WO2011151607A1

WO2011151607A1 - Pallet segment and pallet comprising at least two such segments

Info

Publication number: WO2011151607A1
Application number: PCT/FR2011/051269
Authority: WO
Inventors: Frédéric DUBLY; Grégory DUBLY
Original assignee: Dsi
Priority date: 2010-06-03
Filing date: 2011-06-03
Publication date: 2011-12-08
Also published as: FR2960861A1; FR2960861B1

Abstract

Pallet segment (2, 102) comprising a framework (30, 130) and a platform (20, 120) fixed to the framework (30, 130). The pallet segment (2, 102) comprises joining means designed to removably assemble the pallet segment (2, 102) to a complementary pallet segment (102, 2).

Description

PALLET SEGMENT AND PALLET COMPRISING AT LEAST TWO

SUCH SEGMENTS

The present invention relates to a pallet segment for storing and transporting objects. In addition, the present invention relates to a pallet for storing and transporting objects. The present invention finds application in the field of storage and transport of various objects, as well as in the field of product presentation in the supermarket.

A transport pallet of the prior art is formed by a plate under which are fixed pads and soles, so as to keep the tray away from the ground. A pallet of the prior art is generally made of wood and shaped like a rectangle. A prior art palette is suitable for storing and transporting objects and sometimes also serves as a display for displaying products in the supermarket. However, its too large dimensions make such a display unattractive and impractical, as they prevent an easy grip of a product by a customer of the supermarket.

To present products simply and quickly, a half-pallet of the prior art has been made of wood. To optimize the storage and handling of such a half-pallet, for the storage and transport of objects, two half-wooden pallets are placed on a base or wooden pallet-support. However, during the presentation of products, it is necessary to deposit each loaded half-pallet on the ground, to take back the pallet-support or to arrange the pallet-support in a dedicated place. In addition, the complete pallet, which includes both half-pallets and the pallet-carrier, represents a relatively large size and overweight. In addition, the maintenance in position of each demi-pallet on the pallet-support requires tedious manual operations.

An object of the present invention is to solve, in whole or in part, the problems mentioned above.

To this end, the invention relates to a pallet segment, for storing and transporting objects, comprising a frame and a tray designed to store objects, the tray being fixed to the frame.

The pallet segment is characterized in that it incorporates connecting means which are designed to removably assemble the pallet segment to at least one complementary pallet segment so as to juxtapose the platters of the pallet segments.

In other words, a pallet segment according to the invention allows to form, when it is joined to a complementary pallet segment, a complete pallet for storing and transporting objects. In the disassembled state, a pallet segment according to the invention can fulfill the display function of these objects. Two pallet segments according to the invention thus have small dimensions and they can be assembled on the ground, empty or when products are stored on their trays, which avoids manual unloading before assembly or disassembly.

According to one embodiment, the connecting means are integrated in the chassis.

Thus, the connecting means are discrete and protected from external shocks.

According to one embodiment, the frame comprises at least two soles designed to rest on a flat floor and a floor that is designed to support the plate, the soles being fixed relative to the floor.

Thus, a pallet segment, and therefore the pallet, can be grasped by a handling device, such as a pallet fork or mobile forklift.

According to one embodiment, the connecting means comprise at least one sliding member and at least one housing adapted to receive the sliding member.

Thus, the assembly of the pallet segments can be achieved by simple pushes, possibly automatically.

According to one embodiment, the connecting means comprise two sliding members and a synchronizing member, the synchronizing member being pivotally mounted and articulated on each sliding member so that the sliding of one sliding member causes the sliding of the other sliding organ.

Thus, the synchronization of the sliding members facilitates the maneuver by an operator or an automaton.

According to one embodiment, a sliding member is longer than the other sliding member, and the synchronizing member is a generally straight arm. Thus, the sliding members can be easily integrated into the frame, because they are relatively compact.

According to one embodiment, the connecting means further comprise at least one locking member designed to maintain at least two pallet segments in the assembled state by the connecting means, the locking member being arranged to allow its unlocking by an operator or an automatic mechanism.

Thus, the or each locking member prevents the spontaneous and inadvertent disassembly of two pallet segments.

According to one embodiment, the connecting means comprise two sliding members, a respective locking member being fixed to one of the sliding members so as to cooperate with an abutment fixed to the complementary pallet segment.

Thus, such a locking member makes it possible automatically to lock the connection means in assembly configuration.

