Work platform system including suspended paneled portion and method of implementing same

A work platform system for implementation in relation to a structure, as well as subsystems and components thereof and methods of implementation and use relating thereto, are disclosed herein. In at least one embodiment, the work platform system includes a first pair of flexible elements and a second pair of flexible elements, where a respective first end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a first support component and a respective second end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a second support component. The work platform system can further include a plurality of panel structures supported upon the flexible elements, a suspension component, and a clamp structure coupled to at least one of the first pair of flexible elements and the second pair of flexible elements. The work platform system can include one or more support extension.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates, generally, to the field of work platform systems that are erected to facilitate accessing of various parts of various structures. More particularly, the present invention relates to work platform systems that are capable of being erected to extend lengthwise over significant distances between end regions, where the work platform systems further extend beneath at least some portions of the structures with respect to which the work platform systems are facilitating access.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A number of types of work platform systems are available on the market for use in a variety of environments, circumstances, and projects including, for example, construction or maintenance projects. Whether a project is a public works project (e.g., low bid), or a private project, reducing costs and/or maintaining costs at reasonable levels are important considerations for the parties involved (e.g., contractors and/or the owner). One environment in which work platform systems are used is along and particularly beneath structures that extend significant distances lengthwise, such as bridges. Such work platform systems can be employed for various reasons including, for example, to allow workers to perform various maintenance procedures (such as inspecting, cleaning, painting, repairing, or refurbishing) or construction procedures with respect to the structures, particularly in relation to regions along or proximate underside regions of the structures such as along the undersides of bridges. Also, such work platform systems can serve to perform a shielding function in terms of limiting the extent to which debris arising from such maintenance or construction procedures or otherwise can fall to regions beneath the work platform systems.

Various conventional work platform systems exist that can be implemented in such environments, and these various work platform systems vary in a number of their attributes. At least some such conventional work platform systems are catenary-based systems in which deck portions are mounted on wires that extend between end regions of the overall work platform systems, where the wires are further suspended at various intervals along the lengths of the wires by way of additional supports.

Although some such catenary-based systems can be relatively inexpensive to implement, at least some of these systems can be disadvantageous in certain respects. Among other things, one or more conventional catenary-based systems can be relatively difficult to erect or require conditions (e.g., lane closure) or expertise for proper implementation that are difficult to obtain or guarantee. Also, one or more conventional catenary-based systems are made of components that are limited in terms of lifespan or reusability, and/or employ components that lack sufficient durability or stability or are ergonomically undesirable for other reasons. Further, at least some such conventional systems provide walking surfaces that lack desired levels of flatness (e.g., the walking surfaces bend or experience excessive undulation).

For at least these reasons, therefore, it would be advantageous if a new or improved work platform system and/or method of use (e.g., in terms of installing the work platform system) could be developed that addressed one or more of the above-described concerns, and/or other concerns.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In at least some exemplary embodiments, the present invention relates to a work platform system for implementation in relation to a structure. The work platform system includes a first flexible element and a second flexible element, where a respective first end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a first support component and a respective second end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a second support component. The work platform system also includes a plurality of panel structures supported upon the flexible elements and substantially extending between the first flexible element and the second flexible element, wherein the panel structures are positioned in succession with one another so as to form a row of the panel structures extending along the flexible elements. Each of the panel structures includes a first pair of opposed edges each extending substantially parallel to the flexible elements and a second pair of opposed edges each extending between the first pair of opposed edges. A first of the panel structures includes a first support extension extending outward away from a first one of the respective second pair of opposed edges of the first panel structure. Additionally, the first support extension of the first panel structure includes a first formation into which a second one of the respective second pair of opposed edges of a second of the panel structures is positioned, the first formation serving to at least partly limit movement of the second panel structure relative to the first panel structure.

Additionally, in at least some embodiments, the present invention relates to a work platform system for implementation in relation to a structure. The work platform system includes a first pair of flexible elements and a second pair of flexible elements, where a respective first end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a first support component and a respective second end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a second support component. The work platform system also includes a plurality of panel structures supported upon the flexible elements and substantially extending between the first pair of flexible elements and the second pair of flexible elements, where the panel structures are positioned in succession with one another so as to form a row of the panel structures extending along the flexible elements. Each of the panel structures includes a first pair of opposed edges each extending substantially parallel to the flexible elements and a second pair of opposed edges each extending between the first pair of opposed edges. A first of the panel structures includes a first support extension extending outward away from a first one of the respective second pair of opposed edges of the first panel structure. Additionally, the first support extension of the first panel structure includes a first formation into which a second one of the respective second pair of opposed edges of a second of the panel structures is positioned, the first formation serving to at least partly limit movement of the second panel structure relative to the first panel structure.

Additionally, in at least some embodiments, the present invention relates to a work platform system for implementation in relation to a structure. The work platform system includes a first pair of flexible elements and a second pair of flexible elements, where a respective first end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a first support component and a respective second end of each of the flexible elements is coupled at least indirectly to a second support component. The work platform system further includes a plurality of panel structures supported upon the flexible elements, a suspension component, and a clamp structure coupled to at least one of the first pair of flexible elements and the second pair of wire extensions so that the at least one of the first pair of wire extensions and the second pair of wire extensions is or are supported by the suspension component. The clamp structure includes at least a primary surface formation and a clasp component that is rotatably attached to the primary surface formation, but locked in place relative to the primary surface formation.

Further, in at least some embodiments, the present invention relates to a method of implementing a work platform system in relation to a structure. The method includes attaching a first pair of flexible elements and a second pair of flexible elements at least indirectly to a first support and a second support, respectively, and installing a first panel section onto the first and second pairs of flexible elements. The method also includes installing a second panel section onto the first and second pairs of flexible elements, where the installing of the second panel section includes placement of a second side edge of the second panel section into at least one support component extending outward from a first side edge of the first panel section and rotating the second panel section until the second panel is supported on the first and second pairs of wire extensions. The method additionally includes determining whether at least one suspension component should be installed in relation to at least one of the first and second pairs of flexible elements and, if so, installing at least one clamp structure onto the at least one of the first and second pairs of flexible elements and coupling the at least one suspension wire to the at least one clamp structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring toFIG. 1, a side elevation view is provided of a suspension bridge100in combination with a partly implemented (or partly installed) work platform system110that is being implemented in relation to the suspension bridge for the purpose of allowing one or more work operations to be performed by work personnel in relation to the suspension bridge. It should be appreciated that the suspension bridge100is merely one example of a structure in relation to which a work platform system such as the partly implemented work platform system110(or that work platform system when in a different state of implementation as discussed further below) can be implemented and utilized. That said, the present disclosure is intended to encompass work platform systems and implementations of work platform systems in relation to any of a variety of structures rather than merely suspension bridges. Thus, althoughFIG. 1shows the suspension bridge100, it should be appreciated that the present disclosure is intended to encompass work platform systems and implementations of work platform systems in relation to a variety of other structures including, for example, other types of bridges such as arched bridges, buildings, towers, rigs (e.g., oil rigs), piers, conveyors, and other structures.

It is envisioned that at least some of the work platform systems disclosed herein are particularly suitable for use in relation to structures such as the suspension bridge100, where it is desired that the work platform system extend significant distances along (and often underneath) the structure. To this end, the present disclosure particularly encompasses work platform systems that include both a respective support subsystem and a respective suspended subsystem that extends (and potentially extends significant distances) between portions of the support subsystem. In this regard, referring still toFIG. 1, it can be seen that the partly implemented work platform system110, even when in the partly implemented state as shown, both includes a partly implemented suspended subsystem120as well as a support subsystem130. As shown, the support subsystem130includes a first portion132and a second portion134that respectively are at opposite ends of the partly implemented suspended subsystem120and respectively supported upon respective towers140of the suspension bridge100, with the partly suspended subsystem120extending between the portions132and134of the support subsystem130.

It should be appreciated that, althoughFIG. 1begins by showing the work platform system110in a partly implemented state, it will be apparent from additional description provided below as to how this work platform system (and particularly the suspended subsystem thereof) is further modified so as to include additional components and otherwise take on additional features so as to form a fully implemented work platform system as ultimately shown inFIG. 15. That is, althoughFIG. 1(as well asFIGS. 2 and 3) shows an early stage of an implementation (installation) process of a work platform system in relation to the suspension bridge100, during which the work platform system takes the form of the partly implemented work platform system110, additional description provided below provides detail as to how the partly implemented work platform system110evolves into a fully implemented work platform system, which is ultimately shown inFIG. 15.

Referring additionally toFIG. 2, an enlarged detail view of a region or portion150of the side elevation view ofFIG. 1is provided, to show a portion of the suspension bridge100along with an assembly200of the first portion132of the support subsystem130and an additional portion of the partly implemented suspended subsystem120of the partly implemented work platform system110. More particularly as shown inFIG. 2, in the present example in which the partly implemented work platform system110is being implemented in relation to the suspension bridge100, the first portion132of the support subsystem130is implemented so as to be attached to and supported by a respective one of the towers (or piers)140of the bridge, with the partly implemented suspended subsystem120in turn being supported by that portion132of the support subsystem generally at a junction225. Thus, in the detail view provided inFIG. 2, the first portion132of the support subsystem130is mounted on and supported by a first of the towers140of the bridge100, albeit it should be understood (e.g., as shown inFIG. 1) that another substantially identical portion (the second portion134) of the support subsystem is mounted on/supported by the other of the towers140(e.g., at another junction corresponding to the junction225).

As discussed further in relation toFIG. 3, the first and second portions132and134of the support subsystem130are supported directly in relation to the towers140(e.g., by way of anchors as discussed below). However, in addition to such manner of support, as is evident fromFIG. 2(as well as fromFIG. 1upon close inspection), it should also be appreciated that in the present embodiment the first and second portions132and134of the support subsystem130are further supported by support chains220. As shown, the support chains220, which can be considered to constitute additional parts of the support subsystem130, are connected to and extend downward from locations along a deck222of the suspension bridge100to locations along the main body of the support subsystem130(particularly to certain structural support components thereof, as discussed further below). The support chains220not only allow for suspension of the support subsystem130(particularly the main body of that support subsystem) in relation to the deck222of the suspension bridge100, but also allow for implementation of the support subsystem130in relation to the suspension bridge. In particular, in the present embodiment it is envisioned that the support chains220are used to hoist the otherwise-fully-assembled portions132and134of the support subsystem130upward and into place at appropriate vertical levels along the towers140, where the portions132and134are then anchored into place in relation to the towers by way of anchors as discussed below.

Referring additionally toFIG. 3, a top plan, partly cross-sectional view taken along a line3-3ofFIG. 2is provided, to further show a portion of the suspension bridge100in relation to the assembly200ofFIG. 2.FIG. 3particularly illustrates features of the portions of the partly implemented work platform system110that are included within the assembly200. In this regard,FIG. 3shows the first portion132of the partly implemented support subsystem130as extending fully around the first of the towers140of the suspension bridge100. It will be understood that, although not shown inFIG. 3, the second portion132of the support subsystem130, which is provided on the other of the towers140of the suspension bridge, similarly extends fully around that tower in the present embodiment. Further, even though in the present embodiment the first portion132and second portion132respectively extend entirely around the respective towers140in relation to which those portions are respectively positioned and/or supported, in alternate embodiments the first portion and/or the second portion (or some other platform or platform portion) need not encircle the respective tower (or pier or other structure) but rather can simply be positioned along and/or supported in relation a single side or a single region or portion of the respective tower (or pier or other structure).

