Various aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to a deployable platform, and more specifically to a bridge assembly made from the deployable platforms.
Temporary building structures are used to serve one or more functions during a limited time period. For example, in military operations, temporary building structures are used to provide dwellings for soldiers, act as a barrier against inclement weather, and/or provide a command center for forward operating bases. In other instances, temporary building structures can be used to traverse terrain.
According to aspects of the present disclosure, a platform panel is disclosed. The panel includes a core having a top surface and a bottom surface. The core has a composite skin disposed on the top surface and the bottom surface of the core. Further, recessed pockets having a fastener port. Moreover, the panel includes a first hinge member disposed on a first side of the core, and a second hinge member disposed on an opposing side of the core in relation to the first hinge member.
According to additional aspects of the present disclosure, a platform panel is disclosed. The panel includes a core having a top surface and a bottom surface. The core has a composite skin disposed on the top surface and the bottom surface of the core. Further, the panel also has a positioner disposed on the bottom surface of the core. Moreover, the panel includes a first hinge member disposed on a first side of the core, and a second hinge member disposed on an opposing side of the core in relation to the first hinge member.
According to further aspects of the present disclosure, a ramp panel is disclosed. The ramp panel has a core having a top surface and a bottom surface. The ramp panel includes a composite skin disposed on the top surface and the bottom surface of the core. The ramp panel also includes a connection edge having members that selectively fasten to the core, and a beveled edge that opposes the connection edge, wherein when in use, the beveled edge rests on a ground surface.
According to yet further aspects of the present disclosure, a deployable bridge deck assembly is disclosed. The bridge deck assembly incorporates aspects of the platform panel and the ramp panel. The bridge deck assembly has two ramp panels, with each ramp panel having a core, a composite skin, and a ramp attachment as described herein. Moreover, the bridge deck assembly has a platform panel disposed between the two ramp panels, the platform panel having a core, a composite skin a positioner, and a first and second hinge member as described herein.
Bridges and similar mechanisms are commonly used to cross gaps or traverse over undesirable terrain (e.g., rivers, cliffs, etc.). While effective, bridges can take considerable time, planning, and resources to construct. In instances where a bridge is anticipated to be used for many years, expending the time and resources toward constructing the bridge is usually justifiable.
However, in some instances such as military operations, a bridge may see limited use (e.g., the bridge is used a few times to move a forward operating base from one area to another), or multiple bridges may be needed during the course of the military operation. In such instances, expending time, planning, and resources to build a permanent bridge becomes inefficient and/or undesirable. Moreover, if the military operation is in hostile territory, there is an added risk of personnel being attacked while constructing the bridge.
Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure are directed toward a lightweight, rapidly-deployable platform solution that can serve as a bridge or deck for gap crossing. In various implementations, the platform panels include integrated hardpoints and recessed pockets for attachment to underlying structures. Moreover, in multiple configurations, the platform panels can fold or stack “accordion style” to stow and deploy for easier transport as described in greater detail herein.
Platform Panel
Referring to the figures, and particularly
The core 102 may comprise a single material or a combination of materials such as carbon fiber, fiberglass, fiberglass reinforced resin, foam (e.g., polymer foam), honeycomb material, polyethelene teraphalate (PET), metals, wood, stiffening materials, etc. Moreover, the core 102 may vary in thickness depending on user needs and materials that are used. Preferably, materials that have a high strength to weight ratio (i.e., high strength and low weight), are utilized for the core 102. Materials such as aluminum, while functional, may be heavier than desired for users that are moving multiple platform panels with frequency.
Moreover, the platform panel 100 comprises a composite skin disposed on the top surface 104 and the bottom surface 106 of the core 102. In
In various embodiments, the composite skin on the top surface 104 of the core 102 has a thickness greater than the composite skin on the bottom surface 106 of the core 102 to account for compressive forces and other external forces such as vehicles and/or personnel that traverse over the platform panel 100. Moreover, in addition to (or alternative to) the composite skin varying in thickness, the composite skin may also vary in uniformity.
In multiple examples, the composite skin has non-uniform thickness to increase surface area or provide more traction (or “grip”) for vehicles and/or personnel traversing over the platform panel 100. For instance, the composite skin may form undulations. In other implementations, grip tape or similar mechanisms can be added to the top surface 104 of the core 102 for enhanced traction. Moreover, the skin on a bottom of the panel may be nonuniform.
