Classifications

• • 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
  • E04G5/00—Component parts or accessories for scaffolds
  • E04G5/02—Scaffold feet, e.g. with arrangements for adjustment
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
  • B63C—LAUNCHING, HAULING-OUT, OR DRY-DOCKING OF VESSELS; LIFE-SAVING IN WATER; EQUIPMENT FOR DWELLING OR WORKING UNDER WATER; MEANS FOR SALVAGING OR SEARCHING FOR UNDERWATER OBJECTS
  • B63C5/00—Equipment usable both on slipways and in dry docks
  • B63C5/02—Stagings; Scaffolding; Shores or struts
• • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
  • E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
  • E01D—CONSTRUCTION OF BRIDGES, ELEVATED ROADWAYS OR VIADUCTS; ASSEMBLY OF BRIDGES
  • E01D19/00—Structural or constructional details of bridges
  • E01D19/10—Railings; Protectors against smoke or gases, e.g. of locomotives; Maintenance travellers; Fastening of pipes or cables to bridges
  • E01D19/106—Movable inspection or maintenance platforms, e.g. travelling scaffolding or vehicles specially designed to provide access to the undersides of bridges
• • 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
  • E04G1/34—Scaffold constructions able to be folded in prismatic or flat parts or able to be turned down
• • 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
  • E04G3/00—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height
  • E04G3/24—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height specially adapted for particular parts of buildings or for buildings of particular shape, e.g. chimney stacks or pylons
• • 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
  • E04G3/00—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height
  • E04G3/28—Mobile scaffolds; Scaffolds with mobile platforms
  • E04G3/30—Mobile scaffolds; Scaffolds with mobile platforms suspended by flexible supporting elements, e.g. cables
• • 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
  • E04G5/00—Component parts or accessories for scaffolds
  • E04G5/06—Consoles; Brackets
  • E04G5/061—Consoles; Brackets specially adapted for attachment to scaffolds
• • 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
  • E04G5/00—Component parts or accessories for scaffolds
  • E04G5/08—Scaffold boards or planks
• • 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
  • E04G5/00—Component parts or accessories for scaffolds
  • E04G5/14—Railings
• • 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
  • E04G7/00—Connections between parts of the scaffold
  • E04G7/02—Connections between parts of the scaffold with separate coupling elements
  • E04G7/06—Stiff scaffolding clamps for connecting scaffold members of common shape
  • E04G7/22—Stiff scaffolding clamps for connecting scaffold members of common shape for scaffold members in end-to-side relation
• • 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
  • E04G7/00—Connections between parts of the scaffold
  • E04G7/02—Connections between parts of the scaffold with separate coupling elements
  • E04G7/26—Connections between parts of the scaffold with separate coupling elements for use with specially-shaped scaffold members

Definitions

• the invention relates, generally, to the field of construction and temporary structures that are erected to access various parts of various structures.
• the invention relates to the integration of supported work platform systems and suspended work platform systems and a structural assembly for accomplishing the same.
• Work platforms and other access structures allow workers to access difficult to reach worksites and can be assembled on the job site as needed.
• suspended work platforms allow workers to access the undersides of these structures.
• Suspended work platforms also eliminate the need to build standard work platforms and platform systems to significant and unwieldy heights.
• suspended work platforms are not always ideal for accessing some structures.
• Supported work platforms may be beneficial to provide improved access to some structures, even after suspended work platforms are in place. It may therefore be beneficial to install supported work platforms on top of suspended work platforms.
• Suspended work platforms use plywood panels secured in a frame-like structure to create a platform which is suspended from an overhead structure.
• the legs used with traditional supported work platforms impart large concentrated loads.
• the plywood panels used in suspended work platform systems are not able to withstand the pressures exerted by frame legs, and the loads must be properly distributed on structural members using dunnage and/or beams. Installing dunnage systems or beams requires significant equipment, effort and time. Further, dunnage systems only resist downward loads, and additional guy wires or bracing is necessary to resist sideways, upward or overturning forces.
• dunnage systems only prevent movement in a single direction, and a significant amount of extra equipment and material is needed to prevent standard work platform systems from moving or shifting when installed on a suspended work platform system.
• Dunnage cannot truly structurally integrate a standard supported work platform system with a suspended work platform system.
• the present invention provides a device for use with work platform system, a work platform support system, a work platform system, and a method of manufacturing and installing same.
• the present invention provides an access structure integration assembly comprising at least one channeled structure, which may be a C channel, and at least one joist socket, wherein the joist socket is slidingly engaged with the channeled structure.
• the channeled structure is a C channel comprising a solid, flattened bottom portion; two flattened side wall portions extending upward from the bottom portion at approximately right angles, each side wall portion terminating in a flange extending at a right angle from the side wall portions such that the flanges extend toward each other; and a linear gap extending the length of the C channel and having a width.