Further, the partly implemented suspended subsystem120in the present embodiment is shown to include multiple pairs of wire tendons230. More particularly, the pairs of wire tendons230in the present embodiment include first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth pairs of wire tendons301,302,303,304,305,306,307,308, and309, respectively. A portion of the first pair of wire tendons301is shown in an additional detail view provided asFIG. 3Ato particularly illustrate that, although pairs of wire tendons are not visible inFIG. 3, each of the pairs of wire tendons230does nevertheless include two distinct wire tendons, which run side-by-side along with one another (that is, the two wire tendons at corresponding positions along their respective lengths are at substantially the same vertical levels, as measured relative to the ground or some similar vertical or substantially vertical reference). Also, in the present embodiment, each of the wire tendons of each pair of the wire tendons is a 7/16 inch diameter wire tendon, although in other embodiments other sizes of wire tendons (e.g., ⅝ inch diameter wire tendons) can be used, with different sizes of wire tendons particularly being selected to provide desired load capacity.

It should be appreciated that pairs of wire tendons in the present embodiment can be considered “paired” particularly in the sense that the support role played by each given tendon of the pair, in terms of supporting other structures upon it (e.g., a particular side edge of a panel section such as one of the panel sections750discussed below) is also performed equally or substantially equally by the other wire tendon of the pair, such that the other wire tendon plays a substantially redundant or auxiliary support role relative to the given wire tendon of the pair (and vice-versa). Through the use of pairs of redundant wire tendons, support can still be achieved for the suspended subsystem130even in circumstances where one of the wire tendons ceases to provide its intended support role.

Further with respect to the pairing of wire tendons, it should be noted that the mere presence of two wire tendons in support roles in a given suspended subsystem does not necessarily make those two wire tendons “paired” if the support roles provided by each respective wire tendon fail to be shared or overlap to a significant degree or if the support role being provided by the two wire tendons lacks any substantial qualitative similarity. For example, it would be appropriate to consider two wire tendons to be paired if both of the wire tendons support at least one component in the same or a substantially same manner (e.g., where each of two wire tendons supports the same edge of a panel section such as one of the panel sections750discussed below). This could be true even if the two wire tendons do not provide equal amounts of support (e.g., where one of the tendons bears 60% of the burden and the other bears 40% of the burden). Alternatively, also for example, it would not be appropriate to consider two wire tendons to be paired in a circumstance where a given one of the wire tendons supported a first side edge of a panel section but the other wire tendon supported a second opposite side edge of that panel section, and where the wire tendons otherwise did not share or substantially share any other support role (e.g., share some other support role with respect to some other component).

Notwithstanding the above description, it should be understood that the present disclosure is also intended to encompass numerous other embodiments employing numerous other arrangements of wire tendons. For example, in some alternate embodiments, the wire tendons of a given pair need not be arranged side-by-side (need not share common vertical levels along their lengths) but rather can be arranged above or below one another or in some other manner. Also for example, in some other embodiments, instead of employing pairs of wire tendons, single wire tendons can be employed independently (that is, employed to perform a support role that is not shared or substantially shared by any other redundant wire tendon or tendons), or groups of more than two wire tendons that are paired with one another (that is, paired in the sense described above, in terms of a shared or substantially shared support role) can be employed. Also, depending upon the embodiment, a given arrangement of paired (or independent) wire tendons can be employed repeatedly throughout the suspended subsystem in a consistent manner, as is the case with the partly implemented suspended subsystem120ofFIG. 3, or alternatively differing numbers of paired (or independent) wire tendons can be employed in a varying manner at different locations in a given suspended subsystem.

As for the first portion132of the support subsystem130,FIG. 3particularly shows that first portion of the support subsystem130with floor panels and suspension chains removed so as to more clearly reveal several structural support components of that first portion132that together form a “skeleton” of that first portion. Such floor panels (upon which work personnel and/or tools or machinery or other items can be supported and move or be moved) and suspension chains (which assist in supporting the first portion132relative to the suspension bridge100) are shown elsewhere inFIGS. 2, 7, and 12, withFIG. 7particularly illustrating the floor panels. That said, as shown inFIG. 3, in the present embodiment the structural support components (that is, the “skeleton”) of the first portion132of the support subsystem130particularly include a plurality of anchors300, a plurality of hubs310, and a plurality of joists330, where the hubs310are connected with one another by way of the joists330. It will be appreciated fromFIG. 3that the anchors300particularly to anchor or support the remainder of the support subsystem130in relation to the tower140, where there is a respective anchor positioned respectively between the tower140and each respective hub310. The anchors300can take a variety of forms including, for example, expansion anchors (where bolting to the tower140takes place) or chemical anchors (e.g., involving glue).

Referring toFIGS. 4 and 5, there is illustrated in more detail an example of one of the hubs310, as well as one of the hubs310in connection with an example of one of the joists330. A joist such as the joist330can be considered any elongate structural member adapted for bearing or supporting a load, such as a bar joist, truss, shaped-steel (i.e., I-beam, C-beam, etc.), or the like. By contrast, a hub such as the hub310is an interconnection structure, such as a node, hinge, pivot, post, column, center, shaft, spindle, or the like. In the present example, the hub310ofFIG. 4(and, indeed, each of the hubs310ofFIG. 3) is configured so that, when attached to one of the joists330as shown inFIG. 5, the hub310is capable of articulation relative to the joist330(and vice-versa). Articulation, as used herein, is defined as the capability to swing, and/or rotate, about a pivot point or axis. This articulation feature among other things allows for less manpower to readily assemble and disassemble components of the system in, or near, the desired finished position.

Further as shown inFIGS. 4 and 5, the hub310includes a top element311and a bottom element312spaced at distal ends of a middle section315. The top element311and bottom element312can be substantially planar in configuration, as well as parallel to each other. The top element311and bottom element312, in the embodiment shown, are substantially planar surfaces that are octagonal in shape (as viewed from a plan view). The middle section315can be a cylindrical section where a longitudinal axis of the middle section315is normal to the planes of the top element311and bottom element312. In the embodiment shown, the middle section315is a right circular cylinder. InFIG. 4, a lower portion of the middle section315is removed for clarity (at a location323) to reveal that the middle section315is hollow. Further as shown inFIG. 4, there are a plurality of openings313,314extending through both the top element311and bottom element312, respectively. The plurality of openings313(e.g.,313A,313B,313C,313D,313E,313F,313G,313H) are interspersed on the top element311so as to offer various locations for connecting to one or more of the joists330(see, e.g.,FIG. 5). The plurality of openings314(e.g.,314A,314B,314C,314D,314E,314F,314G,314H) are similarly spaced on the bottom element312so that respective pairs of the openings313and314(e.g.,313A and314A) are coaxial.

It should particularly be appreciated that, in the present embodiment, the wire tendons230of the partly implemented suspended subsystem120can also be coupled to the support subsystem130by coupling those wire tendons to respective ones of the openings313(or314) of the appropriate ones of the hubs310. In the present embodiments, these connection locations generally constitute the junction225mentioned above in relation toFIG. 2. The actual mechanism by which coupling takes place can vary depending upon the embodiment. For example, in some embodiments, the wire tendons230can have looped ends, and then additional loop structures, C-bracket structures, clasping structures, or hook-type components are provided so as to extend through both the respective looped ends of respective ones of the wire tendons230and corresponding ones of the openings313(or314) of the hubs310so as to achieve attachment. In other embodiments, any of a variety of other connective, clasping, locking, or fastening mechanisms or brackets can be employed to achieve attachment of the wire tendons230(and ultimately the fully completed suspended subsystem) to the support subsystem130at the junction225, and such structures can be supplemented by additional structures that facilitate a clean transition between the floor panels of the support subsystem and the corresponding floor panels of the suspended subsystem.

Also as shown, at the center of the top element311is a center opening316, which is configured to be able to receive a linkage or suspension connector by which the hub310can be suspended from another structure, such as from a deck222(seeFIG. 2) of the suspension bridge100. The center opening316can be generally cruciform in configuration with a center opening area319and four slots317(e.g.,317A,317B,317C,317D) extending therefrom. Transverse to each of the four slots317A,317B,317C,317D, and interconnected thereto, are also a series of cross slots318A,318B,318C,318D. For added strength a reinforcing plate320is added to the underside of the top element311, where openings on the reinforcing plate320correspond to (and are generally coextensive with) the center opening316configuration and all the ancillary openings thereto (e.g., the slots and area317,318,319). A handle322is optionally added to a side of the middle section315. Although not visible inFIGS. 4 and 5, it should be appreciated that an identical (center) opening is formed on the bottom element312, and the bottom element along its top side can likewise include a reinforcing plate with the same opening. Also not shown, attached to the reinforcing plate along the bottom element312and the interior face of the middle section315can be a plurality of gussets that provide added support to the hub310.

In addition toFIG. 5depicting a top perspective view of the interconnection between a single one of the hubs310and a single one of the joists330, furtherFIGS. 6A and 6Bshow an exploded top perspective cutaway view, and a regular (unexploded) top perspective cutaway view, respectively, of a typical connection between the hub310and joist330. As shown, the joist330includes an upper element332and a bottom element333. Interspersed between the elements332,333are a plurality of diagonal support members338. Each of the elements332,333is made of two L-shaped pieces of angle iron339A,339B. The elements332,333typically can be identical in construction, with the exception being that the upper element332includes connector holes354A,354B at its midspan. The joist330includes a first end331A and a second end331B. At each of the ends331A,331B of both the upper element332and bottom element333, there extends an upper connecting flange335and a lower connecting flange336. Additionally, through each of the upper and lower connecting flanges335,336, there are connecting holes337.

Thus, given the above description, it should be appreciated that there are four upper connecting flanges335A,335B,335C,335D and four lower connecting flanges336A,336B,336C,336D, as well as four connecting holes337A,337B,337C, and337D, on the joist330. Accordingly, at the first end331A, extending from the upper element332, is an upper connecting flange335A and lower connecting flange336A, with a connecting hole337A therethrough (see bothFIG. 5andFIG. 6A). Similarly, at the second end331B of the upper element332, there extends an upper connecting flange335B and lower connecting flange336B, with a connecting hole337B therethrough. Also, at the first end331A of the lower element333there extends an upper connecting flange335D and lower connecting flange336D. Through these connecting flanges335D,336D are a connecting hole337D. Further at the second end331B of the joist330extending from the lower element333is an upper connecting flange335C and lower connecting flange336C with a connecting hole337C therethrough. In addition to the respective connecting holes337A,337B,337C,337D, each of the connecting flanges335A,335B,335C, and335D additionally includes a respective additional locking hole360A,360B,360C,360D, respectively, all of which are located inwardly of the respective connecting holes (that is, axially toward the center of the joist330relative to the connecting holes).

Further as shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B, pins340A can be placed through the connecting holes337of the connecting flanges335,336at each of the first end331A and second end331B of the joist330and further through any two corresponding ones of the openings313,314of the hub310.FIGS. 6A and 6Bparticularly show one of the pins340A employed at the first end331A, it being understood that the same or substantially same arrangement can be present at the end331B. In this manner, the joist330can be connected in a virtually limitless number of ways, and angles, to the hub310. For example, as shown particularly inFIGS. 6A and 6B, one of the pins340A can be placed in through the connecting flange335A, through the opening313A, through the connecting flange336A (all at the first end331A of the upper element332), through the connecting flange335D, through the opening314A, and then through the connecting flange336D. In this scenario, the pin340A further threads through connecting holes337A and337D.

Also as shown (particularly seeFIGS. 6A and 6B), each of the pins340A additionally includes two roll pins342at its upper end. The lower of the two roll pins342acts as a stop, thereby preventing the pin340A from slipping all the way through the joist330and hub310. The upper roll pin342acts as a finger hold to allow easy purchase and removal of the pin340A from the joist330and hub310. The design of these various parts is such that free rotation of both the joist330and hub310is allowed, even while the joist330and hub310are connected together. Rotational arrows R1ofFIGS. 5 and 6Bshow the rotation of the joist330relative to the hub310, while rotational arrows R2show the rotation of the hub310relative to the joist330ofFIGS. 5 and 6B. These rotational capabilities of the joist330and hub310relative to one another provide, in part, the articulating capability of the present design.

