CA2726088C - A mobile lift platform - Google Patents
A mobile lift platform Download PDFInfo
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- CA2726088C CA2726088C CA2726088A CA2726088A CA2726088C CA 2726088 C CA2726088 C CA 2726088C CA 2726088 A CA2726088 A CA 2726088A CA 2726088 A CA2726088 A CA 2726088A CA 2726088 C CA2726088 C CA 2726088C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- platform
- boom
- axis
- staircase
- support structure
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- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000037361 pathway Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
- E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
- E21B15/00—Supports for the drilling machine, e.g. derricks or masts
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66F—HOISTING, LIFTING, HAULING OR PUSHING, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. DEVICES WHICH APPLY A LIFTING OR PUSHING FORCE DIRECTLY TO THE SURFACE OF A LOAD
- B66F11/00—Lifting devices specially adapted for particular uses not otherwise provided for
- B66F11/04—Lifting devices specially adapted for particular uses not otherwise provided for for movable platforms or cabins, e.g. on vehicles, permitting workmen to place themselves in any desired position for carrying out required operations
- B66F11/044—Working platforms suspended from booms
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G1/00—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground
- E04G1/18—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground adjustable in height
- E04G1/22—Scaffolds having a platform on an extensible substructure, e.g. of telescopic type or with lazy-tongs mechanism
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Geology (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
- Fluid Mechanics (AREA)
- General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Ladders (AREA)
Abstract
A work platform apparatus is provided that may be elevated from the level of its support base. One or more actuatable booms may raise and lower the platform in the vertical plane. The user may also move the platform substantially about the horizontal plane. Positioning of the platform about the horizontal plane may allow the operator to advance and retreat the platform towards and away from a work structure. Movement about the horizontal plane may also include lateral movement of the platform to facilitate proper alignment of the platform with the work structure. Further, the present invention may include a staircase that is connected between the platform and the support structure. The staircase may actuate with the platform, relative to the support structure, so that a user may access or exit the platform without the need to return the platform to ground level.
Description
TITLE
A Mobile Lift Platform FIELD OF ART
The present invention relates to an apparatus for providing an adjustable, elevated work platform.
BACKGROUND
Within the oil and gas industry, there are a number of instances that require workers to access work structures and the like that may be elevated off the ground. Further, the nature of the work to be performed at such elevation often times may require the manipulation of heavy equipment and may require positioning of workers at various positions about the work structures, while ensuring worker safety at various heights.
SUMMARY
The present invention may provide a work platform that may be elevated from the level of its support base. One or more actuatable booms may allow a user to raise and lower the platform substantially in the vertical plane and the user may also move the platform substantially about the horizontal plane. Positioning of the platform about the horizontal plane may provide the benefit of the ability to advance the platform towards a work structure and also retract the platform from the work structure. Movement through the horizontal plane may also include lateral movement of the platform to facilitate proper alignment of the platform with various aspects of the work structure. Further, the present invention may include a staircase that is connected between the platform and the support structure. The staircase may actuate with the platform, relative to the support structure, so that a user may access or exit the platform without the need to return the platform to ground level.
The present invention may provide an apparatus to provide access to elevated work structures, the apparatus comprising: a support structure including a walkway that extends from a first end to a second end of the structure; a first boom connected at a first end to the support structure, at least one first actuator to position the first boom along a first axis, the second end connected to a WSLega1\066979\00001\6515535v3
A Mobile Lift Platform FIELD OF ART
The present invention relates to an apparatus for providing an adjustable, elevated work platform.
BACKGROUND
Within the oil and gas industry, there are a number of instances that require workers to access work structures and the like that may be elevated off the ground. Further, the nature of the work to be performed at such elevation often times may require the manipulation of heavy equipment and may require positioning of workers at various positions about the work structures, while ensuring worker safety at various heights.
SUMMARY
The present invention may provide a work platform that may be elevated from the level of its support base. One or more actuatable booms may allow a user to raise and lower the platform substantially in the vertical plane and the user may also move the platform substantially about the horizontal plane. Positioning of the platform about the horizontal plane may provide the benefit of the ability to advance the platform towards a work structure and also retract the platform from the work structure. Movement through the horizontal plane may also include lateral movement of the platform to facilitate proper alignment of the platform with various aspects of the work structure. Further, the present invention may include a staircase that is connected between the platform and the support structure. The staircase may actuate with the platform, relative to the support structure, so that a user may access or exit the platform without the need to return the platform to ground level.
The present invention may provide an apparatus to provide access to elevated work structures, the apparatus comprising: a support structure including a walkway that extends from a first end to a second end of the structure; a first boom connected at a first end to the support structure, at least one first actuator to position the first boom along a first axis, the second end connected to a WSLega1\066979\00001\6515535v3
2 first end of a second boom; a platform boom connected at a second end of the second boom, the second boom including at least one second actuator to position the second boom along a second axis that is substantially normal to the first axis; and the platform connected to the second end of a staircase, the first end of the staircase slidably arranged with the walkway so that as the platform is positioned along the first and the second axis, the staircase is positioned to provide access to the platform.
