Platform Patents (Class 182/222)
  • Patent number: 7077239
    Abstract: The invention is a scaffold access system for use in a scaffold frame of horizontal and vertical scaffold members. The system includes double barrel scaffold horizontal member, a series of short scaffold boards, a series of long scaffold boards, a short vertical scaffold member, a safety gate, and a series of short horizontal members. The double barrel scaffold horizontal member has a upper tube and a lower tube joined in a vertical relationship and a third tube slidable in the lower tube. Each tube has an interior and an exterior end. The upper tube and the third tube have an attachment member positioned on its respective exterior end. The upper tube has an upstanding vertical stub, to which is attached the short vertical scaffold member. The short scaffold boards and the long scaffold boards are placed on the scaffold frame to define a scaffold deck with an access opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Deltak Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Yates W. Hayman, Ken Hensley, Robert E. Lea
  • Patent number: 7032712
    Abstract: The invention relates to a scaffold with vertical supports arranged spaced apart next to one another and/or behind one another, with horizontal carriers arranged between adjacent vertical supports and with scaffold decks which releasably lie at their end regions on oppositely disposed horizontal carriers another and preferably extending parallel to one another, preferably by means of hooks,.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Peri GmbH
    Inventor: Artur Schwörer
  • Patent number: 6971477
    Abstract: A scaffolding (10) for elevating a worker (not shown) above a floor or ground surface is disclosed. The scaffolding (10) broadly includes a pair of frames (12) and (14), cross bracing (16) coupling the frames (12,14) together, and a plurality of walkboards (18, 20, and 22) removably supported between the frames (12,14). Each of the frames (12,14) includes a plurality of slotted ledgers (32, 34, 36, 38) and (40, 42, 44, 46) coupled to and extending horizontally between corresponding support posts (24,26) and (28,30), respectively. Each ledger is configured to facilitate initial assembly of the frames (12,14) and to prevent undesired shifting of a walkboard supported thereon. For example, the ledger (38) is defined by a U-shaped wall (60) that presents an arcuate walkboard bearing support surface (62) having open, recessed slots (64,66,68,70,72) defined therein. Each slot is configured and dimensioned to receive a portion of the supported walkboard and prevent shifting of the walkboard along the ledger axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventor: Steven J. Wyse
  • Patent number: 6892860
    Abstract: A scaffold includes a platform, a pivotable leg unit, and a leg lock. The leg lock is used to lock the leg unit in an extended position for use of the scaffold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Cosco Management, Inc.
    Inventors: William R. Gibson, Paul K. Meeker, Luke Hillebrecht
  • Publication number: 20040262084
    Abstract: A roller and conveyor track stand for use in logistics handling roller and conveyor track systems and equipment that incorporate patterns of roller and conveyor components and systems that are formed with and define spaced apart interstices. The roller and conveyor track stand includes, among other features and elements, a generally planar platform sized to support a user and that is formed from a durable material with a thickness selected to impart substantial rigidity and durability of the platform when subjected to operational loading conditions. The track stand further includes a plurality of stacking recesses that are formed about a superior face of the platform. The track stand is further adapted with a plurality of inferiorly projecting engagement shear bosses incorporated about an opposite inferior face of the platform. Each boss of the plurality is correspondingly positioned to generally register with a respective one of the plurality of stacking recesses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: William H. Hubbard
  • Patent number: 6761247
    Abstract: Scaffolding (10) having safety features for coupling scaffolding structural members so as to prevent equipment damage and worker injury from inadvertent disassembly, while permitting quick assembly and disassembly when desired. The scaffolding (10) incorporating the safety features broadly comprises legs (12); beams (14); a platform (16); coupling braces (18); platform pins (20); and platform clips (22). The first safety feature is a rounded, spring-biased, rotation-limited G-pin for adjustably coupling the beams (14) with the legs (12). The G-pin's rounded shape and a perpendicularly projecting stop (51) minimize risks of inadvertent removal. The second feature is a lockable pin (44) operable to independently couple structural members (12,14) in the event the G-pin is inadvertently removed. The third and fourth features are platform pins (20) and spring-biased platform clips (22) operable to prevent, respectively, undesirable horizontal and vertical movement of the platform (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Inventor: Steven J. Wyse
  • Patent number: 6745871
