CN118056054A - Scaffold tower and scaffold and use of a tower and scaffold - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention proposes a scaffolding tower (10) comprising a plurality of modules (12) hinged one above the other, each module (12) comprising a floor (14) and a column (16) hinged to the floor (14), the column (16) being additionally hinged along its length, the scaffolding tower (10) being able to adopt a folded configuration in which each module (12) is in a folded position and an unfolded configuration in which each module (12) is in an unfolded position, obtained by vertical unfolding from module to module. The invention also relates to a scaffold. The invention allows time saving and allows improved security.

Description

Scaffold tower and scaffold and use of a tower and scaffold

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a scaffolding tower, a scaffolding comprising the tower, and the use of the tower and the scaffolding.

Background

Scaffolding can be used during the creation of a construction site or temporary activity. The installation of the scaffold requires that the level be gradually installed along the length of the scaffold. The columns and bottom plate are gradually assembled one after the other until the desired height is obtained.

Traditional scaffolding installations are lengthy from preparation before delivering the various components in the field until installation and are dangerous during assembly or disassembly.

Disclosure of Invention

The object of the present invention is to provide a scaffold which is faster and safer to install.

To this end, the invention proposes a scaffolding tower comprising a plurality of modules hinged to each other, each module comprising a floor and a plurality of columns hinged to the floor, the columns being additionally hinged along the length of the columns, the scaffolding tower being able to adopt a folded configuration in which each module is in a folded position and an unfolded configuration in which each module is in an unfolded position, obtained by vertical unfolding from module to module.

According to a variant, the modules are spread apart independently of each other.

According to a variant, the module can be deployed by pulling the module vertically from the top or by lifting the last deployed module vertically.

According to one variant, each column of modules comprises a hinge of said module to the base plate and a hinge of said module to the upper module, each column further comprising a hinge along its length, which hinge is laterally offset with respect to the other hinges of the column in the deployed position of the module.

According to a variant, the conversion of the module into the folded or unfolded position can be achieved by simply lifting the module vertically.

According to one variant, the hinge along the length of the column is aligned with the other hinge of the column to the floor between the folded position of the module and the unfolded position of the module, and in the unfolded position of the module the hinge along the length of the column is laterally offset with respect to the other hinge of the column to the floor.

According to one variant, the posts of each module are connected in pairs by torsion bars, each module further comprising at least one safety rail connected to the posts of each pair of posts, the safety rail locking the hinge along the length of both of the pair of posts in the deployed position of the module and releasing the hinge along the length of both of the pair of posts in the folded position of the module.

According to one variant, in an aligned position of the hinge along the length of the post with the other hinges of the post to the base plate, rotation of the rail actuates the cam follower along the cam to a position of the rail, wherein the hinge along the length of the post is positioned laterally offset with respect to the other hinges of the post to the base plate, the position of the rail corresponding to the deployed position of the module.

According to one variant, at the post of each pair of posts connected to the rail, the rotation of the rail simultaneously actuates the cam follower along the cam.

According to one variant, the railing is immobilized with respect to the posts, which is connected to these posts by means of cam followers at the ends of the cams and by means of pins between the railing and a sleeve supporting the cams, the two posts connected to the railing, and the module being held in the deployed position.

According to a variant, in the deployed position of the module, the plurality of pins, preferably four pins, lock the hinge along the length of at least two posts and lock the railing relative to the two posts to which the railing is connected.

According to one variant, the module comprises a ladder having a hinge along its length, the ladder being rotatable about the post between a position of use of the ladder in the deployed position of the respective module and a position allowing folding of the module, the ladder being in a plane orthogonal to the axis of the hinge of the post.

According to one variant, each module further comprises at least one end safety rail rotatably mounted around the post and optionally removable.

According to one variant, the tower further comprises a vertical traction frame of the tower at the top of the upper module.

According to a variant, the floor has at least one access hatch or no access hatch.

According to a variant, the tower further comprises a connection tab between two modules in a folded position or between two adjacent modules in an unfolded position, optionally comprising a recess matching the gap between the modules.

According to one variant, the tower further comprises a telescopic extender movable between a position retracted into the base plate and a position extracted from the base plate, the base plate extension being attached to the extender in the extracted position.

According to one variant, the tower further comprises a triangulation cable, which is removable or permanent on the module.

According to a variant, the lowermost module comprises a flat bottom jack or a flange jack.

According to a variant, the module comprises a staircase hinged to the module by one end.

The invention also relates to the use of the above scaffold tower as temporary structure for a construction site, as temporary structure for an activity (such as a rapid construction bench, a private deck, or a deck support for a performance, sports activity, or scenic spot), as temporary structure for observation or measurement, as temporary support for antennas, sensors, lighting, sound equipment, cables, or advertising, etc., as temporary structure for crossing roads, as a station for working at high altitudes in the industry, as a shelf or temporary shelf for a store or warehouse, as a main scaffold tower or access tower or support tower, as a supplement or in combination with one or more conventional scaffold spans.

The invention also relates to a scaffold comprising a plurality of the above-mentioned scaffold towers, which towers are juxtaposed to each other.

According to a variant, the joint is positioned between two adjacent modules separated by a gap or angle.

The invention also relates to the use of a scaffold as described above as temporary structure for a construction site, as temporary structure for an activity (such as a rapid construction bench, a private deck, or a deck support for a performance, sports activity, or scenic spot), as temporary structure for observation or measurement, as temporary support for an antenna, sensor, lighting, sound equipment, cable, or advertisement, as temporary structure for crossing roads, as a station for working at high altitudes in the industry, as a shelf or temporary shelf for a store or warehouse, as a supplement, or in combination with one or more conventional scaffold spans.

All embodiments of the module and scaffold tower are thus all advantages transferred to the scaffold with the necessary modifications and vice versa. The various embodiments may be employed in combination or individually.

