GB2616307A - A support frame assembly for mounting a working platform to a building structure - Google Patents

A support frame assembly for mounting a working platform to a building structure Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2616307A
GB2616307A GB2203031.6A GB202203031A GB2616307A GB 2616307 A GB2616307 A GB 2616307A GB 202203031 A GB202203031 A GB 202203031A GB 2616307 A GB2616307 A GB 2616307A
Authority
GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
frame members
building structure
members
mounting
support frame
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
GB2203031.6A
Other versions
GB202203031D0 (en
Inventor
Yiu Lee Chun
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Occupational Safety & Health Council
Original Assignee
Occupational Safety & Health Council
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Occupational Safety & Health Council filed Critical Occupational Safety & Health Council
Priority to GB2203031.6A priority Critical patent/GB2616307A/en
Publication of GB202203031D0 publication Critical patent/GB202203031D0/en
Priority to PCT/GB2023/050518 priority patent/WO2023166321A1/en
Publication of GB2616307A publication Critical patent/GB2616307A/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G3/00—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height
    • E04G3/18—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height supported by cantilevers or other provisions mounted in openings in the building, e.g. window openings
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L—DOMESTIC WASHING OR CLEANING; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47L3/00—Safety devices for use in window-cleaning
    • A47L3/02—Cages; Platforms
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G3/00—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height
    • E04G3/20—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height supported by walls
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G3/00—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height
    • E04G3/22—Scaffolds essentially supported by building constructions, e.g. adjustable in height supported by roofs or ceilings
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G5/00—Component parts or accessories for scaffolds
    • E04G5/06—Consoles; Brackets
    • E04G5/061—Consoles; Brackets specially adapted for attachment to scaffolds
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G5/00—Component parts or accessories for scaffolds
    • E04G5/08—Scaffold boards or planks
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G5/00—Component parts or accessories for scaffolds
    • E04G5/14—Railings
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G5/00—Component parts or accessories for scaffolds
    • E04G5/14—Railings
    • E04G5/145—Toe boards therefor
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G25/00—Shores or struts; Chocks
    • E04G25/04—Shores or struts; Chocks telescopic
    • E04G2025/045—Shores or struts; Chocks telescopic which telescoping action effected by a lever

Abstract

The support frame assembly 10 includes first and second frame members 12, 14 that are laterally spaced apart and are intended to be positioned substantially upright within the building structure, and third and fourth frame members 16, 18 are connected to the first and second frame members 12, 14, respectively, and arranged substantially perpendicularly to the first and second frame members. Third and fourth frame members extend through an opening of the building. Fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 connected to the third and fourth frame members 16, 18, respectively, and arranged perpendicularly to said third and fourth frame members, so as to be parallel to the first and second frame members. The fifth and sixth frame members are positioned outside of the building structure, in use, and are configured for mounting a working platform therebetween. The support frame assembly has a mounting arrangement 24, 36 connected to the first and second members to mount the support frame assembly to a surface within the building structure, in use.

