Patent Grant
11485616
The present application relates to platforms, hoists and davits for working on towers. The tower may be a cell phone or other telecommunication tower containing antennas or alternatively may be a structural column in a building.
There are different types of cell phone towers, including monopole, lattice, guyed, and camouflaged. For example, the monopole tower requires one foundation and height does not exceed about 200 feet. In this type, antennas are mounted on the exterior of the tower. Next, lattice towers are usually seen along the highways. They are three and four sided. Guyed towers are cheap to construct but cover large areas. Radio and TV stations use this type of cell phone tower. This tower uses guy wires connected to the ground to provide the support to the straight tower in the middle. It is about 300 feet or more in height. Finally, camouflaged towers are more expensive compared to other cell tower types. They are often required by zoning.
Unfortunately, due to the quick growth of cell phones and data demands, which necessitate that the towers be located near populated areas, working on cell phone towers has become very expensive (necessitating expensive lifts) and dangerous. In addition, tower maintenance can require Class IV rigging plans requiring engineering sign off, resulting in delays and expenses.
U.S. Pat. No. 10,464,788 describes a portable hoisting system having an upright pole for tower repair. However, among other things, the product is bulky, has a high center of gravity above the tower, and involves loading the pulley with the load line through the piping.
Thus, there is a need for improved systems to work on telecommunication towers.
In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a hoist, platform and davit for towers such as telecommunications towers and columns in a building. In some embodiments, the method may include attaching a hoist to a monopole. In other embodiments, the hoist may attach to towers having multiple legs, such as guyed or self-support towers. In further embodiments, the hoist may have a mast that extends above the tower.
More particularly, in some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a hoist to a tower pole comprising a tower pole top located above the ground, a tower pole bottom and a tower pole height extending from the tower pole top to the tower pole bottom may include assembling a hoist system by performing the following steps in any suitable order including simultaneously: securing a first clamp bracket system to the tower pole by placing the first clamp bracket system at least partially around the tower pole; and providing a hoist comprising a hoist beam comprising a forward end, a rear end, a hoist beam length extending from the forward end to the rear end. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system (i.e., at least after all parts are installed if not prior to all parts being installed), the first clamp bracket system connects the hoist beam rear end to the tower pole; the hoist beam extends laterally from the tower pole and the first clamp bracket system; the hoist further comprises at least one sheave connected to the hoist beam and receiving a load line; and/or a brace cable connects the hoist beam to the tower pole and extends at an angle relative to the tower pole height and comprises an upper end connected to the tower pole and a lower end connected to the hoist beam.
Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the hoist beam comprises at least one load-end sheave and at least one return sheave, wherein the return sheave is located between the at least one load-end sheave and the hoist beam rear end. Optionally, a load line extends from below the hoist beam, at least partially around the at least one load-end sheave and at least partially around the at least one return sheave and then below the hoist beam. Optionally, the at least one load end sheave and return sheave are each configured to rotate about axes extending generally perpendicular to the hoist beam length. Optionally, the load line is connected to a load located below the hoist beam. Optionally, the load line is connected to a heel block and a winch, the heel block located below the hoist beam and connected to the tower pole, the winch located below the hoist beam, and further wherein the load line extends from the heel block upwards to the at least one return sheave. Optionally, the hoist beam comprises a plurality of load-end sheaves spaced about the hoist beam length. Optionally, the hoist beam comprises a top, a bottom, a hoist beam height extending from the top to the rear bottom, a hoist beam channel extending from the hoist beam top to hoist beam bottom, the hoist beam channel dividing the hoist beam into a hoist beam left side and hoist beam right side, and further wherein the least one load-end sheave, the at least one return sheave and at least a segment/section of the load line are located in the channel. Optionally, the hoist beam further comprises a termination bracket, the termination bracket having an upper end located in the hoist beam channel and a lower end extending downward from the hoist beam and comprising a hole. Optionally, a tie-off cable connected to a human is secured to the termination bracket. Optionally, the load line runs from below the hoist beam, up through the hoist beam channel between the at least one return sheave and the hoist beam rear end, at least partially around the at least one return sheave and the at least one load-end sheave, and back down through the hoist beam channel between the at least one load-end sheave and the forward end of the hoist beam, and further wherein, the load line runs down to a sheave connected to a load and back up to the termination bracket. Optionally, the hoist beam further comprises a plurality of rope guides located on the hoist beam bottom on each of the hoist beam left side and hoist beam right side between the at least one return sheave and the hoist beam rear end and adjacent to the hoist beam channel, the rope guides configured to protect the hoist beam and the load line from wear caused by the load line making contact with the hoist beam as a load is raised or lowered. Optionally, the tower pole comprises a portion of a telecommunications tower further comprising an antenna. Optionally, the tower pole is a structural column in a building comprising an interior, and optionally the first clamp bracket system faces the interior of the building. Optionally, the tower pole is a leg of the telecommunications tower.
Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the first clamp bracket system comprises a first clamp central bracket comprising a front side connected to the rear side of the hoist beam, a rear side facing the tower pole (and preferably engaging the tower pole) and opposite the front side, a left side and a right side and a u-shaped cable system extending partially around the tower pole and comprising a first end connected to the left side and a second end connected to the right side. Optionally, the u-shaped cable system is comprised of one or more chain tensioners and one or more chains, said one or more chain tensioners connected to the central bracket and the chains and chain tensioners engage the perimeter of the tower pole. Optionally, the u-shaped cable system is comprised of a left chain, a left chain tensioner, a flexible clamp cable, a right chain, and a right chain tensioner, the left chain tensioner having a forward end connected to the first clamp central bracket left side and a rear end connected to a forward end of the left chain, the left chain having a rear end connected to a left end of the flexible clamp cable, the flexible clamp cable having a right end connected to a rear end of the right chain, the right chain having a forward end connected to a rear end of the right chain tensioner, the right chain tensioner having a forward end connected to the right side of the first clamp central bracket.
Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the hoist beam is pivotally connected to the first clamp central bracket via at least two pivots such that the hoist beam can at least partially rotate around the tower pole in the plane perpendicular to the tower pole height and the hoist beam forward end can move relative to the hoist beam rear end between a raised position in which the hoist beam forward end is located higher than the hoist beam rear end and a lowered position in which the hoist beam forward end is located at the same height or lower than the hoist beam rear end. Optionally, the two pivots have perpendicular pivot axes so that the hoist beam may simultaneously move in two planes that are perpendicular to each other. Optionally, a horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivotably connects the hoist beam to the first clamp central bracket, the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt configured to allow the hoist beam to rotate clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally perpendicular to the tower pole height, wherein rotation of the hoist beam about the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam forward end to move upward and downward and toward and away from the tower pole top. Optionally, the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt rotates with the hoist beam about the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis. Optionally, the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt does not rotate with the hoist beam about the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis. Optionally, a lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivotably connects the hoist beam to the first clamp central bracket, the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt located rearwardly relative to the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt, the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt configured to allow the hoist beam to rotate clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally parallel to the tower pole height, wherein rotation of the hoist beam about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam to rotate at least partially around said tower pole in the plane perpendicular to the tower pole height. Optionally, the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt rotates with the hoist beam about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis. Optionally, the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt does not rotate with the hoist beam about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis. Optionally, the first clamp bracket system further comprises a brake, the brake, when engaged, configured to prevent rotation of the hoist beam clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis. Optionally, the first clamp central bracket further comprises a movable bridge, the movable bridge comprising a forward section comprising the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt and a rear section comprising the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt, the movable bridge configured to rotate around the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis with the hoist beam (to allow the hoist beam to move in the plane perpendicular to the pole height). Optionally, the movable bridge remains stationary while the hoist beam rotates about the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis. Optionally, the first clamp central bracket further comprises an upper plate comprising an upper plate bolt hole and a lower plate comprising a lower plate bolt hole, wherein the movable bridge is positioned between the upper plate and the lower plate and further wherein the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt extends vertically through the movable bridge and is positioned in and rotates in the upper plate bolt hole and lower plate bolt hole as the hoist beam rotates about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis. Optionally, the first clamp bracket system further comprises a brake, the brake, when engaged, configured to releasably engage the movable bridge so to prevent the movable bridge (and hence the hoist beam) from rotating around the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis.
