U.S. patent application number 11/578746 was filed with the patent office on 2007-11-22 for telescoping load-bearing frame assembly and use of the same.
Invention is credited to Tommy Otto Jensen, Poul Erik Pedersen.
Application Number | 20070266647 11/578746 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35196669 |
Filed Date | 2007-11-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070266647 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pedersen; Poul Erik ; et
al. |
November 22, 2007 |
Telescoping Load-Bearing Frame Assembly and Use of the Same
Abstract
The invention refers to a telescoping frame assembly (1) for
height adjustment adjacent a wall (23) comprising: bracket
structure for structure load mounting; self-blocking telescoping
columns for height adjustment; movement of telescoping columns
synchronized by mechanical means and/or common control of
individual actuators; one telescoping column part being
wall-mounted with possible supporting foot; with: a separate main
beam (42) of constant circumscribed profile for horizontal
arrangement and having means (52, 53) along its length for
positioning and fixation of both vertical telescoping columns and
horizontal brackets, with freely selectable positions along the
main beam (42); telescoping columns (43) as separate units with
specific positioning and fixation means (49, 54) for mounting to
the main beam (42) at the selected positions; and brackets (44) as
separate units provided with specific positioning and fixation
means (47, 48, 49, 50) for mounting to the main beam (42) at the
selected positions. The invention also refers to the use of such an
assembly for, e.g., the mounting of basins and tubs.
Inventors: |
Pedersen; Poul Erik;
(Herlufmagle, DK) ; Jensen; Tommy Otto; (Naestved,
DK) |
Correspondence
Address: |
AKC PATENTS
215 GROVE ST.
NEWTON
MA
02466
US
|
Family ID: |
35196669 |
Appl. No.: |
11/578746 |
Filed: |
April 20, 2005 |
PCT Filed: |
April 20, 2005 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/DK05/00272 |
371 Date: |
October 18, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
52/36.6 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 9/00 20130101; A47B
13/06 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/036.6 |
International
Class: |
A47B 5/06 20060101
A47B005/06 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 22, 2004 |
DK |
PA 2004 00634 |
Claims
1. Telescoping load-bearing frame assembly (1) for selective height
adjustment above a floor level adjacent a wall (23), comprising:
bracket structure for mounting of substantially static load
structure to be borne; at least two telescoping columns comprising
means for performing the height adjustment movement and being self-
blocking in the selected height; for at least two columns: the
movement of the telescoping columns being synchronized by coupled
mechanical means and/or by common control of individual actuators;
one part of each of at least two telescoping columns being fixedly
wall-mounted and possibly having a supplementary stiff supporting
leg/foot; characterized in said assembly being at least composed
of: a separate lengthy main beam (42) of constant circumscribed
profile along it's length, for substantially horizontal
arrangement, and having prepared means (52,53) along its length
allowing positioning and fixation of both vertical telescoping
columns (43) and horizontal bracket structure brackets (44), with
their positions along the main beam (42) being selectable freely or
at small modular steps of maximum 50 mm; minimum two telescoping
columns (43) being separate units and being provided with specific
positioning and fixation means (49, 54) for mounting to the main
beam (42) at the selected positions; and minimum two bracket
structure brackets (44) being separate units and being provided
with specific positioning and fixation means (47,48, 49,50) for
mounting to the main beam (42) at the selected positions.
2. Assembly according to claim 1, characterized in, the prepared
means along the length of main beam having the form of undercut
grooves (52,53) extending continuously and parallel all along the
main beam (42) preferably being a section of an extruded profile,
preferably of metallic material, preferably with a high content of
aluminium.
3. Assembly according to claim 1, characterized in, the constant
circumscribed profile along the main beam's length being
substantially rectangular, and in the horizontal mounted position
of the beam providing two vertical and two horizontal sides for
mounting of brackets (44) and telescoping columns (43),
respectively.
4. Assembly according to claim 2, characterized in, a part (48,54)
of the means for mounting/fixing a telescoping column (43) and/or a
bracket (44) to the main beam (42), is to be positioned in the
undercut groove (52,53) with a dimensional extension square to the
groove direction, which is larger than the groove's mouth span, the
part (48,54) having at least one means of connection to tensioning
means (49), preferably at least one threaded bore for a screw
(49).
5. Assembly according to claim 4, characterized in, such part (48)
to be positioned in the undercut groove (52), having shape and
dimensions allowing for insertion into correct undercut position in
the groove (52) from the side, preferably by some translatoric
movement through the groove's mouth succeeded by some rolling
movement in the groove having sufficient free sectional area to
allow such rolling.
