Collapsible support system

Abstract

A collapsible support system may include a first rigid support member, a second rigid support member parallel to the first rigid support member, and a locking mechanism configured to allow the first rigid support member to move relative to the second rigid support member between a first position and a second position. The first rigid support member may be spaced further from the second rigid support member in the second position than in the first position. The locking mechanism may be configured to selectively lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in any of a plurality of positions.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202321056657 filed on August 24, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to support structures, and more particularly to support structures for data centers. Background Art

[0004] Data centers often have different site conditions. Therefore, different sites may require different installation heights. This may require stocking a variety of different brackets or other support structures, such as trusses. Trusses used in data centers, for example, may be bulky and may require a lot of storage and transportation space. For this reason, such trusses are often disassembled for storage and / or transportation. However, once on site, this only increases the labor required for installation, as the trusses then need to be assembled during installation. Summary of the invention

[0005] Applicants have created new and useful devices, systems, and methods for retractable support systems. Retractable support systems according to the present disclosure can be stored and / or transported in a fully retracted position or configuration, which can save space and improve efficiency during storage and transportation. Once on site, the system can be selectively expanded into any desired position in a fully retracted position and a fully extended position or in a number of available positions between the fully retracted position and the fully extended position. In this way, a single system can be used in a variety of situations and can be adapted to a variety of field conditions or requirements and / or variable field conditions or requirements, thereby simplifying logistics, design, and engineering considerations.

[0006] In at least one embodiment, a support system according to the present disclosure, such as a retractable support system or an adjustable support system, may include: a plurality of rigid support members, a plurality of telescopic support members, and one or more locking mechanisms for selectively fixing the system in one or more positions or configurations, such as multiple dimensions. In at least one embodiment, the retractable support system may include a first rigid support member, a second rigid support member that may be parallel to the first rigid support member, and a locking mechanism. In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member may be a first beam and / or the second rigid support member may be a second beam. In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member may be a first truss and / or the second rigid support member may be a second truss.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism can be configured to allow the first rigid support member to move between a first position and a second position relative to the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member can be spaced farther from the second rigid support member in the second position than in the first position. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism can also be configured to lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism can lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in one or more other positions, such as one or more positions between the first position and the second position. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism can lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in any position between the first position and the second position.

[0008] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may include a first locking telescopic member and a second locking telescopic member. In at least one embodiment, in the second position, the first locking telescopic member may be orthogonal to the second locking telescopic member.

[0009] In at least one embodiment, the first locking telescopic member may include a first concentric lock. In at least one embodiment, the second locking telescopic member may include a second concentric lock. In at least one embodiment, any one of the concentric locks or both concentric locks may include an outer housing fixedly mounted to the inner section of the corresponding locking telescopic member and an inner pin slidably mounted in the outer housing. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin may be biased toward an extended position, in which the inner pin extends from the outer housing and engages a hole in the outer section of the corresponding locking telescopic member, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member and preventing it from further telescoping. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin may be pushed into the outer housing and rotated relative to the outer housing, thereby locking the inner pin in the outer housing and allowing the corresponding locking telescopic member to telescope freely. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin may receive a bolt passing therethrough.

[0010] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may include a first locking telescopic member and a second locking telescopic member adjacent to the first ends of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may include a third locking telescopic member and a fourth locking telescopic member adjacent to the second ends of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, in the second position, the first locking telescopic member may be orthogonal to the second locking telescopic member and / or the third locking telescopic member may be orthogonal to the fourth locking telescopic member.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, any or each of the locking telescopic members may include a concentric lock. In at least one embodiment, each concentric lock may include an outer housing fixedly mounted to the inner section of the corresponding locking telescopic member and an inner pin slidably mounted in the outer housing. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin may be biased toward an extended position, in which the inner pin extends from the outer housing and engages the hole in the outer section of the corresponding locking telescopic member, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member and preventing it from further telescoping. In at least one embodiment, each inner pin may be pushed into the corresponding outer housing and rotated relative to the corresponding outer housing, thereby locking the inner pin in the corresponding outer housing and allowing the corresponding locking telescopic member to telescope freely.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, the internal pin of the first locking telescopic member and the internal pin of the second locking telescopic member can receive a first bolt passing therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position and / or rigidly fixing the first locking telescopic member relative to the second locking telescopic member. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes multiple pairs of crossed locking telescopic members. In at least one embodiment, when the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member are in the second position, each pair of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members can receive a bolt passing therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position and / or rigidly fixing each pair of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members.

[0013] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may include an adjustment system, such as one or more screw jacks, one or more scissor jacks, one or more hydraulic jacks, one or more rack and pinion mechanisms, one or more other jacks or adjustment mechanisms, or any combination thereof, configured to adjust the distance between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member and / or the distance between one or more pairs of intersecting locking telescopic members. In at least one embodiment, when the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member are in the second position, each pair of intersecting locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members can receive a bolt therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position and / or rigidly fixing each pair of intersecting locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members.

[0014] In at least one embodiment, each locking telescopic member may include a concentric lock. In at least one embodiment, each concentric lock may include an outer housing fixedly mounted to the inner section of the corresponding locking telescopic member and an inner pin slidably mounted in the outer housing. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin may be biased toward an extended position in which the inner pin extends from the outer housing and engages a hole in the outer section of the corresponding locking telescopic member, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member and preventing it from further telescoping. In at least one embodiment, each inner pin may be pushed into the corresponding outer housing and rotated relative to the corresponding outer housing, thereby locking the inner pin in the corresponding outer housing and allowing the corresponding locking telescopic member to telescope freely.

[0015] In at least one embodiment, the first pair of crossed locking telescopic members may include a first locking telescopic member and a second locking telescopic member. In at least one embodiment, the internal pin of the first locking telescopic member and the internal pin of the second locking telescopic member can be aligned and / or receive a first bolt passing therethrough, such as when the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member are in the second position, the internal pin of the first locking telescopic member and the internal pin of the second locking telescopic member can be aligned and / or receive the first bolt passing therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position and / or rigidly fixing the first locking telescopic member relative to the second locking telescopic member.

[0016] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism can be configured to lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in a first position and / or multiple positions. For example, in at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism can be configured to lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in a third position, and the first rigid support member can be spaced farther from the second rigid support member in the third position than in the second position.

