RU2849665C2 - Manipulation device with variable support area for manipulating containers - Google Patents

Abstract

FIELD: freight transport.

SUBSTANCE: device for manipulating containers with a variable support area comprises a first upright, designed to be connected to the fifth wheel coupling of a tractor, a second upright, to which a first freely rotating support wheel is freely connected, a third upright, to which a second freely rotating support wheel is freely connected, a lifting device for lifting the container, and a connecting device that connects the second upright and the third upright to the first upright.

EFFECT: connecting device is designed so that at least one of the three posts can be moved relative to the other two posts between a first position and a second position, in which the support area in the plan of the device in the specified second position is smaller than the variable support area in the plan of the device in the specified first position.

6 cl, 29 dwg

Description

Field of technology

The present invention relates to a device with a variable footprint for handling containers (ISO), i.e., configured to be placed in an operating configuration in which it allows for the lifting and lowering of containers, for example, onto and from a bogie of a road train, and in a storage/transport configuration in which the containers cannot be lifted or lowered. In particular, the footprint of the device in the storage/transport configuration is smaller than the footprint in the operating configuration, so that the device can be transported on the bogie of a standard road train and on ordinary roads open to public use.

State of the art

Devices for handling containers are known that are capable of varying the support area, defined as the combination of the maximum height, width and length of the device, to change from an operating configuration in which they can lift/lower and transport on the ground a container, usually one or a maximum of two containers, to a storage or transport configuration in which the support area of the device is reduced compared to the operating configuration, so that it can, for example, be transported on the chassis of a standard road train moving on city roads.

Such devices typically comprise a frame with a variable support area, for example, comprising telescopic vertical side members and/or posts, wherein the frame with a variable support area rests against the base by means of at least three, preferably four wheels, at least one, preferably two, of which are driving wheels, in order to be able to move the frame and, together with it, the container, which was connected to the container by means of a lifting device.

Thus, the device is equipped with a motor that provides the necessary force to the drive wheels to move the device, and a cabin that allows the operator to control the device. The motor can be a hydraulic motor, driven by a pressurized fluid supplied by a pump connected to a variable-base frame.

As one might expect, the engine and cabin have a significant bearing surface, which conflicts with the need to minimize the bearing surface of the unit in a storage/transport configuration. As one might also expect, such components complicate and lengthen the design/construction process, and also contribute to a significant weight load.

The objective of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems of prior art devices.

This problem is solved by the features of the invention set forth in the independent claim. The dependent claims describe preferred and/or particularly preferred aspects of the invention.

Disclosure of invention

The technical features of the proposed invention in all its variants and embodiments make it possible to create a handling device with a variable support area for handling containers, the advantage of which is that in a closed configuration this device can be placed on the bogie of a standard road train or truck without exceeding the maximum values of the support area for transportation on roads open to public use, i.e. 4 m maximum height and 2.55 m maximum width, and, therefore, can be easily transported on roads open to public use.

It should be noted that a standard road train is defined as a road train with a flat top surface adapted to support the load carried along with the bogie, and the height of which from the ground is less than 1.6 meters.

In particular, the invention makes available a handling device with a variable support area for handling containers, comprising:

- a first post configured to be connected to the fifth wheel coupling of a tractor,

- a second stand, to which the first freely rotating support wheel is freely connected,

- a third stand, to which a second freely rotating support wheel is freely connected,

- a lifting device for lifting the container,

- a connecting device that connects the second post and the third post to the first post and is configured to move at least one of the three posts relative to another of the three posts between a first position and a second position, in which the support area in plan of the device in said second position is less than the support area in plan of the device in said first position.

This solution makes available a variable-footprint container handling device that is more compact, lightweight, easily transportable, and cost-effective, while maintaining the same performance as prior art devices. These advantages are particularly evident in the device's ability to handle containers without the need for drive wheels, as it can utilize the drive wheels of a tractor equipped with a fifth-wheel coupling (or any other equivalent coupling element) to which the first leg is adapted, for example, when free-linked. Accordingly, since it does not require drive wheels, it eliminates the need for motors, typically hydraulic/oleodynamic, used in prior art devices to rotate the support wheels, as well as for means for controlling and orienting the drive wheels and for driving the device, as these are already included in the tractor. As also described below, the device may comprise a pump driven by an electric motor or an endothermic engine to generate pressurized fluid to activate the coupling device, which, since it does not need to provide sufficient force to actuate the drive wheels, may be smaller than prior art devices and therefore less bulky. Furthermore, it is possible that the device may not have an integrated pump for actuating the coupling device and may be connected to a pump external to the device, making it even lighter and more compact. The device may also be transported on the bogie of a standard road train on public roads, since, once in the transport position, its configuration does not protrude beyond the bogie of the road train.

According to one aspect of the invention, the connecting device may be configured to move at least one of the second and third posts between a first position in which the distance of the third post from the second post is maximum, and a second position in which said distance is minimum.

According to one aspect of the invention, designed to improve the compactness of the system in the transport configuration while maintaining high functionality in the working configuration, the connecting device may comprise:

- a first crossbar provided with a first end connected to the first post and a second end connected to the third post,

- a second crossbar provided with a first end rigidly attached to the second post and a second end pivotally connected to the first post and the first crossbar relative to the vertical axis of rotation,

- a drive designed with the possibility of moving the second rack during rotation relative to the specified vertical axis of rotation.

Another aspect of the invention provides that the drive may be a linear drive provided with a first end pivotally connected to one of the sections between the first post, the first crossbar and the third post, and an opposite second end pivotally connected to one of the sections between the second post and the second crossbar.

Another aspect of the invention provides that the third post and the second post may be of a telescopic type.

Thus, it is possible, with the same support area in the working configuration, to reduce the support area in the transport configuration.

Another aspect of the invention, according to which the first post and the first crossbar can be of a telescopic type, can contribute to improving this advantage.

Additionally, this feature allows the rack to be raised to a point where the first crossbar and second crossbar are above the tractor, allowing the unit to be positioned in front of the tractor for improved maneuverability, while still allowing the unit to be loaded onto the dolly.

According to one aspect of the invention, the lifting device may comprise:

- the first lever, connected to the second rack and developing transversely to it in the longitudinal direction,

- the second lever, connected to the third pillar and developing transversely to it in the longitudinal direction,

- a first gripping member of the container, connected to a first cable, at least partially wound on a first wheel, pivotally connected near the first end of the first lever distal to the second post and driven by a first drive,

- a second gripping member of the container, connected to a second cable, at least partially wound on a second wheel, pivotally connected near the second end of the first lever distal from the second post and opposite the first, and driven by a second drive,

- a third gripping member of the container, connected to a third cable, at least partially wound on a third wheel, pivotally connected near the first end of the second lever distal from the third post and driven by a third drive,

- a fourth gripping member of the container, connected to a fourth cable, at least partially wound on a fourth wheel, pivotally connected near the second end of the second lever distal from the third post and opposite the first, and driven by a fourth drive,

and where at least one of the first and second levers is pivotally connected to the corresponding stand along the vertical axis of the hinge.

In this way, it is possible to reduce the support area of the device, which otherwise, if all two levers were rigidly attached, that is, rigidly attached without a residual degree of freedom with respect to the rack, would touch each other when passing from the first position to the second, well before the proposed solution, which allows at least one of the levers to be adapted to the other, keeping them, for example, parallel and not incident, and, therefore, allows the second rack and the third rack to be brought closer to each other.

According to another aspect of the invention, the device may comprise a pump driven by a motor and operatively connected to a connecting device for moving the first post between the first and second position, wherein the pump and the motor are connected to one of said three posts or said connecting device.

According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the second end of the first crossbar may be pivotally connected to the third post relative to the first axis of rotation, and the first end of the second crossbar may be pivotally connected to the second post relative to the second axis of rotation.

This allows the first and second columns to be rotated relative to the corresponding crossbars of the coupling device, keeping the support wheels parallel to each other even when handling loads larger or smaller than an ISO container. Without these characteristics, beyond the optimal calculated distance between the third and second columns, in other positions, since the wheels are pivotally connected to the columns only about the horizontal axes of rotation, the wheels will roll along incidental trajectories, meaning they will be forced to slide when the device moves along a straight axis.

According to another aspect of the invention, the first freely rotating wheel and the second freely rotating wheel of the device can be rotatably connected to the covered section of the second post and the third post, and can be completely in an external position and adjacent to them.

According to an additional aspect of the invention, the enclosing section of each rack can be movable between a first position in which its lower end is located at a vertical height greater than the maximum vertical height of the wheel, and a second position in which the lower end of the enclosing section is located at a vertical height less than the maximum vertical height of the wheel.

Thanks to this characteristic, it is possible to create a crane that, when the telescopic legs are folded, has a lower height from the ground than other designs of connecting wheels to the corresponding legs.

According to another aspect of the invention, each wheel can be rotatably connected to the male section of the corresponding stand relative to the horizontal axis of rotation and at the lower end portion of said male section.

According to a similar aspect of the invention, the wheel may be connected to a male section of the corresponding rack in such a way that the upper portion of the wheel is located at a vertical height equal to or greater than the vertical height of the lower end of the male section.

This feature helps to reduce the space between the lower end of the covered section and the base on which the wheel rests, making the device more compact compared to a solution in which the wheel is located entirely at a height below the post, such as in the case where the wheel is located below the corresponding post.

Similarly, the wheel may be connected to the male section such that the axis of rotation is located at a vertical height equal to or greater than the vertical height of the lower end of the male section.

This is especially beneficial when designing a device with large wheels, as it reduces the vertical support area of the device.

The invention also makes it possible to create a system for handling containers, comprising a tractor equipped with a fifth wheel coupling and a device according to paragraph 1, wherein the first post is detachably connected to the fifth wheel coupling of the tractor.

Brief description of the drawings

Additional features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from reading the following description, given as a non-limiting example, with the help of the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1 is a schematic plan view of a container handling system according to the invention, comprising a container handling device according to the invention, illustrated in a container handling step on land.

Fig. 2 is a schematic side view of the system of Fig. 1.

Fig. 3 is a schematic side view of the container handling system shown in the previous figures, illustrated in the stage of picking up or unloading a container relative to a truck of a road train.

Fig. 4 is a schematic side view of the container handling device of the previous figures, illustrated in a transport configuration during transport on a truck of a road train.

Fig. 5 is a schematic plan view of what is illustrated in Fig. 4.

Fig. 6 is a schematic plan view illustrating the step of transition of the device from the working configuration to the transport configuration.

Fig. 7 is a plan view of the tractor of the system of the previous figures.

