CONNECTION DISC FOR A SCAFFOLD

Description

FIELD

The invention relates to a connecting disc for connecting at least two scaffold elements comprising a basic body having a first main surface and a second main surface which is disposed opposite of the first main surface, and having an edge surface which runs round the basic body and connects the first main surface and the second main surface to one another, at least one longitudinal connecting opening which passes completely through the basic body, and at least two transverse connecting openings each of which passes completely through the basic body, each transverse connecting opening being delimited by a peripheral contour in a plan view of the first main surface, said peripheral contour having a receiving region and at least one blocking region which interrupts the receiving region and is disposed outside the receiving region. The at least two transverse connecting openings are disposed on mutually opposing sides of the longitudinal connecting opening, the blocking regions of the at least two transverse connecting openings being directed away from one another. The invention further relates to a standard having a connecting disc, as well as to a scaffold section having a standard.

BACKGROUND

Scaffolds are used for various functions in the construction sector. Facade scaffolds serve to shape, for example, to paint the outer surfaces of buildings. Facade scaffolds are typically assembled from facade scaffold frames as the main components, in recent times, they are also assembled from modular scaffolds. In civil engineering, support scaffolds are used to get a wide variety of building parts into position and to keep them there. Such building parts may be, for example, precast concrete elements, steel beams or steel structures. Moreover, elements required for the erection of buildings such as temporary structures or formwork can be positioned with the aid of support scaffolds. Finally, scaffolds are also made use of in the service or revision sector, for example, to safely get personnel to the plant sections to be revised in large process plants such as refineries. Principally, for scaffolds, the basic requirements prevail that they have to be readily transportable and easy to assemble.

Scaffolds usually include substantially vertically oriented elements, also referred to as scaffold posts, and substantially horizontally oriented elements also referred to as scaffold transoms or locking elements. From these scaffold elements, a three-dimensional scaffold section is assembled, the scaffold posts and the locking elements being connected to each other by connection interfaces. Through these connection interfaces, forces and momentums are transferred between the individual scaffold elements in the assembled scaffold section. The interfaces have to be designed so that they are connectable to and separable from each other in an easy manner to render an easy and rapid assembly and disassembly of the scaffold section possible.

A known interface which is usually disposed on vertically oriented standards or vertical posts is a connecting disc which is oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of and projects beyond a standard. In such a connecting disc, usually, a plurality of openings serving as a connecting portion to other scaffold elements is incorporated. These openings are dimensioned so that they are slightly larger than associated counter elements disposed on other scaffold elements, for example, on a horizontal transom as an interface. In this way, an easy establishment and release of the connection via the connecting disc is ensured. Moreover, the clearance between the connecting disc and the counter element renders a certain compensation of tolerances with respect to the position and the angle during the connection of two scaffold elements to each other possible. This compensation of tolerances is important since, in real life, the scaffold elements can rarely be exactly aligned relative to each other with respect to the position and the angle. However, with the known solutions, only small momentums can be transferred between the connecting disc and a scaffold element, particularly a horizontal transom connected thereto. Therefore, scaffold sections using known connecting discs as an interface are unsuitable in some applications because larger momentums acting on the connection result in a movement, for example, an unsteadiness of the scaffold section which may pose a risk to the persons working on the scaffold.

SUMMARY

The object of the invention is therefore the proposal of solutions with the aid of which a transfer of larger momentums through an interface implemented as a connecting disc is possible and by means of which, at the same time, positioning errors of scaffold elements connected to the connecting disc can be compensated.

This object is solved by a connecting disc for connecting at least two scaffold elements comprising

• • a basic body having a first main surface and a second main surface which is disposed opposite of the first main surface, and having an edge surface, which extends around the basic body and connects the first main surface and the second main surface to each other,
  • at least one longitudinal connecting opening which extends from the first main surface to the second main surface and passes completely through the basic body, and which extends substantially at the right angle to the first main surface or to the second main surface,
  • at least two transverse connecting openings each of which extends from the first main surface to the second main surface and passes completely through the basic body, and each of which extends substantially at the right angle to the first main surface or to the second main surface, and each of which is disposed adjacent to or spaced-apart from the longitudinal connecting opening,
    each transverse connecting opening being delimited by a peripheral contour in a plan view of the first main surface, the peripheral contour having a receiving region which is provided for receiving a connection of a scaffold element, and the peripheral contour having at least one blocking region which interrupts the receiving region, the two ends of the receiving region adjacent to the blocking region converging and/or imaginary, continuous extensions of the two ends of the receiving region adjacent to the blocking region intersecting, and the blocking region being provided for receiving a locking element of a scaffold element, the blocking region being disposed outside of a continuous connection of the two ends of the contour of the receiving region adjacent to the blocking region outside of the receiving region, and at least one section of the contour of the blocking region extending at an angle other than 0° to the continuous connection, the at least two transverse connecting openings being disposed on mutually opposing sides of the longitudinal connecting opening, the blocking regions of the at least two transverse connecting openings being directed away from one another, and an imaginary line between the two blocking regions defining a first connecting direction,
    and the basic body having at least two additional connecting openings each of which extends from the first main surface to the second main surface and passes completely through the basic body, and each of which extends substantially at the right angle to the first main surface or to the second main surface, each additional connecting opening having a peripheral contour which is provided for receiving a connection and a locking element of a scaffold element, the peripheral contour of each additional connecting opening having a curved contact area, and the at least two additional connecting openings being disposed on mutually opposing sides of the longitudinal connecting opening, the contact areas of the two additional connecting openings being directed away from one another, and an imaginary line between the two contact areas defining a second connecting direction, the first connecting direction being oriented perpendicular to the second connecting direction.

A connecting disc according to the invention serves the connection of a plurality of scaffold elements in a scaffold section. The connecting disc is based on a basic body. This basic body comprises a first main surface and a second main surface which constitute the largest surfaces of the connecting disc. The first main surface and the second main surface are disposed opposite to each other and preferably oriented parallel to each other. The outer boundary of the basic body forms an edge surface which extends around the basic body and adjoins the first main surface and the second main surface. In the basic body, a plurality of openings is incorporated: a centrally arranged longitudinal connecting opening, two transverse connecting openings, and two additional connecting openings. Moreover, additional openings may be incorporated in the basic body. The transverse connecting openings and the additional connecting openings differ from each other and from the longitudinal connecting opening in terms of their shape. In the following, first, the individual openings will be addressed, and then, the interaction and the relative positioning of these openings with respect to each other will be described.

The longitudinal connecting opening extends through the basic body and constitutes the central opening of the connecting disc around which the other openings are disposed. The longitudinal connecting opening is provided to accommodate a scaffold element vertically oriented in application and to be fixedly connected to it. For example, the connecting disc may be connected to a standard through the longitudinal connecting opening.

