| JP2000073560 | HIGH LIFT WORK DEVICE |
| WO/2010/125245 | SERVICE PLATFORM ARRANGEMENT FOR A FIBER WEB MACHINE |
| WO/1996/001352 | CONNECTION HOOK |
| CLAIMS: 1. A platform comprising: a base structure including a plurality of elongated lower support members; and a support surface structure supported by the base structure, and including a plurality of elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members is connected to the base structure; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members and the elongated upper support members includes plastic material; and wherein the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least two operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least three elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least three of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected. 2. The platform as claimed in claim 1 ; wherein the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least two operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least four elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least four of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected. 3. The platform as claimed in claim 1 ; wherein the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least two operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least five elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least five of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected. 4. The platform as claimed in claim 1 ; wherein the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least two operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least six elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least six of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected. 5. The platform as claimed in claim 1; wherein the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least three operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least three elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least three of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected. 6. The platform as claimed in claim 1 ; wherein the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least three operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least four elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least four of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected. 7. The platform as claimed in claim 1 ; wherein the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least three operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least five elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least five of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected. 8. The platform as claimed in claim 1 ; wherein the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least three operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least six elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least six of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least three operative elongated upper support members is connected. 9. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members includes at least one positioning structure, wherein each one of the at least one positioning structure effects alignment of an elongated upper support member relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members, such that a plurality of positioning structures is provided. 10. The platform as claimed in claim 9; wherein the effected alignment is such that each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 11. The platform as claimed in claim 9 or 10; wherein, for each one of the elongated lower support members, each one of the at least one positioning structure includes spaced-apart detent surfaces extending upwardly from the base structure and defining a space for receiving insertion of a positioning structure co-operator of an elongated upper support member such that the detent surfaces co-operate to limit or substantially prevent lateral movement of the positioning structure co-operator. 12. The platform as claimed in claim 11 ; wherein, for at least a portion of the positioning structures, at least one of the detent surfaces of the positioning structure is provided on a lower support member mechanical fastener co- operator, wherein the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator and a corresponding upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator are co-operatively engaged to a mechanical fastener and thereby effect connection between the elongated lower support member respective to the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator and the elongated upper support member respective to the upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator. 13. The platform as claimed in claim 11 ; wherein, for each one of the positioning structures, at least one of the detent surfaces of the positioning structure is provided on a lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator, wherein the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator and a corresponding upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator are co-operatively engaged to a mechanical fastener and thereby effect connection between the elongated lower support member respective to the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator and the elongated upper support member respective to the upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator. 14. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 13; wherein, for each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members, the connection to the base structure is effected by the joinder of the elongated upper support member to a lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator extending from the base support, wherein the joinder is effected with a mechanical fastener. 15. The platform as claimed in claim 14; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members of the base support includes a plurality of lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators, and each one of elongated upper support members is joined, by a mechanical fastener, to lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators extending from successive elongated lower support members. 16. The platform as claimed in claim 14 or 15; wherein a plurality of spaced-apart elongated support members is provided between lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators for effecting support of an elongated upper support member. 17. The platform as claimed in claim 16; wherein the plurality of spaced-apart elongated support members extend from an elongated lower support member. 18. The platform as claimed in any one of claim 1 to 17; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated lower support members. 19. The platform as claimed in any of one claims 1 to 18; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, the longitudinal axis of the elongated upper support member is transverse to the longitudinal axis of each one of the elongated lower support member. 20. The platform as claimed in any of one claims 1 to 19; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, the longitudinal axis of the elongated upper support member is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of each one of the elongated lower support member. 21. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20; wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed adjacent to at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 22. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20; wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed in abutting relationship with at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 23. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20; wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 24 The platform as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 23; wherein the support surface structure defines a quadrilateral-shaped support surface. 25. The platform as claimed in claim 24; wherein the quadrilateral-shaped support surface is a rectangular-shaped support surface. 26. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 25; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members and the elongated upper support members includes plastic material. 27. The platform as claimed in claim 26; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members and the elongated upper support members is manufactured by extrusion. 28. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 27; wherein the elongated lower support members are substantially identical to one another. 29. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 28; wherein the elongated upper support members are substantially identical to one another. 30. A platform comprising: a base structure including a plurality of elongated lower support members; a support surface structure supported by the base structure, and including a plurality of elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members is connected to the base structure; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members and the elongated upper support members includes plastic material; and wherein each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members is connected to at least two elongated lower support members to which are connected at least two other elongated upper support members. 