Coupling assembly for scaffold tubes, coupling system, scaffold system, scaffold construction, method, and use

Abstract

Coupling assembly for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube and a second scaffold tube, comprising: a first bayonet part configured to engage in a bayonet connection with a second bayonet part that is connectable or connected to the second scaffold tube at an end thereof; and a clamping assembly comprising: a base part connected to the first bayonet part; a lid part that is hingedly connected at a first end thereof to the base part to be rotatable between a first lid part position and a more opened second lid part position, wherein in the first lid part position the first scaffold tube can be clamped in a clamping space between the base part and the lid part, and wherein in the second lid part position the first scaffold tube is movable into and out of the clamping space; and a clamping mechanism configured to selectively limit rotation of the lid part relative to the base part towards the second lid part position to thereby clamp the first scaffold tube in the clamping space.

Description

[0001] Title: Coupling assembly for scaffold tubes, coupling system, scaffold system, scaffold construction, method, and use

[0002] FIELD

[0003] The invention relates to a coupling assembly for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube and a second scaffold tube. The invention further relates to: a coupling system comprising the coupling assembly; a scaffold system comprising the coupling system; a scaffold construction comprising the scaffold system; a method for forming the scaffold construction; and a use of the coupling assembly.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Coupling assemblies for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube and a second scaffold tube, also referred to in practice as scaffold couplings, are known as such in various forms. Nevertheless, there is a need for further improvements. For instance, to date, it is often difficult to achieve a flat continuous scaffold floor at a corner in the path of a scaffold construction, such as where the scaffold construction extends continuously along a front and side facade of a building. More generally, it is desirable to enhance coupling possibilities and ease of use of scaffold couplings.

[0006] SUMMARY

[0007] An objective of the invention is to provide a coupling assembly that allows two scaffold tubes to be relatively easily coupled to each other. An objective is to provide additional or alternative coupling possibilities for scaffold tubes compared to one or more known coupling assemblies. An objective is to facilitate the realization of a flat continuous scaffold floor at a corner in the path of a scaffold construction.

[0008] An aspect of the invention provides a coupling assembly for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube and a second scaffold tube. The coupling assembly comprises a first bayonet part configured to engage in a bayonet connection with a second bayonet part that is connectable or connected to the second scaffold tube at an end of the second scaffold tube.

[0009] The coupling assembly further comprises a clamping assembly. The clamping assembly comprises a base part connected to the first bayonet part. The clamping assembly further comprises a lid part that is hingedly connected at a first end thereof to the base part to be rotatable between a first lid part position and a more opened second lid part position. In the first lid part position, the first scaffold tube can be clamped in a clamping space between the base part and the lid part. In the second lid part position, the first scaffold tube is movable into and out of the clamping space. The clamping assembly comprises a clamping mechanism configured to selectively limit rotation of the lid part relative to the base part towards the second lid part position to thereby clamp the first scaffold tube in the clamping space.

[0010] By the combination of the first bayonet part on one hand and the clamping assembly with lid part on the other hand, the scaffold tubes can be relatively easily coupled to each other. The clamping assembly can advantageously be positioned relatively freely along and around the first scaffold tube, with the first bayonet part and thus the second scaffold tube being able to extend from the first scaffold tube in various directions. The direction of the second scaffold tube is, for example, dependent on the positioning of the first bayonet part relative to the base part, for which the coupling assembly offers a relatively large design freedom. For instance, the second scaffold tube can extend radially relative to the first scaffold tube when an axial direction of the first bayonet part correspondingly extends radially and an axial direction of the second bayonet part coincides with an axis of the second scaffold tube. In this way, a right-angle connection, or more generally a connection including an angle, can be realized between two horizontal scaffold tubes that are at a same level. This facilitates the realization of a flat continuous scaffold floor at a corner in the path of a scaffold construction. By allowing a scaffold floor to run flat, safety when walking on the scaffold floor can be enhanced.

[0011] In known scaffold constructions, there is often a level difference between horizontal scaffold tubes at a corner in the path of the scaffold construction due to limitations of the used coupling assemblies. As a result, the scaffold floor at such a corner often does not run flat.

[0012] Systems for bayonet connections between scaffold tubes are known known as such from practice. An example is the so-called SCALOK system, as shown in a Dutch manual accessible via http s : / / web . archive . or g / web / 20240304182610 / https: / / w w w . scafom - rux.nl / files / default / public / downloads / nl- downloadcenter / Erection / SCALQK%20Erection%20Manual.ndf. However, the bayonet connections in this system are solely configured for end-to-end coupling of two scaffold tubes in each other's extension, so that other types of couplings are needed for coupling two scaffold tubes at an angle. By contrast, in embodiments of the coupling assembly described herein, the first bayonet part can be used in combination with a second bayonet part of such a known system for bayonet connections. Thus, a particularly versatile modular coupling system can be realized with reuse of components from a known system.

