Truss bridge system

Abstract

The present invention relates to truss bridge systems, in particular for the usage at events, such as concerts, fairs and TV productions. The individual truss bridges are assembled by means of clamps which are fastened around specially designed mounting heads.

Description

[0001]

[0002] Truss bridge system

[0003] The technical field

[0004] The invention relates to truss bridge systems, in particular for the usage at events, such as concerts, fairs and TV productions.

[0005] Background of the invention

[0006] When holding a live event, a fair or an exhibition, large aluminium constructions are typically assembled prior to the event, consisting of a truss bridge, for the suspension of sound and light thereon. A single event may include everything from individual truss bridges to several kilometers of connected truss bridges.

[0007] The task of the event technician is to control and set up sound and light during the events, but also to assemble and prepare the truss bridge constructions before holding any event. The associated work process results in poor work postures, noise nuisances and transport challenges.

[0008] Object of the invention

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to design a truss bridge system for the event industry, which minimizes the quantity of loose parts, noise and assembly time as well as creates a stable and protective way of transporting the system.

[0010] Description of the invention

[0011] A first aspect relates to a truss bridge system, preferably for the usage at events, such as concerts, fairs and TV productions, which truss bridge system comprises:

[0012] - at least a first and a second truss bridge, each truss bridge comprising two or more stringers and a plurality of inclined struts mounted between the stringers;

[0013] - a first frame system adapted for mounting on the one end of the first truss bridge, the first frame system comprising two or more mounting heads;

[0014] - a second frame system adapted for mounting on the one end of the second truss bridge, the second frame system comprising two or more mounting heads; and

[0015] - a clamping system.

[0016] A second aspect relates to a truss bridge system, preferably for the usage at events, such as concerts, fairs and TV productions, which truss bridge system comprises:

[0017] - at least a first and a second truss bridge, each truss bridge comprising two or more stringers and a plurality of inclined struts mounted between the stringers;

[0018] - a first frame system adapted for mounting on the one end of the first truss bridge, the first frame system comprising two or more mounting heads;

[0019] - a second frame system adapted for mounting on the one end of the second truss bridge, the second frame system comprising two or more mounting heads; and

[0020] - a clamping system; wherein the clamping system is adapted for anchoring around two mounting heads each of which are mounted on their own first and second frame systems.

[0021] A truss bridge is designed based on an old building principle, wherein constructions are built up from triangles to obtain absolute tractive and compressive forces, which allows for long heavy loads with a limited use of material. The construction is called a truss. The advantage of truss bridges for scene setting is their modular construction, which allows the possibility of building smaller pieces together, if needed, and with retained strength. There are several different types of truss bridges, typically with two or more stringers (oblong metal beams, typically round metal pipes) and a plurality of inclined struts between the stringers. The selection of the truss bridge type depends on the task and the weight to be carried by the construction. The majority of truss bridges for the above-mentioned purpose are typically made of aluminium some of which are powder-varnished and others are untreated.

[0022] The present invention relates to an assembled truss bridge system which, with its novel assembly system, ensures a rapid and soundless assembly between truss bridges. The system comprises a simple assembly principle, wherein a clamp, preferably with double safeguard, is closed and locked around the heads of the truss bridge.

[0023] The truss bridge system is currently tested for a maximum load of 220 kg at a span of 16 meters. The novel clamping system and frame system reduce the assembly time and the workload, where there is no need for rotating the truss bridges.

[0024] The clamping system is built up with several functions and enables a tool-free solution as well as a faster, easier and more soundless work process. Moreover, damage to the varnish of the truss bridge caused by tools is prevented.

[0025] The frame system which comprises a frame and a plurality of, preferably detachably mounted mounting heads, ensures a distance to the support such that the clamping system, without any hindrance, can be mounted around each mounting head, mounted in the frame. The frame system is mounted on the stringers, preferably by being welded thereon. As a result, the frame system can be part of an existing truss bridge which, by way of example, might have been previously used in another truss bridge system.

