Modular type suspended structure to safely carry out work on building constructions and method for making it

Abstract

Modular type suspended structure (10) to safely carry out work on a building construction, comprising a plurality of metal beams (11), support elements (12) configured to be at least temporarily attached or connected to the building construction to support, or sustain, each beam (11), and rest elements (13) being configured to be rested on or attached to the beams (11) in order to create a horizontal walkable surface on which the personnel assigned to the work can walk safely.

Description

[0001] “MODULAR TYPE SUSPENDED STRUCTURE TO SAFELY CARRY OUT WORK ON BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS AND METHOD FOR MAKING IT”

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The scope of the present invention is that of building constructions in general, defined in the present description and in the attached claims in the broadest sense of the term and including, without any limitations to generality, bridges, viaducts, overpasses, tunnels, underpasses, buildings and similar constructions, of any size whatsoever, even the largest in existence today. In particular, the present invention concerns both a suspended structure, of a modular and very versatile type, that is, expandable at will so that it can be adapted to the sizes and type of any building construction whatsoever, to safely carry out any type of work, for example maintenance, construction, or completion and installation of systems and utilities, on the building and in particular on its elevated parts, such as ceilings, and also a method for making the aforementioned structure. In the present description and in the attached claims, the term elevated part is understood as any surface, even irregular, distant from the ground or from a floor of any building, or of beams of bridges, viaducts, overpasses, tunnels, underpasses, or similar building constructions.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In order to cany7out maintenance work, or work to complete and set up systems and utilities, on or in correspondence with the elevated parts, understood in the broadest sense, of building constructions as defined above, especially those of very' large sizes, even of several thousand square meters, it is not always possible or economically viable to set up scaffolding that starts from the ground and reaches the proximity of the ceilings, or other elevated parts, on which intervention is desired or necessary; some examples are the beams or decks of viaducts, which are sometimes even a few hundred meters above the ground, or bridges with spans of between a few tens of meters to a few kilometers long, or road or motorway structures such as tunnels, where it is necessary to intervene on their elevated parts, possibly without interrupting, not even temporarily, the circulation of traffic, sometimes even for long periods of time, measurable in months or years. In these cases, it is known to create suspended structures resting on, or coupled to, the same building construction on which any given maintenance is to be carried out or completed, even with the installation of systems and utilities, for example in the soffit part or in proximity to the ceiling.

[0006] A few7years ago, the same inventor of the present invention created a provisional suspended structure, which comprised a first left reticular beam associated w7ith a first left monorail guide by means of a lower attachment support located at the end of the left monorail guide; a second right reticular beam associated with a second right monorail guide by means of a lower attachment support located at the end of the right monorail guide; a first walkable surface interposed between the first left reticular beam and the second right reticular beam; wherein each reticular beam was attached to the building construction to be serviced by means of generic chain type means; another left reticular beam associated at the lower part with the corresponding first left reticular beam and at the upper part with the left monorail guide by means of a lower attachment support; another right reticular beam associated at the low7er part with the corresponding second right reticular beam and at the upper part with the right monorail guide by means of a lower attachment support; and another walkable surface interposed between the other left reticular beam and the other right reticular beam.

[0007] The known provisional suspended structure as above, while representing, at the time of its implementation, an important innovation in the sector of building constructions to cany7out maintenance work on them, has highlighted some critical issues and disadvantages, which the inventor has resolved by embodying the present suspended structure and perfecting the corresponding method for making it, as well as allowing its safe use, in compliance with all current regulations of the sector.

[0008] To do this, it was necessary7first of all to solve the technical problem of providing a suspended structure in which its components were not only robust, to support the loads per square meter required by current regulations, but at the same time sufficiently light and not bulky, allowing the workers in charge of assembling it to move them easily, without having to make excessive effort, not putting their health at risk and always operating safely, even when, during the assembly of the suspended structure, they have to temporarily and partly lean out from the structure in order to carry out any work on its lower part, such as the coupling and anchoring of the mandatory' safety net for example.

[0009] In particular, one purpose of the present invention is to provide a suspended structure and to perfect a method for making it, which allow to carry out work on building constructions safely, in particular on the elevated parts of the latter, using robust but also easily handled components.

[0010] Another purpose of the present invention is to allow a suspended structure to be of the modular and assemblable type, so that it can be expanded at will, always working safely, depending on the requirements and the type of building construction on which to intervene.

[0011] Another purpose of the present invention is to provide a suspended structure that at a basic level, that is, without its accessories, has an average weight per square meter of walkable surface that is much lower than those of similar suspended structures of the prior art.

[0012] The Applicant has devised, tested and embodied the present invention to overcome the shortcomings of the state of the art and to obtain these and other purposes and advantages.

[0013] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The present invention is set forth and characterized in the independent claims. The dependent claims describe other characteristics of the present invention or variants to the main inventive idea.

[0015] In accordance with the above purposes and to resolve the technical problem described above in a new and original way, also achieving considerable advantages compared to the state of the prior art, a modular type suspended structure according to the present invention, to safely carry out work on a building construction, comprises:

[0016] - at least two metal beams, each having its own longitudinal axis and configured to be disposed horizontally and parallel to each other underneath, or to the side of, an elevated part of the building construction, wherein each of the beams comprises both two longitudinal elements parallel to the longitudinal axis and disposed on a preferably median plane passing through the latter and which, during use, is vertical, and also one or more intermediate elements interposed between the two longitudinal elements, attached thereto and lying on the abovementioned plane; - support means comprising a plurality of support elements and configured to be at least temporarily attached, or connected, to the building construction to support, or sustain, each of the beams, wherein the support elements, during use, are substantially vertical and are spaced apart from each other by a distance, or center distance, which is chosen as a function of the load that each of the beams has to support; and

[0017] - rest means configured to be rested on, or attached to, the beams in order to create a horizontal walkable surface on which the personnel assigned to the work can walk safely.

[0018] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, each of the beams has a height comprised between 200 mm and 300 mm, preferably of 250 mm, and the two longitudinal elements and the one or more intermediate elements of each of the beams have sizes such as to allow each of the beams to support a load of up to 9.0 kN / m, as a function of the value of the center distance.

[0019] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the center distance is preferably a multiple of 0.5 m and is even more preferably 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 3.0 m, 4.0 m, 5.0 m, or 6.0 m and, advantageously, when the center distance is 1.0 m, the load is 9.0 kN / m; when the center distance is 1.5 m, the load is 6.0 kN / m; when the center distance is 2.0 m, the load is 4.5 kN / m; when the center distance is 2.5 m, the load is 3.6 kN / m; when the center distance is 3.0 m, the load is 3.0 kN / m; when the center distance is 4.0 m, the load is 2.2 kN / m; when the center distance is 5.0 m, the load is 1.8 kN / m; and when the center distance is 6.0 m, the load is 1.4 kN / m.

[0020] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, each of the beams is made of aluminum, has a length of specific sizes which are a multiple of 0.5 m and are preferably 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 3.0 m, 4.0 m, 5.0 m, 6.0 m; moreover, at least a first longitudinal element of the two longitudinal elements comprises, or consists of, a tubular metal element of a standard type for the scaffolding sector and preferably has an external diameter of 48.3 mm.

[0021] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, at least a second longitudinal element of the two longitudinal elements comprises, or consists of, a metal section bar having a substantially U-shaped cross-section, with the two lateral flanks substantially parallel to the abovementioned plane. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, each of the two longitudinal elements comprises, or consists of, a tubular metal element of a standard type for the scaffolding sector and preferably has an external diameter of 48.3 mm.

[0022] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, when the height of each of the beams is 250 mm and (a) the second longitudinal element has a substantially U-shaped cross-section, the weight of each of the beams, as a function of its length, is, respectively, 44.7 N when the latter is 1.0 m; 67.5 N when its length is 1.5 m; 90.4 N when its length is 2.0 m; 129.5 N when its length is 3.0 m; 185.1 N when its length is 4.0 m; 220.2 N when its length is 5.0 m; and 265.9 N when its length is 6.0 m, or (b) the two longitudinal elements instead each comprise a tubular element, the weight of each of the beams is, respectively, 38.6 N when its length is 1.0 m; 60.2 N when its length is 1.5 m; 81.9 N when its length is 2.0 m; 1 18.3 N when its length is 3.0 m; 161.6 N when its length is 4.0 m; 204.8 N when its length is 5.0 m; and 248.2 N when its length is 6.0 m.

[0023] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, each of the beams is of the reversible type and can be used either with the second longitudinal element positioned at the top to cooperate with the rest means, or with the second longitudinal element positioned at the bottom and the first longitudinal element positioned at the top so that the latter can cooperate with the rest means.

[0024] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, overall, without its accessories, the suspended structure has a very low average weight per square meter of walkable surface, comprised between about 180 N / m2and about 220 N / m2.

[0025] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, each of the beams is configured to be coupled to another of the beams, either in a longitudinal direction, with their longitudinal axes in continuity7, or laterally paired, with the planes on which their longitudinal elements lie parallel to each other, or one on top of the other with the planes coplanar, preferably vertical.

[0026] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the suspended structure also comprises connection means configured to join two of the beams together in a longitudinal direction, with their longitudinal axes in continuity; moreover, the connection means comprise two metal plates configured to be selectively joined together and on each of which, on opposite sides, there are attached two connection sleeves, or half-sleeves configured to be coupled to the ends of the longitudinal elements.

