STAIR SYSTEM

Abstract

Stair system for outdoor building structures, such as decks are described. The stair system can include one or more perimeter frame members, one or more stair tread brackets; one or more stair tread members, and one or more fastening brackets coupled to the perimeter frame members, when in an assembled configuration.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to stair systems.

BACKGROUND

Certain building structures, e.g., a deck or other outdoor structure, may include stairs. However, in certain conventional stair systems, assembly of the stair system can be a resource intensive process and/or can be a highly technical process, which can lead to one or more assembly errors and may result in a defective stair system.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Traditional stair systems suitable for use with outdoor structures are commonly assembled using lumber as a framing material. While the techniques and processes for weather treating lumber have improved over time, the construction process remains a highly technical process that may result in structurally defective systems, aesthetically unpleasing systems, or both defective and unpleasing systems. For example, traditional lumber construction may require relatively precise measurements of multiple angles, multiple relatively precise cuts, and a relatively large number of fasteners.

Accordingly, stair systems for outdoor building structures, such as a deck, are described. Some embodiments of a stair system described herein include a first perimeter frame member and a first stair tread bracket coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration. The system also includes one or more stair tread members supported by at least a portion of the first stair tread bracket when in the assembled configuration. The system also includes one or more fastening brackets coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in the assembled configuration.

The stair tread bracket may include a coupling member and a tread support. The coupling member may be configured to couple to a top side of a perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration. Additionally, the stair tread bracket may contact a bottom surface of the one or more stair tread members, when in an assembled configuration.

A fastening bracket may include a first securing surface and a second securing surface. In some embodiments, the first securing surface and the second securing surface are orthogonal to one another, and may be shaped different from one another. The fastening bracket may be coupled to a perimeter frame member at or adjacent a first end of the perimeter frame member, and to a support structure, when in an assembled configuration.

The perimeter frame member may include a first lateral end, a second lateral end that is opposite the first lateral end, a top end, a bottom end that is opposite the top end, and a first side extending between the first lateral end and the second lateral end and extending between the top end and the bottom end. The perimeter frame member also includes a second side opposite the first side, the second side extending between the first lateral end and the second lateral end, and extending between the top end and the bottom end. The first side may include a first and second engagement member, wherein the first engagement member is adjacent the first vertical end, wherein the second engagement member is adjacent the second vertical end, and wherein a recessed portion is positioned between the first and second engagement members.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative aspects are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporated by reference herein and wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts an example stair system, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIG. 2 depicts an example perimeter frame member coupled to first and second support structures at opposing ends via fastening brackets, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIGS. 3A and 3B depict various views of a perimeter frame member, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIG. 4. depicts a close-up view of one end of the perimeter frame member of FIG. 2 coupled to the fastening bracket, with the first support structure removed, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIG. 5. depicts a close-up view of the opposing end of the perimeter frame member of FIG. 2 coupled to the fastening bracket, with the second support structure removed, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIG. 6 depicts an example fastening bracket, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIGS. 7A and 7B depict various views of a stair tread bracket coupled to a perimeter frame member, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIGS. 8A and 8B depict a left-handed stair tread bracket, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIGS. 9A and 9B depict a right-handed stair tread bracket, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIGS. 10A and 10B depict a middle stair tread bracket, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIGS. 10C and 10D depict another middle stair tread bracket, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIG. 10E depicts an enlarged portion of the middle stair tread bracket depicted in FIGS. 10C and 10D, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIGS. 11A and 11B depict various views of one or more stair tread members, particularly showing a front stair tread member and a back stair tread member, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIGS. 12A and 12B depict various views of a back stair tread member, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIGS. 13A and 13B depict various views of a front stair tread member, in accordance with aspects hereof;

FIGS. 14A-14C depict various views of a front stair tread member and back stair tread member coupled to a left stair tread bracket, and a perimeter frame member, particularly showing a receiving slot of the front stair tread member receiving at least a portion of the tread support of the left stair tread bracket, and showing an end tab of the front stair tread member engaged with a tab of the left stair tread bracket, in accordance with aspects hereof; and

FIG. 15 depicts a front stair tread member coupled to a left stair tread bracket, and a perimeter frame member, particularly showing a receiving slot of the front stair tread member receiving at least a portion of the tread support of the left stair tread bracket, and showing an end tab of the front stair tread member engaged with a tab of the left stair tread bracket, in accordance with aspects hereof.

