TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention is directed to a hoist system and a method for collecting data on a structure.

BACKGROUND

[0002] In the past, structural building facades were accessed for assessment, data collection, cleaning, maintenance and other work by means of an abseil process. This process typically involves an abseiling user being connected to the top of the building via a harness and cabling apparatus and using the apparatus to slowly descend the faqade of the building. Suitable anchor points are required at the roof of the building that is being inspected, cleaned or maintained using the abseil process. Such anchor points, harnesses, users and cabling are required to meet various Australian Standard and WorkCover requirements (or other countries' corresponding equivalent) to allow the abseil process to be carried out.

[0003] However, this method carries a high safety risk to the abseiling user, as any errors or failure by their equipment is most likely to result in serious injury or death. Further, there are limitations on the types of equipment that are able to be safely tied to the abseiling user and the type and amount of devices that can be operated by the abseiling user, whilst still maintaining a safe position. Moreover, the abseil process is a time consuming manual process that is often delayed due to the weather conditions such as wind or rain. Further, the success of this process is highly dependent on the abseiling, assessment and data collection skills of the abseiling user.

[0004] To reduce the risk to abseiling users, a swing stage suspended scaffold system may be used, which provides a platform for a user to stand on, which usually include safety railings and various harness connection points. However, not all buildings are suitable for the use of a swing stage system, as this system does not accommodate changes to the profile of the building. Moreover, swing stage systems also require more robust support systems at the roof level to support the mass of the swing stage platform, the assessment equipment and the personnel being supported. [0005] Building maintenance units (BMUs), which are similar to swing stage, may also be used. BMUs are permanent fixtures that have usually been specifically designed to suit the particular shape and features of the building. As such, they require regular maintenance and certification from professionals to allow normal use, which can be complex and expensive.

[0006] Alternatively, a mast climber system may be used, which includes two vertical mast structures, adhered to the faqade of the building, wherein a user platform ascends and descends along the mast structures. However, use of this method damages the faqade and therefore additional repairs are required to repair the faqade at the end of the process.

[0007] The swing stage, BMU and mast climber systems all include a risk to human life as on board human control is required, and as such, these systems require significant safety assessment prior to use. Despite all the safety protocols, these systems have a high mechanical failure rate with no exit strategy for the user if there is a malfunction within the system and little ability to design for redundancy. Further, these systems also pose a risk to surrounding persons in the event of failure.

[0008] With such a high safety risk, all of the above systems are expensive to own and maintain due to the strict level of safety required to operate them. Moreover, further operating costs are incurred in setting up and maintaining the required exclusion zones at street level in order to operate the systems.

[0009] Additionally, as users are required to carry out the data collection, the success of the process relies on the skills of the user which often results in inconsistent collection of information. Further, each of these systems face further challenges for access and data collection when the buildings include roofing, guttering balconies, windows, overhangs, sections of different fa9ade gradient or sections of different construction or fa9ade material, such as concrete, timber, stone, glass etc., and other such building features.

[0010] The preferred embodiments of the present invention seek to address one or more of these disadvantages, and/or to at least provide the public with a useful alternative. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0011] In a first aspect, there is provided a hoist system for a structure, comprising; a hoist portion provided at an elevated position on the structure, said hoist portion arranged in connection with a stabilising anchor provided at a lower position relative to the hoist portion, the hoist portion being further arranged to move a carriage along a vertical face of the structure between the hoist portion and the stabilising anchor, wherein the carriage is arranged to collect data on the structure.

[0012] In an embodiment, the carriage includes one or more data collection devices.

[0013] In an embodiment, the one or more data collection devices are one or more devices selected from the group of; a thermographic imaging device, a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) device, a visual image capturing device, a wind sensor, an infrared detecting device.

[0014] In an embodiment, the one or more data collection devices collect a plurality of data sets on the structure as the carriage moves along the vertical face of the structure.

[0015] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of data sets are indexed according to a position of the carriage as it moves along the vertical face of the structure.

[0016] In an embodiment, the carriage includes a plurality of planar frame portions arranged to connect to one another.

[0017] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of planar frame portions includes at least one elongate member orthogonally arranged to connect to at least two connector members.

[0018] In an embodiment, each of the at least two connector members includes a strut member, wherein the strut member includes a connector portion at each end.

[0019] In an embodiment, each of the at least one elongate members includes two circular plates provided at each end of the at least one elongate member, each of the two circular plates being arranged to connect to the connector portion.

[0020] In an embodiment, a first of the plurality of planar frame portions connects to a second of the plurality of planar frame portions at an angle a within the range 0 degrees < a < 360 degrees.

[0021] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of planar frame portions includes at least one support strut arranged to connect to the strut member.

[0022] In an embodiment, the hoist portion comprises: a movable base; a truss, provided to the base; a boom supported by the truss and arranged to extend over the edge of the vertical face of the structure; and a lifting mechanism distally arranged with respect to the base and in connection with the truss and boom, wherein the lifting mechanism moves the carriage along a vertical face of the structure.

[0023] In an embodiment, the base includes a platform with one or more bracing struts.

[0024] In an embodiment, the base includes a plurality of wheels.

[0025] In an embodiment, the truss includes at least two A-frame members.

[0026] In an embodiment, the at least two A-frame members are joined by a rib member at a first end.

[0027] In an embodiment, the at least two A-frame members are provided to the base at a second end.

[0028] In an embodiment, each of the at least two A-frame structures include a plurality of A- frame struts.

[0029] In an embodiment, the boom includes one or more elongate members arranged to extend from the lifting mechanism to extend over the edge of the vertical face of the structure.

[0030] In an embodiment, each of the one or more elongate members includes at least two elongate members that are arranged to be telescopically extendable.

[0031] In an embodiment, the hoist portion comprises: at least two spacer portions connected together by at least two strut members, each of the at least two spacer portions being mounted to the vertical surface, wherein the at least two spacer portions support a lifting mechanism, wherein the lifting mechanism moves the carriage along a vertical face of the structure.

[0032] In an embodiment, the lifting mechanism includes at least one winch mechanism.

[0033] In an embodiment, the lifting mechanism includes at least one lifting connection provided to the carriage at a first end and provided to the at least one winch mechanism at second end.

