Retention arrangement, adjustable length strut and assembly thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a retaining device adapted for an adjustable-length strut having an axially extending inner elongated member having an external thread, an outer elongated member slidably disposed so that the inner elongated member slides axially, and a nut element rotatably disposed on the inner elongated member and having an internal thread configured to engage the external thread of the inner elongated member, the retaining device including at least one bracket configured to releasably couple the nut element to the outer elongated member to prevent the inner elongated member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member. Also provided are an adjustable-length strut adapted for such a retaining device, and a strut assembly including both the retaining device and the adjustable-length strut. Finally, the present disclosure provides methods of use and shoring.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a retaining device for an adjustable length strut and to said adjustable length strut. Furthermore, the invention relates to an assembly of such a retaining device with an adjustable length strut and to a method of using such an assembly. [Background technology]

[0002] A strut is a tool or assembly configured to temporarily support an unstable load, such as a vehicle, building, tree, or elevator. Struts typically consist of one or more elongated members configured to be axially extendable to change length. Struts function as spacers and can be used in many applications, particularly shoring. In this context, shoring is defined as providing temporary support for an unstable load. Shoring typically involves ensuring safety in hazardous situations and providing the safest possible temporary working environment for firefighters and other rescue personnel. The applications of such shoring are quite diverse, including trench support, supporting structures such as buildings against collapse, and stabilizing and lifting vehicles, especially after a collision.

[0003] Aside from the wide variety of applications for which struts are used, other factors can distinguish them. For example, struts can range in maximum length from 0.2 m to 5 m. Safety and rescue personnel are required to possess, manage, and transport a wide variety of struts and their components to rescue sites to adapt to any situation. While struts are extendable and can be selectively connected to accessories and each other, selecting multiple struts of different lengths requires significant space in safety and rescue personnel's vehicles. Furthermore, these components require strength and are therefore heavy. Due to space and weight considerations, only a select number of struts and strut components are often brought to the site, which can lead to suboptimal solutions when site conditions differ from those anticipated. Struts can be configured for spot shoring, raker structures, and other rescue operations, for example.

[0004] A strut can be defined as a tool that includes an outer tube and an inner tube slidably disposed within the outer tube, allowing the length of the strut to be set to span a certain space and support an unstable load. Thus, the strut is adjustable in length and can define an adjustable-length spacer. To maintain the spacing while supporting such loads, the strut typically further includes means for preventing the inner tube from sliding into the outer tube after the strut length has been set. Additionally, each end of the strut may be provided with couplings and / or attachments for engaging objects at either end, such as cargo at the top and the ground at the bottom.

[0005] Currently, various struts are commercially available. These can be classified as mechanical, electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic. Furthermore, the maximum and / or minimum strut length may vary, for example, depending on the intended application. For most practical applications, struts must fill a space between 0.2 m and 5 m, and therefore must be able to reach this length with the aid of auxiliary tubes that extend the strut beyond its maximum length. Rescue personnel, in particular, are required to operate effectively in a variety of situations, and therefore now often carry large numbers of struts, to which various auxiliary tubes and accessories are added. Such devices allow for a wide range of applications, from simple spot shores to elaborate raker structures. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] It is desirable to support unstable loads as quickly as possible on-site. This minimizes the time rescuers are exposed to dangerous situations such as structural collapse. Furthermore, support is typically deployed to protect people who need to be removed from dangerous locations as quickly as possible, such as victims of accidents or natural disasters. The sooner support is deployed, the sooner rescuers can begin rescue operations and free victims. In these situations, every second counts.

[0007] To save time, the most advanced struts currently on the market are designed with an outer tube that allows for length adjustment, and an inner tube that extends linearly from the inner tube, either manually or pneumatically. The inner tube has a thread (i.e., a screw thread) on the outside. A nut is located above the inner tube, and the nut can be manually moved along the thread (i.e., by turning or screwing) to abut the outer tube from which the inner tube extends, providing a mechanical lock. This locking mechanism withstands the large compressive forces experienced by the strut throughout its length, thereby preventing the inner tube from sliding inward, i.e., shortening the strut.

[0008] However, the struts in these structures cannot withstand tension along their length, meaning they cannot be prevented from elongating. In various strut applications, it is important to prevent strut elongation as well as shortening. In this regard, we present an example of a raker structure. A raker structure, consisting of struts and attachments, supports unstable walls and other vertical objects to prevent further collapse of the building. In such raker structures, the main load-bearing elements are diagonal struts, which can be up to 5 meters or longer. The load-bearing capacity of such long struts is primarily limited by the mechanical phenomenon of buckling. In raker structures and other applications, diagonal ribs, known as braces, are used to prevent buckling of the load-bearing struts. The braces must be able to withstand both compressive and tensile forces along their length. Existing struts cannot be used as braces because they cannot withstand tension.

[0009] The brace typically consists of an outer tube with an internal thread and an inner tube with an external thread configured to mate with the threads on the outer tube. Such braces can be set to the appropriate length by manually rotating or threading the entire inner tube onto the outer tube, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive, especially since rescue operations typically involve manual labor. Such struts cannot be deployed by remote pneumatic control.

[0010] Therefore, in the field of rescue operations, struts and braces have different functions, each performing complementary functions with their own limitations. For this reason, rescuers must have a variety of struts at their disposal to use with the set of struts described above, and keep them on board rescue vessels and trucks as standard equipment. Therefore, rescuers typically bring a variety of equipment with them to their next rescue operation, although much of this equipment may no longer be needed or useful in the field.

[0011] A further drawback of the current strut model described above is that even when the nut is tightened on the outer pipe, it can loosen or come off the outer pipe and rotate on the threads of the inner pipe. This can be caused by vibrations, such as aftershocks during post-earthquake rescue operations, or by the movement of unstable loads supported by the strut. Another cause of nut loosening is unintentional contact with the nut, for example, when rescuers use the strut for spot shoring. In such situations, struts may be used to access narrow spaces within collapsed or structurally unstable buildings, for example, to approach victims. Rescue workers often work in close proximity to these spot shoring struts, risking the unintentional loosening of the strut nut. If the nut loosens for any reason, it can release the strut's mechanical lock that prevents it from sliding inward on the inner pipe relative to the outer pipe, causing the strut to shorten, potentially losing its support function or causing it to fall through the space it must span. This poses a significant danger to rescuers and the victims they are attempting to rescue or rescue.

[0012] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to overcome or at least mitigate the disadvantages of existing adjustable length struts. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] This object is achieved by providing a holding device as defined in claim 1.

[0014] The retaining device couples the nut element of the adjustable-length strut to the outer elongated member of the adjustable-length strut, preventing the inner elongated member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member. When the retaining device is released, the strut length adjustment becomes possible again. The retaining device prevents the strut from stretching, allowing the strut to be used as a brace, for example, in a raker structure, eliminating the need for a brace and reducing the number of parts that rescue personnel need to bring to the scene.

