MODULAR SAFETY FENCING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USE THEREOF

Information

  • Patent Application
  • 20240352754
  • Publication Number
    20240352754
  • Date Filed
    August 18, 2022
    2 years ago
  • Date Published
    October 24, 2024
    a month ago
  • Inventors
    • FREDERIKSEN; René Mahrt
    • WICKSELL; Sebastian
  • Original Assignees
    • Save and Cover AB
Abstract
Disclosed is a modular safety fencing system and a method for using a modular safety fencing system. The modular safety fencing system has at least one module having a rigid box and a covering, at least two telescopic side frames adjustable according to required height to enable the modular safety fencing system to extend between top surface and bottom surface of building structure, top connector connecting the modular safety fencing system to top surface, and at least one fastener for securely fastening the at least one module to bottom surface. When the modular safety fencing system is in use, the covering at least partially covers space between top surface and bottom surface of building structure.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a modular safety fencing system. Moreover, the present disclosure also relates to a method for using a modular safety fencing system.


BACKGROUND

During construction (for example, of a building or a room) or repair work, a construction site is required to be protected from elements (such as, wind, rain, dirt, dust, debris, and the like), so as to avoid any damage to an infrastructure of the construction site. Moreover, safety precautions and protective systems are required to protect people and equipment, and to avoid debris of construction materials from falling and thereby harming life and property in an environment of the construction site.


Conventionally, protective systems such as safety fences, guard rails (for example, protective guarding), or barriers have been utilised for safety and protection at the construction site. Additionally, enclosure cloths or enclosure tarps have been utilised to provide protection to the construction site from the elements. Moreover, since construction projects are temporary and last only until their completion, these protective systems are required to be strong enough to protect the construction site, people and equipment when in use, while also being portable so that the protective systems can be dismantled and re-used at another construction site. However, existing protective systems are not sturdy and do not provide requisite safety and protection. As a result, construction sites continue to face damage and the people and equipment present at such construction sites are also prone to serious injury. Moreover, the existing protective systems are not designed to adapt to the various construction sites having building structures of various dimensions. Additionally, the existing protective systems cannot easily be mounted or dismounted. The existing protective systems are also not sustainable as the enclosure cloths or enclosure tarps are typically single-use materials and are disposed after used.


Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists a need to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks associated with ineffective existing protective systems.


SUMMARY

The present disclosure seeks to provide a modular safety fencing system. The present disclosure also seeks to provide a method for using a modular safety fencing system. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide a solution that overcomes at least partially the problems encountered in prior art.


In one aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a modular safety fencing system comprising:

    • at least one module comprising a rigid box and a covering;
    • at least two telescopic side frames that are adjustable according to a required height of the modular safety fencing system for enabling the modular safety fencing system to extend between a top surface and a bottom surface of a building structure;
    • a top connector for connecting the modular safety fencing system to the top surface; and
    • at least one fastener for securely fastening the at least one module to the bottom surface,


      wherein, when the modular safety fencing system is in use, the covering at least partially covers a space between the top surface and the bottom surface of the building structure.


In another aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for using a modular safety fencing system of the aforementioned aspect, the method comprising:

    • installing the modular safety fencing system in a building structure; and
    • unrolling a covering to at least partially cover a space between a top surface and a bottom surface of the building structure.


Embodiments of the present disclosure substantially eliminate or at least partially address the aforementioned problems in the prior art, and effectively provide protection from unwanted elements at a construction site whilst also providing safety of life and property at the construction site.


Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.


It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.





BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those skilled in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale. Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.


Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:



FIG. 1 illustrates an architecture of a modular safety fencing system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;



FIG. 2 is an exemplary schematic illustration of a modular safety fencing system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;



FIG. 3 is an exemplary schematic illustration of a modular safety fencing system, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure;



FIG. 4 is an exemplary schematic illustration of a perspective view of a modular safety fencing system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;



FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary interior view of a rigid box, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;



FIG. 6 illustrates a covering, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and



FIG. 7 is a flowchart depicting steps of a method for using a modular safety fencing system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.





In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.


DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practising the present disclosure are also possible.


In one aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a modular safety fencing system comprising:

    • at least one module comprising a rigid box and a covering;
    • at least two telescopic side frames that are adjustable according to a required height of the modular safety fencing system for enabling the modular safety fencing system to extend between a top surface and a bottom surface of a building structure;
    • a top connector for connecting the modular safety fencing system to the top surface; and
    • at least one fastener for securely fastening the at least one module to the bottom surface,


      wherein, when the modular safety fencing system is in use, the covering at least partially covers a space between the top surface and the bottom surface of the building structure.


In another aspect, an embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method for using a modular safety fencing system of the aforementioned aspect, the method comprising:

    • installing the modular safety fencing system in a building structure; and
    • unrolling a covering to at least partially cover a space between a top surface and a bottom surface of the building structure.


