Abstract: The present invention provides an automated system for spraying a wall of a building.

Abstract: A platform and method for erecting a platform of support beams to which decking is applied so that it is suspended from at least one main cable of a bridge. Spaced slings are applied to the main cable so that each extends around the main cable. Ends of each of the slings are attached to a respective one of the support beams respectively. One end of a guy in the form of a cable is attached to at least one of the slings intermediate ends thereof. The guy is extended between the sling and an anchor point to restrain the sling from slippage along the length of the main cable.

Abstract: A machine for conveying objects, including: a base; a turret mounted to the base for rotation about an axis, the turret including a turret mounted track, and a turret shuttle with a gripper to grip an object, the turret shuttle mounted on the turret mounted track; a boom mounted to the turret, whereby turret rotation sweeps the boom radially about the axis, the boom including: a boom mounted track extending therealong, a boom shuttle with a gripper to grip an object, the boom shuttle mounted to the boom mounted track, and a carousel located proximal to the base extending around the turret and rotatable about the axis, the carousel having a plurality of object bays, the carousel being controllably rotatable about the axis to locate any of the object bays proximal to the turret mounted track for transfer of an object between the object bay and the turret shuttle.

Abstract: An articulating joint for a wind turbine having a tower defining a shaft and a deck provided in the shaft includes a bracket extending from a first end having a fixed connection with the deck to a second end including an opening. A fastener includes a head pivotably connected to the tower and a shaft extending through the opening. A washer connected to the bracket is aligned with the opening for receiving the shaft such that the fastener is pivotable with the washer relative to the opening to allow for relative movement between the tower and the deck.

Abstract: A rotor blade replacement system for mounting and/or unmounting of a rotor blade in a wind turbine, and a method for replacing, installing or detaching a rotor blade. The blade replacement system has first and second clamps for detachable attachment to a rotor blade at a first position near a rotor hub mounting end of the rotor blade and at a second position near the tip of the rotor blade. The clamps have substantially U-shaped frame elements with a fixed first leg and a second leg which is rotatably and lockably mounted to a base portion of the frame elements. The second leg is displaceable between open and closed positions by a first actuator. The U-shaped frame element at least partially encloses and clamps the rotor blade, wherein the first and second legs have at least one pulley for interacting with a wire from a winch placed on the ground.

Abstract: Provided are examples of transportation systems, elevator systems, and kits for use in towers, as well as tower sections and methods for performing assembly or maintenance operations in towers, particularly wind turbine towers, guides mounted in tower sections for transporting an operator or robot along an inside of a tower and an elevator carrying parts of such guides.

Abstract: According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided a scaffolding arrangement to be attached to a deck structure, comprising a set of arms (2) including a carrier beam (5) for carrying the working levels and support structures needed in work, an attachment frame (1) for attaching the set of arms to the upper surface of the deck structure and platforms (103, 104, 105) for forming working levels.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention is a horizontal scaffold truss that has upper and lower horizontal scaffold members offset but fixedly joined with braces. Each upper and lower members have a connector positioned on each end of the respective lower and upper members, where at least one of the connectors is pivotally mounted on the respective lower or upper connector, and the connecters are engageable with an annular member positioned on a vertical scaffold member.

Abstract: A method for providing and assembling scaffolding units, each of which will be assembled from individual scaffolding components (of a scaffolding system) for constructing an industrial plant, in particular a petroleum refinery, comprising the following steps: Providing a 3D construction plan of the industrial plant; Constructing schedule for the industrial plant in order of occurrence, Selecting and drawing of scaffolding units to be used in the individual sections or phases of construction of the industrial plant in the 3D construction plan; Specifying the erection time required to erect the scaffolding unit; Specifying the dismantling time required to dismantle unit; Dividing the construction schedule into time intervals; Calculating for every single time interval, while taking into consideration the erection and dismantling times of the scaffolding units, the respective number of scaffolding components of identical design which are used simultaneously; Determining the maximum number of scaffolding compo

Abstract: A safety landing may include a first support panel positionable within the shaft and having a first support surface and a second support surface spaced apart from the first support surface. At least a first platform may have a first end that is movably connected to the first support panel and a second end spaced apart from the first end. The first platform may have an upper surface, an opposing lower surface and an end surface at the first end. The first platform may be movably between a closed position in which the first platform extends laterally across the shaft, and in which the lower surface rests on the first support surface and an open position in which the first platform is generally upright and the end surface of the first platform rests on the second support surface.

