GB2607202A

GB2607202A - Gravity hinge arrangement

Info

Publication number: GB2607202A
Application number: GB2209673.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Lee Porter Nick
Original assignee: Werner UK Sales and Distribution Ltd
Current assignee: Werner UK Sales and Distribution Ltd
Priority date: 2018-10-30
Filing date: 2018-10-30
Publication date: 2022-11-30
Anticipated expiration: 2038-10-30
Also published as: GB2607202B; GB202209673D0

Abstract

A gravity hinge 44 which has a lower hinge sleeve 101, having a top edge 102 and at least part of which is a slanted cam surface 103 or cam follower; and an upper hinge sleeve 111 coaxial with the lower sleeve and having a lower edge 112 comprising the other of a cam follower or slanted cam surface 113. The cam follower is selectively engagable with the cam surface and the hinge may be configured so that rotation of the upper hinge sleeve with respect to the lower hinge sleeve is prevented. The hinge may be locked by rotating the lower hinge sleeve and the hinge may comprise a vertical part of a podium panel 41, on which the sleeves are rotatably mounted. There may be a stabilising panel 45 which rotates on the vertical member and when the stabilising panel is adjacent to the side panel the hinge is locked.

Description

Title: A podium

Description of Invention

The present invention relates to a podium.

Background to the invention

A podium provides a temporary work platform for a user, comprising a deck arranged at a predetermined distance from the ground. The deck may be partially or fully surrounded by a guard rail to provide a safe working environment on the deck. A ladder or steps may be provided to allow access to the deck. One of the guard rails may be opened/removed to allow user access to/from the deck.

A podium may be positioned adjacent a vertical work site (such as a wall), providing a stable platform from which the user can perform tasks at the site, including reaching beyond the envelope of the podium. Alternatively or additionally, podiums allow a user to carry out work at ceiling height or otherwise at a height beyond the reach of a user standing at ground level. Stabilising legs may be provided.

There is a requirement for a podium to be stable and substantially rigid when assembled, whilst being easily transportable and/or stowable. There is also a desire for the assembling and collapsing of the podium to be performed quickly and easily.

Safety regulations place increasing requirements and constraints on the design, function and use of podiums. Specifically, there is a need to ensure that the assembly and collapsing of the podium is safe, controlled and substantially 'fool proof'. There is a need to design-out the possibility of a user assembling, collapsing or using a podium incorrectly, either inadvertently or deliberately.

Increasing regulations demand that podiums must resist a predetermined tipping force when applied horizontally to an upper section of the podium. This requires additional stabilisation, which may increase weight, bulk and complexity.

Summary of the invention

Accordingly, the present invention provides a podium comprising: a back panel having first and second edges; a first side panel pivotably attached to the first edge of the back panel; a second side panel pivotably attached to the second edge of the back panel; a first securing member pivotably attached to one of the first and second side panels, and being releasably securable to the other of the second and first side panels to create a frame of the podium; a ladder unit pivotably retained on the first securing member; and a deck unit pivotably retained on one of the back panel, first side panel, second side panel and first securing member, the deck unit being releasably securable to another of the first side panel, second side panel, first securing member and back panel, to provide a work platform for a user.

Preferably, the back panel is substantially rigid and substantially planar.

Preferably, the first and second side panels are substantially rigid and substantially planar Preferably, the deck unit is pivotably retained on the back panel and is releasably securable to the first securing member arranged opposite to the back panel.

Preferably, at least one of the first and second side panels comprises at least one gate section for protecting a user on the work platform in use.

Preferably, the first side panel comprises a first gate section and the second side panel comprises a second gate section.

Preferably, the gate section(s) is/are biased towards a closed state, substantially perpendicular to the respective first or second side panel(s).

Preferably, the gate section(s) is/are pivotably attached to the respective first or second side panel(s) by at least one gravity hinge.

Preferably, at least one of the first and second side panels further comprises a stabilising panel, pivotably attached to the respective first or second side panel(s).

Preferably, the stabilising panel is pivotably attached to the respective first or second side panel so as to be arrangeable substantially coplanar to the respective first or second side panel.

Preferably, the width of the first and/or second side panels is substantially equal to or less than the width of the back panel.

Preferably, at least one of the back panel, first side panel and second side panel comprise(s) an upper horizontal member, a lower horizontal member and at least one intermediate horizontal member extending between first and second vertical members to comprise a substantially rigid panel.

Preferably, the first securing member is releasably securable to the other of the second and first side panels with a locking hook.

Preferably, the podium further comprises a second securing member, wherein the ladder unit is pivotably retained at a first end to the first securing member and is releasably securable at a second end to the second securing member.

Preferably, the podium further comprises a locking member to releasably secure the podium in a collapsed configuration.

Preferably, the podium further comprises at least one wheel unit.

In another embodiment, there is provided a collapsible podium comprising: a plurality of panels configured to form a frame when assembled; a ladder unit pivotably retained on the frame; and a deck unit pivotably retained on the frame.

Preferably, the podium is configurable between a collapsed configuration and an assembled configuration, wherein: in the collapsed configuration, the first and second side panels are pivoted with respect to the back panel such that the first side panel, second side panel, and back panel are substantially parallel to one another and the back panel is arranged between the first and second side panels, and in the assembled configuration, the first and second side panels are pivoted such that they are substantially perpendicular to the back panel, and arranged substantially opposite and parallel to one another.

In another embodiment, there is provided podium comprising: a back panel having first and second edges; a first side panel pivotably attached to the first edge of the back panel; a second side panel pivotably attached to the second edge of the back panel; the podium being configurable between a collapsed configuration and an assembled configuration, wherein: in the collapsed configuration, the first and second side panels are pivoted with respect to the back panel such that the first side panel, second side panel, and back panel are substantially parallel to one another and the back panel is arranged between the first and second side panels, and in the assembled configuration, the first and second side panels are pivoted such that they are substantially perpendicular to the back panel, and arranged substantially opposite and parallel to one another.

