Folding rolling scaffold equipped with loading wheels for use in a vehicle

Abstract

Rolling scaffold (1), the components of which are movable 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 at least one loading wheel (50, 51) for transporting the scaffold in its compact position in a vehicle, the loading wheel being manually movable between a fixed retracted position and a fixed extended position, the fixed extended position allowing the scaffold (1) to be moved by rolling on the loading wheel. Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Folding rolling scaffold equipped with loading wheels for use in a vehicle

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of access devices at height, in particular scaffolding.

[0002] Scaffolding is here defined as temporary structures facilitating access to works and the execution of work.

[0003] A scaffold is generally provided with two ladders comprising uprights, vertical in relation to a plan for laying the scaffold, and horizontal rungs connecting the uprights, these ladders being opposite each other and kept apart from each other by platforms, bases or diagonals.

[0004] The platforms, bases and diagonals include ends which come into contact with the bars and / or with the uprights, in a horizontal plane in the case of the platforms or bases, and in an oblique plane in the case of the diagonals.

[0005] Scaffolding is essential work equipment for working at height, particularly in the building and public works sector. By providing access to heights, it allows users to carry out work on facades, ceilings, frameworks, or roofs, for example.

[0006] In France, the labor code (Articles R. 4323-58 to R. 4323-61) specifies that temporary work at height must be carried out from a workstation designed, installed, or equipped in such a way as to guarantee worker safety. Furthermore, the workstation must be protected by guardrails, limiting the risk of falls. Thus, each open side of the scaffolding must include at least two rails arranged one above the other, as well as a toe board beneath the two rails, to form a fall protection system when the operator is positioned on the platform.

[0007] In the prior art of scaffolding, the assembly of all elements located at a higher level from a secure work station located at a lower level is designated by the expression "Safe Assembly and Dismantling" (SAD).

[0008] In prior art scaffolding, the assembly of elements, in particular guardrails, is thus preferably carried out from a level lower than the level of the floor element protected by said guardrail.

[0009] The invention relates in particular to rolling scaffolds.

[0010] The term "rolling scaffold" 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.

[0011] 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.

[0012] Rolling scaffolds are used in particular for work of modest scale and relatively short duration, on facades or vertical walls, or for work on ceilings not requiring permanent access to the entire work area.

[0013] Two types of rolling scaffolds are commercially available.

[0014] 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.

[0015] 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.

[0016] The invention advantageously relates to rolling scaffolds of the second type, but can also be implemented for rolling scaffolds of the first type.

[0017] Some provisions provided for by the standards for mobile scaffolding are presented below.

[0018] Mobile scaffolds are equipped with four swivel or caster wheels and include at least one working platform from which the user will perform work at height. Mobile scaffolds may include intermediate platforms located below the working platform. The minimum width and maximum length of a platform must be 0.6 m and 1 m respectively, according to standard EN 1004-1. The platforms must include at least one access opening, called a hatch, with a minimum width of 0.4 m and a minimum length of 0.6 m.

[0019] 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 less than 1 m vertically from the upper surface of the floor it protects. The intermediate rail is fixed between the handrail and the baseboard.

[0020] 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.

[0021] Work on a floor is only permitted with the presence of a complete workstation, including a complete guardrail, incorporating handrails, intermediate rails and baseboards.

[0022] 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.

[0023] Rolling scaffolds can be equipped with stabilizers, allowing the ground footprint to be increased, the base of these stabilizers generally comprising an elastomer pad.

[0024] 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.

[0025] The dismantling, dismantling, and use of mobile scaffolding, particularly that subject to standard NF EN 1004-1, requires 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.

[0026] Various designs have been proposed in the prior art for the assembly and dismantling of high-rise rolling scaffolds.

[0027] 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), and DE 102012019902 (Hymer, 2014).

[0028] According to a second type of design, the rolling scaffolds are equipped 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 rolling scaffolds of this type, under the brand Teletower®, with a working height of 2.3 m to 4 m.

[0029] According to a third type of design, the rolling 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), GB2544623 (Ability, 2017). Such scaffolds are marketed by Tubesca under the brand names X'Tower and Z'Tower®.

[0030] The invention relates in particular to rolling scaffolds whose components are mobile between a compact position and at least one extended position, the compact position being a transport or storage position for the scaffold, and the extended position being a position for use of the scaffold. Such scaffolds are called folding rolling scaffolds.

