Urinal for building scaffolds

Abstract

The present invention relates to a urinal for building scaffolds. The urinal comprises a swing arm adapted for being mounted to a part of a building scaffold and / or integrated into a building scaffold and connected to the urinal basin and / or urinal storage tank via a flexible tension-bearing element.

Description

Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to urinals.Background of the invention

[0002] The issue of workers having to continuously ascend and descend building scaffold is a significant concern in construction and other related industries. This physically demanding task can place a great deal of strain on the body, particularly the joints, over an extended period of time. Workers who spend their days climbing a building scaffold face a range of musculoskeletal stresses, especially on the knees, hips, and lower back. The repetitive action of climbing up and down ladders or scaffolding, often while carrying tools or materials, adds further stress to these joints.

[0003] One of the most serious long-term health risks associated with this repetitive physical exertion is the development of osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects the knees and hips. Osteoarthritis is caused by the wear and tear on joint cartilage, and frequent climbing exacerbates this by constantly loading and unloading weight onto the joints. The building scaffold, often narrow and unstable, requires workers to engage their leg muscles and joints more intensively than walking on even ground, creating abnormal stress patterns on the body. Over time, the cartilage that cushions the bones can break down, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility, which are hallmarks of osteoarthritis.

[0004] Additionally, workers who are already fatigued from repeated climbing are more likely to experience slips, trips, or falls, which not only pose immediate injury risks but can also accelerate joint wear through sudden impacts or trauma.

[0005] Constantly battling fatigue also reduces overall productivity, as tired workers are less focused and less efficient. The exhaustion from the continuous need to scale the building scaffold impacts not only their physical health but their mental well-being, leading to potential stress and burnout.

[0006] Addressing this issue requires e.g., a focus on reducing unnecessary movement to minimize physical strain.Summary of the invention

[0007] The inventor of the present invention has developed a urinal for integration into, or coupling to, the building scaffold that thereby significantly reduces the need for workers to repeatedly ascend and descend throughout the workday, particularly for routine tasks like using the restroom.

[0008] By integrating a urinal into the building scaffold itself, or at least coupling the urinal thereto, workers can relieve themselves without having to leave their work platform, thereby greatly minimizing the number of trips up and down the structure. This design would not only save time, increasing productivity, but would also significantly reduce the physical toll on workers. Instead of multiple trips, they can remain on the scaffold, focus on their tasks, and limit the physical strain associated with constant movement between different heights.

[0009] The reduction in these unnecessary ascents and descents offers other indirect benefits as well. With fewer workers constantly moving up and down the scaffold, there is less congestion on ladders, reducing the risk of accidents. Safety is further improved by minimizing the potential distractions or rushed descents that occur when workers are pressed for time. Additionally, from an ergonomic perspective, by lowering the overall physical demands on workers, job satisfaction and morale are likely to increase, as workers will feel less physically exhausted and more able to focus on their work without the constant interruption of having to leave the building scaffold.

[0010] A first aspect related to a urinal adapted for being mounted to and / or integrated into a part of a building scaffold, the urinal comprising: a storage tank; a basin adapted for collecting and funneling urine towards the storage tank; and a swing arm adapted for being mounted to a part of a building scaffold and / or integrated into a building scaffold and connected to the basin and / or storage tank via a flexible tension-bearing element, such as a wire.

[0011] A second aspect relates to a building scaffold comprising a urinal according to the first aspect.Brief description of the figures

[0012] The following figures are to be seen as schematic drawings. Figure 1 shows a front (from a user perspective) view of a urinal in accordance with various embodiments of the invention, after being securely mounted to a building scaffold. Figure 2 shows a front (from a user perspective) perspective view of a urinal in accordance with various embodiments of the invention, prior to being securely mounted to a building scaffold. Figure 3 shows a side (from a user perspective) perspective view of a urinal in accordance with various embodiments of the invention, after being securely mounted to a building scaffold. Figure 4 shows a rear (from a user perspective) view of a urinal in accordance with various embodiments of the invention, after being securely mounted to a building scaffold. Figure 5 shows a front (from a user perspective) perspective view of a part of a urinal in accordance with various embodiments of the invention, where two urinal curtains are placed in an open configuration. Figure 6 shows a front (from a user perspective) view of a part of a urinal in accordance with various embodiments of the invention, where two urinal curtains are placed in a closed configuration. References

