WO2013150439A1

WO2013150439A1 - Modular scaffold

Info

Publication number: WO2013150439A1
Application number: PCT/IB2013/052611
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sunny WEE LIANG MUN
Original assignee: Wee Liang Mun Sunny
Priority date: 2012-04-03
Filing date: 2013-04-02
Publication date: 2013-10-10
Also published as: GB2492436B; GB201205930D0; SG11201404961RA; GB2492436A

Abstract

The application provides a coupling module for a scaffolding structure. The coupling module includes a connecting tubular member, one or two slot coupler units, and an end-portion coupler unit. In particular, the connecting tubular member includes at least one end portion, wherein each end portion comprises at least one slot. The slot coupler unit has a slot receptacle unit that is provided inside the slot and is also provided for taking up a pivotally movable slot lever. The slot coupler unit also has a welding that attaches one or more side-walls of the slot receptacle unit to the slot. The end-portion coupler unit has a welding that attaches the end-portion coupler unit to the connecting tubular member and also attaches the end-portion coupler unit to the slot coupler unit.

Description

MODULAR SCAFFOLD

This application relates to an improved coupler for connecting tubular units of a scaffolding structure.

Scaffolding is commonly constructed from lengths of steel or aluminium tubes, which are connected to each other to form an open structure. The size and configuration of the structure can be assembled according to needs of its application. These tubes are normally joined by a plurality of coupling devices, wherein the coupling device comprises two couplers, which are fixedly joined together with each other at a right angle. Each coupler is used for connecting to a tube by a nut and bolt locking device, wherein both tubes that meet at a right angle.

It is an object of the application to provide an improved scaffolding coupler.

It is believed that a slot or opening can be provided in a scaffolding tubular member for receiving a scaffolding tubular coupler. The slot allows a larger area of contact between the tubular member and the scaffolding tubular coupler and also a larger area for joining the tubular member to the scaffolding tubular coupler by a welding. The welding is also known as a welding seam, a welding bead or welding beads, or a welded j oint .

The welding includes one or more welding elements, wherein the welding elements are physically separated. Each welding element fixedly joins together two pieces, which usually comprise metal. The joining is usually done when the two pieces are hot. The welding element can include a filler material that is placed between the two pieces to join the two pieces together. On cooling, the solidified filler material establishes a strong mechanical bond between the two pieces, thereby fixedly attaching the two pieces together.

A stronger connection can thus be provided between the scaffolding tubular coupler and the tubular member. Such connection is important as it enhances safety for users.

The application provides a coupling module for a scaffolding structure. The scaffolding structure provides a platform for workers, such as bricklayers, painters, or miners, to stand or sit on when working at a height above ground.

The coupling module includes a connecting tubular member as well as at least one slot coupler unit, which often refers to one or two slot coupler units .

The connecting tubular member has an elongated shape with at least one end-portion, which often refers to one or two end- portions. Each end-portion includes at least one slot, which often refers to one or two slots. The slots are also called openings .

The slot coupler unit includes a slot receptacle unit and a corresponding welding. The slot receptacle unit is provided inside the slot. The welding fixedly attaches at least one side-walls of the slot receptacle unit to the slot.

The coupling module also includes an end-portion coupler unit. The end-portion coupler unit has a welding that fixedly attaches a part of the end-portion coupler unit to the connecting tubular member and fixedly attaches another part of the end-portion coupler unit to the slot coupler unit. In use, the slot coupler unit is used for engaging a scaffolding tubular unit. In particular, the slot receptacle unit of the slot coupler unit is provided for taking up a pivotally movable slot lever. The slot lever together with the slot receptacle unit then engages a horizontal scaffolding tubular unit .

The slot has a benefit of providing a large surface area for the welding between the slot receptacle unit and the connecting tubular member. This allows the welding to provide a strong bond between the connecting tubular member and the slot coupler unit. This is important since the coupling module is used for assembling a scaffolding structure, which is used for supporting people.

Referring to the end-portion coupler unit, it is also used for engaging a vertical scaffolding tubular unit.

The vertical scaffolding tubula unit acts as a standard or an upright. The standard refers to . vertical tube for transfer- ring the weight of a scaffoldin structure towards the ground.

The connecting tubular member acts a ledger. The ledger refers to a horizontal tube for connecting to a standard to support the standard.

The horizontal scaffolding tubular unit acts as a transom. The transom refers to a horizontal tube that connects to a ledger at a right angle. The transom is often used to support a board, which provide an area for users to stand.

The slot coupler unit acts a right-angle coupler. The right- angle coupler is used for connecting a ledger to a standard and also for connecting the ledger to a transom. The slot coupler unit often includes a slot lever, which is pivotally attached to the slot receptacle unit. This allows the slot coupler unit to provide an open position and a closed position. The closed position is also called a locking position .

In the open position, the slot receptacle unit and the slot lever are adapted to receive a horizontal scaffolding tubular unit. In the closed position, the slot receptacle unit and the slot lever are adapted to engage the received scaffolding tubular unit, wherein the engagement fixes the scaffolding tubular unit to the slot coupler unit.

In a general sense, the slot coupler unit can be used to engage a vertical scaffolding tubular unit, instead of a horizontal scaffolding tubular unit.

The slot coupler unit often includes a slot-locking device for locking the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. In use, after the slot receptacle unit receives a scaffolding tubular unit, the slot-locking device locks the slot lever together with the slot receptacle unit to the scaffolding tubular unit for fixing the slot coupler unit to the scaffolding tubular unit .

The slot-locking device can include a nut and bolt assembly for locking the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. This locking does not require any hammering, which can generate sparks that could ignite any combustible material that is present. This form of locking is thus suitable for areas, such as oil and gas industry, where combustible gas may be present. Different means can be provided for pivotally attaching the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. One means refers to a rivet, which is easy to implement. Another means refers to a self-locking bolt and nut assembly that provides a strong connection .

One end of the connecting tubular member can include just one slot and a corresponding welding. The side-walls of the slot receptacle are provided inside the one slot while the welding fixedly attaches the side-walls to the one slot. The single slot has an advantage of being easier to produce.

One end of the connecting tubular member can also comprise two slots and a corresponding welding. The two slots are placed next to each other. One side-wall of the slot receptacle is provided inside one slot while the other side-wall of the slot receptacle is provided inside the other slot. The welding fixedly attaches the side-walls to the two slots. The two slots have a benefit of providing a stronger bond between the connecting tubular member and the slot receptacle.

The end-portion coupler unit can include an end-portion receptacle unit and a corresponding welding. The welding fixedly attaches a base portion of the end-portion receptacle unit to an end-portion of the connecting tubular member.

