Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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ACCESS STRUCTURE INTEGRATION ASSEMBLY AND
INTEGRATED ACCESS SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF USING THE SAME
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] None.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY
SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] None.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The invention relates, generally, to the field of construction and
temporary
structures that are erected to access various parts of various structures. In
one aspect, the
invention relates to the integration of supported work platform systems and
suspended work
platform systems and a structural assembly for accomplishing the same.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Work platforms and other access structures, including suspended work
platform
systems and scaffolding, allow workers to access difficult to reach worksites
and can be
assembled on the job site as needed. For example, when working on structures
such as
bridges where there is no stable or suitable bottom surface for building up
standard supported
work platforms, suspended work platforms allow workers to access the
undersides of these
structures. Suspended work platforms also eliminate the need to build standard
work
platforms and platform systems to significant and unwieldy heights. However,
suspended
work platforms are not always ideal for accessing some structures. Supported
work
platforms may be beneficial to provide improved access to some structures,
even after
suspended work platforms are in place. It may therefore be beneficial to
install supported
work platforms on top of suspended work platforms.
[0005] Suspended work platforms use plywood panels secured in a frame-like
structure
to create a platform which is suspended from an overhead structure. The legs
used with
traditional supported work platforms impart large concentrated loads. The
plywood panels
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used in suspended work platform systems are not able to withstand the
pressures exerted by
frame legs, and the loads must be properly distributed on structural members
using dunnage
and/or beams. Installing dunnage systems or beams requires significant
equipment, effort
and time. Further, dunnage systems only resist downward loads, and additional
guy wires or
bracing is necessary to resist sideways, upward or overturning forces. In
other words,
dunnage systems only prevent movement in a single direction, and a significant
amount of
extra equipment and material is needed to prevent standard work platform
systems from
moving or shifting when installed on a suspended work platform system. Dunnage
cannot
truly structurally integrate a standard supported work platform system with a
suspended work
platform system.
[0006] In summary, a need exists to overcome the above stated, and other,
deficiencies in
the art of work platform and work platform support systems. A need exists for
an improved
system to truly integrate suspended and supported work platforms and which
properly
distributes the forces exerted by supported work platform systems on
structural members of
suspended work platform systems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] To overcome the aforementioned, and other, deficiencies, the present
invention
provides a device for use with work platform system, a work platform support
system, a
work platform system, and a method of manufacturing and installing same.
[0008] In a first general aspect, the present invention provides an access
structure
integration assembly comprising at least one channeled structure, which may be
a C channel,
and at least one joist socket, wherein the joist socket is slidingly engaged
with the channeled
structure. In some embodiments, the channeled structure is a C channel
comprising a solid,
flattened bottom portion; two flattened side wall portions extending upward
from the bottom
portion at approximately right angles, each side wall portion terminating in a
flange
extending at a right angle from the side wall portions such that the flanges
extend toward
each other; and a linear gap extending the length of the C channel and having
a width. In
further embodiments, the joist socket is slidingly engaged with the channeled
structure using
at least one T-bolt which is slidingly engaged with the linear gap of the C
channel. The T-
bolt comprises a head having a width greater than that of the linear gap. In
further
embodiments, the joist socket comprises a hollow tubular body; and a base. In
one
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embodiment of an integration assembly, the C channel is configured to secure
to a base
structure and the joist socket is configured to secure to a second structure.
The base structure
may be a suspended work platform system which is articulatable, and the second
structure
may be a supported work platform system. An access structure integration
assembly
according to the embodiments described herein may include a deck retainer.
[0009] According to a second general aspect, the present invention provides
an access
structure integration assembly comprising: at least one substantially squared
channeled
structure, the channeled structure comprising a solid, flattened bottom
portion containing a
plurality of apertures corresponding to the apertures of the deck retainer,
two flattened side
wall portions extending upward from the bottom portion at approximately right
angles, each
side wall portion terminating in a flange extending at a right angle from the
side wall portions
such that the flanges extend toward each other, and a linear gap extending the
length of the
channeled structure and having a width; at least one joist socket comprising a
hollow tubular
body and a base having a plurality of apertures; a plurality of T-bolts
extending through the
apertures of the joist socket and into the linear gap of the channeled
structure and having a
head portion with a width greater than that of the linear gap, wherein the T-
bolts are slidingly
engaged with the channeled structure and each of the T-bolts is secured with a
nut; and
optionally, at least one substantially linear deck retainer comprising a
plurality of apertures
corresponding to the apertures of the channeled structure, wherein the deck
retainer is
parallel to the channeled structure and secured to the channeled structure by
a plurality of
bolts, each bolt extending through a set of corresponding apertures of the
channeled structure
and deck retainer.
NOM According to a third general aspect, the present invention provides a
base
structure comprising: at least one unit; at least two access structure
integration assemblies
secured to the at least one unit, each integration assembly comprising at
least one channeled
structure and at least one joist socket slidingly engaged with the channeled
structure, wherein
each channeled structure is secured to the unit.
[0011] In one embodiment, the channeled structure is a C channel which is a
substantially squared tubular structure comprising a solid, flattened bottom
portion; two
flattened side wall portions extending upward from the bottom portion at
approximately right
angles, each side wall portion terminating in a flange extending at a right
angle from the side
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wall portions such that the flanges extend toward each other; and a linear gap
extending the
length of the C channel and having a width. The joist sockets are slidingly
engaged with the
C channels using at least one T-bolt which is slidingly engaged with the
linear gap of the C
channel.
[0012] In some embodiments, the base structure further comprises a deck
retainer
secured between the unit and a C channel such that the deck retainer is
parallel with the C
channel. The joist sockets in any embodiment provided are configured to secure
to a second
structure, which may be a supported work platform system.
[0013] In one embodiment, at least one unit of the base structure comprises
four joists
interconnected with four hubs. In another embodiment, the unit comprises at
least two joists
and each integration assembly is secured to one of the joists. The joists may
contain a
plurality of cage nuts and the C channels may comprise a plurality of
apertures corresponding
to the cage nuts so that the integration assemblies may be secured to the
joists by a plurality
of bolts, each bolt extending through an aperture of the C channels and
engaging a
corresponding cage nut.
