SE539880C2

SE539880C2 - A device and a system for supplying material to an application site and use of such a device and system

Info

Publication number: SE539880C2
Application number: SE1550136A
Authority: SE
Inventors: Pühringer Tomas; B Lundberg Jan; Hjelm Marko; Anderberg Anders; Kaasa Sturla
Original assignee: Saint-Gobain Weber
Priority date: 2015-02-06
Filing date: 2015-02-06
Publication date: 2018-01-02
Also published as: RU2017128528A3; EP3253497A1; SE1550136A1; EP3253497B1; BR112017015402A2; WO2016125012A1; CN107407099A; DK3253497T3; RU2705078C2; RU2017128528A

Abstract

A device (10) for supplying a hardening and pumpable or blowable building material to a material application site, comprising a hose (11) for conducting said material from a material supply to an operator (13) manually distributing said material on the application site by means of the device (10). The device (10) comprises a load distribution support (12) and a connector (14). The load distribution support (12) is connectable to the operator (13) and comprises one or more connecting devices (15). The connector (14) is connected to the hose (11) and is connectable to the one or more connecting devices (15) of the load distribution support (12) to form an articulated connection between the support (12) and the hose (11), so that the hose (11) is supported on the operator (13) through the articulated connection when the device (10) is operated by the operator (13) to distribute said material on the application site. The invention also concerns a system and a use of such a device and system.

Description

The invention relates to a device for supplying a hardening and pump-able or blowable or sprayable building material to a material application site.This type of device is, for example, used for supplying a moist, wet, liquid,semi-liquid or paste material to an application site or a surface, such as afloor, a roof or a wall structure, wherein the material hardens to form a solidsurface or coating. A device according to the invention is useful for flooring,wherein a flooring material, such as a cementitious flooring material, anhy-drite flooring material or similar, is supplied to a floor structure. One commontype of flooring materials of this type is screed, underlayment, overlaymentand other floor levelling materials. Such devices can also be used for supply-ing façade materials, such as rendering materials, and other types of materi-als, such as plaster, resin, etc. to a wall structure or other types of structures.The invention also relates to a system for supplying a hardening and pumpa-ble or blowable building material to a material application site. The inventionalso relates to the use of such a device and the use of such a system.

PRIOR ART Flooring material, such as screed, is generally provided by means of atruck containing said flooring material. The ﬂooring material is supplied fromthe truck to an application site through a hose by pumping. The pump is, forexample, arranged on the truck. The hose is connected to a material supplyof said truck and extends to the application site, such as into a building struc-ture. According to the prior art the hose is handled manually by an operatorto distribute the ﬂooring material, wherein the operator carries the hose andpositions a free end of the hose at the desired application site. Generally, thehose is handled manually by a first operator and a second operator, whereinthe first operator handles an outlet end of the hose for application of the floor- ing material at the desired position, and wherein the second operator lifts and 2 moves the hose in suitable positions between the outlet and the truck to fa-cilitate for the first operator to position the outlet end of the hose at the de- sired position.

One problem with prior art systems for supplying a flooring material toa floor structure is that the working conditions are adverse. The operators aresubject to heavy loads during long periods of time. Hence, there is a need forimprovement of the working conditions for the operators during supply ofheavy pumpable or blowable or sprayable materials for flooring or render ap- plications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION As a result of extensive research it has been found that the workingposture of a flooring operator applying flooring material on an application siteaccording to the prior art is adverse, wherein the operator is subject to in-creased risk for musculoskeletal disorders, particularly in the neck and thelower back. When flooring operations are performed by a first operator han-dling an outlet end of a hose for supplying the flooring material, and a secondoperator positioning a middle portion of the hose according to the prior art,the first operator may be subject to increased risk of disorders in the neckand lower back due to forward bending in combination with heavy loads dur-ing long periods oftime, wherein the second operator may be subject to in-creased risk of disorders in the neck, lower back and shoulders due to repeti- tive lifting, pulling and carrying of the hose.

An object of the invention is to avoid the above mentioned problem ofthe prior art and provide a device and a system for supplying a hardeningand pumpable or blowable or sprayable building material to a material appli-cation site which result in improved working conditions and reduces the riskof musculoskeletal disorders for at least one of the operators. Building mate-rials of this type are generally heavy and often requires a heavy duty hose tobe conducted a substantial distance by pumping or blowing. Hence, thecombination of hose and material is heavy and cumbersome for manual han- dling according to the prior art. 3 The present invention relates to a device for supplying a hardeningand pumpable or blowable or sprayable building material to a material appli-cation site, comprising a hose for conducting said material from a materialsupply to an operator manually distributing said material on the applicationsite by means of the device, wherein the device comprises a load distributionsupport and a connector, wherein the load distribution support is connectableto the operator and comprises one or more connecting devices, character-ised in that the connector is connected to the hose and is connectable to theone or more connecting devices of the load distribution support to form anarticulated connection between the support and the hose, so that the hose issupported on the operator through the articulated connection when the de-vice is operated by the operator to distribute said material on the applicationsite, and the device comprises a flexible tube connected to the hose, whereinthe hose is arranged between the material supply and the flexible tube, andwherein the flexible tube is more flexible than the hose. The device accordingto the invention results in a favourable load distribution during operations,such as flooring operations with flooring materials in the form of screed, ce-mentitious flooring materials, anhydrite ﬂooring materials and similar, andimproved working conditions for the operators.

