CA1167307A - Collapsible stair rail system - Google Patents
Collapsible stair rail systemInfo
- Publication number
- CA1167307A CA1167307A CA000409298A CA409298A CA1167307A CA 1167307 A CA1167307 A CA 1167307A CA 000409298 A CA000409298 A CA 000409298A CA 409298 A CA409298 A CA 409298A CA 1167307 A CA1167307 A CA 1167307A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- longitudinal
- balusters
- rail system
- baluster
- rail
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/181—Balustrades
- E04F11/1817—Connections therefor
- E04F11/1834—Connections therefor with adjustable angle, e.g. pivotal connections
Abstract
Abstract A collapsible modular stair rail system in-eluding a longitudinally extending top rail having a down-warmly disposed longitudinal channel, a longitudinally extending bottom rail having an upwardly disposed longitu-dial channel, and a plurality of balusters extending in spaced parallel relation between the top and bottom lon-gitudinal rails. The balusters have top ends slidably positioned in the top rail longitudinal channel and bottom ends slidably positioned in the bottom rail longitudinal channel. A plurality of dowels pivotally secure the top and bottom baluster ends within the top and bottom longi-tudinal channels, respectively, for rotatable movement in the plane defined by the top and bottom longitudinal channels such that the rail system is pivotally adjustable to accommodate any selected stairway pitch. A plurality of slats receivable in the bottom longitudinal channel frictionally lock the balusters in a selected angular orientation with respect to the top and bottom lon-gitudinal rails.
Description
.~ 1 1 673~)7 Description COLLAPSIBLE STAIR R~IL SYSTEM
Technical Field This invention relates generally to handrail systems of the type adaptable for stairways, balconies, porches, room dividers and the like, and more particular-ly, to universally adjustable modular handrail systems.
In contemporary architecture, it is quite fas-hionable to install wood railing systems in residential homes and apartments. This architectural technique re-flects a growing public appreciation of the value of wood stairway and handrail systems as a decorative technique in homes of all periods and styles. Custom designed wood rail systems, however, are expensive to produce and re-quire the precision skills of a master carpenter for installation. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a collapsible modular stair rail system which may be efficiently and economically installed by an unskilled person at the job site. Preferably, such a system should incorporate the elegance and beauty of handcrafted hand rail systems in a fine grooved structurally durable con-struction.
Background Art Prior art patents disclose various adjustable rail systems fabricated out of both metal and wood de-signed for assemblage at the job site. In one common sy~tem, standardized component upper and lower rail mem-bers and vertical connecting members are provided fora~semblage and installation at the job site. One system of this type is exemplified by the teaching~ of U.S.
Patent No. 4,138,094 to Thir which includee upper and lower rails having a plurality of opposed cylindrical sockets, and vertical members provided with cylindrical formations receivable within the upper and lower rail 1 ~ 673~7 cylindrical sockets. Thir configures the cylindrical formations and socket openings to permit pivotal adjust-ment of the rail stem. Thir does not, however, teach a locking mechanism to provide a structurally rigid and durable handrail system, and as such the system is not entirely satisfactory. Additionally, difficulties are presented by the complex arrangement of component parts of the system. In the~manufacture of the system, it is critical that the mating cylindrical sockets and cylindri-cal formations be provided with specifications of close-fitting tolerance to assure tight-fitting engagement of the component members. As a result, machining operations in the manufacture of the system are costly and complex.
Finally, the system is not fully collapsible when assem-bled to facilitate economical shipment of the system as amodular unit.
Another arrangement is shown in U.S. Patent No. 3,306,586 to Green wherein adjustability is achieved in a modular rail system including top and bottom rail members and pivotally connected upright members. This system is preferably adapted for iron rail installation (col. 1, lines 55-57) and has not been entirely satisfac-tory for systems fabricated of wood. In particular, Green does not disclose a satisfactory locking mechanism to 2S provide a mechanically strong and rigid structure. Fur-ther, the system has the disadvantage of not being fully collapsible to permit economical shipment.
There are also various other prior art iron rail systems which have proved unsatisfactory for employ-ment in wood rail systems. Such systems are represent byU.S. Patent Nos. 3,258,251, 2,654,579 and 1,416,957.
Accordingly, it is the general purpose of this invention to provide a collapsible modular stair rail system which is pivotally adjustable to accommodate any selected stairway pitch.
An object of the present invention is to pro--` I 167307 vide a collapsible modular stair rail system which, when installed, is positively locked and rigidly positioned at a selected angular orientation with respect to a stairway.
Another object of this invention is to provide a collapsible modular stair rail system which is provided with a structural mechanism for achieving strength and rigidity in a system of uncomplicated construction.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a collapsible modular stair rail system which may be economically transported as an integral unit ready for installation at the job site.
Another object of this invention is to provide a collapsible modular stair rail system which may be readily and quickly assembled by an unskilled person at the job site.
A still further object of this invention is to provide a collapsible modular stair rail system which is of uncomplicated construction and which retains its struc-tural durability and integrity in operation.
Disclosure Of The Invention In the present invention, these purposes, as well as others which will be apparent, are achieved gen-erally by provision of a stair rail syqtem which includes a longitudinally extending top rail having a handrail member and opposing dependent longitudinal side walls configured to provide a downwardly disposed longitudinal channel, a longitudinally extending bottom rail having a generally flat bottom surface and opposing appendent lon-gitudinal side walls configured to provide an upwardly disposed longitudinal channel, and a plurality of balusters extending in spaced parallel relation between the top and bottom longitudinal rails. The balusters have top ends slidably positioned in the top rail longitudinal channel and bottom ends slidably pogitioned in the bottom rail longitudinal channel. The stair rail system also includes means for pivotally securing the top and bottom 11~73~7 baluster ends within the top and bottom longitudinal rail channels, respectively, for rotatable movement in the plane defined by the top and bottom longitudinal channels, such that the rail system is pivotally adjustable to accommodate any selected stairway pitch while maintaining the balusters in a generally vertical orientation with respect to the top and bottom longitudinal rails. A means is also provided for frictionally locking the balusters in a selected angular orientation with respect to the top and bottom longitudinal rails. According to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the pivotally securing means includes a plurality of dowels extending transversely through the top and bottom baluster ends, and journaled in the top and bottom longitudinal rail side walls. In this embodiment the frictional locking means includes a plur-ality of slates receivable in the bottom longitudinal channel in abutting and rictional engagement with the balusters.
