Aerial work platforms, such as boom lifts, include a platform assembly that is designed to support people and/or objects so that tasks can be performed at different heights relative to the ground below. In some instances, an operator of the aerial work platform may need to exit the platform assembly to perform a task, which can be difficult and inefficient.
One exemplary embodiment relates to a lift device. The lift device includes a chassis, a primary platform defining a first support surface configured to support an operator, a lift assembly coupling the primary platform to the chassis and configured to raise the primary platform relative to the chassis, and a secondary platform defining a second support surface and removably coupled to the primary platform.
Another exemplary embodiment relates to a removable platform system for a lift device including a platform configured to be removably coupled to the lift device and a locker assembly. The platform includes a base defining a horizontal support surface, a guardrail coupled to the base and extending above the horizontal support surface, the guardrail defining an opening through which the horizontal support surface can be accessed, and a door coupled to the guardrail and repositionable to selectively extend across the opening. The locker assembly includes a base panel, a rear panel coupled to the base panel, a pair of door panels each pivotally coupled to the rear panel and rotatable relative to the rear panel between an open position and a closed position, and a lock configured to secure the door panels in the closed positions and configured to permit movement of the door panels to the open positions in response to receiving a verified credential. When the door panels are in the closed positions, the door panels, the rear panel, and the base panel form an enclosure sized to contain the platform.
Another exemplary embodiment relates to a boom lift. The boom lift includes a chassis, a tractive element coupled to the chassis, a drive motor coupled to the chassis and configured to drive the tractive element to propel the boom lift, a boom assembly coupled to the chassis, the boom assembly including a boom actuator configured to raise a distal end of the boom assembly relative to the chassis, a primary platform coupled to the distal end of the boom assembly, and secondary platform removably coupled to the primary platform. The primary platform includes a base, a rear guardrail coupled to the base, a pair of side guardrails defining a first opening therebetween, the first opening being positioned opposite the rear guardrail, a first user interface coupled to the rear guardrail and configured to control operation of the drive motor and the boom actuator, and a second user interface coupled to at least one of the side guardrails and configured to control operation of the boom actuator. The secondary platform includes an implement at least one of electrically or hydraulically coupled to the primary platform.
The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being carried out in various ways. Alternative exemplary embodiments relate to other features and combinations of features as may be recited herein.
The disclosure will become more fully understood from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements, in which:
Before turning to the figures, which illustrate the exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present application is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting.
Referring to the FIGURES generally, the various exemplary embodiments disclosed herein relate to aerial work platforms, such as boom lifts, that are operable using a customizable and exchangeable platform assembly. The aerial work platforms (AWPs) generally include a primary platform assembly that is coupled to a lifting mechanism (e.g., a boom, scissor mechanism, etc.). The primary platform assembly includes a quick-attach coupling mechanism that is configured to engage with and lock onto various different types of secondary platform assemblies that can be used to perform a variety of different tasks. The coupling mechanism can automatically position the primary platform assembly, using the lifting mechanism, in a position so that a robust yet removable coupling is formed between the primary platform assembly and the secondary platform assembly, such that the lifting mechanism is then configured to transport each of the primary platform assembly and the secondary platform assembly simultaneously.
The quick-attach coupling mechanism allows the AWP to efficiently perform a number of tasks that are normally difficult or time consuming to execute with traditional AWPs. For example, the use of a secondary platform assembly as a material handler can allow the AWP to easily place tools or materials at an elevated jobsite without needing an operator to leave the platform assembly. Similarly, the secondary platform assembly can support tool assemblies that can be used for specific tasks at height. Finally, the ability to quickly exchange secondary platform assemblies on the same AWP allows for customization and optimization at a jobsite. For example, several secondary platform assemblies can be pre-packaged with tools specific for a job to be performed that day, which can increase efficiency at a jobsite. Similarly, secondary platform assemblies can be tailored for specific tasks, generally, so that tools and other items do not need to be removed or exchanged from the secondary platform assembly before performing a new task. Instead, the primary platform assembly can decouple from one secondary platform assembly so that a second, entirely pre-packed secondary platform assembly can be coupled with the primary platform assembly to perform a new task. Accordingly, the operator using the AWP can continue performing tasks with the AWP efficiently, without needing to even leave the primary platform assembly. Likewise, exchangeable secondary platform assemblies allow a customer to design secondary platform assemblies specifically for their jobsites and specifically for accomplishing commonly-performed tasks.
