A retractable and extendable support structure

Abstract

The invention is a support structure (300) that comprises at least two chain structures: at least one receiving chain structure (301a) and at least one support chain structure (301 b). The receiving chain structure comprises a multitude of receiving segments (302a) and the support chain structure comprises a multitude of supporting segments (302b). The receiving segments comprise at least one receiving aperture (310), and the supporting segments comprise at least two support extensions (311a). At least one support extension is configured to be inserted into the receiving aperture when interlocking the receiving chain structure and the support chain structure. The receiving segments and the supporting segments of adjacent chain structures are configured in such a way that the side edges of the segments of one chain structure extend over one surface of the segments of another chain structure.

Description

[0001] A retractable and extendable support structure

[0002] The invention relates to a retractable and extendable support structure, comprising at least two chain structures that are configured to interlock with each other and to detach from each other, and when they interlock, the chain structures form a rigid extension part for support purposes, and the extension part comprises an end of the extension part, and the chain structures comprise interconnected segments, and the segments comprise two side edges of the segments, first edges of the segments and second edges of the segments, and the first edge of the segment faces the end of the extension part and second edge of the segment faces away from the end of the extension part when the chains are interlocked, and the side edges of the segments are between the first edge of the segment and the second edge of the segment, and when the chain structures are interlocked, the first edges of the segments of the adjacent chain structures are on different level.

[0003] BACKGROUND

[0004] Collapsible and extendable columns or other tower-like constructs that employ linktype structures that can be interlinked to form a rigid support structure are known in the art. Many kinds of extendable structures have useful applications in many different areas. These can be for example antennas, supports for platforms for replacing ladders and such, elevators, aerial masts and machinery booms. What they have common is that they comprise continuous strips or chain-like arrangements. The strips have teeth on their vertical sides and those strips are fixed to each other by their sides in order to form a column that can be collapsed or extended. The chain-like arrangements are fixed to each other with hooks, pins or hinge arrangements. Both ways are, however, quite complicated and are thus both expensive and prone to failure. Known-art support structures are quite hard to apply on a small scale, for example, for furniture or interior applications. Due to their complicated structure, the parts of the support structures would become small and fragile when scaled down.

[0005] Patent publication US2806562 presents a flat structure comprising several elements that can be folded as a prismatic structure. At least three of the elements are interconnected at their adjacent edges by hinge pins to provide rigidity for the prismatic structure. The flat form of the structure can be rolled up for storage. The publication states that the prismatic structure can be used as a mast or crane boom. The whole arrangement is quite complicated and slow to deploy because the hinge pins need to be applied manually. Thus, it is hard to use in small applications. Patent publication US8303143 presents a portable light tower comprising a base and a retractable mast. The base includes a housing that defines a base interior and an exterior. A plurality of mast segments are connected to each other, with each mast segment being arrangeable into a storage configuration or a use configuration. Each individual mast segment is composed of three interlocking planar members: a backpiece and two first sidepieces. In the storage configuration, each of the plurality of mast segments is pivotally connected to an adjacent mast segment, such that the mast segments can be rolled and folded for efficient storage within the base interior. In the use configuration, each of the plurality of mast segments is fixedly connected to an adjacent mast segment, such that the mast segments can be extended to define a substantially rigid mast that extends above the base on the exterior. The cross-section of the mast is a triangle. At two corners of the mast are two vertical cables that are used to tension the extended mast and at the third corner is a third cable to keep the sidepieces interlocked when the mast is extended and to tension the extended mast along with the two other cables. However, achieving sufficient rigidity for the mast using cables is unreliable and the placement of the segments and sidepieces must be very accurate. The extending process of the mast is complicated and the triangular shape of the mast and its other features make it hard to deploy in different usage scenarios.

[0006] Patent publication US20160333914 presents an extendable structure comprising chains of interlocking components. The chains interlock with each other to form the sides of the structure. However, the interlocking components are such that vertical connections between chains are not entirely rigid, i.e. the components can move in relation to each other. These movements increase in number when the structure is extended further and further so the whole structure will wobble more and more. In order to minimize the wobbling, the publication advises to use interlocking components that are quite thick in relation to the cross-section of the structure. This, however, increases the total weight of the structure, and storing of the interlocking components when rectracting the structure becomes more difficult. This means that there is a strict limitation to the length of the structure.

[0007] There is a clear need for a simple and durable structure that can be used for various in-door applications.

[0008] BRIEF DESCRIPTION

[0009] The object of the invention is a solution that can significantly reduce the disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art. In particular, the object of the invention is a solution where a support structure is provided that is durable but still easy to collapse and extend.

[0010] The objects of the invention are attained with a device that is characterised by what is stated in the independent patent claim. Some advantageous embodiments of the invention are disclosed in the dependent claims.

[0011] The invention is a support structure that comprises at least two chain structures: at least one receiving chain structure and at least one support chain structure. The receiving chain structure comprises a multitude of receiving segments and the support chain structure comprises a multitude of supporting segments. The receiving segments comprise at least one receiving aperture, and the supporting segments comprise at least two support extensions. At least one support extension is configured to be inserted into the receiving aperture when interlocking the receiving chain structure and the support chain structure. The receiving segments and the supporting segments of adjacent chain structures are configured in such a way that the side edges of the segments of one chain structure extend over one surface of the segments of another chain structure.

