US20210222442A1 - Adjustable Base for a Multi-Purpose Scaffold - Google Patents
Adjustable Base for a Multi-Purpose Scaffold Download PDFInfo
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- US20210222442A1 US20210222442A1 US17/151,239 US202117151239A US2021222442A1 US 20210222442 A1 US20210222442 A1 US 20210222442A1 US 202117151239 A US202117151239 A US 202117151239A US 2021222442 A1 US2021222442 A1 US 2021222442A1
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- stem
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- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000006641 stabilisation Effects 0.000 abstract description 4
- 238000011105 stabilization Methods 0.000 abstract description 4
- 235000004443 Ricinus communis Nutrition 0.000 description 12
- 239000003381 stabilizer Substances 0.000 description 12
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 8
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 8
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 2
- 230000000087 stabilizing effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000003466 welding Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003562 lightweight material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003014 reinforcing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
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Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G1/00—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground
- E04G1/28—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground designed to provide support only at a low height
- E04G1/30—Ladder scaffolds
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G1/00—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground
- E04G1/02—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground composed essentially of members elongated in one dimension only, e.g. poles, lattice masts, with or without end portions of special form, connected together by any means
- E04G1/04—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground composed essentially of members elongated in one dimension only, e.g. poles, lattice masts, with or without end portions of special form, connected together by any means the members being exclusively poles, rods, beams, or other members of similar form and simple cross-section
- E04G1/06—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground composed essentially of members elongated in one dimension only, e.g. poles, lattice masts, with or without end portions of special form, connected together by any means the members being exclusively poles, rods, beams, or other members of similar form and simple cross-section comprising members with rod-like or tubular portions fitting together end to end, with or without separate connecting pieces
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G1/00—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground
- E04G1/24—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground comprising essentially special base constructions; comprising essentially special ground-engaging parts, e.g. inclined struts, wheels
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G5/00—Component parts or accessories for scaffolds
- E04G5/16—Struts or stiffening rods, e.g. diagonal rods
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G1/00—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground
- E04G1/24—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground comprising essentially special base constructions; comprising essentially special ground-engaging parts, e.g. inclined struts, wheels
- E04G2001/242—Scaffolds movable on wheels or tracks
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
- E04G1/00—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground
- E04G1/28—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground designed to provide support only at a low height
- E04G1/30—Ladder scaffolds
- E04G2001/302—Ladder scaffolds with ladders supporting the platform
- E04G2001/305—The ladders being vertical and perpendicular to the platform
Definitions
- the present disclosure relates generally to scaffolding and, more particularly, to components used for stabilizing a scaffold during use.
- Lightweight scaffolds made from metal tubing are commercially available for use when working close to the ground.
- One such scaffold comprises an adjustable platform supported between two ladder frames.
- the platform includes guide channels at each end that slide up and down along the vertical supports of the ladder frames. Casters insert into the lower ends of the vertical supports so that the scaffold can roll on the floor or other support surface.
- the scaffolds are configured to be stacked vertically.
- the stabilization components are configured for use with a scaffold comprising two ladder frames, an adjustable platform supported between the two ladder frames, and ground-engaging members such as casters.
- Each ladder frame includes two vertical supports connected by cross members.
- the platform is adjustable and comprises two side rails having guide channels at each end thereof that slide along the vertical supports.
- the lightweight scaffold further comprises an outrigger releasably connected to each vertical support.
- the outrigger comprises a triangular frame.
- a channel which is fixedly attached to the triangular frame, fits around the vertical support.
- One or more mechanical fasteners such as lock pins, for example, are used to releasably connect the channel to the vertical support.
- a first ground-engaging member e.g., a caster is removably secured to the triangular frame.
- a scaffold comprises first and second ladder frames, each of which comprises two vertical supports made of a tubular material connected by two or more cross members, and an adjustable platform configured to be supported between the first and second ladder frames.
- the scaffold comprises a triangular frame releasably connected to each vertical support.
- the triangular frame comprises an elongated vertical member, a base member fixedly secured to a lower end of the elongated vertical member, a brace fixedly secured to, and extending diagonally between, a top end of the elongated vertical member and the base member, and a sleeve fixedly attached to the base member.
- an outrigger for a scaffold having first and second ladder frames, each of which includes two vertical supports made of a tubular material connected by two or more cross members, an adjustable platform configured to be supported between the first and second ladder frames, and a triangular frame.
- the triangular frame comprises an elongated vertical member made of a tubular material, a channel fixedly attached to the elongated vertical member and configured to fit around the vertical support, a telescoping base member fixedly secured to a lower end of the elongated vertical member, a brace extending between the telescoping base member and a top end of the elongated vertical member, and a sleeve fixedly attached to the base member.
- the outrigger further comprises first and second ground-engaging members, at least one of which is removably is secured to the sleeve.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a scaffold including two ladder frames and an adjustable platform according to one exemplary embodiment.
- FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of a side rail and guide channel for the adjustable platform.
- FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view a caster for the scaffold.
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the compression collar.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a compression collar installed on the lower end of a vertical support to stabilize the connection between the vertical support and the caster.
- FIG. 6 is a cross section through the lower end of a vertical support with a clamping collar installed.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a clamp.
- FIG. 8 is perspective view of the clamp installed on the lower end of a guide channel to stabilize the connection between the guide channel and the vertical support on which the guide channel slides.
- FIG. 9 is a cross section through the lower end of a guide channel with a clamp installed.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the auxiliary brace.
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the scaffold with the compression collar, clamp and auxiliary brace installed.
- FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a section of the scaffold with a stabilizer brace installed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the stabilizer brace attached to a clamp, and the clamp releasably coupled to the scaffold according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 14 is a close-up view of the clamp connected to one of the vertical supports of the scaffold according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 16 illustrates the scaffold having a plurality of stabilizer braces installed thereon according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the scaffold with an adjustable outrigger installed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an adjustable outrigger configured according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIGS. 19A-19B are cross sections of an outrigger and a vertical support of the scaffold according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 19C is a perspective view illustrating how an outrigger connects to a vertical support of the scaffold according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a castor assembly attached to a telescoping member of the outrigger according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a multi-purpose scaffold 10 according to an exemplary embodiment.
- the multi-purpose scaffold 10 comprises two ladder frames 12 and a platform 20 supported between the two ladder frames 12 .
- the height of the platform 20 is adjustable.
