Modular scaffolding cladding system

Abstract

A modular scaffolding cladding system comprises vertically aligned rail sections connected by rail connectors, defining side track channels for receiving beaded edges of cladding sheets. The rail connectors include feed-through track channels that align with the side track channels. An unspooling assembly feeds a series of rectangular cladding sheets with beaded side, top, and bottom edges up between the rails from rolls mounted on connection crossbars. The connection crossbars include connection channels that link the top and bottom edges of consecutive cladding sheets, ensuring continuous alignment. Feed-on accessories at the rail bottoms facilitate smooth entry of the beaded edges into the track channels. This system streamlines cladding installation and removal, maintaining consistent tension and secure attachment. It enhances weatherproofing, debris containment, and worker safety while providing a modular and adaptable solution for various scaffolding configurations.

Description

Modular Scaffolding Cladding SystemField of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to scaffolding systems and, more particularly, to a modular system for cladding scaffolding structures. It concerns methods and apparatus for securely attaching and aligning cladding sheets to scaffolding, providing enhanced weatherproofing, debris containment, and worker safety during construction, maintenance, and renovation projects.Background of the Invention

[0002] Cladding scaffolding structures is a common practice in construction, renovation, and maintenance projects to provide weatherproofing, improve worker safety, and contain debris. However, achieving secure and efficient cladding remains a significant challenge, especially for large and complex scaffolding structures. Traditional methods often involve manually attaching individual sheets to scaffolding poles using straps, ties, or fasteners, which can be time-consuming and result in inconsistent sealing and uneven coverage.

[0003] WO 1994 / 023153 (Maaseide) 13 October 1994 discloses a device for attaching cloth to a scaffold, in which cladding material is secured to the scaffold using a rope and fastening elements along the periphery of the cladding sheets. While this approach provides a means of attaching flexible sheeting to scaffolding, it relies on multiple manual fastening operations that require precise alignment and tensioning. The method does not facilitate efficient large-scale deployment, as each sheet must be individually secured, and adjustments to alignment often necessitate detachment and repositioning. Moreover, the attachment points introduce potential gaps, compromising weatherproofing and debris containment.

[0004] US 5,613,543 (Walton) describes a system for securing protective sheeting to scaffolding using a track arrangement, wherein cladding sheets are inserted into channels along the scaffolding frame. While this system allows for sliding engagement of sheets within defined channels, the process of inserting individualsheets into the track requires manual handling at elevated positions, increasing installation time and the risk of misalignment.

[0005] Existing solutions lack an efficient and scalable approach for deploying cladding sheets while ensuring consistent tension, secure alignment, and ease of installation. The reliance on manual fastening, incremental attachment, and discontinuous alignment processes results in inefficiencies, increased labour requirements, and potential weaknesses in the installed cladding .

[0006] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.Summary of the Disclosure

[0007] The present invention provides a modular scaffolding cladding system designed to address the inefficiencies and challenges of traditional cladding methods. The system comprises rails formed from a series of vertically aligned rail sections interconnected by rail connectors. Each rail section defines side track channels for receiving beaded edges of rectangular cladding sheets, while the rail connectors include feed-through track channels that align with the side track channels. These features enable smooth and uninterrupted movement of cladding sheets along the rails.

[0008] The cladding sheets, with beaded edges along their sides, top, and bottom, are fed between a pair of rails and secured using horizontal connection crossbars with dual connection channels. These crossbars connect adjacent cladding sheets at their top and bottom edges and move upward with the sheets during installation. This arrangement ensures consistent tension and alignment of the cladding sheets, providing a secure and weatherproof seal.

[0009] The system comprises an unspooling assembly configured for feeding a series of rectangular cladding sheets comprising beaded side, top, and bottom edges up between the rails from rolls. The rolls are supported by connection crossbars having connection channels that connect the respective top and bottom edges of consecutive cladding sheets together. This modular feeding mechanism significantly reducesmanual handling, improving the speed and efficiency of cladding installation. Unlike prior methods that require individual handling of cladding sheets, the unspooling assembly allows multiple sheets to be sequentially drawn up between the rails while maintaining controlled tension and precise alignment. The system also facilitates efficient take-down operations, as the cladding sheets can be sequentially lowered by reversing the unspooling process, allowing them to be rolled back onto the connection crossbars for easy removal and reuse.

