WO2022229738A1

WO2022229738A1 - Variable footprint apparatus for lifting containers

Info

Publication number: WO2022229738A1
Application number: PCT/IB2022/052944
Authority: WO
Inventors: Giancarlo Bonfiglioli
Original assignee: Acha S.R.L.
Priority date: 2021-04-30
Filing date: 2022-03-30
Publication date: 2022-11-03

Abstract

A variable footprint apparatus (201, 501, 501 ', 501 ") for lifting containers is described, comprising: a pair of columns (255, 275, 300, 555, 575, 600), each of which developing along a vertical direction of development (A), ground support elements (280, 305, 580, 605) connected to a lower portion of the columns (255, 275, 300, 555, 575, 600), and a crosspiece (320, 330, 620, 630), extending along a direction of development (B) transverse to the direction of development (A) and provided with a first end associated with a column of the pair of columns and a second end associated with the other column of the pair of columns, wherein at least one between a column of the pair of columns and the crosspiece is of the telescopic type and comprises a male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a) and a female section (830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b), slidably associated in such a way as to be selectively moved closer to/away from each other along the respective direction of development (A, B), wherein said male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a) comprises a protrusion (900) or an indentation (905) extending longitudinally along the respective direction of development (A, B) and transversely in a direction perpendicular to the direction of development (A, B), and wherein said female section (830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b) comprises a portion conjugated (901, 906) to said protrusion (900) or indentation (905) so as to form a prismatic connection therewith defining a sliding axis parallel to the respective direction of development (A, B).

Description

VARIABLE FOOTPRINT APPARATUS FOR LIFTING CONTAINERS

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention falls within the scope of apparatuses for handling containers. In particular, the invention relates to container handling crane (ISO) of the variable footprint type.

PRIOR ART

Cranes for handling containers are known. In particular, they are known cranes provided with variable footprint apparatuses, which are particularly advantageous in that they allow to vary the crane's dimensions so that it can be adapted to different types of container. The apparatuses of these cranes are usually provided with a plurality of columns that are designed to support container transport apparatuses, which are often provided with a system of ropes and hooks connecting the transport apparatus with the container, so that it can be lifted and handled.

The apparatuses of this type also comprise a plurality of crosspieces, connecting at least two of the columns of the variable footprint apparatuses.

In the case of variable footprint apparatuses, therefore, the columns and crosspieces of the cranes are usually of the telescopic type and thus allow the crane's footprint to be varied.

As regards telescopic columns and crosspieces, they usually comprise a male and a fe male section, which are associated in a sliding manner. They can therefore be moved closer to or away from each other, and the male section is usually designed to slide inside a through-hole obtained in the female section.

A solution according to such characteristics does not however allow all types of loads to be lifted and handled.

In fact, when in use, the apparatus and in particular the columns and crosspieces thereof are subjected to high bending and torsion forces and in the case of containers and in general in the case of particularly heavy loads, these types of forces tend to affect the structural stability of the apparatus and the crane.

An object of the present invention is to solve the aforesaid problems of the apparatuses of the prior art.

Such object is achieved by the features of the invention indicated in the independent claim. The dependent claims outline preferred and/or particularly advantageous aspects of the invention.

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

In particular, the invention makes available a variable footprint apparatus for lifting containers comprising:

- a pair of columns, each of which developing along a vertical direction of development,

- ground support elements connected to a lower portion of the columns

- a crosspiece, developing along a development direction transverse to the direction of development and provided with a first end associated with one column of the pair of columns and a second end associated with the other column of the pair of columns, in which at least one of the columns of the pair and the crosspiece is telescopic and comprises: a male section and a female section, slidably associated in such a way as to be selectively moved closer to/away from each other along the respective direction of development (A, B), wherein said male section comprises a protrusion or indentation extending longitudinally along the respective direction of development and transversely in a direction perpendicular to the direction of development and in which the female section comprises a portion conjugated to said protrusion or indentation so as to form therewith a prismatic connection defining a sliding axis parallel to the direction of development.

Thanks to this solution, a variable footprint apparatus for handling containers is made available, which is more functional than apparatuses of the prior art, since thanks to the presence of a prismatic connection between the male and female sections, the columns and crosspieces of the apparatus are designed in such a way as to be particularly resistant to bending and torsion forces due to the size and load of the containers.

Such a solution also makes the aforesaid apparatus (and with it, the crane itself) particularly versatile, as it is suitable for uses with greater loads than prior art devices. According to an aspect of the invention, the variable footprint apparatus may comprise a linear actuator provided with a first axial end associated with the male section and a second axial end associated with the female section and configured to move the male section and the female section closer to/away from each other along the respective direction of development. According to this aspect, the linear actuator may be at least partially accommodated in the protrusion or indentation of the male section.

According to such an aspect, the linear actuator may be entirely accommodated in the protrusion or indentation of the male section.

These aspects give the invention a particularly advantageous design in that they contribute to making the apparatus more compact, particularly when it is in the transport configuration, and consequently contribute to making it more easily transportable than the prior art apparatuses.

According to another aspect of the invention, the male section of the telescopic column and/or crosspiece may comprise, along an entire portion thereof coupled to the female section, a cross-section provided with a base portion having a convex polygonal shape and a secondary portion, which protrudes externally from the base portion in the case wherein the male section comprises the protrusion or internally to the base portion in the case wherein the male section comprises the aforesaid indentation.

The telescopic nature of the columns and crosspieces according to this aspect of the invention makes available a particularly compact and rational solution and also contributes to further facilitating the transport of the apparatus by reducing its footprint, particularly when it is in the transport configuration.

According to a further aspect of the invention, the female section may comprise, along an entire portion thereof coupled to the male section, a cross-section having an inner perimeter that surrounds to measure an outer perimeter of the cross-section of the male section.

Such a solution further contributes to improving the structural stability of the prior art apparatuses. In particular, the use of a female section surrounding the male section along an external perimeter makes the columns and crosspieces of the male section less subject to the bending forces due to the weight of the container and to the torsion forces that may occur during the transport of the containers.

According to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the outer perimeter of the male section may comprise:

- a first section and an opposite second section which are straight and parallel to each other, each one provided with a first longitudinal end and an opposite second longitudinal end, - a third straight section connecting the first longitudinal ends of the first section and second section,

- a fourth straight section developing from the second longitudinal end of the first section perpendicular thereto and in the direction moving closer to the second section,

- a fifth straight section extending from a longitudinal end of the fourth section opposite to the first section, perpendicular thereto, and in the direction moving away from the third section,

- a sixth straight section developing from a longitudinal end of the fifth section opposite to the fourth section, perpendicular thereto, and in the direction moving closer to the second section,

- a seventh straight section developing from a longitudinal end of the sixth section opposite to the fifth section, perpendicular thereto, and in the direction moving closer to the third section until it intersects an imaginary line that connects the second end of the first section with the second end of the second section, and

- an eighth straight section developing from one longitudinal end of the seventh section and connecting said seventh section to the second longitudinal end of the second section.

The design of the male member, and the corresponding female member, according to the aforesaid characteristics makes the solution particularly neat as well as advantageously resistant to external forces.

According to instead an aspect of the invention alternative to the preceding one, the outer perimeter of the male section may comprise:

- a first section and an opposite second section which are straight and parallel to each other, each one provided with a first longitudinal end and an opposite second longitudinal end,

- a third straight section connecting the first longitudinal ends of the first section and second section,

- a fifth straight section developing from a longitudinal end of the fourth section opposite to the first section, perpendicular thereto, and in the direction moving closer to the third section, - a sixth straight section developing from a longitudinal end of the fifth section opposite to the fourth section, perpendicular thereto, and in the direction moving closer to the second section,

According to such alternative aspects of the invention, the apparatus is considerably improved by a particularly functional and rational design, and for this reason also significantly cheaper than the prior art devices.

According to yet another aspect of the invention, the cross-section of the actuator may be internally comprised in a portion of the cross-section of the male section between the fifth section, the sixth section, the seventh section and an imaginary line connecting the end of the fourth section from which the fifth section develops and the longitudinal end of the seventh section from which the eighth section develops.

Thanks to this, both in case the device has a protrusion of the male and female sections, and in case it comprises an indentation thereof, the space in which the actuator is accommodated makes the device more compact and also facilitates the possible assembly and disassembly if, for example, the actuator and/or the male and female sections are damaged and need to be replaced.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further characteristics and advantages of the invention will become clear from reading the following description provided by way of non-limiting example, with the aid of the figures illustrated in the accompanying tables.

Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of a container handling system according to the invention, comprising a container handling apparatus according to the invention, illustrated in a step of handling a container by land.

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

Figure 3 is a schematic side view of the container handling system of the preceding figures, illustrated in a step of picking up or unloading a container with respect to the carriage of an articulated truck.

Figure 4 is a schematic side view of the container handling apparatus of the preceding figures, illustrated in a transport configuration while being transported on the carriage of an articulated truck.

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

Figure 6 is a schematic plan view illustrating a step in the passage of the apparatus from an operating configuration to a transport configuration.

