The invention pertains to folding scaffolds and more particularly to a folding scaffold with a threaded locking insert. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Scaffolding modules are known in which platforms are pivotally attached to columns by means of pivot assemblies. A pivot assembly includes a link provided with a passage through which a bolt passes thereb linking the platform to the column. The pivot access is usually spaced vertically below the platform. In some instances, the torque applied to the bolt tends to crush or collapse the tubular column which supports the platform.

OBJECT AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to substantially ameliorate the disadvantage associated with the prior art.

Accordingly, an improved locking device for folding scaffolds is provided. The locking device comprises a tubular column and a brace. The tubular column has formed therein a cylindrical insert which extends diametrically through the tube. The access of the cylindrical insert is alignable with the through access of an aperture passing through the brace. The locking device further comprises a bolt which passes through the aperture in the brace and into the insert.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a perspective view of a folding scaffold. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a locking device according to the teachings of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a perspective view of a tubular column receiving a threaded insert.

Figure 4 is a front elevation of a section of tubular column into which has been inserted a threaded cylindrical insert.

Figure 5 is a top plan view of a tubular column into which has been inserted a cylindrical insert according to the present invention. BEST MODE AND OTHER EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION As shown 1n Figure 1, a folding scaffold 10 includes a number of platforms 11 which are pivotally attached to tubular columns 12. The

locking joint 13 between the platform 11 and the column 12 is shown more clearly in Figure 2.

Figure 2 illustrates how a platform 11 is locked onto a tubular column 12. A brace 14 is rigidly attached to the platform 11. The tubula column 12 pivots about the platform 11. To lock the platform 11 with respect to the tubular column 12, a bolt 15 is inserted through an apertur 16 in the brace 14 and also through an aperture 17 in the tubular column 12. In some prior art devices, a nut threaded onto the bolt 15 would have a tendency to crush or deform the tube 12. This problem is solved with th provision of a cylindrical insert 18. While the insert can assume any of number of different shapes, a cylindrical insert is preferred. It is important that the insert be rigidly attached to the tube 12 so that stresses exerted on the insert 18 are transmitted to the tube 12 and vice versa. The insert 18 may be threaded, for direct coupling with the bolt 1 or unthreaded, in which case a nut is also provided.

As shown in Figure 3, a threaded cylindrical Insert 18 is inserted into a hole 21 formed in the tubular column 12. The front surface 22 of the insert 18 is preferably flush with the exterior 23 of the tubular column 12. The rear face 24 of the insert is also preferably flush with the exterior surface 23 of the tubular column 12.

As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the insert 18 extends diametrically across the tube 12. The insert 18 is preferably welded, braized or otherwise rigidly affixed or adhered, at both ends, to the walls of the tube 12. The benefit of the device is applicable, particular, where a smaller gauged tube is required in the manufacturing of a folding scaffold. By welding the threaded insert inside the tubular column, it strengthens the tube. When the bolt is screwed and tightened, the insert prevents the collapse of the tube. If the insert was not welded inside the tube, the pressure of the bolt on both sides of the tube would tend to collapse or bend the tube, causing it to weaken itself structurally.

While the invention has been described with reference to particular applications and details of construction, these should be understood as having been provided by way of example and not as limitations to the scope or spirit of the invention.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The invention pertains to clips and more particularly to a clip for retaining a shade cloth. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Scaffolding usually has a mesh to stop debris from falling off the scaffolding and down onto motor and pedestrian traffic below. However, this mesh does not stop dust or smaller debris like nails and pebbles fro falling into the street. In order to stop the passage of smaller debris through the mesh, a shade cloth may be superimposed over the mesh. Known methods of attaching shade cloth to mesh are time consuming and tend to damage the shade cloth.

OBJECT AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the invention to substantially ameliorate at lea some of the disadvantages of the prior art.

Accordingly, a resilient clip is provided. The clip is "U" shaped i cross-section. The side walls of the clip are concave so as to seat between adjacent columns of a scaffolding.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1A 1s a perspective view of a scaffolding incorporating both vertical columns and mesh of the prior art.

Figure 2A is a perspective view of a clip according to the teaching of the present Invention.

Figure 3A is a top plan view, partially cross-sectioned of the clip, column and shade cloth arrangement depicted in Figure 2.

BEST MODE AND OTHER EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION As shown in Figure 1A, a scaffolding 10 may comprise a plurality of platforms 11 which are supported by tubular columns 12. Adjacent scaffolding modules form pairs of adjacent tubular columns 12. A coarse screen 13 to stop debris from falling is known.

As shown in Figure 2A, the benefits of the present invention are provided by utilizing a substantially "U" shaped clip 20 to retain a shade cloth 21 between adjacent pairs 22 of tubular columns 12.

As shown in Figure 2A and 3A, the clip 20 has side walls 23 which ar generally concave. A length of nylon shade cloth 21 can be laid over the

pair of columns 22. A clip is then inserted between the two columns 12, 12. When the clip is inserted, it pushes and stretches the fabric or shade cloth 21 very tightly. The. concave sides 23 of the clip 20 press against the tubes 12, thus retaining the shade cloth or fabric 21. A particular advantage of the invention is that the shade cloth or fabric can be affixed without tying and without damaging the material. While the present invention has been described with reference to particular materials and details of construction, these should be understood has having been provided by way of example and not as limitations to the scope or spirit of the invention.