Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus for lifting and transporting a load according
to the preamble of claim 1. Such an apparatus is disclosed by e.g.
EP2080732A1.
Background Art
[0002] There are prior art apparatuses for lifting and transporting a load, in particular
in the form of an ISO container, which comprise a supporting frame, means or wheels
for moving the apparatus relative to the ground, means for lifting the load comprising
a respective mast and means for gripping the load, able to move along the mast.
[0003] Moreover, in the prior art apparatuses, the apparatus comprises traction or movement
driving means, which may be in the form of a respective electric motor, or in the
form of a corresponding internal combustion engine.
[0004] Furthermore, in the prior art apparatuses, the means for driving lifting of the load,
or the means for gripping the load itself, are in the form of corresponding hydraulic
means, usually in the form of a respective first and second hydraulic cylinder.
[0005] In particular, in the field of apparatuses for lifting and transporting a load, or
an ISO container, of the type referred to above, the need is felt for maximum savings
in the energy used for apparatus propulsion.
Disclosure of the Invention
[0006] This invention proposes a novel solution, alternative to the solutions known up to
now, and which may meet the above-mentioned need or overcome the disadvantages of
the prior art.
[0007] Therefore, an apparatus for lifting and transporting a load is provided, according
to claim 1.
[0008] In this way, there is an advantageous recovery of energy, in particular which can
then be used for apparatus propulsion.
[0009] In particular, in this way it is possible to obtain an apparatus which operates by
using less energy for its propulsion.
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0010] This and other innovative aspects are set out in the appended claims and the technical
features and advantages are apparent from the detailed description which follows of
non-limiting example embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying
drawings, in which:
- Figure 1A is a schematic side view of a first preferred embodiment of an apparatus
according to this invention in a load lifted condition with the extendable part of
the mast fully extended upwards;
- Figure 1B shows an enlarged view of a detail from Figure 1A and relative to the upper
part of the lifting mast;
- Figure 1C shows an enlarged view of a detail from Figure 1A and relative to the upper
zone of the lower part of the apparatus lifting mast;
- Figure 2A is a cross-section of the first preferred embodiment of the apparatus, illustrating,
in particular, the mast and the connection between the traction or movement driving
electric motors and the apparatus front wheels;
- Figure 2B is an enlarged view of a detail from Figure 2A and relative to the connection
between the traction or movement driving electric motor and the hub of the apparatus
front wheels;
- Figure 3A is a schematic side view of the first preferred embodiment of an apparatus
in a loading condition and with the extendable part of the mast lowered;
- Figure 3B is an enlarged view of a detail from Figure 3A relative to the lower zone
of the lifting mast, showing the motor which drives lifting;
- Figure 3C is an enlarged view of a detail from Figure 3A relative to the upper part
of the lifting mast in the retracted or lowered condition;
- Figure 4 is a schematic view of the transmission means of the means for driving lifting,
in particular showing the transmission means between the motors and the extendable
part of the lifting mast;
- Figure 5 is a block diagram relative to the means for driving traction and lifting
of the first preferred embodiment of the apparatus;
- Figure 6 is a schematic side view of a second preferred embodiment of an apparatus
according to this invention in a load lifted condition with the extendable part of
the mast fully extended upwards;
- Figure 7 is a schematic side view of the second preferred embodiment of an apparatus
in a loading condition and with the extendable part of the mast lowered;
- Figure 8 is a cross-section of the second preferred embodiment of the apparatus showing
the mast in the lifted condition;
- Figure 9 is a block diagram relative to the means for driving traction and lifting
of the second preferred embodiment of the apparatus.
Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments of the Invention
[0011] The accompanying drawings illustrate a preferred embodiment 10 of an apparatus for
lifting and transporting a load, in particular for lifting and transporting an ISO
container 11.
[0012] As illustrated, the apparatus comprises a supporting frame 12, in particular supporting
a driver's cab 14 designed to accommodate a respective operator, means 16, 18 for
moving the apparatus relative to the ground, in particular in the form of a first
and a second front wheel 16, 16, which, as can be clearly inferred from Figure 2A,
each comprise coupled wheels 16', 16', and a first and a second rear wheel 18, 18.
[0013] The frame 14 also supports means 20 for lifting the load, which comprise a load-bearing
structure, formed by a corresponding mast, comprising a first part 20a of the mast
which rises upwards and is connected to the frame 12, in particular to the front of
the frame, and a second part 20b of the mast 20, which is vertically extendable relative
to the first part 20a and allows the apparatus to reach a considerable lifting height.
[0014] As illustrated, the load-bearing structure or mast of the lifting means therefore
comprises a first part 20a and a second part 20b which are substantially of the same
length.
[0015] As may be inferred in particular from Figures 1A, 2A and 3A, the second part 20b
of the mast can slide, thanks to corresponding rollers housed in respective side guides
of the lower mast 20a, relative to the first, or fixed, part 20a of the mast 20a,
moving telescopically relative to the latter.
[0016] The apparatus also comprises means 22 for gripping the load, which are supported
by the mast 20 and can move along the mast 20, being placed in respective operating
positions, between a maximum lifting position, in which the second part 20b of the
mast is fully extended relative to the first part 20a of the mast (as shown in Figure
1A), and a maximum lowering position, in which the gripping means are at or close
to the ground and the extendable second part 20b of the mast is retracted relative
to the first, fixed part 20a of the mast, as illustrated in Figure 3A.
