U.S. patent application number 14/184852 was filed with the patent office on 2014-12-18 for support apparatus for barrier means and method of use thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to Rapid EPS Ltd.. The applicant listed for this patent is Rapid EPS Ltd.. Invention is credited to David Brine, Peter Hewson, John Paul Shepardson.
Application Number | 20140367628 14/184852 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 52020700 |
Filed Date | 2014-12-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140367628 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hewson; Peter ; et
al. |
December 18, 2014 |
SUPPORT APPARATUS FOR BARRIER MEANS AND METHOD OF USE THEREOF
Abstract
Support apparatus is provided for barrier means. The support
apparatus includes support means for supporting one or more barrier
means therewith in use. Movement means are provided for allowing
movement of the support apparatus relative to a surface in use.
Stop means are provided for stopping or preventing movement of the
movement means in use.
Inventors: |
Hewson; Peter; (Leeds,
GB) ; Brine; David; (Leeds, GB) ; Shepardson;
John Paul; (Leeds, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Rapid EPS Ltd. |
Leeds |
|
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
Rapid EPS Ltd.
Leeds
GB
|
Family ID: |
52020700 |
Appl. No.: |
14/184852 |
Filed: |
March 24, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
13928556 |
Jun 27, 2013 |
|
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14184852 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
256/65.14 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04G 5/142 20130101;
E04G 21/3242 20130101; E04G 2005/148 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
256/65.14 |
International
Class: |
E04H 17/14 20060101
E04H017/14 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 17, 2013 |
GB |
GB 1310741.2 |
Feb 14, 2014 |
GB |
GB 1402639.7 |
Claims
1. Support apparatus for barrier means, said support apparatus
including support means for supporting one or more barrier means
therewith in use, movement means for allowing movement of the
support apparatus relative to a surface in use and stop means for
stopping or substantially preventing movement of the movement means
or support apparatus in use.
2. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the support
apparatus includes a body portion comprising at least two spaced
apart members or plate like members and the support means is
provided between said at least two spaced apart members or plate
like members.
3. Support apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the body portion
includes a pair of inner members or plate like members and a pair
of outer members or plate like members.
4. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein one or more
adjustment mechanisms are provided to allow adjustment of the
distance between two or more movement means in a horizontal and/or
vertical direction and/or for adjusting the distance between two or
more spaced apart members forming part of the support means.
5. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein barrier means are
integral with the support means, or are attachable or detachably
attachable to the support means using attachment means.
6. Support apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the attachment
means include any or any combination of one or more pins,
inter-engaging members, nuts and bolts, screws, clips, welding,
adhesive or chains.
7. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the support means
include at least one channel member, sleeve member, aperture and/or
recess defining an opening, and an end of the barrier means is
locatable in said opening in use.
8. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the movement
means includes any or any combination of one or more rollers,
wheels, drums, ball members, or ball bearings.
9. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the stop means is
movable between an actuated position, wherein it stops or
substantially prevents movement of the movement means or support
apparatus, to a non-actuated position, wherein it allows movement
of the movement means or support apparatus.
10. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the stop means
includes any or any combination of one or more teeth, braking
members, locking members, cam members, cam surfaces or cam
wheels.
11. Support apparatus according to claim 10 wherein rotation or
movement of the stop means, cam wheel, cam member or cam surface in
a first direction or in a forwardly allows relatively free movement
of the stop means, cam wheel, cam member or cam surface and thus
movement of the movement means and support apparatus; rotation or
movement of the stop means, cam wheel, cam member or cam surface in
a second direction or in a rearwardly direction moves the stop
means, cam wheel, cam member or cam surface into a position whereby
further movement of the stop means, cam wheel, cam member or cam
surface and thus movement of the movement means and support
apparatus, is substantially prevented.
12. Support apparatus according to claim 10 wherein an off-centered
part and/or weighted part of the stop means, cam wheel, cam member
or cam surface is/are arranged to engage a floor surface in use to
form an actuated position of the stop means, cam wheel, cam member
or cam surface such that further rotation or movement of the stop
means, cam wheel, cam member or cam surface is substantially
prevented.
13. Support apparatus according to claim 9 wherein user actuation
means are provided to move the stop means between the actuated and
non-actuated positions.
14. Support apparatus according to claim 13 wherein the user
actuation means includes a brake cable and a handle mechanism to
actuate said brake cable.
15. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein first and at
least second movement means are provided on or associated with the
support apparatus, the first and at least second movement means
arranged a spaced distance apart in a substantially vertical or
upright axis and/or in a substantially horizontal direction.
16. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein first and at
least second movement means are provided in a substantially
horizontal plane and at least third movement means are provided in
a substantially vertical plane or upright direction, the first and
second movement means provided in a plane substantially transverse
or perpendicular to the plane in which the at least third movement
means are provided.
17. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein guard or cover
means are provided to at least partially cover the stop means,
movement means and/or support means in use.
18. Support apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the barrier
means include any or any combination of one or more frame members,
meshing, netting, fencing, telescopic frame members, pivotably or
hingedly mounted frame members or a substantially U-shaped
frame.
19. A method of using support apparatus, said support apparatus
including support means for supporting one or more barrier means
therewith in use, and wherein said method includes moving the
support apparatus to a desired position relative to a surface in
use using movement means, and wherein stop means are provided on or
associated with the apparatus for stopping or substantially
preventing movement of the movement means or support apparatus when
said stop means are actuated.
20. A fall prevention system, said system including support
apparatus and barrier means, said support apparatus including
support means for supporting one or more of said barrier means
therewith in use, movement means for allowing movement of at least
the support apparatus relative to a surface in use and stop means
for stopping or substantially preventing movement of the movement
means or support apparatus in use.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to United Kingdom
Application No. GB1402639.7 filed Feb. 14, 2014, and is also a
Continuation-in-Part of U.S. application Ser. No. 13/928,556 filed
Jun. 27, 2013, which claims priority to United Kingdom Application
No. GB1310741.2 filed Jun. 17, 2013, each of which is herein
incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to support apparatus for
barrier means and to a method of use thereof.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Although the following description refers almost exclusively
to support apparatus for barrier means for use as part of a fall
prevention system, it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the
art that the support apparatus of the present invention could be
used to support any item or items for any suitable purpose.
[0004] Conventionally during the construction of steel frame
buildings, corrugated decking is placed between I-beams, rolled
steel joists (RSJ s) or any structural steel section of the
building frame, and concrete is poured onto the decking to form one
or more floor surfaces within the building frame. Typically, the
construction workers who perform the task of fitting the corrugated
decking work adjacent one or more exposed edges of the building
frame. This is a particular problem if the building frame includes
a number of storeys or floors because any fall from the building
frame is likely to cause injury to the construction worker and
could be fatal. Although construction workers working against
exposed edges tend to be connected to the building frame by safety
ropes to prevent the workers from falling off the building frame,
the risk of injury if they did fall is still present. In addition,
in order to improve the safety of the construction workers, it is
common to use a net and scaffolding system adjacent the exposed
edge to catch any construction worker who may fall from the exposed
edge. However, the provision of a net and scaffolding system is
expensive and is time consuming and cumbersome to move as the
building work progresses.
[0005] Similar safety problems to those described above are
encountered during the construction of wooden frame buildings.
However, rather than corrugated decking being used, cross laminated
timber (CLT) decking is used.
[0006] It is therefore an aim of the present invention to provide
support apparatus for barrier means that overcomes the
abovementioned problems.
[0007] It is a further aim of the present invention to provide a
method of using support apparatus for barrier means that overcomes
the abovementioned problems.
[0008] It is a yet further aim of the present invention to provide
a fall prevention system.
[0009] It is a yet further aim of the present invention to provide
a method of using a fall prevention system.
[0010] According to a first aspect of the present invention there
is provided support apparatus for barrier means, said support
apparatus including support means for supporting one or more
barrier means therewith in use, movement means for allowing
movement of the support apparatus relative to a surface in use and
stop means for stopping or substantially preventing movement of the
movement means.
[0011] Thus, the present invention provides movable support
apparatus for barrier means that allows the support apparatus to be
moved relative to a surface when needed but prevents movement of
the support apparatus when in a required position. This apparatus
is particularly advantageous for use in the construction industry
to support one or more safety barriers. The apparatus can be used
adjacent an exposed edge of a building frame to prevent
construction workers from falling from the building frame during
construction work. The support apparatus can be easily moved by a
construction worker as the building structure progresses.
[0012] Preferably the support apparatus includes a body portion and
the support means are provided on or associated with the body
portion.
[0013] In one embodiment the body portion includes at least two
spaced apart plate members.
[0014] Preferably the support means are provided between said at
least two spaced apart plate members.
[0015] Preferably one or more bridging members are provided between
said at least two spaced apart plate members to provide the plate
members with strength and rigidity.
[0016] Preferably the at least two spaced apart plate members are
arranged substantially parallel to each other.
[0017] In one embodiment the body portion includes a pair of inner
plate members and a pair of outer plate members.
[0018] Preferably the distance between the pair of inner plate
members and/or the pair of outer plate members can be adjusted
using adjustment means. This allows the support apparatus to be
used on different sized items, such as different sized construction
beams and/or the like.
[0019] In one embodiment a single adjustment means is provided. In
an alternative embodiment two or more adjustment means are
provided.
[0020] In one embodiment barrier means are integral with the
support means. In an alternative embodiment barrier means are
attachable to or detachably attachable to the support means.
