GB2537065A

GB2537065A - Suspended platform system

Info

Publication number: GB2537065A
Application number: GB1611937.2A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Herbert Kevan
Original assignee: APOLLO CRADLES Ltd
Current assignee: APOLLO CRADLES Ltd
Priority date: 2013-03-15
Filing date: 2013-03-15
Publication date: 2016-10-05
Anticipated expiration: 2033-03-15
Also published as: GB2537065B; GB201611942D0; GB201611937D0; GB201304727D0; GB2511847A; GB2511847B; GB2537067A; GB2537067B

Abstract

A suspended platform system has tensioned flexible members, such as wire cables (102, fig 1), spanning a gap. Modular platforms (112, fig 1) are suspended on at least two adjacent tensioned wires, and suspension members (114, fig 1) are attached to an overhead support. Each of the suspension members depends downwardly from the overhead support, such as an underside of a bridge or an oil rig, and there are coupling assemblies (120, fig 1) associated with lower ends of the suspension members. Each one of the coupling assemblies couples one of the suspension members to a selected one of the tensioned wires. Furthermore, the suspended platform has elongate safety attachments interconnecting modular platforms. The safety attachments may be pins (502, fig 5) or cables 602.

Description

SUSPENDED PLATFORM SYSTEM

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to suspended platform systems. The present invention is particularly useful for, but not necessarily limited to, suspended platform systems for temporary access to undersides of structures.

Background of the Invention

[0002] Suspended platform systems, sometimes referred to as catenary wire scaffolding, are often used by workers that are working on structures such as buildings, bridges, tunnels, viaducts, oil rigs and piers. Such suspended platform systems are often used for temporary access to undersides of structures typically for maintenance, installation, cleaning or painting purposes. Once the temporary access is no longer required the suspended platform system can be dismantled and deployed on another structure.

[0003] Suspended platform systems are typically required when conventional ground supported rigid scaffolding is unsuitable or impractical. For example, the cost and safety issues associated with very high structures are factors to consider when determining the practicality of conventional ground supported rigid scaffolding. Also, conventional ground supported rigid scaffolding is often impractical when work is required to be undertaken on an underside of a pier, oil rig or a bridge spanning a body of water.

[0004] Suspended platform systems are supported by tensioned cables that support modular platforms upon which personnel work. The weight of these platforms combined with the weight of personnel, work materials and tools can overload one or more of the cables and therefore one of these cables occasionally breaks resulting some of the platforms falling to the ground or body of water below the platform system.

[0005] The tensioned cables have inherent flexibility and so do the platforms. These platforms are free to flex vertically with respect to each other. As a result, when personnel step on one of the platforms, its upper surface may bend below adjacent platforms causing a potential tripping hazard. To compound the danger of the potential tripping hazard, suspended platform systems have side netting or wire rails which may not have sufficient rigidity or support to reduce the possibility of personnel falling to the ground or body of water below the platform system.

Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a suspended platform system including: tensioned flexible members spanning a gap; modular platforms suspended on at least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members; elongate suspension members attached to an overhead support, wherein 20 each one of the elongate suspension members depends downwardly from the overhead support; and coupling assemblies associated with respective lower ends of the suspension members, wherein each one of the coupling assemblies couples one 25 of the suspension members to a selected one of the tensioned flexible members and each of the coupling assemblies has a first clamp that grips the selected one of the tensioned flexible members.

[0007] Suitably, each of the coupling assemblies further includes a second clamp that grips the selected one of the tensioned flexible members, the second clamp being spaced from the first clamp.

[0008] Preferably, each of the coupling assemblies further includes a coupling member attached to said one of the suspension members, the coupling member capturing the selected one of the tensioned flexible members and the coupling member being captive in a space between the first clamp and second clamp thereby limiting movement of the coupling member along a length of the selected one of the tensioned flexible members.

[0009] Suitably, the first clamp is fixed to the said one of the suspension members.

[0010] Preferably, first clamp is a wire rope grip.

[0011] Suitably, the modular platforms have slots therein that engage a respective one of said tensioned flexible members.

[0012] Preferably, each of the modular platforms includes: spaced parallel beams spanning the least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members; and braces interconnecting the spaced parallel beams.