    Abstract: A composite scaffold plank for resting on two spaced, substantially parallel horizontal scaffold support members. The plank has an elongated planar panel with elongated reinforcing ribs mounted at a lateral edge substantially perpendicularly to the second major surface of the planar panel. The reinforcing ribs are substantially parallel and equally spaced from one another. There are notches defining tabs at each end of the planar panel that form a finger joint with another similar plank abutting the plank's end. Transverse channels formed in the ribs fit over the frame's horizontal support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventor: Chad D. Armstrong
  • Publication number: 20040094362
    Abstract: A scaffolding (10) for elevating a worker (not shown) above a floor or ground surface is disclosed. The scaffolding (10) broadly includes a pair of frames (12) and (14), cross bracing (16) coupling the frames (12,14) together, and a plurality of walkboards (18, 20, and 22) removably supported between the frames (12,14). Each of the frames (12,14) includes a plurality of slotted ledgers (32, 34, 36, 38) and (40, 42, 44, 46) coupled to and extending horizontally between corresponding support posts (24,26) and (28,30), respectively. Each ledger is configured to facilitate initial assembly of the frames (12,14) and to prevent undesired shifting of a walkboard supported thereon. For example, the ledger (38) is defined by a U-shaped wall (60) that presents an arcuate walkboard bearing support surface (62) having open, recessed slots (64,66,68,70,72) defined therein. Each slot is configured and dimensioned to receive a portion of the supported walkboard and prevent shifting of the walkboard along the ledger axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventor: Steven J. Wyse
  • Patent number: 6715724
    Abstract: An adjustable support structure for a fireplace including upper and lower bars extending in a longitudinal direction, the upper bar being positioned above the lower bar and including a surface upon which the fireplace can rest. First and second cross bars are also included, each with upper and lower ends, the upper end of the first cross bar being coupled to the upper bar and the lower end of the second cross bar being coupled to the lower bar. The lower end of the first cross bar is moveably coupled to the lower bar and the upper end of the second cross bar is moveably coupled to the upper bar such that the upper bar may be adjusted upwards in a plane with respect to the lower bar to a desired height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Hon Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Jack Jason Wells, Matthew Carter Wicks, Daniel Lee Holt
  • Publication number: 20040040788
    Abstract: A scaffold plank assembly for engagement to a scaffolding frame. The scaffold plank assembly comprises an elongate, non-metal plank defining opposed first and second ends and at least one interior cavity. Attached to respective ones of the opposed ends of the plank is a pair of end connectors. Each of the end connectors comprises a main body defining an arcuate body engagement surface, and at least two arms which are attached to the main body. Each of the arms also defines an arcuate arm engagement surface which is substantially continuous with the body engagement surface. Attached to and extending from the main body is at least one attachment finger which is extensible into the interior cavity of the plank. The body and arm engagement surfaces are sized and configured to be cooperatively engageable to the scaffolding frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2003
    Publication date: March 4, 2004
    Inventors: Timothy B. Bothwell, Roy Watson
  • Publication number: 20030226714
    Abstract: Platform assemblies may be built up using a substantial number of inverted U-shaped vertical supports with platform hold down members that hold the platforms in place, thus avoiding slippage or pilferage. The hold down members form a unitary structure with the supports and platform assemblies to hold the platforms securely in place. The unitary structure of the scaffolding assembly with hold down members acts as a deterrent against pilferage of the platforms because the unitary structure does not allow the planks to be removed unless the platform assembly is substantially disassembled. It also reduces the steps required to assemble a secure platform assembly with hold down members thus saving time while still preventing slippage and pilferage. The hold down members have holes at one end, and these holes have a diameter slightly greater than the outer diameter (OD) of the guide pipes at the junctions between vertically extending pipes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Publication date: December 11, 2003
    Inventor: Michael D. Masino
  • Patent number: 6651398
    Abstract: A decking assembly and decking kit with hold-down clip are disclosed. The decking assembly includes a supporting substructure, first and second lengthwise extending boards with lips extending outwardly and upwardly away from a side thereof and at least one hold-down clip having two downwardly extending tabs which engage the lips of adjacent boards to fix the boards to the substructure. The decking kit includes at least two such boards and at least one such clip, and may additionally include a fastener, such as a screw, and a screwdriver bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Composite Wood Specialties Ltd.