The load distribution support can comprise a waist belt and optionallyone or two shoulder straps to form a harness. Such a load distribution sup-port can quickly and easily be connected to the operator and distributes the load efficiently to the hip and shoulders of the operator.

The device comprises a flexible tube connected to the hose. The hosecan be a heavy duty hose adapted for transportation of cementitious materi-als, wherein the hose is quite rigid and heavy and is not easily bent or han-dled manually by the operator. The flexible tube can more easily be bent andcarried over the shoulder of the operator than the hose. Further, the flexibletube can facilitate distribution of the material as it more easily than the hosecan be bent in the desired direction. The flexible tube can be lighter and moreflexible than the hose. Hence, the flexible tube results in a device which iseasier and lighter to handle for the operator, which further reduces the risksof musculoskeletal disorders for the operator. 4 The flexible tube can be connected to a rigid tube to be gripped andhandled by the operator, wherein the flexible tube is arranged between thehose and the rigid tube. The rigid tube can be lighter than the hose. Hence,the rigid tube forms a manoeuverable part of the device, which can be di-rected in different directions due to the flexible tube.

The rigid tube can be connected to a foldable tubing, such as a softrubber tubing, to be manually folded by the operator to more easily preventmaterial from dripping from the device, e.g. when a pump for pumping thematerial or a compressor for blowing the material has been turned off and thedevice is to be moved to another position or location. The foldable tubing canbe more flexible than the hose and the flexible tube, wherein the foldable tub-ing is easier to fold manually than the hose and the flexible tube. Hence, un-desired drops of the hardening material on a floor structure can more easily be avoided.

The connecting device can be arranged on a back part of the load dis-tribution support, such as on the back part of the waist belt or on the backpart of a harness. The connecting device can be arranged in a lower centralpart of such a harness. Hence, the hose can be connected to the back of theload distribution support, wherein the flexible tube can be arranged over theshoulder of the operator while the rigid tube is handled in front of the operatorto efficiently distribute the load and provide a favourable working posture forflooring operations. Alternatively, the connecting device can be arranged at aside part of the load distribution support, such as on a side part of the waistbelt or the harness, so that the hose can be carried at the hip of the operatorwhile the flexible tube and the rigid tube can extend in the front of the opera- tor to provide efficient load distribution and a favourable working posture.

The connector can be connected to the hose through a swivel, so thatthe connector is rotatable around the hose. Hence, adverse effects due toforces applied on the connector by the hose can be avoided when the hose is positioned and moved around at a building site or similar.

The connector can be displaceable along the hose. Hence, the con-nector can be positioned at the desired position along the hose. Further, the 5 flexible tube, the rigid tube and the foldable tubing can be removed, e.g. in- tentionally or due to disorders, wherein the connector can be positioned cor-rectly and be connected to the load distribution support while the hose is ar-ranged on the shou|der of the operator or is handled directly by the operator in another way.

The connecting device can be arranged as a wire extending betweenside portions of the load distribution support, wherein the connector is dis-placeable along said wire. The wire results in increased movability of thehose and flexible tube in the lateral direction, which is particularly usefulwhen the flexible tube is arranged over the shou|der of the operator. Further,the wire can be connected to the load distribution support through quick re-lease fasteners, such as pins, wherein the wire rapidly can be disconnectedfrom the load distribution support in an emergency.

The shou|der strap or both of the shou|der straps can be provided witha guide, such as a soft, bent or moulded article forming a groove, for receiv-ing and engaging a part of the flexible tube or the hose on the shou|der of theoperator. Hence, by means of the guide the flexible tube is held safely in po-sition on the shoulder of the operator. The shou|der strap and/or the guidecan comprise a soft and/or insulating material to reduce impact from the hoseor flexible tube and insulate from cold material.

The connector can be arranged on a handle, such as a handle ar-ranged between the connector and the hose, wherein the hose with the con- nector easily can be lifted, moved and connected to the connecting device.

The invention also relates to a system for supplying a hardening andpumpable or blowable or sprayable building material to a material applicationsite, comprising a device as mentioned above, said device comprising a firstload distribution support to be used by a first operator applying said materialon the application site, wherein the system comprises a second load distribu-tion support to be used by a second operator positioning a portion of thehose, and a tool with a connector for connection with a connecting device of the second load distribution support. Hence, an efficient system is provided, 6 e.g. for ﬂooring applications, wherein improved working conditions for the first and second Operators are achieved.

Further Characteristics and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent from the description of the embodiments below, the ap-pended drawings and the dependent claims.

SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention will now be described more in detail with the aid of em-bodiment examples and with reference to the appended drawings, in which Fig. 1 is a schematic view illustrating a first operator and a second operatorhandling a device for supplying hardening and pumpable or blowable orsprayable building material to a material application site according to one embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 2 is a schematic side view of the first operator and a part of the deviceaccording to Fig. 1, wherein a part of a hose, a flexible tube, a rigid tube, afoldable tubing and a load distribution support of the device are illustrated more in detail, Fig. 3 is a schematic view of a back of the first operator, illustrating a backpart of the load distribution support, a part of the hose and a part of the flexi-ble tube according to one embodiment, Fig. 4 is a schematic view of the back of the first operator illustrating the backpart of the load distribution support, a part of the hose and a part of the flexi-ble tube according to one alternative embodiment, Figs. 5 and 6 are schematic views of a portion of the device according to oneembodiment, illustrating the foldable tubing more in detail, 7 Figs. 7 and 8 are schematic views of a portion of the device according to one alternative embodiment, illustrating the foldable tubing more in detail, Figs. 9 and 10 are schematic views of a tool with a connector for connectingthe hose to the load distribution support according to one embodiment, Fig. 11 is a schematic view illustrating a first operator and a second operatorhandling a system and the device for supplying a hardening and pumpable orblowable or sprayable building material to a material application site accord- ing to one embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 12 is a schematic view illustrating a first operator and a second operatorhandling the system and the device for supplying a hardening and pumpableor blowable or sprayable building material to a material application site ac- cording to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 13 is a schematic view of the first operator and a part of the device ac-cording to Fig. 12, wherein a part of the hose, the load distribution support,the flexible tube, the rigid tube and the foldable tubing are illustrated more indetail, Fig. 14 is schematic view of a tool connected to the hose according to one embodiment, Fig. 15 is schematic view of the second operator using the tool according toFig. 14, Fig. 16 is schematic view of the tool connected to the hose according to one alternative embodiment, Fig. 17 is schematic view of the second operator using the tool according toFig. 16, 8 Figs. 18 and 19 are schematic views of the connector according to another embodiment, and Figs. 20-23 are schematic front and side views illustrating a tool for grippingand carrying the hose according to one embodiment.

THE INVENTION Referring to Fig. 1 a device 10 for supplying a hardening and pumpa-ble or blowable or sprayable building material to a material application site isillustrated schematically according to one embodiment. The device 10 is ar-ranged for manual distribution of a material, such as a moist, wet or liquidmaterial e.g. in the form of cementitious ﬂooring material, an anhydrite floor-ing material or similar types of materials, an underlayment or overlayment, ona floor structure, a foundation or similar. For example, the device 10 is ar-ranged for supplying the material to a substantially horizontal surface. Alter-natively, the device 10 is also arranged for supplying a material, such asplaster, rendering, a resin and similar materials to a surface, such as a wallstructure or other types of structures. For example, the device 10 is arrangedfor a relatively heavy material, e.g. having a density of at least 400 kg/m3,1000 kg/m3 or 2000 kg/m3. The device 10 is intended for use on a construc-tion site for building, repairing or renovating a structure.

The device 10 comprises a hose 11, such as a main hose, and a loaddistribution support 12. The hose 11 is arranged for conducting the materialfrom a material supply (not illustrated in the drawings) to an operator 13manually distributing said material on the application site by means of thedevice 10. For example, the material supply is a remote material supply ar-ranged several meters, such as at least 5 or 10 meters from the applicationsite. For example, the material supply comprises a considerable amount ofmaterial, such as at least 100 kg, 500 kg or 1000 kg, and cannot be carriedby the operator 13. For example, the hose 11 is connected to a truck com-prising the material supply. The hose 11 is arranged for conducting the mate-rial from the material supply to the application site by pumping or blowing.For example, the truck is provided with a pump or a compressor for conduct- 9 ing the material by pumping or blowing. Alternatively, the hose 11 or materialsupply is connected to a separate pump or Compressor for pumping or blow-ing the material through the hose 11. Alternatively, the hose 11 is connectedto a material supply in the form of a tank, bag or silo provided nearby the ap-plication site, wherein the material is pumped or blown to the application siteby a pump or compressor. Alternatively, the material is mixed nearby the ap-plication site in a mixer, wherein the hose 11 is connected to the mixer andthen conducted through the hose 11 by means of the pump or compressor.For example, the device 10 is arranged for supplying material continuouslyfrom the material supply to the application site through the hose 11 during a material supplying operation, such as a flooring operation. ln the embodiment of Fig. 1 the device 10 is operated by a first opera-tor 13a, wherein the hose 11 or a portion of the hose 11 is handled by a sec-ond operator 13b. The first operator 13a distributes the material on the appli-cation site and the second operator 13b adapts the position of the hose 11between the first operator 13a and the material supply. Hence, the secondoperator 13b moves suitable portions of the hose 11 to facilitate for the firstoperator 13a to position a material outlet to the desired position.

The load distribution support 12 is arranged for distributing the load ofthe hose 11 and any material inside the hose 11 to facilitate distribution of thematerial and improve the working conditions of the first operator 13a. ln theembodiment of Fig. 1 the first operator 13a uses the load distribution support12, wherein the second operator 13b supports the hose 11 directly on his shoulder.

With reference also to Fig. 2 the device 10 comprises a connector 14for connecting the hose 11 to the load distribution support 12. The connector14 is attached to the hose 11. The load distribution support 12 comprises aconnecting device 15 for connection to the connector 14. For example, theconnector 14 and the connection device 15 are arranged for releasable con-nection to each other, so that the hose 11 with the connector 14 can be de-tachably fastened to the load distribution support 12. The connector 14 andthe connecting device 15 are arranged to form an articulated connection be- tween the load distribution support 12 and the hose 11 to facilitate for the operator 13 to move during application operations.

