AU2010203042A1

AU2010203042A1 - Overhead protective structure

Info

Publication number: AU2010203042A1
Application number: AU2010203042A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Christopher Leslie Jones
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2007-12-17
Filing date: 2010-07-16
Publication date: 2010-08-12

Description

A ustralian Patents Act 1990 - Regulation 3.2 ORIGINAL COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT Invention Title: Overhead protective structure The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me: P/00/01 1 5951 C.\NRPorabl\DCC\WXK\3069%2 1.DOC-15/07/2010 OVERHEAD PROTECTIVE STRUCTURE The present invention relates to a temporary overhead protective structure (OPS) that provides safety to the public. More particularly, though not exclusively, the invention 5 relates to a temporary structure that provides overhead protection for pedestrians from falling objects while walking on a footpath that adjoins a construction site, a demolition site, or adjoining a building or other structure that may require maintenance work. Background of the Invention 10 Temporary overhead protective structures are commonly found in a city environment where many pedestrians require access to footpaths. There are various methods currently being used for erecting overhead temporary protective structures. The traditional types in Australia include the use of scaffolding, modular steel structures, timber structures, site 15 specific structural steel structures with timber decking; all with a protective deck above ground level to separate the construction site from the public space. Usually part of the overhead protective structure capacity may be used to support construction materials and portable amenity buildings. Where there are separate amenity 20 buildings loaded onto the deck, there are two decks or floors, that is, the amenity building floor and the supporting safety deck or floor. Currently the workers in the amenity buildings are not usually given the same level of overhead protection from falling objects as pedestrians at footpath level. The current 25 amenities are usually prefabricated buildings with only a thin corrugated metal roof with the walls of lightweight metal or timber framing. Time is critical to build or erect the overhead protective structures and to then connect amenities. Some systems require a significant amount of special fabrication or many parts 30 are to be connected at night during limited time periods to avoid traffic and when the least number of pedestrians are present. The amenity-prefabricated buildings are usually C.\NRPornb\DCC\WXH 069962- IDOC-15/07/2010 -2 delivered on another similar separate occasion and lifted into position after the overhead protective structure has been inspected and certified by an engineer. Final connection for amenities and use is usually days or even weeks after the initial overhead protective structure is initially erected. 5 The present invention seeks to provide an alternative temporary overhead protective structure that overcomes or substantially ameliorates at least one of the above disadvantages. 10 Summary of the Invention In accordance with one aspect the present invention provides an overhead protective structure for providing protection to pedestrians located on a walkway adjacent a construction site, the overhead protective structure including: 15 a modular structural element including a base surface, side wall portions and a roof element, a plurality of support members that supports the modular structural element above the walkway at a height which allows pedestrians to pass underneath the modular structural element, and, 20 a fence element located along the side of the walkway adjacent the construction site. In one form, the modular structural element is in the form of a shipping container. In another form the structure includes support members located on the side of the walkway 25 adjacent the construction site and support members located on the other side of the walkway wherein the fence element is coupled to the support members located on the side adjacent the construction site. In a preferred form the support members are adjustable in height such that the support members can support the modular structural element at a level horizontal height even when the walkway surface or other ground surface is not level. 30 In one form the support members include a male coupling element adapted to cooperate C\NRPortbl\DCC\WXH\3069%2I DOC-15/07/2010 -3 with an existing female coupling element located on the base surface of the shipping container. In a preferred form, the male coupling element engages the female coupling element of the shipping container by placing the male coupling member in the corresponding female coupling member and rotating the male coupling member which 5 thereby engages within a flange located within the female coupling member. According to another form, the structure further includes one or more brace members that are coupled at one end to the base of the modular structural element and coupled at the other end part way down the one or more support members. 10 According to a further form, more than one overhead protective structure is joined together in a modular fashion whereby the modular structural members include open end portions that form a continuous corridor suspended above the walkway. In a preferred form, at least one overhead protective structure that includes a modular structural member including one 15 open end portion and one closed end portion thereby closing the continuous corridor at one end. According to another form, the modular structural member includes amenities within its side wall portions. In a preferred form the amenities are located in the modular structural 20 member before the structural member forms part of the overhead protective structure. In one form, the overhead protective structure further includes a suspended and/or cantilevered walkway located at substantially the same level as the base surface of the modular structural member, the suspended walkway extending on either the construction 25 site side, and/or the walkway side of the modular structural member and running in the same direction as the walkway. In a further form, the overhead protective structure further includes a protective deck provided between the modular structural element and the plurality of support members. In 30 one form, the plurality of support members couple to the protective deck which is in turn coupled to the modular structural element whereby the modular structural member may be C\NRPorb\DCC\WXH\3069%2 1.DOC-150/7/2010 -4 removed leaving the protective deck in place maintaining protection for pedestrians located on the walkway. In one form, the protective deck is substantially the same size as the base surface of the modular structural element. 5 According to another aspect, the present invention provides an assembly for use with an overhead protective structure, the assembly including: a modular structural element including a base surface, side wall portions and a roof element; and a protective deck coupled to the underside of the base surface of the modular structural element. In one form, the modular structural element is in the form of a shipping container. 10 In one form, the assembly may be transported to a construction site and a plurality of support members positioned and coupled to the protective deck to support the protective deck at a height which allows pedestrians to pass underneath the protective deck thereby forming an overhead protective structure. 15 In one form, the protective deck includes a plurality of receiving portions for receiving and retaining the plurality of support members. In another form, the modular structural element may be removed and uncoupled from the protective deck leaving the protective deck in situ. 20 According to another aspect the present invention provides a method of erecting an overhead protective structure for providing protection to pedestrians located on a walkway adjacent the construction site, the method including the following steps: suspending a modular structural member including a base surface, side wall 25 portions and a roof element above the walkway; securing the modular structural member onto a plurality of support members that maintain the modular structural member suspended above the walkway; and, securing a fence element to the support members along the side of the 30 walkway adjacent the construction site.