    Inventor: Karl H. W. Gregori
  • Publication number: 20030183453
    Abstract: A composite scaffold plank for resting on two spaced, substantially parallel horizontal scaffold support members. The plank has an elongated planar panel with elongated reinforcing ribs mounted at a lateral edge substantially perpendicularly to the second major surface of the planar panel. The reinforcing ribs are substantially parallel and equally spaced from one another. There are notches defining tabs at each end of the planar panel that form a finger joint with another similar plank abutting the plank's end. Transverse channels formed in the ribs fit over the frame's horizontal support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventor: Chad D. Armstrong
  • Patent number: 6564904
    Abstract: In order to provide a walk-on platform arrangement, comprising at least one first sub-platform, which is movable from a rest position in a direction of extension into a working position, and a second sub-platform, which in the working position is disposed behind the first sub-platform, wherein a rear boundary edge of the first sub-platform and a front boundary edge of the second sub-platform in the rest position are spaced vertically apart from one another, with which platform arrangement the risk of accident for an operative walking on the platform arrangement in the working position is reduced, it is proposed that the platform arrangement comprises a guide system, by means of which the relative motion between the first sub-platform and the second sub-platform as the first sub-platform moves into the working position is guided in such a way that the vertical distance between the rear boundary edge of the first sub-platform and the front boundary edge of the second sub-platform in the working position is smal
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Duerr Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Guenther Mueller, Guenter Walter
  • Patent number: 6557666
    Abstract: A modular hoarding includes vertical posts secured to the ground. The vertical posts are spaced apart. Detachable, horizontally oriented cross-members are secured to the vertical posts. Detachable wall panels are secured to the horizontally oriented cross-members. The wall panels are secured in abutting positions to form a modular wall structure. The cross-members and wall panels are secured to the posts and cross-members respectively so that the cross-members and panels may be detached after use. The cross-members may be secured at various selected positions along the vertical posts. Similarly, the wall panels may be secured to the cross-members at various selected positions relative to the cross-members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Inventor: Jean Drouin
  • Patent number: 6530456
    Abstract: The invention relates to scaffolding, especially facade scaffolding, comprising vertical poles (11) located one behind the other, preferably in pairs, and interconnected at given vertical intervals by means of cross struts (12). Said vertical poles (11) consist preferably of individual elements (11′) and form support frames (43) with said cross struts (12). Base plates (13) are also positioned between the cross struts (12) of neighbouring support frames (43). Diagonal poles (27) are arranged between at least some of the neighbouring vertical poles (11). According to the invention, scaffolding of this type is configured in such a way that at least one end of the diagonal poles (27) engages in an aperture (16) provided in the designated vertical pole (11) by means of a hook (15, 15′). Said opening lies at least essentially in the plane defined by the axes (17) of the neighbouring vertical poles (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Assignee: PlusEight Technology AB
    Inventor: Harry Wallther
  • Patent number: 6523644
    Abstract: A work platform for use on bridges or other structures wherein a plurality of cables extend in spaced relation along a section of the structure and are supported by the structure and wherein a floor comprising a plurality of corrugated flooring panels or sections is supported on the cables and removably secured to the cables. The positions of the cables are adjustable in vertical and horizontal directions. A connector assembly releasably connects each of the platform flooring sections to a respective supporting cable on which it rests. Each connector assembly comprises a first part which rests on a bottom wall of the panel and has a portion which extends through an opening in the bottom wall and back through the opening and is connected to a second part to form an eyelet through which the cable passes. In aspects of the present invention, the first and second parts are connected by a lever or a wedge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Paul Kristen, Inc.
