US20210156156A1

US20210156156A1 - Independent self-climbing form system for building vertical structures

Info

Publication number: US20210156156A1
Application number: US17/088,113
Authority: US
Inventors: Oliver Mork
Original assignee: Om Engineering Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Om Engineering Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2019-11-27
Filing date: 2020-11-03
Publication date: 2021-05-27
Also published as: EP4065794A4; AU2020392963A1; CA3159823A1; EP4065794A1; WO2021105771A1

Abstract

An independent self-climbing form system may be assembled at a work site to build, maintain, or repair vertical structures. The independent self-climbing form system may include a plurality of support towers. Additionally, at least two trusses may be connected to the plurality of support towers. The trusses may be spaced apart from each other. Further, one or more platforms may be formed within a perimeter delimited by the at least two trusses. The at least one or more platforms may be configured to extend or retract within the perimeter. Furthermore, screw jacks may be disposed at each connection point of the at least two trusses on the plurality of support towers. The screw jacks may be configured to vertically move the at least two trusses up and down the plurality of support towers.

Description

BACKGROUND

Scaffolding structures may be used to support workers and materials to aid in the construction, maintenance, and repairs of building, bridges, and other vertically rising structures. Conventional scaffolding structures include a scaffold that is attached and anchored to a vertically rising structure being constructed, maintained, or repaired. Additionally, conventional scaffolding structures are limited to a set work area when they are attached and anchored to the corresponding vertically rising structure.