In various embodiments, the platform panel 100 further comprises a rigid frame 108 disposed around a periphery of the core 102 as shown in
The rigid frame 108 may further comprise various hardpoints 110 that provide numerous functions. For example, the hardpoints 110 may be used to move or maneuver the platform panel 100. In addition, the hardpoints can be used to serve as an anchor or tie-down point for mechanical attachments to secure the platform panel 100 to another structure (e.g., feeding rope or webbing through the hardpoint 110 to connect to a cross-beam).
In this regard, the platform panel 100 may also utilize a recessed pocket 112 disposed on the top surface 104 of the core 102, which includes one or more fastener ports 114 disposed within the recessed pocket 112. Examples of fasteners that are suitable for use in conjunction with the fastener port include, but are not limited to clamps, over-center latches, J-hooks, locks (e.g., twist locks, cam locks, lever locks, etc.), ratchets, etc.
The recessed pocket 112 provides numerous benefits. For instance, the recessed pocket 112 allows a user of the platform panel 100 to fasten the platform panel 100 to an underlying structure (e.g., support structures, suspension structures (e.g., I-beam, rails, etc.), etc.) without the fastener sticking out above the top surface 104.
Having the fastener disposed within the recessed pocket 112 minimizes, or even eliminates, the possibility of a fastener creating a road hazard that may damage vehicles passing over the platform panel. Having the fastener disposed within the recessed pocket 112 also allows users to deploy or lay an additional layer or surface (e.g., sheet metal, asphalt, etc.) without being obstructed by the fastener.
The recessed pocket 112 also provides a larger area for more complex and/or larger fasteners (or coupling members) to be used without being a road hazard as described herein.
In addition, the recessed pocket 112 and fastening port 114 also allows users to re-use fasteners without damaging the platform panel 100. In existing solutions, fasteners such as screws, nails, rivets, etc. are punched through platforms to secure the platform to the underlying structure, thus causing damage to the platform.
Conversely, the recessed pocket 112 and fastening port 114 allow users to use non-damaging fasteners and couplers (e.g., ratchets, clamps, etc.) without damaging the platform panel 100, thus increasing longevity of the platform panel as well as minimizing time spent deployment/stowing the platform panel 100.
In multiple implementations, the platform panel 100 further comprises a receiving port 120 for attachment to an adjacent panel (e.g., another platform panel, or a ramp panel as described in greater detail herein). In multiple implementations, the receiving port 120 is a hollow hardpoint (similar to the hardpoints in the frame discussed above). In some such implementations, the hollow hardpoint allows a fastener (such as a solid pin) to have a small degree of freedom (or “play”) to allow panels into interconnect at various angles.
In multiple embodiments, more than one receiving port 120 is used as indicated by the boxes in dashed lines. In this regard, not all platform panels disclosed herein utilize a receiving port 120. In various embodiments, only platform panels that couple to ramp panels utilize a receiving port 120 as described in greater detail herein.
Conversely, the platform 100b does not have a spacer between the second hinge member 118 and the platform 100b. The spacer 122 compensates for an offset “O” created by coupling the platform panel 100a to the platform panel 100b via the first hinge member 116 and the second hinge member 118 as shown in
Without the spacer 122 compensating for the offset “0”, a series of platform panels (e.g., 100a, 100b, 100c, . . . 100n) would zip-zag or stagger from one another when deployed (i.e., the series of panels would not deploy in a straight line), which can lead to other complications. While the hinge members 116 and 118 can utilize various geometries, the geometry shown in
In various embodiments, the first hinge member 116 and/or the second hinge member 118 further comprise a cut-out portion 124 (e.g., flutes, channels, etc.) for weight reduction.
Now referring to
The platform panel 300 comprises a positioner 330 coupled to the bottom surface 306 of the core 302. The positioner 330 acts as a barrier that prevents structures from encroaching a center line “C” of the platform panel 300.
For instance, if the platform panel 300 is deployed over a first support structure “SS1” and a second support structure “SS2”, both of which are capable of lateral movement toward the center line “C”, the positioner 330 may prevent the first support structure “SS1” and the second support structure “SS2” from getting too close to the center line “C”, which may cause instability. Moreover, the positioner 330 also aids in maintaining the platform panel 300 in a desired orientation and further stabilizes the platform panel 300.