6. Assembly according to claim 5 and having the movement of at
least two telescoping columns (43) being synchronized by coupled
mechanical means (10), characterized in, the mechanically coupling
means (10) being a section of a length of axle material with a
constant outer profile along it's length, the profile thus directly
allowing transfer of torsional force-couples in either direction
substantially without backlash by insertion in/through a
correspondingly formed hole.
7. Assembly according to claim 6, characterized in, the
mechanically coupling length of axle material with constant outer
profile (10) along it's length is insertable/retractable through
one or more of the relevant telescoping columns.
8. Assembly according to claim 7, characterized in, the telescoping
columns (43) and/or the brackets (44) being identical,
respectively.
9. Assembly according to claim 8, characterized in, the main beam
(42) having mounted second load-bearing structure for load-bearing
of substantially static loads at another height than that defined
by the brackets (44).
10. Use of assembly according to claim 9, characterized in,
mounting of a hand basin, toilet bowl, or the like for wall
mounting, the necessary brackets (58) being designed with a face
simulating a wall for mounting.
11. Use of assembly according to claim 10, characterized in,
mounting of an integral bench-top-type basin, bath tub, or the
like, the necessary brackets being connected to a bar (60) to form
a structure to yield continuous support at least under all edges of
the basin, bath tub, or the like, possibly via some load
distributing padding means.
12. Use of elements of claim 11, characterized in, the resulting
telescoping load-bearing frame assembly for selective height
adjustment above a floor level, being freestanding having one main
beam (42) horizontally positioned on at least two telescoping
columns with feet, or having more horizontal main beams cooperating
in a common level for common load-bearing support of a structure
possibly also supported on brackets (44) mounted to the main beams
(42).
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] 1. Field of Application
[0002] This invention relates to telescoping load-bearing frames
for selectively height adjustable structures. More specifically the
invention concerns a telescoping load-bearing frame assembly
according to the preamble of claim 1.
[0003] Uses of the inventive elements are also claimed.
[0004] Telescoping load-bearing frame assemblies of such type find
a wide range of applications; also they often preferably are used
in arrangements for incapacitated/handicapped persons requiring
installations with variable height adjustment. E.g. in a kitchen
installation one or more of such telescoping load-bearing frame
assemblies are very useful as the selective height adjustment
allows the user to comfortly stand, half-stand/-sit, or
sit--possibly in a wheelchair, during performing kitchen work, as
the level of e.g. the table top can be adjusted to the actual need
of and by the user.
[0005] Especially a wheelchaired user requires substantial free
space below a table top, both in the horizontal depth direction
square to the user edge of the table top, and to the sides--for
having the torso/arms adjacent that edge to reach over the table
and possible installations there, and for easy maneuvering to and
fro, respectively. Therefore bracket structure can support e.g. a
mounted kitchen table top possibly including sink, watertap, and
heater plates for cooking, etc, in an overhanging way from the rear
side, thus eliminating or at least substantially reducing the
obstructing structures below the user side of the table top to
provide free space for e.g. a wheelchaired user.
[0006] As such table tops often require connection to fixed
installations (e.g. electricity, hot/cold tap water, drain) they
are often via the telescoping load-bearing frame assembly mounted
to a wall with built-in outlets for electricity, water and/or
connection to the sewer. In case of relevant wall being estimated
to not possess adequate load-bearing capacity for the telescoping
carrying frame plus the static and dynamic loads imposed thereon,
telescoping columns being fixedly wall-mounted can have a
supplementary stiff supporting leg/foot to transmit vertical load
along the wall to be taken up by the floor via the leg, or even via
the stiff foot, which is able to provide a force-couple to keep the
free user-edge from sinking, if the wall material/structure is very
porous/weak, thus only being able to define the position of the
assembly, while loads must be taken up by the floor.
[0007] Static loads can--in addition to the obvious inherent
part--originate from e.g. one/more cupboards, refrigerator/freezer,
(disc) washing machine, etc. hanging under the tabletop. Dynamic
loads are contributed to by all materials not permanently
positioned, e.g. food-stuff, cooking pots, kitchen utensils, water
in a sink; a contribution also to be calculated with, is the
force-reaction from a person leaning over or grasping the table to
prevent a fall, or the like.
[0008] E.g. instead of being positioned below the table to occupy
space else being usable e.g. to a wheelchair, cupboards can be
positioned conventionally above the table top, at the wall. Here,
they can be mounted to a movable frame structure with a function
corresponding to the one supporting the table top; or the
telescoping load-bearing frame assembly can incorporate a structure
to support e.g. the cupboards at a more elevated level, thus
keeping the relative vertical distance between cupboards and table
top constant, also during height adjustment.
