NZ785971A - Interlocking Work Platform System and Method - Google Patents
Interlocking Work Platform System and MethodInfo
- Publication number
- NZ785971A NZ785971A NZ785971A NZ78597122A NZ785971A NZ 785971 A NZ785971 A NZ 785971A NZ 785971 A NZ785971 A NZ 785971A NZ 78597122 A NZ78597122 A NZ 78597122A NZ 785971 A NZ785971 A NZ 785971A
- Authority
- NZ
- New Zealand
- Prior art keywords
- scaffold
- hook
- assembly
- latch
- work platform
- Prior art date
Links
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims abstract 3
Abstract
work platform system having a first work platform. The first work platform having a first hook assembly and a first latch assembly. The system having a second work platform. The second work platform having a second hook assembly and a second latch assembly. The first work platform locked to the second work platform through the first hook assembly engaging with the second latch assembly and the first hook assembly in the use position. A method for using a work platform system. A method for producing a work platform. econd work platform through the first hook assembly engaging with the second latch assembly and the first hook assembly in the use position. A method for using a work platform system. A method for producing a work platform.
Description
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
Interlocking Work rm System and Method
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application serial number
63/155,722 filed March 2, 2021, incorporated by reference .
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention pertains to a work platform system formed by connecting
two work platforms together to move from one rm to the other without getting off either
platform to do so. (As used herein, references to the nt invention” or “invention” relate to
exemplary embodiments and not necessarily to every embodiment encompassed by the appended
claims.) More specifically, the present invention pertains to a work platform system formed by
connecting two work rms together to move from one rm to the other without getting
off either rm to do so where the work platforms are locked together with a sliding hook
assembly.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This section is intended to introduce the reader to various s of the art that may
be related to various aspects of the present invention. The following discussion is intended to
provide information to facilitate a better understanding of the present invention. Accordingly, it
should be understood that statements in the following discussion are to be read in this light, and
not as ions of prior art.
Scaffolds are commonly used to provide artisans with the ability to work across
longer elevated spaces than they otherwise could on a ladder. In many instances, the longer the
elevated work spaces the better for the artisans because they then do not have to climb down off
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the work rm to move the work platform to a new location to access a new elevated workspace
in which they need to work. One way to provide a longer elevated ace is to provide for
dual longer work platforms. However, the larger the work platform becomes, the heavier it
becomes and the more effort is needed to move the work platform when needed.
Another way to accomplish a longer elevated space is to connect two or more
individual work platforms together to effectively double the elevated workspace that would
otherwise be available for only one workspace. However, when combining to individual work
platforms together, care must be taken they are securely and safely connected, as well as they can
be quickly and easily connected together.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The t invention pertains to a work platform system. The system comprises a
first work platform. The first work platform comprises a first ld having a first end and a
second end and a plane upon which a user can stand. The first work platform comprises a first leg
assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the first end of the first scaffold having a first rail and a
second rail and a rung attached to the first rail and the second rail. The first leg assembly in a
folded position ve to the first scaffold and essentially in parallel the plane of the first scaffold.
The first work platform comprises a second leg assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the
second end of the first scaffold, the second leg assembly in an open position relative to the first
scaffold and essentially perpendicular to the plane of the first scaffold. The first work rm
comprises a first hook assembly slidingly attached to the first scaffold adjacent the first end which
slides n a use position where the first hook assembly extends below and outward beyond
the first scaffold between the first rail and the second rail of the first leg assembly and a stowed
position where the first hook assembly is retracted below the first ld. The first work platform
comprises a first latch assembly attached to the first scaffold adjacent the second end.
The work platform system comprises a second work rm. The second work
platform comprises a second ld having a first end and a second end and a plane upon which
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the user can stand which is flat without objects on which the user can trip. The second work
platform comprises a third leg assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the first end of the second
scaffold having a first rail and a second rail and a rung attached to the first rail and the second rail
of the third leg assembly, the third leg assembly in a closed position relative to the second scaffold
and essentially in el to the plane of the second scaffold when the second scaffold is attached
to the first scaffold. The second work platform comprises a fourth leg assembly rotatably attached
with bolts to the second end of the second scaffold, the second leg assembly of the second scaffold
in an open position ve to the second scaffold and essentially perpendicular to the plane of the
second scaffold. The second work platform comprises a second hook assembly slidingly attached
to the second ld adjacent the second end of the second scaffold which slides n a use
position where the second hook assembly extends below and outward beyond the second scaffold
between the first rail and the second rail of the fourth leg assembly and a stowed position where
the first hook assembly is ted below the first scaffold. The second work rm comprises
a second latch assembly attached to the second scaffold nt the first end of the second
scaffold. The first work rm locked to the second work platform through the first hook
assembly engaging with the second latch assembly and the first hook assembly in the use position.