[0017] As illustrated, each part of the mast has respective longitudinal members 20', 20'
and corresponding crosspieces which are labelled 20" connecting to the longitudinal
members 20', in Figure 2A. As illustrated, the longitudinal members 20' of the second
part 20b of the mast can slide along and outside the longitudinal members 20' of the
first part 20a of the mast, whose lower end is fixed to the apparatus frame 12.
[0018] The apparatus 10 also comprises traction or movement driving means 24, 24, in particular
for transporting the load 11 or simply shifting or transferring the apparatus 10.
[0019] The apparatus 10 also comprises means 26, 26 for driving the lifting of the load
gripping means, which drive a respective winch 28, 28, which in turn drives a corresponding
cable, or chain, 29, 29, that slides on corresponding return pulleys 29', 29", and
has an end 129 for fixing and attachment to the mobile part of the mast, as can be
inferred from Figure 4.
[0020] In particular, the pulleys 29', comprising a first and a second pulley 29'a, 29'b
located in vertical planes separated by angles of 90°, are supported at the upper
end of the fixed part 20a of the mast, whilst the pulleys 29", comprising a first
and a second pulley 29"a, 29"b located in vertical planes parallel with the first
upper pulley 29'a, are supported by the lower end of the extendable part 20b of the
mast, in such a way that with the respective winch 28 rotating to wind in the cable,
or chain, lifting of the extendable part 20b of the mast is produced, whilst with
the winch 28 rotating to pay out the cable, or chain, a lowering of the extendable
part 20b of the mast is produced.
[0021] In turn, the means or fork 22 for gripping the load are connected by a respective
cable or chain 27 to the fixed mast 20a by a corresponding return element, in the
form of a pulley or a roller 27', at the upper free end of the extendable part 20b
of the mast, in such a way that lifting and lowering of the extendable part 20b of
the mast produces lifting and lowering of the load gripping means 22.
[0022] Therefore, with the winch 28 rotating to wind in the cable, lifting of the extendable
part 20b of the mast is produced as well as lifting of the load gripping means 22
and of the load 11 supported by them if present, while with the winch 28 rotating
in the opposite angular direction to pay out the cable, lowering of the extendable
part 20b of the mast is produced, as well as of the gripping means 22 and of the load
11 supported by them, if present.
[0023] The traction means are in the form of corresponding electric motor means 24, 24,
which are powered by corresponding electricity accumulator means 30 through corresponding
control or inverter means 314, 314, as illustrated in the block diagram in Figure
5.
[0024] The means for driving the lifting are in the form of corresponding electric motor
means 26, 26, which are powered by corresponding electricity accumulator means 30
through corresponding control or inverter means 316, 316, as illustrated in the block
diagram in Figure 5.
[0025] In practice, shared electricity accumulator means 30 power both the electric motors
means 24, 24 of the apparatus traction or movement driving means, and the electric
motor means 26, 26 of the means for driving lifting.
[0026] In particular, as may be inferred from the diagram in Figure 5, the electricity accumulator
means are connected through the corresponding inverters 314, 314, 316, 316 to the
respective electric motors 24, 24 for traction and the electric motors 26, 26 for
lifting the load by respective connections, or leads, respectively labelled 31a, 31b,
31b, 31c and 31c.
[0027] The apparatus also comprises main electricity generating means which comprise an
internal combustion engine 32 that drives a corresponding electricity generator 34,
which through a charge regulator 36 supplies electricity to the electricity accumulator
means 30, via corresponding electrical connections, schematically illustrated and
labelled 33 in Figure 5.
[0028] As shown, the frame 12 comprises a turret-shaped portion 12a, forming the driver's
cab 14, which, in particular, comprises a lower treadable or supporting surface 14a
for the operator.
[0029] The apparatus frame 12 comprises a platform 12b, which at its front end is fitted
with the mast 20 and at the other end, that is to say its rear end, is fitted with
the driver's cab or turret 14.
[0030] Therefore, as shown, the driver's cab 14 is located at one end of the apparatus platform
12b, in particular the driver's cab 14 being at the end opposite that where the lifting
means 20 are located.
[0031] Thus, the platform 12b extends longitudinally, its length being less than the height
of the mast in the lowered condition, that is to say, the first part of the mast 20a.
[0032] Advantageously, during the load 11 lowering strokes, the electric motor means 26
of the lifting means 20 are designed to act as, or switch their operation to, means
for generating electricity, which is supplied, in particular via the electrical connections
31a, 31c and through the respective control devices 316, 316, to the electricity accumulator
means 30.
[0033] According to another point of view, it is also evident that during the lowering strokes
of the load gripping means, the electric motor means 26, 26 of the lifting means 20
are designed to act as means for generating electricity, which is supplied to the
electricity accumulator means 30.
[0034] According to yet another viewpoint, during the load lowering strokes of the extendable
part 20b of the mast 20, the electric motor means 26, 26 of the lifting means 20 are
designed to act as means for generating electricity, which is supplied to the apparatus
electricity accumulator means 30.