[0013] Suitably, the slots are formed at respective ends of the spaced parallel beams.

[0014] Preferably, each one of the slots forms a hook.

[0015] Suitably, at least two adjacent said modular platforms are interconnected by elongate safety attachments engaging at least one of the parallel beams of each one of the two adjacent said modular platforms.

[0016] Preferably, the elongate safety attachments interconnect adjacent modular platforms between two adjacent elongate suspension members supporting one of the respective tensioned flexible members.

[0017] Preferably, the elongate safety attachments are pins.

[0018] Suitably, the pins rigidly interconnect the adjacent said modular platforms.

[0019] Preferably, the pins are held captive in engaging apertures in a pin holding spaced parallel beam of a first one of the adjacent said modular platforms.

[0020] Suitably, the pins are permanently mounted to a pin holding spaced parallel beam of a first one of the adjacent said modular platforms.

[0021] Preferably, the pins are held captive in the engaging apertures in a pin receiving parallel beam of a second one of the adjacent said modular platforms, the pin holding and pin receiving spaced parallel beams being adjacent each other.

[0022] Suitably, in an alternative form the elongate safety attachments are cables passing through apertures in the parallel beams.

[0023] Preferably, there is a safety rail mounted to at least one of the modular platforms.

[0024] Suitably, the safety rail includes: upright posts engaging respective post sockets in one of the modular platforms; and at least one hand rail extending between the upright posts.

[0025] Preferably, the safety rail is attached to at least one of the suspension members.

[0026] Suitably, the hand rail is clamped to at least one of the suspension members.

[0027] Preferably, the hand rail includes an elongate rigid member.

[0028] Suitably, the elongate rigid member is a tube.

[0029] Preferably, a maximum movement of the hand rail is less than 30 millimetres when a horizontal force of 150 Newtons is applied to any location along the hand rail.

[0030] Suitably, the modular platforms include a floor.

[0031] Preferably, the floor is formed from grated panels. In one alternative preferable form the floor is formed from sheeting.

[0032] Preferably, the elongate suspension members are rods or tubes. In one alternative preferable form the elongate suspension members are cables.

[0033] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a suspended platform system including: tensioned flexible members spanning a gap; modular platforms suspended on at least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members, each modular platform having spaced parallel beams spanning at least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members and braces interconnecting the spaced parallel beams; elongate suspension members attached to an overhead support, wherein each one of the elongate suspension members depends downwardly from the overhead support; coupling assemblies associated with respective lower ends of the elongate suspension members, each one of the coupling assemblies coupling one of the elongate suspension members to a selected one of the tensioned flexible members; and elongate safety attachments interconnecting at least two adjacent said modular platforms that are suspended by common said tensioned flexible members, wherein the elongate safety attachments engage at least one of the parallel beams of each one of the two adjacent said modular platforms.

[0034] Preferably, the elongate safety attachments interconnect adjacent modular platforms between two adjacent elongate suspension members supporting one of the respective tensioned flexible members.

[0035] Suitably, the elongate safety attachments are pins.

[0036] Preferably, the pins rigidly interconnect the adjacent said modular platforms.

[0037] Suitably, the pins are held captive in engaging apertures in a pin holding spaced parallel beam of a first one of the adjacent said modular platforms.

[0038] Preferably, the pins are permanently mounted to a pin holding spaced parallel beam of a first one of the adjacent said modular platforms.

[0039] Suitably, the pins are held captive in the engaging apertures in a pin receiving parallel beam of a second one of the adjacent said modular platforms, the pin holding and pin receiving spaced parallel beams being adjacent each other.

[0040] Preferably, in an alternative form the elongate safety attachments are cables passing through apertures in the parallel beams.

[0041] Suitably, the modular platforms have slots therein that engage a respective one of said tensioned flexible members.

[0042] Preferably, the slots are formed at respective ends of the spaced parallel beams.

[0043] Suitably, each one of the slots forms a hook.

[0044] Preferably, there is a safety rail mounted to at least one of the modular platforms.

[0045] Suitably, the safety rail includes: upright posts engaging respective post sockets in one of the modular platforms; and at least one hand rail extending between the upright posts.