[0014] A base structure according to the embodiments described here may
include a
plurality of units, each unit defined by four joists interconnected with four
hubs, wherein the
joists and hubs are interconnected such that the joists are copolanar with
respect to one
another. Each joist may comprise an upper element and a bottom element. The
base
structure may also include a plurality of integration assemblies, each
integration assembly
secured to the upper element of a joist and parallel to the joist. Each joist
may further
include a plurality of cage nuts, and each channeled structure a plurality of
apertures
corresponding to the cage nuts, such that the integration assemblies are
secured to the joists
using bolts extending through the apertures of the channeled structure and
engaging the cage
nuts.
[0015] In a further embodiment, the base structure further comprises a
plurality of
suspension connectors secured to the hubs.
[0016] According to a fourth general aspect, the present invention provides
a suspended
work platform system comprising: a plurality of joists, each having an upper
element and a
bottom element; and a plurality of hubs, wherein the plurality of joists
comprises at least four
joists and wherein the plurality of hubs comprises at least four hubs; wherein
the joists and
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hubs are interconnected such that the joists are coplanar with respect to each
other; a plurality
of access structure integration assemblies, each integration assembly
comprising a
substantially linear deck retainer comprising a plurality of apertures, a
substantially squared
channeled structure parallel with the deck retainer comprising a solid,
flattened bottom
portion containing a plurality of apertures corresponding to the apertures of
the deck retainer,
two flattened side wall portions extending upward from the bottom portion at
approximately
right angles, each side wall portion terminating in a flange extending at a
right angle from the
side wall portions such that the flanges extend toward each other, and a
linear gap having
extending the length of the channeled structure and having a width; a
plurality of deck
retainer bolts extending through the corresponding apertures of the deck
retainer and
channeled structure; a plurality of joist sockets comprising a hollow tubular
body anda base
having a plurality of apertures; and a plurality of T-bolts extending through
the apertures of
the joist socket and into the linear gap of the channeled structure and having
a head portion
with a width greater than that of the linear gap, wherein the T-bolts are
slidingly engaged
with the channeled structure and each of the T-bolts is secured with a nut;
wherein each
channeled structure secures at least two joist sockets, wherein each
integration assembly is
secured to the upper element of one of the joists, and wherein the number of
joists is greater
than the number of integration assemblies.
[0017] In one embodiment of the third aspect, the joists comprise a
plurality of cage nuts
which engage the deck retainer bolts to secure deck retainer and channeled
structure to joists.
[0018] The suspended work platform system may also include at least two
suspension
connectors, each secured to one of the hubs. At least one of the hubs may
comprise a first
surface with a set of openings; a second surface substantially parallel to the
first surface, the
second surface having a second set of openings; and a structural element
connected between
the first surface and second surface, wherein at least one of the first set
and the second set of
openings is co-axial with respect to one of the openings in the second set of
openings.
[0019] In a further embodiment, the joist sockets of the suspended work
platform system
are configured to secure a second structure. The second structure may be a
supported work
platform system, and the suspended work platform system may be articulatable.
[0020] According to a fifth general aspect, the present invention provides
an integrated
system comprising a base structure; a second structure; and at least two
access structure
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integration assemblies, each assembly comprising a channeled structure, which
may be a C
channel, and at least one joist socket slidingly engaged with the channeled
structure; wherein
the base structure is secured to the channeled structure, and wherein the
second structure is
secured to the joist socket. The integrated systems may also include a deck
retainer. The
base structure may be a work platform system, such as a suspended work
platform system or
an articulatable suspended work platform system. The base structure may
comprise one or
more units, with at least one unit comprising at least four joists, each
having an upper
element and a bottom element, wherein at least two of the joists include at
least four cage
nuts; and at least four hubs, wherein the joists and hubs are interconnected
such that the joists
are coplanar with respect to each other.
[0021] In one embodiment, each access structure integration assembly is
secured to a
joist such that the integration assembly is parallel with the joist. Each
joist may further
include at least two cage nuts, and each integration assembly may be secured
to a joist using
at least two bolts which each bolt engaging one cage nut.
[0022] In one embodiment of an integrated system, each channeled structure
comprises a
solid, flattened bottom portion, two flattened side wall portions extending
upward from the
bottom portion at approximately right angles, each side wall portion
terminating in a flange
extending at a right angle from the side wall portions such that the flanges
extend toward
each other, and a linear gap extending the length of the channeled structure
and having a
width. Each joist socket may therefore be slidingly engaged with the channeled
structure by
a T-bolt slidingly engaged with the linear gap of the channeled structure. In
some
embodiments, each joist socket comprises a hollow tubular body and a base. The
integration
assembly may comprise two joist sockets.
[0023] In an embodiment, the second structure is at least one unit of a
work platform
system, and the second structure may further be a supported work platform
system or
shoring. A supported work platform according to an embodiment may have at
least two
levels. The second structure may also include a barrier secured to it.
[0024] In a further embodiment, an integrated system further comprises a
third structure,
the third structure comprising at least four hubs; and at least four joists,
each of the four joists
configured to be interconnected with at least two of the four hubs; wherein
the joists and
hubs are configured to be interconnected so that (i) one of the joists ¨ and
two of the hubs ¨
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configured to remain stationary; (ii) two of the joists are rotatable; and
(iii) two of the hubs ¨
and one of the joists ¨ are translatable; wherein the two stationary hubs are
each connected to
the second structure; wherein, when interconnected, the two rotatable joists,
the two
translatable hubs, and the one translatable joist can articulate from an
initial position to a
final position with respect to the stationary joist and the stationary hubs;
wherein the at least
four joists are substantially coplanar with respect to each other in the
initial and final
positions; wherein at least one of the joists is configured to be connected
with at least one of
the hubs using a pin to provide free rotation of the at last one joist with
respect to the at last
one hub about the pin; and wherein the free rotation is restricted by at least
one of (i) an
additional pin that is to be located proximate a perimeter of the at least one
hub; and (ii) at
least a portion of a platform when the platform is positioned with respect to
the hubs and
joists in the final position.