The present disclosure provides the aforementioned modular safety fencing system and the aforementioned method of using said modular safety fencing system. The modular safety fencing system can be beneficially utilised at the building structure to protect the building structure from unwanted elements (such as, wind, rain, dirt, dust, debris, and the like), while also protecting from harm to life or property in and around the building structure. The modular safety fencing system has module(s) along with telescopic side frames which are strong, adjustable and portable, such that it can be adaptively reused by changing the height for different building structures, while ensuring safety and protection of the building structures, life and equipment. Moreover, the top connector and fastener(s) reinforce support of the modular safety fencing system with respect to the building structure, providing improved safety. The modular safety fencing system can further be beneficially used to advance the drying process of the building structure (such as, concrete in the building structure), allowing construction to proceed with shorter interruptions. The covering employed in the modular safety fencing system is re-usable (making the modular safety fencing system sustainable), and acts as an enclosing element, ensuring that the unwanted elements do not damage the building structure. The method of using the modular safety fencing system can be performed to correctly utilise the modular safety fencing system, and ensure a maximum protection possible of and around the building structure.


Throughout the present disclosure, “modular safety fencing system” refers to a barrier and/or enclosure safety fencing system that is provided in a modular form. The modular safety fencing system may be employed as a fence for protection (i.e., safety) in a building. The modular safety fencing system can be employed at the building structure to protect the building structure from elements (for example, such as, wind, rain, debris, dirt, and the like). The modular safety fencing system can also be employed at the building structure to protect and/or safeguard life and property in an environment of the building structure from construction material (for example, such as, cement, debris, beams, and the like). The modular safety fencing system may further be employed at the building structure to advance a drying process of the building structure (such as, concrete in the building structure), allowing construction to proceed without interruptions. Optionally, the modular safety fencing system maintains a higher temperature within the building structure as compared to the environment of the building structure. The higher temperature assists in advancing the drying process. Beneficially, such modular safety fencing systems provide protection to people, equipment and surrounding life and property during construction of/in the building structure. Since requirements (for example, such as, a size, a measure of area, a height) of individual building structures may be different, components of such modular safety fencing systems are easily separated and adaptively recombined for each individual building structure. Beneficially, the modularity of such modular safety fencing systems provides flexibility and variety in use.


Throughout the present disclosure, the term “module” refers to a unit of the modular safety fencing system, which is designed to be separately installed, replaced, or serviced. The at least one module includes an arrangement of components. The at least one module is portable, such that it may be utilized within a variety of systems; and interoperable, such that it may function with all components of a given system.


The term “rigid box” refers to a rigid or sturdy box. The rigid box is designed to protect the modular safety fencing system from falling. Optionally, the rigid box has a three-dimensional shape. Examples of the three-dimensional shape include, but are not limited to, a cuboidal shape, a cubical shape, a trapezoidal prism structure, a parallelepiped structure, a cylindrical shape, a spherical shape, a conical shape, a hexagonal prismatic shape, a triangular prismatic shape, a tetrahedron prismatic shape, and a combination thereof. Optionally, the rigid box has a solid structure. Alternatively, optionally, the rigid box has a hollow structure having a storage space therein. Herein, a thickness of a given rigid box is selected to be such that the given rigid box is strong and reinforced. Optionally, the rigid box is made up of a material including, but not limited to, paper, cardboard, metal, plastic, resin, cement, glass, wood, thermoplastic, carbon fibres, and a combination thereof. Optionally, the rigid box is manufactured using additive manufacturing.


Optionally, the modular safety fencing system is provided with at least one detectable code. The term “detectable code” is a visual and machine-readable form of data that is detectable using a suitable detector. Herein, the data may comprise identification details of the modular safety fencing system, details regarding components of the modular safety fencing system (for example, the module), details regarding the building structure, and the like. Examples of the at least one detectable code include, but are not limited to, a barcode, a quick response (QR) code, a near field communication (NFC) tag, and a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. Optionally, the detectable code is scanned by the suitable detector for detecting the detectable code. Examples of the suitable detector include, but are not limited to, a QR code scanner, a barcode scanner, a camera, an NFC scanner, and an RFID scanner. Optionally, the at least one detectable code is affixed to the at least one module. Optionally, a given detectable code is generated with respect to a given building structure, such that the given detectable code comprises identification details of the given building structure. Optionally, the given detectable code is printed on a suitable material and affixed to a given rigid box of a given module for the given building structure. The given detectable code optionally assists in identifying the components (for example, the given rigid box) of the modular safety fencing system that are designated for the given building structure. Beneficially, when the given detectable code is scanned and verified, an identity of a given component may be deduced to determine that the given component is not a suspicious object.


The term “covering” refers to a material which provides a layer of protection and/or concealment in the modular safety fencing system. Optionally, the covering is made up of a material including, but not limited to, cloth, plastic film, glass, fiberglass, linoleum, plastic sheeting, mesh fabric, and a combination thereof. Optionally, the covering is transparent or translucent. Optionally, a thickness of a given covering is selected to be such that the covering is light and portable, while providing protection from the elements. Optionally, the covering is manufactured using additive manufacturing. Optionally, the covering is re-usable. The covering may be cleaned and re-used at a second building structure. This means that, after being used at a first building structure, the covering can be uninstalled from the at least one module, cleaned, and reinstalled in the at least one module for being re-used at the second building structure.


