Abstract
A portable pavement system allowing for fast and easy installation of a pavement surface that incorporates individual pieces working together to create a solid, durable, adjustable, reusable, and removable platform for use as a parking or driveway facility, or other uses where such a surface possessing the special qualities described is advantageous.
Claims
1. A portable pavement system designed to provide temporary, long term, or permanent surface for a parking lot or driveway that is removable, reusable, can be stored in a compact space, and can be reconfigured as the needs of the users change, or be removable altogether and relocated for a new use.
2. A portable pavement system, as recited in claim 1, using concrete-filled metal tiles incorporating at least two lifting fixtures per unit to allow for transport, locating, and relocating, as needed.
3. A portable pavement system, as recited in claim 1, incorporating a rigid steel frame with a durable exterior perimeter and an interlocking matrix of reinforcing material for strength and durability, the metal parts being further made durable by treatment with a hot-dipped zinc galvanizing process.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] These and other features and advantages of the present invention will become more readily appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0014] FIG. 1 is, an isometric view showing the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 2 is, an x-ray view of the frame of the invention from a plan or top view prior to the addition of concrete filling material.
[0016] FIG. 3 is, an isometric view of the frame of the invention, less the concrete filling material, and featuring the two lifting fixtures used to locate and transport the invention.
[0017] FIG. 4 is, a view of one of the two lifting fixtures included in each example of the invention.
[0018] FIG. 5: Application view of invention collectively creating a parking facility in a strip shopping center.
[0019] FIG. 6: Application view of invention collectively creating a driveway/parking area in a residential setting.
REFERENCE LETTERING IN THE DRAWINGS
[0020] FIG. 1a: lifting fixture cover
[0021] FIG. 1b: lifting fixture tube
[0022] FIG. 1c: Channel frame exterior frame
[0023] FIG. 1d: Concrete filler material
[0024] FIG. 2a: Lifting fixture tube
[0025] FIG. 2b: Exterior channel frame
[0026] FIG. 2c: Reinforcing Bar, Rebar
[0027] FIG. 3a: Lifting fixture, extended
[0028] FIG. 3b: Lifting fixture, closed
[0029] FIG. 4a: Chain for lifting fixture
[0030] FIG. 4b: Lifting fixture tube
[0031] FIG. 4c: Cover for lifting fixture
[0032] FIG. 4d: Anchor for lifting fixture
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0033] FIG. 1 shows an isometric perspective view of the present invention in an assembled state. Each concrete tile as it is called, is a self contained, welded, concrete filled, pre-assembled item, ready to be used immediately. These are typically delivered to a work site where the ground has been prepared to receive them and are installed immediately using suitable heavy lifting equipment. Collectively, multiple examples of the invention work together to create a firm surface suitable for parking one or many heavy, medium or light duty vehicle or other machines, or to protect such equipment from exposure to a soft earthen surface or mud. Likewise, the invention serves to protect the earth underneath from excessive disturbance and, when the invention is removed, service to quickly and easily return the ground to its original state.
[0034] Key letter A, illustrates the extended position of the lifting fixture, which provides two identical locations for lifting and locating the invention for transport on flat-bed trailers, as an example, and for positioning the invention for permanent or temporary installation.
[0035] FIG. 2 illustrates the internal strength of the invention with the use of either (three quarter inch) or 1 (one inch) concrete reinforcing bars, key letter C. in FIG. 2, interlaced and interconnected by welding to the exterior channel, key letter B. in FIG. 2, and to one another. Likewise, the interconnected structure provides a locating position and mounting provision for the lifting fixture tubes, key letter A. in FIG. 2. With the addition of concrete, the finished product is strong yet portable and capable of withstanding at least the 3000 psi rating of typical concrete.
[0036] FIG. 4 illustrates the operation of the lifting fixture feature of the invention, which includes a two inches inside diameter (2) by four inches long (4) steel locating tube, key letter B., which is welded to the structure as described in paragraph [0019], above. Lifting tubes are protected against concrete entry during the concrete step. A suitably sized and strengthened chain, key letter A. in FIG. 4, as well as an anchor, key letter D. in FIG. 4, and a cover, key letter C. in FIG. 4, are added, which provides a clean and unobstructed surface when in a closed position as shown in key letter B. in FIG. 3. All metal work is treated with a hot-dipped galvanizing process before both concrete is added and the internal components of the lifting fixture are assembled. The lifting fixture cover is, stainless steel, for weather resistance and durability.
[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates a conceptual application for the invention when used in suitable numbers creating a useful and attractive, yet removable and reusable parking facility in a strip shopping centerin this example.
[0038] FIG. 6 illustrates a conceptual application for the invention when used in suitable numbers creating a useful and attractive, yet removable and reusable driveway and parking facility in a residential setting.
[0039] These are only two examples of the application of the invention. It can be used in almost any location where a solid, stable, yet adjustable and removable parking or pavement solution is required.
[0040] Although the preceding description contains significant detail, it should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention, but rather, as providing illustrations of the versatility of the invention. As an example, the invention could also be used on the interior of a commercial or industrial building creating a flooring surface that is not only sturdy, but adjustable and removable for maintenance or other needs. Such a variation would not materially alter the nature of the invention. Therefore, the scope of the invention should be fixed by the claim, rather than any specific examples provided.
