WO2014091217A1

WO2014091217A1 - Storage and transport apparatus for scaffolding

Info

Publication number: WO2014091217A1
Application number: PCT/GB2013/053243
Authority: WO
Inventors: Dave RUXTON; Terry RUXTON; Laurence Fidler; Mark Watts
Original assignee: TOWER TIDY Ltd
Current assignee: TOWER TIDY Ltd
Priority date: 2012-12-10
Filing date: 2013-12-10
Publication date: 2014-06-19
Anticipated expiration: 2015-06-10
Also published as: GB201222161D0

Abstract

The present invention relates to apparatus (2) for the storage and transport of elongate scaffolding members (100) such as scaffolding braces. An apparatus (2) is disclosed comprising a first framework, a second framework, and a closing element (70), the first and second frameworks being disposed side by side, each of the first and second frameworks including an opening in an upper region of the framework through which, in use, elongate scaffolding members (100) may be passed and stored in each framework, the closing element (70) being adapted to retain, in use, any elongate scaffolding members (100) located within either the first or second frameworks.

Description

Storage and transport apparatus for scaffolding

The present invention relates to apparatus for the storage and transport of elongate scaffolding members including, but not limited to, scaffolding braces. The present invention may be used to store a variety of elongate scaffolding members. Additional support apparatus are also disclosed for use with the present invention.

A scaffolding tower includes, and is assembled on site, from a number of elongate scaffolding members. The individual elongate scaffolding members while relatively lightweight, are due to their size and shape difficult to carry, for example to and from a transport vehicle or to or from the transport vehicle and the desired tower erection site. Often individuals seek to carry several loose elongate scaffolding members. However, this is not desirable as it can be difficult to maintain control of multiple elongate scaffolding members when carried in this way and may result in one or more of the loose elongate scaffolding members being dropped and damage being caused to both the dropped elongate scaffolding member(s) as well as anyone getting in the way of the falling elongate scaffolding member(s). This presents evident health and safety issues.

Further such elongate scaffolding members are often stored loose, with different types mixed, resulting in time being spent in sorting the relevant elongate scaffolding members prior to loading in a transport vehicle. A scaffolding tower will also incorporate flat scaffolding members, such as boards or ladders, which are also often stored loose again resulting in time being spent in sorting the relevant scaffolding members prior to loading in a transport vehicle.

Such loose storage also means that elongate scaffolding elements can be prone to being lost or stolen without this being discovered until such time as the elongate scaffolding elements are being sorted prior to transport. This can then lead to costly delay while an alternative, replacement elongate scaffolding member is sourced. The same disadvantages may result from the loose storage of flat scaffolding elements.

The elongate scaffolding members are often then arranged loose in the transport vehicle, such that they roll during transport causing noise and possible damage to both the elongate scaffolding members and other items being conveyed in the transport vehicle.

It is an advantage of the present invention that it provides a solution to these difficulties, allowing for ordered storage and ready transport of various elongate scaffolding members. Such ordered storage can also permit better stock control of the various elongate scaffolding members.

According to a first aspect of the present invention an apparatus for storing and transporting elongate scaffolding members comprises a first framework, a second framework, and a closing element, the first and second frameworks being disposed side by side, each of the first and second frameworks including an opening in an upper region of the framework through which, in use, elongate scaffolding members may be passed and stored in each framework, the closing element being adapted to retain, in use, any elongate scaffolding members located within either the first or second frameworks.

Preferably, the first and second frameworks comprise U-shaped end members connected by at least one intermediate member.

Preferably, the at least one intermediate member forms a part of both the first and second frameworks.

Preferably, a lower member of each of the U-shaped end members of the first and second framework is formed from a common member.

Preferably the closing element comprises an adjustable closing member. More preferably, the closing element is supported between the first and second frameworks. Preferably, the closing element comprises a rotatable member.

Alternatively, the closing element comprises a plurality of closing members.

Preferably, the storage and transport apparatus further comprises a carrying member. More preferably, the carrying member extends between a first and a second end of the apparatus. Preferably, the adjustable closing element is supported between the intermediate member and the carrying member.

Preferably the closing element is located centrally of the storage and transport apparatus.

Preferably, the storage and transport apparatus includes upper and lower locating portions. More preferably, the locating portions comprise male and female members. Even more preferably, the male portions are provided on an upper part of the first and second frameworks.

Preferably the locating portions also include a retaining member. More preferably, the retaining member passes through the locating portions.

