Abstract
A portable stage includes a folding framework supporting a removable deck. The framework includes opposing folding end framework assemblies and opposed side framework assemblies. The framework folds from an extended position for use and a folded positon wherein the framework is compact for storage. The side framework assemblies each include corner columns connected by angled portions having a V configuration forming an open space below the deck. The decks connect with pin connectors that extend into through holes in the deck. The pin connectors having a threaded connector supporting a pin that provides for relative axial movement when the pin is rotated from above to adjust stage height. Removable guardrails include mounting brackets that attach to the pin connectors.
Claims
1. A portable stage comprising: a deck having a through-hole extending vertically through the deck; a frame below the deck; a pin extending into the through hole and having a top engagement portion configured to be engaged from above; and a height adjustment assembly mounted on the frame and attached to the pin, the height adjustment assembly raising the deck upon rotation of the pin in a first direction.
2. A portable stage according to claim 1, wherein the height adjustment assembly lowers the deck upon rotation of the pin in a second direction.
3. A portable stage according to claim 2, wherein the height adjustment assembly comprises a rod attached to the pin and threadably mounted to a bushing.
4. A portable stage according to claim 1, wherein the top engagement port comprises a tool engagement element at an upper surface of the pin and configured for engagement from above by a complementary tool.
5. A portable stage according to claim 1, further comprising an insert in the through hole around the pin.
6. A portable stage according to claim 1, further comprising a sleeve in the through hole around the pin.
7. A portable stage according to claim 1, wherein the stage comprises a plurality of the decks and wherein the frame is configured for supporting the plurality of the decks.
8. A portable stage according to claim 1, comprising a pin connector assembly, the pin connector assembly including a plurality of pins, the plurality of pins being spaced and configured for extending into a corresponding through hole in a corresponding bridging deck.
9. A portable stage according to claim 8, wherein the further pins are rotatably mounted on arms extending from a housing, and wherein the housing is rotatably mounted for positioning one or more of the arms below the deck.
10. A portable stage according to claim 1, comprising a pin connector assembly, the pin connector assembly including three arms extending from the housing, each of the arms having a further pin mounted thereon; the further pins being spaced to extend into through-holes of further decks and support a corner of the further decks.
11. A portable stage according to claim 10, wherein the further pins are rotatably mounted on the arms and wherein the housing and each of the pins are rotatably mounted for positioning one or more of the arms below the deck.
12. A portable stage system comprising: a rectangular deck having opposed ends and opposed sides; a folding framework supporting the deck, the deck being removably mounted to the framework; the framework comprising: a first side framework assembly and a second side framework assembly, the first and second side framework assemblies being proximate the opposed sides of the deck, each of the first and second framework assemblies having vertical columns connected by a lower frame member and two angled frame portions, each of the angled frame portions extending from an upper section of one of the vertical columns downward to a center portion of the lower frame member, the angled frame portions forming an unobstructed space below the deck; a first end framework assembly and a second end framework assembly, the first and second end framework assemblies being proximate the opposed ends of the deck, the first and second framework assemblies connecting the first and second side framework assemblies, each of the first and second end framework assemblies including first and second end frame members; the first end frame member being pivotally connected to the second end frame member, the first end frame member being pivotally connected to the first side framework assembly and the second end frame member being pivotally connected to the second side framework assembly, wherein the framework folds from an unfolded position to a folded positon wherein the first and second side framework assemblies are closer in the folded positon than in the unfolded position.
13. A portable stage system according to claim 12, wherein the first and second end frame members fold inward in the folded position.
14. A portable stage system according to claim 12, further comprising a latch for selectively retaining the folding framework in the unfolded position.
15. A portable stage system according to claim 12, wherein the folding framework is configured for supporting a plurality of decks.
16. A portable stage system, comprising: a deck having a through-hole extending vertically through the deck; a frame below the deck, the deck being removably mounted on the frame; a pin connector assembly mounted to the frame and including a pin extending into the through-hole; and a guardrail mounting to the connector assembly, the guardrail comprising: a cross member; a leg, the leg supporting the cross member; a mounting bracket attached to the leg, the mounting bracket including a flange having an orifice configure for receiving the pin and a vertical engaging surface configured for engaging the connector assembly.
