Apparatus for installing building material in a substantially vertical orientation and mobile elevated work platform

Abstract

The utility model discloses a device for installing building material in substantially perpendicular direction and mobile lifting work platform, and building material (107 in figure 1) for example is pipeline, and device 201 includes long installation column 202, and long installation column is configured to be attached to mobile lifting work platform (101 in figure 1), and head support 203, and head support is configured to support building material. Head support is attached to long installation column, and head support includes rotating mechanism, and the rotating mechanism is configured to rotate head support between first position and second position, in first position, building material is kept in substantially horizontal position to load, in second position, building material is kept in substantially perpendicular position to install. First locking pin 405 is configured to lock head support in first position or second position.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to UK patent application No. 24 16 231.5, filed on 4 November 2024, and to European patent application No. 24 210 563.3, filed on 4 November 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This utility model relates to a device for installing building materials in a substantially vertical direction and a mobile lifting work platform, wherein the building materials are, for example, pipes, and the mobile lifting work platform includes the device. Background Technology

[0004] Mobile lift work platforms (MEWPs) are commonly used in construction and warehouse environments to allow workers to access desired areas. Applicable MEWPs include cherry pickers and scissor lifts, typically consisting of a power unit and a platform, usually a suspended basket for workers to stand on. MEWPs are configured to be moved to different heights or areas via the power unit.

[0005] When using mobile lifting work platforms, it is usually necessary to include material handling equipment so that workers can transport or place building materials or work materials to the required areas of the construction site.

[0006] In the field of siphon drainage systems, mobile lifting work platforms are used to enable workers to install drainage pipes at both horizontal and vertical angles within the siphon drainage system. Material handling equipment is sometimes used for horizontal material installation, which provides a supporting structure within the basket of the mobile lifting work platform.

[0007] In contrast, when securing drainage pipes or other materials in a substantially vertical orientation, workers may attach the pipe to the side of the mobile sling lift's basket (typically using temporary ties or ropes to hold the pipe in place). This arrangement means that temporary ties need to be applied when using the mobile sling lift to lift pipes longer than one meter. Therefore, the pipe is not always completely secured and may sway. In particular, when lifting pipes at heights, the pipe can pull on the basket due to wind resistance on the basket and the suspended pipe.

[0008] A safer system and suitable material handling equipment are still needed to assist workers in installing materials and securely attaching any supporting materials without adding unnecessary additional risks. Summary of the Invention

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an apparatus is provided for installing building materials (e.g., pipes) in a substantially vertical direction, comprising: an elongated mounting column configured to be attached to a mobile lifting platform; and a head support configured to support the building materials; wherein the head support is attached to the elongated mounting column and further comprises a rotating mechanism configured to rotate the head support between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the building materials are held in a substantially horizontal position for loading, and in the second position the building materials are held in a substantially vertical position for installation; and the apparatus further comprises a first locking pin configured to lock the head support in the first position or the second position.

[0010] The embodiments described in this application are by way of example only and are illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. The detailed embodiments illustrate the best practices known to the inventors and provide support for the utility model described in the claims. However, the embodiments are merely exemplary and should not be used to interpret or limit the scope of the claims. The purpose of the embodiments is to provide guidance to those skilled in the art. Components and processes distinguished by ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" do not necessarily define any order or priority. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 The image shows a worker moving pipes on a mobile lifting platform.

[0012] Figure 2 A device for installing building materials is shown;

[0013] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 Side view of the device shown;

[0014] Figure 4 Shown separately Figure 2 and Figure 3 The rotating mechanism of the device shown;

[0015] Figure 5 A fixing mechanism for securing the rotating mechanism to an elongated mounting post is shown;

[0016] Figure 6 The device for installing building materials is shown mounted on the basket of a mobile lifting platform, in its storage position.

