阅读说明：本技术 适于室内和全地形户外使用的高空作业平台 (Aerial work platform suitable for indoor and all-terrain outdoor use ) 是由 L·迪弗洛里奥 J-B·多雷 C·德沃 E·皮图德 于 2020-01-29 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种全地形户外升降机构,包括用于升降作业平台(3)的机构(2),该机构安装在底盘(1)上,底盘(1)带有前桥(12)和后桥(13),桥上带有轮子(10,11)。用于使升降机构在地面上移动的动力由第一电动马达(M1)提供,用于致动升降机构(2)的动力由第二电动马达(M2)经由其驱动的液压泵(50)提供。马达(M1、M2)由电池(20)供电,电池(20)可由升降机构上的一个或多个单相充电器(31、32、33)从单相或三相电网再充电,进一步提供了用于安装电源单元(40)的槽(39),该电源单元(40)旨在连接到充电器(31、32、33)以对电池(20)再充电。该升降机构更环保、更安静。(An all-terrain outdoor lifting mechanism comprises a mechanism (2) for lifting a working platform (3), the mechanism is mounted on a chassis (1), the chassis (1) is provided with a front axle (12) and a rear axle (13), and the axles are provided with wheels (10, 11). Power for moving the lifting mechanism over the ground is provided by a first electric motor (M1), and power for actuating the lifting mechanism (2) is provided by a hydraulic pump (50) via which a second electric motor (M2) is driven. The motors (M1, M2) are powered by a battery (20), the battery (20) being rechargeable from a single-phase or three-phase grid by one or more single-phase chargers (31, 32, 33) on the hoisting mechanism, there being further provided a tank (39) for mounting a power supply unit (40), the power supply unit (40) being intended to be connected to the chargers (31, 32, 33) for recharging the battery (20). The lifting mechanism is more environment-friendly and quieter.)

1. An aerial work platform adapted for all terrain outdoor use, comprising:

-a frame (1) equipped with at least two front wheels (10) and at least two rear wheels (11) allowing the aerial platform to move along the ground,

-a work platform (3),

-a lifting mechanism (2) for a work platform (3) mounted on the frame (1),

-at least one first electric motor (M1) for providing a driving force to move the aerial work platform along a ground surface,

-at least one second electric motor (M2) for providing a driving force to operate the lifting mechanism (2) of the work platform (3),

-at least one rechargeable battery (20) for powering at least one first electric motor (M1) and at least one second electric motor (M2),

wherein:

-the driving force to move the aerial platform along the ground is always provided only by the at least one first electric motor (M1), and

-the driving force for actuating the lifting mechanism (2) of the work platform (3) is always provided only by the at least one second electric motor (M2),

the aerial work platform further comprises:

-a front axle (12) equipped with two said front wheels (10) and a rear axle (13) equipped with two said rear wheels (11), wherein at least one of the axles is a transmission axle for transmitting the driving force of said at least one first electric motor (M1) to the respective wheel,

-at least one single-phase charger (31, 32, 33) for charging the at least one rechargeable battery (20) by connection to a single-phase supply network; and

-a position (39) for mounting a generator (40), preferably a generator (40) in a removable manner, said generator (40) being intended to be connected to at least one of said chargers (31, 32, 33) for recharging said battery (20).

2. Aerial work platform according to claim 1, comprising three locations (61, 62, 63), each location being arranged to receive a respective single phase charger (31, 32, 33), the aerial work platform being further arranged to be able to connect each single phase charger received at a location to a respective phase and neutral point of a three phase power supply network so as to be able to charge the at least one rechargeable battery (20) from two or three phase current of the three phase power supply network.

3. An aerial work platform as claimed in claim 2 wherein

Receiving respective single-phase chargers in two or all three of the locations (61, 62, 63).

4. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 including

-three single-phase chargers (31, 32, 33) dimensioned to be able to charge the at least one rechargeable battery (20) to 80% of its capacity in less than 3 hours when connected to a suitable three-phase supply network.

5. The aerial work platform of any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising

A hydraulic circuit for operating the hoisting mechanism (2) and comprising at least one hydraulic pump (50), wherein the at least one second electric motor (M2) is used for driving the at least one hydraulic pump (50), the hydraulic circuit preferably comprising a single hydraulic pump (50).

6. An aerial work platform as claimed in claim 5 wherein

-the at least one rechargeable battery (20), the at least one single-phase charger (31, 32, 33) and, if applicable, three positions (61, 62, 63) for receiving the single-phase charger, on a first side (G) of the frame (1) with respect to the lifting mechanism (2), and

-the at least one second electric motor (M2), the at least one hydraulic pump (50) and the location (39) for mounting the generator (40) are located on a second side (D) with respect to the lifting mechanism (2), the second side (D) being on the other side of the frame (2) with respect to the first side (G).

7. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein

The front shaft (12) and the rear shaft (13) each constitute a transmission shaft for transmitting the driving force of the at least one first electric motor (M1) to the corresponding wheel (10, 11).

8. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7 comprising

A single first electric motor (M1) and/or a single second electric motor (M2).

9. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein

The at least one first electric motor (M1) and/or the at least one second electric motor (M2) are alternating current motors operating at a rated voltage lower than or equal to 50VAC, the aerial work platform comprising at least one inverter (41; 42) for powering the at least one first electric motor (M1) and/or the at least one second electric motor (M2) from the at least one rechargeable battery (20), the rated voltage of the at least one rechargeable battery (20) being less than or equal to 50 VDC.

10. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9 comprising

A generator (40) removably mountable in said location (39) provided for this purpose, and means (34, 35) for electrically connecting said generator (40) with at least one of said single-phase chargers (31, 32, 33), said generator (40) preferably having a fuel tank whose volume is such that it can charge said at least one rechargeable battery (20) to at least 50% of its capacity.

11. The aerial work platform of claim 10 comprising

On-board electronics (70) provided for:

-identifying a type of generator (40) and adjusting a charging profile of the at least one rechargeable battery (20) according to the identified type of generator; and/or

-automatically starting the generator (40) when the charge level of the at least one rechargeable battery (20) is below a predetermined threshold.

12. The aerial work platform of any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising on-board electronics (70) configured to:

-limiting the power peaks absorbed by the at least one first and second electric motors (M2), and/or

-limiting the power delivered to the at least one first electric motor (M1) and the at least one second electric motor (M2) as a function of at least one parameter of the at least one rechargeable battery (20), such as the state of ageing of the at least one rechargeable battery (20) or the current temperature of the at least one rechargeable battery (20).

13. The aerial work platform of any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising

A single phase power outlet (84) mounted on the work platform (3), the aerial work platform being arranged to supply power to the single phase power outlet by one or more of the following possibilities:

-is connected to a single-phase supply network,

-powered by said at least one rechargeable battery (20) through an inverter (22) with which said aerial work platform is equipped, and

-powered by said generator (40).

14. The aerial work platform of any one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising

A three phase power outlet (84) mounted on the work platform (3), the aerial work platform being arranged to supply power to the three phase power outlet by connection to the three phase power network or by a generator (40).

15. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 14 wherein

The lifting mechanism of the work platform is scissor-like.