Other objects, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent when the detailed des-cription of the preferred embodiment of the invention is considered in con~unction with the drawings, which should be construed in an illustrative and not limiting cense as follows:
Brief De8cri~tion of Drawings FIG. 1 illustrates a collapsible seCtion of a rail 8ystem in accordance With thi8 inVention in which three balusters are ~hown pivoted in an almost horizontal position into the bottom longitudinal channel.
FIG. 2 is a fragmentary perspective view o a stair rail system in accordance with this invention em-ployed in a conventional stairway system.
FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view taken on line 3 - 3 of FIG. 2 showing the configurat~on of the top baluster ends, the means for pivotally securing the top baluster ends within the top longitudinal channel, 1 3 673~7 comprising a plurality of dowels journaled in opposing longitudinal side walls, and the interconnection of the top longitudinal rail and a newel post.
FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3 showing the configuration of the bottom baluster ends, the means for pivotally securing the bottom baluster ends to the bottom longitudinal side walls, the connection of the bottom lon-gitudinal xail and a newel post, the connection of the bottom longitudinal rail to the stairway tread and riser assemblage and the connection of the newel post to the bottom landing of the stairway system.
FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4 showing additional balusters in spaced parallel relation pivotally associated with the bottom longitudinal rail.
FIG. 6 is a transverse sectional view taken on line 6 - 6 of FIG. 5 showing the mea-ns for pivotally securing the balusters in the bottom longitudinal channel and a means for frictionally locking the balusters in proper angular position, comprising a plurality of slats receivable within the bottom longitudinal channel.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a combination of adjourning handrail sections.
FIG. 8 is a longitudinal sectional view of line B - 8 of FIG. 7 showing the balusters locked in a perpen-dicular orientation with respect to the top and bottomlongitudinal rails.
FIG. 9 is a transverse sectional view taken on line 9 - 9 of FIG. 8 showing the relationship between the balusters and the top and bottom longitudinal rails.
Best Mode For Carrying Oùt The Invention Referring now to the drawing, and more particu-larly FIGS. 1 through 6 thereof, a modular collapsible stair rail system according to the present invention is generally designated 10. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the rail system is employed in association with a conventional stairway system generally designated 12, including a tread and riser assembly 14 and stairway landings. Although the stair rail system 10 can be mounted between opposing walls, the system is preferably mounted between vertically extending spaced newel posts 16 fixedly mounted to the stairway landings or tread and riser assembly 14.
The handrail system 10 includes a longitudinal-ly extending top rail 20 having a handrail member 22, end surfaces 24 and opposing dependent longitudinal side walls 26 configured to provide a downwardly disposed longitudi-nal channel 28, and a longitudinally extending bottom rail30 having a generally flat bottom surface 32, end surfaces 34 and opposing appendent longitudinal side walls 36 con-figured to provide~ an upwardly disposed longitudinal chan-nel 38. A plurality of balusters 40 extend in spaced parallel relation between the top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30. The balusters 40 have top ends 42 slida-bly positioned in the top longitudinal channel 28 and bottom ends 44 slidably positioned in the bottom longitu-dinal channel 38. The rail system 10 also includes means for pivotally securing the top and bottom baluster ends 42 and 44 within the top and bottom longitudinal channels 28 and 38, respectively, for rotatable movement in the plane defined by the top and bottom longitudinal channels 28 and 38, Advantageously, this arrangement permits pivotal ad-justment of the rail system 10 to accommodate any selected stairway pitch. Thè rail system includes further means for frictionally locking the balusters 40 in a selected angular orientation with respect to the top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30.
Referring to FIGS. 3, 4 and 6 the top and bottom longitudinal channels 28 and 38 have generally planar base surfaces 28A and 38A and U and inverted U-shaped crossed sections respectively. The top and bottom baluster ends 42 and 44 have side surfaces 46 and front 35 and back surfaces 48. The baluster ends 42 and 44 are of sufficient width so that when the baluster ends are re-I 1 673~7 ceived within the top and bottom longitudinal channels 28 and 38, the baluster side surfaces 46 are frictionally biased against top and bottom lGngitudinal side walls 26 and 36. In the preferred embodiment the top and bottom baluster ends 42 and 44 have a rectangular cross-section, planar front and back surfaces 48, and planar side sur-faces 46. This arrangement facilitates pivotal position-ing of the rail system 10 to a selected angular orienta-tion.
Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the top and bottom baluster ends 42 and 44 have generally flat top and bottom surfaces 50 and 52. The top baluster surfaces 50 are provided with contiguous downwardly angled surfaces 54 and the bottom baluster surfaces 52 are provided with contig-uous upwardly angled surfaces 56. The upwardly and down-wardly angled baluster end surfaces 54 and 56 are oriented in generally opposed diagonal relation. When the top and bottom baluster end surfaces 50 and 52 are positioned substantially adjacent to the top and bottom longitudinal base surfaces 28A and 38A, the balusters 40 may be pivoted through an arc of approximately 90. Advantageously, this arrangement causes the balusters 40 to lock in a position perpendicular to the top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30 when the flat baluster end surfaces 50 and 52 are positioned in parallel alignment with top and bottom lon-gitudinal channel base surfaces 28A and 38A tsee FIG. 8).