    Inventor: Lambros Apostolopoulos
  • Patent number: 6471003
    Abstract: Scaffolding (10) having safety features for coupling scaffolding structural members so as to prevent equipment damage and worker injury from inadvertent disassembly, while permitting quick assembly and disassembly when desired. The scaffolding (10) incorporating the safety features broadly comprises legs (12); beams (14); a platform (16); coupling braces (18); platform pins (20); and platform clips (22). The first safety feature is a rounded, spring-biased, rotation-limited G-pin for adjustably coupling the beams (14) with the legs (12). The G-pin's rounded shape and a perpendicularly projecting stop (51) minimize risks of inadvertent removal. The second feature is a lockable pin (44) operable to independently couple structural members (12,14) in the event the G-pin is inadvertently removed. The third and fourth features are platform pins (20) and spring-biased platform clips (22) operable to prevent, respectively, undesirable horizontal and vertical movement of the platform (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventor: Steven J. Wyse
  • Publication number: 20020134621
    Abstract: A scaffold plank comprising a rectangularly configured main body which defines opposed ends, and a pair of end caps secured to respective ones of the opposed ends of the main body. Both the main body and the end caps are preferably fabricated from a recycled/recyclable plastic material. Additionally, the main body may be provided with one or more internal steel reinforcement bars for purposes of selectively increasing the level of structural integrity/rigidity thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Timothy Benson Bothwell
  • Patent number: 6435305
    Abstract: A stackable step stool having a platform and obtusely angled legs where the design of the stackable step stool allows the stackable step stools to be stacked on top of one another in an alternating manner. The platform is typically rectangular with rounded corners. A raised ridge surrounds the top surface of the platform. The support frame consists of two inverted U-shaped legs. Each of the inverted U-shaped legs has a center portion with two obtusely angled leg portions extending from the center portion. The center portions of the inverted U-shaped legs attach to opposite sides of the platform. The obtusely angled legs are angled away from the platform such that the stackable step stools can be stacked on top of one another in an alternating manner. The stackable step stools are stacked on top of one another with the upper stackable step stool being displaced by at least the width of the legs. Additional stackable step stools can be stacked on top of the stack in an alternating manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: MECO Corporation
    Inventor: Eric A. Ward
  • Patent number: 6431316
    Abstract: A scaffold plank comprising a rectangularly configured main body which defines opposed ends, and a pair of end caps secured to respective ones of the opposed ends of the main body. Both the main body and the end caps are preferably fabricated from a recycled/recyclable plastic material. Additionally, the main body may be provided with one or more internal steel reinforcement bars for purposes of selectively increasing the level of structural integrity/rigidity thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Inventor: Timothy Benson Bothwell
  • Publication number: 20020096399
    Abstract: A composite scaffolding plank made from a plurality of wooden boards positioned in side to side parallel abutment. A plurality of spaced pins extend transversely through the wooden boards. A cam means on the pins pulls and holds the boards together. In addition, my invention is a method of forming wide wooden planks from two or more narrow wooden boards by positioning the boards in side to side parallel abutment and embedding a plurality of spaced pins transversely through the boards. Further, a method of increasing the strength of a wooden plank is to cut the plank longitudinally, position the resulting sections in side to side parallel abutment with the wood grains alternating directions, and to subsequently embed a plurality of spaced pins in the sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph Honein
  • Patent number: 6419046
    Abstract: A scaffold end cap comprises a tapered tubular portion, a flange and a blocking member. The end cap is secured in a scaffold tube by an interference fit resulting from the compression of the end cap as it is pushed into the tube. The end cap prevents debris from entering the scaffold tube, since debris in a scaffold tube can be dangerous especially when scaffold is manipulated above ground level. In an alternative embodiment, the end cap is provided without a flange, in order that the end cap can be located entirely within a scaffold tube. Circumferential ribs are provided on the inner surface of the tubular portion, and longitudinal ribs are provided on the outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Ninefields Cubby Limited
    Inventor: John Cubbison
  • Publication number: 20020079167
    Abstract: A composite scaffolding plank made from a plurality of wooden boards positioned in side to side parallel abutment. A plurality of spaced pins extend transversely through the wooden boards. A cam means on the pins pulls and holds the boards together. In one preferred embodiment where the plurality of wooden boards are from a single board that is ripcut, the strength of the wooden plank is increased by cutting the plank longitudinally, positioning the resulting sections in side to side parallel abutment with the wood grains alternating directions, and to subsequently embedding a plurality of spaced pins in the sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventor: Joseph Honein
