US20120326108A1 - Hand rails - Google Patents
Hand rails Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20120326108A1 US20120326108A1 US13/577,837 US201113577837A US2012326108A1 US 20120326108 A1 US20120326108 A1 US 20120326108A1 US 201113577837 A US201113577837 A US 201113577837A US 2012326108 A1 US2012326108 A1 US 2012326108A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- rail
- post
- connector
- connection part
- top rail
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/181—Balustrades
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/181—Balustrades
- E04F11/1817—Connections therefor
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/181—Balustrades
- E04F11/1817—Connections therefor
- E04F11/1834—Connections therefor with adjustable angle, e.g. pivotal connections
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/181—Balustrades
- E04F11/1836—Handrails of balustrades; Connections between handrail members
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/181—Balustrades
- E04F11/1817—Connections therefor
- E04F2011/1819—Connections therefor between balustrade posts and horizontal or sloping balustrade members
- E04F2011/1821—Connections therefor between balustrade posts and horizontal or sloping balustrade members between balustrade posts and handrails
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
- E04F11/00—Stairways, ramps, or like structures; Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F11/18—Balustrades; Handrails
- E04F2011/1885—Handrails or balusters characterized by the use of specific materials
- E04F2011/1897—Handrails or balusters characterized by the use of specific materials mainly of organic plastics with or without reinforcements or filling materials
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to hand rails and particularly to aspects of safety, production and assembly of, and connections of, hand rails.
- Hand rail structures are used in a wide range of circumstances and for a variety of reasons. For example, hand rail structures may be deployed along staircases or walkways to serve as a support for people as they move. Alternatively or additionally hand rail systems can be used as barriers or “fences” to delimit an area.
- the present invention seeks to provide improvements in or relating to hand rail systems.
- a handrail system comprising a top rail and one or more support posts, in which the rail and post/s are formed from a synthetic material.
- the material from which the hand rail system is produced is an important consideration.
- the material from which all of the components of the hand rail system may be the same or, depending on the circumstances may be different.
- the synthetic material may comprise a composite material such as an advanced composite.
- the material may comprise a reinforced composite material such as a fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) material, which is a composite material of fibre glass (or other fibre) in a polymer matrix.
- FRP is seen as a particularly suitable material from which to form the hand rail structures of the present invention.
- FRP combines low weight with high strength and provides corrosion resistance and excellent thermal and electrical insulation. Because FRP materials have low thermal conductivity they can have particular benefits when used in cold weather conditions, where they are “warm” to the touch. Other advantageous properties may include low electrical conductivity and electromagnetic transparency.
- the FRP material can be selected on the basis of required properties for the resulting hand rail systems, for example polyester-, epoxy-, and vinyl ester-based materials.
- polyester-, epoxy-, and vinyl ester-based materials for example phenolic-based FRP materials can be used.
- suitable component materials may include bioresins and natural fibres to form a reinforced composite material.
- Phenolic-based FRP materials have presented significant difficulties in production, for example, by pultrusion. However, the inventors have surprisingly found that phenolic-FRP can be used to form hand rail structures which have particularly good fire-resistance properties. Phenolic-based FRP hand rails may have particular benefits for off shore applications, such as oil rigs.
- the material may be provided in various forms for production (for example by moulding) such as sheet moulding compound (SMC) or dough moulding compound (DMC).
- moulding such as sheet moulding compound (SMC) or dough moulding compound (DMC).
- connection of the post to the rail may be articulated so that, in use, the rail slope is adjustable. This allows, for example, posts to stay generally vertical whilst the rail can be used for level and sloping applications.
- the rail may comprise one or more sockets for receiving respective posts.
- the post is therefore fitted into the rail interior which removes the need for an external bracket.
- the articulation part of the joint can thereby be hidden in the top rail moulding. This minimises the trapping risk presented by the rail in use because and allows the rail to be constructed with no sharp corners which might, for example, allow loose clothing to get caught.
- the system may comprise connectors for receiving the post/s and for receiving rail sections.
- the connector may be arranged to receive a rail section at either end thereof and to receive the post on its underside (in use).
- the connector may comprise a post joint portion hingedly connected to a rail body portion.
- the joint portion therefore serves as a connector between the rail and the main post structure, with the rail body portion effectively forming an integral part of the rail.
- the post joint portion may comprise a post adapter receivable in the rail portion and connectable to a support post.
- the post may be connected to the rail by a hinge pin.
- the hinge pin permits articulation of the post and rail with respect to each other.
- the rail and post/s may have square cut ends. Simple square cut ends make accurate fabrication simpler and generally give a better quality finish. Configuring the hand rail system so that no sloping cuts or mitre joints are required gives significant production and assembly benefits.
- a handrail system comprising a top rail and one or more support posts connected to the rail, in which the or each post-rail connection region is adapted to permit a user to maintain a continuous grip of the rail during a sliding movement across the region.
- top rail In known hand rail systems it is usual for posts to connect to the top rail with cumbersome brackets which are of a size, shape and position which forces a user to remove their hand from the hand rail and pass over the bracket to the other side before they can replace their hand.
- brackets which are of a size, shape and position which forces a user to remove their hand from the hand rail and pass over the bracket to the other side before they can replace their hand.
- the provision of a “continuous” top rail is an important safety and ergonomic feature. This allows a hand to hold the rail and slide it along continuously as someone is walking. This means that as a person is walking besides the hand rail they do not have to take their hand off.
- the provision of a continuous hand grip/contact area which is unencumbered by post-rail connections is an important safety feature because the user can be in continual gripping contact with the top rail. This would be particularly important, for example, in the event of a fire or other emergency in which visibility is impaired so that the user can feel their way along the hand rail with no
- a handrail system comprising a generally cylindrical top rail and one or more support posts connected to the rail, in which the circumferential area of the rail occupied by the or each post at respective post-rail interfaces is less than the diameter of the rail.
- the area occupied by the or each post may be less than half the diameter of the rail.
- the unoccupied circumference of the rail may be in the range of 110 mm to 200 mm at the or each post-rail interface.
- the unoccupied circumference of the rail may be at least 124 mm at the or each post-rail interface.
- the unoccupied circumference may be determined as a value equating to a circular sector i.e. the post occupies an included arc.
- the post may occupy a sector in the range of 10 degrees to 180 degrees, for example in the ranges of 30 to 120 degrees or 40 to 60 degrees, such as approximately 50 degrees.
- Rails without protrusions and with a generally smooth surface may be preferred.
- a handrail system comprising a top rail and one or more support posts connected to the rail in which the or each post-rail connection interface provides a grip zone so that a user can grip the rail across the interface.
- a hand rail system comprising a top rail and one or more support posts, in which the effective hand grip area of the rail is substantially continuous whereby to provide uninterrupted support along the length of the rail.
- the post-rail interface may be facilitated by a connector which can receive one or more rail sections and connect (directly or indirectly) to a support post.
- the system may therefore comprise connectors for receiving the post/s and for receiving rail sections.
