WO2004104324A2

WO2004104324A2 - Coupling element for pipes and the like

Info

Publication number: WO2004104324A2
Application number: PCT/NL2004/000318
Authority: WO
Inventors: Adrianus Maria Petrus Bakker
Original assignee: Adrianus Maria Petrus Bakker
Priority date: 2003-05-22
Filing date: 2004-05-11
Publication date: 2004-12-02
Also published as: NL1023497C2; WO2004104324A3

Abstract

Coupling element comprising a first shell and a second shell having first and second clamping surfaces for engaging a pipe, rod or a similar elongated element on both sides, wherein the first shell has a first end and a second end and the second shell has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first shell is hinged to the first end of the second shell, and a locking element for locking the second end of the first shell and the second end of the second shell with respect to each other, wherein the locking element comprises a first locking member and a second locking member, wherein the first locking member and the second locking member are coupled by means of a springy element, and wherein the first locking member is hinged to the first shell, and wherein the second locking member has an engagement surface for coupling to an engagement surface on the second shell.

Description

Coupling element for pipes and the like

The invention further relates to a coupling element for pipes and the like.

Such coupling elements are for instance used for building scaffolding. The coupling element may form a coupling between a pipe to be clamped and another construction part that has been attached or is to be attached to the coupling element.

Such coupling elements are generally known. It is of importance that the connection to be created is reliable for the purpose in question, in case of among others scaffolding predominantly safe.

It is an object of the invention to provide a coupling element that forms a reliable connection.

It is an object of the invention to provide a coupling element that is easy to operate.

At least one of these objects is achieved according to an aspect of the invention with a coupling element comprising a first shell and a second shell having first and second clamping surfaces for engaging a pipe, rod or a similar elongated element on both sides, wherein the first shell has a first end and a second end and the second shell has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first shell is hinged to the first end of the second shell, and a locking element for locking the second end of the first shell and the second end of the second shell with respect to each other, wherein the locking element comprises a first locking member and a second locking member, wherein the first locking member is rotatably attached to the first shell, and the second locking member has one or more first coupling surfaces for coupling engagement with one or more second coupling surfaces on the second shell, wherein the first locking member and the second locking member are movably connected to each other by means of a resilient part that biasses the second locking member to the second end of the first shell.

Due to such a resilient biassing element the second locking member may temporarily move with respect to the first locking member during arrangement of the coupling element, yet it is biassed in a locking position. The second locking member may pass through a dead centre during arrangement. The arrangement of the coupling member is thus simplified. The operation of the coupling element will be enhanced.

Preferably adjustment means are provided for adjusting the resilience of the biassing element, which adjustment means preferably are provided on the first locking member. By means of the adjustment means the recoil strength of the second locking member can be adapted to the situation and the use. In an application possibility the force with which a rod is clamped by the coupling element may for instance be adjusted: a stronger or less strong clamping of the pipe can be realised for pipes of various diameters.

Preferably the second shell comprises confining means for confining the first coupling surface of the second locking member in locked condition in radial direction -with respect to the pipe and the like to be clamped-. The confining means counteract inadvertent or unwanted detachment of the coupling element: the sliding away in radial direction of the coupling surface of the second locking member from the coupling surface of the second shell is prevented by the confining means. Instead the locking may be ended by, counter to the spring force, in tangential direction removing the coupling surface of the second locking member from the coupling surface of the second shell.

The confining means may furthermore be an aid in the realisation and loosening of the clamping when the second locking member is rotatable with respect to the first locking member, about a centre line parallel to the passage defined by the coupling element. Realisation of the locking may take place by bringing the coupling surface of the second locking member in engagement with the coupling surface on the second shell through rotation of the second locking member. This is facilitated by bringing the coupling surface of the second locking member in radial inward direction behind the wall portion extending in circumferential direction on the second shell; when rotating the second locking member the upper edge of said wall portion on the second shell may serve as tilting point for a portion of the second locking member. By rotating the second locking member both the locking and the confinement in radial direction of the coupling surface of the second locking member is realised. Ending the locking may take place by, through rotation of the second locking member, removing its coupling surface from the coupling surface of the second shell.

Preferably the confining means are positioned for confining the first coupling surfaces in axial direction -with respect to the pipe and the like to be clamped- as well. Thus both shells are locked in a supplementary way against mutual movement in an axial plane.

Preferably the first locking member is attached to the second end of the first shell.

Preferably the second locking member is rotatably connected to the first locking member at the location of a first hinge. The first locking member may be rotatably connected to the first shell at the location of a second hinge.

Thus both locking members are dual-hinged in series with respect to the first shell, wherein a hinge point is under the influence of the biassing element.

In an embodiment thereof in the closed, clamping condition of the coupling element, the plane having the first hinge and the second hinge is at an angle to a radial plane that passes through a contact plane of the first and second coupling surfaces, which angle is smaller than 90 degrees, which enhances a self-locking.

Preferably the second locking member is provided with an opening for passage of the first locking member, as a result of which the second locking member can be moved from a side of the first locking member to its other side.

In an embodiment the second locking member is rotatable to a position abutting the second shell when in the closed, clamping condition of the coupling element. As a result the second locking member can be moved in an almost continuous motion from an arranging position to the clamping position, as a result of which the ease of operation is considerably increased.

