Scaffolding tower and scaffolding and use of the tower and scaffolding

Abstract

The invention provides a scaffolding tower comprising a plurality of modules hinged one above the other, each module (12) comprising a platform and columns hinged to the platform, the columns being further hinged along their length. The tower is capable of occupying a folded configuration in which each module is in a folded position and an unfolded configuration by vertical unfolding module by module, in which each module is in an unfolded position. The module (12) further comprises a staircase (112) hinged to the module at one end, the staircase being positioned during the unfolding of the module or following the movement of the module during folding. The invention also relates to scaffolding. The invention allows for savings in time and safety. Abstract figure: Figure 23

Description

Title of the invention: Scaffolding tower and scaffolding and use of the tower and scaffolding. Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a scaffolding tower, a scaffold comprising the tower and the use of the tower and the scaffolding. State of the art

[0002] When carrying out temporary construction or event work, scaffolding may be used. Erecting the scaffolding requires progressively assembling the levels along its length. The posts and platforms are assembled one after the other until the desired height is reached.

[0003] The installation of traditional scaffolding is lengthy, from the preparation before delivery to the site of the various parts to the assembly - and is not without dangers during assembly or disassembly. Description of the invention

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide a scaffold that is faster to install and in a safe manner.

[0005] For this purpose the invention proposes a scaffolding tower comprising a plurality of modules articulated one above the other, each module comprising a floor and posts articulated to the floor, the posts being further articulated in their length, the scaffolding tower being able to occupy a folded configuration in which each module is in a folded position and an unfolded configuration by vertical unfolding module by module, in which each module is in an unfolded position.

[0006] According to one variant, the modules are unfolded independently of each other.

[0007] According to one variant, a module is able to unfold by vertical pulling of the upper module or by vertical lifting of the last unfolded module.

[0008] According to one variant, each post of a module has a hinge to the floor of said module and a hinge to the floor of the module above, each post also having a hinge in the length which is offset laterally with respect to the other hinges of the post, in the unfolded position of the module.

[0009] According to one variant, the transition to the folded or unfolded position of a module is possible only by vertically lifting the module.

[0010] According to one variant, between the folded position of the modules and the unfolded position of the modules, the articulation along the length of the posts is aligned with the other joints of the posts to the floors and in the unfolded position of the modules, the joint in the length of the posts is offset laterally relative to the other joints of the posts to the floors.

[0011] According to one variant, the posts of each module are connected in pairs by a torsion bar, each module further includes at least one safety railing connected to one post of each pair, the safety railing blocking the joint along the length of the two posts of the pair in the unfolded position of the module and releasing the joint along the length of the two posts of the pair in the folded position of the module.

[0012] According to one variant, in the aligned position of the joint in the length of the posts with the other joints of the posts to the floors, the rotation of the railing activates a cam follower along a cam until a position of the railing in which the joint in the length of the posts is positioned laterally offset with respect to the other joints of the posts to the floors, this position of the railing corresponding to the unfolded position of the modules.

[0013] According to one variant, the rotation of the railing simultaneously activates a cam follower along a cam at the post of each pair to which the railing is connected.

[0014] According to one variant, the railing is immobilized relative to the posts to which it is connected by the cam follower at the end of the cam and by a pin between the railing and a sleeve supporting the cam, the two posts to which the railing is connected and the modules are held in the unfolded position.

[0015] According to one variant, in the unfolded position of the modules, a plurality of pins, preferably four pins, lock the joint in the length of at least two posts and the railing with respect to the two posts to which it is connected.

[0016] According to one variant, the modules comprise a ladder with a joint in its length, the ladder is mobile in rotation around a post between a position of use of the ladder in the unfolded position of the respective module, the ladder being in a plane orthogonal to the axes of the joints of the posts and a position allowing the folding of the module.

[0017] According to one variant, each module further includes at least one end safety railing, mounted to rotate around a post and optionally removable.

[0018] According to one variant, the tower further comprises a vertical tension frame of the tower at the top of the upper module.

[0019] According to one variant, the floors are with at least one access hatch or without access hatch.

[0020] According to one variant, the tower further includes connecting tabs between two modules in the folded position or between two adjacent modules in the unfolded position, the connecting tabs optionally including an indentation adapting to the gap between the modules.

[0021] According to one variant, the tower further comprises telescopic extension rods movable between a retracted position in the floor and a position extracted from the floor, a floor extension being fixed on the rods in the extracted position.

[0022] According to one variant, the tower further includes removable or permanently fixed triangulation cables on the modules.

[0023] According to one variant, the lowest module comprises cylinders with a flat base or with flanges.

[0024] In particular, the module includes a staircase hinged to the module at one end.

[0025] The invention also relates to a use of the scaffolding tower described above, as a temporary structure for construction sites, as a temporary structure for events such as quick stands, private bleachers or bleacher support for a show, a sporting event or attractions, as a temporary structure for observation or measurement, as a temporary support such as for an antenna, sensors, lighting, sound equipment, electrical cables or advertising, as a temporary structure for crossing a roadway, as a workstation at height in industry, as temporary shelving or racking for shops or warehouses, as a fir tree or access tower or shoring tower, as a complement to or in association with one or more conventional scaffolding bays.

[0026] The invention also relates to a scaffold comprising a plurality of scaffold towers as described above, the towers being juxtaposed to one another.

[0027] According to one variant, junctions are positioned between two neighboring modules separated by a space or an angle.