The end-portion receptacle unit of the end-portion coupler unit and the slot receptacle unit of the slot coupler unit often have similar shapes for easier design.

Referring to the slot receptacle unit, it can include a base portion and a welding. The base portion is provided between two side-walls. The welding fixedly attaches the base portion of the slot receptacle unit to a side-wall of the end-portion receptacle unit.

In one aspect of the application, the slot comprises a load- bearing surface for receiving a horizontal scaffolding tubular unit. The position of the slot receptacle unit with respect to the slot of the connecting tubular member is adapted such a surface of the slot serves as a load-bearing area. The load- bearing area receives the force exerted by the scaffolding tubular unit such that it essentially prevents the welding between the slot and the slot receptacle unit from experiencing mechanical stress or mechanical fragile that would lead to cracking .

The application also provides a further coupling module for a scaffolding structure.

The coupling module includes an elongated connecting tubular member and at least one slot coupler unit, which often refers to one or two slot coupler units.

The connecting tubular member has at least one end portion, which often refers to one or two end portions. The end portion includes at least one slot, which often refers to one or two slots .

The slot coupler unit includes a base unit with a corresponding welding, and a slot receptacle unit. In particular, the base unit is provided inside the slot. The first welding fixedly attaches at least one side-wall of the base unit to the slot . The slot provides a benefit of allowing the welding to be larger in order to provide a stronger bond between the slot coupler unit and the connecting tubular member.

The slot receptacle unit is pivotally attached to the base unit .

In practise, the slot coupler unit serves as a swivel coupler.

The connecting tubular member serves a brace.

The swivel coupler is intended for attaching the brace to ledgers for supporting the ledgers . The ledger refers to a horizontal tube of a scaffolding structure. The attachment is done such that the brace is often placed diagonally or at an acute angle.

The brace is often attached to the ledgers at areas, which are near to standards, which are connected to the ledgers. The standard refers to a vertical tube for transferring the weight of a scaffolding structure towards the ground.

In a general sense, the brace can also be connected to standards, instead of being connected to ledgers.

The base unit of the slot coupler unit and the slot receptacle unit of the slot coupler unit can have similar shapes.

The slot coupler unit usually has a slot lever being pivotally attached to the slot receptacle unit. This enables the slot coupler unit to provide an open position and a closed position. In the open position, the slot receptacle unit and the slot lever are used for receiving a scaffolding tubular unit. In the closed position, the slot receptacle unit and the slot lever are used to engage the received scaffolding tubular unit.

The pivotal attachment between the base unit and the slot receptacle unit allows the slot receptacle unit to be inclined at different angles for engaging an inclined scaffolding tubular unit.

The slot coupler unit usually includes a slot-locking device for locking the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. In use, the slot receptacle unit is used for receiving a scaffolding tubular unit. After this, the slot-locking device locks the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit, thereby causing the slot lever together with the slot receptacle unit to engage with the received scaffolding tubular unit.

The slot-locking device often iricludes a nut and bolt assembly, which does not require a hammering action for locking the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. The hammering action can generates sparks can ignite any combustible material that are present. This form of locking is thus suitable for areas, such as oil and gas industry, where combustible gas may be present.

In one implementation, a rivet pivotally attaches the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. In another implementation, a bolt and nut assembly pivotally attaches the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit.

One end of the connecting tubular member may comprise only one slot and a corresponding welding. The single slot is easier to produce. The side-walls of the base unit are provided inside the one slot while the welding fixedly attaches the side-walls are to the slot. One end of the connecting tubular member may also comprise only two slots and a corresponding welding. The two slots are placed next to each other. One side-wall of the base unit is provided inside one of the two slots while another side-wall of the base unit is provided inside another of the two slots. The welding fixedly attaches the two side-walls attached to the two slots. These two slots provide for a stronger connection between the connecting tubular member and the base unit.

Different means may be used to attach the slot receptacle unit to the base unit. A rivet can be used for pivotally attaching the slot receptacle unit to the base unit. A self-locking bolt and nut assembly can also be used for pivotally attaching the slot receptacle unit to the base unit.

The slot coupler unit can include an end-portion coupler unit with a corresponding welding. The welding fixedly attaches the end-portion coupler unit to the connecting tubular member and also fixedly attaches the end-portion coupler unit to the slot.

In use, the slot receptacle unit is intended for taking up a pivotally movable slot lever. The slot receptacle unit and the slot lever engage a scaffolding tubular unit, which can be positioned at differently inclinations.

The end-portion coupler unit is used to engage a scaffolding tubular unit, which is often oriented vertically or horizontally.

The application also provides a scaffolding structure. The scaffolding structure includes a plurality of scaffolding tubular units and a plurality of the above coupling modules. The coupling module is provided for connecting to one or more of the scaffolding tubular units . According to one aspect of the application, the scaffolding structure includes at least one supporting ring. The ring surrounds a vertical scaffolding tubular unit and it is fixedly attached to an external surface of the vertical scaffolding tubular unit by welding.

When the coupling module is engaged to the vertical scaffolding tubular unit, the coupling module is placed above the ring such that the ring supports the coupling module.

This is especially important in areas, where oil or other lubricating liquid may spill onto the scaffolding tubular unit, wherein the lubricating liquid causes the coupling module to lessen its grip or hold on the scaffolding tubular unit. The supporting ring then supports the coupling module and keeps the coupling module from slipping.

The scaffolding structure often has one or more sleeves. The sleeve comprises two cylinders and a plate. The cylinders are joined to the plate. One cylinder is joined to a major surface of the plate while the other cylinder is joined to a second major surface of the plate. The two major surfaces are placed next to each other. In use, the sleeve is used for joining an upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit to a lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit. In particular, the plate is arranged horizontally. The upper cylinder is used for received a lower part of the upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit while the lower cylinder is used for received an upper part of the lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit.

The sleeve often comprises at least one clamp that is provided around a slit of the cylinder. In use, the cylinder is used for receiving a scaffolding tubular unit. The clamp then tightens the cylinder around the scaffolding tubular unit while the slit allows the tightening force of the clamp to be transmitted to the scaffolding tubular unit.

The sleeve often has a cylindrical shape.

The scaffolding structure can include one or more further sleeves. An external surface of the sleeve has one or more sleeve openings. In use, a lower end of the sleeve is used for receiving a top part of a lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit and for attaching to the lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit by welding. An upper end of the sleeve is provided for receiving a bottom part of an upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit. The sleeve opening is provided for receiving a locking pin for locking the sleeve to a scaffolding opening of the upper scaffolding tubular unit, wherein the locking pin is inserted into the sleeve opening and the scaffolding opening.

