U.S. patent application number 10/519546 was filed with the patent office on 2006-03-23 for modular platform, walkway or ramp.
Invention is credited to Trevor Ross Suggate.
Application Number | 20060059636 10/519546 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 30001237 |
Filed Date | 2006-03-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060059636 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Suggate; Trevor Ross |
March 23, 2006 |
Modular platform, walkway or ramp
Abstract
The present invention relates generally to a modular ramp (10)
formed of prefabricated components. The modular ramp (10) includes
a raked floor (12), elongate members in the form of floor pillars
(14) and (15), and hand rails (16). The raked floor (12) is formed
of a number prefabricated floor segments, an example of which are
prefabricated floor panels (32) which extend between adjacent
prefabricated floor bearers (34). The floor bearers (34) are
supported by the floor pillars (14) and (15). The prefabricated
floor bearers (34) have sleeves (56) and 58 attached at each end
for respective receipt of the floor pillars (14) and (15). The
pillars (14) and (15) are thus arranged for longitudinal movement
relative to the sleeves such as (56) and locating pins (83) retain
the pillars (14) or (15) relative to the sleeve (56).
Inventors: |
Suggate; Trevor Ross; (New
South Wales, AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PILLSBURY WINTHROP SHAW PITTMAN LLP
1650 TYSONS BOULEVARD
MCLEAN
VA
22102
US
|
Family ID: |
30001237 |
Appl. No.: |
10/519546 |
Filed: |
June 27, 2003 |
PCT Filed: |
June 27, 2003 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/AU03/00829 |
371 Date: |
August 23, 2005 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
14/69.5 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04F 11/1865 20130101;
E04G 27/00 20130101; E04G 21/3209 20130101; E04G 1/28 20130101;
E04G 5/14 20130101; E04F 11/002 20130101; E04G 1/152 20130101; E04G
1/20 20130101; E04F 2011/007 20130101; E04G 21/3204 20130101; A61G
3/061 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
014/069.5 |
International
Class: |
E01D 1/00 20060101
E01D001/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jun 28, 2002 |
AU |
PS 3274 |
Dec 13, 2002 |
AU |
2002953317 |
Claims
1. A deck support which is adjustable to support a deck of a
platform, walkway or ramp at a predetermined elevation, the deck
support comprising a prefabricated moveable member arranged to
engage a corresponding elongate member for retention and
longitudinal movement relative to the elongate member, the
prefabricated moveable member having an extension arranged to
directly support the deck laterally of the elongate member by
contact with an underneath surface of the deck and wherein the
prefabricated moveable member is locatable at predetermined
longitudinal positions relative to the elongate member.
2. A deck support which is adjustable to support a deck of a
platform, walkway or ramp at a predetermined elevation, the deck
support comprising a prefabricated moveable member and a
corresponding elongate member, the prefabricated moveable member
being arranged to engage the elongate member prefabricated moveable
member for retention and longitudinal movement relative to the
elongate member, the prefabricated moveable member having an
extension arranged to directly support the deck laterally of the
elongate member by contact with an underneath surface of the deck
and wherein the prefabricated moveable member is locatable at
predetermined longitudinal positions relative to the elongate
member.
3. A deck support as claimed in claim 1 wherein the prefabricated
moveable member comprises a slideable member arranged to slide
axially relative to the elongate member.
4. A deck support as claimed in claim 3 wherein the slidable member
is a collar, sleeve or other tubular member or partly tubular
member having a section corresponding to a partial section of a
tubular member.
5. A deck support as claimed in claim 3 wherein the slidable member
has a hole formed in one or more of its walls arranged for
alignment with corresponding longitudinally spaced holes of the
elongate member and receipt of a locating pin.
6. A deck support as claimed in claim 3 wherein the deck support
comprises a slideable member position at opposite ends of said
extension.
7. A deck support as claimed in claim 1 wherein the extension
comprises a support bearer.
8. A deck support as claimed in claim 7 wherein the deck support
has two or more support bearers that extend from a common slideable
member.
9. A deck support as claimed in claim 2 wherein a foot extends from
an end of the elongate member, the foot being pivotable relative to
the elongate member to accommodate for sloping supporting
surfaces.
10. A deck support as claimed in claim 1 wherein the prefabricated
moveable member further comprises a handrail support arranged to
support one or more prefabricated handrails above the deck.
11. A deck support as claimed in claim 10 wherein the handrail
support member is arranged to retain a lower end of a handrail
upright of said prefabricated handrail.
12. A deck support as claimed in 10 wherein the handrail support is
arranged to receive two adjacent handrail uprights of corresponding
adjacent prefabricated handrails.
13. A deck support as claimed in claim 10 wherein the handrail
support comprises a collar, sleeve or other tubular member or a
partly tubular member having a section corresponding to a partial
section of a tubular member.
14. A deck support as claimed in 12 wherein the handrail support is
arranged for inclination of said handrail upright relative to said
elongate member, in a plane which is substantially normal to said
extension.
15. A deck support as claimed in claim 12 wherein the extension
covers a lower end of said handrail support to prevent passage of
said handrail upright therethrough.
16. A deck support as claimed in claim 10 further comprising two or
more further handrail supports positioned at predetermined
positions along the extension.
17. A deck support as claimed in claim 2 wherein the elongate
member comprises a roof support for supporting a roof.
18. A deck support as claimed in claim 17 wherein the elongate
member is arranged to slideably receive a roof support upright for
abutment of a lower end of the roof support upright against an
upper edge of said prefabricated moveable member.
19. A method of erecting a platform, walkway or ramp comprising the
steps of: providing a plurality of deck supports which are
adjustable to support a deck of a platform, walkway or ramp at a
predetermined elevation, each of the deck supports comprising a
prefabricated moveable member and a corresponding elongate member,
the prefabricated moveable member being arranged to engage the
elongate member for retention and longitudinal movement relative to
the elongate member, the prefabricated moveable member having an
extension arranged to directly support the deck laterally of the
elongate member by contact with an underneath surface of the deck
and the prefabricated moveable member being locatable at
predetermined longitudinal positions relative to the elongate
member; adjusting the deck supports by longitudinally moving said
prefabricated moveable members relative to corresponding elongate
members; positioning and orientating the deck supports so that
their extensions are arranged to support corresponding portions of
a deck at a desired elevation; and placing the deck onto the
extensions so that the extensions support corresponding portions of
the deck to form an erected platform, walkway or ramp.
20. A modular apparatus for constructing a platform, walkway or
ramp, said modular apparatus comprising: a plurality of
prefabricated deck segments arranged to collectively form a deck of
a platform, walkway or ramp; and a plurality of deck supports for
supporting the prefabricated deck segments to form said deck;
wherein each deck support is adjustable to support a deck of a
platform, walkway or ramp at a predetermined elevation, each deck
support comprising a prefabricated moveable member and a
corresponding elongate member, the prefabricated moveable member
being arranged to engage the elongate member for retention and
longitudinal movement relative to the elongate member, the
prefabricated prefabricted moveable member having an extension
arranged to directly support the deck laterally of the elongate
member by contact with an underneath surface of the deck, the
prefabricated moveable member being locatable at predetermined
longitudinal positions relative to the elongate member.
21. A modular apparatus as claimed in claim 20 further comprising
one or more prefabricated handrails, each prefabricated handrail
comprising one or more rails supported by one or more handrail
uprights and being arranged for attachment to one or more said deck
supports.