[0031] Such scaffolding is transported in a compact position to the construction site, the transport being carried out using a utility vehicle such as a van or a pickup truck.

[0032] During this transport, a technical issue is the vehicle's ground clearance, that is, the distance between the lower part of the vehicle and the ground. It is common for this ground clearance when unladen to be greater than 20 cm, or even greater than 30 cm. High ground clearance is indeed desirable to allow commercial vehicles to travel on difficult terrain, for example, muddy ground.

[0033] High ground clearance results in the vehicle floor being positioned at a high height relative to the ground. Loading mobile scaffolding into the utility vehicle is therefore very laborious, especially since this mobile scaffolding can be quite heavy, weighing on the order of 60 kg to 90 kg for a folding mobile scaffold.

[0034] To overcome the difficulties of loading a van or truck, it is known to fix a tailgate or a loading platform to the rear of the utility vehicle, this platform being removable or folding, and being operated for example by means of a gas spring or a hydraulic cylinder.

[0035] Reference can be made for example to documents FR3147158 (PSA, 2024) FR3136705 (PSA, 2023), WO2023283729 (Multimatic, 2023), FR3119808 (DSP, 2022), EP0890474 (Baraldi, 1999).

[0036] Installing such a platform presents several drawbacks. In particular, when the tailgate, platform, or loading ramp is folded behind the rear or side doors of the vehicle, these doors cannot be operated without first unfolding the platform. The utility vehicle is thus rendered impractical, and poorly suited to frequent needs for accessing the interior of the vehicle.

[0037] To overcome the difficulties of loading a van or truck, it is known to use lifting means, such as a lifting table, for example equipped with a scissor mechanism.

[0038] Reference can be made for example to documents FR2971220 (Peugeot, 2012), US2008128215 (Nowitz, 2008).

[0039] These handling accessories have many disadvantages. In particular, they are bulky, heavy and expensive.

[0040] To facilitate the loading of scaffolding into a vehicle, a kit consisting of a set of parts has been proposed, to be attached in a removable and temporary manner to the scaffolding.

[0041] Tubesca-Comabi markets such a kit under the name "Embarq," as an option, to facilitate the storage of rolling scaffolds marketed under the names "X'Tower" or "Z'Tower." The "Embarq" kit is attached removably using two clamps to the folded structure of the rolling scaffold, after which a strap is put in place.

[0042] When using an "Embarq" kit, the user must bring the rolling scaffold into contact with the rear edge of the utility vehicle's floor, then lift the scaffold so that both wheels of the kit are in contact with the vehicle's floor. The user may make a mistake when assembling the kit, for example, due to a lapse in attention after a long day's work, with the resulting risks when loading the scaffold into the vehicle.

[0043] The implementation of scaffolding boarding kits presents other disadvantages.

[0044] Firstly, the user may forget to bring a kit when moving the scaffolding from one construction site to another.

[0045] Secondly, the kit may be lost or stolen during the period of use of the scaffolding on the construction site, and may no longer be available when the scaffolding needs to be moved to a new construction site.

[0046] Thirdly, the kit may be damaged during its temporary storage on the construction site, for example by falling material or movement of a motorized vehicle.

[0047] Furthermore, the kit is expensive and sold as an option, so the user may be tempted not to purchase this optional equipment. The user may also be tempted to buy only one kit when ordering several mobile scaffolds, in which case the user would have to plan for the transport of this kit each time one of their scaffolds is moved.

[0048] The strap has a limited lifespan, and its wear increases the risk of accidental detachment from the kit.

[0049] The kit must be detached from the scaffolding before unfolding and using the scaffolding, and the kit then forms a bulky detachable part.

[0050] The invention aims to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art by providing a scaffold, preferably of the folding rolling type, which can be easily and safely loaded into a utility vehicle.

[0051] For these purposes, it is proposed, according to a first aspect, a scaffold, preferably 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, the scaffold comprising at least one loading wheel for transporting the scaffold in compact position in a vehicle, the loading wheel being mounted to move manually between a fixed retracted position and a fixed extended position, the fixed extended position allowing the movement of the scaffold by rolling on the loading wheel.

[0052] Unlike kits offered in the prior art, the loading wheel is integrated, incorporated, or included within the scaffolding structure. While it is possible to disassemble this wheel, for example, for replacement after wear, the wheel is not an easily detachable part and is therefore not removable, a removable part being one designed to be easily taken off or detached. The numerous drawbacks of kits are thus avoided.