31. A kit for effecting assembly of the platform structure comprising: a plurality of elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the elongated lower support members is configured for positioning on a reaction surface relative to the other ones of the elongated lower support members so as to provide a base structure, wherein each one of the elongated lower support members includes plastic material; a plurality of elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is configured for connection to and support by the base structure, wherein each one of the elongated upper support members includes plastic material; wherein, the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least two operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is configured for connection to at least three elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is configured for connection to at least three of the same of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is configured for connection; and wherein each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members includes upper support member mechanical fastener co-operators which correspond to lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators provided on the at least three of the same elongated lower support members such that, for each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members, corresponding pairs of mechanical fastener co-operators are provided, and wherein the engagement of a corresponding pair of mechanical fastener co-operators by a mechanical fastener effects connection of the elongated upper support member to the elongated lower support member. 32. The kit as claimed in claim 31 ; wherein each one of the upper support member mechanical fastener co-operators includes a screw-receiving hole configured for receiving a mechanical screw. 33. The kit as claimed in claim 32; wherein the screw-receiving hole is a pilot hole. 34. The kit as claimed in claim 31 or 32; wherein each one of the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators includes a void space within the lower support member for receiving travel of the mechanical screw. 35. The kit as claimed in any one of claims 31 to 34; wherein the elongated lower support members are substantially identical to one another. 36. The kit as claimed in any one of claims 31 to 35; wherein the elongated upper support members are substantially identical to one another. 37. The kit as claimed in any one of claims 31 to 36; wherein each one of the lower and upper support members is extrusion molded. 38. The kit as claimed in any one of claims 31 to 37; further comprising instructions for effecting assembly of the platform structure by: (a) positioning the lower support members to provide a base structure, (b) positioning each one of the operative elongated upper support members onto the base structure so that the corresponding pairs of mechanical fastener co-operators are co-operatively positioned to engage mechanical fasteners for effecting the connection of each one of the operative elongated upper support members to the at least three of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is configured for connection, and (c) engaging mechanical fasteners with each one of the corresponding pairs of mechanical fastener co-operators. 39. A platform comprising: a base structure including a plurality of elongated lower support members; and a support surface structure, supported by the base structure, and including a plurality of elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members is connected to the base structure; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members includes at least one positioning structure, wherein the positioning structure effects alignment of an elongated upper support member relative to other elongated upper support members, such that a plurality of positioning structures is provided; and wherein alignment of each one of the elongated upper support members relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members is effected by the provided positioning structures. 40. The platform as claimed in claim 40; wherein the effected alignment is such that each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 41. The platform as claimed in claim 39 or 40; wherein, for each one of the elongated lower support members, each one of the at least one positioning structure includes spaced-apart detent surfaces extending upwardly from the base structure and defining a space for receiving insertion of a positioning structure co-operator of an elongated upper support members such that the detent surfaces co-operate to limit or substantially prevent lateral movement of the positioning structure co-operator. 42. The platform as claimed in claim 41 ; wherein, for at least a portion of the positioning structures, at least one of the detent surfaces of the positioning structure is provided on a lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator extending from an elongated lower support member, wherein the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator and a corresponding upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator of an elongated upper support member are co-operatively engaged to a mechanical fastener and thereby effect connection between the elongated lower support member respective to the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator and the elongated upper support member respective to the upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator. 43. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 42; wherein alignment of at least one of the elongated upper support members relative to the other elongated upper support members is effected by positioning structures extending from successive elongated lower support members. 44. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 42; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, alignment relative to the other elongated upper support members is effected by positioning structures extending from successive elongated lower support members. 45. The platform as claimed in claim 43 or 44, wherein the number of successive elongated lower support members is at least three (3). 46. The platform as claimed in any one of claim 39 to 45; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated lower support members. 47. The platform as claimed in any of one claims 39 to 46; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, the longitudinal axis of the elongated upper support member is transverse to the longitudinal axis of each one of the elongated lower support member. 48. The platform as claimed in any of one claims 39 to 46; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, the longitudinal axis of the elongated upper support member is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of each one of the elongated lower support member. 49. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 48; wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed adjacent to at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 50. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 48; wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed in abutting relationship with at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 51. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 48; wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 52. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 48 to 51 ; wherein the support surface structure defines a quadrilateral-shaped support surface. 53. The platform as claimed in claim 52; wherein the quadrilateral-shaped support surface is a rectangular-shaped support surface. 54. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 53; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members and the elongated upper support members includes plastic material. 55. The platform as claimed in claim 54; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members and the elongated upper support members is manufactured by extrusion. 56. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 55; wherein the elongated lower support members are substantially identical to one another. 57. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 39 to 55; wherein the elongated upper support members are substantially identical to one another. 58. A kit for effecting assembly of the platform structure comprising: a plurality of elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the elongated lower support members is configured for positioning on a reaction surface relative to the other ones of the elongated lower support members so as to provide a base structure; a plurality of elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is configured for connection to and support by the base structure; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members includes a respective at least one positioning structure which is configured to effects alignment of an elongated upper support member relative to other ones of the elongated upper support members, such that a plurality of positioning structures is provided, and wherein alignment of each one of the elongated upper support members relative to the other elongated upper support members is effected by the provided positioning structures. 59. The kit as claimed in claim 58, wherein, for each one of the elongated lower support members, each one of the at least one positioning structure includes spaced-apart detent surfaces extending upwardly from the elongated lower support member and defining a space for receiving insertion of a positioning structure co-operator of an elongated upper support members such that the detent surfaces cooperate to limit or substantially prevent lateral movement of the positioning structure co- operator. 60. The kit as claimed in claim 58 or 59, wherein, for at least a portion of the positioning structures, at least one of the detent surfaces of the positioning structure is provided on a lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator extending from an elongated lower support member, wherein the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator and a corresponding upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator of an elongated upper support member are co-operatively engaged to a mechanical fastener and thereby effect connection between the elongated lower support member respective to the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator and the elongated upper support member respective to the upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator. 61. The kit as claimed in any one of claims 58 to 60, wherein alignment of at least one of the elongated upper support members relative to the other elongated upper support members is effected by positioning structures extending from successive elongated lower support members. 