Podestmodul

Abstract

Platform module (1) for the construction of multi-level platform landscapes, wherein the platform module (1) has a trapezoidal base and at least two fixed steps (2), characterized in that the platform module (1) can be stacked on top of at least one other, similar platform module (1).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a platform module for constructing multi-level platform landscapes.

[0002] Platform landscapes serve to create areas that can be used, particularly in educational institutions, event venues, and work environments, to promote group work, presentations, and discussions. Multi-level platform landscapes offer variable usage areas that can be used as seating or standing areas as well as presentation platforms.

[0003] Such platform landscapes usually consist of permanently installed, large-scale structural elements. These are typically heavy and remain permanently connected to the respective space. More recently, modular approaches have also become available on the market, offering improved flexibility in terms of reconfiguration and adaptability, and allowing for the repositioning of individual elements.

[0004] Permanently installed structures are difficult to move due to their weight and bulky design, and adapting them to changing spatial concepts requires considerable effort. While available modular systems offer greater flexibility in terms of repositioning and reconfiguration, they often remain problematic when it comes to storage. Due to their construction and volume, even modular elements cannot be stored in a space-saving manner. They still require a significant amount of space, hindering the efficient use of available areas, especially when the platform structure needs to be temporarily dismantled or stored.

[0005] The challenge, therefore, is to provide a system that allows for flexible construction of a platform landscape and easy adaptation to different spatial requirements, while also being easy to transport and space-saving to store.

[0006] This problem is solved according to the invention by a platform module for building multi-level platform landscapes, wherein the platform module has a trapezoidal base and at least two fixed steps, and wherein the platform module can be stacked on top of at least one other, similar platform module.

[0007] The platform module according to the invention can be used both individually and, in particular, for constructing multi-level platform landscapes. A platform landscape is understood to be a combination of several identical and / or different platform modules, essentially arranged laterally relative to one another. By joining several platform modules side by side, flexibly designed, clearly structured platform landscapes can be created. Use as seating is particularly preferred, although use as a standing area is also possible.

[0008] The pedestal module according to the invention has a trapezoidal base. The trapezoidal base comprises a longer base, an opposite shorter base, and two legs. Preferably, the base is isosceles. The longer base preferably measures between 90 and 130 cm, more preferably between 115 and 120 cm. The shorter base is preferably between 30 and 60 cm, more preferably approximately 55 cm long. The side lengths of the legs are also preferably between 90 and 130 cm, more preferably between 115 and 125 cm, more preferably approximately 120 cm long. The term "approximately" indicates a tolerance of up to ± 2 cm.

[0009] Furthermore, the platform module has at least two fixed steps. These fixed steps are conveniently arranged in a stair-like configuration, allowing for safe sitting or standing. The multi-level design thus results from the construction of the individual module itself, and not from modules placed vertically relative to one another.

[0010] A key feature of the pedestal module according to the invention is that it can be stacked on top of at least one other identical pedestal module. The trapezoidal base of the module is particularly advantageous, as it enables the modules to be stacked securely and stably, and makes lateral slippage or tipping more difficult when stacked.

[0011] Advantageously, the opening angle of the trapezoidal base is chosen to ensure good stackability of the platform modules. The opening angle describes the enclosed angle at the intersection of the extensions of the legs outside the trapezoid. A comparatively acute opening angle can make stacking the platform modules difficult and lead to an increased tendency for the stack to tip forward. Conversely, with a comparatively large opening angle, the stacked system tends to become bulky, which can make handling difficult. The opening angle is preferably 20° to 50°, particularly preferably 25° to 40°, and especially preferably approximately 30°. Furthermore, the opening angle is preferably chosen such that by combining several identical platform modules, platform landscapes with advantageous geometries, such as a semicircle or full circle, can be formed.A 30° angle is therefore particularly preferred because by using 6 pedestal modules next to each other exactly a semicircle (6 x 30° = 180°) is created, and by using 12 pedestal modules a full circle (12 x 30° = 360°) is created.

