Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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SYSTEM FOR ASSEMBLING A LOAD-BEARING SUPPORT STRUCTURE,
AND STRUCTURE ASSEMBLED WITH SUCH A SYSTEM
Field of the invention:
The present invention relates to a system for assembling a load-bearing
support structure. More particularly, in its preferred intended use, the
present
invention relates to a system for assembling a mountable and demountable load-
bearing support structure, the system being used for mounting, whether
provisionally or permanently, corresponding structures, such as stages and the
like, which are typically used for entertainment purposes and/or special
events.
The present invention also relates a support structure having been assembled
with the system, and to a method of assembling associated thereto.
Background of the invention:
Systems for assembling support structures and the like are well known in
the art. Known to the Applicant are the following US patent and patent
applications: 4,090,340; 4,685,258; 4,843,792; 5,259,690; 5,848,501;
5,964,068;
6,006,680; 6,106,186; 6,467,118 B2; 6,581,339 B2; 6,681,981 B2; 6,922,947 B2;
2001/0015045 Al; 2004/0005430 Al; 2004/0020154 Al; 2004/0123529 Al; and
2005/0144857 Al.
It is also well known in the art that, from the moment stage designers
wished to use scenic space differently than in a traditional theatre, problems
with
temporary or semi-permanent load-bearing structures appeared. The properties
required to answer their needs evolved in such a manner that they became
contradictory: a) "lightness for transportation", manual handling and visual
aspect;
b) "sturdiness" for load-bearing capacity, for the capability of integrating
other
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scenic elements and for security concerns; c) optimization of the "minimal
number of components" and hardware to facilitate the transfer of the special
events from city to city while reducing the set up time; and d) a "better use
of
space" for equipment storage or the planning of the working space for
technicians
underneath the structures.
It is also well known that no integrated system existed to completely satisfy
these multiple needs emanating from the stage designer's innovative concepts.
This is why load-bearing structures destined for entertainment purposes and/or
special business events, and the like, to this day, come from the combination
of
various components designed for other usages.
Indeed, the first modern temporary stages were laid out on flat bed semi-
trailers onto which one built a temporary proscenium structure made of plywood
and wooden beams on site. The limitations of this installation method were
rapidly reached mainly due to the limited performance area of the stage space,
the complexity and difficulty to render the installation secure, the
impossibility to
anchor the complex scenic elements, and the costly and long set up time.
Moving
the "stage" was done by pinning a tractor to the front of the trailer as with
standard trucks. Understandably, this limited this arrangement to exterior
events
or to theatres and/or amphitheatres able to accommodate a tractor-trailer
combination.
Modular scaffolding typically used in the construction business was
another option. This system could be used indoors or outdoors, permits a
larger
performance area and also made adding supplemental technical spaces easier
(stage manager's booth, sound and lighting control booths, etc.).
The following description of the main components of this system as used in
the scenic domain, namely, a) the section of structure secured with cross-
bracing
and guy wiring; b) the beam system for the installation of floor and floor
panels;
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and c) the planning of ramps and special configurations; will highlight the
inconveniences and limitations of each aspect of such a conventional system.
In regards to the section of structure secured with cross-bracing and guy
wiring, the reinforcement of scaffolding sections with cross-braces and guy
wires
allows a certain point load and dynamic load capacity. However, in a scenic
use,
the limit of these loads is quickly reached. Indeed, by adding dynamic
elements
like a stage elevator or a mechanized trap, the scaffolding structure is
solicited in
upward motion and in torsion, forces for which it is not designed. Therefore,
to
permit their integration to the scaffold stage base, it is necessary that the
scenic
elements have their own structure. The task thus becomes complex since
standard scaffolding components limit the possible configurations.
From a more practical point of view, the set of legs and cross-braces
located under and in the scaffold structure prevents the optimization of the
"so-
called" utilitarian space under the floor for technical planning, storage or
dressing
rooms.
In regards to the beam system for the installation of floor and floor panels,
to be maintained in place, the beams must be previously attached onto sections
of scaffolding. Next, sheets of plywood to make-up the floor must be fixed
onto
the beams. This process of assembly quickly becomes cumbersome in time and
in manpower. To ensure the required structural capacities, the multiplication
of
beams becomes necessary as, for example, with the "AlumabeamTm" type
system. This hydride beam results from the combination of an "I" shape
aluminium piece that embeds a piece of wood allowing the screwing down of the
plywood sheets.
Floor panels are in fact plywood sheets superimposed in two (2) staggered
layers. Plywood has a limited point of load bearing, a restricted dynamic load
bearing and a weak resilience capacity. To fulfill its role efficiently, the
plywood
must necessarily be installed with a set of beams to constitute the floor or
to
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permit the integration of a scenic element. In that case, the removal of
plywood
sheets (for traps, elevators etc.) is often required and inevitably implies
the
addition of vertical and lateral supports after having made the required
analysis of
the necessary load distribution.
There exists another type of floor panel among the standard scaffoldings
components: the aluminium structure with inset plywood deck. These are laid
out
side-by-side along the width of the scaffolding sections rendering the
screwing
down of additional plywood sheets possible.
Among the inconveniences of using plywood sheets in fabricating the floor
are the rapid wear of the plywood sheets due to the constant screwing and
unscrewing, the need for repeated application of paint on the surface,
breakage
due to handling and transport, loss of material due to cuts for adjusting
finished
contours of the installation, the multiplication of costs due to the doubling
of
plywood sheets as well as the overall handling. Here, the term "handling" is
used
to designate the work team and the rental of machinery for the loading,
installation and dismantling of the scaffolding's structural components.