[0021] Attachment means can be provided on or associated with the
support means and/or barrier means to allow attachment of the
barrier means to the support means in use.
[0022] The attachment means can include any or any combination of
one or more pins, inter-engaging members, nuts and bolts, screws,
clips, welding, adhesive, chains and/or the like.
[0023] The barrier means can include any or any combination of one
or more frame members, meshing, netting, fencing and/or the like.
The barrier means is/are typically in such a form so as to prevent
a person falling through the barrier means if they were to
accidentally fall on to it in use.
[0024] In one embodiment the support means includes at least one
sleeve, channel member, aperture, recess and/or the like into which
at least part of a barrier means is located in use.
[0025] Preferably an end of the barrier means is located in an
opening defined in the support means.
[0026] Preferably the movement means includes one or more rollers,
wheels, drums, ball bearings and/or the like which allows movement
of the support apparatus along or relative to a surface in use.
[0027] The stop means can be an integral part of the movement
means, can be provided on or associated with the movement means or
can be completely separate to and independent of the movement
means.
[0028] Preferably the stop means is movable between an actuated
position, wherein it substantially stops or prevents movement of
the movement means or support apparatus, to a non-actuated
position, wherein it allows movement of the movement means and thus
movement of the support apparatus.
[0029] The stop means can be any item or mechanism that prevents
movement of the movement means or support apparatus when
actuated.
[0030] The stop means can include any or any combination of one or
more teeth, braking member, locking member, cam member, cam wheel
and/or the like.
[0031] In one embodiment the stop means is in the form of or
includes a cam member and preferably in the form of a cam wheel.
Movement of the cam member or rotation of the cam wheel moves the
same, or at least part of a cam surface between a non-actuated
position and an actuated position.
[0032] Preferably rotation of the cam wheel in a first direction
allows relatively free movement of the cam wheel and thus allows
movement of the movement means and support apparatus.
[0033] Preferably rotation of the cam wheel in a second direction,
which is typically substantially opposite to the first direction,
moves the cam wheel into a position whereby further movement of the
cam wheel, and thus the movement means and support apparatus, is
substantially prevented.
[0034] Preferably when an off-centered weighted part of the cam
wheel or a cam surface engages a floor surface in use, this forms
the actuated position of the cam wheel or stop means, wherein
further rotation of the cam wheel or stop means in the second
direction is substantially prevented.
[0035] Preferably the cam wheel or cam member is arranged such that
movement of the support apparatus in the first direction, in a
rearwardly direction or in a direction away from the cam wheel or
cam member allows relatively free movement of the cam wheel or cam
member. Movement of the support apparatus in the second direction,
in a forwardly direction or in a direction towards the cam wheel or
cam member actuates the cam wheel or cam member and prevents or
stops further movement of the movement means or support
apparatus.
[0036] In one embodiment the stop means, cam wheel or cam member is
arranged so as to have a weighted portion or an off centered
weighted portion integrally formed with, provided on or associated
with the same. For example, an arm portion or weighted member can
be added to the stop means, cam wheel or cam member to bias the
stop means, cam wheel or cam member to an actuated or stop
position. It is not necessary for a free end of the weighted
portion to engage with a surface to create a .cndot.stop, it simply
needs to provide a biasing force to the stop means, cam wheel or
cam member to allow a portion of the stop means, cam wheel or cam
member to engage with a surface to create a stop position.
[0037] In one embodiment, movement of the stop means between a
non-actuated position to an actuated position, is as a result of a
user at least partially lifting, tilting, pivoting and/or jerking
the support apparatus in use, in addition to or as an alternative
to a moving the support apparatus in a first and/or second
direction.
[0038] Further preferably movement of the stop means between a
non-actuated position to an actuated position, is as a result of a
user at least partially lifting, tilting, pivoting and/or jerking
the support apparatus in a direction towards the stop means, cam
member or cam wheel in use.
[0039] In one embodiment movement of the stop means between an
actuated position and a non-actuated position is as a result of
user actuation of a user actuation means or mechanism. The user
actuation means or mechanism can include any suitable mechanical
linkage, brake cable, gearing, one or more levers, pneumatic means,
hydraulic means, magnetic means and/or the like.
[0040] In one example, the user actuation means is in the form of a
cable, such as a brake cable, having a first end attached to or
associated with the stop means and a second end attached to or
associated with a user actuatable lever, dial, button and/or the
like. Actuation and release of the lever or user actuation means by
a user, moves the cable, and therefore the stop means, between
non-actuated and actuated positions respectively.
[0041] In one example, user actuation means are provided on or
associated with a part of the barrier means. For example, a cable
lever, can be provided on the frame forming the barrier means.
[0042] Preferably the stop means, cam member or cam wheel is
provided at or adjacent a front of the support apparatus. However,
the stop means, cam member or cam wheel can be provided between a
front and rear portion of the support apparatus or at the rear of
the support apparatus as required.