[0027] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the suspended structure also comprises one or more spacer bars, configured to be coupled to two of the beams parallel to each other and spaced apart, wherein each of the spacer bars is provided at its ends with two joints configured to be connected preferably one to a first of the longitudinal elements of one of the beams and the other to one of the intermediate elements of the other of the beams to be connected.

[0028] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the rest means comprise one or more metal panels having a substantially rectangular rest surface, with a larger side having a length that is a multiple of 0.5 m and is preferably 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 2.5 m, 3.0 m, and a smaller side having a length that is preferably 0.33 m or 0.5 m, the metal panels being class 3, 4, 5, or 6, capable of supporting, respectively, loads of 2.0 kN / m2; 3.0 kN / m2; 4.5 kN / m2and 6.0 kN / m2.

[0029] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, each of the support elements comprises a chain, which in turn comprises an upper element and a lower element which can be connected to each other, to obtain a standard working height between the rest means and the elevated part, normally comprised between 1.8 m and 2.0 m, exceptionally between 0.5 m and 2.0 m, and possibly also an intermediate element configured to be interposed between the upper element and the lower element and coupled to them when the standard working height is to exceed 2.0 m.

[0030] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, one or more of the chains is associated with an electric hoist which can also be commanded in wireless mode.

[0031] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, each of the support elements comprises a sustaining device configured to be removably coupled to each of the beams, wherein the sustaining device comprises a pair of selectively openable first jaw-shaped elements and first safety' means configured to prevent the first jaw-shaped elements from opening accidentally.

[0032] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the support elements comprise a coupling device configured to be removably coupled to the elevated part, wherein the coupling device comprises at least one support plate provided with two slots in which two corresponding pins of two second jaw-shaped elements are able to slide and be positioned, which can be selectively inclined with respect to the pins to selectively assume an open position or a closed position and in which second safety means are provided to prevent the second jaw-shaped elements from opening accidentally.

[0033] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the suspended structure also comprises a safety net removably attached underneath the beams.

[0034] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the suspended structure also comprises a sheet of waterproof material configured to be placed underneath the beams and possibly underneath a safety net, and outside a possible parapet, with the function of simplifying and optimizing the operation of collecting water, or other liquids, and materials deriving from the work on the building construction, thus offering total containment and preventing leaks into the environment.

[0035] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a multi-story structure comprises two or more of the suspended structures as disclosed above, exposed and coupled to each other, having their rest means disposed on different horizontal planes, in which tensioning members, similar to the support means, are coupled to the beams of an upper suspended structure in order to sustain the beams of a lower suspended structure.

[0036] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a method for making a modular type suspended structure to safely cany7out work on a building construction comprises at least the following steps:

[0037] - preparing at least two metal beams, each having its own longitudinal axis, and disposing them horizontally and parallel to each other underneath, or to the side of, an elevated part of the building construction, wherein each of the beams comprises both two longitudinal elements parallel to the longitudinal axis and disposed on a preferably median plane passing through the latter and which, during use, is vertical, and also one or more intermediate elements interposed between the two longitudinal elements, attached thereto and lying on the abovementioned plane;

[0038] - preparing support means comprising a plurality’ of support elements to be at least temporarily attached or connected to the building construction in order to support, or sustain, each of the beams, wherein the support elements are, during use, substantially vertical and are spaced apart from each other by a distance, or center distance, which is chosen as a function of the load that each of the beams has to support; and

[0039] - preparing rest means and resting them on, or attaching them to, the beams to create a horizontal walkable surface on which the personnel assigned to the work can walk safely. Advantageously, each of the beams has a height smaller than the prior art and comprised between 200 mm and 300 mm, preferably of 250 mm, and the two longitudinal elements and the one or more intermediate elements of each of the beams have sizes such as to allow each of the beams to support a load of up to 9.0 kN / m, as a function of the value of the center distance.

[0040] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the method also comprises a lifting step in which one of the beams to be installed is lifted with a suspended guide coupled to the elevated part, or one or two of the beams to be installed are lifted with two suspended guides and the beams to be installed are then positioned in association with at least one of the beams already installed.

[0041] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the method also comprises a connection step in which a new beam is connected to one of the beams already installed using connection means, chosen as a function of the type of the beams used and their layout.

[0042] DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] These and other aspects, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of some embodiments, given as a non-restrictive example with reference to the attached drawings wherein:

[0044] - fig. 1 is a perspective view of a suspended structure according to the present invention, shown schematically during a construction step;

[0045] - fig. 2 is a first image representing a suspended structure according to the present invention installed underneath the elevated part of a building construction, in this specific case a viaduct;

[0046] - fig. 3 is a second image representing a suspended structure according to the present invention installed underneath the elevated part of another viaduct;

[0047] - fig. 4 is a schematic view of a use of a suspended structure according to the present invention;

[0048] - fig. 5 is a lateral view of a beam that is part of the suspended structure of fig. 1 in a first embodiment;

[0049] - fig. 6 is an enlarged detail of fig. 5;

[0050] - fig. 7 is a top view in an enlarged scale of a detail of the beam of fig. 5;

[0051] - fig. 8 is a front view of fig. 5 in an enlarged scale;

[0052] - fig. 9 is a front view similar to that of fig. 8, but with the beam of fig. 5 in a position of use rotated by 180°;

[0053] - fig. 10 is a front view of a beam that is part of the suspended structure of fig. 1 in a second embodiment;

[0054] - fig. 11 is a perspective and exploded view of means of connection between two beams of fig. 5, in accordance with a first embodiment;

[0055] - fig. 12 is a perspective and exploded view of means of connection between two beams of fig. 5, in accordance with a second embodiment;

[0056] - fig. 13 is a perspective and exploded view of means of connection between two beams of fig. 5, in accordance with a third embodiment;

[0057] - fig. 14 is a perspective and exploded view of means of connection between two beams of fig. 10, in accordance with a fourth embodiment;

[0058] - fig. 15 is a perspective view of tw7o beams of the suspended structure of fig. 1 joined together in a mode in which they are side-by-side;

[0059] - fig. 16 is a front view of the two beams of fig. 15 joined together;

[0060] - fig. 17 is a perspective view7of a device for joining the two beams of fig. 15, in accordance with a first embodiment;

[0061] - fig. 18 is a perspective view of tw7o beams of the suspended structure of fig. 1 joined together in a mode in which they are one on top of the other;

[0062] - fig. 19 is a front view of the two beams of fig. 18 joined together;

[0063] - fig. 20 is a perspective view of a device for joining the two beams of fig. 18, in accordance with a second embodiment;

[0064] - fig. 21 is a perspective and schematic view of a part of the suspended structure of fig. 1 in an intermediate step of installation;

[0065] - fig. 22 is a perspective and schematic view of a part of the suspended structure of fig. 1 in which some spacer bars are highlighted, which connect two beams of fig. 5 parallel to each other; - fig. 23 is a perspective view of an upper element of a chain of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0066] - fig. 24 is a perspective view of a lower element of a chain of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0067] - fig. 25 is a perspective view of an intermediate element of a chain of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0068] - fig. 26 is a perspective view of a chain of the suspended structure of fig. 1 , with which an electric lifting hoist is associated;

[0069] - fig. 27 is a schematic view of two chains of the suspended structure of fig. 1, with different heights between the beams of the latter and the elevated part of a building construction overhead;

[0070] - fig. 28 is a perspective view of a sustaining device of a beam of the suspended structure of fig. 1 , in a closed position;

[0071] - fig. 29 is a front view of the sustaining device of fig. 28;

[0072] - fig. 30 is a lateral view of the sustaining device of fig. 28;

[0073] - fig. 31 is an enlarged detail of fig. 30;

[0074] - fig. 32 is a front view of the sustaining device of fig. 28, but in an open position;

[0075] - fig. 33 is a perspective view of the sustaining device of fig. 28, coupled to a beam of fig. 5;

[0076] - fig. 34 is a perspective view of a coupling device for coupling the suspended structure of fig. 1 to the elevated part of a building construction, shown in an operating, or closed, position;

[0077] - fig. 35 is a front view of the coupling device of fig. 34;

[0078] - fig. 36 is a front view of the coupling device of fig. 34, but in an open position;

[0079] - fig. 37 is a perspective view of a deck, which is part of the suspended structure of fig. 1, in a first embodiment;

[0080] - fig. 38 is a perspective view of a deck, which is part of the suspended structure of fig. 1, in a second embodiment;

[0081] - fig. 39 is a perspective and schematic view of a clamping element of the deck of fig. 37;

[0082] - fig. 40 is a perspective and schematic view of a support device of a parapet of the suspended structure of fig. 1 , in accordance with a first embodiment;

[0083] - fig. 41 is a perspective and schematic view of a support device of a parapet of the suspended structure of fig. 1 , in accordance with a second embodiment;

[0084] - fig. 42 is a perspective and schematic view of a safety net of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0085] - fig. 43 is a perspective and schematic view of a lower sheet of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0086] - fig. 44 is a perspective view of a deck of the suspended structure of fig. 1 in which a through aperture is made;

[0087] - fig. 45 is a perspective view of a ladder tower, or ground scaffolding, to begin to create the suspended structure of fig. 1, in accordance with a first embodiment;

[0088] - fig. 46 is a perspective view of a suspended platform to begin to create the suspended structure of fig. 1 , in accordance with a second embodiment;

[0089] - fig. 47 is a perspective view of a suspended platform to begin to create the suspended structure of fig. 1 , in accordance with a third embodiment;

[0090] - fig. 48 is a perspective view of a suspended guide used to create the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0091] - fig. 49 is a cross-section of the suspended guide of fig. 48;

[0092] - fig. 50 is a perspective and schematic view of a step of longitudinal advance of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0093] - fig. 51 is a perspective and schematic view of another step of longitudinal advance of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0094] - fig. 52 is a perspective and schematic view of another step of longitudinal advance of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0095] - fig. 53 is a perspective and schematic view of a step of transverse advance of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0096] - fig. 54 is a perspective and schematic view of another step of transverse advance of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0097] - fig. 55 is a perspective and schematic view of another step of transverse advance of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0098] - fig. 56 is a perspective and schematic view of another step of transverse advance of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0099] - fig. 57 is a perspective and schematic view of a different step of transverse advance of the suspended structure of fig. 1 ;

[0100] - fig. 58 is a perspective and schematic view of a multi-story suspended structure created using a plurality of suspended structures according to the invention, disposed on different horizontal planes around a very' high pylon.

