STATION OF A CABLE TRANSPORT INSTALLATION AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING MAINTENANCE OF A STATION

Abstract

A cable transport installation is equipped with a car and a station; the station includes a moving device to move the car in the station; the moving device defines a running track of the car and moves the car; a platform is arranged on one side of the running track; the platform allows movement next to the moving device and enables operations to be performed on the moving device; the station defines a clearance for a clamp of the car to pass; the moving device is located between the platform and the passage clearance; an additional platform is movable between first and second positions; in a first position, the additional platform does not form an obstacle to progression of the car; the second position enables operations to be performed on the moving device.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a station of a cable transport installation and to a method for performing maintenance of a station of a cable transport installation.

PRIOR ART

To move people or goods, it is known to use cable transport installations. These cable transport installations comprise one or more stations as well as towers. A cable defines a running track for the cars to run between the stations. The cable is moved by means of a motor. One or more cars are attached to the cable and move along the running track. In the station, it is standard practice to define a running track of the car or cars by means of a plurality of rotating parts such as tyres or sheaves.

Like any transport installation, the cable transport installation is regularly subject to maintenance operations which in particular imply that the different component parts that form the station have to be accessible to one or more operators in order to analyse and if necessary repair the components forming the station.

For this purpose, it is conventional to form a station that is equipped with an internal platform that runs next to the running track of the cars in order to be able to observe and if necessary carry out work on the equipment that drives the cable and/or cars in the station. To ensure safety of the personnel, the moving parts and in particular the drive wheels and sheaves that drive the cable and/or cars are protected by a shrouding. The shrouding prevents the operator who is moving around on the platform from being caught up by a moving part.

The shrouding is mounted movable between a first position that ensures protection of the personnel and a second position that allows work to be performed on the moving equipment and in particular on the drive wheels.

However, when the operator has to work on the drive wheels, it is observed that the configuration is not always very practical as the running platform is located at a certain distance from the drive wheels. In some configurations, it is also apparent that the drive wheels and platform are separated by a beam that supports the rotation axes of the drive wheels. This has the result that, during maintenance operations, the operators cannot always work under the most convenient conditions.

It is also important to limit the size of the cable transport system station, which tends to involve trade-offs between the size of the station and ease of access to the different components of the station. The document EP1405779 discloses a station having an internal running platform and an external running platform present only in a curve. This configuration presents a large overall size with two broad platforms designed to receive operators. Outside the curve, it is particularly complicated to access the external part of the drive wheels.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

One object of the invention consists in providing a station of a cable transport installation that facilitates maintenance operations on the equipment that drives the cable and/or cars without increasing the overall size of the station.

According to one feature of the invention, a station of a cable transport installation provided with at least one car is proposed, the station comprising:

• • a moving device configured to move the at least one car in the station, the moving device defining a running track of the at least one car in the station, the moving device comprising a plurality of moving parts that are able to move the at least one car in the station;
  • a platform located on a first side of the running track, the platform being configured to enable an operator to pass alongside the moving device and to allow work to be performed on the moving device;
  • at least one shrouding mounted movable between a protection position and a operating position, in the protection position the shrouding at least partially covering the moving device to separate the operator present on the platform and the moving device and to prevent access to the moving device, and in the operating position the shrouding allowing access to the moving device;the station defining a clearance designed to let a clamp of the at least one car pass, the clamp attaching the at least one car to the cable, the moving device being arranged between the platform and the passage clearance.

The station is remarkable in that it comprises at least one additional platform distinct from the at least one shrouding, the at least one additional platform being mounted movable between a stowed position and a maintenance position;

• • wherein the stowed position is a position where the at least one additional platform does not form an obstacle to the progression of the at least one car on the running track and wherein the maintenance position is a position able to support the operator to enable an operation to be performed on the moving device;
  • and in that, in the maintenance position, the at least one additional platform is located on a second side of the running track facing the platform, the second side being separated from the first side by the running track in a vertical observation.

In advantageous manner, the at least one additional platform is mechanically connected to the at least one shrouding by a mechanical connection, the at least one shrouding in the protection position preventing movement of the at least one additional platform from the stowed position to the maintenance position.

In a particular configuration, when the at least one shrouding is in the protection position, the at least one additional platform is in the stowed position, and when the at least one shrouding is in the operating position, the at least one additional platform is in the maintenance position.