100251 According to a sixth general aspect, the invention provides an
integrated work
platform system for suspending from an overhead structure, the system
comprising: a first
structure comprising at least two suspension connectors with a first end and a
second end,
wherein the second end is configured to secure to an overhead structure, a
plurality of joists,
each having an upper element and a bottom element, and a plurality of hubs, at
least two of
the hubs having a first surface with an opening configured to engage the first
end of the
suspension connectors, wherein the plurality of joists comprises at least four
joists and
wherein the plurality of hubs comprises at least four hubs and wherein the
joists and hubs are
interconnected such that the joists are coplanar with respect to each other; a
plurality of
integration assemblies, each secured to a joist and each integration assembly
comprising a
substantially linear deck retainer comprising a plurality of apertures, a
substantially squared
tubular C channel parallel with the deck retainer, each C-channel comprising
(a) a solid,
flattened bottom portion containing a plurality of apertures corresponding to
the apertures of
the deck retainer, (b) two flattened side wall portions extending upward from
the bottom
portion at approximately right angles, each side wall portion terminating in a
flange
extending at a right angle from the side wall portions such that the flanges
extend toward
each other, and (c) a linear gap extending the length of the C channel and
having a width, a
plurality of deck retainer bolts extending through the corresponding apertures
of the deck
retainer and C channel, a plurality of joist sockets comprising a hollow
tubular body and a
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base having a plurality of apertures, and a plurality of T-bolts extending
through the
apertures of the joist socket and into the linear gap of the C channel and
having a head
portion with a width greater than that of the linear gap, wherein the T-bolts
are slidingly
engaged with the C channels and each of the T-bolts is secured with a nut;
wherein each C
channel secures at least two joist sockets; and a second structure having
framework secured
to the joist sockets.
[0026] The second structure may include a plurality of coplanar platforms,
at least one
additional platform parallel to, but not copolanar with, the platforms, and/or
at least three
parallel, non-coplanar platforms.
[0027] According to a seventh aspect, the present invention provides a
method of
integrated a second structure with respect to a base structure, the method
comprising:
providing a base structure; providing a second structure; providing at least
two integration
assemblies, each integration assembly comprising a channeled structure and a
joist socket
slidingly engaged with the channeled structure; securing the channeled
structures of the
integration assemblies to the base structure; and securing the joist sockets
of the integration
assemblies to the second structure.
[0028] The base structure may be a suspended work platform system or an
articulatable
suspended work platform system. The second structure may be a work platform
system.
[0029] According to an eight aspect, the prevent invention provides a
method of
installing a supported work platform system with respect to a suspended work
platform
system, the method comprising: providing a suspended work platform system that
is
suspended from a structure, the suspended work platform system comprising a
plurality of
interconnected hubs and joists such the joists are coplanar with respect to
each other; aligning
a plurality of deck retainers parallel to a plurality of joists such that the
number of deck
retainers is less than the number of joists and the deck retainers are each
parallel with respect
to each other; aligning a plurality of channeled structures collinear with the
deck retainers,
wherein the channeled structures comprise a solid, flattened bottom portion
containing a
plurality of apertures corresponding to the apertures of the deck retainer,
two flattened side
wall portions extending upward from the bottom portion at approximately right
angles, each
side wall portion terminating in a flange extending at a right angle from the
side wall portions
such that the flanges extend toward each other, and a linear gap extending the
length of the
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channeled structure, wherein each flange has an inner surface and an outer
surface; securing
the deck retainers and channeled structures to the joists using a plurality of
bolts; providing a
plurality of joist sockets, the joist sockets comprising a tubular body, a
base with at least two
apertures, one T-bolt projecting through each of the apertures such that the T-
bolt is oppose
that tubular body, and a nut partially engaged with each T-bolt; sliding each
joist socket
along the outer surface of one of the flanges such that the T-bolts pass
through the linear gap;
tightening the nuts so that the head of the T-bolts engage the inner surfaces
of the flanges;
and securing a first end of a supported work platform system frame member in
each of the
plurality of joist sockets.
[0030] In one embodiment, the method further comprises providing a work
platform
assembly on a second end of the supported work platform system frame members.
[0031] The method may also further include providing an articulatable work
platform
assembly comprising a plurality of hubs and a plurality of joists connected to
the plurality of
hubs; and articulating the articulatable work platform assembly from an
initial position to a
final position, the articulating including at least one of rotating and
translating one or more of
the plurality of joists with respect to one or more of the plurality of hubs;
wherein the
plurality of joists are substantially coplanar with respect to each other in
the initial and final
positions.
[0032] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the invention
will be apparent
from the following more particular description of embodiments of the
invention. It is to be
understood that both the foregoing general description and the following
detailed description
are exemplary, but are not restrictive, of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0033] The features of the present invention will best be understood from a
detailed
description of the invention and an embodiment thereof selected for the
purposes of
illustration and shown in the accompanying drawings in which:
[0034] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of an exemplary unit for a base
structure;
[0035] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of an exemplary base structure;
[0036] FIG. 3 is an exemplary hub for use with the base structure of FIG.