[0101] We must clarify that the phraseology and terminology used in the present description, as well as the figures in the attached drawings also in relation as to how described, have the sole function of better illustrating and explaining the present invention, their purpose being to provide a non-limiting example of the invention itself, since the scope of protection is defined by the claims. We must also clarify that the drawings are not to scale.

[0102] To facilitate comprehension, the same reference numbers have been used, where possible, to identify identical common elements in the drawings.

[0103] DESCRIPTION OF SOME EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0104] With reference to figs. 1, 2 and 3, a modular type suspended structure 10 according to the present invention to safely carry7out work on a building construction 200, as defined above, which in the example shown here is a viaduct, and in particular on an elevated part 201 thereof, essentially comprises:

[0105] - one or more pairs of beams 11 (figs. 1 and from 5 to 10), preferably made of metal and even more preferably aluminum, or alloys thereof, for example in aluminum alloy EN AW 6082 T6 with high mechanical characteristics, or steel, and which, during use, are substantially horizontal and parallel to each other;

[0106] - support means 12 (figs. 1 and from 21 to 33), with the function of tie rods and configured to be at least temporarily attached, or connected, to the elevated part 201 of the building construction 200, for example a vault, a ceiling, or a structural beam, in order to support, or sustain, each beam 11 ; and

[0107] - rest, or walkable, means 13 (figs. 1, 1 1 and 12), comprising, or consisting of, a plurality7of panels, or decks, 14, configured to be coupled, or connected, preferably in an easily removable manner, to the beams 11 in order to create a horizontal walkable surface on which the personnel assigned to the work can walk safely.

[0108] For example, the support means 12 comprise a plurality7of support elements 29 (figs. 1 and 5), which during use are substantially vertical and are spaced apart from each other by a distance, or center distance I, which is chosen as a function of the load that each beam 11 has to support, as is described in detail below.

[0109] In addition, the suspended structure 10 comprises some accessories 15 required above all to guarantee the safety of the people who use it and to prevent environmental pollution during work on the building construction 200 to which the same suspended structure 10 is connected.

[0110] The beams 11, the support means 12, the decks 14 and the accessories 15 are described in detail below.

[0111] THE BEAMS

[0112] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, each beam 11 (figs, from 5 to 10) has its own longitudinal axis X and comprises both two stringers, or longitudinal elements 16, 17, parallel to the latter and disposed on a preferably median plane P (figs, from 8 to 10) passing through the longitudinal axis X and which during use is vertical, and also a plurality of uprights, or intermediate elements 18, interposed between the two longitudinal elements 16, 17, attached to the latter, for example by welding, and lying on the plane P. The number of intermediate elements 18 varies, preferably from 3 to 21, as a function of the length LU (fig. 5) of the beam 11, as explained in detail below.

[0113] In accordance with a first embodiment of the present invention, the first longitudinal element 16 (figs, from 5 to 9), or lower stringer, comprises, or consists of, a tubular metal element of a standard type for the scaffolding sector, and has an external diameter D (fig. 8) which can preferably be 48.3 mm, whereas the second longitudinal element 17, or upper stringer, comprises, or consists of, a metal section bar having a substantially U-shaped cross-section, with the two lateral flanks substantially parallel to the plane P and defining a longitudinal cavity 19 between them which extends for the entire length LU of the beam 1 1. The width LA of the longitudinal cavity 19 is advantageously about 40 mm.

[0114] In addition, the first longitudinal element 16 (figs. 6 and 8), near each of its two ends, is provided with two transverse through holes 20, one parallel to the plane P and one transverse to it.

[0115] There is a longitudinal slot 21 on the bottom of the longitudinal cavity 19 of the second longitudinal element 17, near each of its two ends (figs. 6 and 7). The function of the transverse through holes 20 and of the slots 21 is explained further below.

[0116] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the intermediate elements 18 (figs. 5 and 6), instead of iron rods disposed in a lattice pattern, as in the state of the prior art, comprise both a plurality of relatively short tubular metal elements 22, for example of about 150 mm, equidistant from each other and perpendicular to the longitudinal elements 16, 17, and also one or more metal plates 23 interspersed with the tubular elements 22. The tubular elements 22 and the plates 23 are welded to the longitudinal elements 16, 17 so as to be disposed on the plane P (figs. 8 and 9).

[0117] Advantageously, the tubular elements 22 have the same external diameter D as the first longitudinal element 16, therefore it is also preferably of 48.3 mm.

[0118] Each plate 23 has a thickness of a few millimeters, for example about 5 mm and, viewed laterally, substantially the shape of an X.

[0119] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, one or more plates 23, for example the two near the ends of the beam 11 (fig. 5), are shaped so that each one has a slit 24 (fig. 6) in correspondence with the slot 21 present in the second longitudinal element 17. The function of the slits 24 is explained further below.

[0120] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, each beam 11 has a height Hl (fig. 5) comprised between 200 mm and 300 mm, preferably of 250 mm, and the sizes of the two longitudinal elements 16, 17 and of the intermediate elements 18 are such as to allow each beam 11 to support a load of up to 9.0 kN / m, as a function of the value of the center distance I between the support elements 29 (figs. 1 and 5).

[0121] In particular, the center distance I is preferably a multiple of 0.5 m and is even more preferably about 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 3.0 m, 4.0 m, 5.0 m, or 6.0 m. More in particular, when the center distance I is 1.0 m, the load that a beam 11 can support is 9.0 kN / m; when the center distance I is 1.5 m, the load that a beam 11 can support is 6.0 kN / m; when the center distance I is 2.0 m, the load that a beam 1 1 can support is 4.5 kN / m; when the center distance I is 2.5 m, the load that a beam 11 can support is 3.6 kN / m; when the center distance I is 3.0 m, the load that a beam 1 1 can support is 3.0 kN / m; when the center distance I is 4.0 m, the load that a beam 1 1 can support is 2.2 kN / m; when the center distance I is 5.0 m, the load that a beam 1 1 can support is 1.8 kN / m; and when the center distance I is 6.0 m, the load that a beam 11 can support is 1.4 kN / m.

[0122] It should be noted that the height H 1 of each beam 11 is much smaller than that of similar beams of suspended structures of the state of the art, sometimes at least by 40%, therefore this means that the workers installing the suspended structure 10 have to lean out considerably less when they have to operate with their hands on the lower part of the latter, as explained further below.

[0123] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, each beam 11 has a length LU of specific standardized sizes, which in the example given here are a multiple of 0.5 m and are preferably 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 3.0 m, 4.0 m, 5.0 m, 6.0 m.

[0124] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a metal profile element 25 (figs. 5, 6, 8 and 9), about 100 mm long, with a square cross-section and having a cavity 26 (figs. 8 and 9), is welded to each end of the second longitudinal element 17 and to the corresponding tubular element 22, so that it faces toward the first longitudinal element 16. Each profile element 25, the function of which is explained below, is also provided with two transverse through holes 27 (fig. 8), one parallel to the plane P and one transverse to it.

[0125] Furthermore, the second longitudinal element 17, in correspondence with each through hole 27 parallel to the plane P, is provided with a corresponding through hole 28 (fig. 6) on the bottom of the longitudinal cavity 19.

[0126] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, the beams 11 according to the first embodiment described above are of the reversible type, that is, in order to make the suspended structure 10 they can be used by disposing the second longitudinal element 17 upward, as shown in figs, from 5 to 8, or downward, as shown in fig. 9, as a function of the type of coupling with which the decks 14 to be used are provided, as described below.

[0127] In accordance with a second embodiment of the present invention, shown schematically in fig. 10, each beam 11 instead comprises two first longitudinal elements 16, the same as each other, one or more intermediate elements 18, the same as those described above, but no second U-shaped longitudinal element 17. Obviously, the beams 11 in accordance with the second embodiment described above are also of the reversible type, since the two stringers 16 are the same as each other.

[0128] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, when the height H2 of a beam 11 is 250 mm and (a) the second longitudinal element 17 has a substantially U-shaped cross-section, the weight of the beam 11, as a function of its length LU, is, respectively, 44.7 N when the length LU is 1.0 m; 67.5 N when the length LU is 1.5 m; 90.4 N when the length LU is 2.0 m; 129.5 N when the length LU is 3.0 m: 185.1 N when the length LU is 4.0 m; 220.2 N when the length LU is 5.0 m: and 265.9 N when the length LU is 6.0 m, or (b) the two longitudinal elements 16, 17 each instead comprise a tubular element, the weight of a beam 11 is, respectively, 38.6 N when the length LU is 1.0 m; 60.2 N when the length LU is 1.5 m; 81.9 N when the length LU is 2.0 m; 118.3 N when the length LU is 3.0 m; 161.6 N when the length LU is 4.0 m; 204.8 N when the length LU is 5.0 m; and 248.2 N when the length LU is 6.0 m.