The present invention pertains to a work platform. The work platform
comprises a first scaffold having a first end and a second end and a plane upon which a user can
stand. The work platform comprises a first leg assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the first
end of the first scaffold having a first rail and a second rail and a rung attached to the first rail and
the second rail, the first leg assembly in a folded position relative to the first scaffold and
essentially in parallel the plane of the first ld. The work platform comprises a second leg
assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the second end of the first scaffold, the second leg
assembly in an open position relative to the first ld and essentially perpendicular to the plane
of the first scaffold. The work platform comprises a first hook assembly slidingly attached to the
first scaffold adjacent the first end which slides between a use on where the first hook
assembly extends below and outward beyond the first scaffold between the first rail and the second
rail of the first leg assembly and a stowed position where the first hook assembly is retracted below
the first scaffold, the first hook assembly having a hook crossbar. The work platform comprises a
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first latch assembly having latch assembly es and hooks positioned about the recesses
attached to the first scaffold adjacent the second end.
The present invention pertains to a method for using a work platform system. The
method comprises the steps of sliding a first hook assembly attached adjacent to a first end of a
first scaffold into a use position where the first hook assembly s below and outward beyond
the first scaffold between a first rail and a second rail of a first leg assembly rotatably attached
adjacent to the first end of the first scaffold from a stowed on where the first hook assembly
is retracted below the first scaffold. There is the step of placing a second latch assembly attached
to a second scaffold adjacent a first end of the second scaffold on the first hook ly in the
use position. There is the step of pushing down on the second scaffold so the second latch
assembly engages with the first hook assembly and locks the first work platform to the second
work rm with the first ld coplanar with the second scaffold and forming a surface.
The present ion pertains to a method for producing a work platform. The
method comprises the steps of attaching a track to an underside of a scaffold. There is the step of
fitting a hook assembly to the track so the first hook assembly so the hook ly slides along
the track from a stowed position into a deployed position, where the first hook assembly extends
below and outward beyond the first scaffold between a first rail and a second rail of a first leg
assembly rotatably attached adjacent to the first end of the first scaffold, and when the first hook
assembly is in a stowed position, the first hook assembly is retracted below the first scaffold. There
is the step of attaching a latch assembly to the bottom of the scaffold.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
In the accompanying drawings, the preferred embodiment of the invention and
preferred methods of practicing the ion are illustrated in which:
Figures 1A-1E show multiple views of a work platform for a work platform system.
In these views the legs are seen in their folded and retracted positions. The hook assembly and the
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latch assembly are seen on the underside of the platform. The hook ly is in its stowed
position. Figure 1A is an underside view of the work platform. Figure 1B is a side view of the
work platform. Figure 1C is a front view of the work platform. Figure 1D is an overhead view of
the work platform. Figure 1E is a rear view of the work platform.
s 2A-2C show views with the legs opened and fully extended. The legs can
be extended in increments between fully retracted and fully extended. The hook assembly can be
seen in the stowed position. Figure 2A is a side view of the work rm. Figure 2B is a front
view of the work platform. Figure 2C is a perspective view of the work platform.
Figure 3 shows a work platform with the leg at the hook ly end opened and
fully extended, and the leg at the latch assembly end closed and retracted.
Figure 4 shows a work platform with both legs open and fully extended.
Figure 5 shows an Ext WP about to be joined to a Base WP to form an extended
work platform. The Ext WP is lowered vertically to engage the Base WP.
Figure 6 shows the Ext WP joined to the Base WP. The latch assembly of the Ext
WP automatically engages the hook assembly of the Base WP when the first and second work
platforms are put into position.
Figures 7A and 7B show how the latch assembly engages the hook assembly: hooks
on the Ext WP latch assembly retain the crossbar of the Base WP hook assembly. Figure 7B is a
underside perspective view of the work platform system. Figure 7A is a detailed view of section
A of figure 7B.
In figure 8, the latch ly has been unlatched so the Ext WP can be separated
from the Base WP.
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Figures 9 and 10 show the Ext WP with the legs not shown for clarity. Figure 9
shows the latch assembly in the closed position. Figure 10 shows the latch assembly in the open
position.
Figure 11 shows hook assembly s.
Figures 12-18 show components of the hook assembly, and the hook assembly itself
in a ed position and a stowed position. Figure 12 is a perspective view of the hook assembly.
Figure 13 is a rear view of the hook assembly. Figure 14 is an overhead view of the hook assembly.
Figure 15 is a side view of the hook assembly. Figure 16 is a perspective view of the hook assembly
in a deployed on. Figure 17 is a perspective view of the hook assembly in the stowed on.
Figure 18 is a front view of the hook assembly.