It is preferred here that the second shell has a first recess for accommodation of the second locking member in the closed, clamping condition of the coupling element, preferably in a flush-mounted manner. Thus it is prevented that in the locked condition of the coupling element for instance a sleeve of a piece of clothing gets caught on the second locking member, or inadvertently hits the second locking member. Inadvertent or undesirably detachment of the coupling element is thus prevented.

Preferably the second shell has a second recess for in the locked condition enabling the engagement of the second locking member. In case in the locked condition the second locking member does not protrude with respect to the second shell, the second recess of the second shell enables engagement of the second locking member for ending the locking. Preferably the second recess of the second shell is adapted for accommodating at least one finger.

In a simple embodiment the first locking member is elongated and the second locking member is movable along the first locking member. The first locking member preferably is pin-shaped, wherein the second locking member extends on both sides of the first locking member at the location where they are connected to each other.

Preferably the attachment means are adapted for rotatably attaching the coupling element to the further object. In case another coupling element has been attached to the coupling element, rods having a different orientation can be secured with respect to each other.

Preferably the attachment means have a screw hole in the first shell.

Preferably the first shell and the second shell have roughened engagement surfaces for engaging the rod or shore. Clamping the rod in the coupling element is improved as a result.

In a first further development of the coupling element according to the invention, the biassing element ensures the clamping force in the coupled condition of the first and second coupling surfaces. It may thus be possible to clamp rods and the like of various or slightly different diameters with the same coupling element. The latter may be the case as a result of stickers, dents or dimensional tolerances being present. Furthermore the springy element locks the second end of the first shell under spring tension with respect to the second end of the second shell. Rods of various diameters can also be engaged firmly with the same coupling element. Sliding of the coupling element with respect to the engaged rod is counteracted despite the diameter differences. In a second further development of the coupling element according to the invention, the second shell and at least one of the first and second locking members are provided with cooperating first and second stop members for by a stopping action limiting a moving apart of the second ends of both shells. Thus it is ruled out that both shells are able to move apart when in the coupled condition, the stop members thus having a locking function.

In a simple embodiment thereof the first and second stop members comprise a pin and a groove, wherein the groove preferably is provided with a run-in opening, as a result of which the realisation of the coupling and the ending thereof is facilitated. Preferably the first stop members form the pin, so that the mobile parts, the first and second locking members, can be free from such protrusions.

In a simple embodiment the second stop members are provided on the first locking member, as a result of which said locking member acquires an additional function, using its position.

For increased stability of the coupling element in the arranged condition and for facilitating the realisation thereof, it is preferred that the first and second stop members are disposed on both sides of the second shell and first or second locking member.

Particularly in case of use of said locking stop members, wherein the mutual position of both shells is fixed, it is preferred that the first and/or second clamping surfaces are provided with means for attachment of a first and a second filling shell, respectively, for adjustment to the diameter of a pipe or the like to be clamped. Especially in scaffolding a coupling that complies with the strict safety standards can at all times be obtained. The filling shells, particularly the portion contacting the object to be clamped, may be made of another material than the material of the coupling element, particularly synthetic material. This makes it possible to select the material of the filling shells based on friction increasing properties. In that case clamping does not only depend on the force with which the coupling is arranged. Usually those forces have to be quite large, but this may result in deformation of the pipe or the like to be clamped.

Adjustment of the coupling element to a diameter of a pipe or the like may - starting from an otherwise standard coupling element- easily be realised when the first and the second filling shell are detachably attached to the first and/or second clamping surfaces, respectively.

Preferably the first and/or second clamping surfaces and the first and/or second filling shells, respectively, are provided with ribs and grooves that fit into each other, which preferably are axially oriented.

When the position and/or shape of the ribs and grooves is different for both clamping surfaces and filling shells, their placement can take place reliably, also when the lengths of both filling shells are different. The filling shells can then be placed in one way only.

Further rationalisation can be achieved when the filling shells are composed of several layers, comprising an inner friction providing layer and a filling layer situated outside of it, which layers are attached to each other. Use can then be made of a standard sized filling layer, which need not be of a particular material, for instance of ABS, and making the layer situated within it of friction providing material, for instance of EPDM. The EPDM is elastically compressible to a slight extent, for instance 20%.

From a further aspect the invention thus provides a coupling element comprising a first shell and a second shell having first and second clamping surfaces for engaging a pipe, rod or a similar elongated element on both sides, wherein the first and the second shell are provided with first and second clamping surfaces, respectively, wherein the first shell has a first end and a second end and the second shell has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first shell is hinged to the first end of the second shell, wherein the coupling element is provided with locking means for securing both shells with respect to each other in the position clamping the elongated element, wherein the first and/or second clamping surfaces are provided with means for attachment of a first and a second filling shell, respectively.

Preferably the coupling element and the filling shell are made of different material, for instance metal, particularly aluminium, and synthetic material, respectively.

Preferably the filling shells are composed of several layers, comprising an inner friction providing layer and a filling layer situated outside of it, which layers are attached to each other.

Preferably the first and/or second clamping surfaces and the first and/or second filling shells, respectively, are provided with ribs and grooves fitting into each other, which preferably are axially oriented.

The first locking member may have at least one longitudinal groove for accommodating a part of the second locking member. By way of the longitudinal groove the second locking member can slide with respect to the first locking member.

The biassing element may be a spring, preferably a helical spring.