When the downwardly and upwardly angled baluster end sur-faces 54 and 56 pass into the top and bottom longitudinal channels 28 and 38, respectively, the balusters 40 are positioned substantially parallel to the top and bottom longitudinal rail~ 20 and 30. Advantageously, this ar-rangement provides a rnodular rail system which is fully collapsible for economic shipment as an integral unit.
Referring to FIGS. 3, 4 and 9, the baluster securing means includes a plurality of spaced dowels 60 extending transversely through the top and bottom baluster ends 42 and 44 and journaled in the opposing top and the opposing bottom longitudinal rail side walls 26 and 36 to permit pivotal movement of the balusters 40 with respect to the top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30. As best illustrated in FIG. 9, a pair of dowels 60 are posi -tioned in parallel rela~ion in each of the balusters 40, one in each of the top baluster ends 42, and one in each of the bottom baluster ends 44. The dowels 60 are pre ferably fabricated of metal. In the manufacture of the rail system 10, the dowels 60 are press fitted through the top and bottom longitudinal side walls 26 and 36. The dowels 60 preferably extend through only one of the top and one of the bottom longitudinal rail side walls 26 and 36, in order to provide for a tight-fitting journaling of the dowels 60 in the opposing longitudinal rail side walls. In wood systems, top and bottom longitudinal side wall openings 27 and 37, caused in driving the dowels 60 through the longitudinal side walls 26 and 36, are filled with any of the conventional plastic wood compounds well-20 known in the art.
A frictional locking means in accordance withthis invention is illustrated in FIGS. 2, 6 and 9. The frictional locking means includes a plurality of slats 70, preferably fabricated of wood receivable within the bottom longitudinal channel 38. In the preferred embodiment the bottom longitudinal channel 38 i~ provided with opposed longitudinal 510ts 39 for receiving the longitudinal slats 70. The longitudinal slots 39 define a space of slightly greater tran~verse dimension than the width of the slats 70 to facilitate seating of the slats 70 within the longi-tudinal slots 39. The sla~s 70 include opposing longitu-dinal ends 72 receivable within the longitudinal slots 39 and opposing end surfaces 74 for abuttingly engaging the balusters 40. During installation of the rail system the slats 70 are angularly positioned such that one of the longitudinal ends 72 is positioned in one of the longitu-dinal slots 39. A downward force is then appliea topivotally seat the slats 70 in the longitudinal slots 39 thereby positively locking the slats 70 in the longitu-dinal slots 39, thereby positively locking the slats 70 within the longitudinal slots 39, in abuttin~ and fric-tional engagement with the balusters 40. In the preferred embodiment the longitudinal slat ends 72 have rounded edge surfàces to facilitate pivotal positioning of the slats 70 within the bottom longitudinal channel 38. It is also preferable to miter the slat end surfaces 74 to the angu-lar contour of the front and back bottom baluster end surfaces 48 to provide close fitting engagement of the bottom baluster end front and back surfaces 48 and the slat end surfaces 74.
F~eferring to FIGS. 4 and 8, the newel posts 16 include planar base surfaces 80. An anchoring means is provided for fixedly mounting the newel posts 16 on the stairway landings. The anchoring means includes a post plate 90, preferably fabricated of metal, having a plur-ality of transverse openings 92, and a plurality of lag screws 94 extending through the openings 92 to anchor the post plate 90 to the newel base surfaces 80 and stairway landings. It should be appreciated that the newel posts 16 may also be mounted on the stairway tread by conven-tional means, for example, attachment to stairway risersby lag screws.
The rail syetem 10 is fixedly mounted between newel pocts 16. The newel posts preferably include planar mounting surfaces 17 for engagement with longitudinal rail end surfaces 24 and 34. The top and bottom longitudinal rail end surfaces 24 and 34 are mitered to permit flu8h fitting frictional engagment of the longitudinal rail end surfaces 24 and 34 and newel post mounting surfaces 17.
The top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30 are cut lengthwise, define a transverse plane orientated in par-allel relation to the balusters 40 and newel posts 16. A
~ 1 673~7 means is provided for mounting top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30 to the newel posts 16 which includes a connector 100, preferably fabricated of metal, having a base member 102 for engaging the top and bottom, longitudinal channel base surfaces 28A and 38A and a contiguous pivotal member 104 for engaging the newel post mounting surfaces 17. A plurality of lag screws 105 extend transversely through the base and pivotal members 102 and 104 to securely fix newel posts 16 and the top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30 in frictional abutting engagement.
In FIGS. 5 and 6 there is illustrasted means for securing the bottom longitudinal rail 30 to the stair-way tread and riser assembly 14. The securing means includes a plurality of spaced metal nails 110 positioned at spaced intervals through the base surface 38A of the bottom longitudinal rail 30 diagnally into the tread and riser assembly 14. The bottom longitudinal rail 30 is secured to the stairway landing or other floor surfaces in the same manner (see FIGS. 7 and 8).
It will be appreciated, therefore, that the present invention provides a collapsible modular stair rail system 10, which overcomes the difficulties of prior art systems and which achieves the objects stated hereto-fore.
In particular, the present invention provides amodular stair rail system 10, which is pivotally adjust-able to accommGdate any selected stairway pitch. Advan-tageously, the stair rail system 10 provides a locking means for achieving strength and rigidity in a system of uncomplicated construction. The rail system 10 may be economically transported as an integral unit ready for quick assemblage by an unskilled person at the job site.
The system has the further advantage of permitting econ-omical manufacture by reason of its uncomplicated con-struction.
1 ~ ~73~)~
It should be appreciated that various modifica-tions are possible in light of the above disclosure. For example, the stair rail system 10 may be constructed of a wide variety of different newel, rail and baluster styles to accommodate homes of different periods and decorative modes. The stair rail system 10 may also be employed in both closed and open stairway systems. And although a wood rail system is preferred, the rail system may be similarly fabricated of metal or other rigid material.