Description

A Support Frame Assembly for Mounting a Working Platform to a Building Structure
FIELD
The present invention relates to a support frame assembly for mounting a working platform to a building structure, a building structure comprising the support frame assembly for mounting a working platform to the building structure, and a method of installing a support frame assembly onto a building structure for mounting a working platform to the building structure.
BACKGROUND
In order to access external walls of a building structure, for example to carry out repair, maintenance, alteration, and addition (RMAA) works, scaffolding is often used to provide a working platform. Traditional scaffolding is constructed from the ground level upwards to where access is needed. This traditional scaffold arrangement is very expensive, for example if the building structure is high, and the expense is often too great for when access to the outside of the building is only required for a short period of time. In order to overcome this, it has become conventional practice in some circumstances to erect temporary truss-out working platforms supported by metal brackets fixed on external walls. However, as it requires workers to follow the correct installation method and use fall prevention measures correctly, the installation method and working safety associated with this practice is highly unreliable. Moreover, it is highly desirable that temporary assemblies for conducting building repair/maintenance works are able to be installed and demountable rapidly so as to not to add unduly to the overall cycle time for the operation.
There thus exists a need for a support frame assembly which can be used for repair/maintenance work to external walls of buildings which addresses some of these problems.
The present teachings seek to overcome or at least mitigate one or more problems
associated with the prior art.
SUMMARY
A first aspect provides for a support frame assembly for mounting a working platform to a building structure, the support frame assembly comprising: first and second frame members that are laterally spaced apart and are intended to be positioned substantially upright within the building structure, in use; third and fourth frame members connected to the first and second frame members, respectively, the third and fourth frame members arranged substantially perpendicularly to the first and second frame members, respectively, for extending through an opening of the building, in use; fifth and sixth frame members connected to the third and fourth frame members, respectively, and arranged substantially perpendicularly to said third and fourth frame members, respectively, so as to be substantially parallel to the first and second frame members, respectively, wherein the fifth and sixth frame members are intended to be positioned outside of the building structure, in use, and are configured for mounting a working platform therebetween, wherein the support frame assembly comprises a mounting arrangement connected to the first and second frame members, said mounting arrangement being configured and arranged to mount the support frame assembly to a surface within the building structure, in use.
The provision of a support frame assembly including a pair of spaced apart U-Shaped support frames enables the assembly to have a first part positioned within the building, and a second part outside of the building for mounting a working platform thereto.
The provision of a mounting arrangement that does not require any tools to connect to the internal area of a building structure has been found to increase the speed at which the support frame assembly can be installed and uninstalled.
The mounting arrangement may comprise a first engagement member provided at a first end of each of the first and second frame members that is configured and arranged to engage a floor within the building structure, in use.
Engaging/mounting the assembly to a floor of the building structure has been found to facilitate installation of the assembly.
Each first engagement member may comprise a foot plate.
Each foot plate may be adjustable relative to the first end of the respective first and second frame members.
The mounting arrangement may comprise first and second elongate mounting members intended to be positioned within the building structure, in use, wherein the first and second elongate mounting members are arranged substantially parallel to the first and second frame members, respectively, for extending between and engaging a floor and a roof/ceiling of the building structure, in use.
The first, third, and fifth frame members may form a first U-shaped support frame. The second, fourth, and sixth frame members may form a second U-shaped support frame. The second U-shaped support frame may be laterally spaced apart from the first U-shaped support frame.
The first and second elongate mounting members may be removably connected to the first and second frame members, respectively, and/or are removably connected to the third and fourth frame members respectively.
This has been found to increase the speed at which the support frame assembly can be installed and uninstalled.
Each elongate mounting member may be extendable and retractable.
This arrangement enables the mounting members to be tension mounted between the floor and the upper surface of the building structure. Moreover, providing extendible/retractable mounting members enables the mounting members to engage the roof/ceiling and floor that are spaced apart by different amounts.
Each elongate mounting member may comprise a lever moveable between first and second positions to adjust the mounting member between extended and retracted positions.
Each mounting member may comprise first and second ends thereof each comprising a mounting plate configured to engage a floor and a roof/ceiling of the building structure.
The mounting arrangement may comprise a clamping arrangement provided on the first and/or second frame members configured and arranged to engage an interior surface of the building structure, in use.
Each of the fifth and sixth frame members may comprise an engagement member configured to engage an exterior face of the building structure, in use, and Each engagement member may comprise a contact plate configured and arranged to engage the exterior face of the building, in use, said contact plate comprising at least one aperture for receiving a fastener therethrough.
The first and second frame members may be removably connected to the third and fourth frame members, respectively.
This has been found to increase the speed at which the support frame assembly can be installed and uninstalled.
The third and fourth frame members may be removably connected to the fifth and sixth frame members, respectively.
This has been found to increase the speed at which the support frame assembly can be installed and uninstalled.
The support frame assembly may comprise one or more cross members extending IS between the first and second frame members.
The cross members enable a user to mount the working platform when the working platform is assembled onto the support frame assembly.
The support frame assembly may comprise a working platform connected to the fifth and sixth frame members and a guard-rail structure at least partially surrounding the working platform.
The guard-rail structure may be formed from a plurality of guard-rail structure modules.