The load distribution support 12 is arranged to be fastened to the firstand/or the second operator 13a, 13b. ln the embodiment of Fig. 1 the loaddistribution support 12 is only fastened to the first operator 13a. The load dis-tribution support 12 according to the illustrated embodiment comprises awaist belt 16 and at least one shoulder strap 17. The waist belt 16 is ar-ranged to extend around the waist of the operator 13, wherein the shoulderstrap 17 is arranged to extend from a back portion of the waist belt 16, overthe shoulder of the operator 13 to a front portion of the waist belt 16. ln theembodiment of Figs. 1 and 2 the load distribution support 12 is formed as aharness to be worn by the first operator 13a. During use the operator 13wears the load distribution support 12, wherein the hose 11 is connected tothe load distribution support 12 through the connector 14 and the connectingdevice 15 so that the hose 11 is supported on the operator 13 by means ofthe load distribution support 12 when the device 10 is operated by the opera-tor 13 to distribute the material on the application site. ln the illustrated embodiment the device 10 comprises a flexible tube18 connected to the hose 11. ln the illustrated embodiment the device 10further comprises a rigid tube 19 and a foldable tubing 20. The hose 11 isarranged between the material supply and the flexible tube 18 and is ar-ranged for conducting the material to the flexible tube 18. For example, theload distribution support 12 is arranged for distributing the load from an endpart of the hose 11, the flexible tube 18 and the rigid tube 19 and also anymaterial therein. Alternatively, the hose 11 is used to distribute the materialon the application site without the ﬂexible tube 18, the rigid tube 19 and thefoldable tubing 20, wherein the material outlet is formed by the hose 11.Then, the hose 11 is supported by the load distribution support 12 andgripped and manoeuvred by the operator 13 to distribute the material on theapplication site. For example, the hose 11 extends over the shoulder of thefirst operator 13a.

According to one embodiment, the hose 11 is a relatively stiff and ro-bust steel mesh reinforced rubber hose for pumping flooring materials, con- 11 crete and similar materials. For example, the hose 11 is arranged to with-stand a pressure for pumping such materials several stories up, such as atleast 10 m up and, for example, through a hose 11 that is at least 20 m long.The hose 11 is connected to the flexible tube 18, for example through a cou-pling 21. ln the embodiment of Fig. 2 the connector 14 is arranged substan-tially at an end of the hose 11 to be connected to the connecting device 15,for example at a lower back position of the first operator 13a.

The ﬂexible tube 18 is more flexible than the hose 11. Alternatively, theflexible tube 18 is replaced by a rigid tube arranged with a desired predeter-mined form, such as a U-shape to be fitted over the shoulder of the operator13. ln the illustrated embodiment the flexible tube 18 is arranged to extendfrom the coupling 21 at one end of the hose 11 and over the shoulder of theoperator 13. For example, the flexibility of the flexible tube 18 allows for theflexible tube 18 to substantially follow the shape of the shoulder of the opera-tor 13. For example, the flexible tube 18 is a relatively light tube, wherein theflexible tube 18 is lighter than the hose 11. For example, the ﬂexible tube 18is a rubber hose or plastic hose optionally having steel reinforcement, glassfibre reinforcement or other suitable type of reinforcement. According to oneembodiment (not illustrated) the device 10 comprises an overflow tube, e.g.at the connection between the hose 11 and the flexible tube 18, to avoidleakage and protect the operator 13 from the material if the flexible tube 18should break.

According to Fig. 2 the load distribution support 12 comprises a guide22 for retaining the flexible tube 18 or the hose 11 at the shoulder of the op-erator 13. The guide 22 is attached to the exterior side of the shoulder strap17 and is arranged to extend substantially upwards when in use. For exam-ple, the guide 22 is arc-shaped and is arranged as a shaped, bent or mould-ed article forming a groove for receiving a portion of the flexible tube 18 orthe hose 11 to be supported on the shoulder of the operator 13. For example,the guide 22 is made of a soft and/or insulating material.

The rigid tube 19 is connected to the flexible tube 18, wherein the flex-ible tube 18 is arranged between the rigid tube 19 and the hose 11. The rigidtube 19 is arranged to be gripped and handled by the first operator 13a. The 12 rigid tube 19 is more rigid than the flexible tube. For example, the rigid tube19 is more rigid than the hose 11. For example, the rigid tube 19 is a plastictube. ln the embodiment of Fig. 2 the rigid tube 19 is connected to a foldabletubing 20 forming the material outlet. The foldable tubing 20 is soft and ar-ranged to be folded by the operator 13 between material distribution opera-tions to avoid dripping of material more easily. For example, the foldable tub-ing 20 is made of soft rubber or other suitable materials. The foldable tubing20 is more flexible than the flexible tube 18 to be manually folded by the op-erator 13.

The connector 14 is, for example, connected to the hose 11 through asleeve 23. The sleeve 23 is fixed to the hose 11 and encloses a portionthereof. According to one embodiment the sleeve 23 comprises a swivel withthe connector 14, wherein the connector 14 is rotatable in relation to the hose11. ln the embodiments of Figs. 1-3 the connecting device 15 is arrangedat a back portion of the load distribution support 12. For example, the con-necting device 15 is arranged at a lower back portion of the load distributionsupport 12, such as at the waist belt 16. For example, the connecting device15 is arranged at a central position of the lower back portion of the load dis-tribution support 12. ln the embodiment of Fig. 3 the load distribution support12 comprises a plate 24 arranged at the lower back portion thereof, whereinthe connecting device 15 is attached to the plate 24. ln the embodiment ofFig. 3 the load distribution support 12 comprises two shoulder straps 17,which optionally are joined in a common vertical back strap 25 as illustratedin Fig. 3. The plate 24 is, for example, attached to the back strap 25 or thewaist belt 16.