Drawings

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description, for an understanding of which reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which:

fig. 1 is an exemplary embodiment of a scaffolding tower;

figure 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of the deployment of the modules of the tower;

figure 3 shows another exemplary embodiment of the deployment of the modules of the tower;

Figure 4 shows an embodiment of the module in the deployed position;

figure 5 shows an embodiment of the module partly in a folded or unfolded position;

Figure 6 shows an embodiment of the module in a folded position;

fig. 7 shows an exemplary embodiment of the relative position of the hinge of each post;

Fig. 8 shows an exemplary embodiment of the actuation of the safety rail of the module;

fig. 9 shows an exemplary embodiment of the actuation of the safety rail of the module;

Fig. 10 shows an exemplary embodiment of the actuation of the safety rail of the module;

Fig. 11 shows an exemplary embodiment of the actuation of the safety rail of the module;

fig. 12 shows an exemplary embodiment of the fixing of the hinge of the column;

figure 13 shows an exemplary embodiment of a ladder within a module;

figure 14 shows an exemplary embodiment of a ladder within a module;

Figure 15 shows an exemplary embodiment of a ladder within a module;

Figure 16 shows an exemplary embodiment of a ladder within a module;

fig. 17 shows an exemplary embodiment of an end safety rail;

fig. 18 shows an example of a connection tab between two modules;

figure 19 shows an example of a connection tab between two modules;

Figure 20 shows an exemplary embodiment of a telescopic extender;

figure 21 shows an exemplary embodiment of a joint between two adjacent modules;

figure 22 shows an exemplary embodiment of a joint between two adjacent modules;

fig. 23 shows an exemplary embodiment of a module with stairs;

Fig. 24 shows an example of a scaffold 9 comprising a plurality of towers combined with a plurality of scaffold spans that can be established by continuously assembling a single element.

The figures are not drawn to scale. In the drawings, like elements are generally indicated by like reference numerals. In the context of this document, the same or similar elements may have the same reference numerals. Furthermore, the presence of reference numerals or letters in the various figures is not to be considered limiting, including when such numerals or letters are indicated in the claims.

Detailed Description

The invention proposes a scaffolding tower comprising a plurality of modules hinged one above the other, each module comprising a base plate and a plurality of columns hinged to the base plate, the columns being further hinged along the length of the columns. The scaffolding tower is able to adopt a folded configuration in which each module is in a folded position and an unfolded configuration in which each module is in an unfolded position, with the advantage of saving time and costs in installing and dismantling the tower, while improving the safety of the operators installing the tower.

The scaffolding is obtained by juxtaposing a plurality of scaffolding towers in a deployed configuration in which each module is in a deployed position. Scaffolding is an assembly of towers in the form of columns to each other; the towers may be arranged side by side in a deployed configuration or deployed a few meters away (e.g. in a street close to the site of use of the scaffold) and then juxtaposed to each other in the deployed configuration. The same applies to disassembly. Mounting the scaffolding by assembling the towers in series makes it possible to save time, as well as disassembly. Juxtaposing towers means that the towers and modules are side-by-side, aligned, adjacent, without having to touch; there may be space between the towers. Furthermore, the term "juxtaposed" is understood to mean that the tower and the module are adjacent, perpendicular to each other (e.g., following a build angle), leaving an empty angle between the two.

Fig. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a scaffolding tower 10 and scaffolding created by the scaffolding tower during juxtaposition of multiple towers. Scaffolding towers and scaffolding created when multiple towers are juxtaposed can be used as temporary structures for construction sites, as temporary structures for activities (such as rapid construction of a bench, private deck, or deck supports for performance, sporting activities or scenic spots, etc.), as temporary structures for observations or measurements, as temporary supports (for antennas, sensors, lighting, audio equipment, cables or advertising), as temporary structures across roads, as workstations in the industry, as shelves or temporary shelves for shops or warehouses, as main scaffolding towers or access towers or support towers, as supplements or in combination with one or more conventional scaffolding spans. Conventional scaffolding is understood to mean scaffolding assembled by assembly of tubes and connectors or with prefabricated elements ("framed" scaffolding, but in particular also "multidirectional" scaffolding), wherein the level is gradually installed over the desired length and height of the scaffolding. In other words, a conventional scaffold can be built by continuously and individually assembling items (floors, columns, connection nodes, collars, braces, stabilizers, scaffold or storage space, floor extensions, bumpers, beams, channels, etc.).

The tower 10 includes a plurality of modules 12 hinged one above the other. Six modules 12 are shown by way of example in fig. 1. It will be appreciated that the tower may include more or fewer modules 12, depending on how the tower is used. Each module 12 includes a floor 14 and a column 16. The posts allow for support of the upper module. The floor is a surface that allows the operator to move. The base plate is for example a one-piece surface with a reinforcing structure such as a frame or a surface supported by said structure. The surface may be made of metal, wood or fiberglass. The surface may be permanently attached to the structure or even removable with respect to the structure. The surface may be a single piece or consist of sub-portions, for example 20cm to 35cm wide. The module comprises components, such as columns or floor reinforcements, for example made of metal or glass fibers. It is contemplated that the floor of a module is supported by the columns of the module; preferably (and as described below but in a non-limiting manner), the module includes a floor 14 upon which posts 16 rest and are hinged by the lower ends of the posts. The module 12 may include four columns 16 to ensure stability of the tower 10. However, the invention is not limited to the presence of four columns 16 per module, as long as stability of the column 10 is ensured. The modules 12 are hinged to each other in the sense that the upper ends of the posts 16 are connected and hinged to the base plate 14 of the upper module 12. In addition, the posts 16 are hinged along the length of the posts. In other words, the posts 16 include at least one hinge 18 between the ends of the posts that allows the posts to fold. Preferably, the post includes a single hinge 18, allowing the post to be folded into two.

Fig. 1 shows a tower 10 that is capable of adopting a folded configuration (on the left side of fig. 1) in which each module 12 is in a folded position. The posts 16 are then folded into two parts along the length of the posts at hinge 18 and against the lower (module) and upper (upper module) floors by the hinges at the ends of the posts. Fig. 1 also shows the tower 10 capable of assuming a deployed configuration (on the right side of fig. 1) by being deployed vertically on a module-by-module basis, in which each module 12 is in a deployed position. The hinges 18 and hinges to the floor over the length of the column 16 allow for the expansion and folding of the module 12 and thus the tower 10.

