SCAFFOLDING SYSTEM

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to scaffolding systems.

BACKGROUND

Scaffolding systems are temporary structures that are used to provide support and working surfaces to work crews during the construction, demolition, or repair of a structure such as a building or a bridge. Scaffolding systems often allow workers to access portions of structures that would otherwise be out of reach (for example, due to their height). In addition to providing work crews with conveniently positioned work surfaces and structure access points, scaffolding systems also provide protection against dangers such as falling objects to people who may be moving near a construction or demolition site.

Known scaffolding systems are typically designed for a specific job type (e.g., construction or demolition, but not both) or a specific structure type (e.g., a specific style of building). In short, known scaffolding systems often lack the flexibility to be adapted for a wide variety of use cases. Accordingly, there is need for a scaffolding system that can be easily adjusted or modified for use in a diverse assortment of jobs.

SUMMARY

Described is a customizable scaffolding system that includes a number of adjustable and modifiable components. These adjustable components can allow the scaffolding systems to be easily adapted for demolition, construction, or maintenance of structures ranging from office buildings to bridges. The customizable portions of the scaffolding system may include working platforms that can be fully enclosed from the time that the scaffolding system is erected to the time that the scaffolding system is demolished to protect workers and the public from injury. The working platforms can be quickly adjusted to a length or a width that best suits a particular job type. In addition to being adjustable in size, the working platforms may also be adjustable in height, even after they have been installed. The height adjustment system for the working platforms may be manually-operable so that workers can quickly change the heights of the working platforms by hand without needing to rely on additional machinery. An extendable wall can be included on an outer side of the scaffolding system to protect members of the public passing nearby from construction debris (including tools and noise), to provide support for sound blankets or solid barriers for containment of construction activities and noise, and to provide edge protection for the workers on the platform. The extendable wall may also shield workers on the working platforms from high winds and to shield the public from dust and noise. The length of the extendable wall may be easily adjustable after installation as necessary to compensate for changes in the length of the working platforms. The versatility of the disclosed scaffolding system may allow the system to be easily and efficiently setup, modified, and disassembled and may allow the same system to be adapted for use in a variety of scenarios may allow the same system to be adapted for use in a variety of scenarios.

A first embodiment of a scaffolding system may comprise a plurality of tower extensions, one or more fixing members coupled to the plurality of tower extensions, a first platform and a second platform adjustably connected to the plurality of tower extensions, and an extendable wall connected to an outer edge of the first platform and an outer edge of the second platform that is directly above the outer edge of the first platform. The first platform may be positioned below the second platform and separation distance between the first platform and the second platform may be fixed by the one or more fixing members. One or more dimensions of the first platform and one or more dimensions of the second platform may adjustable. A position of the first and second platforms along the plurality of tower extensions may be manually adjustable. A length of the wall that is parallel to the outer edges of the first and second platforms may be adjustable.

In some examples of the first embodiment of the scaffolding system, the plurality of tower extensions comprise a first tower extension and a second tower extension. A first side edge of the first platform and a first side edge of the second platform may be adjustably connected to the first tower extension. A second side edge of the first platform and a second side edge of the second platform may be adjustably connected to the second tower extension.

In some examples of the first embodiment of the scaffolding system, each tower extension comprises a plurality of holes that are equally spaced along the height of the tower extension and configured to receive fasteners to anchor the first platform and the second platform to the tower extension when the position of the first and second platforms along the plurality of tower extensions is not being adjusted.

In some examples of the first embodiment of the scaffolding system, a lateral distance between the first tower extension and the second tower extension is greater than or equal to 5 feet and less than or equal to 10 feet.

In some examples of the first embodiment of the scaffolding system, a height of each tower extension of the plurality of tower extensions is greater than or equal to 4 feet and less than or equal to 15 feet.

In some examples of the first embodiment of the scaffolding system, each tower extension of the plurality of tower extensions comprises two parallel bars coupled to each other by a plurality of rungs, wherein each rung of the plurality of rungs forms a 90° angle with the two parallel bars.

In some examples of the first embodiment of the scaffolding system, the plurality of rungs are equally spaced along the two parallel bars, and wherein a vertical spacing between adjacent rungs is greater than or equal to 6 inches and less than or equal to 12 inches.

In some examples of the first embodiment of the scaffolding system, a deck portion of the first platform and a deck portion of the second platform are configured to be removable.

In some examples of the first embodiment of the scaffolding system, a side edge of the first platform and a side edge of the second platform are configured to receive timber in order to increase a length of the first platform in a first dimension of the one or more dimensions of the first platform or to increase a length of a first dimension of the one or more dimensions of the second platform.

In some examples, the first embodiment of the scaffolding system comprises a plurality of arms connected to the plurality of tower extensions, and wherein each arm of the plurality of arms is configured to connect to a structure, wherein an inclination of each arm of the plurality of arms with respect to the structure is configured to be adjustable.