[0017] Figure 7 The device for installing building materials is shown in the first loading position;

[0018] Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the device, including pipes, in the loading position is shown;

[0019] Figure 9 An apparatus for installing lifting pipes for building materials is shown; and

[0020] Figure 10 A schematic diagram showing the device, including the pipes, in a second installation position is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0021] Figure 1

[0022] Figure 1 This illustrates a typical scenario where workers use a mobile lifting work platform (MEWP) to install building materials.

[0023] In this embodiment, the mobile lifting work platform 101 is shown in the form of a cherry picker. The cherry picker 101 includes a machine 102 and a boom 103, which is attached to a basket 104 configured to support the operator 105 during installation operations.

[0024] In this embodiment, worker 105 is responsible for installing pipe 106, which may form part of a siphon drainage system. As shown, pipe 107 is ready to be installed as part of the drainage system and is attached to basket 104 via device 108.

[0025] In a conventional system, pipe 107 may be attached by ropes, but this method is not secure and may pose a safety hazard to worker 105 and other workers in the vicinity. If pipe 107 falls off the basket 104, it may cause injury.

[0026] As described above, in this embodiment, the mobile lifting platform is shown as a cherry picking machine. However, it should be understood that any other alternative mobile lifting platform may also be used, such as a scissor lift (including static and dynamic scissor lifts).

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, worker 105 is shown as transporting building materials in the form of pipe 108. It should also be understood that the building materials used with device 108 may be any suitable building material for a mobile lifting work platform, including drainage pipework, siphonic pipework, ducting, cable trays, and sprinkler bends, or any other building materials installed in a substantially similar manner.

[0028] Figure 2

[0029] According to this application, Figure 2 An example apparatus for installing building materials is shown in perspective view. It should be understood that the apparatus described below is applicable to… Figure 1 In the scenario described above, the pipe 107 can be installed in a manner substantially similar to that described above using a mobile lifting work platform 101.

[0030] The device 201 includes an elongate mounting post 202 and a head support 203. The head support 203 is attached to the elongate mounting post 202 via an attachment mechanism 204.

[0031] An attachment bracket 205 is provided on the elongated mounting column 202 so that the elongated mounting column 202 can be attached to the mobile lifting work platform as described above.

[0032] In this embodiment, the head support 203 includes a rotation mechanism 206 configured to rotate the head support 203. In one embodiment, the rotation mechanism 206 is rotatable in up to six degrees of freedom, that is, the rotation mechanism can be configured to enable the head support 203 to move back and forth, swing left and right, rise and fall, roll, pitch or yaw.

[0033] In one specific embodiment, the head support 203 is moved by a rotating mechanism 206 in a rolling rotation (left-right rotation) and a pitch rotation (forward-backward tilt). Figures 6 to 10 As further shown, this allows the head support 203 to be moved from the loading position to the mounting position, and further to the storage position when the device 201 is no longer in use.

[0034] In this embodiment, the head support 203 is formed of a substantially metallic material. In one embodiment, the metallic material includes carbon steel, and in other embodiments, the head support 203 includes aluminum. It should be understood that any other suitable metallic material may be used (e.g., titanium).

[0035] In this embodiment, the head support 203 includes a pair of jaws 207. In this embodiment, each jaw includes a serrated edge 208. This provides additional friction, allowing any pipes or building materials to be held more securely within the jaws of the head support during use.

[0036] In this embodiment, the elongated mounting post 202 comprises a metallic material substantially similar to that of the head support 203. Therefore, the elongated mounting post 202 comprises low-carbon steel or aluminum, but may comprise any other suitable material as needed. In other embodiments, the head support 203 and the elongated mounting post 202 comprise different metallic materials. In yet another embodiment, it should be understood that the device 201 as a whole comprises a substantially similar metallic material, which can be any suitable material, such as aluminum or low-carbon steel.

[0037] However, it is important to note that the materials chosen should be as lightweight as possible, as materials can increase the load weight inside the mobile lifting platform basket.

[0038] The elongated mounting column 202 includes multiple holes 209 configured to receive the rotating mechanism 206. The multiple holes 209 allow the rotating mechanism 206 to be installed at different heights depending on operational requirements, such as the length of the building material or the size of the mobile lifting platform basket.

