WO1989007183A1

WO1989007183A1 - A scaffold platform and an assembly kit for a scaffold platform

Info

Publication number: WO1989007183A1
Application number: PCT/GB1989/000060
Authority: WO
Inventors: George Molyneux
Original assignee: Precision Group Limited
Priority date: 1988-01-26
Filing date: 1989-01-24
Publication date: 1989-08-10
Also published as: AU3037689A

Abstract

The invention provides an assembly kit which is capable of being assembled into a variety of working configurations, in each of which it provides either a scaffold platform or some kind of working bench. The kit is also capable of assembling into a flat pack configuration. The kit includes a platform (14) and a pair of end frames (10, 12) with a simple releasable push-in interconnection between the end frames and the platform there being also a rigid brace member (16) which also has simple releasable push-in interconnection with the two end frames, when they are assembled to the platform, from outside the width of the end frames, and in a manner which produces a diagonal structure. The arrangement of the end frames (10, 12) also permits each end frame to be connected to the platform (14) at two or more vertically spaced positions. Further, it permits the assembly of a scaffold platform which includes one or more triangular structures.

Description

A SCAFFOLD PLATFORM AND AN ASSEMBLY KIT FOR A SCAFFOLD PLATFORM

The present invention relates to scaffold platforms, which can be used for a very wide range of activities, many of which are concerned with structural and decorating work. A scaffold platform in accordance with the invention provides a safe working platform on which a person can stand, or on which a step ladder or straight ladder can stand. However, as will hereinafter appear, the scaffold platform has other uses than that of supporting a workman; it can for instance, be used to provide a bench or work table. The expression "scaffold platform" is, throughtout this specification, to be given a very broad interpretation so as to include any platform or working surface which is supported above and from the floor or ground.

The uses mentioned above all require a very rigid construction to give adequate safety in the case where a person or ladder is supported, or to resist applied loads, when the apparatus is used as a bench. It is a feature of the invention that it provides a high degree is, rigidity.

Desirable characteristics of scaffold platforms include portability, ease of storage and convertability between different working modes and the present invention aims to satisfy some or all of these desiderata by providing an assembly kit which:- in its dismantled but packaged state is readily portable, and takes up little storage space and has a configuration which can be easily changed to permit it to be used in a plurality of modes. Other advantages of the assembly kit and the scaffold platform which can be produced from it will appear herinafter.

According to a first aspect of the invention, an assembly kit for making up into a scaffold platform comprises a platform; a pair of end frames; the platform and end frames having simple push-in inter-connection such that, when assembled the end frames provide upright supports for the platform; each end frame being adapted to be connected to the platform at two or more vertically-spaced positions in each of which the platform is substantially horizontal, and a rigid brace member having inter-connection with the two end frames by simple releasable push-in inter-connection from outside the width of each end frame, the brace member being of such a length that in the assembled condition, it provides a diagonal strut between the end frames which lies outside the space between the end frames.

Some of the connections required to assemble to scaffold platform are of a simple releasable push-in fit type. Througout this specification, the expression "simple push-in fit" or "simple push-in inter-connection is used to describe a physical connection which can be achieved by movement of a male element into a female element by a rectilinear motion, without superimposed angular motion as is required in, for example, screw or bayonet-type connections. It is however to be understood that the expression "push-in fit" is not restricted to connections in which the female element completely surrounds the male element, since in one of its preferred forms, the invention includes a connection in which the female element provides a slot open on one side to receive the male element. As will be apparent the kit can be assembled to a scaffold platform which forms another aspect of the invention, and having a substantially horizontal platform; a pair of end frames each having simple releasable push-in inter-connection with the platform and providing upright supports for the platform; and a rigid brace member having simple releasable push-in inter¬ connection with the two end frames from outside the width of each end frame, the brace member providing a diagonal strut between the end frames which lies outside the space between the end frames, each end frame being adapted to be connected to the platform at two or more vertically spaced positions.

It will be apparent that the assembly of the kit into the scaffold platform is extremely simple, since all the connections can be effected by the simple push-in movements. On the other hand, the assembled scaffold platform has very good rigidity - which is a primary desideratum, because the basic platform and support frame assembly is braced by the diagonal strut.

According to a preferred feature of the invention, each end frame is provided with push-in inter-connection locations for the brace member at least one of which is at the same level as a provision on that end frame for simple releasable push-in inter-connection with the platform, so that the brace member and platform can be connected to the end frames in such a way that the platform, one of the end frames and the brace form a triangular structure.

The kit may have two substantially identical brace members so.that two diagonal strut structures can be formed in the assembled scaffold platform. In one mode of use, both the end frames extend from the same side of the platform and the brace members cross each other (ie., one brace slopes downwardly to the left and the other slopes downwardly to the right) . In an alternative mode of use, the two end frames extend from opposite sides of the platform and the two diagonal strut structures are formed one above and one below the platform.

It is further preferred that the vertically spaced positions which each end frame can be connected to the platform are at different distances from the mid- height position of the end frame so that for any assembled condition, the height of the platform can be changed by inverting the end frames, to a height not provided by the or one of the other assembled conditions.

In the preferred arrangement four brace members are provided so that two strut structures can be formed at each side of the platform.

According to yet another preferred feature of the invention, the end frames and the platform are adpated to be inter-connected by a transverse bar on either an end frame or the platform received as a releasable push-in fit in a transverse socket on the other of the end frame and the platform. In the preferred construction, a transversly extending socket open on the underside is provided on the platform, each end frame being provided with a transverse bar projecting from the inner face of a leg portion of the end frame and being a push-in fit in the transversly extending socket of the platform. Alternatively, the platform may be provided with outwardly open transverse sockets at or near to its ends, each end frame being provided with a transverse bar projecting from the inner face of a leg portion of the end frame and being a releasable push-in fit in one of the transverse sockets of the platform.

A transverse socket on the platform may be provided by a Z angle iron with one of the flanges secured to the underside of the platform, the web forming the bottom of the socket and the other flange and the underside of the platform providing parallel side walls of the socket.

Any of these contructions provides a very simple push-in fit connection between the platform and the end frame, because it is only necessary to press the bar of the end frame into the socket - which is an easy manual operation. Moreover, because the bar and socket connections extend transversly, it can be of such a length that it provides:

1. a relatively tight joint between the platform and the end frame, and

2. resistance to twisting of the end frame relatively to the platform about a vertical axis.

