Scaffold Connector and Foldable Plans Table for Stable Work Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scaffolds lack a dedicated space for reviewing plans or documents and often require multiple units to be securely locked together for safe user access, leading to inefficiencies and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
A scaffold with a foldable plans table and a connector mechanism featuring a spring arm and pin arm that allows secure linking of multiple scaffolds, enabling stable, side-by-side assembly and efficient document viewing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If multiple scaffolds are placed side by side to cover larger areas, then the working area is expanded, but the safety and stability deteriorate due to movement between scaffolds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple scaffold units into a single integrated structure through connecting mechanisms that link the vertical legs of adjacent scaffolds. This merging eliminates the movement and instability that occurs when scaffolds are placed separately, while still providing access to larger working areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The scaffold is divided into modular units with standardized connecting interfaces. Each scaffold unit can be independently assembled and then securely connected to other units through the connecting mechanism, allowing the system to scale while maintaining stability through standardized joint design.
2Ease of operation
If plans or documents are placed on the deck of the scaffold, then document access is enabled, but the deck space for user standing is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension by incorporating a foldable table that can be raised from the deck. This allows documents to be viewed at an elevated position without occupying horizontal deck space, as the table can be folded flat against the deck when not in use.
Solution Approach 2:
The table is designed to be foldable and movable, transitioning between a flat configuration that maximizes deck space and an elevated configuration that provides document viewing capability. This dynamic design allows the same space to serve multiple functions at different times.
3Device complexity
If a single scaffold is used to access distant areas, then the structure remains simple, but the scaffold must be constantly moved reducing productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The scaffold system is segmented into multiple stable units that can be connected to form an extended structure. This eliminates the need to move a single scaffold to cover distant areas, as workers can simply move between connected units, thereby improving productivity while maintaining manageable structural complexity.
4Reliability
If connectors are added to lock scaffolds together, then safety and stability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting mechanism incorporates a spring-loaded arm that automatically engages with the pin arm when scaffolds are brought together. This self-service feature reduces the complexity of manual operation while ensuring reliable locking, as the spring mechanism provides automatic engagement and locking force without requiring complex control systems.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates easy document review and enhances safety by providing a dedicated space for plans and securely linking multiple scaffolds, allowing users to work over larger areas without moving individual units.
Implementation Method 1
a spring arm and a pin arm, which together positioned about a leg of the other scaffold to lock the scaffolds together
Data Source
AI summary
A scaffold having a structure assembly. The scaffold has a frame attached to the assembly. The frame having a deck upon which a user can stand that is disposed inside the rectangle. The deck has a plans table. The plans table has a closed position in which the plans table is flat and can support a weight of a user standing on the plans table, and has an open position in which the plans table is at an angle on which plans, drawings or documents can be placed on the plans table for viewing by a user standing on ground. A scaffold having connectors. A method of using a scaffold. A method for connecting a first scaffold to a second scaffold. A method for making a scaffold with connectors. A method for making a scaffold having a plans table.