Field of the invention
[0001] The present invention relates to a column with adjustable length for use as a load-bearing
element in connection with the construction of buildings, and to a method of supporting
a construction.
Background of the invention
[0002] In connection with the erecting of buildings it is commonly known how to employ steel
columns as load-bearing elements. Such steel columns are most often designed as steel
tubes, which are closed off by an anchor plate at both ends for attachment of the
steel column to the floor and ceiling construction, respectively. Normally, these
steel columns are immured in hollow walls so that they are not visible when the building
has been completed.
[0003] It is a known problem in the construction industry when the calculated length of
such steel columns often does not match up with the actual dimensions in the building
structure, for example, due to shrinkage of the concrete. In these cases, the steel
column has to be replaced by another steel column which fits the actual dimensions,
this being both time-consuming and more costly to the building process.
[0004] US20060207210A1 describes a column according to the features of the preamble of claim 1.
Description of the invention
[0005] It is an object of embodiments of the invention to provide an improved column.
[0006] It is a further object of embodiments of the invention to provide a column which
overcomes the aforementioned problems of the known solutions in the industry.
[0007] It is an even further object of embodiments of the invention to provide a method
of supporting a construction.
[0008] According to a first aspect, the invention provides a column with adjustable length
for use as a load-bearing element in connection with the construction of buildings,
which column comprises an outer tube, which is closed at one end, and at the other
end there is introduced one end of an inner tube, whose outer diameter is less than
the inner diameter of the outer tube, and an adjustment and fixation mechanism for
controlling how much the inner tube can be introduced into the outer tube, and thus
the overall length of the column, the adjustment mechanism comprising one or more
cylindrical spacers and/or rings, which are arranged in the outer tube before the
inner tube is introduced therein, wherein the one or more spacers and/or rings lay
against the closed end of the outer tube and the end of the inner tube.
[0009] Such a column with adjustable length is advantageous because it can be adapted to
the actual dimensions on site, so that the situation of having to employ time and
money to produce a new column on the construction site instead of one that does not
fit may be entirely avoided.
[0010] In the context of the present invention, the term 'tube' should be understood as
an elongated element having a cross-section of an arbitrary shape, where the cross-section
is a section perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elongated tube. In
one embodiment, the tube may have a circular cross-section. In alternative embodiments,
the cross-section may be oval, square-shaped, triangular, or of any other shape.
[0011] At least a part of the outer tube is hollow to allow at least a part of the inner
tube to be inserted into the outer tube along the longitudinal direction of the tubes.
It should however, be understood, that both the inner tube and the outer tube may
be hollow elongated elements.
[0012] The outer diameter of the inner tube may be marginally less than the inner diameter
of the outer tube whereby the outer tube may fixate the inner tube when inserted into
the outer tube. Thus, the fixation mechanism may be at least partly constituted by
the inner and outer tubes when inserting the inner tube into the outer tube whereby
the inner and outer tubes overlap each other along a part of their length in the longitudinal
direction of the tubes.
[0013] By 'marginally less' should be understood, that the inner tube can be inserted into
the outer tube and can be kept in place without falling during use.
[0014] In the context of the present invention, the term 'diameter' should be understood
as the largest dimension of the cross-section of the tube. Typically, the diameter
is a straight line passing through the centre of the cross-section of the tube and
whose endpoints lie on the outer circumference of the tube.
[0015] When positioning the column in an upright position in which it can support a construction
part or construction parts, it may be an advantage if the outer tube is used as the
upper tube and the inner tube is used as the lower tube, as this eliminates or at
least considerably reduces the risk of water, such as rain or condensed water, flowing
into the tube. If the inner tube is used as the upper tube, water may flow along the
outer surface of the inner tube and into the outer tube along the inner surface of
the outer tube.
[0016] In the context of the present invention, the term 'spacers and/or rings' should be
understood as elements configured to be inserted into the outer tube to thereby keep
the upper end of the upper tube at the required distance from the upper end of the
lower tube.
[0017] By filling up the outer tube with spacers or rings and optionally a plug, which lies
against the closed end of the outer tube and the end of the inner tube, respectively,
the length of the column can be adjusted corresponding to the height of the spacers
and/or rings, as the spacers and/or rings will keep the upper end of the upper tube
at the required distance from the upper end of the lower tube. Furthermore, the load
bearing ability of the column may be increased significantly. If the column comprises
a plug, the height of the plug will add to the distance between upper end of the upper
tube and the upper end of the lower tube.
[0018] In the context of the present invention, the term 'height' of the spacers, rings,
and plug should be understood the dimension of the spacers, rings, and plug in the
longitudinal direction of the tubes.