According to one embodiment, the or each locking member has several adjacent notches so as to maintain at least two pallet segments in the assembled state by the connecting means, including in the presence of a clearance existing between the plates of pallet segments and / or between the connecting means, for example a clearance of between 1 mm and 10 mm.

Thus, the link mechanism tolerates a certain clearance, which does not prevent the locking members from performing their function, which makes the pallet segment particularly reliable.

According to one embodiment, the or each locking member is formed of a pivotally mounted locking cam, the notches being arranged on a curved surface of a respective locking cam.

Thus, each locking member has a relatively compact structure and simple to manufacture and assemble.

According to one embodiment, a pallet segment according to the invention further comprises at least one elastic return member adapted to recall a respective locking member in the locking position, the elastic return member being preferably a helical spring working in compression. Thus, such an elastic return member facilitates and ensures the locking of the pallet segments.

According to one embodiment, the connecting means further comprise two locking members designed to hold two pallet segments in the assembled state by the means of the Iaison, the locking members being formed by bolts arranged to penetrate simultaneously into each other. a respective notch, each locking member being movable under the effect of an elastic return member in the locking position.

Thus, such locking members avoid inadvertent unlocking by an unexpected maneuver.

According to one embodiment, the frame and the plate are made of synthetic material, preferably polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP).

Thus, a pallet segment according to the invention, therefore the pallet according to the invention, is light and mechanically resistant.

Moreover, the present invention relates to a pallet for storing and transporting objects, characterized in that it comprises at least two pallet segments as described above, the pallet segments being assembled from removably by the connecting means so as to juxtapose the trays of the pallet segments.

Thus, a complete pallet may be formed of two semi-pallets assembled by their integrated connecting means by juxtaposing the trays of the pallet segments. A complete pallet according to the invention, formed of two or more pallet segments according to the invention, has a mechanical strength at least equivalent to the mechanical strength of a pallet of the prior art. Conversely, the complete pallet, which allows the storage and transportation of products, can be broken down into pallet segments, which each form an aesthetic display to make products easily accessible to customers in the supermarket.

According to one embodiment, two pallet segments have trays having the same individual area, the juxtaposition of the trays of two pallet segments defining a double area of the individual area.

Thus, a double pallet for storage and transport can be dissociated into two half-pallets which each form a display to make easily accessible products to customers of the supermarket. According to one embodiment, each plate has generally a rectangle shape, the rectangles having at least two sides of the same length, the connecting means being arranged to assemble the two pallet segments on these sides of the same length.

Thus, the pallet has a compact shape and little elongated, so easy to store and handle.

The present invention will be well understood and its advantages will also become apparent in the light of the description which follows, which is given solely by way of nonlimiting example and which is given with reference to the appended drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a pallet according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a perspective view of the pallet of Figure 1, at an angle different from Figure 1; Figure 3 is a view similar to Figure 1 of a pallet segment according to a first embodiment of the invention and in a disassembly configuration;

Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 2 of the pallet segment of Figure 3 in an assembly configuration; FIG. 5 is a perspective view, at the angle of FIG. 3 and truncated by the plane V in FIG. 3, of the segment of FIG. 3 in the disassembly configuration;

Figure 6 is a view similar to Figure 5 of the pallet segment of Figure 3 in the assembly configuration; Figure 7 is a view similar to Figure 5 of the pallet of Figure 1;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view, according to the angle of FIG. 4, of connecting means integrated in the pallet segment of FIG. 5 and in the assembly configuration;

Figure 9 is a truncated perspective view of a pallet according to a second embodiment of the invention and comprising two pallet segments according to a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 10 is a top view of the pallet of Figure 9; Figure 11 is an exploded perspective view of a segment of the pallet of Figure 9;

Figure 1 2 is an exploded perspective view, at an angle different from Figure 1 1, the pallet segment of Figure 1 1;

Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view, at an angle different from Figure 1 1, of a portion of the pallet segment of Figure 1 1;

Figure 14 is a detail view XIV in Figure 1 1;

Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a portion of the pallet segment of Fig. 11 with the pallet in the assembled position;

Fig. 16 is a detail view XVI in Fig. 15;

Figure 17 is a perspective view of the portion of the pallet segment of Figure 11, the pallet being in the disassembled position;

Figure 18 is a schematic section of a pallet according to a third embodiment of the invention and comprising two pallet segments according to a third embodiment of the invention, the pallet being in disassembled position; and

Figure 19 is a view similar to Figure 18, the pallet being in the assembled position.