[0026] Preferably, the mounting heads are replaceable in case they are exposed to impacts or subject to other wear and tear. Thus, the heads can be unscrewed with, by way of example, a spanner. Preferably, the mounting heads comprise a conical collar ensuring that they cannot be screwed in crookedly, thereby always achieving the optimal contact with the frame. The frame may comprise depressions adapted for receiving the conical collar. Other depressions can be formed on the outside of the frame, preferably be placed in the edge sections, preferably coated with a rubber item or another elastomeric item to ensure a stable and safe transport. The depressions can be adapted for receiving a pipe item from another truss bridge. In case that the rubber coating wears out, it can, in some embodiments, be replaced simply by loosening one or more screws which are adapted for anchoring the rubber item to the frame.

[0027] The clamping system is adapted for anchoring around two mounting heads each of which are mounted on their own truss bridge. In this way, the two truss bridges are coupled together.

[0028] The clamping system comprises a clamp and a closing mechanism. The clamp comprises a first part hingedly connected to a second part. The first and the second parts are together adapted for surrounding two opposite mounting heads. When the system is assembled, each of the two opposite mounting heads will be mounted on their own truss bridge. The closing mechanism is adapted for detachable fastening of the first part of the clamp to the second part of the clamp. The first part of the clamp preferably comprises a first end and a second end. The second part of the clamp preferably comprises a first end and a second end. In one or more embodiments, the one end of the first part is hingedly connected to the other end of the second part. In one or more embodiments, the other end of the first part is hingedly connected to the closing mechanism, and wherein the closing mechanism is adapted for detachable fastening to the first end of the second part. The closing mechanism can advantageously be configured as a handle, configured, by ay of example, to be rounded, which indicates a natural grip surface for the hand. The handle can be configured with grooved interaction surfaces to improve the grip of the fingers around the handle. The closing mechanism can be configured with a double safeguard. The closing mechanism can, by way of example, be configured with a first hook and a second hook, preferably, the one hook is configured for detachable fastening to the first end of the second part, and the other hook is configured for detachable fastening to the first part. The second hook is preferably hingedly connected to the first hook. The second hook can, by way of example, be spring-loaded. The double safeguard prevents the first hook from unlatching in an unintentional manner.

[0029] The inner sides of the first part and the second part may comprise an indicator colour such as yellow. If the colour is visible, this indicates that the clamping system is not correctly closed when it is attached to the truss bridges. Furthermore, the inner sides of the first part and the second part may comprise one or more lamellas, preferably manufactured from an elastomeric material, such as rubber. These lamellas ensure a strong, pre-stressed assembly around the mounting heads.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, each mounting head comprises one or more grooves and / or holes, and wherein the clamping system comprises a corresponding number of lamellas and / or teeth which are adapted for fitting down into said grooves and / or holes.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the mounting heads are detachably mounted in the frame system.

[0032] In one or more embodiments, the mounting heads comprise a conical collar, and wherein the frame system comprises a frame with depressions adapted for receiving the conical collar.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the first frame system comprises a frame with depressions formed on the outside of the frame, which depressions are adapted for receiving a stringer from the second truss bridge on which the second frame system is mounted.

[0034] In one or more embodiments, the clamping system comprises a clamp and a closing mechanism.

[0035] In one or more embodiments, the clamp comprises a first part hingedly connected to a second part, and wherein the first and the second parts together are adapted for surrounding two mounting heads each of which are mounted on their own first and second frame systems.

[0036] In one or more embodiments, the closing mechanism is adapted for detachable fastening of the first part of the clamp to the second part of the clamp.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the first part of the clamp comprises a first end and a second end, and wherein the second part of the clamp comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the one end of the first part is hingedly connected to the other end of the second part, wherein the other end of the first part is hingedly connected to the closing mechanism, and wherein the closing mechanism is adapted for detachable fastening to the first end of the second part.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, the closing mechanism is configured with a double safeguard, wherein the closing mechanism is configured with a first hook and a second hook, wherein the one hook is configured for detachable fastening to the first end of the second part, and wherein the other hook is configured for detachable fastening to the first part.

[0039] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings which show one preferred embodiment of the invention.

[0040] Description of the Figures

[0041] Fig. 1 shows a truss bridge according to the invention in a partly exploded view.

[0042] Figs. 2 and 3 show the set-up process of a truss bridge system according to the invention.

[0043] Fig. 4 shows an exploded view of the essential parts of the invention.

[0044] Fig. 5 shows a mounting head according to the invention in perspective.

[0045] Fig. 6 shows in perspective a clamping system according to the invention in an open configuration.

[0046] Fig. 7 shows in perspective a clamping system according to the invention in a closed configuration.

