with one hand by the operator while he holds it with his other hand.

Figures 8 and 9 illustrate a second preferred embodiment using another control console - referenced 100 - provided with manual control elements 113, 114 similar to those of the control console 10. The elements corresponding to those of the control console 10 are referenced by the same numbers increased by 100.

The entire description made for the first preferred embodiment is applicable for this second preferred embodiment, except for the differences discussed below.

The control console 100 is also removable and designed to be hung in different locations on the guardrail 8 by the operator without using tools. But in this case, its hooking system 112 is placed on the rear side 123 of the control console 100. The control console 100 has a size and weight greater than those of the control console 10 and is not provided to be held with one hand while manipulating the control members 113, 114 with the other hand.

The control console 100 includes an operator protection system comprising a detection system with two light curtains B101, B102 which respectively provide the same function as the light curtains B1, B2 of the control console 10. It will be noted that the detector photoelectric detector D102 of the light curtain B102 is housed laterally in the lower part of the front side of the control console 100. The photoelectric detector D101 of the light curtain B101 is housed in a support 130 which advances relative to a rear plate 111 for mounting the guard -body 8. This allows the light curtain B101 to be placed at the appropriate distance from the side 8a of the guardrail 8.

Finally, because the control console 100 is wider than the control console 10, it is desirable to protect the operator from the risk of being crushed against the control console 100. To this end, the detection system includes a third light curtain B103. The light curtain B103 extends above the control console 100 preferably from the rear 123 thereof so that the operator does not interfere with the light curtain 103 when standing straight at the console control panel 100, but on the contrary it interferes with it when it is leaned beyond a certain angle on the control console 100. For this, it is advantageous for the light curtain B103 to extend from the rear 123 of the control console 100 while being oriented upwards towards the front 120 of the control console 100 as illustrated. For more details on the implementation of light barriers B101, B102 and B103, please refer to WO 2017/178737.

In this second embodiment, a protection system is provided similar to the protection system 60 of the first embodiment: its management system implements the same management of movements of the work platform as the management system 62 of the first embodiment. The only difference is that a crushing risk situation for operator O is determined this time by the detection of interference with any of the light curtains B101, B102 and B103.

It is preferable that the maximum detection distance of the light curtains B101, B102 and B103 as well as that of the light curtains B1, B2 of the first embodiment be limited appropriately in order to avoid unwanted triggering of the protection system when the working environment at height is cluttered. From this point of view, it is preferable that the maximum detection distance of each of the light barriers, measured from the control console 10, 100, is less than or equal to 100 cm and more preferably less than or equal to 60 cm. This maximum detection distance is referenced respectively l1 and l2 for the light curtains B1 and B2 of the control console 10 – cf. - and it is referenced respectively l101, l102 and l103 for the light curtains B101, B102 and B103 of the control console 100.

Figures 10 to 12 illustrate a third preferred embodiment which is based on the first embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 7. The only differences of this third embodiment compared to the first embodiment reside in the system detection of the operator protection system 60. Consequently, all the description made for the first embodiment applies to this third embodiment and the same reference numbers are used to designate the same elements, except for concerning the detection system – referenced below 61' – and its components. The detection system 61' is functionally connected to the management system 62 as in the first embodiment. The 61' detection system is based on one or more LIDAR or LADAR sensors. It will now be described in more detail.

The detection system 61' includes a first LIDAR or LADAR sensor referenced D201. The sensor D201 is arranged on the control console 10 so as to point towards the front of the control console 10 towards the place where the operator O normally stands in front of the control console 10 when he uses it to control the movements of the work platform 3. The measuring beam of sensor D201 is symbolized by dashes and is referenced F1. The sensor D201 therefore makes it possible to measure the distance between the operator O and the control console 10 when he stands in front of the control console 10.

As illustrated on the , the sensor D201 makes it possible to define a protected driving zone referenced Z2 in which the operator O is supposed to stay when he uses the control console 10. The protected driving zone Z2 corresponds to a distance interval defined in relation to the sensor D201. The protected driving zone Z2 is defined as extending from a distance L1 to a distance L2 greater than L1, both being defined with respect to the sensor D201. This distance interval is defined so as to correspond to a position of the operator O relative to the control console 10 which is neither too close nor too far from it.

In operation, we consider that there is potentially a risky situation for the operator O since the distance of the operator O measured by the sensor D201 is outside this distance interval. This is the case if the operator O stands in a zone Z1 corresponding to a distance less than the distance L1 relative to the sensor D201. This is also the case if the operator O stands in a zone Z3 corresponding to a distance greater than the distance L2 relative to the sensor D201.