The connector 14 and the connecting device 15 are arranged as a de-tachable connection, such as a quick release connection, e.g. in the form of alink to provide the articulated connection. For example, the connector 14 andthe connecting device 15 are arranged as a hook and a loop, respectively,forming the articulated connection between the hose 11 and the load distribu-tion support 12. For example, the connector 14 and/or the connecting device15 comprise a spring hook. ln the embodiment of Fig. 3 the connector 14 is 13 arranged as a loop, for example of metal, which is connected to the hose 11through the coupling 21 _ The coupling 21 is, for example, provided with aswivel, so that the connector 14 is rotatable around the hose 11, which is il-lustrated by the arrows A in Fig. 3. According to one embodiment the articu-lated connection formed by the connector 14 and the connecting device 15 isarranged so that the hose 11 is articulated or rotatable around a longitudinalaxis extending along the hose 11, wherein the hose 11 can be moved some-what in the lateral direction in relation to the load distribution support 12. Forexample, the articulated connection formed by the connector 14 and the con-necting device 15 is arranged so that the hose 11 is articulated or rotata-blearound a lateral axis extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis,wherein the hose 11 can be moved somewhat in a vertical direction in rela-tion to the load distribution support 12 to compensate for a jerking or pullingeffect during pumping of the material through the hose 11. For example thearticulated connection formed by the connector 14 and the connecting device15 is arranged as a link, wherein the articulated connection is articulated insubstantially any direction to compensate for twitching and pulling effects ofthe hose 11 during pumping of the material and also to facilitate for the oper-ator 13 to move around during the application operation. For example, theconnecting device 15 comprises an actuator 26 for releasing the connector14, which actuator 26 is manually operable by the operator 13. The connect-ing device 15 is, for example, arranged as a spring hook or similar, which canbe opened by means of the actuator 26. ln the embodiment of Fig. 3, theconnector 14 is attached to the coupling 21 through a pivot 27 having an axisof rotation in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the hose11. Alternatively, the connector 14 is attached to the hose 11 through the sleeve 23 in a corresponding manner.

With reference to Fig. 4 an alternative embodiment is illustrated,wherein the connector 14 is formed as a hook and the connecting device 15comprises a wire 28. ln the embodiment of Fig. 4 the connector 14 is con-nected to the hose 11 through the coupling 21. For example, the coupling 21is provided with the swivel, so that the connector 14 is rotatable around thelongitudinal axis of the hose 11 as illustrated by the arrows B in Fig. 4. For 14 example, the connector 14 is also pivotable around an axis extending lateral-ly in relation to the longitudinal axis of the hose 11. According to the illustrat-ed embodiment the connector 14 is also rotatable around the wire 28. Theconnector 14 is detachably connected to the load distribution support 12through the wire 28. The wire 28 is attached to the load distribution support12. For example, the wire 28 is attached to side portions of the waist belt 16through connections 29, wherein the wire 28 extends at least partially in thelateral direction from a left side of the load distribution support 12 to a rightside thereof. The connections 29 are, for example, quick release connectionsmanually releasable by the operator 13, such as by pulling a pin of the con-nection 29 to release the wire 28 from it. The connector 14 is movably con-nected to the wire 28 and can slide along the wire 28 between the connec-tions 29 as illustrated by means of the arrows C in Fig. 4. For example, theload distribution support 12 comprises a protecting skirt or plate (not illustrat-ed), e.g. of a plastic material, covering a backside and/or the hip of the op-erator 13 below the waist to avoid wear of clothing and discomfort for the op- erator 13 due to contact with the connector 14 or other parts of the device 10.

With reference to Figs. 5 and 6 a part of the device 10 is illustrated ac-cording to one embodiment. The hose 11 is connected to the connector 14through the sleeve 23 and to the flexible tube 18 through the coupling 21,wherein the flexible tube 18 is connected to the rigid tube 19 provided withthe foldable tubing 20. ln Fig. 5 the foldable tubing 20 is illustrated in its un-folded position forming an outlet for the material, so that the material can bedistributed at the application site through the foldable tubing 20. The foldabletubing 20 is foldable as illustrated by the arrow D in Fig. 6 to its folded posi-tion, in which the material is prevented from exiting the folded tubing 20 pro-vided that the pump is turned off. Hence, the foldable tubing 20 is arrangedfor preventing material from dripping off the material outlet of the device 10formed by the foldable tubing 20 in the embodiment of Figs. 5 and 6.

With reference to Figs. 7 and 8 a part of the device 10 is illustrated ac-cording to an alternative embodiment, wherein the hose 11 is connected tothe connector 14 through the sleeve 23 and to the flexible tube 18 throughthe coupling 21, wherein the flexible tube 18 is connected to the rigid tube 19 through the foldable tubing 20. ln Fig. 7 the foldable tubing 20 is illustrated inits unfolded position forming a conduit for the material, so that the materialcan be conducted to the rigid tube 19 through the foldable tubing 20. Thefoldable tubing 20 is foldable as illustrated by the arrow E in Fig. 8 to its fold-ed position, in which the material is prevented from being conducted throughthe folded tubing 20 to the rigid tube 19 provided that the pump is turned off.Hence, the foldable tubing 20 is arranged for preventing material from reach-ing the rigid tube 19 to prevent material from dripping from the material outletof the device 10 formed by the rigid tube 19 in the embodiment of Figs. 7 and8.

