WO2023282770A1

WO2023282770A1 - Modular platform and methods of assembly and use

Info

Publication number: WO2023282770A1
Application number: PCT/NZ2022/050091
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jeremy Brayden RAIKES; Timothy Wright
Original assignee: Moddex Nz Limited Partnership
Priority date: 2021-07-09
Filing date: 2022-07-08
Publication date: 2023-01-12
Also published as: GB2622725A; GB202319704D0; AU2022308566A1

Abstract

Described herein is a modular platform with separate leg fixing members or a specific connection detail. The modular platform may comprise, as separate parts, configurable in flat pack form or assembled: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; and load bearing span members. The separate parts may be assembled together toolessly via a connection detail comprising mating dogs and elongated slots. A method of assembling the modular platform and a kit of parts comprising the modular platform are also described. The modular platform may form a platform unit, a ramp unit or a stair unit. The modular platform provides a number of benefits over the art, one advantage being flat pack storage and transport and rapid assembly on-site.

Description

MODULAR PLATFORM AND METHODS OF ASSEMBLY AND USE

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from New Zealand provisional patent application number 778084 dated 9 July 2021 with WIPO DAS code 3441.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Described herein is modular platform and methods of assembly and use. More specifically, a modular platform and associated ramp and stair modules are described along with their method of assembly and use.

BACKGROUND ART

Existing prior art platforms are typically manufactured as bespoke arrangements using posts and decking. This is type of platform is slow to manufacture and install, and can take considerable skill to manufacture and install correctly.

Often platforms are a final feature to a new build and hence, installation of the platforms may be subject to considerable time pressure to be completed so that the new building can be signed off and handed over to the owner (and typically final payment received). Delays in platform construction, even if small, can have significant cost/value implications to the installer, project manager and owner.

Art modular platform or ramp /stair modules are generally only for one aspect e.g. the platform itself, or a step portion, or a ramp portion. They seldom are modular to the extent that the art designs provide a solution to all three key aspects (platform, steps and ramps).

Art modular platform units are also largely off-site prefabricated and pre-built units and hence, are not efficient to transport to a site due to their bulk and size. Further, a key drawback of art units being pre-fabricated off-site is that there may be little flexibility possible in the design, particularly around height above ground. As actual building heights on-site may vary and because platforms are generally height dependent on the actual building opening height, flexibility in platform height can be important or at least useful. A prefabricated unit manufactured off-site is usually made to very precise tolerances that are seldom possible on site, or at least difficult to achieve on-site. Some degree of tolerance at installation may be desirable which is not possible if the parts are constructed off-site in advance of final building construction and platform installation.

It may be useful to provide a modular platform capable of partial manufacture off-site, efficient size and configuration for delivery to a site such as in a flat pack form, and which may be rapidly manufactured on site. It may be useful to allow for a degree of tolerance to suit on-site building height variations.

Further aspects and advantages of the modular platform, method of assembly and kit of parts will become apparent from the ensuing description that is given by way of example only.

SUMMARY

Described herein is a modular platform with separate leg fixing members or a specific connection detail. A toolless modular platform connection is also described along with methods of assembly of the modular platform and a kit of parts comprising the modular platform.

In a first aspect there is provided a modular platform, the modular platform comprising, as separate parts, configured in flat pack form: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; load bearing span members.

In a second aspect there is provided a modular platform, the modular platform when assembled comprising: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; the elongated end and sides section linked to leg fixing members via a connection detail; legs linked to the leg fixing members via the connection detail; load bearing span members placed on the side and end sections.

In a third aspect, there is provided a modular platform comprising, as separate parts: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; and wherein the separate parts are assembled together toolessly via a connection detail comprising mating dogs and elongated slots.

In a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a modular platform, the method comprising the steps of: selecting a modular platform comprising: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; load bearing span members; and linking together the elongated side sections and the elongated end sections to the leg fixing members; linking together the legs and the leg fixing members; locating and linking the load bearing span members across the elongated end sections and elongated side sections.

In a fifth aspect, there is provided a kit of parts comprising: a modular platform, the modular platform comprising, as separate parts, configured in flat pack form: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; load bearing span members; and a set of assembly instructions.

