Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
=
WORK PLATFORM AND METHOD
[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is related to a work platform whose legs
are coplanar
with the platform in a closed position in which has a hinge bracket having a
tab against which
a leg contacts and is stopped when the ladder is placed in an open position.
The present
invention is related to a work platform which has a handle that allows the
work platform to be
lifted when in the use state without tipping. (As used herein, references to
the "present
invention" or "invention" relate to exemplary embodiments and not necessarily
to every
embodiment encompassed by the appended claims.) More specifically, the present
invention
is related to a work platform INilich has a handle that allows the work
platfonn to be lifted
when in the use state without tipping where the handle is disposed in the
platform and formed
from two adjacent slots.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various
aspects of the art that
may be related to various aspects of the present invention. The following
discussion is
intended to provide information to facilitate a better understanding of the
present invention.
Accordingly, it should be understood that statements in the following
discussion are to be read
in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.
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reach of someone standing on the ground or floor. These work platforms
typically consist of
a platform with a pair of legs at each end which are folded up against the
platform for transport
or storage and are unfolded for use.
[0005] When
the legs are unfolded for use, it can be awkward for the user to move the
work platform as work progresses. Typically, the user would have to put down
paint
brushes, paint bucket, etc., and use both hands to pick up the work platform
by its sides. Or,
the user might use one hand to grasp the side edge of the work platfo, __ in
which results in the
platform tipping and the extended legs potentially bumping into or becoming
entangled with
other objects in the work area.
[0006] It is
desirable to have a handle on the work platform made and positioned in
such a way as to allow the work platform to be conveniently picked up with one
hand yet
without tipping. In this disclosure, such a handle will be described.
[0007] When
the legs are unfolded for use, it is desirable that the legs open against a
firm stop. This contributes to the rigidity of the work platform and helps
convey to the user a
sense of solidness when standing on the work platform. The tabs on the hinge
brackets
provide this firm stop.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The
present invention pertains to an apparatus on which a user with hands
stands. The apparatus comprises a platform having a first end and a second end
and a handle.
The apparatus comprises a first leg assembly rotatably attached to the
platform in proximity to
the first end. The apparatus comprises a second leg assembly attentively
attached to the
platform in proximity to the second end. When the first and second leg
assemblies are
essentially in parallel with the platform, the apparatus is in a folded state.
When the first and
second leg assemblies are essentially perpendicular to the platform, the
apparatus is in a use
state and the user is able to stand on the platform and be supported by the
first and second leg
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assemblies. When the apparatus is in the use state, the user is able to pick
up the apparatus by
the handle with only one of the hands without tipping the apparatus.
[0009] The present invention pertains to an apparatus on which a user
with hands
stands. The apparatus comprises a platform having a first end and a second end
and a handle
disposed in the platform. The handle has a first slot and a second slot
adjacent the first slot.
The first and second slots are disposed essentially in the platform's middle
and have an oval
shape. The apparatus comprises a support bar attached to the platform's bottom
extending
along the platform's centerline. The apparatus comprises a first insert
disposed in the first slot
and attached to the support bar. The first insert having a shape which
conforms with the shape
of the first slot. The apparatus comprises a second insert disposed in the
second slot and
attached to the support bar. The second insert having a shape which conforms
with the shape
of the second slots. The apparatus comprises a first leg assembly rotatably
attached to the
platform in proximity to the first end. The apparatus comprises a second leg
assembly
attentively attached to the platform in proximity to the second end. When the
first and second
leg assemblies are essentially in parallel with the platform, the apparatus is
in a folded state.
When the first and second leg assemblies are essentially perpendicular to the
platform, the
apparatus is in a use state and the user is able to stand on the platform and
be supported by the
first and second leg assemblies. When the apparatus is in the use state, the
user is able to pick
up the apparatus by the handle with only one of the hands without tipping the
apparatus.
[0010] The present invention pertains to a method for a user with hands
to stand on an
apparatus. The method comprises the steps of placing the apparatus that is in
a use state in a
desired location. The apparatus comprises a platform having a first end and a
second end and
a handle; a first leg assembly rotatably attached to the platform in proximity
to the first end, a
second leg assembly attentively attached to the platform in proximity to the
second end, when
the first and second leg assemblies are essentially in parallel with the
platform, the apparatus
is in a folded state, when the first and on leg assemblies are essentially
perpendicular to the
platform, the apparatus is in a use state and the user is able to stand on the
platform and be
supported by the first and second leg assemblies, when the apparatus is in the
use state, the
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user is able to pick up the apparatus by the handle with only one of the hands
without tipping
the apparatus. There is the step of placing an object on the platform. There
is the step of
grabbing the handle in the platform while the apparatus is in the use state.
There is the step of
lifting the apparatus by the handle with one hand by the user while the user's
other hand is free
so the apparatus does not tip and the object is not come off the platform.
There is the step of
placing the apparatus back down on to ground with the object still on the
platform.