SUMMARY

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.
In one aspect, the embodiments disclosed herein relate to an independent self-climbing form system. The independent self-climbing form system may include a plurality of support towers and at least two trusses connected to the plurality of support towers. The trusses may be spaced apart from each other, and one or more platforms formed within a perimeter delimited by the at least two trusses. The at least one or more platforms may be configured to extend or retract within the perimeter. Screw jacks may be disposed at each connection point of the at least two trusses on the plurality of support towers, where the screw jacks may be configured to vertically move the at least two trusses up and down the plurality of support towers. Each of the support towers of the plurality of support towers may be formed from a plurality of tower segments stacked on top of each other. An end truss may be disposed at ends of the at least two trusses to connect the at least two trusses together.
A peripheral edge of the at least two trusses and the end trusses may form the perimeter. One or more housings may be disposed on the end trusses. The one or more platforms may be a work platform. The work platform may be a multi-level deck platform. The screw jacks may include a motor, a gearbox, and a threaded rod. A locking device may be configured lock the trusses at a vertically position on the plurality of support towers. An anti-rotational device may be disposed on the threaded rod. Controls and a computer system may be disposed on the trusses to manually and/or automatically operate the independent self-climbing form system.
In another aspect, the embodiments disclosed herein relate to a method for installing an independent self-climbing form system at a site. The method may include erecting a plurality of support towers at the site, and connecting at least two trusses to the plurality of support towers. The trusses may be spaced apart from each other, and at least one or more platforms may be formed within a perimeter delimited by the at least two trusses. Screw jacks may be provided at each connection point of the at least two trusses on the plurality of support towers. The method may further include stacking and coupling a plurality of tower segments on top of each other to increase a height of the plurality of support towers, as well as providing an end truss at ends of the at least two trusses to connect the at least two trusses together, and installing wood planks or plywood or composite boards or metal grate flooring on the trusses, the platforms, and the end trussed to form walkways.
In yet another aspect, the embodiments disclosed herein relate to a method for using the independent self-climbing form system to build a vertical structure. The method may include vertically moving the at least two trusses up or down a plurality of support towers with screw jacks at each connection point between the at least two trusses and the plurality of support towers. The at least two trusses may be locked at a vertical position on the plurality of support towers to access the vertical structure. The method may also include extending or retracting at least one or more of the platforms connected to the at least two trusses around the vertical structure. The vertically moving of the at least two trusses may include moving a motor of the screw jacks up a threaded rod. The locking of the at least two trusses may include removably bolting an arm at an end of the threaded rod to a rigid framework of the plurality of support towers. The method may further include leveling each of the at least two trusses at a same height on the plurality of support towers. A non-transitory computer-readable medium may also be provided, including instructions, executable by a processor, wherein the instructions include functionality to control the independent self-climbing form system.
Other aspects and advantages will be apparent from the following description and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate various schematic views of an independent self-climbing form system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 2A-2I illustrate various perspective views of an independent self-climbing form system according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 shows a flowchart in accordance with one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4 shows a computing system in accordance with one or more embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below in detail with reference to the accompanying figures. Wherever possible, like or identical reference numerals are used in the figures to identify common or the same elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale and certain features and certain views of the figures may be shown exaggerated in scale for purposes of clarification. Further, in the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, it will be apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the description. As used herein, the term “coupled” or “coupled to” or “connected” or “connected to” may indicate establishing either a direct or indirect connection, and is not limited to either unless expressly referenced as such. Further, as used herein the term “operationally coupled” or “operationally coupled to” or “operationally connected” or “operationally connected to” may indicate establishing either a direct or indirect connection to allow movement between components, and is not limited to either unless expressly referenced as such.
Further, embodiments disclosed herein are described with terms designating a vertical structure in reference to a structure that vertically extends, but any terms designating vertical structure type should not be deemed to limit the scope of the disclosure. For example, embodiments of the disclosure may be used on buildings and bridges, such as skyscrapers, columns, piers, abutments, piles, substructure and superstructure components of bridges and support structures. It is to be further understood that the various embodiments described herein may be used in various stages of the vertical structure, such as site preparation, constructing and erecting the vertical structure, maintenance, repairs, etc., and in other environments, such as oil and gas rig sites, refineries, power plants, and other sites that require vertical structures, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Further, the vertical structures may be man-made or naturally occurring. In some embodiments, the vertical structures may be made from concrete, steel or other metals, wood, composite, glass, or any combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, an independent self-climbing form system is assembled at a work site to aid in constructing, maintaining and/or repairing the vertical structure. It is further envisioned that the independent self-climbing form system may be manually operated or automated. The embodiments are described merely as examples of useful applications, which are not limited to any specific details of the embodiments herein.