62. The kit as claimed in any one of claims 58 to 61 , wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, alignment relative to the other elongated upper support members is effected by positioning structures extending from successive elongated lower support members. 63. The platform as claimed in claim 61 or 62, wherein the number of successive elongated lower support members is at least three (3). 64. The kit as claimed in any one of claims 58 to 63; further comprising instructions for effecting assembly of the platform structure by: (a) positioning the lower support members to provide a base structure, (b) for each one of the elongated upper support members, co-operatively positioning the elongated upper support members relative to those positioning structures which are configured to effect alignment of the elongated upper support member relative to the other elongated upper support members. 65. A platform comprising: a base structure including a plurality of elongated lower support members; and a support surface structure supported by the base structure, and including a plurality of elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members is connected to the base structure; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members is effected by a respective perimeter- adjacent positioning structure provided on an elongated lower support member of the base structure, wherein the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure is disposed less than twelve (12) inches from the perimeter of the base structure. 66. The platform as claimed in claim 65; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure limits lateral movement of the elongated upper support member so as to effect the alignment. 67. The platform as claimed in claim 65; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, the respective perimeter- adjacent positioning structure substantially prevents lateral movement of the elongated upper support member so as to effect the alignment. 68. The platform as claimed in claim 66 or 67; wherein the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure for each one of the elongated upper support member includes spaced-apart detent surfaces extending upwardly from the base structure and defining a space for receiving insertion of a perimeter-adjacent positioning structure co-operator of the respective one of the elongated upper support members such that the detent surfaces co-operate to limit or substantially prevent lateral movement of the perimeter- adjacent positioning structure co-operator. 69. The platform as claimed in any of one claims 65 to 68; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, the longitudinal axis of the elongated upper support member is transverse to the longitudinal axis of each one of the elongated upper support member. 70. The platform as claimed in any of one claims 65 to 68; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, the longitudinal axis of the elongated upper support member is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of each one of the elongated upper support member. 71. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 65 to 70; wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed adjacent to at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 72. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 65 to 70; wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed in abutting relationship with at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 73. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 65 to 70; wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated upper support members. 74. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 71 to 73; wherein the support surface structure defines a quadrilateral-shaped support surface. 75. The platform as claimed in claim 74; wherein the quadrilateral -shaped support surface is a rectangular-shaped support surface. 76. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 65 to 75; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, the respective perimeter- adjacent positioning structure is disposed on a perimeter-adjacent elongated lower support member; and wherein the perimeter-adjacent elongated lower support member is an elongated lower support member which defines a perimeter portion of the base structure. 77. The platform as claimed in claim 76; wherein the effected alignment is such that each one of the elongated support members is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated support members. 78. The platform as claimed in any of claim 65 to 77; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated lower support members. 79. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 65 to 78; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members and the elongated upper support members includes plastic material. 80. The platform as claimed in claim 79; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members and the elongated upper support members is manufactured by extrusion. 81. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 65 to 80; wherein the elongated lower support members are substantially identical to one another. 82. The platform as claimed in any one of claims 65 to 80; wherein the elongated upper support members are substantially identical to one another. 83. A kit for effecting assembly of the platform structure comprising: a plurality of elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the elongated lower support members is configured for positioning on a reaction surface relative to the other ones of the elongated lower support members so as to provide a base structure; a plurality of elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the elongated upper support member is configured for connection to and support by the base structure; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members is effected by a respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure provided on an elongated lower support member of the base structure, wherein the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure is disposed less than twelve (12) inches from the perimeter of the base structure; 84. The kit as claimed in claim 83; further comprising instructions for effecting assembly of the platform structure by: (a) positioning the lower support members to provide a base structure, (b) and co-operatively positioning each one of the elongated upper support members relative to the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure so as to effect support of elongated upper support members by the base structure and so as to effect alignment of each one of the elongated lower support members relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members. 85. A method of manufacturing components for assembly into a platform, wherein the platform includes a base structure including a plurality of elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the elongated lower support members includes plastic material, and a support surface structure supported by the base structure and including a plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions, wherein each one of the plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions is connected to the base structure, and wherein each one of the plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions is defined by one elongated upper support member or two elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the elongated upper support members includes plastic material, such that, when the elongated support surface-defining plank construction is defined by one elongated upper support member, the elongated upper support member is of a sufficient length to engage a positioning structure provided on an elongated lower support member of the base structure and thereby effect its alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated support surface-defining plank constructions, and when the elongated support surface-defining plank constructions is defined by two elongated upper support members, each one of the two elongated upper support members is of sufficient length to engage a respective positioning structure provided on an elongated lower support member and thereby effect its alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated support surface-defining plank constructions, wherein the method of manufacturing comprises: extruding a plurality of elongated lower support members, wherein at least a portion of the elongated lower support members includes at least one positioning structure; providing a plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions, wherein each one of the plank constructions is defined by either of (a) one extruded elongated upper support member, or (b) two extruded elongated upper support members; such that, when the elongated lower support members are arranged to provide a base support, each one of the elongated upper support members is extruded to a sufficient length so as to engage a respective positioning structure provided on an elongated lower support member of the base structure and thereby effects its alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated support surface-defining planks being supported on the base support. 86. The method as claimed in claim 85; wherein the length of each one of the elongated upper support members is less than eight (8) feet. 87. The method as claimed in claim 85 or 86; wherein, when the plank construction is defined by two extruded elongated support members, the length of a one of the two extruded elongated support members is longer than the length of the other one of the two extruded elongated support members. |
FIELD OF THE APPLICATION
[0001] The present invention relates to platforms made of plastic materials.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Presently available plastic platforms or deck constructions are difficult to assemble.
