CA2846123C - Self-docking rail assembly - Google Patents
Self-docking rail assembly Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2846123C CA2846123C CA2846123A CA2846123A CA2846123C CA 2846123 C CA2846123 C CA 2846123C CA 2846123 A CA2846123 A CA 2846123A CA 2846123 A CA2846123 A CA 2846123A CA 2846123 C CA2846123 C CA 2846123C
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- Prior art keywords
- rail assembly
- rail
- fully
- configuration
- external force
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Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B7/00—Roofs; Roof construction with regard to insulation
- E04B7/16—Roof structures with movable roof parts
- E04B7/166—Roof structures with movable roof parts characterised by a translation movement of the movable roof part, with or without additional movements
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H3/00—Buildings or groups of buildings for public or similar purposes; Institutions, e.g. infirmaries or prisons
- E04H3/10—Buildings or groups of buildings for public or similar purposes; Institutions, e.g. infirmaries or prisons for meetings, entertainments, or sports
Abstract
A rail assembly (10) for linearly displacing a first object (12) relative to a second object (14) and being carryable by the first object (12) includes a rail member (16) for connection with the first object (12), and a guiding mechanism (20) for allowing self-docking thereof with the second object (14). The rail assembly (10), upon at least one external force (F, P) being applied thereon, is displaceable between a stowed configuration (30) in which the rail assembly (10) is in a stowed position relative to the first object (12) and fully carryable thereby, and a fully deployed configuration (36) in which the rail assembly (10) is fully docked onto the second object (14) for fully supporting the first object (12).
Description
SELF-DOCKING RAIL ASSEMBLY
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to rails and is more particularly concerned with a self-docking rail assembly used for linearly displacing a first object originally carrying the rail assembly relative to a second object, as well as with the method of linear displacement of the first object relative to the second object.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is well known in the art of rails to use rail assemblies to displace a first object relative to a second one, either via a single rail or even a telescopic (multi-.. stage) rail. Unfortunately, in such assemblies, the first and second objects can only move relative to one another, along the rail assembly. For example, when the second object is a fixed structure, the first object also becomes fixed because of the link provided by the permanent rail assembly, i.e. the first object cannot move relative to the second object except along the rail assembly.
Furthermore, in such cases, the rail assembly is permanent and always visible, although possibly partially hidden, between the two objects, such that the first and second objects always significantly overlap one another via the rail assembly there between. Accordingly, this is especially the case for a displaceable roof top to significantly overlap the structure underneath carrying .. the rail assembly, such that the roof is generally much larger than the opening it has to cover, thereby increasing significantly the overall weight of the roof to be supported by the structure.
Accordingly, there is a need for an improved self-docking rail assembly and method of use
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to rails and is more particularly concerned with a self-docking rail assembly used for linearly displacing a first object originally carrying the rail assembly relative to a second object, as well as with the method of linear displacement of the first object relative to the second object.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It is well known in the art of rails to use rail assemblies to displace a first object relative to a second one, either via a single rail or even a telescopic (multi-.. stage) rail. Unfortunately, in such assemblies, the first and second objects can only move relative to one another, along the rail assembly. For example, when the second object is a fixed structure, the first object also becomes fixed because of the link provided by the permanent rail assembly, i.e. the first object cannot move relative to the second object except along the rail assembly.
Furthermore, in such cases, the rail assembly is permanent and always visible, although possibly partially hidden, between the two objects, such that the first and second objects always significantly overlap one another via the rail assembly there between. Accordingly, this is especially the case for a displaceable roof top to significantly overlap the structure underneath carrying .. the rail assembly, such that the roof is generally much larger than the opening it has to cover, thereby increasing significantly the overall weight of the roof to be supported by the structure.
Accordingly, there is a need for an improved self-docking rail assembly and method of use
2 SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is therefore a general object of the present invention to provide an improved self-docking rail assembly, and method of use, that solve the above-mentioned disadvantages and drawbacks.
An advantage of the self-docking rail assembly of the present invention is that, in the stowed configuration, it is entirely carried by the a first object, before docking onto a second object that will finally support the rail assembly and the first object supported thereby, such that the first object can be moved independently from the second object without having the rail assembly linking the two when not required.