[0013] A further aspect provides a coupling system for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube and a second scaffold tube, comprising the coupling assembly as described herein and the second bayonet part. In embodiments, the second bayonet part is fixedly connected to the end of the second scaffold tube. In embodiments, an axis of the second bayonet part coincides with an axis of the second scaffold tube.

[0014] A further aspect provides a scaffold system comprising the mentioned coupling system and the first scaffold tube. A further aspect provides a scaffold construction comprising the mentioned scaffold system, wherein the first scaffold tube is clamped in the clamping space using the clamping mechanism.

[0015] A further aspect provides a method for forming the mentioned scaffold construction. The method comprises: providing the scaffold system as described herein; and clamping the first scaffold tube in the clamping space using the clamping mechanism. In embodiments, the method further comprises forming the bayonet connection between the first bayonet part and the second bayonet part.

[0016] A further aspect provides a use of a coupling assembly as described herein for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube and a second scaffold tube.

[0017] With the mentioned further aspects, advantages can be achieved corresponding to the advantages described herein for the coupling assembly.

[0018] Optional advantageous further elaborations of the mentioned aspects are provided by the features of the dependent claims, as explained in the following detailed description.

[0019] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The invention is further explained below using examples of embodiments and drawings. The descriptions of embodiments can also be understood without the references to the drawings. The drawings are schematic and only show examples. In the drawings, corresponding elements are indicated with corresponding reference signs. In the drawings:

[0021] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of a first example of a coupling assembly, with the clamping assembly in an opened state;

[0022] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the coupling assembly of Fig. 1, with the clamping assembly in a non-clamping closed state;

[0023] Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of the coupling assembly of Fig. 1 and 2, with the clamping assembly in a clamping closed state; Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of an example of an end of a second scaffold tube provided with a second bayonet part;

[0024] Fig. 5 shows a side view of the coupling assembly of Fig. 3;

[0025] Fig. 6A shows an axial view of the second scaffold tube of Fig. 4, with an end of the first bayonet part of the coupling assembly of Fig. 5 or Fig. 9 inserted into the second bayonet part of the second scaffold tube;

[0026] Fig. 6B shows an axial view corresponding to Fig. 6 A, with the bayonet parts twisted relative to each other about a common axis to engage in a mutual bayonet connection;

[0027] Fig. 7 shows a front view of the coupling assembly of Fig. 3;

[0028] Fig. 8 shows a top view of the coupling assembly of Fig. 3;

[0029] Fig. 9 shows a front view of a second example of a coupling assembly;

[0030] Fig. 10 shows a top view of the coupling assembly of Fig. 9;

[0031] Fig. 11A and 11B show a perspective view and an axial view, respectively, of a first example of a scaffold tube;

[0032] Fig. 12A and 12B show a perspective view and an axial view, respectively, of a second example of a scaffold tube;

[0033] Fig. 13 and 14 each show a perspective view of a third example of a coupling assembly, with the coupling assembly in Fig. 13 in a closed state and in Fig. 14 in a more opened state;

[0034] Fig. 15A shows an isometric view of a scaffold construction comprising coupling assemblies as shown in Fig. 13-14;

[0035] Fig. 15B shows a detail B from Fig. 15A; and

[0036] Fig. 15C shows a partial side view of the scaffold construction of Fig. 15 A.

[0037] Figs. 1-3, 5-10, 13-14, and 15A-C illustrate examples of a coupling assembly 1 for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube 2 and a second scaffold tube 3. The coupling assembly 1 comprises a first bayonet part 4 configured to engage in a bayonet connection 5 with a second bayonet part 6 that is connectable or connected to the second scaffold tube 3 at an end of the second scaffold tube 3. The coupling assembly 1 comprises a clamping assembly 7. The clamping assembly 7 comprises a base part 8 connected to the first bayonet part 4.

[0038] The clamping assembly 7 includes a lid part 9 that is hingedly connected at a first end 10 thereof to the base part 8 to be rotatable between a first lid part position and a more opened second lid part position. In the first lid part position, the first scaffold tube 2 can be clamped in a clamping space 11 between the base part 8 and the lid part 9. In the second lid part position, the first scaffold tube 2 is movable into and out of the clamping space 11.

[0039] In Figs. 1, 9-10, and 13-14, a rotation axis R9 of the lid part 9 relative to the base part 8 is indicated as an illustrative example. Figs. 2, 3, 5, 7-10, and 13 show a possible first lid part position. Figs. 1 and 14 show a possible second lid part position. It should be clear that different first and second lid part positions are possible. For instance, compared to the lid part position shown in Fig. 1 or Fig. 14, the second lid part position can be a further opened position.

