CH720057A2 - VEHICLE AND GOODS TRANSPORT SYSTEM FOR CABLE GUIDED TRANSPORT INSTALLATION. - Google Patents

Abstract

A cable-guided transportation vehicle (26) includes a conveyor system (17) configured to move an object into or out of the vehicle (26), the conveyor system (17) forming at least part of a floor of the vehicle. The invention also relates to a system for transporting at least one object for a cable-guided transport installation, the system comprising at least one cable-guided transport vehicle (26) comprising a said conveying system (17) and at least one least one drive means configured to set in motion the conveying system (17). The invention aims to reduce the loading and unloading time of material, thus avoiding delays in cable-guided transport vehicles (26).

Description

Technical area

[0001] The invention relates to the transport of an object, goods or equipment by a cable-guided transport installation.

[0002] It relates more precisely to a transport vehicle guided by cable comprising a conveyor system configured to move an object inside or outside the vehicle and a system for transporting at least one object for an installation of cable-guided transport.

Prior art

[0003] In the coming years, there is a very good chance that cable-guided transport installations, such as ski lifts, cable cars, gondolas, funitels and Double MonoCâble, inclined elevators or even funiculars will be increasingly used in urban environments.

[0004] Indeed, they are one of the best solutions to deal with the numerous problems which oppose the development of large cities such as the decongestion of centers, the fluidification and flexibility of public transport and their independence from traffic. , the lack of space for the construction of new roads, the lack of parking space or even the ecological transition.

[0005] Unlike Europe, many regions such as Asia (Singapore, Hong Kong, Kish) and South America (Mexico, La Paz, Medellin, Cali) have already started to rely on this solution. Indeed, being extremely modular, these installations can perfectly adapt to all kinds of terrain features and topologies while ensuring different types of transport.

[0006] Beyond passenger transport, cable-guided transport installations can also be used for the transport of goods or equipment.

[0007] In a dense environment such as an urban area, this would make it possible to limit the number of delivery vehicles on the road network of a city, for example by creating a large "drop zone" in its periphery in which the goods could be loaded into a cable-guided transport facility and transported within or to the center of the urban area. The goods would transit towards the center over a period of around ten minutes, and would be deposited in a “collect zone” where supermarkets, craftsmen and individuals would come to collect their deliveries via light or even electric vehicles.

[0008] Travel times would be reduced, road traffic would be reduced and the ecological impact of transport would be significantly reduced.

[0009] The transport of equipment or goods by a cable-guided transport installation is already known. Loading material into a vehicle such as a cable car or gondola cabin is generally done manually, using tools or for example robots equipped with pallet forks.

[0010] Loading requires personnel and requires physical effort as well as a considerable pace to maintain. Current state-of-the-art solutions cause loss of time as well as slowdowns and delays in the transport of people on these same installations.

[0011] In certain cases, the transport of equipment interferes with the comfort of passengers.

[0012] Furthermore, the manual loading of goods into a vehicle such as a cabin lacks precision and leads to damage to the latter and accelerates its aging.

[0013] As a result of this, certain vehicles must be serviced more regularly and repaired. This drastically increases the operating costs of such installations. In addition, the replacement of a vehicle from an installation can be long and impact the smooth functioning of an installation, or even a drop in its performance if the vehicle to be replaced can no longer be used until it is ready. has not been serviced or replaced.

[0014] In other situations, the transport of material by a cable-guided transport installation is done using a specific transport vehicle, for example intended only for the transport of goods. The transport vehicle must therefore be loaded then placed on the cable system and then removed from the cable to be unloaded. This requires personnel and causes wasted time as well as slowdowns and delays in the transport of people to these same facilities.

[0015] To date, no solution allows rapid, fluid transportation of equipment that can be combined with the transportation of people without hindering the comfort of passengers or extending their journey time.

[0016] There is therefore a need to provide a solution allowing the transport of material by a cable-guided transport installation in a rapid, fluid manner, requiring little personnel and capable of being carried out on an installation also intended for the transport of people without passenger comfort or travel time is impacted by the transport of goods.

[0017] The aim of the present invention is to develop a cable-guided transport vehicle comprising a conveyor system configured to move an object inside or outside the vehicle, the conveyor system forming at least a part of a floor of the vehicle. The invention also aims to develop a system for transporting at least one object for a transport installation comprising at least one cable-guided transport vehicle comprising a conveyor system and at least one configured drive means to set the conveyor system in motion.

Summary of the invention

[0018] The present invention makes it possible to remedy the problems and disadvantages mentioned above and relates to a cable-guided transport vehicle according to claim 1 and a system for transporting at least one object for a cable-guided transport installation according to claim 1. 8.

[0019] The advantages of the present invention lie in particular in the fact that: – Loading and unloading times are reduced and homogenized – Travel times for passengers are not extended in the event of transport of equipment carried out in parallel with the transport of people. – The journey of passengers is not delayed due to the transport of equipment carried out before the transport of people. – Passenger comfort is not affected by poor handling of equipment in stations. – The effort made by operating personnel is reduced – The risk of vehicle damage is limited. – The risk of problems with on-board vehicle systems is minimized as much as possible thanks to the simplification of the thrust of the elements. – The maintenance of systems on board vehicles or cabins is minimal compared to the work they provide, due to their simplicity. – Material transport can be automated. – When the vehicle does not include goods, it can be used for the transport of people, the conveyor system forming the floor of the vehicle on which the occupants can stand.