Preferably each end frame is provided with two projecting transverse bars, one at or near its upper end and the other spaced vertically from the bar at the upper and from the bottom end of the frame. It will be appreciated that it is possible to connect an end frame to the platform using either of the two bars on the end frame. Hence, it is possible to support the platform at two different heights relatively to the bottom of the end frame (ie., two different heights from the ground or floor). However, because of the asymetrical spacing of the bars, by inverting the end frames, two other platform heights are available, so that a total of four platform heights is achieved by using two bars on each end of the frame. It will be appreciated, that even more possible platform heights could be obtained if three or more transverse bars were provided on each end frame.

It is further preferred that each end frame has two legs which extend above the top transverse bar and below the bottom transverse bar, the platform extending beyond its sockets to receive the transverse bars, the width of the platform being equal to the spacing between the legs of each end frame so that the extension beyond each socket locates between the legs of the end frame. This prevents lateral movement of the platform relatively to the end frames.

The foregoing description of alternative platform height positions assumes that the two end frames both extend entirely or mainly below or above the platform. However, the construction lends itself to assembly in a variety of alternative modes. For instance, one end frame may extend entirely below and the other entirely above the platform. This will provide a mode in which the platform can be supported from two different ground or floor levels vertically spaced by the height of one end frame. In an alternative mode, one end frame may extend entirely below the platform and the other partly below and partly above the platform (using the bar spaced from its nearest end as the connection with the platform) . Then, the platform is adapted to be supported from ground or floor levels vertically spaced by the difference between the full height of an end frame and the height of the bar which is spaced from its nearest end. Where the end frames extend mainly above and below the platform, the two brace members must be used to form diagonal strut structures above and below the platform, because each brace member is of such an effective length that it may form the hypotenuse of a right-angled triangle of which one of the other sides is formed by the platform and the other side is formed by the part of an end frame between its two transverse bars.

According to yet another preferred feature of the invention, each end of each transverse bar is open to receive as a releasable push-in fit spigot provided at or near each end of each brace member. This arrangement provides for a very simple manual assembly of the brace member(s) to the end frames - which will at that stage be assembled to the platform - because it is only necessary to press the two spigots of a brace member into the open ends of the two appropriate transverse bars. Indeed, since each transverse bar is adapted to take part in inter-connection with the platform, the provision for releasable push-in fit inter-connection with the brace members means that each transverse bar is adapted to take part in inter-connection with both the platform and a brace member. It will now become apparent how the kit assembles very simply into a rigid scaffold platform. The end frames are push fitted into the platform itself and at that stage the structure is relatively unstable. The brace members are then push fitted between the end frames, producing the diagonal strut or triangular structures and giving the assembly a high degree of stability.

In the preferred construction, the end frames are made of metal and the transverse bars comprise metal tube. Tubular bars automatically provide the open ends required for the spigots on the brace members. The spigots on the brace members may be square tubes adapted to be push-in fits in the square tube transverse bars, but if these spigots were fixed to the brace members, then they would have to be angled relatively to their braces, because of the angular disposition of the braces relatively to the platform in the assembled condition. In one construction therefore, each spigot on the braces is cylindrical and its outside diameter is a releasable push-in fit in the square tube transverse bars. In an alternative and preferred construction, each spigot on the brace member is of square cross section, and is able to turn about its own longitudinal axis on the brace member thereby allowing the brace to turn about its inter-connection with one of the end frames.

According to another preferred feature of the invention, the kit includes a plurality of pins and at least some of the push-in inter-connections are formed with aligned pairs of holes in the inter-connecting components, each pair of aligned holes being adapted to receive one of the pins to prevent accidental disconnection of the components after the pin has been fitted. In a preferred construction, each spigot is made of square cross section tube and each of the transverse bars on the end frame is also square cross section tube, there being holes formed through each spigot and each transverse bar from side-to-side in positions such that the holes in the walls of each spigot align with holes in the transverse bar when the spigot is inserted into the bar, each spigot being provided with a pair of outwardly resiliently loaded pins projecting through the holes in its walls, but held captive in the spigot, these pins providing snap-in connection between the spigot and one end of a transverse bar. Preferably, the pair of pins are provided on a common C shaped leaf spring, which fits inside the spigot and serves both to load the pins and to retain them in the spigot. Instead of using pins to ensure the push-in connections, screw and nut fastenings may be used. In partucular the platform may be secured to the end frames by countersunk headed screws passing through the platform and through the transverse bars on which the platform is located, there being a wing nut on the underside of each transverse bar engaging on a protruding portion of the screw.

According to yet another preferred feature of the invention, the transverse bars on the end frames are of square cross section, so that they are adapted for simple push-in inter-connection with the sockets of the platform when the end frame is lying parallel with and closely adjacent to the underside of the platform and with its legs lying alongside the longitudinal edges of the platform. This allows the end frames to be packed very neatly against the platform, which is both space saving and permits the kit to be marketed in a flat-pack condition.

It is further preferred that the assembly kit includes two or more feet adapted for simple push-in inter-conection with the end frames. The feet provide additional stability for the assembled platform, and this will be of particular importance where loads can be expected to be applied to the assembled platform having horizontal components - as for example when the assembeld platform is used as a work bench.

According to a still further preferred feature, the assembly kit includes two or more wheels or castors adapted for simple push-in inter-connection with the end frames. ^■10-

Each end frame preferably has vertical legs formed with open bottom ends to receive push-in fittings such as the feet and/or wheels or castors. Moreover, each end frame preferably has vertical legs formed with open top ends to receive attachments (eg., tools, vices paint cans, trays or even larger items such as a barbeque) . In the preferred construction, the vertical legs of the end frame are formed from metal tube, the top and bottom ends being left open. In its simplest and preferred form, and end frame is made of square cross section metal tube and comprises two laterally spaced vertical legs and two transverse bars one at the tops of the legs and the other spaced above the bottoms of the legs, but it is preferred to have four transverse bars on each end frame.