Preferably the first and second frameworks, the at least one intermediate member and the carrying member comprise tubing. More preferably, the tubing comprises steel tubing. Even more preferably the tubing is connected by welding.

Preferably, the storage and transport apparatus further comprises a spacer element. More preferably the spacer element comprises an elongate member. Even more preferably the spacer element comprises an arcuate lower surface.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, a kit of parts comprises at least one storage and transport apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the invention and a support apparatus on which the plurality of storage and transport apparatus may be supported.

Such a support apparatus also has as an advantage that flat scaffolding elements may also be stored or conveyed on the support apparatus together with the elongate scaffolding elements. This allows for ordered storage and ready transport of various elongate scaffolding members. Such ordered storage can also permit better stock control of the various elongate and flat scaffolding members.

Preferably, the support apparatus comprises a base portion defining front, rear, left and right sides of the support apparatus.

Preferably, the support apparatus further comprises receiving portions. Alternatively, the support apparatus further comprises receiving portions provided on the base portion.

Preferably, the receiving portions are provided as lugs.

Preferably, the receiving portions are provided to the rear of the support apparatus. More preferably, the support apparatus further comprises guide members. Even more preferably, the guide members extend below the base portion.

Alternatively, the receiving portions are provided centrally of the support apparatus. Preferably, the support apparatus further comprises a plurality of wheel assemblies. Preferably, the support apparatus further comprises guide members. More preferably, the guide members to at least one end of the support apparatus are provided with a cross bar. Even more preferably, the cross bar is provided with towing means. Preferably, the towing means may be released from the cross bar.

The invention will now be described, by way of example only, in relation to the attached Figures, in which

Figure 1 shows a schematic side view of an apparatus in accordance with a first aspect of the present invention without elongate scaffolding members stored in the apparatus;

Figure 2 shows a schematic end view of the apparatus of Figure 1, including elongate scaffolding members stored in the apparatus;

Figure 3 shows a perspective view illustrating an aspect of the invention;

Figure 4 shows a plan view of a first embodiment of a support apparatus for use with apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention;

Figure 5 shows a front view of the support apparatus of Figure 4 and a first apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention;

Figure 6 shows a side view of the support apparatus of Figures 4 and 5 and three sets of apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention;

Figure 7 shows a plan view of a second embodiment of a support apparatus for use with apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention; Figure 8 shows a front view of the support apparatus of Figure 7 and a first apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention; and

Figure 9 shows a side view of the support apparatus of Figures 6 and 7 and three sets of apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention.

Referring to the Figures an embodiment of an apparatus 2 for storing and transporting elongate scaffolding members in accordance with the invention is shown.

Reference to "vertical", "vertically" or the like in the present invention is intended to refer to the vertical of the present apparatus when placed in the upright position shown in the Figures and should be construed accordingly. Similarly reference to the longitudinal axis of an elongate scaffolding element is intended to be construed as reference to the lengthwise axis thereof.

The illustrated embodiment of the apparatus 2 is substantially symmetrical about each of its length and width.

At the ends of the apparatus 2 shown in Figures 1 and 2, a first substantially U-shaped member 4 is shown comprising a first outer upright member 6, a second inner upright member 8 and a first end 10 of a cross member 22. A second substantially U-shaped member 14 is shown adjacent the first and comprises a first inner upright member 18, a second outer upright member 16 and a second end 12 of the cross member 22. The outer upright members 6, 16 of each of the U-shaped members 4,14 can be seen to extend beneath the cross member 22 to form feet. It will be understood by reference to Figure 1 that this structure is replicated at the other end of the apparatus.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown) a lower portion of each of the U-shaped members is formed with a separate cross member. However, the use of a single common cross member is preferred.

As may be seen from Figures 1 and 2, upper ends of the outer upright members 6,16 of each of the U-shaped members 4,14 are provided with extensions 22,32 extending above a height of the inner upright members 8,18 of each of the U-shaped members 4,14. Further these extensions 22,32 are of reduced cross section in comparison to the remainder of the outer upright members 6,16 of each of the U-shaped members 4,14. The lower ends of outer upright members 6,16 of each of the U-shaped members 4,14 are hollow, for reasons to be described in more detail below.