[0039] In this embodiment, the elongated mounting column 202 has a generally square cross-section. This allows the elongated mounting column to align and securely engage with a corresponding plane on the mobile lifting platform basket. However, it should be understood that other cross-sections can also be used for the elongated mounting column 202. Therefore, in other embodiments, the cross-section of the elongated mounting column 202 may be generally rectangular or generally circular.

[0040] The device 201 also includes a base support plate 210 located at one end of the elongated mounting column 202. The base support plate can provide support for the device when it is installed on an aerial work platform.

[0041] Figure 3

[0042] Figure 3 Another side view of the device 201 is shown.

[0043] In this embodiment, the head support 203 includes a generally U-shaped receiving portion 301 configured to receive building materials for installation. In this embodiment, the head support 203 is formed by a laser cutting process, which allows the shape of the receiving portion of the head support 203 to be precisely cut.

[0044] The shape shown is consistent with the use of a siphon pipe; however, it should be understood that in other embodiments using building materials, the receiving portion of the head support 203 may be any other further suitable shape to ensure adequate support for the building material.

[0045] The generally U-shaped receiving portion 301 also includes a pair of grippers 207, which include serrated edges 208. This further increases the support for the building materials.

[0046] In this embodiment, the attachment bracket 205 includes a support portion 302 and an annular portion 303. The support portion 302 is mounted on an elongated mounting column 202, while in use, the annular portion 303 is configured to attach to a tube forming part of the mobile lifting platform basket.

[0047] In this example embodiment, the annular portion 303 extends away from the elongated mounting column in a direction substantially opposite to that of the head bracket 203. However, it should be understood that each attachment bracket 205 can be installed in a different direction depending on the requirements of the lifting platform. For example, the annular portion 303 can be configured perpendicular to... Figure 3 Extending in the indicated direction to assist in attachment to the lifting platform when necessary. Alternatively, the annular portion may extend away from the elongated mounting column in a direction substantially similar to that of the head support 203.

[0048] In this embodiment, the attachment bracket 205 is configured to attach to various types of lifting work platforms. In particular, the attachment bracket can be used with lifting work platforms having square or round cross-section tubing.

[0049] In this example embodiment, device 201 includes two attachment brackets 205; however, it should be understood that in other embodiments, a single attachment bracket may be used, or multiple attachment brackets may be used depending on the specific platform and its size.

[0050] In this embodiment, the device 201 further includes a fixing mechanism 304. The fixing mechanism 304 is configured to secure the rotating mechanism 206 to the elongated mounting post 202. The fixing mechanism 304 includes a second locking pin 305, which is configured to engage with any one of a plurality of holes 209 on the elongated mounting post 202. This allows for secure adjustment of the height of the rotating mechanism and the head support, holding them at an optimal height or position. In this embodiment, the second locking pin 305 includes a safety chain 306, which ensures that the second locking pin 305 does not shift. This can be particularly advantageous if adjustments are made during work at height.

[0051] Figure 4

[0052] Figure 4 The rotating mechanism 206 of the device 201 is shown. The rotating mechanism 206 includes a rotating part 401, a connecting part 402, and a locking mechanism 403.

[0053] In this embodiment, the rotating portion 401 is configured to rotate with up to six degrees of freedom. At a first end 404, the rotating portion 401 is attached to the head support 203. This allows the head support 203 to rotate via the rotating mechanism 206.

[0054] At the other end of the rotating portion 401 is a locking mechanism 403. The locking mechanism 403 includes a first locking pin 405 configured to lock the head support 203 in the desired position and prevent the rotating portion 401 from moving during use. Therefore, the locking mechanism can fix the head support to a first position, in which the building material is held in a substantially horizontal position, and in a substantially vertical position for installation. This also ensures that no building material will move arbitrarily when the mobile lifting platform is raised, and further ensures that once the building material is in the desired position, the operator can safely remove it.

