US20230092086A1

US20230092086A1 - Extendable and retractable support structure

Info

Publication number: US20230092086A1
Application number: US17/482,735
Authority: US
Inventors: Jefferson Romais
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2021-09-23
Filing date: 2021-09-23
Publication date: 2023-03-23

Abstract

Extendable and retractable support structure is a support structure that can be extended and retracted. The support structure could be linear, such as a post, stud, rafter, beam, or similar. The support structure could also be two-dimensional, such as a floor, ceiling, wall, platform, deck, or similar. The support structure is formed by two strings of trapezoidal links that weave together or interlock together to form a rigid support structure. Each string of trapezoidal links is a flexible member with a plurality of trapezoidal links attached thereto that are evenly spaced by the overall width of each trapezoidal link. Each string of trapezoidal links is wound or winded onto a roll or a roll core. To extend the support structure, the two rolls rotate to unwind the two strings of trapezoidal links in unison wherein each trapezoidal link from one string interlocks between or weaves between two adjacent trapezoidal links on the other string, and vice versa. To retract the support structure, the two rolls rotate to wind in the two strings of trapezoidal links in unison wherein each trapezoidal link from one string unlocks or unweaves itself from between the two adjacent trapezoidal links on the other string, and vice versa.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a support structure that can be extended and retracted. The support structure could be linear, such as a post, stud, rafter, beam, or similar. The support structure could also be two-dimensional, such as a floor, ceiling, wall, platform, deck, or similar. The support structure is formed by two strings of trapezoidal links that weave together or interlock together to form a rigid support structure. Each string of trapezoidal links is a flexible member with a plurality of trapezoidal links attached thereto that are evenly spaced by the overall width of each trapezoidal link. Each string of trapezoidal links is wound or winded onto a roll or a roll core.
To extend the support structure, the two rolls rotate to unwind the two strings of trapezoidal links in unison wherein each trapezoidal link from one string interlocks between or weaves between two adjacent trapezoidal links on the other string, and vice versa, as the two roles unwind in order to form the support structure. Each trapezoidal link interlocks between two adjacent trapezoidal links on the other string and vice versa in order to create and extend a very solid support structure from the two rolls. This process projects the support structure out from the two rolls and essentially extends the support structure out into the air from the two rolls as the two rolls are rotated to project or unwind the support structure. As the two rolls unwind, links in the support structure lock together to form a very sturdy and solid support structure. The support structure does not require any other support or attachment other than to the two rolls. Hence, the two rolls and only the two rolls hold and support the support structure that extends from the two rolls.
To retract the support structure, the two rolls rotate to wind in the two strings of trapezoidal links in unison wherein each trapezoidal link from one string unlocks or unweaves itself from between the two adjacent trapezoidal links on the other string, and vice versa, as the two roles are wound in in order to retract the support structure. Each trapezoidal link unlocks from between the two adjacent trapezoidal links on the other string and vice versa in order to retract or roll in the support structure. This process retracts the support structure onto the two rolls and essentially winds in the support structure from the air. As the two rolls wind up, each string of trapezoidal links winds back up onto a core.

2. Description of Related Art

There are other extendable and retractable support structures in the prior art, however, there are none with two strings of trapezoidal links that are each wound up onto a core wherein the two strings can be unwound so that each string interlocks with or mates with the other string to form an exceptionally strong and rigid support structure that can also be wound back up to retract the support structure onto the roles as shown and described below.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an aspect of extendable and retractable support structure to extend a rigid support member, structure, or framework out into the air.
It is an aspect of extendable and retractable support structure to retract a rigid support member, structure, or framework out from the air.
It is an aspect of extendable and retractable support structure to be linear, such as a post, stud, rafter, beam, or similar.
It is an aspect of extendable and retractable support structure to be two-dimensional, such as a floor, ceiling, wall, platform, deck, or similar.
It is an aspect of the extendable and retractable support structure to be formed by two strings of trapezoidal links that weave together or interlock together to form a rigid support structure.
It is an aspect of each string of trapezoidal links to be a flexible member with a plurality of trapezoidal links attached thereto that are evenly spaced by the overall width of each trapezoidal link.
It is an aspect of each string of trapezoidal links to be wound or winded onto a roll or a roll core wherein the rolls are unwound to extend the rigid support member, structure, or framework and wind in to retract the rigid support member, structure, or framework.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 3 is a rear elevation view of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 4 is a right side elevation view of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 5 is a left side elevation view of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of a second embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 13 is a rear elevation view of a second embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 14 is a right side elevation view of a second embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 15 is a left side elevation view of a second embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 16 is a top plan view of a second embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 17 is a bottom plan view of a second embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of a second embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 19 is a side elevation view of a second embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 22 is a front elevation view of a third embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 23 is a rear elevation view of a third embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 24 is a right side elevation view of a third embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 25 is a left side elevation view of a third embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 26 is a top plan view of a third embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 27 is a bottom plan view of a third embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 28 is a side elevation view of a third embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 29 is a side elevation view of a third embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 32 is a front elevation view of a fourth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 33 is a rear elevation view of a fourth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 34 is a right side elevation view of a fourth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 35 is a left side elevation view of a fourth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 36 is a top plan view of a fourth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 37 is a bottom plan view of a fourth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 38 is a side elevation view of a fourth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 39 is a side elevation view of a fourth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 40 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 42 is a front elevation view of a fifth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 43 is a rear elevation view of a fifth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 44 is a right side elevation view of a fifth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 45 is a left side elevation view of a fifth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 46 is a top plan view of a fifth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 47 is a bottom plan view of a fifth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 48 is a side elevation view of a fifth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 49 is a side elevation view of a fifth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 52 is a front elevation view of a sixth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 53 is a rear elevation view of a sixth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 54 is a right side elevation view of a sixth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 55 is a left side elevation view of a sixth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 56 is a top plan view of a sixth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 57 is a bottom plan view of a sixth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 58 is a side elevation view of a sixth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 59 is a side elevation view of a sixth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 62 is a front elevation view of a seventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 63 is a rear elevation view of a seventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 64 is a right side elevation view of a seventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 65 is a left side elevation view of a seventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 66 is a top plan view of a seventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 67 is a bottom plan view of a seventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 68 is a side elevation view of a seventh embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 69 is a side elevation view of a seventh embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 70 is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 71 is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 72 is a front elevation view of an eighth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 73 is a rear elevation view of an eighth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 74 is a right side elevation view of an eighth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 75 is a left side elevation view of an eighth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 76 is a top plan view of an eighth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 77 is a bottom plan view of an eighth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 78 is a side elevation view of an eighth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 79 is a side elevation view of an eighth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 80 is a perspective view of an eighth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 81 is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 82 is a front elevation view of a ninth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 83 is a rear elevation view of a ninth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 84 is a right side elevation view of a ninth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 85 is a left side elevation view of a ninth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 86 is a top plan view of a ninth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 87 is a bottom plan view of a ninth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 88 is a side elevation view of a ninth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 89 is a side elevation view of a ninth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 90 is a perspective view of a ninth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 91 is a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 92 is a front elevation view of a tenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 93 is a rear elevation view of a tenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 94 is a right side elevation view of a tenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 95 is a left side elevation view of a tenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 96 is a top plan view of a tenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 97 is a bottom plan view of a tenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 98 is a side elevation view of a tenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 99 is a side elevation view of a tenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 100 is a perspective view of a tenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 101 is a perspective view of an eleventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 102 is a front elevation view of an eleventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 103 is a rear elevation view of an eleventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 104 is a right side elevation view of an eleventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 105 is a left side elevation view of an eleventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 106 is a top plan view of an eleventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 107 is a bottom plan view of an eleventh embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 108 is a side elevation view of an eleventh embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 109 is a side elevation view of an eleventh embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 110 is a perspective view of an eleventh embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 111 is a perspective view of a twelfth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 112 is a front elevation view of a twelfth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 113 is a rear elevation view of a twelfth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 114 is a right side elevation view of a twelfth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 115 is a left side elevation view of a twelfth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 116 is a top plan view of a twelfth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 117 is a bottom plan view of a twelfth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 118 is a side elevation view of a twelfth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 119 is a side elevation view of a twelfth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 120 is a perspective view of a twelfth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 121 is a perspective view of a thirteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 122 is a front elevation view of a thirteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 123 is a rear elevation view of a thirteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 124 is a right side elevation view of a thirteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 125 is a left side elevation view of a thirteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 126 is a top plan view of a thirteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 127 is a bottom plan view of a thirteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 128 is a side elevation view of a thirteenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 129 is a side elevation view of a thirteenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 130 is a perspective view of a thirteenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 131 is a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 132 is a front elevation view of a fourteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 133 is a rear elevation view of a fourteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 134 is a right side elevation view of a fourteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 135 is a left side elevation view of a fourteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 136 is a top plan view of a fourteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 137 is a bottom plan view of a fourteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 138 is a side elevation view of a fourteenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 139 is a side elevation view of a fourteenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 140 is a perspective view of a fourteenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 141 is a perspective view of a fifteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 142 is a front elevation view of a fifteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 143 is a rear elevation view of a fifteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 144 is a right side elevation view of a fifteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 145 is a left side elevation view of a fifteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 146 is a top plan view of a fifteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 147 is a bottom plan view of a fifteenth embodiment of a trapezoidal prism link.