According to a second aspect, there is provided a building structure comprising: a wall defining an opening; and a support frame assembly according to the first aspect, wherein the first and second frame members of the support frame assembly are positioned substantially upright within the building structure and the third and fourth frame members extend through the opening of the building structure, and wherein the support frame assembly is mounted to a surface within the building structure via the mounting arrangement.
According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of installing the support frame assembly to a building structure comprising a wall defining an opening, the method comprising the steps of: connecting first, third, and fifth frame members and second fourth, and sixth frame members to form a pair of U-shape support frames; arranging the first and second frame members to be laterally spaced apart substantially upright within the building structure; arranging the third and fourth frame members to extend through the opening of the building structure; arranging the fifth and sixth frame members to be outside of the building structure and substantially parallel to the first and second frame members; and mounting the support frame assembly to a surface within the building structure via the mounting arrangement.
The mounting arrangement may comprise a first engagement member provided at a first end of each of the first and second frame members. The step of mounting the first and second frame members substantially upright within the building structure may comprise engaging a floor within the building structure with the first engagement members.
The mounting arrangement may comprise first and second elongate mounting members. The step of mounting the support frame assembly to a surface within the building structure may comprise installing the first and second elongate mounting members within the building structure to extend between and engage a floor and a roof/ceiling of the building structure, and connecting the first and second elongate mounting members to the first and second frame members, respectively.
The mounting arrangement may comprise a clamping arrangement provided on the first and/or second frame members configured and arranged to engage an interior surface of the building structure. The step of mounting the support frame assembly to a surface within the building structure may comprise engaging an interior surface of the building structure with the or each clamping arrangement.
Each of the fifth and sixth frame members may comprise an engagement member. The method may comprise engaging an exterior face of the building structure with the engagement members of the fifth and sixth frame members.
Each engagement member may comprise a contact plate with one or more apertures therein for receiving a fastener therethrough. The method may comprise fastening the contact plate to the exterior face of the building.
The method may comprise, after the contact plates have been fastened to the exterior face of the building, either: disconnecting the mounting arrangement; and/or disconnecting the third and fourth frame members from the fifth and sixth frame members, respectively.
The method may comprise mounting a working platform to the fifth and sixth frame members.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a cross sectional schematic view through of a support frame assembly mounted to a wall of a building structure according to a first embodiment; Figure 2 is a perspective view of a part of the support frame assembly of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a perspective view of the support frame assembly of Figure 1; Figure 4 is a cross sectional schematic view of a support frame assembly mounted to a wall of a building structure according to a second embodiment; Figure 5 is a perspective view of a part of the support frame assembly of Figure 4; and Figure 6 is a perspective view of a working platform assembly of a support frame assembly.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT(S)
Referring first to Figures 1 to 3, a first embodiment of a support frame assembly is illustrated and is indicated generally at 10. It will be appreciated that the support frame assembly 10 is configured for mounted to a building structure 11, in use.
The support frame assembly 10 includes first 12 and second 14 frame members intended to be positioned substantially upright within the building structure, in use. The first 12 and second 14 frame members are parallel to each other and are laterally spaced apart. The support frame assembly 10 includes a mounting arrangement connected to the first 12 and second 14 frame members that is configured and arranged to mount the support frame assembly 10 to a surface within the building structure, in use.
The mounting arrangement comprises a first engagement member 36 provided at a first end of each of the first and second frame members 12, 14. The first engagement members 36 are configured and arranged to engage a floor within the building structure, in use. The first engagement members 36 is provided in the form of a foot plate 36. The foot plate 36 are adjustable relative to the respective first and second frame members 12, 14 so that it can engage the floor of the building unit. It will be appreciated that the foot plates 36 attached to the first and second frame members 12, 14 via a threaded arm so as to be adjustable relative to the first and second frame members 12, 14. Although it will be appreciated that the foot plates 36 may be adjusted via any other suitable adjustment arrangement.
The first and second frame members 12, 14 are arranged substantially upright within the building structure with the foot plates 36 engaging the floor within the building structure.
Third 16 and fourth 18 frame members are connected to the first 12 and second 14 frame members, respectively. The third 16 and fourth 18 frame members are arranged substantially perpendicularly to the first 12 and second 14 frame members, respectively. In the present arrangement, the first 12 and third 16 frame members and the second 14 and fourth 18 frame members, respectively, are provided as a single component. Put another way, the first 12 and third 16 frame members and the second 14 and fourth 18 frame members, respectively, each form a substantially L-shaped frame member. Arranging the third 16 and fourth 18 frame members perpendicularly to the first 12 and second 14 frame members enables them to extend through an opening, e.g. an open window, of a building structure, when the first 12 and second 14 frame members are arranged upright within the building structure.
The support frame assembly 10 includes fifth 20 and sixth 22 frame members connected to the third 16 and fourth 18 frame members, respectively. The fifth 20 and sixth 22 frame members are arranged substantially perpendicularly to the third 16 and fourth 18 frame members, respectively, and to be substantially parallel to the first 12 and second 14 frame members, respectively. The fifth 20 and sixth 22 frame members are intended to be positioned outside of the building structure, in use. The fifth 20 and sixth 22 frame members are configured for mounting a working platform therebetween, as will be discussed in more detail below.