[0015] The retaining device can be provided as a separate device or can be integrated with the adjustable strut. In either case, the present invention allows for the rapid conversion of an adjustable strut capable of withstanding axial compression forces into a brace capable of withstanding both axial compression and tension forces. Furthermore, when the retaining device couples the nut element to the outer elongated member of the adjustable strut, it prevents the nut from loosening due to, for example, impact or unintended contact, thereby preventing the loss of the strut's stabilizing function.

[0016] The present invention further provides an adjustable length strut as defined in claim 22. This strut is particularly adapted to be releasably coupled by a retaining device according to the invention. The retaining device and the adjustable length strut form two interrelated products.

[0017] The present invention further provides a strut assembly as defined in claim 34, said assembly including a retaining device arranged or positionable on an adjustable length strut according to the invention, said retaining device being provided separately from the adjustable length strut or being positionable on said adjustable length strut.

[0018] Preferred embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims and the following description.

[0019] The retaining device is adapted for an adjustable-length strut having an axially extending inner elongated member having an external thread, an outer elongated member slidably disposed so that the inner elongated member slides axially, and a nut element rotatably disposed on the inner elongated member and having an internal thread configured to engage with the external thread of the inner elongated member. The retaining device includes at least one bracket configured to releasably couple the nut element to the outer elongated member to prevent the inner elongated member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member. When such a retaining device couples the nut element to the outer elongated member, it can prevent the adjustable-length strut from expanding or elongating.

[0020] The terms "retention device" or "retention" may refer to locking or locking. The retention device may form a locking arrangement for locking the adjustable length strut, in particular for locking the extension of the strut.

[0021] The sliding of the inner elongated member relative to the outer elongated member is axial only, i.e., does not involve tangential or rotational movements that may loosen the inner elongated member through the nut. Axial sliding means that the adjustable length struts lengthen or shorten as the inner elongated member slides outward or inward, respectively, relative to the outer elongated member.

[0022] The nut element can take on a variety of shapes (e.g., flat or elongated axially relative to the radial direction). For example, the nut element can be provided in the form of a conventional nut suitable for that purpose, having internal threads corresponding to the external threads of the inner elongate member. The outer surface of the nut element can be configured to be engaged by a tool, such as a wrench, or a tool configured to cooperate with the outer surface of the nut element, preferably a multi-purpose rescue tool. As with a conventional nut, the internal threads of the nut element can be disposed on the inner surface of a through hole or bore that can axially extend through the nut element when attached to the inner elongate member of the strut.

[0023] In one embodiment, the at least one bracket is further configured to releasably couple the nut element and the outer elongated member to prevent the nut element from rotating on the inner elongated member. This prevents accidental loosening of the nut (e.g., due to impact, unintended contact, load transfer, etc.). Loosening of the nut can shorten the adjustable-length strut. The bracket effectively prevents not only the elongation of the strut but also the shortening.

[0024] In one embodiment, the retaining device is configured to prevent the inner elongated member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member in a retained state in which the at least one bracket is coupled to the nut element and the outer elongated member, and to allow the inner elongated member to slide outward relative to the outer elongated member in a released state in which the at least one bracket is not coupled (e.g., released) to at least one of the nut element and the outer elongated member. In the retained state, the nut element contacts the outer elongated member, for example, abutting a rim surrounding an opening in the outer elongated member through which the inner elongated member is slidably disposed.

[0025] In the released state, at least one bracket may still be coupled to the nut element or the outer elongated member, particularly in embodiments in which a retaining device is disposed on one of the nut element and the outer elongated member and is releasably coupled to the other of the nut element and the outer elongated member.

[0026] Additionally or alternatively, the retaining device may be configured to prevent rotation of the nut element on the inner elongate member in the retained state. As a further additional or alternative feature, the retaining device may be configured to allow rotation of the nut element on the inner elongate member in the released state.

[0027] In one embodiment, at least one bracket includes an inner surface configured to engage an outer surface portion of the strut, the outer surface portion including at least a portion of the nut element and a portion of the outer elongated member. The mating and / or matching shape is sufficient to tighten the nut element against the outer elongated member. The inner surface of the bracket may include first and / or second internal coupling elements, as described below.

[0028] In one embodiment, the at least one bracket is configured to axially surround the nut element. In other words, the bracket can extend axially beyond the nut element. For example, the bracket may include a bridge portion that extends axially between a first axial end configured to engage the nut element and a second axial end configured to engage the outer elongated member when positioned on the strut.

[0029] In one embodiment, the at least one bracket includes a first inner coupling element configured to releasably engage with a first outer coupling element of the nut element.

[0030] In one embodiment, the first inner coupling element includes a protrusion or recess configured to releasably engage an associated recess or protrusion, respectively, included in the first outer coupling element.

[0031] The first internal coupling element may include a protrusion having an abutment surface configured to engage an edge and / or top surface of the nut element axially away from the outer elongated member. Thus, the at least one bracket may be configured to axially contain the nut and releasably engage the nut at an upper end or surface remote from the outer elongated member.

[0032] In one embodiment, the at least one bracket includes a second, inner coupling element configured to releasably engage a second, outer coupling element of the outer elongated member, preferably located at or near the end of the outer elongated member where the nut element is located when tightened onto the outer elongated member.

[0033] The second inner coupling element may include a protrusion or recess configured to releasably engage an associated recess or protrusion, respectively, included in the second outer coupling element.

[0034] The inner surface of the bracket may include a first internal joining element and / or a second internal joining element.

[0035] In one embodiment, at least one bracket includes a first internal coupling element disposed at a first axial end of the bracket configured to be releasably coupled to the nut element and / or a second internal coupling element disposed at a second axial end of the bracket configured to be releasably coupled to the outer elongated member.

[0036] If only one of the first or second internal coupling elements is provided, the bracket preferably couples to the outer elongated member or the nut element, respectively. The retaining device may therefore include said outer elongated member or said nut, or may actually be constituted by the length-adjustable strut. If both first and second internal coupling elements are provided, the bracket is provided separately from the length-adjustable strut (or its nut element and / or outer elongated member) and can be releasably positioned on these components.

[0037] In one embodiment, at least one bracket includes a band guide slot configured to guide a flexible band tangentially to the axial direction around the bracket to secure the at least one bracket to the strut. The flexible band may be provided with the bracket or may be retrofitted. The bracket may be coupled to the strut without the need for a band.

[0038] The band guide slot may include upper and / or lower rims extending tangentially and configured to guide the flexible band therebetween, such that the band is prevented from sliding out axially, particularly upwardly and / or downwardly, thereby potentially disengaging one or more brackets from the strut.

[0039] In one embodiment, the retaining device further includes a flexible band that releasably couples the at least one bracket to the nut element and / or the outer elongated member of the strut.

[0040] The flexible band may include a releasable band fastener, preferably a hook-and-loop fastener. Other examples of releasably coupling the flexible band include using cable ties, buttons, hook-and-eyes, releasable adhesive, and tying the ends of the flexible band. To minimize the time rescuers spend in a dangerous situation, it is preferable to create a releasable coupling that allows the flexible band to be quickly secured when applying the retention device and quickly released when removing the retention device.