17. A portable stage system according to claim 16, wherein the frame is configured for supporting a plurality of decks.
18. A portable stage system according to claim 16, wherein the frame comprises a folding framework.
19. A portable stage system according to claim 18, wherein the folding framework is configured for supporting a plurality of decks.
20. A portable stage system according to claim 16, wherein the portable stage system comprises a plurality of the guardrails and a plurality of the connector assemblies; wherein each of the guardrails mounts to a corresponding connector assembly.
21. A portable stage system according to claim 16, wherein the pin connector assembly includes a guardrail mounting surface and a backup mounting surface on an arm portion, the guardrail mounting to the pin connector assembly, the guardrail mounting surface and the backup mounting surface being oriented so that the guardrail is positioned parallel to an edge of the deck.
22. A portable stage comprising: a deck having a through-hole extending vertically through the deck; a frame below the deck; and a pin connector assembly, the pin connector assembly including a plurality of pins mounted on arms extending from a housing, the plurality of pins being spaced and configured for each of the pins extending into a corresponding through hole in a deck, wherein the housing is rotatably mounted for positioning one or more of the arms below the deck and includes a release assembly for positioning the pin connector assembly at a selected orientation.
23. A portable stage according to claim 22, wherein the release assembly includes a handle, a pin and a spring, the pin selectively extending through a corresponding orifice in the housing.
24. A portable stage according to claim 22, wherein the arms extend from the housing and wherein the housing is mounted to rotate about a vertical axis and the pins are mounted to rotate about a horizontal axis for positioning one or more of the arms below the deck.
25. A portable stage according to claim 22, the pin connector assembly including three arms extending from the housing, each of the arms having a further pin mounted thereon; the further pins being spaced to extend into through-holes of further decks and support a corner of the further decks.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals and letters indicate corresponding structure throughout the several views:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a portable stage in an unfolded position according to the principles of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 1 with the decks removed;
[0019] FIG. 3 is an end elevational view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 2;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 2;
[0021] FIG. 5 is a side view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 2;
[0022] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 2 with the deck support columns at a lowest position;
[0023] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the portable stage age shown in FIG. 6 in a folded position;
[0024] FIG. 8 is an end elevational view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 7;
[0025] FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 7;
[0026] FIG. 10 is a side view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 7;
[0027] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a portable stage in an unfolded position according to the principles of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 11 with the decks removed;
[0029] FIG. 13 is an end elevational view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 12;
[0030] FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 12;
[0031] FIG. 15 is a side view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 12;
[0032] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 12 with the deck support columns at a lowest position;
[0033] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the portable stage age shown in FIG. 16 in a folded position;
[0034] FIG. 18 is an end elevational view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 17;
[0035] FIG. 19 is a top plan view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 17;
[0036] FIG. 20 is a side view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 17;
[0037] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a portable stage in an unfolded position according to the principles of the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the portable stage shown in FIG. 21 with the decks removed;
[0039] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a stage deck and a support for the stage shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 11 or FIG. 21 with an adjustment tool inserted;
[0040] FIG. 24 is a detail view of the deck, support and tool shown in FIG. 23;
[0041] FIG. 25 is a side sectional detail view of the deck shown in FIG. 23;
[0042] FIG. 26 is a side sectional view of the deck shown in FIG. 25 with the deck raised;
[0043] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an adjustable pin connector assembly for the stage shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 11 or FIG. 21;
[0044] FIG. 28 is a partially exploded perspective view of the pin connector assembly shown in FIG. 27;
[0045] FIG. 29 is a top plan view of the pin connector assembly shown in FIG. 27;
[0046] FIG. 30 is a sectional view taken along line 30-30 of FIG. 29;
[0047] FIG. 31 is an exploded perspective view of an adjustable pin connector for the pin connector assembly shown in FIG. 27;
[0048] FIG. 32 is an exploded side view of the adjustable pin connector shown in FIG. 31;