[0013] 110Basin 111Mouth 112Clamp 113Guide rail 114Rod 116Curtain 118Sloped surface section 120Storage tank 130Swing arm 132Wire 134Clamp 136Wire pull mechanism 140Standard 150Ledger 160Platform 170Mounting plate Detailed description of the invention

[0014] A first aspect related to a urinal adapted for being mounted to and / or integrated into a part of a building scaffold, the urinal comprising: a storage tank; a basin adapted for collecting and funneling urine towards the storage tank; and a swing arm adapted for being mounted to a part of a building scaffold and / or integrated into a building scaffold and connected to the basin and / or storage tank via a flexible tension-bearing element, such as a wire.

[0015] A second aspect relates to a building scaffold comprising a urinal according to the first aspect.

[0016] In the present context, the term "in general" when used when mentioning a feature relating to the present invention, it must be understood that the feature may be used with all embodiments of the invention, even if the mentioning is made in the detailed part of the document.

[0017] In general, a building scaffold comprises several essential components that work together to form a temporary framework, providing workers with safe access to elevated areas during construction, maintenance, or repair. The foundation of the scaffold is made up of standards 140, which are vertical tubes that support the entire structure, transferring the load to the ground. These standards 140 are connected horizontally by ledgers 150, which provide lateral stability, while transoms (not shown), positioned perpendicular to the ledgers 150, offer support for the working platforms 160 and help distribute weight evenly.

[0018] At the base of the scaffold, base plates (not shown) may be placed under the standards 140 to distribute the load to the ground, ensuring stability, particularly on uneven surfaces. Adjustable base jacks, or screw jacks, are sometimes used at the base to allow for fine-tuning of the scaffold height, ensuring that it remains level. Braces (not shown), diagonal tubes that connect various parts of the scaffold, add further stability by preventing movement or swaying of the structure.

[0019] The working platforms 160 or planks are typically made of wood, steel, or aluminum and rest on the transoms, providing a sturdy surface for workers. In the present context, the working platform 160 serves as the floor in front of the urinal.

[0020] To prevent objects or workers from falling off the platform, toe boards are placed along the edges, while guard rails are installed at appropriate heights to provide fall protection. The guard rails may, for legal reasons, not at present be used to secure the urinal to the building scaffold. Hence, the ledgers 150 are preferred as anchorage. The number of ledgers used may depend on the specific structure of the building scaffold and urinal.

[0021] Connecting the various parts of the scaffold requires couplers, also known as clamps, which securely join the standards, ledgers, and other tubes together. There are different types of couplers, including right-angle couplers for 90-degree connections, swivel couplers for angled connections, and putlog couplers for attaching transoms to ledgers.

[0022] To ensure safe access to the building scaffold, ladders or stair-like access points (not shown) are incorporated, allowing workers to move between different levels. Additionally, ties (not shown) are used to anchor the scaffold to the adjacent building or structure, preventing it from tipping over or collapsing under load.

[0023] Lastly, putlogs (not shown) are horizontal supports that rest one end on the scaffold and the other on the building itself, providing extra stability and supporting the platform. Together, these components form a strong, secure scaffold that is essential for many types of construction and maintenance work.

[0024] The storage tank in a urinal according to the present invention plays a crucial role in managing waste in situations where traditional plumbing and sewage connections are unavailable. Unlike permanent urinals that rely on a direct connection to a sewer system, the urinal of the present invention is portable, and thus uses a self-contained storage tank to collect and temporarily hold the urine. This tank is preferably positioned beneath or behind the basin and is designed to store waste efficiently until it can be emptied, e.g., by sanitation workers.