Figure 7 is a schematic plan view of a tractor of the system of the preceding figures. Figure 8 is a schematic plan view of an alternative embodiment of the apparatus of the preceding figures in which the second crosspiece is telescopic.

Figure 9 is a schematic plan view of the system of the preceding figures in which the tractor is placed laterally to the apparatus and container.

Figure 10 is a schematic plan view of a container handling system according to the invention, comprising a container handling apparatus according to the invention, illustrated in a step of handling a container by land.

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

Figure 12 is a schematic side view of the container handling system of the preceding figures, illustrated in a step of picking up or unloading a container with respect to the carriage of an articulated truck.

Figure 13 is a schematic side view of the container handling apparatus of the preceding figures, illustrated in a transport configuration while being transported on the carriage of an articulated truck.

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

Figure 15 is a schematic plan view showing the apparatus in a transport configuration. Figure 16 is a schematic plan view of a tractor of the system of the preceding figures. Figure 17 is a schematic plan view of an alternative embodiment of the system according to the invention, illustrated in a step of handling a container by land.

Figure 18 is a schematic plan view of an apparatus of the system of Figure 17, illustrated in a transport configuration.

Figure 19 is a schematic plan view of an alternative embodiment of the apparatus according to the invention. Figure 20 is a schematic section view of a telescopic column or crosspiece, illustrating a characteristic shape of one of the first column, second column, third column, first crosspiece or second crosspiece of crane embodiments according to the invention. Figure 21 is a schematic plan view of a male section of the telescopic column or crosspiece of Figure 20.

Figure 22 is a schematic plan view of a female section of the telescopic column or crosspiece of Figure 20.

Figure 23 is a schematic section view of a telescopic column or crosspiece, illustrating an alternative characteristic shape of one of the first column, second column, third column, first crosspiece or second crosspiece of crane embodiments according to the invention. Figure 24 is a schematic plan view of a male section of the telescopic column or crosspiece of Figure 23.

Figure 25 is a schematic plan view of a female section of the telescopic column or crosspiece of Figure 23.

BEST MODE OF THE INVENTION

With particular reference to figures 1 - 9, a system for handling containers 205 (ISO containers), in particular of the type capable of moving autonomously along roads and highways open to the public, has been globally indicated with 200. In the illustrated embodiment, there is a system 200 capable of handling a single container, however, with appropriate dimensional modifications of the system well within the reach of the person skilled in the art, the inventive concept underlying the system can be adapted to transport two containers stacked vertically one on top of the other.

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

The system 200 comprises a tractor 210, i.e., a self-propelled vehicle suitable for land transportation, which comprises a chassis 215 to which at least one pair of drive and steering wheels 220 or one pair of drive wheels and one pair of steering wheels (and possibly, generally, also at least one pair of idle wheels 225) are associated.

The tractor illustrated is that of an articulated vehicle, i.e. a self-propelled vehicle adapted to transport carriages resting on the ground by means of idle wheels, however it is not excluded that the tractor may be another self-propelled vehicle, such as a forklift. It is specified that a carriage is defined as a frame having a flat upper surface for supporting goods, for example a container, and to which a plurality of ground support wheels, all of which are idle wheels, is associated. In practice, the carriage needs a tractor to be moved.

The tractor 210 comprises a motor (not illustrated), for generating the force necessary for the drive wheels to move the tractor, and a transmission (in the case where the motor is endothermic) for carrying the energy of the motor to the drive wheels.

The tractor 210 further comprises a steering system (not illustrated), for controlling the steering wheels or the steering and drive wheels, and a cockpit adapted to accommodate a tractor operator and controls for operating said tractor systems.

The tractor 210 comprises a fifth wheel 230 (internationally known) associated with the frame of the tractor and which is adapted to allow the removable connection of a carriage to be towed and which interiorly supports a portion of said carriage.

Specifically, the fifth wheel 230 comprises a plate, provided with a substantially flat upper surface 235 (which is generally lubricated to reduce friction with the portion of the carriage placed on top of it), in which plate a recess 240 adapted to allow the insertion of a pin of the carriage, is made.

The fifth wheel then comprises a locking mechanism configured to selectively retain and release a pin (of the carriage) inserted inside the recess.

The cockpit is positioned in a front portion of the tractor, while the fifth wheel 230 is positioned in a rear portion of the tractor.

The system 200 further comprises a variable footprint handling apparatus 201 (hereinafter abbreviated as apparatus 201 ) for handling containers 205. In particular, the handling performed by the apparatus involves lifting, lowering and keeping the container suspended from the ground. By connecting the apparatus to the tractor 210, as will become clearer in the following, it then becomes possible to handle the container by moving it horizontally in space while the apparatus keeps the container suspended in the air.

The apparatus 201 is a variable footprint apparatus as it is able to vary its footprint between a working (or operating) configuration, in which it is possible to lift/lower and keep lifted a container (or a pair of containers) and a storage or transport configuration, in which the maximum overall footprint of the apparatus 201 is reduced compared to the working configuration.

It is specified that variable footprint means the possibility of varying at least one of its dimensions in the space between height, width and length. Width and length are perpendicular to each other and lie on a horizontal plane, whereas the height is measured vertically. Further, in this discussion, width will be used with reference to a measurement direction perpendicular to a straightforward direction of the tractor, in a condition where the apparatus 201 is connected to and aligned with the tractor (as is visible in the figures), and the length with reference to a measurement direction parallel to the straightforward direction of the tractor and perpendicular to the length.

The maximum overall footprint may be considered as the volume of the smallest parallelepiped that entirely contains the apparatus 201 .

The apparatus 201 comprises a variable footprint frame, also definable as "with variable geometry", adapted to be removably connected to the tractor 210, namely to the fifth wheel 230 of the tractor, to be moved by it.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame is capable of varying its footprint in all three indicated directions (height, width and length). However, it is not excluded that in a non- illustrated, and less preferred embodiment, the frame is capable of varying its footprint only in the direction of its width or in the direction of width and length, but not in height. The variation in frame footprint allows the apparatus 201 to be operated between the operating configuration, in which it is capable of handling a container, i.e. lifting, lowering and keeping it suspended, and the transport or storage configuration, in which the apparatus 201 is adapted to be transported on the carriage of an articulated truck, i.e. a carriage connected to a tractor. In the transport configuration, the apparatus 201 is not configured to handle a container.

In the operating configuration the footprint of the frame (and of the apparatus 201 ) is maximum, while it is minimum in the transport or storage configuration.

Said variable footprint frame comprises a first column 255, which is vertical, i.e., it develops mainly longitudinally along a vertical axis, and is adapted to be removably connected to the tractor. In particular, the apparatus 201 is connected to the tractor only through the first column.

The first column 255 is adapted to be associated, i.e., is associated, idly with the fifth wheel 230 of the tractor so that the first column can rotate with respect to the tractor with respect to a vertical axis of rotation R1 . Alternatively, the column may comprise a rigidly fixable lower portion, i.e., rigidly fixable without residual degrees of freedom, to the fifth wheel 230 and the remainder of the first column is rotatably associated with respect to said lower end with respect to the vertical axis of rotation R1 .

For the connection to the fifth wheel, the first column comprises a coupling arrangement located at a lower end 256 of the first column.

Such a coupling arrangement may, for example, be the one known to a person skilled in the art for fixing a carriage to the fifth wheel of the tractor and may comprise a pin (not illustrated) adapted to be inserted into the recess 240 of the fifth wheel 230. Obviously, it cannot be excluded that, as an alternative to the fifth wheel, the tractor could comprise a system for the ad hoc connection of the first column. In such a case, the tractor could, for example, comprise a vertical pin on which a lower portion of the first column is fitted so as to realize a rotoidal pair with a vertical axis of rotation R1 .

In the illustrated embodiment, the first column is of a telescopic type and capable of varying its longitudinal extension along a vertical direction.

Thus, the first column comprises a lower section 260 that comprises the lower portion of the first column and an upper section 265 that is movable with respect to the lower section along a vertical direction, such as by means of a linear actuator 270.

The variable footprint frame then comprises a second column 275 (vertical, i.e., developing longitudinally along a vertical axis) to which a first idle ground support wheel 280 is associated idly. In practice, the second column rests on the ground (only) by means of the first idle wheel which is connected to a lower end of the second column.

The first idle wheel 280 is rotatably associated with the second column 275 at least with respect to a horizontal axis of rotation. It is not excluded that the first idle wheel 280 may be rotatably associated idly with the second column 275 also with respect to a vertical axis of rotation, for example coaxial to a longitudinal axis of the column.

The first idle wheel 280 may be, at least partially, vertically aligned with the second column. Preferably, the second column entirely overlaps in plan the first idle wheel.

In the illustrated embodiment, in order to further reduce the footprints, the second column comprises a cavity 285 within which the first idle wheel 280 is at least partially contained. For example, the second column could also comprise a drive configured to selectively let the first idle wheel protrude from the cavity (so that at least one-third of the wheel protrudes) and to let it retract into the cavity (so that less than one-quarter of the wheel protrudes from the cavity), so as to allow a further reduction in footprints and at the same time allow obstacles to be overcome when the wheel is caused to protrude.

