Rolling scaffold with pivoting and height-adjustable ladders

Abstract

A rolling scaffold (1), the components of which are mobile between a compact position and at least one extended position, the compact position being a transport or storage position for the scaffold, the extended position being a position of use, the scaffold comprising a work platform (20) supported by two ladders (2, 3), the two ladders comprising a first lower element (10, 11), and a second element (13, 14), the first and second elements comprising two stringers connected by at least one cross member, the second element being mounted to rotate relative to the first lower element between a folded position and an extended position, the stringers of the second element being aligned with the stringers of the first lower element in the extended position. Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Rolling scaffold with pivoting and height-adjustable ladders

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of rolling scaffolds.

[0002] The term "mobile scaffolding" here refers to prefabricated, self-supporting devices that allow work to be carried out at height. "Self-supporting" here refers to the fact that the stability of the device is ensured without the need for any added elements.

[0003] Rolling scaffolds are used for structural or finishing work, for occasional and repetitive work at height, particularly in the fields of plastering, painting, electricity, plumbing, heating or carpentry.

[0004] Rolling scaffolds are used in particular for small-scale work of relatively short duration, on facades or vertical walls, or for work on ceilings not requiring permanent access to the entire work area.

[0005] Two types of rolling scaffolds are commercially available.

[0006] A first type of mobile scaffolding allows work at low heights. This first type of scaffolding is subject to standard NFP93-520, the maximum platform height being 2.5 m, the uniformly distributed live load being 200 kg / m2.

[0007] A second type of mobile scaffolding allows work at greater heights. This second type of scaffolding is subject to standard NF EN 1004-1, with a maximum platform height of 8 m outdoors and 12 m indoors, and a uniformly distributed live load of 150 kg / m² for class 2 scaffolding and 200 kg / m² for class 3 scaffolding. Standard NF EN 1004-2 defines the rules and guidelines for preparing an instruction manual for mobile scaffolding conforming to standard NF EN 1004-1.

[0008] The invention advantageously relates to rolling scaffolds of the second type, but can also be implemented for rolling scaffolds of the first type.

[0009] Some provisions provided for by the standards for mobile scaffolding are presented below.

[0010] Mobile scaffolds are equipped with four feet with swivel wheels or casters and include at least one working platform from which work at height will be carried out by the user. Mobile scaffolds may include intermediate platforms located below the working platform. The minimum width and the maximum length of a floor must be 0.6 m and 1 m respectively according to standard EN 1004-1. Floors must have at least one access opening, called a hatch, with a minimum width of 0.4 m and a minimum length of 0.6 m.

[0011] Mobile scaffolds must be equipped with a guardrail, forming a barrier to protect against the risk of a person or materials falling. The guardrail consists of a handrail, an intermediate rail, and a toe board. The handrail must be fixed so that its upper surface is at least 1 m vertically above the upper surface of the platform it protects. The intermediate rail is fixed between the handrail and the toe board.

[0012] The methods of assembling and disassembling a rolling scaffold must ensure that a person is not obliged to stand on a floor without handrails and intermediate rails.

[0013] Work on a floor is only permitted with the presence of a complete workstation, including a complete guardrail, incorporating handrails, intermediate rails and baseboards.

[0014] Rolling scaffolds can be provided with stabilizing feet, allowing the footprint to be increased, and on which a wheel can be fixed, the wheel being provided with a brake.

[0015] Rolling scaffolds can be equipped with stabilizers, allowing the ground footprint to be increased, the base of these stabilizers generally comprising an elastomer pad.

[0016] In a rolling scaffold, access to the working platform can be achieved by a staircase, a step ladder, an inclined ladder, or a vertical ladder; several types of access may exist in the same rolling scaffold.

[0017] The dismantling, dismantling, and use of mobile scaffolding, particularly that subject to standard NF EN 1004-1, require training. In the building and public works sector, the French National Health Insurance (Assurance Maladie) recommendation R457 provides a skills framework for preventing risks related to the assembly, dismantling, and use of mobile scaffolding.

[0018] Various designs have been proposed in the prior art for the assembly and dismantling of high-rise rolling scaffolds.

[0019] According to a first type of design, the mobile scaffolds are equipped with two ladders, each formed of interlocking elements. Interlocking here means that two separate elements fit into one another for assembly, by a substantially vertical movement of the two elements relative to each other. Reference may be made, for example, to documents US5099953 (Staghorn, 1992), DE20315839 (Loh, 2003), EP1978180 (Owens, 2008), EP2071099 (Tubesca, 2009), EP2175087 (Layer, 2010), FR2946375 (Duarib), DE 102012019902 (Hymer, 2014). This design presents numerous drawbacks. The assembly ends are susceptible to impacts, potentially leading to permanent deformations that can make reassembling the ladder elements difficult or even impossible. The extreme assembly points of the ladder elements can be contaminated by splashes of paint, plaster, cement, or gypsum, for example, and the resulting soiling of the interlocking surfaces can complicate or prevent reassembly. Furthermore, the interlocking elements form the basis of a scaffolding assembly kit, with the risk of losing or forgetting a part, thus preventing proper scaffold assembly.

