Lift unit for ascending and descending a scaffold

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of scaffolding.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] The prior art includes lifting systems intended for use in connection with scaffoldings, see for example US 4,809,914 A. Various problems are associated with existing lifting systems. For example, the lift may be insufficiently stable or unstable in the scaffolding. Installing a lift in the scaffolding may also require significant modification of the scaffolding material to use a specific lift, which may affect various aspects of the scaffolding itself: examples include weight, strength, load capacity, transportability, handling and scaffolding erection speed. The lift can also be adapted essentially for use in conjunction with one particular type of scaffolding, therefore the lift cannot be used for other types of scaffolding.

[0003] Hoists may also have a relatively low load capacity. The safety aspect is also very important when using the scaffolding lift.

[0004] It is known that the erection and dismantling of the scaffolding is very labor intensive. This means that relatively much time is spent erecting especially larger scaffoldings. The physical effort of people erecting scaffolding is also significant, which is why many people can perform this task only for a limited part of their lives. There is a need for alternative lifting systems that solve at least some of the problems mentioned above.

Summary of the Invention [0005] For the purpose of the present invention, the following terminology has been used:

- the terms "vertical" and "horizontal" are used in this description. These terms should be interpreted as follows: the direction running essentially parallel to the direction of gravity is the vertical direction, while the direction perpendicular to this direction is the horizontal direction.

- 'attachment at a certain height' of the first and second parts refers to the height at which the relevant part, and in particular the corresponding attachment means is attached to or connected to the scaffolding. In typical embodiments, this may correspond to the height of the longitudinal level of the scaffolding.

[0006] In a first aspect of the present invention, a lifting module for raising and lowering in a scaffold is described, wherein the scaffold comprises at least one scaffolding section, and each scaffolding section is formed by scaffolding racks and longitudinal members that position the racks relative to each other, comprising:

- a first part adapted to be able to be fixed at different heights to the scaffolding by means of a first set of attachment means;

- a second part adapted to be able to be fixed at different heights to the scaffolding by means of a second set of attachment means;

- distance control means adapted to introduce variation in distance between the first set of attachment means and the second set of attachment means.

52 593 391 81 [0007] In preferred embodiments, the second part is preferably never attached at a lower height than the first part when using the lifting module.

[0008] The scaffold preferably comprises at least one scaffold section. The scaffolding section can be formed as comprising two sets of four longitudinally, which form identical rectangles lying essentially in horizontal planes and which are connected to each other by means (e.g. four) of stands at their respective corners.

[0009] The lifting module can be adapted to be able to increase and decrease the distance between the first part and the second part. The distance control means are therefore preferably able to push the second part and the first part away from each other in a driven manner. As soon as the first part is attached, increasing the distance pushes the second part up, while reducing the distance lowers the second part relative to the first part. As soon as the second part is attached, then reducing the distance between the second part and the first part corresponds to pulling the first part up. Increasing the distance between the first part and the second part causes in this case the lowering of the first part under the second part.

[0010] Fastening may for example take place at or on the side members and / or scaffold stands.

[0011] In preferred embodiments, the lifting module is adapted to perform a lifting movement in the scaffolding by performing one or more times the following sequence of steps:

- pushing the second set of attachment means up relative to the attached first set of attachment means;

- securing the second set of attachment means above the first set of attachment means;

- pulling the first set of attachment means relative to the attached second set of attachment means up towards the attached second set of attachment means; and

- the attachment of the first set of attachment means.

[0012] Before the attached first or second set of attachment means can be moved again, it may be necessary to first release or detach the attachment means of this assembly from the scaffolding (e.g. from a stringer or stand).

[0013] In preferred embodiments, the lifting module is further adapted, during the lifting movement, to attach the first set of attachment means each time at a previous height of the second set of attachment means, In preferred embodiments, the lifting module is further adapted during lifting movement, for causing the first set of attachment means to be temporarily raised above the second set of attachment means prior to attaching the first set of attachment means.

[0015] In preferred embodiments, the first part comprises a first set of attachment means that can be jointly attached at specific heights in the scaffold, and the second part

52 593 391 Bl, the part includes a second set of fastening means that can be fastened together at specific heights in the scaffolding.

[0016] Different heights may, for example, correspond to the longitudinal levels of the rack or the heights of the so-called rosette levels of the Layher ™ scaffold.

[0017] Different heights may, for example, also correspond to the levels of the holes made in the racks, as described, for example, in document WO 2010/045693 in favor of the applicant. All embodiments of the present invention can be carried out on the scaffolding material described in this application or used in the context of such scaffolding material.

[0018] The attachment means of the first and / or second set of attachment means may take different forms. They may, for example, include hook-type connecting structures. For example, connecting structures can be attached to the side members.

[0019] The fastening means of the same set are preferably arranged or can be temporarily spaced near the stands of the scaffolding section / scaffolding column. In preferred embodiments, four fastening means are present associated with four respective racks, wherein the fastening means can be combined with two longitudinal members connected in each case to respective racks.

[0020] The first set and / or second set of attachment means may be adapted to be attached to at least two longitudinally at the same level of the same scaffolding section. The first set and / or second set of attachment means may be adapted to be attached to four longitudinally at the same level in the same scaffolding section.

[0021] Each of the attachment means of the first set and / or the second set of attachment means is adapted to be attached to two of the four longitudinally at the same level of the scaffolding section, the two longitudinal members adjacent.

[0022] Each of the attachment means of the first set and / or the second set of attachment means may be adapted to be attached to at least two longitudinally at the same level of the same scaffolding section.

[0023] According to preferred embodiments of the present invention, the distance control means comprise one or more retractable and retractable cylinders. These cylinders may for example be of the hydraulic, pneumatic or electric type.

[0024] In alternative embodiments, the distance control means may include a scissor lift.

[0025] In other further embodiments, the distance control means may include one or more racks of chain, strand or belt systems on which the second set of fastening means is arranged. For example, the second set of attachment means may comprise four catches that are connected to four corresponding driven / coiled chains or ropes forming part of the spacing means. The other outer end of the respective chains or cables may, for example, be connected to a driven winding mechanism that can complement the spacing means. The winding mechanism is preferably located under the working floor of the rising elevator. The four chains can be directed upwards from under this work floor and along the side of the work floor or elevator. Maybe this

ΕΡ 2 593 391 Bl is carried out by means of at least one guide wheel for each of the chains or cables, These guide wheels are preferably located on the outer side of the rising elevator. It should be noted that the length of such lines or chains usually does not need to be longer than necessary to enable them to reach the above level longitudinally. In certain embodiments, however, these chains can be much longer and long enough to exceed a predetermined scaffold height. In such cases, the elevating hoist, after raising it to a higher scaffolding level (e.g. in the erection phase), may function as a hoist basket or hoist system according to any of the embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention in which the chains or cables serve as hoisting means. [0026] In other further embodiments, the distance control means includes one or more threaded pins.