[0043] More than one stop means, cam members or cam wheels can be
provided if required.
[0044] Preferably the stop means, cam member or cam wheel is
provided on or is associated with the body portion of the
apparatus.
[0045] Preferably the stop means, cam member or cam wheel is
provided on, is associated with or provided between the inner plate
members and/or outer plate members of the body portion.
[0046] Preferably movement means are provided at a location a
spaced distance apart from the stop means. For example, if the stop
means is provided at or adjacent a front of the support apparatus,
movement means can be provided in the middle of the support
apparatus, at the rear of the support apparatus and/or a spaced
distance behind the stop means.
[0047] Preferably movement means are provided on or are associated
with the body portion of the apparatus.
[0048] Further preferably movement means are provided on, are
associated with or provided between the inner plate members and/or
the outer plate members of the body portion. For example, in one
embodiment, a roller member is rotatably mounted between the inner
or outer plate members of the body portion.
[0049] In one embodiment first and at least second movement means
or sets of movement means are provided on or associated with the
support apparatus and/or body portion.
[0050] In one embodiment the first and at least second movement
means are arranged a spaced distance apart in a substantially
horizontal or parallel plane. For example, one movement means could
be provided substantially centrally of the body portion and one
movement means could be provided at a rear of the body portion. The
stop means could be provided, in one example, at a front of the
body portion.
[0051] In one embodiment first and at least second movement means
are arranged a spaced distance apart in a substantially vertical or
upright direction. Thus, in one example, first movement means are
provided at or adjacent an upper portion of the support apparatus
or body portion and at least second movement means are provided at
or adjacent a lower portion of the support apparatus or body
portion.
[0052] In one embodiment first and at least second movement means
are provided in a substantially horizontal plane and at least third
movement means can be provided in a substantially vertical or
upright direction. The first and at least second movement means
could be provided in a plane substantially transverse or
perpendicular to the plane in which the at least third movement
means are provided.
[0053] The provision of first and at least second movement means in
a vertically spaced apart orientation allows the first and at least
second movement means to contact different parts or sides of a
floor or beam surface in use. For example, if the surface on which
the support apparatus is to be used is an I-beam, the first
movement means can be moved along an upper surface of the I-beam
and the at least second movement means can be moved along a lower
surface of the I-beam, such as a lower surface of a flange of the
I-beam.
[0054] Preferably adjustment means are provided on or associated
with the first and/or at least second movement means to allow the
spacing between the first and/or at least second movement means to
be adjusted in use. This allows the support apparatus to be used on
different sized beams, floor surfaces and/or the like.
[0055] In one embodiment the adjustment means allows the first and
at least second movement means to be rotatably, slidably or
pivotably moved relative to each other.
[0056] Locking means can be provided to lock the adjustment means
in use to maintain the position of the first and/or at least second
movement means in a required position.
[0057] In one embodiment the adjustment means includes one or more
threaded screws or nut and bolt mechanisms with which the first
and/or at least second movement means, inner and/or outer plate
members are associated with or rotatably mounted thereon.
[0058] Preferably the at least second movement means are provided
on or are associated with the outer plate members of the body
portion. However, they could be provided on or associated with
inner plate members if required.
[0059] Preferably a second movement means is provided on or
associated with each outer plate member. For example, the second
movement means can be provided substantially opposite to each
other.
[0060] Preferably at least part of the body portion, the inner
plate members and/or the outer plate members are arranged for
location adjacent to, in abutting relationship with or in
engagement with one or more surfaces of the floor or item on which
the support apparatus is to be used in use. For example, if the
support apparatus is to be used on an I-beam, the outer plate
members can typically abut against or are located adjacent the end
surfaces of one or more flanges of the I-beam in use.
[0061] Preferably the inner and/or outer plate members or portions
are provided on at least two opposite sides of the body portion.
Preferably the inner and/or outer plate members or side portions
are provided a spaced distance apart.
[0062] Preferably adjustment means are provided to allow the
distance between the at least two opposite side portions or plate
members to be adjusted in use. This allows the support apparatus to
be used on different sized beams, any other structural steel
section, floor surfaces and/or the like.
[0063] In one embodiment guard or cover means are provided on or
associated with at least part of the support apparatus, the
movement means, the stop means, body portion and/or the like. This
prevents accidental movement or damage to one or more parts of the
support apparatus, the movement means, the stop means, the body
portion and/or the like when the guard means is in a guarding
position.
[0064] The guard means are preferably movably mounted to a part of
the support apparatus, the movement means, body portion and/or the
stop means to allow movement between a guarded position, wherein
access to at least part of the support apparatus, the movement
means, the body portion and/or the stop means is substantially
prevented, and a non-guarded position, wherein access to at least
part of the support apparatus, the movement means and/or the stop
means is allowed.