2;
[0037] FIG. 4 is a side view of base structure suspended from an overhead
structure;
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[0038] FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the hub of FIG. 3 connected with
a joist;
[0039] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a base structure and a unit
frame prior to
articulation;
[0040] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 6
undergoing
articulation;
[0041] FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the embodiment in FIG. 7
undergoing further
articulation;
[0042] FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 8
undergoing further
articulation;
[0043] FIG. 10 is a top perspective view of the embodiment in FIG. 6 having
completed
articulation;
[0044] FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of an exemplary base unit with
multiple
integration assemblies;
[0045] FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of a joist containing an access
structure
integration assembly;
[0046] FIG. 13 is a detailed view of a joist socket;
[0047] FIGS. 14a and 14b are exploded views an exemplary integration
assembly;
[0048] FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a joist socket;
[0049] FIG. 16 is an end elevation view of an integration assembly;
[0050] FIG. 17 is an exploded view of FIG. 16;
[0051] FIG. 18 is an end elevation view of an integration assembly secured
to a joist;
[0052] FIG. 19 is an exploded view of FIG. 18;
[0053] FIG. 20 is an exemplary base structure with an integrated second
structure using a
plurality of integration assemblies; and
[0054] FIGS. 21-24 illustrate exemplary integrated systems.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0055] Although certain preferred embodiments of the present invention will
be shown
and described in detail, it should be understood that various changes and
modifications may
be made without departing from the scope of the appended claims. The scope of
the present
invention will in no way be limited to the number of constituting components,
the materials
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thereof, the shapes thereof, the relative arrangement thereof, etc., and are
disclosed simply as
an example of an embodiment. The features and advantages of the present
invention are
illustrated in detail in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference
numerals refer to
like elements throughout the drawings.
[0056] As a preface to the detailed description, it should be noted that,
as used in this
specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the"
include plural
referents, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Further, as used
herein, the term
"overhead structure" refers to any physical structure from which a work
platform may be
suspended. Similarly, the term "structure" refers to any physical structure
which is
accessible using a suspended work platform system, with or without an
integrated supported
work platform system. In some embodiments, a structure and an overhead
structure may be
the same. Exemplary structures and overhead structures include, but are not
limited to,
bridges, offshore rigs, boilers, boiler pendants, elevated and suspended
structures, and ships.
[0057] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary unit
120 of a base
structure 100. In the exemplary embodiment shown, unit 120, which is a unit of
a first work
platform system, includes four joists 140 joined by four hubs 150 such that
joists 140 are
coplanar and secured with hubs 150 at approximately right angles. Hubs 150 and
joists 140,
together with optional middle support deck joist 52, provide a framework to
support a
platform 170. In the exemplary embodiment shown, platform 170 is divided into
two
platforms 170A and 170B, with middle support deck joist 52 providing
structural support
between platforms 170A, 170B. In further exemplary embodiments, a single
platform 170
may be used, or platform 170 may be subdivided into two, three or more
platforms.
[0058] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary base structure 100 comprising a
plurality of units
120 joined together at hubs 150. In the exemplary embodiment shown, base
structure 100 is
a work platform system comprising a plurality of work platform units. In
further exemplary
embodiments, base structure 100 may be a single unit 120. In still further
exemplary
embodiments, base structure 100 may be any structure or system which provides
a
substantially planar surface having at least two coplanar joists 140 or a
single joist 140
configured to have two coplanar portions, the portions not linear with respect
to each other
and separated by a distance.
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[0059] A joist 140 is any elongate structural member adapted for bearing or
supporting a
load, such as a bar joist, truss, shaped-steel (i.e., I-beam, C-beam, etc.),
or the like. A hub
150 is an interconnection structure, such as a node, hinge, pivot, post,
column, center, shaft,
spindle, or the like. One skilled in the art will therefore appreciate that
size, shape and
arrangement of hubs 150 and joists 140 may vary to provide a work platform
unit 120 and
system 100.
[0060] For example, the length of joists 140 and positioning of joists 140
and hubs 150
can vary depending on the desired size and configuration of base structure
100. While the
exemplary embodiments shown, units 120 are rectangular, forming an overall
rectangular
base structure 100 with joists 140 in one direction being longer than the
joists 140 extending
in the opposite direction, joists 140 may be any length and joined with hubs
150 at any angle
permitted by the design of hubs 150. The size and shape of support platforms
170A, 170B
may similarly vary depending on the configuration of joists 140 and hubs 150.
[0061] In the exemplary embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, base structure
100 is
shown as an access structure, such as a work platform system. Specifically,
base structure
100 is shown as a work platform system designed to be suspended from an
overhead
structure (i.e., a suspended work platform system). However, the base
structure 100 may be
any base structure, as discussed above, including any type of access structure
(i.e., suspended
work platform system, supported work platform system, scaffolding, shoring).
In preferred
exemplary embodiments, base structure 100 is any structure having at least one
unit 120
having two coplanar, parallel joists 140. More preferably, base structure 100
is a work
platform system, and even more preferably a suspended work platform system. In
a most
preferred embodiment, base structure 100 is an articulatable suspended work
platform system
as described herein.
[0062] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary hub 150 for use with a base
structure 100, which
in the exemplary embodiment described is an articulatable suspended work
platform system.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, hub 150 is configured so that, when
attached to a joist
140, it allows for articulation of both the hub 150 and the joist 140.
Articulation, as used
herein, is defined as the capability to swing, and/or rotate, about a pivot
point or axis. Hub
150 also permits unit 120, and subsequently a base structure 100, to be
suspended from an
overhead structure. However, in further exemplary embodiments, hub 150 may
provide for
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articulation of only hub 150 or joist 140, or allow no articulation. In still
further exemplary
embodiments, hub 150 may not permit suspension of the unit 120 or base
structure 100.
[0063] In the exemplary embodiment depicted in FIG. 3, showing a hub 150
which
permits articulation of both the hub 150 and the joist 140 as well as
suspension of a unit 120
and base structure 100, the hub 150 includes a top element 11 and a bottom
element 12
spaced at distal ends of a middle section 15. The top element 11 and bottom
element 12 may
be substantially planar in configuration as well as being parallel to each
other. The top
element 11 and bottom element 12, in the embodiment shown, are octagonal. The
middle
section 15 may be a cylindrical section wherein a longitudinal axis of the
middle section 15 is
normal to the planes of the top element 11 and bottom element 12. In the
embodiment
shown, the middle section 15 is a right circular cylinder. In the exemplary
embodiment
shown, a lower portion of the middle section 15 is removed for clarity
purposes to show that
the middle section 15 is hollow.