It is to be understood that other aspects of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein various embodiments of the invention are shown and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, the invention is capable for other and different embodiments and its several details are capable of modification in various other respects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Accordingly the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Referring to the drawings, several aspects of the present invention are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in detail in the figures, wherein:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of the present invention in a collapsed position for use with a work structure.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the example embodiment of Figure 1, in an extended position for use with a work structure.
Figure 3 is a side, elevation view of the example embodiment of the present invention, between the collapsed position of Figure 1 arid the extended position of Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of an example embodiment of the present invention for use with a work structure.
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of an intermediate element on a portion of the structural support, for use with the present invention, taken through line 5-5' of Figure 3.
WSLega1\066979\00001\6515535v3
It is to be understood that other aspects of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein various embodiments of the invention are shown and described by way of illustration. As will be realized, the invention is capable for other and different embodiments and its several details are capable of modification in various other respects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Accordingly the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Referring to the drawings, several aspects of the present invention are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in detail in the figures, wherein:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of the present invention in a collapsed position for use with a work structure.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the example embodiment of Figure 1, in an extended position for use with a work structure.
Figure 3 is a side, elevation view of the example embodiment of the present invention, between the collapsed position of Figure 1 arid the extended position of Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of an example embodiment of the present invention for use with a work structure.
Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of an example embodiment of an intermediate element on a portion of the structural support, for use with the present invention, taken through line 5-5' of Figure 3.
WSLega1\066979\00001\6515535v3
3 Figure 6A is a perspective view of a example embodiment of a part of the walkway and second staircase for use with the present invention.
Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view taken of an example embodiment of a walkway and staircase for use with the present invention, taken through line B-B of Figure 6A.
DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of various embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to represent the only embodiments contemplated by the inventor. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a comprehensive understanding of the present invention.
However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. Further, the drawings provided are not necessarily to scale and in some instances proportions may have been exaggerated in order more clearly to depict certain features. Throughout the drawings, from time to time, similar numbers may be used to reference similar, but not necessarily identical, parts.
The present invention may provide a work platform that may be elevated from the level of its support base. One or more actuatable booms may allow a user to raise and lower the platform substantially in the vertical plane and the user may also move the platform substantially about the horizontal plane. Positioning of the platform about the horizontal plane may provide the benefit of advancing the platform towards a first work area of a structure and also retract the platform from the first work area and the structure to permit vertical movement of the platform, away from any restrictions, encumbrances or features of the work structure, then advance the platform towards a second work area at a different vertical height along the work structure.
Movement through the horizontal plane may also include lateral movement to facilitate proper alignment of the platform with various aspects of the work structure. Further, the present invention may include a staircase that is connected between the platform and the support structure. The staircase may actuate with the platform, relative to the support structure, so that a user may access or exit the platform without the need to return the platform to ground level.
WS Legah066979 00001 \6515535v3
Figure 6B is a cross-sectional view taken of an example embodiment of a walkway and staircase for use with the present invention, taken through line B-B of Figure 6A.
DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS EMBODIMENTS
The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of various embodiments of the present invention and is not intended to represent the only embodiments contemplated by the inventor. The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a comprehensive understanding of the present invention.
However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. Further, the drawings provided are not necessarily to scale and in some instances proportions may have been exaggerated in order more clearly to depict certain features. Throughout the drawings, from time to time, similar numbers may be used to reference similar, but not necessarily identical, parts.
The present invention may provide a work platform that may be elevated from the level of its support base. One or more actuatable booms may allow a user to raise and lower the platform substantially in the vertical plane and the user may also move the platform substantially about the horizontal plane. Positioning of the platform about the horizontal plane may provide the benefit of advancing the platform towards a first work area of a structure and also retract the platform from the first work area and the structure to permit vertical movement of the platform, away from any restrictions, encumbrances or features of the work structure, then advance the platform towards a second work area at a different vertical height along the work structure.
Movement through the horizontal plane may also include lateral movement to facilitate proper alignment of the platform with various aspects of the work structure. Further, the present invention may include a staircase that is connected between the platform and the support structure. The staircase may actuate with the platform, relative to the support structure, so that a user may access or exit the platform without the need to return the platform to ground level.
WS Legah066979 00001 \6515535v3
4 In reference to Figure 1, an example embodiment of the apparatus 10 is depicted in a first position, for example a collapsed position. The first position may be appropriate for transporting the apparatus to and from a work site. In reference to Figure 2, apparatus 10 is depicted in a second position, for example an extended position. The apparatus may be actuated to and fixed at any position between a collapsed position and a position that is fully extended to permit workers access to a work structure 11, for example an oil or gas wellhead, a construction site, a utility site and the like.