Other advantageous characteristics of the invention are indicated in the dependent claims.

Brief description of the figures

[0021] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will appear more clearly on reading the detailed description and illustrated by the appended drawings in which: Figure 1 represents a profile view of an example of a means of training also called in the context of the present invention “pick-up”; Figure 2 illustrates a top view of the drive means represented by Figure 1; Figure 3 contains a profile view of an example of a conveyor system that can be present on board a vehicle or a cabin; Figure 4 shows a top view of the conveying system shown in Figure 3; Figure 5 illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the system according to the invention; and Figure 6 illustrates a vehicle comprising a conveyor system forming at least part of the floor or arranged on the floor of the vehicle 26.

Detailed description of the invention

Numerical reference signs present in the figures

[0022] 1. Electric lifting cylinder 2. Lifting guide 3. A contact element, for example a tire wheel, for driving the cabin conveyor 4. Wheel axle - pulley 5. Wheel drive pulley tire 6. Drive pulley 7. Drive belt 8. Drive motor 9. “Loading stop” limit switch 10. Actuating rod for opening the conveyor brake 11. Metal frame on cylinder 12. Frame of the belt (integrated into the cabin floor) 13. Stop flap “Loading to stop” 14. Mechanical actuator of the limit switch “Loading to stop” 15. Brakes of the vehicle conveyor 16. Actuation press for opening of the cabin conveyor brake 17. Vehicle or cabin conveying system such as a clinker conveyor with anti-slip coating 18. Conveying element “drop-off area” 19. Conveying element “waiting area” 20. Conveyor element “loading/unloading” 21. Placement zone 22. Waiting zone 3 23. Waiting zone 2 24. Waiting zone 1 25. Drive means or mechanism (also called “Pick-up”) in the present invention) of the conveyor system 17 cabin, positioned here under the passage of the cabins, for example in a departure or arrival station of the cable-guided transport installation 26. Vehicle equipped with a conveyor system 17 according to figures 3 and 4 27. Direction of movement of the cabins in the station 28. Way of passage of the cabins

[0023] Figure 6 illustrates a transport vehicle 26 guided by cable according to the invention.

The vehicle comprises a conveying system or element 17.

The conveyor system 17 makes it possible to bring an object or merchandise inside the vehicle 26 or to remove said object or merchandise from the vehicle 26.

The conveyor system 17 can bring the object in or out by moving at least one movable element, forming part or all of the conveyor system on which the object would be placed in part or in whole or the goods in order to move the object or the goods, for example by translation, from the outside to the inside of the vehicle 26 or vice versa.

[0027] An object or goods can be placed at the entrance of the vehicle, at least partly in contact with or partly on the conveyor system 17 in order to be moved and enter the vehicle by the movement of the conveyor system. conveying 17 or at least one movable element of the conveying system 17 during actuation of the conveying system 17.

The conveyor system 17 can be arranged on the floor of the vehicle 26 or form part or all of the floor of the vehicle 26 on which the goods are placed and on which passengers can stand.

The floor of the vehicle can form a lower wall of the vehicle and be intended to support one or more people or an object inside the vehicle 26.

[0030] Preferably, the conveyor system 17 has a width equal to or less than the width of the open door of the vehicle, thus making it possible to bring in or leave the goods without the latter colliding with the edges of the door of the vehicle. vehicle.

The conveyor system 17 can be of a length equal to or less than the depth of the vehicle 26 between the door and the opposite wall of the vehicle 26.

[0032] In one embodiment, the conveying system is actuated by a drive means 25 arranged on or in the vehicle 26 or included in the conveying system 17.

The drive means can be arranged on the conveying system 17 or form part of the conveying system 17.

[0034] The drive mechanism may comprise a motor, for example an electric or thermal motor, allowing the actuation of the conveying system 17 in order to bring goods into or out of the vehicle.

Alternatively, the conveying system 17 is passive. The latter is not powered or actuated by a drive mechanism arranged on or in the vehicle 26.

The training means 25 can be arranged in an arrival and/or departure station of the cable-guided transport or ski lift installation. The drive mechanism can thus activate the conveyor system 17 when the vehicle is at the departure station, at the intermediate station or at the arrival station so that goods can be loaded or unloaded from a vehicle 26 comprising the conveyor system. conveyor 17. Thus a single drive mechanism 25 can operate the conveyor system 17 of several vehicles 26 and it is not necessary to have several drive mechanisms arranged on each vehicle of the cable-guided transport installation such as a ski lift.

The drive means 25 may comprise at least one contact element 3 configured to come into contact with a contact zone arranged on the conveying system 17 making it possible to set the conveying system 17 in motion.

The conveyor system 17 can for example include a mobile conveyor belt making it possible to bring the goods into or out of the vehicle 26.