[0040] The clamping assembly 7 comprises a clamping mechanism 12 configured to selectively limit rotation of the lid part 9 relative to the base part 8 towards the second lid part position to thereby clamp the first scaffold tube 2 in the clamping space 11.

[0041] In Figs. 1-3, 9-10, and 13-14, for clarity of the figures, the first scaffold tube 2 is not shown, wherein in Figs. 2-3, 9-10, and 13, an axial direction C2 of the first scaffold tube 2 is nevertheless shown. In the state of the coupling assembly 1 shown in Fig. 1 and Fig. 14, or another state with a second lid part position, the first scaffold tube 2 can, for example, be placed against the base part 8 or the lid part 9 with its axial direction C2 parallel to the rotation axis R9. Particularly in the example of Fig. 1, the first scaffold tube 2 can initially be positioned in a cavity of the lid part 9 between the first and second ends 10, 17 of the lid part 9, to subsequently move together with the lid part 9 towards the base part 8, as further explained elsewhere herein. Figs. 11A-B show an axial section of an example of a possible first scaffold tube 2, and Figs. 12A-B show an axial section of a further example of a possible first scaffold tube 2. A difference between these two examples is explained elsewhere in this description. Examples of first scaffold tubes 2 and second scaffold tubes 3 are also seen in Figs. 15A-C in the context of a possible scaffold construction 20.

[0042] In Figs. 1-3, 5, 9-10, and 13-14, for clarity of the figures, the second scaffold tube 3 is not shown, wherein in the same figures, an axial direction C3 of the second scaffold tube 3 is nevertheless shown. The second scaffold tube 3 can, for example, be implemented according to one of the examples of the first scaffold tube 2 shown in Figs. 11A-B, 12A-B, and 15A-C. The two scaffold tubes 2, 3 can be configured mutually correspondingly, but that is not necessary.

[0043] For clarity of the figures, Figs. 11A-B and 12A-B show relatively short scaffold tube sections, wherein it should be clear that the scaffold tubes are relatively long in practice, as is as such customary for scaffold tubes and as is further illustrated in Figs. 15A-C.

[0044] Figs. 7 and 8 further illustrate an example of a coupling system 18 for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube 2 and a second scaffold tube 3, comprising the coupling assembly 1 and the second bayonet part 6. An example of the second bayonet part 6 is also shown in Figs. 4 and 6A-B. An axial direction C6 of the second bayonet part 6 in a coupled state relative to the first bayonet part 4 is indicated in Figs. 1-3, 5, and 9-10, so it should be clear how the examples of the coupling assembly 1 shown in those figures can also be part of such a coupling system 18. Figs. 15A-C show a further example of a coupling system 18, particularly comprising a coupling assembly as shown in Figs. 13-14, wherein the coupling system 18 of Figs. 15A-C can otherwise be configured substantially according to the example of Figs. 7 and 8.

[0045] Figs. 7 and 8 further illustrate an example of a scaffold system 19 comprising the coupling system 18 and the first scaffold tube 2. Figs. 7 and 8 further illustrate an example of a scaffold construction 20 comprising the scaffold system 19, wherein the first scaffold tube 2 is clamped in the clamping space 11 using the clamping mechanism 12. An axial direction C2 of the first scaffold tube 2 in a coupled state is indicated in Figs. 2-3, 5, and 9-10, so it should be clear how the examples of the first scaffold tube 2 shown in those figures can also be part of such a scaffold system 18 and such a scaffold construction 20. A further example of such a scaffold system 19 and such a scaffold construction 20 is shown in Figs. 15A-C, as further explained elsewhere herein.

[0046] In view of the above, the mentioned figures further illustrate examples of a method for forming the scaffold construction 20, comprising: providing the scaffold system 19; and clamping the first scaffold tube 2 in the clamping space 11 using the clamping mechanism 12. In view of the above, the mentioned figures further illustrate examples of a use of the coupling assembly 1 for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube 2 and a second scaffold tube 3.

[0047] Regarding advantages of the coupling assembly 1, the coupling system 18, the scaffold system 19, the scaffold construction 20, the method, and the use, reference is made to the above summary.

[0048] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the second bayonet part 6 is fixedly connected to the end of the second scaffold tube 3. This can provide a relatively stable coupling. The second bayonet part 6 can, for example, be fixedly connected to the second scaffold tube 3 by welding.

[0049] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, an axial direction C6 of the second bayonet part 6 coincides with an axial direction C3 of the second scaffold tube 3. This allows a rotational movement for engaging the bayonet connection 5 to be driven for example by rotating the second scaffold tube 3 about its own axial direction C3, which requires relatively little movement space and, for example, allows the person driving the rotation to be at a distance from the coupling assembly 1. In the known SCALOK system, the axial directions of the bayonet parts typically coincide with the axial directions of the respective scaffold tubes, so components of this known system can advantageously be used in combination with the present coupling assembly.