The apparatus may include a support structure 12 with a first end 13 and a second end 15 and two sides. The apparatus may also include a platform 14 that is attached to the support structure by at least one boom 16. For example, as depicted in the Figures, platform 14 is connected to support structure 12 by a first boom 16 and a second boom 17. The first boom may be connected 20, for example by a pivoting or hinged connection to the support structure and moveable about this connection, for example by one or more mechanical actuators 18 (see Figure 3). In this embodiment, second boom 17 may be connected to first boom 16 by a second connection 22.
Further, second boom 17 may be moveable about connection 22, for example a pivoting or hinged connection, by one or more mechanical actuators 36.
The connection 20 between the support structure and the first boom may allow for a range of movement by which the platform may be positioned substantially along an axis 100x that is coaxial with and passes through first end 13 and second end 15 (as shown on Figure 1).
Actuation of one or more mechanical actuators 18, for example hydraulic cylinders such as a telescopic cylinder, a differential cylinder or the like may cause the first boom to move between the collapsed position, wherein the long axis of the first boom may lie substantially parallel to axis 100x (as shown in Figure 1) and an extended position (as shown in Figure 2) wherein the long axis of the first boom is substantially perpendicular to axis 100x.
In one aspect, the first boom may have one end that includes a base 26 and a second end that includes second connection 22. The base may contain a substantially planar surface that has one end 28 towards the first end 13 of the support structure and a second end 30 towards second end 15 of the support structure. Connection 20 may be positioned at first end 28 of the base to connect the base to the support structure. Mechanical actuator 18 may have one end 32 fixed to WSLega1\066979 \ 0000 1\65155350 the support structure and another end 34 connected, for example pivotally or slideably connected, to the base towards the second end. In one aspect mechanical actuator 18 may be a hydraulic cylinder that pulls the second end of the base towards the support structure and by doing so the first boom may move from the collapsed position towards the extended position.
Further, the hydraulic cylinder may also allow the first boom to be positioned at any point between the collapsed position and the extended position.
In another aspect, actuator 18 may be of the opposite orientation and positioned towards the first end of the support structure and the actuator may push the second end of the base towards the support structure and thereby the first boom may move from the collapsed position towards the extended position.
In yet another aspect, the first boom may be substantially perpendicular to the support structure while in the extended position. In another aspect, the first boom may move past the perpendicular position to provide a further range of movement along axis 100x thereby possibly increasing the displacement of the platform along axis 100x.
Further, the first boom may be moved to and temporarily held at any position between the collapsed position and the extended position. Said another way, the present invention may provide the ability to move the first boom to numerous positions in and along a substantially horizontal axis, along axis 100x, and all such positions can be held so that the platform is held in a given position for a desired amount of time to permit workers to complete a given task on the work structure.
Second connection 22, for example a pivoting or hinged connection, may be positioned on first boom 16, distanced from the base and the second connection allowing the second boom to be moved along an axis 102x that may be substantially normal to axis 100x (as shown on Figure 1).
Actuation of one or more mechanical actuators 36, for example hydraulic cylinders such as a telescopic cylinder, a differential cylinder or the like may cause the second boom to move between the collapsed position, for example, wherein the second boom may be close to, and possible substantially abut, for example rest against, the support structure (as shown in Figure 1) and an extended position for example, wherein the second boom has been elevated away from and off the support structure (as shown in Figure 2). The second boom may have a first end 42, a WSLega11066979 \00001\6515535v3 second end 44 and a body 46 therebetween. The second pivoting connection may be positioned at the first end of the second boom and may connect the first boom and the second boom. The second end of the second boom may have platform 14 connected, for example pivotally connected, thereto.
In one aspect, actuator 36 may be a hydraulic cylinder that is connected, for example pivotally connected, at one end 38 to the support structure and the other end 40 may be connected to the second boom, between the first end and the second end of the second boom, for example actuator 36 may be connected to body 46 of the second boom and actuator 36 may be a hydraulic cylinder that pushes the body of the second boom away from the support structure to move the second boom along axis 102x.
For example, actuation of hydraulically operable cylinder 36 may move the platform along a substantially vertical axis 102x between a collapsed position (as shown in Figure 1) or an extended position (as shown in Figure 2). This may enable access to desired work locations that are at different elevations of the work structure. Further, the second boom may be moved to and temporarily fixed at any position between the collapsed position and the extended position. Said another way, the present invention may provide the ability to move platform 14 to numerous positions along a substantially vertical axis, along axis 102x, and all such positions can be held so that the platform is held in a given position for a desired amount of time to permit workers to complete a given task on the work structure.
In one embodiment, an intermediate portion 48, for example a carriage plate, may be provided on top of the support structure and positioned such that connection 20, base 26, second end 34 of actuator 18 and second end 40 of actuator 36 are all fixed to the intermediate portion rather than directly to the support structure. For example, carriage plate 48 may be a substantially planar body with at least one wall 49, for example two walls, that extends upwards from the upper surface of the body. Base 26 may be positioned between the two walls and connection 20 may connect the first boom to the carriage plate, as shown in Figure 4. Further, ends 32 and 42 of the two actuators may also be connected to the upper side of the body, possibly via walls 49. The lower side of carriage 48 may be supported by one or more support bars 51 that are attached in at least one location 51a to the support structure 12 (as shown in Figure 5).