In regards to the planning of ramps and special configurations, with the
system of modular scaffolding, the integration of ramps and levels for lowered
or
raised floors is complex. Indeed, the structural components used are governed
by
layouts in pre-established widths and lengths and do not offer the required
flexibility.
It is also well known in the art that the principle of a stage using hydraulic
deployment, such as StagelineTM, is another type of installation. It is made-
up of
one (1) 45'- or 53'-long trailer of which the two (2) sides fold down using
hydraulic
actuators to form a floor. The roofs of the trailers are on hydraulic
cylinders, and
once raised to the correct height, they spread out in width in order to become
the
roof over the stage. It is an effective system offering several advantages
such as
its set-up time, the protection that it offers against the weather, and good
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structural capacities. This stage can be used both outdoors and indoors (in
the
big amphitheatres). On the other hand, some inconveniences exist, namely: a)
confined stage area because enlarging the stage, if required, must necessarily
be
done by adding scaffolding or another type of temporary structure; b)
specialized
man-power is required; c) high rental costs; d) impossibility of integrating
dynamic
stage equipment (turntables, elevators, traps, etc.); and e) this type of
stage only
offers a unique layout.
It is also known in the art that the WengerTM stage is another type of
temporary structure. Intended for interior use, it consists of platforms with
removable telescoping legs. The surface of this platform is made of MDF,
encased in a galvanized steel or aluminium frame. The installation is
relatively
simple: butting together plafforms whose legs are extended and using stirrups,
positioned under the platforms, to join them together. To facilitate the
adjustment
of platforms one to the other, some fabricators integrate fastenings elements
such as the Rotoloc under the MDF sheets. This is a two-part attachment
device, operated from above the panel with an hexagonal key, that permits the
lateral locking of one part to the other.
The main inconveniences of this type of stage are several, namely: a) the
assembly area must be relatively level; b) the joining system between
platforms is
under the platforms and difficult of access; c) it is impossible to screw
directly into
the floor surface of this platform; d) to conceal the metal edges of the
assembled
platforms, double-sided tape is laid along the edges allowing the laying of
one or
two (2) thicknesses of plywood on top of the platforms - the procedure meets
three (3) objectives: to give a regular surface to the assembly, to allow for
a
screwing surface for the setting up of scenery, and finally, for aesthetic
requirements; e) the assembled platforms do not permit an equal spread of
loads
between them; f) the RotolocTM system used between the platforms has no
structural value since in does not allow for torsion nor for load-bearing; g)
the
anchoring and/or integration of dynamic elements, either mechanized or not, is
not possible unless one modifies the platform permanently; h) at the time of
the
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application of a dynamic load, a whole series of measures are required to
maintain the structural properties of the platforms - these include re-
enforcing and
stabilising the platform assembly; and i) the assembly of a large area using
this
platform type with a height lower than about 30cm becomes difficult since the
adjustment of the stirrups takes place under the platforms - additionally, the
available heights of the telescopic legs are limited.
It is also known in the art that the folding wooden parallel platform is a
rudimentary and temporary structure, traditionally used for opera and theatre
for
certain limited applications. For installation, the wooden structures are
unfolded
and then joined together by screwing them one to the other. Next, plywood
sheets are laid on the structures and screwed in place. The doubling of
plywood
sheets is generally required to prevent the deflection of the floor in its
center, to
increase the structural capacity of the surface and to give a uniform floor
surface
finish.
This folding wooden parallel platform presents the following
inconveniences, namely: a) the friability of the material used to build these
platforms limits the life expectancy and the reliability in a frequent set up
and tear
down context and its resistance to the elements (exterior use); b) the
assembly of
a large area is labour intensive; c) the plywood floor panels are not bonded
to the
overall structure but only to the individual platform; d) the anchoring of the
scenic
elements becomes hazardous; e) costly set-up and adjustment times; f) height
is
limited; g) the levelling of the structure is complex; and h) the admissible
static
and dynamic loads are limited. At the most, this type of platform is still
used for
raising a scenic component or a musical set-up on stage in the case of indoor
theatre or a covered outdoor stage.
Hence, in light of the aforementioned, there is a need for an improved
system which would be able to overcome some of the aforementioned prior art
problems.
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Summary of the invention:
An object of the present invention is to provide a system which, by virtue of
its design and components, satisfies some of the above-mentioned needs and
which is thus an improvement over other related systems and/or methods known
in the prior art.