[0010] The unspooling assembly may include feed-on accessories positioned at the bottom ends of the rails, which define feed-through track channels with funnelled entrances and constrictions. These features guide the beaded edges smoothly into the side track channels, even when transitioning through bends. The structured feeding process minimises snagging and misalignment, ensuring an efficient and continuous installation workflow.

[0011] The rail sections optionally include rear connection channels with slot profiles that enable secure attachment to scaffolding poles using rail connector brackets. These brackets, with tongues that slot into the rear connection channels and bolts to secure them in place, provide a robust interface between the rails and the scaffolding.

[0012] Intermediate and top or bottom end crossbar connection brackets may be used to attach the crossbars to the rails. These brackets may include open channels to non-rotatably capture rectangular sections of the crossbars, with aligned apertures for connection pins to secure the crossbars in place. The intermediate brackets may further include T-headed fasteners for connection to the rear channels of the rails, allowing secure and modular attachment of crossbars.

[0013] The combination of the unspooling assembly, guided feeding system, and modular rail design offers several advantages over prior art solutions. By automating and streamlining the deployment of cladding sheets, the system reduces installation time, improves safety by minimising manual handling at elevated positions, and enhances weatherproofing by ensuring consistent tension and secure alignment. The modularity of the system allows for adaptability across various scaffoldingconfigurations, making it a versatile solution for cladding in construction, renovation, and maintenance projects.

[0014] According to one aspect, there is provided a modular scaffolding cladding system comprising rails formed from a series of rail sections connected in vertical alignment by rail connectors. Each rail section defines side track channels that align with feed-through track channels defined by the rail connectors. The system further includes an unspooling assembly configured for unrolling respective side beaded edges of a rectangular cladding sheet mounted on a connection crossbar up the side track channels, wherein the connection crossbar is connected to a bottom beaded edge of the rectangular cladding sheet, follows the cladding sheet up between the rails and is connected to a top beaded edge of a next cladding sheet.

[0015] The unspooling assembly may include feed-on accessories positioned at the bottom ends of the rails, with each feed-on accessory defining feed-through track channels that align with the side track channels of the rail sections. These feed- through track channels can transition through a bend and incorporate funnelled entrances and constrictions, ensuring smooth guidance of the beaded edges into the side track channels.

[0016] In some arrangements, each feed-through track channel constricts from the entrance to an exit of a smaller diameter than the side track channel of a rail section. This arrangement ensures a controlled passage of the beaded edges while preventing misalignment or excessive movement.

[0017] To facilitate seamless engagement, the rail connectors can be designed to physically separate the ends of adjacent rail sections, preventing any misalignment that could interfere with the sliding movement of the beaded edges along the track.

[0018] Each rail section may further define a rear connection channel with a slot profile leading into a widened interior. A rail connector bracket can be used to secure the rail section to the scaffolding structure, with the bracket featuring a tongue that is wider than the entrance of the connection channel but narrower than its interior, allowing it to slide securely into place.

[0019] A rail connector bracket may also include a bolt-engagement mechanism, where tightening the bolt urges the tongue against the entrance of the rear connection channel, ensuring a firm and stable connection between the rail section and the scaffolding.

[0020] Rail connectors may further define interior T-shaped ends that slot into the interiors of rail section ends. These T-shaped ends can feature a void to accommodate a nut, with aligned apertures for a bolt that, when tightened, presses the nut against an adjacent rail section to secure the connection.

[0021] The connection crossbars may incorporate a rectangular section adjacent to the connection channels, providing a rigid structure that interfaces with crossbar connection brackets.

[0022] A top crossbar connector bracket can be used to attach a connection crossbar at the upper end of the rails. This bracket may include an open channel designed to non-rotatably capture an end of the rectangular section of the connection crossbar. In some instances, the open channel and the rectangular section may define aligned apertures to receive connecting pins, ensuring a secure attachment.

[0023] Intermediate crossbar connection brackets may be employed to secure intermediate connection crossbars between adjacent cladding sheets. These brackets may incorporate an open channel and a T -headed fastener, with the fastener featuring an elongate head that fits through an entrance of a rear connection channel on the rail section. When tightened, the nut pulls the elongate head against the entrance, locking the intermediate crossbar connection bracket securely in place.

[0024] A method of cladding scaffolding is also provided, comprising placing the rails in vertical alignment by connecting adjacent rail sections using rail connectors, installing the unspooling assembly at the bottom ends of the rails, and positioning a roll of a rectangular cladding sheet mounted on a connection crossbar within the unspooling assembly. The cladding sheet is then unrolled from the connection crossbar, guided into the side track channels of the rails, and drawn upwards. Once fully extended, the connection crossbar is detached from the unspooling assemblyand secured to the top edge of a next rectangular cladding sheet and follow the rectangular cladding sheet up between the rails.