[0049] FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a fixed pin connector assembly for the stage shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 11 or FIG. 21;
[0050] FIG. 34 is a partially exploded perspective view of the pin connector assembly shown in FIG. 33;
[0051] FIG. 35 is a top plan view of the pin connector assembly shown in FIG. 33;
[0052] FIG. 36 is a sectional view taken along line 36-36 of FIG. 35;
[0053] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a removable guardrail for the stage shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 11 or FIG. 21;
[0054] FIG. 38 is a front elevational view of the guardrail shown in FIG. 37;
[0055] FIG. 39 is a detail view of the mounting assembly for the guardrail shown in FIG. 37; and
[0056] FIG. 40 is a perspective view of the guardrail shown in FIG. 27 mounted to pin connector assemblies.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0057] Referring now to the drawings and in particular to FIGS. 1-10, there is shown a portable stage, generally designated (100). In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-10, the stage (100) includes a folding framework (102) supporting three decks (104) in an extended side-by-side configuration. It can also be appreciated that bridging decks may be extended between and supported on the frameworks (102) to form an extended elevated stage surface. The folding framework (102) includes side frame assemblies (106) and folding end frame assemblies (108). The framework (102) includes selectively retractable caster assemblies (110). When the caster assemblies are lowered, the framework (102) is supported on the casters and may be rolled and easily moved. When the framework (102) is unfolded and ready for use, the casters are raised and the stages are supported on feet or glides (126).
[0058] The side frame assemblies (106) include lower horizontal frame members (112) and angled frame portions (114). The angled frame portions (114) form a generally V-shaped profile. The configuration provides for substantial open space below the decks (102) and above the angled frame portions (114). In the embodiment shown, the angled frame portions (114) are formed as a single element, but each angled frame portion (114) could be a separate element. The opening provides for access to the space below the stage decks (104) should items need to be stored or for workers to reach through the opening and arrange cabling and other elements. Moreover, the open configuration provides for satisfactory support and rigidity even when the stage decks are loaded. It can also be appreciated that the opening increases if the stage decks (104) are raised.
[0059] The stages decks (104) are supported on columns (118) generally at each corner of the deck. The columns (118) include telescoping elements (120) extending from the top of the framework (102). A pin (146) on a pin connector assembly (140) inserts into through holes, discussed hereinafter, and formed horizontally through the decks (104). The pin connector assembly (140) mounts on the top of a corresponding telescoping element (120). The height may be adjusted to multiple different heights by using a spring loaded adjustment pin (124) extending into spaced apart adjustment holes (122) in the telescoping elements (120). In the embodiment shown, the height may be varied between 48 inches and 78 inches. However, it can be appreciated that other heights and adjustment ranges may be accomplished by varying the height of the frame and/or telescoping elements.
[0060] The frameworks (102) fold for storage as shown in FIGS. 7-10. The end frame assemblies (108) include a pair of end frame members (116). The framework includes hinges (130) to pivotably mount the end frame members (116) to the side frame assemblies (106). In addition, hinges (132) at the center of the end frame assemblies (108) provide for hinged connection between the end frame members (116). A spring loaded pin (134) provides for selectively locking and releasing the end frame members (116). When the pin (134) is engaged to lock the end frame assembly (108) in the unfolded use position, the framework (102) is positioned so that pins (146) are properly aligned with the through holes formed through the decks (104). As shown in FIGS. 7-10, with the decks removed, the folding frameworks (102) can be folded to a more compact configuration, taking up less space and having a smaller footprint than in the unfolded use position. Therefore, the present invention requires less storage space than a permanent deck or an unfolding stage or a stage that lacks removable decks. When in the folded configuration, the frameworks (102) may be easily transported by rolling on the casters of the lowered caster assemblies (110).
[0061] In a second embodiment, shown in FIGS. 11-20, the portable stage is configured as a single deck unit, generally designated (200). The single portable stage (200) is generally configured with elements similar to the stage (100) supporting three decks. However, the framework (202) includes only four frame columns (118) and only one set of end frame assemblies (108). It can be appreciated that the framework elements are standardized and generally interchangeable to decrease manufacturing costs. Moreover, the rectangular decks (104) may be used for all units. The single stage (200) is also capable of supporting bridging decks between frameworks (202) and may be combined with other stages of other sizes in various configurations to achieve a wide range of elevated extended stage sizes and configurations.