- Each ladder frame 12 comprises two vertical supports 14 connected by two or more cross members 16 .
- the vertical supports 14 and cross members 16 are preferably made of a metal tubing or other tubular material.
- the cross members 16 are preferably welded at each end to respective ones of the vertical supports 14 so that each ladder frame 12 is a unitary structure.
- a series of openings 18 are formed in the vertical supports 14 and are spaced 2 inches apart. As will be hereinafter described in more detail, the openings 18 are engaged by a releasable locking mechanism 30 on the platform 20 to secure the platform 20 at a desired height between the ladder frames 12 .
- the platform 20 comprises two side rails 22 that extend between the ladder frames 12 and a deck 40 that is supported by the side rails 22 .
- the side rails 22 comprises an upper angle 22 a and a lower angle 22 b connected by a vertical wall 22 c .
- the upper angle 22 a defines a shoulder 28 on which the deck 40 rests.
- the deck 40 is held in place by security latches 42 .
- the side rails 22 connect at each end to a C-shaped guide channel 24 sized to fit around the vertical supports 14 of the ladder frames 12 .
- the guide channels 24 are configured to slide along the vertical supports 14 of the ladder frames 12 at each end of the scaffold 10 to adjust the height of the platform 20 .
- Two openings 26 are formed in the inner sidewall of each guide channel 24 near an upper end of the guide channel 24 .
- the openings 26 are spaced to align with the openings 18 in the vertical supports 14 of the ladder frame 12 at preselected heights.
- the openings 26 in the guide channels 24 are engaged by a releasable locking mechanism 30 on the platform 20 to secure the platform 20 at a desired height between the ladder frames 12 .
- a third opening 28 is formed near a lower end of the guide channel 24 and aligns with an opening 18 in the vertical support 14 .
- a locking pin 29 passes through aligned opening 28 and 18 in the guide channel 24 and vertical support 14 respectively to lock to the guide channel 24 in place. The locking pin 29 thus provides additional safety in case the locking mechanism 30 inadvertently disengages.
- Diagonal braces 25 connect a lower end of each guide channel 24 to the side rail 22 .
- Each guide channel 24 includes a releasable locking mechanism 30 for locking the platform 20 at a desired height.
- the releasable locking mechanism 30 comprises a U-shaped locking pin 32 that engages with the aligned openings 26 and 18 in the guide channel 24 and vertical supports 14 respectively to lock the side rail 22 at a desired height.
- Each locking pin 32 includes a pair of spaced apart legs 32 a connected by a cross member 32 b .
- An L-shaped bracket 34 supports the locking pin 32 .
- the L-shaped bracket includes a pair of openings 36 through which the legs 32 a of the locking pin 32 extend.
- Springs 38 bias surrounding each leg 32 a of the locking pin 32 bias the locking pin 32 to a locked position. The springs 38 are compressed when the locking pin 32 is pulled back to disengage the locking pin 32 and push the locking pin 32 back to an engaged position when the locking pin 32 is released.
- the scaffold 10 includes casters 50 disposed at the lower end of each vertical support 14 .
- Each caster 50 includes a stem 52 that extends into the lower end of a vertical support 14 as shown in FIG. 3 .
- the stem 52 of the caster 50 includes an opening 54 that is located to align with an opening 18 in the vertical support 14 when the stem 52 of the caster 50 is inserted into the vertical support 14 .
- the stem 52 is sufficiently long to overlap at least two openings 18 in the lower end of the vertical support 14 .
- a locking pin 56 passes through aligned opening 54 and 18 in the caster 50 and vertical support 14 respectively to secure the caster 50 to the vertical support 14 .
- the scaffold 10 as herein described includes a set of compression collars 100 to remove any play that may exist between the stems 52 of the casters 50 and the vertical supports 14 as shown in FIGS. 4-6 .
- the compression collar 100 is similar (in a geometrical sense) in shape to the vertical supports 14 and is sized to fit around and slide over the lower end of a vertical support 14 .
- the collar 100 includes an opening 102 that is aligned during use with one of the openings 18 in the vertical support 14 .
- a nut 106 aligned with the opening 102 is welded to the outer surface of the collar 100 .
- a bolt 104 is threadably engaged with the nut 106 on the collar 100 .
- the end of the threaded bolt 104 contacts the stem 52 of the caster 50 and presses the stem 52 of the caster 50 against the inner wall of the vertical support 14 to remove play between the stem 52 of the caster 50 and the inner wall of the vertical support 14 .
- the caster 50 can be replaced by a footpad (not shown) or other ground-engaging member comprising a generally flat pad that contacts the ground or underlying surface and a stem that extends into that extends into the lower end of a vertical support 14 .
- the footpad can be secured using the compression collar 100 in the same manner as the caster 50 .
- the scaffold 10 further comprises a set of clamps 110 designed to stabilize the connections between the guide channels 24 and vertical supports 14 as shown in FIGS. 7-9 .
- the clamps 110 comprise a C-shaped channel 112 comprising flanges 114 connected by a central member 116 .
- One of the flanges 114 includes an opening 118 .
- a nut 124 aligned with the opening 118 is welded to the outer surface of the flange 114 .
- a bolt 120 is threadably engaged with the nut 124 on the flange 114 .
- a pressure plate 122 is connected to the end of the bolt 120 .
- the pressure plate 122 may be fixedly attached or pivotally attached (e.g., via a ball joint) to the end of the bolt 120 .
- the C-shaped channel 112 of the clamp 110 is placed around a guide channel 24 on the adjustable platform 20 with the pressure plate 122 on the open side of the guide channel 24 .
- the pressure plate 122 engages the vertical support 14 and presses the vertical support 14 downward into the guide channel 24 and against the back wall of the guide channel 24 .
- the scaffold 10 further comprises four auxiliary braces 130 to prevent relative movement between the ladder frames 12 and platform due to play between the guide channels 24 and vertical supports 14 as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 .
- each brace comprises a tubular rod 132 having flanges 134 at each end that are bent at an 45 degree angle approximately relative to longitudinal axis of the rod 132 .
- Each brace 130 extends at a 45 degree angle between a respective one of the vertical supports 14 and a side rail 22 .
- the flanges 134 include openings 136 for securing the auxiliary brace 130 to the side rail 22 and vertical support 134 respectively.
- the ends of the auxiliary brace 130 are secured by conventional bolts 138 and nuts 140 .