DESCRIPTION

Aspects herein relate to stair systems. In certain aspects, the stair systems can be utilized for use with certain building structures, such as a deck or decking system. As discussed above, for certain conventional stair systems, assembly of the stair system can be a resource intensive process and/or can be a highly technical process, which can lead to one or more assembly errors and may result in a defective stair system.

The stair systems disclosed herein can alleviate one or more of the problems described above. For instance, in various aspects, the stair system can include one or more framing members, e.g., a perimeter framing member, which can include one or more structural features described herein that can facilitate interactions between various stair system components. For instance, in one aspect, one or more of the fastening brackets may interact with structural features on the framing members, which allows for increased structural integrity and/or loading, and/or may reduce the load applied to fasteners or other connections. This is unlike certain conventional systems where the structural components may be smooth in shape, which can: place the structural integrity requirements on the fasteners being used to support the structural components; increase installation time (due to the addition of added fasteners and blocking); and allow for misuse of the components. In various aspects, other stair system components can include structural features that can facilitate assembly of the stair system and reduce installation errors. For instance, in various aspects, the stair tread brackets can include a tread support, where, in an assembled configuration, such a tread support may be received in a receiving slot of the one or more stair tread members, which can aid in alignment and/or the securing of the stair tread members to the stair tread bracket and/or to other components of the stair system.

Accordingly, in one aspect, a stair system is provided. The stair system can include a first perimeter frame member; and a first stair tread bracket coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration. The stair system can also include one or more stair tread members, where the one or more stair tread members are supported by at least a portion of the first stair tread bracket when in the assembled configuration. The stair system can also include one or more fastening brackets coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in the assembled configuration.

In yet another aspect, a stair system is provided. The stair system can include a first perimeter frame member; and a second perimeter frame member spaced apart from the first perimeter frame member. The stair system can also include a first stair tread bracket coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration; and a second stair tread bracket coupled to the second perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration. The stair system can also include one or more stair tread members supported by at least a portion of the first stair tread bracket and the second stair tread bracket, when in the assembled configuration. The stair system can also include one or more first fastening brackets coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in the assembled configuration; and one or more second fastening brackets coupled to the second perimeter frame member, when in the assembled configuration.

Turning to the figures, and FIG. 1 in particular, an example stair system 100 is depicted. As can be seen in FIG. 1, at least a portion of the example stair system 100 is coupled to a support structure 101 and to another support structure, e.g., a support surface 103. In various aspects, the support structure 101 is a schematic representation of a portion of framing members of a deck, while the support surface 103 is meant to represent any surface, including but not limited to the ground, a landing, or floor. It should be understood that the support structure 101 and the support surface 103 are just example structures and surfaces for illustrating components of the stair system and that the present disclosure contemplates the stair system being utilized to secure to any suitable surface and/or structure.

In the aspect depicted in FIG. 1, the stair system 100 includes first and second perimeter frame members 202 and 204, with each perimeter frame member 202 and 204 having a plurality of stair tread brackets 302 and 304, coupled thereto, respectively. In the same or alternative aspects, the stair system 100 includes a plurality of stair tread members 400 extending between the plurality of stair tread brackets 302 and 304. It should be understood that the number of stair tread members and stair tread brackets, as well as the overall dimensions and/or shapes of the stair system are just one example and that other numbers of components, dimensions, shapes, and/or configurations are also contemplated by the disclosure herein.

In various aspects, the stair system 100 depicted in FIG. 1 may function as a support structure for deck boards and/or other components, such as posts. For instance, in various aspects not depicted in the figures, one or more deck boards can be utilized to cover the surface of the stair tread members 400. Any suitable deck boards can be utilized, such as polymer or composite-based deck boards. In such aspects, the deck boards can be secured to the stair system via fasteners, such as deck screws, that extend through the deck boards, and into (or through) the stair tread members 400. In the same or alternative aspects, one or more posts can be provided on the stair system 100. In such an example aspect, the posts can be secured to the stair system 100 with any suitable fasteners, such as bolts that extend through deck boards, stair tread members 400, or both.