Furthermore, at least two transverse connecting openings are incorporated in the basic body which extend completely through it. These transverse connecting openings have a specific shape which renders the transfer of torques acting around an axis perpendicular to the first main surface or to the second main surface between the connecting disc and scaffold elements connected thereto possible. In a plan view of the first main surface or the second main surface, each transverse connecting opening has a peripheral contour which comprises two sections. A first section of the peripheral contour is the receiving region which encloses the portion of the transverse connecting opening provided for receiving a connection of a scaffold element. A second section of the peripheral contour is the blocking region which is disposed outside of the receiving region. The blocking region is provided for accommodating a locking element of a scaffold element. This locking element projects beyond the connection of the scaffold element. The blocking region is provided to positively accommodate and to thereby block the locking element. This positive connection prevents the connected scaffold element from rotating relative to the connecting disc. The blocking region may be implemented, for example, as an indentation or groove and is always complementary in shape with at least a section of the locking element. The blocking region interrupts the receiving region and is disposed outside of the receiving region. Here, two ends of the receiving region respectively adjoin the blocking region on one side. These two adjoining ends of the receiving region converge or can be continuously extended by way of imagination. This imaginary extension of the receiving region in the area in which it is interrupted by the blocking region serves the definition of the shape of the blocking region. If the ends of the receiving region adjoining the blocking region are continuously extended this will result in a continuous connection between these two ends of the receiving region. This imaginary continuous connection delimits the receiving region with respect to the blocking region. The blocking region is disposed outside of this continuous connection. Inside the receiving region, within the imaginary boundary of the continuous connection, the connection of the scaffold element is positioned. The locking element, on the other hand, projects beyond the continuous connection into the blocking region. The blocking region itself also has a contour which, at least in sections, is oriented at an angle other than 0° to the continuous connection of the two ends of the receiving region. Such a contour of the blocking region arranged at an angle renders a transfer of torques between the locking element and the blocking region possible. Preferably, at least part of the contour of the blocking region is oriented at an angle of 90°+/−10° to the continuous connection as well as to the ends of the receiving region adjoining the blocking region. However, it is also possible to position the blocking region at a smaller angle to the continuous connection, or also at a varying angle to the continuous connection. Substantially, the precise geometry of the contour of the blocking region depends on the contour of the locking element which is to be positively inserted into the blocking region. In a connecting disc according to the invention, two such transverse connecting openings are disposed in the basic body on mutually opposing sides of the longitudinal connecting opening. Here, the blocking regions of the two transverse connecting openings are directed away from each other and away from the longitudinal connecting opening. An imaginary line between the two blocking regions, particularly between the centre of the two blocking regions defines a first connecting direction of the connecting disc.

Furthermore, the basic body of a connecting disc according to the invention has at least two additional connecting openings which also extend completely through the basic body. Each additional connecting opening also has a peripheral contour which, however, is different from the peripheral contour of the transverse connecting openings. The peripheral contour of the longitudinal connecting opening has no blocking region forming an undercut. Instead of the blocking region, the peripheral contour of the additional connecting opening comprises a curved contact area. The peripheral contour of the additional connecting opening is provided for receiving both the connection and the locking element of a scaffold element. When a scaffold element is connected to an additional connecting opening no precise positive connection is established between the peripheral contour and the locking element. Rather, the locking element projecting beyond the connection can, at least in sections, slide along the curved contact surface inside the peripheral contour which, at least in sections, renders a rotational movement of the scaffold element connected to the connecting disc relative to the connecting disc possible. This rotational movement allows for a compensation of tolerances during the connection of a scaffold element to the connecting disc. Particularly a scaffold element which is not oriented precisely at the right angle to the other scaffold elements in the same scaffold section can still be readily connected to the connecting disc due to the degree of freedom provided for by the additional connecting opening. Due to this degree of freedom which renders an at least partial rotational movement of a scaffold element about a rotational axis perpendicular to the first main surface possible, the transferability of torques is only possible to a limited extent in this orientation. Therefore, an additional connecting opening renders the connection of a scaffold element possible in which tolerances in terms of positioning can be compensated while the transferability of torques is inferior. In contrast thereto, a transverse connecting opening renders the connection of a scaffold element possible in which the transferability of torques is high while only an inferior compensation of tolerances in terms of the relative position of a scaffold element with respect to the connecting disc is given. The at least two additional connecting openings are disposed on mutually opposing sides of the longitudinal connecting opening, the contact areas being disposed on the side of the peripheral contour facing away from the longitudinal connecting opening. An imaginary line between the two contact areas, particularly between the two centres of these contact areas defines a second connecting direction of the connecting disc. According to the invention, the first connecting direction between the two transverse connecting openings is oriented at the right angle to the second connecting direction between the two additional connecting openings. A connecting disc according to the invention has a first connecting direction in which two transverse connecting openings are disposed which render the transfer of high torques possible between the connecting disc and a scaffold element connected thereto. These transverse connecting openings respectively have a blocking region which can be brought into a positive connection to a locking element of the scaffold element. Rotational movements of the scaffold element relative to the connecting disc about a rotational axis perpendicular to the first main surface are completely or at least to the largest extent blocked and prevented by this positive connection. The first connecting direction is provided for connecting scaffold elements which are to be rigidly connected to the connecting disc. In addition, the connecting disc according to the invention has a second connecting direction in which two additional connecting openings are disposed. These additional connecting openings have a contact area for a locking element of a scaffold element which a allows for a partial rotational movement of a scaffold element connected to the connecting disc. In this way, positioning errors between the connecting disc and a scaffold element connected thereto can be compensated. In other words, the connection of one or of a plurality of other scaffold elements via the additional connecting openings allows for a slight deviation of the orientation of these scaffold elements from the second connecting direction. With the rectangular arrangement of the first connecting direction to the second connecting direction, intentionally, different properties of the connecting disc are produced in two directions oriented perpendicular to each other. This is particularly advantageous for the use in a scaffold section in which, largely, the requirement of the transfer of high torques prevails in one connecting direction of the connecting disc while, in another connecting direction, flexibility of the connection is required, for example, to erect a scaffold section along an irregularly formed object such as a building. With a connecting disc according to the invention, therefore, increased torques can be transferred by connections in the first connecting direction, and, at the same time, positioning errors of connected scaffold elements can be compensated by connections in the second connecting direction. The perpendicular orientation of the two connecting directions is particularly advantageous when the connecting disc is mounted so that the first connecting direction is oriented parallel to the transverse direction of the scaffold, and the second connecting direction is oriented parallel to the longitudinal direction of the scaffold.

In one embodiment, it is contemplated that, in a plan view of the first main surface, the blocking region is implemented in a U-shape, the two arms of the U being disposed at an angle other than 0° to the continuous connection, and/or the two arms of the U being disposed at an angle other than 0° to the section of the receiving region adjoining the blocking region. The blocking region may have a U-shaped design, the two arms being preferably disposed at the right angle to the section of the receiving region adjoining the blocking region. Such an arrangement of the arms benefits the transfer of high torques.

Preferably, it is contemplated that the blocking region is implemented so that it is axially symmetrical to an axis extending through the centre point of the longitudinal connecting opening. The longitudinal connecting opening has a centre point which may also be the centre point of the entire connecting disc. A configuration of the blocking region in which it is implemented so that it is axially symmetrical to an axis extending radially away from the centre point is advantageous in that a transfer of momentums between a scaffold element and the connecting disc is possible in two opposite rotational directions. Here, a momentum of the same magnitude can be transferred in the two opposite rotational directions since the contact surfaces between the locking element and the blocking region are identical in both rotational directions.

Moreover, it is contemplated that the blocking region, at least in sections, extends in a straight line. With a partly straight extension of the contour of the blocking region, a particularly good transfer of torques is rendered possible. Here, one or a plurality of straight sections may also be connected by curved sections.

It is contemplated that the longitudinal connecting opening and the receiving region are disposed at a distance to each other, and that the blocking region is disposed on the side of the receiving region disposed opposite of the longitudinal connecting opening. The blocking region of each transverse connecting opening is disposed on the side of the receiving region facing away from the longitudinal connecting opening. With respect to the centre point of the longitudinal connecting opening, the blocking region is therefore disposed on the radially outer side. In this way, the blocking region is readily accessible for inserting the locking element. The centre point of the longitudinal connecting opening and the centre of the surface area of the receiving region are disposed at a distance to each other. Here, the longitudinal connecting opening and the transverse connecting openings may be separated from each other by a portion of the basic body or merge, which will be described later.

