MXPA02004872A - Rolled fabric dispensing apparatus and fall protection system and method. - Google Patents

Abstract

Apparatus for dispensing a rolled fabric across the width of at least two longitudinal structural supports. In some embodiments, apparatus which is capable of forming a fall protection system which conforms to OSHA standards when constructing metal insulated roof systems.

Description

LAMINATED FABRIC DISTRIBUTOR APPARATUS AND SYSTEM AND FALL PROTECTION METHOD FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention is concerned with an apparatus for distributing a laminated fabric across the width of at least two longitudinal structural supports and in particular embodiments, with a capable apparatus to form a fall protection system that conforms to OSHA standards when building insulated metal roof systems. BACKGROUND OF INVENTION Metal roof structures commonly consist of a series of spars extending parallel to each other from each side of a building to its roof peak. Longitudinal structural supports (for example, bar lattice girders or joists) are commonly mounted above and perpendicular to these spars in a similarly parallel manner. In a manner for constructing such a metal roof structure known as described, a fabric (eg, polyethylene) is first laminated to sheets on these enclosures. Then these sheets serve as a barrier against vapor in the metal roof structure. Once the insulation is installed on the fabric sheet, the insulation is secured in place with a hard roof laminate (commonly made of metal) attached to the upper surface or flange of the enclosures. Up to now, it has been known in the art to install fabric commercially to the upper part of the enclosures manually or by means of several moving or mobile support devices as illustrated in U.S. Patent No. 5,495,698. Manual installation often takes a lot of time and is labor intensive and gives rise to certain safety problems particularly during unusual weather conditions, such as high winds. Federal and State OSHA regulations have been approved to improve safety in this regard through the use of fall protection devices. In particular, the enclosures on which an insulation installer must work are commonly located at a considerable height above ground level. Because an installer is working at such heights, there is a substantial risk of both personal injury and death if an installer / worker falls from the roof surface. Several fall protection devices have been specifically designed to prevent such injuries or death from occurring. A prior art device as such is commercially available as Elaminator® and is employed by Owens Corning Fiberglass, Inc. and its various contractors to install insulated metal roof systems. It is believed that this slip protection system is disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,195,958 and includes a cantilever type structure (for example a metal plate or frame structure) extending from the frame of a fabric distributing device between the spacings of closing in a direction opposite to that of the fabric distribution direction, that is, commonly towards the worker / installer. Such a cantilever, in addition to supporting the sheet of roofing fabric as it is supplied with a roll, also serves as a means to prevent a worker from falling through that particular space (between two adjacent enclosures) within which a particular cantilever extends. This cantilever obtains an effective protection of bridges, but only in the place where the cantilever is located (that is, at the time of the fall). In addition, such a cantilever structure is rather large and troublesome and adds considerably to the weight and cost of the ceiling cloth distributor device. The installation of fabric, in general, can also be expensive when it requires extensive preparation (that is, adjustment of the machine) due to the large size of certain known devices used to install the laminated fabric. further, these known devices are often difficult to install, are designed to operate only in one direction along the length of an enclosure or must be separated and re-attached by means of an annoying process when the tensioning device (which drives the roll of roof fabric against the enclosure) arrives at a transversal support of enclosure. Additional time and expenses are added when additional annoying equipment must then be added for stock protection. In view of the foregoing, it is evident that there is a need in the art for a laminated fabric dispensing apparatus that overcomes the above disadvantages and that in certain embodiments, provides a slip protection system that conforms to OSHA standards and It is still easy to use without time and additional expenses. It is a purpose of this invention to satisfy this need in the art, as well as other needs that will be apparent to the skilled artisan once the following description is given.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a side plan view illustrating a laminated fabric dispenser known in the prior art as disclosed in the U.S. patent Do not. . Figure 1A is a three-dimensional view of a laminated fabric dispenser of the prior art as disclosed in co-pending US Patent Application Serial No. 09 / 511,305 filed on February 23, 2000 and entitled "Rolled Fabric. Dispensing Apparatus ". Figure 2 is a three-dimensional view of the dispenser of the prior art illustrated in Figure 1 shown on a typical roof structure. Figure 3 is a side plan view of a laminated fabric dispenser according to an embodiment of this invention. Figure 4 is a partial bottom view of a laminated fabric dispenser according to an embodiment of this invention. Figure 4A is an alternative embodiment of the laminated fabric dispenser illustrated in Figure 4. Figure 5 is a side plan view of a form of the laminated fabric dispenser according to this invention. Figure 5A alternative embodiment of the laminated fabric dispenser illustrated in Figure 5.