[0050] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the scaffold system 19 further comprises the second scaffold tube 3. In embodiments, the first scaffold tube 2 and / or the second scaffold tube 3 is included as a standard or ledger in the scaffold construction 20. In the example of Fig. 15A-C, both the first scaffold tubes 2 and the second scaffold tubes 3 are included as ledgers, particularly longitudinal ledgers, in the scaffold construction 20, with standards 28 and transverse ledgers 26 being formed by further scaffold tubes. In embodiments of the scaffold system 19, including in the shown examples, the first bayonet part 4 and the second bayonet part 6 form the bayonet connection 5 with each other. In embodiments, the method includes forming the bayonet connection 5 between the first bayonet part 4 and the second bayonet part 6. Such measures can particularly effectively utilize the advantages described elsewhere herein.

[0051] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the clamping assembly 7 determines an axial direction C2 of the clamped first scaffold tube 2, wherein an axial direction C4 of the first bayonet part 4 intersects with the axial direction C2 of the clamped first scaffold tube 2 determined by the clamping assembly 7. This allows the first scaffold tube 2 and the second scaffold tube 3 to extend substantially in a same plane in a coupled state. When the mentioned plane is, for example, a substantially horizontal plane, a flat continuous scaffold floor can be relatively easily formed, as can be seen in the scaffold construction 20 in Fig. 15A-C. For illustration, Fig. 15C schematically indicates possible floor parts 27 with dashed lines for a second scaffold floor level F2, which floor parts 27 together can form a flat continuous scaffold floor, particularly also where the scaffold construction 20 runs around a corner, such as at a corner of a building. Fig. 15A shows that a corresponding possibility is provided for an underlying first scaffold floor level Fl. More generally, in embodiments of the scaffold construction 20, including in the example of Fig. 15A-C, the first scaffold tube 2 and the second scaffold tube 3: are both included as ledgers in the scaffold construction 20; both extend substantially horizontally; together define a substantially horizontal plane; and / or support one or more floor parts 27, for example as longitudinal ledgers in cooperation with transverse ledgers 26 coupled to the first scaffold tube 2 and / or the second scaffold tube 3.

[0052] As an alternative to a substantially horizontal plane, the first scaffold tube 2 and the second scaffold tube 3 can, for example, extend in a same substantially vertical plane or an inclined plane. As a further alternative, the scaffold tubes may extend in different planes in some variants of the coupling assembly. Thus, the coupling assembly 1 offers many design and application possibilities.

[0053] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the axial direction C4 of the first bayonet part 4 at least selectively extends radially relative to the axial direction C2 of the clamped first scaffold tube 2 determined by the clamping assembly 7. This allows the first scaffold tube and the second scaffold tube 3 to extend substantially perpendicularly to each other in a coupled state, particularly while they extend substantially in a same plane as mentioned above. Right-angle connections between scaffold tubes are often desirable in scaffold constructions, for example, where the scaffold construction 20 runs around a right angle, as shown for example in Fig. 15A-B.

[0054] In possible alternative embodiments, the axial direction of the first bayonet part at least selectively extends non-radially relative to the axial direction of the clamped first scaffold tube determined by the clamping assembly. This allows the first scaffold tube and the second scaffold tube to extend in a coupled state substantially obliquely relative to each other, particularly while they extend substantially in a same plane as mentioned above. Oblique connections between scaffold tubes can sometimes be desirable in scaffold constructions, for example, where the scaffold construction runs around a non-right angle.

[0055] In possible embodiments, the coupling assembly is adjustably configured to allow the axial direction of the first bayonet part to be adjustable relative to the axial direction of the clamped first scaffold tube determined by the clamping assembly. This allows the first scaffold tube and the second scaffold tube to extend in a coupled state at a selectable adjustable angle relative to each other, particularly while they extend substantially in a same plane as mentioned above. To provide the mentioned adjustability, a hinged connection can be provided between the base part and the first bayonet part, particularly with a hinge axis that is perpendicular to both the axial direction of the first bayonet part and the axial direction of the clamped first scaffold tube determined by the clamping assembly.