[0020] According to a second type of design, the rolling scaffolds are provided with two ladders, each formed of telescopic elements. Reference may be made, for example, to documents US2010071994 (Tseng, 2010), GB2479202 (Weston, 2011), CN103321397 (Zhang, 2013), CN103046729 (Yuan, 2013), CN103883115 (Yuan, 2014), CN103883111 (Yuan, 2014), KR20190127275 (Ohseong, 2019), KR20210000042U (Ohseong, 2021). The applicant markets mobile scaffolding of this type under the brand name Teletower®, with a working height of 2.3 m to 4 m. While this design is satisfactory, it has some drawbacks. First, the sliding sections of the ladders can become soiled by splashes of paint, cement, or plaster, for example, requiring careful cleaning before retracting the ladders. Second, the sliding surfaces can be damaged by impacts, such as being struck by a heavy object.

[0021] According to a third type of design, mobile scaffolds are equipped with two ladders, each formed of sliding elements. Reference may be made, for example, to documents FR2312623 (Gubri, 1976), CN201605792U (Suzhou, 2010), CN201670702 (Huiru, 2010), EP2696008 (Hymer, 2014), EP3192940, EP3192941, EP3192942 and FR3046619 (Tubesca, 2017), and GB2544623 (Ability, 2017). Such scaffolds are marketed by Tubesca under the brand names X'Tower and Z'Tower®. This design has numerous drawbacks. In particular, the work platform area is significantly reduced compared to the scaffold's footprint, as the spacing between the sliding ladder sections decreases from the bottom to the top of the side ladders. The footprint here refers to the support polygon defined by the four wheels of the rolling scaffold.Furthermore, the sliding of ladder elements can be made difficult as a result of paint, plaster or cement splashes on these elements.

[0022] Document KR20100129182 (Malsa, 2010) proposes the assembly of ladder elements by means of hooks and locking means.

[0023] Document GB2408285 (Stevens, 2005) proposes a folding structure comprising a basic chassis mounted on four wheels, with two ladders connected by inclined crossbars being mounted foldingly on this chassis.

[0024] Document EP1862610 (Portuleiter, 2007) discloses a scaffold comprising two ladders, each formed of two articulated elements, movable between a deployed position and a folded position in which the upper element is placed laterally outwards and against the lower element.

[0025] The scaffolding described in document EP1862610 has several drawbacks. First, for each of the two ladders, the upper element is laterally mobile through 180° relative to the lower element. Extending the ladders over this 180° range requires a very large free space on either side of the scaffolding. The upper and lower elements each have seven rungs and are each 2 meters high. Second, the kit proposed in this prior art document comprises a set of spare parts, with the resulting risk of parts loss, and the assembly and disassembly operations are tedious. Furthermore, the scaffolding is of a fixed type and is difficult to move. Similar observations can be made regarding the scaffolding described in document ITVR20120149 (Facal, 2014).

[0026] The invention aims to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art, by proposing a rolling scaffold whose components are mobile between a compact position and at least one deployed position, the compact position being a transport or storage position of the scaffold, the deployed position being a position of use of the scaffold, the ladders being height adjustable according to the desired height for the floor of the work station, the means of adjusting the height of the ladders being robust, and in particular not very sensitive to shocks or dirt, allowing the use of the scaffold in the most difficult construction sites.

[0027] Another object of the invention is a scaffold of the above type, the folding and unfolding of the scaffold being able to be carried out quickly by a single person, without specific tools.

[0028] Another object of the invention is a scaffold of the above type, which is lightweight, facilitating the movement and transport of the scaffold.

[0029] Another object of the invention is a scaffold meeting at least one of the above objects, the scaffold occupying a small volume, in its compact position, allowing in particular passage through a door frame, or transport in a van, the scaffold being manageable and easy to maneuver.

[0030] Another object of the invention is a scaffold meeting at least one of the above objects, the components of the scaffold being captive.

[0031] Another object of the invention is a scaffold meeting at least one of the above objects, the height of the work platform floor being adjustable, the scaffold offering a large number of possible working heights.

[0032] For these purposes, the invention relates, according to a first aspect, to a scaffold, in particular a rolling scaffold, the components of which are mobile between a compact position and at least one deployed position, the compact position being a transport or storage position of the scaffold, the deployed position being a position of use, the scaffold comprising a work station supported on two ladders, the two ladders comprising a first lower element, and a second element, the first element and the second element comprising two stringers connected by at least one cross member, the second element being mounted to rotate movably relative to the first lower element, between a folded position and a deployed position, the stringers of the second element being placed in alignment with the stringers of the first lower element, in the deployed position.