[0129] JOINING THE BEAMS

[0130] A) Joining two beams in a longitudinal direction

[0131] When the sizes of the suspended structure 10, at least in the longitudinal direction, are such as to require that two or more pairs of beams 11 are aligned one after the other along the longitudinal axis X, the present invention provides to use new and innovative connection means 30 (figs, from 11 to 14) which allow to connect and join the beams 11 in a simple and fast manner.

[0132] The connection means 30 comprise connection sleeves 31 and 32, and elastic pins 33, which replace screws and nuts, making the connection simple and immediate both during assembly and also during disassembly, substantially without any tools. For example, the elastic pins 33 can be of the type described in European patent application EP-A-4.098.892 of the same inventor of the present invention.

[0133] The connection means 30 allow to create continuous beams, even hundreds of meters long, each consisting of two or more beams 11 , with a perfect distribution of the load, and to obtain a continuous and coplanar work surface.

[0134] In accordance with a first embodiment, shown schematically in fig. 11 , the connection means 30 comprise, for each join between two contiguous beams 1 1, a first connection sleeve 31 , consisting for example of a tubular metal element about 440 mm long, configured to be inserted, on one side and on the other, respectively inside two first longitudinal elements 16 of two beams 1 1 to be joined. The first connection sleeve 31 is provided with four transverse through holes 35 configured to be coaxial to the transverse through holes 20.

[0135] Furthermore, when the beams 11 are of the first embodiment described with reference to figs, from 5 to 9, the connection means 30 also comprise a second connection sleeve 32 consisting for example of a metal section bar about 190 mm long, having a square cross-section and also provided with four transverse through holes 36 configured to be coaxial to the transverse through holes 27 of the profile elements 25. The second connection sleeve 32 is configured to be inserted with its two ends into the corresponding cavities 26 of two opposing profile elements 25 of two beams 11 to be joined.

[0136] During use, in order to at least temporarily clamp two contiguous beams 11 with the connection means 30, after the first connection sleeve 31 has been inserted in the two first longitudinal elements 16 and the second connection sleeve 32 has been inserted in the cavities 26 of the two corresponding profile elements 25, the elastic pins 33 are inserted both in the transverse through holes 20 and 35, which will be coaxial, and also in the transverse through holes 27 and 36, which will be coaxial, and also in the two through holes 28 (fig. 6) coaxial to two of the transverse through holes 27.

[0137] When, on the other hand, the beams 1 1 are of the second embodiment described with reference to fig. 10, the connection means 30 only comprise two first connection sleeves 31 , the same as each other. This solution is not shown in the attached drawings, but is easily understood by a person of skill in the art.

[0138] The connection means 30, in accordance with a second embodiment, shown schematically in fig. 12, are configured so that each of the two connection sleeves 31 and 32 is divided into two first half-sleeves 31 A, 3 IB and into two second halfsleeves 32A, 32B, respectively, which are integral, on opposite sides, with a single metal plate 37 disposed transversely to them, so as to form a single connection unit. In this way, the personnel responsible for joining and / or disassembling the beams 11 is facilitated in the operation of inserting and / or extracting the connection sleeves 31 and 32 and the corresponding elastic pins 31.

[0139] In accordance with a third embodiment, shown schematically in fig. 13, the connection means 30 comprise, instead of a single metal plate 37, two metal plates

[0140] 39 and 40 on each of which, on opposite sides, the two connection half-sleeves 31 A, 32A and 3 IB, 32B, respectively, are attached. The two metal plates 39 and

[0141] 40 are provided with through holes 41, 42, respectively, which during use are parallel to the longitudinal axis X, the metal plates 39, 40 being configured to be coupled and joined together using bolts 43 after the four connection half-sleeves 31 A, 3 IB and 32 A, 32B have been inserted into the ends of the two beams 1 1 to be joined, and the eight elastic pins 33 have been inserted into the transverse through holes 20, 35 and 27, 36, as described above for the two connection sleeves 31 and 32.

[0142] In accordance with a fourth embodiment, shown schematically in fig. 14, the connection means 30 are similar to those of the third embodiment described above, with the only difference being that the two half-sleeves 32A, 32B consist of cylindrical tubular elements, instead of metal section bars with a square crosssection, to join two beams 11 of the second embodiment described with reference to fig. 10.

[0143] When the connection means 30 are in accordance with the third and fourth embodiment described above, this also achieves the advantage that, if necessary, a beam 11 intermediate between two other beams 11 can be easily removed from the support structure 10. In fact, in this case, it will be sufficient to remove the bolts 43 in order to decouple from each other the two pairs of metal plates 39 and 40 disposed at the two ends of the beam 11 to be removed, in order to then move it away from the adjacent ones, for example by lifting or lowering it. Just as easily, the same beam 1 1 that has been removed from the support structure 10 can be put back into place with a simple reverse operation that is easily understood by a person of skill in the art.

[0144] B) Joining two beams side by side and / or on top of each other

[0145] In particular cases, in order to increase the load capacity of the beams 11 , or to solve the technical problem of being able to increase the distance between the support elements 29 of the beams 11 (figs. 1 and 5), that is, the center distance I, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention it is possible to use a joining device 45 (figs, from 15 to 20) to double or quadruple the beams 1 1. In this way, two or four beams 11 can work together, increasing the load capacity.

[0146] More in particular, the joining device 45 in accordance with a first embodiment, shown in figs. 15, 16 and 17, for joining two beams 1 1 side by side, comprises a pair of parallel metal plates 46 (fig. 17), spaced apart so that there is a passage gap of about 20 mm between them, and joined together to form a single body.

[0147] On the outside of each of the two metal plates 46 there protrude, respectively: in the lower part a pair of C-shaped brackets 47 (only one pair is completely visible in fig. 17), configured to cooperate with two first longitudinal elements 16 of two beams 1 1 to be joined: and in the upper part a joint 49, similar to those of the prior art for joining two scaffolding tubes together. The two joints 49 are configured to be attached to two opposing tubular elements 22 of two beams 1 1 to be joined. In this specific case, the radius of curvature of each cavity of the brackets 47 is mating with the external diameter D of the first longitudinal elements 16 and the internal diameters of the joints 49 are equal to the external diameter D.

[0148] The joining device 45, in accordance with a second embodiment, shown in figs. 18, 19 and 20, for joining two beams 11 one on top of the other, that is, with their planes P coplanar with each other, comprises a single metal plate 50, shaped so as to have, on one flank, in a central zone thereof, two semi-cylindrical niches 51 (fig. 20) disposed one above the other and each having the radius of curvature mating with the external diameter D of the first longitudinal elements 16. The two niches 51 are configured to be coupled to two corresponding first longitudinal elements 16 of the two beams 11 to be joined. In addition, the plate 50, in correspondence with its ends, is provided with two coupling jaws 52, respectively one below and one above the two niches 51, having the radius of curvature mating with the external diameter of the two opposing tubular elements 22 of two beams 11 to be joined.

[0149] By using several joining devices 45 it is also possible to join together several beams 1 1, for example four, by placing side by side two pairs of beams 11 already joined one on top of the other.

[0150] C) Connecting two long beams to each other

[0151] During the installation of the suspended structure 10, it is advisable to connect two adjacent and parallel beams 11 , preferably in correspondence with the support means 12, with one or more spacer bars 53 (figs. 1, 21, 22, 47 and 51), which in the jargon of the people of skill in the art are called transoms, each of which is provided at its ends with two joints 54 of a known type, for example the same as those used in scaffolding, to be preferably connected in an offset manner one to a first longitudinal element 16 (fig. 22) of one beam 11 and the other to a tubular element 22 of the other beam 11 to be connected.

[0152] The spacer bars 53 can be of the telescopically extendable type so they can be adapted to the different distances between two beams 11 to be connected to each other.

[0153] THE SUPPORT MEANS

[0154] As disclosed above, the support means 12 comprise a plurality of support elements 29 and, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, each support element 29 comprises a chain 55 (fig. 27) having the following characteristics that allow to simplify the on-site assembly of the suspended structure 10.

[0155] Each chain 55 preferably comprises, or consists of, two elements 56 (fig. 23) and 57 (fig. 24) to be connected to each other, one after the other, namely: an upper element 56 (fig. 23), about 0.7 m long and configured to be removably coupled or attached, for example by means of a first lifting shackle 59, to the elevated part 201 (fig. 27) of the building construction 200, as is described in detail below; and a lower element 57 (fig. 24), to be positioned further below, about 1.3 m long, in order to obtain a standard working height H2 (fig. 27) between the decks 14 and the elevated part 201, normally comprised between 1.8 m and 2.0 m, exceptionally between 0.5 m and 2.0 m. Furthermore, at least one optional intermediate element 60 (fig. 25) can be disposed between the upper element 56 and the lower element 57 when this height H2 (fig. 7) is to exceed 2.0 m. Each chain 55 has an effective capacity of 20 kN, even considering a safety' coefficient of 4:1, and is CE certified.