• the joist socket is slidingly engaged with the channeled structure using at least one T-bolt which is slidingly engaged with the linear gap of the C channel.
• the T- bolt comprises a head having a width greater than that of the linear gap.
• the joist socket comprises a hollow tubular body; and a base.
• the C channel is configured to secure to a base structure and the joist socket is configured to secure to a second structure.
• the base structure may be a suspended work platform system which is articulatable, and the second structure may be a supported work platform system.
• An access structure integration assembly according to the embodiments described herein may include a deck retainer.
• the present invention provides an access structure integration assembly comprising: at least one substantially squared channeled structure, the channeled structure comprising a solid, flattened bottom portion containing a plurality of apertures corresponding to the apertures of the deck retainer, two flattened side wall portions extending upward from the bottom portion at approximately right angles, each side wall portion terminating in a flange extending at a right angle from the side wall portions such that the flanges extend toward each other, and a linear gap extending the length of the channeled structure and having a width; at least one joist socket comprising a hollow tubular body and a base having a plurality of apertures; a plurality of T-bolts extending through the apertures of the joist socket and into the linear gap of the channeled structure and having a head portion with a width greater than that of the linear gap, wherein the T-bolts are slidingly engaged with the channeled structure and each of the T-bolts is
• the present invention provides a base structure comprising: at least one unit; at least two access structure integration assemblies secured to the at least one unit, each integration assembly comprising at least one channeled structure and at least one joist socket slidingly engaged with the channeled structure, wherein each channeled structure is secured to the unit.
• the channeled structure is a C channel which is a substantially squared tubular structure comprising a solid, flattened bottom portion; two flattened side wall portions extending upward from the bottom portion at approximately right angles, each side wall portion terminating in a flange extending at a right angle from the side wall portions such that the flanges extend toward each other; and a linear gap extending the length of the C channel and having a width.
• the joist sockets are slidingly engaged with the C channels using at least one T-bolt which is slidingly engaged with the linear gap of the C channel.
• the base structure further comprises a deck retainer secured between the unit and a C channel such that the deck retainer is parallel with the C channel.
• the joist sockets in any embodiment provided are configured to secure to a second structure, which may be a supported work platform system.
• At least one unit of the base structure comprises four joists interconnected with four hubs.
• the unit comprises at least two joists and each integration assembly is secured to one of the joists.
• the joists may contain a plurality of cage nuts and the C channels may comprise a plurality of apertures corresponding to the cage nuts so that the integration assemblies may be secured to the joists by a plurality of bolts, each bolt extending through an aperture of the C channels and engaging a corresponding cage nut.
• a base structure may include a plurality of units, each unit defined by four joists interconnected with four hubs, wherein the joists and hubs are interconnected such that the joists are copolanar with respect to one another.
• Each joist may comprise an upper element and a bottom element.
• the base structure may also include a plurality of integration assemblies, each integration assembly secured to the upper element of a joist and parallel to the joist.
• Each joist may further include a plurality of cage nuts, and each channeled structure a plurality of apertures corresponding to the cage nuts, such that the integration assemblies are secured to the joists using bolts extending through the apertures of the channeled structure and engaging the cage nuts.
• the base structure further comprises a plurality of suspension connectors secured to the hubs.
• the present invention provides a suspended work platform system comprising: a plurality of joists, each having an upper element and a bottom element; and a plurality of hubs, wherein the plurality of joists comprises at least four joists and wherein the plurality of hubs comprises at least four hubs; wherein the joists and hubs are interconnected such that the joists are coplanar with respect to each other; a plurality of access structure integration assemblies, each integration assembly comprising a substantially linear deck retainer comprising a plurality of apertures, a substantially squared channeled structure parallel with the deck retainer comprising a solid, flattened bottom portion containing a plurality of apertures corresponding to the apertures of the deck retainer, two flattened side wall portions extending upward from the bottom portion at approximately right angles, each side wall portion terminating in a flange extending at a right angle from the side wall portions such that the flanges extend toward each other, and
• the joists comprise a plurality of cage nuts which engage the deck retainer bolts to secure deck retainer and channeled structure to joists.
• the suspended work platform system may also include at least two suspension connectors, each secured to one of the hubs.
• At least one of the hubs may comprise a first surface with a set of openings; a second surface substantially parallel to the first surface, the second surface having a second set of openings; and a structural element connected between the first surface and second surface, wherein at least one of the first set and the second set of openings is co-axial with respect to one of the openings in the second set of openings.
• the joist sockets of the suspended work platform system are configured to secure a second structure.