Fig. 8 is a schematic plan view of an alternative embodiment of the device of the previous figures, in which the second crossbar is telescopic.

Fig. 9 is a schematic plan view of the system of the previous figures, in which the tractor is located to the side of the device and container.

Fig. 10 is a schematic plan view of a container handling system according to the invention, comprising a container handling device according to the invention, illustrated in a container handling step on land.

Fig. 11 is a schematic side view of the system of Fig. 1.

Fig. 12 is a schematic side view of the container handling system shown in the previous figures, illustrated in the stage of picking up or unloading a container relative to a truck of a road train.

Fig. 13 is a schematic side view of the container handling device of the previous figures, illustrated in a transport configuration during transport on a truck of a road train.

Fig. 14 is a schematic side view of what is illustrated in Fig. 4.

Fig. 15 is a schematic plan view showing the apparatus in a transport configuration.

Fig. 16 is a plan view of the tractor of the system of the previous figures.

Fig. 17 is a schematic plan view of an alternative embodiment of the system according to the invention, illustrated in the stage of handling the container on land.

Fig. 18 is a schematic plan view of the apparatus of the system of Fig. 17 shown in a transport configuration.

Fig. 19 is a schematic plan view of an alternative embodiment of the device according to the invention.

Fig. 20 is a schematic sectional view of a telescopic post or crossbar illustrating a characteristic shape of one of the first post, the second post, the third post, the first crossbar or the second crossbar of embodiments of the crane according to the invention.

Fig. 21 is a schematic plan view of the enclosed section of the telescopic post or crossbar shown in Fig. 20.

Fig. 22 is a schematic plan view of the enclosing section of the telescopic strut or crossbar shown in Fig. 20.

Fig. 23 is a schematic sectional view of a telescopic post or crossbar illustrating an alternative characteristic shape of one of the first post, the second post, the third post, the first crossbar or the second crossbar of embodiments of the crane according to the invention.

Fig. 24 is a schematic plan view of the span section of the telescopic post or crossbar shown in Fig. 23.

Fig. 25 is a schematic plan view of the enclosing section of the telescopic strut or crossbar shown in Fig. 23.

Fig. 26 is a schematic side view of one embodiment of the system of Fig. 11, in which the freely rotating wheels are externally connected to the rack and in which the enclosing section of the rack is in its first position.

Fig. 27 is a schematic side view of the system of Fig. 26 shown in a configuration in which the enclosing section of the rack is in a second position.

Fig. 28 is a schematic sectional view of the system of Fig. 26 along section plane A-A.

Fig. 29 is a schematic side view of one embodiment of the device, alternative to that shown in Fig. 1-28.

The best version of the invention

In particular, referring to Fig. 1-9, a system for handling containers 205 (ISO containers), in particular of a type capable of autonomously moving on roads and highways open to public use, is globally designated by the number 200. In the illustrated embodiment, the system 200 is intended for handling one container, however, with appropriate changes in the dimensions of the system, which are readily available to a person skilled in the art, the inventive concept underlying the system can be adapted to transport two containers stacked vertically on top of each other.

The container 205 that can be handled by the system is preferably an ISO container (provided with connecting elements, for example in the form of pins and/or grooves) adapted to be gripped by the system 200, for example using hooks.

The system 200 comprises a tractor 210, i.e. a self-propelled vehicle suitable for land transportation, which comprises a frame 215 to which at least one pair of driving and steering wheels 220 or one pair of driving wheels and one pair of steering wheels (and, possibly, in general, also at least one pair of freely rotating wheels 225) are attached.

The illustrated tractor is a road train, i.e. a self-propelled vehicle adapted for transporting carts standing on the ground by means of freely rotating wheels, however, it is possible that the tractor could also be another self-propelled vehicle, such as a forklift.

A bogie is defined as a frame with a flat top surface for supporting a load, such as a container, and to which are attached a plurality of supporting wheels, all of which are free-wheeling. In practice, a tractor is required to move a bogie.

The tractor 210 comprises an engine (not shown) for generating the force required by the drive wheels to move the tractor, and a transmission (in the case where the engine is endothermic) for transmitting the engine energy to the drive wheels.

The tractor 210 further comprises a steering system (not shown) for controlling the steering wheels or steering and driving wheels, as well as a cabin adapted to accommodate the tractor operator and controls for controlling the said tractor systems.

The tractor 210 comprises a fifth wheel coupling device 230 (international name) connected to the frame of the tractor and designed with the possibility of a detachable connection with a towed bogie, which supports a section of the said bogie from below.

In particular, the fifth wheel coupling 230 comprises a plate provided with a substantially flat upper surface 235 (which is typically lubricated to reduce friction with the portion of the bogie positioned on top of it), in which a recess 240 is formed, adapted to receive the bogie pin.

The fifth wheel coupling comprises a locking mechanism capable of selectively holding and releasing a pin (bogie) inserted into a recess.

The cabin is located at the front of the tractor, and the fifth wheel coupling 230 is located at the rear of the tractor.

System 200 further comprises a handling device 201 (hereinafter referred to as device 201) with a variable support area for handling containers 205. Specifically, the handling performed by the device includes raising, lowering, and holding the container suspended above the ground. By connecting the device to a tractor 210, as will become clear below, the container can be manipulated, moving it horizontally in space, while the device holds the container suspended in the air.

The device 201 is a device with a variable support area, since it is capable of changing its support area between an operating (or functional) configuration in which a container (or a pair of containers) can be raised/lowered and held in a raised position, and a storage or transport configuration in which the maximum total support area of the device 201 is reduced compared to the operating configuration.

A variable support area is defined as the ability to vary at least one of its dimensions between height, width, and length. Width and length are perpendicular to each other and lie in a horizontal plane, while height is measured vertically. Additionally, in this discussion, width will be used to refer to a direction of measurement perpendicular to the forward direction of the tractor, when device 201 is connected to and aligned with the tractor (as seen in the figures), while length will refer to a direction of measurement parallel to the forward direction of the tractor and perpendicular to the length.

The maximum total support area can be considered as the volume of the smallest parallelepiped that completely contains the device 201.

The device 201 comprises a frame with a variable support area, also defined as "with variable geometry", configured to be detachably connected to the tractor 210, namely to the fifth wheel coupling device 230 of the tractor for movement with its help.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame is capable of varying its support area in all three specified directions (height, width, and length). However, it is possible that in a less preferred and unillustrated embodiment, the frame is capable of varying its support area only in the width direction, or in both the width and length direction, but not in the height direction.

Changing the frame's support area allows device 201 to operate between a working configuration, in which it is capable of handling the container—that is, lifting, lowering, and holding it suspended—and a transport or storage configuration, in which device 201 is adapted for transport on a bogie attached to a tractor. In the transport configuration, device 201 is not intended for handling the container.

In the working configuration, the support area of the frame (and device 201) is maximum, while in the transport or storage configuration it is minimum.

Said variable-footprint frame comprises a first pillar 255, which is vertical—i.e., extends primarily longitudinally along the vertical axis—and is adapted for detachable connection to the tractor. Specifically, device 201 is connected to the tractor solely through the first pillar.

The first post 255 is adapted to be connected, i.e., to be freely connected, to the fifth wheel coupling device 230 of the tractor, so that the first post can rotate relative to the tractor about the vertical axis of rotation R1. Alternatively, the post may comprise a rigidly fixed lower section, i.e., rigidly fixed without residual degrees of freedom, on the fifth wheel coupling device 230, and the remaining part of the first post is connected with the possibility of rotation to said lower section about the vertical axis of rotation R1.

For connection with a fifth wheel coupling, the first post comprises a coupling device located at the lower end 256 of the first post.

Such a connecting device may be, for example, known to those skilled in the art for fastening a bogie to a fifth wheel coupling device of a tractor and may comprise a pin (not shown) adapted to be inserted into a recess 240 of a fifth wheel coupling device 230.

Obviously, it cannot be ruled out that, as an alternative to a fifth-wheel coupling, the tractor could incorporate a system for ad hoc coupling of the first strut. In such a case, the tractor could, for example, incorporate a vertical pin on which the lower section of the first strut is mounted, thus creating a rotoidal pair with a vertical axis of rotation R1.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first stand is made telescopic and has the ability to change its longitudinal extension along the vertical direction.

Thus, the first rack comprises a lower section 260, which comprises a lower portion of the first rack, and an upper section 265, which is configured to move relative to the lower section in a vertical direction, for example, by means of a linear drive 270.

The frame with a variable support area comprises a second post 275 (vertical, i.e. developing in the longitudinal direction along the vertical axis), to which the first freely rotating support wheel 280 is freely connected. In practice, the second post rests on the base (only) by means of the first freely rotating wheel, which is connected to the lower end of the second post.

The first freely rotating wheel 280 is rotatably connected to the second post 275, at least relative to the horizontal axis of rotation. It is possible that the first freely rotating wheel 280 may also be rotatably connected to the second post 275 relative to a vertical axis of rotation, for example, coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the post.

The first freely rotating wheel 280 may be at least partially vertically aligned with the second post. Preferably, the second post completely overlaps the first freely rotating wheel in plan.

In the illustrated embodiment, to further reduce the support area, the second post comprises a cavity 285, within which, at least partially, the first freely rotating wheel 280 is contained.

For example, the second post may also comprise a drive configured to selectively extend the first freely rotating wheel out of the cavity (so that at least one third of the wheel protrudes) and retract it into the cavity (so that less than one quarter of the wheel protrudes from the cavity), which allows for a further reduction in the support area and at the same time allows for overcoming obstacles when the wheel is extended.

It is possible that the second pillar may contain more than one support wheel, freely pivotally connected to the second pillar.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second column is telescopic and capable of varying its longitudinal extension along the vertical direction. Specifically, the second column may comprise a lower section 290, to which the first freely rotating wheel 280 is directly connected in the manner described above, and an upper section 295, movable relative to the lower section along the vertical axis. For example, the second section may be actuated by a linear actuator 296, as shown in the figures.

The second rack 275 is different and spaced at a non-zero distance from the first rack.

The frame with a variable support area also contains a third post 300 (vertical, i.e. developing in the longitudinal direction along the vertical axis), to which a second freely rotating support wheel 305 is freely connected. In practice, the third post rests on the base (only) by means of the second freely rotating wheel, which is connected to the lower end of the third post.

The second freely rotating wheel 305 is rotatably connected to the third post 300, at least relative to the horizontal axis of rotation. It is possible that the second freely rotating wheel 305 may also be rotatably connected to the third post 300 relative to a vertical axis of rotation, for example, coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the post.

The second freely rotating wheel 305 may be at least partially vertically aligned with the third post. Preferably, the third post completely overlaps the second freely rotating wheel in plan.