Abstract: An adjustable scaffolding that may adjust to the curvature of a structure. The adjustable scaffolding may comprise a main member, pegs, wing platforms, and rails. A method of use may be employed in which the main member is attached to a structure. The pegs may be secured to the main member in any desired orientation to adjust to the curvature of a structure. Wing platforms may be placed over the pegs, allowing a user to walk along the wing platform. Railing is placed within the pegs, allowing the pegs and the railing to secure the wing platform to the main member.

Abstract: A top mounted silo unloader utilizes a belt conveyor to move collected silage from the center of the silo structure to the door of the silo chute for discharge of the silage from the silo. The silo unloader uses a vertical auger mounted on top of the silage collection apparatus to receive silage therefrom and elevate the silage for discharge onto the belt conveyor for discharge from the silo. The silage collection apparatus includes an auger and an inboard paddle to discharge silage into the vertical auger. The belt conveyor includes a height adjustment mechanism that facilitates alignment of the belt conveyor with a selected door where a support member engages the door sill to keep the belt conveyor aligned as the silo unloader lowers with the depletion of silage from the surface as the belt conveyor is pivotally supported from the unloader frame to permit vertical movement.

Abstract: A plank (10) used to construct a platform such as a catwalk (C3, C4) extending about the exterior or interior of a building (B) includes first and second generally horizontal sections (12, 22). The second generally horizontal section of the plank extends from one side of the first section. During construction of the platform, the first section of one plank overlaps the second section of an adjacent plank. A third generally vertical section (52) of the plank extends generally perpendicularly from one side of the second section and includes lips (58, 60) at its inner and outer ends for attaching the plank to toe boards (40, 44) to secure the plank to the frames. When installed, the planks extend from a side of the building. The resulting catwalk extends either in a straight line, or is curved, depending upon the amount of overlap the first and second sections of the respective planks.

Abstract: This platform provides access to a hydraulic machine via a suction tube. This hydraulic machine belongs to an installation for converting hydraulic energy into mechanical or electrical energy, or reciprocally. The platform includes a load-bearing element designed to slide along a longitudinal axis in order to enter an opening in the suction tube, said load-bearing element having an extremity that is designed to be immobilized in the suction tube and floor elements that are placed on the load-bearing element. At least some of the floor elements are articulated with the load-bearing element about axes substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, while these floor elements can be rotated about these axes between a folded configuration and a deployed configuration and define at least a portion of a floor of the platform.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tower for a wind power installation, with the walls of the tower being produced at least partially from individual wall sections, which are connected to one another via connecting means. The object of the invention is therefore to provide a tower for a wind power installation, which can be assembled with adequate precision. Furthermore, the object of the invention is to provide a method for erection of a tower such as this. With respect to the tower, the object according to the invention is achieved in that a falsework is provided at least partially in the tower interior, to which the wall sections are connected, holding them.

Abstract: A safety support structure for use in grain storage bins comprising vertical and horizontal parts, which can be connected to provide a scaffold sufficient to support one or more persons. This safety support structure can be used to prevent a person from becoming trapped in the grain contained within the bin as well as to provide a stable place for a person to work within the bin. The present safety support structure can be freestanding so as not to interfere with any operations above the structure, and also have the ability to be raised off the grain bin floor in order to facilitate removal of grain from the floor with a sweep auger.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for mounting lift components of a lift system in a vertical shaft of a building with the aid of a mounting system which can be moved in the shaft, wherein the lift system has at least one cage which can travel along guide rails in the shaft. In order to develop the method to achieve shorter fitting times and less dependency upon how advanced the construction of the building is, according to the invention a mounting system is positioned in the shaft, having a support platform and a mounting platform, which are disposed one above the other, and having a lifting and pulling device, the support platform and the mounting platform being alternately fixed in position in the shaft and the platform which is not fixed in position at any one time is displaced in the vertical direction by means of the lifting and pulling device relative to the platform fixed in position. In addition, the invention relates to a mounting system for carrying out the method.