The tower 10 is thus a one-piece, unfolded and collapsible system for which the operator does not have to perform and assemble the components of the structure. When the tower is in the collapsed or expanded configuration, the floor 14 and column 16 are already in place. Time is saved during installation and removal of the tower. The advantage is that it is easier to prepare the tower before it is installed, as there is no risk of missing the floor 14 or the column 16, as is the case with dismantling the tower. In addition, the height of the tower is prepared in advance by stacking the number of modules 12 required to reach the desired height. Furthermore, the tower in the folded configuration can be easily transported by a truck, which greatly facilitates delivery of the tower.

Fig. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of the deployment of the module 12. The composition of the scaffolding 9 can also be observed by juxtaposition of the towers 10. In practice, the modules 16 are spread out one after the other, starting with the uppermost module of the tower. A hoist such as a crane 20 (fixed or on a vehicle) allows the modules 12 to be deployed one after the other by pulling the modules 121 vertically from the top (through the top of the highest module 121). In fig. 2, the top module 121 supported by the crane is already in the deployed position and the lower module 122 is being deployed. The lower module is still in the folded position. In fig. 2, a plurality of towers 10 having three modules 12 (for example) have been in a deployed configuration. The modules are deployed by gravity, which aids in deployment. As described above, the towers may be brought into the deployed configuration in a juxtaposed manner, or placed separately and then juxtaposed once in the deployed configuration by movement of the elevator.

Fig. 3 shows an exemplary embodiment of the deployment of the module 12. The composition of the scaffolding 9 can also be observed by juxtaposition of the towers 10. Here, an elevator such as a forklift 22 deploys the module vertically in the direction of arrow 24 by lifting the last deployed module vertically. In other words, the top module 121 is first deployed, then the vehicle lifts the module vertically below to deploy the lower module, and so on, by lifting the tower from the bottom of the last deployed module. As shown in fig. 2, the modules 16 are spread out one after the other starting from the uppermost module of the tower. The modules are deployed by gravity, which aids in deployment. The tower 10, comprising for example three modules 12, is already in the deployed configuration. The second tower 10 is being deployed. As described above, the towers may be brought into the deployed configuration in a juxtaposed manner, or placed separately and then juxtaposed once in the deployed configuration by movement of the elevator. The embodiment of fig. 3 is particularly useful in situations where access from the top is not available (e.g., in a building).

To allow for vertical deployment of the modules 12, the tower 10 may include a vertical traction frame 13 of the tower 10 at the top of the upper module. Fig. 1 to 3 show a frame 13. The posts 16 are bolted in the corners of the frame 13. At the center, the lifting ring allows for gripping by the elevator (whether in the deployment mode of fig. 2 or fig. 3) preferably. The ring is positioned on the axis of the centre of gravity of the tower, which makes it possible to raise the module above and, where appropriate, to keep the tower itself vertical.

The floor 14 allows an operator to move within the tower 10. These floors have at least one access hatch so that another, higher or lower module 12 of the tower can be reached from the module 12. The floor 14 may include one or two access hatches. These floors may also be free of access hatches.

Fig. 4 shows an embodiment of the module 12 in a deployed position. In particular, the columns 16 are shown in more detail without the floor 14, as four columns by way of example. The post 16 includes a hinge 26 at its lower end that hingedly connects the post 16 to the floor 14 of the module 12. As indicated with reference to fig. 1, the posts may also be hinged along their length, for example by a hinge 18. In addition, the column 16 includes a hinge 28 at its upper end that hingedly connects the column 16 to the floor 14 of the higher module 12. In fig. 4, the module 12 (without the floor) is in the deployed position. In addition, the columns 16 of each module 12 are connected in pairs by torsion bars 30. This allows for simultaneous deployment of each pair of posts 16 and prevents the posts from twisting. This improves travel from one location of the module 12 to another.

Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of the module 12 partially in a folded or unfolded position. In this intermediate position (whether in the unfolded or folded position), the hinge 18 allows the column 16 to be folded in two and the hinges 26 and 28 allow the two bottom panels to be stacked on top of each other to achieve the configuration shown on the left side of fig. 1.

Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the module 12 in a folded position. The posts 16 are folded in two by means of the hinge 18 and the hinges 26 and 28 of each post 16 are brought closer together. In this position, the form factor of the module 12 is minimal, which allows for easy transportation and storage.

Fig. 7 shows an exemplary embodiment of the relative positions of the hinge 18, 26, 28 of each post 16 in different positions of the post 16. In the deployed position of the module 12, the hinge 18 along the length of each post 16 may be laterally offset relative to the other hinges 26, 28 of the post. In the left part of fig. 7, the column 16 is in a state corresponding to the (fully) deployed position of the module 12; it can be seen that the hinge axis represented by the point of hinge 18 is not aligned with the hinge axis represented by the point above hinge 28 and the point below hinge 26. This ensures a first safety feature of the tower 10 in the sense that by this offset or misalignment of the three hinges, the column 16 is in a stable state, allowing the operator to complete the fixing of the column and module, as will be described in more detail below. To travel from the folded position to the unfolded position of the module or vice versa, the hinges 18, 26, 28 of the column are actuated so as to pass through a condition in which the hinge 18 is aligned with the other two hinges 26, 28; the columns 16 are in an unstable state so that they can be manipulated. On the right part of fig. 7, movement of the hinge 18 to the right continues to cause folding of the post 16 (in the state of fig. 6); conversely, movement of the hinge 18 to the left continues to cause the column to deploy (and reach the condition in the left portion of fig. 7). Whether folding or unfolding the module, the column 16 experiences an unstable condition by simply lifting the module vertically. The vertical lifting is performed by a lift (which lifts the entire tower by pulling or lifts the last deployed module from below). The lifting action is performed such that the mounting and dismounting can be fixed.

Fig. 8-11 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of actuation of the safety rail of the module 12. Each module 12 may further include at least one safety rail 32 connected to the posts 16 of each pair of posts, the safety rail 32 locking the hinge 18 along the length of both posts 16 of the pair in the deployed position of the module 12 and releasing the hinge 18 along the length of both posts 16 of the pair in the folded position of the module 12. The railing 32 thus allows locking of the two posts 16 of the module in the unfolded state and release of the two posts 16 of the module in the folded state, which is sufficient to lock or release the entire module 12. Furthermore, the balustrade 32 allows this change of state of the two posts of each pair of posts, and thus of the two pairs of posts, in a synchronized manner by means of the torsion bar 30. The description of fig. 8-11 is directed to two of the pair of columns in a synchronized and reversed manner.