It is not excluded that the second column may comprise more than one ground support wheel idly hinged to the second column.

In the embodiment illustrated, the second column is of a telescopic type and capable of varying its longitudinal extension along a vertical direction. In particular, the second column may comprise a lower section 290 to which the first idle wheel 280 is directly associated in the manner described above, and an upper section 295 movable with respect to the lower section along a vertical axis. For example, the actuation of the second section may be through the linear actuator 296 shown in the figures.

The second column 275 is distinct and spaced by a non-zero amount from the first column.

The variable footprint frame also comprises a third column 300 (vertical, i.e., developing longitudinally along a vertical axis) to which a second idle ground support wheel 305 is associated idly. In practice, the third column rests on the ground (only) by means of the second idle wheel which is connected to a lower end of the third column.

The second idle wheel 305 is rotatably associated with the third column 300 at least with respect to a horizontal axis of rotation. It is not excluded that the second idle wheel 305 may be rotatably associated idly with the third column 300 also with respect to a vertical axis of rotation, for example coaxial to a longitudinal axis of the column.

The second idle wheel 305 may be, at least partially, vertically aligned with the third column. Preferably, the third column entirely overlaps in plan the second idle wheel.

In the illustrated embodiment, in order to further reduce the footprints, the third column comprises a cavity 310 within which the second idle wheel 305 is at least partially contained.

For example, the third column could also comprise a drive configured to let the second idle wheel protrude from the cavity (so that at least one-third of the wheel protrudes) and to let it retract into the cavity (so that less than one-quarter of the wheel protrudes from the cavity), so as to allow a further reduction in footprints and at the same time allow obstacles to be overcome when the wheel is caused to protrude.

It is not excluded that the third column may comprise more than one ground support wheel hinged idly to the third column.

In the embodiment illustrated, the third column is of a telescopic type and capable of varying its longitudinal extension along a vertical direction. In particular, the third column may comprise a lower section 300a to which the second idle wheel 305 is directly associated in the manner described above, and an upper section 300b movable with respect to the lower section along a vertical axis. For example, the actuation of the second section may be through the linear actuator 315 shown in the figures.

The third column 300 is distinct and spaced by a non-zero amount from both the first column 255 and the second column 275.

Preferably, the variable footprint frame does not comprise any other support columns other than the first column, the second column and the third column. In other words, the weight of the apparatus 201 , and of any container associated therewith, is discharged towards the ground passing only through the first column, the second column and the third column.

Additionally, the apparatus 201 , when in use, only touches the ground through the first idle wheel, the second idle wheel, and the tractor when the apparatus 201 is connected to the tractor (alternatively, the apparatus 201 may be momentarily supported by a stand and/or a variable extension support foot).

The variable footprint frame comprises a connection arrangement connecting the second column 275 and the third column 300 to the first column 255 and is configured, for example thanks to actuators and linkages and/or joints, to move at least one of the three columns with respect to another of the three columns between a first position (in which the apparatus 201 has a predetermined footprint in plan), e.g., wherein the footprint in plan of the apparatus 201 , i.e., of the variable footprint frame, is maximum, and a second position, wherein the footprint in plan of the apparatus 201 , i.e., of the variable footprint frame, in said second position is smaller than the footprint in plan of the apparatus 201 in said first position.

It should be noted that the footprint in plan is the width and length of the frame from a plan viewpoint. Alternatively, this footprint in plan can be understood as the area of a triangle lying on a horizontal plane and the vertices thereof are positioned in the respective columns.

The first position of the connection arrangement is the one that must be assumed to achieve the operating configuration of the apparatus 201 in which it allows to transport a container, while the second position must be assumed to achieve the transport configuration of the apparatus 201 .

In the first position, the container to be lifted, or lowered, or which is kept lifted by the apparatus 201 , is interposed (directly) between the first column, the second column and the third column.

The direction in which to measure the width of the apparatus 201 may also be defined as the direction of the horizontal distance between the second column 275 and the third column 300 when the connection arrangement is in the first position.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connection arrangement is configured to move the third column 300 (with respect to the second column 275 and the first column 255) between a first position, wherein the distance (horizontal and minimum) of the third column 300 from the first column 255 is maximum, and a second position, wherein the distance (horizontal and minimum) between the third column and the first column is minimum, and the third column is at a shorter distance from the first column than the distance of the second column from the first column.

For example, in such second position, the third column is interposed between the first column and the second column.

When passing from one position to another, only the third column is moved with respect to the two, which always remain at a predetermined distance from each other.

In practice, the connection arrangement is configured to bring the third column and the first column closer to and further away from each other, for example by placing at least one of them in rotation with respect to a vertical axis of rotation.

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

Further, in the first position, the second column and the third column are aligned along a direction perpendicular to a vertical centreline plane of the apparatus 201 passing the first column (said centreline plane being detectable when the connection arrangement is in the first position). This centreline plane also divides the container into two when it is handled by the apparatus 201 .

In a preferred embodiment of the connection arrangement illustrated in the figures, the connection arrangement comprises a first crosspiece 320, for example with a straight course, which is provided with a first end 320a rigidly fixed (without residual degrees of freedom) to the first column 255, i.e., to a top portion (of the upper section) of the first column 255, and an opposite second end 320b to which the second column 275, i.e., to a top portion (of the upper section) of the second column 275, is hinged with respect to a vertical axis of rotation R2.

For example, the first crosspiece is arranged horizontally.

The first crosspiece 320 is preferably telescopic so as to be able to vary a horizontal distance between its first end 320a and its second end 320b. This makes it possible to vary the horizontal distance between the first column 255 and the second column 275 and thus improve the compactness of the variable footprint frame.

Thus, the first crosspiece may comprise a first section comprising the first end 320a and a second section comprising the second end 320b that is movable with respect to the first section along a straight axis by means of a linear actuator 325.

The first crosspiece comprises only said ends and is directly connected only to the first column and to the second column.

In said illustrated embodiment, the connection arrangement also comprises a second crosspiece 330 provided with a first end 330a rigidly fixed (without residual degrees of freedom) to the second column 275, that is, to the top portion (of the upper section) of the second column 275, and an opposite second end 330b rigidly fixed (without residual degrees of freedom) to the third column 300, that is, to a top portion (of the upper section) of the third column 300.

The second crosspiece comprises only said ends and is directly connected only to the third column and the second column.

For example, the second crosspiece is arranged horizontally.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 -7, the second crosspiece is preferably inextensible.

In the embodiment of the apparatus illustrated in Figures 8 and 9, however, the second crosspiece is telescopic so that a horizontal distance can be varied between its first end and its second end. In such a case, as illustrated in Figure 8, the second crosspiece also comprises a linear actuator 331 configured to vary said horizontal distance between the aforesaid first and second end.

The first and the second crosspiece are placed at such a vertical height that they are entirely above the handled container, without interfering with it.

The connection arrangement further comprises an actuator 335 configured to move the third column in rotation with respect to said axis of rotation R2 and with respect to the first crosspiece, that is to move the second crosspiece 330, to which the third column is rigidly fixed, with respect to the axis of rotation R2 and with respect to the first crosspiece.

The rotation of the third column with respect to the axis of rotation R2 by means of the actuator 335 allows the connection arrangement to be operated between the first position and the second position of the connection arrangement.

Said rotation of the third column with respect to the axis of rotation R2, if combined with a rotation of the first column about its axis of rotation R1 , further makes it possible to arrange the tractor 210 laterally with respect to the apparatus 201 and therefore alongside the container 205, as illustrated in Figure 9.

The system can therefore be used to lift and handle loads that are longer than an ISO container, for example even longer than the system itself, by positioning the second crosspiece perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the load and the tractor placed in plan alongside the load, making it move forward or backward along a trajectory parallel to the longitudinal axis of the load.

For example, the actuator 335 is a linear actuator provided with a first end 335a hinged to one between the first column 255 and the first crosspiece 320 and an opposite second end 335b hinged to one between the third column 300 and the second crosspiece 330. The actuator comprises a first portion provided with the first end and a second portion provided with the second end and movable with respect to the first portion along a straight axis. Such a straight axis preferably lies on a horizontal axis.

Specifically, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 , the first end 335a is hinged to the first crosspiece and the second end 335b is hinged to the second crosspiece.

The actuator is preferably of the oleopneumatic type.

For example, the first and second crosspiece may be straight.

In the second position, the first and second crosspiece have longitudinal axes incident to each other, and in the second position, the first and second crosspiece have longitudinal axes substantially parallel to each other.

In an alternative, less preferred embodiment of the connection arrangement, the third column could be connected directly with a telescopic crosspiece to the first column and the second column could be connected with a rigid crosspiece, not variable in length, to the first column.

The variable footprint frame is rigid, i.e. not deformable under normal working loads. In other words, the columns and the crosspieces of the variable footprint frame are rigid. Connected to the variable footprint frame is a lifting arrangement for lifting the container (with respect to the ground, i.e., with respect to a vertical height of the wheels), i.e., configured to allow the container to be lifted, kept lifted and lowered.

