Connection assembly for a modular footbridge

Abstract

A connection assembly for a modular footbridge having two or more bridge segments, the connection assembly comprising a first connector member and a second connector member, wherein one segment of the modular footbridge is provided with the first connector member and is connectable to another adjacently disposed segment having the second connector member by connecting the first connector member to the second connector member.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY-FUNDED RESEARCH

Not applicable.

NAMES OF THE PARTIES TO A JOINT RESEARCH AGREEMENT

Not applicable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a modular footbridge constructed in accordance with the present invention, shown in a ladder configuration.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a base segment of the footbridge of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of segments of the footbridge of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a connection assembly for joining segments to form a modular footbridge or ladder and for adjusting the configuration thereof.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of another embodiment of a connection assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of one embodiment of a base plate for use with the modular footbridge of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the modular footbridge of FIG. 1, shown in a footbridge configuration.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a handrail connector assembly with a handrail support inserted therein.

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of the modular footbridge of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8A is a side elevational view of the modular footbridge of FIG. 1 in a collapsed configuration for storage and transportation.

FIG. 8B is an end elevational view of the modular footbridge of FIG. 1 in a collapsed configuration.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a modular ladder and footbridge, in a collapsed configuration, positioned on a roof rack of a vehicle for transport.

FIG. 10 is a cutaway, fragmented view of a connection assembly in association with two longitudinal members connected to segments of a modular footbridge.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a connector member.

FIGS. 12 and 13 are perspective views of a spacer.

FIG. 14A is an exploded perspective view of a connection assembly.

FIG. 14B is a top plan view of a connection assembly joined together with a threaded connector.

FIG. 14C is a top plan view of connector members joined together with a threaded connector.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The present invention generally relates to means for crossing and/or overcoming obstacles such as waterways, ditches, canals, and walls. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, the present invention relates to a lightweight, modular footbridge that may also function as a ladder for climbing.

Numerous situations arise in which it is desirable to have an effective means for permitting individuals to traverse waterways such as streams, drainage channels, and the like. Similarly, numerous situations arise in which it is desirable to have an effective means for permitting individuals to ascend a wall or other elevated obstacle, such as to enter a second or third-story window of a building. Such needs arise in combat and urban-warfare situations where soldiers are often limited in the amount of equipment they can carry. Similar needs also arise in the case of emergency responders such as firemen, police, SWAT teams, and the like which are required to respond quickly to an emergency with only limited amounts of portable equipment. The inherent unpredictability of these situations further requires that such a means for overcoming obstacles be easily adaptable to various obstacles and also easily portable and deployable.

To this end, the present invention is directed to a modular footbridge that may be disassembled and/or collapsed for easy portability, and may be quickly and easily reassembled in a variety of configurations for adaptability and deployability for traversing a variety of obstacles such as streams and ditches. The modular footbridge of the present invention may further be utilized as a ladder for overcoming elevated obstacles such as walls and the like. In this way, the modular footbridge preferably has at least two configurations: a bridge configuration and a ladder configuration. In order to ensure its portability, the modular footbridge is preferably constructed of a durable and relatively lightweight material such as aluminum. In other embodiments, the footbridge may be constructed of any suitable polymer, composite, fiberglass, titanium, alloy, carbon fiber (including carbon nanotube materials), any other suitably durable material, or any combinations thereof. Portability may be of less importance in certain embodiments which may effectively utilize heavier materials such as steel and the like.

Referring now to the drawings, and in particular FIG. 1, shown therein is a perspective view of one preferred embodiment of the modular footbridge 10 constructed in accordance with the present invention and shown in a ladder configuration. The footbridge 10 is also preferably adapted to be selectively deployed in a footbridge configuration, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, and described in more detail below. The footbridge 10 preferably comprises two end segments 14 and two medial segments 18. Other embodiments of the footbridge 10 may comprise any number of medial segments 18 and up to two end segments 14. For example, to traverse a short wall, a footbridge 10 may be assembled with two end segments 14 and no medial segments 18. Each segment 14 or 18 preferably has a ladder-like construction comprising a pair of longitudinal members 22 and a plurality of lateral members 26 extending between the longitudinal members 22. In other embodiments, the segments 14 or 18 may comprise only one longitudinal member 22 with lateral members 26 extending from one or both sides of the longitudinal member 22. Similarly, the segments 14 or 18 may comprise more than two longitudinal members 22 with lateral members 26 extending therebetween or therefrom. Each segment 14 or 18 preferably further includes an upper side 30 and a lower side 34, which may also be referred to as the footbridge side 30 and ladder side 34.