The above modular platform provides a number of benefits over the art described further below, one advantage being flat pack storage and transport and rapid assembly on-site.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further aspects of the modular platforms, method of assembly and kit of parts will become apparent from the following description that is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 illustrates an assembled perspective view of one embodiment of the modular platform including a platform unit, two ramp units and two stair units, all linked as one modular platform;

Figure 2 illustrates the above embodiment as viewed from above in a plan elevation; Figure 3 illustrates the above embodiment as viewed in front elevation;

Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of an assembled platform unit alone;

Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of detail C of Figure 4 with the span members 6 removed;

Figure 6 illustrates a plan view of the platform unit of Figure 4 showing various subsequent cross-section described in the Figures below;

Figure 7 illustrates a side elevation showing an end of the platform unit of Figure 4;

Figure 8 illustrates a front elevation of the platform unit of Figure 4;

Figure 9 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the platform unit of Figure 4;

Figure 10 illustrates a detail cross-section view along section AA in Figure 6 of an embodiment of the leg assembly;

Figure 11 illustrates a detail cross-section view along section BB in Figure 6 of an embodiment of the leg assembly;

Figure 12 illustrates a detail cross-section view along section DD in Figure 6 of an embodiment of the leg fixing member to side sections assembly; Figure 13 illustrates a detail cross-section view along section EE in Figure 6 of an embodiment of the leg fixing member to side sections assembly;

Figure 14 illustrates a view from above of the two ramp units of Figure 1;

Figure 15 illustrates front elevation view of the two ramp units of Figure 1;

Figure 16 illustrates a front elevation view of one embodiment of a stair unit; Figure 17 illustrates a front elevation view of a further embodiment of a stair unit;

Figure 18 illustrates a front elevation view of a further embodiment of a stair unit;

Figure 19 illustrates a front elevation view of a further embodiment of a stair unit;

Figure 20 illustrates a front elevation view of a further embodiment of a stair unit;

Figure 21 illustrates a front elevation view of a further embodiment of a stair unit; Figure 22 illustrates a front elevation view of one embodiment of a stair nose ending;

Figure 23 illustrates a front elevation view of a further embodiment of a stair nose ending;

Figure 24 illustrates a front elevation view of a further embodiment of a stair nose ending;

Figure 25 illustrates a front elevation view of a further embodiment of a stair nose ending; Figure 26 illustrates a front elevation view of a further embodiment of a stair nose ending; and

Figure 27 illustrates a front elevation view of a further embodiment of a stair nose ending;

Figure 28 illustrates an example of a ramp unit comprising a separate lip;

Figure 29 illustrates a further assembled modular platform like Figure 1 but also comprising a handrail;

Figure 30 illustrates a further assembled modular platform comprising ramp units, platform units and a single stair unit; and,

Figure 31 illustrates a further assembled modular platform comprising multiple ramp units, platform units and a step unit and lip attached.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As noted above, described herein is a modular platform with separate leg fixing members or a specific connection detail. A toolless modular platform connection is also described along with methods of assembly of the modular platform and a kit of parts comprising the modular platform.

For the purposes of this specification, the term 'about' or 'approximately' and grammatical variations thereof mean a quantity, level, degree, value, number, frequency, percentage, dimension, size, amount, weight or length that varies by as much as 30, 25, 20, 15, 10, 9, 8, 7,

6, 5, 4, 3, 2, or 1% to a reference quantity, level, degree, value, number, frequency, percentage, dimension, size, amount, weight or length.

The term 'substantially' or grammatical variations thereof refers to at least about 50%, for example 75%, 85%, 95% or 98%.

The term 'comprise¹ and grammatical variations thereof shall have an inclusive meaning - i.e. that it will be taken to mean an inclusion of not only the listed components it directly references, but also other non-specified components or elements. The term 'modular platform' and grammatical variations thereof refers to a set of separate parts that when assembled form a portion of a wider platform structure.

The term 'unit' and grammatical variations thereof refers to a part of the modular platform being a platform unit, a stair unit or a ramp unit. Each unit when assembled may be substantially flat or substantially angled on an upper surface.

The term 'flat pack' and grammatical variations thereof refers to a substantially flat shape and form with minimal if any air space between parts in the flat form, this flat form being optimised for storage and transport and to minimise void space.

Flat Pack Modular Platform

In a first aspect there is provided a modular platform, the modular platform comprising, as separate parts configured in flat pack form: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; load bearing span members.