The adjustment means may comprise an adjusting screw or adjustment bolt for adjusting the helical spring. By rotating the adjusting screw or adjustment bolt the helical spring may be more or less pushed in for adjusting the spring force according to need. The first locking member may form an accommodation space for the biassing element, so that it is shielded. In a preferred embodiment the first locking member comprises a hollow cylinder wherein the hollow cylinder may be provided with longitudinal grooves for accommodating a part of the second locking member.

The second locking member may extend through the first locking member with a connection member, such as a rotation pin, which connection member is attached to the biassing element.

In a lightweight embodiment the coupling element is made of aluminium.

In a preferred embodiment attachment means are provided for attachment of the coupling element to a further construction part, such as for instance another coupling element, to a toe board of a scaffolding or to an anchoring rod. In this way for instance a toe board may be attached to a scaffolding by arranging the coupling element attached to the toe board around a rod or shore of the scaffolding.

When the attachment means are provided on the first shell room is kept free on the second shell for (particularly accommodating) the second locking member.

The attachment means preferably are adapted for rotatably attaching the coupling element to the further construction part. The attachment means may comprise a threaded hole in one of the shells.

From a further aspect the invention provides a coupling element comprising a first shell and a second shell having first and second clamping surfaces for engaging a pipe, rod or a similar elongated element on both sides, wherein the first shell has a first end and a second end and the second shell has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first shell is hinged to the first end of the second shell, and a locking element for locking the second end of the first shell and the second end of the second shell with respect to each other, wherein the locking element comprises a first locking member and a second locking member, wherein the first locking member is rotatably attached to the first shell, and the second locking member has one or more first coupling surfaces for coupling engagement with one or more second coupling surfaces on the second shell, wherein the first locking member and the second locking member are rotatably connected to each other, wherein the second locking member is rotatable to a position abutting the second shell when in the closed, clamping condition of the coupling element.

Preferably the second shell has a first recess for accommodation of the second locking member in the closed, clamping condition of the coupling element, preferably in a flush-mounted manner.

The second locking member preferably is provided with an opening for passage of the first locking member.

The second shell and at least one of the first and second locking members may be provided with cooperating first and second stop members for by stopping action limiting a moving apart of the second ends of both shells.

The first and second stop members may comprise a pin and a groove, wherein the groove preferably is provided with a run-in opening. The pin may be provided on the second shell. The second stop members may be provided on the first locking member. The first and the second locking member may be movably attached to each other by means of a resilient part that biasses the second locking member to the second end of the first shell.

From a further aspect the invention provides a coupling element comprising a first shell and a second shell having first and second clamping surfaces for engaging a pipe or rod on both sides, wherein the first shell has a first end and a second end and the second shell has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first shell is hinged to the first end of the second shell, and a locking element for locking the second end of the first shell and the second end of the second shell with respect to each other, wherein the locking element comprises a first locking member and a second locking member wherein the first locking member and the second locking member are coupled by means of a springy element, and wherein the first locking member is hinged to the first shell, and wherein the second locking member has an engagement surface for coupling to an engagement surface on the second shell.

As a result the second locking member is able to adjust to the position of the second shell with respect to the first shell during placing the coupling element, in order to make engagement with the engagement surface of the second locking member possible. It may thus be possible to clamp rods and the like of various or slightly different diameters with the same coupling element. The latter may be the case as a result of stickers, dents or dimensional tolerances being present. Furthermore the springy element locks the second end of the first shell under spring tension with respect to the second end of the second shell.

The invention further relates to a toe board assembly for a scaffolding.

From Dutch patent 101 5330 it is known to realise a toe board assembly for a scaffolding by first attaching rapid couplings to the uprights of the scaffolding and then arrange boards between the corresponding pairs of rapid couplings. To realise the connection between boards and rapid couplings, the boards are provided at their ends with bushes that can be accommodated in corresponding accommodation slits on the rapid couplings: the boards are slid with their bushes into corresponding slits of the rapid couplings. The realisation of the known assembly on the scaffolding is time-consuming and elaborate. Moreover when moving the loose boards and attaching them to the rapid couplings there is the risk of objects being hit, for instance personnel standing on a work platform of the scaffolding or glass walls of an adjacent building. Each time a board is moved on the scaffolding there is a danger of it falling down from the scaffolding.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a toe board assembly which can be arranged quickly and efficiently on the scaffolding.

To that end the invention, from a further aspect, provides a toe board assembly for a scaffolding, wherein the toe board assembly comprises a longitudinal board and a first transverse board, wherein the first transverse board is hinged with respect to a first end of the longitudinal board, wherein at the location of the first end of the longitudinal board a first coupling element is provided for attaching the toe board assembly to an upright/girder of the scaffolding. Because the first transverse board, for instance during transportation or storage of the assembly, can be folded against the longitudinal board by the hinged connection between them, the manageability of the assembly when moving it is made easier. By folding the first transverse board against the longitudinal board, the assembly, for transportation or storage, acquires a compact shape. The assembly is one unity at all times, during storage, transportation and placement. There are no separate parts that need to be kept together, built together or may get mislaid. The arrangement of the assembly on a work platform of the scaffolding is simply a matter of unfolding the first transverse board and attaching the first coupling element to an upright of the scaffolding. Having to attach the boards to the coupling element on the work platform is no longer necessary which results in an improvement of efficiency and safety.