- the opening 136 in the flange 134 at one end of the auxiliary brace 130 aligns with one of the openings 18 in a vertical supports 14 .
- the bolt 138 passes through the aligned openings 18 and 136 in the vertical supports 14 and flange 134 respectively and is secured by tightening the nut 140 .
- the opening 136 in the flange 134 at the other end of the auxiliary brace 130 aligns with an opening (not shown) in the side rail 22 .
- the bolt 138 passes through the aligned openings in the side rail 22 and flange 134 respectively and is secured by tightening the nut 140 .
- each brace 130 When the auxiliary brace 130 is installed, adjustment in the height of the platform 20 is prevented.
- the bolt 138 and nut 140 at the lower end of each brace 130 can be replaced by a quick connect coupling so that the braces 130 can be quickly connected and disconnected to adjust the height of the platform 20 .
- FIG. 12 illustrates the multi-purpose scaffold 10 configured according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
- the multi-purpose scaffold 10 comprises two ladder frames 12 , each comprising two vertical supports 14 connected by two or more cross members 16 , and an adjustable platform 20 supported between the two ladder frames 12 .
- Openings 18 are formed in the vertical supports 14 and are spaced 2 inches apart. As previously described, the openings 18 are engaged by the releasable locking mechanism 30 on platform 20 to secure the platform 20 at a desired height between the ladder frames 12 .
- multi-purpose scaffold 10 also comprises one or more stabilizer braces 150 to prevent movement of the ladder frames 12 relative to platform 20 .
- the stabilizer brace 150 is similar to the auxiliary brace 130 in that each stabilizer brace 150 also comprises a rigid, elongated support body, such as a tubular rod 152 , having flanges 154 , 156 at each terminal end of rod 152 .
- the flanges 154 , 156 are bent at a 45 degree angle approximately relative to a longitudinal axis of the rod 152 .
- Each stabilizer brace 150 extends at a 45 degree angle between a respective one of the vertical supports 14 and a side rail 22 .
- One end of the stabilizer brace 150 is secured to the scaffold 10 using mechanical fasteners 158 , such as a conventional bolt and nut.
- mechanical fasteners 158 such as a conventional bolt and nut.
- an opening (not shown but similar to opening 136 in FIG. 10 ) is formed in flange 154 that aligns with an opening (not shown) formed in side rail 22 .
- the bolt passes through the aligned openings in the flange 154 and side rail 22 , respectively, and is secured by tightening the nut.
- Flange 156 is not connected to vertical support 14 using a conventional nuts and bolts. Rather, flange 156 is fixedly attached to a clamp 160 that, in turn, is removably attached to a vertical support 14 .
- flange 156 is welded to an exterior surface of a wall 162 of clamp 160 , although other methods of fixedly attaching the flange 156 are also possible.
- Clamp 160 fits around vertical support 14 and comprises a handle 164 configured to move back and forth through a receiver 166 . The handle 164 is also configured to rotate in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions so as to tighten and loosen the clamp 160 from vertical support 14 .
- FIGS. 14-15 illustrate how clamp 160 is removably connected to vertical support 14 according to one embodiment.
- the wall 162 of clamp 160 forms a channel 174 that fits around the vertical support 14 .
- Clamp 160 further comprises a pressure plate 168 pivotably attached to a bolt 172 via a pivot member 170 .
- the pivot member 170 comprises a ball joint movably connecting the pressure plate 168 to the bolt 172 .
- the bolt 172 extends through the wall 162 and is attached to a receiver 166 .
- bolt 172 is threadably attached to the wall 162 .
- bolt 172 threadably attaches to a nut 176 that is fixedly attached to wall 162 .
- bolt 172 is attached to receiver 166 such that when a user rotates handle 164 , the bolt 172 also rotates to move the pressure plate 168 towards and away from vertical support 14 .
- the channel 174 of clamp 160 is placed around a vertical support 14 .
- Rotating the handle 164 in the clockwise direction also rotates the bolt 172 , thereby causing pressure plate 168 to move towards, and engage, the vertical support 14 .
- Continued rotation of handle 164 causes the pressure plate 168 to press vertical support 14 against an interior surface 178 of wall 162 .
- Rotating the handle 164 in the counter-clockwise direction also rotates bolt 172 thereby causing pressure plate 168 to move away from the vertical support 14 . This movement releases the vertical support 14 from its pressing engagement against the back interior surface 178 of wall 162 , thereby loosening the clamp 160 from vertical support 14 .
- handle 164 while facilitating the rotation of bolt 172 , is not needed. In some embodiments, such as the one seen in FIG. 15 , for example, the handle 164 and receiver 166 are not present. Instead, only the bolt 172 exists. Regardless, rotating the bolt 172 clockwise and counter clockwise causes the pressure plate 168 to move towards and away from vertical support 14 , as previously described.
- FIG. 16 illustrates an embodiment where four stabilizer braces 150 are installed. Further, because of its design, the stabilizer brace 150 is easily connected and disconnected from the multi-purpose scaffold 10 .
- FIG. 17 illustrates another embodiment of the multi-purpose scaffold 10 having a plurality of adjustable bases or “outriggers” 170 installed.
- each outrigger 170 is installed so as to extend at substantially a right angle relative to a longitudinal axis of a corresponding vertical support 14 to which it is attached. So installed, the outriggers 170 help to stabilize the scaffold 10 by reducing or eliminating sway experienced by the scaffold 10 when in use. This is especially beneficial when there are a plurality of scaffolds 10 stacked vertically.
- FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an adjustable outrigger configured according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- outrigger 170 comprises a triangular frame 180 that includes an elongated vertical member 182 , a base member 184 fixedly secured to a lower end of the elongated vertical member 182 , a telescoping member 186 extending from the base member 184 , and a rigid diagonal brace 190 extending between, and fixedly attached to, both the elongated vertical member 182 and the base member 184 .
- the diagonal brace 190 may be welded to both the elongated vertical member 182 and the base member 184 so as to prevent movement of these components relative to each other when the outrigger 170 is connected to the scaffold 10 .
- Base member 184 is fixedly attached (e.g., by welding) at one end to the elongated vertical member 184 .
- the telescoping member 186 of base member 184 has a castor assembly 210 fixedly attached at one end.
- the telescoping member 186 moves back and forth along a longitudinal axis of the base member 184 so as to adjust (i.e., increase and decrease) the footprint of the outrigger 170 .