Abstract: This platform provides access to a hydraulic machine via a suction tube. This hydraulic machine belongs to an installation for converting hydraulic energy into mechanical or electrical energy, or reciprocally. The platform includes a load-bearing element designed to slide along a longitudinal axis in order to enter an opening in the suction tube, said load-bearing element having an extremity that is designed to be immobilized in the suction tube and floor elements that are placed on the load-bearing element. At least some of the floor elements are articulated with the load-bearing element about axes substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, while these floor elements can be rotated about these axes between a folded configuration and a deployed configuration and define at least a portion of a floor of the platform.

Abstract: A tree stand includes an upper support ring formed of a pair of separable, semicircular sections, each having a plurality of brackets depending therefrom. Each bracket includes a slot for receiving an adjustable strap, and a tooth on an inner surface for penetrating a tree trunk. The stand further includes a lower platform likewise formed of a pair of separable, semicircular sections that are fastened to a tree trunk, beneath the support ring. A chair includes pulleys that roll on both the upper ring and the platform to allow a hunter to move the chair a desired position.

Abstract: The rotatably-engaged tree stand and ladder for access there with includes a pair of track straps that install around an outer surface of an existing tree, and which are generally parallel with one another. A seat and foot base may attach onto the pair of tracks, and are able to roll around the track and tree. A handle strap including a plurality of handles attaches onto an outer surface of an existing tree, and which is positioned above the pair of tracks so as to enable an occupant to manually move the seat and foot base along the track. The seat and foot base enable the occupant to look outwardly with respect to said tree. A ladder extends up from the ground to a height upon said tree, which shall be below the track straps to provide clearance for the seat and foot base.

Abstract: A bracket (60) for securing a first kickboard (62) transversely of a second kickboard (54) comprises a socket (64) for receiving an end of the first kickboard and a clip (70) for securing the bracket to the second kickboard, the clip comprising a lateral extension (76) aligned with the longitudinal axis of the second kickboard for stabilizing the bracket thereon. Also disclosed are (1) a telescopic rail (46) for use in forming a guard or safety barrier for builders' trestles, staging, scaffolding or the like, comprising inner and outer telescopic parts (80, 82), in which the inner part is prevented from sliding free of the outer part in use; (2) a brace for stabilizing adjacent trestles; (3) a ladder support bracket; (4) removable safety rail components and (5) a longitudinal kickboard bracket attached to a trestle crossmember.

Abstract: Work platform systems and related methods of assembly and use are disclosed herein. In one exemplary embodiment, a method of installing a work platform system into an internal cavity of a structure includes supporting a first platform portion at a first location, and adding a plurality of additional platform portions to the first platform portion, where successive ones of the additional platform portions are respectively positioned at respective locations that are successively farther outward away from the first platform portion. The method further includes coupling the additional platform portions to one or more other locations, and detaching the additional platform portions from one another. The method additionally includes lowering or raising one or more of the first and additional platform portions to one or more additional levels below or above the first level, where the work platform system includes the first and additional platform portions.

Abstract: A construction apparatus for use within an elevator hoistway is provided. The construction apparatus includes span members, each span member having a first end, a second end and a length. Sill attachments are connected to the first end of the span members. The sill attachments are configured to rotate about and seat against a building sill. A support member connected to the second end of the span members. The support members are configured to seat against a second side of the elevator hoistway. The length of the span members is longer than a horizontal distance from the building sill to the second side of the elevator hoistway such that the span members rest in an inclined orientation with respect to a substantially horizontal axis. One or more platforms is supported by one or more forms, the platforms arranged such as to provide a working platform within the elevator hoistway.

Abstract: A support assembly for a tree-based platform includes a rod having a length greater than a diameter of a tree to which the platform is intended to be attached. The assembly further includes a first ring defining an opening configured to receive a portion of a tree, and a first plurality of extending members inwardly advanceable relative to the first ring. Each of the extending members has an end portion configured to engage the tree in the opening of the first ring when sufficiently advanced. The assembly further includes a second ring defining an opening configured to receive a portion of the tree, and a second plurality of extending members inwardly advanceable relative to the second ring. Each extending member has an end portion configured to engage the tree in the opening of the second ring when sufficiently advanced. The assembly further includes first and second supports. Each support has a bottom rail, a top rail, and two side rails.

