JP7644089B2 - Monorail systems and associated scaffolding structures, systems, and methods of use - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to access systems, particularly systems designed to access the underside and side surfaces of large stationary structures. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to monorail systems used in combination with scaffolding structures, where additional scaffolding structures can be suspended from the monorail system and moved vertically and parallel to the monorail track relative to the structure to be accessed.

In the construction, repair, and restoration industries, it is often necessary to access the side and underside surfaces of structures being worked on, where accessing these surfaces from below (e.g. erecting standard scaffolding) is impractical or impossible. Some examples are bridges, and especially arch bridges, which span, for example, a gorge or river. Accessing the underside of these bridges is often difficult, both because scaffolding cannot be erected upwards from the ground, and because the presence of the arch (which creates a surface of constantly changing height) makes access even more difficult. The same is true for certain side surfaces.

Suspended scaffolding is known and may be used in certain cases to access such side and under surfaces. Suspended scaffolding comes with its own challenges. For example, it may not be practical or possible to suspend the scaffolding in a location that allows workers to access the required surface. The length of the surface may also be a limiting factor. If the structure being accessed spans a significant length, the amount of suspended scaffolding may require multiple assembly/disassembly to complete the entire job. Furthermore, especially in arched structures, the suspended scaffolding may need to have multiple levels, resulting in additional complexity and time in assembly/disassembly.

In view of the foregoing, it would therefore be advantageous to provide a system or structure that addresses one or more of the above-mentioned shortcomings or other problems.

In accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, a monorail assembly is provided herein.

In accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, a monorail system is provided herein.

In accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure, provided herein is a method for accessing a structure.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a monorail assembly. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the monorail assembly includes a first scaffolding system including at least one framework member that is an elongated structure having a bottom chord and a plurality of panel points along the bottom chord, at least one monorail beam, and at least one bracket structure secured to the at least one framework member at or around at least two panel points and configured to be secured to the at least one monorail beam.

In one embodiment, the at least one monorail beam does not contact the at least one framework member when secured to the at least one bracket structure. In another embodiment, the monorail assembly further includes at least one joist bracket connected to the at least one monorail beam and the at least one bracket structure. In yet another embodiment, the monorail assembly further includes at least one joist bracket, and the connection of the at least one monorail beam to the at least one framework member is achieved by connection of the at least one joist bracket and the at least one bracket structure. In another embodiment, the monorail assembly further includes at least one end stop secured to the at least one monorail beam.

According to one embodiment, the monorail assembly further includes at least two trolley structures, the at least two trolley structures being slidingly secured to the first scaffolding system and configured to secure the second scaffolding system. In one embodiment, the at least two trolley structures are slidingly secured to the at least one elongated structure. In another embodiment, the first scaffolding system includes at least two framework members.

In one embodiment, the present disclosure provides a monorail system. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the monorail system includes a first scaffolding system, a monorail assembly secured to the first scaffolding system and including at least one monorail beam, and a second scaffolding system suspended from the at least one monorail beam.

According to one embodiment, the second scaffolding system moves relative to the at least one monorail beam both laterally and vertically along the at least one monorail beam. In another embodiment, the first scaffolding system is a suspended articulated scaffolding system. In a further embodiment, the monorail assembly further comprises at least one bracket structure configured to be secured to the first scaffolding system. In yet another embodiment, the second scaffolding system is a monorail car. In another embodiment, the second scaffolding system is a suspended scaffold. In a further embodiment, the monorail assembly further comprises at least two trolley structures slidably secured to the first scaffolding system.

FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a scaffolding system containing multiple monorail systems according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1B is a detailed view of callout 1B of FIG. 1A. FIG. 2 is a side view of a monorail assembly secured to the underside of a scaffolding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of a joist bracket for use with a monorail assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3B is an exploded view of the joist bracket of FIG. 3A. FIG. 3C is a side perspective view of the assembled joist bracket of FIG. 3B. FIG. 2 is a side view of a monorail beam for use with a monorail assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4B is an end view of the monorail beam of FIG. FIG. 1 illustrates a side perspective view of a monorail beam and two monorail interface bracket assemblies according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5B illustrates a portion of FIG. 5A in greater detail. FIG. 13 is an exploded view illustrating assembly of a monorail interface bracket assembly onto a monorail beam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is an exploded view illustrating assembly of a monorail interface bracket assembly onto a monorail beam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5E is an end perspective view illustrating the assembled monorail interface bracket assembly of FIGS. 5C and 5D. FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an end stop for a monorail assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6B is an exploded view of the end stop of FIG. FIG. 6B is an end perspective view of the assembled end stop of FIG. 6A. FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a portion of a scaffolding system with joist brackets shown assembled prior to installation of a monorail beam according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7B is a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 7A with the monorail beam positioned in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7B is a detailed top perspective view of a portion of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7A with the monorail beam in place and showing attachment of the monorail beam to the joist brackets in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7D is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7C where the monorail beam is connected to a joist bracket in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a top perspective view illustrating the installation of an end stop according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7F is a top perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 7E with the end stop fully assembled. FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a monorail assembly secured to a portion of a suspended scaffolding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8B is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8A. FIG. 8B is a side perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 8A. FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an interconnect structure for use in a suspended scaffolding system according to the present disclosure. 10 is a top view of the interconnect structure of FIG. 9 in accordance with the present disclosure. 10 is a side view of the interconnect structure of FIG. 9 in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the interconnect structure of FIG. 9 in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an interconnection between an interconnect structure and a joist for use in a suspended scaffolding system according to the present disclosure; FIG. 14 is an exploded top perspective view of the interconnect of FIG. 13 in accordance with the present disclosure. FIG. 14B is a top perspective view of the view of FIG. 14A according to the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a single unit of the suspended scaffolding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of an interconnection between a deck and joists supporting a suspended scaffolding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16B is an exploded, reverse, top perspective view of the interconnect of FIG. 16A according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 16C is an enlarged top perspective view of the interconnect of FIG. 16B according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of a single unit of the suspended scaffolding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a second embodiment of a single unit of the suspended scaffolding system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a portion of a joist, interconnect structure, and deck retainer assembly for use in a suspended scaffolding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 19B is an exploded, close-up perspective view of the joist, interconnect structure, and deck retainer assembly of FIG. 19A in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 19B is a cross-sectional end view of a portion of a joist and deck retainer assembly, such as that shown in FIG. 19A, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a top perspective view of an embodiment of a work platform of a suspended scaffolding system in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 21 is a bottom perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 20 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 21 is a top perspective view of the portion of the work platform shown in FIG. 20 with a single unit of the work platform for the suspended scaffolding system shown prior to articulation in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 22 with the single unit undergoing articulation in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 24 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 23 with the single unit undergoing further articulation in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 25 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 24 with the single unit undergoing further articulation in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 22 with a single unit having completed articulation in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a joist and interconnect structure subassembly for use in a suspended scaffolding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a second embodiment of a joist and interconnect structure subassembly for use in a suspended scaffolding system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a third embodiment of a joist and interconnect structure subassembly for use in a suspended scaffolding system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a joist and interconnect structure subassembly for use in a suspended scaffolding system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a suspended scaffolding system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a top view of a second embodiment of a suspended scaffolding system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 illustrates a cross-sectional elevation view of a hanging scaffolding system suspended from a structure according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 illustrates a top perspective view of an interface between an interconnect structure and a suspension connector for use with a hanging scaffolding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 30B is a close-up view of the interface shown in FIG. 30A in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is an elevational cross-sectional view of an interconnection structure, a suspension connector, and a structure attachment device for use with a hanging scaffolding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 31B is an enlarged cross-sectional elevation view of the interconnection between the interconnect structure of FIG. 31A and a hanging connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of an auxiliary suspender mounting bracket for use with a hanging scaffolding system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 32B is a plan view of the auxiliary suspender mounting bracket of FIG. 32A. FIG. 32B is a front view of the auxiliary suspender mounting bracket of FIG. 32A. FIG. 32B is a side view of the auxiliary suspender mounting bracket of FIG. 32A. FIG. 13 is an elevational cross-sectional view illustrating the suspension of a work platform for a suspended scaffolding system from a structure via an auxiliary suspender mounting bracket according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 1 is an elevation view of an embodiment of a suspended scaffolding system for use in connection with an arch bridge, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is an elevation view of a second embodiment of a suspended scaffolding system for use in connection with an arch bridge, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 13 is an elevational view of a third embodiment of a suspended scaffolding system for use in relation to a structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 13 is a side perspective view of a second embodiment of a suspended scaffolding system for use in relation to a structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. 1B is a detailed view of callout 7 of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA in FIG. 1A. 1B is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB in FIG. 1A. FIG. 38 is a detailed view of callout 2 of FIG. 37. FIG. 38 is a detailed view of callout 3 of FIG. 37. FIG. 38 is a detailed view of callout 4 of FIG. 37. FIG. 38 is a detailed view of callout 5 of FIG. 37. FIG. 38 is a detailed view of callout 6 of FIG. 37. FIG. 1B is a detailed view of callout 1 of FIG. 1A. FIG. 45 is a detailed view of callout 1 of FIG. 44. This is a cross-sectional view taken along CC in Figure 44. FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional view taken along line DD of FIG. 1A.