Another advantage of the self-docking rail assembly of the present invention is that the assembly can be completely hidden when unused.
A further advantage of the self-docking rail assembly of the present invention is that the assembly allows the roof it supports to be of essentially the same size than the opening it has to cover in the closed configuration.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a rail assembly for linearly displacing a first object relative to a second object, said rail assembly being carryable by the first object, said rail assembly comprising a rail member for connection with the first object and including a guiding mechanism for allowing self-docking thereof with the second object; the rail assembly, upon at least one external force being applied thereon, is displaceable between a stowed configuration in which the rail assembly is in a stowed position relative to the first object and fully carryable thereby, and a fully deployed configuration in which the rail assembly is fully docked onto the second object for fully supporting the first object.
In one embodiment, the at least one external force includes a first external force, upon said first external force being applied on said rail member, said rail member is displaceable between the stowed configuration and an intermediate partially deployed configuration in which the rail assembly is partially deployed from the first object and partially self-docked to the second object, with the first
It is therefore a general object of the present invention to provide an improved self-docking rail assembly, and method of use, that solve the above-mentioned disadvantages and drawbacks.
An advantage of the self-docking rail assembly of the present invention is that, in the stowed configuration, it is entirely carried by the a first object, before docking onto a second object that will finally support the rail assembly and the first object supported thereby, such that the first object can be moved independently from the second object without having the rail assembly linking the two when not required.
Another advantage of the self-docking rail assembly of the present invention is that the assembly can be completely hidden when unused.
A further advantage of the self-docking rail assembly of the present invention is that the assembly allows the roof it supports to be of essentially the same size than the opening it has to cover in the closed configuration.
According to an aspect of the present invention there is provided a rail assembly for linearly displacing a first object relative to a second object, said rail assembly being carryable by the first object, said rail assembly comprising a rail member for connection with the first object and including a guiding mechanism for allowing self-docking thereof with the second object; the rail assembly, upon at least one external force being applied thereon, is displaceable between a stowed configuration in which the rail assembly is in a stowed position relative to the first object and fully carryable thereby, and a fully deployed configuration in which the rail assembly is fully docked onto the second object for fully supporting the first object.
In one embodiment, the at least one external force includes a first external force, upon said first external force being applied on said rail member, said rail member is displaceable between the stowed configuration and an intermediate partially deployed configuration in which the rail assembly is partially deployed from the first object and partially self-docked to the second object, with the first
3 object being supported by said rail assembly in a position relative to the second object as in the stowed configuration.
Conveniently, the at least one external force includes a second external force, upon said second external force being applied on the first object, the first object is displaceable between the intermediate partially deployed configuration and an intermediate deployed configuration in which the first object is back onto said rail member in a position relative thereto as in the stowed configuration.
Typically, upon at least the second external force being further applied on the first object, the first object and said rail member are displaceable between the intermediate deployed configuration and the fully deployed configuration in which the rail assembly is fully docked onto the second object for fully supporting the first object.
In one embodiment, the first and second external forces are a respective gravity weight of the first object and said rail member, said guiding mechanism including cables connecting the first object and said rail member to a respective piston weight for allowing the selective displacement thereof relative to the second object, said respective piston weight weighing more than a respective weight of the first object or said rail member.
Conveniently, the weight of the corresponding piston weight of the first object is larger than the sum of the weights of the first object with the weight of the corresponding piston weight of said rail member.
In one embodiment, the guiding mechanism includes a plurality of first rollers mounted on the second object successively engaging a lower flange of said rail member for allowing self-docking thereof with the second object.
Conveniently, the guiding mechanism includes at least one top roller and at least one intermediate roller mounted on the first object and engaging an upper flange and the lower flange of said rail member for displacement of the first object relative to said rail member.
Conveniently, the at least one external force includes a second external force, upon said second external force being applied on the first object, the first object is displaceable between the intermediate partially deployed configuration and an intermediate deployed configuration in which the first object is back onto said rail member in a position relative thereto as in the stowed configuration.
Typically, upon at least the second external force being further applied on the first object, the first object and said rail member are displaceable between the intermediate deployed configuration and the fully deployed configuration in which the rail assembly is fully docked onto the second object for fully supporting the first object.