C:\NRPortbl\DCC\WX11\3069%2_ I DOC-15/07/2010 -5 Brief Description of the Figures The present invention will become better understood from the following detailed description of a preferred but non-limiting embodiments thereof, described in connection 5 with the accompanying figures, wherein: Figure 1 is a part side elevation of an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is an end view of an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a cross section of an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is a close up cross sectional view of the bottom corner of one element of 10 an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is a plan view of the site fence element fixed to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 is a plan view of the site fence element fixed to an embodiment of the present invention; 15 Figure 7 an alternate method of fixing the cantilever walkway to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 is an end view of a further embodiment of the present invention; Figure 9 is an end view of another embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 is a plan view of an embodiment of the present invention; 20 Figure I I is a side elevation of a further embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12 is a cross sectional view of an element of the embodiment depicted in Figure 11; Figure 13 is a cross sectional view of a further element depicted in Figure 11; Figure 14 is a cross sectional view of an element depicted in Figure 13; 25 Figure 15 is a cross sectional view of a further element depicted in Figure 11; Figure 16 is a side elevation of an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 17 is a cross sectional view of an element depicted in Figure 18; and, Figure 18 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of the present invention being loaded onto a truck. 30 Detailed Description of the Invention and Preferred Embodiments C:\NRPortbl\DCC\WXH\3069962 .DOC-15O7/2010 -6 On accordance with certain embodiments the present invention provides an alternative overhead protective structure that has significant advantages over what has been typically used to date. In particular, and according to one embodiment, the overhead protective 5 structure of the present invention makes use of existing shipping containers and their significant structural properties to provide the basis of the overhead protective structure. As the shipping containers have a known structural integrity, it is possible to pre install any amenities within the containers prior to the overhead structure being delivered to a prospective building site and thereby avoid the need for a site inspection by structural 10 engineers necessary when constructing typical overhead structures. This factor significantly reduces the amount of time required before work can effectively start on a construction site. In addition in a preferred embodiment of the present invention the support members 15 includes a male coupling component in the form of an egg shaped head on top of the support. This egg shaped head is a corresponding shape to a locking component typically used on trucks conveying shipping containers for cargo purposes, and therefore provides use of the pre-existing corresponding female coupling component on the shipping container within the assembly of the overhead protective structure. The shaft usually 20 swivels in a mounting at four corner of a truck. When the container is lowered, the male components are turned like a key 90 degrees to lock into the female housing at each corner of container. The male components are often connected together with a tight cable all round so the locking is done all round while standing at one point. 25 In the embodiment of the present invention the male coupling component of the support member is welded on to the top of the support member. Therefore in order to lock the support member in coupling arrangement with the female component located on the shipping container, the male component is inserted therein and rotated 90 degrees into locking configuration. 30 The structure of the modular structural member can be fully fitted-out with worker C.\NRPorbl\DCCWXH\3069962 1.DOC- 15/07/2010 -7 amenities prior to delivery on site to be erected as part of the overhead protective structure. The amenities may include toilets, showers, first aid room, site office, worker lunchroom, meeting room, etc. Some elements may be open decks and not be enclosed so that construction materials can be loaded and stored on an open deck above the overhead 5 protective structure protecting. A preferred form of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to figures 1 to 7, wherein: Figure 1 is a part side-elevation of the temporary overhead protective structure in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. 10 Item I included in the figures is a pavement, footpath, walkway or similar firm ground support for the structure. In the present embodiment the footpath or walkway is adjoining a demolition, construction or building maintenance site (not shown). 15 Item 2 referred to in the figures is a modular structural unit which in this embodiment is a shipping container. There are several shipping containers that make up the structure depicted in figure 1, and each of these may be optionally internally fitted out with site amenities. In accordance with a preferred form, some of the shipping containers do not include end walls such that the containers joined end on end form a continuous corridor. 20 Item 3 is a support member in the form of an extendible post that may be twist-locked into standard locking points of said item 2. Item 3 may be bolt fixed to item 6 when delivered to site. Item 3 and usually item 5 are ideally equally spaced on the site side and may be clustered kerb side to provide more open appearance. The adjustable nature of the support 25 members provides that the overhead protective structure may still be erected and provide a level overhead structure even if the walkway or footpath is uneven. Where the footpath or walkway, item 1, is sloping such as on an incline or hill, it may be necessary to step adjoining shipping containers, item 2, as depicted in Figure 1, thus providing a step within the continuous corridor between two adjacent shipping containers, item 2. 30 The height of the support members, item 3 or 5, is sufficient such that the shipping C:\NRPonbl\DCC\WXH\3069%2I DOC-IS/07/2010 -8 containers are elevated to a height above the walkway or footpath, item 1, such that pedestrians can comfortably walk underneath the shipping containers, item 2. In a preferred form, the height of the support members is at least 2.0 meters and preferably at least 2.4 meters. 5 Item 4 is a connection item that usually facilitates the twist-lock motion of item 3 to lock on to item 2. Typically though not necessarily, this fixing method is an adaptation of a standard shipping container locking-device. 10 Item 5 is a further support member in the form of an extra extendible post that is usually provided with an angle cleat that is fixed on site to the bottom edge of the shipping container, item 2. These are often used so the structure can be designed to allow for any one post to be removed and the structure still remains stable under reduced design loads. 15 Item 6 is a brace member in the form of a commonly known knee brace structure and may be attached to increase lateral load capacity of the overhead protection structure by bolt fixing to the underside floor of the shipping container, item 2. Item 6 is knee-bracing that is usually in the form of a steel angle that is delivered to site bolt fixed to item 3 and may be item 5, then bolted to item 2. 20 Item 7 is a coupler usually in the form of a profiled steel strap, a backing plate and bolts for clamping adjoining posts together, locking the system together even if the decks of the adjoining shipping containers, item 2, are stepped as shown in figure 1. The coupler, item 7 provides additional rigidity to the overall structure. Item 8 is a counterweight, sometimes 25 used to stabilize the structure from overturning under wind and other forces that may act on the overhead protection structure. Referring specifically to Figure 2 there is shown an end view of said system showing knee bracing between the support members, item 3, and the underside of the shipping container 30 item 2 in an orthogonal direction.