[0034] In an embodiment, the lifting mechanism includes balancing weights proximate to the at least one winch mechanism.

[0035] In an embodiment, the stabilising anchor includes at least two stabilising connections to the hoist portion, wherein the carriage is moved along the at least two stabilising connections.

[0036] In an embodiment, the stabilising anchor includes a receptacle arranged to retain material to be sufficiently heavy to tension at least two stabilising connections.

[0037] In an embodiment, the receptacle is arranged to retain material to be sufficiently heavy to prevent at least two stabilising connections twisting relative to one another.

[0038] In an embodiment, the receptacle is arranged to retain a plurality of stabilising weights.

[0039] In an embodiment, the plurality of stabilising weights are arranged to be filled with water.

[0040] In a second aspect, there is provided a method for collecting data on a structure, the method comprising the steps of: arranging a hoist portion at an elevated position on the structure, said hoist portion being arranged in stabilising connection with a stabilising anchor; arranging the stabilising anchor at a lower position relative to the hoist portion; arranging a carriage in lifting connection with the hoist portion to move along the stabilising connection between the hoist portion and the stabilising anchor along the vertical face of the structure; and arranging the carriage to collect data on the structure.

[0041] In an embodiment, the method further comprising the step of filling a receptacle provided to the stabilising anchor with sufficient material to tension the stabilising connection.

[0042] In an embodiment, the method further comprising the step of arranging one or more data collection devices on the carriage, wherein the one or more data collection devices collect a plurality of data sets on the structure as the carriage is being moved along the vertical face of the structure.

[0043] In an embodiment, each of the plurality of data sets are indexed according to the position of the carriage along the side face of the structure.

[0044] In an embodiment, the one or more data collection devices are one or more devices selected from the group of; a thermographic imaging device, a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) device, a visual image capturing device, a wind sensor.

[0045] To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting. Where specific integers are mentioned herein, which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates; such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

[0046] As used herein the term '(s)' following a noun means the plural and/or singular form of that noun. Further, as used herein the term 'and/or' means 'and' or 'or', or where the context allows both. The invention consists in the foregoing and also envisages constructions of which the following gives examples only.

[0047] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

[0048] Furthermore, terms such as "front", "side," "end," "top," "bottom," and the like are only used to describe elements as they relate to one another, but are in no way meant to recite specific orientations of the device, to indicate or imply necessary or required orientations of the device, or to specify how the invention described herein will be used, mounted, displayed, or positioned in use.

[0049] Moreover, within the specification, the terms "joined", "connected", "fixed" and the like are used to describe the connection of one component to another. As such, the joining described may be permanent or temporary. As the embodiments described herein refer to system that provided improved transportation and handling, the connections between different components are to be interpreted as being removable connections unless stated otherwise.

[0050] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or admission or any form of suggestion that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavour to which this specification relates.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0051] The present invention is described by way of non-limiting examples within the following description and figures.

[0052] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0053] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0054] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0055] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. [0056] Figure 5 is a front view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0057] Figure 6 is a top view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0058] Figure 7 is a front view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0059] Figure 8 is a side view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0060] Figure 9 is a top view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0061] Figure 10 is a front section view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0062] Figure 11 is a front view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0063] Figure 12 is a top view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0064] Figure 13 is a front view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0065] Figure 14 is a top view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0066] Figure 15 is a top view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0067] Figure 16 is a side view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0068] Figure 17 is a side view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0069] Figure 18 is an end view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0070] Figure 19 is a top view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0071] Figure 20 is an end view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0072] Figure 21 is a side view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0073] Figure 22 is a side view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0074] Figure 23 is an end view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0075] Figure 24 is a top view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0076] Figure 25 is a side view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. [0077] Figure 26 is an end view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0078] Figure 27 is a top view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0079] Figure 28 is a side view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0080] Figure 29 is an end view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0081] Figure 30 is a side view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0082] Figure 31 is a front view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0083] Figure 32 is a front view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0084] Figure 33 is a top view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0085] Figure 34 is an end view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0086] Figure 35 is a side view of a hoist system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION

[0087] In broad terms, the present invention provides a hoist system and method. Within the broader inventive concept, the various embodiments of the hoist system and method are described and defined below. Moreover, within the description and figures, reference to like numbers denotes like features.

[0088] Referring to Figures 1 to 35, an embodiment is provided including a hoist system 100 for a structure 102. The hoist system 100 may comprise a hoist portion 104 provided at an elevated position on the structure 102. For example, the hoist portion 104 may be provided on the roof 106 of the structure 102 proximate to the edge 108 of the structure 102. That is, the hoist portion 104 may be arranged at the elevated position proximate or immediately adjacent to a vertical face 110 of the structure 102. Alternatively, the hoist portion 104 may be provided to a balcony, overhanging section or any other elevated area that is suitable for the hoist portion 104 to be arranged at or proximate to the vertical surface 110 of the structure 102.

[0089] Within the specification, the term structure 102 refers to a building or other edifice with at least one substantially vertical face, surface or fa9ade. Accordingly, a structure may include any number of vertical faces. The vertical face of the structure may be a continuous surface, such as but not limited to the glass exterior or walls of an office building. Alternatively, the vertical face of the structure may include any number and/or combinations of various building features, such as but not limited to roofing, guttering balconies, windows, overhangs, sections of different fa ade gradient or sections of different construction or fa9ade material, such as concrete, timber, stone, glass etc., and other such building features.

[0090] The hoist system 100 may include a stabilising anchor 112 that is arranged in connection with the hoist portion 104. The stabilising anchor 112 may be arranged at a lower position relative to the hoist portion 104. For example, the hoist portion 104 may be positioned on the roof 106 of the structure 102 and the stabilising anchor 112 may be provided on ground level 114 proximate to the vertical face 110 of the structure 102. The hoist system 100 may further include a carriage 116, where the hoist portion 104 may be arranged to move the carriage 116 along the vertical face 110 of the structure 102 between the hoist portion 104 and the stabilising anchor 112.