Figures 19-30 show the latch assembly in the unlatched position (figures 19 – 24)
and the latched position (figures 25 – 30). Figure 19 is a right side perspective view of the latch
assembly. Figure 20 is an overhead view of the latch assembly. Figure 21 is a front view of the
latch assembly. Figure 22 is an underside view of the latch assembly. Figure 23 is a left side
perspective view of the latch assembly. Figure 24 is a side view of the latch. Figure 25 is a right
side perspective view of the latch assembly. Figure 26 is an overhead view of the latch assembly.
Figure 27 is a front view of the latch assembly. Figure 28 is an ide view of the latch
assembly. Figure 29 is a left side perspective view of the latch assembly. Figure 30 is a side view
of the latch
Figures 31-40 show an alternative embodiment of the latch assembly in the
hed position es 31 – 35) and the latched position (figures 36 – 40). Figure 31 is a right
underside view of the latch assembly. Figure 32 is a left underside view of the latch assembly.
Figure 33 is a front view of the latch assembly. Figure 34 is an overhead view of the latch assembly.
Figure 35 is a side of the latch assembly. Figure 36 is a right underside view of the latch assembly.
Figure 37 is a left underside view of the latch assembly. Figure 38 is a front view of the latch
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assembly. Figure 39 is an overhead view of the latch assembly. Figure 40 is a side of the latch
assembly.
Figures 41-44 show another alternative ment of the latch assembly in the
unlatched on (figures 41 and 42) and the latched position es 43 and 44).
ED PTION OF THE INVENTION
Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals refer to similar or
identical parts throughout the several views, and more specifically to figures 1A-11 thereof, there
is shown a work platform system 10. The system 10 comprises a first work platform 12. The first
work rm 12 comprises a first ld 14 having a first end 16 and a second end 18 and a
plane 20 upon which a user can stand. The first work platform 12 comprises a first leg assembly
22 rotatably attached with bolts 24 to the first end 16 of the first scaffold 14 having a first rail 26
and a second rail 28 and a rung 30 attached to the first rail 26 and the second rail 28. The first leg
assembly 22 in a folded position relative to the first scaffold 14 and essentially in parallel the plane
of the first scaffold 14. The first work platform 12 comprises a second leg assembly 32 rotatably
ed with bolts 24 to the second end 18 of the first scaffold 14, the second leg assembly 32 in
an open position relative to the first scaffold 14 and essentially perpendicular to the plane 20 of
the first scaffold 14. The first work platform 12 comprises a first hook assembly 34 gly
attached to the first scaffold 14 adjacent the first end 16 which slides between a use position where
the first hook assembly 34 extends below and outward beyond the first scaffold 14 between the
first rail 26 and the second rail 28 of the first leg assembly 22 and a stowed position where the first
hook assembly 34 is retracted below the first scaffold 14. The first work platform 12 comprises a
first latch assembly 36 attached to the first scaffold 14 adjacent the second end 18.
The work platform system 10 comprises a second work platform 38. The second
work platform 38 comprises a second ld 40 having a first end 16 and a second end 18 and a
plane 20 upon which the user can stand which is flat without objects on which the user can trip.
The second work platform 38 comprises a third leg assembly 42 rotatably attached with bolts 24
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to the first end 16 of the second scaffold 40 having a first rail 26 and a second rail 28 and a rung
attached to the first rail 26 and the second rail 28 of the third leg assembly 42, the third leg
assembly 42 in a closed position relative to the second scaffold 40 and ially in parallel to the
plane 20 of the second scaffold 40 when the second ld 40 is attached to the first scaffold 14.
The second work platform 38 comprises a fourth leg assembly 44 rotatably ed with bolts 24
to the second end 18 of the second scaffold 40, the second leg assembly 32 of the second scaffold
40 in an open position relative to the second scaffold 40 and essentially perpendicular to the plane
of the second scaffold 40. The second work platform 38 comprises a second hook assembly 46
slidingly attached to the second ld 40 adjacent the second end 18 of the second scaffold 40
which slides between a use position where the second hook assembly 46 extends below and
outward beyond the second scaffold 40 between the first rail 26 and the second rail 28 of the fourth
leg assembly 44 and a stowed position where the first hook assembly 34 is retracted below the first
scaffold 14. The second work platform 38 comprises a second latch assembly 48 attached to the
second scaffold 40 adjacent the first end 16 of the second scaffold 40, the first work platform 12
locked to the second work platform 38 through the first hook assembly 34 ng with the
second latch assembly 48 and the first hook assembly 34 in the use position.
The second latch assembly 48 may have latch assembly hooks, as shown in figures
19 – 40. The first hook assembly 34 may have a hook crossbar 50 which is locked to the latch
assembly by the latch assembly hooks in the use position. The second latch ly 48 may have
recesses in which the hook crossbar 50 is locked into place by the latch assembly hooks in the use
on. The second latch ly 48 may have springs engaged with the latch assembly hooks
which bias the latch assembly hooks into a closed position to lock the hook crossbar 50 into place
in the es in the use position.