Although articulation of the joist330and hub310relative to one another can occur in some embodiments or operational circumstances, in other embodiments or circumstances such articulation is precluded. In particular, articulation is typically precluded when the work platform system is fully implemented, or even when the structural support components of the partly implemented support subsystem130are installed as shown inFIG. 3. To preclude such articulation, as shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B, optional locking pins340B (one of which is shown) are installed in relation to the interfacing hubs310and joists330. More particularly as shown, locking of the hub310and joist330ofFIGS. 6A and 6B, so as to prevent relative articulation, is achieved by adding the locking pin340B through the locking holes360A and360D proximate the end331A of the joist330. The locking pin340B particularly operates to preclude such articulation (at least in part) due to contact with the hub310along two of several grooves (or slots/dimples)324formed along the perimeters of the upper element311and lower element312of the hub310. Because the locking pin340B extends through two of the grooves324, the locking pin effectively is prevented from moving around the perimeters of the upper and lower elements311,312and correspondingly prevents such movement of the joist330relative to the hub310.

As with the pin340A, the locking pin340B can include additional two roll pins342as shown, which serve the same purposes as discussed above with respect to the roll pins provided on the pin340A. Although not shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B, it should be likewise understood that another of the locking pins340B can similarly be added through the locking holes360B and360C proximate the end331B (seeFIG. 5) of the joist330when that end is connected to another one of the hubs310by another of the pins340A.

It should be appreciated that, in the present embodiment the support subsystem130employs components and features according to the QuikDeck™ suspended access system available from Safway Services, LLC of Waukesha, Wis., the beneficial assignee of the present patent application. As already discussed, and as further discussed below, these components of the support subsystem130among other things include the anchors300, hubs310, and joists330and related subcomponents discussed above as well as the floor panels732and support chains220further discussed below. Nevertheless, it should also be appreciated that a variety of other support subsystems and support subsystem components can also or instead be utilized depending upon the embodiment or circumstance, and such other support subsystems and associated components are also intended to be encompassed herein.

Among other things, the present disclosure is particularly also intended to encompass support subsystems that employ other component(s) such as any of those described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,779,599 entitled “Articulating Work Platform Support System, Work Platform System, and Methods of Use Thereof”, issued on Aug. 24, 2010, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein (said issued patent being assigned to a common assignee with the present patent application). Also, for example, notwithstanding the above description of the hubs310, joists330, and associated components shown inFIGS. 4, 5, 6A, and 6B, it should be appreciated that these components are only example components that can be employed among the components forming the underlying/internal structural support components (or “skeleton”) of the support subsystem130and that other structural support components can be employed in other embodiments. Further for example, depending upon the embodiment, the support subsystem130can include a variety of other components in addition to, and/or instead of, the anchors, hubs, joists, floor panels, and support chains already discussed above.

Additionally for example, depending upon the embodiment, various differently-shaped components can be utilized. For example, while joists such as the joist330can be bar joists, the joists can also be open-web joists and/or structural tubing. Further for example, one or more of the joists330can be made of multiple pieces of structural tubing shapes, or the joists330can be one single structural tubing shape. Similarly, the joist330could be made of shaped steel (e.g., wide flange elements, narrow flange members, etc.), or other suitable shapes and materials. Also, additionally other types of joists that are curved rather than linear (straight) can be employed, as can other types of panel portions and supports for such panel portions. Further, although in the present embodiment it is envisioned that the first and second portions132and134of the support subsystem130(including all hubs, joists, anchors, floor panels, and support chains thereof) will be fully assembled and installed in relation to the towers140prior to any portions of the suspended subsystem (e.g., the partly implemented subsystem120) being implemented, in alternate embodiments it is possible that portions of the support subsystem130will be implemented contemporaneously with, or subsequent to, implementation of the suspended subsystem.

Turning now toFIG. 7, a top plan, partly cross-sectional view of an assembly700of portions of a further implemented work platform system710corresponding to (that is, portions of the system which would be positioned in) the region150ofFIG. 1is shown. The particular view provided byFIG. 7is one taken along line7-7ofFIG. 12, which as discussed further below shows an additional enlarged detail view of a side elevation view of the assembly700in combination with portions of the suspension bridge100corresponding to the region150ofFIG. 1. The further implemented work platform710should be understood particularly to be the partly implemented work platform system110ofFIGS. 1-3as further modified to include additional components. In particular, the portions of the further implemented work platform system710shown inFIG. 7include both the support subsystem130discussed above as well as portions of a further implemented suspended subsystem720, which is the partly implemented suspended subsystem120after being modified to include additional components.

Although the support system130appears somewhat different inFIG. 7by comparison withFIG. 3, this is merely becauseFIG. 7now shows panel sections732that are supported upon the hubs310and joists330(the “skeleton”) of the support structure that were shown and discussed in relation toFIG. 3. As already mentioned above, the panel sections732effectively provide a floor upon which work personnel can walk and on which equipment and components can be transported and supported. Notwithstanding this difference in appearance, it should nevertheless be understood that the support subsystem130ofFIG. 7is the same as that shown inFIG. 3, as well as the same as that shown inFIGS. 2 and 12, and thus particularly includes all of the hubs310, joists330, and anchors300shown inFIG. 3as well as the panel structures732and the support chains220shown and discussed in relation toFIGS. 2 and 12. It should additionally be understood that, although the support subsystem130is considered be a fully implemented or installed support structure for the present embodiment, in other embodiments additional components not shown inFIG. 7(or inFIG. 2, 3, or12), such as railings, can still be added to the support subsystem130and that the support subsystem would only be complete after such additional components are implemented.

With respect to the further implemented suspended subsystem720, as shown inFIG. 3this suspended subsystem differs from the partly implemented suspended subsystem120ofFIG. 3particularly insofar as the subsystem720includes multiple panel sections750that have been installed so as to be supported upon the various pairs of wire tendons230. More particularly as shown, given the presence of the nine pairs of wire tendons230(that is the pairs of wire tendons301,302,303,304,305,306,307,308, and309), there are shown to be eight partly completed rows of the panel sections750, namely, first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth rows751,752,753,754,755,756,757, and758, where each respective one of the rows (e.g.,751,752, etc.) is supported upon a corresponding pair of successive ones of the pairs of the wire tendons230(e.g., the pairs301and302, the pairs302and303, etc.). It should be appreciated that the actual number of rows of panel sections750, as well as the actual number of pairs of wire tendons230, can vary depending upon the embodiment. For example, in some other embodiments, there is only a single row of the panel sections750positioned on and between two pairs of the wire tendons230, while in other embodiments, there can be more than or less than eight rows of panel sections and more than or less than nine pairs of wire tendons.

Turning now toFIGS. 8, 9, and 10, a top plan view, side elevation view, and right end side elevation view of an example one of the panel sections750ofFIG. 3are respectively shown. For example,FIGS. 8, 9, and 10can be considered to show a panel section765shown inFIG. 3, which is the rightmost panel section of the sixth row756of panel sections, and which can be considered identical to each of the other panel sections750shown inFIG. 3. As illustrated, the panel section765is generally in the shape of an elongated rectangle, and in the present embodiment has a width dimension759of 92 inches (or about eight feet) and a length dimension761of 24 inches (two feet). For purposes of the present discussion, the width dimension759corresponds substantially to the distance between neighboring ones of the pairs of wire tendons, between which the panel section765extends, and the length dimension761by contrast corresponds to the length of the panel section765along the wire tendons (albeit in other embodiments length and width dimensions can be defined differently).

In other embodiments, these dimensions of any one or more of the panel sections that are employed in a given suspended subsystem can vary from those shown with respect to the panel section765. For example, in another embodiment, the panel section can be approximately eight feet long by one foot wide. Indeed, the panel section need not be an elongated rectangle but also could be another shape, such as that of a square. Additionally, although not shown inFIG. 7, in some embodiments different panel sections having different sizes (and/or shapes) can be implemented in the same work platform system. For example, certain of the panel sections can have the two feet by eight feet dimensions stated above, and others of the panel sections in the same work platform system can have one foot by eight feet dimensions. Through the use of panel sections of varying dimensions (e.g., different length and/or width dimensions), a variety of practical issues associated with the implementation of the work platform system can be conveniently addressed. For example, if one or more obstacles (e.g., a pipe jutting beneath the deck22) precludes the implementation of one of the panel sections750along one of the rows of panel sections, it can still potentially be possible for a panel section of a different size to be implemented instead.

As an example, the panel section765particularly includes a top panel surface763having dimensions that are equal to the previously-mentioned width and length dimensions759and761of the overall panel section765, and that is the surface upon which work personnel can walk. In the present embodiment, the top panel surface763is made of wood (e.g., plywood). Use of wood as the top panel surface763can be particularly advantageous in that surface provides better traction even during conditions where moisture exists on the surface (e.g., during a rainstorm) than if other materials such as sheet metal were used. Nevertheless, the particular material employed to form the top panel surface763can vary depending upon the embodiment.

Further with respect to the panel section765, the top panel surface763is mounted upon steel tubes or struts760, which are shown in each ofFIGS. 8, 9, and 10(the struts are shown in phantom particularly inFIG. 8), and which a support structure or “skeleton” underlying the panel surface763. Additionally as shown, the struts760particularly include a pair of side struts762, a pair of end struts764, and a middle strut766. The side struts762and end struts764effectively form a loop that follows along the perimeter of the panel surface763, with the side struts762extending the full length of the width dimension759and the end struts764extending the full width of the length dimension761. The middle strut766is positioned underneath the panel surface763so as to extend between the two side struts762, midway between the end struts764.

In addition to the top panel surface763and the struts760, the panel section765additionally includes several support components that extend outward from the struts760and allow for the mounting of the panel section765in relation to the wire tendons230and also in relation to other ones of the panel structures750as shown inFIG. 7(e.g., so as to form the rows of panel sections). More particularly as shown, these support components include four wire tendon support extensions770as well as four handle support extensions780, all of which extend outward beyond the confines of either the width and length dimensions759and761mentioned above. As shown, the wire tendon support extensions770particularly extend outward away from the end struts764, that is, outward along directions that are parallel or substantially parallel to the width dimension759. Two of the wire tendon support extensions770extend outward generally at opposite ends of one of the side struts762, and the other two of the wire tendon support extensions770extend outward generally at opposite ends of the other of the side struts762. By contrast, the handle support extensions780extend outward from the side struts762in directions parallel or substantially parallel to the length dimension761, and are all positioned at locations well inward of the end struts764.

As is evident fromFIG. 8, the wire tendon support extensions770include small bends774such that outer portions776of the extensions770are shifted slightly relative to inner portions778by which the extensions770are affixed to the end struts764. More particularly, in the present embodiment, each of the wire tendon support extensions770extending from a first one of the end struts764(e.g., the right end strut shown inFIG. 8) has a respective outer portion776that is offset or shifted in a first direction along the length dimension761, and each of the wire tendon support extensions770extending from the other one of the end struts764(e.g., the left end strut shown inFIG. 8) has a respective outer portion776that is offset or shifted in a direction opposite that of the first direction. Such oppositely-directed offsets (or “joggles”) of the outer portions776that are at opposite ends of the panel section765are complementary so as to make it possible for two of the panel sections750in neighboring ones of the rows (e.g., two panel sections that are respectively positioned, side by side, in the rows756and757ofFIG. 7) to be supported upon a shared pair of the wire tendons230(e.g., by the pair of wire tendons307) and also to be aligned such that the corresponding side struts762of each of the panels sections are exactly aligned with one another. Thus, inFIG. 7, the rows751,752,753,754,755,756,757, and758of the panel sections750are shown to be completely aligned with one another.

Further as illustrated, particularly inFIG. 9, each of the wire tendon support extensions770and particularly the outer portions776thereof includes a pair of indentations772that extend upward from a bottom ridge of those portions. It is by virtue of these indentations772that the outer portions776of the wire tendon support extensions770can be slipped over and onto the two pairs of wire tendons230between which the panel750is to be positioned. Thus, for example, continuing to assume that the panel section750ofFIGS. 8, 9, and 10is the panel section765ofFIG. 7that is the rightmost one of the panel sections of the sixth row of panel sections756, then the indentations772of the leftward one of the outer portions776shown inFIG. 9can be considered to be the indentations that receive (slip over) the pair of wire tendons307, and the indentations772of the rightward one of the outer portions776shown inFIG. 9can be considered to be the indentations that receive (slip over) the pair of wire tendons306.