[0028] The invention also relates to the use of scaffolding as described above, as a temporary structure for construction sites, as a temporary structure for events such as quick stands, private bleachers or bleacher supports for a show, sporting event or attraction, as a temporary structure for observation or measurement, as a temporary support such as for an antenna, sensors, lighting, sound equipment, electrical cables or advertising, as a temporary structure for spanning a roadway, as an elevated workstation in industry, as temporary shelving or racking for shops or warehouses, as a complement to or in association with one or more bays of conventional scaffolding.

[0029] All embodiments and advantages of the modules and scaffolding tower are applicable mutatis mutandis to the scaffolding and vice versa. The various embodiments can be used in combination or individually. Brief description of the figures

[0030] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, for the understanding of which reference should be made to the accompanying figures which show:

[0031] [Fig.1], the [Fig.1] is an example of the realization of a scaffolding tower;

[0032] [Fig.2], [Fig.2] shows an example of unfolding the tower modules;

[0033] [Fig.3], [Fig.3] shows another example of unfolding the tower modules;

[0034] [Fig.4], [Fig.4] shows an example of the realization of a module in the unfolded position;

[0035] [Fig. 5], [Fig. 5] shows an example of the realization of a module partially in folded or unfolded position;

[0036] [Fig.6], the [Fig.6] shows an example of the realization of a module in a folded position;

[0037] [Fig.7], [Fig.7] shows an example of the realization of the relative position of the joints of each post;

[0038] [Fig.8], [Fig.8] shows an example of the actuation of a safety railing of the modules;

[0039] [Fig.9], the [Fig.9] shows an example of the actuation of a safety railing of the modules;

[0040] [Fig.10], the [Fig.10] shows an example of the actuation of a safety railing of the modules;

[0041] [Fig. 11], [Fig. 11] shows an example of an implementation of the actuation of a safety railing of the modules;

[0042] [Fig. 12], [Fig. 12] shows an example of securing the joint of the posts;

[0043] [Fig. 13], the [Fig. 13] shows an example of the realization of a ladder within the modules;

[0044] [Fig. 14], the [Fig. 14] shows an example of the realization of a ladder within the modules;

[0045] [Fig. 15], the [Fig. 15] shows an example of the realization of a ladder within the modules;

[0046] [Fig. 16], the [Fig. 16] shows an example of the realization of a ladder within the modules;

[0047] [Fig. 17], [Fig. 17] shows an example of the realization of an end safety railing;

[0048] [Fig. 18], the [Fig. 18] shows an example of connecting tabs between two modules;

[0049] [Fig. 19], the [Fig. 19] shows an example of connecting tabs between two modules;

[0050] [Fig.20], [Fig.20] shows an example of the realization of elongated rods telescopic;

[0051] [Fig.21], [Fig.21] shows an example of a junction between two neighboring modules;

[0052] [Fig.22], the [Fig.22] shows an example of junction implementation between two neighboring modules;

[0053] [Fig.23], [Fig.23] shows an example of a module implementation with a staircase.

[0054] The drawings of the figures are not to scale. Similar elements are in Generally denoted by similar reference numerals in the figures. Within the scope of this document, identical or analogous elements may bear the same reference numerals. Furthermore, the presence of reference numerals or letters in the drawings shall not be considered limiting, including when such numerals or letters are indicated in the claims.

[0055] Detailed description of embodiments of the invention

[0056] The invention provides a scaffolding tower comprising a plurality of modules hinged one above the other, each module comprising a platform and columns hinged to the platform, the columns being further hinged along their length. The scaffolding tower is capable of occupying a folded configuration in which each module is in a folded position and an unfolded configuration by vertical unfolding module by module, in which each module is in an unfolded position. The advantage is a saving in time and cost during the installation and dismantling of the tower, while also improving the safety of the operators installing the tower.

[0057] By juxtaposing a plurality of scaffolding towers in an unfolded configuration, in which each module is in its unfolded position, a scaffold is obtained. The scaffold is an assembly of towers arranged in a column; the towers can be assembled side by side in their unfolded configuration or unfolded a few meters apart (for example, in the street next to the location where the scaffold is used) and then juxtaposed in their unfolded configuration. The same applies to dismantling. Erecting the scaffold by assembling the towers in series saves time – which is also the case for dismantling. By juxtaposition of towers, we mean that the towers and modules are side by side, aligned, and adjacent, without necessarily touching; a space may exist between them. towers. Also, juxtaposition means that the towers and modules are close together, perpendicular to each other (for example to follow a building angle) leaving an empty angle between the two.

[0058] Fig. 1 shows an example of the construction of a scaffolding tower 10 and the resulting scaffolding when a plurality of towers are juxtaposed. The scaffolding tower and the resulting scaffolding when a plurality of towers are juxtaposed can be used as temporary structures for construction sites, as temporary structures for events (quick stands, private bleachers or bleacher supports for a show, a sporting event or attractions, etc.).), as a temporary structure for observation or measurement, as a temporary support (for antennas, sensors, lighting, sound equipment, electrical cables or advertising), as a temporary structure for spanning a roadway, as an elevated work platform in industry, as temporary shelving or racking for shops or warehouses, as a shoring tower or access tower, as a supplement to or in conjunction with one or more bays of conventional scaffolding. Conventional scaffolding is defined as scaffolding erected by assembling tubes and fittings or with prefabricated elements (frame scaffolding, but especially also multidirectional scaffolding) in which the levels are progressively built up to the desired length and height of the scaffolding.

