Cantilevered loading platform with hollow core slab above

[Engineer2025]

Hi all

I want to install a cantilevered loading platform that requires support from the above floor via compression props.
These will act as an apwards vertical load on the slab above, which is made of prestressed hollow core slabs.
The idea is to use a counter balance on the slab above, which is not designed for negative moments.

Am I missing something, such as load distribution, safety factors, etc?

 

[JAE]

A sketch might help get more answers.

 

[KootK]

I'll play along:

1) If you're going to do the counterweight thing, is there a reason not to just put the counterweight on the back span of the loading dock framing?

2) To assess load distribution, we'll need a plan sketch or description of how you're laying thing outs. If your counterweights will be right over your compressions struts, probably not a big deal. If not, it's certainly something to consider.

3) I feel that the tricky bit is dealing with all of the likely loading scenarios:

- Counterweight present but dock not loaded.

- Counterweight present with dock fully loaded.

- Counterweight present with dock partially loaded.

- etc.

 

[Engineer2025]

Thanks. I've also added a drawing for clarification.
The counter weights are already in place. Just need to mark them clearly not to be moved, which might be an issue.
I can place them almost above the struts. maybe assembling and dismantling require some additional thought.
Cheers!

 

[HTURKAK]

The counter weights are already in place. Just need to mark them clearly not to be moved, which might be an issue.
I can place them almost above the struts. maybe assembling and dismantling require some additional thought.
Cheers!

OK fine.. Perform calculations for hollow core slabs for additional load 2P and supporting reaction beam for load 3P and see . If OK , provide some bracings for props. There are similar scaffolding at tunnel formwork systems.