EP2722301B1 - Lift for persons with reduced mobility - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a device for persons with reduced mobility to access the establishments receiving the public whose entry includes at least one step. The present invention finds in particular an application to respond to legislative changes requiring institutions receiving the public to be accessible, inter alia, to persons with reduced mobility, independently.

Various devices are known that allow a person with reduced mobility to access an establishment whose entry has several steps. Such an elevator is proposed by the document US6435804B1 . For example, there is an elevator for a person with reduced mobility to allow access, from a sidewalk, to a room with an entrance, the entrance having an opening defined between a lower edge located at the sidewalk and a upper edge located above the sidewalk, the elevator to compensate for the difference in height between the sidewalk and the floor of the room. The elevator includes a platform for supporting the mobility impaired person and a movement mechanism for moving the platform between at least one lower position on the sidewalk and an intermediate position vertically from the lower position and the same height as the floor of the room.

Such an elevator is in particular proposed by the document EP 0 915 778 .

This type of device substantially encumbers both the interior of the room, when the elevator is not in operation, and the public domain surrounding the entrance of the room, when the elevator is in operation. In addition, the displacement of the platform of such an elevator is made possible by a parallelogram mechanism, which requires a high accuracy of adjustment, thus making the elevator difficult to adapt to different setup configurations.

Object and summary of the invention

The present invention aims to solve the aforementioned problems, among others, by allowing any type of establishment receiving the public, whose entry includes at least one step, to be accessible to people with reduced mobility, without persons with reduced mobility do not require assistance, and without the the establishment is hampered when the device facilitating access is not in operation.

This object is achieved by the fact that the elevator according to the invention comprises drive means for moving the platform vertically between the intermediate position and an upper position disposed vertically from the intermediate position and at the same height as the upper edge of the entrance.

Thus, this device is configured to equip premises intended to receive the public, whose entry includes at least one step, allowing persons with reduced mobility to access, autonomously, inside the premises from the sidewalk and, conversely, to leave the room to join the sidewalk, moving the platform between the low and intermediate positions to compensate for the difference in height between the sidewalk and the floor of the room.

In addition, once the lift has been used by the mobility impaired person, the platform can be moved to an upright position vertically above the intermediate position, at or above the upper edge of the elevator. the opening of the entrance of the room, in which it does not hinder the entrance of the room, nor does it obstruct access to the room for the valid persons, nor does it reduce the dimensions of the opening of the entrance of the room. local.

In particular, the user can access the interior of the room through the opening of the entrance, passing under the platform disposed in the upper position.

In addition, the elevator does not permanently interfere with the public domain surrounding the entrance to the premises. It can be installed quickly, and without requiring extensive work, in many different configurations of local.

The invention is described below in a series of alternative embodiments, which may be considered alone or in combination with one or more of the previous ones.

Advantageously, the platform comprises at least one lateral edge and an access ramp pivotally mounted on the lateral edge, the platform also comprising first pivoting means for pivoting the access ramp between an inclined position where it allows for a slope between the sidewalk and the platform, and a deployed position in which it forms a safety device for securing the person with reduced mobility on the platform.

Advantageously, the first pivoting means are arranged to bring the access ramp into an inclined position when the platform is in the low position and in the extended position when the platform moves between the low and intermediate positions.

By this arrangement, when the ramp is rotated in an inclined position, it allows a person with reduced mobility, arranged on the sidewalk, to access the platform via the ramp. Thus, and despite the height of the platform which can be an obstacle, for example, for a wheelchair, the person with reduced mobility can reach the platform independently.

By height of the platform, it is understood the height at which is located the face of the platform for receiving the person with reduced mobility, when the platform is in the low position. Thus, if the platform rests directly on the sidewalk when it is in the low position, the height corresponds to the thickness of the platform.

Moreover, in the deployed position, the access ramp extends transversely upwardly, for example vertically, from the platform, so as to constitute a safety device that keeps the person with reduced mobility on the platform. platform, when it moves between the low and middle positions, to avoid any risk of falling. The possibility for the access ramp to take an extended position also limits the congestion of the public domain surrounding the room, during operation of the elevator.

Preferably, the first pivoting means are arranged to bring the access ramp into a stowed position in which the access ramp and the platform are superimposed.

By this arrangement, the bulk of the assembly constituted by the platform and the access ramp can be limited, for example when the elevator is not used to allow access to the premises for a person with mobility scaled down. Thus, the elevator modifies in a limited way the external appearance of the equipped room and does not pose a risk of hurting people located near the entrance of the room.

Advantageously, the platform comprises an end edge and a barrier pivotally mounted on the end edge, the platform also comprising a first pivoting device for pivoting the barrier between a retracted position in which the barrier and the platform are superimposed, and an erected position in which it allows to secure the person with reduced mobility on the platform.