[0012] When reference is made in the text to the upper or the lower parts or respective directions such as down or up, a situation is described in which the support structure according to the invention is in use and the extension part is moving vertically. However, it must be noted that the directions used here are exemplary only and serve to clarify the functionality of the invention further.

[0013] In one embodiment of the invention, there is a retractable and extendable support structure, comprising at least two chain structures configured to interlock with each other and to detach from each other, and when they interlock, the chain structures form a rigid extension part for support purposes. The extension part comprises an end of the extension part, and the chain structures comprise interconnected segments. The segments comprise two side edges of the segments, first edges of the segments and second edges of the segments. The first edge of the segment faces the end of the extension part and second edge of the segment faces away from the end of the extension part when the chains are interlocked. The side edges of the segments are located between the first edge of the segment and the second edge of the segment. When the chain structures are interlocked, the first edges of the segments of the adjacent chain structures are on a different level. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the chain structures comprise at least one receiving chain structure and at least one support chain structure. The receiving chain structure comprises a multitude of receiving segments and the support chain structure comprises a multitude of supporting segments. The receiving segments and the supporting segments are rectangular structures having two parallel opposing surfaces, a first surface and a second surface. The receiving segments comprise at least one receiving aperture. The supporting segments comprise at least two support extensions, and at least one support extension is configured to be inserted into the receiving aperture when interlocking the receiving chain structure and the support chain structure.

[0014] In one embodiment of the support structure, the receiving apertures and the support extensions are configured to interlock with each other when the segments of adjacent chain structures are rotated in parallel to the longitudinal axis of the extension part, i.e. when the orientation of the segments of adjacent chain structures is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the extension part.

[0015] In a second embodiment of the support structure, the heights of the receiving segments and the supporting segments, i.e. the distance between the first edge of the segment and the second edge of the segment, are equal.

[0016] In a third embodiment of the support structure, the receiving segments and the supporting segments of adjacent chain structures are configured in such a way that the side edges of the segments of one chain structure extend over one surface of the segments of another chain structure. This means that the side edge of the segment is not at the same level as the surfaces of the adjacent segment.

[0017] In a fourth embodiment of the support structure, the second surfaces of the segments that form one chain structure are fixed onto a flexible strip arrangement. This strip arrangement can be, for example, paper, cardboard, cloth, plastic, leather, some composite material or other suitable material.

[0018] In a fifth embodiment of the support structure, the receiving apertures extend through the receiving segments.

[0019] In a sixth embodiment of the support structure, the support structure comprises two chain structures, one supporting chain structure and one receiving chain structure, and the supporting segments comprise two support extensions: a first support extension and a second support extension on the first surface, and the first support extension comprises a barrier in the longitudinal direction of the extension part when the chain structures are interlocked and a protrusion extending from the barrier and the protrusion is parallel to the first surface and the protrusion is configured to fit the receiving aperture of the receiving segment when the chain structures are interlocked, and the second support extension is a wedge-like structure rising from the first surface in such a way that the slope of the wedge-like structure is closest to the first edge, and the receiving chain structure is located between the first support extension and the second support extension.

[0020] In a seventh embodiment of the support structure, the support structure comprises three chain structures, one receiving chain structure and two supporting chain structures, and the receiving chain structure is located between the supporting chain structures, and the receiving segments comprise two receiving apertures, and the supporting segments comprise two support extensions: a first support extension and a second support extension on the first surface, and the first support extension comprises a barrier in the longitudinal direction of the extension part when the chain structures are interlocked and a protrusion extending from the barrier and the protrusion is parallel to the first surface and the protrusion is configured to fit the receiving aperture of the receiving segment when the chain structures are interlocked, and the second support extension is a wedge-like structure rising towards the centre of the supporting segment, and the receiving chain structure is between the first support extension and the second support extension.

[0021] In an eighth embodiment of the support structure, the wedge-like structure of the second support extension has an edge line where the distance between the surface of the second support extension and the first surface is longest, and when the chain structure is interlocked, the second edge of the receiving segment is at the same level as the edge line.

[0022] In a ninth embodiment of the support structure, the support structure comprises four chain structures, two receiving chain structure and two supporting chain structures, and the receiving chain structures are located on opposing sides of the extension part, and the supporting chain structures are located on opposing sides of the extension part.

[0023] In a tenth embodiment of the support structure, the receiving segment comprise two receiving apertures and the supporting segment comprise four support extensions, and the support extensions are positioned in such a way that there are two support extensions at one side edge of the supporting segment and two support extensions at another side edge of the supporting segment. In an eleventh embodiment of the support structure, the two support extensions located at one side edge of the supporting segment and two support extensions located at another side edge of the supporting segment are parallel to the surfaces of the supporting segment, and the support extensions at one side edge of the supporting segment are configured to fit into the receiving apertures of two consecutive receiving segments, and the support extensions located at another side edge of the supporting segment are configured to fit into the receiving apertures of two consecutive receiving segments when the chain structures are interlocked.

[0024] In a twelfth embodiment of the support structure, the receiving aperture comprises a part where the receiving aperture is wider than the support extension in order to allow the support extension to enter the receiving aperture when the chain structures are being interlocked, i.e. the segments of the adjacent chain structures are moving in relation to each other, and the receiving aperture comprises a support extension recess for the support extension and the support extension is positioned inside the support extension recess when the chain structures are interlocked.

[0025] In a thirteenth embodiment of the support structure, the segments on opposite sides of the extension part are in the same phase.

