Various commercial applications may require a self erecting column. One application is for formation of structure to use in making a show, for example a play or concert. For example, a column may need to rise up out of the stage to raise either a performer or scenery or the like.
Self-erecting columns are known, including the Gala “spiral”, and the Serapid “link”. These devices, however, must be externally guided to prevent collapse.
Another self erecting column is the so called ribbon lift. This can be extended without guidance, but the rising may be slow and jerky; making it inappropriate for certain applications on stage such as applications where smooth operations are desirable.
The present disclosure describes a new kind of where two different separately-stored parts come together to form a lift.
In the Figures:
The present application describes a new kind of lift in which the different parts of the lift fit together like a zipper, and once together, form a self-erecting column.
The lift is stored in its non-erected position, as two separate sections of parts. Each of the sections is arranged into a spiral.
The embodiment shown in
The interlocking portions force the sprockets into registration with one another like a zipper. Each of the sprockets has a substantially curved portion 121 that is complementary to, and interlocks with, a corresponding substantially curved portion 122 on the opposite-facing sprocket. In the embodiment, the curved portions are substantially in the shape of an “S”. The sprockets also include pressing portions 123 which press against corresponding pressing portion 124 of the other sprocket. Therefore, when forced into position, the pressing portion 123 presses against the pressing portion 124, thereby holding the sprockets relative to each other.
The interlocking portion 121 interlocks with the corresponding interlocking portion 122. This provides structural strength to the extended and coupled structure. However, the two separate chain portions can be disassembled from one another.
Axles 130, 132 hold the chain parts to push them together in one direction, and to pull them apart in the other. Other surfaces in the housing may also press the chain parts together When pulled apart, the interlocking portions are removed from one another, and the pressing portions are also removed from registration with one another. Since the chains have portions that are pivotally connected to one another, these portions can be stored in any desired configuration.
Extended column 310 is a rigid vertical column.
In the embodiment, the chain is formed by aluminum, computer numerically controlled cut links 106 with bronze bushings 109 that allow the links to pivot relative to one another. The links can be machined out of ⅜″ aluminum, with quarter to half-inch steel shafting. When the links are in compression, they become very strong. The sprockets are mounted with keyless bushings to a pair of bearing mounted steel shafts.
The motor 300 may be a 3 hp AC Servo gear motor with hard limits. Other motors, e.g., 1-½ to 7 horsepower might be used in other embodiments. In an embodiment, the motor should be capable of moving at 3 ft/sec. In the embodiment, there is also an aluminum platform 320 at the top of the column, also formed of computer numerically controlled cut aluminum. This column allows for performers or external accessories.
In an embodiment, a 20 foot structural column mounts into the mounting case 200 which is a 30 inch wide by 48 inch tall by 84 inch long unit. The unit rides on casters 202, and also has 4 swing out jacks for stabilization.
An alternative embodiment is shown in
A coil that is formed by retracting of the zipper is shown in
The general structure and techniques, and more specific embodiments which can be used to effect different ways of carrying out the more general goals are described herein.
Although only a few embodiments have been disclosed in detail above, other embodiments are possible and the inventors intend these to be encompassed within this specification. The specification describes specific examples to accomplish a more general goal that may be accomplished in another way. This disclosure is intended to be exemplary, and the claims are intended to cover any modification or alternative which might be predictable to a person having ordinary skill in the art. For example, the chain can take other forms. The chain can be manually extended and retracted, or can use some other structure.
Also, the inventors intend that only those claims which use the words “means for” are intended to be interpreted under 35 USC 112, sixth paragraph. Moreover, no limitations from the specification are intended to be read into any claims, unless those limitations are expressly included in the claims.
Where a specific numerical value is mentioned herein, it should be considered that the value may be increased or decreased by 20%, while still staying within the teachings of the present application, unless some different range is specifically mentioned. Where a specified logical sense is used, the opposite logical sense is also intended to be encompassed.
This application claims priority to provisional application No. 60/952173, filed Jul. 26, 2007; the entire contents of which are herewith incorporated by reference.
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Number | Date | Country | |
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20090026018 A1 | Jan 2009 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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60952173 | Jul 2007 | US |