In one or more embodiments, the Figures illustrate various views of an independent self-climbing form system according to the present disclosure. Because the system and methods may apply to any of the embodiments, reference numbers are not referenced to avoid confusion of the numbering between the different embodiments. The independent self-climbing form system may be assembled at a work site to build, maintain, or repair vertical structures. The independent self-climbing form system may include a plurality of support towers spaced a distance away from each other. One skilled in the art will appreciate how any number of support towers may be used without departing from the present scope of the disclosure. The plurality of support towers may be formed from a plurality of tower segments stacked on top of each other. In a non-limiting example, each tower segment may be a size similar to that of a shipping container to allow for easy transportation. Additionally, the plurality of support towers may have platforms, stairs, ladders or elevators attached thereto for workers to use. The plurality of support towers may be anchored into a ground at the site.
Additionally, trusses may be connected to the plurality of support towers such that the trusses are spaced apart from each other. The plurality of support towers and the trusses may form a perimeter around the vertical structures. It is further envisioned that an end truss may be disposed at ends of the trusses such that the trusses are connected together. The end truss may provide a weight balance to minimize or eliminate sagging in the trusses. Further, at least one or more platforms are provided within the independent self-climbing form system. The platforms are formed and delimited by a peripheral edge of the trusses and the end truss to form a work perimeter.
The platforms may provide an area for workers such that the platforms are a work platform. In some embodiments, the platforms may be reconfigurable any way (vertically, horizontally, etc.) to be arranged with respect to the vertical structure. One skilled in the art will appreciate how the platforms may extend and retract to adjust the work perimeter based on the size and shape of the vertical structure. It is further envisioned that one or more offices, break areas, storage spaces, or living corridors may be provided on the plurality of support towers, the trusses, and/or the end truss.
In one or more embodiments, lifting mechanisms may be used to vertically move the trusses up and down the plurality of support towers. In a non-limiting example, the lifting mechanisms may be screw jacks disposed at each connection point of the trusses on the plurality of support towers. In a non-limiting example, a motor and a gearbox may work in conjunction to move the screw jacks up and down. The motor and the gearbox may power a jack of the screw jack which in turn moves a jackscrew of the screw jack to climb up or down a mast leg of the plurality of support towers. A latch arm may be provided at an end of the jackscrew to latch onto the mast leg. A nut may be used to lock the latch arm to the jackscrew. It is further envisioned that the latch arm may be two pieces hinged together and one of the hinged pieces may include a removable lock to lock onto the mast leg. In one or more embodiments, at end opposite the latch arm, an anti-rotation device may be attached to the jackscrew.
Additionally, one or more locking mechanisms may be provided to lock the screw jacks such that the trusses are secured at a position on the plurality of support towers to build the vertical structure. In a non-limiting example, the locking mechanism may be a rod with one end removably fixed to the screw jacks and an opposite end removably fixed to a mast leg. It is further envisioned that a control panel may be provided on the trusses to operate the independent self-climbing form system. The control panel may be manually operated or automated.
Referring now to FIG. 1A, a schematic side view of an independent self-climbing form system 100 to embodiments herein is illustrated. As illustrated in FIG. 1A, the independent self-climbing form system 100 may include one or more support towers 101 at a work site 1. The one or more support towers 101 may be spaced on at the work site 1 to be adjacent to one or more vertically rising structures 2. The one or more support towers 101 may be formed from a plurality of tower segments 102 stacked and coupled on top of each other. One skilled in the art will appreciate how any number of tower segments 102 may be used to have the one or more support towers 101 reach a height for operations on the one or more vertically rising structures 2. In a non-limiting example, each tower segment 102 may have a rigid framework made from a plurality of steel beams, steel columns, pipe sections, square hollow sections or a combination thereof connected together. Additionally, the plurality of support towers 102 may have platforms, stairs, ladders or elevators 103 attached thereto for workers to use. In a non-limiting example, the platforms, stairs, ladders or elevators 103 may be attached within or outside the plurality of support towers 102. It is further envisioned that the platforms, stairs, ladders or elevators 103 may be independent of the plurality of support towers 102 in a free standing structure. For simplicity purposes only, the platforms, stairs, ladders or elevators 103 are only shown in one tower segment 102 to avoid confusion in the drawings.
In one or more embodiments, the independent self-climbing form system 100 may include one or more trusses 104 operationally connected to the one or more support towers 101. The one or more trusses 104 may extend from a first end 105 to a second end 106 such that the one or more support towers 101 is connected to the one or more trusses 104 between the first end 105 and the second end 106. While it is noted that the one or more trusses 104 are shown as being horizontal trusses, the one or more trusses 104 may be shaped to have a curve or may be circular without departing from the present scope of the disclosure. The one or more trusses 104 may have a rigid framework made from a plurality of steel beams connected together such that walkways and other surfaces may be formed within and on top of the one or more trusses 104 for workers to use. In a non-limiting example, wood planks or plywood or composite boards or metal grate flooring may be placed on the plurality of steel beams to form the walkways and surfaces.