[0019] By varying the number and/or size of the spacers/rings in the outer tube it may be
possible to vary the height of the column, and thereby adjust the height to the required
dimension in the longitudinal direction of the column.
[0020] Thus, it should be understood that the height of the column may be adjusted by varying
the number of spacers/rings; i.e. by use of one or more spacers/rings and/or the use
of spacers/rings of different height.
[0021] In the context of the present invention, the term 'circular spacers and/or rings'
should be understood as elements having a cross-sectional shape being circular, square-shaped,
oval, triangular, or any other shape. The spacers may be solid elements, whereas the
rings may be elements forming a through hole.
[0022] In the context of the present invention, the term 'closed end' should be understood
as an end which may comprise an opening. Thus, the 'closed end' comprises an obstruction
ensuring that the spacers and/or rings can be retained in the outer tube when arranged
inside the outer tube. The obstruction may as an example be a plate being arranged
transverse to the longitudinal direction of the tube. The plate may comprise one or
more openings, e.g. one or more circular openings, oval openings, or openings of any
arbitrary shape. It should be understood, that there may be openings of different
shapes. In an alternative embodiment, the 'closed end' may comprise an obstruction
in the form of a cross, one or more bars, such as bars of different size or shape,
etc.
[0023] The column may comprise a plug for closing the one end of the inner tube which is
to be inserted into the outer tube. Thus, the overall height of the spacers/rings
and the plug may correspond to the space between the closed end of the outer tube
and the end of the inner tube configured for insertion into the outer tube thereby
adjusting the column to the desired length.
[0024] The plug may comprise a first plug part allowing at least a part of the plug to be
inserted into the inner tube. To facilitate handling of the column, the size and shape
of the first plug part may correspond to the inner size and shape of an inner tube
being at least partly hollow. Furthermore, the plug may comprise a second plug part
of a size and shape allowing the second plug part to be supported on the circumference
of the inner tube.
[0025] It should however be understood, that the shape of the plug and the shape of the
inner tube may be different. Thus, in one embodiment, the inner tube may be square-shaped
while the plug has a cross-sectional shape being circular or the opposite. Other combinations
are also possible.
[0026] The plug may be made in one piece. Alternatively, a first and a second plug part
may be formed separately. Subsequently, the first and second plug part may be the
joined, e.g. by welding or adhesively bonded together.
[0027] In one embodiment of the invention, at least one of the two ends of the outer and
the inner tube constituting the two ends of the column is provided with an anchor
plate for attachment of the column to the floor and/or ceiling construction in the
erected building.
[0028] In one embodiment of the invention, the adjustment and fixation mechanism comprises
at least two clamping flanges, which are fastened respectively to the outer and the
inner tube, and at least two bolts or threaded rods with corresponding nuts and washers
for coupling together and locking of the two clamping flanges - and thus the outer
and the inner tube - in relation to each other. A flange may be attached to the outer
surface of each of the inner and outer tube along the outer circumference of the tube.
In one embodiment, the at least two flanges may be attached to the outer surface by
welding.
[0029] The at least two flanges may each comprise at least one through hole through which
a bolt or rod may be inserted. By fastening a nut to both ends of a rod or to the
free end of a bolt extending though a though hole in flanges attached to the inner
and outer tube, the inner and outer tube may be hold together, and thus fixed to each
other.
[0030] The use of flanges and nuts or threaded rods is a safe and reliable method of adjustment
and fixation of the two tubes in relation to each other. This may ensure that the
inner and outer tube are not separated during use, e.g. when carrying the column at
the construction site or due to wind pressure.
[0031] In one embodiment of the invention, the column furthermore comprises one or more
spacers which are arranged about the outer and the inner tube between the two clamping
flanges on the outer and the inner tube, respectively, which are closest to each other,
and whose overall height corresponds to the space between the two clamping flanges
when the column is adjusted to the desired length.
[0032] When the spacers are placed between the clamping flanges it is not necessary to select
the correct combination of spacers before the inner tube is inserted into the outer
tube, and place the column where it needs to be used. On the other hand, this embodiment
places somewhat greater demands on the strength of the clamping flanges and their
attachment to the inner and the outer tube, respectively.
[0033] In one embodiment of the invention, the adjustment and fixation mechanism comprises
an internal thread in the outer tube and an external thread on the inner tube, so
that the inner tube can be screwed into the outer tube. This inner and outer thread
may be combined with at least one of the spacers/rings and the flanges and bolts.
[0034] By using an inner and outer thread on the two tubes for adjustment and fixation of
the two tubes in relation to each other, there is no need to mount clamping flanges
on the two tubes, and the outer dimensions of the column transversely to the length
direction are reduced.