  • Patent number: 6354402
    Abstract: Platform assemblies may be built up using a substantial number of inverted U-shaped vertical supports with platform hold down members that hold the platforms in place, thus avoiding slippage or pilferage. The hold down members form a unitary structure with the supports and platform assemblies to hold the platforms securely in place. The unitary structure of the scaffolding assembly with hold down members acts as a deterrent against pilferage of the platforms because the unitary structure does not allow the planks to be removed unless the platform assembly is substantially disassembled. It also reduces the steps required to assemble a secure platform assembly with hold down members thus saving time while still preventing slippage and pilferage. The hold down members have holes at each end, and these holes have a diameter slightly greater than the outer diameter (OD) of the guide pipes at the junctions between vertically extending pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: Michael D. Masino
  • Patent number: 6354758
    Abstract: A connector assembly that interconnects opposed ends of two walk boards utilized in a scaffolding system. Each connector includes a first plate having a plurality of connector shafts extending therefrom. The connector shafts extend through openings or sleeves formed in the end portions of the respective walk boards. Opposite the first plate is a second plate that includes openings through which the connector shafts extend. Retainers are secured to the respective connector shafts for the purpose of retaining the second plate on the connector shafts while the connector shafts extend through the openings within the walk boards. An interconnecting shaft is extended through a series of openings within the first and second plates of each connector. This interconnecting shaft effectively connects the connectors together and thereby connects the opposed end portions of the walk boards together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: David M. Chaulk
  • Patent number: 6318499
    Abstract: A composite scaffolding plank made from a plurality of wooden boards positioned in side to side parallel abutment. At least one of such boards is a whole natural wooden board, and at least one of such boards is a laminated wooden board. A plurality of spaced pins extend transversely through the wooden boards. A cam means on the pins pulls and holds the boards together. In addition, my invention is a method of forming wide wooden planks from two or more narrow wooden boards (as described) by positioning the boards in side to side parallel abutment and embedding a plurality of spaced pins transversely through the boards. Further, a method of increasing the strength of a wooden plank is to cut the plank longitudinally into sections, add at least one laminated wooden board, position the sections in side to side parallel abutment, and subsequently embed a plurality of spaced pins in the sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Inventors: Joseph Honein, Carl R. Cook
  • Publication number: 20010027899
    Abstract: A scaffold plank comprising an elongate main body having a top wall which defines a central axis and includes a plurality of openings disposed therein along the central axis. Attached to the top wall is an opposed pair of side walls, while attached to at least the top wall and extending between the side walls is a reinforcement structure. The main body is fabricated solely from a plastic material. Additionally, each of the openings is adapted to accommodate a locking pin which allows two or more scaffold planks to be releasably engaged to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventor: Timothy Benson Bothwell
  • Publication number: 20010020559
    Abstract: Equipment support systems and modular platforms provide an equipment support portion with lateral walkways and work areas. The platforms have a skeletal frame that supports a plurality of grates to form the work area. The frame of the platforms also has a number of support legs with circular bases at their lower ends to rest upon the roof or other support surface. The circular bases distribute the load of the supported equipment evenly upon the roof so that specific spots are not overloaded. Outriggers may be removably added to the platform to increase the dimensions of the platform thereby making the platform and supported equipment less prone to overturning from wind loading. Methods are described for providing a support platform designed to resist a specific design wind load. In some preferred embodiments, one or more of the support legs of the platforms are adjustable in length, to allow portions of the platform to be adjusted for differential settlement of the roof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Publication date: September 13, 2001
    Inventor: Ronald G. McCracken
  • Patent number: 6223857
