AU2022279457A1 - Positionable platform - Google Patents

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a platform for use with concrete formwork of the kind comprised of deck panels joined edgewise. The platform comprises an elongate body comprising an upper deck, which is of such a length that this can span at least one elongate decking panel lengthwise. The platform further comprises a conveyance means at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which the platform body can travel and pass over the decking panel in a direction normal to a direction of elongation thereof at least. In this way the platform can be moved as successive panels are laid. The platform comprises one or more ramps that can be raised for stowing or lowered for use in laying panels. The lengths of the platform can be adjusted to suit varying spans. CD 1/9 CD NN NaC N C14 C~CD CD~ CD~ CD mm NN cvj NC CD1

Description

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POSITIONABLE PLATFORM PRIORITY DOCUMENTS

[0001] The present application claims priority from:

Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2021903908 titled "POSITIONABLE PLATFORM" and filed on 2 December 2021; and

Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2022900962 titled "POSITIONABLE PLATFORM" and filed on 11 April 2022; and

the contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a platform for use with concrete formwork. In a particular form the present disclosure relates to a platform for use with a formwork assembly comprising structural steel decking constructed from elongate, profiled steel panels joined edgewise, on which concrete is poured to form a composite slab.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Light-gauge steel decking is used as permanent formwork in the construction of composite steel and concrete floor slabs and beams. The decking provides structural formwork by supporting building materials and personnel before the concrete hardens. In addition, once reinforcing steel bars and/or mesh have been laid, the concrete poured on top of the decking, and the concrete cured, the decking acts as permanent reinforcement.

[0004] Conventional structural steel decking is roll-formed from flat steel strip into long panels of uniform cross-section. Decking panels typically comprise a cross-sectional shape, or profile, comprising a plurality of parallel, lengthwise extending ribs, and a pair of edgewise extending connecting portions adapted to join a pair of adjacent decking panels edgewise, usually by clipping them together by overlapping the connecting portion.

[0005] The profile of the decking is such that panels are nestable and stackable, which is a significant advantage for transportation from the factory to a building site, as the panels are packed and transported in stacks.

[0006] When used to form a floor slab, the decking panels are laid so as to bridge between a pair of supports, be they a pair of temporary formworks, beams or walls, or a combination thereof, with each successive panel being joined edgewise with a preceding panel using the edgewise extending connecting portions. In practice, this is typically achieved by way of craning a stack of the panels up to the floor under construction and positioning the stack so that this bridges the pair of supports. One or more workers then begin laying the panels by taking a panel from the stack and joining this edgewise to a preceding panel. If the span requires, additional temporary props are provided to support the decking formwork at one or more positions between the support beams or walls. These props can be removed once the concrete is sufficiently cured.

[0007] Workers laying decking panels are working at an unguarded edge, and are at risk of falling from this elevated position to the completed floor below. Moreover, workers on the completed floor below are at risk of having a panel or tools dropped on them from above.

[0008] It is against this background that the present disclosure has been developed.

SUMMARY

[0009] According to a first aspect, there is provided a platform for use with concrete formwork, wherein the platform is adapted to span at least one elongate decking panel, and pass over the decking panel in a direction normal to a direction of elongation thereof (i.e., a transverse direction relative to the decking panel).

[0010] According to a further aspect, there is provided a platform for use with concrete formwork, wherein the platform comprises an elongate body comprising an upper deck, which is of such a length that it can span at least one elongate decking panel lengthwise, the platform further comprising a conveyance means at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which the platform body can travel and pass over the decking panel in a direction normal to a direction of elongation thereof at least.

[0011] In one form, the platform is adapted to pass over a formwork assembly formed from a plurality of the decking panels joined edgewise.

[0012] In one form, the or each decking panel is a structural steel decking panel.

[0013] In one form, the platform comprises an elongate body comprising an upper deck.

[0014] In one form, the upper deck comprises a rectilinear planform.

[0015] In one form, the platform comprises a length at least as long as that of the decking panel.

[0016] In one form, the platform comprises a length in excess of that of the decking panel. This means that one or more (i.e., a stack) of the panels can rest on the platform without overhanging the platform.

[0017] In one form, the platform comprises a width at least as wide as that of the decking panel.