[0025] In general, the size of the storage tank varies depending on the specific design of the portable urinal and the expected volume of use. For small, individual portable urinal units, the tank might be relatively compact, capable of holding waste for a short period, e.g., 5-50 liters, or up to 100 liters. In larger setups or modular urinals, the storage tank can be significantly larger, sometimes holding several liters of waste to accommodate the high number of users, such as 50-200 liters.

[0026] The design of the storage tank is focused on preventing leaks and managing odors. The tank is preferably made from durable, non-porous materials, such as heavy-duty plastic or polyethylene, which are resistant to corrosion and chemical breakdown from urine. To control odors, the tank may be treated with chemicals or sealed with airtight lids that minimize the release of unpleasant smells. In some embodiments, the tank may include a specialized liquid or trap system that forms a barrier, preventing the escape of gases while allowing urine to flow into the tank.

[0027] Emptying the storage tank is a key maintenance task in portable urinal systems. The tank is preferably designed to be easily accessed for cleaning and disposal, either by opening a service hatch or using specialized equipment like vacuum pumps that suction out the waste. Once emptied, the tank may be cleaned with disinfectants and refilled with odor-control chemicals to prepare it for further use. In one or more embodiments, the storage tank is releasably fastened to the basin.

[0028] If the storage tank is releasably fastened to the basin, it is designed to be detachable from the urinal basin for easy removal, maintenance, and emptying. This setup allows for efficient waste management, particularly in situations where the tank needs to be frequently emptied or replaced without having to dismantle the entire urinal or remove the entire urinal from the building scaffold.

[0029] The fastening system typically involves clips, latches, or locking mechanisms that securely hold the tank in place while the urinal is in use. These fasteners are engineered to ensure a tight, leak-proof seal between the basin and the tank, preventing any spills or odors from escaping during use. When it is time to empty or clean the tank, the user or maintenance worker can quickly disengage the fastening system, release the tank from the basin, and transport it to the appropriate waste disposal site.

[0030] After emptying and cleaning, the tank can be just as easily reattached to the basin. The releasable design allows the tank to snap or lock back into place, ensuring a firm connection that restores the urinal to its full functionality.

[0031] In some embodiments, the storage tank is optional or can be configured for connection to tubing that is adapted for leading to a sewage drain. Hence, the portable urinal may be designed to offer further flexibility in waste management. This adaptable setup allows the urinal to function in either a self-contained mode, with an attached storage tank, or in a plumbed mode, where the storage tank is bypassed, and waste is directed to an external sewage system.

[0032] When used in self-contained mode, the storage tank is attached directly to the basin, collecting waste until it can be emptied or serviced. This configuration is ideal for locations without direct sewage access, such temporary setups where plumbing infrastructure is unavailable. In this mode, the storage tank serves as the main waste reservoir, and the unit operates independently from external drainage.

[0033] Alternatively, when sewage access is available, the urinal can be equipped with tubing that connects the basin directly to a sewage drain, bypassing the storage tank. This setup allows waste to flow continuously through the tubing and into the sewage system, eliminating the need for frequent tank emptying and making maintenance easier. Tubing may be equipped with coupling mechanisms or connectors that can quickly and securely attach to standard sewage pipes or drains, allowing for a straightforward transition between self-contained and plumbed modes.

[0034] In general, the basin of the urinal serves as the immediate receptacle for collecting urine. It is preferably designed to be compact, durable, and easy to maintain, given the temporary and often high-traffic environments where the building scaffold is used. The material used for the basin is usually lightweight but strong, such as plastic or polyethylene, to facilitate transport and withstand frequent use.

[0035] The shape of the basin is carefully engineered to direct urine efficiently towards the drainage or storage system, minimizing splash-back and ensuring cleanliness. Preferably, the basin features sloped surfaces or contoured walls that guide the urine to a central point, where it flows into the connected storage tank. This design helps maintain hygiene and prevents any spillage or pooling of liquids in the basin itself.

[0036] In some embodiments, the basin is often part of a self-contained unit that includes the drainage system and storage tank. The basin is positioned above the storage tank, allowing gravity to direct the urine downwards into the tank. In some embodiments, the basin may also incorporate specialized coatings or treatments that help break down urine and reduce odors. This ensures that the basin remains clean and reduces the frequency of required maintenance.