In some examples of the first embodiment of the scaffolding system, the first and second platforms are coupled to one or more ropes, wherein the positions of the first and second platforms along the plurality of tower extensions are configured to be manually adjusted using a winch configured to control the one or more ropes.

In some examples of the first embodiment of the scaffolding system, the extendable wall comprises a plurality of sliding panels configured to at least partially overlap.

In some examples, the first embodiment of the scaffolding system comprises one or more side walls connected to a side edge of the first platform or a side edge of the second platform

A method for adjusting a scaffolding system may comprise adjustably connecting a first platform and a second platform to a plurality of tower extensions such that the first platform is positioned below the second platform, connecting a plurality fixing members to the first platform, the second platform, and the plurality of tower extensions to fix a separation distance between the first platform and the second platform, manually adjusting a position of a first platform and a position of a second platform along a plurality of tower extensions, adjusting one or more dimensions of the first platform and one or more dimensions of the second platform, connecting an extendable wall to an outer edge of the first platform and an outer edge of the second platform that is directly above the outer edge of the first platform, and adjusting a length of the extendable wall that is parallel to the outer edges of the first and second platforms based on the adjustments to the one or more dimensions of the first platform and the second platform.

In some embodiments, the method comprises connecting a first side wall to a side edge of the first platform and a second side wall to a side edge of the second platform.

In some embodiments of the method, the separation distance between the first platform and the second platform is greater than or equal to 5 feet and less than or equal to 10 feet.

In some embodiments of the method, manually adjusting the position of the first platform and the second platform along the plurality of tower extensions comprises winding or unwinding, using a winch, a plurality of ropes coupled to the first and second platforms.

In some embodiments of the method, adjusting a first dimension of the one or more dimensions of the first platform or a first dimension of the one or more dimensions of the second platform comprises attaching timber to a side edge of the first platform or a side edge of the second platform in order to increase a length of the first platform in the first dimension or to increase a length of the second platform in the first dimension.

In some embodiments, the method comprises connecting a first end of an arm configured to couple to a structure to the plurality of tower extensions, adjusting an inclination of the arm of the plurality of arms relative to the structure, and connecting a second end of the arm to the structure.

A second embodiment of a scaffolding system may comprise a plurality of tower extensions, one or more fixing members coupled to the plurality of tower extensions, a first platform and a second platform adjustably connected to the plurality of tower extensions, and an extendable wall connected to an outer edge of the first platform and an outer edge of the second platform that is directly above the outer edge of the first platform. The first platform may be positioned below the second platform and a separation distance between the first platform and the second platform is fixed by the one or more fixing members. One or more dimensions of the first platform and one or more dimensions of the second platform may be adjustable. A length of the wall that is parallel to the outer edges of the first and second platforms may be adjustable. A plurality of ropes may be coupled to the first platform and the second platform. The scaffolding system may include a winch configured to wind and unwind the plurality of ropes. The winch may be configured to be operated by hand. When the winch is operated, the positions of the first platform and the second platform along the plurality of tower extensions may be adjusted.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The following figures show various scaffolding systems and associated components of scaffolding systems. The scaffolding systems and scaffolding system components shown in the figures may have any one or more of the characteristics described herein.

FIG. 1 shows a scaffolding system.

FIG. 2A shows an exemplary tower extension.

FIG. 2B shows a close-up view of a portion of a tower extension.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of an exemplary moment frame.

FIG. 4 shows a side view of a height adjustment system for a pair of platforms.

FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of an exemplary tie beam and a plurality of exemplary tie arms.

FIG. 5B shows a front view of a connection between a circular end plate and a tie beam.

FIG. 5C shows a side view of an exemplary tie arm.

FIG. 6A shows exemplary panels of an extendable wall.

FIG. 6B shows a perspective view of an extendable wall connected to a side wall.

FIG. 6C shows a top view of an extendable wall connected to a side wall.

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary method for installing and adjusting components of the scaffolding system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As discussed above, there is need for scaffolding systems that can be easily adjusted or modified for use in a wide variety of jobs. In particular, there is need for modifiable scaffolding systems that can fully enclose a job site from the time of the system are erected to the time of the system are dismantled at the conclusion of a job and that can be adapted for use on an assortment of structure types (e.g., different styles of buildings) and job types (e.g., demolition, construction, etc.).

Described is a customizable scaffolding system comprising a number of adjustable components that allow the scaffolding system to be adapted for use in a large number of different jobs. In addition to allowing the scaffolding system to be employed for an assortment of job types, the adjustable components may facilitate efficient assembly and disassembly of the scaffolding system. Furthermore, the adjustable components may enable workers to modify characteristics (e.g., the areas or heights of the working platforms or the extent or composition of the platform enclosure) of the scaffolding system as necessary over the course of a job without requiring the use of heavy machinery or the rebuilding of significant portions of the scaffolding system.