22. A modular apparatus as claimed in claim 20 wherein one or more
edges of said prefabricated deck segments are folded to provide
adjacent first and second angular regions.
23. A modular apparatus as claimed in claim 22 wherein, in use, the
first angular region extends upwardly, substantially normally of a
plane in which the deck segment lies and the second angular region
extends downwardly and away from the deck segment to form an
enclosed angle with the first angular region of approximately
45.degree..
24. A platform, walkway or ramp assembly, said assembly comprising:
a plurality of deck supports which are each adjustable to support a
deck of a platform, walkway or ramp at a predetermined elevation,
each deck support comprising a prefabricated moveable member and a
corresponding elongate member, the prefabricated moveable member
being arranged to engage the elongate member for retention and
longitudinal movement relative to the elongate member, the
prefabricated member having an extension arranged to directly
support the deck laterally of the elongate member by contact with
an underneath surface of the deck and the prefabricated moveable
member being locatable at predetermined longitudinal positions
relative to the elongate member; and a plurality of prefabricated
deck segments; wherein said prefabricated deck segments are
supported by the extensions of said deck supports to form a
platform, walkway or ramp.
25. A platform, walkway or ramp assembly as claimed in claim 24
further comprising one or more prefabricated handrails, each
prefabricated handrail comprising one or more rails supported by
one or more handrail uprights and being arranged for attachment to
one or more said deck supports.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to platforms, walkways or
ramps and in particular to modular pre-built or temporary
platforms, walkways and ramps. However, the present invention is
not limited to temporary platform, walkways and ramp but also
relates to permanent platforms, walkways and ramps.
BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION
[0002] A large number of existing buildings do not include
wheelchair access and as such there is a need to be able to modify
existing buildings to include ramp access. While ramps can be
retrofitted to buildings, they are typically designed for a
specific building and therefore cannot usually be duplicated for
other buildings.
[0003] There is also a need for effective ramps for new buildings,
and for cost effective platforms and walkways.
[0004] Patent searches have revealed three patent specifications,
namely U.S. Pat. No. 5,740,575, and Australian patent No. 577569
and associated Australian patent No. 589013, which disclose ramp
kits comprising modular components that can be assembled to form
ramps. The ramp kit of U.S. Pat. No. 5,740,575 discloses a stand
having support rails which extend between corresponding support
posts, the rails being height adjustable to support an inclined
ramp surface at a particular position along its length. However,
the ramp of this US specification has a number of significant
limitations. Firstly, the support stand is relatively bulky making
it difficult to transport the components which are required to form
a ramp. Secondly, the range of height adjustment is quite limited
and thirdly, height adjustment of each stand is reasonably time
consuming as it involves alignment of holes formed in each end of
two support rails with holes of support posts for subsequent
insertion of two locating bolts.
[0005] Australian patent Nos. 577569 and 589013 disclose a ramp kit
having threaded support posts which are height adjustable to
support an inclined ramp surface at a particular position along its
length. Height adjustment is provided by threadable movement of a
support nut along the length of threaded support post. However, the
ramps disclosed in these Australian patents appear to be quite
cumbersome and costly to manufacture. Furthermore, their stability
may be less than desirable in certain applications.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a deck
support which is adjustable to support a deck of a platform,
walkway or ramp at a predetermined elevation, the deck support
comprising a prefabricated moveable member arranged to engage a
corresponding elongate member for retention and longitudinal
movement relative to the elongate member, the prefabricated
moveable member having an extension arranged to directly support
the deck laterally of the elongate member by contact with an
underneath surface of the deck and wherein the prefabricated
moveable member is locatable at predetermined longitudinal
positions relative to the elongate member.
[0007] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a deck
support which is adjustable to support a deck of a platform,
walkway or ramp at a predetermined elevation, the deck support
comprising a prefabricated moveable member and a corresponding
elongate member, the prefabricated moveable member being arranged
to engage the elongate member for retention and longitudinal
movement relative to the elongate member, the prefabricated
moveable member having an extension arranged to directly support
the deck laterally of the elongate member by contact with an
underneath surface of the deck and wherein the prefabricated
moveable member is locatable at predetermined longitudinal
positions relative to the elongate member.
[0008] The prefabricated moveable member is preferably a slideable
member arranged to slide along at least part of the longitudinal
length of said elongate member.
[0009] In one embodiment of the second aspect of the present
invention, the elongate member is a slotted tube and the slideable
member is arranged to slide axially within the tube, the slot
allowing for axial movement of the extension. However, in the
preferred embodiment, the slideable member is arranged to at least
partially encircle the elongate member for slideable axial movement
relative to the elongate member.
[0010] The slideable member may be a collar, sleeve or other
tubular member, for example of round square, rectangular, or
c-shaped section. The slideable member may be a partly tubular
member having a section corresponding to a partial section of a
tubular member. Alternatively, the slideable member may be a
tubular member having a section corresponding to a combination of
said partly tubular members.
[0011] The slideable member preferably has a hole formed in one or
more of its one or more walls arranged for alignment with
corresponding axially spaced holes of the elongate member and
receipt for a locating pin for retention of the elongate
member.
[0012] In the preferred embodiment, the elongate member comprises a
tube or rod correspondingly shaped to the slideable member and may
be formed of a metallic material.
[0013] The extension may comprise a support lug which is arranged
to extend normally of a longitudinal axis of the elongate member.
Suitably, the extension comprises a support bearer. In the
preferred embodiment, the deck support comprises two prefabricated
moveable members positioned at opposite ends of said support
bearer. The preferred embodiment of the first and second aspect of
the present invention comprises another form of the deck support
which has two or more support bearers that extend from a common
slideable member.
[0014] The support bearer may be formed of any suitable material
and may be a support beam.
[0015] The deck support of the second aspect of the present
invention preferable further comprises a foot member arranged for
attachment to an end of the elongate member. The foot member is
preferably removably attachable to the elongate member and may have
a cavity for receipt of an end of the elongate member. The foot
member is preferably pivotable relative to the elongate member to
accommodate sloping supporting surfaces. The foot member may
comprise a plate. The foot member may be integrally formed with the
elongate member.
[0016] Suitably, the elongate member is arranged to allow any
required range of adjustment of the deck support. However, the
maximum range of adjustment typically required is 1.2 meters. A
range of adjustment of 700 mm should be suitable for most platform,
walkway or ramp applications, and a range of adjustment of 500 mm
is likely to be most commonly required. Therefore, the preferred
embodiment provides at least three different elongate members
providing the different ranges of adjustment to above. In an
alternative embodiment, the elongate member is adjustable in
length. In this alterative embodiment, the required range of
adjustment of the deck support is preferably provided by a
combination of adjustment of the length of the elongate member and
axial movement of the prefabricated moveable member. However, the
required adjustment of the deck support of the first and second
aspects of the present invention may be provided solely by
adjustment of the length of the elongate member in which case
movement of the prefabricated moveable member is not required. In
another alternative embodiment, the length of the elongate member
is sufficient to accommodate the ranges of adjustment referred to
above.
[0017] The length of the elongate member may be adjustable by
attachment of another elongate member. The length of the elongate
member may also be telescopically adjustable.
[0018] The prefabricated moveable member preferably further
comprises a handrail support arranged to support one or more
prefabricated handrails above the deck.