[0018] In one form, the platform comprises a width which is a multiple of that of the decking panel. This means that two or more stacks of panels can rest on the platform.

[0019] In one form, the platform comprises a conveyance means at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which the platform body can travel.

[0020] In one form, the platform comprises at least a pair of wheels or rollers at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which the platform body rolls.

[0021] In one form, each pair of wheels or rollers is arranged in aline astern manner.

[0022] In one form, when fitted with wheels or rollers, the platform might be characterised as a trolley.

[0023] In one form, each pair of wheels or rollers is directed normal to the direction of elongation of the platform body. In this way the platform may roll in this direction.

[0024] In one form, the conveyance means at or toward each end of the elongate body comprises a rail on which the platform body can travel.

[0025] In one form, each pair of wheels rolls along a rail.

[0026] In one form, each of the wheels is configured to run on a rail.

[0027] In one form, a distance between the wheel pairings (i.e., a track) exceeds a length of the decking panel. This means that the platform can straddle the panel, and a formwork assembly formed from a plurality of the panels.

[0028] In one form, a height beneath the body exceeds a height of the decking panel. This means that the platform can pass over the panel, and a formwork assembly formed from a plurality of the panels.

[0029] In one form, the platform comprises a releasable brake.

[0030] In one form, the releasable brake is biased to prevent movement of the platform.

[0031] In one form, the brake must be released to permit movement of the platform.

[0032] According to a further aspect, there is provided a platform for use with concrete formwork, wherein the platform comprises an elongate body comprising an upper deck, at least a pair of wheels or rollers at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which the platform body rolls, each pair of wheels or rollers being arranged in a line astern manner in a direction normal to the direction of elongation of the platform body, wherein a distance between the wheel pairings (i.e., a track) exceeds a length of the decking panel, and wherein a height beneath the body exceeds a height of the decking panel.

[0033] In one form, in a less practical alternative, the platform comprises a linear bearing at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which it can travel.

[0034] In one form, in a less practical alternative, the platform comprises a caterpillar track assembly at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which it can travel.

[0035] In one form, the platform comprises a pair of lengthwise extending edges. In one form, these are contiguous with the edges of the upper deck.

[0036] In one form, the platform further comprises at least one guardrail.

[0037] In one form, the guard rail extends along a first edge of the platform.

[0038] In one form, the guard rail extends the length of the platform.

[0039] In one form, the guard rail is separable from the platform body.

[0040] In one form, the platform further comprises a folding ramp.

[0041] In one form, the folding ramp is hinged with respect to a second edge of the platform.

[0042] In one form, the platform body is comprised of at least first and second body portions.

[0043] In one form, the first and second body portions are adapted to connect lengthwise.

[0044] In one form, the platform comprises at least a third portion positioned between the first and second portions.

[0045] In one form, the length of the platform is adjustable.

[0046] In one form, the first and second body portions are adapted to move lengthwise with respect to each other.

[0047] In one form, a joiner element joins each of the lengthwise extending beams of each of the body portions.

[0048] In one form, the or each joiner element is fixed with respect to one of the platform body portions.

[0049] In one form, the or each joiner element is releasably securable with respect to both of the platform body portions being joined thereby.

[0050] In one form, each of the body portions and the joiner elements comprise a series of holes spaced apart lengthwise therealong so that these can be secured with respect to each other by passing bolts through aligned holes in the joiner element and the body portion. By selecting different holes, the length of the platform body can be adjusted to suit the intended application.

[0051] In one form, each of the body portions comprises a folding ramp.

[0052] In one form, the guard rail is separable into portions consistent with the platform body portions.

[0053] In one form, the platform further comprises lifting attachment points via which it can be craned.

[0054] In one form, the platform further comprises provision for receiving forklift tines.

[0055] In one form, the platform further comprises at least one deployable guard rail.

[0056] In one form, the platform further comprises two deployable guard rails.

[0057] In one form, each of the deployable guard rails is deployable by way of being moveable from a retracted position to an extended position with respect to the platform body.

[0058] In one form, each of the deployable guardrails is hinged with respect to the platform body so that it can be swung between its retracted and extended positions.