In addition to the above features, it will be observed fromFIG. 9that in the present embodiment each of the wire tendon support extensions770also includes an orifice or notch781, positioned generally in between the indentations772of the respective wire tendon support extension. By virtue of the presence of the orifices781of the wire tendon support extensions, in some embodiments, additional structures such as guard rail posts or wires or other structures (not shown) can be affixed to the wire tendon support extensions and thus to the remainder of the suspended subsystem.

Notwithstanding the above discussion concerning the wire tendon support extensions770, it should be appreciated that those extensions (or similar structures employed to allow the panel sections750to be supported upon flexible support elements such as the wire tendons230) can take on different forms in other embodiments. For example, in some alternate embodiments, the wire tendon support extensions do not have any offsets (or “joggles”). That is, in such embodiments, the wire tendon support extensions are straight such that the inner and outer ends (that is, the portions of the wire tendon support extension corresponding to the inner and outer portions778and776discussed above) are aligned. The offsets (or “joggles”) need not be employed in all embodiments, since the thickness of the wire tendon support extensions can be small, and since there is not always any particular need that panel sections provided in rows on opposite sides of a given pair of wire tendons be fully aligned (that is, so that the side struts762of panel sections in different rows are lined up).

Further in some alternate embodiments one or more subfeatures of one or more the wire tendon support extensions can take a form different than those discussed above with respect toFIGS. 8, 9, and 10. For example, in one alternate embodiment, one or more of the wire tendons support extensions of a panel section can take the form of a wire tendon support extension770A shown inFIG. 9A, which for comparison purposes is shown to correspond to a portion of one of the wire tendon support extensions770ofFIG. 9. In this example, rather than having the two indentations772that are identical in shape, instead the wire tendon support extension770A has a first indentation772A and a second indentation772B that are somewhat different in shape, with the second indentation772B identical or substantially identical to the indentations772ofFIG. 9but the first indentation772A having an additional cutout region783A expanding the indentation beyond the size and shape of the indentations772ofFIG. 9. The expanded size of the first indentation772A with the additional cutout region783A allows, in at least some embodiments, easier mounting of the wire tendon support extension770A onto pairs of wire tendons such as the wire tendons230. Also it can be noted that, in the alternate embodiment ofFIG. 9A, the wire tendon support extension770A includes an orifice781A corresponding to the orifice781of one of the wire tendon support extensions770ofFIG. 9except insofar as the orifice781A is positioned lower and closer to the second indentation772B than to the first indentation772A (at least when compared to the uppermost tips of the two indentations) to accommodate the presence of the additional cutout region783A of the first indentation772A. Notwithstanding the above description concerningFIGS. 9 and 9A, it should be understood that the wire tendon support extensions can be modified in other manners as well. For example, in some additional embodiments, additional holes (e.g. in addition to the orifice781or orifice781A can be added to facilitate fixturing and/or for use on scaffold arrangements of other sizes).

Referring still toFIGS. 8, 9, and 10, the handle support extensions780take a different structural form than the wire tendon support extensions770insofar as each of the extensions780is a looping structure that extends outward away from one of the side struts762(outward away from the top panel surface763), then extends sideways generally parallel to the side struts so as to form a respective intermediate handle portion779, and then loops back so as to connect up again with the respective side strut from which it originally extended (at a different location along that side strut). In this sense, each of the handle support extensions780is a U-shaped extension. Further as evident fromFIG. 10, when the panel section765is viewed from the right end side (or the left end side), it becomes apparent that each of the handle support extensions780not only is U-shaped but also has an L-shaped characteristic. More particularly as shown, each of the handle support extensions780juts outward from the respective side strut762on which it is mounted, in a generally horizontal manner (that is, parallel to the top panel surface763), but then extends further to include a hook-like formation785, at which the respective handle support extension first dips down (that is, away from the top panel surface) slightly and then curves back upward (that is, toward the plane of the top panel surface) to a location at which the intermediate handle portion779of the extension is formed. In the present embodiment, the respective intermediate handle portions779of the respective handle support extensions780are at respective locations that are substantially higher than the respective locations at which the respective handle support extension780first extend horizontally outward.

The particular hook-shaped configuration of the handle support extensions780of each of the panel sections750such as the panel section765serves several purposes. To begin, shape of the handle support extensions780allows those extensions to serve as handles by which work personnel (or other installation equipment) can grasp and support (and thus lift and move) the panel sections750during implementation of the work platform system. Additionally, the shape and positioning of the handle support extensions780(as discussed further below) allows for adjoining ones of the panel sections750in any given row of the panel sections to be easily positioned in relation to one another and ultimately interlocked with one another. Indeed, due to this interlocking of panel section sections of a given row afforded by the handle support extensions780, in combination with the weight of the panel sections themselves, the panel sections750in the present embodiment can generally be supported and mounted onto the pairs of wire tendons230(with the indentations772receiving the pairs of wire tendons) without any additional securing mechanisms that would tend to preclude lifting of the panel sections off of the wire tendons. That is, the panel sections750, once in place, are not positively locked to the wire tendons but merely remain in place relative to those tendons because of their weight and their interconnections with neighboring panel sections. That said, it should also be appreciated that, in alternate embodiments, the panel sections750can include other features by which the panel sections are positively locked or secured to the pairs of wire tendons on which those panel sections are supported.

Further in regard to the installation and interlocking of the panel sections750such as the panel section765,FIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11Crespectively provide first, second, and third partially cutaway schematic views of an additional panel section791(which is of the same type as each of the panel sections750) being installed in relation to the panel section765that has already been positioned onto the wire tendons230(e.g., on to the sixth and seventh pairs306and307of the wire tendons), so that the additional panel section791likewise is positioned onto and supported by those wire tendons. More particularly, each ofFIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11Cis a cross-sectional view that is taken through both of the panel sections765and791, along a line that corresponds to a line11-11shown inFIG. 8with respect to the panel section765, where as shown inFIG. 8the line11-11cuts through one of the handle support extensions780of the panel section765that is along that one of the side struts762of that panel section adjacent to which the additional panel structure791is to be placed. Further in this regard, it should be understood that, althoughFIG. 8does not show also the additional panel section791, the cross-sectional view that is provided inFIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11Cis that which would be appropriate given a typical installation process of the additional panel section791in relation to the panel section765in which the end struts764of the two panel sections are aligned with one another.

More particularly,FIG. 11Ashows how, when the additional panel section791is first being installed in relation to the panel section765, the additional panel section791is first positioned (e.g., by work personnel lifting the panel section791into place using the handle support extensions780) so that the top panel surface763of the additional panel section791is received into and extends substantially vertically upward from the two co-aligned handle support sections780of the panel section765. When positioned in this manner, a first of the side struts762of the additional panel section791is positioned into the hook formations785of the handle support extensions780of the first panel section765into which the additional panel section791has been received. Also, in this initial position, the top panel surface763extends downward to the handle support extensions780of the panel section765(or almost to those handle support extensions) and extends in between the neighboring side struts762of the panel sections765and791).

Turning toFIGS. 11B and 11C, respectively, upon the additional panel section791being positioned into place relative to the panel section765as shown inFIG. 11A, then further installation of the additional panel section791occurs by rotation of that panel section791in a direction generally indicated by an arrow792ofFIG. 11B, that is, rotation generally downward and outward away from the panel section765, up until such time as the additional panel section791is fully in place such that the top panel surface763of that panel section is horizontal and parallel to the top panel surface763of the panel section765. When such rotational movement is fully completed, it will be appreciated that both of panel sections765and791are then supported upon the wire tendons306and307between which those panels both extend, by way of the wire tendon support extensions770formed on each of those panels (as discussed above with respect toFIGS. 8 and 9). Also, upon full installation, the neighboring side struts762of the panel sections765and791generally adjoin one another. It will be appreciated that, to allow for proper rotation of the additional panel section791relative to the panel section765, the handle support extensions780necessarily extend outward away from the side strut762of the first panel section765on which those handle support extensions are mounted by a distance that is somewhat in excess of the cross-sectional width of the side struts762of the additional panel section791, with such an excess distance being shown inFIG. 11Cas a distance794.

Further as shown inFIG. 11C(although not shown inFIGS. 11A and 11B), the additional panel section791includes handle support extensions780just as does the panel section765. Given that the spacing of the handle support extensions780on each of the panel sections765,791is the same as that shown inFIG. 8(which is representative of the features of each of the panel sections750including the panel sections765and791), it should be recognized that the handle support extensions780on one of the side struts762of each of the panel sections750are offset in a first direction, relative to the middle strut766of the respective panel section, but that the handle support extensions780on the opposite one of the side struts762of the respective panel section750are offset from the middle strut in the opposite direction. That is, the handle support extensions780along the top one of the side struts762as shown inFIG. 8are offset to the right while the handle sections along the bottom one of the side struts762are offset to the left. More particularly, in the present example embodiment of the panel section765as shown inFIG. 8, the leftmost portion of the left handle support extension780extending from the upper one of the side struts762is offset thirty-two inches from the left side edge of that panel section, which is also the left side edge of the left one of the end struts764, and the leftmost portion of the right handle support extension780extending from that side strut is offset over another twenty-eight inches from the leftmost portion of that left handle support extension. By contrast, the rightmost portion of the right handle support extension780extending from the lower one of the side struts762is offset thirty-two inches from the right side edge of that panel section, which is also the right side edge of the right one of the end struts764, and the rightmost portion of the left handle support extension extending from that side strut is offset over another twenty-eight inches from the rightmost portion of that right handle support extension.

Given this arrangement of the handle support extensions780on each of the panel sections750, it should be appreciated that the handle support extensions780of each of the panel sections750are substantially complementary. That is, due to the oppositely-shifted arrangements of the handle support extensions780on opposite sides of each of the panel sections750, neighboring panel sections can be positioned next to one another in a manner in which, instead of the handle support extensions780of the neighboring panel sections encountering and obstructing one another, the handle support extensions780of each of the neighboring panel structures serves to engage or mesh with the other of the neighboring panel structures. For example, when one of the panel sections750such as the additional panel section791is implemented in relation to another of the panel sections such as the panel section765as shown inFIG. 11C, the handle support extensions780on the side of the panel section765facing the additional panel section791extend under and up and around the adjoining side strut762of the additional panel section791, and likewise the handle support extensions780on the side of the panel section791facing the panel section765(as shown in phantom inFIG. 11C) extend under and up and around the adjoining side strut762of the panel section765.

Although the panel section765shown inFIGS. 8, 9, and 10and again inFIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11Cis one example type of panel section that can be employed in a suspended subsystem such as the further implemented suspended subsystem720, as already discussed it should be appreciated that depending upon the embodiment or circumstance numerous types of panel sections having many different types of features can be employed. In addition to variations in the overall sizes, dimensions, or shapes of the panel sections that are employed, which can vary with the particular suspended subsystem and even vary in the context of a given suspended subsystem, it is also possible for features of the panel sections such as the handle support extensions to vary as well.FIGS. 11D, 11E, 11F, 11G, 11H, 11I, 11J, 11K, 11L, and 11Mare several examples of alternative panel sections850,856,860,870,880,885,888, and890having certain features differing from those of the panel section765. More particularly, as shown, in these example embodiments, each of the alternative panel sections includes wire tendon support extensions770substantially identical to those of the panel section756, but instead have different types or arrangements of handle support extensions and/or complementary components for interfacing handle support extensions.