Assembled Modular platform and Common Connection Detail

In a second aspect there is provided a modular platform, the modular platform when assembled comprising: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; the elongated end sections elongated side sections linked to leg fixing members via a connection detail; legs linked to the leg fixing members via the connection detail; load bearing span members placed on the side and end sections. Modular platform with Dog/Slot Connection Detail

In a third aspect, there is provided a modular platform comprising, as separate parts: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; and wherein the separate parts are assembled together toolessly via a connection detail comprising mating dogs and elongated slots,

Method of Assembly

In a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of assembling a modular platform, the method comprising the steps of: selecting a modular platform comprising: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; load bearing span members; and linking together the side and the end sections to the leg fixing members; linking together the legs and the leg fixing members; locating and linking the load bearing span members across the linked end sections and side sections.

Kit of Parts

In a fifth aspect, there is provided a kit of parts comprising: a modular platform, the modular platform comprising as separate parts configured in flat pack form: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; load bearing span members; and a set of assembly instructions. Units

The modular platform may comprise at least one platform unit, and/or at least one stair unit, and/ or at least one ramp unit. The modular platform may comprise combinations of these units e.g. a platform unit and a stair unit, or, in another embodiment, a platform unit and two stair units and two ramp units. Any combination of these units may be used. The units may have common parts and fixtures and therefore may be interchangeable to suit a desired design and configuration.

The units may have a similar structure comprising the items noted above including the elongated end sections, elongated side sections, leg fixing members and/or connection detail, legs, and load bearing span members. These units may be different with respect to the position of the span members i.e. substantially flat or inclined and the leg position relative to the leg fixing member(s) or connection detail. The legs may also differ in leg height corresponding to whether the assembled span members or modular platform top is to be flat or angled.

End and Side Sections

The elongated end and elongated side sections may assemble together to define a generally square to rectangular shape. The assembled square or rectangular shape may be about a substantially horizontal plane in the case of a platform unit or may be at an incline relative to a horizontal plane in the case of a stair unit or ramp unit.

Connection Detail Location

The connection detail between the end and side sections may be located about the section ends and the leg fixing members.

Connection Detail

The connection detail may comprise mating dogs and elongated slots. The connection detail may be the leg fixing member itself or, may be a separate part fixed to the leg fixing member.

End and Side Section Connection Detail

In one embodiment the end and side sections may have dogs configured so that the dog or dogs fit through an elongated slot or slots in each of the leg fixing members and then, through vertical movement, the dog or dogs lock into the elongated slot. The dog and the elongated slot are then interlocked together.

The dogs may point downwards or towards a ground surface so that a load placed on the modular platform urges the side and end sections downward and hence urges the dogs to further interlock with the elongated slot ends.

Optionally, each side or end section may comprise at least two dogs and these dogs may mate with two complementary sized elongated slots in the leg fixing member.

The, or each, elongated slot may have a width that is substantially similar to the width of a dog.

Each elongated slot may have a length that is substantially similar to the length of a dog.

The elongated slot may be orientated in an up/down manner so that the slot longitudinal centre axis extends along a vertical plane when the platform is assembled.

To assemble the modular platform, a dog may be passed through the elongated slot and, the dog and associated section on which the dog is attached, may be moved in the same direction as the dog orientation, up or down, until a dog shoulder abuts an elongated slot end.

The upper surface of the elongated end and side sections when fitted together may define a generally planar surface about a horizontal plane.

The dogs may taper in shape from a relatively narrow end to a relatively thickened base. The narrow end may be sized to be smaller than a complementary elongated slot opening. The relatively thickened base may be sized to interfere with the elongated slot opening. When a load force is applied to the assembled module, the degree of interference between the dog and slot increases cause elastic or plastic deformation and hence tighter locking of the connection detail.

Leg to Leg Fixing Member Connection

The leg fixing members may be configured to mate the legs to the side and/or end sections.

In one embodiment, the leg fixing members may have a box shape that partly or fully encloses one end of the legs and the leg fixing members may be fixed to both the end and the side section about a platform corner when the platform is assembled.

Each leg may connect to a leg fixing member about a first leg end, on opposing leg end mating with a ground surface.