[0035] In practice, advantageously, the lowering of the load, of the gripping means 22 and
of the extendable part 22b of the mast, due to their respective weight, is transmitted
through the cables or chains 29 to the respective winch 28 and to the respective motors
26, 26 which, braking their fall, convert the potential mechanical energy of said
bodies 11, 22 and 20b into electricity which is supplied, through the corresponding
control means or inverters 316, 316, to the apparatus electricity accumulator means
30.
[0036] In particular, in this way, there is a considerable conversion of mechanical energy
into electricity, which recharges the electricity accumulator means 30, thanks to
the numerous heavy bodies involved in the lowering movement.
[0037] However, it shall be understood that according to a different innovative solution,
recovery of the mechanical energy may be provided for only one of said bodies 11,
22, 20b which can be lifted and lowered, or for any pair of them.
[0038] Also, advantageously, during the apparatus movement braking or slowing stretches,
the electric motor means 24, 24 of the traction or movement driving means are designed
to act as means for generating electricity which is supplied, in particular via the
electrical connections 31a, 31b and through the respective control devices 314, 314,
to the apparatus electricity accumulator means 30.
[0039] Advantageously, the electric motor means of the lifting means comprise a respective
electric motor, and in particular are in the form of a first and a second electric
motor 26, 26.
[0040] In particular, as can be clearly inferred from Figure 4, each electric motor 26,
26 drives a corresponding winch 28, 28 operating on a respective cable or chain 29,
whose free end 129 is fixed to the lower part of the extendable mast 20b.
[0041] In turn, the cable or chain 27 is fixed at 27a to the load 11 gripping means 22 and
at 27b to the upper part of the fixed mast 20a, as can be clearly inferred from the
details of Figures 1B and 1C.
[0042] In turn, the traction or movement driving electric motor means comprise a respective
electric motor, and in particular are in the form of a first and a second electric
motor 24, 24.
[0043] Advantageously, as can be inferred from Figure 2B, the respective traction electric
motor comprises a respective shaft 24', which is fixed to the hub 16" of the wheel
16, in particular through a corresponding connection comprising a flange 24", fixed
to the end of the rotation shaft 24' and fixed, by corresponding screws 24''', to
the hub 16".
[0044] As illustrated, the hub 16" of the wheel 16 forms the hub of both of the coupled
wheels 16', 16' for apparatus traction.
[0045] In practice, the first and second electric motors 24, 24 operate directly on a respective
front wheel 16, 16 of the apparatus.
[0046] Advantageously, the electricity accumulator means 30 are in the form of super-capacitor
means.
[0047] In practice, the electricity accumulator means 30 are in the form of a super-capacitor,
or a set of them, which, as is known, is formed by a capacitor which accumulates a
significant electric charge.
[0048] However, it shall be understood that, a simple battery may also be used for the electricity
accumulator means 30, although the preferred solutions is to accumulate the energy
in a super-capacitor or a set of them.
[0049] In practice, the respective electric motor 26 of the lifting means drives a corresponding
winch 28 for winding in and paying out a corresponding cable 29 or the like, which,
through corresponding return or pulley means 29', 29", operatively connects the fixed
part 20a and the extendable lifting part 20b of the mast 20, in such a way that the
extendable part 20b can move relative to the fixed part 20a of the mast. By means
of the cable or chain 27, whose ends are connected respectively to the means or fork
22 for gripping the load or ISO container 11, and to the fixed part 20a of the mast,
the motor or winch 26 lifts the load 11 and the gripping means 21, which support the
load 11.
[0050] As indicated, the frame 12 comprises a longitudinal platform 12b, which at a front
end 12' of the apparatus comprises the lifting means 20 and which supports a driver's
cab 14, in particular at the rear end 12" of the longitudinal platform 12b.
[0051] As illustrated, the driver's cab 14, and in particular its lower surface 14a, is
positioned above the upper surface or upper face 12'b of the platform 12b.
[0052] According to a particularly advantageous configuration, the energy accumulator means
30 are positioned below the driver's cab 14, in particular below the latter's supporting
surface 14a, also being vertically aligned with the driver's cab and housed in the
corresponding supporting turret 12a for the cab 14.
[0053] In practice, the energy accumulator means 30 are at a longitudinal end of the supporting
frame, in particular being at a rear end of the frame 12, being at an end opposite
that where the lifting means are located.
[0054] As illustrated, in particular in Figure 1A, the internal combustion engine means
32 are on the platform 12b between the cab 14 and the lifting mast 20.
[0055] In turn, the electricity generator 34 is, on the frame platform 12b, between the
driver's cab 14 and the lifting mast 20.
[0056] In particular, the electricity generator 34 is on the platform 12b in front of the
driver's cab 14.
[0057] In turn, the means 26 for driving the lifting means are substantially at the same
height as the internal combustion engine 32 and/or the main electricity generator
34.
[0058] In the accompanying drawings, the numeral 31 denotes means for housing the motor
control means 314, 314, 316, 316.
[0059] In practice, the control inverters 314, 314, 316, 316 are housed in the housing 31,
that is to say, at a single zone or control panel.
[0060] In turn, the height of the electricity accumulator means 30 is greater than that
of the means for driving the lifting means, the internal combustion engine 32, the
generator 34 and the control means 31, or they are higher up than one or more of the
latter.