Abstract: Construction apparatus for use within an elevator hoistway are provided. The construction apparatus include a span member having a first end and a second end. A sill attachment is connected to the first end of the span member and configured to seat against a building sill. A support member is connected to the second end of the span member and configured to seat against a second side of the elevator hoistway, wherein the second side of the elevator hoistway is opposite the building sill. A plurality of apertures is arranged on the span member and configured to allow a connection to a hoist device. The span member is configured to rotate about the sill attachment.

Abstract: A suspended access chair with a rescue system that may be utilized to access a wind turbine blade while mounted on a tower for purposes such as inspection, maintenance, cleaning, and repair of the blade is provided. The suspended access chair generally includes a chair frame assembly. Upper frame and lower frame assembly rollers are secured to the chair frame assembly and are configured for rolling contact along an edge of the blade. The suspended access chair further includes primary dextral and primary sinistral gripping arms. The gripping arms may be adjusted to conform to the shape of the blade and include rollers configured for rolling contact along a portion of the blade. A hoist is provided to raise and lower the chair along a suspension rope. The rescue system is used to lower the suspended access chair from an elevated position to the ground during emergency situations.

Abstract: A founding chair for a founding ladder system is of a lightweight fabricated design and includes a pivotally secured top leveling plate. A ladder system for the founding chair includes a slide in engagement rack for securing of the founding chair and allowing incremental adjustment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for enabling access to a structure above ground level by lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, the device comprising a first endless frame structure defining an opening, wherein at least part of the first endless frame structure forms a track portion, the track portion being adapted to guide an, in relation to the track portion, movable object, such as a gondola, along the track portion. The device may further comprise a second endless frame structure defining an opening, the second endless frame structure being aligned with the first endless frame structure.

Abstract: A device for enabling access to a structure above ground or sea level, in particular a rotor blade of a wind turbine, by lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, the device including a frame structure,—means for supporting the device in relation to the structure, and—means for lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, where at least part of the frame structure includes a track portion, the track portion being adapted to guide an, in relation to the track portion, movable object along the track portion, where the means for supporting the device in relation to the structure are configured for positioning the device in relation to the structure, and the means for supporting the device in relation to the structure are configured for facilitating a movement of the device essentially in the longitudinal direction of the structure.

Abstract: A method of servicing a wind turbine generally comprises rotating a rotor of the wind turbine until a blade extends downwardly next to the wind turbine tower. A work platform is positioned next to the tower with at least one steering wheel in contact with the tower. The work platform is connected to an upper part of the wind turbine with at least one cable and then moved vertically and horizontally to a first position. A section of the blade within reach is serviced in the first position, and then the work platform is moved vertically and horizontally to a second position for servicing a different section of the blade. The steering wheel is in contact with the tower when the work platform is moved.

Abstract: Described is a lift unit for ascending and descending in a shaft formed by a scaffold column of a scaffold, the scaffold column comprising at least one scaffold section, each scaffold section being defined by uprights and ledgers, comprising a first part adapted to be fixed at different heights to the scaffold by means of a first set of fixing means; a second part adapted so that it can be fixed at different heights to the scaffold by means of a second set of fixing means; a distance control means adapted to drive a variation in the distance between the first set of fixing means and the second set of fixing means; and methods for use of the lift unit.

Abstract: A support platform for enabling a worker to service an oil well next to a wellhead having a valve tree includes: a) a platform having an upper floor, a lower floor and a cellar in between the floors; b) a platform having a periphery, a central opening and radially extending beams; c) a plurality of walls attached to the periphery of the platform, said beams connecting to said walls below said upper floor; d) a drain that enables fluid to drain from the upper floor to the lower floor; e) a coupler that spans between the floors for enabling a connection to be made between the platform and valve tree; and f) a liquid guard or other provision that disallows the escape of fluid from a floor via the central opening.