The opposing leg end may be sunk into the ground or fixed to a ground platform or foundation post. Each leg may connect to a leg fixing member via the connection detail described above. In this embodiment, the leg may comprise dogs that mate with slots on the leg fixing member. The dogs located on the legs may be orientated to point upwards so that a load placed on the platform will urge the dogs to interlock further with a slot upper end on the leg fixing member, the leg applying a force in the opposite direction to that of a load placed on the platform.

Further, the leg fixing member may have multiple elongated slots located at varying heights along the leg fixing member height. The variation in slot position means that a leg may be connected to the leg fixing member, and hence platform, at a variety of positions and as a result, offers the flexibility of height variation quickly and on site to suit the land contours of the site provided.

Assemble Toolessly

Assembly of the elongated end sections, the elongated side sections, the leg fixing members and the legs may occur toolessly and without use, or with minimal use, of fasteners.

Optionally, at assembly, the installer may use a hammer to lightly press the dogs and elongated slots together.

Fastener Use

Optionally, fasteners may be used to permanently fix the legs to the leg fixing members and/or, to permanently fix the sides and the ends together directly or indirectly via the leg fixing member.

This is not essential and the modular platform in the inventors experience is structural and stiff once the parts are fitted together using the connection details described above and fasteners may not be needed.

The fasteners where used may be screws or bolts. The fasteners may be a self-drilling screw such as a Tek™ screw. The fastener where used may be placed through the leg fixing member and the end/side/leg to link these parts together.

Load Bearing Span Members

The load bearing span members may be configured to cover an opening prescribed by a distance between the elongated side sections and a distance between the elongated end sections once the modular platform is assembled. The load bearing span members may be planks, sheets or even a single sheet of a load bearing material that is placed over at least part of the end and side sections, In one embodiment, the load bearing span members may be planks with a width of between 50mm and 150mm and a length commensurate with the width of the modular platform from one elongated side section to an opposing elongated side section when the modular platform is assembled.

Optionally, the elongated side sections may comprise retaining members thereon, the retaining members configured to capture an end or ends of the load bearing span members and, in doing so, retain the load bearing span members in place over the elongated side sections and the elongated end sections. The retaining members may in one embodiment be C-shape sections that extend longitudinally along the side section length, the C-shape opening facing inwards towards the modular platform centre. The C-shape of the retaining members may complement the height of the end or ends of the load bearing members. The end or ends of the load bearing members may be slidingly assembled into the C-shape sections and hence retained therein.

Optionally, a fastener or fasteners may be used to fix a load bearing span member to the side or sides of the modular platform. Where fasteners and retaining members are used, the fastener may fix the retaining member and load bearing span member together.

Mid-Span Members

Optionally, the modular platform or modules may further comprise at least one midspan support member.

Each mid-span support member may have an elongated form.

Each mid-span support member may extend from one end of a module to an opposing end of a module. The mid span supports may instead (or also) extend from one of the side sections to an opposing side section.

Each mid-span support member may extend orthogonally to an end section and parallel to a side section from one end to an opposing end of the module. Alternatively, each mid-span support member may extend parallel to an end section and orthogonally to a side section from one end to an opposing end of the module.

Each mid-span support member may be located under and support the load bearing span members.

Flat Platform Unit In one embodiment, the modular platform comprises two end sections and two side sections that are configured to assemble together to form a square or rectangular shaped platform unit with a substantially flat surface.

The platform unit when assembled may have a square shape that may be approximately 1200mm x 1200mm wide and deep.

Multiple platform units may be linked together to form a larger platform unit.

Linking of platform units may be via the above described connection detail using dogs and elongated slots.

Legs used to form a platform unit may have a variable height so that the platform unit top may be configured to be generally planar and substantially flat in a horizontal plane. Optionally a small fall in slope may be incorporated to allow for drainage from the platform unit surface.

The platform unit or platform units may be linked to other items in the modular platform such as other platform units noted above and/or ramp units or stair units.

Ramp Unit

In one embodiment, the modular platform may be a ramp unit and the ramp unit may comprise two end sections and two side sections that are configured to assemble together to form a square or a rectangular shape. The side sections may be longer than the end sections.

One ramp unit when assembled may have a rectangular shape that may be approximately 2400mm x 1200mm long and wide.

Multiple ramp units may be linked together to form a larger ramp unit.