[0027] In preferred embodiments, the spacing means described above include, respectively, four cylinders, endless chain or chain systems, or threaded rods that are substantially vertical, one near each corner of the scaffolding section / scaffolding column. At the bottom, cylinders, endless belt or chain systems or threaded rods can be pivotally mounted around a pivot point or axis of rotation on the first part, so that it is possible to pivot around the pivot point / axis of rotation towards the inside of the scaffolding section. At the top, cylinders, endless chain or chain systems, or threaded rods may include securing means for a second set of securing means.

[0028] In preferred embodiments, the attachment means of the first and second sets of attachment means are adapted to be placed in a position that allows obstacles to be avoided when changing the distance between the first set and the second set of attachment means. The positions of the securing means of the first and / or second set of securing means may advantageously change in this way during raising or lowering, i.e. when changing the distance between them.

[0029] These obstacles may comprise stringers or consist of longitudinally. These stringers can be part of the scaffolding level above / below. These obstacles may also include pins or rosettes, for example of the Layher ™ type.

[0030] These obstacles may also include longitudinally connecting structures arranged on the scaffold stands. These obstacles to the securing means of the first or second part may also be suitable securing means of the second or first part.

[0031] According to preferred embodiments of the present invention, the attachment means of the first and / or second set are adapted to allow retraction or bias towards the central part of the lifting module. They can also be rotated, for example in a substantially horizontal plane.

[0032] According to preferred embodiments of the present invention, the fastening means of the first and second sets of fastening means are adapted to be positioned that allows non-blocking each other when changing the distance between the first set and the second set of fastening means, the first and second sets, move in their vicinity in the direction of height. According to favorable examples

ER 2 593 391 B1 of the embodiment of the present invention, the rack further includes guide means for directing the movement of the lifting module along the racks in the scaffolding column.

[0033] In preferred embodiments, the first part comprises a work floor.

[0034] In preferred embodiments, the second part comprises a work floor.

[0035] The first part or second part may further comprise a base platform comprising means for driving distance control means.

[0036] The base platform may be included in the first part and the work floor in the second part. The base platform can be included in the second part and the work floor in the first part.

[0037] The lifting module according to the first aspect of the present invention may further comprise displacement means adapted to be connected to the rail system, the rail system being adapted to be able to be placed inside and through the at least two horizontally adjacent scaffolding sections to direct horizontal movement lifting module through adjacent scaffolding sections.

[0038] In a second aspect of the present invention, a method of lifting in a scaffold is described by means of a lifting module disposed therein according to any of the embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, the method comprising:

- attachment of the first set of attachment means at a first height in the scaffolding;

- causing the distance between the first set and the second set to increase by pushing the second set up in the scaffolding, here to a second height that is greater than the first height;

- fixing the second set in the scaffolding at a second height;

- causing the distance between the second set and the first set to be reduced by pulling the first set up from the third height towards the attached second set;

- fixing the first set at the fourth height in the scaffolding, the fourth height being greater than the third height.

[0039] In preferred embodiments, the height difference between the first height and the second height is equal to the height difference between the third height and the fourth height.

[0040] In preferred embodiments, the first and third heights are the same and the second and fourth heights are the same.

[0041] In preferred embodiments, the first and second heights correspond to the height of two successive levels longitudinally in the scaffolding.

In preferred embodiments, the height difference between the first height and the second height is equal to the difference in height between the third height and the fourth height, where the heights, the first and the third, are the same, and the heights, the second and the fourth, are the same.

[0043] In a third aspect of the present invention, a method of lowering in a scaffold by means of a lifting module according to a first aspect disposed in a column of this scaffold is described, comprising:

- securing a second set of securing means at a fourth height in the scaffolding;

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- causing an increase in distance between the attached second set of attachment means and the first set of attachment means by passing the first set of attachment means downwards in the scaffolding, to a third height that is less than a fourth height;

- fastening the first set of attachment means in the scaffolding at a third height;

- causing a reduction in the distance between the first set of attachment means and the second set of attachment means by lowering the second set of attachment means from the second height towards the attached first set of attachment means;

- attaching a second set of attachment means at a first height in the scaffolding, the first height being less than the second height.

[0044] In preferred embodiments, the height difference between the first height and the second height is equal to the difference in height between the third height and the fourth height.

[0045] In preferred embodiments, the first and third heights are the same and the second and fourth heights are the same.

[0046] In preferred embodiments, the first and second heights correspond to the height of two successive levels longitudinally in the scaffolding.

In preferred embodiments of the second or third aspect of the present invention, the method further includes temporarily moving the attachment means of the second part or first part to avoid obstacles when moving up or down in the scaffolding.

[0048] It should be noted that when lowering in the scaffolding according to certain embodiments of the present invention, lowering the second set of attachment means by disconnecting the respective connecting structures from their corresponding longitudinally may include a "lead out" action which first brings the bottom of the attachment structures of the respective attachment means to level located above the top surface longitudinally suitable. This is particularly the case when the connecting structures contain on the underside one or more recesses that need to be placed above the respective stringers.

[0049] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, a method of erecting a scaffold is described, comprising:

a. placing the lifting module according to the first aspect in the uppermost scaffolding section of the scaffolding column, such that the second part is attached to the upper longitudinal level of the scaffolding section;

b. erecting an even higher scaffolding section at the top of the previously highest scaffolding section, in which a new, even higher longitudinal level is created;

c. causing the elevator to rise to a newly formed level longitudinally according to the method of the second aspect of the present invention.

[0050] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a scaffold dismantling method is described, comprising:

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a. placing the lifting module according to the first aspect of the present invention in the highest scaffolding section of the scaffolding column, such that the second part is attached to the lower longitudinal level of the scaffolding section;

b. disassembly of stands and longitudinally upper scaffolding sections;

c. causing the lift module to lower to the next longitudinally below, according to the method of the third aspect of this invention.

[0051] In a sixth aspect of the present invention, a lifting system is described for use in a scaffolding column, wherein the scaffolding column comprises at least one scaffolding section and each of the scaffolding sections is formed essentially by scaffolding stands and frets, the lifting system comprising:

- lifting module;

- hoisting means that are adapted, at their first outer end, to be connected to the scaffolding, and at their second outer end, to be connected, or are connected to a lifting module, and which are adapted to control the lifting and lowering of the lifting module in stage.

[0052] In preferred embodiments, the scaffolding sections are formed essentially of racks and a lower set and upper set of longitudinally connecting racks at the bottom and top, respectively, and the retraction means are adapted to be connected to at least one longitudinal member.

[0053] In preferred embodiments, the retraction means are adapted to be connected to a set of longitudinally forming part of the same scaffolding section at the same level.

[0054] In preferred embodiments, the lifting module is substantially rectangular and the retraction means comprise four chains or cables, each of the chains or cables being located at the first outer end near the respective corners of the lifting module and at the second outer end at the respective a catch adapted to connect with at least one longitudinal member.

[0055] In preferred embodiments, each of the catches is adapted to be connected to a longitudinally positioned longitudinal member and adjacent to the width of the longitudinal member near the racks corresponding to the corners of the lifting module.

[0056] In preferred embodiments, the lifting module further comprises a work floor and a cover element disposed between each of the chains or cables and the work floor in a position of the worker's movement space on the work floor during use.