• the second structure may be a supported work platform system, and the suspended work platform system may be articulatable.
• the present invention provides an integrated system comprising a base structure; a second structure; and at least two access structure integration assemblies, each assembly comprising a channeled structure, which may be a C channel, and at least one joist socket slidingly engaged with the channeled structure; wherein the base structure is secured to the channeled structure, and wherein the second structure is secured to the joist socket.
• the integrated systems may also include a deck retainer.
• the base structure may be a work platform system, such as a suspended work platform system or an articulatable suspended work platform system.
• the base structure may comprise one or more units, with at least one unit comprising at least four joists, each having an upper element and a bottom element, wherein at least two of the joists include at least four cage nuts; and at least four hubs, wherein the joists and hubs are interconnected such that the joists are coplanar with respect to each other.
• each access structure integration assembly is secured to a joist such that the integration assembly is parallel with the joist.
• Each joist may further include at least two cage nuts, and each integration assembly may be secured to a joist using at least two bolts which each bolt engaging one cage nut.
• each channeled structure comprises a solid, flattened bottom portion, two flattened side wall portions extending upward from the bottom portion at approximately right angles, each side wall portion terminating in a flange extending at a right angle from the side wall portions such that the flanges extend toward each other, and a linear gap extending the length of the channeled structure and having a width.
• Each joist socket may therefore be slidingly engaged with the channeled structure by a T-bolt slidingly engaged with the linear gap of the channeled structure.
• each joist socket comprises a hollow tubular body and a base.
• the integration assembly may comprise two joist sockets.
• the second structure is at least one unit of a work platform system, and the second structure may further be a supported work platform system or shoring.
• a supported work platform according to an embodiment may have at least two levels.
• the second structure may also include a barrier secured to it.
• an integrated system further comprises a third structure, the third structure comprising at least four hubs; and at least four joists, each of the four joists configured to be interconnected with at least two of the four hubs; wherein the joists and hubs are configured to be interconnected so that (i) one of the joists - and two of the hubs - configured to remain stationary; (ii) two of the joists are rotatable; and (iii) two of the hubs - and one of the joists - are translatable; wherein the two stationary hubs are each connected to the second structure; wherein, when interconnected, the two rotatable joists, the two translatable hubs, and the one translatable joist can articulate from an initial position to a final position with respect to the stationary joist and the stationary hubs; wherein the at least four joists are substantially coplanar with respect to each other in the initial and final positions; wherein
• the invention provides an integrated work platform system for suspending from an overhead structure, the system comprising: a first structure comprising at least two suspension connectors with a first end and a second end, wherein the second end is configured to secure to an overhead structure, a plurality of joists, each having an upper element and a bottom element, and a plurality of hubs, at least two of the hubs having a first surface with an opening configured to engage the first end of the suspension connectors, wherein the plurality of joists comprises at least four joists and wherein the plurality of hubs comprises at least four hubs and wherein the joists and hubs are interconnected such that the joists are coplanar with respect to each other; a plurality of integration assemblies, each secured to a joist and each integration assembly comprising a substantially linear deck retainer comprising a plurality of apertures, a substantially squared tubular C channel parallel with the deck retainer, each C-channel comprising (a)
• the second structure may include a plurality of coplanar platforms, at least one additional platform parallel to, but not copolanar with, the platforms, and/or at least three parallel, non-coplanar platforms.
• the present invention provides a method of integrated a second structure with respect to a base structure, the method comprising: providing a base structure; providing a second structure; providing at least two integration assemblies, each integration assembly comprising a channeled structure and a joist socket slidingly engaged with the channeled structure; securing the channeled structures of the integration assemblies to the base structure; and securing the joist sockets of the integration assemblies to the second structure.
• the base structure may be a suspended work platform system or an articulatable suspended work platform system.
• the second structure may be a work platform system.
• the prevent invention provides a method of installing a supported work platform system with respect to a suspended work platform system, the method comprising: providing a suspended work platform system that is suspended from a structure, the suspended work platform system comprising a plurality of interconnected hubs and joists such the joists are coplanar with respect to each other; aligning a plurality of deck retainers parallel to a plurality of joists such that the number of deck retainers is less than the number of joists and the deck retainers are each parallel with respect to each other; aligning a plurality of channeled structures collinear with the deck retainers, wherein the channeled structures comprise a solid, flattened bottom portion containing a plurality of apertures corresponding to the apertures of the deck retainer, two flattened side wall portions extending upward from the bottom portion at approximately right angles, each side wall portion terminating in a flange extending at a right angle from the side wall portions such that the flanges extend toward
• the method further comprises providing a work platform assembly on a second end of the supported work platform system frame members.