[00111 The present invention pertains to an apparatus on which a user
with hands
stands. The apparatus comprises a platform having a length, a width, a first
end and a second
end, a handle, a centerline in parallel with the length and a center of
gravity, the length longer
than the width. The apparatus comprises a first leg assembly rotatably
attached to the platform
in proximity to the first end. The apparatus comprises a second leg assembly
attentively
attached to the platform in proximity to the second end. When the first and
second leg
assemblies are essentially in parallel with the platform, the apparatus is in
a folded state.
When the first and on leg assemblies are essentially perpendicular to the
platform, the
apparatus is in a use state and the user is able to stand on the platform and
be supported by the
first and second leg assemblies. When the apparatus is in the use state, the
user is able to pick
up the apparatus by the handle with only one of the hands without tipping the
apparatus. The
handle is disposed in the platform. The handle has a first slot and a second
slot adjacent the
first slot. The first and second slots are disposed essentially in the
platform's middle. Each slot
has a first elongate side and a second elongate side essentially in parallel
and spaced relation
with the first elongate side, with each elongate side essentially
perpendicular with the
centerline.
[0012] The present invention pertains to an apparatus on which a user
with hands
stands. The apparatus comprises a platform having a length, a width, a first
end and a second
end, a centerline in parallel with the length and a handle disposed in the
platform. The handle
has a first slot and a second slot adjacent the first slot. The first and
second slots disposed
essentially in the platform's middle and each having an oval shape. The
apparatus comprises a
support bar attached to the platform's bottom extending parallel to the
platform's centerline.
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¨
The apparatus comprises a crossbar attached to the platform's bottom extending
perpendicular
to the platform's centerline. The first slot is on a right side of the
crossbar. The second slot is
on a left side of the crossbar. The apparatus comprises a first leg assembly
rotatably attached
to the platform in proximity to the first end. The apparatus comprises a
second leg assembly
attentively attached to the platform in proximity to the second end. When the
first and second
leg assemblies are essentially in parallel with the platform, the apparatus is
in a folded state.
When the first and second leg assemblies are essentially perpendicular to the
platform, the
apparatus is in a use state and the user is able to stand on the platform and
be supported by the
first and second leg assemblies. When the apparatus is in the use state, the
user is able to pick
up the apparatus by the handle with only one of the hands without tipping the
apparatus.
[0013] The
present invention pertains to a method for a user with hands to stand on an
apparatus. The method comprises the steps of placing the apparatus that is in
a use state in a
desired location. The apparatus comprises a platform having a length, a width,
a first end and
a second end and a handle; a first leg assembly rotatably attached to the
platform in proximity
to the first end, a second leg assembly attentively attached to the platform
in proximity to the
second end. When the first and second leg assemblies are essentially in
parallel with the
platform, the apparatus is in a folded state. When the first and on leg
assemblies are essentially
perpendicular to the platform, the apparatus is in a use state and the user is
able to stand on the
platform and be supported by the first and second leg assemblies. When the
apparatus is in the
use state, the user is able to pick up the apparatus by the handle with only
one of the hands
without tipping the apparatus. The handle is disposed in the platform. The
handle has a first
slot and a second slot adjacent the first slot. The first and second slots are
disposed essentially
in the platform's middle, each slot has a first elongate side and a second
elongate side
essentially in parallel and spaced relation with the first elongate side, with
each elongate side
essentially perpendicular with the centerline. There is the step of placing an
object on the
platform. There is the step of grabbing the handle in the platform while the
apparatus is in the
use state. There is the step of lifting the apparatus by the handle with one
hand by the user
while the user's other hand is free so the apparatus does not tip and the
object is not come off
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the platform. There is the step of placing the apparatus back down on to
ground with the object
still on the platform.
[0014] The present invention pertains to a work platform. The work
platform
comprises a platform. The work platform comprises a first leg assembly
attached in proximity
to a first end of the platform. The first leg assembly having a first leg and
a second leg
opposing the first leg, and a step attached to the first and second legs. The
work platform
comprises a second leg assembly attached in proximity to a second end of the
platform. The
work platform comprises a hinge bracket attached to the platform in proximity
to the first end
of the platform and to the first leg of the first leg assembly. The hinge
bracket having a tab
which extends outward from the platform. The first leg rotating relative to
the platform with
the hinge bracket between a closed position where the first leg is coplanar
with the platform,
and an open position where the first leg contacts the tab, which acts as a
stop, preventing the
first leg from opening further. The first leg pushing against the tab from a
load on the
platform, in the open position. The platform is supported by the first and
second leg
assemblies and the first leg forms an angle between 90 degrees and 145 degrees
with the
platform.
[0015] The present invention pertains to a method for using a work
platform. The
method comprises the steps of moving a first leg assembly in a closed position
with a platform
where a first and second leg of the leg assembly are coplanar with the
platform to an open
position by the first leg rotating about a hinge bracket to which the first
leg is attached until the
first leg contacts a tab that extends from the hinge bracket and stops the
first leg. There is the
step of placing the work platform in the open position in a desired location.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
[0016] In the accompanying drawings, the preferred embodiment of the
invention and
preferred methods of practicing the invention are illustrated in which:
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[0017] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a work platform with the legs
extended
and ready for use.
