Scaffolding Lifting Jib with Segmented Fixing Points

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional scaffolding handling systems lack ergonomics and safety, as operators must lean over railings to manage lifted elements, leading to potential falls and reduced efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A lifting stem with reversible fixing means positioned at the lower end and between a third and two-thirds of the vertical beam's height, allowing the beam to extend above the scaffolding's highest operational level, enabling safer and more ergonomic handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If reversible fixing means are positioned at the upper and lower ends of the vertical beam, then the jib can be securely fixed to the scaffolding, but the operator must lean over the guardrail to grasp the elements, creating a safety risk and ergonomic problem

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefixing securityVSAvoidoperator safety and ergonomics
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The fixing means are segmented into three distinct positions along the vertical beam: lower end, intermediate position (one-third to two-thirds height), and upper end. This segmentation allows the beam to emerge above the guardrail while maintaining secure fixing points, enabling the operator to grasp elements at a safe height without leaning over the rail.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The solution transitions from a two-point fixing system (upper and lower ends) to a three-point fixing system that includes an intermediate position. This dimensional change in the fixing arrangement allows the beam to extend above the guardrail level, creating a new spatial dimension for operator interaction that eliminates the need to lean over the rail.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the jib is mounted on existing scaffolding structure, then the handling function is achieved, but the working height of the operator is limited to below shoulder level, reducing ergonomics and safety

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvejib mounting capabilityVSAvoidoperator working height
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The vertical beam is designed with dynamic positioning capability, allowing it to be adjusted to different heights along the scaffolding post. The beam can be positioned at various heights using the three fixing means, enabling the operator to work at optimal heights rather than being constrained to a fixed position below shoulder level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The height parameter of the beam positioning is changed by utilizing the intermediate fixing means at one-third to two-thirds of the beam's height. This parameter change allows the beam to extend above the guardrail and reach above shoulder level, transforming the operator's working height from a limited below-shoulder position to a safer, more ergonomic height.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP4538480A1Device for handling elements involved in the realisation of scaffoldings or shoring towers
Publication Date: 2025.04.16 HARSCO INFRASTRUCTURE FRANCE
  • EP4538480A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4538480A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4538480A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

This device for handling elements (2, 3, 4) used in the construction of scaffolding or shoring towers or equivalent structures, consists of a lifting jib (5) capable of being reversibly attached to said scaffolding. This jib comprises at least one vertical beam (6) equipped with means for reversibly attaching it to the scaffolding. An extension (7), particularly a horizontal one, is attached to this beam. A lifting pulley or equivalent can be attached to the free end (8) of this extension. These reversible attachment means are positioned respectively at the lower end of the beam (6) and at a distance of between one-third and two-thirds of the beam's height. Furthermore, the vertical beam (6) is free of any other means of attachment to the scaffolding for approximately one-third of its upper portion.