Advantageously, the first pivoting device is arranged to bring the barrier into the erected position when the platform moves between the low and intermediate positions, and in the retracted position when the platform moves between the intermediate and high positions.

By this arrangement, the barrier is an additional safety device that keeps the person with reduced mobility on the platform when it moves between the low and intermediate positions. It is therefore understood that the person with reduced mobility, located on the sidewalk surrounding the entrance to the room, accesses the platform via the access ramp mounted on the side edge of the platform and arranged in inclined position, the barrier, in erected position, simultaneously to maintain the person with reduced mobility on the platform and to signify that the entry of the premises is temporarily restricted to the person with reduced mobility.

The possibility for the barrier to be pivoted in the retracted position limits the size of the elevator, when it is not used by a person with reduced mobility, the platform moves between positions mid or high position or that the platform is kept in the up position, when the lift is not in operation, so as not to modify the external appearance of the room or to constitute a risk of injuring people in the vicinity of the entrance to the premises.

Preferably, the platform comprises an end edge and an apron pivotally mounted on the end edge, the platform also comprising a second pivoting device for pivoting the deck between an inclined position in which the deck s extends upwardly from the end edge of the platform, and an access position in which the deck extends in a manner substantially horizontal between the end of the platform and the floor of the room.

Advantageously, the second pivoting device is arranged to bring the deck in an inclined position when the platform is in the low position, and in the access position when the platform is in the intermediate position.

Advantageously, the second pivoting device is arranged to bring the deck into a retracted position in which the deck and the platform are superimposed.

By this arrangement, in the inclined position, the deck covers the steps when the platform performs the vertical translation between the low and intermediate positions; the apron thus provides additional security for the person with reduced mobility by reducing the space between the floor of the room and the platform.

Furthermore, when the platform is in the intermediate position, the deck covers the space formed between the floor of the room and the platform, and thus allows the person with reduced mobility to move between the platform and the platform. the floor of the premises, to enter or leave the premises.

The retracted position of the deck makes it possible to limit the size of the elevator, when the platform moves between the intermediate and high positions, or when the platform is held in the up position, so as not to modify the external appearance the premises or pose a risk of injury to people near the entrance to the premises.

Preferably, when the deck is in the retracted position, it is arranged on the platform.

Advantageously, the elevator comprises sliding means configured to slide the deck under the platform, or in a housing formed in the platform.

Preferably, the platform comprises a first lateral edge, a second lateral edge opposite to the first lateral edge, and first and second access ramps pivotally mounted respectively on the first and second lateral edges, the platform comprising also first and second pivoting means respectively for pivoting the first and the second ramps between an inclined position where the first and second access ramps make it possible to constitute first and second slopes between the sidewalk and the platform, and an extended position in which the first and second ramps form a first and second ramp; a second safety device for securing the person with reduced mobility on the platform.

By this arrangement, the elevator has a symmetrical appearance that allows to harmoniously modify the external appearance of the room, when the elevator is in operation.

Moreover, the presence of two access ramps, arranged in the deployed position, makes it possible to cope with different congestion situations of the public domain surrounding the entrance to the premises. Thus, it is understood that the person with reduced mobility can access the platform via one or other of the ramps.

Finally, it is understood that the two lateral edges of the platform are secured by the presence of the two access ramps, thus avoiding any risk of falling of the person with reduced mobility, when the platform moves between positions low and intermediate.

According to a first embodiment of the present invention, in a first arrangement, the first and second pivoting means are arranged to respectively bring the first and second access ramps towards each other above the platform. shape, when the platform is in the up position.

By this arrangement, the access ramps are inclined upwardly towards each other so that their edges opposite to the edges through which the access ramps are connected to the platform are brought closer together. one of the other, even meet. In the first arrangement of this first embodiment, the platform and the two access ramps thus brought back towards one another, when the platform is in the high position, are arranged to constitute a device for protection protecting the entrance of the premises against, for example, rain or snow.

It is therefore understood that the user who accesses the interior of the room without using the elevator according to the present invention, the platform being placed in a high position, is housed under the platform when it is located near the entrance, outside the room.

Still according to the first embodiment of the present invention in a second arrangement, the first and second pivoting means are arranged to respectively bring the first and second access ramps in an inclined position, when the platform is in the up position. .

By this arrangement, the access ramps extend on either side of the platform, from each of the lateral edges of the platform, when the latter is in the upper position. In this configuration, according to this second arrangement of the first embodiment, the platform and the two access ramps thus inclined are arranged to form a protective device protecting the entrance of the room, and extending from the side and the other of the entrance to the premises.