In some embodiments, a plurality of platforms (107, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c) may be operationally connected to the one or more trusses 104. In a non-limiting example, the plurality of platforms (107, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c) may include upper platforms 107 and lower platforms (207 a, 207 b, 207 c). Both the upper platforms 107 and the lower platforms (207 a, 207 b, 207 c) may be adjustable in real-time to slide toward and away from the one or more vertically rising structures 2 to accommodate shape and design changes in the one or more vertically rising structures 2. The upper platforms 107 may be formed by various platforms (see 107 a, 107 b, 107 c in FIG. 1B) on a top surface of the one or more trusses 104. Additionally, the lower platforms (207 a, 207 b, 207 c) may be connected on a bottom surface of the one or more trusses 104. In a non-limiting example, a middle lower platform 207 a may be provided to access surfaces of the one or more vertically rising structures 2 below the one or more trusses 104. Further, an outer surface of the one or more vertically rising structures 2 below the one or more trusses 104 may be accessed by a two tier lower platform having a first lower platform 207 b on top of a second lower platform 207 c. The first lower platform 207 b, in some configurations, may be offset from the second lower platform 207 c to allow for angled movement along the one or more vertically rising structures 2. The plurality of platforms (107, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c) may each be work platforms for workers to work on the one or more vertically rising structures 2. The plurality of platforms (107, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c) may retract or extend with respect to the one or more vertically rising structures 2 to allow for various shapes of the one or more vertically rising structures 2 to be accommodated within the independent self-climbing form system 100. It is further envisioned that any of the plurality of platforms 107 may be a multi-level deck platform such that platforms may be on top and below the one or more trusses 104. In a non-limiting example, wood planks or plywood or composite boards or metal grate flooring may be placed on the plurality of platforms (107, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c) to form a path for workers to use.
Additionally, one or more end trusses 108 may be connected at the first end 105 and the second end 106 of the one or more trusses 104. One skilled in the art will appreciate how the one or more end trusses 108 may be used to add weight to the first end 105 and the second end 106 of the one or more trusses 104 to eliminate a sagging in the one or more trusses 104. Additionally, one or more housings 109 may be disposed on and/or within the one or more end trusses 108 and/or the one or more trusses 104. The one or more housings 109 may be a control room, break room, living corridors, restrooms, and office buildings. The control room may include controls and a computer system to manually and/or automatically operate the independent self-climbing form system 100.
Still referring to FIG. 1A, in one or more embodiments, screw jacks 111 or hydraulic jacks may be disposed at each connection point of the one or more trusses 104 on the one or more support towers 101. The screw jacks 111 may be used to vertically move the one or more trusses 104 up and down the one or more support towers 101. While it is noted that only one screw jack 111 is shown on each support tower 101, this is merely for example purposes only and a plurality of screw jacks may be used at each support tower 101. The screw jacks 111, including a motor and gearbox 112, may be coupled to a threaded rod 113. The threaded rod 113 may extend a length along an outer surface of the screw jack 111 such that the screw jack 111 climbs up and down the threaded rod 113. It is further envisioned that an anti-rotational device 114 may be disposed on the threaded rod 113 to ensure that the threaded rod 113 does not rotate. In a non-limiting example, the anti-rotational device 114 may be a bolt or nut. Further, a locking device 115 may be used to lock the one or more trusses 104 at a vertical position on the one or more support towers 101. In a non-limiting example, the locking device 115 may be an arm extending from the threaded rod 113, where the arm may be removably bolted to the support tower 101.
Referring now to FIG. 1B, a schematic top view of the independent self-climbing form system 100 to embodiments herein is illustrated. As shown in FIG. 1B, four support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may be spaced around the vertically rising structures 2 to space apart a first truss 104 a and a second truss 104 b. Additionally, a first end truss 105 a and a second end truss 105 b may extend between the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b. In one or more embodiments, an inner peripheral edge of the first truss 104 a, the second truss 104 b, the first end truss 105 a, and the second end truss 105 b may delimit a perimeter 116 around the vertically rising structures 2. It is further envisioned that a middle truss 110 may be connected from the first truss 104 a to the second truss 104 b between the vertically rising structures 2 to split the perimeter 116 in two and to provide additional workspace between the vertically rising structures 2.
In one or more embodiments, upper platforms (107, FIG. 1A), disposed on the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b, may include various movable platforms around each vertically rising structures 2. In a non-limiting example, the upper platforms (107) may have two end platforms 107 a, two side platforms 107 b, and two middle platforms 107 c. Additionally, each of the platforms (107 a, 107 b, 107 c) may extend and retract in a direction shown by arrows in FIG. 1B. In a non-limiting example, each of the platforms (107 a, 107 b, 107 c) may individually move with respect to each other. By individually moving each of the platforms (107 a, 107 b, 107 c), the independent self-climbing form system 100 may accommodate essentially any shape or size change in the vertically rising structures 2.