FIG. 2 depicts the perimeter frame member 202 in the absence of the other stair system components of FIG. 1 to highlight the coupling of the perimeter frame member 202 to the support structure 101 and the support surface 103. As can be seen in the aspect depicted in FIG. 2, the perimeter frame member 202 is coupled to the support structure 101 at one lateral end 206 and coupled to the support surface 103 at the opposing lateral end 207. Fastening brackets 502 and 504 are utilized to couple together the perimeter frame member 202 to the support structure 101 and to the support surface 103.

FIGS. 3A and 3B depict a perimeter frame member 202 in isolation. As best seen in FIG. 3A, the perimeter frame member 202 has a two opposing lateral ends 206 and 207 and a top end 208 and a bottom end 209. As can be seen in the aspect depicted in FIG. 3B, the first side 210 of the perimeter frame member 202 can include two engagement members 211 and 212 and a recessed portion 213 positioned between the two engagement members 211 and 212. In various aspects, one or more of the engagement members 211 and 212 and/or the recessed portion 213 can provide structural elements that may aid in assembly of the stair system disclosed herein and/or of other systems, e.g., a framing system for a deck. In various aspects, the opposing side 214 of the perimeter frame member 202 is generally a single surface and/or substantially flat. As best seen in FIG. 3B, the perimeter frame member 202 can optionally include a channel 215 at the top end 208. In various aspects, one or more fasteners may be secured and/or extend into the channel, e.g., when securing a stair tread bracket to the perimeter frame member. In certain aspects, the ends 206 and 207 of the perimeter frame member 202 can be angled, such as that depicted in FIG. 3A. In such aspects, any desired angle may be utilized in order to provide the appropriate angle of the stair system and/or to provide flush interactions with the support structures and/or support surfaces.

FIG. 6 provides a close up view of the fastening bracket 504. As can be seen in the aspect depicted in FIG. 6, the fastening bracket 504 can include a first securing surface 505 and a second securing surface 507. In the same or alternative aspects, the first securing surface 505 and second securing surface 507 can be orthogonal to one another. In certain aspects, each of the first securing surface 505 and the second securing surface 507 can include one or more openings, e.g., 505a and 507a, respectively, for a fastener. In various aspects, the fastening bracket 504 can include optional indicia 503, e.g., for a preferred installation orientation. It should be understood that, while the fastening bracket 504 is described with reference to FIG. 6, the fastening bracket 502 can be identical to the fastening bracket 504, in certain aspects.

FIGS. 4 and 5 depict close up views of the ends 206 and 207 of the perimeter frame member 202 along with the respective fastening brackets 502 and 504 positioned for securing the perimeter frame member 202 to securing surfaces and/or structures. As can be seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, the fastening brackets 502 and 504 can be positioned in different orientations to interface with different structural features of the perimeter frame member 202. For instance, as can be seen in FIG. 4, the second securing surface 507 of the fastening bracket 504 is positioned within the recessed portion 213 at or adjacent the end 207 of the perimeter frame member 202. In the same or alternative aspects, an edge 507b of the second securing surface 507 of the fastening bracket 504 contacts the edge 213a of the recessed portion 213 to provide increased stability for the perimeter frame member 202. In various aspects, the first securing surface 505 of the fastening bracket 504 is positioned to be fastened to a securing surface, e.g., a landing, floor, the ground, or the like.

In FIG. 5, the first securing surface 505 of the fastening bracket 502 is coupled to the perimeter frame member 202 at or adjacent to the end 206 of the perimeter frame member 202. As can be seen in the aspect depicted in FIG. 5, a surface 505b of the first securing surface 505 may contact the engagement member 212 of the perimeter frame member 202, which may provide increased stability for the perimeter frame member 202 being secured to a securing surface, e.g., a portion of a support structure, such as a portion of a deck. In the aspect depicted in FIG. 5, the second securing surface 507 of the fastening bracket 502 is positioned for coupling to a support structure.

FIGS. 7A and 7B depict various views of a stair tread bracket 302a coupled to a perimeter frame member 202. As can be seen in the aspect depicted in FIGS. 7A and 7B, a portion of the stair tread bracket 302a, e.g., the coupling member 302b, is positioned on top of the top end 208 of the perimeter frame member 202. In the same or alternative aspects, as best seen in FIG. 7A, a tab 302d of the coupling member 302b extends down onto the side 210 of the perimeter frame member 202 to provide lateral support for the stair tread bracket 302a. In certain aspects, one or more fasteners can be utilized to secure the stair tread bracket 302a to the top end 208 of the perimeter frame member 202, e.g., via through-holes in the couple member 302b. As best seen in the aspect depicted in FIG. 7B, a support wall 302c of the stair tread bracket 302a can be flush with the side 214 of the perimeter frame member 202.