[0046] Preferably, the safety rail is attached to at least one of the suspension members.

[0047] Suitably, hand rail is clamped to at least one of the suspension members.

[0048] Preferably, the hand rail includes an elongate rigid member.

[0049] Suitably, the elongate rigid member is a tube.

[0050] Preferably, a maximum movement of the hand rail is less than 30 millimetres when a horizontal force of 150 Newtons is applied to any location along the hand rail.

[0051] Suitably, the modular platforms include a floor.

[0052] Preferably, the floor is formed from grated panels. In one alternative preferable form the floor is formed from sheeting.

[0053] Preferably, the elongate suspension members are rods or tubes. In one alternative preferable form the elongate suspension members are cables.

[0054] According to a third aspect of the present invention, thee is provided a suspended platform system including: tensioned flexible members spanning a gap; modular platforms suspended on at least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members; elongate suspension members attached to an overhead support, wherein each one of the elongate suspension members depends downwardly from the 25 overhead support; coupling assemblies associated with respective lower ends of the elongate suspension members wherein each one of the coupling assemblies couples one of the suspension members to a selected one of the tensioned flexible members; 30 and a safety rail mounted to at least one of the modular platforms.

[0055] Preferably, the safety rail includes: upright posts engaging respective post sockets in one of the modular platforms; and at least one hand rail extending between the upright posts.

[0056] Suitably, the safety rail is attached to at least one of the suspension 10 members.

[0057] Preferably, the hand rail is clamped to at least one of the suspension members.

[0058] Suitably, the hand rail includes an elongate rigid member.

[0059] Preferably, the elongate rigid member is a tube.

[0060] Suitably, a maximum movement of the hand rail is less than 30 millimetres when a horizontal force of 150 Newtons is applied to any location along the hand rail.

[0061] Preferably, each modular platform includes: spaced parallel beams spanning the least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members; and braces interconnecting the spaced parallel beams.

[0062] Suitably, the post sockets are formed in corners where the respective one of the braces engages one of the parallel beams.

[0063] Preferably, the braces and the parallel beams form at least two respective walls of the post sockets.

[0064] Suitably, the post sockets are further formed by respective cross 5 members mounted at an angle between the braces and the parallel beams.

[0065] Preferably, the post sockets include a floor member for supporting one of the upright posts.

[0066] Suitably, the modular platforms include a floor.

[0067] Preferably, the floor is formed from grated panels. In one alternative preferable form the floor is formed from sheeting.

[0068] Preferably, the elongate suspension members are rods or tubes.

In one alternative preferable form the elongate suspension members are cables.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0069] For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of part of a suspended platform system in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is a detailed perspective view primarily of one of the coupling assemblies of Figure 1 in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 is a detailed perspective view primarily of one of the coupling assemblies of Figure 1 in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 is a perspective view of three adjacent modular platforms of the system of Figure 1 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is a perspective view of an elongate safety attachment engaging adjacent parallel beams of two modular platforms of the system of Figure 1 in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 is a perspective view of the an elongate safety attachment engaging adjacent parallel beams of two modular platforms of the system of Figure 1 in accordance with a further preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 is a perspective view from above of part of a modular platform and safety rail 412 of the system of Figure 1 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 8 is a perspective view of part of three adjacent modular platforms of the system of Figure 1 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0070] There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventors. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the description.

[0071] Referring to figure 1 there is illustrated a perspective view of part of a suspended platform system 100 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The suspended platform system 100 has tensioned flexible members in the form of tensioned cables 102 spanning a gap 104. These tensioned cables 102 are often known as catenary wires of cables and the gap 104 in this illustration is a space between a pair of tensioned cables 102. The tensioned cables 102 which, in combination with thinner secondary pillars 108, support an upper structure 110 such as a road, railway line or any other functional platform. As shown, this particular upper structure 110 includes a plurality of ridged slabs supported on pillars 106,108 in which for clarity purposes only one of the slabs is shown.