Although certain preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be shown and described in detail, it should be understood that various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The scope of the present disclosure is in no way limited to the number of components constituting it, their materials, their shapes, their relative arrangements, etc., which are disclosed merely as examples of embodiments. The features and advantages of the present disclosure are illustrated in detail in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the drawings.

As a prelude to the detailed description, it should be noted that as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, articulation is defined as the ability to pivot and/or rotate about a pivot point or axis.

As used herein, the terms "single section," "unit," or "single unit," when used in reference to a scaffolding system, refer to a planar structure comprised of at least three corners and elongated members (e.g., joists, bars, frameworks, etc.) and other structures that support and define a flooring area. The terms "section" and/or "unit" may be used interchangeably. Moreover, it will be recognized that adjacent sections or units of a scaffolding system may share one or more components, for example, two adjacent sections of a scaffolding system may have a common corner or share a framework member.

1A is a schematic side view of multiple (specifically, three) monorail systems 700 used for a structure 90. Specifically, shown in FIG. 1A is a scaffolding system 100 containing multiple monorail assemblies 600 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 1B is a detailed view of callout 1B of FIG. 1A. Shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B is a structure 90, which in this embodiment is an arch bridge, but in further embodiments can be any structure to be accessed. Each arch 91 of the bridge includes three separate surfaces: two side surfaces 91a, 91b (not shown) and a lower (bottom) surface 91c. To access each of the three surfaces 91a, 91b, 91c, the bridge 90 includes four monorail assemblies 600 (two on each side of the bridge 90). Each of the monorail assemblies 600 is fixed to the lower portion of the scaffolding system 100, an exemplary embodiment of which is shown in FIG. 2.

The monorail assembly 600 is used to suspend additional scaffolding systems 800. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figures 1A-1B, a total of three scaffolding systems (one for accessing each of the three surfaces 91a, 91b, and 91c) are suspended from the monorail assembly 600. To access the side surfaces 91a, 91b, the scaffolding systems are suspended from a single monorail assembly 600 on either side of the bridge 90. That is, each of the scaffolding systems used to access the side surfaces 91a, 91b is suspended from a single monorail assembly 600. In contrast, the scaffolding system used to access the lower surface 91c is suspended from two monorail assemblies 600, such that the scaffolding system spans the width of the lower surface 91c and is supported at both ends.

Each monorail assembly (or a plurality of monorail assemblies) 600, the scaffolding system 100 to which the monorail assembly (or a plurality of assemblies) is attached, and the scaffolding system suspended from the monorail assembly (or a plurality of assemblies) together form a monorail system 700. Each monorail system 700 is operatively connected to a generator 720 to provide electrical power to the monorail system 700. The generator 720 provides electrical power to effect movement of the scaffolding system 700 both along and vertically to the monorail assembly (or a plurality of assemblies).

The monorail assembly 600 will not be described in further detail with reference to Figures 2-7F.

Monorail Assembly Figure 2 illustrates a monorail assembly 600. In the embodiment shown, the monorail assembly 600 is secured beneath the structure of the work platform system 100. The monorail assembly 600 includes a joist bracket 605, a monorail beam 630, a monorail joint bracket assembly 650, and end stops 680 (only one shown).

Joist Brackets Figures 3A-3C illustrate the joist brackets 605 in further detail. Each joist bracket 605 has two bracket plates 606. Each bracket plate 606 has a generally stepped configuration with a lower wall 607 generally perpendicular to a first intermediate wall 608, a second intermediate wall 609 generally perpendicular to the first intermediate wall 608, and an upper wall 610 generally perpendicular to the second intermediate wall 609. In the embodiment shown, the transitions 611 between the respective walls 607, 608, 609, 610 are rounded. However, in further embodiments, the transitions may be sharp or more gradual. The lower and upper walls 607, 610 each contain a plurality of openings 612, 614 therethrough, each of which may receive a bolt. As perhaps best seen in Figure 3B, the openings 614 are tunnel-like openings, i.e., the openings have a flange around them on one side. The plate 606 includes a further plurality of openings 613 each extending through at least a portion of the upper wall 610 and the first and second intermediate walls 608, 609. In the embodiment shown, each of the openings 613 of the further plurality of openings is square-shaped.

Referring specifically to FIG. 3B, when fastening the joist bracket 605 to the scaffolding frame member 30 of the scaffolding system 100, two bracket plates 606 are used. The bracket plates 606 are positioned on either side of the frame member and secured together using a number of bolts 615 and nuts 616.

In the embodiment shown, the scaffolding frame member 30 has a truss-like structure with an upper chord 32 and a lower chord 33, and includes a number of diagonal support members 38. The points where the two diagonal support members 38 meet along the chords 32, 33 are panel points 710. The joist brackets 605 are specifically designed to have a length that spans across at least two panel points 710, with each panel point 710 nested between the plates 606 aligned with an opening 613. The upper wall 610 of each bracket plate 606 sandwiches the diagonal support member 38 but does not press against or exert a force on the diagonal support member 38. The flanges of the tunnel-like openings 614 prevent the bracket plate 606 from clamping against the diagonal support member 38. Rather, the second intermediate wall 609 sits on and is supported by the lower chord 33.

It will be recognized that the exact dimensions and appearance of the bracket plate 606 and the joist bracket 605 as a whole may vary depending on the scaffolding system with which the joist bracket 605 is to be used. In particular, the presence of panel points, the distance between the panel points, and the shape of the chords may all influence the particular design of the joist bracket 605.

Monorail Beam Figures 4A and 4B illustrate an exemplary monorail beam 630. The monorail beam 630 is an I-beam having a central member 631 with flanges 632 extending down the length of the central member 631 in a direction generally perpendicular to the central member 631. The ends of the monorail beam 630 include a series of openings 635 that are used to secure various additional components of the monorail assembly 600, as described in more detail below.

Junction Bracket Assembly A junction bracket assembly 650 is used to join the monorail beams 630 together. Figures 5A-5E illustrate an exemplary junction bracket assembly 650 used in the present disclosure. Briefly, the junction bracket assembly 650 engages at least two of the openings 635 at one end of a first monorail beam 630 and at least two openings 635 on a second adjacent monorail beam 630. The junction bracket assembly 650 also secures the monorail beam 630 to the joist bracket 605.