[0091] The carriage 116 may be arranged to collect data on the structure 102. In an embodiment, the carriage 116 may include one or more data collection devices 118 that are arranged to collect data on the structure. The one or more data collection devices 118 may include a range of sensors or devices capable of capturing information and data relating to the building, the environmental conditions or the surrounding area. For example, the one or more data collection devices 118 may include, but are not limited to, any one or more of a thermographic imaging device, a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) device, a visual image capturing device, and a wind sensor. In other words one or more data collection devices 118 may include all the same device or a combination of devices. A visual image capturing device may include any device that captures image data such as video images and/or still images. For example, the visual image capturing device may be a camera and/or a video camera. The resolution of the images and/or video captured by the image data may range between low resolution (such as VCD resolution) and ultra-high definition (such as UHD 4K or 16K resolution).

[0092] As would be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, the one or more data collecting devices 118 may further include other data capturing or diagnostic devices capable of collecting data on the building, environmental conditions or the surrounding area. For example, a rain and/or wind sensor for determining current weather conditions or the wind dynamics of the structure, a building moisture or humidity sensor for detecting building moisture, radiation and/or heat sensor for detection or radiation or heat leaks, a portable X-ray imaging device, infrared detecting device and/or ground penetrating radar device for identification of concrete or building faults or cracks, antennas for determining the location of electrical wires within concrete, and/or other similar sensors or diagnostic tools.

[0093] In an embodiment, each of the one or more data collection devices 118 collect a plurality of data sets on the structure 102 as the carriage 116 is moved along the vertical face 110 of the structure 102. The plurality of data sets may include captured video or image data, LIDAR point cloud data, thermal imaging data or wind strength reading or other types of data sets. Each of the plurality of data sets may be indexed according to a position of the carriage 116 as it is moved along the vertical face 110 of the structure 102. [0094] By way of a non4imiting example, the one or more data collecting devices 118 may include a digital camera device, which may be programed to photograph a section of the vertical face 110 of the surface 102 once every second. As such, the camera device collects a plurality of image data sets. As the moving speed of the carriage 116 is known, or at least measurable, the distance between each photo may be determined. As such, the position where each photo is taken may be determined, and therefore, each of the plurality of datasets can be indexed, or associated, with the location from which it was collected.

[0095] Furthermore, each of the plurality of data sets at each known position may be combined with other data sets captured by another of the one or more data collection devices 118. For example, each position associated with a photo or image may be mapped against an area or series of data points in a LIDAR point cloud data set. This combined data set may be rendered, visualised or otherwise provided as a three-dimensional (3D) model of the structure with a series of positions along the vertical face 110 of the structure 102, where each LIDAR data point or group of points corresponds with an image taken at that location. The above example is provided to assist the person skilled in the art in understanding the workings of the invention. As such, the example provided is not to be considered as limiting, as the person skilled in the art would understand that other combinations and applications of the data collected on the structure are within the scope of the invention described and defined in the claims. For example, the imaging data may be combined with the thermographic imaging data, or the LIDAR data point cloud data may be combined with the thermographic imaging data.

[0096] In an embodiment, the data sets may be stored on a data storage device (not shown) provided to the hoist system 100, where the data storage device is in connection with one, some or all of the one or more data collection devices 118. The data storage device stores the data sets collected by the one or more data collection devices 118 until the data sets are accessed and collected by an operator of the hoist system 100.

[0097] Alternatively, the one or more data collection devices 118 may transfer their data sets to another device (not shown). For example, the carriage 116 may include a data collection module (not shown), which may be connected to each of the one or more data collection devices 118. The data collection module is further arranged to transmit each of the plurality of data sets to a device under the control of the operator, such as but not limited to a computer or mobile device such as a smart phone or tablet. The transfer of the plurality of data sets may be facilitated by a wireless or a wired network connection between each of the one or more data collection devices 118, the data collection module and the operator's device. By way of a non-limiting example only, the data collection module may include a raspberry pi and a Bluetooth chip that are arranged to wirelessly transfer the data collected from the one or more data collection devices 118 to a laptop over a wireless data transfer protocol. In such an embodiment, the data may be transmitted to the operator's device in real time, which would enable real time structural analysis and diagnostics to be undertaken on the operator's device. For example, the operator may stream a live feed of the video data or review image date correlating to locations on a 3D model of the structure as the carriage 116 is moving.

[0098] The carriage 116 is arranged is such a way to enable it to be assembled to suit a variety of structures. That is, the carriage 116 may include a number of modular features that are able to create different shaped and sized carriages 116. In an embodiment, the carriage 116 may include a plurality of planar frame portions arranged to connect with one another. The plurality of connected planar frame portions are connected together to form the carriage 116, which is arranged to be moved along the vertical face 110 of the structure 102 in a direction substantially parallel to the vertical face 110. Each of the plurality of planar frame portions may be in the shape of a rectangle, square or another shape as required by the shape or features of the vertical face 110. As such, the plurality of planar frame portions may be constructed of modular components that enable various different arrangements to be constructed.

[0099] Referring to Figures 5 to 14, an example arrangement of a carriage 116 is provided wherein the carriage 116 includes a plurality of planar frame portions 120 arranged to connect with one another. Each of the plurality of planar frame portions 120 may include at least one elongate member 122 orthogonally connected to at least two connector members 124. The at least one elongate member 122 may be formed as a hollow tube of metal, metallic alloy or rigid plastic.

[0100] Referring to Figures 7 to 10, an embodiment is provided where each of the at least two connector members 124 includes a strut member 126 connected to at least one connector portion 128. The strut member 126 may include a connector portion 128 at each end. The strut member 126 may include a connector plate 130 provided to each end separated by an elongate tubular member 260. The elongate tubular member 260 may be integrally formed with each of the connector plates 130 or be connected to each of the connector plates 130 by welding (if metallic), adhesive or other known methods.

[0101] Each of the connector plates 130 is arranged to connect to a corresponding connector plate 132 provided to a first end 134 of the connector portion 128. Further, each of the connector plates 130 and the corresponding connector plates 132 may include a plurality of connector plate apertures 136. Each of the plurality of connector plate apertures 136 provided to the connector plate 130 are aligned with each of the plurality of connector plate apertures 136 provided to the corresponding connector plate 132 so that the strut member 126 and the connector portion 128 may be may be joined by means of a plurality of fasteners, such as but not limited to a bolt and nut fastener arrangement passing through both the connector plates 130 and 132.