[0064] There are a plurality of openings 13, 14, extending through both the
top element
11 and bottom element 12, respectively. The plurality of openings 13 (e.g.,
13A, 13B, 13C,
13D, 13E, 13F, 13G, 13H) are interspersed on the top element 11 so as to offer
various
locations for connecting to one, or more, joists 140. The plurality of
openings 14 (e.g., 14A,
14B, 14C, 14D, 14E, 14F, 14G, 14H) are similarly spaced on the bottom element
12 so that
respective openings (e.g., 13A and 14A) are coaxial.
[0065] At the center of the top element 11 is a center opening 16 which is
configured to
receive a suspension connector for securing a unit 120 and base structure 100
to an overhead
structure. The center opening 16 may be generally cruciform in configuration
due to its
center opening area 19 with four slots 17 (e.g., 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D) extending
therefrom.
Transverse to each of the four slots 17A, 17B, 17C, 17D, and interconnected
thereto, are a
series of cross slots 18A, 18B, 18C, 18D. Slots 17, 18 and center opening area
19 interact
with and secure one end of a suspension connector 80 to hub 150, as shown in
FIG. 4. The
other end of suspension connector 80 secures to an overhead structure 90 to
suspend a base
structure 100. One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that slots 17,
18 and center
opening area 19 may have other configurations and designs so long as a
suspension
connector 80 can engage hub 150.
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[0066] For added strength a second reinforcing plate 20 may be added to the
underside of
the top element 11 wherein openings on the reinforcing plate 20 correspond to
the center
opening 16 configuration and all the ancillary openings thereto (17, 18, 19).
A handle 22 is
optionally added to the side of the middle section 15.
[0067] FIG. 5 depicts a top perspective view of the interconnection between
a single hub
150 and a single joist 140. The exemplary joist 140 illustrated in FIG. 5
includes an upper
element 32 and a bottom element 33. Interspersed between elements 32, 33 are a
plurality of
diagonal support members 38. Each element 32, 33 is made of two L-shaped
pieces of angle
iron 39A, 39B called joist chords. Elements 32, 33 typically may be identical
in
construction, with the exception being upper element 32 includes connector
holes 54A, 54B
at its midspan. The joist 140 includes a first end 31A and a second end 31B.
At either end
31A, 31B of both the upper element 32 and bottom element 33 extends an upper
connecting
flange 35 and a lower connecting flange 36. Through both upper and lower
connection
flanges 35, 36 are connecting holes 37. Thus, there are four upper connecting
flanges 35A,
35B, 35C, 35D and four lower connecting flanges 36A, 36B, 36C, 36D. Thus, at a
first end
31A, extending from the upper element 32, is an upper connection flange 35A
and lower
connection flange 36A, with a connecting hole 37A therethrough. Similarly, at
the second
end 31A of the upper element 32, extends an upper connection flange 35B and
lower
connection flange 36B, with a connecting hole 37B therethrough. Continuing, at
the first end
31A of the lower element 33 extends an upper connection flange 35D and lower
connection
flange 36D. Through these connection flanges 35D, 36D are a connecting hole
37D. At the
second end 31B of the joist 30 extending from the lower element 33 is an upper
connection
flange 35C and lower connection flange 36C with a connecting hole 37C
therethrough.
[0068] Interior to each of the connector holes 37A, 37B, 37C, 37D are
additional locking
holes 360A, 360B, 360C, 360D also located on the connection flanges 35A, 35B,
35C, 35D.
A pin may be placed through the connecting holes 37 and any two corresponding
top and
bottom openings 13, 14 of hub 150. For example, a pin may be placed in through
an upper
connection flange 35A; through an opening 13A; through a lower connection
flange 36A (all
of the first end 31A of the upper element 32); through an upper connection
flange 35D;
through an opening 14A; and, then through the lower connection flange 36D. In
this
scenario, the pin further threads through connecting holes 37A, 37D. The pin
may include
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two roll pins at its upper end, the lower of the two roll pins acting as a
stop, thereby
preventing the pin from slipping all the way through joist 140 and hub 150.
The upper roll
pin may act as a finger hold to allow easy maneuvering of the pin.
[0069] The design of these parts is such that free rotation of both the
joist 140 and hub
150 is allowed, even while joist 140 and hub 150 are connected together.
Rotational arrow
R1 shows that rotation of the joist 140 while R2 shows rotation of the hub
150. These
rotational capabilities provide, in part, the articulating capability of the
joists 140 and hubs
150.
[0070] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, joists 140 can
be of any length
and positioned at any angle which may be accommodated by hub 150. When
multiple hubs
150 and joists 140 are joined, such as in the case of a single unit 120 or a
base structure 100,
joists 140 may be pivotal on hubs 150 to create any configuration of units 120
and therefore
base structure 100. Because of this articulation, the framework of units 120
may also be
assembled in a collapsed form while a base structure 100 is in place and then
expanded
outward from the base structure 100. Once in a desired configuration, the unit
120 is secured
to prevent further articulation.
[0071] This "in-the-air" assembly of further units 120 is illustrated in
FIGS. 6-10. FIG. 6
shows an exemplary framework for a unit 120A assembled and joined to an
existing base
structure 100 at unit 120B. The new unit 120A is in its initial position,
prior to articulation.
As FIGS. 7-9 clearly show through the motion arrows "M," by a combination or
rotation of
joists 140D, 140E and 140F, and hubs 150D and 150E, the framework for unit
120A is able
to move and rotate into its final requisite position (FIG. 10). That is, the
unit 120A
articulates into place.
[0072] Once in position, unit 120A may be locked into its final position
using locking
pins as described above. In further exemplary embodiments, further
articulation of unit
120A may be prevented by securing a platform 170 (not shown) in the framework.
[0073] In alternative embodiments, joist 140 and hub 150 may be secured to
each other
using other structures and methods known in the art and may not allow
articulation of the
joist 140 and hub 150 relative to each other. For example, in some
embodiments, joist 140
and hub 150 may be securely joined and locked into place such that
articulation is prevented.