[0035] In one embodiment of the invention, the outer tube, the inner tube, as well as any
anchor plates, clamping flanges and plugs for closure of the inner tube are made of
steel or another metallic material. It should be understood, that the outer and inner
tube and/or other elements forming the column may alternatively be made of a plastic
material, such as POM. Furthermore, it should be understood, that some elements may
be made of metal, whereas other elements may be made of plastic, or of another material,
whereby the adjustable column may comprise elements of different materials.
[0036] In one embodiment of the invention, the spacers and/or the rings are made of a strong
plastic material, such as POM, steel, another metal, or a similar hard material which
can withstand significant pressure.
[0037] This choice of material is well suited to the purpose, primarily because these materials
have the necessary compressive strength in order to support a construction part, and
thus satisfy the purpose of the invention.
[0038] In one embodiment of the invention, the outer diameter of the outer tube is between
3 and 12 cm, preferably between 6 and 8 cm.
[0039] In one embodiment of the invention, the wall thickness of the outer tube and the
inner tube is between 2 and 15 mm, preferably between 2.5 and 5 mm.
[0040] In one embodiment of the invention, the length of the column is adjustable at least
in the interval of 500-5000 mm, preferably within the interval of 750-4500 mm.
[0041] In one embodiment of the invention, the column is dimensioned to have a load bearing
ability of at least 2 tons, preferably at least 5.5 tons.
[0042] According to a second aspect, the invention provides a method of supporting a construction;
the method comprising the steps of; providing a column with adjustable length, the
column comprising an outer tube and an inner tube having a size allowing the inner
tube to be inserted into one end of the outer tube, providing an adjustment and fixation
mechanism configured to control the insertion of the inner tube into the outer tube,
where the adjustment mechanism comprises one or more cylindrical spacers and/or rings,
arranging the spacers and/or rings in the outer tube, and inserting the inner tube
into the outer tube so that the one or more spacers and/or rings lay against the closed
end of the outer tube and the end of the inner tube.
[0043] It should be understood, that a skilled person would readily recognise that any feature
described in combination with the first aspect of the invention could also be combined
with the second aspect of the invention, and vice versa.
[0044] The column according to the first aspect of the invention is very suitable for performing
the method steps according to the second aspect of the invention. The remarks set
forth above in relation to the column are therefore equally applicable in relation
to the method.
[0045] The method may comprise a step of arranging the column below a construction part
after inserting the inner tube into the outer tube.
[0046] According to a third aspect, the invention provides a kit of elements for assembling
a column according to the first aspect of the invention, the kit comprising an outer
tube, an inner tube, and an adjustment and fixation mechanism for controlling how
much the inner tube can be introduced into the outer tube, and thus the overall length
of the column, the adjustment mechanism comprising one or more cylindrical spacers
and/or rings.
[0047] The kit may comprises spacers and/or rings of different height, whereby is may be
possible to assemble columns of different height by the elements of one kit. When
varying the number and/or height of the spacers/rings in the outer tube, it may be
possible to vary the height of the column, and thereby adjust the height to the required
dimension in the longitudinal direction of the column.
[0048] In embodiments where the kit comprises a single spacer/ring, the height of the column
may be varied by adjusting the height of the spacer/ring before arranging the spacer/ring
in the outer tube, and thereby adjust the height to the required dimension in the
longitudinal direction of the column. The height of the spacer/ring may as an example
be adjusted by cutting the spacer/ring into required height. This may be done at the
construction site.
[0049] It should be understood, that a skilled person would readily recognise that any feature
described in combination with the first and second aspects of the invention could
also be combined with the third aspect of the invention, and vice versa. The remarks
set forth above in relation to the column and the method are therefore equally applicable
in relation to the kit.
[0050] According to a fourth aspect, the invention provides a construction comprising a
support surface, an upper construction part, and a column according to the first aspect
of the invention, wherein the column is arranged between the support surface and the
construction part to carry at least a part of the weight of the construction part.
[0051] It should be understood, that a skilled person would readily recognise that any feature
described in combination with the first, second, and third aspects of the invention
could also be combined with the fourth aspect of the invention, and vice versa.
[0052] The column according to the first aspect of the invention, the method according to
the second aspect of the invention, and the kit according to the third aspect of the
invention are very suitable in relation the construction according to the fourth aspect
of the invention. The remarks set forth above in relation to the column, the method,
and the kit, are therefore equally applicable in relation to the construction.