Optionally, the method further comprises securing a second clamp bracket system to the tower pole by placing the second bracket system at least partially around the tower pole. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the second clamp bracket system is located above the first clamp bracket system and the second clamp bracket system comprises a second clamp central bracket comprising a front side connected to the upper end of the brace cable, a rear side facing the tower pole and opposite the front side, a left side and a right side. Optionally, the upper end of the brace cable is pivotally connected to the second clamp central bracket via at least one pivot such that the hoist beam can at least partially rotate around the tower pole in the plane perpendicular to the pole height. Optionally, an upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivotably connects the upper end of the brace cable to the second clamp central bracket, the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt configured to allow the brace cable to rotate clockwise and/or counter clockwise about a upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally parallel to the tower pole height, wherein rotation of the brace cable about the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam to rotate at least partially around the tower pole in the plane perpendicular to the pole height, and further wherein the brace cable rotates about the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt axis in coordination with the hoist beam as the hoist beam rotates about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt axis. Optionally, the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt rotates with the brace cable about the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis. Optionally, the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt does not rotate with the brace cable about the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis. Optionally, the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt is located directly above the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt (such that the upper and lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt axes are aligned). Optionally, at least one vertical brace extends generally parallel to the tower pole height and connects the first clamp central bracket to the second clamp central bracket. Optionally, a pair of vertical braces spaced apart by a distance extend between the first and second clamp central brackets and connect the first clamp central bracket to the second clamp central bracket, wherein each vertical brace comprises an upper end and a lower end, and further wherein the distance between the vertical braces is less at the lower end of the vertical braces as compared to the upper end of the vertical braces to form a V-shape. Optionally, the brace cable comprises an upper chain, a turnbuckle, and a lower chain, the upper chain having an upper end connected to the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt and a lower end connected to an upper end of the turnbuckle and further wherein the lower chain comprises an upper end connected to a lower end of the turnbuckle and a lower end connected to the hoist beam. Optionally, the hoist beam is configured to move into the raised position when the turnbuckle is shortened. Optionally, the first and second clamp brackets are vertically aligned.
Optionally, a plurality of adjustable (preferably threaded) jack bolts extend through a portion of at least one of the first clamp central bracket and the second clamp central bracket and engage a surface of the tower pole (preferably without extending into the tower pole), and said engagement is configured to prevent the first clamp central bracket and/or the second clamp central bracket from rotating or sliding relative to the tower pole. In other words, the connection is preferably not a mechanical interconnection of a bolt extending into a hole in the tower pole but instead part of a bolt engaging the surface of the tower pole creates sufficient friction to prevent rotation or sliding. Optionally, the adjustable jack bolts are oriented generally perpendicular to the tower pole height. Optionally, the adjustable jack bolts are spaced partially about a perimeter of the tower pole. Optionally, each adjustable jack bolt comprises a proximal end facing the tower pole and a distal end opposite the proximal end and further wherein adjustment of the jack bolt (e.g., turning the adjustable jack bolts clockwise and counter-clockwise) allows the jack bolt proximal end (and attached first and second clamp brackets) to move toward and away from the tower pole. Optionally, at least one of the first clamp central bracket and the second clamp central bracket comprises a plurality of jack brackets spaced partially about a perimeter of the tower pole, each jack bracket comprising a side facing the tower pole, each of the respective sides comprising a hole oriented generally perpendicular to the tower pole height, each of the respective holes comprising an adjustable (preferably threaded) jack bolt extending laterally through the respective hole perpendicular to the tower pole height, the adjustable jack bolt engaging the tower pole and preferably preventing the first and/or second central brackets from rotating or sliding relative to the tower pole (and preferably also allowing the hoist beam to rotate about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt axis in a true horizontal arc). Optionally, the tower pole is a monopole, said monopole being in the shape of a polygon comprising a plurality of tapered sides, each side wider at the bottom of the side as compared to the top, each adjustable jack bolt engaging (but preferably not extending into) a side and spaced partially about a perimeter of the monopole. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the first clamp central bracket further comprises a removable insert. Optionally, said first clamp bracket system forms a complete loop about said pole. Optionally, a removable lug connects the hoist beam to the brace cable lower end. Optionally, the hoist beam is connected to a man basket configured to carry a human.
In still further embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a clamp bracket system to a monopole tower, the method comprising the steps of a) providing a monopole; and b) securing a clamp bracket system to the tower, where the clamp bracket system comprises a clamp central bracket comprising a front side, a rear side facing the tower pole (and preferably engaging the monopole) and opposite the front side, a left side and a right side and a u-shaped cable system extending partially around the tower pole and comprising a first end connected to the left side and a second end connected to the right side. Optionally, as previously described, the u-shaped cable system is comprised of one or more chain tensioners and one or more chains, said one or more chain tensioners connected to the central bracket and the chains and chain tensioners engage the perimeter of the monopole. Optionally, the u-shaped cable system is comprised of a left chain, a left chain tensioner, a flexible clamp cable, a right chain, and a right chain tensioner, the left chain tensioner having a forward end connected to the first clamp central bracket left side and a rear end connected to a forward end of the left chain, the left chain having a rear end connected to a left end of the flexible clamp cable, the flexible clamp cable having a right end connected to a rear end of the right chain, the right chain having a forward end connected to a rear end of the right chain tensioner, the right chain tensioner having a forward end connected to the right side of the first clamp central bracket. The clamp central bracket may be attached to a beam (as described above) or a mast as described below. In addition, the system may include one or more features described above.
In further embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a hoist to a tower pole comprising a tower pole top located above the ground, a tower pole bottom and a tower pole height extending from the tower pole top to the tower pole bottom, the method comprising assembling a hoist system by performing the following steps in any suitable order including simultaneously: securing a first clamp bracket system to the tower pole by placing the first clamp bracket system at least partially around the tower pole; securing a mast to the first clamp bracket system, the mast comprising a top, a bottom, and a height extending from the top to the bottom; providing a first mast bracket system; and providing a hoist comprising a hoist beam comprising a forward end, a rear end, a hoist beam length extending from the forward end to the rear end. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the first clamp bracket system connects the mast to the tower pole; the first mast bracket is located above the first clamp bracket system and connects the hoist beam rear end to the mast and wraps at least partially around the mast; the hoist beam extends laterally from the mast and the first mast bracket system; the hoist further comprises at least one sheave connected to the hoist beam and receiving a pulley cable; a brace cable connects the hoist beam to the mast above the first mast bracket system and extends at an angle relative to the tower pole height and comprises an upper end connected to the mast and a lower end connected to the hoist beam; and/or the mast height is generally parallel to the tower pole height.
Optionally, a second mast bracket system connects the upper an x-shaped vertical brace extends between the first and second mast bracket systems end of the brace cable to the mast. Optionally, at least one bolt extends from the second mast bracket system into an interior of the mast, the at least one bolt configured to prevent rotation of the second mast bracket system relative to the mast. Optionally, the mast top (and the hoist beam rear end) is located above the tower pole top. Optionally, the mast comprises at least one bearing system configured to allow the mast to rotate relative to a mast central/longitudinal axis which runs generally parallel to the tower pole height. Optionally, the bearing system further comprises a brake, the brake, when engaged, configured to prevent the mast from rotating relative to the mast central/longitudinal axis. Optionally, the bearing system comprises a bearing bolt passing through the at least one bearing and is aligned with the mast central/longitudinal axis, wherein a nut is attached to the bearing bolt and forms said brake, and further wherein tightening of said nut is configured to prevent the mast from rotating relative to the mast central/longitudinal axis.