In the illustrated embodiment, to further reduce the support area, the third pillar comprises a cavity 310, within which, at least partially, a second freely rotating wheel 305 is contained.

For example, the third post may also comprise a drive configured to extend the second freely rotating wheel out of the cavity (so that at least one third of the wheel protrudes) and retract it into the cavity (so that less than one quarter of the wheel protrudes from the cavity), which allows for a further reduction in the support area and at the same time allows for overcoming obstacles when the wheel is extended.

It is possible that the third pillar may contain more than one support wheel, freely pivotally connected to the third pillar.

In the illustrated embodiment, the third column is telescopic and capable of varying its longitudinal extension along the vertical direction. Specifically, the third column may comprise a lower section 300a, to which a second freely rotating wheel 305 is directly connected in the manner described above, and an upper section 300b, movable relative to the lower section along a vertical axis. For example, the second section may be actuated by a linear actuator 315, as shown in the figures.

The third rack 300 is different and spaced at a non-zero distance from both the first rack 255 and the second rack 275.

Preferably, the variable-footprint frame does not contain any other support posts besides the first, second, and third. In other words, the weight of device 201 and any associated container is distributed across the base, passing only through the first, second, and third posts.

Additionally, during use, the device 201 contacts the base only through the first freely rotating wheel, the second freely rotating wheel and the tractor, when the device 201 is connected to the tractor (alternatively, the device 201 may briefly rest on a stand and/or a support leg with variable extension).

The frame with a variable support area comprises a connecting device connecting the second post 275 and the third post 300 with the first post 255 and made, for example, with the help of drives and rods and/or hinges, with the possibility of moving at least one of the three posts relative to another of the three posts between a first position (in which the device 201 has a given support area in plan), for example, where the support area in plan of the device 201, i.e. the frame with a variable support area, is maximum, and a second position, where the support area in plan of the device 201, i.e. the frame with a variable support area, in said second position is less than the support area in plan of the device 201 in said first position.

It should be noted that the support area in plan is the width and length of the frame as seen from the plan. Alternatively, this support area in plan can be understood as the area of a triangle lying in a horizontal plane, the vertices of which are located at the corresponding posts.

The first position of the connecting device is the position that must be adopted to achieve the operating configuration of the device 201 in which it allows the container to be transported, and the second position must be adopted to achieve the transport configuration of the device 201.

In the first position, the container to be raised or lowered, or which is held in a raised position by the device 201, is placed (directly) between the first post, the second post and the third post.

The direction in which the width of the device 201 is measured can also be defined as the direction of the horizontal distance between the second post 275 and the third post 300 when the connecting device is in the first position.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting device is configured to move the third post 300 (relative to the second post 275 and the first post 255) between a first position in which the distance (horizontal and minimum) of the third post 300 from the first post 255 is maximum, and a second position in which the distance (horizontal and minimum) between the third post and the first post is minimum, and the third post is at a smaller distance from the first post than the distance of the second post from the first post.

For example, in this second position, the third rack is placed between the first and second racks.

When moving from one position to another, only the third stand moves relative to the two, which always remain at a given distance from each other.

In practice, the connecting device is designed to bring the third post and the first post closer to each other and move them further away from each other, for example, by causing at least one of them to rotate relative to a vertical axis of rotation.

In the first position, the distance of the third post from the first is approximately equal to the distance of the second post from the first, i.e., the distance of the third post from the first is between + and - 20% of the distance of the second post from the first. In the illustrated embodiment, in the first position, the distance of the third post from the first post is equal to the distance of the second post from the first post.

Additionally, in the first position, the second and third posts are aligned along a direction perpendicular to the vertical axial plane of device 201, which passes through the first post (this axial plane can be detected when the connecting device is in the first position). This axial plane also divides the container into two parts when device 201 manipulates it.

In a preferred embodiment of the connecting device illustrated in the figures, the connecting device comprises a first crossbar 320, for example with a straight stroke, which is provided with a first end 320a, rigidly attached (without residual degrees of freedom) to the first post 255, that is, to the upper portion (upper section) of the first post 255, and an opposite second end 320b, with which the second post 275, that is, with the upper portion (upper section) of the second post 275, is pivotally connected relative to the vertical axis of rotation R2.

For example, the first crossbar is located horizontally.

The first crossbar 320 is preferably telescopic so as to be able to vary the horizontal distance between its first end 320a and second end 320b. This allows for the horizontal distance between the first post 255 and the second post 275 to be varied, thereby improving the compactness of the variable support area frame.

Thus, the first crossbar may comprise a first section including a first end 320a and a second section including a second end 320b, which is configured to move relative to the first section along a straight axis using a linear drive 325.

The first crossbar contains only the ends indicated and is directly connected only to the first post and the second post.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting device also comprises a second crossbar 330 having a first end 330a rigidly attached (without residual degrees of freedom) to the second post 275, that is, to the upper portion (upper section) of the second post 275, and an opposite second end 330b rigidly attached (without residual degrees of freedom) to the third post 300, that is, to the upper portion (upper section) of the third post 300.

The second crossbar contains only the ends indicated and is directly connected only to the third post and the second post.

For example, the second crossbar is located horizontally.

In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 1-7, the second crossbar is preferably non-extensible.

However, in the embodiment of the device illustrated in Figs. 8 and 9, the second crossbar is telescopic, so as to be able to change the horizontal distance between its first end and second end. In such a case, as illustrated in Fig. 8, the second crossbar also comprises a linear actuator 331, configured to change said horizontal distance between the aforementioned first and second ends.

The first and second crossbars are positioned at such a vertical height that they are completely above the container being handled, without interfering with it.

The connecting device further comprises a drive 335, configured to cause the third post to rotate relative to the axis of rotation R2 and relative to the first crossbar, that is, to move the second crossbar 330, to which the third post is rigidly attached, relative to the axis of rotation R2 and relative to the first crossbar.

Rotation of the third post relative to the rotation axis R2 using the drive 335 allows the connecting device to operate between the first and second positions of the connecting device.

Said rotation of the third pillar about the axis of rotation R2 in combination with the rotation of the first pillar about its axis of rotation R1 further allows the tractor 210 to be positioned laterally in relation to the device 201 and, therefore, next to the container 205, as illustrated in Fig. 9.

Thus, the system can be used to lift and handle loads longer than the ISO container, for example, even longer than the system itself, if the second crossbar is positioned perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the load, and the tractor is positioned in plan next to the load, forcing it to move forward or backward along a trajectory parallel to the longitudinal axis of the load.

For example, the drive 335 is a linear drive provided with a first end 335a pivotally connected to one of the sections between the first post 255 and the first crossbar 320, and an opposite second end 335b pivotally connected to one of the sections between the third post 300 and the second crossbar 330.

The drive comprises a first section equipped with a first end and a second section equipped with a second end and movable relative to the first section along a straight axis. Such a straight axis preferably lies on the horizontal axis.

In particular, in the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 1, the first end 335a is pivotally connected to the first crossbar, and the second end 335b is pivotally connected to the second crossbar.

The drive is preferably of the oleopneumatic type.

For example, the first and second crossbars can be straight.

In the second position, the first and second crossbars have longitudinal axes facing each other, and in the second position, the first and second crossbars have longitudinal axes that are substantially parallel to each other.

In an alternative, less preferred embodiment of the connecting device, the third post may be directly connected by a telescopic crossbar to the first post, and the second post may be connected by a rigid crossbar, which does not change in length, to the first post.

A frame with a variable bearing area is rigid, meaning it does not deform under normal operating loads. In other words, the uprights and crossbars of a frame with a variable bearing area are rigid.

A lifting device for lifting the container (relative to the ground, i.e. relative to the vertical height of the wheels) is connected to the frame with a variable support area, i.e. it is designed with the ability to lift, hold the container in a raised and lowered position.

The said lifting device is provided with a first section (directly) connected to the second post, and a second section (directly) connected to the third post.

Each of the said sections is provided with a connecting device or a lower support of the container, designed with the possibility of operating at least in a vertical direction for lifting, holding in a raised state and lowering the container.

In the illustrated embodiment, both the first and second portions of the lifting device comprise a pair of levers, wherein the first lever 340 and the second lever 345 are pivotally connected to the corresponding post, preferably freely, relative to the corresponding vertical hinge axis (different for the two levers) and develop along the corresponding longitudinal directions transverse to the corresponding hinge axis, for example, horizontally in the direction from the corresponding post.

Each section of the lifting device contains a corresponding gripping member 350,370, i.e. the first connecting member of the container and a corresponding drive device of said first gripping member, made with the possibility of its vertical movement.

In the illustrated embodiment, each drive device comprises a cable 355, 375, at least partially wound on a second (freely rotating) wheel 360, 380, pivotally connected to a corresponding lever 340, 345 and driven by a corresponding drive 365, 385, for example, a linear one, with which the corresponding cable and the corresponding gripping member are connected.

The gripping element may be, for example, a hook.

Alternatively, the drive devices may comprise linear actuators with one end connected (e.g., rigidly or pivotally) to a corresponding lever and the opposite end connected (e.g., rigidly or pivotally) to a corresponding gripping element. In such an embodiment, the gripping element may be a forklift fork or a hook.

In a non-illustrated embodiment, the lifting device may comprise at least two pairs of forks, one pair rigidly connected to the top section of the second post, and the other pair rigidly connected to the top section of the third post. Thus, the telescopic posts can be used to lift the container by pushing it from below, after the forks are positioned underneath.

The illustrated lifting device comprises a first spacer bar 390 and a second spacer bar 395 configured to be detachably connected to the corresponding facing levers of the lifting device so as to prevent rotation of said levers relative to the hinge axes.

In particular, the first spacer bar has a first end connected to the first lever of the first section of the lifting device, and an opposite second end connected to the second lever of the second section of the lifting device, and located directly between them.

The spacer bars are rigid, meaning they do not deform under the normal operating loads they are subjected to. Specifically, these bars only exert traction and compression forces under the force applied to them by the levers between which they are positioned.

The lifting device may comprise, in addition to the first and second spacer bars, a third spacer bar 400 and a fourth spacer bar 405, which extend from one of the posts between the second and third posts towards the levers of the section of the lifting device connected to the opposite post.

The device 201 may comprise a pump (not shown) driven by a motor (not shown) and operatively connected to the coupling device for moving the first post between the first and second positions, i.e. for supplying power to the drive of the coupling device.

As you might guess, such a pump can also be used to power other drives that may be present when certain elements are telescopic, such as racks.