Advantageously, it is contemplated that the longitudinal connecting opening defines a circular area. The connecting disc is provided for a fixed connection to a scaffold component which typically has a circular external cross section. For this reason, at least sections of the longitudinal connecting opening are designed in the form of a circular arc in a plan view. In this way, the longitudinal connecting opening defines a circular area into which a scaffold component can be introduced which is then fixedly connected to the connecting disc.

Preferably, it is contemplated that the longitudinal connecting opening comprises a transition to the receiving region. In this embodiment, the longitudinal connecting opening transitions into the receiving regions of a transverse connecting opening. This is advantageous in that a connection of a scaffold element introduced into the receiving region can be brought into contact with a scaffold component disposed inside the longitudinal connecting opening. Therefore, a direct transfer of forces and momentums can take place between a scaffold element connected to the connecting disc which is connected to a transverse connecting opening and a scaffold component secured in the longitudinal connecting opening. In this way, the flow of forces is guided in a direct way which increases the stability and rigidity of such a connection. Here, the transition between the longitudinal connecting opening and the receiving region is disposed on the side of the receiving region facing away from the blocking region. In a plan view of the first main surface, the receiving region is, in sections, preferably defined by straight edges extending parallel to the first connecting direction here.

Moreover, it is contemplated that the longitudinal connecting opening and the additional connecting opening are disposed at a distance to each other, and that the contact area is disposed on the side of the additional connecting opening disposed opposite of the longitudinal connecting opening. In this embodiment, the centre of the surface area of the additional connecting opening is disposed at a distance to the centre point of the longitudinal connecting opening. Here, each contact area of an additional connecting opening faces outwards in the radial direction starting from the centre point of the longitudinal connecting opening. A transition may also be provided between the additional connecting opening and the longitudinal connecting opening.

It is contemplated that the longitudinal connecting opening has a centre point, and that a surface of the contact area facing the centre point and a surface of the blocking region facing the centre point are disposed on a common circular track around the centre point or on circles concentric to the centre point the diameters of which differ from each other by up to 10%. In this embodiment, the distance from the centre point of the longitudinal connecting opening to the, with respect to the centre point, remotest section of the blocking region and the contact area is identical. This means that the blocking region and the contact area, starting from the centre point, extend towards the outside by the same distance in the radial direction. This is advantageous in that a scaffold element having a connection and a locking element are attachable in the same relative position in the radial direction to the centre point. With respect to the centre point of the longitudinal connecting opening, a locking element abutting on the contact area of an additional connecting opening has the same radial position as a locking element introduced into the blocking region of a transverse connecting opening. The maximum radial extension from the centre point is therefore identical in a transverse connecting opening and in an additional connecting opening. Here, it is also possible that these radial extensions or the distance of the outermost points of the blocking region and the contact area are located on concentric circles around the centre point the diameters of which differ by up to 10%.

Optionally, it is contemplated that the basic body has at least one connecting opening which extends from the first main surface to the second main surface and extends completely through the basic body and is disposed at a distance from the longitudinal connecting opening and the transverse connecting opening. In this embodiment, apart from the two transverse connecting openings and the two additional connecting openings, at least one additional connecting opening is incorporated in the basic body. This connecting opening is also provided for the connection to scaffold elements and may have various shapes and dimensions. It is also possible to provide a plurality of connecting openings which may also differ from each other in terms of their shape and size.

Advantageously, it is contemplated that the basic body is made of an iron-based material, and that the longitudinal connecting opening and the transverse connecting opening are cutouts in the basic body which are connected to each other, and which are produced in the basic body by punching or laser cutting. In this embodiment, the basic body and therefore the connecting disc is made of an iron-based material such as, for example, steel. In this way, the connecting disc can be easily connected to a scaffold component introduced into the longitudinal connecting opening. Iron-based materials can be welded particularly well which renders an easy and solid connection to a scaffold component possible.

The object of the invention is further solved by a standard comprising at least one connecting disc according to one of the previously described embodiments, further comprising at least one connection sleeve which is introduced into and fixedly connected to the longitudinal connecting opening, the connection sleeve having a central axis which extends in its longitudinal direction, the central axis being oriented substantially perpendicular to the first main surface and/or to the second main surface, the connection sleeve comprising a connection interface provided for the connection to a scaffold element in or on at least one of its end faces.

A standard according to the invention comprises at least one connecting disc according to one of the previously described embodiments. Into the longitudinal connecting opening of the connecting disc, a connection sleeve extending along its central axis is introduced. Preferably, the connection sleeve has a cylindrical external cross section. On at least one, preferably on both of its end faces, the connection sleeve comprises an interface by means of which the connection sleeve can be connected to another connection sleeve. A standard according to the invention is preferably considerably longer in the direction of its central axis than its diameter in a direction perpendicular to the central axis. For example, the length of the connection sleeve is particularly larger than the diameter by at least a factor of five. However, it is also possible to design the connection sleeve so that it is shorter, for example, so that its length is only larger than its diameter by a factor of three. In this shorter embodiment, the standard can be used as a scaffold node into which other vertically oriented scaffold posts are inserted. A standard according to the invention provides for the same advantages which were previously described in connection with the connecting disc. Particularly, other scaffold elements can be connected to the standard in the direction of the first connecting direction so that a transfer of high torques between the components is possible. At the same time, other scaffold elements can be connected to the standard in the direction of the second connecting direction. Here, a compensation of tolerances compensating positioning errors of these scaffold elements relative to the standard is possible along the second connecting direction.

In one embodiment of the standard, it is contemplated that the connection sleeve is formed by a pipe section, and the connection interface is formed by a receptacle which, starting from an end face, extends into the interior of the connection sleeve. In this embodiment, the connection sleeve is made of a pipe section preferably having a ring-shaped cross-section. The hollow interior of the pipe section may be used for inserting other scaffold elements.

Moreover, it is contemplated that the connection sleeve comprises at least one connecting hook which, starting from the outer circumferential surface of the connection sleeve, extends in a direction radially away from the central axis, the connecting hook being disposed at a distance from the connecting disc in the direction of the central axis, and the connecting hook extending parallel to a direction extending from the centre point of the longitudinal connecting opening to the blocking region of a transverse connecting opening in a plan view of the first main surface and/or the second main surface. In this embodiment, the standard comprises at least one connecting hook provided for the connection to other scaffold elements. For example, a railing pole can be mounted on such a connecting hook. This connecting hook is disposed at a distance to the connecting disc in the direction of the central axis of the connection sleeve to avoid collisions of scaffold elements connected to the connecting disc with scaffold elements connected to the connecting hook.

Preferably, it is contemplated that, in a plan view of the first main surface and/or the second main surface, the connecting hook extends in the first connecting direction. Preferably, the connecting hook is oriented along the first connecting direction in which the transverse connecting openings are also oriented relative to the centre point of the longitudinal connecting opening or the central axis of the connection sleeve.

The object of the invention is also solved by a scaffold section comprising at least one standard according to one of the previously described embodiments, further comprising

• • at least one scaffold element comprising an interface comprising a connection and a locking element, the locking element being implemented so that it is movable relative to the connection, and the locking element projecting beyond the connection in a locked state,
  • the connection being introduced into the receiving region of a transverse connecting opening of the connecting disc, and the locking element being introduced into the blocking region of the same transverse connecting opening, a positive connection preventing a rotational movement of the scaffold element relative to the scaffold node about a rotational axis parallel to the central axis being established, at least in sections, between the blocking region and the locking element.