The remainder of the outer upright members 6,16 need not be hollow, but conveniently are. Conveniently, all the members of the apparatus 2 are formed of hollow tubing. Preferably, the hollow tubing is square box tubing. This has as an advantage that the resulting apparatus is relatively lightweight. Again this construction is duplicated at the other end of the apparatus 2. The apparatus 2 may be formed of any suitable material, for example from a metal such as steel or a suitably durable and robust plastics material .

Conveniently as shown in Figure 2 the extensions 22,32 may be formed as inserts secured in any suitable manner within the hollow outer upright members 6,16.

By way of example the outer upright members 6,16 are 315mm high with 25mm high extensions 22,32, the inner upright members 8,18 are 265mm high and the cross member 12 is 183mm long.

The upper ends of the extensions 22,32 and the inner upright members 8,18 are preferably provided with a cap 24,34, preferably in the form of a rubber or plastics cap. This has as an advantage that a user is protected against any impact with an exposed end of the hollow tubing.

The inner upright members 8,18 are connected at their inner faces by first and second longitudinal members. The first longitudinal member comprises an intermediate member 42 extending between, that is between a first end and a second end of the apparatus 2. The intermediate member may also be formed of hollow tubing.

In an alternative embodiment, the first longitudinal member 42 can be supplemented by further intermediate members extending between the first and second ends of the apparatus to provide additional rigidity. However, it is believed that a single intermediate member 42 should be sufficient.

By way of example the intermediate member 42 may be 25mm wide, 38 mm high and have a length of 500mm.

The second longitudinal member includes a carrying member 52 comprising an upper member 54 extending substantially the length of the apparatus 2. The upper member may be formed of any suitable material in any suitable manner. For example the upper member is conveniently formed of hollow tubing. Preferably, the hollow tubing is square box tubing. Other sections of tubing, for example circular tubing, may be used. This has as an advantage that the hollow tubing contributes to the relatively lightweight nature of the apparatus.

Each end of the upper member 54 is preferably provided with a cap 56, preferably in the form of a rubber or plastics cap. This has as an advantage that it protects a user against any impact with an exposed end of the upper member 54. First and second angled members 58,60 are each connected at a first end to an underside of the upper member 54 adjacent a respective end of the upper member 54. A second end of each angled member 58,60 (shown in ghost in Figure 1) is located between and connected to the inner faces of each of the inner upright members 8,18. In this way it can be seen that the second longitudinal member comprising the upper member 54 and the first and second angled members 58,60 extends between the first end and the second end of the apparatus 2.

By way of example the upper member 54 may be 25mm wide, 25 mm high and have a length of 355mm . This long length relative to the length of the apparatus 2 has as an advantage that it provides balance for the carried elongate scaffolding members 100.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown) the angled members 58,60 may further include at their second ends a depending vertical member adapted to extend between the inner upright members 8,18 to the intermediate member 42 such that the first and second longitudinal members form part of a loop connecting the first and second ends of the apparatus 2.

The members of the apparatus so far described may be connected together in any suitable manner, for example where the members are of steel by welding. Another suitable means of connection would be the use of threaded fasteners such as bolts to secure members together. Other means of connection will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

In this way a first framework is created by the first U-shaped members 4 at each end and the first and second longitudinal members and a second framework is created by the second U-shaped members 14 at each and the first and second longitudinal members, it being understood that the first and second frameworks share the first and second longitudinal members.

Each of the first and second frameworks provides a cradle in which one or more elongate scaffolding members 100 may be stored.

The apparatus 2 is provided with a closing element 70 by which at least one elongate scaffolding member 100 can be secured in the apparatus. In the illustrated embodiment a bar 72 having a threaded portion is mounted in any suitable manner between the first and second longitudinal members. Conveniently the threaded portion extends along the length of the bar 72. An elongate displaceable member is mounted on the bar 72 and is adapted to rotate upon the threaded portion. In the illustrated embodiment, the displaceable member comprises a substantially flat portion 74 connected to a nut 78, the flat member having upwardly directed portions 76 at each end. The elongate displaceable member is formed from any suitable material, for example steel. Conveniently, the elongate displaceable member is connected to the nut 78 by welding.

The flat portion 74 of the elongate displaceable member when arranged orthogonally to a longitudinal axis of the apparatus 2 preferably extends over half way across each cradle formed by the first and second frameworks. In the illustrated embodiment, a single displaceable member is provided centrally of the apparatus. By way of example, each of the upwardly directed portions 76 of the elongate displaceable member may be 25mm in length and the flat portion 130mm in length.