Referring to
The base assembly 12 defines a longitudinal axis 78 and a lateral axis 80. The longitudinal axis 78 define the forward direction 50 of boom 10 and the rearward direction 51. The boom 10 is configured to translate in the forward direction 50 and to translate backwards in the rearward direction 51. The base assembly 12 includes one or more wheels, tires, wheel assemblies, tractive elements, rotary elements, treads, etc., shown as tractive elements 82. The tractive elements 82 are configured to rotate to drive (e.g., translate, steer, move, etc.) the boom 10. The tractive elements 82 can each include an electric motor 52 (e.g., electric wheel motors) configured to drive the tractive elements 82 (e.g., to rotate tractive elements 82 to facilitation motion of the boom 10). In other embodiments, the tractive elements 82 are configured to receive power (e.g., rotational mechanical energy) from electric motors 52 or through a drive train (e.g., a combination of any number and configuration of a shaft, an axle, a gear reduction, a gear train, a transmission, etc.). In some embodiments, one or more tractive elements 82 are driven by a prime mover through a transmission. The tractive elements 82 and electric motors 52 (or prime mover) can facilitate a driving and/or steering function of the boom 10.
The platform assembly 16 is configured to provide a work area for an operator of the boom 10 to stand/rest upon. The platform assembly 16 can be pivotally coupled to an upper end of the lift assembly 14. The boom 10 is configured to facilitate the operator accessing various elevated areas (e.g., lights, platforms, the sides of buildings, building scaffolding, trees, power lines, etc.). The boom 10 uses various electrically powered motors and electrically powered linear actuators or hydraulic cylinders to facilitate elevation of the platform assembly 16 (e.g., relative to the base assembly 12, or to a ground surface that the base assembly 12 rests upon).
The platform assembly 16 includes a base member, a base portion, a platform, a standing surface, a shelf, a work platform, a floor, a deck, etc., shown as a deck 18. The deck 18 provides a space (e.g., a floor surface) for a worker to stand upon as the platform assembly 16 is raised and lowered.
The platform assembly 16 includes various members, beams, bars, guard rails, rails, railings, etc., shown as rails 22. The rails 22 extend along substantially an entire perimeter of the deck 18. The rails 22 provide one or more members for the operator of the boom 10 to grasp while using the boom 10 (e.g., to grasp while operating the boom 10 to elevate the platform assembly 16). The rails 22 can include members that are substantially horizontal to the deck 18. The rails 22 can also include vertical structural members that couple with the substantially horizontal members. The vertical structural members can extend upwards from the deck 18.
The platform assembly 16 can include a human machine interface (HMI) (e.g., a user interface), shown as the HMI 20. The HMI 20 is configured to receive user inputs from the operator at or upon the platform assembly 16 to facilitate operation of the boom 10. The HMI 20 can include any number of buttons, levers, switches, keys, etc., or any other user input device configured to receive a user input to operate the boom 10 and/or output device configured to provide information to the user. The HMI 20 can be supported by one or more of the rails 22. The HMI 20 is described in additional detail below.
The platform assembly 16 includes a frame 24 (e.g., structural members, support beams, a body, a structure, etc.) that extends at least partially below the deck 18. The frame 24 can be integrally formed with the deck 18. The frame 24 is configured to provide structural support for the deck 18 of the platform assembly 16. The frame 24 can include any number of structural members (e.g., beams, bars, I-beams, etc.) to support the deck 18. The frame 24 couples the platform assembly 16 with the lift assembly 14. The frame 24 may be rotatably or pivotally coupled with the lift assembly 14 to facilitate rotation of the platform assembly 16 about an axis 28 (e.g., a centerline). The frame 24 can also rotatably/pivotally couple with the lift assembly 14 such that the frame 24 and the platform assembly 16 can pivot about an axis 25 (e.g., a centerline).
