U.S. patent application number 13/492252 was filed with the patent office on 2012-09-27 for method of assembling a platform system.
This patent application is currently assigned to TAIT TOWERS, INC.. Invention is credited to Adam DAVIS, James FAIRORTH, Michael TAIT.
Application Number | 20120240510 13/492252 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 41137811 |
Filed Date | 2012-09-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120240510 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
TAIT; Michael ; et
al. |
September 27, 2012 |
METHOD OF ASSEMBLING A PLATFORM SYSTEM
Abstract
A method of assembling a platform system is disclosed. The
method includes positioning a first frame having one or more
panels, then securing a first portable support to the first frame,
securing a second frame to the first frame to form a first
continuous platform level. The method includes positioning a
plurality of frames having one or more panels to form a first
continuous platform level, then securing a first portable support
to at least one of the plurality of frames. The method includes
forming a first continuous platform level from a plurality of
frames having one or more panels. The method includes securing
portable supports to at least one of the plurality of frames,
securing an additional frame having one or more panels to the
portable supports, and forming a second continuous platform level
from a plurality of additional frames.
Inventors: |
TAIT; Michael; (Lititz,
PA) ; DAVIS; Adam; (Leola, PA) ; FAIRORTH;
James; (Manheim, PA) |
Assignee: |
TAIT TOWERS, INC.
Lititz
PA
|
Family ID: |
41137811 |
Appl. No.: |
13/492252 |
Filed: |
June 8, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13405745 |
Feb 27, 2012 |
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13492252 |
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12135574 |
Jun 9, 2008 |
8136460 |
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13405745 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/741.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04G 2001/158 20130101;
F16B 7/025 20130101; E04B 1/003 20130101; E04H 3/24 20130101; E04G
1/15 20130101; E04H 3/28 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/741.1 |
International
Class: |
E04G 21/14 20060101
E04G021/14 |
Claims
1. A method of assembling a platform system, comprising:
positioning a first frame having one or more panels; then securing
a first portable support to the first frame; then securing a second
frame to the first frame to form a first continuous platform
level.
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising securing a second
portable support to the second frame.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising securing additional
portable supports to the first continuous platform level.
4. The method of claim 1, further comprising securing a first
portable support to at least one of the bottom surface and the top
surface of the first frame.
5. The method of claim 1, further comprising securing a second
continuous platform level to the first continuous platform
level.
6. The method of claim 1, further comprising disassembling the
platform system into smaller components suitable for
transportation.
7. The method of claim 1, further comprising disassembling the
platform system by releasing the first support member by a manual
force.
8. The method of claim 3, wherein securing additional portable
supports includes permitting unsupported placement of the portable
supports into receiving members of a plurality of additional frames
having lengths of 8 feet or greater apart.
9. A method of assembling a platform system, comprising:
positioning a plurality of frames having one or more panels to form
a first continuous platform level; then securing a first portable
support to at least one of the plurality of frames.
10. The method of claim 9, further comprising securing a second
portable support to the first continuous platform level.
11. The method of claim 9, further comprising securing an
additional frame having one or more panels to the first portable
support and the second portable support.
12. The method of claim 9, further comprising securing a second
continuous platform level to the first continuous platform
level.
13. The method of claim 9, further comprising securing a third
portable support to at least one of the bottom surface and the top
surface of the additional frame.
14. The method of claim 9, further comprising disassembling the
platform system into smaller components suitable for
transportation.
15. The method of claim 9, further comprising disassembling the
platform system by releasing the first support member by a manual
force.
16. A method of assembling a platform system, comprising: forming a
first continuous platform level from a plurality of frames having
one or more panels, the plurality of frames including one or more
receiving members; the one or more receiving members having a
casing with a magnetic panel; securing portable supports to at
least one of the plurality of frames; securing an additional frame
having one or more panels to the portable supports; and forming a
second continuous platform level from a plurality of additional
frames; wherein the adjacent receiving members are magnetically
attracted.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising engaging at least
one of a plurality of secondary support members to at least one of
the portable supports.
18. The method of claim 16, further comprising engaging at least
one of a plurality of secondary support members to at least one of
the additional frames.
19. The method of claim 16, wherein securing the portable supports
further comprises engaging with mating tapered surfaces.
20. The method of claim 16, further comprising disassembling the
support structure into smaller components suitable for storage or
transportation.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation of U.S.
application Ser. No. 13/405,745, now pending, filed Feb. 27, 2012,
which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 12/135,574,
now U.S. Pat. No. 8,136,460, filed Jun. 9, 2008, each of which are
hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is directed to a method of assembling
a platform system. In particular, the present disclosure is
directed to securing portable supports to frames attached to each
other to form a platform system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Portable structures, such as stages or platforms, must be
capable of being assembled and disassembled into relatively small
units that can be compactly and quickly loaded onto trucks or
airplanes for transport. The portable structures must be capable of
being assembled and disassembled by personnel with little or no
technical skill. The portable structures support a large amount of
weight and are subjected to external conditions, lateral forces,
loud vibrations, and substantial wear.