16. An aerial work platform comprises

-a work platform (3),

-a lifting mechanism (2) for the work platform (3),

-at least one electric motor (M1, M2) for providing a driving force to move the aerial work platform along the ground and/or to operate a lifting mechanism (2) of the work platform (3),

-at least one rechargeable battery (20) for powering the at least one electric motor (M1, M2),

-at least one charger (31, 32, 33) for recharging said at least one rechargeable battery (20), and

-a receiving position (39) for a generator (40) arranged for detachable mounting of the generator (40) for powering the at least one charger (31, 32, 33) and/or the at least one electric motor,

wherein:

-a receiving position (39) is open or openable outside the aerial work platform to allow the generator to be brought into and removed from the receiving position in a direction of bringing in/removing (F);

-a receiving position (39) comprising a positioning structure (101) for the generator (40), the positioning structure (101) being form-fitted with a complementary positioning structure (201a, 201b) of the generator, the positioning structure being capable of correcting, when the generator is brought into the receiving position, both of:

the generator is centered relative to the receiving position in a horizontal direction (G) perpendicular to the direction of introduction/removal (F), and

-an angular deviation (a) of the generator in a horizontal plane with respect to the direction of introduction/removal (F);

-the receiving position (39) comprises at least one stop (103) for positioning the generator (40) in the receiving position in the direction of introduction/removal (F); and

-a detachable fixation means (104) for securely holding and releasing the generator (40) in the receiving position so as to allow removal of the generator from the receiving position.

17. The aerial work platform of claim 16 wherein

The receiving position (39) comprises a retaining structure (102a, 102b) for the generator (40), which is prevented from being withdrawn from the receiving position in the direction of introduction/removal (F) by a form fit with a complementary retaining structure (202a, 202b) of the generator.

18. An aerial work platform as claimed in claim 16 or 17 wherein

The holding structure (102a, 102b) for the generator (40) is a fixed structure of the receiving position (39), arranged to be positioned below the generator (40) when placed in the receiving position (39), and to cooperate with a complementary holding structure (202a, 202b) of the generator (40) arranged below the generator (40).

19. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 18 wherein

The positioning structure (101) for the generator (40) is a fixed structure of the receiving location (39).

20. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 19 wherein

The receiving position (39) comprises a lower support 100 provided for resting the generator (40) thereon by its underside when the generator (40) is in place in the receiving position, the positioning structure and/or the retaining structure constituting a part of the lower support.

21. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 20 wherein

The positioning structure comprises at least one inclined plane or two inclined planes (101a, 101b) which are oppositely directed and mutually offset in a horizontal direction (G) perpendicular to the bring in/removal direction (F), the at least one inclined plane or the two inclined planes being arranged to cooperate with complementary holding structures (201a, 201b) of the generator.

22. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 21 wherein

Also included is at least one cable feeder (105) feeding a data connection cable and/or a power connection cable to the receiving location (39), the data connection cable providing for connecting on-board electronics (70) of the aerial work platform with the generator (40) when the generator is in the receiving location, and the power connection cable providing for connecting the generator (40) with a power loop of the aerial work platform.

23. Aerial work platform according to any one of claims 16 to 22, comprising on-board electronics (70) provided for controlling the generator.

24. Aerial work platform according to claim 23, said on-board electronics (70) comprising a wireless communication module to enable remote control of said generator (40) via said on-board electronics (70) when placed in said receiving position (39), said on-board electronics (70) preferably being configured to enable remote activation and/or remote inhibition of said generator via said wireless communication module.

25. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 24 wherein

The receiving location (39) comprises an exhaust gas duct (106) which, when placed in the receiving location, is adjacent or adjoining an exhaust outlet of the generator (40).

26. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 25 comprising

A system for locking the generator (40) in the receiving position to prevent theft, preferably by means of a padlock or lock.

27. An aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 26 comprising

-a frame (1) with ground moving members (10, 11), said receiving location (39) being arranged on said frame (1) or on a turret of said lifting mechanism of said work platform, said turret being pivotally mounted on said frame.

28. The aerial work platform of claim 27 wherein

The receiving position (39) is arranged on the frame (1) adjacent to a wheel (11) of the frame (1) such that a part of the generator (40) extends out from the frame (1) above the wheel (1) when the generator is in the receiving position.

29. An electrical generator (40) adapted for use with an aerial work platform as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 28, the electrical generator being adapted to be placed in the receiving location (39) of the aerial work platform, comprising

-at least two fork channels (210, 211) for handling the generator by a forklift; and

-complementary positioning structures (201a, 201b) intended to cooperate with the positioning structures (101) of the receiving position (39) of the aerial work platform, to correct, when the generator is brought into the receiving position, both of the following conditions:

the generator is lack of centering with respect to the receiving position in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of introduction/removal, an

Angular deviation of the generator in the horizontal plane with respect to the direction of introduction/removal.

30. The generator of claim 29 further comprising

-complementary retaining structures (202a, 202b) intended to cooperate with retaining structures (102a, 102b) of the receiving position (39) of the aerial work platform, so as to prevent the generator from being withdrawn from the receiving position in the direction of introduction/removal (F).

31. A generator as claimed in claim 29 or 30, wherein

The complementary positioning structure (201a, 201b) and/or the complementary retaining structure (202a, 202b) are fixed.

32. A generator as claimed in any of claims 29 to 31, comprising

A power outlet (83) for connecting the generator to a power circuit of the aerial work platform and/or a data link connector for connecting control electronics of the generator to on-board electronics of the aerial work platform.

33. A generator as claimed in any of claims 29 to 32, arranged to be controlled by on-board electronics (70) of the aerial work platform.

34. A generator as claimed in claim 33, arranged to be controlled solely by on-board electronics (70) of the aerial work platform.

35. A group comprising an aerial platform as claimed in any one of claims 16 to 28 and a generator as claimed in any one of claims 29 to 34.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to the field of mobile lift working platforms (MEWP), also known as Aerial Work Platforms (AWP). The invention particularly relates to an aerial work platform suitable for all-terrain outdoor use.

Background

An aerial work platform is a machine intended to allow one or more persons to work at height. To this end, they include a work platform for use by one or more persons. The work platform is supported by a lifting structure which can be lifted from a lower position on the frame of the aerial work platform to a desired work position at a certain height. The lift mechanism is typically operated by a hydraulic system.

There are some self-propelled aerial work platforms designed for all-terrain outdoor use. They operate on a building site or other outdoor location where there is usually no or limited electrical supply network. They are therefore usually powered by an internal combustion engine and equipped with a fuel tank to ensure acceptable autonomy of operation, possibly with the possibility of filling the aerial work platform on site. The internal combustion engine drives one or more hydraulic pumps of the hydraulic system, operates the lifting mechanism of the work platform, and powers the hydraulic motor to drive the wheels of the aerial work platform to move over the ground.

A disadvantage of this type of aerial work platform is environmental and noise pollution caused by the exhaust gases of the internal combustion engine and the noise of the engine itself, respectively.

Another disadvantage of this type of aerial work platform is that they cannot be used inside buildings, precisely because of the exhaust gases and the noise of the internal combustion engine.

In contrast, there are electric aerial work platforms developed specifically for in-building use. The power for the various movements is provided by one or more rechargeable battery-powered electric motors. In particular, each wheel of the aerial work platform is equipped with an electric motor for ground walking, the other electric motor being dedicated to operating the hydraulic pump of the hydraulic circuit for operating the lifting mechanism of the work platform. Thus, these aerial work platforms are environmentally friendly and quiet. The aerial work platform is also provided with a single-phase charger for charging the battery by connecting a single-phase power supply. The battery charging operation is typically performed at night, so that the aerial platform can be used the next day and has autonomy for at least one working day.