SUMMARY
[0003] In one aspect, there is provided a base structure including a plurality of elongated lower support members; and a support surface structure supported by the base structure, and including a plurality of elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members is connected to the base structure; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members and the elongated upper support members includes plastic material; and wherein the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least two operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least three elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected to at least three of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is connected.
[0004] In one aspect, there is provided a base structure including a plurality of elongated lower support members; and a support surface structure, supported by the base structure, and including a plurality of elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members is connected to the base structure; wherein each one of the elongated lower support members includes at least one positioning structure, wherein the positioning structure effects alignment of an elongated upper support member relative to other elongated upper support members, such that a plurality of positioning structures is provided; and wherein alignment of each one of the elongated upper support members relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members is effected by the provided positioning structures. [0005] In one aspect, there is provided a base structure including a plurality of elongated lower support members; and a support surface structure supported by the base structure, and including a plurality of elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members is connected to the base structure; wherein, for each one of the elongated upper support members, alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members is effected by a respective perimeter- adjacent positioning structure provided on an elongated lower support member of the base structure, wherein the respective perimeter- adjacent positioning structure is disposed less than twelve (12) inches from the perimeter of the base structure.
[0006] In one aspect, there is provided a method of manufacturing components for assembly into a platform, wherein the platform includes a base structure including a plurality of elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the elongated lower support members includes plastic material, and a support surface structure supported by the base structure and including a plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions, wherein each one of the plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions is connected to the base structure, and wherein each one of the plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions is defined by one elongated upper support member or two elongated upper support members, wherein each one of the elongated upper support members includes plastic material, such that, when the elongated support surface-defining plank construction is defined by one elongated upper support member, the elongated upper support member is of a sufficient length to engage a positioning structure provided on an elongated lower support member of the base structure and thereby effect its alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated support surface-defining plank constructions, and when the elongated support surface-defining plank constructions is defined by two elongated upper support members, each one of the two elongated upper support members is of sufficient length to engage a respective positioning structure provided on an elongated lower support member and thereby effect its alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated support surface-defining plank constructions, wherein the method of manufacturing comprises: extruding a plurality of elongated lower support members, wherein at least a portion of the elongated lower support members includes at least one positioning structure; providing a plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions, wherein each one of the plank constructions is defined by either of (a) one extruded elongated upper support member, or (b) two extruded elongated upper support members; such that, when the elongated lower support members are arranged to provide a base support, each one of the elongated upper support members is extruded to a sufficient length so as to engage a respective positioning structure provided on an elongated lower support member of the base structure and thereby effects its alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated support surface-defining planks being supported on the base support.
[0007] In another aspect, there are provided kits for assembling each of the above- described platforms.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] Figure 1 is a top perspective view of a platform;
[0009] Figure 2 is a top perspective view of the platform of Figure 1, partly cut-away;
[0010] Figure 3 is a top plan view of an elongated lower support member of the platform of Figures 1 and 2;
[0011] Figure 4 is a side elevation view of one side of the elongated lower support member of Figure 3;
[0012] Figure 5 is a top perspective view of the elongated lower support member of
Figure 4;
[0013] Figure 6 is a sectional side elevation view of the elongated lower support member of Figure 4;
[0014] Figure 7 is a top perspective view of the longer embodiment of an elongated upper support member of the platform of Figures 1 and 2;
[0015] Figure 8 is a top plan view of the longer embodiment of the upper support member of Figure 7; [0016] Figure 8A is a sectional elevation view taken along lines A-A in Figure 8;
[0017] Figure 9 is Detail "B" of Figure 8A;
[0018] Figure 10 is a sectional elevation view of the longer embodiment of the upper support member of Figure 7;
[0019] Figure 1 1 is a top perspective view of the shorter embodiment of the upper support member of the platform of Figures 1 and 2;
[0020] Figure 12 is a top plan view of the shorter embodiment of the upper support member of Figure 11 ;
[0021] Figure 13 is a sectional elevation view taken along lines A-A in Figure 12;
[0022] Figure 14 is Detail "B" of Figure 13; and
[0023] Figure 15 is a fragmentary, partly cut-away view of the platform of Figure 1.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] There is provided a platform 10 including a base structure 12 and a support surface structure 13. The base structure 12 includes a plurality of elongated lower support members 14 16. The support surface structure 13 is supported by the base structure 12, and includes a plurality of elongated upper support members 16. Each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members 16 is connected to the base structure 12. For example, the platform could be used as a shed base or as part of a deck construction.