[0017] In at least one embodiment, the system may include a first pair of locking telescopic members connected to the first ends of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member, and a second pair of locking telescopic members connected to the second ends of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, each of the locking telescopic members can be configured to selectively lock at a plurality of different lengths, thereby selectively limiting the maximum distance between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, each of the locking telescopic members can be configured to selectively lock at a plurality of different lengths, thereby allowing the user to select from a plurality of different system size arrangements, such as height and width. In at least one embodiment, each of the locking telescopic members can include an end fixedly attached to the first rigid support member and another end fixedly attached to the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, each of the locking telescopic members can include an end rotatably attached to the first rigid support member and another end rotatably attached to the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, such as at a position between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member, the first pair of locking telescopic members can be rotatably connected to each other, and the second pair of locking telescopic members can be rotatably connected to each other. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism and the first pair of locking telescopic members and the second pair of locking telescopic members can be jointly configured to be able to selectively adjust and lock the system in multiple different size combinations, and the multiple different size combinations can include height, width and / or length. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism that can include one or more pairs of locking telescopic members or any part thereof can be jointly configured to be able to selectively adjust and lock the system in any different size combination among multiple different size combinations that can include height, width and / or length. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism and / or the paired locking telescopic members can be jointly configured to be able to selectively adjust and lock the system in any different configuration among multiple different configurations with different distances between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member.

[0018] In at least one embodiment, the system may include an adjustment system having one or more cross members for supporting the positioning of the first and second rigid support members, such as a first pair of cross members coupled to the first and second rigid support members and a second pair of cross members coupled to the first and second rigid support members. In at least one embodiment, each cross member may have an end rotatably coupled to a fixed support on one of the first and second rigid support members and another end rotatably and / or slidably coupled to one of the first and second rigid support members. In at least one embodiment, movement of the cross members may cause or result in corresponding movement of one or more other system components, such as the first and second rigid support members and the locking telescopic member.

[0019] In at least one embodiment, the adjustment system may include one or more sliding supports, which are slidably connected to a corresponding one of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, one end of each cross member can be rotatably connected to the sliding support, and each sliding support can be slidably connected to one or more corresponding guide members, which are connected to one of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, one end of each of the cross members can be slidably connected to one of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, such as at a position between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member, the first pair of cross members can be rotatably connected to each other, and the second pair of cross members can be rotatably connected to each other.

[0020] In at least one embodiment, the system may include a first pair of sliding supports slidably coupled to the first rigid support member and a second pair of sliding supports slidably coupled to the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, the end of each of the cross members may be rotatably coupled to a corresponding one of the sliding supports. In at least one embodiment, the system may include a first pair of guide members coupled to the first rigid support member and a second pair of guide members coupled to the second rigid support member. The corresponding one of the first pair of sliding supports may be slidably coupled to the corresponding one of the first pair of guide members, and the corresponding one of the second pair of sliding supports may be slidably coupled to the corresponding one of the second pair of guide members.

[0021] In at least one embodiment, the system may include an actuator member that is coupled to a pair of sliding supports and configured to be driven in unison with the sliding supports relative to a pair of guide members. In at least one embodiment, the actuator driver may be configured to selectively move the actuator member for causing a change in the position of at least one of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, the actuator driver may be a feed screw, and the feed screw may be rotatably coupled to one or more of the rigid support members and may be threadedly coupled to the actuator member. In at least one embodiment, the system may include an actuator that is coupled to the actuator driver and configured to selectively move the actuator driver for causing a change in the position of the actuator member. In at least one embodiment, the actuator may be a motor or may include a motor. In at least one embodiment, the actuator may be removably coupled to one or more other system components. In at least one embodiment, the actuator may be manually driven (e.g., a crank, a wrench, etc.). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure 1 is a front view of one of many embodiments of a truss according to the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 2 is shown in a retracted position according to the present disclosure Figure 1 Front view of the truss.

[0024] Figure 3 is a perspective view of another of the many embodiments of a truss according to the present disclosure shown in a retracted position.

[0025] Figure 4 is shown in a partially expanded position according to the present disclosure Figure 3 A perspective view of the truss.

[0026] Figure 5 is shown in a fully extended position according to the present disclosure Figure 3 A perspective view of the truss.

[0027] Figure 6 is a perspective view of yet another of the many embodiments of a truss according to the present disclosure shown in a retracted position.

[0028] Figure 7 is shown in an extended position according to the present disclosure Figure 6 A perspective view of the truss.

[0029] Figure 8is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a telescopic member according to the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig. 9 is shown in a locked position according to the present disclosure Figure 8 A three-dimensional diagram of the telescopic member.

[0031] Fig.10 According to the present disclosure Fig. 9 A partial exploded view of the telescopic member.

[0032] Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A perspective view of a telescopic member of FIG. 1 , wherein the inner and outer segments of the telescopic member are shown as being partially transparent to illustrate a concentric lock according to the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig.12 is shown in an extended position according to the present disclosure Fig.11 Stereoscopic image of concentric locks.

[0034] Fig.13 is shown in a compressed position according to the present disclosure Fig.11 Stereoscopic image of concentric locks.

[0035] Fig.14 is shown in a disengaged position according to the present disclosure Fig.11 Stereoscopic image of concentric locks.

[0036] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional perspective view of one of many embodiments of a telescopic member according to the present disclosure.

[0037] Fig.16 According to the present disclosure Fig.15 A cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of a telescopic member.

[0038] Fig.17 According to the present disclosure Fig.15 A sectional perspective view of another part of the telescopic member.

[0039] Fig.18 is a front view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure shown in a compressed position.

[0040] Fig.19 yes Fig.18 A sectional side view of a concentric lock.

[0041] Fig. 20 is a front view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure shown in an extended position.

[0042] Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 A sectional side view of a concentric lock.

[0043] Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of one of many embodiments of a telescoping member according to the present disclosure, showing a concentric lock in an extended position.

[0044] Fig.23 is a cutaway perspective view of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure.

[0045] Fig.24 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure shown in an extended position.

[0046] Fig.25 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure shown in a compressed position.

[0047] Fig.26 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure shown in a disengaged position.

[0048] Fig. 27 According to the present disclosure Fig.25 A perspective view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock pin.

[0049] Fig.28 is shown in the disengaged position Fig.26 A perspective view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock pin.

[0050] Fig.29 According to the present disclosure Fig.25 A cutaway perspective view of a concentric lock.

[0051] Fig.30 is shown in the disengaged position Fig.26 A cutaway perspective view of a concentric lock.

[0052] Fig.31 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a pin for a concentric lock according to the present disclosure.

[0053] Fig.32 is a front view of one of many embodiments of a pin for a concentric lock according to the present disclosure.

[0054] Fig.33 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a key for a concentric lock according to the present disclosure.

[0055] Fig.34 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an adjustable support system according to the present disclosure shown in an expanded position.

[0056] Fig.35 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an adjustable support system according to the present disclosure shown in a partially expanded position.

[0057] Fig.36 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an adjustable support system according to the present disclosure shown in a retracted position.

[0058] Fig.37 is a cross-sectional perspective view of one of many embodiments of a telescopic member according to the present disclosure.

[0059] Fig.38 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a telescopic member according to the present disclosure, showing different mounting positions.

[0060] Fig.39 is a perspective view of another of the many embodiments of an adjustable support system according to the present disclosure.