[0037] Because the urinal of the present invention is designed for temporary use, the basin is preferably configured for being detachable from the swing arm, allowing it to be cleaned or replaced as needed. This flexibility is important in environments where quick setup, maintenance, and removal are priorities.

[0038] In some embodiments, the basin of the urinal is designed for flexible attachment to various structures, such as scaffolding, e.g., configured to be releasably fastened to the building scaffold using adjustable clamps or brackets. These fasteners allow the basin to be securely mounted while also enabling easy removal and repositioning, depending on the specific needs of the site.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, the basin further comprises one or more clamps or brackets adapted for being mounted to a part of a building scaffold, preferably to a rail and / or ledger of the building scaffold. Preferably, the one or more clamps or brackets are vertically and / or horizontally displaceable, thereby allowing the basin to be mounted to different types of building scaffold.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the basin further comprises a pair of clamps or brackets adapted for being mounted to a part of a building scaffold, preferably to a rail and / or ledger of the building scaffold. Preferably, the pair of clamps or brackets are vertically and / or horizontally displaceable relative to one another, thereby allowing the basin to be mounted to different types of building scaffold.

[0041] The clamps or brackets used to attach the basin would preferably be designed to be adjustable in both the horizontal and vertical directions. This adjustability ensures that the basin can be aligned properly, regardless of the height or position of the scaffold. For example, if the scaffold is set at different levels, the basin can be raised or lowered to an appropriate height for the workers' convenience. Similarly, the horizontal adjustability allows the basin to be positioned at the right distance or angle from the scaffold, ensuring that it does not obstruct other scaffold functions while still providing easy access.

[0042] These fastening systems, such as clamps or sliding brackets, are typically made from durable, rust-resistant materials, like stainless steel or heavy-duty plastic to ensure they can withstand the outdoor and often rough conditions found on construction sites. The releasable nature of the clamps allows the basin to be quickly detached for maintenance, relocation, or storage, without requiring complex tools or time-consuming disassembly.

[0043] A urinary curtain may be integrated into the urinal. A urinary curtain, especially one that hangs from a pivoting rod or arm, provides an innovative solution for ensuring privacy in the temporary outdoor setting when working on a building scaffold. The curtain, typically made from durable, waterproof materials, such as vinyl or plastic, is mounted on a rod or arm that preferably can pivot or rotate. This feature allows the curtain to be folded away when not in use and easily swung into place when a user needs privacy.

[0044] The pivoting mechanism is central to the curtain's functionality. When the urinal is not being used, the rod and curtain are folded neatly against the basin, ensuring that the space remains open and unobstructed. This compact design is particularly advantageous in the crowded and / or constrained area on the building scaffold. Furthermore, bystanders or other residents are prevented from seeing a user. When someone approaches to use the urinal, they can simply pull the rod outward, swinging the curtain into position around the urinal to create a temporary, enclosed space that offers privacy. After use, the curtain can be quickly and effortlessly folded back into its original position.

[0045] The adjustable, pivoting rod system provides a flexible and convenient way to manage privacy, as it can be easily adapted to different environments or needs. The fact that the curtain is movable rather than fixed allows it to cater to varying spatial layouts and user preferences. Moreover, the curtain's material is chosen for its resistance to water, weather, and frequent cleaning, making it highly durable in outdoor and high-traffic environments.

[0046] In addition to offering privacy, this curtain system also helps maintain a sense of cleanliness and order in environments where traditional restroom facilities are unavailable. By isolating the user, the curtain can also help contain any splashes or odors, contributing to overall hygiene in the area.

[0047] In one or more embodiments, the basin further comprises a urinal curtain held by one or more pivoting rods or arms. Preferably, the urinal curtain is configured to cover the basin in a closed configuration and serve as a cover for a user in an open configuration.