The footbridge side 30 is provided with a walking surface 38 that generally faces up when the footbridge 10 is in use in its bridge configuration. The walking surface 38 is preferably constructed from expanded metal that has been cut and/or stretched to provide a number of substantially-equivalent protrusions so as to make a non-slip surface. In other embodiments, the walking surface 38 may be constructed with a rigid or flexible solid sheet of material, a plurality of slats or wires, or any combination of materials and structures which provide a surface or equivalent that is capable of supporting an individual or small vehicle while traversing the footbridge 10 in its bridge configuration. For example, the walking surface 38 may be constructed or formed from strap, fabric, netting, or the like which may be fastened and/or stretched to or about a portion of the footbridge 10. In other embodiments of the present invention, the footbridge 10 may comprise any combination of end segments 14 and medial segments 18 that permit the footbridge 10 to function as a bridge, a ladder, a scaffold, or any other secondary purposes to which the invention lends itself.

Each of the segments 14 or 18 preferably attaches to, connects to, or otherwise engages the immediately-adjacent segment 14 or 18 via a pair of connection assemblies 42. It should be understood that embodiments comprising less or more longitudinal members 22 will likely utilize a correspondingly smaller or greater number of connection assemblies 42. Each longitudinal member 22 of a segment 14 or 18 will preferably be attached to the corresponding longitudinal member 22 of the adjacent segment 14 or 18 via a single connection assembly 42. For example, adjacent segments having only a single longitudinal member 22 will preferably attach to one another via only a single connection assembly 42. In addition to connecting adjacent segments 14 or 18, the connection assemblies 42 are preferably used to adjust the configuration of the footbridge 10. The footbridge 10 in FIG. 1 is depicted in the ladder configuration. That is, all segments 14 or 18 are arranged in a substantially co-planar manner such that the length 46 of the footbridge 10 is maximized for the given number of segments 14 or 18.

The end segments 14 preferably have a connection assembly 42 attached to a medial end 50 and a terminal connector 54 attached to a distal end 58. The terminal connector 54 shown is merely exemplary and other embodiments of the terminal connector 54 may be constructed with any suitable shape or connection means for attaching objects or devices to the end of the footbridge 10. For example, the terminal connector 54 may be adapted to bolt directly to a vehicle (not shown) or to fit over a standard ball hitch, such as on a vehicle. In the embodiment shown, the footbridge 10 is provided with a base plate 62 that pivotally attaches to the distal end 58 via the terminal connector 54.

Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, enlarged perspective views of an end segment 14 and of the lateral supports 26 are depicted. The lateral supports 26 extend between the longitudinal supports 22. The lateral supports 26 preferably provide or function as “steps” or “rungs” to permit an individual to climb the footbridge 10 when in a ladder configuration. To this end, the lateral supports 26 are incrementally spaced at preferably equal distances 66. The distance 66 can be any suitable length that permits an individual to climb effectively and adequately supports the longitudinal supports 22 and the walking surface 38. For example, the distance 66 may be 8″, 12″, or 18″. In other embodiments, the distance 66 may vary between lateral supports 26. As best shown in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, the lateral supports 26 are preferably deeper than the longitudinal supports 22 so as to provide a larger area for climbing when the footbridge 10 is in a ladder configuration. The lateral supports 26 also preferably include openings 70 (FIG. 3) sized to permit a human hand to grasp the lateral support 26 so as to facilitate climbing the footbridge 10 in its ladder configuration or carrying the footbridge 10. In other embodiments, the lateral supports may be constructed so as to be flush with the longitudinal supports 22, for example, to reduce the weight of the footbridge 10. Similarly, the openings 70 may be modified or omitted entirely in other embodiments, as desired for various applications. For example, a lip (not shown) could be provided on one or more lateral supports 26 or one or more longitudinal supports 22 to facilitate grasping a segment 14 or 18.

In the preferred embodiment, the connection assemblies 42 are provided with one handrail attachment member 74 and a pair of anchor members 78. The terminal connector 54 is also preferably provided with at least one anchor member 78. Alternatively, or in addition, anchor members 74 may be provided nearly anywhere on the footbridge that may be advantageous for specific applications. The handrail attachment member 74 provides a connection point for selective attachment of a handrail support, which will be described in more detail below. The anchor members 78 provide connection points for numerous possible purposes, for example: anchoring the footbridge 10 to a building in a ladder configuration, anchoring the footbridge 10 to a vehicle for transport, or anchoring a safety line to the footbridge 10. The anchor members 78 preferably have a hole 82 formed therethrough such that a rope or clip can be fastened to the anchor member 78. In the preferred embodiment, the anchor members 78 are fastened to the footbridge 10 with one or more bolts or rivets to facilitate easily assembly and replacement. The anchor members 78 may also be attached to the footbridge 10 with any other suitable fastening means such as welds, screws, adhesives, clips, or the like. In addition, the footbridge 10 may be provided with additional clips or mounts (not shown) as desired to mount or attach equipment, supplies, accessories, or the like. For example, the footbridge 10 may be provided with clips or mounts for affixing light sources for night crossings and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 4, one preferred embodiment of the connection assembly 42 is depicted in greater detail. Each connection assembly 42 comprises a pair of connection members 100, each engaging a corresponding longitudinal support 22 of an adjacent segment 14 or 18. Each connection member 100 preferably includes an attachment portion 104 and an adjustment portion 108. The attachment portion 104 is shown attached to the corresponding longitudinal support 22 with a pair of standard bolts 112. Such attachment methods are well known in the art and the bolts 112 may be replaced with any suitable attachment means, including but not limited to: welds, adhesives, screws, interlocking or engaging grooves or protrusions, magnets, tabs, snaps, or the like, or any combination thereof. In the preferred embodiment, the adjustment portion 108 comprises a pivot hole 116, a ladder configuration hole 120, and a bridge configuration hole 124. As shown, the pivot hole 116 is preferably offset from the axis of the longitudinal member 22 such that connected segments 14 or 18 may be pivoted about the axis of the pivot hole 116 in such a way to as be proximal to one another, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B and described in more detail below.