The platform may be formed in a variety of ways, since it is simply required to provide a rigid surface on which a person can stand. It is preferred to form it from a solid piece of timber. It should be understood however that the platform could be formed in metal, for example expanded metal supported on a rigid frame or metal channels welded together in side-by-side arrangement. If solid metal is employed for the platform it is preferably alumimium or aluminium alloy in order to keep the weight of the assembly kit and the assembled scaffold platform to a minimum.

A scaffold platform in accordance with the second aspect of the invention may include any of the optional or preferred features of the assembly kit referred to previously.

The invention will be better understood from the following description of an assembly kit, the manner in which it can be assembled in a variety of modes to provide differing forms of scaffold platform, and various attachments which can be used in conjunction with the assembled scaffold platform, which are all described her by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:-

Figure 1 is a persepective front view of an assembled bench,

Figure 2 is a detailed prespective view of one end of a brace member,

Figure 3 is an exploded view partly in section showing a method of forming a connection between a brace member and a horizontal bar,

Figure 4 is a detailed view in section showing the assembly of the brace member and a horizontal bar,

Figure 5 is a detail exploded view, showing part of a platform and part of an end frame to illustrate the method by which these are connected,

Figure 6 is a detail view showing the platform and end frame in the connected position,

Figure 7 is a detail sectional view through the platform and a horizontal member of an end frame showing the method of securing the platform and end frame in the assembled condition,

Figure 8 is a front view of the assembled scaffold platform showing one assembly in full lines, and alternative positions for the platform in chain dotted lines,

Figure 9 is a view similar to Figure 8, showing one configuration in full lines, and alternative locations for the platform in chain dotted lines, with the end frames in the inverted position,

Figure 10 is a perspective view illustrating a possible assembly of the scaffold platform for use in a staircase,

Figure 11 illustrates another assembly of the scaffold platform, showing the fitting of a handrail,

Figure 12 illustrates another possible assembly, particuarly for use on a staircase,

Figure 13 is a detail view showing the fitting of an extension piece to one of the end frames,

Figure 14 illustrates the fitting of a bench vice to the scaffold bench when used as a bench, and

Figure 15 illustrates somewhat diagramatically, the manner in the major components of the kit can be assembled into a flat-pack configuration.

In Figure 1, there is illustrated an assembled work bench, which is constructed from the various kit components which will now be described in detail. The essential components are a pair of end frames 10 and 12, a platform 14, a set of four brace members 16, and, in this particular configuration, a handrail 18.

Each of the end frames 10 and 12 is made from square cross section metal tube, and comprises a pair of vertical leg members 20 and 22, bridged by a series of four transverse horizontal bars 24, 26, 28 and 30, which are welded to the inside faces of the leg members 20 and 22. It is a significant feature of the construction, that the transverse horizontal bars project from the inside faces of the vertical members 20 and 22. It will be appreciated, that the transverse bars are all of equal length, and that they determine the width of the end frames. Moreover, the open ends of each of the transverse horizontal bars are aligned with the outer faces of the vertical members 20 and 22. It will be noted, that whereas the bar 24 is closely adjacent to one end of the legs 20 and 22 (the top end in the orientation illustrated in Figure l), the transverse bar 30 (which as illustrated in Figure l is at the lower end) is spaced some distance from the adjacent lower ends of the legs 20 and 22. Each of the transverse bars 24, 26, 28 and 30 is spaced equidistant from adjacent bars. The assymetrical arrangement of the transverse bars with respect to the legs 20 and 22 is an important feature of the invention. In a specific embodiment, which is mentioned purely by way of example, the square cross section tube of which the end frames 10 and 12 are constructed is 32mm square.

The platform 14 is a substantially flat timber platform of adequate strength to support the weight of a person standing on it, and its length determines the length of the scaffold platform in the assembled condition. The width of the platform 14 is such that it just fills the width between the legs 20 and 22 of one of the end frames 10 and 12 and its thickness is approximately equal to the vertical distance between the top of the bar 24 and the top end of the legs 22 and 24. On its underside, the platform 14 is provided with two transverse metal channels 32 and 34 (see Figures 5 and 6) each of thes# channels being open on the underside, and secured to the platform 14 by screws (not shown) , and each channel 32 or 34 being located closely adjacent to a respective end of the platform 14. The width of each channel 32 or 34 between its flanges, is approximately the same as the width of one of the transverse horizontal bars 24, 26, 28 and 30 of the end frames 10 and 12, so that it is possible to effect a connection between the platform 14 and one of the end frames 10 and 12, by simply lowering one of the channels 32 or 34 on to one of the transverse bars of the end frame. The fit between the transverse bars and the channels should be such that the channel can be pressed on to one of the bars by hand, without too much difficulty, and it should also be possible to release the platform from the end frame, by 1i ing the platform away from the transverse bar on which it has been located.

An arrangement of this kind, in which the open bottomed channel 32 for example can be fitted on to and removed from the transverse bar 24 is referred to in the specification as a simple push-in fit, because it does not require any movement other than the simple rectilinear motion to effect the connection and disconnection of the two parts. Part of the platform 14 itself abuts against the inside faces of the legs 20 and 22 in the assembled condition illustrated in Figure 6, and this provides lateral location of the platform 14 relatively to the end frame. The engagement of channel 32 on the transverse beam 24 provides longitudinal location of the platform on the end frame, and it also prevents twisting of the platform about a vertical axis relatively to the end frame.

Each of the brace members 16 is made of pressed steel plate and as illustrated in Figure 2, throughout the greater part of its length, is of somewhat bowed cross section to give strength in the longitudinal direction. Near to each end, each brace member 16 has a flattened end portion 36, and a spigot 38 is pivoted to the flattened end portion 36, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3. Each spigot comprises a square cross section metal block 40 formed with a large diameter blind bore 42, (so that it is in effect a square tube) one end of the spigot having an axle 44 which passes through a hole formed in the flattened end portion 36 of the brace member 16, there being a head 46 provided on the axle, in order to secure the spigot 38 to the brace member 16. Because the axle 44 is able to turn in the flattened end portion of the brace member, the spigot is able to turn as indicated by the arrow A in Figure 2.