The scaffolding system may be divided into numerous independent sections, each of which may include a plurality of working platforms. Several characteristics of the working platforms may be configured to be customized by workers. The dimensions of the working platforms, for example, may be adjustable, which may allow the scaffolding system to be installed around job sites with widely varied layouts. For instance, a front edge of each platform may include brackets that can be extended or retracted as necessary to avoid façade features such as cornices on a masonry building. Extending the side edges of the platforms can allow the scaffolding system to be centered on and affixed to the most stable features of the adjacent structure.

The customizability of the dimensions of the working platforms may also allow workers to increase their available working space as needed. During any given job, characteristics of the structure being worked on may change, and workers may need to adjust the sizes of the working platforms to increase or decrease the amount of working space provided by the platforms. Additionally, different job types may require different numbers of workers or different types of tools; as a result, working platform size requirements may differ significantly between, for example, a construction job for a bridge and a demolition job for a building. The adjustable working platforms described herein may, therefore, allow the same system to be adapted for use in a broad assortment of scenarios.

Adjustments to the lengths of the working platforms can be made by attaching timber or metal structural members to one or more edges of the working platforms. In addition, one edge of each working platform may include several brackets for supporting wood or metal scaffold boards without the use of fasteners. Adjustments to the widths of the working platforms can be made by adding or removing timber or metal boards from the brackets. The brackets can be extended or collapsed as necessary, allowing workers to make significant modifications to the widths of the working platforms while also ensuring that the brackets will not unnecessarily hinder the performance or safety of the scaffolding system.

Along with the adjustable working platforms, the scaffolding system can include a height adjustment mechanism for controlling the heights of the working platforms after the working platforms have been constructed. The heights of platforms that make up a given section of the scaffolding system may be controlled independently of the heights of platforms in other sections of the scaffolding system. The height adjustment mechanism for the working platforms can be operated by hand, allowing workers to raise and lower the working platforms without relying on additional machinery that could increase both the cost and complexity of setting up and using the scaffolding system. The height adjustment mechanism may be a set of pulleys connected to wire ropes that, in turn, are connected to the working platforms. Adjustments to the heights of the working platforms can be made using a manual winch that is mounted to the platform and can adjust the length of the ropes between the platforms and the pulleys mounted higher on the towers supporting the platforms. The working platforms can include removable sections that, when removed, allow the platforms to travel along the height of the scaffolding system without interfering with other components of the scaffolding system. As a result, the platforms can be raised and lowered after their initial installation without requiring significant portions of the scaffolding system to be dismantled and subsequently reinstalled. This may save workers appreciable amounts of time which, as a consequence, may save the workers' clients significant amounts of money.

In addition to the adjustable working platforms and the height adjustment mechanism, the adjustable components of the scaffolding system can include extendable walls that can be installed around a working platform in order to contain the job site. The extendable walls may protect the adjacent public, limit the impact of construction activities and noise, provide edge protection for workers on the platform, and provide workers with protection against wind. Workers may adjust the extents of the wall whenever they increase the length of an adjustable platform (e.g., by attaching timber to an edge of the platform, as described above) in order to maintain site containment. The extendable wall may be installed along the outer edges of the working platforms and may include a number of upright panels that can slide past one another. Adjustments to the length of the extendable wall may be made by pushing the panels inward toward one another or pulling the panels outward away from one another. This may allow workers to increase the extents of the wall as necessary to compensate for changes in the length of the working platforms in order to maintain a fully-contained job site.

Overall, the adjustable components of the disclosed scaffolding system substantially increase the versatility and adaptability of the system. The adjustable components of the scaffolding system may allow the scaffolding system to be employed in a variety of scenarios and to be modified as needed over the course of a job to provide workers with an optimized working area. Furthermore, the adjustable components may facilitate efficient setup, modification, and disassembly of the scaffolding system which, in turn, may increase the rate at which a job can be completed. The customizability of the scaffolding system may result in reduced costs, increased safety, and increased work efficiency for work crews which, in turn, may lower costs for the clients who are funding the jobs.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary scaffolding system 100. Scaffolding system 100 may be configured to be highly adaptable. In particular, various components and properties of scaffolding system 100 may be adjustable or modifiable, allowing scaffolding system 100 to be adapted for use on a variety of construction, maintenance, and demolition projects for various structure types.

As shown, scaffolding system 100 may comprise a pair of platforms 106-108 supported by a plurality of tower extensions 102. Upper platform 108 may be installed at a fixed distance above lower platform 106. The lengths of platforms 106 and 108 in one or more dimensions may be customized by users. A manual height adjustment system 122 may allow users to raise and lower platforms 106 and 108.

Scaffolding system 100 may configured to be mechanically joined to a structure that is being constructed, demolished, or repaired by one or more tie arms 112 supported by tie beams 114. The length of tie arms 112 may be adjustable. Tie beams 114 may be configured to rotate so that the inclination of tie arms 112 can be adjusted to a suitable angle for joining with the structure. A plurality of holes provided in the tie beam 114 may allow the horizontal inclination of the tie arms to be adjusted. The combination of adjustable features in the tie arms and tie beams may provide the flexibility to safely anchor the tower extensions into a wide variety of building geometries.