[0025] To assist in feeding the beaded side edges into the track channels, feed-on accessories positioned at the bottom ends of the rails may include feed-through track channels with funnelled entrances and bends. These features guide the beaded edges smoothly into the rail system without the risk of snagging or misalignment.

[0026] Intermediate crossbars may be connected between adjacent cladding sheets using intermediate crossbar connection brackets, which can be secured to the rails via T-headed fasteners engaging the rear connection channels of the rail sections.

[0027] At the upper ends of the rails, a top connection crossbar may be secured using a top crossbar connector bracket, where the bracket includes an open channel designed to non-rotatably capture the top connection crossbar.

[0028] Following installation, the unspooling assembly can be removed and reused for cladding another scaffolding bay while leaving the cladding sheets and connection crossbars in place.

[0029] For removal, the system allows for controlled disassembly by rolling each cladding sheet back around its respective connection crossbar and lowering it between the rails, facilitating easy retrieval and reuse.

[0030] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0031] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0032] Figure 1 shows scaffolding erected in the conventional manner with corner posts, side brackets, and crossbars connected to anchor brackets.

[0033] Figure 2 shows rail connector brackets installed on corner posts and connected to their anchor brackets.

[0034] Figure 3 shows rail sections mounted on rail connector brackets, with adjacent rail sections connected by rail connectors, and feed-on accessories installed at the bottom edges of the lowermost rail sections.

[0035] Figure 4 shows side support brackets of the unspooling assembly with an axle installed between the bearings.

[0036] Figure 5 shows the unspooling assembly configured to hold rolls of cladding sheets.

[0037] Figures 6 and 7 shows a scaffolding bay covered with a pair of cladding sheets secured by rails and connection crossbars.

[0038] Figure 8 shows angled rail connectors used to clad non-rectangular scaffolding.

[0039] Figure 9 shows feed-on accessories attached to the bottom ends of the rails, defining feed-through track channels that transition through a bend.

[0040] Figure 10 shows an intermediate crossbar connection bracket installed on the rails.

[0041] Figure 1 1 shows a top end crossbar connection bracket securing a crossbar to the upper ends of the rails.

[0042] Figure 13 shows a rail section with a rear connection channel having a slot profile leading into a widened interior.

[0043] Figure 14 shows a low-profile connection crossbar for connecting vertically aligned cladding sheets.

[0044] Figure 15 shows a crossbar with a rectangular section adjacent to the connection channels.

[0045] Figure 16 shows a rail connector bracket in detail, illustrating the tongue and its engagement with a rail section.

[0046] Figure 17 shows an intermediate crossbar connection bracket with an open channel and a T-headed fastener.

[0047] Figure 18 shows the end crossbar connection bracket in detail, including an open channel and connection pin apertures.

[0048] Figure 19 shows a feed-on accessory comprising an interior T-shaped end for connection to a rail section.

[0049] Figure 22 shows a feed-through channel in a rail connector with a constriction at its exit.

[0050] Figure 23 shows a rail connector with a directional indicator for orienting the feed-through channel.

[0051] Figure 24 shows the rail connector separating adjacent rail sections and preventing sharp edges.

[0052] Figure 25 shows an embodiment of a lifting bar accessory configured to hoist the uppermost cladding sheet by its uppermost connection crossbar.Description of Embodiments

[0053] Figure 7 illustrates a modular cladding system 100 for scaffolding. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the scaffolding 101 is a single bay comprising four corner posts 102 interconnected by side bars 103 and crossbars 104. The corner posts 102 include orthogonal anchor brackets 105 to which the side bars 103 and crossbars 104 are attached in various configurations.

[0054] The system 100 includes rails 106 made up of a series of rail sections 108, as depicted in Figure 13. These rail sections are typically aluminium extrusions. Referring to Figure 10, the rail sections 108 are vertically aligned and connected using rail connectors 109, illustrated in Figures 22-24. These rail connectors 109 are generally made of plastic and may be monolithically formed in a single piece through an injection moulding process.