Now referring to FIGS. 2A-2I, FIGS. 2A-2I illustrate various perspective views of the independent self-climbing form system 100 being installed, assembled, and operated according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2A, the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may be erected at the work site 1 to surround the vertically rising structures 2. While it is noted that four support towers are shown in FIG. 2A, this is merely for example purposes only and any number of support towers may be used without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In a non-limiting example, a crane 200 may lift the rigid framework of the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d to be upright at the work site 1. Additionally, each of the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may have a height H corresponding to an initial height iH of the vertically rising structures 2. In a non-limiting example, the height H of the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may be greater than the initial height iH of the vertically rising structures 2 (for example, the lower portions of the rising structures 2 may not require scaffolding or an elevated work surface, whereas the sections to be built above iH may require such). It is further envisioned that the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may be anchored to a ground of the work site 1.
In one or more embodiments, once the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d are erected, the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b are operationally coupled to the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d as shown in FIG. 2B. In a non-limiting example, the first truss 104 a may be operationally coupled to the first support tower 101 a and the second support tower 101 b. The second truss 104 b may be operationally coupled to the third support tower 101 c and the fourth support tower 101 d. In some embodiments, a crane may lift the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b onto the first support tower 101 a and the second support tower 101 b, respectively. It is further envisioned that the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b may be directly assembled onto the first support tower 101 a and the second support tower 101 b, respectively, on a ground level of the work site 1. Additionally, the first truss 104 a may be spaced a distance D from the second truss 104 b such that the vertically rising structures 2 are in the space between the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b.
As shown in FIG. 2C, in one or more embodiments, once the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b are installed, the first end truss 105 a and the second end truss 105 b may be coupled to the ends of the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b. In a non-limiting example, the first end truss 105 a and the second end truss 105 b may each extend from the first truss 104 a to the second truss 104 b at ends opposite from each other. Further, the first end truss 105 a and the second end truss 105 b may provide additional workspace, restrooms, break rooms, storage space, and be used for connectivity of the one or more platforms (see 107 in FIGS. 1A and 1B). It is further envisioned that the first end truss 105 a and the second end truss 105 b may be replaced with counter-weight measures at each end of the first truss 104 a to the second truss 104 b. In a non-limiting example, steel or concrete blocks may be provided in each end of the first truss 104 a to the second truss 104 b to prevent sagging.
Additionally, the independent self-climbing form system 100 forms a work perimeter (116) around the vertically rising structures 2. The work perimeter (116) may be delimited by the first truss 104 a, the second truss 104 b, the first end truss 105 a, and the second end truss 105 b. Further, the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b may be positioned and locked on the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d at a vertical position that may have a height H′ less than the height H of the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d.
Now referring to FIG. 2D, in one or more embodiments, the middle truss 110 may be connected to and extend from the first truss 104 a to the second truss 104 b. Additionally, the middle truss 110 may split the work perimeter (116) to have one vertically rising structure 2 on adjacent sides of the middle truss 110. With the trusses (104 a, 104 b, 104c, 104d, 105 a, 105 b, 110) installed and assembled, the one or more platforms 107 (see 107 a, 107 b, 107 c, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c described in FIGS. 1A and 1B) may be operationally connected to the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b.
Referring now to FIGS. 2E-2G, in one or more embodiments, one or more formwork panels 202 may be landed on the vertically rising structures 2 and operationally coupled to the one or more platforms 107. The one or more formwork panels 202 may be used to form an outer surface of the vertically rising structures 2. In a non-limiting example, the one or more formwork panels 202 may be rigid such that a shape of the one or more formwork panels 202 is maintained to allow the outer surface of the vertically rising structures 2 to be formed. Additionally, the one or more formwork panels 202 may enclose the vertically rising structures 2 to form an inner chamber 203 and allow for a settling of materials of the vertically rising structures 2 such as concrete that have been poured.
In some embodiments, an internal formwork frame 204 may be inserted into the inner chamber 203 formed from the one or more formwork panels 202. In addition, the internal formwork frame 204 may be independent of the one or more formwork panels 202 such that the internal formwork frame 204 may be installed before landing the one or more formwork panels 202. In a non-limiting example, the internal formwork frame 204 may be a steel frame. Additionally, the internal formwork frame 204 may be used to support an inner housing of the vertically rising structures 2. With the internal formwork frame 204, materials such as concrete or composite may be poured into or onto the vertically rising structures 2. It is further envisioned that materials such as concrete or composite may be poured into or onto the vertically rising structures 2 without using the internal formwork frame 204.
Now referring to FIGS. 2H and 2I, in one or more embodiments, the vertically rising structures 2 may be further built to have a new height nH greater than the initial Height iH. With the new height nH of the vertically rising structures 2, the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b may be raised to higher vertical position on the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d at a height H″. The height H″ may be greater than the previous height (See H′ in FIG. 2C) of the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b. As shown in FIG. 2H, the vertically rising structures 2 may be built such that they are inclined toward each other. As may be readily envisioned based on FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2D-2I, the work platforms (see 107 107 a, 107 b, 107 c, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c) may each be adjusted before or during vertical movement of the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b so as to not damage the vertically rising structures 2. Additionally, the work platforms (see 107 107 a, 107 b, 107 c, 207 a, 207 b, 207 c) may be set once the first truss 104 a and the second truss 104 b reach the new height so as to provide the appropriate work surfaces to access and continue building the vertically rising structures 2.