[0059] The tower 10 comprises a plurality of modules 12 articulated one above the other. Six modules 12 are shown by way of example in [Fig. 1]; it is understood that the tower may have more or fewer modules 12, depending on its use. Each module 12 comprises a floor 14 and columns 16. The columns support the modules above. The floors are a surface allowing operators to move around. The floors are, for example, a single-piece surface with a stiffening structure (such as a frame) or a surface supported by said structure. The surface may be made of metal, wood, or fiberglass. The surface may be permanently fixed to the structure or removable from the structure. The surface may be a single piece or composed of sub-sections—for example, 20 to 35 cm wide.The modules include components, such as posts or floor reinforcements, for example made of metal or fiberglass. It is conceivable that the floor of a module is supported by the posts of said module; preferably (and as described below, but not in a limiting manner), a module comprises the floor 14 on which the posts 16 are placed and hinged – at their lower ends. The modules 12 may include four posts 16 to ensure the stability of the tower 10. But the invention is not limited to the presence of... of four posts 16 per module, as long as the stability of the tower 10 is ensured. The modules 12 are hinged to each other in the direction that the upper end of the posts 16 is connected and hinged to the floor 14 of the module 12 above. In addition, the posts 16 are hinged along their length. In other words, between their ends, the posts 16 have at least one hinge 18 allowing them to bend. Preferably, the posts have a single hinge 18, allowing them to bend in half.

[0060] Figure 1 shows the tower 10 in a folded configuration (on the left of Figure 1) in which each module 12 is in a folded position. The columns 16 are then folded in half lengthwise at the joint 18 and brought down against the lower (of the module) and upper (of the upper module) floors by the joints at their ends. Figure 1 also shows the tower 10 in an unfolded configuration (on the right of Figure 1) by vertical unfolding module by module, in which each module 12 is in an unfolded position. The joints 18 along the length of the columns 16 and the joints at the floors allow the unfolding and folding of the modules 12 and thus of the tower 10.

[0061] The tower 10 is therefore a single-unit, unfoldable, and collapsible system, for which the operator does not have to carry and assemble structural components. The platforms 14 and columns 16 are already in place when the tower is in the folded or unfolded configuration. The tower saves time during its setup and removal. The advantage is that it is easier to prepare the tower before installation because there is no risk of forgetting platforms 14 or columns 16, nor during removal. In addition, the tower's height is predetermined by stacking as many modules 12 as necessary to achieve the desired height. Furthermore, the tower in its folded configuration can be easily transported by truck – which greatly facilitates delivery of the tower.

[0062] Figure 2 shows an example of unfolding the modules 12. It also shows the construction of the scaffolding 9 by juxtaposing the towers 10. In practice, the modules 16 are unfolded one after the other, starting with the highest module of the tower. A lifting device, such as a crane 20 (fixed or vehicle-mounted), allows the modules 12 to be unfolded one after the other by vertically pulling on the upper module 121 (from above the upper module 121). In Figure 2, the upper module 121 supported by the crane is already in the unfolded position, and the lower module 122 is being unfolded. The lower modules are still in a folded position. According to Figure 2, several towers 10 with three modules 12 (by way of example) are already in the unfolded configuration. The modules unfold using gravity, which facilitates their deployment. As mentioned above, the towers can be placed in configuration unfolded in a juxtaposed manner or apart and then juxtaposed once in unfolded configuration by movement by the lifting equipment.

[0063] Figure 3 shows another example of unfolding the modules 12. It also shows the construction of the scaffold 9 by juxtaposing the towers 10. Here, a lifting device, such as a forklift 22, vertically unfolds the modules along the boom 24, lifting the last unfolded module vertically. In other words, the top module 121 is unfolded first, then the device lifts this module vertically from below in order to unfold the module below it – and so on, lifting the tower from below the last unfolded module. As in Figure 2, the modules 16 are unfolded one after the other, starting with the highest module of the tower. The modules unfold by gravity, which facilitates their deployment. A tower 10, for example, comprising three modules 12, is already in its unfolded configuration. A second tower 10 is being deployed.As indicated above, the towers can be deployed side-by-side or spaced apart and then deployed side-by-side by lifting equipment. The embodiment shown in [Fig. 3] is particularly applicable when access from above is not possible (for example, in a building).

[0064] To allow vertical deployment of the modules 12, the tower 10 may include a vertical traction frame 13 for the tower 10, at the top of the upper module. Figures 1 to 3 show the frame 13. The posts 16 are bolted to the corners of the frame 13. In the center, a lifting ring allows for gripping, preferably by a lifting device (whether in the deployment mode of [Fig. 2] or 3). The ring is positioned on the axis of the center of gravity of the tower, which allows the uppermost module to be lifted and, if necessary, the tower as long as it remains vertical.

[0065] The floors 14 allow operators to move within the tower 10. The floors have at least one access hatch, allowing passage from one module 12 to another upper or lower module 12 of the tower. The floors 14 may have one or two access hatches. The floors may also have no access hatches.

[0066] Figure 4 shows an example of an embodiment of a module 12 in the unfolded position. In particular, the four posts 16, for example, are shown in more detail – without the floor 14. The posts 16 have a hinge 26 at their lower end, connecting the posts 16 to the floor 14 of the module 12 in a hinged manner. As indicated with reference to Figure 1, the posts can also be hinged along their length, for example by the hinge 18. In addition, the posts 16 have a hinge 28 at their upper end, connecting the posts 16 to the floor 14 of the upper module 12 in a hinged manner. In Figure 4, the module 12 (without the floor) is in the unfolded position. Furthermore, the posts 16 of each module 12 They are connected in pairs by a torsion bar 30. This allows the synchronized unfolding of the posts 16 in pairs, and prevents the posts from twisting. This improves the transition from one position to another of the module 12.