FIGS. 8A and 8B provide various views of the stair tread bracket 302a in isolation. As described above, the stair tread bracket 302a can include a coupling member 302b and a support wall 302c. The coupling member 302b can include a tab 302d to contact a side of the perimeter frame member 202, in aspects. In the same or alternative aspects, the stair tread bracket 302a can include a tread support 302e and an engagement tab 302f for interaction with one or more stair tread members, as discussed below.

FIGS. 9A and 9B depict another stair tread bracket 304a. The stair tread bracket 304a is designed to be used on the other side of stair system, e.g., for coupling and/or securing to the perimeter frame member 204 depicted in FIG. 1. The stair tread bracket 304a, in aspects, may be a mirror image of the stair tread bracket 302a discussed above. In such aspects, the stair tread bracket 304a can include the same features and/or parameters described above with reference to the stair tread bracket 302a but for use on the opposing side of the stair system. In the aspect depicted in FIGS. 9A and 9B, the stair tread bracket 304a can include a coupling member 304b and a support wall 304c. The coupling member 304b can include a tab 304d to contact a side of the perimeter frame member 204, in aspects. In the same or alternative aspects, the stair tread bracket 304a can include a tread support 304e and an engagement tab 304f for interaction with one or more stair tread members, as discussed below.

As discussed above, in certain aspects, other configurations of the stair systems are also contemplated by the disclosure herein, i.e., other stair systems than that described herein with reference to FIGS. 1-9B, and 11A-15. For instance, in certain aspects, due to the width of certain stair system configurations, a third frame member, e.g., a perimeter frame member, may be utilized to provide additional support for the stair tread members. In certain aspects, the third frame member can be positioned between the perimeter frame members 202 and 204. In such aspects, a stair tread bracket with tread support features on both sides of a support wall can be utilized. Such an example middle stair tread bracket is depicted in FIGS. 10A and 10B. The middle stair tread bracket 303 of FIGS. 10A and 10B includes a support wall 303a with tread supports 303b and 303c extending out from the two sides of the support wall 303a. The middle stair tread bracket 303 can also include tabs 303d and 303e extending out from the two sides of the support wall 303a. In the same or alternative aspects, the middle stair tread bracket 303 can include a coupling member 303f. The support wall 303a, the tread supports 303b and 303c, and the tabs 303d and 303e can function similarly to the respective components of the stair tread members 302a and 304a discussed above. In various aspects, the coupling member 303f is adapted to receive a top portion of a perimeter frame member in a channel 303g with the sides of the coupling member extending down onto both sides of the perimeter frame member. In various aspects, when in an assembled configuration, one or more tread members would be supported on the tread support 303c and extend to a tread support coupled to the perimeter frame member 202, while a separate one or more tread members would be supported on the tread support 303b and extend to a tread support coupled to the perimeter frame member 204.

As mentioned in the preceding paragraph, the middle stair tread bracket 303 provides tread support features on both sides of support wall 303a. This embodiment may facilitate configurations where a first stair tread extends from perimeter frame member 202 to middle stair tread bracket 303 and a second stair tread extends from middle stair tread bracket 303 to perimeter frame member 204. However, embodiments of a middle stair tread bracket can facilitate other configurations. For example, another middle stair tread bracket is depicted in FIGS. 10C and 10D. The middle stair tread bracket 305 of FIGS. 10C and 10D includes support wall 305a with tread supports tread supports 305b and 305c extending out from the two sides of the support wall 305a. The middle stair tread bracket 305 can also include tabs 305d and 305e extending out from the two sides of the support wall 305a. In the same or alternative aspects, the middle stair tread bracket 305 includes a coupling member 305f that can include one or more openings that pass there through, e.g., 305h, 305i, 305j, 305k, that facilitate engagement with a fastener.

The support wall 305a, the tread supports 305b and 305c, and the tabs 305d and 305e can function similarly to the respective components of the stair tread members 302a and 304a discussed above. In various aspects, the coupling member 305f is adapted to receive a top portion of a perimeter frame member in a channel 305g with the sides of the coupling member extending down onto both sides of the perimeter frame member. Middle stair tread bracket 305 can be fixed to the perimeter frame member via one or more fasteners using openings 305h, 305i, 305j, or 305k, or a combination thereof.