[0061] As illustrated, the control means 31 are on the frame platform 12b in front of the
driver's cab 14.
[0062] In particular, as shown, the control means 31 are positioned below the main electricity
generator 34.
[0063] Advantageously, the respective electric motor 26 of the lifting means is positioned
opposite the main electricity generator 34.
[0064] As illustrated, on the apparatus platform 12b there is a containment body or cover
12c, in particular for the main electricity generator 34, the internal combustion
engine means 32 and the control means 31, or for one or more of the latter.
[0065] As illustrated, the containment body 12c extends from the rear zone in which the
driver's cab is located, in particular from the driver's turret 12a, to a respective
intermediate zone of the longitudinal platform 12b, in practice extending only over
a part of the length of the frame longitudinal platform 12b.
[0066] As illustrated, between the containment body 12c and the lifting means 20 there is
a space 13 for accommodating the means 26, 28 for driving the lifting means.
[0067] As illustrated, the driver's cab 14, and/or the turret 12a on which the cab 14 is
positioned, is vertically aligned with the rear wheels 18, in particular the turret
12a being slightly angled towards the front of the apparatus or the frame 12.
[0068] The above-mentioned advantageous layout of the respective components of the apparatus
allows not just optimum distribution of the weights and use of the spaces available,
but also easy maintenance, repairs and, if necessary, substitution, of the various
components.
[0069] In particular, the positioning of the rather heavy accumulator means 30 at the rear
zone or rear free end of the apparatus is advantageous, particularly because their
substitution and maintenance are facilitated, and because their weight is directly
discharged on the rear wheels of the apparatus.
[0070] In practice, this embodiment of the apparatus comprises a respective electric motor
26 of the lifting means which is designed to drive a corresponding winch 28, which
through corresponding transmission means 27, 29 lifts the load gripping means 22,
any load 11 present, and/or the extendable part 20b of the lifting mast 20.
[0071] Figures 6 to 9 show a second preferred embodiment 100 of the apparatus according
to this invention, comprising components similar to those of the previous embodiment,
labelled with the same reference characters, and which are not described again in
detail to avoid making this description too long.
[0072] This second preferred embodiment differs from the first due to the fact that the
frame 14 supports means 120 for lifting the load, which comprise a load-bearing structure,
formed by a corresponding mast, the mast comprising a first part 20a rising upwards
and connected to the frame 12, in particular to the front of the frame, and an extractable
part of the mast consisting of a second part 20b of the mast 20, which is vertically
extendable relative to the first part 20a and a third part 120c of the mast, which
is vertically extendable relative to the second part 20b of the mast, and which allow
the apparatus to reach a considerable lifting height.
[0073] As illustrated, the load-bearing structure or mast of the lifting of this second
preferred embodiment therefore comprises a first, a second and a third part 20a, 20b,
120c, which are substantially of the same length or height.
[0074] As may be inferred, the second part 20b of the mast can slide, thanks to corresponding
rollers housed in respective side guides of the lower mast 20a, relative to the first,
or fixed, part 20a of the mast 20a, moving telescopically relative to the latter.
[0075] As may be inferred, in turn, the third part 120c of the mast can slide, thanks to
corresponding rollers housed in respective side guides of the intermediate mast 20b,
relative to the second, or mobile intermediate, part 20b of the mast, moving telescopically
relative to the latter.
[0076] The apparatus also comprises means 22 for gripping the load 11, which are supported
by the mast 20 and can move along the mast 120, being placed in respective operating
positions, between a maximum lifting position, in which the second and third parts
20b, 120c of the mast are fully extended, and a maximum lowering position, in which
the gripping means are at or close to the ground and the extendable second and third
parts 20b, 120c of the mast are retracted relative to the first, fixed part 20a of
the mast.
[0077] As illustrated, each part of the mast has respective longitudinal members 20', 20'
and corresponding crosspieces which are labelled 20" connecting to the longitudinal
members 20'. As illustrated, the longitudinal members 20' of the second part 20b of
the mast can slide along and outside the longitudinal members 20' of the first part
20a of the mast, whose lower end is fixed to the apparatus frame 12. In turn, the
longitudinal members 20' of the third, upper part 120c of the mast can slide along
and outside the longitudinal members 20' of the second part 20b of the mast.
[0078] This second preferred embodiment 100 of the apparatus comprises, like the first embodiment,
respective traction or movement driving means 24, 24, in particular for transporting
the load 11 or simply shifting or transferring the apparatus 10.
[0079] As illustrated relative to the first preferred embodiment, the apparatus 100 comprises
means 26, 26 for driving the lifting of the load gripping means, which drive a respective
winch 28, 28, which in turn drives a corresponding cable or chain 29, 29, that slides
on corresponding return pulleys 29', 29", and has an end 129 for fixing and attachment
to the mobile part of the mast, in particular to the second, or mobile intermediate
part 20b of the mast.
[0080] In particular, the pulleys 29', comprising a first and a second pulley 29'a, 29'b
located in vertical planes separated by angles of 90°, are supported at the upper
end of the fixed part 20a of the mast, whilst the pulleys 29", comprising a first
and a second pulley 29"a, 29"b located in vertical planes parallel with the first
upper pulley 29'a, are supported by the lower end of the extendable part 20b of the
mast, in such a way that with the respective winch 28 rotating to wind in the cable,
lifting of the extendable part 20b of the mast and of the extendable part 120c connected
to it is produced, whilst with the winch 28 rotating to pay out the cable, a lowering
of the extendable parts 20b, 120c of the mast is produced.