[0048] In one embodiment, two curtains are used. This design is focused on creating a comprehensive privacy enclosure while maintaining flexibility and space efficiency. This setup would typically involve two pivoting rods or arms, each mounted on opposite sides of the urinal or basin.

[0049] The curtains hang from these rods and, when in use, they may in some embodiments be configured to be drawn towards the center to meet and enclose the user on both sides. When not in use, both curtains remain folded back against their respective walls, ensuring the area around the urinal remains open and unobstructed for foot traffic or general accessibility. The folding mechanism allows the curtains to sit flush against the sides, taking up minimal space.

[0050] When a user approaches the urinal, they would manually pull each curtain towards the center, effectively creating a privacy shield on both sides of the urinal. The curtains meet or slightly overlap in the front, providing a full enclosure around the user, ensuring they are shielded from view on all sides. This dualcurtain system ensures greater privacy compared to a single curtain, especially in situations where multiple urinals are placed side by side or in open environments.

[0051] Once the user is done, the curtains can be easily pushed back towards the sides, restoring the open, unobstructed space for the next person. This type of configuration is ideal for high-traffic, temporary restroom environments where privacy is important but permanent partitions or enclosed stalls are impractical. The folding action of the curtains toward each other allows for both privacy and efficient use of space, as the curtains do not need to be permanently extended or fixed in place.

[0052] In another embodiment, the curtains are not folded back against the wall but instead configured to remain unfolded. In this scenario, the pivoting rods are folded towards the basin when the urinal is not in use, and then folded outward when the urinal is to be used. Hence, the design creates a unique, space-saving, and efficient privacy solution for a urinal according to the present invention.

[0053] In this setup, two rods or arms are mounted on either side of the urinal or basin. Each rod holds a privacy curtain, and when the urinal is not in use, both rods are folded inward toward the basin, essentially covering or partially enclosing the urinal. This configuration keeps the area compact, preventing the curtains from taking up unnecessary space when the urinal is not in active use, while also possibly protecting the basin from dust or other environmental elements in outdoor settings.

[0054] When a user approaches to use the urinal, they would simply fold the rods outward, pulling the curtains with them. As the rods pivot away from the basin, the curtains spread outward to create a privacy enclosure around the user. This setup would ensure that the curtains form a shield around the urinal area, giving the user a sense of discretion and isolation from those nearby. The action of folding the rods outward is quick and straightforward, making the urinal ready for use without complicated mechanisms or lengthy adjustments.

[0055] After the user finishes, the rods and curtains can be easily folded back inward, returning to their original position over the basin. This inward folding keeps the curtains tucked neatly away, out of the path of foot traffic and other users.

[0056] In general, the swing arm is adapted for being mounted to a part of a building scaffold and / or integrated into a building scaffold. The swing arm is preferably connected to the basin and / or storage tank via a flexible tension-bearing element, such as a wire, cable, rope, chain, strap, belt, or the like. The basin and / or storage tank may be provided with anchor points for the flexible tension-bearing element.

[0057] The swing arm may, e.g., be made from durable, lightweight materials, such as reinforced steel or aluminum, ensuring both strength and ease of mobility. It would be designed to either integrate directly into the scaffold structure or be securely mounted onto it. If integrated, the arm would attach to the vertical (e.g., the standards) or horizontal (e.g., the ledgers) scaffold bars via specially designed clamps or locking mechanisms, which would allow it to pivot freely while ensuring stability under load. This integration would maintain the overall structural integrity of the scaffold while providing the flexibility to reposition the arm as needed.

[0058] If mounted externally, the swing arm could be attached using heavy-duty brackets or a mounting plate that is bolted or clamped to the scaffold. This mounting system would be adjustable to accommodate different scaffold dimensions and configurations. The arm would typically pivot on a horizontal axis, allowing it to swing outwards or inwards, depending on the required positioning. An optional locking mechanism would ensure that once in place, the arm remains stable, preventing unwanted movement.