[0067] [Fig. 5] shows an example of an embodiment of a module 12 partially in a folded or unfolded position. In this intermediate position (whether towards the unfolded position or towards the folded position), the joint 18 allows the posts 16 to be folded in two and the joints 26 and 28 allow two superimposed floors to be brought together, to achieve the configuration shown on the left of [Fig. 1].

[0068] Figure 6 shows an example of a module 12 in a folded position. The posts 16 are folded in half by means of the joint 18, and the joints 26 and 28 of each post 16 are brought closer together. In this position, the modules 12 have a minimal footprint, which allows for easy transport and storage.

[0069] [Fig.7] shows an example of the realization of the relative position of the joints 18, 26, 28 of each post 16, in different positions of the posts 16. The joint 18 in the length of each post 16 can be offset laterally with respect to the other joints 26, 28 of the post, in the unfolded position of the module 12. On the left part of [Fig.7], the post 16 is in a state corresponding to the (fully) unfolded position of the module 12; We see that the articulation axis represented by a point of the articulation 18 is not aligned with the articulation axis represented by a point of the upper articulation 28 and lower articulation 26. This allows us to ensure a first safety of the tower 10 in the sense that, by this offset or non-alignment of the three articulations, the posts 16 are in a stable state, allowing an operator to complete the securing of the posts and modules as will be described later in more detail.To move the modules from a folded to an unfolded position, or vice versa, the joints 18, 26, and 28 of the columns are actuated so that they pass through a state in which joint 18 is aligned with the other two joints, 26 and 28; the columns 16 are in an unstable state, allowing them to be manipulated. On the right side of [Fig. 7], a rightward movement of joint 18 causes column 16 to fold (towards the state shown in [Fig. 6]); conversely, a leftward movement of joint 18 causes the column to unfold (and reach the state shown in the left side of [Fig. 7]). Whether folding or unfolding a module, the columns 16 pass through the unstable state only by vertically lifting the module. The vertical lifting is performed by the lifting device (which either lifts the entire tower by pulling or lifts the last unfolded module from below).Performing a lifting action helps to secure the installation and dismantling process.

[0070] Figures 8 to 11 show an example of an embodiment of the actuation of a safety railing for modules 12. Each module 12 may further comprise at least one safety railing 32 connected to a post 16 of each pair. The safety railing 32 locks the joint 18 along the length of the two posts 16 of the pair in the unfolded position of module 12 and releases the joint 18 along the length of the two posts 16 of the pair in the folded position of module 12. The railing 32 thus allows two posts 16 of the module to be locked in an unfolded state and two posts 16 of the module to be released in a folded state, which is sufficient to lock or release the entire module 12. Furthermore, the railing 32 allows this change of state to be synchronized for both posts of each pair – and therefore for both pairs – thanks to the torsion bar 30. The description in figures 8-11 applies to both posts of the pair - in a synchronized and reversed manner.

[0071] Figure 8 shows the railing 32 sliding in a sleeve 34 of one post 16 and sliding in a similar sleeve 34 of the other post 16 of the pair. The sleeve 34 is, for example, fixed to a bracket 36 of the joint 18. According to the arrows 36, the upper and lower parts of the post 16 connected by the joint 18 are moving towards the unfolded state of the post 16. The railing 32 slides in the sleeve 34 as well as in the sleeve 34 of the other post 16 of the pair. This is also visible in Figures 4 to 6 (in the opposite direction, towards the folded state of the posts 16). In the unfolded position of the module 12, the two sleeves 34 are close to the free ends of the railing 32; in the folded position of module 12, the two sleeves 34 move closer together towards the center of the railing 32.

[0072] According to [Fig. 8], the three joints 18, 26, 28 are aligned, as in the right-hand part of [Fig. 7] – the post is in an unstable state. According to [Fig. 9], joint 18 is offset laterally relative to the other joints 26, 28, as in the left-hand part of [Fig. 7] – the post is in a stable state. From [Fig.8], in the aligned position of the joint 18 in the length of the posts with the other joints 26, 28 of the posts 16, the rotation of the railing 32 activates a cam follower 38 along a cam 40 until a position of the railing 32 in which the joint 18 in the length of the posts is positioned laterally offset with respect to the other joints 26, 28 of the posts, this position of the railing 32 corresponding to the unfolded position of the modules 12, represented on [Fig.9].

[0073] In [Fig.8], the cam follower 38 is not in the cam 40; in [Fig.9], the cam follower 38 is engaged in the cam 40 by the rotational movement of the rail 32 according to the arrow 42. The cam follower 38 has a movement according to the arrow 44 along the cam 40, in a helical section of the cam 40.

[0074] Figures 10 and 11 show the final movement of the cam follower 38 towards the end of the cam 40, in order to lock the handrail in the unfolded position of module 12. The cam 40 has a straight section connecting the helical section to a locking section. According to [Fig. 10], the handrail 32 is moved longitudinally so as to move the cam follower 38 in the straight section as indicated by arrow 45. The posts continue the movement as indicated by arrows 46. According to [Fig.

[11] , the cam follower 38 has reached the end of the straight section of the cam 40. A rotational movement of the railing 32 along the arrow 48 allows the cam follower 38 to engage in the locking section of the cam 40. The cam follower 38 allows the railing 32 to be locked and therefore the two posts 16 connected to the railing 32 to be locked in their unfolded and stable state.

[0075] Thus, the rotation of the handrail 32 simultaneously activates the cam follower 38 along the cam 40 at the post of each pair to which the handrail 32 is connected. Activation of the handrail 32 by a single operator therefore allows the handrail to be locked or unlocked from two posts 16, and thus from the entire module 12, in a synchronized manner. This allows the modules to be quickly secured in the unfolded position or, conversely, allows the modules 12 to be unlocked for folding. All of this is operated safely with the lifting device supporting the modules.