Additionally, middle stair tread bracket 305 includes groove 3051. Generally, grove 3051 facilitates the use of middle stair tread bracket 305 in multiple configurations of a stair. Said differently, some embodiments of grove 3051 facilitate use with support wall 305a or the intentional removal of the portion of support wall 305a above tread supports 305b and 305c. As such, and similar to middle stair tread bracket 303, inclusion of grove 3051 may facilitate embodiments where a first stair tread extends from perimeter frame member 202 to middle stair tread bracket 305 and a second stair tread extends from middle stair tread bracket 305 to perimeter frame member 204. Additionally, inclusion of grove 3051 may facilitate embodiments where a stair tread extends from perimeter frame member 202 to perimeter frame member 204 while retaining the support provided by middle stair tread bracket 305 via tread supports 305b and 305c.

Groove 3051 extends into the surface of support wall 305a to a predetermined depth. For example, support wall 305a may have a thickness that is measured from the face of support wall 305a that intersects with tread support 305b to the face of support wall 305a that intersects with tread support 305c of about 0.125 inches. In some embodiments, groove 3051 extends to a depth in an inclusive range of 0.06 inches to 0.10 inches. In at least one embodiment, the depth is about 0.063 inches. In at least one embodiment, the depth is 0.063 inches. In at least one embodiment, the predetermined depth is about 0.092 inches. In at least one embodiment, the predetermined depth is 0.092 inches.

Said another way, groove 3051 may be formed by the intentional removal of a portion of the material of support wall 305a. The remaining portion 305m of support wall 305a that is contiguous with groove 3051 may have a thickness in an inclusive range 0.065 inches to 0.025 inches. In at least one embodiment, the thickness of remaining portion 305m is about 0.063 inches. In at least one embodiment, the thickness of the remaining portion 305m is about 0.033 inches.

As depicted, a first portion of groove 3051 may extend along and parallel to the top surface of tread support 305b. A second portion of groove 3051 may extend along and parallel to the top surface of coupling member 305f. The first portion of groove 3051 and the second portion of groove 3051 may merge proximate the point where the top surface of tread support 305b and the top surface of coupling member 305f merge.

Alternatively, in at least one embodiment, the first portion of groove 3051 may extend along and parallel to the top surface of tread support 305c. The second portion of groove 3051 may extend along and parallel to the top surface of coupling member 305f. The first portion of groove 3051 and the second portion of groove 3051 may merge proximate the point where the top surface of tread support 305c and the top surface of coupling member 305f merge.

FIGS. 11A and 11B depict various views of one or more stair tread members 410. In the aspect depicted in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the one or more stair tread members 410 extend from a first end 410a to a second end 410b. In various aspects, in an assembled configuration, the first end 410a would engage with a stair tread bracket, e.g., the stair tread bracket 302a coupled to the perimeter frame member 202, while the second end 410b would engage with a stair tread bracket, e.g., the stair tread bracket 304a coupled to the perimeter frame member 204.

In the aspect depicted in FIGS. 11A and 11B, the one or more stair tread members 410 includes a back stair tread member 420 and a front stair tread member 430. In certain aspects, one or more fasteners can be utilized to secure the front stair tread member 430 to the back stair tread member 420. It should be understood that, while the one or more stair tread members 410 in FIGS. 11A and 11B are depicted as two separate tread members coupled together, other numbers of stair tread members are also contemplated by the disclosure herein, including the use of a single stair tread member.

FIGS. 12A and 12B depict the back stair tread member 420 in isolation. As best seen in the side view of the back stair tread member 420 depicted in FIG. 12B, the top surface 420a includes a recessed portion 420b. The bottom surface 420c of the back stair tread member 420 depicted in FIG. 12B includes a receiving tab 420d, for receiving a tab of the front stair tread member 430.

FIGS. 13A and 13B depict the front stair tread member 430 in isolation. As best seen in the side view of the front stair tread member 430 depicted in FIG. 13B, the top surface 430a includes a recessed portion 430b, which can receive a portion of the back stair tread member 420, as best seen in FIG. 11B. In the aspect depicted in FIG. 13B, the front stair tread member 430 includes a tab 430c for engagement with the receiving tab 420d of the back stair tread member 420, as best seen in FIG. 11B.