Further, the carnage WSLega1\066979\00001,6515535v3 plate may be connected to the support bars in a sliding relationship, for example by way of sliding bushing arrangement 51b that permits slidable movement along an axis 104x, for example axis 104x may be substantially normal to both axis 100x and axis 102x (as shown in Figure 1). Lower surface of carriage 49 may be connected to at least one mechanical actuator 50, for example, a hydraulic cylinder may be similar to the aforementioned actuators. Actuator 50 may be connected at one end to the carriage 49 and the other end to support structure 12 and actuator 50 may be aligned such that movement of the actuator and therefore movement of the carriage plate may be along an axis 104x For example, actuation of mechanical actuator 50 may cause the carriage plate to be displaced along axis 104x such that the first boom, the second boom and the platform also all move, perhaps in unison, along axis 104x, towards or away from the sides of the support structure.
Further, in one embodiment, the support structure may include a walkway 52 that extends from substantially the first end 13 of the support structure to the second end 15 thereof. Walkway 52 may include safety railings 53 and be of sufficient dimensions that a worker can walk along walkway 52, without significant difficulty or hindrance. Walkway 52 may include a first end 56 and a second end 58. Further, walkway 52 may be raised off the ground by a distance that may necessitate a staircase 54 may be positioned at first end 56 to allow a user to access the walkway.
Further, to facilitate transport and storage, staircase 54 may be hingedly connected to the railings of the walkway, as shown in Figure 1. Further, the staircase may be foldable, about a pivoting connection 60 to facilitate transport and storage of the apparatus. Further, staircase 54 may extend from the height of the walkway towards the ground level but in one aspect the staircase may not rest against the ground so that when the third actuator is engaged to move the apparatus along axis 104x, the staircase will not drag along the ground possibly avoiding damage to the staircase and the apparatus as a whole.
As described herein above, platform 14 may be connected to second end 44 of the second boom 17. Platform 14 may be a substantially flat surface, with an appropriately textured surface to ensure that workers have adequate frictional grip, In one embodiment, the first boom may include one or more links 110 and the second boom may include one or more links 112. For example, the links may be positioned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of each boom.
Links 110 may be connected to links 112 by a link arm 114. The arrangement of the links, the WSLEGAL 066979 \ 00001117789570v I
link arm and each of the booms may assist in keeping the platform substantially parallel to the ground. As one skilled in the art may appreciate, there are a number of connections, for example pivoting or hinged connections, by which the links and link arm can maintain the platform at a level position, substantially parallel to the ground, as the first and second booms move the platform along either or both of axis 100x and 102x.
In one embodiment, the platform may have four sides, with a safety railing 64 that extends upwards from the surface of the platform. The safety railing may include one or more safety tie offs 66, such as an eye cleat, a carabineer connection and the like to allow a worker to temporarily connect themselves, via a safety harness and appropriate webbing, to the platform.
Further, the platform may include a gate 66 and hole 70 so that the gate may be opened, for example the gate may be hingedly connected to safety railings 64, and a portion of the platform surface may be moved, for example by a hinge, so that a pathway is created from outside the platform to communicate with hole 70, located for example at the center of the platform. Such a pathway may allow the operator to position the platform about elements of the work structure so that workers may access the work structure from four sides (as shown in Figure 2).
The second boom may connect to the platform, for example by a pivoting or hinged connection, on one side of the platform such that a second staircase 72 may also be connected to the platform, on the same side as the second boom. In an alternative aspect, it may be possible that the second staircase is connected on a different side of the platform as the second boom, The second stair case may have a first end 74 that is connected to the walkway and a second end 76 that is connected to the platform. hi one aspect, the first end of the second staircase may have a slideable arrangement, for example a sliding bracket arrangement, with the length of the walkway (as shown in Figures 6A and 6B), In one aspect, the length of walkway 52 there may include a recess 78 on each side of the walkway, positioned proximal to the level of the walking surface of the walkway. First end 74 may have extensions 80 that extend from the lateral edges of first end 74 into an engage the recess so that when the platform is being elevated, along axis 102x, the second end of staircase 72 is connected to and thereby is elevated with the platform, whereas the first end of the staircase will be retained at the level of walkway 52, by the arrangement of the extensions and the recess. The second end of the staircase may then slide along the recess, generally from the direction of first end 13 the support structure towards second WSLEGALA066979\00001 U7789570v1 end 15. Dependent upon the operator's desired position of the platform, the second end of the staircase may be positioned between the first end 13 and the second end 15 of the support structure and as shown in Figure 2, the second end of the staircase may be positioned closer to, or abut against, the second end 15 of the support structure when the apparatus is in the extended position.