[0059] In one embodiment, the swing arm is equipped with a guide mechanism that allows the flexible tension-bearing element, such as a wire, rope, or cable, to move freely along the length of the arm. This setup enables the wire to be displaced back and forth relative to the arm, providing both flexibility and precision when positioning the basin and storage tank. The guide could take the form of a track, groove, or pulley mounted on the swing arm, which ensures smooth movement of the wire or cable as it slides along the arm's axis.

[0060] The flexible tension-bearing element, typically a wire or cable, bears the load and transfers tension during lifting or lowering operations. The guide mechanism keeps this element aligned with the swing arm, allowing for controlled movement. The key advantage of this configuration is that the wire or cable can be displaced along the length of the swing arm, offering the ability to adjust the basin and storage tank's horizontal position without needing to move the arm itself. This is particularly useful in scenarios where precise positioning is required after the basin and storage tank has been lifted, providing greater operational flexibility.

[0061] The swing arm can still pivot or rotate to move the load in a horizontal arc, but the guide system adds another layer of control by allowing the wire or cable to shift along the arm's length. This enables fine-tuning of the load's position along a horizontal distance, without the need to reposition the entire arm.

[0062] In one or more embodiments, the swing arm is provided with an integrated guide that allows the flexible tension-bearing element to move along the length of the arm.

[0063] The swing arm can be designed in two primary configurations based on how the flexible tension-bearing element interacts with the system. It can either include a wire pull mechanism or simply use a predefined length of wire for suspending the load.

[0064] In the first configuration, where the swing arm comprises a wire pull mechanism, the flexible tension-bearing element can be actively adjusted. This mechanism typically includes a pulley system, winch, or hoist integrated into the arm, allowing the wire to be extended or retracted as needed. The pull mechanism gives the operator control over the length of the flexible tension-bearing element, enabling them to raise or lower the load with precision. This flexibility is particularly beneficial when handling the urinal at different heights relative to the building scaffold.

[0065] On the other hand, the swing arm may also simply comprise a predefined length of flexible tension-bearing element, where the load (basin and storage tank) is suspended in a fixed position relative to the arm. In this configuration, the flexible tension-bearing element is not adjustable but is set at a specific length to suit the intended application. This type of setup is more straightforward and costeffective, often used when the load remains at a constant height or the movement required is predominantly horizontal, handled by the swing or pivot action of the arm itself. The load remains suspended from a fixed-length wire, and the swing arm provides the primary means of moving the load horizontally along an arc. When in this configuration, the urinal may be lifted into position with a lift that is also generally used when constructing and mounting the building scaffold.

[0066] Both configurations have their advantages depending on the application. A swing arm with a wire pull mechanism offers greater flexibility and control, ideal for more complex tasks that require frequent adjustments to the load's position or height. In contrast, a predefined-length wire setup is simpler, more efficient in static or repetitive tasks, and may be preferred when the height remains constant and only horizontal movement is required.

[0067] In one or more embodiments, the basin comprises a mounting plate which serves as the front of the urinal, with a mouth of the basin extending through a hole in the plate.

[0068] In one or more embodiments, the storage tank is mounted to the mounting plate.

[0069] In one or more embodiments, the flexible tension-bearing element is releasably fastened to the basin and / or storage tank.

[0070] In one or more embodiments, the basin further comprises two pairs of clamps, and wherein each pair of clamps are vertically displaceable along a guide rail.

[0071] In one or more embodiments, the swing arm is configured to be mounted to a building scaffold's vertical standard using one or more clamps. Preferably, each clamp is fitted with a hinge pin component, allowing it to rotate and support the swing arm's movement; and wherein the swing arm comprises one or more hinge knuckles that are configured to align with the hinge pins on the clamps.

[0072] It should be noted that embodiments and features described in the context of one of the aspects of the present invention also apply to the other aspects of the invention.

[0073] Referring to Figures 1-4, a preferred embodiment is shown. The swing arm 130 in this configuration is designed to be mounted securely to a building scaffold's vertical standard 140 using two clamps 134 (a single, or more clamps may be used), which serve dual purposes - both anchoring the swing arm 130 to the structure and acting as hinge pins. Each clamp is fitted with a hinge pin component (not shown), allowing it to rotate and support the swing arm's movement. Correspondingly, the swing arm itself includes hinge knuckles (not shown) that align with the hinge pins on the clamps 134.