FIG. 1 illustrates a pallet 1 which is in accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention and which comprises two half-pallets 2 and 1 02. Each half-pallet 2 or 1 02 forms a segment of the pallet 1. In other words, the pallet 1 is a complete pallet formed of the two half-pallets 2 and 102. The pallet 1 can be used for storing and transporting objects, such as products sold in the supermarket. Each half pallet 2 or 102 can be used to store and display such products.

The half-pallet 2 comprises a frame 30 and a plate 20 fixed to the frame 30. The plate 20 is designed to store the objects. In particular, the plate 20 is flat, which allows to place the objects on the plate 20 stably, when the half-pallet 2 is placed on a flat floor. In the example of the figures, the plate 20 is solid and smooth. The plate 20 is made with not shown ribs, which increases the stiffness or the moments of inertia of the plate 20, therefore its mechanical strength, while limiting the size and weight of the plate 20. Thus, the pallet 1 in the assembled state and under load has a low deflection in its central region, which limits the mechanical stresses, particularly in fatigue, exerted on the pallet 1.

Most of the components of the half-pallet 2, in particular, the frame 30 and the plate 40, are made of synthetic plastic material, for example polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP).

Pallet 1 has a length 1 .1 of about 1200 mm and a width of about 1000 mm. Pallet 1 occupies a parallelepipedic volume with a rectangular base. The plate 20 has a generally rectangular shape. The width of the plate 20 is equal to the width 1 .2 of the pallet 1, ie 1000 mm. The length of the plate 20 is half the length 1 .2 of the pallet 1, ie 600 mm. Since the half-pallet 102 is similar to the half-pallet 2, the two sides, long and wide, of the rectangle defined by the plate 20 have the same lengths as the sides of the rectangle defined by the plate 120 of the half-pallet. pallet 102, respectively 1000 mm and 600 mm.

The half-pallet 2 and the half-pallet 102 incorporate connecting means which are designed to removably assemble the two half-pallets 2 and 1 02 so as to juxtapose the trays 20 and 120 of the half-pallets 2 and 102. The connecting means are described below in relation to FIGS. 5 to 8.

In the present application, the term "juxtapose" applies to two elements that are close to or close to one another, without necessarily being in contact. Two juxtaposed elements can be separated by a functional game, even by a guard distance.

As the two half-pallets 2 and 1 02 have trays 20 and 120 which have the same individual area. The plate of the pallet 1, which is formed by the juxtaposition of the trays 20 and 120 of the two half-pallets 2 and 1 02, has not suble dou ble of this su surface individual.

The means of the iaison are arranged to assemble the two half-pallets 2 and 1 02 along their sides of the same length. In the example of FIGS. 1 to 8, the connecting means are arranged to assemble the two half-pallets 2 and 102 on their longest sides, those of 1000 mm.

Figures 1, 2 and 7 illustrate the pallet 1 in the assembled state, that is to say when the half-pallets 2 and 102 are in assembly configuration. In the assembly configuration, the half-pallet means 2 cooperate with the connecting means of the half-pallet 102. In this assembled state, the two half-pallets 2 and 102 are juxtaposed and their respective trays 20 and 120 are juxtaposed and joined.

As shown in FIG. 2, the frame 30 comprises three flanges 31, 32 and 33 which are designed to rest on a flat floor. The three flanges 31, 32 and 33 are flat and extend over a substantial part of the length of the half-pallet 2.

The frame 30 also comprises a floor 50 which is fixed to the plate 20, for example by gluing, welding, screwing, riveting or other equivalent means. The floor 50 is designed to support the tray 20.

The frame 30 further comprises six pads 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 and 39 of generally cubic shape. Each stud 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 or 39 is fixed to the floor 50, for example by gluing, welding, screwing, riveting or other equivalent means.

In other words, the frame 30 is formed, from the plate 40 to the ground, by the superposition of the floor 50, pads 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 and 39 and soles 31, 32 and 33.

The pads 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 and 39 are fixed in pairs to a respective sole 31, 32 or 33, for example by gluing, welding, screwing, riveting or other equivalent means. Thus, the pads 34 and 35 are fixed to the sole 31, the pads 36 and 37 to the sole 32 and the pads 38 and 39 are fixed to the sole 33.

The pads are distributed approximately uniformly on the lower face 51 of the floor 50. The dimensions of each pad 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 or 39 are determined to withstand the forces exerted by the weight of the products stored on the tray 20 and to transmit such forces to the soles 31, 32 and 33, so the ground. The relative position of each stud 34, 35, 36, 37, 38 or 39 is determined so as to limit the deflection of the plate 20 and the floor 50 and so as to allow the passage of a handling device, such as a pallet fork or mobile forklift.