[0076] Fig. 11 shows how to secure the railing 32 and the module 12 in the unfolded position. The railing 32 is immobilized relative to the posts 16 to which it is connected by the cam follower 38 at the end of the cam 40 - this ensuring a first securing of the railing 32 and the module 12. In addition, the railing 32 is immobilized relative to the posts 16 to which it is connected by a pin 50 between the railing 32 and the sleeve 34 supporting the cam - this ensuring a second securing of the railing 32 and the module 12. The pin 50 extends through an orifice 52 through the sleeve 34 and the railing 32. The railing 32 held with the cam followers 38 at the bottom of the cam 40 and with the pins 50 is immobilized relative to the sleeves 34 and thus relative to the posts 16 of the pair; railing 32 prevents posts 16 from folding back.Thus, the two posts 16 to which the railing is attached, and therefore all the modules, are held and secured in the unfolded position. The installation is therefore simple and quick, while ensuring a high level of safety.

[0077] The dismantling process is carried out in the reverse order of the assembly process described above – and is therefore just as easy while ensuring operator safety. As indicated, lifting or vertically pulling the modules with a lifting device allows them to be folded, in particular by passing through the unstable position of the posts, and this can be done safely.

[0078] The modules may include one or more safety railings – preferably two. In Figures 4 and 5, a second railing 33, lower than the railing 32, is shown. The railing 33 is connected to a post 16 of each pair by sliding within a sleeve similar to the sleeve 34. A pin 50 secures the railing 33 in position relative to the posts. Activating the railing 32 (towards the unfolded or folded position of the module) also actuates the railing 33.

[0079] In the unfolded position of the modules 12, a plurality of pins lock the posts 16 in the unfolded state as well as the railing 32 relative to the sleeves 34 and therefore relative to the posts 16. More specifically, preferably four pins 50 lock the joint 18 along the length of at least two posts 16 and the railing 32 relative to the two posts to which it is connected. According to [Fig. 11], a pin 50 is used to lock the railing 32 to each of the posts 16 of the pair to which it is connected. [Fig.

[12] shows an example of securing the joint 18 of the posts not connected to the railing 32. A pin 50 locks the joint 18 in the length of the posts 16. In the stable state of the posts 16 (in which the joint 18 is offset laterally with respect to the joints 26 and 28), a pin locks the stirrups 36 forming the joint 18 with respect to each other, by passing through an orifice 54.Thus, two pins 50 are used for the posts connected by the railing 32 and two pins 50 are used for the two other posts not connected by the railing 32 – therefore, only four pins are needed to secure a module in the unfolded position. Other pins are also used to lock other components such as the railing 33 in the unfolded position of the modules.

[0080] Figures 13 to 16 show an example of an embodiment of a ladder within the modules 12. The modules 12 may include a ladder 56 with a joint 58 along its length (one joint per ladder stile). The ladder 56 is rotationally movable around a post 16 between a position for use of the ladder 56 in the unfolded position of the respective module 12, the ladder 56 being in a plane orthogonal to the axes of rotation of the post joints, and a position allowing the module 12 to be folded. In the position allowing folding, the ladder is in the plane of the axes of rotation of the post joints. The ladder thus offers several advantages. The ladder 56 can be folded and unfolded at the same time as the rest of the module. It is therefore not necessary to add the ladder 56 at a later stage of assembly of the modules and the tower, nor to manage disassembly separately.The ladder 56 also helps to reinforce the safety of the modules 12 in that, in the position of use, the ladder prevents the joints 18, 26, 28 from bending. The ladder locks. the change in state of the posts further increases the security of the modules and the tower.

[0081] In [Fig. 13], a lower module 12 is in the folded position and an upper module is in the unfolded position. The ladder 56 of the upper module is in the working position in a plane orthogonal to the axes of the joints 18, 26, 28. The ladder 56 can be immobilized in the working position by a fixing 60 to the handrail 32. This prevents the ladder 56 from changing position during use.

[0082] In [Fig. 14], the ladder 56 is repositioned. The ladder 56 is in a position that allows the module 12 to be folded. The ladder 56 has been rotated along arrow 62 around a post 16. The ladder is in the plane of the axes of the joints 18, 26, 28. The axis of the joint 58 of each upright of the ladder 56 is parallel to the axes of the joints 18, 26, 28, which allows the ladder 56 to be folded at the same time as the module – thus facilitating the change of position of the module.

[0083] In [Fig. 15], after the ladder has been rotated according to [Fig. 14], module 12 can be moved into the folded position. The posts 16 are bent according to the arrows 64, causing the joints 18 to move inwards towards module 12. The movement of the joints 26 and 28 allows the floor 14 of the upper module to lower according to the arrow 66. The handrail 32 slides relative to the posts 16 to which it is connected, allowing the module to be moved into the folded position. The ladder 56 in the position of [Fig. 14] folds at the same time as the rest of module 12.

[0084] Figure 16 shows the tower 10 in its folded configuration, in which each module 12 is in the folded position. The ladder 56 has been folded at the same time as its respective module. In this configuration, the tower is compact, and it is not necessary to transport components such as posts, platforms, railings, and ladders separately; the tower forms a single, easily transportable unit.

