Segmented Building Frame Structure for Scaffold Installation

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Solution Overview

Problem

The installation of frame structures within openings of outer building walls is impractical using traditional scaffolds due to safety concerns and the bulkiness of the frame structures, which often require the use of lifting platforms with limited height capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A frame structure comprising a base transverse element with a thermally insulating mat and a reinforcement panel, along with guides that allow lateral elongated elements to be coupled and slid into place, enabling assembly directly within the opening and reducing bulk for easier installation with traditional scaffolds.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional scaffolds are used for installation, then safety is improved, but the frame structure becomes too bulky to install within the opening

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation safetyVSAvoidframe structure bulk

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structure is divided into multiple separate elements (base transverse element, lateral elongated elements, transverse elements) that can be installed individually through the opening and then assembled together on-site, reducing the bulk of each individual component that needs to be maneuvered through the opening while maintaining the overall structural integrity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lateral elongated elements are designed to be inserted within the opening and coupled to the base transverse element, with subsequent transverse elements being installed and coupled in a sequential nested manner, allowing compact installation through the opening while building up the complete frame structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Productivity

If pre-assembled frame structure is used, then installation speed is improved, but the bulk and weight make it difficult to maneuver into position

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation speedVSAvoidframe structure bulk

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The frame structure is segmented into multiple elements that can be manufactured separately with standard dimensions, transported easily to the site, and then assembled in-situ within the opening, combining the benefits of pre-manufacturing with ease of installation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The elements are prepared in advance with coupling devices and insulation materials pre-attached, but the actual assembly into the complete frame structure occurs in-situ after all elements are positioned, allowing preliminary preparation without creating maneuvering difficulties

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of operation

If lifting platforms are used to install the frame structure, then installation capability is improved, but the equipment cost and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation capabilityVSAvoidequipment complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By dividing the frame structure into smaller elements that fit within the constraints of traditional scaffold reach, the need for complex lifting platforms is eliminated, allowing use of simpler, more cost-effective traditional scaffolding equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of bringing the complete frame structure to the opening and installing it from the outside, the invention inverts the approach by installing elements from the inside of the opening outward, allowing work to be done from a stable platform within the building rather than requiring external lifting equipment

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

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

This solution allows for quick and simple installation of the frame structure within the building wall opening, enabling the use of traditional scaffolds and reducing the need for high-reach lifting platforms, while providing thermal insulation and fire resistance.

Implementation Method 1

a base transverse element (9), which comprises a mat (10) made of a thermally insulating material

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Implementation Method 2

a reinforcement panel (11) integral with the mat (10)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectStructural reinforcement:

Implementation Method 3

each guide (12, 13) comprising a first coupling portion (25), which is shaped to couple with the respective lateral elongated element (14, 15)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectSliding coupling: Friction

Data Source

PatentEP4124715B1Frame structure for finishing and equipping an opening of an outer wall of a building and method of installation of said frame structure

Publication Date: 2025.04.16 ALPAC

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AI summary

A frame structure for finishing and equipping an opening of an outer wall of a building has a base transverse element (9), which comprises a mat (10) made of a thermally insulating material, a reinforcement panel (11) integral with the mat (10), and a pair of guides (12, 13), each of which is arranged at a respective end of the base transverse element (9); and a pair of lateral elongated elements (14, 15), each of which comprises a mat (16) made of a thermally insulating material and a reinforcement panel (17) integral with the mat (16), and is configured to couple with a respective guide (12, 13) so as to be mounted on the base transverse element (9).