[0059] In one form, a first of the deployable guardrails is hinged with respect to the platform body at a first end of the platform body, and a second of the deployable guard rails is hinged with respect to the platform body at a second end of the platform body.

[0060] According to a further aspect, there is provided a trolley for use with concrete formwork, wherein the platform comprises an elongate body comprising an upper deck, at least a pair of wheels or rollers at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which the platform body rolls, each pair of wheels or rollers being arranged in a line astern manner in a direction normal to the direction of elongation of the platform body, wherein a distance between the wheel pairings (i.e., a track) exceeds a length of the decking panel, and wherein a height beneath the body exceeds a height of the decking panel.

[0061] For ease of description, a platform embodying the present features is described below in its usual assembled position as shown in the accompanying drawings and terms such as front, rear, upper, lower, horizontal, longitudinal etc., may be used with reference to this usual position. However, the platform may be manufactured, transported, sold, or used in orientations other than that described and shown here.

[0062] It will be appreciated that the broad forms of the invention and their respective features can be used in conjunction, interchangeably and/or independently, and reference to separate broad forms is not intended to be limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0063] Forms of the present disclosure will be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0064] Figure 1 is an end view of a platform;

[0065] Figure 1B is a schematic end view of the platform;

[0066] Figure 2 is a front view of the platform;

[0067] Figure 3 is a plan view of the platform;

[0068] Figure 4 is an end view of a platform according to a further form;

[0069] Figure 5 is a front view of the platform of Figure 4;

[0070] Figure 6 is a front view of the platform of Figure 4 in use assembling the formwork assembly;

[0071] Figure 7 is a plan view of the platform of Figure 4 in use assembling the formwork assembly;

[0072] Figure 8 is a schematic isometric view of a framework for a platform according to a further form;

[0073] Figure 9 is a schematic isometric view of a portion of the framework of Figure 8;

[0074] Figure 10 is a front detail view of an assembly of beams and a joiner element from the framework of Figure 8;

[0075] Figure 1OA is a cross-sectional view taken at A-A in Figure 9;

[0076] Figure 11 is a front view of an assembly of beams and a joiner element from the framework of Figure 8;

[0077] Figure 12 is a front view of the assembly of beams and a joiner element from Figure 11, illustrated in a shortened configuration;

[0078] Figure 13 is a front view of an assembly of beams and a joiner element from the framework of Figure 8; and

[0079] Figure 14 is a front view of the assembly of beams and a joiner element from Figure 13, illustrated in a shortened configuration.

[0080] In the following description, like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the figures.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0081] An example of a platform 1 for use with concrete formwork shall now be described with reference to Figures I to 3. More particularly, the platform 1 was devised for use with structural steel decking panels of the type described in the background of this specification, but its use is not necessarily so limited, as other formwork, equipment and tools can be placed on it.

[0082] These panels comprise a cross-sectional shape, or profile, comprising a plurality of parallel, lengthwise extending ribs, and a pair of edgewise extending connecting portions. One example of a panel of this type is produced by Lysaght and sold under the proprietary name of BONDEK. The panel width, and rib height and spacing are fixed dimensions, but panel length can vary depending on factors such as design span, slab depth and the number and spacing of temporary props to be employed.

[0083] A slab formwork assembly, represented schematically at 200, is formed between a pair of supports, in the form of temporary formwork beams in this case, by joining a deck panel to a preceding deck panel edgewise by overlapping and clipping their connecting portions together.

[0084] In this example, the platform 1 comprises an elongate body 2 comprising an upper deck 4 of rectilinear planform. The body 2 further comprises a structural framework 10 extending beneath and supporting the upper deck 4. The upper deck 4 could be made from plywood sheets.

[0085] The framework 10 comprises a plurality of equispaced, lengthwise extending beams 12 extending between a pair of end beams 14, and a stub corner post 16 at each corner. A cross brace 17 extends between each adjacent pair of lengthwise beams 12 to improve the strength and stiffness of the framework 10.

[0086] In the case of illustrated platform 1, the framework 10 is a welded construction of mild steel sections. The lengthwise beams 12, end beams 14 and cross braces 17 are made from parallel flange channel (PFC) steel sections, and the stub corner posts 16 are made from square hollow section (SHS) steel. Alternatively, different sections could be employed, or the framework 10 made from a different material, such as timber.