C \NRPorbl\DCC\WXH\3069962 1 DOC-15/07/2010 -9 Referring specifically to figure 3 there is shown a cross section through the middle of the shipping container item 2 and between support members 3 showing an attached cantilevered walkway. Item 9 is a set of beams that support the walkway which in this embodiment are attached to the underside of item 2. Item 10 is a handrail that is site 5 attached to item 9. Referring now specifically to figure 4, there is shown a close up cross sectional view of the bottom corner of said shipping container, item 2, at completion of erection (not including view of cantilevered walkway). The components of the fence element, item 15 and item 10 16, in the form of a site fence are shown below the corner of item 2. Referring to Figure 5 there is shown a plan view of the site fence preferred fixing method to said item 3 and item 5 prior to locking thereon. Figure 6 is a plan view of the site fence preferred fixing method to item 3 and item 5 after locking on, usually by tightening a bolt. 15 Item 11 shown in these figures is an angle on each side of post, item 3 or 5, each with a welded end cleat for a bolted connection to item 13. Item I1 may be a short length at each item 14 fixing-point or an angle may extend down to ground to provide added support for fence during site installation. Item 12 is a bolt that allows rotation of fence girt fixing mechanism and clamps the site fence to items 3 and 5 when tightened. Item 13 is a double 20 angle that is single bolted to said end cleats. The single bolt allows item 13 to rotate to align with item 14 so item 14 does not need to be level or perpendicular to items 3 and 5. Item 14 is usually a z-purlin, also known as a girt, that may be overlapped for site adjustment of length. Self-tapping screws may be used to fix sections together at splice. Item 15 is a panel that is usually structural plywood and is usually fixed to item 14 using 25 self tapping screws. Item 16 is similar to item 15, except on opposite side of item 3 and item 5, near top of same. Item 17 is a pressed metal sheet, profiled to close off gap between items 15 and 16, sloped to avoid rubbish accumulation and screw fixed to above said items. 30 Item 18 is a handrail located on the roof of the shipping container, item 2, which may be used to confine falling objects and to be a safety barrier for workers.