The conveying system 17 may include a brake system 15 which prevents any movement of the conveying system until it is actuated. The brake system can be a passive brake in the locking position at rest.

[0040] In one embodiment, the conveyor system 17 may comprise a belt conveyor, or a treadmill 17, or a belt or lap conveyor 17 as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.

The conveying system 17 may comprise a frame 12, for example in two parts forming the lateral ends of the conveying system 17.

[0042] Between these two ends 12 are fixed at their front and rear ends two rollers movable on their axes or an axis on which a roller can be mounted or several bearings movable on their axes can be arranged between the two lateral ends formed by the frame 12.

One or more smooth plates can be arranged between the lateral ends formed by the frame 12 of the conveying system 17.

[0044] The mobile element of the conveyor system 17 can come to rest or rest on the smooth plate(s), the mobile element being for example a belt of a belt conveyor or a path of rollers movable on their axes such as roller conveyors on which the belt conveyor belt rests, for example.

The movable element can form a ring the length of the circumference between the two rollers of the conveying system 17.

The movable element, for example the carpet, can be movable in two directions, from the front to the rear of the frame 12 or the vehicle 26 or vice versa.

The movable element can move in a circular manner around the rollers arranged on the frame, friction and losses being minimized by its design.

[0048] In one embodiment, the movable element comprises a plurality of blades, for example metallic, mounted at their ends on two strips, for example made of flexible rubber. The two ends of these rubber bands are connected together to form a ring which is the length of the perimeter of the conveying system 17. These blades are of the length of the width equal to or less than the width between the two lateral ends of the frames 12 and of a width equivalent to that necessary to be able to rotate around the mounted elements, for example the movable rollers at the ends of the frame 12.

[0049] The bands comprising the blades are positioned between the two frames 12 of the conveying system 17. They rest on rollers fixed between the two lateral ends of the frames 12 of the conveying system 17, over its entire length or on fixed bearings on lateral ends each frame 12 over their entire length.

The strips comprising the blades form a carpet which can move circularly on the frame 12 around the rollers, friction and losses being minimized by its design.

[0051] The blades can be connected together by hinges instead of being fixed on flexible rubber bands. Fastening elements can be arranged to connect the lateral ends of the frame 12 to fix them together improving the solidity of the conveying system 17.

[0052] The contact zone can be for example a zone on the belt, or on the belt of a belt conveyor or on one or more blades of a lap conveyor or on a rotation tube making it possible to set in motion the carpet.

The conveyor system 17 can be of width equal to the open door space of the vehicle 26.

The conveying system 17 may include an anti-slip covering fixed to its frame 12.

[0055] The conveyor system 17 may include a limit mechanism 13 configured to stop the conveyor system 17 when the latter is set in motion in order to prevent the object or loaded merchandise from hitting a wall of the conveyor. vehicle 26. The conveyor system 17 can be stopped when the object hits the limit switch 13.

The limit switch 13 may include a stop flap 13, comprising a mechanical part, and its mechanical actuator 14 which will correlate with its electrical limit switch 9 present on the means or mechanism for driving the belt 25.

The conveying system 17 may also include a brake system 15 which prevents any movement of the conveying system until it is actuated; it may be a brake normally closed in its rest position. thus preventing any movement of the belt 17.

[0058] In one embodiment, the brake system 15 can come into direct contact with a surface of the conveying system 17 in order to keep it in the locked position.

The brake system 15 may include at least one actuator 16.

The actuator 16 can be configured to release the brake and thus the conveying system 17 so that the latter can start moving, for example to load or unload goods or an object from the vehicle 26.

[0061] At least one actuator 16 can be pushed upwards by at least one actuation rod 10 present on the “pick-up” drive means 25 to open it.

The brake system 15 may include two or more actuators 16.

[0063] The actuator 16 can be pushed upwards by one or more actuating rods 10 arranged on the drive means 25 to open it and allow the conveying system 17 so that the latter can begin to move.

The number of actuator rods 10 can be equal to the number of actuators 16.

The brake system 15 can be composed of a contact plate, similar to a brake pad, which can be of the length and width of the conveying means 17 of the vehicle 26.

[0066] When it is at rest, therefore for example when it is not actuated by the actuating rods 10 mounted on the frame 11 of the drive means 25, the brake system 15 of the conveying means 17 of the vehicle 26 is pressed against the conveying means 17 with a force equivalent to that necessary to prevent it from moving.

The contact plate of the brake 15 can be secured to an axis connecting the two rods of the actuators 16, passing through the axis of a spring cylinder.

This end of the cylinder is free to move, while its other end is fixed on the frame 12 of the conveying means 17.

[0069] When the actuators 16 are pushed upwards, this spring cylinder is compressed and the brake contact plate is therefore pushed downwards.

[0070] When the pressure on these actuators is released, the force of the cylinder spring deploys it again to return to its initial position. The brake 15 is therefore pressed again on the conveying means 17.