The scaffolding structure can include one or more further sleeves. The sleeve has a collar that is attached to an external surface of the sleeve. The collar is placed between a lower end and an upper end of the sleeve. In use, the lower end is provided for inserting inside a top part of a lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit such that the top part of the lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit supports the collar. The upper end of the sleeve is inserted in a bottom part of an upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit such that the collar supports the upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit.

The scaffolding structure often also includes one or more height variable foots. The height variable foot is provided for supporting a vertical scaffolding tubular unit. The application also provides a vertical scaffolding tubular unit. The vertical scaffolding tubular unit includes an elongated cylinder and one or more supporting rings. The rings surround an external surface of the cylinder and they are welded to predetermined areas of an external surface of the cylinder. In use, these rings are used to support coupling modules .

The rings have a thickness of between about 10 millimetres and about 15 millimetres, although other dimensions are also possible. This thickness allows the rings be bent and form easily during production of the ring while also allowing the rings to have sufficient mechanical strength for supporting the coupling module.

The rings can have a generally rounded cross section or a generally rectangular profile with rounded edges so that the rings do not easily cut users .

The adjacent rings are often separated from each other by a distance of about 300 millimetres, although other dimensions are also possible. illustrates a front view of a scaffolding module be ing in a closed position and being attached to a vertical scaffolding tube as well as being attached to a horizontal scaffolding tube,

illustrates a side view of a connecting tubular mem ber of the scaffolding module of Fig. 1,

illustrates a bottom view of the connecting tubular member of Fig. 2,

illustrates a rectangular profile of a supporting ring of a vertical scaffolding tube for supporting the scaffolding module of Fig. 1, illustrates a round profile of another supporting ring of a vertical scaffolding tube for supporting the scaffolding module of Fig. 1,

illustrates a front view of a horizontal tubular coupler of the scaffolding module of Fig. 1, the tubular coupler being in an open position,

illustrates a side view of a receptacle unit of the horizontal tubular coupler of Fig. 6,

illustrates a rear view of the horizontal tubular coupler of Fig. 6,

illustrates a top view of a lever of the horizontal tubular coupler of Fig. 6,

illustrates a front view of the lever of Fig. 9, illustrates a front cross-sectional view of the connecting tubular member of Fig. 2 being attached to the receptacle unit of Fig. 7 by welding,

illustrates a side view of the connecting tubular member of Fig. 11,

illustrates a vertical scaffolding tube with two supporting rings for supporting the scaffolding module of Fig. 1,

illustrates a cross-sectional front view of a sleeve for receiving vertical scaffolding tubes,

illustrates a top view of the sleeve of Fig. 14, illustrates a cross-sectional front view of a further sleeve for receiving the vertical scaffolding tubes ,

illustrates a cross-sectional front view of another sleeve for receiving vertical scaffolding tubes, illustrates a jack base for supporting vertical scaffolding tubes,

illustrates one configuration of the connecting tubular member of Fig. 1, Fig. 20 illustrates a further configuration of the connecting tubular member of Fig. 1,

Fig. 21 illustrates another configuration of the connecting tubular member of Fig. 1,

Fig. 22 illustrates a scaffolding structure using the connecting tubular member of Fig. 19 and the connecting tubular members of Fig. 20,

Fig. 23 illustrates a side view of a variation of the connecting tubular member of Fig. 2,

Fig. 24 illustrates a side view of another scaffolding module ,

Fig. 25 illustrates a front view of the scaffolding module of Fig. 24,

Fig. 26 illustrates a variation of the scaffolding module of

Fig. 24,

Fig. 27 illustrates a scaffolding structure using the scaffolding module of Fig. 24 or Fig. 26,

Fig. 28 illustrates another scaffolding structure using the scaffolding module of Fig. 24 or Fig. 26,

Fig. 29 illustrates, a front view of a further variation of the scaffolding module of Fig. 1, and

Fig. 30 illustrates a side view of the further variation of the scaffolding module of Fig. 29.

In the following description, details are provided to describe embodiments of the application. It shall be apparent to one skilled in the art, however, that the embodiments may be practiced without such details.

Some parts of the embodiments, which are shown in the Figs., have similar parts. The similar parts have the same names or similar part numbers with a prime symbol or with an alphabetic symbol. The description of such similar parts also applies by reference to other similar parts, where appropriate, thereby reducing repetition of text without limiting the disclosure.

An embodiment of a ledger with a right angle coupler for a scaffolding structure is described below.

Fig. 1 shows a scaffolding module 10 for a scaffolding structure. The module 10 includes a horizontal connecting tubular member 12 with two ends. One double-coupler parts 13 is placed at one end of the connecting tubular member 12 while another double-coupler part 13 is placed at another end of the connecting tubular member 12.

As better seen in Figs. 2 and 3, the horizontal connecting tubular member 12 comprises a hollow horizontal cylinder 15, which has a slot 19. The horizontal cylinder 15 has an external surface while an end part 16 of the horizontal cylinder 15 has a partial vertical circular surface 17. The circular surface 17 is joined to the external surface. The slot 19 has a u-shaped channel, which is placed on the external surface of the horizontal cylinder 15 such that the slot 19 is joined to the circular surface 17.

Referring to Fig. 1, the double-coupler part 13 comprises a vertical tubular coupler 21 and a horizontal tubular coupler 22.

The vertical tubular coupler 21 is placed next to the cylindrical end part 16 of the connecting tubular member 12 and is rigidly connected to the vertical tubular coupler 21 by a welding 14. The horizontal tubular coupler 22 inserted in the slot 19 and is rigidly connected to the horizontal tubular coupler 22 by a welding 18. Moreover, the vertical tubular coupler 21 is rigidly connected to the horizontal tubular cou- pier 22 by a welding 20. The welding can be called as a welding seam, a welding bead, welding beads, or a welded joint.

In particular, the circular surface 17 of the cylindrical end part 16 is rigidly connected to a vertical surface of the vertical tubular coupler 21 by the welding 17. The slot 19 is rigidly connected to the horizontal tubular coupler 22 by the welding 18.

The welding includes at least one more welding elements . The welding element fixedly attaches two pieces together. The pieces often have metal and are often joined at high temperature. The welding element often has a filler material for placing between the two pieces to join the two pieces together. On cooling, the solidified filler material provides a strong mechanical bond between the two pieces, thereby fixedly attaching the two pieces together.

Referring to the horizontal tubular coupler 22, it comprises a receptacle unit 25 and a lever 27 together with a locking device 29. The lever 27 is pivotally connected to the receptacle unit 25 by a rivet 30 while the locking device 29 is pivotally connected to the receptacle unit 25 by a rivet 32.