As shown in FIG. 21, a height of the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may be increased. In a non-limiting example, each of the plurality of support towers 101 a, 101 b, 101 c, 101 d may have a second tower segment 102 b stacked on top of a first tower segment 102 a. A rigid framework of the second tower segment 102 b may couple to a rigid framework of the first tower segment 102 a. Additionally, the first tower segment 102 a and the second tower segment 102 b may be bolted together to be locked in place. Further, the first tower segment 102 a and the second tower segment 102 b may be interchangeable such that either tower segment 102 a, 102 b may be on the bottom or top and have additional tower segments added thereon. It is further envisioned that alignment features may be provided on both the first tower segment 102 a and the second tower segment 102 b to ensure coupling connection between each other.
Turning to FIG. 3, a flowchart in accordance with one or more embodiments is shown. Specifically, FIG. 3 describes a general method for using the independent self-climbing form system 100 as described in FIGS. 1A-21. One or more blocks in FIG. 3 may be performed by a computer system as described in FIGS. 4A and 4B. For example, the computer system may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium with instructions executable by a processor. The instructions may include functionality to control the independent self-climbing form system. While the various blocks in FIG. 3 are presented and described sequentially, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that some or all of the blocks may be executed in different orders, may be combined or omitted, and some or all of the blocks may be executed in parallel. Furthermore, the blocks may be performed actively or passively.
In Block 300, after the independent self-climbing form system has been assembled, trusses may vertically move up or down a plurality of support towers in accordance with one or more embodiments. For example, screw jacks at each connection point between the at least two trusses and the plurality of support towers may vertically move the trusses. The screw jacks may be operated by having each motor and gearbox move the screw jacks up or down a threaded rod. Additionally, in order to keep the threaded rod from rotating, an anti-rotation device (e.g., bolt or nut) may be disposed at an end of the threaded rod. It is further envisioned that one or more sensors may be disposed on or provided within the screw jacks and/or trusses to determine a rate at which the trusses are moving.
In Block 310, once the trusses reach a vertical position for performing operation on the vertical structures, each truss may be leveled to be at a same height in accordance with one or more embodiments. For example, the screw jacks may raise the trusses at a rate such that each truss is horizontal and even for workers to use and meet safety regulations. It is further envisioned that one or more sensors may be used to provide measurements to ensure that the trusses are level. Likewise, during the vertical moving of the trusses, the one or more sensors may provide real-time data to a rate of the vertical movement of each truss.
In Block 320, with the trusses level and at the vertical position for performing operation on the vertical structures, the trusses may be locked at the vertical position on the plurality of support towers with a locking device. For example, the locking device may be an arm extending from an end of each threaded rod of the screw jacks and may be removably bolted to a rigid framework of the plurality of support towers. By locking the trusses, workers may safely access the vertical structures. Additionally, the screw jacks may also be locked. For example, an anti-rotational device may be disposed on the threaded rod such that the threaded rod does not rotate to ensure the screw jacks are non-operational while the trusses are locked.
In Block 330, with the trusses locked, platforms operationally connected to the trusses may be extended or retracted in accordance with one or more embodiments. For example, the platforms surround the vertical structures to allow for workers to access the vertical structures. The platforms may be extended to be adjacent and/or rest against the vertical structures. Additionally, the platforms may be retracted to create space for the vertical structures and allow movement of the trusses without damaging the vertical structures and the components of the independent self-climbing form system.
In Block 340, a determination is made whether the trusses need to be raised or lowered in accordance with one or more embodiments. For example, the vertical structure may be built or repaired in sections based on a required height needed such that the trusses are at the vertical position on the plurality of support towers to build or repair the vertical structure. If the answer to the vertical structure needing being raised or lowered is yes (e.g., building or repairing the vertical structure at other vertical positions), the flowchart will proceed to Block 350. In Block 350, the trusses may be unlocked (e.g., unbolting the arm) and will go back to the Block 300 to repeat the previously mentioned Blocks (300-340). In some embodiments, a position of the trusses may be adjusted in Block 355 prior to returning to the Block 300 from the Block 350. For example, the trusses alignment with respect to the plurality of support towers may be adjusted or leveled such that the trusses are ready to be vertically moved.
However, if the answer to whether the trusses need to be raised or lowered is no, the flowchart will proceed to Block 360. In Block 360, the vertical position of trusses may be maintained in accordance with one or more embodiments. For example, the vertical position is maintained to allow workers to perform operations on the vertical structures. It is further envisioned that the independent self-climbing form system may also be prepared for disassembly in Block 360.
In one or more embodiments, the flowchart of FIG. 3 allows for a worker to manual operate controls of the independent self-climbing form system or the computer system may automatically operate the independent self-climbing form system. With the trusses operationally connected to the plurality of support towers, any height of the vertical structures may be accessible. For example, the independent self-climbing form system may help workers repair or build the vertical structures without having to anchor into the vertical structures. One skilled in the art will appreciate how utilizing the independent self-climbing form systems disclosed herein allow for fast and quick access to vertical structures of all shapes and sizes.