The first hook assembly 34 may have a first hook 56 and a second hook 58 in
parallel and spaced relation with the first hook 56, as shown in figures 11 – 18. The hook crossbar
50 attached to and extending between the first hook 56 and the second hook 58. The hook crossbar
50 may be attached adjacent a front end 60 of the first and second hooks 56, 58. The first hook 56
may have a top surface 62 and a first notch 64 disposed in the top surface 62 of the first hook 56,
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and the second hook 58 has a top e 62 and a second notch 66 disposed in the top e 62
of the second hook 58.
The system 10 may include a first projection 68 and a second projection 70 disposed
nt the first end 16 of the second ld 40 and extending downward from the second
scaffold 40, as shown in figures 8 – 11. The first projection 68 engaged with the first notch 64 and
the second projection 70 engaged with the second notch 66 in the use position. The second latch
assembly 48 may automatically engage the hook crossbar 50 when the first and second projections
68, 70 are positioned in the first and second notches 64, 66, respectively. The second latch
assembly 48 may include a first spring 53 of the springs in contact with a first latch assembly hook
98 of the latch assembly hooks, and a second spring 54 of the springs in contact with a second
latch assembly hook 100 of the latch assembly hooks. The first spring 53 may be positioned about
a first rivet 72 which onally attaches the first hook 56 to the first bracket 94 and the second
spring 54 may be positioned about a second rivet 74 which onally attaches the second hook
58 to the second bracket 96.
The first scaffold 14 may have a first track 76, as shown in figure 16 and 17, to
which the first hook assembly 34 is engaged and slides between a deployed position, where the
hook crossbar 50 extends beyond the first scaffold 14, and a stowed position, where the hook
crossbar 50 is retracted under the first scaffold 14. The first scaffold 14 may have a second track
78 in parallel and spaced relation with the first track 76 to which the first hook assembly 34 is
engaged and slides n the deployed position and the stowed position. The first and second
tracks 76, 78 may be attached to the underside 80 of the first ld 14. The hook assembly may
have a crossplate 82 attached adjacent to and extending between a rear end 84 of the first and
second hooks 56, 58. There may be a first block 86 and a second block 88 attached to the crossplate
82 which engage with and slide in the first track 76 and second track 78, respectively. At both ends
of the first and second tracks 76, 78 may be stops 90 preventing the first and second blocks 86, 88
from sliding out of the first and second tracks 76, 78.
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The second latch assembly 48 may have a backing plate 92 which is attached to an
underside of the second scaffold 40. The second latch assembly 48 may have a first bracket 94
with a first recess 51 of the recesses which extends perpendicularly downward from the backing
plate 92, and a second bracket 96 with a second recess 52 of the recesses which extends
perpendicularly downward from the backing plate 92 and in parallel and spaced relation with the
first bracket 94. The hook crossbar 50 disposed in the first and second recesses 51, 52 when the
first work platform 12 is locked to the second work platform 38.
The second latch assembly 48 may include a first latch assembly hook 98 of the
latch ly hooks, and a second latch assembly hook 100 of the latch assembly hooks. The
first latch assembly hook 98 onally attached to the first bracket 94, and the second latch
assembly hook 100 rotationally attached to the second t 96 such that as the first and second
latch ly hooks 98, 100 move down against the hook crossbar 50, the hook crossbar 50 cams
open the first and second latch assembly hooks 98, 100 and moves into the first and second es
51, 52. As the hook crossbar 50 moves past the first and second latch ly hooks 98, 100 and
into the first and second recesses 51, 52 of the second work platform 38, the first and second latch
assembly hooks 98, 100 of the second work platform 38 move back into the closed position under
the action of the first and second springs 53, 54 of the second work platform 38 biasing the first
and second latch assembly hooks 98, 100, respectively, of the second work platform 38 into the
closed position which locks the hook crossbar 50 of the first work platform 12 into place in the
first and second recesses 51, 52 of the second work platform 38.