As shown, when the footbridge 10 is in either of the ladder and bridge configurations, the adjustment portions 108 are preferably secured relative to one another via two axial connectors 128 such as, for example, pins 128: one pin 128 extending through the pivot hole 116 and one pin 128 extending through one of the configuration holes 120 or 124. As shown in FIG. 3, when one pin 128 is inserted through the pivot hole 120 and one pin is inserted through the ladder hole 120, the adjacent segments 14 or 18 are substantially aligned. As shown in FIG. 4, when one pin 128 is inserted through the pivot hole 120 and one pin 128 is inserted through the bridge hole 124, the adjacent segments 14 or 18 are in a bridge position in which the segments are still expanded relative to one another, but are disposed at an angle 132 relative to one another. The angle 132 in the bridge position is preferably between about 90 degrees and about 175 degrees, and in some embodiments, the connection assembly 42 may be adapted such that the angle 132 is adjustable. When in the bridge position, the angle 132 is always less than 170 degrees, and more preferably less than 170 degrees such that the adjacent segments 14 or 18 are angularly disposed relative to one another and are not substantially aligned or coplanar, as they are in the ladder configuration. In this bridge position, the segments 14 or 18 in held in this expanded angularly-disposed relationship with one another in which the segments 14 or 18 are not coplanar, but are still expanded relative to one another.

In other embodiments, the connection assembly 42 may be constructed without the ladder hole 120, such that connection assembly 42 has only a pivot hole 116 and a bridge hole 124. In such embodiments, the angle between the segments 14 or 18 when in the bridge position may be 180 degrees such that the segments 14 or 18 are substantially coplanar and aligned. In such embodiments, there would only be two positions or configurations when segments 14 or 18 are connected by a connection assembly 42: a collapsed position and a bridge position. However, when the bridge position results in the segments 14 or 18 being substantially coplanar or aligned, the bridge position may be suitable for use a ladder as well.

Referring now to FIG. 4A, another embodiment of a connection assembly 42a constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown. The connection assembly 42a is a single-piece member having attachment portions 100 adapted to be inserted into the corresponding longitudinal supports 22 of the adjacent segments 14 or 18. As with the connection assembly 42 above, the connection assembly 42a may be constructed in an aligned ladder configuration, an angled footbridge configuration, or any other configuration which may enable practical implementation of the present invention.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a top plan view of one embodiment of a base plate 62 is shown. The base plate 62 is preferably provided with a generally-rectangular shape having a width 200 and a length 204. In the preferred embodiment, the base plate 62 is provided with a pair of footbridge connectors 208 corresponding to the terminal connectors 54 of the end segments 14 (FIG. 2). The footbridge connectors 208 preferably protrude upwards from the base plate 62 to provide a pivoted connection to permit the base plate 62 to be easily adjusted to adapt, for example, to uneven terrain. Additionally, the base plate 62 is preferably provided with a plurality of holes 212 near the peripheral edge 216. The holes 212 provide a means for stabilizing the base plate 62, such as by staking it into the ground, bolting it to the bed of a truck, or by any other suitable methods. The base plate 62 may also be constructed in any other shape that provides a suitable base for the footbridge 10 in either of a ladder configuration or a footbridge configuration. In other embodiments, the base plate 62 may also be omitted entirely.

Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 6A, a perspective view of the footbridge 10 is shown in a footbridge configuration, as well as an enlarged view of a handrail attachment member 74. When deployed in the footbridge configuration, the footbridge 10 preferably includes a handrail 300. The handrail 300 generally comprises a plurality of handrail supports 304 and a handrail cord 308. The handrail supports 304 are connected to the footbridge 10 at the handrail attachment members 74. Each handrail support 304 preferably includes a base portion 316, an extension portion 320, and a guide portion 324. The handrail cord 308 may be constructed of any suitably durable cord, such as a cable, rope, wire, chain, or the like.