[0061] Fig.40 is a perspective view of yet another of the many embodiments of an adjustable support system according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0062] The above drawings and the following written description of specific structures and functions should not be presented as limiting the scope of the invention that the applicant has invented or the scope of the appended claims. Instead, the drawings and written descriptions are provided to teach any technician in the field to make and use the present invention for which patent protection is sought. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that, for the sake of clarity and understanding, not all features of the commercial implementation of the present invention are described or shown. It will also be understood by those skilled in the art that the development of an actual commercial implementation in combination with various aspects of the present invention will require a large number of implementation-specific decisions to achieve the developer's ultimate goal for the commercial implementation. Such implementation-specific decisions may include but may not be limited to compliance with system-related constraints, business-related constraints, government-related constraints, and other constraints, which may vary by specific implementation, location, and time. Although the efforts of the developer may be complex and time-consuming in an absolute sense, such efforts will be routine tasks for those skilled in the art who benefit from the present disclosure. It must be understood that the invention disclosed and taught herein is susceptible to many and various modifications and alternative forms.

[0063] The use of singular terms, such as but not limited to "one" is not intended to limit the number of items. In addition, in the written description, the use of relational terms such as but not limited to "top", "bottom", "left", "right", "upper", "lower", "upper", "side" and the like is to be clear when specifically referring to the accompanying drawings, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention or the appended claims. The terms "including" and "such as" are illustrative rather than restrictive. The terms "connection", "associated", "connected", "connector" and similar terms are widely used in this article, and may include for fixing, combining, bonding, fastening, attaching, engaging, inserting therein, forming thereon or therein, communicating one or more members or otherwise such as mechanically, magnetically, electrically, chemically, in an operable manner, directly or indirectly by an intermediate element, any method or device associated together with one or more members, and may further include but not limited to forming a functional component integrally with another functional component in a unified manner. Connection can occur in any direction, including in the direction of rotation. Furthermore, all parts and components of the present disclosure that are capable of being physically inherently implemented include both imaginary and real features, whether or not such features are explicitly described herein, including but not limited to characteristics such as axes, ends, inner and outer surfaces, interior spaces, tops, bottoms, sides, boundaries, dimensions (e.g., height, length, width, thickness), mass, weight, volume, and density.

[0064] Any process flow diagram discussed herein illustrates the operation of possible implementations of the system, method and computer program product according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. In this regard, each box in the flow chart can represent a module, fragment or part of the code, which may include one or more executable instructions for implementing a specified logical function. It should also be noted that in some implementations, the functions indicated in the box may not appear in the order depicted in the accompanying drawings. For example, the boxes shown in succession can actually be executed substantially simultaneously. It should also be noted that each box illustrated in the flow chart can be implemented by a special hardware-based system or a combination of special hardware and computer instructions that performs a specified function or action.

[0065] Applicants have created new and useful devices, systems, and methods for retractable support systems, such as for advantageously improving the efficiency of their installation. In at least one embodiment, a retractable support system according to the present disclosure may include a plurality of support members and one or more locking mechanisms. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may selectively allow movement of one or more support members relative to one or more other support members, such as between two or more positions or in two or more positions. In at least one embodiment, a support member may be spaced apart from or disposed farther from another support member in one position relative to another position. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism and the plurality of telescopic members may be collectively configured to select among a plurality of different size configurations and selectively lock the system into a selected configuration.

[0066] The retractable support system according to the present disclosure can be stored and / or transported in a fully retracted position or configuration, which can save space and improve efficiency during storage and transportation. Once on site, the system can be selectively expanded into any desired position in a fully retracted position and a fully extended position or in a number of available positions between the fully retracted position and the fully extended position. In this way, a single system can be used in a variety of situations and can be adapted to a variety of site conditions or requirements and / or variable site conditions or requirements, thereby simplifying logistics, design, and engineering considerations.

[0067] Figure 1 is a front view of one of many embodiments of a truss according to the present disclosure. Figure 2 is shown in a retracted position according to the present disclosure Figure 1 Front view of the truss. Figure 3 is a perspective view of another of the many embodiments of a truss according to the present disclosure shown in a retracted position. Figure 4 is shown in a partially expanded position according to the present disclosure Figure 3 A perspective view of the truss. Figure 5 is shown in a fully extended position according to the present disclosure Figure 3 A perspective view of the truss. Figure 6 is a perspective view of yet another of the many embodiments of a truss according to the present disclosure shown in a retracted position. Figure 7 is shown in an extended position according to the present disclosure Figure 6 A perspective view of the truss. Figure 8 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a telescopic member according to the present disclosure. Fig. 9 is shown in a locked position according to the present disclosure Figure 8 A three-dimensional diagram of the telescopic member. Fig.10 According to the present disclosure Fig. 9 A partial exploded view of the telescopic member. Fig.11 yes Fig.10 A perspective view of a telescopic member of FIG. 1 , wherein the inner and outer segments of the telescopic member are shown as being partially transparent to illustrate a concentric lock according to the present disclosure. Fig.12 is shown in an extended position according to the present disclosure Fig.11 Stereoscopic image of concentric locks. Fig.13 According to the present disclosure Fig.11 A perspective view of a concentric lock shown in a compressed position. Fig.14 is shown in a disengaged position according to the present disclosure Fig.11 Stereoscopic image of concentric locks. Fig.15 is a cross-sectional perspective view of one of many embodiments of a telescopic member according to the present disclosure. Fig.16 According to the present disclosure Fig.15 A cross-sectional perspective view of a portion of a telescopic member. Fig.17 According to the present disclosure Fig.15 A sectional perspective view of another part of the telescopic member. Fig.18 is a front view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure shown in a compressed position. Fig.19 yes Fig.18 A sectional side view of a concentric lock. Fig. 20 is a front view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure shown in an extended position. Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 A sectional side view of a concentric lock. Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of one of many embodiments of a telescoping member according to the present disclosure, showing a concentric lock in an extended position. Fig.23 is a cutaway perspective view of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure. Fig.24 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure shown in an extended position. Fig.25 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure shown in a compressed position. Fig.26 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock according to the present disclosure shown in a disengaged position. Fig. 27 According to the present disclosure Fig.25 A perspective view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock pin. Fig.28 is shown in the disengaged position Fig.26 A perspective view of one of many embodiments of a concentric lock pin. Fig.29 According to the present disclosure Fig.25 A cutaway perspective view of a concentric lock. Fig.30 is shown in the disengaged position Fig.26 A cutaway perspective view of a concentric lock. Fig.31 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a pin for a concentric lock according to the present disclosure. Fig.32 is a front view of one of many embodiments of a pin for a concentric lock according to the present disclosure. Fig.33 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a key for a concentric lock according to the present disclosure. Fig.34 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an adjustable support system according to the present disclosure shown in an expanded position. Fig.35 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an adjustable support system according to the present disclosure shown in a partially expanded position. Fig.36 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of an adjustable support system according to the present disclosure shown in a retracted position. Fig.37 is a cross-sectional perspective view of one of many embodiments of a telescopic member according to the present disclosure. Fig.38 is a perspective view of one of many embodiments of a telescopic member according to the present disclosure, showing different mounting positions. Fig.39 is a perspective view of another of the many embodiments of an adjustable support system according to the present disclosure. Fig.40 is a perspective view of yet another of the many embodiments of an adjustable support system according to the present disclosure. Figures 1 to 40 are described in conjunction with each other.