It should be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made in the present invention, without departing from the spirit and scope thereof as described in the specification and defined in the appended claims.
Technical Field This invention relates generally to handrail systems of the type adaptable for stairways, balconies, porches, room dividers and the like, and more particular-ly, to universally adjustable modular handrail systems.
In contemporary architecture, it is quite fas-hionable to install wood railing systems in residential homes and apartments. This architectural technique re-flects a growing public appreciation of the value of wood stairway and handrail systems as a decorative technique in homes of all periods and styles. Custom designed wood rail systems, however, are expensive to produce and re-quire the precision skills of a master carpenter for installation. Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a collapsible modular stair rail system which may be efficiently and economically installed by an unskilled person at the job site. Preferably, such a system should incorporate the elegance and beauty of handcrafted hand rail systems in a fine grooved structurally durable con-struction.
Background Art Prior art patents disclose various adjustable rail systems fabricated out of both metal and wood de-signed for assemblage at the job site. In one common sy~tem, standardized component upper and lower rail mem-bers and vertical connecting members are provided fora~semblage and installation at the job site. One system of this type is exemplified by the teaching~ of U.S.
Patent No. 4,138,094 to Thir which includee upper and lower rails having a plurality of opposed cylindrical sockets, and vertical members provided with cylindrical formations receivable within the upper and lower rail 1 ~ 673~7 cylindrical sockets. Thir configures the cylindrical formations and socket openings to permit pivotal adjust-ment of the rail stem. Thir does not, however, teach a locking mechanism to provide a structurally rigid and durable handrail system, and as such the system is not entirely satisfactory. Additionally, difficulties are presented by the complex arrangement of component parts of the system. In the~manufacture of the system, it is critical that the mating cylindrical sockets and cylindri-cal formations be provided with specifications of close-fitting tolerance to assure tight-fitting engagement of the component members. As a result, machining operations in the manufacture of the system are costly and complex.
Finally, the system is not fully collapsible when assem-bled to facilitate economical shipment of the system as amodular unit.
Another arrangement is shown in U.S. Patent No. 3,306,586 to Green wherein adjustability is achieved in a modular rail system including top and bottom rail members and pivotally connected upright members. This system is preferably adapted for iron rail installation (col. 1, lines 55-57) and has not been entirely satisfac-tory for systems fabricated of wood. In particular, Green does not disclose a satisfactory locking mechanism to 2S provide a mechanically strong and rigid structure. Fur-ther, the system has the disadvantage of not being fully collapsible to permit economical shipment.
There are also various other prior art iron rail systems which have proved unsatisfactory for employ-ment in wood rail systems. Such systems are represent byU.S. Patent Nos. 3,258,251, 2,654,579 and 1,416,957.
Accordingly, it is the general purpose of this invention to provide a collapsible modular stair rail system which is pivotally adjustable to accommodate any selected stairway pitch.
An object of the present invention is to pro--` I 167307 vide a collapsible modular stair rail system which, when installed, is positively locked and rigidly positioned at a selected angular orientation with respect to a stairway.
Another object of this invention is to provide a collapsible modular stair rail system which is provided with a structural mechanism for achieving strength and rigidity in a system of uncomplicated construction.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a collapsible modular stair rail system which may be economically transported as an integral unit ready for installation at the job site.
Another object of this invention is to provide a collapsible modular stair rail system which may be readily and quickly assembled by an unskilled person at the job site.
A still further object of this invention is to provide a collapsible modular stair rail system which is of uncomplicated construction and which retains its struc-tural durability and integrity in operation.
Disclosure Of The Invention In the present invention, these purposes, as well as others which will be apparent, are achieved gen-erally by provision of a stair rail syqtem which includes a longitudinally extending top rail having a handrail member and opposing dependent longitudinal side walls configured to provide a downwardly disposed longitudinal channel, a longitudinally extending bottom rail having a generally flat bottom surface and opposing appendent lon-gitudinal side walls configured to provide an upwardly disposed longitudinal channel, and a plurality of balusters extending in spaced parallel relation between the top and bottom longitudinal rails. The balusters have top ends slidably positioned in the top rail longitudinal channel and bottom ends slidably pogitioned in the bottom rail longitudinal channel. The stair rail system also includes means for pivotally securing the top and bottom 11~73~7 baluster ends within the top and bottom longitudinal rail channels, respectively, for rotatable movement in the plane defined by the top and bottom longitudinal channels, such that the rail system is pivotally adjustable to accommodate any selected stairway pitch while maintaining the balusters in a generally vertical orientation with respect to the top and bottom longitudinal rails. A means is also provided for frictionally locking the balusters in a selected angular orientation with respect to the top and bottom longitudinal rails. According to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the pivotally securing means includes a plurality of dowels extending transversely through the top and bottom baluster ends, and journaled in the top and bottom longitudinal rail side walls. In this embodiment the frictional locking means includes a plur-ality of slates receivable in the bottom longitudinal channel in abutting and rictional engagement with the balusters.
Other objects, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will be apparent when the detailed des-cription of the preferred embodiment of the invention is considered in con~unction with the drawings, which should be construed in an illustrative and not limiting cense as follows:
Brief De8cri~tion of Drawings FIG. 1 illustrates a collapsible seCtion of a rail 8ystem in accordance With thi8 inVention in which three balusters are ~hown pivoted in an almost horizontal position into the bottom longitudinal channel.
FIG. 2 is a fragmentary perspective view o a stair rail system in accordance with this invention em-ployed in a conventional stairway system.
FIG. 3 is a longitudinal sectional view taken on line 3 - 3 of FIG. 2 showing the configurat~on of the top baluster ends, the means for pivotally securing the top baluster ends within the top longitudinal channel, 1 3 673~7 comprising a plurality of dowels journaled in opposing longitudinal side walls, and the interconnection of the top longitudinal rail and a newel post.
FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3 showing the configuration of the bottom baluster ends, the means for pivotally securing the bottom baluster ends to the bottom longitudinal side walls, the connection of the bottom lon-gitudinal xail and a newel post, the connection of the bottom longitudinal rail to the stairway tread and riser assemblage and the connection of the newel post to the bottom landing of the stairway system.
FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4 showing additional balusters in spaced parallel relation pivotally associated with the bottom longitudinal rail.
FIG. 6 is a transverse sectional view taken on line 6 - 6 of FIG. 5 showing the mea-ns for pivotally securing the balusters in the bottom longitudinal channel and a means for frictionally locking the balusters in proper angular position, comprising a plurality of slats receivable within the bottom longitudinal channel.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view illustrating a combination of adjourning handrail sections.
FIG. 8 is a longitudinal sectional view of line B - 8 of FIG. 7 showing the balusters locked in a perpen-dicular orientation with respect to the top and bottomlongitudinal rails.
FIG. 9 is a transverse sectional view taken on line 9 - 9 of FIG. 8 showing the relationship between the balusters and the top and bottom longitudinal rails.
Best Mode For Carrying Oùt The Invention Referring now to the drawing, and more particu-larly FIGS. 1 through 6 thereof, a modular collapsible stair rail system according to the present invention is generally designated 10. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the rail system is employed in association with a conventional stairway system generally designated 12, including a tread and riser assembly 14 and stairway landings. Although the stair rail system 10 can be mounted between opposing walls, the system is preferably mounted between vertically extending spaced newel posts 16 fixedly mounted to the stairway landings or tread and riser assembly 14.
The handrail system 10 includes a longitudinal-ly extending top rail 20 having a handrail member 22, end surfaces 24 and opposing dependent longitudinal side walls 26 configured to provide a downwardly disposed longitudi-nal channel 28, and a longitudinally extending bottom rail30 having a generally flat bottom surface 32, end surfaces 34 and opposing appendent longitudinal side walls 36 con-figured to provide~ an upwardly disposed longitudinal chan-nel 38. A plurality of balusters 40 extend in spaced parallel relation between the top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30. The balusters 40 have top ends 42 slida-bly positioned in the top longitudinal channel 28 and bottom ends 44 slidably positioned in the bottom longitu-dinal channel 38. The rail system 10 also includes means for pivotally securing the top and bottom baluster ends 42 and 44 within the top and bottom longitudinal channels 28 and 38, respectively, for rotatable movement in the plane defined by the top and bottom longitudinal channels 28 and 38, Advantageously, this arrangement permits pivotal ad-justment of the rail system 10 to accommodate any selected stairway pitch. Thè rail system includes further means for frictionally locking the balusters 40 in a selected angular orientation with respect to the top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30.
Referring to FIGS. 3, 4 and 6 the top and bottom longitudinal channels 28 and 38 have generally planar base surfaces 28A and 38A and U and inverted U-shaped crossed sections respectively. The top and bottom baluster ends 42 and 44 have side surfaces 46 and front 35 and back surfaces 48. The baluster ends 42 and 44 are of sufficient width so that when the baluster ends are re-I 1 673~7 ceived within the top and bottom longitudinal channels 28 and 38, the baluster side surfaces 46 are frictionally biased against top and bottom lGngitudinal side walls 26 and 36. In the preferred embodiment the top and bottom baluster ends 42 and 44 have a rectangular cross-section, planar front and back surfaces 48, and planar side sur-faces 46. This arrangement facilitates pivotal position-ing of the rail system 10 to a selected angular orienta-tion.
Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the top and bottom baluster ends 42 and 44 have generally flat top and bottom surfaces 50 and 52. The top baluster surfaces 50 are provided with contiguous downwardly angled surfaces 54 and the bottom baluster surfaces 52 are provided with contig-uous upwardly angled surfaces 56. The upwardly and down-wardly angled baluster end surfaces 54 and 56 are oriented in generally opposed diagonal relation. When the top and bottom baluster end surfaces 50 and 52 are positioned substantially adjacent to the top and bottom longitudinal base surfaces 28A and 38A, the balusters 40 may be pivoted through an arc of approximately 90. Advantageously, this arrangement causes the balusters 40 to lock in a position perpendicular to the top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30 when the flat baluster end surfaces 50 and 52 are positioned in parallel alignment with top and bottom lon-gitudinal channel base surfaces 28A and 38A tsee FIG. 8).
When the downwardly and upwardly angled baluster end sur-faces 54 and 56 pass into the top and bottom longitudinal channels 28 and 38, respectively, the balusters 40 are positioned substantially parallel to the top and bottom longitudinal rail~ 20 and 30. Advantageously, this ar-rangement provides a rnodular rail system which is fully collapsible for economic shipment as an integral unit.
Referring to FIGS. 3, 4 and 9, the baluster securing means includes a plurality of spaced dowels 60 extending transversely through the top and bottom baluster ends 42 and 44 and journaled in the opposing top and the opposing bottom longitudinal rail side walls 26 and 36 to permit pivotal movement of the balusters 40 with respect to the top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30. As best illustrated in FIG. 9, a pair of dowels 60 are posi -tioned in parallel rela~ion in each of the balusters 40, one in each of the top baluster ends 42, and one in each of the bottom baluster ends 44. The dowels 60 are pre ferably fabricated of metal. In the manufacture of the rail system 10, the dowels 60 are press fitted through the top and bottom longitudinal side walls 26 and 36. The dowels 60 preferably extend through only one of the top and one of the bottom longitudinal rail side walls 26 and 36, in order to provide for a tight-fitting journaling of the dowels 60 in the opposing longitudinal rail side walls. In wood systems, top and bottom longitudinal side wall openings 27 and 37, caused in driving the dowels 60 through the longitudinal side walls 26 and 36, are filled with any of the conventional plastic wood compounds well-20 known in the art.