FIG. 148 is a side elevation view of a fifteenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the retracted position.

FIG. 149 is a side elevation view of a fifteenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

FIG. 150 is a perspective view of a fifteenth embodiment of an extendable and retractable support structure in the extended position.

DEFINITION LIST


Term	Definition

5	Extendable and Retractable Support Structure
10	Trapezoidal Prism Link
12	Mortise on Trapezoidal Prism Link
14	Tenon on Trapezoidal Prism Link
16	Spring on Trapezoidal Prism Link
20	First Track
25	First String Assembly
30	Second Track
35	Second String Assembly
40	First Roll
50	Second Roll
60	Track Section with One or More Integrated Trapezoidal
	Prism Links

62	Trapezoidal Prism Link on 60
64	Upper Planar Member on 60
66	Hinge Knuckle on 64
68	Pin Hole on 66
70	Bottom Groove on 62
72	Bottom Lap Joint on 64
74	Top Lap Joint on 64
76	Mortise on 62
78	Tenon on 62
80	Hinge Pin

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In some embodiments, extendable and retractable support structure 5 comprises: a plurality of trapezoidal prism links 10; a first track 20; a second track 30; a first roll 40; and a second roll 50. A plurality of trapezoidal prism links 10 is attached to the first track 20 to make a first string assembly 25. First string assembly 25 is wound or winded onto a first roll 40 and thereby attached to first roll 40. A plurality of trapezoidal prism links 10 is attached to the second track 30 to make a second string assembly 35. Second string assembly 35 is wound onto a second roll 50 and thereby attached to second roll 50. First roll 40 with attached first string assembly 25 and second roll 50 with attached second string assembly 35 work together in tandem to unwind or uncoil in order to extend the structure and wind in or coil in order to retract the structure. As the first and second rolls 40,50 unwind or uncoil, the first string assembly 25 interlocks, weaves, mates, or attaches to the second string assembly 35 to create the extended structure. The extended structure is not supported on the extended end or anywhere in the middle. The extended structure is only supported by attachment to rolls 40,50 with interlocking attachment between each trapezoidal prism link 10 on first string assembly 25 and each trapezoidal prism link 10 on second string assembly 35. Thus, the extended structure extends out from the first and second rolls 40,50 to essentially be suspended in mid-air without any other support. As discussed below, this is possible because of the special interlocking attachment mechanism between adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 on first and second string assemblies 25,35. These embodiments are depicted in FIGS. 1-40, 51-60, 111-130, and 141-150 .
Each trapezoidal prism link 10 is a rigid Isosceles trapezoidal prism shaped member. An isosceles trapezoidal prism is a six sided prism or polyhedron made of two trapezoids that are joined together by four rectangles. Further each of two trapezoids is a convex Isosceles trapezoid. A convex Isosceles trapezoid is a trapezoid with a line of symmetry bisecting one pair of opposite sides where both sides are mirror images of each other. Alternatively, a convex Isosceles trapezoid can be defined as a trapezoid in which both legs and both base angles are of the same measure. Each trapezoidal prism link 10 must be an Isosceles trapezoidal prism shaped member in order to properly and rigidly interlock or weave together with adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10. In other words, both ends of each trapezoidal prism link 10 must be exactly the same shape so that one end of one trapezoidal prism link 10 may interlock with or weave with the other end of another trapezoidal prism link 10 as discussed below.
Each trapezoidal prism link 10 has a first surface, a second surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, a first end, a second end, a height, an overall width, a length, and a longitudinal axis. The first end of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is an Isosceles trapezoid shaped planar surface. The second end of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is an Isosceles trapezoid shaped planar surface. Each Isosceles trapezoid shaped planar surface has a short edge, a long edge, a first diagonal edge, and a second diagonal edge. The first end of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is opposite from the second end of each trapezoidal prism link. The first end and the second end are parallel with each other. The longitudinal axis of each trapezoidal prism link 10 runs from the first end to the second end of the trapezoidal prism link 10 and is perpendicular to the first end and to the second end of the trapezoidal prism link 10. The upper surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is a rectangular planar surface that is adjacent to the short edge of the first end and adjacent to the short edge of the second end, lying in between the short edges of the first and second ends. The upper surface has a length and a width. The lower surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is a rectangular planar surface that is adjacent to the long edge of the first end and adjacent to the long edge of the second end, lying in between the long edges of the first and second ends. The lower surface has a length and a width. The upper surface and the lower surface are parallel with each other. The first surface is a rectangular planar surface that is adjacent to the first diagonal edge of the first end and adjacent to first diagonal edge of the second end, lying in between the first diagonal edges of the first and second ends. The second surface is a rectangular planar surface that is adjacent to the second diagonal edge of the first end and adjacent to second diagonal edge of the second end, lying in between the second diagonal edges of the first and second ends. The first surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is the leading surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 as the first and second rolls 40,50 are unwound as discussed below. The second surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is the trailing surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 as the first and second rolls 40,50 are unwound as discussed below. The first and second surfaces are not parallel with each other wherein these surfaces form an obtuse angle between these members. The height of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is the perpendicular distance between the lower surface to the upper surface of the trapezoidal prism link 10. The overall width of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is the width of the lower surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10. The length of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is the length of the lower surface or the upper surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 which are the same.
In the case of a linear extendable and retractable support structure 5, such as a post, stud, rafter, beam, or similar, the length of each trapezoidal prism link 10 would be short or shorter than that in the case a two-dimensional extendable and retractable support structure 5, as depicted in FIGS. 11-40,51-60, 111-130, and 141-150 .
In the case of a two-dimensional extendable and retractable support structure 5, such as a floor, ceiling, wall, platform, deck, or similar, the length of each trapezoidal prism link 10 would be long or longer than that in the case a linear extendable and retractable support structure 5, as depicted in FIGS. 1-10 .
In best mode, each trapezoidal prism link 10 is solid, as depicted in FIGS. 1-20 , wherein each trapezoidal prism link 10 is a solid block of material.
Alternately, each trapezoidal prism link 10 may be hollow, as depicted in FIGS. 21-30 , wherein the first and second surfaces of each trapezoidal prism link 10 are deleted or nonexistent to leave an open of hollow interior.
Alternately still, each trapezoidal prism link may be a composite that is made of two or more different layers of material, as depicted in FIGS. 31-40 .
Alternately still, each trapezoidal prism link may be made from an I-beam of have an I-shaped cross section, as depicted in FIGS. 51-60 .
Alternately still, each trapezoidal prism link 10 may be hollow, as depicted in FIGS. 111-130 , wherein the first and second ends of each trapezoidal prism link 10 are deleted or nonexistent to leave an open of hollow interior.
Alternately still, each trapezoidal prism link may be made from an upper planar member and a lower planar member connected together with two helical spring, as depicted in FIGS. 141-150 .
Each trapezoidal prism link 10 may alternately have a mortise 76 and a tenon 78. Mortise 76 is a recess, void, or hole in the first or second surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 as depicted. Tenon 78 is a raised area, protrusion, or knob in the first or second surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 as depicted. If the tenon 78 is on the first surface, then the mortise 76 must be on the second surface, and vice versa. Tenon 78 functions to mate with mortise 76, and vice versa, to make a typical mortise and tenon joint as two adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 are interlocked or weaved together. This mode is depicted in FIGS. 121-130 .
Each trapezoidal prism link 10 may be made of any known material such as: metal, steel, aluminum, polymer, plastic, composite, wood, fiberglass, ceramic, carbon fiber, or any other known material.
Each trapezoidal prism link 10 may be monolithic or made from one solid block of material or alternately made by attaching together several different pieces of material.
First track 20 is a rectangular strip of flexible material or a rectangular sheet of flexible material. The flexible material of first track 20 has the ability to bend or compress without cracking or breaking. First track 20 has a first end, a second end, a first edge, a second edge, an inner surface, an outer surface, a width, a length, a thickness, and a longitudinal axis. First track 20 may be made of any known material such as: woven fabric, non-woven fabric, polymer, plastic, composite, carbon fiber, fiberglass, metal, steel, aluminum, or any other known material. The width of first track 20 must be similar or equal to the length of each trapezoidal prism link 10 for proper operation of extendable and retractable support structure 5. In operation of the extendable and retractable support structure 5, first track 20 is wound onto the first roll 40 in the retracted position and unwound from the first roll 40 in the extended position. The first end of first track 20 is the end of first track 20 that is first wound onto the first roll 40 and therefore is the inner end the roll of first track 20 when wound onto first roll 40. The second end of first track 20 is opposite the first end of first track 20 and therefore is the outer end of the roll of first track 20 when wound onto first roll 40. The inner surface of first track 20 is the surface of first track 20 that is on the inner side of the roll of first track 20 when wound onto first roll 40. The outer surface of first track 20 is the surface of first track 20 that is on the outer side of the roll of first track 20 when wound onto first roll 40. The first edge of first track 20 and the second edge of first track 20 are parallel and perpendicular to the first and second ends of the first track 20. The longitudinal axis of first track 20 runs from the first end of first track 20 to the second end of first track 20 and is parallel with the first and second edges of the first track 20.
