Static structures (e.g. – buildings) – Stepped; e.g. – stair – Interconnected relatively movable components
Patent
1997-01-21
1999-04-06
Friedman, Carl D.
Static structures (e.g., buildings)
Stepped; e.g., stair
Interconnected relatively movable components
182156, E04F 1100
Patent
active
058903305
DESCRIPTION:
BRIEF SUMMARY
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to steps having a variable configuration.
In order to take into account each particular configuration, which determines the slope of the strings and the distance between treads, made-to-measure steps can be manufactured, which are supplied assembled, or which on the other hand can be assembled on site. Such steps are expensive both to manufacture and to install.
Some known steps have an adjustable configuration but their structural components are still expensive. Thus steps are known according to DE-A-1 778 509 in which the treads have on each side two angle-irons pierced by a hole in order to allow locking in an adjustable position in a slide of the strings. These steps are expensive to manufacture with several welded pieces. A stock must be kept of different treads for the different widths of steps. The rigidity of the steps depends on the rigidity of the angle-irons.
The object of the invention is to propose steps having a variable configuration which are particularly simple to make and to install.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the invention, the steps having a variable configuration comprises two parallel strings, treads intended to extend parallel to one another each between the two strings, and means of fixing the treads in an adjustable position between the two strings, characterized in that the means of fixing comprise for each tread at least one rod extending over the whole width of the tread and at each end of which a respective clamping means is fitted in order to press the two strings one towards the other with compression of the tread forming a strut.
As the treads are fixed in the manner of mere struts between the strings, they can if so desired be obtained by mere cutting of a profiled section. There is no longer any need to add lateral fixing flanges to them. Assembly is very quick, and the rigidity of the unit which is obtained is improved thanks to the rigid and compressed bracing which the treads define between the strings. The presence of at least one rod over the whole width of the tread reinforces the latter against deflection under the weight of the user or users. In order to make steps having a determined width, it is enough to cut the profiled section of the treads to the corresponding length, and to use rods of a likewise corresponding length.
The assembly of the steps can be a simple and quick operation, requiring neither particular skill nor complicated tools. The clamping means can be detachable, allowing the steps to be dismantled and reassembled on another site, with another configuration.
These steps having a variable configuration in which the treads and the two strings preferably consist of aluminium profiled sections can have other characteristics. The strings can be reinforced by elements, made from steel, sliding in the inside of the aluminium profiled section. And in order to facilitate further the fixing of the steps at the same time to the ground and to the top of the vertical wall against which the steps are placed, screwable angle-irons and sectors can be supplied with the steps.
The steps can be marketed in kit form.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Other particular features and advantages of the invention will emerge from the following description, which relates to non-limiting examples, and with reference to the drawing in which:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a tread of the steps and of two strings with a broken away portion showing the means fixing the tread to the string;
FIG. 2 is a view of the steps from above showing a tread, the profiled sections of the two lateral strings and four corresponding fixing means;
FIG. 3 is a detailed view of one of the fixing means;
FIG. 4 is a side view showing the inclined lateral string and, showing through, two successive horizontal treads and also their associated fixing means, another possible inclination of the string being represented by dotted lines;
FIG. 5 is a side view showing a complete lateral string and the means of fixing this string to
REFERENCES:
patent: 3299590 (1967-01-01), Carter
patent: 3765137 (1973-10-01), Loix
patent: 4959935 (1990-10-01), Stob
patent: 5189854 (1993-03-01), Nebel
Aubrey Beth A.
Friedman Carl D.
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