The arrangement of the first 12, third 16 and fifth 20 frame members forms a first U-shaped support frame. The arrangement of the second 14, fourth 18, and sixth frame members form a second U-shaped support frame. It will be appreciated that the first and second U-shaped support frames are laterally spaced apart and are intended to extend through an opening in a building structure, in use. The first and second frame members 12, 14 may be removably connected to the third and fourth frame members 16, 18, respectively. The third and fourth frame members 16, 18 may be removably connected to the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22, respectively.
In the illustrated arrangement, a second end of the first and second frame members 12, 14 opposite to the first end, is connected to a respective one of the third and fourth frame members 16, 18. A first end of each of the third and fourth frame members 16, 18 is connected to a respective one of the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22. The first and second frame members 12, 14 are arranged substantially upright within the building structure with the foot plates 36 engaging the floor within the building structure. The third and fourth frame members 16, 18 are arranged to extend substantially perpendicular to the first and second frame members 12, 14 through a fenestration of the building. The fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 are arranged to extend from, and substantially perpendicular to, the third and fourth frame members 16, 18 on the exterior of the building.
The mounting arrangement is provided with a clamping arrangement 24 provided on the first and second frame members 12, 14. The clamping arrangement is configured and arranged to engage an interior wall surface of the building structure, in use. In some arrangements, it will be appreciated that only one of the first and second frame members 12, 14 may include a clamping arrangement 24.
The clamping arrangements 24 of each of the first and second frame members 12, 14 includes a first clamp 24A on each of the of the first and second frame members 12, 14. Each clamping arrangement 24 may be provided with a second clamp 24B. The second clamp 24B may be spaced apart from the first clamp 24A along a length of the respective one of the first and second frame members 12,14. In some arrangements, it will be appreciated that only a single clamp may be provided. Each clamp 24A, 24B of the first and second frame members 12,14 includes a contact plate 32. The contact plates 32 are circular but may be any suitable shape. The contact plates are arranged at a distal end of a threaded arm 34 so as to be moveable towards and away from a wall of the building structure, in use. This adjustment enables the contact plates 32 of the first and second frame members 12, 14 to be fastened to the interior face of the building structure. The threaded arms 34 of the clamps 24A, 24B are received in a threaded bore of the respective one of the first and second frame members 12, 14 such that the position of the threaded arm 34 may be adjusted by rotating the arm 34.
Each of the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 is provided with an engagement member 26 configured to engage an exterior face of the building structure, in use.
In the arrangement shown, the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 are provided with first and second engagement members 26A, 26B. The first and second engagement members 26A, 26B are spaced apart along the length of the respective one of the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22. In alternative arrangements, only a single engagement member 26 may be provided on each of the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22. Each engagement member 26 includes a contact plate 28. The contact plates 28 are rectangular but may be any suitable shape. In the arrangement shown, the contact plates 28 are arranged on brackets 30, but in alternative arrangements the engagement members may be provided as clamps similar to the clamps 24 described above. One or both of the contact plates 28 may comprise one or more apertures for receiving a fastener therethrough. This enables the contact plates 28 of the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 to be fastened, for example bolted, to the exterior face of the building structure.
The clamping arrangements 24 of the first and second frame members 12, 14 are engaged with the interior face of the building below the opening of the building unit.
The engagement members 26 of each of the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 are engaged with the exterior face of the face of the building below the opening of the building unit. Put another way, the clamping arrangement 24 and the engagement members 26 are arranged to engage opposing sides of a wall of the building unit (e.g. the wall of the building unit is clamped therebetween).
The connection of the third and fourth frame members 16, 18 to the other frame members, means that the third and fourth frame members 16, 18 are suspended above the sill of the fenestration. In this way, the support assembly of the invention avoids placing too much load on the sill.
The support frame assembly 10 may be provided with one or more cross members, e.g. rungs, 38 which extend between the first and second frame members 12, 14. The rungs 38 allow a worker to mount the support assembly, in particular to mount the working platform on the exterior of the building to conduct RMAA works to the building structure.
A method of installing the support frame assembly on a building structure will now be described.
The installer connects the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth frame members 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 together to form the U-shaped support frames. The third and fourth frame members 16,18 are connected perpendicularly to the first and second frame members 12, 14, respectively, at second ends of the first and second frame members 12, 14 opposite the first ends. It will be appreciated that the first and third 12, 16 frame members and the second 14 and fourth 18 frame members may be integrally formed (e.g. permanently connected). The fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 are then connected perpendicularly to the third and fourth frame members 16, 18, respectively.
The installer positions the U-shaped support frames within a building structure such that the first and second frame members 12, 14 are arranged inside the building structure, the third and fourth frame members 16, 18 extend through an opening of the building structure, and the fifth and sixth frame members 20,22 are arranged outside the building structure. It will be appreciated that the opening of the building structure may be a fenestration defining a lower edge, e.g. a sill, thereof. The installer positions the U-shaped support frames such that the third and further frame members 16, 18 are positioned above (i.e. spaced apart from) the lower edge, e.g. sill, of the opening.
The installer arranges the contact plates 28 of the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 to engage with the exterior face of the building. The first and second frame members 12,14 are arranged substantially upright within the building structure with the foot plates 36 at the first ends of said first and second frame members 12,14 engaging the floor within the building structure. If required, the installer adjusts the position of the foot plates 36 to engage the floor of the building structure. The installer adjusts clamps 24, e.g. via the threaded arms 34, of the first and second frame members 12,14 to engage the interior face of the building below the sill. Engagement of the interior and exterior wall of the building structure via the clamps 24 and the contact plates 28 enables the support frame assembly 10 to be clamped onto a wall of the building unit. A working platform can then be mounted onto the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22.