Optionally, the mast may comprise one or more of the following features (or any combination thereof): a cylindrical upper mast pipe comprising a top end, a bottom end, a upper mast pipe height extending from the top to the bottom, an interior, an interior surface, an inner diameter, an exterior surface, an exterior diameter, and a plurality of holes adjacent the top end configured to allow a bolt to be inserted through the upper mast pipe; a cylindrical lower mast pipe having a lower mast pipe top, a lower mast pipe bottom, a height extending from the lower mast pipe top to the lower mast pipe bottom, an interior, an interior surface, an inner diameter, an exterior surface, an exterior diameter, and a plurality of holes adjacent the top end configured to allow a rod to be inserted through the lower mast pipe; a circular stabilizer plate having an upper face, a lower face opposite the upper face, a center hole extending from the upper face through the lower face, a plurality of outer holes along a perimeter of the stabilizer plate, and a stabilizer plate diameter; a first bearing plate having a top comprising an upper face, a bottom comprising a lower face opposite the upper face, a center hole extending from the upper face through the lower face, an outer edge, and a first bearing plate diameter, wherein the first bearing plate diameter is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the upper mast pipe; a second bearing plate having a top comprising an upper face, a bottom comprising a lower face opposite the upper face, a center hole extending from the upper face through the lower face, an outer edge, and a second bearing plate diameter, wherein the second bearing plate diameter is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the upper mast pipe; a third bearing plate having a top comprising an upper face, a bottom comprising a lower face opposite the upper face, a center hole extending from the upper face through the lower face, an upper face edge, a lower face edge, an upper face diameter, a lower face diameter, wherein the upper face diameter is less than the upper mast pipe inner diameter and the lower face diameter is substantially equal to the lower mast pipe inner diameter, and further wherein the upper face diameter is greater than the lower face diameter so as to create a ledge/recess extending around the lower face edge; a fourth bearing plate having top comprising an upper face, a bottom comprising a lower face opposite the upper face, a center hole extending from the upper face through the lower face, an outer edge, and a fourth bearing plate diameter, wherein the fourth bearing plate diameter is substantially equal to the lower mast pipe inner diameter. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the upper faces of the circular stabilizer plate and the first, second, third and four bearing plates face upwards and the lower faces of the of the circular stabilizer plate and the first, second, third and four bearing plates face downwards; the lower mast pipe top is located within the upper mast pipe interior and the lower mast pipe exterior surface does not contact the upper mast pipe interior surface; the stabilizer plate lower face contacts the upper mast pipe top; the first bearing plate is located below the stabilizer plate and within the upper mast pipe interior, the first bearing plate outer edge contacting the upper mast pipe interior surface, the first bearing plate upper face facing the stabilizer plate lower face; the second bearing plate is located below the first bearing plate and within the upper mast pipe interior, the second bearing plate outer edge contacting the upper mast pipe interior surface, the second bearing plate upper face facing the first bearing plate lower face; the fourth bearing plate is located below the third bearing plate and within the lower mast pipe interior, the fourth bearing plate outer edge contacting the lower mast pipe interior surface, the fourth bearing plate upper face facing the third bearing plate lower face; an top washer is positioned below the third bearing plate, the top washer comprising a center hole, an upper face confronting the third bearing plate lower face and a lower face; a bottom washer is positioned below the top washer and comprising a center hole, an upper face confronting the lower face of the top washer and a lower face confronting the upper face of the fourth bearing plate, wherein the bottom washer is rotatable relative to the top washer; a bearing bolt passes through the center holes of the first, second, third, and fourth bearing plates and the upper and the center holes of the upper and lower washer; at least one bolt passes through the plurality of holes in the top of the upper mast pipe and between the first and second bearing plates; wherein at least one rod passes through the plurality of holes in the top of the lower mast pipe and between the third and fourth bearing plates. Optionally, the system may include one or more features described
In still further embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a hoist to a tower comprising a left tower leg and a right tower leg, the left tower leg connected to the right tower leg by a plurality of tower braces, the tower, the left tower leg and the right tower leg each having a top located above the ground, a bottom and a height extending from the top to the bottom, the method comprising assembling a hoist system by performing the following steps in any suitable order including simultaneously: securing a lower right clamp bracket system to the right tower leg/pole by placing the lower right clamp bracket system at least partially around the right tower leg/pole; securing an upper right clamp bracket system to the right tower leg/pole by placing the upper right clamp bracket system at least partially around the right tower leg/pole; securing a lower left clamp bracket system to the left tower leg/pole by placing the lower left clamp bracket system at least partially around the left tower leg/pole; securing an upper left clamp bracket system to the left tower leg/pole by placing the upper left clamp bracket system at least partially around the left tower leg/pole; providing a hoist comprising a hoist beam comprising a forward end, a rear end, a hoist beam length extending from the hoist beam forward end to the hoist rear end; providing an upper cross beam and a lower cross beam. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the lower left clamp bracket system is at substantially the same height as the lower right clamp bracket system; the lower cross beam extends between the lower left clamp bracket system and the lower right clamp bracket system and is oriented generally parallel to the ground and perpendicular to the left and right pole heights; the upper left clamp bracket system is at substantially the same height as the upper right clamp bracket system; the upper cross beam extends between the upper left clamp bracket system and the upper right clamp bracket system and is oriented generally parallel to the ground and perpendicular to the left and right pole heights; the upper cross beam, the upper left clamp bracket system and the upper right clamp bracket system are located above the lower cross beam, the lower left clamp bracket system and the lower right clamp bracket system; the hoist beam is connected to the lower cross beam and extends laterally from the lower cross beam; the hoist further comprises at least one sheave connected to the hoist beam and receiving a pulley cable (also referred to in the art as a load line); and/or a brace cable connects the hoist beam to the upper cross beam and extends at an angle relative to the left and right tower pole heights and comprises an upper end connected to the upper cross beam and a lower end connected to the hoist beam.
Optionally, the tower is in the form of a guyed or self-support tower and further comprises a rear pole located rearwardly relative to the left pole and right pole and connected to the left and right pole by a plurality of tower braces. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, a lower cross beam bracket is connected to the lower cross beam between the lower left clamp bracket system and the lower right clamp bracket system, wherein a horizontally-oriented pivot bolt connects the hoist beam to the lower cross beam bracket, the hoist beam configured to rotate clockwise and counter-clockwise about a horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally perpendicular to the tower pole height, wherein rotation of the hoist beam about the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam forward end to move upward and downward and toward and away from the tower (to allow the hoist beam to move between the raised and lowered positions). Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, a lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt connects the hoist beam to the lower cross beam bracket, the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt located rearwardly relative to the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt and configured to allow the hoist beam to rotate clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally parallel to the tower pole height. Optionally, rotation of the hoist beam about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam to move toward and away from the lower cross beam (to allow the hoist beam to move in a plane perpendicular to the tower pole height). Optionally, the lower cross beam bracket further comprises a movable bridge, as described previously. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, an upper cross beam bracket is connected to the upper cross beam between the upper left clamp bracket system and the upper right clamp bracket system, the upper cross beam bracket located above the lower cross beam bracket, an upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt connects the upper end of the brace cable to the upper cross beam bracket, the brace cable configured to rotate (in a coordinated fashion with the hoist beam) clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally parallel to the tower pole height, and rotation of the brace cable about the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam to move toward and away from the lower cross beam (to allow the hoist beam to move in the plane perpendicular to the tower pole height). Optionally, a lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt connects the hoist beam to the lower cross beam bracket, the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt located rearwardly relative to the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt and configured to allow the hoist beam to rotate clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally parallel to the tower pole height, and rotation of the hoist beam about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam to move toward and away from the lower cross beam (to allow the hoist beam to move in a plane perpendicular to the tower pole height). Optionally, the lower cross beam bracket further comprises a movable bridge, as described previously. Optionally, an upper cross beam bracket is connected to the upper cross beam between the upper left clamp bracket system and the upper right clamp bracket system, the upper cross beam bracket located above the lower cross beam bracket, an upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt connects the upper end of the brace cable to the upper cross beam bracket, the brace cable configured to rotate (in a coordinated fashion with the hoist beam) clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally parallel to the tower pole height, and rotation of the brace cable about the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam to move toward and away from the lower cross beam (to allow the hoist beam to move in the plane perpendicular to the tower pole height). Optionally, the system may include one or more features described above.