Fig. 8 shows the rail 32 slid into a sleeve 34 of the post 16 and into a similar sleeve 34 of the other post 16 of the pair. The sleeve 34 is fixed, for example, to stirrups 36 of the hinge 18. In the direction of arrow 36, the upper and lower portions of the column 16 connected by the hinge 18 move toward the expanded state of the column 16. The rail 32 slides in the sleeve 34 and in the sleeve 34 of the other post 16 of the pair. This is also visible in fig. 4 to 6 (in the folded state of the column 16 in the movement in the opposite direction). In the deployed position of the module 12, the two sleeves 34 are adjacent the free ends of the rails 32; in the folded position of the module 12, the two sleeves 34 move toward each other toward the center of the rail 32.

According to fig. 8, the three hinges 18, 26, 28 are aligned, because on the right part of fig. 7 the column is in an unstable state. According to fig. 9, the hinge 18 is laterally offset with respect to the other hinges 26, 28, since on the left part of fig. 7 the column is in a stable state. Starting from fig. 8, in the aligned position of the hinge 18 along the length of the post with the other hinges 26, 28 of the post 16, rotation of the rail 32 actuates the cam follower 38 along the cam 40 to a position of the rail 32 in which the hinge 18 along the length of the post is positioned laterally offset relative to the other hinges 26, 28 of the post, which position of the rail 32 corresponds to the deployed position of the module 12, as shown in fig. 9.

In fig. 8, the cam follower 38 is not in the cam 40; in fig. 9, the cam follower 38 is engaged in the cam 40 by rotational movement of the rail 32 in the direction of arrow 42. The cam follower 38 moves in the direction of arrow 44 along the cam 40 in the helical section of the cam 40.

Fig. 10 and 11 show the final movement of the cam follower 38 toward the end of the cam 40 to lock the balustrade in the deployed position of the module 12. The cam 40 comprises a straight section connecting the screw section to the locking section. According to fig. 10, the rail 32 is moved longitudinally, so that the cam follower 38 is moved in the direction of arrow 45 in the straight section. The column continues to move in the direction of arrow 46. According to fig. 11, the cam follower 38 has reached the end of the straight section of the cam 40. Rotational movement of the rail 32 in the direction of arrow 48 allows engagement of the cam follower 38 in the locking section of the cam 40. The cam follower 38 makes it possible to lock the railing 32 and thus the two posts 16 connected to the railing 32 in their unfolded and stable state.

Thus, at each pair of posts connected to the rail 32, rotation of the rail 32 simultaneously actuates the cam follower 38 along the cam 40. Thus, actuation of the balustrade 32 by a single operator makes it possible to lock or unlock the balustrade of both posts 16 and thus the balustrade of the entire module 12 in a synchronized manner. This allows the modules to be quickly placed in the unfolded position, or vice versa, to allow unlocking of the modules 12 for folding of the modules. All this is reliably performed by the elevator supporting the module.

Fig. 11 shows how the balustrade 32 and the module 12 are fixed in the deployed position. The rail 32 is fixed relative to the posts 16, which is connected to the posts by cam followers 38 at the ends of cams 40, thereby ensuring the first fixation of the rail 32 and the module 12. In addition, the rail 32 is fixed relative to the posts 16, which is connected to these posts by pins 50 between the rail 32 and the cam-supporting sleeve 34, thereby ensuring a second fixation of the rail 32 and the module 12. The pin 50 extends through an aperture 52 that passes through the sleeve 34 and the rail 32. The rail 32 held by the pin 50 is fixed relative to the sleeve 34 and thus relative to the posts 16 of the pair of posts by the cam follower 38 at the cam base 40; the railing 32 prevents the post 16 from folding back. Thus, the two posts 16, and thus all modules, connected to the balustrade are held and fixed in the deployed position. The installation is thus simple and quick, while at the same time ensuring great safety.

The disassembly method is performed in the opposite direction to the above-described assembly method, and thus is easy while securing the safety of the operator. As indicated, lifting or pulling vertically with the elevator makes it possible to fold the module in a safe manner, in particular by transitioning through the unstable state of the column.

The module may comprise one or more safety rails, preferably two safety rails. In fig. 4 and 5, a second rail 33 is provided lower than the rail 32. The rail 33 is attached to the posts 16 in each pair by sliding into a sleeve similar to sleeve 34. The pins 50 allow the rail 33 to be fixed in position relative to the post. Actuation of the rail 32 (toward the deployed or folded position of the module) also actuates the rail 33.

In the deployed position of the module 12, the plurality of pins lock the post 16 in the deployed state and lock the rail 32 relative to the sleeve 34 and thus relative to the post 16. More specifically, preferably, four pins 50 lock the hinge 18 along the length of at least two posts 16 and lock the rail 32 relative to the two posts to which the rail is connected. According to fig. 11, a pin 50 is used to lock the balustrade 32 to each post 16 of the pair of posts connected to the balustrade. Fig. 12 shows an exemplary embodiment of the hinge 18 securing a post that is not connected to the railing 32. The pin 50 locks the hinge 18 along the length of the post 16. In the steady state of the column 16 (where the hinge 18 is laterally offset relative to the hinges 26 and 28), the pin locks the stirrups 36 by passing through the apertures 54, which stirrups form the hinge 18 relative to each other. Thus, two pins 50 are used for posts connected by the rail 32 and two pins 50 are used for the other two posts not connected by the rail 32, so four pins are sufficient to secure the module in the deployed position. Other pins also make it possible to lock other components, such as the railing 33, in the unfolded position of the module.

