Abstract
A scaffolding assembly is provided. The scaffolding assembly comprises a base assembly and a support assembly. The base assembly and support assembly are associated with a first common end support. The support assembly includes a second end support and a user supporting deck extending between the first common end support and the second end support, and the base assembly includes a third end support and a second deck extending between the first common end support and the third end support. The decks may comprise movably interconnected floor members. The support assembly may be disassembled and located in a storage area defined by the base assembly for ease of transport.
Claims
1. A scaffolding assembly, comprising: a first common end support; a user support assembly, said user support assembly comprising a second end support and a first deck connected to said first common end support and said second end support in a first elevated position for supporting a user; and a base transport assembly, said base transport assembly comprising a third end support and a second deck connected to said first common end and said third end support, said base transport assembly defining a storage space between said first end support and said third end support above said second deck for receiving said second end support and said at least one first deck when said user support assembly is disconnected from said first common end support for transport.
2. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 1, wherein said first deck comprises a first rail and a second rail each connected to and extending between said first common end support and said second end support, and a floor member supported by said first and second rails.
3. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 2, wherein said floor member comprises at least a first floor member and a second floor member which are connected by at least one interconnect member.
4. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 3, wherein said first floor member comprises a first side and said second floor member comprises a second side, and wherein said at least one interconnect member has a first portion which engages said first side of said first floor member and a second portion which engages said second side of said second floor member.
5. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 4, wherein said first side of said first floor member defines a first channel and said second side of said second floor member defines a second channel and said first portion of said at least one interconnect member is positioned in said first channel and said second portion of said at least one interconnect member is positioned in said second channel.
6. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 3, wherein said first floor member is pivotable relative to said at least one first interconnect member and said second floor member is pivotable relative to said at least one second interconnect member.
7. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 5, wherein said first portion of said at least one interconnect member has a generally circular cross-sectional shape and said second portion of said at least one interconnect member has a generally circular cross-sectional shape.
8. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 2, wherein a first truss is located at a first end of said first rail and a second truss is located at said second end of said first rail, said first truss comprising a movable pin for fixing a position of said first truss to said second end member and said second truss comprising a movable pin for fixing a position of said second truss to said second end member.
9. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 1, wherein said second deck comprises a third rail and a fourth rail each connected to and extending between said first common end support and said third end support, and at least one floor member supported by said third and fourth rails.
10. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 1, wherein said first common end support comprises a first post and a second post, said second end support comprises a third post and a fourth post, and said third end support comprises a fifth post and a sixth post.
11. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 4, wherein said user support assembly further comprises a seventh post connected to said first post of said first common end support and extending a height thereof and an eighth post connected to said second post of said second common end support and extending a height thereof.
12. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 11, further comprising a gate movably connected to at least one of said seventh post and said eighth post.
13. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 11, wherein said user support assembly further comprises a first side rail removably connected to and extending between said second end support and said seventh post and a second side rail removably connected to and extending between said second end support and said eighth post, said first and second side rails positioned above said first deck.
14. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 13, further comprising at least one removable support panel connected to said first and second side rails.
15. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 13, wherein said first side rail has a first end and a second end, a first pin extending outwardly from said first end generally parallel to a length of said first side rail and a second pin extending outwardly from said second end generally parallel to said length of said first side rail, said first and second pins positioned in mating apertures in a post of said second end support and one of said seventh and eighth posts.
16. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 15, further comprising a first yoke located at said first end and a second yoke located at said second end of said first side rail, said first and second yokes each comprising a first portion extending outwardly from said first side rail parallel to said length thereof and a second portion extending perpendicular to said first portion to define a post receiving slot, said post receiving slot at said first end of said first side rail rotatably receiving said post of said second end support and said post receiving slot at said second end of said first side rail rotatable receiving said seventh or eighth post.
17. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 16, further comprising a first pin extending through said first yoke and into engagement with said post of said second end support to prevent rotation of said first side rail relative to second end support.
18. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 15, wherein said first side rail has a first portion and a second portion which are telescopically connected.
19. The scaffolding assembly in accordance with claim 1, wherein said first common end support, said second end support and said third end support are supported by wheels, permitting said user support assembly and said base assembly to be rollably transported.
