GB2542225A

GB2542225A - A coupler and its method of use

Info

Publication number: GB2542225A
Application number: GB1609444.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Reay Norman
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-09-09
Filing date: 2016-05-27
Publication date: 2017-03-15
Also published as: GB201609444D0; GB201515927D0

Abstract

A coupler 10 for connecting a conventional scaffold tube 40 to a scaffolding component of a proprietary scaffolding system 12 comprises a body portion having a proximal end adapted to engage with the scaffolding component, and a distal end adapted to engage with the scaffold tube. A mechanism, for example threaded fasteners 38, 39, is provided to releasably secure the scaffold tube to the distal end of the coupler. The proprietary systems may include Ringlock, Allround , Kwikstage or Cuplock. The proximal end of the body portion may be V- or U-shaped, defining an opening that may be closed off by a captive gravity pin 18. A spigot or spindle may be provided on the distal end, allowing the tube to be connected to the scaffolding component at an angle. Also claimed is a scaffolding structure comprising vertical proprietary scaffold standards, ledgers of conventional 48.3mm tube and couplers.

Description

A COUPLER AND ITS METHOD OF USE

Technical Field Of The Invention

This invention relates to a coupler and its method of use. In particular, this invention relates to a coupler that can be used to quickly and easily couple conventional scaffold tube to a scaffolding component from a proprietary system scaffolding, such as Kwikstage®, Cuplok®, Ringlock® or Allround® for example. This invention enables conventional scaffold tube to be used as part of a proprietary system scaffolding.

Background

Scaffolding provides a platform for workers and materials. Scaffolding is available in two main types, namely “conventional” using scaffold tube, boards and fittings, and various “proprietary system scaffolding” which all employ a specialised modular connection that have been developed with the principal aim of speeding up the assembly of scaffolding.

In conventional tube and fitting scaffolding the couplings and the metal poles are separate components which can be connected together to construct a scaffolding structure. Due to the nature of the connection between the couplings and the metal poles at each junction, conventional scaffolding is considered very time consuming to erect and dismantle.

The United Kingdom is still the last bastion of conventional tube and fitting scaffolding. There are many in the industry that predict that this will change in the next three to five years with almost all UK scaffolding companies converting to proprietary system scaffolding.

There are two main reasons why the industry has not already converted to proprietary system scaffolding. One of the main reasons is due to tradition and heritage. UK scaffolders are considered by many to be amongst the best in the world using conventional tube and fitting, and therefore wish to prolong the changeover for fear of losing those skills. The second factor is the cost of changing over from conventional tube and fitting scaffolding to proprietary system scaffolding.

Despite the reluctance to convert, proprietary system scaffolding does offer many significant advantages over conventional tube and fitting scaffolding. Proprietary system scaffolding is up to five times quicker to erect and dismantle than conventional tube and fitting scaffolding. This can be a significant saving to any scaffolding company in terms of labour productivity. In common with many developed nations, labour costs are very high in the United Kingdom.

There are many types of proprietary system scaffolding available in the marketplace but the main systems are Kwikstage®, Cuplok®, Ringlock® and Allround®.

Kwikstage® is the least costly system to purchase. It is also the oldest proprietary system scaffolding and is still the preference in many countries. It is also the least productive of the main proprietary system scaffolding. With the Kwikstage® system the vertical scaffold tubes or “standards” are provided with several connection clusters evenly distributed along their length. These connection clusters, which are permanently-welded to the standards, each comprise one or more, and normally four, V-shaped sockets.

In the Kwikstage® system most of the components that form the horizontal elements of the scaffold construction (e.g. the ledgers and transoms) are provided with engagement means that allow the components to be securely connected to the standards at a connection cluster. The engagement means, which are usually located at the ends of each horizontal component, comprise two parts. The first part, which actually forms part of the horizontal component, has a wedge configuration that is receivable within the V-shaped socket of the connection duster. The second part, which is removable, also has a wedge configuration. Once the positioning of the horizontal component is complete the second part of the engagement means is hammered into the V-shaped socket thereby ensuring a secure connection.

Another well-established proprietary system scaffolding is Cuplok®. As with the Kwikstage® system, the Cuplok® system provides scaffolding standards that have several connection points evenly distributed along their length. These connection points comprise a lower fixed cup, which is permanently fixed to the standard, and an upper captive cup, which is permanently retained on the standard whilst still giving the upper cup a limited range of movement up and down the standard.

Very much like Kwikstage®, with the Cuplok® system most of the components that form horizontal elements of a scaffold construction (e.g. the ledgers and transoms) are provided with engagement means that allow them to be securely connected to the standards at a connection point. The engagement means used in the Cuplok® system comprise blades that have a curved configuration. The curved configuration of the blades allows a close contact with the curved surface of the standard to provide a robust and secure interconnection when held inside the lower and upper cups.