[0055] As shown in Figure 13, the rail sections 108 define a pair of slide track channels 1 10 designed to accommodate beaded side edges 1 1 1 of rectangular cladding sheets 1 12, which can be made of fabric, plastic, mesh, or similar materials. The beaded edge 1 1 1 has a diameter larger than the sheet 1 12 itself, preventing it from passing sideways through the slide track channels 1 10, though it can slide along them. The beaded edge 1 1 1 may incorporate a core, such as rope, around which the edge of the sheet is folded and stitched, although this is not strictly necessary.

[0056] The rail connectors 109 include feedthrough track channels 1 13, which align with the slide track channels 1 10 of the connected rail sections 108.

[0057] The system 100 incorporates multiple cladding sheets 1 12 that can be installed in vertical alignment along the side of the scaffolding bay 101 , as shown in Figure 7.Each cladding sheet 1 12 has beaded side edges 1 1 1 A as well as beaded top and bottom edges 1 1 1 B.

[0058] The system 100 also includes horizontal sheet connection crossbars 1 14 that extend horizontally between the vertical rails 106. These crossbars 1 14 are used to connect the beaded top and / or bottom edges 1 1 1 B of the cladding sheets 1 12.

[0059] The system 100 is designed to allow for quick, easy, and modular cladding of scaffolding. Referring again to Figure 7, the system 100 facilitates the feeding of a series of rectangular cladding sheets 1 12 between the pair of vertical side rails 106, with their beaded side edges 1 1 1 A sliding through the inner slide track channels 1 10 of the rail sections 108 and continuing through the inner feedthrough track channels 1 13 of the rail connectors 109. Furthermore, the beaded top and / or bottom edges are connected by connection channels 1 15 of horizontal sheet connection crossbars 1 14.

[0060] As each cladding sheet 1 12 is fed upwards between the rails 106, an additional cladding sheet 1 12 can be connected to its bottom edge using an intermediate connection crossbar 1 14. These interconnecting crossbars 1 14 move upwards with the cladding sheets 1 12, joining them together as they are drawn between the rails 106.

[0061] In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the scaffolding bay 101 is 10 metres high, and the system 100 includes two rectangular cladding sheets 1 12, each measuring 5 metres in height, thereby covering the full 10-metre height of the scaffolding 101. Each rectangular cladding sheet 1 12 may be 1.4 metres wide, corresponding to the width of the scaffolding bay 101. Cladding sheets of various widths may be provided to accommodate different scaffolding bay widths, such as 1.2, 1.8 metres and the like.

[0062] Additionally, the rail sections 108 may have a length matching the corner posts 102 and a width corresponding to the diameter of the corner posts 102. Thus, for a dual-level scaffolding bay (i.e., where each corner of the scaffolding 101 consists of two vertically aligned corner posts 102), each rail 106 may comprise two rail sections 108 connected by a rail connector 109 in between.

[0063] The two cladding sheets 1 12 are connected together by their beaded bottom and top edges 1 1 1 B via a common connection crossbar 1 14 located between them. The beaded top edge 1 1 1 B of the upper cladding sheet 1 12 is attached to an upper connection crossbar 1 14, while the beaded bottom edge 1 1 1 B of the lower cladding sheet 1 12 is similarly connected to its own bottom connection crossbar 1 14.

[0064] Preferably, the upper connection crossbar 1 14 is fed upward with the cladding sheets 1 12, assisting in pulling the top edge 1 1 1 B of the upper cladding sheet 1 12 between the rails 106. Alternatively, it can be installed after the top edge 1 1 1 B of the upper cladding sheet 1 12 reaches the top of the scaffolding 101 .

[0065] Referring to Figure 5, the system 100 may include an unspooling assembly 1 16 designed to conveniently hold rolls 1 17 of cladding sheets 1 12. As shown in Figure 9, the unspooling assembly 1 16 may comprise a pair of side support brackets 1 18 that attach to anchor brackets 105 using conventional scaffolding wedges 1 19. These support brackets 1 18 support an axle via bearings 120, allowing the roll 1 17 to unwind and feed the cladding sheet 1 12 between the rails 106.

[0066] The roll 1 17 may be provided on a connection crossbar 1 14, which is mounted between the bearings 120. As the roll 1 17 unwinds, the top edge 1 1 1 B of the next cladding sheet 1 12 can be connected to the connection crossbar 1 14, which is then pulled up the rails 106. This process connects and raises cladding sheets 1 12 between the rails 106 in turn, significantly reducing installation time. The removal procedure involves the reverse operation, wherein each sheet 1 12 is rolled back around its corresponding horizontal sheet connection crossbar 1 14 as it is lowered between the rails 106.

