Self-climbing modular edge protection system

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing solutions for temporary edge protection of civil works under construction require 'in-situ' and customized assembly, followed by disassembly and reassembly at higher levels, lacking modularity and self-climbing capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A self-climbing modular system with two bases fixed in cantilever to a slab level, featuring uprights with guided vertical displacement and lifting means, allowing independent lifting between slab levels, along with articulated handrails and a safety net, enabling modular and efficient protection without the need for repeated assembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If traditional edge protection systems are assembled at each level, then the protection can be customized to fit specific site requirements, but the assembly time and labor costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization to site requirementsVSAvoidassembly time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The protection system is divided into modular components (bases, uprights, handrails, screens) that can be pre-assembled at ground level and then lifted to different floors. This segmentation allows for rapid deployment while maintaining adaptability, as modules can be configured to suit specific site requirements without time-consuming on-site assembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables preliminary assembly of protection modules at ground level before being lifted to installation positions. The bases are fixed to slabs in advance, and the modular components are prepared beforehand, eliminating the need for time-consuming customization and assembly at each floor level.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Ease of repair

If traditional protection systems are disassembled and reassembled at higher levels, then the same equipment can be reused, but the repeated assembly increases labor costs and assembly time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvereusability of equipmentVSAvoidassembly efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system features self-climbing capabilities where the protection modules can be lifted and repositioned to higher levels without requiring complete disassembly and reassembly. The bases remain fixed to slabs while the modular components can be independently repositioned, enabling the system to serve itself across multiple levels and significantly improving productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system transitions from a static, fixed-position protection structure to a dynamic system that can be easily repositioned vertically. The modular design with fixed bases and movable components allows the protection system to adapt to different floor levels dynamically, maintaining reusability while eliminating repeated assembly operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If modular components are used for edge protection, then the system becomes easier to assemble and relocate, but the structural integrity and stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assembly and relocationVSAvoidstructural integrity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The modular components are merged with the building structure through bases that are fixed to the slabs. This combination ensures that while the handrails and screens remain modular for easy assembly and relocation, the overall system maintains structural integrity through its integration with the concrete structure via the fixed bases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentEP4450737A1Self-climbing modular system for the protection of civil works and buildings under construction
Publication Date: 2024.10.23 ULMA C Y E CORP
  • EP4450737A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4450737A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4450737A1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a self-climbing modular system for the protection of civil works and buildings under construction, comprising two bases (2) fixed in cantilever with respect to a slab (F) level, with each one provided at its free end with a support (5) on which an upright (1) is arranged with the possibility of guided vertical displacement with respect to the base (2) and the slab (F) level on which the base (2) is fixed, a plurality of handrails (3) articulated at their ends linking together two uprights (1) of one and the same module or of contiguous modules located at one and the same slab (F) level, and lifting means (M) for independently lifting the uprights (1) between two slabs (F1, F2) located at two different levels in such a way that upon actuating said lifting means (M), the corresponding upright (1) rises in a unidirectional manner due to the action of the corresponding support (5).