However, these powered aerial work platforms are not designed for all terrain outdoor use. In fact, they are not suitable for overcoming obstacles, especially considering their low ground clearance, insufficient power of the electric motors driving the wheels, and the position of these electric motors that expose them to impacts in all-terrain environments. Nor are they designed to provide sufficient stability outdoors, for example, where the ground is uneven, due to the wheelbase and the lack of stabilizing feet. Furthermore, they are also not sufficiently autonomous, since aerial work platforms for all terrain outdoors consume more energy, in particular because they require more powerful motors to overcome obstacles, and also have auxiliary means, such as stabilizing feet, which need to be operated. This is especially true when their workplace has no access to the power supply network, or access is limited and sufficient charging is not available.

More generally, there is a technical prejudice according to which electric aerial platforms without internal combustion engines are not suitable for all-terrain outdoor use, mainly due to their lack of autonomy of operation, firstly considering the size of rechargeable batteries that can be installed on the aerial platform, secondly their increased demand for electric power, variable environmental conditions, in particular with respect to temperature, which are disadvantageous for the batteries, and the inability to obtain a sufficient supply network to recharge the batteries. This technical bias is further exacerbated in the case of scissor lifts, which are often placed at designated points of use on a building site for as long as one or more days. Moving the aerial work platform to recharge the battery means repositioning the aerial work platform at the same location, which means time and effort is wasted for the user.

Recently, hybrid mobile aerial work platforms have been proposed, i.e. with an electric motor and an internal combustion engine. This type of aerial work platform may use electric motors indoors and internal combustion engines outdoors. In some cases, the two motors may be coupled in series to provide powered lift. An example of such an aerial work platform is disclosed in EP 1967486 Al. These hybrid aerial work platforms also suffer from environmental and noise pollution sources associated with the internal combustion engine.

Disclosure of Invention

In the context of the present invention, it is an object to provide an aerial work platform which substantially limits the above mentioned disadvantages. In particular, it is an object to propose an aerial work platform which can be used outdoors over all terrain, while significantly limiting environmental and noise pollution. To this end, according to a first aspect, there is provided an aerial work platform adapted for all terrain outdoor use, comprising:

-a frame equipped with at least two front wheels and at least two rear wheels allowing the aerial platform to move along the ground,

-a work platform for carrying out a work operation,

-a lifting mechanism for a work platform mounted on the frame,

-at least one first electric motor for providing a driving force to move the aerial work platform along the ground,

-at least one second electric motor for providing a driving force for operating the lifting mechanism of the work platform,

at least one rechargeable battery for powering the at least one first electric motor and the at least one second electric motor,

wherein:

-the driving force for moving the aerial work platform along the ground is always provided only by the at least one first electric motor, and

-the driving force for actuating the lifting mechanism of the work platform is always provided only by the at least one second electric motor,

the aerial work platform further comprises:

-a front axle equipped with two said front wheels and a rear axle equipped with two said rear wheels, wherein at least one of the axles is a transmission axle for transmitting the driving force of said at least one first electric motor to the respective wheel,

-at least one single-phase charger for charging the at least one rechargeable battery by connecting to a single-phase supply network; and

-a position for mounting (preferably in a removable manner) a generator intended to be connected to at least one of the chargers to recharge the battery.

This makes the aerial platform more environmentally friendly and quieter because it uses only electric motors to provide the driving force required to translate the aerial platform along the ground and operate the lifting mechanisms. Therefore, the aerial work platform can be used outdoors and can be used in buildings. Furthermore, electric motors are more energy efficient than internal combustion engines and do not risk hydraulic fluid leakage as hydraulic motors do. The wheels of the aerial work platform are mounted on front and rear axles, which allows the aerial work platform to be adapted for all terrain outdoor use, the power provided by the first electric motor being regulated to be appropriately selected in view of their robustness and reliability, and the fact that the first electric motor is not placed on the level of the wheels. If in use the autonomy of the batteries proves to be insufficient without a suitable power network, a generator may be installed at a designated location on the aerial platform to recharge the rechargeable batteries, thereby improving the autonomy of use of the aerial platform. More generally, its electrical and other components are advantageously selected to reduce energy consumption, which can also be optimized by control electronics on the aerial work platform. Therefore, the invention overcomes the technical prejudice that it is impossible to develop an electric aerial work platform without an internal combustion engine for outdoor use.

Preferably the mounting of the generator on the aerial work platform is removable and the location of the aerial work platform for receiving it is itself preferably arranged to facilitate its mounting and removal. Thus, the generator may be installed on or removed from the aerial platform as required, in particular by the end user, for example on the building site, or by the aerial platform rental company, for example at the discretion of its customers. The detachable mounting of the generator on the aerial work platform has several advantages. Thus, if a user only considers the use of their battery for which autonomy is sufficient, for example only for indoor or outdoor use where there is a permanent or almost permanent power grid, it is possible to market aerial work platforms without generators. Furthermore, the generator may be added to the aerial work platform at any time if later used in an environment where there is insufficient external power. Furthermore, this allows shared use of the same generator between multiple aerial work platforms designed to removably receive it. For example, a rental company may manage a group of aerial work platforms using a smaller number of generators and provide them as accessories to customers in need. Another advantage is that the periodic maintenance of the generator is independent of the aerial platform, during which time the aerial platform can still be operated. Another advantage is that the generator can also be removed from the aerial work platform for other uses at the work site.

According to a particularly advantageous embodiment provision may be made for the possibility of equipping the aerial work platform with two or three single-phase chargers, thereby providing flexibility in charging the rechargeable batteries depending on whether there is a single-phase or multi-phase (typically three-phase) power supply. If there is a suitable single-phase power supply, it may be provided that only one single-phase charger is connected. Conversely, when there is a suitable multi-phase power supply, in particular a three-phase power supply, each single-phase charger, if two or three, is preferably connected to a respective one of the phases, so that the charging speed of the battery is substantially higher than in the former case. Furthermore, this allows the aerial work platform to be equipped with a single phase or three phase generator. Furthermore, it is more economical and less cumbersome to use at least two, and preferably three, single-phase chargers, rather than, for example, one single-phase charger and a single three-phase charger. Furthermore, using three single-phase chargers connected to a single-phase or three-phase power supply, standard commercial chargers can be used, obviating the need to develop a specific charger suitable for receiving single-phase or three-phase power.

More generally, according to a preferred embodiment, the aerial work platform includes one or more of the following features:

-the aerial platform comprises three locations each arranged to receive a respective single phase charger, the aerial platform further being arranged to be able to connect each single phase charger received at a location to a respective phase and neutral point of a three phase power supply network so as to be able to charge the at least one rechargeable battery from two or three phase currents of the three phase power supply network;

-receiving respective single-phase chargers in two or all three of said locations;

-the aerial work platform comprises three single-phase chargers dimensioned to be able to charge the at least one rechargeable battery to 80% of its capacity in less than 3 hours when connected to a suitable three-phase power supply network;

-the aerial platform further comprises a hydraulic circuit for operating the lifting mechanism and comprises at least one hydraulic pump, wherein the at least one second electric motor is for driving the at least one hydraulic pump;

-the hydraulic circuit comprises a single hydraulic pump;

-the at least one rechargeable battery, the at least one single-phase charger and, if applicable, the three positions for receiving the single-phase charger are located on a first side of the frame relative to the lifting mechanism, and the at least one second electric motor, the at least one hydraulic pump and the positions for mounting the generator are located on a second side of the frame relative to the lifting mechanism, the second side being on the other side of the frame relative to the first side;

-the front axle and the rear axle each constitute a transmission shaft for transmitting the driving force of the at least one first electric motor to the respective wheel;