[0067] Figure 25 illustrates an embodiment of a lifting bar accessory 161 , which is configured to hoist the uppermost cladding sheet 1 12 by its uppermost connection crossbar 1 14. The lifting bar accessory 161 comprises a beam 162 with spaced apart engagement tines 164, configured to insert into the ends of the uppermost connection crossbar 1 14. The beam 162 may include female portions 162A at either end that slide relative to a central male portion 162B to adjust the position of the engagement tines 164. This sliding movement is facilitated by removable pins 165, which securethe female portions 162A to the central male portion 162B through aligned apertures. By removing the pins 165, the female portions 162A can be adjusted to accommodate different widths or positions of the uppermost connection crossbar 1 14 before being locked in place again.

[0068] The beam 162 may incorporates plastic skids 166, which are affixed to the beam and which may include a slight curvature or radius on one side. This curvature enables the lifting bar accessory 161 to glide smoothly along external aluminum tracks, even when traversing minor elevations such as rail connector 109. The plastic skids 166 also reduce friction.

[0069] The lifting bar accessory 161 may comprises a centrally located lug 167, such as an eyelet, which serves as the lifting point. The lug 167 can be adjusted left or right by adjusting clamp screws to ensure a balanced centre of lift, enhancing safety and control. This lug 167 is designed to connect to a halyard, pulley system, or similar mechanism, facilitating the hoisting and lowering of the uppermost connection crossbar 1 14 with precision and ease.

[0070] In some embodiments, the beam 162 may be modularly assembled to suit various scaffold configurations. The central male portion 162B slidably engages with the female portions 162A at each end. Locking pins 165 inserted through aligned apertures secure these components together, enabling straightforward assembly and disassembly. Additionally, the lug 167 may be attached to a separate female portion 163 that engages the male portion 162B. Clamp bolts can secure the male portion 162B within the female portion 163, providing a flexible and robust lifting solution.

[0071] Once the cladding sheets 1 12 are installed, the unspooling assembly 1 16 can be removed, leaving the cladding sheets 1 12, rails 106, and connection crossbars 1 14 in place, as shown in Figures 6 and 7.

[0072] With reference to Figure 9, the unspooling assembly 1 16 may also include feed-on accessories 121 , which are attached to the bottom ends of each rail 106, as detailed in Figures 19-21 . These accessories 121 are designed to guide the side edges 1 1 1 A of the cladding sheets 1 12 into the slide track channels 1 10 of the rail sections 108. Each feed-on accessory 121 defines feedthrough track channels 122that align with the slide track channels 1 10. Figure 9 shows a cross-section of these feedthrough track channels 122, revealing a transition through a bend of approximately 45°. Additionally, the feedthrough track channels 122 may include a widened or funnelled entrance 123, oriented towards the roll 1 17 of cladding sheet 1 12, and an exit 124 that interfaces with the corresponding slide track channel 1 10 of the rail section 108. The exit 124 may feature a constriction 125, defin ing a diameter slightly smaller (e.g., by 1 mm) than that of the slide track channel 1 10, ensuring smooth feeding of the beaded side edges 1 1 1 A without snagging.

[0073] In the embodiment shown in Figure 9, the roll 1 17 of cladding sheet 1 12 unrolls from its bottom edge. The feed-on accessories 121 , positioned near the bottom edge with entrances 123 facing it, guide the beaded side edges 1 1 1 A through the 45° bend and into alignment with the vertical rails 106. The constriction 125 ensures the beaded edges 1 1 1 A feed smoothly into the slide track channels 1 10.

[0074] Referring to Figures 22-24, the feedthrough track channels 1 13 of the rail connectors 109 may also define an entrance 123, an exit 124, and a constriction 125, which ensures the beaded side edges 1 1 1 A of the cladding sheets 1 12 transition smoothly into the slide track channels 1 10 of the next rail section 108. Figure 23 illustrates that the rail connector 109 may include a directional indicator 126 to aid in orienting the entrance 123 relative to the exit 124. When installed, the rail connector 109 positions the entrance 123 downward so that the constriction 125 facilitates smooth feeding of the beaded edges 1 1 1 A upward. During removal, the smaller exit 124 ensures the beaded edges 1 1 1 A are not snagged by sharp rail section edges.

[0075] In Figure 24, the rail connector 109 may maintain physical separation between adjacent rail sections 108, preventing sharp edges from arising due to adjacent misalignment. The feedthrough channel 1 13 may define annular faces 127 that press against the respective ends of the rail sections 108, holding them apart.