The base portion 316 preferably inserts into the handrail attachment member 74. As best shown in FIG. 6A, the handrail connection member 74 includes a retention slot 328. In the preferred embodiment, the base portion 316 of the handrail support 304 is provided with a corresponding retention pin 332. In this way, assembly is accomplished by inserting the base portion 316 into the handrail attachment member 74 with the retention pin 332 aligned with the retention slot 328. As the base portion 316 is inserted, the handrail support 304 is rotated to seat the retention pin 332 and thereby substantially secure the handrail support 304 in the handrail attachment member 74. The extension portion 320 extends from the base portion 316 to the guide portion 324 to elevate the handrail to a functional height. The guide portion 324 is a preferably hollow member through which the handrail cord 308 is threaded to create the functional handrail 300 as shown. In other embodiments, the guide portion 324 may be provided with a slot through which the handrail cord 308 may be passed without having to thread it through the guide member 324.

To assemble handrail 300, the handrail supports 304 are connected to the footbridge 10, as described above, and the handrail cord 308 is sequentially threaded through each of the guide portions 324. Each end of the handrail cord 308 is then fastened to a corresponding anchor member 78 at each end of the footbridge 10. The handrail cord 308 is preferably tensioned prior to or concurrently with being fastened to the anchor members 78 such that a downward force is provided to the handrail supports 304 and the handrail 300 will be stable enough to provide support to individuals crossing the footbridge 10.

When the preferred embodiment of the footbridge 10 is deployed in a footbridge configuration, it can be provided with one or more stiffener straps 328. Two stiffener straps 328 are shown by way of example. The stiffener straps 328 are preferably selectively connected to the anchor points 78 at either end of the footbridge 10, via a connection means such as snap-rings, carabiners, snap hooks, or the like. In other embodiments, the stiffener straps 328 may be tied to the anchor points 78 by hand as necessary. The stiffener straps 328 preferably extend from one end of the footbridge 10 to the next, preferably at an angle or across the width of the bridge 10 as well as the length. For example, a first stiffener strap would extend from the right side of the first end to the left side of the second end of the footbridge 10, and a second stiffener strap 328 would extend from the left side of the first end to the right side of the second end of the footbridge 10. In this way, the straps provide tension between the two ends of the footbridge 10, as well as provide resistance to torsional loads that may be created by uneven terrain or uneven load distribution upon the footbridge 10. The stiffener straps 328 may be constructed of any suitably-durable cord-like material, for example chain, strap, rope, cable, wire, or the like. In other embodiments, the stiffener straps 328 may extend from a segment 14 or 18 to the next sequential segment 14 or 18; from an end segment 14 to a medial segment 18; or in any other suitable configuration.

In some embodiments, it is desirable to construct the connection assemblies 42 such that the connection assemblies alone are not sufficiently strong to alone support the footbridge 10 or a weight on the footbridge 10 when in the bridge configuration or position. For example, this may be desirable to reduce the weight of the footbridge 10. However, in such embodiments, the stiffener straps 328 preferably cooperate with the connection assemblies 42 and the segments 14 or 18 to provide sufficient strength to support both the footbridge 10 and a suitable weight or working load on the footbridge 10 to enable it to function in the bridge configuration or position.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a side elevational view of the footbridge 10 deployed across an obstacle is shown. The footbridge is shown deployed across a channel 400 having a first side 404, a second side 408, and a width 412. As shown, the width 412 of the channel 400 is nearly as large as the span of the footbridge 10. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the footbridge 10 having four segments 14 or 18 as shown will be sufficient to cross a channel narrower than width 412. However, the footbridge 10 may also be modified by adding additional medial segments 18 so as to increase the span of the footbridge 10. It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that adding additional segments may decrease the load capacity of the footbridge 10. Additionally, for channels 400 narrower than width 412, it may be desirable to assemble the footbridge 10 with only one medial segment 18 or with no medial segments 18, as needed.

As shown, when deployed in the footbridge configuration, the footbridge 10 preferably has a base plate 62 attached to each end segment 14 so as to stabilize both ends of the footbridge 10. The base plates 62 can be positioned and staked to the ground with one or more stakes 416 to provide additional stability to the footbridge 10. In one preferred method of deployment, the footbridge 10 is assembled on a first side 404 of the channel 400. A first base plate 62a is then staked to the ground with one or more stakes 416, and the footbridge is pivoted, relative to the staked base plate 62a, into position across the channel 400. An individual may then cross the footbridge 10 and stake the second base plate 62b with one or more stakes 416 to secure the footbridge 10 in position for additional individuals to cross the channel 400. Once all individuals have crossed the channel 400, the stakes 416 can be removed to free the first base plate 62a and the footbridge 10 can be pivoted, relative to the second base plate 62b, across to the second side 408 of the channel 400. The stakes 416 can then be removed to free the second base plate 62b and the footbridge 10 disassembled or collapsed to be transported with the individuals or stored for a later return.