These pumps and motor are smaller in size than prior art devices because they only need to power the variable geometry frame drives and do not also need to drive the wheels to move the frame.

The said pump and the said motor are connected to one of the three posts or to a connecting device.

The working configuration of the device 201, i.e. the frame with a variable support area, occurs when the connecting device is in the first position, and all telescopic racks are in one of their positions of maximum longitudinal extension.

In the illustrated embodiment, the operating configuration occurs when the connecting device is in the first position, all telescopic pillars are in the position of maximum longitudinal extension, the freely rotating wheels protrude at least one third from the cavity, and the spacer strips are located between the levers of the lifting device.

The working configuration coincides with the first position of the connecting device only in a less preferred embodiment, in which the racks are not telescopic, the wheels are not located in cavities made in the racks, and are movable relative to these cavities, and the lifting device contains forks that can move vertically along the racks, instead of articulated levers.

The transport configuration of the device 201, i.e. the frame with a variable support area, occurs when the connecting device is in its second position, and all telescopic pillars are in one of their positions of minimum longitudinal extension.

In the illustrated embodiment, the transport configuration occurs when the connecting device is in the second position, all telescopic racks are in the position of minimum longitudinal extension, the freely rotating wheels protrude less than a quarter of the cavity, while the first crossbar is in the position of minimum longitudinal extension, and the spacer bars are not located between the levers of the lifting device.

The working configuration coincides with the second position of the connecting device only in a less preferred embodiment, in which the posts are not telescopic, the first crossbar is not telescopic, the wheels are not located in cavities made in the posts and are movable relative to these cavities, and the lifting device contains forks that can move vertically along the posts.

The illustrated device 201 can be coupled to any tractor, such as a road train, if it is equipped with a fifth-wheel coupling. Alternatively, it is possible to envisage the use of a special tractor equipped with a fifth-wheel coupling (or, alternatively, a device for fastening the device, containing a pin or a round seat, which allows the device 201 to be releasably coupled to the special tractor, forming a rotoidal pair with a vertical axis of rotation with the first column of the device 201. For example, such a tractor can be an adapted forklift or other self-propelled industrial vehicle.

To facilitate loading of the device onto a trolley for its transportation, when the device is in the transportation configuration, the system may comprise a stand 311 having a pair of horizontal telescopic upper crossbars that are located next to and parallel to each other and are configured to extend and retract during operation of the connecting device between the first and second position by partially supporting the first and second crossbars and following them in a movement leading to a transition between the second and first position.

The operation of the system 200, according to the invention, is carried out as follows.

The device 201 is transported in a transport configuration, located on a cart pulled by a tractor, which delivers it to where it is to be used for handling containers (see Figs. 4 and 5).

Upon reaching the destination, the device 201 is transferred from the transport configuration to the working configuration, supporting it during this transition, for example, by placing it on special stands, such as, for example, stand 311, or by using a forklift, or by lifting it with a crane.

First, when switching from the transport configuration to the operating configuration, the coupling device drive, which rotates the second crossbar 330 about the vertical rotation axis R2, is activated to move it from the second position to the first position. After this, the first post 255 can be connected to the fifth wheel coupling 230 of the tractor.

If the uprights are telescopic, as illustrated, then the uprights and possibly the first crossbar extend.

Also, in the illustrated case, when the lifting device comprises levers 340, 345, from the position visible in the plan in Fig. 5, they must be rotated relative to the corresponding hinge axes in such a way that in each pair of levers they both protrude in diametrically opposite directions from the corresponding post to which they are pivotally connected. These directions are essentially parallel to the forward direction of movement of the system when the device 201 is connected to the tractor, that is, parallel to the median plane of the device 201 when it is in the first position. Additionally, after the installation of the levers, they are fixed in place using spacer strips 390, 395, 400, 405 attached to them.

When the device 201 is in the working configuration and connected to the tractor, the device 201 is moved by the tractor towards the container that needs to be lifted, positioning it so that the container is located between the first post, the second post and the third post.

In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the container is also located in plan between the levers of the first section of the lifting device and the levers of the second section of the lifting device.

At this point, the container is grabbed by the gripping devices of the lifting device and lifted so that it does not touch the ground or the trolley on which the container is located.

While the device 201 holds the container in a raised position, the tractor moves the device 201 to the location where the container is to be unloaded, i.e., lowered. For example, thanks to the first telescopic pillar, the first crossbar can be positioned at a higher height than the upper portion of the tractor, so that the tractor can be oriented such that the second and third pillars, and therefore the lifting device, are located in front of the cabin (as illustrated in Fig. 3).

Once the 201 device has completed its work, it can be returned from the transport configuration, stored at the work site, or moved to another location (work or storage).

In the case of the illustrated device 201, the first step is to remove the spacer bars, after which, or if the device 201 is not the illustrated device, the drive of the connecting device is actuated to move it from the first position to the second position.

If the posts and the first crossbar are telescopic, as in the illustrated case, they are also moved to the position of minimum longitudinal extension.

The levers must be rotated relative to the respective hinge axes as illustrated in Fig. 6, i.e. so that they are aligned in twos (thus, within one pair of levers) relative to the direction transverse to the direction passing from the second post to the first post when the connecting device is in the second position.

Since the arms are free to move in this configuration, it is recommended to attach them to the rest of the variable bearing frame using cables.

In particular, referring to Fig. 10-16, a system for handling containers 205 (ISO containers), in particular of a type capable of autonomously moving on roads and highways open to public use, is globally designated by the number 200. In the illustrated embodiments, the system 200 is intended for handling one container, however, with appropriate changes in the dimensions of the system, which are readily available to a person skilled in the art, the inventive concept underlying the system can be adapted to transport two containers stacked vertically on top of each other.

The container 205 that can be handled by the system is preferably an ISO container (provided with connecting elements, for example in the form of pins and/or grooves) adapted to be gripped by the system 200, for example using hooks.

The system 500 comprises a tractor 510, i.e. a self-propelled vehicle suitable for land transportation, which comprises a frame 515 to which at least one pair of driving and steering wheels 520 or one pair of driving wheels and one pair of steering wheels (and, possibly, in general, also at least one pair of freely rotating wheels 525) are attached.

The illustrated tractor is a road train, i.e. a self-propelled vehicle adapted for transporting carts standing on the ground by means of freely rotating wheels, however, it is possible that the tractor could also be another self-propelled vehicle, such as a forklift.

A bogie is defined as a frame with a flat top surface for supporting a load, such as a container, and to which are attached a plurality of supporting wheels, all of which are free-wheeling. In practice, a tractor is required to move a bogie.

The tractor 510 comprises an engine (not shown) for generating the force required by the drive wheels to move the tractor, and a transmission (in the case where the engine is endothermic) for transmitting the engine energy to the drive wheels.

The tractor 510 further comprises a steering system (not shown) for controlling the steering wheels or steering and driving wheels, as well as a cabin adapted to accommodate the tractor operator and controls for controlling the said tractor systems.

The tractor 510 comprises a fifth wheel coupling device 530 (international name) connected to the frame of the tractor and designed with the possibility of a detachable connection with a towed bogie, which supports a section of the said bogie from below.

In particular, the fifth wheel coupling 530 comprises a plate provided with a substantially flat upper surface 535 (which is typically lubricated to reduce friction with the portion of the bogie positioned on top of it), in which a recess 540 is formed, adapted to receive the bogie pin.

The fifth wheel coupling comprises a locking mechanism capable of selectively holding and releasing a pin (bogie) inserted into a recess.

The cabin is located at the front of the tractor, and the 530 fifth wheel coupling is located at the rear of the tractor.

The system 200 further comprises a handling device 501, 501' (hereinafter abbreviated as device 501, 501') with a variable support area for handling containers 205. In particular, the handling performed by the device includes raising, lowering, and holding the container suspended above the ground. By connecting the device to the tractor 510, as will become clear below, the container can be handled, moving it horizontally in space, while the device holds the container suspended in the air.

The device 501, 501' is a device with a variable support area, since it is capable of changing its support area between an operating (or functional) configuration in which a container (or a pair of containers) can be raised/lowered and held in a raised position, and a storage or transportation configuration in which the maximum total support area of the device 501, 501' is reduced compared to the operating configuration.

A variable support area is defined as the ability to vary at least one of its dimensions between height, width, and length. Width and length are perpendicular to each other and lie in a horizontal plane, while height is measured vertically. Additionally, in this discussion, width will be used to refer to a direction of measurement perpendicular to the forward direction of travel of the tractor, when device 501, 501' is aligned with the tractor (as seen in the figures), while length will refer to a direction of measurement parallel to the forward direction of travel of the tractor and perpendicular to the length.

The maximum total support area can be considered as the volume of the smallest parallelepiped that completely contains the device 501, 501'.

The device 501, 501' comprises a frame with a variable support area, also defined as "with variable geometry", designed with the possibility of detachable connection with the tractor 510, namely with the fifth wheel coupling device 530 of the tractor for movement with its help.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame is capable of varying its support area in all three specified directions (height, width, and length). However, it is possible that in a less preferred and unillustrated embodiment, the frame is capable of varying its support area only in the width direction, or in both the width and length direction, but not in the height direction.

Changing the frame support area allows the device 501, 501' to operate between a working configuration, in which it is capable of manipulating the container, i.e., lifting, lowering, and holding it in a suspended state, and a transport or storage configuration, in which the device 501, 501' is adapted for transportation on a bogie of a road train, i.e., on a bogie connected to a tractor. In the transport configuration, the device 501, 501' is intended for manipulating the container.

In the working configuration, the support area of the frame (and the device 501, 501') is maximum, while in the transport or storage configuration it is minimum.

Said variable-footprint frame comprises a first pillar 555, which is vertical, i.e., extends primarily longitudinally along the vertical axis, and is adapted for detachable connection to a tractor. Specifically, device 501, 501' is connected to the tractor solely through the first pillar.

The first post 555 is adapted to be connected, i.e., to be freely connected, to the fifth wheel coupling device 530 of the tractor, so that the first post can rotate relative to the tractor about the vertical axis of rotation R1. Alternatively, the post may comprise a rigidly fixed lower section, i.e., rigidly fixed without residual degrees of freedom, on the fifth wheel coupling device 530, and the remaining part of the first post is connected with the possibility of rotation to said lower section about the vertical axis of rotation R1.

For connection with a fifth wheel coupling, the first post comprises a coupling device located at the lower end 556 of the first post.