In still further embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a hoist to a tower comprising a left tower pole and a right tower pole, the left tower pole connected to the right tower pole by a plurality of tower braces, the tower, the left tower pole and the right tower pole each having a top located above the ground, a bottom and a height extending from the top to the bottom, the method comprising assembling a hoist system by performing the following steps in any suitable order including simultaneously: securing a lower right clamp bracket system to the right tower pole by placing the lower right clamp bracket system at least partially around the right tower pole; securing an upper right clamp bracket system to the right tower pole by placing the upper right clamp bracket system at least partially around the right tower pole; securing a lower left clamp bracket system to the left tower pole by placing the lower left clamp bracket system at least partially around the left tower pole; securing an upper left clamp bracket system to the left tower pole by placing the upper left clamp bracket system at least partially around the left tower pole; providing a hoist comprising a hoist beam comprising a forward end, a rear end, a hoist beam length extending from the hoist beam forward end to the hoist rear end; providing an upper cross beam and a lower cross beam; providing a mast. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the lower left clamp bracket system is at substantially the same height as the lower right clamp bracket system; the lower cross beam extends between the lower left clamp bracket system and the lower right clamp bracket system and is oriented generally parallel to the ground (and perpendicular to the left and right pole heights); the upper left clamp bracket system is at substantially the same height as the upper right clamp bracket system; the upper cross beam extends between the upper left clamp bracket system and the upper right clamp bracket system and is oriented generally parallel to the ground (and perpendicular to the left and right pole heights); the upper cross beam, the upper left clamp bracket system and the upper right clamp bracket system are located above the lower cross beam, the lower left clamp bracket system and the lower right clamp bracket system; the mast is connected to the lower cross beam by a lower cross beam bracket located between the lower left clamp bracket system and the lower right clamp bracket, the mast is connected to the upper cross beam by an upper cross beam bracket located between the upper left clamp bracket system and the upper right clamp bracket system, and the mast comprises a mast height extending generally parallel to the tower pole height; the hoist beam is connected to the mast and extends laterally from the mast; the hoist further comprises at least one sheave connected to the hoist beam and receiving a pulley cable (also referred to in the art as a load line); and/or a brace cable connects the hoist beam to the mast and extends at an angle relative to the left and right tower pole heights and comprises an upper end connected to the mast and a lower end connected to the hoist beam.
Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, first mast clamp bracket is located above the upper cross beam bracket and connects the hoist beam rear end to the mast and wraps at least partially around the mast. Optionally, the mast top (and hoist beam rear end) is located above the tower top. Optionally, the mast comprises at least one bearing as described previously. Optionally, the system may include one or more features described above.
In still further embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a hoist to a tower comprising securing a hoist comprising one or more components described herein to the tower. In other embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a hoist to a tower comprising securing a hoist comprising one or more components described herein to the tower. In another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a clamp bracket system comprising one or more components described herein to the tower. In still further embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a hoist to a tower comprising a tower top, a tower bottom and a tower pole height extending from the top to the bottom, the method comprising: securing a davit comprising a sheave to the tower using a clamp bracket so that the davit comprises a davit height generally parallel to the tower pole height; and securing a mast to the tower using the clamp bracket. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the mast is connected to a hoist comprising a hoist beam and the hoist beam extends downwardly along the mast (as opposed to laterally). Optionally, the hoist beam is connected to the mast as described above and/or illustrated in the figures. Optionally, the davit comprises an upper davit pole partially nested in an interior of a lower davit pole. Optionally, the davit sheave is adjacent to a top end of the davit.
In another embodiment, the tower may include a right tower leg/pole and a rear left tower leg/pole that are connected by a plurality of tower braces. Optionally, the rear right tower leg/pole may comprise a rear right tower leg/pole top, a rear right tower leg/pole bottom, a rear right tower leg/pole height extending from the rear right tower leg/pole top and rear right tower leg/pole bottom. Optionally, the rear left tower leg/pole may comprise a rear left tower leg/pole top, a rear left tower pole/leg bottom, a rear left tower/leg pole height extending from the rear left tower/leg pole top and rear left tower pole/leg bottom. Optionally, the first clamp bracket system may be connected to the rear left tower pole/leg by a lower left horizontal brace and/or connected to the rear right tower pole/leg by a lower right horizontal brace. Optionally, the lower left horizontal brace may be connected to the left rear tower pole/leg by a lower left horizontal brace clamp. Optionally, the lower right horizontal brace may be connected to the rear left tower pole/leg by a lower right horizontal brace clamp. Optionally, the second clamp bracket system may be connected to the rear left tower pole/leg by an upper left horizontal brace and/or connected to the rear right tower pole by an upper right horizontal brace. Optionally, the upper left horizontal brace may be connected to the rear tower pole by an upper left horizontal brace clamp. Optionally, the upper right horizontal brace may be connected to the rear right tower pole by an upper right horizontal brace clamp.
In still further embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a platform to a tower pole comprising a tower pole top located above the ground, a tower pole bottom and a tower pole height extending from the tower pole top to the tower pole bottom, the method comprising assembling a platform system by performing the following steps in any suitable order including simultaneously: securing a first clamp bracket system to the tower pole by placing the first clamp bracket system at least partially around the tower pole; and providing a platform comprising a platform beam comprising a forward end, a rear end, a platform beam length extending from the forward end to the rear end. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the first clamp bracket system connects the platform beam rear end to the tower pole; the platform beam extends laterally from the tower pole and the first clamp bracket system; and/or a brace cable connects the platform beam to the tower pole and extends at an angle relative to the tower pole height and comprises an upper end connected to the tower pole and a lower end connected to the platform beam.
Optionally, the platform comprises a substantially solid floor, the substantially solid floor configured to allow a human to stand thereon. Optionally, the platform comprises a horizontal rail and a vertical rail. Optionally, the horizontal rail is located generally perpendicular to the tower pole height and the vertical rail is located generally parallel to the tower pole height. Optionally, the platform length is generally perpendicular to the tower pole height and the method further comprises walking on the platform. Optionally, the platform beam is located at a bottom of the platform. Optionally, the platform comprises two parallel platform beams the platform beam extending laterally from the tower pole and the first clamp bracket system and two parallel brace cables connect the two platform beams to the tower pole and extending at an angle relative to the tower pole height and comprising an upper end connected to the tower pole and a lower end connected to a platform beam. Optionally, the system may include one or more features described above.
In still further embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a platform to a tower comprising a left tower pole and a right tower pole, the left tower pole connected to the right tower pole by a plurality of tower braces, the tower, the left tower pole and the right tower pole each having a top located above the ground, a bottom and a height extending from the top to the bottom, the method comprising assembling a platform system by performing the following steps in any suitable order including simultaneously: securing a lower right clamp bracket system to the right tower pole by placing the lower right clamp bracket system at least partially around the right tower pole; securing an upper right clamp bracket system to the right tower pole by placing the upper right clamp bracket system at least partially around the right tower pole; securing a lower left clamp bracket system to the left tower pole by placing the lower left clamp bracket system at least partially around the left tower pole; securing an upper left clamp bracket system to the left tower pole by placing the upper left clamp bracket system at least partially around the left tower pole; providing a platform comprising a platform beam comprising a forward end, a rear end, a platform beam length extending from the platform beam forward end to the platform rear end; providing an upper cross beam and a lower cross beam. Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, the lower left clamp bracket system is at substantially the same height as the lower right clamp bracket system; the lower cross beam extends between the lower left clamp bracket system and the lower right clamp bracket system and is oriented generally parallel to the ground and perpendicular to the left and right pole heights; the upper left clamp bracket system is at substantially the same height as the upper right clamp bracket system; the upper cross beam extends between the upper left clamp bracket system and the upper right clamp bracket system and is oriented generally parallel to the ground and perpendicular the left and right pole heights; the upper cross beam, the upper left clamp bracket system and the upper right clamp bracket system are located above the lower cross beam, the lower left clamp bracket system and the lower right clamp bracket system; the platform beam is connected to the lower cross beam and extends laterally from the lower cross beam; and/or a brace cable connects the platform beam to the upper cross beam and extends at an angle relative to the left and right tower pole heights and comprises an upper end connected to the upper cross beam and a lower end connected to the platform beam. Optionally, the system of paragraph may include one or more features described above.
