Patent · US Expired

Module for expandable framework structure and expandable framework structure employing said module

US5243803A · kind A · utility

7Cited by
5References
9Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateNov 30, 1992
Grant dateSep 14, 1993
Priority date
Expiry dateNov 30, 2012

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB64G99/00
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

An expandable framework structure is formed by connecting together a plurality of polygonal prism-like framework structure modules with one side of a module serving also as one side of another module adjacent thereto. A module employed comprises stems each having a joint as well as a slide hinge, pairs of pantograph-like diagonal members and cables. This serves to provide an expandable framework structure having high stability and reliability and which is free from any rattling of the connecting pin at the pin connected portion. Thus, the expandable framework structure provided is highly rigid and hence is capable of maintaining a stable configuration after developed. The module employed also comprises vertical frames, foldabIe members, main hinges, intermediate hinges and diagonal cables. The rotational axis of the pin of the intermediate hinge deviates from the center axis of the foldable member realized when it has been unfolded. The foldable members and the diagonal cable, when stretched, serve to maintain the configuration of the expandable framework structure stable without additional latch mechanisms. Thus, an expandable framework structure provided requires less components …

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.