In an advantageous development, when the at least one additional platform is in the stowed position, the at least one shrouding is in the protection position, and when the at least one additional platform is in the maintenance position, the at least one shrouding is in the operating position.

Preferentially, the at least one additional platform is movable between the stowed position and the maintenance position only when the at least one shrouding is in the operating position, the at least one additional platform being able to be moved by means of a controller distinct from the at least one shrouding.

According to one embodiment, the controller is accessible from the platform only when the at least one shrouding is in the operating position and/or the controller is deactivated when the at least one shrouding is in the protection position.

In an advantageous development, the at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents the at least one shrouding from being moved out of the operating position.

Preferentially, the at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents movement of a cable designed to drive the at least one car. Alternatively, the at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents attachment of the at least one car to the cable when the car is detachable from the cable.

In another advantageous development, in the maintenance position, the at least one additional platform is arranged in a clearance space designed to be occupied by the clamp, the at least one additional platform forming an obstacle to running of the at least one car in the station.

Preferentially, the at least one shrouding comprises a plurality of shroudings installed following one another along the cable designed to drive the at least one car from one end of the station to the other, and the at least one additional platform comprises a plurality of additional platforms arranged following one another along the cable, an additional platform of the plurality of additional platforms being associated with a shrouding of the plurality of shroudings to form a maintenance section, each maintenance section being mechanically independent from the other maintenance sections.

Advantageously, the moving device comprises at least one wheel configured to move the car in the station, and the height of the additional platform is lower than the height of a rotation axis of the at least one wheel.

In a particular embodiment, in the stowed position, the at least one additional platform is totally on the second side.

In an advantageous development, the station comprises at least one sensor configured to detect the additional platform outside the stowed position and/or the shrouding outside the protection position and to transmit a first signal, and a control circuit connected to the sensor to receive said first signal, the control circuit being configured to stop the moving device or to prevent start-up of the moving device on receipt of said first signal.

It is preferable to provide a station where the shrouding in the operating position forms a guard rail as regards the additional platform in the maintenance position, the guard rail being separated from the moving device by the additional platform in an observation in a vertical direction.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a method for performing maintenance that is easier to perform than in the prior art configurations.

This result tends to be achieved by means of a method for performing maintenance of a station of a cable transport installation comprising the following steps:

• • providing a station according to any one of the foregoing configurations;
  • moving the additional platform from the stowed position to the maintenance position, the maintenance position supporting an operator working on the moving device, the stowed position being a position where the additional platform is outside the clearance for the cars to pass through the station.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other advantages and features will become more clearly apparent from the following description of particular embodiments and implementation modes of the invention given for non-restrictive example purposes only and represented in the appended drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a cable transport installation provided with two stations connected by a cable;

FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a side view of a station with a shrouding in a protection position and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a perspective view of the station with a shrouding in a protection position and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a top view of the station with a shrouding in a protection position and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a side view of the station with a shrouding in an operating position and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a perspective view of the station with a shrouding in an operating position and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a top view of the station with a shrouding in an operating position and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a side view of the station with a shrouding a part of which is folded back and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 9 schematically illustrates a perspective view of the station with a shrouding a part of which is folded back and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 10 schematically illustrates a top view of the station with a shrouding a part of which is folded back and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 11 schematically illustrates a side view of the station with a shrouding in the operating position a part of which is folded back and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 12 schematically illustrates a perspective view of the station with a shrouding in the operating position a part of which is folded back and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 13 schematically illustrates a top view of the station with a shrouding in the operating position a part of which is folded back and an additional platform in a stowed position;

FIG. 14 schematically illustrates a side view of the station with a shrouding in the operating position a part of which is folded back and an additional platform in a maintenance position;

FIG. 15 schematically illustrates a perspective view of the station with a shrouding in the operating position a part of which is folded back and an additional platform in a maintenance position;

FIG. 16 schematically illustrates a top view of the station with a shrouding in the operating position a part of which is folded back and an additional platform in a maintenance position.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

FIGS. 1 to 16 illustrate a cable transport installation and several views of a station 1 of a cable transport installation in different configurations. The cable transport installation comprises one or more stations 1, for example two terminal stations possibly with intermediate stations. The stations 1 are connected by a cable 2 or at least one cable 2. The cable transport installation is equipped with one or more cars 3. The cable transport installation defines a running track for the car or cars 3. The running track is totally or partially defined by a cable 2 or by several cables 2. In preferential manner, when the cable transport installation has several stations 1, the cable or cables 2 connect stations 1 to one another.