C\NRPotbl\DCC\WXH3069%62_1 DOC-15/07/2010 -10 Referring to figure 7 there is depicted an alternate method of fixing the cantilever walkway to the safety structure, referred to as a "strutted deck" wherein item 19 is a knee-brace that supports the walkway and exerts lateral forces on to item 3 and item 5 which are usually 5 equally spaced adjoining the site. Item 20 is a tie member usually locked into the shipping container locking device at item 3 and a similar manufactured connection at midspan of item 2. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a method of erecting the 10 overhead protective structure is described as follows: After the shipping container delivery arrives on site, the cantilever walkway beams with or without the decking may be attached prior to lifting each container into position. When the container is lifted into position, it is held in suspension until all posts supporting the unit are twist-locked or cleat-bolted into position. This is followed by post knee-bracing being 15 fixed and the posts extended to reach ground level. Once the container is supported on posts, the optional cantilever walkway and optional site fence is completed. One of the elements of the system is the use of shipping containers which are widespread, robust and can be rapidly fixed into position. The shipping containers can be fitted-out 20 with amenities, critical for workers and at the same time provide protection to the public on the footpath below. The present invention saves on the amount of specialised component parts and fabrication required for an overhead protective structure for public on the footpath. A separate deck is 25 now not normally required in locations where amenities are provided. In these areas only the posts and knee-bracing (or a portal frame) require fabrication as well as the optional cantilevered walkway, the optional site fence and other component parts to make the system more versatile. 30 With previous forms of overhead protective structure, there is an initial separate delivery of the overhead protective structure. The structure was then inspected and certified by an C NRPonibl\DCC\WXM3O69962_1 DOC-15/07/2010 engineer before approval is granted from the local authority to deliver amenity buildings and for loading onto the deck. Advantageously in a preferred form of the present invention the amenities are housed 5 within the modular structural units with known structural integrity. This allows the connection of services to occur at almost same time as the structural assembly of the overhead protective structure. Accordingly, the present invention should reduce the number of truck deliveries and / or delivery times compared to existing methods to complete the safety structure and install amenities. Therefore this should lead to faster 10 completion of the required protective structure, delivering 'days earlier' occupation and use of site office, first aid room and amenities by workers. In addition, the old method of unsightly exposed amenity buildings can now no longer be seen above the traditional I m high handrail or a preferred aspect of the present invention. 15 For prestigious projects, optional advertising banners may be easily fixed to the side of the 2.4m high shipping container sides. Alternately the more robust corrugated facade finish of the container sides can be clad with structural plywood or steel plate to provide a more aesthetic finish to the overhead protective structure. 20 One method of stacking modified shipping containers one above the other on the ground creates difficulties: double truck delivery; unnecessary footpath ramps that restrict disabled access; trip hazard for side entry to the protection zone; no easy solution to make units level on a sloping footpath (often in both directions); the floor of the shipping container potentially blocks access-lids to essential utility services under footpath; blocks access for 25 concrete pump-lines that require crossing the footpath, etc. Currently overhead protection is provided only to pedestrians at footpath level, but the same protection is not usually extended to the workers in the amenity buildings. The shipping containers and associated robust elements of the present invention are able to 30 provide improved overhead protection to workers in the elevated amenities located within the modular structural elements of the present invention. The system has independently C:\NRPrtbl\DCC\WXH3069962 I DOC.I1/07/2010 - 12 adjustable support members in the form of posts for uneven ground and can be stepped for sites adjoining steep road gradients. In further preferred features of the present invention modified elements can provide open 5 decks for storage of construction materials, or made with reduced deck-width to accommodate trees, light poles, etc. A set of handrails can relatively easily be fitted to roof of container to confine falling objects bouncing off roof of amenities, not usually currently provided. 10 In further preferred forms, the modular structural elements in the form of shipping containers that are now supported on posts eliminate problems created by merely stacking shipping containers placed directly on the ground because: there is less number of truck deliveries required; this eliminates the problems of required ramps; this eliminates the problems of levelling the containers when on the usual sloping footpaths, often sloping in 15 two directions; this eliminates the problem of blocked access lids to utility services. In accordance with a further embodiment of the present invention a protective deck may be attached to a modular structural element, such as a shipping container. The modular structural element may include various amenities in order to achieve the same objective of 20 fast amenity delivery and use of an overhead protective structure at a building constructions site. According to an embodiment it may be desirable to provide support members, or posts, that are re-locatable or removable if required to satisfy a local authority's particular 25 requirements and/or aesthetics or to avoid post loads on utility service lids in footpath. Some removable posts are provided with lateral racking load capacity or flexural bending capacity. Other removable posts may only provide vertical load capacity. The present invention provides a protective deck with the flexibility to have different spandrel spans ranging from Im to 5m. The most common spandrel span is 3m to suit half-length of a 30 standard shipping container. Other container derivative floor plan dimensions may be used.

C.\NRPonbl\DCCWX)f\3069%2 1.DOC-I5/07/2010 - 13 This embodiment focuses on a neat street appearance while being a functional overhead safety device integrated with simultaneous delivery of site amenities adjoining a construction, demolition or building maintenance site. 5 In particular, this embodiment of the present invention does not require knee-bracing of the support members, or posts, which significantly improves the aesthetic appearance. In addition, the embodiment has increased post load capacity and robustness compared to other existing prefabricated systems as well as the flexibility to re-position post locations with a reduction in the number of post-stubs hanging from deck when post is shifted, to 10 improve neatness and appearance. The installation of new posts by using often only one bolt fixing provides the installation is easy, quick and efficient and delivery of amenities at the same time as the overhead protective structure, reducing the number of delivery-day applications to the local authority which creates the potential for earlier site office and amenity use overcoming the difficulties of: fixing temporary bracing for a high facia; 15 removing bracing to install site sheds, subsequently re-fixing bracing to the site sheds; and then re-fixing bracing again to deck along length of street after site shed removal. These difficulties are overcome by replacing the high facia by using rigid boxes or containers, elevated on adjustable posts above the ground. 20 In accordance this embodiment the present invention provides an overhead protective structure that provides protection for pedestrians on a walkway adjacent to a construction or demolition site. More specifically, the embodiment includes: 25 A protective deck that may or may not be delivered to site already fixed to a modular structural element. This modular structural element may be in the form of a shipping container and fixed to the protective deck using standard shipping container corner locking blocks that are an integral part of and fixed to the protective deck. The protective deck, with or without the modular structural element (optionally fitted out with amenities), is 30 held in suspension on a set of support members, or posts, to form a safe thoroughfare for pedestrians underneath.