-the aerial work platform comprises a single first electric motor and/or a single second electric motor;

-the at least one first electric motor and/or the at least one second electric motor is an ac motor operating at a rated voltage below or equal to 70VAC, preferably below or equal to 50VAC, the aerial work platform comprising at least one inverter for powering the at least one first electric motor and/or the at least one second electric motor from the at least one rechargeable battery;

-the nominal voltage of the at least one rechargeable battery is less than or equal to 100VDC, preferably less than or equal to 50 VDC;

-the aerial work platform comprises a generator removably mountable in the location provided for this purpose, and means for electrically connecting the generator with at least one of the single-phase chargers, the generator preferably having a fuel tank whose volume enables it to charge the at least one rechargeable battery to at least 50% of its capacity;

-the aerial work platform comprises onboard electronics provided for: identifying a type of generator and adjusting a charging profile of the at least one rechargeable battery according to the identified type of generator;

-the aerial work platform comprises onboard electronics provided for: automatically starting the generator when the charge level of the at least one rechargeable battery is below a predetermined threshold;

-the aerial work platform comprises onboard electronics configured to: limiting the peak power absorbed by the at least one first electric motor and the at least one second electric motor and/or limiting the power delivered to the at least one first electric motor and the at least one second electric motor according to at least one parameter of the at least one rechargeable battery, such as the state of ageing of the at least one rechargeable battery or the current temperature of the at least one rechargeable battery;

-the aerial platform further comprising a single phase power outlet mounted on the platform, the aerial platform being arranged to supply power to the single phase power outlet by one or more of the following possibilities:

o is connected to a single-phase supply network,

o is powered by said at least one rechargeable battery via an inverter provided with said aerial work platform, and

o is powered by the generator;

-an aerial work platform further comprising a three-phase power outlet mounted on the work platform, the aerial work platform being arranged to supply power to the three-phase power outlet by connection to the three-phase power network or by a generator;

the lifting mechanism of the work platform is scissor-like.

In the context of the aerial work platform proposed and described above in accordance with this first aspect, and more generally in relation to electrically powered aerial work platforms which may be fitted with a detachable generator, it is desirable to provide a solution which allows the generator to be quickly and easily mounted on the aerial work platform.

US 6,012,544 discloses a solution for detachably mounting a generator on an aerial work platform. It comprises a support plate for the generator, on which two hooks are provided, which support plate can be suspended from the frame by inserting the hooks into two corresponding slots of the frame. A disadvantage of this solution is that mounting the generator on the frame is fragile, because the hooks must be accurately aligned with the slots of the frame during the mounting operation, and the generator is typically heavy, in excess of 100 kilograms, and is typically moved by a forklift. Furthermore, there is a risk that the hook may come out of the frame slot, for example when the aerial platform is moved over uneven ground.

Therefore, according to a second aspect, the object of the present invention is to provide a solution for detachably placing a generator on an aerial work platform, whereby the above mentioned disadvantages may be at least partly alleviated.

Therefore, the invention provides an aerial work platform which comprises

-a work platform for carrying out a work operation,

-a lifting mechanism for the work platform,

-at least one electric motor for providing a driving force to move the aerial work platform along the ground and/or to operate the lifting mechanism of the work platform, this operation preferably being generated by a hydraulic circuit comprising a hydraulic pump driven by the at least one electric motor,

-at least one rechargeable battery for powering the at least one electric motor,

-at least one charger for recharging said at least one rechargeable battery, and

a receiving position for the generator, provided for detachable mounting of the generator, for powering the at least one charger and/or the at least one electric motor,

wherein:

-a receiving position is open or openable outside the aerial work platform to allow the generator to be brought into and removed from the receiving position in a bring in/remove direction;

-the receiving position comprises a positioning structure for the generator, which positioning structure is form-fitted with a complementary positioning structure of the generator, which positioning structure is capable of correcting both of the following when the generator is brought into the receiving position:

the generator is lack of centering with respect to the receiving position in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of introduction/removal, an

Angular deviation of the generator in the horizontal plane with respect to the direction of introduction/removal;

-the receiving position comprises at least one stop for positioning the generator in the receiving position in the bring in/remove direction; and

-a detachable securing means for securely holding the generator in the receiving position and releasing it so as to allow removal of the generator from the receiving position.

The positioning of the generator in the receiving position, in particular by means of a fork lift, becomes easier and quicker, since the positioning structure of the receiving position can be brought into the above-mentioned cooperation with a complementary structure of the generator.

According to a preferred embodiment, the aerial work platform comprises one or more of the following features:

-the receiving position comprises a holding structure for the generator, which prevents withdrawal of the generator from the receiving position in the direction of insertion/removal by form-fitting with a complementary holding structure of the generator;

-the holding structure for the generator is a fixed structure of the receiving position, arranged to be positioned below the generator when placed in the receiving position, and to cooperate with a complementary holding structure of the generator arranged below the generator;

-the positioning structure for the generator is a fixed structure of the receiving location;

-the receiving position comprises a lower support provided for resting the generator thereon by its underside when the generator is in place in the receiving position, the positioning structure and/or holding structure constituting a part of the lower support;

-the positioning structure comprises at least one inclined plane or two inclined planes, which are oppositely directed and mutually offset in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of introduction/removal, the at least one inclined plane or the two inclined planes being arranged to cooperate with complementary holding structures of the generator;

-the aerial work platform further comprises at least one cable feeder feeding a data connection cable and/or a power connection cable to the receiving location, the data connection cable providing for connecting on-board electronics of the aerial work platform with the generator when the generator is in the receiving location, and the power connection cable providing for connecting the generator with a power loop of the aerial work platform;

-the aerial work platform comprises on-board electronics providing for control of the generator;

-the on-board electronics comprising a wireless communication module to enable remote control of the generator via the on-board electronics when the generator is placed in the receiving position, the on-board electronics preferably being configured to enable remote activation and/or remote inhibition of the generator via the wireless communication module;

-the receiving position comprises an exhaust gas conduit adjacent or abutting an exhaust outlet of the generator when placed in the receiving position;

-the aerial work platform comprises a system for locking the generator in the receiving position, preferably by means of a padlock or lock, to prevent theft;

-the aerial work platform comprises a frame with ground moving members, the receiving location being arranged on the frame or on a turret of the lifting mechanism of the work platform, the turret being pivotally mounted on the frame;

-the receiving position is arranged on the frame adjacent to a wheel of the frame, such that a part of the generator extends out from the frame above the wheel when the generator is in the receiving position.

According to another aspect, the present invention also provides a generator adapted for use with an aerial work platform as hereinbefore described, the generator being adapted to be positioned at a receiving location on the aerial work platform and comprising:

-at least two fork channels for handling the generator by a forklift; and

-complementary positioning structures intended to cooperate with the positioning structures of the receiving position of the aerial work platform to correct, when the generator is brought into the receiving position, both of the following conditions:

the generator is lack of centering with respect to the receiving position in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the direction of introduction/removal, an

Angular deviation of the generator in the horizontal plane with respect to the direction of introduction/removal.

According to a preferred embodiment, the invention comprises one or more of the following features:

-the generator further comprises complementary retaining structures intended to cooperate with retaining structures of the receiving position of the aerial work platform to prevent withdrawal of the generator from the receiving position in the direction of insertion/removal;

-the complementary locating structure and/or the complementary retaining structure are fixed;

-the generator comprises a power socket for connecting the generator to a power circuit of the aerial work platform and/or a data link connector for connecting control electronics of the generator to on-board electronics of the aerial work platform;

-the generator is arranged to be controlled by on-board electronics of the aerial work platform;

-the generator is arranged to be controlled preferably only by on-board electronics of the aerial work platform.