The cable transport installation comprises a cable drive means 4 that is configured to drive the cable 2. The cable drive means 4 has for example at least one motor. The cable drive means 4 can be located in the station 1 or elsewhere.

The car or cars 3 are attached to the cable 2 by a clamp 3a or at least one clamp 3a. Depending on the configurations, the cars 3 are attached in fixed manner to the cable 2 or are attached in detachable manner with respect to the cable 2. The clamp 3a is adapted accordingly.

The station 1 is equipped with a moving device 5 configured to enable movement of the at least one car 3 in the station 1, for example movement of the car 3 through the station 1. The moving device 5 partly defines the running track of the car 3 and in particular the running track in the station 1 and preferentially through the station 1.

For an operator to be able to move about easily in the station 1, the latter is provided with a platform 6. The platform 6 defines a path enabling the operator to move between the different parts of the station 1. The platform 6 is located on a first side of the moving device 5. When the running track defines a U-shape, the platform 6 is preferentially located on the inside of the running track, i.e. inside the U. The platform 6 is arranged facing the moving device 5, i.e. at the same height as the moving device 5 or substantially at the same height so that the operator can access the components of the moving device 5 in the standing position or preferentially kneeling down. The platform 6 is preferentially arranged so as to be farther from the components of the clamp 3a of the car 3 than from the cable 2 in order to reduce the overall size of the station 1.

The platform 6 is located at a height in order not to form an obstacle to ease of running of cars 3 in the station 1. In general manner, the platform 6 does not form an obstacle for the components designed to move the cable 2 and to the components designed to divert the cars 3 if present. The layout of the platform 6 and of the other components of the station 1 is arranged astutely so as to find the best trade-off between the size of the station 1 and the ease of performing maintenance operations. In preferential manner, the platform 6 is located above the gondola car or the chair lift seat when the cable transport installation is a gondola lift or a chair lift. The platform 6 is arranged in such a way as to enable the transport installation to function.

To protect the operator during operation of the cable transport installation, the components constituting the moving device 5 are not easily accessible or are not accessible by the operator moving around on the platform 6. The same is advantageously the case for the cable 2 and/or the part of the car 3 that is located near the platform 6, for example the clamp 3a.

FIGS. 2 and 7 illustrate an embodiment in which the moving device 5 is made inaccessible from the platform 6 by means of at least one shrouding 7. The shrouding 7 partially covers the moving device 5 so that the at least one shrouding 7 is located between the operator situated on the platform 6 and the moving device 5. In the illustrated embodiment, the shrouding 7 is in the form of an angle iron that prevents access to the components of the moving device 5 in a horizontal direction and also in a vertical direction. The shrouding 7 can have another shape or form. The shrouding 7 is preferentially made from metallic material.

To be able to perform maintenance operations, the at least one shrouding 7 presents a first position that is a protection position preventing access to all or part of the moving device 5 and a second position that is an operating position allowing access. Depending on the configurations, the shrouding or the shroudings 7 are installed movable or deformable between the protection position and the operating position. Preferentially, the shrouding 7 in the protection position and in the operating position does not form an obstacle to movement of the cars 3. In other words, the shrouding 7 is not located on the running path of the car 3.

Switching from the protection position to the operating position can be performed by deformation of the shrouding 7, by displacing the shrouding 7, for example by rotating the shrouding 7, and possibly by dismantling a part of the shrouding 7. It is advantageous to combine at least two of these embodiments. In preferential manner, switching from the protection position to the operating position results in shutdown of the cable transport installation and/or is only possible when the installation is shut down, i.e. at the very least the cable 2 is no longer running. The shrouding 7 can be equipped with a sensor 7′ that detects that the shrouding 7 is no longer in the protection position and/or can be equipped with a lock 7″ that prevents the shrouding 7 from being moved from the first position when the installation is not shut down, i.e. is in operation.