In embodiments associated with
In various embodiments, the positioner 330 can be locked in place (e.g., by a nylon lock nut) when stowed, and selectively released (e.g., by a quick-release pin). In various embodiments, the positioner 330 the positioner hingedly swings (e.g., via hinges) toward an outside edge of the core 302.
In yet further embodiments, the positioner 330 can be tethered to the platform panel 300 so that the positioner 330 does not exceed a predefined rotation or travel distance (e.g., positioner is tethered to panel to prevent over-rotation beyond 90°).
Now referring to
In
Now referring to
In
As the series of platform panels begin deployment, subsequent platform panels, which are connected via hinge members (see e.g., 114 and 166 in
Reference numbers 406a and 406b, which are bottom surfaces of the platform panel 100a and 100b respectively, are shown for context.
Correspondingly, the series of platform panels can be stowed by reversing deployment, which results in a compact or stowed configuration illustrated by platform panels 400c, 400d, 400e, and 400f. In various embodiments, the series of platform panels can be retracted or stowed by using a winch or ratchet that connections to one or more hardpoints (e.g., 410a). While each panel within the series of panels is illustrated with hardpoints, in practice, hardpoints may be limited to specific panels (e.g., every other panel, patterned (every other adjacent panel has hardpoints that are adjacent to one another), etc.).
The stowed configuration illustrated in
In an alternative configuration, the series of platform panels can be deployed or “rolled” off of a barrel or spool. In another alternative configuration, the series of platform panels slide or telescope to deploy. In multiple implementations, deployment of the series of platform panels is done autonomously.
Aspects of the present disclosure also contemplate integrating a truss or railing system that deploys with the series of platform panels.
Ramp Panel
In addition to platform panels as disclosed herein, aspects of the present disclosure include one or more ramp panels that serve as transitions between a ground surface and a corresponding platform panel.
Now referring to
In this regard, the core 502 and composite skin of the ramp panel 500 are analogous to cores and composite skins as described herein (e.g., core 102 in
In other instances, the core 502 of the ramp panel 500 may have a greater thickness than that of the platform panel. Moreover, the core 502 of the ramp panel 500 may use compositional materials at higher densities, thus making the core 502 more stiff and/or rigid. In yet another instance, the core 502 may be constructed so that the core 502 bends under pressure, as opposed to compressing under pressure as is the case with some platform panels described herein (i.e., bending action vs compressive action).
Further, the ramp panel 500 comprises a connection edge 508 coupled to the core 502, wherein the connection edge 508 comprises a member that fastens to an adjacent panel as described in greater detail herein. In multiple embodiments, the member is an extruded pin.
Yet further, the ramp panel 500 comprises a beveled edge 510 that opposes the connection edge 508, wherein when in use, the beveled edge 510 rests on a ground surface.
In multiple examples, the composite skin has non-uniform thickness to increase surface area or to provide more traction (or “grip”) for vehicles and/or personnel traversing over the ramp panel 500. For instance, the composite skin may form undulations. In other implementations, grip tape or similar mechanisms can be added to the top surface 504 of the core 502 for enhanced traction.
Now referring to
One advantage of a removable (or swappable) connections edge 508 is that the ramp panel 500 can be adapted to accommodate various ground angles that a user may encounter. Moreover, different fasteners are better suited for more demanding loads. Thus, a swappable connection edge 508 that uses different fasteners may be beneficial.
In
Bridge Deck Assembly
In
Moreover, the first ramp panel comprises a connection edge 708 coupled to the core 704, wherein the connection edge 708 comprises members 710 (see. e.g., fasteners 512 in
Yet further, the first ramp panel 702 comprises a beveled edge 712 that opposes the connection edge 708, wherein when in use, the beveled edge 712 rests on a ground surface (e.g., GS1). In various embodiments, the first ramp panel 702 further comprises a first grip member 714 (e.g., grip tape) or a similar mechanism to increase traction on the top surface 706 of the first core 704.