In one embodiment, staircase 52 may have a hand railing 81 substantially the full length of the staircase. Further, each stair of the staircase may include a tread 82 that is supported on either side by a stringer 84 that extends from the first end of the staircase to the second end of the staircase on either side of each tread 82. Each stringer may have an upper and a lower stringer and the tread may be connected therebetween (as shown in Figure 2). The arrangement between the tread and the two stringers on each side of each tread may be such that when the apparatus is in the collapsed position, the treads may pivot and lie substantially flat, for example with the tread lying substantially parallel to the stringers (as shown in Figure 1), but as the apparatus is moved towards the extended position, the treads may move from a flat orientation towards, and be fixed at, an extended position such that the treads may actuate about the connection with the stringers and provide an appropriate orientation for a worker to use the staircase. For example, when the apparatus is in an extended position, the treads may actuate, by the angular relationship between the two stringers, each treads' connection to the stringers and the connections between the first end and the second end of the staircase, to orient towards being substantially parallel to the level of the surface of the platform. As one may appreciate, the purpose of the treads is to provide a staircase that is safe and suitable for the sometimes harsh climate in which the apparatus may be employed. The surface of the tread may be similar to the surface of the platform to ensure that the worker has adequate frictional.
In one aspect, the support structure may also include one or more hydraulically powered outriggers 86 that may extend from each side of the support structure to provide greater stability of the apparatus. For example, each outrigger may include a foot pad 88 at the end of the outrigger distal from the connection, for example pivoting or hinged connection, to the support structure. The footpads may contact the ground to increase the surface area, by providing a greater footprint on the ground, over which loads associated with the apparatus are distributed.
WSLegal\ 066979 \ 0C1001 \ 65 1 5535v3 The outriggers may provide greater stability to the apparatus while in use and the outriggers may be collapsed towards the support structure for transport.
In one embodiment, support structure 14 may also include a control box 90 to permit a user to control the position of all hydraulic actuators, and thereby the position of platform 14. As one skilled in the art may appreciate, various technologies may be applicable to control the hydraulics and thereby the platform position, for example a hydraulic power pack or a dedicated diesel generator to provide power to the hydraulic system. In one embodiment, a diesel engine may produce power, substantially in the range of 15 to 30 horsepower in order to produce pressures in the hydraulic cylinders substantially in a broad range of 1500 to 4000 p.s.i. or more specifically 1500 to 2500 p.s.i.. Further, in an aspect of the present invention that utilizes hydraulically powered outriggers, the hydraulic cylinders associated therewith may be associated with upwards of 3000 p.s.i., or more, depending upon the operating conditions.
In one aspect, the support structure may be supported on at least one axle with wheels and tires on either side, for example the support structure may be a trailer with a hitch connection at one end that permits the apparatus to be towed behind a motorized vehicle, for example a one-tonne truck. In one embodiment, the total mass of the apparatus will not exceed 12,000 to 13,000 lbs while in a compressed position for transport behind a truck. However, when in the extended position, the apparatus may allow up to four workers to safely work on the platform.
The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. Various modifications to those embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular, such as by use of the article "a" or "an" is not intended to mean "one and only one"
unless specifically so stated, but rather "one or more". All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various embodiments described throughout the disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are intended to be encompassed by the elements of the claims.
VVSLegan066979\0000116515535v3
The apparatus may include a support structure 12 with a first end 13 and a second end 15 and two sides. The apparatus may also include a platform 14 that is attached to the support structure by at least one boom 16. For example, as depicted in the Figures, platform 14 is connected to support structure 12 by a first boom 16 and a second boom 17. The first boom may be connected 20, for example by a pivoting or hinged connection to the support structure and moveable about this connection, for example by one or more mechanical actuators 18 (see Figure 3). In this embodiment, second boom 17 may be connected to first boom 16 by a second connection 22.
Further, second boom 17 may be moveable about connection 22, for example a pivoting or hinged connection, by one or more mechanical actuators 36.
The connection 20 between the support structure and the first boom may allow for a range of movement by which the platform may be positioned substantially along an axis 100x that is coaxial with and passes through first end 13 and second end 15 (as shown on Figure 1).
Actuation of one or more mechanical actuators 18, for example hydraulic cylinders such as a telescopic cylinder, a differential cylinder or the like may cause the first boom to move between the collapsed position, wherein the long axis of the first boom may lie substantially parallel to axis 100x (as shown in Figure 1) and an extended position (as shown in Figure 2) wherein the long axis of the first boom is substantially perpendicular to axis 100x.
In one aspect, the first boom may have one end that includes a base 26 and a second end that includes second connection 22. The base may contain a substantially planar surface that has one end 28 towards the first end 13 of the support structure and a second end 30 towards second end 15 of the support structure. Connection 20 may be positioned at first end 28 of the base to connect the base to the support structure. Mechanical actuator 18 may have one end 32 fixed to WSLega1\066979 \ 0000 1\65155350 the support structure and another end 34 connected, for example pivotally or slideably connected, to the base towards the second end. In one aspect mechanical actuator 18 may be a hydraulic cylinder that pulls the second end of the base towards the support structure and by doing so the first boom may move from the collapsed position towards the extended position.