[0026] In a fourteenth embodiment of the support structure, the segments of the adjacent interlocked chain structures are perpendicular to each other.

[0027] It is an advantage of the invention that it provides an extendable and retractable support structure that is both durable and easy to use and that it suits many use cases. The invention allows the use of support structures that can be oriented in several ways. For example, the support structure can extend sideways.

[0028] The invention makes it possible to manufacture a support structure with different extendable shapes, for example poles, towers and flat surfaces. Also, the mechanism that joins the adjacent sides of the structure together provides a tighter interconnection between the parts of the structure than known techniques. The joining mechanism also makes it possible to use flat side segments. The joining mechanism also increases the surface area of adjacent segments that come in contact with each other and thus improves the stability of the structure.

[0029] One advantage of the invention is that it can be manually operated or it can be motorized. The invention produces a support structure that has less complex parts than known- art extendable structures, so that it is easier to manufacture and to maintain than devices according to known techniques.

[0030] Another advantage of the invention is that it is quite easy to adjust to different heights in applications such as lamps, signs or guide posts.

[0031] It is a further advantage of the invention that it can be easily optimized for different situations, and its scalability is good. Also, it is space-saving.

[0032] DESCRIPTIONS OF THE FIGURES

[0033] In the following, the invention is described in detail. The description refers to the accompanying drawings, in which

[0034] Figure 1 shows an example of a support structure according to an embodiment,

[0035] Figure 2 shows a second example of a support structure according to an embodiment,

[0036] Figure 3 shows a third example of a support structure according to an embodiment,

[0037] Figure 4 shows the support structure presented in Figure 3,

[0038] Figure 5 shows the support structure presented in Figure 3,

[0039] Figure 6 shows the support structure presented in Figure 3, and

[0040] Figure 7 shows an example of a receiving chain, and

[0041] Figure 8 shows the support structure presented in Figure 2.

[0042] DETAILED DESCRIPTIONS OF THE FIGURES

[0043] The embodiments in the following description are given as examples only and someone skilled in the art can carry out the basic idea of the invention also in some other way than what is described in the description. Though the description may refer to a certain embodiment or embodiments in several places, this does not mean that the reference would be directed towards only one described embodiment or that the described characteristic would be usable only in one described embodiment. The individual characteristics of two or more embodiments may be combined and new embodiments of the invention may thus be provided.

[0044] Figure 1 shows a simplified embodiment of a support structure 100. Some parts are left out from the figure to make the functioning of the support structure clearer. The support structure comprises two chain structures: a receiving chain structure 101a and a supporting chain structure 101b. The chain structures comprise interconnected segments. The receiving chain structure comprises a multitude of receiving segments 102a and the supporting chain structure comprises a multitude of supporting segments 102b. The chain structures are configured to interlock with each other to form a rigid extension part for support purposes. The chain structures are also configured to detach from each other for rectracting the extension part. The extension part comprises an end of the extension part, i.e. the outer end of the extension part. By the phrase ‘rigid’ it is meant that the support structure does not essentially bend.

[0045] The extension part is configured to extend from a base or some other storage compartment and to retract into said storage compartment. The storage compartment contains the chain structures that are separate. The extension part can resemble a tower, a pole, a mast, a wall or a surface or similar structure, the height of which is adjustable by extending or retracting it. The end of the extension part comprises an arrangement that prevents the chain structures from separating accidentantly when the extension part is retracted and thus it serves as a stopping element. In some embodiments, the extension part comprises a part in which the chain structures are fixed to each other, i.e. they do not detach from each other.

[0046] The segments 102a, 102b are plate-like rectangular bodies. They comprise two side edges 103 of the segments, first edges 104 of the segments and second edges 105 of the segments. The side edges of the segments are located between the first edge of the segment and the second edge of the segment. The side edges are perpendicular to the first edge and the second edge. The segments are positioned in the chain structures in such a way that when the chain structures form the extension part, the first edges of the segments face the end of the extension part and the second edges of the segments face away from the end of the extension part. The segments further comprise a first surface 108 and a second surface 109 (i.e. the faces of the segments), and said surfaces are opposite to each other. The height of the surface is the length of the side edge, and the length of the surface is the length of the first or the second edge. The distance between the first surface and the second surface represents the thickness of the segment. The segments have a first edge surface, a second edge surface, and two side edge surfaces. In this embodiment, these surfaces are straight, but there are embodiments where these surfaces have various shapes. These surfaces limit the first surface and the second surface. It must be noted that these features are applicable both to the receiving segments 102a and the supporting segments 102b.

[0047] The segments 102a, 102b are essentially flat, i.e. the thickness (the distance between the first surface 108 and the second surface 109) is approximately constant. Also, the thickness of the segment is significantly less than the length of the segment (the distance between the side edges 103). Also, the opposing surfaces (the first surface and the second surface) of the segment are parallel. In some embodiments, the side edges of the receiving segment are straight and parallel to each other. In some embodiments, the side edges of the supporting segment are straight and parallel to each other.

[0048] The heights of the segments 103, i.e. the distance between the first edge 104 and the second edge 105, are identical on all of the segments involved in forming the extendable part of the extension part or on almost all segments. The uppermost segments forming the outer end of the extension part may be an exception to that rule. The lengths of the receiving segments 102a and the supporting segments 102b may be dissimilar. In many embodiments, the lengths of the segments in the same chain structure are equal, but there are embodiments, where the lengths of the segments in the same chain structure vary. The segments have a mid-line. The midline is a line that is parallel to the first edge and the second edge and where the distances to said edges are equal.