5A-5E, each joint bracket assembly 650 includes a side plate 651, a spacer plate 657, and a safety plate clamp 658. As shown in FIG. 5C, the side plate 651 has two portions (a first portion 652 that contacts the lower surface of one of the flanges 632 of the monorail beam 630, and a second portion 653 that contacts the central member 631 of the monorail beam 630). The second portion 653 includes a first plurality of openings (not shown) and a second plurality of openings 642. When the side plate 651 is properly aligned with the monorail beam 630, the openings of the first plurality of openings are aligned to be coaxial with at least two openings 635 of the monorail beam 630. A bolt 661, secured in place by a nut 661a, passes through the coaxial opening and holds the side plate 651 to the monorail beam 630. As shown with reference to FIG. 7D, the openings of the second plurality of openings 642 align with additional openings 635 on the monorail beam 630 to receive pins to further secure the monorail beams 630 together.

When in the proper position, the first portion 652 presses against the underside of one of the flanges 632 of the monorail beam 630, with the spacer 654 lying flush with the flange 632 of the monorail beam 630. It will be appreciated that when the monorail beam 630 is connected to an adjacent monorail beam, the spacer 655 will likewise lie flush with the flange of a second adjacent monorail beam. A third spacer 656 is provided as a separate component on the side of the monorail beam 630 opposite the first portion 652. Each of the spacers 654, 655, 656 includes at least one opening 660, 667, and 668, respectively, therethrough that is configured to receive a bolt 670.

5E, the spacers 654, 655, 656 extend across the width of the first portion 652, increasing its height. The spacer plate 657 and safety plate clamp 658 then clamp around the upper flange 632 of the monorail beam 630, locking the joint bracket assembly 650 in place on the monorail beam 630. The spacer plate 657 has a generally planar rectangular structure having an opening 663 through its end that is coaxial with at least one opening 660 and 668 of the spacers 654 and 656, respectively, when positioned against the first portion 651.

The safety plate clamp 658 is similarly a generally planar rectangular structure having an opening 665 through an end and a flange extension 672. When positioned against the first portion 651, the opening 665 is coaxial with the opening 663 and at least one opening 660 of each of the spacer plates 657, the spacer 654, and the spacer 656, respectively. A bolt 670 extends through each of the coaxial openings 667, 663, and 660 and is secured by a nut 662 to complete the joint bracket assembly 650.

It will be appreciated that the structure of the joint bracket assembly 650 creates a space between the top of the flange 652 and the flange extension 672 of the safety plate clamp 658. As perhaps most clearly shown in FIG. 7C, that space receives the lower wall portion 607 of the joist bracket 605. When the joint bracket assembly 650 is positioned against the joist bracket 605, one of the openings 612 in the lower wall portion 607 will be coaxial with at least one opening 667 in the spacer 655. Bolts secured through the openings 612 and 667 secure the monorail beam 630 to the joist bracket 605 and, therefore, to the scaffolding system 100.

6A-6C illustrate an end stop 680. The end stop 680 has a very similar structure to the joint bracket assembly 650, and in fact reuses several components. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the end stop 680 includes a side plate 681, a spacer plate 687, and a safety plate clamp 688 that have substantially the same structure as the side plate 651, the spacer plate 657, and the safety plate clamp 658. The difference is that the joint bracket assembly 650 is fixed to a portion of the monorail beam 630, while the end stop 680 itself includes a stop portion 690 that is essentially a portion of the monorail beam 630' with an end plate 691 for stopping further movement of the structure along the monorail beam 630'.

7A-7F illustrate the assembly steps of an exemplary monorail assembly 600. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, the scaffolding system 100 is in position with the joist brackets 605a, 605b positioned opposite each other on opposing framework pieces. The monorail beam 630 is lowered into position, such as by a crane. Now looking at FIG. 7C, once the monorail beam 630 is in position with the lower wall portion 607 between the flange extension 672 and the flange 632 of the monorail beam, the bolts 670 secure the monorail beam 630 to the joist brackets 605 and thus to the scaffolding frame member 30. The monorail beam 630 is connected to both joist brackets 605a and 605b in the same manner.

As shown in FIG. 7D, two adjacent monorail beams 630 are in position relative to one another and secured using bolts 661, and pins 741 are inserted through the second plurality of openings 642 in the second portion 653 to further secure the adjacent monorail beams 630 to one another.

As shown in Figures 7E and 7F, once the final monorail beam 630 is in the proper position, end stops 680 are secured to the ends of the final monorail beam 630 using the same method to secure adjacent monorail beams 630 to each other.

Scaffolding System/Monorail Assembly Figures 8A-8C show in more detail the connection between the scaffolding system 100 and the monorail assembly 600. Joist brackets 605 are shown secured to the scaffolding frame members 30, each spanning two panel points 710. A second intermediate wall section 609 of plate 606 rests on the bottom chord 33 of the scaffolding frame member 30. The individual monorail beams 630 are connected to each other using joint bracket assemblies 650.

8A-8C, it will be appreciated that adjacent monorail beams 630 are secured to one another by two joint bracket assemblies 650 that are positioned as mirror images of one another. That is, for a given monorail beam joint, a first joint bracket assembly 650 is positioned relative to the monorail beam 630 with its side plate 651 pressed against a first side of the central member 631. A second joint bracket assembly 650 is positioned relative to the monorail beam 630 with its side plate 651 pressed against the other side of the central member 631. As a result, the side plates 651 share a common set of bolts 661 and pins 741.

Exemplary Scaffolding System Suspended Articulated Scaffolding System In the embodiment depicted herein, the monorail assembly 600 is shown secured to an exemplary scaffolding system, including a scaffolding frame member 30 having a top chord 32 and a bottom chord 33. Figures 9-34C further illustrate an exemplary scaffolding system including such a scaffolding frame member, which is a suspended articulated scaffolding system. However, it will be appreciated that in further embodiments, the monorail assembly 600 may be secured to any style of scaffolding system (and more preferably, any style of suspended scaffolding system).

Interconnect Structure Figure 9 illustrates an interconnect structure 10 for a suspended articulating scaffolding system. The interconnect structure 10, when attached to the scaffolding frame members 30 (see Figure 13), is configured to allow articulation of both the interconnect structure 10 and the scaffolding frame members 30. An interconnect structure is any structure that connects one or more joists or other elongated structural members (e.g., nodes, hinges, pivots, posts, columns, centers, shafts, or spindles, etc.).

The interconnect structure 10 includes a top element 11 and a bottom element 12 that are spaced apart at a distal end of the mid-section 15. The top element 11 and the bottom element 12 can be substantially planar in configuration and parallel to one another. In the embodiment shown, the top element 11 and the bottom element 12 are octagonal in plan view. In other embodiments, the top element 11 and the bottom element 12 can have other shapes (e.g., square, polygonal, circular, etc.).

The middle section 15 can be a cylindrical section, with the longitudinal axis of the middle section 15 perpendicular to the plane of the top element 11 and the bottom element 12. In the embodiment shown, the middle section 15 is a right circular cylinder. However, in alternative embodiments, the middle section 15 can have a different shape (e.g., any prism having polygonal faces, etc.). In FIG. 9, the lower portion of the middle section 15 has been removed for purposes of clarity, showing that the middle section 15 is hollow.

There are a number of openings 13, 14, each of which extends through both the top element 11 and the bottom element 12. The openings 13 (e.g., 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G, 13H) are interspersed on the top element 11 to provide various locations for connecting one (or more) scaffolding frame members 30 (see, e.g., FIG. 13). The openings 14 (e.g., 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 14E, 14F, 14G, 14H) are similarly spaced apart on the bottom element 12 such that each opening (e.g., 13A and 14A) is coaxial.

At the center of the top element 11 is a central opening 16. In some embodiments, the central opening 16 receives a hanging connector 80 (see, e.g., Figs. 29-33). In other embodiments, the central opening 16 receives a vertical support member 75 (see, e.g., Fig. 29). The central opening 16 can be generally cross-shaped in configuration due to its central opening area 19 with four slots 17 (e.g., 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D) extending therefrom. Transverse to and interconnected with each of the four slots 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D is a series of cross slots 18A, 18B, 18C, 18D, the usefulness of which will become apparent as discussed below. For added strength, a second reinforcing plate 20 is added to the underside of the upper element 11, with an opening on the top of the reinforcing plate 20 corresponding to the central opening 16 configuration and all associated openings (17, 18, 19). A handle 22 is optionally added to the side of the mid-section 15.