- the connector may be arranged to receive a rail section at either end thereof and to receive the post on its underside (in use).
- the connector may comprise a main body part which both forms part of the top rail and receives a support post in use.
- the top rail connection part may comprise a projection or recess for engaging a corresponding recess or projection on a rail section.
- the rail connection part may be adapted to be flush fitting with a rail section.
- the post connector may include a post adapter received in the connector and being connectable to a support post.
- the post adapter may be hingedly received.
- the post connection part of the rail may comprise a socket for receiving part of a post or a post adapter internally.
- the rail (or rail connector part) may therefore comprise one or more sockets for receiving respective posts (or post adapters).
- the post is therefore fitted into the rail interior which removes the need for an external bracket.
- the articulation part of the joint can thereby be hidden in the top rail moulding. This minimises the trapping risk presented by the rail in use because and allows the rail to be constructed with no sharp corners which might, for example, allow loose clothing to get caught.
- the post connection part may form a hinging joint with the support post.
- the or each post may be connected to the rail by an articulated joint, in which the joint is provided inside the rail.
- the joint is a discreet connection with the articulation part of the joint hidden in the top rail.
- the post and rail can be moved with respect to each other prior to fixing in position and thereafter provides an unobtrusive joint.
- the connector may be adapted to form an integral part of the top rail structure.
- part of the connector effectively forms an intermediate top rail section so that the top rail is not interrupted by the connector.
- connection of the post to the rail may be articulated so that, in use, the rail slope is adjustable. This allows, for example, posts to stay generally vertical whilst the rail can be used for level and sloping applications.
- the connector may comprise a post joint portion hingedly connected to a rail body portion.
- the joint portion therefore serves as a connector between the rail and the main post structure, with the rail body portion effectively forming an integral part of the rail.
- the post may be connected to the rail by a hinge pin.
- the hinge pin permits articulation of the post and rail with respect to each other.
- the rail and post/s may have square cut ends. Simple square cut ends make accurate fabrication simpler and generally give a better quality finish. Configuring the hand rail system so that no sloping cuts or mitre joints are required gives significant production and assembly benefits.
- a handrail connector comprising a top rail connection part attachable to one or more top rail sections and a post connection part attached or attachable to a support post, in which the post connection part is articulated with respect to the rail connection part.
- top rail and/or support post can be inclined to accommodate different underlying surfaces/slopes.
- the connector may comprise a main body part which both forms part of the top rail and receives a support post in use.
- the top rail connection part may comprise a projection or recess for engaging a corresponding recess or projection on a rail section.
- the rail connection part may be adapted to be flush fitting with a rail section.
- the post connection part may comprise a socket for receiving part of a post internally.
- the post connection part may be formed separately from the rail connection part.
- the post connection part may form a joint with the rail connection part.
- the joint between the rail connection part and the post connection part may be made inside the rail connection part.
- the post connection part may form a hinging joint with a, or for a, support post. This means that, in use, the top rail and/or support post can be inclined to accommodate different surfaces.
- the post connector may include a post adapter received in the connector and being connectable to a support post.
- the post adapter may be hingedly received.
- the connector may be adapted to form an integral part of the top rail structure.
- part of the connector effectively forms an intermediate top rail section so that the top rail is not interrupted by the connector.
- the post connection part may be connected to the rail connection part by a hinge pin.
- the hinge pin permits articulation of the post and rail with respect to each other.
- the connector may be generally T-shape.
- the post and rail connector parts may be formed integrally with a post/rail, or may be formed separately and with some means of a stable connection to a post/rail.
- a handrail system comprising one or more top rail sections, one or more support posts and one or more connectors as described herein.
- an adjustable hand rail corner connector part hingedly connectable to another such part and being attachable to further hand rail components, in which the part comprises a cranked portion.
- the crank angle may be in the range of 15° and 30° and in some embodiments is approximately 22.5°.
- the first and second parts of a connector may be substantially the same. This results in substantial cost savings with two parts that can be produced in the same mould.
- the material from which the hand rail system is produced is an important consideration.
- the material from which all of the components of the hand rail system may be the same or, depending on the circumstances may be different.
- Components may, for example, be formed from a synthetic material.
- the synthetic material may comprise a composite material such as an advanced composite.
- the material may comprise a reinforced composite material such as a fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) material, which is a composite material of fibre glass (or other fibre) in a polymer matrix.
- FRP is seen as a particularly suitable material from which to form the hand rail structures of the present invention.
- FRP combines low weight with high strength and provides corrosion resistance and excellent thermal and electrical insulation. Because FRP materials have low thermal conductivity they can have particular benefits when used in cold weather conditions, where they are “warm” to the touch. Other advantageous properties may include low electrical conductivity and electromagnetic transparency.
- the FRP material can be selected on the basis of required properties for the resulting hand rail systems, for example polyester-, epoxy-, and vinyl ester-based materials.
- polyester-, epoxy-, and vinyl ester-based materials for example phenolic-based FRP materials can be used.
- suitable component materials may include bioresins and natural fibres to form a reinforced composite material.
- Phenolic-based FRP materials have presented significant difficulties in production, for example, by pultrusion. However, the inventors have surprisingly found that phenolic-FRP can be used to form hand rail structures which have particularly good fire-resistance properties. Phenolic-based FRP hand rails may have particular benefits for off shore applications, such as oil rigs.
- the material may be provided in various forms for production (for example by moulding) such as sheet moulding compound (SMC) or dough moulding compound (DMC).
- moulding such as sheet moulding compound (SMC) or dough moulding compound (DMC).
- a hand rail system as described herein in combination with a corner connector as described herein.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hand rail arrangement formed according to an aspect of the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a side view of the arrangement of FIG. 1 ;
- FIG. 3 is a side view of a post-to-rail connector forming part of the arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 2 ;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a hand rail arrangement formed according to an alternative aspect of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a side view of the arrangement of FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 6 is a side view of a post-rail connector forming part of the arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 2 with the connector in an inclined position;
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the connector of FIG. 6 ;
- FIG. 8 is a side view of the connector of FIGS. 6 and 7 shown in a straight position
- FIG. 9 is a section of the connector of FIG. 8 taken along line A-A;
- FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-section of a connector formed according to the present invention.
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a hand rail arrangement including a connector formed according to an aspect of the present invention.
- FIG. 12 is a side view of the arrangement of FIG. 11 ;
- FIG. 13A is a side view of the connector of FIGS. 11 and 12 shown in a first position
- FIG. 13B is a side elevation of the connector of FIG. 13A shown in a second position
- FIG. 14 is a an underside perspective view of the connector of FIGS. 13A and 13B ;
- FIG. 15 is a section of the connection of FIG. 13A taken along line A-A;
- FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a rail connection part of the connector of FIGS. 13 to 15 ;
- FIG. 17 is an alternative perspective view of the part of FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 18 is an end elevation of the part of FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 19 is a side elevation of the part of FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 20 is a plan view of the part of FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 21 is an underplan view of the part of FIG. 16 ;
- FIG. 22 is perspective view of a post connection part of the connector of FIGS. 13 to 15 ;
- FIG. 23 is a plan view of the part of FIG. 22 ;
- FIG. 24 is an underplan view of the part of FIG. 22 ;
- FIG. 25 is a front elevation of the part of FIG. 22 ;
- FIG. 26 is a side elevation of the part of FIG. 22 .
- FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a hand rail arrangement formed with a connector according to an alternative aspect of the present invention.
- FIG. 28 is a side view of the arrangement of FIG. 27 ;
- FIG. 29 is a side view of the connector
- FIG. 30 shows top, bottom, front, rear and perspective views of the connector formed according to the present invention.
- FIG. 31 is a perspective view of one part of the connector of FIGS. 29 and 30 ;
- FIG. 32 is a plan view of the connector part of FIG. 31 ;
- FIG. 33 is a plan view of the connector part of FIG. 31 ;
- FIG. 34 is a side view of the connector part of FIG. 31 ;
- FIG. 35 is an end view of the connector part of FIG. 31 .
- FIGS. 1 and 2 there is shown a hand rail system generally indicated 10 .
- the system 10 comprises a rectilinear top rail 15 and a plurality (in this case three are shown) of depending support posts 20 .
- a support leg 25 is connected orthogonally by an articulating connector 30 .
- a cross member 35 extends parallel to the top rail 15 from the leg 25 through the posts 20 ; in some embodiments the cross member 25 may comprise a plurality of sections extending between adjacent posts and between the leg 25 and the adjacent post 20 .
- the top rail 15 is of generally cylindrical shape with a circular cross section and is formed from an FRP material.
- the rail 15 is made up of a number of rail sections 40 which are joined by connectors 45 which also receive the post 20 as described in more detail below.
- Each post 20 is received on the underside of the connector 45 and the connectors 45 are the same diameter as the sections 40 .
- the connector 45 provides a surface which can itself be gripped by a user and the interface between the connector 45 and the adjacent rail sections 40 is such that a user does not need to remove their hand to pass over the intersections. Accordingly, the rail 15 presents a substantially continuous gripping surface along its length.
- the connector 45 is generally T-shape and comprises a rail connector section and a post connector section.
- the rail connector section comprises a central body 50 having at either end a cylindrical dowel portion 55 .
- the dowel portions 55 are dimensioned to fit tightly within the ends of rail sections 40 and each dowel 55 is provided with ribs 60 on their outer surfaces to centralise the fit to ensure a consistent adhesive line thickness.
- the central section 50 includes a socket 65 having a generally rectangular cross section.
- the socket 65 receives a post connector 70 which comprises an articulation leg 75 received in the socket 65 which extends to a post cap 80 from which depends a fixing section 85 .
- the fixing section 85 has a generally square cross section and is provided on its external surface with a plurality of longitudinal ribs 90 .
- the section 85 is received in the top of a post 20 and pushed in until the cap 80 abuts against the end of the post 20 .
- the rail sections 40 are pushed onto the dowels 55 until they abut against the central section 50 .
- the central section 50 has the same cross section and diameter as the rail sections 40 so that there is a flush fit at the intersections.
- the central section 50 is provided with a pin hole 95 and the leg 75 is also provided with a pin hole 100 .
- the holes 95 , 100 are aligned and a hinge pin 105 is passed through to join the leg 75 to the body 50 in a hinging joint. This means that the joint between the body 50 and the legs 75 is articulated so that in use the angle between posts and the hand rail can be varied to accommodate different situations.
- FIGS. 4 and 5 there is shown a hand rail system generally indicated 10 formed according to an alternative aspect.
- the system 10 comprises a rectilinear top rail 15 and a plurality (in this case three are shown) of depending support posts 20 .
- a support leg 25 is connected orthogonally by an articulating connector 30 .
- a cross member 35 extends parallel to the top rail 15 from the leg 25 through the posts 20 ; in some embodiments the cross member 25 may comprise a plurality of sections extending between adjacent posts and between the leg 25 and the adjacent post 20 .
- the top rail 15 is of generally cylindrical shape with a circular cross section.
- the rail 15 is made up of a number of rail sections 40 which are joined by connectors 45 which include a post adapter 70 so that they also receive the post 20 as described in more detail below.
- Each post 20 is received on the underside of the connector 45 .
- the connectors 45 are the same diameter as the sections 40 and the interface region (a) between the post and the rail (described in more detail below) means that the connector 45 provides a surface which can itself be gripped by a user and the interface between the connector 45 and the adjacent rail sections 40 is such that a user does not need to remove their hand to pass over the intersections. Accordingly, the rail 15 presents a substantially continuous gripping surface along its length.
- FIGS. 6 to 9 the post-to-rail joint region is shown in more detail.
- the connector 45 is generally T-shape and comprises a rail connector section 46 and a post connector section 70 .
- the rail connector section 46 comprises a central body 50 having at either end a cylindrical dowel portion 55 .
- the dowel portions 55 are dimensioned to fit tightly within the ends of rail sections 40 and each dowel 55 is provided with ribs 60 on their outer surfaces to centralise the fit to ensure a consistent adhesive line thickness.
- the central section 50 includes a socket 65 having a generally rectangular cross section.
- the socket 65 receives a post connector 70 which comprises an articulation leg 75 received in the socket 65 which extends to a post cap 80 from which depends a fixing section 85 .
- the fixing section 85 has a generally square cross section and is provided on its external surface with a plurality of longitudinal ribs 90 . The section 85 is received in the top of a post 20 and pushed in until the cap 80 abuts against the end of the post 20 .
- the rail sections 40 are pushed onto the dowels 55 until they abut against the central section 50 .
- the central section 50 has the same cross section and diameter as the rail sections 40 so that there is a flush fit at the intersections.
- the central section 50 is provided with a pin hole 95 and the leg 75 is also provided with a pin hole 100 .
- the holes 95 , 100 are aligned and a hinge pin 105 is passed through to join the leg 75 to the body 50 in a hinging joint. This means that the joint between the body 50 and the legs 75 is articulated so that in use the angle between posts and the hand rail can be varied (see FIGS. 3 and 5 , for example) to accommodate different situations.
- the circumferential length of the body 50 occupied by the leg 75 is less than half the diameter of the body. This means that a user can still grip around the body across the post-rail interface. In other words, the circumference of the rail (provided by the body) at the post-rail interface is sufficient for a user to grip around so that the rail can provide uninterrupted grip across the interface.
- the post may be fixed directly to the rail or form an integral part thereof and/or there may be no hinging joint. However, the relationship between extent to which the post occupies the rail is still restricted so that grip can be maintained at the interface.
- FIG. 10 there is a shown a rail connector section 146 and a post 125 connected thereto.
- the section 146 is generally cylindrical and the sector occupied by the post 125 is 52 degrees, leaving 308 degrees available for a user to grip across the post-rail connection region.