[0018] Figure 2 shows a top view of the work platform.
[0019] Figure 3 shows a close up view of the handle construction details.
[0020] Figure 4 shows the underside of the work platform.
[0021] Figure 5 shows the underside of the work platform.
[0022] Figure 6 shows the apparatus in a folded state.
[0023] Figure 7 shows an overhead perspective view of a handle insert.
[0024] Figure 8 shows an underside perspective view of a handle insert.
[0025] Figures 9-11 are overhead, side and underneath views,
respectively, of a
handle insert.
[0026] Figure 12 is an overhead perspective view of the apparatus with a
strap as they
handle.
[0027] Figure 13 is a perspective underside view of the apparatus with
the strap.
[0028] Figure 14 is a side view of the apparatus with the strap.
[0029] Figure 15 is a front view of the apparatus with the strap.
[0030] Figure 16 shows an underside view of the apparatus with the slots
essentially
perpendicular with the centerline of the apparatus.
[0031] Figure 17 shows a close up view of the handle construction details
with the
slots essentially perpendicular with the centerline of the apparatus.
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[0032] Figure 18 is an overhead view of the handle embodiment where the
slots are
positioned essentially perpendicular with the centerline of the apparatus.
[0033] Figure 19 is a close-up top view of an alternative embodiment of
the handle.
[0034] Figure 20 is a top view of the apparatus with the alternative
embodiment of the
handle.
[0035] Figure 21 is a close-up bottom view of the alternative embodiment
of the
handle.
[0036] Figure 22 is a bottom view of the apparatus with the alternative
embodiment of
the handle.
[0037] Figures 23A and 23B show the work platform with its leg
assemblies.
[0038] Figures 24A-24C show the work platform from below in the stowed
configuration.
[0039] Figures 25A-25F show the hinge bracket parts, RH and LH.
[0040] Figure 26 is an overhead view of the hinge bracket.
[0041] Figure 27 is an overhead view of the work platform in a closed
position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0042] Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference numerals
refer to similar
or identical parts throughout the several views, and more specifically to
figure 1 thereof, there
is shown an apparatus 10 on which a user with hands stands. The apparatus 10
comprises a
platform 12 having a first end 14 and a second end 16 and a handle 2. The
apparatus 10
comprises a first leg assembly 20 rotatably attached to the platform 12 in
proximity to the first
end 14. The apparatus 10 comprises a second leg assembly 22 attentively
attached to the
platform 12 in proximity to the second end 16. When the first and second leg
assemblies 20,
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22 are essentially in parallel with the platform 12, the apparatus 10 is in a
folded state, as
shown in figure 6. When the first and second leg assemblies 20, 22 are
essentially
perpendicular to the platform 12, the apparatus 10 is in a use state and the
user is able to stand
on the platform 12 and be supported by the first and second leg assemblies, as
shown in figure
1. When the apparatus 10 is in the use state, the user is able to pick up the
apparatus 10 by the
handle 2 with only one of the hands without tipping the apparatus 10.
100431 The handle 2 may be disposed in the platform 12. The handle 2 may
have a
first slot 24 and a second slot 26 adjacent the first slot 24, as shown in
figure 3. The first and
second slots 24, 26 are disposed essentially in the platfolin's middle 28. The
handle 2 may
have a centerline 30 and a center of gravity, and the first slot 24 is
disposed on a first side 32 of
the centerline 30 and above the platform's center of gravity and the second
slot 26 is disposed
on a second side 34 of the centerline 30 and above the platform's center of
gravity. Each slot
may extend through the platform 12 from the platform's top 36 to the platform
bottom 38, as
shown in figures 3,4 and 5.
[0044] Each slot may have a first elongate side 40 and a second elongate
side 42
essentially in parallel and spaced relation with the first elongate side 40,
with each elongate
side essentially in parallel with the centerline 30, as shown in figure 3.
Alternatively, each
elongate side is essentially perpendicular with the centerline 30, as shown in
figure 16. Each
slot may have an oval shape. The handle 2 may include a first insert 44 that
fits in the first slot
24 and conforms with the oval shape of the first slot 24 and a second insert
46 that fits in the
second slot 26 and conforms to the oval shape of the second slot 26.
[0045] Each insert may have holes 5 through which fasteners 50 extend to
hold the
insert to the slot, as shown in figure 4. The first and second leg assemblies
20, 22 each may
be comprised of a first leg 52 and a second leg 54 in spaced relation and in
parallel with the
first leg 52, as shown in figure 1. Each leg assembly may have a step 56
attached between the
first and second legs 52, 54 on which the user can step to reach and stand on
the platform 12
when the apparatus 10 is in the use state.