[0072] The suspended platform system 100 includes modular platforms 112 suspended on adjacent tensioned wire cables 102 such as cables 102A and 1026. There are also elongate suspension members 114 attached to an overhead support provided by a ceiling or underside 116 of the upper structure 110. Each of the elongate suspension members 114 is attached to the underside 118 by a bracket 118 and each one of the elongate suspension members 114 depends downwardly from the underside 116 towards one of the tensioned wire cables 102.

[0073] The suspended platform system 100 has coupling assemblies 120 associated with respective lower ends of the elongate suspension members 114. More specifically, each one of the coupling assemblies 120 couples one of the elongate suspension members 114 to a selected tensioned wire cable 102.

[0074] As illustrated, the tensioned wire cables 102 are fixed to spaced rigid beams 122 (only one of which is illustrated), and the rigid beams 122 are typically clamped or bolted to the pillars 106, 108. Tension to the wire cables 102 is provided either by turnbuckles or by a tensioning tool and in this specific embodiment the system 100 includes modular platforms 112 suspended on adjacent tensioned wire cables 102 spanning a gap defined by the thickness (diameter) of the secondary pillars 108.

[0075] Referring to figure 2 there is illustrated a detailed perspective view primarily of one of the coupling assemblies 120 in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention. The coupling assembly 120 has a first clamp 202 that grips a selected one of the tensioned wire cables 102. There is also a second clamp 204 that grips the selected one of the tensioned wire cables 102 and in this specific embodiment the clamps 202, 204 are wire rope grips as will be apparent to a person skilled in the art.

[0076] The illustrated coupling assembly 120 includes a coupling member 206 attached to its associated suspension member 114. The coupling member 206 has a removable threaded bar 208 that supports the selected one of the tensioned wire cables 102 part of a suspended platform system 100. This coupling member 206 captures the selected one of the tensioned wire cables 102. Furthermore, the coupling member 206 is captive in a space 210 between the first clamp 202 and second clamp 204 thereby limiting movement of the coupling member 206 along a length of the selected one of the tensioned wire cables 102. Also shown in this illustration is a slot 212 in the modular platform 112, and there are normally four such slots 212 in each corner of a platform 112.

[0077] Referring to figure 3 there is illustrated a detailed perspective view primarily of the one of the coupling assemblies 120 in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the coupling assembly 120 has a (first) clamp 302 fixed to its associated suspension member 114. The clamp 302 is typically a cable grip welded to its associated suspension member 114 and the clamp 302 grips the selected one of the tensioned wire cables 102.

[0078] Referring to figure 4 there is illustrated a perspective view of three adjacent modular platforms 112 of the system 100 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Each of the platforms 112 have, in each corner, the slots 212 that engage a respective tensioned wire cable 102. Each of the modular platforms 112 includes spaced parallel beams 402 spanning two of adjacent tensioned wire cables 102. Intermediate races 404 interconnect the spaced parallel beams 402 to provide a rigid frame the periphery of which is formed by the parallel beams 402 and end braces 406.

[0079] The adjacent modular platforms 112 are interconnected by elongate safety attachments 408 engaging at least one of the parallel beams 402 of each one of the modular platforms 112 in which the elongate safety attachments 408 pass through apertures in the parallel beams. 402. There are shown three safety rails 410,412 and 414 mounted to one or more of the modular platforms 112. Taking for instance safety rail 412, mounted to a single modular platform 112, this safety rail includes upright posts 416 engaging respective post sockets 418 in the modular platform 412. Hand rails 420 extend between the upright posts 416 and are attached to the posts typically by scaffold clamps 422. As an additional safety feature, each of the safety rails 410,412 and 414 are attached by clamping to one or more of the elongate suspension members 114.

[0080] Referring to figure 5 there is illustrated a perspective view of the elongate safety attachment 408 engaging adjacent parallel beams 402 of two modular platforms of the system 100 in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment each individual elongate safety attachment 408 is a pin 502 passing through aligned apertures 504 in the adjacent parallel beams 402. The pin 502 has a transverse aperture 506 receiving a removable retainer clip 508 and there is also an intermediate flange 510 on the pin 502. The pin 502 is inserted into the aperture 506 of beam referred to as a pin holding spaced parallel beam 402A and after the clip 508 engages the transverse aperture 506, the pin 502 is retained and thereby held captive in the aperture 504 of the beam 402A by the flange and clip 508.