[0085] Figure 17 shows an example of an end safety guardrail 68. It is conceivable that each module 12 may also include one or more end safety guardrails 68, rotatably mounted around a post 16. For example, for modules intended to be at the end of the scaffolding 9, the end guardrail 68 secures the installation. The guardrail 68 can be rotatably mounted around a post so that it can be opened if necessary. The guardrail 68 is preferably the size of half a lower post 16, so as to prevent a person from passing through but also to fold along with a pair of posts 16 connected by the torsion bar 30. This makes the guardrail 68 operational once the module 12 is unfolded without hindering the folding of the module 12.The railing 68 is mobile in rotation around a post 16 to be opened if necessary; in the closed position, the railing 68 can be secured by a . pin inserted into an orifice 70 and a post 16 opposite the post 16 around which the railing 68 is mobile in rotation.

[0086] Optionally, the end safety guardrail 68 is removable. It can be installed on the module as needed or removed. This may be the case for modules 12 that are not at the end of the scaffold and for which such a guardrail 68 is not necessary. To do this, the guardrail 68 is tilted upwards by its free edge in the direction of arrow 72 so that its edge connected to the rotation post 16 tilts in the direction of arrow 74. This allows the upper elbow 76 of the guardrail 68, which ensures the rotation of the guardrail 68 around the post 16, to be detached. The elbow 76 can be removed from the post 16. Then, a lower elbow 78 of the guardrail 68, which ensures the rotation of the guardrail 68 around the post 16, can in turn be removed from the post 16 in order to completely remove the guardrail 68.

[0087] Figures 18 and 19 show an example of connecting tabs between two modules 12. Figure 18 shows the tower 10 in its folded configuration with two modules 12 visible in the folded position. The tower is ready for transport. The tower 10 has connecting tabs 80 between two modules in the folded position. The connecting tabs ensure that the modules cannot unfold during transport or even transshipment. Preferably, a connecting tab 80 is provided at each of the four corners of the modules 12. A fastener 82 allows a connecting tab to be fixed between two modules and prevents unfolding. The connecting tabs 80 are, for example, screws with a wing nut so as to easily fix or remove the connecting tabs 80. The fixing tabs 80 can be rotatable relative to the modules, facilitating their use. The rotational movement can be around the fixing tab 82.

[0088] Figure 19 shows the tower 10 in its unfolded configuration with two modules 12 visible in the unfolded position. The tower 10 may include connecting tabs 80 between two adjacent modules 12 in the unfolded position. In other words, when the towers are positioned side by side, it is preferable to secure the towers together; the connecting tabs 80 allow two adjacent modules 12 from two different towers to be joined together. A rotational movement of the tabs secures the modules together.

[0089] The mounting brackets 80 may include at one end a hole for the passage of the fasteners 82. Whether the fastener 82 is tightened or loosened, the mounting brackets 80 remain attached to the respective module, thus preventing a mounting bracket 80 from being lost. For attachment to another module, the mounting brackets 80 may include another passage for the fastener at their other end, as shown in [Fig. 18]. The mounting brackets 80 are then attached at both ends to the modules. The mounting brackets 80 may also include Optionally, a comb-shaped indentation 81 allows the mounting tabs 80 to be attached to another module 12 positioned at a distance other than the gap between the two passages of the mounting elements of a tab. In [Fig. 19], it can be seen that the gap between two adjacent modules 12 is less than the length of a mounting tab 80. It is therefore possible to attach the modules to each other by means of a mounting element 82 at one end of a tab 80 and by another mounting element of an adjacent module by positioning the mounting element 80 in an indentation 81 of the mounting tab 80. The mounting tabs 80 thus allow two modules 12 to be attached to each other, while adapting to the space between the two modules.

[0090] Figure 20 shows an example of the embodiment of telescopic extension rods. The tower 10 may further include telescopic extension rods 84 that can move between a retracted position within the floor 14 of the respective module and a position extended from the floor 14. The arrow 85 shows the movement of the rods 84 towards the extended position. A floor extension 86 can then be attached to the rods 86 in the extended position. At least two rods 84 are provided per module to ensure the stability of the extensions 86; preferably, three rods 84 are provided to prevent the extensions 86 from buckling under the weight of a person. The telescopic nature of the rods 84 allows these rods and extensions to be used only when necessary, if there is a gap between the tower and a building against which the tower is extended. This also allows compliance with applicable standards.The extensions 86 are, for example, placed on the floor during tower preparation prior to installation; the extensions 86 are then simply positioned on the rods 84 according to arrow 88. The extensions 86 can be secured to the rods 84 using fasteners such as nuts, wing nuts, pins, or clips. The extensions 86 can also be attached to a module component during tower preparation prior to installation or dismantling to prevent them from falling during module unfolding or folding. It is also possible for the extensions 86 to be placed on the rods 84 during module folding or unfolding.

[0091] As can be seen in [Fig. 2], the tower 10 can also include removable or permanently attached triangulation cables 90 on the modules. The triangulation cables 90 prevent the modules, and therefore the tower, from folding laterally. The cables 90 are, for example, easily screwed between two floors using wing nuts. They are removable or permanently attached depending on whether or not these slack cables 90 hinder the handling of the tower in its folded position.

[0092] According to [Fig. 16], the lowest module 12 of the tower 10 can have flat-based or flanged jacks 92. The jacks 92 are, for example, telescopic parts—for example, by screwing / unscrewing—allowing the tower's flatness to be adjusted according to the ground. Flat-based jacks 92 allow the lowest module to be placed on the ground. Flanged jacks 92 allow the lowest module, and therefore the tower, on a lower structure. For example, it is possible to erect the tower on a lower scaffold allowing pedestrian access along a sidewalk or enabling the tower to span a doorway. One or more towers, and possibly the resulting scaffolding, can thus be combined with conventional scaffolding (as described previously).