Linking of ramp units may be via the above described connection detail using dogs and elongated slots.

The ramp units may comprise the legs and leg fixing members as noted above. In the case of the ramp unit, the leg height may be varied between each end of the ramp unit to achieve a desired degree of ramp unit incline or decline. Regulations for ramp design favour use of a 4 degree slope for ramps. As a result, the ramp unit slope during assembly may be configured to be approximately 4 degrees subject to any site limitations and this may be achieved by leg height adjustment and use of multiple ramp units.

When one end of the ramp units reaches ground level, the ramp unit end may abut a separate lip to form a smooth transition to the ground surface. This may be made from asphalt, compacted soil, concrete or other known materials. Stair Unit

In one embodiment, the modular platform comprises at least one stair unit, each stair unit comprising two end sections and two side sections that are configured to assemble together to form a square or rectangular shape and wherein the load bearing span members are stairs/steps, each stair/step has a depth and height, and where multiple steps traverse a height difference between the stair unit ends.

The side sections of the stair unit may be longer than the end sections.

The width of the end sections may be common. In one example, the width may be approximately 1200mm wide. The width of each stair or step may also have a common width with the stair unit end sections e.g. 1200mm wide.

The length of the side sections may vary depending on the degree of height drop and the angle over the stair unit sides. For example, the angle of the side sections when the stair unit is assembled may be from 20 degrees to 40 degrees.

Stairs in a stair unit may have a common depth. The common depth may be approximately 300mm to 350mm. The stair unit side length and angle may be varied by altering the stair position longitudinally, stair pitch from stair to stair and stair depth.

Stairs may be connected to the stair unit side sections using a connection detail like that described above with mating dogs and elongated slots.

Stair units may further comprise at least one nose. The nose may be a separate part or integrated ending to the stair unit side or sides. The nose may in one embodiment have a face that extends from a side section and past the end section. The face may comprise a mount point or mount points that abut and can be used to connect the stair unit to another modular platform or to a nose or ground transition. For example, an upper end of the stair unit may require connection to a platform unit. The platform unit ends or sides may be located above the ground surface. The stair unit may be used to step down from the platform unit, the stair unit sides defining the angle of the steps down. With the side sections of the stair unit on an angle, the nose may be used to connect the angled side sections of the stair unit to the platform unit. The nose faces may slide over or under side or end sections of the platform unit and be connected together. Connection may be via the connection detail described above or by use of fasteners.

Advantages The above described modular platforms, methods of assembly and kit or parts may provide a number of advantages over the art including, but not limited to:

Quick assembly with minimal labour and fixings required;

Flat pack storage and transport hence efficient to store and move to a site;

Modular and with flexibility in height and span hence versatile for various sites and able to be adjusted on-site to suit each particular build location and structure;

No pre-assembly off-site is required minimising prefabrication time;

The modular platform is simple/of low complexity hence, it is quick to build and minimal skill is required to install the modular platform;

The speed of assembly means large efficiencies in build time and hence handover of a completed build;

The modular nature of the design means the same design features can be used to manufacture different units and the different units may be configured in different ways hence providing a very versatile design.

The embodiments described above may also be said broadly to consist in the parts, elements and features referred to or indicated in the specification of the application, individually or collectively, and any or all combinations of any two or more said parts, elements or features.

Further, where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which the embodiments relate, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

WORKING EXAMPLES

The above described modular platforms, method of assembly and kit of parts are now described by reference to specific examples.

Item numbers and parts described in the examples below are as follows:

1 Modular platform

2 Elongated end sections

3 Elongated side sections

4 Leg fixing members 5 Legs

6 Load bearing span members

7 Connection Detail

8 Dog 9 Slot

10 Platform unit

11 Stair unit

12 Ramp unit

15 Narrow end of dog 16 Thick base of dog

17 Box shape

18 First leg end

19 Platform corner

20 Opposing leg end 21 Ground surface/plate

22 Pointing upwards

28 Fastener

24 Side sections 26 Midspan support member 28 Steps

29 Ends

30 Angle

31 Nose

40 Separate lip 50 Handrail

EXAM PLE 1 In this example, an embodiment is shown of a modular platform 1. Figures 1-3 show a full assembly with the various units connected together, in this example being two connected ramp units 12, a single platform unit 10 and two stair units 11 extending from the platform unit 10. Together the units 10, 11, 12 form a modular platform 1. Any combination of these units 10, 11, 12 may be used, the units 10, 11, 12 have common parts and fixtures and therefore being interchangeable to suit a desired design and configuration.