[0019] Suitably, said prefabricated moveable member comprises a
handrail support member arranged to support one or more
prefabricated handrails above said deck. The handrail support
member is preferably arranged to receive a lower end of a handrail
upright of a prefabricated handrail. The preferred embodiment
includes a handrail support member which is arranged to receive two
adjacent uprights of different prefabricated handrails.
[0020] The handrail support member may comprise a collar, sleeve or
other tubular member, for example of round, square or rectangular
or c-shaped section. The handrail support member may also be a
partly tubular member having a section of corresponding to a
partial section of a tubular member. Alternatively, the handrail
support member may be a tubular member having a section
corresponding to a combination of said partly tubular members.
[0021] The handrail support member may be oversized for inclination
of said handrail upright relative to said elongate member, in a
plane which is substantially normal to said extension. Oversized
handrail support members enable prefabricated handrails having
handrail uprights which are normal of corresponding rails to be
used with both inclined and horizontal portions of a deck.
[0022] The handrail support member preferably comprises handrail
upright abutting means arranged to abut a lower end of said
handrail up right. The handrail upright abutting means preferably
comprises an end portion of an external surface of said support
bearer.
[0023] In the preferred embodiment, said extension comprises one or
more handrail support members positioned at predetermined positions
along its length. One form of the deck support of the preferred
embodiment includes a support bearer having two handrail support
members positioned adjacent each other at a region approximately
midway along its length.
[0024] The elongate member may comprise a roof support for
supporting a roof. Suitably, said roof support comprises said
elongate member and may include the prefabricated moveable member.
In the preferred embodiment, the elongate member is arranged to
slidably receive a roof support upright for abutment of a lower end
of the roof support upright against an upper edge of said
prefabricated moveable member. In a fourth aspect, the present
invention provides a method of erecting a platform, walkway or ramp
comprising the steps of:
[0025] providing a plurality of deck supports which are adjustable
to support a deck of a platform, walkway or ramp at a predetermined
elevation, each of the deck supports comprising a prefabricated
moveable member and a corresponding elongate member, the
prefabricated moveable member being arranged to engage the elongate
member for retention and longitudinal movement relative to the
elongate member, the prefabricated moveable member having an
extension arranged to directly support the deck laterally of the
elongate member by contact with an underneath surface of the deck
and the prefabricated moveable member being locatable at
predetermined longitudinal positions relative to the elongate
member;
[0026] adjusting the deck supports by longitudinally moving said
prefabricated moveable members relative to corresponding elongate
members;
[0027] positioning and orientating the deck supports so that their
extensions are arranged to support corresponding portions of a deck
at a desired elevation; and
[0028] placing the deck onto the extensions so that the extensions
support corresponding portions of the deck to form an erected
platform, walkway or ramp.
[0029] The method of the fourth aspect of the present invention may
comprise one or more further steps including:
[0030] providing a plurality of prefabricated deck segments
arranged to collectively form a deck of a platform, walkway or
ramp; and
[0031] transporting prefabricated deck segments to a platform,
walkway or ramp location where a platform, walkway or ramp is to be
erected. In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides a
modular apparatus for constructing a platform, walkway or ramp,
said modular apparatus comprising:
[0032] a plurality of prefabricated segments arranged to
collectively form a deck of a platform, walkway or ramp; and
[0033] a plurality of deck support for supporting the prefabricated
deck segments to form said deck; wherein
[0034] each deck support is adjustable to support a deck of a
platform, walkway or ramp at a predetermined elevation, each deck
support comprising a prefabricated moveable member and a
corresponding elongate member, the prefabricated moveable being
arranged to engage the elongate member for retention and
longitudinal movement relative to the elongate member, the
prefabricated moveable member having an extension arranged to
directly support the deck laterally of the elongate member by
contact with an underneath surface of the deck, the prefabricated
moveable member being locatable at predetermined longitudinal
positions relative to the elongate member. In a sixth aspect, the
present invention provides a platform, walkway or ramp assembly,
said assembly comprising:
[0035] a plurality of deck supports which are each adjustable to
support a deck of a platform, walkway or ramp at a predetermined
elevation, each deck support comprising a prefabricated moveable
member and a corresponding elongate member, the prefabricated
moveable member being arranged to engage the elongate member for
retention and longitudinal movement relative to the elongate
member, the prefabricated member having an extension arranged to
directly support the deck laterally of the elongate member by
contact with an underneath surface of the deck and the
prefabricated moveable member being locatable at predetermined
longitudinal positions relative to the elongate member; and
[0036] a plurality of prefabricated deck segments;
[0037] wherein said prefabricated deck segments are supported by
the extensions of said deck supports to form a platform, walkway or
ramp.
[0038] In the preferred embodiment, the support bearer is arranged
to extend substantially normally of a longitudinal axis of a
walkway or ramp.
[0039] Suitably the modular apparatus and assembly of the
respective fifth and sixth aspect of the present invention further
include one or more prefabricated handrails, each of the
prefabricated handrails comprising one or more rails supported by
one or more handrail uprights, the prefabricated handrails being
arranged for attachment to one or more said deck supports.
Suitably, the prefabricated handrails are arranged for attachment
to the prefabricated moveable member. The prefabricated handrails
preferably include two handrail uprights which are preferably
balusters. The prefabricated handrails are preferably arranged for
substantial orientation of the handrail uprights when attached to
an inclined portion of a ramp. The rails are preferably tubular in
form.
[0040] In the preferred embodiment, the modular apparatus and
assembly of the respective fifth and sixth aspects of the present
invention comprise one or more prefabricated handrail joining
members may be arranged to join ends of adjacent prefabricated
handrails. The prefabricated handrail joining members may be
arranged to overlie an upper surface of said rails, but preferably
comprise a sleeve arranged for insertion into ends of said
rails.
[0041] The deck may be a floor or platform.
[0042] One or more edges of said prefabricated dick segments are
preferably folded to provide adjacent first and second angular
regions. The first and second angular regions preferably comprise a
curb. The first angular region preferably extends substantially
normally of a plane in which the deck segment lies, while the
second angular region preferably extends away from the deck segment
for form an enclosed angle with the first angular region of
approximately 45.degree..