[0033] By placed or arranged in alignment, we mean here that the stringers of each second ladder element extend in the continuation, following the same substantially vertical line as the stringers of the first ladder element.

[0034] Advantageously, in the deployed position, the stringers of the second element and the stringers of the first element together define a substantially smooth cylindrical surface.

[0035] By cylindrical surface, we mean here a surface generated by a straight line, called the generatrix, which moves in a given direction while resting on a closed curved line called the directrix.

[0036] In some implementations, the director is a circle or an ellipse, the stringers of the ladder elements being in the form of tubes or profiles of round or elliptical section.

[0037] In other implementations, the director is a polygon, for example a square or a rectangle, the stringers of the ladder elements being in the form of tubes or profiles with a cross-section in the shape of a quadrilateral.

[0038] By "substantially smooth cylindrical surface," we mean here that the ladder elements, in their extended position, define an even external surface that does not exhibit significant roughness or asperity, particularly to the touch. This reduces the risk of injury to the user's hands when gripping the slats while climbing the ladder. Furthermore, elements can be mounted to slide vertically along the ladders, along the entire height of the ladder elements. This makes it possible, in particular, to adjust the platform height of a workstation, as the platform is mounted to slide along the ladder slats.

[0039] Advantageously, the two ladders include a third element, forming with the second element a rotating mobile assembly with the first lower element, between a folded position and a deployed position, the third element being rotationally mobile relative to the second element, between a folded position and a deployed position, the stringers of the third element being placed in alignment with the stringers of the second element, in the deployed position.

[0040] Advantageously, in the unfolded position, the stringers of the third element and the stringers of the second element together define a substantially smooth cylindrical surface.

[0041] Advantageously, the scaffolding includes means for locking the third ladder elements in their unfolded position, and means for locking the second ladder elements in their deployed position.

[0042] Advantageously, the locking means are automatic locking means.

[0043] By automatic means, we mean here means which do not require any additional action from the user for their actuation in the locked position, the locking of the ladder elements being obtained when they are pivoted to the unfolded or deployed position.

[0044] In some implementations, the locking means include a male element forming a latch, such as a plate or bar that snaps into a female element, by means of its weight or by means of a spring, for example a torsion spring.

[0045] By interlocking we mean here the act of making the salient of one part penetrate the interlock of another part, so as to make them joined in their movement.

[0046] Advantageously, unlocking the ladder elements requires a deliberate, intentional action by the user. Accidental or involuntary unlocking of the ladder elements is thus excluded. When the locking means include a latch that engages by means of a spring, unlocking requires manual action against the stiffness of the spring.

[0047] In some embodiments, the ladders are formed by unfolding more than three elements, each element being mounted to rotate between a folded position and an unfolded position.

[0048] The unfolding is advantageously carried out progressively, from the bottom to the top of each ladder.

[0049] Advantageously, an assembly comprising n elements is mounted pivotally in rotation with respect to a given lower ladder element, between a folded position and an unfolded position, in which one of the n elements is aligned with the lower ladder element and forms a new lower ladder element. In this unfolded position, an assembly comprising n-1 elements is mounted pivoting in rotation relative to this new lower element of scale, and so on.

[0050] Advantageously, the scaffolding comprises two side guardrails mounted movable in rotation between a storage position and a deployment position, the rotation stroke of each side guardrail between the storage position and the deployment position extending over approximately 180° relative to the first ladder element.

[0051] Advantageously, the scaffolding comprises two fixed and mobile assemblies between a close position and a distant position, each assembly comprising a first lower ladder element, a lateral guardrail, and a second ladder element, the lateral guardrail and the second ladder element being arranged on either side of the first lower ladder element.

[0052] In some implementations, the two assemblies are connected by a scissor mechanism.

[0053] Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description of embodiments given below with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0054] [Fig-1] is a perspective view of a rolling scaffold in a deployed position of use, the workstation being in the extreme high position;

[0055] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of the rolling scaffold of [Fig.1], the scaffold being in a compact folded position for transport or storage;

[0056] [Fig.3] is a view of a first unfolding stage of the scaffolding, from its compact position shown in [Fig.2];

[0057] [Fig.4] is a view of a second stage of unfolding the scaffolding, with the side guardrail elements in the deployed position;

[0058] [Fig.5] is a view of a third stage of unfolding the scaffolding, the handrail and the intermediate rail of the guardrail being unfolded between the lateral guardrail elements;

[0059] [Fig.6] is a view of a fourth stage of unfolding the scaffolding, the work platform being put into the position of use, at a first working height;

[0060] [Fig.7] is a view of a fifth unfolding stage of the scaffolding, after pivoting of two lateral ladder elements;

[0061] [Fig.8] is a view of a sixth stage of unfolding the scaffolding, showing the raising of the floor on a first side;