[0076] In the embodiment of Figure 4, the rail connector 109 is a straight connector. However, Figure 12 shows a variant featuring an angled rail connector 109 with an angle of approximately 45°. This angled rail connector 109 is useful for connecting rail sections 108 at an angle, as shown in Figure 8, to clad non-rectangular structures.

[0077] With reference to Figure 13, each rail section 108 may include a rear connection channel 128, which defines a slot profile with a narrow entrance 129 leading to a widened interior 130. Figure 9 illustrates the use of a rail connector bracket 131 for attaching a rail section 108 to the scaffolding 101 , such as to an anchor bracket 105 on a vertical corner post 102. As shown in Figure 16, the rail connector bracket 131 includes a tongue 132 configured to slide into the rear connection channel 128. The tongue 132 has a width greater than the entrance 129 but smaller than the widened interior 130, allowing it to slide into the rail section 108 while preventing rearward removal. The rail connector bracket 131 includes a rear connector loop fastener 133, shown in Figure 9, which may comprise a fixed spoon 134 that fits into the anchor bracket 105 and a wedge 135 that secures the loop.

[0078] The tongue 132 can further engage a bolt 136, which, when tightened, presses the tongue 132 against the channel entrance 129, securing it within the widened interior 130.

[0079] Figure 23 shows that the rail connector 109 may include interior T -shaped ends 137 designed to fit into the ends of adjacent rail sections 108. These T-shaped ends 137 have a neck 138 that passes through the entrance 129 and a widened head 139 that fits within the widened interior 130 but cannot pass through the entrance 129. The T-shaped ends 137 include a void 140 for holding a nut and aligned apertures 141 for a bolt, which, when tightened, presses the nut against the rail section 108, securing the rail connector 109. The nut may be a hex nut with parallel sides, fitting snugly in the void 140 to prevent rotation during tightening. The void’s entrance may feature teeth 142 to engage a protective cover for the nut.

[0080] Figure 19 illustrates that the feed-on accessory 121 may also include an interior T-shaped end 137, which fits onto and connects to the end of a rail section 108.

[0081] Figure 14 depicts a low-profile connection crossbar 1 14A designed for connecting between cladding sheets 1 12 in a compact manner. In this embodiment, the connection channel 1 15 is defined between a pair of curved limbs 143 connectedby a bridge 144. The bridge 144 provides a flat surface, allowing the interconnected cladding sheets 1 12 to achieve a flush finish.

[0082] Figure 15 shows another variation of the connection crossbar 1 14B, which includes a rectangular section 145 adjacent to the connection channel 1 15. This rectangular section 145 is preferably hollow. Referring to Figure 1 1 , the system 100 may also include a top or bottom end crossbar connection bracket 146A, which connects the connection crossbar 1 14 between respective rail sections 108. As shown in greater detail in Figure 18, the crossbar connection bracket 146A features an open channel 147 formed by a web 148 and side flanges 149 that securely hold the rectangular section 145 of the connection crossbar 1 14.

[0083] In Figure 1 1 , a pair of these crossbar connection brackets 146A is installed at the upper ends of the uppermost rail sections 108, with their channels 147 oriented outwardly. The uppermost connection crossbar 1 14B is positioned horizontally between these brackets 146A, with its rectangular section 145 fitting into the open channels 147. Figure 1 1 further illustrates that the beaded top edge 1 1 1 B of the uppermost cladding sheet 1 12 is attached to the connection channel 1 15 of this uppermost connection crossbar 1 14B.

[0084] The end crossbar connection bracket 146B may include a vertical tongue 150 that slots into the connection channel 128 of the rail section 108, as shown in Figure 1 1 , and is secured by tightening a bolt 151. The vertical tongue 150 may be oriented orthogonally to the channel 147 and centrally aligned so that connection crossbars 1 14 can be installed on either side.

[0085] In a preferred embodiment, the flanges 149 define aligned apertures 152 for connection pins 153. The ends of the connection crossbar 1 14 may also include aligned apertures. The channel 147 may include a central crosspiece 153, such that when the end of the connection crossbar 1 14 is inserted into the channel 147, the apertures align, allowing for straightforward insertion of the connection pin 153. Each connection pin 153 may define a widened head 154 that prevents it from passing through the apertures 152 and a distal end secured with a non-releasable securement loop 155 attached to the head 154.