• the method may also further include providing an articulatable work platform assembly comprising a plurality of hubs and a plurality of joists connected to the plurality of hubs; and articulating the articulatable work platform assembly from an initial position to a final position, the articulating including at least one of rotating and translating one or more of the plurality of joists with respect to one or more of the plurality of hubs; wherein the plurality of joists are substantially coplanar with respect to each other in the initial and final positions.
• FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary unit for a base structure
• FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of an exemplary base structure
• FIG. 3 is an exemplary hub for use with the base structure of FIG. 2;
• FIG. 4 is a side view of base structure suspended from an overhead structure;
• FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the hub of FIG. 3 connected with a joist;
• FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a base structure and a unit frame prior to articulation
• FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 6 undergoing articulation
• FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the embodiment in FIG. 7 undergoing further articulation
• FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 8 undergoing further articulation
• FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the embodiment in FIG. 6 having completed articulation
• FIG. 1 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary base unit with multiple integration assemblies
• FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of a joist containing an access structure integration assembly
• FIG. 13 is a detailed view of a joist socket
• FIGS. 14a and 14b are exploded views an exemplary integration assembly
• FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a joist socket
• FIG. 16 is an end elevation view of an integration assembly
• FIG. 17 is an exploded view of FIG. 16;
• FIG. 18 is an end elevation view of an integration assembly secured to a joist
• FIG. 19 is an exploded view of FIG. 18;
• FIG. 20 is an exemplary base structure with an integrated second structure using a plurality of integration assemblies.
• FIGS. 21-24 illustrate exemplary integrated systems.
• overhead structure refers to any physical structure from which a work platform may be suspended.
• structure refers to any physical structure which is accessible using a suspended work platform system, with or without an integrated supported work platform system.
• a structure and an overhead structure may be the same. Exemplary structures and overhead structures include, but are not limited to, bridges, offshore rigs, boilers, boiler pendants, elevated and suspended structures, and ships.
• FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary unit 120 of a base structure 100.
• unit 120 which is a unit of a first work platform system, includes four joists 140 joined by four hubs 150 such that joists 140 are coplanar and secured with hubs 150 at approximately right angles. Hubs 150 and joists 140, together with optional middle support deck joist 52, provide a framework to support a platform 170.
• platform 170 is divided into two platforms 170A and 170B, with middle support deck joist 52 providing structural support between platforms 170A, 170B.
• a single platform 170 may be used, or platform 170 may be subdivided into two, three or more platforms.
• FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary base structure 100 comprising a plurality of units 120 joined together at hubs 150.
• base structure 100 is a work platform system comprising a plurality of work platform units.
• base structure 100 may be a single unit 120.
• base structure 100 may be any structure or system which provides a substantially planar surface having at least two coplanar joists 140 or a single joist 140 configured to have two coplanar portions, the portions not linear with respect to each other and separated by a distance.
• a joist 140 is any elongate structural member adapted for bearing or supporting a load, such as a bar joist, truss, shaped-steel (i.e., I-beam, C-beam, etc.), or the like.
• a hub 150 is an interconnection structure, such as a node, hinge, pivot, post, column, center, shaft, spindle, or the like.
• size, shape and arrangement of hubs 150 and joists 140 may vary to provide a work platform unit 120 and system 100.
• the length of joists 140 and positioning of joists 140 and hubs 150 can vary depending on the desired size and configuration of base structure 100. While the exemplary embodiments shown, units 120 are rectangular, forming an overall rectangular base structure 100 with joists 140 in one direction being longer than the joists 140 extending in the opposite direction, joists 140 may be any length and joined with hubs 150 at any angle permitted by the design of hubs 150. The size and shape of support platforms 170A, 170B may similarly vary depending on the configuration of joists 140 and hubs 150.
• base structure 100 is shown as an access structure, such as a work platform system.
• base structure 100 is shown as a work platform system designed to be suspended from an overhead structure (i.e., a suspended work platform system).
• the base structure 100 may be any base structure, as discussed above, including any type of access structure (i.e., suspended work platform system, supported work platform system, scaffolding, shoring).
• base structure 100 is any structure having at least one unit 120 having two coplanar, parallel joists 140. More preferably, base structure 100 is a work platform system, and even more preferably a suspended work platform system. In a most preferred embodiment, base structure 100 is an articulatable suspended work platform system as described herein.
• FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary hub 150 for use with a base structure 100, which in the exemplary embodiment described is an articulatable suspended work platform system.
• hub 150 is configured so that, when attached to a joist 140, it allows for articulation of both the hub 150 and the joist 140.
• Articulation as used herein, is defined as the capability to swing, and/or rotate, about a pivot point or axis.
• Hub 150 also permits unit 120, and subsequently a base structure 100, to be suspended from an overhead structure.