A pair of part-spherical ended pins 48 is provided, each of these pins being secured to an arcuate or C-shaped leaf spring 50, and extending through holes 52 formed in the walls of the spigot block 40. The pins 48 are fitted in the spigot block, by pressing them towards each other, thereby compressing the leaf spring 50, until the pins are near enough together to enter the bore 42. the pins are then pushed along the bore 42, until they are aligned with their respective holes 52, whereupon they spring outwardly under the influence of the leaf spring 50, to the position indicated in Figure 3.

Each of the transverse bars 24, 26, 28 and 30 of each end frame of the kit, is formed adjacent to each of its ends, with a pair of aligned holes 54 and 56 (see Figures 3 and 4). The location of these holes relatively to the adjacent end of the transvese bar is such, that it is possible to effect a connection between one of the brace members 16 and one of the bars, by the simple push- in method illustrated in Figures 3 and 4. For this purpose, the outside dimensions of each spigot block 40 are such, that the block is a sliding fit in one of the transverse bars such as 24. Hence, it is possible to push each spigot into the end of any one of the transverse bars. In order to effect the connection however, it is necessary to press the pins 48 towards each other, against the action of the leaf spring 50, until the ends of the pins are flush with the outer surfaces of the spigot block 40. It is then possible to push the block 40 further into the transverse bar 24 with the part spherical ends of the pins 48 engaging against inside opposite faces of the bar 24. When the pins become aligned with the holes 54 and 56 in the transverse bar, they again spring outwardly under the influence of the leaf sprng 50, into engagement with the holes 54 and 56. The disposition of the pins 48 relatively to the flattened portion 36 of the brace member 16 and the corresponding location of the holes 54 and 56 relatively to the end of the bar 24 is such that, when the pins engage in the holes 54 and 56 as shown in Figure 4, the flattened end portion 36 of the brace member 16 is in engagement with the end of the bar 24.

It is important to note that the spigot 38 is able to turn about its axle 44, because this means that each of the brace members 16 is able to turn about the connection with one of the transverse bars 24, 26, 28 and 30 during the assembly of the bench from the kit of parts. It will be apreciated, that once the connection has been made as illustrated in Figure 4, the brace member 16 becomes captive on the end frame to which it has been connected, until the pins 48 are pressed inwardly far enough to allow the spigot 38 to be extracted from the interior of the bar 24 by pulling the brace member away from that bar. Thus, there is a simple releasable push-in inter-connection between each of the brace members 16 and each of the transverse bars on the end frames. This inter-connection is achieved mainly by a simple rectilinear motion pushing the spigot 38 into the end of the transverse bar, and similarly, release of the brace member from the end frame is achieved essentially by a simple rectilinear extraction motion.

It is to be understood, that the spring loaded pin arrangement is only one method of securing the brace members to the end frames. In an alternative, the pin members 48 and their connecting leaf spring 50 are omitted, and a straight pin is provided which can be pushed through the aligned holes 52, 54 and 56, when the spigot has been pushed into the end of the transverse bar 24. Such a straight pin is perferably provided with a head, in order to prevent it falling through the aligned holes and it is also preferred that it is somewhat longer than the depth of the transverse members 24, so that it projects on the underside of that member when fitted, thereby providing a means of pushing it upwardly to start the release of the pin from the aligned holes in the spigot and transverse bar.

The hand rail 18 simply comprises a longitudinal bar 60 and a pair of vertical legs 62 and 64 which are simply pivoted near their upper ends to positions close to the ends of the longitudinal bar 60 as illustrated in Figure 1. The legs 62 and 64 are formed of square cross section steel tube, of the same outside dimensions as the spigots 38, so that they are a sliding fit in the top ends of the legs 20 and 22 of the end frames 10 and 12. Near to their lower ends, the legs 62 and 64 may be fitted with spring loaded part spherical ended pins similar to the pins 48 illustrated in Figures 2, 3 and 4, for engagement in any of the holes 54 and 56 provided in the transverse bars, or some equivalent holes formed adjacent to the top and bottom ends of the legs 20 and 22 of the end frames 10 and 12. Alternatively, the legs 62 and 64 may simply be formed with aligned pairs of holes near to their lower ends, so that straight pins can be passed through aligned holes in the ends of the legs 20 and 22 or the aligned hies 54 and 56 near to the ends of the transverse bars and through the aligned holes in the legs 60 and 62, when the latter are inserted into either the legs or the transverse bars of the end frames 10 and 12. It will be appreciated, that the spacing between the pivotal conections between the longitudinal member 60 and the legs 60 and 62 of the hand rail 18 is such, that when the legs 62 and 64 are inserted into the top ends of legs 20 and 22 of the end frames (as illiustrated in Figure 1) the legs 62 and 64 form vertical extensions of the legs 20 and 22, and the longitudinal member 60 takes up a horizontal dispostion.

It will be apparent from the foregoing description of the various essential components, how the bench which is illustrated in Figure 1, can be easily assembled from the kit of components. First, the channels 32 and 34 at the ends of the platform 14 are lowered on to the top transverse bars 24 of the end frames 10 and 12, with those end frames in the vertical position. This attaches the platform to the ends frames, but at this stage, the structure is very unstable. One of the brace mebmers 16 is connected by its spigot 38 at one end, into the front end of the transverse bar 26. It is an important feature of the invention, that this connection is effected from the outside of the frame, and even when the brace member has been fully connected to the end frame, it causes no obstruction within the width of that end frame.

The brace member 16 which has been thus connected at one end to the transverse bar 26 of the frame 10, is then turned about its pivotal connection with the transverse bar 26, to bring its other end into a postion where it can be similarly connected to the front end of the transverse bar 30 on the end frame 12. It will be observed, that the brace member 16 is thus connected to the lowest transverse bar 30 on the end frame 12, but to the transverse bar 26 which is next to the top transverse bar on the end frame 10. Another way of describing this. is that if one regards the transverse bars 24, 26, 28 and 30 as steps, then one end of the brace member 16 is two steps higher than the other.

At this stage, with only a single brace member 16 fitted, the structure has already achieved a certain stability. This is because that structure now includes besides the longitudinal element provided by the platform 14 and the vertical elements provided by the end frames 10 and 12, a diagonal strut provided by the brace member 16. In fact, the brace member 16 provides both tie and strut functions in the structure which is being formed.