[0074] When assembled, each clamp's 134 hinge pin fits into the hinge knuckle parts on the swing arm 130, creating a secure yet flexible joint. This joint setup allows the swing arm 130 to pivot smoothly around the hinge pins, giving it the ability to swing horizontally. By using two or more clamps, the design increases stability and load-bearing capacity, as the forces acting on the arm are distributed across multiple attachment points rather than a single one. This multi-clamp setup also allows for adjustments along the vertical standard, meaning the swing arm can be positioned at different heights on the post as required by the task.

[0075] In Figure 2, the swing arm 130 has already been mounted to a standard 140. The basin 110 and storage tank 120 have been lifted (by a lift, not shown) into a wanted position in front of the scaffold, and a wire 132 from the swing arm 130 has been attached to the basin 110. The basin 110 and storage tank 120 now hang freely from the wire 132 as the lift has been lowered. In Figure 1, the basin 110 and storage tank 120 have been securely mounted to a pair of ledgers 150. The swing arm 130 aids in both the mounting and demounting processes by holding the weight of the urinal and supporting the personnel in approaching the urinal towards the building scaffold (when mounting) and towards the lift (when demounting).

[0076] In the embodiment shown, a mounting plate 170 serves as the front (from a user perspective) of the urinal, with part of the basin 110 extending through a hole in the plate 170. The mounting plate itself becomes an integral, visible component of the urinal's design, providing both structural support and a streamlined appearance. In this setup, the mounting plate 170 is a flat, durable panel that faces the user and acts as a support for both the basin 110 and storage tank 120.

[0077] Hence, the basin 110 is positioned behind the plate 170, with its mouth 111 extending through a precisely cut hole in the plate. This creates a clean, unified look, as only the mouth part 111 of the basin 110, where the user deposits urine, is visible and accessible from the front. The rest of the basin 110, along with any connecting parts leading to the storage tank 120, remains hidden behind the plate, giving the urinal a compact and tidy appearance.

[0078] This design allows the mounting plate 170 to serve a dual function. It acts as the main structural component that securely locks the urinal to the building scaffold, while also acting as a splash guard or protective barrier for the surrounding area. The mouth part 111 of the basin 110 that protrudes through the plate 170 is typically contoured to minimize splash-back.

[0079] The storage tank 120 (see Figures 3 and 4), meanwhile, is mounted behind the plate 170, directly connected to the lower section of the basin 110. This setup allows waste to flow smoothly from the basin 110 into the storage tank 120 without exposed plumbing. The entire unit, consisting of the mounting plate 170, basin 110, and storage tank 120, can be transported and installed as a single, compact unit, and connected to the preferably pre-installed swing arm 130 via e.g., a wire or chain 132. In some embodiments, the basin 110 and mounting plate 170 may be constructed or interpreted as a single unit.

[0080] This configuration is especially useful in portable urinal setups where space efficiency and a sleek appearance are desired, as it minimizes exposed components and reduces maintenance requirements. It also provides a sense of privacy and containment, as the mounting plate 170 visually conceals much of the urinal's functional parts, offering a streamlined and hygienic design that is practical for high-traffic or temporary settings.

[0081] The mounting plate 170 is also shown provided with clamps 112. If the mounting plate is not present in some embodiments, such clams (and optional guide rails) may be directly mounted on the basin. In the disclosed embodiment, the mounting plate 170 is equipped with two pairs of clamps 112 that are vertically displaceable along guide rails 113. This design allows for a highly adaptable and secure attachment to scaffolding structures with different configurations. Each pair of clamps 112 is mounted within a guide rail system on the mounting plate 170, enabling smooth, adjustable movement up and down. This configuration makes it possible to clamp onto scaffold ledgers that may vary in height or spacing, offering flexibility across diverse scaffolding arrangements.