• hub 150 may provide for articulation of only hub 150 or joist 140, or allow no articulation.
• hub 150 may not permit suspension of the unit 120 or base structure 100.
• the hub 150 includes a top element 11 and a bottom element 12 spaced at distal ends of a middle section 15.
• the top element 11 and bottom element 12 may be substantially planar in configuration as well as being parallel to each other.
• the top element 11 and bottom element 12, in the embodiment shown, are octagonal.
• the middle section 15 may be a cylindrical section wherein a longitudinal axis of the middle section 15 is normal to the planes of the top element 11 and bottom element 12. In the embodiment shown, the middle section 15 is a right circular cylinder. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a lower portion of the middle section 15 is removed for clarity purposes to show that the middle section 15 is hollow.
• the plurality of openings 13, 14, extending through both the top element 11 and bottom element 12, respectively.
• the plurality of openings 13 e.g., 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G, 13H
• the plurality of openings 14 are similarly spaced on the bottom element 12 so that respective openings (e.g., 13A and 14A) are coaxial.
• a center opening 16 which is configured to receive a suspension connector for securing a unit 120 and base structure 100 to an overhead structure.
• the center opening 16 may be generally cruciform in configuration due to its center opening area 19 with four slots 17 (e.g., 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D) extending therefrom.
• slots 17 e.g., 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D
• Slots 17, 18 and center opening area 19 interact with and secure one end of a suspension connector 80 to hub 150, as shown in FIG. 4.
• the other end of suspension connector 80 secures to an overhead structure 90 to suspend a base structure 100.
• slots 17, 18 and center opening area 19 may have other configurations and designs so long as a suspension connector 80 can engage hub 150.
• a second reinforcing plate 20 may be added to the underside of the top element 11 wherein openings on the reinforcing plate 20 correspond to the center opening 16 configuration and all the ancillary openings thereto (17, 18, 19).
• a handle 22 is optionally added to the side of the middle section 15.
• FIG. 5 depicts a top perspective view of the interconnection between a single hub 150 and a single joist 140.
• the exemplary joist 140 illustrated in FIG. 5 includes an upper element 32 and a bottom element 33. Interspersed between elements 32, 33 are a plurality of diagonal support members 38. Each element 32, 33 is made of two L-shaped pieces of angle iron 39A, 39B called joist chords. Elements 32, 33 typically may be identical in construction, with the exception being upper element 32 includes connector holes 54A, 54B at its midspan.
• the joist 140 includes a first end 31A and a second end 31B.
• both the upper element 32 and bottom element 33 extends an upper connecting flange 35 and a lower connecting flange 36.
• connecting holes 37 Through both upper and lower connection flanges 35, 36 are connecting holes 37.
• at a first end 31A, extending from the upper element 32 is an upper connection flange 35A and lower connection flange 36A, with a connecting hole 37A therethrough.
• the second end 31A of the upper element 32 extends an upper connection flange 35B and lower connection flange 36B, with a connecting hole 37B therethrough.
• connection flange 35D At the first end 31A of the lower element 33 extends an upper connection flange 35D and lower connection flange 36D. Through these connection flanges 35D, 36D are a connecting hole 37D.
• connection flange 35C At the second end 31B of the joist 30 extending from the lower element 33 is an upper connection flange 35C and lower connection flange 36C with a connecting hole 37C therethrough.
• a pin may be placed through the connecting holes 37 and any two corresponding top and bottom openings 13, 14 of hub 150.
• a pin may be placed in through an upper connection flange 35 A; through an opening 13 A; through a lower connection flange 36A (all of the first end 31A of the upper element 32); through an upper connection flange 35D; through an opening 14A; and, then through the lower connection flange 36D.
• the pin further threads through connecting holes 37A, 37D.
• the pin may include two roll pins at its upper end, the lower of the two roll pins acting as a stop, thereby preventing the pin from slipping all the way through joist 140 and hub 150.
• the upper roll pin may act as a finger hold to allow easy maneuvering of the pin.
• joists 140 can be of any length and positioned at any angle which may be accommodated by hub 150.
• hub 150 When multiple hubs 150 and joists 140 are joined, such as in the case of a single unit 120 or a base structure 100, joists 140 may be pivotal on hubs 150 to create any configuration of units 120 and therefore base structure 100. Because of this articulation, the framework of units 120 may also be assembled in a collapsed form while a base structure 100 is in place and then expanded outward from the base structure 100. Once in a desired configuration, the unit 120 is secured to prevent further articulation.
• FIG. 6 shows an exemplary framework for a unit 120A assembled and joined to an existing base structure 100 at unit 120B.
• the new unit 120A is in its initial position, prior to articulation.