[0004] The portable structures are generally comprised of systems
of primary and secondary supports that provide the necessary
stability. These systems are often comprised of supports requiring
use of tools, such as wrenches and screwdrivers, to assemble and
disassemble the portable structures. Locking mechanisms for
supports have been used; however, they are difficult to assemble
and disassemble, subject to misalignment, require a plurality of
pieces, require tools for certain adjustments, do not offer
adequate stability, do not have easily replaceable parts, and do
not work well in conjunction with other parts of the portable
structures.
[0005] Portable structures typically used in the art include those
structures that have perpendicular members extending from the
platform, which are attached at the joints between decking members.
The structures known in the art suffer from the drawback that they
are cumbersome to assemble, subject to misalignment, causing
instability in the structure, and are subject to lateral forces
during use.
[0006] What is needed is a portable support and a platform system
that are easily assembled and disassembled with little or no
technical skill, is not substantially subject to misalignment,
requires few pieces, can be substantially assembled and
disassembled by hand, offers the necessary stability, has
replaceable parts, and works in conjunction with the other parts of
the portable structure.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] In an exemplary embodiment, a method of assembling a
platform system includes positioning a first frame having one or
more panels, then securing a first portable support to the first
frame. Then the method further includes securing a second frame to
the first frame to form a first continuous platform level.
[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, a method of assembling a
platform system includes positioning a plurality of frames having
one or more panels to form a first continuous platform level, then
securing a first portable support to at least one of the plurality
of frames.
[0009] In another exemplary embodiment, a method of assembling a
platform system includes forming a first continuous platform level
from a plurality of frames having one or more panels, the plurality
of frames including one or more receiving members. The one or more
receiving members has a casing with a magnetic panel. The method
includes securing portable supports to at least one of the
plurality of frames, securing an additional frame having one or
more panels to the portable supports, and forming a second
continuous platform level from a plurality of additional frames.
The adjacent receiving members are magnetically attracted.
[0010] One advantage of the present disclosure is ease of assembly
and disassembly of the portable structure, reducing the possibility
for assembly error in the portable structures, including in
multi-level portable structures.
[0011] Another advantage of the present disclosure is the ability
for individuals with little or no technical skill to assemble or
disassemble the portable supports and the platform systems.
[0012] Still another advantage of the present disclosure is the
substantial stability of the portable structure due to the portable
support minimizing swaying, bending, and other lateral forces.
[0013] Still another advantage of the present disclosure is the
relatively small number of separate parts required for use of the
portable support in conjunction with the stage or platform
system.
[0014] Still another advantage of the present disclosure is the
ability to substantially be assembled, disassembled, and adjusted
by hand.
[0015] Still another advantage of the present disclosure is that
the portable support may be positioned and locked in the standing
position, making the installation quicker and less burdensome on
the assembler.
[0016] Still another advantage of the present disclosure is that
the portable support occupies less space when it is detached from
the other parts of the portable structure and, thus, diminishes the
space required for transportation and storage of the portable
structure using the portable support.
[0017] Other features and advantages of the present invention will
be apparent from the following more detailed description of the
preferred embodiment, taken in conjunction with the accompanying
drawings which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the
invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 shows a top perspective view of a portable platform
system according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 2 shows an elevational view of a portable support
according to an embodiment of the disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 3 shows an exploded view of a portable support, and a
corresponding receiving member according to an embodiment of the
present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 4 shows a portable support according to an embodiment
of the disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a portable support in
engagement with a receiving member according to an embodiment of
the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 6 shows a portable support according to another
embodiment of the disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 7 shows a top perspective view of a portion of a frame
and receiving member according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 8 shows a sectional view of a frame according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 9 shows a sectional view of a frame according to
another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 10 shows a top perspective view of a casing attachment
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 11 shows a top perspective view of a casing attachment
according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 12 shows a top perspective view of a secondary support
structure according to another embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 13A and 13B show orthogonal views of a secondary
support according to another embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 14 shows an exploded view of a portable support system
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of a portable support
according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 16 shows a top perspective view of a footing structure
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 17 shows a top perspective view of a footing structure
according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 18 shows a top perspective view of a portion of
portable support according to another embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 19 shows cross-sectional view of a junction of portable
support system according to an embodiment of the present
disclosure.
[0037] Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used
throughout the drawings to represent the same parts.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0038] FIG. 1 shows a platform system 101 comprising a plurality of
frames 102 supported by portable supports 103, a plurality of
secondary supports 105, and having a plurality of the platform
panels 109 thereon. The platform panels 109 may be any type of
panels 109 desirable for use with the platform system 101. In
addition, panels 109 may include structural, aesthetic and/or
theatrical components. For example, the platform panels 109 may
include plywood, glass, metal, video components, lighting
components, or any other structural, aesthetic and/or theatrical
component. In addition, the frames 102 each include four receiving
members 207 (see e.g., FIGS. 2 and 3). Although this embodiment is
shown with frames 102 having four receiving members 207, the frames
102 may contain any number of receiving members 207 suitable for
providing the support for the frame 102 and the panels 109. The
embodiment shown in FIG. 1 includes a multilevel portion 110 and a
single level portion 113. Each of the multilevel portion 110 and
the single level portion 113 are made up of a plurality of frames
102 and panels 109. The frame 102 and panels 109 on the upper
section 111 of the multilevel portion 110 are supported by a
plurality of portable supports 103. The portable supports 103
extend from the lower section 112 of the multilevel portion 110.