Description
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a scaffold assembly of the disclosure, the scaffold assembly having a base assembly and a user support assembly;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a scaffold assembly of the disclosure;
[0013] FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a deck floor in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;
[0014] FIG. 5A-5C illustrate embodiments of interconnection members for a deck floor;
[0015] FIGS. 6A-6C illustrate aspects of the interconnection of the deck floor illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4;
[0016] FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate aspects of a connection of a deck floor to a deck support of the scaffold assembly;
[0017] FIG. 8 illustrates use of a base assembly to transport a portion of a user support assembly of the scaffold assembly illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates a strap connection of a portion of the base assembly illustrated in FIG. 8;
[0019] FIGS. 10-12 illustrate aspects of a deck rail of the scaffold assembly;
[0020] FIG. 13 illustrates a spring clip in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 14 illustrates a supporting wheel of the scaffold assembly illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0022] FIGS. 15A-B, 16-A-B and 17A-B illustrate connecting pins in accordance with different embodiments of the disclosure;
[0023] FIGS. 18-20, 21A-B, 22A-B and 23-24 illustrate aspects of rail members of the scaffold assembly;
[0024] FIG. 25 illustrates aspects of a deck supported by rail members in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure;
[0025] FIGS. 26 and 27 are a perspective views other scaffold assemblies in accordance with the disclosure;
[0026] FIG. 28 is an exploded view of the scaffold assembly illustrated in FIG. 26;
[0027] FIGS. 29-31 illustrate aspects of rail members of the scaffold assembly illustrated in FIG. 28;
[0028] FIGS. 32-33 illustrate a gate member in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure;
[0029] FIGS. 34A-B and 35 illustrate aspects of a deck rail in accordance with an aspect of the disclosure; and
[0030] FIG. 36 is a cross-sectional view of the scaffold assembly taken in the direction of 36-36 in FIG. 26.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0031] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough description of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.
[0032] As employed herein, the word coupled shall mean connected together either directly or via one or more intermediate parts or components.
[0033] As employed herein, the word number shall mean one or an integer greater than one (i.e., a plurality).
[0034] Aspects of the invention comprise a scaffold, elements of a scaffold, and a scaffolding assembly, as well as methods of assembling, storing, and transporting the same. As such, in some cases the invention is referred to as a collapsible scaffolding assembly or a transportable scaffolding assembly. Such terms are not, however, intended to limit the scope of the invention.
[0035] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a scaffolding assembly 2, in accordance with one non-limiting embodiment of the disclosed concept. As shown, the scaffolding assembly 2 includes a base assembly 100 and a support assembly 200, where the base assembly 100 and the support assembly 200 are coupled to one another. As described in more detail below, in one embodiment, the base assembly 100 may be used as a storage and/or transport platform for the scaffold of the invention when the scaffold is in its unassembled state. In some embodiments, the scaffold assembly 200 may not include the base assembly 100. Further, in some embodiments, the scaffold assembly 200 and the base assembly 100 may be independent elements which can be removably coupled.
[0036] Continuing to refer to FIG. 1, the base assembly 100 and the support assembly 200 each include one or more decks, such as defined by one or more deck or floor panels 102 and 202. In some embodiments, these panels may be removably connected to one another to form an integrated support. For example, the support assembly 200 may include a number of interconnect members 204 for connecting the floor panels 202 together, as will be discussed below in connection with FIGS. 3-6C. In operation, the floor panels 102 and 202 provide a relatively strong surface on which workers can stand and/or to support other elements.
[0037] As shown in FIG. 1, in one configuration, the scaffolding assembly 2 comprises one or more first common supports, such as a first common end support 4. The support assembly 200 comprises a second end support 8 and the support deck 202, where the base deck 202 is configured to be connected to and supported by the first common end support 4 and the second end support 8. The base assembly 100 comprises a third end support 6 and the deck 102, where the deck 102 is configured to be connected to and supported by the first common end support 4 and the third end support 6.
[0038] In one configuration, the first common end support 4 comprises first and second posts or uprights 110, 116, and the third end support comprises first and second posts or uprights 112, 114. A number of strap members 120 and 122 and 124 and 126 extend between and are coupled to the posts 110 and 112 and 114 and 116 to join them. The rails and straps may be arranged in various configurations. In one embodiment, the posts 110 and 112 and 114 and 116 are oriented vertically (when assembled) and are spaced from one another and generally define corners of the base assembly 100. The strap members 120 and 122 and 124 and 126, and/or other frame members, may be oriented generally horizontally and be supported by connection to one or more of the posts (such as to extend between corresponding pairs of the posts). The base deck 202 may be supported by one or more deck rails 121, such as which are connected to and extend between posts of the first common end support 4 and the third end support 6.
[0039] In one embodiment, the base assembly 100 may be movably supported. For example, located at a bottom end of the posts 110 and 112 and 114 and 116 may be a corresponding wheel or caster 130 and 132 and 134 (only three of the four wheels or casters are shown in FIG. 1. These wheels or casters may be mounted in various manners, such as via a stud which extends into the bottom of the rail, by a bracket attached to the rail, etc. One or more of the wheels or casters may include a brake, such as for locking the wheel or a roller of the caster to prevent it from rolling.
[0040] So configured, the base assembly 100 defines a storage space which is located between the first common end support 4 (and posts 110, 116) and the third end support 8 (and posts 112, 114), and above the base deck 102. This space may be used to house components of the support assembly 200, such as when the support assembly is at least partially disassembled for transport, as described in more detail below.