[0156] At the end of the upper element 56 opposite the one in which the first lifting shackle 59 is disposed (fig. 23), there is attached a first safety hook 61, with the function of shortener, to roughly adjust, by hooking it to any ring of the lower element 57, the length of the chain 55, while at one end of the lower element 57 there is disposed a tensioner, or screw coupling, 62, configured both to finely adjust, with millimeter precision, the length of the corresponding chain 55 in order to guarantee that on site the walkable surface of the suspended structure 10, defined by the rest surfaces of the decks 14, is perfectly horizontal, and also to tension the chain 55 itself when it is installed. In fact, to obtain the maximum safety of the suspended structure 10, all the chains 55 that sustain the beams 1 1 and the decks 14 have to always be in tension.

[0157] A second lifting shackle 63 is coupled to a free end of the tensioner 62, to which a new and innovative sustaining device 65 (figs, from 27 to 33) can be coupled, which is configured to be coupled to the beams 11 and sustain them, as disclosed below.

[0158] A second safety hook 66 is hooked to a lower end of the intermediate element 60 (fig. 25), which also has the function of shortener in order to roughly adjust the length of the chain 55.

[0159] Depending on how the lower part of the elevated part 201 of the building construction 200, on which the suspended structure 10 is to be coupled, is made, the first lifting shackle 59 (figs. 23 and 27) of the upper element 56 can be connected to it, for example, in one of the following three ways:

[0160] 1. when the elevated part 201 to which a chain 55 is to be coupled is a reinforced concrete structure, a hole is made in the latter in which an expansion dowel is then inserted, of any known type whatsoever, which ends externally with a female eyebolt, for example with a capacity of up to 40 kN and safety coefficient 4, to which the first lifting shackle 59 is then coupled;

[0161] 2. when the elevated part 201 to which a chain 55 is to be coupled is a metal beam, for example with a T-shaped cross-section, a new and innovative coupling device 67 (figs. 34, 35 and 36) is used, which is described in detail below;

[0162] 3. when the elevated part 201 to which a chain 55 is to be coupled is a bar, an I- beam, or a tubular element that has a sufficient free space above it, it is possible to use a line, a belt, a strap iron or a similar element, of material and sizes suitable to bear the weight that, during use, can weigh on the same chain 55 and which, in the example given here, can even be of the order of 20 kN, to which the first lifting shackle 59 can then be coupled.

[0163] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a first electric hoist 68 (schematized in fig. 26) can optionally be associated with each of the chains 55, or with some of them, to selectively lift the platform consisting of the beams 11, the decks 14 and the other accessories 15 possibly associated therewith, if required, which are described further below, such as for example when the suspended structure 10 is installed underneath a bridge that crosses a river, in the event of a flood threat thereof, such as to put the entire suspended structure 10 at risk.

[0164] Some embodiments of the present invention advantageously provide that the one or more electric hoists 68 are commanded in wireless mode, for example by means of a control unit of a known type and not shown in the drawings.

[0165] The sustaining device The sustaining device 65 (figs, from 26 to 30) comprises a first shaped plate 69, essentially C-shaped, and a second shaped plate 70 which is pivoted to a lower end 71 thereof by means of a pin 72, so that the second shaped plate 70 can not only rotate with respect to the first shaped plate 69, but also tilt by a few degrees with respect to the plane on which the latter lies, so that a free end 73 thereof can be spaced apart, by up to about 15 mm, from an upper part 75 of the first shaped plate 69 (dashed lined position in fig. 31).

[0166] The two shaped plates 69 and 70 are preferably made of metal, they have a thickness of about 6 mm and are conformed in such a way that when they are in the closed position (figs, from 28 to 31 and 33) they define a substantially rectangular shaped cavity 76 between them with sizes such as to accommodate, with sufficient clearance, a beam 1 1 (fig. 33), regardless of whether the latter conforms to the first embodiment disclosed above with reference to figs, from 5 to 9, or to the second embodiment disclosed above with reference to fig. 10.

[0167] On the lower part of the cavity 76 (figs. 28, 29, 39 and 32) there is disposed a cradle 77 on which, during use, the longitudinal element 16 or 17 which is located at a lower height than a beam 11 can rest.

[0168] The cradle 77 is attached to the lower part of the first shaped plate 69 by means of a small bolt 79 (figs. 29 and 30) so that the cradle 77 itself can have a slight degree of freedom with respect to the first shaped plate 69.

[0169] In addition, the first shaped plate 69, in its upper part 75, is provided both with a slot 80, aligned with the cavity 76 and in which the second lifting shackle 63 can be inserted, and also with a peg 81 disposed transversely and protruding by more than the thickness of the second shaped plate 70 (fig. 31).

[0170] The free end 73 of the second shaped plate 70 is shaped so as to form a hook 82 (figs. 28 and 33), which defines a recess 83 mating in shape with the upper part of the slot 80, and it is provided with a through hole 85 into which, during use, the peg 81 is inserted (fig. 31).

[0171] The sustaining device 65 can assume a closed or operating position, shown in figs, from 28 to 31, in which the cavity 76 is complete, or an open position, shown in fig. 32. In the closed position, the two shaped plates 69 and 70 cannot open accidentally, because the peg 81 is inserted in the through hole 85. Furthermore, during use, that is, when the sustaining device 65 sustains a beam 11 (fig. 33), the second lifting shackle 63 is inserted both in the slot 80 and also in the recess 83, therefore there is a double safety that prevents the sustaining device 65 from opening accidentally.

[0172] In fact, in order to pass from the closed position to the open position of the sustaining device 65, first the second lifting shackle 63 has to be lowered until it comes out of the recess 83, while still keeping it in the lower part of the slot 80; then the second shaped plate 70 is tilted with respect to the first shaped plate 69 so as to make it disengage from the peg 81 (dashed lined position in fig. 31); then the second shaped plate 70 is rotated by up to about 180° with respect to the pin 72, for example counterclockwise as shown in fig. 32. In the open position, the sustaining device 65 can be easily associated with the beam 1 1 to be supported, by making the latter rest on the cradle 77.

[0173] In order to pass from the open position to the closed position of the sustaining device 65, it is sufficient to cany- out the operations in the reverse order, that is, first rotating the second shaped plate 70 with respect to the pin 72 in the opposite direction to the previous one, until it is brought to the initial position, inserting the peg 81 into the through hole 85 and then returning the second lifting shackle 63 to the upper part of the slot 80 and the recess 83.

[0174] We must clarity7that the sustaining device 65 can be coupled to a beam 11, or removed therefrom, without needing to uncouple the second lifting shackle 63 or to detach the corresponding chain 55 to which it is coupled, it being sufficient to loosen the latter.

[0175] Furthermore, we must clarity7that in the case of a side-by-side joining of two beams 1 1 , as disclosed above, the distance between the two metal plates 46 (fig. 17) is sufficient to allow one or more sustaining devices 65 to be in any case associated with the beams 11.

[0176] The coupling device

[0177] The coupling device 67 (figs. 34, 35 and 36) comprises two metal plates 86 and 87, the same as each other, sandwich-coupled and held together by a plurality of spacer elements 89 and by a bolt 90, so as to form a very solid frame.

[0178] In the two plates 86 and 87 there are both two pairs of matching slots 91 and 92, which during use are horizontal, into which two bolts 93, 95, respectively, are inserted in a sliding manner, whose stems have the function of pins, and also a series of through holes 96 into which clamping pegs 97 can be inserted, for example the same as the elastic pins 33.

[0179] Two jaws 98, 99, respectively, are pivoted on the bolts 93 and 95, each comprising two metal plates disposed outside the two plates 86 and 87 and connected to each other by means of transverse plates 100.

[0180] Between the two plates 86 and 87, a coupling element 101, closed in a ring, is coupled to the bolt 90, which in the jargon of the people of skill in the art is called a bell, on which the first lifting shackle 59 can be coupled.

[0181] The two jaws 98 and 99 can assume a closed position, shown in figs. 34 and 35, in which, during use, their free ends are substantially horizontal, or an open position, shown in fig. 36, in which they are tilted outward from opposite sides.

[0182] The two bolts 93 and 95 can slide along the slots 91 and 92 and be selectively positioned to adjust the distance between the jaws 98 and 99 as a function of the width of the structural element of the elevated part 201 on which the coupling device 67 is to be coupled.

[0183] The clamping pegs 97, when inserted into the corresponding through holes 96, have the function of preventing the two jaws 98 and 99 from accidentally passing from their closed position to their open position.

[0184] The coupling device 67 is therefore very safe and easy to use.

[0185] THE REST MEANS

[0186] Each deck 14 (figs. 1, 21, 37 and 38), which as disclosed is part of the rest means 13, comprises, or consists of, a metal plate 102, for example made of galvanized steel, having a substantially rectangular rest surface, with a larger side having a length that is a multiple of 0.5 m and is preferably 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 2.5 m, 3.0 m, and a smaller side having a length that is preferably 0.33 m or 0.5 m, and it can be class 3, 4, 5, or 6, capable of supporting, respectively, loads of about 2.0 kN / m2; 3.0 kN / m2: 4.5 kN / m2and 6.0 kN / m2, whatever the size of the smaller side.

[0187] Furthermore, each metal plate 102, in correspondence with each of its smaller sides, is provided with coupling means 103 configured to be easily and removably coupled to the second longitudinal elements 17 of the beams 11.

[0188] In accordance with a first embodiment, shown in fig. 37, the coupling means 103 comprise, or consist of, a single metal section bar 105 having a cross-section shaped as an L rotated clockwise by 180°, that is, with a -i shape, so that it can be easily inserted with its lower part into the longitudinal cavity 19 of a second longitudinal element 17, when the latter is facing upward (figs, from 5 to 8).