[0071] When the actuating rods 10 mounted on the frame 11 of the drive means 25 actuate the actuators 16 of the brake 15 by pushing them upwards, the contact plate of the brake 15 is therefore pushed downwards, freeing the conveying means 17 of the cabin 26 from its grip.

The conveyor system 17 arranged in the vehicle 26 may comprise or consist of a clinker conveyor 17.

[0073] The conveyor system 17 may also include or consist of: – A belt conveyor with or without profile – A tubular conveyor – A trident type conveyor – A chain conveyor – A uni/multidirectional roller conveyor – A conveyor mesh – A modular mesh conveyor

[0074] The brake system 15 may comprise or consist of: – A brake acting on the return axis or axes of the conveying system 17, for example a belt. – A system for blocking the movement of the belt via a blocking mechanism.

[0075] The stop flap 13 of the vehicle can be replaced or supplemented by a system for calculating the length of a first movement of the conveying system 17 when the latter has moved goods from the outside or from the entrance of the vehicle 26 inside the vehicle 26 for loading the goods and vice versa when unloading the goods from said vehicle 26.

[0076] When the conveyor system 17 comprises a belt conveyor, for example a treadmill, or a clinker conveyor, the calculation system can determine a first length of belt which has been moved from front to rear of the vehicle when loading, and vice versa when unloading.

[0077] This first movement distance may correspond to the distance necessary to bring in or load an object or goods to be transported inside the vehicle 26.

[0078] In an embodiment in which the drive means 25 is external to the vehicle 26, the drive means can be arranged in a station of the cable-guided transport installation.

[0079] A training means 25 can be arranged in the departure station or the downstream station and a second training means 25 can be arranged in the arrival station or the upstream station of the transport installation guided by cable.

[0080] A training means 25 can be arranged in an intermediate station.

[0081] Thus, the conveyor system 17 of a vehicle 26 can be operated in each station and goods can be loaded and unloaded from the vehicle 26 thereby allowing the transport of these goods by the cable-guided transport installation .

The training means 25 can be arranged or fixed to the ground of the station, under the passage 28 of the vehicles 26.

[0083] Alternatively, the means 25 can be arranged in the passage of vehicles, laterally in order to face one side of the vehicle 26 or above the passage 28 in order to face the roof of the vehicles 26.

[0084] The drive means 25 may comprise a frame 11, for example metallic, fixed or arranged on a lifting system of the drive means 25 configured to move, for example vertically, the drive means 25 of a low or inactive position to a high or active position.

[0085] The lifting system may comprise a jack 1 or a plurality of jacks 1, for example four jacks 1, the jack(s) 1 being placed or fixed to the ground and being able to move from a low or rest position in which the cylinder is contracted to an up or active position in which the cylinder is extended.

[0086] The cylinders 1 can be electric, hydraulic, pneumatic cylinders or any other known cylinder making it possible to move from a low position in which the cylinder is contracted to a high position in which the cylinder is extended.

[0087] When the cylinders 1 are in the high position or in the active position, the drive means 25 is moved upwards, towards the vehicle 26 passing above the drive means 25, thus making it possible to bring into contact the drive means 25 to the conveyor system 17 to set it in motion and allow the loading or unloading of an object or goods from the vehicle 26.

[0088] The drive means 25 may comprise one or a plurality of guides 2 configured to guide the movement of the jack(s) 1. In one embodiment, the guide(s) 2 comprise tubes, for example metallic, guaranteeing the correct operation of the movement and the correct positioning of the drive means 25.

The drive means 25 may comprise an axis 4, two axes 4 or a plurality of axes 4 arranged on the frame 11.

[0090] Each axis 4 may comprise at least one contact element 3 intended to come into contact with at least one contact zone arranged on the conveying system 17.

[0091] The contact element 3 can be connected to a motor 8. When the drive means 25 is in the high or active position, the contact element 3 comes into physical contact with the conveying system 17 in order to 'actuate.

The drive means 25 can be configured to come into contact and actuate the conveying system 17 arranged on the vehicle 26.

[0093] The drive means 25 may further comprise a system of pulleys 5, 6 mechanically connected to the motor and a system of belts 7 connecting the pulley system 5, 6 to the contact element 3, in order to transmit to the contact element 3 the movement, for example rotary or the energy generated by the motor 8 to the contact element 3 which will transmit the movement, for example rotary or the energy generated to the conveying system 17.

[0094] The contact element 3 may for example comprise a tire wheel 3 or a plurality of tire wheels 3 mounted in rotation on the axle(s) 4 which, once the drive means 25 engaged in the high position under a vehicle 26 equipped with a conveying system 17 comes into contact with the conveying system 17 to activate it as soon as the contact element 3 is put into motion.

[0095] The conveying system 17 can be set in motion by the force of the motor 8, for example an electric or thermal motor, driving a driving pulley 6 secured to the motor 8 and thus via the belt(s) 7, the pulleys 5 then the axes 4 connected to the pulleys 5 then the tire wheels 3 then the conveying system 17.

The pulleys 5 can be integral with the axes 4, so when a pulley 5 is set in motion by a belt 7, the axis is also set in motion then the tire wheel 3 also secured to the axis 4.