The portable supports 103 are engaged with receiving members 207 of
frames 102 in the lower section 112. The portable supports 103 in
the multilevel portion 110 may be friction fit and held by gravity
or may be locked into place with a locking mechanism (see e.g.,
FIGS. 2-3). Other mechanisms may be provided to further engage the
portable supports 103 to the receiving members 207. For example,
grooves, features, and interlocking features may be utilized to
further provide engagement between the portable support 103 and
receiving member 207. The single level portion 113 includes a
plurality of portable supports 103 arranged to support a single
level of frames 102 and panels 109. The portable supports 103 in
the single level portion 113 includes secondary supports 105 that
engage the frame 102 and the secondary support structure 107. The
secondary supports 105 provide increased resistance to lateral
forces.
[0039] Also shown in FIG. 1 are wheels 106, which provide contact
with the underlying surface of the platform system 101. Although
wheels 106 are shown, other structures may be utilized including,
but not limited to, rollers, fixed feet, stakes, posts, or other
structures suitable for engaging the surface underlying the
platform system 101. As shown in the multilevel portion 110, the
wheels 106 are attached to the panels 109 and/or frame 102 to
permit rolling or moving of the system 101 even after assembly.
Likewise, the single level portion 113 includes footing structures
104 having wheels that are attached to the portable support 103 and
permit rolling or moving of the system 101 even after assembly. In
another embodiment of the disclosure the footing structures 104 can
be substituted with a stabilizing device. The stabilizing device
could be a device formed of a solid substance (such as concrete,
plastic, or other solids that can be worked with in liquid form), a
mechanical system providing shock absorption, or other systems
sufficient to provide stability for the portable support 103 and/or
frame 102.
[0040] The receiving members 207 arranged along the frame 102 to
permit engagement with portable supports 103 from either the top
surface or from the bottom to permit stacking of platform levels.
That is, portable supports may be mated to the receiving member 207
from two directions, permitting the formation of multiple levels.
Although the multilevel portion 110 is shown as two platform
levels, any number of additional levels may be formed. In addition,
the distance between platform levels may vary by providing portable
supports 103 of varying lengths on each level.
[0041] In addition, the receiving members 207 permit engagement
with additional staging structures desirable for staging or
platform use. For example, while not so limited, as shown in FIG.
1, additional staging structures, such as stairs 115, may be
engaged to the platform system 101 by insertion of a portion
thereof into receiving members 207. Likewise, railings 117 may also
be inserted into receiving members 207. Engagement may include any
suitable engagement into receiving member 207, including, but not
limited to gravity, interlocking, latching or magnetic attraction.
Other staging structures may likewise be engaged to the platform
system 101 by engagement with the receiving member.
[0042] The platform system 101 is easily assembled and disassembled
by people of little or no technical skill. In addition, the
platform system 101 provides resistance to lateral forces such as
swaying or bending, the platform system 101 is not substantially
subject to misalignment, the platform system 101 requires few
pieces for assembly, the platform system 101 usually does not
require tools for assembly or disassembly, the platform system 101
offers the necessary stability, the platform system 101 has
replaceable parts, and the platform system 101 works in conjunction
with the other parts of the platform system 101.
[0043] FIGS. 2 and 3 shows an embodiment of the portable support
103 engaged with a receiving member 207 according to an embodiment
of the present disclosure. The portable support 103 comprises a
support member 201, a locking mechanism, and a footing structure
104. The portable support 103, as shown in FIG. 2, is substantially
a cylindrical support but could be of any geometry capable of
supporting the frame 102 and panels 109 and loads provided thereon.
The support member 201 can be made of any material but is best made
of light weight and durable materials that can withstand external
environmental conditions, abuse by people of little or no technical
skill, and frequent transportation. The support member 201 is also
best made of a material that allows for the application of a
coating. This coating can be used for aesthetic purposes or to
improve the ability of the support member 201 to withstand external
environmental conditions. In one embodiment, a plurality of the
support members 201 may be fabricated with substantially identical
dimensions or marked with an identifier, such as colors, in order
to allow the support members 201 to be interchanged, reducing the
possibility for assembly error, especially in the assembly of the
multilevel platform system 101.
[0044] The tapered portion 229 is attached to or unitarily formed
at an end of the support member 201 (see e.g., FIG. 4). A footing
structure 104 is attached to an end of the support member 201
opposite tapered portion 229. As shown in FIG. 2, the tapered
portion 229 is engaged with receiving member 207.
[0045] One embodiment of the present disclosure, as visible in FIG.
3, includes a locking mechanism made up of a retention device 211,
latching feature 203, alignment member 213, flange 215, tapered
portion 229, attachment portion 231, and at least one channel 217.