Further, the hydraulic cylinder may also allow the first boom to be positioned at any point between the collapsed position and the extended position.
In another aspect, actuator 18 may be of the opposite orientation and positioned towards the first end of the support structure and the actuator may push the second end of the base towards the support structure and thereby the first boom may move from the collapsed position towards the extended position.
In yet another aspect, the first boom may be substantially perpendicular to the support structure while in the extended position. In another aspect, the first boom may move past the perpendicular position to provide a further range of movement along axis 100x thereby possibly increasing the displacement of the platform along axis 100x.
Further, the first boom may be moved to and temporarily held at any position between the collapsed position and the extended position. Said another way, the present invention may provide the ability to move the first boom to numerous positions in and along a substantially horizontal axis, along axis 100x, and all such positions can be held so that the platform is held in a given position for a desired amount of time to permit workers to complete a given task on the work structure.
Second connection 22, for example a pivoting or hinged connection, may be positioned on first boom 16, distanced from the base and the second connection allowing the second boom to be moved along an axis 102x that may be substantially normal to axis 100x (as shown on Figure 1).
Actuation of one or more mechanical actuators 36, for example hydraulic cylinders such as a telescopic cylinder, a differential cylinder or the like may cause the second boom to move between the collapsed position, for example, wherein the second boom may be close to, and possible substantially abut, for example rest against, the support structure (as shown in Figure 1) and an extended position for example, wherein the second boom has been elevated away from and off the support structure (as shown in Figure 2). The second boom may have a first end 42, a WSLega11066979 \00001\6515535v3 second end 44 and a body 46 therebetween. The second pivoting connection may be positioned at the first end of the second boom and may connect the first boom and the second boom. The second end of the second boom may have platform 14 connected, for example pivotally connected, thereto.
In one aspect, actuator 36 may be a hydraulic cylinder that is connected, for example pivotally connected, at one end 38 to the support structure and the other end 40 may be connected to the second boom, between the first end and the second end of the second boom, for example actuator 36 may be connected to body 46 of the second boom and actuator 36 may be a hydraulic cylinder that pushes the body of the second boom away from the support structure to move the second boom along axis 102x.
For example, actuation of hydraulically operable cylinder 36 may move the platform along a substantially vertical axis 102x between a collapsed position (as shown in Figure 1) or an extended position (as shown in Figure 2). This may enable access to desired work locations that are at different elevations of the work structure. Further, the second boom may be moved to and temporarily fixed at any position between the collapsed position and the extended position. Said another way, the present invention may provide the ability to move platform 14 to numerous positions along a substantially vertical axis, along axis 102x, and all such positions can be held so that the platform is held in a given position for a desired amount of time to permit workers to complete a given task on the work structure.
In one embodiment, an intermediate portion 48, for example a carriage plate, may be provided on top of the support structure and positioned such that connection 20, base 26, second end 34 of actuator 18 and second end 40 of actuator 36 are all fixed to the intermediate portion rather than directly to the support structure. For example, carriage plate 48 may be a substantially planar body with at least one wall 49, for example two walls, that extends upwards from the upper surface of the body. Base 26 may be positioned between the two walls and connection 20 may connect the first boom to the carriage plate, as shown in Figure 4. Further, ends 32 and 42 of the two actuators may also be connected to the upper side of the body, possibly via walls 49. The lower side of carriage 48 may be supported by one or more support bars 51 that are attached in at least one location 51a to the support structure 12 (as shown in Figure 5).
Further, the carnage WSLega1\066979\00001,6515535v3 plate may be connected to the support bars in a sliding relationship, for example by way of sliding bushing arrangement 51b that permits slidable movement along an axis 104x, for example axis 104x may be substantially normal to both axis 100x and axis 102x (as shown in Figure 1). Lower surface of carriage 49 may be connected to at least one mechanical actuator 50, for example, a hydraulic cylinder may be similar to the aforementioned actuators. Actuator 50 may be connected at one end to the carriage 49 and the other end to support structure 12 and actuator 50 may be aligned such that movement of the actuator and therefore movement of the carriage plate may be along an axis 104x For example, actuation of mechanical actuator 50 may cause the carriage plate to be displaced along axis 104x such that the first boom, the second boom and the platform also all move, perhaps in unison, along axis 104x, towards or away from the sides of the support structure.
Further, in one embodiment, the support structure may include a walkway 52 that extends from substantially the first end 13 of the support structure to the second end 15 thereof. Walkway 52 may include safety railings 53 and be of sufficient dimensions that a worker can walk along walkway 52, without significant difficulty or hindrance. Walkway 52 may include a first end 56 and a second end 58. Further, walkway 52 may be raised off the ground by a distance that may necessitate a staircase 54 may be positioned at first end 56 to allow a user to access the walkway.