The shelter surface, formed by the platform disposed in the high position and by the access ramps extending on either side of the platform, thus extends along the wall of the room in which is formed the entrance.

Still according to the first embodiment, the movement mechanism comprises in a third arrangement a pivoting system for pivoting the platform between a horizontal position and a vertical position.

Preferably, the pivoting system is arranged to bring the platform upright when the platform is in the up position.

By this configuration, the size of the device when the platform is in the high position is reduced, the platform thus being folded against the vertical wall in which is formed the entrance of the room. One could also design a housing formed in the vertical wall, so that the platform is embedded in the housing when the platform is brought to the vertical position.

According to a second embodiment of the present invention, the drive means comprise at least one telescopic arm.

Advantageously, the elevator further comprises a box and a horizontal translation system for horizontally moving the platform between the upper position and a storage position in which the platform is contained in the box.

Advantageously, the box is intended to be embedded in the transom of the door, above the upper edge of the entrance.

By this configuration, the platform can be retracted into the box, when the device is not in operation, and when the platform is in the up position. Thus, according to this second embodiment, the elevator can be concealed when it is not in operation, so as not to modify the external appearance of the entrance and, more generally, the room accessible by the Entrance. This embodiment is particularly suitable for buildings whose external appearance can not be modified, for reasons, for example, heritage conservation.

The invention also relates to a room having an entrance and an access device in the room for a person with reduced mobility, the access device consisting of an elevator according to the present invention.

Finally, the invention relates to a method of moving an elevator for a person with reduced mobility according to the present invention, the method comprising a step during which the platform is moved vertically between the high position and the low position, followed by a step in which the ramp is brought into an inclined position, followed by a step in which the person with reduced mobility is positioned on the platform, followed by a step in the course of which the access ramp is brought into the deployed position, followed by a step during which the platform is moved between the low position and the intermediate position.

Preferably, the method also comprises a step in which the platform of the elevator according to the first embodiment is rotated in the vertical position.

Advantageously, the method also comprises a step during which the platform of the elevator according to the second embodiment is moved between the high position and the storage position in which the platform is contained in the box.

Brief description of the drawings

• la figure 1 représente schématiquement un premier mode de réalisation d'élévateur pour une personne à mobilité réduite selon l'invention, l'élévateur étant installé à l'entrée d'un local et la plate-forme se trouvant en position basse ;
• les figures 2A et 2B représentent l'élévateur de la figure 1 , la plate-forme se trouvant en position intermédiaire ;
• la figure 3 représente l'élévateur de la figure 1 , la plate-forme se trouvant en position haute dans un premier arrangement ;
• la figure 4 représente l'élévateur de la figure 1 , la plate-forme se trouvant en position haute dans un deuxième arrangement ;
• les figures 5 et 6 représentent l'élévateur de la figure 1 , la plate-forme se trouvant en position haute dans un troisième arrangement ;
• la figure 7 représente schématiquement un second mode de réalisation d'élévateur selon l'invention, la plate-forme se trouvant en position basse ;
• la figure 8 représente l'élévateur de la figure 7 , la plate-forme se trouvant en position intermédiaire ;
• la figure 9 représente l'élévateur de la figure 7 , la plate-forme se trouvant en position haute.

Other features and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly and completely on reading the following description. two preferred embodiments, given by way of nonlimiting examples and with reference to the following appended drawings in which:

• the figure 1 schematically represents a first embodiment of elevator for a person with reduced mobility according to the invention, the elevator being installed at the entrance of a room and the platform being in the low position;
• the Figures 2A and 2B represent the elevator of the figure 1 , the platform being in the intermediate position;
• the figure 3 represents the elevator of the figure 1 , the platform being in a high position in a first arrangement;
• the figure 4 represents the elevator of the figure 1 , the platform being in a high position in a second arrangement;
• the figures 5 and 6 represent the elevator of the figure 1 , the platform being in a high position in a third arrangement;
• the figure 7 schematically represents a second embodiment of elevator according to the invention, the platform being in the low position;
• the figure 8 represents the elevator of the figure 7 , the platform being in the intermediate position;
• the figure 9 represents the elevator of the figure 7 , the platform being in the high position.

Detailed description of the invention

In the first embodiment represented by the Figures 1 to 6 , the elevator 10 according to the invention is installed to allow access to a person with reduced mobility F, represented by a wheelchair drawn in dashed lines for the sake of clarity, a room M provided with an entrance E.

As shown in particular on the figure 1 , the entry E is delimited by two portions of walls L, L ' and has several steps M1, M2, M3; the horizontal portion of the step M3 is the floor of the room M. For the sake of clarity, the door for closing the entrance E is not shown in the various figures.