A second brace member 16 is then fitted to the front of the structure, but in this case, its right-hand end is fitted to the transverse bar 26 on the end frame 12, and its left-hand end is connected to the transverse bar 30 on the end frame 10. This is the reverse of the first brace member 16, and produces cross brace members. This then gives the structure a high drgree of stability.

It should be mentioned here, that two of the brace members 16 have their spigots 38 on the inside face with respect to the bowed cross section of the brace member, and the other two have their spigots 38 on the outside face with respect to the bowed cross section. In other words, referring to Figure 2, two of the brace members 16 have their spigots 38 on the opposite side of the flattened end 38 to that illustrated. In forming the crossed brace members at the front side of the structure, one of these members will be of the type with the spigots on the inside and the other of the type with the spigots on the outside, so that one of the brace members is bowed outwardly, and the other inwardly.

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The other two brace members 16 are then fitted to the rear side of the structure, in the equivalent positions to the brace members which have been fitted to the front of the structure. Once all four brace members have been fitted, the structure becomes extremely rigid.

If necessary the hand rail 18 can then be fitted by introducing the bottom ends of the legs 62 and 64 into the top ends of the legs 22 and 20 at the rear of the structure. There is thus provided a suitable work bench, and if the hand rail 18 is fitted, it can be used to suspend tools or other equipment, or alternatively, a back board itself provided with attachments for various tools can e suspended from the longitudinal bar 60 of the hand rail. It will also be understood, that in this configuration, the bench can be used as a scaffold platform, and although steps may be used to ascend the platform, it is possible to use the transverse bars of the end frames as steps.

Figure 1 also illustrates the provision of castors 66 at the bottom ends of the legs 20 and 22 of the ends frames 10 and 12. Each of these castors is provided with a short spigot similar to one of the spigots 38, so that it can be connected into the lower end of one of the legs in the same way that the end of one of the brace members can be connected into one of the tansverse bars. As an alternative to castors, feet provided with similar attachment spigots may be fitted. In one arrangement, castors are fitted to one of the end frames 10 or 12, and feet to the other end frame. This provides a good degree of stability to the assembly when it is used as a bench, but it also enables it to be easily moved from one place to another by lifting the end with the feet and rolling it on the castors on the other end .

Although the engagement of the channels 32 and 34 on the transverse bars may be sufficient to hold the platform on the support structure, for some purposes it may be desirable to secure the platform. To this end, the platform is formed with countersunk holes 94 (see Figure 7) which pass through each of the channels 32 and 34. A countersunk headed screw 92 can be passed through the hole 94 and through a hole in the transverse bar located in the channel, the assembly being secured by a wing nut 96.

Turning now to Figure 8, there are illustrated various configurations which can be achieved, using the two ends frames 10 and 12, the platform 14, and the four brace members 16. In Figure 8, the platform 14 is shown in full lines in the top position, which is the position illustrated in Figure 1, where the channels 32 and 34 are fitted on to the transverse bars 24 of the end frames 10 and 12 - these transvese bars 24 being closely adjacent to the top ends of the end frames 10 and 12. However, instead of the brace members 16 being connected between the lowest transverse bars 30 and the transverse bars 26 two steps up from the bars 30 (which is illustrated in Figure in chain dotted lines) the brace members are connected between the transverse bars 28 and the transverse bars 24, that is to say the top bars 24 and the bars two steps below these top bars. It is an advantage of the construction shown in full lines in Figure 8, that the platform 14, part of each end frame, and one of the brace members 16 provides a triangular structure, which of course is extremely rigid. There are of course two such triangular structures at each side of the bench when all four brace members 16 are fitted. Figure 8 also illustrates, that with the brace members either in the position illustrated in full lines in Figure 1 or in the position illustrated in full lines in Figure 8, it is possible to fit the platform at three lower levels than the top level, as indicated by chain dotted lines at 14a_, 14b and 14£. At 14a_ for example, the channels 32 and 34 are fitted on to the transverse bars 26, whilst at 14£, they are fitted on to the transverse bars 30. This is a useful feature of the invention, because, particularly when working around domestic property, it is frequently required to provide a working platform to stand on at a level lower than that which would be provided in the bench top position at 14.

In Figure 9, there are illustrated various structures, which can be formed with the end frames 10 and 12 inverted from the position shown in Figures 1 and 8. It is still possible to utilize the brace members 16 in precisely the same way as has previously been described, and Figure 9 shows that they can be fitted in two alternative positions. However, τ_$ith the end frames in this position, then the platform 14 can be lowered on to the transverse members 24, 26, 28 or 30, but they will engage with what was previously the undersides of those transverse members. Moreover, it will be noted that the top position is somewhat lower than the top position in Figure 8, because the transverse bars 30 are disposed some distance below what are then the top ends of the legs of the end frames. Similarly, the positions 14d_, 14e and 14f which can be used for the platform 14 are each somewhat lower then the corresponding position 14a_, 14b and 14c as illustrated in Figure 8. Hence, it is possible to provide the platform 14 at eight different levels utilizing the structure provided by fitting the brace members in either of the positions illustrated in Figures 8 and 9 .

That by no means exhausts the possible configurations which can be constructed from the kit provided by the invention. Indeed, one of the significant advantages of the invention, is the ability to construct a platform, the working surface of which is substantially horizontal, but with the feet at one end at a higher level than the feet at the other end. An extreme instance of this is illustrated in Figure 10.

Before describing that figure however, reference should be made to Figure 13, which illustrates the lower end of one of the end frames 10 to which has been fitted the extension piece 70. This extension piece simply comprises a square cross section metal tube the dimensions of which are such that it is a sliding fit within one of the legs 20 or 22 of one of the end frames. The extension piece 70 is formed with a series of spaced apart holes 72, and a slotted headed bolt 74 can be passed through a hole formed through the lower end of the leg 22, and through any one of the holes 72 in the extension piece 70, in order to determine the extent by which the extension piece 70 projects below the lower ends of the leg 22. The connection can be completed by a nut 76. The lower end of each extension piece 70 is closed by a rubber foot 78.

An alternative form of extension comprises two legs similar to the extension piece 70 joined by a horizontal bar to form a frame.