- FIGS. 11 and 12 there is shown a hand rail assembly generally indicated 10 formed according to an alternative aspect.
- the assembly 10 comprises a rectilinear top rail 15 and a plurality (in this case three are shown) of depending support posts 20 .
- a support leg 25 is connected orthogonally by an articulating connector 30 .
- a cross member 35 extends parallel to the top rail 15 from the leg 25 through the posts 20 ; in some embodiments the cross member 25 may comprise a plurality of sections extending between adjacent posts and between the leg 25 and the adjacent post 20 .
- the top rail 15 is of generally cylindrical shape with a circular cross section.
- the rail 15 is made up of a number of rail sections 40 which are joined by connectors 45 which also receive the post 20 as described in more detail below.
- Each post 20 is received on the underside of the connector 45 and the connectors 45 are the same diameter as the sections 40 .
- the connector 45 provides a surface which can itself be gripped by a user and the interface between the connector 45 and the adjacent rail sections 40 is such that a user does not need to remove their hand to pass over the intersections. Accordingly, the rail 15 presents a substantially continuous gripping surface along its length.
- FIGS. 13 to 26 the post-to-rail joint connector 45 is shown in more detail.
- the connector 45 is generally T-shape and comprises a generally cylindrical rail connector part 46 and an elongate post connector part 70 .
- the rail connector part 46 comprises a central body 50 having at either end a cylindrical dowel portion 55 , 56 .
- the dowel portions 55 , 56 are dimensioned to fit tightly within the ends of rail sections 40 and each dowel 55 , 56 is provided with circumferential ribs 60 on their outer surfaces to centralise the fit to ensure a consistent adhesive line thickness.
- the central section 50 includes a socket 65 having a generally rectangular cross section.
- the socket 65 is offset from the centre of the section 50 towards the dowel 55 .
- the socket 65 receives the post connector part 70 .
- the post connector part 70 comprises an articulation leg 75 received in the socket 65 and having a semi-circular end 76 with a fixing hole 77 .
- the leg 75 extends to a post cap 80 from which depends a fixing section 85 .
- the fixing section 85 has a generally square cross section and is provided on its external surface with a plurality of longitudinal ribs 90 .
- the section 85 is received in the top of a post 20 and pushed in until the cap 80 abuts against the end of the post 20 in a flush fit.
- the rail sections 40 are pushed onto the dowels 55 , 56 until they abut against the central section 50 .
- the central section 50 has the same cross section and diameter as the rail sections 40 so that there is a flush fit at the intersections.
- the central section 50 is provided with a pin hole 95 and the leg 75 is also provided with a pin hole 77 .
- the holes 95 , 77 are aligned and a hinge pin 105 is passed through to join the leg 75 to the body 50 in a hinging joint.
- FIGS. 27 and 28 there is shown a hand rail system generally indicated 10 formed according to an alternative aspect.
- the system 10 comprises a rectilinear top rail 15 and a plurality (in this case three are shown) of depending support posts 20 .
- a support leg 25 is connected orthogonally by an articulating connector 30 .
- a cross member 35 extends parallel to the top rail 15 from the leg 25 through the posts 20 ; in some embodiments the cross member 25 may comprise a plurality of sections extending between adjacent posts and between the leg 25 and the adjacent post 20 .
- the top rail 15 is of generally cylindrical shape with a circular cross section.
- the rail 15 is made up of a number of rail sections 40 which are joined by connectors 45 which also receive the post 20 as described in more detail below.
- Each post 20 is received on the underside of the connector 45 and the connectors 45 are the same diameter as the sections 40 .
- the connector 45 provides a surface which can itself be gripped by a user and the interface between the connector 45 and the adjacent rail sections 40 is such that a user does not need to remove their hand to pass over the intersections. Accordingly, the rail 15 presents a substantially continuous gripping surface along its length.
- the connector 30 is an articulated joint allowing the connection of adjacent rail sections and/or to connect rail to an end leg.
- the connector 30 comprises two identical parts 50 , 55 fitted together in a mirror-image arrangement.
- each part 50 , 55 (only part 50 is shown FIGS. 31 to 35 ) comprises an articulation section 51 , 56 hingedly connected to each other by a hinge pin 60 .
- Each part also comprises a dowel section 52 , 57 dimensioned to be received in the end of a rail section or end post.
- the articulation sections 51 , 56 are joined to the dowel sections 52 , 57 by cranked sections 53 , 58 .
- the cranked sections 53 , 58 effectively reduce the angle which can be created between the dowel sections 52 , 57 thus “tightening” the joint angle.
- the connector is therefore particularly suited for tight spaces, such as stairwells, where tight turns between adjacent rail sections are required.
- Each dowel section 52 , 57 has a plurality of external longitudinal ribs or splines 54 , 59 which help with fastening the parts onwardly to other hand rail components.
- the articulation section 51 of the part 50 comprises two legs 51 a , 51 b and a claw 51 c which together define a major and minor recess 51 d , 51 e .
- the part 55 is the same shape, when the two parts are brought together the legs of each part interdigitate into the legs and recesses of the other part.
- the crank angle provided by the sections 53 , 58 is approximately 22.5° and allows the creation of a joint between adjacent rail sections of approximately 45°.
- the connector could, of course, be used in conjunction with any hand rail system and is not restricted to the particular class or configuration of hand rail systems specifically described herein.
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates generally to hand rails and particularly to aspects of safety, production and assembly of, and connections of, hand rails.
- Hand rail structures are used in a wide range of circumstances and for a variety of reasons. For example, hand rail structures may be deployed along staircases or walkways to serve as a support for people as they move. Alternatively or additionally hand rail systems can be used as barriers or “fences” to delimit an area.
- There are a variety of considerations when designing a hand rail system, primarily safety aspects but also material choice, production techniques and ease of assembly which will influence the properties and performance of the resulting structure that is in turn dictated by, for example, the final application (such as offshore installations).
- The present invention seeks to provide improvements in or relating to hand rail systems.
- According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a handrail system comprising a top rail and one or more support posts, in which the rail and post/s are formed from a synthetic material.
- The material from which the hand rail system is produced is an important consideration. The material from which all of the components of the hand rail system may be the same or, depending on the circumstances may be different.
- The synthetic material may comprise a composite material such as an advanced composite. For example, the material may comprise a reinforced composite material such as a fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) material, which is a composite material of fibre glass (or other fibre) in a polymer matrix. FRP is seen as a particularly suitable material from which to form the hand rail structures of the present invention. FRP combines low weight with high strength and provides corrosion resistance and excellent thermal and electrical insulation. Because FRP materials have low thermal conductivity they can have particular benefits when used in cold weather conditions, where they are “warm” to the touch. Other advantageous properties may include low electrical conductivity and electromagnetic transparency.
- The FRP material can be selected on the basis of required properties for the resulting hand rail systems, for example polyester-, epoxy-, and vinyl ester-based materials. For example phenolic-based FRP materials can be used. Other suitable component materials may include bioresins and natural fibres to form a reinforced composite material.