[0043] Suitably the modular apparatus and assembly of the
respective fifth and sixth aspects of the present invention
comprise curb segments arranged to join curbs of adjacent inclined
prefabricated deck segments.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0044] The invention will now be further described, by way of
example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in
which:
[0045] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a ramp providing access
to a house;
[0046] FIG. 2a is a plan view of the ramp and house of FIG. 1;
[0047] FIG. 2b is a schematic exploded assembly diagram showing
prefabricated floor panels and handrails as supported by a
prefabricated floor bearer;
[0048] FIG. 2c is a schematic exploded assembly diagram showing a
double landing and an incline region attached thereto;
[0049] FIG. 2d is a schematic exploded assembly diagram showing a
landing, incline region and prefabricated floor bearer;
[0050] FIGS. 3a and 3b are respective front and plan elevational
views of a 15 prefabricated floor bearer;
[0051] FIGS. 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d and 4e are elevational views of a
pillar or parts thereof;
[0052] FIGS. 5a, 5b and 5c are side and detailed end elevational
views of a prefabricated handrail;
[0053] FIGS. 6a and 6b are side and end elevational views of a
prefabricated handrail which is shorter in length than, but
otherwise identical to, the prefabricated handrail of FIGS. 5a, 5b
and 5c;
[0054] FIG. 7 is a detailed plan view of one end of the of FIGS. 3a
and 3b;
[0055] FIGS. 8a, 8b and 8c are respective plan, end and detailed
side views of a prefabricated floor panel;
[0056] FIGS. 9a and 9b are side and end elevational views of a
prefabricated termination handrail
[0057] FIGS. 10a and 10b are side and end elevational views of an
alternative prefabricated termination handrail;
[0058] FIGS. 11a and 11b are side and end elevational views of a
handrail end cap;
[0059] FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of a 180.degree. joiner
suitable for joining adjacent prefabricated handrails;
[0060] FIGS. 13b, 13c and 13d and 13e are respective plan, end,
side and detailed end views of a prefabricated transition floor
plate;
[0061] FIGS. 14a, 14b and 14c, and 14c and 14e are respective
elevational views of a prefabricated transition floor plate support
beam and plastic cap of that beam;
[0062] FIGS. 15a, 15b, 15c and 15d are respective plan, underside
and detailed end views of a prefabricated double landing floor
panel;
[0063] FIGS. 16a and 16b, and 16c and 16d are side and plan views
of respective prefabricated internal and external support beams of
a double landing;
[0064] FIGS. 17a, 17b and 17c are side, end and detailed end views
of a prefabricated double landing handrail;
[0065] FIGS. 18a and 18b are side and end elevational views of a
pipe which joins opposed prefabricated double landing
handrails;
[0066] FIG. 19 is a plan view of a 90 pipe joiner for forming
handrails;
[0067] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a curb adaptor;
[0068] FIGS. 21a, 21b, 21c and 21d are plan, underside, end and
detailed elevational views of a prefabricated landing floor
panel;
[0069] FIGS. 22a and 22b are side and plan elevational views of a
prefabricated internal landing support bearer;
[0070] FIGS. 23a and 23b are side and plan elevational views of a
prefabricated external landing support bearer;
[0071] FIGS. 24a and 24b are side and plan elevational views of a
prefabricated junction landing support bearer;
[0072] FIGS. 25a an 25b are plan and end elevational views of a
different curb adaptor to that of FIG 20;
[0073] FIGS. 26a and 26b are front and side elevational views of
steps;
[0074] FIG. 27 is a static end elevational view of a ramp of FIGS.
1 and 25 which includes a roof and corresponding roof pillars;
[0075] FIG. 28 is a disassembled schematic view of the roof of FIG.
27 and a corresponding roof pillar;
[0076] FIG. 29 is a schematic plan view of one segment of the roof
of FIG. 27;
[0077] FIG. 30a is a transverse sectional view through the roof of
FIG. 27 showing attachment of the roof to the roof pillars;
[0078] FIG. 30b is a detailed plan view of the roof of FIG. 27
showing attachment to the roof pillars;
[0079] FIG. 31a is an elevational view showing attachment of the
roof to roof pillars at double landing of the ramp;
[0080] FIG. 31b is a plan view of the region of the ramp shown in
FIG. 31a showing attachment of the roof to a roof pillar; and
[0081] FIG. 31c i a plan view of a roof pillar and corresponding
roof bearer of the roof of FIG. 31a.
BEST MODE OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[0082] FIGS. 1 and 2 depict a modular ramp 10 formed of a number of
prefabricated components which are described below. As will be
clear from the description of the modular ramp 10, it will be
readily apparent to a person skilled in the relevant art, that
components forming the modular ramp 10 can be used, in a similar
manner, to form a platform or walkway. In the case of a walkway,
the height of the floor bearers are adjustable so that the floor
surface is generally level, rather than inclined. In the case of a
platform, the size of the floor components and the length of the
floor bearers can be increased.
[0083] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the modular ramp 10 generally
comprises a raked floor 12, elongate members in the form of floor
pillars 14 and 15, and handrails handrail 16, all formed of
prefabricated components. The modular ramp 10 also comprises a
number of different regions: an initial incline region 18; incline
regions 20 and 22; a double landing 24 and a landing 26. The
initial incline region 18 and incline 20 and 22 comply with the
relevant standards for ramps and in this particular embodiment are
designed in accordance with Australian Standard. The length of the
modular ramp 10 is adjusted so that the landing 26 is appropriately
positioned relative to a doorway 28 of a house 30 for wheelchair
across to the house 30.
[0084] FIGS. 2b, 2c ant 2d generally show assembly of prefabricated
components which form the incline regions 20 and 22, double landing
24 and landing 26 relatively. Referring to FIG. 2b, the incline
regions 20 and 22 are formed of floor segments, one example of
which is prefabricated floor panel 32 and prefabricated handrails
91 which are supported by prefabricated floor bearers 34 and floor
pillars 14 or 15.
[0085] The double landing 24 of FIG. 2c generally comprises a floor
segment, one example of which is prefabricated double landing floor
panel 130 which is supported by prefabricated internal and external
double landing support bearers 150 and 152 respectively. The double
landing 24 also has prefabricated double landing handrails 168 and
double landing handrails 178. Ends of incline region 20 and 22
(incline region 20 not shown in FIG. 2c) which meet the double
landing 24 are also supported by the prefabricated internal double
landing support bearer 150.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 2d, the landing 26 generally comprises a
prefabricated landing floor panel 182, prefabricated landing
handrail 250 and landing pipes 252 which are supported by
prefabricated internal, external and junction landing support
bearers 202, 204 and 206 respectively. Prefabricated floor panels
32 which meet the prefabricated landing floor panel 182 are also
supported by the prefabricated internal and junction landing
support bearers 202 and 206 respectively.
[0087] Before explaining details of regions 18-26, details of
components relating to the raked floor for 12 and pillars 14 are
generally described by reference to components which form the
incline regions 20 and 22. The raked floor 12 is formed of a number
of prefabricated floor segments, an example of which are
prefabricated floor panels 32 (see FIGS. 2b, 8a, 8b and 8c) which
extend between adjacent prefabricated floor bearers 34 (see FIGS.
3a and 3b). Referring to FIGS. 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d floor bearers 34
are supported by elongate members or in this example floor pillars
14 and 15.
[0088] Referring to FIGS. 8a, 8b and 8c, prefabricated floor panels
32 comprise a 3 millimetre thick aluminium plate 40 which is folded
on side edges to form ramp curbs, one example of which is curbed
edge 42. The aluminium plate 40 has a non-slip surface 44 provided
by a chequered pattern 46. The curbed edge 42 comprises a normal
fold region 48 which extends normally of an upper surface of the
aluminium plate 40, a distance of 70 mm, and a lateral fold region
50 which extends at an angle of 45.degree. relative to the normal
fold region 48, a distance of 30 mm. The aluminium plate 40 is
2,406 mm in length and has a width of 1,000 mm between inner
surfaces of opposed normal fold regions 48. A shorter length
aluminium plate (not shown) is 1,203 mm in length and otherwise
identical to the aluminium plate 40.