Fig. 13-16 illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a ladder within the module 12. The module 12 may include a ladder 56 having a hinge 58 along its length (one hinge for each side rail of the ladder), the ladder 56 being rotatable about the post 16 between a use position in which the ladder 56 is in the deployed position of the respective module 12 and a position in which the module 12 is allowed to fold, the ladder 56 being in a plane orthogonal to the axis of rotation of the hinge of the post and in a position in which the module 12 is allowed to fold. In the position allowing folding, the ladder is in the plane of the rotation axis of the hinge of the column. Thus, the ladder has several advantages. The ladder 56 can be folded and unfolded simultaneously with the rest of the module. Thus, it is not necessary to add the ladder 56 at a later stage of assembling the module and tower, nor is it necessary to manage the disassembly separately. The ladder 56 also makes it possible to enhance the safety of the module 12, since in the use position the ladder prevents the hinges 18, 26, 28 from collapsing. The state of the ladder locking post changes, which further increases the fixation of the module and the tower.

In fig. 13, the lower module 12 is in a folded position and the upper module is in an unfolded position. The ladder 56 of the upper module is in a position of use in a plane orthogonal to the axis of the hinges 18, 26, 28. The ladder 56 may be secured to the rail 32 in the use position by fasteners 60. This makes it possible to avoid a change in position of the ladder 56 during its use.

In fig. 14, the ladder 56 has been repositioned. The ladder 56 is in a position that allows the module 12 to be folded. The ladder 56 has been rotated about the post 16 in the direction of arrow 62. The ladder lies in the plane of the axis of the hinges 18, 26, 28. The axis of the hinge 58 of each upright of the ladder 56 is parallel to the axis of the hinges 18, 26, 28, which allows the ladder 56 to fold simultaneously with the module, which helps to change the position of the module.

In fig. 15, the module 12 may be moved into a collapsed position after rotating the ladder according to fig. 14. The post 16 is folded in the direction of arrow 64 such that the hinge 18 moves toward the interior of the module 12. The movement of the hinges 26 and 28 allows the floor 14 of the upper module to descend in the direction of arrow 66. The rail 32 slides relative to the post 16 to which it is connected, which allows the module to be switched to the folded position. The ladder 56 in the position of fig. 14 is folded simultaneously with the rest of the module 12.

Fig. 16 shows the tower 10 in a collapsed configuration, wherein each module 12 is in a collapsed position and the ladder 56 is collapsed simultaneously with the corresponding module. In this configuration, the tower is compact and does not require separate transportation of components such as posts, floors, rails, and ladders. The tower forms an easy to transport whole.

Fig. 17 shows an exemplary embodiment of an end safety rail 68. It is contemplated that each module 12 further includes one or more end safety rails 68 rotatably mounted about the post 16. For example, for modules intended at the ends of the scaffolding 9, the end rail 68 makes it possible to fix the installation. The railing 68 may be rotatably mounted about the post so that the railing can be opened as necessary. The rail 68 is preferably sized to prevent passage of a person and is folded simultaneously with the pair of posts 16 connected by the torsion bar 30. This allows the rail 68 to operate once the module 12 has been unfolded without interfering with the folding of the module 12. The rail 68 is rotatable about the post 16 to be opened as necessary, and in the closed position the rail 68 is fixable by a pin inserted into the aperture 70 and the post 16 opposite the post 16 about which the rail 68 is rotatable.

Optionally, the end safety rail 68 is removable. The end safety rail can be mounted on the module or removed if desired. This may be the case for modules 12 that are not at the ends of the scaffold, and for those modules it is not useful to have such rails 68. To this end, the rail 68 is inclined upwards by its free edge in the direction of arrow 72, so that the edge of the rail connected to the swivel post 16 is inclined in the direction of arrow 74. This allows the upper bend 76 to be removed from the rail 68, thereby ensuring that the rail 68 rotates about the post 16. The elbow 76 may be removable from the column 16. Next, the lower bend 78 of the rail 68, which ensures that the rail 68 rotates about the post 16, may in turn be removed from the post 16 in order to completely remove the rail 68.

Fig. 18 and 19 show examples of connection tabs between two modules 12. Fig. 18 shows the tower 10 in a folded configuration, with two visible modules 12 in a folded position. The tower is ready for transport. The tower 10 includes a connecting tab 80 between the two modules in the folded position. The connection tabs ensure that the module does not unfold during transport or transit. Preferably, a connection tab 80 is provided at each of the four corners of the module 12. The fastening members 82 make it possible to fasten the connection tab between two modules and prevent deployment. The connection member 80 is, for example, a screw having a wing nut as a nut so that the connection tab 80 is easily attached or removed. The attachment tab 80 may be rotationally movable relative to the module to facilitate use of the module. The rotational movement may be about the fastening member 82.

Fig. 19 shows the tower 10 in a folded configuration, with two visible modules 12 in a folded position. The tower 10 may include a connection tab 80 between two adjacent modules 12 in the deployed position. In other words, when the towers are positioned side by side, it is preferable to attach the towers to each other. The connection tabs 80 allow two adjacent modules 12 of two different towers to be attached together. The rotational movement of the tabs allows the modules to be attached together.

The connection tab 80 may include a hole at one end thereof through which the fastening member 82 passes. Regardless of whether the fastening members 82 are tightened or loosened, the connection tabs 80 remain attached to the respective modules, which prevents loss of the connection tabs 80. For securing to another module, the connection tabs 80 may include another hole for the fastening member to pass through at the other end of these connection tabs, as shown in fig. 18. The connection tabs 80 are then fastened to the module by their two ends. The connection tab 80 may also optionally include a comb-shaped recess 81 such that the connection tab 80 may be attached to another module 12 positioned at a distance other than the gap between the two fastening member channels of the tab. Fig. 19 shows that the gap between two adjacent modules 12 is less than the length of the connection tab 80. Thus, the modules may be attached together by the fastening member 82 at one end of the tab 80 and by another fastening member of an adjacent module by positioning the fastening member 80 in the recess 81 of the connection tab 80. Thus, the connection tab 80 allows for attaching the two modules 12 together while accommodating the space between the two modules.

