NZ727329B2 - Modular gantry structure - Google Patents

Abstract

Sheltered walkways or gantries are sometimes constructed for pedestrians at or near construction sites. Known gantries are constructed from individual components such as timber, steel or concrete beams, walls and panels and often include bracing along one or more sides, and sometimes also a floor structure, to provide strength to the structure. In some situations, however, it may be desirable to leave the ground uncovered or to leave the walls of the structure open for access or aesthetic reasons. The present invention provides a structure for extending over a walkway or footpath. The structure includes a roof section, a plurality of legs extending substantially away from the roof section and a bracing structure connected between the roof section and a part of one or more of the legs proximal to the roof section. The bracing structure strengthens the structure so that a floor or other brace is not required between parts of the legs distal from the roof section. The roof section provides a continuous cover over the walkway or footpath and includes a substantially flat upper surface. In one form, the roof section can include a counterweight and may also include a plurality of corner castings and/or twist lock fittings positioned to conform to one or more standards for intermodal freight containers. tructure, to provide strength to the structure. In some situations, however, it may be desirable to leave the ground uncovered or to leave the walls of the structure open for access or aesthetic reasons. The present invention provides a structure for extending over a walkway or footpath. The structure includes a roof section, a plurality of legs extending substantially away from the roof section and a bracing structure connected between the roof section and a part of one or more of the legs proximal to the roof section. The bracing structure strengthens the structure so that a floor or other brace is not required between parts of the legs distal from the roof section. The roof section provides a continuous cover over the walkway or footpath and includes a substantially flat upper surface. In one form, the roof section can include a counterweight and may also include a plurality of corner castings and/or twist lock fittings positioned to conform to one or more standards for intermodal freight containers.

Description

MODULAR GANTRY STRUCTURE TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention generally relates to structures for extending over a path or road, typically, but not necessarily, used as at least part of a sheltered walkway, for example by pedestrians at or near construction or building sites.

BACKGROUND

[0002] It is known to construct types of fixed structures, sometimes referred to as gantries, to provide sheltered walkways for pedestrians at or near construction sites. Known gantries are constructed from individual components such as timber, steel or concrete beams, walls and panels.

[0003] Presently, a significant amount of time is required in constructing gantries on- site from individual components. Timber, steel and concrete gantries are constructed as customised structures and typically involve relatively high costs due to the customisation and time required. Furthermore, after a building or construction is completed, presently known gantries are time consuming and therefore relatively costly to remove.

[0004] Known gantries often include bracing along one or more sides, and sometimes also a floor structure, to provide strength to the structure. In some situations, however, it may be desirable to leave the ground uncovered or to leave the walls of the structure open for access or aesthetic reasons.

[0005] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or admission or any form of suggestion that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

SUMMARY

[0006] According to one example aspect, there is provided a structure for extending over a walkway or footpath, including: a roof section; a plurality of legs extending substantially away from the roof section; and a bracing structure connected between the roof section and a part of one or more of the legs proximal to the roof section, wherein the bracing structure strengthens the structure so that a floor or other brace is not required between parts of the legs distal from the roof section.

[0007] In other particular, but non-limiting, example forms: the roof section provides a continuous cover over the walkway or footpath; the roof section includes a substantially flat upper surface; and/or the roof section and/or bracing structure includes a counterweight.

[0008] In accordance with another optional embodiment, the roof section and/or bracing structure is configured to accept a quantity of liquid, concrete or granular counterweight.

[0009] In yet other optional embodiments, the roof section and/or bracing structure is configured to accept a removable counterweight item, such as but not limited to a rectangular steel or concrete sheet. In one form, the removable counterweight item together with the roof section forms a continuous cover over the walkway or footpath. In another form, the removable counterweight item forms a substantially flat upper surface of the roof section when fitted to the structure.

[0010] In other particular, but non-limiting, example forms, the roof section includes one or more twist lock fittings, which may be positioned in a grid-like formation. The roof section may also include one or more corner castings, which may be positioned to conform to one or more standards for intermodal freight containers.

[0011] In accordance with other optional embodiments, provided by way of example only, the length of the legs are independently adjustable; the roof section includes a hole configured to accept a fork of a forklift or other similar lifting device; the legs can be detached from the roof section; the legs are hingedly attached to the roof section; and/or the bracing structure is a trapezoidal sectioned beam extending between two of the leg.

[0012] According to another example aspect, there is provided a method of installing a structure, the structure being substantially as herein defined, wherein the method includes the steps of positioning the structure at a desired location and subsequently adding the counterweight or the removable counterweight item to the roof section and/or bracing structure.

[0013] In one example form, the structure has legs that can be detached from the roof section, wherein the method further includes the steps of, prior to positioning the structure at a desired location, transporting the structure to the location with the legs detached from the roof section and then attaching the legs to the roof section.