Preferentially, the moving device 5 is a moving device of a cable transport installation for cars 3 with detachable clamps 3a. The moving device 5 is then configured to move the cable 2 and the at least one car 3 separately over a part of the running track. The moving device 5 has a plurality of moving parts, preferably rotating parts that are designed to move the cable 2 and/or the cars 3 in the station 1. The rotating parts are preferentially wheels 5a and/or sheaves 5b that make the cable 2 or the cars 3 move. In one embodiment, one or more of the rotating parts are mounted idle. In another embodiment, one or more of the rotating parts are driven in rotation. It is also possible to have the sheaves 5b mounted idle and the wheels 5a that drive the cars 3.

As illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 16, the station 1 preferentially has a series of wheels 5a that perform driving of the at least one car 3 along the running track. The wheels 5a are arranged following one another to define a part of the running track.

As illustrated in FIG. 4 and in the other figures, the station 1 is equipped with one or more sheaves 5b that support or press on the cable 2. The sheaves 5b participate in moving the cable 2 inside the station 1.

The moving parts are installed following one another to define the running track. For example, the moving parts are aligned following one another to define a straight portion. In another embodiment, the moving parts are arranged behind one another to define a curve or another shape.

To facilitate running of the at least one car 3 in the station 1, it is advantageous to have one or more rails 5c, for example two rails 5c that support the car 3. In the station 1, the car 3 runs on the at least one rail 5c defining the running track for the car 3. The rails 5c support at least one pair of wheels of the car 3. Two facing rails 5c are separated by a clearance for the arm of the car 3 to pass. It is advantageous for the wheels 5a to be mounted on a beam 5d.

The platform 6 is laterally offset with respect to the moving device 5 and is situated outside the clearance space for cars to pass in the station 1. The offset arrangement of the platform 6 in the station 1 means that the moving device 5 is not easily accessible for the operator and that certain components of the moving device 5 become difficult to handle, in particular the wheels 5a. This results in the operator being able to find himself in an uncomfortable position when performing a maintenance operation. The clearance for passage of the cars represents the minimum space occupied by the car 3 running in the station 1 along the running track. The passage clearance corresponds substantially to the lateral space occupation of the car 3 and defines the volume in which a component cannot be installed as it will form an obstacle to running of the car 3. At the height of the moving device 5, the passage space is mainly or exclusively defined by the clamp 3a and the arm that supports the gondola car or the chair of the car 3.

To facilitate the operator's job, it is advantageous to provide a station 1 that is equipped with an additional platform 8. The additional platform 8 is a provisional platform, i.e. a platform that is used for one-off maintenance operations. The additional platform 8 is movable between a first position and a second position different from the first position. The first position is a stowed position, i.e. a position where the additional platform 8 does not form an obstacle to progression of at the least one car 3 on the running track. The second position of the additional platform 8 is a maintenance position, i.e. a position able to support the operator to enable maintenance to be carried out on the moving device 5. In the second position, the additional platform 8 is arranged on the second side of the running track facing the platform 6. The second side is opposite the first side with respect to the running track in a vertical observation. As illustrated in the different figures, the platform 6 and the additional platform 8 are separated by the running track of the car 3 in a vertical observation.

The additional platform 8 is a platform that is located on the other side from the moving device 5 to make maintenance operations on the moving device 5 easier to perform. The operator can move from the platform 6 to the additional platform 8 in complete safety, i.e. from the first side to the second side to be able to perform maintenance on the moving device 5 more efficiently with another observation point. The platform 6 enables an operation to be performed from one side of the moving device 5 whereas the additional platform 8 enables an operation to be performed from the other side of the moving device 5. The additional platform 8 is preferentially made from metallic material or from any other material able to support the user's weight and to provide a good durability.

What is meant by “additional platform 8 is arranged on the second side of the running track” is that the additional platform 8 is mainly located on the second side or even exclusively on the second side.

In preferential manner, in the stowed position, the additional platform 8 is arranged exclusively on the second side, i.e. the portion able to support the operator in the maintenance position is located exclusively on the second side. This makes the movement to switch the additional platform 8 between the two positions simpler to perform. This also limits the space occupation as regards the additional platform 8.

In the second position, the additional platform 8 is horizontal or substantially horizontal to make the operator's job safer. In preferential manner, the additional platform 8 has a surface that is larger than 1 m². Preferentially, the additional platform 8 is located exclusively on the second side.