In addition to the modifiable features described above, system 100 may include an extendable wall 110 for containing the job site and working platforms 106 and 108 and for providing workers with protection against wind while they are standing on platforms 106 or 108. The length of extendable wall 110 may be adjustable to compensate for modifications to the lengths of platforms 106 and 108.

Tower Extensions

As mentioned above, scaffolding system 100 may comprise a plurality of tower extensions 102. The plurality of tower extensions 102 may be upright, ladder-like structures positioned on a first side 134 and a second side 136 of scaffolding system 100. Tower extensions 102 may be configured to be connected to additional sets of tower extensions in order to increase the height of scaffolding system 100.

Optionally, scaffolding system 100 may comprise at least 2, at least 4, at least 6, at least 8, at least 10, at least 12, at least 14, at least 16, at least 18, or at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, or at least 100 tower extensions 102. Alternatively, scaffolding system 100 may comprise fewer than 4, fewer than 6, fewer than 8, fewer than 10, fewer than 12, fewer than 14, fewer than 16, fewer than 18, or fewer than 20, fewer than 30, fewer than 40, fewer than 50, fewer than 60, fewer than 70, fewer than 80, fewer than 90, or fewer than 100 tower extensions 102. In some embodiments, scaffolding system 100 includes between 2-10, 2-20, 2-30, 2-40, 2-50, 2-60, 2-70, 2-80, 2-90, or 2-100 tower extensions 102.

In some examples, a lateral separation distance 132 between tower extensions positioned on the first side 134 of scaffolding system 100 and tower extensions positioned on the second side 136 of scaffolding system 100 can be greater than or equal to 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, or 30 feet. In other examples, a lateral separation distance 132 between tower extensions positioned on a first side of scaffolding system 100 and tower extensions positioned on a second side of scaffolding system 100 can be less than or equal to 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, or 30 feet. Optionally, a lateral separation distance 132 between tower extensions positioned on a first side of scaffolding system 100 and tower extensions positioned on a second side of scaffolding system 100 may be between 5-7 feet, 7-9 feet, 9-11 feet, 11-13 feet, 13-15 feet, 2-10 feet, 2-20 feet, or 2-30 feet.

The plurality of tower extensions 102 may be laterally braced by one or more lateral braces 118. Optionally, the one or more lateral braces 118 may comprise cross braces or horizontal braces. Lateral braces 118 may be steel pipes with flattened ends. One end of the brace may be mechanically coupled to a first tower extension positioned on the first side 134 of scaffolding system 100 while the other end of the lateral brace may be mechanically coupled to a second tower extension positioned on the second side 136 of scaffolding system 100. Lateral braces 118 may be connected to tower extensions 102 along the height of scaffolding system 100 on both an inner side 138 of scaffolding system 100 and an outer side 140 of scaffolding system 100 in order to ensure the stability of scaffolding system 100.

An exemplary tower extension 102 is shown in FIG. 2A. Tower extension 102 includes a pair of upright, parallel legs 202 that are connected by a plurality of rungs 204. Each of the plurality of rungs 204 may form a right (90°) angle with each of the tower extension legs 202.

Tower extension legs 202 and rungs 204 may be metal tubes (e.g., steel tubes). The tubes may be configured to bear a predetermined load. Optionally, the tubes may have walls that are at least 1/16, ⅛, 3/16, ¼, 5/16, ⅜, 7/16, ½, 9/16, ⅝, 11/16, ¾, 13/16, ⅞, or 1 inch thick.

In some examples, the height 214 of tower extension 102 may be greater than or equal to 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet, 14 feet, 15 feet, or 20 feet. Alternatively, the height 214 of tower extension 102 may be less than or equal to 3 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet, 14 feet, 15 feet, or 20 feet. Optionally, the height of tower extension 102 may be between 5-7 feet, between 7-9 feet, between 9-11 feet, between 11-13 feet, between 13-15 feet, between 4-15 feet, or between 3-20 feet.

Tower extension 102 may comprise at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 11, at least 12, at least 13, at least 14, at least 15, at least 16, at least 17, at least 18, at least 19, or at least 20 rungs 204. Alternatively, tower extension 102 may comprise fewer than 4, fewer than 5, fewer than 6, fewer than 7, fewer than 8, fewer than 9, fewer than 10, fewer than 11, fewer than 12, fewer than 13, fewer than 14, fewer than 15, fewer than 16, fewer than 17, fewer than 18, fewer than 19, or fewer than 20 rungs 204. In some embodiments, tower extension 102 includes between 4-10, 4-15, 4-20, 4-25, or 4-30 rungs 204.