[0102] Further, the connector portion 128 may also include a second end 138, which includes a pair of circular plate apertures 140 disposed on a flat tongue portion 142. The tongue portion 142 may be spaced apart from the first end 134 by a section of an elongate member 262. The elongate member 262 may be tubular or rectangular shaped and may be integrally formed with the connector plate 132 or be connected to each of the connector plate 132 or connected by together by welding (if metallic), adhesive or other known methods. The term "integrally formed" is taken to mean that the parts are joined together in a single integral part.

[0103] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, an embodiment is provided wherein the at least one elongate member 122 includes a circular plate 144 including a plurality of connector apertures 146. The plurality of connector apertures 146 may be arranged in pairs, each pair being disposed along a different radial axis of the circular plate 144, wherein the distance between each pair of connector apertures 146 remains constant. As such, each pair of connector apertures 146 are arranged to align with the pair of circular plate apertures 140 provided to connector portion 128, which are best shown in Figure 9. As such, the connector portion 128 and the elongate member 122 may be joined by means of a plurality of fasteners, such as but not limited to a bolt and nut fastener arrangement passing through both the flat tongue portion 142 and the circular plate 144. As would be appreciated by the skilled addressee, the arrangement of the pairs of connector apertures 146 enables the elongate members 122 to be joined in a variety of different angular arrangements relative to one another.

[0104] In an embodiment, the planar frame portion 120 may include two elongate members 122, each elongate member 122 including a pair of cross-brace mounts 148 that are arranged at distal positions along each elongate member 122. The planar frame portion 120 may also include at least one cross-brace 150, which is best shown in Figure 16, which may be arranged to extend diagonally from a cross-brace mount 148 provided to a first of the two elongate members 122 to a cross-brace mount 148 provided to a second of the two elongate members 122. Further, there is an embodiment provided wherein two cross-braces 150 may be arranged to form an "X" shape across the planar frame portion 120. The at least one cross-brace 150 may be comprised of a taut section of wire or an elongate metal strip.

[0105] Referring to Figures 5, 13 and 14, there is provided an embodiment wherein the planar frame portion 120 may include at least one support strut 152. The at least one support strut 152 may be arranged to align parallel to the at least one elongate member 122 and connect to the at least two connector members 124 provided to the planar frame portion 120. The at least one support strut 152 provides structural support to the planar frame portion 120 in order to prevent deformation, particularly in longer planar frame portions 120. The at least one support strut 152 includes a support strut connector plate 154 at each end, wherein the support strut connector plates 154 may be may be joined to the connector member 124 by means of a plurality of fasteners, such as but not limited to a bolt and nut fastener arrangement passing through apertures provided in both the support strut connector plate 154 and the strut member 126.

[0106] In an embodiment, the one or more data collection devices 118 may be connected to the carriage 116 at any position along the length of the least one elongate member 122, the strut member 126, or the at least one support strut 152. The one or more data collection devices 118 may be positioned or arranged to suit the data that they seek to collect. For example the visual image capturing device may be orientated to have an unobstructed view of the structure. The one or more data collection devices 118 may be fixed to the length of these members or struts by means of one or more mechanical fasteners, such as but not limited to screws, bolts, clamps, ties, or other similar means of permanently or removably fixing the one or more data collection devices 118 to a member or strut. For example, as shown in Figures 1 to 4, the one or more data collection devices 118 are shown positioned at four different locations along the at least two connector members, although other arrangements would be understood to be within the scope of the invention.

[0107] As would be appreciated by the person skilled in the art, the lengths of the struts and members that comprise the carriage 116 may be formed in a variety of lengths in order to form whatever shape or size carriage is required by the vertical surface 110 of the structure 102. Further, the cross-sections of the struts and members that comprise the carriage 116 may also be formed in shapes and sizes, such as but not limited to, solid or hollow circles, squares, rectangles, polygons or other such shapes.

[0108] Referring again to Figures 5 and 6, an example of a carriage arrangement is provided where in Figure 5 the carriage 116 includes two planar frame portions that are arranged along the same plane. That is, the carriage 116 may be formed as a flat panel.

[0109] Alternatively when referring to Figures 1, 15 and 16, there is provided an example of an alternative arrangement of a carriage 116 including a first planar frame portion 156, a second planar frame portion 158, a third planar frame portion 160 and fourth planar frame portion 162. The first and second planar frame portions 156 and 158 are adjacently arranged along the same plane. The third planar frame portion 160 and fourth planar frame portion 162 are arranged to perpendicular to the plane of the first and second planar frame portions 156 and 158. The third planar frame portion 160 and fourth planar frame portion 162 are arranged to connect to the ends of the two planar frame portions 156 and 158. That is, where a is the angle between the respective planar frame portions, a between the first planar frame portion 156 and a second planar portion 158 is 180 degrees. Further, a between the first planar frame portion 156 and the third planar portion 160 is 90 degrees and a between the second planar frame portion 158 and the third planar portion 162 is 90 degrees. Thus, the carriage 116 is arranged in a "U" shape in order to accommodate a series of balconies 264 provided to the vertical surface 110 of the structure 102. However, the features of the carriage 116 enable the respective planar frame portions to be connected in many other arrangements. Accordingly, a first of the plurality of planar frame portions may be connected to a second of the plurality of planar frame portions at an angle a within the range 0 degrees < a < 360. Such an arrangement enables the carriage 116 to accommodate various building features or unusual shaped facades.

[0110] Another example arrangement is provided referring again to Figure 2, wherein the vertical surface 110 again includes the series of balconies 264 provided to the structure 102. In order to accommodate the balconies 264, the carriage 116 is arranged the similar "U" shape as described in the preceding paragraph. However, for improved rigidity, the carriage 116 includes a variation where the first planar frame portion 156 and the fourth planar frame portion 162 are provided in a triangular shape, opposed to a square or rectangular shape shown previously.