The lift assembly 14 includes one or more beams, articulated arms, bars, booms, arms, support members, boom sections, cantilever beams, etc., shown as lift arms 32. The lift arms 32 are hingedly or rotatably coupled with each other at their ends. The lift arms 32 can be hingedly or rotatably coupled to facilitate articulation of the lift assembly 14 and raising/lowering of the platform assembly 16. The boom 10 includes a lower lift arm 32a, a central or medial lift arm 32b, and an upper lift arm 32c. The lower lift arm 32a is configured to hingedly or rotatably couple at one end with the base assembly 12 to facilitate lifting (e.g., elevation) of the platform assembly 16. The lower lift arm 32a is configured to hingedly or rotatably couple at an opposite end with the medial lift arm 32b. Likewise, the medial lift arm 32b is configured to hingedly or rotatably couple with the upper lift arm 32c. The upper lift arm 32c can be configured to hingedly interface/couple and/or telescope with an intermediate lift arm 32d. The upper lift arm 32c can be referred to as “the jib” of the electric boom 10. The intermediate lift arm 32d may extend into an inner volume of the upper lift arm 32c and extend and/or retract. The lower lift arm 32a and the medial lift arm 32b may be referred to as “the boom” of the overall boom 10 assembly. The intermediate lift arm 32d can be configured to couple (e.g., rotatably, hingedly, etc.), with the platform assembly 16 to facilitate levelling of the platform assembly 16.
The lift arms 32 are driven to hinge or rotate relative to each other by actuators 34 (e.g., electric linear actuators, linear electric arm actuators, hydraulic cylinders, etc.). The actuators 34 can be mounted between adjacent lift arms 32 to drive adjacent lift arms 32 to hinge or pivot (e.g., rotate some angular amount) relative to each other about pivot points 84. The actuators 34 can be mounted between adjacent lift arms 32 using any of a foot bracket, a flange bracket, a clevis bracket, a trunnion bracket, etc. The actuators 34 are configured to extend or retract (e.g., increase in overall length, or decrease in overall length) to facilitate pivoting adjacent lift arms 32 to pivot/hinge relative to each other, thereby articulating the lift arms 32 and raising or lowering the platform assembly 16.
The actuators 34 can be configured to extend (e.g., increase in length) to increase a value of an angle 74 formed between adjacent lift arms 32. The angle 74 can be defined between centerlines of adjacent lift arms 32 (e.g., centerlines that extend substantially through a center of the lift arms 32). For example, the actuator 34a is configured to extend/retract to increase/decrease the angle 74a defined between a centerline of the lower lift arm 32a and the longitudinal axis 78 (angle 74a can also be defined between the centerline of the lower lift arm 32a and a plane defined by the longitudinal axis 78 and lateral axis 80) and facilitate lifting of the platform assembly 16 (e.g., moving platform assembly 16 at least partially along the upward direction 46). Likewise, the actuator 34b can be configured to retract to decrease the angle 74a to facilitate lowering of the platform assembly 16 (e.g., moving platform assembly 16 at least partially along the downward direction 48). Similarly, the actuator 34b is configured to extend to increase the angle 74b defined between centerlines of the lower lift arm 32a and the medial lift arm 32b and facilitate elevating of the platform assembly 16. Similarly, the actuator 34b is configured to retract to decrease the angle 74b to facilitate lowering of the platform assembly 16. The electric actuator 34c is similarly configured to extend/retract to increase/decrease the angle 74c, respectively, to raise/lower the platform assembly 16.
The actuators 34 can be mounted (e.g., rotatably coupled, pivotally coupled, etc.) to adjacent lift arms 32 at mounts 40 (e.g., mounting members, mounting portions, attachment members, attachment portions, etc.). The mounts 40 can be positioned at any position along a length of each lift arm 32. For example, the mounts 40 can be positioned at a midpoint of each lift arm 32, and a lower end of each lift arm 32.
The intermediate lift arm 32d and the frame 24 are configured to pivotally interface/couple at a platform rotator 30 (e.g., a rotary actuator, a rotational electric actuator, a gear box, etc.). The platform rotator 30 facilitates rotation of the platform assembly 16 about the axis 28 relative to the intermediate lift arm 32d. In some embodiments, the platform rotator 30 is between the frame 24 and the upper lift arm 32c and facilitates pivoting of the platform assembly 16 relative to the upper lift arm 32c. The axis 28 extends through a central pivot point of the platform rotator 30. The intermediate lift arm 32d is also configured to extend/retract along the upper lift arm 32c. The intermediate lift arm 32d can also be configured to pivotally/rotatably couple with the upper lift arm 32c such that the intermediate lift arm 32d pivots/rotates about the axis 25. The intermediate lift arm 32d can be driven to rotate/pivot about axis 25 by extension and retraction of the actuator 34d.