Depending on the type of RMAA works to be conducted, the installer can choose to remove the first, second, third and fourth frame members 12, 14, 16, 18. For example, these frame members must be removed for window changing works to be conducted successfully. In such case, the installer must fasten the contact plates 28 to the exterior face of the building, and then disconnect the first, second, third and fourth frame members 12, 14, 16, 18 from the support frame assembly 10. In this way, the support frame assembly is secured to the building structure by the fasteners extending through the contact plates 28 to support the load of the assembly 10 and any workers using the assembly. Alternatively, the first, second, third and fourth frame members 12, 14, 16, 18 can be left in place throughout the RMAA works.
Referring to Figures 4 and 5, a second embodiment of the support frame assembly will now be described.
In this arrangement, the mounting arrangement includes first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42. The first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 are intended to be positioned within the building structure, in use. The first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 are arranged substantially parallel to the first and second frame members 12, 14, respectively, for extending between and engaging a floor and a roof/ceiling of the building structure, in use.
The first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 are extendable. Put another way, the first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 are extendible and retractable. This enables the mounting members to engage and release the roof/ceiling within the building structure. Each of the first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 comprises an inner member which telescopes within an outer member. A lever mechanism 45 is provided on each elongate mounting member 40, 42. The lever 45 is moveable between first and second positions to adjust the mounting member 40, 42 between extended and retracted positions to adjust the length of the mounting member 40, 42. The skilled person will understand that a variety of alternative mechanisms could be used to extend and retract the elongate mounting members 40, 42.
The first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 are provided with a first mounting member 50, e.g. a mounting plate, at a first end thereof and a second mounting member 52, e.g. a mounting plate, at a second end thereof. This enables the mounting members 40, 42 to be engage and be secured between the floor and the roof/ceiling within the building structure.
The first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 are removably connected to the first and second frame members 12, 14, respectively, and are removably connected to the third and fourth frame members 16, 18, respectively. In some arrangements, the first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 may only be connected to the first and second frame members 12, 14 or the third and fourth frame members 16, 18.
The support frame assembly includes a bracing arrangement to connect the first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 to the frame members. The bracing arrangement includes first and second bracing members 46, 48 to connect the first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 to the frame members. The first and second bracing arrangement include respective first and second bracing members 46,48.
When installed, the first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 are arranged to be parallel and aligned with the first and second frame members 12, 14, respectively. The first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 are connected to the third and fourth frame members 16, 18. The first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 are arranged perpendicularly to the third and fourth frame members 16, 18. The first and second mounting members extend upright between the floor and the roof/ceiling within the building. The mounting plates 50 at the first ends of the first and second mounting members 40, 42 are engaged with the floor and the mounting plates 52 of the second ends of the first and second mounting members 40, 42 are engaged with the roof/ceiling. The first bracing member 46 is connected between the first frame member 12 and the first elongate mounting member 40. The second bracing member 48 is connected between the second frame member 14 and the second elongate mounting member 42. A first bracing member 46 of each of the first and second bracing arrangements extends between the respective elongate mounting member and frame member substantially perpendicular to said frame member and mounting member. A second bracing member 48 of each of the first and second bracing arrangements extends diagonally between the first bracing member 46 and the respective one of the third and fourth frame members 16, 18. The mounting plates 50, 52 are engage the roof/ceiling and the floor of the building structure under tension to engage the building structure.
The second embodiment enables the supporting frame assembly to be installed to the building structure when the interior face of the building below the sill is not suitable for applying the clamping arrangements 24 of the first embodiment, e.g. the wall below the sill does not have sufficient strength to support the total weight of the supporting frame assembly, the working platform and the worker(s) standing on it. Although in some arrangements, the second embodiment may also include the mounting arrangement may also include the clamping arrangement discussed with reference to Figures 1 to 3.
In some arrangements, first and second locating components may be connected to the support frame assembly 10. The first locating component may be provided as a frame, e.g. a rectangular frame, releasably connected between the first and second bracing arrangements. The second locating component may be provided by a platform mounted between the third and fourth frame members 16, 18. The locating components are configured to enable correct positioning of the first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42. The second locating component also enable a worker to mount the support assembly, similar to the rungs 48 of the second embodiment.
Referring now to Figures 4 and 5, a method of installing the second embodiment of the support frame assembly on a building structure will be described.
The installer arranges the first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 with the mounting plates 50 at the first ends of said mounting members engaging the floor within the building and such that the first and second mounting members 40, 42 extend upright within the building, parallel and aligned with the first and second frame members 12, 14, respectively. The installer uses the lever mechanisms 45 to extend each of the first and second elongate mounting members 40, 42 to bring the mounting plates 52 at the second ends of the elongate mounting members 40, 42 into engagement with the roof/ceiling within the building structure.