[0111] Another example arrangement is provided referring again to Figure 3, wherein the vertical surface 110 includes a flat, unimpeded building faqade with a plurality of windows. In order to maximise the data collection surface area provided by the carriage 116, all the first planar frame portions are arranged along the same plane such that a for all planar frame portions is 180 degrees.

[0112] A further example arrangement is provided referring again to Figure 4, wherein the vertical surface 110 includes a chamfered vertical face 164. In order to accommodate the unusual shape of the structure, the third planar frame portion 160 is arranged relative to the first frame portion 156 so that a is approximately 135 degrees and the fourth planar frame portion 162 is arranged relative to the second frame portion 158 so that a is approximately 135 degrees. Further, a is approximately 180 degrees between the first and second planar frame portions 156 and 158. This enables the carriage 116 to move along the vertical face 110 whilst easily accommodating the chamfered edge 164.

[0113] Referring to Figures 17 to 32, various embodiments of the hoist portion 104 are provided, where the hoist portion 104 is arranged to enable the carriage to be moved up and down along the vertical surface 110 of the structure 102.

[0114] In a first embodiment, the hoist portion 104 may be a cantilevered hoist portion 104, which includes a movable base 166 and a truss 168 provided to the base 166. The hoist portion 104 may also include a boom 170 supported by the truss 168 and arranged to extend over the edge 108 of the vertical face 110 of the structure 102. Moreover, the hoist portion 104 may also include a lifting mechanism 172, which is distally arranged with respect to the edge 108 of the vertical face 110. The lifting mechanism 172 may include at least one lifting connection 174 that is supported by the truss 168 and boom 170, wherein the lifting mechanism 172 moves the carriage 116 along a vertical face 110 of the structure 102 by means of the least one lifting connection 174. Further, the hoist portion 104 may also include one or more pairs of suspension wires 195, which are joined at a first end of the boom 170 proximate to the surface 110 and joined at a second end of the boom 170 proximate to the lifting mechanism 172.

[0115] Within the specification, the term connection and connected are used with different meanings in different contexts. The term "lifting connection" refers to a connection that enables lifting or lowing the carriage 116, for example a retractable or extendable wire rope, cable or wire cable, wherein the cable is of sufficient gauge tensile strength as required to support the weight of the carriage 116. For example in reference to Figures 1 to 4, the at least one lifting connection 174 is arranged to extend between the lifting mechanism 172 and the carriage 116 and be used to supply the force to move the carriage 116.

[0116] Further, the term "stabilising connection" refers to a fixed length of wire rope, cable or wire cable, wherein the cable is of sufficient gauge tensile strength as required for the carriage 116 to travel along the length of the connection. For example in reference to Figures 1 to 4, there is provided at least two stabilising connections 176 that are arranged to extend between the lifting mechanism 172 and the stabilising anchor 112. The stabilising connection may include at least two wire ropes, cables or wire cables, wherein the stabilising connections are of sufficient gauge and tensile strength as required for the carriage 116 to travel along the length of the connection. As aforementioned, the elongate members 122 may be arranged to form a hollow tube. Accordingly, there is provided an embodiment wherein the carriage 116 includes at least two elongate members 122 that are arranged such that the two stabilising connections 176 pass through the hollow elongate members 122. This arrangement enables the carriage 116 to be moved up and down along the length of the two stabilising connections 176 when lifted by the lifting connection 174. [0117] However, the term "connected" or "connecting" is commonly used within the specification to refer to a means of joining parts together. When connecting parts of the hoist system together, for example when connecting the various components of the carriage 116, it is understood that the connections may be either temporary (removable) or fixed (permanent).

[0118] Referring to Figures 17 to 21, the base 166 may include a platform 178 with one or more bracing struts 180. The platform 178 may be planar and in the form of a square or rectangle, where the one or more bracing struts 180 may be arranged to align parallel with a pair of the sides of the platform 178. Alternatively, the one or more bracing struts 180 may also be arranged in a cross-bracing arrangement (not shown). Further, the underside of the platform 178 may include a plurality of wheels 182, such that the hoist portion 104 is movable. As the hoist portion 104 is required to be in a fixed position when in operation, the wheel may also include a lock or stop mechanism enabled by the operator to prevent the hoist portion 104 from moving whilst in use.

[0119] Referring to Figures 22 and 23, the truss 168 may include at least two A-frame members 184. Each of the at least two A-frame members 184 includes a plurality of A-frame struts 186, which extend between each of the legs of the "A" shape formed by the A-frame members 184. The A-frame struts 186 provide structural stability to the at least two A-frame members 184 and fix the arrangement of the legs of the "A" shape with respect to one another. Further, the A-frame struts 186 may also include a hinge portion that enables the legs of the A- frame members 184 to be collapsed towards one another for improved handling and transportation.

[0120] The at least two A-frame members 184 may be joined together at a first end 190 by a rib member 188. The rib member 188 may include one or more guide apertures 193 through which the two suspension wires 195 may pass when in connection with both ends of the boom 170. In an embodiment where the A-frame struts 186 include a hinge portion, the rib member 188 may be connected to the at least two A-frame members 184 in a way to enable the legs of the A-frame members 184 to be collapsed towards one another. [0121] Further, the at least two A-frame members 184 may also be provided to the base 166 at a second end 192 of the at least two A-frame members 184. In an embodiment, the end of the legs of the at least two A-frame members 184 may be arranged to sit within the raised edges of the platform or be removably connected to the base 166. Alternately, the at least two A-frame members 184 may be permanently joined to the edges of the platform 178.

[0122] The rib member 188 may further include a plurality of pulleys 194 provided to the top or bottom surface of the rib member 188. The plurality of pulleys 194 are arranged to support and guide the at least one lifting connection 174, wherein the lifting connection 174 is connected to the carriage 116 at a first end and connected to the lifting mechanism 172 at a second end. Furthermore, the plurality of pulleys 194 may also be arranged to support and guide each of the stabilising connections 176, wherein each of the stabilising connections 176 are connected to the stabilising base 112 at a first end and the hoist portion 104 at a second end. The second end of the stabilising connections 176 may be connected at the end of the boom 170 that is proximate to the lifting mechanism 172.