[0025] In some embodiments, for example, the elongated upper support members 16 are connected to the elongated lower support members 14 with mechanical fasteners 18, such as screws. For example, each one of the elongated upper support members 16 includes a plurality of upper support member mechanical fastener co-operators 20. For example, where the mechanical fastener 18 is a mechanical screw, the upper support member mechanical fastener co- operators 20 are screw holes. In some embodiments, the screw holes are pilot holes, which are engaged by the mechanical screw when the mechanical screw is being tightened within the pilot hole. In other embodiments, the screw holes are clearance holes. The elongated lower support members 14 include lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators 22. The lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators 22 include void spaces 24 for screw retention. Providing the void spaces 24 facilitates the fastening operation by eliminating the amount of material which must be penetrated to effect securing of the elongated upper support member to the elongated lower support member.
[0026] In other embodiments, the support members 16 are connected to support members
14 by ultrasonic welding or by chemical bonding.
[0027] In some embodiments, the connections of the elongated upper support member 16 to two successive elongated lower support members 14 are offset, thereby increasing the strength of the connection of the elongated upper support member 16 to the two successive elongated lower support members 14.
[0028] Each one of the lower and upper support members 14, 16 includes plastic material. For example, suitable plastic material is at least one of polyethylene and polypropylene. As a further example, the plastic material is disposed as part of a composite material which combines plastic material and organic wastes, such as rice hulls.
[0029] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the elongated lower support members 14 and the elongated upper support members 16 is manufactured by extrusion or molding.
[0030] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the elongated lower support members 14 is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated lower support members 14.
[0031] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the elongated upper support members 16 is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the upper lower support members 16.
[0032] In the context of this patent specification, including the claims, "contiguous" means touching along, or adjacent to, all or most of one side. [0033] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the elongated upper support members 16 is disposed adjacent to at least another one of the elongated upper support members 16.
[0034] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the elongated upper support members 16 is disposed in abutting relationship with at least another one of the elongated upper support members 16.
[0035] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the elongated upper support members 16, the longitudinal axis 26 of the elongated upper support member 16 is transverse to the longitudinal axis 28 of each one of the elongated upper support member.
[0036] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the elongated upper support members 16, the longitudinal axis 26 of the elongated upper support member is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 28 of each one of the elongated lower support member 14.
[0037] In some embodiments, for example, the support surface structure 13 defines a quadrilateral-shaped support surface. For example, the quadrilateral-shaped support surface is a rectangular-shaped support surface.
[0038] In some embodiments, the elongated lower support members 14 are substantially identical to one another.
[0039] In some embodiments, the elongated upper support members 16 are substantially identical to one another.
[0040] In other embodiments, the elongated upper support members 16 include two sets
16A, 16B of identical elongated upper support members 16. For example, one set 16A of substantially identical elongated upper support members 16 is longer than the second set 16B of substantially identical elongated upper support members 16. For example, in some embodiments, there is provided a kit for assembling any of the described embodiments of the platform 10, and the kit includes a plurality of elongated lower support members 14 and a plurality of elongated upper support members 16. (A) NUMBER OF CONNECTIONS OF ELONGATED UPPER SUPPORT
MEMBERS TO ELONGATED LOWER SUPPORT MEMBERS
[0041] One feature which is provided relates to the number of connections of the elongated upper support members 16 to the elongated lower support members 14.
[0042] In this respect, in one aspect, the plurality of elongated upper support members 16 includes at least two operative elongated upper support members 16C and each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members 16C is connected to at least three elongated lower support members 14. Each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members 16C is connected to at least three of the same elongated lower support members 14 to which each one of the other ones of the at least two operative elongated upper support members 16C is connected.
[0043] In some embodiments, for example, the at least two operative elongated upper support members 16C includes four, five, six, or more elongated upper support members 16. In this respect, the at least two operative elongated upper support members 16C is at least three operative elongated upper support members 16, or is at least four operative elongated upper support members 16, or is at least five operative elongated upper support members 16, or is at least six operative elongated upper support members 16. As well, in some embodiments, for example, such examples of the at least two operative elongated upper support members 16 is connected to any number over three (3) of the same elongated lower support members 14, such as four, five, six, or more of the same elongated lower support members 14. In this respect, the at least three of the same elongated lower support members 14 is at least four of the same elongated lower support members 14, or is at least five of the same elongated lower support members 14, or is at least six of the same elongated lower support members 14. For example, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, there is provided ten operative elongated upper support members 16A which are connected to the same eight elongated lower support members 14.