Apart from a standard, a scaffold section according to the invention comprises at least one scaffold element which is connected to the connecting disc of the standard via a transverse connecting opening. The scaffold element may be formed, for example, by a horizontal transom. The scaffold element comprises at least one interface provided for the connection to the connecting disc. This interface comprises a connection which is implemented so that it is immobile relative to the remaining portion of the scaffold element. The interface further comprises a locking element which is implemented so that it is movable relative to the stationary connection. Here, the locking element can assume a locked state in which it projects beyond the connection. Moreover, the locking element can also assume an unlocked state in which it projects beyond the connection to a lesser extent than in the locked state or not at all. In the scaffold section according to the invention, the locking element of the interface of the scaffold element is introduced into a blocking region of a transverse connecting opening of the connecting disc. Here, a positive connection locking the scaffold element relative to the standard is established between the locking element and the blocking region. This blockage prevents a rotational movement of the scaffold element relative to the standard about a rotational axis parallel to the central axis. A scaffold section according to the invention is advantageous in that high torques can be transferred through the connection between the interface of the scaffold element and the connecting disc of the standard which improves the load capacity of the scaffold section. In addition, there is the option to connect additional scaffold elements to the scaffold section.

It is contemplated that, in the scaffold section, the locking element projects beyond the continuous connection of the receiving region. The locking element may, in sections, be disposed in the receiving region. However, it always projects beyond the continuous connection of the receiving region into the blocking region. This applies to the locked state of the locking element. In an unlocked state, the locking element may also be entirely disposed in the receiving region.

It is contemplated that the locking element can be introduced into the connection in an unlocked state, the locking element being disposed inside the continuous connection of the receiving region in a state introduced into the connection while not projecting into the blocking region. This insertion of the locking element into the connection serves a facilitated connection of the interface to the connecting disc. In the unlocked state, there is no positive connection between the blocking region and the locking element yet.

Furthermore, it is contemplated that the locking element and the connection extend through the connecting disc. The locking element and the connection are preferably designed so that they are longer than the thickness of the connecting disc in a direction parallel to the central axis. In this way, a secure connection of the scaffold element to the connecting disc is provided for.

Preferably, it is contemplated that the scaffold section comprises at least one additional scaffold element comprising a locking element and a connection, the additional scaffold element being connected to an additional connecting opening, the locking element and the connection being introduced into the additional connecting opening, and the locking element abutting on the curved contact area, the additional scaffold element being rotatable relative to the standard about a rotational axis parallel to the central axis by an angle of up to 60°. In this embodiment, at least one second scaffold element is connected to the standard. The interface of this second scaffold element is introduced into an additional connecting opening. Here, the locking element abuts on the curved contact area of the additional connecting opening and can be moved relative to the curved contact area there. In this way, there is no complete positive connection between the second scaffold element and the additional connecting opening. The connected second scaffold element can therefore, in sections, be rotated about a rotational axis parallel to the central axis. In this way, flexibility of this connection is given with respect to the orientation of the scaffold element relative to the standard.

Here, it is contemplated that, during a rotation of the additional scaffold element relative to the standard and/or the additional connecting opening about a rotational axis parallel to the central axis, the locking element slides along the curved contact area. The radius of curvature of the curved contact surface is considerably, at least by a factor of ten, larger than a radius of curvature or an external radius of the locking element. In this way, a sliding movement of the locking element along the contact surface is rendered possible. In this way, a rotational movement about a rotational axis parallel to the central axis is rendered possible. At the same time, however, the locking element abuts on the contact area so that a relative translational movement of the interface or the scaffold element towards the connecting disc is prevented. Therefore, such a connection only renders a relative rotational movement possible, but no displacement of the connected scaffold element relative to the standard.

Advantageously, it is contemplated that, in the scaffold section, the standard is oriented so that the first connecting direction extends between two transverse connecting openings in the transverse direction of the scaffold, and the second connecting direction extends between two additional connecting openings in the longitudinal direction of the scaffold, the longitudinal direction of the scaffold being the direction in which the scaffold section has its longest dimension, and the transverse direction of the scaffold being oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the scaffold. In this embodiment, the second connecting direction of the connecting disc is oriented parallel to the longitudinal scaffold direction of a scaffold in which the scaffold section is installed. Here, the longitudinal direction of the scaffold is to be understood to be the direction in which the scaffold section or the scaffold in which it is mounted has its longest dimension. Typically, the longitudinal direction of the scaffold is oriented parallel to a facade or another surface of a building on which the scaffold is erected. In many cases, a facade or other surface of a building is not straight but extends in curvatures or has cracks. Therefore, a scaffold section or a scaffold also has to deviate from a straight form along this direction to be oriented parallel to the surface. In a scaffold section, therefore, it has to be possible to position scaffold elements relative to each other in another than a straight form. This may be achieved by rendering rotatability possible at the connecting points between scaffold elements. In a scaffold section according to the invention, precisely this rotatability is achieved by a scaffold element being connected to an additional connecting opening of the connecting disc. The scaffold section is further oriented so that the first connecting direction extends parallel to the transverse direction of the scaffold. The transverse direction of the scaffold extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the scaffold. Therefore, it is es possible to transfer high torques between two scaffold elements connected to a transverse connecting opening by means of an interface in the transverse direction of the scaffold. In this way, the scaffold section is stabilised, and particularly a movement of the scaffold section in the longitudinal direction of the scaffold is prevented. In this embodiment of a scaffold section, it is therefore achieved that, on the one hand, it can be readily adapted to the progression of a building or a facade along the longitudinal direction of the scaffold, and that, at the same time, it has a higher load capacity and is more stable in the transverse direction of the scaffold.

It is possible that at least three scaffold elements are provided, the locking element and the connection of the first scaffold element being introduced into a transverse connecting opening, and the locking elements and connections of the two other scaffold elements respectively being introduced into an additional connecting opening. In this embodiment, altogether three scaffold elements are connected to a standard. In a plan view from the direction of the central axis of the connection sleeve, two scaffold elements are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the scaffold, and the third scaffold element is disposed perpendicular thereto in the transverse direction of the scaffold. This scaffold section may of course be expanded by other scaffold elements or other scaffold sections so that a stable and, at the same time, flexible scaffold is provided.

Optionally, it is contemplated that the connection sleeve of the standard is connected to at least one additional scaffold element via the connecting interface. In this embodiment, the connection sleeve of the standard in the scaffold section is also connected to at least one additional scaffold element. Here, the connection of this at least one additional scaffold element is established via a connection interface in the connection sleeve. In this way, the scaffold section can be expanded by additional scaffold elements in a direction parallel to the central axis.

Also disclosed is a method for connecting a standard to a scaffold element in a scaffold section according to one of the previously described embodiments, comprising the steps of

• • A) introducing the connection of the scaffold element into the receiving region of a transverse connecting opening,
  • B) rotationally moving the scaffold element about a rotational axis parallel to the central axis of the connection sleeve of the standard until the locking element is oriented towards the blocking region,
  • C) moving the locking element relative to the connection so that the locking element enters the blocking region, and so that a positive connection is established between the locking element and the blocking region.