[0062] [Fig.9] is a view of a seventh stage of unfolding the scaffolding, showing the raising of the floor on the side opposite to that of [Fig.8];

[0063] [Fig. 10] is a view of an eighth unfolding stage of the scaffolding, showing a second raising movement of the floor on the first side;

[0064] [Fig. 11] is a view of a ninth stage of unfolding the scaffolding, after raising the floor to a second working height;

[0065] [Fig. 12] is a view of a tenth stage of unfolding the scaffolding, after setting up two diagonals;

[0066] [Fig. 13] is a view of an eleventh unfolding stage of the scaffolding, after pivoting of second ladder elements;

[0067] [Fig. 14] is a view of a twelfth unfolding stage of the scaffolding, showing a raising of the workstation floor on one lateral side;

[0068] [Fig. 15] is a view of a thirteenth unfolding stage of the scaffolding, showing the raising of the work platform floor on the lateral side opposite that of [Fig.14];

[0069] [Fig. 16] is a view of a fourteenth unfolding stage of the scaffolding, showing the raising of the workstation floor on a side opposite to that of [Fig. 15];

[0070] [Fig. 17] is a view of a fifteenth unfolding stage of the scaffolding, the work station being in its extreme high position, the floor being at a third working height;

[0071] [Fig.18] is a view of a sixteenth unfolding stage of the scaffolding, after the installation of two upper diagonals and stabilizers;

[0072] [Fig. 19] is a perspective view of a first lower ladder element, mounted on two wheels, an assembly comprising a second element and a third ladder element being pivotally and articulated to the first lower ladder element, the assembly being shown in the folded position;

[0073] [Fig.20] is a perspective view of the articulation area of ​​the first lower element and the second ladder element;

[0074] [Fig.21] is a perspective view of the means of articulation and locking, in one embodiment.

[0075] We refer first to [Fig.1], illustrating in perspective a rolling scaffold 1, shown in a position of use.

[0076] The scaffolding 1 comprises two lateral ladders 2, 3, extending substantially vertically and parallel to each other.

[0077] By ladder, we mean here elements comprising two substantially parallel uprights or stringers, and crossbars or rungs connecting the uprights.

[0078] In the embodiment shown, the ladders 2, 3 are provided with equidistant rungs, which can serve as foot support for a user climbing or scaling a ladder 2, 3.

[0079] The bars are advantageously provided with reliefs or ribs, or coated with an anti-slip material, for example elastomer.

[0080] In the position of use, the two ladders 2, 3 are separated from each other by a predefined maximum distance, by an articulation mechanism 4, for example scissor or bellows.

[0081] In the embodiment shown, each scale 2, 3 comprises a first lower element 10, 11, formed by assembling crossbeams between two longerons.

[0082] A wheel 12 is mounted in the extreme lower part of each of the two longitudinal members, on each first element 10, 11.

[0083] Advantageously, a wheel 12 equipped with a braking means is mounted freely on each longitudinal member of the first two elements 10, 11, i.e. pivotally mounted at 360° with respect to the vertical direction of the longitudinal member's slenderness.

[0084] In various implementations, the wheels 12 are made of polyamide or polyurethane, with a diameter between 125 mm and 200 mm, for example.

[0085] The braking control is advantageously of the foot control type, and is identical on all four wheels 12.

[0086] The brakes are locked before any user climbs onto the scaffolding 1.

[0087] Each ladder 2, 3 comprises at least one second element 13, 14, pivotally mounted relative to the lower element 10, 11, between a folded position and a deployed position.

[0088] A folded position is shown in [Fig. 19].

[0089] In the embodiments shown, the pivot stroke of the second element 13,14 relative to the first lower element 10, 11 is approximately 180°.

[0090] In the deployed position, the second ladder element 13, 14 is arranged in alignment with the lower element 10, 11, as shown in Figures 1, and in Figures 7 to 18.

[0091] By arranged in alignment, we mean here that the stringers of each second ladder element 13, 14 extend in the continuation, in continuity, along the same substantially vertical line as the stringers of the first ladder element 10, 11.

[0092] In an implementation, not shown, the deployed position of the second ladder elements 13, 14 defines, determines, the maximum height of ladders 2, 3.

[0093] In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 1], each of the second ladder elements 13, 14 is attached to a third element 15, 16, mounted pivotally between a folded position and a deployed position, [Fig. 1] and Figures 13 to 18 showing these third elements 15, 16 in the deployed position, fixing the maximum height of the scaffold ladders.

[0094] In other, unrepresented, embodiments, each third element is fixed to a fourth element, mounted pivotally relative to the third element, between a folded position and a deployed position.

[0095] It is understood that, above the first lower element 10, the maximum height of the ladder 2 is fixed by the dimension of each pivoting element 13, 15 and by the number of pivoting elements, and that the same applies to the maximum height of the ladder 3, fixed above the first lower element 11, by the dimension of each pivoting element 14, 16 and by the number of pivoting elements.