[0123] The arrangement described is provided to assist the person skilled in the art in understanding the workings of the invention, and accordingly, is not taken to be limiting. As such, the skilled addressee would understand that the truss 168 may include more than two A- frame members 184. For example, where additional support or a longer carriage 116 may be used, the truss 168 may include a plurality of A-frame members 184, where each of the plurality of A-frame members 184 are joined together by respective rib members 188 and bases 166, where the bases 166 would be adjacently arranged to accommodate the plurality of A-frame members 184. Alternatively, the truss 168 may include a single base 166 that is sized to accommodate the plurality of A-frame members 184.

[0124] In an embodiment, the boom 170 may include at least one elongate arm arranged to extend from the lifting mechanism 172 to over the edge 108 of the vertical face 110 of the structure 102. Referring briefly to Figures 1 to 4, the boom 108 comprises a single elongated arm that includes two rails joined by boom struts, wherein the elongated member extends over the edge 108 of the vertical face 110 of the structure 102. [0125] Alternatively, the boom 170 may include at least two elongate members. For example, referring to Figures 17, 24 to 29, an embodiment is provided wherein the boom 170 includes two elongate arms 196 arranged to extend from the lifting mechanism 172 to extend over the edge 108 of the vertical face 110 of the structure 102. The at least two elongate arms 196 may include two or more rails 198 that are supported and separated by a plurality of boom struts 200 arranged along the lengths of the two or more rails 198 and spaning the distance between them. The plurality of boom struts 200 may be arranged to be received and fixed within rail apertures 202 along the lengths of the two or more rails 198. Further, each of the aforementioned suspension wires 195 may be arranged to connect to and support the distal ends of the two or more rails 198 when arranged to form the two elongate arms 196.

[0126] In an embodiment, the at least two elongate arms 196 may be arranged to be telescopically extendable. Referring specifically to Figures 26 and 29, an end view of the at least two elongate arms 196 is provided. In Figure 26, a first interlocking telescopic profile 204 is provided. The first interlocking telescopic profile 204 of the rails 198 provides an end view of the elongate arm 196 shown in Figures 24 and 25. The first interlocking telescopic profile 204 is slidably receivable within a second interlocking telescopic profile 206 shown in Figure 29. The second interlocking telescopic profile 206 provides an end view of the rails 198 of the elongate arm 196 shown in Figures 27 and 28. As shown in Figures 17, 26 and 29, the first interlocking telescopic profile 204 includes an upper flange 208 and a lower flange 210, which is arranged to slidingly receive and engage with an upper flange 212 and a lower flange 214 provided to the second interlocking telescopic profile 206. Further, as shown in Figure 13, the boom struts 200 of the second interlocking telescopic profile 206 may relatively shorter than the boom struts 200 of the first interlocking telescopic profile 204.

[0127] Accordingly, the shape of the first interlocking telescopic profile 204 and the second interlocking telescopic profile 206 enables the at least two elongate arms 196 to sliding engage with on another such that the boom 170 may be telescopically extendable. Further, the shape of the first interlocking telescopic profile 204 and the second interlocking telescopic profile 206 enables the boom to be slidingly assembled. That is, the boom 170 may include smaller sections that enable easier transportation of the hoist portion 104 up to the roof 106 of the structure 102, in order to be assembled and used. The above example provides an arrangement including a boom 170 formed of two elongate arms 196. However, as would be understood by the person skilled in the art, the boom 170 may be comprised of more than two elongated arms 196 in cases where a longer boom may be required or where longer elongate arms 196 are unable to be transported to the roof 106 of the structure 102.

[0128] Referring again to Figure 17, there is provided an embodiment wherein the lifting mechanism 172 includes at least one winch mechanism 216, wherein a winch mechanism is a device that is used to pull in (wind up) or let out (wind out) or otherwise adjust the tension of a rope or wire rope. The at least one winch mechanism 216 may include a spool and hand crank. Alternatively, the at least one winch mechanism 216 may include any one of a gear assembly, a solenoid brake and/or a mechanical brake or ratchet and pawl device that prevents it from unwinding unless the pawl is retracted. Further, the at least one winch mechanism 216 may be powered by electric, hydraulic, pneumatic or internal combustion drives.

[0129] In an embodiment, the at least one lifting connection 174 is connected to the carriage 116 at a first end and attached to the at least one winch mechanism 216 at second end. The at least one lifting connection 174 may be connected to the carriage 116 by means of a loop arrangement with a thimble and ferrule, or a wire clamp. Alternatively or in combination with the aforementioned, a U-bolt, carabiner clip, maillon or other similar removable fastener may also be used.

[0130] In an embodiment, the lifting mechanism 172 may include a boom stand 218 and/or balancing weights 220 proximate to the at least one winch mechanism 216. The boom stand 218 and/or balancing weights 220 may be arranged to support the boom 170 in a fixed position and prevent the boom 170 from pivoting towards the carriage 116. Accordingly, the boom stand 218 and/or balancing weights 220 are arranged to balance the mass of the carriage 116. The second end of the boom may be arranged to locate between the boom stand 218 and/or balancing weights 220 and the at least one winch mechanism 216.

[0131] In another embodiment, the hoist portion 104 may be provided in an alternate arrangement as shown in Figures 30 to 32. In the alternate arrangement, the hoist portion 104 may be connected to the edge 108 of the vertical face 110 of the structure 102. The hoist portion 104 may be mounted to the edge 108 or connected to the edge 108 via existing connection points provided to the edge 108 of the structure 102.

[0132] In all embodiments, the hoist portion 104 is arranged to ensure that the carriage 116 is able to move up and down the vertical face 110 of the structure 102 between the hoist portion 104 and the stabilising anchor 112. As such, the hoist portion 104 provides an arrangement that spaces apart the carriage 116 from the vertical surface 110. Where additional clearance may be required due to wide balconies or features that protrude outwards from the vertical surface 110, or there is insufficient room on the roof for the embodiment shown in Figures 17 to 29, the alternate hoist portion 104 may be used.

[0133] Referring to Figures 30 and 31, the side view provided illustrates the hoist portion 104 as including at least one triangular shaped spacer portion 222. The spacer portion 222 includes a variety of struts that may be arranged and connected together to form the alternate hoist portion 104.