[0014] In another example form, the structure has legs that are hingedly attached to the roof section, wherein the method further includes the steps of, prior to positioning the structure at a desired location, transporting the structure to the location with the legs in a folded position and then moving the legs to an extended position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0015] Example embodiments should become apparent from the following description, which is given by way of example only, of at least one preferred but non-limiting embodiment, described in connection with the accompanying figures, wherein:

[0016] Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an example structure according to the invention;

[0017] Figure 2 illustrates an exploded isometric view of the structure from Figure 1;

[0018] Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the structure from Figure 1;

[0019] Figure 4 illustrates a front view of the structure from Figure 1; and

[0020] Figure 5 illustrates an end view of the structure from Figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following modes, given by way of example only, are described in order to provide a more precise understanding of the subject matter of a preferred embodiment or embodiments.

[0022] In the Figures, incorporated to illustrate features of an example embodiment, like reference numerals are used to identify like parts throughout the Figures.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1, one embodiment of a structure 10 according to the present invention is shown. The structure includes a roof section 12 and legs 14. A bracing structure 16 extends between the roof section 12 and an upper part of the legs 14.

[0024] The bracing structure 16 is in the form of a beam with triangular cross section that connects to the legs 14 and the roof section 12, and extends between the legs 14 along the long side of the structure 10. The bracing structure 16 provides strength to the legs 14 so that there is no need for any floor or other brace towards the bottom of the legs 14.

[0025] An upper surface 18 of the roof section 12 is made from panels of deck plate, providing a substantially flat surface apart from a non-slip texture. This allows the option of utilising the upper surface 18, such as for an elevated walkway.

[0026] Below the upper surface 18, the roof section 12 is filled with concrete. This concrete is a permanent component and provides a counterweight to aid the stability of the structure 10. It will be appreciated, however, that materials other than concrete could be used for filling the roof section 12 for the purpose of counterweighting.

[0027] Twist lock fittings 20 are located at either end and at the sides of the roof section 12. The twist lock fittings 20 are arranged in a grid-like manner so that the structure can integrate with containerised building systems. Alternative embodiments of the invention may arrange the twist lock fittings 20 in different ways to suit various different situations.

[0028] The roof section 12 also includes corner castings 22 at each upper corner of the structure 10. The corner castings 22 are dimensioned and positioned to conform to various standards associated with intermodal freight containers, or shipping containers, such as ISO 668, for example. This also allows the structure 10 to integrate with containerised systems, such as being lifted and moved by equipment typically used for shipping containers, stacked in a similar manner to shipping containers and coupled with container based equipment when in use.

[0029] The structure 10 can be made to be standard sizes, for example 20 ft. and 40 ft. in length, corresponding to a base size of a typical shipping container. However, non- standard length sizes, for example 1 m, 2 m, 3 m, etc., or any other lengths, can be made.

[0030] The lower end of each leg 14 includes a baseplate 30 for engaging the ground.

In alternative embodiments, the lower end of each leg 14 may be configured for engaging other container based equipment. The baseplate 30 is connected to an extension member 32 of the leg 14 using a pin 33 which is locked in place using a clip 34. This connection allows the baseplate 30 to tilt to at least partially accommodate an uneven ground surface.

[0031] The extension member 32 is inserted into the end of the leg 14 and locked in place using a pin 36. The extension member 32 is provided with multiple holes to allow the legs 14 to be extended in length. This may be useful for changing the height of the structure and may also be useful for accommodating uneven ground surfaces.

[0032] In the embodiment shown in the Figures, the adjustable legs 14 allow the distance between the baseplate 30 and the bottom of the bracing structure 16 to be varied between a minimum of 2047 mm and a maximum of 3162 mm. This equates to a distance between the baseplate 30 and the top of the roof section 12 being varied between a minimum of 2668 mm and a maximum of 3783 mm. The depth of the roof section 12 in this embodiment is approximately 220 mm.

[0033] It will be appreciated that these dimensions are for this example embodiment only, and many other shapes and sizes will be possible and are considered to fall within the scope of the invention.

[0034] In alternative embodiments, the roof section 12 may include multiple panels or a single panel. The bracing structure 16 may also include a counterweight, in addition or in place of the counterweight in the roof section 12 as described previously. For example, concrete may be used to fill the bracing structure 16. Other alternative embodiments of the invention may use any other suitable mass for the counterweight, such as steel or other metals.

[0035] In some embodiments of the invention, the counterweight may be installed once the structure 10 is positioned on site. For example, the deck plate 18 may be removable and the bracing structure 16 and/or parts of the roof section 12 hollow, such that the structure 10 can be transported to a site, positioned in a desired location and then concrete poured into the bracing structure 16 and/or parts of the roof section 12.

[0036] In other embodiments, different types of counterweight may be used, particularly substances that can be removed again. For example, the bracing structure 16 and/or roof section 12 may be designed to hold water or a granular material such as gravel.

This allows the bracing structure 16 to be filled once positioned and then emptied again at a later time to allow easy transportation of the structure 10 to a new location. This allows the structure 10 to be reused many times at different locations, while having minimal weight during transport.

[0037] Yet other embodiments of the invention may provide a space for one or more counterweight items to be installed in the bracing structure 16 and/or roof section 12. For example, rectangular concrete or steel sheets may be placed into the roof section 12 of the structure 10 which can then be removed and transported separately to the structure 10.