According to a further aspect, the invention proposes a set comprising an aerial work platform as described above and a generator as described above.

It will be appreciated that the invention according to this second aspect is particularly applicable to an aerial work platform according to the first aspect described above.

Drawings

Further features and advantages of the invention will appear from reading the following description of a preferred embodiment of the invention, given by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an aerial work platform according to one embodiment of the present invention from the right side thereof, with the work platform in a lowered position.

Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the aerial work platform, but from its left side, with the work platform in a raised position.

FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 1, but with the generator removed from the aerial platform.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the aerial work platform electrical and hydraulic circuits.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing power options available on the aerial work platform.

Figure 6 is a top view of the aerial work platform frame, equipped with side covers that house part of the aerial work platform electrical and hydraulic components.

Figure 7 is a left side view of the aerial work platform with the side covers removed.

Figure 8 is a right side view of the aerial work platform with the side covers removed.

FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view of one embodiment of a receiving location for a removably mounted aerial work platform for a generator.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of the generator from the front for removable mounting in the receiving position of the aerial work platform shown in figure 9.

Fig. 11 is a perspective view of the generator of fig. 9 from the rear.

Figure 12 is a partial schematic front view illustrating the cooperation between the lower part of the generator of figures 10, 11 and the bottom of the aerial work platform shown in figure 9 when the generator is placed in its dedicated position.

Fig. 13 is a partial schematic side view corresponding to fig. 12.

Fig. 14 is a partial schematic view of the lower rear portion of the generator-dedicated location, showing the exhaust conduit provided in that location in the embodiment of fig. 9-13.

Fig. 15 is a partial view illustrating locking of the generator in a dedicated position for the aerial work platform in this same embodiment.

Fig. 16 is a partial side view of the generator of fig. 10 and 11 showing the electrical panel.

Detailed Description

The illustrated aerial work platform comprises a frame 1, a lifting mechanism 2 mounted on the frame 1 and a work platform 3 supported by the lifting mechanism 2. The work platform 3 typically comprises a floor and a railing and is designed to accommodate personnel and possibly also equipment on the floor.

The aerial work platform is in a scissor type. In other words, the lifting mechanism 2 is a scissor lifting mechanism: lifting mechanisms of this type are known per se. It consists of a cross beam hinged at its center in a scissor-like manner, the scissor mechanisms being mounted on top of each other by their ends, which are pivotally connected so that they can fold and unfold in height. One or more hydraulic cylinders 4 are used to extend or retract the lifting mechanism 2 to raise the work platform 3 to the required work height and lower it onto the frame 1.

The frame 1 is provided with at least two front wheels 10 and at least two rear wheels 11 by means of which the frame 1 rests on the ground and by means of which the aerial work platform can be moved along the ground. As can be seen from the figure, the front side of the aerial work platform is designated as AV, the rear side is designated as AR, the left side is designated as G and the right side is designated as D.

As can be seen in fig. 4, the front wheels 10 are mounted on the axle of a front axle 12 and the rear wheels 11 are mounted on the axle of a rear axle 13. Advantageously, all wheels 10, 11 are driven, and therefore the aerial platform is equipped with all-wheel drive. In other words, the front axle 12 and the rear axle 13 are transaxles and both are connected to the same electric motor M1 to drive the respective wheels. Conventionally, a speed reducer 16 may be provided, through which the rotation of the output shaft of the electric motor M1 is transmitted to the front shaft 12 and the rear shaft 13. Of course, the deceleration can also be effected at the differential of each axle 12, 13 and/or at the coupling of the wheels 10, 11. Preferably, each axle 12, 13 generally includes a differential that allows the respective wheel to rotate at different speeds. In this case, the motor M1 is mounted on one of the shafts, while its rotary motion is transmitted to the other shaft through the drive shaft 14 coupled at its two ends by respective universal joints 17. A central differential 15 is preferably provided for distributing the force between the front and rear axles and allowing for a difference in drive speed between the two axles.

In this case the front wheels 10 are steered, but alternatively also the rear wheels 11. In another embodiment, all four wheels 10, 11 are steered.

The use of four wheel drive is particularly suitable for all terrain outdoor use of aerial work platforms, particularly for negotiating obstacles. Furthermore, it is economical to use an all-wheel drive, since only one electric motor is required to drive the front and rear wheels. Furthermore, the front axle 12, rear axle 13, electric motor M1, drive shaft 14 and other related components may advantageously be pre-assembled into a sub-assembly ready to be mounted on the frame 1, thereby saving time during assembly of the aerial work platform and simplifying the assembly process.

Alternatively, two electric motors M1 may be provided, one dedicated to driving the front wheels 10 and the other dedicated to driving the rear wheels 11. In this case, each of the two electric motors may be mounted directly on the respective drive shaft. However, it is more economical to drive the wheels using a single electric motor M1.

In another embodiment, the aerial work platform has only two drive wheels, either front or rear, which are driven by an electric motor M1.

The electric motor M1 is preferably dedicated to the driving wheels. This is also the case if there are multiple electric motors M1 to drive the wheels.

In general, the fact that the aerial work platform is equipped with a front axle 12 and a rear axle 13 makes it suitable for all terrain outdoor use, in particular by providing a suitable ground clearance without being bothered by the position of the electric motor. More generally, the mechanical design of aerial work platforms is suitable for all terrain outdoor use, similar to existing aerial work platforms designed for such use, particularly in terms of wheelbase and mechanical strength.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the aerial work platform electrical and hydraulic circuits. As shown, the aerial work platform includes a battery 20 for powering the various electrical components of the aerial work platform. Alternatively, the aerial work platform may include a plurality of batteries connected in series and/or parallel, this variation being referred to hereinafter as a single battery 20. Preferably, a battery is provided to ensure that the aerial work platform has operational autonomy for at least one normal work day.

The aerial platform comprises at least one first single-phase charger 31 for charging the battery 20 via the battery management circuit 21. Preferably arranged to accept as input an AC voltage corresponding to the single phase mains voltage used in the country in which the aerial work platform is located.

As a reminder, in europe, the single-phase mains voltage is typically 230VAC 50 Hz. For many countries in the world, it ranges from 220VAC to 240VAC, typically 50Hz, sometimes 60 Hz. In many countries in the continental americas and more, single-phase mains voltages range from 110VAC to 127VAC, typically 60Hz, and sometimes 50 Hz. In Japan, it is 100VAC, 60Hz or 50Hz depending on the region.

Accordingly, charger 31 may be advantageously designed for a single-phase mains voltage range to suit different countries, for example from 110VAC to 230VAC or even 100VAC to 240 VAC.

The aerial work platform may include two further single phase chargers 32, 33 for charging the battery 20 from three phase mains electricity via the battery management circuit 21 together with the first charger 31.

For this purpose, the aerial work platform should be equipped with a cable fitted with a standard plug 34 or a standard socket or any other suitable means for connecting one of the single-phase chargers 31 to 33 to a standard single-phase socket on the mains grid of the country concerned. It is provided with a second cable with a standard plug 35 or a standard socket or any other suitable means to enable the aerial work platform to be connected to a standard three-phase socket of a three-phase power grid.

This is advantageous when the maximum current supplied by a standard single-phase mains socket is not compatible with rapid charging of the battery 20. This is typically the case for most 220VAC or 230VAC single phase utility power networks, where the standard plug is designed to provide a maximum current of 16A. The three-phase supply network allows the charging speed of the battery 20 to be much faster than in the case of a single-phase supply network, since the three phases can simultaneously provide more maximum power than a single phase, and the output powers of the chargers 31 to 33 are added together.