[0041] As shown in FIG. 1, the support assembly 200 also includes a plurality of framework supports. In one embodiment, the support assembly 200 includes a number of vertical supports and a number of horizontal supports which extend between the vertical supports, such as to define a raised support structure for at least one deck, and one or more guard rails. In one embodiment, the vertical supports may comprise posts. The posts may be generally located at corners of the support assembly 200, where the posts at each end are connected by one or more end supports and posts at opposing ends are connected by horizontal supports, such as top cross-rails, trusses and intermediate cross-rails. In one configuration, the top and intermediate cross-rails, as well as the trusses, have an adjustable length, thus allowing the length of the support assembly 200 to be changed and to allow the support assembly to be dis-assembled into a smaller configuration.
[0042] As indicated, the support assembly 200 comprises a second end support 8, such as comprising posts 210 and 216 (post 216 is not visible in FIG. 1, but see FIG. 2). The support assembly may also comprise posts 212 and 214 which are connected to the first common end support 4, and thus the posts 110 and 116, so as to essentially form an integral post. In other embodiments, the posts might be separate from one another, such as where the posts 212 and 214 are full height, thus allowing the base assembly 100 and the support assembly 200 to be connected (such as by joining the posts), but also disconnected and still allowing each end of the base and support assemblies to be supported. The configuration of the invention is advantageous because the use of a common end support 4 allows the base assembly 100 and support assembly 200 to both be supported, but using fewer members (and thus less material and thus taking up less space for shipping and reducing the complexity of assembly).
[0043] The support assembly 200 may also include a number of horizontal rails (e.g., intermediate horizontal rails 220 and 224, and top horizontal rails 222 and 226) extending between and being coupled to the vertical posts 210, 212, 214, and 216. It will be appreciated that the horizontal rails 220 and 222 and 224 and 226 are configured to function as safety rails and/or handrails, such that when workers are standing on the floor panels 202, the horizontal rails 220 and 222 and 224 and 226 function to keep them corralled on the support assembly 200 so that they do not fall off. Moreover, the support assembly 200 may further include a number of bottom rails (only one of the bottom rails 228 is shown in FIG. 1, but see the other bottom 229 in FIG. 2) extending between and being coupled to the vertical posts 210, 212, 214, and 216 and being configured to support the floor panels 202 so that workers can stand in the support assembly 200.
[0044] As with the base assembly 100, the support assembly 200 may be movably supported. A wheel or caster 230 and 232 may be coupled to each the posts 210 and 216.
[0045] Also shown are a corresponding number of truss members 240 and 242 and 244. The truss members 240 and 242 and 244 function to couple the vertical posts 110 and 116 and 210 and 212 and 214 and 216 to each other as well as to the bottom rail 228.
[0046] FIG. 2 shows another view of the scaffolding assembly 2 of FIG. 1, but is shown with the floor panels 202 exploded in order to expose hidden features. It will be appreciated that the bottom rails 228 and 229 are configured to support the floor panels 202.
[0047] Also shown in FIG. 2, it will be appreciated that the support assembly 200 further includes a gate 250 pivotably coupled to the vertical post 214. The gate 250, which may be durable enough for an adult to climb on, may be opened and closed via movement of a locking member 252, which optionally may be spring-loaded, into and out of an opening in the vertical post 212.
[0048] FIG. 3 shows an isometric view of the floor panels 202 and the interconnect members 204 of the support assembly 200. FIG. 4 shows a partially exploded isometric view of the floor panels 202 and the interconnect members 204 of FIG. 3. As shown, each of the interconnect members 204 has length similar to or the same as a length of the floor panels 202, and is configured to join an adjacent two of the floor panels 202 together. FIGS. 5A, 5B, and 5C show various cross-sectional profiles of corresponding interconnect members 204-1 and 204-2 and 204-3 which may be substituted for the interconnect members 204 depicted in FIG. 4.
[0049] To better illustrate the coupling and collapsibility of the floor panels 202, reference is made to FIG. 6A - 6C. In general, pairs of floor panels 202 are configured to be joined together by a single interconnect member 204. In a preferred embodiment, the interconnection permits the floor panels 202 to move relative to one another, such as by pivoting or rotating independently of the other floor panel. In one embodiment, the floor panels 202 include a channel for accepting a portion of the interconnect member 204, preferably in a sliding fashion. Thus, in one embodiment, the floor panels 202, which may be made of rubber or silicon, have elongate channels which are located along at least one side edge thereof, for accepting therein a portion of a interconnect member 204.
[0050] In the example which is illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6C, four of the floor panels 202 are joined (e.g., coupled) by three of the interconnect members 204 (which join corresponding pairs of the floor panels 202). Referring to the enlarged view of FIG. 6C, in one example the interconnect member 204 includes a substantially planar body portion 204C and a pair of securing members 204A and 204B (such as a head portion) extending outwardly from the body portion 204C. In one example, the securing members 204A and 204B, which may be cylinder-shaped, are configured to be inserted into openings 202A, which optionally may also be cylinder-shaped, of adjacent floor panels 202. In one embodiment, the interconnect members 204 have a length which is substantially the same as the length of the floor panels 202. However, the interconnect members 204 might be shorter (for example, shorter interconnect members might be inserted at each end of the floor panels 202 rather than extending along the length thereof). In other embodiments, the floor panels 202 might themselves define interconnecting elements, such as where the edge of one floor panel defines a head which engages a slot in an edge of an adjacent panel. The configuration of the invention, however, has the advantage that the floor panels 202 can be joined in any orientation (without having to match head and slot edges of corresponding panels).