[0087] The platform 1, and more particularly the upper deck 4 of this, comprises a length in excess of that of a structural steel decking panel. This means that panel stacks 202 can rest on the deck 4 of the platform 1 without overhanging the platform 1. Moreover, the upper deck 4 in this case comprises a width in excess of a width of two panel stacks 202. This means that two panel stacks 202 can be positioned on the platform 1 side by side.

[0088] The platform 1 comprises a pair of wheels 20 at each end of the elongate body 2, on which the platform body 2 rolls. Each pair of wheels is arranged in a line astern manner. A first wheel 20 from each pair is a fixed castor wheel, and the other wheel 22 is a swivel castor wheel, which can be unlocked to swivel and facilitate some steering of the platform 1. When fitted with wheels 20, the platform 1 might also be characterised as a trolley.

[0089] A distance between the wheel pairings (i.e., a track) exceeds a length of the decking panel. This means that the platform 1 can straddle the formwork assembly 200.

[0090] A height beneath the body 2 of the platform 1 exceeds a height of the decking panel. This means that the body 2 of the platform 1 can pass over the formwork assembly 200.

[0091] In the illustrated example, the platform body 2 is comprised of a first and a second body portion 2a and 2b which are joined lengthwise to form the platform body 2. Each body portion 2a and 2b would comprise its own framework 10 portion and upper deck 4 portion. A joiner element 18 joins a break in each of the lengthwise extending beams 12. Each joiner element 18 is sized and shaped to sleeve inside of and extend between the free ends of the beams 12 being joined. Each joiner element 18 can be welded in a beam 12 of one body portion 2a or 2b and bolted or pinned in the other to prevent the two body portions 2a and 2b from separating. The joining locations for the beams 12 are staggered to prevent concentration of bending moments at a same location in each of the beams 12. An alternative to this arrangement is discussed below.

[0092] If the platform 1 were required to be of greater length, a third frame portion (not illustrated) could be inserted between the first and second body portion 2a and 2b, and joined using joiner elements 18. This means that longer decking panels could be accommodated. In a non-illustrated alternative, the lengthwise beams 12 might telescope with respect to each other so that the length of the platform 1 can be adjusted in this way, and set using bolts or pins.

[0093] The platform 1 further comprises a guard rail assembly 30 extending the length of a first lengthwise edge thereof. The guardrail assembly 30 comprises a plurality of posts 32, and a plurality of rails 34 extending between the posts 32. Each of the posts 32 is bolted with respect to the framework 10 of the body 2, so that the guardrail assembly 30 can be separated for transportation and storage. Each of the rails 34 is comprised of a plurality of rail segments 36 extending between and bolted to the posts 32. If the platform 1 were lengthened, additional rail segments 36 could be added as required.

[0094] The platform 1 further comprises a folding ramp 40 hinged with a respect to a second lengthwise edge of each of the first and second body portions 2a and 2b thereof by hinges 42. Each ramp 40 can be swung between retracted and extended positions. When retracted, each ramp 40 can lay on the deck 4. When extended, an outermost edge of each ramp 40 can rest against the slab formwork 200.

[0095] In use, the platform 1 can be craned into a position in which it spans a pair of table forms on which the wheels 20 can roll and between which the slab formwork 200 is to be assembled from the decking panels. Immediately, the platform 1 is useful as a safe walkway between the pair of table forms. To accommodate craning, the platform 1 can be provided with lift attachment points. These might take the form of lugs welded to the framework 200 and provided with holes.

[0096] Panel stacks 202 can be craned into position on the platform 1 ready for assembly. The panel stacks 202 can be craned up to the platform 1 after it has been positioned, or optionally, the panel stacks 202 could be strapped to the platform 1 and craned up into position with it. To accommodate strapping, the platform 1 can be provided with tie down points for securing loads thereto.