[0056] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the first bayonet part 4 is a male bayonet part, wherein the second bayonet part 6 is, for example, a female bayonet part. This allows the coupling assembly 1 to be relatively compact. Alternatively, the first bayonet part may be a female bayonet part, wherein the second bayonet part is, for example, a male bayonet part. In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the first bayonet part 4 for engaging in the bayonet connection 5 comprises one or more first engagement surfaces 13 configured for engagement with one or more second engagement surfaces 14 of the second bayonet part 6, wherein the first and second engagement surfaces 13, 14 extend radially relative to respective axes C4, C6 of the bayonet parts 4, 6. This allows a bayonet connection to be realized in a relatively simple yet effective manner. The engagement surfaces 13 of the male bayonet part 4 preferably extend radially outward from an outward-facing side surface of the bayonet part 4; the engagement surfaces 14 of the female bayonet part 6 preferably extend radially inward from an inward-facing side surface of the bayonet part 6. The bayonet parts 4, 6 are preferably configured to allow the engagement surfaces 13, 14 to hook behind each other in an axial direction in a coupled state to axially lock the bayonet parts 4, 6 relative to each other. The engagement surfaces 13, 14 can, for example, be formed on one or more radially extending protrusions of the respective bayonet part.

[0057] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the engagement between the mutual engagement surfaces 13, 14 can be achieved by rotating the bayonet parts 2, 4 relative to each other about a common bayonet axis C4, C6 after one 4 of the first bayonet part 4 and the second bayonet part 6 is inserted into the other 6 of the first bayonet part 4 and the second bayonet part 6 in an insertion direction that coincides with the common bayonet axis C4, C6, wherein the common bayonet axis C4, C6 corresponds to coinciding respective axial directions C4, C6 of both bayonet parts 4, 6. This allows the bayonet connection to be obtained relatively easily yet effectively during use.

[0058] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the mutual engagement surfaces 13, 14 extend substantially in a respective plane that extends substantially transversely relative to a respective axis C4, C6 of the respective bayonet part 4, 6. This allows engagement between the engagement surfaces 13, 14 to provide relatively effective mutual axial locking of the bayonet parts 4, 6.

[0059] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the mutual engagement surfaces 13, 14 are circumferentially interrupted relative to the axis C4, C6 of the respective bayonet part 4, 6 to allow the mutual engagement surfaces 13, 14 to axially pass each other upon the insertion of the one bayonet part 4 into the other bayonet part 6. This allows the axial locking made possible by the engagement surfaces 13, 14 to be dependent on a mutual rotational position of the bayonet parts 4, 6 about a common axis C4, C6, so that the axial locking can be selectively engaged or released by rotating the bayonet parts 4, 6 relative to each other, for example, by manual driving of the preferably rotationally fixed second scaffold tube 3 while the coupling assembly 1 is rotationally fixedly coupled with the first scaffold tube 2, which in turn can be rotationally fixedly included in the scaffold construction 20. When the axial locking is released, the bayonet parts 4, 6 can be moved axially into or out of each other to bring the scaffold tubes 2, 3 together for mutual coupling or to separate them.

[0060] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the bayonet connection 5 is a clamping bayonet connection. This allows the second scaffold tube 3 to be relatively rigidly coupled with the coupling assembly 1, which can promote the stability of the coupling between the scaffold tubes 2, 3 and thereby the stability of the scaffold construction 20.

[0061] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, at least one of the engagement surfaces 13, 14 for clamping the bayonet connection 5 has a chamfer relative to the said substantially transversely extending plane. The chamfer is preferably configured to increase or decrease the clamping by mutual rotation of the bayonet parts 4, 6 about their common axis C4, C6. The chamfer, for example, exhibits a gradual axial progression in the circumferential direction, particularly so that engagement surfaces 13, 14 are pressed more or less against each other depending on their mutual circumferential position. This allows the axial locking and clamping to be applied with a same continuous rotational action, and the clamping and axial locking can be released with a same continuous rotational action in the opposite direction. Ease of use and effectiveness of the coupling assembly can thus be further enhanced.

[0062] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the clamping mechanism 12 comprises a wedge 15 that is movable along the first scaffold tube 2 accommodated in the clamping space 11 to selectively set or release the clamping of the first scaffold tube 2. The use of such a wedge in a clamping mechanism is known as such from coupling assemblies without bayonet parts and is in that sense considered easy and effective by many scaffold builders. By now applying a clamping mechanism with a wedge 15 in combination with a bayonet part 4, a coupling assembly 1 can be obtained that is particularly versatile and yet relatively simple and intuitive to use. Compared to known coupling assemblies, significant additional coupling possibilities are realized, as explained elsewhere herein. As an alternative to a wedge, a threaded mechanism such as a nut engaging with a bolt can be used, which is also known as such for coupling assemblies without a bayonet connection and is also considered easy and effective by many scaffold builders.