[0044] In another aspect, each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members
16 is connected to at least two elongated lower support members 14 to which are connected at least two other elongated upper support members 16. In some embodiments, the at least two other elongated upper support members is three, four, five, six or more elongated upper support members. In this respect, in some embodiments, the at least two other elongated upper support members is at least three other elongated upper support members, or at least four other elongated upper support members, or at least five other elongated upper support members. In some embodiments, the at least two elongated lower support members 14 is three, four, five, six or more elongated lower support members 14. In this respect, the at least two elongated lower support members 14 is at least three elongated lower support members 14, or at least four elongated lower support members 14, or at least five elongated lower support members 14, or at least six elongated lower support members 14.
[0045] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members 16, the connection to the base structure 12 is effected by the joinder of the elongated upper support member 16 to a lower support member mechanical fastener co- operator 22 extending from the base support, wherein the joinder is effected with a mechanical fastener.
[0046] In some embodiments, for example, each one of the elongated lower support members 14 of the base structure 12 includes a plurality of lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators 22, and each one of elongated upper support members 16 is joined, by a mechanical fastener 18, to lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators 22 extending from successive elongated lower support members 14A, 14B.
[0047] In some embodiments, for example, a plurality of spaced-apart elongated support members 32 is provided between lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators 22 for effecting support of an elongated upper support member 16. In some of these embodiments, for example, the plurality of spaced-apart elongated support members 32 extend from an elongated lower support member 14.
[0048] In some aspects, for example, the above-described features strengthen the provided platform 10 as multiple upper support members 16 are connected to the same lower support members 14, thereby reducing the stress experienced at any one joint.
[0049] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for assembly of any of the above- described embodiments of the platform 10 in (A). The kit includes a plurality of elongated lower support members 14. Each one of the elongated lower support members is configured for positioning on a reaction surface relative to the other ones of the elongated lower support members so as to provide a base structure 12. The kit also includes a plurality of elongated upper support members 16. Each one of the elongated upper support members is configured for connection to and support by the base structure 12.
[0050] In one aspect of the kit, the plurality of elongated upper support members includes at least two operative elongated upper support members and each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is configured for connection to at least three elongated lower support members, wherein each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is configured for connection to at least three of the same of the same elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the at least two operative elongated upper support members is configured for connection. Each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members includes upper support member mechanical fastener co-operators which correspond to lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators provided on the at least three of the same elongated lower support members such that, for each one of the at least two operative elongated upper support members, corresponding pairs of mechanical fastener co-operators are provided, and wherein the engagement of a corresponding pair of mechanical fastener co-operators by a mechanical fastener effects connection of the elongated upper support member to the elongated lower support member.
[0051] In another aspect of the kit, each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members is configured for connection to at least two elongated lower support members to which are at least two other elongated upper support members are also configured for connection. In this respect, each one of the at least three elongated upper support members which are configured for connection to the same at least two elongated lower support members includes upper support member mechanical fastener co-operators which correspond to lower support member mechanical fastener co-operators provided on the same at least two elongated lower support members such that, for each one of the at least three elongated upper support members, corresponding pairs of mechanical fastener co-operators are provided, and wherein the engagement of a corresponding pair of mechanical fastener co-operators by a mechanical fastener effects connection of the elongated upper support member to the elongated lower support member.
[0052] In some embodiments, the kit includes instructions for effecting assembly of the platform 10 structure by: (a) positioning the lower support members to provide a base structure 12, (b) positioning each one of the operative elongated upper support members onto the base structure 12 so that the corresponding pairs of mechanical fastener co-operators are cooperatively positioned to engage mechanical fasteners for effecting the connection of each one of the elongated upper support members to the elongated lower support members to which each one of the other ones of the elongated upper support members is configured for connection, and (c) engaging mechanical fasteners with each one of the corresponding pairs of mechanical fastener co-operators.
(B) POSITIONING OF ELONGATED UPPER SUPPORT MEMBERS RELATIVE
TO ELONGAGED LOWER SUPPORT MEMBERS
[0053] Another aspect is provided relating to the platform 10 and the positioning of the elongated upper support members relative to the elongated lower support members.
[0054] In this respect, there is provided a platform 10 including a base structure 12 and a support structure 13. The base structure 12 includes a plurality of elongated lower support members 14. The support surface structure 13 is supported by the base structure 12. The support structure 13 includes a plurality of elongated upper support members 16. Each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members 16 is connected to the base structure 12. Each one of the elongated lower support members 14 includes at least one positioning structure 34, wherein the positioning structure 34 effects alignment of an elongated upper support member 16 relative to other elongated upper support members 16, such that a plurality of positioning structures is provided. Alignment of each one of the elongated upper support members 16 relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members 16 is effected by the provided positioning structures 34. [0055] In some embodiments, for example, the effected alignment is such that each one of the elongated upper support members 16 is disposed in a contiguous relationship with at least another one of the elongated upper support members 16.