[0096] Advantageously, each pivoting element has a reduced height, for example on the order of 700 mm. The unfolding of the scaffolding thus takes place over a reduced stroke.

[0097] In the embodiments shown, the second ladder element 13, 14 is formed by assembling crossbeams or rungs between stringers. Similarly, the third ladder element 15, 16 is formed by assembling crossbeams or rungs between stringers.

[0098] Advantageously, the pivoting elements 13, 15 of ladder 2 are of similar structure to the lower element 10, and the same is true of the pivoting elements 14, 16 of ladder 3 which are similar to the lower element 11.

[0099] Advantageously, scales 2, 3 are of similar structure.

[0100] The ladder elements can be made of steel or aluminum alloy, or even of composite material, for example with a polymer matrix reinforced with glass fibers, carbon fibers, or flax fibers.

[0101] In certain embodiments, the rungs and stringers are assembled by welding and are, for example, made of aluminum alloy. Such a method of assembly provides significant safety against the risk of accidental disassembly.

[0102] In other embodiments, the assembly of the rungs and stringers is carried out by screwing, or stapling using tabs, tenons, lugs, or the like which can be engaged in slots provided for this purpose in the stringers, and then deformed using a crimping tool.

[0103] In other embodiments, the assembly of the rungs and stringers is carried out by interlocking.

[0104] Advantageously, the rungs and stringers are joined by expansion or crimping, the ladder components being metallic and tubular, in particular a light alloy such as aluminum alloy. For assembly by crimping, the rungs are provided, on their two lateral ends, with at least one swaged section that engages in the holes in the uprights or stringers. The end of these swaged sections protrudes on the outer face of the uprights, and this end is deformed by crimping, or alternatively by rolling, flaring, crimping, or stamping. The simple Crimping leads to deformation of the swag on the outer face of the upright. Double crimping, performed on both the outer and inner faces of the upright, is stronger than single crimping, since it allows for tightening on both sides of the upright wall.

[0105] In the deployed position, the second ladder element 13, 14 is arranged in alignment with the lower element 10, 11, and the third element 15, 16 is arranged in alignment with the second element 13, 14.

[0106] Thus, the stringers of each second ladder element 13, 14 extend in the continuation, in continuity, along the same substantially vertical line as the stringers of the first ladder element 10, 11, and the stringers of the third element 15, 16 extend in the continuation, in continuity, along the same substantially vertical line as the stringers of the second element 13, 14.

[0107] Advantageously, in the deployed position, the stringers of the second element 13, 14 and the stringers of the first element 10, 11 together define a substantially smooth cylindrical surface.

[0108] In the embodiments shown, the stringers of the ladder elements are in the form of tubes or profiles with a round section.

[0109] In other embodiments, the ladder elements' stringers are in the form of tubes or profiles with an elliptical cross-section.

[0110] In other embodiments, the stringers of the ladder elements are in the form of tubes or profiles with a quadrilateral cross-section.

[0111] By substantially smooth cylindrical surface, we mean here that the scale elements define, in deployed position, an external surface which does not have high roughness or asperity, particularly to the touch.

[0112] The risks of injury to the user's hands, gripping the stringers when climbing the ladder, are thus reduced.

[0113] Elements can also be mounted to slide vertically on the ladders, along the entire height of the ladder elements. A floor or floor support can thus be provided with rails, mounted to slide on the ladders.

[0114] The scaffold 1 includes a work platform 20, the height of the work platform 20 being defined by the position of a platform 24. In [Fig.1], the work platform 20 is arranged in the extreme highest position.

[0115] Floor 24 is advantageously slip-resistant and is for example embossed, ribbed, or perforated.

[0116] The floor 24 can be made of metal, in particular aluminum alloy or steel, or of composite material, for example polymer matrix and fiber reinforcement glass.

[0117] The workstation 20 includes a guardrail provided with three elements, namely a handrail 21 or top rail, an intermediate rail 22 and a toe board 23.

[0118] As shown in [Fig. 1], handrail elements 21 extend in the front and rear parts of the scaffold 1, along the length of the workstation 20, and on both sides of the scaffold 1, over the width of the workstation 20.

[0119] Similarly, intermediate rail elements 22 extend in the front part, in the rear part and on both sides of the scaffolding 1, and plinth elements 23 also extend in the front and rear part and on both lateral sides of the workstation 20.

[0120] The plinth 23 limits the risk of objects such as tools falling from the floor 24. This plinth 23 forms a stop for the user's feet, reducing the risk of falling.

[0121] The height of the plinth 23 is advantageously ten centimeters or more than ten centimeters.

[0122] In some implementations, the floor and the skirting board were made from material, for example from injection molding.

[0123] In other embodiments, the plinth 23 is fixed to the floor. In certain particular embodiments, the plinth 23, especially at the front and rear of the workstation, is hinged to the floor between a deployed position for use and a compact folded position for storage or transport.