In one embodiment, the first and second external forces are a respective gravity weight of the first object and said rail member, said guiding mechanism including cables connecting the first object and said rail member to a respective piston weight for allowing the selective displacement thereof relative to the second object, said respective piston weight weighing more than a respective weight of the first object or said rail member.
Conveniently, the weight of the corresponding piston weight of the first object is larger than the sum of the weights of the first object with the weight of the corresponding piston weight of said rail member.
In one embodiment, the guiding mechanism includes a plurality of first rollers mounted on the second object successively engaging a lower flange of said rail member for allowing self-docking thereof with the second object.
Conveniently, the guiding mechanism includes at least one top roller and at least one intermediate roller mounted on the first object and engaging an upper flange and the lower flange of said rail member for displacement of the first object relative to said rail member.
4 In one embodiment, the guiding mechanism allows the first object, when in the fully deployed configuration, to fully clear off a position thereof when in the stowed configuration.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a rail assembly for linearly displacing a first object relative to a second object, said rail assembly being carryable by the first object, said rail assembly comprising:
- a first stage for connection with the first object and movably connecting to a second stage, the second stage including a guiding mechanism for allowing self-docking of the second stage with the second object;
- the rail assembly, upon an external force being applied on the second stage, being displaceable between a stowed first configuration in which the first stage of the rail assembly is in a stowed position relative to the first object and fully carryable thereby and the second stage is fully carried by the first stage, an intermediate partially deployed second configuration in which the second stage is partially docked onto the second object and the first stage remains in the stowed position and fully carried by the first object, and a fully deployed third configuration in which the second stage is fully docked onto the second object and supports the first stage positioned for fully supporting the first object.
Conveniently, upon displacement of the first object relative to the second object along the first stage of the rail assembly when in the fully deployed third configuration up to the first object having caught up the first stage back into the stowed position relative thereto, the rail assembly being displaceable between the fully deployed third configuration and an over-deployed fourth configuration in which the first object and the first stage are further displaced along the second stage.
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a careful reading of the detailed description provided herein, with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the description in association with the following Figures, in which similar references used in different Figures denote similar
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a rail assembly for linearly displacing a first object relative to a second object, said rail assembly being carryable by the first object, said rail assembly comprising:
- a first stage for connection with the first object and movably connecting to a second stage, the second stage including a guiding mechanism for allowing self-docking of the second stage with the second object;
- the rail assembly, upon an external force being applied on the second stage, being displaceable between a stowed first configuration in which the first stage of the rail assembly is in a stowed position relative to the first object and fully carryable thereby and the second stage is fully carried by the first stage, an intermediate partially deployed second configuration in which the second stage is partially docked onto the second object and the first stage remains in the stowed position and fully carried by the first object, and a fully deployed third configuration in which the second stage is fully docked onto the second object and supports the first stage positioned for fully supporting the first object.
Conveniently, upon displacement of the first object relative to the second object along the first stage of the rail assembly when in the fully deployed third configuration up to the first object having caught up the first stage back into the stowed position relative thereto, the rail assembly being displaceable between the fully deployed third configuration and an over-deployed fourth configuration in which the first object and the first stage are further displaced along the second stage.
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from a careful reading of the detailed description provided herein, with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the description in association with the following Figures, in which similar references used in different Figures denote similar
5 components, wherein:
Figure 1 is a schematic top perspective view of a self-docking rail assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, showing the rail assembly with the rail in a stowed first configuration originally carried, underneath thereof, by the displaceable roof top supported by a fixed support structure;
Figure 2 is a schematic side view of the embodiment of Figure 1, with the rail in the stowed first configuration;
Figure 3 is a view similar to Figure 2, showing the rail assembly with the rail in an intermediate partially deployed second configuration after transfer of the roof top weight thereon and partial self-docking to the fixed supporting structure;
Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 2, showing the rail assembly in an intermediate deployed third configuration after deployment of the displaceable roof top back over the rail;
Figure 5 is a view similar to Figure 2, showing the rail assembly with the rail supporting the roof top after further displacement along the fixed supporting structure with the roof top thereover;
Figure 6 is a view similar to Figure 2, showing the rail assembly with the rail supporting the roof top in a fully deployed fourth configuration in complete self-docking to the fixed supporting structure with the roof top thereover;
Figure 7 is a schematic partially broken enlarged side perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1, showing the cable arrangement that allows the displacement of the rail assembly and of the roof top; and Figure 8 is a schematic top plan view of the embodiment of Figure 1, showing the left-hand-side portion of the roof top in the closed position and the right-hand-side portion of the roof top in the open position.