Each unit 10, 11, 12 in the modular platform 1 comprises as separate parts configurable in flat pack form, elongated end sections 2, elongated side sections 3, leg fixing members 4, legs 5, and load bearing span members 6. The elongated end sections 2 and elongated side sections 3 are linked to the leg fixing members 4 via a connection detail 7 described further below. In addition, the legs 5 are linked to the leg fixing members 4 via the connection detail 7. Load bearing span members 6 are placed on the side sections 3 and end sections 2. The separate parts noted may be assembled together toolessly.

The elongated end sections 2 and elongated side sections 3 may assemble together to define a generally square to rectangular shape and the units 10, 11, 12 may be at an incline relative to a horizontal plane in the case of a stair unit 11 or ramp unit 12.

The load bearing span members 6 as shown may be planks with a width of between 50mm and 150mm and a length commensurate with the width of the modular platform 1 from one side section 3 to an opposing side section 3 when the modular platform 1 is assembled.

Side sections 24 retaining members for the span members 6 are best shown in Figure 5 and may have a shape configured to capture an end or ends of the load bearing span members 6 and in doing so, help to retain these span members 6 in place over the side 3 and end sections 2. The retaining members 26 as shown have a C-shape that extend longitudinally along the side section 3 length, the C-shape opening facing inwards towards the modular platform 1 centre. The C-shape may complement the height of the end or ends of the load bearing span members 6 . The ends of the load bearing span members 6 in this embodiment are slidingly assembled into the C-shape retaining members 24.

Optionally, the modular platform 1 may comprise at least one midspan support member 26 either running from an end section 2 to another end section 2 and/or from a side section 3 to an opposing side section 3.

EXAM PLE 2

In this example, the connection detail 7 comprising a dog 8 and slot 9 is described further with reference particularly to Figures 10-13 of an embodiment of a leg 5 and fixing member 4 cross- section side views. The cross-sections noted are taken from Figure 6, Figure 6 showing an embodiment of a platform unit 10 however the same principles apply to a ramp unit 12 or stair unit 11.

One connection detail 7 comprise mating dogs 8 and elongated slots 9 is located between the leg fixing member 4 and an end section 2. The legs 5 may also fix to the leg fixing member 4 via the same connection detail 7.

As shown in Figures 10 to 13, the end 2 and side 3 sections may have dogs configured so that the dog or dogs fit through an elongated slot or slots in each leg fixing member 4 and then, through vertical movement, the dogs lock over a slot 9 end and hence interlock the parts together. The dogs point downwards or towards a ground surface 21 so that a load placed on the modular platform 1 urges the side 3 and end 2 sections downward and hence urges the dogs 8 to further interlock with the elongated slot 9 ends.

As shown, each side 3 or end 2 section has two dogs 8 and these dogs mate with two complementary sized elongated slots 9 in the leg fixing member 4.

The slots 9 have a width that is substantially similar to the width of a dog 8 and a length that is similar to the length of a dog 8 so that the dog 8 can slip through the slot 9 before vertical plane movement to cause dog 8 and slot 9 engagement.

The dogs 8 may taper in shape from a relatively narrow end 15 to a relatively thickened base 16 so that the thickened base interferes with the elongated slot 9 opening causing elastic or plastic deformation of the slot 9 and/or dog 8 and hence tighter locking of the connection detail 7.

In the Figures, the leg fixing members 4 have a box shape 17 that partly or fully enclose one end of the legs 5 and the leg fixing members 4 are fixed to both an end 2 and side 3 section about a platform corner 19 when the modular platform 1 is assembled.

Each leg 5 connects to a leg fixing member 4 about a first leg end 18, the opposing leg end 20 mates with a ground plate 21, a ground surface or my extend into the ground (not shown).

The leg 5 may comprise dogs 8 that mate with slots 9 on the leg fixing member 4 . The dogs 8 located on the legs 5 may be orientated to point upwards 22 so that a load placed on the modular platform 1 will urge the dogs 8 to interlock further with a slot 9 upper end on the leg fixing member 4, the leg 5 applying a force in the opposite direction to that of a load placed on the modular platform 1.