It is observed that a toe board assembly having six boards of which the ends are hinged to each other is known. In this known toe board assembly a combination of four toe boards can be folded and unfolded. The known assembly is fixed with respect to the scaffolding because in unfolded condition it is confined by raised edges of the work platform of the scaffol- ding. The assembly according to the invention is less heavy and bulky than this known assembly.

In a preferred embodiment the assembly comprises a second transverse board that is hinged with respect to a second end of the longitudinal board, wherein at the location of the second end of the longitudinal board a second coupling element is provided for the attachment of the toe board assembly to a further upright/girder of the scaffolding. When the scaffolding is placed against a facade, the facade is a boundary for a side of the work platform of the scaffolding. The other sides of the work platform are then bounded by the assembly with the longitudinal board with both transverse boards. Three boards thus suffice to bound the working platform on all four circumferential sides indeed. Arranging the assembly on the work platform of the scaffolding is now simply a matter of unfolding both transverse boards and attaching both coupling elements to uprights of the scaffolding. For transportation or storage of the assembly both transverse boards are folded against the longitudinal board as a result of which the assembly again acquires a compact shape.

Both transverse boards preferably are permanently connected to the longitudinal board.

Advantageously the longitudinal board and/or first and/or second transverse board is/are telescopically extendable. The same assembly may thus suffice for scaffolding of various sizes by adjusting the length of the longitudinal board and/or transverse boards to the size of the scaffolding by extending or retracting the board(s). Preferably means for the longitudinal board and/or first and/or second transverse board are provided for fixing a set length of the longitudinal board and/or first and/or second transverse board.

Preferably the means for fixing the set length comprise first spring-loaded balls. When telescopically extending or retracting, a set length is fixed of its own accord by the first spring-loaded balls. No separate actions are needed to that end.

In a preferred embodiment means for the first and/or second transverse board are provided for in folded condition fixing the first and/or second transverse board against the longitudinal board. Due to fixing the transverse boards there is no risk that they unexpectedly swing to the outside with respect to the longitudinal board during transportation of the assembly.

Advantageously the means for in folded condition fixing the first and/or second transverse board comprise second spring-loaded balls. Fixing then takes place of its own accord when folding the transverse boards. No additional actions are necessary for fixing as a result of which a further increase of efficiency is realised.

Some embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example on the basis of the figures.

Figure 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the toe board assembly according to the invention arranged on a scaffolding.

Figure 2 shows the toe board assembly shown in figure 1 separately in perspective view.

Figure 3 shows the toe board assembly of figure 2 with folded side boards. Figure 4 shows a top view of a first exemplary embodiment of a coupling element according to the invention.

Figure 5 shows a view in perspective of the coupling element shown in figure 4.

Figure 6 shows a view in perspective of the coupling element of figure 5 when realising the locking of the shells.

Figure 7 shows a view in perspective of the coupling element of figure 6 when the locking of the shells has been accomplished.

Figure 8 shows a top view of a second first exemplary embodiment of a coupling element according to the invention.

Figure 9A shows a view in perspective of the coupling element shown in figure 8, in a second stage of placing.

Figure 9B shows a view in perspective of the coupling element shown in figure 8, in a third stage of placing.

Figure 1 0A shows a view in perspective of the coupling element of figure 8 after completed placing.

Figures 1 0B and 1 0C show views wherein pipes of a different diameter are clamped on.

On the scaffolding 1 shown in figure 1 a work platform 2 has been arranged having the toe board assembly 3 according to the invention. The toe board assembly 3 comprises a longitudinal board 4 to which by means of angle sections 6 two transverse boards 5 are permanently hinged. A coupling element 7 has been attached to each angle section 6 by which means the assembly 3 is attached to two uprights 8 of the scaffolding 1 . The longitudinal board 4 is telescopically extendable and retractable by means of profile members 4a and 4b of the longitudinal board 4 that are slidable with respect to each other. Although not shown in figure 1 , the assembly 3 may be provided with one or more anchoring rods which may for instance be attachable to the coupling elements 7. These anchoring rods serve to lock the assembly 3 in for instance vertical direction. The anchoring rods will then extend between the horizontal pipes of the scaffolding 1 .

The assembly 3 of figure 1 is shown in more detail in figure 2. Both transverse boards 5 are connected by means of the respective hinge connections 9 to the respective angle sections 6. The longitudinal board 4 is permanently connected to angle sections 6. In the angle sections 6 spring- loaded balls 10 have been arranged which are able to cooperate with corresponding cavities in the transverse boards 5 to fix the transverse boards 5 in the condition folded against the longitudinal board 4, Profile member 4a of longitudinal board 4 is provided with spring ball 1 1 in order to cooperate with cavities in profile member 4b in order to fix profile members 4a and 4b against each other. A set length of the longitudinal board 4 can thus be fixed.

Figure 3 shows the assembly 3 of figure 1 and 2 wherein both transverse boards 5 have been folded against longitudinal board 4. The arrangement of the assembly 3 on the scaffolding 1 , starting from the situation shown in figure 3, takes place by first transporting the assembly 3 with folded transverse boards 5 to the work platform 2. Because the transverse boards 5 are fixed against longitudinal board 4 by means of spring-loaded balls 1 0, there is no danger of the transverse boards 5 suddenly unfolding (direction I). On the platform 2 the coupling elements 7 are subsequently coupled with the uprights 8, wherein optionally the length of longitudinal board 4 is adjusted by sliding (direction H) profile member 4a and 4b with respect to each other. Subsequently the transverse boards 5 are unfolded (direction I). The assembly 3 is now arranged on the platform 2 as shown in figure 1 , and is ready to be used.