As shown in Figures 5 to 8, the connecting means of the half-pallet 2 comprises a connecting mechanism which comprises a long slide 61 and a short slide 62 which have shaped shapes with a "U" section and which extend parallel to the width 1.2 of the half-pallet 2 or to the flanges 31, 32 and 33. The short glider 62 is said to be "short" because it is shorter than the long slide 61.

The connecting means integrated in the half-pallet 2 further comprise two housings 71 and 72 designed to receive respectively the long slide 61 and the short slide 62. Each housing 71 and 72 is formed by a rectangular parallelepipedal volume of rectangular section and of which the dimensions are adapted to house the entire long slide 61. Each housing 71 or 72 extends in the thickness of the floor 50 and parallel to the width of the half-pallet 2 or soles 31, 32 and 33. In the direction of the width 1 .2 of the half-pallet 2 each housing 71 and 72 is located between them, 31 and 32 or 32 and 33, respectively. A housing 71 or 72 opens onto a respective proximal opening 71 .1 or 72.1.

In the present application, the adjective "proximal" refers to an element that is near the side of the half-pallet 2 closest to the half-pallet 102 when the pallet 1 is in the assembled state. In the present application, the adjective "distal" refers to an element that is far from the side of the half-pallet 2 closest to the half-pallet 102 when the pallet 1 is in the assembled state.

The long slide 61 forms a sliding member in the housing 71. The short slide 61 forms a sliding member in the housing 72. In FIG. 5, the long runner 61 and the short runner 62 are in disassembly configuration, in which they do not fulfill their function of connection between the half-pallets 2 and 102. In FIG. 6, the first and sixth members are in an assembly configuration, in which they fulfill their function of connection between the half-pallets 2 and 102. The comparison of FIGS. 5 and 6 shows the amplitude of the respective races of the long slide 61 and the short slide 62 between the disassembly configuration and the configuration. assembly. The long slide 61 and the short slide 62 form members that can slide respectively in the housings 71 and 72.

The connecting means integrated in the half-pallet 2 further comprises a synchronization arm 63 of rectilinear shape. The synchronizing arm 63 extends inside the floor 50. The distal end 61.1 of the long slide 61 is articulated at an end 63.1 of the synchronizing arm 63. The distal end 62.1 of the short slide 62 is hinged at one end 63.2 of the synchronization arm 63.

As shown in FIGS. 5 to 8, the synchronizing arm 63 is pivotally mounted, by means of an axis 64, with respect to the floor 50 and in a plane parallel to the plate 20. As shown by the comparison of FIGS. the synchronizing arm 63 has an angular stroke of about 60 ° between the disassembly configuration and the assembly configuration. The synchronizing arm 63 is generally rectilinear. The synchronizing arm 63 forms a synchronizing member pivotally mounted and articulated on the long slide 61 and short 62 so that the sliding of one slide causes the sliding of the other slide.

As shown in FIG. 8, at the distal end 61.1 of the long slide 61, the connecting mechanism comprises a locking cam 61.2, a first spring 61.3 and an anchoring tab 61.4 and an anchoring member 61.5. .

The locking cam 61.2 is fixed to the long slide 61. When the connecting mechanism is mounted on the half-pallet 2, the locking cam 61.2 which extends perpendicular to the floor 50 and through a slot 52 opening on the face lower 51 of the floor 50.

The first spring 61.3 is of helical type working in tension. The first spring 61.3 extends parallel to the longitudinal direction of the long slide 61. A first end of the first spring 61.3 is anchored to the anchor tab 61.4, which is fixed to the long slide 61. A second end of the first spring 61.3 is anchored to the anchor 61.5, which is fixed to the floor 50. The anchor 61.5 has a butterfly nut shape.

Furthermore, the link mechanism further comprises a locking trigger 61.6 and a second spring 61.7. The locking trigger 61.6 is movable in translation in a plane parallel to the floor 50 and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the long slide 61. A free end 61 of the locking trigger 61 extends towards the short slide 62 and through an orifice in the long slide 61.

When the free end 61 passes through this orifice, the locking trigger 61 is in the locking position, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 8, in which the locking trigger 61 bears against a locking plate 160 integral with the half-pallet 102. The locking plate 1 60 forms a stop with which the locking trigger 61 6 engages, which forms a locking member which is fixed to the long slide 61.

The second spring 61.7 is of helical type working in compression. The second spring 61.7 is anchored on the one hand to the long slide 61 and on the other hand to the locking trigger 61 .6.