- Phenolic-based FRP materials have presented significant difficulties in production, for example, by pultrusion. However, the inventors have surprisingly found that phenolic-FRP can be used to form hand rail structures which have particularly good fire-resistance properties. Phenolic-based FRP hand rails may have particular benefits for off shore applications, such as oil rigs.
- The material may be provided in various forms for production (for example by moulding) such as sheet moulding compound (SMC) or dough moulding compound (DMC).
- The connection of the post to the rail may be articulated so that, in use, the rail slope is adjustable. This allows, for example, posts to stay generally vertical whilst the rail can be used for level and sloping applications.
- The rail may comprise one or more sockets for receiving respective posts. The post is therefore fitted into the rail interior which removes the need for an external bracket. The articulation part of the joint can thereby be hidden in the top rail moulding. This minimises the trapping risk presented by the rail in use because and allows the rail to be constructed with no sharp corners which might, for example, allow loose clothing to get caught.
- The system may comprise connectors for receiving the post/s and for receiving rail sections. The connector may be arranged to receive a rail section at either end thereof and to receive the post on its underside (in use).
- The connector may comprise a post joint portion hingedly connected to a rail body portion. The joint portion therefore serves as a connector between the rail and the main post structure, with the rail body portion effectively forming an integral part of the rail.
- The post joint portion may comprise a post adapter receivable in the rail portion and connectable to a support post.
- The post may be connected to the rail by a hinge pin. The hinge pin permits articulation of the post and rail with respect to each other.
- The rail and post/s may have square cut ends. Simple square cut ends make accurate fabrication simpler and generally give a better quality finish. Configuring the hand rail system so that no sloping cuts or mitre joints are required gives significant production and assembly benefits.
- According to the present invention there is also provided a handrail system comprising a top rail and one or more support posts connected to the rail, in which the or each post-rail connection region is adapted to permit a user to maintain a continuous grip of the rail during a sliding movement across the region.
- This allows provision of a handrail system in which the entire handrail can be gripped i.e. uninterrupted grip can be obtained along the rail rather than having to release grip across post-rail connection regions.
- In known hand rail systems it is usual for posts to connect to the top rail with cumbersome brackets which are of a size, shape and position which forces a user to remove their hand from the hand rail and pass over the bracket to the other side before they can replace their hand. The provision of a “continuous” top rail is an important safety and ergonomic feature. This allows a hand to hold the rail and slide it along continuously as someone is walking. This means that as a person is walking besides the hand rail they do not have to take their hand off. The provision of a continuous hand grip/contact area which is unencumbered by post-rail connections is an important safety feature because the user can be in continual gripping contact with the top rail. This would be particularly important, for example, in the event of a fire or other emergency in which visibility is impaired so that the user can feel their way along the hand rail with no interruptions.
- According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a handrail system comprising a generally cylindrical top rail and one or more support posts connected to the rail, in which the circumferential area of the rail occupied by the or each post at respective post-rail interfaces is less than the diameter of the rail.
- By providing a post-rail interface with a reduced circumferential extent a user is able to grip the rail across the interface.
- The area occupied by the or each post may be less than half the diameter of the rail.
- The unoccupied circumference of the rail may be in the range of 110 mm to 200 mm at the or each post-rail interface. The unoccupied circumference of the rail may be at least 124 mm at the or each post-rail interface. In an alternative interpretation of the invention the unoccupied circumference may be determined as a value equating to a circular sector i.e. the post occupies an included arc. For example, the post may occupy a sector in the range of 10 degrees to 180 degrees, for example in the ranges of 30 to 120 degrees or 40 to 60 degrees, such as approximately 50 degrees.
- Other rail sections may be used, such as elliptical or square with round corners.
- Rails without protrusions and with a generally smooth surface may be preferred.
- According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a handrail system comprising a top rail and one or more support posts connected to the rail in which the or each post-rail connection interface provides a grip zone so that a user can grip the rail across the interface.
- According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a hand rail system comprising a top rail and one or more support posts, in which the effective hand grip area of the rail is substantially continuous whereby to provide uninterrupted support along the length of the rail.
- The post-rail interface may be facilitated by a connector which can receive one or more rail sections and connect (directly or indirectly) to a support post. The system may therefore comprise connectors for receiving the post/s and for receiving rail sections. The connector may be arranged to receive a rail section at either end thereof and to receive the post on its underside (in use).
- The connector may comprise a main body part which both forms part of the top rail and receives a support post in use.
- The top rail connection part may comprise a projection or recess for engaging a corresponding recess or projection on a rail section.
- The rail connection part may be adapted to be flush fitting with a rail section.
- The post connector may include a post adapter received in the connector and being connectable to a support post. The post adapter may be hingedly received.
- The post connection part of the rail may comprise a socket for receiving part of a post or a post adapter internally. The rail (or rail connector part) may therefore comprise one or more sockets for receiving respective posts (or post adapters). The post is therefore fitted into the rail interior which removes the need for an external bracket. The articulation part of the joint can thereby be hidden in the top rail moulding. This minimises the trapping risk presented by the rail in use because and allows the rail to be constructed with no sharp corners which might, for example, allow loose clothing to get caught.
- The post connection part may form a hinging joint with the support post. This means that, in use, the top rail and/or support post can be inclined to accommodate different surfaces. The or each post may be connected to the rail by an articulated joint, in which the joint is provided inside the rail. In other words, the joint is a discreet connection with the articulation part of the joint hidden in the top rail. The post and rail can be moved with respect to each other prior to fixing in position and thereafter provides an unobtrusive joint.
- The connector may be adapted to form an integral part of the top rail structure. In some embodiments part of the connector effectively forms an intermediate top rail section so that the top rail is not interrupted by the connector.
- The connection of the post to the rail may be articulated so that, in use, the rail slope is adjustable. This allows, for example, posts to stay generally vertical whilst the rail can be used for level and sloping applications.
- The connector may comprise a post joint portion hingedly connected to a rail body portion. The joint portion therefore serves as a connector between the rail and the main post structure, with the rail body portion effectively forming an integral part of the rail.
- The post may be connected to the rail by a hinge pin. The hinge pin permits articulation of the post and rail with respect to each other.
- The rail and post/s may have square cut ends. Simple square cut ends make accurate fabrication simpler and generally give a better quality finish. Configuring the hand rail system so that no sloping cuts or mitre joints are required gives significant production and assembly benefits.
- According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a handrail connector comprising a top rail connection part attachable to one or more top rail sections and a post connection part attached or attachable to a support post, in which the post connection part is articulated with respect to the rail connection part.
- This means that, in use, the top rail and/or support post can be inclined to accommodate different underlying surfaces/slopes.
- The connector may comprise a main body part which both forms part of the top rail and receives a support post in use.
- The top rail connection part may comprise a projection or recess for engaging a corresponding recess or projection on a rail section.