Figure 4 shows an exemplary embodiment of a coupling element 20 according to the invention. The coupling element 20 has a shell 21 (second shell) and 22 (first shell) which are connected to each other with hinge 23. Shell 21 has a free end 50 and shell 22 has a free end 51 .

A hollow pin 25 (first locking member) is attached to shell 22 by means of a hinge 24 (first hinge). The hollow pin 25 is provided with two slits 27 extending in longitudinal direction through which slits a pin 28 (second hinge) of a closing lip 29 (second locking member) is slidably arranged. The closing lip 29 is able to rotate with shaft 28 with respect to the pin 25. A helical spring 26 is arranged in the hollow pin 25 which helical spring is confined between the shaft 28 of closing lip 29 and the distal end 30 of pin 25. The shaft 28 is pressed in the direction of the proximal end of pin 25 by the helical spring 26. The closing lip 29 is provided with a passage 60, through which the hollow pin 25 is able to rotate.

Figure 5 shows the coupling element 20 of figure 4 in perspective view. At the proximal end 30 of pin 25 an adjusting screw 35 is provided in order to be able to change the tension of the helical spring 26. By rotating the adjusting screw 35 the helical spring 26 is pressed in either more or less due to which the force exerted by the helical spring 26 on the shaft 28 is changed. Shell 22 is provided with a hole 38 by means of which the shell 22 can be attached to an object, for instance a toe board of a scaffolding as shown in figure 1 , or another coupling element. Shell 21 is provided with a first recess 39 for accommodation of closing lip 29 such that closing lip 29 does not protrude with respect to shell 21 . A second recess 40 is provided in shell 21 in order to be able to engage the closing lip 29 for moving it out of the first recess 39. The second recess 40 is dimensioned for accommodating a fingertip. The shell 21 is furthermore provided with planes 31 , 32 which can be engaged by engagement surfaces 33, 34 of closing lip 29 for locking the free end 50 of shell 21 with respect to the free end 51 of shell 22. The planes 31 , 32 are bounded by respective wall portions 36, 37 extending in circumferential direction, the wall portions 36, 37 having upper edges 36a, 37a.

In the situation shown in figure 5, the engagement surfaces 33, 34 are not in engagement with the planes 31 , 32: the locking has not yet been realised. The shells 21 and 22 have indeed already been rotated towards each other in the direction A, about hinge 23 (direction B). Subsequently both locking members 25 and 29 have been rotated about hinge 24 (direction C).

Figure 6 shows the coupling element 20 wherein the stop surfaces 52, 53 of closing lip 29 have been positioned behind the wall portions 36, 37 of shell 21 . The engagement surfaces 33, 34 of closing lip 29 shown in figure 5 are then almost transverse to the respective planes 31 , 32 of shell 21 . In principle this may already be a stable condition, wherein the shells 21 and 22 are connected to each other, wherein use is made of the resilience of spring 27. By now rotating (direction D) the closing lip 29 with respect to the hollow pin 25, the locking will be realised. The closing lip here rotates over the hollow pin 25 to its other side. The upper edges 36a, 37a of the wall portions 36, 37 here initially serve as tilting point for the closing lip 29. When rotating the spring 27 will first be pressed in further and pin 28 will move in the grooves 26 (direction E), until a dead centre has been passed, and the spring 27 ensures further movement of the closing lip 29. During the movement of the closing lip 29, the wall portions 36, 37 confine the stop surfaces 52, 53 of the closing lip 29 in radial outward direction, so that when rotating the closing lip 29 it may not get detached from the shell 21 . The hollow pin 25 has then ended up at least partially in the recess 58 provided to that end in the shell 21 . Figure 7 shows the coupling element 20 with the accomplished locking. The planes 31 , 32 of shell 21 are now engaged by the respective engagement surfaces 33, 34 of closing lip 29. They are also axially bounded in their motion. Due to helical spring 26, engagement surfaces 33, 34 are pressed on the respective planes 31 , 32. As a result the free end 50 of shell 21 is resiliently locked with respect to the free end 51 of shell 22.

Due to the wall portions 36, 37 of shell 21 the engagement surfaces 33, 34 of closing lip 29 are confined in radial direction when in the locked condition. As a result inadvertent or undesired detachment of the coupling element 20 is counteracted. Inadvertent or undesired detachment of the coupling element 20 is further counteracted because closing lip 29 in locked condition does not protrude with respect to shell 21 ; for instance a sleeve of a piece of clothing may thus not get caught on the closing lip 29. By hooking a finger behind the closing lip 29 via the second opening 40, the closing lip 29 can indeed be detached.

The coupling element shown in figure 8 largely corresponds to the one of the figures 4-7, but is equipped with a facility for fully fixing the shells of the coupling element 1 20 with respect to each other against a moving apart from each other.

The coupling element 120 comprises a second shell 121 and a first shell 1 22, which at the location of 1 23 are hinged to each other (B), to make swinging in the direction A of both shells 1 21 and 1 22 possible.