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[0046] The present invention pertains to an apparatus 10 on which a user
with hands
stands, as shown in figures 1 and 3. The apparatus 10 comprises a platform 12
having a first
end 14 and a second end 16 and a handle 2 disposed in the platform 12. The
handle 2 has a first
slot 24 and a second slot 26 adjacent the first slot 24. The first and second
slots 24, 26 are
disposed essentially in the platform's middle 28 and have an oval shape. The
apparatus 10
comprises a support bar 6 attached to the platform's bottom 38 extending along
the platform's
centerline 30, as shown in figures 4 and 5. The apparatus 10 comprises a first
insert 44
disposed in the first slot 24 and attached to the support bar 6. The first
insert 44 having a shape
which conforms with the shape of the first slot 24. The apparatus 10 comprises
a second insert
46 disposed in the second slot 26 and attached to the support bar 6. The
second insert 46 has a
shape which conforms with the shape of the second slot 26. The apparatus 10
comprises a first
leg assembly 20 rotatably attached to the platform 12 in proximity to the
first end 14. The
apparatus 10 comprises a second leg assembly 22 attentively attached to the
platform 12 in
proximity to the second end 16. When the first and second leg assemblies are
essentially in
parallel with the platform 12, the apparatus 10 is in a folded state, as shown
in figure 6. When
the first and second leg assemblies are essentially perpendicular to the
platform 12, the
apparatus 10 is in a use state and the user is able to stand on the platform
12 and be supported
by the first and second leg assemblies, as shown in figure 1. When the
apparatus 10 is in the
use state, the user is able to pick up the apparatus 10 by the handle 2 with
only one of the hands
without tipping the apparatus 10.
[0047] The present invention pertains to a method for a user with hands
to stand on an
apparatus 10. The method comprises the steps of placing the apparatus 10 that
is in a use state
in a desired location. The apparatus 10 comprises a platform 12 having a first
end 14 and a
second end 16 and a handle 2; a first leg assembly 20 rotatably attached to
the platform 12 in
proximity to the first end 14, a second leg assembly 22 attentively attached
to the platform 12
in proximity to the second end 16, when the first and second leg assemblies
are essentially in
parallel with the platform 12, the apparatus 10 is in a folded state, when the
first and on leg
assemblies are essentially perpendicular to the platform 12, the apparatus 10
is in a use state
and the user is able to stand on the platform 12 and be supported by the first
and second leg
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¨ ¨
assemblies, when the apparatus 10 is in the use state, the user is able to
pick up the apparatus
by the handle 2 with only one of the hands without tipping the apparatus 10.
There is the
step of placing an object 57 on the platform 12. There is the step of grabbing
the handle 2 in
the platform 12 while the apparatus 10 is in the use state. There is the step
of lifting the
apparatus 10 by the handle 2 with one hand by the user while the user's other
hand is free so
the apparatus 10 does not tip and the object does not come off the platform
12. There is the
step of placing the apparatus 10 back down on to ground with the object still
on the platform
12.
[0048] Each handle 2 insert has a first flange 60 and a second flange 62
that forms an
angle, preferably about 90 , as shown in figures 7 and 8, with the first
flange 60. Essentially,
the first flange 60 and second flange 62 together form an L shape. The second
flange 62 has
holes 5 that align with holes 5 in a support bar 6, as shown in figures 4 and
5. The support bar
6 extends along the centerline 30 of the platform 12 and is attached to the
bottom 38 of the
platform 12. Each end of the support bar 6 rests on a lip 64 of an end flange
66 at each end of
the platform 12. By resting on a lip 64 of an end flange 66 at each end of the
platfolin 12, the
support bar 6 is supported by the leg assemblies which extend down from the
end flanges 66.
The support bar 6 provides support and strength to the platfolin 12. In
addition, there are
pluralities of crossbars 68 that extend across the width of the platform 12
and are attached to
the bottom 38 of the platform 12 and to the support bar 6, through which they
extend. The end
of each crossbar is on the lip 64 of a side flange 70 of the platform 12 on
each long side of the
platform 12. The crossbars 68 add even further strength and support to the
platform 12.
[0049] The first flange 60 has a first section 72 that extends from the
second flange 62
and a second section 74 that has an oval shaped opening, as shown in figures 7
and 8 that fits
into and corresponds with the oval shaped opening in the platfoim 12 of the
slot. The oval
shaped opening in the second section 74 has a ridge 76 extending from the
surface of the
second section 74 along the perimeter of the oval shaped opening. A hinge 78
at each corner
of the platform 12 attaches the leg assemblies to the platform 12.
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[0050] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a work platform 12 with the
legs 52, 54
extended and ready for use. The legs 52, 54 are designed to fold up under the
platform 12 to
allow for convenient storage of the work platform 12 when not in use. One
possible form of
handle 2 is shown.
[0051] Figure 2 shows a top view of the work platform 12, with dimensions
regarding
the slot positions relative to each other and the platform. The handle 2 is
formed by having
slots 24, 26 in the work platform decking 57. The slots are located in the
center of the work
platform 12 above its center of gravity. These slots are sized to conform to
the dimensions of
a user's fingers. The slots arc symmetric so as to be for use with either
hand.
[0052] Figure 3 shows a close-up view of the handle 2 construction details.