[0068] In at least one embodiment, the collapsible support system 100 may include one or more support members, such as a first rigid support member 102 and a second rigid support member 104, and one or more locking mechanisms 106. In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member 102 may be disposed or positioned parallel to (i.e., at least substantially parallel to) the second rigid support member 104. In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member 102 and / or the second rigid support member 104 may be or include a beam, and the system 100 may form a truss. In at least one embodiment, one or both of the first rigid support member 102 and / or the second rigid support member 104 may be a truss, frame, or box-shaped structure, and the system 100 may form a stand, platform, or other support structure that provides three-dimensional support.

[0069] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 can be configured to allow the first rigid support member 102 to move relative to the second rigid support member 104 (the second rigid support member 104 relative to the first rigid support member 102) between or among a first position, a second position, a third position, and / or another position, and the first position, the second position, the third position, and / or another position can be any position or many positions according to an implementation of the present disclosure or include any position or many positions according to an implementation of the present disclosure. For example, in at least one embodiment, the system 100 can have a fully retracted position, a fully extended position, and one or more intermediate positions, and the various components of the system 100 can have corresponding positions accordingly. As another example, in at least one embodiment, the system 100 can be selectively adjusted and fixed in one or more dimensions, such as height, width, and / or length. In this way, a retractable support system 100 according to the present disclosure, such as for exemplary purposes Figures 1 to 7 The trusses illustrated in the figure can be stored and / or transported in a fully retracted position or configuration, which can save space and improve efficiency during storage and transportation. Once on site, the trusses can be selectively extended to any desired position among the fully retracted position and the fully extended position or a number of available positions between the fully retracted position and the fully extended position. Therefore, the trusses can be used in a variety of situations and can be adapted to various and / or variable site conditions or requirements, thereby simplifying logistics, design and engineering considerations.

[0070] In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member 102 can be adjacent to the second rigid support member 104 in the first position (or other positions), such as by, for example, Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member 102 can be spaced apart from the second rigid support member 104 in the second position (or other positions), such as by, for example, Figure 1 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 Similarly, Fig.34 , Fig.35 and Fig.36 Non-limiting examples of the first position, the second position, and the third position are provided, respectively. Other possible examples of the first position, the second position, and / or other positions may be or include any position or a series of different positions according to an implementation of the present disclosure. For example, Figures 34 to 40Collectively, at least one embodiment of a system 100 according to the present disclosure is illustrated as to how it can be selectively adapted and moved in a number of different different positions in one or more directions. In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member 102 can be spaced further from the second rigid support member 104 in the second position and / or the third position than in the first position. In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member 102 can be spaced further from the second rigid support member 104 in the third position than in the second position. In at least one embodiment, according to implementations of the present disclosure, the locking mechanism 106 can be configured to selectively lock the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 in any of a number of different positions as needed or desired.

[0071] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 may include one or more locking telescopic members 120, such as a first locking telescopic member 120a and a second locking telescopic member 120b. In at least one embodiment, in the second position, the first locking telescopic member 120a may be orthogonal to the second locking telescopic member 120b (i.e., at least approximately perpendicular to the second locking telescopic member 120b). In at least one embodiment, the first locking telescopic member 120a may be fixed at an angle relative to the second locking telescopic member 120b, wherein the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are locked in the second position. In at least one embodiment, the first locking telescopic member 120a may be fixed at an angle relative to the second locking telescopic member 120b at 90 degrees or about 90 degrees (i.e., at least about 90 degrees), wherein the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are locked in the second position. In at least one embodiment, the first locking telescopic member 120a can be fixed at an angle of 75 degrees or about 75 degrees relative to the second locking telescopic member 120b, wherein the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are locked in the second position. In at least one embodiment, the first locking telescopic member 120a can be fixed at an angle of 60 degrees or about 60 degrees relative to the second locking telescopic member 120b, wherein the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are locked in the second position. In at least one embodiment, the first locking telescopic member 120a can be fixed at an angle of 45 degrees or about 45 degrees relative to the second locking telescopic member 120b, wherein the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are locked in the second position. In at least one embodiment, the first locking telescopic member 120a can be fixed at an angle of between 45 degrees and 90 degrees (including 45 degrees and 90 degrees) relative to the second locking telescopic member 120b, wherein the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are locked in the second position.

[0072] In at least one embodiment, any locking telescopic member 120 or each locking telescopic member 120 may include an inner section 122, an outer section 124 and / or a concentric lock 140. In at least one embodiment, the inner section 122 may be at least partially slidably mounted within the outer section 124. In at least one embodiment, the inner section 122 telescopes within the outer section 124. In at least one embodiment, any locking telescopic member 120 or each locking telescopic member 120 may have a first length when the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are in a first position. In at least one embodiment, any locking telescopic member 120 or each locking telescopic member 120 may have a second length longer than the first length when the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are locked in the second position. In at least one embodiment, any locking telescopic member 120 or each locking telescopic member 120 may have a third length longer than the second length when the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are locked in a third position.

[0073] In at least one embodiment, the first locking telescopic member 120a and / or the second locking telescopic member 120b may include a concentric lock 140. In at least one embodiment, any or each concentric lock 140 may include an outer housing 142 fixedly mounted to the inner section 122 of the corresponding locking telescopic member 120 and an inner pin 144 slidably mounted within the outer housing 142. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 may be biased toward an extended position in which the inner pin 144 extends from the outer housing 142 and engages the hole 126 in the outer section 124 of the corresponding locking telescopic member 120, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member 120 and preventing it from further telescoping.

[0074] In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 can be biased toward the extended position by a spring 146, which can be retained within the outer housing 142 by a retaining ring 148. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 can slide longitudinally within the outer housing 142. For example, a protrusion 150, such as a set screw, can extend inwardly from the outer housing 142. In at least one embodiment, the protrusion 150 can be located within a groove 152 in the inner pin 144 as the inner pin 144 slides longitudinally within the outer housing 142.

[0075] In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 can be pushed into the outer housing 142 and rotated relative to the outer housing 142, such as by using the key 160, thereby at least partially locking the inner pin 144 within the outer housing 142 and allowing the corresponding locking telescoping member 120 to freely telescope. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 can include a peripheral protrusion 154. In at least one embodiment, the groove 152 of the inner pin 144 can extend into the peripheral protrusion 154. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 can be pushed into the outer housing 142 so that the groove 152 slides along the set screw 150 until the set screw 150 extends beyond the protrusion 154. In at least one embodiment, with the set screw 150 extending beyond the protrusion 154, the inner pin 144 can be rotated relative to the outer housing 142 so that the set screw 150 engages the protrusion 154. In at least one embodiment, the set screw 150 engaging the protrusion 154 retains the inner pin 144 in the disengaged position, thereby allowing the locking telescoping member 120 to freely telescope.