[0009] Above, use in a kitchen has been taken as model for a
description of the background for the invention, but of course,
similar situations are encountered e.g. at a basin in bath/toilet
rooms, at the house-owner's work bench, in institutions, and in
professional working situations, too.
[0010] Normally two columns with telescoping means are mounted to
the wall. Their motions are usually synchronized to avoid jamming
from difference in length of stroke/overall telescoped position,
which can impose very severe and even destructive loads on the
structure. Due to safety and security considerations well known in
the related art, the telescoping movement is often performed via a
screw-and-nut principle, which is inherently self-blocking in a
left-alone situation without power connected, thus avoiding sudden,
unforeseen movements. Mechanical screw systems in the telescoping
columns can be mechanically coupled for synchronization e.g. via a
common axle and local gearing, while e.g. the individual electrical
actuators--one per relevant telescoping column--themselves
functioning according to a screw-and-nut-principle or similar--are
synchronized via a common control means based on pulse counting
without fix reference, thus often necessitating a count reset in an
extreme position.
[0011] 2. Prior Art and Disadvantages
[0012] Prior to filing, a thorough search in the patent literature
for related prior art responded negative.
[0013] The most related prior art is therefore believed to be a
product programme disclosed under the name "KitFlex" by the Danish
producer/marketer firm ROPOX, DK-4700, Denmark. At least up to and
on the day of filing of the first, priority-giving application, the
most related art was publicated via ROPOX' Internet-homepages
www.ropox.com and www.ropox.dk, the specific links being:
http://www.ropox.dk/Katalog/eng/koekkentegninger_uk.htm and
http://www.ropox.dk/Katalog/dan/koekkentegninger.htm, respectively.
The FIGS. 1-4 of the accompanying drawing are copies from these
links (slightly modified by removal of few disturbing details) to
keep and illustrate the most related prior art.
[0014] Telescoping load-bearing frame assemblies according to the
most related prior art--as can be seen directly from FIG. 1-4
without further detailed explanation being necessary--are composed
of two basic frame structures which are precision welded to be able
to telescope by means of at least two columns including elements
from both frames. The lower frame is mounted stationary to a wall
(FIG. 3) and can for reasons mentioned above be supplemented by
legs (FIG. 2) or even feet (FIGS. 1 and 4) for adequate stability.
The upper frame is the relatively moving part of the assembly and
is in an end view of substantially .GAMMA.-shape, the upper
horizontal branch of the .GAMMA. describing a bracket structure
platform frame to support the load, e.g. a table top for kitchen
use as shown in FIG. 3, while the vertical branch of the .GAMMA.
"contains" the moving parts of the telescoping columns co-operating
with their partners from the stationary frame. At the factory such
assembly is completed, i.e. also with mounting and adjustment of
the means for performing the height adjustment movement, which can
be manual mechanically synchronized cranking means (FIG. 1) or
preferably electric actuators separate for each column (FIGS. 2 and
4) synchronized with a (not shown) common control means well-known
in the art. The finished assembly is shipped as a unit with a
fairly bulky structure ready for installation to a wall and for
receiving an e.g. kitchen table top which is fastened to the
bracketing platform frame e.g. with screws from below through the
profiles of the platform or through ears thereon.
[0015] In the handling sequence of such an assembly from the
factory to the fully installed functioning state at the relevant
wall, two major groups of disadvantages are experienced: first, the
shipment and storing of such bulky structures have become
relatively expensive as the volume of standard container modules
used for these purposes, cannot be effectively exploited; second,
many rejections from the customers are experienced requiring a
re-make--not because of bad quality of the delivered product, but
because the informations given in advance from the customer
regarding position of fixed installations for
electricity/water/drain in the relevant wall was incorrect or was
changed during a subsequent building phase without further
information given to the supplier of the assembly ordered for
installation at that wall; therefore the columns and/or the
horizontal beams in the fixed frame can conflict with such outlets,
rendering use thereof impossible; another related disadvantage of
the second group is collision with structures of the table top,
which also might have been added or shifted to another position
after ordering the assembly; such situation easily comes up, e.g.
if the occupant of the related kitchen table is left-handed instead
of being right-handed as expected. Such conflict is easily
understood by comparing FIGS. 1 and 3: the axle with factory-fixed
position through the platform beam and for manual telescoping
movement by means of the separate cranking handle (FIG. 1--far end
of platform frame) can not pass through e.g. the built-in sink in
the table top (FIG. 3--corresponding end of platform area), when
positioned on that assembly.