In recent years a further number of proprietary system scaffolding have found popularity in the marketplace. These are the Ringlock® and Allround® systems, which are both very similar in operation and for brevity hereinafter will be referred to simply as Ringlock® as this term describes succinctly the basis of operation which is centred on a ring or “rosette” which is welded onto the upright scaffolding standard, and evenly distributed along its length. Each rosette comprises one or more, and normally eight, openings or apertures that can safely and securely accommodate the horizontal and/or diagonal (e.g. cross brace) elements of the scaffolding structure via securing pins.

Whilst the connection mechanisms of all of the types of proprietary system scaffolding allow for quick and easy assembly and disassembly of scaffolding structures, they are not compatible with one another, or with conventional tube and fitting scaffolding.

This fact, together with the fixed location of the connection points along the length of the vertical standards used in all proprietary system scaffolding, means that the speed of assembly must be offset against the lack of construction freedom.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a coupler and its method of use which overcomes the drawbacks associated with known products of this type. The present invention allows for a quick and convenient means to couple conventional scaffold tube to a scaffolding component from a proprietary system scaffolding at any required angle. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a coupler that allows compatibility between conventional tube and fitting scaffolding and proprietary system scaffolding, and which allows scaffolders to convert their extensive stock of conventional scaffold tube to be used as part of a proprietary system scaffolding without the significant capital expenditure of purchasing the complete system. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a coupler capable of receiving a conventional scaffold tube without damage or any modification to the scaffold tube itself, which means that the scaffolder can revert the scaffold tube back to conventional tube and fitting at will. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a coupler that allows a greater freedom in the construction of scaffolding.

Summary Of The Invention The present invention is described herein and in the claims.

According to the present invention there is provided a coupler for connecting a scaffold tube to a scaffolding component of a proprietary system scaffolding, comprising: a body portion having a proximal end adapted to engage with and project outward in radial manner from the scaffolding component, and a distal end adapted to engage with the scaffold tube; and means for releasably securing the scaffold tube to the distal end of the coupler.

An advantage of using the present invention is that it can be used to quickly and easily couple conventional scaffold tube to a scaffolding component from a proprietary system scaffolding. The present invention enabling conventional scaffold tube to be used as part of a proprietary system scaffolding.

Preferably, the scaffold tube is a conventional 48.3mm tube and fitting scaffold tube.

Further preferably, the scaffold tube is formed in the precise dimensions defined by European Standard EN39.

In use, the scaffold tube may be formed from galvanised steel or aluminium.

Preferably, the scaffolding component is a Ringlock® rosette having a generally flat configuration with a central opening and a plurality of apertures disposed around the periphery thereof, each of the apertures capable of engagement with the proximal end of the coupler.

Further preferably, the scaffolding component is an Allround® rosette having a generally flat configuration with a central opening and a plurality of apertures disposed around the periphery thereof, each of the apertures capable of engagement with the proximal end of the coupler.

In use, the scaffolding component may be a Kwikstage® connection node having a plurality of V-shaped sockets disposed around the periphery thereof, each of the sockets capable of engagement with the proximal end of the coupler.

Preferably, the scaffolding component is a Cuplok® connecter having a fixed lower cup and sliding upper cup capable of engagement with the proximal end of the coupler.

Further preferably, the scaffolding component is fixed at regular intervals to a vertical scaffold tube or standard of the proprietary system scaffolding.

In use, the proprietary system scaffolding may be selected from the group consisting, but not limited to, any one of the following: Kwikstage®, Cuplok®, Ringlock®, Allround® and variations thereof.

Preferably, the body portion is elongate and rigid.

Further preferably, the body portion is formed having a unitary construction.

In use, the proximal end of the body portion may be V- or U-shaped and which defines an opening through which the scaffolding component can be received and engaged.

Preferably, the proximal end of the body portion comprises a pair of fingers or projections.

Further preferably, the opening is closed off by way of an engagement means passed through the pair of fingers and one of the plurality of apertures disposed around the periphery of the scaffolding component.

In use, the engagement means is a captive gravity pin or a fixed and complementary captive cup.

Preferably, the captive gravity pin further comprises welds or detents located generally at each end thereof.

Further preferably, the captive gravity pin is slidably moveable inside a channel formed in the pair of fingers.

In use, the width of the channel formed in one of the pair of fingers may be wider than the channel formed in the other one of the pair of fingers.

Preferably, each of the pair of fingers defines upper and lower surfaces in a plane generally parallel to the scaffolding component, the upper and lower surfaces being rounded or tapered to an apex at the proximal end of the coupler.

Further preferably, each of the pair of fingers is generally wedge-shaped.

In use, the pair of fingers may abut to a shoulder on the body portion and from which a generally cylindrical neck portion and a scaffold tube engaging stub extend at the distal end of the coupler.

Preferably, the scaffold tube engaging stub is dimensioned to receive the inner diameter of the scaffold tube.

Further preferably, the diameter of the scaffold tube engaging stub is no greater than about 38.8mm.

In use, the diameter of the scaffold tube engaging stub may be about 37.0mm to about 38.0mm.

Preferably, the length of the scaffold tube engaging stub which extends from the neck of the body portion to the distal end of the coupler is about 30.0mm to about 80.0mm.

Further preferably, the scaffold tube engaging stub has a cylindrical shape.