[0053] By manually moving, we mean here that the wheel moves from a retracted position to an extended position by an action performed by hand, this action being a maneuver on the wheel itself, or a manual control of an actuator, ensuring the movement of the wheel, this actuator being for example pneumatic or hydraulic.

[0054] By fixed position, we mean here that a retracted position and an extended position are stable, imposed positions. The scaffold can thus be moved by rolling on the wheel placed in the fixed extended position.

[0055] In the fixed retracted position, the wheel advantageously does not hinder movements around the scaffolding, whether the scaffolding is in a compact or deployed position.

[0056] Advantageously, the elements of the scaffolding are, in the compact position of the scaffolding, contained within a parallelepiped-shaped envelope, the scaffolding comprising two loading wheels, each movable between a fixed retracted position, in which the wheel is retracted into the volume of the envelope. parallelepiped, and a fixed exit position, in which the wheel protrudes beyond the envelope.

[0057] By retracted, we mean here that the wheel is at least partially, and preferably entirely, placed in a retracted position within the volume delimited by the parallelepiped enclosure. The wheel is then hidden, concealed. To draw the user's attention to the presence of the wheel, the wheel support is advantageously a different color from the other elements of the scaffolding, for example, a bright, eye-catching color.

[0058] In the compact position for transport by rolling on the construction site, or for storage of the scaffolding, the wheels are retracted and do not pose any obstruction to people. The wheels do not protrude and could not damage the walls when the scaffolding is being rolled. A protective cover can easily be placed over the scaffolding for long-term storage, as the wheels are housed within the volume defined by the cover and do not interfere with its installation or removal.

[0059] Advantageously, the scaffold includes two loading wheels, each mounted movable between a fixed retracted position and at least one position among two extreme fixed extended positions.

[0060] It is therefore possible to define two contact positions of the scaffolding with the floor of a utility vehicle, to take into account the existence of vehicles with low ground clearance (for example light utility vehicles called vans or pickup trucks, type L1H1, L2H1), and vehicles with high ground clearance (for example pickup trucks called "pick-up").

[0061] In certain embodiments, the loading wheels are each attached to a sleeve mounted pivotally on a tube of the scaffolding structure.

[0062] Advantageously, the scaffolding comprises two ladders movable relative to each other by means of an articulation mechanism, at least one pivoting sleeve support tube being disposed in the articulation mechanism.

[0063] Advantageously, means ensure for each of the wheels the maintenance of the sleeve in a predefined position relative to the support tube, the actuation of these means towards their locking position being automatic during the manual pivoting of the sleeves, the actuation of these means towards their unlocking position being manual.

[0064] In some implementations, the means for maintaining an angular position of a sleeve on a support tube include a pin passing through the sleeve and the support tube.

[0065] In other embodiments, the means for maintaining the angular position of a sleeve on a support tube include a spring carrying a pin, the spring being fixed and pressed against the inner wall of the support tube, and intended to pass through at least one hole made on the sleeve.

[0066] In certain embodiments, the articulation mechanism comprises two mounted elements pivoting relative to each other, between a folded position in which the two elements are parallel and facing each other, and a deployed position in which the two elements extend in the same plane, a wheel support tube connecting each ladder to an element of the articulation mechanism, the articulation mechanism being in the folded position when the scaffold is in the compact position, the articulation mechanism being in the deployed position when the scaffold is in the use position.

[0067] Advantageously, in the compact transport position of the scaffold, each loading wheel is retractable into a fixed retracted position, in a space delimited by an element of the articulation mechanism and a ladder element.

[0068] Advantageously, in the scaffolding's operating position, each loading wheel can be retracted into a fixed retracted position, within a space delimited by the articulation mechanism and a ladder element.

[0069] 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:

[0070] [Fig-1] is a perspective view of a rolling scaffold in a deployed position of use;

[0071] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of an articulation mechanism of a scaffold as shown in [Fig.1], with two loading wheels mounted on the articulation mechanism;

[0072] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of a scaffold of the type shown in [Fig.1], the scaffold being equipped with two loading wheels of the type shown in [Fig.2], the scaffold being in a compact folded position;

[0073] [Fig.4] is a detail view of [Fig.3];

[0074] [Fig.5] is a side view of the scaffolding shown in [Fig.3].

[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 scale 2, 3 advantageously comprises at least one second element 13, 14.