Such a coupling device may, for example, be known to those skilled in the art for attaching a bogie to a fifth-wheel coupling device of a tractor and may comprise a pin (not shown) adapted to be inserted into a recess 540 of the fifth-wheel coupling device 530. Obviously, it cannot be ruled out that, as an alternative to the fifth-wheel coupling device, the tractor may comprise a system for ad hoc coupling of the first pillar. In such a case, the tractor may, for example, comprise a vertical pin on which the lower section of the first pillar is seated, so as to realize a rotoidal pair with a vertical axis of rotation R1.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first stand is made telescopic and has the ability to change its longitudinal extension along the vertical direction.

Thus, the first rack comprises a lower section 560, which comprises a lower portion of the first rack, and an upper section 565, which is configured to move relative to the lower section in a vertical direction, for example, by means of a linear drive 570.

The frame with a variable support area comprises a second post 575 (vertical, i.e. developing in the longitudinal direction along the vertical axis), to which the first freely rotating support wheel 580 is freely connected. In practice, the second post rests on the base (only) by means of the first freely rotating wheel, which is connected to the lower end of the second post.

The first freely rotating wheel 580 is rotatably connected to the second post 575, at least relative to the horizontal axis of rotation. It is possible that the first freely rotating wheel 580 may also be rotatably connected to the second post 575 relative to a vertical axis of rotation, for example, coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the post.

The first freely rotating wheel 580 may be at least partially vertically aligned with the second post. Preferably, the second post completely overlaps the first freely rotating wheel in plan.

In the illustrated embodiment, to further reduce the support area, the second pillar comprises a cavity 585, within which, at least partially, the first freely rotating wheel 580 is contained.

For example, the second post may also comprise a drive configured to selectively extend the first freely rotating wheel out of the cavity (so that at least one third of the wheel protrudes) and retract it into the cavity (so that less than one quarter of the wheel protrudes from the cavity), which allows for a further reduction in the support area and at the same time allows for overcoming obstacles when the wheel is extended.

It is possible that the second pillar may contain more than one support wheel, freely pivotally connected to the second pillar.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second column is telescopic and capable of varying its longitudinal extension along the vertical direction. Specifically, the second column may comprise a lower section 590, to which the first freely rotating wheel 580 is directly connected in the manner described above, and an upper section 595, movable relative to the lower section 590 along the vertical axis. For example, the second section may be actuated by a linear actuator 596, as shown in the figures.

The second rack 575 is different and spaced at a non-zero distance from the first rack.

The frame with a variable support area also contains a third post 600 (vertical, i.e. developing in the longitudinal direction along the vertical axis), to which a second freely rotating support wheel 605 is freely connected. In practice, the third post rests on the base (only) by means of the second freely rotating wheel, which is connected to the lower end of the third post.

The second freely rotating wheel is rotatably connected to the third post 600, at least about a horizontal axis of rotation. It is possible that the second freely rotating wheel may also be rotatably connected to the third post 600 about a vertical axis of rotation, for example, coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the post.

The second freely rotating wheel may be at least partially vertically aligned with the third post. Preferably, the third post completely overlaps the second freely rotating wheel in plan.

In the illustrated embodiment, to further reduce the support area, the third pillar comprises a cavity 610, within which, at least partially, a second freely rotating wheel is contained.

For example, the third post may also comprise a drive configured to extend the second freely rotating wheel out of the cavity (so that at least one third of the wheel protrudes) and retract it into the cavity (so that less than one quarter of the wheel protrudes from the cavity), which allows for a further reduction in the support area and at the same time allows for overcoming obstacles when the wheel is extended.

It is possible that the third pillar may contain more than one support wheel, freely pivotally connected to the third pillar.

In the illustrated embodiment, the third column is telescopic and capable of varying its longitudinal extension along the vertical direction. Specifically, the third column may comprise a lower section directly connected to a second freely rotating wheel in the manner described above, and an upper section movable relative to the lower section along a vertical axis. For example, the second section may be actuated by a linear actuator, shown in the figures.

The third rack 600 is different from and spaced at a non-zero distance from both the first rack 555 and the second rack 575.

Preferably, the variable-footprint frame does not contain any other support posts other than the first, second, and third. In other words, the weight of the device 501, 501' and any associated container is distributed across the base, passing only through the first, second, and third posts.

Additionally, during use, the device 501, 501' contacts the base only through the first freely rotating wheel, the second freely rotating wheel and the tractor, when the device 501, 501' is connected to the tractor (alternatively, the device 501, 501' may briefly rest on a stand and/or a support leg with variable extension).

The frame with a variable support area comprises a connecting device connecting the second post 575 and the third post 600 with the first post 555 and made, for example, with the help of drives and rods and/or hinges, with the possibility of moving at least one of the three posts relative to another of the three posts between a first position (in which the device 501, 501' has a given support area in plan), for example, where the support area in plan of the device 501, 501', i.e. the frame with a variable support area, is maximum, and a second position, where the support area in plan of the device 501, 501', i.e. the frame with a variable support area, in said second position is less than the support area in plan of the device 501, 501' in said first position.

It should be noted that the support area in plan is the width and length of the frame as seen from the plan. Alternatively, this support area in plan can be understood as the area of a triangle lying in a horizontal plane, the vertices of which are located at the corresponding posts.

The first position of the connecting device is the position that must be adopted to achieve the working configuration of the device 501, 501' in which it allows the container to be transported, and the second position must be adopted to achieve the transport configuration of the device 501, 501'.

In the first position, the container to be raised or lowered, or which is held in a raised position by the device 501, 501' is placed (directly) between the first post, the second post and the third post.

The direction in which the width of the device 501, 501' is measured can also be defined as the direction of the horizontal distance between the second post 575 and the third post 600 when the connecting device is in the first position.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting device is configured to move at least one of the second and third posts between a first position in which the (minimum and horizontal) distance of the third post from the second post is maximum, and a second position in which said distance is minimum.

When the connecting device is in the first position, the second post and the third post are located at the same distance (horizontally) from the vertical axial plane of the devices 501, 501', which intersects the first post and is located between the second post and the third post.

When moving between the first position and the second position, the distance of the second post from the first post and the distance of the third post from the first post remain unchanged.

In practice, the connecting device is designed to bring the third post and the second post closer to each other and move them further away from each other, for example, by causing at least one of them to rotate relative to a vertical axis of rotation.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting device comprises a first crossbar 620 having a first end 620a connected, for example, without residual degrees of freedom, to the first post 555, that is, to the upper portion (upper section) of the first post, and an opposite second end 620b connected, for example, without residual degrees of freedom, to the third post 600, that is, to the upper portion (upper section) of the third post.

For example, the first crossbar is located horizontally.

The first crossbar 620 is preferably telescopic, allowing for the horizontal distance between its first end 620a and second end 620b to be varied. This allows for the horizontal distance between the first post 555 and the second post 575 to be varied, thereby improving the compactness of the variable-footprint frame. In particular, as will become clear below, the illustrated embodiment, in combination with the first telescopic crossbar, allows for the horizontal distance of the third and second posts relative to the first post to be varied.

Thus, the first crossbar may comprise a first section including a first end 620a and a second section including a second end 620b, which is configured to move relative to the first section along a straight axis using a linear drive 625.

The first crossbar contains only the ends indicated and is directly connected only to the first post and the third post.

To improve the bearing surface area, the first crossbar is shaped such that, in plan, the first section is inclined relative to the second section. For example, the longitudinal axes of these sections intersect and form an obtuse angle (ranging from 90° to 180°) toward the first crossbar. Essentially, the second section develops from the first section in the direction of the second post.

The connecting device also comprises a second crossbar 630, having a first end 630a, rigidly attached (without residual degrees of freedom) to the second post 575, that is, to the upper portion (upper section) of the second post 575, and an opposite second end 630b, pivotally connected between the first crossbar, that is, the second section of the first crossbar, and the first post, relative to the vertical axis of rotation T2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end is pivotally connected to the second section of the first crossbar, which makes it possible to change the horizontal distance of the third and second posts relative to the first post using the telescopic element of the first crossbar.

The second crossbar contains only the specified ends and, for example, is directly connected only to the second post and the first crossbar.

For example, the second crossbar is located horizontally.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second crossbar is preferably non-extensible. However, it is possible that in an alternative embodiment, it could be telescopic, allowing for the horizontal distance between its first end and second end to be varied.

The first and second crossbars are positioned at such a vertical height that they are completely above the container being handled, without interfering with it.

The connecting device further comprises a drive 635, configured to cause the second post to rotate relative to the axis of rotation T2 and relative to the first crossbar, that is, to move the second crossbar 630, to which the second post is rigidly attached, relative to the axis of rotation T2 and relative to the first crossbar.

Rotation of the third post relative to the axis of rotation T2 using drive 635 allows the connecting device to operate between the first and second positions of the connecting device.

For example, the actuator 635 is a linear actuator provided with a first end 635a pivotally connected to one of the sections between the first post 555 and the first crossbar 620, and an opposite second end 635b pivotally connected to one of the sections between the second post 575 and the second crossbar 630.

The drive comprises a first section equipped with a first end and a second section equipped with a second end and movable relative to the first section along a straight axis. Such a straight axis preferably lies on the horizontal axis.

In particular, in the illustrated embodiment, the first end 635a is pivotally connected to the first cross member, and the second end is pivotally connected to the second cross member.

The drive is preferably of the oleopneumatic type.

It is possible that, in an alternative, less preferred, non-illustrated embodiment, the connecting device may comprise a horizontally positioned telescopic crossbar connecting the second post to the first post. This crossbar, by varying its longitudinal extension, allows the first and second positions of the connecting device to be achieved by moving the second and third posts closer together and further apart. This telescopic crossbar will be perpendicular to the vertical axial plane passing through the first post and located between the second and third posts.

A lifting device for lifting the container (relative to the ground, i.e. relative to the vertical height of the wheels) is connected to the frame with a variable support area, i.e. it is designed with the ability to lift, hold the container in a raised and lowered position.

The said lifting device is provided with a first section (directly) connected to the second post, and a second section (directly) connected to the third post.

Each of the said sections is provided with a connecting device or a lower support of the container, designed with the possibility of operating at least in a vertical direction for lifting, holding in a raised state and lowering the container.

A lifting device for lifting the container (relative to the ground, i.e. relative to the vertical height of the wheels) is connected to the frame with a variable support area, i.e. it is designed with the ability to lift, hold the container in a raised and lowered position.

The said lifting device is provided with a first section (directly) connected to the second post, and a second section (directly) connected to the third post.

Each of the said sections is provided with a connecting device or a lower support of the container, designed with the possibility of operating at least in a vertical direction for lifting, holding in a raised state and lowering the container.