In accordance with the present invention, the above object is achieved with
a system for assembling a load-bearing support structure, the system
comprising:
at least one supporting member, said at least one supporting member
comprising an upper surface, and opposite first and second end surfaces, the
upper surface being provided with at least one section comprising at least one
bulge protruding from said upper surface;
at least one connecting member for connecting said at least one
supporting member to at least one other member; and
at least one complementary member for affixing onto at least one of said at
least one supporting member, said at least one complementary member
comprising at least one orifice being positioned, shaped and sized for
inserting
into the at least one bulge of a corresponding supporting member so as to form
the load-bearing support structure;
wherein each end surface of each supporting member comprises a pair of
upper and lower connecting flanges, said pair of upper and lower connecting
flanges being connectable to a corresponding pair of upper and lower
connecting
flanges of the least one connecting member.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is also
provided a system for assembling a load-bearing support structure, the system
comprising:
at least one supporting member, said at least one supporting member
comprising an upper surface, and opposite first and second end surfaces, the
upper surface being provided with at least one section comprising at least one
bulge protruding from said upper surface;
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at least one connecting member for connecting said at least one
supporting member to at least one other member; and
at least one complementary member for affixing onto at least one of said at
least one supporting member, said at least one complementary member
comprising at least one orifice being positioned, shaped and sized for
inserting
into the at least one bulge of a corresponding supporting member so as to form
the load-bearing support structure;
wherein the at least one connecting member has opposite first and second
end surfaces, and opposite front and rear end surfaces, the first and second
surfaces of the at least one connecting member being each provided with a
least
one connecting flange, each connecting flange being connectable with a
corresponding connecting flange of the at least one supporting member; and
wherein the at least one connecting flange comprises a pair of upper and
lower connecting flanges, said pair of upper and lower connecting flanges
being
connectable to a corresponding pair of upper and lower connecting flanges of
the
least one supporting member.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is also
provided a system for assembling a load-bearing support structure, the system
comprising:
at least one supporting member, said at least one supporting member
comprising an upper surface, and opposite first and second end surfaces, the
upper surface being provided with at least one section comprising at least one
bulge protruding from said upper surface, the at least one supporting member
also comprising at least one slot;
at least one connecting member for connecting said at least one
supporting member to at least one other member; and
at least one complementary member for affixing onto at least one of said at
least one supporting member, said at least one complementary member
comprising at least one orifice being positioned, shaped and sized for
inserting
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into the at least one bulge of a corresponding supporting member so as to form
the load-bearing support structure;
wherein the system further comprises at least one securing member
cooperable between the at least one complementary member and the at least
one supporting member for securing said at least one complementary member
onto said at least one supporting member, the at least one securing member
comprising:
a casing having opposite upper and lower ends; and
a fastener extending within the casing and being displaceable thereabout,
the fastener being insertable through a corresponding slot of the at least one
supporting member, said fastener having a first extremity provided with a head
and an opposite second extremity extendable beyond the lower end of the casing
for receiving a locking tee positionable via the fastener beyond the
corresponding
slot of the at least one supporting member, the locking tee being cooperable
with
said fastener and said corresponding slot so that a rotation of the fastener
via its
head operatively urges the locking tee towards the head of the fastener and in
abutment with an underside portion of the corresponding slot, so as to
operatively
clamp the at least one supporting member between the casing and the locking
tee of the at least one securing member.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided
a load-bearing support structure assembled with either one of the above-
mentioned systems.
According to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided
a method of assembling a system such as the one briefly described herein and
such as the one exemplified in the accompanying drawings.
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According to another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided
a method of mounting the above-mentioned structure.
According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is also
provided a method of manufacturing and/or assembling the various components
of the above-mentioned system and/or structure.
As aforementioned, and as will be explained in greater detail hereinbelow,
the system according to the present invention preferably comprises three (3)
main different types of components, namely at least one supporting member
(hereinafter referred to also as "open shell truss" or simply "OST"), at least
one
connecting member (hereinafter referred to also as a "quad bowtie connector"
or
simply "QBC"), and at least one complementary member (such as a floor panel,
for example, and the like). Preferably also, the present invention further
includes
at least one securing member (hereinafter referred to also as a "push, turn
and
lock" system or simply "PTL"), which preferably includes male and female
components, as will also be explained in greater detail hereinbelow. The above-
mentioned components of the system and others thereof may be provided in a
plurality of numbers and interconnected to each other via different
corresponding
configurations so as to mount a variety of assorted load-bearing support
structures.
The objects, advantages, and other features of the present invention will
become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description
of preferred embodiments thereof, given for the purpose of exemplification
only,
with reference to the accompanying drawings.
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Brief description of the drawings:
Figure 1 is a partial exploded view of a load-bearing support structure to be
mounted with a system according to a first preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the supporting member ("open shell
truss") shown in Figure 1.
Figure 3 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 2.
Figure 4 is a top view of what is shown in Figure 3.
Figure 5 is a side view of what is shown in Figure 3.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a connecting member ("quad bowtie
connector") according to a first preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
Figure 7 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 6.
Figure 8 is a top view of what is shown in Figure 7.
Figure 9 is a side view of what is shown in Figure 7.
Figure 10 is a perspective view of a connecting member ("quad bowtie
connector") according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
Figure 11 is a partial exploded view of a securing member ("push, turn and
lock" system), including male and female components thereof, cooperating with
a
complementary member (e.g. panel surface) according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
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Figure 12 is a side elevational view of the securing member ("push, turn
and lock" system) shown in Figure 11, said securing member ("push, turn and
lock" system) being shown in an assembled configuration.
Figure 13 is atop view of what is shown in Figure 12.
Figure 14 is a sectional view taken along line B-B of what is shown in
Figure 12.
Figure 15 is an underside view of the male component of the securing
member ("push, turn and lock" system) shown in Figure 11.
Figure 16 is a perspective view of a male component of the securing
member ("push, turn and lock" system) according to a preferred embodiment of
the present invention.
Figure 17 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 16.
Figure 18 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 17.
Figure 19 is a sectional view taken along line A-A of what is shown in
Figure 17.
Figure 20 is an exploded view of what is shown in Figure 16.
Detailed description of preferred embodiments of the invention:
In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar
elements. The embodiments, dimensions and/or loads shown in the figures
and/or mentioned herein are preferred, given for exemplification purposes
only.
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Moreover, although the present invention was primarily designed for
mounting stages and the like, it may be used for mounting other types of
objects
and/or other types of load-bearing or supporting structures, as apparent to a
person skilled in the art. For this reason, expressions such as "stage",
"entertainment", "installation", "support", "structure", etc., used herein
should not
be taken as to limit the scope of the present invention and includes all other
kinds
of objects and/or applications with which the present invention could be used
and
may be useful.