A frictional locking means in accordance withthis invention is illustrated in FIGS. 2, 6 and 9. The frictional locking means includes a plurality of slats 70, preferably fabricated of wood receivable within the bottom longitudinal channel 38. In the preferred embodiment the bottom longitudinal channel 38 i~ provided with opposed longitudinal 510ts 39 for receiving the longitudinal slats 70. The longitudinal slots 39 define a space of slightly greater tran~verse dimension than the width of the slats 70 to facilitate seating of the slats 70 within the longi-tudinal slots 39. The sla~s 70 include opposing longitu-dinal ends 72 receivable within the longitudinal slots 39 and opposing end surfaces 74 for abuttingly engaging the balusters 40. During installation of the rail system the slats 70 are angularly positioned such that one of the longitudinal ends 72 is positioned in one of the longitu-dinal slots 39. A downward force is then appliea topivotally seat the slats 70 in the longitudinal slots 39 thereby positively locking the slats 70 in the longitu-dinal slots 39, thereby positively locking the slats 70 within the longitudinal slots 39, in abuttin~ and fric-tional engagement with the balusters 40. In the preferred embodiment the longitudinal slat ends 72 have rounded edge surfàces to facilitate pivotal positioning of the slats 70 within the bottom longitudinal channel 38. It is also preferable to miter the slat end surfaces 74 to the angu-lar contour of the front and back bottom baluster end surfaces 48 to provide close fitting engagement of the bottom baluster end front and back surfaces 48 and the slat end surfaces 74.
F~eferring to FIGS. 4 and 8, the newel posts 16 include planar base surfaces 80. An anchoring means is provided for fixedly mounting the newel posts 16 on the stairway landings. The anchoring means includes a post plate 90, preferably fabricated of metal, having a plur-ality of transverse openings 92, and a plurality of lag screws 94 extending through the openings 92 to anchor the post plate 90 to the newel base surfaces 80 and stairway landings. It should be appreciated that the newel posts 16 may also be mounted on the stairway tread by conven-tional means, for example, attachment to stairway risersby lag screws.
The rail syetem 10 is fixedly mounted between newel pocts 16. The newel posts preferably include planar mounting surfaces 17 for engagement with longitudinal rail end surfaces 24 and 34. The top and bottom longitudinal rail end surfaces 24 and 34 are mitered to permit flu8h fitting frictional engagment of the longitudinal rail end surfaces 24 and 34 and newel post mounting surfaces 17.
The top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30 are cut lengthwise, define a transverse plane orientated in par-allel relation to the balusters 40 and newel posts 16. A
~ 1 673~7 means is provided for mounting top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30 to the newel posts 16 which includes a connector 100, preferably fabricated of metal, having a base member 102 for engaging the top and bottom, longitudinal channel base surfaces 28A and 38A and a contiguous pivotal member 104 for engaging the newel post mounting surfaces 17. A plurality of lag screws 105 extend transversely through the base and pivotal members 102 and 104 to securely fix newel posts 16 and the top and bottom longitudinal rails 20 and 30 in frictional abutting engagement.
In FIGS. 5 and 6 there is illustrasted means for securing the bottom longitudinal rail 30 to the stair-way tread and riser assembly 14. The securing means includes a plurality of spaced metal nails 110 positioned at spaced intervals through the base surface 38A of the bottom longitudinal rail 30 diagnally into the tread and riser assembly 14. The bottom longitudinal rail 30 is secured to the stairway landing or other floor surfaces in the same manner (see FIGS. 7 and 8).
It will be appreciated, therefore, that the present invention provides a collapsible modular stair rail system 10, which overcomes the difficulties of prior art systems and which achieves the objects stated hereto-fore.
In particular, the present invention provides amodular stair rail system 10, which is pivotally adjust-able to accommGdate any selected stairway pitch. Advan-tageously, the stair rail system 10 provides a locking means for achieving strength and rigidity in a system of uncomplicated construction. The rail system 10 may be economically transported as an integral unit ready for quick assemblage by an unskilled person at the job site.
The system has the further advantage of permitting econ-omical manufacture by reason of its uncomplicated con-struction.
1 ~ ~73~)~
It should be appreciated that various modifica-tions are possible in light of the above disclosure. For example, the stair rail system 10 may be constructed of a wide variety of different newel, rail and baluster styles to accommodate homes of different periods and decorative modes. The stair rail system 10 may also be employed in both closed and open stairway systems. And although a wood rail system is preferred, the rail system may be similarly fabricated of metal or other rigid material.
It should be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made in the present invention, without departing from the spirit and scope thereof as described in the specification and defined in the appended claims.
Claims (25)
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A collapsible modular stair rail system which comprises:
a longitudinally extending top rail in-cluding a handrail member and opposing dependent longi-tudinal side walls configured to provide a downwardly disposed longitudinal channel;
a longitudinally extending bottom rail including a generally flat bottom surface and opposing appendent longitudinal side walls configured to provide an upwardly disposed longitudinal channel;
a plurality of balusters extending in spaced parallel relation between said top and bottom rails, each of said balusters having a top end slidably positioned in said top longitudinal channel and a bottom end slidably positioned in said bottom longitudinal chan-nel;
means for pivotally securing said top and bottom baluster ends within said top and bottom longi-tudinal channels, respectively, for rotatable movement in the plane defined by said top and bottom longitudinal channels, such that the stair rail system is pivotally adjustable to accommodate any selected pitch while main-taining said balusters in a generally vertical orientation with respect to said top and bottom longitudinal rails:
and means for frictionally locking said balus-ters in a selected angular orientation with respect to said top and bottom longitudinal rails.
a longitudinally extending top rail in-cluding a handrail member and opposing dependent longi-tudinal side walls configured to provide a downwardly disposed longitudinal channel;
a longitudinally extending bottom rail including a generally flat bottom surface and opposing appendent longitudinal side walls configured to provide an upwardly disposed longitudinal channel;
a plurality of balusters extending in spaced parallel relation between said top and bottom rails, each of said balusters having a top end slidably positioned in said top longitudinal channel and a bottom end slidably positioned in said bottom longitudinal chan-nel;
means for pivotally securing said top and bottom baluster ends within said top and bottom longi-tudinal channels, respectively, for rotatable movement in the plane defined by said top and bottom longitudinal channels, such that the stair rail system is pivotally adjustable to accommodate any selected pitch while main-taining said balusters in a generally vertical orientation with respect to said top and bottom longitudinal rails:
and means for frictionally locking said balus-ters in a selected angular orientation with respect to said top and bottom longitudinal rails.