[0081] In turn, the upper, or third part 120c of the mast is connected by a respective cable
or chain 127 to the fixed, or lower part 20a of the mast, by a corresponding return
element, in the form of a pulley or a roller 127', at the upper end of the second
part 20b of the mast, in such a way that lifting and lowering of the second part 20b
of the mast produces lifting and lowering of the third, or upper part 120c of the
mast.
[0082] The cable or chain 127 is fixed, at 127a, to the lower part of the third, or upper
part 120c of the mast and, at 127b, to the upper part of the fixed mast 20a, as can
be clearly inferred from Figure 7.
[0083] In turn, the means or fork 22 for gripping the load are connected by a respective
cable or chain 27 to the second part of the mast, or the mobile intermediate part,
20a by a corresponding return element, in the form of a pulley or a roller 27', at
the upper free end of the third part or upper part 120c of the mast, in such a way
that lifting and lowering of the extendable upper part 120c of the mast produces lifting
and lowering of the load gripping means 22.
[0084] The cable or chain 27 is fixed, at 27b, to the load 11 gripping means 22 and, at
27b, to the upper part of the second part, or mobile intermediate part 20b of the
mast, as can be clearly inferred from Figure 7.
[0085] Therefore, with the winch 28 rotating to wind in the cable, lifting of the extendable
parts 20b, 120c of the mast is produced as well as lifting of the load gripping means
22 and of the load 11 supported by them if present, while with the winch 28 rotating
in the opposite angular direction to pay out the cable, lowering of the extendable
parts 20b, 120c of the mast is produced, as well as of the gripping means 22 and of
the load 11 supported by them, if present.
[0086] As in the first preferred embodiment, the traction means are in the form of corresponding
electric motor means 24, 24, which are powered by corresponding electricity accumulator
means 30 through corresponding control or inverter means 314, 314, as illustrated
in the block diagram in Figure 9.
[0087] Moreover, the means for driving the lifting are in the form of corresponding electric
motor means 26, 26, which are powered by corresponding electricity accumulator means
30 through corresponding control or inverter means 316, 316, as illustrated in the
block diagram in Figure 9.
[0088] As in the first preferred embodiment, shared electricity accumulator means 130 power
both the electric motors means 24, 24 of the apparatus traction or movement driving
means, and the electric motor means 26, 26 of the means for driving lifting.
[0089] In particular, as may be inferred from the diagram in Figure 9, the electricity accumulator
means are connected through the corresponding inverters 314, 314, 316, 316 to the
respective electric motors 24, 24 for traction and the electric motors 26, 26 for
lifting the load, in particular by respective connections, or leads, respectively
labelled 31a, 31b, 31b, 31c and 31c.
[0090] The apparatus also comprises main electricity generating means which comprise an
internal combustion engine 32 that drives a corresponding electricity generator 34,
which through a charge regulator 36 supplies electricity to the electricity accumulator
means 30, via corresponding electrical connections, schematically illustrated and
labelled 33 in Figure 9.
[0091] Advantageously, during the load 11 lowering strokes, the electric motor means 26
of the lifting means 20 are designed to act as, or switch their operation to, means
for generating electricity, which is supplied, in particular via the electrical connections
31a, 31c and through the respective control devices 316, 316, to the electricity accumulator
means 30.
[0092] Moreover, during the lowering strokes of the load gripping means, the electric motor
means 26, 26 of the lifting means 20 are designed to act as means for generating electricity,
which is supplied to the electricity accumulator means 30.
[0093] According to yet another viewpoint, during the lowering strokes of the extendable
parts 20b, 120c of the lifting means mast 20, the electric motor means 26, 26 of the
lifting means 20 are designed to act as means for generating electricity, which is
supplied to the apparatus electricity accumulator means 30.
[0094] It shall be understood that electricity could be generated by the lowering of just
one of the extendable parts 20b, 120c of the mast.
[0095] In practice, advantageously, the lowering of the load, of the gripping means 22 and
of the extendable parts 20b, 120c of the mast, due to their respective weight, is
transmitted through the cables or chains 29 to the respective winch 28 and to the
respective motors 26, 26 which, braking their fall, convert the potential mechanical
energy of said bodies 11, 22, 20b and 120c into electricity which is supplied, through
the corresponding control means or inverters 316, 316, 36, to the apparatus electricity
accumulator means 30.
[0096] In particular, in this way, there is a considerable conversion of mechanical energy
into electricity, which recharges the electricity accumulator means 30, thanks to
the numerous heavy bodies involved in the lowering movement.
[0097] However, it shall be understood that according to a different innovative solution,
recovery of the mechanical energy may be provided for only one of said bodies 11,
22, 20b and 120c which can be lifted and lowered, or for any combination of them.
[0098] In the wiring diagram, the electricity accumulator means 130 are, advantageously,
connected to respective circuits and/or means 24, 24, 26, 26, to be electrically powered
or by which they are electrically powered, through the charge regulator means 136.