A first string assembly 25 is created by attaching a plurality of trapezoidal prism links 10 to the first track 20. A plurality of trapezoidal prism links 10 is attached to the first track 20 to yield a first string assembly 25. First string assembly 25 has a first end, a second end, a first edge, a second edge, an inner surface, an outer surface, a width, a length, and a longitudinal axis that coincide and correspond with those from the first track 20. Each trapezoidal prism link 10 is evenly spaced along the first track 20 by a distance that is the overall width of each trapezoidal prism link 10. Thus, the center-to-center distance between each trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 is the overall width of each trapezoidal prism link 10. This spacing is required for the trapezoidal prism links 10 on the first string assembly 25 to properly interlock and weave with the trapezoidal prism links 10 on the second string assembly 35 and vice versa. To attach each trapezoidal prism link 10 to first track 20, the upper surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is attached to the inner surface of first track 20 so that the longitudinal axis of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first track 20, the first end of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is flush with the first edge of first track 20, and the second end of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is flush with the second edge of first track 20. This attachment may be accomplished by any known means such as: weld, epoxy, glue, adhesive, fasteners, bolts, screws, nails, staples, brazing, seam seal, rolled seam, press fit, or any other know means. In best mode, this attachment is accomplished by a flexible means in which each trapezoidal prism link 10 remains attached to the first track 20 however this attachment still allows for some degree of play or movement between each trapezoidal prism link 10 and the first track 20. This flexibility or play allows for easier winding and unwinding of the first string assembly 25 onto first roll 40 as discussed below. Also, this flexibility or play allows for easier engagement or interlocking or weaving of each trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 with each trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 as discussed below.
Second track 30 is a rectangular strip of flexible material or a sheet of flexible material. The flexible material of second track 30 has the ability to bend or compress without cracking or breaking. Second track 30 has a first end, a second end, a first edge, a second edge, an inner surface, an outer surface, a width, a length, a thickness, and a longitudinal axis. Second track 30 may be made of any known material such as: woven fabric, non-woven fabric, polymer, plastic, composite, carbon fiber, fiberglass, metal, steel, aluminum, or any other known material. The width of second track 30 must be similar or equal to the length of each trapezoidal prism link 10 for proper operation of extendable and retractable support structure 5. Thus, the width of first track 20 must be equal to the width of second track 30. In operation of the extendable and retractable support structure 5, second track 30 is wound onto the second roll 50 in the retracted position and unwound from the second roll 50 in the extended position. The first end of second track 30 is the end of second track 30 that is first wound onto the second roll 50 and therefore is the inner end the roll of second track 30 when wound onto second roll 50. The second end of second track 30 is opposite the first end of second track 30 and therefore is the outer end of the roll of second track 30 when wound onto second roll 50. The inner surface of second track 30 is the surface of second track 30 that is on the inner side of the roll of second track 30 when wound onto second roll 50. The outer surface of second track 30 is the surface of second track 30 that is on the outer side of the roll of second track 30 when wound onto second roll 50. The first edge of second track 30 and the second edge of second track 30 are parallel and perpendicular to the first and second ends of second track 30. The longitudinal axis of second track 30 runs from the first end of second track 30 to the second end of second track 30 and is parallel with the first and second edges of the second track 30.
A second string assembly 35 is created by attaching a plurality of trapezoidal prism links 10 to the second track 30. A plurality of trapezoidal prism links 10 is attached to the second track 30 to yield a second string assembly 35. Second string assembly 35 has a first end, a second end, a first edge, a second edge, an inner surface, an outer surface, a width, a length, and a longitudinal axis that coincide and correspond with those from the first track 20. Each trapezoidal prism link 10 is evenly spaced along the second track 30 by a distance that is the overall width of each trapezoidal prism link 10. Thus, the center-to-center distance between each trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 is the overall width of each trapezoidal prism link 10. This spacing is required for the trapezoidal prism links 10 on the second string assembly 35 to properly interlock and weave with the trapezoidal prism links 10 on the first string assembly 25 and vice versa. To attach each trapezoidal prism link 10 to second track 30, the upper surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is attached to the inner surface of second track 30 so that the longitudinal axis of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second track 30, the first end of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is flush with the first edge of second track 30, and the second end of each trapezoidal prism link 10 is flush with the second edge of second track 30. This attachment may be accomplished by any known means such as: weld, epoxy, glue, adhesive, fasteners, bolts, screws, nails, staples, brazing, seam seal, rolled seam, press fit, or any other know means. In best mode, this attachment is accomplished by a flexible means in which each trapezoidal prism link 10 remains attached to the first track 20 however this attachment still allows for some degree of play or movement between each trapezoidal prism link 10 and the first track 20. This flexibility or play allows for easier winding and unwinding of the first string assembly 25 onto first roll 40 as discussed below. Also, this flexibility or play allows for easier engagement or interlocking or weaving of each trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 with each trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 as discussed below.
First roll 40 is a rigid roll core or rigid cylindrical member. First roll 40 has an outer surface, an inner surface, an inner diameter, an outer diameter, a circumference, a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis. First roll 40 may be solid or hollow. First roll 40 may be made of any known material such as: polymer, plastic, composite, carbon fiber, fiberglass, metal, steel, aluminum, or any other known material. In the case of first roll 40 being hollow, the first end may be open or closed. In the case of first roll 40 being hollow, the second end may be open or closed.
The first string assembly 25 is attached to the first roll 40 and is wound onto the first roll 40 as follows. The first end of first track 20 is attached to the outer surface of first roll 40 wherein: the longitudinal axis of the first track 20 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first roll 40, the first edge of first track 20 is adjacent to the first end of first roll 40, and the second edge of first track 20 is adjacent to the second end of first roll 40. This attachment may be accomplished by any known means such as: weld, epoxy, glue, adhesive, fasteners, bolts, screws, nails, staples, brazing, seam seal, rolled seam, press fit, or any other know means. Then the first string assembly 25 is wound onto or loaded onto the first roll 40 by winding the first string assembly around the first roll 40. The entire first string assembly 25 is wound onto the first roll 40.
Second roll 50 is a rigid roll core or rigid cylindrical member. Second roll 50 has an outer surface, an inner surface, an inner diameter, an outer diameter, a circumference, a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis. Second roll 50 may be solid or hollow. Second roll 50 may be made of any known material such as: polymer, plastic, composite, carbon fiber, fiberglass, metal, steel, aluminum, or any other known material. In the case of second roll 50 being hollow, the first end may be open or closed. In the case of second roll 50 being hollow, the second end may be open or closed.
The second string assembly 35 is attached to the second roll 50 and is wound onto the second roll 50 as follows. The first end of second track 30 is attached to the outer surface of second roll 50 wherein: the longitudinal axis of the second track 30 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second roll 50, the first edge of second track 30 is adjacent to the first end of second roll 50, and the second edge of second track 30 is adjacent to the second end of second roll 50. This attachment may be accomplished by any known means such as: weld, epoxy, glue, adhesive, fasteners, bolts, screws, nails, staples, brazing, seam seal, rolled seam, press fit, or any other know means. Then the second string assembly 35 is wound onto or loaded onto the second roll 50 by winding the second string assembly 35 around the second roll 50. The entire second string assembly 35 is wound onto the second roll 50.
In order to properly install extendable and retractable support structure 5, the first roll 40 and the second roll 50 must be pivotally attached and anchored to stable structure. The first roll 40 and the second roll 50 must be pivotally attached or anchored to a stable structure with: the longitudinal axis of the first roll 40 parallel with that of the second roll 50, the first end of the first roll 40 flush or even with the first end of the second roll 50, the second end of the first roll 40 flush or even with the second end of the second roll 50, and the distance between the first roll 40 and the second roll 50 should be about equal to: the height of each trapezoid prism link 10 plus the width of first track 20 plus the width of second track 30. This separation distance is required for the trapezoidal prism links 10 on first track 20 to properly interlock or weave between for the trapezoidal prism links 10 on second track 30. The first end and the second end of the first roll 40 are each pivotally attached and anchored to a stable structure. This stable structure may be the framework of a building, living structure, vessel, boat, submarine, airplane, helicopter, aircraft, spaceship, or any other stable structure or framework. The first end and the second end of the second roll 50 are each pivotally attached and anchored to a stable structure. This stable structure may be the framework of a building, living structure, vessel, boat, submarine, airplane, helicopter, aircraft, spaceship, or any other stable structure or framework. First roll 40 and second roll 50 must be pivotally attached so that each of these roll may unwind to extend the extendable and retractable support structure 5 and wind back up to retract the extendable and retractable support structure 5. First roll 40 and second roll 50 must be pivotally attached however this pivotal attachment must be sturdy and strong to prevent any translational movement of the first roll 40 and second roll 50 as they are winding and unwinding. First roll 40 and second roll 50 must be able to rotate but the rolls must not be able to move up, down, or side to side because any translational movement would not allow the trapezoidal prism links 10 on first track 20 to properly interlock or weave between for the trapezoidal prism links 10 on second track 30.