In still another embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method of securing a hoist to a tower comprising a rectangular tower pole, the rectangular tower pole having a top located above the ground, a bottom and a height extending from the top to the bottom, the method comprising assembling a hoist system by performing the following steps in any suitable order including simultaneously: providing an upper forward cross beam, an upper rear cross beam, a lower forward cross beam, and a lower rear cross beam; securing the upper forward cross beam and the upper rear cross beam to the rectangular tower pole by having a upper left rod extend and an upper right rod extend between the upper forward cross beam and the upper rear cross beam, the upper left and upper right rods are configured to draw the upper forward cross beam toward the upper rear cross beam to compress the tower pole between the upper forward cross beam and the upper rear cross beam; securing the lower forward cross beam and the lower rear cross beam to the rectangular tower pole by having a lower left rod extend and a lower right rod extend between the lower forward cross beam and the lower rear cross beam, the lower left and lower right rods are configured to draw the lower forward cross beam toward the lower rear cross beam to compress the tower pole between the lower forward cross beam and the lower rear cross beam; providing a hoist comprising a hoist beam comprising a forward end, a rear end, a hoist beam length extending from the hoist beam forward end to the hoist rear end. Optionally at least after complete installation of the system, the upper rear cross beam and upper forward cross beam are at substantially the same height; the lower rear cross beam and lower forward cross beam are at substantially the same height; the upper rear cross beam and the upper forward cross beam are above the lower rear cross beam and lower forward cross beam; the upper forward cross beam and lower forward cross beams extended laterally out from the tower pole on at least one side; the upper rear cross beam, the upper forward cross beam, the lower rear cross beam, and lower forward cross beam are oriented substantially parallel to the ground and perpendicular to the tower pole; the hoist beam is connected to the lower forward cross beam on an end of the lower forward cross beam extending to the side of the tower pole, the hoist beam extending forward from the lower cross beam; the hoist further comprises at least one sheave connected to the hoist beam and receiving a load line; a brace cable connects the hoist beam to the upper forward cross beam on an end of the upper forward cross beam extending to the side of the tower pole, the brace cable extends at an angle relative to the left and right tower pole heights and comprises an upper end connected to the upper forward cross beam and a lower end connected to the hoist beam.
Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, a lower cross beam bracket is connected to the lower cross beam to the outside of, as opposed to between, the left and right lower rods, wherein a horizontally-oriented pivot bolt connects the hoist beam to the lower cross beam bracket, the hoist beam configured to rotate clockwise and counter-clockwise about a horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally perpendicular to the tower pole height, and rotation of the hoist beam about the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam forward end to move upward and downward and toward and away from the tower (to allow the hoist beam to move between a raised and lowered positions). Optionally, a lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt connects the hoist beam to the lower cross beam bracket, the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt located rearwardly relative to the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt and configured to allow the hoist beam to rotate clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally parallel to the tower pole height, wherein rotation of the hoist beam about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam to move toward and away from the lower forward cross beam (to allow the hoist beam to move in a plane perpendicular to the tower pole height). Optionally, the lower cross beam bracket further comprises a movable bridge, as described previously. Optionally, an upper cross beam bracket is connected to the upper cross beam outside of, as opposed to between, the left and right upper rods, the upper cross beam bracket located above the lower cross beam bracket, an upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt connects the upper end of the brace cable to the upper cross beam bracket, the brace cable configured to rotate (in a coordinated fashion with the hoist beam) clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis extending generally parallel to the tower pole height, and rotation of the brace cable about the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis allows the hoist beam to move toward and away from the lower cross beam (to allow the hoist beam to move in the plane perpendicular to the tower pole height). Optionally, the system may include one or more features described above.
With reference to
More particularly, in one embodiment, the present disclosure describes a method of securing a hoist 30 to a tower pole 12 of a tower 10.
The tower 10 may be comprised of a tower pole 12 having any desired shape or structure known or later developed. For example, as known to those of ordinary skill, the tower pole 12 may comprise a tower pole top 14 located above the ground, a tower pole bottom 16 which may be connected directly or indirectly to the ground, a tower pole height 18 extending from the tower pole top 14 to the tower pole bottom 16, and a tower pole outer surface/outer wall/perimeter 20.
The hoist 30 may be secured to the tower pole 12 by performing one or more steps in any suitable order including simultaneously. One step may comprise securing a first clamp bracket system to the tower pole 12 by placing the first clamp bracket system at least partially around the tower pole 12. Another step may comprise providing a hoist 30 comprising a hoist beam 32. Optionally, the hoist beam 32 comprises a forward end 34, a rear end 36, and a hoist beam length 38 extending from the forward end 34 to the rear end 36.
At least after complete installation of the system (i.e., at least after all parts are installed if not prior to), the hoist 30 may have one or more of the features described below. For example, optionally, the first clamp bracket system connects the hoist beam rear end 36 to the tower pole 12. Further, the hoist beam 32 may extend laterally from the tower pole 12 and the first clamp bracket system, as seen in
The hoist beam 32 may further comprise at least one load-end sheave 40 and at least one return sheave 42, as best seen in
The load line 44 may be connected to a load located below the hoist beam 32. Preferably, the end of the load line 44 running at least partially around the at least one load end sheave 40 is the end connected to load. In some embodiments, the other end of the load line 44 (i.e., the end running at least partially around the return sheave 42), may run through a heel block and connect to a winch (not shown). Optionally, the heel block is located below the hoist beam 32 and connected to the tower pole 12. The load line 44 optionally runs upwards from the heel block to the at least one return sheave 42. The segment/section of the load line 44 running between the heel block and the at least one return sheave 42 may optionally be oriented substantially parallel with the tower pole height 18.
In some embodiments, the hoist beam 32 comprises a plurality of load-end sheaves 40 spaced about the hoist beam length 38. Each load-end sheave 40 in the plurality of load-end sheaves 40 is capable of lifting loads at different distances from the tower pole 12 and has a different maximum weight capacity based on the location of the load-end sheave 40 along the hoist beam length 38. An operator will be capable of selecting the correct load-end sheave 40 to use to lift a particular load based on the weight of the load and the distance from the tower pole 12 at which the load is before lifting and/or the distance at which the load will need to be after lifting.
In some embodiments, the hoist beam 32 may optionally comprise one or more of the following features. For example, as best seen in
In some embodiments, the hoist 30 may further comprise a termination bracket 56, as best seen in
The load line 44 may be configured in one or more of the following ways. In some embodiments, the load line 44 may run from below the hoist beam 32, up through the hoist beam channel 54 between the at least one return sheave 42 and the hoist beam rear end 36, at least partially around the at least one return sheave 42 and the at least one load-end sheave 40, and back down through the hoist beam channel 54 between the at least one load-end sheave 40 and the hoist beam forward end 34. Optionally, the load line 44 may further run down to a load sheave (not shown) connected to a load (not shown), through the load sheave, and back up to the hoist beam 32, as shown in
The load line 44 may be any rope, wire, or cable now known or later developed that is suitable for lifting. Preferably, the load line 44 is a fiber rope or a wire rope.
Optionally, the hoist beam 32 further comprises one or more of rope guides 62, as best seen in
In some cases, the tower 10 may be a telecommunications tower. For example, the hoist 30 may be attached to cell phone towers including monopole, guyed, or self-support towers. In the case of a monopole tower or other similar tower, the tower pole 12 is the monopole. In the case of guyed, self-support, or similar towers, the tower pole 12 may be one or more of the tower legs. Optionally, the telecommunications tower may further comprise an antenna. In other embodiments, the tower pole may be a structural column in a building 64 comprising an interior 66, in which case, optionally, the first clamp bracket system 70 faces the building interior 66 when the tower pole 12 is a structural column in a building 64.