[0097] A first decking panel can be retrieved from one of the stacks 202 supported on the platform 1 and positioned by a worker working from the platform 1. The worker can then stand on the first decking panel, or adjacent to the platform 1 on the table forms, and retrieve a second panel for clipping to the first panel, and so on. The ramps 40 can be lowered to aid this process, with panels being slid down the ramps to the assembly 200. The panels could be assembled on the ramps 40, with the assembly 200 extending up the ramps 40 as it is progressively added to. As needed, the platform 1 can be rolled along over the top of the formwork assembly 200, adding panels until the formwork assembly 200 is completed. Rolling of the platform 1 may require the release of a brake which otherwise prevents its movement.

[0098] Once a supply of decking panels has been exhausted, a fresh supply can be craned up to the platform 1. Alternatively, another platform 1 already stacked with platform stacks 202 can be craned up to replace the now empty platform 1. This could reduce downtime for workers, and speed up assembly of the formwork assembly 200.

[0099] When employed in this fashion, the platform 1 provides a safe working surface and safety rail against the working edge of the formwork assembly 200. In this way it protects workers against falls from this working edge, and reduces the likelihood of dropping a decking panel onto workers below. Moreover, the platform 1 supports decking panels at the working edge, reducing the need to move back and forward between the working edge and a panel stack 202 positioned remotely from the working edge. In this way work efficiency is improved.

[00100] When slab formwork 200 for a given floor is completed, the platform 1 can be craned up to a next floor under construction. Once a job has been completed, the platform 1 can be broken down by separating the guardrail assembly 30 from the platform body 2, and then separating the platform body 2 into its body portions 2a and 2b. Breaking the platform 1 down makes it easier to transport the platform 1 on a truck tray or trailer.

[00101] Referring now to Figures 4 through 7, where there is illustrated a platform 100 according to a further form. Those parts of the platform 100 which are identical (or near- identical) to corresponding parts shown in the platform 1 of Figures 1 through 3, will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again in detail.

[00102] The platform 100 comprises lifting attachment points, in the form of lugs 15, via which it can be craned to, and between floor levels.

[00103] With reference to Figures 5 and 6 it can be seen that each pair of wheels 20 arranged line astern at each end of the elongate body 2 runs along a rail 24. Each rail 24 is positioned to run parallel to an edge of a pair of support floors provided by table forms 210 bounding a void which the decking panels are to bridge. Each of the wheels 20 is configured to run along one of the rails 24. In this way the platform 100 is guided, and cannot inadvertently divert from the path set by the rails 24.

[00104] The platform 100 further comprises a releasable brake 26. The releasable brake 26 can be biased to prevent movement of the platform 100, and must be released to permit movement of the platform 100. This brake 26 can comprise a pin provided with a handle which is biased by a spring into contact with one of the rails 24.

[00105] The rails 24 may comprise either of an element which the wheels 20 locate over, as illustrated in Figures 5 and 6, or an element which the wheels 20 locate in, such as one which forms an upward opening channel in which the wheels 20 locate and run.

[00106] The platform 100 further comprises two deployable guard rails 110. Each of the deployable guard rails 110 is deployable by way of being moveable from a retracted position to an extended position with respect to the platform body 2. Each of the deployable guard rails 110 is hinged with respect to the platform body 2 so that it can be swung between its retracted and extended positions. A first of the deployable guard rails is hinged with respect to the platform body 2 at a first end of the platform body 2, and a second of the deployable guard rails is hinged with respect to the platform body 2 at a second end of the platform body 2. When it is in its retracted position, each of the deployable guard rails 110 is parallel to the guard rail assembly 30. When it is in its extended position, each of the deployable guard rails 110 extends normal to its retracted position and the guard rail assembly 30, so as to provide additional protection against falls by workers into the void to floor levels below, and additional protection against the dropping of equipment or materials onto workers on floor levels below.

[00107] Each of the deployable guard rails 110 comprises a brace strut 112 which serves to maintain the deployable guard rail 110 in its extended position, until it is to be swung back into its retracted position. These brace struts 112 might be separable from their respective rails 110, or attached to them via a hinge.

[00108] Each of the deployable guard rails 110 further comprises a support wheel 114 at or near an outward position thereof, which is configured to support its weight when the guard rail 110 is in its extended position. This support wheel 114 can be extended into use as the guard rail 110 is deployed, and retracted as the guard rail 110 is retracted.