In a particular embodiment, in the second position, the additional platform 8 is arranged in the clearance for passage of the cars and obstructs the clearance space. This arrangement makes maintenance on the moving device 5 easier to perform. In the second position, the additional platform 8 prevents the at least one car 3 from passing through the station 1. Advantageously, in the second position, the additional platform 8 occupies the space designed to be occupied by the clamp 3a of a car 3. In other words, if the car 3 is running, the clamp 3a will strike the additional platform 8. In preferential manner, the station 1 has a sensor 9 configured to detect the presence of the additional platform 8 in the second position and to prevent start-up of the cable transport installation when detection takes place.

In an advantageous embodiment, when the moving device 5 is equipped with wheels 5a that move the car 3, it is advantageous for the additional platform 8 to be located at a height that is lower than the height of the rotation axis of wheel 5a that is facing it. In even more advantageous manner, the additional platform 8 is at a height that is lower than the height of the wheel 5a that is facing it. In preferential manner, the difference between the height of the platform 6 and the height of the lowest area of the wheel 5a is less than 50 cm to make the wheel 5a easy to dismantle. Such an embodiment is illustrated in FIGS. 14 to 16. By shifting the additional platform 8 downwards, the operation to be performed by the operator is made easier. What is meant by “that is facing it”, is the wheel 5a that is facing the additional platform 8 in a vertical plane passing through the rotation axis of wheel 5a. In the second position, the additional platform 8 can be at a height that is equal to or lower than the height of the platform 6 in the area facing the running track perpendicularly as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 16. Preferentially, during movement between the first position and the second position, the additional platform 8 never reaches the height of the gondola car or of the chair.

When the additional platform 8 is in the stowed position, it is advantageous for the station 1 not to have a platform on the second side, i.e. a means able to support an operator and close to the moving device 5 to work in complete safety.

In an advantageous embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 12, the station 1 also comprises a roof panel 10. The roof panel 10 forms a roof on the top of the station 1. The roof panel 10 can define a supplementary platform 10a able to support the operator. The supplementary platform 10a is offset from the additional platform 8 in a first direction perpendicular to the running direction of the at least one car 3. The supplementary platform 10a is located at a lower height than the height of the additional platform 8 and offset to place the additional platform 8 between the plurality of wheels 5a and the supplementary platform 10a in a vertical observation. The roof panel 10 is designed to form the roof of the station 1 to protect the components of the station 1 against inclement weather, in particular rain and snow.

The additional platform 8 is distinct from the shrouding 7. Movement of the additional platform 8 is different from movement of the shrouding 7. For example, the shrouding 7 and the additional platform 8 are both mounted swivelling around two different pivot axes. As an alternative, the shrouding 7 and the additional platform 8 present different modes of movement chosen from swivelling, sliding and folding. The shrouding 7 can be achieved by an unalterable part between the protection position and the operating position or it can comprise an unalterable frame 11 between the protection position and the operating position.

In the particular embodiments illustrated, the shrouding 7 is installed swivelling around a pivot shaft 12 of the shrouding 7. The additional platform 8 is installed swivelling around a platform shaft 13.

In a particular embodiment, the shrouding 7 and the additional platform 8 are mechanically connected so that movement of the shrouding 7 results in movement of the additional platform 8 and/or movement of the additional platform 8 results in movement of the shrouding 7. Preferentially, movement of the shrouding 7 from the operating position to the protection position results in movement of the additional platform 8 from the maintenance position to the stowed position. More advantageously, movement of the shrouding 7 from the protection position to the operating position results in movement of the additional platform 8 from the stowed position to the maintenance position. Even more preferentially, the mechanical connection between the shrouding 7 and the additional platform 8 is such that when the shrouding 7 is in the protection position, the additional platform 8 is outside the maintenance position, more preferentially in the stowed position. Advantageously, the mechanical connection between the shrouding 7 and the additional platform 8 is such that when the shrouding 7 is in the operating position, the additional platform 8 is in the maintenance position.