[0055] The locking mechanism 403 is supported by a connecting portion 402, which is properly attached to the elongated mounting post 202.

[0056] In this embodiment, the rotating mechanism is operated mechanically and manually via the first locking pin 405. Therefore, when it is necessary to rotate the head support 203, the first locking pin 405 can be removed from any one of the plurality of holes 406 in the locking mechanism 403 and returned to one of the plurality of holes 406 to ensure that the head support 203 is fixed in the proper position.

[0057] Other mechanical locking methods, such as lever mechanisms, have been used before; however, the inventors have confirmed that these are not suitable for use in lifting work platforms because they are prone to slipping at heights, which could lead to danger.

[0058] However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the rotating mechanism includes a motor configured to drive and operate the rotating mechanism so that an operator can activate the rotating mechanism via a control device. This control device may be configured to operate in accordance with the mobile lifting work platform, thereby reducing the need for operators to work outside the suspended platform.

[0059] Figure 5

[0060] Figure 5 A further view of the fixing mechanism 304 for securing the rotating mechanism 206 to the elongated mounting post 202 is shown.

[0061] In this embodiment, the fixing mechanism 304 includes a fixing bracket 501 attached to the connection portion 402 of the locking mechanism 403. The fixing bracket 501 is configured to slide around and along the elongated mounting post 202. The fixing bracket 501 also includes a plurality of holes 502 configured to receive a second locking pin 305. A plurality of holes 209 on the elongated mounting post 202 are also configured to receive the second locking pin 305.

[0062] Figure 5 The fixing mechanism 304 in the locked position is shown, wherein the head bracket is secured to a given height on the elongated mounting post 202 by the fixing mechanism 304. When the height of the head bracket 203 needs to be adjusted, an operator can remove the second locking pin 305, thereby allowing the fixed bracket 501 to move along the elongated mounting post 202 in the direction of arrow 503. Once the desired height is reached, the second locking pin 305 can be inserted into one of the holes 502 and the plurality of holes 209 to secure its position.

[0063] When the second locking pin 305 is removed, the safety chain 306 ensures that the second locking pin 305 remains nearby, allowing the operator to concentrate on positioning the fixed bracket 501 at the most suitable height and position. This further enables the operator to focus on adjustments without worrying about holding the second locking pin.

[0064] Figure 6

[0065] Figure 6 The device 201 is shown installed on the basket 601 of the mobile lifting work platform 101.

[0066] In this embodiment, the device 201 is in a storage location suitable for use on mobile lifting work platforms for other construction schemes that do not require the installation of building materials in a substantially vertical direction.

[0067] Therefore, in this embodiment, the rotating mechanism 206 holds the head support 203 in a position aligned with the elongated mounting post 202. In this embodiment, the elongated mounting post 202 is fixed to the basket 601 by the attachment bracket 205.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, it should be understood that the device 201 is fixed within the working area inside the suspended platform 601. In other embodiments, to meet the need for increased working space inside the suspended platform 601, for example when it is necessary to bring the head support 203 closer to the installation area, the device 201 may be installed outside the suspended platform 601.

[0069] In this embodiment, the head support 203 and the device 201 are equipped with a strap 602 for securing any building material within the head support 203. In this embodiment, the strap 602 includes a ratchet strap, which can effectively secure the mobile lifting platform around the building material when it is raised or lowered.

[0070] It should be understood that other fixing mechanisms may also be used to secure the building materials within the head support 203, which may further include metal supports or brackets configured to lock in place around the head support 203.

[0071] Figure 7

[0072] Figure 7 The device 201 is shown attached to the basket 601 as part of a mobile lifting work platform 701, in a first loading position. In this position, building materials are placed within the head support 203 and supported in a substantially horizontal position for loading. Thus, in this orientation, workers can load building materials on the ground and then raise the basket 601 to install the building materials in a substantially vertical orientation.