In one or more examples, a separation distance 216 between adjacent rungs 204 may be greater than or equal to 3 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, 12 inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, or 15 inches. Optionally, a separation distance 216 between adjacent rungs 204 may be less than or equal to 3 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 7 inches, 8 inches, 9 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, 12 inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, or 15 inches. In some examples, a separation distance 216 between adjacent rungs 204 is between 5-7 inches, 7-9 inches, 9-11 inches, 11-13 inches, 13-15 inches, 3-12 inches, or 3-24 inches.

The length 218 of each rung 204 may be greater than or equal to 6 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, 12 inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches 19 inches, or 20 inches. Alternatively, the length 218 of each rung 204 may be less than or equal to 6 inches, 10 inches, 11 inches, 12 inches, 13 inches, 14 inches, 15 inches, 16 inches, 17 inches, 18 inches 19 inches, or 20 inches. Optionally, the length 218 of each rung 204 may be between 6-12 inches, 6-24 inches, 10-12 inches, 12-14 inches, 14-16 inches, 16-18 inches, or 18-20 inches.

Tower extension 102 may comprise a plurality of lateral brace connectors 206 configured to mechanically couple to one or more lateral braces (e.g., lateral braces 118 of scaffolding system 100 shown in FIG. 1) that provide lateral support to the tower extensions during use. The lateral brace connectors 206 may be studs that are welded to tower extension legs 202.

In some examples, tower extension legs 202 may comprise a plurality of holes 208. The plurality of holes 208 may be configured to receive fasteners that mechanically join the scaffold platforms (e.g., platforms 106 and 108 of scaffolding system 100) to tower extension 102. Optionally, the fasteners may comprise one or more pins, one or more bolts, or one or more screws.

Tower extensions such as tower extension 102 may be configured to be stackable so that the height of the scaffolding system can be increased. To facilitate stacking, tower extension 102 may comprise a pair of connectors 212 disposed on one end of tower extension legs 202. On the opposite end of tower extension legs 202, tower extension 102 may comprise a pair of connector housings 210. A second tower extension may be stacked on top of tower extension 102 by inserting connectors 212 into the connector housings of the second tower extension. Likewise, tower extension 102 may be stacked on top of a third tower extension by inserting the connectors of the third tower extension into connector housings 210. Optionally, connectors 212 may be shoulder bolts, spigots, or pegs.

FIG. 2B shows a close-up view of tower extension 102. As shown, each of the plurality of rungs 204 may comprise a plurality of holes 220. The plurality of holes 220 may be configured to receive fasteners that mechanically join a tie beam (e.g., tie beam 114 of scaffolding system 100 shown in FIG. 1) to tower extension 102.

Platforms

As previously discussed, scaffolding system 100 may comprise a pair of platforms 106 and 108. Lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may comprise working surfaces configured to support workers during a construction, demolition, or maintenance project for which scaffolding system 100 is being used. In some embodiments, lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may provide overhead protection to people walking below scaffolding system 100 while a construction, demolition, or maintenance project is ongoing. Tower extensions 102 may support lower platform 106 and upper platform 108.

When scaffolding system 100 is being constructed, lower platform 106 may be installed first, followed by upper platform 108. The separation distance 142 between lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be fixed at the time of installation. A plurality of fixing members 104 may be inserted between lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 in order to fix the separation distance between lower platform 106 and upper platform 108. In some examples, the plurality of fixing members 104 may be angle beams.

In some examples, the separation distance 142 between lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be greater than or equal to 6 feet. 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet, 14 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, 25 feet, or 30 feet. Alternatively, the separation distance 142 between lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be less than or equal to 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet, 14 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, 25 feet, 30 feet, or 35 feet. Optionally, the separation distance 142 between lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be between 6-8 feet, between 6-10 feet, between 6-20 feet, between 6-30 feet, between 8-10 feet, between 10-12 feet, or between 12-15 feet.

In one or more examples, the lengths lower platform 106 and the length of upper platform 108 may be adjustable. Edges of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 on the first side 134 and on the second side 136 of scaffolding system 100 may be adjusted by shortening or lengthening the extension beams 120 supporting the deck. The extension beams may be structural members of a variety of materials and constructions. Optionally, the extension beams 120 may be as wood members (e.g., 2×4beams, 4×8beams, etc.) cut to size, nested or telescoping metal tubes, or sliding metal tracks.

One or more of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may have a base length (i.e., minimum length prior to extension on either side) of greater than or equal to 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet, 14 feet, or 15 feet. Alternatively, one or more of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may have a base length of less than or equal to 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet, 14 feet, or 15 feet. Optionally, the length of one or more of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be extended (e.g., by adding extension beams 120 of an appropriate length) by at least 1 foot, at least 2 feet, at least 3 feet, at least 4 feet, at least 5 feet, at least 6 feet, at least 7 feet, at least 8 feet, at least 9 feet, or at least 10 feet over its base length.