[0065] In one embodiment guide means are provided to guide movement
of the movement means, inner and/or outer plate members during
adjustment using adjustment means. The guide means can include one
or more arm members, guide shafts and/or the like.
[0066] According to a second aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of using support apparatus.
[0067] In one embodiment the barrier means include one or more
frame members that are telescopic in form or are arranged so as to
be extendable or retractable in length. Preferably the telescopic
frame members are substantially freely extendable or retractable in
length, thereby allowing the length of the same to be freely
altered simply by moving a support apparatus associated with the
barrier means and/or a part of the barrier means in use.
[0068] In one embodiment two or more frame members forming the
barrier means are hingedly or pivotably movable relative to each
other, thereby allowing the angle between the frame members to be
adjusted in use and/or the position of the frame members relative
to each other to be adjusted in use.
[0069] In one embodiment two or more support apparatus are provided
and are arranged a spaced distance apart and barrier means are
arranged so as to extend between two or more of said spaced apart
support apparatus.
[0070] Preferably the barrier means are arranged so as to provide a
substantially U-shaped frame between the two spaced apart support
apparatus. The U-shaped frame typically protrudes rearwardly of the
support apparatus, such that the base or rear of the U-shaped frame
is arranged closest to a worker in use or furthest from the support
apparatus.
[0071] In one embodiment the one or more surfaces or items on which
the support apparatus is used is an I-beam, H-beam, W-beam, RSJ,
flanged beam, universal beam, steel beam, double T beam, any
structural steel section of a building frame and/or the like.
[0072] Preferably first movement means allows movement of the
support apparatus along a top surface of the beam and the second
movement means allows movement of the support apparatus along an
underside or lower surface of the beam or a flange of the beam.
[0073] Preferably the stop means are associated with or actuated
against a top surface of the beam on which the apparatus is to be
used in use. However, the stop means could be associated with or
actuated against a lower surface of the beam on which the apparatus
is to be used in use.
[0074] Preferably the support apparatus is for use on a steel or
metal frame building, a construction frame or partial construction
frame, such as for example a frame for use in making a mezzanine
floor.
[0075] In one embodiment the support apparatus is for use on a
timber frame building, a construction frame or partial construction
frame. In this embodiment, one or more beams are provided that are
attachable to a part of the timber frame building, such as for
example, to the timber decking or frame used on a floor of the
timber frame building.
[0076] Preferably the one or more beams provided are aluminum beams
so as to be lightweight whilst providing the necessary structural
properties. If pre-defined beams are supplied with the support
apparatus, adjustment means may not be required on the support
apparatus since the pre-defined beams will be of pre-defined
dimensions.
[0077] Preferably attachment means are provided to allow attachment
of the one or more beams to an existing part of the timber frame
building. The attachment means can include any suitable attachment
means, such as one or more screws, nuts and bolts and/or the
like.
[0078] Further preferably the one or more beams provided are
!-beams but could be any type, shape or design of beam as
required.
[0079] Preferably beam guide means can be provided on or associated
with the one or more beams to allow one beam to be located in a
required orientation with respect to another beam. For example,
when laying the beams in an end to end arrangement, the beam guide
means ensure one beam is aligned correctly with another beam.
[0080] The beam guide means in one example are in the form of one
or more protruding arms that protrude outwardly from a front and/or
rear end of the beam. Preferably the one or more protruding arms
are provided on the web of the beam (i.e. between outer flanges of
the beam), so that the web of the next beam can be inserted
adjacent to or between the one or more protruding arms.
[0081] According to a third aspect of the present invention there
is provided a fall prevention system including support apparatus
for supporting barrier means.
[0082] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there
is provided a method of using a fall prevention system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0083] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described
with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein:
[0084] FIGS. 1a-1c show an end view, a side view and a plan view
from above of support apparatus according to an embodiment of the
present invention respectively;
[0085] FIGS. 2a and 2b show a side view of the support apparatus in
FIGS. 1a-1 c with the stop means in a non-actuated position and an
actuated position respectively;
[0086] FIG. 3 is a front view of the support apparatus with barrier
means attached in use in one example;
[0087] FIG. 4 is a plan view from above of the support apparatus
with barrier means attached in use in one example;
[0088] FIG. 5 is a side view of the support apparatus with barrier
means attached in use in one example;
[0089] FIG. 6 is a simplified perspective view of the support
apparatus in use in one example;
[0090] FIGS. 7a-7b show a side view and an end view of support
apparatus according to a further embodiment of the present
invention respectively;
[0091] FIG. 7 c shows a side view of the support apparatus in FIGS.