[0063] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the clamping assembly 7 comprises a coupling part 16 that is movably connected to one of the base part 8 and a second end 17 of the lid part 9 opposite the first end 10, and that is clampingly couplable with the other of the base part 8 and the second end 17 of the lid part 9, at least when the first scaffold tube 2 is in the clamping space 11. In embodiments, including in the examples of Figs. 1-3, 5, and 7-10, the coupling part 16 is rotatably connected with the base part 8 about a rotation axis R16-1 that extends, for example, parallel to the axial direction C2 of the coupled first scaffold tube 2. In alternative embodiments, including in the example of Figs. 13-14, the coupling part 16 is rotatably connected with the lid part 9 about a rotation axis R16-3 that extends, for example, parallel to the axial direction C2 of the coupled first scaffold tube 2.

[0064] Because the coupling part 16 can bridge a distance between the base part 8 and the lid part 9, the base part can be made relatively compact and lightweight, so that the coupling assembly 1 as a whole can also be relatively lightweight. The base part 8 can, for example, be manufactured as a forged piece. In the case of using a bolt with a nut in the clamping mechanism as mentioned above as an option, the bolt can form the coupling part. Although the use of a coupling part as described herein offers advantages, the coupling assembly can also be implemented without such a coupling part, wherein the base part and the lid part are then, for example, configured such that the second end of the lid part in the first lid part position can reach the base part to be held there using the clamping mechanism. As an alternative to the movable coupling to the optional coupling part described herein, the wedge can then, for example, be movably coupled to the second end of the lid part.

[0065] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the wedge 15 as part of the clamping mechanism 12 is reversibly configured to be movable along the first scaffold tube 2 selectively in a first direction D 1 or an opposite second direction D2 for applying the clamping. This increases the usability of the coupling assembly 1, particularly in parts of scaffold constructions where hammering in the wedge 15 from either side is hindered, for example, by the presence of another scaffold component.

[0066] In the figures, the wedge 15 is always positioned such that the clamping can be applied by moving the wedge 15 in the indicated first direction DI, for example by hammering, wherein the clamping can be released by moving the wedge 15 in the opposite second direction D2.

[0067] In embodiments, including the example of Figs. 1-3, 5, 7-8, and 13- 14, the wedge 15 can be rotated relative to the optional coupling part 16 explained elsewhere herein about a rotation axis R15 to reverse the wedge 15. The rotatability of the wedge 15 relative to the coupling part 16 is, for example, made possible by a slot 25 in the wedge 15, through which a part of the coupling part 16 extends non-rotationally fixed. This allows the clamping to be applied as desired, after a reversing rotation of the wedge 15, by moving the wedge 15 in the opposite direction D2, wherein the clamping can be released by moving the wedge 15 in the first direction DI.

[0068] In alternative embodiments, including the example of Fig. 9-10, the coupling part 16 is rotatably coupled with the base part 8 about a rotation axis R16-2 that substantially coincides with a longitudinal axis of the coupling part, particularly in addition to the rotatability about a rotation axis R16-1 described elsewhere herein. The coupling between the coupling part and the base part 8 is then, for example, implemented as a ball joint. This allows the wedge 15 to be substantially non-rotatably connected with the coupling part 16, for example, allowing the wedge 15 to be made relatively compact and lightweight, particularly without the slot 25 mentioned elsewhere herein. The rotatability of the wedge 15 relative to the base part 8 for the mentioned directional choice DI or D2 can thus be realized by the rotatability of the coupling part 16 relative to the base part 8 about a rotation axis R16-2.

[0069] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, at least one of the base part 8 and the lid part 9 is formed with a groove 21 that extends from the clamping space 11 radially outward and circumferentially and is configured to receive a protrusion 22 formed on an outer side of the first scaffold tube 2 to inhibit mutual axial displacement of the coupling assembly 1 and the first scaffold tube 2, particularly without the need for the first scaffold tube 2 to be clamped in the clamping space 11. A possible example of protrusions 22 is shown in Fig. 11A-B and Fig. 15B. Such protrusions 22 can, for example, be arranged at regular intervals along the length of the scaffold tube 2 to allow the scaffold tube 2 to engage with the groove 21 at a corresponding position as desired. It should be clear that the groove 21 does not obstruct the possible use of scaffold tubes without such a protrusion, for example, as shown in Fig. 12A-B. It is also not excluded that a coupling assembly 1 with such a groove 21 is coupled to a first scaffold tube 2 provided with such protrusions 22 at an axial position where the first scaffold tube 2 is free of such protrusions.

[0070] In embodiments, including in the shown examples, the clamping assembly 7 comprises a stop 23 configured to block rotation of the lid part 9 relative to the base part 8 from the first lid part position beyond the second lid part position. The stop 23 is provided in the shown examples on the lid part 9 at the first end 10 thereof to engage with the base part 8, but can alternatively or additionally be provided on the base part 8 to engage with the lid part 9. The stop 23 can thus determine a maximum angle difference between the first lid part position and the second lid part position, for example of about 90 degrees. The maximum angle difference thus determined can facilitate the use of the coupling assembly 1 by preventing the lid part 9 from being opened unnecessarily far, and can, in some use situations, for example, allow the first scaffold tube 2 to rest on the lid part 9 in the second lid part position.