Figures 10, 11, and 12 show top, side, and bottom views of the same embodiment of the interconnect structure 10 shown in Figure 9. Figure 12 shows, among other things, a bottom opening 23 above the bottom element 12. In some embodiments, the bottom opening 23 receives a vertical support member (see, for example, Figure 29). The bottom surface of the reinforcing plate 20 can be seen in the bottom opening 23. A number of gussets 25 are attached to the reinforcing plate 20 and the interior surface of the mid-section 15, providing additional support to the interconnect structure 10.

Scaffolding Frame Members Figure 13 shows a top perspective view of the interconnection between a single interconnect structure 10 and a single scaffolding frame member 30, while Figures 14A and 14B show exploded and normal perspective close-up views, respectively, of a typical connection detail between an interconnect structure 10 and a scaffolding frame member 30. When used in a suspended articulated scaffolding system, the scaffolding frame members 30 are referred to as joists 30.

The joist 30 includes an upper element 32 and a bottom element 33. A plurality of diagonal support members 38 are interspersed between the elements 32 and 33. Each element 32, 33 is made from two L-shaped pieces of angle iron 39A, 39B. The elements 32, 33 can typically be identical in construction, except that the upper element 32 includes a connector hole 54A, 54B in its center (see, for example, Figures 16A, 16B). The joist 30 includes a first end 31A and a second end 31B. At either end 31A, 31B of both the upper element 32 and the bottom element 33, an upper connecting flange 35 and a lower connecting flange 36 extend. A connecting hole 37 passes through both the upper connecting flange 35 and the lower connecting flange 36. Thus, there are four upper connection flanges 35A, 35B, 35C, 35D; four lower connection flanges 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D. Thus, at the first end 31A, the upper connection flange 35A and the lower connection flange 36A (with connection holes 37A therethrough) extend from the upper element 32. Similarly, at the second end 31B of the upper element 32, the upper connection flange 35B and the lower connection flange 36B (with connection holes 37B therethrough) extend. Then, at the first end 31A of the lower element 33, the upper connection flange 35D and the lower connection flange 36D extend. A connection hole 37D passes through these connection flanges 35D, 36D. At the second end 31B of the joist 30, an upper connection flange 35C and a lower connection flange 36C (with connection holes 37C therethrough) extend from the lower element 33.

Additional locking holes 360A, 360B, 360C, 360D are similarly positioned on the connection flanges 35A, 35B, 35C, 35D within each of the connector holes 37A, 37B, 37C, 37D.

As Figures 14A and 14B more clearly show, the pin 40 can be installed through the connection hole 37 and the two corresponding top and bottom openings 13 and 14 of the interconnect structure 10. In this way, the joist 30 can be connected to the interconnect structure 10 in a virtually infinite number of ways (and angles). For example, the pin 40 can be installed through the upper connection flange 35A; through opening 13A; through the lower connection flange 36A (all of the first end 31A of the upper element 32); through the upper connection flange 35D; through opening 14A; and then through the lower connection flange 36D. In this scenario, the pin 40 also passes through the connection holes 37A and 37D. The pin 40 includes two roll pins 42 at its upper end. The lower sides of the two roll pins 42 act as stops, thereby preventing the pin 40 from sliding completely through the joist 30 and the interconnect structure 10. The upper roll pin 42 acts as a finger hold, allowing easy gripping and removal of the pin 40 from the joist 30 and interconnect structure 10.

The design of these various parts is such that free rotation of both the joists 30 and the interconnect structure 10 is permitted while they are connected together. Rotation arrow _R1 indicates the rotation of the joists 30, while rotation arrow _R2 indicates the rotation of the interconnect structure 10. These rotational capabilities of the joists 30 and the interconnect structure 10 provide, in part, the articulation capabilities of the present invention.

Free rotation of the joists 30 and interconnecting structures 10 is permitted, but such free rotation is limited when a section or unit of the modular space frame support system is assembled and ready for use. In some embodiments, free rotation is limited by at least one of the following: i) an additional (second) pin that will be positioned proximate to the periphery of at least one interconnecting structure; and ii) at least a portion of the work platform when the platform is positioned in an extended position relative to the interconnecting structures and joists.

In the particular embodiment shown, a second optional locking pin 40B can be added through locking holes 360A, 360C, 360D at the end of the joist 30 to lock the joist 30 and prevent articulation, if so desired. The locking pin 40B abuts a groove 24 on the interconnect structure 10. The grooves are located on both the top element 11 and the bottom element 12. Similarly, the locking pin 40B can include two additional roll pins 42, similar to pin 40.

The joist 30 shown in the figures is made from elements of a particular shape, but it should be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that other embodiments exist that provide aspects of the present invention. A joist is any elongated structural member adapted to bear or support a load, such as a bar joist, a truss, or formed steel (i.e., I-beam, C-beam, etc.). For example, the joist 30 in the figures may be generally referred to as a bar joist or an open web beam or joist. The joist 30 may also be made from formed steel (e.g., wide flange elements, narrow flange members, etc.) or other suitable shapes and materials.

The assembly of the interconnect structures 10 and joists 30 to form sections or units 115 of the modular space frame support system 100 is discussed in further detail below.

FIG. 15 shows a single section or unit 115 of a modular space frame support system 100 made using the interconnect structure 10 and the joists 30. Note that the four interconnect structures 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D are interconnected with the four joists 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D. FIG. 15 shows a single frame unit 115 that is square in plan view. It should be apparent to one skilled in the art that other shapes and configurations can also be made. For example, by varying the length of the joists 30, other shapes can be made. For example, a rectangular frame unit 115 can be constructed. Also, by attaching the joists 30 to various openings 13, 14 of the interconnect structure 10, various angles at which the joists 30 interconnect with the interconnect structure 10 can be realized. For example, a frame unit 115 (not shown) that is triangular in plan view can be constructed. Thus, by varying the joists 30 length (see, e.g., FIGS. 27A-27D) and/or the angle at which the joists 30 extend from the interconnecting structure 10, frame units 115 of virtually any shape and size, and the resulting modular space frame support system 100 and work platform system 200, can be constructed. Furthermore, frame sections or units 115 of different shapes, sizes, and configurations can be joined and abutted to one another, making the modular space frame support system design (and work platform system design) virtually completely customizable. This adaptability of the modular space frame support system 100 provides a convenient way to gain access to virtually any shape of work area required in construction.

16A, 16B, and 16C show various views and close-ups of the interconnection between the middle support deck joist 52 and the joist 30. The middle support deck joist 52 provides additional support to support the platform 50 (see, e.g., FIG. 17) and can span between the two joists 30. A pin 53 is at each end of the middle support deck joist 52, which communicates with a corresponding hole 54 on the upper portion of the joist 30. For example, FIG. 16B shows an exploded view of the interconnection, where the pin 53 goes into hole 54A. In this way, movement (both lateral and axial) of the middle support deck joist 52 is minimized.

17 shows an embodiment of the single frame section or unit 115 from FIG. 15, where a platform 50A is installed on the single frame unit 115, thus converting the single frame unit 115 into a single unit of the work platform system 200. In this embodiment, the platform 50A rests on the intermediate support deck joist 52A and on the joists 30A, 30B, 30D. The edge of the platform 50A rests on the top of the intermediate support deck joist 52 and can also rest on the angle irons 39A, 39B on the top of the applicable joists 30A, 30B, 30D. The configuration of the upper parts of the intermediate support deck joists 52 and the angle irons 39A, 39B is such that vertical and horizontal movement of the platform 50A is avoided. Work platform 50 is typically sized to be a 4"x8' piece of material. Work platform 50A can include, for example, wood panels 51A. A suitable work platform 50 can be made from metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.), wood, plastic, composite, or other suitable materials. Similarly, work platform 50 can be made from solid, corrugated, lattice, smooth, or other suitable configured items. For example, work platform 50 can be made from wood sheeting, plywood, roof decking material, atop a frame, or other suitable construction. metal, grating, steel sheeting, etc. Thus, after installing the first work platform 50A on the unit 115 of the modular space frame support system 100, the installer can continue in this manner, for example, as shown in FIG. 18, installing additional work platforms 50A, 50B, such that the entire upper frame 110 and/or lower frame 120 are covered by the wood platforms 51A, 51B, creating a complete work platform system 200.