[0057] In preferred embodiments, the lifting system includes a frame adapted to be mounted on a part of the scaffolding and for holding one or more pull-in means internally on the scaffolding column. The pull-in means is / are preferably adapted to be connected to the frame at their first outer end.

[0058] In preferred embodiments, the retraction means comprise a hoist.

[0059] In preferred embodiments, the retraction means include a reverse hoist. [0060] In preferred embodiments, the scaffolding sections are formed essentially by racks and a lower set and an upper set of longitudinally connecting the racks with each other at the bottom and top, respectively, and the frame is adapted to be mounted at or on the upper set longitudinally and / or

ΕΡ 2 593 391 Bl of the stands of the upper scaffolding section. The frame can therefore be adapted, for example, to connect with connecting pins located / present at the upper outer ends of the racks, usually to connect with the racks above.

[0061] In preferred embodiments, the lifting system further includes means for guiding the movement of the lifting module in the scaffolding column. [0062] In preferred embodiments, the guiding means comprises a scaffold part and a lifting part.

[0063] In preferred embodiments, the scaffold portion of the guide means comprises guides along one or more racks. A guide may be present along each of the racks. These guides can be integrated into the stands. They can also be combined with and detached from the racks, which can be adapted to be connected to a particular type of racks, such as, for example, Layher ™ racks.

[0064] In preferred embodiments, the scaffold portion of the guide means includes guides that are arranged parallel to the racks and mounted on the longitudinal members. In preferred embodiments, the lifting portion of the guide means includes guide wheels adapted to allow them to cooperate with the guides on the scaffolding.

[0065] In preferred embodiments, the scaffold portion of the guide means comprises guide wheels.

[0066] In preferred embodiments, the guide wheels are mounted on the side members. [0067] In preferred embodiments, the lifter of the guide means comprises at least one guide that is disposed parallel to the racks and is adapted to cooperate with the guide wheels on the scaffolding when the lifter module is placed in the scaffolding.

[0068] In preferred embodiments, the lifting system includes two guides that are located on opposite sides of the lifting module and interact with respective guide wheels on the racks, the guide wheels and guides being adapted to cooperate in such a way as to counteract or prevent occurrence deviations in the direction of the guides relative to the direction of the racks.

[0069] In preferred embodiments, the existing guides are long enough to always interact with the guide wheels of at least two consecutive levels longitudinally when used.

[0070] Hoists or reverse hoist may be suitable hoists known in the art. They can therefore be chain hoists or steel wire hoists. Hoists can be driven, for example, electrically, pneumatically or manually.

[0071] The retraction means may further include locking means for safety reasons, for example to prevent the retractable lifting module from sliding down in the event of the retraction means not functioning properly. In addition to the hoist or reverse hoist, the retraction means may include, for this purpose, one or more additional guide lines or chains.

ΕΡ 2,593 391 Bl [0072] In preferred embodiments, the lifting module comprises an upper frame that is adapted to be connected to the winching means.

[0073] In preferred embodiments, the lifting module comprises a work floor, and the connection between the pulling means and the lifting module takes place under the working floor, where the pulling means pass through an opening in the working floor.

[0074] In preferred embodiments, the work floor comprises means for stacking scaffold material, the stacking means comprising an opening.

[0075] In preferred embodiments, the lifting module comprises an upper frame located above the working floor, the upper frame being adapted to direct the pull means. [0076] In preferred embodiments, the lifting module is a lifting module according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0077] The lifting module according to the sixth aspect of the present invention may further comprise displacement means adapted to be connected to the rail system, the rail system being adapted to allow it to be positioned in and through the at least two horizontally adjacent scaffolding sections to direct horizontal movement lifting module through adjacent scaffolding sections.

[0078] In a seventh aspect of the present invention, a displacement system for a movable module for use inside a scaffold comprising at least two adjacent scaffolding sections is described, which system allows the displaceable module to be moved through at least two mutually adjacent and laterally adjacent scaffolding sections.

[0079] The displaceable module is adapted here and has appropriate dimensions so that it can move through the scaffolding in a substantially horizontal direction along one, two or more guides, such as rails, for example.

[0080] These guides are preferably adapted to allow them to be mounted on the longitudinals at the same level longitudinally, preferably through at least two adjacent, laterally adjacent scaffolding sections.

[0081] The displaceable module may be a lifting module according to any of the embodiments of the present invention which includes displacement means, such as for example circular mechanisms, which are adapted to be guided along the guides.

[0082] The movable module may also be an independent support module (e.g. a cart, a wagon) that can be placed in the scaffolding and which includes means of movement, such as, for example, wheel mechanisms adapted to be guided along the guides. Such a wagon may be used to carry and move a lifting module according to any of the embodiments of the present invention.

[0083] The first set of guides or rails of the displacement system may further include switch means that allow insertion of the movable module onto the second set of guides for guiding.

[0084] In preferred embodiments, the second set of guides essentially forms a right angle with the first set.

52 593 391 Bl [0085] In preferred embodiments, the second set of guides may advantageously come out of the scaffolding at the front and connect the first set of guides to ground level. The lifting module with displacement means can then be directed upwards, for example from the ground level through the second set of guides to the switches and thus to the first set of guides.

[0086] Further aspects of the present invention are described in the dependent claims. Features of dependent claims, features of any claims pending and any of the features of other claims can be combined and treated as appropriate by specialists, and not only in the specific combinations set out in the claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings [0087] The accompanying drawings serve to show embodiments of the present invention. Figure 1 shows embodiments of the present invention. The scaffold lift is positioned in the scaffold in such a way that the second part / work floor is attached longitudinally to the first level in the scaffolding, while the first part / base platform is held under the working floor by means of (main) distance control without being connected at this intermediate stage with scaffolding.

Figures 2-6 illustrate an aspect of embodiments of the present invention in which the base platform is pulled to the work floor by major distance control means, after which both the work floor and the base platform are attached longitudinally at the first level.

Figures 8-11 show the continuation of the method according to embodiments of the present invention in which, after the first part / base platform is attached to the longitudinally level 1, the second part / working floor is driven upwards by means of the main means of distance control to the level at which it can take place attachment of work floor fixing means to the longitudinally next level above.

Figure 12 shows an embodiment of the connecting structure (fastening means) of the working floor.

Figure 13 shows an embodiment of the connecting structure (attachment means) of the base platform.

Figures 14 to 18 show a simpler embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 19 shows a solution according to the sixth aspect of the present invention.

Figure 20 is a side view and a perspective view of the frame according to embodiments of the sixth aspect of the present invention.

Figure 21 is a perspective view of the scaffolding part of the guiding means of the lifting system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention.

Figure 22 is a perspective view of a scaffold with a lifting module and a rail system by which the lifting module according to embodiments of the present invention can be moved through the scaffolding.

Figure 23A is a schematic top view of the switch for the rail system of Figure 22.

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Figure 23B is a schematic perspective view of a displacement wheel of a lifting module positioned on a rail in the position of the switch system.

Figure 24 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a lifting system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention.

Figure 26 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

Figure 25 shows, in different views, a latch that can be used in the embodiments shown in figures 24 and 26.

[0088] The numerals and numbers have been chosen so that they are the same for similar or the same elements or features in the various figures or drawings.