[0093] Figure 21 shows an example of a junction 94 between two adjacent modules 12. The junctions 94 are positioned between two adjacent modules 12 separated by a gap. The junctions allow two modules from two different towers to be connected when a gap exists and this gap cannot be filled by a tower or module. The junctions 94 then serve as bridges or walkways. The modules may be in the same alignment but separated by a gap. The junction 94 then allows the two adjacent modules to be extended towards each other. The modules may be perpendicular to each other (for example, to follow a building corner), leaving an empty angle between them. The junction 94 then allows the angle between the two adjacent modules to be filled.

[0094] The junction 94 (between two modules separated by a space or an angle) comprises A platform 14 and a safety barrier 96. The barrier is hinged to the platform, allowing it to be folded to reduce its size when transporting the junctions 94. The barrier 96 has a locking mechanism 98 that allows the barrier to be locked to the guardrail 32 of the adjacent module to ensure operator safety. Two safety barriers 96 can also be used in the case of a corner junction 94.

[0095] The junction 94 (between two modules separated by a space or an angle) can further comprising a retractable lifting ring 102 in the floor 14 directly above the top of the safety barrier 96, positioned between 50 and 70° to the floor – preferably approximately 60° – and a double lifting ring 104 on the top of the barrier. The joint is capable of remaining substantially horizontal by lifting with a cable 100 fixed between the two rings 102 and 104 (maintaining the inclined barrier) and with a cable 106 fixed to ring 104.

[0096] Either the floor and the adjacent module 12 comprise projecting plates supporting a shaft 108 that enters a respective hole in the other floor or the adjacent module 12. According to [Fig. 21], the junction 94 (between two modules separated by a gap or an angle) may comprise projecting plates on the floor 14 that support the shaft 108 that enters the respective hole in an adjacent module. This allows the junction to be securely fixed to the adjacent module. In addition, a pin may be provided to prevent the shaft 108 from being withdrawn from the hole. This secures the attachment of the junctions 94 to the modules 12.

[0097] Figure 22 shows an example of a junction 94 between two adjacent modules. The junctions 94 are positioned between two adjacent modules 12 separated by an angle. A view from below is shown. A junction 94 intended to connect two adjacent modules 12 separated by an angle may include a floor 14 and crossbeams 110 on which the floor 14 rests. This ensures the stability of the junction 94 when walked on by an operator.

[0098] The junction 94 (between two modules separated by a space or an angle) may also include extension rods 84 as described above to support an extension 86.

[0099] Figure 23 shows an example of an embodiment of module 12 with a staircase 112. The staircase 112 allows easy movement between modules within the scaffolding tower; for example, the staircase allows operators to move more easily while carrying loads with both hands, which is not possible with the ladder 56. The staircase 112 can be brought into an unfolded module—or removed before the module is folded. Preferably, the staircase 112 is hinged to module 12 and is put in place when the module is unfolded or follows the module's movement when it is folded. For example, the staircase 112 is hinged to the module at its upper end and is able to slide on the platform of module 12 at its lower end. Thus, when the module is folded or unfolded, the staircase 112 follows the module's change of position. In the folded position of the module, the lower end of the staircase 112 slides and slides out of the module.In the unfolded module position, the lower end of the stair 112 slides and moves inwards towards the module. Once the module is unfolded and the stair 112 is in place, the lower end of the stair 112 is locked, for example, by a pin. The upper end of the stair 112 is, for example, hinged by the two uprights to the posts 16 or to the torsion bar 30. In addition, the stair 112 allows access to (or descent from) a higher module via an opening in the floor 14 – which may or may not be closed by a hatch.

[0100] The invention is therefore a modular, foldable, and simplified-assembly scaffolding solution. Installation time is saved because, generally, such an installation often closes a street. The scaffolding is a single unit, made up of foldable and unfoldable modules, for example, at least 6 m, preferably at least 10 m. The scaffolding can reach a height of 20 m, or even 30 meters. The scaffolding consists of juxtaposed towers; the scaffolding lacks ground-supported stabilizing arms extending beyond the ground surface of the modules, which allows the towers to be placed side by side in series. The deployment of a tower is carried out without human intervention by a mechanized method, preferably using a lifting device; this reduces the risk of accidents. Securing the tower using the various means described above is done by an operator, safely using the lifting device. In addition, the tower may include The number of components (such as posts, platforms, safety railings, ladders, etc., as applicable) already in place in the folded position of the tower is also present in the unfolded position – and vice versa. A 10-meter tower can weigh between 1,000 and 2,000 kg – for example – which is too heavy for a person to handle by hand (but requires lifting equipment). The modules are, for example, more than 2 meters wide, but preferably less than 2.4 meters wide to fit across a 2.5-meter-wide truck. The joints can be, for example, between 2 and 4 meters long.

[0101] The towers are of a height suitable for the use mentioned above and are designed to be placed side-by-side to cover a significant length of use. They are assembled in columns and side-by-side configurations, rather than in a line as is traditional. Their foldable and collapsible design, achieved through articulation, allows for a very compact folded size.

[0102] The towers 10 are designed to be pre-assembled and folded by articulation, making them as compact as possible. They are unfolded (and folded) by a lifting device, which raises the entire tower (from the top or from below the last unfolded module). All components are pre-assembled; no manual operation on the floor is required for installation and dismantling—only the activation of the described safety devices. The lifting device is, for example, a crane, a forklift, a crane truck, a telescopic handler, etc. The fact that the unfolding or folding process described above for the modules during installation or dismantling is only possible by vertically lifting the modules by the lifting device for each module level presupposes that the lifting device is present. The lifting device secures both the installation and dismantling (and therefore the lowering of the modules and towers).This prevents the folding process from occurring due to a sudden drop from a level without being secured from above by the lifting equipment. The described steps for folding and unfolding the modules and towers, as well as for juxtaposing the towers, ensure time savings and operator safety.