In use, the displaceable member is adjusted towards an upper end of the bar 72 and aligned with the intermediate member 42 and the carrying member 52. This will allow an elongate scaffolding member to freely pass at each end of the apparatus 2 through a gap or opening at an upper end of the U-shaped members 4,14 and be introduced into the cradles formed by the first and second frameworks.

Subsequent elongate scaffolding members 100 can be rested in each cradle on the elongate scaffolding member below. It can be seen that in the illustrated embodiment this will create a vertical stack of elongate scaffolding members 100 stored in each cradle of the apparatus 2.

Once the desired number of elongate scaffolding members 100 have been placed in the cradles, for example the five each side of the apparatus 2 shown in Figure 2, the closing element 70 is adjusted downwards into contact with an upper surface of the uppermost elongate scaffolding member. The upwardly directed portions 76 of the closing element 70 are sufficiently large, and the elongate displaceable member sufficiently resilient, that a user can tighten the closing element 70 somewhat against the elongate scaffolding members 100, both to ensure the elongate scaffolding members 100 within the cradle are held together to prevent movement that would create noise during transport and that the closing element 70 does not become loose during transport.

The advantage of being able to transport up to ten elongate scaffolding members 100 in a balanced manner in a single trip will be readily understood.

Optionally a lower portion of each of the U-shaped members 4,14 is provided with a resilient covering 30. The resilient covering 30 may be of any suitable material such as a rubber strip. Preferably the resilient covering is shaped to receive a portion of an elongate scaffolding member 100, for example it may be provided with a concave portion on which an initial elongate scaffolding member may rest.

If the lower portion of the U-shaped member is provided with the resilient covering 30, the closing element 70 can be tightened against the bias provided by the resilient covering 30 to further keep the closing element 70 secure against loosening during transport. Nevertheless, even if the closing element 70 does become loose, the elongate scaffolding members will be held stacked in position within the cradles and so maintain a degree of order.

Turning to Figure 3, if it is desired to transport an odd number of elongate scaffolding elements, without the potential for the lower number of elongate scaffolding elements rattling or otherwise creating a disturbance in the storage and transport apparatus 2 during transport or to keep them from sliding during carrying of the storage and transport apparatus 2, the use of a spacing element 80 is shown.

The spacing element 80 is a brace adaptor used to fill the space between the closing element 70 and the elongate scaffolding element 100 below. In the illustrated embodiment, the spacing element 80 is elongate and substantially cylindrical having an upper curved surface 82, and a lower concave curved surface 84. The lower curved or arcuate surface 84 is shaped to receive a curved surface of an elongate scaffolding element 100. The upper curved surface 82, in use, is abutted and held in place (thereby holding the elongate scaffolding member(s) below in place) by the closing element 70 as if it were an elongate scaffolding member as described above.

In an alternative embodiment (not shown) more than one closing element 70 (and associated threaded bar) could be provided, spaced along the apparatus. Conveniently, a separate closing element could be provided to close each cradle. However, it is believed that the single closing element 70, extending to each side of the apparatus 2 is sufficient for the task.

In a yet further embodiment (not shown), the upright members 8,18 as well as the upper member 54, and angled members 58,60 of the carrying member 52 are replaced by a single tubular member. The single tubular member extends across the apparatus 2 with ends depending vertically to join a central portion of each end cross member. The depending ends are substantially parallel to the upright members 6,16. An intermediate member may also connect the two depending members. It will be appreciated that the single tubular member forms a part of each of the end U-shaped members 4,14.

Further embodiments (not shown) of the closing member may also be envisaged. For example, an angled plate having at least one flexible biased displaceable wing may be provided between the U-shaped members 4,14.

Where a single tubular member forms part of the U-shaped members, the angled plate may be provided connected to the tubular member.

In use, the or each wing extends slightly into the cradles formed by the U- shaped members. When an elongate scaffolding member 100 is introduced into the cradle, the wing extending into the cradle is displaced. Since the wing is biased, it then acts on the elongate scaffolding member to retain the elongate scaffolding member in the cradle. In a preferred embodiment, the angled plate is manufactured from steel. In a preferred embodiment an angled plate is provided to each end of the apparatus. Preferably, the angled plate is provided with two flexible wings, one extending into each cradle.

The or each wing is biased such that while an elongate scaffolding member 100 can be inserted into a cradle by hand, the elongate scaffolding member is held against unassisted movement such that it cannot move under its own weight and fall from the apparatus during transport of the apparatus.