Further, at least after complete installation of the system, the first clamp bracket system 70 may have one or more of the following features. The first clamp bracket system 70 may comprise a first clamp central bracket 72, best seen in
In some embodiments, as seen in
For example, as shown in
In some embodiments, at least after complete installation of the system, the hoist beam 32 is pivotally connected to the first clamp central bracket 72 by at least two pivots such that the hoist beam 32 can at least partially rotate around the tower pole 12 in the plane perpendicular to the tower pole height 18 and/or the hoist beam forward end 34 can move relative to the hoist beam rear end 36 between a raised position (shown in
For example, at least after complete installation of the system, as best seen in
As shown in
Further, the first clamp bracket system 70 may further comprise a brake 108 configured to prevent rotation of the hoist beam 32 clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis 107 when the brake 108 is engaged.
As shown in
As shown in
Optionally, as shown in
As shown in
Optionally, the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt 132 may or may not rotate with the brace cable 46 about the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis 134. The upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt 132 may optionally be located directly above the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt 106 such that the upper and lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt axes 107, 134 are vertically aligned.
As shown in
As seen in
As shown in
Optionally, the upper and lower brace cable chains 144, 148 may be replaced by a cable, wire, or other suitable component. Similarly, the turnbuckle 152 may optionally be replaced with a ratchet or other suitable mechanism for shortening or elongating the brace cable 46.
In some embodiments, the hoist 30 may comprise a plurality of jack bolts 160 extend through a portion of the first clamp central bracket 72 and/or the second clamp central bracket 122 and engage the tower pole surface 20. Optionally, the plurality of jack bolts 160 may be located on a top 168, 172 of the first and/or second clamp central brackets 72, 122, a bottom 170, 174 the first and/or second clamp central brackets 72, 122, or both the top 168, 172 and bottom 170, 174 of the first and/or second clamp central brackets 72, 122. Preferably, the plurality of jack bolts 160 are threaded and do not extend into the tower pole 12. Without being bound to any particular theory, said engagement between the jack bolt 160 and the tower pole outer surface/outer wall 20 may be configured to allow for optimal spacing, alignment, and orientation of the first and/or the second clamp central bracket 72, 122, especially if the tower pole is tapered. Tapered poles may prevent the clamps from having the correct vertical and horizontal orientation otherwise. Optionally, he connection between the plurality of jack bolts 160 and the tower pole 12 is not a mechanical interconnection of a bolt extending into a hole in the tower pole 12 but rather a part of each jack bolt 160 engages the tower pole outer surface/outer wall 20.
More particularly, the jack bolts 160 may be structured such that each jack bolt 160 comprises a proximal end 162 facing and engaging the tower pole outer surface/outer wall 20 and a distal end 164 opposite the proximal end 162, and a length (not shown) extending from the jack bolt 160 proximal end to the distal end 164. Preferably, the jack bolts 160 are oriented such that the jack bolt length extends generally perpendicular to the tower pole height 18. The jack bolts 160 may be optionally spaced partially about a perimeter of a tower pole 12. Optionally, the jack bolts 160 are adjustable such that adjustment of the jack bolt 160, for example, turning the jack bolts 160 clockwise and/or counter-clockwise, allows the jack bolt proximal end 162 to move toward and away from the tower pole 12. The jack bolts 160 may also be configured, for example, such that adjustment of the jack bolts 160 moves the first and/or second clamp brackets 72, 122 toward or away from the tower pole outer surface/outer wall 20. Optionally, the jack bolt proximal end 162 may stay engaged with the tower pole outer surface/outer wall 20 as the jack bolt 160 is adjusted. Different methods of adjustment, for example, a ratcheting system, are also possible and will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
In some embodiments, the first and second clamp central brackets 72, 122 may comprise a plurality of jack brackets 176 spaced partially about a perimeter of the tower pole 12. Optionally, each jack bracket 176 further comprises a side facing the tower pole 12 with each of the respective sides facing the tower pole outer surface/outer wall 20 comprising a hole (not shown without jack bolt extending through it) oriented generally perpendicular to the tower pole height 18. Each of the respective holes may further comprise an adjustable, preferably threaded, jack bolt 160 extending laterally through the respective hole perpendicular to the tower pole height 18. As above, the adjustable jack bolt 160 may engage the outer surface/outer wall 20 and preferably prevent the first and/or second central brackets 72, 122 from rotating or sliding relative to the tower pole 12 while also preferably allowing for the hoist beam 32 to rotate about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt axis 107 in a true horizontal arc. Optionally, the jack brackets 176 are in the shape of a wedge or are L-shaped.
In some cases, the tower pole 12 is a monopole. The monopole may be in the shape of a polygon comprising a plurality of flat tapered sides 21. Optionally, each side 21 is be wider at the tower pole bottom 16 as compared to the tower pole top 14. Optionally, each jack bolt 160 may engage, but preferably not extend into, a side 21 and may be spaced partially about a perimeter of the monopole.
Several other optional configurations are possible for the hoist 30 as described below. For example, at least after complete installation, the first and/or second clamp central bracket 72, 122 may further comprise a removable insert 180. The removable insert 180 may be interchangeable and come in several configurations depending on the configuration of the hoist 30 and the requirements of a particular job. In one such configuration, the removable insert 180 may comprise the upper and lower plates 116, 118 to which the movable bridge 110 is discussed as above. In another configuration, the removable insert 180 is configured to secure a mast 200 to the first and/or second clamp bracket systems 72, 122. Other configurations are discussed below.
In some cases, a man basket 182 configured to carry a human may be secured to the hoist beam 32, as shown in
In some embodiments, as best seen in
As shown in
Optionally, the hoist 30 may have one or more of the following features: i) the first and/or second clamp bracket system 72, 122 connects the mast 200 to the tower pole 12; ii) the first mast bracket system 212 is located above the first and/or second clamp bracket system 72, 122 and connects the hoist beam rear end 36 to the mast 200 and wraps at least partially around the mast 200; iii) the hoist beam 32 extends laterally from the mast 200 and the first mast bracket system 210; iv) the hoist further comprises at least one sheave 40,42 connected to the hoist beam 32 and receiving a pulley cable/load line 44; v) a brace cable 46 connects the hoist beam 32 to the mast 200 above the second clamp bracket system 120 and extends at an angle relative to the tower pole height 18 and comprises an upper end 47A connected to the mast 200 and a lower end 47A connected to the hoist beam 32; and/or vi) the mast height 206 is generally parallel to the tower pole height 18. At least after complete installation of the system, the mast top 202 and the hoist beam 32 and/or hoist beam rear end 36 is located above the tower pole top 14.
As shown in
Optionally, as best seen in
Optionally, as best seen in
Optionally, as best seen in
Optionally, as best seen in
Optionally, the upper mast pipe 230 further comprises a lower bearing system 247. The lower bearing system 247 may be located on the upper mast pipe bottom 234. The lower bearing system 247 may comprise rollers 249 that prevent the upper mast pipe interior surface 240 from contacting the lower mast pipe exterior surface 264.
Without being bound to any particular theory, the configuration of the stabilizer plate 270 and the first, second, third, and fourth bearing plates 280, 300, 320, 340 may increase the stability of the upper mast pipe 230 with respect to the lower mast pipe 250 when the hoist 30 is under load. Further, the bearing system 220 may help reduce the force necessary to rotate the upper mast pipe 230 with respect to the lower mast pipe 250. Additionally, the plurality of holes 278 in stabilizer plate 270 may allow a user to, among other things, correct or change the orientation of the upper mast pipe with respect to the lower mast pipe if, for example, the upper mast pipe rotates under load.
In addition, the system may include one or more features described previously.
In another embodiment, as shown for example in
Optionally, as shown in
Optionally, as shown in
Optionally, as shown in
The lower cross beam bracket 390 may further comprise a movable bridge 110, as described previously and shown in
Optionally, as shown in
In addition, the system may optionally comprise include one or more features described previously.