[0073] Therefore, the rotating mechanism 206 is configured to move the head support 203 from Figure 7 Rotate to the position shown Figure 9 The location shown, followed by Figure 10 The location shown.

[0074] Figure 8

[0075] Figure 8 The device 201 is shown to be in Figure 7 The diagram shows the first loading position. In this embodiment, the pipe 801 is secured to the head support 203 by a strap 602. Therefore, in this embodiment, the pipe 801 is in a substantially horizontal position relative to the ground.

[0076] Typically, the operator positions the pipe 801 in an offset position within the head support 203. For example, for a six-meter (6m) long pipe, the pipe can extend approximately one meter (1m) from the head support 203 in one direction and approximately five meters (5m) in the opposite direction. This ensures that when the mobile lifting platform is raised, the pipe 801 can be rotated to a substantially vertical position, suitable for installation, while minimizing the physical exertion of the operator when manipulating the pipe 801.

[0077] Figure 9

[0078] Once secured by strap 602, pipe 801 can be raised and rotated by the mobile lifting platform 701 in a conventional manner. In this way, pipe 801 rotates together with head support 203 due to the action of rotating mechanism 206. It should be understood that locking mechanism 403 is configured to allow movement at this point.

[0079] In this way, pipe 801 or other building materials rotate as the mobile lifting platform 701 is raised, and from... Figure 8 The basic horizontal position shown is moved to Figure 10 The basic vertical position is shown in the figure.

[0080] Figure 10

[0081] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of pipe 801 is shown, in which device 201 is in a second installed position, in which pipe 801 remains substantially vertical. In this way, head support 203 is rotated by rotating mechanism 206 to bring pipe 801 to a corresponding horizontal-vertical position.

[0082] Assuming that pipe 801 is in the correct installation position, such as aligned with the attachment pipe required by the drainage system, the operator can activate the first locking pin 405 of the locking mechanism 403 to ensure that the head bracket 203 does not rotate pipe 801 further.

[0083] At this point, pipe 801 can be disassembled via release strap 602 after successful installation. The mobile lifting platform can then be moved in a conventional manner, thereby separating the head support 203 from pipe 801.

[0084] This process and attachment provide a safer and more efficient way of handling materials in the construction environment, ensuring that workers do not have to use makeshift arrangements, especially when handling large building materials, which could result in serious injuries if they fall off the mobile lifting platform.

Claims

1. A device for installing building materials, such as pipes, in a substantially vertical direction, wherein, The device includes: Elongated mounting columns are configured to attach to a mobile lifting work platform; and The head support structure is configured to support the building materials; among which... The head support is attached to an elongated mounting post, and the head support includes a rotating mechanism configured to rotate the head support between a first position and a second position, in which the building material is held in a substantially horizontal position for loading, and in the second position, in which the building material is held in a substantially vertical position for installation; and The device also includes a first locking pin configured to lock the head support in a first position or a second position.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The elongated mounting post includes multiple holes configured to receive a rotation mechanism to adjust the height of the head support.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The device also includes a fixing mechanism configured to secure the rotating mechanism to an elongated mounting column.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The fixing mechanism includes a second locking pin configured to engage with each of the plurality of holes.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The second locking pin includes a safety chain.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The building material is any one of the following: Drainage pipes, siphon pipes, conduits, cable trays, and sprinkler elbows.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The rotating mechanism has six degrees of freedom.

8. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The device also includes straps for securing building materials to the head support.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The rotating mechanism is configured to move the head support to a storage position in which the head support is aligned with the elongated mounting post.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The head support includes a pair of grippers configured to hold building materials.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, Each jaw in a pair of grippers includes a serrated edge.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The device also includes at least one attachment bracket configured to connect the device to a mobile lifting platform.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The device includes a support plate located at one end of an elongated mounting column.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The device is made of a metallic material, which includes any one of the following: Low-carbon steel, aluminum, or titanium.

15. A mobile lifting work platform, wherein, The device comprising any one of claims 1 to 14.

Images