2. The stair rail system of claim 1 wherein, said top and bottom longitudinal channels have generally planar base surfaces and and inverted U-shaped cross-sections, respectively, and wherein said top and bottom baluster ends have side, front and back surfaces, said baluster ends being receivable within said longitudinal channels, said top and bottom ends being of sufficient width, so that when said baluster ends are received within said longitudinal channels, said baluster side surfaces are frictionally biased against said longitudinal channel side walls, thereby facilitating pivotal positioning of the rail system to any selected angular orientation.
3. The stair rail system of claim 2 wherein said top and bottom baluster ends have generally flat top and bottom surfaces, said top surfaces each having a con-tiguous downwardly angled surface, and said bottom sur-faces each having a contiguous upwardly angled surface, said upwardly and downwardly angled surfaces being in opposed diagonal relation to permit said balusters to pivot through an arc of approximately 90° when said baluster top and bottom end surfaces are positioned sub-stantially adjacent said base surfaces of said U and inverted U-shaped longitudinal channels, said balusters being locked in a position perpendicular to said top and bottom longitudinal rails when said flat baluster end surfaces are positioned in parallel alignment with said longitudinal rail base surfaces, and said balusters being positioned substantially parallel to said top and bottom longitudinal rails when said downwardly and upwardly angled baluster end surfaces pass into said bottom and top longitudinal channels respectively.
4. The stair rail system of claim 3 wherein said baluster securing means compromises a plurality of spaced dowels extending transversely through said top and bottom longitudinal channel side walls and said top and bottom baluster ends to permit pivotable movement of said balusters with respect to said top and bottom longitudinal rails.
5. The stair rail system of claim 3 wherein said baluster securing means comprises a pair of dowels positioned in each of said balusters to permit pivotable movement of said balusters with respect to said top and bottom longitudinal rails, a first dowel of said pair extending transversely through one of said top longitu-dinal channel side walls, through said top ends of each of said balusters, and a second dowel of said pair extending transversely through one of said bottom-longitudinal chan-nel side walls, through said bottom ends of each of said balusters, said dowels being journaled in said opposing top and bottom longitudinal channel side walls respective-ly .
6. The stair rail system of claim 5 wherein said bottom rail longitudinal channel side walls further include opposed longitudinal slots, and wherein said fric-tional locking means includes a plurality of slats receiv-able in said longitudinal slots in abutting and frictional engagement with said balusters, whereby pivotal movement of said balusters may be restricted and the rail system locked in a selected angular orientation.
7. The stair rail system of claim 6 wherein said slats have opposing longitudinal ends receivable within said longitudinal rail slots and opposing end sur-faces for abuttingly engaging said front and back baluster surfaces.
8. The stair rail system of claim 7 wherein said longitudinal ends have rounded edge surfaces so that when said longitudinal ends are angularly positioned be-tween said longitudinal channel side walls, and a downward force is applied thereto said slats are pivotably seated, and positively locked within said longitudinal rail slots.
9. The stair rail system of claim 8 wherein said end surfaces are mitered to the contour and the angular slope of said front and back surfaces of said bottom baluster ends to frictionally lock said slats in abutting engagement with said balusters.
10. The stair rail system of claim g wherein said longitudinal rail slots define a space of slightly greater transverse dimension than the width of said slats to facilitate pivotal seating of said slats within said longitudinal slots.
11. The stair rail system of claim 10 wherein said top and bottom longitudinal rails and said balusters are fabricated out of wood, and wherein said dowels are fabricated of metal.
12. The stair rail system of claim 11 wherein said slats are fabricated out of wood.
13. In a stairway system including a tread and riser assembly and connecting landings, a collapsible modular stair rail system which comprises:
a pair of vertically extending newel posts:
longitudinally extending top and bottom rails mounted in spaced parallel relation between said newel posts;
said top longitudinal rail including a handrail member and opposing dependent longitudinal side-wall configured to provide a downwardly disposed longitu-dinal channel;
said bottom longitudinal rail including a generally flat bottom surface and opposing appendent lon-gitudinal side walls configured to provide an upwardly disposed longitudinal channel:
means for fixedly mounting said top and bottom longitudinal rails to said newel posts:
a plurality of balusters extending in spaced parallel relation between said top and bottom lon-gitudinal rails, each of said balusters having a top end slidably positioned in said top rail longitudinal channel and a bottom end slidably positioned in said bottom rail longitudinal channel;
means for pivotally securing said top and bottom baluster ends within said top and bottom longi-tudinal channels, respectively, for rotatable movement in the plane defined by said top and bottom longitudinal channels, such that the Stair rail system is pivotably adjustable to accommodate any selected stairway pitch while maintaining said balusters in a generally vertical orientation with respect to said top and bottom longitudi-nal rails; and means for frictionally locking said balus-ters in a selected angular orientation with respect to said top and bottom longitudinal rails.