- The rail connection part may be adapted to be flush fitting with a rail section.
- The post connection part may comprise a socket for receiving part of a post internally. The post connection part may be formed separately from the rail connection part.
- The post connection part may form a joint with the rail connection part. The joint between the rail connection part and the post connection part may be made inside the rail connection part.
- The post connection part may form a hinging joint with a, or for a, support post. This means that, in use, the top rail and/or support post can be inclined to accommodate different surfaces.
- The post connector may include a post adapter received in the connector and being connectable to a support post. The post adapter may be hingedly received.
- The connector may be adapted to form an integral part of the top rail structure. In some embodiments part of the connector effectively forms an intermediate top rail section so that the top rail is not interrupted by the connector.
- The post connection part may be connected to the rail connection part by a hinge pin. The hinge pin permits articulation of the post and rail with respect to each other.
- The connector may be generally T-shape.
- The post and rail connector parts may be formed integrally with a post/rail, or may be formed separately and with some means of a stable connection to a post/rail.
- According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a handrail system comprising one or more top rail sections, one or more support posts and one or more connectors as described herein.
- According to a further aspect there is provided an adjustable hand rail corner connector part hingedly connectable to another such part and being attachable to further hand rail components, in which the part comprises a cranked portion.
- The crank angle may be in the range of 15° and 30° and in some embodiments is approximately 22.5°.
- The first and second parts of a connector may be substantially the same. This results in substantial cost savings with two parts that can be produced in the same mould.
- The material from which the hand rail system is produced is an important consideration. The material from which all of the components of the hand rail system may be the same or, depending on the circumstances may be different.
- Components may, for example, be formed from a synthetic material. The synthetic material may comprise a composite material such as an advanced composite. For example, the material may comprise a reinforced composite material such as a fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) material, which is a composite material of fibre glass (or other fibre) in a polymer matrix. FRP is seen as a particularly suitable material from which to form the hand rail structures of the present invention. FRP combines low weight with high strength and provides corrosion resistance and excellent thermal and electrical insulation. Because FRP materials have low thermal conductivity they can have particular benefits when used in cold weather conditions, where they are “warm” to the touch. Other advantageous properties may include low electrical conductivity and electromagnetic transparency.
- The FRP material can be selected on the basis of required properties for the resulting hand rail systems, for example polyester-, epoxy-, and vinyl ester-based materials. For example phenolic-based FRP materials can be used. Other suitable component materials may include bioresins and natural fibres to form a reinforced composite material.
- Phenolic-based FRP materials have presented significant difficulties in production, for example, by pultrusion. However, the inventors have surprisingly found that phenolic-FRP can be used to form hand rail structures which have particularly good fire-resistance properties. Phenolic-based FRP hand rails may have particular benefits for off shore applications, such as oil rigs.
- The material may be provided in various forms for production (for example by moulding) such as sheet moulding compound (SMC) or dough moulding compound (DMC).
- According to a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a hand rail system as described herein in combination with a corner connector as described herein.
- All combinations of the different aspects and embodiments are envisaged.
- The present invention will now be more particularly described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a hand rail arrangement formed according to an aspect of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a side view of the arrangement ofFIG. 1 ; -
FIG. 3 is a side view of a post-to-rail connector forming part of the arrangement ofFIGS. 1 and 2 ; -
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a hand rail arrangement formed according to an alternative aspect of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is a side view of the arrangement ofFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 6 is a side view of a post-rail connector forming part of the arrangement ofFIGS. 1 and 2 with the connector in an inclined position; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the connector ofFIG. 6 ; -
FIG. 8 is a side view of the connector ofFIGS. 6 and 7 shown in a straight position; -
FIG. 9 is a section of the connector ofFIG. 8 taken along line A-A; -
FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-section of a connector formed according to the present invention; -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a hand rail arrangement including a connector formed according to an aspect of the present invention; -
FIG. 12 is a side view of the arrangement ofFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 13A is a side view of the connector ofFIGS. 11 and 12 shown in a first position; -
FIG. 13B is a side elevation of the connector ofFIG. 13A shown in a second position; -
FIG. 14 is a an underside perspective view of the connector ofFIGS. 13A and 13B ; -
FIG. 15 is a section of the connection ofFIG. 13A taken along line A-A; -
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a rail connection part of the connector ofFIGS. 13 to 15 ; -
FIG. 17 is an alternative perspective view of the part ofFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 18 is an end elevation of the part ofFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 19 is a side elevation of the part ofFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 20 is a plan view of the part ofFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 21 is an underplan view of the part ofFIG. 16 ; -
FIG. 22 is perspective view of a post connection part of the connector ofFIGS. 13 to 15 ; -
FIG. 23 is a plan view of the part ofFIG. 22 ; -
FIG. 24 is an underplan view of the part ofFIG. 22 ; -
FIG. 25 is a front elevation of the part ofFIG. 22 ; and -
FIG. 26 is a side elevation of the part ofFIG. 22 . -
FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a hand rail arrangement formed with a connector according to an alternative aspect of the present invention; -
FIG. 28 is a side view of the arrangement ofFIG. 27 ; -
FIG. 29 is a side view of the connector; -
FIG. 30 shows top, bottom, front, rear and perspective views of the connector formed according to the present invention; -
FIG. 31 is a perspective view of one part of the connector ofFIGS. 29 and 30 ; -
FIG. 32 is a plan view of the connector part ofFIG. 31 ; -
FIG. 33 is a plan view of the connector part ofFIG. 31 ; -
FIG. 34 is a side view of the connector part ofFIG. 31 ; and -
FIG. 35 is an end view of the connector part ofFIG. 31 . - Referring first to
FIGS. 1 and 2 there is shown a hand rail system generally indicated 10. Thesystem 10 comprises a rectilineartop rail 15 and a plurality (in this case three are shown) of depending support posts 20. At one end of the rail 15 asupport leg 25 is connected orthogonally by an articulatingconnector 30. Across member 35 extends parallel to thetop rail 15 from theleg 25 through theposts 20; in some embodiments thecross member 25 may comprise a plurality of sections extending between adjacent posts and between theleg 25 and theadjacent post 20. - The