Further, to facilitate transport and storage, staircase 54 may be hingedly connected to the railings of the walkway, as shown in Figure 1. Further, the staircase may be foldable, about a pivoting connection 60 to facilitate transport and storage of the apparatus. Further, staircase 54 may extend from the height of the walkway towards the ground level but in one aspect the staircase may not rest against the ground so that when the third actuator is engaged to move the apparatus along axis 104x, the staircase will not drag along the ground possibly avoiding damage to the staircase and the apparatus as a whole.
As described herein above, platform 14 may be connected to second end 44 of the second boom 17. Platform 14 may be a substantially flat surface, with an appropriately textured surface to ensure that workers have adequate frictional grip, In one embodiment, the first boom may include one or more links 110 and the second boom may include one or more links 112. For example, the links may be positioned substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of each boom.
Links 110 may be connected to links 112 by a link arm 114. The arrangement of the links, the WSLEGAL 066979 \ 00001117789570v I
link arm and each of the booms may assist in keeping the platform substantially parallel to the ground. As one skilled in the art may appreciate, there are a number of connections, for example pivoting or hinged connections, by which the links and link arm can maintain the platform at a level position, substantially parallel to the ground, as the first and second booms move the platform along either or both of axis 100x and 102x.
In one embodiment, the platform may have four sides, with a safety railing 64 that extends upwards from the surface of the platform. The safety railing may include one or more safety tie offs 66, such as an eye cleat, a carabineer connection and the like to allow a worker to temporarily connect themselves, via a safety harness and appropriate webbing, to the platform.
Further, the platform may include a gate 66 and hole 70 so that the gate may be opened, for example the gate may be hingedly connected to safety railings 64, and a portion of the platform surface may be moved, for example by a hinge, so that a pathway is created from outside the platform to communicate with hole 70, located for example at the center of the platform. Such a pathway may allow the operator to position the platform about elements of the work structure so that workers may access the work structure from four sides (as shown in Figure 2).
The second boom may connect to the platform, for example by a pivoting or hinged connection, on one side of the platform such that a second staircase 72 may also be connected to the platform, on the same side as the second boom. In an alternative aspect, it may be possible that the second staircase is connected on a different side of the platform as the second boom, The second stair case may have a first end 74 that is connected to the walkway and a second end 76 that is connected to the platform. hi one aspect, the first end of the second staircase may have a slideable arrangement, for example a sliding bracket arrangement, with the length of the walkway (as shown in Figures 6A and 6B), In one aspect, the length of walkway 52 there may include a recess 78 on each side of the walkway, positioned proximal to the level of the walking surface of the walkway. First end 74 may have extensions 80 that extend from the lateral edges of first end 74 into an engage the recess so that when the platform is being elevated, along axis 102x, the second end of staircase 72 is connected to and thereby is elevated with the platform, whereas the first end of the staircase will be retained at the level of walkway 52, by the arrangement of the extensions and the recess. The second end of the staircase may then slide along the recess, generally from the direction of first end 13 the support structure towards second WSLEGALA066979\00001 U7789570v1 end 15. Dependent upon the operator's desired position of the platform, the second end of the staircase may be positioned between the first end 13 and the second end 15 of the support structure and as shown in Figure 2, the second end of the staircase may be positioned closer to, or abut against, the second end 15 of the support structure when the apparatus is in the extended position.
In one embodiment, staircase 52 may have a hand railing 81 substantially the full length of the staircase. Further, each stair of the staircase may include a tread 82 that is supported on either side by a stringer 84 that extends from the first end of the staircase to the second end of the staircase on either side of each tread 82. Each stringer may have an upper and a lower stringer and the tread may be connected therebetween (as shown in Figure 2). The arrangement between the tread and the two stringers on each side of each tread may be such that when the apparatus is in the collapsed position, the treads may pivot and lie substantially flat, for example with the tread lying substantially parallel to the stringers (as shown in Figure 1), but as the apparatus is moved towards the extended position, the treads may move from a flat orientation towards, and be fixed at, an extended position such that the treads may actuate about the connection with the stringers and provide an appropriate orientation for a worker to use the staircase. For example, when the apparatus is in an extended position, the treads may actuate, by the angular relationship between the two stringers, each treads' connection to the stringers and the connections between the first end and the second end of the staircase, to orient towards being substantially parallel to the level of the surface of the platform. As one may appreciate, the purpose of the treads is to provide a staircase that is safe and suitable for the sometimes harsh climate in which the apparatus may be employed. The surface of the tread may be similar to the surface of the platform to ensure that the worker has adequate frictional.
In one aspect, the support structure may also include one or more hydraulically powered outriggers 86 that may extend from each side of the support structure to provide greater stability of the apparatus. For example, each outrigger may include a foot pad 88 at the end of the outrigger distal from the connection, for example pivoting or hinged connection, to the support structure. The footpads may contact the ground to increase the surface area, by providing a greater footprint on the ground, over which loads associated with the apparatus are distributed.
WSLegal\ 066979 \ 0C1001 \ 65 1 5535v3 The outriggers may provide greater stability to the apparatus while in use and the outriggers may be collapsed towards the support structure for transport.