Optionally, a fastener 23 may be used to permanently fix the legs 5 to the leg fixing members 4 and/or to permanently fix the sides 3 and ends 2 together directly or to a leg fixing member 4. EXAM PLE 3

In this example, a platform unit 10 is described particularly with reference to Figures 4 to 9.

In this example, the modular platform 1 comprises two end sections 2 and two side sections 3 that are configured to assemble together to form a square or rectangular shaped platform unit 10 with a substantially flat surface, the surface defined by the span members 6.

The platform unit 10 when assembled may have a square shape that may be approximately 1200mm x 1200mm wide and deep and multiple platform units 10 may be linked together to form a larger platform unit 10 / modular platform 1.

Linking of platform units 10 may be via the above described connection detail 7 using dogs 8 and elongated slots 9.

Legs 5 used to form a platform unit 10 may have an even height so that the platform unit 10 top is generally planar and substantially flat in a horizontal plane save for a small fall in slope to allow for drainage from the platform unit 10 surface.

EXAM PLE 4

In this example, the ramp unit 12 is described in more detail particularly with reference to Figures 14-15. In this example, two ramp units 12 are shown joined together and each ramp unit 12 has two end sections 2 and two side sections 3 that are configured to assemble together to form a square or rectangular shape. The side sections 3 as shown in the Figures are longer than the end sections 2.

One ramp unit 12 when assembled and as shown in the Figures has a rectangular shape that may be approximately 2400mm x 1200mm long and wide and multiple ramp units 12 may be linked together to form a larger ramp unit 12/modular platform 1. Linking of ramp units 12 may be via the above described connection detail 7 using dogs 8 and elongated slots 9.

The ramp units 12 may comprise the legs 5 and leg fixing members 4 as noted above. In the case of the ramp unit, the leg 5 height may be varied between each end of the ramp unit 12 to achieve a desired degree of ramp unit 12 incline or decline e.g. a 4 degree slope 27

When one end of the ramp units reaches ground level, the ramp unit end may abut a separate lip, an example shown in Figure 28 where the lip 40 forms a smooth transition to the ground surface. This may be made from asphalt, compacted soil, concrete or as shown in Figure 28, a steel plate.

EXAM PLE 5 In this example stair unit 11 embodiments are illustrated with reference to Figures 16-21 and Figures 22-27 showing side views of the various noses possible.

Each stair unit 11 may comprise two end sections 2 and two side sections 3 that are configured to assemble together to form a square or rectangular shape and wherein the load bearing span members 6 are this embodiment stairs/steps 28, each stair/step 28 having a depth and height, and where multiple steps 28 traverse a height difference between the stair unit 11 ends 29.

The side sections 3 of the stair unit 11 may be longer than the end sections 2. The width of the end sections 2 may be common. In one example, the width of the stair unit 11 may be approximately 1200mm wide. The width of each step 28 may also have a common width with the stair unit 11 end sections 2 e.g. 1200mm wide.

The length of the side sections 3 may vary depending on the degree of height drop and the angle 30 over the stair unit 11 sides. For example, from 20 degrees to 40 degrees and the various ways these angles 30 may be achieved are shown in Figures 16-21.

Stairs 28 may be connected to the stair unit 11 side sections 3 using a connection detail 7 like that described above with mating dogs 8 and elongated slots 9.

Stair units 11 may further comprise at least one nose 31. The nose 31 may be a separate part or integrated ending to the stair unit 11 side or sides 3. The nose 31 may have a face that extends from a side section 3 and past the end section 2. The face may comprise a mount point or mount points that abut and can be used to connect the stair unit 11 to another modular platform 1 unit 10, 11, 12 or to a nose or ground transition (not shown). The nose 31 may take various configurations as shown in Figures 22-27.

Figure 28 shows how a ramp unit 12 may have a separate lip 40 attached to smooth transfer from a terminal point of the ramp unit 12 to the ground surface. A separate lip 40 may not be needed and instead the ground may be shaped to link to the ramp unit 12 or a separate lip 40 made from poured concrete or other materials.

EXAM PLE 6

The modular platform may be assembled by the steps of: selecting a modular platform 1 as described above; linking together the side sections 3 and end sections 2 to the leg fixing member 4; linking together the legs 5 and leg fixing members 4; locating and linking the load bearing span members 6 across the linked end sections 2 and side sections 3.