[0089] The aluminium plate 40 is reinforced by two
60.times.40.times.3 aluminium tubes 52 which are TIG welded to the
aluminium plate 40 so that their longitudinal axes are spaced 320
mm from adjacent outer surfaces of the normal fold region 48. The
length of the aluminium tubes 52 is such that both ends are spaced
30 mm from end edges of the aluminium plate 40. The aluminium tubes
52 are welded to the aluminium plate via pairs of welds which
extend along the length of the aluminium tubes at a spacing of 300
mm from each other. However, it will be readily appreciated by a
person skilled in the relevant art that the aluminium tubes 52 can
be otherwise attached to the aluminium plate. For example, the
aluminium tube 52 can be screwed to the aluminium plate 40.
[0090] Three oval shaped holes 54 are formed in each end of the
aluminium plate 40. The holes are 10 mm in length and 8 mm across.
The holes 54 are positioned so that their centers are ten mm from
the end of the aluminium plate 40, and 150 mm from the inner
surface of the normal fold region 48 or, in the case of the central
hole, aligned with a longitudinal axis of the aluminium plate
40.
[0091] The prefabricated floor bearer 34 (see FIGS. 2b, 3a and 3b)
are formed of 50.times.50.times.25 RHS galvanised steel tubes 35
which have sleeves 56 and 58 attached at each end for respective
receipt of floor pillars 14 and/or 15 and handrail balusters 60
(see FIGS. 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d of sheets 6/30 and 18/30, and FIGS. 5a
and 5b). In this example, the sleeves 56 and 58 are the
prefabricated moveable members each having a common extension in
the form of the floor bearer 34. As will be readily apparent to a
person skilled in the relevant art, walls of the tubes 35 can be
thicker than 2.5 mm, for example, 3.5 mm or 6.0 mm, and the sleeves
58 can be formed of material other than galvanised steel, for
example, polyglass. The sleeves 56 are formed of a 195 millimeter
length of 40.times.40.times.1.6 RHS galvanised steel tubes (see
FIG. 1). The sleeves 58 are formed of a 90.times.40.times.2.0
folded galvanised steel tube which is designed to sit on top of the
prefabricated floor bearers 34 so that upper end 62 of the sleeve
58 is level with an upper end of the sleeve 56. Referring to FIG.
7, sleeves 56 and 58 are welded together via welds 64 and 66. The
prefabricated floor bearer 34 is 1.15 metres long.
[0092] Outer ends of the prefabricated floor bearer 34 and the
external surface of inner walls 70 of the sleeves 56 and 58 are
attached via welds 68.
[0093] Referring to FIGS. 2b, 4a, 4b, 4c and 4d, the elongate
members in the form of floor pillars 14 and 15 are formed of
35.times.35.times.1.6 mm RHS galvanised steel tube having lengths
of 600 and 1,000 mm respectively. The floor pillars 14 have six
holes 72, 74, 76, 78, 80 and 82 formed in opposite walls while the
floor pillar 15 has 9 of these holes. The holes are spaced from
each other by 100 mm, the lowest hole 72 being 60 mm from lower
ends of the floor pillars. Different length floor pillars (not
shown) are available having appropriately spaced hoes for
applications where greater and smaller ranges of adjustment are
required. Lower ends of floor pillar 14 and 15 threadably attach to
a pivotable foot 84. The floor pillars 14 and 15 may be attached
directly to a supporting surface such as a concrete slab, via
dynabolts which pass through holes 86 of the pivotable foot, or may
be supported by a supporting surface such as earth via bearing pads
87 (see FIG. 4e) which the pivotable foot 84 can be bolted to.
[0094] The floor pillars 14 and 15 are designed to slide within the
sleeves 56 for adjustment of the elevation of the prefabricated
floor bearers 34 by alignment of one of the pairs of holes 72, 74,
76, 78, 80 and 82 (in the case of the floor pillar 14) with holes
89 formed in opposite walls of the sleeves 56. Thus, the pillars 14
and 15 are arranged for longitudinal and in this case slideable
movement relative to the sleeves 56. Locating pins 83 (see FIGS. 2c
and 2d) are passed through the aligned holes 89 in the sleeve 56
and the selected pairs of holes, such as 72, in the floor pillar 14
or 15 for retention of the pillar 14 or 15.
[0095] The incline regions 20 and 22 are formed by positioning one
prefabricated floor bearer 34 at each end of a prefabricated floor
panel 32 and subsequently loosely attaching the prefabricated floor
panel 32 thereto via screws. The elevation of the prefabricated
floor bearers 34 positioned at either end of the prefabricated
floor panel 32 are adjusted as described above to provide the
appropriate amount of incline.
[0096] Alternatively or additionally, incline of prefabricated
floor or deck segments can be adjusted after initial assembly of
adjacent floor or deck segments. However, the height of
prefabricated floor bearers is preferably set before the
prefabricated floor panels 32 are firmly attached to corresponding
prefabricated floor bearers 34 by tightening of screws.
[0097] The assembled prefabricated floor bearers 34 and
prefabricated floor panel 32 is then supported on a supporting
surface so that the prefabricated floor bearers 34 are
approximately vertical, the pivotable feet 84 pivoting to
accommodate for a sloping supporting surface.
[0098] Incline regions 20 and 22 are completed by joining ramp
segments comprising prefabricated floor panels 32 and two
prefabricated floor bearers 34 with ramp segments comprising a
prefabricated floor panel 32 and a single prefabricated floor
bearer 34. Adjacent prefabricated floor panels 32 are attached to a
common prefabricated floor bearer 34 so that adjacent abutting
edges of the prefabricated floor panels 32 are substantially
aligned with a longitudinal axis of the prefabricated floor bearer
34.
[0099] Handrails 16 are attached upon assembly of ramp segments.
Alternatively, handrails 16 can be used to maintain adjacent
prefabricated floor bearers 34 in an upright position prior to
attachment of an adjoining prefabricated floor panel 32 by assembly
of adjacent prefabricated floor bearers 34 and adjoining handrails
16. The handrails 16 are formed of prefabricated handrails 91 (see
FIGS. 2b, 5a, 5b and 5c). The prefabricated handrails 91 have two
handrail balusters 88 and 90, and lower and upper handrails 92 and
94 respectively. The hand rail balusters 88 and 90 are formed of
35.times.35.times.1.6 RHS galvanised steel tube. The distance
between opposite outer surfaces of hand rail balusters 88 and 90 of
the prefabricated hand rail 91 is 2,400 mm. The handrails 92 and 94
are formed of 25 NB light pipe and are attache to the balusters 88
and 90 so that a longitudinal axis of the lower hand rail 92 is
spaced 425 mm from an upper surface of the upper hand rail 94 (as
viewed in FIGS. 5a and 5b) and 475 mm from a lower end (also as
viewed in FIGS. 5a and 5b) of hand rail balusters 88 and 90.
[0100] The hand rail baluster 88 and 90 are angled relative to the
handrails 92 and 94 such that one end of the balusters 88 and 90 is
offset 64 mm relative to a vertical line which intersects the other
end of the balusters. This relative angle between the balusters 88
and 90 and handrails 92 and 94 positions the handrails 92 and 94 so
that they are substantially parallel to longitudinal edges of
prefabricated floor panels 32 when the balusters 88 and 90 are
positioned approximately vertically.
[0101] The handrails balusters 88 and 90 are designed to slide into
the sleeves 58 (see FIGS. 3a and 3b). Each sleeve 58 is designed to
receive hand rail balusters 88 and 90 of adjacent prefabricated
handrails 91. Adjacent hand rail balusters 88 and 90 are positioned
in the sleeve 58 so that abutting walls substantially align with a
longitudinal axis of the prefabricated floor bearer 34.