In another embodiment, as shown for example in
Optionally, as shown for example in
Optionally, as shown for example in
In addition, the system may optionally comprise include one or more features described previously.
In other embodiments, a hoist 30 comprising one or more components as described herein may be secured to a tower pole 12, and/or a clamp bracket system 70 comprising one or more components described herein may be secured to the tower pole 12.
In still further embodiments, as shown in
In addition, the system may optionally comprise include one or more features described previously.
In a further embodiment, as shown in
In addition, the system may optionally comprise include one or more features described previously.
In a further embodiment, as shown in
Optionally, as shown in
Optionally, as shown in
In addition, the system may optionally comprise include one or more features described previously.
The platform 400 also may be secured to a tower 10 (e.g., guyed or self-support tower) comprising a left tower leg/pole 22 and a right tower leg/pole 24, the left tower leg/pole 22 connected to the right tower leg/pole 24 by a plurality of tower braces 28, the left tower leg/pole 22 and the right tower leg/pole 24 each having a top 14A, 14B located above the ground, a bottom 16A, 16B that may be connected directly or indirectly to the ground, and a height 18A, 18B extending from the top 14A, 14B to the bottom 16A, 16B. Optionally, the platform 400 may be secured to the tower 10 by system by performing one or more of the following steps in any suitable order including simultaneously: a) securing a lower right clamp bracket system 380 to the right tower pole 24 by placing the lower right clamp bracket system 380 at least partially around the right tower leg/pole 24; b) securing an upper right clamp bracket system 382 to the right tower leg/pole 24 by placing the upper right clamp bracket system 382 at least partially around the right tower pole 24; c) securing a lower left clamp bracket system 384 to the left tower leg/pole 22 by placing the lower left clamp bracket system 384 at least partially around the left tower leg/pole 22; d) securing an upper left clamp bracket system 386 to the left tower pole 22 by placing the upper left clamp bracket system 386 at least partially around the left tower leg/pole 22; e) providing a platform 400 comprising a platform beam 402 comprising a forward end 404, a rear end 406, a platform beam length 408 extending from the platform beam forward end 404 to the platform rear end 406; and/or f) providing an upper cross beam 388 and a lower cross beam 389.
In addition, the system may optionally comprise include one or more features described previously.
Optionally, i) the lower left clamp bracket system 384 may be at substantially the same height as the lower right clamp bracket system 380; ii) the lower cross beam 389 may extend between the lower left clamp bracket system 384 and the lower right clamp bracket system 380 and may be oriented generally parallel to the ground and perpendicular to the left and right pole heights 18A,18B; iii) the upper left clamp bracket system 386 is at substantially the same height as the upper right clamp bracket system 382; iv) the upper cross beam 388 may extend between the upper left clamp bracket system 386 and the upper right clamp bracket system 382 and/or may be oriented generally parallel to the ground and perpendicular the left and right pole heights 18A,18B; v) the upper cross beam 388, the upper left clamp bracket system 386 and/or the upper right clamp bracket system 382 may be located above the lower cross beam 389, the lower left clamp bracket system 384 and/or the lower right clamp bracket system 380; vi) the platform beam 402 may be connected to the lower cross beam 389 and/or may extend laterally from the lower cross beam 389; and/or vii) a brace cable 46 may connect the platform beam 402 to the upper cross beam 388, extends at an angle relative to the left and right tower pole heights 18A,18B and/or comprises an upper end 47A connected to the upper cross beam 388 and a lower end 47B connected to the platform beam 402.
In a further embodiment, as best seen in
Optionally, as best seen in
Optionally, similar to the embodiments previously described, a lower cross beam bracket 438 may be connected to the lower cross beam 389 on the outside of, as opposed to between, the left and right lower rods 434,436. Further, a horizontally-oriented pivot bolt 104 may optionally connect the hoist beam 32 to the lower cross beam bracket 438. The hoist beam 32 may be configured to rotate clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis 105 extending generally perpendicular to the tower pole height 18. Optionally, a horizontally-oriented pivot bolt 104 allows the hoist beam 32 to rotate clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis 105. Preferably, the rotation of the hoist beam 32 about the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis 105 allows the hoist beam forward end 34 to move upward and downward and toward and away from the tower pole 12 to allow the hoist beam 32 to move between a raised and lowered positions. Optionally, the hoist 30 may be installed on any face of a rectangular tower pole 12 including exterior faces 27A and interior faces 27B, as best shown in
Similar to the embodiments previously described, a lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt 106 may connect the hoist beam 32 to the lower cross beam bracket 438. Optionally, the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt 106 may be located rearwardly relative to the horizontally-oriented pivot bolt 104. The lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt 106 may optionally be configured to allow the hoist beam 32 to rotate clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about a lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis 107 extending generally parallel to the tower pole height 18. Preferably, rotation of the hoist beam 32 about the lower vertically-oriented pivot bolt 106 allows the hoist beam 32 to move toward and away from the lower forward cross beam 424 to allow the hoist beam 32 to move in a plane perpendicular to the tower pole height 18. In some cases, the lower cross beam bracket 438 further comprises a movable bridge 110, as described previously.
Optionally, at least after complete installation of the system, an upper cross beam bracket 440 is connected to the upper cross beam 388 on the outside of, as opposed to between, of the left and right upper rods 430, 432. Further, the upper cross beam bracket 440 may be optionally located above the lower cross beam bracket 438. Optionally, an upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt 132 connects the upper end 47A of the brace cable 46 to the upper cross beam bracket 440. Optionally, the brace cable 46 configured to rotate (in a coordinated fashion with the hoist beam 32) clockwise and/or counter-clockwise about an upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis 134 extending generally parallel to the tower pole height 18. Preferably, as with the previous embodiments, rotation of the brace cable 46 about the upper vertically-oriented pivot bolt pivot axis 134 allows the hoist beam 32 to move toward and away from the lower cross beam 389 in the plane perpendicular to the tower pole height 18.
In some cases, for example, when the hoist 30 is secured to a rectangular tower pole 12, the hoist 30 may further comprise one or more support cross beam braces 450, a rear support cross beam 452, a forward support cross beam 454, a left support rod 456, and a right support rod 458. Optionally, the a rear support cross beam 452 and a forward support cross beam 454 are secured to the rectangular tower pole 12 by having the left support rod 456 and the right support rod 458 extend between the rear support cross beam 452 and the forward support cross beam 454, wherein the left and right support rods 456, 458 are optionally configured to draw the rear support cross beam 452 toward the forward support cross beam 454 to compress the tower pole 12 between the rear support cross beam 452 and the forward support cross beam 454. Optionally, the support cross beam braces 450 extend between and secure to the forward support cross beam 454 and the lower forward cross beam 424. Without being bound to any particular theory, such configuration provides vertical support to the hoist 30 to prevent it from slipping down the tower pole 12 under load.
Optionally, i) the rear support cross beam 452 and the forward support cross beam 454 are at substantially the same height; ii) the rear support cross beam 452 and/or the forward support cross beam 454 are oriented substantially parallel to the ground and perpendicular to the tower pole; and/or iii) the rear support cross beam 452 and the forward support cross beam 454 are below the lower rear cross beam 426, lower forward cross beam 424, the upper rear cross beam 422, and/or the upper forward cross beam 420.
In addition, the system may optionally comprise include one or more features described above.
In some cases, the hoist 30 and platform 400 may allow for workers to connect to them with 100% tie-off. Thus, in some embodiments, a worker may position a tie-off cable (not shown) around a component of the hoist 30 or platform 400 for example. The hoist 30 may also be used to raise and lower a man basket 182 configured to carry a human, as shown in
The brackets that connect components to the tower poles are preferably clamps, meaning that they are wrapped tightly at least partially around the perimeter/outer wall/outer surface of the tower poles—e.g., using tension chains or straps in addition to a central bracket—and use tension to hold the brackets in place, as opposed to using bolts to connect the brackets to the towers. Preferably, the clamps are adjustable so that they may be used on towers of different dimensions. However, other configurations are possible.