The U-shaped members 4,14 may be shaped such that a storage and transport apparatus 2 of the present invention may be used for either a single kind of elongate scaffolding member, or more preferably for a variety of kinds of elongate scaffolding member. In the second case, a number of identical storage and transport apparatus 2 can be used to store and carry all the necessary elongate scaffolding elements to form a scaffolding tower, with elongate scaffolding elements of the same kind being located in separate storage and transport apparatus for ease of visual reference. This has as an advantage that the user does not need to acquire and keep multiple storage and transport apparatus individually sized for different elongate scaffolding members.

Similarly, the storage and transport apparatus 2 of the present invention also provides advantages in storage in that elongate scaffolding members 100 of the same kind may be stored in an individual storage and transport apparatus 2, that is a first storage and transport apparatus may be used to store wheeled components, a second to store stabilizers, a third to store diagonal braces, another to store horizontal braces and so forth. Accordingly when a user desires to transport the elongate scaffolding members 100 necessary to build a scaffolding tower of a particular form the relevant elongate scaffolding members 100 can readily be identified and arranged for transport. When keeping the storage and transport apparatus 2 of the present invention ready for use, whether or not loaded with elongate scaffolding elements, one such storage and transport apparatus 2 can be stacked on top of another such storage and transport apparatus 2. The cross section of the extensions 22,32 of the outer upright members 6,16 of each of the U-shaped members 4,14 of one such apparatus 2 is such that the extensions 22,32 may be inserted within the lower ends of the outer upright members 6,16 of each of the U-shaped members of a second apparatus to locate the first apparatus and second apparatus with respect to one another. It will be understood that the arrangement of the angled members allow the upper member 54 of the carrying member 52 of a lower storage and transport apparatus 2 clearance beneath the intermediate member 42 of the storage and transport apparatus 2 above.

It has been found that this is sufficient to keep the first and second storage and transport apparatus stable with respect to one another. Nevertheless, further security may be provided by the use of a retaining pin 90 adapted to pass through suitable openings 92 provided in each extension 22,32 and a corresponding lower portion of the respective overlying outer upright member 6,16. Preferably a retaining pin 90 is provided tethered to the upper region of each outer upright member 6,16 adjacent the extension 22,32 for use therewith.

Additionally when sets of storage and transport apparatus are positioned one on top of another to form a tower of such apparatus in a transport vehicle, the sets of apparatus may be readily secured within the vehicle thereby eliminating, or substantially reducing, unwanted noise and possible damage to both the elongate scaffolding members and other items during transport.

In addition the storage and transport apparatus 2 may be provided for use as part of a kit with a support apparatus 110,210 to further improve the usefulness of the storage and transport apparatus 2.

A first example of a support apparatus is shown in Figures 4 to 6. A first support apparatus 110 comprises a base portion 112 including receiving portions 114 by which a first storage and transport apparatus 2 is releasably connected to the base portion 112 and guide members 116. The base portion 112 defines a front side 120, a rear side 122, a left hand side 124 and a right hand side 126 of the first support apparatus 110. The guide members 116 are located at corners of the base portion 112 and comprise vertical uprights. The vertical uprights extend below the base portion 112 to act as feet for the support apparatus 110. In addition the region formed beneath the base portion 112 is conveniently sufficiently high that forks of a fork lift truck can be introduced beneath the base portion 112 in order to lift the first support apparatus 110 and move it.

Connecting members 130,132 are disposed between the left and right hand sides 124,126 and extend between the front and rear sides 120,122 of the base portion 118. The connecting members 130,132 include the receiving portions 114 and it will be understood that the spacing of the connecting members 130,132 and the receiving portions 114 correspond to the spacing of the hollow feet of a storage and transport apparatus 2.

The receiving portions 114 may take any suitable form, for example lugs over which the hollow feet of the storage and transport apparatus 2 may sit or a recess or opening in the connecting members 130,132 in which the hollow feet of the storage and transport apparatus may be received. Additional retention elements, for example retention pins 140, may be provided to connect the storage and transport apparatus 2 to the receiving portions 114. When not used to secure a storage and transport apparatus 2 in position the retention pins 140 may be secured to the receiving portions 114 for future use.

In this support apparatus 110, the receiving portions 114 are located such that a first storage and transport apparatus 2 is located to the rear of the support apparatus 110. Conveniently the first support apparatus 110 is loaded with a set of elongate scaffolding elements (not shown). Subsequent apparatus can then be arranged in the form of a tower. In Figure 6, it can be seen that three such apparatus are mounted on the support apparatus 110. Conveniently upper ends of the four vertical members extend to a height corresponding to the upper surface of the third apparatus in the stack.