[0189] In accordance with a second embodiment, shown in fig. 38, the coupling means 103 comprise, or consist of, some arched elements 106, for example two or three, capable of being coupled to the first longitudinal element 16 when the latter is facing upward, as shown in fig. 9, or when the beam 11 is of the type shown in fig.

[0190] 10.

[0191] The rest means 13 can optionally, but preferably, also comprise one or more clamping elements 107 (fig. 39), which in the jargon of the people of skill in the art are also referred to as board retainers, for clamping the decks 14 onto the beams

[0192] 11 , when the latter conform to the first embodiment disclosed above with reference to figs, from 5 to 9, that is, with the second longitudinal element 17 facing upward.

[0193] Each clamping element 107 is configured to be disposed covering the longitudinal cavity' 19 (fig. 8) of a second longitudinal element 17 and comprises, or consists of, a metal bar 109 (fig. 39) having a T-shaped cross-section, whose transverse width is greater than the width LA (fig. 8) of the longitudinal cavity 19 and whose length varies as a function of the length LU of the beams 11 with which it is to be associated, and is of specific standardized measures, preferably 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, or 3.0 m.

[0194] The clamping element 107 does not create any tripping risk, thanks to the very small thickness of its upper part, which during use is horizontal.

[0195] Below the vertical part of the bar 109 (fig. 39) there are two hooks 110 configured to be inserted first, with a vertical movement from top to bottom, in the slots 21 (figs. 6 and 7) of a second longitudinal element 17, and then, with a horizontal movement parallel to the longitudinal axis X, into the corresponding slits 24 (fig. 6) present in the plates 23, so that the two hooks 110 (fig. 39) engage with the lower surface of the second longitudinal element 17. In this position, the bar 109 is clamped onto the underlying beam 11 and cannot be lifted, unless someone deliberately and manually performs a reverse maneuver to remove it.

[0196] Furthermore, near the rectilinear rear part of at least one hook 110 there is a safety element, or cap 111 (fig. 39), able to slide vertically so that it can be selectively lifted during the insertion of the hooks 1 10 into the slits 24 and lowered inside one of the latter, so as to clamp the hooks 110 therein. Therefore, only the manual removal of the cap 111 also allows the removal of the bar 109 from the beam 11.

[0197] Some embodiments of the present invention provide that a wooden strip can be inserted into the longitudinal cavity 19, on which possible wooden floorboards can be attached, using nails, as a replacement of the metal plates 102.

[0198] ACCESSORY ELEMENTS

[0199] The accessories 15 of the suspended structure 10 comprise a parapet 112 (fig. 1) made using, for example, tubes and joints for scaffolding of a known type.

[0200] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the vertical tubes, or uprights, of the parapet 112 can be advantageously coupled, in a simple, safe and quick manner, to the underlying beams 11 using a metal support device 113 which, in accordance with a first embodiment, shown in fig. 40, comprises an upright 114, which during use is vertical, in the lower part of which there is attached, perpendicularly, a tubular element 115 similar to a first half-sleeve 31A (fig. 12), while in an intermediate part thereof there is attached a section bar 116 (fig. 40) having a square cross-section and similar to a second half-sleeve 32 A.

[0201] The tubular element 115 and the section bar 116 are configured to be inserted laterally into a first longitudinal element 16 (from the left in fig. 6) and into a profile element 25, respectively, of a beam 11, when the latter is made in accordance with the first embodiment and the second longitudinal element 17 is facing upward, and then to be clamped onto the same beam 11 by means of elastic pins 33.

[0202] A tubular element 117 (fig. 40) provided with a joint 119, in which an upright of the parapet 1 12 can be inserted, is attached in the upper part of the upright 114.

[0203] The support device 113, in accordance with a second embodiment, shown in fig. 41, has the tubular element 115 and the section bar 116 in inverted positions, so it can be coupled to a beam 11 when this is made in accordance with the first embodiment and the second longitudinal element 17 faces downward (fig. 9).

[0204] The accessories 15 of the suspended structure 10 also comprise a safety' net 120 (fig. 42), of a known type, for example made of polyethylene with 100 mm x 100 mm mesh, certified, which can be connected manually to the beams 1 1 by means of cords 121, for example also made of polyethylene, suitably knotted.

[0205] Furthermore, in accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the accessories 15 of the suspended structure 10 comprise a sheet 122 (fig. 43) of waterproof material, for example polyvinylchloride (PVC), which is configured to be placed below the safety7net 120 and outside the parapet 112.

[0206] The function of the sheet 122 is to simplify and optimize the operation of collecting water, or other liquids, and materials deriving from the work carried out on the building construction 200, for example when carrying out water sandblasting, hydro-washing, or other work that uses liquids and / or produces scrap or debris, offering total containment and preventing any losses into the environment.

[0207] Advantageously, the sheet 122 is shaped so as to have, in a substantially central zone thereof, one or more containing bags 123, in correspondence with each of which, on a corresponding deck 14, there is a through aperture 125 (fig. 44), in which a suction tube of a pump 126 can be inserted to suction the material contained in the underlying containing bag 123.

[0208] The sheet 122 is sealed and completely seals the underlying and lateral area of the suspended surface defined by the upper surfaces of the decks 14, it collects all water, or any other liquids, and the residual materials from the cleaning processes that are conveyed toward the containing bags 123 and suctioned by the pumps 126.

[0209] This prevents any dispersion into the surrounding environment and the upper surfaces of the decks 14 remain less slippery.

[0210] For example, the containing bags 123 are positioned every 12 m2of surface defined by the decks 14 and are equipped with a lower hermetic cap 127, schematized in fig. 43, which, when necessary, can be opened to drain any rainwater.

[0211] The type of pump 126 to be used, the position and the flow rate of the suctioned water are preferably calculated according to the type of work to be carried out on the building construction 200.

[0212] The sheet 120, thanks to the quality of the material and to how it is constructed, offers a guarantee of total containment even when it is exposed to direct contact with high-pressure jets, and can find application in all types of hydro-jet and high- pressure washing technologies, and on all types of surfaces, including steel and concrete, even in the railway, road, oil and gas, civil and energy sectors.

[0213] The suspended structure 10 described heretofore has, at a basic level, that is, without the accessories 15, an average weight per square meter of walkable surface comprised between about 180 N / m2and about 220 N / m2, that is, very' low compared to similar suspended structures of the prior art.

[0214] METHOD FOR MAKING AND INSTALLING THE SUSPENDED STRUCTURE

[0215] The present invention also concerns the method for making and installing the suspended structure 10 described above, which is new and original, and comprises the following steps.

[0216] In a preparatory step, on the elevated part 201 of the construction 200 on which to intervene, in order to safely carry out any kind of work, first of all a starting platform 130 is built (figs. 45, 46 and 47), for example having a walkable surface of a few square meters, preferably of about 4 m2, using at least two beams 11, parallel to each other, and some decks 14 resting on top of them and coupled to them, and then positioning the starting platform 130 at the desired working height. In order to do this, at least the following three embodiments are possible:

[0217] 1. starting from the ground, the working height is easily and safely reached by using, for example, a so-called ladder tower 131 (fig. 45), of a known and commercially available type, to be anchored to the building construction 200, for example to the pylon of a bridge or viaduct, with which it is possible to reach substantially any height of up to a few hundred meters and to install the starting platform 130 at the top of it;

[0218] 2. starting from a shoulder of the elevated part 201, solidly attaching on the latter a scaffolding of about 4 m2substantially at the required working height and making a first rest surface on the latter with two beams 11 which are then anchored, with chains 55 or other tie rods, to the soffit of the elevated part 201 (fig. 46);

[0219] 3. with a reverse start, that is, starting from an upper deck, for example a road surface, of the same elevated part 201 , for example by using a so-called arial underbridge platform, also known by the English term “by bridge”, or by making another ladder tower 131 with scaffolding (fig. 47), but in a downward direction and anchored to the road surface, so as to exit cantilevered from the elevated part 201 and descend until it reaches the desired height, where a first rest surface is then made with two beams 11 which are then anchored, for example with chains 55, to the soffit of the same elevated part 201. After the starting platform 130 has been made, the method provides to continue with one or more advance steps, which are described below, and which comprise the use of one or more new and original suspended guides 132 (fig. 48).

[0220] In particular, each suspended guide 132 comprises a bar 133 made with a metal section bar, for example of aluminum, having a substantially rectangular crosssection (fig. 49), which has a lower main longitudinal groove 135, open downward, shaped so as to have two guide surfaces 136 on which a single slider 137 provided with wheels 139 can slide. The bar 133 is also provided with a plurality of other lightening longitudinal grooves 140. By way of example, the bar 133 is about 5 m long.

[0221] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, so that it can be maneuvered more easily, the bar 133 can be divided into two or more parts, for example of equal length, which are joined on site by inserting a shaped sleeve 141 into the widest of the other longitudinal grooves 140, indicated with 140 A in fig. 49.

[0222] At the lower part of the slider 137 there is attached one end of a first short chain 141, at the other end of which there is attached a safety hook 142 configured to lift a beam 11.

[0223] At a rear end 143 of the suspended guide 132 there is attached a tie rod 145 with anti-tipping function, which for example can consist of a second short chain 146.

[0224] In addition, each suspended guide 132, in a substantially central zone of its upper part, is provided with a metal eyelet 147 on which there is attached a lower end of a sustaining chain 149 connected with its upper part to a second electric hoist 150, preferably commanded in wireless mode, for example by means of the same control unit that controls the first electric hoists 68, if present, or by a dedicated control unit. The second electric hoist 150 can be coupled to the elevated part 201 by means of another sustaining chain 151.