The above described modular platform 1 may also be provided as a kit of parts comprising the modular platform 1 described along with a set of assembly instructions. Assembly of the end sections 2, side sections 3, leg fixing members 4 and legs 5 may occur toolessly and without use, or with minimal use, of fasteners. At assembly, the installer may use a hammer to lightly press the connection detail 7 dogs 8 and slots 9 together. EXAM PLE 7

Figures 29, 30 and 31 illustrate further variations of modular platform arrangements using different arrangements of platform units 10, stair units 11 and ramp units 12.

Figure 29 shows a similar assembly to Figure 1 however a handrail 50 is attached to the modular platform 1 edge. The handrail may be an additional part or parts that link to the respective platform 10, stair 11 or ramp 12 unit sides.

Figure 30 shows an alternative arrangement comprising ramp units 12, platform units 10 and a single stair unit 11.

Figure 31 shows a further alternative arrangement comprising four ramp units 12, four platform units 10, a stair unit 11 and a separate lip 40 attached to the lowest ramp unit 12.

Aspects of the modular platforms, method of assembly and kit of parts have been described by way of example only and it should be appreciated that modifications and additions may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the claims herein.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A modular platform, the modular platform comprising, as separate parts configured in flat pack form: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; load bearing span members.

2. A modular platform, the modular platform when assembled comprising: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; the elongated end sections elongated side sections linked to leg fixing members via a connection detail; legs linked to the leg fixing members via the connection detail; load bearing span members placed on the side and end sections.

3. A modular platform comprising, as separate parts: elongated end sections; elongated side sections; leg fixing members; legs; and wherein the separate parts are assembled together toolessly via a connection detail comprising mating dogs and elongated slots,

4. The modular platform as claimed in any one of the above claims wherein each modular platform comprises: at least one platform unit; and/or at least one stair unit; and/or at least one ramp unit.

5. The modular platform as claimed in claim 4 wherein the at least one platform unit comprises two end sections and two side sections that are configured to assemble together to form a square or rectangular shaped platform unit with a substantially flat surface.

6. The modular platform as claimed in claim 5 wherein the legs used to form the at least one platform unit have a variable height so that the at least one platform unit top can be configured to be generally planar.

7. The modular platform as claimed in claim 4 wherein the at least one ramp unit comprises two end sections and two side sections that are configured to assemble together to form a square or rectangular shape, the leg height of the ramp unit legs varying between each end of the ramp unit to achieve a desired degree of ramp unit incline or decline.

8. The modular platform as claimed in claim 4 wherein the at least one stair unit comprises two end sections and two side sections that are configured to assemble together to form a square or rectangular shape and wherein the load bearing span members are stairs, each stair having a depth and height, and where multiple steps traverse a height difference between the stair unit ends.

9. The modular platform as claimed in claim 8 wherein the at least one stair unit comprises at least one nose, the nose used to connect the at least one stair unit to the at least one platform unit.

10. The modular platform as claimed in any one of the above claims wherein the connection detail comprises mating dogs and elongated slots configured so that the dog or dogs fit through an elongated slot or slots in each of the leg fixing members and then, through vertical movement, the dog or dogs lock into the elongated slot.

11. The modular platform as claimed in any one of the above claims wherein the load bearing span members are configured to cover an opening prescribed by the distance between the elongated side sections and a distance between the elongated end sections once the modular platform assembled.

12. The modular platform as claimed in any one of the above claims wherein the elongated side sections comprise retaining members thereon, the retaining members configured to capture an end or ends of the load bearing span members and, in doing so, retaining the load bearing span members in place over the elongated side sections and the elongated end sections.

13. The modular platform as claimed in any one of the above claims wherein assembly of the modular platform occurs toolessly and without use, or with minimal use, of fasteners.

14. A method of assembling a modular platform, the method comprising the steps of: selecting a modular platform as claimed in any one of the above claims; and linking together the elongated side sections and elongated end sections to the leg fixing members; linking together the legs and the leg fixing members; locating and linking the load bearing span members across the elongated end sections and elongated side sections.

15. A kit of parts comprising: a modular platform, as claimed in any one of the above claims; and a set of assembly instructions.