We consider that there is also potentially a risky situation for the operator O in the case where the sensor D201 does not report a distance measurement because the operator O is standing outside the measurement beam F1 or elsewhere. beyond the measurement range of sensor D201 which is in this case a distance L3 greater than L2.

In summary, we consider that, in operation, there is potentially a risk situation as soon as the detection system 61' determines by means of the sensor D201 that the operator O is outside the zone Z2.

The 61' detection system can be supplemented by a second LIDAR or LADAR sensor referenced D202. Its measurement beam is referenced F2 in Figures 10 and 11. Sensor D202 is dedicated to detecting a risk of operator O being crushed against panel 8b of guardrail 8 located next to the control console 10 when it is attached to the dedicated location of the guardrail 8. The second sensor D202 is useful due to the small size of the control console 10. In fact, it is possible that the detection system 61' determines that the operator O is located in the distance interval relative to the first sensor D201 which corresponds to the zone Z2 while it can simultaneously be tilted towards the pan 8b, which potentially corresponds to a situation with a risk of crushing for the O operator.

The sensor D202 is arranged on the control console 10 so that, on the one hand, its measuring beam F2 does not meet the operator O when he is normally standing at the control console 10, that is to say - say without being leaned towards the side 8b of the guardrail 8. And on the other hand, the sensor D202 is arranged on the control console 10 so that its measuring beam F2 meets the operator O when it is leaned towards pan 8b while it is located in the distance interval relative to the first sensor D201 which corresponds to zone Z2. As can be seen in Figures 11 and 12, it is arranged on the lateral side of the control console 10 which is close to the panel 8b. The measuring range of the D202 sensor may be more limited than that of the D201 sensor.

Consequently, we consider that there is potentially a risky situation for the operator O since the sensor D202 provides a distance measurement due to the fact that the operator O cuts the measurement beam F2.

The sensor D202 thus makes it possible to laterally delimit the protected driving zone Z2 on the side corresponding to the side 8b of the guardrail 8.

It will be understood that the sensor D202 provides the same protection function as the light barrier B2 of the first embodiment. Alternatively, sensor D202 is replaced by light curtain B2 of the first embodiment.

In summary, in this third embodiment, the detection system 61' detects a potentially risky situation for the operator O as soon as it determines by means of the sensors D201 and D202 that the operator O is located outside of protected driving zone Z2. In cooperation with the detection system 61', the management system 62 of the operator protection system implements the same management of the movements of the work platform 3 as that which was described above for the first embodiment.

There represents a self-propelled lifting platform according to another embodiment which lifting platform is of the articulated type. It comprises a chassis 301 supporting a lifting device 302 of a working platform 303. The lifting device 302 comprises in a known manner two articulated arms supporting at its upper end a telescopic arm at the end of which the platform is supported -working form 303 possibly by means of a small pendulum arm. The lifting device 302 is mounted on the chassis 301 via a turret 304. The turret 304 can rotate around a vertical axis relative to the chassis 301, which makes it possible to modify the angular orientation of the lifting device 302 relative to the chassis.

A control console 300 is fixedly mounted on or near the guardrail of the work platform 303. The control console 300 allows an operator to engage the different movements of the work platform 303, including including the translation on the ground of the chassis 301. It therefore makes it possible to translate the lifting platform on the ground in forward and reverse direction, to raise or lower the working platform 303 and to rotate the turret 304 relative to the chassis 301.

The 300 control console is equipped with an operator protection system on board the aerial platform which operates in a similar manner to those described so far. In other words, it comprises a detection system used to detect a risky situation for the operator on board the work platform 303. The detection system can be similar to one or other of the embodiments described previously.

The detection system is functionally connected to a management system which manages the movements of the work platform 303 in particular on the basis of the detection signal provided by the detection system.

The management system implements management of the movements of the work platform 303 similar to that described for the embodiments described previously, but by additionally managing the rotational movement of the turret 304. From this point of view , the rotational movement of the turret 304 is considered to be a risky movement in both directions of rotation. In other words, the first rule is also implemented with regard to the rotation of the turret 304, that is to say to stop its rotation if it is in progress at the moment when a risky situation for the operator is detected. In this case, the first restricted operating mode will authorize the rotation of the turret 304 at a reduced speed in the opposite direction compared to the direction of rotation which was stopped in application of the first rule. If the second rule is triggered, the rotation of the turret 304 will also be authorized but only at a reduced speed compared to the normal rotation speed, whatever the direction of rotation. The first restricted operating mode and the second restricted operating mode described for the other embodiments can be applied in the same way, considering that the rotational movement of the turret 304 is a risky movement in both directions of rotation.