Handle
inserts 44, 46 are located in the slots. These inserts insure that any
potentially rough edges
remaining after slots are formed in the work platform 12 decking are covered
up. These
inserts also provide a deeper gripping surface for the comfort of the user.
The inserts could
be made of molded plastic.
[0053] Figure 4 shows the underside of the work platform 12 and details of
how the
inserts 44, 46 might be attached. Holes 5 in the inserts and the central
support bar 6 allow for
the use of screws or pop rivets, etc.
[0054] Figures 9-11 are overhead, side and underneath views, respectively,
of a
handle insert with dimensions of a preferred embodiment. The dimensions of the
insert may
be changed depending on the loads and size of the apparatus 10.
[0055] For use, the apparatus 10 is carried by the user to a desired
location, where the
user unfolds each leg assembly until each leg assembly extends essentially
perpendicularly
from the platform 12, and is now in the use state. The operation of the hinges
and the leg
assemblies is well known with work platforms.
[0056] The user will then stand on the work platform 12 in conduct whatever
actions
are necessary. When the user desires to move the work platform 12 to another
location, but
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does not want to have to fold the work platfoltit 12 up to the folded state,
and wants to have
use of a hand to be free to hold an object while the user lifts and moves the
work platform 12
in the use state, the user with one hand inserts a sum in the first slot 24
and the four fingers in
the second slot 26 and grabs the portion of the platform 12 that is disposed
between the first
slot 24 and the second slot 26. This effectively acts as a handle 2 for the
user to then lift the
work platform 12 while it is in a use state, and move the work platform 12 to
another location
without the work platform 12 tipping. The work platform 12 would not tip since
the handle 2
is in the center of the platform 12, and by lifting up the platform 12
basically straight up, with
the weight of the platform 12 evenly distributed around the handle 2, there is
no unbalanced
side that would otherwise cause the platform 12 to tip as it is left and. This
way, objects on the
work platform 12, such as paint cans, or hands with putty or oils, can stay in
place on the work
platform 12 while it is being moved, without having to be removed from the
platform 12 are
closed up.
[0057] It can be seen that the disclosed handle 2 satisfies the need for
a means by
which a user can grasp, lift, and move a work platform 12 with one hand while
maintaining the
work platform 12 in an upright position.
[0058] The handle 2 described is only one of many possible ways to
accomplish the
goals of this invention. Various other possible means could include having
straps or handles
similar to those used on brief cases or suit cases which are attached to the
deck of the work
platform 12. These handles could be made to stow flush with the upper surface
of the work
platform 12 when not needed. The apparatus provides means for a user to pick
up a work
platform with one hand while allowing the work platform to remain in a
generally level
orientation.
[0059] The apparatus 10 may be a Werner AP-30 work platform, modified to
include
a handle 2, which has a duty rating or 1 and able to support at least 250
pounds of load. The
apparatus 10 can support greater loads, such as at least 500 pounds if so
desired, with the
platform and leg assemblies made thicker in material to support the increased
load.
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[0060] In an alternative view, as shown in figures 12-15, the handle 2
alternatively is a
strap 89 that is attached to the platform 12 at its middle 28 in a
longitudinal relationship with
the centerline 33 and at the balance point 91 of the apparatus 10. The strap
89 has an elongate
portion 93 in spaced relationship with the platform 12 which a user grabs to
lift the apparatus
10, and opposing connection portions 95 which extend down from the elongate
portion 93 of
the strap 89 and wrap around the center decking 97 of the platform 12 to
attach the strap 89 to
the platform 12. The opposing connection portions 95 split and form a loop
around the center
decking 97 to attach the strap 89 to the platform 12. By being positioned at
the bellows .91
along the centerline 33, when the apparatus 10 is lifted by the strap 89, the
platform 12 should
not tip, but remain level. The strap 89 is between .5 inches thick and 3
inches thick and can be
made out of cloth, plastic or metal. The elongate portion 93 can have
chamfered or rounded
edges so it is comfortable for the user to grab and limits any rubbing,
cutting or pressure points
to the user's hand.
[0061] In another embodiment, as shown in figures 16, 17 and 18, the
present
invention pertains to an apparatus 10 on which a user with hands stands. The
apparatus 10
comprises a platform 12 having a length, a width, a first end 14 and a second
end 16, a handle
2, a centerline 30 in parallel with the length and a center of gravity, the
length longer than the
width. The apparatus 10 comprises a first leg assembly 20 rotatably attached
to the platform
12 in proximity to the first end. The apparatus 10 comprises a second leg
assembly 22
attentively attached to the platform 12 in proximity to the second end 16.
When the first and
second leg assemblies are essentially in parallel with the platform 12, the
apparatus 10 is in a
folded state. When the first and second leg assemblies are essentially
perpendicular to the
platform 12, the apparatus 10 is in a use state and the user is able to stand
on the platform 12
and be supported by the first and second leg assemblies. When the apparatus 10
is in the use
state, the user is able to pick up the apparatus 10 by the handle 2 with only
one of the hands
without tipping the apparatus 10. The handle 2 is disposed in the platform 12.