[0225] The upper part of the suspended guide 132 is also provided with two grip handles 152.

[0226] The advance steps can be substantially of the following two types: longitudinal, in order to add new beams 1 1 longitudinally, that is, aligning each new beam 1 1 with an already installed beam on the same longitudinal axis X; or transverse, in order to add a new beam 11 transversely, that is, with the longitudinal axis X of a new beam 11 parallel to the corresponding longitudinal axis X of an already installed beam 11.

[0227] In both cases, however, each advance step comprises a lifting step, in which a beam 1 1 to be installed is lifted and kept sustained with a suspended guide 132, or one or two beams 11 to be installed are lifted and kept sustained with two suspended guides 132, and a connection step, in which a new beam 11 is connected to an already installed beam 11 using the connection means 30 (figs, from 1 1 to 14), which are chosen as a function of the type of beam 1 1 used (figs, from 5 to 10) and its set-up, that is, whether or not the second longitudinal U-shaped element 17 is present, and, if it is, whether its longitudinal cavity 29 is positioned upward (fig. 8) or downward (fig. 9).

[0228] A step of longitudinal advance of the suspended structure 10, shown schematically in figs, from 50 to 52, provides that, before the lifting step, two connection sleeves 31 and 32, or two half-sleeves 31 A and 32A, which are then clamped with the elastic pins 33, are positioned on the head of two already installed beams 11 which are near each other.

[0229] Then two suspended guides 132 are coupled to the soffit of the elevated part 201 with the sustaining chains 149 and 15, and the electric hoists 150, keeping them parallel to each other, in correspondence with the two beams 11 already installed, and each suspended guide 132 is coupled to the latter by means of the corresponding anti-tipping tie rods 145 (fig. 50).

[0230] Two new beams 11 are then coupled to the two hooks 142 of the two short chains 141 (fig. 51) and then, by means of the sliders 137, the new beams 1 1 are moved manually and lowered so as to place them as a longitudinal extension of the two already installed beams 11, all of this with the aid of the two electric hoists 150 (fig. 52).

[0231] Each new beam 11 is then connected to the two connection sleeves 31 and 32, or to two half-sleeves 3 IB and 32B which are then clamped with other elastic pins 33.

[0232] Then, keeping the new beams 11 still sustained by the suspended guides 132, the first decks 14 and the clamping elements 107 are laid and the spacer bars 53 are coupled to the two new beams 11.

[0233] The chains 55, first of a new beam 11 and then of the other, are then coupled and tensioned.

[0234] This is followed by the installation of the decks 14 and of the clamping elements 107, as well as the coupling of the spacer bars 53 and of the chains 55, until the free end of the two new beams 1 1 is reached.

[0235] At this point, the two suspended guides 132 can be removed and the operation can be repeated with two other new beams 1 1.

[0236] A step of transverse advance of the suspended structure 10, shown schematically in figs, from 53 to 57, instead provides to position a pair of suspended guides 132 transversely to the already installed beams 11 , to couple them to the soffit of the elevated part 201 and to clamp them in position with the anti-tipping tie rods 145, similarly to what has been described previously (fig. 53).

[0237] A new beam 1 1 is then prepared and coupled to the two hooks 142 of the two sliders 137 of the two suspended guides 132.

[0238] The joints 54 of at least two spacer bars 53 are connected to the ends of the new beam 1 1 and, using the same spacer bars 53, the new beam 11 is pushed, making the sliders 137 slide with respect to their suspended guides 132 (fig. 54), until it is brought into the desired position, for example between about 1.0 m and about 3.0 m from the already installed beam 1 1 , after which the spacer bars 53 are connected with the joints 54 to the corresponding already installed beam 11 (fig. 55).

[0239] The new beam 11, together with the two suspended guides 132, is raised and lowered, if necessary', by driving the electric hoists 150.

[0240] Keeping the beam still sustained by the two suspended guides 132, the first two decks 14 are positioned, after which a first chain 55 is coupled to the soffit of the elevated part 201, and then the other decks 14 are positioned and the other chains 55 are coupled (fig. 56).

[0241] Fig. 57 schematically shows a step of making the structure 10, in which a new beam 11 is positioned parallel to some already installed beams 11 (to the left in fig. 57), but as an extension to another beam 11 already installed (the one furthest to the right in the same fig. 57).

[0242] Fig. 4 schematically shows a use of the suspended structure 10 for working not only underneath the elevated part 201, but also laterally thereto.

[0243] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the suspended structure 10 allows to create multi-story suspended installations 300, one of which is shown schematically in fig. 58.

[0244] In fact, it is sufficient to couple a suspended structure 10 at a desired height from the ground and then couple the beams 11 of one or more other suspended structures 10 by using tensioning members 301, for example similar to the support means 12, which are coupled to the beams 11 of an upper suspended structure 10 in order to sustain the beams 1 1 of a lower suspended structure 10.

[0245] We must clarify that the suspended structure 10 is modular and can be assembled as desired, according to the requirements of the specific work site, in order to carry' out any maintenance, for example, of bridges and viaducts, as well as maintenance and fittings of ceilings in general, and that it can be built quickly using one or more suspended guides 132, preferably two.

[0246] Therefore the beams 1 1, preferably made of aluminum and preferably 250 mm high, can be reversible, because they can be used both with decks 14 with U- attachment, and also with tube attachment, and are available in various lengths LU up to 6.0 m, and are connected with two sleeves 31, 32, or half-sleeves 31 A, 3 IB and 32A, 32B and preferably eight elastic pins 33 that make the connection quick, secure and simple.

[0247] The suspended guide 132 has been designed to speed up assembly and to create a suspended structure 10 that can go beyond even the piers and dosserets, or any other obstacle, of a building construction 200 and continue with the suspended structure 10 in the next span without interrupting road viability, by using other beams 11, other decks 14 and other chains 55.

[0248] Thanks to the use of suspended guides 132, the beams 11 can be easily positioned both longitudinally and also transversely, to continue the assembly of the platform, advancing longitudinally or widening transversely.

[0249] The use of the suspended guides 132 guarantees that operators will always work in total safety7from a stable platform of the suspended structure 10 under construction.

[0250] Practical trials have shown that it is possible to assemble about 200 m2per day with a team of three trained operators, with the help of a pair of suspended guides 132.

[0251] In addition, to carry' out the maintenance of edge beams, shaped soffits or geometrically complex manufactured articles, the suspended structure 10 can be integrated with any type of scaffolding.

[0252] We must clarify that, sometimes, it is necessary to move a complete work surface of the suspended structure 10, or only a portion of it, or even a multi-story structure for different reasons: to work at different heights without having to disassemble and reassemble the entire suspended structure 10, or to have to quickly lift the platform to make it safe. For this reason, the motors of the electric hoists 68 and 150 can guarantee a load capacity7of from 200 kg up to 2,000 kg.

[0253] To move even just one portion of the suspended structure 10, it is possible to use the connection means 30 with quick release of the beams 11, shown with reference to figs. 13 and 14. During any movement of the suspended structure 10, or part thereof, it is necessary7that the staff in charge makes sure to secure both surfaces, both the fixed one and also the one to be moved.

[0254] It is clear that modifications and / or additions of parts and / or of steps may be made to the suspended structure 10 and to the method for making it as described heretofore, without thereby departing from the field and scope of the present invention, as defined by the attached claims.

[0255] It is also clear that, although the present invention has been described with reference to some specific examples, a person of skill in the art will be able to achieve other equivalent forms of suspended structures and / or methods for making them, having the characteristics as set forth in the claims and hence all coming within the field of protection defined thereby.

[0256] In the following claims, the sole purpose of the references in brackets is to facilitate their reading and they must not be considered as restrictive factors with regard to the field of protection defined by the claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Modular type suspended structure (10) to safely carry7out work on a building construction (200), comprising:- at least two metal beams (11) each having its own longitudinal axis (X) and configured to be disposed horizontally and parallel to each other underneath, or to the side of, an elevated part (201) of said building construction (200), wherein each of said beams (11) comprises both two longitudinal elements, or stringers (16, 17), parallel to said longitudinal axis (X) and disposed on a preferably median plane (P) passing through the latter and which, during use, is vertical, and also one or more intermediate elements (18) interposed between said two longitudinal elements (16, 17), attached thereto and lying on said plane (P);- support means (12) comprising a plurality of support elements (29) and configured to be at least temporarily attached, or connected, to said building construction (200) in order to support, or sustain, each of said beams (11), wherein said support elements (29), during use, are substantially vertical and are spaced apart from each other by a distance, or center distance (I), which is chosen as a function of the load that each of said beams (1 1) has to support: and- rest means (13) configured to be rested on, or attached to, said beams (11) in order to create a horizontal walkable surface on which the personnel assigned to said work can walk safely, characterized in that each of said beams (11) has a height (Hl) comprised between 200 mm and 300 mm, preferably of 250 mm, and in that said two longitudinal elements (16, 17) and said one or more intermediate elements ( 18) have sizes such as to allow each of said beams ( 11 ) to support a load of up to 9.0 kN / m, as a function of the value of said center distance.

2. Suspended structure (10) as in claim 1, characterized in that said center distance (I) is preferably a multiple of 0.5 m and is even more preferably 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 3.0 m, 4.0 m, 5.0 m, or 6.0 m and in that: when said center distance (I) is 1.0 m, said load is 9.0 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 1.5 m, said load is 6.0 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 2.0 m, said load is 4.5 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 2.5 m, said load is 3.6 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 3.0 m, said load is 3.0 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 4.0 m, said load is 2.2 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 5.0 m, said load is 1.8 kN / m; and when said center distance (I) is 6.0 m, said load is 1.4 kN / m.