[0049] The chain structures 101a, 101b are formed by segments that are positioned in such a way that on the consecutive segments the first edge 104 of one segment faces the second edge 105 of the next segment. Also, if the consecutive segments have the same orientation, the first surfaces 108 and the second surfaces of the segments are facing the same direction. The chain structure flexes in relation to the neighbouring segments. The flexing between the consecutive segments has a flexing axis that is parallel to the first and the second edges of the consecutive segments. The segments of a chain structure are interconnected with a flexible strip arrangement (not marked in the figure) that is fixed to all of the segments belonging to the chain structure. In this embodiment the flexible strip arrangement is fixed to the second surfaces 109 of the segments. The flexible strip arrangement can be one single continuous strip extending over all the side segments of the chain structure or it can comprise several strips. In some embodiments, the strip arrangement comprises a strip connecting each consecutive segments pair, i.e. the strip is placed in such a way that it interconnects the first edge of one segment and the second edge of the next segment. The strip arrangement is made of some flexible material, for example plastic, silicone, cardboard, leather or similar. Naturally, a hinge arrangement can be used instead of the strip arrangement or both types of arrangements can be used simultaneously. The chain structure can be folded, rolled up or otherwise contracted for space-saving purposes.

[0050] The receiving segment 102a comprises a receiving aperture 110. The body of the receiving segment surrounds the receiving aperture. In this embodiment, the receiving aperture extends from the first surface 108 to the second surface 109, i.e. the aperture pierces the receiving segment. In some embodiments, the receiving aperture does not extend through the receiving segment.

[0051] The supporting segment 102b comprises a support extension arrangement on the first surface 108. The support extension arrangement comprises in this embodiment a first support extension 111a, a second support extension 111b and a protrusion 111c. The first support extension is a barrier extending from the first edge 104 to the second edge 105. In this embodiment, the barrier is at the side edge 103. The barrier is in the longitudinal direction of the extension part when the chain structures 101a and 101b are interlocked. The protrusion is positioned in such a way that it extends from the barrier and the protrusion is parallel to the first surface 108. The protrusion is separated from the first surface, i.e. there is room between the protrusion and the first surface. In this embodiment, the protrusion is at the second edge 105, i.e. some part of the protrusion is at the same level as the second edge. The protrusion is configured to fit the receiving aperture 110 when the chain structures are interlocked. In this embodiment, the receiving aperture and the cross-section of the protrusion are shaped similarly and they share a rectangular shape. In this embodiment, the second support extension is a wedge-like structure that rises upwards when the mid-line of the supporting segment 102b is closed, i.e. the wedge-like structure is sloping upwards from the first surface 108. The slope of the wedge-like structure is closest to the first surface at the first edge 104. The wedgelike structure is an elongated rectangular body and it has longitudinal axis parallel to the side edge 103 and it has an end of the wedge-like structure, where the slope of the the wedge-like structure is furthest from the first surface. Between the second support extension and the barrier is a gap that is parallel to the barrier and the side edge of the receiving segment when the chain structures are interconnected. The width of the gap is slightly larger that the thickness of the receiving segment 102a.

[0052] When the extension part is extended, i.e. the chain structures are interlocking, the chain structures 101a, 101b extend out of the storage compartment. The segments of the chain structure rotate towards the longitudinal direction of the extension part. This orientation of the segment means that the first surface 108 and the second surface 109 are in the longitudinal direction of the extension part. In this process, one side edge 103 of one segment rotates closer to the side edges of the two consecutive segments of the adjacent chain structure.

[0053] The support extension arrangement on the supporting segment 102b comprises a part that is configured to fit into the receiving aperture 110. In the embodiment that Figure 1 is presenting this is the protrusion 111c. The support extension arrangement and the receiving aperture are configured in a such way that when adjacent chain structures are approaching each other, and more precisely the segments of the adjacent chain structures are approaching each other, the protrusion of one supporting segment 102b is approaching the receiving aperture 110 of one receiving segment 102a. At the same time, the side edge 103 of said receiving segment is settling into the gap between the first support extension 111a and the second support extension 111 b (the barrier and the wedge-like structure) of another supporting segment. The slope of the wedge-like structure guides the rotating receiving segment. When the chain structures have interlocked, the edge of the wedge-like structure and the second edge 105 of the receiving segment 102a are at the same level. This means that the interconnected receiving chain structure 101a and the supporting chain structure 101b and in different phases, i.e. the first edges 104 and the second edges 105 of the segments of the adjacent chain structures are at different levels.

[0054] The detaching of the chain structures is performed in the opposite way of interconnecting the chain structures.

[0055] When the receiving chain structure 101a and the supporting chain structure 101b are interconnected, they are perpendicular to each other. The extension part forms a shape that has a cross-section that is roughly L-shaped. The receiving segments and the supporting segments of adjacent chain structures are configured in such a way that the side edges of segments of one chain structure extend over one surface of the segments of another chain structure, i.e. the side edge 105 of the segment is not at the same level as the surfaces of the adjacent segment. In the embodiment of Figure 1 the one side edge 103 of the supporting segment 102b extends over the first surface 108 of the receiving segment 102a. This feature makes the corner of the extension part stronger compared to a situation where the side edges of adjacent chain structures are at the same level. It must be noted that there are embodiments where the cross-section of the extension part resembles more a T- than an L-shape. The positioning of the support extension arrangement is not limited to being near the side edge.