[0088] In one embodiment, the second element 13, 14 is mounted pivotally relative to the lower element 10, 11, between a folded position and a deployed position, the pivoting stroke of the second element 13, 14 relative to the first lower element 10, 11 being substantially 180°.

[0089] In the deployed position, the second ladder element 13, 14 is arranged in alignment with the lower element 10, 11. 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.

[0090] In other, unrepresented, embodiments, the second element is telescopically mounted on the first element, or is fitted onto the first element.

[0091] In an implementation, not shown, the deployed position of the second ladder elements 13, 14 defines, determines, the maximum height of ladders 2, 3.

[0092] In the embodiment shown in [Fig. 1], each of the second ladder elements 13, 14 is attached to a third element 15, 16.

[0093] The third element 15, 15 is advantageously mounted pivotally between a folded position and a deployed position.

[0094] In other implementations, the third element is telescopically mounted on the second element, or is fitted onto the second element.

[0095] In other, unrepresented, implementations, each third element is fixed to a fourth element, for example mounted pivotally relative to the third element, between a folded position and a deployed position.

[0096] It is understood that, above the first lower element 10, the maximum height of the ladder 2 is fixed by the dimension of each element 13, 15 and by the number of 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 element 14, 16 and by the number of elements.

[0097] Advantageously, each element is pivoting and of reduced height, for example on the order of 700 mm. The unfolding of the scaffolding is thus carried out with a reduced movement.

[0098] 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.

[0099] Advantageously, the elements 13, 15 of ladder 2 are of similar structures to the lower element 10, and the same is true of the elements 14, 16 of ladder 3 which are similar to the lower element 11.

[0100] Advantageously, scales 2, 3 are of similar structure.

[0101] 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.

[0102] 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.

[0103] 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.

[0104] In other embodiments, the assembly of the rungs and stringers is carried out by interlocking.

[0105] Advantageously, the assembly of the rungs and stringers is carried out by expansion or crimping, the ladder elements being metallic and tubular, in particular a light alloy such as aluminium alloy.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] In the embodiments shown, the stringers of the ladder elements are in the form of tubes or profiles with a round section.

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

[0111] In other embodiments, the stringers of the ladder elements are in the form of tubes or profiles with a quadrilateral cross-section.

[0112] 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.

[0113] The risks of injury to the user's hands, gripping the stringers when climbing the ladder, are thus reduced.

[0114] 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.

[0115] 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.

[0116] Floor 24 is advantageously slip-resistant and is for example embossed, ribbed, or perforated.

[0117] The floor 24 can be made of metal, in particular aluminum alloy or steel, or of composite material, for example polymer matrix and glass fiber reinforcement.

[0118] 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.

[0119] 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.

[0120] 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 to the front and rear and to both lateral sides of workstation 20.

[0121] 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.

[0122] The height of the plinth 23 is advantageously ten centimeters or more than ten centimeters.

[0123] In some implementations, the floor and the skirting board were made from material, for example from injection molding.

[0124] 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.

[0125] The width of the floor 24 is for example at least sixty centimeters, and its length at least one meter.

[0126] In some embodiments, the top rail and the intermediate rail are formed of articulated tubes, in particular of aluminium alloy or steel.

[0127] 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.

[0128] 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.

[0129] A first safety measure, at the height of the user's feet, is provided by the plinth 23.

[0130] A second safety feature, at the user's leg height, is provided by the intermediate rail 22 of the guardrail.

[0131] A third safety feature, at the height of the user's pelvis, is provided by the upper rail or handrail 21 of the guardrail.

[0132] 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°.

[0133] 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.

[0134] 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.

[0135] The stabilizers or stabilizing feet define a support polygon for the scaffold 1.

[0136] The scaffolding 1 is provided with diagonals 40, 41, 42, 43.

[0137] The unfolding of the scaffolding shown in [Fig.1] can be carried out as follows.

[0138] In a first unfolding step, 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 their maximum separation, by unfolding the articulation mechanism 4.

[0139] In a second unfolding step, the two side guardrail elements are pivoted approximately 180° to a substantially vertical position. Advantageously, the movement of the side guardrail elements takes place between the two ladders 2, 3.

[0140] In a third unfolding step, the front and rear handrail elements 21 and the front and rear intermediate rail elements 22 are deployed between the side guardrail elements.

