Highly Cantilevered Inspection Stand

Client Need:

Spika’s client is a world leader in aerospace and defense. They required a highly customized work platform for an inspection process. The platform needed to conform to a specific rounded shape and have height adjustability of approximately 40”. It had to support 1000 lbs. per module and required a significant cantilever of over 17’. It was imperative that the platform not touch the equipment in the fully loaded state.

Solution:

Spika identified the best approach to the project through virtual meetings with the customer and proposed an initial concept. From there, the two teams worked together to finalize the solution. Certain elements of the new design required significant research and development. Spika was proactive in letting the client know what the unknowns and risks were but committed to putting in the work to make it all possible.

The client was highly satisfied with the solution, particularly the limited deflection and feeling of stability in light of the aluminum construction and cantilever.

Technical Information:

• The final product consisted of two individual deck modules and one staircase, all constructed of aluminum.
• All units utilized electric actuation for height adjustability. They could be adjusted independently or linked together and adjusted synchronously.
• On-deck electric service was installed in four locations around the platform.
• The decks could fold down to reduce storage space requirements. Electric actuators powered the folding and unfolding.
• The interior railing was designed for quick and tool-free removal and storage on the exterior railing to accommodate multiple access points and configurations of the tool.
• The staircase had a larger height range than the decks, around 94”, and could be used independently in other processes.
• Railing on the staircase landing was designed for quick and tool-free removal and reconfiguration to increase the versatility of the system.