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[0074]
FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of an exemplary base structure 100 as shown
in
FIG. 2 with access structure integration assemblies 300 secured to some joists
140. As
discussed in more detail below, access structure integration assemblies 300
include at least
one joist socket 60 and channeled structure 50, which in the exemplary
embodiment shown
are secured to joists 140 running perpendicular to middle support deck joists
52. Access
structure integration assemblies 300 are used to integrate a second structure
200, or unit 220
or framework 210 of a second structure, to a base structure 100 or unit 120 of
a base
structure.
[0075] In
one embodiment, the second structure 200 may be any structure capable of
being integrated using access structure integration assemblies 300, such as,
for example, any
access structure. Access structures include, for example, suspended work
platform system,
supported work platform system, scaffolding, and shoring.
[0076] As
illustrated, joist sockets 60 are arranged on channeled structures 50 which
run
parallel with and are secured to joists 140. The size of base structure 100,
and specifically
the arrangement of joists 140, therefore necessarily limits the configuration
of joist sockets
60 and, ultimately, a second structure 200 which is integrated with base
structure 100. In the
exemplary embodiment shown, channeled structures 50 are secured to joists
which are
perpendicular to middle support deck joists 52.
However, in further exemplary
embodiments, channeled structures 50 may be secured to joists parallel to
middle support
deck joists 52 or both.
[0077] To
save materials and assembly time and cost, channeled structures 50 are
typically secured to joists 140 running in a single direction, such as those
running
perpendicular to middle support deck joists 52 as shown in FIG. 11. The
distance between
two joist sockets 60 on a given linear path of joists 140 (such as joist
sockets 60A, 60C and
60D) is therefore variable, while the distance between joist sockets 60 on
parallel joists (such
as joist sockets 60A and 60B) remains the same. Typically, the length of
joists 140
extending perpendicular to channeled structures 50 is equal to (or a factor or
multiple of) the
desired length of one dimension of a second structure 200.
[0078] In
some exemplary embodiments, second structure 200 is a work platform system,
and the length of joists 140 extending perpendicular to channeled structures
50 is equal to (or
a factor or multiple of) the bay size of the work platform system or the
length of a frame
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member for the work platfoint system. In a preferred exemplary embodiment, the
second
structure 200 is a supported work platform system. The bay size of most
supported work
platform systems, and therefore the length of most frame members for supported
work
platform systems, can be 3 feet, 42 inches, 4 feet, 5 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet or
10 feet. The joists
140 of a base structure 100 which will be integrated with a second structure
200 which is a
supported work platform system may therefore be preferably 3 feet, 42 inches,
4 feet, 5 feet,
7 feet, 8 feet or 10 feet in length.
[0079] FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary joist 140 with an access structure
integration
assembly 300 comprising a single channeled structure 50 and two joist sockets
60. FIG. 13
shows the junction between a channeled structure 50 and joist socket 60 in
more detail. As
more fully described below, joist sockets 60 may be positioned and secured
anywhere along
channeled structures 50.
[0080] In the exemplary embodiments shown, channeled structure 50 is a
substantially
squared tubular structure having a solid, flattened bottom portion 51 with
solid, flattened side
walls 54 extended upward from bottom portion 51 at approximately right angles.
Each side
wall 54 terminates in a flange 53 which is at an approximate right angle
inward from side
walls 54 such that the flanges 53 extend towards each other but are not in
physical contact
with each other to form a linear gap the length of channeled structures,
thereby creating a
"C" shape. The inner and outer surfaces of flanges 53 are substantially
planar. In some
embodiments, the channeled structure 50 is referred to as a C channel 50.
[0081] In the exemplary embodiments shown, C channel 50 is secured to joist
140 with
deck retainer 58 between the joist 140 and C channel 50. Deck retainer 58 is a
substantially
linear, solid structure which transfers and distributes force from a second
structure 200
integrated with the base structure 100 using integration assemblies 300 along
joist 140, and
specifically to joist chords 144. When joist socket 60 is used on an end
joist, a toe board may
be used instead of deck retainer 58.
[0082] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 12, two deck retainers 58
are
required to span the length of joist 140 while a single C channel 50 is used.
In further
embodiments, deck retainers 58 and C channels 50 may be of any length as long
as the
apertures of each align with the cage nuts 142 of the joists 140 so that the
integration
assemblies 300 may be secured to joists 140.
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[0083] Joist socket 60 includes tubular body 65 structurally integrated as
a single unit
with base 62 and supporting braces 67. Tubular body 65 is configured to
receive a
framework 210 from a second structure 200 to integrate the second structure
200 with the
base structure 100. In the exemplary embodiments described, the framework 210
is
cylindrical to correspond to tubular body 65 of joist socket 60. However, it
should be
understood that the shape and size of tubular body 65 may vary to accommodate
any shape of
framework 210 for a second structure 200 or unit 220 of a second structure.
[0084] T-bolts 70 with nuts 78 secure joist socket 60 in C channel 50 while
still
permitting joist socket 60 to slidingly engage C channel 50. As used herein,
slidingly
engaged means that two components (i.e., a joist socket and C channel) are
secured to each
other in a manner permitting sliding movement relative to one another. As will
be shown in
FIGS. 16 and 17, T-bolts 70 have a T-like shape such that the bolt head 72 is
shaped to slide
within C channel 50 and engage with the inner surface of flanges 53. When
joist socket 60 is
at a desired location on C channel 50, nuts 78 are tightened on T-bolts 70 to
lock joist socket
60 in place. When nuts 78 are loosened, T-bolts are able to freely slide
within the linear gap
of C channels 50, and joist sockets 60 are therefore slidingly engaged with C
channels 50.
[0085] As will be shown, apertures 69 on joist socket 60 align with
apertures in a
supported work platform system component, such as a leg, to secure a supported
work
platform system to suspended work platform system 100.