[0047] Fig. 8 shows in perspective a clamping system according to the invention in a closed configuration around two mounting heads.

[0048] Fig. 9 shows a part of a truss bridge system according to the invention.

[0049] Fig. 10 shows a part of a truss bridge according to the invention in a partly exploded view.

[0050] Fig. 11 shows a close-up view of stacked truss bridges according to the invention.

[0051] Fig. 12 shows in perspective a stack of truss bridges according to the invention on a carriage.

[0052] References

[0053] 1 Frame

[0054] 1.1 Depression

[0055] 2 Depression

[0056] 3 Mounting head

[0057] 3.1 First part

[0058] 3.2 Second part / conical collar

[0059] 3.3 Third part

[0060] 3.31 Groove

[0061] 4 Clamping system

[0062] 4.1 Clamp

[0063] 4.11 First part

[0064] 4.12 Second part

[0065] 4.13 Lamella

[0066] 4.2 Closing mechanism

[0067] 4.21 First hook

[0068] 4.22 Second hook

[0069] 5 Truss bridge

[0070] 6 Stringer

[0071] 7 Inclined strut

[0072] Detailed description of the invention

[0073] Fig. 1 shows a truss bridge in a partly exploded view. A truss bridge 5 with four stringers 6 and a plurality of inclined struts 7 mounted between the stringers can be seen here. A first frame system is mounted on the one end of the truss bridge 5. The frame system comprises a frame 1 and four mounting heads 3 adapted for detachable mounting in depressions 2 of the frame. Furthermore, a clamping system 4 is shown.

[0074] The Figures 2 and 3 show the set-up process of a truss bridge system. First, the truss bridge system arrives at a venue in a truck, where it is unloaded and transported into the site by means of small carriages. Subsequently, the individual truss bridges are lifted down from the carriage, placed in extension of each other and pulled together. Hence, the truss bridge system comprises minimum two truss bridges, both constructed as described above. In Steps 5-7, the clamping system 4 is placed around two opposite mounting heads 3 and are locked by means of a closing mechanism integrated into the clamping system 4. When all four clamping systems are mounted (Step 8), the truss bridge system can be used for the suspension of equipment (Step 9). The truss bridge system can, by way of example, be suspended in wires, or be built up as arcs with pillars and girder. The specifically used clamping system will be described in further detail below

[0075] Figure 4 shows an exploded view of the essential parts of the invention, namely frame 1, mounting head 3 and clamping system 4. The designs of these elements may vary and are shown here in preferred embodiments. Here, the clamping system 4 is shown in an open configuration 4B og and in a closed configuration 4A.

[0076] Fig. 5 shows a mounting head 3 according to the invention which is adapted for detachable mounting in the frame system. The mounting head 3 comprises a first part 3.1 with thread for mounting in the frame system’s frame 1, and a second part 3.2 in the form of a conical collar adapted for fitting down into one of the frame’s (here four) depressions 2.

[0077] In addition, the mounting head 3 comprises a third part 3.3 with a groove 3.31 configured for receiving a lamella 4.13 (see Figure 7) from the clamping system. The third part is generally configured for abutment for the clamping system. The groove 3.31 ensures a very precise mounting of the clamping system.

[0078] The Figures 6 and 7 show a preferred embodiment of the clamping system 4 according to the invention in an open 4A and closed 4B configuration, respectively. The clamping system 4 comprises a clamp 4.1 and a closing mechanism 4.2. Here, the clamp is shown comprising a first part 4.11 hingedly connected to a second part 4.12, and wherein the first 4.11 and the second 4.12 parts together are adapted for surrounding two mounting heads each of which are mounted on their own first and second frame systems. The closing mechanism 4.2 is adapted for detachable fastening of the first part of the clamp 4.11 to the second part of the clamp 4.12. The first part of the clamp 4.11 comprises a first end and a second end, and wherein the second part of the clamp 4.12 comprises a first end and a second end. The one end of the first part of the clamp 4.11 is hingedly connected to the other end of the second part of the clamp 4.12, and the other end of the first part of the clamp 4.11 is hingedly connected to the closing mechanism 4.2.