[0012] Preferably, the platform modules are designed so that the step sections fit together tightly when stacked, resulting in greater stability and a compact stack. Preferably, three to five, and particularly preferably up to four, platform modules can be stacked on top of each other.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the platform module is designed such that the fixed steps and their vertical end faces, i.e., the risers, are configured as substantially closed surfaces. The side surfaces of the platform module are preferably also configured as substantially continuous surfaces, so that the platform module appears substantially closed from the front and the side. One side surface is bounded by the stepped slope and by two substantially straight edges, preferably arranged at right angles to each other. The underside and the rear of the module are expediently open, allowing the platform module to be accessed from below and from the rear and enabling stacking.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the platform module has at least one connecting opening on at least one side surface. Platform modules arranged side by side can be detachably connected to one another via this opening using a connecting element. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the platform module has at least one connecting opening on both side surfaces. Particularly preferably, the platform module has a connecting opening in each of the corner areas between the stepped slope and the two substantially vertical edges of the side surface.

[0015] According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one connecting opening is keyhole-shaped. For these keyhole-shaped connecting openings, connecting elements are preferably used that have a thickened section or head, allowing them to be inserted into the enlarged area of ​​the opening and securely fixed by sliding them within the narrower section. Examples include bolts or screws with enlarged heads, special connecting dowels, eccentric connectors, or functionally similar connecting elements from furniture and exhibition stand construction. This enables a simple, secure, and releasable connection of adjacent platform modules.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, the platform module has at least one gripping point on one end face. This enables easy and safe handling, particularly when lifting and moving the module. The at least one gripping point is preferably located on the lowest end face, between the lowest step and the floor. It can be designed in various ways, for example as a separate attachment or as an integral part of the module body.

[0017] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the at least one gripping point is at least one recess. Advantageously, this recess is designed so that it allows for easy gripping and lifting of the platform module. The platform module can comprise a single continuous recess or several, in particular two, recesses arranged side by side. Furthermore, a recess has the advantage of not protruding, thus neither taking up additional space nor posing a tripping hazard.

[0018] To ensure easy handling of the individual platform modules, the overall height of a platform module should not exceed a practical range. Platform structures that are too high are generally difficult to move, restrict visibility, and complicate space-saving storage. Therefore, it is advantageous to limit the number of fixed steps integrated into a module accordingly. In a preferred embodiment, the platform module has a maximum of three fixed steps. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the platform module has two fixed steps.

[0019] According to a further preferred embodiment, a step element can be removablely arranged between two superimposed fixed steps of the platform module. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the removable arrangement of a step element between two superimposed fixed steps creates an additional removable step. This further increases the functionality and flexibility of the platform module, as the number of steps can be easily varied and adapted to the specific situation as needed. Moreover, with such an increase in the functional number of steps, the overall height of the platform module remains unchanged, thus ensuring its continued ease of handling.

[0020] The removable step element is dimensioned to match the dimensions of the platform module. The stacked fixed steps of the platform module preferably have a height ratio of 1:1 to 1.5:1 relative to each other. If an additional removable step is provided, this height ratio applies to all existing functional steps, including the removable step. The height of the functional steps can be adapted to their intended use. For use by small children, particularly in kindergartens, the preferred step height is between 10 and 30 cm, preferably 20 cm. For children and teenagers, a step height of 20 to 50 cm is recommended, preferably 30 to 40 cm. For adults, a step height of 30 to 60 cm is recommended, preferably 40 to 50 cm.

[0021] The same applies to the depth-to-height ratio. The steps of the platform module, including any removable step, are preferably designed with a depth-to-height ratio of 1:1 to 1.5:1. A ratio in which the depth is greater than the height can be advantageous, as it makes it easier for a person sitting higher to rest their feet while another person sits on the step below. The preferred depth ratio between the steps is approximately 1:1 for all functional steps. These ratios can vary for different stacked steps or pairs of steps.

[0022] The removable step element is preferably designed in its overall shape and size to correspond to the base area of ​​the platform module and to be as flush as possible with the sides of the module without protruding. It preferably rests against the rear edge of a fixed step. With a closed end face, the removable step element can be positioned particularly securely and with greater stability.

[0023] Ideally, the removable step element should be sufficiently stable to withstand the stress of use as a step. Preferably, the step element should also be sufficiently flexible to allow for comfortable use as a seat.

[0024] Various materials are suitable for the removable step element, such as wood, wood-based materials, plastics, composite materials, or even upholstery materials. Preferably, the step element is an upholstered step.