As shown in figures 9 and 10, the second latch assembly 48 may include a latch
crank rod 102 connected with the first and second latch assembly hooks 98, 100. The second latch
assembly 48 may include a first latch lever 104 attached to the latch crank rod 102 and to the
second ld 40 which causes the first and second latch assembly hooks 98, 100 to retract to the
open position when the first latch lever 104 is moved, so the hook crossbar 50 of the first work
platform 12 is released from the first and second recesses 51, 52 and the second work platform 38
can be separated from the first work platform 12. The first latch lever 104 may be disposed on the
external surface of a first side 106 of the second scaffold 40. There may be a second latch lever
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108 ed on the external surface of a second side 110 of the second scaffold 40 opposing the
first side 106. If d the leg assemblies may be extended in height, as described in US patent
applications 11/049,453; and 63/305,210, incorporated by reference herein. The leg assemblies
may be rotatably attached to the scaffold using pinch locks, as described in US patent ations
63/305,210; and 17/362,901, incorporated by reference herein. The latch crank rod 102 is attached
to and extends between the first and second latch levers, passing through the slot 120 in the body
122 of each latch assembly hook, as shown in figures 31-40. The latch crank rod 102 has a first
section which is directly connected to the first latch lever and s through the first side 106 of
the second scaffold 40, a second section directly attached to and at an angle with the first section,
the third section directly attached to and at an angle with the second section, a fourth n
ly attached to and added an angle with the third section, and a fifth section directly attached
to and at an angle with the fourth section. The fifth section is directly attached to the second latch
lever 108 and extends h the second side 110 of the second scaffold 40. The third section
extends directly through the slot 120 and the body 122 of each latch assembly hook. The latch
crank rod 102 is used with the latch assembly embodiment shown in figures 31-40.
The present invention pertains to a first work platform 12. The first work
platform 12 comprises a first scaffold 14 having a first end 16 and a second end 18 and a plane 20
upon which a user can stand. The first work platform 12 comprises a first leg assembly 22 rotatably
attached with bolts 24 to the first end 16 of the first scaffold 14 having a first rail 26 and a second
rail 28 and a rung 30 attached to the first rail 26 and the second rail 28. The first leg assembly 22
in a folded position relative to the first scaffold 14 and essentially in parallel the plane 20 of the
first scaffold 14. The first work rm 12 comprises a second leg assembly 32 rotatably ed
with bolts 24 to the second end 18 of the first scaffold 14, the second leg assembly 32 in an open
on relative to the first scaffold 14 and essentially perpendicular to the plane 20 of the first
scaffold 14. The first work platform 12 comprises a first hook assembly 34 slidingly attached to
the first scaffold 14 adjacent the first end 16 which slides between a use position where the first
hook ly 34 extends below and outward beyond the first ld 14 between the first rail 26
and the second rail 28 of the first leg assembly 22 and a stowed position where the first hook
assembly 34 is retracted below the first scaffold 14. The first work platform 12 comprises a first
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latch assembly 36 attached to the first scaffold 14 adjacent the second end 18. The first hook
assembly 34 having a hook crossbar 50. The first work platform 12 comprises a first latch
ly 36 having latch assembly recesses 51, 52 and latch assembly hooks 98, 100 positioned
about the recesses attached to the first ld 14 adjacent the second end 18.
The present ion pertains to a method for using a work platform system 10.
The method comprises the steps of sliding a first hook assembly 34 attached adjacent to a first end
16 of a first scaffold 14 into a use position where the first hook assembly 34 extends below and
outward beyond the first scaffold 14 between a first rail 26 and a second rail 28 of a first leg
ly 22 rotatably attached adjacent to the first end 16 of the first scaffold 14 from a stowed
position where the first hook assembly 34 is retracted below the first scaffold 14. There is the
step of placing a second latch assembly 48 attached to a second scaffold 40 adjacent a first end 16
of the second scaffold 40 on the first hook assembly 34 in the use position. There is the step of
pushing down on the second scaffold 40 so the second latch ly 48 engages with the first
hook assembly 34 and locks the first work platform 12 to the second work platform 38 with the
first scaffold 14 coplanar with the second scaffold 40 and forming a surface.
The t invention pertains to a method for producing a work platform. The
method comprises the steps of attaching a track to an ide of a scaffold. There is the step of
fitting a hook assembly to the track so the first hook assembly 34 so the hook ly slides
along the track from a stowed position into a ed position, where the first hook ly 34
extends below and outward beyond the first scaffold 14 between a first rail 26 and a second rail 28
of a first leg assembly 22 rotatably attached adjacent to the first end 16 of the first scaffold 14, and
when the first hook assembly 34 is in a stowed position, the first hook assembly 34 is retracted
below the first scaffold 14. There is the step of attaching a latch assembly to the bottom of the
scaffold.
Additional work platforms may be added in series to the first and second work
platforms 12, 38 in the same way as described above through each of their respective latch
assemblies and hook assemblies.
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Referring to figure 8, once the hook assembly is in the deployed position of the first
work platform 12, the latch assembly hooks of the latch assembly of the second work platform 38
is positioned over the hook assembly crossbar. The end of the second work platform 38 with the
latch assembly is d down or dropped which causes the hook assembly crossbar to cam open
the latch assembly hooks and moved into the recesses of the latch brackets. As the hook ly
crossbar moves past the latch assembly hooks and into the recesses of the latch brackets, the latch
ly hooks move back into the closed position under the action of springs biasing them into
the closed position and locks the hook assembly crossbar into place in the latch assembly recesses.
Additionally, the projections of the second work platform 38 seat themselves in the hook assembly
notches, to provide further stability and secure connection between the scaffolds of the first and
second work platforms 12, 38.