Figure 6 is a three-dimensional view of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 5. Figure 6A is a three-dimensional view of an alternative embodiment of the laminated fabric dispenser illustrated in Figure 6. Figure 7 is a top view of the embodiment of figure 6 shown in combination with a roll of fabric on a roof structure. Figure 8 is a partial bottom view of one embodiment of an optional stabilizer clamp according to the present invention. Figure 9 is a partial three-dimensional view of one embodiment of the fall protection system according to the present invention. Fig. 10 is a side plan view of an optional extension device constituting part of an embodiment of this invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN MODALITIES Figures 1, 1A and 2 (prior art) illustrate two well known and well-used commercial distributors 100 and 100 'successfully for applying a roll of fabric 90, such as high density woven polyethylene, over closures in a roof system. Generally speaking, the commercial dispenser 100 includes the frame member 104, the guide 106 to encompass the upper rim of an enclosure (or cross member) 6 with a minimum amount of friction and retention means of the fabric reel 108 to retain a roll of fabric 90 against the surface of the 5 rims of the enclosures 6. Provided as a means for propelling the roll against the flanges of the enclosure on which the cloth sheet 91 is applied (with or without adhesive or adhesive tape being applied first) is found the tensioning device 110. By means of 10 its drive spring, adjustable by means of a butterfly nut 114, the entire device 100 is secured to the upper surface of the enclosure flange via a sliding roller 102, urged upwards v. by the coil spring against the bottom surface 15 of the flange. For convenience, only the enclosure 6 and the transverse support member 70 are shown in Figure 1. Figure 1A is an improved commercialized embodiment of the dispenser in Figure 1 currently in use 20 successful. Its two main improvements are its ability to be easily adapted to an enclosure flange extending to the left via its "H" shaped construction at 80 ', 82', 83 'and its low profile plate 30' that allows a continuous distribution despite the presence of 25 the enclosing transverse elements 70 '.

As illustrated in Figure 2, the typical roof structure 2 experienced in practice, typically includes a plurality of parallel enclosures 6, also as transverse support elements 70. As shown in Figure 1, the enclosures 6 are conventionally formed in the form of * Z "in cross section and include a vertical reinforcing portion 10, which connects an upper flange 8 to a lower flange 12, each of which extends perpendicularly from the reinforcing portion. 10. The enclosures 6 can be installed in the roof structure to have their upper flanges 8 (for example) oriented in the same direction or in opposite directions.Other types of enclosures are known, however, and are contemplated from the field of use of the enclosures. The present invention When the prior art dispenser 100 is used and the dispenser is mounted in place in an enclosure 6 for distributing fabric 90, as illustrated in Figure 1, the tensioning device 110 drives the sliding wheel 102 against the inner surface of the upper horizontal flange 8. In turn, this driving force serves to retain the guide 106 and a roll of fabric 90 (FIG. via coupling means 108) firmly against the upper surface of the upper horizontal flange 8. In order to distribute the roll of fabric to a sheet 91 which extends through the enclosures when residing on top of the flanges 8, the traction post 112, shown inserted in the frame 104, can be used to drive the distributor 100 along the length of the enclosure S 6, thereby unrolling the fabric 90 on the upper surface of the roof structure 2 (top flange 8). A similar function is used by the distributor 100 ', as can be seen in Figure 1A, whose v. The low profile sliding mechanism 30 'avoids the majority of the transverse elements 70' which interfere with the continuous operation of the distributor 100 '. Referring again to Figure 2, a typical metal roof structure, indicated in general v., Is illustrated. with the number 2. This figure helps to show the problems 15 with the dispenser 100 (or 100 ') when faced with such a popular roof structure and further serves to highlight the improvements of the invention herein. Generally speaking, the roof structure 2, as illustrated, includes stringers 4 that are fixed in parallel array 20 and extend from one side of the roof structure 2 to the roof spike as indicated by the number 5. In practice , the spar 4 can be spaced as shown or at other times, spaced more widely. Commonly, such spacing is approximately 7.62 m 25 (25 ft.) From center line to center line with respect to these stringers 4. Enclosures 6 (or in other embodiments, lattice girders) are fixedly attached via their lower horizontal flange 12 a, and on top of the stringers 4 in a perpendicular configuration. They are normally spaced at a distance of 1.52 m (5 feet) from center line to center line in a substantially parallel manner. Of course, sometimes, another spacing is employed. In addition, the upper horizontal ridges 8 of the enclosures 6 do not always extend in the same direction. In some cases, for example, the enclosures 6 can be installed with the upper horizontal flanges 8 extending towards and away from the roof peak 5 (for example, both in right and left relation to the forward direction that the distributor takes when distributing the fabric, see figure 1A at 6 'and 8'). Transverse support elements (ie, spacer elements) 70 (or 70 ') are provided and are attached to the adjacent vertical reinforcing portions 10 of the enclosures 6. (covering the distance between two parallel enclosures) to provide additional resistance to the roof structure 2. The use of transverse support elements 70 presents the problem referred to above, which is associated with the distributor 100 and which is overcome by the distributor 200 of this invention and the distributor 100 'of the figure 1A. As best shown in Figure 1, the wheel 102 of the prior art dispenser 100 enters interfering, obstructive contact with the transverse support bearing 70 during the dispensing process. This necessitates the separation of the distributor 100 each time a transverse support element 70 is reached. The magnitude of this problem is enhanced by the time-consuming and annoying manner of the separation process. As can be seen, each time the dispenser 100 is to be mounted or removed to or from an enclosure, the wing nut 114 must be adjusted (ie, screwed up) a sufficient distance to allow the large sliding wheel 102 it is withdrawn from below the flange 8, which includes its flange 8a and then readjusted after separating the transverse element, at the appropriate tension, each time a transverse element obstructs the path of the distributor. In addition, as another problem, each time an enclosing flange extends in a different direction, the device must be pulled in a different direction or another device having the sliding element on the other side of the frame member 104 put into service . As can be seen in Figure 1A, both of these problems are overcome by the prior art device through the use of a low profile mechanism 30 'and a tubular configuration in the form of "H" in 80', 81 ' , 82 'and 83' which allows the change of the plate element 30 'and its attached spring construction, from side A to side B as desired. Both of these problems are again solved by the present invention through the use of a single distributor structure which will be described in greater detail in the following paragraphs. Generally speaking, however, and with particular reference to Figs. 3-10, a single distributor 200 is provided which is capable of distributing along the flat length of an enclosure 6 without the need for removal after finding a supporting element. transverse 