19A, 19B, and 19C show various close-up views of additional optional features that may be used with the modular space frame support system 100 to form the work platform system 200. A deck retainer plate 60 may be installed over the gap between the work platforms 50. The deck retainer plate 60 may include a number of holes 62, allowing a number of deck retainer bolts 61 to attach the deck retainer plate 60 to the joists 30. The deck retainer plate 60 is one way to secure the work platforms 50 to the modular space frame support system 100.

As Figures 20 and 21 show, there is virtually no limit as to the size and shape of the modular space frame support system 100 and work platform system 200 that may be made in accordance with the present disclosure. Figures 20 and 21 show top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of one large rectangular embodiment of a single level modular space frame support system 100 with the work platform 50 in place to make the work platform system 200.

As noted above, one drawback of many existing work platforms is that they cannot be installed on-site, nor can they be repositioned, extended, or removed while a portion of the work platform is already installed in place. The present disclosure overcomes this drawback. That is, the modular space frame support system and the resulting work platform system allow a worker (or multiple workers) to add on additional sections of the modular space frame support system 100 (and, ultimately, the work platform system 200) while the worker is physically on top of an existing installed portion or unit of the modular space frame support system and/or the work platform system. That is, the worker is able to extend, reposition, or remove a portion of the work platform system 200 and/or the modular space frame support system 100 by requiring only hand tools. No mechanical tools, hoists, cranes, or other equipment are required to add to (remove from) or reposition the modular space frame support system 100. This advantage therefore offers savings in labor, time, and equipment.

22-26 show the incremental articulation of just one section or unit 115 of the modular space frame support system 100 as it is placed in place using the interconnect structure 10 and joists 30. This can be easily accomplished by one (or two) workers by simply sequentially installing additional joists 30D from the existing interconnect structure 10A. A "new" interconnect structure 10D is then connected to the first joist 30D. A second additional joist 30E is then connected to the interconnect structure 30D. Another interconnect structure 10E and joist 30F are then connected, with the final joist 30F being connected back to the existing interconnect structure 10B. In this way, workers can install a new section or unit of the modular space frame support system (e.g., consisting of "new" interconnection structures 10D, 10E and "new" joists 30D, 30E, 30F) from an existing section of the modular space frame support system (e.g., consisting of hubs 10A, 10B, 10C and joists 30A, 30B, among others). Workers can install (or reposition) the new section or unit of the modular space frame support system 100 while the worker remains on the existing section of the work platform 50. That is, no additional lifting equipment (machines) is required to install, reposition, or remove additional units or sections of the modular space frame support system as they are created using the interconnection structures 10 and joists 30.

Furthermore, installers do not need to extend beyond the existing installed frame units 115, or they only need to extend slightly beyond the installed frame units 115. For example, as shown in FIG. 22, installers can be on the existing work platforms 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D when repositioning (or installing) the next section of the modular space frame support system 100.

23-25 clearly show via the movement arrow "M", the combination of the rotation of the new joists 30D, 30E, 30F and the new interconnection structures 10D, 10E allows the new section or unit 115 of the modular space frame support system 100 to move and rotate to its final required location. That is, the units of the modular space frame support system 100 articulate into place. Furthermore, the articulation can be started and stopped (and even reversed) by the installer while the installer remains on the existing frame units and/or work platform system. Although not shown, additional auxiliary devices (e.g., motors, hand tools, mechanical tools, hydraulics, etc.) can be used to assist in the articulation.

Figure 26 shows a new section or unit 115 of the modular space frame support system 100 articulated into place prior to installation of the support platform 50 and any other pieces as discussed herein. Removal of a portion of the modular space frame support system 100 can be done by essentially reversing the steps described above.

Although the individual sections or units 115 of the modular space frame support system 100 (and ultimately the work platform support system 200) described with reference to Figures 15-26 are square, i.e., each individual section or unit 115 is made up of four interconnect structures 10 and four joists 30 as described above, in some embodiments, the individual units 115 of the modular space frame support system 100 can have different geometries and shapes. For example, Figures 27A, 27B, 27C, and 27D show various embodiments of joist 30 and interconnect structure 10 configurations. For example, Figure 27D shows a "standard" length joist 30A (e.g., 8 foot nominal length) with two interconnect structures 10A, 10B. This "standard" length joist 30A can be referred to as a "6/6 unit." FIG. 27C shows two joists 30A, 30B of equal length connected to the interconnect structure 10A, 10B, 10C. The joists 30A, 30B in FIG. 27C (which are half the length (respectively) of joist 30A in FIG. 27D) may be referred to as "3/6 units" in that they are half the length of the "6/6 units" mentioned above. Similarly, two unequal length joists 30A, 30B are shown in FIG. 27B and may be referred to as "2/6 units" and "4/6 units", respectively. This is because the "2/6 units" are approximately one-third the length of a "standard" "6/6 units" joist as shown in FIG. 27D, and similarly, the "4/6 units" are approximately two-thirds the length of a "6/6 units". The same system is shown in FIG. 27A, where the first joist 30A is referred to as "1/6 units" and the second joist 30B is referred to as "5/6 units". As noted above, by using joists 30 of different lengths and by extending joists 30 at different angles from the interconnect structure 10, an almost infinite variety of configurations and footprints of the modular space frame support system 100 and the resulting work platform system 200 can be obtained. For example, this variety allows the installer to set up the modular space frame support system 100 and the resulting work platform system 200 around a variety of obstacles (e.g., columns, piers, abutments, etc.) and structures. The variety allows the installer to generate numerous shapes for the work platform system other than simply rectangular.

With reference to the teachings herein (including at least Figs. 14A, 17, and 22-26), it is apparent that at least one of the joists will be connected to at least one of the interconnect structures using a pin to provide free rotation of the at least one joist relative to the at least one interconnect structure about the pin. Moreover, it is apparent that the free rotation is limited by at least one of the following: i) an additional pin that will be positioned proximate to the periphery of the at least one interconnect structure; and ii) at least a portion of the work platform when the platform is positioned relative to the interconnect structures and joists in the final position.

28A and 28B show plan views of only two embodiments of the present invention. In these figures, it can be seen that the work platform support system 100 is capable of various horizontal alignments. For example, FIG. 28A shows 8 foot long joists 30 interconnected by multiple hubs 10. Due to the spacing between the pins 40 and the hubs 10, some flexibility is provided in the system 100, allowing it to be curved (or "racked") horizontally. This can help allow the system 100 to be installed around a structure. FIG. 28B shows the system 100 at an angle. For example, joist 30C connected to hub 10C can be shorter than joist 30B connected to hub 10B, which in turn is shorter than joist 30A, which is connected to hub 10A. In this manner, by using joists 30A, 30B, 30C of different lengths and/or by changing the angle at which joists 30 are connected to hub 10, an angled system 100 can be constructed, as in FIG. 28B. This in turn allows system 100 to be installed around various obstacles, structures, etc., for example.

29 shows an elevational section of one embodiment in which the support system 100 and the work platform system 120 are attached to a structure 90 via hanging connectors 80. In this embodiment, the structure 90 is a bridge 90. There are multiple beams 92 on the underside of the bridge 90. A series of hanging connectors 80 (high strength chains in this embodiment) are attached to some of the beams 92 via structure attachment devices 82 (standard beam clamps in this embodiment). There are multiple handrail standards 85 on the periphery of the work platform system 120, thereby creating a handrail system around the work platform system 120. There are multiple chains 80 attached to various hubs 10 in the support system 100, thereby providing structural connections to the bridge 90. In this manner, the work platform system 120 and the support system 100 can be fully suspended from a suitable structure 90. Note that each hub 10 does not necessarily require a hanging connector 80 to be connected to the structure 90. For example, there is no suspension connector 80 connecting hub 10X to beam 92X. This may be because hub 10A is not aligned under beam 92X (or other suitable suspension point) and therefore it is either not possible or not desirable to use chain 80 in that location.