From this point of view, each of the chargers 31, 32, 33 is preferably designed to accept as input a single phase voltage of at least 220VAC or 230 VAC. Thus, the battery 20 can be charged in the following manner: the first charger 31 is connected to the single phase mains of the respective voltage-or it may accept another voltage as an input-or by connecting the three chargers 31, 32, 33 to a 380VAC or 400VAC three phase mains supply, each charger then being connected between the respective phase and the neutral line so as to receive a 220VAC or 230VAC input voltage.

The chargers 32, 33 may be designed for single phase voltages of 220VAC or 230VAC, while the first charger 31 may be designed for voltage ranges as described above. Alternatively, the three chargers 31, 32, 33 are identical and provide the voltage intervals mentioned for the first charger 31.

Advantageously, the chargers 31 to 33 are able to charge the batteries together to 80% of their capacity in less than 3 hours, or even less than 2.5 hours, preferably in 2 hours, provided of course that the three-phase supply network to which they are connected is able to provide the required power. In contrast, charging the battery to 80% capacity by a single-phase charger takes about 6 to 8 hours. It is also possible to charge the battery 20 through two phases by using an aerial platform or being equipped with only two of the three chargers 31 to 33. Preferably, the aerial work platform is designed to have three positions for mounting one of the chargers 31, 32, 33, respectively. Thus, one to three chargers 31, 32, 33 may be provided for the same aerial work platform as desired.

The on-board electronics 70 are preferably designed to adapt the charging curve of the battery 20 according to the possibilities of the relevant national utility grid and according to whether it is made of a single-phase or a three-phase utility grid. For this purpose, it is provided that the operator indicates the country to the on-board electronics 70 via the control panel 75. The aerial work platform is designed to removably mount the generator 40. The generator 40 is intended to charge the battery 20 to increase the operating range of the aerial work platform, particularly if there is no access to a mains network or other power source to charge the battery 20. More precisely, the battery 20 is charged by one or three chargers 31 to 33, depending on whether the generator 40 provides a three-phase or a single-phase current as output.

The aerial work platform is equipped with a hydraulic circuit that powers a hydraulic cylinder 4 for operating the lifting mechanism 2. The hydraulic circuit includes one (or more) hydraulic pumps 50 driven by a second electric motor M2. It also comprises a hydraulic distributor 60 through which the various hydraulic actuators are supplied with hydraulic fluid, in particular the hydraulic cylinders 4. This also powers other hydraulic actuators (not all shown), such as those used to control the direction of the steerable wheels 10 and/or 11, those each arranged at a corner of the frame 2 to extend or retract the four stabilizing feet 19, and release the brakes of the wheels 10, 11. Advantageously, one or two hydraulic actuators (not shown) may also be provided, powered by the hydraulic distributor 60, for selectively locking and releasing the differential of one or both of the front and rear axles 12, 13 in the event of a slip of the wheels 10 and/or 11.

Alternatively, a plurality of electric motors M2 may be provided that drive one or more hydraulic pumps 50 of a common hydraulic circuit or separate hydraulic circuits. However, it is more economical to use a single hydraulic pump 50 and a single electric motor M2 to drive it.

The electric motor M2 is preferably dedicated to driving the hydraulic pumps 50 of the hydraulic circuit, and if there are more, all of them.

The aerial platform is devoid of internal combustion engines, whether for moving the aerial platform along the ground or for operating the lift mechanism 2 or other hydraulic actuators. In fact, the driving force is always supplied to the hydraulic pump by the electric motor M2. In other words, the driving force to operate the lift mechanism of the work platform is always provided only by the electric motor M2 (except, of course, for possible gravitational effects). The same is true for the other hydraulic actuators described above.

Similarly, the driving force for driving the wheels 10 and/or 11 and thus moving the aerial work platform along the ground is always provided only by the electric motor M1 dedicated to this function (except, of course, for possible gravitational effects), as the case may be.

The electric motors M1 and M2 are preferably AC (alternating current) electric motors, preferably three-phase, because they have better efficiency than other types of electric motors. They are powered by the battery 20 via respective inverters 41, 42 which convert the DC (direct current) voltage of the battery 20 into an AC voltage.

The aerial work platform is also equipped with on-board electronics 70, including for example a computer, for controlling the hydraulic distributor 70, the chargers 31 to 33, and the electric motors M1 and M2 through the respective inverters 41, 42. The communication link between the control electronics 70 and these components or at least the remote components may be done via a bus such as a CAN data bus complying with the ISO11898 standard.

The on-board electronics 70 are preferably configured to optimally manage the electrical energy consumption of the various components, in particular the electric motors M1, M2, in order to optimize the autonomy of the battery 20. In particular, it may be advantageously provided to limit the power peaks of the electric motors M1 and M2 by supplying power to the electric motors M1 and M2 step by step, for example during a command to lift the work platform 3 or to move along the ground. The on-board electronics may also be configured to apply power limit settings to inverters 41 and 42, and even inverter 22 as noted below, depending on the state of battery 20, such as its age or temperature.

If mounted on an aerial work platform, on-board electronics 70 may also be provided to identify the type of generator 40 in the event that the on-board electronics 70 are intended to operate with a different model of generator, thereby enabling the on-board electronics 70 to adapt the load curve to the maximum power that the generator can provide. Additionally, the on-board electronics 70 may be designed to automatically cause the generator 40 to start when the charge level of the battery 20 falls below a predetermined threshold. Of course, it may be provided that the operator himself has the possibility of starting the generator 40.

For reasons of user safety, it is advantageous that all the circuits of the aerial work platform, except the input of the chargers 31 to 33, operate at a voltage less than or equal to 50V, so that the nominal voltage of the electric motor is less than 50VAC and the voltage delivered by the battery 20 is less than or equal to 50 VDC.

Figure 5 shows power options available on the aerial work platform.

For charging from mains, the selector switch 80 allows the first charger 31 to be selectively connected to a single-phase cable or the like with a plug 34, as already mentioned in connection with fig. 4, for connection to a single-phase mains supply, or to a three-phase line for connection to one phase and a neutral line of a three-phase power supply, which cable connects the other two chargers 32, 33 to the respective phase and neutral line of the three-phase power supply.

The selector switch 81 is used to select a three-phase power supply from a cable with a plug 35 or the like, as already mentioned in connection with fig. 4, for connection to a three-phase mains supply or to a three-phase output of the generator 40 via a plug 82 and a corresponding socket 83.

A standard single-phase power outlet 84 on the work platform 3 may be supplied with the relevant country's single-phase mains voltage, advantageously enabling a user of the work platform 3 to connect an electrical appliance thereto.

The socket 84 is powered by electrical wires that extend down to the frame 1, for example along the elevator mechanism 2.

It may be provided that such a power cord may be powered by one or more of the following:

by connection to a single-phase mains supply, for example by means of a dedicated plug 85 or other suitable means,

by connecting to the output of a dedicated inverter 22, the input of which is connected to the battery 20, and/or

By being connected to the output of the generator 40, in particular in our example between one phase and its neutral line if it is a three-phase generator.

In implementation details, it is provided that the selector switch can selectively connect the power supply line as necessary. Where all three possibilities are provided, a selector switch 86 may be provided to connect to a plug 85 or the like, or to a power supply from the aerial work platform, a further selector switch 87 allowing selective connection to the inverter 22 or to the generator 40.