top rail 15 is of generally cylindrical shape with a circular cross section and is formed from an FRP material. Therail 15 is made up of a number ofrail sections 40 which are joined byconnectors 45 which also receive thepost 20 as described in more detail below. Eachpost 20 is received on the underside of theconnector 45 and theconnectors 45 are the same diameter as thesections 40. This means that theconnector 45 provides a surface which can itself be gripped by a user and the interface between theconnector 45 and theadjacent rail sections 40 is such that a user does not need to remove their hand to pass over the intersections. Accordingly, therail 15 presents a substantially continuous gripping surface along its length. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 the post-to-rail connector 45 is shown in more detail. - The
connector 45 is generally T-shape and comprises a rail connector section and a post connector section. The rail connector section comprises acentral body 50 having at either end acylindrical dowel portion 55. Thedowel portions 55 are dimensioned to fit tightly within the ends ofrail sections 40 and eachdowel 55 is provided withribs 60 on their outer surfaces to centralise the fit to ensure a consistent adhesive line thickness. - The
central section 50 includes asocket 65 having a generally rectangular cross section. - The
socket 65 receives apost connector 70 which comprises anarticulation leg 75 received in thesocket 65 which extends to apost cap 80 from which depends a fixingsection 85. The fixingsection 85 has a generally square cross section and is provided on its external surface with a plurality oflongitudinal ribs 90. Thesection 85 is received in the top of apost 20 and pushed in until thecap 80 abuts against the end of thepost 20. Therail sections 40 are pushed onto thedowels 55 until they abut against thecentral section 50. Thecentral section 50 has the same cross section and diameter as therail sections 40 so that there is a flush fit at the intersections. - The
central section 50 is provided with apin hole 95 and theleg 75 is also provided with apin hole 100. Theholes hinge pin 105 is passed through to join theleg 75 to thebody 50 in a hinging joint. This means that the joint between thebody 50 and thelegs 75 is articulated so that in use the angle between posts and the hand rail can be varied to accommodate different situations. - Referring now to
FIGS. 4 and 5 there is shown a hand rail system generally indicated 10 formed according to an alternative aspect. Thesystem 10 comprises a rectilineartop rail 15 and a plurality (in this case three are shown) of depending support posts 20. At one end of the rail 15 asupport leg 25 is connected orthogonally by an articulatingconnector 30. Across member 35 extends parallel to thetop rail 15 from theleg 25 through theposts 20; in some embodiments thecross member 25 may comprise a plurality of sections extending between adjacent posts and between theleg 25 and theadjacent post 20. - The
top rail 15 is of generally cylindrical shape with a circular cross section. Therail 15 is made up of a number ofrail sections 40 which are joined byconnectors 45 which include apost adapter 70 so that they also receive thepost 20 as described in more detail below. Eachpost 20 is received on the underside of theconnector 45. Theconnectors 45 are the same diameter as thesections 40 and the interface region (a) between the post and the rail (described in more detail below) means that theconnector 45 provides a surface which can itself be gripped by a user and the interface between theconnector 45 and theadjacent rail sections 40 is such that a user does not need to remove their hand to pass over the intersections. Accordingly, therail 15 presents a substantially continuous gripping surface along its length. - Referring now to
FIGS. 6 to 9 the post-to-rail joint region is shown in more detail. - The
connector 45 is generally T-shape and comprises arail connector section 46 and apost connector section 70. Therail connector section 46 comprises acentral body 50 having at either end acylindrical dowel portion 55. Thedowel portions 55 are dimensioned to fit tightly within the ends ofrail sections 40 and eachdowel 55 is provided withribs 60 on their outer surfaces to centralise the fit to ensure a consistent adhesive line thickness. - The
central section 50 includes asocket 65 having a generally rectangular cross section. - The
socket 65 receives apost connector 70 which comprises anarticulation leg 75 received in thesocket 65 which extends to apost cap 80 from which depends a fixingsection 85. The fixingsection 85 has a generally square cross section and is provided on its external surface with a plurality oflongitudinal ribs 90. Thesection 85 is received in the top of apost 20 and pushed in until thecap 80 abuts against the end of thepost 20. - The
rail sections 40 are pushed onto thedowels 55 until they abut against thecentral section 50. Thecentral section 50 has the same cross section and diameter as therail sections 40 so that there is a flush fit at the intersections. - The
central section 50 is provided with apin hole 95 and theleg 75 is also provided with apin hole 100. Theholes hinge pin 105 is passed through to join theleg 75 to thebody 50 in a hinging joint. This means that the joint between thebody 50 and thelegs 75 is articulated so that in use the angle between posts and the hand rail can be varied (seeFIGS. 3 and 5 , for example) to accommodate different situations. - As shown best in
FIG. 9 , the circumferential length of thebody 50 occupied by theleg 75 is less than half the diameter of the body. This means that a user can still grip around the body across the post-rail interface. In other words, the circumference of the rail (provided by the body) at the post-rail interface is sufficient for a user to grip around so that the rail can provide uninterrupted grip across the interface. - In other embodiments (not shown) the post may be fixed directly to the rail or form an integral part thereof and/or there may be no hinging joint. However, the relationship between extent to which the post occupies the rail is still restricted so that grip can be maintained at the interface.
- Referring now to
FIG. 10 there is a shown arail connector section 146 and apost 125 connected thereto. - The
section 146 is generally cylindrical and the sector occupied by thepost 125 is 52 degrees, leaving 308 degrees available for a user to grip across the post-rail connection region. - Referring now to
FIGS. 11 and 12 there is shown a hand rail assembly generally indicated 10 formed according to an alternative aspect. Theassembly 10 comprises a rectilineartop rail 15 and a plurality (in this case three are shown) of depending support posts 20. At one end of the rail 15 asupport leg 25 is connected orthogonally by an articulatingconnector 30. Across member 35 extends parallel to thetop rail 15 from theleg 25 through theposts 20; in some embodiments thecross member 25 may comprise a plurality of sections extending between adjacent posts and between theleg 25 and theadjacent post 20. - The
top rail 15 is of generally cylindrical shape with a circular cross section. Therail 15 is made up of a number ofrail sections 40 which are joined byconnectors 45 which also receive thepost 20 as described in more detail below. Eachpost 20 is received on the underside of theconnector 45 and theconnectors 45 are the same diameter as thesections 40. This means that theconnector 45 provides a surface which can itself be gripped by a user and the interface between theconnector 45 and theadjacent rail sections 40 is such that a user does not need to remove their hand to pass over the intersections. Accordingly, therail 15 presents a substantially continuous gripping surface along its length. - Referring now to