• FIGS. 7-9 clearly show through the motion arrows "M,” by a combination or rotation of joists 140D, 140E and 140F, and hubs 150D and 150E, the framework for unit 120A is able to move and rotate into its final requisite position (FIG. 10). That is, the unit 120A articulates into place.
• unit 120A may be locked into its final position using locking pins as described above.
• further articulation of unit 120A may be prevented by securing a platform 170 (not shown) in the framework.
• FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of an exemplary base structure 100 as shown in FIG. 2 with access structure integration assemblies 300 secured to some joists 140.
• access structure integration assemblies 300 include at least one joist socket 60 and channeled structure 50, which in the exemplary embodiment shown are secured to joists 140 running perpendicular to middle support deck joists 52.
• Access structure integration assemblies 300 are used to integrate a second structure 200, or unit 220 or framework 210 of a second structure, to a base structure 100 or unit 120 of a base structure.
• the second structure 200 may be any structure capable of being integrated using access structure integration assemblies 300, such as, for example, any access structure.
• Access structures include, for example, suspended work platform system, supported work platform system, scaffolding, and shoring.
• joist sockets 60 are arranged on channeled structures 50 which run parallel with and are secured to joists 140.
• channeled structures 50 are secured to joists which are perpendicular to middle support deck joists 52.
• channeled structures 50 may be secured to joists parallel to middle support deck joists 52 or both.
• channeled structures 50 are typically secured to joists 140 running in a single direction, such as those running perpendicular to middle support deck joists 52 as shown in FIG. 11.
• the distance between two joist sockets 60 on a given linear path of joists 140 (such as joist sockets 60A, 60C and 60D) is therefore variable, while the distance between joist sockets 60 on parallel joists (such as joist sockets 60A and 60B) remains the same.
• the length of joists 140 extending perpendicular to channeled structures 50 is equal to (or a factor or multiple of) the desired length of one dimension of a second structure 200.
• second structure 200 is a work platform system, and the length of joists 140 extending perpendicular to channeled structures 50 is equal to (or a factor or multiple of) the bay size of the work platform system or the length of a frame member for the work platform system.
• the second structure 200 is a supported work platform system.
• the bay size of most supported work platform systems, and therefore the length of most frame members for supported work platform systems can be 3 feet, 42 inches, 4 feet, 5 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet or 10 feet.
• the joists 140 of a base structure 100 which will be integrated with a second structure 200 which is a supported work platform system may therefore be preferably 3 feet, 42 inches, 4 feet, 5 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet or 10 feet in length.
• FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary joist 140 with an access structure integration assembly 300 comprising a single channeled structure 50 and two joist sockets 60.
• FIG. 13 shows the junction between a channeled structure 50 and joist socket 60 in more detail. As more fully described below, joist sockets 60 may be positioned and secured anywhere along channeled structures 50.
• channeled structure 50 is a substantially squared tubular structure having a solid, flattened bottom portion 51 with solid, flattened side walls 54 extended upward from bottom portion 51 at approximately right angles.
• Each side wall 54 terminates in a flange 53 which is at an approximate right angle inward from side walls 54 such that the flanges 53 extend towards each other but are not in physical contact with each other to form a linear gap the length of channeled structures, thereby creating a "C" shape.
• the inner and outer surfaces of flanges 53 are substantially planar.
• the channeled structure 50 is referred to as a C channel 50.
• C channel 50 is secured to joist 140 with deck retainer 58 between the joist 140 and C channel 50.
• Deck retainer 58 is a substantially linear, solid structure which transfers and distributes force from a second structure 200 integrated with the base structure 100 using integration assemblies 300 along joist 140, and specifically to joist chords 144.
• a toe board may be used instead of deck retainer 58.
• Joist socket 60 includes tubular body 65 structurally integrated as a single unit with base 62 and supporting braces 67.
• Tubular body 65 is configured to receive a framework 210 from a second structure 200 to integrate the second structure 200 with the base structure 100.
• the framework 210 is cylindrical to correspond to tubular body 65 of joist socket 60.
• shape and size of tubular body 65 may vary to accommodate any shape of framework 210 for a second structure 200 or unit 220 of a second structure.
• T-bolts 70 with nuts 78 secure joist socket 60 in C channel 50 while still permitting joist socket 60 to slidingly engage C channel 50.
• slidingly engaged means that two components (i.e., a joist socket and C channel) are secured to each other in a manner permitting sliding movement relative to one another.
• T-bolts 70 have a T-like shape such that the bolt head 72 is shaped to slide within C channel 50 and engage with the inner surface of flanges 53.
• nuts 78 are tightened on T-bolts 70 to lock joist socket 60 in place.
