Adjustable Scaffold Base for Obstruction Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional scaffolding systems are inadequate for environments with ground level obstructions, such as churches and stadiums, as they cannot accommodate uneven surfaces and are not tall enough to reach high ceilings, leading to high labor and equipment costs for custom solutions.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable scaffold base with elongated primary legs, lateral beams, and frame beams that can be adjusted to straddle obstructions, supported by auxiliary legs with casters for easy movement, allowing conventional scaffold towers to be erected above ground level obstructions and reaching high ceilings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional frame-scaffolding is used, then the structure is simple and easy to erect, but it cannot accommodate ground level obstructions and requires custom-built tube-and-clamp scaffolding which is prohibitively expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The scaffold base incorporates adjustable components that allow dynamic adaptation to different ground conditions. The base can be configured with different leg spacing and heights to accommodate obstructions, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to site-specific requirements without requiring custom-built solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a universal scaffold base design that can accommodate various ground level obstructions and surface conditions using standard scaffolding components. This multi-functional base allows conventional scaffold towers to be erected in diverse environments without requiring specialized custom-built structures.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional scaffold towers are used, then the equipment is standard and readily available, but the legs cannot be adjusted sufficiently to accommodate uneven surfaces up to 45 inches out of level
Solution Approach 1:
The scaffold base is segmented into adjustable components including individual leg sections and base plates that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the structure to accommodate uneven surfaces up to 45 inches out of level by adjusting each segment's position, while maintaining compatibility with standard scaffold components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the adjustable parameters of the scaffold base, including leg spacing, height, and angle, to accommodate various ground conditions. These parameter adjustments allow conventional scaffold towers to adapt to uneven surfaces without requiring non-standard components, maintaining ease of manufacture while improving adaptability.
3Length of stationary object
If scaffold frames are made wider to support taller structures, then the height capacity increases, but the base becomes more complex and difficult to maneuver around obstructions
Solution Approach 1:
The scaffold base uses dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the leg spacing and configuration to be changed based on the surrounding environment. This enables the structure to maintain sufficient height capacity while being maneuverable around obstructions, as the base can be reconfigured rather than being fixed in a wide configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The base structure is divided into separable components that can be independently positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows the scaffold to achieve the necessary height while maintaining maneuverability, as individual segments can be arranged to fit around obstructions without requiring a permanently wide frame configuration.
Data Source
AI summary
An adjustable scaffold base for straddling ground level obstructions, such as church pews and other fixed, ground level structures, and supporting an upwardly-extending scaffold tower thereon. The scaffold base incorporates four legs and four elevated, height-adjustable cross beams that allow a scaffold tower to be erected above the height of many fixed, ground level structures. The erected base and tower thereby allow workers to access elevated areas within high-ceilinged buildings, such for performing ceiling repairs, painting, and changing light bulbs.