Figure 1 is a schematic top perspective view of a self-docking rail assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, showing the rail assembly with the rail in a stowed first configuration originally carried, underneath thereof, by the displaceable roof top supported by a fixed support structure;
Figure 2 is a schematic side view of the embodiment of Figure 1, with the rail in the stowed first configuration;
Figure 3 is a view similar to Figure 2, showing the rail assembly with the rail in an intermediate partially deployed second configuration after transfer of the roof top weight thereon and partial self-docking to the fixed supporting structure;
Figure 4 is a view similar to Figure 2, showing the rail assembly in an intermediate deployed third configuration after deployment of the displaceable roof top back over the rail;
Figure 5 is a view similar to Figure 2, showing the rail assembly with the rail supporting the roof top after further displacement along the fixed supporting structure with the roof top thereover;
Figure 6 is a view similar to Figure 2, showing the rail assembly with the rail supporting the roof top in a fully deployed fourth configuration in complete self-docking to the fixed supporting structure with the roof top thereover;
Figure 7 is a schematic partially broken enlarged side perspective view of the embodiment of Figure 1, showing the cable arrangement that allows the displacement of the rail assembly and of the roof top; and Figure 8 is a schematic top plan view of the embodiment of Figure 1, showing the left-hand-side portion of the roof top in the closed position and the right-hand-side portion of the roof top in the open position.
6 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
With reference to the annexed drawings, in most of which many parts have voluntarily been omitted for clarity purposes, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be herein described for indicative purpose and by no means as of limitation.
Referring to Figures 1 through 8, there is schematically shown an embodiment of a rail assembly for linearly displacing a first object 12, namely a roof top of a stadium 11 or a portion thereof or the like in the present example, relative to a second object 14, namely a structural supporting pier or the like in the present 10 example. Although the present embodiment shows a one-stage rail assembly, the latter could also be a two-stage rail assembly without departing from the scope of the present invention.
The rail assembly 10 is a one-stage assembly that includes a rail 16 for movable connection with the roof top 12. The rail 16 includes a guiding mechanism 20 for allowing self-docking thereof with the supporting pier 14, in the form of a lower flange 21 in the shape of a lower guiding channel 22 adapted to be successively engaged by a series of supporting rollers, or pair of rollers 24 or the like mounted on the corresponding pier 14. An upper flange in the form of an upper transverse horizontal plate is adapted to engage at least one top roller 26 (or pair thereof) and at least one, preferably three intermediate rollers (or pair thereof) 28, 28' mounted on the roof top 12 for displacement relative thereto.
The rail assembly 10, when unused, is typically kept and secured in a stowed first configuration 30 in which the rail 16 is in a stowed position relative to the roof top 12 and fully carryable thereby, as shown in Figures 1 and 2 with the rail 16, in dotted lines, located underneath (or inside) the roof top 12 in the closed position closing off the corresponding roof opening. In the first configuration 30, the rail 16, and the whole rail assembly 10, is carried by the roof top 12, itself supported or carried by a closed roof support assembly 15 supported, in a slightly raised position, on the four corresponding supporting piers 14, such as pneumatic or hydraulic rams or the like. From the stowed configuration 30, in
With reference to the annexed drawings, in most of which many parts have voluntarily been omitted for clarity purposes, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be herein described for indicative purpose and by no means as of limitation.
Referring to Figures 1 through 8, there is schematically shown an embodiment of a rail assembly for linearly displacing a first object 12, namely a roof top of a stadium 11 or a portion thereof or the like in the present example, relative to a second object 14, namely a structural supporting pier or the like in the present 10 example. Although the present embodiment shows a one-stage rail assembly, the latter could also be a two-stage rail assembly without departing from the scope of the present invention.