Figs. 6, 7, and 8 show different views of the receptacle unit 25. The receptacle unit 25 comprises an elongated base portion 31 with a first elongated side-wall portion 33 and with a second elongated side-wall portion 34. The elongated base portion 31 and the elongated side-wall portions 33 and 34 are arranged such that they form a u-shaped channel, as depicted in Fig. 7.

The first elongated side-wall portion 33 is placed parallel to the second elongated side-wall portion 34. The elongated base portion 31 has a first elongated side and a second elongated side in which the first elongated side is placed opposite to the second elongated side. The first elongated side of the elongated base portion 31 is integrally joined to the first elongated side-wall 33 at an angle of about 90 degrees. Similarly, the second elongated side of the elongated base portion 31 is integrally joined to the second side-wall 34 at an angle of about 90 degrees.

The first elongated side-wall portion 33 has a first end part 36 and a second end part 37 as well as a tubular engagement surface 38. The tubular engagement surface 38 is placed between the end parts 36 and 37. The first end part 36 includes a first hole 40 while the second end part 37 includes a second hole 42.

Likewise, the second elongated side-wall portion 34 has a first end part 44 and a second end part 45 as well as a tubular engagement surface 47. The tubular engagement surface 47 is located between the end parts 44 and 45. The first end part 44 includes a first hole 50 while the second end part 45 includes a second hole 52.

The first end part 36 of the first elongated side-wall portion 33 is placed next to the first end part 44 of the second elongated side-wall portion 34 such that the first hole 40 of the first end part 36 is placed next to the first hole 50 of the first end part 44. In the same manner, the second end part 37 of the first elongated side-wall portion 33 is placed next to the second end part 45 of the second elongated side-wall portion 34, wherein the second hole 42 of the second end part 37 is placed next to the second hole 52 of the second end part 45. The tubular engagement surface 38 of the first elongated side- wall portion 33 is also placed next to the tubular engagement surface 47 of the second elongated side-wall portion 34. Figs. 9 and 10 show different views of the lever 27. The lever 27 has a first forked end part 55 and a second forked end part 56 as well as a curved tubular engagement surface 58. The first forked end part 55 includes holes 62 while the second forked end part 56 includes a slot 60.

Referring to Fig. 1, the locking device 29 includes a bolt 70 and a nut 72. The bolt 70 has a head part 74 and a threaded end part 75, wherein the head part 74 has a hole 77. The head part 74 is placed between the second end part 37 of the first elongated side-wall portion 33 and the second end part 45 of the second elongated side-wall portion 34.

During assembly of the locking device 29, the rivet 32 is inserted through the hole 77 of the head part 74 of the bolt 70, through the hole 42 of the second end part 37, and through the hole 52 of the second end part 45. The insertion allows the rivet 32 to connect pivotally the bolt 70 to the first elongated side-wall portion 33 and to the second elongated side- wall portion 34. One end of the rivet 32 has an enlarged portion while another end of the rivet 32 is hammered such that it also forms an enlarged portion in order to prevent the rivet 32 from separating from the bolt 70 and the receptacle unit 25.

With reference to the vertical tubular coupler 21, it has parts similar to the parts of the horizontal tubular coupler 22.

In a general sense, a bolt and nut assembly can replace each of the rivets 30 and 32. This bolt and nut assembly can have a self-locking mechanism. The self-locking mechanism provides an open state and a locking state. In the locking state, the self-locking mechanism does not permit a release from the locking state. The bolt and nut assembly is also adapted for high-tension mechanical use.

The bolt 70 and the nut 72 can also be provided as a self- locking bolt and nut assembly. The slot 60 of the second part 56 of the lever 27 can be replaced with a hole for receiving the threaded end part 75 of the bolt 70.

During assembly of the horizontal tubular coupler 22, the first end part 55 of the lever 27 is placed between the first end part 36 of the first elongated side-wall portion 33 and the first end part 44 of the second elongated side-wall portion 34. The rivet 30 is inserted through the hole 62 of the first end part 55 of the lever 27, through the hole 40 of the first end part 36 of the first elongated side-wall portion 33, and through the hole 50 of the first end part 44 of the second elongated side-wall portion 34. This insertion is done such that the rivet 30 pivotally connects the lever 27 to the first elongated side-wall portion 33 and to the second elongated side-wall portion 34 of the receptacle unit 25. One end of the rivet 30 is also hammered such that it forms an enlarged portion in order to prevent the rivet 30 from separating from the lever 27 and from the receptacle unit 25.

The horizontal tubular coupler 22 provides an open position and a closed position.

In the open position, the threaded end part 75 of the bolt 70 is placed apart from the slot 60 of the lever 27 in order that the horizontal tubular coupler 22 is able to receive a horizontal scaffolding tube 26, which is illustrated in Fig. 1. The scaffolding tube serves as a tubular unit. In the closed position, the threaded end part 75 of the bolt 70 is inserted into the slot 60 of the lever 27. The nut 72 is screwed onto the threaded end part 75 of the bolt 70 for fastening the lever 27 onto the receptacle unit 25. The fastening also engages the tubular engagement surface 58 of the lever 27 with the received horizontal scaffolding tube 26 and engages the tubular engagement surface 38 of first elongated side-wall portion 33 and the tubular engagement surface 47 of second elongated side-wall portion 34 with the said horizontal scaffolding tube 26. These engagements fixedly attach the horizontal tubular coupler 22 to the horizontal scaffolding tube 26.

In a similar manner, the vertical tubular coupler 21 also provides an open position and a closed position.

Figs. 11 and 12 show the horizontal tubular coupler 22 being inserted in the slot 19 of the connecting tubular member 12. The insertion is done such that a part of the first elongated side-wall portion 33 and a part of the second elongated side- wall portion 34 of the receptacle unit 25 of the horizontal tubular coupler 22 are placed inside the slot 19. The inserted part of the first elongated side-wall portion 33 and the inserted part of the second elongated side-wall portion 34 are welded to the slot 19, as shown in Fig. 12.

A part of the base portion 31 of the receptacle unit 25 of the horizontal tubular coupler 22 protrudes from the connecting tubular member 12 and it is placed next to one side-wall portion of the receptacle unit of the vertical tubular coupler 21, as depicted in Fig. 1. The protruded base portion of the horizontal tubular coupler 22 is welded to the adjacent side-wall portion of the vertical tubular coupler 21. In addition, the base portion of the receptacle unit of the vertical tubular coupler 21 is placed next to the circular surface 17 of the end part 16 of the connecting tubular member 12. This base portion of the vertical tubular coupler 21 is also joined to the end part of the connecting tubular member 12 by the welding 14.

In use, the horizontal tubular coupler 22 grips a horizontal scaffolding tube 26 such that the horizontal tubular coupler 22 is fixed to the horizontal scaffolding tube 26.