Optionally, the covering is stored in the rigid box, and the covering is rollable bidirectionally using at least one handle. Optionally, the covering is stored in the storage space of the rigid box. Beneficially, storing the covering in the rigid box saves space and allows the modular safety fencing system to be compact. Optionally, the covering is stored in a rolled manner, such than a first edge of the covering is packed at an innermost portion of a rolled-up form of the covering. The covering is rollable bidirectionally, so it can be rolled (i.e., unrolled, or rolled out) from the rigid box when required to be in use, and can be unrolled (i.e., rolled in) into the rigid box when not in use. Optionally, in this regard, the covering is rolled and/or unrolled in an upward manner or a downward manner. Alternatively, optionally, the covering is stored in a folded manner, akin to a plisse curtain, such that a first edge of the covering is packed at a lowermost portion of a folded form of the covering. The covering is foldable, so it can be pulled out (i.e., unfolded) from the rigid box when required to be in use, and can be pushed back (i.e., folded in) into the rigid box when not in use.


The term “handle” refers to a gripping means which allows a user (of the modular safety fencing system) to grip or hold the handle for rolling and unrolling the covering. Beneficially, the at least one handle may be employed to move components (for example, such as, the covering) of the modular safety fencing system. Examples of the at least one handle include, but are not limited to, a pull handle, a lever lock handle, a knob handle, a latch handle, a concealed handle, a foldable handle, and a hook handle. Optionally, the at least one handle is made up of a material including, but not limited to, cardboard, metal, plastic, resin, cement, glass, wood, thermoplastic, carbon fibres, and a combination thereof. Optionally, the at least one handle is manufactured using additive manufacturing. The at least one handle is coupled to the covering, for enabling rolling and unrolling of the covering. Optionally, the at least one handle is placed at one edge of the covering, for facilitating rolling movement of the covering. Optionally, the covering may be opened or closed by employing the at least one handle, such that when the covering is opened, the covering is in an unrolled form; and when the covering is closed, the covering is in a rolled form. Optionally, the at least one handle is facilitated with a locking mechanism which locks into a given position within the modular safety fencing system, to provide a given usage state of the covering.


In some implementations, the modular safety fencing system comprises a single module comprising a single rigid box and a single covering. In other implementations, the modular safety fencing system comprises a plurality of modules comprising a plurality of rigid boxes and a plurality of coverings. As an example, the modular safety fencing system may comprise a first module and a second module, the first module comprising a first rigid box and a first covering, the second module comprising a second rigid box and a second covering. Optionally, the plurality of modules are arranged in series with each other. The plurality of modules may be required to adapt the modular safety fencing system according to specifications of different building structures.


The term “telescopic frame” refers to a retractable tube having concentric tubular sections designed to slide into one another, such that the telescopic frame is stored in a compact form, and the concentric tubular sections are adjustable to provide a required height of the telescopic frame. The required height of the telescopic frame is equal to the required height of the modular safety fencing system. Optionally, the given telescopic frame is made up of a material including, but not limited to, metal, plastic, resin, cement, glass, wood, thermoplastic, carbon fibres, and a combination thereof. Optionally, the given telescopic frame is manufactured using additive manufacturing.


The at least two telescopic side frames are employed at sides of the modular safety fencing system. Optionally, the at least two telescopic side frames are attached to the at least one module, such that the at least two telescopic side frames are affixed on a top surface of the rigid box at sides of the rigid box. Optionally, the at least two telescopic side frames are employed at a left side and a right side of a given module. Alternatively, optionally, when the modular safety fencing system comprises the plurality of modules, the at least two telescopic side frames are employed at a left side of a leftmost module, a right side of a rightmost module, and at least one intermediate side of the plurality of modules. For example, when two modules are comprised in the modular safety fencing system, the at least two telescopic side frames may be employed at a left side of a left module, at a right side of a right module, and at an intermediate side shared between the left module and the right module.


The term “required height” of the modular safety fencing system refers to a height (or, distance) between a top edge of the rigid box and the top surface of the building structure, such that the modular safety fencing system is extendable between the top surface and the bottom surface of the building structure. Optionally, the required height depends on a height of the building structure.


The term “building structure” refers to an area of the building where construction is being executed. Examples of the building structure include, but are not limited to, a building, a room, a floor, a basement, a pool, a treehouse, and similar. The top surface of the building structure may be a highest surface of the building structure. For example, the top surface of the building structure may be a ceiling. The bottom surface of the building structure may be a lowest surface of the building structure. For example, the bottom surface of the building structure may be a floor.


A technical advantage of the at least two telescopic side frames is that the modular safety fencing system is extendable to any required height, depending on a distance between the top surface and the bottom surface of the building structure. Beneficially, the modular safety fencing system extending between the top surface and the bottom surface of the building structure provides a maximum amount of protection from the elements (for example, such as, rain, debris, dirt, and the like), since the modular safety fencing system creates a barrier between the building structure and an environment surrounding the building structure. Moreover, such an arrangement allows the modular safety fencing system to effectively conceal the building structure.