Abstract: Disclosed is a scaffold installed within a large structure such as a pressure vessel or a tank of a ship, and an insulation system construction method using the same. The scaffold for use in performing desired work within a large structure includes a supporting structure installed adjacent to both side surfaces and a top surface of the large structure, and a carrying unit installed movable along the supporting structure to allow materials to be carried or to provide a working space for a worker thereon, wherein the supporting structure is installed to be movable along a wall surface of the large structure.

Abstract: A tree stand having one or two C-shaped platform sections removably and supportably positionable on one or two mounting brackets, with each platform section being foldable in half for ease of transport and storage, and including a hinged portion for enabling access to the stand from below.

Abstract: Disclosed is a scaffold installed within a large structure such as a pressure vessel or a tank of a ship, and an insulation system construction method using the same. The scaffold for use in performing desired work within a large structure includes a supporting structure installed adjacent to both side surfaces and a top surface of the large structure, and a carrying unit installed movable along the supporting structure to allow materials to be carried or to provide a working space for a worker thereon, wherein the supporting structure is installed to be movable along a wall surface of the large structure.

Abstract: A ladderway system for an underground raise includes an elongate tube adapted to generally conform to the shape of the raise. The tube is of circular cross-section to generally conform to the shape of a round bored raise. The tube is formed with a longitudinal slit along its entire length, whereby the diameter of the tube can be adjusted to generally conform to the shape of the raise. The ladderway system further includes a ladder adapted to be mechanically coupled to an interior of the tube. The tube is manufactured of a sufficiently rigid and strong plastics material, such as polyurethane, so that it acts as a surface membrane or liner within the raise.

Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing structures having a continuous sidewall includes a stationary inner work station having at least one working level and a stationary outer work station having at least one working level. The outer work station surrounds the inner work station. A shaft is disposed between the inner work station and the outer work. A lift or hoist is provided for raising and lowering a work piece in the shaft as work progresses.

Abstract: A safety apparatus adapted for retrofitting vertical enclosures is shown. The safety apparatus may include a support frame, a grate platform, and telescoping support legs adapted to fasten to an enclosure wall. The apparatus may also include a hinged hatch defining an opening configured to allow a person to be pulled through the platform.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for enabling access to a structure above ground level by lowering and/or lifting the device in relation to the structure, the device comprising a first endless frame structure defining an opening, wherein at least part of the first endless frame structure forms a track portion, the track portion being adapted to guide an, in relation to the track portion, movable object, such as a gondola, along the track portion. The device may further comprise a second endless frame structure defining an opening, the second endless frame structure being aligned with the first endless frame structure.

Abstract: A toeboard system includes toeboards of a cross section and an end configuration to assist in defining a locking corner connection of two toeboards at a scaffold upright. The system includes a toeboard clamp securable to a scaffold upright with projecting latch fingers for engaging two overlapped partially nested toeboards or two toeboards forming a generally perpendicular corner connection. A latch finger of the toeboard clamp engages a slot or port in the toeboards adjacent an end thereof to positively maintain toeboards in a perpendicular connection.

Abstract: The invention is a manhole construction safety and work platform device having a scaffold catwalk for working on a manhole, providing the safety and work platform with adjustable braces engaging the side of a conical manhole casing. The inner perimeter of the device circumferentially defines a central access opening in order to slidably accept, receive, and fit around the conical section of the manhole casing, as typically used in the utility construction industry. The scaffold catwalk has a safety barrier means on the working surface to provide a safe working environment along the outer perimeter. As is common in the industry, the conical section of the manhole casing may be an asymmetrical conical section. One objective of the present invention is to provide a scaffolding platform supported with at least three adjustable brace members to securely support the said platform against the sidewall of any shape of manhole casing.

Abstract: A portable hammock (kit) with artificial limb assembly enables a user to selectively support a vertical load adjacent a select vertical support structure. The artificial limb assembly comprises a pair of compression members and first and second tension members. Each compression member has first and second compression ends. The first compression ends are drawn together such that the longitudinal axes of the members substantially intersect. The second compression ends are thus spaceable from one another. The first tension member interconnects the second member ends and receives a supportive outer surface of the vertical support structure. The second tension member interconnects the first compression ends with the vertical support structure at a superior portion thereof. The first compression ends at an opposite portion receive the vertical load.