[0134] The spacer portion 222 may include a spacer strut 224 that is arranged to connect between a first end 226 of a vertical strut 228 and a second end 230 of a horizontal strut 232. A second end 234 of the vertical strut 228 is also connected to a first end 236 of the horizontal strut 232 to form the triangular shaped spacer portion 222.

[0135] The first end 226 of the vertical strut 228 may include at least one guide 238, which is arranged to retain at least one lifting connection provided to at least one winch mechanism in a similar manner to the at least one lifting connection 174 and the at least one winch mechanism 216 shown in Figure 16. The at least one guide 238 may be integrally formed with the spacer portion 222, or be attached along the spacer strut 224, at or proximate to the first end 226 of the vertical strut 228 or at or proximate to the second end 230 of the horizontal strut 232.

[0136] The spacer portion 222 may further include one or more mounting plates 240 that are arranged to mount to the vertical face 110 of the structure 102. The one or more mounting plates 240 may include a plurality of apertures that are arranged to receive fastening devices, such as screws. The fastening devices pass through the one or more mounting plates 240 and into the vertical surface 110, fixing the spacer portion 222 to the structure 102. [0137] In an embodiment, a portion of substrate 242 may be located between the vertical strut 228 and the vertical face 110 to prevent damage to the fa ade of the vertical face 110 caused by contact with the spacer portion 222. The substrate 242 may be formed of soft and/or deformable materials such as but not limited to rubber, carpet, plywood and the like. The substrate 242 may also be formed of non-homogenous thickness to compensate for any variations in the vertical surface 110 to ensure a flat and secure mounting of the spacer portion 222 to the vertical surface 110.

[0138] The spacer portion 222 may further include connector plates 244 and connector bars 246. The connector bars 244 are provided on one or both sides of the spacer portion 222 and each connector bar 244 is arranged to connect to or be integrally formed with a respective connector plate 242. Each of the connector plates 242 may be arranged to connect with each other or to the aforementioned strut members 126 to create a triangular shaped frame that forms the hoist portion 104. That is, in reference to Figure 32, a modular arrangement is provided such that each of the strut members 126 are connected to each of the triangular shaped spacer portions 222 in such a way as to form a triangular prism shaped frame that forms the hoist portion 104 that is mounted to the vertical surface 110 of the structure 102.

[0139] Further, the alternate hoist portion 104 may also include structural reinforcing. For example, the hoist portion 104 may be arranged to include at least one support strut 152 that is arranged to connect to an upper strut members 126 and a lower strut members 126 in a manner that is similar to what is shown in Figure 5.

[0140] Moreover, the alternate hoist portion 104 may also include a lifting mechanism 172 Moreover, the hoist portion 104 may also include a lifting mechanism, which is not shown in Figures 30 to 32 but is understood to include the same features as lifting mechanism 172 shown in Figure 17. That is, The lifting mechanism may include at least one lifting connection (not shown) that is supported by the at least one guide 238, wherein the lifting mechanism moves the carriage 116 along a vertical face 110 of the structure 102 by means of the least one lifting connection. [0141] Further, the lifting mechanism for the alternate hoist portion 104 may also include a at least two stabilising connections, which are not shown but are provided in the same manner as at least two stabilising connections 176. The at least two stabilising connections 176 are joined at a second end 230 of the horizontal strut 232. Further, the lifting mechanism may further include the winch including the same or equivalent features to the at least one winch mechanism 216 as described preceding paragraphs [0128] and [0129] Further, the alternate hoist portion 104 may include a lifting mechanism having include balancing weights that are located proximate to the at least one winch mechanism to ensure that the winch mechanism remains in a fixed position on the roof of the structure 102.

[0142] The example arrangement of the hoist portion 104 provided in Figure 32 is merely provided to demonstrate the workings of the invention, and the particular arrangement described is not to be taken as limiting as the skilled addressee would understand that the modularity if the features described lends itself to other arrangements that are within the scope of the invention as described and defined in the claims.

[0143] Referring again to Figures 1 to 4, the stabilising anchor 112 may include at least two anchor connections 246, which are connected to the at least two stabilising connections 176 extending to the hoist portion 104. The at least two stabilising connections 176 may be connected to the at least two anchor connections 246 using a loop arrangement with a thimble and ferrule, or a wire clamp. Further, the at least two stabilising connections 176 may also be connected to the truss 168 or boom 170 by means of a loop arrangement with a thimble and ferrule, or a wire clamp. Alternatively or in combination with the aforementioned, a U-bolt, carabiner clip, maillon or other similar removable fastener may also be used.

[0144] Referring now to Figures 33 to 35, the stabilising anchor 112 may include a receptacle 248 arranged to retain material in order to be sufficiently heavy to tension at least two anchor connections 246. Moreover, the receptacle 248 may also be arranged to retain material in order to be sufficiently heavy to prevent at least two anchor connections 246 twisting relative to one another so that the carriage 116 is stabilised. In one embodiment, the receptacle 248 includes at least three vertical walls 250, which are connected together to form the receptacle. For example, the receptacle 148 may include four walls that are arranged in a rectangular shape, or three walls arranged in a triangular shape. Alternatively, the walls 250 may be arranged in other shapes depending on the space available on the ground level 114, the shape of the vertical face 110 of the structure 102, or the shape of the carriage 116, where such shapes may include, but are not limited to parallelograms, polygons, curved arcs or other irregular shapes.

[0145] The receptacle may include a base 266, to which all the walls 250 are connected. The base 266 may be formed as a single unitary piece of material so that the receptacle has no gaps. Alternatively, to reduce the mass of the receptacle 248, the base 266 may include a plurality of ribs 268 that are spaced apart from one another, as shown in Figure 33.

[0146] In an embodiment, the receptacle 248 may be arranged to retain a plurality of stabilising weights 252, which are best shown in Figures 1 to 4. The plurality of stabilising weights 252 may include regularly shaped portions of solid material, such as but not limited to bricks, packed sand, metal weights and other similar objects. Alternatively, the plurality of stabilising weights 252 may include a series of regularly shaped water tanks, which are capable of being filled with water or other fluid. Each of the plurality of stabilising weights 252 may be manually loaded into the receptacle 248 as indicated by recesses 254 in order to tension the at least two stabilising connections 252.