[0086] Figure 17 shows an intermediate crossbar connection bracket 146B, which also includes an open channel 147 but is installed in a sideways orientation, as shown in Figure 10. This intermediate crossbar connection bracket 146B is typically used to connect vertically adjacent cladding sheets 1 12 at intermediate locations, in contrast to the end crossbar connection bracket 146A.

[0087] The open channel 147 of the intermediate crossbar connection bracket 146B may also comprise a web 148, flanges 149, and securement pins 153, similar to the uppermost bracket. However, the intermediate bracket 146B incorporates a T -headed fastener 156 with an elongate head 157 that fits through the entrance 129 of the rear connection channel 128 of the rail section 108. The fastener 156 includes a threaded stem 158 engaging a nut 159 through the web 148. Once the elongate head 157 is inserted through the entrance 129 and rotated out of alignment, tightening the nut 159 secures the bracket to the rail section 108. The flanges 147 define side slots 160 that precisely fit around the rail section 108.

[0088] Figures 1 -7 illustrate the cladding of scaffolding 101 using the present system 100, described in the context of covering the side of a single scaffolding bay 101 . Figure 1 shows the scaffolding 101 erected conventionally, with corner posts 102, side bars 103, and crossbars 104 connected via anchor brackets 105.

[0089] Figure 2 illustrates the installation of rail connector brackets 131 along the corner posts 102, attached to the anchor brackets 105. Figure 3 depicts rail sections 108 mounted on these rail connector brackets 131. As described earlier, the ends of the rear connection channels 128 of the rail sections 108 slide onto the tongues 132 of the rail connector brackets 131 and are secured by tightening their bolts 136. Vertically adjacent rail sections 108 are connected using rail connectors 109, and feed-on accessories 121 are installed on the bottom edges of the lowermost rail sections 108.

[0090] Figure 4 demonstrates the installation of side support brackets 1 18 for the unspooling assembly 1 16, with an axle positioned between the bearings 120. This axle may be a connection crossbar 1 14. Figure 15 shows a cladding sheet 1 12 rolled around this crossbar 1 14, supported by the unspooling assembly 1 16. The beadedtop edge 1 11 B of the cladding sheet 1 12 is connected to a crossbar 114, which is pulled upward between the rails 106 while the beaded side edges 1 1 1A feed through the feed-on accessories 121 and into the slide track channels 110 of the rail sections 108.

[0091] As the cladding sheet 112 is fully unspooled, its connection crossbar 114 can be disconnected from the bearings 120, attached to the top edge 1 11 B of the next cladding sheet 112, and pulled upward between the rails 106. This process is repeated to feed multiple cladding sheets 112 until the scaffolding 101 is fully clad.

[0092] Once in position, intermediate connection crossbars 1 14 are attached using intermediate crossbar connection brackets 146B, as shown in Figure 17. The uppermost and bottommost connection crossbar 1 14 may be secured using the end crossbar connection bracket 146A.

[0093] After the cladding sheets 112 are installed and secured, the unspooling assembly 116 can be dismantled and moved to the next bay (not shown) to repeat the process. This modular system allows cladding sheets 112 to be quickly and easily fed between the rails 106, securely held in place by edge connections to the rail sections 108 and horizontal sheet connection crossbars 114. The feed-on accessories 121 ensure smooth alignment at the bottom rail sections, while the rail connectors 109 facilitate seamless transitions between rail sections.

[0094] The unspooling assembly 116 can be used across multiple scaffolding bays to completely enclose the scaffolding 101. Figure 8 demonstrates the use of angled rail connectors 109 for cladding non-rectangular scaffolding. In this embodiment, a single cladding sheet 112 is continuously fed over irregularly shaped scaffolding, such as an arch, and secured at its edges 1 11 A using crossbar connectors 1 14.

[0095] In the example shown in Figure 7, one side of the scaffolding 101 is clad with two cladding sheets 1 12 secured by their beaded side edges 1 11 A between the rails 106 and attached to uppermost, intermediate, and bottom crossbars 1 14. This orthogonal connection holds the cladding sheets 112 taut and secure, preventing flapping in the wind. Different materials, such as plastic for waterproofing or mesh for wind resistance, can be used for the cladding sheets 1 12. The modular system 100,with its reusable rectangular cladding sheets 112, eliminates the need for custom cutting and promotes repeated use.