Furthermore, the mechanism of the iaison further comprises an unlocking pedal 62.2, u n third spring 62.3, an assembly rod 62.4 and a fourth spring 62.5.

The release pedal 62.2 has a foot actuating surface 62.21 and a tongue 62.22 extending, in a guided manner, along the short slide 62 and on either side of the short slide 62. As shown by FIGS. Figures 2, 5 and 6, the foot actuating surface 62.21 is flush with the distal edge of the half-pallet 2, so as to be operable by the foot of an operator.

The connecting rod 62.4 extends, in a guided manner, along the short slide 62 and on either side of the short slide 62. The connecting rod 62.4 has a button designed to grip the the assembly rod 62.4 by an operator.

The third spring 62.3 is of helical type working in compression. The third spring 62.3 is anchored on the one hand to the floor 50 and on the other hand to the unlocking pedal 62.2 via the foot actuating surface 62.21.

The fourth spring 62.5 is of helical type working in tension. The fourth spring 62.5 is anchored on the one hand to the floor 50 and on the other hand to the connecting rod 62.4.

Since the half-pallet 102 is similar to the half-pallet 2, the description of the half-pallet 2 given above in connection with FIGS. 1 to 8 may be transposed to the half-pallet 102. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 8, the half-pallet 102 is similar to the half-pallet 2. An element of the half-pallet 102 is similar to a half-pallet 102. element of the half-pallet 2 door hereinafter the same numerical reference increased by 100.

Thus, a plate 120, a frame 130, soles 131, 132 and 133, a floor 150 with its lower face 151 and a slot 152, a long slide 161, a short slide 162, a synchronization arm 163, an axis are defined. 164, an unlocking pedal 162.2 and an assembly rod 162.4, a housing 171.

In operation, during the assembly of the pallet 1, the half-pallets 2 and 102 pass automatically from the disassembly configuration, illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5, to the assembly configuration, illustrated in FIGS. 2, 4, 6 and 8.

The locking cams 61.2 and equivalent, respectively belonging to the half-pallets 2 and 102, respectively drive the long slides 61 and 161 in translation in the housings 71 and 171 and to the complementary half-pallet 102 or 2, that is to say in the direction of the proximal edge of the respective half-pallet 2 or 102. The synchronizing arms 63 and 163 respectively pivot about the axes 64 and 164 and drive the short slideways 62 and 162 in translation in the housings 71 and equivalent in the direction of the distal edge of the half-pallet 2 or 102 respectively. The locking cam 61.2 is designed to receive two assembly pins unrepresented of an automatic machine, which allows to drive simultaneously the two cams 61.2 and equivalent of the two half-pallets 2 and 102.

When the long runners 61 and 161 arrive at the end of the stroke, they respectively abut on the short runners 62 and 162. The lock gates 61.6 and equivalent, pushed by the second springs 61.7 equivalent, protrude respectively out of the long runners 61 and 161. The second spring 61.7 has the particular function of pushing the locking trigger 61.6 in its locking position.

The locking latches 61.6 and the like then bear against the latch plates 160 and the like, which has the effect of locking the long runners 61 and 161 respectively with the short runners 62 and 162. The locking latches 61.6 and the like form locking members adapted to hold the two pallet segments 2 and 102 in the assembled state by the connecting means. Thus, the long runners 61 and 61 and the short runners 62 and 162 remain in assembly configuration despite the return forces exerted by the first springs 61.3 and equivalent, which are then stretched, therefore under stress.

Alternatively to an automatic assembly, the pallet 1 can be assembled by manual operations. For this purpose, an operator pulls the connecting rod 62.4, resulting in the same movements of the connecting mechanisms as the automatic assembly described above.

The connecting rod 62.4 drives the short slide 62, which drives the synchronizing arm 63, then the long slide 61, until the automatic locking by the triggers 61 and equivalent. Then, the fourth spring 62.5 recalls the assembly rod 62.4 in the initial position, in which the connecting rod 62.4 is flush with the distal edge of the half-pallet 2.

In operation, during disassembly of the pallet 1, the half-pallets 2 and 102 pass from the assembly configuration, illustrated in FIGS. 2, 4, 6 and 8, to the disassembly configuration, illustrated in FIGS. 5.

For this purpose, an operator presses the actuating surface at the foot 62.21, which depresses the tongue 62.22 of the release pedal 62.2 against the third spring 62.3. The tongue 62.22 unlocks the locking trigger 61.6, releasing it from its support against the locking plate 160. The locking member formed by the latch trigger 61 is thus arranged to allow its unlocking by means of the latch. 'operator.