[0051] This hinge between adjacent floor panels 202 allows a single one of the floor panels 202 to be pulled or pushed from ends and/or from the bottom, in order to allow access to the frame to pass materials up through the floor panels 202, or to climb up the frame to gain access to the platform in a safe way. For example, typically the user climbs up and over the top of the frame or swings around the side of the frame if a gate is not available).
[0052] It will be appreciated that the engagement between the receiving portions which define the openings 202A and the securing members 204A and 204B secures the two adjacent floor panels 202 together. More specifically, these two floor panels 202 cannot slide with respect to each other and/or be pulled apart due to this connection. Additionally, because the interconnect members 204 extend an entire length of the two adjacent floor panels 202, the disclosed connection is thus secure along the entire length. In one example, the interconnect member 204 can be held in place using a staking process, screw, or a friction fit process.
[0053] Continuing to refer to FIG. 6C, as shown, the floor panel 202 further has a number of openings 202B for receiving a coupling member (e.g., without limitation, bolt 206 or other fastener) therethrough. In one example, the bolt 206 provides additional strength to the support assembly 200 and is also prevented from being disengaged, such as from the wind, an uneven load on the floor panels 202, or an uneven surface. It will be appreciated that each of the floor panels 202 of the support assembly 200, as well as the floor panel 102 (FIG. 1) of the base assembly 100 (FIG. 1) have such an opening on each opposing side, such that at least one coupling member (e.g., the bolt 206) can extend through each opposing side of the floor panels 102 and 202 and be coupled to, optionally threadably coupled to, horizontal rails of the base assembly 100 and the support assembly 200. See, for example, the bottom rails 228 and 229 in FIG. 2, each of which has a number of thru holes, optionally tapped through holes, for receiving a number of coupling members (e.g., the bolt 206) after the bolt 206 and other bolts have passed through the floor panels 202 on each opposing side. As a result, the floor panels 102 and 202 are reliably (and removably) secured to the bottom rails 228 and 229 (and the corresponding support rails of the base assembly 100, which as shown extend between the posts 110 and 114, and the posts 112 and116) and thus provide a stable surface on which individuals can walk and be supported. Further, for the support assembly 200, the connection between the interconnect members 204 and the floor panels 202 allow the floor panels 202 to be reliably coupled to each other, in addition to being secured to the bottom rails 228 and 229.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 6A, when the floor panels 202 are coupled together, the interconnect members 204 provide hinge points about which the floor panels 202 can pivot with respect to each other. In this manner, this portion of the scaffolding assembly 2 is advantageously able to be collapsed in a streamlined manner. For example, during non-use time, in the example of FIG. 6A, workers can break the floor panels 202 down so that the overall footprint of the four panels 202 is the same width and length as a single one of the floor panels 202. This makes the entire floor of the support assembly 200 able to be stored in a relatively simple and reliable manner.
[0055] FIGS. 7A and 7B show a portion of the scaffolding assembly 2. As shown, the bolts 206 are extended through the floor panels 202 as well as through thru holes in the side rail 228, in order to reliably secure the floor panels 202 to the side rail 228. Moreover, clip members 207 are shown, each which includes a plurality of segments 207-1 and 207-2 and 207-3 and a number of bends 207-4 and 207-5 extending between the segments 207-1 and 207-2 and 207-3. The clip members 207 preferably have the bends 207-4 and 207-5 so that an end thereof can extend through an aperture of one of the posts, and the other end can be pivoted so that it extends around the post in order to lock the clip member 207 so that it can't slide backwardly out of engagement.
[0056] Preferably, at least the support assembly 200 is collapsible, such as for storage and transport. Thus, aspects of the invention may comprise assembling, dis-assembling, storing and/or transporting the support assembly. In one embodiment, the support assembly 200 can be disassembled and the components thereof may be associated with the base assembly 100, which essentially forms a movable storage cart. This allows a user to reduce the size of the scaffolding assembly 2 and also store and move the scaffolding assembly 2.
[0057] FIG. 8 shows an isometric view of the scaffolding assembly 2 in a partially collapsed position. As shown, floor panels 202 from the support assembly 200, as well as the gate 250 are each de-coupled and positioned internal with respect to the side rails 120 and 126. It will be appreciated that other components from the support assembly 200 (e.g., the posts 210 and 212 and 214 and horizontal rails 220 and 222 and 224 and 226 and 228 and 229, the truss members 240 and 242 and 244) are likewise configured to be de-coupled and stored interior with respect to the side rails 120 and 126, such that the entire scaffolding assembly 2 can quickly and reliably be collapsed and moved around a job site (e.g., via the casters or wheels 130 and 132 and 134) or stored in a truck.