FIGS. 13 to 26 the post-to-rail joint connector 45 is shown in more detail. - The
connector 45 is generally T-shape and comprises a generally cylindricalrail connector part 46 and an elongatepost connector part 70. - The
rail connector part 46 comprises acentral body 50 having at either end acylindrical dowel portion dowel portions rail sections 40 and eachdowel circumferential ribs 60 on their outer surfaces to centralise the fit to ensure a consistent adhesive line thickness. - The
central section 50 includes asocket 65 having a generally rectangular cross section. Thesocket 65 is offset from the centre of thesection 50 towards thedowel 55. - The
socket 65 receives thepost connector part 70. - The
post connector part 70 comprises anarticulation leg 75 received in thesocket 65 and having asemi-circular end 76 with a fixinghole 77. Theleg 75 extends to apost cap 80 from which depends a fixingsection 85. The fixingsection 85 has a generally square cross section and is provided on its external surface with a plurality oflongitudinal ribs 90. Thesection 85 is received in the top of apost 20 and pushed in until thecap 80 abuts against the end of thepost 20 in a flush fit. - In use the
rail sections 40 are pushed onto thedowels central section 50. Thecentral section 50 has the same cross section and diameter as therail sections 40 so that there is a flush fit at the intersections. - The
central section 50 is provided with apin hole 95 and theleg 75 is also provided with apin hole 77. Theholes hinge pin 105 is passed through to join theleg 75 to thebody 50 in a hinging joint. - This means that the joint between the
body 50 and theleg 75 is articulated so that in use the angle between posts (via post connectors) and the hand rail can be varied as illustrated byFIGS. 13A and 13B to accommodate different situations. - Referring now to
FIGS. 27 and 28 there is shown a hand rail system generally indicated 10 formed according to an alternative aspect. Thesystem 10 comprises a rectilineartop rail 15 and a plurality (in this case three are shown) of depending support posts 20. At one end of the rail 15 asupport leg 25 is connected orthogonally by an articulatingconnector 30. Across member 35 extends parallel to thetop rail 15 from theleg 25 through theposts 20; in some embodiments thecross member 25 may comprise a plurality of sections extending between adjacent posts and between theleg 25 and theadjacent post 20. - The
top rail 15 is of generally cylindrical shape with a circular cross section. Therail 15 is made up of a number ofrail sections 40 which are joined byconnectors 45 which also receive thepost 20 as described in more detail below. Eachpost 20 is received on the underside of theconnector 45 and theconnectors 45 are the same diameter as thesections 40. This means that theconnector 45 provides a surface which can itself be gripped by a user and the interface between theconnector 45 and theadjacent rail sections 40 is such that a user does not need to remove their hand to pass over the intersections. Accordingly, therail 15 presents a substantially continuous gripping surface along its length. - Referring now to
FIGS. 29 and 30 theconnector 30 is an articulated joint allowing the connection of adjacent rail sections and/or to connect rail to an end leg. - In this embodiment the
connector 30 comprises twoidentical parts - As shown in more detail in
FIGS. 31 to 35 eachpart 50, 55 (onlypart 50 is shownFIGS. 31 to 35 ) comprises anarticulation section hinge pin 60. Each part also comprises adowel section articulation sections dowel sections sections sections dowel sections - Each
dowel section - As shown best in
FIGS. 31 to 33 , thearticulation section 51 of thepart 50 comprises twolegs 51 a, 51 b and aclaw 51 c which together define a major andminor recess 51 d, 51 e. Because thepart 55 is the same shape, when the two parts are brought together the legs of each part interdigitate into the legs and recesses of the other part. In this embodiment the crank angle provided by thesections - The connector could, of course, be used in conjunction with any hand rail system and is not restricted to the particular class or configuration of hand rail systems specifically described herein.
Claims (21)
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
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GB1002004.8A GB2477555B (en) | 2010-02-08 | 2010-02-08 | Improvements in or relating to hand rails |
GB1002004.8 | 2010-02-08 | ||
PCT/GB2011/000137 WO2011095770A1 (en) | 2010-02-08 | 2011-02-02 | Improvements in or relating to hand rails |
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PCT/GB2011/000137 A-371-Of-International WO2011095770A1 (en) | 2010-02-08 | 2011-02-02 | Improvements in or relating to hand rails |
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JP2015175109A (en) * | 2014-03-13 | 2015-10-05 | パナソニックIpマネジメント株式会社 | Assistive device |
JP2015190158A (en) * | 2014-03-27 | 2015-11-02 | 昭和鉄工株式会社 | Pipe connection joint structure and pipe connection method |
US20190292790A1 (en) * | 2016-12-01 | 2019-09-26 | Wilhelm Layher Verwaltungs-Gmbh | Handrail for scaffolding structures |
US20210017787A1 (en) * | 2018-03-15 | 2021-01-21 | Beyond Architectural Pty Ltd | Frameless glass fencing component |
US11174645B2 (en) * | 2019-07-02 | 2021-11-16 | The Landmark Group, Inc. | Elbow joint connector |
US11560719B2 (en) * | 2019-07-11 | 2023-01-24 | Homecare Products, Inc. | Elbow assembly for ramp and platform assembly |
WO2023033907A1 (en) * | 2021-08-30 | 2023-03-09 | Ronald Allen | Rackable railing assembly |
USD991023S1 (en) | 2017-12-21 | 2023-07-04 | Lustre Products Ltd. | Modular rail system connector |
US11739536B2 (en) * | 2017-12-19 | 2023-08-29 | Lustre Products Ltd. | Modular rail system |
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US11891831B1 (en) | 2018-07-17 | 2024-02-06 | Ameristar Perimeter Security Usa Inc. | Infill-covered barrier |
KR102219188B1 (en) * | 2019-03-18 | 2021-02-23 | 김현구 | Easily adjustable railing connection |
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JP2015175109A (en) * | 2014-03-13 | 2015-10-05 | パナソニックIpマネジメント株式会社 | Assistive device |
JP2015190158A (en) * | 2014-03-27 | 2015-11-02 | 昭和鉄工株式会社 | Pipe connection joint structure and pipe connection method |
US11649637B2 (en) * | 2016-12-01 | 2023-05-16 | Wilhelm Layher Verwaltungs-Gmbh | Handrail for scaffolding structures |
US20190292790A1 (en) * | 2016-12-01 | 2019-09-26 | Wilhelm Layher Verwaltungs-Gmbh | Handrail for scaffolding structures |
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US11802410B2 (en) | 2021-08-30 | 2023-10-31 | Ronald P. Allen | Rackable railing assembly |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
GB201101831D0 (en) | 2011-03-16 |
EP2534319A1 (en) | 2012-12-19 |
GB201101828D0 (en) | 2011-03-16 |
US11339575B2 (en) | 2022-05-24 |
US10968637B2 (en) | 2021-04-06 |
GB2477433A (en) | 2011-08-03 |
MY157980A (en) | 2016-08-19 |
BR112012019908A2 (en) | 2020-09-01 |
GB201101830D0 (en) | 2011-03-16 |
GB201101826D0 (en) | 2011-03-16 |
GB2487174A (en) | 2012-07-11 |
WO2011095770A1 (en) | 2011-08-11 |
GB2477434A (en) | 2011-08-03 |
GB2477636A (en) | 2011-08-10 |
KR20120116495A (en) | 2012-10-22 |
BR112012019908B1 (en) | 2021-05-18 |
GB201208661D0 (en) | 2012-06-27 |
GB2477635B (en) | 2011-12-21 |
GB2487174B (en) | 2012-08-29 |
NO346264B1 (en) | 2022-05-16 |
US20170298633A1 (en) | 2017-10-19 |
EP3467232A2 (en) | 2019-04-10 |
GB2477555A (en) | 2011-08-10 |
GB201002004D0 (en) | 2010-03-24 |
GB2477433B (en) | 2011-12-21 |
US20190136540A1 (en) | 2019-05-09 |
GB2477635A (en) | 2011-08-10 |
GB2477555B (en) | 2011-12-21 |
GB2477434B (en) | 2011-12-21 |
NO20121009A1 (en) | 2012-09-07 |
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