PURPOSE OF THE INVENTION
[0016] Therefore, the purpose of the invention is to provide an
improved telescoping load-bearing frame assembly of the relevant
type, which eliminates the disadvantages mentioned, plus yields
other benefits as will be explained below.
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
[0017] This purpose is fulfilled with a telescoping load-bearing
frame assembly for selective height adjustment above a floor level
adjacent a wall, comprising: [0018] bracket structure for mounting
of substantially static load structure to be borne; [0019] at least
two telescoping columns comprising means for performing the height
adjustment movement and being self-blocking in the selected height;
[0020] for at least two columns: the movement of the telescoping
columns being synchronized by coupled mechanical means and/or by
common control of individual actuators; [0021] one part of each of
at least two telescoping columns being fixedly wall-mounted and
possibly having a supplementary stiff supporting leg/foot; as such
assembly according to the invention at least is composed of: [0022]
a separate lengthy main beam of constant circumscribed profile
along it's length, for substantially horizontal arrangement, and
having prepared means along its length allowing positioning and
fixation of both vertical telescoping columns and horizontal
bracket structure brackets, with their positions along the beam
being selectable freely or at small modular steps of maximum 50 mm;
[0023] minimum two telescoping columns being separate units and
being provided with specific positioning and fixation means for
mounting to the main beam at the selected positions; and [0024]
minimum two bracket structure brackets being separate units and
being provided with specific positioning and fixation means for
mounting to the main beam at the selected positions.
[0025] In this way the first type of disadvantages can be solved by
shipping and storing the assemblies as separate rod-like parts
permitting a much more efficient filling of a container.
[0026] Disadvantages of the second type can now be avoided as the
positioning of the telescoping columns and of the brackets can wait
for exact definition of fixing point along the main beam, until at
the site of use, where the actual circumstances can be respected,
as the separate columns and brackets now easily can be mounted to
the main beam off factory; this also permitting easier transport
through a building's narrow door openings, etc.
[0027] The telescoping columns are conventionally fixed to the wall
e.g. via integrated ears, possibly with interposed shims to adjust
the columns vertical to a common, ideal wall plane, but in reality
with contact to a physical, uneven wall surface.
[0028] If not simply being holes, the prepared means along the
length of the main beam preferably have the form of undercut
grooves extending continuously and parallel all along the main
beam. Such profiled grooves can be milled out from a massive rod's
profile, but preferably the main beam is a section of an extruded
profile, preferably of metallic material, preferably with a high
content of aluminium, as such metallic alloys both economically can
be extruded directly to the required finished profile, and possess
adequate mechanical properties to fulfill the load-bearing
requirements. An alternative to metallics is e.g.
polymer-composites as glass fiber reinforced polyester, which might
be chosen for installation of the inventive assembly in a corrosive
environment.
[0029] Moreover, the constant circumscribed profile along the main
beam's length can be substantially rectangular, and in the
horizontal mounted position the beam thus can provide two vertical
and two horizontal sides for mounting of brackets and telescoping
columns, respectively. In this way the assembling is further
facilitated, as these flat surfaces easily can be mated by
corresponding flat surfaces on the columns/brackets, then just
requiring simple fixation with minor adjustment, e.g. by set screws
from the columns/brackets pressing on the corresponding flat face
of the main beam, while being fixed e.g. to the groove by means of
tensioning means as e.g. screws.
[0030] Preferably a part of the means for mounting/fixing a
telescoping column and/or a bracket to the main beam can be
positioned in the undercut groove with a dimensional extension
square to the groove direction, which is larger than the groove's
mouth span, the part also having at least one means of connection
to tensioning means, preferably at least one threaded bore for a
screw; the use of a screw as both a positioning element (via it's
diameter in the groove's mouth) and as a tensioning element
(engaging the threaded bore in the blocking part in the undercut
groove from e.g. an ear on the column/bracket) has proven
satisfactory in many situations and represents an very economical
solution.
[0031] While positioning of such blocking part in the groove by
sliding it in from a free end of the groove, always is possible,
this may require removal of parts already mounted, now blocking the
slide-way. Especially for repair situations and cases, where e.g.
an extra bracket is to be mounted because of change in use for
heavier loads, the blocking element to be positioned in the
undercut groove, preferably can have shape and dimensions allowing
for insertion into correct undercut position in the groove from the
side, preferably by some translatoric movement through the groove's
mouth succeeded by some rolling movement in the groove having
sufficient free sectional area to allow such rolling. Then such
mounting can be performed without need for removing e.g. brackets
already mounted: both to the main beam, and to a table top, where
delicate, hard-to-de-and-re-mount details might additionally have
been installed at the free edge in relation to the brackets--thus
saving considerable effort and money by the independant mounting of
e.g. an extra bracket.