The suspension connector 80 can be any suitable support mechanism capable of supporting both the work platform system 120 (and all its associated static loads) and any intended dynamic loads to be placed on the work platform system 120. In fact, the work platform system 120 is capable of supporting at least four times the intended dynamic load to be placed on the work platform system 120 in addition to its own weight. Similarly, the suspension connector 80 is also suitable to support at least four times the intended dynamic load to be placed on it in addition to its own weight. The suspension connector 80 can be a high strength chain or cable. For example, one suitable suspension connector 80 is a 3/8" grade 100 heat treated alloy chain.

The suspension connector 80 is attached to a beam clamp 82, which is further attached to a number of elements 92 on the underside of the structure 90. The structure 90 can be a bridge, viaduct, or ceiling structure of a building. Similarly, the elements 92 to which the suspension connector 80 is attached can be beams, joists, or any other suitable structural elements of the structure 90. Other suitable structure attachment devices 82 can be used in place of the beam clamp 82.

30A, 30B, 31A, and 31B all show various views of the interconnection between the hanging connector 80 (e.g., chain, cable, etc.) and the hub 10. In the embodiment shown, the free end of the chain 80 (i.e., the distal end of the structure 90) is placed through the central opening area 19 of the top element 11 of the hub 10. The chain 80 is then slid over and into one of the four slots 17 (e.g., 17A). Once the chain 80 is placed in the slot 17A, a chain retainer pin 200 is placed in the adjacent transverse slot 18A such that the chain 80 remains held within the distal end of the slot 17A. The chain 80 and slot 17A are sized and configured such that, upon proper placement of the keeper pin 200 in the transverse slot 18A, the chain 80 is effectively locked to the hub 10 and cannot slide out (vertically or horizontally) from its position within 17A. This locking system effectively secures the hub 10 to the chain 80. As an added safety check, a zip tie 201 can be installed between the hole 202 in the chain retainer pin 200 and the adjacent link in the chain 80. This provides an additional visual aid to the installer to ensure that the chain retainer pin 200 is installed.

An alternative device for connecting the hanging connector 80 to the work platform support system 100 is the auxiliary suspender mounting bracket 300. The auxiliary mounting bracket 300 is typically used when a particular hub 10 cannot be accessed for connection with the hanging connector 80. As shown in various Figs. 32A, 32B, 32C, and 32D, one embodiment of the auxiliary suspender mounting bracket 300 includes two opposing parallel flanges 303. An interconnecting tube 304 and a base plate 302 span between the flanges 303. A plurality of mounting holes 305 pass through the base plate 302. The auxiliary suspender mounting bracket 300 can be used in place of or in addition to the hub 10 for a suspension point. The bracket 300 allows the hanging connector 80 to be connected to the system 100 at a location other than the hub 10.

For example, FIG. 33 illustrates a scenario that may be typically encountered when installing a work platform system 120. Note that FIG. 33 is not drawn to scale. One or more obstacles 95A may be located under the structure 90 or between the structure 90 and the work platform system 120. These obstacles 95A may be man-made or natural. For example, the obstacles 95A may be concrete beams, box beams, insufficiently sized framework, piping, lighting, and finished surfaces. The obstacles 95A may be such that a particular hub 10B is not practical (or possible) as a connection point for the system 120 to the suspension connector 80. In this case, one or more auxiliary suspender mounting brackets 300 may be attached to the joists 30. High strength bolts (not shown) can be threaded through mounting holes 305 and then through holes on the top of upper element 32 and connected to the bolts on the bottom of upper element 32 (see plate 60 connections in FIG. 19B for similar connection details). Suspension connectors 80 (e.g., chains) can be connected to beams 92 via beam clamps 82, which are on the underside of structure 90.

33, the obstruction 95B is directly above the hub 10B in the vertical direction, thereby making the hub 10B insufficient for a suspension point. Therefore, the bracket 300 can be attached to the joist 30 adjacent to the hub 10B, thereby allowing the suspension connector 80 to obtain a proper attachment to the nearby beam 92. The angle Φ between the suspension connector 80 and the vertical direction (indicated by V) allows the suspension connector 80 to be non-vertical or slightly off-vertical.

34A, 34B, and 34C show elevation views of various embodiments where the vertical flexibility of the present invention is evident. For example, FIG. 34A shows a portion of the work platform system 120 suspended from the non-flat underside of a structure 90 (e.g., an arch bridge). The suspension connectors 80 and other connection details are not shown for ease of illustration. Due to the design, there is flexibility in the interconnections between the hubs 10 and the joists 30. This flexibility allows for some bendability in the vertical direction (see, e.g., FIG. 34A). This allows, for example, the system 120 to parallel (or "mirror") the underside of a curved arch bridge.

Alternatively, if the support structure 90 has a greater curvature, a configuration such as that shown in FIG. 34B can be installed. That is, the portions of the system 120 are not flush, but rather stepped or tiered. If required, various lengths of the hanging connectors 80 can be installed so that multiple hubs 10A, 10B can be installed on the same hanging connector 80. As discussed above, the hanging connector 80 can be connected to the slot 17 of the upper hub 10A, then passed through the bottom opening 23 of the upper hub 10A, and then also connected to the slot 17 of the lower hub 10B (see, for example, FIGS. 30A, 30B).

As shown in FIG. 34C, another configuration of the present invention is the ability to install the system 120 in a multi-level configuration. For example, perhaps if work needs to be done on a vertical structure 99 (e.g., a pier), at least two systems 120A, 120B can be installed. Similar to the connection scenario used in FIG. 34B (above), the hanging connector 80 can again be of suitable length to pass from the hub 10A on the upper system 120 to the hub 10B on the lower system 120 and connect to it. In this way, multiple levels of the system 120 can be installed in a vertical orientation.

Suspended Scaffolding In the embodiment shown herein, the further scaffolding system 800 is shown for use as a monorail car movably attached to the monorail assembly 600, the further scaffolding system being a suspended scaffolding system. Figure 35 illustrates an exemplary suspended scaffolding system. However, it will be appreciated that in further embodiments, the monorail car 800 may be made from any form of scaffolding system, and preferably any form of suspended scaffolding system, including suspended articulated scaffolding systems as described above. Additionally, the terms "further scaffolding system", "second scaffolding system", and "monorail car" may be used interchangeably herein.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 35, the suspended scaffolding system 800 has a platform 810 formed from a frame 815 that supports flooring 820. A series of braced handrail members at least partially surround the platform.

Additional Components The scaffolding systems 100, 800 used in combination with the monorail assemblies of the present disclosure can include further additional components.

For example, in some embodiments, handrails, toe boards, tarps, sheets, gates, ladders, doors/entrances, wheels, bumpers, and other accessories may be used in combination with any of the scaffolding systems disclosed herein.

1A and 1B and 36-46, there are shown several embodiments of a monorail system 700. Each monorail system 700 includes a first scaffolding system 100, a monorail assembly 600 connected to the first scaffolding system 100, and a monorail car 800 made from a second scaffolding system. Specifically, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 36-46, there are three monorail systems 700. The first monorail system 700a includes a single monorail assembly 600a connected to the scaffolding system 100a, and a single monorail car 800a positioned outside the structure 90. A second monorail system 700b is positioned on the opposite side of structure 90 and includes a single monorail assembly 600b connected to scaffolding system 100b with a single monorail car 800b positioned outside of structure 90. A third monorail system 700c includes two monorail assemblies 600c, 600d connected to scaffolding systems 100a and 100b, respectively, with a single monorail car 800c extending below structure 90 with a first end of monorail car 800c operably coupled to first monorail assembly 600c and a second end of monorail car 800c operably coupled to second monorail assembly 600d.