[0041] In one embodiment, the at least one bracket comprises two brackets. In other words, the retention device may include more than two brackets, or may include only two brackets. The two brackets can be coupled to each other in a variety of ways, such as a pivot connection, a flexible band, a magnetic element, a snap lock, interlocking projections and recesses, and combinations thereof.

[0042] In one embodiment, the retention device further includes a pivot that connects the two brackets at a first tangential location, the tangential direction referring to a direction relative to an axial direction defined by the strut to which the retention device can be connected or to which it is connected.

[0043] In one embodiment, the retaining device further includes a closure device for releasably coupling the two brackets at the second tangent position, which may be implemented as a bolt with an associated nut, snap lock, magnetic element, or even formed by a flexible band.

[0044] In one embodiment, the at least one bracket includes one of a first inner coupling element and a second inner coupling element configured to releasably engage one of the nut element and the outer elongated member, respectively, and a pivot coupleable to the other of the nut element and the outer elongated member. When the retaining element is formed by a strut or a component thereof, in particular the nut element or the outer elongated member, the pivot can be not only coupleable but also coupled to the other of the nut element and the outer elongated member.

[0045] In one embodiment, at least one bracket includes a biasing lever pivotally coupleable to one of the nut element and the outer elongated member and releasably coupleable to the other of the nut element and the outer elongated member. Such lever is biased by a biasing means, such as a spring element, to engage one of the nut or the elongated member while pivotally coupled to the other of the nut or the elongated member. The biasing means or spring element may be a closure device.

[0046] The adjustable length strut of the present disclosure includes an axially extending inner elongate member having an external thread, an outer elongate member slidably disposed so that the inner elongate member slides axially, and a nut element rotatably disposed on the inner elongate member and having internal threads configured to engage the external threads of the inner elongate member, the nut element and the outer elongate member being configured to be releasably coupled by a retaining device according to the present disclosure, which prevents the inner elongate member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongate member.

[0047] It is anticipated that existing adjustable length struts will be adapted to releasably couple to the retention devices of the present disclosure. For example, an existing adjustable length strut may be provided with or retrofitted with an external coupling element, or its nut element may be replaced with a nut element having a retention device attached. Alternatively, the retention device may be provided on the outer elongate member.

[0048] The adjustable length struts can be configured to prevent inward sliding of the inner elongate member relative to the outer elongate member when the nut element is tightened onto the outer elongate member via the external threads of the inner elongate member.

[0049] In one embodiment, the nut element and the outer elongated member are configured to be releasably coupled by a retaining device that prevents the nut element from rotating on the inner elongated member.

[0050] In one embodiment, an outer surface portion of the strut, including at least a portion of the nut element and a portion of the outer elongated member, is shaped to engage an inner surface of the at least one bracket; and In one embodiment, the nut element is configured to be encompassed by the bracket along the axial direction.

[0051] In one embodiment, the nut element includes a first outer coupling element configured to releasably engage with a first inner coupling element of the at least one bracket.

[0052] The first outer coupling element may include a recess or protrusion configured to releasably engage an associated protrusion or recess, respectively, included in the first inner coupling element. Alternatively or additionally, the first outer coupling element may include an edge and / or upper surface of the nut element axially away from the outer elongated member configured to engage with a first inner coupling element including a protrusion having an abutment surface configured to engage the edge and / or upper surface of the nut element.

[0053] In one embodiment, the outer elongated member includes a second outer coupling element configured to releasably engage a second inner coupling element of the at least one bracket.

[0054] The second, inner coupling element may include a protrusion or recess configured to releasably engage an associated recess or protrusion, respectively, included in the second, outer coupling element. Alternatively or additionally, the second, outer coupling element may be located at or near the axial end of the outer elongated member along which the inner elongated member is slidably disposed. The strut may include recesses, such as holes or slots, or protrusions, such as ribs, edges, flanges, knobs, or pins, near the end of the outer elongated member facing the nut, into which the protrusions of the retainer may be positioned. Similar recesses or protrusions may also be provided on the retainer.

[0055] The second outer coupling element can be configured to receive a tool for holding the outer elongated member when rotating the nut element.

[0056] The outer elongated member may include an abutment surface facing the nut element and surrounding an opening in which the inner elongated member is slidably disposed.

[0057] In one embodiment, the outer elongate member and the inner elongate member include guides configured to guide the inner elongate member in sliding axially through the outer elongate member and prevent rotation about the axis. For example, the outer elongate member may include a protruding guide facing the inner elongate member and configured to fit into a recessed guide included in the inner elongate member, or vice versa. Advantages of this arrangement include rapid length adjustment (especially compared to the slowness of threading) and enhanced resistance to unintentional axial sliding of the inner elongate member relative to the outer elongate member.

[0058] Preferably the struts are relief struts.

[0059] The struts may further include connectors at one or both axial ends of the struts, for example, a first connector disposed at the axial end of the outer elongate member and / or a second connector disposed at the axial end of the inner elongate member. One or both axial ends of the struts may be provided with accessories, preferably coupled to the struts via connectors.

[0060] A strut assembly of the present disclosure includes an adjustable-length strut as disclosed herein and a retainer of the present disclosure disposed or positionable on the strut. Various embodiments of the retainer and / or adjustable-length strut are connectable or connectable to one another. In particular, the retainer can be connectable to both the nut element and the outer elongated member, but need only be releasably connectable to one of the nut element and the outer elongated member. The retainer can, for example, be fixedly connectable to the other of the nut element and the outer elongated member.

[0061] In one embodiment, the strut assembly is configured as follows: the at least one bracket, in a retained state coupled to the nut element and the outer elongated member, prevents the inner elongated member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member and preferably also prevents the nut element from rotating on the inner elongated member; and In a released state in which at least one bracket is not coupled to at least one of the nut element and the outer elongated member, the inner elongated member is allowed to slide outward relative to the outer elongated member, and preferably the nut element is also allowed to rotate on the inner elongated member.

[0062] A support structure or raker structure is provided that includes at least one adjustable length strut assembly as described herein.

[0063] The present invention further provides a method of supporting and / or bearing an unstable load, the method comprising using a retention device according to the present disclosure, an adjustable length strut according to the present disclosure, and / or a strut arrangement according to the present disclosure.

[0064] In particular, the shoring method may include the following steps: providing a strut assembly according to the present disclosure; adjusting the length of the adjustable length strut based on the desired spacing by sliding the inner elongated member relative to the outer elongated member in an axial direction of the adjustable length strut; tightening the nut element onto the outer elongated member to prevent the inner elongated member from sliding inwardly relative to the outer elongated member; and A retaining device is coupled to both the nut element and the outer elongated member of the adjustable length strut to prevent the inner elongated member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member, and preferably also to prevent the nut element from rotating on the inner elongated member. The strut assembly may be provided with a separate retaining device and adjustable length strut, or may be provided with an adjustable length strut that includes a retaining device, for example, by having the retaining device already disposed on one of the nut element and the outer elongated member.