7a-7b used on wooden frame building;
[0092] FIGS. 8a-8b show side views of support apparatus according
to a yet further embodiment of the present invention with the stop
means in a non-actuated or moving position and an actuated or
non-moving/stop position respectively;
[0093] FIGS. 9a-9c show an end view, top plan view, and side view
of support apparatus according to a further embodiment of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0094] Referring to FIGS. 1-6, there is illustrated support
apparatus 2 forming part of a fall prevention system according to
an embodiment of the present invention. The support apparatus in
the illustrated example is typically used on a steel frame building
structure, although it could be used on any building structure as
required.
[0095] The support apparatus 2 includes a body portion 4 comprising
two substantially parallel inner plate members 6, 8 located a
spaced distance apart. A bridging member 10 is provided between the
inner plate members 6, 8 to provide the body portion with strength
and rigidity. In addition, bridging member 10 acts to prevent cam
wheel 46 from rotating past a position where it functions as a stop
means, as will be described in more detail below. Support means in
the form of a hollow sleeve member 12 is also located between and
joined to inner plate members 6, 8 of body portion 4.
[0096] Hollow sleeve member 12 is substantially elongate in form
and has an opening 14 defined between a top edge 16 for the
location of barrier means therein in use. Hollow sleeve member 12
protrudes upwardly from a top surface of body portion 4.
[0097] Body portion 4 also comprises two substantially parallel
outer plate members 18, 20 or I-beam flange guide plates. The outer
plate members 18, 20 typically have a greater height or width
compared to the inner plate members 6, 8 as will be described in
more detail below. The outer plate members 18, 20 are joined to the
inner plate members 6, 8 via elongate adjuster screws 22, 24.
[0098] The outer plate members 18, 20 are substantially parallel to
the inner plate members 6, 8 and are arranged a spaced distance
therefrom.
[0099] First movement means in the form of a roller 26 is rotatably
mounted on adjuster screw 24 located between inner plates 6, 8 and
adjacent a rear end 28 of the support apparatus 2. The roller 26
typically engages with an upper surface of an I-beam in use for
enabling movement of the apparatus along said upper surface.
[0100] Second movement means in the form of a pair of rollers or
flange rollers 30, 32 are provided and are joined to outer plate
members 18, 20 via flange guide pins 34. Rollers 30, 32 face
inwardly of the apparatus towards each other. They are provided a
spaced distance apart from roller 26 in a vertical direction below
the same. Rollers 18, 20 typically engage with a lower surface of a
flange of an I-beam in use for enabling movement of the apparatus
along said lower surface.
[0101] The vertical spacing of the flange rollers 30, 32 with
respect to upper roller 26 can be adjusted using flange roller
adjustment screws 36. Rotation of the nut portion 38 of adjustment
screws 36 allows the flange rollers 30, 32 to be moved along the
length of the threaded screw portion 40 between raised and lowered
positions in a substantially vertical direction. This allows the
support apparatus 2 to be used with different sized beams, any
structural steel section or floor surfaces in use (i.e. it allows
the apparatus to be used on apparatus with beam flanges of
different thicknesses).
[0102] The spacing between outer plate members 18, 20 can be
adjusted using adjustment means including handle means 42 which
allow rotation of adjuster screws 22, 24 relative to locking nuts
44.
[0103] This adjustment mechanism also allows the support apparatus
2 to be used on different sized beams or floor surfaces in use
(i.e. it allows the apparatus to be used on apparatus with beam
flanges of different widths).
[0104] Upper roller 26 and lower flange rollers 30, 32 allow the
support apparatus 2 to engage with and be moved relative to an
I-beam in use in one example.
[0105] In accordance with the present invention, stop means are
provided on the support apparatus 2 in the form of a cam wheel 46
provided adjacent front end 48 of the apparatus.
[0106] The off-centered weighted portion of the cam wheel is
arranged such that movement or rotation of cam wheel 46 in a first
clockwise direction, as shown by arrow 50 in FIG. 2a, allows the
apparatus to move in a forwardly direction (i.e. towards front end
48) or in a rearwardly direction (i.e. towards rear end 28), as
shown by arrow 52. In order to do this, the rear end 28 of support
apparatus 2 is typically lifted slightly upwardly, as shown by
arrow 54, to allow rotation of cam wheel 46 in the clockwise
direction.
[0107] Movement or rotation of cam wheel 46 in a second an
anti-clockwise direction, as shown by arrow 56 in FIG. 2b, actuates
the cam wheel such that it stops further movement of the cam wheel
46 and locks or prevents the support apparatus 2 from moving in a
forwardly direction. This actuation is caused by the off-centered
weighted part of the cam wheel engaging with the floor surface on
which the apparatus is being used, thereby preventing further
rotation of the cam wheel in said direction. In order to move the
cam wheel 46 in an anti-clockwise direction, the rear end 28 of
support apparatus 2 is typically lowered, as shown by arrow 58.