The rail assembly 10 is a one-stage assembly that includes a rail 16 for movable connection with the roof top 12. The rail 16 includes a guiding mechanism 20 for allowing self-docking thereof with the supporting pier 14, in the form of a lower flange 21 in the shape of a lower guiding channel 22 adapted to be successively engaged by a series of supporting rollers, or pair of rollers 24 or the like mounted on the corresponding pier 14. An upper flange in the form of an upper transverse horizontal plate is adapted to engage at least one top roller 26 (or pair thereof) and at least one, preferably three intermediate rollers (or pair thereof) 28, 28' mounted on the roof top 12 for displacement relative thereto.
The rail assembly 10, when unused, is typically kept and secured in a stowed first configuration 30 in which the rail 16 is in a stowed position relative to the roof top 12 and fully carryable thereby, as shown in Figures 1 and 2 with the rail 16, in dotted lines, located underneath (or inside) the roof top 12 in the closed position closing off the corresponding roof opening. In the first configuration 30, the rail 16, and the whole rail assembly 10, is carried by the roof top 12, itself supported or carried by a closed roof support assembly 15 supported, in a slightly raised position, on the four corresponding supporting piers 14, such as pneumatic or hydraulic rams or the like. From the stowed configuration 30, in
7 which a first pair of rollers 24' is already engaged into channel 22, upon an external force being applied of the rail 16 and schema ically represented by reference F (which could be a cable link or the like, as roughly described hereinbelow), the rail assembly 10 is displaceable towards an intermediate partially deployed second configuration 32 in which the rail 16 with about half of its length remaining inside, or below, the roof top 12, as shown in the right-hand-side of Figure 3. In this specific embodiment 10, in the intermediate partially deployed second configuration 32, the rail 16 is substantially half way docked on the supporting pier 14 and half portion under the roof top 12 is in partial cantilever position relative thereto. In this position, a stopper (not shown) located at the inner end of the rail 16 comes into abutment contact with the top roller 26 to ensure that the rail 16 remains partially inside the roof top 12.
Then, in this intermediate partially deployed second configuration 32, the roof top 12 is lowered by the closed roof support assembly 15 in a lowered position on the four corresponding supporting piers 14, as illustrated by the downwardly oriented arrow in Figure 3, such that the roof top 12 lays clown onto the rails 16, with the whole rail assembly 1 0 now fully supporting the roof top 12 released from its closed roof support assembly, via the top roller 26 engaging the upper flange 23, and at least one of the intermediate rollers 28' engaging the lower flange 21 (see Figure 7).
Subsequently, with the rail 16 still in the intermediate partially deployed second configuration 32, upon activation of a second force schematically represented by reference P (which could be a cable link or the like as roughly described hereinbelow) onto. the roof top 12, the roof top 12 slides along the rail 16, relative to the whole rail assembly 10, until it reaches substantially the same stowed position relative thereto as in the stowed first configuration 30, to now be in the intermediate deployed third configuration 34, as shown in the right-hand-side of Figure 4.
Then, as shown in the right-hand-side of Figure 5, upon further activation of the second force P, and optionally simultaneously of force F, the roof top 12, along with the rails 16, slides along the rollers 24. The simultaneous deployment of both the roof top 12 with the rails 16 goes on until the roof top 12, in the open
Then, in this intermediate partially deployed second configuration 32, the roof top 12 is lowered by the closed roof support assembly 15 in a lowered position on the four corresponding supporting piers 14, as illustrated by the downwardly oriented arrow in Figure 3, such that the roof top 12 lays clown onto the rails 16, with the whole rail assembly 1 0 now fully supporting the roof top 12 released from its closed roof support assembly, via the top roller 26 engaging the upper flange 23, and at least one of the intermediate rollers 28' engaging the lower flange 21 (see Figure 7).
Subsequently, with the rail 16 still in the intermediate partially deployed second configuration 32, upon activation of a second force schematically represented by reference P (which could be a cable link or the like as roughly described hereinbelow) onto. the roof top 12, the roof top 12 slides along the rail 16, relative to the whole rail assembly 10, until it reaches substantially the same stowed position relative thereto as in the stowed first configuration 30, to now be in the intermediate deployed third configuration 34, as shown in the right-hand-side of Figure 4.