[0032] In a situation, where the inventive assembly has the
movement of at least two telescoping columns being synchronized by
means of coupled mechanical means, these coupling means can be a
section of a length of axle material with a constant, non-circular
outer profile along it's length, this profile thus directly
allowing transfer of torsional force-couples in either direction
substantially without backlash, by insertion in/through a
correspondingly formed hole. Thereby also a gear unit for transfer
of the manual cranking movement to telescope the columns and
comprising such corresponding through hole, can be moved freely
along that synchronizing axle to be positioned and fixed at a
suited location, not interfering with e.g. a sink built-into the
table top. A driving mechanism with a through hole corresponding
the profile of the synchronizing axle can instead of being a manual
cranking unit be a controllable elektromotor gearing unit with
similar mounting facilities.
[0033] Preferably the mechanically coupling length of axle material
with constant outer profile along it's length is
insertable/retractable through one or more of the relevant
telescoping columns. Thereby the mechanical coupling from the
synchronizing axle to a telescoping column and/or a manual
cranking/elektropowered gear unit can easily be interrupted in a
part-exchange-situation by sliding the axle in the direction(s) of
it's axis. Also total removal of this axle is facilitated this
way.
[0034] For cost and administrative reasons the telescoping columns
and/or the brackets preferable are identical, respectively, thus
reducing the number of stocked/produced articles, and also further
eliminating the risk of performing an incorrect mounting of the
inventive assembly at the site of use.
[0035] Preferably the main beam can comprise means for mounting
other load-bearing structure for load-bearing of substantially
static loads at another height than that defined by the brackets.
E.g. in the kitchen situation also a cupboard can then be mounted
to the assembly for height adjustment simultaneously with the
kitchen table top, thus eliminating a separate device for height
adjustment of the cupboard. Similarly in e.g. a bathroom e.g. a
mirror, lightning, side cupboards, and possibly mains outlet for
e.g. an electric hair dryer can be mounted for movement
simultaneously with a hand basin carried by the brackets.
[0036] Finally an obvious alternative use of the inventive assembly
scoped by the claims, yields a resulting telescoping load-bearing
frame assembly for selective height adjustment above a floor level,
which is free-standing independant of a wall. The inventive
assembly then can have one main beam horizontally positioned on at
least two telescoping columns with feet, or can have more
horizontal main beams co-operating in a common level for common
load-bearing support of a structure possibly also supported on
brackets mounted to the main beams. In the latter case the columns
normally only need legs for the contact to the floor, as the
mounted telescoping columns are sufficiently spread to stably
support the applied load without need for further stabilizing
force-couples from feet.
SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0037] The drawing accompanying this description is showing, partly
prior art assemblies, partly--as non-limitating examples--preferred
embodiments of the present invention.
[0038] Of said drawing, FIG. 1-4 are inclosed to illustrate the
most related prior art as above described, and are showing in:
[0039] FIG. 1 a PRIOR ART telescoping load-bearing frame assembly
for selective height adjustment above a floor level adjacent a
wall, this version having feet at the columns and manual cranking
by means of a separate handle;
[0040] FIG. 2 a PRIOR ART telescoping load-bearing frame assembly
for selective height adjustment above a floor level adjacent a
wall, this version having an individual electric actuator for each
telescoping column fitted with a hardly visible leg;
[0041] FIG. 3 a PRIOR ART telescoping load-bearing frame assembly
mounted to an imaginary stable wall and carrying a kitchen table
top including sink with drain, water tap, and heater plates for
cooking; above the assembly with the table top some cupboards as
attached to the same imaginary wall;
[0042] FIG. 4 another PRIOR ART assembly to be regarded as a FIG.
2-version with feet replacing legs, or as a FIG. 1-version with the
manual drive replaced by actuators.
[0043] The inventive assembly is illustrated in the drawing's FIGS.
5-12 showing in:
[0044] FIG. 5 a mounted inventive assembly with legs and manual
drive;
[0045] FIG. 6 a slightly exploded version of the FIG. 5 embodiment,
showing essential details;
[0046] FIG. 7 a perspective view from above of an inventive bracket
complete with fixation and adjustment means for a main beam
undercut groove;
[0047] FIG. 8 the end of the inventive bracket from FIG. 7, to be
mounted to a vertical side of a main beam;
[0048] FIG. 9 the bracket from FIG. 7 and/or FIG. 8 as seen from
the free end towards the ears with the mounting means;
[0049] FIG. 10 a low quality photo, to illustrate blocking parts
positioned in respective undercut grooves in a main beam;
[0050] FIG. 11 use of the inventive assembly for mounting a hand
basin in a bathroom using specialized bracket for an else wall
mounted basin; and
[0051] FIG. 12 use of the inventive assembly for mounting a basin
of integral bench-top-type to be supported from below by lying on
the structure.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0052] In FIG. 1-4 PRIOR ART telescoping load-bearing frame
assemblies 1 from the same family for selective height adjustment
above a floor level adjacent a wall, are shown in a slightly
modified copy to keep the reference, as mentioned, to the most
related prior art.