In an embodiment, the modular safety fencing system further comprises a plurality of first adaptive coverings associated with the at least two telescopic side frames, wherein the covering is removably attached to a given first adaptive covering using an attachment means. The plurality of first adaptive coverings refers to given coverings which are capable of being adapted with the given telescopic side frame. Optionally, a given first adaptive covering is implemented as a single-use covering. Optionally, the given first adaptive covering is attached over its associated telescopic side frame. The term “attachment means” refers to an equipment for attaching the given adaptive covering with the covering, such that the covering be beneficially removed (i.e., detached) from the given adaptive covering and be stored when not in use. Examples of the attachment means include, but are not limited to, a zipper, a hook and loop fastener, a button, a ribbon and loop fastener, a hook and pile fastener, a snap button, a clasp, a magnetic fastener, an adhesive fastener, and a touch fastener. Optionally, a single attachment means is employed for attaching the given adaptive covering with the covering. Alternatively, optionally, a plurality of attachment means are employed for attaching the given adaptive covering with the covering.


Optionally, a given telescopic side frame comprises at least two telescopic portions and at least one strap intercoupled in series with each other in an alternating manner. Alternatively, optionally, a given telescopic side frame comprises at least two telescopic portions. The term “telescopic portions” refers to the concentric tubular sections designed to slide into one another for compactness as explained above. It will be appreciated that a radius and a thickness of a given telescopic portion is predefined, such that the at least two telescopic portions are employed to slide and nest within each other, whilst also providing requisite strength to the given telescopic side frame in its extended form. The term “strap” refers to an elongated flap or ribbon employed to hold a given component in a given position. Optionally, the at least one strap is employed to hold the given telescopic portion at a required position with respect to another telescopic portion. Moreover, optionally, the at least one strap is employed to affix the given first adaptive covering with the given telescopic side frame. Optionally, the at least one strap is made up of a material including, but not limited to, cloth, plastic film, glass, fiberglass, linoleum, plastic sheeting, mesh fabric, and a combination thereof.


In another embodiment, the covering comprises a first portion, a first flap, and a second flap, the first portion being arranged in between the first flap and the second flap, and wherein a first side of the first flap and a first side of the second flap are attached to the first portion, a second side of the first flap is provided with a first attachment part and a second side of the second flap is provided with a second attachment part, the second sides of the first and second flaps being opposite to the first sides of the first and second flaps, respectively. Optionally, the first attachment part and the second attachment part collectively form an attachment arrangement. Optionally, the second sides of the first and second flaps are parallel to each other and to the first sides of the first and second flaps. For example, the covering may be rectangular and may be divided into three portions, such that the three portions are positioned linearly with respect to each other. In such an example, the first portion may be a central portion of the covering, the first flap may be a left-side portion of the covering, and the second flap may be a right-side portion of the covering. Herein, a leftmost side of the first portion (i.e., the left-side portion) may be provided with the first attachment part, and a rightmost side of the second portion (i.e., the right-side portion) may be provided with the second attachment part. Optionally, the covering comprising the first portion, the first flap, and the second flap is stored in the rigid box in a manner that the first flap and the second flap are folded against the first portion. When such a covering is rolled out for use, the first flap and the second flap are unfolded.


Optionally, the at least one module comprises a plurality of modules that are interconnectable with each other, wherein, when the modular safety fencing system is in use, coverings of adjacent modules are interconnected with each other via interlinking of their corresponding first and second attachment parts. Optionally, the plurality of modules are arranged in a linear manner. Alternatively, optionally, the plurality of modules are arranged in a pattern. Herein, the plurality of modules may be arranged in an L-shaped pattern, a U-shaped pattern, a Z-shaped pattern, a polygonal pattern, and the like. For example, when three modules are employed in the modular safety fencing system, a first attachment part of a leftmost side of a first module may interconnect with a second attachment part of a rightmost side of a second module that is arranged to the left of the first module; and a first attachment part of a leftmost side of the second module may interconnect with a second attachment part of a rightmost side of a third module that is arranged to the left of the second module. Beneficially, the coverings of the plurality of modules are interconnectable using the attachment arrangement to completely cover the space between the two side surfaces of the building structure without requiring the plurality of first adaptive coverings. Examples of the attachment arrangement include, but are not limited to, a zipper, a hook and loop fastener, a button, a ribbon and loop fastener, a hook and pile fastener, a snap button, a clasp, a magnetic fastener, an adhesive fastener, and a touch fastener. Correspondingly, examples of a given attachment part include, a male zipper part, a female zipper part, a hook part, a loop part, a button part, a buttonhole part, a ribbon part, a given snap-fit part, a temporary glue part, an adhesion part, a magnetic part, and the like. Such coverings with attachment parts effectively separate the building structure from the environment of the building structure, thereby providing complete protection of the building structure and safety of life. A technical advantage of the attachment parts is that the attachment parts enable the plurality of coverings to be connected with one another in series.