Of course, the present invention is not limited to the examples and the embodiment described and represented, but it is capable of numerous variants accessible to those skilled in the art.

Claims (22)

Method of anti-crush protection of an operator (O) on board a work platform (3; 303) of an aerial platform which method is implemented automatically, the aerial platform comprising a console control (10; 100; 300) intended for use on board the work platform and designed to allow the operator to initiate movement of the work platform, the lifting platform further comprising a system detection device (61; 61') for detecting a risky situation for the operator (O) on board the work platform and the protection method comprising:

• the implementation of a first rule according to which the movement of the work platform is stopped if the movement is in progress at the time when the detection system (61; 61') detects the occurrence of the risky situation for the operator (O), and
• the implementation of a second rule according to which the movement of the work platform is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement if the risky situation for the operator (O) is detected by the detection system at the time of engagement of the movement at the control console (10).

Method according to claim 1, which comprises:

• after triggering the second rule, executing the movement of the work platform at reduced speed as long as the movement remains engaged at the control console (10; 100; 300), including if the detection system ( 61; 61') ceases to detect the risky situation for the operator (O).

A method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the method comprises:

• the exclusion of the application of the first rule when the movement is in progress at reduced speed, and
• after triggering the second rule, executing the movement at reduced speed as long as the movement remains engaged at the control console (10; 100; 300) without taking into account the detection system.

Method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to initiate a raising movement of the work platform, the method including:

• the implementation of the first rule according to which the raising movement of the work platform is stopped if the raising movement of the work platform is in progress at the time when the detection system (61; 61' ) detects the occurrence of the risky situation for the operator (O), and
• the implementation of the second rule according to which the raising movement of the work platform is executed at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement if the risky situation for the operator (O) is detected by the detection system at the time of engagement of the lifting movement of the work platform to the control console (10).

Method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in which the lifting platform is self-propelled to be able to translate on the ground, the control console (10; 100; 300) being designed to allow the operator to initiate a translation on the ground of the lifting platform, the method comprising:

• the implementation of the first rule according to which the ground translation of the lifting platform is stopped if the ground translation of the lifting platform is in progress at the time when the detection system (61) detects the occurrence of the risk situation for the operator (O), and
• the implementation of the second rule according to which the ground translation of the aerial platform is carried out at a reduced speed compared to a normal ground translation speed of the aerial platform if the situation poses a risk for the operator (O) is detected by the detection system at the time of engagement of ground translation of the lifting platform at the control console (10).

Method according to claim 5, comprising:

• implementing the first rule and the second rule only if the work platform is at least partially raised, and
• the implementation of a third rule according to which the translation on the ground of the aerial platform is authorized without taking into account the detection system on the condition that the work platform is in a completely lowered position.

Method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, in which the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage any one of several different movements of the platform. work, the process comprising:

• excluding at least one movement of the work platform from the implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to authorize this movement of the work platform without taking into account the detection system .

Method according to claim 7, in which the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to initiate a lowering movement of the work platform, the method comprising:

• excluding the downward movement of the work platform from the implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to allow the downward movement of the work platform without taking into account the detection system .

Method according to claim 7 or 8, in which the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to initiate translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion, the method comprising:

• the exclusion of the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion from the implementation of the first rule and the second rule so as to authorize the translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward motion without taking into account the system of detection.

Method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, in which at least one reset procedure is provided, the reset procedure being executable at the control console, the method comprising:

• in the event of triggering of the first rule, the application of a first restricted operating mode until the reset procedure is executed, and
• the prohibition of movement during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode.

Method according to claim 10, in which the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage any one of several different movements of the work platform, the method comprising for each movement of the work platform:

• either the prohibition of movement of the work platform during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode,
• or the authorization to execute the movement of the work platform only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode.

Method according to claim 10, in which the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage any one of several different movements of the work platform, the method comprising for each movement of the work platform:

• either the prohibition of movement of the work platform during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode,
• or the authorization to execute the movement of the work platform only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement without taking into account the detection system during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode.

Method according to claim 11 or 12, in which the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to initiate a raising movement of the work platform, the method comprising:

• the prohibition of the upward movement of the work platform during the entire time of application of the first restricted operating mode, regardless of the movement of the work platform which was in progress at the time of triggering the first rule.