In another embodiment, there is provided a gravity hinge arrangement, comprising: a lower hinge sleeve having a top edge, at least a part of the top edge comprising one of a slanted cam surface or cam follower; and an upper hinge sleeve having a lower edge, the upper hinge sleeve arranged substantially coaxially with the lower hinge sleeve and at least a part of the lower edge comprising the other of a cam follower or slanted cam surface, wherein the cam follower is selectively engagable with the cam surface and the hinge arrangement is configurable between: a locked state in which rotation of the upper hinge sleeve with respect to the lower hinge sleeve is substantially prevented; and a deployed state, in which the upper hinge is rotatable with respect to the lower hinge sleeve by gravity, with the cam follower riding along the cam surface Preferably, the gravity hinge arrangement is configurable between the locked state and deployed state by rotating the lower hinge sleeve.

Preferably, the gravity hinge arrangement further comprises a gate section attached to the upper hinge sleeve.

Preferably, the gravity hinge arrangement further comprises a vertical member, wherein the upper hinge sleeve and the lower hinge sleeve are rotatably mounted on the vertical member.

Preferably, the vertical member is associated with a side panel of a podium.

Preferably, the gravity hinge arrangement further comprises a stabilising panel rotatably secured to the vertical member.

Preferably, the hinge arrangement is configured in a deployed state when the stabilising panel is rotated to be substantially co-planar with the side panel, and in a locked state when the stabilising panel is rotated to be substantially adjacent the side panel.

Preferably, the stabilising panel is secured to a sleeve which is rotatably mounted on the vertical member.

Preferably, the sleeve of the stabilising panel is rotatable with respect to the lower hinge sleeve.

Preferably, the sleeve of the stabilising panel has a top edge, and the lower hinge sleeve further has a lower edge, wherein the top edge and lower edge have at least one tooth, wherein rotation of the sleeve of the stabilising panel urges the teeth into engagement to impart a rotational force on the lower hinge sleeve.

Preferably, the teeth engage one another when the stabilising panel is substantially co-planar with the side panel.

Brief description of the drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the figures in which: Figures 1 to 19 illustrate a podium embodying the present invention transitioning between a collapsed configuration and an assembled configuration; Figures 20 to 24 illustrate a gravity hinge arrangement according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 25 and 26 illustrate another embodiment of a podium.

Detailed description

The skilled person will appreciate that the terms 'back', 'side', 'vertical', 'horizontal', 'left', 'right', 'upper' and lower' are used herein for convenience, to aid the explanation of the features of the podium relative to its intended use.

The terms are not to be seen as limiting, and strict compliance is not necessary.

The present invention provides a podium 1, which generally comprises a frame 2, a ladder unit 10 and a deck unit 20.

The frame 2 comprises a back panel 30, a first side panel 40, a second side panel 50 and a first securing member 60, which collectively form a frame 2. In plan view, the frame 2 may be generally rectangular or square.

The back panel 30 comprises a first vertical member 31a and a second vertical member 31b spaced apart from and substantially parallel to one another. The back panel 30 further comprises an upper horizontal member 32a, a lower horizontal member 32b and at least one intermediate horizontal member 32c extending between first 31a and second 31b vertical members to form a substantially rigid panel 30. The intermediate horizontal member(s) 32c may not necessary be spaced equally between the upper 32a and lower 32b horizontal members. The spacing between the upper 32a and intermediate horizontal member(s) 32c may be equal to a predetermined maximum distance as required by any prevailing regulation(s) or use requirement. In the embodiment shown, the back panel 30 comprises two intermediate horizontal members 32c. The upper one of the two horizontal intermediate members 32c may be referred to as the first intermediate horizontal member 32c. The lower of the two intermediate horizontal members 32c may be referred to as the second intermediate horizontal member 32c.

The upper horizontal member 32a may be arranged at or near an upper end of the first 31a and second vertical 31b members. Likewise, the lower horizontal member 32b may be arranged at or near a lower end of the first 31a and second 31b vertical members. The upper 32a and lower 32b horizontal members may alternatively be arranged away from the respective ends of the first 31a and second 31b vertical members.

In the embodiment illustrated, a wheel unit 33 is provided at the lower end of each of the first 31a and second 31b vertical members of the back panel 30, to allow for the podium 1 to be transported, either between worksites in use, or to/from a storage position or a vehicle. The wheel unit 33 may comprise a castor wheel, preferably a locking castor wheel. Other wheel units 33 are possible, including a ball or roller. The back panel 30 may comprise more or fewer than two wheel units 33.

The first vertical member 31a defines a first edge of the back panel 30 and the 30 second vertical member 31b defines a second edge of the back panel 30.

The first side panel 40 and the second side panel 50 each comprise a vertical member 41, 51, an upper horizontal member 42a, 52a, a lower horizontal member 42b, 52b and at least one intermediate horizontal member 42c, 52c.

The first 40 and second 50 side panels are configured such that the respective vertical member 41,51 of the side panel 40, 50 is spaced from, and parallel to, the corresponding vertical member 31a, 31b of the back panel 30 to which the side panel 40, 50 is pivotably attached. The upper horizontal member 42a, 52a, lower horizontal member 42b, 52b and at least one intermediate horizontal member 42c, 52c of the side panel 40, 50 extend between the vertical member 41, 51 of the side panel 40, 50 and the corresponding vertical member 31a, 31b of the back panel 30.

The ends of the upper 42a, 52a, intermediate 42c, 52c and lower 42b, 52b horizontal members of the first 40 and second 50 side panels are pivotably attached to the corresponding vertical member 31a, 31b of the back panel 30. The pivoting attachment may comprise a sleeve 43, 53 rotatably secured to the vertical member 31a, 31b. The upper 42a, 52a, intermediate 42c, 52c and lower 42b, 52b horizontal members of the side panels 40, 50 may each be secured at one end to a corresponding sleeve 43, 53.