70 and which is also capable of distributing in any direction along the length of an enclosure independently of the orientation of the upper flange of the enclosure 8. In addition, the distributor 200 is able to fix itself in a desired position on a roof surface and to prevent undesirable unwinding of the fabric from the rolls 90. Still with reference to figures 3-10, the distributor 200 includes in general a frame 203 and associated elements capable of retaining a roll of fabric 90 as well as to allow the distributor 200 to travel uniformly and without discomfort along the length of roof closing or other analogous building elements regardless of the presence of transverse elements 70 in the roof structure. Still further, certain other elements are provided which are capable of fixing the distributor 200 to an enclosure at a desired location thereon. More specifically and with particular reference to ^. Figure 3, the frame 203 has attached thereto a sub-frame 213 which includes two sets of arms 209 and 211, Each set is provided to support a single rotating metal cylinder (e.g., cylindrical rollers 205 and 207). In particular, the dispenser 200 carries rolls of fabric (that is, the roll of fabric 90 not shown in figure v 3 for convenience) on these cylinders where they are 15 relatively free to rotate during the fabric distribution operation. In the embodiment as illustrated, the set of arms 211 extends to a height greater than that of the arms 209. This serves to raise the roller 207 above the height of the roller 205 and thus helps 20 retaining the fabric roll 90 within the dispenser (due to its difficulty in pulling a roll of fabric 90 over the additional height of the roller 207). To secure the roll 90 within the distributor 200 (see figure 5) and to further selectively secure 25 roll 90 against undesirable rotation (and so against 1 undesirable unwinding of the fabric), the driving brake plate 217 is provided. The brake plate 217 is preferably of a generally arcuate shape and is rotatably attached to the frame 203 via the rotating arm 215. 5 in order to urge the brake plate 217 against a roll of fabric (via arm 215) that is carried, tension spring 243 is provided and is attached to arm 215 at one end and at a site near frame 203 at its other end V - extreme. Arm 215 is of course rotary, of such 10 so that the brake plate 217 is able to maintain a continuous contact with the roll of fabric 90 even as the roll of fabric becomes smaller as the fabric is distributed. In addition, this revolving characteristic v allows the relatively easy loading and unloading of rolls of 15 as will be described later herein. As mentioned above, the brake plate 217 is urged against the fabric roll 90 (Figure 5) via the tension spring 243 which, in the illustrated embodiment, is attached at one end to the frame 203 and at its end 20 opposite the arm 215. A serrated plate 219 attached to the lower surface of the brake plate 217 is also optionally provided. In particular, the plate 19 is provided to increase the amount of friction between the surfaces of the fabric roll. 90 and the plate 25 brake 217 to maximize by this the capacity of the brake plate 217 to control the rotation of a roll of fabric. Although the plate 219 may be composed of any known material or combination of materials, examples of such plates may be formed from molded rubber, plastic, textured fabric and any other material suitable for supplying friction. . Specifically, this additional friction (such as between a roll of fabric 90 and the brake plate 217) helps to prevent the fabric roll 90 unwinding when it is not desired (for example, as it might otherwise occur if high winds). were present in a workplace). In certain exemplary embodiments, one such modality is illustrated in FIG. 6A, two are provided 15 brake plates, that is, brake plates 217 and 218 in order to retain (ie, push against) the fabric roll 90 in a more secure manner. Such an arrangement provides more surface contact area between the brake plates (217 and 218) and the roll 90 and so, of course, imparts more friction to the surface of the roll 90 for greater holding power. In certain additional embodiments, the rollers 205 and 207 are mounted at particularly desirable locations such that they are spaced a distance from each other that is less than that of the distance from the outside diameter of the core commonly of cloth roll cardboard that is used. (see figure 5). Since the outer diameter of the roll core 90 is usually approximately 12.7 cm (5 inches), a typical spacing 5 for the rolls 205 and 207 is approximately 10.16 cm (4 inches) (this is, the distance between the rollers as mounted on the sub-frame member 213 is approximately 10.26 cm (4 inches)). In particular, this specific spacing of the rollers 205 and 207 prevents the roll 90 from falling between the rollers as the roll 90 becomes smaller as the fabric is distributed (ie, as sheet 91). It is contemplated of course that any number of v. . rollers can be used (spaced to any variety of 15 distances) in the practice of the present invention, the main purpose is to rotatably support the fabric roll 90 as the fabric is stocked. Still in further alternative embodiments of the present invention, the rollers 205 and 207 can be replaced by an elongated and generally arcuate metal sheet that is welded or mechanically fastened (or otherwise fixedly attached) to the fastener element. frame 203. The shape of such an arched sheet should be such that it can accommodate a variety of roll sizes and still carry a roll of fabric 90 and allow it to rotate therein as the size of the roll decreases during the roll. distribution. In order that the distributor 200 easily travels along a surface of a roof structure, two rollers 221 and 223 are provided mounted on the front and back of the distributor structure (see, for example, Figures 3 and 6). In the "illustrated embodiment, these rollers are of the conventional type such as rollers commonly used in boat trailers. In the alternative, these rollers can be of any design, material or construction insofar as they allow the distributor 200 to be easily advanced along a roof surface. In this regard, the roller 223 v. can be mounted by conventional means close to 15 the front of the frame 203 with the roller 221 mounted by similar means towards the rear of the distributor 200 and close to the sub-frame 213. Specifically, the use of the rolls 221 and 223 solves one of the problems of the prior art discussed 20 above. In particular, because these rollers support the distributor 200 when rolling on top of an enclosure (that is, on the upper surface of an upper enclosing flange), no transverse support element 70 is in the path of the rollers and Here, the distributor can travel the entire length of a roof structure without having to be removed. Still further, because the rollers 221 and 222 do not interact with or depend on a particular orientation of the enclosure flange 8, the dispenser 200 may distribute in any direction along any given enclosure. In the fabric distribution process, it is desirable that a distributor, such as the distributor 200, be able to maintain itself in a desired position (e.g., forward) on a roof surface and not have a tendency to reverse. in the direction, that is, opposite to that in the distribution. For example, winds or other forces can trap the fabric sheet 91 (which is distributed from the fabric roll 90) and tend to pull the fabric distributor from its desired location or desired position on a roof surface (ie, in the reverse direction of distribution). Accordingly, an anti-inversion brake structure 220 is optionally provided in the present invention which prevents the dispenser 200 from being pulled back in a direction opposite to that of the proposed direction of the distribution. Such a brake structure also serves as an integral part of the fall protection system which is described in detail hereinafter.