Referring now to FIGS. 8A and 8B, one half of the footbridge 10 of FIG. 1 is shown in a collapsed position for transport or storage. As shown, the connection assembly 42 is designed such that a pin 128 can be left in the pivot hole 116 such that adjacent segments 14 or 18 may be folded flat against one another to facilitate transport or storage of the footbridge 10. In the collapsed position, two segments 14 or 18 preferably remain connected by the connection assembly 42, and more particularly by the axial connector 128 extending through the pivot hole 116 (FIG. 4), but are pivoted relative to one another such that the segments 14 or 18 are proximal to one another, and more preferably such that the segments 14 or 18 are substantially parallel to one another.

Referring now to FIG. 9, shown therein is the footbridge 10, in the collapsed configuration of FIGS. 8A and 8B, positioned on the roof rack 500 of a vehicle 504. As shown, the modular design of the preferred embodiment of the footbridge 10 is well-suited for easy storage and transportation. The roof rack 500 is exemplary and is not the only roof rack 500 that will conveniently carry the footbridge 10 in its collapsed configuration. For example, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/010,457, filed Dec. 13, 2005, and Ser. No. 11/511,161, filed Aug. 28, 2006; the entire content of both patent applications is hereby incorporated by reference disclose other exemplary roof racks 500 capable of carrying the footbridge 10. With some embodiments of the footbridge 10, it will be desirable to distribute the footbridge 10 with a roof rack 500 that is well-suited to its transportation. Some such roof racks 500 may even be specially-modified to carry a specific embodiment of a footbridge 10. In other embodiments, a roof rack 500 may not be necessary to transport the footbridge. For example, the footbridge 10 could be placed in the bed of a truck or the like. Similarly, the vehicle 504 is shown as a Humvee, but numerous other vehicles can be used to transport the footbridge 10.

Referring now to FIG. 10, shown therein is a partial perspective view of a footbridge 600 designed similarly to the footbridge 10 described above but with different embodiments of the connection assemblies 42A and the longitudinal members 22A. Examples of the connection assemblies 42A and the longitudinal members 22A will be described hereinafter.

The footbridge 600 preferably comprises two end segments 604 and two medial segments 608, although only one end segment 604 and medial segment 608 are shown for the purposes of clarity. Other embodiments of the footbridge 600 may comprise any number of medial segments 608 and up to two or more end segments 604. For example, the footbridge 600 may include three end segments 604 if one of the medial segments 608 includes a Y-shaped configuration. Each of the segments 604 or 608 preferably attaches to, connects to, or otherwise engages the immediately adjacent segment 604 or 608 via a pair of connection assemblies 42A.

Each of the pair of connection assemblies 42A preferably includes a first connector member 616A and a second connector member 616B. The first connector member 616A and the second connector member 616B are constructed identically to one another and each comprises one connector member 618 and two spacers 622.

Referring now to FIG. 11, shown therein is one of the connector members 618. Each of the connector members 618 comprise a width 632, one or more and preferably two connector arms 634 extending from a connector body 626. Each of the connector bodies 626 have a mating surface 636. The connector members 618 are preferably fabricated from a strong, rigid material, for example, a resin or plastic polymer, natural material(s) such as a wood or fiber based material, metal (such as steel, titanium, aluminum or blends thereof), fiber or glass based materials and combinations thereof. It will be understood that each of the connector members 618 may preferably be constructed so as to minimize the weight of the connector members 618 to reduce the overall weight of the connection assembly 42A. The connector body 626 of the connector member 618 is constructed having a generally elliptical geometric configuration, although any one of a number of differing geometric configurations, for example, square, rectangular, circular, and the like, which would be known to one skilled in the art with the present disclosure before them are likewise contemplated in accordance with the present invention. Also, the connector body 626 includes at least one connector securement aperture 630 provided to receive a fastener therethrough for securing connector members 618 together as will be discussed in greater detail later. It will be understood that two connector securement apertures 630 have been shown by way of example.

In one embodiment, the two connector arms 634 each have a width 642 and an interface surface 644. The connector arms 634 are preferably spaced apart from one another and the interface surfaces 644 are oriented oppositely such that they face away from one another. It will be understood that the distance that the connector arms 634 are spaced apart from one another depends on the size of longitudinal members 22A that they are disposed within, as will be discussed in greater detail herein.