With reference to Figs. 9 and 10 a tool 30 comprising the sleeve 23and the connector 14 are illustrated on a portion of the hose 11 according toone embodiment, wherein the sleeve 23 is releasable for positioning of thesleeve 23 and the connector 14 along the hose 11. For example, the sleeve23 comprises the swivel, so that the connector 14 can be rotated around thehose 11 as described above. Hence, the sleeve 23 with the connector 14 isdisplaceable along the hose 11 as illustrated by means of the arrows F in Fig.10, wherein the sleeve 23 can be fixed at the desired position. For example,the sleeve 23 is fixed at the desired position by means of tightening screws31, which can be loosened for moving the sleeve 23 to another position.Hence, the sleeve 23 forms a hose receiving portion. ln the embodiment ofFigs. 9 and 10 the device 10 comprises a handle 32 connected to the sleeve23, wherein the handle 32 can be used for lifting and handling the sleeve 23with the connector 14 and the part of the hose 11 connected to the sleeve 23.The handle 32 is arranged to be gripped by the operator 13 to facilitate liftingof the hose 11 and connection of the connector 14 to the connecting device15 of the load distribution support 12.

With reference to Fig. 11 a system is illustrated according to one em-bodiment, wherein the first operator 13a wears a first load distribution support12a and the second operator 13b wears a second load distribution support12b. The first load distribution support 12a is arranged according to any ofthe embodiments as described above, i.e. for example, with a waist belt 16and at least one shoulder strap 17. The hose 11 is connected to the lower 16 back of the first load distribution support 12a by means of the connector 14and the connecting device 15, wherein the flexible tube 18 extends over theshoulder of the first operator 13a and the first operator 13a handles the rigidtube 19 for distributing the material at the desired application site. Hence, thesystem comprises the first and second load distribution supports 12a, 12b,the hose 11, the flexible tube 18 and the rigid tube 19 and optionally also thefoldable tubing 20. The second load distribution support 12b comprises atleast the waist belt 16 and optionally also one or more of the shoulder straps17. For example, the second load distribution support 12b comprises one or more of the connecting devices 15.

The system further comprises a hose holding tool 33 connected to thesecond load distribution support 12b. The hose holding tool 33 is arrangedfor carrying the hose 11, wherein the weight of the hose 11 and its contentsaround a carrying point is distributed to the waist belt 16 on the second oper-ator 13b. The hose holding tool 33 comprises a U-shaped hose receiving por-tion for receiving a portion of the hose 11. For example, the hose holding tool33 is detachably connected to the second load distribution support 12b, suchas by means of a spring hook or similar interacting with a loop or hook or similar structure.

With reference also to Fig. 12 a system and a device according to analternative embodiment is illustrated, wherein the first operator 13a isequipped with a load distribution support 12 in the form of a first load distribu-tion support 12a, and the second operator 13b is equipped with the secondload distribution support 12b and the hose holding tool 33 according to Fig11. The first load distribution support 12a according to Fig. 12 is illustratedmore in detail in Fig. 13. ln Fig. 12 the first load distribution support 12a com-prises the waist belt 16 and the shoulder straps 17, wherein the second loaddistribution support 12b only comprises the waist belt 16. Alternatively, the first and second load distribution supports 12a, 12b are similar.

The load distribution support 12 of Fig. 13 comprises the waist belt 16,the shoulder straps 17 and the connecting device 15 for connection to theconnector 14. The connecting device 15 according to the embodiment of Fig.13 is arranged at a side portion of the load distribution support 12, such as at 17 a side portion of the waist belt 16. For example, the connecting device 15 isarranged as a spring hook having the actuator 26 or similar as describedabove. Hence, the load distribution support 12 is arranged so that the hose11 is carried at the side of the first operator 13a, such as at the hip. The con-nector 14 is connected to the hose 11, e.g. through the s|eeve 23. The hose11 is connected to the flexible tube 18, which is connected to the rigid tube19. Optionally, the device 10 also comprises the foldable tubing 20 as de-scribed above. According to the embodiment of Fig. 13 the device 10 is ar-ranged so that the first operator 13a manually can handle the rigid tube 19while the weight of the hose 11 and the material inside the hose 11 are dis-tributed to the body of the first operator 13a through the connecting device 15of the load distribution support 12 at the hip of the first operator 13a. ln the embodiment of Fig. 13 the load distribution support 12 is provid-ed with a lamp 34 for illuminating the material application site for the first op-erator 13a. For example, the lamp 34 is arranged at a lower front portion ofthe load distribution support 12, such as at a front portion of the waist belt 16.Hence, the lamp 34 is positioned to give the first operator 13a improved visi-bility of the application site, which can result in a more upright posture of thefirst operator 13a during the application operation. A more upright working posture has an ergonomically favourable effect.

With reference to Figs. 14 and 15 a hose lifting and holding tool 35 isillustrated according to one embodiment. The tool 35 comprises a hose re-ceiving portion in the form of a hose clamp 36 for connection to the hose 11.For example, the hose clamp 36 comprises a hinge 37, wherein the hoseclamp 36 can be opened for insertion of a portion of the hose 11 and thenclosed and tightened by screws 38 or similar to attach the hose clamp 36 tothe hose 11. The hose clamp 36 is connected to a handle 39 so that the tool35 can be manually lifted and handled by one of the operators 13 and par-ticularly the second operator 13b. For example, the hose clamp 36 includes aswivel, wherein the handle 39 can be rotated around the hose 11. The handle39 is provided with the connector 14 for connection with the connecting de-vice 15 of the load distribution support 12. Hence, the tool 35 is arranged tobe fastened to the hose 11, wherein the hose 11 can be lifted and moved by 18 means of the tool 35 and also fastened to the load distribution support 12 tobe carried by the operator 13. For example, the handle 39 is rotatable aroundits own longitudinal axis. ln the illustrated embodiment the connector 14 isarranged as a loop for interaction with the connecting device 15. The con-necting device 15 is, for example, arranged as a spring hook. Alternatively,the connector 14 is arranged as a spring hook or similar, wherein the con-necting device 15 is arranged as a loop. The load distribution support 12 is,for example, arranged as described above with reference to Fig. 13, i.e. witha waist belt 16 and optionally at least one shoulder strap 17, wherein theconnecting device 15 is arranged at a lower side portion, such as at a sideportion of the waist belt 16, so that the connecting device 15 is arranged atthe hip of the operator 13.