[0141] In a fourth unfolding step, the floor 24 is put in place at a first working height.

[0142] In a fifth unfolding step, the second ladder elements 13, 14 are pivoted into their unfolded position of alignment with the lower elements 10, 11. The third ladder elements 15, 16 are in a folded position, substantially parallel to the second ladder elements 13, 14.

[0143] In subsequent steps, the platform 24 is raised from 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. Advantageously, the diagonals 40, 41 are integrated into the platform, and are thus captive.

[0144] During the manual raising movement of the floor, advantageously, a floor support is mounted sliding along the height of the elements 10, 13 of ladder 2, and of the elements 11, 14 of ladder 3.

[0145] In a subsequent step, the third elements 15, 16 of the ladder are rotated with respect to the second elements 13, 14, so as to come into alignment with these second elements 13, 14.

[0146] In subsequent steps, the floor is raised from one side and then the other of the scaffolding 1, until the workstation 20 is brought to a third height, and two diagonals 42, 43 and the stabilizers 30 are put in place. The plinth elements are then pivoted into a horizontal position, leading to the final state shown in [Fig. 1].

[0147] 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.

[0148] Advantageously, the locking means are automatic locking means.

[0149] 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.

[0150] 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.

[0151] Advantageously, each diagonal is formed of two articulated elements, allowing them to be stored in a compact position when the scaffold 1 is in its folded, storage or transport state, represented in [Fig.3].

[0152] For guidance purposes, the dimensions of the scaffolding, in its compact folded position shown in [Fig.3], are as follows: height 1200 mm, width 800 mm, thickness 700 mm.

[0153] 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.

[0154] 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.

[0155] In the compact state of storage, transport or arrangement shown in [Fig.3], the floor 24 of the scaffold 1 is arranged on one lateral side.

[0156] Floor 24 includes an access hatch, in a manner known per se.

[0157] The floor is advantageously the only detachable part of the entire folding rolling scaffold, the other parts of the scaffold 1 forming a whole.

[0158] As shown in [Fig. 3], the scaffold 1, in its folded compact position, is inscribed within a parallelepiped envelope. In other words, four vertical planes and one horizontal plane can be defined in [Fig. 3], forming with the ground an envelope in which the folded scaffold 1 is entirely placed, coming into contact with the vertical and horizontal planes of the envelope.

[0159] No element of the scaffold 1 protrudes on one side or on the top, when the scaffold 1 is in its compact storage or transport position, shown in [Fig.3].

[0160] The risks of injury to persons during the transport of the scaffolding 1 are thus reduced.

[0161] The risks of scratches, nicks, or scrapes to walls or door frames are also reduced when rolling the scaffold 1 on its four wheels 12.

[0162] The scaffolding 1 can also be placed in a protective cover, if necessary, for example a tarpaulin made of coated fabric, in particular polyester fabric coated with polyurethane. The cover covers the scaffolding, preferably in a waterproof manner, protecting it from dust and moisture.

[0163] As an indication, for a folding rolling scaffold 1 of the type shown in figures 1 and 2, offering a working height of 4.8 m, the weight of the platform 24 is around 12 kg, the other parts of the scaffold 1 forming a whole weighing approximately 52 kg.

[0164] The loading wheels 50, 51 integrated into the structure of the scaffolding 1 are now described in more detail.

[0165] In the embodiment shown, each wheel 50, 51 is mounted on an element of the articulation mechanism 4.

[0166] Each wheel 50, 51 comprises a hub 52 and a tread 53, the hub 52 being mounted on an axle 54 carried by two flanges 55, 56.

[0167] The axle 54 is advantageously formed by an axle with a threaded end carrying a nut 57, allowing the wheel 50, 51 to be removed, for example for replacement after wear.

[0168] In some embodiments, the tread 53 is made of polyurethane, advantageously of polyurethane elastomer, the hub 52 being made of metal alloy, for example steel, or of polymer material, for example polyamide.

[0169] In certain particular implementations, the tread 53 is made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU).

[0170] The tread 53 is for example molded onto the hub 52. Such designs allow for low rolling resistance, high resistance to wear and cuts.

[0171] Advantageously, a bearing, for example a ball or needle bearing, is placed between the hub 52 and the shaft 54.

[0172] The two flanges 55, 56 form a support for the axis 54 of rotation of the wheel 50, 51 and these two flanges form a mounted assembly pivoting between at least two fixed extreme positions of the loading wheels 50, 51.