More particularly in this regard, referring toFIG. 11D, a perspective view is provided of the alternative panel section850, which is substantially identical to the panel section765except insofar as, although the alternative panel section850includes a pair of the handle support extensions extending from a first side852of the alternative panel section, no other handle support extensions are provided on the opposite side854of the alternative panel section. Additionally, rather than employing the hooked type of handle support extensions780present in the panel section756, the alternative panel section850employs handle support extensions851that differ from the handle support extensions in that the handle support extensions merely extend outward from the side852horizontally and then experience an upward 90 degree bend, as is shown particularly well inFIG. 11G, which is discussed further below.

Further, referring toFIG. 11E, a perspective view is provided of the alternative panel section856, which is substantially identical to the alternative panel section850except insofar as, although the alternative panel section856includes a pair of the handle support extensions851, one (rather than two) of those handle support extensions is provided on a first side858of that alternative panel section and the other of those handle support extensions is provided on an opposite side859of that alternative panel section. Additionally, referring toFIG. 11F, a perspective view is provided of the alternative panel section860, which is substantially identical to the alternative panel section856except insofar as the alternative panel section860only includes a single one of the handle support extensions851along a first side861(positioned generally at the middle of that side), but no handle support extension along an opposite side864.

Although the type, number, and positioning of the handle support extension(s)851in each of the alternative panel sections850,856, and860varies from that of the panel section756, it should be appreciated that the handle support extension(s) in each of these alternative panel sections still can perform to at least some extent the functions performed by the handle support extensions780in the panel section756(and the panel section790) as illustrated inFIGS. 11A, 11B, and 11C. The handle support extension(s)851can still be used for carrying and moving of the alternative panel sections850,856, and860. Also, the handle support extension(s)851can further serve (at least to some extent) to orient, capture and support adjacent panel sections. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 11G, which illustrates in a cross-sectional, partly cutaway view two of the alternative panel sections850ofFIG. 11Din an assembled positioned adjacent to one another side-by-side (as if in a row of the panel sections), it is still the case in such an embodiment that the handle support extensions851extending from the opposite side852of one of those alternative panel sections will extend under, up, and around a neighboring side strut862of the other of those alternative panel sections860, and thus serve to at least partly hold in place and support that other panel section.

Further, with respect toFIG. 11H, the alternative panel section870by contrast with the alternative panel section850ofFIG. 11Dincludes a pair of handle support extensions872extending from a first side874that, in contrast to the handle support extensions851, have no bends at all but rather merely are U-shaped structures extending out purely horizontally from the first side874. Additionally, on an opposite side878of the alternative panel section850, rather than having any handle support extensions of any type, instead that alternative panel section includes a pair of complementary interlocking devices or protrusions876. As shown, each of the respective interlocking devices876is aligned, along the opposite side878, with a respective one of the handle support extension872positioned on the first side874, and the interlocking devices876are sized and configured so that protruding portions of the interlocking devices will respectively fit within complementary interior orifice regions of the handle support extensions872of another one of the alternative panel sections870when two such alternative panel sections are assembled.

Such an arrangement is shown inFIG. 11I, which provides a side elevation view of two of the alternative panel sections870ofFIG. 11Ipositioned adjacent to one another side-by-side (as if in a row of the panel sections). As illustrated, the interlocking devices876along the opposite side878of one of the alternative panel sections870are received within, and extend through and beneath, respective ones of the handle support extensions872positioned on the first side874of another of the alternative panel sections. Given such positioning of the interlocking devices876within the handle support extensions872, the two alternative panel sections870are interconnected with one another. Further, as with the handle support extensions780and851, the handle support extensions872again serve both as handles to facilitate carrying and moving of the alternative panel sections870, but also serve to support the adjacent alternative panel section. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 11I, the handle support extensions872receiving the interlocking devices876also extend beneath a neighboring side strut879of the alternative panel section associated with those interlocking devices.

Although the alternative panel section870shown inFIGS. 11H and 11Iis one example of an alternative panel section employing the handle support extensions872that are flat, the alternative panel sections880,885,888, and892respectively shown in respectiveFIGS. 11J, 11K, 11L, and 11Mare additional examples in this regard. In contrast to the alternative panel section870, however, none of the alternative panel sections880,885,888, and892include any of the interlocking devices876. More particularly,FIG. 11Hshows a perspective view of the alternative panel section880, and shows that panel section as having only one of the handle support extensions872extending from a first side882(generally from a middle location along that side) but having no other handle support extension872extending from an opposite side883. By contrast,FIG. 11Kshows the alternative panel section885as having one of the handle support extensions872extending from a first side885and another of the handle support extensions872extending from an opposite side886,FIG. 11Lshows the alternative panel section888as having two of the handle support extensions872extending from a first side887but no handle support extensions extending from an opposite side889, andFIG. 11Mshows the alternative panel section894as having two of the handle support extensions872extending from a first side892and another two of the handle support extensions872extending from an opposite side894.

It should be appreciated that, as with the handle support extensions780of the panel section756, the pairs of the handle support extensions872extending from the first and opposite sides892and894of the alternative panel section890ofFIG. 11Mare offset from one another along the lengths of those respective sides, so as to be complementarily positioned to facilitate the positioning of multiple ones of the alternative panel sections890side-by-side. Likewise, as with the handle support extensions851of the alternative panel section856ofFIG. 11E, the handle support extensions872of the alternative panel section885ofFIG. 11Kare offset from one another along the lengths of the sides884and886so that the handle support extensions on the opposite sides are positioned complementarily. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the examples of alternative panel sections discussed above are merely examples and that numerous other variations of panel sections can be implemented in embodiments encompassed by the present disclosure.

Returning toFIG. 7and further turning toFIGS. 7A and 7B, full implementation of the suspended subsystem includes not only implementing the panel sections750onto the wire tendons230, but also involves implementation of additional components as well. To illustrate these additional components,FIG. 7Aprovides a detail view of a region961ofFIG. 7particularly focused upon a location at which several of the panel sections750of each of two neighboring rows of the panel sections751and752are supported upon an intermediate pair of the wire tendons230, namely, the wire tendons302. Further,FIG. 7Bis also provided to show the same region (region961) as shown inFIG. 7A, as that region would be seen from underneath (that is,FIG. 7Ais a top plan view of the region961whileFIG. 7Bis a bottom plan view of that region or substantially the same region).

FromFIGS. 7A and 7B, it should particularly be evident that, due to the configuration of the panel sections750and the wire tendon support extensions770, the top panel surfaces763of the panel sections do not cover over the supporting wire tendons302, but rather there is a space or gap between the top panel surfaces of the panel sections750of neighboring rows of the panel sections such as the rows751and752. Given the presence of these gaps between the top panel surfaces763of neighboring rows of the panel sections750such as the panel sections of the rows751and752, in the present embodiment additional cover structures (or deck retainers)767are provided subsequent to the implementation of the panel sections onto the wire tendons230, with one of the additional cover structures767particularly being shown inFIGS. 7A and 7B. The additional cover sections767serve to fill in the gaps between the top panel surfaces763of the panel sections750of neighboring rows of the panel sections (again, such as the rows751and752) and to cover over the pairs of wire tendons230therebetween (e.g., the pair of wire tendons302) along generally the entire lengths of those wire tendons except for locations at which suspension chains are coupled to the wire tendons by way of suspender clamps discussed further below.

In addition to this function of bridging the gaps between rows of panel sections, in the present embodiment the additional cover sections767also serve to retain the panel sections750in position relative to the pairs of wire tendons230. This is possible because, as illustrated particularly inFIGS. 7A and 7B, the additional cover sections have widths that are greater than the gaps between the rows of panel sections such that outer edges899of the additional cover sections actually extend over edge portions of the panel sections (FIG. 7Bshows the outer edges899in phantom). Additionally, as illustrated inFIGS. 7A, 7B, as well asFIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, 18, 19, and 20discussed further below, the additional cover sections767in the present embodiment are themselves coupled tightly to the wire tendons230by way of additional components.

More particularly, in the present embodiment, the additional cover sections767includes a pair of bolt holes950by which the additional cover sections767can be bolted to a pair of deck retainer clamps (or rotating cable clamps)769.FIG. 18shows a perspective view of one of the additional cover sections767and particularly shows the bolt holes950.FIGS. 17A, 17B, 17C, and 17D, respectively, show a perspective side view, top plan view, side elevation view, and end elevation view of an example one of the deck retainer clamps769. As shown, the deck retainer clamp769includes a main outer shell952having a roof954and first and second side walls956and957respectively extending downwards from each of two sides of the roof, respectively. Also, the deck retainer clamp769includes a flat internal compression structure958that includes two ear extensions960that respectively fit into two complementary slots962formed near the bottom edges of each of the two side walls956,957. Although generally complementary, the complementary slots962are slightly larger than the ear extensions960, particularly in a vertical direction. Consequently, when the flat internal compression structure958is positioned within an internal channel964between the side walls956and957of the main outer shell952such that the ear extensions960extend within the complementary slots962, the flat internal compression structure958can move vertically upward and downward relative to the main outer shell952.

In addition to the above-mentioned features, the first side wall956of the main outer shell952has first and second wire receiving indentations966and967, respectively, and the second side wall957has third and fourth wire receiving indentations968and969, respectively. As shown, all of the wire receiving indentations966,967,968, and969are generally located at a vertical level that is substantially the same, but slightly higher, than the complementary slots. Also, the first and second wire receiving indentations966and967are located respectively at generally opposite ends of the first side wall956, and the third and fourth wire receiving indentations968and969are located respectively at generally opposite ends of the second side wall957. As will be discussed further below, the first and third indentations966and968, respectively, share in common a first shape that includes an elongated indented portion970, and are respectively located at respectively opposite ends of the first and second side walls956and957, respectively. By comparison, the second and fourth indentations967and969, respectively, share in common a second shape that lacks the elongated indented portion, and are located at respectively opposite ends of the first and second side walls956and957, respectively. Additionally, it will be appreciated that the roof954of the main outer shell952includes an orifice971and the flat internal compression structure958also includes snap-in cage nut having a threaded internal orifice972that is generally aligned with the orifice971when the ear extensions960are within the complementary slots962.

Turning toFIG. 20, an exploded perspective, partly cutaway view is provided of the deck retainer clamp769in relation to each of the additional cover section767ofFIG. 18, an additional retainer bracket980, a retaining bolt982, and the pair of wire tendons302.FIG. 20particularly indicates how the deck retainer clamp769can be positioned onto the pair of wire tendons302and, once so positioned, be clamped to those wire tendons and additionally to the additional cover section767ofFIG. 18and to the further retainer bracket980, a perspective view of which is also shown inFIG. 19, simply by way of the bolt982. More particularly, it can be appreciated that the deck retainer clamp769first can be positioned onto the wire tendons980by first positioning the deck retainer clamp generally in between the wire tendons so that the channel964is generally aligned with the lengths of the wire tendons, and then rotating the deck retainer clamp in a direction indicated by an arrow984so that the wire tendons are fit into the first, second, third, and fourth wire receiving indentations966,967,968, and969. It will be appreciated that this process of rotating the deck retainer clamp769into position in this regard is facilitated by the elongated indented portions970of the first and third wire receiving indentations966and968.

Additionally, with the deck retainer clamp769positioned onto the wire tendons302, then the additional cover section767is positioned so that one of the bolt holes950is over the orifice971and particularly aligned with the threaded internal orifice972. Further, the retainer bracket980, which in the present embodiment is an L-shaped bracket having two orifices985that are located respectively on each of a horizontal wall portion986and a vertical wall portion988of the bracket, is aligned so that the orifice985on the horizontal wall portion986is also aligned with the threaded internal orifice972. With all of these components so aligned and positioned so that the additional cover section767is atop the roof954and the horizontal wall portion986is atop the additional cover section, then the bolt982can be inserted through the orifice985, bolt hole950, orifice971and into the threaded internal orifice972. Rotational tightening of the bolt982then has the effect of rotating the cage nut within which the threaded internal orifice972is formed, thus causing the flat internal compression structure958to move upwards relative to the shell952so as to compress the wire tendons302between that flat internal compression structure and the upper surfaces of the indentations966,967,968, and969. As this occurs, the retainer bracket980is compressed against the deck retainer clamp769with the additional cover section767sandwiched in between, such that ultimately all of the retainer bracket, additional cover section, and the deck retainer clamp are fixedly coupled to the wire tendons302in a robust manner.