This method serves to connect a standard comprising a connecting disc to a scaffold element. In this way, a scaffold section comprising a standard and at least one scaffold element is obtained. A standard is used to assemble a scaffold section. The method is preferably performed in the described order of the process steps A) to C). In a first process step A), an interface of the scaffold element is introduced into a transverse connecting opening of the connecting disc. Here, the interface is in the unlocked state, and the locking element does not or only slightly project beyond the connection of the interface of the scaffold element. In a second process step B), a rotational movement of the scaffold element is performed until the locking element is arranged so that it is congruent with the blocking region of the transverse connecting opening. In a third process step C), the interface is then transferred from the unlocked state into the locked state, the locking element moving relative to the connection and entering the blocking region. In this way, a positive connection is established between the locking element and the blocking region, and the connection between the scaffold element and the connecting disc does no longer have any degree of freedom in a rotational direction perpendicular to the central axis of the standard. Here, it is advantageous that the locking element can only enter the blocking region when, in process step B), the correct orientation of the scaffold element relative to the connecting disc is reached in a rotational direction parallel to the central axis. If this correct orientation is not reached a positive connection of the interface to the connecting disc is impossible. This is readily identifiable both optically and haptically so that the method according to the invention ensures that the scaffold element is correctly positioned with respect to the connecting disc before a fixed connection of the two components is possible. Optionally, it is contemplated that the connection and the locking element are connected to each other by a spring pushing the locking element out of the connection. In this embodiment, the locking element will automatically become engaged in the blocking region of the transverse connecting opening as soon as the correct relative positioning of the interface and the transverse connecting openings is reached. Particularly, a correct positioning of the scaffold element relative to the connecting disc is possible in a virtually automatic fashion in this embodiment. The method therefore facilitates the correct assembly of a scaffold section.

Features, effects, and advantages disclosed in connection with the connecting disc and the standard are also deemed disclosed in connection with the scaffold section. The same applies in the reverse direction; features, effects, and advantages disclosed in connection with the scaffold section are also deemed disclosed in connection with the connecting disc and the standard.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the Figures, embodiments the invention are schematically illustrated. Here,

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a connecting disc according to the invention,

FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the lower side of an embodiment of a connecting disc according to the invention with a scaffold element connected thereto, and

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a scaffold section according to the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the Figures, identical elements are designated by the same reference numerals. Generally, the described properties of an element described with reference to one Figure also apply to the other Figures. Directional information such as above or below relate to the described Figure and are to be applied to other Figures accordingly.

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a connecting disc 1 according to the invention. The connecting disc 1 is based on a basic body 2 which is formed by a disc or plate made of an iron- based material in the illustrated embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the basic body 2 has a square basic shape having rounded corners is in a plan view from above. The basic body 2 comprises a main surface 21 facing upwards in the illustration and having a planar design. On the lower side of the basic body 2, opposite of the first main surface 21, there is a second, also planar main surface 22. The first main surface 21 and the second main surface 22 are arranged parallel to each other and delimit the basic body 2 in the direction of the thickness. The second main surface 22, at least in sections, may also have a curved design. Furthermore, it is possible that the first main surface 21 and the second main surface 22 are not oriented parallel to each other. The edge surface 23 of the basic body 2 extends around the basic body and connects the first main surface 21 to the second main surface 22. The edge surface 23 has an irregular shape and comprises both planar and curved sections. In the centre of the illustrated embodiment of a connecting disc 1, a longitudinal connecting opening 3 is incorporated which extends perpendicular to the first main surface 21 and to the second main surface 22 and which extends completely through the basic body 2. The longitudinal connecting opening 3 has a centre point M. The longitudinal connecting opening 3 delimits a circular area provided for receiving another element, for example, a connection sleeve 30. Part of the delimiting surfaces of the longitudinal connecting opening 3 has the shape of a cylindrical shell.

In the illustrated embodiment, two transverse connecting openings 4 are provided which are respectively disposed at a distance to the longitudinal connecting opening 3. Each of the transverse connecting openings 4 extends perpendicularly from the first main surface 21 to the second main surface 22 and extends completely through the basic body 2. Between each of the two transverse connecting openings 4 and the longitudinal connecting opening 3, an open transition is disposed. Therefore, the longitudinal connecting opening 3 and the transverse connecting openings 4 transition into each other. Each transverse connecting opening 4 is delimited by a peripheral contour 41. This peripheral contour 41 is formed by the edge of the transverse connection opening 4 in a plan view of the first main surface 21 or the second main surface 22. The peripheral contour 41 can be seen particularly well in FIG. 2 and the plan view illustrated there. The peripheral contour 41 comprises a receiving region 411 which is a section of the peripheral contour 41. The remaining portion of the peripheral contour 41 is formed by a blocking region 412. In the illustration, the blocking region 412 is indicated by a dashed line extending parallel thereto. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving region 411 is implemented in a bell shape and provided for receiving a connection 201 of a scaffold element 20, particularly an interface S of the scaffold element 20. The receiving region 411 extends from a first side of the transition of the transverse connecting opening 4 to the longitudinal connecting opening 3 to a second side of this transition. The receiving region 411 is interrupted by the blocking region 412 disposed opposite of the transition of the longitudinal connecting opening 3 to the longitudinal connecting opening 3. In a plan view of the first main surface 21 or the second main surface 22, the blocking region 412 has a U-shaped design, the two arms of the U being connected to the adjacent portion of the receiving region 411 in a rounded manner. In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking region is implemented so that it is axially symmetrical to an axis extending through the centre point M of the longitudinal connecting opening 3 here. For example, the illustrated first connecting direction VR1 is such an axis. The described axis extending through the centre point M as well as the first connecting direction VR1 are imaginary axes and constitute geometrical auxiliary elements facilitating the description of the embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking region 412, in sections, extends in a straight line which means that there are planar contact surfaces inside the transverse connecting opening 4 which benefit the transfer of momentums from or to another scaffold element 20. Such planar contact surfaces result in that, in a positive connection to another scaffold element 20, a uniform surface pressure is given which renders the transfer of high momentums possible without damage to the connection partner. In the illustrated embodiment, the rectilinearly extending sections of the blocking regions 412 are connected to each other by curved sections. With these curved sections, sharp edges are avoided which are obstructive during the connection to a scaffold element 20. The blocking region 412 is provided to positively receive a locking element 202 during a connection of the connecting disc 1 to a scaffold element 20. The blocking region 412 is disposed outside of the surface area enclosed by the receiving region 411. In the illustrated embodiment, two transverse connecting openings 4 are provided which are disposed opposite of each other and at a distance to the longitudinal connecting opening 3. Here, the blocking regions 412 of the two transverse connecting openings 4 face away from each other and from the longitudinal connecting opening 3, respectively. An imaginary direction or line between the two blocking regions 412 of the opposing transverse connecting openings 4 defines the first connecting direction VR1 which also extends through the centre point M of the longitudinal connecting opening 3. The first connecting direction VR1 bisects the blocking region 412 in a plan view of the first main surface 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the receiving region 411 is also designed so that it is axially symmetrical to the first connecting direction VR1. In an alternative embodiment, also a plurality of blocking regions 412 may be provided which respectively interrupt the receiving region 411. The provision of a plurality of blocking regions 412 may be used, for example, to render the connection of the locking element 202 of a scaffold element 20 in different positions or rotational directions relative to the connecting disc 1 possible. In this case, the plurality of blocking regions 412 is disposed at a distance to each other. Moreover, the blocking region 412 may also have a shape which is different from the illustrated embodiment. For example, the blocking region 412 may have a semicircular, triangular, rectangular, or other shape in a plan view of the first main surface 21. Furthermore, the shape of the receiving region 411 may also differ from the illustrated bell shape. For example, the receiving region 411 may have a circular, rectangular, polygonal, trapezoid, or other shape. Furthermore, the receiving region 411 may also have other interruptions to the blocking region 412 which are disposed outside of the shape or surface area continuously enclosed by the receiving region 411. Such interruptions may be provided, for example, as depressions for components of the scaffold element 20. Moreover, such interruptions may be provided for reducing the weight of the connecting disc. Depending on the embodiment of the interface S of the scaffold element 20, the transverse connecting opening 4 may also be implemented so that it is separate from the longitudinal connecting opening 3, a portion of the basic body 2 being disposed between the longitudinal connecting opening 3 and the transverse connecting opening 4 so that there is no transition between the two openings. Finally, it is also possible to provide more than the two illustrated transverse connecting openings 4 in the basic body 2. For example, also three, four, five, or six transverse connecting openings 4 may be uniformly or irregularly incorporated in the basic body 2.