In use, the scaffold tube engaging stub may be formed as a tapered, truncated, chamfered and/or domed cylinder.

Preferably, the body portion further comprises a segmented collar portion which is used to secure the scaffold tube to the scaffold tube engaging stub.

Further preferably, the body portion further comprising a threaded fastener positioned in the segmented collar portion.

In use, the body portion may further comprise a pair of diametrically opposed segmented collars extending from the neck of the coupler.

Preferably, the pair of segmented collars further comprise threaded holes which are adapted to receive diametrically opposed threaded fasteners.

Further preferably, the pair of threaded fasteners being configured to provide a radial compressive force to secure the conventional scaffold tube around the distal end of the coupler when in use.

In use, the threaded fastener may be selected from the group consisting, but not limited to, any one of the following: slotted head, Allen® head and hexagonal bolt.

Preferably, in use the scaffold tube extends in the same plane as the generally flat scaffolding component.

Further preferably, in use the scaffold tube is used to form a horizontal component, ledger or transom of a scaffolding structure.

In use, the distal end of the coupler comprises a spigot or spindle.

Preferably, the spigot or spindle is free to rotate inside an aperture in a lugged open receptacle at the distal end of the coupler.

In use, the spigot or spindle may be threaded and secured to the lugged open receptacle through the aperture using a threaded closure nut.

Further preferably, the lugged open receptacle defining an internal bore being dimensioned to receive the outer diameter of the scaffold tube.

In use, the diameter of the internal bore may be about 48.5mm to about 50.0mm.

Preferably, the length of the open receptacle is about 50.0mm to about 100.0mm.

Further preferably, the scaffold tube is held in place via one or more threaded fasteners located in the side wall of the lugged open receptacle.

In use, a pair of diametrically opposed threaded fasteners may be located in the side wall of the lugged open receptacle.

Preferably, the pair of threaded fasteners being configured to provide a radial compressive force to secure the conventional scaffold tube inside the distal end of the coupler when in use.

In use, rotational movement of the lugged open receptacle about the spigot or spindle may enable the scaffold tube to connect to the scaffolding component at any angle.

Preferably, in use the scaffold tube is used to form a diagonal component or cross brace of a scaffolding structure.

Further preferably, the coupler is formed from a welded construction and/or machined and/or pressed and/or cast and/or forged from a suitable metal material.

Also according to the present invention there is provided a scaffolding structure, comprising: a plurality of vertical scaffold standards of a proprietary system scaffolding, the vertical scaffold standards comprising a plurality of scaffolding connection components fixed at regular intervals thereto; a plurality of ledgers, transoms and/or cross braces formed from conventional 48.3mm tube and fitting scaffold tube coupled to each of the plurality of scaffolding connection components via a plurality of couplers each having a proximal end adapted to engage with and project outward in radial manner from the scaffolding connection component, and a distal end adapted to engage with the conventional 48.3mm tube and fitting scaffold tube.

Further according to the present invention there is provided a method of connecting a conventional scaffold tube between vertical scaffold standards of a proprietary system scaffolding, each of the vertical scaffold standards comprising a plurality of scaffolding connection components fixed at regular intervals thereto, the method comprising the steps of: securing one end of the conventional scaffold tube to the distal end of a first coupler; securing the other end of the conventional scaffold tube to the distal end of a second coupler; and engaging the proximal end of the first and second couplers between corresponding scaffolding connection components of the proprietary system scaffolding such that the proximal end of the first and second couplers project outward in radial manner from the scaffolding connection components.

It is believed that a coupler and its method of use in accordance with the present invention at least addresses the problems outlined above.

It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that variations of the present invention are possible and it is intended that the present invention may be used other than as specifically described herein.

Brief Description Of The Dra wings

The present invention will now be described by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is an exploded view from the side of the coupler in accordance with the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a perspective view from the side and above of the coupler of Figure 1;

Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view from the side and above of the coupler of Figures 1 and 2 with a conventional scaffold tube connected thereto;

Figure 4 shows a perspective view from the side of a second embodiment of the present invention which is configured having a pair of diametrically opposed threaded fasteners to secure the conventional scaffold tube in place at the distal end of the coupler;

Figure 5 is a side perspective view of a third embodiment of the present invention which allows a variable angle adjustment of the conventional scaffold tube;

Figure 6 shows a side perspective view of the coupler of Figure 5 with the conventional scaffold tube extending upwardly;

Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view from the side and above of a fourth embodiment of the present invention which allows a variable angle adjustment of the conventional scaffold tube and which is configured having a pair of diametrically opposed threaded fasteners to secure the conventional scaffold tube in place at the distal end of the coupler;

Figure 8 is a perspective view from the side and above of the coupler of Figure 7 which is configured for use with Cuplok® proprietary system scaffolding; and

Figure 9 shows a perspective view from the side and above of the coupler of Figure 7 which is configured for use with Kwikstage® proprietary system scaffolding.