[0081] During assembly of the system 100 the pins 502 are held captive aperture 504 of the beam 402A by the flange and clip 508 and therefore the pins 502 should not fall and cause a danger hazard, the adjacent modular platform 112 can be slid along the cable 102 until the beam 402B approaches beam 402A and thereby resulting in the pin 502 engaging the aperture 504 of pin receiving beam 402B. If desired, a further transverse aperture and clip can be used to hold the pin 502 captive in the aperture of the pin receiving beam 402B. In another embodiment, the position of the clip 508 and flange 510 can be interchanged so the clip 508 and transverse aperture 506 are located at a central position along the pin 502 whereas the flange 510 is located at one end of the pin. Also, in yet a further embodiment the pin 502 is permanently mounted to the pin holding spaced parallel beam 402A by welding, brazing or pressing in which the pin is an integral part of the beam 402A. It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that, no matter which of the above pin 502 embodiment s are used, when suitably spaced along the adjacent beams 402 the pins 502 rigidly interconnect the adjacent modular platforms 112 so that three adjacent platforms 112 are interconnected between adjacent elongate suspension members 114 coupled and supporting a respective tensioned wire cable 102. Thus, it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the elongate safety attachments 408 (pins 502) interconnect adjacent modular platforms 112 between two adjacent elongate suspension members 114 supporting one of the respective tensioned cables 102.

[0082] Referring to figure 6 there is illustrated a perspective view of the an elongate safety attachment 408 engaging adjacent parallel beams 402 of two modular platforms of the system 100 in accordance with a further preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment each individual elongate safety attachment 408 is a cable 602 passing through aligned apertures 604 in the parallel beams 402. The cable 602 is clamped, typically at locations adjacent ends of the cable 602, by a respective cable clamp 606 and there are typically two such cables 602 spanning and interconnecting three adjacent modular platforms 112. In this regard, the spacing between adjacent elongate suspension members 114 coupled and supporting a respective tensioned wire cable 102 is spanned by the interconnecting three adjacent modular platforms 112 illustrated in Figure 6. Thus, again it will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the elongate safety attachments 408 (cables 602) interconnect adjacent modular platforms 112 between two adjacent elongate suspension members 114 supporting one of the respective tensioned cables 102.

[0083] Referring to figure 7 there is illustrated a perspective view from above of part of the modular platform 412 and safety rail 412 (without rails 410 and 414) of the system 100 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. As shown, each upright post 416 and each hand rail 420 are elongate rigid members that are typically scaffolding tubes. The post sockets 418 are formed in corners 702 where a respective one of the end braces 406 (and selected strengthened intermediate braces 404) engage one of the parallel beams 402. As shown, the respective end brace 406 and beam 402 form two respective walls 704, 706 of a respective the post socket 418 and each post socket 418 is further formed by a respective cross member 708 mounted at an angle between the brace 406 and the beam 402. In addition, the post sockets 418 include a floor member 710 for supporting a respective upright post 416, the floor member being a plate welded or otherwise fixed to an underside of the modular platform 112.

[0084] In this embodiment, the hand rails 420 are clamped to the upright post 416 by a scaffolding clamps 712 and the safety rail is attached to one or more of the suspension members 114 by the hand rail being clamped to a respective one of the suspension members 114 by a clamping assembly 714 formed, in this embodiment, from a wire clamp and scaffolding clamp. The diameter of the upright posts 416 and dimensions of the post sockets 114 are such that when an upright post 416 engages a post socket 114 a transition fit is formed. This transition fit in combination with the strength of the scaffolding clamps 712 and rigidity of the hand rails 420 and upright posts 416 provide for a substantially rigid safety rail. More specifically, a maximum movement of any of the hand rails 420 is less than 30 millimetres when a horizontal force of 150 Newtons is applied to any location along any one of the hand rails 420.

[0085] Referring to figure 8 there is illustrated a perspective view of part of three adjacent modular platforms 112 of the system 100 in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Each of the three adjacent modular platforms 112 have plates 802 typically attached by brazing or welding to ends of the beams 402. The plates include the slots 212 and each of the slots 212 form a hook located in a lower edge of one of the plates 803 and will be apparent to a person skilled in the art, the slots 212 are essentially at respective ends of the beams 402.