A generator 720, located on the structure 90 or otherwise remote from the monorail system 700, provides power to the monorail cars 800 for their movement both along and vertically to their respective monorails.

Monorail systems 700a, 700b, and 700c will now be described in further detail.

Figure 36 is a detailed view of callout 7 of Figure 1A, again showing the connections of the monorail beams 630 to each other and to the scaffolding system 100.

Figure 37 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of Figure 1A, illustrating a third monorail system 700c. In the embodiment shown, two scaffolding systems 100a, 100b are provided. Each scaffolding system 100a, 100b is shown as a suspended articulated scaffolding system as described above, made up of a number of interconnected structures 10 and joists 30. Both scaffolding systems 100a, 100b are connected to the structure from above, allowing them to be suspended from and on the side closest to the structure 90.

Figure 39 is a detailed view of callout 2 of Figure 37, illustrating the connection of the scaffolding system 100 to the structure 90 described above. Specifically, a concrete anchor 830 (e.g., a threaded rod, etc.) is inserted into the underside of the structure 90. A rotating suspension point (e.g., such as that described in the co-pending application [to be filed before filing]) receives a chain 835, which connects to the interconnect structure 10 or other parts of the scaffolding system 100, as described in detail above with reference to Figures 29-32D. Figure 40 is a detailed view of callout 3 of Figure 37, illustrating such an exemplary connection.

41 and 42 illustrate an exemplary connection between the scaffolding system 100a, 100b and the side of the structure 90. As shown in FIG. 41, depending on the expected wind direction (if any), an adjustable tube 872 having a foot 873 at its end can be used to push the structure 90 and prevent the scaffolding system 100 from moving towards the structure 90. The adjustable tube 872 is fixed to the interconnecting structure 10 of the scaffolding system 100. As shown in FIG. 42, a chain 876 can be connected to the interconnecting structure 10 and wrapped around a portion of the structure 90 (e.g., a column or post) to prevent the scaffolding system 100 from moving away from the structure 90.

The monorail car 800 spans the width of the underside of the structure 90, allowing access to the lower surface 91c. In the embodiment shown, the monorail car 800 is made from suspended scaffolding, as described above. Hoist motors 801 are at either end of the monorail car 800 and provide movement of the monorail car 800 vertically (i.e., up and down) relative to the structure.

Figure 46 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC of Figure 44, illustrating in more detail the mechanism that allows movement of the monorail car 800c both along and vertically to the monorail beam 630.

Structures and devices used to move the scaffolding along the rails and to power and control the movement are known in the art. Typically, such structures and/or devices include a number of wheels that engage the lower flange 632 of the monorail beam 630. The movement of the structure and/or device along the monorail beam 630 is controlled and actuated using power from one or more generators 720. As shown in particular in Figures 44-45, two trolley structures 727, 728 are provided on each monorail assembly. One of the trolley structures 728 is passive and only facilitates the movement along the monorail beam 630. The other of the trolley structures 727 is active, i.e., has power and is connected to a control, and facilitates the movement of the monorail car 800c along the monorail beam 630.

It will be appreciated that in allowing both vertical movement and movement along the monorail beam, an operator on the monorail car 800 can access substantially the entire lower surface 91c of the structure 90.

Figure 38 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B of Figure 1A, illustrating the first and second monorail systems 700a, 700b, which also utilize two scaffolding systems 100a, 100b. In contrast to the embodiment shown in Figure 37, the embodiment shown in Figure 38 illustrates additional means for providing stability of the scaffolding systems 100a, 100b to the structure 90. The callouts shown in Figures 41 and 42 illustrate additional means for securing the scaffolding system 100 to the structure 90 to account for lateral forces. Figure 43 is a detailed view of callout 6 of Figure 38, illustrating a stabilization means to account for vertical forces (e.g., updrafts). As shown in FIG. 43, a third scaffolding system (e.g., a standard scaffolding system, etc.) is erected above the scaffolding system 100 and extends between the scaffolding system 100 and the bottom of the structure 90 to prevent upward movement of the scaffolding system 100.

Each monorail system 700a, 700b includes a monorail car 800a, 800b. While the embodiment shown in FIG. 37 includes a single monorail car 800c connected to two monorail assemblies, the monorail cars 800a, 800b shown in FIG. 38 are each connected to only a single monorail assembly at two points. Like the monorail car 800c, the monorail cars 800a, 800b are made from suspended scaffolding as described above. Hoist motors 801 are at either end of the monorail cars 800a, 800b and provide movement of each monorail car 800a, 800b vertically (i.e., up and down) relative to the structure.

FIGS. 44 and 45 illustrate exemplary monorail cars such as 800a, 800b, etc. With reference to FIGS. 44 and 45, the description will refer to monorail car 800a for simplicity, and understanding of the same description will also apply to monorail car 800b.

Structures and devices used to move the scaffolding along the rails and to power and control the movement are known in the art. Typically, such structures and/or devices include a number of wheels that engage the lower flange 632 of the monorail beam 630. The movement of the structure and/or device along the monorail beam 630 is controlled and actuated using power from one or more generators 720. As shown in particular in Figures 44-45, two trolley structures 727, 728 are provided. One of the trolley structures 728 is passive and only facilitates the movement along the monorail beam 630. The other of the trolley structures 727 is active, i.e., has power and is connected to a control, and facilitates the movement of the monorail car 800a along the monorail beam 630.

It will be appreciated that while allowing both vertical movement and movement along the monorail beam, operators on the monorail cars 800a, 800b have access to substantially the entire side surfaces 91a, 91b of the structure 90.

Figure 47 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D of Figure 1A, illustrating an exemplary cable configuration for obtaining power from the generator to the hoist motor and for powering the trolley.

How to Access a Surface When using a monorail system as described herein to access a surface, it is possible to access surfaces that were previously inaccessible (or not easily accessible), and to do so without assembling multiple levels and lengths of scaffolding.

Typically, a first scaffolding system is erected and suspended from the structure to be accessed. A monorail assembly is attached to the first scaffolding system as necessary to allow access to the structure. A monorail car is then erected from a second scaffolding system and suspended from the monorail assembly using at least one powered trolley to allow lateral movement of the monorail car parallel to the monorail beam. The monorail car also includes at least one hoist, which allows vertical movement of the monorail car.

In one embodiment, the first scaffolding system is a suspended articulated scaffolding system. When using a suspended articulated scaffolding system as disclosed herein, it is possible to assemble the first scaffolding system in mid-air from an existing structure, for example as described in detail with reference to Figures 22-26. Alternatively, the first scaffolding system is fixed and suspended from the structure, as described with further reference to Figures 29-33 and 39-42.

Once the first scaffolding system is assembled and secured, one or more monorail assemblies are attached to the first scaffolding system. First, the location of the monorail beam must be determined in order to position the joist brackets in the appropriate locations. The joist brackets are then secured to the first scaffolding system, specifically to the joists of the first scaffolding system as described with reference to Figures 3A-3C in the embodiment where the first scaffolding system is a suspended articulated scaffolding system. The monorail beams (which are fitted with joint bracket assemblies) are secured to each other and to the first scaffolding system using joint bracket assemblies and joist brackets as described with reference to Figures 5A-5E and 7A-7F. End stops are placed at both terminal ends of the monorail assemblies according to the description provided with reference to Figures 6A-7F.

The monorail car is assembled using a second scaffolding system (e.g., a suspended scaffolding as described herein). The monorail car is suspended from the monorail beam using at least one powered trolley and preferably using at least one powered trolley and one passive trolley.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to use two monorail assemblies with a single monorail car, for example as shown with reference to FIG. 37. In that case, two first scaffolding systems are assembled a predetermined distance apart from each other, with the scaffolding frame members (or joists) in each system being parallel to each other. If the scaffolding frame members (or joists) in one of the first scaffolding systems were not parallel to the scaffolding frame members (or joists) in the other of the first scaffolding systems, it would be difficult, if not impossible, to create two parallel monorail assemblies.