[0124] The width of the floor 24 is for example at least sixty centimeters, and its length at least one meter.

[0125] In some embodiments, the top rail and the intermediate rail are formed of articulated tubes, in particular of aluminium alloy or steel.

[0126] When the scaffolding is intended for electrical work, the profiles forming the guardrail and the ladders are advantageously made of insulating material, such as composite material, for example with polymer matrix and glass fibers or flax fibers.

[0127] A workspace is delimited at workstation 20, this workspace being secured, in particular with regard to the risks of falling, at different heights of the user's body.

[0128] A first safety measure, at the height of the user's feet, is provided by the plinth 23.

[0129] A second safety feature, at the user's leg height, is provided by the intermediate rail 22 of the guardrail.

[0130] A third safety feature, at the height of the user's pelvis, is provided by the upper rail or handrail 21 of the guardrail.

[0131] The intermediate rails 22 and upper rails 21 of the guardrail provide safety to the user against a lateral fall or a fall forward or backward, i.e. substantially over 360°.

[0132] In the embodiment shown, the scaffolding 1 is provided with four stabilizers 30, allowing the ground footprint to be increased, the base of these stabilizers 30 advantageously comprising an elastomer pad.

[0133] In other embodiments, not shown, the scaffolding is provided with stabilizing feet, allowing the footprint to be increased, and on which a wheel is fixed, the wheel being equipped with a brake.

[0134] The stabilizers or stabilizing feet define a support polygon for the scaffold 1.

[0135] The scaffolding 1 is provided with diagonals 40, 41, 42, 43.

[0136] Advantageously, each diagonal is formed of two articulated elements, allowing them to be stored in a compact position when the scaffolding is in its configuration of [Fig.2], which represents the scaffolding of [Fig.1], in its compact, folded, storage or transport state.

[0137] For guidance purposes, the dimensions of the scaffolding, in its compact folded position, are as follows: height 1200 mm, width 800 mm, thickness 700 mm.

[0138] Such dimensions are advantageous, the scaffold 1 being thus movable and maneuverable, for example for passage through a building door frame, or for transport in a van, a pickup truck or a commercial vehicle.

[0139] As an indication, the weight of such scaffolding is in the order of 60 to 65 kg, for a working height of 4.8 m.

[0140] In the compact storage or transport configuration shown in [Fig. 1], the platform 24 of the scaffold 1 is positioned on one side. The platform 24 includes an access hatch, in a manner known per se. As will become apparent later in this description, the platform is advantageously the only detachable part of the entire folding rolling scaffold, the other parts of the scaffold 1 forming a single unit.

[0141] In a first unfolding step, the scaffold 1 moves from its compact storage position, shown in [Fig.2], to the position of [Fig.3], by operation of an articulation mechanism 4.

[0142] In the state shown in [Fig.3], the two ladders 2, 3 and the side guardrail elements are in the folded position, and the two ladders 2, 3 are manually moved apart from each other until they reach their maximum separation.

[0143] In a second unfolding step, the scaffold 1 passes from a state as shown in [Fig.3] to a state as shown in [Fig.4], the two elements of The side guardrails are pivoted approximately 180°. Advantageously, the movement of the side guardrail elements takes place between the two ladders 2 and 3.

[0144] As shown in [Fig.4], each side guardrail element comprises a side handrail 21a, 21b, a side intermediate rail 22a, 22b, and a side toe board 23a, 23b. The side elements of the guardrail of the workstation 20 are thus put in place by a simple 180° pivoting of two elements, without tools.

[0145] In a third unfolding stage, the scaffolding changes from a state as shown in [Fig. 4] to a state as shown in [Fig. 5], with the front 21c and rear 21d handrail elements 21 and the front 22c and rear 22d intermediate rail elements 22 being deployed between the side guardrail elements. The terms front and rear are used here with reference to the arrangement shown in [Fig. 5], without implying any final orientation of the scaffolding 1.

[0146] Advantageously, the front 21c and rear 21d elements of the handrail 21 are integrated into a side guardrail element and are thus captive. Similarly, the front 22c and rear 22d elements of the intermediate rail 22 are integrated into a side guardrail element and are thus captive.

[0147] In a fourth unfolding step, the scaffolding passes from a state represented in [Fig.5] to a state represented in [Fig.6], the platform 24 being put in place at a first working height.

[0148] In a fifth unfolding step, the second ladder elements 13, 14 are pivoted to their deployed position of alignment with the lower elements 10, 11, resulting in a state represented in [Fig.7].

[0149] In the state represented in [Fig.7], the third scale elements 15, 16 are in a folded position, substantially parallel to the second scale elements 13, 14.