[0173] A first fixed, retracted, extreme storage position is shown in [Fig. 3] for one of the two wheels 51. In this first position, the wheel 51 does not protrude from the vertical plane of the enclosure in which the scaffolding 1 is situated. In other words, the wheel 51 does not protrude, nor extend laterally beyond, this vertical plane. The wheel 51 is then retracted between the folded elements of the scaffolding.

[0174] A second fixed extreme position, out of use of the loading wheels 50, 51, is shown in [Fig.3] for one of the two wheels 50. In this second position, the wheel 50 extends beyond a vertical lateral plane of the envelope in which the scaffolding 1 is inscribed. In other words, the wheel 50 protrudes, goes beyond, extends beyond this vertical plane.

[0175] When the two wheels 50, 51 are in their second fixed extreme position, out, the scaffold 1 can be moved by rolling on the two wheels 50, 51.

[0176] In the embodiment shown, the rotation axes 54 of the two loading wheels 50, 51 are aligned.

[0177] The axis of rotation of the loading wheels is advantageously positioned substantially directly above the center of gravity of the scaffold 1 supported by the loading wheels. This arrangement makes the tilting movements of the scaffold during loading into a vehicle or unloading from a vehicle smooth and comfortable for the user.

[0178] When a user wishes to load the scaffold 1 into a utility vehicle, the wheels 50, 51 are brought into contact with the floor of the vehicle by manually tilting the scaffold 1. When the wheels 50, 51 are in contact with the floor of the vehicle, the user can then exert a horizontal push on the scaffold 1, for rolling movement on this floor of the vehicle.

[0179] In some embodiments, a stop member is placed on the lateral side of the scaffolding carrying the loading wheels 50, 51.

[0180] This stop element advantageously comprises a damping material, for example made of rubber, in particular polyurethane elastomer.

[0181] The advantages of the presence of this stop element are as follows.

[0182] In a first loading step, the user brought the scaffold 1 (in compact configuration) close to the rear of a vehicle. The stop member then came into contact with the free rear edge of the vehicle, the scaffold still resting in a vertical position, or already being manually inclined from the vertical.

[0183] In a second loading stage, the user tilts the scaffold, or continues to tilt the scaffold, so as to bring the loading wheels into contact with the floor of the vehicle, the stop member forming a support area during this pivoting.

[0184] The risks of the scaffold slipping relative to the rear edge of the vehicle floor are thus eliminated.

[0185] By the support of the stop member, part of the weight of the scaffold is supported by the floor of the vehicle, reducing the user's efforts during the pivoting movement of the scaffold.

[0186] In a third loading stage, after contact of the wheels 50, 51 on the floor of the vehicle, the user exerts a substantially horizontal push on the scaffold, to make it enter completely into the vehicle.

[0187] The presence of the stop element also facilitates the unloading of the scaffolding.

[0188] The user advantageously brings the stop member into contact with the rear free edge of the vehicle floor, before tilting the scaffold from its horizontal rolling position on wheels 50, 51 to its vertical position resting on wheels 12.

[0189] The presence of the stop element, preferably made of a shock-absorbing material such as rubber, also helps to prevent the metal elements of the scaffolding from hitting the rear edge of the vehicle floor.

[0190] Advantageously, each wheel 50, 51 can be brought in addition to one extreme fixed position out, for example two extreme fixed positions out, as shown in [Fig.5].

[0191] It is thus possible to define two distances between the ground and the tread 53, allowing loading into two types of utility vehicle, a first type of utility vehicle being for example with a low floor (for example with a ground clearance of 20 cm), a second type of utility vehicle being for example with a high floor (for example with a ground clearance of 30 cm).

[0192] A first gap between the ground and the tread 53 is for example 465 mm, the second gap being 585 mm, as mentioned by way of example in [Fig.5].

[0193] In the embodiments shown, the two flanges 56, 56 are integral with a cylindrical sleeve 60, pivotally mounted on a tube 61 of the articulation mechanism 4.

[0194] In one embodiment, the retention of the wheels 50, 51 in their fixed extreme positions retracted and extended is ensured by a safety pin passing through two holes in the sleeve 60 and two holes in the tube 61. The pin thus passes through the assembly formed by the sleeve 60 and the tube 61, along a diameter of this assembly.

[0195] The pin includes, for example, a metal pin, in the form of a cylindrical metal piece passing through the assembly formed by the sleeve 60 and the tube 61, and a retaining arch.