[0079] The closing mechanism 4.2 is adapted for detachable fastening to the first end of the second part of the clamp 4.12 by means of a first hook 4.21 . The closing mechanism 4.2 is configured with a double safeguard consisting of said first hook 4.21 and a second hook 4.22 which are configured for detachable fastening to the first part of the clamp 4.11. Firstly, the first hook 4.21 is fastened (see Step 6 of Figure 2), and then the second hook 4.22 is fastened (see Step 7 of Figure 3).

[0080] Figure 8 shows the preferred clamping system 4 in a closed configuration around two mounting heads 3, and Figure 9 shows the same, wherein each of the mounting heads (not visible) are mounted in their own frames 1A, 1B each welded together with their own truss bridge (here, directly to the stringers 6).

[0081] Figure 10 shows a part of a truss bridge according to the invention in a partly exploded view. Depressions 1.1 formed on the outside of the frame 1 and placed in the edge sections can be seen here. The depressions 1.1 are each provided with a rubber item 1.2 to ensure a stable and safe transport. The depressions are furthermore adapted for receiving a stringer 6 from another truss bridge (see Figure 11) such that the truss bridges can be stacked. In case the rubber item 1 .2 is worn out, it is replaceable simply by loosening two screws 1 .3 which are adapted for anchoring the rubber item 1.2 to the frame 1. Fig. 12 shows a stack of truss bridges according to the invention on a carriage.

Claims

Claims1 . A truss bridge system, preferably for the usage at events, such as concerts, fairs and TV productions, which truss bridge system comprises:- at least a first and a second truss bridge (5), each truss bridge (5) comprising two or more stringers (6) and a plurality of inclined struts (7) mounted between the stringers (6);- a first frame system adapted for mounting on the one end of the first truss bridge (5), the first frame system comprising two or more mounting heads (3);- a second frame system adapted for mounting on the one end of the second truss bridge (5), the second frame system comprising two or more mounting heads (3); and- a clamping system; characterized in that the clamping system is adapted for anchoring around two mounting heads (3) each of which are mounted on their own first and second frame systems.

2. The truss bridge system according to claim 1 , characterized in that each mounting head (3) comprises one or more grooves (3.31) and / or holes, and wherein the clamping system comprises a corresponding number of lamellas (4.13) and / or teeth which are adapted for fitting down into said grooves (3.31) and / or holes.

3. The truss bridge system according to any one of the claims 1-2, characterized in that the mounting heads (3) are detachably mounted in the frame system.

4. The truss bridge system according to any one of the claims 1-3, characterized in that the mounting heads (3) comprise a conical collar (3.2), and wherein the frame system comprises a frame (1) with depressions (2) adapted for receiving the conical collar (3.2).

5. The truss bridge system according to any one of the claims 1-4, characterized in that the first frame system comprises a frame (1) with depressions(1.1) formed on the outside of the frame (1), which depressions (1.1) are adapted for receiving a stringer (6) from the second truss bridge on which the second frame system is mounted.

6. The truss bridge system according to any one of the claims 1-5, characterized in that the clamping system comprises a clamp (4.1) and a closing mechanism (4.2).

7. The truss bridge system according to claim 6, characterized in that the clamp (4.1) comprises a first part (4.11) hingedly connected to a second part (4.12), and wherein the first (4.11) and the second (4.12) parts together are adapted for surrounding two mounting heads (3) each of which are mounted on their own first and second frame systems.

8. The truss bridge system according to claim 7, characterized in that the closing mechanism (4.2) is adapted for detachable fastening of the first part of the clamp(4.11) to the second part of the clamp (4.12).

9. The truss bridge system according to claim 8, characterized in that the first part of the clamp (4.11) comprises a first end and a second end, and wherein the second part of the clamp (4.12) comprises a first end and a second end, wherein the one end of the first part (4.11) is hingedly connected to the other end of the second part(4.12), wherein the other end of the first part (4.11) is hingedly connected to the closing mechanism (4.2), and wherein the closing mechanism (4.2) is adapted for detachable fastening to the first end of the second part (4.12).

10. The truss bridge system according to claim 9, characterized in that the closing mechanism (4.2) is configured with a double safeguard, wherein the closing mechanism (4.2) is configured with a first hook (4.21) and a second hook (4.22), wherein the one hook (4.21 , 4.22) is configured for detachable fastening to the first end of the second part (4.12), and wherein the other hook (4.21 , 4.22) is configured for detachable fastening to the first part (4.11).

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