Entrance E of local M is accessible from the public domain located outside the premises, in this example from a sidewalk T. Moreover, the entrance E has an opening defined between an upper edge B1 located above the sidewalk T, and a lower edge B2 located at the sidewalk T.

In other words, access to the interior of the room M is achieved by passing between the lower edges B2 and upper B1; in the event that the entry E comprises a door, the upper edge B1 would thus be defined, for example and without limitation, by the upper frame of said door.

The elevator 10 comprises in particular a platform 12 configured to support the person with reduced mobility F and a movement mechanism 14 configured to move the platform 12.

• tel que représenté en particulier par la figure 1 , la plate-forme 12 de l'élévateur 10 peut tout d'abord se trouver dans une position basse, dans laquelle la plate-forme 12 est située à l'extérieur du local, sur le trottoir T ;
• tel que représenté en particulier par les figures 2A et 2B , la plate-forme 12 peut également se trouver dans une position intermédiaire située à la verticale de la position basse, à l'extérieur du local et à la même hauteur que le sol du local ;
• tel que représenté par les figures 3 à 6 , la plate-forme peut enfin se trouver dans une position haute, également disposée à l'extérieur du local, à la verticale des positions intermédiaire et basse, et à la même hauteur que le bord supérieur B1 de l'entrée E, l'accès à l'intérieur du local M étant permis en passant sous la plate-forme 12 disposée dans la position haute.

As will be more clearly seen in the description of the various figures, the platform 12 of the elevator 10 can assume different positions:

• as represented in particular by the figure 1 , the platform 12 of the elevator 10 may first be in a low position, in which the platform 12 is located outside the room, on the sidewalk T;
• as represented in particular by the Figures 2A and 2B , the platform 12 can also be in an intermediate position located vertically from the low position, outside the room and at the same height as the floor of the room;
• as represented by the Figures 3 to 6 , the platform can finally be in a high position, also disposed outside the room, vertically intermediate and low positions, and at the same height as the upper edge B1 of the entry E, the access to the interior of the room M being allowed by passing under the platform 12 arranged in the high position.

As shown on the figure 1 , the displacement mechanism 14 includes, for example and without limitation, two vertical elements 16, 16 ' respectively mounted on the wall portions L, L', on either side of the entrance E. The vertical elements 16, 16 ' each comprise a first 44, 44' and a second 46, 46 ' ends, the first ends 44, 44' being disposed near the upper edge B1, while the second ends 46, 46 ' are arranged near the lower edge B2. The displacement mechanism 14 further comprises a horizontal cross member 18 mounted above the entrance E, near the upper edge B1, each longitudinal end of the horizontal cross member 18 being secured to one of the first 44, 44 ' ends of the vertical members 46, 46'. The displacement mechanism 14 thus forms a frame surrounding the entry E, which does not change the dimensions of the entry E, such modifications may possibly complicate access to the room M.

The displacement mechanism 14 also comprises drive means 20, 20 ' free in vertical translation respectively in the vertical elements 16, 16'. For example and in a nonlimiting manner, the vertical elements 16, 16 ' are slides consisting of two spaced bars, the drive means 20, 20' being contained in the space formed between the two bars of the vertical elements 16, 16 . For example and without limitation, the horizontal cross member 18 contains a motor for vertically translating the drive means 20, 20 ' in the vertical elements 16, 16' of the displacement mechanism 14.

As shown on the figure 1 , the platform 12 has, for example and without limitation, a rectangular shape defining a first and a second lateral edges 22, 22 ', parallel to each other and arranged horizontally, in a perpendicular direction relative to in the plane defined by the entrance E of the local; the platform 12 also defines a first and a second end edge 24, 26, also parallel to each other.

As shown on the figure 1 , the platform 12 defines a horizontal plane P.

The platform 12 further comprises a first 28 and a second 28 ' access ramps pivotally mounted respectively on the first and second side edges 22, 22'; the platform 12 also comprises first and second 30, 30 ' pivoting means configured to pivot the first and second 28, 28' access ramps around an axis defined respectively by the first and second 22, 22 ' side edges of the platform 12, between an inclined position, an extended position and a stowed position, which will be detailed in the following description.

Furthermore, the platform 12 comprises a barrier 32 pivotally mounted on the first end edge 24, and a first device pivoting device 34 configured to pivot the barrier 32 about an axis defined by the first end edge 24, between a retracted position, in which the barrier 32 and the platform 12 are superimposed, and an erected position which will be detailed in the following description.

In addition, the platform 12 includes an apron 36 pivotally mounted on the second end edge 26, and a second pivoting device 38 configured to pivot the deck 36 about the axis defined by the second end edge. 26 of the platform 12, between an inclined position, an access position and a retracted position, which will be detailed in the following description.