In best mode, the first roll 40 has a first axle that is a rod or spindle along the longitudinal axis of first roll 40. The first axle has a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis that is parallel and coincident with that of first roll 40. First axle is rigidly attached to first roll 40. The first end of the first axle is pivotally attached to the stable structure and the second end of the first axle is pivotally attached to the stable structure. In best mode, the first or the second end of the first axle is rigidly attached to a motor that drives the first axle to rotate in order to wind and unwind the first string assembly 25 on the first roll 40. The motor may be any known type of motor such as: electric, internal combustion, steam, linear, magnetic, or any other known type of motor.
Alternately, the first roll 40 may have a first half axle and a second half axle. First half axle has a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis that is parallel and coincident with that of first roll 40. Second half axle has a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis that is parallel and coincident with that of first roll 40. The second end of the first half axle is rigidly attached to the first end of the first roll 40. The first end of the first half axle is pivotally attached to the stable structure. The first end of the second half axle is rigidly attached to the second end of the first roll 40. The second end of the second half axle is pivotally attached to the stable structure. In this mode, the first end of the first half axle or second end of the second half axle may be rigidly attached to a motor that drives the first axle to rotate in order to wind and unwind the first string assembly 25 on the first roll 40. The motor may be any known type of motor such as: electric, internal combustion, steam, linear, magnetic, or any other known type of motor.
In best mode, the second roll 50 has a second axle that is a rod or spindle along the longitudinal axis of second roll 50. The second axle has a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis that is parallel and coincident with that of second roll 50. Second axle is rigidly attached to second roll 50. The first end of the second axle is pivotally attached to the stable structure and the second end of the second axle is pivotally attached to the stable structure. In best mode, the first or second end of the second axle is rigidly attached to a motor that drives the second axle to rotate in order to wind and unwind the second string assembly 35 on the second roll 50. The motor may be any known type of motor such as: electric, internal combustion, steam, linear, magnetic, or any other known type of motor.
Alternately, the second roll 50 may have a first half axle and a second half axle. First half axle has a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis that is parallel and coincident with that of second roll 50. Second half axle has a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis that is parallel and coincident with that of second roll 50. The second end of the first half axle is rigidly attached to the first end of the second roll 50. The first end of the first half axle is pivotally attached to the stable structure. The first end of the second half axle is rigidly attached to the second end of the second roll 50. The second end of the second half axle is pivotally attached to the stable structure. In this mode, the first end of the first half axle or second end of the second half axle may be rigidly attached to a motor that drives the first axle to rotate in order to wind and unwind the second string assembly 55 on the second roll 50. The motor may be any known type of motor such as: electric, internal combustion, steam, linear, magnetic, or any other known type of motor.
The first string assembly 25 interlocks or weaves with the second string assembly 35 to create and extend the extendable and retractable support structure 5 as follows. The first roll 40 unwinds by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that unwinds the second end of the first track 20 from the first roll 40. In unison with the rotation of the first roll 40, the second roll 50 unwinds by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that unwinds the second end of the second track 30 from the second roll 50. This unwinding of the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 in unison causes the first surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 to mate with or press against the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 and the second surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 to mate with or press against the first surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25, except for the first surface of the first trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 which does not press against another trapezoidal prism link 10 because it is the first trapezoidal prism link 10 on the extendable and retractable support structure 5 with no adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10. This process occurs for every trapezoidal prism link 10, one at a time, starting with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the second string assembly 35 and ending with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the second string assembly 35, at which point the extendable and retractable support structure 5 is fully extended. The first surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 presses against the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 and vice versa because of the trapezoidal shape of the trapezoidal prism links 10. This shape causes each trapezoidal prism link 10 to function as a wedge between the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 to push against the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 with enough pressure or force to rigidly hold the three trapezoidal prism links 10 together. This extension and locking process occurs between every trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 to yield an exceptional strong and rigid structure that does not require any other support other than the support and attachment of the first string assembly 25 to the first roll 40 and second string assembly 35 to the second roll 50.
The first string assembly 25 unlocks or unweaves with the second string assembly 35 to disassemble and retract the extendable and retractable support structure 5 as follows. The first roll 40 winds in by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that winds up the second end of the first track 20 onto the first roll 40. In unison with the rotation of the first roll 40, the second roll 50 winds in by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that winds up the second end of the second track 30 onto the second roll 50. This winding of the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 in unison causes the first surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 to pull away from the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 and the second surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 to pull away from the first surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25. This process occurs for every trapezoidal prism link 10, one at a time, starting with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the second string assembly 35 and ending with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the second string assembly 35, at which point the extendable and retractable support structure 5 is fully retracted. The first surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10 may pull away from the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 without obstruction because of the trapezoidal shape of the trapezoidal prism links 10. This shape causes each trapezoidal prism link 10 to have clearance between the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 to remove or dislodge itself from between the pressurized position between the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links on the opposite string assembly. This retraction and unlocking process occurs between every trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 to fully retract the extendable and retractable support structure 5.
In best mode, the second end of the first track 20 is attached to the second end of the second track 30 so that first track 20 and second track 30 form one continuous track as depicted. In best mode, first track 20 and second track 30 are integral and continuous as depicted. In best mode, first track 20 and second track 30 are one continuous piece of flexible material as depicted. In this configuration, during extension of the extendable and retractable support structure 5, the first trapezoidal prism link on the first string assembly can more easily interlock or weave with the first trapezoidal prism link on the second string assembly 35, wherein the connection between the second end of the first track and the second end of the second track 30 actually helps pull the first trapezoidal prism link on the first string assembly 25 into place and then pulls first trapezoidal prism link on the second string assembly 35 in place so that the second surface of the first trapezoidal prism link on the first string assembly 25 nicely interlocks or weaves with the first surface the first trapezoidal prism link on the second string assembly 35. In this mode, the distance between the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the first track 20 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the second track 30 is the width of the lower surface plus the width of the first surface of each trapezoidal prism link 10.
In other embodiments, extendable and retractable support structure 5 comprises: a plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60; a first track 20; a second track 30; a first roll 40; and a second roll 50. A plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is attached to the first track 20 to make a first string assembly 25. First string assembly 25 is wound or winded onto a first roll 40 and thereby attached to first roll 40. A plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is attached to the second track 30 to make a second string assembly 35. Second string assembly 35 is wound onto a second roll 50 and thereby attached to second roll 50. First roll 40 with attached first string assembly 25 and second roll 50 with attached second string assembly 35 work together in tandem to unwind or uncoil in order to extend the structure and wind in or coil in order to retract the structure. As the first and second rolls 40,50 unwind or uncoil, the first string assembly 25 interlocks, weaves, mates, or attaches to the second string assembly 35 to create the extended structure. The extended structure is not supported on the extended end or anywhere in the middle. The extended structure is only supported by attachment to rolls 40,50 with interlocking attachment between each trapezoidal prism link 10 on first string assembly 25 and each trapezoidal prism link 10 on second string assembly 35. Thus, the extended structure extends out from the first and second rolls 40,50 to essentially be suspended in mid-air without any other support. As discussed below, this is possible because of the special interlocking attachment mechanism between adjacent track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 on first and second string assemblies 25,35. These embodiments are depicted in FIGS. 41-50,61-110, and 131-140. These embodiments allow for increased rigidity in the extendable and retractable support structure 5.