CANIRPort0)C\WXH\30699621 DOC-15/07/2010 - 14 A plurality of support posts that support this protective deck are positioned in preferred locations, but with flexibility to position posts in other locations with a minimum number of post-stubs left hanging off the protective deck or other unsightly fixing components, 5 other than bolt holes. By using a protective deck that usually matches the overall plan dimensions of a standard shipping container, the support posts are adjustable vertically to suit site topography and adjustable in plan position to suit street appearance and on-site conditions. An example is 10 to be able to shift a post on site to avoid a post load on a utility services lid and still deliver a neat street appearance. The embodiment makes provision for fewer post-stubs left hanging where posts need to be moved. In accordance with at least one local authority requirements, the system is designed for any 15 one post to be removed without deck collapsing. In one form, the modular structural element is in the form of a fully fitted out shipping container with site amenities that is usually though not exclusively supported on an exact fitting protective deck, usually delivered to site attached underneath the modular structural 20 element. This way, when the modular structural element including the amenities is removed from site, the protective deck may be left in position on site. In another form, the delivery may be a protective deck only, to be held in suspension on a similar set of support posts. 25 The support member / post may include a system of telescopic male and female splice insert members to connect post segments together at various locations along the height of the post, including splicing into the stub-columns fixed to the protective deck. According to another form of this present invention, the posts are adjustable in position 30 along the spandrel beams, with some posts designed to resist vertical loads only and other posts designed to resist vertical and horizontal raking loads. When these posts and C:\NRPorbh/DCC\WXI03D696 1 DOC-15/07/2010 - 15 associated joint connections are removed, only drilled holes will be visible, leaving a neat appearance. In one form, one way of delivering and erecting the overhead protective structure with 5 amenities on site is: " To deliver the protective deck with the modular structural element including any desired amenities fixed together at a factory or depot. The modular structural element may be a shipping container. 10 e To lift and hold the combined assembly suspended above the footpath while the legs are then installed by telescopic splicing. The post segments may be moved into position using a trolley and held vertical while the deck is lowered to fully engage at each splice and fixed with a locking pin or bolt prior to lifting, to add another post segment. This sequence is simultaneously repeated until all posts are installed. 15 * Extra drill holes in the spandrel beam will be provided to easily accommodate and shift position of the vertically-loaded-only posts on site if there is a clash with utility service lids discovered on site. The post segment join or telescopic splice usually consists of smaller hollow steel section (male component) snugly fitting 20 inside an outer hollow steel section (female component). To achieve a snug fit, angle packing elements may be fixed to the corners of the inner sleeve to make a smooth snug slide until the outer sections butt up and bear together to transfer compression load. All spliced post joins are usually bolted or pinned to maintain fixity. Ideally the preferred option is to use the stub post sections or sockets that are 25 securely fixed to deck prior to delivery. The rigid moment resisting fixings usually have welded gussets (Item 6 in Figures 11, 12, 13, 14 and 17) to improve moment capacity. A further embodiment of the present invention is now described with reference to Figures 30 8 to 18. Reference to item numbers I through to item 37 in the following description only C-NRPob\DCC\WXH\3069962_ .DOC-15/07/2010 - 16 refer to those items appearing in Figures 8 to 18 and do not correspond to the same item numbers in previous Figures 1 to 7. Referring to Figure 8, there is shown a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of one form 5 the present invention. It contains the support posts 3, 5 and the protective deck 25. Another form of the present invention is to house locking devices within the depth of the primary protective deck for fixing other modules that may be in the form of another deck staked for transport or the amenity box container. There are other secondary elements shown in Figure 8 like handrails 10. 10 Figure 9 is another form of the invention being the same structure as Figure 8 except that the primary protective deck 25 is locked on to and supports an modular structural element amenity box or container, as delivered from factory or depot. Another form may be that the protective deck and modular structural element are supported and locked onto a portal 15 frame consisting of a set of cross-beams and posts, using similar post splicing system. This later form allows the amenity box to be removed from site and still leave the protective deck behind. Figure 10 is a schematic plan layout of the primary structural elements of the primary 20 protective deck. There is an optional under slung deck strengthening beam (Item 30), that strengthens the deck for increased post spacing. This beam may be on one or both sides of deck. Figure 11 is an elevational view of the protective deck without the amenity box or 25 container fixed to the deck. The view shows how the protective deck can be supported in a variety of ways on posts to suit appearance required by the local authority. Some local authorities may accept posts at 3m centres, with the protective deck having the flexibility to adjust post locations to satisfy local authority requirements or local site conditions. The same protective deck may span in the order of up to 5m by attaching an under slung 30 strengthening beam at depot, prior to delivery to site. The length of the stub post sections fixed to the protective deck will allow the subject beam to clear the flat bed of the delivery C.\NRPowbl\DCC\WXIf3G69%2 1.DOC-15/07/2010 - 17 truck. A locking component will be manufactured to fix to truck's shipping-container locking-points. Refer to Fig 18. Figure 12 is a sectional view of the corner of the deck showing the standard shipping 5 container locking box, Item 4 fixed within the depth of the deck. The locking box is for the amenity container or for another deck to be locked on, stacked on truck for transport. This comerjunction is also fully welded with stub-post and gussets (Item 6). Figure 13 is usually located midway along the spandrel beam at the intersecting cross 10 beam Item 22. The significance of this figure is that the easily-removable-connection (or saddle-bracket) provides: Lateral raking flexural moment capacity as well as vertical load capacity; a stub post for easy attachment for the post extension on site; and, the ability to remove connection bracket, leaving a streamlined clear view of the spandrel beam without an unsightly hanging stub-post. 15 Figure 14 is the same fixed connection junction as Fig 13, showing an orthogonal view. Figure 15 is a sectional view of a vertical load-only post (Item 5), connected to spandrel beams. Only punched holes need be provided in spandrels for one bolt fixing. This detail is 20 typically used to attach item 5 to item 20. Figure 16 is the assembled elevational view of the fixed together modular structural unit (shown in the form of a shipping container), protective deck and under slung strengthening beam. 25 Figure 17 is an assembly view of the protective deck locking on to locking pins located on the flat bed of a truck for transportation. Figure 11 is an elevational view of the composite protective deck and modular structural 30 unit (in the form of a shipping container) being lowered on to the flat bed of a delivery truck.