At the inner surface the shells 1 21 , 1 22 are provided with a filling shell 1 81 , 1 82, which are substantially circular having the same radius and each are composed of a filling layer 1 81 b, 1 82b situated radially at the outside and an inner friction providing layer 181 a, 1 82a attached to it, for instance by gluing. The filling layer 1 81 b, 1 82b may be made of ABS. The friction providing layer 1 81 a, 1 82a may be made of for instance EPDM.

The filling layers 1 81 b, 1 82b are provided with ribs 183a, 1 83b and 1 84a, 1 84b, respectively, that are clamp-fittingly accommodated in corresponding grooves in the inner surface of the shells 1 21 , 1 22. In case the ribs and grooves are continuous the ribs may be glued in the grooves in order to rule out sliding. Making the ribs and grooves finite may also be opted for, so that a confinement in axial direction is achieved. The position of the ribs and grooves is such that attachment is possible in one position only.

As can also be seen in figure 9A the second shell 1 21 is provided with a recess 1 39, which on the one hand extends in an extra recess 140 for engagement by a finger and which on the other hand extends in a recess 158 for a hollow pin 1 25 yet to be discussed. The recess 139 is bounded on both sides by wall portions 141 a, 141 b.

At the end facing away from the hinge 1 23, the shell 1 21 , at the end of the recess 1 39, is provided with surfaces 1 32 and with recesses 1 31 . These planes are situated on both sides of an opening in shell 1 21 , from which at opposite sides locking pins 155a, 1 55b protrude.

The recess 131 is bounded radially to the outside by confining walls 1 36, 1 37 provided with upper edges 1 36a, 1 37a.

At the free end of the first shell 1 22 a hollow pin 1 25 is attached hinging in the direction C at the location of 1 24. As was the case before, the hollow pin is provided with two laterally extending elongated openings 1 26, in which in a snugly yet slidable manner (direction E) the pin 1 28 is accommodated. The pin 1 28 is fixedly attached to closing lip or closing arm 1 29, which closing lip 1 29 with pin 1 28 is rotatable (direction D) with respect to the hollow pin 1 25. The closing lip 1 29 is provided with a passage 160, through which the hollow pin 1 25 is able to move from the one side of the closing lip 1 29 to the other side thereof.

At the free end 1 30, the hollow pin 1 25 is provided with a socket screw 1 35 for adjustment of the tension of the spring 1 26 accommodated in the hollow pin 1 25, which spring biasses the pin 1 28 in the direction towards hinge 1 24.

In the sides, below the elongated openings 1 26, the hollow pin 1 25 is provided with two grooves 1 56a, 1 56b that are substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal centre line of the hollow pin 1 25. The lower edge boundary 1 57a of these grooves 1 56a, 1 56b is slightly curved, according to a radius R which has the hinge line of hinge 1 24 as its centre.

The closing lip 1 29 is provided with lower surfaces 1 33, 1 34, ending in stop edges 1 52, 1 53. Adjacently, recesses 1 54 are provided on the edge of the closing lip that is perpendicular to the surfaces 133, 1 34.

The first shell 1 22 is furthermore provided with a threaded hole 1 38, for attachment of said shell member on a construction part that is not further shown, which may also be a second coupling element 1 20.

When placing the coupling element 1 20 around for instance a pipe P, the coupling element 1 20 is placed manually in the condition in figure 8 around the pipe P. The shells 1 21 , 1 22 are brought towards each other in hinge direction B in the direction A, until they fully extend around the pipe P. The end surfaces 1 50, 1 51 may contact each other here.

Then the closing pin 1 25 with closing lip 1 29 is rotated about hinge 1 24 in the direction C, in order to arrange the edges 1 52, 1 53 behind the upper edges 1 36a, 1 37a, wherein the edges of the recesses 1 54 support on those upper edges. They form a point of support here. This situation is shown in figure 9B. The user then manually pushes against the closing lip 129, so that it rotates in the direction D, initially with the edges 137a, 137b as rotation point. Here the spring 127 is pressed in slightly, and the hollow pin 125 moves through the recess 160 of the closing lip 129. Towards the end of this motion the locking pins 155a, 155b run past the curved edges 157a, b in the grooves 156a, 156b, in order to be snugly accommodated in there. The stop of the pins 155a, b against the edge 157a,b prevents a moving apart of both shells 121, 122.

During these motions, the stop edges 152, 153 are stopped radially to the outside by the walls 136, 137. The surfaces 133, 134 may optionally be supported contacting the planes 132 for forming a lower stop during moving. The recesses 131 here provide room for rotation of the edges 152, 153. The hollow pin 125 here partially ends up in the recess 158. After passing through a dead centre, the spring 127 extends slightly again and exerts a downward force on the closing lip 129.

In one continuous motion the closing lip 129 is rotated through in order to be accommodated in the recess 139, in a smooth manner on the outer surface (figure 10A). The coupling element 120 is now clamped on the pipe P, and hardly has protruding parts, so that inadvertent detachment of the coupling element 120 is almost ruled out. By inserting the little pins 155a, b into the grooves 156a, b the mutual position of the shells 121, 122 is fixed.