Each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 has an upper planar member 64 and one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62.
Upper planar member 64 is a rigid rectangular planar member with a first edge, a second edge, an upper surface, a lower surface, a first end, a second end, a thickness, a width, a length, and a longitudinal axis. Upper planar member 64 may be solid as depicted in FIGS. 61-80,101-110, and 131-140 . Upper planar member 64 may be hollow in the center as depicted in FIGS. 41-50 and 81-100 . The upper planar member 64 provides increased rigidity in the extendable and retractable support structure 5 over the embodiments that do not have the upper planar member. The first edge of each upper planar member 64 is the long edge of the rigid rectangular planar member that is adjacent to the first surface of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62. The second edge of each upper planar member 64 is the long edge of the rigid rectangular planar member that is adjacent to the second surface of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62. The upper surface of each upper planar member 64 is a rectangular planar surface that is opposite from each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62. The lower surface of each upper planar member 64 is a rectangular planar surface that is adjacent to each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62. The first end of each upper planar member 64 is the short edge of the rigid rectangular planar member that is adjacent to the first end of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62. The second end of each upper planar member 64 is the short edge of the rigid rectangular planar member that is adjacent to the second end of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62.
Each upper planar member may alternately have a bottom lap joint 72 and a top lap joint 74. Bottom lap joint 72 is a rectangular void removed from the upper surface of the first or second edge of upper planar member 64 leaving a bottom ledge or step on the lower surface as depicted. Top lap joint 74 is a rectangular void removed from the lower surface of the first or second edge of upper planar member 64 leaving a top ledge or step on the upper surface as depicted.
If the bottom lap joint 72 is on the first edge, then the top lap joint 74 be on the second edge, and vice versa. Bottom lap joint 72 functions to mate with top lap joint 74, and vice versa, to make a typical lap joint, as two adjacent integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 are interlocked or weaved together. This mode is depicted in FIGS. 81-90 .
Each of one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is a rigid Isosceles trapezoidal prism shaped member. An isosceles trapezoidal prism is a six sided prism or polyhedron made of two trapezoids that are joined together by four rectangles. Further each of two trapezoids is a convex Isosceles trapezoid. A convex Isosceles trapezoid is a trapezoid with a line of symmetry bisecting one pair of opposite sides where both sides are mirror images of each other. Alternatively, a convex Isosceles trapezoid can be defined as a trapezoid in which both legs and both base angles are of the same measure. Each trapezoidal prism link 10 must be an Isosceles trapezoidal prism shaped member in order to properly and rigidly interlock or weave together with adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10. In other words, both ends of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 must be exactly the same shape so that one end of one trapezoidal prism link 10 may interlock with or weave with the other end of another trapezoidal prism link 10 as discussed below.
Each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 has a first surface, a second surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, a first end, a second end, a height, an overall width, a length, and a longitudinal axis. The first end of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is an Isosceles trapezoid shaped planar surface. The second end of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is an Isosceles trapezoid shaped planar surface. Each Isosceles trapezoid shaped planar surface has a short edge, a long edge, a first diagonal edge, and a second diagonal edge. The first end of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is opposite from the second end of each trapezoidal prism link. The first end and the second end are parallel with each other. The longitudinal axis of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 runs from the first end to the second end of the integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 and is perpendicular to the first end and to the second end of the integrated trapezoidal prism link 62. The upper surface of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is a rectangular planar surface that is adjacent to the short edge of the first end and adjacent to the short edge of the second end, lying in between the short edges of the first and second ends. The upper surface has a length and a width. The lower surface of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is a rectangular planar surface that is adjacent to the long edge of the first end and adjacent to the long edge of the second end, lying in between the long edges of the first and second ends. The lower surface has a length and a width. The upper surface and the lower surface are parallel with each other. The first surface is a rectangular planar surface that is adjacent to the first diagonal edge of the first end and adjacent to first diagonal edge of the second end, lying in between the first diagonal edges of the first and second ends. The second surface is a rectangular planar surface that is adjacent to the second diagonal edge of the first end and adjacent to second diagonal edge of the second end, lying in between the second diagonal edges of the first and second ends. The first surface of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is the leading surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 as the first and second rolls 40,50 are unwound as discussed below. The second surface of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is the trailing surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 as the first and second rolls 40,50 are unwound as discussed below. The first and second surfaces are not parallel with each other wherein these surfaces form an obtuse angle between these members. The height of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is the perpendicular distance between the lower surface to the upper surface of the integrated trapezoidal prism link 62. The overall width of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is the width of the lower surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62. The length of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is the length of the lower surface or the upper surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 which are the same.
Each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 may be solid as depicted in FIGS. 41-50, 61-70 and 81-100 .
Alternately, each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 may be hollow as depicted in FIGS. 71-80,101-110, and 131-140 , wherein the first and second ends of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 are deleted or nonexistent to leave an open of hollow interior.
Each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 may alternately have a bottom groove 70. Bottom groove 70 is a rectangular shaped void in the bottom surface. Bottom groove 70 has a length, a width, and a longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis of bottom groove 70 is parallel with that of the integrated trapezoidal prism link 62. Bottom groove breaks out of the first end and the second end of the integrated trapezoidal prism link. The width of bottom groove is the same or slightly larger than that of upper planar member 64 to that upper planar member makes a slip fit or a press fit within the bottom groove 70. Along with upper planar member 64, bottom groove 70 functions to increase the rigidity of the interlocked connection between each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62. This mode is depicted in FIGS. 61-80 and 111-120 .
Each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 may alternately have a mortise 76 and a tenon 78. Mortise 76 is a recess, void, or hole in the first or second surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 as depicted. Tenon 78 is a raised area, protrusion, or knob in the first or second surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 as depicted. If the tenon 78 is on the first surface, then the mortise 76 must be on the second surface, and vice versa. Tenon 78 functions to mate with mortise 76, and vice versa, to make a typical mortise and tenon joint as two adjacent integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 are interlocked or weaved together. This mode is depicted in FIGS. 131-140 .
Each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 is rigidly attached to the upper planar member 64. In order to make each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60, the upper surface of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is rigidly attached to the lower surface of upper planar member 64 so that the longitudinal axis of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is parallel with that of the of upper planar member 64. Rigid attachment may be accomplished by any known means. In best mode, the upper surface of each one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 is integral to upper planar member 64 wherein these members are made from the same solid piece of material.
In the case of a linear extendable and retractable support structure 5, such as a post, stud, rafter, beam, or similar, each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 has one integrated trapezoidal prism links 62, as depicted in FIGS. 61-80 and 131-140 .
In the case of a two-dimensional extendable and retractable support structure 5, such as a floor, ceiling, wall, platform, deck, or similar, each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 has more than one integrated trapezoidal prism links 62, as depicted in FIGS. 41-50 and 81-110 .
In these embodiments, the first string assembly 25 is created by attaching a plurality track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 to the first track 20. A plurality of plurality track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is attached to the first track 20 to yield a first string assembly 25. First string assembly 25 has a first end, a second end, a first edge, a second edge, an inner surface, an outer surface, a width, a length, and a longitudinal axis that coincide and correspond with those from the first track 20. Each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is tightly spaced along the first track 20 wherein the first edge of the upper planar member 64 of one track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is placed up against the second edge of the upper planar member 64 of the adjacent track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 and vice versa so that the first edge of one upper planar member 64 is contiguous with and essentially touching the second edge of upper planar member 64 and vice versa along the whole first string assembly 25. This spacing is required for the integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 on the first string assembly 25 to properly interlock and weave with the integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 on the second string assembly 35 and vice versa. To attach each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 to first track 20, the upper surface of each upper planar member 64 is attached to the inner surface of first track 20 so that the longitudinal axis of each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first track 20, the first end of each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is flush with the first edge of first track 20, and the second end of each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is flush with the second edge of first track 20. This attachment may be accomplished by any known means such as: weld, epoxy, glue, adhesive, fasteners, bolts, screws, nails, staples, brazing, seam seal, rolled seam, press fit, or any other know means. In best mode, this attachment is accomplished by a flexible means in which each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 remains attached to the first track 20 however this attachment still allows for some degree of play or movement between each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 and the first track 20. This flexibility or play allows for easier winding and unwinding of the first string assembly 25 onto first roll 40. Also, this flexibility or play allows for easier engagement or interlocking or weaving of each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 on the first string assembly 25 with each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 on the second string assembly 35.