[0053] According to a fifth aspect, the invention provides a column with adjustable length
for use as a load-bearing element in connection with the construction of buildings,
which column comprises an outer tube, which is closed at one end, and at the other
end there is introduced one end of an inner tube, whose outer diameter is marginally
less than the inner diameter of the outer tube, an adjustment and fixation mechanism
for controlling how much the inner tube in introduced into the outer tube, and thus
the overall length of the column, one or more cylindrical spacers and/or rings, which
are arranged in the outer tube before the inner tube is introduced therein, and optionally
a plug for closing off the one end of the inner tube facing into the outer tube, wherein
the overall height of the spacers and the plugs, if any, corresponds to the space
between the closed end of the outer tube and the end of the inner tube when the column
is adjusted to the desired length.
[0054] It should be understood, that a skilled person would readily recognise that any feature
described in combination with the first, second, third, and fourth aspects of the
invention could also be combined with the fifth aspect of the invention, and vice
versa.
Brief description of the drawings
[0055] Embodiments of the invention will now be further described with reference to the
drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 illustrates an adjustable column according to one embodiment of the invention,
Fig. 2 illustrates a cross section of the column illustrated in Fig. 1,
Figs. 3a and 3b illustrate different view of the column illustrated in Figs. 1 and
2,
Fig. 4 illustrates an alternative embodiment of an adjustable column according to
the invention, and
Figs. 5a and 5b illustrates different views of the column illustrated in Fig. 4.
Detailed description of the drawings
[0056] It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while
indicating embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since
various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will
become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.
[0057] Figs. 1, 2, 3a and 3b illustrate an adjustable steel column 1 according to one embodiment
of the invention. The column 1 comprises an outer tube 2 with welded-on anchor plate
4 and clamping flange 6, and an inner tube 3, similarly with welded-on anchor plate
5 and clamping flange 7. The anchor plates 4, 5 are provided with a number of holes
14 through which bolts for attachment of the column 1 to a building structure can
be inserted. Likewise, the clamping flanges 6, 7 are provided with similar holes 15,
through which bolts or threaded rods 8 for fixation of the two clamping flanges 6,
7 in relation to each other can be inserted.
[0058] The two clamping flanges 6, 7 and thus the two tubes 2, 3 are held together by four
threaded rods 8 with corresponding nuts 9 and washers 10. In other embodiments, the
threaded rods 8 and the nuts 9 can be replaced by bolts in one end of the threaded
rods 8. The flanges 6, 7 and the rods 8 with nuts 9 ensures that the inner tube 3
and outer tube 2 are not separated during use, e.g. when carrying the column 1 at
the construction site or due to wind pressure when supporting a construction part
(not shown).
[0059] A cross section of the same column 1 is shown in Fig. 2. This shows where the end
of the inner tube 3 which is inserted into the outer tube 2 is closed off by a steel
plug 12, and how a thick 12 and a thin 13 spacer are put in place, so as adjust the
height of the column by filling the space between this steel plug 11 and the closed
end of the outer tube 2.
[0060] The upper end of the outer tube 2 is closed by the anchor plate 4 to ensure that
the spacers 12, 13 are retained in the outer tube 2 when arranged herein. It should
be understood, that the anchor plate 4 may comprise at least one opening while still
retaining the spacers in the outer tube. The at least one opening may as an example
facilitate galvanisation of the outer tube 2.
[0061] The anchor plate 5 at the inner tube 3 comprises an opening 16 (see Fig. 2). The
opening 16 may as an example facilitate galvanisation of the inner tube 3. Furthermore,
the opening 16 may facilitate draining of the inner tube 3, as water in the inner
tube 3 can be drained out of the inner tube 3 through the opening 16. In the illustrated
embodiment, the opening 16 is centrally arranged at the anchor plate 5. It should
be understood, that it in an alternative embodiment may be arranged at another position.
Furthermore, in yet another embodiment, the anchor plate 5 may be provided without
an opening.
[0062] In the embodiment shown, it is thus the spacers 12, 13 which hold the two tubes 2,
3 apart from each other and thereby adjust the height of the column 1, and the threaded
rods 8 with nuts 9 which hold them together, so that the tubes 2, 3 cannot move in
relation to each other in either the one or the other lengthwise direction. If there
is a suitable assortment of spacers 12, 13 available in various thicknesses/heights,
one can thus achieve the desired length of the column 1 by selecting a number of spacers
12, 13 whose overall height corresponds to the distance between the closed end of
the outer tube 2 and the plug 11 which closes off the inner tube 1 when the column
1 has the desired overall length. After the spacers 12, 13 have been placed in the
outer tube and the inner tube 3 has been inserted into the outer tube 2, the two tubes
can thus be clamped together with the help of the threaded rods 8 and the nuts 9.