Scaffolding system 100 may comprise one or more moment frames 124 that at least partially support extension beams 120 on lower platform 106 and upper platform 108. The one or more moment frames 124 may be positioned on the outer side(s) of one or more of the plurality of tower extensions 102. Each moment frame 124 may comprise an upright metal beam with metal sleeves attached at either end. The metal sleeves may be configured to receive one or more extension beams 120 for lower platform 106 and upper platform 108. Extension beams 120 may provide support for length extensions to lower platform 106 and upper platform 108.

FIG. 3 shows a side view of an exemplary moment frame 124. As shown, moment frame 124 may comprise an upright beam 302. Beam 302 may be an aluminum beam. A first sleeve 304 may be affixed to a first end of beam 302 and a second sleeve 306 may be affixed to a second end of beam 302. In some examples, first sleeve 304 and second sleeve 306 may comprise steel (e.g., galvanized steel). First sleeve 304 may be configured to receive one or more extension beams for extending the length of a first platform of a scaffolding system (e.g., upper platform 108 of scaffolding system 100 shown in FIG. 1) and second sleeve 306 may be configured to receive one or more extension beams for extending the length of a second platform that is positioned below the first platform (e.g., lower platform 106 of scaffolding system 100 shown in FIG. 1).

Along with the lengths, the widths of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be adjustable. Lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may comprise one or more brackets 128. Brackets 128 may be attached to the edges of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 that are on the inner side 138 of scaffolding system 100 (i.e., the side of scaffolding system 100 that is closest the structure being demolished, constructed, or repaired). The one or more brackets 128 attached to each platform may be configured to receive one or more planks 126. Optionally, the one or more planks 126 may be wooden or metal scaffolding planks. In some examples, the one or more brackets 128 may be extendable and collapsible. If extensions to the width of lower platform 106 or upper platform 108 are not necessary, brackets 128 may be collapsed or removed to allow the distance between scaffolding system 100 and the structure being demolished, constructed, or repaired to be minimized.

One or more of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may have a base width (i.e., minimum width prior to extension) of greater than or equal to 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, or 10 feet. Alternatively, one or more of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may have a base width of less than or equal 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, or 10 feet. Optionally, the width of one or more of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be extended (e.g., by placing an appropriate number of planks 126 atop brackets 128) by at least 5 inches, at least 8 inches, at least 1 foot, at least 2 feet, at least 3 feet, at least 4 feet, or at least 5 feet over its base width. In one or more examples, the width of one or more of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be extended by about 5 inches, about 10 inches, about 15 inches, about 20 inches, about 25 inches, about 30 inches, or about 45 inches.

Lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be adjustably connected to the plurality of tower extensions 102, allowing the height of the pair of platforms to be adjusted as needed over the course of a construction, demolition, or maintenance project. In some examples, workers may adjust the height of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 by hand (e.g., using a manual winch and a system of pulleys connected to the platforms).

FIG. 4 shows a side view of an exemplary height adjustment system for platforms 106 and 108. Lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be positioned atop a lower carriage 404 and an upper carriage 406, respectively. Fixing members 104 may mechanically couple lower carriage 404 to upper carriage 406, thereby fixing the separation distance between lower platform 106 and upper platform 108. A tower extension 102 may be positioned between the outer edges of carriages 404-406 and the outer edges of platforms 106-108. Lower carriage 404 and upper carriage 406 may comprise a plurality of rolling members 410 (e.g., wheels or rollers) configured to travel along an outer face of tower extension 102.

A plurality of ropes 412 may be connected to lower carriage 404 and upper carriage 406. When the plurality of ropes 412 are pulled—e.g., by a worker using a pulley or winch and sheave system—lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be raised or lowered along tower extension 102. Due to their respective attachments to fixing members 104, lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may travel up and down tower extension 102 as a single unit.

After the pair of platforms 106-108 has been adjusted to a desired position along tower extension 102, each of the pair of platforms 106-108 may be anchored to tower extension 102 using one or more fasteners. As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, tower extension 102 may comprise a plurality of holes configured to receive fasteners to mechanically join the platforms to the tower extension 102. Once platforms 106 and 108 have been anchored to tower extension 102 (as well as to any other tower extensions to which platforms 106 and 108 may need to be coupled), platforms 106 and 108 may be capable of bearing loads higher than those that can be supported by existing scaffolding systems, for example loads of up to 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 190, 200, 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, 290, or 300 lbs/ft².

One or more components of the scaffolding system platforms may be configured to allow for efficient adjustments of the heights of the platforms along the tower extensions. As shown in FIG. 1, lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may each comprise a removable stage 130. Removable stages 130 may be positioned on an inner side 138 of platforms 106 and 108. Optionally, removable stages 130 may be made of a lightweight material (e.g., aluminum) that is sturdy enough to support workers but light enough that removable stages 130 may be easily removed by one or more workers if the heights of platforms 106 and 108 require adjustment. The gaps in platforms 106 and 108 that remain after removable stages 130 are removed may provide space sufficient to accommodate tie arms 112. In other words, when removable stages 130 are removed, platforms 106 and 108 may move around tie arms 112 while their positions along tower extensions 102 are adjusted. This may eliminate the need to detach and reattach tie arms 112 to the structure being demolished, constructed, or repaired whenever the heights of platforms 106 and 108 require adjustment. Similarly, the one or more planks 126 that may be used to increase the width of lower platform 106 and upper platform 108 may be configured to be easily installed and removed as needed by one or more workers.