[0082] As an example, imagine a construction site where the urinal needs to be attached to scaffolds with ledgers positioned at varying distances, depending on the specific scaffold model or setup stage. The guide rails allow each clamp pair to be easily repositioned along the mounting plate to align precisely with the spacing of the scaffold ledgers. For instance, if the ledgers are close together, each pair of clamps can be slid towards each other within the guide rails and secured tightly at the correct level. Conversely, if the ledgers are positioned farther apart, the clamps can be moved up or down independently to accommodate the spacing without needing additional mounting hardware.

[0083] The guide rail system provides a structured path for the clamps, ensuring stability during adjustment and precise positioning. Once the clamps are aligned with the ledgers, they can be securely fastened, holding the urinal mounting plate firmly in place. This rail-based adjustment mechanism simplifies installation, allowing quick, tool-free adjustments that save time and effort.

[0084] The urinal is shown with two urinal curtains 116, each held by a pivoting rod 114. Figure 5 shows an embodiment, where the two urinal curtains 116 are placed in an open configuration, and Figure 6 shows the two urinal curtains 116 placed in a closed configuration. In the closed configuration, the urinal curtains 116 cover the mouth 111 of the basin, and serve as a cover for a user in the open configuration.

Claims

1. A urinal adapted for being mounted to and / or integrated into a part of a building scaffold, the urinal comprising: - a storage tank (120); - a basin (110) adapted for collecting and funneling urine towards the storage tank (120); and - a swing arm (130) adapted for being mounted to a part of a building scaffold and / or integrated into a building scaffold and connected to the basin (110) and / or storage tank (120) via a flexible tension-bearing element, such as a wire (132).

2. The urinal according to claim 1, wherein the basin (110) further comprises one or more clamps (112) or brackets adapted for being mounted to a part of a building scaffold, preferably to a rail and / or ledger (150) of the building scaffold.

3. The urinal according to claim 2, wherein said one or more clamps (112) or brackets are vertically and / or horizontally displaceable, thereby allowing the basin (110) to be mounted to different types of building scaffold.

4. The urinal according to claim 1, wherein the basin (110) further comprises a pair of clamps (112) or brackets adapted for being mounted to a part of a building scaffold, preferably to a rail and / or ledger (150) of the building scaffold.

5. The urinal according to claim 4, wherein said pair of clamps (112) or brackets are vertically and / or horizontally displaceable relative to one another, thereby allowing the basin (110) to be mounted to different types of building scaffold.

6. The urinal according to any one of the claims 1-5, wherein the basin (110) further comprises a urinal curtain (116) held by one or more pivoting rods (114) or arms.

7. The urinal according to claim 6, wherein the urinal curtain (116) is configured to cover the basin (110) in a closed configuration and serve as a cover for a user in an open configuration.

8. The urinal according to any one of the claims 1-7, wherein the storage tank (120) is releasably fastened to the basin (110).

9. The urinal according to any one of the claims 1-8, wherein the swing arm (130) is provided with an integrated guide that allows the flexible tension-bearing element to move along the length of the arm.

10. The urinal according to any one of the claims 1-9, wherein the basin (110) comprises a mounting plate (170) which serves as the front of the urinal, with a mouth (111) of the basin (110) extending through a hole in the plate (170).

11. The urinal according to claim 10, wherein the storage tank (120) is mounted to the mounting plate (170).

12. The urinal according to any one of the claims 1-11, wherein the flexible tension-bearing element is releasably fastened to the basin (110) and / or storage tank (120).

13. The urinal according to any one of the claims 1-12, wherein the basin (110) further comprises two pairs of clamps (112), and wherein each pair of clamps (112) are vertically displaceable along a guide rail (113).

14. The urinal according to any one of the claims 1-13, wherein the swing arm (130) is configured to be mounted to a building scaffold's vertical standard (140) using one or more clamps (134); each clamp fitted with a hinge pin component, allowing it to rotate and support the swing arm's movement; and wherein the swing arm (130) comprises one or more hinge knuckles that are configured to align with the hinge pins on the clamps (134).

15. A building scaffold comprising a urinal according to any one of the claims 1-14.

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