The back panel 30 and first 40 and second 50 side panels share the respective vertical 31a, 31b member at the intersection between the neighbouring panels 40: 30; 30: 50. The pivoting axis corresponds to the longitudinal axis of the vertical member 31a, 31b.

As will be seen from the figures, the respective upper 32a, 42a, 52a, intermediate 32c, 42c, 52c and lower 32b, 42b, 52b horizontal members of the back panel 30, first side panel 40 and second side panel 50 are generally aligned with one another, such that they are at generally the same height from the ground, in use. However, so as to allow the podium 1 to be collapsible, the upper 32a, 42a, 52a, intermediate 32c, 42c, 52c and lower 32b, 42b, 52b horizontal members of one panel 30, 40, 50 are preferably offset from those of the neighbouring panel 30, 40, 50, so as to not to foul against each other when the neighbouring panels 30, 40, 50 are rotated relative to one another. This may be seen in figure 6, in which the upper horizontal member 42a of the first side panel 40 is shown downwardly offset from the upper horizontal member 32a of the back panel 30.

Consequently, the respective neighbouring panels 40: 30; 30: 50 are able to pivot with respect to one another, about the longitudinal axis of the shared vertical member 31a, 31b, substantially over a large range of motion, preferably up to the region of 350-355 degrees i.e. not quite 360 degrees.

At the point of pivotable attachment of the sleeves 43, 53 to the vertical members 31a, 31b, the vertical members 31a, 31b preferably comprise at least one ridge or rib (not shown) which serves to substantially retain the sleeve 43, 53 at a predetermined point on the vertical member 31a, 31b. Preferably, there is a rib/ridge either side of the sleeve 43, 53, to substantially prevent the sleeve 43, 53 from sliding up and down the vertical member 31a, 31b. Preferably, the sleeve 43, 53 is retained for rotational movement with respect to the vertical member 31a, 31b (i.e. only a single rotational degree of freedom).

In the embodiment illustrated, the back panel 30 comprises first 31a and second 31b vertical members to which are rigidly secured upper 32a, intermediate 32c and lower 32b horizontal members. The horizontal members 42a, 42b, 42c, 52a, 52b, 52c of the side panels 40, 50 are then pivotably secured to the vertical members 31a, 31b of the back panel 30. Preferably, the first 31a and second 31b vertical members and the upper 32a, intermediate 32c and lower 32b horizontal members of the back panel 30 are secured to one another such that they are immovable and rigid. The upper 42a, 52a, intermediate 42c, 52c and lower 42b, 52b horizontal members of each of the respective first 40 and second 50 side panels are similarly secured to the respective vertical member 41, 51 of the side panels 40, 50. Although the opposite ends of the upper 42a, 52a, intermediate 42c, 52c and lower 42b, 52b horizontal members of the side panels 40, 50 are not immovably secured to the respective vertical member 31a, 31b of the back panel 30, the arrangement is still such that the side panels 40, 50 are substantially rigid.

This arrangement is not essential. In another embodiment, both the first 40 and second 50 side panels may each comprise first and second vertical members to which are rigidly secured upper, intermediate and lower horizontal members. The back panel may then be comprised only of respective upper, intermediate and lower horizontal members which are pivotably attached at both ends to the vertical members of the corresponding first and second side panels. The ends of the horizontal members of the back panel may thus pivot about the longitudinal axis of the vertical member of the respective first and second side panel (preferably using a sleeve, as described above), rather than the ends of the upper, intermediate and lower horizontal members of the side panels pivoting about the longitudinal axis of the vertical members of the back panel.

The back panel 30, first side panel 40 and/or second side panel 50 is/are substantially rigid and substantially planar. That is to say that the component members of the panels are arranged so as generally to be coplanar.

In an assembled state (figure 19), the first 40 and second 50 side panels are preferably arranged such that they are each substantially perpendicular to the back panel 30. Consequently, the first 40 and second 50 side panels are parallel to and spaced from one another by a distance substantially equal to the width of the back panel 30.

The podium 1 further comprises a first securing member 60 pivotably attached to one of the first 40 and second 50 side panels, and being releasably securable to the other of the second 50 and first 40 side panels to create a frame 2 of the podium 1. In the embodiment shown, the first securing member 60 is pivotably attached at a first end to the vertical member 41 of the first side panel 40. A hook 61 is provided at the opposite end of the first securing member 60 for releasably securing to the vertical member 51 of the second side panel 50. Preferably, the width of the first securing member 60 is substantially equal to the width of the back panel 30. When the first securing member 60 is secured in place between the first 40 and second 50 side panels, neighbouring ones of the back 30 and side panels 40, 50 and securing member 60 are arranged at substantially 90° to one another, such that, in plan view, the frame 2 is square or rectangular in shape.

Further, the podium 1 comprises a ladder unit 10 pivotably retained on the first securing member 60. The ladder unit 10 comprises a pair or stiles 11 and at least one rung 12 arranged between the stiles. In the arrangement shown, there are two rungs 12. More or fewer rungs 12 are possible. At a first, upper, end of each of the stiles 11 is provided a sleeve 13 which is pivotably retained on the first securing member 6. Consequently, the ladder unit 10 may be pivoted about an axis coaxial with the longitudinal axis of the first securing member 60. The ladder unit 10 may be translatable, at least to some extent, along the length of the first securing member 60. In another embodiment, the ladder unit 10 may not be translatable along the first securing member 60. The ladder unit 10 may be retained in place on the first securing member 60 using one or more ribs/ridges, similar to those described above. The sleeves 13 of the ladder unit may be functionally identical to the sleeves 43 as described above.