In the system 101 shown in FIG. 1, the locking mechanism is present
in the portable supports 103 present in the single level portion
113. The locking mechanism may be positioned in multiple
orientations by lining up channel 217 with the pin 219 of the
receiving member 207 (see e.g. FIG. 3). Releasing mechanism 209 is
arranged along a surface of the support member 201. The releasing
mechanism 209 is preferably arranged as a sleeve or otherwise
gripable structure that is manipulatable by hand. The releasing
mechanism 209 can be operated by hand to disengage the retention
device 211 and latching feature 203. The latching feature 203 is a
latch, protrusion or other feature of the retention device 211 that
engages one or more surfaces of the receiving member 207. The
latching feature 203 extends through the tapered portion 229 and
provides a surface extending therefrom that is capable of engaging
a surface of the receiving member 207. As shown in FIG. 3, a series
of mounting pins 243 and springs 241 are operably mounted to
provide the releasably pivotable structure of the retention device
211 and the releasing mechanism 209. However, the structure of the
portable support is not limited to the particular arrangement shown
in FIG. 3.
[0046] The locking mechanism comprises a retention device 211 and
latching feature 203, an attachment portion 231, and an alignment
member 213, which further comprises at least one channel 217. The
tapered portion 229 can be manually inserted into the receiving
member 207. Upon inserting the tapered portion 229 into the
receiving member 207, a pin 219 in the receiving member is lined up
with the channel 217 in the locking mechanism to position the
orientation of the locking mechanism in relation to the receiving
member 207. In one embodiment the locking mechanism produces an
audible clicking noise indicating that it is properly engaged to
the receiving member 207. Upon fully inserting the locking
mechanism into the receiving member 207, the retention device 211
engages a catch in the receiving member 207. The catch can be a
hole, a slot, a groove, a notch or any other structure or feature
allowing for the latching feature 203 to releasably attach lip 218
(see FIG. 5) of the receiving member 207. To disengage the locking
mechanism 203, the releasing mechanism 209 is manually adjusted,
resulting in the retention device 211 disengaging the latching
feature 203 from the receiving member 207.
[0047] As shown in FIGS. 3-5, operation of locking mechanism is now
described. A pin 245 secured in tapered portion 229 also provides a
pivotable connection with retention device 211. As shown in FIG. 4,
slots 247 and 249 are found in tapered portion 229. Slot 247
provides visibility of the interior of tapered portion 229 to
simplify installation of pin 245 through retention device 211.
Latching feature 203 extends through slot 249 to permit engagement
with lip 218 (see FIG. 5). An opening 251 is formed in retaining
device 211 to receive pin 243 that is secured in releasing
mechanism 209. Disposed between opening 251 and latching feature
203 is a protrusion 253 that is configured to receive spring 241.
Spring 241 urges locking mechanism 203 to pivot about pin 245 so
that locking mechanism 203 extends through tapered portion 229. A
spring 257 is disposed between a pin 255 secured in support member
201 and pin 243 secured in releasing mechanism 209. Spring 257
urges releasing mechanism 209 to move along support member 201
toward tapered portion 229.
[0048] In operation, in response to receiving member 207 being
aligned and directed over and into engagement with tapered portion
229 of portable support 103, the inside surface of support cone 223
makes contact with latching feature 203. Further directed movement
of receiving number 207 with respect to portable support 103 urges
latching feature 203 to pivotably retract through slot 249
sufficiently to permit latching feature 203 to engage lip 218. This
engagement, normally accompanied by an audible "click", secures
receiving member 207 to portable support 103.
[0049] To release receiving member 207 from portable support 103,
application of a sufficient force applied to releasing mechanism
209 in a direction away from tapered portion 229 urges releasing
mechanism 209 away from tapered portion 229. Pin 243 engages
opening 251, compressing spring 241, and urging or actuating
retention device 211 to pivotably move about pin 245 so that
latching feature 203 recedes within slot 249. After latching
feature 203 sufficiently recedes to disengage lip 218, receiving
member 207 may be separated from portable support 103. It is to be
understood that other arrangements may also be used.
[0050] In addition, the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 includes a
second portable support 103' extending from the receiving member
207. Although the embodiment shown includes a second portable
support 103', stairs 115, railings 117 or other structures may
include a footing structure 104 configured to engage support cone
223 of receiving member 207 and may be engaged with the receiving
member (see e.g., FIG. 1).
[0051] In one embodiment, the tapered portion 229 of portable
support 103 resembles a tapered or frusto-conical geometry. The
tapered portion 229 is not limited to a frusto-conical shape, and
may include conical, pyramidal or other tapered geometries capable
of transmitting loads at non-perpendicular angles. The tapered
portion 229 provides an angle that allows resistance to lateral
forces when engaged with receiving member 207. Further, the tapered
portion 229 assists in alignment and ease of assembly.
[0052] The attachment portion 231 of portable support 103 may be
attached to the support member 201 in any suitable manner. In one
embodiment, the attachment portion 231 may be shrink fitted into a
hollow support portion by heating the support member 201 to a
temperature sufficient to cause the support member 201 to expand to
a diameter sufficient to permit the fitting of the attachment
portion 231, wherein the support member 201 is cooled to tighten
the connection. A flange 215 may also be provided to permit easy
attachment of the attachment portion 231 to the support member 201
and easy alignment of the attachment portion 231 to the receiving
member 207 during assembly.