[0056] In some embodiments the support structure 100 comprises a locking arrangement that is configured to lock the extension part in some position and the locking arrangement is configured to prevent the extension part from extending or retracting when the locking arrangement is in a locking position. When the locking arrangement is released from the locking position, the extension part can once again be moved. The locking arrangement can be implemented in many ways. It can comprise a pin, a hook, a shaft arrangement or similar.

[0057] Figure 2 shows a simplified embodiment of a support structure 200. The support structure comprises three chain structures: a receiving chain structure 201a and two supporting chain structures 201 b. The chain structures comprise interconnected segments. The receiving chain structure comprises a multitude of receiving segments 202a and the supporting chain structure comprise a multitude of supporting segments 202b. The chain structures are configured to interlock with each other to form a rigid extension part 206 for support purposes. The extension part comprises an end of the extension part 207, i.e. the outer end of the extension part. In this Figure the extension part is pointing downwards. It must be noted that the direction of the extension part shown here is exemplary only.

[0058] The receiving chain structure 201a comprises a multitude of receiving segments 202a and the supporting chain structures 201 b comprise a multitude of supporting segments 202b. The supporting chain structures are located at the opposing sides of the receiving chain structure. The cross-section of the support structure is roughly H-shaped. In this embodiment, the supporting segments of the opposing supporting chain structures are mirror images of each other.

[0059] The segments 202a, 202b are plate-like rectangular bodies. They comprise two side edges 203 of the segments, first edges 204 of the segments and second edges 205 of the segments. The edges of the segments are positioned similarly as was described before.

[0060] The receiving segment 202a comprises two receiving apertures 210. The body of the receiving segment surrounds the receiving aperture. In this embodiment, the receiving aperture pierces the receiving segment. The supporting segment 202b comprises a support extension arrangement on the surface of the supporting segment. The support extension arrangement comprises in this embodiment a first support extension 211a, a second support extension 211 b and a protrusion 211c.

[0061] The first support extension is a barrier extending from the first edge 204 to the second edge 205 of the supporting segment. In this embodiment, the barrier is at one side edge 203 and the second support extension is at another side edge. The barrier is in the longitudinal direction of the extension part 206 when the chain structures 201a, 201 b are interlocked. The protrusion is positioned in such a way that it extends from the barrier and the protrusion is parallel to the surface of the supporting segment. The protrusion is separated from the surface of the supporting segment, i.e. there is room between the protrusion and the surface. In this embodiment, the protursion is at the second edge 205, i.e. some part of the protrusion is at the same level as the second edge. The protrusion is configured to fit into the receiving aperture 110 when the chain structures are interlocked.

[0062] Connecting the receiving chain structure 201a to both supporting chain structures 201b is practically similar to the process depicted in Figure 1. Interlocking the supporting chain structures with the receiving chain structure occurs simultaneously at the both side edges 103 of the receiving segment 202a.

[0063] In this embodiment, the lengths of the supporting segments 202b (the distance between the side edges 203 of the supporting segment), are significally shorter than the lenghts of the receiving segments 202a. In some embodiments, the lengths of the supporting segments are equal to or more than the lenghts of the receiving segments. In some embodiments, the lengths of the supporting segments of the opposing supporting chain structures 201b are not equal.

[0064] Figure 8 shows the support structure 200 where flexible strip arrangements 813 connects segments of the supporting chain structures 201b and the receiving chain structure 201a. In this embodiment the flexible strip arrangements are continuous strips extending over several consecutive segments of the chain structure. Figures 3, 4, 5 and 6 show a simplified embodiment of a support structure 300. Figures show the support structure from different directions.

[0065] The support structure 300 comprises four chain structures: two receiving chain structures 301a and two supporting chain structures 301 b. The chain structures comprise interconnected segments. The receiving chain structures comprise a multitude of receiving segments 302a and the supporting chain structures comprise a multitude of supporting segments 302b. The chain structures are configured to interlock with each other to form a rigid extension part 306 for support purposes. The extension part comprise an end of the extension part 307. The end of the extension part comprise a rectangular plate that connects the chain structures and prevents the chain structures from separating accidentally.

[0066] The segments 302a, 302b are plate-like rectangular bodies. They comprise two side edges 303 of the segments, first edges 304 of the segments and second edges 305 of the segments. The segments further comprise a first surface 308 and a second surface 309 (i.e. the faces of the segments), and said surfaces are opposite to each other. The segments have a first edge surface, a second edge surface, and two side edge surfaces. The consecutive segments of the chain structure are connected to to each other in such a way that the first edge of one segment is connected to second edge of another segment. In this embodiment, connecting the segments is performed in such a way that the chain structure flexes in the direction of second surfaces of the segments of the chain structure. This means that the joining arrangement, for example, some hinge arrangement, of the segments is placed on the second surfaces. In some embodiments, the chain structure is configured to allow some flexing in the direction of the first surfaces. This is achieved, for example, by shaping the first edge surface and the second edge surface of consecutive segments in such a way that the chain structure may flex also in the direction of the first surface. In some embodiments, this is achieved by shaping the edge surfaces so as to have opposite slopes. For example, the first edge surface is sloping away from the end of the extension part and the second edge surface is sloping towards the end of the extension. When these edge surfaces are held against each other, the consecutive segments in the chain structure are flexing in the direction of the first surfaces.