Preferably, the ladder unit 10 is not removable from the first securing member 60 during normal use. In turn, preferably the first securing member 60 is not removable from the side panel 40 of the podium 1. Consequently, the risk of losing, misplacing or otherwise damaging the ladder unit 10 is reduced. The assembly of the podium 1 will be described later.

The podium 1 further comprises a deck unit 20 pivotably retained on the lower intermediate horizontal member 32c of the back panel. Preferably, the deck unit 20 is not removable from the lower intermediate horizontal member 32c during normal use.

The second intermediate horizontal member 32c of the back panel 30 is preferably tubular, so as to allow the deck unit 20 to pivot about the longitudinal axis of the second intermediate horizontal member 32c. The deck unit 20 may comprise one or more elongate sleeve(s) 22 provided around the second intermediate horizontal member 32c of the back panel, to which the deck unit 20 may then be secured.

The deck unit 20 may comprise a planar work platform 23 and optional associated support frame (not shown). The support frame may comprise four structural members joined together to support the work platform. Further reinforcing ribs, bars or members may be provided to increase the strength and rigidity of the deck unit 20.

The deck unit 20 has opposing first 24 and second 25 edges and opposing third 26 and fourth 27 edges. The distance between the first 24 and second 25 edges is substantially equal to the distance between the back panel 30 and first securing member 60. The distance between the third 26 and fourth 27 edges is substantially equal to the distance between the first 40 and second 50 side panels.

In the embodiment shown, the deck unit 20 is pivotably attached on a first edge 24 to the second intermediate horizontal member 32c of the back panel 30. The second 25, opposing, edge of the deck unit 20 is releasably securable to the first securing member 60. The second edge 25 is provided with two hooks 21 which engage with the first securing member 60.

Preferably, the second intermediate horizontal member 32c of the back panel 30 is at substantially the same height as the first securing member 60 such that, in use, the deck unit 20 is held substantially horizontally, or at least parallel to the surface on which the podium 1 is arranged. Although in the embodiment illustrated the deck unit 20 is only supported on opposing edges 24, 25, in another embodiment, the deck unit 20 may be supported on all four edges 24, 25, 26, 27. For example, further hooks 21 or other projections may be provided on the third 26 and fourth 27 opposing edges of the deck unit 20, to secure to or otherwise rest on the intermediate horizontal members 42c, 52c of the first 40 and second 50 side panels.

With reference to figure 19, when the deck unit 20 is installed (i.e. substantially horizontal), there may be a predetermined distance between the deck unit 20 and the intermediate horizontal member 42c, 52c of the first 40 and second 50 side panels, and a predetermined distance between the intermediate horizontal members 42c, 52c and upper horizontal members 42a, 52a of the first 40 and second 50 side panels. The predetermined distances may be the same. Preferably, the predetermined distance is a maximum distance as set by regulation. The upper horizontal members 32a, 42a, 52a and the intermediate horizontal members 32c, 42c, 52c define a guard rail arrangement around the deck unit 20.

As will be illustrated when describing the method of assembly below, the first securing member 60 is preferably pivotable relative to the first side panel 30 about a vertical rotational axis. Conversely, the deck unit 20 is pivotable about a horizontal axis. Given the differing axes of rotation, and the interaction between the various components of the podium 1, this effectively creates an interlock, wherein when the deck unit 20 is secured in place, removal of the first securing member 60 (i.e. pivoting away from the second side panel 50) is substantially prevented, because the engagement of the hooks 21of the deck unit 20 serve to lock the first securing member 60 in place.

In the embodiment described, the deck unit 20 is pivotably retained on the back panel, and releasably securable to the first securing member, but other arrangements are possible. For example, the deck unit 20 may be pivotably retained on one of the first 40 and second 50 side panels, and releasably securable to at least the other of the second 50 and first 40 side panels.

Each of the first 40 and second 50 side panels further comprises a gate section 71, 72, for protecting the user on the work platform in use. The first 71 and second 72 gate sections effectively define a "saloon door" arrangement.

The first 71 and second 72 gate section may be substantially mirror images of one another. In another embodiment, not shown, there may be only one gate section, rotatably secured to one of the first 40 and second 50 side panels. Where a single gate section is used, the width of the gate section preferably extends substantially between the first 40 and second 50 side panels.

In the arrangement shown, the distal ends of the first 71 and second 72 gate sections are arranged substantially adjacent to one another, so as to prevent the passage of a user therebetween.

Each gate section 71, 72 is preferably biased towards a closed state so as substantially to be perpendicular to the corresponding side panel 40, 50. With reference to the figures, when a user is mounting the podium 1, one or both of the gate sections 71, 72 may be pushed inwardly into the frame 2, so as to allow the passage of a user therethrough. Upon entering the envelope of the frame 2 (i.e. standing on the deck unit), the gate section 71, 72 returns to its closed state. Preferably, the gate sections 71, 72 are hinged so as to only allow relative rotation of the gate section 71, 72 with respect to the side panel 40, 50 between a range of substantially 0° to 90°. Rotation of the gate section 71, 72 beyond 90° is substantially prevented, so as to prevent a user from falling from the podium 1.

The biasing of the at least one gate section 71, 72 may be provided by a spring mechanism. In the embodiment shown, the gate section 71, 72 is/are pivotably attached to the side panel by at least one gravity hinge 44, 54. The gravity hinge 44, 54 may be preferred since the biasing force is great enough to ensure automatic closure of the gate member 71, 72, but not so great as to risk injury to a user if inadvertently released. An embodiment of the gravity hinge 44, 54 will be described in more detail later.