[0099] In practice, the electricity accumulator means 130 are in the form of a super-capacitor,
or a set of them, which, as is known, is formed by a capacitor which accumulates a
significant electric charge.
[0100] However, it shall be understood that, a simple battery may also be used for the electricity
accumulator means 130, although the preferred solutions is to accumulate the energy
in a super-capacitor or a set of them.
[0101] In practice, in this second preferred embodiment, the extendable part of the mast
comprises at least a second 20b and a third 120c part of the mast, which are extendable
respectively relative to the first part 20a of the mast and relative to the second
part 20b of the mast.
[0102] Advantageously, the apparatus comprises means which generate electricity, in particular
in the form of the electric motor means 26, 26 of the lifting means 20 which are designed
to act as electricity generating means, and which operate, during the lowering strokes
of these second and third parts 20b, 120c of the mast, or in particular of at least
one of these, and whose electricity produced is supplied to the apparatus electricity
accumulator means 30.
[0103] During their lowering strokes, or in particular the lowering strokes of at least
one out of the second and third parts 20b, 120c of the mast, the electric motor means
26, 26 of the lifting means 120 are designed to act as means for generating electricity,
which is supplied to the electricity accumulator means 130.
[0104] As illustrated above, in both of the above-mentioned preferred embodiments, there
are therefore means (particularly in the form of elongate elements - consisting of
cables or chains - and corresponding pulleys or rollers), for operatively connecting
the extendable part 20b, 120c of the mast to the respective means for driving lifting,
in particular to the respective electric motor for driving lifting 26, 26, and particularly
to the respective lifting winch 28, 28.
[0105] In particular, an apparatus for lifting a load is provided, in which during the lowering
strokes of the extendable part 20b of the mast, there are means which generate electricity,
in particular there are the electric motor means 26, 26 of the lifting means 20 which
are designed to act as electricity generating means, and whose electricity produced
is supplied to corresponding electricity accumulator means 30, in particular to the
electricity accumulator means 30 which power the electric motor means 26, 26.
[0106] In particular, an apparatus for lifting a load is also provided, in which during
the lowering strokes of the load gripping means, there are means which generate electricity,
in particular there are the electric motor means 26, 26 of the lifting means 20 which
are designed to act as electricity generating means, and whose electricity produced
is supplied to corresponding electricity accumulator means 30, in particular to the
electricity accumulator means 30 which power the electric motor means 26, 26.
[0107] In particular, an apparatus for lifting a load is also provided, in which during
the load 11 lowering strokes, there are means which generate electricity, in particular
there are the electric motor means 26, 26 of the lifting means 20 which are designed
to act as electricity generating means, and whose electricity produced is supplied
to corresponding electricity accumulator means 30, in particular to the electricity
accumulator means 30 which power the electric motor means 26, 26.
[0108] The invention described is susceptible of industrial application.
[0109] It would be obvious to one skilled in the art that several changes and/or modifications
can be made to the preferred embodiment of the invention without departing from the
scope of the invention, which is defined by the following claims.
1. An apparatus (10) for lifting and transporting a load, in which the load is an ISO-container
(11), comprises a supporting frame (12), means (16, 18) for moving the apparatus relative
to the ground, means for lifting and lowering the load comprising a respective mast
(20), and means (22) for gripping the load, which can move along the mast (20); the
mast comprising a first part (20a) connected to the frame (12) and an extendable part
(20b) connected to the first part (20a); the apparatus also comprising apparatus traction
or movement driving means (24, 24), and means (26, 26) for driving the lifting and
lowering of the extendable part (20b) of the mast, of the load gripping means, and
eventually of the load (11); characterised in that the means (26, 26) for driving the lifting are in the form of corresponding electric
motor means powered by corresponding electricity accumulator means (30); in that, during the lowering strokes of the extendable part (20b) of the mast, of the load
gripping means, and eventually of the load (11), there are said the electric motor
means (26, 26) of the lifting means (20) which are designed to act as means for generating
electricity, and whose electricity produced is supplied to corresponding electricity
accumulator means (30), which power the same electric motor means (26, 26); and in that it comprises main electricity generating means which comprise an internal combustion
engine (32) that drives a corresponding electricity generator (34) connected so as
to transmit power to said electricity accumulator means (30, 130).
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterised in that during the apparatus movement braking or slowing stretches, there are electric motor
means (24, 24) of the traction or movement driving means which are designed to act
as means for generating electricity which is supplied to the electricity accumulator
means (30).
3. The apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, characterised in that it comprises electric motor means of the lifting means which are powered by corresponding
electricity accumulator means (30, 130) through corresponding control means (314,
314).
4. The apparatus according to claim 3, characterised in that it comprises electric motor means of the lifting means in the form of an electric
motor, in particular in the form of a first and a second electric motor (26, 26).
5. The apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, characterised in that it comprises traction means (24, 24) in the form of corresponding electric motor
means which are powered by corresponding electricity accumulator means (30, 130) through
corresponding control means (314, 314).
6. The apparatus according to claim 5, characterised in that the electric motor means of the traction and movement driving means are in the form
of an electric motor, in particular in the form of a first and a second electric motor
(24, 24).
7. The apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, characterised in that it comprises traction means (24, 24) and means for driving the lifting means which
are powered by shared electricity accumulator means (30, 130).