C.\NRPortbN)COWXH\3069902 1.DOC- I/07/2010 - 18 Referring to figures 8 to 18, the overhead protective structure depicted therein has significant advantages for offering much earlier establishment of a temporary site office, toilets, showers, first aid room, meeting room, lunch room, etc., when there is no space on 5 site except over the footpath. The arrangement also avoids the need to temporarily brace high facias before site sheds are delivered, lifted and installed; re-support the high facia on the site sheds; re-support the high facias after the sheds are removed by re-bracing to the deck (these braces obstruct the use of the deck); and, to make new location fixings for additional posts, saving site welds or on-site drilling for more bolts. 10 Referring specifically to the numbers items depicted in Figures 8 to 18, Item I is usually but not restricted to a footpath. Item 2 is a modular structural unit that may contain factory-fitted site amenities. The 15 modular structural unit is usually though not exclusively a shipping container fitted out with amenities. A traditional site shed could be used in-lieu of a shipping container. Item 3 is a square hollow steel section post that is made up of parts to facilitate on-site height adjustment. One part is usually pre-welded to the deck to form a stub-post. On-site 20 the next part has the top-end fitted with an inner smaller square hollow section for splicing snugly into the first. Although some square hollow sections do snugly slide inside each other, a packing angle may be fixed to each corner of the inner square hollow section for an improved a snug fit. At the lower end of Item 3, the inner square hollow section may extend out, manufactured with spaced bolt holes for height adjustment. 25 Item 4 is usually but not exclusively a standard shipping container locking block, fitted and welded into position within the depth of the protective deck at corners. Item 5 is a secondary post similar to Item 3, except the post is designed to only support 30 vertical load. Item 5 is usually fixed to spandrels and only requires one bolt to fix. The C:\NRPoh\DCCWXH\3069962I DOC-l150712010 - 19 protective deck may have several holes provided along length of Item 20 for easy post positioning to suit local on-site conditions. Item 6 is a gusset to strengthen the post-to-beam connection, usually in the form of part of 5 a square or rectangular steel hollow section to match width of post. The connection is usually fully welded and preferably ground flush. Item 7 is a coupling to fix posts together so that the deck acts as one. Where the adjoining decks are at same level, the decks may be fixed together using deck bolts. Refer to Item 17. 10 Item 8 is a counterweight usually but not exclusively of concrete. The site specific designer will need to nominate how many are required along length of decks. Item 9 is a cantilevered walkway that is site fixed to side of deck, strutted off the post. 15 Item 10 is a modular handrail or facia, site installed into position. Item 11 is usually a steel base plate to disperse post loads onto footpath or other firm support base. 20 Item 12 is a large threaded bar with end plate extending into the inner square section to make rigid and with a nut under end-plate for height adjustment. To keep threaded bar from falling out when component is handled on site, a hole is proposed in item 19 for inserting a temporary rod and to loop a strap around to include nut located below end plate. 25 To protect the threads, a circular hollow sleeve is to be welded inside end plate of item 19. Item 13 is a stiffener plate welded to Item 24. Item 14 is a strut to support the cantilevered walkway. 30 Item 15 is a hole drilled for on-site bolt installation.

CANRPorbl\DCC\WXH\3069%2 .DOC-15/07/2010 - 20 Item 16 is a cap plate to seal square hollow section. Item 17 is a bolt to join level decks together on site. The decks will be provided with a 5 steel plate between the flanges with a hole to hold the bolt more securely and transfer load. This bolt is an alternate solution to Item 7. Item 18 is an optional handrail on top of the shipping container, fitting when the building height reaches above the container. One of its purposes is to prevent any debris scattering 10 on to the footpath or road below. It is proposed to mount the handrail on a steel hollow section that acts as a torsion bar, held fixed onto the container locking points. Refer to Item 35. Item 19 is an inner square hollow section sleeve for splicing post segments together. To 15 improve snug fit between inner and outer hollow sections, steel angle sections may be fixed to corners of inner square hollow section. Item 20 is usually though not exclusively a parallel flange channel. This section allows easy fixing of Item 22 and post Items 3 and 5. 20 Item 21 is usually but not exclusively a rectangular hollow section or a parallel channel section of depth to match Item 20. Item 22 is the central deck cross beam. The preferred shape is a square or rectangular 25 shape the same depth as Item 21. The shape also makes a neat junction at Item 20 to fit a bolted snug-fitting moment-resisting saddle-bracket with stub-post for Item 3. Item 23, as shown in Fig 10, supports and reduces span of under slung deck strengthening-beam item 30. This is to limit depth of beam to minimize length of stub 30 posts fixed to deck for easier transport and stacking. Refer to Fig 15 and Fig 18.