The first 40 and second 50 side panels further each comprise a stabilising panel 45, 55 which is pivotably attached to the side panel 40, 50. For ease of reference, the stabilising panel 45 pivotably attached to the first side panel 40 will be referred to as the first stabilising panel 45; and the stabilising panel 55 secured to the second side panel 50 will be referred to as the second stabilising panel 55. Preferably, the stabilising panels 45, 55 are pivotably attached to the side panels 40, 50 such that they may prescribe a full range of motion, preferably up to the region of 350-355 degrees (i.e. not quite 360 degrees). Consequently, the stabilising panels 45, 55 are arrangeable so as to be substantially coplanar with their respective side panels 40, 50.

The stabilising panel 45, 55 comprises a vertical member 46, 56 and upper 47a, 57a and lower 47b, 57b horizontal members which are secured to the vertical member 46, 56. Preferably, the upper 47a and lower 57a horizontal members are arranged perpendicular to the vertical member 46, 56. The lower end of the vertical member 46 56 of each stabilising panel 45, 55 may comprise a foot 48, 58 for engagement with the ground. At the other end of each of the upper 47a, 57b and lower 47b, 57b horizontal members may be provided a sleeve 49, 59 which is pivotably retained on the vertical member 41, 51 of the respective side panel 40, 50. It will be noted that the lower end of the vertical members 31a, 31b of the back panel 30 and the lower end of the vertical members 46, 56 of the stabilising panels 45, 55 extend further downwards than the vertical member 49, 59 of the side panels 40, 50. This is not essential. In another embodiment, the lower ends of the vertical members 49, 59 of the side panels 40, 50 may also be provided with a foot and/or wheel unit for engagement with the ground. In another embodiment, one or more of the vertical members 31a, 31b, 41, 51, 46, 56 of the podium may comprise a ground anchor.

The width of each stabilising panel 45, 55 is substantially equal to or less than the width of the side panels 40, 50. Accordingly, the stabilising panels 45, 55 may be rotated with respect to the side panels 40, 50 to a point where the stabilising panel 45, 55 is effectively parallel to and adjacent to the side panel 40, 50.

The width of the first 40 and/or second 50 side panels is substantially equal to or less than the width of the back panel 30. A benefit of this arrangement is 15 that the podium 1 may be collapsed and stowed within a small space envelope.

In the embodiment shown, the podium 1 further comprises a second securing member 62, which is pivotably retained at one end on the lower horizontal member 47b of the stabilising panel 45. The other end of the second securing member 62 is releasably securable to the lower horizontal member 57b of the second stabilising panel 55. The opposite arrangement is possible.

Preferably, the first 60 and second 62 securing members are parallel to one another, although horizontally offset from one another.

The lower end of each of the stiles 11 of the ladder unit 10 may be provided with a hook 13 which is engageable with the second securing member 62. The horizontal offset of the first 60 and second 62 securing members is such that the ladder unit 10 is thus arranged at a predetermined angle relative to the horizontal, allowing the easy ascent and descent of a user on the ladder unit between the ground and the deck unit 20.

The gate section 71, 72 comprises upper and lower horizontal gate members which are pivotably secured to the vertical member 41, 51 of the first 40 and second 50 side panels. The gate section 71, 72 further comprises a vertical member extending between the horizontal members.

When assembled, as shown, the podium 1 presents a rigid and stable work platform for a user.

A particular benefit of the pivotable retention of the ladder unit 10 and deck unit 20 on the podium 1 is all of the components of the podium 1 are secured to one another, preventing loss or misplacement of any of the components. With known podiums, the deck unit and/or ladder unit may be entirely removable, which allows for the unit(s) to be misplaced, or the incorrect unit associated with the podium. Moreover, the pivotable retention of the deck unit 20 and/or ladder unit 10 to a particular member of the podium 1 ensures correct assembly each time and the risk of a user incorrectly assembling the podium is reduced.

A feature of the invention is therefore the provision of a collapsible podium comprising a plurality of panels configured to form a frame when assembled, a ladder unit pivotably retained on the frame; and a deck unit pivotably retained on the frame. There are preferably no loose components.

As shown in figure 19, the upper horizontal member 57a of the second stabilising panel 55 is provided with a locking member 58. The locking member 58 is pivotably retained on the upper horizontal member 57a of the second stabilising panel 55. At the other end of the locking member 58 is provided a locking hook. As will be described below, when the podium 1 is in its collapsed configuration, the hook of the locking member 58 is securable to the upper horizontal member 47a of the first stabilising panel 45.

Figure 1 illustrates the podium 1 in its collapsed configuration. In this configuration, the podium preferably has a height of 2050 mm, a width of 890mm and a depth of 350 mm.

In figure 1, the locking member 58 is shown attached to the upper horizontal member 47a of the first stabilising wing 45, preventing the podium 1 from the being released. In figure 2, the locking member 58 is released.

In figure 3, the second side panel 50 is shown as having been rotated about the longitudinal axis of the second vertical member 31b of the back panel 30, such that the second side panel 50 is arranged substantially perpendicular to the plane of the back panel 30.

As shown in figure 4, the biasing of the second gate section 72 of the second side panel 50 causes the second gate section 72 to open. Previously, in the arrangement shown in figure 2, the second gate section 72 was retained between the back panel 30 and the second side panel 50, preventing the second gate section 72 from moving.

Next, as shown in figure 5, the second stabilising panel 55 is swung outwardly to a point where it is substantially coplanar with the second side panel 50. The foot 58 at the base of the vertical member 56 of the second stabilising panel 55 may be engaged with the ground, thereby forming a stable tripod allowing a user to release their support of the podium 1 and allow the podium 1 to be substantially self-supporting.

Next, as shown in figure 6, the first side panel 40 may be swung round, from the rear of the back panel 30 by substantially 90°, until the first side panel 40 is substantially coplanar with the back panel 30.

Next, as shown in figure 7, the first stabilising panel 45 is swung outwardly relative to the first side panel 40. The first stabilising panel 45 may be rotated so as to be substantially perpendicular to the first side panel 40, although this is not essential.