The installer connects the first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth frame members 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 together to form the U-shaped support frames. The third and fourth frame members 16,18 are connected perpendicularly to the first and second frame members 12,14, respectively, at second ends of the first and second frame members 12,14 opposite the first ends. It will be appreciated that the first and third 12, 16 frame members and the second 14 and fourth 18 frame members may be integrally formed. The fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 are then connected perpendicularly to the third and fourth frame members 16, 18, respectively.
The installer positions the U-shaped support frames within a building structure such that the first and second frame members 12, 14 are arranged inside the building structure, the third and fourth frame members 16, 18 extend through an opening of the building structure, and the fifth and sixth frame members 20,22 are arranged outside the building structure. It will be appreciated that the opening of the building structure may be a fenestration defining a lower edge, e.g. a sill, thereof. The installer positions the U-shaped support frames such that the third and further frame members 16, 18 are positioned above (i.e. spaced apart from) the lower edge, e.g. sill, of the opening.
The installer arranges the contact plates 28 of the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 to engage with the exterior face of the building. The first and second frame members 12, 14 are arranged substantially upright within the building structure with the foot plates 36 at the first ends of said first and second frame members 12,14 engaging the floor within the building structure. If required, the installer adjusts the position of the foot plates 36 to engage the floor of the building structure.
The installer arranges the first and second frame members 12, 14 substantially upright within the building structure with the foot plates 36 at the first ends of said first and second frame members 12, 14 engaging the floor within the building structure.
The installer connects the bracing arrangements between the first elongate mounting member 40 and the first frame member 12 on the one hand and between the second elongate mounting member 42 and the second frame member 14 on the other hand. The fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22 are then connected to the third and fourth frame members 16, 18, respectively, and are arranged to extend substantially perpendicular to said third and fourth frame members 16, 18 on the exterior of the building. A working platform can then be mounted onto the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22.
Depending on the type of RMAA works to be conducted, the installer can choose to remove the first and second mounting members 40, 42, the first, second, third and fourth frame members 12, 14, 16, 18, and the bracing arrangements. For example, the frame members must be removed for window changing works to be conducted successfully. In such case, the installer must fastens the rectangular contact plates 28 by anchor bolts to the exterior face of the building, and then disconnect the first and second mounting members 40, 42, the first, second, third and fourth frame members 12, 14, 16, 18, and the bracing arrangements from the support frame assembly and simply rely on the engagement of the rectangular contact plates 28 to support the load of the assembly and any workers using the assembly. Alternatively, the first and second mounting members 40, 42, the first, second, third and fourth frame members 12, 14, 16, 18, and the bracing arrangements can be left in place throughout the RMAA works.
Referring now to Figure 6, a working platform assembly 58 is illustrated. It will be appreciated that the working platform assembly 58 may be connected to the fifth and sixth frame members of any of the previously discussed support frame assemblies. The working platform assembly 58 comprises a working platform 60 and a guard-rail structure 61. The working platform assembly 58 may be provided with a floor member 68. The floor member 68 is seated on the working platform 60. The floor member 68 includes a raised perimeter edge 69, defining a toe guard, extending around the floor member 68.
The guard-rail structure is formed of a plurality of guard-rail structure modules 62 comprising two first side guard-rail structure modules 62A, four mid guard-rail structure modules 62B, and two second side guard-rail structure modules 62C. The working platform assembly defines first and second opposing sides and proximal and distal faces extending perpendicular to the first and second sides. Each guardrail structure module 62A,62B,62C comprises first and second guard-rail members 64 intended to be positioned substantially upright on the working platform, Each guard-rail structure module 62A,62B,62C comprises third and fourth guard-rail members 66 arranged in spaced relationship to extend perpendicular to the first and second guard-rail members 64 and connected to the first and second guardrail members 64. The third and fourth guard-rail members 66 of the side guard-rail modules 62A,62C are configured to engage the exterior face of the building adjacent the sides of the working platform assembly.
To assemble the working platform, an installer mounts the guard-rail modules 62A,62B,62C upright onto the working platform. When assembled, the third guardrail members 64 of the left, right and mid guard-rail modules abut to form a first contiguous guard rail which extends around the first side, the distal face and the second side of the working platform assembly. Similarly, the fourth guard-rail members 66 abut to form a second contiguous guard-rail rail which extends around the first side, the distal face and the second side of the working platform assembly. The connection between the guard-rail modules and the platform is done by "no-tool" connection design, i.e. the modules can be connected together or being inserted into the platform without any tool. This design facilitates rapid installation and demounting of the assembly.
The working platform assembly 58 includes a pair of platform brackets 70. Each platform bracket 70 connects to a respective one of the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22, and the platform brackets 70 are configured to support the The working platform assembly 58 may be provided with one or more cross members, e.g. rungs, 72 which extend between the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22. The cross members 72 may be provided as a separate module, or may be mounted individually between the fifth and sixth frame members 20, 22. The cross members 72 allow a worker to enter and exit the working platform assembly 58.
It will be understood that the components shown in any of the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and, like parts shown in several drawings are designated the same reference numerals. It will be further understood that features from any of the embodiments may be combined with alternative described embodiments, even if such a combination is not explicitly recited hereinbefore but would be understood to be technically feasible by the person skilled in the art. The invention is not limited to the embodiments hereinbefore described which may be varied in both construction and detail within the scope of the appended claims.
Although the teachings have been described above with reference to one or more preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (25)