[0150] In subsequent steps shown in Figures 8 to 12, the platform 24 is raised on one side and then the other of the scaffolding 1, until the workstation 20 is brought to a second height, and two diagonals 40, 41 are put in place, resulting in the state of [Fig. 12]. Advantageously, the diagonals 40, 41 are integrated into the platform, and are thus captive.

[0151] During the manual raising movement of the floor, advantageously, a floor support is mounted sliding on the height of the elements 10, 13 of ladder 2, and of the elements 11, 14 of ladder 3.

[0152] In a step represented in [Fig.13], the third scale elements 15, 16 are rotated relative to the second elements 13, 14, so as to come into alignment with these second elements 13, 14.

[0153] In subsequent steps shown in Figures 14 to 17, the platform is raised on one side and then the other of the scaffolding 1, until the work platform 20 is brought to a third height, and two diagonals 42, 43 and the stabilizers 30 are put in place, resulting in the state of [Fig.18]. The plinth elements are then pivoted into a horizontal position, leading to the final state shown in [Fig. 1].

[0154] Advantageously, the scaffold 1 includes means for locking the third ladder elements 15, 16 in their unfolded position, and means for locking the second ladder elements 13, 14 in their deployed position.

[0155] Advantageously, the locking means are automatic locking means.

[0156] By automatic means, we mean here means which do not require any additional action from the user for their actuation in the locked position, the locking of the ladder elements being obtained when they are pivoted to the unfolded or deployed position.

[0157] In some implementations, the locking means include a male element forming a latch, such as a plate or bar that snaps into a female element, by means of its weight or by means of a spring, for example a torsion spring.

[0158] Figures 19 to 21 illustrate such an implementation.

[0159] The following is described as an articulation of two stringers of two ladder elements.

[0160] It is understood that this articulation is advantageously present for each of the two stringers of each ladder element, as shown in the figures.

[0161] A first plate 50 is mounted securely to a trunnion or stud 51, inserted in the extreme part of a first longitudinal member of a ladder element 13, 14.

[0162] A second plate 52 is mounted integrally with a trunnion 53 or a stud, inserted in the extreme part of a second longitudinal member of a ladder element 10 11.

[0163] The insertion of the trunnion 51, 53 into the extreme part of the longeron is for example carried out by force.

[0164] In other embodiments, the trunnion 51, 53 is slid into the stringer and held in position by a fastener, such as a pin, for example a cotter pin, or even by a rivet or a screw.

[0165] The first plate 50 and the second plate 52 are articulated in rotation around an axis 54, advantageously between two extreme positions.

[0166] In a first extreme position, the two plates 50, 52 are substantially aligned and the two trunnions 51, 53 are substantially parallel to each other, as shown in figures 19 to 21.

[0167] When the scaffold 1 is in the stowed or stored position, as shown in [Fig.2], the two plates 50, 52 are aligned substantially horizontally, and the stringers of the ladder elements in which the trunnions 51, 53 are mounted are substantially parallel and arranged vertically, as shown in [Fig. 19].

[0168] Elastic means 55, such as deformable legs, allow the ladder elements to be held in a folded position, as schematically shown in [Fig. 19].

[0169] In a second extreme position, the two plates 50, 52 are opposite each other, and the two trunnions 51, 53 are aligned with each other. The stringers of the ladder elements in which the trunnions 51, 53 are mounted are continuous, aligned, and extend in the same vertical direction, as shown in particular in Figures 7 to 12.

[0170] Advantageously, unlocking the ladder elements requires a deliberate, intentional action by the user.

[0171] Accidental or unintentional unlocking of ladder elements is thus excluded.

[0172] In the embodiments shown, the locking means include a latch 60 pivotally mounted on one of the two plates 50, 52, for example plate 50, around an axis 61, the latch 60 engaging by means of a spring, unlocking requiring manual action against the stiffness of the spring.

[0173] The spring is for example a spiral type spring, wound around the pivot axis 61 of the latch 60. In other embodiments, the spring is a spring steel blade.

[0174] The latch 60 is for example made of metal alloy or polymer material, in particular fiber-reinforced.

[0175] The latch 60 is elastically deformed during the rotation of the moving plate 50 relative to the fixed plate 52.

[0176] Advantageously, an extreme part 62 of the latch 60 is brightly coloured, for example made in the form of a tip made of red coloured polymer material.

[0177] The extreme part 62 of the latch is for example fitted or overmolded.

[0178] The pivoting movement of a second ladder element 13, 14, relative to the lower element 10, 11 takes place around the axis 54 of rotation of the two plates 50, 52, until the automatic locking of the latch 60.

[0179] Similarly, the pivoting movement of a third ladder element 15, 16 relative to a second ladder element 13, 14 takes place around the axis 54 of rotation of two plates 50, 52, until the automatic locking of the latch 60.

[0180] More broadly, during the unfolding of the ladders 2, 3, the pivoting movement of an upper ladder element relative to a lower ladder element takes place around the axis of rotation of two plates 50, 52, advantageously up to the automatic locking of a latch.