With respect to the embodiments discussed above in the Figures illustrating various views of the independent self-climbing form system (100), various procedures may be automated to provide faster delivery time in comparison to manual methods for preparing and transmitting building operations. For example, a movement of the trusses may be programmed to automatically occur based on a height of the vertical structure. Moreover, the platforms extending or retracting may be programmed to automatically occur based on a shape and size of the vertical structure or based on a movement of the trusses, for example.
Implementations herein for operating the independent self-climbing form system (100) may be implemented on a computing system coupled to a controller. Any combination of mobile, desktop, server, router, switch, embedded device, or other types of hardware may be used with the emulsion generating system (100, 200, 300). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the computing system 400 may include one or more computer processors 402, non-persistent storage 404 (e.g., volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM), cache memory), persistent storage 406 (e.g., a hard disk, an optical drive such as a compact disk (CD) drive or digital versatile disk (DVD) drive, a flash memory, etc.), a communication interface 412 (e.g., Bluetooth interface, infrared interface, network interface, optical interface, etc.), and numerous other elements and functionalities. It is further envisioned that software instructions in a form of computer readable program code to perform embodiments of the disclosure may be stored, in whole or in part, temporarily or permanently, on a non-transitory computer readable medium such as a CD, DVD, storage device, a diskette, a tape, flash memory, physical memory, or any other computer readable storage medium. For example, the software instructions may correspond to computer readable program code that, when executed by a processor(s), is configured to perform one or more embodiments of the disclosure.
The computing system 400 may also include one or more input devices 410, such as a touchscreen, keyboard, mouse, microphone, touchpad, electronic pen, or any other type of input device. Additionally, the computing system 400 may include one or more output devices 408, such as a screen (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display, touchscreen, cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor, projector, or other display device), a printer, external storage, or any other output device. One or more of the output devices may be the same or different from the input device(s). The input and output device(s) may be locally or remotely connected to the computer processor(s) 402, non-persistent storage 404, and persistent storage 406. Many different types of computing systems exist, and the aforementioned input and output device(s) may take other forms.
The computing system 400 of FIG. 4 may include functionality to present raw and/or processed data, such as results of comparisons and other processing. For example, presenting data may be accomplished through various presenting methods. Specifically, data may be presented through a user interface provided by a computing device. The user interface may include a GUI that displays information on a display device, such as a computer monitor or a touchscreen on a handheld computer device. The GUI may include various GUI widgets that organize what data is shown as well as how data is presented to a user. Furthermore, the GUI may present data directly to the user, e.g., data presented as actual data values through text, or rendered by the computing device into a visual representation of the data, such as through visualizing a data model. For example, a GUI may first obtain a notification from a software application requesting that a particular data object be presented within the GUI. Next, the GUI may determine a data object type associated with the particular data object, e.g., by obtaining data from a data attribute within the data object that identifies the data object type. Then, the GUI may determine any rules designated for displaying that data object type, e.g., rules specified by a software framework for a data object class or according to any local parameters defined by the GUI for presenting that data object type. Finally, the GUI may obtain data values from the particular data object and render a visual representation of the data values within a display device according to the designated rules for that data object type.
Data may also be presented through various audio methods. In particular, data may be rendered into an audio format and presented as sound through one or more speakers operably connected to a computing device. Data may also be presented to a user through haptic methods. For example, haptic methods may include vibrations or other physical signals generated by the computing system. For example, data may be presented to a user using a vibration generated by a handheld computer device with a predefined duration and intensity of the vibration to communicate the data.
As described above, embodiments herein are directed toward an independent self-climbing form system that may be used to erect, build, repair, or otherwise work on a structure. The independent self-climbing form system may be used in a manner that minimizes or eliminates the need to anchor to or otherwise interact with the structure, other than to perform the desired work. Additionally, the moving internal platforms provided at one or multiple levels may allow for unique shaped structures to be accommodated. Further, the independent self-climbing form system may be altered in height in real time corresponding to a height of the structure being worked such that the height of the independent self-climbing form system is not fixed. Furthermore, the independent self-climbing form system may include housing for workers to remain on site during down time to allow for easy and quick startup.
While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art, having benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate that other embodiments can be devised which do not depart from the scope of the invention as disclosed herein. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be limited only by the attached claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An independent self-climbing form system, comprising:

a plurality of support towers;

at least two trusses connected to the plurality of support towers, wherein the trusses are spaced apart from each other;

one or more platforms formed within a perimeter delimited by the at least two trusses, wherein the at least one or more platforms are configured to extend or retract within the perimeter; and

screw jacks disposed at each connection point of the at least two trusses on the plurality of support towers, wherein the screw jacks are configured to vertically move the at least two trusses up and down the plurality of support towers.

2. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 1, wherein each of the support towers of the plurality of support towers is formed from a plurality of tower segments stacked on top of each other.

3. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 1, further comprising an end truss disposed at ends of the at least two trusses to connect the at least two trusses together.

4. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 3, wherein a peripheral edge of the at least two trusses and the end trusses form the perimeter.

5. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 3, further comprising one or more housings disposed on the end trusses.

6. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 1, wherein the one or more platforms are a work platform.

7. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 6, wherein the work platform is a multi-level deck platform.

8. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 1, wherein the screw jacks comprise a motor, a gearbox, and a threaded rod.

9. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 8, further comprising a locking device configured lock the trusses at a vertical position on the plurality of support towers.

10. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 8, further comprising an anti-rotational device disposed on the threaded rod.

11. The independent self-climbing form system of claim 1, further comprising controls and a computer system disposed on the trusses to manually and/or automatically operate the independent self-climbing form system.

12. A method for installing an independent self-climbing form system at a site, comprising:

erecting a plurality of support towers at the site;

connecting at least two trusses to the plurality of support towers, wherein the trusses are spaced apart from each other;

forming at least one or more platforms within a perimeter delimited by the at least two trusses; and

providing screw jacks at each connection point of the at least two trusses on the plurality of support towers.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising stacking and coupling a plurality of tower segments on top of each other to increase a height of the plurality of support towers.

14. The method of claim 12, further comprising providing an end truss at ends of the at least two trusses to connect the at least two trusses together.

15. The method of claim 12, further comprising installing wood planks or plywood or composite boards or metal grate flooring on the trusses, the platforms, and the end trusses to form walkways.

16. A method for using an independent self-climbing form system to build a vertical structure, comprising:

vertically moving at least two trusses up or down a plurality of support towers with a screw jacks at each connection point between the at least two trusses and the plurality of support towers;

locking the at least two trusses at a vertical position to the plurality of support towers to access the vertical structure; and

extending or retracting at least one or more platforms connected to the at least two trusses around the vertical structure.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the vertically moving of the at least two trusses comprises moving the screw jacks up a threaded rod.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the locking of the at least two trusses comprises removably bolting an arm at an end of the threaded rod to a rigid framework of the plurality of support towers.

19. The method of claim 16, further comprising leveling each of the at least two trusses at a same height on the plurality of support towers.

20. The method of claim 16, further comprising providing a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions, executable by a processor, wherein the instructions comprising functionality to control the independent self-climbing form system.