[0062] In a third embodiment, shown in FIGS. 21-22, the portable stage is configured as a double deck unit, generally designated (300). The double portable stage (300) is generally configured with elements similar to the stage (100) supporting three decks or the stage (200) supporting a single deck. However, the framework (302) includes six frame columns (318) and only two sets of end frame assemblies (308). Moreover, the rectangular decks (104) may be used for all units. The double stage (300) is also capable of supporting bridging decks between frameworks (302) and may be combined with the triple deck stages (100) and/or the single deck stages (300) in various configurations to achieve a wide range of elevated stage sizes and configurations. The use of different size frameworks provides great flexibility in layout and design for a wide range of needs and applications. It can also be appreciated that the stages may be used with stages of different heights in a riser configuration or to create a multiple level stage.
[0063] Referring now to FIGS. 23-26, the decks (104) shown are lightweight, generally rectangular elements. A typical deck is four feet wide by eight feet long. However, other shapes are possible including square decks, triangular decks or other trapezoidal decks. The decks (104) include a vertical through hole (136) near each corner of a deck (104) that receives a pin connector as explained hereinafter. A sleeve type insert (138A) is slidably positioned in the through hole (136) to fill the through hole and to help align the pin. The sleeve type insert (138A) is retained by endcaps (138B) flush with each face of the deck (104). The endcaps (138B) each include a center opening that provides for insertion of the pin (146). When the deck is mounted on the framework (102 or 202), the pin (146) extends through the opening in the bottom endcap (138B) and pushes the sleeve (138A) upward proximate an inner face of the top endcap (138B). In this manner, the through hole (136) is substantially filled and an endcap (138B) is supported and substantially flush with the deck face regardless of which face of the deck (104) is the top surface. Moreover, the sleeve (138A) is retained within the through hole (136) by the endcaps (138B) so the sleeve element (138A) cannot be lost.
[0064] Referring now to FIGS. 27-32, there is shown an adjustable pin connector assembly, generally designated (140). The pin connector assembly (140) includes a housing (142) including a cylindrical corner portion (142D) and arm portions (142A, 142B, 142C) that receive rotatable connector pins (144). The cylindrical corner portion (142D) of the housing (142) attaches to a height adjustment assembly (160) at the upper end of the telescoping elements (120) of the frame columns (118). The pin connector assemblies (140) may be used with either the triple stage (100), the double stage (300) or the single stage (200). The rotatable pins (144) mount on horizontal shafts and extend between a lowered position in which the pins (144) extend substantially horizontally and a raised position in which the pins (144) extend vertically and may extend into through holes (136) of a bridging deck (104). The pin connector assembly (140) may also be positioned on the telescoping element (120) so that the housing (142) is pointing inwardly underneath the deck (104) and such as may be required at a corner position. Moreover, for edges of a stage, the pin connector assembly (140) may be positioned so that only one, two or all three of the rotatable pins (144) are beyond an edge of the stage (100), (200) or (300).
[0065] A release assembly (148) includes a handle (150) in the center arm portion (142B), a pin (152) and a spring (154). The pin (152) selectively extends through a corresponding orifice in the housing and height adjustment assembly (160) and allows for removal of the pin connector assembly (140) as well as rotation so that the pin connector assembly (140) may be oriented in the correct position. The handle (150) extends below the housing (142) and is simply pivoted outward to release the housing (140) from the height adjustment assembly (160). The housing (142) also includes a guardrail mounting surface (156) and a backup mounting surface (158) on the center arm portion (142B). The surfaces (156) and (158) allow for mounting a guardrail to the pin connector assembly rather than to the decks as was done with prior art stages. The mounting surfaces are positioned off the center arm and oriented so that the guardrail is positioned parallel to the edge of the decks.