The lifting device comprises a first lever 640, connected to a second post 575 and extending transversely therefrom in a longitudinal (horizontal) direction, and a second lever 645, connected to a third post and extending transversely therefrom in a longitudinal (horizontal) direction. Specifically, the levers are connected to the corresponding post at a corresponding central section such that the longitudinal ends of the levers are spaced apart from the corresponding post.

At least one of these levers is pivotally connected to the corresponding stand to which it is connected, relative to the vertical axis of rotation T3.

For example, the second lever is pivotally connected to the third post along the vertical axis of the T3 hinge.

The first lever 640 and the second lever 645 are, for example, straight, preferably they are made in the form of straight rods located on a horizontal longitudinal axis.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting device may comprise a drive 646 configured to cause the second lever to rotate relative to the corresponding vertical axis of the hinge T3.

As an alternative to drives, a mechanism for locking and unlocking the rotation of the levers relative to the racks can be used.

Additionally, the connecting device comprises a corresponding gripping member 650, 670 of the container, for example, a hook integrated with a corresponding cable 655, 675, 690, 700, at least partially wound on a corresponding wheel 660, 680, 695, 705, pivotally connected ("freely") to a corresponding end 640a, 640b, 645a, 645b of the lever 640, 645, distal from the corresponding post 575, 600, to which the lever is connected, and controlled by means of a corresponding drive device 665, 695.

The unillustrated parts connected to the second lever are identical to the corresponding parts connected to the first lever.

Alternatively, the drive devices may comprise linear actuators with one end connected (e.g., rigidly or pivotally) to a corresponding lever and the opposite end connected (e.g., rigidly or pivotally) to a corresponding gripping element. In such an embodiment, the gripping element may be a forklift fork or a hook.

In a non-illustrated embodiment, the lifting device may comprise at least two pairs of forks, one pair rigidly connected to the top section of the second post, and the other pair rigidly connected to the top section of the third post. Thus, the telescopic posts can be used to lift the container by pushing it from below, after the forks are positioned underneath.

The device 501, 501' comprises a pump (not shown) driven by a motor (not shown) and operatively connected to a connecting device for moving the first post between a first and a second position, i.e. for supplying power to the drive of the connecting device.

As you might guess, such a pump can also be used to power other drives that may be present when certain elements are telescopic, such as racks.

These pumps and motor are smaller in size than prior art devices because they only need to power the variable geometry frame drives and do not also need to drive the wheels to move the frame.

The said pump and the said motor are connected to one of the three posts or to a connecting device.

The working configuration of the device 501, 501', i.e. the frame with a variable support area, occurs when the connecting device is in its first position and all telescopic posts are in the position of maximum longitudinal extension.

In the illustrated embodiment, the operating configuration occurs when the connecting device is in the first position, all telescopic pillars are in the position of maximum longitudinal extension, the freely rotating wheels protrude at least one third from the cavity, and the spacer strips are located between the levers of the lifting device.

The working configuration coincides with the first position of the connecting device only in a less preferred embodiment, in which the racks are not telescopic, the wheels are not located in cavities made in the racks, and are movable relative to these cavities, and the lifting device contains forks that can move vertically along the racks, instead of articulated levers.

The transport configuration of the device 501, 501', i.e. the frame with a variable support area, occurs when the connecting device is in its second position, and all telescopic posts are in the position of minimum longitudinal extension.

In the illustrated embodiment, the transport configuration occurs when the connecting device is in the second position, all telescopic racks are in the position of minimum longitudinal extension, the freely rotating wheels protrude less than a quarter of the cavity, while the first crossbar is in the position of minimum longitudinal extension, and the spacer bars are not located between the levers of the lifting device.

The working configuration coincides with the second position of the connecting device only in a less preferred embodiment, in which the posts are not telescopic, the first crossbar is not telescopic, the wheels are not located in cavities made in the posts and are movable relative to these cavities, and the lifting device contains forks that can move vertically along the posts.

The illustrated device 501, 501' can be connected to any tractor, for example a road train, if it is equipped with a fifth wheel coupling. Alternatively, it is possible to envisage the use of a special tractor equipped with a fifth wheel coupling (or, alternatively, a device for fastening the device, containing a pin or a round saddle, which allow the device 501, 501' to be remotely connected to the special tractor, forming a rotoidal pair with a vertical axis of rotation with the first post of the device 501, 501'. For example, such a tractor can be an adapted forklift or other self-propelled industrial vehicle.

To facilitate loading of the device onto a trolley for its transportation, when the device is in the transportation configuration, the system may comprise a stand 710 having a pair of horizontal telescopic upper crossbars that are located next to and parallel to each other and are configured to extend and retract during operation of the connecting device between the first and second position by partially supporting the first and second crossbars and following them in a movement leading to a transition between the second and first position.

Fig. 17 and 18 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the system 500' according to the invention, in which the device 501' differs from the device 501 only in that the second crossbar is pivotally connected to the first crossbar by means of an appendage protruding from the first crossbar along the horizontal direction and transversely to the longitudinal axis of the first crossbar, i.e. the first section of the first crossbar. In particular, this appendage has an elongation in the direction in which it protrudes from the first crossbar, which is greater than the maximum width of the first crossbar, measured along the direction transverse to the longitudinal axis.

Fig. 19 illustrates yet another embodiment of the system, designated as 500'', which differs from the system 500' in that it contains a device 501'', in which the second end 620b of the first crossbar can be pivotally connected to the third post, that is, to the upper portion (upper section) of the third post, relative to the vertical axis of rotation T4, and where the first end 630a of the second crossbar can be pivotally connected to the second post, that is, to the upper portion (upper section) of the second post, relative to the vertical axis of rotation T5.

In such a case, the device may comprise a first locking mechanism (not shown) that can operate at least between a first position in which it allows the third post to rotate relative to the first crossbar, and a second position in which it blocks the relative rotation between the first crossbar and the third post.

The said mechanism may comprise a drive (not shown) configured to rotate the third post relative to the said axis of rotation T4, i.e. to move the third post relative to the first crossbar, and to selectively lock the relative angular position between the said third post and the first crossbar.

The device may also comprise a second locking mechanism (not shown) that can operate between at least a first position in which it allows the third post to rotate relative to the first crossbar, and a second position in which it locks the relative rotation between the second crossbar and the second post.

The said mechanism may comprise a drive (not shown) configured to rotate the second post relative to the said axis of rotation T5, i.e. to move the second post relative to the second crossbar, and to selectively lock the relative angular position between the said second post and the second crossbar.

It is possible that in an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, the posts are connected to the crossbars, as in embodiments 500 and 500', but the support wheels can also be pivotally connected to the corresponding posts relative to the vertical axes of rotation.

The operation of the system 500, 500', 500'', according to the invention, is as follows.

The device is transported in a transport configuration, located on a trolley pulled by a tractor, which delivers it to where it is to be used for handling containers (see Figs. 4 and 5).

Upon reaching the destination, the device is transferred from the transport configuration to the working configuration, supporting it during this transition, for example, by placing it on a special stand 710, or using a forklift, or lifting it with a crane.

First, when switching from the transport configuration to the operating configuration, the coupling device drive, which rotates the second crossbar 630 about the vertical rotation axis T2, is activated to move it from the second position to the first position. After this, the first post 555 can be connected to the fifth wheel coupling 530 of the tractor.

If the uprights are telescopic, as illustrated, then the uprights and possibly the first crossbar extend.

In the illustrated case, when the lifting device comprises levers 640, 645, from the position visible in the plan in Fig. 6, they must be rotated relative to their respective vertical hinge axes, for example, with the help of the provided drives, so that, having reached the first position of the connecting device, the levers are located with longitudinal axes parallel to each other and parallel to the vertical central plane of the device, equidistant from the third and second posts and intersecting the first post.

When the device is in the working configuration and connected to the tractor, the device is moved by the tractor to the container that needs to be lifted, positioning it so that the container is located between the first post, the second post and the third post.

In the illustrated embodiment, the container is also located in plan between the first lever and the second lever, which wrap around the container from the side.

At this point, the container is grabbed by the gripping devices of the lifting device and lifted so that it does not touch the ground or the trolley on which the container is located.

While the device holds the container in a raised position, the tractor moves the device to the location where the container is to be unloaded, i.e., lowered. For example, thanks to the first telescopic post, the first crossbar can be positioned at a higher height than the top of the tractor, so that the tractor can be oriented so that the second and third posts, and therefore the lifting device, are located in front of the cabin (as illustrated in Fig. 3).

Once the device has completed its work, it can be returned from the transport configuration, stored at the work site, or moved to another location (work or storage).

In the case of the illustrated system, the first and second crossbars can be placed on a stand 710, which, thanks to its telescopic crossbars, is able to support the crossbars from below when they move from the first position to the second position.

If the posts and the first crossbar are telescopic, as in the illustrated case, they are also moved to the position of minimum longitudinal extension.

The second lever 645, when the connecting device moves from the first position to the second, is rotated so that it does not touch the first lever, which, being connected to the second post, rotates together with it around the vertical axis of rotation T2, as a result of which its first end 645a would soon touch the second lever if it were not rotated around the axis T3, for example, so that the second lever remains parallel to the first lever while the first lever rotates around the vertical axis of rotation T2.

In all the embodiments described above, the devices 201, 501, 501', 501'' comprise at least one pair of posts.

The indicated racks 255, 275, 300, 555, 575, 600 from a pair of racks develop along the corresponding direction of development (A).

The indicated direction of development is vertical, i.e. along the indicated vertical axis.

In the case of the embodiments illustrated in the present patent, the device 201, 501, 501', 501'' always comprises at least (and preferably) three posts, i.e. a first post 255, 555, a second post 275, 575 and a third post 300, 600.

Three pillars develop in the longitudinal direction along the corresponding direction of development A.

As described above, the device 201, 501, 501', 501'' also comprises at least one crossbar 320, 330, 620, 630. According to the invention, said crossbars 320, 330, 620, 630 are intended to connect the posts of (at least one) pair of crane posts.

The said (at least one) crossbar develops along the (corresponding) direction of development (B), for example horizontal, transverse in relation to the direction of development (A) of the crane legs.

In all the above-described embodiments of the device 201, 501, 501', 501'', at least one between the post (at least one) of a pair of posts and the crossbar (designed with the possibility of connecting said posts of at least one pair of posts) is telescopic.

Preferably, all telescopic pillars consist of at least one male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 560, 590 and one female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 595.

It is further preferred that all telescopic crossbars comprise at least one male section 820, 320a, 330a, 620a and one female section 830, 320b, 330b, 620b.

In this way, a single-stage telescopic stand is produced; it is possible that by adding an enclosing section to the enclosing section, a two-stage telescopic stand or crossbar can be obtained.