To separate the second work platform 38 from the first work platform 12, one or
both of the latch levers are d downwards, causing the latch crank rod 102 attached to the
latch lever and connected with the latch assembly hooks to retract the latch assembly hooks. With
the latch assembly hooks retracted, the second work platform 38 is free to be lifted off of the hook
assembly of the first work rm 12 and separated from the first work rm 12.
Figures 1A-1E show multiple views of a work platform of a work platform system
. In these views the legs are seen in their folded and retracted positions. The hook assembly
and the latch assembly are seen on the underside of the platform. The hook ly is in its
stowed position.
Figures 2A-2C show views with the legs opened and fully extended. The legs can
be extended in increments between fully retracted and fully ed. The hook assembly can be
seen in the stowed position.
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Figure 3 shows a work platform with the leg at the hook assembly end opened and
fully extended, and the leg at the latch assembly end closed and retracted. This uration is
called an "Ext WP" configuration.
Figure 4 shows a work platform with both legs open and fully extended. Also, the
hook assembly has been slid from its stowed position to its deployed on. This configuration
is called a "Base WP" uration. Notches in the hook assembly can be seen, also in figure 11.
Figure 5 shows an Ext WP about to be joined to a Base WP to form an extended
work platform. The Ext WP is lowered vertically to engage the Base WP.
Figure 6 shows the Ext WP joined to the Base WP. The latch assembly of the Ext
WP automatically engages the hook assembly of the Base WP when the first and second work
platforms 12, 38 are put into position.
s 7A and 7B show how the latch ly engages the hook assembly: hooks
on the Ext WP latch assembly retain the crossbar of the Base WP hook assembly. Notice that
projections on the EXT WP fit into notches in the hook assembly of the Base WP. These
projections are shown in figures 9 and 10. The notches are seen in figure 11.
In figure 8, the latch assembly has been unlatched so the Ext WP can be separated
from the Base WP. This unlatching is accomplished by the user pressing down on a latch lever on
the side of the platform. As seen in figure 10, there is a latch lever on both sides of the platform.
Figures 9 and 10 show the Ext WP with the legs not shown for y. It can be
seen that pressing down on either latch lever causes the latch crank rod 102 to rotate, which in turn
rotates the latch assembly hooks to their open position.
The projections seen in figures 9 and 10 and the notches seen in figure 11 interact
to provide a visual guarantee that the Ext WP is securely engaged with the Base WP: the
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projections must fit into the hook assembly notches in order for the latch assembly to engage the
hook assembly. If the Ext WP and the Base WP are not properly aligned and the projections are
not able to seat into the notches, then the deck of the Ext WP will stick up above the deck of the
Base WP. This provides a visual cue that the Ext WP is not properly latched to the hook assembly
of the Base WP.
Figures 12-18 show components of the hook assembly, and the hook assembly itself
in a deployed position and a stowed position.
Figures 19-30 show the latch assembly in the unlatched position and the d
Figures 31-40 show an alternative embodiment of the latch ly in the
unlatched position and the latched position.
s 41-44 show another alternative embodiment of the latch assembly in the
unlatched position and the latched position.
In an alternative embodiment of the work platform, figures 41 and 42 show an
alternative latch actuation embodiment. The legs are not shown for clarity. A sliding latch button
124 on top of the second scaffold is connected by a cable 126 to the second latch assembly on the
underside of the second scaffold. Figures 41 and 42 show the latch assembly in the latched position.
The latch assembly embodiment shown in figures 19-30 is used with the sliding latch button and
cable.
In figures 43 and 44, the latch button has been slid to the unlatched position. The
cable has pulled up on the second latch ly causing the latch assembly hooks to move to the
unlatched or open position. Other than the latch ion s described here, this work platform
embodiment operates in the same manner as the work platform embodiment described above. The
cable 126 s from the latch button 124, where it is attached, to the latch crank rod 102, where
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it is attached. The movement of the latch button 124 acts r to the latch levers, causing the
latch crank rod 102 to move and thus to move the first and second latch hooks into the open
position. The latch springs operate in the same way, as described above, biasing the first and
second latch hooks into the closed position and the latch button 124 back into the latched position.
In this embodiment, the latch crank rod 102 is simply a single section beginning and ending at and
between the first and second latch brackets, ially corresponding to the third section of the
latch crank rod 102 in the other embodiment. The sliding latch button 124 fits into a groove 128
in the second ld had about a center between the first and second sides of the second scaffold
40 so it does not protrude above the plane 20 and possibly cause the user to trip.
The user merely presses the second work platform 38 down onto the hook crossbar
50 of the first hook assembly 34 of the first work platform 12. The second latch assembly 48 on
the second work platform 38 automatically engages the first hook assembly 34 of the first work
platform 12. This is a very easy ure. An onal feature is the work rm of the
system 10 es a visual cue to let the user know that the two work platforms are properly
connected, the projections 68, 70 seated in the notches 64, 66. By opening the latch assembly, the
two work platforms are easily separated.