[00109] In use, the platform 100 is craned into position with the wheels 20 riding on the rails 24. In the formwork arrangement illustrated, each of the rails 24 is supported on and fixed to a top of a table form 210. Because the illustrated span requires it, additional temporary vertical props 220 supporting timber beams 222 are provided to support the decking formwork at a series of positions between the table forms 210. These props and beams can be removed once the concrete is sufficiently cured.

[00110] Each of the deployable guard rails 110 is deployed by swinging them from their retracted positions, into their extended positions, as illustrated in Figure 7.

[00111] With the ramps 40 lowered and the deployable guard rails 110 deployed, the brake 26 can be set to fix the position of the platform 100, and the platform 100 can be used in the same fashion as platform 1, as described above, to create a formwork assembly 200 from the decking panels. Once the formwork assembly 200 extends up the ramps 40 to the panel stacks 202, the brake 26 can be released and the platform 100 rolled along the rails 24 until the ramps 40 are clear of the formwork assembly 200, at which point the brake 26 can be reapplied and assembly of the formwork assembly 200 continued.

[00112] Advantageously then, the platform can provide a walkway, and improve the safety and efficiency of decking panel formwork assembly.

[00113] Referring now to Figures 8 through 14, where there is illustrated a platform l a according to a further form. Those parts of the platform la which are identical (or near- identical) to corresponding parts shown in the platform 1 of Figures 1 through 7, will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again in detail.

[00114] Platform body 2 is comprised of a first and a second body portion 2a and 2b which are joined lengthwise to form the platform body 2. Each body portion 2a and 2b would comprise its own framework 10 portion and upper deck 4 portion. A joiner element 18 joins each of the lengthwise extending beams 12 of each of the body portions 2a and 2b. Each joiner element 18 is sized and shaped to sleeve inside of and extend between the free ends of the beams 12 being joined. Each joiner element 18 is separable from each body portion 2a or 2b, and bolted or pinned in the two body potions 2a and 2b to join them.

[00115] With reference to Figures 9 and 10, each of the beams 12 comprises a portion having a section profile which is enclosed, so as to ensure retention and guidance of the sleeved joiner elements 18 therein. These enclosed portions are enclosed by provision of a guide plate 13 extending between parallel flanges of the beams 12.

[00116] Each of the body portions 2a and 2b and the joiner elements 18 comprise a series of holes spaced apart lengthwise therealong so that these can be secured with respect to each other by passing the bolts through aligned holes 15 in the joiner element 18 and the body portion 2a or 2b. By selecting different holes 15, the length of the platform body 2 can be adjusted to suit the intended application.

[00117] To provide extra adjustment, joiner elements 18 of different lengths can be provided. Figures 11 and 12 illustrate use of a first joiner element 18a, and Figures 13 and 14 illustrate use of a second, shorter joiner element 18b.

[00118] Figures 11 and 12 illustrate the first joiner element 18 in extended and shortened configurations, respectively. Similarly, Figures 13 and 14 illustrate the second, shorterjoiner element 18 in extended and shortened configurations, respectively. In use, decking material can be laid atop of these joiners to provide continuity of decking.

[00119] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that such prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

[00120] It will be understood that the terms "comprise" and "include" and any of their derivatives (e.g. comprises, comprising, includes, including) as used in this specification, and the claims that follow, is to be taken to be inclusive of features to which the term refers, and is not meant to exclude the presence of any additional features unless otherwise stated or implied.

[00121] In some cases, a single embodiment may, for succinctness and/or to assist in understanding the scope of the disclosure, combine multiple features. It is to be understood that in such a case, these multiple features may be provided separately (in separate embodiments), or in any other suitable combination. Alternatively, where separate features are described in separate embodiments, these separate features may be combined into a single embodiment unless otherwise stated or implied. This also applies to the claims which can be recombined in any combination. That is a claim may be amended to include a feature defined in any other claim. Further a phrase referring to "at least one of' a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including single members. As an example, "at least one of: a, b, or c" is intended to cover: a, b, c, a-b, a-c, b-c, and a-b-c.