Description of Illustrative Embodiments [0089] The above-mentioned and other preferred features and objects of the invention will become more apparent and the invention easier to understand from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the corresponding drawings.

[0090] The description of aspects of the present invention is made by means of specific embodiments and with reference to, but not limited to certain figures. The figures shown are only schematic and should be regarded as non-limiting. Certain elements or features may, for example, be shown without proportions and without scale relative to other elements.

[0091] Figure 1 shows a first example of the device according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0092] In figure 1 the scaffold structure 5 is shown, which comprises a series of scaffolding sections forming a scaffolding column. The scaffolding is constructed of stands 7 (714, 712, 723, 734) and longitudinally 6 (61, 62, 63, 64) defining these sections of the scaffolding; the scaffolding section has four stringers at the bottom that connect four racks together, and also has four stringers at the top connecting the same racks to each other, resulting in a typical beam structure of the scaffolding section. [0093] The scaffolding shown in figure 1 comprises squares with a square cross-section, in which are also made holes with which the stringers can connect. However, this is not necessarily required for using a lifting module according to embodiments of the present invention. Lifting modules according to aspects of the present invention may similarly be used in conjunction with other prior art scaffold components, for example in combination with Layher ™ scaffolds, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. The next levels longitudinally in the scaffolding are designated Lo, Li, 12, .... The scaffolding lift comprises a second part comprising a working floor 2 with a working area 21 located above the active part 22 of the working floor. The active part includes mounting means for the work floor, which include, for example, four extendable and retractable arms 821 and connecting structures 822 adapted to connect to the scaffolding longitudinal members. In preferred embodiments, the working floor mounting means 82 also further include distance correction means 823, which are adapted to place the work floor in a horizontal position at all times, even when there are usually very small differences in height between stringers in four

ΕΡ 2 593 391 Bl scaffolding section corners at substantially the same level. In preferred embodiments, the extendable / retractable arms of the work floor 821 can also be moved and / or moved in a substantially horizontal plane. The inwardly facing outer end of the arms 823 can therefore be rotatably mounted around a pivot point. The work floor can also be provided on top with a handrail that can serve as a support for the user, and can also contain predefined storage sections or storage means in which the scaffolding material can be placed or laid in a predetermined manner. [0094] The main distance control means 4, which are adapted to vary the distance between the work floor and the first part comprising the base platform, are here implemented in the form of a scissor lift. Other major distance control measures that can perform the same function may be used as will be understood by specialists. Examples of these may be, for example (e.g. vertical) cylinders, (e.g. vertical) chain or endless belt systems or (e.g. vertical) threaded rods. The scissor lift can be placed in a way that does not interfere further with the placement of further components of the base platform. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, therefore, drive means (e.g., on a support surface or top surface), such as, for example, a motor or hydraulic drive system are present in the base platform. The base platform may also contain the necessary electronics. Such a scissor lift can furthermore be hydraulically driven in a simple manner. [0095] The scissor lift (or main distance control means 4) provides connection to the base platform 3 / first part. The base platform may include a support surface 31 (not shown) as well as the active part of the base platform 32. Similar to the active part of the work floor 22, the active part 32 of the base platform includes mounting means 83. These mounting means 83 include, for example, four similar extendable / retractable arms 831, which can also preferably pivot around a pivot point at their inwardly directed ends. In addition, they also include connecting structures for the base platform 832, adapted to be mounted on the scaffolding stringers, and preferably also means of distance correction 833. In preferred embodiments, these extendable / retractable arms 831 can preferably also be moved or moved, similar to the work floor arms 821.

[0096] Figure 2 shows, in detail view, mounting means 82 for the work floor when they are attached at the first level longitudinally of the scaffolding. The extendable / retractable arm 821 is connected to a distance correction means 823, which are further connected to a connecting structure 822 connected to two adjacent stringers 61 and 64 near the stand 714. The inner surface of the connecting structure is here contacted or preferably connected to the surface of the stand to thereby block the movement of the work floor in a horizontal plane relative to the stand. It should be noted that each of the four mounting means 82 is positioned in a similar manner relative to respective racks and that the position of the working floor is consequently fixed horizontally by four racks. At the bottom of the connecting structure 822 there is preferably a recess 824 adapted to engage on the associated stringers. For longitudinally round cross section as shown in figure 2, a round recess may be suitable, while for longitudinally o for example

ΕΡ 2 593 391 Bl for a rectangular cross-section, the corresponding rectangular recess may be suitable. Specialists can develop other connecting structures adapted to the longitudinally specific ones. It is also not absolutely necessary that the inner surface of this connecting structure 822 adheres to the surface of the rack, and this connecting structure can also be attached to two adjacent stringers 61, 64 at a distance from the respective surface of the rack corresponding to a distance greater than, for example, for Layher ™ stringers. [0097] Figure 3 shows the result of the action in which the main distance control means 4 pull the underlying base platform / first part up so that the connecting structures 832 of the base platform are above the first level longitudinally, optionally also using the projection of the distance correction means 833 of the base platform, and to a position in the scaffolding in which this connecting structure 832 is not blocked by the side members 61 and 64. This is achieved by moving the connecting structure of the base platform 832 and distance correction means 833 to the center of the scaffolding section by retracting the respective arms 831. After reaching this level and avoiding possible obstacles, the connecting structure of the base platform 832 can, as shown in figure 4, be moved outwards again together with the distance correction means 833 of the base platform by extending the respective arm 831. The bottom of the connecting structure of the attachment means of the base platform is here located above the upper level of longitudinally suitable ones. [0098] As shown in figure 5, the connecting structure 832 is then connected to the stringers 61 and 64, for example by placing corresponding recesses in the connecting structure over these stringers. This can be done by changing the main distance control means 4 and / or the distance correction means 833. In preferred embodiments, the outer surface 8220 of the connecting structure 822 adheres to the inner surface 8320 of the connecting structure 832, as shown in figure 6. This configuration improves the stability of the lifting module in the scaffolding. The contact surface between surfaces 8220 and 8320 may further be provided with a suitable material adapted to facilitate the sliding of adjacent connecting structures 822 and 832 with low wear (e.g. a lubricant such as a lubricant or a suitable plastic), [0099] Figure 7 shows lifting module in the scaffolding in the position corresponding to figures 5 and 6.