Although the invention has been described in detail in the foregoing embodiments
for the purpose of illustration, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for that purpose and
that variations can be made therein by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and
scope of the invention except as it may be described by the following claims.
In the claim which follows, and in the preceding description, except where the
context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise”
and variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify
the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features
in s ments of the apparatus and method as disclosed herein.
P0371NZ
Claims (21)
1. A work platform system comprising: a first work platform comprising: a first scaffold having a first end and a second end and a plane upon which a user can stand; a first leg assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the first end of the first scaffold having a first rail and a second rail and a rung attached to the first rail and the second rail, the first leg assembly in a folded position relative to the first scaffold and essentially in parallel with the plane of the first scaffold; a second leg assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the second end of the first scaffold, the second leg assembly in an open position relative to the first scaffold and ially perpendicular to the plane of the first scaffold; a first hook assembly slidingly attached to the first scaffold adjacent the first end which slides between a use on where the first hook assembly extends below and outward beyond the first scaffold n the first rail and the second rail of the first leg assembly and a stowed on where the first hook assembly is retracted below the first ld; a first latch assembly attached to the first scaffold adjacent the second end; a second work platform comprising: a second scaffold having a first end and a second end and a plane upon which the user can stand which is flat without objects on which the user can trip; P0371NZ a third leg assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the first end of the second scaffold having a first rail and a second rail and a rung attached to the first rail and the second rail of the third leg ly, the third leg assembly in a closed position relative to the second scaffold and essentially in parallel to the plane of the second scaffold when the second ld is attached to the first scaffold; a fourth leg assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the second end of the second scaffold, the second leg assembly of the second scaffold in an open position relative to the second scaffold and essentially perpendicular to the plane of the second scaffold; a second hook assembly slidingly attached to the second scaffold adjacent the second end of the second scaffold which slides between a use position where the second hook ly extends below and outward beyond the second scaffold between the first rail and the second rail of the fourth leg ly and a stowed position where the second hook assembly is retracted below the second scaffold; and a second latch ly attached to the second scaffold adjacent the first end of the second scaffold, the first work platform locked to the second work platform through the first hook assembly engaging with the second latch assembly and the first hook assembly in the use position.
2. The system of Claim 1 wherein the second latch assembly has latch assembly hooks.
3. The system of Claim 2 wherein the first hook ly has a hook crossbar which is locked to the latch assembly by the latch assembly hooks in the use position.
4. The system of Claim 3 n the second latch assembly has recesses in which the hook crossbar is locked into place by the latch assembly hooks in the use position. P0371NZ
5. The system of Claim 4 wherein the second latch assembly has springs engaged with the latch assembly hooks which bias the latch ly hooks into a closed position to lock the hook crossbar into place in the recesses in the use position.
6. The system of Claim 5 wherein the first hook assembly has a first hook and a second hook in parallel and spaced relation with the first hook, the hook crossbar attached to and extending n the first hook and the second hook.
7. The system of Claim 6 wherein the first hook has a top surface and a first notch disposed in the top surface of the first hook, and the second hook has a top surface and a second notch disposed in the top surface of the second hook.
8. The system of Claim 7 including a first projection and a second projection disposed adjacent the first end of the second scaffold and extending downward from the second scaffold, the first projection engaged with the first notch and the second projection engaged with the second notch in the use on.
9. The system of Claim 8 wherein the second latch assembly automatically engages the hook crossbar when the first and second projections are positioned in the first and second notches, tively.
10. The system of Claim 9 wherein the second latch assembly includes a first spring of the springs in contact with a first latch assembly hook of the latch assembly hooks, and a second spring of the springs in contact with a second latch assembly hook of the latch assembly hooks.
11. The system of Claim 10 wherein the first scaffold has a first track to which the first hook assembly is d and slides between a deployed position, where the hook ar extends beyond the first scaffold, and a stowed position, where the hook crossbar is retracted under the first scaffold. P0371NZ
12. The system of Claim 11 n the first scaffold has a second track in parallel and spaced relation with the first track to which the first hook assembly is engaged and slides between the deployed position and the stowed position.
13. The system of Claim 12 wherein the second latch assembly has a g plate which it is attached to an underside of the second scaffold, a first bracket with a first recess of the recesses which extends perpendicularly downward from the backing plate, and a second t with a second recess of the recesses which extends perpendicularly downward from the backing plate and in parallel and spaced relation with the first bracket, the hook crossbar disposed in the first and second recesses when the first work platform is locked to the second work platform.