[0058] In order to permit elements of the scaffold assembly 2 to be assembled and dis-assembled, various of the elements thereof may be connected by releasable connectors. Such connectors might comprise interconnecting elements of the elements of the scaffold assembly 2, or might comprise removable fasteners (nuts and bolts, screws, etc.). However, in order to facilitate faster and easier connection and disconnection, removable pins or the like may be used. For example, FIG. 9 shows a portion of the scaffolding assembly 2 (FIG. 1). As shown, coupled to the strap member 120 of the base member 100 is a lanyard member 269 and a locking pin 270 (also shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, discussed below) coupled to the lanyard member 269. The lanyard member 269 extends through a hole in the strap member 120 in order to couple the locking pin 270 to the rest of the scaffolding assembly 2, thereby minimizing and/or preventing the locking pin 270 from being misplaced. The use of the locking pin 270 allows the strap member 120 to be easily connected to the posts 110 and 112 and 114 and 116, including in different positions (when apertures are provided in the posts at different positions), without the risk of losing nuts and bolts, having to tighten and loosen fasters, etc. (e.g. the pins form quick connections).
[0059] FIG. 10 shows an enlarged view of the horizontal rail 228 and the associated truss members 240 and 244, which are preferably coupled to ends of the horizontal rail 228. As shown in FIG. 10, the horizontal rail 228 can generally be stated as including a first component 228-1 and a second component 228-2 coupled to the first component 228-1. In one example the first and second components 228-1 and 228-2 are each coupled to each other at a first end, and also coupled to a corresponding one of the truss members 240 and 244 at an opposing end. In this manner, the horizontal rail 228 can be broken into two parts, such as for storage and transport in the base assembly 100 and for shipping and storage when selling the scaffold assembly 2.
[0060] Continuing to refer to FIG. 10, the horizontal rail 228 may optionally further include an internal beam 228-3 that is preferably welded or otherwise joined to each of the first and second components 228-1 and 228-2, and also inserted into the horizontal rail 228 during assembly. As shown, a plate 228-4 of the horizontal rail 228 is preferably welded or otherwise joined to the internal beam 228-3 in order to prevent spread under load and to allow for a spring-loaded pin, discussed below, to engage an inserted beam extension.
[0061] Additionally, in one example, the truss member 244 is a unitary component made from a single piece of material (e.g., a punched metallic member made from, for example, steel). As a result, it will be appreciated that the number of parts associated with making existing truss members is substantially reduced by employing the truss member 244. This results in savings in the form of a reduction of process time to punch as well as assembly times associated with existing units. The truss member 240 also preferably has a cavity 240-1 in order to allow a locking pin to be placed into a handrail system, which may allow the horizontal rail 228 to be welded to the truss member 244 and add additional strength. Moreover, there may be an additional hole for pin storage when not in use.
[0062] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of the truss member 244. As shown, the truss member 244 includes a spring-loaded locking pin (e.g., optionally U-shaped) 244-2. This locking pin 244-2 has ends which are designed to engage corresponding apertures in the posts of the support assembly 200 (where the position of the truss member 244 may thus be changed based upon which set of apertures the pin engages). Referring to FIG. 12, the locking pin 244-2 has a number of grooved portions 244-3 and 244-4 for preventing or minimizing the likelihood that the locking pin 244-2 will become disengaged during use. Vibration, uneven working surfaces, torsional forces being applied to a structure, and movement of tools and materials may all be a danger associated with existing smooth locking pin assemblies, a danger which is obviated via the pin 244-2 and associated grooved portions 244-3 and 244-5. In one example, the width of the grooved portions 244-3 and 244-4 is about equal to a gauge of the shelf bracket and square tube upright.
[0063] FIG. 13 shows an isometric view of a spring clip 133, and FIG. 14 shows an isometric view of the wheel or caster 134 coupled to a portion of the post 114. As shown in FIG. 13, the spring clip 133 includes a biasing member 133-1 comprising a body with a pair of legs, and one or more protrusions, such as a pair of protrusions 133-2 and 133-3, where a protrusion extends outwardly from each leg of the biasing member 133-1. In one example the body of the spring clip 133 is coupled to the wheel or caster and extends upwardly into a channel in the post (such as post 114). The spring clip 133 is inserted until the protrusions 133-2 and 133-3 extend into mating detents or apertures in the post, thus locking the caster in place (in a preferred embodiment, the protrusions extend through apertures in the post, whereby a user may press inwardly on the protrusions from the outside of the post in order to release the spring clip 133 from the post for disassembly. It will be appreciated that the wheels or casters 130 and 132 and 230 and 232 of FIG. 1 may all also be similarly coupled to their corresponding rails via spring clips. The spring clip 133 eliminates a traditional pin which is often lost and/or damaged. The spring clip 133 also may eliminate a rattling sound associated with moving traditional scaffolding assemblies (not shown).