[0053] Easily identifiable from FIGS. 1-4 are: two telescoping
columns 2 for each assembly (FIGS. 1, 2, 4), which as mentioned can
be supplementary fitted with a foot 3 (FIGS. 1, 4--if the wall is
very weak) or with a leg 4 (FIG. 2 (hardly visible) to transmit
just vertical forces). An .GAMMA.-configured upper/movable welded
frame structure comprises bracket structure 5 in form of a platform
in the top .GAMMA. branch, and internal parts for the telescoping
columns 2 in the .GAMMA.-vertical branch. A lower, stationary frame
6 for mounting to a wall (23, FIG. 3) comprises ears 14 for the
fastening means to the wall and is held together via horizontal
traverses 7 to exactly define the parallel spacing of the outer
telescoping column 2 parts to perfectly match the corresponding
inner parts from the upper frame 5. The assembly's telescoping
movement can be performed via actuators 8 individual to each column
2 and being commonly controlled according to well-known principles;
else the columns can be manually driven by incorporating a gearing
and a self-locking screw/nut-combination in each column. From a
separate handle 13 via a crancking axle 12 to a gear 11, these
manually driven telescoping columns 9 can be driven simultaneously,
as the synchronising axle 10 both is passing through the manual
gear 11 and is reaching the internal gearing in each manual column
9. Of course the internal gearing, etc. in the column is omitted,
if the column is driven by an externally mounted actuator 8.
[0054] E.g. a kitchen table top 16 (FIG. 3) complete with sink 17
including drain 18, water tap 19, electrical heater plates 20, and
trim/controls 21 at the free edge of the table top 16 is--often at
the site of installation/use--mounted on the assembly via e.g.
screws through ears 15 of the bracket structure 5. In a relevant
kitchen, cupboards 23 (FIG. 3) can be mounted to the wall 23 not to
occupy space below the kitchen table, for the benefice of a
wheelchaired user.
[0055] An inventive assembly 41 is shown in FIG. 5 in a
"ready-for-wall-mount-and-table top-mount" state; the same assembly
41 is shown somewhat exploded in FIG. 6, especially to further
elucidate the mounting principle to the main beam 42. The
illustrated version in FIGS. 5, 6 is meant for a wall with fairly
good supporting characteristics as legs 4 here are chosen at the
manual telescoping columns 43, instead of feet as 3 or nothing (for
the very stable wall with excellent load-bearing properties). A
manual version for cranking via handle 13, gear 45 and
synchronizing axle 10 to the two telescoping columns 43 is shown.
The telescoping columns 43 are constructed according to the same
principles as the prior art type 9, but are finished as separate
units with mounting surface and means for the main beam 42 in this
embodiment having a rectangular circumscribed profile. Instead of
the prior art platform bracketing structure 5, the inventive
assembly comprises separate brackets 44, preferably manufactured to
all be similar for the same assembly (variations of course can
occur e.g. due to varying depth of table tops or special
requirements for articles to be mounted). At the bracket free end
46 a fitting 51 for connection to trim/controls as 21 and having an
ear 15 for fastening to a table top as 16 can be mounted with
conventional means.
[0056] Now to FIGS. 7-10 for a more detailed explanation of the
mounting to the main beam 42, which is explained for a bracket 44,
but is similar for columns 43 and manual drive gear 45. As roughly
shown in FIG. 10, the main beam 42, whose right end profile is
seen, downwards and to the left in FIG. 10 shows undercut grooves
53 and 52 respectively, especially for mounting of the columns and
of the brackets.
[0057] A separate bracket from FIGS. 5, 6 is perspectively shown in
FIG. 7 in the same position. In FIG. 7 at the mounting end of the
bracket 44 is shown an ear 47 having a threaded bore for an
adjustment screw 50, and a through-hole for positioning and
tensioning means 49. Of course such means 49 can be elaborated with
profilations and exact dimensions to perform the fixation in a
groove in a main beam 42, without play to any desired degree, but
in the present embodiment, simple positioning and tensioning means
as screws 49 has proven satisfactory for the intended purpose.