With respect to the retainer bracket980in particular, it should be appreciated such retainer brackets are only optional with respect to the implementation of any given one of the deck retainer clamps769and additional cover sections767. The retainer brackets980can particularly be provided in areas where it is desired to fixedly mount other structures in relation to (or as part of) the wire tendons230and/or the panel structures750, for example, to mount guard rails. That said, it should be evident fromFIGS. 7A and 7Bthat, in the embodiment shown there, no retainer brackets are present. Rather, as illustrated byFIG. 7B, only the additional cover section767is affixed to the deck retainer clamp769, which is particularly shown inFIG. 7B. Nevertheless, it should be particularly evident fromFIGS. 7A and 7Bthat, thanks to the fixed coupling of the additional cover section767to the deck retainer clamp769and the fixed coupling of both of those structures to the wire tendons302by way of the bolt982, the additional cover section767because of its edges899overlapping the panel sections serves not only to fill in the gap between the neighboring rows of the panel sections but also further serves to secure the panel sections in relation to the wire tendons302.

Referring still toFIGS. 7, 7A, and 7B, and also referring now toFIG. 12, in the present embodiment the further implemented suspended subsystem720also includes, in addition to the pairs of wire tendons230and the panel structures750supported thereon (plus the cover sections such as the cover section767positioned in between the rows of panel sections), suspension chains790that are coupled between the underside of the deck222of the suspension bridge100and the pairs of wire tendons230at various locations along the lengths of the wire tendons. The suspension chains790can be periodically spaced along the lengths of each of the pairs of the wire tendons230, and the number of such suspension chains can vary depending upon the circumstances or embodiment.FIG. 12shows particularly two of the suspension chains that have been positioned along at least the fourth pair of wire tendons304, upon which are supported the third and fourth rows of the panel sections753and754that are fully complete in that each of those rows (unlike the other rows751,755,756,757, and758) include panel sections750that have been implemented along the entire length of the fourth pair of wire tendons304.

It should be appreciated that, although not clearly apparent fromFIG. 12, one or more of the suspension chains790are provided in relation to each of the pairs of wire tendons230(e.g., in relation to each of the wire tendon pairs301,302,303,304,305,306,307,308, and309in the example ofFIG. 7). Each of the suspension chains790along a particular pair of the wire tendons230is installed typically only when a sufficient number of the panel sections750have been installed onto that pair of wire tendons so as to allow work personnel to walk out to the respective location at which the respective suspension chain is to be attached. Although the number of the suspension chains790along each of the pairs of wire tendons230can be the same and the relative spacing of the suspension chains790along each of the pairs of wire tendons are identical in the present embodiment, this need not be the case in all embodiments. For example, in another alternate embodiment, it is possible that suspension chains790will be provided with a first spacing frequency along the length of one pair of the wire tendons and provided with a different spacing frequency along the length of another pair of the wire tendons.

Further as shown, in order to couple the suspension chains790to the pairs of wire tendons230, in the present embodiment, suspender clamps800are employed, one of which is shown in each ofFIGS. 7A and 7Band others of which are shown inFIG. 12. Referring further toFIGS. 13 and 14in this regard, an exploded perspective side view of one of the suspender clamps800and a top plan view of the suspender clamp800are shown, respectively, to illustrate particular features of the suspender clamp800. As shown, the suspender clamp800includes a top planar (or substantially planar) surface802that extends between side edges804and further includes downwardly extending bracket extensions806positioned at each of first and second ends808of the suspender clamp800. Similar to the wire tendon support extensions770of the panel sections750, the bracket extensions806each include a respective pair of indentations810that are intended to cover over and receive wire tendons of a given pair of the wire tendons230so that the claim800is positioned into place relative to the pair of wire tendons, for example as shown inFIG. 7B. Additionally, the top planar surface802has a width between the side edges804that is substantially equal to that of the additional cover structures767that, as discussed above, can be provided to extend between neighboring panel sections750of the rows of panel sections. Thus, the top planar surfaces802of the suspender clamps800can serve a similar purpose of filling in the gaps between neighboring panel sections of neighboring rows of panel sections, particularly at the locations along the pairs of wire tendons230at which the suspender clamps are positioned.

Further as shown, the suspender clamp800includes a main body801having a top handle portion812that includes a planar portion814that overlays the top planar surface802along much of that surface and further includes two upwardly extending handle portions816that extend upward from the planar portion814diagonally upwards, that is, both upwards away from the top planar surface802and generally outwards toward the respective side edges804of the suspender clamp800. Each of the handle portions816includes a respective slot818by which work personnel implementing the suspender clamp800can grasp the suspender clamp. Further as shown, the top planar surface802as well as the planar portion814include three additional holes or orifices, namely, first and second end orifices820that are circular and an intermediate orifice822that is oblong. The end orifices820are respectively positioned proximate opposite ends of the intermediate orifice822, in between those respective opposite ends of the intermediate orifice822and outer end tips824of the planar portion814. Further, additional orifices826that are also circular and of smaller diameter than the orifices820are positioned proximate the bracket extensions806of the top planar surface802. Each of the additional orifices826is positioned generally to the side of a respective one of the outer end tips824of the planar portion814.

The intermediate orifice822as shown includes a central region821, end slot regions823, and intermediate transverse slot regions825that allow the intermediate orifice to serve as an attachment feature by which one (or potentially more than one) of the suspension chains790can be attached to the suspender clamp800. Although not shown in detail inFIGS. 13 and 14, it should be understood that one of the suspension chains790can be attached by inserting a free end of the suspension chain through the central region821of the intermediate orifice822and then sliding the suspension chain over and into one of the end slot regions823. Once the suspension chain790is placed within one of the end slot regions823, a suspension chain retainer pin (not shown) is placed in that one of the transverse slot regions825that is adjacent that end slot region so that the suspension chain790is kept retained in that end slot region. The suspension chain790and intermediate orifice822(and particularly the end slot regions823) are sized and configured so that, upon proper placement of the retainer pin within the appropriate transverse slot region, the suspension chain is effectively locked to the main body801of the suspender clamp800and is unable to slip, vertically or horizontally, from its position in the end slot region823. This locking system effectively fixes the suspender clamp800to the suspension chain790. Additionally, in some embodiments, an additional “zip tie” or other tag type structure may be placed between a hole in the retainer pin and an adjacent portion of the suspension chain790to provide a visual aid to the installer to ensure that the retainer pin has been installed.

In contrast to the intermediate orifice822, the orifices820and826allow for assembly of first and second grasping portions (or clasp portions)830to the main body801of the suspender clamp800in a manner that allows the suspender clamp to grasp the wire tendons of a pair of the wire tendons230and lock the suspender clamp in relation to those wire tendons such that tension force provided by the suspension chain790can be applied to the wire tendons and hold those wire tendons in place relative to the deck222. More particularly as shown, each of the grasping portions830includes a central post832that extends upward from a central location836along a horizontally extending portion834that extends outward in opposite directions from that central location. Further as illustrated, each of the grasping portions830also includes an additional post838that is offset radially from the central location836and central post832and that has a smaller diameter than the central post. More particularly as shown, the location of the additional post838is still relatively close to the central post832by comparison with how close ends840of the horizontally extending portion834are located relative to the central post832, but also is offset from a central axis842(that is, shifted to the side of that central axis842) extending between the ends840.

Implementation of the suspender clamp800in relation to a pair of the wire tendons230proceeds by first inserting the respective central posts832of the two respective grasping portions830into the respective end orifices820of the main body801from underneath the main body, with both of the grasping portions rotated so as to be axially aligned with the central axis842, such that the grasping portions are in starting orientations843as shown inFIG. 14. Once the central posts832are inserted through the end orifices820, the central posts832are coupled to the main body801by way of nuts844so as to retain the grasping portions830in relation to the main body801. With the grasping portions830oriented in this manner, it is then possible to install the suspender clamp800(to which a suspension wire790can already have been coupled as discussed above) onto the pair of wire tendons230, so that the wire tendons230proceed into the indentations810. Alignment of both of the grasping portions830in the starting orientations843aligned with the central axis842allows for the grasping portions to be slipped initially in between the wire tendons of the given pair of wire tendons.

Once the suspender clamp800is in position relative to the pair of wire tendons230as discussed above, then the grasping portions830are further rotated ninety degrees)(90°, in the present example in a clockwise manner as indicated by arrows846, until the additional posts838(and particularly tips/heads thereof) become aligned with the additional orifices826. This rotation can be accomplished by way of torque bolts. Once this has occurred, the nuts844can be further tightened so as to cause the grasping portions830to move upward towards the main body801and grasp fixedly the pair of wire tendons230extending between the grasping portions and the main body. Indentations848formed along upper side edges of the horizontally extending section840of each of the grasping portions830further enables the wire tendons to be grasped in this manner.

As will be appreciated, the suspension chains790by virtue of the suspender clamps800serve to provide extra support to the further implemented suspended subsystem720at locations in between the portions132and134of the support subsystem130(e.g., the two portions located respectively at the two towers140) to which the ends of the further implemented suspended subsystem720and wire tendons230thereof are coupled. Such extra support helps to keep the support subsystem130flat (or substantially flat) along its length, and to eliminate or reduce undulation occurring along its length. Additionally it should be appreciated, particularly with reference toFIG. 7B, that the suspender clamps800with the grasping portions830(and horizontally extending portions834thereof) also serve a purpose similar to that of the additional cover structures767in terms of helping to retain in position the panel sections750. As is evident fromFIG. 7B, when implemented in relation to one of the suspender clamps800, the panel sections750extend beneath the side edges804of the top planar surface802of the suspender clamp. Also as shown inFIG. 7B, in addition to the panel sections750extending beneath the side edges804of the suspender clamp800, the grasping portions830(and horizontally extending portions834thereof) of the suspender clamp800when rotated into position also are positioned so that the panel sections750(and particularly the end struts764thereof) are situated in between the ends840of the horizontally extending portions834and the side edges804. Thus, the horizontally extending portions834further serve to assist with retaining in place the panel sections750.

It should be noted that, although the embodiment of work platform system shown inFIGS. 1, 3, 7, etc. is a system in which the suspended subsystem is intended to extend not only generally horizontally between the portions132,134of the support subsystem130but also generally linearly due to the fact that the suspension bridge100itself is a linear structure, it is envisioned that other embodiments of the work platform system can or will need for a suspended subsystem to be implemented in manners that are nonlinear, for example, in a curving manner as illustrated schematically by a suspended subsystem995shown inFIG. 21. Nonlinear implementations of this type can raise special implementation concerns because, as illustrated inFIG. 21for example, although panel sections from different rows may at certain locations be aligned or “in phase”, for example, as shown at a location997, at other locations such as a location999the panel sections may no longer be aligned or be “in phase”. Although this in and of itself may not always pose a difficulty, difficulties can arise particularly when out of phase panel sections make it difficult to fit in desired suspender clamps800to allow for desired suspension chains790to be installed. Nevertheless, such difficulties can be alleviated through the use of panel sections of differing sizes that allow for reestablishment of alignment among the panel sections of different rows. For example, realignment between the rows of panel sections at the location997ofFIG. 21can be achieved by introducing a row panel in one of the rows that is half of the length of the standard-size row panel being utilized otherwise.

From the above discussion, it should be appreciated that the further implemented suspended system720ofFIGS. 7 and 12, as with respect to the suspended system120ofFIGS. 1 and 3, is in a partially completed form. That is, although some of the panels sections750, suspension chains790, suspender clamps800, and cover sections767are shown to be implemented in relation toFIGS. 7 and 12, there nevertheless remain regions along the pairs of wire tendons230at which panel sections and other components mentioned above are not yet installed. More particularly, even thoughFIG. 7suggests that the rows of panel sections753and754may be fully complete rows of the panel sections750that extend the full length of the pair of wire tendons304in between those rows of panel sections, as shown the other rows of panels751,752,755,756,757, and758still require the installation of additional panel sections750.