The term “top connector” refers to an element connecting to the top surface of the building structure. In an embodiment, the top connector is implemented as a top frame connecting the at least two telescopic side frames and contacting the top surface. In this regard, the top frame is a hollow or solid tube of material configured to provide support to the modular safety fencing system. The top frame may extend along the top surface of the building structure. In another embodiment, the top connector is implemented as at least one hook attached to an end of the covering that is to be in proximity of the top surface of the building structure when the modular safety fencing system is in use, and an attachment element in the top surface of the building structure, wherein the at least one hook removably engages with the attachment element. Optionally, the attachment element is implemented as an eye (i.e., ring-like structure) adapted to engage with the at least one hook. The top connector is fastened to (or optionally, contacts) the top surface of the building structure to provide support to the modular safety fencing system. When the top connector is implemented as the top frame, a length and/or a shape of the top frame changes depending on the arrangement of the at least one modules. In an example, the top frame may be linear when the at least one modules are arranged linearly to form a screen separating the building structure from the environment of the building structure. In another example, the top frame may be L-shaped when the at least one modules are L-shaped to separate the building structure from the environment of the building structure from two sides. In yet another example, the top frame may be U-shaped when the at least one modules are U-shaped to separate the building structure from the environment of the building structure from three sides. In yet another example, the top frame may be square-shaped when the at least one modules are square-shaped to separate the building structure from the environment of the building structure from four sides. Optionally, the top frame is implemented as at least one telescopic frame. Optionally, the top frame is removably attached with the at least two telescopic side frames using at least one fastening mechanism. Herein, a given fastening mechanism snugly attaches the top frame with the at least two telescopic side frames, such that the modular safety fencing system is structurally stable, and may be disassembled and stored for later use. In an embodiment, the top surface is a ceiling surface. Examples of the at least one fastening mechanism include, but are not limited to, a fastener, a screw, a nut and bolt, a metal plate having a nut and bolt arrangement, and an adhesive sticker.


The term “fastener” refers to a device which mechanically joins or affixes the at least one module to the bottom surface of the building structure for providing support to the modular safety fencing system in use. The fastener may be removed without damaging the at least one module and/or the bottom surface post use. Optionally, the at least one fastener is a hardware device. Examples of a given fastener include, but are not limited to, a screw, a nut and bolt, a metal plate having a nut and bolt arrangement, an adhesive sticker, a clasp, a clamp, a clip, a latch, a rivet, a peg and a nail. In an embodiment, the bottom surface is a floor surface.


It will be appreciated that when the modular safety fencing system is in use, protection from the elements (for example, such as, rain, debris, dirt, and the like) and safety from the construction material is to be provided in the building structure. In such a case, if the covering is closed (i.e., in the rolled form), there would be no protective screening between the building structure and the environment of the building structure, such that no protection and safety is provided. However, if the covering is extendable (for example, rolled out) to at least partially cover the space between the top surface and the bottom surface of the building structure (or in particular, the top edge of the rigid box and the top connector), the covering acts as a protective screening between the building structure and the environment of the building structure, providing both protection and safety. In some implementations, the covering partially covers the space between the top surface and the bottom surface of the building structure, whereas in other implementations, the covering fully covers the space between the top surface and the bottom surface of the building structure.


Optionally, the modular safety fencing system further comprises at least one adaptive telescopic frame and at least one second adaptive covering associated with the at least one adaptive telescopic frame, wherein the at least one adaptive telescopic frame is adjustable according to a required width of the modular safety fencing system for enabling the modular safety fencing system to extend between two side surfaces of the building structure. The at least one adaptive telescopic frame refers to telescopic frames which are capable of being adapted as a lengthwise extension of the modular safety fencing system. Optionally, the top frame connects a given adaptive telescopic frame with the top surface. Optionally, the given fastening mechanism is used to attach the top frame with the given adaptive telescopic frame, such that the modular safety fencing system remains structurally stable, and may be disassembled and stored for later use. The two side surfaces of the building structure refer to two upright surfaces (for example, such as, inner wall surfaces) on opposite ends of the building structure. Optionally, the two side surfaces are parallel to each other and are arranged to face each other. Alternatively, optionally, the two side surfaces are adjacent to each other, wherein the two side surfaces form an angle therebetween. Optionally, the modular safety fencing system extends due to the at least one adaptive telescopic frame, such that a wider area of the building structure is protected from the elements.


The term “required width” of the modular safety fencing system refers to a distance between the two side surfaces of the building structure, such that the modular safety fencing system is extendable between the two side surfaces. Optionally, the required width depends on a width of the building structure. The plurality of second adaptive coverings are coverings which are capable of being adapted with the given adaptive telescopic frame. Optionally, a given second adaptive covering is implemented as a single-use covering. Optionally, a given second adaptive covering is attached over its associated telescopic side frame. Beneficially, the at least one adaptive telescopic frame and the at least one second adaptive covering are utilised when the at least one module does not cover the distance between the two side surfaces of the building structure.