Similarly, the vertical tubular coupler 21 grips a vertical scaffolding tube 24 such that the vertical tubular coupler 21 is fixed to the vertical scaffolding tube 24. The vertical scaffolding tube 24 includes one or more supporting rings 23. Each supporting ring 23 is fixedly joined to an external surface of the vertical scaffolding tube 24 by a welding 28. The rings 23 have a round cross-sectional profile and are disposed at standardised or fixed distances on the vertical scaffolding tube 24. The vertical tubular coupler 21 is positioned next to and above the supporting ring 23 such that the ring 23 supports the tubular coupler 21.

In a generic sense, each ring 23 can have a generally rectangular profile with round edges, as illustrated in Fig. 4, or have a round profile, as illustrated in Fig. 5. The ring 23 can also have other profiles with no sharp edges that may injure a user.

The slot 19 of the connecting tubular member 12 acts to receive the horizontal tubular coupler 22 and allows a large area of the horizontal tubular coupler 22 to be welded to the connecting tubular member 12, thereby forming a strong and reliable bond between the connecting tubular member 12 and the tubular coupler. Such bond is especially important since the scaffolding is often used to hold workers and their tools. Unreliable or weak scaffolding can lead to accidents. Over time, the scaffolding can also weaken due to mechanical stress and usage. Hence, strong and reliable scaffolding can help to reduce accidents and provide a higher safety margins. This is unlike other scaffolding tube that does not have a slot for receiving a coupler unit.

The locking device 29 acts to lock the lever 27 to the receptacle unit 25. This locking is used for fixing the horizontal scaffolding tube 26 to the horizontal tubular coupler 22. Similarly, the vertical tubular coupler 21 has a locking device for fixing the vertical tubular coupler 21 to the vertical scaffolding tube 24.

In a generic sense, a single coupler can replace the double- coupler part 13, wherein this single coupler is inserted into the slot 19 of the connecting tubular member 12 and is welded to the slot 19 of the connecting tubular member 12.

In one implementation, the vertical scaffolding tube 24 and the horizontal scaffolding tube 26 as well as the connecting tubular member 12 have an external diameter of about 48.6 millimetres (mm) and a material thickness of about 2.4 mm. In another application, these scaffolding tubes 24 and 26 as well as the connecting tubular member 12 have an external diameter of about 48.3 mm and a material thickness of about 3.2 mm. These scaffolding tubes 24 and 26 and the well as the connecting tubular member 12 can have a length of about 6 metres, although other lengths are also possible. They can be produced from steel or aluminium material . The ring 23 has a thickness of about 10 mm to about 15 mm. In a special embodiment, the ring 23 has a thickness of about 8 mm to about 20 mm. The vertical scaffolding tube 24 has several rings 23, which are placed about 300 mm apart, as is illustrated in Fig. 13. Other separation dimensions are also possible.

Different implementations of a sleeve for connecting scaffolding tubes are possible.

Figs. 14 and 15 show a sleeve 110 for connecting one upper vertical scaffolding tube 24 to another lower vertical scaffolding tube 24. The sleeve 110 has an upper cylinder 112 and a lower cylinder 114. The upper cylinder 112 and the lower cylinder 114 have a common axis and are connected to major surfaces of a flat plate 116. The upper cylinder 112 and the lower cylinder 114 have slits or openings 118. The sleeve 110 also has ring clamps 122 and 124 that are placed respectively around the upper cylinder 112 and the lower cylinder 114.

In practise, the upper cylinder 112 is used for receiving a lower part of the upper vertical scaffolding tube 24. The ring clamp 122 is used for tightening the upper cylinder 112 around the said lower part. The slit 118 of the cylinder 112 allows the tightening force to be transmitted from the ring clamp 122 to the upper vertical scaffolding tube 24. Similarly, the lower cylinder 114 is used for receiving an upper part of the lower vertical scaffolding tube 24. The ring clamp 124 is used for tightening the lower cylinder 114 around the said upper part .

Fig. 16 shows a further sleeve 110a being joined to an upper vertical scaffolding tube 24a and to a lower vertical scaffolding tube 24b. The sleeve 110a has a cylindrical shape. A top part of the lower vertical scaffolding tube 24b is inserted into a lower part of the sleeve 110a, wherein a welding 119 joins the scaffolding tube top part to the sleeve 110a. In contrast, a bottom part of the upper vertical scaffolding tube 24a is inserted into an upper part of the sleeve 110a. The scaffolding tube bottom part has holes 130, which are aligned to holes 131 of the sleeve upper part. These holes 130 and 131 receive a locking pin 120. In use, the welding 119 acts to secure the sleeve 110a to the scaffolding tube 24b while the locking pin 120 serves to lock the sleeve 110a to the scaffolding tube 24a.

Fig. 17 shows another sleeve 110b. The sleeve 110b includes a tube 127 and a supporting collar 128. The tube 127 has a cylindrical shape while the collar 128 is attached to an external surface of the tube 127. In use, a lower part of the tube 127 is inserted in a top part of a lower vertical scaffolding tube 24b such that the collar 128 rests on the top part of the lower vertical scaffolding tube 24b. In other words, the lower vertical scaffolding tube 24b supports the sleeve 110b via the collar 128. In contrast, an upper part of the tube 127 is inserted in a bottom part of an upper vertical scaffolding tube 24a. The lower vertical scaffolding tube 24b supports the upper vertical scaffolding tube 24a via the collar 128.

In a general sense, different configurations of the connecting tubular member 12 are possible.

Fig. 19 shows a connecting tubular member 12a that includes a cylinder 15. One end of the cylinder 15 is attached to a horizontal tubular coupler 22 while another one end of the cylinder 15 is attached to another horizontal tubular coupler 22. Fig. 20 shows a further connecting tubular member 12b. The connecting tubular member 12b has a cylinder 15. One end of the cylinder 15 is attached to a horizontal tubular coupler 22 while another one end of the cylinder 15 is attached to another horizontal tubular coupler 22 and to a vertical tubular coupler 21.

Fig. 21 shows another connecting tubular member 12b, which includes a cylinder 15. One end of the cylinder 15 is attached to a horizontal tubular coupler 22 and to a vertical tubular coupler 21. Another one end of the cylinder 15 is attached to another horizontal tubular coupler 22 and to another vertical tubular coupler 21.

Fig. 22 shows a scaffolding structure using the connecting tubular members of Fig. 19 and Fig. 20.

In use, the scaffolding structures are often placed next to fixed structures, such as a building.

The vertical scaffolding tubes 24 are joined to adjacent vertical scaffolding tubes 24 at their ends via the sleeve 110, 110a, or 110b. The vertical scaffolding tubes 24 are often also connected to the nearby fixed structures for support.