- extending the telescoping member 186 increases the footprint of the outrigger 170 , and thus, thereby further stabililizes the scaffold 10 .
- the triangular frame 180 further comprises multiple casters 50 removably attached thereto.
- One castor 50 is removably secured to the elongated vertical member 182 using a compression collar 100 as previously illustrated in FIGS. 3-6 .
- the other castor 50 as described later in more detail, is removably attached to the castor assembly 210 .
- the casters 50 contact the underlying ground surface, and thus, provide stability for the scaffold 10 while still allowing a user to roll the scaffold 10 from place to place.
- the casters 50 can be replaced by a footpad (not shown) or other ground-engaging member comprising a generally flat pad that contacts the ground or underlying surface. As in the previous embodiments, the footpads can be secured using compression collar 100 in the same manner as the caster 50 .
- FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate one embodiment of the elongated vertical member 182 in more detail.
- the elongated vertical member 182 comprises a pair of flanges 202 , 204 connected by a central web 206 .
- the flanges 202 , 204 and the central web 206 form a C-shaped channel 200 that fits around the lower portion of a corresponding vertical support 14 .
- Each flange 202 , 204 further comprises a plurality of openings 192 that are spaced to align with the openings 18 formed in the vertical support 14 at preselected heights.
- a locking pin 56 may be passed through the aligned openings 192 and 18 to releasably secure the triangular frame 180 of outrigger 170 to the vertical support 14 .
- one or more clamps such as previously described clamp 110 , may be placed around the vertical support 14 and the elongated vertical member 182 to stabilize the connection between the vertical support 14 and the elongated vertical member 182 .
- FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a castor assembly 210 attached to one end of telescoping member 186 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.
- castor assembly 210 comprises a sleeve 212 fixedly attached (e.g., by welding) to telescoping member 186 .
- the sleeve 212 is formed by a pair of opposing flanges 214 , 216 connected by a central web 218 .
- the sleeve 212 forms a channel 220 configured to receive a stem 228 connected to castor 50 .
- a pair of mechanical fasteners such as threaded bolts 222 , 224 , are used in this embodiment to releasably secure the castor 50 to sleeve 212 .
- a first threaded bolt 222 threadably attaches to the central web 218 .
- a second threaded bolt 224 threadably attaches to flange 224 . Both bolts 222 and 224 extend through the sleeve 212 so as to contact respective upper and side surfaces of stem 228 .
- the first threaded bolt 222 is a leveling bolt. When tightened, the end of the first threaded bolt 222 contacts the upper surface of stem 228 and presses caster 50 in a downward direction. When loosened, threaded bolt 222 allows caster 50 to move in an upward direction. The threaded bolt 222 therefore allows a user to adjust the vertical height of the caster 50 to ensure that the scaffold 10 is level, and that caster 50 connects solidly with an uneven ground surface.
- the second threaded bolt 224 functions to secure the stem 228 against the inner wall of flange 214 .
- the second threaded bolt 224 contacts the side of stem 228 and presses the stem 228 against the inner wall surface of flange 214 . Pressing the stem 228 into the inner wall of flange 214 removes play between the stem 228 and sleeve 212 , thereby stabilizing scaffold 10 .
- the second threaded bolt 224 moves away from stem 228 , thereby allowing movement of the stem 228 . Such movement allows for the breakdown of the castor assembly 210 , and/or the replacement of castor 50 with another castor 50 or a footpad, as previously described.
- a locking pin 232 is passed through openings 226 formed in the flanges 214 , 216 , respectively, and through a through-hole 230 formed in stem 228 that is aligned with the openings 226 .
- the openings 226 in flanges 214 , 216 are formed as elongated slots for ease of aligning the openings 226 and the through-hole 230 .
- the stabilization components as herein described remove excess play between components of the scaffold and prevent racking to provide greater stability.
- the increased stability enhances worker's confidence when standing on the scaffold.
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Abstract
A stabilization component is described for a lightweight scaffold having a pair of ladder frames supporting an adjustable platform. Each ladder frame has two vertical supports connected by cross members. An outrigger, which is formed as a triangular frame, is releasably connected to each vertical support via a channel that fits around the vertical support and one or more mechanical fasteners. One or more ground-engaging members are removably secured to the outrigger. When installed, the outriggers increase the footprint size of the lightweight scaffold thereby reducing shaking and swaying of the lightweight scaffold.
Description
- The present disclosure relates generally to scaffolding and, more particularly, to components used for stabilizing a scaffold during use.
- Lightweight scaffolds made from metal tubing are commercially available for use when working close to the ground. One such scaffold comprises an adjustable platform supported between two ladder frames. The platform includes guide channels at each end that slide up and down along the vertical supports of the ladder frames. Casters insert into the lower ends of the vertical supports so that the scaffold can roll on the floor or other support surface. Also, the scaffolds are configured to be stacked vertically.
- While lightweight scaffolds provide a low cost alternative to more heavy duty scaffolding when working close to the ground, such lightweight scaffolds lack the stability of more heavy duty scaffolds, particularly when the adjustable platform is raised high or when the scaffolds are stacked vertically. This lack of stability can be due to various factors, such as excess play between components of the scaffold, lack of reinforcing, the lightweight material used for the scaffolding, and lack of a sufficiently broad base for the scaffold. Accordingly, there is a need for ways to improve the stability of commonly used lightweight scaffolds.
- The present disclosure relates to stabilization of lightweight scaffolds that are readily available commercially. In the exemplary embodiments, the stabilization components are configured for use with a scaffold comprising two ladder frames, an adjustable platform supported between the two ladder frames, and ground-engaging members such as casters. Each ladder frame includes two vertical supports connected by cross members. The platform is adjustable and comprises two side rails having guide channels at each end thereof that slide along the vertical supports.
- According to one aspect of the disclosure, the lightweight scaffold further comprises an outrigger releasably connected to each vertical support. The outrigger comprises a triangular frame. A channel, which is fixedly attached to the triangular frame, fits around the vertical support. One or more mechanical fasteners, such as lock pins, for example, are used to releasably connect the channel to the vertical support. A first ground-engaging member (e.g., a caster) is removably secured to the triangular frame.
- According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a scaffold comprises first and second ladder frames, each of which comprises two vertical supports made of a tubular material connected by two or more cross members, and an adjustable platform configured to be supported between the first and second ladder frames. Additionally, the scaffold comprises a triangular frame releasably connected to each vertical support. In this aspect, the triangular frame comprises an elongated vertical member, a base member fixedly secured to a lower end of the elongated vertical member, a brace fixedly secured to, and extending diagonally between, a top end of the elongated vertical member and the base member, and a sleeve fixedly attached to the base member.