Said lifting arrangement is provided with a first portion (directly) connected to the second column and a second portion (directly) connected to the third column.

Each of said portions is provided with a coupling element, or lower container support, operable at least along a vertical direction for lifting, keeping lifted and lowering, the container.

In the illustrated embodiment, both the first portion and the second portion of the lifting arrangement each comprise a pair of arms, wherein a first arm 340 and a second arm 345 are hinged to the respective column, preferably idly, with respect to a corresponding vertical hinge axis (different for the two arms) and develop along respective longitudinal directions transverse to the corresponding hinge axis, for example horizontally in a direction away from the respective column.

Each portion of the lifting arrangement comprises a first gripping body 350, i.e., a first coupling body, of the container and a first actuation arrangement of said first gripping body configured to move it vertically.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first actuation arrangement comprises a first rope 355 at least partially wrapped to a first (idle) wheel 360 hinged to the first arm 340 and operated by means of a first actuator 365, for example a linear actuator, to which first rope the first gripping body is associated.

The first gripping body may for example be a hook.

Each portion of the lifting arrangement also comprises a second gripping body 370, i.e., a second coupling body, of the container and a second actuation arrangement of said second gripping body configured to move it vertically.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second actuation arrangement comprises a second rope 375 at least partially wrapped to a second (idle) wheel 380 hinged to the second arm 345 and operated by means of a second actuator 385, for example a linear actuator, to which second rope the second gripping body is associated.

It is not excluded that in an alternative embodiment, the actuation arrangements may comprise linear actuators provided with one end associated (e.g. rigidly or hinged) with the respective arm and an opposite end to which the respective gripping body is connected (e.g. rigidly or hinged). In such an embodiment, the gripping body could be a fork of the type used in forklifts, or a hook.

In a non-illustrated embodiment, the lifting arrangement may comprise at least two pairs of forks, wherein one pair is rigidly connected to the upper section of the second column and the other pair is rigidly connected to the upper section of the third column. In this way by means of the telescopic columns it is possible to lift a container while pushing it from below, after having inserted the forks underneath the container.

The illustrated lifting arrangement comprises a first spacer bar 390 and a second spacer bar 395 removably associable with respective arms facing each other of the lifting arrangement, so as to prevent rotation of said arms with respect to the hinge axes.

In particular, the first spacer bar has a first end connected to the first arm of the first portion of the lifting arrangement and an opposite second end connected to the second arm of the second portion of the lifting arrangement and is directly interposed between them.

The spacer bars are rigid, i.e., not deformable under normal working loads to which they are subjected. In particular, these bars only work in traction and compression under forces applied to them by the arms between which they are interposed.

The lifting arrangement may comprise, in addition to the first and second spacer bar, a third spacer bar 400 and a fourth spacer bar 405 that extend from one between the second column and the third column toward the arms of the portion of lifting arrangement associated with the opposite column.

The apparatus 201 may comprise a pump (not illustrated) driven by a motor (not illustrated) and operatively connected to the connection arrangement for moving the first column between the first and the second position, i.e., for powering the actuator of the connection arrangement.

As can be guessed, such a pump can also be used to power other actuators that may be present when certain elements are telescopic, such as the columns, for example.

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

Said pump and said motor are connected to one of the three columns or to the connection arrangement.

The operating configuration of the apparatus 201 , i.e. of the variable footprint frame, occurs when the connection arrangement is in the first position and all the telescopic columns are in one of their position of maximum longitudinal extension.

In the illustrated embodiment, the operating configuration occurs when the connection arrangement is in the first position, all telescopic columns are in their position of maximum longitudinal extension, the idle wheels protrude at least one-third from the cavity and the spacer bars are interposed between the arms of the lifting arrangement.

The operating configuration coincides with when the connection arrangement is in the first position only in the less preferred embodiment in which the columns are not telescopic, the wheels are not within cavities made in the columns and are movable with respect to said cavities, and the lifting arrangement comprises forks that are vertically movable along the columns instead of hinged arms.

The transport configuration of the apparatus 201 , i.e. the variable footprint frame, occurs when the connection arrangement is in its second position and all the telescopic columns are in one of their position of minimum longitudinal extension.

In the illustrated embodiment, the transport configuration occurs when the connection arrangement is in the second position, all telescopic columns are in their position of minimum longitudinal extension, the idle wheels protrude less than a quarter from the cavity, the first crosspiece is in its position of minimum longitudinal extension, and the spacer bars are not interposed between the arms of the lifting arrangement.

The transport configuration coincides with when the connection arrangement is in the second position only in the less preferred embodiment in which the columns are not telescopic, the first crosspiece is not telescopic, the wheels are not within cavities made in the columns and are movable with respect to said cavities, and the lifting arrangement comprises forks that are vertically movable along the columns.

The apparatus 201 illustrated can be connected to any tractor, i.e. a tractor of an articulated truck, provided it has a fifth wheel. Alternatively, it is possible to assume the use of a special tractor, provided with the fifth wheel (or alternatively with an arrangement for fixing the apparatus comprising a pin or a circular seat that allow to removably associate the apparatus 201 to the special tractor, forming a rotoidal pair with a vertical axis of rotation with the first column of the apparatus 201. For example, such a tractor could be an adapted forklift or other self-propelled industrial vehicle.

The system, in order to facilitate loading the apparatus onto the carriage to allow it to be transported when the apparatus is in a transport configuration, may comprise a stand 311 having a pair of horizontal, telescopic upper crosspieces that are positioned side-by-side and parallel to each other and are configured to extend and retract while the connection arrangement is operated between the first and the second position by interiorly supporting the first and the second crosspiece and following them in the movement leading to the passage between the second and the first position.

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

The apparatus 201 is transported in a transport configuration positioned above a carriage pulled by a tractor that takes it where it is supposed to be used to handle containers (see Figures 4 and 5).

Once they have reached destination, the apparatus 201 is brought from the transport configuration into the operating configuration supporting it during this transition, for example by placing it on the special stands, such as for example the stand 311 or by means of a forklift or by lifting it by means of a crane.

First of all, in the passage from the transport configuration to the operating configuration, the drive of the connection arrangement that places the second crosspiece 330 in rotation with respect to the vertical axis of rotation R2 is operated in order to bring it from the second position into the first position. After that, the first column 255 can already be connected to the fifth wheel 230 of the tractor.

If the columns are telescopic, like the one illustrated, the columns and possibly also the first crosspiece are extended.

Also in the illustrated case, in which the lifting arrangement comprises the arms 340, 345, from the position visible in plan in Figure 5, they are to be rotated with respect to the respective hinge axes so that in each pair of arms they both protrude in diametrically opposite directions away from the respective column to which they are hinged. These directions are substantially parallel to the forward direction of the system when the apparatus 201 is connected to the tractor, that is parallel to the median plane of the apparatus 201 when it is in the first position. Further, after positioning the arms, they are locked in place by means of the spacer bars 390,395,400,405 which are fixed to them. Once the apparatus 201 is in operating configuration and connected to the tractor, the apparatus 201 is moved by the tractor at the container to be lifted, positioning it so that the container is between the first column, the second column and the third column.

In the illustrated embodiment, the container is also interposed in plan between the arms of the first portion of the lifting arrangement and the arms of the second portion of the lifting arrangement.

At this point, the container is grasped by the gripping bodies of the lifting arrangement and lifted so that it does not touch the ground or the carriage on which the container is placed.

While the apparatus 201 keeps the container lifted, the tractor moves the apparatus 201 to the place where the container is to be unloaded, i.e. lowered. For example, thanks to the first telescopic column, the first crosspiece can be placed at a higher height than a portion of the top of the tractor, so that the tractor can be oriented such that the second and the third column, and hence the lifting arrangement, are in front of the cockpit (as illustrated in Figure 3).

Once the apparatus 201 has completed its work, it can be brought back from the transport configuration to store it on the working place or take it to another place (working or storage).

In the case of the illustrated apparatus 201 , the first step is to remove the spacer bars, after which, or if the apparatus 201 is not the illustrated apparatus, the drive of the connection arrangement is operated to move it from the first position to the second position.

If the columns and the first crosspiece are telescopic like in the case illustrated, they are also brought to their position of minimum longitudinal extension.

The arms shall be rotated with respect to the respective hinge axes as illustrated in Figure 6, i.e. so that they are aligned two by two (thus within the single pair of arms) with respect to a direction transverse to a direction running from the second column to the first column when the connection arrangement is in the second position.

Since in this configuration the arms are free to move, it is advisable to fasten them to the rest of the variable footprint frame by means of ropes.

With particular reference to figures 10 - 16, a system for handling containers 205 (ISO containers), in particular of the type capable of moving autonomously along roads and highways open to the public, has been globally indicated with 200. In the illustrated embodiments, there is a system 200 capable of handling a single container, however, with appropriate dimensional modifications of the system well within the reach of the person skilled in the art, the inventive concept underlying the system can be adapted to transport two containers stacked vertically one on top of the other.