[0100] Figure 8 shows further progress of the lifting process. In this phase of the method, the base platform remains attached at the first level longitudinally, while the work floor 2 is pushed up relative to the base platform. In the first case, the distance correction means 823 and the connecting structure 822 remain here in the same horizontal position, in this case adjacent to the stand 714. This means that the retractable / extendable arms 821 of the work floor first remain unchanged. To further avoid possible obstacles, the assembly means can be moved by retracting the retractable / extendable arm 821 (see figure 9), thereby displacing the distance correction means 823 and the connecting structure 822 of the base platform from the stand, preferably towards the inside of the scaffolding section. The position of the mounting means 82 can, however, be changed in an alternative way, so that obstacles to moving the work floor up are avoided. These obstacles may in particular be performances

ΕΡ 2 593 391 Bl of the rack or connecting elements placed on the rack, such as stringers or rosettes, which are avoided by temporarily placing the mounting means elsewhere. Figure 10 shows a detail of the first platform "left" longitudinally on the first level. It should be noted that the connecting structure 832 does not adjoin the stand (in a similar and synchronized manner for each of the four scaffold stands). It is further shown that the connecting structure 832 is connected, for example, to a cylindrical rod driven by a piston included in the distance correction means 833. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the cylindrical rod is rotatable in the piston about its longitudinal axis. It should be noted that the connection of two depressions 834 located at the bottom of the L-shaped structure forming the joining structure 832 is placed in symmetrically predetermined positions relative to the cylindrical rod, and that these depressions can provide "automatic" distance determination with respect to the rack. This is an action that occurs with a single rack, but is reinforced when the four connecting structures 832 are attached in this way near the four stands, so a very secure fixation of the work floor in the rack is created, in particular longitudinally at a certain level . The pivotable attachment of the cylindrical rod of the distance correction means 833 along its longitudinal axis can additionally ensure that automatic rotation of the connecting structure 832 takes place, so that connection to the side members can be achieved when the positions of the pits are not initially perfectly aligned with the respective longitudinal positions. This action enables the use of this lifting module for scaffolding sections of various sizes. The swivel attachment of the retractable / extendable arms of the 831 base platform also allows you to customize the dimensions of the base platform as a function of scaffold section size. The combined operation of the pivoting movement and the extension / retraction of the respective arms of the base platform 831 and the automatic rotation of the distance correction means 832 thus allows simple adjustment for scaffolding sections of different sizes.

[0101] It should be noted that the same features apply mutatis mutandis to work floor mounting means 82.

[0102] Figure 11 shows the final result of the operation of figures 9 and 10, in which the work floor / second part is pushed upwards relative to the attached base platform / first part 3 by the main distance control means 4, without encountering any obstacles there, in particular longitudinally the next (e.g. second) level longitudinally.

[0103] In this phase of the method according to embodiments of the present invention, the extendable arms 821 of the base platform can be retracted in such a way that the connecting structures 822 can reconnect to the longitudinal members 6 near the corners of the scaffolding section formed by the racks 7. This process is not clearly shown, but again leads to the phase shown in figure 1, at the next (second) level, in which the base platform 3 is still attached at the previous (e.g. first) level longitudinally.

[0104] Figures 12A and 12B show, in detail view, a part of the assembly floor 82 of the work floor / second part (the arm is not shown). The distance correction means 823, which are adapted to be connected to the arm 821, are further connected to a rod-like element that can slide in and out in a driven manner. A bar-like element contains on

ER 2 593 391 B1 at its other outer end connecting structure 822 comprising recesses 824 that are adapted to engage longitudinally (connecting structures). A lubricant is applied to the inner wall of the connecting structure to facilitate its movement along the stand. The connecting structure may be a substantially L-shaped element in which two depressions 824 are located at the bottom of two respective L-shaped legs. The L-shaped legs preferably have the same length.

[0105] Figure 13 shows a detailed view of a portion of the mounting means 83 of the base platform / first part (arm not shown). The distance correction means 833, which are adapted to be connected to the arm 831, are further connected to a rod-like element which can slide in and out in a driven manner. The rod-like element comprises at its other outer end a connecting structure 832 comprising recesses 834 that are adapted to engage longitudinally (connecting structures). Lubricant 835 is applied to the inner wall of the connecting structure to facilitate the movement of the work floor along the stand. The connecting structure may be a substantially L-shaped element in which two depressions 834 are located at the bottom of two respective L-shaped legs. The L-shaped legs preferably have the same length.

[0106] The method can be repeated for further lifting with the lifting module to a higher level by pulling the base platform 3 up again by means of the main distance control means 4 to the next (in this case the third) level longitudinally, in the phase corresponding to the phase shown in figure 1 .

[0107] The retractable / extendable arms 831 and 821 contained in the respective mounting means 83 and 82 may consist of a series (e.g., two, three, four) of different parts inserted into and extended from each other. This extending and extending the arms can, for example, be hydraulically driven. In preferred embodiments, the retraction / extension of the arms of the work floor or base platform takes place simultaneously (synchronously) and in the same way, e.g. for balance, for hydraulic reasons or because four different arms, respectively, of the base platform or the working floor preferably they have essentially the same load-bearing properties when mounted on the side members.

[0108] Figures 14-18 show a second example of a lifting module and how it works. This lifting module has a simpler design. Its mode of operation is also illustrated for Layher ™ scaffold material. Unlike the lifting module of the first example, the second part (II) of this lifting module does not include a work floor. The work floor is contained in the first part (I) of the lifting module. The first part comprises a first set of attachment means 83 which are adapted to be attached to / connected to the side members of the same scaffolding section, e.g. Lo level side members. These fastening means 83 here comprise a series of latches similar to the latches according to the first example, although these latches are in this case connected to the first part pivotally around the pivot point, so that the latches can pivot around this pivot point. Each of these pivot points is located here near the four corners of the first part of the lifting module. Unlike the first example, in which the work floor is part of the second part, in this case the second

ΕΡ 2 593 391 Bl part does not include work floor. The second part here includes a second set of attachment means 82 that are adapted to be connected to or mounted at or on the side members at a higher level, e.g. The second part, which here consists essentially of a second set of attachment means 82, is connected to the first part 1 by means of four cylinders arranged between the first part and the second part, preferably near the corners of the scaffolding section to leave the work floor as free as possible . The cylinders here are preferably arranged along the racks 7 defining the scaffolding sections, and their retraction or extension allows the distance between the first and second parts to be changed, whereby a lifting movement similar to the lifting movement explained for the first example can be achieved. These cylinders can for example be hydraulically or pneumatically driven. These cylinders are a preferred alternative to the scissor connection described for the first embodiment. In alternative embodiments, other distance control means may also be selected as will be understood by those skilled in the art. Work floor 2 can also be equipped with handrails. The arrangement of these handrails is preferably such that when moving the lifting module up in the scaffolding, these handrails are not blocked by the elements of the lifting module and / or scaffolding. Figure 14 illustrates the situation of the lifting module in which the second set of attachment means is connected to the longitudinals of the Layher ™ type scaffolding at the Li level. At the bottom, the fastening means of the first part are still connected to the longitudinal members at the lower level Lo. Figures 15-18 show the lifting movement of such a lifting module in a scaffold which is similar to the process shown for the lifting module according to the first example.

[0109] In figure 15, the connecting means of the attachment means 83 have been deflected around their respective pivot points so that the first part of the lifting module exits level Lo longitudinally. In this situation, the lifting module hangs longitudinally at L1, to which it is connected by means of a second set of attachment means 82. The distance control means consisting of four extendable cylinders can now pull the first part upwards, resulting in the situation shown in figure 16. The fastening means 83 of the first part are here located near the fastening means 82 of the second part. The securing means of the second part 82 are still connected to the stringers at level Li of the scaffolding. The first set of attachment means 83 can then be turned back around a pivot point so that it is brought back to a position from which they can be connected to the longitudinals at the first level Li by lowering the first part to some extent again. The fastening means of the first and second parts do not interlock here (figure 17, figure 18).