Detailed Description Of The Preferred Embodiments The present invention has adopted the approach of using a coupler to couple conventional scaffold tube to a scaffolding component from a proprietary system scaffolding at any required angle. Use of the present invention enables compatibility between conventional tube and fitting scaffolding and proprietary system scaffolding, and which allows scaffolders to convert their extensive stock of conventional scaffold tube to be used as part of a proprietary system scaffolding without the significant capital expenditure of purchasing the complete system. Advantageously, the present invention provides a coupler capable of receiving a conventional scaffold tube without damage or any modification to the scaffold tube itself, which means that the scaffolder can revert the scaffold tube back to conventional tube and fitting at will. Further advantageously, the present invention also provides to provide a coupler that allows a greater freedom in the construction of scaffolding.

Referring now to the drawings, a coupler 10 according to the present invention is illustrated in Figures 1 and 2. Specifically, the coupler 10 is for connecting a conventional scaffold tube (not shown in Figures 1 and 2) to a scaffolding component from a proprietary system scaffolding. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, the scaffolding component is a Ringlock® rosette 14 which is of an annular and planar configuration. At the centre of the rosette 14 is an opening through which the proprietary scaffold tube 12 is passed. In use, the proprietary scaffold tube 12 would be configured as a vertical standard, and several rosettes 14 are permanently-welded and evenly distributed along the length of the proprietary scaffold tube 12. In addition, the rosette 14 could be configured as a lockable rosette coupler which can be secured to the proprietary scaffold tube 12 as and when required.

Situated around the periphery of the rosette 14 are a plurality of openings or apertures 16 that, in use, receive the horizontal elements forming a scaffold construction (e.g. the ledgers and transoms), and the diagonal elements of the scaffold construction (e.g. the cross braces). With the Ringlock® rosette, eight individual connections can be made through openings or apertures 16.

The coupler 10 of the present invention makes it possible to utilise conventional scaffold tube instead of proprietary system ledgers, transoms or cross braces as will be explained.

The coupler 10 is formed as an elongate unitary body, and its proximal end (that is the end nearest to the rosette 14) is formed or defined as a V- or U-shape having two fingers or projections 22a, 22b which define an opening 24 therebetween and through which the generally flat rosette 14 can be received. The engagement of the coupler 10 of the present invention with one of the apertures 16 in the rosette 14 is explained in more detail below.

Running perpendicular to opening 24 formed between the two fingers or projections 22a, 22b, and generally in line with the proprietary scaffold tube or standard 12 to which it is connected, is a channel 26 which is dimensioned to receive a captive gravity pin 18. As will be evident from Figures 1 and 2, when connecting the coupler 10 to the rosette 14, a user simply aligns the opening 24 at the proximal end of the coupler 10 to one of the apertures 16 on the rosette 14. The coupler 10 is then secured in place by tapping the top of the captive gravity pin 18 with a hammer or other suitable implement so that it drops down across the two fingers 22a, 22b. To release the gravity pin 18, when dismantling the scaffolding, a user simply taps the underside with a hammer or other suitable implement to release it from the rosette 14.

To ensure that the gravity pin 18 cannot fall or become detached or misplaced, it includes two small welds or detents 20a, 20b which are situated generally towards the top and bottom of the pin 18, respectively, to keep it in place. The skilled person will appreciate that the channel 26 running through finger 22a is narrower in width than the corresponding channel running through finger 22b. The bottom weld or detent 22b is able to pass through the channel 26 located in finger 22b (not shown in Figures 1 and 2), but is not able to pass through the channel 26 defined in finger 22a.

As is most apparent from Figure 2, the two fingers or projections 22a, 22b are rounded or tapered across their width, parallel to the plane of the flat rosette 14, having a generally wedge-shape which tapers to an apex at the proximal end of the coupler 10 nearest to the rosette 14. In use, this is to allow multiple connections to any or all of the eight openings or apertures 16 in the rosette 14.

The engagement fingers 22a, 22b abut to a shoulder 28 from which a generally cylindrical neck portion 30 extends. A stub or projection 32 extends from the neck 30, which forms the distal end of the coupler 10. The stub 32 is dimensioned to receive the inner diameter of a conventional scaffold tube (not shown in Figures 1 and 2). The stub or projection 32 being dimensioned to fit inside the conventional scaffold tube 40, is best illustrated in Figure 3.

To ensure compliance with various British and European Standards of conventional 48.3mm scaffold tube, the wall thickness of conventional steel tube is between 3.2mm and 4.0mm. For 48.3mm tube formed from aluminium, the wall thickness is 4.47mm. British and European Standards also limit the tolerance of the outside diameter of conventional 48.3mm scaffold tube as ± 0.5mm. In a preferred embodiment, the diameter of the stub 32 is no greater than 38.8mm. Since conventional scaffold tube can be subject to rough treatment in use, and in transport, some slight deformation of the ends of tube is possible. To ensure that the stub 32 can slide freely within the internal diameter of well-used conventional scaffold tube 40, the diameter of the stub 32 is in the region of 37.0mm to 38.0mm. In a preferred embodiment the length of the stub 32, which extends from the neck 30 to the distal end of the coupler 10, is in the region of 30.0mm to 80.0mm. The stub 32 of the coupler 10 is formed as a cylindrical shape, as best shown in Figures 1 and 2, although the skilled person will understand that the stub 32 could be shaped in other geometrical configurations, such as, a taper or a truncated, chamfered or domed cylinder.