[0071] In embodiments, including in the example of Fig. 1-3, the lid part 9 at the first end 10 thereof is provided with a driving lug 24 configured to be engaged by the first scaffold tube 2 to move the lid part 9 from the second lid part position towards the first lid part position, particularly by moving the first scaffold tube 2 towards the base part 8 after placement against the lid part 9.

[0072] Although the invention is explained herein with reference to examples of embodiments and drawings, these do not limit the scope of the invention as determined by the claims. Within said scope, many variations, combinations, and extensions are possible, as will be clear to the skilled person with the benefit of the present disclosure. The bayonet parts described herein can, for example, as such be configured as shown in the manual of the SCALOK system referred to in the above summary. Alternatively or additionally, one or more of the bayonet parts may be configured differently, for example, according to one or more other known bayonet parts for scaffold tubes. The clamping assembly can, for example, as such be configured according to a clamping assembly of a known coupling assembly for coupling scaffold tubes at an angle, which known clamping assemblies typically do not have a combination of a rotatable coupling part and wedge as described herein as an advantageous option.

[0073] LIST OF REFERENCE SIGNS

[0074] 1. Coupling assembly

[0075] 2. First scaffold tube

[0076] 3. Second scaffold tube

[0077] 4. First bayonet part

[0078] 5. Bayonet connection

[0079] 6. Second bayonet part

[0080] 7. Clamping assembly

[0081] 8. Base part

[0082] 9. Lid part

[0083] 10. First end of lid part

[0084] 11. Clamping sp ace

[0085] 12. Clamping mechanism

[0086] 13. First engagement surface

[0087] 14. Second engagement surface

[0088] 15. Wedge

[0089] 16. Coupling part

[0090] 17. Second end of lid part

[0091] 18. Coupling system

[0092] 19. Scaffold system 20. Scaffold construction

[0093] 21. Groove

[0094] 22. Protrusion of scaffold tube

[0095] 23. Stop of lid part

[0096] 24. Driving lug of lid part

[0097] 25. Slot in wedge

[0098] 26. Transverse ledger

[0099] 27. Floor part

[0100] 28. Standard

[0101] C2. Axial direction of first scaffold tube

[0102] C3. Axial direction of second scaffold tube

[0103] C4. Axial direction of first bayonet part

[0104] C6. Axial direction of second bayonet part

[0105] DI. First direction along first scaffold tube

[0106] D2. Second direction along first scaffold tube

[0107] Fl. First scaffold floor level

[0108] F2. Second scaffold floor level

[0109] R9. Rotation axis of lid part relative to base part

[0110] R15. Rotation axis of wedge relative to coupling part

[0111] R16-1. First rotation axis of coupling part relative to base part

[0112] R16-2. Second rotation axis of coupling part relative to base part

[0113] R16-3. Rotation axis of coupling part relative to lid part

Claims

CLAIMS1. Coupling assembly (1) for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube (2) and a second scaffold tube (3), comprising: a first bayonet part (4) configured to engage in a bayonet connection (5) with a second bayonet part (6) that is connectable or connected to the second scaffold tube (3) at an end of the second scaffold tube (3); and a clamping assembly (7) comprising:- a base part (8) connected to the first bayonet part (4);- a lid part (9) that is hingedly connected at a first end (10) thereof to the base part (8) to be rotatable between a first lid part position and a more opened second lid part position, wherein in the first lid part position the first scaffold tube (2) can be clamped in a clamping space (11) between the base part (8) and the lid part (9), and wherein in the second lid part position the first scaffold tube (2) is movable into and out of the clamping space (11); and- a clamping mechanism (12) configured to selectively limit rotation of the lid part (9) relative to the base part (8) towards the second lid part position to thereby clamp the first scaffold tube (2) in the clamping space (11).

2. Coupling assembly according to claim 1, wherein the clamping assembly (7) determines an axial direction (C2) of the clamped first scaffold tube (2), wherein an axial direction (C4) of the first bayonet part (4) intersects with the axial direction (C2) of the clamped first scaffold tube (2) determined by the clamping assembly (7).

3. Coupling assembly according to claim 2, wherein the axial direction (C4) of the first bayonet part (4) extends radially relative to the axial direction (C2) of the clamped first scaffold tube (2) determined by the clamping assembly (7).

4. Coupling assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first bayonet part (4) is a male bayonet part, and the second bayonet part (6) is a female bayonet part.