Without departing from the scope of the present invention, it is possible to design an elevator 10 of which at least one of the first and second 30, 30 ' pivoting means or at least one of the first 34 and second 38 pivoting devices has a means pivoting assistance device, such as a cylinder, for example gas or electric, the pivot assistance means being configured to facilitate the pivoting of the access ramps, the deck or the barrier; it is also conceivable the presence of a control device allowing the person with reduced mobility to control the actuation of the first and second 30, 30 ' pivoting means and the first 34 and second 38 pivoting devices.

On the figure 1 , the platform 12 of the elevator 10 according to the first embodiment is in the low position. In this position, the first and second ramps 28, 28 ' are arranged in the inclined position, so that they make it possible to form a slope between the sidewalk T and the platform 12. For example and so non-limiting, as shown on the figure 1 , the platform 12 comprises support elements 13 which extend from the lower face of the platform 12. By lower face, it comprises the face opposite to the upper face of the platform 12 intended to receive In this example, the lower face of the platform 12 is therefore not in direct contact with the sidewalk T, the access ramps 28, 28 ', in the inclined position, thus enabling the person with reduced mobility F. to compensate for the difference in height between the upper face of the platform 12 and the sidewalk T, when the platform 12 is in the low position. We could also conceive, and without departing from the scope of the present invention, a platform 12 having no support elements 13, its lower face coming into direct contact with the sidewalk T, the access ramps 28, 28 'then taking a horizontal position or an inclined position when the thickness of the platform 12 is such that the person with reduced mobility F can directly access the upper surface of the platform 12. the ramps 28, 28 ', in an inclined position, thus allow the person with reduced mobility F, initially located on the sidewalk T, to position himself autonomously on the platform 12.

On the other hand, when the platform 12 is in the low position, the barrier 32 is disposed in the erected position in which it extends vertically upwards from the first end edge 24. The barrier 32 thus constitutes a safety device for keeping the person with reduced mobility F on the platform 12, while meaning that access to the room M is momentarily restricted to the person with reduced mobility F.

In addition, when the platform 12 is in the low position, the apron 36 is disposed in the inclined position in which the apron 36 extends from the second end edge 26 of the platform 12 ascendingly towards the entrance E, so as to at least partially cover the steps M1, M2, M3 of the entrance E, so as to limit the space formed between the platform 12 and the floor of the room M, such space constituting a danger for the person with reduced mobility F positioned on the platform 12.

As shown in particular on Figures 2A and 2B When the person with reduced mobility F is positioned on the platform 12, the first and second pivoting means 30, 30 'respectively lead the first and second ramps 28, 28' in the extended position, wherein first and second ramps 28, 28 ' extend vertically upwardly from respectively the first and second side edges 22, 22'. The access ramps 28, 28 ' therefore constitute additional safety devices making it possible to keep the person with reduced mobility F on the platform 12.

The drive means 20, 20 ' of the displacement mechanism 14 are then actuated to vertically translate the platform 12 upwards between the low position and the intermediate position.

Simultaneously or offset from the vertical upward translation of the platform 12, the second pivoting device 38 is actuated to pivot the deck 36 from the inclined position to the access position in which the deck 36 defines a substantially horizontal plane coincides with the horizontal plane P defined by the platform 12, the deck 36 thus filling the space formed between the platform 12 and the floor of the room.

When the platform 12 is in the intermediate position, the person with reduced mobility F can move into the room, crossing the deck 36 then disposed in the access position.

As represented by the Figures 3 to 6 , the platform 12 can then be moved to the upper position so as to allow access to the entry E of the premises to the valid persons; it is therefore understood that the high position is arranged vertically above the low and intermediate positions. In other words, viewed vertically, the intermediate position is between the low and high positions.

The figure 3 represents a first arrangement of the platform 12 when it is in the high position. Following the entry of the person with reduced mobility F into the room, the drive means 20, 20 ' are actuated so as to vertically translate the platform 12 between the intermediate position and the high position.

Simultaneously or in an offset manner, the first and second pivoting means 30, 30 ' are actuated so as to respectively pivot the first and second access ramps 28, 28' from the deployed position to the inclined position described above; moreover, the first pivoting device 34 is actuated so as to pivot the barrier 32 towards the retracted position, in which the barrier 32 is, for example and without limitation, folded down on the upper face of the platform 12 ; finally, the second pivoting device 38 is actuated so as to pivot the apron 36 to the retracted position in which the apron 36 and the platform 12 are superposed. For example and without limitation, when the apron 36 is in the retracted position, it is folded down on the platform 12. It would also be conceivable, and without departing from the scope of the present invention, the presence of horizontal translation means disposed on the platform 12, and configured to move horizontally under the lower face of the platform 12, or in a housing formed in the platform 12, the apron 36 in the retracted position.