Next, as shown in figure 8, the first side panel 40 and first stabilising panel 45 are brought towards the second side panel 50 and second stabilising panel 55 so as to generally face one another.

Next, as illustrated in figure 9, the ladder unit 10 and second securing member 62 must be configured to aid subsequent assembly.

As shown in figure 10, the second securing member 62 is pivoted away from the first stabilising panel 55.

As shown in figure 11, the ladder unit 10 may be pivoted upwards slightly, and 15 the second securing member 62 translated along the lower horizontal member 47b of the first stabilising wing 45.

Next, as shown in figure 12, the deck unit 20 may be pivoted upwardly, beyond the point at which it is generally horizontal.

As shown in figure 13, the first securing member 60, with the ladder unit 10 rotatably retained thereon, is pivoted such that it is generally arranged between the vertical members 41, 51 of the first 40 and second 50 side panels.

As shown in figure 14, the hook 61 at the distal end of the first securing member 60 is then releasably secured to the vertical member 51 of the second side panel 50, to define the frame 2.

Next, as shown in figure 15, the deck unit 20 is lowered such that the hooks 21 on the second edge 26 of the deck unit 20 engage with the first securing member 60 to provide a stable platform.

With reference to figure 16, the first stabilising panel 45 may then be rotated outwardly to a point where it is substantially coplanar with the first side panel 40. As it does so, the lower end of the ladder unit 10 passes through the gap defined between the upper 47a and lower 47b horizontal members of the first stabilising panel 45.

As shown in figure 17, the ladder unit 10 is preferably pivoted upwardly, at or beyond a horizontal configuration. As shown in figure 18, the second securing member 62 may then be pivoted about the lower horizontal member 47b of the first stabilising panel 45 until the hook at the distal end of the second securing member 62 engages with the lower horizontal member 57b of the second stabilising panel 55. Preferably, the length of the second securing member 62 is less than the distance between the upper 47a and lower 47b horizontal members of the first stabilising panel 45 allowing it to pivot between the positions shown in figures 17 and 18.

Finally, as illustrated in figure 19, the ladder unit 10 may be pivoted downwards until the hooks 13 provided at the lower ends of each of the stiles 20 11 engage with the second securing member 62.

To disassemble the podium 1, to a collapsed state, the reverse arrangement may be followed.

A podium 1 embodying the present invention promotes the correct and efficient assembly of the podium 1, substantially being intuitive for a user and "fool-proof'. A benefit of the locking member 58 is that it serves to retain the components of the podium 1 in a collapsed configuration, reducing or removing the risk of partial inadvertent release of any of the components.

As will be clear from figure 1, in the collapsed configuration, the podium 1 has a small space envelope. This allows for ease of transportation (particularly in vehicles with reduced load space) and for reduced storage requirements. Moreover, a podium 1 embodying the present invention allows for easier transportation between a vehicle and the work site. For example, the podium in its collapsed state may readily be transported through doorways or other reduced access points.

At least one of the first and second vertical members, and/or the upper, lower or intermediate member(s) of any other panels may be any suitable construction or cross-section, including but not limited to tubular, square, oval or solid construction. At least one of the members may comprise a plate or bar. The members may be secured to one another by any suitable means, including but not limited to welding or brazing or any mechanical means such as rivets, bolts, screws, or clamps.

With reference to figures 20 to 24, an embodiment of a gravity hinge arrangement 44 will now be described. The gravity hinge arrangement 44 comprises a lower hinge sleeve 101 having a top edge 102, at least a part of the top edge 102 comprising a cam surface 103. The gravity hinge arrangement 44 further comprises an upper hinge sleeve 111 having a lower edge 112, the upper hinge sleeve 111 arranged substantially coaxially with the lower hinge sleeve 101 and at least a part of the lower edge 102 comprising a corresponding slanted cam surface 103. The cam surfaces 103, 113 are selectively engagable and configurable between: a locked state in which rotation of the upper hinge sleeve 111 with respect to the lower hinge sleeve 101 is substantially prevented; and a deployed state, in which the upper hinge sleeve 111 is rotatable with respect to the lower hinge sleeve 101 by gravity, with the cam surfaces 103, 113 riding on each other. In another embodiment, one of the lower hinge sleeve 101 and upper hinge sleeve 111 may have a cam surface and the other of the lower hinge sleeve 101 and upper hinge sleeve 111 may have a cam follower which is selectively engagable with the cam surface.

The lower hinge sleeve 101 and upper hinge sleeve 111 are preferably rotatable about the vertical member 41. As will be seen from figure 21, in the rotational position of the lower hinge sleeve 101 as shown, the upper hinge sleeve 111 is unable to move. The end of the cam surface 103 abuts against the end of the cam surface 112. It will be appreciated that by rotating the lower hinge sleeve 101, the cam surfaces 103, 113 are free to ride on each other, due to gravity. The gate section 71 will then likewise rotate with the upper hinge sleeve 111 to which it is attached.

The gravity hinge arrangement 44 is therefore configurable between the locked state and deployed state by rotating the lower hinge sleeve 101.

As seen in figure 21, the stabilising panel 45 is rotatably secured to the vertical member 41. The upper horizontal member 47a of the stabilising panel 45 is secured to the vertical member 41 by a sleeve 49.

In the embodiment shown, the hinge arrangement 44 is configured in a deployed state when the stabilising panel 45 is rotated to be substantially coplanar with the first side panel 40, and in a locked state when the stabilising panel 45 is rotated to be substantially adjacent the side panel 40.

Consequently, the hinge arrangement 44 is only deployable and 'active' when the stabilising panel 45 is in place (e.g. co-planar with the side panel 40). This avoids the gate section 71 potentially moving and hitting a user when they are assembling the podium. At the time of manually rotating the stabilising panel with respect to the side panel 40, by grasping the upper horizontal member 47a, a user's head or torso will be in the vicinity of the gate section 71. By configuring the arrangement so that the gravity hinge arrangement 44 may only be operational when the stabilising panel 45 is co-planar with the side panel 40 ensures that a user's head/torso is clear of the gate section 71.