[0086] In the exemplary embodiment shown, joist socket base 62 has a width
just greater
than that of C channel 50 and a length sufficient to support a single tubular
body 65.
However, it may be understood that joist socket base 62 may be of any length
to include one
or more tubular bodies 65, and the diameter of tubular body 65 is dependent on
the
dimension of the leg or other component of a supported work platform system
which will be
engaging joist socket 60. Further, the width of joist socket base 62 may
permissibly vary
depending on the diameter of tubular body 65 keeping in mind that T-bolt 70
must still fully
engage base 62.
[0087] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, when integrating a
second
structure 200 with base structure 100, framework 210, such as the legs of a
second structure,
will need to distributed weight to the joists 140. The strongest portions of
joists 140 are
panel points 144 (shown more clearly in FIGS. 14A and 14B) where diagonal
support
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members 38 intersect. Traditionally, dunnage, such as I-beams or other
supportive materials,
is placed over joists 140 to transfer the load of a second structure to the
panel points 144.
However, as discussed above, such dunnage systems prevent downward movement
and
provide little resistance to horizontal, vertical and rotational movement.
Additional securing
devices (i.e., tie-downs, bracing, guy lines, etc.) are therefore used to more
securely support a
second structure on a base structure.
[0088] By securing deck retainer 58 and channeled structure 50 directly on
top of and
parallel with joists 140, the load of a supported work platfotiii system is
concentrated at joist
sockets 60 and transferred by the channeled structures 50 to panel points 144.
Further,
because joist sockets 60 completely enclose the ends of frame members for a
supported work
platform system, movement in all directions (including rotational movement) is
prevented.
[0089] In the exemplary embodiments shown, access structure integration
assembly 300
secures a second structure 200 to prevent or limit movement in more than just
the downward
direction. For example, in the exemplary embodiment described, joist socket 60
will prevent
movement of framework 210 secured in it all directions along the x axis, y
axis and z axis,
including rotationally in each axis for a total of six potential types of
movement, relative to
joist 140 when joist socket 60 is secured in channeled structure 50. However,
in further
exemplary embodiments, integration assembly 300 may limit or prevent movement
in at least
one, preferably at least two, and more preferably at least three of the above
directions. In the
most preferred embodiment, however, all six types of movement of a frame
member 210
(and therefore second structure 200) relative to joist 140 (and therefore base
structure 100) is
limited or prevented by integration assembly 300.
[0090] FIGS. 14A and 14B show an exploded view of the joist 140 with access
structure
integration assembly 300. In the exemplary embodiment shown, integration
assembly 300
comprises joint socket 60 and channeled structure 50, which in the exemplary
embodiment
shown is a C channel. Although the bracket denoting integration assembly 300
as illustrated
in FIGS. 14A and 14B encompass nuts 78, T-bolts 70 and deck retainer bolts 57,
it is
understood that these components do not form essential components of an
integration
assembly 300 as described herein. Other securing components and mechanisms may
be used
to secure a C channel 50 (and deck retainer 58, when used) to a joist 140, and
joist sockets 60
may slidingly engage C channels 50 using structures and components other than
T-bolts 70.
19
[0091] Apertures (not shown) in bottom portion 51 of C channel 50 align
with
apertures 59 of deck retainer 58 (or toe board). Deck retainer bolts 57 secure
C channel 50 to
deck retainer 58 and joist 140 by engaging cage nuts 142 installed in joist
140.
[0092] T-bolts 70 may be inserted through apertures 64 in base 62 of joist
socket 60 to
partially engage nuts 78. Joist socket 60, with T-bolts 70 loosely and
slidingly engaged in
apertures 64, may be slide over the end of C channel 50 such that the head 72
of T-bolts 70 is
within C channel 50. The head 72 of the T-bolts 70 is wider than the opening
in the C
channel 50 so that the T-bolt head 72 engages the inner surfaces of flanges
53. Upward
movement of the joist socket 60 relative to the C channel 50 is thereby
prevented. Once the
joist socket 60 is in a desired position along C channel 50, nuts 78 are
tightened on T-bolts
70 to secure joist sockets 60 in place using compression force.
[0093] FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a joist socket 60 showing tubular
body 65 with
apertures 69 for engaging structural elements of a supported work platform
system. Base 62
includes apertures 64 for receiving T-bolts 70 and supporting braces 67 for
structural
integrity. In some exemplary embodiments, base 62 may include additional
apertures 64 for
T-bolts 70, and braces 67 may be of different sizes or configurations.
[0094] FIG. 16 is an end elevation view of an assembled integration
assembly 300.
Tubular body 65 is hollow, with apertures 69 open to hollow tubular body 65. T-
bolt 70 is
extended through base 62 and opening of channeled structure 50, which in the
exemplary
embodiment shown is a C channel. Bolt head 72 is wider than the opening of C
channel 50
and therefore engages flanges 53 when tightened in place by nut 78. FIG. 17 is
an exploded
view of the integration assembly 300 of FIG. 16.
[0095] FIG. 18 is side view of an integration assembly 300 secured to a
joist 140. Deck
retainer bolt 57 extends through channeled structure 50, which in the
exemplary embodiment
shown is a C channel, and deck retainer 58 and into cage nut 142 in joist 140
to secure C
channel 50 to joist 140. FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the integration
assembly 300 with
deck retainer 58 FIG. 18. FIG. 19 illustrates aperture 59 of deck retainer 58
as having a
protuberance around the underside of the aperture 59. As shown more clearly in
FIG. 18, the
protuberance around aperture 59 fits between the two L-shaped pieces of angle
iron 39A,
39B of elements 32, 33 to provide additional stability.
Date Recue/Date Received 2022-10-06
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[0096] FIG. 20 illustrates an exemplary second structure 200 integrated
with the base
structure 100 shown in FIG. 11 using access structure integration assemblies
300. In the
exemplary embodiment shown, framework 210 of second structure 200 comprises
interconnected legs which are secured in joist sockets 60. Preferably, and as
illustrated in
FIG. 20, second structure 200 is a work platform system, such as a supported
work platform
system, comprising a plurality of individual units 220.