Nevertheless from the above description, it can be appreciated fromFIGS. 7 and 12that, upon the addition of further ones of the panel sections750, cover sections767, suspension chains790, and suspender clamps800along the entire lengths of all of the pairs of wire tendons230, the further implemented suspended subsystem720will eventually be modified to attain a fully implemented state. More particularly, as shown inFIG. 15, completion of this process will result in a fully implemented work platform system860provided on suspension bridge100as shown, where the fully implemented work platform system not only includes the two portions132and134of the support subsystem130that are mounted on the two towers140of the suspension bridge (as already discussed with reference toFIG. 7), but also includes a fully implemented suspended subsystem880extending between those two portions of that support subsystem, where the fully implemented suspended subsystem880includes multiple ones of the suspension chains790along its length that are coupled to the deck222of the suspension bridge.

More particularly in this regard, it should be evident from the discussion provided in relation toFIGS. 7, 7A, 7B, and 12that the further implemented suspended subsystem720can be modified to attain the fully implemented suspended subsystem880particularly by (a) positioning additional ones of the panel sections750along the entire lengths of the pairs of wire tendons230so that each of the rows751,752,753,754,755,756,757, and758includes a full set of the panel sections extending all or substantially all of the distance between the two portions132and134of the support subsystem130mounted on the two towers140, (b) coupling sufficient or appropriate numbers of the suspension chains790between the deck222of the suspension bridge100and the wire tendons230by way of associated ones of the suspender clamps800, which also serve to retain in place the panel sections750relative to the wire tendons230, and (c) providing additional cover structures767between the rows of panel sections751,752,753,754,755,756,757, and758to eliminate any gaps existing between those rows that exist notwithstanding the presence of the suspender clamps800, and to serve to retain the panel sections750in place relative to the wire tendons230.

To further illustrate steps of implementation/installation/erection of the fully implemented work platform system860ofFIG. 15, a flowchart900is further provided inFIG. 16, the flowchart illustrating such steps in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be understood that the steps of the flowchart900generally correspond to the description already provided above relating toFIGS. 1-15.

As shown, upon the process commencing at a start step902, the process first involves a step904of assembling/installing a support subsystem such as the support subsystem130. The step904includes performing of a first substep906that involves assembling and securing a first portion of the support subsystem (e.g., the first portion132) at one end of the structure, and another substep908that involves assembling and securing a second portion of the support subsystem (e.g., the second portion134) at another end of the structure. In the substeps906and908, it will be understood that installation and securing of the respective portions of the support subsystem includes the implementation of any appropriate suspension, anchoring, and/or bracing structures as needed and, additionally, that such installation and securing occurs at a desired elevation or height (e.g., a desired distance above ground level).

In accordance with at least some embodiments, a substep910is also performed that includes providing and installing structures, such as adaptor brackets (not shown) to each of the support subsystem portions (for example, at leading edges of the support subsystem portions), with this substep serving to ready or configure the respective support subsystem portions to be connected to flexible elements such as the pairs of wire tendons230discussed above. Next, in a step912, the flexible elements (again, e.g., the pairs of wire tendons230) are secured to the respective portions of the support subsystem, such as by way of the adapter brackets previously mentioned. Attachment of these flexible elements typically will also establish multiple rows between the flexible elements (e.g., between the different pairs of wire tendons). Attachment of the flexible elements begins the installation of the suspended subsystem as discussed above, which ultimately results in the implementation of a fully implemented suspended subsystem such as the fully implemented suspended subsystem880and thus, viewed in combination with the support subsystem130, implementation of a fully implemented work platform system such as the fully implemented work platform system860mentioned above.

Upon the flexible elements being attached, then the process advances to a step914that involves installing panel sections such as the panel sections750. The step914includes several substeps916,918,920,922, and924as shown. The substep916is initially performed as one starts installation of the panel sections at one end of structure, e.g., at the first portion132discussed above. This substep involves placing a plurality of the panel sections on a plurality of the flexible elements and securing the panel sections to a portion of the support subsystem130(again, e.g., the first portion132) and can involve the implementation of specialized panel structures or other structures that allow for a smooth transition (e.g., a smooth floor surface) to be maintained as one proceeds from the support subsystem to the suspended subsystem.

Next, at the substep918, the process includes placing subsequent or additional ones of the panel sections750on a plurality of the flexible elements and securing such subsequent or additional panel sections to the respective previous panel sections using handle support extensions such as the handle support extensions780discussed above. This step is typically performed with respect to each of the rows of the suspended subsystem as established by the different flexible elements. Further, this step of placing and securing the panel sections750in at least some embodiments can involve positioning and lowering of panel sections in a particular manner. For example, positioning and lowering of a panel section can be performed entirely by hand by work personnel, or by way of machinery, and/or involve an extension connector such as a lanyard. In the case where a lanyard or similar ropelike connector was utilized, such connector would be attached to the handle support extensions tending to rotate away from the work personnel during installation of the panel section (e.g., the handle support extensions that would be at the top of the additional panel section790if it was shown inFIG. 11A) and, by way of holding the unattached end of the lanyard, the work personnel could lower the panel section in a controlled manner.

Further, at the substep920, deck retainer clamp structures such as the deck retainer clamps769are installed in relation to the flexible elements, typically at desired, predetermined and/or specified locations along the flexible elements. Although shown as occurring sequentially after the substep918, it is contemplated that the substep920can take place generally as the panel sections750are placed on the plurality of flexible elements in accordance with the substep918. Additionally, at the step922, deck retainer structures (e.g., the additional cover structures767) are installed and secured to the deck retainer clamp structures using retaining or connecting structures (e.g., bolts such as the bolt982). This substep922also can take place generally as the panel sections750are placed on the plurality of flexible elements. Finally, as indicated by the substep924, in some embodiments a guard railing system also is installed with respect to the panel sections750and it is contemplated that this substep too can take place generally as panel sections750are placed on the plurality of flexible elements. The guard railing system can be implemented by attachment of guard rail structures to a variety of other structures including, for example, retainer brackets such as the bracket980or features such as the orifices781associated with the panel sections.

Next, as represented by a step926, installing of platform suspension structures takes place, and this includes substeps928,930, and932as shown. Although shown in the flowchart900ofFIG. 16as occurring subsequent to the installing of the panel sections in accordance with the step and substeps914,916,918,920,922, and924, in other embodiments the step926and associated substeps928,930, and932can occur substantially contemporaneously with the step and substeps914,916,918,920,922, and924. As indicated, the substep928involves installing and securing suspender bracket structures, such as the suspender clamps800, to the flexible elements (again, e.g., the wire tendons230) at desired, predetermined and/or specified locations. Next, the substep930is performed, which includes installing and securing suspension structures (e.g., the suspension chains790) to beam clamps or other portions/members of the structure in relation to which the work platform system is being implemented (e.g. to locations along the deck222of the suspension bridge100) at desired, predetermined and/or specified locations along the structure.

Then, at the further substep932, adjustment (e.g., raising or lowering) of the elevation of the panel sections750(connected to the flexible elements) and additionally securing (for example, using a chain retaining structure as previously described) of the suspension structures to the suspender bracket structures are performed. For example, one or more of the suspension wires790can be attached to the suspender clamp(s)800by way of the intermediate orifice(s)822thereof such that tension is applied to the clamp(s) and thus to the flexible elements. It should be noted that tools, such as a suspender adjustment tool, can be used to adjust or accomplish elevation adjustment. Additionally, it should also be noted that the process of installing the suspender bracket structures such as the suspender clamps800at the substep928can particularly involve positioning the suspender clamps onto the flexible elements and then rotating and tightening the grasping portions830so as to affix the clamp(s) to the flexible elements (and also so that the ends of panel sections750are locked in place between the grasping portions830and the top planar surfaces802of the suspender clamps). Depending upon the embodiment, the suspension wire(s) can alternatively be coupled to the clamp(s)800prior to the grasping portion(s)830being rotated and locked in place relative to the flexible elements.

If at the step936it is determined that the installation of panel sections750is not complete with respect to any one or more of the rows of panel sections, the steps and substeps associated with installation of the panel sections750and platform suspension structures continues are repeated, by returning to step914. It should be noted that, in this circumstance, upon repeating the substeps associated with the step914in particular, the substep916typically would no longer be applicable and would be skipped (since implementation of the panel sections would typically no longer be occurring right at the junction between the support subsystem and the flexible elements). Accordingly, the steps and substeps914-936are generally repeated until the other end of the structure (e.g., the second portion134) is reached. That said, upon it being determined at the step936that the installation of panel sections750is complete with respect to all of the rows, the panel sections will be finally secured (e.g., using an adaptor bracket structure), at step938, at the second portion of the support subsystem (e.g., the portion134), and then the process concludes at the step940. It should be appreciated that, although the flowchart900envisions that installation is complete when a far end of the suspended subsystem (e.g., at the portion134) has been reached, completion also could be achieved, in other embodiments, by reaching some other location or attaining some other level of implementation.

It should be appreciated that the work platform assembly, subsystems, and components thereof, and methods of implementation/installation and utilization relating thereto that are described above are advantageous in one or more respects depending upon the embodiment. For example, the intermeshing handle support extensions830allow not only for supporting the panel sections750but also allow adjacent panel sections to be linked to one another and to provide support for and self-brace one another (e.g., the handle support extensions830of one panel section extending beneath the side strut of an adjacent panel section help to provide further support for that adjacent panel section). Indeed, the handle support extensions830facilitate keeping the top panel surfaces of adjacent ones of the panel sections substantially aligned with minimal changes in elevation of the top panel surfaces of neighboring panel sections relative to one another. The panel sections750also are easy for stacking and shipping.

Also, through the use of appropriately-positioned ones of the suspension wires790, the overall working surface (e.g., the surface on which work personnel walk) provided by the work platform system is substantially flat. Further, through the use of pairs of tendons, rather than single tendons, extending between the support subsystem (platforms) and supporting the panel sections, significant redundancy is built into the work platform system. Additionally, numerous components of the work platform system are modular and/or interchangeable, and/or can be reused again and again in relation to the implementation of new work platform systems in relation to additional structures.

It should also be appreciated that the work platform assembly, subsystems, and components thereof, and methods of implementation/installation and utilization relating thereto that are described above are only intended as examples, and the present disclosure is intended to encompass numerous variations of the above-described concepts. For example, a variety of panel sections of different sizes and shapes can be employed depending upon the embodiment and, indeed, in some embodiments, panel sections of different sizes and shapes are implemented together in a single work platform system. The use of panel sections of different widths and/or lengths can also be appropriate depending upon the circumstance. For example, in some embodiments or circumstances, panel sections having different sizes in terms of the width dimension discussed above (e.g., the width dimension759ofFIG. 8) extending between different pairs of the wire tendons can be appropriate for different rows, to accommodate variable spacing of the wire tendons of different pairs of those wire tendons. This can be appropriate, further for example, to accommodate variable spacing between different ones of the hubs of310of the support system to which the wire tendons at their ends are attached.

Also, in some embodiments or circumstances, panel sections having different sizes in terms of the length dimension discussed above (e.g., the length dimension761ofFIG. 8) can be provided. The use of panel sections having different lengths allows for the overall work platform system to be advantageously implemented as necessary in view of the environment and other circumstances. For example, the use of panel sections of different lengths allows the panel sections to more closely be fit to obstacles (e.g., a pipe sticking from a bridge structure), curve platform fit contoured structures, or provide an ability to space wire tendon support extensions (which also can be referred to as tendon hooks)770in a manner that facilitates the installation of suspender clamps800(which also can be referred to as suspender clamps). Further, in some embodiments, any of a variety of different numbers and types of handle support extensions (or simply interlocking handles) can be employed for interlocking or linking any two or more of the panel sections, and the handle support extensions need not be identical in number, size, or shape to the handle support extensions780shown inFIG. 8.