[0065] Finally, the present invention provides at least one use of: a retention device according to the present disclosure for supporting an unstable load, preferably in shoring applications, more preferably in rescue operations; an adjustable length strut according to the present disclosure; a strut assembly according to the present disclosure; and / or a strut or raker structure according to the present disclosure.

[0066] Various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated in the following drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0067] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows rescuers using two struts to provide spot support, each of which is secured by a retaining device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 shows the strut and associated retention device in a released state. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 shows a cross-sectional view of the strut and associated retention device of FIG. 2 in a retained state. [Figure 4A] 4A and 4B show a retainer and a flexible band disposed therewith. [Figure 4B] 4A and 4B show a retainer and a flexible band disposed therewith. [Figure 5A] 5A and 5B show the pivoting retainer in the closed and open positions, respectively. [Figure 5B] 5A and 5B show the pivoting retainer in the closed and open positions, respectively. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows the pivot retention device of FIGS. 5A and 5B placed on a strut. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows a detailed view of FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows a retainer pivotally coupled to a nut element of a strut and releasably coupled to an outer elongate member of said strut. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows a cross-sectional view of FIG. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of a retainer pivotally coupled to the outer elongated member of a strut and releasably coupled to a nut element of said strut. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 shows how a rescue tool is used to tighten a nut element onto the outer elongated member of an adjustable length strut. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows a detail view of FIG. 12 with the rescue tool released from the strut. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows the position in which the rescue tool shown in FIG. 12 can engage with the strut. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a view of the rescue tool and strut shown in FIG. 12 as viewed from the first axial end of the strut. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the rescue tool and strut shown in FIG. 12, viewed from the second axial end of the strut. [Figure 17]FIG. 17 shows a raker structure in which struts and retainers are employed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0068] In FIG. 1 , a slab-like unstable load 300 is supported by a support structure 100 including struts 1 (two struts 1 are shown as an example), allowing rescue personnel 500 to access the confined space below the unstable slab 300. The illustrated struts 1 are adjustable in length. The strut 1 includes an inner elongated member 2 extending in an axial direction 3 and having an external thread 4. The strut 1 further includes an outer elongated member 5 slidably arranged so that the inner elongated member 2 slides along the axial direction 3. The strut 1 is provided with a nut element 6 rotatably disposed on the inner elongated member 2 and including an internal thread 7 configured to engage with the external thread 4 of the inner elongated member 2.

[0069] The strut 1 is elongated along an axial direction 3 and includes two ends 8, 9. The first axial end 8 of the strut 1 is located at the distal end of the inner elongated member 2, away from the outer elongated member 5, and the second axial end 9 of the strut 1 is located at the distal end of the outer elongated member 5, away from the inner elongated member 2. The first and second axial ends 8, 9 are at opposite ends of the strut 1, and the length of the strut 1 may be defined between them. The length of the strut 1 can be adjusted to shorten or lengthen by sliding the inner elongated member 2 inward or outward relative to the outer elongated member 5, respectively. The strut 1 may be provided with an internal stop (not shown) that defines the maximum length of the strut 1 and prevents the inner elongated member 2 from sliding completely out of the outer elongated member 5. The minimum length of the strut 1 is achieved when the inner elongated member 2 is cut as far as possible into the outer elongated member 5 and the nut element 6 is threaded as far as possible toward the first axial end 8. The minimum length of the strut 1 may be defined by the length of the outer elongate member 5, for example, when the inner elongate member 2 can slide completely within the outer elongate member 5.

[0070] The strut 1 in Figures 1 to 3 is the same as that shown in Figures 6 to 8. For simplicity, in Figures 9 to 11, the strut 1 is shown schematically and detailed description is omitted (e.g., the outer thread 4, the inner thread 7, and the guide elements 12, 13 are omitted), although the same strut 1 can also be used.

[0071] In particular, it is advantageous to provide a retaining device 10 to prevent outward sliding of the inner elongate member 2 relative to the outer elongate member 5 when the length of the strut 1 is less than its maximum length.

[0072] The retaining device 10 is fitted to the adjustable length strut 1 and includes at least one bracket 11 configured to releasably couple the nut element 6 to the outer elongated member 5 to prevent the inner elongated member 2 from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member 5. The inner threads 7 of the nut element 6 mate with the outer threads 4 of the inner elongated member 2, preventing the inner elongated member 2 from sliding outward along the axial direction 3 relative to the outer elongated member 5 when the bracket 11 couples the nut element 6 to the outer elongated member 5.

[0073] A detailed view of the illustrated scene is provided to better illustrate the retention device 10 on the strut 1. This embodiment of the retention device 10 is further described in relation to Figures 2 through 4B. Another embodiment of the retention device 10 is shown in Figures 5A through 8.

[0074] While the illustrated embodiment has two brackets 11, only one bracket 11 may be sufficient to releasably couple the nut element 6 to the outer elongated member 5. Additionally, the retention device 10 may include at least two brackets 11. If more than one bracket 11 is used, they may be distributed across a tangential direction 33 relative to the axial direction 3 of the strut 1 to engage the nut element 6 and / or the outer elongated member 5 from various tangential positions, preferably on opposite sides of the strut 1. Such an arrangement balances forces and helps prevent buckling of the strut 1.

[0075] Returning to FIG. 1 , a connector 101 can be provided at the first axial end 8 and / or the second axial end 9 of the strut 1. The connector 101 can be configured to couple an accessory 102 to the strut 1 and / or to another strut 1 having the same connector 101 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 17 ). The connector 101 and / or the accessory 102 further define a shoring structure 100 that also includes the strut 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the accessory 102 provides a support surface 103 that abuts the unsteady load 300 or rests on the ground 400.

[0076] The nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5 of the strut 1 are configured to be releasably coupled by a retaining device 10, which prevents the inner elongated member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member. In other words, the strut 1 and the retaining device 10 are correspondingly configured to form two interrelated products that can engage with each other.

[0077] As shown here, strut 1 is a rescue strut. Rescue struts are typically portable by rescuers and can be manually operated in tight spaces. Alternatively or additionally, strut 1 and / or retention device 10 form modular components for a shoring or raker structure 100.

[0078] The strut 1, and in particular its outer elongate member 5 and inner elongate member 2, include guides 12, 13 configured to guide the inner elongate member sliding through the outer elongate member in the axial direction 3 and prevent rotation about the axial direction 3 (i.e., axial rotation of the inner elongate member 2 relative to the outer elongate member 3). In particular, FIGS. 1, 2, and 16 show that the inner elongate member 2 can include a first guide element 12 and the outer elongate member 5 can include a corresponding second guide element 13. These first and second guide elements 12, 13 can be arranged along the axial direction 3 of the strut 1. The first guide element 12 can be recessed inwardly in a radial direction 32 relative to the axial direction 3, and the second guide element 13 can be protruding inwardly in the same radial direction 32 (this option is particularly clearly shown in FIG. 16), or vice versa. Although a set of guides 12, 13 is shown, multiple guides 12, 13 may be provided, for example at different tangential positions along a tangential direction 33 relative to the axial direction 3 of the strut 1.