Moreover, in the context of the present invention, the expressions "device",
"system" and "kit", as well as any other equivalent expressions and/or
compound
words thereof, may be used interchangeably. The same applies for any other
mutually equivalent expressions, such as "support", "stage", "installation",
and
"structure" for example, as well as "panel", and "floor", as well as
"component"
and "member", as well as "first" and "vertical", and also "assembling",
"mounting"
and "forming", and/or any derivatives thereof, which will also be used
interchangeably in the context of the present invention, as also apparent to a
person skilled in the art.
In addition, although the preferred embodiments of the present invention
as illustrated in the accompanying drawings comprises various components, and
although the preferred embodiments of the system and corresponding
components as shown consist of certain geometrical configurations and
orientations as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these components,
geometries and orientations are essential to the invention and thus should not
be
taken in their restrictive sense, i.e. should not be taken so as to limit the
scope of
the present invention. It is to be understood, as also apparent to a person
skilled
in the art, that other suitable components and cooperations thereinbetween, as
well as other suitable geometrical configurations and orientations may be used
for
the system and corresponding components/members according to the present
invention, as will be briefly explained herein and as can be easily inferred
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herefrom, without departing from the scope of the present invention, as can
also
be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
Broadly described, the system according to the present invention, is a
system for assembling a support structure, such as stages and the like, for
example, and/or any other type of supporting structure, preferably in a
mountable
and demountable manner, as will be easily understood from the present
description by a person skilled in the art. Indeed, the system according to
the
present invention is a system of structural components/members for temporary
or
permanent mounting of fixed installations or touring installations that
preferably
includes three (3) main different types of components, namely at least one
supporting member (hereinafter referred to also as "open shell truss" or
simply
"OST"), at least one connecting member (hereinafter referred to also as a
"quad
bowtie connector" or simply "QBC"), and at least one complementary member
(such as a floor panel, and the like), as well as a preferred fourth
component,
namely at least one securing member (hereinafter referred to also as a "push,
turn and lock" system or simply "PTL"), which preferably includes male and
female components, as will also be explained in greater detail hereinbelow,
each
of the above-mentioned components being provided in suitable numbers and
interconnected to one another, as will also be explained in greater detail
hereinbelow, in order to be able to mount different varieties and assortments
of
load-bearing support structures.
According to the preferred intended use, these structures preferably
consist of stages as used in the entertainment world and/or for special
events,
such as conferences and the like, and the structures may consist of temporary
mounted or permanently fixed installations or touring applications.
List of numerical references and corresponding preferred components
illustrated:
1. system
100. supporting member (open shell truss ("OST"))
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101. surface of the supporting member (e.g. laser cut steel plate)
102. connecting flange of the supporting member
200. connecting member (quad bowtie connector ("QBC"))
201. connecting flange of the connecting member (e.g. laser cut steel
plate)
202. locking point for the truss support
203. slit
204. channel
300. securing member (push, turn and lock ("PTL") system)
300a. male component (of the "PTL")
301a. pressure bolt
302a. washer
303a. spring
304a. casing
305a. guiding sleeve
306a. locking cross tee
307a. recess of the casing
300b. female component (of the "PTL")
301b. optional pate of the QBC (e.g. laser cut steel plate)
302b. bulge
303b. slots
304b. folded cut out (e.g. thrust)
305b. slit
306b. orientation cut out
According to the present invention, and as exemplified in the
accompanying drawings, namely Figure 1, the system for assembling a load-
bearing support structure comprises at least one supporting member, at least
one
connecting member, and at least one complementary member (typically, a floor
panel and/or the like, although other structural or decorative members could
be
used with the present invention). Each supporting member, as better
exemplified
in Figures 1-5, preferably comprises an upper surface, and opposite first and
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second end surfaces, the upper surface being provided with at least one
section
comprising at least one bulge protruding from said upper surface. Each
connecting member, as better exemplified in Figures 1 and 6-10, is preferably
used for connecting at least one supporting member to at least one other
member
(whether a supporting member, another connecting member, yet another
component of the system and/or another component separate from the system,
such a fixed wall, for example). Each complementary member (such as a floor
panel, for example, as better shown in Figure 1) is preferably used for
affixing
onto at least one of the supporting members, and preferably comprises at least
one "orifice" (whether hole, cavity, recess, receptacle, and the like) being
positioned, shaped and sized for inserting into a corresponding bulge of a
corresponding supporting member, as better shown in Figure 1, so as form the
load-bearing support structure.
Preferably, each concerned section of the upper surface of a supporting
member comprises at least two bulges, each bulge being used for receiving a
corresponding complementary member of the system. Preferably also, and
advantageously, each concerned section of the supporting member comprises
four of such bulges, so that a given section can preferably receive four
corresponding complementary members (e.g. separate corners of four different
floor panels) of the system, as can be easily understood when referring to
Figure
1.
Preferably also, the four bulges are positioned about the upper surface of
the at least one supporting member so as to form a rectangular configuration,
but
according to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the four
bulges
are positioned about the upper surface of the supporting member so as to form
a
square configuration, as better shown in Figures 2 and 4.
Preferably also, the upper surface of the supporting member comprises
first and second of the aforementioned sections, said two sections being
positioned respectively on opposite end sections of the upper surface of the
at
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least one suppporting member, as well as, preferably, a third section
comprising
at least one bulge (preferably, at least two bulges, and according to the
preferred
embodiment of the invention, four of such bulges, as above-discussed). This
third
section is preferably positioned between the first and section sections,
substantially at a midpoint section of the upper surface of the supporting
member,
as better shown in Figures 1-5, but it is to be understood that according to
the
present invention, more that one of such mid-sections could be provided on the
upper surface of the supporting member, and that these mid-sections would be
preferably positioned equidistantly from one another, between the first and
second opposite end sections.