C:NRPnbIlCC\WXK\3069962 I.DOC.l5/07/2010 -21 Item 24, as shown in Figure 12, is usually a parallel flange channel section that is fully welded to the connection block. It may be strengthened with a bottom flange plate. Item 25 is usually a steel floor plate that makes up the protective deck. 5 Item 26 is a set of bolts to connect the moment resisting elements Item 22 and Item 3. Item 27 is usually an unequal angle each side of Item 22. It is fully welded to Item 36 and stub element of Item 6 and Item 3. 10 Item 28 is a set of bolts to secure the moment resisting composite connection element to Item 20. Item 29 is usually a sloped cap plate to close off top of gusset Item 6. 15 Item 30, as shown in Fig 10 and 11, is the under slung deck strengthening beam that is only used when the spandrel (item 20) spans more than 3m. It is usually bolted in position prior to transportation to site. The ends are chamfered to approve appearance. 20 Item 31 is usually an unequal angle welded to cap plate (Item 16). Item 32 is a bolt to connect item 31 to Item 20. Item 33, as shown in Fig 12, is a steel angle with slotted holes in the horizontal leg to allow 25 easy fit of vertical leg to inside of web item 24. Item 34 are bolts to fix Item 30 to ltem 26 to strengthen deck if posts are spaced more than 3m. Item 35 is an optional torsion beam fixed to shipping container roof locking blocks. The 30 beam is to support the optional roof handrail.

C:\NRPortbl\DCC\WX1P\3069962_ DOC-15107/2010 -22 Item 36 is a cap plate. Item 37 in Fig 18 is a truck to standard container locking pin. The size of the locking block as shown in Fig 17 may be trimmed or manufactured to reduce the overall height. 5 As can be seen from Figures 17 and 18 standard shipping container locking blocks may be located within the overall depth of the prefabricated protective deck to facilitate snug container and deck attachment for simultaneous delivery to site. This is achieved because the protective deck matches the footprint dimensions of a standard shipping container or 10 derivative sizes thereof. This simultaneous delivery of overhead protection and site amenities should save days of construction time and frustration. A small number of special sized decks may be required to suit on-site layout. Because the container is delivered to the demolition or construction site, usually with a 15 container attached to the deck, this invention will deliver much earlier establishment of site operations. The containers may include: Site Office, First Aid Room, Change Room, Lunch Room, Showers and toilets, and/or Meeting Rooms. Some local authorities require post spacing up to 4m to 5m with a neat aesthetic 20 appearance. The present invention has incorporated a solution so that the same cost efficient deck can be used for many post location configurations with post spacing ranging from Im to 5m. Most common post spacing proposed is usually 3m, with ability to add more vertical load posts if required where fixed posts obstruct on site conditions. To achieve this flexibility, a set of vertical load only and moment resisting posts are proposed 25 that are removable, using neat bolted connections. Another aspect of the invention is to increase spandrel beam span, with the ability to remove any one post without the deck collapsing. This is achieved by usually fixing a strengthening-beam under the deck prior to site delivery. The size of beam is minimized by introduction of supplementary beams in the deck framing to reduce the design span. For 30 truck-delivery, this beam is required to have less depth than the stub post length. The C:\NRPortbl\DCCWXH\3069962_ DOC-15/07/2010 - 23 minimization of the stub post length fixed to deck is important for efficient transport and stacking. Figures 13 and 14 show another key component of this invention which is to retain, where 5 possible, the maximum number of posts to resist lateral raking forces by having moment capacity at removable posts when fixed at mid-spandrel deck point. To achieve this, this invention preferably has at least one stub-post at mid-point of spandrel beam on every deck removable by unbolting a saddle-bracket that contains the stub-post forming part thereof By removing usually six bolts, this then leaves only holes for a neat overall street 10 appearance of the structure. This action also makes provision for the deck to span 5m when a strengthening beam is fixed to underside one or both sides of the deck. The site side posts are ideally at 3m centers, so that the site fence has uniform post spacing whenever possible. 15 Figure 17 shows rectangular hollow steel section with angle packing to achieve a snug fit. Another form of the invention is to use part of a square or rectangular hollow steel section welded to form a fillet or gusset at beam-and-post joint to improve moment resistance and street appearance when central post is removed as well as allow the strengthening beam to 20 be closer to the supporting posts, otherwise obstructed by knee bracing. A overhead protective structure in accordance with this form may be delivered to site fixed to a protective deck to provide simultaneous overhead protection for pedestrians on footpath and on-site office and worker amenities, as well as modular structural unit (such 25 as a shipping container) on adjustable posts, in height and location, which removes the need for temporarily bracing and un-bracing a high facia. In addition, the arrangement provides the flexibility to remove the modular structural unit containing amenities at some stage, leaving a protective deck and scaffolding in place. 30 Summary of improvements created by this invention: 0 No knee-bracing where possible and replaced with gussets.

C:\NRPrtbliDCCWXlf\306992 .DOC- 15/07/2010 - 24 * Increased post load capacity compared to other prefabricated systems. * The new standard deck has many applications and many optional post locations. * Flexibility to re-position post locations with a reduction in the number of stub-posts hanging from deck when post is shifted, improving neatness and appearance. 5 e Easy installation of new posts by using one bolt fixing. * Delivery of amenities at same time as overhead protective structure, reducing the number of delivery applications to the local authority. * Creates potential for earlier establishment and use of site office and worker amenities. 10 0 The rigid container walls make easy fixing of graphic membranes for advertising or for improving street appearance. * The rigid container sides delete the need for temporary bracing of high facias before delivery or after removal of site amenity sheds and / or removal of temporary site office. 15 e There are usually less posts to install on site compared to other systems, reducing on-site work. Finally, it can be understood that the inventive concept in any of its aspects can be incorporated in many different constructions so that generality of the preceding description 20 is not superseded by the particularity of the attached drawings. Various alterations, modifications and/or additions may be incorporated into the various constructions and arrangements of parts without departing from the spirit or ambit of the present invention.