[0110] It should be noted that the lifting movement does not always necessarily involve the "insertion" movement. This depends, for example, on the fastening means used and / or their connecting structure, [0111] At this time, the fastening means of the first part 83 are mounted on / connected to the longitudinal members at Li level, and the scaffolding can be erected further up by laying the racks 7 in the corners and connecting them with the new L2 level longitudinally 6. In this situation, the distance control means 4 can again move the second set of attachment means upwards in the longitudinal direction

ΕΡ 2 593 391 Bl of the second level L ·, and the securing means 82 of the second part can be reconnected with the side members at the next level L2, whereby the situation shown in figure 14 again occurs, albeit in the higher section of the scaffolding. The securing means 82 of the second set are adapted to rotate about the longitudinal axis of the spacing means, here cylinders, to avoid obstacles during lifting movement (see, for example, figure 19).

[0112] An alternative embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention is shown in figure 26.

[0113] This elevating device generally corresponds to the elevating device described with reference to figures 14 to 18. The first set of attachment means is similar to the set described with reference to figures 14 to 18. The second set of attachment means, however, is here formed by a set of four catches 82 ( shown in more detail in Figure 25), which are connected to four corresponding chains or ropes, thereby forming the centers of spacing 4. The second set of fastening means preferably must be moved by the user here to allow lifting. The other outer ends of the respective chains or cables may be connected to a driven winding mechanism 42 contained in the lifting elevator, for example in a space adapted for this purpose under the work floor. Chains or cables can be guided from this space into vertical positions on the outer side of the rising elevator by means of the associated guide wheels 41. Such guide wheels 41 are preferably located on the outer side of the four corners of the rising elevator. The worker / user present on the lifting hoist can, when the first set of attachment means is connected longitudinally to the below level, move the different spacing centers, which are chains with appropriate catches, to the next, higher level longitudinally and connect the catches with the longitudinals of this level longitudinally. After the connection is completed, the first set of attachment means can be detached again, pulled up using spacing means 4 and connected to the next level above, after which the climbing process can be repeated. Lowering follows a similar process. [0114] Hooks 82 are shown in more detail in Figure 25. The upper figures show the hook according to a preferred embodiment in a side view, while the lower left figure shows it in a bottom view, and the lower right figure shows it in a perspective view. Clip 82 includes a connecting portion 82V that includes two recesses 824, each of which is adapted to simultaneously receive one of two adjacent longitudinally, longitudinally and widthly, forming a section. This creates a stable and durable connection with the longitudinal members near the respective scaffolding stands. The tabs preferably also include a connecting portion 82R that is adapted to be connected to a chain link. This connecting part may for example comprise a ring mounted on the connecting part 82V or may for example be an opening in the connecting part.

[0115] The rising elevator may have a substantially rectangular shape in plan view. Near or at each corner, the lifting elevator may further be provided with support means, such as, for example, vertical support 43. Such support means are preferably adapted to further hold the catches in height relative to the control worker

ΕΡ 2 593 391 Bl with the lifting hoist when released, in other words to ensure that the catches do not fall back ant will not be rolled to a height that results in the worker having to bend down to catch the catches. Such supports are preferably arranged vertically near the corners of the rising jacks and may include at their upper outer end a guide wheel 31 over which the chain can be guided. In preferred embodiments, a counterweight or other force compensation means, such as, for example, a suitable spring (not shown), may also be used to ensure that the hook that is attached to the chain and whose chain is suspended above the respective guide wheel remains on stable height.

[0116] The lift according to the embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention can be advantageously used for erecting or dismantling the scaffolding structure. The lifting module can therefore be moved to the highest level of the existing scaffolding (or ground level) on which the lifting module is loaded with scaffolding material to allow further erection of the scaffolding, after which the next section of the scaffolding and the next level of scaffolding can be erected by a worker present on the work floor. This worker can be a person, but it can also be a robot arm, positioned and programmed in the right way to erect the scaffolding automatically. After the next section of the scaffolding is erected, the lifting module can be raised to the next level longitudinally, after which the next section can be constructed, and so on.

[0117] When dismantling the scaffolding, the lifting module (in particular the work floor) can be attached at the highest longitudinal level of the scaffolding, so that the worker can disassemble the longitudinal members and racks of the highest scaffolding section surrounding him and store them on the working floor. The lifting module can then be lowered again to the scaffolding section below, which has now become the highest section, to also dismantle this scaffolding section and store scaffolding material on the work floor. In this way, the entire scaffolding column can be easily dismantled.

[0118] In certain embodiments, it may be desirable for the usable surface / top surface of the available work floor to be in close contact with the scaffolding stands and stringers. Thus, a larger surface area can thus provide greater load capacity. In preferred embodiments, this surface may be separated around the entire perimeter from the scaffold structure by a distance of about 10 cm. Embodiments may therefore further include guide means (not shown) disposed at or on the connecting structures (attachment means) of the work floor and / or at or on the connecting structures (attachment means) of the base platform to direct the movement of these connecting structures along the stands scaffolding. These guide means may for example include guide wheels which during use rest at least temporarily on the scaffold stands during movement down or up the work floor and / or base platform. In this way, the anti-swaying of the lifting module can be increased.

[0119] It should be noted that the distance control means as described in certain embodiments of the present invention may include not only the main distance control means (e.g., distance control means such as a scissor lift), but optionally also

ΕΡ 2 593 391 Bl distance correction. Due to the interaction of both measures, it is possible to achieve appropriate variability in the distance between the work floor and the base platform. Distance correction means may therefore contribute relatively little to variation in distance, while to a greater extent variation in distance can usually be caused by major distance control measures. The skilled person will understand that the production of small distance differences using, for example, a scissor lift without causing telepoping can be carried out with less ease than if it had been done using other distance correction means.

[0120] It may further be noted that in certain embodiments, the attachment or release of the attachment means to or from the longitudinally may also consist of introducing or discharging the connecting structure above / from the longitudinally and can preferably be implemented by means of distance correction means. This movement or entry or exit process can be seen as part of the attachment / disconnection process. It should be noted that the distance correction means is further adapted to obtain a substantially horizontal position of the work floor / base platform in the scaffolding by fine-tuning the height of the four corners of the work floor / base platform.