- According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an outrigger is provided for a scaffold having first and second ladder frames, each of which includes two vertical supports made of a tubular material connected by two or more cross members, an adjustable platform configured to be supported between the first and second ladder frames, and a triangular frame. In this aspect, the triangular frame comprises an elongated vertical member made of a tubular material, a channel fixedly attached to the elongated vertical member and configured to fit around the vertical support, a telescoping base member fixedly secured to a lower end of the elongated vertical member, a brace extending between the telescoping base member and a top end of the elongated vertical member, and a sleeve fixedly attached to the base member. Additionally, the outrigger further comprises first and second ground-engaging members, at least one of which is removably is secured to the sleeve.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a scaffold including two ladder frames and an adjustable platform according to one exemplary embodiment. -
FIG. 2 is a partial perspective view of a side rail and guide channel for the adjustable platform. -
FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view a caster for the scaffold. -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the compression collar. -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a compression collar installed on the lower end of a vertical support to stabilize the connection between the vertical support and the caster. -
FIG. 6 is a cross section through the lower end of a vertical support with a clamping collar installed. -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a clamp. -
FIG. 8 is perspective view of the clamp installed on the lower end of a guide channel to stabilize the connection between the guide channel and the vertical support on which the guide channel slides. -
FIG. 9 is a cross section through the lower end of a guide channel with a clamp installed. -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the auxiliary brace. -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the scaffold with the compression collar, clamp and auxiliary brace installed. -
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a section of the scaffold with a stabilizer brace installed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the stabilizer brace attached to a clamp, and the clamp releasably coupled to the scaffold according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 14 is a close-up view of the clamp connected to one of the vertical supports of the scaffold according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the clamp according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 16 illustrates the scaffold having a plurality of stabilizer braces installed thereon according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the scaffold with an adjustable outrigger installed according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an adjustable outrigger configured according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIGS. 19A-19B are cross sections of an outrigger and a vertical support of the scaffold according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 19C is a perspective view illustrating how an outrigger connects to a vertical support of the scaffold according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. -
FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating a castor assembly attached to a telescoping member of the outrigger according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. - Referring now to the drawings,
FIG. 1 illustrates amulti-purpose scaffold 10 according to an exemplary embodiment. Themulti-purpose scaffold 10 comprises twoladder frames 12 and aplatform 20 supported between the twoladder frames 12. The height of theplatform 20 is adjustable. - Each
ladder frame 12 comprises twovertical supports 14 connected by two ormore cross members 16. Thevertical supports 14 andcross members 16 are preferably made of a metal tubing or other tubular material. Thecross members 16 are preferably welded at each end to respective ones of the vertical supports 14 so that eachladder frame 12 is a unitary structure. A series ofopenings 18 are formed in thevertical supports 14 and are spaced 2 inches apart. As will be hereinafter described in more detail, theopenings 18 are engaged by areleasable locking mechanism 30 on theplatform 20 to secure theplatform 20 at a desired height between theladder frames 12. - The
platform 20 comprises twoside rails 22 that extend between theladder frames 12 and adeck 40 that is supported by theside rails 22. As seen inFIG. 2 , theside rails 22 comprises an upper angle 22 a and alower angle 22 b connected by avertical wall 22 c. The upper angle 22 a defines ashoulder 28 on which thedeck 40 rests. Thedeck 40 is held in place bysecurity latches 42. - The
side rails 22 connect at each end to a C-shaped guide channel 24 sized to fit around thevertical supports 14 of theladder frames 12. Theguide channels 24 are configured to slide along thevertical supports 14 of the ladder frames 12 at each end of thescaffold 10 to adjust the height of theplatform 20. Twoopenings 26 are formed in the inner sidewall of eachguide channel 24 near an upper end of theguide channel 24. Theopenings 26 are spaced to align with theopenings 18 in thevertical supports 14 of theladder frame 12 at preselected heights. Theopenings 26 in theguide channels 24 are engaged by areleasable locking mechanism 30 on theplatform 20 to secure theplatform 20 at a desired height between the ladder frames 12. Athird opening 28 is formed near a lower end of theguide channel 24 and aligns with anopening 18 in thevertical support 14. A lockingpin 29 passes through alignedopening guide channel 24 andvertical support 14 respectively to lock to theguide channel 24 in place. The lockingpin 29 thus provides additional safety in case thelocking mechanism 30 inadvertently disengages.Diagonal braces 25 connect a lower end of eachguide channel 24 to theside rail 22. - Each
guide channel 24 includes areleasable locking mechanism 30 for locking theplatform 20 at a desired height. In one embodiment, thereleasable locking mechanism 30 comprises aU-shaped locking pin 32 that engages with the alignedopenings guide channel 24 andvertical supports 14 respectively to lock theside rail 22 at a desired height. Each lockingpin 32 includes a pair of spaced apart legs 32 a connected by a cross member 32 b. An L-shapedbracket 34 supports the lockingpin 32. The L-shaped bracket includes a pair of openings 36 through which the legs 32 a of the lockingpin 32 extend.Springs 38 bias surrounding each leg 32 a of the lockingpin 32 bias the lockingpin 32 to a locked position. Thesprings 38 are compressed when the lockingpin 32 is pulled back to disengage the lockingpin 32 and push thelocking pin 32 back to an engaged position when the lockingpin 32 is released. - In some embodiments, the
scaffold 10 includescasters 50 disposed at the lower end of eachvertical support 14. Eachcaster 50 includes astem 52 that extends into the lower end of avertical support 14 as shown inFIG. 3 . Thestem 52 of thecaster 50 includes anopening 54 that is located to align with anopening 18 in thevertical support 14 when thestem 52 of thecaster 50 is inserted into thevertical support 14. Thestem 52 is sufficiently long to overlap at least twoopenings 18 in the lower end of thevertical support 14. A lockingpin 56 passes through alignedopening caster 50 andvertical support 14 respectively to secure thecaster 50 to thevertical support 14. - In some embodiments, the