[0053] FIG. 2 further shows the secondary support structure 107,
which is optional, comprising a set of the hook members 221 (see
e.g., FIG. 12). Hook members 221 are arranged to permit at least
one of the secondary supports 105 to be attached to the secondary
support structure 107 allowing increased stability for the platform
system 101. The engagement of the locking mechanism with the
receiving member 207 includes a rotational positioning that
arranges the hook members 221 in an orientation that permits
placement and locking engagement of the secondary supports 105 to
the portable support 103 and to the frame 102 (see e.g., FIG. 1).
The secondary supports 105 may be fastened to the frame 102 in any
suitable manner, including by fasteners, latches, hooks or other
clipping or retaining structures.
[0054] As visible in FIG. 3, the receiving member 207 comprises
support cone 223, pin 219, and casing 225. The support cone 223 is
geometrically configured to allow the locking mechanism to
substantially fit within the support cone 223. The pin 219 is
replaceably affixed within the support cone 223 to allow at least
one of the channels 217 of the locking mechanism 203 to engage the
pin 219. The casing 225 includes a geometry that allows the
portable support 103 to support the platform panel 109 (shown in
FIG. 1), stage, or platform system 101. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3,
the casing 225 of the receiving member 207 can include at least one
magnetic panel 227. The magnetic panel 227 includes a plurality of
magnets 239 that are arranged to magnetically attract adjacent
receiving members 207. In one embodiment the magnetic panel 227
includes six magnets 239 having alternating polarities of north and
south. For example, the magnets 239 may be arranged in a
north-south-north arrangement in a first set and a
south-north-south arrangement in a second, adjacent set. The
arrangement of alternating magnetic polarities permits the
simultaneous attraction and alignment along multiple directions
from receiving members 207 having magnets 239 arranged in a
corresponding arrangement.
[0055] The receiving member 207 further includes a pin 219. The pin
219 is of a geometry configured to mate channel 217 of the locking
mechanism 203 and provide rotational positioning of the portable
support 103. Although an embodiment includes a single pin 219,
multiple pins 219 can be used. The pin 219 can be of a cylindrical
geometry, a cuboid geometry, or any substantially similar geometry.
During the initial assembly of the receiving member 207, pin 219
may be inserted into two cavities on opposite sides of the support
cone 223. Preferably, the pin 219 can be removed or replaced
allowing the remaining parts of the receiving member 207 to be used
if the pin 219 becomes damaged. In one preferred embodiment, the
location of the pin 219 in the support cone 223 is as close to the
distal end of the support cone 223 in relation to the support
member 201 as possible. In another embodiment of the present
disclosure, instead of having the pin 219, the receiving member 207
is configured with at least one alternate channel corresponding to
the channel 217 of the alignment member 213.
[0056] The support cone 223 of the receiving member 207 is of a
geometry substantially similar to the tapered portion 229 allowing
the locking mechanism, including the tapered portion 229 and
latching feature to fit inside of the support cone 223 and engage
therewith. In one embodiment, the geometry of the support cone 223
resembles a frusto-conical geometry. The support cone 223 is made
of a material that can withstand insertion of the locking mechanism
203 without the need to expend significant effort to align the
locking mechanism 203 and the support cone 223. The support cone
223 preferably further includes a geometry to receive a tapered
footing structure 104, stairs 115, railing 117 or other structures.
The tapered surfaces of the support cone 223 may be the same or
different. That is, the angle of the tapered surface may be the
same or dissimilar on opposite edges of the support cone 223 (see
e.g., FIG. 5). In the embodiment wherein the tapered surface are of
different angles, the fitting of the components can be verified or
customized to particular, predetermined components to prevent
mis-assembly with insertion of incorrect components. In one
embodiment, the support cone 223 is made of a material that can
withstand the impact of the locking mechanism 203 being repeatedly
and forcibly inserted into the support cone 223. Upon insertion of
the portable support 103, the mating latching feature 203 of the
retention member 211 latches a lip 218 or other surface or feature
formed in the receiving member 207.
[0057] The casing 225 of the receiving member 207 is an external
portion of the receiving member 207, providing attachment to frame
102 and providing structural support for the support cone 223. In
one embodiment, the casing 225 is of a cuboid geometry. However,
the casing 225 could be in the geometry of a cube, other
hexahedron, or any other geometry with a top surface that is flat
and at least one side surface that is flat. Having additional flat
surfaces is preferred because the casing 225 can then be placed
under the corner of a platform system 101 or under any other part
of the platform system 101. A collar 237 is attached to the casing
225 with fasteners or by other methods and provides alignment of
engaging structures and protects the components within and on the
receiving member 207. Further, although not shown, collar 237 may
be fitted with a cap or other structure to conceal the internal
components, such as the support cone 223, of the receiving member
207 in the event that it is not desired to include structure on the
upper side of the receiving member. The configuration of casing 225
allows for easier assembly of the platform system 101 because the
receiving members 207 can be treated as interchangeable and a
plurality of frames 102 having receiving members 207 may be brought
together. Another aspect of an embodiment includes having at least
one magnetic panel 227 on the side surface of the casing 225. The
magnetic panel 227 allows for metal plates to be magnetically
attached to the casing 225. Otherwise, the plates are attached with
adhesives or hardware. In the platform system 101 the metal plates
attached to multiple casings 225 provide a front surface for the
stage, preventing people from walking underneath the platform
system 101 and providing aesthetic benefits. In one embodiment, two
flat side surfaces on the casing have magnetic panels 607. The
arrangement allows for the receiving member 207 to be placed under
the corner of the platform system 101 or any other part of the
platform system 101, allowing for easier assembly of the platform
system 101 because the receiving members 207 can be treated as
interchangeable.
