Split-Collar Pipe-Suspended Scaffolding for Tight Plant Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional scaffolding requires floor space for support, which is limited in refineries and chemical plants due to extensive piping, and can damage pipelines when installed.
Innovation Solution
A scaffolding assembly that can be suspended from horizontally or vertically extending tubular members, using a split collar and yoke system to securely attach to pipes of varying diameters without causing damage, allowing for adjustable and flexible platform positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional scaffolding is installed on the floor, then it provides stable support, but it occupies valuable floor space in refineries and chemical plants
Solution Approach 1:
The scaffolding system transitions from floor-based support (horizontal plane) to pipe-based suspension (vertical dimension). By attaching platforms to overhead pipes through collars and yokes, the system utilizes the vertical space above the floor, effectively removing the scaffolding footprint from the valuable floor area while maintaining structural support through the pipe network.
Solution Approach 2:
The pipe network serves as an intermediary support structure between the building framework and the scaffolding platforms. Instead of directly installing scaffolding on the floor or building structure, the system uses existing pipes as intermediate carriers, allowing platforms to be suspended at various heights without occupying floor space.
2Area of stationary object
If scaffolding is directly attached to pipelines, then it enables suspension without floor space occupation, but it can cause scoring, notching or other damage to the pipe surface
Solution Approach 1:
A collar assembly acts as an intermediary between the scaffolding yoke and the pipe surface. The collar distributes the clamping force over a larger area of the pipe, preventing localized stress concentrations that would cause scoring or notching. This intermediate component protects the pipe while enabling secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar design changes the pressure distribution parameters by increasing the contact area between the attachment mechanism and the pipe surface. This reduces the pressure intensity (force per unit area) applied to the pipe, preventing surface damage while maintaining adequate holding force for suspension.
3Adaptability or versatility
If scaffolding is suspended from pipes of varying diameters, then it provides flexibility in installation locations, but it requires adaptable attachment mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assembly incorporates adjustable parameters including variable clamp widths and positionable bolt holes that accommodate different pipe diameters. By changing the geometric parameters of the collar (width, hole positions), the same basic attachment mechanism can securely fit pipes ranging from small to large diameters without requiring multiple specialized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The collar-yoke attachment system serves multiple functions: it adapts to various pipe diameters, provides secure clamping, allows vertical positioning adjustment, and maintains structural integrity. This universal attachment mechanism replaces the need for multiple specialized fixtures for different pipe sizes.
Data Source
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AI summary
A scaffolding assembly adapted to be releasably attached to an elongate support member such as an overhead pipe. The scaffolding assembly has a split collar and a platform assembly adapted to be releasably attached to the split collar. The split collar comprises at least two segments which can encircle the pipe and be secured to one another. The platform assembly which includes a platform deck has a connector formation which extends laterally outwardly from the deck to an extent that it can engage a receiving formation on the collar assembly and thereby attach the platform assembly to the collar assembly.