[0121] Figures 19-21 show an example of a lifting system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention and its mode of operation. Figure 19 shows three scaffolding sections of the scaffolding column lying one above the other. As the scaffolding material, Layher ™ material is used here, however, as also indicated above, other types of scaffolding material can be used, as will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art. The lifting system intended for use in the scaffolding column includes a lifting module, a frame 65 that is adapted to be mounted on the scaffolding part and for internal holding of the pulling means on the scaffolding column, and lifting means (not shown) that are adapted for connection to the frame at their first outer end and at their second outer end for connection to the lifting module. Lifting or lowering the lifting module in the scaffolding can be controlled by means of retraction. Due to the presence of the upper frame to which the lifting means can be connected, the user present on the working floor 2 of the lifting module cannot be blocked by the lifting means. The retraction means are for example a hoist or reverse hoist. The hoist usually includes a drive mechanism connected to a chain or cable. With some known hoists, the mechanism can in a controlled manner raise or lower a chain or cable. When pulling up, the lifting rope can for example be rolled up or the chain can be picked up into a chain bag. In other known hoists, the mechanism itself may extend over a hanging chain or cord, with the cord or chain remaining suspended or being moved concurrently when the mechanism is moved up the cord or chain. The advantage of using a reverse hoist is that the user can intervene more quickly in the event of any problems with the winch, as the drive mechanism can remain near the user. In alternative embodiments, the upper frame 291, instead of being adapted to be connected to the winching means itself, may include guide means for the winching means line. The guide means may, for example, include a hole made in the transverse beam

ER 2 593 391 Bl forming part of the upper frame of the lifting module. In other embodiments, the hoisting means can be mounted on the lifting module, passing through an opening in the working floor 2 of the lifting module and being attached under the working floor to this lifting module. When using a reverse hoist, the drive mechanism can, for example, be located under this work floor.

[0122] The lifting system further includes guide means 292, 600 for directing the movement of the lifting module in the scaffolding column. These guiding means can be placed partly on the lifting module (lifting part) and partly on the scaffolding (scaffolding part). The lifting and scaffolding parts can then work together to ensure that the lifting module is guided in the scaffolding column. In the example shown, the scaffold portion of the guide means comprises guide wheels 600 arranged on the scaffolding longitudinal members 6. The various guide wheels 600 are arranged vertically one above the other on the longitudinal longitudinal members. Such guiding means 600 can be arranged on the longitudinal members located on opposite sides of the scaffolding section, on the longitudinal members of the scaffolding or on the longitudinals arranged longitudinally. Such scaffolding parts of the guide means can also be arranged on both longitudinally longitudinal members and on width longitudinal members.

[0123] In this example, the lifting module further includes a guide 292 that is mounted on the lifting module and adapted to interact with the guide wheels 600 on the side members. The lifting module can be directed through the scaffolding column by providing such a guide 292 on both sides of the lifting module. The length of these guides, which are laterally and along the direction of the racks (in a substantially vertical direction) to the lifting module, is preferably greater than twice the height of the scaffolding section. In this way, guide 292 interacts at all times with two guide wheels 600, which are located one above the other.

[0124] To increase the stability of the lifting system, these guides can also be extended, for example to more than three times, four times the height of the scaffolding section. On the other hand, it is also possible to place additional longitudinally between standard levels longitudinally. This can be done, for example, at half the height of the scaffolding section, but also at other intermediate heights. Such additional stringers can be equipped with a scaffolding part of the guide means. In such cases, the guides on the scaffolding assembly can be shortened, for example, to a length less than the height of the scaffolding section. The presence of such additional longitudinally can also bring increased stability. The guides and guide wheels are preferably further adapted to cooperate in such a way as to counteract or prevent the guide 292 from being deflected from a parallel direction to the uprights being a deviation from the vertical direction. The guide wheels and guides for this purpose may have a predetermined, mutually adapted and / or corresponding structure. In this example, guides 292 are located on each of the two width directions of the lifting module (near the left and right side of the scaffolding column). It is also possible to place these guides along the lifting module (near the front and back of the scaffolding column) or

52 593 391 Bl along both the longitudinal direction and the width direction of the lifting module / scaffolding. It is also possible to arrange a number of guides and associated guide wheel sets along the same plane of the scaffolding column.

[0125] Figure 20 furthermore shows, in a side view and a perspective view, the frame 65. The frame includes, for example, longitudinal beam structures 650 adapted to support a high load on the lifting module, one or more people, and a significant amount of scaffolding material. Therefore, beika 650 usually has a much higher load carrying capacity than typical longitudinal members 6, [0126] Two such support beams 650 are connected, for example in an H-shaped configuration, by means of a transverse beam 652. For example, it can be placed on support beams 650 by embedding in recesses 653 located in connecting elements 651 connected to each of the support beams 650. Note that in preferred embodiments, the frame can be dismantled. It should further be noted that in preferred embodiments, the support beams comprise a first connecting structure 651 at the first outer end and another second connecting structure 652 at the second outer end. These connecting structures may preferably not be the same, but complementary, so that when the frames are placed at the same level of two adjacent scaffolding sections, then these frames can be connected / attached simultaneously with / to the same racks / stringers (e.g. with connecting studs for the respective stands). For example, connecting structures 651 and 652 may include a sleeve that can be fitted to the connecting pin of the rack. At one of the outer ends, the sleeve structure can be located at the top, while at the other of the outer ends it can be at the bottom, so they are connected one above the other when connected to the stand. Near the outer end of the first frame with the connecting structure 652 of the sequences of subsequent frames, an accessory can be used near the respective rack, which, for example, corresponds to the connecting structure 651 (e.g., a separate hollow sleeve), but is not connected to the frame to obtain a horizontal, proper frame position.

[0127] Figure 21 shows the scaffold part 600 of guide means in the form of guide wheels mounted on a longitudinal member. The guide wheels shown include mounting means 601 adapted to be mounted on the scaffolding stringers, as well as guide wheels 603 which are supported by and connected to the mounting means 601 by means of profile 602 and shaft 604. Note that the double guide wheels shown allow the use of two lifts in adjacent scaffolding sections. If such combined use is not envisaged, a similar scaffolding portion of the guide means may comprise only one guide wheel 603 which is connected by means of profile 602 and shaft 604 with mounting means 601 adapted for mounting on the side members.

[0128] In alternative embodiments, the scaffold portion of the guide means may be formed by a single guide wheel or a single disc comprising in the center an opening through which the longitudinal member passes. The guide wheel or pulley can then rotate around an axis defined by the respective longitudinal member. The longitudinal member may further include means for attaching / maintaining the position of the guide wheel / pulley relative to the longitudinal member. Such a stringer can then be referred to as a "wheel stringer".

ΕΡ 2,593 391 Bl [0129] Figure 24 shows an alternative embodiment of the lifting system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention. Instead of using a frame connected by means of a hoist to a lifting basket or lifting module, the lifting basket comprises four chains or cables 4 connected to a set of fastening means, in this case for example a set of four fasteners 82 (shown in more detail in Figure 25). The other outer ends of the respective chains or cables may be connected to a driven winding mechanism contained in the lifting basket, for example in a space 23 adapted for this purpose under the working floor 2. The chains or cables may be directed from this space to vertical positions on the outer side of the lifting elevator behind by means of the assigned guide wheels 41. Such guide wheels 41 are preferably located on the outer side of the four corners of the rising elevator. Each of the chains or ropes is preferably also protected by means of an element or shielding means arranged between each of the chains or ropes and the space above the working floor in the position of the worker's movement space on the working floor during use. Such sheath elements may, for example, be hollow tubular parts which can also direct the respective chains or cables vertically. The cover elements allow to avoid unwanted interaction between the user and the chain during the operation of the lifting system, thus increasing the system's safety. The lifting basket may also include a set of chamfered side surfaces 23 or curved guide tubes at the bottom that can guide the lifting basket through subsequent levels longitudinally in the scaffolding column. It should be noted that this embodiment is carried out with or without additional guidance as described above, i.e. without additional vertical guides on the scaffolding or hoist and without associated guide wheels. It should also be noted that the work floor may further comprise rail parts compatible with the rail system in the scaffolding. For example, these rail parts can direct a horizontally movable platform in the scaffolding.

