Climbing frame for small-section tall structures - has adjustable rings with clamps and lifting jacks

摘要

The climbing frame is for assembly, repair and inspection work on tall structures of relatively small cross-section and with a pressure-resistant surface. It comprises top and bottom rings (12,38) resistant to torsion and bending loads and of adjustable shape and circumference, each with two or more clamps (28) acting at right angles against the structure surface (10) at points which can be freely selected, together with lifting jacks (52). Guides are provided for sliding one of the rings, together with a drive for the clamps and jacks, manually or automatically controlled. A safety device prevents the clamps on one ring being freed unless all those on the other are acting with a predetermined pressure against the structure. A working platform (40) is fixed to the top ring. ADVANTAGE - Safe, low cost, rapidly assembled, and allows access to structure all the way round.