scaffold 10 as herein described includes a set ofcompression collars 100 to remove any play that may exist between the stems 52 of thecasters 50 and thevertical supports 14 as shown inFIGS. 4-6 . Thecompression collar 100 is similar (in a geometrical sense) in shape to thevertical supports 14 and is sized to fit around and slide over the lower end of avertical support 14. Thecollar 100 includes anopening 102 that is aligned during use with one of theopenings 18 in thevertical support 14. Anut 106 aligned with theopening 102 is welded to the outer surface of thecollar 100. Abolt 104 is threadably engaged with thenut 106 on thecollar 100. When tightened, the end of the threadedbolt 104 contacts thestem 52 of thecaster 50 and presses thestem 52 of thecaster 50 against the inner wall of thevertical support 14 to remove play between thestem 52 of thecaster 50 and the inner wall of thevertical support 14. - In some embodiments, the
caster 50 can be replaced by a footpad (not shown) or other ground-engaging member comprising a generally flat pad that contacts the ground or underlying surface and a stem that extends into that extends into the lower end of avertical support 14. The footpad can be secured using thecompression collar 100 in the same manner as thecaster 50. - In some embodiments, the
scaffold 10 further comprises a set ofclamps 110 designed to stabilize the connections between theguide channels 24 andvertical supports 14 as shown inFIGS. 7-9 . Theclamps 110 comprise a C-shapedchannel 112 comprisingflanges 114 connected by acentral member 116. One of theflanges 114 includes anopening 118. Anut 124 aligned with theopening 118 is welded to the outer surface of theflange 114. Abolt 120 is threadably engaged with thenut 124 on theflange 114. Apressure plate 122 is connected to the end of thebolt 120. Thepressure plate 122 may be fixedly attached or pivotally attached (e.g., via a ball joint) to the end of thebolt 120. - In use, the C-shaped
channel 112 of theclamp 110 is placed around aguide channel 24 on theadjustable platform 20 with thepressure plate 122 on the open side of theguide channel 24. When thebolt 120 is tightened, thepressure plate 122 engages thevertical support 14 and presses thevertical support 14 downward into theguide channel 24 and against the back wall of theguide channel 24. - In some embodiments, the
scaffold 10 further comprises fourauxiliary braces 130 to prevent relative movement between the ladder frames 12 and platform due to play between theguide channels 24 andvertical supports 14 as shown inFIGS. 10 and 11 . In one embodiments, each brace comprises atubular rod 132 havingflanges 134 at each end that are bent at an 45 degree angle approximately relative to longitudinal axis of therod 132. Eachbrace 130 extends at a 45 degree angle between a respective one of thevertical supports 14 and aside rail 22. Theflanges 134 includeopenings 136 for securing theauxiliary brace 130 to theside rail 22 andvertical support 134 respectively. The ends of theauxiliary brace 130 are secured byconventional bolts 138 and nuts 140. In particular, theopening 136 in theflange 134 at one end of theauxiliary brace 130 aligns with one of theopenings 18 in a vertical supports 14. Thebolt 138 passes through the alignedopenings vertical supports 14 andflange 134 respectively and is secured by tightening thenut 140. Theopening 136 in theflange 134 at the other end of theauxiliary brace 130 aligns with an opening (not shown) in theside rail 22. Thebolt 138 passes through the aligned openings in theside rail 22 andflange 134 respectively and is secured by tightening thenut 140. - When the
auxiliary brace 130 is installed, adjustment in the height of theplatform 20 is prevented. In some embodiments, thebolt 138 andnut 140 at the lower end of eachbrace 130 can be replaced by a quick connect coupling so that thebraces 130 can be quickly connected and disconnected to adjust the height of theplatform 20. -
FIG. 12 illustrates themulti-purpose scaffold 10 configured according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. As in the previous embodiments, themulti-purpose scaffold 10 comprises two ladder frames 12, each comprising twovertical supports 14 connected by two ormore cross members 16, and anadjustable platform 20 supported between the two ladder frames 12.Openings 18 are formed in thevertical supports 14 and are spaced 2 inches apart. As previously described, theopenings 18 are engaged by thereleasable locking mechanism 30 onplatform 20 to secure theplatform 20 at a desired height between the ladder frames 12. - In this embodiment,
multi-purpose scaffold 10 also comprises one or more stabilizer braces 150 to prevent movement of the ladder frames 12 relative toplatform 20. Thestabilizer brace 150 is similar to theauxiliary brace 130 in that eachstabilizer brace 150 also comprises a rigid, elongated support body, such as atubular rod 152, havingflanges rod 152. Theflanges rod 152. Eachstabilizer brace 150 extends at a 45 degree angle between a respective one of thevertical supports 14 and aside rail 22. - One end of the
stabilizer brace 150 is secured to thescaffold 10 usingmechanical fasteners 158, such as a conventional bolt and nut. In particular, an opening (not shown but similar to opening 136 inFIG. 10 ) is formed inflange 154 that aligns with an opening (not shown) formed inside rail 22. The bolt passes through the aligned openings in theflange 154 andside rail 22, respectively, and is secured by tightening the nut. -
Flange 156, however, is not connected tovertical support 14 using a conventional nuts and bolts. Rather,flange 156 is fixedly attached to aclamp 160 that, in turn, is removably attached to avertical support 14. In particular, as seen in the embodiment ofFIG. 13 ,flange 156 is welded to an exterior surface of awall 162 ofclamp 160, although other methods of fixedly attaching theflange 156 are also possible. Clamp 160 fits aroundvertical support 14 and comprises ahandle 164 configured to move back and forth through areceiver 166. Thehandle 164 is also configured to rotate in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions so as to tighten and loosen theclamp 160 fromvertical support 14. -
FIGS. 14-15 illustrate howclamp 160 is removably connected tovertical support 14 according to one embodiment. As seen in these figures, thewall 162 ofclamp 160 forms achannel 174 that fits around thevertical support 14. Clamp 160 further comprises apressure plate 168 pivotably attached to abolt 172 via apivot member 170. In this embodiment, thepivot member 170 comprises a ball joint movably connecting thepressure plate 168 to thebolt 172. - The
bolt 172 extends through thewall 162 and is attached to areceiver 166. In one embodiment,bolt 172 is threadably attached to thewall 162. In other embodiments, however, bolt 172 threadably attaches to anut 176 that is fixedly attached towall 162. In any case,bolt 172 is attached toreceiver 166 such that when a user rotateshandle 164, thebolt 172 also rotates to move thepressure plate 168 towards and away fromvertical support 14. - In use, the