In these embodiments, the second string assembly 35 is created by attaching a plurality track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 to the second track 30. A plurality of plurality track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is attached to the second track 30 to yield a second string assembly 35. Second string assembly 35 has a first end, a second end, a first edge, a second edge, an inner surface, an outer surface, a width, a length, and a longitudinal axis that coincide and correspond with those from the second track 30. Each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is tightly spaced along the second track 30 wherein the first edge of the upper planar member 64 of one track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is placed up against the second edge of the upper planar member 64 of the adjacent track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 and vice versa so that the first edge of one upper planar member 64 is contiguous with and essentially touching the second edge of upper planar member 64 and vice versa along the whole second string assembly 35. This spacing is required for the integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 on the second string assembly 35 to properly interlock and weave with the integrated trapezoidal prism links 62 on the first string assembly 25 and vice versa. To attach each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 to second track 30, the upper surface of each upper planar member 64 is attached to the inner surface of second track 30 so that the longitudinal axis of each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second track 30, the first end of each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is flush with the first edge of second track 30, and the second end of each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is flush with the second edge of second track 30. This attachment may be accomplished by any known means such as: weld, epoxy, glue, adhesive, fasteners, bolts, screws, nails, staples, brazing, seam seal, rolled seam, press fit, or any other know means. In best mode, this attachment is accomplished by a flexible means in which each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 remains attached to the second track 30 however this attachment still allows for some degree of play or movement between each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 and the second track 30. This flexibility or play allows for easier winding and unwinding of the second string assembly 35 onto second roll 50. Also, this flexibility or play allows for easier engagement or interlocking or weaving of each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 on the second string assembly 35 with each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 on the first string assembly 25.
The first string assembly 25 is attached to the first roll 40 and is wound onto the first roll 40 as follows. The first end of first track 20 is attached to the outer surface of first roll 40 wherein: the longitudinal axis of the first track 20 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first roll 40, the first edge of first track 20 is adjacent to the first end of first roll 40, and the second edge of first track 20 is adjacent to the second end of first roll 40. This attachment may be accomplished by any known means such as: weld, epoxy, glue, adhesive, fasteners, bolts, screws, nails, staples, brazing, seam seal, rolled seam, press fit, or any other know means. Then the first string assembly 25 is wound onto or loaded onto the first roll 40 by winding the first string assembly 25 around the first roll 40. The entire first string assembly 25 is wound onto the first roll 40.
The second string assembly 35 is attached to the second roll 50 and is wound onto the second roll 50 as follows. The first end of second track 30 is attached to the outer surface of second roll 50 wherein: the longitudinal axis of the second track 30 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second roll 50, the first edge of second track 30 is adjacent to the first end of second roll 50, and the second edge of second track 30 is adjacent to the second end of second roll 50. This attachment may be accomplished by any known means such as: weld, epoxy, glue, adhesive, fasteners, bolts, screws, nails, staples, brazing, seam seal, rolled seam, press fit, or any other know means. Then the second string assembly 35 is wound onto or loaded onto the second roll 50 by winding the second string assembly 35 around the second roll 50. The entire second string assembly 35 is wound onto the second roll 50.
The first string assembly 25 interlocks or weaves with the second string assembly 35 to create and extend the extendable and retractable support structure 5 as follows. The first roll 40 unwinds by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that unwinds the second end of the first track 20 from the first roll 40. In unison with the rotation of the first roll 40, the second roll 50 unwinds by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that unwinds the second end of the second track 30 from the second roll 50. This unwinding of the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 in unison causes the first surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 on the first string assembly 25 to mate with or press against the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 and the second surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 on the second string assembly 35 to mate with or press against the first surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25, except for the first surface of the first trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 which does not press against another trapezoidal prism link 10 because it is the first trapezoidal prism link 10 on the extendable and retractable support structure 5 with no adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10. This process occurs for every trapezoidal prism link 10, one at a time, starting with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the second string assembly 35 and ending with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the second string assembly 35, at which point the extendable and retractable support structure 5 is fully extended. The first surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 presses against the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 and vice versa because of the trapezoidal shape of the trapezoidal prism links 10. This shape causes each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 to function as a wedge between the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 to push against the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 with enough pressure or force to rigidly hold the three trapezoidal prism links 10 together. This extension and locking process occurs between every trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 to yield an exceptional strong and rigid structure that does not require any other support other than the support and attachment of the first string assembly 25 to the first roll 40 and second string assembly 35 to the second roll 50.
The first string assembly 25 unlocks or unweaves with the second string assembly 35 to disassemble and retract the extendable and retractable support structure 5 as follows. The first roll 40 winds in by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that winds up the second end of the first track 20 onto the first roll 40. In unison with the rotation of the first roll 40, the second roll 50 winds in by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that winds up the second end of the second track 30 onto the second roll 50. This winding of the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 in unison causes the first surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 on the first string assembly 25 to pull away from the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 and the second surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 on the second string assembly 35 to pull away from the first surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25. This process occurs for every trapezoidal prism link 10, one at a time, starting with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the second string assembly 35 and ending with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the second string assembly 35, at which point the extendable and retractable support structure 5 is fully retracted. The first surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 may pull away from the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 without obstruction because of the trapezoidal shape of the trapezoidal prism links 10. This shape causes each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 to have clearance between the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 to remove or dislodge itself from between the pressurized position between the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links on the opposite string assembly. This retraction and unlocking process occurs between every trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 to fully retract the extendable and retractable support structure 5.
In best mode, the second end of the first track 20 is attached to the second end of the second track 30 so that first track 20 and second track 30 form one continuous track as depicted. In best mode, first track 20 and second track 30 are integral and continuous as depicted. In best mode, first track 20 and second track 30 are one continuous piece of flexible material as depicted. In this configuration, during extension of the extendable and retractable support structure 5, the first trapezoidal prism link on the first string assembly 25 can more easily interlock or weave with the first trapezoidal prism link on the second string assembly 35, wherein the connection between the second end of the first track and the second end of the second track 30 actually helps pull the first trapezoidal prism link on the first string assembly 25 into place and then pulls first trapezoidal prism link on the second string assembly 35 in place so that the second surface of the first trapezoidal prism link on the first string assembly 25 nicely interlocks or weaves with the first surface the first trapezoidal prism link on the second string assembly 35. In this mode, the distance between the track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 on the second end of the first track 20 and the track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 on the second end of the second track 30 is the width of the lower surface plus the width of the first surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62.