[0108] Thus, a user can move the support apparatus relative to a
surface by moving the cam wheel in a clockwise direction. A user
can prevent movement of the support apparatus, at least in a
forwardly direction, by moving the cam wheel in an anti-clockwise
direction.
[0109] In one embodiment, the support apparatus is used as part of
a fall prevention system, as shown in FIGS. 3-6, on a steel
building frame including a plurality of RSJ s, structural steel
sections or I-beams 100. Each I-beam 100 typically includes a top
flange 102, a bottom flange 104 with an intermediate support post
or web 106 joining the top flange to the bottom flange 104. Both
the top and bottom flanges 102, 104 protrude outwardly from either
side of support post 106.
[0110] A construction worker 108 that is fitting a floor surface
between adjacent !-beams 100 typically locates a corrugated metal
sheet 110 between the adjacent !-beams and then moves forward on
the metal sheet 110 to fit the next metal sheet. It can be seen
from FIG. 5 that as the construction worker fits the next most
forwardly metal sheet 110, they are working adjacent an exposed
edge 112. This is dangerous and, if the worker were to fall, could
result in injury or death of the worker.
[0111] The fall prevention system of the present invention provides
a safety barrier 114 that prevents the worker 108 from getting too
close to the exposed edge 112 whilst allowing the safety barrier to
be moved relatively easily as the worker progresses with fitting
the floor sheet or sheets.
[0112] In the illustrated embodiment, the safety barrier 114
includes an upright frame member 116, an end of which is located
through opening 14 of sleeve member support 12. Two rearwardly
protruding side frame members 118 are attached to each upright
frame member 116 and are arranged a spaced distance apart along a
substantially vertical axis. The rearwardly protruding side frame
members 118 are typically substantially horizontally arranged. Two
rear frame members 120 are provided between the two rearwardly
protruding side frame members 118. The rear frame members 120 are
also typically substantially horizontally arranged and are provided
a spaced distance apart along a substantially vertical axis. Two
rear upright frame members 121 are provided between the upper and
lower rear frame members 120 and the upper and lower side frame
members 118 to provide strength and rigidity to the safety barrier
114.
[0113] The worker 108 typically works adjacent the rear frame
members 120 in use and is therefore a spaced distance apart from
the exposed edge and the upright frame members 116.
[0114] The rear frame members 120 are preferably telescopic in
form, as shown by arrows 122 in FIG. 3, such that the length of the
frame members can be freely extendable or retractable in a
direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the
frame members 120. In particular, each rear frame member 120
comprises a first outer frame member 120a that has at least a
hollow end section that has slightly larger dimensions compared to
a second inner frame member 120b which is slidably located in the
hollow end section of frame member 120a. This allows a first
support apparatus to be moved independently and separately to a
second or further support apparatus, as shown in FIG. 4 without
compromising the rigidity of the safety barrier 114.
[0115] In use, and with reference to FIG. 4, a worker 108 stands
behind rear frame members 120 and grips a part of the safety
barrier frame so as to allow them to jerk or move first support
apparatus 2 in such a manner that cam member 46 is moved from an
actuated or locked position to a non-actuated or movable position.
This allows first support apparatus 2 to be rolled forwards (or
backwards if required) on the I-beam to an advanced forwardly
position, relative to adjacent support apparatus 2'. The rear frame
members 120 extend in length due to the different positions of the
support apparatus 2, 2'. The user can then move to the part of the
safety barrier frame adjacent support apparatus 2' and jerk or move
said support apparatus 2' in such a manner so that cam member 46 is
moved from an actuated or locked position to a non-actuated or
movable position. This allows second support apparatus 2' to be
moved or rolled forwards (or backwards if required) on the I-beam
or other structural steel section to an advanced forwardly
position. The support apparatus 2, 2' are now substantially
opposite to each other and the frame members 118, 120, 116 are all
substantially perpendicular to each other.
[0116] It will be appreciated that the frame members could include
mesh or netting to prevent a worker from falling between the frame
members if required.
[0117] Each or one or more frame members of the safety barrier can
be pivotably or hingedly movable relative to each or one or more
other frame members so as to allow movement of the frame members
relative to each other during movement of the support apparatus
and/or barrier means.
[0118] The support apparatus can be provided any suitable distance
apart on the building frame. In one example, the support apparatus
are provided approximately 6-10 foot apart.
[0119] The components of the support apparatus and barrier means
can be made from any or any combination of the same material or
different material. For example, the support apparatus and/or
barrier means can be made from metal, wood, rubber, plastic and/or
the like.