The handle 2
has a first slot 24 and a second slot 26 adjacent the first slot 24. The first
and second slots 24,
26 are disposed essentially in the platform's 12 middle 28. Each slot has a
first elongate side
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and a second elongate side essentially in parallel and spaced relation with
the first elongate
side, with each elongate side essentially perpendicular with the centerline
30.
[0062] Each slot may extend through the platform 12 from the platform's
top to the
platform 12 bottom. Each slot may have an oval shape. The first slot 24 and
the second slot 26
may be disposed in an attachment 102 that fits into an opening 108 in the
platform 12. The
first and second leg assembly 22 each may comprise a first leg and a second
leg in spaced
relation and in parallel with the first leg. Each leg assembly may have a step
attached between
the first and second legs on which the user and step to reach and stand on the
platform 12 when
the apparatus 10 is in the use state.
[0063] The present invention pertains to an apparatus 10 on which a user
with hands
stands. The apparatus 10 comprises a platform 12 having a length, a width, a
first end 14 and a
second end 16, a centerline 30 in parallel with the length and a handle 2
disposed in the
platform 12. The handle 2 has a first slot 24 and a second slot 26 adjacent
the first slot 24. The
first and second slots 24, 26 disposed essentially in the platfoim's middle 28
and each having
an oval shape. The apparatus 10 comprises a support bar 6 attached to the
platform's bottom
extending parallel to the platform's centerline 30. The apparatus 10 comprises
a crossbar 68
attached to the platform's bottom extending perpendicular to the platform's
centerline 30. The
first slot 24 is on a right side 104 of the crossbar 68. The second slot 26 is
on a left side 106 of
the crossbar 68. The apparatus 10 comprises a first leg assembly 20 rotatably
attached to the
platform 12 in proximity to the first end 14. The apparatus 10 comprises a
second leg
assembly 22 attentively attached to the platform 12 in proximity to the second
end 16. When
the first and second leg assemblies are essentially in parallel with the
platform 12, the
apparatus 10 is in a folded state. When the first and second leg assemblies
are essentially
perpendicular to the platform 12, the apparatus 10 is in a use state and the
user is able to stand
on the platform 12 and be supported by the first and second leg assemblies.
When the
apparatus 10 is in the use state, the user is able to pick up the apparatus 10
by the handle 2 with
only one of the hands without tipping the apparatus 10.
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[0064] The present invention pertains to a method for a user with hands
to stand on an
apparatus 10. The method comprises the steps of placing the apparatus 10 that
is in a use state
in a desired location. The apparatus 10 comprises a platform 12 having a
length, a width, a
first end 14 and a second end 16 and a handle 2; a first leg assembly 20
rotatably attached to
the platform 12 in proximity to the first end 14, a second leg assembly 22
attentively attached
to the platform 12 in proximity to the second end 16. When the first and
second leg assemblies
are essentially in parallel with the platform 12, the apparatus 10 is in a
folded state. When the
first and on leg assemblies are essentially perpendicular to the platform 12,
the apparatus 10 is
in a use state and the user is able to stand on the platform 12 and be
supported by the first and
second leg assemblies. When the apparatus 10 is in the use state, the user is
able to pick up the
apparatus 10 by the handle 2 with only one of the hands without tipping the
apparatus 10. The
handle 2 is disposed in the platform 12. The handle 2 has a first slot 24 and
a second slot 26
adjacent the first slot 24. The first and second slots 24, 26 are disposed
essentially in the
platform's middle 28, each slot has a first elongate side and a second
elongate side essentially
in parallel and spaced relation with the first elongate side, with each
elongate side essentially
perpendicular with the centerline 30. There is the step of placing an object
on the platform.
There is the step of grabbing the handle 2 in the platform 12 while the
apparatus 10 is in the
use state. There is the step of lifting the apparatus 10 by the handle 2 with
one hand by the user
while the user's other hand is free so the apparatus 10 does not tip and the
object is not come
off the platform 12. There is the step of placing the apparatus 10 back down
on to ground with
the object still on the platform 12.
[0065] As shown in figures 16, 17 and 18, the handle 2 is positioned into
the platform
12 through a single opening 108 in the surface of the platform 12 which is
filled with an
attachment 102 that is a piece of plastic that has the first and second slots
24, 26. There is a
crossbar 68 that is part of the structure of the platform 12 that is not
removed and the plastic
handle 2 includes this crossbar 68 as part of the hand hold. When the user
grabs the handle 2,
the thumb of the user's hand extends through the first slot 24 and the fingers
of the user's hand
extend through the second slot 26. When the user forms a grip with his hand,
the fingers and
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thumb wrap around the crossbar 68 under the first and second slots 24, 26 to
grab the
apparatus 10 and lift it.