The said male and female sections, in the case of uprights, correspond respectively to the lower section 260, 290, 300a, 560, 590 and the upper section 265, 295, 300b, 595 described above. In the case of crossbars, the male section corresponds to the first ends 320a, 330a, 620a, and the female section corresponds to the second ends 320b, 330b, 620b.

In particular, with reference to Fig. 20-25, the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a and the female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b are connected in a sliding manner so that they can be selectively moved in mutual approach/distance along the corresponding direction of development (A, B) of the rack or crossbar.

The specified covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a comprises a projection 900, i.e. an outwardly protruding appendage or recess 905.

The said projections 900 or recesses 905 continue in the longitudinal direction along the corresponding directions of development (A, B) of the posts and/or crossbars.

More precisely, said projection 900 continues in the longitudinal direction along the entire sliding stroke between the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a and the female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b of the posts and/or crossbars.

Possibly, said projection 900 or recess 905 of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a continues along the entire length of the post or crossbar along the corresponding direction of development (A, B).

Said protrusion 900 or recess 905 then continues in a direction perpendicular to the direction of development (A, B). More precisely, the protrusion 900 or recess 905 continues along said direction by a non-zero amount.

In more detail, the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a comprises, along its entire section connected to the female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b, a section, in accordance with the section plane perpendicular to the direction of development of the posts and/or crossbars, provided with a base section and an auxiliary section.

The specified base section has a convex polygonal shape, for example, a parallelogram.

If the covered section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a has a projection 900 and not a recess 905, then the auxiliary portion projects outward with respect to the base portion.

For example, the auxiliary section protrudes relative to the base section by a non-zero amount.

If, on the other hand, the male section 820 comprises a recess 905, then the auxiliary portion is a cavity facing the inside of the base portion.

The said enclosing section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b contains a section mated 901, 906 with the said protrusion 900 or recess 905 of the enclosing section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a, in order to form a prismatic connection with it, defining a sliding axis parallel to the corresponding direction of development (A, B) of the rack or crossbar.

If the male section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a has a projection 900, then the mating portion 901 of the female section 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b also has a projection external to the male section.

If, on the other hand, the male section 820 has a recess 905, then the mating portion 906 of the female section 830 also has a recess set to measure in the recess 905.

The said mating section 901, 906 continues in the longitudinal direction along the said sliding axis throughout the entire sliding stroke between the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a and the female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b.

Possibly, said mating section 901, 906 continues along the entire extension of said enclosing section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b of the post or crossbar along the corresponding direction of development (A, B).

The enclosing section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b may also comprise a pair of stiffening flanges 908 located on opposite sides of the mating section 901, 906 and connected to it in the transverse direction (A, B) of the crossmember development.

The enclosing section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b comprises, along the said sections 901,906, conjugated with the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a, a section (in accordance with the above-mentioned section plane, perpendicular to the corresponding direction of development (A, B) of the posts and/or crossbars), having an inner perimeter that surrounds for measurement the outer perimeter of the (above-mentioned) section of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a

If the covered section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a comprises a projection 900, said outer perimeter comprises a first section 910 and an opposite second section 915.

The said first section 910 and the second section 915 of the covered section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a are straight and parallel to each other.

They also have the same length, and each of them is provided with a corresponding first longitudinal end 910a, 915a and a second longitudinal end 910b, 915b.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains a third section 920.

The said third section 920 connects the first longitudinal ends 910a, 915a of the first section 910 and the second section 915.

Said third section 920 is straight and therefore perpendicular to said first section 910 and second section 915.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains a fourth section 925.

The said fourth section 925 is straight and develops from the second longitudinal end 910b of the first section 910, perpendicular to it (and parallel to the third section 920) and in the direction of approaching the second section 915.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains a fifth section 930.

The said fifth section 930 is straight and develops from the longitudinal end of the fourth section 925 opposite the first section 910, perpendicular to the fourth section 925 (and parallel to the first section 910 and the second section 915) in the direction of moving away from the third section 920.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains the sixth section 935.

This sixth section 935 is straight and develops from the longitudinal end of the fifth section 930 opposite the fourth section 925.

It also develops perpendicular to the fifth section 930 (and parallel to the third section 920 and the fourth section 935) and in the direction of approaching the second section 915.

In this case, the sixth section 935 is located outside the base section of the covered section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains the seventh section 940.

The seventh section 940 develops from the longitudinal end of the sixth section 935 opposite the fifth section 930.

It also develops perpendicular to the sixth section 935 (and thus parallel to the first section 910, the second section 915 and the fifth section 930) and in the direction of approaching the third section 920 until it intersects with an imaginary line connecting the second longitudinal end 910b of the first section 910 with the second longitudinal end 915b of the second section 915.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains the eighth section 945.

The said eighth section 945 is straight and develops from the longitudinal end of the seventh section 940 opposite the sixth section 935.

It also develops perpendicular to the seventh section 940 (and thus parallel to the third section 920, the fourth section 925 and the sixth section 935) and connects (the said longitudinal end) of the seventh section 940 with the second longitudinal end 915b of the second section 915.

The fifth section, the sixth section and the seventh section form the said projection 900 of the enclosed section.

If, on the other hand, the enclosed section 820 comprises a recess 905, then said outer perimeter comprises a first section 910 and an opposite second section 915.

The said first section 910 and the second section 915 of the covered section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a are straight and parallel to each other.

They also have the same length, and each of them is provided with a corresponding first longitudinal end 910a, 915a and a second longitudinal end 910b, 915b.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains a third section 920.

The said third section 920 connects the first longitudinal ends 910a, 915a of the first section 910 and the second section 915.

Said third section 920 is straight and therefore perpendicular to said first section 910 and second section 915.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains a fourth section 925.

The said fourth section 925 is straight and develops from the second longitudinal end 910b of the first section 910, perpendicular to it (and parallel to the third section 920) and in the direction of approaching the second section 915.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains the fifth section 931.

The said fifth section 931 is straight and develops from the longitudinal end of the fourth section 925 opposite the first section 910, perpendicular to the fourth section 925 (and parallel to the first section 910 and the second section 915) in the direction of approaching the third section 920.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains the sixth section 936.

This sixth section 936 is straight and develops from the longitudinal end of the fifth section 931 opposite the fourth section 925.

It also develops perpendicular to the fifth section 931 (and parallel to the third section 920 and the fourth section 925) and in the direction of approaching the second section 915.

In this case, the sixth section 936 is located inside with respect to the base portion of the covered section 820.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains the seventh section 941.

The said seventh section 941 develops from the longitudinal end of the sixth section 935 opposite the fifth section 931.

It also develops perpendicular to the sixth section 936 (and thus parallel to the first section 910, the second section 915 and the fifth section 931) and in a direction away from the third section 920 until it intersects with the said imaginary line.

The outer perimeter of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a contains the eighth section 945.

The said eighth section 945 is straight and develops from the longitudinal end of the seventh section 941 opposite the sixth section 936.

It also develops perpendicular to the seventh section 940, 941 (and thus parallel to the third section 920, the fourth section 925 and the sixth section 936) and connects (the said longitudinal end) of the seventh section 941 with the second longitudinal end 915b of the second section 915.

The fifth section, the sixth section and the seventh section form the said recess 905 of the enclosed section.

The device 201, 501, 501', 501'' according to the invention additionally comprises a linear drive 270, 296, 315, 570, 596, configured to move the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a and the female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b (of at least one) of the rack and/or crossbar of the device during mutual approach/retreat along the corresponding direction of development (A, B).

The said linear drive 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 continues in the longitudinal direction along the corresponding direction of development (A, B).

For this purpose, the linear drive 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 is provided with a cylinder that makes accessible the first axial end of the drive, connected to the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a

It is then provided with a piston sliding inside a cylinder, to which a rod is slidably connected with respect to the cylinder, provided with a free end protruding outward from the cylinder, which makes available the second axial end of the drive, connected to the enclosing section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 595, 620b of the telescopic stand or crossbar of the device.

The said linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 of the device is at least partially placed in the protrusion 900 or recess 905 of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a

More precisely, the projection 900 or the recess 905 of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a continues along the above-mentioned direction transverse to the direction of development (A, B) of the posts or crossbars by a sufficient amount so that the said linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 can be at least partially accommodated in the said projection 900 or the recess 905 of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a

More precisely, the projection 900 of the male section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a continues along the specified direction in such a way that the cross-section of the linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 in the cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the above-mentioned corresponding direction of development (A, B) is at least partially located inside the sectional portion of the male section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a located between the above-mentioned fifth section 930, sixth section 935, seventh section 940 and an imaginary line connecting the longitudinal end of the fourth section 925, from which the fifth section 930 develops, with the longitudinal end of the seventh section 940, from which the eighth section 945 develops.

In addition, the recess 905 of the male section 820 continues along the said direction in such a way that the above-mentioned section of the linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596, according to the section plane perpendicular to the above-mentioned corresponding direction of development (A, B), is at least partially located inside the section portion of the male section 820 contained between the above-mentioned fifth section 931, sixth section 936, seventh section 941 and the imaginary line connecting the longitudinal end of the fourth section 925, from which the fifth section 931 develops, with the longitudinal end of the seventh section 941, from which the eighth section 945 develops.

Preferably, said linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 is completely housed in the protrusion 900 or recess 905 of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a.

In this case, therefore, the above-mentioned section of the drive 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 relative to the said section plane is completely located inside the above-described section of the covered section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a, contained between the fifth section 930, 931, the sixth section 935, 936, the seventh section 940, 941 and the said imaginary line.

In addition to the internal posts, as in the embodiments illustrated up to Fig. 25, there is also an alternative design for accommodating the freely rotating wheels, which is applicable to all embodiments illustrated in Figs. 1-25. With particular reference to Figs. 26-29, this other design provides that the first freely rotating wheel 580 and the second freely rotating wheel 605 are rotatably connected to the male sections 560, 590, respectively, of the second post 575 and the third post 600, which are telescopic.

It is preferable, moreover, that they are connected to the covered sections 560,590 in such a way that each of them is completely in an external position and adjacent (from the point of view of the plan) to the corresponding posts.

More precisely, as can be seen in Fig. 28, each freely rotating wheel 580, 605 is connected to the corresponding rack in such a way that it is located next to it in plan.

More precisely, each wheel 580, 605 is located next to the corresponding rack, without protruding outward, i.e. laterally, in relation to the (lateral) support area of the same (and device).

Preferably, each freely rotating wheel 580, 605 is connected to the male section 560, 590 of the corresponding rack in such a way that the upper portion 950 of the wheel 580, 605 itself is located at a vertical height equal to or (more preferably) greater than the vertical height of the lower end 955 of the male section 560, 590.