In an embodiment, the plurality of first adaptive coverings and/or the at least one second adaptive covering are stored in the rigid box. In this regard, the plurality of first adaptive coverings and/or the at least one second adaptive covering are stored in the storage space of the rigid box. When the plurality of modules are employed (and corresponding, a plurality of rigid boxes) in the modular safety fencing system, the plurality of first adaptive coverings and/or the at least one second adaptive covering are stored in at least one rigid box from amongst the plurality of rigid boxes. In another embodiment, the plurality of first adaptive coverings and/or the at least one second adaptive covering are not stored in the rigid box. In such a case, the plurality of first adaptive coverings and/or the at least one second adaptive covering could be stored in a storage unit, in a holding means provided external to the rigid box in the modular safety fencing system, or elsewhere. As an example, the holding means (for example, such as a storage caddy) may be detachably attachable to the rigid box, and the holding means may be dimensioned such that the plurality of first adaptive coverings and/or the at least one second adaptive covering are properly held by/stored in the holding means.


Optionally, the modular safety fencing system further comprises a rail system along the at least two telescopic side frames and a rolling means arranged inside the rigid box, wherein the rolling means, in operation, guides the covering to roll along the rail system. The term “rail system” refers to a system formed with rails and posts, such that the rail system provides a path along which the covering extends to cover and uncover the space between the top surface and the bottom surface of the building structure. Examples of the rail system include, but are not limited to, a telescopic rail system, a tubular rail system, a solid rail system, a cable rail system, and a bar rail system. Optionally, the rail system is implemented as a telescopic rail system. The term “rolling means” refers to equipment for rolling and/or unrolling the covering. The rolling means optionally comprises a plurality of rollers and a rolling rod, employed together to roll and/or unroll the covering. Optionally, in this regard, the covering is rolled about the plurality of rollers, and is rolled further onto the rolling rod, the plurality of rollers and the rolling rod being affixed within the rigid box whilst allowing the covering to move about the plurality of rollers and the rolling rod. The rolling rod may be a rod or a bar around which the covering can be rolled. Optionally, the rolling means comprises the plurality of rollers arranged in a zig-zag manner. In other words, the plurality or rollers are arranged in a cross-roller arrangement. Optionally, the rolling means is arranged in the storage space of the rigid box. Beneficially, the rolling means guides the covering to roll along the rail system, providing an ease of rolling and unrolling the covering.


Optionally, the modular safety fencing system further comprises at least one first railing, wherein the at least one first railing is employed to removably attach the modular safety fencing system to at least one of: an external elevator, a scaffolding. The at least one first railing may be provided with a given fastening mechanism to removably attach the modular safety fencing system to the at least one of: the external elevator, the scaffolding. Optionally, the at least one first railing acts as a fence around the building structure. Optionally, a given railing is made of a material including, but not limited to, metal, plastic, resin, cement, glass, wood, thermoplastic, carbon fibres, and a combination thereof. Optionally, the given railing is removably attached to the modular safety fencing system. Optionally, the given railing is prefabricated. The external elevator is a temporary elevator or hoist, used to transport goods (for example, construction materials) and personnel (for example, builders) within the building structure. Optionally, the external elevator is used to transport goods and personnel within different floors of the building structure. The scaffolding is a temporary elevated work surface, used to transport goods and personnel within the building structure. Optionally, the scaffolding may act as at least one of: a bridge, a staircase, an extension; based on a requirement at a given building structure. Beneficially, the at least one first railing is utilised for docking the at least one of: the external elevator, the scaffolding; outside the building structure, such that a seamless transportation of goods and personnel may be provided.


Optionally, the modular safety fencing system further comprises at least one second railing, wherein the at least one second railing is employed to removably attach the modular safety fencing system to at least one prefabricated component in the building structure. The at least one second railing may be provided with a given fastening mechanism to removably attach the modular safety fencing system (and specifically, any component thereof) to the at least one prefabricated component. The term “prefabricated component” refers to a component of the building structure, which is manufactured off-site and then transported to the building structure, to be installed therein. Examples of the at least one prefabricated component include, but are not limited to, a prefabricated door, prefabricated stairs, a prefabricated window wall, a prefabricated wall, a prefabricated window, a prefabricated floor panel, a prefabricated room component, a prefabricated false ceiling, and a prefabricated roof truss. Beneficially, use of the at least one prefabricated component reduces on-site construction time, such that the building structure may be constructed sooner as compared to when prefabricated components are not utilized.


Optionally, the modular safety fencing system further comprises at least one fastening means attached to a given module, wherein the at least one fastening means is employed to movably attach the given module to at least one of: at least one other module, a surface of the building structure. The at least one fastening means refers to a device which mechanically joins or affixes the given module to at least one of: the at least one other module, the surface of the building structure. Optionally, the at least one fastening means enables pivotable movement of the given module such that the given module can be arranged between two modules, one module and the surface of the building structure, or between two surfaces of the building structure. In such a case, the given module serves as a pivotable module. Examples of the at least one fastening means include, but are not limited to, a hinge, a roller arrangement, and a sliding bar arrangement. Beneficially, the at least one fastening means allow the given module to be pivoted, thereby forming a temporary opening to receive delivery of goods (for example, construction materials) from outside the building structure.