The system 500 comprises a tractor 510, i.e., a self-propelled vehicle suitable for land transportation, which comprises a chassis 515 to which at least one pair of drive and steering wheels 520 or one pair of drive wheels and one pair of steering wheels (and possibly, generally, also at least one pair of idle wheels 525) are associated.

The tractor illustrated is that of an articulated vehicle, i.e. a self-propelled vehicle adapted to transport carriages resting on the ground by means of idle wheels, however it is not excluded that the tractor may be another self-propelled vehicle, such as a forklift.

It is specified that a carriage is defined as a frame having a flat upper surface for supporting goods, for example a container, and to which a plurality of ground support wheels, all of which are idle wheels, is associated. In practice, the carriage needs a tractor to be moved.

The tractor 510 comprises a motor (not illustrated), for generating the force necessary for the drive wheels to move the tractor, and a transmission (in the case where the motor is endothermic) for carrying the energy of the motor to the drive wheels.

The tractor 510 further comprises a steering system (not illustrated), for controlling the steering wheels or the steering and drive wheels, and a cockpit adapted to accommodate a tractor operator and controls for operating said tractor systems.

The tractor 510 comprises a fifth wheel 530 (internationally known) associated with the frame of the tractor and which is adapted to allow the removable connection of a carriage to be towed and which inferiorly supports a portion of said carriage.

Specifically, the fifth wheel 530 comprises a plate, provided with a substantially flat upper surface 535 (which is generally lubricated to reduce friction with the portion of the carriage placed on top of it), in which plate a recess 540 adapted to allow the insertion of a pin of the carriage, is made.

The cockpit is positioned in a front portion of the tractor, while the fifth wheel 530 is positioned in a rear portion of the tractor.

The system 200 further comprises a variable footprint handling apparatus 501 , 50T (hereinafter abbreviated as apparatus 501 , 50T) for handling containers 205. In particular, the handling performed by the apparatus involves lifting, lowering and keeping the container suspended from the ground. By connecting the apparatus to the tractor 510, as will become clearer in the following, it then becomes possible to handle the container by moving it horizontally in space while the apparatus keeps the container suspended in the air.

The apparatus 501 , 501 ’ is a variable footprint apparatus as it is able to vary its footprint between a working (or operating) configuration, in which it is possible to lift/lower and keep lifted a container (or a pair of containers) and a storage or transport configuration, in which the maximum overall footprint of the apparatus 501 , 50T is reduced compared to the working configuration.

It is specified that variable footprint means the possibility of varying at least one of its dimensions in the space between height, width and length. Width and length are perpendicular to each other and lie on a horizontal plane, whereas the height is measured vertically. Further, in this discussion, width will be used with reference to a measurement direction perpendicular to a straightforward direction of the tractor, in a condition where the apparatus 501 , 50T is connected to and aligned with the tractor (as is visible in the figures), and the length with reference to a measurement direction parallel to the straightforward direction of the tractor and perpendicular to the length.

The maximum overall footprint may be considered as the volume of the smallest parallelepiped that entirely contains the apparatus 501 , 501 \ The apparatus 501 , 50T comprises a variable footprint frame, also definable as "with variable geometry", adapted to be removably connected to the tractor 510, namely to the fifth wheel 530 of the tractor, to be moved by it.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame is capable of varying its footprint in all three indicated directions (height, width and length). However, it is not excluded that in a non- illustrated, and less preferred embodiment, the frame is capable of varying its footprint only in the direction of its width or in the direction of width and length, but not in height. The variation in frame footprint allows the apparatus 501 , 50T to be operated between the operating configuration, in which it is capable of handling a container, i.e. lifting, lowering and keeping it suspended, and the transport or storage configuration, in which the apparatus 501 , 50T is adapted to be transported on the carriage of an articulated truck, i.e. a carriage connected to a tractor. In the transport configuration, the apparatus 501 , 501 ’ is not configured to handle a container.

In the operating configuration the footprint of the frame (and of the apparatus 501 , 501 ’) is maximum, while it is minimum in the transport or storage configuration.

Said variable footprint frame comprises a first column 555, which is vertical, i.e., it develops mainly longitudinally along a vertical axis, and is adapted to be removably connected to the tractor. In particular, the apparatus 501 , 501 ’ is connected to the tractor only through the first column.

The first column 555 is adapted to be associated, i.e., is associated, idly with the fifth wheel 530 of the tractor so that the first column can rotate with respect to the tractor with respect to a vertical axis of rotation R1 . Alternatively, the column may comprise a rigidly fixable lower portion, i.e., rigidly fixable without residual degrees of freedom, to the fifth wheel 530 and the remainder of the first column is rotatably associated with respect to said lower end with respect to the vertical axis of rotation R1 .

For the connection to the fifth wheel, the first column comprises a coupling arrangement located at a lower end 556 of the first column.

Such a coupling arrangement may, for example, be the one known to a person skilled in the art for fixing a carriage to the fifth wheel of the tractor and may comprise a pin (not illustrated) adapted to be inserted into the recess 540 of the fifth wheel 530. Obviously, it cannot be excluded that, as an alternative to the fifth wheel, the tractor could comprise a system for the ad hoc connection of the first column. In such a case, the tractor could, for example, comprise a vertical pin on which a lower portion of the first column is fitted so as to realize a rotoidal pair with a vertical axis of rotation R1 .

Thus, the first column comprises a lower section 560 that comprises the lower portion of the first column and an upper section 565 that is movable with respect to the lower section along a vertical direction, such as by means of a linear actuator 570.

The variable footprint frame then comprises a second column 575 (vertical, i.e., developing longitudinally along a vertical axis) to which a first idle ground support wheel 580 is associated idly. In practice, the second column rests on the ground (only) by means of the first idle wheel which is connected to a lower end of the second column.

The first idle wheel 580 is rotatably associated with the second column 575 at least with respect to a horizontal axis of rotation. It is not excluded that the first idle wheel 580 may be rotatably associated idly with the second column 575 also with respect to a vertical axis of rotation, for example coaxial to a longitudinal axis of the column.

The first idle wheel 580 may be, at least partially, vertically aligned with the second column. Preferably, the second column entirely overlaps in plan the first idle wheel.

In the illustrated embodiment, in order to further reduce the footprints, the second column comprises a cavity 585 within which the first idle wheel 580 is at least partially contained. For example, the second column could also comprise a drive configured to selectively let the first idle wheel protrude from the cavity (so that at least one-third of the wheel protrudes) and to let it retract into the cavity (so that less than one-quarter of the wheel protrudes from the cavity), so as to allow a further reduction in footprints and at the same time allow obstacles to be overcome when the wheel is caused to protrude.

In the embodiment illustrated, the second column is of a telescopic type and capable of varying its longitudinal extension along a vertical direction. In particular, the second column may comprise a lower section 590 to which the first idle wheel 580 is directly associated in the manner described above, and an upper section 595 movable with respect to the lower section 590 along a vertical axis. For example, the actuation of the second section may be through the linear actuator 596 shown in the figures. The second column 575 is distinct and spaced by a non-zero amount from the first column.

The variable footprint frame also comprises a third column 600 (vertical, i.e., developing longitudinally along a vertical axis) to which a second idle ground support wheel 605 is associated idly. In practice, the third column rests on the ground (only) by means of the second idle wheel which is connected to a lower end of the third column.

The second idle wheel is rotatably associated with the third column 600 at least with respect to a horizontal axis of rotation. It is not excluded that the second idle wheel may be rotatably associated idly with the third column 600 also with respect to a vertical axis of rotation, for example coaxial to a longitudinal axis of the column.

The second idle wheel may be, at least partially, vertically aligned with the third column. Preferably, the third column entirely overlaps in plan the second idle wheel.

In the illustrated embodiment, in order to further reduce the footprints, the third column comprises a cavity 610 within which the second idle wheel is at least partially contained. For example, the third column could also comprise a drive configured to let the second idle wheel protrude from the cavity (so that at least one-third of the wheel protrudes) and to let it retract into the cavity (so that less than one-quarter of the wheel protrudes from the cavity), so as to allow a further reduction in footprints and at the same time allow obstacles to be overcome when the wheel is caused to protrude.

In the embodiment illustrated, the third column is of a telescopic type and capable of varying its longitudinal extension along a vertical direction. In particular, the third column may comprise a lower section to which the second idle wheel is directly associated in the manner described above, and an upper section movable with respect to the lower section along a vertical axis. For example, the actuation of the second section may be through the linear actuator y shown in the figures.

The third column 600 is distinct and spaced by a non-zero amount from both the first column 555 and the second column 575.

Preferably, the variable footprint frame does not comprise any other support columns other than the first column, the second column and the third column. In other words, the weight of the apparatus 501 ,501 ', and of any container associated therewith, is discharged towards the ground passing only through the first column, the second column and the third column.

Additionally, the apparatus 501 ,501 ', when in use, only touches the ground through the first idle wheel, the second idle wheel, and the tractor when the apparatus 501 ,501 ' is connected to the tractor (alternatively, the apparatus 501 ,501 ' may be momentarily supported by a stand and/or a variable extension support foot).