Fig. 20 shows an exemplary embodiment of a telescopic extender. The tower 10 may further include a telescoping extender 84 that is movable between a retracted position in the floor 14 of the respective module and a position withdrawn from the floor 14. Arrow 85 illustrates the movement of the extender 84 to the withdrawn position. The floor extension 86 may then be attached to the extender 86 in the withdrawn position. At least two extenders 84 are provided for each module to ensure stability of the extensions 86; preferably, three extenders 84 are provided to prevent the extensions 86 from buckling under the weight of a person. The telescoping nature of the extender 84 allows for the use of these extender and extensions only when needed if there is space between the tower and the building against which the tower is deployed. This also makes it possible to consider criteria when necessary. The extension 86 is placed on the floor, for example during preparation of the tower prior to installation; it is then sufficient to position the extension 86 on the extender 84 in the direction of arrow 88. The extension 86 may be rigidly connected to the extender 84 by a fastening means such as a nut, butterfly, pin, or clip. The extension 86 may also be attached to a component of the module during preparation of the tower prior to installation or disassembly to avoid dropping during deployment or folding of the module. The extension 86 may also be placed on the extender 84 during folding or unfolding of the module.

As can be seen in fig. 2, the tower 10 may also include a triangulation cable 90 that is removably or permanently located on the module. The triangulation cable 90 makes it possible to prevent the module and thus the tower from folding sideways. The cable 90 is easily screwed between the two bottom plates, for example by means of a wing nut. These cables are removable or permanently placed, depending on whether these loose cables 90 obstruct the handling of the tower in the folded position.

Independent of the flat bottom jack 92, the scaffolding 9 may comprise one or more towers 12 in addition to or in combination with one or more conventional scaffolding spans. Conventional scaffolding is understood to mean scaffolding assembled by assembly of tubes and connectors or with prefabricated elements (mainly "multidirectional", "frame" scaffolding, or even more rarely rolling or suspended/cradle scaffolding), with the level being gradually installed over the desired length and height of the scaffolding. In other words, a conventional scaffold is a scaffold that can be built up by continuous assembly of discrete elements. Conventional scaffolding spans can be created by continuously assembling discrete articles (floors, columns, connection nodes, collars, braces, stabilizers, brackets or storage spaces, floor extensions, bumpers, beams, channels, etc.). In fact, construction sites may have unique features such as sidewalks, gates, terrain slopes, etc., which complicate and delay the installation of scaffolding, as this feature will be overcome while allowing for pedestrian walkways, road walkways, etc. For this reason, and as shown in fig. 24, the scaffolding 9 may comprise a portion in the form of a conventional scaffolding 120 and as another portion of the tower 10 having features described elsewhere. In other words, the scaffolding 9 may comprise at least one tower 10 comprising a plurality of modules 12 hinged on top of each other, which can take different configurations, combined (potentially by being rigidly connected together) with one or more conventional scaffolding spans 120, i.e. with one or more scaffolding spans that can be established by continuous assembly of discrete elements (structural elements or devices). The synergy between the tower 10 and the conventional scaffolding spans makes it possible to obtain a quickly installed or dismantled scaffolding, which is suitable for different structural configurations. Such scaffolds save costs of installing and dismantling the scaffolds. Furthermore, the scaffolding ensures the safety of operators and non-worksite personnel.

For example, with respect to the tower 10, a conventional scaffolding span may be below (e.g., as a pedestrian-path-type base or compensating for elevation differences), above (e.g., as "low-grade protection", as a "half-frame" or "half-height" to adjust the height of the scaffolding, as a roof access, such as a support tower or formwork support), on the side or juxtaposed (e.g., as a multi-directional height or column or pipe and fitting, as a cross-beam, span, beam or walkway), at the rear of the scaffolding (e.g., as another row of scaffolding to facilitate movement, for storage, or as an access tower or lifting tower), at the front of the scaffolding (in the case of multiple rows, as an access walkway to a roof, or following a ramp, e.g., at a shipbuilding site or under a deck), or even as an interface between two vertically stacked towers 10.

According to fig. 16, the lowermost module 12 of the tower 10 may include a flat bottom or flange jack 92. The jack 92 is, for example, a telescopic member, for example by screwing/unscrewing, so that the flatness of the tower with respect to the ground can be adjusted. The flat bottom jack 92 allows the lowest module to be placed on the ground. Flange jacks 92 allow the lowermost module and thus the tower to be attached to the substructure. For example, the tower may be mounted on a lower scaffolding to allow people to pass along the pavement to compensate for high-level variations in terrain, or to allow the tower to be above a door. Thus, one or more towers 10, and optionally the resulting scaffolding, may be combined or associated with conventional scaffolding (as described above). For example, the tower may be built by using scaffolding suitable for roof work, or even a half frame that can accurately position the workstation at a desired height (e.g. below a gutter or at a low wall), or an access to the roof, or even a support for picking up heavy loads during use as a support tower or formwork support, covering the tower at its highest point with low pitch protection. For example, the tower may be juxtaposed with a single layer or the whole column made of a multi-directional pipe-fitting scaffold, so that one or more elevation protrusions (balconies, ledges, ornamental features, etc.) may be accommodated, which column or layer alone can take the form of a conventional floor, sometimes over an elevation obstacle or floor obstacle that in some places would prevent the installation of the column 10 (or in the case of roofing work, simply connect as few columns 10 of the scaffold 9 as possible in order to save time). For example, the tower may be erected by adding one or more rows of scaffolding at the rear, which allows for better circulation, whether with a floor space or used as a "cradle" for the tower 10/scaffolding 9, or to allow workers to better move unimpeded access to the tower between floors, so that material can be transported to the lifting tower at the correct height, or as storage space for material (tiles, paint, etc.) at the height where the material will be used. For example, the tower may be erected by adding a layer (as brackets, entrances or non-entrances) at the front of the tower, or one or more scaffolding posts, to accommodate recesses in the building or to follow a slope, such as under a shipbuilding site or bleacher, to best suit a ship or support. For example, the two towers 10 may be placed vertically overlapping by separating them from the interface in the form of a half-height of a half-frame or scaffold to more precisely achieve the desired working height to be adjusted using only the flat bottom jack 92.