[0058] In one embodiment, the footing structure 104 on the portable
support 103 may include a frusto-conical geometry or similar
geometry. Tapered, frusto-conical, and conical geometry of the
footing structure 104 on the portable support can allow the
portable support 103 to stand without additional support. This
allows additional portable supports 103 to be positioned on a
platform or stage. Once the portable supports 103 are all
positioned and engaged, a second platform or stage may be
positioned and engaged at the distal end of the receiving member
207 of the portable support 103. The second stage or platform forms
the second level for a multilevel platform system 101. The process
may be repeated horizontally and/or vertically to produce a larger
platform or stage on multiple levels. Tapered, frusto-conical, and
conical geometry of the primary support structure 205 distribute
the lateral forces allowing the platform system 101 to maintain
stability, without swaying or bending, even when there are lateral
forces present. In addition, the tapered, frusto-conical, and
conical geometry help prevent misalignment of the portable support
103 by providing an engagement surface, the support cone 223, that
aligns itself and allows people having little or no technical skill
to assemble the multilevel platform systems 101 quickly and easily.
Disassembly is also easily achieved by reversing this process.
[0059] The secondary support structure 107 (see FIGS. 2 and 12) is
attached circumferentially to the support member 201. In an
embodiment, the secondary support structure 107 is positioned at or
near the end of the portable support 103 opposite the receiving
member 207. The secondary support structure 107 can be positioned
anywhere on the support member 201. Positioning the secondary
support structure 107 at or near the end of the portable support
103 opposite the receiving member 207 may provide increased
stability. One embodiment of the secondary support structure 107
includes a hook member 221 (see FIG. 12). The hook member 221
allows for at least one secondary support 105 to be attached to the
portable support 103, allowing increased stability for the platform
system.
[0060] FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the portable support 103. The
locking mechanism 203 comprises the retention device 211, an
optional flange 215, the tapered portion 229, and the alignment
member 213. The alignment member 213 comprises at least one channel
217. The at least one channel 217 can be configured to position the
orientation of the locking mechanism 203 and, therefore, the
portable support 103 (shown in FIG. 1). To position the orientation
of the locking mechanism 203, the channel 217 is lined up with the
pin 219 (not shown in FIG. 4) within the receiving member 207 (not
shown in FIG. 4). In this embodiment, the attachment portion 231 is
within the releasing mechanism 209 inside the support member
201.
[0061] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a portable support
103 in engagement with a receiving member 207. As shown in FIG. 5,
the tapered portion 229 is in engagement with an inner surface 501
of support cone 223. The inner surface 501 of support cone 223
preferably includes an angle configured to receive the tapered
portion 229. The angle of inner surface 501 is configured to
provide a surface that engaged the portable support 103 and resists
lateral movement or flexing. In addition, the embodiment shown in
FIG. 5 includes a footing structure 104 connected to a railing 117.
Although the embodiment shown includes a railing 117, the footing
structure 104 may be attached to stairs 115, or other structures
having a footing structure 104 and an angled inner surface 504 and
may be engaged with an outer surface 503 of support cone 223 of
receiving member 207 (see e.g., FIG. 3). The outer surface 503 is
configured with an angle that provides sufficient engagement and
retention of the footing structure 104 that the railing 117 or
portable support 103 is substantially prevented from twisting or
wrenching out. That is, the engagement of footing structure 104, as
coupling member 301 is sufficient to permit unsupported placement
of portable supports 103 into receiving members 207 having lengths
of 8 feet or greater, while retaining a substantially perpendicular
positioning and resisting tipping or falling over. Such unsupported
placement preferably permits the placement of a plurality of
portable supports 103 prior to providing an additional level of
frames 102 and panels 109, wherein additional levels can be lifted
onto the unsupported portable supports 103 with one or only a few
personnel.
[0062] FIG. 6 shows substantially the same arrangement as shown and
described with respect to FIG. 4. However, in the embodiment shown
in FIG. 6, the tapered portion 229 includes a first taper 601 and a
barrel portion 603. The arrangement of portable support 103 in this
embodiment permits the inclusion of addition devices or supports to
be engaged with the tapered portion 229. For example, a support
having openings corresponding to the barrel portion 603 may be
positioned over the barrel portion 603 and locked into place. Such
supports may be provided over spans or walkthroughs, for example,
where secondary supports 105 may be undesirable.
[0063] FIG. 7 shows a portion of the platform system 101 wherein
the frame 102 is attached to the receiving member 207. The magnetic
panel 227 provides magnets 239 arranged to align and engaged
adjacent frames 102 and magnetic panels 227. As discussed above in
one embodiment, the magnets 239 preferably disposed in a
north-south-north polarity arrangement to provide the alignment. In
addition, as shown the frame 102 is attached to receiving member
207. The attachment may be provided by any suitable attachment
technique, including welding, adhesive, fasteners, interlocking or
any other attachment that provide sufficient retention to support
the frame 102, the panel 109 (removed in FIG. 7, see also FIG. 1)
and any load thereon.