[0056] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the elongated lower support members 14, each one of the at least one positioning structure 34 includes spaced-apart detent surfaces extending upwardly from the base structure 12 and defining a space 40 or spaces 40 for receiving insertion of a positioning structure co-operator 42 of an elongated upper support member 16 such that the detent surfaces 36, 38 co-operate to limit or substantially prevent lateral movement of the positioning structure co-operator 42. For example, referring to Figures 2 and 15, in some embodiments, the positioning structure co-operator 42 includes two spaced-apart structures 42A, 42B which are received within separate spaces 40. Also, in the illustrated embodiment, one of the spaces 40 receiving a separate positioning structure of two members 16 (ie. structure 42A of one member 16, and structure 42B of another member 16).
[0057] In some of these embodiments, for example, for at least a portion of the positioning structures 34, at least one of the detent surfaces 36, 38 of the positioning structure 34 is provided on a lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator 22 extending from an elongated lower support member 14. The lower support member mechanical fastener co- operator 22 and a corresponding upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator 20 of an elongated upper support member 18 are co-operatively engaged to a mechanical fastener. This thereby effects connection between the elongated lower support member 14 respective to the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator 22 and the elongated upper support member 16 respective to the upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator 20.
[0058] In some embodiments, for example, alignment of at least one of the elongated upper support members 16 relative to the other elongated upper support members 16 is effected by positioning structures 34 extending from successive elongated lower support members 14C, 14D.
[0059] In some embodiments, for example, the positioning structures extending from successive elongated lower support members 14C, 14D define a receiving channel 44 for receiving a positioning structure co-operator 42 of an elongated upper support member 16. [0060] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the elongated upper support members 16, alignment relative to the other elongated upper support members 16 is effected by positioning structures 34 extending from successive elongated lower support members 14C, 14D.
[0061] In some embodiments, for example, the number of successive elongated lower support members 14C, 14D is at least three (3).
[0062] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for assembly of any of the above- described embodiments of the platform 10 in (B). The kit includes a plurality of elongated lower support members 14. Each one of the elongated lower support members 14 is configured for positioning on a reaction surface relative to the other ones of the elongated lower support members so as to provide a base structure 12. The kit also includes a plurality of elongated upper support members 16, wherein each one of the elongated upper support members is configured for connection to and support by the base structure 12. Each one of the elongated lower support members 14 includes a respective at least one positioning structure 23 which is configured to effects alignment of an elongated upper support member 16 relative to other ones of the elongated upper support members 16, such that a plurality of positioning structures 34 is provided, and wherein alignment of each one of the elongated upper support members 16 relative to the other elongated upper support members 16 is effected by the provided positioning structures 34.
[0063] In some embodiments of the kit, for each one of the elongated lower support members 14, each one of the at least one positioning structure 34 includes spaced-apart detent surfaces 36, 38 extending upwardly from the elongated lower support member 14 and defining a space 40 or spaces for receiving insertion of a positioning structure co-operator 42 of an elongated upper support member 16 such that the detent surfaces 36, 38 co-operate to limit or substantially prevent lateral movement of the positioning structure co-operator 42.
[0064] In some embodiments of the kit, for at least a portion of the positioning structures
34, at least one of the detent surfaces 36, 38 of the positioning structure is provided on a lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator 22 extending from an elongated lower support member 14, wherein the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator 22 and a corresponding upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator 20 of an elongated upper support member 16 are co-operatively engaged to a mechanical fastener 18 and thereby effect connection between the elongated lower support member 14 respective to the lower support member mechanical fastener co-operator 22 and the elongated upper support member 16 respective to the upper support member mechanical fastener co-operator 20.
[0065] In some embodiments of the kit, alignment of at least one of the elongated upper support members 16 relative to the other elongated upper support members 16 is effected by positioning structures 34 extending from successive elongated lower support members 14C, 14D.
[0066] In some embodiments of the kit, for each one of the elongated upper support members 16, alignment relative to the other elongated upper support members 16 is effected by positioning structures extending from successive elongated lower support members 14C, 14D.
[0067] In some embodiments of the kit, the number of successive elongated lower support members 14C, 14D is at least three (3).
[0068] In some embodiments of the kit, the kit further comprising instructions for effecting assembly of the platform structure by: (a) positioning the lower support members to provide a base structure 12, (b) for each one of the elongated upper support members, cooperatively positioning the elongated upper support members relative to those positioning structures which are configured to effect alignment of the elongated upper support member relative to the other elongated upper support members.
(C) ALIGNMENT OF THE ELONGATED UPPER SUPPORT MEMBERS
[0069] Another aspect is provided relating to the alignment of the elongated upper support members.
[0070] In this aspect, there is provided a platform 10 including a base structure 12 and a support structure. The base structure 12 includes a plurality of elongated lower support members. The support surface structure 13 is supported by the base structure 12. The support surface structure 13 includes a plurality of elongated upper support members 16. Each one of the plurality of elongated upper support members 16 is connected to the base structure 12. For each one of the elongated upper support members 16, alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members 16 is effected by a respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure 50 provided on an elongated lower support member 14 of the base structure 12, wherein the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure 50 is disposed less than twelve (12) inches from the perimeter of the base structure 12.