[0097] The drive means 25 may comprise a limit switch 9 or a limit switch 9, for example an electric limit switch 9, arranged on the frame 11. When the drive means 25 is in the high position or active, the limit switch 9 is arranged so as to position itself opposite the mechanical actuator 14 arranged on the vehicle 26 or on the conveying system 17.

[0098] The actuator 14 can be secured in the opposite manner to the flap 13.

[0099] When the stop flap 13 is actuated towards the rear, pushed by the arrival, for example of an object at the bottom of the cabin, the actuator 14 moves towards the front so as to press or activate the electric limit switch 9.

[0100] The drive means 25 being in the high position at this moment, the limit switch is positioned opposite the actuator 14. Thus, it also finds itself actuated by the pressure of the actuator 14 on its head which can send an electrical signal to attest the position of the object at the bottom of the cabin and therefore stop the movement of the conveying system 17.

[0101] The motor 8 as well as the limit switch 9 can be mounted or arranged on the frame 11 and thus be integral with the frame 11 when it is moved to the high position. As a result, the pipes as well as the cables supplying them must respond to the forces and movements imposed on them during operation.

[0102] The drive means 25 may further comprise one or more actuation rods 10, for example four actuation rods 10 arranged on the frame 11 and configured to exert a force on the opening actuators 16 of the system brake 15 of the conveying system 17 in order to release the conveying system 17 and allow it to move in order to load or unload goods from the vehicle 26.

[0103] In an embodiment where the conveyor system comprises a clapboard belt 17, two drive means 25 fixed to the ground under the passage of vehicles 28, respectively at the upstream and downstream station of the ski lift installation can be arranged.

[0104] Each drive means 25 can comprise a metal frame 11 placed on 4 electric cylinders 1 which are considered in the rest position in the low position and is raised for the actuation of the drive means 25 or "pick-up". 25.

[0105] These electric cylinders 4 are aided by 4 guides 2 here in the form of a metal tube, guaranteeing the proper operation of the lifting and the correct position of the “pick-up” 25, both raised and lowered.

[0106] On this metal frame are mounted two axes 4 driven by a system of pulleys 5 and 6 and belts 7.

[0107] On these two axes are mounted four tires wheels 3 which, once the “pick-up” 25 engaged in the high position under a vehicle 26 equipped with a conveyor system 17 for example a clinker conveyor, will be pressed on the latter to drive it as soon as they start moving.

[0108] This movement is here produced by the effort of an electric motor (8) driving the drive pulley 6 and thus the entire series of belts 7, pulleys 5, axles 4 and tire wheels 3 .

[0109] The electric limit switch 9 is also fixed on the metal frame 11 and, once the “pick-up” 25 is activated in its raised position, it will be positioned opposite its mechanical actuator 14 fixed on the vehicle 26.

[0110] The electric motor 8 as well as the electric limit switch 9 are mounted on the metal frame 11 and are therefore integral with it when it is raised.

[0111] As a result, the pipes as well as the cables supplying them must respond to the forces and movements imposed on them during operation. Finally, we find on this metal frame 11 four actuating rods 10 intended to exert a force on the actuators 16 for opening the belt brake 15 to release the conveying system 17 from its grip.

[0112] The at least one contact element 3 may comprise: – At least one tire wheel – A finger conveyor – A magnetic drive – A magnetic coupling of two distinct parts – A toothed wheel on the drive means 25 by driving a second toothed wheel arranged on the conveying system 17 arranged on the vehicle 26 driving the conveying system 17 present on board. – A toothed wheel on the drive means 25 driving a rack system on the vehicle 26 or the conveying system 17 arranged on the vehicle 26 driving the conveying system 17 present on board. – An electric or hydraulic piston system extending to a length equal to the necessary travel of the conveying system 17 to load something to the bottom of the vehicle 26. Fixed in the station, this piston would horizontally push a stop integral with the transport system. conveying 17 of the vehicle 26 by causing it to move in one direction. To carry out the reverse maneuver, another piston would be placed in opposition to the first and would push the same stop in the other direction, causing the conveying system 17 to move in the opposite direction to the first operation for unloading.

[0113] The system of belts 7 and pulleys 5 and 6 of the drive means 25 can be replaced by a system of toothed wheels and chain or gear.

[0114] The motor 8 may comprise a hydraulic, electric, pneumatic, thermal or combustion motor.

[0115] The actuating rods 10 may comprise or be replaced by at least one cylinder, for example electric or hydraulic, fixed to the ground or to the frame 11 of the drive means 25 and capable of exerting a thrust on the actuators 16 in order to release the brake system 15 and to release the conveying system 17 to allow it to move in order to load or unload goods from the vehicle 26.

[0116] The lifting system may include: – Hydraulic cylinders – A pneumatic lifting system – A system of toothed wheels and/or racks

[0117] The invention also relates to a goods transport system for a cable-guided transport or ski lift installation, an example of which is shown in Figure 5.

[0118] The system may include a goods delivery system.

[0119] This conveying system may comprise a conveyor element or a set of conveyor elements arranged in a downstream station and/or an intermediate station and/or an upstream station of the ski lift or guided transport installation by cable.

