Multi-functional construction apparatus

Abstract

A multi-function construction apparatus for support of roof loads to prevent slippage, shifting or sliding thereof along and/or from a roof surface. A pair, or more, of multi-function construction apparatuses can be combined with a platform placed thereon for stationing of workpieces and/or equipment. In an alternate embodiment, a pair, or more, of additional stands with a platform thereacross are placed down-roof from a pair, or more, of multi-function construction apparatuses with a platform thereon. The resulting construct provides a standing area for a worker on the lower platform with a work area on the upper platform, while simultaneously supporting the roof load up-roof from the multi-function construction apparatuses.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates generally to sawhorses, and more specifically to an adjustable, multi-functional construction apparatus that functions as a sawhorse and a material stop for supporting loads and providing a working platform on sloping surfaces, such as roofs. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] During construction of buildings, particularly those with sloping roofs, it is often necessary to work while positioned on sloping portions of the roofs. Such work carries with it hazards due to the slope of the roof, and further makes the positioning and storage of materials on the roof quite difficult. Moreover, the lack of support for loads on a roof surface further promotes hazardous conditions; as such, a load can shift, slip, or slide from its position on the roof, endangering construction workers and other persons located below. Since a worker typically faces up-roof when working with equipment or workpieces, the lack of a standing platform, and the l...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0016] Another feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to provide a stable, horizontally-level platform upon which a construction worker may stand.

[0017] Still another feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to provide a rooftop level work area upon which workpieces and / or equipment may be placed.

[0018] Yet another feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to adjust to roofs of different pitch.

[0019] Yet still another feature and advantage of the present invention is ability to be rapidly assembled and disassembled.

[0020] A further feature and advantage of the present invention is its ability to be reused.

[0021] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to one skilled in the art from the following description and claims when read in light of the accompanying drawings.

Problems solved by technology

Such work carries with it hazards due to the slope of the roof, and further makes the positioning and storage of materials on the roof quite difficult.

Moreover, the lack of support for loads on a roof surface further promotes hazardous conditions; as such, a load can shift, slip, or slide from its position on the roof, endangering construction workers and other persons located below.

Since a worker typically faces up-roof when working with equipment or workpieces, the lack of a standing platform, and the lack of a work platform higher than the standing platform, prevents workers from performing operations on materials while in a normal working posture.

However, such unbraced leg could potentially collapse under high loads.

Furthermore, such device does not provide for support of materials positioned adjacent the front leg of the device, wherein such materials exert a down-roof force against the unbraced leg that can cause collapse, with consequent release of the materials positioned thereagainst.

However, such an arrangement or mechanism is susceptible to disengagement, as the side supports may come free of the bar; thereby, causing the front leg to collapse.

In such circumstances, material supported against the front leg may break free, slide and / or tumble from the roof.

Furthermore, upon collapse of the front leg, any persons working on platforms above such a device may be deposited abruptly upon the roof surface with the possibility of consequent injury.

Additionally, other prior-art devices have lacked a secondary support apparatus that can be utilized in conjunction with a first platform, wherein material can be stationed on the roof and secured by the secondary support apparatus while a worker standing on the first platform performs construction operations.

Such an awkward position strains the physical posture of the worker, possibly leading to injury and / or fatigue.

Such an awkward position is further hazardous, as the position of the worker relative to the equipment and workpiece is unusual; thus, forcing work to be performed contrary to the design of equipment being utilized.

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