5. Coupling assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first bayonet part (4) for engaging in the bayonet connection (5) comprises one or more first engagement surfaces (13) configured for engagement with one or more second engagement surfaces (14) of the second bayonet part (6), wherein the first and second engagement surfaces (13, 14) extend radially relative to respective axes (C4, C6) of the bayonet parts (4, 6).

6. Coupling assembly according to claim 5, wherein the engagement between the mutual engagement surfaces (13, 14) can be achieved by rotating the bayonet parts (2, 4) relative to each other about a common bayonet axis (C4, C6) after one (4) of the first bayonet part (4) and the second bayonet part (6) is inserted into the other (6) of the first bayonet part (4) and the second bayonet part (6) in an insertion direction that coincides with the common bayonet axis (C4, C6), wherein the common bayonet axis (C4, C6) corresponds to coinciding respective axial directions (C4, C6) of both bayonet parts (4, 6).

7. Coupling assembly according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the mutual engagement surfaces (13, 14) extend substantially in a respective plane that extends substantially transversely relative to a respective axis (C4, C6) of the respective bayonet part (4, 6).

8. Coupling assembly according to claims 6 and 7, wherein the mutual engagement surfaces (13, 14) are circumferentially interrupted relative to the axis (C4, C6) of the respective bayonet part (4, 6) to allow themutual engagement surfaces (13, 14) to axially pass each other upon the inserting of the one bayonet part (4) into the other bayonet part (6).

9. Coupling assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bayonet connection (5) is a clamping bayonet connection.

10. Coupling assembly according to claims 7 and 9, wherein, for clamping the bayonet connection (5), at least one of the engagement surfaces (13, 14) has a chamfer relative to the said substantially transversely extending plane.

11. Coupling assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping mechanism (12) comprises a wedge (15) that is movable along the first scaffold tube (2) accommodated in the clamping space (11) to selectively set or release the clamping of the first scaffold tube (2).

12. Coupling assembly according to claim 11, wherein the wedge (15) as part of the clamping mechanism (12) is reversibly configured to be movable along the first scaffold tube (2) selectively in a first direction (D 1) or an opposite second direction (D2) for applying the clamping.

13. Coupling assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the clamping assembly (7) comprises a coupling part (16) that is movably connected to one of the base part (8) and a second end (17) of the lid part (9) opposite the first end (10), and that is clampingly couplable with the other of the base part (8) and the second end (17) of the lid part (9), at least when the first scaffold tube (2) is in the clamping space (11).

14. Coupling assembly according to any of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of the base part (8) and the lid part (9) is formed with a groove (21) that extends from the clamping space (11) radially outward and circumferentially and is configured to receive a protrusion (22) formed on an outer side of the first scaffold tube (2) to inhibit mutual axial displacement of the coupling assembly (1) and the first scaffold tube (2), particularly without the need for the first scaffold tube (2) to be clamped in the clamping space (11).

15. Coupling system (18) for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube (2) and a second scaffold tube (3), comprising the coupling assembly (1) according to any of the preceding claims and the second bayonet part (6),16. Coupling system according to claim 15, wherein the second bayonet part (6) is fixedly connected to the end of the second scaffold tube (3), wherein an axial direction (C6) of the second bayonet part (6) preferably coincides with an axial direction (C3) of the second scaffold tube (3).

17. Scaffold system (19) comprising the coupling system (18) according to claim 15 or 16 and the first scaffold tube (2).

18. Scaffold system according to claim 17, further comprising the second scaffold tube (3).

19. Scaffold construction (20) comprising the scaffold system (19) according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the first scaffold tube (2) is clamped in the clamping space (11) using the clamping mechanism (12).

20. Scaffold construction according to claim 19, wherein the first scaffold tube (2) is included as a standard or ledger in the scaffold construction (20).

21. Scaffold construction according to claim 19 or 20, wherein the first bayonet part (4) and the second bayonet part (6) form the bayonet connection (5) with each other.

22. Scaffold construction according to any of claims 19 - 21, wherein the first scaffold tube (2) and the second scaffold tube (3): are both included as ledgers in the scaffold construction (20); and / or both extend substantially horizontally; and / or together define a substantially horizontal plane; and / or support one or more floor parts (27), for example as longitudinal ledgers in cooperation with transverse ledgers (26) coupled to the first scaffold tube (2) and / or the second scaffold tube (3).

23. Method for forming a scaffold construction (20) according to any of claims 19 - 22, comprising: providing the scaffold system (19) according to claim 17 or 18; and clamping the first scaffold tube (2) in the clamping space (11) using the clamping mechanism (12).

24. Method according to claim 23, further comprising forming the bayonet connection (5) between the first bayonet part (4) and the second bayonet part (6).

25. Use of a coupling assembly (1) according to any of claims 1 - 14 for mutually coupling a first scaffold tube (2) and a second scaffold tube (3).

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