[0066] Referring now to FIGS. 31 and 32, the height adjustment assembly (160) is shown. The height adjustment assembly (160) includes the pin (146) that is aligned with and extends upward above the frame columns (118) and into the through holes (136) of the decks (104) on the frames (102) or (202). The height adjustment assembly includes a bottom threaded bushing (162) and extends into the telescoping elements (120). A rod (164) threadably mounts into the bushing (162). A socket (166) mounts to the rod and supports the pin (146). The socket (166) includes a radially flange (168). The cylindrical corner portion (142D) of the pin connector assembly (140) is supported on the radial flange (168). Pin (146) and rod (164) are connected so that rotation of the pin (146) also rotates at the rod (164) which threadably rotates relative to the bushing (162). Alternatively, pin (146) and rod (164) may be formed as a single element. The threaded connection therefore provides axial movement of the socket (166) and pin (146) relative to the bushing (162) and column (118). Therefore, by rotating the pin, the socket (166) moves up or down and the height of the pin connector assembly (140) may be adjusted. Although a threaded relationship is shown, other configurations are possible that axially move the socket such as a worm gear or cam(s). Combined with the spaced apart adjustment holes in the telescoping elements (120), the stages (100), (200) and (300) may be adjusted to a proper height and more finely tuned to a proper height. Moreover, if the stage is on uneven ground or there are other irregularities, the height adjustment assembly may be changed so that a level surface is maintained across an elevated stage surface.
[0067] Referring again to FIGS. 23-26, it can be appreciated that the pin (146) having an internal hex may be engaged through the top of the through hole (136) formed in the deck (104). A hex tool (1000) may simply be inserted into the complementary hex opening in the pin (146). As shown in FIG. 25, the height adjustment assembly (160) is at the lowest position. However, when the tool (1000) rotates the pin, the height adjustment assembly (160) raises the deck at the corner of the corresponding deck (104). The threads provide very fine height adjustment so that the proper level surface can be achieved. It can also be appreciated that unlike prior portable stage systems, the height adjustment is easily accessed and conducted from above the stage surface by workers.
[0068] Referring now to FIGS. 33-36, the stages (100), (200) and (300) may also utilize a second embodiment of a pin connector (170). The fixed pin connector (170) also includes rotatable pins (144) and a pin (146) above the frame columns. However, a housing (172) does not include the height adjustment assembly and does not include a release. It can be appreciated that removable pins (194) which may be connected to lanyards so that they are not lost or separated may be utilized for retaining the pin connectors to the stage. The fixed pin connector assembly (170) also includes the mounting surfaces (156) and (158) and may be utilized on some stages while the height adjustment is used on other ones of the stages depending upon the application.
[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 37-40, guardrails (180) are configured to be positioned along edges of an extended stage surface. The guardrail (180) includes cross members (182) and vertical members (184). Mounting brackets (186) are configured to mount to the pin connector assemblies (140) and/or (170). The mounting bracket (186) includes a horizontal flange (188), a pin-receiving portion (190) formed in the horizontal flange and a vertical engagement surface (192). A pin on a lanyard extends through the bracket (186) and engages the pin connector assemblies (140) or (170). The mounting brackets are configured so that the bracket engages the mounting surfaces (156) when mounted to the center arm portion (142B) or engage sides of the arm portions (142A) or (142C), as shown in FIG. 40. The pin receiving portion (190) fits over a rotating pin (144) to assure correct positioning and alignment. The connector pin (194) extends through the bracket (186) and backup surface (156) and (158). The vertical engagement surface abuts the corresponding mounting surfaces (156). With such a configuration, the rails (180) mount to the pin connector assemblies (140, 170) and do not require engagement with the deck. A sturdy support and strong connection are made to provide sufficient safety around the perimeter of an extended stage surface.
[0070] It is to be understood, however, that even though numerous characteristics and advantages of the present invention have been set forth in the foregoing description, together with details of the structure and function of the invention, the disclosure is illustrative only, and changes may be made in detail, especially in matters of shape, size and arrangement of parts within the principles of the invention to the full extent indicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which the appended claims are expressed.