In other embodiments, extendable and retractable support structure 5 comprises: a plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60; a plurality of hinge pins 80; a first roll 40; and a second roll 50. A plurality of connected and hinged track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is attached to and wound or winded onto a first roll 40 and thereby attached to first roll 40. A plurality of connected and hinged track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is attached to and wound onto a second roll 50 and thereby attached to second roll 50. First roll 40 and second roll 50 work together in tandem to unwind or uncoil in order to extend the structure and wind in or coil in in order to retract the structure. As the first and second rolls 40,50 unwind or uncoil, the two rolls of connected and hinged track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 interlock, weave, mate, or attach to create the extended structure. The extended structure is not supported on the extended end or anywhere in the middle. The extended structure is only supported by attachment to rolls 40,50. Thus, the extended structure extends out from the first and second rolls 40,50 to essentially be suspended in mid-air without any other support. As discussed below, this is possible because of the special interlocking attachment mechanism between adjacent track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60. These embodiments are depicted in FIGS. 61-70 and 91-110 . These embodiments do not include a first track 20 or a second track 30 because each track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 is connected by a hinge pin 80 as discussed below.
In these embodiments, the upper planar member 64 on each track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 further comprises one or more hinge knuckles 66. A hinge knuckle 66 is a rigid rectangular shaped tab, protrusion, protuberance on the first edge and second edge of upper planar member 64. Each hinge knuckle 66 has a width, a depth, a thickness, and a longitudinal axis that runs along the width dimension. The thickness of hinge knuckle 66 is equivalent to that of upper planar member 64. Hinge knuckles 66 on the first edge of upper planar member 64 mate with hinge knuckles 66 on the second edge of upper planar member 64. There must be an even number of hinge knuckles 66 on the first edge and an odd number of hinge knuckles 66 on the send edge or vice versa for proper mating between the hinge knuckles 66. Hinge knuckles 66 must be separated by a distance that is the width of each hinge knuckles 66 for proper mating between the hinge knuckles 66. The width of each hinge knuckle 66 must make a slip fit between two adjacent hinge knuckles 66 for proper mating between the hinge knuckles 66.
Each hinge knuckle 66 has a pin hole 68. Pin hole 68 is a cylindrical hole with an inner diameter and a longitudinal axis. Pin hole 68 runs completely through each hinge knuckle 66. The longitudinal axis of pin hole 68 is parallel with that of hinge knuckle 66.
Each of the plurality of hinge pins 80 is a hinge pin that is a solid rigid cylindrical member with a length, an outer diameter, and a longitudinal axis. The outer diameter of hinge pin 80 is sized to make a slip fit or a press fit with the inner diameter of pin hole 68. The length of hinge pin 80 is equal to the length of upper planar member 64.
In these modes, the plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 are pivotally attached to each other through a hinged connection created by hinge knuckles 66 on the first edge of the upper planar member 64 of one track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 mating with hinge knuckles 66 on the second edge of the upper planar member 64 of another track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60, and vice versa, and then driving a hinge pin 80 through the mated hinge knuckles 66 to create a hinge connection between these members. In this way, a first string assembly 25 and a second string assembly 35 are created without using a first track 20 or a second track 30. In these modes, the track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links 60 are connected by hinge pins 80. One hinge pin 80 is required for each pivotal connection. These embodiments may have an advantage over embodiments with a first track 20 and a second track 30 because these embodiment have less components, are a simpler design, and are easier to assemble.
The first string assembly 25 is attached to the first roll 40 and is wound onto the first roll 40 as follows. The first end of the first string assembly 25 is attached to the outer surface of first roll 40 wherein: the longitudinal axis of the first string assembly 25 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the first roll 40, the first edge of first string assembly 25 is adjacent to the first end of first roll 40, and the second edge of first string assembly 25 is adjacent to the second end of first roll 40. This attachment may be accomplished by any known means such as: weld, epoxy, glue, adhesive, fasteners, bolts, screws, nails, staples, brazing, seam seal, rolled seam, press fit, or any other know means. Then the first string assembly 25 is wound onto or loaded onto the first roll 40 by winding the first string assembly 25 around the first roll 40. The entire first string assembly 25 is wound onto the first roll 40.
The second string assembly 35 is attached to the second roll 50 and is wound onto the second roll 50 as follows. The first end of the second string assembly 35 is attached to the outer surface of second roll 50 wherein: the longitudinal axis of the second string assembly 35 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the second roll 50, the first edge of second string assembly 35 is adjacent to the first end of second roll 50, and the second edge of second string assembly 35 is adjacent to the second end of second roll 50. This attachment may be accomplished by any known means such as: weld, epoxy, glue, adhesive, fasteners, bolts, screws, nails, staples, brazing, seam seal, rolled seam, press fit, or any other know means. Then the second string assembly 35 is wound onto or loaded onto the second roll 50 by winding the second string assembly 35 around the second roll 50. The entire second string assembly 35 is wound onto the second roll 50.
The first string assembly 25 interlocks or weaves with the second string assembly 35 to create and extend the extendable and retractable support structure 5 as follows. The first roll 40 unwinds by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that unwinds the second end of the first string assembly 25 from the first roll 40. In unison with the rotation of the first roll 40, the second roll 50 unwinds by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that unwinds the second end of the second string assembly 25 from the second roll 50. This unwinding of the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 in unison causes the first surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 on the first string assembly 25 to mate with or press against the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 and the second surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 on the second string assembly 35 to mate with or press against the first surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25, except for the first surface of the first trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 which does not press against another trapezoidal prism link 10 because it is the first trapezoidal prism link 10 on the extendable and retractable support structure 5 with no adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10. This process occurs for every trapezoidal prism link 10, one at a time, starting with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the second string assembly 35 and ending with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the second string assembly 35, at which point the extendable and retractable support structure 5 is fully extended. The first surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 presses against the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 and vice versa because of the trapezoidal shape of the trapezoidal prism links 10. This shape causes each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 to function as a wedge between the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 to push against the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 with enough pressure or force to rigidly hold the three trapezoidal prism links 10 together. This extension and locking process occurs between every trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 to yield an exceptional strong and rigid structure that does not require any other support other than the support and attachment of the first string assembly 25 to the first roll 40 and second string assembly 35 to the second roll 50.
The first string assembly 25 unlocks or unweaves with the second string assembly 35 to disassemble and retract the extendable and retractable support structure 5 as follows. The first roll 40 winds in by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that winds up the second end of the first string assembly 35 onto the first roll 40. In unison with the rotation of the first roll 40, the second roll 50 winds in by rotating around its longitudinal axis in the direction that winds up the second end of the second string assembly 35 onto the second roll 50. This winding of the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 in unison causes the first surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 on the first string assembly 25 to pull away from the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second string assembly 35 and the second surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 on the second string assembly 35 to pull away from the first surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25. This process occurs for every trapezoidal prism link 10, one at a time, starting with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first end of the second string assembly 35 and ending with the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the first string assembly 25 and the trapezoidal prism link 10 on the second end of the second string assembly 35, at which point the extendable and retractable support structure 5 is fully retracted. The first surface of each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 may pull away from the second surface of the adjacent trapezoidal prism link 10 without obstruction because of the trapezoidal shape of the trapezoidal prism links 10. This shape causes each integrated trapezoidal prism link 62 to have clearance between the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links 10 to remove or dislodge itself from between the pressurized position between the two adjacent trapezoidal prism links on the opposite string assembly. This retraction and unlocking process occurs between every trapezoidal prism link 10 on the first string assembly 25 and the second string assembly 35 to fully retract the extendable and retractable support structure 5.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An extendable and retractable support structure comprising: a plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10]; a first track [20]; a second track [30]; a first roll [40]; and a second roll [50], wherein