3. Suspended structure (10) as in claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each of said beams (1 1) is made of aluminum, has a length (LU) of specific sizes which are a multiple of 0.5 m and are preferably 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 3.0 m, 4.0 m, 5.0 m, 6.0 m and in that at least a first longitudinal element (16) of said two longitudinal elements (16, 17) comprises, or consists of, a tubular metal element of a standard type for the scaffolding sector and preferably has an external diameter of 48.3 mm.

4. Suspended structure (10) as in claim 3, characterized in that at least a second longitudinal element (17) of said two longitudinal elements (16, 17) comprises, or consists of, a metal section bar having a substantially U-shaped cross-section, with the two lateral flanks substantially parallel to said plane (P).

5. Suspended structure (10) as in claim 3, characterized in that each of said two longitudinal elements (16, 17) comprises, or consists of, a tubular metal element of a standard type for the scaffolding sector and preferably has an external diameter of 48.3 mm.

6. Suspended structure (10) as in claim 3, 4 and 5, characterized in that, when said height (Hl) of each of said beams (11) is 250 mm and (a) said second longitudinal element (17) has a substantially U-shaped cross-section, the weight of each of said beams (11), as a function of said length (LU), is, respectively, 44.7 N when said length (LU) is 1.0 m; 67.5 N when said length (LU) is 1.5 m; 90.4 N when said length (LU) is 2.0 m; 129.5 N when said length (LU) is 3.0 m; 185.1 N when said length (LU) is 4.0 m; 220.2 N when said length (LU) is 5.0 m; and 265.9 N when said length (LU) is 6.0 m, or (b) said two longitudinal elements (16, 17) instead each comprise a tubular element, the weight of each of said beams ( 1 1 ) is, respectively, 38.6 N when said length (LU) is 1 .0 m; 60.2 N when said length (LU) is 1.5 m; 81.9 N when said length (LU) is 2.0 m; 118.3 N when said length (LU) is 3.0 m: 161.6 N when said length (LU) is 4.0 m; 204.8 N when said length (LU) is 5.0 m; and 248.2 N when said length (LU) is 6.0 m.

7. Suspended structure (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that each of said beams ( 11 ) is of the reversible type and can be used either with said second longitudinal element ( 17) positioned at the top to cooperate with said rest means (13), or with said second longitudinal element (17) positioned at the bottom and said first longitudinal element (16) positioned at the top so that the latter can cooperate with said rest means (13).

8. Suspended structure (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that overall, without any accessories (15) it has an average weight per square meter of walkable surface comprised between 180 N / m2and 220 N / m2.

9. Suspended structure (10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that each of said beams (1 1) is configured to be coupled to another of said beams (11), either in a longitudinal direction, with their longitudinal axes (X) in continuity, or paired laterally, with the planes (P) on which their longitudinal elements (16, 17) lie parallel to each other, or one on top of the other with said planes (P) coplanar, preferably vertical.

10. Suspended structure ( 10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that it also comprises connection means (30) configured to join together two of said beams (11) in a longitudinal direction, with their longitudinal axes (X) in continuity7, and in that said connection means (30) comprise two metal plates (39, 40) configured to be selectively joined together and on each of which, on opposite sides, there are attached two connection sleeves (31, 32), or half-sleeves (31 A, 32 A; 3 IB, 32B) configured to be coupled to the ends of said longitudinal elements (16, 17).

11. Suspended structure ( 10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that it also comprises one or more spacer bars (53), configured to be coupled to two of said beams (11) parallel to each other and spaced apart, wherein each of said spacer bars (53) is provided at its ends with two joints (54) configured to be connected preferably one to a first of said longitudinal elements (16, 17) of one of said beams (11) and the other to one of said intermediate elements (18) of the other of said beams ( 11 ) to be connected.

12. Suspended structure ( 10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that said rest means (13) comprise one or more metal panels (14) having a substantially rectangular rest surface, with a larger side having a length that is a multiple of 0.5 m and is preferably 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 2.5 m, 3.0 m, and a smaller side having a length that is preferably 0.33 m or 0.5 m, said metal panels (14) being class 3, 4, 5, or 6, capable of supporting, respectively, loads of 2.0 kN / m2; 3.0 kN / m2; 4.5 kN / m2and 6.0 kN / m2.

13. Suspended structure ( 10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that each of said support elements (29) comprises a chain (55), which in turn preferablycomprises at least one upper element (56) and one lower element (57) which can be connected to each other, in order to obtain a standard working height (H2), between said rest means (13) and said elevated part (201), normally comprised between 1.8 m and 2.0 m, exceptionally between 0.5 m and 2.0 m, and possibly also an intermediate element (60) configured to be interposed between said upper element (56) and said lower element (57) and coupled to them when said standard working height (H2) is to exceed 2.0 m.

14. Suspended structure (10) as in claim 13, characterized in that one or more of said chains (55) is associated with an electric hoist (68) which can also be commanded in wireless mode.

15. Suspended structure ( 10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that each of said support elements (29) comprises a sustaining device (65) configured to be removably coupled to each of said beams (1 1), wherein said sustaining device (65) comprises a pair of selectively openable first jaw-shaped elements (69, 70) and first safety' means (81, 85) configured to prevent said first jaw-shaped elements (69, 70) from opening accidentally.

16. Suspended structure ( 10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that each of said support elements (29) comprises a coupling device (67) configured to be removably coupled to said elevated part (201), wherein said coupling device (67) comprises at least one support plate (86, 87) provided with two slots (91, 92) in which two corresponding pins (93, 95) of two second jaw-shaped elements (98, 99) are able to slide and be positioned, which can be selectively inclined with respect to said pins (93, 95) in order to selectively assume an open position or a closed position, and in which second safety means (81, 85) are provided to prevent said second jaw-shaped elements (98, 99) from opening accidentally.

17. Suspended structure ( 10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that it also comprises a safety net (120) removably attached underneath said beams (11).

18. Suspended structure ( 10) as in any claim hereinbefore, characterized in that it also comprises a sheet (122) of waterproof material configured to be placed underneath said beams (11) and possibly underneath a safety net (120) and outside a possible parapet (112), with the function of simplifying and optimizing the operation of collecting water, or any materials deriving from said work on saidbuilding construction (200), thus offering total containment and preventing leaks into the environment.

19. Multi-story structure (300), characterized in that it comprises two or more of said suspended structures (10) as in any claim hereinbefore coupled to each other, having their rest means (13) disposed on different horizontal planes, in which tensioning members (301), similar to said support means (12), are coupled to said beams (11) of an upper suspended structure (10) in order to sustain said beams (11) of a lower suspended structure (10).

20. Method for making a modular type suspended structure (10) to safely cany7out work on a building construction (200), comprising at least the following steps:- preparing at least two metal beams (11), each having its own longitudinal axis (X), and disposing them horizontally and parallel to each other underneath, or to the side of, an elevated part (201) of said building construction (200), wherein each of said beams (11) comprises both two longitudinal elements (16, 17) parallel to said longitudinal axis (X) and disposed on a preferably median plane (P) passing through the latter and which, during use, is vertical, and also one or more intermediate elements (18) interposed between said two longitudinal elements (16, 17), attached thereto and lying on said plane (P);- preparing support means (12) comprising a plurality of support elements (29) to be at least temporarily attached or connected to said building construction (200) in order to support, or sustain, each of said beams (11), wherein said support elements (29) are, during use, substantially vertical and are spaced apart from each other by a distance, or center distance (I), which is chosen as a function of the load that each of said beams (11) has to support; and- preparing rest means (13) and resting them on, or attaching them to, said beams (11) in order to create a horizontal walkable surface on which the personnel assigned to said work can walk safely, characterized in that each of said beams (11) has a height (Hl) comprised between 200 mm and 300 mm, preferably of 250 mm, and in that said two longitudinal elements (16, 17) and said one or more intermediate elements ( 18) have sizes such as to allow each of said beams ( 11 ) to support a load of up to 9.0 kN / m, as a function of the value of said center distance (I).

21. Method as in claim 20, characterized in that said center distance (I) ispreferably a multiple of 0.5 m and is even more preferably 1.0 m, 1.5 m, 2.0 m, 3.0 m, 4.0 m, 5.0 m. or 6.0 m and in that when said center distance (1) is 1.0 m, said load is 9.0 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 1.5 m, said load is 6.0 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 2.0 m, said load is 4.5 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 2.5 m, said load is 3.6 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 3.0 m, said load is 3.0 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 4.0 m, said load is 2.2 kN / m; when said center distance (I) is 5.0 m, said load is 1.8 kN / m; and when said center distance (I) is 6.0 m, said load is 1 .4 kN / m.

22. Method as in claim 20 or 21 , characterized in that it also comprises a lifting step in which one of said beams ( 1 1 ) to be installed is lifted with a suspended guide(132) coupled to said elevated part (201), or one or two of said beams (11) to be installed are lifted with two suspended guides (132) and said beams (11) to be installed are then positioned in association with at least one of said beams (1 1) already installed.

23. Method as in claim 20, 21 or 22, characterized in that it also comprises a connection step in which a new one of said beams (1 1) is connected to one of said beams (11) already installed using connection means (30), chosen as a function of the type of said beams (11) used and their layout.

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