In certain aspects, such as that depicted in FIG. 13B, the front stair tread member 430 can include a receiving slot 430d for receiving at least a portion of a stair tread support from a stair tread bracket and/or can include an end tab 430e for engaging with an engagement tab of a stair tread bracket.

FIGS. 14A-14C depict various views of one or more stair tread members 410 coupled to a stair tread bracket 302a. In the aspect depicted in FIGS. 14A-14C, the one or more stair tread members 410 include a front stair tread member 430 and a back stair tread member 420, and are assembled in the manner discussed above with respect to FIGS. 11A and 11B. In the aspect depicted in FIGS. 14A-14C, the stair tread bracket 302a is coupled and/or secured to the perimeter frame member 202 as discussed above, with respect to FIGS. 7A and 7B.

As best seen in FIG. 14C, the bottom surface 420c of the back stair tread member 420 and a bottom surface 430f of the front stair tread member 430 are contacting the top of the tread support 302e of the stair tread support bracket 302a. Further, in the aspect depicted in FIG. 14C, a portion of the tread support 302e of the tread support bracket 302a is positioned in the receiving slot 430d of the front stair tread member 430, and the end tab 430e of the front stair tread member 430 is engaged with the engagement tab 302f of the front stair tread member 430. In such aspects, these interactions between the tread support bracket 302a and the front stair tread 430 can aid in securing the stair system from upward movements and or can provide support to prevent the front stair tread from forward movement.

While not shown in FIGS. 14A-14C, in various aspects, the open end of the one or more stair tread members 410, when in an assembled configuration, would be secured and/or engage with a stair tread bracket on another perimeter frame member, e.g., the stair tread bracket 304a that can be coupled to the perimeter frame member 204. In such aspects, the interactions of the stair tread bracket 304a with the perimeter frame member 204, and of the stair tread bracket 304a with the one or more stair tread members 410 can include any or all of the parameters discussed above with respect to the stair tread bracket 302a and the perimeter frame member 202. In the same or alternative aspects, any number of stairs can be provided in a stair system, and any or all such stairs can be assembled in the manner disclosed herein. For instance, another one or more stair tread members can be coupled to another stair tread bracket that is secured to the perimeter frame member 202 and to another stair tread bracket that is secured to the perimeter frame member 204.

In various aspects, to assemble the one or more stair tread members onto a stair tread bracket, a front stair tread member may be first coupled and/or secured to a stair tread bracket. For example, as can be seen in FIG. 15, the front stair tread bracket 430 is coupled to and/or secured to the stair tread bracket 302a, which is secured and/or coupled to the perimeter frame member 202. In certain aspects, in a second step, a back stair tread member, e.g. the back stair tread member 420 can be dropped into place, such as the position depicted in FIG. 11B. As discussed above, in aspects, the front stair tread member 430 and the back stair tread member 420 may then be secured to one another and/or to the stair tread bracket 302a.

As used herein the term “about” is used to account for variations in manufacturing tolerances. Accordingly, as used herein about is defined as plus or minus 5% of the stated value in the relevant unit of measure.

As used herein and in connection with the claims listed hereinafter, the terminology “any of clauses” or similar variations of said terminology is intended to be interpreted such that features of claims/clauses may be combined in any combination. For example, an exemplary clause 4 may indicate the method/apparatus of any of clauses 1 through 3, which is intended to be interpreted such that features of clause 1 and clause 4 may be combined, elements of clause 2 and clause 4 may be combined, elements of clause 3 and 4 may be combined, elements of clauses 1, 2, and 4 may be combined, elements of clauses 2, 3, and 4 may be combined, elements of clauses 1, 2, 3, and 4 may be combined, and/or other variations. Further, the terminology “any of clauses” or similar variations of said terminology is intended to include “any one of clauses” or other variations of such terminology, as indicated by some of the examples provided above.

Clause 1. A stair system, the stair system comprising: a first perimeter frame member; a first stair tread bracket coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration; one or more stair tread members, wherein the one or more stair tread members are supported by at least a portion of the first stair tread bracket when in the assembled configuration; and one or more fastening brackets coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in the assembled configuration.

Clause 2. The stair system of clause 1, wherein the one or more fastening brackets comprises first and second fastening brackets.