[0076] In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 can receive the bolt 130 therethrough. In at least one embodiment, the bolt 130 can be secured with a nut 132 and / or a plurality of washers 134. In at least one embodiment, the bolt 130 can ensure that the concentric lock 140 locks the inner section 122 relative to the outer section 124, thereby locking the locking telescopic member 120 and preventing it from further telescoping. In at least one embodiment, the bolt 130 can reinforce the concentric lock 140, thereby preventing the concentric lock 140 from disengaging or otherwise failing to lock the inner section 122 relative to the outer section 124, thereby locking the locking telescopic member 120.

[0077] In at least one embodiment, the outer housing 142 can be secured to the inner section 122 using one or more fasteners 156. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 can include one or more slots 158. In at least one embodiment, the key 160 can include one or more blades 162 to engage the slots 158 in the inner pin 144 and, through such engagement, rotate the inner pin 144, as described herein.

[0078] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 may include a first locking telescopic member 120a and a second locking telescopic member 120b adjacent to the first ends of the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 may include a third locking telescopic member 120c and a fourth locking telescopic member 120d adjacent to the second ends of the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104. In at least one embodiment, in the second position, the first locking telescopic member 120a may be orthogonal to the second locking telescopic member 120b and / or the third locking telescopic member 120c may be orthogonal to the fourth locking telescopic member 120d.

[0079] In at least one embodiment, any or each of the locking telescopic members 120 may include a concentric lock 140. In at least one embodiment, each concentric lock 140 may include an outer housing 142 fixedly mounted to the inner section 122 of the corresponding locking telescopic member 120 and an inner pin 144 slidably mounted within the outer housing 142. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 may be biased toward an extended position in which the inner pin 144 extends from the outer housing 142 and engages the hole 126 in the outer section 124 of the corresponding locking telescopic member 120, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member 120 and preventing it from further telescoping. In at least one embodiment, each inner pin 144 may be pushed into the corresponding outer housing 142 and rotated relative to the corresponding outer housing 142, thereby at least partially locking the inner pin 144 within the corresponding outer housing 142 and allowing the corresponding locking telescopic member 120 to telescope freely.

[0080] In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 of the first locking telescopic member 120a and the inner pin 144 of the second locking telescopic member 120b can receive the bolt 130 therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 in the second position and / or rigidly fixing the first locking telescopic member 120a relative to the second locking telescopic member 120b. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes a plurality of crossed locking telescopic members 120. In at least one embodiment, when the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are in the second position, each pair of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members 120 can receive the bolt 130 therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 in the second position and / or rigidly fixing each pair of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members 120. In at least one embodiment, one or more pairs of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members 120 can include one or more concentric locks 140. In at least one embodiment, each intersecting pair of locking telescoping members in the locking telescoping members 120 may include one or more concentric locks 140 .

[0081] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 can include an adjustment system 170 (e.g., one or more screw jacks, one or more scissor jacks, one or more hydraulic jacks, one or more rack and pinion mechanisms, one or more other jacks or adjustment mechanisms, or any combination thereof) for adjusting and / or setting the distance between the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 and / or the position of one or more of the locking telescopic members 120. In at least one embodiment, the adjustment system 170 can adjust the distance between the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 and / or the position of one or more pairs of intersecting locking telescopic members 120 in a smooth, continuous manner so that any relative spacing between the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 (i.e., any desired position among a plurality of selectable positions in or between the fully retracted position and the fully extended position) can be achieved. In at least one embodiment, when the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are in the first position, the second position, the third position, or any other selected position, each pair of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members 120 can receive a bolt 130 or other fastener or boss therein or therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 in the selected position and / or rigidly fixing each pair of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members 120 in place.

[0082] In at least one embodiment, a single support system 100 can be used for a variety of applications by allowing the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 to be locked in any position, thereby simplifying logistics and reducing costs. For example, an embodiment of the system 100 that can accommodate multiple different size implementations can provide versatility in two or more physical applications that require different system heights, widths, and / or lengths, which can reduce inventory requirements (i.e., relative to stocking a large number of different models or sizes of systems 100).

[0083] In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 or any of the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 can be or include a beam, a tube, a truss, a box-shaped member and / or a frame. For example, for illustrative purposes, as shown in Figure 34 to Figure 36 and Figure 39 to Figure 40 As shown in , in at least one embodiment, one or both of the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 can be or include a quadrilateral structure, wherein two end members 108 are coupled to two lateral members 110. Although the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 can be rectangular as illustrated in the exemplary figures mentioned above, this is not necessarily the case, and the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 can be any shape required or desired according to the implementation of the present disclosure. Similarly, each of the end members 108 and the lateral members 110 can have any cross-sectional size and shape required or desired according to the implementation of the present disclosure, such as an L-shaped channel, a C-shaped channel, a square tube, a rectangular tube, or another size and shape, whether individually or in combination, in whole or in part.

[0084] In at least one embodiment, the adjustment system 170 can include a plurality of actuation components and / or support components for adjusting, setting, and / or supporting a selected positioning of the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104. For example, in at least one embodiment, the adjustment system 170 can include one or more cross members 174 for supporting the positioning of the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 relative to each other, such as a first pair of cross members 174 coupled to the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 and a second pair of cross members 174 coupled to the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104. In at least one embodiment, each cross member 174 can have a first end rotatably coupled to a fixed support 176 on one of the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 and a second end rotatably and / or slidably coupled to one of the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104. In this manner, movement of the cross member 174 can cause or result in corresponding movement of the first and second rigid support members 102, 104, and the locking telescopic member 120. In at least one embodiment, the adjustment system 170 can include one or more sliding supports 178, which are slidably coupled to a corresponding one of the first and second rigid support members 102, 104 for supporting movement of the first and second rigid support members 102, 104 relative to each other. For example, in at least one embodiment, one end of each cross member can be rotatably coupled to the sliding support 178, and each sliding support 178 can be slidably coupled to one or more corresponding guide members 180, which are coupled to one of the first and second rigid support members 102, 104.