[0130] It should be noted that the lifting system shown in figure 19 is the lifting system corresponding to the lifting system, as explained in the second example corresponding to the embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention. [0131] However, this is not critical, although the use of two systems in combination brings additional benefits. The "rising elevator" of the second (or first) example according to embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention can thus be used to erect a scaffolding column. When a part of the scaffolding is erected with the help of a lifting module, by lifting it every time to the scaffolding section added at the top and erecting the next section repeatedly above it, and when the material is completely consumed! scaffolding present in the lifting module, then the frame 65 can for example be mounted. This frame can advantageously be disassembled but can also be integrally formed and mounted on top of the scaffolding column. The hoisting means can be placed between the frame and the lifting module, after which a lifting system can be used to cause the lifting module to be raised or lowered in the shaft formed by the scaffolding column. The lifting module according to the first aspect of the present invention can be advantageously converted to a limited one for this purpose

EP 2 593 391 Bl grade. This transformation may involve removing the spacing means and / or the first set of attachment means and / or the second set of attachment means in case they are removable. The spacing means and / or the first set of attachment means and / or the second set of attachment means may be more preferably positioned such that they do not interfere with the lifting system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention.

[0132] Mounting guide wheels 600 or alternative elements on the side members or racks preferably takes place when the "lifting elevator" is in their vicinity when the scaffolding is erected. The guides 292 on the lifting module may be pre-positioned on the lifting module, but may also be mounted later if the "lifting elevator" was converted into a lifting system with frame and hoist according to the sixth aspect of the present invention.

[0133] When a lifting module according to the first aspect of the present invention, for example an embodiment of the second embodiment, is a lifting module lifting system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention or is converted into a lifting system according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, then this lifting system can be used for example to quick loading of scaffolding material at a lower level, e.g. at ground level. Once fully loaded with scaffold material, this lift can then be quickly raised, e.g. pulled back, to the top of the scaffolding column, after which the lift system can be reused as a lift module according to the second example or according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0134] In alternative embodiments, the guide means on the scaffold may consist of guides and the lifter portion of the guide means may include guide wheels. In such embodiments, however, the guides must extend along the entire length of the scaffolding column. Such guides can be placed along and parallel to all stands of the scaffolding column. These guides can be integrated into the racks, but they can also exist separately and be adapted to be connected to racks of various existing types, such as, for example, Layher ™ racks. On the other hand, such guides can also be placed through the scaffolding column, parallel to the stands and mounted on the side members.

[0135] Instead of the guide wheels as the scaffolding part or as the lifting part of the guide means, other structures / elements that can provide substantially similar guidance can further be used. As an alternative to the guide wheels, guide blocks can be placed along the longitudinally and / or the racks or on the lifting module, which interact with the guides on the lifting module or the racks / stringers, respectively. On a contact surface adapted to be connected to the guides, these pads may contain a suitable lubricant / material with a low friction coefficient.

[0136] In certain embodiments, the guiding means may include only a hoisting portion. This lifting part may for example consist of guides as described above. Such guides can in themselves provide a certain measure of guidance because in their vertical position they are restrained by the side members (or optional additional side members) during possible lateral movement.

ΕΡ 2,593 391 Bl [0137] It should further be noted that the lifts according to the embodiments of the present invention can be equipped with displacement means (see figure 22). The displacement means may include a number (e.g. four) of wheeled mechanisms 99 that can optionally be driven which are adapted to move forward (e.g. for transport) on a rail system 9 which can be arranged through the scaffolding structure on a particular scaffold longitudinally (for example, ground level Lo). In this way, this lifting module can be easily moved through a certain level (e.g. soil level Lo) through the entire scaffolding structure, in particular to adjacent scaffolding columns. This rail system preferably comprises at least two rails 90 that are adapted to be mounted on the scaffolding chassis members 6 and on the other hand are adapted to be connected to the means of movement of the lifting module (e.g. wheels 93 of the wheel mechanism 99 of the lifting module). The rail system 9 can furthermore be equipped with switches 91, which can be adjusted, for example, manually by means of driven rotation of wheels 93 / wheel mechanisms 99 of the lifting module, which are connected thereto, this rotation taking place at a place corresponding to such a switch 91 ( see Figures 23A and 23B). Each of the wheel mechanisms may include a vertical shaft 990, which is connected via a frame 992 to a rotating shaft 991 of wheel 93.

[0138] These switches 91 may include, for example, a pulley or pulley portion 92 that can rotate freely about axis 94 and is equipped with a rail portion 93 compatible with a rail type system and is therefore adapted to receive wheels 93 of the lifting module. The disc may advantageously be rotatably mounted about the disc symmetry axis 94. The rail part compatible with the rail type system may for example be a similar rail element.

[0139] In particular, if the lifting module itself does not contain any wheeled mechanisms or other displacement means, the rail system described above can furthermore also be connected to an independent support module (e.g. a cart) which can be placed in the scaffolding and which contains the above described wheeled mechanisms or other means of displacement for steering along the rail system through scaffolding and on which the lifting module can rest.

[0140] It should further be noted that most scaffoldings are rectangular or square in size. They can therefore be rectangular and have a standard length of, for example, or 3 meters and a standard width of, for example, 1, 1.25, 1.5, 2 meters. Of course, other dimensions are also possible which are not excluded. The (variable) dimensions of the lifting module according to embodiments of the present invention may therefore preferably correspond to one or more of these "standard" dimensions.

[0141] In a further aspect of the present invention, two lifting modules or lifting systems according to embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention may be placed in two adjacent scaffolding columns. In such situations, the fastening means and / or guiding means of both lifting modules or lifting systems, in particular along the contact surface of the two scaffolding columns, are preferably selected in such a way that they do not interfere when mounted on the same scaffolding

ΕΡ 2 593 391 Bl horizontally longitudinally. It is therefore possible, for example, to mount the attachment means of the first lift along the side of the contact surface on two opposite stringers adjacent to the stringer in the contact surface, and not to the same stringer in the contact surface, whereas the attachment means of the second lift along the side of the contact surface can be mounted on the stringer in the contact surface. Arranged connecting structures can be used for this purpose along the side of the contact surface.

[0142] In the above description, examples of fastening structures 822 and 832, and fastening means 82 and 83 are discussed. In further embodiments of the present invention, locking means (not shown) may also be included in the connecting structures, which, after engaging the connecting structures on the side members they further secure the fastening relative to longitudinally, further reducing the likelihood of any undesirable detachment of the fastening means.

[0143] In the description of specific embodiments, various functions are sometimes grouped in a single embodiment, figure or description to contribute to the understanding of one or more and different inventive elements. This should not be interpreted so that all the group's characteristics must be necessarily present in order to solve a particular problem. Inventive aspects need not be found in all the features of a given group mentioned in the description of a particular embodiment.