[0063] In other embodiments (not shown), the spacers 12, 13 can be replaced by spacers which
are placed outside the tubes 2, 3 between the clamping flanges 6, 7. This provides
a more flexible solution, since the spacers can be put in place after the two tubes
2, 3 are put together, and the column has been placed where it is supposed to be used,
making it easier to adjust the overall height of the spacers.
[0064] In yet other embodiments (not shown), the spacers can be replaced by nuts 9 and washers
10 on the threaded rods 8 or the bolts between the two clamping flanges 6, 7, so that
there are threaded rods 8 (or corresponding bolts) and corresponding nuts 9 and washers
10 on both sides of each of the two clamping flanges 6, 7 which hold together the
two tubes 2, 3 in relation to each other in both lengthwise directions. This provides
an even more flexible solution, since the height adjustment becomes continuous and
with no limitation of the combination possibilities which can be accomplished by means
of the available spacers.
[0065] The price for the increased flexibility which is accomplished in the latter embodiments
is that somewhat greater demands are placed on the strength of the clamping flanges
6, 7 and their attachment to the two tubes 2, 3 when this column 1 is bearing loads.
[0066] Figs. 4, 5a and 5b illustrate an alternative embodiment of an adjustable column 101
according to the invention.
[0067] The column 101 comprises an outer tube 102 and an inner tube 103 which is inserted
into the outer tube 102 along a part of its length.
[0068] The column 101 further comprises an adjustment and fixation mechanism for controlling
how much the inner tube 103 can be inserted into the outer tube 102, and thus being
configured for controlling the overall length of the column 101. The adjustment mechanism
comprises two spacers 112, 113, which are arranged in the outer tube 102 before the
inner tube 103 is inserted therein.
[0069] Furthermore, the column 101 comprises a plug 111 for closing off the one end of the
inner tube 103 inserted into the outer tube 102.
[0070] Thereby the length of the column 101 can be adjusted corresponding to the height
of the spacers 112, 113 and the plug 111, as the spacers 112, 113 and the plug 111
keep the upper end of the upper tube 102 at the required distance from the upper end
of the lower tube 103.
[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the inner and outer tubes 103, 102 are kept together
by due to the outer diameter of the inner tube 103 being only marginally less than
the inner diameter of the outer tube 102.
[0072] The outer tube 102 comprises an anchor plate 104 provided with a number of holes
114 through which bolts (not shown) can be inserted for attachment of the column 101
to a building structure (not shown). The inner tube 103 comprises a similar anchor
plate 105 with holes 115.
[0073] The upper end of the outer tube 102 is closed by the anchor plate 4 to ensure that
the spacers 112, 113 are retained in the outer tube 102 when arranged herein. It should
be understood, that the anchor plate 104 may comprise at least one opening while still
retaining the spacers in the outer tube. The at least one opening may as an example
facilitate galvanisation of the outer tube 102.
[0074] The anchor plate 105 at the inner tube 3 may likewise comprises an opening. This
opening may as an example facilitate galvanisation of the inner tube 103. Furthermore,
the opening may facilitate draining of the inner tube 103.
Reference numbers
[0075]
- 1. Adjustable column
- 2. Outer tube
- 3. Inner tube
- 4. Anchor plate on outer tube
- 5. Anchor plate on inner tube
- 6. Clamping flange on outer tube
- 7. Clamping flange on inner tube
- 8. Threaded rod
- 9. Nut
- 10. Washer
- 11. Plug for inner tube
- 12. Thick spacer
- 13. Thin spacer
1. A column with adjustable length for use as a load-bearing element in connection with
the construction of buildings, which column comprises
an outer tube, which is closed at one end, and at the other end there is introduced
one end of an inner tube, whose outer diameter is less than the inner diameter of
the outer tube, and
an adjustment and fixation mechanism for controlling how much the inner tube can be
introduced into the outer tube, and thus the overall length of the column, the adjustment
mechanism comprising
one or more cylindrical spacers and/or rings, which are arranged in the outer tube
before the inner tube is introduced therein, characterized in that the one or more spacers and/or rings lay against the closed end of the outer tube
and the end of the inner tube.
2. A column according to claim 1, further comprising a plug for closing off the one end
of the inner tube facing into the outer tube, wherein the overall height of the spacers
and the plug corresponds to the space between the closed end of the outer tube and
the end of the inner tube when the column is adjusted to the desired length.
3. A column according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the two ends of the outer
and the inner tube constituting the two ends of the column is provided with an anchor
plate for attachment of the column to a floor and/or a ceiling construction in the
building.
4. A column according to any of the preceding claims, the adjustment and fixation mechanism
comprising at least two clamping flanges, which are fastened respectively to the outer
and the inner tube, and at least two bolts or threaded rods with corresponding nuts
and washers for coupling together and locking of the two clamping flanges, and thus
the outer and the inner tube, in relation to each other.