The additional platform 8 can be connected to the shrouding 7 by means of a mechanical connection, preferentially a rigid mechanical connection, for example one or more articulated arms that fix the position of the shrouding 7 with respect to the position of the additional platform 8 and vice versa. The additional platform 8 can be connected to the shrouding 7 by means of one or more wire elements. For example, movement of the shrouding 7 to the protection position makes the wire element pull on the additional platform 8 to leave the maintenance position. As an alternative, it is also possible to provide a geared connection between the shrouding 7 and the additional platform 8 or any other suitable connection.

In preferential manner, the mechanical connection between the shrouding 7 and the additional platform 8 means that a part of the displacement force of the shrouding 7 is taken up by the displacement force of the additional platform 8. Preferentially, the movement of the shrouding 7 between the protection position and the operating position comprises an upward movement of the centre of gravity of the shrouding 7. During this upward movement, the centre of gravity of the additional platform 8 moves downwards, thereby limiting the musculoskeletal stresses on the operator.

In an advantageous embodiment, the shrouding 7 is installed movable independently from the additional platform 8 to avoid the operator having to make an effort to move the shrouding 7 and the additional platform 8 simultaneously. The shrouding 7 is moved between the protection position and the operating position without inducing movement of the additional platform 8 between the stowed position and the maintenance position. The additional platform 8 is moved between the stowed position and the maintenance position without inducing movement of the shrouding 7 between the protection position and the operating position.

To avoid the operator having to handle the additional platform 8 in an unsuitable posture, it is advantageous for the additional platform 8 to be moved by means of a controller 14, for example a knob, a crank-handle or a lever. Actuation of the controller 14 moves the additional platform 8 between the stowed position and the maintenance position.

It is preferable for the controller 14 to be deactivated when the shrouding 7 is in the protection position to prevent any movement of the additional platform 8. As an alternative or as a complement, the controller 14 is inaccessible from the platform 6 when the shrouding 7 is in the protection position to prevent any movement of the additional platform 8. For example, the controller 14 is located in the immediate proximity of the drive means and is covered by the shrouding 7 when the shrouding 7 is in the protection position. This prevents an undesired actuation of the additional platform 8 when the shrouding 7 is in the protection position. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates a first controller that is located between the moving device 5 and the shrouding 7 in the protection position. The first controller is in the form of a knob that actuates a motor designed to move the additional platform 8. FIG. 2 also illustrates a controller 14 in the form of a crank-handle. Rotation of the crank-handle moves the movable platform between the stowed position and the maintenance position. Preferentially, the additional platform 8 is provided with a lock that blocks the additional platform 8 in the stowed position when the shrouding 7 is in the protection position.

In preferential manner, the additional platform 8 in the maintenance position prevents movement of the shrouding 7 to the protection position and/or blocks the shrouding 7 in the operating position.

In an advantageous embodiment, the shrouding 7 is able to be moved out of the operating position only when the additional platform 8 is in the stowed position.

To block the shrouding 7 in the operating position when the additional platform 8 is in the maintenance position and/or to block the additional platform 8 in the stowed position when the shrouding 7 is in the protection position, different mechanical connections between the shrouding 7 and the additional platform 8 are possible. Cables can be used. The additional platform 8 in the maintenance position can form a stop preventing movement of the shrouding 7 in the operating position. The shrouding 7 in the protection position forms a stop preventing movement of the additional platform 8 in the stowed position.

In the illustrated embodiments, the controller 14 of the additional platform 8 has a lever, preferentially a pivoting lever that moves the additional platform 8. In a first lever position, the additional platform 8 is in the stowed position. In a second lever position, the additional platform 8 is in the maintenance position. Preferentially, the second lever position forms a stop preventing movement of the shrouding 7 from the operating position to the protection position.

In the illustrated embodiment, the shrouding 7 is installed swivelling around a pivot shaft 12 that is parallel or substantially parallel to the axis of movement of the car 3 in the area facing the shrouding 7 in a vertical observation.