So, and as represented on the figure 3 When the platform 12 is disposed in the upper position according to this first arrangement, the assembly consisting of the first and second ramps 28, 28 'and the platform 12 provides a surface extending from the portions wall L, L ', near the upper edge B1 of the entrance E, towards the outside of the room, so as to constitute, for example and without limitation, a shelter from the space formed outside from entrance E, while allowing access to local M.

The figure 4 represents the platform 12 disposed in the high position, according to a second arrangement.

Similar to the first arrangement, the platform 12 is translated vertically upwards between the intermediate position and the up position. Simultaneously or in an offset manner, the first and second pivoting means 30, 30 ' are actuated so as to respectively pivot the first and second access ramps 28, 28' from the extended position to a position in which the borders 29, 29 ' of the first and second access ramps 28, 28' opposite the edges through which the access ramps 28, 28 ' are secured to the first and second side edges 22, 22' of the platform 12, are brought one to the other.

Similarly to the first arrangement, the barrier 32 and the apron 36 are respectively brought into the retracted position and in the retracted position.

As shown on the figure 4 , the assembly consisting of the platform 12 and access ramps 28, 28 ' then has the shape of a right prism triangular base, the base being defined by the first end edge 24 of the platform 12 and one of the lateral edges of each of the first and second access ramps 28, 28 ', the assembly extending from the upper edge B1 of the inlet E, towards the outside of the room, to constitute, for example and without limitation, a shelter of the space formed outside the entrance E, while allowing access to the room.

As shown on the figures 5 and 6 , the platform 12 of the elevator 10 may be arranged in a third arrangement.

As shown in these figures, and in a manner similar to the preceding arrangements, simultaneously or offset from the upward vertical translation of the platform 12 between the intermediate position and the high position, the barrier 32 and the apron 36 are respectively disposed in the retracted position and retracted. Furthermore, the first and second ramps 28, 28 ' are arranged in a stowed position in which they are, for example and without limitation, folded over the upper face of the platform 12. In a similar way to the row position that can take the deck 36, one could also conceive, and without departing from the scope of the present invention, the presence of horizontal translation devices disposed on the platform 12, and configured to move horizontally under the underside of the platform 12, or in a housing formed in the platform 12, the access ramps 28, 28 ' in the stowed position.

The displacement mechanism 14 further comprises a pivoting system 40 mounted for example in the drive means 20, 20 ' contained in the vertical elements 16, 16', the pivoting system 40 being configured to allow the pivoting of the platform 12 between the horizontal position, in which it allows the movement of the person with reduced mobility F, and a vertical position in which the upper face of the platform 12 is arranged, for example without limitation, in look at the wall of the room M in which the entrance E is formed . As shown in particular on the figure 6 , the platform 12, when in the high position, can be folded in the vertical position so as to limit the size of the public space surrounding the entrance E of the room, while allowing the access to the premises for the valid persons.

One could also conceive, and without departing from the scope of the present invention, an additional arrangement not shown by the various figures, wherein the assembly consisting of the platform 12, access ramps 28, 28 ' in a stowed position , from barrier 32 into retracted position and apron 36 in the retracted position, would be maintained horizontally when the platform 12 is in the upper position, so as to provide a shelter from the outer area M local surrounding the entrance E.

It appears in particular from the preceding description that the pivoting of the access ramps 28, 28 ', the barrier 32 and the deck 36, when the platform 12 is translated vertically between the intermediate position and one of the different arrangements. from the high position, can be linked in different orders, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Thus, when the platform 12 is in the high position, access to the interior of the room M is achieved by passing under the platform 12; in other words, the user accessing the interior of the room M without using the elevator 10 passes into the opening formed between the platform 12 and the floor of the room M.

In the second embodiment represented by the Figures 7 to 9 , the elevator 110 according to the present invention also comprises a platform 112, a first and a second ramps 128, 128 ', a barrier 132 and an apron 136. The platform 112 also has, for example and non-limitatively, a rectangular shape defining first and second side edges 122, 122 ' and first and second end edges 124, 126. In addition, similarly to the first embodiment, the platform 112 includes first and second pivoting means 130, 130 ', and first and second pivoting devices 134, 138, configured to pivot respectively the first and second access ramps 128, 128' , the barrier 132, and the apron 136.