For exact engagement of the pipe surface, the filling layer 181b, 182b is selected in adjustment to the diameter of the pipe P to be clamped. For instance the friction layer 181a, 182a may be chosen to have a thickness of 1 mm each time, for use with pipes having an outer cross-section of 50.8 mm (figure 10A), 50 mm and 48 mm, respectively. For a pipe of 50 mm each filling layer 181b', 182b' may be chosen to be 0.4 mm thicker. In case of a pipe having a diameter of 48 mm, each filling layer 181b", 182b" may be chosen to be 1 mm thicker. All this is schematically shown in figure 10B (181b', 182b') and figure 10C(181b", 182b").

Due to the filling shells 181, 182, particularly the layers 181a, 182a, frictional forces can be generated with the pipe P to be clamped, as a result of which sliding in axial direction in conditions of use can be ruled out. The pipe P may retain its shape here.

In the figures 10B and 10C it can be seen that the coupling element 120 hardly has protruding parts: only a part of the hollow pin 125. The contours are substantially defined by circular arcs 192, 193 and flat sides 190 and 191.

Claims

1 . Coupling element comprising a first shell and a second shell having first and second clamping surfaces for engaging a pipe, rod or a similar elongated element on both sides, wherein the first shell has a first end and a second end and the second shell has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first shell is hinged to the first end of the second shell, and a locking element for locking the second end of the first shell and the second end of the second shell with respect to each other, wherein the locking element comprises a first locking member and a second locking member, wherein the first locking member is rotatably attached to the first shell, and the second locking member has one or more first coupling surfaces for coupling engagement with one or more second coupling surfaces on the second shell, wherein the first locking member and the second locking member are movably connected to each other by means of a resilient part that biasses the second locking member to the second end of the first shell.

2. Coupling element according to claim 1 , wherein adjustment means are provided for adjusting the resilience of the resilient element, which adjustment means preferably are provided on the first locking member.

3. Coupling element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second coupling surfaces comprise confining means for confining the first coupling surface of the second locking member in locked condition in radial direction -with respect to the pipe and the like to be clamped-.

4. Coupling element according to claim 3, wherein the confining means are positioned for confining the first coupling surfaces in axial direction -with respect to the pipe and the like to be clamped- as well.

5. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second locking member is rotatably connected to the first locking member at the location of a first hinge.

6. Coupling element according to claim 5, wherein the first locking member is rotatably connected to the first shell at the location of a second hinge.

7. Coupling element according to claim 6, wherein in the closed, clamping condition of the coupling element the plane having the first hinge and the second hinge is at an angle to a radial plane that passes through a contact plane of the first and second coupling surfaces, which angle is smaller than 90 degrees.

8. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second locking member is provided with an opening for passage of the first locking member.

9. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second locking member is rotatable to a position abutting the second shell when in the closed, clamping condition of the coupling element.

1 0. Coupling element according to claim 9, wherein the second shell has a first recess for accommodation of the second locking member in the closed, clamping condition of the coupling element.

1 1 . Coupling element according to claim 1 0, wherein the second locking member is accommodated in a flush-mounted manner.

1 2. Coupling element according to claim 1 1 , wherein the second shell is provided with a second recess for in the locked condition enabling the engagement under the second locking member, preferably with at least one finger.

13. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first locking member is elongated and the second locking member is movable along the first locking member.

14. Coupling element according to claim 1 3, wherein the first locking member is pin-shaped and the second locking member extends on both sides of the first locking member at the location where they are connected to each other.

1 5. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first locking member is attached to the second end of the first shell.

1 6. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the biassing element ensures the clamping force in the coupled condition of the first and second coupling surfaces.

1 7. Coupling element according to any one of the claims 1 -1 5, wherein the second shell and at least one of the first and second locking members are provided with cooperating first and second stop members for by a stopping action limiting a moving apart of the second ends of both shells.

1 8. Coupling elements according to claim 1 7, wherein the first and second stop members comprise a pin and a groove, wherein the groove preferably is provided with a run-in opening.

1 9. Coupling element according to claim 1 8, wherein the pin is provided on the second shell.

20. Coupling element according to claim 1 8 or 1 9, wherein the second stop members are provided on the first locking member.

21 . Coupling element according to any one of the claims 1 7-20, wherein the first and second stop members are disposed on both sides of the second shell and first or second locking member.

22. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and/or second clamping surfaces are provided with means for attachment of a first and a second filling shell, respectively.

23. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and the second filling shell are detachably attached to the first and/or second clamping surfaces, respectively.

24. Coupling element according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the first and/or second clamping surfaces and the first and/or second filling shells, respectively, are provided with ribs and grooves that fit into each other, which preferably are axially oriented.

25. Coupling element according to claim 24, wherein the position and/or shape of the ribs and grooves is different for both clamping surfaces and filling shells.

26. Coupling element according to any one of the claims 22-25, wherein the filling shells are composed of several layers, comprising an inner friction providing layer and a filling layer situated outside of it, which layers are attached to each other.

27. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first locking member has at least one longitudinal groove for accommodating the second locking member.

28. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the biassing element is a spring, preferably a helical spring.

29. Coupling element according to claim 28, wherein the adjustment means comprise an adjusting screw or adjustment bolt for adjusting the helical spring.

30. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first locking member forms an accommodation space for the biassing element.

31 . Coupling element according to claim 30, wherein the second locking member extends through the first locking member with a connection member that is attached to the biassing element.

32. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling element is made of aluminium.

33. Coupling element according to any one of the preceding claims, provided with attachment means for attachment of the coupling element to a further construction part.