14. The system of Claim 13 wherein the second latch assembly includes a first latch assembly hook of the latch assembly hooks, and a second latch assembly hook of the latch assembly hooks, the first latch assembly hook rotationally attached to the first bracket, and the second latch assembly hook rotationally attached to the second bracket such that as the first and second latch assembly hooks move down against the hook crossbar, the hook crossbar cams open the first and second latch assembly hooks and moves into the first and second recesses, as the hook crossbar moves past the first and second latch assembly hooks and into the first and second recesses of the second work platform the first and second latch assembly hooks of the second work rm move back into the closed position under the action of the first and second s of the second work platform g the first and second latch ly hooks, tively, of the second work platform into the closed position which locks the hook crossbar of the first work platform into place in the first and second recesses of the second work platform.
15. The system of Claim 14 wherein the second latch assembly es a latch crank rod connected with the first and second latch assembly hooks, and a first latch lever attached to the latch crank rod and to the second scaffold which causes the first and second latch assembly hooks to retract to the open position when the first latch lever is moved, so the hook crossbar of the first work platform is released from the first and second recesses and the second work platform can be separated from the first work platform. P0371NZ
16. The system of Claim 15 wherein the first and second tracks are attached to an underside of the first scaffold.
17. The system of Claim 16 wherein the first hook assembly has a crossplate attached adjacent to and ing between a rear end of the first and second hooks, and a first block and a second block attached to the crossplate which engage with and slide in the first track and second track, respectively.
18. The system of claim 14 wherein the second latch assembly includes a sliding latch button on a top surface of the second scaffold which is connected by a cable to the second latch ly on the underside of the second scaffold, the latch button causing the second latch assembly to enter an open position to e the hook bar.
19. A method for using a work platform system sing the steps of: sliding a first hook assembly attached adjacent to a first end of a first ld into a use position where the first hook assembly extends below and outward beyond the first scaffold n a first rail and a second rail of a first leg assembly rotatably attached adjacent to the first end of the first scaffold from a stowed position where the first hook assembly is retracted below the first scaffold; g a second latch assembly attached to a second scaffold adjacent a first end of the second scaffold on the first hook assembly in the use position; and pushing down on the second scaffold so the second latch assembly engages with the first hook assembly and locks the first work platform to the second work platform with the first scaffold coplanar with the second scaffold and forming a surface.
20. A method for producing a work platform comprising the steps of: P0371NZ attaching a track to an underside of a scaffold; fitting a hook assembly to the track so the first hook assembly so the hook assembly slides along the track from a stowed position into a deployed position, where the first hook assembly extends below and outward beyond the first scaffold between a first rail and a second rail of a first leg ly rotatably attached adjacent to the first end of the first scaffold, and when the first hook assembly is in a stowed position, the first hook assembly is retracted below the first scaffold; and attaching a latch assembly to the bottom of the scaffold.
21. A work platform comprising: a first scaffold having a first end and a second end and a plane upon which a user can stand; a first leg assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the first end of the first ld having a first rail and a second rail and a rung attached to the first rail and the second rail, the first leg assembly in a folded position relative to the first ld and essentially in parallel the plane of the first scaffold; a second leg assembly rotatably attached with bolts to the second end of the first scaffold, the second leg assembly in an open position relative to the first scaffold and ially perpendicular to the plane of the first scaffold; a first hook assembly slidingly attached to the first scaffold adjacent the first end which slides between a use position where the first hook ly extends below and d beyond the first scaffold between the first rail and the second rail of the first leg assembly and a P0371NZ stowed position where the first hook assembly is retracted below the first scaffold, the first hook assembly having a hook crossbar; and a first latch assembly having latch assembly recesses and hooks positioned about the recesses ed to the first scaffold adjacent the second end. P0371NZ 12 20 14 FIG 1C 18 12 18 14 20 12 32 14 36 FIG 1B 14 12 22 FIG 1D 34 FIG 1A 16 16 FIG 1E 12 20 14 FIG 2B 32 12 18 12 14 FIG 2C 32 28 16 30 20 22 34 FIG 2A 12 22 32 12 14 20 FIG 4 32 20 22 14 64 FIG 3 34 34 12 22 18 12 32 14 16 16 22 34 38 42 40 FIG 5 20 46 10 18 44 32 12 14 22 42 40 FIG 6 46 38 20 44 10 32 18 12 36 34 68, 70 FIG 7A 14 26 34 68 16 16 22 26 26 28 70 28 30 30 42 28 104 56 10 40 58 FIG 7B 26 98,100 44 28 50 104 14 58 50 34 104 98, 100 FIG 8 70 92 96 94 68 104 FIG 10 106 108 70 100, 98 100, 98 80 68 102 104 FIG 9 102 80 106 14 104 12 24 FIG 11 66 60 64 62 62 60 58 34 50 28
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US63/155722 | 2021-03-02 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ785971A true NZ785971A (en) | 2022-03-25 |
Family
ID=
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