Each end surface of each supporting member is preferably provided with a
least one connecting flange, each connecting flange being connectable with a
corresponding connecting flange of the at least one connecting member,
typically
by means of a corresponding connecting device, such as a pin, bolt, and/or the
like. Preferably, each end surface of the supporting member comprises upper
and
lower connecting flanges, said upper and lower connecting flanges being
connectable to corresponding upper and lower connecting flanges of a
corresponding connecting member. According to the preferred embodiment of the
present invention, each end surface of the supporting member comprises a pair
of upper and lower connecting flanges, said pair of upper and lower connecting
flanges being connectable to a corresponding pair of upper and lower
connecting
flanges of a corresponding connecting member, and/or other member.
As better exemplified in Figures 1-5, each supporting member preferably
comprises a lower surface, opposite to the upper surface thereof, and further
comprises opposite front and rear surfaces. Preferably also, each supporting
member has a substantially hollow and substantially rectangular cross-section.
Preferably also, at least one surface of each supporting member, preferably
the
upper, lower, front and rear surfaces thereof, is provided with perforated
areas.
According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, each
supporting
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member is an open shell truss, referred to also herein as "OST", as previously
mentioned.
Figure 1 shows a partial perspective view of a load-bearing support
structure to be mounted according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the different components thereof being shown in an exploded
relationship. As shown, the system according to the present invention may also
preferably comprise corresponding structure supports or legs, with adjusting
srew
jacks and the like, for example, which could also be replaced by any other
suitable stable supports known in the business, as apparent to a person
skilled in
the art, so as to provide for a suitable clearance underneath the load-bearing
structure assembled with the system according to the present invention.
Referring again to Figures 1-5, there is shown different views of an open
shell truss ("OST") according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
As shown, the OST preferably comprises laser cut steel plates (i.e.
"surfaces"),
as well as corresponding pins and sleeve connecting flanges, as
aforementioned.
The laser cut steel plates are preferably plates designed to optimize their
strength and limit their weight. Preferably also, rectangular slits
selectively
provided on the plates permit a precise assembly of the preferred four plates
that
make up the peripheral cross-sectional area of the truss. Once assembled,
these
slits can also serve as locations for plug welds. Since, according to its
preferred
embodiment, it is of substantially hollow design, the galvanization of the
whole
truss is possible and allows for exterior use of the structure. It is worth
mentioning
also that several modifications could be made to these particular components
and
features of the open shell truss. Namely, the material used for this assembly
of
plates can be any other suitable structural material that offers sturdiness
and
load-bearing capability, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
Furthermore,
the dimensions, height, width and thickness of the plates can also be adapted
to
the load requirements of the particular application for which the open shell
truss is
intended for, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art.
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
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. . ,
17
The pin and sleeve connecting plates of the open shell truss are preferably
double-steel plates at each end of the truss with two connecting points to
join the
truss to a quad bowtie connector, as will be explained hereinbelow. The
vertical
distance between the connecting points offers the stability required to avoid
bracing the legs that are supporting the structure. This is true within a
reasonable
height of installation, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. The
joining of the
truss to its connection can be done in a variety of suitable manners, but
according
to the present invention, is preferably done by either pins, or in case of
permanent installation, by bolts, as aforementioned.
It is worth mentioning however that the connecting points for the truss can
be any suitable corresponding support offering the proper structural capacity,
and
that the truss can be installed at an angle (vertical or other), if required,
since the
connecting points (upper and lower connecting flanges) are preferably designed
to support by themselves the total load at the end of the truss, as can be
easily
understood by a person skilled in the art.
Moreover, the truss could be used with or without the securing member
(push, turn and lock system) of the present invention to anchor a
complementary
member (e.g. floor structure). Indeed, instead of securing members,
scenographic layouts could require another mechanical anchoring which is
possible to adapt to the truss considering its design, as can also be easily
understood by a person skilled in the art.
Referring now to Figures 6-10, there is shown a connecting member
according to preferred embodiments of the present invention. Indeed, each
connecting member preferably has opposite first and second end surfaces, and
opposite front and rear end surfaces (i.e. four sides), the first and second
end
surfaces of the connecting member being each provided with a least one
connecting flange, each conecting flange being connectable with a
corresponding
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
. . . 18
connecting flange of the at least one supporting member, as better shown in
Figure 1.
Each end surface of the connecting member, whether first, second, front
and/or rear, is preferably provided with upper and lower connecting flanges,
said
upper and lower connecting flanges being connectable to corresponding upper
and lower connecting flanges of at least one other member (whether a
supporting
member, another connecting member, yet another component of the system
and/or another component separate from the system, such a fixed wall, for
example). According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention, each
end surface of the connecting member, whether first, second, front and/or
rear, is
provided with a pair of such upper and lower connecting flanges, as better
shown
in Figures 6-10.
Preferably also, each connecting flange of the system comprises a hole so
that a corresponding connecting flange of a connecting member, or other
member, may be removably connectable onto a corresponding connecting flange
of a supporting member, or other member, by means of a corresponding pin,
bolt,
or other, insertable into said two corresponding holes.
Preferably also, and as better shown in Figures 6 and 8, each supporting
member comprises a channel defined within said at least one supporting member
and extending from a lower surface to an upper surface thereto, the channel
being preferably configured for receiving therein an additional component of
the
system, such a support leg with an adjusting screw jack, for example, as
aforementioned and as exemplified in Figure 1.