The platform assembly 16 is configured to be driven to pivot about the axis 28 (e.g., rotate about axis 28 in either a clockwise or a counter-clockwise direction) by an electric or hydraulic motor 26 (e.g., a rotary electric actuator, a stepper motor, a platform rotator, a platform electric motor, an electric platform rotator motor, etc.). The motor 26 can be configured to drive the frame 24 to pivot about the axis 28 relative to the upper lift arm 32c (or relative to the intermediate lift arm 32d). The motor 26 can be configured to drive a gear train to pivot the platform assembly 16 about the axis 28.
The lift assembly 14 is configured to pivotally or rotatably couple with the base assembly 12. The base assembly 12 include a rotatable base member, a rotatable platform member, a fully electric turntable, etc., shown as a turntable 70. The lift assembly 14 is configured to rotatably/pivotally couple with the base assembly 12. The turntable 70 is rotatably coupled with a base, frame, structural support member, carriage, etc., of base assembly 12, shown as base 36. The turntable 70 is configured to rotate or pivot relative to the base 36. The turntable 70 can pivot/rotate about the central axis 42 relative to base 36, about a slew bearing 71. The turntable 70 facilitates accessing various elevated and angularly offset locations at the platform assembly 16. The turntable 70 is configured to be driven to rotate or pivot relative to base 36 and about the slew bearing 71 by an electric motor, an electric turntable motor, an electric rotary actuator, etc., shown as the turntable motor 44. The turntable motor 44 can be configured to drive a geared outer surface 73 of the slew bearing 71 that is rotatably coupled with base 36 about the slew bearing 71 to rotate the turntable 70 relative to the base 36. The lower lift arm 32a is pivotally coupled with the turntable 70 (or with a turntable member 72 of the turntable 70) such that the lift assembly 14 and the platform assembly 16 rotate as the turntable 70 rotates about the central axis 42. In some embodiments, the turntable 70 is configured to rotate a complete 360 degrees about the central axis 42 relative to the base 36. In other embodiments, the turntable 70 is configured to rotate an angular amount less than 360 degrees about the central axis 42 relative to the base 36 (e.g., 270 degrees, 120 degrees, etc.).
The base assembly 12 includes one or more energy storage devices (e.g., capacitors, batteries, Lithium-Ion batteries, Nickel Cadmium batteries, fuel tanks, etc.), shown as batteries 64. The batteries 64 are configured to store energy in a form (e.g., in the form of chemical energy) that can be converted into electrical energy for the various electric motors and actuators of the boom 10. The batteries 64 can be stored within the base 36. The boom 10 includes a controller 38 that is configured to operate any of the motors, actuators, etc., of the boom 10. The controller 38 can be configured to receive sensory input information from various sensors of the boom 10, user inputs from the HMI 20 (or any other user input device such as a key-start or a push-button start), etc. The controller 38 can be configured to generate control signals for the various motors, actuators, etc., of the boom 10 to operate any of the motors, actuators, electrically powered movers, etc., of the boom 10. The batteries 64 are configured to power any of the motors, sensors, actuators, electric linear actuators, electrical devices, electrical movers, stepper motors, etc., of the boom 10. The base assembly 12 can include a power circuit including any necessary transformers, resistors, transistors, thermistors, capacitors, etc., to provide appropriate power (e.g., electrical energy with appropriate current and/or appropriate voltage) to any of the motors, electric actuators, sensors, electrical devices, etc., of the boom 10. Alternatively, in some examples, the base assembly 12 includes an internal combustion engine that is configured to charge and/or provide energy to the one or more energy storage devices (i.e., the batteries 64).