[0120] The conveyor element or the set of conveyor elements are configured to move the goods or the object to be transported from a position in the downstream station and/or the upstream station to the vehicle 26 and to the transport system. conveyor 17 arranged in the vehicle and vice versa.

[0121] The routing system and the set of conveying elements can be modulated according to the needs and the appearance of the buildings in which the stations are arranged and the ski lift or cable-guided transport installations.

[0122] In one embodiment, the set of conveying elements comprise belt conveyors, for example belt conveyors, for example, without profile and provided with a non-slip surface.

[0123] The set of conveying elements may additionally, or alternatively, include: – Clapboard conveyors – Tubular conveyors – Trident type conveyors – Chain conveyors – Uni/multidirectional roller conveyors – Conveyors mesh – Modular mesh conveyors

[0124] In one embodiment, at least one of the stations of the ski lift or cable-guided transport installation may comprise at least: – A conveyor element called “drop-off zone” 18, for example of equal width to that of the conveying system 17 present in the vehicle 26 and for example of length equal to a “deposit zone” 21 subject to a certain margin to avoid any runaway of the system and collision of the things transported. – A conveyor element named “waiting zone” 19, for example of width equal to the conveyor element “deposit zone” 18 and for example of length corresponding to the different “waiting zone” 1 and 2 desired on this segment, at a certain margin for the same reasons mentioned above. – A conveyor element named “Loading/unloading zone” 20 for example of width equal to the aforementioned conveyor element and for example of length corresponding to the “waiting zone 1” 24 subject to a certain margin, for the same reasons mentioned above.

[0125] The different “drop-off zone” 21 and “waiting zone” 22, 23 and 24 can correspond to locations defined in the station by marking either on the ground at the edge of the conveyor elements or directly on the transport elements. conveying.

[0126] These locations are defined in terms of length, firstly by the acceptable length in the vehicles 26 but also and above all by the nature of the objects or goods transported by the installation.

[0127] The certification of material on these different zones is given by one or more infrared sensors (“IR”) present throughout the path of the conveying elements 18, 19 and 20. These sensors can be replaced by purposes of rod race or any other elements that can perform this task.

[0128] An infrared (IR) sensor can be placed along the path of the conveying elements, at the height of the end of a zone.

[0129] The infrared (IR) sensor can be directed transversely to this path.

[0130] On the other side of this path, its corresponding receiver can receive the light beam emitted by the IR sensor. This part is repeated for each different waiting or drop-off area.

[0131] When an object arrives at the height of this arrangement, either by the movement of the conveyor elements or by the manual action of the operating personnel, the light beam is interrupted, and therefore the IR sensor can send a signal to attest to the correct position of the pallet at this location.

[0132] After the object has passed, the light beam is again continuous from one element to another, as in the initial position.

[0133] Rod limit switches can also be used. The limit switch can be placed flush with the path of the conveying elements, the rod directed transversely to the path of the conveying elements.

[0134] When an object arrives at the height of this arrangement, either by setting the conveying elements in motion or by the manual action of the operating personnel or an operator, the wand is actuated by the thrust carried out by the movement of the object, and therefore the limit switch can send a signal to attest to the correct position of the pallet at this location. After the object has passed, the wand can automatically return to its initial position.

[0135] In a proposed embodiment, the objects or things or goods transported can be any goods, for example deposited and docked on EURO certified pallets, for the sake of calculating travel time and space.

[0136] In addition, the objects or goods to be transported may include: – Non-EURO certified pallets – Containers of all kinds containing material such as boxes and boxes. – Liquid containers such as barrels or vats – Gas cylinders – Rubbish bins and waste containers as well as compacted waste – Animal cages – Luggage – Explosive materials intended for avalanche safety or rock extraction – Sports and disability sports equipment – Emergency sleds

[0137] The system according to the present invention can also allow the transport of injured people who are unable to move and the transport of people with disabilities, for example practicing handiskiing.

[0138] All the technical elements described above can enter into an interaction process in one embodiment.

[0139] In one embodiment, the process of loading a vehicle using the cargo transport system for a cable-guided transport or ski lift installation may comprise the following steps.

[0140] Before starting the installation in loading mode, an operator can manually place the goods, for example placed on a pallet, on the different “depositing zones” 21 and “waiting zone” 22, 23 and 24.

[0141] Once these different zones are occupied by pallets, the operator can activate a loading mode in this station and the operator at the opposite station can activate an unloading mode. These actions can be carried out simultaneously with the operation of the ski lift installation.

[0142] Once these conditions are met, the equipment transport installation can be started. The next vehicle 26 equipped with a conveyor system 17 according to Figures 3 and 4 can stop in front of the “loading/unloading” conveyor element 20, for example above the “pick-up” drive system. 25.

[0143] This stop can be caused by an initiator having detected the vehicle at this location, giving the order to stop at the tire conveyor of the section of passage of the vehicles or cabins concerned, a process already well known in the technical field and allows for example the movement of the cabin or vehicle in the station, once the vehicle has been removed or disengaged from the cable of the transport installation

[0144] Prior to this stop, the ski lift installation can open the vehicle doors.