[0079] The outward sliding of the inner elongated member 2 relative to the outer elongated member 5 is limited by the position of the nut element 6. As the inner elongated member 2 slides inward into the outer elongated member 5, the nut element 6 rests on the outer elongated member 5, preventing further inward sliding and thus shortening of the strut 1. When the nut element 6 is tightened onto the outer elongated member 5 via the outer threads 4 of the inner elongated member 2, the inner elongated member 2 is prevented from sliding inward relative to the outer elongated member 5.

[0080] The outer elongated member 5 of the strut 1 may include an abutment surface 14 that faces the nut element 6 and surrounds an opening 15 (e.g., an insertion opening) through which the inner elongated member 2 is slidably disposed. The nut element 6 may include a bottom surface 16 that faces the outer elongated member 5 and rests on the abutment surface 14 that surrounds the opening 15 in the outer elongated member 5. The nut element 6 is tightened onto the outer elongated member 5, allowing the inner elongated member 2 to slide and push off the outer elongated member 5, thereby allowing fine adjustment of the length of the strut 1 when positioned to support the unstable load 300, for example, preferably before applying the retention device 10.

[0081] The bracket 11 of the retaining device 10 may be further configured to releasably couple the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5 to also prevent rotation of the nut element 5 on the inner elongated member 2 .

[0082] The bracket 11 can engage or couple the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5 when the nut element 6 abuts the outer elongated member 5. However, even when the retaining device 10 is applied, there may still be gaps or spaces between these components, for example because the retaining device 10 fills such spaces or spaces.

[0083] The figures (e.g., FIGS. 1, 3, 6-11) show a retaining state in which at least one bracket 11 of the retaining device 10 is coupled to the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5, preventing the inner elongated member 2 from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member 5 and preferably also preventing the nut element 6 from rotating on the inner elongated member 5. The nut element 6 can contact the outer elongated member 5 in the retaining state. Similarly, the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5 are configured to be releasably coupled by the retaining device 10, preventing the nut element 6 from rotating on the inner elongated member 5.

[0084] Also shown (e.g., FIGS. 2 and 5B) is a released state in which at least one bracket 11 of the retaining device 10 is not coupled (i.e., released) to at least one of the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5. In this state, outward sliding of the inner elongated member 2 relative to the outer elongated member 5 is permitted (i.e., unhindered), and preferably rotation of the nut element 6 on the inner elongated member 2 is also permitted. In the released state, at least one bracket 11 of the retaining device 10 may remain coupled to either the nut element 6 or the outer elongated member 5, particularly in embodiments in which the retaining device 10 is coupled to or disposed on the other of the nut element 6 or the outer elongated member 5. Examples of such embodiments are shown in FIGS. 9-11.

[0085] 3, 8, 10 and 11, the bracket 11 includes an inner surface 17 that is shaped to engage an outer surface portion 18 of the strut 1, which includes at least a portion of the nut element 6 and a portion of the outer elongated member 5. Thus, the outer surface portion 18 may be defined by a combination of some or all of the nut element 6 and a portion of the outer elongated member 5.

[0086] In particular, at least one bracket 11 may be configured to encompass or extend over the nut element 6 along the axial direction. The bracket may include a bridge portion 19 extending in the axial direction 3 between a first axial end 20 configured to engage the nut element 6 and a second axial end 21 configured to engage the outer elongated member 5 when positioned on the strut 1.

[0087] Similarly, an outer surface portion 18 of strut 1, including at least a portion of nut element 6 and a portion of outer elongate member 5, can be shaped to engage an inner surface 17 of bracket 10. In particular, nut element 6 can be correspondingly configured to be encompassed by bracket 11 along axial direction 3.

[0088] The illustrated bracket 11 includes a first inner coupling element 22 configured to releasably engage a first outer coupling element 23 of the nut element 6. Thus, the nut element 6 may include a first outer coupling element 23 configured to releasably engage the first inner coupling element 22 of the bracket 11. The inner and outer coupling elements can take a variety of forms. For example, the first inner coupling element 22 can include a protrusion 29 or a recess 30 configured to releasably engage a corresponding recess 30 or protrusion 29 included in the first outer coupling element 23, respectively.

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, the first internal coupling element 22 includes a protrusion 29 having an abutment surface 24 configured to engage an edge 25, particularly an upper edge and / or upper surface 26, of the nut element 6 that is remote from the outer elongated member 5 as viewed along the axial direction 3. The bracket 11 can surround the nut element 6. The first external coupling element 23 of the nut element 6 can include an edge 25 and / or upper surface 26 of the nut element 6 that is configured to engage with the first internal coupling element 22 of the bracket 11. The protrusion 20 of the first internal coupling element 22 can extend in the tangential direction 33 over an arc segment, for example, between 1 / 8 and 1 / 2 of a full circle.

[0090] Alternatively, the first inner coupling element 22 of the bracket 11 may be formed as a protrusion 29 configured to engage a corresponding recess 30 of the nut element 6 formed by the first outer coupling element 23 of the nut element 6. The strut 1 may be correspondingly formed in that the first outer coupling element 23 includes a recess 30 or protrusion 29 configured to releasably engage with an associated protrusion 29 or recess 29 included in the first inner coupling element 22, respectively.

[0091] Alternatively, or in addition to the first inner and outer coupling elements 22, 23, the bracket 11 and strut 1 can be releasably coupled by second inner and outer coupling elements 27, 28. The bracket 11 includes a second inner coupling element 27 configured to releasably engage with the second outer coupling element 28 of the outer elongate member 5. Similarly, the outer elongate member 5 of the strut 1 includes a second outer coupling element 28 configured to releasably engage with the second inner coupling element 27 of the bracket 11.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the second inner and outer coupling elements 27, 28 are respectively formed by a protrusion 29 located at the second axial end 9 of the bracket 11 and a corresponding recess 30 in the outer elongated member 5. The protrusion 29 and recess 30 are located radially inward of the strut 1 as viewed in a radial direction 32 relative to the axial direction 3. The protrusion 29 is elongated in the axial direction 3, and the recess 30 is similarly elongated in the axial direction 3 to form a slit.

[0093] Generally, the second inner coupling element 27 may include a protrusion 29 or recess 30 configured to releasably engage an associated recess 30 or protrusion 29, respectively, included in the second outer coupling element 28. Similarly, the second outer coupling element 28 of the outer elongated member 5 includes a protrusion 29 or recess 30 configured to releasably engage an associated recess 30 or protrusion 29, respectively, included in the second inner coupling element 27 of the bracket 11.

[0094] The second outer coupling element is disposed at or near the axial end 31 of the outer elongated member 5, on which the inner elongated member is slidably disposed. This axial end 31 is the end of the outer elongated member opposite the second axial end 9 of the strut 1. Said axial end 31 may therefore also be referred to as the inner axial end 31 of the outer elongated member 5. The axial end 31 may be defined by the abutment surface 14 of the outer elongated member 5.