[0196] The pin may alternatively be a beta pin, for example in zinc-plated steel or stainless steel.

[0197] In other embodiments, the retention of the wheels 50, 51 in their fixed extreme positions retracted and extended is ensured by a pin and spring type mechanism, mounted inside the tube 61.

[0198] A steel blade, advantageously made of spring steel, is pressed and fixed against the inner wall of the tube 61. This steel blade is provided with a pin 62, designed to pass through an opening 63 in the sleeve 60. The steel blade exerts a permanent thrust on the pin 62, in a radial direction to the tube 61. During manual rotation of the assembly formed by the flanges 55, 56 and the sleeve 60, an opening 63 in the sleeve 60 comes into view of the pin 62. The passage of the pin 62 through the opening 63 locks the position of the sleeve 60, and therefore the position of the loading wheel 50, 51.

[0199] This locking is advantageously accompanied by a metallic noise, signaling to the user that the desired position has been reached.

[0200] In one embodiment, the sleeve 60 is provided with four equidistant openings 63, the sleeve 60 thus being able to be arranged in four angular positions, relative to the tube 61.

[0201] Two angular positions define two possible fixed retracted positions for wheels 50, 51.

[0202] The two other angular positions of the sleeve 60 define the two possible fixed output positions for the wheels 50, 51, as shown schematically in [Fig.5].

[0203] In the deployed position of the scaffold 1, the wheels 50, 51 are advantageously pivoted into a fixed retracted position, as shown in [Fig.2], these wheels 50, 51 not protruding beyond the vertical plane formed by the articulation mechanism 4. A person moving around the scaffold 1 will thus not be hindered and will not hit the wheels 50, 51.

[0204] The articulation mechanism 4 comprises two elements 5, 6 mounted pivotally about vertical axes.

[0205] When the scaffold 1 is in a compact position as shown in [Fig.3], the two elements 5, 6 of the articulation mechanism 4 are folded against each other, and each wheel 50, 51 can be placed manually in a fixed retracted position, by a movement in the space delimited by a first ladder element 10, 11 and an element 5, 6 of the articulation mechanism 4.

[0206] When the scaffold 1 is in the operating position as shown in [Fig. 2], the two elements 5, 6 of the articulation mechanism 4 are positioned in the same vertical plane, and the two ladders 2, 3 are separated by a maximum distance. Locking means ensure that the articulation mechanism 4 is held in the deployed position. Each wheel 50, 51 can be manually placed in the retracted fixed position by pivoting it in a substantially vertical plane. [Fig. 2] shows a load wheel 50 in the retracted fixed position and a load wheel 51 in the extended fixed position.

[0207] The wheels 50, 51 in the fixed extended position are advantageously placed in the space delimited by the ladders 2, 3 and the articulation mechanism 4. The risks of collision with the legs of people moving around the scaffolding are thus eliminated.

[0208] In the embodiments shown, two loading wheels 50, 51 are mounted on one side of the scaffold 1, these two wheels being non-removable and non-detachable from the scaffold structure. The wheels 50, 51 are mounted at the base of the scaffold, on tubes 61 of the articulation mechanism 4.

[0209] In other embodiments, not shown, two loading wheels are mounted on a rung of at least one of the two ladders.

[0210] In other, unrepresented embodiments, a single wheel is mounted on a lateral side of the scaffolding, this wheel preferably comprising a wide tread.

[0211] In other, unrepresented embodiments, more than two wheels are mounted on one side of the scaffold, with the axes of rotation of these wheels aligned.

[0212] In other, unrepresented embodiments, at least two loading wheels are mounted on one side of the scaffold, with the axes of rotation of the two wheels being parallel and not aligned. This arrangement allows for two possible distances between the ground and the tread of the loading wheels, to accommodate different floor heights of a utility vehicle, such as a pickup truck or van.

[0213] In other, unrepresented embodiments, at least one wheel is mounted on a first lateral side of the scaffold, and at least one other wheel is mounted on a second lateral side of the scaffold, the two sides being, for example, opposite. Such an arrangement allows the scaffold to pivot and tilt in two possible movements during loading into a utility vehicle.

[0214] In certain embodiments, the wheels 50, 51 are suspended, for example with steel or polyurethane springs, particularly polyurethane elastomer. Steel springs provide suspension, reducing shocks and impacts. Polyurethane springs provide damping.