Reverting now to Figure 10, one of the end frames 10 of the kit is fitted with a pair of extension members 70. The platform 14 is attached by its channel at one end to the transverse bar 24 at the top end of the end frame 10. The other end frame 12 is in the inverted condition, and the platform 14 is connected to the transverse bar 24 of that end frame. This means, that whereas the full extent of the end frame 10 including the extension pieces 70 extends below the platform 14, the full extent of the end frame 12 extends above the platform, 14. One of the brace members 16 at each side is connected between the transverse bar 28 of the inverted end frame 12, and the transverse bar 24 of the upright end frame 10. Thus, the platform 14, the part of the end frame 12 between its transverse bar 24 and its transverse bar 28, and the top brace member 16 for a triangular structure, which of course is very rigid. In addition, the second brace member 16 at that side of the structure is connected between the transverse bar 26 of the inverted frames 12, and the transverse bar 26 of the upright frame 10. The other two brace members 16 are fitted in equivalent positions at the opposite side of the structure.

As shown in Figure 10, this configuration enables the platform to be used with a staircase, and to provide a substantially horizontal working surface on which a person can stand, or on which a stepladder or a ladder can rest. Moreover, as illustrated in Figure 10, whereas one end of the platform 14 is almost resting on one of the steps, the opposite end is supported from a floor level which is vertically displaced from the level of the step on which the inverted frame 12 is resting, by a considerable distance.

Figure 11 illustrates one of the constructions which is shown diagrammatically in Figure 9 , but it also indicates that the upper portions of the brace members 16 -25-

above the platform 14 provide in effect lower guard rails for someone working on the platform, in addition to the support provided by the handrail 18. This is a useful feature when the scaffold is being used by an unskilled person. Figure 11 also illustrates the fitting of rubber feet 80 to the lower ends of the legs of the end frames.

Another configuration which can be achieved with the kit, is illustrated in Figure 12. Here it is assumed that the scaffold is to be used to rest one end frame at floor level, and the other end frame at a somewhat higher level, as represented in this instance by one step above floor level. In this arrangement, both frames 10 and 12 are used in the "inverted" condition ie., the condition illustrated in Figure 9. However, whereas the right-hand end of the platform 14 is attached to the transverse bar 30, the left-hand end of the platform is attached to the transverse bar 28. This means that whereas nearly all the end frame 12 at the right-hand end extends below the platform 14, only the part of the end frame 10 below the transverse bar 28 extends below the platform. In other words, there is one step of the end frames difference between the levels of the end frames relatively to the platform. This means that the left-hand end frame 10 is one step higher than the right-hand end frame 12.

The arrangements shown in Figures 10 and 12 do not exhaust the possible arrangements where the feet are at different levels despite the fact that the platform is horizontal or substantially horizontal. Rather they illustrate possible arrangements of this nature. One difference which should be noted is that whereas in Figure 12, both the brace members at each side are below the platform 14, in the configuration shown in Figure 10, the whole of one brace member 16 is above the platform -26-

and part of the other brace member is above and part below the platform. Arrangements are possible, in which one brace member at each side is above the platform and one is below the platform.

Given the basic bench/scaffold structure, which can be produced from the kit in accordance with the invention, as described with reference to Figures 1 to 8, it is then possible to fit a variety of attachment to the structure, particularly when it is in the bench configuration as shown for example in Figure 1. In Figure 14 for instance, there is illustrated a conventional bench vice 80 which is mounted in a known manner on a base plate 82, for limited turning about a vertical axis, as indicated by the arrow B. The base plate 82 is in this construction provided with a deep ending square cross section spigot 84, which is a close fit in one of the metal tubes which constitutes the legs 20 and 22 or the transverse bars 24, 26, 28 and 30 of the end frames 10 and 12. In Figure 14, this spigot 84 is shown fitted into the top end of a leg 20. The spigot 84 is formed with a hole which can be aligned with holes 86 formed in the top end of the leg 20, so that a pin (not shown) or a bolt, can be fitted through the holes 86 and the through the hole in the spigot 84, as a means of securing the spigot, and therefore the bench vice against vertical motion relatively to the leg 20. It is therefore possible to fit a bench vice 80 in any one of four positions, at each of the corners of the platform 14. Moreover, in each of these positions, the orientation of the bench vice 80 can be adjusted, by turning it about its pivot on the base plate 82.

It is also possible however, to fit the spigot 84 into the end of one of the transverse bars 24, 26, 28 or - 27 -

30, so that the vice is then able to be turned in the direction of the arrow B, about a horizontal axis. This therefore provides a number of alternative positions for the bench vice, which are not normally available on a conventional bench.

It will be appreciated, that the bench vice 80 is only one of a number of attachments which could be provided for fitting to the bench/scaffold. Provided such devices are formed with a spigot equivalent to the spigot 84, they can be fitted into the tops of the legs 20 and 22 or into one of the ends of each of the transverse bars 24, 26, 28 and 30. By way of example, a barbecue may be formed with extension arms which have spigots at their ends, for fitting into the top ends of the legs 20 and 22 on one of the end frames. The barbecue can therefore be suspended cantilever fashion from the top end of the bench, leaving the surface provided by the platform free for use as a work top or serving area. As an alternative to providing the barbecue with extension arms fitted with vertically deep ending spigots, it could be provided with a channel open on its underside, similar to one of the channels 32 and 34, so that it can be fitted on to the transverse bar 36.

One of the advantages of the kit in accordance with the invention, is that it can readily be dismantled from the assembled condition, and re-assembled in the flat pack condition for storage and transport. Before describing how this is carried out, it is to be noted that there is a Z angle iron 88 secured to the underside of the platform 14 at a position intermediate the channels 32 and 34. This provides in effect a pocket 90 open along one side of the angle iron 88 between the underside of the platform 14, and the bottom flange of the angle iron. The spacing between this pocket 90 and the channel 34, is equal to the spacing between the top and bottom bars 24 and 30 of one of the end frames. The bottom flange of the Z angle iron is bent away from the underside of the platform slightly to open-up the mouth of the packet 90.