Claims

1. An overhead protective structure for providing protection to pedestrians located on 5 a walkway adjacent a construction site, the overhead protective structure including: a modular structural element including a base surface, side wall portions and a roof element, a plurality of support members that supports the modular structural element above the walkway at a height which allows pedestrians to pass underneath 10 the modular structural element, and, a fence element located along the side of the walkway adjacent the construction site.

2. An overhead protective structure according to claim 1 wherein the modular 15 structural element is in the form of a shipping container.

3. An overhead protective structure according to claim I or claim 2 wherein the structure includes support members located on the side of the walkway adjacent the construction site and support members located on the other side of the walkway 20 wherein the fence element is coupled to the support members located on the side adjacent the construction site.

4. An overhead protective structure according to claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the support members are adjustable in height and/or include a male coupling element 25 adapted to cooperate with an existing female coupling element located on the base surface of the shipping container.

5. An overhead protective structure according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the structure further includes one or more brace members that are coupled at one end to 30 the base of the modular structural element and coupled at the other end part way down one or more support members. C:NRPoribIDCC\WXH\3069902 1.DOC-15/07/2010 -26

6. An overhead protective structure according to any one of claims I to 5 wherein more than one overhead protective structures are joined together in a modular fashion whereby the modular structural members include open end portions that 5 form a continuous corridor suspended above the walkway.

7. An overhead protective structure according to claim 6 further including at least one end overhead protective structure that includes a modular structural member including one open end portion and one closed end portion thereby closing the 10 continuous corridor at one end.

8. An overhead protective structure according to any one of claims I to 7 wherein the modular structural member includes amenities within its side wall portions. 15

9. An overhead protective structure according to claim 8 wherein the amenities are located in the modular structural member before the structural member forms part of the overhead protective structure.

10. An overhead protective structure according to any one of claims I to 9 wherein the 20 overhead protective structure further includes a suspended walkway located at substantially the same level as the base surface of the modular structural member, the suspended walkway extending on either the construction site side, and/or the walkway side of the modular structural member and running in the same direction as the walkway. 25

11. An overhead protective structure according to any one of claims I to 10 wherein a protective deck is provided between the modular structural element and the plurality of support members. 30

12. An overhead protective structure according to claim I I wherein the plurality of support members couple to the protective deck which is in turn is coupled to the CWRPrbIl\DCC\WX\3069962 1 DOC-15/07/2010 - 27 modular structural element whereby the modular structural element may be removed leaving the protective deck in place maintaining protection for pedestrians located on the walkway. 5

13. An overhead protective structure according to any one of claims 10 to 13 wherein the protective deck is substantially the same size as the base surface of the modular structural element.

14. An assembly for use with an overhead protective structure, the assembly including: 10 a modular structural element including a base surface, side wall portions and a roof element; and a protective deck coupled to the underside of the base surface of the modular structural element.

15. An assembly according to claim 14 wherein the modular structural element is in the 15 form of a shipping container.

16. An assembly according to claim 14 or 15 wherein the assembly may be transported to a construction site and a plurality of support members positioned and coupled to protective deck to support the protective deck at a height which allows pedestrians 20 to pass underneath the protective deck thereby forming an overhead protective structure.

17. An assembly according to claim 16 wherein the protective deck includes a plurality of receiving portions for receiving and retaining the plurality of support members. 25

18. An assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 17 wherein the modular structural element may be removed and uncoupled from the protective deck leaving the protective deck in situ. 30

19. A method of erecting an overhead protective structure for providing protection to pedestrians located on a walkway adjacent the construction site, the method C \NRPotbl\DCC\WXfH\3O69962 1DOC-15/07/2010 - 28 including the following steps: suspending a modular structural member including a base surface, side wall portions and a roof element above the walkway; securing the modular structural member onto a plurality of support 5 members that maintain the modular structural member suspended above the walkway at a height sufficient for pedestrians to pass underneath the modular structural element; and, securing a fence element to the support members along the side of the walkway adjacent the construction site. 10

20. A method according to claim 19 wherein the modular structural member is in the form of a shipping container.

21. A method according to claim 19 or claim 20 wherein the modular structural 15 element includes amenities located therein.

22. An overhead protective structure for providing protection to pedestrians located on a walkway adjacent a construction site, the overhead protective structure including: a modular structural element including a base surface, side wall portions 20 and a roof element and wherein amenities are located within the modular structural element, a plurality of support members that supports the modular structural element above the walkway at a height which allows pedestrians to pass underneath the modular structural element, and, 25 a fence element located along the side of the walkway adjacent the construction site, wherein the modular structural element is a shipping container and the fence element and the base of the modular structural element provide protection to pedestrians from the adjacent construction site. 30

23. An overhead protective structure or an assembly for use with an overhead C:NRPortb\DCC\WX\3069%2 I [DOC-15/07/2010 - 29 protective structure substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying figures.

24. A method erecting an overhead protective structure for providing protection to 5 pedestrians located on a walkway adjacent a construction site substantially as hereinbefore described.