• T-bolts are able to freely slide within the linear gap of C channels 50, and joist sockets 60 are therefore slidingly engaged with C channels 50.
• apertures 69 on joist socket 60 align with apertures in a supported work platform system component, such as a leg, to secure a supported work platform system to suspended work platform system 100.
• joist socket base 62 has a width just greater than that of C channel 50 and a length sufficient to support a single tubular body 65.
• joist socket base 62 may be of any length to include one or more tubular bodies 65, and the diameter of tubular body 65 is dependent on the dimension of the leg or other component of a supported work platform system which will be engaging joist socket 60.
• the width of joist socket base 62 may permissibly vary depending on the diameter of tubular body 65 keeping in mind that T-bolt 70 must still fully engage base 62.
• framework 210 such as the legs of a second structure, will need to distributed weight to the joists 140.
• the strongest portions of joists 140 are panel points 144 (shown more clearly in FIGS. 14A and 14B) where diagonal support members 38 intersect.
• dunnage such as I-beams or other supportive materials, is placed over joists 140 to transfer the load of a second structure to the panel points 144.
• additional securing devices i.e., tie-downs, bracing, guy lines, etc. are therefore used to more securely support a second structure on a base structure.
• access structure integration assembly 300 secures a second structure 200 to prevent or limit movement in more than just the downward direction.
• joist socket 60 will prevent movement of framework 210 secured in it all directions along the x axis, y axis and z axis, including rotationally in each axis for a total of six potential types of movement, relative to joist 140 when joist socket 60 is secured in channeled structure 50.
• integration assembly 300 may limit or prevent movement in at least one, preferably at least two, and more preferably at least three of the above directions. In the most preferred embodiment, however, all six types of movement of a frame member 210 (and therefore second structure 200) relative to joist 140 (and therefore base structure 100) is limited or prevented by integration assembly 300.
• FIGS. 14A and 14B show an exploded view of the joist 140 with access structure integration assembly 300.
• integration assembly 300 comprises joint socket 60 and channeled structure 50, which in the exemplary embodiment shown is a C channel.
• bracket denoting integration assembly 300 as illustrated in FIGS. 14A and 14B encompass nuts 78, T-bolts 70 and deck retainer bolts 57, it is understood that these components do not form essential components of an integration assembly 300 as described herein.
• Other securing components and mechanisms may be used to secure a C channel 50 (and deck retainer 58, when used) to a joist 140, and joist sockets 60 may slidingly engage C channels 50 using structures and components other than T-bolts 70.
• Deck retainer bolts 57 secure C channel 50 to deck retainer 58 and joist 140 by engaging cage nuts 142 installed in joist 140.
• T-bolts 70 may be inserted through apertures 64 in base 62 of joist socket 60 to partially engage nuts 78.
• Joist socket 60 with T-bolts 70 loosely and slidingly engaged in apertures 64, may be slide over the end of C channel 50 such that the head 72 of T-bolts 70 is within C channel 50.
• the head 72 of the T-bolts 70 is wider than the opening in the C channel 50 so that the T-bolt head 72 engages the inner surfaces of flanges 53. Upward movement of the joist socket 60 relative to the C channel 50 is thereby prevented.
• nuts 78 are tightened on T-bolts 70 to secure joist sockets 60 in place using compression force.
• FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a joist socket 60 showing tubular body 65 with apertures 69 for engaging structural elements of a supported work platform system.
• Base 62 includes apertures 64 for receiving T-bolts 70 and supporting braces 67 for structural integrity.
• base 62 may include additional apertures 64 for T-bolts 70, and braces 67 may be of different sizes or configurations.
• FIG. 18 is side view of an integration assembly 300 secured to a joist 140.
• Deck retainer bolt 57 extends through channeled structure 50, which in the exemplary embodiment shown is a C channel, and deck retainer 58 and into cage nut 142 in joist 140 to secure C channel 50 to joist 140.
• FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the integration assembly 300 with deck retainer 58 FIG. 18.
• FIG. 19 illustrates aperture 59 of deck retainer 58 as having a protuberance around the underside of the aperture 59. As shown more clearly in FIG. 18, the protuberance around aperture 59 fits between the two L-shaped pieces of angle iron 39A, 39B of elements 32, 33 to provide additional stability.
• FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the integration assembly 300 with deck retainer 58 FIG. 18.
• FIG. 19 illustrates aperture 59 of deck retainer 58 as having a protuberance around the underside of the aperture 59. As shown more clearly in FIG. 18, the protuberance around aperture 59 fits between the
• second structure 200 illustrates an exemplary second structure 200 integrated with the base structure 100 shown in FIG. 1 1 using access structure integration assemblies 300.
• framework 210 of second structure 200 comprises interconnected legs which are secured in joist sockets 60.