Tie Beams and Tie Arms

As mentioned previously, the scaffolding system may comprise one or more tie arms supported by tie beams and configured to be mechanically joined to a structure that is being constructed, demolished, or repaired. As shown in FIG. 1, tie beams 114 may be positioned between the plurality of tower extensions 102. Each tie beam 114 may be installed by mechanically coupling each end of the beam to a rung on a tower extension (see, e.g., the plurality of holes 220 in rungs 204 of tower extension 102 shown in FIG. 2B, which may be configured to receive fasteners that mechanically join a tie beam to the tower extension). Optionally, a plurality of tie arms 112 may be connected to each tie beam 114. Tie arms 112 may comprise a plurality of tie shoes 116 configured to be mechanically joined to the structure by one or more fasteners.

FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of tie beam 114 and the attached tie arms 112. Tie beam 114 may be a wide flange beam. Optionally, tie beam 114 may be an aluminum beam. Tie arms 112 may be steel pipes. Tie arms 112 may comprise tie shoes 116 that are configured to couple tie beam 114 to a structure being constructed, demolished, or repaired. Tie shoes 116 may be metal plates that are bent at an angle so that they may be coupled to a side of the structure. Tie shoes 116 may comprise one or more holes 506 configured to receive fasteners to mechanically join tie shoes 116 to a side of the structure.

Optionally, either ends of tie beam 114 may be coupled to a circular end plate 508. FIG. 5B shows a front view of an inner face of a circular plate 508 that is coupled to tie beam 114. Circular plate 508 may be a metal disk that comprises a plurality of circumferential holes 510. Tie beam 114 may be configured to be adjustably connected to one or more of the plurality of holes 510. The inclination of tie beam 114 may depend on which holes of the plurality of circumferential holes 510 that tie beam 114 is connected to. Since tie arms 112 are coupled to tie beam 114, the inclination of tie arms 112 with respect to the structure that is being constructed, demolished, or repaired may change as the inclination of tie beam 114 changes. Thus, by installing connecting tie beam 114 to different holes 510 in circular plate 508, the inclination of tie arms 112 with respect to the structure may be adjusted.

FIG. 5C shows a side view of a tie arm 112. As explained above, the inclination of a tie arm 112 may be adjustable by adjusting the connection between tie beam 114 and circular plates 508. In some examples, the length of a tie arm 112 may be adjustable, as well. Tie arm 112 may comprise a plurality of sleeves 512 configured to expand outward in a direction away from the tie beam. When in an unexpanded configuration, sleeves 512 may be configured to nest inside one another. This may allow the lengths of tie arms 112 to be adjusted as needed to achieve a stable coupling between the scaffolding system and the structure that is being constructed, demolished, or repaired. In some examples, a tie arm 112 may have a minimum length of at least 2 feet, at least 3 feet, at least 4 feet, at least 5 feet, at least 6 feet, at least 7 feet, at least 8 feet, at least 9 feet, at least 10 feet, or at least 12 feet. Alternatively, a tie arm 112 may have a maximum length (i.e., length at full extension) that is less than or equal to 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet, 14 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, or 24 feet. Optionally, the length of tie arm 112 may be between 16-32 inches, 32-48 inches, 48-64 inches, 64-80 inches, 12-120 inches, 12-140 inches, 12-160 inches, 12-180 inches, 12-200 inches, 12-220 inches, or 12-240 inches.

Extendable Wall

As described, scaffolding system 100 may include an extendable wall 110 for containing a job site and platforms 106 and 108. By containing the job site and the working platforms, extendable wall 110 may provide protection to members of the public adjacent to the job site, may limit the impact of construction activities and noise in the vicinity of the job site, and may provide edge protection to workers on the working platforms. Additionally, extendable wall may provide workers with protection against wind while they are standing on platforms 106 or 108. Extendable wall 110 may be formed from a plurality of upright panels that are configured to slide outward with respect to the center of scaffolding system 100 in order to increase the length of extendable wall 110. The panels may be moved inward and outward in order to adjust the length of extendable wall 110 as needed to compensate for modifications to the lengths of platforms 106 and 108.

FIG. 6A illustrates exemplary panels 602 of an extendable wall 110. As shown, panels 602 may be configured to at least partially overlap when extendable wall 110 is not fully extended. In order to increase the length of extendable wall 110, each panel 602 may be pulled outward in a direction away from the center 604 of extendable wall 110. Each panel 602 may comprise one or more fixing members (e.g., clips, latches, screws, pins, etc.) configured to secure the panel's position relative to the center 604 of extendable wall 110 when the panel has been extended by a desired amount.