[0071] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the elongated upper support members 16, the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure 50 limits lateral movement of the elongated upper support member 16 so as to effect the alignment.
[0072] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the elongated upper support members 16, the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure 50 substantially prevents lateral movement of the elongated upper support member 16 so as to effect the alignment.
[0073] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the elongated upper support member , the respective perimeter- adjacent positioning structure 50 includes spaced-apart detent surfaces 36, 38 extending upwardly from the base structure 12 and defining a space or spaces for receiving insertion 40 of a perimeter-adjacent positioning structure co-operator 42 of the respective one of the elongated upper support members 16. The detent surfaces 36, 38 cooperate to limit or substantially prevent lateral movement of the perimeter-adjacent positioning structure co-operator 42. For example, referring to Figures 2 and 15, in some embodiments, the positioning structure co-operator 42 includes two spaced-apart structures 42A, 42B which are received within separate spaces 40. Also, in the illustrated embodiment, one of the spaces 40 receiving a separate positioning structure of two members 16 (ie. structure 42A of one member 16, and structure 42B of another member 16).
[0074] In some embodiments, for example, for each one of the elongated upper support members 16, the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure 50 is disposed on a perimeter-adjacent elongated lower support member 14E. The perimeter-adjacent elongated lower support member 14E is an elongated lower support member 14 which defines a perimeter portion of the base structure 12.
[0075] In another aspect, there is provided a kit for effecting assembly of the described embodiments of the platform 10 in (C). In this respect, the kit includes a plurality of elongated lower support members 14 and a plurality of elongated upper support members 16. Each one of the elongated lower support members 14 is configured for positioning on a reaction surface relative to the other elongated lower support members 14 so as to provide a base structure 12. Each one of the elongated upper support members 16 is configured for connection to and support by the base structure 12. For each one of the elongated upper support members 16, alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members 16 is effected by a respective perimeter- adjacent positioning structure 50 provided on an elongated lower support member of the base structure 12, wherein the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure is disposed less than twelve (12) inches from the perimeter of the base structure 12.
[0076] In some embodiments, for example, the kit further includes instructions for effecting assembly of the platform 10 structure by: (a) positioning the lower support members to provide a base structure 12, (b) and co-operatively positioning each one of the elongated upper support members relative to the respective perimeter-adjacent positioning structure so as to effect support of elongated upper support members by the base structure 12 and so as to effect alignment of each one of the elongated lower support members relative to the other ones of the elongated upper support members.
(D) METHOD OF MANUFACTURING
[0077] Another aspect is provided relating to the method of manufacturing any of the above-described embodiments of the platform 10.
[0078] In this respect, there is provided a method of manufacturing components for assembly into a platform 10. The platform 10 includes a base structure 12 and a support surface structure 13. The base structure 12 includes a plurality of elongated lower support members. The support surface structure 13 is supported by the base structure 12 and includes a plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions 52. Each one of the plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions 52 is connected to the base structure 12, and each one of the plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions 52 is defined by one elongated upper support member 16 or two elongated upper support members 16. When the elongated support surface-defining plank construction 52 is defined by one elongated upper support member 16, the elongated upper support member 16 is of a sufficient length to engage a positioning structure 34 provided on an elongated lower support member 14 of the base structure 12 and thereby effect its alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated support surface- defining plank constructions 52. When the elongated support surface-defining plank constructions 52 is defined by two elongated upper support members 16, each one of the two elongated upper support members 16 is of sufficient length to engage a respective positioning structure 34 provided on an elongated lower support member 14 and thereby effect its alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated support surface-defining plank constructions 52.
[0079] The method of manufacturing includes:
(a) extruding a plurality of elongated lower support members 14, wherein at least a portion of the elongated lower support members includes at least one positioning structure 34;
(b) providing a plurality of elongated support surface-defining plank constructions 52, wherein each one of the plank constructions is defined by either of (a) one extruded elongated upper support member 16, or (b) two extruded elongated upper support members 16; such that, when the elongated lower support members 14 are arranged to provide a base structure 12, each one of the elongated upper support members 16 is extruded and cut to size to a sufficient length so as to engage a respective positioning structure 34 provided on an elongated lower support member 14 of the base structure 12 and thereby effects its alignment relative to the other ones of the elongated support surface-defining plank constructions 52 being supported on the base support structure 12.
[0080] In some embodiments, for example, the length of each one of the elongated upper support members 16 is less than eight (8) feet.
[0081] In some embodiments, for example, the plank construction 52 is defined by two extruded elongated support members, wherein the length of a one of the two extruded elongated support members 16 is longer than the length of the other one of the two extruded elongated support members. [0082] In the above description, for purposes of explanation, numerous details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present disclosure. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that these specific details are not required in order to practice the present disclosure. Although certain dimensions and materials are described for implementing the disclosed example embodiments, other suitable dimensions and/or materials may be used within the scope of this disclosure. All such modifications and variations, including all suitable current and future changes in technology, are believed to be within the sphere and scope of the present disclosure. All references mentioned are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
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