  1. Claims 1. A support frame assembly for mounting a working platform to a building structure, the support frame assembly comprising: first and second frame members that are laterally spaced apart and are intended to be positioned substantially upright within the building structure, in use; third and fourth frame members connected to the first and second frame members, respectively, the third and fourth frame members arranged substantially perpendicularly to the first and second frame members, respectively, for extending through an opening of the building, in use; fifth and sixth frame members connected to the third and fourth frame members, respectively, and arranged substantially perpendicularly to said third and fourth frame members, respectively, so as to be substantially parallel to the first and second frame members, respectively, wherein the fifth and sixth frame members are intended to be positioned outside of the building structure, in use, and are configured for mounting a working platform therebetween, wherein the support frame assembly comprises a mounting arrangement connected to the first and second frame members, said mounting arrangement being configured and arranged to mount the support frame assembly to a surface within the building structure, in use.
  2. 2. A support frame assembly according to claim 1, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a first engagement member provided at a first end of each of the first and second frame members that is configured and arranged to engage a floor within the building structure, in use.
  3. 3. A support frame assembly according to claim 2, wherein each first engagement member comprises a foot plate, optionally wherein each foot plate is adjustable relative to the first end of the respective first and second frame members.
  4. 4. A support frame assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises first and second elongate mounting members intended to be positioned within the building structure, in use, wherein the first and second elongate mounting members are arranged substantially parallel to the first and second frame members, respectively, for extending between and engaging a floor and a roof/ceiling of the building structure, in use.
  5. 5. A support frame assembly according to claim 4, wherein the first and second elongate mounting members are removably connected to the first and second frame members, respectively, and/or are removably connected to the third and fourth frame members respectively.
  6. 6. A support frame assembly according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein each elongate mounting member is extendable and retractable.
  7. 7. A support frame assembly according to claim 6, wherein each elongate mounting member comprises a lever moveable between first and second positions to adjust the mounting member between extended and retracted positions.
  8. 8. A support frame assembly according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein each mounting member comprises first and second ends thereof each comprising a mounting plate configured to engage a floor and a roof/ceiling of the building structure.
  9. 9. A support frame assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a clamping arrangement provided on the first and/or second frame members configured and arranged to engage an interior surface of the building structure, in use.
  10. 10.A support frame assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the fifth and sixth frame members comprises an engagement member configured to engage an exterior face of the building structure, in use, and
  11. 11.A support frame assembly according to claim 10, wherein each engagement member comprises a contact plate configured and arranged to engage the exterior face of the building, in use, said contact plate comprising at least one aperture for receiving a fastener therethrough.
  12. 12.A support frame assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first, third, and fifth frame members form a first U-shaped support frame, and the second, fourth, and sixth frame members form a second U-shaped support frame laterally spaced apart from the first U-shaped support frame.
  13. 13.A support frame assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the third and fourth frame members are removably connected to the fifth and sixth frame members, respectively.
  14. 14.A support frame assembly according to any preceding claim, comprising one or more cross members extending between the first and second frame members.
  15. 15.A support frame assembly according to any preceding claim, comprising a working platform connected to the fifth and sixth frame members and a guard-rail structure at least partially surrounding the working platform.
  16. 16.A support frame assembly according to claim 15, wherein the guard-rail structure is formed from a plurality of guard-rail structure modules.
  17. 17.A building structure comprising: a wall defining an opening; and a support frame assembly according to any preceding claim, wherein the first and second frame members of the support frame assembly are positioned substantially upright within the building structure, the third and fourth frame members extend through the opening of the building structure, and the fifth and sixth frame members are positioned outside of the building structure, and wherein the support frame assembly is mounted to a surface within the building structure via the mounting arrangement.
  18. 18.A method of installing the support frame assembly to a building structure comprising a wall defining an opening, the method comprising the steps of: connecting first, third, and fifth frame members and second fourth, and sixth frame members to form a pair of U-shape support frames; arranging the first and second frame members substantially upright within the building structure; arranging the third and fourth frame members to extend through an opening of the building structure; arranging the fifth and sixth frame members to be outside of the building structure and substantially parallel to the first and second frame members; and mounting the support frame assembly to a surface within the building structure via the mounting arrangement.
  19. 19.A method according to claim 18, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a first engagement member provided at a first end of each of the first and second frame members, and the step of mounting the first and second frame members substantially upright within the building structure comprises engaging a floor within the building structure with the first engagement members.
  20. 20.A method according to claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises first and second elongate mounting members, and mounting the support frame assembly to a surface within the building structure comprises installing the first and second elongate mounting members within the building structure to extend between and engage a floor and a roof/ceiling of the building structure, and connecting the first and second elongate mounting members to the first and second frame members, respectively.
  21. 21.A method according to any of claims 18 to 20, wherein the mounting arrangement comprises a clamping arrangement provided on the first and/or second frame members configured and arranged to engage an interior surface of the building structure, and mounting the support frame assembly to a surface within the building structure comprises engaging an interior surface of the building structure with the or each clamping arrangement.
  22. 22.A method according to any of claims 18 to 22, wherein each of the fifth and sixth frame members comprises an engagement member, and the method comprises engaging an exterior face of the building structure with the engagement members of the fifth and sixth frame members.
  23. 23.A method according to claim 22, wherein each engagement member comprises a contact plate with one or more apertures therein for receiving a fastener therethrough, and the method comprises fastening the contact plate to the exterior face of the building.
  24. 24.A method according to claim 23, comprising, after the contact plates have been fastened to the exterior face of the building, either: disconnecting the mounting arrangement; and/or disconnecting the third and fourth frame members from the fifth and sixth frame members, respectively.
  25. 25.A method according to any of claims 18 to 24, comprising mounting a working platform to the fifth and sixth frame members.
GB2203031.6A 2022-03-04 2022-03-04 A support frame assembly for mounting a working platform to a building structure Pending GB2616307A (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2203031.6A GB2616307A (en) 2022-03-04 2022-03-04 A support frame assembly for mounting a working platform to a building structure
PCT/GB2023/050518 WO2023166321A1 (en) 2022-03-04 2023-03-06 A support frame assembly for mounting a working platform to a building structure