[0067] In this embodiment, the lengths of the receiving segments 302a are longer than the lengths of the supporting segments 302b. This means that the receiving chain structures are 301a wider than the supporting chain structures 301b. It must be noted that these can be changed in different embodiments. The receiving segments 302a comprise two receiving apertures 310. In this embodiment, the receiving apertures are at the ends of the receiving segment, one receiving aperture is near one side edge 303 and another receiving aperture is near another side edge.

[0068] The supporting segments 302b that jointly forms the extension part 306 comprise four support extensions 311a. Supporting segments at or near the end 307 of the extension part may be an exception to that. The closest two supporting segments at the end of the extension part in the embodiment presented in Figures 3, 4, 5 and 6 comprise two support extensions. The support extensions are located at the side edges 303 of the supporting segments in such a way that there are two support extensions at one side edge and two support extension at another side edge. The support extension is parallel to the first edge 304 and to the second edge 305 of the supporting segment. The support extension rises above the side edge surface. In this embodiment, the support extensions are positioned at the levels of the first edge and the second edge, i.e. the support extensions are located at the corners of the supporting segment.

[0069] The support extensions 311a at one side edge 303 of the supporting segment 302b are configured to fit into the receiving apertures 310 of two consecutive receiving segments, and the support extensions at another side edge of the supporting segment are configured to fit into the receiving apertures of two consecutive receiving segments 302a when chain structures 301a, 301b are interlocked.

[0070] In this embodiment, the receiving aperture 310 comprises a part where the receiving aperture is wider than the support extension 311a in order to allow the support extension to move inside the receiving aperture when the chain structures 301a, 301b are being interlock, i.e. the segments of the adjacent chain structures are moving in relation to each other. In this embodiment, the wider part is shaped like a segment of a circle, and more particularly, as a quarter of a circle. The receiving aperture comprises a support extension recess 312 for the support extension and the support extension is positioned in the support extension recess when the chain structures are interlocked. The cross-section of the support extension recess is shaped similarly as the cross-section of the support extension. It must be noted that the support extension recess is wider than the support extension, but is shaped such that the support extension does not move when the chain structures are interconnected. In this embodiment, the support extension recess 312 is positioned nearer to the first edge 304 than the rest of the receiving aperture 310 (the wider part). The receiving aperture comprises one side that is parallel to the side edge 303 and one side that is parallel to the first edge 304. The curving side of the receiving aperture connects said straight sides. The support extension recess is at the point of the wider part segment. The curving side starts from near to the second edge 305 and curves away from the nearest side edge towards the first edge. The receiving aperture therefore roughly resembles a letter P, where the support extension recess represents the shaft of the P and the loop of the P is the wider part pointing towards the opposing side edge (i.e. another side edge). It must be noted that the shape of the receiving aperture described here is an example and it can be implemented in many ways. The receiving aperture may be, for example, a groove that guides the support extension. Also, the inner walls of the receiving aperture may be shaped to guide the support extension movements and thus the movements of the interlocking chain structures.

[0071] When the extension part 306 is extended, i.e. the receiving chain structure 301a and the supporting chain structure 301 b are to be interlocked, the chain structures extend out of the storage compartment. The segments 302a, 302b rotate towards the same direction as the sides of the extension part. In this process the side edges 303 of one segment rotates closer to two consecutive side segments of the adjacent chain structures. The support extensions 311a and the receiving apertures 310 are configured in a such way that when adjacent chain structures are approaching each other, and more precisely the segments of the adjacent chain structures are approaching each other, the support extensions at the side edge 303 of one supporting segment are approaching two receiving apertures of consecutive side segments at the adjacent receiving chain structure 301a when the segments are rotating into a orientation parallel to the logitudinal axis of the extension part. The support extension 311a at the first edge 304 of the supporting segment 302b is in the receiving aperture and slides towards the support extension recess 312. At the same time, the support extension at the second edge 305 of the supporting segment is entering into the wider part of the receiving aperture of the previous receiving segment 302a (the receiving segment that is further from the end 307 of the extension part 306 in the receiving chain structure). In other words, the support extensions at the first edge and at the second edge of the supporting segment are configured in such a way that when the side edges are pointing in the same direction as the longitudinal axis of the extension part, the support extensions are in the support extension recesses and two consecutive receiving segments of the adjacent receiving chain structure interlock. The same process repeats at another side edge of the supporting segment, and also applies to another supporting segment of another supporting chain structure. It must be noted that the process may be slightly different depending on the shape and design of the receiving apertures and the support extensions.

[0072] The interconnected chain structures 301a, 301 b form the sides of the extension part 306. The inside of the extension part is hollow. The segments on the adjacent sides of the extension part are in different phases, i.e. the first edges 304 and the second edges 305 of the segments on the adjacent sides of the extension part are at different heights from the end of the extension part. In this embodiment the crosssection of the extension part is rectangular. In this embodiment, the side segments on opposite sides of the extension part are in the same phase.