The connecting tubular members 12 with the double-coupler part 13 connect the horizontal scaffolding tubes 26 to the vertical scaffolding tubes 24. Jack bases 78, having adjustable heights, are used for supporting the vertical scaffolding tubes 24.

Such jack base 78 is illustrated in Fig. 18.

The double-coupler part 13 is suitable for use in areas where combustible material, such as oil or gas may be present. This is because the module 10 does not require hammering, which can generate sparks that may ignite any combustible material, which are present.

In practice, the vertical scaffolding tube 24 serves as a standard. The standard is also called an upright. The standard refers to a vertical tube for transferring the weight of the scaffolding structure towards the ground.

The jack base 78 acts as a base plate for supporting a standard .

The connecting tubular member 12 serves as a ledger. The ledger refers to a horizontal tube for connecting to a standard to support the standard.

The horizontal scaffolding tube 26 serves as a transom. The transom refers to a horizontal tube that connects to a ledger at a right angle. The transom is often used to support a board, which provide an area for users to stand.

In one implementation, a transom rests upon a ledger. A transom can be placed next to a standard and also placed away from the standard. In another implementation, a transom is attached to a standard.

The double-coupler part 13 acts as a right-angle coupler for connecting a ledger to a standard and also to connect the ledger to a transom. A single coupler, called a putlog coupl can be used for connecting a transom with a ledger.

In a general sense, the scaffolding structure module 10 can be oriented or tilted in different angles. It can tilt horizontally, vertically, or at an acute angle. In other words, the tubular coupler 21 can be used to grip and retain a vertical scaffolding tube while the tubular coupler 22 is used to grip and retain a horizontal scaffolding tube. Alternatively, the tubular coupler 21 can be used to grip and retain a horizontal scaffolding tube while the tubular coupler 22 is used to grip and retain a vertical scaffolding tube.

Fig. 23 shows another implementation of the connecting tubular member 12 of Fig. 2. Fig. 23 depicts a further connecting tubular member 80, which comprises two slots 82, instead of one slot. The slots 82 are sized to receive respectively the first elongated side-wall portion 33 and the second elongated side- wall portion 34 of the tubular coupler 14 of Fig. 1.

During assembly of the scaffolding structure module 10, one slot 82 would receive one elongated side-wall portion 33 while the other slot 82 would receive the other elongated side-wall portion 34. These elongated side-wall portions 33 and 34 are then welded to the slots 82.

The dual slots 82 allow an even larger area of contact and an larger area of welding between the connecting tubular member 80 and the tubular coupler 14. This thereby enables an even greater mechanical bonding between the connecting tubular member 80 and the tubular coupler 14.

An embodiment of a brace with swivel couplers for a scaffolding structure is described below.

Figs. 24 and 25 depict a further scaffolding module, which includes a connecting tubular member 12'. One end of the connecting tubular member 12' is connected to a coupler part 85 by a welding 86. Another end of the connecting tubular member 12' is a similar structure. The coupler part 85 includes a first receptacle unit 87 and a second receptacle unit 88. The first receptacle unit 87 comprises a base portion 90 being attached to two elongated side- wall portions 92 and 94. These elongated side-wall portions 92 and 94 are fixedly attached to the connecting tubular member 12' by the welding 86. The base portion 90 is placed next to a base portion 97 of the second receptacle unit 88 and is pivot- ally attached the base portion 97 of the second receptacle unit 88 by a rivet 100.

The second receptacle unit 88 is intended for pivotally attaching to a lever and a locking device, which are not illustrated in Figs. 24 and 25.

In an open position, the second receptacle unit 88 and the lever are adapted to receive a scaffolding tube. In a closed position, the second receptacle unit 88 and the lever are adapted to engage and grip the received scaffolding tube.

In use, the rivet 100 allows the second receptacle unit 88 to rotate about the rivet 100 such that the gripped scaffolding tube can be placed at different rotational angle. This is especially useful when a slanting scaffolding tube is required to be engaged with different portions of the scaffolding structure for increasing rigidity.

In practise, the coupler part 85 serves as a swivel coupler while the connecting tubular member 12' serves a brace.

The swivel coupler connects the brace to ledgers for supporting the ledgers. The ledgers refer to horizontal tubes of a scaffolding structure. The connection is done such that the brace is placed diagonally or at an acute angle. The connection between the swivel couplers and the ledgers are also placed near standards, which are connected to the ledgers. The standard refers to a vertical tube for transferring the weight of a scaffolding structure towards the ground.

In a general sense, the brace can also be connected to a standard, instead of a ledger.

The connecting tubular member 12' can also include another tubular coupler 21' for engaging another scaffolding tube, as illustrated in Fig. 26. The tubular coupler 21' is connected to one end of the connecting tubular member 12' and to the receptacle unit 87 by a welding 126.

Different ways of using the connecting tubular member 12' are possible .

Fig. 27 shows a scaffolding structure that uses the connecting tubular member 12' . The second receptacle unit 88, which is placed at one end of the connecting tubular member 12', is connected to a first vertical scaffolding tube 24 while the second receptacle unit 88, which is placed at another end of the connecting tubular member 12, is connected to a second vertical scaffolding tube 24. The first connection is positioned higher than the second connection. The connecting tubular member 12' is oriented at an acute angle.

Fig. 28 shows another scaffolding structure that uses the connecting tubular member 12'. The connecting tubular member 12' is connected to two horizontal scaffolding tubes 26, instead of vertical scaffolding tubes, in which the horizontal scaffolding tubes 26 are placed at different heights.

In a general sense, the connecting tubular member 12' allows connection of one scaffolding tube to another scaffolding tube, wherein the first connection is a height that is different from the second connection. This provides a means of strengthening the scaffolding structure.

Fig. 29 and Fig. 30 show different views of another variation of the scaffolding module of Fig. 1.

Fig. 29 shows a scaffolding module 10a for a scaffolding structure. The module 10a includes an elongated horizontal connecting tubular member 12a with two ends. One double- coupler parts 13a is placed at each of the connecting tubular member 12a.

In particular, the horizontal connecting tubular member 12a comprises a hollow horizontal cylinder 15a with a slot.

In contrast, the double-coupler part 13a comprises a vertical tubular coupler 21a and a horizontal tubular coupler 22a. The vertical tubular coupler 21a is placed next to one end of the connecting tubular member 12a is rigidly connected to the end of the vertical tubular coupler 21a by a welding 126a. The horizontal tubular coupler 22a is inserted in the slot of the connecting tubular member 12a and is rigidly connected to the slot by a welding 86a. In addition, the vertical tubular coupler 21a is connected to the horizontal tubular coupler 22a via a welding 126b.