Although the hoist and platform has principally been illustrated in conjunction with telecommunications towers, it will be appreciated that the design may be used with other towers. For example, if a piece of bulky heavy equipment is housed on an upper floor of a building, it may be impractical to use an elevator to remove the equipment from the building. In such a scenario, movers may choose to open a side of the building to remove the object. The hoist could be installed on a structural column near an alley or street to facilitate lowering/raising equipment.
The Embodiments of
More particularly, the hoist system 600 may be secured to a pole/leg 608 of the tower 602, as in
Referring first to the hoist system 600 of
a) securing an upper clamp bracket system 610 to the tower 602 by placing the upper clamp bracket system 610 at least partially around a pole/leg 608 of the tower 602;
b) securing a lower clamp bracket system 612 to the tower 602 by placing the lower clamp bracket system 612 at least partially around a pole/leg 608 of the tower 602;
c) securing a mast 614 to at least one of the upper and lower clamp bracket systems 610 and 612, the mast 614 comprising a top 616, a bottom 618, and a height 620 extending from the top 616 to the bottom 618;
d) providing a mast clamp bracket system 622; and/or
e) providing a hoist system 600 comprising a hoist beam 624 comprising a forward end 626, a rear end 628, a hoist beam length 630 extending from the forward end 626 to the rear end 628.
Optionally, at least after complete installation,
i) the upper and lower clamp bracket systems 610 and 612 connect the mast 614 to the tower 602, as shown in
ii) the upper clamp bracket system 610 is located above the lower clamp bracket system 612, as shown in
iii) the mast clamp bracket system 622 is located above the upper and lower clamp bracket systems 610 and 612 and connects the hoist beam rear end 628 to the mast 614 and wraps at least partially around the mast 614, as shown in
iv) the hoist beam 624 extends laterally from the mast 614 and the mast clamp bracket system 622, as shown in
v) as in prior embodiments, the hoist beam 624 further comprises at least one load-end sheave and at least one return sheave located rearwardly relative to the at least one load-end sheave (not shown in
vi) as in prior embodiments, a load line extends from below the hoist beam 624, at least partially around the at least one load-end sheave and at least partially around the at least one return sheave and then below the hoist beam (not shown in
vi) a brace cable 632 connects the hoist beam 624 to the mast 614 above the mast clamp bracket system 622 and extends at an angle relative to the tower height 606 and comprises an upper end 634 connected to the mast and a lower end 636 connected to the hoist beam 624, as shown in
vii) the mast height 620 is generally parallel to the tower height 606, as shown in
viii) the mast top 616 is above the tower top 604, as shown in
ix) the mast bottom 618 is above the tower bottom, as shown in
Optionally, at least after complete installation, the mast bottom 618 is connected to the lower clamp bracket system 612 and the lower clamp bracket system 612 bears at least part of the weight of the mast 614, as shown in
Optionally, the mast 614 is not directly attached to the upper clamp bracket system 610 but instead the upper clamp bracket 610 at least captures the mast 614, as best seen in the related embodiments of
The hoist system 600 may also include one or more features of the prior embodiments.
For example, optionally, as best seen with the prior embodiments of
Optionally, as best seen with the prior embodiments of
In still further embodiments, the present disclosure provides a related hoist system 600 that secures to the face of a guyed or self-support tower. More particularly, as shown in
a) securing a lower right clamp bracket system 702 to the right tower pole/leg 608 by placing the lower right clamp bracket system 702 at least partially around the right tower pole/leg 608, as shown in
b) securing an upper right clamp bracket system 706 to the right tower pole/leg 608 by placing the upper right clamp bracket system 706 at least partially around the right tower pole/leg 608, as shown in
c) securing a lower left clamp bracket system 700 to the left tower pole/leg 608 by placing the lower left clamp bracket system 700 at least partially around the left tower pole/leg 608, as shown in
d) securing an upper left clamp bracket system 704 to the left tower pole/leg 608 by placing the upper left clamp bracket system 704 at least partially around the left tower pole/leg 608, as shown in
e) providing a hoist beam 624 comprising a forward end 626, a rear end 628, a hoist beam length 630 extending from the hoist beam forward end 626 to the hoist rear end 628 (labelled in the related embodiment of
f) providing an upper cross beam 708 and a lower cross beam 710, as shown in
g) providing a mast 614, the mast 614 comprising a top 616, a bottom 618, and a height 620 extending from the top 616 to the bottom 618, as shown in
Optionally, at least after complete installation,
i) the lower left clamp bracket system 700 is at substantially the same height as the lower right clamp bracket system 702, as shown in
ii) the lower cross beam 710 extends between the lower left clamp bracket system 700 and the lower right clamp bracket system 702 and is oriented generally parallel to the ground and perpendicular to the tower height 606, as shown in
iii) the upper left clamp bracket system 704 is at substantially the same height as the upper right clamp bracket system 706, as shown in
iv) the upper cross beam 708 extends between the upper left clamp bracket system 704 and the upper right clamp bracket system 706 and is oriented generally parallel to the ground and perpendicular to the tower height 606, as shown in
v) the upper cross beam 708, the upper left clamp bracket system 704 and the upper right clamp bracket system 706 are located above the lower cross beam 710, the lower left clamp bracket system 702 and the lower right clamp bracket system 704, as shown in
vi) the mast 614 is connected to the lower cross beam 710 by a lower cross beam bracket 714 (which has some or all of the features as the lower clamp bracket system 612 of the prior embodiment shown in
vii) the mast height 620 extends generally parallel to the tower height 606, as shown in
viii) the hoist beam 624 is connected to the mast and extends laterally from the mast, as shown in
ix) as shown in prior embodiments, the hoist beam 624 further comprises at least one load-end sheave and at least one return sheave located rearwardly relative to the at least one load-end sheave, and a load line extends from below the hoist beam, at least partially around the at least one load-end sheave and at least partially around the at least one return sheave and then below the hoist beam (not all components shown in
x) a brace cable 632 connects the hoist beam to the mast 614 and extends at an angle relative to the tower height 606 and comprises an upper end 634 connected to the mast 614 and a lower end 636 connected to the hoist beam 624, as shown in
Optionally, at least after complete installation, at least after complete installation, the mast top 616 is above the tower top 604 and the mast bottom 618 is above the tower bottom, as shown in
The hoist system 600 may also include one or more features of the prior embodiments. For example an upper cross beam bracket 716 (which has some or all of the features as upper clamp bracket system 610 of the prior embodiment shown in
Those skilled in the art will understand how to make changes and modifications to the disclosed embodiments to meet their specific requirements or conditions. Changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. It is understood that use of the singular embraces the plural and vice versa. In addition, the steps of any method described herein may be performed in any suitable order and steps may be performed simultaneously if needed.
Terms of degree such as “generally”, “substantially”, “about” and “approximately” as used herein mean a reasonable amount of deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not significantly changed. For example, these terms can be construed as including a deviation of at least ±5% of the modified term if this deviation would not negate the meaning of the word it modifies. In addition, the steps of the methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order, including simultaneously.
| Number | Name | Date | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1547915 | Hirn | Jul 1925 | A |
| 2153803 | Jerabek | Apr 1939 | A |
| 2309769 | Hubbard | Feb 1943 | A |
| 3136519 | Spriggle | Jun 1964 | A |
| 3568797 | Hardy | Mar 1971 | A |
| 3746294 | Johnston | Jul 1973 | A |
| 6138964 | Rose | Oct 2000 | A |
| 6663065 | Whittenburg | Dec 2003 | B1 |
| 6983856 | Burks | Jan 2006 | B1 |
| 7341507 | Julian, Sr. | Mar 2008 | B1 |
| 7913980 | Cipriano | Mar 2011 | B1 |
| 10112806 | Dahl | Oct 2018 | B1 |
| 10464788 | Bonifas | Nov 2019 | B1 |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20220153561 A1 | May 2022 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62971587 | Feb 2020 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 17170177 | Feb 2021 | US |
| Child | 17589331 | US |