Fig. 21 shows an exemplary embodiment of a junction 94 between two adjacent modules 12. The joint 94 is positioned between two adjacent modules 12 separated by a space. The joint makes it possible to connect two modules of two different towers, while there is a gap and the gap cannot be filled by a tower or module. The junction 94 then acts as a bridge or doorway. The modules may be in the same alignment but separated by a space. The joint 94 then makes it possible to extend two adjacent modules towards each other. Modules may be perpendicular to each other (e.g., follow a build angle), leaving a void angle between the two. The joint 94 then makes it possible to fill the angle between two adjacent modules.

The junction 94 (between two modules separated by a space or angle) includes the base plate 14 and the safety barrier 96. The barrier is hinged to the base plate, which allows the barrier to be folded so as to reduce its volume during transport of the junction 94. The barrier 96 includes a locking member 98 for locking the barrier to the balustrade 32 of an adjacent module to ensure the safety of an operator. In the case of the corner joint 94, two safety barriers 96 are also conceivable.

The junction 94 (between two modules separated by a space or angle) may further include: a lifting ring 102 that is retractable into the floor 14 in alignment with the top of the safety barrier 96, which is positioned between 50 ° and 70 ° relative to the floor, preferably about 60 °; and a double lift ring 104 on top of the barrier. The joint can be maintained substantially horizontal by lifting of the cable 100 attached between the two rings 102, 104 (keeping the barrier inclined) and the cable 106 attached to the ring 104.

The base plate or adjacent module 12 includes a protruding plate that supports a shaft 108 that passes into a corresponding aperture of the other of the base plate or adjacent module 12. According to fig. 21, the joint 94 (between two modules separated by a space or angle) may include plates protruding from the base plate 14 that support shafts 108 that enter corresponding apertures of adjacent modules. This makes it possible to ensure the coupling with the adjacent module in a safe manner. Further, a pin may be provided to lock the shaft 108 against extraction from the aperture. This makes it possible to ensure latching of the engagement portion 94 with the module 12.

Fig. 22 shows an exemplary embodiment of a junction 94 between two adjacent modules. The junction 94 is positioned between two adjacent modules 12 that are separated by an angle. A bottom view is shown. The joints 94 for connecting two adjacent modules 12 that are separated by an angle may include a floor 14 and a cross-beam 110 on which the floor 14 rests. This ensures the stability of the engagement portion 94 when the operator walks.

The junction 94 (between two modules separated by a space or angle) may also include an extender 84, as described above, to support the extension 86.

Fig. 23 shows an exemplary embodiment of module 12 having stairs 112. The stairs 112 allow easy movement between modules within the scaffolding tower; for example, stairs allow an operator to more easily move while carrying a load with both hands, which is not possible with the ladder 56. The stairs 112 may be attached in the unfolded module or removed prior to folding the module. Preferably, the stairs 112 are hinged to the module 12 and are placed during the unfolding of the module or follow the movement of the module during the folding of the module. For example, the stairs 112 are hinged to the module by their upper ends and can slide on the floor of the module 12 by their lower ends. Thus, the stairs 112 follow the position changes of the module during the folding or unfolding of the module. In the folded position of the module, the lower end of the stairs 112 slides out of the module. In the deployed position of the module, the lower end of the stairs 112 slides into the module. Once the module has been deployed and the stairs 112 in place, the lower ends of the stairs 112 are locked, for example by pins. The upper end of the stairs 112 is hinged to the column 16 or to the torsion bar 30, for example by means of two side rails. Furthermore, the stairs 112 allow access to the higher modules (or descent therefrom) via empty channels in the floor 14, which may or may not be blocked by hatches.

The present invention is thus a modular scaffolding solution that is expandable and easy to assemble. Time is saved in the installation, as such an installation would normally close the street. The scaffold is one-piece, using for example a folding and unfolding module at least 6m long, preferably at least 10m long. The scaffolding can reach a height of 20 meters or even 30 meters. The scaffold consists of juxtaposed towers; the scaffolding does not support stabilizing arms that extend above the ground above the surface of the floor of the module, which allows the towers to be juxtaposed in series (but may include stabilizing arms if a single tower 10 is used). The deployment of the tower is done without human intervention, but in a mechanized way, preferably by means of an elevator, so that accidents can be reduced. The fixing by means of the above-mentioned several devices is done safely by the operator thanks to the elevator. Furthermore, the tower may comprise a plurality of components (such as posts, floors, safety rails, ladders, etc., if necessary) that are already in place in the folded position of the tower and in the unfolded position, and vice versa. For example, a revolution of 10m may weigh 1000Kg to 2000Kg, which cannot be operated by an unassisted person (but may be operated by an elevator). The modules are for example greater than 2 meters wide but preferably less than 2.4 meters wide so that the modules can be carried by a 2.5 meter truck. For example, the joint may measure between 2 meters and 4 meters long.

These towers have a height suitable for the above-mentioned use and can be juxtaposed to cover a large length of use. The assembly is done in column and lateral positions, rather than in rows as is conventional. The ability to fold and unfold based on the hinge allows a very large degree of folding compactness.

The tower 10 has the ability to be preassembled and folded by means of hinges, which makes these towers as compact as possible. These towers are unfolded (and folded) by means of an elevator which raises the whole tower (from the top or bottom of the last unfolded module). All the components are assembled, the installation and the disassembly do not need to be manually operated at high places, and only the safety function is required to be actuated. The elevator is, for example, a crane, forklift, lift truck, telescopic carrier, or the like. In fact, the above-described unfolding or folding method of the modules can only be achieved by lifting each layer of modules vertically by means of an elevator, provided that lifting means are present, during installation or removal. The elevator makes both installation and removal (and thus lowering of the module and tower) safe. Thus, folding involving a sudden layer drop without being attached and secured from above by the elevator is avoided. The steps of the method for folding and unfolding modules and towers and juxtaposition of towers save time and are safe for the operator.

Claims (27)

1. A scaffolding tower (10) comprising a plurality of modules (12) hinged one to the other, each module (12) comprising

-A base plate (14), and

-A post (16) hinged to the base plate (14), the post (16) being additionally hinged along its length,

The scaffolding tower (10) is capable of adopting a folded configuration in which each module (12) is in a folded position and an unfolded configuration in which each module (12) is in an unfolded position, obtained by vertical unfolding module by module.