Then, as shown in the right-hand-side of Figure 5, upon further activation of the second force P, and optionally simultaneously of force F, the roof top 12, along with the rails 16, slides along the rollers 24. The simultaneous deployment of both the roof top 12 with the rails 16 goes on until the roof top 12, in the open
8 position, essentially clears off the corresponding roof opening it closes in the stowed first configuration 30, when in the fully deployed fourth configuration shown in the right-hand-side of Figure 6, in which the first pair of rollers 24' is essentially disengaged from the channel 22 of the rail 16.
OPERATION
The method of using the rail assembly 10 of the present invention for linearly displacing the roof top 12 carrying the rail assembly 10 relative the supporting piers 14 is described hereinafter. In the stowed first configuration 30, the rail 16 of the rail assembly 10 is carried by the roof top 12. Upon activation of the force F, the rail 16 is allowed to slide or move along the rollers 24 of the guiding mechanism 20 until it reaches the intermediate partially deployed second configuration 32, in which it abuts to the upper roller 26 of the roof top 12.
Then the roof top 12 is lowered to be now fully supported by the rails 16.
At this point, upon activation of the second force P, the roof top 12 slide along the rails 16 until the rails 16 are back into (or under) the roof top 12, as in the stowed first configuration 30, in the intermediate deployed third configuration 34.
Then, upon further activation of the second force P, the roof top 12, along with the rails 16, further slide along rollers 24, until it reaches the open position in the fully deployed fourth configuration 36.
As shown more specifically in Figures 6, 7 and 8, forces F and P being applied onto the rails 16 and the roof top 12, respectively, are essentially their own respective gravity weight acting thereon because of the small downward slope of the rollers 24 of the guiding mechanism 20 secured onto the supporting piers 14. In the embodiment shown, respective cable(s) 40, 40' or the like hold back the roof top 12 and the rails 16 from moving via a respective piston weight 42, 42', schematically represented inside the respective supporting pier 14, weighing slightly more than the weight of the rails 16 or the roof top12. Upon raising the respective piston weight 42, 42' using a pressurized fluid (not shown) thereunder inside the cylinder housing or the like, the respective cables 40, 40' are released accordingly to allow the roof top 12 or the rails 16 to 'slide down', To ensure that both rails 16 of a same roof top 12 are being displaced
OPERATION
The method of using the rail assembly 10 of the present invention for linearly displacing the roof top 12 carrying the rail assembly 10 relative the supporting piers 14 is described hereinafter. In the stowed first configuration 30, the rail 16 of the rail assembly 10 is carried by the roof top 12. Upon activation of the force F, the rail 16 is allowed to slide or move along the rollers 24 of the guiding mechanism 20 until it reaches the intermediate partially deployed second configuration 32, in which it abuts to the upper roller 26 of the roof top 12.
Then the roof top 12 is lowered to be now fully supported by the rails 16.
At this point, upon activation of the second force P, the roof top 12 slide along the rails 16 until the rails 16 are back into (or under) the roof top 12, as in the stowed first configuration 30, in the intermediate deployed third configuration 34.
Then, upon further activation of the second force P, the roof top 12, along with the rails 16, further slide along rollers 24, until it reaches the open position in the fully deployed fourth configuration 36.
As shown more specifically in Figures 6, 7 and 8, forces F and P being applied onto the rails 16 and the roof top 12, respectively, are essentially their own respective gravity weight acting thereon because of the small downward slope of the rollers 24 of the guiding mechanism 20 secured onto the supporting piers 14. In the embodiment shown, respective cable(s) 40, 40' or the like hold back the roof top 12 and the rails 16 from moving via a respective piston weight 42, 42', schematically represented inside the respective supporting pier 14, weighing slightly more than the weight of the rails 16 or the roof top12. Upon raising the respective piston weight 42, 42' using a pressurized fluid (not shown) thereunder inside the cylinder housing or the like, the respective cables 40, 40' are released accordingly to allow the roof top 12 or the rails 16 to 'slide down', To ensure that both rails 16 of a same roof top 12 are being displaced
9 simultaneously, the cables 40' typically run from the piston weight 42' to a centrally located pulley box 44 (between the two rails /corresponding piers 14) before running to the respective rail 16, and similarly for the cables 40 holding the roof top 12 at the two rail locations. Typically, in such an embodiment, the piston weight 42 of the roof top 12 is heavy enough to additionally provide the force F, and therefore raise the piston weight 42' of the rails 16, for the simultaneous displacement of the roof top 12 and the rails 16 between the intermediate deployed third configuration 34 and the fully deployed fourth configuration 36.