[0215] Although the loading wheels have been described with reference to a rolling scaffold with folding ladders, it is understood that such wheels can be mounted on a rolling scaffold with telescopic ladders, or assembled by interlocking.

[0216] The invention has many advantages.

[0217] The scaffolding can be easily transported in a compact position to the construction site using a utility vehicle such as a van or pickup truck, including with high ground clearance, allowing utility vehicles to travel on difficult roads, for example muddy ground.

[0218] The loading wheels preferably offer two fixed extreme positions extended, allowing adaptation to different vehicle floor heights in which the scaffolding is to be loaded / unloaded.

[0219] The loading wheels are integrated into the structure of the scaffolding, and their operation is carried out manually, without tools, so the user does not have to think about equipping themselves with accessories for loading and unloading the scaffolding.

[0220] Because the loading wheels are retractable between the scaffolding elements in the compact position, the risk of damage to the wheels during transport or storage of the scaffolding is avoided. The scaffolding can be easily placed in a protective cover.

[0221] Since the loading wheels are retractable, behind the elements of the scaffolding in the deployed position, for example behind the articulation mechanism, the risks of damage to the wheels during work on the construction site and the risks of injury or falls of people hitting the wheels are avoided.

[0222] The presence of the loading wheels does not change the overall size of the scaffold in the compact storage or rolling position, the wheels being advantageously retractable.

Claims

Demands

1. 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 at least one loading wheel (50, 51) for transporting the scaffold (1) in a compact position in a vehicle, characterized in that the loading wheel (50, 51) is manually mounted to move between a fixed retracted position and a fixed extended position, the fixed extended position allowing the rolling movement of the scaffold (1) on the loading wheel.

2. Rolling scaffold (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the elements of the scaffold are, in the compact position of the scaffold (1), inscribed in a parallelepiped envelope, the scaffold (1) comprising two loading wheels (50, 51) each mounted movably between a fixed retracted position, in which the wheel (50, 51) is retracted into the volume of the parallelepiped envelope, and a fixed extended position, in which the wheel (50, 51) protrudes beyond the envelope.

3. Rolling scaffold (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises two loading wheels (50, 51) each mounted movable between a fixed retracted position and at least one position among two extreme fixed extended positions.

4. Rolling scaffold (1) according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that the loading wheels (50, 51) are each integral with a sleeve (60) pivotally mounted on a tube (61) of the scaffold structure (1).

5. Rolling scaffold (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that it comprises two ladders (2, 3) movable relative to each other by means of an articulation mechanism (4), at least one pivoting sleeve (61) support tube (60) being disposed in the articulation mechanism (4).

6. Rolling scaffold (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that means ensure, for each of the wheels (50, 51), the maintenance of the sleeve (60) in a predefined position relative to the support tube (61), the actuating of these means towards their position locking being automatic during manual pivoting of the sleeves (60), the actuation of these means towards their unlocking position being manual.

7. Rolling scaffold (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the means for maintaining in angular position of a sleeve (60) on a support tube (61) comprise a pin passing through the sleeve (60) and the support tube (61).

8. Rolling scaffold (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the means for maintaining in angular position of a sleeve (60) on a support tube (61) comprise a spring carrying a pin (62), the spring being fixed and pressed against the inner wall of the support tube (61), and being intended to pass through at least one hole (63) provided on the sleeve (60).

9. Rolling scaffold (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that the articulation mechanism (4) comprises two elements (5, 6) mounted pivotally relative to each other, between a folded position in which the two elements (5, 6) are parallel and facing each other, and an extended position in which the two elements (5, 6) extend in the same plane, a wheel support tube (61) connecting each ladder (2, 3) to an element of the articulation mechanism (4), the articulation mechanism (4) being in the folded position when the scaffold (1) is in the compact position, the articulation mechanism (4) being in the extended position when the scaffold (1) is in the use position.

10. Rolling scaffold (1) according to claim 9, characterized in that in the compact transport position of the scaffold, each loading wheel (50, 51) is retractable into a fixed retracted position, in a space delimited by an element (5, 6) of the articulation mechanism (4) and a ladder element (10, 11).

11. Rolling scaffold (1) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that in the use position of the scaffold, each loading wheel (50, 51) is retractable into a fixed retracted position, in a space delimited by the articulation mechanism (4) and a ladder element (10, 11).

Images