a pair of vertically extending newel posts:
longitudinally extending top and bottom rails mounted in spaced parallel relation between said newel posts;
said top longitudinal rail including a handrail member and opposing dependent longitudinal side-wall configured to provide a downwardly disposed longitu-dinal channel;
said bottom longitudinal rail including a generally flat bottom surface and opposing appendent lon-gitudinal side walls configured to provide an upwardly disposed longitudinal channel:
means for fixedly mounting said top and bottom longitudinal rails to said newel posts:
a plurality of balusters extending in spaced parallel relation between said top and bottom lon-gitudinal rails, each of said balusters having a top end slidably positioned in said top rail longitudinal channel and a bottom end slidably positioned in said bottom rail longitudinal channel;
means for pivotally securing said top and bottom baluster ends within said top and bottom longi-tudinal channels, respectively, for rotatable movement in the plane defined by said top and bottom longitudinal channels, such that the Stair rail system is pivotably adjustable to accommodate any selected stairway pitch while maintaining said balusters in a generally vertical orientation with respect to said top and bottom longitudi-nal rails; and means for frictionally locking said balus-ters in a selected angular orientation with respect to said top and bottom longitudinal rails.
14. The stair rail system of claim 13 wherein said top and bottom longitudinal channels have generally planar base surfaces and U and inverted U-shaped cross-sections, respectively, and wherein said top and bottom baluster ends have a rectangular cross-section and planar front, back and side surfaces, said baluster ends being receivable within said longitudinal channels said top and bottom ends being of sufficient width, so that when said baluster ends are received within said longitudinal chan-nels, said baluster side surfaces are frictionally biased against said longitudinal channel side walls, thereby facilitating pivotal positioning of the rail system to any selected angular orientation.
15. The stair rail system of claim 14 wherein said top and bottom baluster ends have generally flat top and bottom surfaces, said top surfaces each having a con-tiguous downwardly angled surface, and said bottom sur-faces, each having a contiguous upwardly angled surface said upwardly and downwardly angled surfces being in op-posed diagonal relation to permit said balusters to pivot through an arc of approximately 90° when said baluster ends are positioned substantially adjacent said base sur-faces of said U and inverted U-shaped longitudinal chan-nels, said balusters being locked in a position perpendi-cular to said top and bottom rails when said flat surfaces of said baluster ends are positioned in parallel alignment with said longitudinal channel base surfaces, and said balusters being positioned substantially parallel to said top and bottom longitudinal rails when said downwardly and upwardly angled surfaces pass into said top and bottom longitudinal channels respectively.
16. The stair rail system of claim 15 wherein said securing means comprises a plurality of spaced dowels extending transversely through said top and bottom longi-tudinal channel side walls and said top and bottom ends of said balusters.
17. The stair rail system of claim 16 wherein said bottom rail longitudinal side walls further include opposed longitudinal slots, and wherein said frictional locking means includes a plurality of slats receivable in said longitudinal slots in abutting and frictional engage-ment with said balusters, whereby pivotal movement of said balusters may be restricted and the rail system locked in a selected angular orientation.
18. The Stair rail system of claim 17 wherein said slats have opposing longitudinal ends receivable within said longitudinal slots, and opposing end surfaces for abuttingly engaging said balusters, said longitudinal ends having rounded edge surfaces to permit said slats to be pivotably seated in said longitudinal rail slots, said end surfaces being mitered to the contour and angular slope of said front and back surfaces of said baluster bottom ends to frictionally lock said slats in abutting engagement with said balusters.
19. The stair rail system of claim 18 wherein said longitudinal rail slots define a space of slightly greater transverse dimension than the width of said slats to facilitate pivotal seating of said slats within said longitudinal slots.
20. The stair rail system of claim 19 wherein said top and bottom rails and said balusters are fabri-cated out of wood, and wherein said dowels are fabricated of metal.
21. The stair rail system of claim 20 wherein said slats are fabricated out of wood.
22. The stair rail system of claim 21 wherein said newel posts have planar base surfaces, further com-prising means for anchoring said newel posts to the stair-way landings, said anchoring means including a post plate having a plurality of openings therein, and a plurality of lag screws extending through said openings to anchor said post plate to said newel base surfaces and the stairway landings.
23. The stair rail system of claim 22 wherein the means for mounting said longitudinal rails to said newel posts comprises a connector having a base member for engaging said top and bottom longitudinal rail base sur-faces, a contiguous pivotal member for engaging said newel posts, and a plurality of lag screws extending through said base member and pivotable member to securely fix said newel posts and longitudinal rails in frictional and abut-ting engagement.
24. The stair rail system of claim 23 further compromising means for securing said bottom longitudinal rail to the stairway tread and riser assembly, said means including a plurality of spaced nails passing at spaced intervals through through said base surface of said bottom longitudinal rail diagonally into the stairway tread and risers.
25. The stair rail system of claim 24 wherein said connector is fabricated out of metal.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US31213181A | 1981-10-16 | 1981-10-16 | |
| US312,131 | 1981-10-16 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1167307A true CA1167307A (en) | 1984-05-15 |
Family
ID=23210018
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000409298A Expired CA1167307A (en) | 1981-10-16 | 1982-08-12 | Collapsible stair rail system |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1167307A (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2109434A (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2147022B (en) * | 1983-09-23 | 1986-07-16 | Burbidge & Son Limited H | Stairway handrail assembly |
| GB8616405D0 (en) * | 1986-07-04 | 1986-08-13 | Northern Joinery Ltd | Balustrades |
| US7178791B1 (en) * | 2002-04-09 | 2007-02-20 | Coffman Stairs, Llc. | Adjustable staircase rail system |
| WO2007059771A1 (en) * | 2005-11-22 | 2007-05-31 | Modum A/S | A railing |
| US11035147B2 (en) * | 2018-01-08 | 2021-06-15 | Fortress Iron, Lp | Raking barrier panel |
-
1982
- 1982-08-12 CA CA000409298A patent/CA1167307A/en not_active Expired
- 1982-09-07 GB GB08225384A patent/GB2109434A/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB2109434A (en) | 1983-06-02 |
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| MKEX | Expiry |