In one embodiment, the interface surfaces 644 of the connector arms 634 may include a plurality of spacer guides 646 defining spacer grooves 650 for interfacing with a spacer 622. The plurality of spacer guides 646 defining spacer grooves 650 can be geometrically configured as substantially square shaped teeth fabricated onto the interface surfaces 644 of the connector arms 634, although it will be understood that the plurality of spacer guides 646 defining spacer grooves 650 may be geometrically configured having any number of shapes, for example, elliptical, rectangular, triangular, irregular, dovetail or the like. It will be understood that although the connector arms 634 have been disclosed as having a plurality of spacer guides 646 defining spacer grooves 650 for interfacing with a spacer 622, any securable configuration for joining the connector arms 634 and spacers 622 may likewise be utilized in accordance with the present invention. It will also be understood that although the connector member 618 is shown as having two connector arms 634, the number of connector arms 634, either greater or fewer, may be dictated according to design requirements.

Additionally, the width 642 of the connector arms 634 may be wider than the width 632 of the connector body 626. The difference in widths between the connector arms 634 and the connector body 626 allows for the cooperative mating of two connector members 618 together as shown in FIGS. 14A-C.

Furthermore, the connector arms 634 may be disposed at an angle θ relative to the connector body 626 (see FIG. 10). The angle θ at which the connector arms 634 extend relative to the connector body 626 define the angle at which the segments 604 and 608 are disposed relative to one another. The greater the angle θ, the greater the angle formed between the connection of segments 604 and 608.

Referring to FIGS. 10, 12 and 13, spacers 622 are shown as having an engaging surface 662, a connector interface surface 664 and a spacer portion 666. Spacers 622 are preferably constructed of a durable, resilient and non-reactive material, for example, fiberglass, carbon fiber, fiber reinforced polymers, carbon-fiber reinforced plastics, glass reinforced plastics, ceramic matrix, short and long fiber reinforced plastics. It will be understood that the spacers 622 may be coated with a non-reactive material, rather than fabricated entirely from the non-reactive material. In one embodiment, the spacers 622 are provided to prevent galvanic corrosion caused by the connector bodies 626 interfacing directly with the segments 604 and 608 or the longitudinal members 22A (see FIG. 10), although the spacers 622 may be utilized to prevent additional types of adverse reactions between the connector bodies 626 and the segments 604 and 608 in addition to galvanic corrosion. It will be understood that the spacers 622 may preferably be constructed so as to minimize the weight of the spacers 622 to reduce the overall weight of the connection assemblies 42A.

The engaging surface 662 of the spacers 622 are fabricated such that they adjoin with at least a portion of the segments 604 and 608, for example, the longitudinal members 22A. A fastener, for example, an adhesive, rivet or the like, may secure the engaging surface 662 to at least a portion of the segments 604 and 608 to secure the connection therebetween.

The connector interface surface 664 of the spacers 622 may include a plurality of connector guides 668 defining connector grooves 672. The plurality of connector guides 668 defining connector grooves 672 are constructed to mate with the plurality of spacer guides 646 defining spacer grooves 650 of the connector arms 634. Also, an optional fastener, for example, an adhesive, may be disposed between the connector grooves 672 of the spacers 622 and the spacer grooves 650 of the connector arms 634 to secure the connection therebetween. The spacers 622 may be fabricated having a wedge or tapered configuration and may be fabricated having a length longer than that of the connector arms 634 of the connector members 618 in order to provide a greater area of contact between the longitudinal members 22A and the connection assembly 42A. The spacer portion 666 is preferably constructed as a vertical member extending from the spacer 622 oppositely oriented from the interface surface 664. The spacer portion 666 operates to separate the longitudinal members 22A from the connector bodies 626 of the connector members 618 to prevent galvanic corrosion or other adverse reactions therebetween.

Referring now to FIGS. 14A-C collectively, once the spacers 622 are joined with the connector arms 634 of the connector members 618, they form the first connector member 616A. It will be understood that the second connector member 616B is constructed identically to the first connector member 616A.

Referring back to FIG. 10, to interface segments 604 and 608 via connection assemblies 42A, each of the segments 604 or 608 are provided with two longitudinal members 22A connected to a lower surface 680 of opposite terminal ends 682 of the segments 604 and 608. For purposes of clarity, only one half of the longitudinal members 22A connected to the segments 604 and 608 have been shown. The longitudinal members 22A are fabricated having a substantially tubular configuration, although other configurations which would be known to one skilled in the art with the present disclosure before them are likewise contemplated in accordance with the present invention. Each of the longitudinal members 22A comprises an internal region 670 for receiving at least a portion of the connection assembly 42A. The longitudinal members 22A are connected to the lower surface 680 of the edges of segments 604 and 608 by, for example, an adhesive, a rivet, a nut and bolt fastener, a clip, or the like.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 14A-C collectively, to construct a portion of a footbridge 600 the end segment 604 of the footbridge 600 is provided with two first connector members 616A of the connection assembly 42A, one for each of the longitudinal members 22A. The first connector members 616A are disposed within and secured within the internal regions 670 of the longitudinal members 22A that are connected to the lower surface 680 of the end segment 604 as discussed previously. The medial segment 608 of the footbridge 600 is provided with at least four of the second connector members 616B of the connection assembly 42A that is, one for each end of the longitudinal members 22A. The connector member 616B is disposed within and secured within the internal region 670 of the longitudinal member 22A connected to the lower surface 680 of the medial segment 608 as discussed previously.