At its turn, the lock trigger 61 .6 unlocks the long slide 61. The first spring 61 .3, previously stretched and under stress, recalls the long slide 61 in the disassembly configuration, illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5.

Simultaneously with the translation of the long runners 61 and 161 into the housings 71 and 171, the synchronization arms pivot respectively on axes 64 and 64 by bringing the short slideways 62 and 162 into translation in the housings 72 and the like. The third spring 62.3 recalls the unlocking pedal 62.2 in position flush with the distal edge of the half-pallet 2, after stopping the support by the operator.

Similarly, the operator presses on the unlocking pedal 1 62.2 to activate the mechanism of the half pallet 102. The half-pallet 102 is then detached from the half-pallet 2 and the pallet 1 is in the disassembled state.

Figures 9 to 17 illustrate a pallet 201 according to a second embodiment of the invention and comprising half-pallets 202 and 302 according to this second embodiment of the invention. Insofar as the pallet 201 and the half-vanes 202 and 302 are similar to the pallet 1 and the half-pallets 2 and 102, the description of the pallet 1 and the half-pallets 2 and 102 given above in relation to with Figures 1 to 8 can be transposed to the pallet 201 and half-pallets 202 and 302, with the notable exception of the differences set out below.

An element of the pallet 201 which is identical or corresponding, in structure or function, to an element of the pallet 1 bears the same numerical reference increased by 200. Thus, a plate 220, a chassis 230, a floor 250, a long slide 261 and a short slide 262, two housings 271 and 272, and a synchronizing arm 263 pivoting about an axis 264.

As shown in FIGS. 9, 1 0, 1 1 and 1 2, the pallet 201 differs from the pallet 1, since the axis 264 is formed by a circular ring of large diameter, for example about 200 mm, while the axis 64 is formed by a disc of small diameter, for example about 20 mm. The axis 264 has a relatively high mechanical strength, and therefore a relatively long service life.

As shown in FIG. 63, the synchronization arm 263 has about a 60 ° angle between the disassembly configuration and the assembly configuration of the pallet 201.

In addition, the pallet 201 and the pallet 1 differ in their mechanism of the season. In particular, the linkage mechanism of the pallet 201 for binding the half-pallets 202 and 302 comprises two locking devices, one of which bears the reference 280 in FIG. 11 and which differs from the locking trigger. 61 .6 and lock plate 160. The locking device not shown in the figures is similar and symmetrical to the locking device 280.

As shown in FIGS. 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17, the locking device 280 comprises two locking cams 281 .1 and 281 .2, two pivots 282.1 and 282.2 and two springs 283.1 and 283.2, symbolized in FIG. 16. .

In addition, the housing 271, generally rectangular section, has two cavities 271 .5 and 271.6, of rectangular shape and disposed on each side of the housing 271.

The locking cams 281 .1 and 281 .2 are pivotally mounted respectively about the pivots 282.1 and 282.2, against the springs 283.1 and 283.2. Each locking cam 281 .1 or 281.2 has a series of several notches 284.1 or 284.2.

The notches 284.1 and 284.2 have the function of hanging unrepresented hooking surfaces. In the example of the figures, the attachment surfaces are formed by right-angled edges and located at the intersection between the housing 271 and a cavity 271 .5 or 271 .6. When the notches 284.1 and 284.2 hook the gripping surfaces, the half-pallet 202 is locked on the half-pallet 302.

Locking cams 281 .1 and 281 .2 pivot between a locking position (FIGS. 15 and 16), in which the half-pallet 202 is locked on the half-pallet 302, and a release position (FIGS. 13 and 17). ), in which the half-pallet 202 and the half-pallet 302 can be disassembled.

Each spring 283.1 or 283.2 is a helical spring operating in compression so as to exert on a respective locking cam 281 .1 or 281.2 an elastic restoring force in the locking position.

The linkage mechanism of the pallet 201 further comprises a tongue 286 whose function is to release the locking device 280, substantially like the tongue 62.22 for the pallet 1.

Figures 15 and 16 illustrate the tongue 286 disposed near the locking cams 281 .1 and 281.2 then in the locking position. The tongue 286 can be actuated automatically or by an operator, by pressing on its end 286.1 illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 15.

Figure 17 illustrates the tongue 286 simultaneously pressing against the locking cams 281 .1 and 281.2 then in the release position. For Maneuvering the locking cams 281 .1 and 281 .2, the tongue 286 presses against the factories 287. 1 and 287.2 presented respectively by the locking cams 281.1 and 281.2 opposite the notches 284.1 and 284.2.