Alternatively, and for some other particular applications of the present
system and/or desired end results, the upper surface of the connecting member
could be provided with a plate comprising at least one bulge (preferably two
bulges, and even more preferably, four bulges) protruding from said upper
surface for receiving a corresponding orifice of a corresponding complementary
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
. = 19
member (e.g. floor panel) of the system, as above-discussed. Preferably also,
the
plate comprises a slot adjacent to each bulge of the plate for receiving a
corresponding component of a corresponding member (e.g. a securing member)
of the system, as will be explained in greater detail hereinbelow when
referring to
Figures 11-20.
Referring back to Figures 6-10, illustrating different views of the quad
bowtie connector ("QBC") according to preferred embodiments of the present
invention, it can be easily understood that this component may be used on its
top
part as a floor panel anchoring point or a receptacle for stacking structures.
As illustrated, the QBC preferably comprises laser cut steel plates (i.e.
"connecting flanges" and supports thereof defining the inner channel of the
connecting member) which are preferably steel plates embedded together to form
a quadruple connecting point (four connecting faces or sides) for the open
shell
truss or other components to be used with the system according to the present
invention. Each side can preferably receive one end of a truss. Each
connecting
point on one side of a QBC (top and bottom) is preferably designed to support
alone the load imposed by a truss and its different floor panels.
It is worth mentioning that several modifications could also be made to the
above-described component, namely on corners of the scene layout, for example.
Indeed, the connecting points not used for the truss support could allow for
guardrails, facings, or scenographic elements to be hung or anchored thereon,
as
aforementioned when referring to other components which could be used with the
present invention, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
The QBC also comprises locking points for the truss support, and these
holes with the proper tolerance are preferably designed to secure the legs or
supports that keep the truss leveled, as can be easily understood when
referring
to Figure 1. Pins or bolts can be used depending on the structural
requirements.
If the top part of the QBC is used for the anchoring of the floor panels, then
only
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
". .
' . =
20
one hole is necessary, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. It is worth
mentioning however that the number of locking points on each QBC can be
greater if the design of the scenographic structure requires it, as also
apparent to
a person skilled in the art.
As also better illustrated in Figures 6-10, the QBC preferably comprises
rectangular slits. As on the truss, these preferred rectangular slits in the
plates
allow for a precise assembly of the preferred four plates that make up the
truss.
Once assembled, the slits also serve as plug welds locations.
It is to be understood also that the quad bowtie connector can allow, on its
top part, a securing member (i.e. female part of the PTL) for the floor
structure, as
better illustrated in Figure 10 (option2), or an opening where one could
insert
another support (a leg, for example) to create another structure on top, as
aforementioned and as can be easily understood when referring to Figure 6
(option 1). As previously explained, the number of locking points is then
increased, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
According to a preferred and advantageous embodiment of the present
invention, the system further comprises at least one securing member, as
better
exemplified in Figures 11-20, cooperable between the at least one
complementary member and the at least one supporting member for securing
said at least one complementary member onto said at least one supporting
member, as can be easily understood when referring to Figure 1, in which case,
the supporting member, shown in Figures 1-5, and/or the optional plate of the
QBC shown in Figure 10, preferably comprises corresponding slots, as
aforementioned, the intended use of which will be explained in greater detail
hereinbelow.
Indeed, referring to Figures 11-20, each securing member preferably
comprises a casing having opposite upper and lower ends, and a fastener
extending within the casing and being displaceable thereabout, that is, and
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
=
21
preferably, in a direction substantailly parallel to that of the longitudinal
axis of the
casing, as can be easiy understood from Figures 14, 19 and 20. The fastener is
preferably insertable through a corresponding slot of the at least one
supporting
member (and/or optional plate of the QBC, as can be easily understood from
Figure 11), and has a first extremity provided with a head as well as an
opposite
second extremity extendable beyond the lower end of the casing for receiving a
locking tee positionable via the fastener beyond the corresponding slot of the
at
least one supporting member (and/or optional plate of the QBC when referring
to
Figure 11), the locking tee being cooperable with said fastener and said
corresponding slot so that a rotation of the fastener via its head (provided
preferably with a socket for receiving a corresponding key) operatively urges
the
locking tee towards the head of the fastener, as can be easily understood from
Figures 14 and 19, and in abutment relationship with an underside portion of
the
corresponding slot, so as to operatively clamp the at least one supporting
member (and/or optional plate when using a QBC such as the one illustrated in
Figure 11) between the casing and the locking tee of the at least one securing
member.
Preferably, and as better shown when referring to Figures 19 and 20, the
fastener is a pressure bolt, and the casing is provided with a guiding sleeve
positioned within the casing for guiding said pressure bolt. Preferably also,
the
casing is provided with a spring positioned withing the casing and operatively
extending between the head of the pressure bolt and the guiding sleeve for
exerting a biasing force thereinbetween. Preferably also, and as illustrated,
the
spring has first and second extremities, the first extremity of the spring
being in
abutment with a washer mounted about the pressure bolt, adjacent to the head
thereof, and a second extremity in abutment with a recess defined within the
guiding sleeve.
As better shown in Figures 11-14, each securing member may be
integrated into a corresponding complementary member, which is preferably a
floor panel, as better exemplified in Figure 1.
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
= . 22
It is worth mentioning also that according to the preferred embodiment of
the present invention, each of the above-discussed slots is positioned
adjacent to
a corresponding bulge, so that a corresponding complementary member (e.g. a
floor panel) connected to a corresponding bulge of a supporting member, for
example, may be secured onto said supporting member by means of a securing
member cooperating with said slot adjacent to said corresponding bulge, as can
also be easily understood when referring to Figure 1. According to another
preferred embodiment of the present invention, the load-bearing support
structure
assembled with the present system is a mountable and demountable load-
bearing support structure.