[0102] Referring to FIG. 12, adjacent prefabricated handrails 91
are joined by 180.degree. joiners 96. Opposite ends 98 and 100 of
the 180.degree. pipe joiners are appropriately dimensioned to be
slidably received within 92 and 94 of adjacent prefabricated
handrails 91.
[0103] Referring to FIG. 1, an end of the hand rail 16 which
corresponds to the initial incline region 18 is provided by a
prefabricated termination hand rail 102 (see FIGS. 9a and 9b). The
prefabricated termination hand rail 102 is formed of a pipe having
an outer diameter of 35 mm and is attached to an adjacent
prefabricated hand rail 91 via pipes 103 (see FIGS. 9a and 9b)
which have an outside diameter of 27 mm. The pipes 103 are slidably
received within the prefabricated termination hand rail 102 and the
prefabricated hand rail 91.
[0104] Prefabricated termination hand rail 104 of FIGS. 10a and 10b
is suitable for example, for use in relation to steps providing
access to a platform, walkway or ramp. An upper portion 106 of the
prefabricated termination hand rail 104 (as viewed in FIG. 10a) is
offset 360 mm in a vertical plane relative to a lower portion 108.
This distance varies in accordance with dimensions of steps which
the prefabricated termination hand rail 104 is designed for.
[0105] Referring to FIGS. 13a, 13b, 13c, 13d and 13e, the initial
incline region 18 (see FIG. 1) is formed of a prefabricated
transition floor plate 110 which is similar to the prefabricated
floor panel 32, but differs in the following respects. Like
features of the prefabricated floor panel 32 and prefabricated
transition floor plate 110 are referred to by common reference
numerals. The prefabricated transition floor plate 110 is only 600
mm in length. In place of the aluminium tubes 52 it has two tapered
aluminium support plates 112 and 114 which maintain an upper
surface of the prefabricated transition floor plate 110 in an
inclined position. The tap plates 112 and 114 are 540 mm long and
50 mm wide at one end. Opposed folded and region 116 and 118 of the
prefabricated transition floor plate 110 are 25 mm wide and extend
at an angle of 5 relative to the prefabricated transition floor
plate 110. The end fold region 116 extends in a downward direction
and is designed to abut a lower end of a prefabricated floor panel
32 which is positioned at a lower end of the modular ramp 10, while
the other end fold region 118 is designed to rest on a supporting
surface. Normal fold of region 119 of the prefabricated transition
floor plate 110 tapers from a maximum width of 70 mm at the end
fold region 116, to a minimum width of 25 mm at the opposite end of
the fold region 118. Holes are positioned at the end fold region
116 in a similar manner to that described above in relation to the
prefabricated floor panel 32. Holes are not formed in the end fold
region 118.
[0106] Referring to FIGS. 14a, 14b and 14c, the initial incline
region 18 is supported by a prefabricated transition floor plate
support beam 120 which is described by comparison with the
prefabricated floor bearer 34 of FIGS. 3a and 3b. Like features of
the prefabricated transition floor plate support beam 120 and
prefabricated floor bearer 34 are referred to by common reference
numerals. The prefabricated transition floor plate support beam 120
includes a galvanised steel tube 35 identical to the galvanised
steel tube 35 of the prefabricated floor bearer 34. Hand rail
baluster sleeves 121 are formed of 90.times.40.times.2.0 folded
galvanised steel rather than 94.times.40.times.2.0 folded
galvanised steel. Referring also to FIGS. 14d and 14e, a square
shaped plastic cap 122 is positioned in corresponding ends of each
of the hand rail baluster sleeves 121 to leave room for receipt of
one hand rail baluster. The prefabricated transition floor plate
support beam 120 includes securing brackets 124 for attachment of
the prefabricated transition floor plate support beam 120 to, for
example, a bearing pad 87 (see FIG. 4e) or a concrete slab. The
securing brackets (124 are 50.times.50 angle, one end of an upright
wall 126 of which (as viewed in FIG. 14c) tapers from its base. A
hole 128 is formed in a horizontal wall 129 (as viewed in FIG. 14a)
of the securing bracket 124, adjacent the tapered end of the
upright wall 126.
[0107] Referring to FIGS. 2c, 15a, 15b, 15c and 15d, the double
landing 24 is formed of a prefabricated double landing floor panel
130 which differs from the prefabricated floor panel 32 as follows.
Like features of the floor panels 130 and 34 are referred to by
common reference numerals. The prefabricated double landing floor
panel 130 is 2,200 mm long (excluding lateral curb edges 138 and
140) and 1,203 mm wide (excluding longitudinal curb edge 132). The
prefabricated double landing floor panel 130 includes three
additional oval shaped holes 54. Centres of the two centrally
positioned oval shaped holes 54 are spaced apart by 510 mm while
centres of the oval shaped holes 52 are spaced apart by 350 mm. The
prefabricated double landing floor panel 130 includes one
longitudinally positioned aluminium tube 134 and five laterally
positioned aluminium tubes 136. The tubes 134 and 136 differ in
length to the aluminium tubes 52 of the prefabricated floor panel
32 but are otherwise identical.
[0108] The aluminium tube 134 is spaced apart from the closest
longitudinal edge of the prefabricated double landing floor panel
130 by 30 mm. The length and position of the aluminium tube 134 is
such that its ends are spaced 95 mm from transversed edges of the
prefabricated double landing floor panel 130 (excluding lateral
curved edges 138 and 140). Each of the aluminium tubes 136 abut the
aluminium tube 134 and extend normally therefrom. A central
aluminium tube 136 is positioned midway along the length of the
aluminium tube 134 and the aluminium tubes 136 are positioned
symmetrically either side of this tube. Two aluminium tubes 136 are
spaced 385 mm from the central aluminium tube 136 while the
remaining two aluminium tubes 136 are each spaced 745 mm from the
central aluminium tube 136. The length of the aluminium tubes 136
is such that ends opposite those that abut the aluminium tube 134
are spaced 55 mm from the adjacent longitudinal edge of the
prefabricated double landing floor panel 130 (excluding
longitudinal curved edge 132).
[0109] The prefabricated double landing floor panel 130 is
supported by prefabricated internal and external double landing
support bearers 150 and 152 respectively (see FIGS. 2c, 16a, 16b
16c and 16d). Features of the prefabricated internal and external
double landing support bearers 150 and 152 are explained by
comparison with the prefabricated floor bearer 34. Like features
are referred to by common reference numerals.
[0110] Referring firstly to the prefabricated internal double
landing support bearer 150, galvanised steel tube 154 corresponding
to tube 35 of the prefabricated floor bearer 34 are 2,440 mm long,
but are otherwise identical to the galvanised steel tubes 35.
Handrail baluster sleeves 156 are formed of 90.times.40.times.2.0
folded galvanised steel. The prefabricated internal double landing
support bearer 150 includes two additional centrally positioned
handrail baluster sleeves 158 which are positioned midway along the
length of the galvanised steel tube 154 so that they are separated
by 55 mm. The centrally positioned handrail baluster sleeves 158
are formed of 40.times.40.times.1.6 RHS. The length of the
centrally positioned handrail baluster sleeves 158 is such that
their upper ends (as viewed in FIG. 16a) lies approximately in the
same horizontal plane as upper ends of the handrail baluster
sleeves 156. The centrally positioned handrail baluster sleeves 158
are positioned to one side of the galvanised steel tube 154 so that
one of their walls is substantially aligned with a longitudinally
axis of the galvanised steel tube 154.