Referring now in particular to Figure 4, one embodiment of the anti-inversion brake structure 220 is illustrated and generally consists of two metal cylinders 225 and 227, which, as shown are mounted eccentrically (ie, mounted far apart). from the center) in a rotating manner to the trees 229 and 231 respectively. Preferably, these cylinders have a granular outer surface (i.e., surfaces 226a and 226b) for better grip and thus better anti-retracting holding power. In order to retain the cylinders 225 and 22"at a relatively fixed location (around the shafts 229 and 231) when the distributor is at rest, two springs 233 and 235 are provided which are attached to each cylinder respectively and to a common site 237 in the crossbar 241. Normally, if the cylinders 225 and 227 are caused to rotate around the shafts 229 and 231, the springs 233 and 235 will tend to pull or return these cylinders back to their original position. The granular external surfaces 226a and 226b can of course be replaced by any material capable of holding an appropriate surface of an enclosure. Also, although optionally located close to the outer walls of the cylinders 225 and 227 are cylinder engagement rollers 230 and 232 which serve to restrict the rotational movement of the cylinders 225 and 227 around the shafts 229 and 231. In in particular, the cylinder coupling rollers 230 and 232 are simply provided in such a way that the cylinders 225 and 227 are always oriented with a slight backward angle of rotation against the force of the springs 233 and 235 before the distributor 200 be mounted on an enclosure 6. .. ". In still a further alternative embodiment of the anti-inversion brake structure 220 (illustrated in 10 Fig. 4A), the crossbar 241 is constructed in such a way that the arms can be extended or shortened to thereby increase or decrease the distance between the innermost walls of the cylinders 225 and 227. The bar v. Transverse 241 is built to be adjustable, to this 15 respect, because you can find enclosures that are not of uniform width. Similarly, it may be desirable to operate the distributor 200 on building elements that are not enclosures, such as for example lattice girders. In such situations, the arms 241a and 20 241b can simply be adjusted by sliding the arms further in and out of the base portion of the transverse bar 241 to thereby increase or decrease the passage size of the enclosure. After adjustment of the arms to the appropriate / desired lengths, 25 the arms 241a and 241b can be effectively fixed in position by the use of fixing bolts 241c and 241d inserted through openings (illustrated but not numbered) in each also as in the base portion of the crossbar 241. When a mode of the dispenser 200 including the anti-inversion brake structure 220 is put into operation, an enclosure 6 or other roof structural element is disposed between the cylinders 225 and 227. If the dispenser 200 is advanced in the typical forward direction ( that is, in the direction of the roller 223), then as the preferably granular outer walls of the cylinders 225 and 227 engage the enclosing surface 6, the cylinders will be caused to rotate about their respective axes 229 and 231 respectively. , thereby releasing the enclosure 6 and allowing the passage of enclosure 6 between them (that is, by effectively increasing the distance of a wall of the enclosure 6). lindro to the projection due to the rotation of the cylinders in combination with the eccentric mounting arrangement). In effect, as the distributor 200 is moved forward, the walls of the cylinder rotate away from each other (around the shafts 229 and 232), thus increasing the width of the passage of the enclosure and allowing the forward movement of the distributor 200. 2 However, if an attempt is made or a force is imparted that seeks to move the distributor 200 in a reverse direction to the distribution, the cylinders 225 and 227 will be caused to rotate about their eccentric pivot points (ie, the shafts 229 and 231), but this time in the opposite direction. Due to their eccentric attachment to the shafts 229 and 231, the cylinders will then engage the side surfaces of the enclosure (or other construction element) with sufficient force to prevent reverse travel of the distributor. This is because as the cylinders rotate when an attempt is made to move the distributor 200 in a reverse direction, the distance between the two cylinders 225 and 227 decreases (as the walls rotate towards each other) thus closing indeed the passage otherwise open. If a continuous attempt is made to move the distributor 200 in a reverse direction, the abrasive (granular) walls of the cylinders 225 and 227 will simply bite harder to the side surfaces of the enclosure 6. Thus, with the brake structure described above of the illustrated modality, it is effectively prohibited that the distributor is moving in the wrong direction on the enclosures. It is through the use of this brake structure 220 in combination with the booster brake plate 217 (and 2 in some embodiments, the optional brake plate 216) described hereinabove the distributor 200 is capable of completing a full safety fall protection system that is capable of conforming to OSHA standards (see Figure 9) without add the additional weight and expense typical of the prior art systems. Specifically, the distributor 200 is capable of sufficiently securing a fabric layer 91 such that the layer is able to conform to the OSHA safety net fall protection standard as listed in section 1926.502c 29 C.F.R. In particular, in order to conform to this standard, a net tubular fall protection system must be able to withstand the force of a weight of 181.4 g (400 pounds) dropped from a height of at least 106.7 cm ( 42 inches). In addition, the weight that is dropped must not have a diameter greater than 76.2 cm (30 inches) +/- 5.1 cm (2 inches). Such tests have been carried out on a layer of fabric sheet 91 secured with the distributor 200 with such a layer being able to withstand the dropped weight of 181.4 kg (400 pounds) WW "from a height of at least 106.7 cm (42 inches) ) as illustrated by the distance "X" in Figure 9. It should be noted, of course, that the particular strength of a used fabric is critical in such a way that a proof of such frs must be taken into account. When the system described above is used as protection of bribes, the fabric used in the tests mentioned above is a conventional high density woven polyethylene fabric, such system as disclosed in the present application is capable of conforming to Such proof is due to the particular effectiveness