[0038] The bracing structure 16 may take many forms other than the trapezoidal sectioned beam as shown in the figures. For example, the bracing structure 16 may be beams with different shaped sections, such as triangular, different quadrilateral shapes and other more complicated shapes. Yet other examples may have brace members extending only between a single leg 14 and the roof section 12, rather than between multiple legs 14 as is the case in the embodiment shown in the figures.

[0039] The roof section 12 acts as a counterweight and the bracing structure 16 acts as a structural section, or in other embodiments, the bracing structure 16 may act as both a structural section and counterweight. In either case, this facilitates full height and open spans on the long sides of the structure 10. Further, “eye level” slab style counterweighting which also acts as a pedestrian barrier may not be required. This may permit a barrier with more “streetscape” amenity.

[0040] Slots 40 are provided to allow lifting by a forklift or other lifting machine so that the structure 10 can be easily moved and placed into a desired position, even when permanent counterweighting is used.

[0041] The structure 10 is portable, inherently strong and conforms to established sizes.

The structure 10 is commonly used as part of a sheltered walkway for pedestrians at or near construction or building sites.

[0042] Tie-down lugs 42 are provided where the legs 14 meeting the bracing structure 16. The tie-down lugs permit the structure 10 to be anchored to stand alone counterweights at ground level, or secured to some other structure or support, such as being tied directly to the ground if a suitable anchor point is available.

[0043] Lifting lugs 44 are also provided towards the bottom of the legs 14. The lifting lugs 44 allow simple coupling of rigging to the structure 10 for use when moving the structure into position10. The location of the lifting lugs 44 allows coupling and uncoupling to be performed by workers at ground level.

[0044] In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the legs 14 can be detached from the roof section 12. This may be advantageous when transporting the structure 10, for example. In such an embodiment, the bracing structure 16 could include connectors that are positioned at each corner of the structure 10. The legs 14 could fit inside the connectors and be locked in place with pins that are inserted into holes in the connectors that align with holes in the legs 14.

[0045] In another alternative embodiment of the invention, the legs 14 may be hingedly attached to the roof section 12. This would allow the legs 14 to be moved into a folded position close to the roof section 12, providing a much more compact item during transportation. Once the structure 10 is at the location where it is to be erected, the legs could then be moved to an extended position. In such an embodiment, the hinge connection between the roof section 12 and the legs 14 may also include a locking and/or supporting strut, or other suitable device, to prevent the legs 14 from inadvertently folding when the structure 10 is in use.

[0046] The structure 10 allows flexible arrangements of gantries to be provided. Due to the modular nature of the structure 10, they are relatively easily transported to a desired site, where, if necessary, counterweights can be attached for additional stability.

[0047] Counterweights can be transported separately then attached to the structure on- site. Counterweights can be pre-fabricated concrete slabs or blocks that can be positioned in cut-out or open panel sections. Different sizes and layouts of counterweights can be used depending on expected conditions at a site, for example dependent on expected winds that the structures may be required to withstand.

[0048] The structures are designed to allow stacking of units on top of each other, or to allow stacking of container based buildings on top of the structures. When using a double- stacking arrangement, a modular set of stairs can be attached to slots (i.e. forklift pockets) of an office cabin container on top, together with a landing and a walkway.

[0049] The structures can be supported on different types of ground. Structures can be placed directly on a ground surface, if appropriate, or can be used with a footing or foundation system if required. Footing support is dependent on the nature of the ground, for example whether structures are being placed on concrete slabs, kerbing or soil. Timber planks might be used as a support system to distribute loads.

[0050] The structures are fully reusable after having been transported and installed at various sites. Structures can be installed in numerous different arrangements and locked or bolted, or otherwise secured, into position. After completion of a building construction at a site, when gantries are no longer required, all components can be disassembled, packed-up and easily transported off the site.

[0051] A modular structure as described offers a cost-effective solution in providing a safe pedestrian walking passage near hazardous areas. The structure can be made to conform to shipping container standards, making the structure easy to manage, suitable to manoeuvre and transport, and relatively easily constructed. Materials used in such a structure are commonly available.

[0052] A modular structure is an easily transportable structure suitable for rapid deployment in areas where protection from hazardous surroundings is required, for example for pedestrians passing a construction or building zone with potential falling object hazards.

A modular structure may be fitted out as required and can be delivered ready for operation or final assembly with counterweights on-site. The modular layout can accommodate a wide variety of needs and different assembled geometries.

[0053] Optional embodiments of the present invention may also be said to broadly consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated herein, individually or collectively, in any or all combinations of two or more of the parts, elements or features, and wherein specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0054] In the foregoing description of preferred embodiments, specific terminology has been resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "front" and "rear", "inner" and "outer", "above" and "below" and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[0055] Whilst the present invention has been described with reference to particular embodiments, it will be understood that many modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art. All such variations and modifications should be considered to fall within the scope of the invention as broadly described and as claimed below.