[0025] In a further preferred embodiment, the pedestal module has at least one floor protector on its underside. This can be designed either as a continuous element along the corners and edges of the underside or as several individual elements at the corners and / or along the edges. Particularly preferably, several floor protectors are strategically placed at relevant contact points. The floor protectors protect the floor covering from damage and scratches when the pedestal module is set up and moved, and can ensure a secure, slip-resistant footing.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the platform module can be combined modularly with other platform modules to create platform landscapes, whereby the other platform modules can have similar or different base shapes. This allows for particularly flexible design and expansion of platform landscapes, which can be individually adapted in shape and size to different spatial conditions and requirements. In particular, a wide variety of arrangements and structures can be realized by combining different basic shapes – for example, rectangular and trapezoidal platform modules.

[0027] Various materials, such as wood-based materials, plastics, or composite materials, are suitable for the platform module. Preferably, a wood-based material, particularly plywood, is used for the platform module. Plywood is characterized by a good strength-to-weight ratio, high dimensional stability, and good workability. This allows for a stable platform module with a comparatively low weight, which proves particularly advantageous during transport.

[0028] A corresponding transport module can be used to facilitate the transport of the pedestal modules according to the invention. This should also enable safe and space-saving storage of the pedestal modules. Preferably, a system comprises at least one pedestal module according to the invention and at least one transport module.

[0029] In a preferred embodiment, the transport module has rollers and is designed such that at least one platform module can be stacked and moved on it. Particularly preferably, up to three platform modules can be stacked on one transport module. This makes it possible to transport several platform modules simultaneously and to quickly reposition the platform structure as needed or to store it in a space-saving manner.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment, one roller is positioned centrally at the bottom end face, while two further rollers are provided at the bottom in the rear corner regions of the side faces, resulting in a total of three rollers. In another preferred embodiment, the transport module has four rollers, with two rollers arranged at the bottom in the front corner regions and two at the bottom in the rear corner regions.

[0031] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the body of the transport module corresponds to the body of the pedestal module. The body refers to the supporting structure or basic assembly of the respective module, which determines its basic shape and dimensions. Thus, in this embodiment, the transport module has the same basic shape and dimensions as the pedestal module; the only difference is that the transport module is additionally equipped with casters. This is particularly advantageous because it allows the pedestal modules to be stacked on top of modules of the same dimensions, ensuring secure stacking on the transport module.

[0032] Furthermore, the system is preferably designed such that, in its unstacked state, the at least one platform module and the at least one transport module can be combined modularly to create a platform landscape. This is particularly advantageous because the transport module does not remain unused in the room but can be functionally integrated into the platform landscape. The transport module's casters are expediently designed so that, if necessary, the transport module can be lowered onto the floor with its underside facing down, allowing it to be seamlessly integrated into the platform landscape.

[0033] Preferably, the transport module's casters are foldable. This ensures the transport module is stable when the casters are folded and can be integrated into the platform at the same height as other modules, while remaining mobile when unfolded. It is also conceivable to equip the casters, or at least some of them, with a locking mechanism to fix the transport module in a desired position, particularly during temporary storage.

[0034] As long as modules are stacked on the transport module, the casters should preferably remain extended. This ensures that the transport module, along with the stacked platform modules, can be moved at any time and conveniently transported to the desired location for use or storage without having to rearrange the individual modules. Ideally, the casters should only be folded in once the modules have been removed, or the transport module has become part of the platform structure, to ensure a secure and flush position.

[0035] It should be noted that singular or plural forms are used generically in the description of the various elements and do not aim to limit the invention unless a specific number of certain elements is explicitly stated.

[0036] The invention is explained in more detail using the attached figures as examples. They show: Fig. 1 Oblique view of a pedestal module; Fig. 2 Top view of a pedestal module; Fig. 3 stacks of pedestal modules; Fig. 4 podium landscape made of podium modules with the same base area; Fig. 5 podium landscape made of podium modules with different base areas; Fig. 6 Oblique view of a transport module from the rear; and Fig. 7 Oblique view of a transport module with platform modules stacked on it from the rear.

[0037] Fig. Figure 1 shows an oblique view of a platform module 1 with a trapezoidal base. The platform module 1 has two fixed steps 2, with both the treads of the fixed steps 2 and their end faces 5 being largely closed. Two oval recesses 6 are located in the area of ​​the lower end face 5. The side surface 3 of the module 1 is also predominantly closed and features a keyhole-shaped connecting opening 4 at each of the transitions between the stair-like slope and the two essentially straight edges. A step element 7 is positioned between the two fixed steps 2, lying flush with the platform module 1 and terminating laterally with it. The step element 7 forms an additional removable step. The use of the step element 7 results in a total of three functional steps, all of essentially the same height.Floor protectors 8 are attached as several individual elements along the edges of the underside of the pedestal module 1.