In a particular embodiment, the station 1 is equipped with a sensor 7′ configured to detect whether the shrouding 7 is in or outside the protection position. The station 1 comprises a control circuit 15 that is connected to the sensor 7′. The sensor 7′ transmits a first signal following detection. When the sensor 7′ detects that the shrouding 7 is outside the protection position, the sensor 7′ transmits the first signal and the control circuit 15 is configured to stop running of the cable 2, for example to stop the drive means, for example the motor, and/or to prevent movement of the car 3. If the installation is already stopped, detection of the shrouding 7 outside the protection position prevents start-up of the installation. Preferentially, the at least one additional platform 8 in the maintenance position prevents movement of a cable 2 designed to drive the at least one car 3, or the at least one additional platform 8 in the maintenance position prevents attachment of the at least one car 3 to the cable 2 when the car 3 is detachable from the cable 2. Preferentially, the station 1 is equipped with at least one sensor 9 configured to detect the additional platform 8 outside the stowed position and to transmit a first signal to a control circuit 15 connected to the sensor 9 to receive said first signal, the control circuit 15 being configured to stop the drive means or prevent start-up of the drive means on receipt of said first signal.

In an advantageous embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14, the shrouding 7 moves from the protection position to the operating position and at least a part of the shrouding 7 forms a barrier designed to prevent the operator from leaving the additional platform 8 via the opposite end to the end near the moving device 5. A part of the shrouding 7 extends mainly in the vertical direction to form a protective barrier. The part forming the guard rail can be the part located above the moving device 5 when the shrouding 7 is in the protection position. The part forming the guard rail can be a first plate 7a. The part forming the guard rail is located at a greater height than the additional platform 8.

Preferentially, a part of the shrouding 7 is removable. When the shrouding 7 is in the protection position, the removable part is the part that is located facing the drive means along a longitudinal axis in the direction of the platform 6, for example a second plate 7b. This embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 9. As an alternative, the second plate 7b can be installed swivelling, sliding with respect to the first plate 7a in order not to be facing the additional platform 8 and to define a substantially horizontal plane that impedes access to the additional platform 8 by spanning the moving device 5.

In a particular embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12, the shrouding 7 is formed by a first plate 7a and a second plate 7b. The second plate 7b is assembled movable with respect to the first plate 7a, for example by means of a hinge. Preferentially, the second plate 7b is assembled movable between a protection position and a folded-back position. In the protection position, the second plate 7b extends downwards from the first plate 7a. In the folded-back position, the second plate 7b is pressed against the first plate 7a, against the upper face or against the lower face. The first plate 7a is parallel or substantially parallel to the second plate 7b.

In advantageous manner, the additional platform 8 is assembled swivelling between the stowed position and the maintenance position around a platform shaft 13 that is installed stationary with respect to the station 1. It is advantageous for the platform shaft 13 to be located above the clearance space for passage of cars 3.

In a preferential configuration, the two ends of the additional platform 8 are each terminated by a guard rail 16 that extends in a vertical direction and that is installed fixed with respect to the moving device 5. In even more preferential manner, when the additional platform 8 is installed in rotatable manner, the platform shaft 13 is installed fixed with respect to the guard rails 16. The two guard rails 16 form two obstacles at the two ends of additional platforms 8 to prevent the operator from falling. Preferably, the two guard rails 16 are installed immobile with respect to the moving device 5. It is advantageous to use the roof panel supports to act as guard rail 16.

In one embodiment, the moving device 5 comprises a plurality of wheels 5a, and the plane separating the first side and second side is defined by a vertical surface perpendicular to the respective wheels 5a that define the running track of the cars. The plane passes through the wheels 5a.

In another embodiment, the moving device 5 comprises a plurality of sheaves 5b, and the plane separating the first side and second side is defined by a vertical surface perpendicular to the respective sheaves 5b that define the running track of the cars by means of the running of the cable 2. The plane passes through the sheaves 5b.

In preferential manner, the shrouding 7 presents a different shape from a U-shaped configuration to reduce its bulk and avoid impeding access from the additional platform 8 when the latter is moved from the stowed position to the maintenance position.

In a particular embodiment, several distinct shroudings 7 are arranged behind one another in the direction of the running track between the platform 6 and the running track so as to provide a protection over the facing distance between the platform 6 and the moving device 5. Several additional platforms 8 are also used. Each additional platform 8 is associated with one of the shroudings 7 to form a maintenance section and enable an operation to be performed on a particular area of the drive track. Safety is ensured over the whole length of the platform 6 and it becomes easier to perform maintenance operations without increasing the overall size of the station 1. Preferentially, the at least one shrouding 7 comprises a plurality of shroudings 7 installed following one another along the cable 2 designed to drive the at least one car 3 from one end of the station to the other. The at least one additional platform 8 comprises a plurality of additional platforms 8 installed following one another along the cable 2, an additional platform 8 of the plurality of additional platforms 8 being associated with a shrouding 7 of the plurality of shroudings 7 to form a maintenance section, each maintenance section being mechanically independent from the other maintenance sections.