of the anti-inversion brake structure 220 in securing the distributor 200 at a given location 10 over an enclosure 6 (and preventing it from being pulled in a reverse direction. or backward when an object is dropped on the fabric) and further because the brake plate 217 (or brake plates 217 and 218 in combination) is / -v, particularly effective to prevent undesirable rotation 15 of the roll of fabric 90. It will be noted here, of course, that although the front end of the fabric is secured by the distributor 200, the rear end is secured by the installation and conventional securing of the metal laminate layer ". ML "shown in Fig. 9. Now returning to an example of how to put into operation the present invention (both as a distributor and a way to build a fall protection system), the distributor 200 can simply be lifted to the operating position by placing the distributor 200 in such a way that the rollers 223 and 221 are at rest on the upper surface of an enclosure 6 (or other analogous construction element) as shown in Figure 7. In this position, the cylinders 225 and 227 are located at a distance slightly below the horizontal plane of these rollers, such that cylinders 225 and 227 will encompass (with the force of the springs) 233 and 235) the respective sides of the enclosure. In certain embodiments of the present invention as illustrated in FIG. 8, the stabilizing clamp 301 is optionally included to provide additional stability to the dispenser 200 before a roll 90 is loaded onto the rollers. In the present embodiment, the stabilizing clamp 301 is rotatably mounted to the underside of the subframe 213 and includes an adjustable stabilizing roller 305 at the end of which a stabilizing plate 303 is fixedly attached. Also attached to the sub-frame 213, parallel but opposite to the orientation to that of the adjustable stabilizer plate 303, is the stationary stabilizing plate 309. Between the plates 303 and 309 there is then a space for the passage of a construction element, that is, such as an enclosure 6 between them. In order to operate the stabilizing clamp 301, the lever 307 is used to move the stabilizing plate 303 in engagement with one side or surface of an enclosure 6 while the stationary stabilizing plate 309 engages with the other side of the enclosure . In this way, the distributor 200 is effectively fastened to the enclosure and thus becomes more stable S when it rests on the enclosures before a roll of fabric 90 is loaded thereon. Once the distributor 200 is in place on the roof structure (and in some embodiments the stabilizing bracket 301 is engaged) a roll of fabric can be loaded onto the distributor. This can be done by lifting only the brake plate 217 (and arm 215) against the force of the tension spring 243. In one embodiment of the present invention, the brake plate 217 can be locked in place in the position open using a fixing bar 251 (see figure 6 and 6A). The fixing bar 251 is simply a metal rod with portions extending angularly at each end which is rotatably attached substantially parallel to the arm 215 via conventional clamps. Once the brake plate 217 (and arm 217) is raised a sufficient distance against the force of the spring 243, the brake plate can be locked in place in the open position by simply rotating the end of the brake rod. fastening 251 'in engagement with the fastening bar 249. Once the end 251' is in engagement with the fastening plate 249, the brake plate 217 (and in some embodiments the plate 218) and the arm 215 are locked in place. the open position / roll loading against the force of the spring 243. At this time, a roll of fabric 90 can simply be placed on the rollers 205 and 207 and the brake plate 217 and the arm 215 released (via the end release 251 'of the fixing bar 251). Once this is done, the brake plate 217 must be in engagement with the fabric roll 90. At this time, it is also appropriate to release the stabilizing clamp 301 (that is, by putting the pivoting lever 307 into operation in the open position) in preparation for distribution. After this, in order to begin the process of distributing roof fabric at one end / side of the building structure, the loose or rear end of the fabric roll 90 is initially unwound and secured (for example, by adhesive tape). ) to the enclosure of the end (or angle of inclination) located at the end / side of the construction from which the distribution will begin. In order that an initial portion of fabric 90 be more easily unwound, the brake plate 217 can be manually lifted to release the braking pressure on the fabric roll. Then the whole apparatus can be pushed forward, using the post of 2 push 253 as shown in Figure 9, to distribute the fabric as the sheet 91. As the dispenser 200 is pushed forward, it simply rolls along the upper surface of the enclosure 6 on the rollers 221 5 and 223. In order to ensure that the push-up post 253 can be easily reached (that is, it is at an attainable height) the angular adapter 255 is provided which is simply inserted into an opening of the frame member 203 (see Figures 9 and 10) . Then, the push post 253 can be inserted to the opposite end of the adapter 255 thereby making the push post 253 angular to a much lower height. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figures 5, 6 and 6A, it can be 15 provide (optionally) an arm structure 247 and cylindrical roller with associated pad 245 so located and attached to the frame member 203 such that it is capable of urging the sheet of cloth 91 against a surface of the roof structure as the sheet is stocked (to ensure that the fabric is laid in a substantially flat manner). In particular, the arm v 247 is rotatably attached to the frame 203 (so that it can be lifted out of the way in order to load a roll of fabric 90 and will be adjusted as the roll 90 becomes smaller) and it is of sufficient weight in combination with the pad roller 245 to passively drive the fabric sheet 91 (via gravity) against a surface of the roof structure without the need for external forces. However, it is contemplated that in some alternative embodiments, it may be desirable to use a spring or other device to provide an active driving force. In still another embodiment (Figure 5), the fixing plate 248 is provided which can be positioned in place, both by tightening the wing nut 250, for example, against the flange 247 'located on the arm 247, during the distribution of the fabric when the arm 247 is in contact with the fabric sheet 91 (that is, in the "drive" position). When the fixing plate 248 is oriented as illustrated (against the flange 247 '), the