The tab 286 has a triangular-shaped unlocking end 286.2 so as to simultaneously press the actuating surfaces 287.1 and 287.2. The actuating surfaces 287.1 and 287.2 move apart, allowing passage of the unlocking end 286.2. A stop 288 has the function of stopping the movement of the tongue 286. The stop 288 defines a triangular housing complementary to the unlocking end 286.2.

When the tongue 286 reaches the stop 288, the notches 284.1 and 284.2 do not hold the respective hooking surfaces, which allows to release or to separate the half-pallet 202 of the half-pallet 302.

The series of several notches 284.1 or 284.2 make it possible to tolerate a clearance in the connecting mechanism between the half-pallets 202 and 302. Thus, when a play of about 5 mm to 10 mm appears between the half-pallets 202 and 302, for example when a gravel is introduced between them, one of the first notches 284.1 or 284.2 hooks the respective gripping surface. In the absence of play in the link mechanism, it is rather one of the last notches 284.1 or 284.2 which hooks the respective hooking surface.

Figures 18 and 19 illustrate a pallet 401 according to a third embodiment of the invention and comprising half-pallets 402 and 502 according to this third embodiment of the invention. Insofar as the pallet 401 and the half-pallets 402 and 502 are similar to the pallet 1 and to the half-pallets 2 and 102, the description of the pallet 1 and the half-pallets 2 and 102 given above in relation to with Figures 1 to 8 can be transposed to the pallet 401 and the half-pallets 402 and 502, with the notable exception of the differences set out below.

Each half-pallet 402 or 502 differs from the semi-pallet 2 or 102 because it comprises only one slide 461 and 561. The slides 461 and 561 are similar, therefore of the same length, and each of them slides in a respective housing 471 and 472.

In addition, the half-pallets 402 and 502 differ from the half-pallets 2 and 102, since a half-pallet 402 or 502 comprises two bolts 481 and 482 or 581 and 582 which fulfill the function of locking members. Each slide 461 or 561 has two notches 461 .1 and 461 .2 or 561 .1 and 561 .2 adapted to cooperate with a respective bolt 481, 482, 581 or 582 so as to maintain the half-pallets 402 and 502 to state assembled by the connecting means, so in the so-called locked position.

Each bolt 481, 482, 581 or 582 can move against a respective helical spring 481, 491, 581 or 591. Each helical spring 481, 491, 581 or 591 forms an elastic return member of a respective bolt 481, 482, 581 or 582 in the locked position in a respective notch 461 .1, 461 .2, 561 .1 or 561 .2 .

The notches 461.1 and 461.2 are arranged on each side of the slide 461. The bolts 481, 482, 581 and 582 and the notches 461 .1, 461 .2, 561 .1 and 561.2 are arranged so as to allow the locking of the half-pallets 402 and 502 only when each bolt 481, 482, 581 or 582 penetrates, simultaneously with the others, into its notch 461 .1, 461 .2, 561 .1 or 561 .2.

Conversely, the unlocking half pallets 402 and 502 can be achieved only by simultaneous action on the bolts 481, 482, 581 and 582, by means of a controller 495 or 595 and automatically or manually. The pallet 401 thus makes it possible to prevent any inadvertent unlocking by an unexpected maneuver.

According to other embodiments of the invention not shown, taken alone or in any technically permissible combination:

The half-pallets are dissimilar and form in particular two rectangles whose long or wide sides are of different dimensions.

A continuous rib or portions of ribs may form a border around the periphery of the pallet, with the exception of the edges of the half-pallets where the junction is provided, which increases the stability of the products laid on the palette.

The two segments of pallets have different dimensions.

The mechanics of the season may have a different structure and operation. A pallet according to the invention comprises three or four segments of pallets, instead of two.

Claims

Pallet segment (2, 102; 202, 302; 402, 502) for storing and transporting objects, comprising a frame (30, 130; 230) and a tray (20, 120; 220) for storing the objects, the plate (20, 120; 220) being fixed to the frame (30, 130; 230),

the pallet segment (2, 1 02; 202, 302; 402, 502) being characterized by incorporating connecting means which are adapted to removably assemble the pallet segment (2, 102; 202, 302); 402, 502) to at least one complementary pallet segment (102, 2; 302, 202; 502, 402) so as to juxtapose the platens (20, 120; 220) of the pallet segments (2, 102; 302, 402, 502).