[0064] FIGS. 15A-17B show various locking pins 270 and 272 and 274 employed with the disclosed concept, wherein each locking pin 270 and 272 and 274 is configured similar to the clip member 207 (FIG. 7A), e.g, with segments and bends to allow for desired engagement. The locking pins 270 and 272 and 274 can be cast, screw machine parts, or wire formed. Each of the locking pins 270 and 272 and 274 preferably has a crimped lanyard that is attached to a portion of the scaffold assembly 2, such as using a wire cable. It will be appreciated that other locking pins are contemplated by the disclosed concept, provided said locking pins have a crimped configuration. The locking pins are designed to releasably connect two or more portions of the scaffold assembly 2 via engagement of mating apertures in those components, where when the locking pin is engaged, it will not unintentionally disconnect, but instead can only be disconnected (preferably without the need for a tool, however), by a user's specific engagement therewith. In one embodiment, such pins may have a first portion which is designed to be laterally extended into an opening while a second portion (which is offset from the first portion) is in a first position, and where after insertion, the position of the pin can be changed (such as by rotation) to cause the second offset portion thereof to engage another member (such as to abut or extend around) to effectively lock the pin and prevent the first portion from moving laterally back out of the opening.
[0065] FIG. 18 shows an isometric view of the intermediate rail 220 of FIG. 1, and FIG. 19 shows a front view of a portion of the intermediate rail 220. As shown in FIG. 18, the intermediate rail 220 includes a tubular member 220A and an interior member 220B configured to be movably located within an interior of the tubular member 220A. The interior member 220B is preferably configured to mount at a plurality of locations with respect to the tubular member 220A, in order to allow for varying lengths of the scaffolding assembly 2 (FIG. 1).
[0066] In one example, each of the tubular member 220A and the interior member 220B has an end portion having a corresponding pair of spring-loaded pins 220A-1 and 220A-2 and 220B-1 and 220B-2 each configured to allow the intermediate rail 220 to couple to both the vertical posts 210 and 212. In one example, the first pins 220A-1 and 220B-1 are longer than the second pins 220A-2 and 220B-2 in order to make installation beneficially streamlined. Furthermore, in one example, the pins 220A-1 and 220A-2 and 220B-1 and 220B-2 each preferably have grooves, optionally annular-shaped grooves, in order to reduce the probability of them moving or being released under a load.
[0067] FIG. 20 shows an isometric view of the top rail 222, also depicted in FIG. 1. As shown, the top rail 222 includes a tubular member 222A and an interior member 222B located at least partially in an interior of the tubular member 222A, and configured to mount at a plurality of locations with respect to the tubular member 222A in order to allow the scaffolding assembly 2 (FIG. 1) to have a plurality of different lengths. In one example, the tubular member 222A and the interior member 222B each have a corresponding U-shaped yoke portion 222A-1 and 222B-1 located at an end portion thereof in order to prevent spreading at a top of the vertical posts 210 and 212. The yoke portions 222A-1 and 222B-1 are configured to be locked in place using pins, which may be attached to the scaffolding assembly 2 (FIG. 1). It will be appreciated that both of the intermediate rails 220 and 224, and the top rails 222 (FIGS. 18) and 226 (FIG. 20) are configured to be made from a similar or the same material as the vertical posts 210 and 212 in order to prevent special materials from being purchased, thus driving down a cost of the scaffolding assembly 2.
[0068] Referring to FIGS. 21A and 21B, one half of the scaffolding assembly 2 may be longer (e.g., slightly longer) in order to allow the scaffolding assembly 2 to be used as a slide hammer to get the pins to engage. FIGS. 21A and 21B show a plastic sleeve bearing 224A-1 used to keep the scaffolding assembly from coming apart, e.g., via a biasing member 224B-1 for insertion into the intermediate rail 224. Similarly, FIGS. 22A and 22B show another embodiment of a plastic sleeve bearing 224A-2 and a biasing member 224B-2, as well as a biasing member pin 224C-2 for use with the intermediate rail 224.
[0069] FIG. 23 shows a side view of the intermediate rail 220, FIG. 24 shows a side view of a portion of the tubular member 220A of the intermediate rail 220, and FIG. 25 shows an isometric view of a portion of the scaffolding assembly 2 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 23, each of the tubular member 220A and the interior member 220B has a corresponding slot 220A-3 and 220B-3 in order to allow a panel, optionally a metallic panel such as aluminum, to be placed on it as a shelf. The slots 220A-3 and 220B-3 allow slight movement of the shelf, however it should make contact with the grooves in the pin to prevent it from easily being pulled out. See also, for example, FIG. 25, which shows the floor panel 202 coupled to the tubular member 220A of the intermediate rail 220 via the slot 220A-3. It will also be appreciated that the other opposing intermediate rail 224 may configured similar to the intermediate rail 220, and be similarly coupled with respect to the floor panel 202. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 24, the location of the slot 220A-3 is placed on the same side of the tubular member 220A as the pins 220A-1 and 220A-2. When the pins 220A-1 and 220A-2 are inserted into the vertical post 210 through thru holes in the vertical post 210, the longer pin 220A-1 is configured to be on top of the shorter pin 220A-2, and should engage the vertical post 210 first, at which point the entire intermediate rail 220 can be swung into place. By having the pins 220A-1 and 220A-2 be two different lengths, installation is advantageously simplified. For example, trying to line up and install two pins into a vertical rail at the same time is known to be relatively difficult. By having the single longer pin 220A-1, the bottom and shorter pin 220A-2 is configured to be rocked into place.