The variable footprint frame comprises a connection arrangement connecting the second column 575 and the third column 600 to the first column 555 and is configured, for example thanks to actuators and linkages and/or joints, to move at least one of the three columns with respect to another of the three columns between a first position (in which the apparatus 501 ,501 ' has a predetermined footprint in plan), e.g., wherein the footprint in plan of the apparatus 501 ,501 ', i.e., of the variable footprint frame, is maximum, and a second position, wherein the footprint in plan of the apparatus 501 ,501 ', i.e., of the variable footprint frame, in said second position is smaller than the footprint in plan of the apparatus 501 ,501 ' in said first position.

The first position of the connection arrangement is the one that must be assumed to achieve the operating configuration of the apparatus 501 ,501 ' in which it allows to transport a container, while the second position must be assumed to achieve the transport configuration of the apparatus 501 ,501 '.

In the first position, the container to be lifted, or lowered, or which is kept lifted by the apparatus 501 ,501 ', is interposed (directly) between the first column, the second column and the third column.

The direction in which to measure the width of the apparatus 501 , 50T may also be defined as the direction of the horizontal distance between the second column 575 and the third column 600 when the connection arrangement is in the first position.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connection arrangement is configured to move at least one between the second column and the third column between a first position, wherein the (minimum and horizontal) distance of the third column from the second column is maximum, and a second position wherein said distance is minimum.

When the connection arrangement is in the first position, the second column and the third column are placed substantially at the same distance (horizontally) from a vertical centreline plane of the apparatus 501 , 501 ’ that intersects the first column and is interposed between the second column and the third column.

In the passage between the first position and the second position, the distance of the second column from the first column and the distance of the third column from the first column remain unchanged.

In practice, the connection arrangement is configured to bring the third column and the second column closer to and further away from each other, for example by placing at least one of them in rotation with respect to a vertical axis of rotation.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connection arrangement comprises a first crosspiece 620 provided with a first end 620a connected, for example without residual degrees of freedom, to the first column 555, that is to a top portion (of the upper section) of the first column, and an opposite second end 620b connected, for example without residual degrees of freedom, to the third column 600, that is to a top portion (of the upper section) of the third column.

For example, the first crosspiece is arranged horizontally.

The first crosspiece 620 is preferably telescopic so as to be able to vary a horizontal distance between its first end 620a and its second end 620b. This makes it possible to vary the horizontal distance between the first column 555 and the second column 575 and thus improve the compactness of the variable footprint frame. In particular, as will become clear in the following, the illustrated embodiment combined with the first telescopic crosspiece allows the horizontal distance of the third column and of the second column to be varied with respect to the first column.

Thus, the first crosspiece may comprise a first section comprising the first end 620a and a second section comprising the second end 620b that is movable with respect to the first section along a straight axis by means of a linear actuator 625.

The first crosspiece comprises only said ends and is directly connected only to the first column and to the third column.

The first crosspiece, in order to improve the footprints, is shaped so that from a plan viewpoint the first section is inclined with respect to the second section. For example, the longitudinal axes of these sections intersect and form an obtuse angle (comprised between 90° and 180°) facing the first crosspiece. Basically, the second section develops from the first section in the direction away from the second column.

The connection arrangement also comprises a second crosspiece 630 provided with a first end 630a rigidly fixed (without residual degrees of freedom) to the second column 575, that is to the top portion (of the upper section) of the second column 575, and an opposite second end 630b hinged to one between the first crosspiece, i.e., the second section of the first crosspiece, and the first column, with respect to a vertical axis of rotation T2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end is hinged to the second section of the first crosspiece, so that it is possible to vary the horizontal distance of the third column and of the second column with respect to the first column through the telescopic element of the first crosspiece.

The second crosspiece comprises only said ends and for example is directly connected only to the second column and to the first crosspiece.

For example, the second crosspiece is arranged horizontally.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second crosspiece is preferably inextensible. However, it is not excluded that in an alternative embodiment it may be telescopic so as to be able to vary a horizontal distance between its first end and its second end.

The connection arrangement further comprises an actuator 635 configured to move the second column in rotation with respect to said axis of rotation T2 and with respect to the first crosspiece, that is to move the second crosspiece 630, to which the second column is rigidly fixed, with respect to the axis of rotation T2 and with respect to the first crosspiece.

The rotation of the third column with respect to the axis of rotation T2 by means of the actuator 635 allows the connection arrangement to be operated between the first position and the second position of the connection arrangement.

For example, the actuator 635 is a linear actuator provided with a first end 635a hinged to one between the first column 555 and the first crosspiece 620 and an opposite second end 635b hinged to one between the second column 575 and the second crosspiece 630. The actuator comprises a first portion provided with the first end and a second portion provided with the second end and movable with respect to the first portion along a straight axis. Such a straight axis preferably lies on a horizontal axis.

Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, the first end 635a is hinged to the first crosspiece and the second end is hinged to the second crosspiece.

The actuator is preferably of the oleopneumatic type.

It is not excluded that, in an alternative less preferred non-illustrated embodiment, the connection arrangement may comprise a horizontally arranged telescopic crosspiece connecting the second column to the first column, and which by varying its longitudinal extension allows the first and he second position of the connection arrangement to be achieved by bringing the second column and the third column closer to and further away from each other. This telescopic crosspiece would be perpendicular to a vertical centreline plane passing through the first column and interposed between the second column and the third column.

Connected to the variable footprint frame is a lifting arrangement for lifting the container (with respect to the ground, i.e., with respect to a vertical height of the wheels), i.e., configured to allow the container to be lifted, kept lifted and lowered.

The lifting arrangement comprises a first arm 640 connected to the second column 575 and developing transversely thereto along a longitudinal (horizontal) direction, and a second arm 645 connected to the third column and developing transversely thereto along a longitudinal (horizontal) direction. In particular, the arms are each connected to the respective column in a respective central portion thereof, such that longitudinal ends of the arms are distal from the respective column.

At least one of said arms is idly hinged to the respective column to which it is connected with respect to a vertical axis of rotation T3.

For example, the second arm is hinged to the third column according to the vertical hinge axis T3 and the first arm is rigidly fixed without residual degrees of freedom to the The first arm 640 and the second arm 645 are for example straight, preferably they are conformed as straight bars arranged with a horizontal longitudinal axis.

In the illustrated embodiment, the connection arrangement may comprise an actuator 646 configured to place the second arm in rotation with respect to the corresponding vertical hinge axis T3.

As an alternative to the actuators, there may be a mechanism for locking and unlocking the rotation of the arms with respect to the columns.

The connection arrangement then comprises:

- a first container gripping body 650, such as a first hook, integral with a first rope 655 at least partially wrapped around a first wheel 660 (idly) hinged near a first end 640a of the first arm 640 distal from the second column 575 and operated by means of a first actuator 665,

- a second container gripping body 670, such as a second hook, integral with a second rope 675 at least partially wrapped around a second wheel 680 (idly) hinged near a second end 640b of the first arm 640 distal from the second column 575 and opposite to the first end 640a, wherein the second rope is operated by means of a second actuator 685,

- a third container gripping body (not illustrated), such as a third hook, integral with a third rope 690 at least partially wrapped around a third wheel 695 (idly) hinged near a first end 645a of the second arm 645 distal from the third column 600 and operated by means of a third actuator (not illustrated),

- a fourth container gripping body (not illustrated), for example a fourth hook, integral with a fourth rope 700 at least partially wrapped around a fourth wheel 705 (idly) hinged near a second end 645b, opposite to the first, of the second arm distal from the third column 600 and opposite to the first, and operated by means of a fourth actuator (not illustrated). The non-illustrated parts connected to the second arm are identical to the corresponding parts connected to the first arm.

The apparatus 501 , 50T may comprise a pump (not illustrated) driven by a motor (not illustrated) and operatively connected to the connection arrangement for moving the first column between the first and the second position, i.e., for powering the actuator of the connection arrangement.

The operating configuration of the apparatus 501 , 501 ’, i.e. of the variable footprint frame, occurs when the connection arrangement is in its first position and all the telescopic columns are in their position of maximum longitudinal extension.

The transport configuration of the apparatus 501 , 50T, i.e. the variable footprint frame, occurs when the connection arrangement is in its second position and all the telescopic columns are in their position of minimum longitudinal extension.

The apparatus 501 ,501 ' illustrated can be connected to any tractor, i.e. a tractor of an articulated truck, provided it has a fifth wheel. Alternatively, it is possible to assume the use of a special tractor, provided with the fifth wheel (or alternatively with an arrangement for fixing the apparatus comprising a pin or a circular seat that allow to remotely associate the apparatus 501 ,501 ' to the special tractor, forming a rotoidal pair with a vertical axis of rotation with the first column of the apparatus 501 ,501 '. For example, such a tractor could be an adapted forklift or other self-propelled industrial vehicle.

The system, in order to facilitate loading the apparatus onto the carriage to allow it to be transported when the apparatus is in a transport configuration, may comprise a stand 710 having a pair of horizontal, telescopic upper crosspieces that are positioned side-by-side and parallel to each other and are configured to extend and retract while the connection arrangement is operated between the first and the second position by interiorly supporting the first and the second crosspiece and following them in the movement leading to the passage between the second and the first position.