The sleeve 49 of the stabilising panel 45 is rotatable with respect to the lower hinge sleeve 101. As seen in figure 22, the sleeve 49 may be selectively engagable with the lower hinge sleeve 101. Preferably, the top edge of the sleeve 49 of the stabilising panel has at least one tooth 120, and the lower edge of the lower hinge sleeve 101 further has at least one tooth 121. Rotation of the sleeve 49 of the stabilising panel 45 urges the teeth 120, 121 into engagement so that rotation of the sleeve 49 imparts a rotational force on the lower hinge sleeve 101, moving it to a point where the cam surfaces 103, 114 may engage with one another. See figure 23.

The vertical member may comprise a pin 122 which is received in a slot 123 in the lower hinge sleeve 101, to constrain the lower hinge sleeve 101 to rotational movement.

The fully deployed gate section 71 is shown in Figure 24. It will be appreciated that figures 20 to 24 only show a part of a podium. The podium preferably further includes the second side panel 50 and other components as described above.

When stowed, the gate section 71 may be translated upwardly on the vertical member 41. In this configuration, the tooth 121 of the lower hinge sleeve 101 may rest on top of the tooth 120 of the sleeve 49 of the stabilising panel 45.

The top of the gate section 71 is rotatably mounted to the vertical member 41 by a second sleeve 130, which has a cam surface 131. A pin 132 extends from the vertical member 41. When the gate section 71 rotates, the pin 132 may ride on the cam surface 131. When the hinge arrangement 44 is in a locked state, the second sleeve 130 rests on the pin 131. When the stabilising panel 45 is arranged to be co-planar with the side panel 40, the second sleeve 130 is caused to be rotated such that its cam surface 131 then rides on the pin 131.

The gate section 71 is linearly translatable, at least to some extent, on the vertical member 41. When the stabilising panel 45 is arranged to be substantially co-planar with the side panel 40, both the second sleeve 130 and the upper hinge sleeve 111 are caused to translate downwards, such that the cam surface 131 of the second sleeve 130 rides on the pin 131, and the cam surface 113 of the upper hinge sleeve 111 rides on the cam surface 103 of the lower hinge sleeve 101.

Figures 25 and 26 illustrate another embodiment of the podium. The embodiment illustrated includes a third securing member 63. The first 61 and third 63 securing members are both pivotably attached to the vertical member 41 of the first side panel 40. The third securing member 63 is arranged vertically below the first securing member 61. In the embodiment shown in figures 25 and 26, the ladder 10 may comprise a boss 14 protruding outwardly from one stile. When the ladder 10 is stowed within the stabilising panel 45, the hook at the end of the second securing member 62 may engage with the boss 14, as shown in figure 25. This may reduce or prevent the ladder 10 from swinging when the podium is in its stowed configuration, and/or likewise prevent the first securing member 61 from swinging out when stowed. The hook at the end of the third securing member 63 may engage with the second securing member 62 when stowed, as shown in figure 25.

When used in this specification and claims, the terms "comprises" and "comprising" and variations thereof mean that the specified features, steps or integers are included. The terms are not to be interpreted to exclude the presence of other features, steps or components.

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof.

Although certain example embodiments of the invention have been described, the scope of the appended claims is not intended to be limited solely to these embodiments. The claims are to be construed literally, purposively, and/or to encompass equivalents.

Representative Features 27 A podium comprising: a back panel having first and second edges; a first side panel pivotably attached to the first edge of the back panel; a second side panel pivotably attached to the second edge of the back panel; a first securing member pivotably attached to one of the first and second side panels, and being releasably securable to the other of the second and first side panels to create a frame of the podium; a ladder unit pivotably retained on the first securing member; and a deck unit pivotably retained on one of the back panel, first side panel, second side panel and first securing member, the deck unit being releasably securable to another of the first side panel, second side panel, first securing member and back panel, to provide a work platform for a user.

2. A podium according to clause 1, wherein the back panel is substantially rigid and substantially planar.

3. A podium according to any preceding clause, wherein the first and second side panels are substantially rigid and substantially planar.

4. A podium according to any preceding clause, wherein the deck unit is pivotably retained on the back panel and is releasably securable to the first securing member arranged opposite to the back panel.

5. A podium according to any preceding clause, wherein at least one of the first and second side panels comprises at least one gate section for protecting a user on the work platform in use.

6. A podium according to clause 5, wherein the first side panel comprises a first gate section and the second side panel comprises a second gate section.

Representative Features 28 7. A podium according to any of clauses 5 or 6, wherein the gate section(s) is/are biased towards a closed state, substantially perpendicular to the respective first or second side panel(s).

8. A podium according to any of clauses 5 to 7, wherein the gate section(s) is/are pivotably attached to the respective first or second side panel(s) by at least one gravity hinge.

9. A podium according to any preceding clause, wherein at least one of the first and second side panels further comprises a stabilising panel, pivotably attached to the respective first or second side panel(s).

10. A podium according to clause 9, wherein the stabilising panel is pivotably attached to the respective first or second side panel so as to be arrangeable substantially coplanar to the respective first or second side panel.

11. A podium according to any preceding clause, wherein the width of the first and/or second side panels is substantially equal to or less than the width of the back panel.

12. A podium according to any preceding clause, wherein at least one of the back panel, first side panel and second side panel comprise(s) an upper horizontal member, a lower horizontal member and at least one intermediate horizontal member extending between first and second vertical members to comprise a substantially rigid panel.

13. A podium according to any preceding clause, wherein the first securing member is releasably securable to the other of the second and first side panels with a locking hook.