As illustrated, the station 1 can also be equipped with a bridge enabling the moving device 5 to be straddled to access another part of the station 1, for example an upper portion of the station 1.

Claims

1. Station of a cable transport installation provided with at least one car, the station comprising: a moving device configured to move the at least one car in the station, the moving device defining a running track of the at least one car in the station, the moving device comprising a plurality of moving parts able to move the at least one car in the station;a platform arranged on a first side of the running track, the platform being configured to enable an operator to pass alongside the moving device and to allow work to be performed on the moving device;at least one shrouding mounted movable between a protection position and an operating position, in the protection position, the at least one shrouding at least partially covering the moving device to separate the operator present on the platform and the moving device and to prevent access to the moving device, and in the operating position, the at least one shrouding allowing access to the moving device;at least one additional platform distinct from the at least one shrouding, the at least one additional platform being mounted movable between a stowed position and a maintenance position by means of a controller distinct from the at least one shrouding, the at least one additional platform being mounted movable between a stowed position and a maintenance position only when the at least one shrouding is in the operating position;

2. Station according to claim 1 wherein the at least one additional platform is mechanically connected to the at least one shrouding by a mechanical connection, the at least one shrouding in the protection position preventing movement of the at least one additional platform from the stowed position to the maintenance position.

3. Station according to claim 2 wherein when the at least one shrouding is in the protection position, the at least one additional platform is in the stowed position, and wherein when the at least one shrouding is in the operating position, the at least one additional platform is in the maintenance position.

4. Station according to claim 3 wherein when the at least one additional platform is in the stowed position, the at least one shrouding is in the protection position, and when the at least one additional platform is in the maintenance position, the at least one shrouding is in the operating position.

5. Station according to claim 1 wherein the controller is accessible from the platform only when the at least one shrouding is in the operating position and/or wherein the controller is deactivated when the at least one shrouding is in the protection position.

6. Station according to claim 1 wherein the at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents the at least one shrouding from being moved out of the operating position.

7. Station according to claim 1 wherein the at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents movement of a cable designed to drive the at least one car or wherein the at least one additional platform in the maintenance position prevents the at least one car from being attached to the cable when the car is detachable from the cable.

8. Station according to claim 1 wherein in the maintenance position, the at least one additional platform is arranged in a clearance space designed to be occupied by the clamp, the at least one additional platform forming an obstacle to running of the at least one car in the station.

9. Station according to claim 1 wherein the at least one shrouding comprises a plurality of shroudings installed following one another along the cable designed to drive the at least one car from one end of the station to the other, and wherein the at least one additional platform comprises a plurality of additional platforms arranged following one another along the cable, one additional platform of the plurality of additional platforms being associated with one shrouding of the plurality of shroudings to form a maintenance section, each maintenance section being mechanically independent from the other maintenance sections.

10. Station according to claim 1 wherein the moving device comprises at least one wheel configured to move the car in the station, and wherein the height of the additional platform is lower than the height of a rotation axis of the at least one wheel.

11. Station according to claim 1 wherein, in the stowed position, the at least one additional platform is totally on the second side.

12. Station according to claim 1 comprising at least one sensor configured to detect the additional platform outside the stowed position and/or the at least one shrouding outside the protection position and to transmit a first signal and a control circuit connected to the sensor to receive said first signal, the control circuit being configured to stop the moving device or to prevent start-up of the moving device on receipt of said first signal.

13. Station according to claim 1 wherein the at least one shrouding in the operating position forms a guard rail as regards the additional platform in the maintenance position, the guard rail being separated from the moving device by the additional platform in an observation in a vertical direction.

14. Method for performing maintenance of a station of a cable transport installation comprising the following steps: providing a station according to claim 1;moving the additional platform from the stowed position to the maintenance position, the maintenance position supporting an operator performing maintenance on the moving device, the stowed position being a position where the additional platform is outside the passage clearance for the cars to run in the station.