The monorail car is assembled as described above and secured to the first scaffolding system using at least one powered trolley and at least one passive trolley with each first scaffolding system.

Thus, it is specifically intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the embodiments and illustrations contained herein, but rather to include modifications of those embodiments (including portions of embodiments and combinations of elements of different embodiments) as fall within the scope of the following claims.
It should be noted that the present application includes the following aspects.
[Aspect 1]
a first scaffolding system including at least one framework member that is an elongated structure having a bottom chord and a plurality of panel points along the bottom chord;
At least one monorail beam;
at least one bracket structure secured to the at least one framework member at or about at least two panel points and configured to be secured to the at least one monorail beam;
Monorail assembly.
[Aspect 2]
2. The monorail assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least one monorail beam does not contact the at least one framework member when secured to the at least one bracket structure.
[Aspect 3]
3. The monorail assembly of claim 1 or 2, further comprising at least one joist bracket connected to the at least one monorail beam and the at least one bracket structure.
[Aspect 4]
The monorail assembly of aspect 2, further comprising at least one joist bracket, and wherein the connection of the at least one monorail beam to the at least one framework member is achieved by connection of the at least one joist bracket and at least one bracket structure.
[Aspect 5]
5. The monorail assembly of any one of the preceding aspects, further comprising at least one end stop secured to the at least one monorail beam.
[Aspect 6]
6. The monorail assembly of any one of aspects 1 to 5, further comprising at least two trolley structures slidingly secured to the first scaffolding system and configured to secure a second scaffolding system.
[Aspect 7]
A monorail assembly as described in any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the at least two trolley structures are slidingly secured to the at least one elongated structure.
[Aspect 8]
A monorail assembly as described in any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the first scaffolding system includes at least two framework members.
[Aspect 9]
A first scaffold system; and
a monorail assembly secured to the first scaffolding system and including at least one monorail beam;
a second scaffolding system suspended from the at least one monorail beam; and
Including the monorail system.
[Aspect 10]
10. The monorail system of claim 9, wherein the second scaffold system moves relative to the at least one monorail beam in both a lateral direction along the at least one monorail beam and a vertical direction along the at least one monorail beam.
[Aspect 11]
11. The monorail system of aspect 9 or 10, wherein the first scaffolding system is a suspended articulated scaffolding system.
[Aspect 12]
A monorail system as described in any one of aspects 9 to 11, wherein the monorail assembly further includes at least one bracket structure configured to be secured to the first scaffold system.
[Aspect 13]
A monorail system according to any one of aspects 9 to 12, wherein the second scaffolding system is a monorail car.
[Aspect 14]
A monorail system as described in any one of aspects 9 to 12, wherein the second scaffolding system is a suspended scaffolding.
[Aspect 15]
15. The monorail system of any one of aspects 9-14, further comprising at least two trolley structures slidingly secured to the first scaffold system.

10 interconnect structure 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, 10E interconnect structure 10X hub 11 top element 12 bottom element 13 opening 13A, 13B, 13C, 13D, 13E, 13F, 13G, 13H opening 14 opening 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, 14E, 14F, 14G, 14H opening 15 mid section 16 central opening 17 slot 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D slot 18A, 18B, 18C, 18D cross slot 19 central opening area 20 second reinforcing plate 22 handle 23 bottom opening 24 groove 25 gusset 30 scaffold frame member, joist [0023] 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D, 30E, 30F Joist 31A First end 31B Second end 32 Upper chord 33 Lower chord 35A, 35B, 35C, 35D Upper connection flange 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D Lower connection flange 37 Connection hole 37A, 37B, 37C, 37D Connection hole 38 Diagonal support member 39A, 39B Angle iron 40 Pin 40B Locking pin 42 Roll pin 50 Work platform 50A, 50B, 50C, 50D, 50E Work platform 51A, 51B Wood platform 52 Intermediate support deck joist 52A Intermediate support deck joist 53 Pin 54A, 54B Connector hole 60 Deck retainer plate 61 deck retainer bolt 62 hole 80 suspension connector, chain 82 structure attachment device, beam clamp 85 handrail standard 90 structure, bridge 91 arch 91a side surface 91b side surface 91c lower surface 92 beam 92X beam 95A obstacle 99 vertical structure, pier 100 scaffolding system, work platform system, modular space frame support system 100a, 100b scaffolding system 110 upper frame 115 frame unit 120 lower frame 120A, 120B system 200 work platform system 201 zip tie 202 hole 300 secondary suspender mounting bracket 302 base plate 303 flange 304 interconnecting tube 305 mounting hole 360A, 360B, 360C, 360D Additional locking holes 600 Monorail assembly 600a, 600b, 600c, 600d Monorail assembly 605 Joist bracket 605a, 605b Joist bracket 606 Bracket plate 607 Lower wall 608 First intermediate wall 609 Second intermediate wall 610 Upper wall 611 Transition section 612 Opening 613 Opening 614 Opening 615 Bolt 616 Nut 630 Monorail beam 631 Central member 632 Flange 635 Opening 642 Second opening 650 Monorail joint bracket assembly 651 Side plate 652 First section 653 Second section 654 Spacer 655 Spacer 656 Third spacer 657 Spacer plate 658 Safety plate clamp 660 Opening 661a Nut 661 Bolt 662 Nut 663 Opening 667 Opening 668 Opening 670 Bolt 672 Flange extension 680 End stop 681 Side plate 687 Spacer plate 688 Safety plate clamp 690 Upper portion 691 End plate 700 Monorail system 700a First monorail system 700b Second monorail system 700c Third monorail system 710 Panel point 720 Generator 727 Trolley structure 728 Trolley structure 741 Pin 800 Suspended scaffold system, monorail car 800a, 800b, 800c Monorail car 801 Hoist motor 810 Platform 815 Frame 820 Flooring 835 Chain 872 Tube 873 Foot 876 Chain M Motion arrow R ₁ turn arrow R ₂ turn arrow V Vertical Φ Angle

Claims (11)

a first scaffolding system including at least one framework member that is an elongated structure having a top chord, a bottom chord , a plurality of diagonal support members, and a plurality of panel points along the bottom chord, each panel point being a point along the bottom chord where two of the plurality of diagonal support members meet;
at least two monorail beams;
at least one joint bracket assembly joining the at least two monorail beams;
at least one joist bracket connected to the at least one framework member across at least two panel points , the at least one joist bracket further connected to the at least two monorail beams by the at least one joint bracket assembly. 2. The monorail assembly of claim 1, wherein the at least two monorail beams do not contact the at least one framework member when secured to the at least one joist bracket . 3. The monorail assembly of claim 2, wherein the connection of the at least two monorail beams to the at least one framework member is accomplished by connection of the at least one joist bracket. The monorail assembly of claim 1 , further comprising at least one end stop secured to the at least two monorail beams. 5. The monorail assembly of claim 1, further comprising at least two trolley structures slidingly secured to the at least two monorail beams and configured to secure a second scaffolding system. 6. A monorail assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 , wherein the first scaffolding system includes at least two framework members. A first scaffold system; and
a monorail assembly secured to the first scaffolding system and including at least one monorail beam;
a second scaffolding system suspended from the at least one monorail beam ; and
at least two trolley structures slidably secured to the at least one monorail beam and securing the second scaffold system to the at least one monorail beam;
Including the monorail system. 8. The monorail system of claim 7 , wherein the second scaffold system moves relative to the at least one monorail beam in both a lateral direction and a vertical direction along the at least one monorail beam. 9. A monorail system as described in claim 7 or 8 , wherein the first scaffolding system is a suspended articulated scaffolding system. 10. A monorail system as described in any one of claims 7 to 9 , wherein the second scaffolding system is a monorail car. 10. A monorail system as described in any one of claims 7 to 9 , wherein the second scaffolding system is a suspended scaffolding.