8. The apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, characterised in that the electricity accumulator means (30, 130) are in the form of super-capacitor means
or if necessary a battery.
9. The apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, characterised in that the respective electric motor (26) of the lifting means drives a corresponding winch
(28) which through corresponding transmission means (27, 29) lifts the load gripping
means (22), any load (11) present and/or the respective extendable part (20b) of the
lifting mast (20).
10. The apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, characterised in that the respective electric motor (24) for traction comprises a respective shaft which
is fixed to the hub of the wheel (16).
11. The apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, characterised in that it comprises means for operatively connecting the extendable part (20b, 120c) of
the mast to the respective means for driving lifting, in particular to the respective
electric motor for driving lifting (26, 26), and particularly to the respective lifting
winch (26, 26).
12. The apparatus according to any of the foregoing claims, characterised in that the respective electric motor (26) of the lifting means drives a corresponding winch
(28) for winding in and paying out a corresponding cable or chain (29), which, through
corresponding return or pulley means (29', 29"), operatively connects the fixed part
(20a) and the extendable lifting part (20b) of the mast (20).
1. Vorrichtung (10) zum Heben und Transportieren einer Last, bei der die Last ein ISO-Container
(11) ist, umfassend einen Tragrahmen (12), Mittel (16, 18) zum Bewegen der Vorrichtung
relativ zum Boden, Mittel zum Heben und Senken der Last, die einen entsprechenden
Pfosten (20) umfassen, und Mittel (22) zum Greifen der Last, die sich entlang des
Pfostens (20) bewegen können, wobei der Pfosten einen ersten Teil (20a), der mit dem
Rahmen (12) verbunden ist, und einen ausziehbaren Teil (20b), der mit dem ersten Teil
(20a) verbunden ist, aufweist; wobei die Vorrichtung umfasst ferner Mittel (24, 24)
zum Ziehen oder Bewegen der Vorrichtung, und Mittel (26, 26) zum Betätigen des Anhebens
und Absenkens des ausziehbaren Teils (20b) des Pfostens, der Mittel zum Ergreifen
der Last und möglicherweise der Last (11); dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Mittel (26, 26) zum Betreiben des Anhebens die Form entsprechender Elektromotormittel
haben, die von entsprechenden elektrischen Speichermitteln (30) angetrieben werden;
dass während der Absenkhübe des ausziehbaren Teils (20b) des Mastes, der Mittel zum
Greifen der Last und möglicherweise der Last (11), sind die Elektromotormittel (26,
26) der Hebemittel (20) derart ausgelegt sind, dass sie als Mittel zum Erzeugen von
Elektrizität wirken und die von diesen erzeugte Elektrizität wird zu entsprechenden
Elektrizitätsspeichern (30) geliefert wird, die die gleichen Elektromotormittel (26,
26) versorgen, und dass es Hauptstromerzeugungsmittel umfasst, die einen Verbrennungsmotor
(32) umfassen, der einen entsprechenden angeschlossenen Elektrizitätsgenerator (34)
der derart damit verbunden ist, um Energie an das Elektrizitätsspeichermittel (30,
130) zu übertragen.
2. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass bei den Bewegungen von Abbremsen oder Verlangsamen der Strecken der Vorrichtung motorisch
angetriebene elektrische Mittel (24, 24) zur Betätigung des Zuges oder der Bewegung
der Antriebsmittel vorhanden sind, die dazu dienen sollen, als Mittel zur Stromerzeugung
zu wirken, die den Stromspeicherungsmitteln (30) zugeführt werden.
3. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sie motorisch angetriebene elektrische Mittel zur Betätigung der Hebemittel aufweist,
die über entsprechende Steuermittel (314, 314) mittels entsprechender Elektrizitätsspeicher
(30, 130) versorgt werden.
4. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sie motorisch angetriebene elektrische Mittel zur Betätigung der Hebemittel aufweist,
welche die Gestalt eines Elektromotors, insbesondere eines ersten und eines zweiten
Elektromotors (26, 26) aufweisen.
5. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sie Zugmittel (24, 24) in Form entsprechender motorisierter elektrischer Mittel aufweist,
die von entsprechenden elektrischen Speichermitteln (30, 130) durch entsprechende
Steuermittel (314, 314) gespeist werden.
6. Vorrichtung nach Anspruch 5, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die motorisierten elektrischen Mittel der Zug- und Bewegungsstellmittel die Form
eines Elektromotors haben, insbesondere die Form eines ersten und eines zweiten Elektromotors
(24, 24).
7. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sie Zugmittel (24, 24) und Mittel zur Betätigung der Hebemittel umfasst, welche mittels
Elektrizitätsspeichermittel (30, 130) gemeinsam versorgt werden.
8. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Elektrizitätsspeichermittel (30, 130) als Super-Kondensator-Mittel oder gegebenenfalls
als Batterie ausgebildet sind.
9. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der jeweilige Elektromotor (26) des Hebemittels ein entsprechendes Hebezeug (28)
betätigt, das durch entsprechende Übertragungsmittel (27, 29) die Lastaufnahmemittel
(22) jede vorhandene Last (11) und/oder den jeweiligen ausziehbaren Teil (20b) des
Hebemasts (20) anhebt.
10. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der jeweilige Elektromotor (24) zum Zug eine jeweilige Welle aufweist, die an der
Nabe des Rades (16) befestigt ist.
11. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass sie Mittel zur funktionellen Verbindung des ausfahrbaren Teils (20b, 120c) des Mastes
mit den jeweiligen Mitteln zur Betätigung des Hebezeugs, insbesondere mit dem jeweiligen
Elektromotor zur Betätigung des Hebezeugs, Hebemittel (26, 26) und insbesondere das
jeweilige Hebezeug (26, 26) aufweist.
12. Vorrichtung nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der jeweilige Elektromotor (26) des Hebemittels einen entsprechenden Hebezeug (28)
zum Auf- und Abwickeln eines entsprechenden Seils oder einer Kette (29) antreibt,
die durch eine entsprechende Rückstelleinrichtung oder eine entsprechende Riemenscheibe
(29', 29") das feststehende Teil (20a) und das ausfahrbare und anhebende Teil (20b)
des Mastes (20) wirkverbindet.
1. Dispositif (10) pour soulever et transporter une charge, dans lequel la charge est
un conteneur ISO (11), comprenant un châssis de support (12), des moyens (16, 18)
pour déplacer le dispositif par rapport au sol, des moyens pour soulever et abaisser
la charge comprenant un montant respectif (20) et des moyens (22) de préhension de
la charge, qui peuvent être déplacés le long du montant (20), le montant comprenant
une première partie (20a) reliée au châssis (12) et une partie extensible (20b) reliée
à la première partie (20a); le dispositif comprend en outre des moyens de traction
ou de déplacement (24, 24) du dispositif, et des moyens (26, 26) pour actionner de
la montée et de la descente de la partie extensible (20b) du montant, des moyens de
préhension de la charge, et éventuellement de la charge; caractérisé en ce que les moyens (26, 26) pour actionner la montée ont la forme de moyens de moteur électrique
correspondants entraînés par des moyens d'accumulateur électrique (30) correspondants;
ainsi que lors des courses d'abaissement de la partie extensible (20b) du montant,
des moyens de préhension de la charge et éventuellement de la charge (11), lesdits
moyens de moteur électriques des moyens de levage (20b) sont destinés à servir de
moyens de génération d'électricité, et l'électricité produite par ceux-ci il est alimenté
à des moyens d'accumulation d'électricité (30) correspondants, qui alimentent les
mêmes moyens de moteur électrique (26, 26), et en ce qu'il comprend des moyens principaux de génération d'électricité qui comprennent un moteur
à combustion interne (32) qui entraîne un générateur d'électricité correspondant (34)
connecté de manière à transmettre de l'énergie auxdits moyens d'accumulation d'électricité.
2. Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que pendant des parcours de freinage ou ralentissement du mouvements du dispositif, des
moyens électriques motorisés (24, 24) existent des moyens d'actionnement de la traction
ou du mouvement qui sont prévus pour servir de moyens de génération d'électricité
qui est alimentée aux moyens de stockage d'électricité.
3. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens électriques motorisés des moyens de levage qui sont alimentés
par des moyens de stockage d'électricité correspondants par des moyens de commande
correspondants (314, 314).
4. Dispositif selon la revendication 3, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens électriques motorisés des moyens de levage en forme d'un moteur
électrique, notamment en forme d'un premier et d'un deuxième moteur électrique (26,
26).
5. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens de traction (24, 24) sous forme de moyens électriques motorisés
correspondants qui sont alimentés par des moyens accumulateurs électriques (30, 130)
correspondants par des moyens de commande correspondants (314, 314).
6. Dispositif selon la revendication 5, caractérisé en ce que les moyens électriques motorisés des moyens d'actionnement de traction et de mouvement
ont la forme d'un moteur électrique, en particulier la forme d'un premier et d'un
deuxième moteur électrique (24, 24).
7. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens de traction (24, 24) et des moyens d'actionnement des moyens
de levage qui sont alimentés par des moyens accumulateurs d'électricité (30, 130)
partagés.
8. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les moyens accumulateurs d'électricité (30, 130) ont la forme de moyens super-condensateurs
ou le cas échéant d'une batterie.
9. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le moteur électrique (24) respectif des moyens de levage actionne un palan (28) correspondant
qui, par de moyens de transmission correspondants (27, 29), soulève les moyens de
prise de la charge (22), chaque charge (11) présente et/ou la partie extensible respective
(20b) du mât de levage (20).
10. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le moteur électrique respectif (24) pour la traction comprend un arbre respectif
qui est fixé au moyeu de la roue (16).
11. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend des moyens pour relier fonctionnellement la partie extensible (20b, 120c)
du mât aux moyens respectifs pour actionner le levage, en particulier au moteur électrique
respectif pour actionner le levage (26, 26) et en particulier au palan de levage (26,
26) respectif.
12. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le moteur électrique respectif (26) des moyens de levage entraîne un palan (28) correspondant
pour enrouler et dérouler un câble ou une chaîne (29) correspondants qui, par l'intermédiaire
d'un moyen de rappel ou d'une poulie correspondante (29', 29"), connecte de manière
opérationnelle la partie fixe (20a) et la partie de levage extensible (20b) du mât
(20) .