[0086] The modular platforms 112 include a floor which is typically formed from grated panels or meshing 806 welded, bolted or otherwise fixed to the beams 402 and supported by the braces 404, 406. In one alternative the floor can be formed from metal based panels or sheeting 808 which again is welded, bolted or otherwise fixed to the beams 402 and supported by the braces 404, 406.

[0087] In this embodiment, the elongate suspension members 114 are wire cables with a turnbuckle 804 that provides for suitable length adjustment to allow the suspension members 114 to support the tensioned wire cables 102. In alternative embodiments the elongate suspension members 114 are rods or tube and these rods or tube may have an integrated turnbuckle or similar length adjustment member.

[0088] Advantageously the present invention at least alleviates the problem of the modular platforms 112 falling to the ground or body of water below the system 100 when one of the cables 102 breaks. This is because the coupling assemblies 120 grip and hold a broken cable 102, and the elongate safety attachments 408 interconnect the modular platforms 112 between adjacent elongate suspension members 114 that support the broken cable 102. Thus, all the platforms are typically retained substantially in place, or at least stop the platforms 112 from falling to the ground, until a replacement cable is in position. Also, the pins 502 rigidly interconnect the adjacent modular platforms 112 and thus limit or restrict vertical flexing of the platforms 112 with respect to each other. Furthermore, the safety rails 410, 412, 414 and the like are rigid and therefore alleviate or reduce the possibility of personnel falling to the ground or body of water below the platform system 100.