Clause 3. The stair system of clause 2, wherein each of the first and second fastening brackets comprises a first securing surface and a second securing surface, wherein the first securing surface and the second securing surface are orthogonal to one another, and wherein the first securing surface and the second securing surface are shaped different from one another.

Clause 4. The stair system of clause 3, wherein the first fastening bracket is coupled to: the first perimeter frame member at or adjacent a first end of the first perimeter frame member; and to a first support structure, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 5. The stair system of clause 4, wherein the first securing surface of the first fastening bracket contacts a first side of the first perimeter frame member, and the second securing surface of the first fastening bracket contacts the first support structure, when in the assembled configuration.

Clause 6. The stair system of any of clauses 3-5, wherein the second fastening bracket is coupled to: the first perimeter frame member at or adjacent a second end of the first perimeter frame member; and to a second support structure, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 7. The stair system of clause 6, wherein the second securing surface of the second fastening bracket is coupled to the first side of the first perimeter frame member, and wherein the first securing surface of the second fastening bracket is coupled to the second support structure, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 8. The stair system of clause 7, wherein the second securing surface of the second fastening bracket is positioned at least partly within a recessed portion of the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 9. The stair system of any of clauses 1-8, wherein the first stair tread bracket comprises a coupling member and a tread support.

Clause 10. The stair system of clause 9, wherein the coupling member of the first stair tread bracket is coupled to a top side of the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 11. The stair system of clause 9 or 10, wherein the tread support of the first stair tread bracket contacts a bottom surface of the one or more stair tread members, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 12. The stair system of any of clauses 1-11, wherein the one or more stair tread members comprises a front stair tread member and a back stair tread member.

Clause 13. The stair system of clause 12, wherein the front stair tread member is coupled to the back stair tread member via a tab of the front stair tread member and a complementary-shaped receiving tab of the back stair tread member, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 14. The stair system of any of clauses 1-13, wherein the one or more stair tread members comprise a top surface having one or more recessed portions.

Clause 15. The stair system of any of clause 9-14, wherein the first stair tread bracket further comprises an engagement tab that interacts with an end tab of the one or more stair tread members, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 16. The stair system of any of clauses 9-15, wherein the one or more stair tread members comprises a receiving slot for receiving at least a portion of the tread support of the first stair tread bracket, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 17. The stair system of clause 16, wherein the receiving slot of the one or more stair tread members extends from a first side to a second side of the one or more stair tread members.

Clause 18. The stair system of clause 17, wherein the receiving slot of the one or more stair tread members further receives at least a portion of a tread support of a second stair tread bracket, wherein the first stair tread bracket is positioned at the first side of the one or more stair tread members and the second stair tread bracket is positioned at the second side of the one or more stair tread members, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 19. The stair system of clause 18, wherein the second stair tread bracket is coupled to a second perimeter frame member, wherein the second perimeter frame member is spaced apart from the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration.

Clause 20. The stair system of any of clause 1-19, wherein the first perimeter frame member comprises a first lateral end; a second lateral end that is opposite the first lateral end; a top end; a bottom end that is opposite the top end; a first side extending between the first lateral end and the second lateral end, and extending between the top end and the bottom end; a second side opposite the first side, the second side extending between the first lateral end and the second lateral end, and extending between the top end and the bottom end; wherein the first side comprises first and second engagement members, wherein the first engagement member is adjacent the first vertical end, wherein the second engagement member is adjacent the second vertical end, and wherein a recessed portion is positioned between the first and second engagement members.

Clause 21. A stair system, the stair system comprising: a first perimeter frame member; a second perimeter frame member spaced apart from the first perimeter frame member; a first stair tread bracket coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration; a second stair tread bracket coupled to the second perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration; one or more stair tread members supported by at least a portion of the first stair tread bracket and the second stair tread bracket, when in the assembled configuration; one or more first fastening brackets coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in the assembled configuration; and one or more second fastening brackets coupled to the second perimeter frame member, when in the assembled configuration.

From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set forth together with other advantages which are obvious and which are inherent to the structure.

It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims.