Through the ear 47 the screw 49 is engaging the threaded bore in a
blocking part 48, which from FIGS. 8 and 9 can be seen to be
designed as an oblong flat profile with threads for two positioning
and tensioning screws 49 through a respective ear 47. From FIG. 10
can now easily be understood, that the bracket 44 (to the left)
with loosened screws 49 and blocking part 48, from the end of the
main beam 42 can be slid into the undercut groove 52 behind the
main beam vertical side; at the same time the bracket 44 end face
is sliding along the beam to the desired position along the beam
length (to be free of e.g. sink and other obstructing structures
below the table top to be positioned afterwards). In correct
position the screws 49 are tightened so the blocking part firmly
seats in an undercut position in the groove 52 for stably attaching
the bracket end face to the beam side face. Normally the main beam
42 from the combination of size, extruded profilation, and material
possess the necessary mechanical properties to stably and stiffly
take up bending and twisting moments imposed, especially via the
brackets 44 and columns 43. But if the free end of a bracket for
some reason should need to be raised, this free end can be adjusted
up to the desired level via the adjustment screws 50 from the
bracket ear 47, being adjusted to press adequately against the
vertical side of the main beam below the tensioning screws 49. The
mechanics in such adjustment is well known in the art; such
adjustment is performed during the fixation of the bracket 44 to
the main beam 42. The arrangement most clearly shown in FIG. 9 also
permits minor adjustment of the bracket free end 46 in the main
beam 42 direction.
[0058] Also the telescoping columns 43 and/or corresponding
actuator operated models, are mounted to the main beam 42 according
to the same principle; as 54 a blocking part for a column is shown
in FIG. 5 and in FIG. 10. Also the columns can at the site of use
be slid along the main beam (fully independant of the brackets and
vice versa) to a desired position free of built-in outlets in the
wall, etc, before fixation to the main beam 42 by means of screw 49
through hole in column (FIG. 10).
[0059] E.g. at retroplacement of an extra bracket between other
brackets much effort can be saved, if the blocking part 48 can be
slid sideways into the undercut groove and rolled therein to be
"fished" to have the correct blocking position for engagement of
the screws 49 from the bracket ears 47 (obvious means for this of
course can be provided); the undercut bracket mounting groove 52 in
FIG. 10 is voluminous enough to offer this facility, while the
downfacing undercut groove 53 for column mounting does not offer
this feature in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, due to a less
voluminous groove profile.
[0060] Normally the synchronizing axle 10 has a hexagonal profile
offering at the same time favourable torsional stiffness and
adequate non-circularity to permit direct transfer of momentum from
the cranking gear 45 to the gearing in the manual telescoping
columns 43 by insertion in mating holes. Via a mounting plate 57
the gear 45 slid to a desired unobstructed position is mounted same
way as a bracket 44. The plate is formed so the hex through hole in
mounted gear 45 is aligned with the corresponding column hex
through holes used. Alternatively, instead of a manual cranking
gear 45, a suitedly designed electric gear motor unit (57, FIG. 11)
can be provided with similar mounting facilities and through hole
for the synchronizing axle. As also the columns preferably are
identical, each is provided with two aligned outer holes 55 (FIGS.
5, 6, 10) permitting through-put of the synchronizing axle 10. This
axle 10 normally is delivered a bit shorter than the main beam 42
and of course always can be adapted to an adequate shorter length
to just reach the most distant manually telescoping columns 43.
With a loose(ned) gear 45 hanging thereon, this axle 10 easily can
be liberated from the two telescoping columns 43 by a zig-zagging
movement in a horizontal plane--even if the assembly is positioned
between walls adjacent both ends of the main beam 42.
[0061] An extra column might be mounted midway between the extreme
columns 43 for purpose of supplying added lifting capacity during
height adjustment and/or added stiffness against bending down of
the free edge of a very deep table top. In the first situation a
standard manual telescoping column 43 is used; in the latter
situation an "empty" telescoping column of the (same basic) type
used at individual actuator operation might be used, as "only" the
load-bearing precision guiding feature is used in this situation;
such version of course also has two holes 55 for axle passage. For
a liberation in this case of the synchronizing axle 10 as explained
above--e.g. for shifting the gear 45 to a new position at the other
side of a fix installation in the wall obstructing the sliding
movement along the mounted axle 10 to the new position, e.g. at
renewal of the kitchen table top to another "layout"--the
third/extra leg must be freed from the main beam, the wall, and
possibly the floor, to follow the axle movements. The benefits here
are, that the overall positioning and stability of the assembly is
kept during this work, so the extra leg(s) easily remount
afterwards. Of course such handling situation can be avoided by use
of shorter axle sections of suited lengths connected and/or guided
by suitable coupling(s), e.g. of demountable type or being an
element in the drive-train present anyway having a sufficiently
long through-hole for safe reception of two axle ends.