[0096] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practise the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed as obviously many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the following claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims1 . A modular scaffolding cladding system comprising: rails comprising a series of rail sections connected vertically in alignment by rail connectors, the rail sections defining side track channels aligning with feed- through track channels defined by the rail connectors; and an unspooling assembly configured for unrolling respective side beaded edges of a rectangular cladding sheet mounted on a connection crossbar up the side track channels, wherein the connection crossbar is connected to a bottom beaded edge of the rectangular cladding sheet, follows the cladding sheet up between the rails and is connected to a top beaded edge of a next cladding sheet.

2. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 1 , wherein the unspooling assembly comprises feed-on accessories defining funnelled feed-through track channels that transition through a bend.

3. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 1 , wherein each feed-through track channel funnels to a diameter less than that of a side track channel.

4. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 1 , wherein the rail connectors physically separate ends of respective rail sections connected thereto.

5. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 3, wherein the feed-through track channels transition through a bend.

6. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 1 , wherein the rail sections define rear connection channels comprising a slot profile with an entrance leading into a widened interior, and wherein the system further comprises a rail connector bracket configured to connect the rail sections to scaffolding, the rail connector bracket comprising a tongue wider than the entrance and narrower than the interior, configured for slotting into an end of the rail section.

7. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 6, wherein the connector bracket engages a bolt through the tongue, urging the tongue against the entrance to secure the tongue within the interior.

8. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 1 , wherein each rail connector defines interior T-shaped ends configured to slot into ends of respective rail sections.

9. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 8, wherein a T-shaped end defines a void configured to receive and non-rotatably engage a nut therein and aligned apertures for a bolt to screw through the nut to press against an adjacent rail section.

10. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 1 , wherein the crossbar comprises a rectangular section adjacent to the connection channels.1 1 . The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 10, wherein the system further comprises a top crossbar connector bracket configured to connect a crossbar at an end of the rails to a rail section, the top crossbar connector bracket comprising an open channel configured to non-rotatably capture an end of the rectangular section.

12. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 1 1 , wherein the open channel and the end of the rectangular section define aligned connecting pin apertures.

13. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 1 1 , wherein the top crossbar connector bracket comprises a tongue orthogonally interfacing the open channel and configured to slot into a rear connection channel of an end of a respective rail section.

14. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 1 , wherein the system further comprises an intermediate crossbar connection bracket comprising: an open channel configured to capture a respective connection crossbar; and a central T-headed fastener with an elongate head configured to fit through an entrance of a rear connection channel of a rail section, the fastener including a threaded stem engaging a nut, wherein, when the nut is tightened, the elongate head rotates out of alignment with the entrance and is pulled against the entrance, thereby securing the intermediate crossbar connection bracket to the rail section.

15. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 14, wherein side flanges of the open channel define slots for the rail section.

16. The modular scaffolding cladding system of claim 14, wherein the open channel and the end of the rectangular section define aligned connecting pin apertures.

17. A method of cladding scaffolding comprising: installing rails in vertical alignment on the scaffolding by connecting adjacent rail sections with rail connectors; installing the unspooling assembly at the bottom ends of the rails and placing a roll of a rectangular cladding sheet mounted on a connection crossbar in the unspooling assembly, wherein the connection crossbar is connected to a bottom beaded edge of the rectangular cladding sheet; unrolling the cladding sheet from the connection crossbar; feeding side beaded edges of the cladding sheet up respective side track channels defined by the rail sections; disconnecting the connection crossbar from the unspooling assembly; and connecting the connection crossbar to the top beaded edge of a next cladding sheet and wherein the connection crossbar follows up between the cladding sheet and the next cladding sheet up between the rails.

18. The method of claim 17, further feeding side edges of the cladding sheet into the side track channels via feed-on accessories defining funnelled feed-through track channels that transition through a bend.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising connecting intermediate crossbars to intermediate crossbar connection brackets, the intermediate crossbar connection brackets being secured to the rails by T-headed fasteners engaging rear connection channels of the rail sections.

20. The method of claim 17, further comprising securing a top connection crossbar to the upper ends of the rails using a top crossbar connector bracket comprising an open channel configured to non-rotatably capture the top connection crossbar.21 . The method of claim 17, further comprising removing the unspooling assembly and reusing it for cladding another scaffolding bay, while leaving already installed cladding sheets and connection crossbars in place.

22. The method of claim 17, further comprising disassembling the cladding system by rolling each cladding sheet back around its corresponding connection crossbar and lowering it between the rails for removal.

Images