[0070] FIGS. 26-28 are different views of another scaffolding assembly 302 another non-limiting embodiment of the disclosed concept. As shown in FIG. 26, the scaffolding assembly 302 includes a base assembly 400 and a support assembly 500 coupled to the base assembly 400, and each is constructed similar to and functioning similar to a corresponding one of the base assembly 100 and the support assembly 200, respectively. The scaffolding assembly 302 also includes other similar components as the scaffolding assembly 2 (FIG. 1), including horizontal rails (e.g., top rails 522 and 526, intermediate rails 520 and 524, and bottom rails 528 and 529), as well as a gate 550.
[0071] Referring to FIG. 26, the support assembly 500 includes a number of panels 502 each configured to be supported by the framework of the support assembly 500. It will be appreciated that the panels 502, which may be made of wood or a suitable alternative material, may be configured different than and/or joined in a different manner than the deck or floor panels 202 (FIG. 1). It will also be appreciated that the panels 502 may or may not be joined to one another.
[0072] As shown in FIG. 28, the support assembly 500 further includes a bottom end support 510 and a top end support 511 coupled to the bottom end support 510. In one example, each of the end supports 510 and 511 are located opposite and distal with respect to the base assembly 400, and function to provide structural support to an end of the support assembly 500, and also to help keep individuals corralled inside the support assembly 500 when using the scaffolding assembly 302. Each of the end supports 510 and 511 includes a pair of posts 510-1 and 510-2 and 511-1 and 511-2, and a corresponding number of interconnect members 510-3 and 510-4 and 511-3 and 511-4. The interconnect members 510-3 and 510-4 each extend between and are coupled to each of the posts 510-1 and 510-2. The interconnect members 511-3 and 511-4 each extend between and are coupled to the each of the posts 511-1 and 511-2.
[0073] In one example, the posts 510-1 and 510-2 are each coupled to and collinear with a corresponding one of the posts 511-1 and 511-2 so as to form a continuous post, thus providing support to the support assembly 500. Additionally, each of the end supports 510 and 511 are preferably removably coupled to the rest of the support assembly 500, thus making collapsibility of the entire scaffolding assembly relatively streamlined.
[0074] As with the previous embodiment, as shown in FIG. 28, an important aspect of the invention is the configuration of the scaffold assembly 302 from a plurality of individual elements which can be disassembled from one another. This allows the scaffold assembly 302 to be broken down to a smaller configuration (including dimension of elements), such as for storage and transport of the support assembly 500 in the associated base assembly 400, and for the entire scaffold assembly 302 to be broken down into a smaller configuration for boxing and shipping (such as when being sold in the marketplace).
[0075] FIGS. 29-31 show various views of the intermediate rail 520 (FIGS. 26-28), with FIG. 30 shown with a clip member 521 exploded from the intermediate rail 520, in order to appreciate how the clip member 521 facilitates coupling of the intermediate rail 520 to a corresponding one of the vertical posts (shown but not labeled in FIGS. 26-30) of the scaffolding assembly 302. More specifically, the example clip member 521 depicted in FIG. 30 includes four optionally linear segments 521-1 and 521-2 and 521-3 and 521-4, and three optionally 90 degree bends 521-5 and 521-6 and 521-7 extending between the segments 521-1 and 521-2 and 521-3 and 521-4. In one example, the first segment 521-1 has a threaded end portion for receiving a nut or other fastening member after extending through a yoke portion 520A-2. Additionally, as shown, the bends 521-5 and 521-6 and 521-7 advantageously allow the first segment 521-1 to extend through the aperture of the yoke portion 520A-2, and provide that an opposite end (e.g., via the fourth segment 521-4) can be pivoted so that it extends around a post or other element to lock the clip member 521 so that it cannot slide backwardly out of engagement. The clip member 528-5, discussed below, is also similarly configured with bends to allow for desired engagement with other elements of the scaffolding assembly 302.
[0076] Moreover, and referring to FIG. 29, intermediate rail 520 can generally be stated as including a tubular member 520A and an interior member 520B partially movably located in an interior of the tubular member 520A. As shown in FIGS. 30 and 31, the intermediate rail 520 is constructed similar to the intermediate rail 220 (FIG. 18), but instead includes pins 520A-1 and 520B-1, yoke portions 520A-2 and 520B-2, and slots 520A-3 and 520B-3. The pins 520A-1 and 520B-1 have corresponding grooved portions and are configured to extend through openings in the opposing vertical posts. Subsequently, the yoke portions 520A-2 and 520B-2 are configured to further couple the intermediate rail 520 to the vertical posts, and facilitate coupling via openings through which clip members (e.g., the clip member 521) extend. It will be appreciated that other horizontal rails of the scaffolding assembly 302 may be similarly constructed and similarly coupled to opposing vertical rails. In this embodiment, the yoke portions 520B-2 may comprise a bracket which extends outwardly away from the end of the rail 520 by a distance which creates an opening or slot for accepting a post. The rail 520 may be engaged with the post by sliding or rotating it so that the post fits into the slot. Once connected, lateral movement of the post relative to the rail is prevented.
