Removable stairway for an elevated platform and method

Abstract

A removable stairway device configured for attachment to a platform includes a removable step attachable to the platform and extendable from the platform in cantilever fashion. A gap is formed between the step and the elevated deck of the platform when the removable step is attached to the platform. A lock plate is pivotally coupled to the step. The lock plate pivots to cover the gap between the step and the elevated deck. A flange extends from the lock plate and engages a side of the platform to lock the step to the platform when the step is attached to the platform and the lock plate is pivoted to cover the gap.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This patent application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 098,922 filed Apr. 7, 2008; Ser. No. 12 / 098,945 filed Apr. 7, 2008; and Ser. No. 12 / 098,955 filed April 7, 2008 which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates generally to portable elevated platforms such as portable stages, risers, and the like.[0004]2. Related Art[0005]Portable platforms are often used as stages, risers, and the like. Such platforms are often formed of individual modules that are assembled at the site the platform is needed. The height of the platforms is often adjustable so that the platform can be positioned at a desired height. Sometimes the desired height is too high for a person to step up onto the platform. In these cases, steps or a stairs are is needed in order to gain access to the platform.[0006]Some portable platform systems use sta...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009]The inventors of the present invention have recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a removable stairway for an elevated platform that can be easily secured to the platform. Additionally, the inventors of the present invention have recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a removable stairway for an elevated platform that can be attached to the platform without the use of separate fasteners. Additionally, the inventors of the present invention have recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a removable stairway for an elevated platform that can resist separate movement with respect to the platform when dynamically loaded as a user walks on the steps. Additionally, the inventors of the present invention have recognized that it would be advantageous to develop a stairway for an elevated platform that is adjustable in height in order to match the height of the elevated platform and that each step in the step system can automatically adjust in height to a similar height as the other steps in the stairway.

[0011]The present invention also provides a method for coupling a removable stairway to a platform including coupling a removable step to an elevated deck of the platform such that the step extends away from the deck in cantilever fashion. A lock plate can be pivotally coupled to the step to lock a gap between the step and the elevated deck such that a flange extending from the lock plate frictionally engages a side of the platform to safely lock the stairs in place when the step is attached to the platform and the lock plate is pivoted to cover the gap.

Problems solved by technology

Unfortunately, because these stair systems are supported independently from the platform they can move slightly with respect to the platform when people are climbing the stairs to enter or leave the platform.

This independent movement can cause noise which may disrupt an event, as well as an uneasy feeling to people on the platform and / or the stairs.

Unfortunately, such stairways are often difficult to attach requiring fasteners such as screws, bolts or the like, which tend to slow down assembly of the portable platform.

Additionally, many of these attachable stairways have a tendency to move in relation to the platform as users walk up the stairs to gain access to the platform.

This movement can cause undesirable racking noise and give unsteady feelings to the users.

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