The bridge assembly 700 further comprises a second ramp panel 716. The second ramp panel 716 is analogous to the first ramp panel 702. In this regard, the second ramp panel 716 comprises a second core 718 having a top surface 720 and a bottom surface (obscured by view). The second ramp panel 716 further comprises a composite skin disposed on the top surface 720 and the bottom surface of the second core 718. In various embodiments, the composite skin on the top surface 720 of the second core 718 has a thickness greater than the composite skin on the bottom surface of the second core 718.
Moreover, the second ramp panel 716 comprises a connection edge 722 coupled to the second core 718, wherein the connection edge 722 comprises members 724 that fasten to an adjacent panel. In addition, the second ramp panel 716 comprises a beveled edge 726 that opposes the connection edge 722, wherein when in use, the beveled edge 726 rests on a ground surface (e.g., GS2). In various embodiments, the second ramp panel 716 further comprises a second grip member 728 (e.g., grip tape) or a similar mechanism to increase traction on the top surface 720 of the second ramp panel 716.
The bridge assembly 700 also comprises a platform panel 730 disposed between the first ramp panel 702 and the second ramp panel 716. The platform panel 730 comprises a third core 732 having a top surface 734 and a bottom surface (obscured by view), and a composite skin disposed on the top surface 734 and the bottom surface of the third core 732.
Moreover, the platform panel 730 comprises a positioner (obscured by view, but is analogous to positioner 330 in
Yet further, the platform panel 730 comprises a first set of ports 736 that receive the members 710 from the first ramp panel 702. In addition, the platform panel 730 comprises a second set of ports 738 that receive the members 724 from the second ramp panel 716. While the first set of ports 736 and the second set of ports 738 are illustrated in pairs, in practical application the first set of ports 736 and/or the second set of ports 738 may be implemented as a single port, three ports, slots, or any other suitable coupler, fastener, port, etc.
In various embodiments, the platform panel 730 further comprises a recessed pocket 740 disposed on the top surface 734 of the third core 732, and a fastening port 742 disposed within the recessed pocket 740.
Aspects of the present disclosure also contemplate embodiments of a bridge assembly that comprise two or more platform panels as illustrated in
In
In addition, the bridge assembly 700 comprises a second platform panel 750 disposed between the first ramp panel 702 and the second ramp panel 716. The second platform panel 750 is analogous to the first platform panel 730, except that hinges disposed on the second platform panel 750 oppose hinge members of the first platform panel 730 as described herein.
In this regard, the second platform panel 750 comprises a third hinge member 752 disposed on a first side of the second platform 750, wherein the third hinge 752 member does not have a spacer. In addition, the second platform panel comprises a fourth hinge member 754 disposed on an opposing side of the second platform panel 750 in relation to the third hinge member 752, wherein the fourth hinge member 754 comprises a second spacer 756.
When in use, the first hinge member 744 is adjacent to the third hinge member 752, and the second hinge member 748 is adjacent to the fourth hinge member 754, thereby positioning the first spacer 746 on an opposing side of the bridge assembly 700 in relation to the second spacer 756.
In various embodiments, the second platform panel 750 further comprises a second positioner (obscured by view, but see e.g., positioner 330 in
The bridge deck assembly 700 in
Depending on material composition and an amount of platform panels used, various embodiments of the bridge assembly 700 can support vehicles up to 4,600 pounds (˜20,865 kg) over a distance of 36 feet (11 meters), while the bridge assembly 700 itself weighs less than 600 pounds (˜272 kg).
While the bridge assembly 700 in
Bridge Assembly
With continued reference to
Turning now to
Turning now to
Other features may be added to the bridging system as well. For example, the bridging system may include guard rails, guide posts, reflectors, chain guides, rope guides, drain holes, fluid channels, trusses, or combinations thereof. Further, the panels used for a bridging system may include uniform cores or nonuniform cores.
As can be seen, with the assemblies, panels, and systems described herein, a bridge may be deployed quickly cross a span: inflate spanning members, couple panels to spanning members using the hooks and straps (minimal tools required), move bridging assembly to cover the span, cross the span, remove panels, deflate spanning members, and store for later use.
Miscellaneous
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements as specifically claimed. The description of the present disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the disclosure in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Aspects of the disclosure were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the disclosure and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.
This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/876,353. filed Jul. 19, 2019, entitled DEPLOYABLE PLATFORMS, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
Number | Date | Country | |
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62876353 | Jul 2019 | US |