[0097] In the exemplary embodiment shown, base structure 100 comprises a
plurality of
units 120, and the framework 210 of the second structure includes a plurality
of
interconnected legs and is configured to define a plurality of individual
units 220. In further
exemplary embodiments, base structure 100 may be only a single unit 120 or two
or more
units 120. In further exemplary embodiments, second structure 200 may be
configured to be
a single unit 220 or have framework 210 defining a single unit 220. In further
exemplary
embodiments, framework 210 of second structure 200 may secure platforms.
[0098] With legs of framework 210 secured in joist sockets 60, movement of
the second
structure 200 is prevented along the x, y and z axes, as well as rotationally
about each axis,
relative to joist sockets 60. When joist sockets 60 secured on C channels 50
(i.e., tightened
on C channels as to be immovable), movement is prevented along the x, y and z
axes, as well
as rotationally about each axis, relative to base structure 100. Access
structure integration
assemblies 300 therefore effectively integrate base structure 100 and second
structure 200.
The term "integrated" as used herein and in reference to a suspended work
platform or
platform system supporting a supported work platform or platform system means
that all six
forms of movement (i.e., linear movement along the x, y and z axes and
rotational movement
about the x, y and z axes) of the supported work platform or platform system
is prevented.
[0099] However, because joist sockets 60 are movable along C channels 50
when not
secured in place, second structure 200 may be built at a convenient location
on base structure
100 and slid into a final position after assembly. Similarly, a second
structure 200 may be
built and slid into different positions on base structure 100 to access
various structures at
different spots along base structure 100 as needed.
[00100] Because access structure integration assemblies 300 transfer the
pressures exerted
by the framework 210 of second structure 200 to panel points 144, the size of
second
structure 200 is limited by the amount of weight joists 140 of suspended work
platform
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system 100 can bear. For example, when base structure 100 is a suspended work
platform
system and second structure 200 is a supported work platform system, the
supported work
platform system may include a single level or multiple levels, provided joists
140 continue to
support the weight and pressures exerted by the supported work platform
system.
[00101] FIG. 21 illustrates exemplary base structures 100 which are suspended
work
platform systems, with integrated second structures 200 which are supported
work platform
systems. In the embodiment shown, base structures 100 are suspended from
structure 90,
which is a diagonal beam. As illustrated, second structure 200 is integrated
with base
structure 100 using integration system 300 to provide access not only the
undersides of
structure 90, but also the side portions of structure 90 between suspended
work platforms.
[00102] FIG. 21 also shows that base structures 100 may be integrated with and
depend on
second structure 200. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 21, base structure
100 may be an
articulatable suspended work platform system, with suspended work platform
system 100b
built off of supported work platform system 200a and suspended work platform
system 100c
is built off of supported work platform system 200b as described in relation
to FIGS. 6-10.
Therefore, to continue accessing structure 90 above supported work platform
200c, workers
can assemble additional suspended work platforms, such as described in FIGS. 6-
10, from
supported work platform 200c and then assemble additional supported work
platform
systems integrated with the newly suspended platform system as described
herein.
[00103] FIG. 22 illustrates a further exemplary embodiment of a base structure
100
integrated with a second structure 200 using access structure integration
assemblies 300. In
the exemplary embodiment shown, base structure 100 is a suspended work
platform
assembly and second structure 200 is a supported work platform assembly. Base
structure
100 is suspended from an overhead structure (not shown) and used to access
substructures
91. For example,
[00104] As illustrated in FIG. 22, base structure 100 is suspended from an
overhead
structure with second structure 200, which is a supported work platform
system, built upward
from base structure 100. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 22, six
levels of
supported work platform are secured above base structure 100. As illustrated
in FIG. 22, the
levels of the supported work platform system are parallel with, but not
coplanar to, each
other. As described above, the number of levels of second structure 200
integrated with a
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base structure 100 will vary depending on the job to be done and the maximum
about of
weight joists 140 can support.
[00105] FIG. 23 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a base structure 100
with access
structure integration assemblies 300 integrating a second structure 200,
wherein the base
structure 100 is a suspended work platform system and the second structure 200
is a
supported work structure system. The supported work platform system is built
upward from
the suspended work platform system secured under structure 90, which in the
embodiment
shown is a structure spanning two points, such as, for example, a bridge or
portion of an off-
shore rig. As illustrated, base structure 100 is suspended under structure 90
and also extends
outside the footprint of the overhead structure 90. Second structure 200 is
built upward from
the portion of base structure 100 which is not directly under structure 90 in
order to access
the sides of structure 90.
[00106] In further embodiments, a second structure may be integrated with a
base
structure to provide support for objects, such as tarps or barriers, as shown
in FIG. 24. In
FIG. 24, second structure 200 is integrated with base structure 100 using
integration
assemblies 300, and second structure is used to secure barrier 95 which is a
tarp. When, for
example, painting structure 90, barrier 95 prevents debris (e.g., dirt, dust,
water, pollen) from
entering the work area and damaging or disrupting the painting or drying
processes. Barrier
95 also prevents contaminants (e.g., fumes, vapor, particles) from escaping
the work area and
entering the environment. Second structure 200 is therefore used to create
factory-like
conditions in the field.
[00107] Although the figures and description provided herein illustrate a
base structure
100 which is a suspended or articulated suspended work platform system
integrated with a
second structure which is a supported work platform system, it is understood
that integration
assembly 300 may be used to integrate a variety of base structures and second
structures.
[00108] The foregoing description of the present invention has been presented
for
purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive
or to limit the
invention to the precise form disclosed or to the materials in which the form
may be
embodied, and many modifications and variations are possible in light of the
above teaching.
[00109] It is specifically intended that the present invention not be
limited to the
embodiments and illustrations contained herein, but include modified forms of
those
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embodiments including portions of the embodiments and combinations of elements
of
different embodiments as come within the scope of the following claims.
24