The present disclosure also relates to the method for using the modular safety fencing system as described above. Various embodiments and variants disclosed above, with respect to the aforementioned first aspect, apply mutatis mutandis to the method for using the modular safety fencing system.


Optionally, the method for using the modular safety fencing system is implemented at the building having the building structure. Alternatively, optionally, the method for using the modular safety fencing system is implemented away from the building having the building structure. The phrase “installing the modular safety fencing system” refers to arranging and/or positioning the modular safety fencing system and components thereof at the building structure in a required manner, such that the modular safety fencing system may be utilised.


Optionally, the step of installing the modular safety fencing system in the building structure comprises:

    • positioning the at least one module comprising the rigid box and the covering at the building structure, such that the rigid box is well-balanced on the bottom surface of the building structure;
    • adjusting the at least two telescopic side frames according to the required height of the modular safety fencing system for enabling the modular safety fencing system to extend between the top surface and the bottom surface of the building structure;
    • connecting the top connector with the modular safety fencing system, such that the top connector connects the modular safety fencing system to the top surface; and
    • employing the at least one fastener for securely fastening the at least one module to the bottom surface.


A technical advantage of installing the modular safety fencing system in the above manner is that the modular safety fencing system is stable, structurally strong, and well-balanced, such that all components therein are affixed in a required manner, preventing the modular safety fencing system from falling, or components thereof from malfunctioning. Moreover, a technical benefit of unrolling the covering in the correct manner (such as, at least partially) is that the covering protects the building structure from the elements (for example, such as, rain, debris, dirt, and the like) and provides safety of life.


Detailed Description of the Drawings

Referring to FIG. 1, illustrated is an architecture of a modular safety fencing system 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The modular safety fencing system 100 comprises at least one module 102 having a rigid box 104 and a covering 106, at least two telescopic side frames 108 and 110, a top connector 112 connecting the modular safety fencing system 100 and a top surface of a building structure, and at least one fastener 114 for fastening the at least one module 102 to a bottom surface of the building structure.



FIG. 2 is an exemplary schematic illustration of a modular safety fencing system 200, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The modular safety fencing system 200 comprises at least one module (depicted as modules 202 and 204), at least two telescopic side frames 206 (individually depicted as telescopic side frames 206A, 206B and 206C), a top connector 208, at least one fastener 210 and a plurality of first adaptive coverings 212 (individually depicted as first adaptive coverings 212A, 212B and 212C). The module 202 comprises a rigid box 214 and a covering 216, respectively. The module 204 comprises a rigid box 218 and a covering 220. The at least two telescopic side frames 206 are adjustable according to a required height of the modular safety fencing system 200 for enabling the modular safety fencing system 200 to extend between a top surface (not shown) and a bottom surface (not shown) of a building structure (not shown). The top connector 208 connects the modular safety fencing system 200 to the top surface. The at least one fastener 210 securely fastens the modules 202 and 204 to the bottom surface. The plurality of first adaptive coverings 212 are associated with the at least two telescopic side frames 206 such that the coverings 218 and 220 are removably attached to the plurality of first adaptive coverings 212 using attachment means 222. A given telescopic side frame (for example, such as the telescopic side frames 206A and 206C) comprises at least two telescopic portions (not shown) and at least one strap 224 intercoupled in series with each other in an alternating manner.



FIG. 3 is an exemplary schematic illustration of a modular safety fencing system 300, in accordance with another embodiment of the present disclosure. The modular safety fencing system 300 comprises at least one module (depicted as modules 302 and 304), at least two telescopic side frames 306 (individually depicted as telescopic side frames 306A, 306B and 306C), a top connector 308, at least one fastener 310, a plurality of first adaptive coverings 312 (individually depicted as first adaptive coverings 312A and 312B), at least one adaptive telescopic frame 314 and at least one second adaptive covering 316. The at least one module 302 comprises a rigid box 318 and a covering (not shown). The at least one module 304 comprises a rigid box 320 and a covering 322. The top connector 308 connects the modular safety fencing system 300 to a top surface (not shown) of a building structure (not shown). The at least one fastener 310 securely fastens the modules 302, 304 to a bottom surface (not shown) of the building structure. The plurality of first adaptive coverings 312 are associated with the at least two telescopic side frames 306 such that the covering 322 is removably attached to the first adaptive coverings 312A and 312B using attachment means 324. A given telescopic side frame (for example, such as the telescopic side frames 306A and 306C) comprises at least two telescopic portions (not shown) and at least one strap 326 intercoupled in series with each other in an alternating manner. The at least one second adaptive covering 316 is associated with the at least one adaptive telescopic frame 314. The at least one adaptive telescopic frame 314 is adjustable according to a required width of the modular safety fencing system 300 for enabling the modular safety fencing system 300 to extend between two side surfaces (not shown) of the building structure. The covering comprised in the at least one module 302 is stored in the rigid box 318. The covering 322 and the covering comprised in the at least one module 302 are rollable bidirectionally using at least one handle 328. The plurality of first adaptive coverings 312 and/or the at least one second adaptive covering 316 may also be stored in the rigid boxes 318 and 320.