[0095] The inner surface 17 of the bracket 11 can include either or both of a first internal coupling element 22 and a second internal coupling element 27. The retainer 10 of Figures 1-8 has both first and second internal coupling elements 22, 27, while the retainer 10 of Figures 9-10 has only the second internal coupling element 27, and the retainer 10 of Figure 11 has only the first internal coupling element 22.

[0096] In either case, the first internal coupling element 22 may be disposed at a first axial end 20 of the bracket 11 configured to be releasably coupled to the nut element 6, and / or the second internal coupling element 27 may be disposed at a second axial end 21 of the bracket 11 configured to be releasably coupled to the outer elongated member 5.

[0097] 1-4B, the first inner coupling element 22 of the bracket 11 is a protrusion 29 formed by the first outer coupling element 23 of the nut element 6 and the edge 25 and upper surface 26 of the nut element 6. The second inner coupling element 27 is an elongated protrusion 29 that corresponds to an elongated recess 30 (or slit) disposed toward the axial end 31 of the outer elongated member 5.

[0098] 5A to 8, the first and second internal coupling elements 22, 27 of the bracket 11 are formed as protrusions 29 (in the form of pins) configured to engage with corresponding edges 25 of the nut element 6 and recesses 30 of the outer elongated member 5, respectively.

[0099] 9 and 10, the bracket 11 includes a second, inner coupling element 27 that engages with a second, outer coupling element 28 of the outer elongated member 5. The second inner coupling element 27 is a hook-shaped protrusion 29 configured to engage a recess 30 in the second outer coupling element 28, which is in the form of an edge or flange near the inner axial end 31 of the outer elongated member 5.

[0100] 11 , the bracket 11 includes a first inner coupling element 22 that engages with a first outer coupling element 23 of the nut element 6. The first inner coupling element 22 is a hook-shaped protrusion 29 configured to engage a recess 30 of the first outer coupling element 23 in the form of an edge or flange located near the bottom surface 16 of the nut element 6.

[0101] Generally, the bracket 11 may include one of a first internal coupling element 22 and a second internal coupling element 27 configured to releasably engage one of the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5, respectively, and a pivot 34 coupleable to the other of the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5. In particular, the pivot 34 may be coupled to or fixedly positioned on the other of the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5.

[0102] The bracket 11 in the retention device of FIGS. 9-11 is pivotally coupled (or connectable, if provided separately) to one of the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5, and includes a biasing lever 35 releasably connectable to the other of the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5. The illustrated lever 35 has a pressing surface 36 for pressing against the first or second axial end 20, 21 of the bracket 11, thereby disengaging the second or first inner coupling element disposed at the second or first axial end 21, 20 of the bracket from the corresponding second or first outer coupling element 28, 23 of the strut 1. The lever 35 may be biased to urge the coupling elements to engage, as shown, but may alternatively be biased to urge the coupling elements to disengage. For example, additional means for clamping may be provided, as described below.

[0103] The retaining device 10 of Figures 9-11 may be provided as part of the length-adjustable strut 1, or at least together with its nut element 6 or outer elongated member 5. In this case, additional means for connecting the retaining device 10 to the strut 1 may not be necessary. Such a fixedly connected retaining device 10 may always connect the nut element 6 to the outer elongated member 5 when they are in the correct relative position. While this is advantageous in many use cases, a separate retaining device 10 (such as shown in Figures 1-8) may offer advantageous versatility.

[0104] In particular, where the retaining device 10 is provided separately from the strut 1, it may be desirable to have means for clamping the retaining device 10 to the strut 1. Two variations are shown.

[0105] 1-4B show a flexible band 37 for releasably coupling one or more brackets 11 to a strut 1, and in particular to the nut element 6 and / or outer elongate member 5 of the strut 1. The flexible band 37 may include a releasable band fastener 38, such as a hook-and-loop fastener.

[0106] The bracket may include a band guide slot 39 configured to guide a flexible band 37 around the bracket 11 in a tangential direction 33 relative to the axial direction 3 to secure one or more brackets 11 to the strut 1. Once the flexible band 37 is secured, the flexible band 37 can be pushed into the band guide slot 39.

[0107] The band guide slot 39 includes an upper rim 40 and a lower rim 41 extending in the tangential direction 33, which are configured to guide the flexible band 37 therebetween and prevent the flexible band 37 from slipping along the axial direction 3, which could cause the bracket 11 to become disengaged from the strut 1.

[0108] The flexible band 37 can be used to connect multiple brackets 11 to a single retention device 10. Two is shown here as a convenient number for installation by a rescuer 400 using both hands. A first bracket 11 is connected to the flexible band 37 at a first end thereof, and a second bracket 11 is connected at an appropriate distance along the flexible band 37 and positioned on the strut 1 opposite the first bracket 11. The second end of the flexible band 37 then protrudes beyond the second bracket 11, encircles the strut 1 at least once, and can be connected to itself, for example, by a releasable fastener 38.

[0109] 5A-7 show a retention device 10 including two brackets connected via a pivot 42. The pivot 42 is located at a first tangential end 43 of the bracket 11. A closure device 44 is provided in the form of a bolt and nut arrangement that releasably couples the two brackets at a second tangential end 45 opposite the first tangential end 43 where the pivot 42 is located. The closure device 44 may also be implemented as the flexible band 37 described above. When this retention device 10 is coupled to a strut 1, the pivot is located at a first tangential position relative to the axial direction 3 of the strut 1, and the closure device 44 is now located at a second tangential position opposite the first tangential position.

[0110] FIG. 5A shows the retaining device 10 in a closed or retained state, and FIG. 5B shows the retaining device 10 in an open or released state.

[0111] 6 shows a support structure 100 including an adjustable-length strut 1 and the retention device 10 of FIGS. 5A-5B. The connector 101 located at the second axial end 9 of the strut 1 is shown in more detail. Furthermore, the protrusions 29 of the first and second internal coupling elements 22, 27 of the bracket 11 are shown as releasable pins, e.g., bolts, whose position is adjustable along the radial direction 32.

[0112] Figures 1-3, 6-11, and 17 show various strut assemblies 50. Strut assembly 50 can include an adjustable length strut 1 and a retaining device 10 that is or can be positioned on strut 1. Retaining device 10 can be provided separately from strut 1, as shown in Figures 1-8, for example, or can be completely separate from strut 1. Alternatively, retaining device 10 can already be positioned on strut 1, for example, by being positioned on nut element 6 (e.g., Figures 9 and 10) or outer elongated member 5 (Figure 11).

[0113] Thus, a strut assembly 50 can be provided that includes, in combination, an adjustable length strut 1 as disclosed herein and a retainer 10 as disclosed herein, where the retainer 10 is disposed on or positionable on the strut 1. In other words, the retainer 10 can be configured to be connectable to the strut 1 to provide a strut assembly 50 having a separate retainer 10 and strut 1, or can be connected to the strut 1 to provide a strut assembly 50 having a fixedly connected retainer 10 and strut 1.