• second structure 200 is a work platform system, such as a supported work platform system, comprising a plurality of individual units 220.
• base structure 100 comprises a plurality of units 120, and the framework 210 of the second structure includes a plurality of interconnected legs and is configured to define a plurality of individual units 220.
• base structure 100 may be only a single unit 120 or two or more units 120.
• second structure 200 may be configured to be a single unit 220 or have framework 210 defining a single unit 220.
• framework 210 of second structure 200 may secure platforms.
• integrated as used herein and in reference to a suspended work platform or platform system supporting a supported work platform or platform system means that all six forms of movement (i.e., linear movement along the x, y and z axes and rotational movement about the x, y and z axes) of the supported work platform or platform system is prevented.
• second structure 200 may be built at a convenient location on base structure 100 and slid into a final position after assembly. Similarly, a second structure 200 may be built and slid into different positions on base structure 100 to access various structures at different spots along base structure 100 as needed.
• access structure integration assemblies 300 transfer the pressures exerted by the framework 210 of second structure 200 to panel points 144, the size of second structure 200 is limited by the amount of weight joists 140 of suspended work platform system 100 can bear.
• the supported work platform system may include a single level or multiple levels, provided joists 140 continue to support the weight and pressures exerted by the supported work platform system.
• FIG. 21 illustrates exemplary base structures 100 which are suspended work platform systems, with integrated second structures 200 which are supported work platform systems.
• base structures 100 are suspended from structure 90, which is a diagonal beam.
• second structure 200 is integrated with base structure 100 using integration system 300 to provide access not only the undersides of structure 90, but also the side portions of structure 90 between suspended work platforms.
• FIG. 21 also shows that base structures 100 may be integrated with and depend on second structure 200.
• base structure 100 may be an articulatable suspended work platform system, with suspended work platform system 100b built off of supported work platform system 200a and suspended work platform system 100c is built off of supported work platform system 200b as described in relation to FIGS. 6-10. Therefore, to continue accessing structure 90 above supported work platform 200c, workers can assemble additional suspended work platforms, such as described in FIGS. 6-10, from supported work platform 200c and then assemble additional supported work platform systems integrated with the newly suspended platform system as described herein.
• FIG. 22 illustrates a further exemplary embodiment of a base structure 100 integrated with a second structure 200 using access structure integration assemblies 300.
• base structure 100 is a suspended work platform assembly and second structure 200 is a supported work platform assembly.
• Base structure 100 is suspended from an overhead structure (not shown) and used to access substructures 91.
• overhead structure not shown
• base structure 100 is suspended from an overhead structure with second structure 200, which is a supported work platform system, built upward from base structure 100.
• second structure 200 which is a supported work platform system, built upward from base structure 100.
• six levels of supported work platform are secured above base structure 100.
• the levels of the supported work platform system are parallel with, but not coplanar to, each other.
• the number of levels of second structure 200 integrated with a base structure 100 will vary depending on the job to be done and the maximum about of weight joists 140 can support.
• FIG. 23 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a base structure 100 with access structure integration assemblies 300 integrating a second structure 200, wherein the base structure 100 is a suspended work platform system and the second structure 200 is a supported work structure system.
• the supported work platform system is built upward from the suspended work platform system secured under structure 90, which in the embodiment shown is a structure spanning two points, such as, for example, a bridge or portion of an offshore rig.
• structure 90 which in the embodiment shown is a structure spanning two points, such as, for example, a bridge or portion of an offshore rig.
• base structure 100 is suspended under structure 90 and also extends outside the footprint of the overhead structure 90.
• Second structure 200 is built upward from the portion of base structure 100 which is not directly under structure 90 in order to access the sides of structure 90.
• a second structure may be integrated with a base structure to provide support for objects, such as tarps or barriers, as shown in FIG. 24.
• second structure 200 is integrated with base structure 100 using integration assemblies 300, and second structure is used to secure barrier 95 which is a tarp.
• barrier 95 prevents debris (e.g., dirt, dust, water, pollen) from entering the work area and damaging or disrupting the painting or drying processes.
• Barrier 95 also prevents contaminants (e.g., fumes, vapor, particles) from escaping the work area and entering the environment.
• Second structure 200 is therefore used to create factory-like conditions in the field.
• integration assembly 300 may be used to integrate a variety of base structures and second structures.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Architecture (AREA)
• Civil Engineering (AREA)
• Structural Engineering (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
• Floor Finish (AREA)
• Joining Of Building Structures In Genera (AREA)
• Bridges Or Land Bridges (AREA)
• Body Structure For Vehicles (AREA)
• Load-Engaging Elements For Cranes (AREA)
• Storage Device Security (AREA)
• Pallets (AREA)

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