[0181] As shown in the figures, during the rotation of a ladder element through a stroke of approximately 180°, to move from a folded position to an extended position, two latches are advantageously elastically deformed until they reach their position The locking mechanism ensures high safety for ladder 2 and 3 in the extended position. The risks of accidental or unintentional disassembly are eliminated, as folding the ladder sections requires the deliberate and simultaneous activation of two locking latches 60.

[0182] The invention has many advantages.

[0183] The platform and guardrails forming the workstation are installed in a lowered position, and the workstation is then gradually raised to the desired height. This eliminates the need to climb scaffolding to install the guardrails.

[0184] All the elements forming the scaffolding are contained within a small volume, and the risk of losing or forgetting elements is reduced, as the scaffolding comprises only two sets of elements. The first set consists of the platform on which the longitudinal toe board elements and two diagonal reinforcements are mounted; the second set comprises the remaining components of the scaffolding. In each of the two sets, the parts are assembled and secured by a connection that cannot be easily disassembled.

[0185] The scaffold is of reduced weight, allowing it to be handled on its wheels by a single person, for transport or storage in the compact state, or for movement in the unfolded state.

[0186] For guidance purposes, the weight of the platform is approximately 13 kg, the rest of the scaffolding weighs approximately 47 kg, the compact dimensions shown in [Fig.2] being approximately 1200 mm high, 800 mm wide and 690 mm deep, for a scaffolding allowing platform heights between 0.75 m and 2.75 m.

[0187] The number of possible working heights is for example from two to ten, the step between two successive heights being a function of the spacing of the rungs of ladders 2, 3. The step is for example between 200 mm and 400 mm, and is in particular 300 mm.

[0188] The folding and unfolding of the scaffolding can be easily carried out by a single person, without tools or means of assembly such as screws or pins.

[0189] The scaffolding is of reduced dimensions, in its compact position, allowing in particular the passage of doors, 0.73 m wide.

[0190] The height of the scaffold in compact position is reduced, advantageously to the order of 1.2 m, allowing its transport in a vehicle such as a van or utility vehicle.

[0191] The scaffolding allows the working height to be adjusted to different heights, for example between 0.75 m and 2.75 m. The scaffolding advantageously allows a working height to be chosen from among eight, the platform height being 0.75 m, 0.95 m, 1.25 m, 1.55 m, 1.85 m, 2.15 m, 2.45 m, and 2.75 m.

Claims

Demands

1. A rolling scaffold (1), the components of which are mobile between a compact position and at least one deployed position, the compact position being a transport or storage position of the scaffold (1), the deployed position being a position of use, the scaffold (1) comprising a work platform (20) supported by two ladders (2, 3), the two ladders (2, 3) comprising a first lower element (10, 11), and a second element (13, 14), the first element (10, 11) and the second element (13, 14) comprising two stringers connected by at least one cross member, characterized in that the second element (13, 14) is mounted to rotate movably relative to the first lower element (10, 11), between a folded position and a deployed position, the stringers of the second element (13, 14) being placed in alignment with the stringers of the first element (10, 11) lower, in the deployed position.

2. Scaffolding (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that in the deployed position, the stringers of the second element (13, 14) and the stringers of the first element (10, 11) together define a substantially smooth cylindrical surface.

3. Scaffolding (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the two ladders (2, 3) comprise a third element (15, 16), forming with the second element (13, 14) a rotating mobile assembly with the lower first element (10, 11), between a folded position and a deployed position, the third element (15, 16) being rotationally mobile relative to the second element (13, 14), between a folded position and a deployed position, the stringers of the third element (15, 16) being placed in alignment with the stringers of the second element (13, 14), in the deployed position.

4. Scaffolding (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that in the unfolded position, the stringers of the third element (15, 16) and the stringers of the second element (13, 14) together define a substantially smooth cylindrical surface.

5. Scaffolding (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that it comprises means for locking the third ladder elements (15, 16) in their unfolded position, and means for locking the second elements (13, 14) of the ladder in their deployed position.

6. Scaffolding (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the locking means are automatic locking means.

7. Scaffolding (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the locking means comprise a male element forming a latch (60) which engages in a female element, by its weight or by means of a spring.

8. Scaffolding (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it comprises two side guardrails mounted movable in rotation between a stowed position and a deployed position, the rotation stroke of each side guardrail between the stowed position and the deployed position extending over approximately 180° relative to the first ladder element (10, 11).

9. Scaffolding (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that it comprises two movable assemblies between a close position and a distant position, each assembly comprising a first lower ladder element (10, 11), a side guardrail, and a second ladder element (13, 14), the side guardrail and the second ladder element (13, 14) being arranged on either side of the first lower ladder element (10, 11).

10. Scaffolding (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that the two assemblies are connected to each other by a scissor mechanism.