FIG. 4 is an exemplary schematic illustration of a perspective view of a modular safety fencing system 400, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The modular safety fencing system 400 comprises at least one module 402 and at least two telescopic side frames 404. The at least one module 402 comprises a rigid box 406 and a covering 408. As shown, the covering 408 is rollable bidirectionally using at least one handle 410. The at least two telescopic side frames 404 are adjustable and enable the modular safety fencing system 400 to extend between a top surface (not shown) and a bottom surface (not shown) of a building structure (not shown).


Referring to FIG. 5, illustrated is an exemplary interior view of a rigid box 500, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The rigid box 500 stores a covering 502 of a modular safety fencing system (not shown). The covering 502 is rollable bidirectionally using at least one handle 504. The rigid box 500 comprises a rolling means 506 arranged inside the rigid box 500, wherein the rolling means 506, in operation, guides the covering 502 to roll along a rail system (not shown). The rolling means 506 comprises a plurality of rollers 508. As shown, the plurality of rollers 508 are arranged in a cross-roller arrangement (i.e., a zig-zag manner).


Referring to FIG. 6, illustrated is a covering 600, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The covering 600 comprises a first portion 602, a first flap 604, and a second flap 606. The first portion 602 is arranged in between the first flap 604 and the second flap 606. A first side 608 of the first flap 604 and a first side 610 of the second flap 606 are attached to the first portion 602. A second side 612 of the first flap 604 is provided with a first attachment part 614 and a second side 616 of the second flap 606 is provided with a second attachment part 618. The second sides 612 and 616 of the first and second flaps 604 and 606 are opposite to the first sides 608 and 610 of the first and second flaps 604 and 606, respectively.


Referring to FIG. 7, illustrated is a flowchart depicting steps of a method for using a modular safety fencing system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. At step 702, the modular safety fencing system is installed in a building structure. At step 704, a covering is unrolled to at least partially cover a space between a top surface and a bottom surface of the building structure.


The steps 702 and 704 are only illustrative and other alternatives can also be provided where one or more steps are added, one or more steps are removed, or one or more steps are provided in a different sequence without departing from the scope of the claims herein.


Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.

Claims
  • 1. A modular safety fencing system comprising: at least one module comprising a rigid box and a covering; at least two telescopic side frames that are adjustable according to a required height of the modular safety fencing system for enabling the modular safety fencing system to extend between a top surface and a bottom surface of a building structure;a top connector for connecting the modular safety fencing system to the top surface; andat least one fastener for securely fastening the at least one module to the bottom surface,
  • 2. The modular safety fencing system according to claim 1, further comprising a plurality of first adaptive coverings associated with the at least two telescopic side frames, wherein the covering is removably attached to a given first adaptive covering using an attachment means.
  • 3. The modular safety fencing system according to claim 1, wherein the covering comprises a first portion, a first flap, and a second flap, the first portion being arranged in between the first flap and the second flap, and wherein a first side of the first flap and a first side of the second flap are attached to the first portion, a second side of the first flap is provided with a first attachment part and a second side of the second flap is provided with a second attachment part, the second sides of the first and second flaps being opposite to the first sides of the first and second flaps, respectively.
  • 4. The modular safety fencing system according to claim 3, wherein the at least one module comprises a plurality of modules that are interconnectable with each other, wherein, when the modular safety fencing system is in use, coverings of adjacent modules are interconnected with each other via interlinking of their corresponding first and second attachment parts.
  • 5. The modular safety fencing system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one adaptive telescopic frame and at least one second adaptive covering associated with the at least one adaptive telescopic frame, wherein the at least one adaptive telescopic frame is adjustable according to a required width of the modular safety fencing system for enabling the modular safety fencing system to extend between two side surfaces of the building structure.
  • 6. The modular safety fencing system according to claim 1, wherein the covering is stored in the rigid box, and the covering is rollable bidirectionally using at least one handle
  • 7. The modular safety fencing system according to claim 1, further comprising a rail system along the at least two telescopic side frames and a rolling means arranged inside the rigid box, wherein the rolling means, in operation, guides the covering to roll along the rail system.
  • 8. The modular safety fencing system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one first railing, wherein the at least one first railing is employed to removably attach the modular safety fencing system to at least one of: an external elevator, a scaffolding.
  • 9. The modular safety fencing system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one second railing, wherein the at least one second railing is employed to removably attach the modular safety fencing system to at least one prefabricated component in the building structure.
  • 10. The modular safety fencing system according to claim 1, further comprising at least one fastening means attached to a given module, wherein the at least one fastening means is employed to movably attach the given module to at least one of: at least one other module, a surface of the building structure.
  • 11. The method for using a modular safety fencing system of claim 1, the method comprising: installing the modular safety fencing system in a building structure; and unrolling a covering to at least partially cover a space between a top surface and a bottom surface of the building structure.
Priority Claims (1)
Number Date Country Kind
2130222-9 Aug 2021 SE national
PCT Information
Filing Document Filing Date Country Kind
PCT/IB2022/057743 8/18/2022 WO