The batteries 64 are configured to deliver power to the motors 52 to drive the tractive elements 82. A rear set of tractive elements 82 can be configured to pivot to steer the boom 10. In other embodiments, a front set of tractive elements 82 are configured to pivot to steer the boom 10. In still other embodiments, both the front and the rear set of tractive elements 82 are configured to pivot (e.g., independently) to steer the boom 10. In some examples, the base assembly 12 includes a steering system 150. The steering system 150 is configured to drive tractive elements 82 to pivot for a turn of the boom 10. The steering system 150 can be configured to pivot the tractive elements 82 in pairs (e.g., to pivot a front pair of tractive elements 82), or can be configured to pivot tractive elements 82 independently (e.g., four-wheel steering for tight-turns).
In some examples, the base assembly 12 also includes an HMI 21 (e.g., a user interface, a user input device, a display screen, etc.). In some embodiments, the HMI 21 is coupled with the base 36. In other embodiments, the HMI 21 is positioned on the turntable 70. The HMI 21 can be positioned on any side or surface of the base assembly 12 (e.g., on the front 62 of the base 36, on the rear 60 of the base 36, etc.)
Referring now to
In some embodiments, the longitudinally extending frame member 54 and the lateral frame members 110 are integrally formed or coupled (e.g., fastened, welded, riveted, etc.) to define the base 36. In still other embodiments, the base 36 is integrally formed with the longitudinally extending frame member 54 and/or the lateral frame members 110. In still other embodiments, the base 36 is coupled with the longitudinally extending frame member 54 and/or the lateral frame members 110.
The base assembly 12 includes one or more axle actuators 56 (e.g., electric linear actuators, electric axle actuators, electric levelling actuators, hydraulic cylinders, etc.). The axle actuators 56 can be linear actuators configured to receive power from the batteries 64, for example. The axle actuators 56 can be configured to extend or retract to contact a top surface of a corresponding one of the lateral frame members 110. When the axle actuators 56 extend, an end of a rod of the levelling actuators can contact the surface of lateral frame member 110 and prevent relative rotation between lateral frame member 110 and longitudinally extending frame member 54. In this way, the relative rotation/pivoting between the lateral frame member 110 and the longitudinally extending frame member 54 can be locked (e.g., to prevent rolling of the longitudinally extending frame member 54 relative to the lateral frame members 110 during operation of the lift assembly 14). The axle actuators 56 can receive power from the batteries 64, which can allow the axle actuators 56 to extend or retract. The axle actuators 56 receive control signals from controller 38.
Referring now to
In some examples, each of the rail panels 204 within the rail structure 202 is differently shaped. For example, each of the side panels 206 can include a raised handlebar 208 configured to provide support for the hands of an operator standing on the platform base 200. The rear panel 210 can include a raised segment 212 that extends above the other components within the rail structure 202. In some examples, each of the raised segment 212 and raised handlebars 208 can be positioned above control panels 214, 216, 218 on the platform assembly 16. As depicted in
With additional reference to
Referring now to
The coupling process between the primary platform assembly 16 and a secondary platform assembly 300 can be an autonomous or semi-autonomous process carried out by the control panels 214, 216, 218. For example, in some embodiments, an operator can interact with the joysticks on one or more of the auxiliary control panels 216, 218 or the main control panels 214 to position the primary platform assembly 16 relative to the secondary platform assembly 300. In some examples, the primary platform assembly 16 is defined by a width that is approximately half a width of the secondary platform assembly 16. The operator can position the primary platform assembly 16 to be approximately centered relative to secondary platform assembly 300, which corresponds to a location in which the locking mechanism 240 can engage and secure the secondary platform assembly 300. The locking mechanism 240 can be actuated by an input 224 on one of the control panels 214, 216, 218.
In some examples, the coupling process between the primary platform assembly 16 and the secondary platform assembly 300 is more automated. An operator can first position the platform assembly 16 nearby a secondary platform assembly 300. Once the primary platform assembly 16 is positioned within close proximity to a secondary platform assembly 300 (e.g., 2 feet, 6 feet, 10 feet, etc.), the operator can initiate a coupling sequence. In some examples, the coupling sequence between the primary platform assembly 16 and the secondary platform assembly 300 can begin when the operator actuates one or more inputs 224 on one of the auxiliary control panels 216, 218 or one of the inputs 222 on the main control panel 214.