Claims

Claims 1. A suspended platform system including: tensioned flexible members spanning a gap; modular platforms suspended on at least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members; elongate suspension members attached to an overhead support, wherein each one of the elongate suspension members depends downwardly from the overhead support; and coupling assemblies associated with respective lower ends of the suspension members, wherein each one of the coupling assemblies couples one of the suspension members to a selected one of the tensioned flexible members and each of the coupling assemblies has a first clamp that grips the selected one of the tensioned flexible members.
2. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the coupling assemblies further includes a second clamp that grips the selected one of the tensioned flexible members, the second clamp being spaced from the first clamp.
3. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 2, wherein each of the coupling assemblies further includes a coupling member attached to said one of the suspension members, the coupling member capturing the selected one of the tensioned flexible members and the coupling member being captive in a space between the first clamp and second clamp thereby limiting movement of the coupling member along a length of the selected one of the tensioned flexible members.
4. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first clamp is fixed to the said one of the suspension members.
5. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first clamp is a wire rope grip.
6. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the modular platforms have slots therein that engage a respective one of said tensioned flexible members.
7. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 6, wherein each of the modular platforms includes: spaced parallel beams spanning the least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members; and braces interconnecting the spaced parallel beams.
8. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 7, wherein the slots are formed at respective ends of the spaced parallel beams.
9. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 8, wherein each one of the slots forms a hook.
10. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 9, wherein at least two adjacent said modular platforms are interconnected by elongate safety attachments engaging at least one of the parallel beams of each one of the two adjacent said modular platforms.
11. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 10, wherein the elongate safety attachments interconnect adjacent modular platforms between two adjacent elongate suspension members supporting one of the respective tensioned flexible members.
12. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 10 or 11, wherein the elongate safety attachments are pins.
13. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 12, wherein the pins rigidly interconnect the adjacent said modular platforms.
14. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the pins are held captive in engaging apertures in a pin holding spaced parallel beam of a first one of the adjacent said modular platforms.
15. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13, wherein the pins are permanently mounted to a pin holding spaced parallel beam of a first one of the adjacent said modular platforms.
16. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the pins are held captive in the engaging apertures in a pin receiving parallel beam of a second one of the adjacent said modular platforms, the pin holding and pin receiving spaced parallel beams being adjacent each other.
17. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the elongate safety attachments are cables passing through apertures in the parallel beams.
18. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein there is a safety rail mounted to at least one of the modular platforms.
19. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 18, wherein the safety rail includes: upright posts engaging respective post sockets in one of the modular platforms; and at least one hand rail extending between the upright posts.
20. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the safety rail is attached to at least one of the suspension members.
21. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 19 or claim 20, wherein the hand rail is clamped to at least one of the suspension members.
22. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the hand rail includes an elongate rigid member.
23. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 22, wherein the elongate rigid member is a tube.
24. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 23, wherein a maximum movement of the hand rail is less than 30 millimetres when a horizontal force of 150 Newtons is applied to any location along the hand rail.
25. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the modular platforms include a floor.
26. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 25, wherein the floor is formed from grated panels.
27. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 25, wherein the floor is formed from sheeting.
28. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the elongate suspension members are rods or tubes.
29. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 27, wherein the elongate suspension members are cables.
30. A suspended platform system including: tensioned flexible members spanning a gap; modular platforms suspended on at least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members, each modular platform having spaced parallel beams spanning at least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members and braces interconnecting the spaced parallel beams; elongate suspension members attached to an overhead support, wherein each one of the elongate suspension members depends downwardly from the overhead support; coupling assemblies associated with respective lower ends of the elongate suspension members, each one of the coupling assemblies coupling one of the elongate suspension members to a selected one of the tensioned flexible 20 members; and elongate safety attachments interconnecting at least two adjacent said modular platforms that are suspended by common said tensioned flexible members, wherein the elongate safety attachments engage at least one of the parallel beams of each one of the two adjacent said modular platforms.
31. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 30, wherein the elongate safety attachments interconnect adjacent modular platforms between two adjacent elongate suspension members supporting one of the respective tensioned flexible members.
32. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 30 or claim 31, wherein the elongate safety attachments are pins.
33. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 32, wherein the pins rigidly interconnect the adjacent said modular platforms.
34. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 32 or claim 33, wherein the pins are held captive in engaging apertures in a pin holding spaced parallel beam of a first one of the adjacent said modular platforms.
35. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 32 or claim 33, wherein the pins are permanently mounted to a pin holding spaced parallel beam of a first one of the adjacent said modular platforms.
36. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein the pins are held captive in the engaging apertures in a pin receiving parallel beam of a second one of the adjacent said modular platforms, the pin holding and pin receiving spaced parallel beams being adjacent each other.
37. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 30 or claim 31, wherein the elongate safety attachments are cables passing through apertures in the parallel beams.
38. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims to 37, wherein the modular platforms have slots therein that engage a respective one of said tensioned flexible members.
39. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 38, wherein 3 0 the slots are formed at respective ends of the spaced parallel beams.
40. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 38 or claim 39, wherein each one of the slots forms a hook.
41. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 30 to 40, wherein there is a safety rail mounted to at least one of the modular platforms.
42. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 41, wherein the safety rail includes: upright posts engaging respective post sockets in one of the modular platforms; and at least one hand rail extending between the upright posts.
43. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 42, wherein the safety rail is attached to at least one of the suspension members.
44. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 42 or 43, wherein the hand rail is clamped to at least one of the suspension members.
45. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 42 to 44, wherein the hand rail includes an elongate rigid member.
46. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 45, wherein the elongate rigid member is a tube.
47. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 42 to 46, wherein a maximum movement of the hand rail is less than 30 millimetres when a horizontal force of 150 Newtons is applied to any location along the hand rail.
48. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims to 47, wherein the modular platforms include a floor.
49. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 48, wherein the floor is formed from grated panels.
50. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 48, wherein the floor is formed from sheeting.
51. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims to 50, wherein the elongate suspension members are rods or tubes.
52. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims to 50, wherein the elongate suspension members are cables.
53. A suspended platform system including: tensioned flexible members spanning a gap; modular platforms suspended on at least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members; elongate suspension members attached to an overhead support, wherein 25 each one of the elongate suspension members depends downwardly from the overhead support; coupling assemblies associated with respective lower ends of the elongate suspension members wherein each one of the coupling assemblies couples one of the suspension members to a selected one of the tensioned flexible members; and a safety rail mounted to at least one of the modular platforms.
54. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 53, wherein the safety rail includes: upright posts engaging respective post sockets in one of the modular platforms; and at least one hand rail extending between the upright posts.
55. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 53 or claim 54, wherein the safety rail is attached to at least one of the suspension members.
56. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 54 or claim 55, wherein the hand rail is clamped to at least one of the suspension members.
57. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 54 to 56, wherein the hand rail includes an elongate rigid member.
58. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 57, wherein the elongate rigid member is a tube.
59. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 53 to 58, wherein a maximum movement of the hand rail is less than 30 millimetres when a horizontal force of 150 Newtons is applied to any location along the hand rail.
60. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 53 to 59, wherein each modular platform includes: spaced parallel beams spanning the least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members; and braces interconnecting the spaced parallel beams.
61. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 60, wherein the post sockets are formed in corners where the respective one of the braces engage one of the parallel beams.
62. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 61, wherein the braces and the parallel beams form at least two respective walls of the post sockets.
63. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 61 or claim 62, wherein the post sockets are further formed by respective cross members mounted at an angle between the braces and the parallel beams.
64. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claims 61 to 63, wherein the post sockets include a floor member for supporting one of the upright 15 posts.
65. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 53 to 64, wherein the modular platforms include a floor.
66. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 65, wherein the floor is formed from grated panels.
67. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 65, wherein the floor is formed from sheeting.
68. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 53 to 67, wherein the elongate suspension members are rods or tubes.
69. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 53 to 67, wherein the elongate suspension members are cables.
70. A suspended platform system substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.AMENDMENTS TO THE CLAIMS HAVE BEEN FILED AS FOLLOWS.Claims A suspended platform system including: tensioned flexible members spanning a gap; modular platforms suspended on at least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members, each modular platform having spaced parallel beams spanning at least two adjacent said tensioned flexible members and braces interconnecting the spaced parallel beams; elongate suspension members attached to an overhead support, wherein each one of the elongate suspension members depends downwardly from the (r) overhead support; CD coupling assemblies associated with respective lower ends of the elongate suspension members, each one of the coupling assemblies coupling one of the elongate suspension members to a selected one of the tensioned flexible members; and elongate safety attachments interconnecting at least two adjacent said modular platforms that are suspended by common said tensioned flexible members, wherein the elongate safety attachments engage at least one of the parallel beams of each one of the two adjacent said modular platforms.2. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the elongate safety attachments interconnect adjacent modular platforms between two adjacent elongate suspension members supporting one of the respective tensioned flexible members.3. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the elongate safety attachments are pins.4. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 3, wherein the pins rigidly interconnect the adjacent said modular platforms.5. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the pins are held captive in engaging apertures in a pin holding spaced parallel beam of a first one of the adjacent said modular platforms.6. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 3 or claim 4, wherein the pins are permanently mounted to a pin holding spaced parallel beam of a first one of the adjacent said modular platforms.7. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the pins are held captive in the engaging apertures in a pin receiving parallel beam of a second one of the adjacent said modular platforms, CD the pin holding and pin receiving spaced parallel beams being adjacent each other.8. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the elongate safety attachments are cables passing through apertures in the parallel beams.9. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the modular platforms have slots therein that engage a respective one of said tensioned flexible members.10. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 9, wherein the slots are formed at respective ends of the spaced parallel beams.11. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 9 or claim 10, wherein each one of the slots forms a hook.12. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein there is a safety rail mounted to at least one of the modular platforms.13. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 12, wherein the safety rail includes: upright posts engaging respective post sockets in one of the modular platforms; and at least one hand rail extending between the upright posts.14. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 13, wherein (r) the safety rail is attached to at least one of the suspension members.15. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 13 or 14, wherein the hand rail is clamped to at least one of the suspension members.16. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the hand rail includes an elongate rigid member.17. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 16, wherein the elongate rigid member is a tube.18. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein a maximum movement of the hand rail is less than 30 millimetres when a horizontal force of 150 Newtons is applied to any location along the hand rail.19. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the modular platforms include a floor.20. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 19, wherein the floor is formed from grated panels.21. The suspended platform system, as claimed in claim 19, wherein the floor is formed from sheeting.22. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the elongate suspension members are rods or tubes.1 o 23. The suspended platform system, as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the elongate suspension members are cables.AT