14. A podium according to any preceding clause, further comprising a second securing member, wherein the ladder unit is pivotably retained at a first Representative Features 29 end to the first securing member and is releasably securable at a second end to the second securing member.

15. A podium according to any preceding clause, comprising a locking member to releasably secure the podium in a collapsed configuration.

16. A podium according to any preceding clause, further comprising at least one wheel unit.

17. A collapsible podium comprising: a plurality of panels configured to form a frame when assembled; a ladder unit pivotably retained on the frame; and a deck unit pivotably retained on the frame.

18. A podium according to any preceding clause, configurable between a collapsed configuration and an assembled configuration, wherein: in the collapsed configuration, the first and second side panels are pivoted with respect to the back panel such that the first side panel, second side panel, and back panel are substantially parallel to one another and the back panel is arranged between the first and second side panels, and in the assembled configuration, the first and second side panels are pivoted such that they are substantially perpendicular to the back panel, and arranged substantially opposite and parallel to one another.

19. A podium comprising: a back panel having first and second edges; a first side panel pivotably attached to the first edge of the back panel; a second side panel pivotably attached to the second edge of the back panel; the podium being configurable between a collapsed configuration and an assembled configuration, wherein: Representative Features 30 in the collapsed configuration, the first and second side panels are pivoted with respect to the back panel such that the first side panel, second side panel, and back panel are substantially parallel to one another and the back panel is arranged between the first and second side panels, and in the assembled configuration, the first and second side panels are pivoted such that they are substantially perpendicular to the back panel, and arranged substantially opposite and parallel to one another.

20. A gravity hinge arrangement, comprising: a lower hinge sleeve having a top edge, at least a part of the top edge comprising one of a slanted cam surface or cam follower; and an upper hinge sleeve having a lower edge, the upper hinge sleeve arranged substantially coaxially with the lower hinge sleeve and at least a part of the lower edge comprising the other of a cam follower or slanted cam surface, wherein the cam follower is selectively engagable with the cam surface and the hinge arrangement is configurable between: a locked state in which rotation of the upper hinge sleeve with respect to the lower hinge sleeve is substantially prevented; and a deployed state, in which the upper hinge is rotatable with respect to the lower hinge sleeve by gravity, with the cam follower riding along the cam surface.

21. A gravity hinge arrangement according clause 20, wherein the gravity hinge arrangement is configurable between the locked state and deployed state by rotating the lower hinge sleeve 22. A gravity hinge arrangement according to clause 20, further comprising a vertical member of a side panel of a podium, wherein the upper hinge sleeve and the lower hinge sleeve are rotatably mounted on the vertical member.

23. A gravity hinge arrangement according to clause 22, further comprising a stabilising panel rotatably secured to the vertical member, wherein the hinge Representative Features 31 arrangement is configured in a deployed state when the stabilising panel is rotated to be substantially co-planar with the side panel, and in a locked state when the stabilising panel is rotated to be substantially adjacent the side panel.

24. A gravity hinge arrangement according to clause 23, wherein the stabilising panel is secured to a sleeve which is rotatably mounted on the vertical member, wherein the sleeve of the stabilising panel is rotatable with respect to the lower hinge sleeve.

25. A gravity hinge arrangement according to clause 24, wherein the sleeve of the stabilising panel has a top edge, and the lower hinge sleeve further has a lower edge, wherein the top edge and lower edge have at least one tooth, wherein rotation of the sleeve of the stabilising panel urges the teeth into engagement to impart a rotational force on the lower hinge sleeve, wherein the teeth engage one another when the stabilising panel is substantially co-planar with the side panel.

This divisional application is divided from GB1817704.8 (the 'parent application') and the divisional specification as filed comprises the content of the parent application, including the original claims recited as 'representative features' above. The scope of this disclosure therefore includes the full content of the parent application. In any case, protection may be sought for any features disclosed in the parent application as filed.

Claims

Claims 1 A gravity hinge arrangement, comprising: a lower hinge sleeve having a top edge, at least a part of the top edge 5 comprising one of a slanted cam surface or cam follower; and an upper hinge sleeve having a lower edge, the upper hinge sleeve arranged substantially coaxially with the lower hinge sleeve and at least a part of the lower edge comprising the other of a cam follower or slanted cam surface, wherein the cam follower is selectively engagable with the cam surface and the hinge arrangement is configurable between: a locked state in which rotation of the upper hinge sleeve with respect to the lower hinge sleeve is substantially prevented; and a deployed state, in which the upper hinge is rotatable with respect to the lower hinge sleeve by gravity, with the cam follower riding along the cam 15 surface.
2. A gravity hinge arrangement according claim 1, wherein the gravity hinge arrangement is configurable between the locked state and deployed state by rotating the lower hinge sleeve.
3. A gravity hinge arrangement according to claim 1, further comprising a vertical member of a side panel of a podium, wherein the upper hinge sleeve and the lower hinge sleeve are rotatably mounted on the vertical member.
4. A gravity hinge arrangement according to claim 3, further comprising a stabilising panel rotatably secured to the vertical member, wherein the hinge arrangement is configured in a deployed state when the stabilising panel is rotated to be substantially co-planar with the side panel, and in a locked state when the stabilising panel is rotated to be substantially adjacent the side panel.
5. A gravity hinge arrangement according to claim 4, wherein the stabilising panel is secured to a sleeve which is rotatably mounted on the vertical member, wherein the sleeve of the stabilising panel is rotatable with respect to the lower hinge sleeve.
6. A gravity hinge arrangement according to claim 5, wherein the sleeve of the stabilising panel has a top edge, and the lower hinge sleeve further has a lower edge, wherein the top edge and lower edge have at least one tooth, wherein rotation of the sleeve of the stabilising panel urges the teeth into engagement to impart a rotational force on the lower hinge sleeve, wherein the teeth engage one another when the stabilising panel is substantially co-planar with the side panel.