[0073] In this embodiment, the first surfaces 308 of the receiving segments 302a of the receiving chain structures 301a are towards the hollow inside of the extension part 306. In this embodiment, the second surfaces 309 of the supporting segments 302b of the supporting chain structures 301b are towards the hollow inside of the extension part. The inside walls of the extension part are therefore formed by the first surfaces of the receiving segments and the second surfaces of the supporting segments. This means that the supporting chain structures are rolled out from the area defined by the cross-section of the extension part. For example, if the support structure 300 is vertical and the end 307 of the extension part 306 is at the highest point of the support structure, the supporting chain structures may be stored below the extension part. This feature provides an efficient way of using the storage space for the chain structures.

[0074] There are embodiments, where the receiving segments 302a and the supporting segments 302b of adjacent chain structures are configured in such a way that the side edges 303 of segments of one chain structure extend over one surface of the segments of another chain structure. In this embodiment, the supporting chain structures 301b are positioned in such a way that the side edges 303 of the receiving chain structures 301a extend over the first surfaces 308 of the supporting segments 302b. This feature increases the rigidness of the support structure 300 without increasing the weight of the system.

[0075] In some embodiments, there are more than two supporting chain structures 301 b. They are positioned in such a way that when the chain structures are interconnected, they are inside the extension part 306, i.e. between other supporting chain structures. The support extensions and the receiving apertures may be similar to what was described before, but they may have also alternative designs.

[0076] The positioning of the support extensions 311a at the side edges 303 define the phase height difference between the adjacent sides of the extension part 306, i.e. the distance between the first edges 304 and the second edges 305 of the segments on adjacent sides of the extension part. The inventor has discovered that the said distance should be between 30% to 70% of the height of the segments. The difference in phase between adjacent sides provides rigidity to the extension part and improves the ease with which the chain-like structures interconnect. This feature is applicable other embodiments, too.

[0077] The outer end 307 of the extension part 306 in some embodiments comprises a platform or an arrangement for some application as can be seen Figures 4 and 5. In some embodiments the whole extension part 306 may serve to support some application. There is a binding arrangement that is configured to hold the ends of the sides of the extension part together. This is to maintain at least some part of the extension part of the support structure in a rigid form, i.e. the support structure 300 is configured in such a way that the chain structures forming the sides of the extension part do not separate completely. This makes it easier to start interconnecting the segments, because parts of the chain structures are already in the right position. This can be also achieved with a stopping arrangement that stops the extension part at some point when it is retracted. This point is the lowest point of the extension part and in that position there are at least some segments interconnected with the other segments (i.e. the receiving chain structures 301a and the supporting chain structures 301b). In some embodiments the support structure 300 comprises a locking arrangement that is configured to lock the extension part 306 in some position and the locking arrangement is configured to prevent the extension part from extending or retracting when the locking arrangement is in a locked position. When the locking arrangement is released from the locked position, the extension part can be moved again. The locking arrangement can be implemented in many ways. It can comprise a pin, a hook or a shaft arrangement or similar arrangement.

[0078] In some embodiments, the support structure 300 further comprises a guiding arrangement to guide the movements of the chain structures. The guiding arrangement is configured to guide the segments of the chain structures into the same direction as the sides of the extension part that the chain structure form. Also, they are configured to guide the chain structures to detach from the already interconnected chain structures when the extension part is retracted.

[0079] The purpose of using the guiding arrangement is to improve the retraction and extension processes of the extending part 306 and to prevent possible disruptive events when interconnecting or disengaging the segments of the chain structures. In some embodiments, it is possible to have guiding arrangements inside the storage compartment that comprise slope-like or groove-like modifications to the casing of the storage compartment, and these modifications improve the easy movement of the chain structures, i.e. guide them into position. In some embodiments, the segments or the the chain structures comprise springs or similar arrangements to help the chain structures to roll or fold when they are disengaged.

[0080] Figure 7 shows an example of the receiving chain 301a. The receiving chain is similar to what was presented in Figures 3 to 6. The receiving chain comprise a multitude of the receiving segments 302a. The receiving segments have the first edge 304 and the second edge 305 and two side edges.

[0081] To improve the rigidness of the extension part, the receiving segments segments 302a on this embodiment have on the second edge 305 of the segment a second edge gripping shape 313a, and on the first edge 304 of the segment there is a first edge gripping shape 313b. The first edge gripping shape is configured to interconnect with the second edge gripping shape, and the successive segments on the chain structure are configured to interconnect with both the first edge gripping shape and the second edge gripping shape. In this embodiment the gripping shapes are recesses (the second edge gripping shapes) and overhangs (the first edge gripping shapes). Advantageously these shapes are such that they do not require much guiding.

[0082] Some advantageous embodiments of the support structure according to the invention have been described above. The invention is however not limited to the embodiments described above, but the inventive idea can be applied in numerous ways within the scope of the claims.