each of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] is a rigid Isosceles trapezoidal prism shaped member, with a first surface, a second surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, a first end, a second end, a height, an overall width, a length, and a longitudinal axis,

said longitudinal axis of each of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] runs from said first end of each of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] to said second of each of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] and is perpendicular to said first end of each of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] to said second end of each of each of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10],

said first track [20] is a rectangular strip of flexible material or a rectangular sheet of flexible material with a first end, a second end, a first edge, a second edge, an inner surface, an outer surface, a width,

a length, a thickness, and a longitudinal axis,

said second track [30] is a rectangular strip of flexible material or a sheet of flexible material with a first end, a second end, a first edge, a second edge, an inner surface, an outer surface, a width, a length, a thickness, and a longitudinal axis,

a first number of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] is attached to said first track [20] wherein each of said first number of said plurality trapezoidal prism links [10] is evenly spaced along said first track [20] by a distance that is said overall width of each of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10], with said upper surface of each of said first number of said trapezoidal prism links [10] attached to said inner surface of said first track [20], with said longitudinal axis of each of said first number of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said first track [20], said first end of each of said first number of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] is flush with said first edge of said first track [20], and said second end of each of said first number of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] is flush with said second edge of said first track [20],

a second number of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] is attached to said second track [30] wherein each of said second number of said plurality trapezoidal prism links [10] is evenly spaced along said second track [30] by a distance that is said overall width of each of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10], with said upper surface of each of said second number of said trapezoidal prism links [10] attached to said inner surface of said second track [30], with said longitudinal axis of each of said second number of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] perpendicular to said longitudinal axis of said second track [30], said first end of each of said second number of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] is flush with said first edge of said second track [30], and said second end of each of said second number of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] is flush with said second edge of said second track [30],

said first roll [40] is a rigid roll core or rigid cylindrical member with an outer surface, an inner surface, an inner diameter, an outer diameter, a circumference, a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis,

said second roll [50] is a rigid roll core or rigid cylindrical member with an outer surface, an inner surface, an inner diameter, an outer diameter, a circumference, a first end, a second end, and a longitudinal axis,

said first track [20], with said first number of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] attached thereto, is attached to and wound onto said first roll [40],

said second track [20], with said second number of said plurality of trapezoidal prism links [10] attached thereto, is attached to and wound onto said second roll [50],

said first roll [40] and second said roll [50] unwind in unison to extend said extendable and retractable support structure, and

said first roll [40] and second said roll [50] wind in in unison to retract said extendable and retractable support structure.

2. An extendable and retractable support structure comprising: a plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60]; a first track [20]; a second track [30]; a first roll [40]; and a second roll [50], wherein

each of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] has an upper planar member [64] and one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [62] attached thereto,

said upper planar member [64] is a rigid rectangular planar member with a first edge, a second edge, an upper surface, a lower surface, a first end, a second end, a thickness, a width, a length, and a longitudinal axis,

each of said one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [62] is a rigid Isosceles trapezoidal prism shaped member with a first surface, a second surface, an upper surface, a lower surface, a first end, a second end, a height, an overall width, a length, and a longitudinal axis,

said longitudinal axis of each of said one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [62] runs from said first end of each of said one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [62] to said second of each of said one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [62] and is perpendicular to said first end of each of said one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [62] to said second end of each of said one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [62],

each of said one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [62] is rigidly attached to said upper planar member [64] wherein said upper surface of each of said one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [62] is rigidly attached to said lower surface of said upper planar member [64] so that said longitudinal axis of each of said one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [62] is parallel with said longitudinal axis of said of upper planar member [64],

said first track [20] is a rectangular strip of flexible material or a rectangular sheet of flexible material with a first end, a second end, a first edge, a second edge, an inner surface, an outer surface, a width, a length, a thickness, and a longitudinal axis,

a first number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] is attached to said first track [20] wherein each of said first number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] is tightly spaced along said first track [20] wherein said first edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said first number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] is contiguous with or placed up against said second edge of said upper planar member [64] of the adjacent said track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] and said second edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said first number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] is contiguous with or placed up against said first edge of said upper planar member [64] of the adjacent said track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60],

a second number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] is attached to said second track [30] wherein each of said second number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] is tightly spaced along said second track [30] wherein said first edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said second number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] is contiguous with or placed up against said second edge of said upper planar member [64] of the adjacent said track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] and said second edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said second number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] is contiguous with or placed up against said first edge of said upper planar member [64] of the adjacent said track section with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60],

3. An extendable and retractable support structure comprising: a plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60]; a plurality of hinge pins [80]; a first roll [40]; and a second roll [50], wherein

said upper planar member [64] further comprises one or more hinge knuckles [66],

each of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] is a rigid rectangular shaped tab, protrusion, protuberance on said first edge and said second edge of said upper planar member [64],

each of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] has a width, a depth, a thickness, and a longitudinal axis that runs along said width dimension,

each of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] has a pin hole [68],

each said pin hole [68] is a cylindrical hole with an inner diameter and a longitudinal axis,

said longitudinal axis of each said pin hole [68] is parallel with said longitudinal axis of each of said one or more hinge knuckles [66],

each of said plurality of hinge pins [80] is a hinge pin that is a solid rigid cylindrical member with a length, an outer diameter, and a longitudinal axis,

said outer diameter of each of said plurality of hinge pins [80] is sized to make a slip fit or a press fit with said inner diameter of said pin hole [68],

said length of each of said plurality of hinge pins [80] is equal to said length of said upper planar member [64],

a first number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] are pivotally attached together through a hinged connection created by one of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] on said first edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said first number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] mating with one of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] on said second edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said first number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] and one of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] on said second edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said first number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] mating with one of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] on said first edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said first number one of plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60], wherein one of said plurality of hinge pins [80] in inserted through said pin holes [68] on said one or more hinge knuckles [66] to create a hinge connection between these members,

a second number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] are pivotally attached together through a hinged connection created by one of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] on said first edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said second number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] mating with one of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] on said second edge of said upper planar member [64] of each said second number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] and one of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] on said second edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said second number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60] mating with one of said one or more hinge knuckles [66] on said first edge of said upper planar member [64] of each of said second number one of plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60], wherein one of said plurality of hinge pins [80] in inserted through said pin holes [68] on said one or more hinge knuckles [66] to create a hinge connection between these members,

said a first number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60], that are pivotally attached together, is attached to and wound onto said first roll [40],

said a second number of said plurality of track sections with one or more integrated trapezoidal prism links [60], that are pivotally attached together, is attached to and wound onto said second roll [50],