Referring back again to Figures 11-20, there is shown a preferred
embodiment of the securing member (push, turn and lock (PTL) mechanism)
according to the present invention. As previously mentioned, the PTL mechanism
preferably comprises male and female components.
The male component of the PTL mechanism is preferably a barrel intended
to be embedded in a floor panel corner or in all types of structural
components
and accessories requiring anchorage. Inside the barrel of the PTL, there is
preferably a pressure bolt equipped with a washer that, when compressed,
activates the spring that ejects a locking tee, as can be easily understood
when
referring to Figures 16-20. The thus manipulated tee lodges itself in the
female
component, better illustrated in Figures 11-15.
The female component of the mechanism has preferably corresponding
slots and bulges, as aforementioned. These bulges permit an easier and more
precise positioning of the floor or the structural component and accessory
requiring anchorage onto the structure.
The anchoring operation is preferably performed by pushing down and
turning the pressure bolt (male component) to the right once the floor panel
is
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
= .
23
aligned. A preferred folded metal foled cut out on the female component abuts
with the locking tee. Concerning the rotation of the bolt, it allows a
suitable fit of
the structure and the panel as the bolt secures the panel in place by
compression, as can be also easily understood when referring to Figures 1 and
11-20, and when referring to the preceeding and following explanation of
preferred embodiments (components and features) of the securing member (PTL
mechanism).
Indeed, referring specifically to the pressure bolt of the male component of
the PTL: firstly, by pushing and turning this bolt, it induces the rotation of
the
locking cross tee. Once it has reached its final position, the rotation of the
bolt
secures the floor panel to the truss.
Referring now to the pressure washer of the male component of the PTL:
this washer limits the compression of the release spring and the stroke of the
bolt
head.
Referring now to the release spring of the male component of the PTL: this
spring allows the bolt head to reach its neutral position and also serves as
an
indicator of when the locking cross tee has parted the female component of the
PTL (anchoring point).
Referring now to the casing of the male component of the PTL: this part of
mechanism is intended namely to protect the interior components from dirt
which
could alter their operation. It can be inserted in any powering structure or
sub-
assembly, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
Referring now to the guiding sleeve of the male component of the PTL: this
component aligns the bolt and spring stroke and also acts as a shoulder for
the
pressure washer. In that case, it is preferably made of threaded steel but it
could
be made of plastic or any other suitable material with the appropriate
retaining
device, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art.
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
-, -
s . a 24
Referring now to the locking cross tee of the male component of the PTL:
this piece preferably acts as the link between the female part and the male
part of
the PTL mechanism. Preferably, its half-cylinder shape permits, when
dismantling
the floor structure, a fast return to its position as it preferably has no
sharp edges
interacting with the other components.
Referring now to the positioning of the folded cut outs of the male
component of the PTL: these cut outs preferably restrain the returning
position of
the locking cross tee so it is preferably always aligned with the opening in
the
female part of the PTL.
Referring now to Figures 11-15, there is shown different views of the
female component of the PTL system. As illustrated, the female component of
the
PTL system preferably comprises a laser cut steel plate, guiding bulges,
openings, and an abutment.
Referring to the laser cut steel plate of the female component of the PTL:
this plate preferably serves as a support for the guiding bulges and as
thrusts
necessary to the action of the PTL male component. The small slits in the
metal
plate as represented in the accompanying drawings ensure, in that design, a
suitable embedment of the plate to its support and, as in all the other
structure
presented, it allows for plug welds, as apparent to a person skilled in the
art. The
preferred letter "F" appearing on the plate is intended to only act as a
orientation
reference mark.
It is worth mentioning that several modifications could be made to the
above-described component, without departing from the scope of the present
invention. Indeed, the material used to fabricate the plate can be made of any
other suitable structural material that offers sturdiness and load-bearing
capabilities. Furthermore, the thickness of the plate can be adapted to the
load
requirements (i.e. "uplift"), as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
Moreover,
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
25
the under structure onto which the plate is anchored can also be made of wood,
concrete and/or other, as long as it allows the clearance for the movement of
the
mechanism, as can also be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
Furthermore, the PTL female connector can be placed on horizontal, vertical
and/or at-an-angle structures (the same applies for other components of the
present system, as aforementioned and as apparent to a person skilled in the
art). This type of anchoring could serve for paneling walls and ceilings. It
is to be
understood also that the number of anchoring points on the plate can vary from
one to any amount considered necessary depending on the particular
applications for which it is intended, as apparent to a person skilled in the
art.
Referring now to the guiding bulges of the female components of the PTL
system: these bulges preferably oblige the floor structure to be placed at the
right
position so that the male component of the PTL can be easily operated when
anchoring the floor panels (or any other paneling). The structure that
supports the
PTL male component, the corner of the floor panel, for example, is preferably
designed with a receptacle for the guiding pins. According to the present
invention, all these precautions ensure that no abuse can be put on the
mechanism.
Referring now to the slots of the female component of the PTL system:
these slots preferably allow part of the PTL male component (i.e. locking
cross
tee) to penetrate the PTL female connector in the anchoring of the floor panel
to
its support (such as, for example, a truss, a floor, a wall and/or any other
suitable
structural component).
Referring now to the thrust of the female component of the PTL system:
each slot in the PTL female connector has preferably two thrusts or folded cut
outs, as aforementioned, that limit the rotation of the locking cross tee
(male part
of the PTL) to about 90 degrees. It is worth mentioning however that according
to
the present invention, other ranges of motions can be included.