5. A column according to claim 4, further comprising one or more spacers which are arranged
about the outer and the inner tube between the two clamping flanges on the outer and
the inner tube, respectively, which are closest to each other, and whose overall height
corresponds to the space between the two clamping flanges when the column is adjusted
to the desired length.
6. A column according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the adjustment and fixation
mechanism comprises an internal thread in the outer tube and an external thread on
the inner tube, so that the inner tube can be screwed into the outer tube.
7. A column according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer tube, the
inner tube, as well as any anchor plates, clamping flanges and plugs for closure of
the inner tube are made of steel or another metallic material or of a plastic material.
8. A column according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the spacers and/or
the rings are made of a plastic material, such as POM, steel, another metal material,
or a similar hard material which can withstand significant pressure.
9. A column according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer diameter
of the outer tube is between 3 and 12 cm, preferably between 6 and 8 cm.
10. A column according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the wall thickness
of the outer tube and the inner tube is between 2 and 15 mm, preferably between 2.5
and 5 mm.
11. A column according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the column is configured
to have a load bearing ability of at least 2 tons, preferably at least 5.5 tons.
12. A method of supporting a construction, the method comprising the steps of;
- providing a column with adjustable length according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
the column comprising an outer tube and an inner tube having a size allowing the inner
tube to be inserted into one end of the outer tube,
- providing an adjustment and fixation mechanism configured to control the insertion
of the inner tube into the outer tube, where the adjustment mechanism comprises one
or more cylindrical spacers and/or rings,
- arranging the spacers and/or rings in the outer tube, and
- inserting the inner tube into the outer tube so that the one or more spacers and/or
rings lay against the closed end of the outer tube and the end of the inner tube.
13. A method according to claim 12, further comprising a step of arranging the column
below a construction part after inserting the inner tube into the outer tube.
14. A kit of elements for assembling a column according to any of claims 1-11, the kit
comprising an outer tube, an inner tube, and an adjustment and fixation mechanism
for controlling how much the inner tube can be introduced into the outer tube, and
thus the overall length of the column, the adjustment mechanism comprising one or
more cylindrical spacers and/or rings.
15. A construction comprising a support surface, a upper construction part, and a column
according to any of claims 1-11, wherein the column is arranged between the support
surface and the construction part to carry at least a part of the weight of the construction
part.
1. Stütze mit justierbarer Länge zur Verwendung als ein lasttragendes Element in Verbindung
mit dem Bau von Gebäuden, wobei die Stütze umfasst:
ein äußeres Rohr, welches an einem Ende geschlossen ist und an dessen anderen Ende
ein Ende eines inneren Rohrs eingeführt ist, dessen Außendurchmesser weniger als der
Innendurchmesser des äußeren Rohrs beträgt, und
einen Justier- und Befestigungsmechanismus zum Steuern, wie weit das innere Rohr in
das äußere Rohr eingeführt werden kann, und somit der Gesamtlänge der Stütze, wobei
der Justiermechanismus umfasst:
einen oder mehrere zylindrische Abstandshalter und/oder Ringe, welche in dem äußeren
Rohr angeordnet werden, bevor das innere Rohr dort eingeführt wird,
dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass
der eine oder die mehreren Abstandshalter und/oder Ringe an dem geschlossenen Ende
des äußeren Rohrs und dem Ende des inneren Rohrs anliegen.
2. Stütze nach Anspruch 1, ferner umfassend einen Stopfen zum Abschließen des einen Endes
des inneren Rohrs, das in das äußere Rohr zeigt, wobei die Gesamthöhe der Abstandshalter
und des Stopfens dem Raum zwischen dem geschlossenen Ende des äußeren Rohrs und dem
Ende des inneren Rohrs entspricht, wenn die Stütze auf die gewünschte Länge justiert
ist.
3. Stütze nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, wobei mindestens eines der zwei Enden des äußeren und
des inneren Rohrs, die die zwei Enden der Stütze darstellen, mit einer Verankerungsplatte
zur Befestigung der Stütze an einer Boden- und/oder einer Deckenkonstruktion in dem
Gebäude versehen ist.
4. Stütze nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei der Justier- und Befestigungsmechanismus
mindestens zwei Spannflansche umfasst, welche jeweils an dem äußeren und dem inneren
Rohr befestigt werden, und mindestens zwei Bolzen oder Gewindestangen mit entsprechenden
Muttern und Unterlegscheiben zum Verbinden und Verriegeln der zwei Spannflansche und
somit des äußeren und des inneren Rohrs in Bezug zueinander.