channel 174 ofclamp 160 is placed around avertical support 14. Rotating thehandle 164 in the clockwise direction also rotates thebolt 172, thereby causingpressure plate 168 to move towards, and engage, thevertical support 14. Continued rotation ofhandle 164 causes thepressure plate 168 to pressvertical support 14 against aninterior surface 178 ofwall 162. Rotating thehandle 164 in the counter-clockwise direction, however, also rotatesbolt 172 thereby causingpressure plate 168 to move away from thevertical support 14. This movement releases thevertical support 14 from its pressing engagement against the backinterior surface 178 ofwall 162, thereby loosening theclamp 160 fromvertical support 14. - It should be noted that
handle 164, while facilitating the rotation ofbolt 172, is not needed. In some embodiments, such as the one seen inFIG. 15 , for example, thehandle 164 andreceiver 166 are not present. Instead, only thebolt 172 exists. Regardless, rotating thebolt 172 clockwise and counter clockwise causes thepressure plate 168 to move towards and away fromvertical support 14, as previously described. - When the
stabilizer brace 150 is installed, adjustment in the height of theplatform 20 is prevented and the stability of themulti-purpose scaffold 10 is greatly enhanced. This is especially true when a plurality of stabilizer braces 150 are installed.FIG. 16 , for example, illustrates an embodiment where four stabilizer braces 150 are installed. Further, because of its design, thestabilizer brace 150 is easily connected and disconnected from themulti-purpose scaffold 10. -
FIG. 17 illustrates another embodiment of themulti-purpose scaffold 10 having a plurality of adjustable bases or “outriggers” 170 installed. In this embodiment, there are twooutriggers 170 connected to eachladder frame 12, with oneoutrigger 170 releasably connected to a lower portion of eachvertical support 14. As seen inFIG. 17 , eachoutrigger 170 is installed so as to extend at substantially a right angle relative to a longitudinal axis of a correspondingvertical support 14 to which it is attached. So installed, theoutriggers 170 help to stabilize thescaffold 10 by reducing or eliminating sway experienced by thescaffold 10 when in use. This is especially beneficial when there are a plurality ofscaffolds 10 stacked vertically. -
FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an adjustable outrigger configured according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As seen in this embodiment,outrigger 170 comprises atriangular frame 180 that includes an elongatedvertical member 182, abase member 184 fixedly secured to a lower end of the elongatedvertical member 182, atelescoping member 186 extending from thebase member 184, and a rigiddiagonal brace 190 extending between, and fixedly attached to, both the elongatedvertical member 182 and thebase member 184. By way of example only, thediagonal brace 190 may be welded to both the elongatedvertical member 182 and thebase member 184 so as to prevent movement of these components relative to each other when theoutrigger 170 is connected to thescaffold 10. -
Base member 184 is fixedly attached (e.g., by welding) at one end to the elongatedvertical member 184. Thetelescoping member 186 ofbase member 184 has acastor assembly 210 fixedly attached at one end. Thetelescoping member 186 moves back and forth along a longitudinal axis of thebase member 184 so as to adjust (i.e., increase and decrease) the footprint of theoutrigger 170. Particularly, extending thetelescoping member 186 increases the footprint of theoutrigger 170, and thus, thereby further stabililizes thescaffold 10. - The
triangular frame 180 further comprisesmultiple casters 50 removably attached thereto. Onecastor 50 is removably secured to the elongatedvertical member 182 using acompression collar 100 as previously illustrated inFIGS. 3-6 . Theother castor 50, as described later in more detail, is removably attached to thecastor assembly 210. Thecasters 50 contact the underlying ground surface, and thus, provide stability for thescaffold 10 while still allowing a user to roll thescaffold 10 from place to place. In some embodiments, thecasters 50 can be replaced by a footpad (not shown) or other ground-engaging member comprising a generally flat pad that contacts the ground or underlying surface. As in the previous embodiments, the footpads can be secured usingcompression collar 100 in the same manner as thecaster 50. -
FIGS. 19A-19C illustrate one embodiment of the elongatedvertical member 182 in more detail. As seen in these figures, the elongatedvertical member 182 comprises a pair offlanges central web 206. Theflanges central web 206 form a C-shapedchannel 200 that fits around the lower portion of a correspondingvertical support 14. Eachflange openings 192 that are spaced to align with theopenings 18 formed in thevertical support 14 at preselected heights. When thevertical support 14 is inchannel 200, a lockingpin 56 may be passed through the alignedopenings triangular frame 180 ofoutrigger 170 to thevertical support 14. While not specifically seen inFIGS. 19A-19C , one or more clamps, such as previously describedclamp 110, may be placed around thevertical support 14 and the elongatedvertical member 182 to stabilize the connection between thevertical support 14 and the elongatedvertical member 182. -
FIG. 20 is a perspective view illustrating acastor assembly 210 attached to one end of telescopingmember 186 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As seen in this figure,castor assembly 210 comprises asleeve 212 fixedly attached (e.g., by welding) to telescopingmember 186. Thesleeve 212 is formed by a pair of opposingflanges central web 218. Thesleeve 212 forms achannel 220 configured to receive astem 228 connected tocastor 50. - A pair of mechanical fasteners, such as threaded
bolts castor 50 tosleeve 212. In particular, a first threadedbolt 222 threadably attaches to thecentral web 218. A second threadedbolt 224 threadably attaches to flange 224. Bothbolts sleeve 212 so as to contact respective upper and side surfaces ofstem 228. - The first threaded
bolt 222 is a leveling bolt. When tightened, the end of the first threadedbolt 222 contacts the upper surface ofstem 228 and pressescaster 50 in a downward direction. When loosened, threadedbolt 222 allowscaster 50 to move in an upward direction. The threadedbolt 222 therefore allows a user to adjust the vertical height of thecaster 50 to ensure that thescaffold 10 is level, and thatcaster 50 connects solidly with an uneven ground surface. - The second threaded
bolt 224 functions to secure thestem 228 against the inner wall offlange 214. When tightened, the second threadedbolt 224 contacts the side ofstem 228 and presses thestem 228 against the inner wall surface offlange 214. Pressing thestem 228 into the inner wall offlange 214 removes play between thestem 228 andsleeve 212, thereby stabilizingscaffold 10. When loosened, the second threadedbolt 224 moves away fromstem 228, thereby allowing movement of thestem 228. Such movement allows for the breakdown of thecastor assembly 210, and/or the replacement ofcastor 50 with anothercastor 50 or a footpad, as previously described. - To releasably connect the
caster 50 to thesleeve 212, alocking pin 232 is passed throughopenings 226 formed in theflanges hole 230 formed instem 228 that is aligned with theopenings 226. In at least one embodiment, theopenings 226 inflanges openings 226 and the through-hole 230. - The stabilization components as herein described remove excess play between components of the scaffold and prevent racking to provide greater stability. The increased stability enhances worker's confidence when standing on the scaffold.