[0085] In at least one embodiment, the adjustment system 170 can include one or more actuation components for selectively moving the cross member 174 to selectively position the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 and lock the telescopic member 120. For example, the adjustment system 170 can include one or more actuator components 184, such as supports or other structural components, for supporting the movement of the one or more sliding supports 178, and one or more actuator drivers 186, such as rods or other linkages or drive structures, for cooperating with and moving the one or more actuator components 184. In at least one embodiment, the actuator members 184 can be coupled to a corresponding pair of sliding supports 178 such that the actuator members 184 and the corresponding sliding supports 178 move together or in unison, and the actuator driver 186 can be configured to slide or otherwise move the actuator members 184 and the corresponding sliding supports 178 relative to the first and second rigid support members 102, 104, such as longitudinally along the pair of guide members 180. For illustrative purposes, as shown in Figure 34 to Figure 36 and Figure 39 to Figure 40 As shown in , in at least one embodiment, the actuator driver 186 can be or include a feed screw that is rotatably coupled to a corresponding one of the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 and threadedly coupled to a mating opening of the actuator member 184, such that rotation of the feed screw causes linear movement of the actuator member 184 and the corresponding sliding support 178 relative to the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104, and thus causes a corresponding expansion movement or contraction movement of the system 100 (i.e., depending on the rotation direction of the feed screw). However, this is only one example among many, and other actuation mechanisms such as via linear actuators, chain drives, belt drives, gear transmissions, and / or other types of actuation mechanisms capable of selectively adjusting the positioning of the system 100 according to the present disclosure are also possible.

[0086] In at least one embodiment, the adjustment system 170 can be manual or manually operated. For example, the actuator driver 186 can be arranged for manual manipulation by a user or installer, such as by a ratchet, a guide rod, a drill, and / or other hand-held tool for operating the actuator driver 186 according to the implementation at hand (e.g., rotating the actuator driver 186 in an implementation with a feed screw). As another example, in at least one embodiment, the adjustment system 170 can be fully automated and / or motorized or partially automated and / or motorized, and can include an actuator 172. The actuator 172 can be or include any type of prime mover and / or associated linkage for controlling the movement of one or more components of the adjustment system 170 as required or desired by the implementation of the present disclosure.

[0087] For example, for illustrative purposes, Fig.39 , in at least one embodiment, the actuator 172 can be or include a motor operably coupled to the actuator driver 186. In the manner described above, the actuator 172 can be used to change or adjust the distance or relative positioning between the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104. In at least one embodiment, the actuator 172 can be removably coupled to the actuator driver 186 and / or one or more other components of the system 100, such that once a given implementation of the present disclosure is placed in place and adjusted accordingly, the actuator 172 can be removed and used, for example, with another implementation of the support system 100. As another example, in at least one embodiment, actuator 172 can remain connected to the rest of system 100 during use of system 100, for example, in the following implementations of system 100: it may be desirable to adjust or reposition first rigid support member 102 and second rigid support member 104 periodically or otherwise from time to time.

[0088] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 may include one or more pairs of intersecting locking telescopic members 120. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 may include one or more locking telescopic members 120 mounted at an angle. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 may include one or more horizontally mounted locking telescopic members 120. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 may include one or more vertically mounted locking telescopic members 120. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 may include one or more locking telescopic members 120 having concentric locks 140 and / or bolts 130 to secure the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 in any selected available position and / or to rigidly secure the locking telescopic members 120.

[0089] In at least one embodiment, each locking telescopic member 120 may include a concentric lock 140. In at least one embodiment, each concentric lock 140 may include an outer housing 142 fixedly mounted to the inner section 122 of the corresponding locking telescopic member 120 and an inner pin 144 slidably mounted within the outer housing 142. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 may be biased toward an extended position in which the inner pin 144 extends from the outer housing 142 and engages the hole 126 in the outer section 124 of the corresponding locking telescopic member 120, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member 120 and preventing it from further telescoping. In at least one embodiment, each inner pin 144 may be pushed into the corresponding outer housing 142 and rotated relative to the corresponding outer housing 142, thereby at least partially locking the inner pin 144 within the corresponding outer housing 142 and allowing the corresponding locking telescopic member 120 to telescope freely.

[0090] In at least one embodiment, the first pair of crossed locking telescopic members 120 may include a first locking telescopic member 120a and a second locking telescopic member 120b. In at least one embodiment, the internal pin 144 of the first locking telescopic member 120a and the internal pin 144 of the second locking telescopic member 120b can be aligned and / or receive the bolt 130 therethrough, such as when the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are in the second position, the internal pin 144 of the first locking telescopic member 120a and the internal pin 144 of the second locking telescopic member 120b can be aligned and / or receive the bolt 130 therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 in the second position and / or rigidly fixing the first locking telescopic member 120a relative to the second locking telescopic member 120b.

[0091] In at least one embodiment, the second pair of crossed locking telescopic members 120 may include a third locking telescopic member 120c and a fourth locking telescopic member 120d. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin 144 of the third locking telescopic member 120c and the inner pin 144 of the fourth locking telescopic member 120d can be aligned and / or receive another bolt 130 therethrough, such as when the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 are in the second position, the inner pin 144 of the third locking telescopic member 120c and the inner pin 144 of the fourth locking telescopic member 120d can be aligned and / or receive another bolt 130 therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 in the second position and / or rigidly fixing the third locking telescopic member 120c relative to the fourth locking telescopic member 120d.

[0092] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 can be configured to lock the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 in a first position and / or multiple positions. For example, in at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism 106 can be configured to lock the first rigid support member 102 and the second rigid support member 104 in a third position, and the first rigid support member 102 can be spaced farther from the second rigid support member 104 in the third position than in the second position.

[0093] In at least one embodiment, the retractable support system may include a first rigid support member, a second rigid support member that may be parallel to the first rigid support member, and a locking mechanism. In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member may be a first beam and / or the second rigid support member may be a second beam. In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member may be a first truss and / or the second rigid support member may be a second truss. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may be configured to allow the first rigid support member to move between a first position and a second position relative to the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, the first rigid support member may be spaced farther from the second rigid support member in the second position than in the first position. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may also be configured to lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in one or more other positions, such as one or more positions between the first position and the second position. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in any available position in a series of different available positions between the first position and the second position.

[0094] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may include a first locking telescopic member and a second locking telescopic member. In at least one embodiment, in the second position, the first locking telescopic member may be orthogonal to the second locking telescopic member.

[0095] In at least one embodiment, the first locking telescopic member may include a first concentric lock. In at least one embodiment, the second locking telescopic member may include a second concentric lock. In at least one embodiment, any one of the concentric locks or both concentric locks may include an outer housing fixedly mounted to the inner section of the corresponding locking telescopic member and an inner pin slidably mounted in the outer housing. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin may be biased toward an extended position, in which the inner pin extends from the outer housing and engages a hole in the outer section of the corresponding locking telescopic member, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member and preventing it from further telescoping. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin may be pushed into the outer housing and rotated relative to the outer housing, thereby locking the inner pin in the outer housing and allowing the corresponding locking telescopic member to telescope freely. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin may receive a bolt passing therethrough.

[0096] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may include a first locking telescopic member and a second locking telescopic member adjacent to the first ends of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may include a third locking telescopic member and a fourth locking telescopic member adjacent to the second ends of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, in the second position, the first locking telescopic member may be orthogonal to the second locking telescopic member and / or the third locking telescopic member may be orthogonal to the fourth locking telescopic member.