In some embodiments, each panel 602 may comprise a metal mesh. In some embodiments, extendable wall 110 may be configured to couple to a sound blanket in order to provide additional shielding or containment of construction debris and noise when necessary.

Extendable wall 110 may have a base length (i.e., minimum length prior to extension in either direction) of greater than or equal to 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet, 14 feet, or 15 feet. Alternatively, extendable may have a base length of less than or equal to 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet, 14 feet, or 15 feet. Optionally, the length of extendable wall 110 may be extended (e.g., by sliding one or more panels outward) by at least 1 foot, at least 2 feet, at least 3 feet, at least 4 feet, at least 5 feet, at least 6 feet, at least 7 feet, at least 8 feet, at least 9 feet, or at least 10 feet over its base length.

Optionally, scaffolding system 100 may include one or more side walls coupled to the sides (e.g., sides 134 or 136) of the working platforms. Extendable wall 110 may connect to the side walls on a working platform in order to close off the edges of the working platform in order to contain the job site along its entire perimeter and to shield the working platforms from the wind on all sides (excluding the side of the working platform that is directly coupled to the structure being constructed or demolished). FIG. 6B and FIG. 6C show a perspective view and a top view, respectively, of extendable wall 110 coupled to a pair side walls 144 for a working platform.

Installing and Adjusting the Scaffolding System

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary method 700 for installing and adjusting components of the scaffolding system described herein. Specifically, method 700 provides a process for installing and modifying a pair of working platforms such as platforms 106 and 108 of scaffolding system 100.

In a first step 702, a lower platform may be adjustably connected to a plurality of tower extensions. Next, in step 704, a plurality of fixing members may be attached to the lower platform. The upper platform may then be adjustably connected to the plurality of tower extensions at a position above the location at which the lower platform is connected (step 706).

The separation distance between the lower platform and the upper platform may be determined by the lengths of the fixing members. The upper platform may be connected to the fixing members in order to ensure that the separation distance between the upper platform and the lower platform remains constant.

Once the upper and lower platforms have been installed, the positions of the lower and upper platforms along the plurality of tower extensions may be manually adjusted (step 708). Workers may raise or lower the platforms using a manual height adjustment mechanism such as manual adjustment mechanism 122 shown of scaffolding system 100 shown in FIG. 1. The manual adjustment mechanism may comprise one or more manual winches that control a plurality of ropes connected to the upper or lower platforms. The platforms may be raised or lowered by simultaneously rotating handles connected to each of the manual winches that control the plurality of ropes connected to the upper or lower platforms. A portion of the lower platform or a portion of the upper platform (such as, for example, removable stages 130) may need to be removed in order to allow the platforms to travel freely along the tower extensions without interfering with other components of the scaffolding system.

After the upper and lower platforms are positioned at a desired height, they may be anchored to the plurality of tower extensions (step 710). As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the tower extensions may include a plurality of holes that are configured to receive fasteners (e.g., bolts or screws) to secure the platforms to the tower extensions. Once the platforms have been anchored to the tower extensions, workers may optionally adjust one or more dimensions of the lower or the upper platforms (step 712). Adjustments to the width of a platform may be accomplished by extending or retracting brackets along the edges of the platforms and placing timber or metal boards atop one or more of them.

In some examples, as discussed, the scaffolding system may include an extendable wall configured to shield the working platforms from the wind. Once the lengths and widths of the upper and lower platforms have been appropriately modified, the length of the extendable wall may be adjusted to match the (possibly modified) lengths of the upper and lower platforms (step 714). This may ensure that the job site is fully contained prior to the initiation of construction activities within the perimeter created by the tower extensions, the platforms, and the extendable walls. Additionally, the installing and adjusting the extendable walls may ensure workers standing on extended portions of the platforms are sufficiently shielded from high winds.

Upon full extension of the platforms and wall, workers standing on the platforms can safely install or remove additional tower extensions, tie beams, tie arms and tie shoes. Installing or removing additional scaffolding components from an erected platform may ensure that the public is protected from construction debris and other falling hazards as the workers erect or dismantle the scaffolding system.

Conclusion

Any one or more characteristics of any of the embodiments (including claims) described, shown, and/or referenced herein may be combined, in whole or in part, with any one or more characteristics of any one or more other embodiments (including claims) described, shown, and/or referenced herein.

The foregoing description, for the purpose of explanation, has been described with reference to specific embodiments. However, the illustrative discussions above are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the techniques and their practical applications. Others skilled in the art are thereby enabled to best utilize the techniques and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Although the disclosure and examples have been fully described with reference to the accompanying figures, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included within the scope of the disclosure and examples as defined by the claims. Finally, the entire disclosure of the patents and publications referred to in this application are hereby incorporated herein by reference.

SCAFFOLDING SYSTEM

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CPC

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CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Provisional Applications (1)