It will be understood that the second connector member 616B is oppositely oriented to the first connector member 616A so that the mating surfaces 636 of the connector members 618 are in a face-to-face relationship with one another such that the connector members 618 and therefore the first connector member 616A and the second connector member 616B may cooperatively mate with one another to form the connection assembly 42A (see FIG. 14B).

Next, the end segment 604 and the medial segment 608 are connected together by bringing the connector securement apertures 630 of the connector bodies 626 in axial alignment. Once the connector securement apertures 630 of the connector bodies 626 of the connector members 618 have been axially aligned, a fastener, for example, a threaded fastener 638 is placed through each of the connector securement apertures 630 and secured with a threaded nut 639 to join the segments 604 and 608 of the footbridge 600 together. Although the segments 604 and 608 have been disclosed as being secured together via a threaded nut and bolt fastener, other fasteners, for example, a pin, that would be known by one of ordinary skill in the art with the present disclosure before them are likewise contemplated for use. This operation is repeated, joining additional segments, either medial segments 608 or end segments 604, until a footbridge 600 having a desired length has been constructed.

Also, although not shown, a second connection assembly constructed identically to the connection assembly 42A is provided on the opposite side of the segments 604 and 608 such that each of the segments 604 and 608 are connected by two connection assemblies 42A on opposite sides.

Although not shown, in an additional embodiment, the connector members 618 of the connector assemblies 42A may be constructed such that they pivot similarly to the connector assembly 42 of FIG. 4. This configuration allows the footbridge 600 to be deployed in a substantially arcuate bridge configuration or a substantially straight ladder configuration as illustrated in FIG. 7 and FIG. 1 respectively.

Furthermore, although the connection assembly 42A has been disclosed for use with a modular footbridge 600, the connection assembly 42A may likewise be utilized in any number of applications, for example, truss fabrication, building construction, or any other application that would benefit from overall weight reduction and prevention of galvanic corrosion or other adverse reactions between connection assemblies and structural components.

Changes may be made in the construction and the operation of the various components, elements and assemblies described herein or in the steps or the sequence of steps of the methods described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A modular footbridge, comprising: two or more bridge segments, each of the bridge segments having at least a portion of one or more connector assemblies connected thereto for engaging two of the two or more bridge segments, each connector assembly comprising: a first connector member and a second connector member, each connector member comprising: a connector body having at least one connector arm extending from the connector body; andat least one spacer separating the at least one connector arm and the connector body from the bridge segments; andwherein one bridge segment is provided with the first connector member and is connectable to another adjacently disposed bridge segment having the second connector member by connecting the first connector member to the second connector member.

2. The modular footbridge of claim 1, wherein the connector arm comprises a spacer interface portion having a plurality of spacer guides defining spacer grooves and the spacers comprise a connector interface surface comprising a plurality of connector guides defining connector grooves, wherein the spacers are secured to the connector arms via mating the plurality of spacer guides defining spacer grooves of the connector arms with the plurality of connector guides defining connector grooves of the spacers.

3. The modular footbridge of claim 1, wherein the spacers are constructed of different material than the first and second connector members.

4. The modular footbridge of claim 1, wherein the at least one connector arm and the connector bodies each comprise a width and wherein the width of the at least one connector arm is greater than the width of the connector bodies such that two connector bodies may mate together when the connector bodies are in face-to-face relation.

5. The modular footbridge of claim 1, wherein the spacers are constructed of a nonreactive material.

6. The modular footbridge of claim 5, wherein the nonreactive material of the spacers are selected from the group consisting of: fiberglass, carbon fiber, fiber reinforced polymers, carbon-fiber reinforced plastics, glass reinforced plastics, ceramic matrix or short and long fiber reinforced plastics.

7. The modular footbridge of claim 1, wherein the connector arms of the connector members comprise terminal ends and the spacers comprise terminal ends and when a connector member and a spacer are connected together, the terminal end of the spacer extends further than the terminal end of the connector member.

8. The modular footbridge of claim 1, further comprising: one or more stiffener straps selectively connected to at least two of the two or more bridge segments to at least partially support the footbridge when the bridge segments are substantially secured together.

9. The modular footbridge of claim 1, further comprising: two or more anchor members each engaging one of the bridge segments; and,one or more stiffener straps selectively connected to at least two of the two or more anchor members to at least partially support the footbridge when the bridge segments are substantially secured together.