In the basic body 2 of the illustrated embodiment of a connecting disc 1, further, two additional connecting openings 5 are incorporated which extend completely through the basic body 2 and, starting from the first main surface 21, extend perpendicular to the second main surface 22. The two additional connecting openings 5 are disposed opposite of each other and spaced-apart from each other and from the longitudinal connecting opening 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the two additional connecting openings 5 are positioned so that they are axially symmetrical to the first connecting direction VR1. The additional connecting openings 5 are also provided for the accommodation of an interface S of a scaffold element 20. In contrast to the transverse connecting openings 4, the additional connecting openings 5 have no blocking region 412. Each additional connecting opening 5 is delimited by a peripheral contour 51. This peripheral contour 51 is formed by the edge of the additional connecting opening 51 in a plan view of the first main surface 21 or the second main surface 22. On its side facing the centre point M, there is a transition between each additional connecting opening 5 and the longitudinal connecting opening 3. In its side facing away from the centre point M, each peripheral contour 51 of each additional connecting opening 5 comprises a curved contact area 511 which is a section of the peripheral contour 51. The peripheral contour 51 is provided for the accommodation of a connection 201 and a locking element 202 of a scaffold element 20. Here, the entire peripheral contour 51 positively receives the connection 201 and the locking element 202. However, in the receptacle of an interface S of a scaffold element 20 in an additional connecting opening 5a rotational degree of freedom of the scaffold element 20 about an axis perpendicular to the first main surface 21 or to the second main surface 22 will, at least partly, remain. This rotational degree of freedom is provided for by the locking element 202 abutting on and being capable of sliding along the curved contact area 511 during a connection. Therefore, no positive connection of the locking element 202 to the contact area is given tangential to the contact area 511. In case of a connection of an interface S of a scaffold element 20, particularly of its locking element 202, to the blocking region 412 of a transverse connecting opening 4, by contrast, a positive connection is established in a direction tangential to the section of the blocking region 412 located at the largest distance from centre point M. Therefore, a scaffold element 20 connected to a transverse connecting opening 4 has no rotational degree of freedom about an axis perpendicular to the first main surface 21 or to the second main surface 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the section of the peripheral contour 51 which is not formed by the contact area 511 is implemented in a bell shape. Here, the contact area 511 has the shape of a circular arc transitioning into the remaining portion of the peripheral contour 51 in a rounded fashion. The arrangement of the two additional connecting openings 5 around the longitudinal connecting opening 3 defines a second connecting direction VR2. This second connecting direction VR2 extends through the centre point M and through the two points of the contact areas 511 remotest from the centre point M. The second connecting direction VR2 extends perpendicular to the first connecting direction VR1 and parallel to the first main surface 21 or to the second main surface 22. In the illustrated embodiment of a connecting disc 1, the intersection points of the first connecting direction VR1 and the two blocking regions 412 and the two intersection points of the second connecting direction VR2 and the contact areas 511 are located on a common circular track around the centre point M of the longitudinal connecting opening 3. The, with respect to the centre point M, outermost points of the additional connecting openings 5 and the transverse connecting openings 4 are therefore equidistant from the centre point M and therefore also equidistant from the outer edge of the circular longitudinal connecting opening 3. In this way, interfaces S of scaffold elements 20 having the same shape and dimensions can be connected to both a transverse connecting opening 4 and an additional connecting opening 5. Therefore, a connecting disc 1 according to the illustrated embodiment, on the one hand, renders a connection of a scaffold element 20 to the transverse connecting opening 4 possible in which no rotational degree of freedom about an axis perpendicular to the first main surface 21 or to the second main surface 22 remains, and, on the other hand, a connection to the additional connecting opening 5 in which a rotational degree of freedom about an axis perpendicular to the first main surface 21 or to the second main surface 22 remains. The distances of the points of the transverse connecting opening 4 and the additional connecting opening 5 remotest from the centre point M may also differ from each other. In order to render a connection to identical interfaces S of a scaffold element 20 possible, the intersection points of the blocking region 412 and the first connecting direction 1 and of the contact area 511 and the second connecting direction are preferably located on concentric circles the diameters of which differ from each other by up to 10%. In the illustrated embodiment, two transverse connecting openings 4 and two additional connecting openings 5 are disposed around the centrally disposed longitudinal connecting opening 3 in a cross shape. Alternatively, it is also possible to provide a larger number of additional connecting openings 5. It is further possible to implement the distribution of transverse connecting openings 4 and additional connecting openings 5 in a different way. For example, two transverse connecting openings 4 may be disposed adjacent to each other, offset by 90° relative to each other around the centre point, and, opposingly, two additional connecting openings 5 offset by 90° relative to each other around the centre point may be disposed.

In the illustrated embodiment, altogether four circular connecting openings 6 extending perpendicular to the second main surface 22 starting from the first main surface 21 are incorporated in the basic body 2. These connecting openings 6 are provided for the connection of additional scaffold elements 20 to the connecting disc 1. Furthermore, starting from the first main connecting surface 21, a plurality of depressions 7 not extending through the entire basic body 2 is incorporated in the basic body 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the depressions 7 correspond to part of a sphere and are also provided for attaching or securing additional scaffold elements 20. On the edges of the basic body 2, altogether four set-back sections 231 having the form of part of a circular cylinder here are incorporated as part of the edge surface 23. These set-back sections 231 are provided for the accommodation or abutment of a portion of a scaffold element 20.

FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the lower side of an embodiment of a connecting disc 1 according to the invention together with a scaffold element 20 connected thereto. In FIG. 2, the connecting disc of FIG. 1 is illustrated from below from a direction perpendicular to the second main surface 22. The connecting disc 1 is connected to a scaffold element 20 illustrated on the lower right. Here, the scaffold element 20 is formed by a horizontal transom. The scaffold element 20 was introduced into and positively connected to a transverse connecting opening 4 from the first main surface 21 disposed opposite of the illustrated second main surface 22. The locking element 202 of the scaffold element 20 facing downwards to the right in the illustration was positively introduced into the blocking region 412. The connection 201 of the scaffold element 20 was introduced into the receiving region 411. Here, a section of the connection 201 is introduced into the transition between the transverse connection opening 4 and the longitudinal connecting opening 3. Here, a positive connection is established between the transition between the transverse connection opening 4 and the longitudinal connecting opening 3 and the section of the connection 201 introduced into this transition. Alternatively, it is also possible that no such transition is present between the transverse connecting opening 4 and the longitudinal connecting opening 3, or that no portion of the connection 201 is introduced into this transition. In the illustrated embodiment, two opposing transverse connecting openings 4 are provided which are arranged so that they are axially symmetrical to the second connecting direction VR2 and which are formed so that they are respectively axially symmetrical to the first connecting direction VR1. Therefore, the transverse connecting opening 4 shown on the top left corresponds to a mirror image of the transverse connecting opening 4 shown on the bottom right around the second connecting direction VR2. In the following, the peripheral contour 41 of the transverse connecting opening 4 shown on the top left is described. Correspondingly, the description also applies to the peripheral contour 41 of the transverse connecting opening 4 shown on the bottom right. Here, the peripheral contour 41 is formed by the edge extending between the second main surface 22 and the side wall of the transverse connecting opening 4 in the interior of the basic body 2. The peripheral contour 41 comprises a receiving region 411 having a bell shape here which, starting from a first side of the transition between the longitudinal connecting opening 3 and the transverse connecting opening 4, extends to the second side of this transition. In the illustrated embodiment, the entire receiving region 411 is implemented so that it is continuous and has no sharp edges or fissures. The blocking region 412 interrupts the receiving region 411 on its side facing away from the centre point M. In the illustration, the blocking region 412 is also indicated by a dashed line in FIG. 2. For describing the arrangement of the blocking region 412, an imaginary auxiliary geometry is introduced in the following. In the illustrated embodiment, the two ends of the receiving region 411 adjoining the blocking region 412 converge in their extension. These extensions are continuous with respect to the ends of the receiving region 411 adjoining the blocking region 412. The continuous extensions of the ends of the receiving region 411 adjoining the blocking region 412 are symbolised by dotted lines in the illustration. These imaginary continuous extensions close the enclosed surface area defined by the receiving region 411. Here, the continuous extensions intersect the first connecting direction VR1 in the intersection point. The intersecting continuous extensions form a continuous connection SV of the two ends the contour of the receiving region 411 adjoining the blocking region 412. This imaginary auxiliary geometry serves to define a boundary of the surface area enclosed by the connecting region 411 together with the contour of the receiving region 411. Therefore, the continuous connection SV constitutes an imaginary extension of the connecting region 411 and delimits part of the surface area enclosed by the receiving region 411. According to the invention, the blocking region 412 extends outside of this surface area enclosed by the connecting region 411. In this way, it is achieved that a locking element 202 projecting beyond the connection 201 of a scaffold element 20 can be positively inserted into the blocking region 412 disposed outside of the connecting region 411. In the connected state of the connecting disc 1 and the scaffold element 20, then, a positive connection is established which is configured so that a rotation of the scaffold element 20 about an axis perpendicular to the second main surface 22 is not possible. In other words, the positive connection of the blocking region 412 to the introduced locking element 202 blocks any rotational degree of freedom about such an axis perpendicular to the main surface 22. Owing to this positive connection, a connection of the transverse connection opening 4 to a scaffold element 20 can transfer considerably larger torques than a connection of such a scaffold element 20 to an additional connecting opening 5. At the same time, the orientation of the scaffold element 20 with respect to the connecting disc 1 is positively defined by the insertion or engagement of the locking element 202 into/in the blocking region 412. In the case illustrated in FIG. 2, the longitudinal axis of the scaffold element 20 which extends to the lower right here is oriented parallel to the first connecting direction VR1 and perpendicular to the second connecting direction VR2 due to the engagement of the locking element 202 in the blocking region 412. Owing to the positive connection, this orientation is maintained with high precision which improves the stable and precise assembly of a scaffold section from a plurality of scaffold elements. Both the receiving region 411 and the blocking region 412 may have different shapes. Preferably, neither the receiving region 411 nor the blocking region 412 have sharp edges. At least a section of the contour of the blocking region 412 is arranged at an angle W other than 0° to the continuous connection SV. This is to be understood to mean that at least a section of the contour of the blocking region 412 is arranged at an angle absorbing the transfer of a momentum acting in the circumferential direction of the receiving region 411 to the continuous extension SV. In the illustrated embodiment, the blocking region 412 is implemented in a U shape, and the two arms of the U, or tangents T to the arms, are substantially arranged at the angle of 90° to the continuous connection SV of the receiving region 411. With such an angle of 90° of the adjoining sections, a particularly excellent transfer of a momentum is possible. However, it is also possible to arrange sections of the blocking region 412 at a smaller angle, for example, at an angle of 60° to the continuous extension SV. Moreover, it is possible that the blocking region 412 extends in a plurality of different angles to the continuous extension SV. This is the case, for example, if the blocking region 412 is formed by a circular arc, which, starting from the continuous extension SV, extends outside of the surface area enclosed by the receiving region 411. What is essential in the blocking region 412 is that it is disposed outside of the surface area enclosed by the receiving region 411, and that the blocking region 412, at least in sections, is oriented so that an effective transfer of a momentum from the locking element 202 to the blocking region 412 is possible. For the interrelations and the function of the other elements of the connecting disc such as, for example, the connecting openings 6, the description relating to FIG. 1 is made reference to.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a scaffold section 100 according to the invention. The scaffold section 100 comprises a standard 10 the central axis MA of which is vertically oriented in the illustration. A connecting disc 1 according to the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 is attached to the standard 10. By means of this connecting disc 1, altogether three scaffold elements 20 are connected to the standard 10. Here, the scaffold elements 20 are all implemented as horizontal transoms and extend in different directions in a common horizontal plane.

The standard 10 is based on a connection sleeve 30 formed by a pipe section having a circular cross- section here. The connection sleeve 30 may also be longer or shorter than illustrated. Moreover, the connection sleeve 30 may also have another cross-sectional shape, for example, a rectangular or square cross-section. The connection sleeve 30 has two end faces 301 only the upper end face 301 of which is illustrated in FIG. 3. Onto or into the upper end face 301, a connection interface 302 serving the connection of the standard 10 to other scaffold elements is introduced. For example, two identically designed standards 10 can be connected to each other in the direction of the central axis MA by means of the connection interface 302. For this purpose, the lower, not illustrated connection interface 302 may be designed complementary in shape with the upper interface 302. In this case, the lower connection interface 302 of a first standard 10 can be inserted into and thereby connected to the upper connection interface 302 of a second standard 10. A connecting disc 1 is attached to the outer circumferential surface of the connection sleeve 30. The connection sleeve 30 is guided through the longitudinal connecting opening 3 of the connecting disc and introduced into it. A connection of the connection sleeve 30 to the connecting disc 1 may be established, for example, by welding. Alternatively, other connecting techniques such as, for example, press fitting, or a screw connection are possible. The connecting disc 1 is oriented perpendicular to the central axis MA of the connection sleeve 30 with its first main surface 21 facing upwards and its second main surface 22 facing downwards. The direction of extension of the two transverse connecting openings 4 and the two additional connecting openings 5 extends parallel to the central axis MA. The transition of each transverse connecting opening 4 and each additional connecting opening 5 to the centrally arranged longitudinal connecting opening 3 is delimited by the outer surface of the connection sleeve 30. With respect to details on the connecting disc 1, FIGS. 1 and 2 are made reference to. The standard 10 further comprises a connecting hook 303 attached to the outer circumferential surface of the connection sleeve 30 and extending radially away from the central axis MA. Between the connecting disc 1 and the connecting hook 303, there is a distance in the direction of the central axis MA. The connecting hook 303 is provided for the connection of the standard 10 to another scaffold element. This other scaffold element may be constituted, for example, by a railing mounted on the connecting hook 303. The connecting hook 303 extends radially away from the central axis MA and the outer circumferential surface of the connection sleeve 30 in the direction of the first connecting direction VR1. Therefore, the connecting hook 303 is oriented in the same direction in which one of the two transverse connecting openings 4 is oriented. The connecting hook 303 therefore extends in a direction which, starting from the centre point M of the longitudinal connecting opening 3 of the connecting disc 1, extends towards the blocking region 412 of the respective transverse connecting opening 4 facing the rear right in the illustration. In the scaffold section 100, the connecting hook 303 is preferably oriented so that it faces the portion of the scaffold section 100 in which a treading layer is installed which is walked on by working persons. In this way, a railing protecting the working persons from falling from the scaffold section and the treading layer can be mounted on the connecting hook 303. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting hook 303 is oriented in the direction in which the treading layer is to be mounted. The direction which, starting from the central axis MA, extends in a horizontal plane in direction of the treading layer is defined as the transverse direction GQ of the scaffold. A direction perpendicular to the transverse direction of the scaffold is defined as the longitudinal direction GL of the scaffold. Preferably, the scaffold section 100 is considerably longer in the longitudinal direction GL of the scaffold than in the transverse direction GQ of the scaffold. In the transverse direction GQ of the scaffold, usually, only two standards 10 are provided parallel to each other in a row in the scaffold section 100. In the longitudinal direction GL of the scaffold, on the other hand, preferably a plurality of standards 10 is arranged in parallel in a row. Typically, the longitudinal direction GL of the scaffold extends parallel to a facade or another surface of a building on which work is to be carried out from the scaffold section 10. Usually, the transverse direction GQ of the scaffold extends perpendicular to such a facade or other surface of a building. In the illustrated embodiment of a scaffold section 100, the standard 10 is oriented about its central axis MA so that the first connecting direction VR1 of the connecting disc 1 extends parallel to the transverse direction GQ of the scaffold, and that the second connecting direction VR2 of the connecting disc 1 extends parallel to the longitudinal direction GL of the scaffold.