The elevator 110 also comprises a displacement mechanism 114 consisting of drive means 120, 120 ' disposed on either side of the entrance E of the room and which comprise, as shown in FIG. figure 7 , first and second telescopic arms 142, 142 '. Each telescopic arm 142, 142 ' has a first 144, 144' and a second 146, 146 ' ends, the first ends 144, 144' being disposed at the upper edge B1 of the inlet E, while the second ends 146 , 146 ' are fixed to the platform 112, for example and in a manner limiting, respectively on the first and second side edges 122, 122 '.

It would also be conceivable, and without departing from the scope of the present invention, an elevator 110 including any other movement mechanism 114, such as for example a set of cables and pulleys, for vertically translating the platform 112 between the low, middle and high positions.

As shown on the Figures 7 to 9 , the telescopic arms 142, 142 ' are configured to vertically translate the platform 112 between the low position and the up position.

The figure 7 presents in particular the elevator 110 when the platform 112 is in the low position.

Similarly to the first embodiment, the first and second ramps 128, 128 ' are then in the inclined position in which they form a slope allowing the person with reduced mobility F to access from the sidewalk T to the platform 112, while the barrier 132 and the apron 136 are respectively erected and inclined position.

The drive means 120, 120 ' are then actuated to vertically translate the platform 112 between the low position and the intermediate position.

As shown on the figure 8 on which the platform 112 is in the intermediate position, and similarly to the first embodiment, the first and second access ramps 128, 128 'are arranged in the deployed position so as to constitute a safety device for keep the person with reduced mobility F on the platform 112.

Furthermore, the second pivoting device 138 is actuated so as to pivot the deck 136 in the access position, to allow the person with reduced mobility F to pass from the platform 112 to the floor of the room.

Once the person with reduced mobility F has accessed the room, the platform 112 of the elevator 110 is translated vertically upwards between the intermediate position and the high position, by actuating the drive means 120, 120 ' .

As shown in particular on the figure 9 , the elevator 110 further comprises a box 148 disposed within the room, at the upper edge B1 of the entrance E; the elevator 110 further comprises a horizontal translation system 150 for horizontally translating the platform 112 between the high position and a position in which the platform 112 is contained in the box 148.

For example and without limitation, the box 148 is embedded in the transom of the entrance E, inside the room, near the upper edge B1.

One could also design a local M configured so that the box 148 can be simply placed, for example on the roof of room M.

As shown on the figure 9 When the elevator 110 is not used to allow access to the input E of the room for the person with reduced mobility F, the lift 110 can thus be stored in the casing 148 so as not to modify the external appearance of the entrance E of the room.

It therefore appears that, simultaneously or offset from the upward vertical translation of the platform 112 between the intermediate and high positions, the access ramps 128, 128 ', the barrier 132 and the deck 136 are pivoted respectively to the stowed position, the retracted position and the retracted position, so as to limit the bulk of the elevator 110 on the public space.

The person with reduced mobility F will of course be able to leave the room M by means of the elevator 10, 110, according to the steps previously described with the observation of the different figures, the elevator 10, 110 in front, before leaving the room of the person with reduced mobility F, be translated vertically downwards from the high position to the intermediate position. It is also understood that, prior to this vertical translation, the platform 12, 112, must be pivoted from the vertical position to the horizontal position, by means of the pivoting system 40, or translated horizontally from the stored position in the box 148 to the high position, by means of the horizontal translation system 150, depending on whether the elevator 10, 110 is consisting of the first embodiment in the third arrangement or the second embodiment of the present invention.

As it appears from the observation of the various figures, the platform 12, 112 encumbrates the public space located outside the entrance E , and in particular the sidewalk T, only during the time necessary to the platform 12, 112 to be translated vertically between the low and high positions.

The elevator 10, 110 according to the present invention may, for example, be operated from inside the room; it would also be conceivable, and without departing from the scope of the present invention, an actuating device disposed outside the room M, near the entrance E, through which the person with reduced mobility F could require operating the elevator 10, 110.

All of the above descriptions are given by way of example and are not limitative of the invention.

In particular, the invention, although particularly suitable for people with reduced mobility, can just as easily be used for people walking a stroller or for merchants with heavy loads to enter the premises.