fixing plate 248 retains the arm 247 securely against the surface of the fabric sheet 91 even during high winds or other disruptive forces. In still a further embodiment (illustrated in Figure 5A), a retaining hook 214 is provided which is rotatably attached, in one embodiment (via pivot 216) to or close to the subframe 213. The retaining hook 214 is provided in such a way that it can be positioned below a surface of the upper flange of the enclosure 8. Thus, if a disruptive force is applied to the dispenser 200 (such as by an object that is dropped on the sheet 91 as the sheet is assorted), the retaining structure will help secure the dispenser 200 over the enclosure (through its contact with the lower surface of the enclosure flange 8). Then, during the operation (that is, during the distribution of the laminated fabric), rather than the roll of impeller cloth 90 against a closing surface 6 v '(as in prior art devices), the The distributor 200 includes a unique structure by means of which the fabric roll 90 is supported / carried above (ie, not in contact with) the enclosures 6. When using this carrying structure, which is not limited in the length of a roll that can carry, the dealer 15 200 is driven (e.g., via thrust post 253) along the length of a construction structure and the fabric is pulled (ie, distributed or stocked) from the fabric roll 90 to form the sheet or layer 91. In this way, the fabric layer 91 is installed through 20 the entire length of the construction to complete a barrier that retards the vapor in the insulated roof structure. As described above in this, some exemplary dispensers of the present invention 25 are capable of securing the fabric sheet 91 sufficiently well such that the layer formed by the sheet 91 (as it is distributed by certain embodiments of the dispenser 200) is capable of conforming to the standard OSHA for safety-type fall protection listed in 29 CFR Section 1926.502c. In particular, once the first end or starting end of the fabric is secured at the beginning of the roof structure (for example, at the angle of inclination), such as by means of metal screws or adhesive tape or glue, for example , the first roof section is installed, as described above, by unwinding at least a first layer of insulation and then placing the so-called metal layer on top of the insulation layer. Once the metal laminate layer ML is in place (see figure 9), this layer is fixed by screws or other conventional means. It is at the completion of this first layer that the trailing end of the cloth sheet 91 becomes first sufficiently secured to meet the specific OSHA requirements. After this, each additionally installed roof section continues to secure the fabric sheet 91 as the installation advances through the upper part of the building structure. Still further, it is contemplated that by using certain embodiments of the present invention, the fabric sheet 91 can be secured in such a way that the sheet is able to support the weight of installed insulation batts without the need for other mechanical supports (e.g. bands, strips or cantilevers), such as are used in certain known roof systems of the prior art. Still further, during the installation of the fabric with the present invention, in certain embodiments there will be no need to secure the fabric sheet 91 to the surface of the enclosures with adhesive or other means (except in the 10 start end). In this regard, the fabric sheet 91 can be secured sufficiently in place (strong or falling) using the braking capabilities of the single distributor 200 to support the weight of the insulation, subsequently installed (the system as a whole is 15 secured after this in place when the metal roof or other type of laminate is secured to the enclosures with sheet screws or other conventional means). Similarly, the distributors of the present invention are capable of securing the sheet of 20 fabric 91 against the wind and / or other disruptive types of climate. Although the particular order for installing the elements of the roof sections as described herein is in general conventional by nature, it is the use of the single distributor 200 that allows the practice of the present invention as a fall protection system, in this regard, it conforms to the OSHA 29 CFR standard Section 1926.502c when used properly. This OSHA standard is incorporated herein by reference. In particular, as mentioned above, the brake plate 217 (or multiple brake plate 217 and 218) in combination with the anti-rollover braking structure 220 secure the front end of the fabric sheet 91, that is, by securing roll 90 in a fixed position and against rotation. This provides a relatively tight layer of fabric 91 that is capable of supporting (as required by the OSHA standard mentioned above) a weight of 181.44 Kg (400 pounds) WW "dropped from a height of at least 106.68 cm (42 inches) (the height indicated as distance "X" in Figure 9) Such a layer of course does not protect an installer falling from the side of a roof structure, nor does it protect an installer from falling through any area not covered by the fabric layer, that is, such as the area in front of or in front of the dispenser 200 as the fabric is unrolled on the roof structure.Therefore, complementary fall protection is required throughout. , such as harnesses and / or meshes should always be used to protect workers in those areas.In this respect, however, the invention constitutes a significant step forward in safety technique when replacing equipment cantilevered until now annoying, etc. with a plastic sheet that is part of the roof system itself. In certain additional embodiments of this invention, when multiple dispensers are employed as illustrated in FIG. 9, multiple chains 259 (as v 'seen in FIG. 5) may be attached to the opening 257. 10 to link each distributor 200. When linked, if a distributor falls from an enclosure, this safety feature can sometimes prevent the dislodged distributor from falling to the ground, because the distributor is' attached to the other distributors who are insured in 15 its place and because the chain will be caught in the enclosures that extend between the multiple distributors 200). Finally, in the distribution fabric, the distributors of this invention can be used to form the sheets in a variety of configurations, such as strongly stretched (laterally) through the enclosures 6 or in a manner of falling between the enclosures. , as taught in co-pending US Patent Application Serial No. 09 / 511,306, filed on February 23, 2000 and entitled ROLLED FABRIC DISPENSING METHOD, now US Patent No., the disclosure of which is incorporated in the present by reference. Once given the above disclosure, many other features, modifications and improvements will be evident to the experienced craftsman. Accordingly, such other features, modifications and improvements are considered part of this invention, the scope of which will be determined by the following claims. It is noted that, with regard to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims (34)

1. CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property: 1. A laminated fabric distributor device designed to apply a sheet of fabric from a roll of fabric through a surface of a construction structure that consists of at least one pair of longitudinally extending substantially parallel structural elements, the laminated fabric distributor device is characterized in that it comprises: a frame member; means for rotatingly supporting a roll of fabric; means for driving against a surface of a roll of fabric, thereby selectively preventing rotation of a roll of fabric when a roll is supported by such means to rotatably support a roll of fabric; means for movably supporting the laminated fabric distributor device on a surface of a construction structure and means for preventing reverse travel of the laminated fabric distributor device on such a construction structure. 2. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for preventing reverse travel comprise an anti-inversion brake. 3. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 2, characterized in that the anti-inversion brake comprises: a first tree and a second annexed tree next to the frame element; 10 a first cylinder and a second cylinder, each mounted eccentrically to the first and second shafts in a manner to allow the rotational movement of such cylinders around an axis of such shafts; ^ a first annex dock next to the element of 15 frame and the first cylinder and a second attached spring close to the frame member and the second cylinder; wherein a distance between the first cylinder and the second cylinder defines a space for the passage of a construction element between them. 4. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 3, characterized in that it further includes cylinder coupling rods located near a surface of the cylinders, for thereby orienting said cylinders at an angle of rotation against the force of such springs. 5. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 1, characterized in that said means for driving against a surface of a roll of fabric comprise: a first arm element having a first end and a second end, the first end is rotatably attached to the frame element; a first brake plate attached next to the second end of the first arm member and provided to contact a surface of a roll of fabric and spring means appended between the first arm member and the frame member for driving the plate brake against a surface of a roll of cloth. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 5, characterized in that the means for propelling against a surface of a roll of fabric further include: a second arm element having first and second ends and attached to the second end of the fabric; first arm element in an orientation substantially perpendicular thereto and a second brake plate for contacting a surface of a roll of fabric; wherein the first brake plate is attached to the first end of the second arm element and the second brake plate is attached to the second end of the second arm element. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 6, characterized in that the first and second brake plates have a generally arched construction and include a friction plate attached to its surface to contact a roll of fabric. 8. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 1, characterized in that it also comprises a mechanism for driving the fabric sheet, comprising: an arm structure rotatably attached to the frame element and an adjacent drive element near one end of the arm structure and capable of driving a sheet of fabric against a surface of a building structure as the sheet of fabric is stocked from a roll of fabric. The laminated fabric dispensing device according to claim 8, characterized in that it also includes a fixing mechanism for fixing the fabric sheet drive mechanism in a driving position, comprising: an attached fixing rod next to the element of frame; an attached flange plate proximal to the arm structure and positioned to selectively engage with the clamping bar; wherein said clamping bar can be rotated to a flange plate coupling to thereby secure the arm structure and consequently the driving element against a surface of a cloth sheet. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 9, characterized in that it further includes stabilizing means for securing the laminated fabric distributor to a surface of a construction structure. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 1, characterized in that the means for rotatably supporting a roll of fabric comprise at least a first and a second cylindrical roller. The laminated fabric dispensing device according to claim 11, characterized in that the first and second rollers are attached to a sub-frame member in such a way that the second roller is located at a higher elevation with respect to the first roller. . The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 12, characterized in that said means for movably supporting the laminated fabric dispensing device comprises a first and a second roller for contacting a surface of a building structure. 14. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 4, characterized in that said first and second cylinders have a granular outer surface. 15. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 14, characterized in that the anti-inversion brake is able to prevent reverse movement of the laminated fabric distributor device. 16. The laminated fabric dispensing device according to claim 8, characterized in that the driving element comprises a generally cylindrical roller. 17. The laminated fabric dispenser according to claim 10, characterized in that the stabilizing means comprise: a first stabilizing plate attached next to the frame element to be coupled with a construction structure element; a second stabilizing plate located opposite in orientation to the first stabilizing plate and usable for coupling with an element of a construction structure and an operating lever for using the position of the second stabilizing plate; S wherein the manipulation of the operating lever adjusts the position of the second stabilizing plate to engage or separate from an element of a construction structure. 