It will be appreciated that there is a region to the front of the receiving portions 114, defined between the front side of the support apparatus 110 and the frontmost of the receiving portions 114. In practice, this forms a region in which flat scaffolding elements such as boards 160 or ladders may be located. It will be noted that the height of this region allows the flat scaffolding elements 160 to be stored on edge without protruding above the upper ends of the four guide members 116.

The region beneath the base portion 112 also ensures that the flat scaffolding elements 160 are not stored in any pooled water that may accumulate beneath the base portion 112.

It can also be seen that the width of the support apparatus is such that further flat scaffolding elements 160 may be stored on the top of the support apparatus 112.

Such a support apparatus 112 has particular usefulness in a storage area where the support apparatus 112 may be located against a wall 170 for efficient use of space.

A second support apparatus is shown in Figures 7 to 9. The second support apparatus 210 comprises a base portion 212 including receiving portions 214 by which a first storage and transport apparatus 2 is releasably connected to the base portion 212 and guide members 214. The base portion 212 defines a front side 220, a rear side 222, a left hand side 224 and a right hand side 226 of the second support apparatus 210. The guide members 214 are located at corners of the base portion 112 and comprise vertical uprights. The base portion 212 of the second support apparatus 210 is provided at its corners with wheel assemblies 250 to allow the second support apparatus 210 to be moved. Conveniently the wheel assemblies 250 may be attached to the lower ends of the guide members 214.

Additionally, support members (not shown) extending diagonally between the front side 220 of the base portion and the associated guide members 214 may be provided. Conveniently, similar support members (not shown) extending diagonally between the rear side 222 of the base portion and the associated guide members 214 may also be provided.

In addition the region formed beneath the base portion 212 is conveniently sufficiently high that forks of a fork lift truck can be introduced beneath the base portion 112 in order to lift the second support apparatus 210 off the wheel assemblies 250.

Connecting members 230,232 are disposed between the left and right hand sides 224,226 and extend between the front and rear sides 220,222 of the base portion 218. The connecting members 230,232 include the receiving portions 214 and it will be understood that the spacing of the connecting members 230,232 and the receiving portions 214 correspond to the spacing of the hollow feet of a storage and transport apparatus 2.

The receiving portions 214 may take any suitable form, for example lugs over which the hollow feet of the storage and transport apparatus 2 may sit or a recess or opening in the connecting members 230,232 in which the hollow feet of the storage and transport apparatus may be received. Additional retention elements, for example retention pins 240, may be provided to connect the storage and transport apparatus 2 to the receiving portions 214. When not used to secure a storage and transport apparatus 2 in position the retention pins 240 may be secured to the receiving portions 214 for future use.

In this second support apparatus, the receiving portions 214 are located such that a first storage and transport apparatus 2 is located centrally of the support apparatus 210. Conveniently the first storage and transport apparatus is loaded with a set of elongate scaffolding elements 100. Additional storage and transport apparatus can then be added to form a tower as previously described. In Figure 9, it can be seen that three such apparatus are mounted on the second support apparatus 210.

Conveniently upper ends of the four guide members 214 extend to a height corresponding to the upper surface of the third storage and transport apparatus in the tower. It will be appreciated that there are regions of the base portion 212 to the front and the rear of the receiving portions 214. In practice, these are regions in which flat tower elements 260 such as boards or ladders may be located. It will be noted that the height of each of these regions allows the flat tower elements 260 to be stored on edge without protruding above the upper ends of the four guide members 214. It can also be seen that the width of the second storage apparatus 210 is such that further flat tower elements may be stored on the top of the second storage apparatus 210. It will be seen that the central location of the storage and transport apparatus 2 on the second support apparatus 210 allows the second support apparatus 210 to be balanced such that movement of the second support apparatus 210 is achieved more easily and may more readily be maintained under the control of a user.

The second support apparatus 210 may be provided at least one end, preferably both, with a cross bar (not shown) extending across the end(s), preferably joining the upper ends of the guide members 214. The cross bar(s) enable the second support apparatus 210 to be pushed or pulled by a user and so have enhanced manoeuvrability.

Conveniently such cross bars may be provided toward, but spaced from, the upper ends of the guide members 214. In this way an upper cradle is provided in or upon which the flat tower elements 260 may be supported.