Method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, in which the lifting platform is self-propelled to be able to translate on the ground and the control console (10; 100) is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage in translation on the ground. ground of the lifting platform in forward direction, a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse, a raising movement of the work platform and a lowering movement of the working platform, the method comprising during the application of the first restricted operating mode due to triggering of the first rule at a time when the work platform was subject only to an upward movement:

• the authorization to execute only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement any movement among the translation on the ground of the aerial platform in forward direction, the translation on the ground of the aerial platform in reverse and the downward movement of the work platform.

Method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, in which the lifting platform is self-propelled to be able to translate on the ground and the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in forward direction, a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse, a raising movement of the work platform and a lowering movement of the working platform, the method comprising during the application of the first restricted operating mode due to triggering of the first rule at a time when the work platform was only subject to a translation on the ground of the lifting platform in reverse:

• the authorization to execute only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement the translation on the ground of the aerial platform in forward motion and the descent movement of the work platform.

Method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, in which the control console (10; 100; 300) is designed to allow the operator to selectively engage any movement among a plurality of different movements of the platform. form of work and at least one reset procedure is provided, the reset procedure being executable at the control console, the method comprising:

• in the event of triggering of the second rule, the application of a second restricted operating mode until the reset procedure is executed, and
• during the entire time of application of the second restricted operating mode, the authorization to execute any movement of the work platform only at a reduced speed compared to a normal speed of movement.

Method according to claim 16, in which the method comprises throughout the time of application of the second mode of operation:

• the exclusion of the application of the first rule and the authorization to execute any movement of the work platform at reduced speed without taking into account the detection system.

Method according to any one of claims 10 to 17, comprising:

• when the first restricted operating mode is being applied, deactivating the first restricted operating mode in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that the detection system (61; 61') has ceased to detect a risky situation for the operator (O), and/or:
• when the second restricted operating mode is being applied, deactivation of the second restricted operating mode in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that the detection system (61; 61') has ceased to detect a risky situation for the operator (O).

A method according to any one of claims 10 to 18, wherein the reset procedure comprises or consists of disengaging any movement from the work platform to the control console, the method comprising deactivating the first restricted mode of operation and/or the second mode of operation in the event of execution of the reset procedure provided that any movement of the work platform is disengaged at the control console and that the detection system (61; 61') has ceased to detect the risky situation for the operator (O). Method according to any one of claims 1 to 19, in which the lifting platform comprises a turret (304) pivotally mounted on a chassis (301), the turret supporting a lifting device (302) of the working platform ( 303), the control console (300) being designed to allow the operator to initiate rotation of the turret (304), the method comprising:

• the implementation of the first rule which includes stopping the rotation of the turret (304) if the rotation of the turret is in progress at the time when the detection system (61) detects the occurrence of the risk situation for the operator (O), and
• the implementation of the second rule which includes the rotation of the turret (304) at a reduced speed compared to a normal rotation speed of the turret if the risky situation for the operator (O) is detected by the system detection at the moment when the rotation of the turret is engaged at the control console (10).

Anti-crush protection system (60) for an operator (O) of an aerial platform comprising a work platform (3; 303) and a control console (10; 100; 300) intended to be used at edge of the work platform and designed to allow the operator to initiate at least one movement of the work platform (3), the protection system comprising:

• a detection system (61; 61') for detecting a risky situation for the operator (O) on board the work platform; And
• a management system (62) for the movement of the work platform, which management system is functionally connected to the detection system,

in which the management system (62) is configured to implement the method according to any one of claims 1 to 20. Lifting platform, comprising a work platform (3; 303) movable at least in height and a control console (10; 100; 300) intended to be used on board the work platform (3; 303) and designed to allow an operator (O) to engage at least one upward movement of the work platform and one downward movement of the work platform, the lifting platform further comprising a protection system according to claim 21, and preferably:

• the lifting platform is self-propelled to translate on the ground in forward and reverse direction in which case the control console (10; 100; 300) is further designed to allow the operator to initiate translation on the ground of the nacelle elevator in forward and reverse direction, and/or
• the lifting platform:
  • either is a scissor lift or a fixed vertical mast lift,
  • either comprises a turret (304) pivotally mounted on a chassis (301) in which case the turret supports a lifting device (302) of the work platform (303) and the control console (300) is further designed to allow the operator to engage a rotation of the turret (304), the lifting platform preferably being a lifting platform with a telescopic mast or a lifting platform with an articulated mast or a lifting platform with a vertical mast and pivoting turret.