In the case where the supporting structure 11, or building configuration, provides for a surrounding high tower 50 or mast (as in the Olympic Stadium in Montreal, Canada), the roof top 12 (and the rails 16) could be supported in the raised closed position, in the stowed first configuration 30, by support cables 52 extending from the tower 50, as shown in dotted lines in Figures 1 through 6.
To close back the roof top 12 into its closed position, the exact reverse sequence occurs with the second force P and force F acting respectively in the reverse directions. It is noted that the reverse displacement can be started at any time and/or position along the entire sequence. When using piston weights 42, 42', simply exhausting the pressurized fluid from thereunder will allow the corresponding piston weight 42, 42' to falls down under gravity and have the corresponding element 12, 16 moving upward towards the stowed first configuration 30.
Although not specifically disclosed herein, the different latching and unlatching mechanisms used between different components at different positions may vary and are, preferably entirely mechanical, mechanism(s) well known in the art.
Furthermore, all mechanisms include friction reduction components such as bearings, pneumatic and/or hydraulic cushions or the like.
Although the present invention has been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is to be understood that the disclosure has been made by way of example only and that the present invention is not limited to the features of the embodiments described and illustrated herein, but includes all variations and modifications within the scope and spirit of the invention as hereinafter claimed.
In the case where the supporting structure 11, or building configuration, provides for a surrounding high tower 50 or mast (as in the Olympic Stadium in Montreal, Canada), the roof top 12 (and the rails 16) could be supported in the raised closed position, in the stowed first configuration 30, by support cables 52 extending from the tower 50, as shown in dotted lines in Figures 1 through 6.
To close back the roof top 12 into its closed position, the exact reverse sequence occurs with the second force P and force F acting respectively in the reverse directions. It is noted that the reverse displacement can be started at any time and/or position along the entire sequence. When using piston weights 42, 42', simply exhausting the pressurized fluid from thereunder will allow the corresponding piston weight 42, 42' to falls down under gravity and have the corresponding element 12, 16 moving upward towards the stowed first configuration 30.
Although not specifically disclosed herein, the different latching and unlatching mechanisms used between different components at different positions may vary and are, preferably entirely mechanical, mechanism(s) well known in the art.
Furthermore, all mechanisms include friction reduction components such as bearings, pneumatic and/or hydraulic cushions or the like.
Although the present invention has been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is to be understood that the disclosure has been made by way of example only and that the present invention is not limited to the features of the embodiments described and illustrated herein, but includes all variations and modifications within the scope and spirit of the invention as hereinafter claimed.
Claims (9)
1. A rail assembly for linearly displacing a first object relative to a second object, said rail assembly being carryable by the first object, said rail assembly comprising a rail member for connection with the first object and including a guiding mechanism for allowing self-docking thereof with the second object;
the rail assembly, upon at least one external force being applied thereon, is displaceable between a stowed configuration in which the rail assembly is in a stowed position relative to the first object and fully carryable thereby, and a fully deployed configuration in which the rail assembly is fully docked onto the second object for fully supporting the first object.
the rail assembly, upon at least one external force being applied thereon, is displaceable between a stowed configuration in which the rail assembly is in a stowed position relative to the first object and fully carryable thereby, and a fully deployed configuration in which the rail assembly is fully docked onto the second object for fully supporting the first object.
2. A rail assembly according to claim 1, wherein said at least one external force includes a first external force, upon said first external force being applied on said rail member, said rail member is displaceable between the stowed configuration and an intermediate partially deployed configuration in which the rail assembly is partially deployed from the first object and partially self-docked to the second object, with the first object being supported by said rail assembly in a position relative to the second object as in the stowed configuration.
3. A rail assembly according to claim 2, wherein said at least one external force includes a second external force, upon said second external force being applied on the first object, the first object is displaceable between the intermediate partially deployed configuration and an intermediate deployed configuration in which the first object is back onto said rail member in a position relative thereto as in the stowed configuration.