The three scaffold elements 20 embodied by horizontal transoms are only partly shown in FIG. 3. Respectively one end of a scaffold element 20 comprising an interface S disposed on its end face can be seen. The interface S serves the connection to the standard 10, particularly to the connecting disc 1. The illustrated scaffold elements and their interfaces S are designed so that they can also be connected to known standards or connecting discs. Each interface S comprises a connection 201 which is implemented so that it is immobile relative to the remaining scaffold element 20 and which is inserted into a transverse connecting opening 4 or an additional connecting opening 5 during the connection to the connecting disc and extends completely through it in the connected state. Each interface S further comprises a locking element 202 which is implemented so that it is movable relative to the connection 201. Owing to this movability, the locking element 202, at least in sections, can be inserted into the connection 201. This state is referred to as the unlocked state. For establishing the connection of the interface S to the connecting disc 1, then, the locking element 202 is moved relative to the connection 201 so that it projects further beyond the connection 201. In this way, a positive connection stably connecting the standard 10 and the scaffold element 20 to each other is established between the interface S and the connecting disc 1. With the movement of the locking element 202 relative to the connection 201, on the one hand, a positive connection is established in a plane perpendicular to the central axis MA, at least when the interface S is connected to a transverse connecting opening 4. In this case, the locking element 202 enters the blocking region 412 and thereby establishes a positive connection preventing a rotational movement of the scaffold element 20 relative to the standard 10 about an axis parallel to the central axis MA. As can be seen in FIG. 3, the locking element 202 projects further beyond the connection 201 below the connecting disc 1 than above the connecting disc 1. In this way, a positive connection is also established in an, in the illustration, vertically oriented direction. This positive connection in a direction parallel to the central axis MA is also established when the interface S is connected to an additional connecting opening 5.

The longitudinal axis of the scaffold element 20 disposed on the rear right in the illustration is oriented parallel to the transverse direction GQ of the scaffold. This scaffold element 20 is connected to one of the two transverse connecting openings 4 by means of its interface S, the locking element 202 of the interface S being introduced into the blocking region 412. In this way, the scaffold element 20 is positively secured against a rotation about an axis parallel to the central axis MA. Through this connection, therefore, also momentums acting on the scaffold element 20 about an axis parallel to the central axis MA can be transferred. The illustrated scaffold section is therefore particularly stable in the transverse direction GQ of the scaffold so that a movement, particularly an unsteadiness of the scaffold section is considerably reduced or completely prevented. The longitudinal axes of two other scaffold elements 20 are oriented parallel to the longitudinal direction GL of the scaffold, and their interfaces S are respectively connected to an additional connecting opening 5. In these two scaffold elements 20, the locking element 202 respectively abuts on and can slide along the curved contact area 511. In this way, a degree of freedom of the two scaffold elements 20 connected to an additional connecting opening 5 is given in a rotational direction about an axis parallel to the central axis MA. However, this degree of freedom is limited since the locking element 202 can only slide along the curved contact area 511. On the edge of this curved contact area 511, the locking element 202 will then abut on the remaining peripheral contour 51, and a further relative movement of the scaffold element 20 relative to the connecting disc 1 is prevented. Owing to this limited rotational degree of freedom which an interface S exhibits in case of a connection to an additional connecting opening 5, a scaffold section 100 can be adjusted to a non-linear extension of a facade or other building surface in the longitudinal direction GL of the scaffold. In practice, such an easy adjustability of the extension of the longitudinal direction GL of the scaffold is of major relevance since a scaffold section has to be actually erected rectilinearly in the rarest of cases. The illustrated embodiment of a standard 10 and of a scaffold section 100 is particularly advantageous since, along the longitudinal direction GL of the scaffold, a limited rotational degree of freedom is given in the connection of the scaffold element 20 to the standard 10, and, at the same time, perpendicular thereto, no rotational degree of freedom for a relative movement of the scaffold element 20 with respect to the standard 10 is given in the transverse direction GQ of the scaffold, so that an extremely stable connection is provided. An accordingly designed scaffold section 10 is therefore flexible and adjustable in its structure in the longitudinal direction GL of the scaffold and renders the transfer of larger momentums possible in the transverse direction GQ of the scaffold so that a high stability of the scaffold section 100 is given.

The interaction of a transverse connection opening 4 with a locking element 202 is further advantageous in a method for connecting a standard 10 to a scaffold element 20 in a scaffold section 100 since this interaction facilitates and ensures a correct alignment of a scaffold element 20 relative to the standard 10 in the transverse direction GQ of the scaffold. In such a method for establishing a connection, first, the connection 201 is inserted into the receiving region 411 of a transverse connecting opening 4. During this insertion, the interface S is in the unlocked state. Then, the scaffold element 20 is rotated about a a rotational axis parallel to the central axis MA until the locking element 202 is aligned relative to the blocking region 412. Only in this alignment, it is possible to move the locking element 202 relative to the connection 201 so that it enters the blocking region 412. This entry is optically clearly visible and also haptically tangible. If the scaffold element 20 and the standard 10 are not correctly aligned relative to each other, an insertion of the locking element 202 into the blocking region 412 is not possible which will be noticed by the person assembling the scaffold section 100. When such an incorrect alignment is noticed the person can change the orientation until the locking element 202 is insertable into the blocking region 412. In this way, it is ensured that a scaffold element 20 connected to a transverse connecting opening 4 is always correctly and stably connected in the correct alignment to the connecting disc 1.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

• • 1 Connecting disc
  • 2 Basic body
  • 21 First main surface
  • 22 Second main surface
  • 23 Edge surface
  • 231 Set-back portion
  • 3 Longitudinal connecting opening
  • 4 Transverse connecting opening
  • 41 Peripheral contour
  • 411 Receiving region
  • 412 Blocking region
  • 5 Additional connecting opening
  • 51 Peripheral contour
  • 511 Contact area
  • 6 Connecting opening
  • 7 Depression
  • 20 Scaffold element
  • 201 Connection
  • 202 Locking element
  • 30 Connection sleeve
  • 301 End face
  • 302 Connection interface
  • 303 Connecting hook
  • MA Central axis
  • VR1 First connecting direction
  • VR2 Second connecting direction
  • SV Continuous connection
  • M Centre point
  • S Interface
  • T Tangent
  • GL Longitudinal direction of the scaffold
  • GQ Transverse direction of the scaffold