[0114] According to the various illustrated embodiments, the strut assembly 50 is configured such that, in a retained state in which at least one bracket 11 of the retention device 10 is coupled to the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5, it prevents the inner elongated member 2 from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member 5 and prevents the nut element 6 from rotating on the inner elongated member 2, and further, in a released state in which at least one bracket 11 is not coupled to at least one of the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5, it allows the inner elongated member 2 to slide outward relative to the outer elongated member 5 and also prevents the nut element 6 from rotating on the inner elongated member 2.

[0115] 12-16 illustrate advantageous further configurations and uses of the first and / or second outer coupling elements 23, 28 of the strut 1. As shown in these figures, the second outer coupling element 28 is configured to receive a tool 200 (shown here as a rescue tool) for holding the outer elongated member 5 when rotating the nut element 6. Additionally, the nut element 6 can also be configured to receive or engage a similar tool 200. The first outer coupling element 23 of the nut element 6 may include a recess 30, shown as a groove 46, on its outer surface, particularly along the axial direction 3.

[0116] The rescue tool 200 provides a wrench function that is adapted to the strut 1. Two such tools 200 can be used, one that engages the nut element 6 and the other that engages the outer elongated member 5. The nut element 6 can be rotated on the inner elongated member 2 towards or away from the outer elongated member 5 to pretension or release the connection between these components.

[0117] The rescue tool 200 includes a head 201 and a handle 202. The head 201 is formed, at least in part, by a curved portion 205 of the tool 200 extending laterally from the handle 202. The head 201 is provided with a protrusion 203 configured to engage a recess 30 in the second outer coupling element 28 of the outer elongated member and a recess 30 or groove 46 disposed on the nut element 6. The curved portion 205 extends laterally from the handle 202 such that, when the protrusion 203 engages the recess 30 or groove 46, the tool 200 can be used to apply torque along the tangential direction 33. The handle 202 also preferably is provided with an abutment 204 for contacting the nut element 6 or the outer elongated element 5 at different tangential positions. The abutment 204 forms a pivot for applying torque with the tool 200. The tangential positions at which the protrusion 203 and the abutment 204 engage the strut 1 are preferably separated by approximately one-quarter of a full circle.

[0118] 13 shows that the tool 200 can be used in the direction of the arrow to engage and disengage the recess 30 or groove 46 of the nut element 6 with the recess 30 of the outer elongated member 5. Upon engagement, a tangential force 33 is applied to the handle 201 of the tool 200, causing the protrusion 203 to pull the nut element 6 or outer elongated member 5 through the recess 30.

[0119] 17, the support structure 100 is shown as a raker structure. The raker structure 100 includes one or more adjustable-length struts 1. Retention devices 10 are positioned on the adjustable-length struts 1 that function as braces 104 in the raker structure 100 to prevent the inner elongated members 2 from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated members 5 (i.e., to prevent elongation of the struts 1 that function as braces 104). The remaining struts 1 function as conventional struts, which are less susceptible to elongation problems.

[0120] In the illustrated example, the retention device 10 shown in Figures 5A-8 is shown by way of example only. The illustrated raker structure 100 employs a variety of strut assemblies 50.

[0121] The retaining device 10 may further be configured to couple to the first and / or second axial ends 8, 9 of the strut 1, for example via a connector 101 or an accessory 102.

[0122] 17, the retention device 10 is configured to clamp the outer threads 4 of the inner elongated member 2, the connector 101, or the outer elongated member 5. Thus, the retention device 10 disclosed herein provides a versatile construction component for shoring applications.

[0123] Although protrusions 29 are shown on the retainer 10 and recesses 30 are shown on the strut 1, the implementation of the coupling elements may be reversed or combined. For example, the outer elongated member 5 may include a second outer coupling element 28 in the form of one or more protrusions 29, while the second inner coupling element 27 of the bracket 11 may be provided in the form of one or more associated recesses 30. Similar variations are possible for the first inner coupling element 22 and the first outer coupling element 23.

[0124] When the adjustable length strut 1 is used in combination with the support device 10, it may be necessary to support an unstable load 300, for example, in a shoring application or rescue operation (e.g., as shown in Figures 1 and 17), and it may be necessary to assemble the strut assembly 50 and / or the shoring structure 100.

[0125] The shoring method may preferably include the following steps in this order: As disclosed herein, an adjustable length strut 1 and a retention device 10 are provided. The length of the adjustable-length strut 1 is adjusted based on the desired spacing. This is done by sliding the inner elongated member 2 relative to the outer elongated member 5 in the axial direction 3 of the adjustable-length strut 1. The length can be varied between the minimum and maximum lengths of the adjustable-length strut 1 and can be selected depending on the space to be spanned for a particular application. This step may include positioning the adjustable-length strut 1 to support the unstable load 300. The nut element 6 is tightened onto the outer elongated member 5 to prevent the inner elongated member 2 from sliding inward relative to the outer elongated member 5. The nut element 6 contacts the outer elongated member 5 to mechanically stop the inward sliding. Tightening can include using the rescue tool 200 as described in relation to Figures 12 to 16. During this step, the unstable load 300 can be supported by the length-adjustable strut 1. The retaining device 10 is coupled to both the nut element 6 and the outer elongated member 5 of the length-adjustable strut 1 and prevents the inner elongated member 2 from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member 5. This also prevents the nut element 6 from rotating on the inner elongated member 2. The flexible band 37 and / or the closure device 44 can be closed around the retention device 10 and further secured to the length-adjustable strut 1 .

[0126] Depending on the use case, the length-adjustable strut 1 can be positioned to support the unstable load 300, for example, during or after any of the steps of adjusting the length of the length-adjustable strut 1, tightening its nut element 6, or coupling the retaining device 10 to it.

[0127] When use is complete and the adjustable length strut 1 or strut assembly is to be removed from the unstable load 300, the above steps can be performed in reverse order.

Claims

1. 1. A retaining device adapted for an adjustable length strut, the retaining device comprising: an inner elongated member extending axially and having an external thread; an outer elongated member slidably disposed so that the inner elongated member slides axially; and a nut element rotatably disposed on the inner elongated member, the nut element having an internal thread configured to engage the external thread of the inner elongated member, the retaining device comprising: At least one bracket configured to releasably couple the nut element and the outer elongated member to prevent the inner elongated member from sliding outwardly relative to the outer elongated member. Including, the retaining device further comprises a flexible band releasably coupling the at least one bracket to the nut element and / or the outer elongated member of the strut; and the at least one bracket includes a band guide slot configured to guide a flexible band tangentially to the axial direction around the at least one bracket to secure the at least one bracket to a strut; A holding device in which at least one of the above conditions is satisfied.

2. The retaining device of claim 1 , wherein the at least one bracket is further configured to releasably couple the nut element and the outer elongated member to prevent the nut element from rotating on the inner elongated member.

3. the at least one bracket, in a retained state coupled to the nut element and the outer elongated member, prevents the inner elongated member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member, and preferably also prevents the nut element from rotating on the inner elongated member; and In a released state in which the at least one bracket is not coupled to at least one of the nut element and the outer elongated member, the inner elongated member is allowed to slide outward relative to the outer elongated member, and preferably the nut element is also allowed to rotate on the inner elongated member.