4. A rail assembly according to claim 3, wherein upon at least said second external force being further applied on the first object, the first object and said rail member are displaceable between the intermediate deployed configuration and the fully deployed configuration in which the rail assembly is fully docked onto the second object for fully supporting the first object.
5. A rail assembly according to claim 4, wherein said first and second external forces are a respective gravity weight of the first object and said rail member, said guiding mechanism including cables connecting the first object and said rail member to a respective piston weight for allowing the selective displacement thereof relative to the second object, said respective piston weight weighing more than a respective weight of the first object or said rail member.
6. A rail assembly according to claim 5, wherein the weight of the corresponding piston weight of the first object is larger than the sum of the weights of the first object with the weight of the corresponding piston weight of said rail member.
7. A rail assembly according to claim 1, wherein said guiding mechanism includes a plurality of first rollers mounted on the second object successively engaging a lower flange of said rail member for allowing self-docking thereof with the second object.
8. A rail assembly according to claim 7, wherein said guiding mechanism includes at least one top roller and at least one intermediate roller mounted on the first object and engaging an upper flange and the lower flange of said rail member for displacement of the first object relative to said rail member.
9. A rail assembly according to claim 1, wherein said guiding mechanism allows the first object, when in the fully deployed configuration, to fully clear off a position thereof when in the stowed configuration.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US34457710P | 2010-08-25 | 2010-08-25 | |
| US61/344,577 | 2010-08-25 | ||
| PCT/CA2011/000964 WO2012024781A2 (en) | 2010-08-25 | 2011-08-25 | Self-docking rail assembly |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2846123A1 CA2846123A1 (en) | 2012-03-01 |
| CA2846123C true CA2846123C (en) | 2020-02-11 |
Family
ID=45723844
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2846123A Active CA2846123C (en) | 2010-08-25 | 2011-08-25 | Self-docking rail assembly |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2846123C (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2012024781A2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CA3173991A1 (en) * | 2020-03-04 | 2021-09-10 | Frederic Sauriol | Retractable roof with hinged folding panel structures suspended with cables |
Family Cites Families (9)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AU590631B2 (en) * | 1986-04-08 | 1989-11-09 | Ohbayashi-Gumi Ltd. | Retractable roof structure |
| FR2660346B1 (en) * | 1990-03-29 | 1992-07-03 | Barrailla Louis | COVERING DEVICE FOR SWIMMING POOL, SPORTS ROOM, GYMNASIUM OR SIMILAR CONSTRUCTION WITH OPENING ROOF. |
| JP2586191B2 (en) * | 1990-08-02 | 1997-02-26 | 株式会社大林組 | Retractable roof |
| JP2605486B2 (en) * | 1990-12-20 | 1997-04-30 | 株式会社大林組 | Retractable roof |
| JPH0765376A (en) * | 1993-08-20 | 1995-03-10 | Toppan Printing Co Ltd | Optical information recording medium and information reading method thereof |
| JP2865005B2 (en) * | 1994-12-22 | 1999-03-08 | 株式会社大林組 | Support structure of movable roof for large span roof |
| US6082054A (en) * | 1998-08-27 | 2000-07-04 | Silberman; Cyril J. | Retractable stadium roofs and transport mechanism therefor |
| FR2866379B1 (en) * | 2004-02-13 | 2008-04-18 | Concept Alu | SHELTER FOR SPACE OF LEISURE OR ACTIVITY, IN PARTICULAR FOR COVERING A SWIMMING POOL |
| KR100888741B1 (en) * | 2008-12-08 | 2009-03-17 | 합자회사 우신엔지니어링 | Arcade structure with multi-opening |
-
2011
- 2011-08-25 WO PCT/CA2011/000964 patent/WO2012024781A2/en active Application Filing
- 2011-08-25 CA CA2846123A patent/CA2846123C/en active Active
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2846123A1 (en) | 2012-03-01 |
| WO2012024781A2 (en) | 2012-03-01 |
| WO2012024781A3 (en) | 2012-06-21 |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| EEER | Examination request |
Effective date: 20170823 |