A pallet segment (2, 102, 202, 302) according to claim 1, wherein the means of the invention are integrated with the frame (30, 130; 230).

Pallet segment (2, 102, 202, 302) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (30, 130; 230) comprises at least two flanges (31, 2, 33, 131, 132, 133) designed for resting on a flat floor and a floor (50, 150; 250) which is adapted to support the deck (20, 120; 220), the pads (31, 2, 33, 1, 31, 1, 32, 133) being fixed relative to the floor (50, 150, 250).

Pallet segment (2, 102, 202, 302; 402, 502) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting means comprise at least one sliding member (61, 161, 62, 162; 261, 262; 461). 561) and at least one housing (71,171,72; 271,272; 471,472) adapted to receive the slide member (61,161,62,162; 261,262; 461,561).

Pallet segment (2, 102, 202, 302) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the means are linkage comprises two sliding members (61, 161, 62, 162; 261, 262) and a synchronizing member (63; 263), the synchronizing member (63; 263) being pivotally mounted and hinged to each sliding member (61; 161, 62, 162; 261, 262) such that the sliding of a sliding member (61, 161; 261) causes the sliding member (62, 162; 262) to slide.

The pallet segment (2, 102, 202, 302) according to the claim, wherein a sliding member (61, 161;

261) is longer than the other sliding member (62, 162;

262), and wherein the synchronizing member (63; 263) is a generally straight arm.

Pallet segment (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the connecting means further comprises at least one locking member (61.6, 160; 281.1, 281.2; 481, 482, 581, 582) adapted to hold at least two paddle segments (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) in the assembled state by the connecting means, the locking member (61.6, 160 281.1, 281.2, 481, 482, 581, 582) being arranged to allow its unlocking by an operator or by an automatic mechanism.

A pallet segment (2, 102, 202, 302) according to claim 7, wherein the connecting means comprises two sliding members (61, 62, 161, 162, 261, 262), a respective locking member (61.6 281.1, 281.2) being attached to one of the sliding members (61, 62, 161, 162, 261, 262) so as to cooperate with an abutment (160) attached to the complementary pallet segment (102, 2; 202).

The paddle segment (202, 302) according to one of claims 7 to 8, wherein the or each locking member (281.1,

281.2) has a plurality of notches (284.1, 284.2) adjacent to maintain at least two paddle segments (202, 302) in the assembled state by the connecting means, including in the presence of a clearance between the trays pallet segments (202, 302) and / or between the connecting means, for example a clearance of between 1 mm and 10 mm.

The pallet segment (202, 302) according to claim 9, wherein the or each locking member (281.1, 281.2) is formed of a pivotally mounted locking cam, the notches (284.1, 284.2) being disposed on a curved surface of a respective locking cam.

11. Pallet segment (202, 302) according to one of claims 7 to 10, further comprising at least one resilient return member (283.1, 283.2) adapted to bias a respective locking member (281.1, 281.2) in position locking member, the elastic return member (283.1, 283.2) being preferably a helical spring working in compression.

The pallet segment (402; 502) of claim 4, wherein the connecting means further comprises two locking members (481,482; 581,582) adapted to hold two pallet segments (402; the state assembled by the connecting means, the locking members (481, 482; 581, 582) being formed by bolts arranged to penetrate simultaneously into a respective notch (561.1, 461.2; 461.1, 561.2), each locking member (481, 482, 581, 582) being movable under the effect of an elastic return member (481, 491, 581, 591) in the locking position.

Pallet segment (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the frame (30, 130; 230) and the plate (20, 120; 220) are made of synthetic plastic material, preferably polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP).

Pallet (1; 201; 401) for storing and transporting objects, characterized in that it comprises at least two pallet segments (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) according to the invention. one of the preceding claims, wherein the pallet segments (2, 102; 202, 302; 402, 502) are removably assembled by the connecting means so as to juxtapose the platens (20, 1, 20; pallet (2, 102; 202, 302; 402, 502).

The pallet (1; 201; 401) according to claim 14, wherein two pallet segments (2,102; 202,302; 402,502) have plateaus (20,120; 220) having the same surface area. individual, the j uxtaposition of the trays (20, 120, 220) of two pallet segments (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) defining a double area of the individual area.

The pallet (1; 201; 401) according to claim 15, wherein each tray (20,120; 220) has a generally rectangle shape, the rectangles having at least two sides of equal length (1,2), the connecting means being arranged to assemble the two pallet segments (2, 102, 202, 302, 402, 502) on said sides of the same length.