[0145] Once the correct position of the stopped vehicle has been confirmed, the “pick-up” drive means 25 can be engaged in the high position by the action of the electric cylinders of the lift 1 and therefore – The contact element can be pressed against the contact zone of the conveying system 17, for example the tire wheels 3 are pressed against the conveying system 17 of the vehicle 26. – The actuating rods 10 can press on the actuating presses 16 of the brake system 15 of the conveying system 17 and therefore activate its opening. – The electric limit switch 9 can be positioned opposite its mechanical actuator 14.

[0146] After certification of the correct position of the various elements, the electric motor 8 can be engaged and drive the driving pulley 6 and thus the entire series of belts 7, pulleys 5, axes 4 and tire wheel 3 in the direction of rotation corresponding to the direction of loading rotation of the vehicle conveying system 17, respectively from the door towards the bottom of the vehicle 26.

[0147] Once the proper functioning of the vehicle conveying system 17 in the direction of travel corresponding to the loading has been certified, the “loading/unloading” conveyor 20 can start in the same direction and at a speed equal to that of the conveyor system. conveying vehicle 17, therefore loading the goods in the waiting area 24 in the cabin.

[0148] The “loading/unloading” conveyor 20 can stop, for example when the pallet initially in the waiting zone 23 is detected entirely in the waiting zone 24, and moved by the action of the “zone d” conveyor. 'waiting' 19. The stopping of the 'loading unloading' conveyor can be caused by the certification of the 'IR' sensors present along the route.

[0149] The vehicle conveying system 17 can stop when the goods are detected at the bottom of the vehicle 26 by the stop flap. The bands comprising the blades, for example “loading at stop” 13, therefore mechanically actuating the electric limit switch 9 present. The stop flap can be an end stop.

[0150] This stop can be caused by stopping the drive motor 8. At this moment, the “pick-up” drive system 25 can return to the low position via the action of the lift cylinders 1.

[0151] Once the disengagement of the drive system 25 and therefore the closing of the brake system 15 of the conveying system 17 of the vehicle 26 has been certified, the equipment transport installation according to the invention can send a signal to the ski lift installation to announce vehicle 26 as free.

[0152] The mechanical lift installation can continue the travel of the vehicle 28 on the passageway of the cabins 28 according to the direction of movement of the cabins 27.

[0153] The operation can be repeated during the next passage of a vehicle equipped with a conveyor system 17.

[0154] In an embodiment where the drive means 25 is arranged directly on the vehicle 26 or on the conveyor system 17, once the correct vehicle position has been verified, the motor 8 can be engaged in order to activate the conveyor system 17.

[0155] Once the proper functioning of the vehicle conveying system 17 in the direction of travel corresponding to the loading has been certified, the “loading/unloading” conveyor 20 can start in the same direction and at a speed equal to that of the conveyor system. conveying vehicle 17, therefore loading the goods in the waiting area 24 in the cabin.

[0156] The “loading/unloading” conveyor 20 can stop, for example when the pallet initially in the waiting zone 23 is detected entirely in the waiting zone 24, and moved by the action of the “loading/unloading” conveyor. waiting“ 19. The stopping of the “loading unloading” conveyor can be caused by the certification of the “IR” sensors present along the route.

[0157] The vehicle conveying system 17 can stop when the goods are detected at the bottom of the vehicle 26 by the stop flap. The bands comprising the blades, for example “loading at stop” 13, therefore mechanically actuating the electric limit switch 9 present. The stop flap can be an end stop.

[0158] If the chosen embodiment only uses part of the cabins present on the installation for the transport of equipment, the cabins which are not equipped with a conveyor system 17 can also stop, so as to do not adjust the spacing between cabins on the ski lift installation.

[0159] Parallel to this loading process, the conveyors “deposit zone” 18, “waiting zone” 19 and “loading/unloading” 20 can move the goods present in the different deposit and waiting zones 21, 22 and 23 towards waiting area 24.

[0160] These conveyor elements can operate autonomously, that is to say they fill the waiting zones closest to the waiting zone 24 and stop automatically once these waiting zones 22, 23 and 24 occupied. Alternatively, these conveying elements can be manually operated by an operator.

[0161] The “deposit zone” belt 18 can stop once the deposit zone 21 is certified as empty by the corresponding “IR” sensor or by an operator.

[0162] It then remains immobile and may only re-enter the loading process once a commodity has been positioned in the “deposit zone” 21, an action attested by the “IR” sensor corresponding to this zone and by a receipt. via a pusher, for example an electric pusher, carried out by the operator.

[0163] At the opposite station known as “unloading”, a similar system can perform the opposite work.

[0164] The goods can be considered outside the vehicle 26 for example via a time delay launched by the automaton as soon as the stop flap 13 of the vehicle 26 is released, a time delay equal to the time necessary for the goods to be found entirely in the storage zone. waiting 24.