[0066] As shown in figures 17 and 18, there are two support bars 6
extending in
parallel along the length of the platform 12 and under the platform 12. The
opening 108 in the
platform 12 is between these two support bars 6. The attachment 102 fits into
this opening 108
so the top surface of the attachment 102 is flush and smooth with the top
surface of the
platform 12. This way, there is nothing sticking up that a user can catch on
or trip over when
standing on the platform 12 on or about the handle 2. Screws, rivets, or bolts
are used to attach
the attachment 102 to the support bars 6. The attachment 102 has a handle 2
flange along its
top surface and about its perimeter that fits onto the support bars 6, and
through which the
fasteners 50, such as bolts, rivets or screws are inserted to permanently fix
the handle 2 to the
platform 12. The crossbar 68 is disposed under the two support bars 6 and
positioned
perpendicularly thereto and is riveted with fasteners 50, such as rivets or
bolts to the support
bars 6. Each end of the crossbar 68 rests on a side flange 70 on each side of
the platform 12
and is bolted or riveted with fasteners 50, such as bolts or rivets to the
side flanges 70.
[0067] Each slot of the attachment 102 is oval shaped and is formed from
a first wall
112, a second wall 114, a third wall 116 and a fourth wall 118 extending down
from the handle
2 flange. The first wall 112 is in parallel and spaced relation with the
second wall 114 and the
third wall 116 is in parallel and spaced relation with the fourth wall 118.
The first wall 112 is
connected with the third wall 116 and the fourth wall 118, and the second wall
114 is
connected with the third wall 116 and the fourth wall 118. The walls extend
down from the
handle 2 flange a distance less than the distance the sidebars extend down
from the platfolin
12 and not as far as the distance the crossbar 68 is below the platform 12.
The first slot 24 and
the second slot 26 are spaced apart about the same distance as the width of
the crossbar 68 so
the user can fit his hand through the first and second slots 24, 26 and grab
the crossbar 68. The
attachment 102 has a center portion 120 disposed between the first and second
slots 24, 26.
[0068] In another embodiment, and referring to figures 19-22, the first
insert 44 has a
first tab 154 located at a first end of the first insert 44 and a second tab
156 located at a second
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end of the first insert 44 to hold the first insert 44 from lifting up out of
the platform 12 when
the handle 2 is grabbed by a user to lift the apparatus 10. The first insert
44 has a first rivet
upset portion 150 extending outwards from the bottom of the first elongate
side 40, and a
second rivet upset portion 152 extending outwards from the bottom of the
second elongate
side 42. Each rivet upset portion receives a rivet that extends through the
platform 12 from the
top 36 of the platform to fix the first insert 44 to the platform 12 in the
first slot 24. The tabs
122 and the rivet upset portions are disposed on the bottom 38 of the platform
12 when the
first insert 44 is in place so the top 36 of the platform 12 is essentially
smooth and flat. The
rivet upset portions have a curved or a bump shape. The second insert 46 in
this embodiment
is designed in the same way. The rivet upset portions may also be used with
the attachment
102.
100691 The
present invention pertains to a work platform 10, as shown in figures 23A,
23B, 24A-24C and 27. The work platform 10 comprises a platform 12. The work
platform
comprises a first leg assembly 20 attached in proximity to a first end 14 of
the platform.
The first leg assembly 20 having a first leg 52 and a second leg 54 opposing
the first leg 52,
and a step 56 attached to the first and second legs. The work platform 10
comprises a second
leg assembly 22 attached in proximity to a second end 16 of the platform 12.
The work
platform 10 comprises a hinge bracket 120 attached to the platform in
proximity to the first
end 14 of the platform and to the first leg 52 of the first leg assembly 20.
The hinge bracket
120 having a tab 122 which extends outward from the platform 12. The first leg
52 rotating
relative to the platform 12 with the hinge bracket 120 between a closed
position where the first
leg 52 is coplanar with the platform 12, and an open position where the first
leg 52 contacts the
tab 122, which acts as a stop, preventing the first leg 52 from opening
further. The first leg 52
pushing against the tab 122 from a load on the platform 12, in the open
position. The platform
is supported by the first and second leg assemblies 20, 22 and the first leg
52 forms an angle
between 90 degrees and 145 degrees with the platform. The step 56 is
preferably attached to
the rear face 70 of each leg so the step 56 will clear the underside of the
platform 12 when the
first leg assembly 20 is in the closed position, as shown in figure 24A.
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[0070] The platform may have a handle 2. The first leg may be attached to
the
platform by a single pivot rivet 124 that extends from the first leg through
the hinge bracket
120 and to the platform, as shown in figure 26. The hinge bracket 120 may have
a first
portion 136 which is flat and is fixed with fasteners 170 to a first side 40
of the platform in
proximity to the first end 14 of the platform 12, as shown in figures 25A-25F.
The first
portion 136 has a pivot hole 140 through which the pivot rivet 124 extends and
the first side 40
has a side hole 144 through which the pivot rivet 124 extends. The side hole
144 and the pivot
hole 140 are in alignment. The work platform 10 may include a leg bracket 128
attached
with a 160 to the first leg in proximity to a top 162 of the first leg. The
leg bracket 128 may
define a pocket 164 with the first leg in which a first flange 130 of the
pivot rivet 124 is seated.