    Abstract: A scaffolding platform (20), having side rails (22,24), one-piece end cross members (26,28), and a panel (30) is utilized to elevate a work surface (32) provided by the panel (30). In an alternate embodiment, the end cross members (26,28) are unitary and hooks (56) are attached to the end cross members (26,28) with hook joints (92). If a hook (56) is damaged, the hook (56) can be removed without separating any of the corner joints (68) which attach the rails (22,24) to the end cross members (26,28). An intermediate cross member (31) is also provided to support the panel (30). The intermediate cross member (31) includes an upper support member (76) which engages the panel (30) and a lower support member (78) which engages the rails (22,24) to maintain spacing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Steven J. Wyse
  • Patent number: 6223856
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dismountable scaffolding with vertical struts and horizontal struts. A base plate extends between said struts and is provided with hook-shaped end fittings on each front face. Said base plate can be placed on a rail section in such a way that vertical locking or unlocking can be selectably achieved by sliding the end fitting in the direction of the rail section. Horizontal antislip locking is achieved and cancelled by raising the end fitting, thereby preventing said fitting from sliding into an inactive vertical locking position when it is in an active vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Peri GmbH
    Inventor: Artur Schwoerer
  • Patent number: 6202789
    Abstract: A composite scaffolding plank made from a plurality of wooden boards positioned in side to side parallel abutment. At least one of such boards is a whole natural wooden board, and at least one of such boards is a laminated wooden board. A plurality of spaced pins extend transversely through the wooden boards. A cam on the pins pulls and holds the boards together. In addition, my invention is a method of forming wide wooden planks from two or more narrow wooden boards (as described) by positioning the boards in side to side parallel abutment and embedding a plurality of spaced pins transversely through the boards. Further, a method of increasing the strength of a wooden plank is to cut the plank longitudinally into sections, add at least one laminated wooden board, position the sections in side to side parallel abutment, and subsequently embed a plurality of spaced pins in the sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Inventors: Joseph Honein, Carl R. Cook
  • Patent number: 6131698
    Abstract: A scaffolding assembly comprises, in this case, four uprights spaced along the wall structure with each upright being about the same distance from the wall structure, each upright has a lower end on the ground and an upper end adjacent the roof. Building engagement means in the form of roof mounting brackets extend from the building to each upright to hold the upper ends of the uprights in fixed space relation to the building, adjacent uprights have respective carriages and hand winches respectively for independently raising or lowering the carriage incrementally in turn in order to raise and lower platforms. To this end the platforms are pivotally supported and extend toward the wall structure so that service personnel can raise and lower the platforms to work on the wall structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Kookoala PTY Ltd.
    Inventor: Shane Trevor Reyland
  • Patent number: 6131700
    Abstract: A permeable core mat having a plurality of flow channels is saturated in a resin mixture by directing the resin mixture through the plurality of flow channels. A fiberglass sheet is secured to the permeable core mat with the resin mixture. The resin mixture is allowed to cure to resulting in a fiber reinforced composite board having a support structure formed within the plurality of flow channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Thomas Farner
  • Patent number: 6105723
    Abstract: A steel plank for scaffolding which comprises a thin sheet metal bendment with a top surface and a bottom surface. The steel plank also comprises an elongated bottom plate attached to the thin sheet metal bendment. The steel plank further comprises a non-slip material attached to the bottom side of the bottom plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: Harsco Corporation
    Inventor: Michael S. D'Alessio
  • Patent number: 6098751
    Abstract: A scaffold system in which a scaffold bed is suspended between a pair of channel members. The channel members are horizontally disposed in respective frames that include a spaced pair of column members. The bed is modular and provides a deck surface that is formed by a plurality of panel members that are joined by a pair of beam members. The panel members have retainer flanges at opposite ends thereof, the end most retainer flanges of the bed engaging respective ones of the channel members. Each of the column members is provided with a retainer for holding the bed engaged with the channel members. Handrails are selectively connectable between the column members in elevated relation to the deck surface. The retainers are adopted for connecting wall braces for laterally stabilizing the system. The frames can rest on stationary supports, or they can be configured as hangers for suspension by tension members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Mountain Box Systems
    Inventors: R. Stephen Eichenlaub, George Natale
  • Patent number: 6076991