[0165] In the event that the operator at the loading station is unable to keep up with the pace of the installation, that is to say that he does not supply the deposit zone 21 in time with goods, the vehicle can leave empty, so as not to cause any disruption to the circulation of cabins on the ski lift installation.

[0166] In the event that the operator at the unloading station is unable to keep up with the pace of the installation, the mechanical lift installation can slow down the operating speed, allowing the loading installation to material to slow down its pace.

[0167] Thus the operator has more time to evacuate the goods from the deposit zone 18.

[0168] If the operator still cannot clear the goods in time, the installation may stop due to lack of space to remove the goods from the cabins 26.

[0169] The process of loading and unloading vehicles as well as the handling of goods in stations can be fully automated.

[0170] The installation can be designed and produced to operate in both directions in the same way: transport of equipment from the downstream station to upstream as well as from the upstream station to downstream or to intermediate stations.

[0171] The installation can also allow loading and unloading in an intermediate station.

[0172] The installation can also allow the transfer of things from one installation guided by cables to another, via conveying elements for example.

[0173] To enhance the system according to the invention or to make it possible to operate according to the needs of the ski lift installation, several technical elements can be considered such as: – A system for lifting the seats of the vehicle 26 as well as returning the seats to their initial position. – A “defrost” mode on the material transport installation, which would set in motion the conveying system of vehicle 17 according to the description above but without loading material. A line tour would be carried out to move all the vehicle conveying systems 17 before carrying out the transport of material, in order to prevent any disturbance due to icing of the various components or other external factors. – A pulsed hot air system which would be installed under the passage of the cabins and activated before the transport of material for a line tour, also to prevent any disturbance due to icing of the various components. – A vertical blocking system for vehicles when loading, to prevent the “pick-up” drive system 25 from lifting them when placed in the high position. A similar system can be imagined so that the play present on the vehicle lines does not disturb the proper functioning of the equipment transport installation.

[0174] The loading installation can be installed directly at the passage of the cabins 26 in the station along the path of the cabins 28, or in a so-called loading lane where the vehicles 26 intended to receive an object or goods would be diverted for example, by a switch.

[0175] As specified later, the path of the conveying elements 18, 19 and 20 in the upstream and/or downstream station can be modulated to perfectly match the needs and the appearance of the ski lift installation and the building. The conveying elements can be arranged so that the conveying elements form angle changes between them.

[0176] The system can also include an installation capable of storing the goods in shelves provided for this purpose, of sending the goods to another level of the building or even directly into a transport vehicle, or even into another lift installation. mechanical.

[0177] This material transport system can be envisaged with all vehicles equipped with conveyor system 17 or only part of the so-called “service” vehicles.

[0178] Note that all vehicles equipped with the conveyor system 17 can also be designed to be used for the transport of people in a completely normal manner when the transport of equipment is not in operation, the conveyor system 17 forming the floor or floor of the cabin on which passengers may be located.

[0179] The brake system 15 can in particular allow the conveying system 17 to remain stationary during the journey of the vehicle in order to improve the safety of the transport of people on the conveying system 17 but also to avoid the movement of the object or merchandise transported in the vehicle 26.

[0180] The conveyor elements present in the station 18, 19 and 20 can also be used, once stopped, as a waiting line or as any other floor surface when transporting people.

[0181] It will be understood that various modifications and/or improvements obvious to those skilled in the art can be made to the different embodiments of the invention described in the present description without departing from the scope of the invention defined by the appended claims.

[0182] The invention is obviously not limited to the examples illustrated in this application.

Claims (10)

1. Cable-guided transport vehicle (26) comprising a conveyor system (17) configured to move an object inside or outside the vehicle (26), the conveyor system (17) forming at least one part of a vehicle floor. 2. Vehicle (26) according to claim 1, characterized in that the conveying system (17) comprises a belt conveyor or a clinker conveyor. 3. Vehicle (26) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the conveying system (17) comprises a brake system (15) configured to block movement of the conveying system (17) when the latter is not not activated. 4. Vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the conveying system (17) is of a width equal to or less than a width of a door of the vehicle (26) when the door is open. 5. Vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that a drive means (25) configured to set in motion the conveying system (17) is separated from the vehicle (26). 6. Vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the conveying system (17) comprises at least one contact zone intended to come into contact with at least one contact element (3) of the means of drive (25) in order to operate conveyor system (17). 7. Vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the vehicle (26) comprises a drive means (25) configured to set in motion the conveying system (17). 8. System for transporting at least one object for a cable-guided transport installation, the system comprising: – At least one cable-guided transport vehicle (26) comprising a conveyor system (17) configured to move an object inside or outside the vehicle (26), the conveyor system (17) forming at least one minus a part of a floor of the vehicle; – At least one drive means (25) configured to set the conveying system (17) in motion. 9. System according to claim 8, characterized in that the drive means (25) is arranged in at least one station of the cable-guided transport installation, at the level of the passage (28) of the vehicles (26) in order to to activate the conveyor system (17) when the vehicle (26) passes through the station. 10. System according to claim 9, characterized in that a system for conveying an object comprising at least one conveyor element (18, 19, 20) is arranged in the station and configured to move the at least one object to the vehicle (26).