Claims

Patent claims1. A retractable and extendable support structure (100; 200; 300), comprising at least two chain structures (101a, 101b; 201a, 201b; 301a, 301 b) configured to interlock with each other and to detach from each other, and when they interlock, the chain structures form a rigid extension part (206; 306) for support purposes, and the extension part comprises an end of the extension part (307), and the chain structures comprise interconnected segments (102a, 102b; 202a; 202b; 302a, 302b), and the segments comprise two side edges (103; 203; 303) of the segments, first edges (104; 204; 304) of the segments and second edges (105; 205; 305) of the segments, and the first edge of the segment faces the end of the extension part and second edge of the segment faces away from the end of the extension part when the chains are interlocked, and the side edges of the segments are located between the first edge of the segment and the second edge of the segment, characterised in that the segments are configured in such a way that when the chain structures are interlocked, the first edges of the segments of the adjacent chain structures are at a different level and the segments of the adjacent interlocked chain structures are perpendicular to each other, and the chain structures comprise at least one receiving chain structure (101a; 201a; 301a) and at least one support chain structure (101 b; 201b; 301b), and the receiving chain structure comprises a multitude of receiving segments (102a; 202a; 302a) and the support chain structure comprises a multitude of supporting segments (102b; 202b; 302b), and the receiving segments and the supporting segments are rectangular structures having two parallel opposing surfaces, a first surface (108; 308) and a second surface (309), and the receiving segment comprise at least one receiving aperture (110; 210; 310), and the supporting segment comprise at least two support extensions (111a, 111b, 111c; 211a, 211b; 311a), and at least one support extension (111c; 211a; 311a) is configured to be inserted into the receiving aperture when interlocking the receiving chain structure and the support chain structure.

2. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to claim 1 , characterised in that the receiving apertures (110; 210; 310) and the support extensions (111a; 211a; 311a) are configured to interlock with each other when the segments of adjacent chain structures are rotated in parallel to the longitudinal axis of the extension part (206; 306).

3. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that the heights of the receiving segments (102a; 202a; 302a) and the supporting segments (102b; 202b; 302b), i.e. the distance between the first edge (104; 204; 304) of the segment and the the second edge (105; 205; 305) of the segment, are equal.

4. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to any of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the receiving segments (102a; 202a; 302a) and the supporting segments (102b; 202b; 302b) of adjacent chain structures are configured in such a way that the side edges (103; 203; 303) of the segments of one chain structure extend over one surface of the segments of another chain structure.

5. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to any of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the second surfaces (309) of the segments that form one chain structure (101a, 101b; 201a, 201 b; 301a, 301 b) are fixed onto a flexible strip arrangement (813).

6. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the receiving apertures (110; 210; 310) extend through the receiving segments (102a; 202a; 302a).

7. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the support structure comprises two chain structures, one supporting chain structure (101 b) and one receiving chain structure (101a), and the supporting segments comprise two support extensions: a first support extension (111a) and a second support extension (111 b) on the first surface (108), and the first support extension comprises a barrier in the longitudinal direction of the extension part when the chain structures are interlocked and a protrusion (111c) extending from the barrier and the protrusion is parallel to the first surface (108) and the protrusion is configured to fit into the receiving aperture (110) of the receiving segment (102a) when the chain structures are interlocked, and the second support extension is a wedge-like structure rising from the first surface in such a way that the slope of the wedge-like structure is closest the first surface near the first edge (104), and the receiving chain structure is located between the first supportextension and the second support extension when the chain structures are interlocked.

8. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the support structure comprises three chain structures, one receiving chain structure (201a) and two supporting chain structures (201b), and the receiving chain structure is between the supporting chain structures, and the receiving segments (202a) comprise two receiving (210) apertures, and the supporting segments comprise two support extensions: a first support extension (211a) and a second support extension (211 b) on the first surface, and the first support extension comprises a barrier in the longitudinal direction of the extension part (206) when the chain structures are interlocked and a protrusion (211c) extending from the barrier and the protrusion is parallel to the first surface and the protrusion is configured to fit into the receiving aperture of the receiving segment (202a) when the chain structures are interlocked, and the second support extension is a wedge-like structure rising towards the centre of the supporting segment (202b), and the receiving chain structure is located between the first support extension and the second support extension.

9. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to claim 7 or 8, characterised in that the wedge-like structure of the second support extension (111b; 211 b) has an edge line where the distance between the surface of the second support extension and the first surface is the longest, and when the chain structure (101a; 201a, 201 b) is interlocked, the second edge (105; 205) of the receiving segment (102; 202a) is at the same level as the edge line.

10. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to any of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the support structure comprises four chain structures, two receiving chain structure (301a) and two supporting chain structures (301b), and the receiving chain structures are on opposing sides of the extension part (306), and the supporting chain structures are on opposing sides of the extension part.11 . The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to claim 10, characterised in that the receiving segment comprise two receiving apertures (310) and the supporting segment comprises four support extensions (311a), and the supportextensions are positioned in such a way that there are two support extensions at one side edge (303) of the supporting segment and two support extensions at another side edge of the supporting segment (302b).

12. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to claim 11 , characterised in that the two support extensions (311a) at one side edge (303) of the supporting segment (302b) and two support extensions at another side edge of the supporting segment are parallel to the surfaces of the supporting segment, and the support extensions at one side edge of the supporting segment are configured to fit into the receiving apertures (310) of two consecutive receiving segments, and the support extensions at another side edge of the supporting segment are configured to fit into the receiving apertures of two consecutive receiving segments (302a) when the chain structures (301a, 301b) are interlocked.

13. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to claim 12, characterised in that the receiving aperture (310) comprises a part where the receiving aperture is wider than the support extension (311a) in order to allow the support extension to enter the receiving aperture when the chain structures (301a, 301b) are being interlocked, i.e. the segments of the adjacent chain structures are moving in relation to each other, and the receiving aperture comprises a support extension recess (312) for the support extension and the support extension is positioned in the support extension recess when the chain structures are interlocked.

14. The support structure (100; 200; 300) according to any of claims 10 to 13, characterised in that the segments (302a, 302b) on opposite sides of the extension part (306) are in the same phase.

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