Situated around the periphery of the neck 30 is a segmented collar 34 which is used to secure the conventional scaffold tube 40 to the distal end of the coupler 10. In use, the conventional scaffold tube 40 is passed over the stub 32 to mate with the end of the neck 30, as shown in Figure 3. The conventional scaffold tube 40 is then held in place by securing a threaded fastener 38 through a corresponding threaded hole 36 in the collar 34. In a preferred embodiment, the threaded fastener 38 is a hexagonal bolt. Equally, the skilled person will appreciate that a threaded fastener 38 with a slotted head, or a grub screw with an Allen® head, could be utilised.

Clearly, whilst Figures 1 and 2 are illustrative of an elongate coupler 10 that includes only one segmented collar 34 having a similar width as the stub 32, this is in no way intended to be limiting as the present invention can be implemented with any number of segmented collars 34, i.e. two collars positioned opposite each other, or four collars at ninety degrees thereto, or an entire retaining ring capable of receiving the outer diameter of the conventional scaffold tube 40 and which projects from the neck 30.

The construction of the coupler 10 can be via any suitable form of metal fabrication, i.e. from a welded construction. Equally, the coupler 10 can be machined, pressed, cast or forged from a suitable metal.

The skilled person will appreciate that use of the coupler 10 enables a quick and easy engagement of conventional 48.3mm scaffold tube 40 to a proprietary scaffold tube 12, such that the conventional scaffold tube 40 projects radially and at right angles from the proprietary scaffold tube 12. In this way, the conventional scaffold tube 40 can be used to form the horizontal elements of the scaffold construction (e.g. the ledgers and transoms) of proprietary system scaffolding.

Figure 3 shows the use of the coupler 10 producing such an engagement forming a generally right angle between the conventional scaffold tube 40 and the proprietary scaffold tube 12.

Figure 4 shows a second embodiment of the coupler 10. The construction of the second embodiment is very similar to that of the first embodiment and corresponding features have been given the same reference numerals. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that instead of a single segmented collar 34 to locate the conventional scaffold tube 40 to the tube engaging stub 32 which extends from the neck 30 of the coupler 10, a pair of diametrically opposed segmented collars 34 are configured from the neck 30 of the coupler. The pair of segmented collars 34 including threaded holes 36 which are adapted to receive diametrically opposed threaded fasteners 38, 39, respectively. The advantage of using two threaded fasteners 38, 39 to secure the conventional scaffold tube 40 to the distal end of the coupler 10 is that a more secure equal and opposite radial compressive force can be produced.

It is also necessary when assembling a scaffold construction to include strengthening diagonal members or cross braces. Figures 5 and 6 show a third embodiment of the coupler 10. The construction of the third embodiment is very similar to that of the first and second embodiments and corresponding features have been given the same reference numerals. The third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that the distal end of the coupler 10, and particularly the projection or stub 32 for engaging with the conventional scaffold tube 40, has been replaced by a spigot or spindle 42. The spigot 42 is free to rotate in an aperture 44 disposed inside a lug 46 positioned at one end of an open receptacle 48 which, in use, is dimensioned to receive the outer diameter of a conventional scaffold tube 40, as best shown in Figure 6. The end of the spigot 42, projecting from the jawed projections 22a, 22b, can be threaded and secured to the lug 46 through the aperture 44 using a threaded closure nut 52, as best illustrated in Figures 8 and 9.

To ensure that the open receptacle 48 can receive the outer diameter of well-used conventional scaffold tube 40, the internal diameter of the open receptacle 48 would be in the region of 48.5mm to 50.0mm. In a preferred embodiment the length of the open receptacle 48, and denoted as line A in Figure 6 is in the region of 50.0mm to 100.0mm.

As with the first embodiment, the conventional scaffold tube 40 is then held in place by securing a threaded fastener 50 through a corresponding threaded hole (not shown in Figures 5 and 6) in the side wall of open receptacle 48. In the embodiment shown in Figures 5 and 6, the threaded fastener 50 is a grub screw with an Allen® head. Equally, the skilled person will appreciate that a threaded fastener 50 with a slotted head or hexagonal bolt, as depicted in Figures 1 to 3, could be utilised.

The skilled person will appreciate that the advantages of such a coupler 10 are that conventional scaffold tube 40 can be fixed at any angle between the scaffolding components of a proprietary system scaffolding. In the embodiment of Figures 5 and 6 the scaffolding component is a Ringlock® rosette 14. The conventional scaffold tube 40 can be utilised as strengthening diagonal member or cross brace.