Claims (21)

1. A lift (10, 110) for a person of reduced mobility (F) in order to make access possible from a sidewalk (T) to a premises (M) having an entrance (E), the entrance having an opening defined between a bottom edge (B2) situated at the level of the sidewalk and a top edge (B1) situated above the sidewalk, said lift serving to compensate for a difference in height between the sidewalk and the floor of the premises, said lift comprising a platform (12, 112) for supporting the person of reduced mobility and a drive mechanism (14, 114) for moving said platform between at least a low position situated on the sidewalk and an intermediate position situated vertically above the low position and at the same height as the floor of the premises, said lift being characterized in that the drive mechanism comprises drive means (20, 20', 120, 120') for moving said platform vertically between the intermediate position and a high position arranged vertically above the intermediate position and at the same height as the top edge of the entrance.
2. A lift (10, 110) according to claim 1, characterized in that the platform has at least one side edge (22, 22', 122, 122') and an access ramp (28, 28', 128, 128') pivotally mounted to said side edge, said platform also including first pivot means (30, 30', 130, 130') enabling the access ramp to be pivoted between a sloping position in which it serves to constitute a slope between the sidewalk and the platform, and a deployed position in which it forms a safety device for making safe the person of reduced mobility on the platform.
3. A lift (10, 110) according to claim 2, characterized in that said first pivot means are arranged to bring said access ramp into the sloping position when the platform is in its low position and into the deployed position when the platform moves between the low and intermediate positions.
4. A lift (10, 110) according to claim 2 or claim 3, characterized in that the first pivot means are arranged to bring said access ramp into a stowed position in which the access ramp and the platform are superposed.
5. A lift (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the platform has an end margin (24, 124) and a barrier (32, 132) pivotally mounted on said end margin, said platform also having a first pivot device (34, 134) enabling said barrier to be pivoted between a retracted position in which the barrier and the platform are superposed, and an erected position in which it makes safe the person of reduced mobility on the platform.
6. A lift (10, 110) according to claim 5, characterized in that the first pivot device is arranged to bring said barrier into the erected position when the platform moves between the low and intermediate positions, and into the retracted position when the platform moves between the intermediate and high positions.
7. A lift (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the platform includes an end margin (26, 126) and a deck (36, 136) pivotally mounted on said end margin, said platform also having a second pivot device (38, 138) enabling said deck to be pivoted between an inclined position in which the deck extends upwards from the end margin of the platform, and an access position in which the deck extends horizontally between the end margin of the platform and the floor of the premises.
8. A lift (10, 110) according to claim 7, characterized in that the second pivot device is arranged to bring said deck into the inclined position when the platform is in its low position and into the access position when the platform is in the intermediate position.
9. A lift (10, 110) according to claim 7 or claim 8, characterized in that the second pivot device is arranged to bring the deck into an on-board position in which the deck and the platform are superposed.
10. A lift (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the platform has a first side edge (22, 122), a second side edge (22', 122') opposite from the first side edge, and first and second access ramps (28, 128, 28', 128') pivotally mounted respectively on the first and second side edges, said platform also having first and second pivot means (30, 130, 30', 130') respectively enabling the first and second access ramps to be pivoted between a sloping position in which the first and second access ramps serve to constitute first and second slopes between the sidewalk and the platform, and a deployed position in which the first and second access ramps form first and second safety devices for making safe the person of reduced mobility on the platform.
11. A lift (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that said first and second pivot means (30, 30') are arranged respectively to bring said first and second access ramps (28, 28') towards each other over the platform (12) when the platform is in the high position.
12. A lift (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that said first and second pivot means (30, 30') are arranged respectively to bring said first and second access ramps (28, 28') into the sloping position, when the platform is in the high position.
13. A lift (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the drive mechanism further comprises a pivot system (40) enabling the platform to be pivoted between a horizontal position and a vertical position.
14. A lift (10) according to claim 13, characterized in that the pivot system (40) is arranged to bring the platform into the vertical position when the platform is in the high position.
15. A lift (110) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the drive means (120, 120') comprise at least one telescopic arm (142, 142').
16. A lift (110) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 or according to claim 15, characterized in that it further includes a box (148) and a horizontal movement system (150) enabling the platform (112) to be moved horizontally between the high position and a stowage position in which the platform is contained in the box.
17. A lift (110) according to claim 16, characterized in that said box is for receiving in the fanlight of the door, above the top edge (B1) of the entrance.
18. Premises (M) including an entrance (E) and an access device for giving access into the premises for a person of reduced mobility, the premises being characterized in that the access device is constituted by a lift (10, 110) according to any one of claims 1 to 17.
19. A movement method for moving a lift (10, 110) for a person of reduced mobility according to any one of claims 1 to 17 and according to claim 2, the method being characterized in that it comprises a step during which the platform is moved vertically between the high position and the low position, followed by a step during which the access ramp is brought into the sloping position, followed by a step during which the person of reduced mobility is positioned on the platform, followed by a step during which the access ramp is brought to the deployed position, followed by a step during which the platform is moved between the low position and the intermediate position.
20. A movement method according to claim 19 and according to claim 13, characterized in that it also includes a step during which the platform (12) is pivoted into the vertical position.
21. A movement method according to claim 19 and according to claim 16, characterized in that it also includes a step during which the platform (112) is moved between the high position and the stowage position in which the platform is contained in the box (148).

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