10. The modular footbridge of claim 9, wherein the two or more anchor members comprise four anchor members, the one or more stiffener straps comprise two stiffener straps, and wherein a first of the two stiffener straps is selectively connected to a first and second of the four anchor members and the second of the two stiffener straps is selectively connected to a third and fourth of the four anchor members.

11. The modular footbridge of claim 10, wherein the two or more bridge segments each have first and second lateral sides, and wherein the anchor members engage the bridge segments and the stiffener straps are selectively connected to the anchor members such that each of the stiffener straps extends between the first and second lateral sides of the bridge segments.

12. The modular footbridge of claim 1, wherein the two or more bridge segments comprises two end bridge segments and two medial bridge segments disposed between the two end bridge segments, and wherein the one or more connection assemblies comprises six connection assemblies.

13. The modular footbridge of claim 12, further comprising: two or more anchor members each engaging one of the bridge segments; and, one or more stiffener straps selectively connected to at least two of the two or more anchor members to at least partially support the footbridge when the bridge segments are substantially secured together.

14. The modular footbridge of claim 13, wherein the two or more anchor members comprise four anchor members, the one or more stiffener straps comprise two stiffener straps, and wherein a first of the two stiffener straps is selectively connected to a first and second of the four anchor members and the second of the two stiffener straps is selectively connected to a third and fourth of the four anchor members.

15. The modular footbridge of claim 14, wherein the first and third anchor members engage a first one of the two end bridge segments, and wherein the second and fourth anchor members engage the other of the two end bridge segments.

16. The modular footbridge of claim 15, wherein the end and medial bridge segments each have first and second lateral sides, and wherein the anchor members engage the end bridge segments and the stiffener straps are selectively connected to the anchor members such that each of the stiffener straps extends between the first and second lateral sides of the end bridge segments.

17. The modular footbridge of claim 1, wherein the bridge segments each have two or more longitudinal members in spaced-apart relation, and a plurality of horizontal members extending between at least two of the two or more longitudinal members

18. The modular footbridge of claim 17, wherein the bridge segments each have an upper side and a lower side and wherein the upper side of each bridge segment further includes a walking surface at least partially supported by one or more of the longitudinal members and the horizontal members.

19. A connection assembly for connecting two or more bridge segments of a modular footbridge, the connection assembly comprising: a first connector member and a second connector member, each connector member comprising: a connector body having two connector arms extending from the connector body; anda spacer connected to each of the two connector arms separating the two connector arms and the connector body from the bridge segment; andwherein one bridge segment is provided with the first connector member and is connectable to another adjacently disposed bridge segment having the second connector member by connecting the first connector member to the second connector member.

20. The connection assembly of claim 19, wherein the connector arms comprise a spacer interface portion having a plurality of spacer guides defining spacer grooves and the spacers comprise a connector interface surface comprising a plurality of connector guides defining connector grooves, wherein the spacers are secured to the connector arms via mating the plurality of spacer guides defining spacer grooves of the connector arms with the plurality of connector guides defining connector grooves of the spacers.

21. The connection assembly of claim 19, wherein the spacers are constructed of different material than the first and second connector members.

22. The connection assembly of claim 19, wherein the at least one connector arm and the connector bodies each comprise a width and wherein the width of the at least one connector arm is greater than the width of the connector bodies such that two connector bodies may mate together when the connector bodies are in face-to-face relation.

23. The connection assembly of claim 19, wherein the spacers are constructed of a nonreactive material.

24. The connection assembly of claim 23, wherein the nonreactive material of the spacers are selected from the group consisting of: fiberglass, carbon fiber, fiber reinforced polymers, carbon-fiber reinforced plastics, glass reinforced plastics, ceramic matrix or short and long fiber reinforced plastics.

25. The connection assembly of claim 19, wherein the connector arms of the connector members comprise terminal ends and the spacers comprise terminal ends and when a connector member and a spacer are connected together, the terminal end of the spacer extends further than the terminal end of the connector member.

26. The modular footbridge of claim 19, wherein the bridge segments each have two or more longitudinal members in spaced-apart relation, each of the two or more longitudinal members are configured to receive at least a portion of the connection assembly therein.

27. A modular footbridge, comprising: two or more bridge segments, each of the bridge segments having two or more longitudinal members in spaced-apart relation, each of the two or more longitudinal members are configured to receive at least a portion of a connection assembly therein for engaging two of the two or more bridge segments, each connector assembly comprising:a first connector member and a second connector member, each connector member comprising: a connector body having two connector arms extending from the connector body; anda spacer connected to each of the two connector arms, the spacer separating the two connector arms and the connector body from the bridge segments to reduce corrosion therebetween;wherein the spacers connected to the two connector arms of the first connector member are disposed within the longitudinal member of one bridge segment and the spacers connected to the two connector arms of the second connector member are disposed within the longitudinal member of an adjacent bridge segment such that the bridge segments are connected together by aligning the first connector member with the second connector member and securing them together.