[0111] The prefabricated external double landing support bearer 152
has a galvanised steel tube 160 which is identical to the
galvanised steel tube 154 of the prefabricated internal double
landing support bearer 150. Handrail baluster sleeves 162 are
formed of 40.times.40.times.1.6 RHS galvanised steel.
[0112] Referring to FIGS. 17a, 17b and 17c, balusters 164 and 166
of prefabricated double landing handrails 168 fit into
corresponding handrail baluster sleeves 156 and 162 of
prefabricated internal and external double landing support bearer
150 and 152 respectively to locate prefabricated internal and
external double landing support bearers 150 and 152 relative to
each other. The prefabricated double landing floor panel 130 is
then screwed to the prefabricated internal and external double
landing support bearers 150 and 152 so that the longitudinal curbed
edge 132 is supported by the prefabricated external double landing
support bearer 152. Handrail ends 172 of prefabricated double
landing handrails 168 are joined by double landing handrails 178
(see FIGS. 18a and 18b) with the use of a 90.degree. pipe joiner
175 (see FIGS. 2c and 19). The prefabricated internal double
landing support bearer 150 also supports one end of prefabricated
floor panels 32 which extend away from the double landing 24 and
form part of the incline regions 20 and 22.
[0113] The prefabricated double landing floor panel 130 can also
function as a platform. To function as a platform it is assembled
independently of the abutting regions of the modular ramp 10, and
the handrails are appropriately positioned in accordance with the
particular design of the platform. The dimensions and surface area
are appropriately altered, as are the bearers and other components
forming the platform. In situations where the platform is required
have walkways and/or ramps extending from one or more edges, floor
bearers the same as or similar to floor bearers described in
relation to the modular ramp 10 are used as appropriate or
alternatively, they are modified to involve a combination of parts
of a such floor bearers.
[0114] The double landing 24 is completed by attaching a double
landing curb adaptor 179 of FIG. 20. The double landing curb
adaptor 179 is a U-shaped 3 mm aluminium plate formed of the same
material that forms the aluminium plate 40. The U-shaped plate is
70 mm wide and end walls 180 are separated by 190 mm. The curb
adaptor 179 is designed to fit around adjacent handrail balusters
of upper and lower ends of the incline regions 20 and 22
respectively, and join inside curbed edges 42 of these incline
regions to form a continuous curbed edge. The modular ramp 10 also
includes a continuous outer curbed edge formed by abutment of the
prefabricated double landing floor panel 130 with the incline
regions 20 and 22.
[0115] Components forming the landing 26 (see FIG. 2d) are
described by comparison to components previously described.
Features of components forming the landing 26 which are identical
to features previously described are referred to by common
reference numerals. Referring to FIGS. 21a, 21b, 21c and 21d, the
landing 26 includes a prefabricated landing floor panel 182. The
prefabricated landing floor panel 182 includes curbed edges 184 and
186 which are similar to curbed edges 42 of the prefabricated floor
panel 32. Normal fold regions 188 which correspond to normal region
48 of the prefabricated floor panel 32 are 75 mm rather than 70 mm
wide. The prefabricated landing floor panel 182 includes five
60.times.40.times.3 galvanised steel tubes 190, 192, 194, 196 and
198.
[0116] The tube 190 is 1,110 mm long. A side wall of the tube 190
which is closest to an adjacent edge of the prefabricated landing
floor panel 182 is spaced 30 mm from that edge. An end wall 200 of
the tube 190 is spaced 60 mm from an adjacent edge of the
prefabricated landing floor panel 182. Tubes 192 and 194 are 1,075
mm long and are spaced apart by 320 mm. The tube 194 is spaced 500
mm from the closest edge of the prefabricated landing floor panel
182. Tubes 196 and 198 are 470 mm long and are separated by 315 mm.
Tube 196 is spaced apart from the tube 190 by 435 mm.
[0117] Referring to FIGS. 22a, 22b, 23a, 23b, 24a and 24b, the
prefabricated landing floor panel 182 is supported by a
prefabricated internal landing support bearer 202, a prefabricated
external landing support bearer 204 and a prefabricated junction
landing support bearer 206. Details of these support bearers are
explained by comparison with the prefabricated internal double
landing support bearer 150. Like features are referred to by common
reference numerals.
[0118] The prefabricated internal landing support bearer 202 has a
galvanised steel tube 208 which is 1,300 mm long and with the
exception of the position of holes formed in an upper wall of the
galvanised steel tube 208 for attachment thereto of the
prefabricated landing floor panel 182, is otherwise identical to
the galvanised steel tube 154 of the prefabricated internal landing
support bearer 150.
[0119] Handrail baluster sleeve 158 is 105 mm from the closest end
of the galvanised steel tube 208 and side wall 210 is positioned
midway across the width of the galvanised steel tube 208. Handrail
baluster sleeve 212 differs from the corresponding handrail
baluster sleeve 156 of the prefabricated internal landing support
bearer 150 in that it is formed of metal 2 mm rather than 25 mm
thick.
[0120] The prefabricated internal landing support bearer 202
includes a 50.times.50 angle bracket 214 which is 75 mm in length.
Two holes 216 and 218 are formed in the angle bracket 214.
[0121] The prefabricated external landing support bearer 204
includes a galvanised steel tube 220 which is 1,250 mm in length
and include holes 222 and 224, but is otherwise identical to the
galvanised steel tube 154 of the prefabricated internal double
landing support bearer 150. Handrail baluster sleeve 158 is
identical to the centrally positioned handrail baluster sleeve 158
of the prefabricated internal double landing support bearer
150.
[0122] The prefabricated junction landing support bearer 206
includes a galvanised steel tube 226 which is 1,257 mm long and
includes six holes 228, but is otherwise identical to the
galvanised steel tube 154 of the prefabricated internal double
landing support bearer 150. Double handrail baluster sleeve 230 is
identical to handrail baluster sleeve 156 of the prefabricated
internal double landing support bearer 150, except that is formed
of metal which is 2 mm rather than 2.5 mm thick. Handrail baluster
sleeve 232 is identical to the centrally positioned handrail
baluster sleeve 158 of the prefabricated internal double landing
support bearer 150. The handrail baluster sleeve 232 is spaced
1,065 mm from the double handrail baluster sleeve 230 and
positioned on one half of the width of an upper wall 234 of the
galvanised steel tube 226. An angle bracket 236 is identical to the
angle bracket 214 of the prefabricated double landing support
bearer 202 and is spaced 70 mm from the closest end of the
galvanised steel tube 226.
[0123] The prefabricated internal, external and junction landing
support bearers 202, 204 and 206 respectively, are assembled as
follows. A free end 240 of the galvanised steel tube 226 is
supported by the angle bracket 214 of the prefabricated internal
landing support bearer 202 so that the end 240 abuts a side wall
242 of the galvanised steel tube 208. The tube 226 is screwed to
the angle bracket 214 by passage of screws (not shown) through
holes 216 and 218 of the angle bracket 214. A free end 244 of the
galvanised steel tube 220 is similarly attached to the angle
bracket 236 of the prefabricated junction landing support bearer
206.