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB2203031.6A GB2616307A (en) 2022-03-04 2022-03-04 A support frame assembly for mounting a working platform to a building structure

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GB202203031D0 GB202203031D0 (en) 2022-04-20
GB2616307A true GB2616307A (en) 2023-09-06

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WO (1) WO2023166321A1 (en)

Citations (8)

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FR959745A (en) * 1950-04-04
GB2093107A (en) * 1981-02-17 1982-08-25 Keyes John Joseph Window scaffolding
BE898673A (en) * 1984-01-12 1984-05-02 Heindrichs Jean Tubular building scaffolding system - comprises external platform supported by structure which lodges between floor and ceiling
JPH0616600A (en) * 1991-07-12 1994-01-25 Ube Ind Ltd Production of phenoxyethylamine
CN101025045A (en) * 2006-02-22 2007-08-29 香港理工大学 Quick distachable platform
WO2008077202A1 (en) * 2006-12-27 2008-07-03 Zoran Dujakovic Mobile scaffold for working at heights
EP2246288A1 (en) * 2009-04-06 2010-11-03 Ivar Ole Wik Device for transporting goods, and use thereof
JP2013167083A (en) * 2012-02-15 2013-08-29 Daiwa House Industry Co Ltd Window scaffold

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2142888B1 (en) * 1971-06-25 1973-06-29 Radisson Georges
JPH0616600U (en) * 1992-07-31 1994-03-04 文化シヤッター株式会社 Temporary scaffolding for construction
CN103276886B (en) * 2013-06-25 2015-06-10 北京金港建设股份有限公司 Overhanging frame at position of high-rise building sloping roof outer eave window and construction method thereof

Patent Citations (8)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR959745A (en) * 1950-04-04
GB2093107A (en) * 1981-02-17 1982-08-25 Keyes John Joseph Window scaffolding
BE898673A (en) * 1984-01-12 1984-05-02 Heindrichs Jean Tubular building scaffolding system - comprises external platform supported by structure which lodges between floor and ceiling
JPH0616600A (en) * 1991-07-12 1994-01-25 Ube Ind Ltd Production of phenoxyethylamine
CN101025045A (en) * 2006-02-22 2007-08-29 香港理工大学 Quick distachable platform
WO2008077202A1 (en) * 2006-12-27 2008-07-03 Zoran Dujakovic Mobile scaffold for working at heights
EP2246288A1 (en) * 2009-04-06 2010-11-03 Ivar Ole Wik Device for transporting goods, and use thereof
JP2013167083A (en) * 2012-02-15 2013-08-29 Daiwa House Industry Co Ltd Window scaffold

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GB202203031D0 (en) 2022-04-20
WO2023166321A1 (en) 2023-09-07

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