Figures 17 and 18 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the system 500’ according to the invention, wherein the apparatus 501 ’ differs from the apparatus 501 solely in that the second crosspiece is hinged to the first crosspiece by means of an appendage protruding from the first crosspiece along a horizontal direction and transverse to a longitudinal axis of the first crosspiece, i.e., of the first section of the first crosspiece. In particular, said appendage has an extension in the direction in which it protrudes from the first crosspiece that is greater than a maximum width of the first crosspiece measured along a direction transverse to the longitudinal axis thereof.

Figure 19 illustrates another embodiment of the system, indicated as 500”, which differs from the system 500’ in that it comprises an apparatus 501 ” in which the second end 620b of the first crosspiece may be hinged to the third column, that is to a top portion (of the upper section) of the third column, with respect to a vertical axis of rotation T4, and wherein the first end 630a of the second crosspiece may be hinged to the second column, that is to a top portion (of the upper section) of the second column, with respect to a vertical axis of rotation T5.

In such a case, the apparatus may comprise a first locking mechanism (not illustrated) operable at least between a first position, in which it allows a rotation of the third column with respect to the first crosspiece, and a second position, in which it locks the relative rotation between the first crosspiece and the third column.

Said mechanism may comprise an actuator (not illustrated) configured to move the third column in rotation with respect to said axis of rotation T4, that is to move the third column in rotation with respect to the first crosspiece, and to selectively lock the relative angular position between said third column and first crosspiece.

The apparatus may also comprise a second locking mechanism (not illustrated) operable at least between a first position, in which it allows a rotation of the third column with respect to the first crosspiece, and a second position, in which it locks the relative rotation between the second crosspiece and the second column.

Said mechanism could comprise an actuator (not illustrated) configured to move the second column in rotation with respect to said axis of rotation T5, that is to move the second column in rotation with respect to the second crosspiece, and to selectively lock the relative angular position between said second column and said second crosspiece.

It is not excluded that in an alternative embodiment not illustrated, the columns are connected to the crosspieces like in the embodiments 500 and 500', but the ground support wheels could also be hinged to the respective columns with respect to vertical axes of rotation.

The operation of the system 500, 500’, 500” according to the invention is the following. The apparatus is transported in a transport configuration positioned above a carriage pulled by a tractor that takes it where it is supposed to be used to handle containers (see Figures 4 and 5).

Once they have reached destination, the apparatus is brought from the transport configuration into the operating configuration supporting it during this transition, for example by placing it on the special stand 710 or by means of a forklift or by lifting it by means of a crane.

First of all, in the passage from the transport configuration to the operating configuration, the drive of the connection arrangement that places the second crosspiece 630 in rotation with respect to the vertical axis of rotation T2 is operated in order to bring it from the second position into the first position. After that, the first column 555 can already be connected to the fifth wheel 530 of the tractor.

Again in the illustrated case, wherein the lifting arrangement comprises the arms 640,645, from the position visible in plan in Figure 6, they are to be rotated with respect to their respective vertical hinge axes, for example by means of the actuators provided, so that, having reached the first position of the connection arrangement, the arms are arranged with longitudinal axes parallel to each other and parallel to a vertical centreline plane of the apparatus equidistant from the third and second column and intersecting the first column.

Once the apparatus is in operating configuration and connected to the tractor, the apparatus is moved by the tractor at the container to be lifted, positioning it so that the container is between the first column, the second column and the third column.

In the illustrated embodiment, the container is also interposed in plan between the first arm and the second arm, which flank the container laterally.

While the apparatus keeps the container lifted, the tractor moves the apparatus to the place where the container is to be unloaded, i.e. lowered. For example, thanks to the first telescopic column, the first crosspiece can be placed at a higher height than a portion of the top of the tractor, so that the tractor can be oriented such that the second and the third column, and hence the lifting arrangement, are in front of the cockpit (as illustrated in Figure 3).

Once the apparatus has completed its work, it can be brought back from the transport configuration to store it on the working place or take it to another place (working or storage).

In the case of the illustrated system, it is possible to place the first and the second crosspiece on the stand 710, which, by means of its telescopic crosspieces, is able to support the crosspieces at the bottom while they pass from the first position to the second position.

The second arm 645, as the connection arrangement passes from the first to the second position, is rotated so that it does not touch the first arm, which being connected to the second column rotates about the vertical axis of rotation T2 together with it, with the result that its first end 645a would soon touch the second arm if it were not rotated about the axis T3, for example so as to keep the second arm parallel to the first arm while the first arm rotates about the vertical axis of rotation T2.

In all the embodiments of the apparatus 201 , 501 , 50T, 501 ” described above, it comprises at least one pair of columns.

Said columns 255, 275, 300, 555, 575, 600 of the pair of columns develop along a respective direction of development (A).

Said direction of development is vertical, i.e. along the said vertical axis.

In the case of the embodiments illustrated in the present patent, the apparatus 201 , 501 , 50T, 501 ” always comprises at least (and preferably) three columns, i.e. a first column 255, 555, a second column 275, 575 and a third column 300, 600.

The three columns develop longitudinally along their respective direction of development A.

As described above, the apparatus 201 , 501 , 50T, 501 ” also comprises at least one crosspiece 320, 330, 620, 630. According to the invention, said crosspiece 320, 330, 620, 630 is configured to connect the columns of the (at least one) pair of columns of the crane. This (at least one) crosspiece develops along a (respective) direction of development (B), for example horizontal, transverse to the direction of development (A) of the crane columns.

In all the embodiments of the apparatus 201 , 501 , 50T, 501 ” described above, at least one between a column of the (at least one) pair of columns and the crosspiece (configured to connect said columns of the at least one pair of columns) is of the telescopic type. Preferably, all the columns that are telescopic comprise at least one male section 820, 260, 90, 300a, 560, 590 and one female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 565, 595.

Further preferably, also all the crosspieces that are telescopic comprise at least one male section 820, 320a, 330a, 620a and one female section 830, 320b, 330b, 620b.

Thus, a one-stage telescopic column is created; it is not excluded that, by adding a section that is female to the female section, a two-stage telescopic column or crosspiece can be obtained.

In the case of columns, these male and female sections correspond respectively to the lower sections 260, 290, 300a, 560, 590 and the upper sections 265, 295, 300b, 565, 595 described above. In the case of crosspieces, the male section corresponds to the first ends 320a, 330a, 620a and the female section corresponds to the second ends 320b, 330b, 620b.

With particular reference to Figures 20-25, said male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a and female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b are slidably associated in such a way as to be selectively moved closer to/away from each other along the respective direction of development (A, B) of the column or crosspiece.

Said male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a comprises a protrusion 900, i.e., an externally protruding appendage, or an indentation 905.

Said protrusions 900 or indentations 905 extend longitudinally along the respective direction of development (A, B) of the columns and/or crosspieces.

More precisely, said protrusion 900 extends longitudinally along an entire sliding stroke between the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a and the female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b of the columns and/or crosspieces. Possibly, said protrusion 900 or indentation 905 of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a extends along the entire extension of the column or crosspiece along the respective direction of development (A, B).

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

Going into greater detail, the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a comprises, along an entire portion thereof coupled to the female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b, a cross-section, according to a section plane perpendicular to the direction of development of the columns and/or the crosspieces, provided with a base portion and a secondary portion.

Said base portion has a convex polygonal shape, e.g. it has a parallelogram shape.

In case the male portion 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a has a protrusion 900 rather than an indentation 905, said secondary portion protrudes externally from said base portion.

For example, said secondary portion protrudes from the base portion by a non-zero amount.

In case, on the other hand, the male portion 820 comprises an indentation 905, said secondary portion is presented as a cavity facing inwards from the base portion.

Said female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b comprises a portion 901 , 906 conjugated to said protrusion 900 or indentation 905 of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a, in such a way as to form with it a prismatic connection defining a sliding axis, parallel to the respective direction of development (A, B) of the column or crosspiece.

In the event that the male section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a comprises a protrusion 900, the conjugate portion 901 of the female tract 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b also has a protrusion, external to that of the male tract.

In case, on the other hand, the male section 820 comprises an indentation 905, the conjugate portion 906 of the female section 830 also has an indentation fitted to measure in the indentation 905.

Said conjugate portion 901 , 906 extends longitudinally along said sliding axis throughout a sliding stroke between the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a and the female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b.

Possibly, said conjugate portion 901 , 906 extends throughout the extension of said female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b of the column or crosspiece along the respective direction of development (A, B).

The female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b may also comprise a pair of stiffening flanges 908, located at opposite sides of the conjugate portion 901 , 906 and associated therewith transversely to the direction of development (A, B) of the crosspiece.

The female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b comprises, along said portion 901 , 906 conjugate to the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a, a cross-section (according to said section plane perpendicular to the respective direction of development (A, B) of the columns and/or the crosspieces) provided with an inner perimeter that surrounds to measure an outer perimeter of the (aforementioned) cross-section of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a.