Figure 7 shows a fourth embodiment of the coupler 10. The construction of the fourth embodiment is very similar to that of the first, second and third embodiments and corresponding features have been given the same reference numerals. The fourth embodiment differs from the first, second and third embodiments in that instead of using a single threaded fastener 50 in the side wall of open receptacle 48 which can be tightened to secure the conventional scaffold tube 40 in place, a pair of diametrically opposed threaded fasteners 50, 51 are configured in opposite side walls of the open receptacle 48. The advantage of using two threaded fasteners 50, 51 to secure the conventional scaffold tube 40 to the distal end of the coupler 10 is that a more secure equal and opposite radial compressive force can be produced. In Figure 7, the skilled person will appreciate that whilst one threaded fastener 51 is shown, the other threaded fastener 50 in the opposite side wall of the open receptacle or socket 48, extending away from rosette 14, is obscured and not shown.

Figure 7 also shows how the coupler 10 of the various embodiments of the present invention can be used on a single scaffolding component on the vertical standard proprietary scaffold tube 12 (in Figure 7 this is a Ringlock® rosette 14, although Figures 8 and 9 show the use of the present invention with Cuplok® and Kwikstage® system scaffolding, respectively).

As can also be seen in Figure 7, multiple connections to any or all of the eight openings or apertures 16 in the rosette 14 are possible. Use of the coupler 10 allows conventional scaffold tube 40 to be used to form a horizontal component, ledger or transom of a scaffolding structure. Equally, projecting from the same rosette 14, the conventional scaffold tube (identified as reference numeral 40' for ease of reference) is used to form a diagonal component or cross brace of the scaffolding structure. The end of the spigot 42, projecting from the jawed projections 22a, 22b, can be threaded and secured to the lug 46 through the aperture 44 using a threaded closure nut 52.

Figures 8 and 9 show how the coupler 10 of the present invention can be used with Cuplok® and Kwikstage® system scaffolding, respectively. The skilled person will understand that features described in relation to this embodiment of the invention, which enable a scaffold structure to include strengthening diagonal members or cross braces, can of course be featured in all embodiments of the invention.

Figure 8 shows the use of the coupler 10 with Cuplok® proprietary system scaffolding. Instead of a rosette 14, Cuplok® provides several connection points or clusters that are evenly distributed along the length of the vertical proprietary scaffold tube standard 12. These connection points comprise a lower fixed cup 54, which is permanently fixed to the proprietary scaffold tube standard 12, and an upper captive cup 56, which is permanently retained on the proprietary scaffold tube 12 whilst still giving the upper cup 56 a limited range of movement up and down the proprietary scaffold tube 12. The proximal end of the coupler 10 is adapted to engage with and project outward in radial manner from the Cuplok® scaffolding component 54, 56 via a pair of complementary shaped fingers 22a, 22b. The skilled person will understand that the shaped fingers 22a, 22b are partially obscured in Figure 8. The end of the spigot 42, projecting from the shaped fingers 22a, 22b is threaded and secured to the lug 46 through the aperture 44 using a threaded closure nut 52.

In use, conventional scaffold tube configured, which is configured as a diagonal component or cross brace 40' of the scaffolding structure, can be placed inside the open receptacle or socket 48 of the coupler 10 and secured in place using the pair of diametrically opposed threaded fasteners 50, 51 positioned in opposite side walls of the open receptacle 48 (threaded fastener 51 is not visible in Figure 8), as described previously in relation to Figure 7.

Figure 9 shows how the coupler 10 of the present invention can be used with Kwikstage® proprietary system scaffolding. Instead of a rosette 14, Kwikstage ® provides several connection points as V-shaped sockets 58 that are evenly distributed along the length of the vertical proprietary scaffold tube standard 12. Some of the components that form the horizontal elements of the scaffold construction (e.g. the ledgers and transoms) can be formed from pre-dimensioned L-shaped ledgers or transoms 60.

The proximal end of the coupler 10 is adapted to engage with and project outward in radial manner from the Kwikstage® V-shaped scaffolding component 58 via the U-shaped jawed projections 22a, 22b which are held in place using gravity pin 18.

As described previously in relation to Figures 7 and 8, conventional scaffold tube which is configured as a diagonal component or cross brace 40' of the scaffolding structure can be placed inside the open receptacle or socket 48 at the distal end the coupler 10 and secured in place using the pair of diametrically opposed threaded fasteners 50, 51 positioned in opposite side walls of the open receptacle 48 (threaded fastener 51 is not visible in Figure 9).

Clearly each of Figures 1 to 9 shown only one end of the conventional scaffold tube 40, 40'. The skilled person will appreciate that the respective other end of the conventional scaffold tube 40, 40' would be connected to a corresponding identical scaffolding component of a proprietary system scaffolding so that a scaffolding structure can be assembled. Such a scaffolding structure being a “hybrid” or “amalgamation” of proprietary system scaffolding and conventional scaffold tube which provides the advantages of both at a much reduced capital expenditure.

The coupler 10 of the present invention is considered particularly useful for smaller scaffolding companies and which allows scaffolders to convert their extensive stock of conventional scaffold tube 40 to be used with, and as part of, proprietary system scaffolding without the significant capital expenditure of purchasing the complete system.