In one embodiment, support structure 14 may also include a control box 90 to permit a user to control the position of all hydraulic actuators, and thereby the position of platform 14. As one skilled in the art may appreciate, various technologies may be applicable to control the hydraulics and thereby the platform position, for example a hydraulic power pack or a dedicated diesel generator to provide power to the hydraulic system. In one embodiment, a diesel engine may produce power, substantially in the range of 15 to 30 horsepower in order to produce pressures in the hydraulic cylinders substantially in a broad range of 1500 to 4000 p.s.i. or more specifically 1500 to 2500 p.s.i.. Further, in an aspect of the present invention that utilizes hydraulically powered outriggers, the hydraulic cylinders associated therewith may be associated with upwards of 3000 p.s.i., or more, depending upon the operating conditions.
In one aspect, the support structure may be supported on at least one axle with wheels and tires on either side, for example the support structure may be a trailer with a hitch connection at one end that permits the apparatus to be towed behind a motorized vehicle, for example a one-tonne truck. In one embodiment, the total mass of the apparatus will not exceed 12,000 to 13,000 lbs while in a compressed position for transport behind a truck. However, when in the extended position, the apparatus may allow up to four workers to safely work on the platform.
The previous description of the disclosed embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. Various modifications to those embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the full scope consistent with the claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular, such as by use of the article "a" or "an" is not intended to mean "one and only one"
unless specifically so stated, but rather "one or more". All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various embodiments described throughout the disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are intended to be encompassed by the elements of the claims.
VVSLegan066979\0000116515535v3
Claims (6)
1. An apparatus to provide access to elevated work structures, the apparatus comprising:
(a) a support structure including a walkway that extends from a first end to a second end of the structure;
(b) a first boom connected at a first end to the support structure, at least one first actuator to position the first boom along a first axis, and the first boom connected at a second end to a first end of a second boom;
(c) a second boom connected at a first end to the second end of the first boom, at least one second actuator to position the second boom along a second axis that is substantially normal to the first axis;
(d) a platform connected to the second end of the second boom; and (e) a staircase including a first end and a second end, the second end connected to the platform and the first end of the staircase slidably arranged with the walkway so that as the platform is positioned along the first and the second axis, the staircase is positioned to provide access to the platform.
(a) a support structure including a walkway that extends from a first end to a second end of the structure;
(b) a first boom connected at a first end to the support structure, at least one first actuator to position the first boom along a first axis, and the first boom connected at a second end to a first end of a second boom;
(c) a second boom connected at a first end to the second end of the first boom, at least one second actuator to position the second boom along a second axis that is substantially normal to the first axis;
(d) a platform connected to the second end of the second boom; and (e) a staircase including a first end and a second end, the second end connected to the platform and the first end of the staircase slidably arranged with the walkway so that as the platform is positioned along the first and the second axis, the staircase is positioned to provide access to the platform.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a mechanism for moving the first boom along a third axis that is substantially normal to the first axis and the second axis.
3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the mechanism comprises a bushing arrangement between the first boom and the support structure on which the first boom is moved along the third axis.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one first actuator comprises a hydraulically operable cylinder configured to move the first boom to numerous positions in and along the first axis and the second axis.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one second actuator comprises a hydraulically operable cylinder configured to move the second boom to numerous positions in and along the first axis and the second axis.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a recess extending along each side of the walkway and the staircase includes on the first end a lateral extension secured slidably and pivotally in each recess such that the staircase is slidably arranged with the walkway.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2726088A CA2726088C (en) | 2010-12-21 | 2010-12-21 | A mobile lift platform |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2726088A CA2726088C (en) | 2010-12-21 | 2010-12-21 | A mobile lift platform |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2726088A1 CA2726088A1 (en) | 2012-06-21 |
| CA2726088C true CA2726088C (en) | 2018-02-20 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2726088A Expired - Fee Related CA2726088C (en) | 2010-12-21 | 2010-12-21 | A mobile lift platform |
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| Country | Link |
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| CA (1) | CA2726088C (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CA2924982C (en) | 2016-03-24 | 2023-09-19 | Adam Toma | Mobile well servicing units and related methods |
| US10858893B2 (en) | 2018-02-02 | 2020-12-08 | Adam Toma | Laterally movable mobile well servicing units and methods of use |
| CN109178222A (en) * | 2018-09-25 | 2019-01-11 | 南通力威机械有限公司 | A kind of double harbour is gone on board device |
| CN112421455B (en) * | 2020-10-26 | 2022-10-11 | 湖北工业大学 | Power transformation and distribution maintenance device |
| CN112523698B (en) * | 2021-01-07 | 2022-07-01 | 东营市汉德自动化集成有限公司 | Foldable top drive guide rail |
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2010
- 2010-12-21 CA CA2726088A patent/CA2726088C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
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|---|---|
| CA2726088A1 (en) | 2012-06-21 |
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