[0147] In a further embodiment, the receptacle 248 may be arranged to retain a single stabilising weight (not shown). The water-fillable single or multiple stabilising weights may be arranged to include a fluid inlet duct and a fluid outlet duct. The fluid inlet duct may be connected to a nearby pressured or flowing water source directly or by means of a hose, pipe, or tap. The fluid outlet duct may include a removable plug or a tap. That is, water is arranged to flow through the fluid inlet duct and to fill the single stabilising weight until sufficiently heavy. After use, the removable plug may be removed, or tap released, in order to enable the water to empty from the single stabilising weight. As such, manual handling of the stabilising weight/s is reduced.

[0148] In yet another embodiment, the receptacle 248 may include handles 256 provided to the walls 250 of the receptacle 248 to provide improved handling of the stabilising anchor 112. The handles 256 may be welded or otherwise attached to the walls 250. Further, the receptacle 248 may include a plurality of feet 258 provided to the base 266 of the receptacle 248 to support the receptacle 248 whilst in use.

[0149] In an embodiment, a method is provided for using the hoist system 100 to collect data on a structure 102. The method includes a number of steps, which first include arranging the hoist portion 104 at an elevated position on the structure 102, such as the roof. As described above, the hoist portion 104 may include a number of features that enable the hoist portion 104 to be easily transported and moved. For example, with one embodiment including features such as the telescopic boom 170 and the plurality of wheels 182 provided to the base 166. Accordingly, the hoist portion 104 may be able to be transported using a conventional building lift.

[0150] Whilst or after the hoist portion 104 has been arranged in the desired elevated position, the stabilising anchor 112 may be arranged at a lower position relative to the hoist portion 104, such as ground level 114, wherein the hoist portion 104 is in connection with the stabilising anchor 112. That is, at least two stabilising connections 176, such as wire cables, are provided between the hoist portion 104 and the stabilising anchor 112. The at least two stabilising connections 176 may be first attached to the hoist portion 104 before lowering them over the side of the structure to be connected to the stabilising anchor 112. The at least two stabilising connections 176 may be then tightened to a sufficient tension. The stabilising connections 176 may be tensioned by means of filling the receptacle 248 provided to the stabilising anchor 112 with sufficient material to tension the at least two stabilising connections 176.

[0151] Once so arranged, the carriage 116 may be attached to the at least two stabilising connections 176 between the hoist portion 104 and the stabilising anchor 112, such that the carriage 116 is arranged to move along the stabilising connections 176 between the hoist portion 104 and the stabilising anchor 112 along the vertical face 110 of the structure 102, by means of pulleys, guides or other similar means. Alternatively, the carriage 116 may be connected to the at least two stabilising connections 176 prior to connecting them to the stabilising anchor 112 by passing the at least two stabilising connections 176 through the hollow elongate members 122. Further, the carriage 116 is attached to the hoist portion 104 via a lifting connection 174. For example the carriage 116 may be connected to a wire cable which is connected to the winch mechanism 216. Such an arrangement enables the carriage 116 to move along the stabilising connections 176, wherein the carriage is arranged to collect data on the structure 102.

[0152] The one or more data collection devices 118 may be arranged on the carriage 116, wherein the one or more data collection devices 118 collect a plurality of data sets on the structure 102 as the carriage 116 is being moved along the vertical face 110 of the structure 102. The one or more data collection devices 118 may be fixed to carriage 116 by means of one or more mechanical fasteners, such as but not limited to screws, bolts, clamps, ties, or other similar means of permanently or removably fixing the one or more data collection devices 118 to the carriage 116.

[0153] Each of the plurality of data sets may be indexed according to the position of the carriage 116 along the vertical face 110 of the structure 102, wherein the one or more data collection devices may include one or more of a thermographic imaging device, a Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) device, a visual image capturing device, and/or a wind sensor.

ADVANTAGES

[0154] The embodiments described herein provide a novel means of collecting data on a structure. In doing so, the system and method described and defined in the claims provides the following advantages.

[0155] Firstly, as the hoist system is designed to be remotely operated without an on-board operator and/or data collector, the embodiments described provide a safer system and method of collecting data on a structure as the risk of the operator and/or data collector falling out of the system is effectively zero. Further, there is no need for the data collector as the collection of data has been automated.

[0156] Moreover, as there is no need to carry any passengers, the hoist system does not include a floor or any rails, which reduces the complexity of the carriage construction and the overall weight of the system. The reduction in weight reduces cost and reduces the risk to individuals working and proximate to the area surrounding the structure. [0157] Additionally, the hoist system provides a significantly faster means of collecting structural data with a higher level of accuracy. As the data sets collected about the structure are indexed to the known position of the carriage, the location on the structure from which the data is collected is much easier to determine. Accordingly, this enables a greater level of accuracy when assessing a structure. Further, the use of LIDAR and thermographic imaging devices provides new opportunities for structural analysis and diagnostics and enables the formation of highly accurate 3D models, which assists in asset management, risk management and conveys any structural problem areas to a user at a glance.

[0158] Moreover, the hoist system is designed to be easily assembled and disassembled for transport. This greatly speeds up the time taken in setting up and dismantling the hoist systems which enables more structural assessments to be completed. The aforementioned reduction in the weight of the system enables a smaller winch to be used which also aids in making the system easier to transport. Further, the modular construction of the hoist system, particularly the carriage, enables a vast range of possible buildings to be accommodated, without the requirement for bespoke custom built BMUs permanently attached to buildings.

[0159] The increased accuracy, safety and speed provided by the embodiments described also reduce the liability of structural assessment companies and reduce the cost of obtaining a structural assessment. This in turn makes such assessments more accessible for buildings which enables for more effective assets management as the collection of more comprehensive, accurate and complete structural data enables more informed decision making by stakeholders.

[0160] Furthermore, as there is less risk to operator and surrounding human life, the use of the system would streamline the process of collecting data on a structure as there would be less risk to account for in safety procedures.