The connection to the generator 40 may be connected, for example, by a standard single-phase plug 88 to a corresponding single-phase socket 89, which socket 89 is connected to the phase and neutral wires of the generator 40, preferably by a switch 90. The socket 89 is preferably provided on the frame 1 and may be used as an auxiliary socket, which the user may also use to connect any electrical appliance.

It may also be provided that a standard three-phase power socket 91 on the work platform 3 is supplied by the three-phase mains voltage of the relevant country, thereby advantageously enabling a user of the work platform 3 to connect an electrical appliance thereto. The socket 91 is powered by electrical wires extending down the frame 1, for example along the elevator mechanism 2. The socket 91 is provided with a standard three-phase plug 92 for selective connection to a mains socket or to the output socket of the generator 40. Selector switches 80, 81, 86, 87 and 90 and inverter 22 may be controlled by on-board electronics 70, as already mentioned in connection with fig. 4, particularly upon command by an operator. Control buttons or the like may be provided on a control panel provided on the work platform 3 to energize the socket 84 and/or the socket 91 as appropriate. Similarly, provision may also be made to allow the operator to select the power source of the socket 84, for example at the control panel 75 on the frame 1.

Figures 6 to 8 illustrate the physical layout of the main electrical and hydraulic components on the aerial work platform.

As shown in fig. 7, the battery 20 and the chargers 31, 32, and 33 are located on a first lateral side of the frame 1, i.e., on the left side G in our example, with respect to the elevating mechanism 2. The chargers 31, 32 and 33 are accommodated in respective locations 61, 62 and 63 provided for this purpose, respectively. In the case of an aerial platform with only one or two chargers, locations 62 and/or 63 remain without their chargers 32 and/or 33. The battery management circuit 21 and the inverters 41, 42 may also be arranged on this side of the frame 1. These components are housed within a cover 82 visible in fig. 2 and 6.

As shown in fig. 8 (in which the wheel tires 10, 11 and the stabilizer feet 19 are omitted for convenience), the electric motor M2 and the hydraulic pump 50 are disposed on the opposite lateral side of the frame 1 with respect to the elevating mechanism 2, i.e., the right side D in our example. The hydraulic distributor 60 is preferably arranged on the same side. A control panel 75 is also provided behind which the control electronics 70 are arranged. A control panel 75 can also be seen in fig. 1. These components are housed within a cover 81 visible in figures 1, 3 and 6. Of course, another fixed or removable control panel may be provided on the work platform 3.

Since these components are smaller in volume than the battery 20, a position 39 is provided on this side of the frame for the removable mounting of the generator 40: referring to fig. 3, position 39 is shown without generator 40. Due to its weight, the generator 40 is preferably placed in its position 39 or removed from its position 39 by a forklift. Means are preferably provided for holding the generator 40 in its position 39 (not shown): the device may be of any suitable type. Advantageously, the generator 40 is provided with a locking device at its position 39 to prevent theft.

In the case of an aerial work platform for lifting a maximum load of 750 kg to a maximum height of 18 metres, the dimensions of the components are for example as follows:

the battery 20 has a nominal voltage of 48VDC and a capacity of 420A.h,

motor M1 is of the three-phase ac type, rated at 32VAC, 50Hz, with a maximum output of 6.3kW,

motor M2 is a three-phase ac motor rated at 32VAC, 50Hz, and a maximum output of 10.5kW,

the chargers 31 to 33 each accept as input an alternating voltage between 110 and 230VAC and respectively provide as output a voltage of 48VDC with a maximum power of 3KW,

depending on the version, the generator may be chosen to provide a single-phase alternating voltage of between 110VAC and 230VAC or a three-phase voltage of 400VAC, and to provide a maximum power of 6 kw to 9 kw, the capacity of its fuel tank being chosen between 10 and 30 litres.

With particular reference to figures 9 to 15, we will now describe in more detail an advantageous embodiment of the position 39 of the aerial work platform arranged to receive the electric motor 40 and the latter by means of a removable mounting.

As shown in fig. 3, the position 39 is located at the side of the frame 1. As shown in fig. 3 and 9, the location 39 is open on the outside of the aerial work platform. This makes it possible to bring the generator 40 into the receiving position and remove it therefrom in the direction of bringing in/removing F shown in fig. 9, in particular by means of a forklift truck. The direction F is preferably substantially horizontal and perpendicular to the side of the frame 1 where the receiving position 39 is arranged. In other words, the generator 40 is placed in the position 39 in its entirety by a horizontal movement towards the position 39, followed by a final lowering movement into the position 39. Alternatively, a door may be provided that closes the location 39, and then is opened during an operation to install or remove the generator 40 from the location 39.

The position 39 comprises a support 100 on which the generator 40 rests. In this example, the support 100 is a continuously extending surface below the generator 40, but it may be made in any suitable form, such as two separate support bars that are parallel and spaced apart from each other. In this example, the position 39 is arranged on the frame 1 at a position adjacent to the wheels 11 of the frame 1, such that when the generator 40 is in the position 39, a portion of the generator 40 extends out of the frame 1 above the wheels 11. This measure may limit the size reserved for the position 39 on the frame 1, in particular because the frame 1 does not normally extend below the wheels 10, 11 of the aerial work platform.

The support 100 comprises a positioning structure 101 for the generator 40 at the position 39. In the present embodiment, the positioning structure 101 includes two inclined planes 101a, 101b opposite in direction, and shifted from each other in a horizontal direction G perpendicular to the bringing in/removing direction F. In this case, the direction G corresponds to the longitudinal AV-AR direction of the frame 1. Each of the inclined planes 101a, 101b is a flat surface parallel to the bring in/removal direction F.

The inclined planes 101a, 101b are intended to cooperate with complementary structures arranged on the underside of the generator 40. This complementary structure is shown in fig. 12. In this case it comprises on the one hand the side 201a of the tube 210, which constitutes an angular passage for the fork of a forklift. This side 201a of the tube 210 is engaged with the inclined portion 101a of the support member 100. On the other hand, the complementary structure of the generator 40 comprises an inclined side 201b, which is arranged to cooperate with the inclined plane 101b of the support 100.

The form fit between the positioning structure 101 of the position 39 and the complementary structures 201a, 201b of the generator 40 allows to correct the situation in which the generator 40 is not centred in the direction G with respect to the receiving position when bringing the generator 40 into the position 39. This is illustrated in the top view of the frame 1 in fig. 6, in which the arrow F1 shows the actual bringing direction of the generator 40, laterally offset by a distance d from the ideal bringing direction F centered with respect to the receiving position 39.

Similarly, the form fit between the positioning structure 101 of the receiving position 39 and the complementary structures 201a, 201b of the generator 40 allows to correct possible angular deviations of the generator in a horizontal plane with respect to the bringing in/removing direction F when the generator 40 is brought into the position 39. This is also illustrated in the top view of the frame 1 in fig. 6, in which the arrow F2 illustrates the actual direction of entrainment of the generator 40, offset by an angle α in the horizontal plane with respect to the direction of entrainment F for the ideal orientation of the position 39.

It will be appreciated that the form fit between the positioning structure 101 of the position 39 and the complementary structures 201a, 201b of the generator 40 allows to correct both the lack of centering and the angular misalignment of the generator 40 in the same way.