While specific elements and steps are discussed in connection to one another, it is understood that any element and/or steps provided herein is contemplated as being combinable with any other elements and/or steps regardless of explicit provision of the same while still being within the scope provided herein. Since many possible embodiments may be made of the disclosure without departing from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matter herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. A stair system, the stair system comprising: a first perimeter frame member;a first stair tread bracket coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration;one or more stair tread members, wherein the one or more stair tread members are supported by at least a portion of the first stair tread bracket when in the assembled configuration; andone or more fastening brackets coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in the assembled configuration.

2. The stair system of claim 1, wherein the one or more fastening brackets comprises first and second fastening brackets.

3. The stair system of claim 2, wherein each of the first and second fastening brackets comprises a first securing surface and a second securing surface, wherein the first securing surface and the second securing surface are orthogonal to one another, and wherein the first securing surface and the second securing surface are shaped different from one another.

4. The stair system of claim 3, wherein the first fastening bracket is coupled to: the first perimeter frame member at or adjacent a first end of the first perimeter frame member; and to a first support structure, when in an assembled configuration.

5. The stair system of claim 4, wherein the first securing surface of the first fastening bracket contacts a first side of the first perimeter frame member, and the second securing surface of the first fastening bracket contacts the first support structure, when in the assembled configuration.

6. The stair system of claim 4, wherein the second fastening bracket is coupled to: the first perimeter frame member at or adjacent a second end of the first perimeter frame member; and to a second support structure, when in an assembled configuration.

7. The stair system of claim 6, wherein the second securing surface of the second fastening bracket is coupled to the first side of the first perimeter frame member, and wherein the first securing surface of the second fastening bracket is coupled to the second support structure, when in an assembled configuration.

8. The stair system of claim 7, wherein the second securing surface of the second fastening bracket is positioned at least partly within a recessed portion of the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration.

9. The stair system of claim 1, wherein the first stair tread bracket comprises a coupling member and a tread support.

10. The stair system of claim 9, wherein the coupling member of the first stair tread bracket is coupled to a top side of the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration.

11. The stair system of claim 10, wherein the tread support of the first stair tread bracket contacts a bottom surface of the one or more stair tread members, when in an assembled configuration.

12. The stair system of claim 9, wherein the one or more stair tread members comprises a front stair tread member and a back stair tread member.

13. The stair system of claim 12, wherein the front stair tread member is coupled to the back stair tread member via a tab of the front stair tread member and a complementary-shaped receiving tab of the back stair tread member, when in an assembled configuration.

14. The stair system of claim 13, wherein the one or more stair tread members comprise a top surface having one or more recessed portions.

15. The stair system of claim 9, wherein the first stair tread bracket further comprises an engagement tab that interacts with an end tab of the one or more stair tread members, when in an assembled configuration.

16. The stair system of claim 9, wherein the one or more stair tread members comprises a receiving slot for receiving at least a portion of the tread support of the first stair tread bracket, when in an assembled configuration.

17. The stair system of claim 16, wherein the receiving slot of the one or more stair tread members extends from a first side to a second side of the one or more stair tread members.

18. The stair system of claim 17, wherein the receiving slot of the one or more stair tread members further receives at least a portion of a tread support of a second stair tread bracket, wherein the first stair tread bracket is positioned at the first side of the one or more stair tread members and the second stair tread bracket is positioned at the second side of the one or more stair tread members, when in an assembled configuration.

19. The stair system of claim 1, wherein the first perimeter frame member comprises a first lateral end; a second lateral end that is opposite the first lateral end; a top end; a bottom end that is opposite the top end; a first side extending between the first lateral end and the second lateral end, and extending between the top end and the bottom end; a second side opposite the first side, the second side extending between the first lateral end and the second lateral end, and extending between the top end and the bottom end; wherein the first side comprises first and second engagement members, wherein the first engagement member is adjacent the first vertical end, wherein the second engagement member is adjacent the second vertical end, and wherein a recessed portion is positioned between the first and second engagement members.

20. A stair system, the stair system comprising: a first perimeter frame member;a second perimeter frame member spaced apart from the first perimeter frame member;a first stair tread bracket coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration;a second stair tread bracket coupled to the second perimeter frame member, when in an assembled configuration;one or more stair tread members supported by at least a portion of the first stair tread bracket and the second stair tread bracket, when in the assembled configuration;one or more first fastening brackets coupled to the first perimeter frame member, when in the assembled configuration; andone or more second fastening brackets coupled to the second perimeter frame member, when in the assembled configuration.