5. Stütze nach Anspruch 4, ferner umfassend einen oder mehrere Abstandshalter, die um
das äußere und das innere Rohr zwischen den zwei Spannflanschen jeweils am äußeren
und am inneren Rohr, die einander am nächsten sind, angeordnet sind und deren Gesamthöhe
dem Raum zwischen den Spannflanschen entspricht, wenn die Stütze auf die gewünschte
Länge justiert ist.
6. Stütze nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei der Justier- und Befestigungsmechanismus
ein Innengewinde in dem äußeren Rohr und ein Außengewinde an dem inneren Rohr umfasst,
so dass das innere Rohr auf das äußere Rohr geschraubt werden kann.
7. Stütze nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei das äußere Rohr, das innere
Rohr sowie jegliche Verankerungsplatten, Spannflansche und Stopfen zum Verschließen
des inneren Rohrs aus Stahl oder einem anderen metallischen Material oder aus einem
Kunststoffmaterial hergestellt sind.
8. Stütze nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Abstandshalter und/oder
die Ringe aus einem Kunststoffmaterial, wie POM, Stahl, einem anderen metallischen
Material, oder aus einem ähnlichen harten Material hergestellt ist, das einem erheblichen
Druck standhalten kann.
9. Stütze nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei der Außendurchmesser des äußeren
Rohrs zwischen 3 und 12 cm, vorzugsweise 6 und 8 cm beträgt.
10. Stütze nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Wanddicke des äußeren Rohrs
und des inneren Rohrs zwischen 2 und 15 mm, vorzugsweise zwischen 2,5 mm und 5 mm
beträgt.
11. Stütze nach einem der vorhergehenden Ansprüche, wobei die Stütze ausgelegt ist, um
eine Belastbarkeitsfähigkeit von mindestens 2 Tonnen, vorzugsweise mindestens 5,5
Tonnen aufzuweisen.
12. Verfahren zum Tragen einer Konstruktion, wobei das Verfahren die folgenden Schritte
umfasst:
- Bereitstellen einer Stütze mit justierbarer Länge nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis
11, wobei die Stütze ein äußeres Rohr und ein inneres Rohr mit einer Größe umfasst,
die gestattet, dass das innere Rohr in ein Ende des äußeren Rohrs eingeführt wird,
- Bereitstellen eines Justier- und Befestigungsmechanismus, der ausgelegt ist, um
das Einführen des inneren Rohrs in das äußere Rohr zu steuern, wobei der Justiermechanismus
einen oder mehrere zylindrische Abstandshalter und/oder Ringe umfasst,
- Anordnen der Abstandshalter und/oder Ringe in dem äußeren Rohr, und
- Einführen des inneren Rohrs in das äußere Rohr, so dass der eine oder die mehreren
Abstandshalter und/oder Ringe an dem geschlossenen Ende des äußeren Rohrs und dem
Ende des inneren Rohrs anliegen.
13. Verfahren nach Anspruch 12, ferner umfassend einen Schritt des Anordnens der Stütze
unterhalb eines Konstruktionsteils nach dem Einführen des inneren Rohrs in das äußere
Rohr.
14. Kit von Elementen zum Zusammenbauen einer Stütze nach einem der Ansprüche 1-11, wobei
das Kit ein äußeres Rohr, ein inneres Rohr und einen Justier- und Befestigungsmechanismus
zum Steuern, wie weit das innere Rohr in das äußere Rohr eingeführt werden kann, und
somit der Gesamtlänge der Stütze umfasst, wobei der Justiermechanismus einen oder
mehrere zylindrische Abstandshalter und/oder Ringe umfasst.
15. Konstruktion, umfassend eine Trägerfläche, ein oberes Konstruktionsteil und eine Stütze
nach einem der Ansprüche 1-11, wobei die Stütze zwischen der Trägerfläche und dem
Konstruktionsteil angeordnet ist, um mindestens einen Teil des Gewichts des Konstruktionsteils
zu tragen.
1. Colonne de longueur réglable, destinée à être utilisée comme élément de support de
charge, dans le domaine de la construction de bâtiments, ladite colonne comprenant
:
un tube extérieur fermé à une extrémité, une extrémité d'un tube intérieur étant introduite
dans l'autre extrémité de celui-ci, dont le diamètre extérieur est inférieur au diamètre
intérieur du tube extérieur, et
un mécanisme de réglage et de fixation, destiné à commander la distance sur laquelle
le tube intérieur peut être introduit dans le tube extérieur, et donc la longueur
globale de la colonne, le mécanisme de réglage comprenant
un ou plusieurs espaceurs cylindriques et/ou anneaux, disposés dans le tube extérieur
avant l'introduction du tube intérieur dans celui-ci,
caractérisée en ce que
les un ou plusieurs espaceurs et/ou anneaux reposent contre l'extrémité fermée du
tube extérieur et l'extrémité du tube intérieur.