18. A laminated fabric dispensing device 0 for applying a fabric sheet of a roll of fabric through a surface of a construction structure consisting of at least one pair of substantially parallel longitudinally extending structural elements, the device The laminated fabric distributor is capable of securing a first end of the fabric sheet in such a way that when a second opposite end of the second sheet of fabric is secured by sufficient means / the sheet is capable of supporting a weight of 181.44 Kg ( 400 pounds) dropped from a height of 106.68 cm (42 inches), the laminated fabric distributor device is characterized in that it comprises: a frame member; means for rotatingly supporting a roll of fabric; means for driving against a surface of a roll of fabric, to selectively prevent thereby the rotation of a roll of fabric when a roll is supported by means to rotatably support a roll of fabric; means for movably supporting the laminated fabric distributor device on a surface of a construction structure and an anti-inversion brake; wherein the anti-inversion brake and the means for propelling against a surface of a roll of fabric, in combination, they are able to secure such a first end of the fabric sheet to thereby form a layer of fabric which, when secured at the opposite second end, is capable of supporting a weight of 181.44 Kg (400 pounds) dropped from a height of 106.7 cm (42 inches). The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 18, characterized in that the anti-inversion brake comprises: a first and a second annex tree next to the frame element; a first and a second cylinder, each mounted eccentrically to the first and second shafts, in a manner to allow the rotary movement of the cylinders around an axis of such shafts; a first annex spring close to the frame member and the first cylinder and a second annex spring close to the frame member and the second cylinder; wherein a distance between the first cylinder and a second cylinder defines a space for the passage of a construction element between them. 20. The laminated fabric distributor device according to claim 3, characterized in that it also includes a rotationally attached retaining hook. 10 next to the frame element and located to be adjustable under a rim of an enclosure. 21. The laminated fabric dispenser according to claim 3, characterized in that v also includes a transversal element to append the 1S first and second trees to the frame member; the transverse member comprises arms extending from the frame member; wherein such arms are adjustable in length to thereby increase or decrease the distance 20 between the first and second cylinders. 22. A method of constructing a fall protection system in the manufacturing process of an insulated roof structure, characterized in that it comprises: securing a first end of roof fabric 25 using conventional mechanical means. securing a second end of roof fabric using the roof fabric distributor device in accordance with claim 1. 23. A method of constructing a flow protection system in the manufacturing process of an insulated roof structure, characterized because it comprises: securing a first end of the roof fabric using conventional mechanical means; - secure a second end of roof fabric 10 using the ceiling cloth distributor device according to claim 3. 24. A method of constructing a fall protection system in the manufacturing process of a ^ Isolated roof structure, characterized in that it comprises: 15 securing a first end of roof fabric using conventional mechanical means; securing a second end of roof fabric using the roof fabric distributor device in accordance with claim 6. 20 25. A method of a fall protection system in the manufacturing process of an insulated roof structure, characterized in that comprising: securing a first end of the roof fabric using conventional mechanical means; securing a second end of roof fabric using the roof fabric distributor device in accordance with claim 9. 26. The method of construction of a fall protection system in accordance with the claim 22, characterized in that the roof fabric is stocked from a roll of fabric and wherein such a roll of fabric is of a length comprising at least three enclosures. 27. The method of construction of a fall protection system in accordance with the claim 23, characterized in that the roof fabric is supplied from a roll of fabric and wherein the roll of fabric is of a length that spans at least three enclosures. 28. The method of construction of a fall protection system in accordance with the claim 26, characterized in that the roll of fabric is of a length that covers at least five enclosures. 29. The method of construction of a fall protection system in accordance with the claim 20 27, characterized in that the roll of fabric is of a length r comprising at least five enclosures. 30. A laminated fabric dispensing device for applying a sheet of fabric from a roll of fabric through a surface of a construction structure that 25 consists of at least one pair of substantially parallel longitudinally extending structural elements, the laminated fabric dispensing device is characterized in that it comprises: a frame member; 5 a plurality of cylindrical rollers for rotatably supporting a roll of fabric; a brake plate for driving against a surface of a roll of fabric, to selectively prevent thereby the rotation of a roll of fabric when a 10 roll is supported by cylindrical rollers; rollers for movably supporting the laminated fabric distributor device on a surface of a construction structure and an anti-inversion brake to prevent travel Inverse of the laminated fabric distributor device on the construction structure. 31. The method of construction of a fall protection system according to claim 22, characterized in that the roof fabric is a high density woven polyethylene fabric. The method of construction of a system of protection of broths according to claim 24, characterized in that the roof fabric is a woven polyethylene fabric of high density. 33. The method of construction of a system of protection of broths according to claim 26, characterized by the roof fabric is a high density woven polyethylene fabric. 34. A method of constructing a system of protection of bricks in the process of manufacturing an insulated roof structure, characterized in that it comprises: securing a first end of the roof fabric using conventional mechanical means; 10 securing a second end of roof fabric using the roof fabric distributor device in accordance with claim 30. v