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
4 26
Furthermore, it is also worth mentioning that according to the present
invention, the geometry of the PTL female component could differ greatly
depending on the use of the PTL system. The emphasis should be put on the
interaction between the male and female parts of the PTL system as shown in
the
accompanying drawings. Indeed, the underside view, as better illustrated in
Figure 15, shows where the male and female components meet.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning also that, according to the present
invention, the PTL female connectors can be located at any suitable location
within the system depending on the dimensions of the floor panels installed on
top, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
Preferably also, the different components of the system, including the
OST, QBC and PTL thereof, are preferably made of a suitable metallic material,
such as steel for example, so as to sustain the entire weight of the structure
and
possible static and/or dynamic loads placed thereon. Preferably also, other
suitable material, such as polymeric materials and/or composite materials, and
the like, as apparent to a person skilled in the art, could be used so as to
properly
sustain the weight of the entire structure and the loads it may be subjected
to.
Indeed, it is worth mentioning though that the system and the different
components thereof, according to the present invention, may be made of other
suitable materials depending on the applications for which the resulting
structure
is intended for, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
As may now be appreciated, the present invention is a substantial
improvement over the prior art in that, by virtue of its design and
components, the
system enables to easily, quickly and securely mount different load-bearing
supporting structures, such as stages used in the entertainment world and/or
for
special events, and the like.
Indeed, the system according to the present invention and the various key
components thereof, such as the "push, turn and lock" (PTL) locking/securing
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
: .
- = 4, 27
mechanism, the open shell truss (OST), and the quad bowtie connector (QBC),
provide the present system with several advantages.
For example, the PTL locking mechanism, by virtue of its design and
components, as explained hereinabove, enable the following: a) improved or
"perfect" bonding of the floor panels and the structure that allows the equal
distribution of the loads via a diaphragm effect; b) once locked in place, the
floor
panel or other accessory are prevented from vibrating or moving; c) it allows
not
only for the anchoring but also the compression of the panel onto the
structure; d)
universal mechanism with mechanical properties that are adaptable to the
required use (load-bearing structure, decor, turntable, decorative facing,
etc.); e)
set up and dismantling done from the top of the element to be anchored; f)
invisible mechanism since it is fully integrated into the element to be
anchored; g)
preferred capacity of about 1500 lbs. per mechanism in upward motion; and h)
high capacity mechanism that has a reduced possibility of suffering damage
since
its components are fully integrated to the structures. Moreover, the PTL
locking
system is also advantageous in that it is preferably fabricated so that the
machining of the mechanism parts allows a very precise fit.
Furthermore, as may now be better appreciated, the open shell truss
according to the present invention is also advantageous in that, it is
preferably a
four-faced open truss design, and one or all of the faces can be designed with
the
PTL female component along its length to adapt to the required use, as
apparent
to a person skilled in the art. Furthermore, the truss has a double anchoring
plate
at its ends, which is also advantageous. Other advantages of this component
are
the following: a) the flat surfaces allow a stable and safe support to any
structure
or accessory; b) the positioning of the truss is universal in relation to the
desired
configuration; c) the dimensions of the truss can be adapted to any required
load-
bearing capacity or usage; d) this truss can be fabricated with any material
offering structural properties; e) it can be provided with any temporary or
permanent anchoring system for rigging or for adding scenic elements; f) it
can
be set up in the vertical, horizontal or at angled positions; g) the truss is
relatively
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
=
= = 28
light, ideally sized for transportation and resistant to handling and impact;
h) once
fully assembled, the load-bearing capacity is optimized to support both static
and
dynamic loads; i) the preferred square box truss design combined with its
connection to the upright supports at both ends allows for lateral stability
not
requiring bracing legs; j) because of its universality, this truss facilitates
the
addition of scenic elements at any point along its length since their
anchoring
points can be easily integrated to the truss; k) the removal of some floor
panels
permitting the integration of the scenic elements does not compromise the load-
bearing properties of the truss; I) there is no longer a need to overlap
multiple
floor panels; m) it allows unlimited performance base and layout of the stage;
n) it
allows for multiple levels of stages while maintaining the conviviality of the
structural component anchorage between them; o) there is minimal hardware
needed for assembly and the hardware can be modified relative to the
structural
loads required of the structure; p) optimization of the space beneath the
stage
which allows for storage, technical booths or passageways; q) the system
allows
a set up time of about three (3) times faster than any other type of temporary
structure for an equivalent load-bearing capacity; and r) it does not require
specialized manpower.
The open shell truss according to the present invention is also
advantageous from a fabrication and design point of view in that the assembly
of
laser-cut lightweight steel plates requires about half the time than other
types of
structures for an equal or greater load-bearing capacity; and the open design
allows the truss to be galvanized, zinc-plated, or painted without leaving any
residue, and the like.
The quad bowtie connector according to the present invention is also
advantageous in that it is a strirrup compatible with the OST offering up to a
preferred four anchoring points, and the QBC is preferably maintained in place
by
any standard support, such as screw jacks, legs, anchor plates, and the like,
as
apparent to a person skilled in the art. Moreover, the quad bowtie connector
offers the following advantages: it is used on any one or many connecting
CA 02536893 2006-02-17
. 4 29
positions, and offers the support and stability required to meet the load-
bearing
capacity; the QBC's position is universal in the required layout; and the QBC
may
include the female component of the PTL, if required.
Of course, numerous modifications could be made to the above-described
embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention, as
defined in the appended claims.