[0064] FIGS. 8 and 9 show alternate embodiments of the frame 102
according to embodiments of the present disclosure. FIGS. 8 and 9
are cross-sectional views of the frame 102 of FIG. 7, taken along
line 8-8. As shown, the frame 102 includes locking cavities 801
into which accessories or other devices may be inserted and locked
into position. Such accessories or devices may include aesthetic
components, theatrical components, structural components, or any
other components useful for attachment to frame 102.
[0065] FIGS. 10 and 11 show additional support structure to attach
to or otherwise engage frame 102. The additional support
corresponds to the structures selected from the group consisting of
a longitudinal casing attachment 501, the latitudinal casing
attachment 503, and any combinations thereof The longitudinal
casing attachment 501 (see e.g., FIG. 10) comprises the casing
attachment panel 505, which is preferably a magnetic panel 227, as
shown and described above in FIG. 3, and the alternative support
slot 507. The latitudinal casing attachment 503 (see e.g., FIG. 11)
comprises the casing attachment panel 505 and the alternative
support slot 507. The casing attachment panel 505 can include
several screws for attaching the casing attachment panel 505 to the
casing 225; however, the casing attachment panel 505 can be
attached to the casing 225 by using the magnetic panels 607, an
adhesive, welding, or any other method of attachment. The support
slots 507 preferably receive frame 102 and are supported thereby.
The width and height of the additional supports can be modified to
fit specific needs of the platform system 101. The longitudinal
casing attachment 501 has a narrower width and a taller height. The
latitudinal casing attachment 503 has a wider width and a shorter
height. The casing attachments 501, 503 further include a panel
support areas 509, which is arranged to receive panel 109, when the
platform system 101 is assembled. In one embodiment of the present
disclosure, the casing 225 works in conjunction with both the
longitudinal casing attachment 501 and the latitudinal casing
attachment 503. The alternative support slot 507 can be of any
geometry configured to the additional support. In one embodiment,
the alternative support slot 507 includes a rectangular opening
permitting a wood plank to be inserted into the alternative support
slot 507 as the additional support; however, the additional support
can be made of any material sufficient to provide the necessary
support.
[0066] The secondary support 105 is attached to the secondary
support structure 107 and another structure. The other structure
could be a fitting on the stage or platform, could be another
secondary support structure 107 on another portable support 103,
could be a fitting on another portable support 103, or could be a
fitting on an additional support. In an embodiment of the
disclosure, the secondary support structures 107 are located at
ninety degrees, circumferentially, on the portable support 103 (see
FIG. 12). In an embodiment of the disclosure (see FIG. 1), the
secondary supports 105 for the internal portable supports 103 on a
platform or stage are attached to four secondary supports 105
radiating from the portable support 103. In an embodiment, there
are two secondary supports 105 on the portable supports 103 located
on the corner of the stage or platform system. In an embodiment,
there are two secondary supports 105 on the portable supports 103
that are on the outside perimeter of the stage or platform. This
configuration of the secondary supports 105 permits stability with
a minimal amount of obstruction. Nonetheless, any or all of the
secondary supports 105 may be removed.
[0067] FIG. 12 shows a secondary support structure 107 according to
an embodiment of the present invention. As shown and described with
respect to FIG. 2, the secondary support structure 107 includes a
plurality of hook portions 221. The hook portions 221 extend from a
secondary support structure attachment portion 901. The secondary
support structure attachment portion 901 includes a geometry that
is suitable for attachment to the portable support 103. The
attachment portion 901 embodiment shown in FIG. 12 includes a pair
of clamp-like structures that are fastened together by fasteners
903. The attachment portion 901 includes an attachment surface 909
that attaches to the portable support 103 (See FIG. 2) upon
sufficient engagement of fasteners 903 to draw the attachment
surfaces 909 into compressive contact with the portable support
103. The attachment portion 901 is not limited to the geometry
shown in FIG. 12, and may include any geometry that permits the
attachment of the secondary support structure 107 to the portable
support 103. The attachment of the secondary support structure 107
to the portable support 103may take place using any suitable
method, including frictional attachment provided by fasteners 903,
adhesive, thermal shrink fit, welding or providing a unitary
portable support 103 having the structure of the secondary support
structure 107 integrally included. Although FIG. 12 shows four hook
portions 221, the secondary support structure 107 may include any
number of hook portions 221 and may include a hook portion 221 for
each support member 107 that is in locking engagement with the
secondary support structure 107. Additionally, the secondary
support structures 107 may be fabricated with a symmetrical
arrangement of hook portions 221, such as the four hook portions
221 shown in FIG. 12, for ease of assembly and alignment of the
portable support 103 when the portable support structure 100 is
assembled. The hook portions 221 include a curved portion 905 that
has a radius of curvature that allows a secondary support connector
1301 of a secondary support 105 to be directed over the hook
portion 221. The curved portion includes an engagement surface 907
that is capable of engaging the secondary support connector 1301
and reacting to forces transmitted through the secondary support
105. When the secondary support connector 1301 is in position and
in engagement with the engagement surface 907, the curved portion
905 locks the secondary support connector 1301 in place and
prevents disengagement, thereby retaining the secondary support 105
in locking engagement.