Referring to the horizontal tubular coupler 22a, it comprises a receptacle unit 87a and a lever together with a locking device. The lever and the locking device are not illustrated in Fig. 29 for the sake of simplicity.

In use, the receptacle unit 87a of the horizontal tubular coupler 22a is intended for receiving a horizontal scaffolding tube 26a while the vertical tubular coupler 21a is used for receiving a vertical scaffolding tube.

The horizontal tubular coupler 22a is positioned in the slot of the connecting tubular member 12a such that the slot serves as bearing surfaces for contacting the horizontal scaffolding tube 26a, wherein the horizontal scaffolding tube 26a supports directly the connecting tubular member 12a.

Such an arrangement does not require the receptacle unit 87a to bear the weight of the connecting tubular member 12a. The weight of the connecting tubular member 12a is bore directly by the horizontal scaffolding tube 26a. This implies that th welding 86a is not mechanically stressed by the weight of th connecting tubular member 12a, thus preventing the welding 8 from cracking due to mechanical stress.

The above embodiments can also be described with the followi lists of features or elements being organized into items. Th respective combinations of features, which are disclosed in the item list, are regarded as independent subject matter, r spectively, that can also be combined with other features of the application.

1. A coupling module for a scaffolding structure, the coupling module comprising

a connecting tubular member comprising

at least one end portion, wherein the end portion comprises at least one slot, at least one slot coupler unit, the slot coupler unit comprising

a slot receptacle unit that is provided for taking up a pivotally movable slot lever, wherein the slot receptacle unit is provided inside the slot and

a welding that attaches at least one side-wall of the slot receptacle unit to the slot, and an end-portion coupler unit comprising

a welding that attaches the end-portion coupler unit to the connecting tubular member and that attaches the end-portion coupler unit to the slot coupler unit.

The coupling module according to item 1 further comprising

a slot lever being pivotally attached to the slot receptacle unit, wherein the slot coupler unit provides an open position and a closed position,

in the open position, the slot receptacle unit and the slot lever are adapted to receive a scaffolding tubular unit, and

in the closed position, the slot receptacle unit and the slot lever are adapted to engage the scaffolding tubular unit.

The coupling module according to item 1 or 2, wherein the slot coupler unit further comprises

a slot-locking device for locking the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit.

The coupling module according to item 3, wherein

the slot-locking device comprises a nut and bolt assembly.

The coupling module according to one of the above- mentioned items further comprising

a rivet for pivotally attaching the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. The coupling module according to one of the items 1 to 4 further comprises

a bolt and nut assembly for pivotally attaching the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. The coupling module according to one of the above- mentioned items, wherein

one end of the connecting tubular member comprises

one slot, the side-walls of the slot receptacle unit are provided inside the one slot and

a welding that attaches the side-walls of the slot receptacle unit to the slot. The coupling module according to one of the items 1 to 6, wherein

one end of the connecting tubular member comprises

two slots, one side-wall of the slot receptacle unit is provided inside one of the two slots while another side-wall of the slot receptacle unit is provided inside another of the two slots, and

a welding that attaches the side-walls of the slot receptacle unit to the two slots. The coupling module according to one of the above- mentioned items, wherein

the end-portion coupler unit comprises

an end-portion receptacle unit, and

a welding that attaches a base portion of the end- portion receptacle to an end-portion of the connecting tubular member. The coupling module according to item 9, wherein

the slot receptacle unit further comprises a base portion that is provided between its two side-walls, and

a welding that attaches the base portion of the slot receptacle unit to a side-wall of the end-portion receptacle unit.

The coupling module according to one of the above- mentioned items, wherein

the slot comprises a load-bearing surface for receiving scaffolding tubular unit.

A coupling module for a scaffolding structure, the coupling module comprising

a connecting tubular member comprising at least one end portion, wherein the end portion comprises at least one slot,

at least one slot coupler unit, the slot coupler unit comprising

a base unit, wherein the base unit is provided inside the slot,

a welding that attaches at least one side-wall of the base unit to the slot, and

a slot receptacle unit that is pivotally attached to the base unit and that is provided for taking up a pivotally movable slot lever. The coupling module according to item 12, wherein the slot coupler unit further comprises

a slot lever that is pivotally attached to the slot receptacle unit, wherein

the slot coupler unit provides an open position and a closed position, in the open position, the slot receptacle unit and the slot lever are adapted for receiving a scaffolding tubular unit, and

in the closed position, the slot receptacle unit and the slot lever are adapted to engage the scaffolding tubular unit. The coupling module according to item 13, wherein

the slot coupler unit further comprises

a slot-locking device for locking the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. The coupling module according to item 14, wherein

the slot-locking device comprises a nut and bolt assembly. The coupling module according to one of the items 12 to 15, wherein

the slot coupler unit further comprises

a rivet for pivotally attaching the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. The coupling module according to one of the items 12 to 15, wherein

the slot coupler unit further comprises

a bolt and nut assembly for pivotally attaching the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit. The coupling module according to one of the items 12 to 17, wherein

one end of the connecting tubular member comprises

one slot, the side-walls of the base unit are provided inside the one slot and

a welding that attaches the side-walls of the base unit to the one slot. The coupling module according to one of the items 12 to 17, wherein

one end of the connecting tubular member comprises

two slots, one side-wall of the base unit is provided inside one of the two slots while another side- wall of the base unit is provided inside another of the two slots, and

a welding that attaches the side-walls of the base unit to the two slots.

The coupling module according to one of the items 12 to 19, wherein

the slot coupler unit further comprises

a rivet for pivotally attaching the slot receptacle unit to the base unit.

The coupling module according to one of the items 12 to 19, wherein

the slot coupler unit further comprises

a bolt and nut assembly for pivotally attaching the slot receptacle unit to the base unit. The coupling module according to one of the items 12 to 21, wherein

the slot coupler unit further comprises

an end-portion coupler unit, and

a welding that attaches the end-portion coupler unit to the connecting tubular member and that attaches the end-portion coupler unit to the slot coupler unit . scaffolding structure comprising

a plurality of scaffolding tubular units a plurality of coupling modules according to one of the above-mentioned items, the coupling module is provided for connecting to the scaffolding tubular unit. The scaffolding structure according to item 23 further comprising

at least one ring, the ring being welded to an external surface of a scaffolding tubular unit for supporting the coupling module. The scaffolding structure according to item 23 or 24 further comprising

at least one sleeve, the sleeve comprising two cylinders and a plate, wherein

each cylinder is joined to the plate and is provided for receiving a vertical scaffolding tubular unit. The scaffolding structure according to item 25, wherein the sleeve further comprises at least one clamp, the clamp is provided around a slit of the cylinder. The scaffolding structure according to item 23 or 24 further comprising

at least one sleeve, an external surface of the sleeve comprises at least one sleeve opening, wherein

a lower end of the sleeve is provided for receiving a lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit and for attaching to the lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit by welding,

an upper end of the sleeve is provided for receiving an upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit,

wherein the sleeve opening is provided for receiving a locking pin for locking the sleeve to a scaffolding opening of the upper scaffolding tubular unit. 28. The scaffolding structure according to item 23 or 24 further comprising

at least one sleeve, the sleeve comprises a collar that is attached to an external surface of the sleeve, the collar is provided between a lower end and an upper end of the sleeve, wherein

the lower end of the sleeve is provided for inserting in an upper part of a lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit such that the lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit supports the collar, and the upper end of the sleeve is provided for inserting in a lower part of an upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit such that the collar supports the upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit.