Once the input 222, 224 has been actuated or otherwise interacted with, the coupling process begins. One or more sensors 226 positioned on the primary platform assembly 16 can begin scanning to the location of the secondary platform assembly 300. The sensors 226 can be in communication with one or more of the control panels 214, 216, 218, and can provide data that can allow one or more controllers 228 associated with the control panels 214, 216, 218 to adjust a position of the primary platform assembly 16 relative to the secondary platform assembly 300 using the lift assembly 14. The sensors 226 continuously scan for the location of the coupling area 302 of the secondary platform assembly 300, and feedback from the sensors 226 is provided to the controllers 228 to adjust the positioning of the primary platform assembly 16 until it is positioned properly, centered relative to the secondary platform assembly 300. In some examples, the sensors 226 are optical sensors (e.g., cameras) that obtain video or image feedback to the controllers 228. In other examples, the sensors 226 use radio frequencies (e.g., RFID, Wi-Fi, near-field communication) or electromagnetic signals to detect a location of the secondary platform assembly 300 relative to the primary platform assembly 16. In still other examples, position sensors can be used. The coupling area 302 of the secondary platform assembly 300 can be provided with visual cues (e.g., retroreflective markers, etc.) or other positioning features (e.g., radio frequency tags, etc.) that are configured for use with the sensors 226 and the controllers 228 to help achieve a precise positioning process every time using a closed loop feedback system.
The controllers 228, sensors 226, and lift assembly 14 continue to adjust a position of the primary platform assembly 16 relative to the secondary platform assembly 300 until the appropriate relative positioning is achieved for creating a coupling. Once this positioning is accomplished, the locking mechanism 240 (e.g., a lock) can be engaged. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 240 is coupled to the primary platform assembly 16 and selectively and removably engages with the secondary platform assembly 300. In some embodiments, the locking assembly 240 is manually actuated by a user (e.g., by moving a lever, etc.). In other embodiments, the locking assembly 240 is controlled by the controllers 228 (e.g., through electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic actuation, etc.). In some examples, the locking mechanism 240 includes arms that are configured to engage a platform base 304 of the secondary platform assembly 300. In some examples, the arms can be positioned on either side of the platform base 304 so that a clamp-style coupling is created between the primary platform assembly 16 and the secondary platform assembly 300. In other examples, the arms extend outwardly and are configured to rotate into engagement with fork pockets 306 that are formed beneath the platform base 304. The arms rotate outwardly, into engagement with inner walls 308 of the fork pockets 306. The engagement between the arms of the locking mechanism 240 and the fork pockets 306 can create a rigid, yet releasable coupling that can be readily engaged and disengaged to facilitate the use of several secondary platform assemblies 300 at a jobsite. In still other examples, the arms of the locking mechanism extend forward, approximately parallel to the fork pockets 306 but positioned laterally inside of the fork pockets 306, within the coupling area 302. The arms can include hooks that extend upwardly, which can be used to secure with a forward end of the platform base 304.
Once the locking mechanism 240 has engaged the secondary platform assembly 300 and the coupling is created, the combined platform assembly 400 is created. The combined platform assembly 400 can then be lifted and otherwise positioned using the lift assembly 14, allowing both the primary platform assembly 16 and the secondary platform assembly 300 to be moved to accomplish tasks at height. Likewise, an operator can then use the inputs on the control panels 214, 216, 218 to move the combined platform assembly 400 and boom 10 to desired locations.
The quick coupling process that can be performed by the locking mechanism 240 of the primary platform assembly 16 allows the boom 10 to be used in a highly-customizable and efficient manner that conventional booms are not able to achieve. For example, and as shown in
Once the secondary platform assembly 300 is positioned in a desired location at the elevated area (e.g., on top of a concrete slab), the operator can decouple the secondary platform assembly 300 from the primary platform assembly 16, as depicted in
As depicted in
When the primary platform assembly 16 and the secondary platform assembly 300 are aligned with one another, the opening 219 aligns with the opening 311, and the support surface 205 aligns with (e.g., becomes substantially coplanar with) the support surface 309. Accordingly, when the front panel 220 is opened, the support surface 205 and the support surface 309 form one continuous work surface that combines the area of the support surface 205 and the support surface 309. Accordingly, the combined platform assembly 400 provides a large area to support operators and/or objects. In some embodiments, the area of the support surface 309 is larger than the area of the support surface 205.