[0097] In at least one embodiment, any or each of the locking telescopic members may include a concentric lock. In at least one embodiment, each concentric lock may include an outer housing fixedly mounted to the inner section of the corresponding locking telescopic member and an inner pin slidably mounted in the outer housing. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin may be biased toward an extended position, in which the inner pin extends from the outer housing and engages the hole in the outer section of the corresponding locking telescopic member, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member and preventing it from further telescoping. In at least one embodiment, each inner pin may be pushed into the corresponding outer housing and rotated relative to the corresponding outer housing, thereby locking the inner pin in the corresponding outer housing and allowing the corresponding locking telescopic member to telescope freely.

[0098] In at least one embodiment, the internal pin of the first locking telescopic member and the internal pin of the second locking telescopic member can receive a first bolt passing therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position and / or rigidly fixing the first locking telescopic member relative to the second locking telescopic member. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism includes multiple pairs of crossed locking telescopic members. In at least one embodiment, when the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member are in the second position, each pair of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members can receive a bolt passing therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position and / or rigidly fixing each pair of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members.

[0099] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism may include an adjustment system, such as one or more screw jacks, one or more scissor jacks, one or more hydraulic jacks, one or more rack and pinion mechanisms, one or more other jacks or adjustment mechanisms, or any combination thereof, configured to adjust the distance between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member and / or the distance between one or more pairs of intersecting locking telescopic members. In at least one embodiment, when the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member are in the second position, each pair of intersecting locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members can receive a bolt therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position and / or rigidly fixing each pair of intersecting locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members.

[0100] In at least one embodiment, each locking telescopic member may include a concentric lock. In at least one embodiment, each concentric lock may include an outer housing fixedly mounted to the inner section of the corresponding locking telescopic member and an inner pin slidably mounted in the outer housing. In at least one embodiment, the inner pin may be biased toward an extended position in which the inner pin extends from the outer housing and engages a hole in the outer section of the corresponding locking telescopic member, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member and preventing it from further telescoping. In at least one embodiment, each inner pin may be pushed into the corresponding outer housing and rotated relative to the corresponding outer housing, thereby locking the inner pin in the corresponding outer housing and allowing the corresponding locking telescopic member to telescope freely.

[0101] In at least one embodiment, the first pair of crossed locking telescopic members may include a first locking telescopic member and a second locking telescopic member. In at least one embodiment, the internal pin of the first locking telescopic member and the internal pin of the second locking telescopic member can be aligned and / or receive a first bolt passing therethrough, such as when the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member are in the second position, the internal pin of the first locking telescopic member and the internal pin of the second locking telescopic member can be aligned and / or receive the first bolt passing therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position and / or rigidly fixing the first locking telescopic member relative to the second locking telescopic member.

[0102] In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism can be configured to lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in a first position and / or multiple positions. For example, in at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism can be configured to lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in a third position, and the first rigid support member can be spaced farther from the second rigid support member in the third position than in the second position.

[0103] In at least one embodiment, the system may include a first pair of locking telescopic members connected to the first ends of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member, and a second pair of locking telescopic members connected to the second ends of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, each of the locking telescopic members can be configured to selectively lock at a plurality of different lengths, thereby selectively limiting the maximum distance between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, each of the locking telescopic members can be configured to selectively lock at a plurality of different lengths, thereby allowing a user to select from a plurality of different system size arrangements, such as height and width. In at least one embodiment, each of the locking telescopic members can include an end fixedly attached to the first rigid support member and another end fixedly attached to the second rigid support member.

[0104] In at least one embodiment, each of the locking telescopic members may include an end rotatably attached to the first rigid support member and another end rotatably attached to the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, such as at a position between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member, the first pair of locking telescopic members may be rotatably connected to each other, and the second pair of locking telescopic members may be rotatably connected to each other. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism and the first pair of locking telescopic members and the second pair of locking telescopic members may be jointly configured to be able to selectively adjust and lock the system in a plurality of different size combinations, and the plurality of different size combinations may include height, width and / or length. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism that may include one or more pairs of locking telescopic members or any part thereof may be jointly configured to be able to selectively adjust and lock the system in any of a plurality of different size combinations that may include height, width and / or length. In at least one embodiment, the locking mechanism and / or the paired locking telescopic members may be jointly configured to be able to selectively adjust and lock the system in any of a plurality of different configurations having different distances between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member.

[0105] In at least one embodiment, the system may include an adjustment system having one or more cross members for supporting the positioning of the first and second rigid support members, such as a first pair of cross members coupled to the first and second rigid support members and a second pair of cross members coupled to the first and second rigid support members. In at least one embodiment, each cross member may have an end of a fixed support member coupled to one of the first and second rigid support members in a rotatable manner and another end coupled to one of the first and second rigid support members in a rotatable manner and / or in a slidable manner. In at least one embodiment, the movement of the cross member may cause or result in corresponding movement of one or more other system components, such as the first and second rigid support members and the locking telescopic member. In at least one embodiment, the adjustment system may include one or more sliding supports, which are slidably coupled to a corresponding one of the first and second rigid support members. In at least one embodiment, one end of each cross member can be rotatably coupled to a sliding support, and each sliding support can be slidably coupled to one or more corresponding guide members, which are coupled to one of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, one end of each of the cross members can be slidably coupled to one of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, such as at a position between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member, the first pair of cross members can be rotatably coupled to each other, and the second pair of cross members can be rotatably coupled to each other.

[0106] In at least one embodiment, the system may include a first pair of sliding supports slidably coupled to the first rigid support member and a second pair of sliding supports slidably coupled to the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, the end of each of the cross members may be rotatably coupled to a corresponding one of the sliding supports. In at least one embodiment, the system may include a first pair of guide members coupled to the first rigid support member and a second pair of guide members coupled to the second rigid support member. The corresponding one of the first pair of sliding supports may be slidably coupled to the corresponding one of the first pair of guide members, and the corresponding one of the second pair of sliding supports may be slidably coupled to the corresponding one of the second pair of guide members.

[0107] In at least one embodiment, the system may include an actuator member coupled to a pair of sliding supports and configured to slide relative to a pair of guide members in unison with the sliding supports. In at least one embodiment, the actuator driver may be configured to selectively move the actuator member for causing a change in the position of at least one of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member. In at least one embodiment, the actuator driver may be a feed screw, and the feed screw may be rotatably coupled to one or more of the rigid support members and may be threadedly coupled to the actuator member. In at least one embodiment, the system may include an actuator coupled to the actuator driver and configured to selectively move the actuator driver for causing a change in the position of the actuator member. In at least one embodiment, the actuator may be a motor or include a motor. In at least one embodiment, the actuator may be removably coupled to one or more other system components.

[0108] Without departing from the spirit of the applicant's disclosure, it is conceivable to utilize other and further embodiments of one or more aspects of the present disclosure. For example, devices, systems and methods can be implemented for many different types and sizes in many different industries. In addition, various methods and embodiments of devices, systems and methods can be included in a combination with each other to produce variations of the disclosed methods and embodiments. Discussions of singular elements can include plural elements, and discussions of plural elements can include singular elements. Unless otherwise specifically limited, the order of steps can occur in various orders. The various steps described herein can be combined with other steps, interspersed with the stated steps and / or divided into multiple steps. Similarly, elements have been described functionally and can be implemented as separate components or can be combined into components with multiple functions.