[0038] Fig. Figure 2 shows a top view of the platform module 1, where the trapezoidal base is particularly clearly visible. The platform module 1 comprises three fixed steps 2. The depth of the steps is essentially the same.

[0039] Fig. Figure 3 shows a stack of four pedestal modules 1 in side view. The individual pedestal modules 1 essentially correspond to those shown in Fig. The embodiment shown in Figure 1 is shown without an additional step element 7. Therefore, only two fixed steps 2 are present. The platform modules 1 are stacked on top of each other via their open back and undersides. The stacked platform modules 1 are essentially in positive contact. The lower fixed step 2 has approximately twice the depth of the upper fixed step 2.

[0040] Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows platform landscapes composed of several platform modules 1. In Fig. 4. Several pedestal modules 1 with trapezoidal base areas are arranged so that together they form approximately a quarter circle. In Fig. Five platform modules with trapezoidal and rectangular bases are combined. The resulting platform landscape differs from... Fig. 4 a less pronounced angle of curvature.

[0041] Fig. Figure 6 shows a single transport module 9 in a rear oblique view. The body of the transport module 9 – comprising two fixed steps 2, side surfaces 3, several connecting openings 4, and two adjacent recesses 6 on the front face 5 – corresponds to the body of the platform module 1 in Fig. 1. In contrast to the pedestal module 1, the transport module 9 is additionally equipped with casters 10. One caster 10 is located centrally below the recesses 6 on the lower end face 5, and two further casters 10 are located at the rear, lower corners of the side surfaces 3, so that there are a total of three casters 10.

[0042] Fig. Figure 7 shows an oblique view of the transport module 9 with three platform modules 1 stacked on it, from the rear. As in Fig. The individual modules 1 and 9 are stacked on top of each other in a form-fitting manner. Only the rollers 10 of transport module 9 are in contact with the floor, while the bodies of the pedestal modules 1 and transport module 9 themselves do not have direct contact with the floor. The step elements 7 have been removed from the respective modules 1 and 9 and positioned on the uppermost pedestal module 1 of the stack. Reference symbol list 1 pedestal module 2 Fixed level 3 side surface 4 connecting openings 5 Front 6 recess 7-step element 8 floor protectors 9 Transport module 10 rolls

Claims

[1] Platform module (1) for constructing multi-level platform landscapes, wherein the platform module (1) has a trapezoidal base and at least two fixed steps (2), characterized by , that the pedestal module (1) can be stacked on top of at least one other, similar pedestal module (1). [2] Platform module (1) according to claim 1, characterized by that the platform module (1) has at least one connecting opening (4) on at least one side surface (3). [3] Platform module (1) according to claim 2, characterized by , that at least one connecting opening (4) is keyhole-shaped. [4] Platform module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the platform module (1) has at least one gripping point on one end face (5). [5] Platform module (1) according to claim 4, characterized by , that at least one gripping point is at least one recess (6). [6] Platform module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the platform module (1) has two fixed steps (2). [7] Platform module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that by arranging a step element (7) between two superimposed fixed steps (2) an additional removable step is formed. [8] Platform module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the platform module (1) has at least one floor protector (8) on its underside. [9] Platform module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that it can be combined modularly with other platform modules (1) to form platform landscapes, wherein the other platform modules (1) have similar or different base shapes. [10] System comprising at least one pedestal module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 and at least one transport module (9), characterized by, that the transport module (9) has rollers (10) and enables at least one pedestal module (1) to be stacked and moved on it. [11] System according to claim 10, characterized by , that up to three pedestal modules (1) can be stacked on one transport module (9). [12] System according to claim 10 or 11, characterized by , that the body of the transport module (9) corresponds to the body of the pedestal module (1). [13] System according to any one of claims 10 to 12, characterized by , that in the unstacked state the at least one pedestal module (1) and the at least one transport module (9) can be combined modularly to form a pedestal landscape. [14] System according to any one of claims 10 to 13, characterized by , that the rollers (10) of the transport module (9) can be folded in and out.

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