Lifting frame

Abstract

A lifting frame used for lifting structures by using two cranes. The lifting frame is preferably triangular in cross section and is laterally and diagonally braced. The lifting frame is designed for temporary attachment directly to the structure to be lifted and installed. Crane attachment points are provided at opposite ends of the lifting frame.

What is claimed as invention is:  
     
         1 . A lifting frame for use in lifting and installing a structure on a substructure, comprising: 
 a. a lattice frame; and    b. means provided on said lattice frame for temporarily connecting the frame to the structure to be lifted.    
     
     
         2 . The lifting frame of  claim 1 , wherein said lattice frame is triangular in cross section.  
     
     
         3 . The lifting frame of  claim 1 , wherein said means for temporarily connecting the frame to the structure to be lifted comprises a plurality of links designed to be pinned to said frame and the structure to be lifted.  
     
     
         4 . The lifting frame of  claim 1 , wherein said means for temporarily connecting the frame to the structure to be lifted comprises a plurality of links welded to said frame and to the structure to be lifted.  
     
     
         5 . The lifting frame of  claim 1 , wherein said means for temporarily connecting the frame to the structure to be lifted comprises a plurality of slings attached between said frame and the structure to be lifted.  
     
     
         6 . A lifting frame for use in lifting and installing a structure on a substructure, comprising: 
 a. a lattice frame that is triangular in cross section; and    b. means provided on said lattice frame for temporarily connecting the frame to the structure to be lifted comprising a plurality of links designed to be pinned to said frame and the structure to be lifted.    
     
     
         7 . A method for lifting and installing a structure on a substructure, comprising the steps of: 
 a. providing a lattice frame that includes means for temporarily connecting the frame to the structure to be lifted;    b. positioning the lattice frame over the structure to be lifted;    c. connecting the lattice frame to the structure;    d. lifting and positioning the structure over a substructure;    e. lowering the structure onto the substructure;    f. disconnecting the lattice frame from the structure; and    g. lifting the lattice frame away from the structure.