2. Scaffolding tower (10) according to claim 1, wherein the modules (12) are folded independently of each other.

3. Scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the modules (12) can be deployed by pulling the modules vertically from the top or by lifting the last deployed module vertically.

4. The scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each column (16) of modules (12) comprises a hinge (26) to the floor (14) of the module (12) and a hinge (28) to the floor of an upper module, each column (16) further comprising a hinge (18) along the length, the hinge being laterally offset in the deployed position of the module relative to the other hinges of the column.

5. Scaffolding tower (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the folded or unfolded position of a module is convertible by lifting the module only vertically.

6. Scaffolding tower (10) according to the previous claim, wherein,

-Between the folded position of the module (12) and the unfolded position of the module (12), the hinge (18) along the length of the column being aligned with the other hinges (26, 28) of the column to the floor, and

-In the deployed position of the module (12), the hinge (18) along the length of the column (16) is laterally offset with respect to the other hinges (26, 28) of the column to the floor.

7. Scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the columns of each module are connected in pairs by torsion bars (30), each module (12) further comprising at least one safety rail (32) connected to the columns (16) of each pair of columns, the safety rail (32) locking the hinge (18) along the length of both columns (16) of the pair in the unfolded position of the module (12) and releasing the hinge (18) along the length of both columns (16) of the pair in the folded position of the module (12).

8. Scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, when depending on claim 6, wherein in an aligned position of the hinge (18) along the length of the post with the other hinges (26, 28) of the post to the floor, rotation of the railing (32) actuates a cam follower (38) along a cam (40) to a position of the railing (32), wherein the hinge (18) along the length of the post is positioned laterally offset with respect to the other hinges (26, 28) of the post to the floor, the position of the railing corresponding to the deployed position of the module.

9. The scaffolding tower (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein at a post of each pair of posts connected to the rail, the rotation of the rail (32) simultaneously actuates a cam follower (38) along a cam (40).

10. Scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the railing (32) is immobilized with respect to the post (16), the railing being connected to the post by means of the cam follower (38) at the end of the cam (40) and by means of a pin (50) between the railing (32) and a sleeve (34) supporting the cam (40), the two posts connected to the railing and the module being held in the deployed position.

11. Scaffolding tower (10) according to one of claims 7 to 10, wherein in the unfolded position of the module (12) a plurality of pins (50), preferably four pins, lock the hinge (18) along the length of at least two posts (16) and lock the railing (32) with respect to the two posts to which it is connected.

12. The scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the module (12) comprises a ladder (56) having a hinge (58) along its length, the ladder being rotatable about the post between:

-a use position of the ladder (56) in a deployed position of the respective module (12), the ladder being in a plane orthogonal to the axis of the hinge of the column; -and a position allowing the folding of the module (12).

13. The scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, each module further comprising at least one end safety rail (68) rotatably mounted around the post (16) and optionally removable.

14. Scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a vertical traction frame (13) of the tower at the top of the upper module.

15. Scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the floor (14) has at least one access hatch.

16. The scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a connection tab (80) between two modules (12) in the folded position or between two adjacent modules in the unfolded position of two juxtaposed towers, the connection tab (80) optionally comprising a recess (81) matching the gap between the modules.

17. The scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a telescopic extender (84) movable between a position retracted into the base plate (14) and a position extracted from the base plate, a base plate extension (86) being attached to the extender (84) in the extracted position.

18. The scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising removable or permanent triangulation cables (90) on the modules.

19. Scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the lowermost module comprises a flat bottom jack or flange jack (92).

20. Scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the previous claims, wherein the module (12) comprises a staircase (112) hinged to the module by one end.

21. Use of the scaffold tower (10) according to one of the preceding claims as temporary structure for a construction site, as temporary structure for activities such as rapid construction of a bench, private deck, or deck support for performances, sports activities or scenic spots, as temporary structure for observations or measurements, as temporary support for e.g. antennas, sensors, lighting, sound equipment, cables or advertising, as temporary structure for crossing roads, as a station for working at high altitudes in the industry, as a shelf or temporary shelf for shops or warehouses, as a main scaffold tower or access tower or support tower, as a supplement or in combination with one or more conventional scaffold spans.

22. Scaffolding (9) comprising a plurality of scaffolding towers (10) according to one of claims 1 to 20, the towers being juxtaposed to each other in a deployed configuration, wherein each module (12) is in the deployed position.

23. Scaffolding (9) according to claim 22, wherein the joint (94) is positioned between two adjacent modules (12) separated by a gap or angle.

24. The scaffold (9) of claim 23, the joint further comprising a safety barrier (96) hinged to the floor (14) of the joint and having a locking member with one or more safety rails of adjacent modules.

25. Scaffolding (9) according to the previous claim, wherein,

The joint (94) comprises

A lifting ring (102) retractable into the base plate in alignment with a top of the safety barrier, the safety barrier being positioned between 50 ° and 70 ° with respect to the base plate (14), and

A double lifting ring (104) on the top of the barrier,

The joint (94) is capable of being maintained substantially horizontal by being lifted by one or more cables moored to the retractable lifting ring (102) and the dual lifting ring (104),

Or alternatively

The joint (94) positioned between two adjacent modules (12) separated by an angle comprises a floor and a cross beam (110) on which the floor rests.

26. Scaffolding (9) according to one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the scaffolding tower (10) is able to adopt a folded configuration in which each module is in the folded position and an unfolded configuration in which each module is in the unfolded position, the tower being able to be juxtaposed by changing from the folded configuration to the unfolded configuration, by positioning side by side or by moving the tower in the unfolded configuration.

27. Use of the scaffold (9) according to claims 22 to 26 as temporary structure for a construction site, as temporary structure for activities such as rapid construction of a bench, private deck, or deck support for performances, sports activities or scenic spots, as temporary structure for observations or measurements, as temporary support such as for antennas, sensors, lighting, acoustic equipment, cables or advertising, as temporary structure for crossing roads, as station for working at high altitudes in industry, as shelf or temporary shelf for shops or warehouses, as supplement or in combination with one or more conventional scaffold spans.