This automatic correction of the centering and angular orientation of the generator 40 with respect to the position 39 advantageously allows to correctly position the generator 40 in the position 39, despite the imprecise handling of the approach of the generator 40 to the position 39 when it is then placed in the position 39. This facilitates placing the generator 40 in position 39, whether or not a forklift is used. For carrying it by a forklift truck, the generator 40 preferably comprises two tubes 210, 211 for the passage of the forks of the forklift truck, which are preferably arranged on the lower side of the generator 40: see fig. 10. The fork passage tubes 210, 211-or alternatively another structure for passage of the forks-are made non-through at the rear of the generator 40, which eliminates the risk of the forks of a forklift interfering with the wall 103 or any other structure of the aerial work platform behind the location 39.

It will be appreciated that the locating structure 101 and complementary structures 201a, 201b of the location 39 may be made in any other suitable manner. For example, the inclined planes 101a, 101b may be oriented in opposite directions rather than facing each other. Alternatively, there may be only one inclined plane in the position 39, the other being replaced by a shoulder similar to that in the case of the side 201a of the tube 210 of the generator 40. Other shapes than inclined planes are also possible. The positioning structure of the receiving location 39 may also be arranged elsewhere than on the support surface 100, for example at the side of the location 39.

The position 39 also comprises two notches 102a and 102b provided at the inclined planes 101a and 101 b. The generator 40 has two protrusions 202a and 202b on the lower side, which protrusions 202a and 202b engage the recesses 102a and 102b, respectively, of the position 39 when the generator 40 is in place in the receiving position 39: see partial side view in fig. 13. The protrusion 202a is particularly visible in the enlarged detail marked a in the bottom view of the generator in fig. 11.

The cooperation of the protrusions 202a and 202b with the recesses 102a and 102b with which they are engaged prevents the generator 40 from being withdrawn from the position 39 in the insertion/removal direction. In particular, this allows the forks of the forklift to be removed from under the generator 40 without the risk of accidentally removing the generator 40 from the receiving position 39 after the operation of placing the generator 40 on the position 39 by means of the forklift.

It should be appreciated that the retaining structure formed by the notches 102a, 102b and the complementary retaining structure formed by the protrusions 202a and 202b are merely one example of an implementation and may be implemented in any other suitable manner. For example, the notches 102an, 102b may be located elsewhere than the inclined planes 101a and 101 b. There may be only one recess and one protrusion. Configurations other than recesses and corresponding protrusions are also contemplated.

In general, it should be noted that the positioning structure 101 and the complementary structures 201a, 201b, and similarly the retaining structures 102a, 102b and the complementary structures 202a, 202b, may advantageously be fixed structures of the position 39 and of the generator 49, respectively, i.e. without any moving parts, which provides robustness and simplicity of implementation.

The position 39 also comprises a rear wall 103, the rear wall 103 acting as a stop for positioning the generator 40 in the receiving position in the direction of insertion/removal. In particular, this prevents the generator 40 from being pushed beyond the position 39 during the placing operation of the generator 40. The stop function may be achieved in any other suitable way, such as one or more pins protruding from the support.

The position 39 further comprises removable fastening means for securely holding the generator 40 in the position 39 and releasing it in order to allow the generator 40 to be removed from the position 39. In a simple embodiment, these fastening means may be threaded holes 104 for receiving fastening screws through holes in the legs 204 of the generator 40. Thus, after the generator 40 has been placed in the position 39, the removable fastening means prevent the generator 40 from leaving the position 39, while the retaining structure formed by the notches 102a, 102b and the complementary retaining structure formed by the projections 202a and 202b leave this risk remaining, in particular in the case of a high-altitude work platform circulating on uneven ground. It will be appreciated that the removable fastening means may be implemented by any suitable means other than a threaded hole for fastening a screw.

Location 39 may also include an exhaust gas conduit 106, which exhaust gas conduit 106 is positioned adjacent or abutting the exhaust outlet of the generator 40 when placed in location 39. The tube 106 is in this example arranged at the rear wall 103. The tube 106 is best seen in the partial view of fig. 14. This allows the exhaust air to be discharged away from the user, preferably under the frame 1.

As mentioned before, the generator 40 may be provided with locking means in its receiving position 39 to prevent theft. In particular, the position 39 may be provided with a structure or means for anti-theft locking or padlock of the generator 40, possibly cooperating in the position 39 with a related structure or means of the generator 40. A simple implementation comprises through holes made on the frame 1 corresponding to the through holes 215 at the level of the housing of the generator 40, so as to allow the fixing of the anti-theft padlock 300: see fig. 15. Alternatively, it may be a removable rod that can be held in front of the receiving position 39 for passage in front of the generator 40 of the position 36, which rod can be locked with the position 39. According to another embodiment, it may be a door in the closed position 39 and may be locked by a key lock or combination lock or the like.

The aerial work platform may include one or more cable feed guides, for example for feeding data link cables and/or power connection cables to location 39. In fig. 9, such a cable feeder shows only the power supply connection cables: see cable 105. A power connection cable 105 is provided to connect the generator 40 to the power circuit of the aerial work platform, for example to power a charger of the aerial work platform. The switchboard 220 of the generator 40 is provided for this purpose with the power socket 83 already mentioned with reference to fig. 5. In another embodiment, a generator 40 may be provided to directly power the electric motor and other circuitry of the aerial work platform.

The datalink cable (if provided) is used to connect the onboard electronics 70 of the aerial work platform 1 to the generator 40 at position 39. In this case, the switchboard 220 may have connectors 221 for connecting corresponding connectors of the data link cables of the aerial work platform.

The function of the on-board electronics 70 of the aerial work platform 1 in relation to the generator 40 has been discussed above with reference to figure 5. Generally, it is advantageous that the on-board electronics 70 can control the generator. More advantageously, the generator 40 may be arranged to be exclusively controlled by the on-board electronics 70. In other words, the generator 40 operates only as a slave to the on-board electronics 70. The generator 40 has no manual or similar control means for controlling the generator 40 independent of the on-board electronics 70, except perhaps an emergency stop button and protective means such as an automatic fuse. However, the generator 40 may also be devoid of an emergency stop button, whereby this functionality with respect to the generator 40 may also be managed by the onboard electronics 70 of the aerial work platform.

The generator's power board 220 may also be equipped with other sockets. In particular, a single-phase receptacle 289 powered by the generator 40 may be provided. The receptacle 289 may be particularly for a corresponding plug-not shown-connected to a cable to be brought to the location 39 through the cable feeder 105. This may be a cable with a plug 88-see fig. 5-for plugging into a receptacle 289. Or a cable with a plug 89 at the other end: see also fig. 5.

The distribution board 220 may also be equipped with a socket 290 for connection to mains electricity. In this case, the generator 40 preferably includes a selector switch that allows power to be selectively supplied to the power receptacle 83 from the receptacle 290 either through the generator 40 itself or when it is connected to mains. The selector switch is preferably controlled by on-board electronics 70.

The on-board electronics 70 may also include a wireless communication module to enable remote control of the generator 40. In particular, the on-board electronics 70 may be configured to allow remote activation and/or remote deactivation of the generator 40 via the wireless communication module.

The invention is of course not limited to the examples and embodiments described and represented, but a number of variants are possible for a person skilled in the art. Therefore, it can be applied to aerial work platforms having different types of work platform lifting mechanisms. This may be, for example, an articulated telescopic arm supporting the work platform 3 at its upper end. In this case it is also possible to include a turret mounted on the frame 1 to pivot about a vertical axis supporting the telescopic arm. In the latter case, electrical and hydraulic components may advantageously be arranged on the turret, in addition to the motor M1 for driving the front and/or rear wheels 10, 11. In this case, the detachably mounted position 39 for the generator 40 is preferably arranged on the turret.