Turning now to Figure 15, in order to assemble the components in the flat pack condition, the platform 14 is first laid on a preparation surface, with its channels 32 and 34 on the upper side. One of the end frames 10 is then laid, with its bottom transverse bar 30 lying in the channel 32, and with its legs 20 and 22 alongside the longitudinal edges of the platform 14. If the thickness of the platform 14 is slightly less than the thickness of the legs 20 and 22, then this provides a neat arrangement, because the thickness of the platform 14 is accommodated within the depth of the end frame 10, and at this point, the overall thickness of the arrangement is that of the end frame. Furthermore, the engagement of the legs 20 and 22 with the edges of the platform 14 locates the frame 10 laterally, and the engagement of the transverse bar 30 in the channel 32 locates the end frame longitudinally. The end frame 12 is then taken, and it will be noted from Figure 15, that it is arranged with its transverse bars 24, 26, 28 and 30 on the underside. With the-end frame 12 angled upwardly to the right (as seen in Figure 15) the transverse bar 24 is introduced into the pocket 90, (this is permitted despite the angling of the end frame, by the open mouth of the pocket 90) and then the end frame is turned into a horizontal plane, lowering the transverse bar 30 into the channel 34. When this movement is completed, the legs 20 and 22 of the frame 12 rest on top of the transverse bars 26 and 24 of the bottom end frame 10, but the total thickness of the assembly is then only equal to the thickness of the bottom end frame 10 plus the thickness of the legs 20 and 22 of the top frame 12.

At this stage, a screw on bolt can be threaded through a hole (not shown) in the platform 14, the z iron 88 and the bar 24 of the end frame to hold the two end frames to the platform.

The platform with the end frames attached to it, is then inverted. Each of the braces 16 is then laid on the top surface of the platform, the braces lying side by side at one side of the platform and their spigots overhanging the ends of the platform. In fact, the spigots engage with the ends of the platform and locate the braces longitudinally.

Finally, the handrail 18 is fitted. The legs 62 and 64 overlie the braces 16, and its longitudinal bar 60 lies along one side edge of the platform. The legs 62 and 64 are angled inwardly slightly to bring holes midway along their lengths into alignment with the holes 94. Bolts are then passed through each leg 62 and 64, the platform, the channel 32 or 34, and the bar 30 of the end frame. The wing nuts are fitted to these bolts and the whole assembly is then secured, the braces 16 being trapped between the platform and the legs 62 and 64. The lower end frame 10 is in any case trapped by the upper end frame 12, and the inner end of that end frame 12 is held down by the Z angle iron 88 on to the underside of the work top.

The channels 32 and 34 could be replaced by Z angle irons similar to that at 88, opening outwardly for fitting on to the bars 24, 26, 28 and 30. The bars are then fitted by horizontal motion into the angle irons instead of the vertical motion used to fit them into the channels 32 and 34.

The kit may include a pasteboard for use in wallpapering. The board itself may for instance comprise a slab of veneered chipboard measuring, in one example, 1828mm by 533mm by 16mm. A pair of square cross-section metal extension tubes is provided, which can each be slid into one of the transverse bars and secured in the bar by a pin passed through aligned holes in the bar and the extension tube. The extension tubes are of such a length that when fitted to the transverse bars, they project by almost the width of the pasteboard. They are fitted so«that they project from the bench/scaffold at the opposite side of the handrail 18 to the platform. The pasteboard is supported on these projecting extension tubes but spring clips are fitted to the underside of the pasteboard to enable it to be secured to the extension tubes.

Claims

C AIMS

1. An assembly kit for making up into a scaffold platform comprising: a platform; a pair of end frames; the platform and end frames having inter-connections such that when assembled, the end frames provide upright supports for the platform, and each end frame being adapted to be connected to the platform at two or more vertically spaced positions, in each of which the platform is substantially horizontal, by a simple releasable push-in inter-connection, and a rigid brace members having inter-connection with the two end frames by simple releasable push-in inter-connection from outside the width of each end frame, the brace member being of such a length that in the assembled condition, it provides a diagonal strut between the end frames which lies outside the space between the end frames.

2. An assembly kit as claimed in Claim 1, in which the end frames provide push-in inter-connection locations for the brace member at least one of which is at the same level on its end frame as a provision for simple releasable push-in inter-connection with the platform, so that the kit can be assembled in such a way that the platform, one end frame and the brace member provide a triangular structure.

3. An assembly kit as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2, in which there are two substantially identical brace members, so that two diagonal strut structures can be formed in the assembled condition.

4. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims l to 3, in which the vertically spaced positions at which each end frame can be connected to the platform are at different distances from the mid-height position of the end frame so that for any assembled condition, the height of the platform can be changed by inverting the end frames, to a height not provided by the or one of the other assembled conditions.

5. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 4, in which the end frames and the platform are adapted to be inter-connected by a transverse bar on either an end frame or the platform received as a releasable push-in fit in a transverse socket on the other of the end frame and the platform.

6. An assembly kit as claimed in Claim 5, in which a transversely extending socket open on the underside is provided on the platform and each end frame is provided with the transverse bar projecting from the inner face of a main portion of the end frame and being a releasable push-in fit in the transversely extending socket of the platform.

7. An assembly kit as claimed in Claim 5, in which the platform is provided with an outwardly open transverse socket at or near to its ends and each end frame is provided with a transverse bar projecting from the inner face of a main portion of the end frame and being a releasable push-in fit in one of the transverse sockets of the platform.

8. An assembly kit as claimed in Claim 7, in which a transverse socket on the platform is provided by a Z angle iron with one of the flanges secured to the under side of the platform, the web forming the bottom of the socket and the other flange and the under side of the platform forming parallel side walls of the socket.

9. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 8, in which each end frame is provided with two similar projecting transverse bars, one at or near its upper end and the other spaced vertically from the bar at the upper end and from the bottom end of the frame.

10 An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 8, in which each end frame has a plurality of transverse bars, the top and bottom bars being disposed at different distances from their respective nearest extremity (top or bottom) of the end frame.

11. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 5 to 10, insofar as they depend from Claim 5, in which each end of each transverse bar is open to receive a releasable push-in fit spigot provided at or near the end of a brace member whereby each transverse bar is adapted to take part in inter-connection with both the platform and a brace member.

12. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 5 to 11, insofar as they depend from Claim 5, in which the end frames are made of metal and the transverse bars comprise metal tubes.

13. An assembly kit as claimed in Claim 12, in which each spigot formed on the brace members is also a square tube of outside dimensions such that it is a releasable push-in fit in the tubular transverse bars.

14. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 10, 11 and 12, in which each spigot on the brace members is cylindrical and its outside diameter is a releasable push-in fit in the square tube transverse bars.

15. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 10, 11 and 12, in which the spigots on the brace members are of square cross section and the spigots are able to turn about their own longitudinal axis on the brace members.

16. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 15, in which a longitudinal rib is formed on each brace member.

17. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 16, which includes a plurality of pins and at least some of the push-in inter-connections are formed by aligned pairs of holes in the inter-connecting components, each pair of aligned holes being adapted to receive one of the pins to prevent accidental disconnection of the components after the pin has been fitte .

18. An assembly kit as claimed in Claim 15, in which each spigot is made of square cross section tube and each of the transverse bars on the end frames is also square cross section tube, there being holes formed through each spigot and each transverse bar from side to side in positions such that the holes on the walls of each spigot align with holes in the transverse bar when the spigot is inserted into the bar, each spigot being provided with a pair of outwardly resiliently loaded pins projecting through the holes in its walls, but held captive in the spigot, these pins providing snap-in connection between the spigot and one end of a transverse bar.

19. An assembly kit as claimed in Claim 18, in which the pair of pins are provided on a common C-shaped leaf spring which fits inside the spigot and serves both to load the pins and to retain them in the spigot.

20. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 5 to 19, insofar as they depend from Claim 5, in which the transverse bars on the end frames are of square cross section, so that they are adapted for simple releasable push-in inter-connection with the sockets of the platform when the end frame is lying parallel with and closely adjacent the underside of the platform.

21. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 20, which includes two or more feet adapted for simple push-in inter-connection with the end frames.

22. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 21, which includes two or more wheels or castors adapted for simple push-in inter-connection with the end frames.

23. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Clams 1 to 22, in which each end frame has vertical legs formed with open bottom ends to receive push-in fittings such as the feet and/or wheels or castors.

24. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 23, in which each end frame has vertical legs formed with open top ends to receive attachments.

25. An assembly kit as claimed in Claim 23 or 24, in which the vertical legs of the end frame are formed from metal tube, the top and bottom ends being left open.

26. An assembly kit as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 25, in which each end frame is made of square cross section metal tube and comprises two laterally spaced vertical legs and two transverse bars, one at the tops of the legs and the other spaced above the bottoms of the legs.

27. An assembly kit as claimed in Claim 26, in which each end frame further comprises two transverse intermediate bars between the top and bottom bars.

28. An assembly kit for making up into a scaffolding platform constructed and arranged substantially as herein described with reference to Figures 1 to 12, or Figures 1 to 12 as modified by Figure 13 of the accompanying drawings.

29. A scaffold platform having: a substantially horizontal platform; a pair of end frames, each having simple releasable push-in inter-connection with the platform and providing upright supports for the platform and a rigid brace member having simple releasable push-in inter-connection with the two end frames from outside the width of each end frame, the brace member providing a diagonal strut between the end frames, which lies outside the space between the end frames, each end frame being adapted to that is can be connected to the platform at two or more vertically spaced positions.

30. A scaffold platform as claimed in Claim 29, in which each end frame is provided with push-in inter¬ connection locations for* the brace member at least one of which is at the same level as a provision on that end frame for simple releasable push-in inter-connection with the platform, so that the brace member and platform can be connected to the end frame in such a way that the platform, one of the end frames and the brace form a triangular structure. -37-

31. A scaffold platform as claimed in Claim 29 or Claim 30, in which a second brace member substantially identical to the first forms a second diagonal structure between the end frames sloping in the opposite direction to the first brace member.

32. A scaffold platform as claimed in Claim 31, in which the two brace members cross each other.

33. A scaffold platform as claimed in Claim 31, in which the two triangular structures are formed one above and one below the platform.

34. A scaffold platform as claimed in any one of Claims 30 to 33, in which the vertically spaced positions at which each end frame can be connected to the platform are at different distances from the mid-height position of the end frame so that for any assembled condition, the height of the platform can be changed by inverting the nd frames, to a height not provided by the or one of the other assembled conditions.

35. A scaffold platform as claimed in any one of Claims 30 to 34, in which the end frames and the platform are connected by a transverse bar on either an end frame or the platform, received as a releasable push fit in a transverse socket on the other of the end frame and the platform.

36. A scaffold platform as claimed in any one of Claims 30 to 35, in which the platform is provided with downwardly open sockets at or near its ends and each end frame is provided with a transverse bar projecting from the inner face of a main portion of the end frame and received as a push-in fit in one of the downwardly open sockets .

37. A scaffold platform as claimed in any one of Claims 30 to 35, in which the platform is provided with outwardly open transverse sockets at or near to its ends and each end frame is provided a transverse bar projecting from the inner face of a main portion of the end frame and received as a releasable push fit in one of the transverse sockets of the platform.

38. A scaffold platform as claimed in Claim 37, in which a transverse socket on the platform is provided by a Z angle iron with one of the flanges secured to the under side of the platform, the web forming the bottom of the socket and the other flange and the under side of the platform forming parallel side walls of the socket.

39. A scaffold platform as claimed in any one of Claims 30 to 38, in which each end frame is provided with two similar projecting transverse bars, one at or near its upper end and the other spaced vertically from the bar at the upper end and from the bottom end of the frame.

40. A scaffold platform as claimed in any one of Claims 36 to 38, in which each end of each brace member has a spigot received as a push-in fit in an open end of one of the transverse bars on the end frames.

41. A scaffold platform as claimed in any one of Claims 30 to 39, in which at least one of the push-in connections is secured against accidental disconnection by a pin passing through aligned holes one in each of the connected components.

42. A scaffold platform constructed and arranged substantially as herein described with reference to Figures 1 to 7, or Figure 8 or Figure 9 or Figures 10 and 13, or Figure 12 of the accompanying drawings.

43. A flat pack comprising a rectangular platform having transverse sockets on its under side and two end frames each having at least one transverse bar push fitted into a respective one of the transverse sockets on the platform, the arrangement holding the end frames in close parallel juxtaposition with the platform.

44. A flat pack as claimed in Claim 43, substantially as herein described with reference to Figure 15 of the accompanying drawings.