With reference to Figs 16 and 17 an alternative embodiment of a hoselifting and holding tool 40 is illustrated. The tool 40 according to the embodi-ment of Figs. 16 and 17 comprises a hose receiving portion 41 in the form ofa curved structure with open ends forming a groove for holding a portion ofthe hose 11. The hose receiving portion 41 is connected to a handle 42 sothat the tool 40 can be manually lifted and handled by one of the operators13 and particularly the second operator 13b. The handle 42 is connected toone side of the hose receiving portion 41 leaving an opening upwards for in-sertion of the hose 11, so that the hose receiving portion 41 engages a lowerportion of the hose 11. The handle 42 is provided with a connector 14 forconnection with the connecting device 15 of the load distribution support 12.Hence, the tool 40 is arranged to engage the hose 11 from below, whereinthe hose 11 extends through the hose receiving portion 41, so that the hose11 can be lifted and moved by means the tool 40 and also fastened to theload distribution support 12 by means of the connector 14. For example, thetool 40 is displaceable along the hose 11. For example, the connector 14 andthe connecting device 15 are arranged as a loop and hook, respectively. Theload distribution support 12 is, for example, arranged as described abovewith reference to Fig. 13, i.e. with a waist belt 16 and optionally at least one shoulder strap 17, wherein the connecting device 15 is arranged at a lower 19 side portion, such as at a side portion of the waist belt 16, so that the con- necting device 15 is arranged at the hip of the operator 13.

With reference to Figs. 18 and 19 a connector 14 according to oneembodiment is illustrated, wherein the connector 14 is connected to the hose11. The connector 14 according to the embodiment of Figs. 18 and 19 is ar-ranged as a hook 43, such as a spring hook, provided with the actuator 26.The hook 43 is arranged on a bar 44 connected to the hose 11, e.g. throughthe s|eeve 23 or similar. ln the illustrated embodiment, the bar 44 is connect-ed to the sleeve 23 through a pivot 45. The bar 44 is connected to a grip por-tion 46 to be gripped by the operator 13 when operating the actuator 26. Theactuator 26 extends from the hook 43 and is displaceable towards the gripportion 46 for opening the hook 43 to release the connector 14 from the con-necting device 15 as illustrated by means of the arrow G in Fig. 19.

With reference to Figs. 20-23 a tool 47 for gripping and carrying the hose 11is illustrated according to one embodiment. The tool 47 comprises a hosereceiving portion 48, a handle 49 and an elongated bar 50 extending be-tween the hose receiving portion 48 and the handle 49. The tool 47 is ar-ranged with an opening, e.g. in the lateral direction, for inserting the hose 11into the hose receiving portion 48. The tool 47 also comprises a blockingmeans 51 for blocking said opening, and an actuator 52 for operating theblocking means 51. For example, the actuator 52 is displaceable, which isillustrated by means of the arrow H in Fig. 22, to displace the blocking means51 correspondingly to open the opening, which is illustrated by means of thearrow I in Fig. 23. ln the open position of the tool 47, which is illustrated inFig. 23, the hose 11 can be inserted into the hose receiving portion 48. ln theclosed position of the tool 47, which is illustrated in Fig. 21, the opening intothe hose receiving portion 48 is blocked by the blocking means 51 to preventthe hose 11 from unintentionally leaving the hose receiving portion 48. Forexample, the actuator 52 is spring biased towards the closed position. Alter-natively, the actuator 52 is manually displaceable to close the opening,wherein the actuator optionally is spring biased towards the open position.For example, the tool 47 comprises the connector 14 (not illustrated), where-in the tool 47 is connectable to the load distribution support 12

