Wall Jack Strongback Coupler Scaffold Stability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Scaffolding is heavy, bulky, time-consuming to set up, and requires a firm, level surface for safe use, with the risk of slipping on uneven ground, posing safety hazards.

Innovation Solution

A wall jack system comprising a strongback coupler with a U-bracket and wedge, a horizontal arm, handrail holder, and support strut, which couples to a concrete form, allowing for secure and adjustable placement of scaffold planks, providing stability and safety on uneven surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional scaffolding is used, then work at elevated locations can be performed, but it is heavy and bulky to store and move

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of movementVSAvoidweight of scaffolding
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The scaffolding system is divided into modular components including adjustable legs, crossbars, and platform sections that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows for easier transportation and storage while maintaining structural integrity when assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention extracts and removes unnecessary bulk and weight from traditional scaffolding designs by using optimized structural members and minimizing excess materials while maintaining the essential function of providing elevated work access.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Productivity

If traditional scaffolding is used, then work at elevated locations can be performed, but it is time consuming to set up and adjust

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesetup speedVSAvoidtime to set up and adjust
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The scaffolding components are designed with pre-configured connection mechanisms and predetermined assembly sequences that allow for rapid setup. Critical components like adjustable legs and crossbars are pre-engineered with easy-connect features that eliminate time-consuming assembly steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The scaffolding incorporates adjustable and movable components that allow for quick adaptation to different heights and configurations. The dynamic adjustment capabilities enable the structure to be rapidly reconfigured for various work requirements without requiring complete disassembly.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional scaffolding is used, then work at elevated locations can be performed, but it requires a firm and level surface for placement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to surfacesVSAvoidsafety on uneven ground
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The scaffolding incorporates localized adaptation features such as adjustable feet and leveling mechanisms at the base components. These local quality enhancements allow the structure to accommodate uneven surfaces while maintaining overall stability and safety through targeted adjustments rather than requiring a perfectly level foundation throughout.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

4Stability of the object's composition

If blocks are placed beneath scaffolding feet to level it, then the scaffolding can be stabilized, but the scaffolding can slip off the blocks, increasing the likelihood of injury

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability of scaffoldingVSAvoidrisk of slipping
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The invention introduces intermediary components such as adjustable feet and leveling mechanisms that act as mediators between the scaffolding and the ground surface. These intermediaries provide a stable connection that eliminates the need for external blocking materials, thereby removing the slip hazard while maintaining stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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

Enables easy, safe, and efficient use of scaffolding by stabilizing it on uneven surfaces, reducing the risk of accidents and simplifying adjustments, thus enhancing safety and productivity in construction settings.

Implementation Method 1

a wedge (230) operable to tighten a coupling between the U-bracket (210) and the bolt (920)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWedge: Wedge

Data Source

PatentUS12049764B1Wall jack
Publication Date: 2024.07.30 LYLE II DAVID R
  • US12049764B1 patent drawing
  • US12049764B1 patent drawing
  • US12049764B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The wall jack may comprise a strongback coupler, a horizontal arm, a handrail holder, a support strut, and a support foot. The wall jack may be adapted to couple to a strongback of a concrete form. The strongback coupler may couple to the strongback by hanging on a bolt protruding from the strongback. The horizontal arm may extend away from the strongback coupler in a direction that is perpendicular to the concrete form. The support strut may brace the horizontal arm diagonally between a midpoint of the horizontal arm and the support foot pressing against the strongback at a location that is below the strongback coupler. The handrail holder may retain a handrail post in a vertical orientation. The wall jack may be used in groups of two or more to support scaffold planks or walk boards of a scaffold.