34. Coupling element according to claim 33, wherein the attachment means are provided on the first shell.

35. Coupling element according to claim 33 or 34, wherein the attachment means are adapted for rotatably attaching the coupling element to the further construction part.

36. Coupling element according to claim 28 or 29, wherein the attachment means comprise a threaded hole in one of the shells.

37. Coupling element comprising a first shell and a second shell having first and second clamping surfaces for engaging a pipe, rod or a similar elongated element on both sides, wherein the first and second shell are provided with first and second clamping surfaces, respectively, wherein the first shell has a first end and a second end and the second shell has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first shell is hinged to the first end of the second shell, wherein the coupling element is provided with locking means for securing both shells with respect to each other in the position clamping the elongated element, wherein the first and/or second clamping surfaces are provided with means for attachment of a first and a second filling shell, respectively.

38. Coupling element according to claim 37, wherein the coupling element and the filling shell are made of different material, for instance metal particularly aluminium and synthetic material, respectively.

39. Coupling element according to claim 38, wherein the filling shells are composed of several layers, comprising an inner friction providing layer and a filling layer situated outside of it, which layers are attached to each other.

40. Coupling element according to claim 37, 38 or 39, wherein the first and/or second clamping surfaces and the first and/or second filling shells, respectively, are provided with ribs and grooves fitting into each other, which preferably are axially oriented.

41 . Coupling element according to claim 40, wherein the position and/or shape of the ribs and grooves is different for both clamping surfaces and filling shells.

42. Coupling element comprising a first shell and a second shell having first and second clamping surfaces for engaging a pipe, rod or a similar elongated element on both sides, wherein the first shell has a first end and a second end and the second shell has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first shell is hinged to the first end of the second shell, and a locking element for locking the second end of the first shell and the second end of the second shell with respect to each other, wherein the locking element comprises a first locking member and a second locking member, wherein the first locking member is rotatably attached to the first shell, and the second locking member has one or more first coupling surfaces for coupling engagement with one or more second coupling surfaces on the second shell, wherein the first locking member and the second locking member are rotatably connected to each other, wherein the second locking member is rotatable to a position abutting the second shell when in the closed, clamping condition of the coupling element.

43. Coupling element according to claim 42, wherein the second shell has a first recess for accommodation of the second locking member in the closed, clamping condition of the coupling element, preferably in a flush-mounted manner.

44. Coupling element according to claim 42 or 43, wherein the second locking member is provided with an opening for passage of the first locking member.

45. Coupling element according to any one of the claims 42-44, wherein the second shell and at least one of the first and second locking members are provided with cooperating first and second stop members for by stopping action limiting a moving apart of the second ends of both shells.

46. Coupling element according to claim 45, wherein the first and second stop members comprise a pin and a groove, wherein the groove preferably is provided with a run-in opening.

47. Coupling element according to claim 46, wherein the pin is provided on the second shell.

48. Coupling element according to claim 46 or 47, wherein the second stop members are provided on the first locking member.

49. Coupling element according to any one of the claims 42-48, wherein the first and the second locking member are movably attached to each other by means of a resilient part that biasses the second locking member to the second end of the first shell.

50. Coupling element comprising a first shell and a second shell having first and second clamping surfaces for engaging a pipe or rod on both sides, wherein the first shell has a first end and a second end and the second shell has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the first shell is hinged to the first end of the second shell, and a locking element for locking the second end of the first shell and the second end of the second shell with respect to each other, wherein the locking element comprises a first locking member and a second locking member wherein the first locking member and the second locking member are coupled by means of a springy element, and wherein the first locking member is hinged to the first shell, and wherein the second locking member has an engagement surface for coupling to an engagement surface on the second shell.

51 . Toe board assembly for a scaffolding, wherein the toe board assembly comprises a longitudinal board and a first transverse board, wherein the first transverse board is hinged with respect to a first end of the longitudinal board, wherein at the location of the first end of the longitudinal board a first coupling element is provided for attaching the toe board assembly to an upright/girder of the scaffolding.

52. Toe board assembly according to claim 51 , comprising a second transverse board that is hinged with respect to a second end of the longitudinal board, wherein at the location of the second end of the longitudinal board a second coupling element is provided for the attachment of the toe board assembly to a further upright/girder of the scaffolding.

53. Toe board assembly according to claim 51 or 52, wherein the longitudinal board and/or first and/or second transverse board is/are telescopically extendable.

54. Toe board assembly according to claim 53, wherein means for the longitudinal board and/or first and/or second transverse board are provided for fixing a set length of the longitudinal board and/or first and/or second transverse board.

55. Toe board assembly according to claim 54, wherein the means for fixing the set length comprise first spring-loaded balls.

56. Toe board assembly according to any one of the claims 51 -55, wherein means for the first and/or second transverse board are provided for in folded condition fixing the first and/or second transverse board against the longitudinal board.

57. Toe board assembly according to claim 56, wherein the means for in folded condition fixing the first and/or second transverse board comprise second spring-loaded balls.

58. Toe board assembly according to any one of the claims 51 -57, wherein the first and/or second transverse board is permanently connected to the longitudinal board.

59. Coupling element provided with one or more of the characterising measures described in the attached description and/or shown in the attached drawings.

60. Toe board assembly provided with one or more of the characterising measures described in the attached description and/or shown in the attached drawings.