[0062] Of course also an automated version of the inventive
assembly 41 can be established with individually actuator operated
telescoping columns, as in the prior art in FIGS. 2 and 4. In an
actuator-version with common electronic control of movement and
stroke, of course, the parts for manual operation as 13, 45, 57,
and 10, and of course the columns 43, are not delivered; but the
other components as the main beam 42, the brackets 44 with mounting
means and fittings 51, and possible legs 4/feet 3 are the same
components. Therefore also a later shift from manual drive to
automated actuator activation is an easy job to perform at an
already fully installed and operational inventive assembly.
[0063] Especially the automated version with individual actuators
at the respective telescoping columns, opens a beneficial
possibility for synchronized movement of the columns, even if space
between the columns is elsewise occupied, so no room is left for a
synchronizing axle and/or drive means thereabout. Also combined use
of e.g. two main beams 42 in a corner setup e.g. in a kitchen is
made possible by means of individually actuated columns; at least
three actuator columns are then normally used, the one in/near the
corner supporting an end of both main beams 42. The nose shown at
the column tops under the blocking part 54 in FIG. 6 can be
modified for this purpose to function as an ear for a second
blocking part slid into the groove 53 at the other main beam end in
the corner. By the common electronic control of all (three) columns
delicate angled synchronizing transmission is avoided. Preferably
the brackets 44 to the two corner main beams 42 are arranged so the
bonding line between the two table top parts which often are
contributing to such angled table surface, is positioned resting
near/on a bracket for mutual stable fixation of the bonded edges
via the bracket. Table top mounting holes as 56 in the brackets 44,
positioned in two adequately spaced rows along a bracket could be
beneficial to such bonding line support.
[0064] Both an angular setup for a corner as just described with
legs or feet at lower column ends for floor contact, and a linear
setup as in FIG. 5, but with feet, of the inventive assembly, can
be stably standing "alone" on a floor without reference to a wall.
Also an arrangement with e.g. two linear setups "on legs", facing
each other can yield a stable structure if mutual stability can be
acquired via the common table top. Therefore also such obvious uses
for freestanding versions combined from the inventive parts, are
scoped by the claims.
[0065] Of course a wall mounted inventive assembly also can include
extension/supplement to also carry e.g. a superposed cupboard in
constant relative distance to the structure carried by the
brackets, for height adjustment synchronous with the main
beam/bracket structure.
[0066] FIG. 11 illustrates use of the inventive assembly for
mounting a hand basin in a bathroom. Here, specialized brackets 58
are used, with intentional short horizontal reach and vertical
contacting face with slit/holes for mounting. In this way a
vertical wall is simulated for the mounting of an else wall mounted
fix hand basin. Also a toilet bowl for wall mounting and the like
can be mounted this way. Even if the inventive assembly in this
example is not much wider than the basin self, the mounting
environment is expected to leave free space for use of an
synchronizing axle 10 and an electric gearmotor unit 57. At the
beam end, at 59, an example of another design than i FIG. 10, of a
profile section of an inventive beam is distinguishable.
[0067] FIG. 12 shows use of the inventive assembly for mounting a
basin of bench-top-type consisting of both table top and basin. In
this exemplifying situation a solution with individually actuator
driven columns 43 is chosen. To fully support the bench-top basin,
two brackets 44 are here connected with a front bar 60 to form some
U-shaped structure to yield continuous support under all edges of
the basin, possibly via some load distributing padding as such
basins often are made from stiff. but fragile ceramic material.
Bath tubs etc. can be mounted correspondingly. The bar 60 can be
connected to the brackets 44 by any suited means, also including
e.g. welding, and the bar can additionally be used for mounting of
other articles. Both here and in e.g. the FIG. 11 situation,
supplementary structure of the inventive assembly can hold e.g
mirror, lightning, etc. for movement/position synchronous with the
basin.
[0068] In addition to the above described preferred embodiment of,
partly a manually operated version of, partly an automated
gearmotor/actuator operated version of, the telescoping
load-bearing frame assembly for selective height adjustment above a
floor level according to the present invention, any suited other
methods, materials, components, treatments, alternatives, analogies
and detailed designs and constructions, etc, can be scoped by the
invention, when such realization with knowledge to the information
here given, presents no problem to a skilled person.
[0069] The extent of the present invention applied patent
protection for, is specified by the appended claims.
* * * * *
References