    Abstract: An end cap system for scaffolding planks, especially for hollow core planks. The end cap includes an extrusion having a plank-receiving portion on one side and a rib profile on the other for slidingly receiving scaffolding hooks. The end cap permits similar parts to be used for a wide variety of plank widths and allows for replacement of damaged hooks or the exchange of hook configurations. In the most preferred embodiment, the hooks are fixed to the end cap, such as by a set screw, after they are slidingly located at the desired position. The end caps may be used with either "high" or "low" hooks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Safway Steel Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Stig Karlsen, Roger Frank
  • Patent number: 6045287
    Abstract: A connecting device is provided for a bearing bar consisting of a tube having such a connecting device at each of its two ends. The connecting device may be used to join horizontal and vertical scaffolding elements. The connecting device consists of a bearing head and a clamping device and is of such a design that its top edge lies in a plane with that of the tube attached thereto. In addition, the connecting device has bolts for a non-positive connection with overlying elements suspendable thereover. These constructional features of the connecting device allow the overlying elements, which have holes or eyelets to be pushed over the bolts of the bearing bar for suspending in the scaffold, to be placed close up to the post elements, so that virtually no gap between the overlying element and the post element is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Plettac AG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Busch
  • Patent number: 6012677
    Abstract: A chair-cage adapted to be coupled to a helicopter and used in construction and maintenance of high tension electricity towers and/or lines including a tubular support structure having a first substantially semi-circular tube, first horizontal support bars extending between two locations on the first tube, a horizontal crossbar extending between the first horizontal support bars for connecting the same and a veneer extending over the first tube, the first horizontal support bars and the horizontal crossbar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Inventor: Carlos Mazzoni
  • Patent number: 6000495
    Abstract: A scaffolding system having a first frame connected to a second frame with at least one platform disposed therebetween. The first frame includes a first set of posts connected together by an upper cross member. The second frame includes a second set of posts connected together by a lower cross member. The platform is adapted to be detachably secured to the upper cross member and sandwiched between the upper cross member and the lower cross member such that an upper surface of the lower cross member is generally flush with the platform, thus forming a continuous walking surface. The lower cross member prevents removal of the platform while the second frame is connected to the first frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Bil-Jax, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Brinegar
  • Patent number: 5988318
    Abstract: A connection hook for scaffoldings must, on the one hand, permit a quick and secure connection of two scaffolding parts, and, on the other hand, be able to be manufactured inexpensively and durably and be connectable to scaffolding elements of very different designs. The connection hook of the invention is for this purpose designed as an extruded part, which cooperates with a part, which is always equally shaped on entirely different scaffolding elements, and thereby positively locks the part within the hook opening, and secures this positive lock through a releasable frictional interlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Krause-Werk GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Guenther Krause
  • Patent number: 5967262
    Abstract: Platform units for scaffolding must be light and strong in design and be usable without risk of accident. Therefore, all their parts are designed for a long service life, and should also be included in the static analysis. High rigidity of the corner joints of the rectangular support frame for the platform unit is thereby advantageous as well as having the narrowest possible gaps between adjacent platform units. The invention uses for this purpose, a three-dimensional arrangement of the mounting brackets on the support frames, which combine relative structural symmetry with the fact that the mounting brackets are offset, and thus permit a narrow gap formation between the platform units. The corner joints of the support frames are, in spite of their light construction, resistant to distortion and any uncertainty due to the use of wooden planks for the floor surface is avoided by using a friendly holding frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Krausse-Werk GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Gunther Krause
  • Patent number: 5930974
    Abstract: A platform and support permit one to walk over freshly tiled areas before the bonding agent cures, without disturbing or shifting the tiles. The support is arranged in the grout joints between tiles and is supported by the subfloor, not the tiles. The platform rests on the supports to provide a larger area for one to walk or stand on. The support is of a height which is at least as great as the height of the set tile. Platforms can cover one tile only or cover several tiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Inventor: Michael A. Zielinski
  • Patent number: 5918700