[0068] FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate two orthogonal views of a
secondary support 105 according to an embodiment of the invention.
FIGS. 13A and 13B show support member 105 having a substantially
cylindrical geometry including two ends that each include secondary
support connectors 1301 in the form of eyelets. The secondary
support 105 may have any suitable geometry that is capable of
transferring force from the frame 102 to the portable supports 103
when the system 101 is assembled (see, for example, FIG. 1). As
discussed above with respect to FIG. 1, the secondary support
connectors 1301 may include any structure that is suitable for
engaging the frame 102 and the secondary support structure 107 on
the portable support 103. The secondary support structure at the
each end of the secondary support 105 may be the same, or the
secondary support connector 1301 connectors may be different from
each other. In addition, secondary support connector 1301 may be
configured in any suitable geometry that includes one end that is
capable of detachably engaging the frame 102 and one end that is
capable of being in locking engagement to the secondary support
structure 107.
[0069] FIG. 14 shows an exploded view of the platform system 101 of
FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 14, the system 101 comprising a plurality
of the frames 102 supported by portable supports 103, a plurality
of the secondary supports 105, and having a plurality of the
platform panels 109 thereon. In addition, the frames 102 each
include four receiving members 207. The portable support 103 in the
single level portion 113 includes secondary supports 105 that
engage the frame 102 and the secondary support structure 107. The
secondary supports 105 provide increased resistance to lateral
forces. The portable supports 103 include tapered portions 229,
which are received by receiving member 207. To release the portable
supports the releasing mechanism 209 is actuated, preferably by
hand, and the portable support 103 is removed from the receiving
member 207. In the multilevel portion 110, the portable supports
103 include footing structures 104 that have an inward taper (see
e.g., FIG. 5), which is received by the lower receiving members
207. While the attachment of the tapered footing structures 104 is
shown and described as a gravity fit, other attachment may be
provided including latches, fasteners or interlocking features of
the mating components. Panels 109 may be attached to each other by
additional methods, if desired to provide additional support and
stability. For example, latches, coffin locks, splines, fasteners
or other devices may be affixed to frame 102 to engage adjacent
frames 102 to provide a stable, locked engagement on the surface
having panels 109.
[0070] FIG. 15 shows cross-sectional view of a portable support 103
according to another embodiment of the present invention. The
portable support in this embodiment includes a tapered portion 229
and a footing structure 104 having a coupling member 301. The
coupling member 301 includes an angled inner surface 504 having an
angle that correspondingly mates with the outer surface 503 of
support cone 223 of a corresponding receiving member 207. The angle
of the outer surface 503 and the inner surface 504 is such that the
portable support 103 may maintain unsupported perpendicular
positioning (i.e., substantially perpendicular to panel 109) (see
e.g., multiple level portion 110 of FIGS. 1 and 14), during
assembly.
[0071] FIG. 16 shows a coupling member 301 as footing structure
104, wherein the coupling member 301 includes an inner surface 504
and attaches to a support member 201. FIG. 17 shows a coupling
member as footing structure according to an alternate embodiment,
wherein the coupling member 301 is configured to attach to railing
117 or may also be configured to attach to stairs 115 (see e.g.,
FIG. 1).
[0072] As shown in FIG. 18, multilevel portion 110 (see e.g., FIG.
14) includes the portable support 103 substantially as shown in
FIG. 15. The tapered portion 229 includes flange 215, a first taper
601 and a second barrel portion 603. The tapered portion 229 is
attached to support member 201. During assembly, as discussed
above, the portable supports 103 are preferably positioned,
unsupported on a level of panels 109, frames 102 and receiving
members 207. By unsupported, it is meant that all of the support is
provided by the engagement of the tapered portion 229 and the
support cone 223. A receiving member 207 of an upper level of
panels 109, frames 102 may be positioned over the tapered portion
229 and is permitted to engage.
[0073] FIG. 19 shows a cross-sectional view of the connection of a
portable support 103 into a receiving member 207 from below and a
second portable support 103' engaging receiving member 207 from
above. In this embodiment, the tapered portion 229 is frictionally
engaged with the receiving member 207 and the coupling member 301
is frictionally engaged with the receiving member 207. While the
above have been shown with multilevel portions 110 having tapered
portions 229 having no latching members 203, the portable supports
103 of the multiple level portions 110 may also have latching
members 203, grooves, features, and interlocking features may be
utilized to further provide engagement between the portable support
103 and receiving member 207.
[0074] Yet another embodiment of the present disclosure includes a
system with the portable support 103 attached as part of a fence
system. The fence system can be comprised of regular fencing
materials, metal sheets, vinyl sheets, plastic sheets, wood panels,
or any other material that is able to be affixed to the flat
portions of the receiving member 207. An embodiment is to attach
metal sheets to the receiving members by using the magnetic panels
227.
[0075] Still another embodiment of the present disclosure includes
a system with the portable support 103 attached as part of a
scaffolding system.
[0076] While the invention has been described with reference to a
preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the
art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be
substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope
of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to
adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the
invention without departing from the essential scope thereof
Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the
particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for
carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include
all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended
claims.
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