[0120] A similar arrangement is shown in FIGS. 9a-9c but in this
embodiment, support apparatus 402 has a single adjustment screw 404
provided between inner and outer plates 6, 8, 18, 20 and, in this
illustration, is located substantially centrally of the body
apparatus 402. The provision of a central adjustment screw provides
for more uniform adjustment of the inner and outer plate members at
the front and rear 48, 28 of the apparatus. Guide means in the form
of guide shafts 408, 410 are provided adjacent to the front 48 and
rear 28 of the apparatus to guide movement of the inner and outer
plate members during adjustment. The guide shafts are typically
non-rotatable shafts relative to which the plate members can
move.
[0121] A further difference in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 9a-9c
is that in addition to first roller 26 provided at rear end 28, a
second roller 406 substantially centrally of the apparatus below
sleeve member 12 and between inner plate members 6, 8. The
provision of two rollers 26, 406 in the same substantially
horizontal plane generates greater stability of the apparatus
during movement of the same. In addition, a cover 412 is provided
at the front and rear of the apparatus to cover the interior of the
apparatus in use. Both covers 412 can be independently pivotable or
hingedly movable to allow access to the interior of the support
apparatus.
[0122] Referring to .FIGS. 7a-7 c, there is illustrated a further
embodiment of the present invention. In this illustration, support
apparatus 202 is for use on a timber frame building. The same
reference numerals have been used in the previously described
embodiment to describe the same features.
[0123] In this embodiment, a plurality of pre-defined aluminum
I-beams 100 are supplied with the support apparatus for attachment
to the timber decking of the floor being fitted to the timber frame
building. Since the I-beams are of pre-defined dimensions, there is
no requirement for an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the
horizontal distance between the outer plates 18, 20.
[0124] There is no requirement for inner plate members 6, 8 as in
the previously described embodiments. A bridging member 10 is
provided between the outer plates 18, 20 and the sleeve member
12.
[0125] First movement means are provided in the form of front and
rear rollers 26 which are located at the front and rear of the
support apparatus 202 respectively. An axle 204 about which the
rollers rotate is provided between the outer plates 18, 20. Second
movement means in the form of a pair of flange rollers 30, 32 are
joined to outer plates 18, 20 are previous described. No adjustment
means are provided in this example for the flange rollers to adjust
the vertical distance between the rollers since the dimensions of
the I-beam are known.
[0126] In this illustration cam wheel 46 is located between front
and rear rollers 26, but it could be provided at the front and/or
rear of the support apparatus as required. In addition, two or more
upper rollers could be provided if required or just a single upper
roller could be provided as required.
[0127] A weight 206 is attached to the off-centered cam wheel 46 to
provide a biasing force of the cam wheel 46 to an engaged or
actuated position. This helps moves the cam wheel 46 to the engaged
position in use.
[0128] A fixed cover member 208 is provided at the rear of the
support apparatus 202 to substantially cover the rear roller 26. A
pivotable cover member 208 is provided at the front of the support
apparatus 202 to allow pivotal opening and closing of the same
about pivot axis 210. Any combination of cover means, fixed cover
means, pivotable cover means and/or other types of removable cover
means can be provided as required.
[0129] In use, a fitter fits two pre-defined I-beams 100 to a
timber decking surface in a spaced apart orientation, with flange
104 in abutment with the timber decking surface 212 and flange 102
uppermost, a spaced distance above timber decking surface.
Attachment means, such as for example, self drilling screws can be
used to do this.
[0130] The support apparatus 202 is located on the I-beam 100 as
previously described and used in a similar manner to the support
apparatus 2 previously described. Guide means in the form of a pair
of spaced apart outwardly protruding arms 214 are provided on the
web 106 to protrude outwardly and substantially parallel to the web
106. These act as a guide for a fitter to locate the web 106 of an
adjacent I-beam to be fitted in an end to end manner with the
already fitted I-beam.
[0131] Referring to FIGS. 8a-8b, there is illustrated a further
embodiment of support apparatus 302, wherein user actuation means
are provided to move the cam wheel 46 between a non-actuated
position, as shown in FIG. 5a, and an actuated or stop position, as
shown in FIG. 5b. The user actuation means in this illustration are
in the form of a cable 304 joined at a point 306 to the cam wheel
46 and a user actuated lever (not shown) provided on a part of the
frame easily accessible to a user. When the lever is actuated by a
user, the cam surface of the cam wheel is moved to an upper
position a spaced distance apart from the upper surface of I-beam
flange 102 (by rotation clockwise of the cam wheel in this
example), thereby allowing movement of the support apparatus along
the I-beam in any required direction. When the lever is released,
the cam surface of the cam wheel falls to a lower position under
gravity as a result of the off-centered weight or weighted bias of
the cam wheel (by rotation anti-clockwise of the cam wheel in this
example), thereby preventing movement of the support apparatus
along the I-beam in at least a forwards direction.
[0132] It will be appreciated that any or any combination of the
abovementioned features can be used in any of the illustrated or
non-illustrated embodiments as required.
* * * * *