Abstract: An apparatus comprising a frame scaffold with a mechanically operated sliding support, as well as methods of assembling, using and disassembling a frame scaffold using the sliding support are disclosed. The apparatus provides for at least one individual to vertically ascend and/or descend along the perimeter of frame scaffold by mechanical operation. The operator of the apparatus is in close proximity to the scaffold. The apparatus does not require the support of an additional structure (i.e., it is self-supporting). The apparatus provides improved safety and efficiency in the assembly and disassembly of frame scaffold.

Abstract: A founding chair for a founding ladder system is of a lightweight fabricated design and includes a pivotally secured top leveling plate. A ladder system for the founding chair includes a slide in engagement rack for securing of the founding chair and allowing incremental adjustment.

Abstract: An access apparatus is provided, the apparatus comprising a suspension structure, a support structure adapted to suspend said suspension structure through an access opening, and a platform assembly, the platform assembly comprising a platform structure moveable between a stowed position substantially adjacent said suspension structure and a working position extending outwardly from said suspension structure, to facilitate suspension and deployment of the access apparatus in a covered cavity or reservoir through a restricted access opening.

Abstract: A scaffolding system comprising a plurality of elongate structural tubes and a plurality of node members. Each node member has three or more mating portions that each extend along one of three mutually perpendicular axes that pass through the respective node member. End portions of the structural tubes can be releasably secured to the mating portions to provide a framework of vertical columns that extend between pairs of node members and horizontal beams that extend between pairs of node members. The scaffolding system further comprises a plurality of tie members that can each be releasably secured at opposing ends to a node member such that the respective tie member is inclined relative to the vertical columns or the horizontal beams, such that the scaffolding system, when assembled, is capable of supporting structural loads.

Abstract: The invention is a manhole construction safety and work platform device having a scaffold catwalk for working on a manhole, providing the safety and work platform with adjustable braces engaging the side of a conical manhole casing. The inner perimeter of the device circumferentially defines a central access opening in order to slidably accept, receive, and fit around the conical section of the manhole casing, as typically used in the utility construction industry. The scaffold catwalk has a safety barrier means on the working surface to provide a safe working environment along the outer perimeter. As is common in the industry, the conical section of the manhole casing may be an asymmetrical conical section. One objective of the present invention is to provide a scaffolding platform supported with at least three adjustable brace members to securely support the said platform against the sidewall of any shape of manhole casing.

Abstract: The invention concerns a working platform assembly for use in the interior of a tower-like building. The object of the present invention is to provide a working platform assembly which can be used in the interior of a tower-like building even if the tower is closed at the top by an upper structure thereon. According to the invention that object is attained by a scissor lattice-like carrier structure and a working platform arranged on the carrier structure. In that respect the invention is based on the that the working platform assembly according to the invention can be adapted to different inside diameters of the tower-like building by virtue of the scissor lattice-like carrier structure and can thus extend completely across the tower cross-section. That makes it possible to work on the platform assembly. The working platform assembly can be released from the tower wall by the scissor lattice-like carrier structure and fixed again in another region of the building of a different cross-section.

Abstract: For the safety and convenience of personnel working on upper portions of a blowout preventer stack (10), a work platform (25) is supported at the midheight of the stack. The platform has a main support structure (26) which is affixable to central connection flanges in the stack. Auxiliary support members (33) are releasably affixable to arms (27) of the main structure, and to them are releasably affixable separate personnel support deck units (38). Guard rails (42) can be connected to the deck units. The platform is modular for easy mounting and demounting to the stack. The platform's main support structure (26) can be a long term element of the stack if desired.

Abstract: A buried pipeline construction laser alignment survey platform mountable on manhole sections. The platform has a platform deck and two opposing sets of foldable handrail mounted on the perimeter of the platform deck which are inter-connected by safety chains to complete a safety perimeter. A manhole access in the platform deck has a slideable access cover providing for a closed set-up position, an open access position, and a partially open laser alignment position. One or more sets of anchor pedestals on the bottom of the platform deck provide for securing the platform to manhole sections of one or more diameters.