[0077] FIGS. 32 and 33 show different views of the gate 550 (FIGS. 26-28). In one example, the gate 550 is made from the same rung material as other components of the scaffolding assembly 302 (e.g., the horizontal and vertical rails) in order to allow for use of common parts. Additionally, the spacing between rungs (e.g., rungs 551 and 552 and 553) is in line with the rest of the scaffolding assembly 302 (e.g., see FIG. 26, in which the rungs 551 and 552 are aligned with the top rails 522 and 526, as well as the intermediate rails 520 and 524, respectively) in order to allow the gate 550 to be used as a ladder as well when the gate 550 is not in use as a gate.
[0078] Referring to FIG. 33, the gate 550 further includes first and second hinge locking tabs 554 and 555, which use the same rod that is used in the shelf beam locking bracket. In addition, the same spring and roll pin is configured to be used with the first and second hinge locking tabs 554 and 555 as well. As shown, at the bottom of the round tube of each of the hinge locking tabs 554 and 555 is an angled cut that is configured to work in concert with the spring to swing the gate 550 closed in a first predetermined position.
[0079] Also shown in FIGS. 32 and 33 as part of the gate 550 is a spring-loaded locking pin 556. In the event that the gate 550 is used as a scaffolding frame rather than as a gate, the locking pin 556 is configured to extend through a vertical post 512 of the scaffolding assembly 302 in order to prevent the gate 550 from opening. Furthermore, in one example the gate 550 includes a base beam 557 extending between the vertical post 512 and an opposing vertical rail 514. The base beam 557 advantageously allows the structure of the gate 550 to be stronger and also keep everything square when the gate 550 is opened and closed. Referring again to FIG. 1, it can be seen that the gate 250 is provided with a double welded base beam, which functions similar to the base beam 557 (FIGS. 32 and 33).
[0080] FIG. 34A shows an enlarged view of a portion of the scaffolding assembly 302, and FIG. 35 shows an exploded view of a portion of the scaffolding assembly 302 of FIG. 34A. As shown FIG. 35, the bottom rail 528 is constructed similar to the horizontal rail 228 of the scaffolding assembly 2, as shown in FIG. 10. That is, the bottom rail 528 includes first and second components 528-1 and 528-2, a C-shaped joining member 528-3 for joining the first and second components 528-1 and 528-2 together, a plate member 528-4 configured to be coupled to the joining member 528-3, and a clip member 528-5 configured to extend through each of the joining member 528-3 and the plate member 528-4.
[0081] Also depicted in FIG. 35 are each of the truss members 540 and 544, which are configured to be coupled to the first and second components 528-1 and 528-2 of the bottom rail 528. FIG. 35 further depicts a U-shaped spring-loaded pin 541 exploded from the truss member 540. This pin 541 functions similar to the pin 244-2 depicted in FIGS. 11 and 12. In an alternative example, as shown in FIG. 34B, a similarly configured clip member 528-5B may use a uniform pin design in order to prevent having to make a custom clip member for the beam connection point. As shown in FIG. 34B, the plate member 528-4B has been flipped, as compared to plate member 528-4 (FIG. 34A), and the clip member 528-5B is positioned through an upward through hole to allow room for the spring tab and pin, and also is positioned with a relatively large hole to the main rail in order to allow the clip member 528-5B to be bent and fit through the large hole.
[0082] Additionally, it will also be appreciated that the bottom rail 528 (e.g., and also the bottom rail 529 (FIG. 28) provides a mechanism to prevent users from falling off of the scaffolding assembly 302. More specifically, and as shown in FIG. 35, each of the first and second components 528-1 and 528-2 of the bottom rail 528 includes a corresponding kick plate 528-6 and 528-7 in order to prevent users from falling off. That is, rather than overstep the scaffolding assembly 302 when working at a relatively high elevation, the feet of users may bump the upwardly extending kick plates 528-6 and 528-7 rather than stepping over the edge, thus keeping them safe (and also aiding in preventing tools and the like which are resting on the floor/panels 502 from falling off). The kick plates thus prevent tools and raw material from easily being knocked off the deck while the user is moving around.
[0083] In embodiment, the panels 502 may comprise a peripheral frame and a central insert, such as made of plywood. The peripheral frame may, for example, have three fixed sides and one removable end. When the end is removed, a central panel member may be slid outwardly of the remainder of the peripheral frame and be replaced with a new one (such as in the event of damage, etc.). In one embodiment, the removable end might be connected via one or more screws, etc.
[0084] FIG. 36 shows a section view of the scaffolding assembly 302 of FIG. 26.
[0085] It will be understood that the above-described arrangements of apparatus and the method there from are merely illustrative of applications of the principles of this invention and many other embodiments and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