The skilled person will understand that the present invention is configured as a universal coupler 10 that can be used to quickly and easily couple conventional scaffold tube 40 to a scaffolding component 14 of the main types of proprietary system scaffolding available in the marketplace, namely Kwikstage®, Cuplok®, Ringlock® and Allround®. It can, at any time, be converted back to conventional tube and fitting scaffolding. In addition, the universal coupler 10 is interchangeable, meaning that it can be used with any of the system scaffolding, for example, Cuplok® at one end and Kwikstage® at the other, at the same time.

Whereas the horizontal elements (e.g. the ledgers and transoms) of proprietary system scaffolding are limited to specific lengths, the use of the universal coupler 10 means that the ledger can be provided using of any length of conventional tube and fitting scaffold tube making it more adaptable when erecting, altering or dismantling the scaffolding structure.

In the United Kingdom, the length of the vertical proprietary system scaffolding standard 12 is limited to only 3m in length, meaning that the standard 12 has to be extended vertically every 3m. This join is considered a weak point of all scaffolding structures and reducing the number of joins ensures that the scaffolding structure is stronger. The longest conventional tube and fitting scaffold tube standard is 6m long, thereby allowing the scaffolding structure to be extended vertically every 6m and thereby reducing the number of joins or weak points.

All forms of proprietary system scaffolding have welded connection clusters or nodes (rosettes 14, fixed and captive cups 54, 56 and V-shaped sockets 58) positioned at around 500mm intervals along their length, many of which are not used. Using the universal coupler 10 allows the scaffolder to erect only at the preferred height; a height that can be determined by the conditions at site. This height can be varied to suit the building and may be staggered at different heights, and not limited to the 500mm intervals set by the proprietary system scaffolding.

The invention is not intended to be limited to the details of the embodiments described herein, which are described by way of example only. Various additions and alternations may be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, although particular embodiments refer to implementing the present invention with Kwikstage®, Cuplok®, Ringlock® and Allround® system scaffolding, this is in no way intended to be limiting as, in use, the present invention can be applied to any type of proprietary system scaffolding. It will be understood that features described in relation to any particular embodiment can be featured in combination with other embodiments.

Claims

1. A coupler for connecting a scaffold tube to a scaffolding component of a proprietary system scaffolding, comprising: a body portion having a proximal end adapted to engage with and project outward in radial manner from the scaffolding component and a distal end adapted to engage with the scaffold tube; and means for releasably securing the scaffold tube to the distal end of the coupler.

2. The coupler as claimed in claim 1, wherein the scaffold tube is a conventional 48.3mm tube and fitting scaffold tube.

3. The coupler as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the scaffold tube is formed in the precise dimensions defined by European Standard EN39.

4. The coupler as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the scaffold tube is formed from galvanised steel or aluminium.

5. The coupler as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the scaffolding component is a Ringlock® rosette having a generally flat configuration with a central opening and a plurality of apertures disposed around the periphery thereof, each of the apertures capable of engagement with the proximal end of the coupler.

6. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the scaffolding component is an Allround® rosette having a generally flat configuration with a central opening and a plurality of apertures disposed around the periphery thereof, each of the apertures capable of engagement with the proximal end of the coupler.

7. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the scaffolding component is a Kwikstage® connection node having a plurality of V-shaped sockets disposed around the periphery thereof, each of the sockets capable of engagement with the proximal end of the coupler.

8. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the scaffolding component is a Cuplok® connecter having a fixed lower cup and sliding upper cup capable of engagement with the proximal end of the coupler.

9. The coupler as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the scaffolding component is fixed at regular intervals to a vertical scaffold tube or standard of the proprietary system scaffolding.

10. The coupler as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the proprietary system scaffolding is selected from the group consisting, but not limited to, any one of the following: Kwikstage®, Cuplok®, Ringlock®, Allround® and variations thereof.

11. The coupler as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the body portion is elongate and rigid.

12. The coupler as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the body portion is formed having a unitary construction.

13. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7 and 9 to 12, wherein the proximal end of the body portion is V- or U-shaped and which defines an opening through which the scaffolding component can be received and engaged.

14. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7 or 9 to 13, wherein the proximal end of the body portion comprises a pair of fingers or projections.

15. The coupler as claimed in claim 14, wherein the opening is closed off by way of an engagement means passed through the pair of fingers and one of the plurality of apertures disposed around the periphery of the scaffolding component.

16. The coupler as claimed in claim 15, wherein the engagement means is a captive gravity pin or a fixed and complementary captive cup.

17. The coupler as claimed in claim 16, wherein the captive gravity pin further comprises welds or detents located generally at each end thereof.

18. The coupler as claimed in claims 16 or 17, wherein the captive gravity pin is slidably moveable inside a channel formed in the pair of fingers.

19. The coupler as claimed in claim 18, wherein the width of the channel formed in one of the pair of fingers is wider than the channel formed in the other one of the pair of fingers.

20. The coupler as claimed in claim 14, wherein each of the pair of fingers defines upper and lower surfaces in a plane generally parallel to the scaffolding component, the upper and lower surfaces being rounded or tapered to an apex at the proximal end of the coupler.

21. The coupler as claimed in claim 20, wherein each of the pair of fingers is generally wedge-shaped.

22. The coupler as claimed in claims 20 or 21, wherein the pair of fingers abut to a shoulder on the body portion and from which a generally cylindrical neck portion and a scaffold tube engaging stub extend at the distal end of the coupler.