The leg bracket 128 having a leg hole 142 through which the pivot rivet 124
extends toward
the hinge bracket 120 from the pocket 164. The leg bracket 128 disposed
between the first
flange 130 of the pivot rivet 124 and the hinge bracket 120.
[0071] The pivot rivet 124 may have a second flange 132 disposed inside
the first side
40 of the platform so the first side 40 of the platform is disposed between
the second flange
132 and the hinge bracket 120. The pivot rivet 124 may have a central portion
152 which is
cylindrically shaped so the first leg can rotate about the central portion
152. The first flange
130 attached in proximity to a first end of the central portion 152 and flares
out from the
central portion 152 so the pivot rivet 124 cannot come out of the leg hole
142. The second
flange 132 attached in proximity to a second end of the central portion 152
and flares out from
the central portion 152 of the pivot rivet 124 so the pivot rivet 124 cannot
come out of the side
hole 144.
[0072] The hinge bracket 120 may include a second portion 138 which is
flat and
extends down from the first portion 136 and together with the first portion
136 forms an L
shape. The platform may include a cover 126 which attaches to the first end of
the platform
and the second portion 138 attaches to the cover 126. The first and second
portions 136, 138
form a one-piece plate. The hinge bracket 120 may include a bottom flange 146
which
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extends perpendicularly inward from a bottom of the second portion 138 toward
the platform.
The bottom platform disposed under the cover 126.
[0073] The tab 122 may extend perpendicularly outward away from the
platform from
a side of the second portion 138. The tab 122 and the bottom flange 146 and
the first and
second portions 136, 138 being one continuous piece of metal. The leg bracket
128 may
have a first element 148 that attaches to a front face 166 of the first leg
and a second clement
196 that extends perpendicularly from the first element 148 and attaches to an
inner face 168
of the first leg. The second element 196 having a bump 150. A space 134
between the bump
150 and the inner face 168 defining the pocket 164. The bump 150 having the
leg hole 142.
100741 The present invention pertains to a method for using a work
platform 10. The
method comprises the steps of moving a first leg assembly 20 in a closed
position with a
platform 12 where a first and second legs 52, 54 of the first leg assembly 20
are coplanar with
the platform 12 to an open position by the first leg 52 rotating about a hinge
bracket 120 to
which the first leg 52 is directly rotatably attached with a pivot rivet 124
until the first leg 52
contacts a tab 122 that extends from the hinge bracket 120 and stops the first
leg 52. There is
the step of placing the work platform 10 in the open position in a desired
location.
[0075] This invention comprises a hinge bracket 120 for use on folding
work
platforms in which the leg assemblies 20, 22 are positioned outside the
perimeter of the
platform. This hinge bracket 120 combines the function of a hinge for the leg
assemblies 20,
22 with the function of a solid stop against which the leg assemblies 20, 22
rest when they are
in the deployed position. This hinge bracket 120 design enables the outside-
mounted work
platform 10 leg assemblies 20, 22 to move from their stowed position to an in-
use position
which is solid and stable. The hinge bracket 120 supports a 1000 lb. load.
[0076] Figure 23B shows the work platform 10 with its leg assemblies 20,
22. It is
shown in the in-use configuration. A hinge bracket 120 is attached to the
platform at each of
its 4 corners. The leg assemblies 20, 22 are attached to the hinge brackets
120 by a single
pivot rivet 124 (seen in Fig. 23A). When the leg assemblies 20, 22 are in the
in-use position,
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the legs are in contact with the tabs 122 which are part of the hinge brackets
120. These tabs
122 prevent the leg assemblies 20, 22 from opening any further, particularly
when under load.
When under load from the platform, the load on the platform creates a force
that wants to push
out the open leg assemblies 20, 22 even further, but the tabs 122 prevent this
by the legs
pushing against the tabs 122. By pushing against the tabs 122, this force is
actually used
constructively to increase the safety of the open work platform 10 from
further opening up and
collapsing by this force more securely pushing the legs against the tabs 122
and better holding
the legs in their desired open position. Basically, the greater the load on
the platform, the
greater the force the legs push against the tab 122, and the more secure the
work platform 10 is
against collapse.
[0077] Figure 24A shows the work platform 10 from below in the stowed
configuration. Both leg assemblies 20, 22 are folded flat relative to the
platform. Figures
24B and 24C show the tabs 122 clearly. Figure 24C shows the head of the pivot
rivet 124
which protrudes through a clearance hole in the side of the platform.
[0078] Figures 25A-25C, and figures 25D-25F show the hinge bracket 120
parts, RH
and LH, respectively.
[0079] Figure 26 is an overhead view of the hinge bracket 120 attached to
the first side
40 of the platform 12 and the pivot rivet 124, through which the first leg 52
attaches to the
platform 12.
[0080] Figure 27 is an overhead view of the work platform 10 in a closed
position.
[0081] Although the invention has been described in detail in the
foregoing
cmbodiments for the purpose of illustration, it is to be understood that such
detail is solely for
that purpose and that variations can be made therein by those skilled in the
art without
departing from the spirit and scope of the invention except as it may be
described by the
following claims.
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