With the material handling crate version of the secondary platform assembly 300 positioned upon the working surface and released (e.g., decoupled) from the primary platform assembly 16, the primary platform assembly 16 can couple with another secondary work platform assembly 300 to bring additional tools and/or a larger workspace to the working area. For example, and as depicted in
Referring now to
In some examples, the tether 320 can be coupled with a smart lanyard 330 worn by the operator. The smart lanyard 330 can communicate a position of the operator to the controllers 228 and or the control panels 214, 216, 218, which can then position the primary platform assembly 16 using the lift assembly 14 in response to movement. In some examples, the boom 10 performs a follow function based upon the location of the smart lanyard 330. The smart lanyard 330 can be equipped with an accelerometer that is configured to detect fall conditions. The smart lanyard 330 can also function as login device for one or more of the control panels 214, 216, 218, that enables access and operation of the boom 10. The smart lanyard 330 can provide a wired or wireless connection with the one or more control panels 214, 216, 218 to transmit energy and data.
The use of removable secondary platform assemblies 300 with the primary platform assembly 16 also creates a variety of other opportunities to promote efficiency at a jobsite. For example, as depicted in
The locker assemblies 500 are configured to form a secure enclosure around tools and other valuables that may be left at a jobsite overnight. Similar to the coupling and decoupling processes described above, an operator can use the inputs on the control panels 214, 216, 218 to decouple a secondary platform assembly 300 from the primary platform assembly 16. In some examples, one or more of the control panels 214, 216, 218 can include an input for automatically positioning the secondary platform assembly 300 on the base section 502 using the sensors 226 described above. With the platform base 304 positioned on the base section 502, the primary platform assembly 16 can first be moved away using the lift assembly 14. Next, the doors 506, 508 can be rotated inward, about the hinge joints, until a secure enclosure is formed around the entire secondary platform assembly 300. In some examples, the doors 506, 508 include an interlocking feature 510 that can create a secure connection to store the secondary platform assembly 300. In other examples, the doors 506, 508 include overlapping tabs that are configured to receive a padlock for securing the locker assembly 500 in a closed position. In some examples, a keypad or code entry is positioned on one of the doors 506, 508, and automatically opens the doors 506, 508 upon receiving the correct code. Accordingly, the interlocking feature 510 may prevent opening of the doors 506, 508 unless a verified credential (e.g., a predetermined code, a physical key, etc.). Using one or more of the locking mechanisms described above, tools and other work materials can be easily and efficiently stored overnight and then readily accessed again the following day. While conventional systems may require tools to be moved from the platform each day, resulting in wasted time and extra labor, the locker assemblies 500 and removable secondary platform assemblies 300 provide a much faster and more efficient storage method.
The locker assemblies 500 also provide for efficient transport to and from jobsites. For example, and as depicted in
In some examples, and as shown in
Like the secondary platform assemblies 300 discussed above, the robotic secondary platform assembly 600 is hot-swappable and readily exchangeable with the primary platform assembly. As depicted in
Referring now to
The platform building tool 700 can begin with a basic steel platform 702, shown in
As depicted in
Although this description may discuss a specific order of method steps, the order of the steps may differ from what is outlined. Also two or more steps may be performed concurrently or with partial concurrence. Such variation will depend on the software and hardware systems chosen and on designer choice. All such variations are within the scope of the disclosure. Likewise, software implementations could be accomplished with standard programming techniques with rule-based logic and other logic to accomplish the various connection steps, processing steps, comparison steps, and decision steps.
As utilized herein, the terms “approximately”, “about”, “substantially”, and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the invention as recited in the appended claims.
It should be noted that the term “exemplary” as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and/or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples).
The terms “coupled,” “connected,” and the like, as used herein, mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent, etc.) or moveable (e.g., removable, releasable, etc.). Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another.
References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” “between,” etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the figures. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure.
It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the lift device as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the components described herein may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present inventions. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from scope of the present disclosure or from the spirit of the appended claims.
This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/311,734, filed on Feb. 18, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
Number | Date | Country | |
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63311734 | Feb 2022 | US |