The use of handle support extensions can provide numerous functions including, for example: (a) securing panel sections together during assembly so that the panel sections do not slide apart from one another; (b) improving of the ease of platform assembly, insofar as the handle support extensions provide guidance and support for panel sections during assembly and disassembly; (c) increasing panel section stiffness by virtue of allowing for the transfer of loads from one panel section to another panel section; (d) minimizing the degree to which neighboring panel sections have surfaces that are not aligned (e.g., eliminating steps between neighboring panels and enhancing the degree to which the various neighboring panel sections form an overall surface that is substantially flat); (e) facilitating the assembly of panel sections in applications where the work platform system is extending downhill, by preventing panel sections from sliding away before the panel sections can be secured to wire tendons/cables; and/or (f) facilitating the handling, packing and securement of panel sections prior to delivery of the panel sections to a jobsite.

As already indicated above, the particular number, size, shape, and arrangement of handle support extensions associated with a given panel section can vary depending upon the embodiment or circumstance. Although in some work platform systems all of the panel sections will have identical handle support extensions, in other embodiments, one or more panel sections can have first arrangement of one or more handle support extensions even while one or more other panels sections have another arrangement of one or more handle support extensions. Among the various possible arrangements of handle support extensions that are possible are the following, for example: (a) a first arrangement in which there is only a single handle support extension on one side of a panel section; (b) a second arrangement in which there are two or more handles on only one side of a panel section (but no handle support extensions on the other side of the panel section); (c) a third arrangement in which there is a single handle support extension (but not more than one such extension) on each side of the panel section; and (d) a fourth arrangement in which there is more than one handle support extension on both of the sides of the panel section.

It should further recognized that the present disclosure is intended to encompass handle support extensions that have any of a variety of different shapes, as well as panel sections that include not only one or more handle support extensions but also one or more other features that serve one or more of the purposes of the handle support extensions as well. For example, in some embodiments, a panel section can include a flat U shaped handle support extension that serves to support adjacent panel section (such a handle support extension would be positioned so as to extend under a side strut of a neighboring panel section). Alternatively for example, in some embodiments, a panel section can include a flat U shaped handle support extension that serves to support an adjacent panel section and that also serves to receive or accept an interlocking device from the adjacent panel section.

Further for example, in some embodiments, a panel section can include a flat U shaped handle support extension that serves to support an adjacent panel section and the panel section can further include an additional feature that is configured to interlock with the adjacent panel section (or configured to receive an interlocking feature of the adjacent panel section). Additionally for example, in some embodiments, the panel section can include a U shaped handle with a 90 degree bend on one side only to secure adjacent panel sections together, as already discussed with reference toFIG. 8. And numerous other possible arrangements of handle support extensions are possible an encompassed herein as well. Also, it should be appreciated that in some alternate embodiments the support extensions referred to herein as handle support extensions need not at all be directed to (or need not primarily be directed to) serving as handles by which work personnel (or machinery) can grasp or lift or move the panel sections on which those support extensions are formed. That is, in at least some alternate embodiments, the panel sections can include one or more support extensions that are configured to allow a given panel section to provide support for and/or to be positioned in relation to (or be attached to) an adjacent panel section in a given row of panel sections (or in another arrangement of neighboring panel sections) even though such support extensions are not configured as, or employed as (or configured primarily as, or employed primarily as) handles.

Although the embodiments discussed above employ pairs of wire tendons (or other flexible linkages or elements) such as the pairs of wire tendons301,302,303,304,305,306,307,308, and309and employs wire tendon support extensions (or tendon hooks) such as the extensions770that are suited for such pairs of wire tendons insofar as the extensions have dual indentations (or notches)772that can be used to locate and support the panel sections on the pairs of wire tendons, it should be appreciated that such wire tendon support extensions can also be used in embodiments where only single tendons are situated adjacent to the panel sections (e.g., in embodiments where rows of the panel sections are situated between single wire tendons. Indeed, although it is envisioned that the use of pairs of wire tendons can be advantageous in that it can provide redundancy and greater system strength and robustness, and can facilitate balanced clamping of other structures to the wire tendons (e.g., balanced clamping of the tendons by the suspender clamps800or deck retainer clamps), nevertheless it should be appreciated that all or substantially all of the components of the fully implemented work platform system (including, for example, the suspender clamps800) also can be employed in a work platform system that only employs single tendons running in between adjacent rows of panel sections (or running adjacent to a row of panel sections).

Additionally, numerous subcomponents of the fully implemented work platform system860have particular features that offer a variety of capabilities and advantages. For example, with respect to the suspender clamps800, the handle portions816facilitate easy handling/grasping of the suspender clamp while also providing the necessary section required for strength and stiffness of the suspender clamp so that the clamp can bear suspender loads. Also for example, the deck retainer clamps (or rotating cable clamps)769facilitate fast and simple installation and securement of the deck retainer clamp (or bracket) to single or dual tendon arrangements. Further, in some embodiments, one or more of the suspender clamps or deck retainer clamps includes an indicating pin providing a visual indicator indicating whether proper assembly or implementation (e.g., proper clamping onto one or more tendons) of the suspender clamp or deck retainer clamp has been achieved. Also, in some embodiments, a visual indicator associated with the suspension clamp can facilitate fast, simple and visually verifiable securement of a suspension chain to the suspender clamp.

Further for example, it should be appreciated that each of the intermediate orifices822of the suspender clamps800, due to the presence of the pairs of end slot regions823and intermediate transverse slot regions825, serves as a dual chain slot by which the suspender clamp800can be attached not merely to one but rather to more than one (e.g., two) of the suspension chains790or other linkages or extensions or connectors. Also, each of the intermediate orifices822facilitates use of a suspender adjustor to install the suspender clamp800. Further, in some embodiments or circumstances, the intermediate orifices822can be employed to allow for the installation of wind bracing chains in relation to the suspender clamps800. Additionally, it should be appreciated with respect to the deck retainer clamps769that these clamps not only can provide connective structures by which the additional cover structures (or deck retainers)767can be affixed to the wire tendons, where the additional cover structures then further serve to prevent movement of the panel structures750away from the wire tendons (e.g., to prevent uplifting of the panel structures), but also the deck retainer clamps also provide connection structures by which retainer bracket can be secured in relation to the wire tendons, where the containment brackets are secured to the deck retainer clamps (at locations above the additional cover structures) and can further receive and support vertical and horizontal containment wire ropes.

It should further be appreciated that, although in at least some embodiments the work platform systems encompassed herein include both a suspended subsystem and a support subsystem, where the support subsystem includes components (such as the hubs310and joists330) corresponding to the QuikDeck™ suspended access system mentioned above, this need not be the case in all embodiments. Use of a support subsystem that includes components corresponding to the QuikDeck™ suspended access system can be advantageous for any of a number of reasons including, for example, that implementation of platforms in accordance with the QuikDeck™ suspended access system can serve to provide robust anchorages at multiple locations for securing the wire tendons (e.g., the pairs of wire tendons230) of the suspended subsystem. Indeed, such platforms provide a robust and stable surface that facilitates installation of the wire tendons.

However, notwithstanding these advantages of implementing a suspended subsystem in relation to support subsystems (platforms) in accordance with the QuikDeck™ suspended access system, the present disclosure nevertheless is also intended to encompass embodiments that utilize other types of support subsystems, and nothing herein should be interpreted as indicating any requirement that the QuikDeck™ suspended access system or any of the particular support subsystem components or variations described herein be employed. Indeed, the present disclosure is intended to encompass work platform systems that only include one or more suspended subsystem components or that only include what can be considered a suspended subsystem, with that suspended subsystem being directly coupled to structures of interest such as the suspension bridge100without there being present any support subsystem whatsoever.

Additionally, regardless of the particular suspended subsystem or support subsystem components that are used, numerous other variations are intended to be encompass herein as well. For example, although the fully implemented work platform assembly860only includes a single platform level, in other embodiments there can be multiple levels of platform structures. Further, in some embodiments other types of components can be also included in the work platform system. For example, in some embodiments, a railing system can be attached to one or more portions of the work platform system (e.g., one or more portions of the support and/or suspended subsystems of the work platform system). Railings of such systems can be manufactured from a variety of materials, such as chain, cable (e.g., galvanized aircraft cable), line, and the like, among other things and, in still additional embodiments, railing standards can also be used to erect a work enclosure system. For example, tarps, sheeting, or the like can be attached to railing standards to enclose work area(s) for various purposes.

The materials out of which the work platform system860or other work platform systems in other embodiments can be formed can vary depending upon the embodiment. For example, suitable materials for components of such work platform systems can include metal (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.), wood, plastic, composite, or other suitable materials. Also, such components can be made of items that are solid, corrugated, grated, smooth, or of other suitable configurations. For example, panel portions of such work platform assemblies can be made of wood sheeting, plywood, roof decking material, metal on a frame, grating, steel sheeting, and the like, among other things.

Further for example, each of the suspension chains of the suspended subsystem (e.g., the suspension chains790) and support chains of the support subsystem (e.g., the support chains220) can take the form of any of a variety of types of chains, including toothed chains, suspension wires or wire tendons, belts, or other support components depending upon the embodiment. Also, the wire tendons of the suspended system (e.g., the wire tendons of the pairs of wire tendons230) can additionally take on any of a variety of forms of wires, cables, and similar flexible extending structures. Indeed, it should be appreciated that, depending upon the embodiment or circumstance, any of a variety of types of bendable or flexible linkages or extensions or flexible machine elements (or simply flexible elements) can be employed in the roles of each and every one of the suspension chains790, support chains220, and wire tendons230, such as wire, wire rope, chain (or toothed chain), belt, or similar types of extensions or linkages or connectors.

Further in this regard, it should be noted that typically the extensions or linkages or connectors will be structures that are flexible and that have lengths along linear dimensions that are substantially greater than the widths and depths of those structures, where the widths and depths are themselves both small relative to the lengths and the widths and depths are themselves similar in size. Nevertheless, in some alternate embodiments, it is possible that the extensions or linkages or connectors can be structures having other characteristics including, for example, structures that have lengths that are substantially greater than their widths, as well as widths that are substantially greater than their depths (e.g., structures taking the form of ribbons). Also, it is possible in some cases that one or more of the extensions or linkages or connectors used as (or in place of) the suspension chains790, support chains220, and/or wire tendons230can be rigid rather than flexible.

In at least some embodiments, portions of the work platform system described herein can interface with, connect with, or interoperate with portions of conventional work platform systems. Also, in at least some embodiments, work personnel can extend, relocate, or remove components of the work platform system using only hand tools, and no mechanical tools, hoists, cranes, or other equipment is required to add to, or subtract from, existing components of the work platform system. In at least some embodiments, installation of the work platform system can be done, essentially, “in the air”. That is, the work platform system can be erected and connected together “in the air”, in a piece-by-piece order via the use of multiple pieces of lifting, or hoisting, equipment. That said, in alternate embodiments, it is possible also that one or more of the subsystems, portions, or components will be preassembled on the ground, or at a remote location, and then moved and hoisted as a pre-assembled module into the desired location.

It should also be understood that, in addition to the processes of implementation/installation and use described herein, the present disclosure is also intended to encompass other processes such as disassembly processes. For example, to the extent that a process for installing panel sections750is discussed above, and can involve a worker lowering one of the panels by of a lanyard or similar ropelike structure, disassembly can similarly involve tugging on a lanyard to raise up a previously-installed panel. In such circumstance, the lanyard would be attached to the handle support extension(s) of the panel section being removed that extend from the side strut of that panel section opposite the location of the work personnel pulling on the lanyard.

Therefore, although certain embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described in detail above, it should be understood that numerous changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims. Among other things, it should be appreciated that the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the number of constituting components, the materials thereof, the shapes thereof, the relative arrangement thereof, etc., as described above, but rather the above disclosures are simply provided as example embodiments.