[00122] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the disclosure is not restricted in its use to the particular application or applications described. Neither is the present disclosure restricted in its preferred embodiment with regard to the particular elements and/or features described or depicted herein. It will be appreciated that the disclosure is not limited to the embodiment or embodiments disclosed, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope as set forth and defined by the following claims.

Claims (12)

1. A platform for use with concrete formwork, wherein the platform comprises an elongate body comprising an upper deck of such a length that it can span at least one elongate decking panel lengthwise, the platform further comprising a conveyance means at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which the platform body can travel and pass over the decking panel in a direction normal to a direction of elongation thereof at least.

2. The platform of claim 1, wherein the platform can travel and pass over a formwork assembly formed from a plurality of the decking panels joined edgewise.

3. The platform as in either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the or each decking panel is a structural steel decking panel.

4. The platform as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the deck comprises a rectilinear planform.

5. The platform as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the conveyance means comprises at least a pair of wheels or rollers at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which the platform body rolls.

6. The platform of claim 5, wherein each pair of wheels or rollers is arranged in a line astern manner and directed normal to the direction of elongation of the platform body.

7. The platform as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein a distance between the conveyance means exceeds a length of the decking panel.

8. The platform as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein a height beneath the body exceeds a height of the decking panel.

9. The platform as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the platform body is comprised of at least first and second body portions,

10. The platform of claim 9, wherein the body portions are connected lengthwise by at least one joiner element.

11. The platform of claim 9 or claim 10, wherein the body portions are adapted to move lengthwise with respect to each other so that the length of the platform is adjustable.

12. The platform as in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one guard rail.

13. The platform as in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one folding ramp.

14. The platform of claim 13, wherein the or each folding ramp is hinged with respect to an edge of the platform so that it can be raised or lowered.

15. The platform of claim 14, wherein each of the body portions comprises a folding ramp.

16. The platform as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the platform further comprises at least one deployable guard rail hinged with respect to the platform body so that it can be swung between a retracted and an extended position, in which it extends outward from the platform.

17. The platform of claim 16, wherein a first deployable guard rail is hinged with respect to the platform body at a first end of the platform body, and a second deployable guard rail is hinged with respect to the platform body at a second end of the platform body.

18. The platform as in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising lifting attachment points via which it can be craned.

19. The platform as in any one of the preceding claims, further comprising provision for receiving forklift tines.

20. A platform for use with concrete formwork formed from a plurality of elongate decking panels, wherein the platform comprises an elongate body comprising an upper deck, at least a pair of wheels or rollers at or toward each end of the elongate body, on which the platform body rolls, each pair of wheels or rollers being arranged in a line astern manner in a direction normal to the direction of elongation of the platform body, wherein a distance between the wheel pairings exceeds a length of the decking panel, and wherein a height beneath the body exceeds a height of the decking panel.

1 30 1 30

202 202

42 12 4 42 40 16 40 4 14

22 Fig. 1 20 Fig. 1B 1/9

1 32 34 32 34 32 34 32 34 34 34

16 16

20,22 12 200 20,22 Fig. 2

30 32 32 18 32 12 32 16 20 16 10 17 18 17 12

14 17 18 17 12 14 22 42 42 17 18 17 42 12 42 2/9

22 16

40

200 Fig. 3

30 110

100 32

200 40 16 15 4 15 3/9

20 26 24 20 114

Fig. 4

32 34 32 30 32

2

222 222 222 220 210 24 220 220 24 210 4/9

Fig. 5 100

40 2 4 40

20 20

222 222 222 220 210 24 220 220 24 210 Fig. 6

2 100 40 15 14 15 110 114

12 112

17

12 5/9

17

200 112 110

114

40 30 Fig. 7

32 1a

30 2b 40 110

32 12

112 17 6/9

12 12 112 110

26 2a 10

Fig. 8

17 13

18

18

12

15 7/9

17 13

18 15

12

17 Fig. 9

18 12

13

Fig. 10A 8/9

18 17 13 15 15 15 15 18 12

15 15 15 15

Fig. 10

12 18a 15 15 12

Fig. 11 12 18a 12

Fig. 12 15 15 9/9

12 18b 15 15 12

Fig. 13 12 18b 15 12

Fig. 14