[0124] The prefabricated landing floor panel 182 is positioned on
the assembled internal, external and junction landing support
bearers 202, 204 and 206 respectively which are appropriately
supported by pillars 14 or 15, so that the curbed edge 184 is
supported by the prefabricated external landing support bearer
204.
[0125] The landing 26 is completed by attachment of handrails. A
prefabricated landing handrail 250 (see FIGS. 1 and 2d) is
identical to the prefabricated double landing handrail 168 (see
FIGS. 17a, 17b and 17c). The prefabricated landing handrail 250
(see FIGS. 1 and 2d) is supported via handrail baluster sleeves 212
and 158 of the prefabricated internal and external landing support
beam 202 and 204 respectively. Handrails 252 (see FIG. 1)
positioned over and aligned with the curbed edge 184 are provided
by pipes. Ends of these pipes which are positioned over the curbed
edge 186 are attached as described above in relation to the double
landing handrail 178, while ends which are positioned over the
prefabricated junction landing support bearer 206 are supported by
a handrail baluster 254 (see FIG. 1) of a prefabricated handrail
256 (see FIG. 1) which is identical to the prefabricated double
landing handrail 168. Referring to FIGS. 11a and 11b, plastic
handrail end caps 258 fit into terminal ends of upper and lower
handrails of prefabricated handrail 256.
[0126] The prefabricated landing floor panel 182 is connected to
the house 30 via a prefabricated floor panel 32 by attaching one
end of the floor panel 32 to it via holes 201 which are positioned
opposite the cured edge 186.
[0127] Referring to FIGS. 25a and 25b, a curb adaptor 270 joins
inside curbed edges 42 of aluminium plates 40 which abut the
prefabricated landing floor panel 182. The curb adaptor 270 is 70
mm wide and is formed out of the same aluminium material that forms
the aluminium plates 40. Wing sections 272 of the curb adaptor 270
extend at an angle of 45.degree. to the body of the adaptor 270, a
distance of 30 mm.
[0128] Referring to FIGS. 26a and 26b, although the modular ramp 10
does not include steps, platforms, walkways and ramps may include
steps such as steps 280. The steps 280 include 35'35.times.1.6 RHS
galvanised steel tubes 282 and aluminium plate 284 formed of the
same material which forms the aluminium plate 40 and folded into
four regions 286, 288, 290 and 292. The aluminium plate 284 is
1,000 mm long. Regions 286, 288, 290 and 292 are respectively 25,
180, 250 and 180 mm wide.
[0129] Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28, a curved roof sheet 300 is
attached to the modular ramp 10 via roof pillars 302. Referring to
FIG. 29, the curved roof sheets 300 are the same length as the
corresponding floor panels 32, 130 and 182 which they are
positioned over by roof pillars 302. The roof pillars 302 are
formed of 40.times.40.times.2 RHS galvanised steel tube 1900 mm in
length which is designed to slide over an upper end of floor
pillars 14 or 15 so that a lower edge of the roof pillar 302 abuts
an upper edge of the floor pillar sleeves 56 as shown in FIG.
27.
[0130] Referring to FIGS. 27 and 28, 25.times.20.times.50 U-shaped
channel beams 304 are attached to side edges of the curved roof
sheet 300 by any appropriate means of attachment. For example, they
may be attached by rivets, screws, bolts or welds.
50.times.25.times.2 RHS galvanised steel tube 306 is then attached
via an underneath wall (as viewed in FIGS. 27 and 28) to the
U-shaped beam 304. The RHS tube 306 can similarly be attached by
any other appropriate means. The U-shaped beams 304 and RHS tubes
306 are attached to the curved roof sheet 300 prior to delivery of
the curved roof sheet to a site where the modular ramp 10 is to be
erected. The assembled curved roof sheet 300, U-shaped beam 304 and
RHS tube 306 may be pre-assembled with the roof pillars 302.
However, in most situations assembly would occur on site.
[0131] Referring to FIGS. 30a and 30b, the RHS tube 306 is attached
to roof pillars 302 via an attachment plate 308. A cut out region
310 formed in upper ends of the roof pillars 302 is designed for
receipt of RHS tubes 306 in a manner which accommodates the
curvature of the curved roof sheet 300. The attachment plate 308 is
welded to the upper end of the roof pillar 302 via welds 312 (see
FIG. 30a). Referring to FIGS. 28 and 30a, the RHS tubes 306 are
attached to the attachment plate 308 via screws 314 so that RHS
tubes 306 of adjacent curved roof sheets 300 meet approximately
centrally of the roof pillar 302. Referring to FIG. 30b, a
40.times.5 locating plate 316 further securely locates adjacent RHS
tubes 306 of adjacent curved roof sheets 300 relative to each
other.
[0132] FIGS. 31a, 31b and 31c show how the roof of incline region
20 meets the roof of the double landing 24. The roof of incline
region 20 is formed in the same manner as that described above in
relation to other regions of the modular ramp 10 with the following
exceptions. Each end of a curved roof sheet of incline region 20
extends to an outer wall of a roof pillar 318 which is roughly
aligned with an end edge of the curved roof sheet, rather than a
mid-point of a roof pillar as described above in situations where a
curved roof sheet 300 abuts an end edge of an adjacent curved roof
set 300. An attachment plate 320 corresponds to attachment plate
308 except that it does not extend past the outer wall of a roof
pillar 318 which is roughly aligned with an end edge of the curved
roof sheet. A locating plate 322 is similar to the locating plate
316 with the exception that it is modified in a similar way to the
modification described above in relation to attachment plate
320.
[0133] In certain situations, in order to comply with relevant
standards, it is necessary to include a level aluminium plate in
order to break a constant incline which is greater than a
particular distance. Therefore, in some situations, it is necessary
to provide an aluminium plate (not shown) which is 1203 mm in
length but otherwise identical to the plate 40.
[0134] The modular ramp 10 is suitable for temporary or permanent
applications. In the case of temporary applications it can be
disassembled, the disassembled components forcing part of a pool of
components that can be used to assemble a new modular ramp 10, in
another location.
[0135] Modular ramps suitable for different applications to those
described above in relation to the modular ramp 10 can be formed by
the appropriate number and combination of components forming the
modular ramp 10. In some cases this will mean that a greater number
of a particular component described in relation to the modular ramp
10 is required. In other cases, a particular component described in
relation to the modular ramp 10 will not be required.
[0136] The components described above are examples of components
that can be used to form a platform, walkway or ramp. As indicated
above, any given component can, for example, be modified by
combining part of it with part of another component providing a
similar function. Modifications may be required to satisfy specific
design requirements which could involve altering the size and shape
of a component, or the position of a component or part of a
component. For example, dimensions of the aluminium plates referred
to above can be altered to suit specific design or regulatory
requirements. This may involve altering the size, number and/or
spacing of the aluminium tubes so that they provide a corresponding
aluminium plate with the appropriate structural integrity. It may
also, for example, involve altering the length and size of the
floor bearers.
[0137] It will be understood that the invention disclosed and
defined in this specification extends to all alternative
combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or
evident from the text and/or drawings. All of these different
combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the
invention.
[0138] Various changes and modifications may be made to the
embodiments described and illustrated without departing from the
present invention.
* * * * *