29. The scaffolding structure according to one of the items 23 to 28 further comprising

at least one height variable foot, the height variable foot is provided for supporting a vertical scaffolding tubular unit.

Although the above description contains much specificity, this should not be construed as limiting the scope of the embodiments but merely providing illustration of the foreseeable embodiments. The above stated advantages of the embodiments should not be construed especially as limiting the scope of the embodiments but merely to explain possible achievements if the described embodiments are put into practice. Thus, the scope of the embodiments should be determined by the claims and their equivalents, rather than by the examples given. numbers

module

connecting tubular member

double-coupler part

welding

hollow cylinder

end part

circular surface

welding

slot

welding

vertical tubular coupler

tubular coupler

horizontal tubular coupler ring

vertical scaffolding tube

receptacle unit

horizontal scaffolding tube horizontal scaffolding tube lever

welding

locking device

rivet

base portion

rivet

first elongated side-wall portion second elongated side-wall portion first end part

second end part tubular engagement surface hole

hole

first end part

second end part

tubular engagement surface hole

hole

end part

tubular engagement surface slot

hole

bolt

nut

head part

threaded end part

hole

jack base

connecting tubular member slot

coupler part

welding

a welding

receptacle unit

a receptacle unit

receptacle unit

base portion

elongated side-wall portion elongated side-wall portion base portion

0 rivet

0 sleeve

0a sleeve 110b sleeve

111 tube

112 upper cylinder

114 lower cylinder

116 flat plate

118 slit

119 welding

120 locking pin

122 ring clamp

124 ring clamp

126 welding

126a welding

126b welding

127 tube

128 supporting collar

130 hole

131 hole

133 sleeve

Claims

A coupling module for a scaffolding structure, the coupling module comprising

a connecting tubular member comprising

The coupling module according to claim 1 further comprising

3. The coupling module according to claim 1, wherein the slot coupler unit further comprises

a slot-locking device for locking the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit.

The coupling module according to claim 3, wherein the slot-locking device comprises a nut and bolt assembly

The coupling module according to claim 1 further comprising

a rivet for pivotally attaching the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit.

6. The coupling module according to claim 1 further comprises

a bolt and nut assembly for pivotally attaching the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit.

7. The coupling module according to claim 1, wherein

one end of the connecting tubular member comprises

a welding that attaches the side-walls of the slot receptacle unit to the slot.

8. The coupling module according to claim 1, wherein

one end of the connecting tubular member comprises

a welding that attaches the side-walls of the slot receptacle unit to the two slots.

9. The coupling module according to claim 1, wherein the end-portion coupler unit comprises

an end-portion receptacle unit, and

a welding that attaches a base portion of the end- portion receptacle to an end-portion of the connecting tubular member.

The coupling module according to claim 9, wherein the slot receptacle unit further comprises

a base portion that is provided between its two side-walls, and

The coupling module according to claim 1, wherein the slot comprises a load-bearing surface for receiving a scaffolding tubular unit.

A coupling module for a scaffolding structure, the coupling module comprising

at least one slot coupler unit, the slot coupler unit comprising

a base unit, wherein the base unit is provided inside the slot,

a slot receptacle unit that is pivotally attached to the base unit and that is provided for taking up a pivotally movable slot lever.

The coupling module according to claim 12, wherein the slot coupler unit further comprises

a slot lever that is pivotally attached to the slot receptacle unit, wherein

the slot coupler unit provides an open position and a closed position,

in the open position, the slot receptacle unit and the slot lever are adapted for receiving a scaffolding tubular unit, and

14. The coupling module according to claim 13, wherein

the slot coupler unit further comprises

a slot-locking device for locking the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit.

15. The coupling module according to claim 14, wherein

the slot-locking device comprises a nut and bolt assembly.

16. The coupling module according to claim 12, wherein

the slot coupler unit further comprises

a rivet for pivotally attaching the slot lever to the slot receptacle unit.

17. The coupling module according to claim 12, wherein

the slot coupler unit further comprises

18. The coupling module according to claim 12, wherein

one end of the connecting tubular member comprises

one slot, the side-walls of the base unit are provided inside the one slot and a welding that attaches the side-walls of the base unit to the one slot.

The coupling module according to claim 12, wherein one end of the connecting tubular member comprises

a welding that attaches the side-walls of the base unit to the two slots.

a rivet for pivotally attaching the slot receptacle unit to the base unit.

a bolt and nut assembly for pivotally attaching the slot receptacle unit to the base unit.

an end-portion coupler unit, and

a welding that attaches the end-portion coupler unit to the connecting tubular member and that attaches the end-portion coupler unit to the slot coupler unit .

A scaffolding structure comprising

a plurality of scaffolding tubular units and a plurality of coupling modules according to claim 1 or 12, the coupling module is provided for connecting to the scaffolding tubular unit.

24. The scaffolding structure according to claim 23 further comprising

at least one ring, the ring being welded to an external surface of a scaffolding tubular unit for supporting the coupling module.

25. The scaffolding structure according to claim 23 further comprising

at least one sleeve, the sleeve comprising two cylinders and a plate, wherein

each cylinder is joined to the plate and is provided for receiving a vertical scaffolding tubular unit.

26. The scaffolding structure according to claim 25, wherein the sleeve further comprises at least one clamp, the clamp is provided around a slit of the cylinder.

27. The scaffolding structure according to claim 23 further comprising

an upper end of the sleeve is provided for receiving an upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit, wherein the sleeve opening is provided for receiving a locking pin for locking the sleeve to a scaffolding opening of the upper scaffolding tubular unit. The scaffolding structure according to claim 23 further comprising

the lower end of the sleeve is provided for inserting in an upper part of a lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit such that the lower vertical scaffolding tubular unit supports the collar, and

the upper end of the sleeve is provided for inserting in a lower part of an upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit such that the collar supports the upper vertical scaffolding tubular unit.

The scaffolding structure according to claim 23 further comprising