3. The holding device according to claim 1 or 2, configured as follows:

4. 4. The retaining device of claim 1, wherein the at least one bracket includes an inner surface shaped to engage an outer surface portion of a strut including at least a portion of the nut element and a portion of the outer elongated member.

5. The retaining device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one bracket is configured to encompass the nut element along an axial direction.

6. The retaining device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the at least one bracket includes a first inner coupling element configured to releasably engage with a first outer coupling element of the nut element.

7. The retaining device of claim 6 , wherein the first inner coupling element includes a protrusion or recess configured to releasably engage an associated recess or protrusion, respectively, included in the first outer coupling element.

8. 8. The retaining device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the first inner coupling element includes a protrusion having an abutment surface configured to engage an edge and / or an upper surface of the nut element axially away from the outer elongated member.

9. The retention device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the at least one bracket includes a second inner coupling element configured to releasably engage a second outer coupling element of the outer elongated member.

10. 10. The retaining device of claim 9, wherein the second inner coupling element includes a protrusion or recess configured to releasably engage an associated recess or protrusion, respectively, included in the second outer coupling element.

11. A retaining device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, dependent on at least claim 4 and in combination with claims 6 and / or 9, wherein the inner surface of the at least one bracket comprises the first internal coupling element and / or the second internal coupling element.

12. A retaining device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, when dependent on at least claim 6 and / or 9, wherein the at least one bracket comprises: the first internal coupling element disposed at a first axial end of the bracket is configured to be releasably coupled to the nut element; and the second inner coupling element is disposed at a second axial end of the bracket and is configured to be releasably coupled to the outer elongated member. A holding device comprising at least one of:

13. A retention device according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one bracket includes a band guide slot.

14. 14. The retaining device of claim 13, wherein the band guide slot comprises tangentially extending upper and lower rims configured to guide the flexible band therebetween.

15. A retaining device according to any preceding claim, comprising the flexible band.

16. 16. The retaining device of claim 15, wherein the flexible band comprises a removable band fastener, preferably a hook and loop fastener.

17. A retaining device according to any preceding claim, wherein the at least one bracket comprises two brackets.

18. 18. The retention device of claim 17, further comprising a pivot connecting the two brackets at a first tangential location.

19. 19. A retaining device according to claim 17 or 18, including a closure device for releasably joining the two brackets at the second tangent position.

20. A retaining device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, when dependent on at least claim 6 and / or 9, wherein the at least one bracket comprises: one of the first internal coupling element and the second internal coupling element is configured to releasably engage one of the nut element and the outer elongated member, respectively; and a pivot connectable to the other of the nut element and the outer elongated member; a holding device comprising:

21. 21. A retaining device according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the at least one bracket includes a biasing lever pivotally coupleable to one of the nut element and the outer elongated member and releasably coupleable to the other of the nut element and the outer elongated member.

22. Strut assembly, including: A retention device disposed or positionable on a strut according to any one of claims 1 to 21; and A length-adjustable strut having an axially extending inner elongated member having an external thread, an outer elongated member slidably disposed so that the inner elongated member slides axially, and a nut element rotatably disposed on the inner elongated member and having internal threads configured to engage with the external threads of the inner elongated member, wherein the nut element and the outer elongated member are releasably coupled by the retaining device configured to prevent the inner elongated member from sliding outwardly relative to the outer elongated member. Including, A strut assembly, wherein the retaining device is disposed on the strut or is disposable on the strut.

23. the at least one bracket, in a retained state coupled to the nut element and the outer elongated member, prevents the inner elongated member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member, and preferably also prevents the nut element from rotating on the inner elongated member; and In a released state in which the at least one bracket is not coupled to at least one of the nut element and the outer elongated member, the inner elongated member is allowed to slide outward relative to the outer elongated member, and preferably the nut element is also allowed to rotate on the inner elongated member.

23. The strut assembly of claim 22, configured as follows:

24. 24. A strut assembly according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the strut is configured to prevent the inner elongated member from slipping inwardly relative to the outer elongated member when the nut element is tightened onto the outer elongated member via the external threads of the inner elongated member.

25. the nut element and the outer elongated member are releasably coupled by the retaining device configured to prevent the nut element from rotating on the inner elongated member; an outer surface portion of the strut, including at least a portion of the nut element and a portion of the outer elongated member, is shaped to engage an inner surface of the at least one bracket; and The nut element is configured to be encompassed by the at least one bracket along an axial direction. The strut assembly according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied.

26. 26. A strut assembly according to any one of claims 22 to 25, wherein the nut element includes a first outer coupling element configured to releasably engage a first inner coupling element of the at least one bracket.

27. the first outer coupling element includes a recess or protrusion configured to releasably engage an associated protrusion or recess included in the first inner coupling element, respectively; and the first outer coupling element includes an edge and / or an upper surface of the nut element axially away from the outer elongated member and is configured to engage with the first inner coupling element, the first inner coupling element including a protrusion having an abutment surface configured to engage the edge and / or upper surface of the nut element; 27. The strut assembly of claim 26, wherein at least one of the following is satisfied:

28. 28. A strut assembly according to any one of claims 22 to 27, wherein the outer elongated member includes a second outer coupling element configured to releasably engage a second inner coupling element of the at least one bracket.

29. 29. The strut assembly of claim 28, wherein the second outer coupling element includes a protrusion or recess configured to releasably engage an associated recess or protrusion, respectively, included in the second inner coupling element.

30. 30. A strut assembly according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the second outer coupling element is disposed at or near an axial end of the outer elongated member on which the inner elongated member is slidably disposed.

31. 31. The strut assembly of claim 28, wherein the second outer coupling element is configured to receive a tool for holding the outer elongated member when rotating the nut element.

32. A strut assembly according to any one of claims 22 to 31, wherein the outer elongated member includes an abutment surface facing the nut element and surrounding an opening in which the inner elongated member is slidably disposed.

33. 33. The strut assembly of claim 22, wherein the outer elongated member and the inner elongated member include guides configured to guide axial sliding of the inner elongated member through the outer elongated member and to prevent rotation about the axial direction.

34. A strut assembly according to any one of claims 22 to 33, wherein the strut is a relief strut.

35. A shoring or raker structure comprising at least one strut assembly according to any one of claims 22 to 34.

36. Shoring method, including the following steps: Providing a strut assembly according to any one of claims 22 to 34; adjusting the length of the adjustable length strut based on a desired spacing by sliding the inner elongate member relative to the outer elongate member axially of the adjustable length strut; tightening the nut element onto the outer elongated member to prevent the inner elongated member from sliding inwardly relative to the outer elongated member; and The retaining device is coupled to both the nut element and the outer elongated member of the adjustable length strut to prevent the inner elongated member from sliding outward relative to the outer elongated member, and preferably also to prevent the nut element from rotating on the inner elongated member. A method comprising:

37. Use of a retention device according to any one of claims 1 to 21, a strut assembly according to any one of claims 22 to 34, and / or a shoring or raker structure according to claim 36 to support an unstable load, preferably in shoring applications, more preferably for rescue operations.

Images