Claims

Demands

1. Scaffolding tower (10) comprising a plurality of modules (12) hinged one above the other, each module (12) comprising a platform (14) and posts (16) hinged to the platform (14), the posts (16) further being hinged along their length, the scaffolding tower (10) being able to occupy a folded configuration in which each module (12) is in a folded position and a unfolded configuration by vertical unfolding module by module, in which each module (12) is in an unfolded position, the module (12) further comprising a staircase (112) hinged to the module at one end, the staircase coming into position during the unfolding of the module or following the movement of the module during folding.

2. The scaffolding tower (10) according to claim 1, in which the modules (12) are unfolded independently of each other.

3. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a module (12) is capable of unfolding by vertical pulling of the top module or by vertical lifting of the last unfolded module.

4. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each post (16) of a module (12) has a hinge (26) to the floor (14) of said module (12) and a hinge (28) to the floor of the module above, each post (16) further having a hinge (18) in the length which is laterally offset from the other hinges of the post, in the unfolded position of the module.

5. The scaffolding tower (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the transition to the folded or unfolded position of a module is possible only by vertical lifting of the module.

6. The scaffolding tower (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein, between the folded position of the modules (12) and the unfolded position of the modules (12), the joint (18) in the length of the posts is aligned with the other joints (26, 28) of the posts to the platforms and in the unfolded position of the modules (12), the joint (18) in the length of the posts (16) is offset laterally with respect to the other joints (26, 28) of the posts to the floors.

7. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the posts of each module are connected in pairs by a torsion bar (30), each module (12) further comprises at least one safety railing (32) connected to one post (16) of each pair, the safety railing (32) blocking the joint (18) in the length of the two posts (16) of the pair in the unfolded position of the module (12) and releasing the joint (18) in the length of the two posts (16) of the pair in the folded position of the module (12).

8. The scaffolding tower (10) according to the preceding claim, when dependent on claim 6, wherein, in the aligned position of the joint (18) in the length of the posts with the other joints (26, 28) of the posts to the floors, the rotation of the handrail (32) activates a cam follower (38) along a cam (40) to a position of the handrail (32) in which the joint (18) in the length of the posts is positioned laterally offset from the other joints (26, 28) of the posts to the floors, this position of the handrail corresponding to the unfolded position of the modules.

9. The scaffolding tower (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the rotation of the handrail (32) simultaneously activates a cam follower (38) along a cam (40) at the post of each pair to which the handrail is connected.

10. The scaffolding tower (10) according to one of the two preceding claims, wherein the railing (32) is immobilized relative to the posts (16) to which it is connected by the cam follower (38) at the end of the cam (40) and by a pin (50) between the railing (32) and a sleeve (34) supporting the cam (40), the two posts to which the railing is connected and the modules are held in the unfolded position.

11. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of claims 4 to 10, wherein, in the unfolded position of the modules (12), a plurality of pins (50), preferably four pins, lock the joint (18) in the length of at least two posts (16) and the handrail (32) with respect to the two posts to which it is connected.

12. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the modules (12) comprise a ladder (56) with a joint (58) in its length, the ladder is rotationally movable about a post between a position of use of the ladder (56) in the unfolded position of the respective module (12), the ladder being in a plane orthogonal to the axes of the joints of the posts and a position permitting the folding of the module (12).

13. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, each module further comprising at least one end safety railing (68), mounted to rotate around a post (16) and optionally removable.

14. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a vertical traction frame (13) for the tower at the top of the upper module.

15. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the floors (14) are with at least one access hatch.

16. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising connecting lugs (80) between two modules (12) in folded position or between two adjacent modules in unfolded position of towers positioned side by side, the connecting lugs (80) optionally comprising an indentation (81) adapting to the gap between the modules.

17. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising telescopic extension rods (84) movable between a retracted position in the floor (14) and a position extracted from the floor, a floor extension (86) being fixed to the rods (84) in the extracted position.

18. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising removable or permanently attached triangulation cables (90) on the modules.

19. The scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lowest module comprises jacks (92) with a flat base or flanges.

20. Use of a scaffolding tower (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, as a temporary structure for construction sites, as a temporary structure for events such as quick stands, private bleachers or bleacher supports for a show, sporting event or attractions, as a temporary construction for observation or measurement, as a temporary support such as for an antenna, sensors, lighting, sound equipment, electrical cables or advertising, as a temporary construction for crossing a road, as an elevated workstation in industry, as temporary shelving or racking for shops or warehouses, as a tree or access tower or shoring tower, as a complement to or in association with one or more bays of conventional scaffolding.

21. A scaffold (9) comprising a plurality of scaffold towers (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 19, the towers being juxtaposed to one another.

22. The scaffolding (9) according to claim 21, in which junctions (94) are positioned between two adjacent modules (12) separated by a space or an angle.

23. Use of a scaffold (9) according to claim 21 or 22, as a temporary structure for construction sites, as a temporary structure for events such as quick stands, private bleachers or bleacher support for a show, sporting event or attractions, as a temporary structure for observation or measurement, as a temporary support such as for an antenna, sensors, lighting, sound equipment, electrical cables or advertising, as a temporary structure for crossing a roadway, as an elevated work platform in industry, as temporary shelving or racking for shops or warehouses, as a supplement to or in association with one or more conventional scaffold bays.

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