2. Colonne selon la revendication 1, comprenant en outre un bouchon fermant l'extrémité
du tube intérieur tournée vers le tube extérieur, dans laquelle la hauteur globale
des espaceurs et du bouchon correspond à l'espace entre l'extrémité fermée du tube
extérieur et l'extrémité du tube intérieur lorsque la colonne est réglée à la longueur
souhaitée.
3. Colonne selon la revendication 1 ou 2, dans laquelle l'une au moins des deux extrémités
du tube extérieur et du tube intérieur constituant les deux extrémités de la colonne
est dotée d'une plaque d'ancrage pour la fixation de la colonne à une construction
de sol et/ou de plafond dans le bâtiment.
4. Colonne selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle le mécanisme
de réglage et de fixation comprend au moins deux rebords de serrage, lesquels sont
fixés respectivement aux tubes extérieur et intérieur, et au moins deux boulons ou
tiges filetées avec des écrous et des rondelles correspondants pour l'accouplement
et le verrouillage des deux rebords de serrage entre eux, et donc des tubes extérieur
et intérieur, l'un par rapport à l'autre.
5. Colonne selon la revendication 4, comprenant en outre un ou plusieurs espaceurs disposés
autour des tubes extérieur et intérieur entre les deux rebords de serrage sur les
tubes extérieur et intérieur, respectivement, lesquels sont les plus proches l'un
de l'autre, et dont la hauteur globale correspond à l'espace entre les deux rebords
de serrage lorsque la colonne est réglée à la longueur souhaitée.
6. Colonne selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle le mécanisme
de réglage et de fixation comprend un filetage interne dans le tube extérieur et un
filetage externe sur le tube intérieur, de sorte que le tube intérieur peut être vissé
dans le tube extérieur.
7. Colonne selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle le tube
extérieur, le tube intérieur, ainsi que les plaques d'ancrage, les rebords de serrage
et les bouchons de fermeture du tube intérieur sont constitués d'acier ou d'un autre
matériau métallique ou d'une matière plastique.
8. Colonne selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle les espaceurs
et/ou les anneaux sont constitués d'une matière plastique, telle que le POM, d'acier,
d'un autre matériau métallique, ou d'un matériau dur similaire capable de résister
à une pression significative.
9. Colonne selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle le diamètre
extérieur du tube extérieur est compris entre 3 et 12 cm, de préférence entre 6 et
8 cm.
10. Colonne selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle l'épaisseur
de paroi du tube extérieur et du tube intérieur est comprise entre 2 et 14 mm, de
préférence entre 2,5 et 5 mm.
11. Colonne selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, dans laquelle la colonne
est configurée de manière à présenter une capacité de support de charge d'au moins
2 tonnes, de préférence d'au moins 5,5 tonnes.
12. Procédé de support d'une construction, le procédé comprenant les étapes suivantes
:
- la mise à disposition d'une colonne avec une longueur réglable selon l'une quelconque
des revendications 1 à 11, la colonne comprenant un tube extérieur et un tube intérieur
présentant une taille permettant au tube intérieur d'être inséré dans une extrémité
du tube extérieur,
- la mise à disposition d'un mécanisme de réglage et de fixation configuré pour commander
l'insertion du tube intérieur dans le tube extérieur, le mécanisme de réglage comprenant
un ou plusieurs espaceurs cylindriques et/ou anneaux,
- la disposition des espaceurs et/ou anneaux dans le tube extérieur, et
- l'insertion du tube intérieur dans le tube extérieur de telle façon que les un ou
plusieurs espaceurs et/ou anneaux reposent contre l'extrémité fermée du tube extérieur
et l'extrémité du tube intérieur.
13. Procédé selon la revendication 12, comprenant en outre une étape de disposition de
la colonne sous une partie de construction après l'insertion du tube intérieur dans
le tube extérieur.
14. Kit d'éléments pour l'assemblage d'une colonne selon l'une quelconque des revendications
1 à 11, le kit comprenant un tube extérieur, un tube intérieur et un mécanisme de
réglage et de fixation destiné à commander la distance sur laquelle le tube intérieur
peut être introduit dans le tube extérieur, et donc la longueur globale de la colonne,
le mécanisme de réglage comprenant un ou plusieurs espaceurs cylindriques et/ou anneaux.
15. Construction comprenant une surface de support, une partie de construction supérieure
et une colonne selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 11, dans laquelle la
colonne est disposée entre la surface de support et la partie de construction pour
porter au moins une partie du poids de la partie de construction.