In case the male section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a comprises a protrusion 900, said outer perimeter comprises a first section 910 and an opposite second section 915.

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

They are also equal in length and are each one provided with a respective first longitudinal end 910a, 915a and a second longitudinal end 910b, 915b.

The outer perimeter of the male section 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a then comprises a third section 920.

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

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

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

Said fourth section 925 is straight and develops from the second longitudinal end 910b of the first section 910, perpendicular thereto (and parallel to the third section 920) and in the direction moving closer to the second section 915.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The outer perimeter of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a then comprises a seventh section 940

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

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

The outer perimeter of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a then comprises an eighth section 945.

Said eighth section 945 is straight and develops from a longitudinal end of the seventh section 940 opposite to the sixth section 935.

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

The fifth section, sixth section and seventh section form the said protrusion 900 of the male section.

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

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

Said fifth section 931 is straight and develops from a longitudinal end of the fourth section 925 opposite the first section 910, perpendicularly to the fourth section 925 (and parallel to the first section 910 and the second section 915) in a direction moving closer to the third section 920.

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

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

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

In the present case, the sixth section 936 is located internally with respect to the base portion of the male section 820.

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

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

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

Said eighth section 945 is straight and develops from a longitudinal end of the seventh section 941 opposite to the sixth section 936.

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

The fifth section, sixth section and seventh section form said indentation 905 of the male section.

The apparatus 201 , 501 , 50T,501 ” according to the invention further comprises a linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596, configured to move the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a and the female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b of the (at least one) column and/or crosspiece of the apparatus closer to/away from each other along the respective direction of development (A, B). Said linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596, i.e., extends longitudinally along said respective direction of development (A, B).

For this purpose, the linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 is provided with a cylinder, which makes available a first axial end of the actuator, associated with the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a .

It is then provided with a piston, slidably associated inside the cylinder and to which a rod is slidably integral with respect to the cylinder, provided with a free end which protrudes externally from the cylinder and which makes available a second axial end of the actuator associated with the female section 830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b of the telescopic column or crosspiece of the apparatus.

Said linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 of the apparatus is at least partially accommodated in the protrusion 900 or indentation 905 of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a.

More precisely, the protrusion 900 or indentation 905 of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a extends along the aforesaid direction transverse to the direction of development (A, B) of the columns or crosspieces by a sufficient amount such that said linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 can be at least partially accommodated in said protrusion 900 or indentation 905 of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a.

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

Furthermore, the indentation 905 of the male section 820 extends along said direction, in such a way that the aforesaid cross-section of the linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596, according to a section plane perpendicular to the aforesaid respective direction of development (A, B), is at least partially internally accommodated in a portion of the cross- section of the male section 820 comprised between the aforesaid fifth section 931 , sixth section 936, seventh section 941 and an imaginary line connecting the longitudinal end of the fourth section 925 from which the fifth section 931 develops with the longitudinal end of the seventh section 941 from which the eighth section 945 develops.

Preferably, said linear actuator 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 is completely accommodated in the protrusion 900 or indentation 905 of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a. In this case, therefore, the aforesaid actuator cross-section 270, 296, 315, 570, 596 with respect to said section plane is completely accommodated inside the above-described portion of the cross-section of the male section 820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a comprised between the fifth section 930, 931 , the sixth section 935, 936, the seventh section 940, 941 and said imaginary line.

The invention thus conceived is susceptible to several modifications and variations, all falling within the scope of the inventive concept.

Moreover, all details can be replaced by other technically equivalent elements.

In practice, the materials used, as well as the contingent shapes and sizes, can be what- ever according to the requirements without for this reason departing from the scope of protection of the following claims.

Claims

1. A variable footprint apparatus (201 , 501 , 501 501 ”) for lifting containers comprising:

- a pair of columns (255, 275, 300, 555, 575, 600), each of which developing along a vertical direction of development (A),

- ground support elements (280, 305, 580, 605) connected to a lower portion of the columns (255, 275, 300, 555, 575, 600), and

- a crosspiece (320, 330, 620, 630), extending along a direction of development (B) transverse to the direction of development (A) and having a first end associated with one column of the pair of columns and a second end associated with the other column of the pair of columns, wherein at least one between a column of the pair of columns and the crosspiece is of telescopic type and comprises a male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a) and a female section (830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b), slidably associated in such a way as to be moved closer to/away from each other along the respective direction of development (A, B), wherein said male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a) comprises a protrusion (900) or indentation (905) extending longitudinally along the respective direction of development (A, B) and transversely in a direction perpendicular to the direction of development (A, B), and wherein said female section (830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b) comprises a portion conjugated (901 , 906) to said protrusion (900) or indentation (905) so as to form with it a prismatic connection defining a sliding axis parallel to the respective direction of development (A, B).

2. A variable footprint apparatus (201 , 501 , 501 ’, 501 ”) according to claim 1 , comprising a linear actuator (270, 296, 315, 570, 596) provided with a first axial end associated with the male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a) and a second axial end associated with the female section (830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b) and configured to move the male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a) and the female section (830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b) closer to/away from each other along the respective direction of development (A, B), and wherein said linear actuator (270, 296, 315, 570, 596) is at least partially accommodated in the protrusion (900) or indentation (905) of the male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a).

3. A variable footprint apparatus (201 , 501 , 501 ’, 501 ”) according to claim 2, wherein the linear actuator (270, 296, 315, 570, 596) is entirely accommodated in the protrusion (900) or indentation (905) of the male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a).

4. A variable footprint apparatus (201 , 501 , 501’, 501”) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a) comprises, along an entire portion thereof coupled to the female section (830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b), a cross-section provided with a base portion having a convex polygonal shape and a secondary portion, which protrudes externally from the base portion (900) in the case where the male section (260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a) comprises the protrusion (900) or internally to the base portion in the case where the male section (820) comprises the indentation (905).

5. A variable footprint apparatus (201 , 501 , 501 ’, 501 ”) according to the preceding claim, wherein the female section (830, 265, 295, 300b, 320b, 330b, 565, 595, 620b) comprises, along an entire portion thereof coupled to the male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a), a cross-section provided with an inner perimeter that surrounds to measure an outer perimeter of the cross-section of the male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a).

6. A variable footprint apparatus (201 , 501 , 501 ’, 501 ”) according to claim 5, wherein the outer perimeter of the male section (260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a) comprises:

- a first section (910) and an opposite second section (915) which are straight and parallel to each other, each provided with a first longitudinal end (910a, 915a) and an opposite second longitudinal end (910b, 915b),

- a third straight section (920) connecting the first longitudinal ends (910a, 915a) of the first section (910) and the second section (915),

- a fourth straight section (925) developing from the second longitudinal end (910b) of the first section (910) perpendicularly thereto and in the direction moving closer to the second section (915),

- a fifth straight section (930) developing from a longitudinal end of the fourth section (925) opposite to the first section (910), perpendicular thereto, and in a direction moving away from the third section (920),

- a sixth straight section (935) developing from a longitudinal end of the fifth section

(930) opposite to the fourth section (925), perpendicularly thereto, and in a direction moving closer to the second section (915),

- a seventh straight section (940) developing from a longitudinal end of the sixth section

(935) opposite to the fifth section (930), perpendicularly thereto, and in the direction moving closer to the third section (920) until it intersects an imaginary line connecting the second longitudinal end (910b) of the first section (910) with the second longitudinal end (915b) of the second section (915), and

- an eighth straight section (945) developing from a longitudinal end of the seventh section (940) and connecting said seventh section (940) to the second longitudinal end (915b) of the second section (915).

7. A variable footprint apparatus (201 , 501 , 501 ’, 501 ”) according to claim 5, wherein the outer perimeter of the male section (820) comprises:

- a fifth straight section (931) developing from a longitudinal end of the fourth section (925) opposite to the first section (910), perpendicularly thereto, and in the direction moving closer to the third section (920),

- a sixth straight section (936) developing from a longitudinal end of the fifth section

(931) opposite to the fourth section (925), perpendicularly thereto, and in a direction moving closer to the second section (915),

- a seventh straight section (941 ) developing from a longitudinal end of the sixth section

(936) opposite to the fifth section (931), perpendicularly thereto, and in a direction moving away from the third section (920) until it intersects an imaginary line connecting the second longitudinal end (910b) of the first section (910) with the second longitudinal end (915b) of the second section (915), and - an eighth straight section (945) developing from a longitudinal end of the seventh section (941) and connecting said seventh section (941) to the second longitudinal end (915b) of the second section (915).

8. A variable footprint apparatus (201 , 501 , 501 501 ”) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein a cross-section of the linear actuator (270, 296, 315, 570, 596) is internally comprised in a portion of the cross-section of the male section (820, 260, 290, 300a, 320a, 330a, 560, 590, 620a) between the fifth section (930, 931), the sixth section (935, 936), the seventh section (940, 941) and an imaginary line connecting the end of the fourth section (925) from which the fifth section (930, 931 ) develops with the longitudinal end of the seventh section (940, 941) from which the eighth section (945) develops.