Claims

1. A device (10) for supplying a hardening and pumpable or blowable orsprayable building material to a material application site, comprising a hose(11) for conducting said material from a material supply to an operator (13)manually distributing said material on the application site by means of the -.~.> .> ..- .f\_-'.~ .\.».\.~ .s .~\...s x. n... . .\.~\_»_.- a* E :M svt-Nru \\» 'Q .\< !!.\\*. ._ r 0 n _ Cx.. f. .\.. t... e m a m n e m, .m .Å Y. h m h 0 ..L 1 k.. H Kmv .__ ._ ...L O r ..|. C U (\ w _.. w.. Qmffmmæmm .m w __... _ ..L ..L _ n »__ 0 .w .h Wu .ß W n C _.._u..C _ t. m 1 w d U .D .g a _ C. L. 1 h ...__ ......_ _. æ U (\ ...U .w S .m ...___ _ ...Am ...w .Nw b e r \) n b w...Mm du.. mn m Lwll. S a 3 .n w... \\ c W o e H. m .m w . e h h ..__ _ ___... _ h D. e ..L N .hlu .O ß ._ __ _. ___. h U h r C ...a N .H ._ 0 S .m g .m .ü .w _. ...___ . \.. r .| x.. \.. . _ c n d u e d .lo _... ..._ .. .ß .ß n m D d .__ t a h o a e a ...m_..\.. 0 .. _ d u \/ ..|. in .d n. k... \mm __... n 2 \|/ e m t ..\.. ..~\ \...___ _ a .w 1 3 .m e .m 7 F.. _.. \/ S /\ Ü V, h e VI\ P L ___..___. \ \ 1 .| ..L ..L .l n... _.. ...w.. H 1 d .m .m b n .m 0. _. n......_ v. ._ (\ .| ._.__ ___... _.\ e .dm W m w e w .m . A æ o u m m m , s .u m. h e s p. m e e .m nu m N. ...w W. N u” e .m .m o D .ü o U ...a _. ...__ ._ h f t. e 0 S ___.. - U _ A. _ __.nu ..\ \ t ln ~ 1 1 ...ss .\_. L........__ M... 0 n ..|. S n mv 0 n.. ...w _... _. m m, e n u, .b .m .m m s a d 1 m o 0 m .la ...f .la e .n __... .__ .æ l\ t. d Ü .m C 6 C n ü C ._ _ C S e e I 0 1 0 0 n. ._ s _._ e e e b .n e D. t. l\ t. t. . _ _.. n._... .h ...__ A h .ole h 0 .nio D. ...__ g H g S ä.. a S.. _. n v 0 0. v a n e n a .n mm. N. s 0 e .U D. e e .Alu .O .Alu F» __.._._._ ___e _. ___... _” C d C w d um r ä r t. w __ ...___ .m _.. m .ß 9 m m n w i w a .H d ) .m n .ß _. o c m c s _....v e .mm MH M C O »\|/ n l a a ï ...___ .h .ß ( e C 1 e .m e a e .n e. .HO r Q 0 r n d l\ h mio e .m S .m D. ..._ ...__1 e __.. __.. __... o n e e W t __... v e v m nu.. (\ t JH. :m _ ._ ._ ..l. 0 ..l. a e S e \ ... S.. v.. nC __. ._ __ _. _ C C a S n _.. .I O ...___ _ .e 8 i e | O 0 m .O .nrv .O C _... R..nio r .Å h e U h ...U Å Å \./ s.. a . _ wl C C d . m ._ _. \..V Q ._.... Ü h 0 .I e .I 2 ...e _._e h ___... __ _ _ O ..H h e a . O . 1 -..CH N..d C __ .___ C m a t. n S 2 C 3 (x .__ 5 \_».\.> 21 A device according to comprising a rigidtube (19) connected to the flexible tube (18), wherein the ﬂexible tube (18) isarranged between the rigid tube (19) and the hose (11), wherein the rigidtube (19) is more rigid than the flexible tube (18), and wherein the rigid tube(19) is arranged to be gripped and handled by the operator (13) to distribute said material on the application site. A device according to claim comprising a foldable tubing (20) con-nected to the rigid tube (19), wherein the foldable tubing (20) is arranged tobe manually folded by the operator (13) to prevent material from leaving thedevice (10) when the distribution of said material on the application site hasbeen stopped. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein one or moreof said connecting devices (15) is/are arranged on a side portion of the loaddistribution support (12) and/or on a back portion thereof. A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein thenector (14) is connected to the hose (11) through a swivel, so that the con-nector (14) is rotatable around a longitudinal axis of the hose (11). A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the connect-or (14) is displaceable along the hose (11). A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the con-necting device (15) is arranged as a wire (28) extending between side por-tions of the load distribution support (12), wherein the connector (14) is dis-placeable along said wire (28). A device according to claim wherein the wire (28) is connected tothe load distribution support (12) through at least one releasable connection(29). 22 A device according to any of the preceding claims and claim 3, where-in the at least one shoulder strap (17) is provided with a guide (22) for engag-ing and supporting a portion of the hose (11) or of the flexible tube (18) onthe shoulder of the operator (13). A device according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the con-nector (14) is arranged on a handle (39, 42). A system for supp|ying a hardening and pumpable or blowable orsprayable building material to a material application site, comprising a device(10) according to any of the preceding claims, said device (10) comprising afirst load distribution support (12a) to be used by a first operator (13a) apply-ing said material on the application site, wherein the system comprises asecond load distribution support (12b) to be used by a second operator (13b)positioning a portion of the hose (11), and a tool (30, 33, 35, 40) with a con-nector (14) for connection with a connecting device (15) of the second load distribution support (12b). A system according to claim wherein the tool (30, 33, 35, 40)comprises a hose receiving portion (23, 36, 41) for engaging a portion of thehose (11), and a handle (32, 39, 42) for manually operating the tool (30, 33,35, 40) for lifting and moving the hose (11). A system according to claim comprising a tool (47) arrangedwith a lateral opening for inserting the hose (11) into a hose receiving portion(48), and wherein the tool (47) comprises blocking means (51) for blockingthe lateral opening, and an actuator (52) for operating the blocking means (51) to open and/or close the lateral opening. Use of a device according to any of claims a system ac- cording to any of claims __§§___to distribute a hardening building materi- al on a surface by pumping or blowing or spraying. 23 Use of a device or a system according to claim ^ cementitious flooring material.