[0109] The invention has been described in the context of preferred and other embodiments, and not every embodiment of the invention has been described. Obvious modifications and variations of the described embodiments will be useful to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. The disclosed and undisclosed embodiments are not intended to limit or restrict the scope or applicability of the invention contemplated by the applicant, but in accordance with patent law, the applicant intends to fully protect all such modifications and improvements that fall within the scope of the appended claims or within the scope of equivalents of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A retractable support system comprising: a first rigid support member; a second rigid support member, the second rigid support member being parallel to the first rigid support member; as well as a locking mechanism configured to allow the first rigid support member to move relative to the second rigid support member between a first position and a second position, wherein the first rigid support member is spaced further from the second rigid support member in the second position than in the first position; Wherein, the locking mechanism is further configured to lock the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The locking mechanism comprises a first locking telescopic member and a second locking telescopic member, and wherein, in the second position, the first locking telescopic member is orthogonal to the second locking telescopic member.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein: The first locking telescopic member includes a first concentric lock and the second locking telescopic member includes a second concentric lock; wherein the first concentric lock includes an outer shell fixedly mounted to an inner section of the first locking telescopic member and an inner pin slidably mounted within the outer shell; wherein the inner pin is biased toward an extended position, in which the inner pin extends from the outer shell and engages a hole in the outer section of the first locking telescopic member, thereby locking the first locking telescopic member and preventing the first locking telescopic member from further telescoping; wherein the inner pin is configured to be pushed into the outer shell and rotated relative to the outer shell, thereby locking the inner pin within the outer shell and allowing the first locking telescopic member to freely telescope; and wherein the inner pin is configured to receive a bolt passing therethrough.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The locking mechanism includes a first locking telescopic member and a second locking telescopic member adjacent to the first ends of the first rigid supporting member and the second rigid supporting member; wherein the locking mechanism includes a third locking telescopic member and a fourth locking telescopic member adjacent to the second ends of the first rigid supporting member and the second rigid supporting member; and wherein, in the second position, the first locking telescopic member is orthogonal to the second locking telescopic member and the third locking telescopic member is orthogonal to the fourth locking telescopic member.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein: The first locking telescopic member includes a first concentric lock, the second locking telescopic member includes a second concentric lock, the third locking telescopic member includes a third concentric lock, and the fourth locking telescopic member includes a fourth concentric lock; wherein each concentric lock includes an outer shell fixedly mounted to an inner section of the corresponding locking telescopic member and an inner pin slidably mounted in the outer shell; and wherein the inner pin is biased toward an extended position, in which the inner pin extends from the outer shell and engages a hole in the outer section of the corresponding locking telescopic member, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member and preventing the corresponding locking telescopic member from further telescoping.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein: Each inner pin is configured to be pushed into a corresponding outer shell and rotated relative to the corresponding outer shell, thereby locking the inner pin within the corresponding outer shell and allowing the corresponding locking telescopic member to freely telescope.

7. The system according to claim 5, wherein: The inner pin of the first locking telescopic member and the inner pin of the second locking telescopic member are configured to receive a first bolt therethrough, thereby locking the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member in the second position and rigidly fixing the first locking telescopic member relative to the second locking telescopic member.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The locking mechanism includes a first pair of crossed locking telescopic members and a second pair of crossed locking telescopic members; wherein each pair of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members is configured to receive a bolt passing through the locking telescopic members when the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member are in the second position, thereby rigidly fixing each pair of crossed locking telescopic members in the locking telescopic members.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein: Each locking telescopic member comprises a concentric lock; wherein each concentric lock comprises an outer housing fixedly mounted to an inner section of a corresponding locking telescopic member and an inner pin slidably mounted within the outer housing; wherein the inner pin is biased toward an extended position in which the inner pin extends from the outer housing and engages a hole in the outer section of the corresponding locking telescopic member, thereby locking the corresponding locking telescopic member and preventing the corresponding locking telescopic member from further telescoping; and wherein each inner pin is configured to be pushed into the corresponding outer housing and rotated relative to the corresponding outer housing, thereby locking the inner pin within the corresponding outer housing and allowing the corresponding locking telescopic member to freely telescope.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The locking mechanism comprises: a first pair of locking telescoping members coupled to first ends of the first and second rigid support members; and a second pair of locking telescopic members coupled to second ends of the first and second rigid support members; Each of the locking telescopic members is configured to be selectively locked at a plurality of different lengths, thereby selectively limiting a maximum distance between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member.

11. The system according to claim 10, further comprising: a first pair of cross members coupled to the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member; as well as a second pair of cross members coupled to the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member; a first pair of sliding supports slidably coupled to the first rigid support member; as well as a second pair of sliding supports slidably coupled to the second rigid support member; wherein each cross member has a first end portion rotatably coupled to a fixed support on one of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member; and Wherein, the second end of the cross member is rotatably coupled to a corresponding one of the sliding bearings.

12. The system according to claim 11, further comprising: a first pair of guide members coupled to the first rigid support member; as well as a second pair of guide members coupled to the second rigid support member; wherein the corresponding sliding bearings of the first pair of sliding bearings are slidably coupled to the corresponding guide members of the first pair of guide members; and Wherein, the corresponding sliding bearing of the second pair of sliding bearings is slidably coupled to the corresponding guide member of the second pair of guide members.

13. The system of claim 12, further comprising: an actuator member coupled to the second pair of sliding supports and configured to slide relative to the second pair of guide members in unison with the second pair of sliding supports; as well as An actuator driver is configured to selectively move the actuator member for causing a change in a position of at least one of the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein: The actuator driver is a feed screw, and wherein the feed screw is rotatably coupled to the second rigid support member and threadably coupled to the actuator member.

15. The system of claim 14, further comprising a motor configured to selectively rotate the feed screw.

16. The system of claim 10, wherein: Each of the locking telescopic members has a first end fixedly attached to the first rigid support member and a second end fixedly attached to the second rigid support member.

17. The system according to claim 10, wherein: Each of the locking telescopic members has a first end rotatably attached to the first rigid support member and a second end rotatably attached to the second rigid support member.

18. The system of claim 10, wherein: The first pair of locking telescopic members are rotatably coupled to each other, and wherein the second pair of locking telescopic members are rotatably coupled to each other.

19. The system of claim 10, wherein: The first pair of locking telescopic members and the second pair of locking telescopic members are collectively configured to enable selective adjustment and locking of the system at any one of a plurality of different distances between the first rigid support member and the second rigid support member.

20. The system of claim 11, wherein: The first pair of cross members are rotatably coupled to each other, and wherein the second pair of cross members are rotatably coupled to each other.

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