    Abstract: A scaffolding component comprising an inverted channel member and an integral top part, recesses are provided at the juncture of the channel member and the top part for receiving hooks of a platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: SGB Services PLC
    Inventor: Ian K. Gregory
  • Patent number: 5915497
    Abstract: Working platforms for scaffolding must be light and functional and easily stackable. It must therefore be possible to include all their components with a long useful life in the static calculations as well. The requirements include both great rigidity in the corner joint of a rectangular bearing frame for the working platform and the smallest possible gaps between adjacent platforms. Above all, however, the smallest possible number of components must be used to keep the costs of such a working platform within limits. To this end the invention makes use of a U-shaped folded footplate (2) clamped between the longitudinal bearing members (11) of the bearing frame. If, in addition, at least the longitudinal bearing members (11) are rectangular hollow sections, no dirt or residual building material can enter the working platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Krause-Werk GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Gunther Krause
  • Patent number: 5899297
    Abstract: An adjustable workman's bed system including a bed formed of a rigid material in a generally planar configuration having an upper surface and a lower surface and having parallel side edges with an upper edge and a lower edge, the upper edge having a recess in a generally rectilinear configuration extending downwardly from the upper edge and a foot rest extending upwardly from the lower edge, a central support plate with an arcuate recess parallel with the upper and lower edges formed on the lower surface with an upper support plate with a cylindrical recess formed therein on the lower surface of the bed, a base formed of a rigid material with a base plate having an upper surface and a lower surface, a post extending upwardly from a central extent at the upper surface of the base plate with a tube horizontally positioned thereon for pivotally receiving an arcuate recess of the upper support plate, the post having a cylindrical recess therein facing towards the upper edge of the bed, and at least one pin having
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: Christopher M. Clark
  • Patent number: 5894909
    Abstract: A scaffolding assembly having at least one pair of substantially parallel spaced-apart scaffolding components, each of which extends between a pair of substantially vertical spaced-apart uprights and supports a respective end of a deck plate extending therebetween. Each scaffolding component is adapted to receive a respective end of said deck plate and prevent accidental disengagement of said deck plate due to wind or accidental contact. Each end of the scaffolding component is provided with oppositely directed tongues extending laterally therefrom, said tongues being adapted to engage securing means mounted on each of said uprights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1999
    Assignee: SGB Services PLC
    Inventor: John R. E. Cornish
  • Patent number: 5882136
    Abstract: An end cap system for scaffolding planks, especially for hollow core planks formed of fiberglass or other composite materials, is disclosed. The end cap includes an extrusion having a plank-receiving portion on one side and a rib profile on the other side for slidingly receiving scaffolding hooks. A reinforcing member is placed in the hollow core, extending between its walls, and surrounding the fastening device securing the end cap to the plank, to resist deformation of the plank by the compressive force of the fastening device. The end cap permits similar parts to be used for a wide variety of plank widths and allows for replacement of damaged hooks or the exchange of hook configurations, such as between "high" or "low" hooks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Safway Steel Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Mary B. Pyritz, Robert M. Reilly, Stig Karlsen
  • Patent number: 5868220
    Abstract: A support leg comprising an upstanding member and securing means for securing both an elongated member and a platform to the support leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Peritech Systems Public Limited Company
    Inventor: David Ian Seale
  • Patent number: 5865271
    Abstract: A telescopic ledger for scaffolding comprises an elongated ledger member of substantially uniform I-shape in cross section along its length, a front coupling sleeve attached to the ledger member adjacent its front end, and a channel assembly having a pair of elongated channel members and a rear coupling sleeve attached to the channel members proximate to their rear ends. The channel members are of the same substantially uniform U-shaped cross section along their lengths, each channel member having a web portion and side flange portions joined to and extending from side edges of the web portion. The channel members are joined to each other by the rear coupling sleeve in spaced-apart relation with their web portions in opposed relation and defining a cavity and with the side flange portions defining a gap. A portion of the ledger member adjacent to the front end is received in telescopic relation to portions of the channel members adjacent the rear ends of the channel members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: Universal Builders Supply, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan J. Shalders