Preferably, in addition, the lower end 955 of the male section 560, 590 of each rack is located at a height (strictly) higher than the lower portion 960 of the wheel 580, 605, wherein said lower portion 960 of the wheel 580, 605 is adapted to contact with the base.

Thus, the lower end 955 of the male section 560, 590 of the rack is preferably located at a vertical height contained between the vertical height of the upper portion 950 of the wheel 580, 605 and the vertical height of the lower portion 960 of the wheel 580, 605 (i.e. on the base).

In more detail, each freely rotating wheel 580,605 is rotatably connected to the covered section 560, 590 of the corresponding rack relative to the horizontal axis of rotation C.

According to a preferred and advantageous aspect, said axis of rotation C of the wheel 580, 605 is located at the lower end portion of the above-mentioned enclosed section 560, 590.

Preferably, each freely rotating wheel 580, 605 is thus adapted to be connected to the male section 560, 590 of the corresponding stand in accordance with the above-mentioned characteristics and in such a way that the axis of rotation C of the wheel 580, 605 itself is located on the above-mentioned lower end portion of the male section 560, 590.

Even more preferably, the wheel 580, 605 is adapted to be connected to the male section 560, 590 of the corresponding rack in such a way that its axis of rotation C is located at a vertical height equal to or greater than the vertical height of the lower end 955 of the male section 560, 590.

Thus, the lower end 955 of the male section 560, 590 of the rack is preferably located at a vertical height contained between the vertical height of the axis of rotation C of the wheel 580, 605 and the vertical height of the lower portion 960 of the wheel 580, 605 (i.e. on the base).

Thus, the device 501, 501', 501'' is designed with the possibility of contact with the base only and exclusively through (the lower section 960) the wheels 580, 605.

More specifically, the axis of rotation C, for example, in turn, is completely external to the rack, i.e. it never intersects it.

That is, for example, each axis of rotation C is perpendicular to the underlying plane of the directions of vertical development A, B of the racks.

Additionally, the enclosing section 595 of each of the pillars is preferably movable between a first position (seen in Fig. 26), in which its lower end 965 is located at a vertical height greater than the vertical height of the upper portion 950 of the wheel, and a second position, in which said lower end 965 of the enclosing section 595 is located at a vertical height substantially equal to or less than the aforementioned vertical height of the upper portion 950 of the wheel 580, 605.

Preferably, as can be seen in Fig. 27, in said second position, the lower end 965 of the enclosing section 595 is located at a vertical height located between the above-mentioned vertical height of the upper portion 950 of the wheel 580, 605 and the vertical height of the axis of rotation C of the wheel 580, 605.

Even more preferably, in the second position, the lower end 965 is located at a vertical height located between the above-mentioned vertical height of the axis of rotation C of the wheel 580, 605 and the vertical height of the lower portion 960 of the wheel 580, 605 (i.e. the base).

Each wheel 580, 605 is preferably connected to the corresponding rack by means of at least one connecting element 970, such as a flange.

Each wheel 580, 605 is preferably connected to the corresponding rack by means of a pair of connecting elements 970, for example two flanges, which are connected to the corresponding wheel 580, 605 at their axially opposite ends.

Each connecting element 970 preferably has a first end portion 975 adapted to be attached without residual degrees of freedom to the male section 560, 590 of the corresponding rack.

It is then preferably provided with a second end section 980 adapted for rotatably connecting to the wheel 580, 605 on its axis of rotation C.

In some particularly preferred embodiments of the invention, it is also possible that each outer free-rotating wheel 580, 605 is a pair of dual free-rotating wheels.

As an alternative to the embodiments described above, in which the drive device comprises a corresponding cable 355, 375, 655, 675, partially wound on a corresponding freely rotating wheel 360, 380, 660, 680 (pivot-connected to one end of the lever distal from the post) and moved by a corresponding drive 365, 385, 665, 695 (for example, linear), another embodiment of the drive device of the gripping member may be provided, in which there is no freely rotating wheel, but only a drive 985, a cable (or chain) and a gripping member. This embodiment of the drive device is applicable to all described embodiments of the lifting apparatus, i.e. the lifting device.

The drive device may comprise one lever 640, 645, as illustrated in the embodiments of Figs. 10-27, or a pair of levers 340, 345 for each rack, pivotally connected to the corresponding rack, as illustrated in Figs. 1-9 and 29.

Specifically, the drive device comprises four actuators, each adapted to move a corresponding gripping element. Furthermore, each actuator is connected to a corresponding lever 340, 345 of the drive device.

Each of said actuators 985, for example of a linear type, is preferably adapted for pivot connection with at least one axis of rotation D (horizontal) at one end of the corresponding lever distal from the corresponding post.

More precisely, the said drive is adapted for pivot connection with the end of the lever opposite the end by which the lever is pivotally connected to the corresponding rack.

Preferably, the actuator 985 may comprise a first section 990, which is adapted for pivotally connecting (relative to at least the said axis of rotation) at its first longitudinal end to (the distal end from the post) the corresponding lever. Alternatively, the first section may be connected via a ball joint. Preferably, the hinge or ball joint are the only degrees of freedom by which the entire actuator is connected to the corresponding lever.

The drive 985 may also comprise a second section 995 which is movably and slidably connected to the first section 990 (relative to the straight sliding axis).

Said second portion 995, for example, is preferably connected to the first portion 990 in such a way that it at least partially slides within it.

Preferably, it is also connected to the first section 990 in such a way that it at least partially extends from its second longitudinal end, which is located opposite the first end (pivot-connected to the lever).

Therefore, the actuator is, for example, a double-acting hydraulic cylinder with a piston rod passing through only one axial end of the cylinder.

The said first portion 990 of the drive 985 may be (and preferably is), for example, a cylinder of a hydraulic cylinder, and the said second portion 995 may be (and preferably is), for example, a rod of a hydraulic cylinder.

Therefore, such a rod is preferably adapted to be slidably connected to the first section 990, i.e. preferably to the hydraulic cylinder, of the drive 985 so as to at least partially slide therein.

The second section 995 is also preferably connected at its free longitudinal end, distal from the first end of the first section 990, to an inextensible cable.

This cable is also connected, for example by a hinge, to a gripping member such as a hook.

It is possible that in alternative and preferred embodiments of the invention, the second portion of the drive 985 is connected to a ring chain rather than to an inextensible cable.

The longitudinal length of the drive is greater than the extended length of the cable or chain, specifically at least twice the extended length of the cable or chain. Thus, the flexible element, i.e., the cable or chain, is short, reducing container vibration during transport.

This drive device, illustrated in Fig. 29, enables the first portion of the lifting or lowering operation of the container to be lifted to be performed by moving the second portion of each drive in the direction of the lever to which it is pivotally connected. The remaining portion of the operation (lifting or lowering) is then performed by the telescopic supports.

Thus, the drive 985 is configured to change the position of the inextensible cable and the gripping member depending on the size of the container 205 being lifted. This change in the above-mentioned position occurs due to the movement of the second section 995 of the drive 985 in the direction of approaching/moving away from the first section 990.

It should be noted that the drive 985 is designed exclusively with the possibility of moving (the second section 995 when approaching/moving away from the first section 990 for moving) the cable (or chain) and the corresponding gripping member depending on the size of the container 205, and that it does not play any role in lifting the container 205 itself from the surface on which it is located (this role is entirely assigned to the movement of the enclosing section of the corresponding rack in relation to the enclosing section along the direction of development of the rack itself).

The invention thus conceived admits of several modifications and variations, all of which are within the scope of the concept of the invention.

Moreover, all parts can be replaced with other technically equivalent elements.

In practice, the materials used, as well as the conventional shapes and sizes, may be any in accordance with the requirements, without going beyond the scope of protection of the following invention formula.

Claims (16)

1. A handling device with a variable support area (501, 501', 501'') for handling containers (105), comprising: - a first post (555) configured to be connected to a fifth wheel coupling (530) of a tractor (510), - a second stand (575), to which the first freely rotating support wheel (580) is freely connected, - a third stand (600), to which a second freely rotating support wheel (605) is freely connected, - lifting device (640, 645, 650, 655, 660, 665, 670, 675, 680, 685) for lifting the container (105), - a connecting device (620, 630, 635) that connects the second post (575) and the third post (600) to the first post (555) and is configured to move at least one of the three posts relative to another of the three posts between a first position and a second position, wherein the support area in plan of the device in said second position is smaller than the support area in plan of the device in said first position, wherein the third post (600) and the second post (575) are of a telescopic type, and wherein the first freely rotating wheel (580) and the second freely rotating wheel (605) of the device are connected with the possibility of rotation to the covered section (590), respectively, of the second post (575) and the third post (600), which are telescopic and are completely in an external position and adjacent to the corresponding post, wherein the enclosing section (595) of each rack is movable between a first position in which its lower end (965) is located at a vertical height greater than the vertical height of the upper portion (950) of the wheel (580, 605), and a second position in which the lower end (965) of the enclosing section (595) is located at a vertical height less than the vertical height of the upper portion (950) of the wheel (580, 605). 2. The device (501, 501', 501'') according to claim 1, in which each wheel (580, 605) is connected to the male section (590) of the corresponding rack in such a way that the upper portion (950) of the wheel (580, 605) is located at a vertical height equal to or greater than the vertical height of the lower end (955) of the male section (590). 3. The device (501, 501', 501'') according to claim 1, in which each wheel (580, 605) is rotatably connected to the male section (590) of the corresponding stand relative to the horizontal axis of rotation (C) at the lower end section of said male section. 4. The device (501, 501', 501'') according to any one of claims 1-3, in which each wheel (580, 605) is connected to the male section (590) of the corresponding stand in such a way that the axis of rotation (C) is located at a vertical height equal to or greater than the vertical height of the lower end (955) of the male section (590). 5. The device (501, 501', 501'') according to claim 1, in which the connecting device is configured to move at least one of the second post (575) and the third post (600) between a first position in which the distance of the third post (600) from the second post (575) is maximum, and a second position in which said distance is minimum. 6. The device (501, 501', 501'') according to claim 5, wherein the connecting device comprises: - a first crossbar (620) provided with a first end (620a) connected to the second post (555) and a second end (620b) connected to the third post (600), - a second crossbar (630) provided with a first end (630a) rigidly attached to the second post (575) and a second end (630b) pivotally connected to the first post (555), and a first crossbar (620) relative to the vertical axis of rotation (T2), - a drive (635) configured to move the second post (575) during rotation relative to the specified vertical axis of rotation (T2).