23. The coupler as claimed in claim 22, wherein the scaffold tube engaging stub is dimensioned to receive the inner diameter of the scaffold tube.

24. The coupler as claimed in claim 23, wherein the diameter of the scaffold tube engaging stub is no greater than about 38.8mm.

25. The coupler as claimed in claims 23 or 24, wherein the diameter of the scaffold tube engaging stub is about 37.0mm to about 38.0mm.

26. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 23 to 25, wherein the length of the scaffold tube engaging stub which extends from the neck of the body portion to the distal end of the coupler is about 30.0mm to about 80.0mm.

27. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 23 to 26, wherein the scaffold tube engaging stub has a cylindrical shape.

28. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 23 to 27, wherein the scaffold tube engaging stub is formed as a tapered, truncated, chamfered and/or domed cylinder.

29. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 23 to 28, wherein the body portion further comprises a segmented collar portion which is used to secure the scaffold tube to the scaffold tube engaging stub.

30. The coupler as claimed in claim 29, further comprising a threaded fastener positioned in the segmented collar portion.

31. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 23 to 28, wherein the body portion further comprises a pair of diametrically opposed segmented collars extending from the neck of the coupler.

32. The coupler as claimed in claim 31, wherein the pair of segmented collars further comprise threaded holes which are adapted to receive diametrically opposed threaded fasteners.

33. The coupler as claimed in claim 31, wherein the pair of threaded fasteners being configured to provide a radial compressive force to secure the conventional scaffold tube around the distal end of the coupler when in use.

34. The coupler as claimed in claims 30 or 32, wherein the threaded fastener is selected from the group consisting, but not limited to, any one of the following: slotted head, Allen® head and hexagonal bolt.

35. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 1 to 7 or 9 to 34, wherein in use the scaffold tube extends in the same plane as the generally flat scaffolding component.

36. The coupler as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein in use the scaffold tube is used to form a horizontal component, ledger or transom of a scaffolding structure.

37. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 1 to 21, wherein the distal end of the coupler comprises a spigot or spindle.

38. The coupler as claimed in claim 37, wherein the spigot or spindle is free to rotate inside an aperture in a lugged open receptacle at the distal end of the coupler.

39. The coupler as claimed in claim 38, wherein the spigot or spindle is threaded and secured to the lugged open receptacle through the aperture using a threaded closure nut.

40. The coupler as claimed in claim 38, wherein the lugged open receptacle defining an internal bore being dimensioned to receive the outer diameter of the scaffold tube.

41. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 38 to 40, wherein the diameter of the internal bore is about 48.5mm to about 50.0mm.

42. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 38 to 41, wherein the length of the open receptacle is about 50.0mm to about 100.0mm.

43. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 38 to 42, wherein the scaffold tube is held in place via one or more threaded fasteners located in the side wall of the lugged open receptacle.

44. The coupler as claimed in claim 43, wherein a pair of diametrically opposed threaded fasteners are located in the side wall of the lugged open receptacle.

45. The coupler as claimed in claim 44, wherein the pair of threaded fasteners being configured to provide a radial compressive force to secure the conventional scaffold tube inside the distal end of the coupler when in use.

46. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 38 to 45, wherein rotational movement of the lugged open receptacle about the spigot or spindle enables the scaffold tube to connect to the scaffolding component at any angle.

47. The coupler as claimed in any of claims 37 to 46, wherein in use the scaffold tube is used to form a diagonal component or cross brace of a scaffolding structure.

48. The coupler as claimed in any of the preceding claims, wherein the coupler is formed from a welded construction and/or machined and/or pressed and/or cast and/or forged from a suitable metal material.

49. A scaffolding structure, comprising: a plurality of vertical scaffold standards of a proprietary system scaffolding, the vertical scaffold standards comprising a plurality of scaffolding connection components fixed at regular intervals thereto; a plurality of ledgers, transoms and/or cross braces formed from conventional 48.3mm tube and fitting scaffold tube coupled to each of the plurality of scaffolding connection components via a plurality of couplers each having a proximal end adapted to engage with and project outward in radial manner from the scaffolding connection component, and a distal end adapted to engage with the conventional 48.3mm tube and fitting scaffold tube.

50. A method of connecting a conventional scaffold tube between vertical scaffold standards of a proprietary system scaffolding, each of the vertical scaffold standards comprising a plurality of scaffolding connection components fixed at regular intervals thereto, the method comprising the steps of: securing one end of the conventional scaffold tube to the distal end of a first coupler; securing the other end of the conventional scaffold tube to the distal end of a second coupler; and engaging the proximal end of the first and second couplers between corresponding scaffolding connection components of the proprietary system scaffolding such that the proximal end of the first and second couplers project outward in radial manner from the scaffolding connection components.

51. A coupler or scaffolding structure as described herein with reference to Figures 1 to 9 of the accompanying drawings.

52. A method of connecting a conventional scaffold tube between vertical scaffold standards of a proprietary system scaffolding as hereinbefore described.