The cross bar(s) may be provided with a handle to enable second support apparatus 210 to be more easily towed. Alternatively means for the releasable attachment of such a handle may be provided on one or both, of the cross bars.

Each of the first and second support members may be manufactured from any suitable material. However, tubing is preferred, for example box tubing.

Claims

1 An apparatus for storing and transporting elongate scaffolding members comprises a first framework, a second framework, and a closing element, the first and second frameworks being disposed side by side, each of the first and second frameworks including an opening in an upper region of the framework through which, in use, elongate scaffolding members may be passed and stored in each framework, the closing element being adapted to retain, in use, any elongate scaffolding members located within either the first or second frameworks.

2 An apparatus according to claim 1, in which the first and second frameworks comprise U-shaped end members connected by at least one intermediate member.

3 An apparatus according to claim 2, in which the at least one intermediate member forms a part of both the first and second frameworks.

4 An apparatus according to either claim 2 or claim 3, in which a lower member of each of the U-shaped end members of the first and second framework is formed from a common member.

5 An apparatus according to any previous claim, in which the closing element comprises an adjustable closing member. 6 An apparatus according to claim 5, in which the closing element is supported between the first and second frameworks.

7 An apparatus according to any previous claim, in which the closing element comprises a rotatable member.

8 An apparatus according to any previous claim, in which the closing element comprises a plurality of closing members.

9 An apparatus according to any previous claim, in which the apparatus further comprises a carrying member.

10 An apparatus according to claim 9, in which the carrying member extends between a first and a second end of the apparatus.

11 An apparatus according to any previous claim, in which the adjustable closing element is supported between the intermediate member and the carrying member.

12 An apparatus according to any claim, in which the closing element is located centrally of the apparatus.

13 An apparatus according to any previous claim, in which the apparatus includes upper and lower locating portions. 14 An apparatus according to claim 13, in which the locating portions comprise male and female members.

15 An apparatus according to claim 14, in which the male members are provided on an upper part of the first and second frameworks.

16 An apparatus according to any of claims 13-15, in which the locating portions also include a retaining member.

17 An apparatus according to any of claims 13-15, in which the retaining member passes through the locating portions.

18 An apparatus according to any previous claim, in which the first and second frameworks, the at least one intermediate member and the carrying member comprise tubing.

19 An apparatus according to claim 18, in which the tubing comprises steel tubing.

20 An apparatus according to claim 19, in which the tubing is connected by welding.

21 An apparatus for storing and transporting elongate scaffolding members substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in the accompanying Figures. 22 An apparatus according to any previous claim, further comprising a spacer element.

23 An apparatus according to claim 22, in which the spacer element comprises an elongate member.

24 An apparatus according to claim 22 or claim 23, in which the spacer element comprises an arcuate lower surface.

25 A kit of parts comprising at least one storage and transport apparatus in accordance with any previous claim and a support apparatus on which the plurality of storage and transport apparatus may be supported.

26 A kit of parts according to claim 25, in which the support apparatus comprises a base portion defining front, rear, left and right sides of the support apparatus.

27 A kit of parts according to either claim 25 or claim 26, in which the support apparatus further comprises receiving portions.

28 A kit of parts according to either claim 25 or claim 26, in which the support apparatus further comprises receiving portions provided on the base portion. 29 A kit of parts according to claim 27 or claim 28, in which the receiving portions are provided as lugs

30 A kit of parts according to any of claims 27 to 29, in which the receiving portions are provided to the rear of the support apparatus.

31 A kit of parts according to any of claims 25 to 30, in which the support apparatus further comprises guide members.

32 A kit of parts according to claim 31, in which the guide members extend below the base portion.

33 A support apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in Figures 4 to 6.

34 A kit of parts according to any of claims 27 to 29, in which the receiving portions are provided centrally of the support apparatus.

35 A kit of parts according to claim 34, in which the support apparatus further comprises a plurality of wheel assemblies.

36 A kit of parts according to either claim 34 or claim 35, in which the support apparatus further comprises guide members.

37 A kit of parts according to claim 36, in which the guide members to at least one end of the support apparatus are provided with a cross bar. 38 A kit of parts according to claim 37, in which the cross bar is provided with towing means.

39 A kit of parts according to claim 38, in which the towing means may be released from the cross bar.

40 A support apparatus substantially as described herein with reference to and as illustrated in Figures 7 to 9.