Claims (20)
1. A scaffold comprising:
first and second ladder frames, each ladder frame comprising two vertical supports made of a tubular material connected by two or more cross members;
a platform configured to be supported between the first and second ladder frames; and
an outrigger releasably connected to each vertical support, the outrigger comprising:
a triangular frame;
a channel fixedly attached to the triangular frame and configured to fit around the vertical support;
one or more mechanical fasteners configured to releasably connect the channel to the vertical support; and
a first ground-engaging member removably secured to the triangular frame.
2. The scaffold of claim 1 wherein the channel comprises a pair of opposing flanges connected by a central web, with each flange comprising one or more openings that align with corresponding openings formed in the vertical support when the channel fits around the vertical support.
3. The scaffold of claim 2 further comprising one or more locking pins configured to pass through corresponding aligned openings in the flanges and the vertical support to releasably connect the outrigger to the vertical support.
4. The scaffold of claim 1 wherein the triangular frame comprises:
an elongated vertical member;
a base member fixedly secured to a lower end of the elongated vertical member, and comprising a telescoping member configured to adjust a length of the base member;
a brace fixedly secured to, and extending diagonally between, a top end of the elongated vertical member and the base member; and
a sleeve fixedly attached to the telescoping member.
5. The scaffold of claim 4 wherein the first ground-engaging member has a stem configured to extend into the sleeve, and wherein the scaffold further comprises:
an opening in the stem of the first ground-engaging member that aligns with a first opening formed in the sleeve; and
a locking pin configured to pass through the first opening and the opening in the stem of the first ground-engaging member to lock the first ground engaging member to the sleeve.
6. The scaffold of claim 5 wherein the first opening is formed as an elongated slot.
7. The scaffold of claim 5 further comprising a bolt threadably engaged with the sleeve that, when tightened, extends through the sleeve and presses the stem of the first ground-engaging member against an interior wall of the sleeve.
8. The scaffold of claim 5 further comprising a leveling member threadably engaged with the sleeve that, when tightened, extends through the sleeve and presses on an upper surface of the stem of the first ground-engaging member to raise the base member.
9. The scaffold of claim 4 further comprising:
a second ground-engaging member having a stem configured to extend into the lower part of the elongated vertical member;
an opening in the stem of the second ground-engaging member that aligns with an opening in the elongated vertical member; and
a locking pin configured to pass through the opening in the elongated vertical member and the opening in the stem of the second ground-engaging member to lock the second ground engaging member to the elongated vertical member.
10. A scaffold comprising:
first and second ladder frames, each ladder frame comprising two vertical supports made of a tubular material connected by two or more cross members;
an adjustable platform configured to be supported between the first and second ladder frames; and
a triangular frame releasably connected to each vertical support, the triangular frame comprising:
an elongated vertical member;
a base member fixedly secured to a lower end of the elongated vertical member;
a brace fixedly secured to, and extending diagonally between, a top end of the elongated vertical member and the base member; and
a sleeve fixedly attached to the base member.
11. The scaffold of claim 10 further comprising first and second ground-engaging members, wherein the first ground-engaging member is configured to be removably secured to the triangular frame.
12. The scaffold of claim 11 wherein the first ground-engaging member comprises a stem configured to extend into a sleeve fixedly attached to the base member, and wherein when the stem extends into the sleeve, an opening in the stem aligns with a corresponding opening formed in the sleeve.
13. The scaffold of claim 12 further comprising a locking pin configured to pass through the corresponding slot formed in the sleeve and the opening in the stem to lock the first ground engaging member to the sleeve.
14. The scaffold of claim 12 further comprising a bolt threadably engaged with the sleeve that, when tightened, extends through the sleeve and presses the stem of the first ground-engaging member against an interior wall of the sleeve.
15. The scaffold of claim 11 wherein the second ground-engaging member is configured to be removably secured to a lower end of a respective vertical support.
16. The scaffold of claim 11 wherein the second ground-engaging member is configured to be removably secured to the elongated vertical member.
17. The scaffold of claim 10 further comprising an elongated C-channel fixedly attached to the vertical member, and wherein the C-channel is configured to fit around the vertical member and to releasably connect the triangular frame to the vertical member.
18. The scaffold of claim 17 wherein the C-channel comprises first and second opposing flanges connected by a central web, and wherein each flange comprises an opening that aligns with a corresponding opening formed in the vertical member when the channel fits around the vertical member.
19. The scaffold of claim 18 further comprising a locking pin that passes through the aligned openings in the flanges and the vertical member to releasably connect the triangular frame to the vertical member.
20. An outrigger for a scaffold having first and second ladder frames, each ladder frame comprising two vertical supports made of a tubular material connected by two or more cross members, and an adjustable platform configured to be supported between the first and second ladder frames, the outrigger comprising:
a triangular frame comprising:
an elongated vertical member made of a tubular material;
a channel fixedly attached to the elongated vertical member and configured to fit around the vertical support;
a telescoping base member fixedly secured to a lower end of the elongated vertical member;
a brace extending between the telescoping base member and a top end of the elongated vertical member; and
a sleeve fixedly attached to the base member; and
first and second ground-engaging members, wherein at least one of the first and second removably is secured to the sleeve.
Priority Applications (1)
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US17/151,239 US20210222442A1 (en) | 2020-01-17 | 2021-01-18 | Adjustable Base for a Multi-Purpose Scaffold |
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US20210062580A1 (en) * | 2019-08-30 | 2021-03-04 | Grady F. Smith | Stabilization of Multi-Purpose Scaffold |
US20220325538A1 (en) * | 2021-04-09 | 2022-10-13 | Grady F. Smith | Locking Pin for Multifunction Scaffold |
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US20210062580A1 (en) * | 2019-08-30 | 2021-03-04 | Grady F. Smith | Stabilization of Multi-Purpose Scaffold |
US20220325538A1 (en) * | 2021-04-09 | 2022-10-13 | Grady F. Smith | Locking Pin for Multifunction Scaffold |
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