WO2024206990A1

WO2024206990A1 - Deck for use in construction

Info

Publication number: WO2024206990A1
Application number: PCT/US2024/022493
Authority: WO
Inventors: Derek KERSTETTER; Eric B SNELL
Original assignee: Kerstetter Derek
Priority date: 2023-03-30
Filing date: 2024-04-01
Publication date: 2024-10-03

Abstract

A deck for use in construction, the deck comprising: one or more stationary support structure modules including at least a first box tube, a second box tube disposed parallel to the first box tube, and one or more support cross-beams, the one or more stationary support structure modules being configured to removably couple to each other to create a combined support structure being positionable entirely within an edge of a floor of a building: a hoist mounted on the combined support structure such that the hoist is operable to project from inside the edge of the floor to a point beyond the edge of the floor for lifting one or more loads.

Description

DECK FOR USE IN CONSTRUCTION

PRIORITY CLAIM

[OO01| This application claims priority to and/or the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application serial number 63/455,912 filed March 30, 2023. The foregoing application is incoiporated by reference in its entirety as if fully set forth herein. FIELD OF TH E INVENTION

[0002| f his invention relates generally to systems, devices, and methods for the assembly and use of an extendable deck for use in construction.

SUMMARY

[00031 This invention relates generally to systems, devices, and methods for the assembly and use of an extendable deck for use in construction. Specific details of certain embodiments of the invention are set forth in the following description and in the figures to provide a thorough understanding of such embodiments. The present invention may have additional embodiments, may be practiced without one or more of the details described for any particular described embodiment, or may have any detail described for one particular embodiment practiced with any other detail described for another embodiment.

[0004I For example, in one embodiment, the invention may be comprised of a deck for use in construction, the deck comprising: a stationary support structure including at least a first box tube and a second box rube positioned parallel to the first box tube, the stationary support structure being positionable entirely within an edge of a floor of a building; wherein the first box tube is further comprised of two wheel catches where one wheel catch is positioned at a first end of a top face of the first box tube and one wheel catch is positioned at second end of a top face of the first box tube, and wherein the second box tube is further comprised of two wheel catches where one wheel catch is positioned at a first end of a top face of the second box tube and one wheel catch is positioned at second end of a top face of the second box tube; a connector extending between said first box tube and said second box tube; a first extension member disposed within the first box tube and being operable to retractably extend from the first box tube; a second extension member disposed within the second box tube and being operable to retractably extend from the second box tube; and a platform connected to the two extension members having at least two wheels wherein at least one wheel is positioned on a first side of the platform and is configured to roll along the top face of the first box tube, and at least one wheel is positioned parallel to the first wheel on a second side of die platform and is configured to roll along the top face of the second box tube; and wherein the platform is operable to retractably extend at least partly beyond the edge of the floor in conjunction with the first extension member and the second extension member.

[0005| For example, the deck can be placed near an edge of a floor of a building under construction such that a platform, configured to be slidable, attached to the deck can be extended out beyond the edge of the floor of the bu ilding and a load can be placed on the slidable platform, which can then be retracted into the floor of the building. The slidable platform can be extended beyond the edge of the floor to facilitate access to the load by a hoist, lift, crane, or other Similar system. The slidable platform can then be retracted within the edge of the floor to faci litate removal of the load onto the floor. The platform, in some embodiments, is connected to the extension members at the distal end thereof nearest the edge of the building, typically by a plate or pylon that is connected to the ends of the platform and each extension members, such that when the plate is pushed outward by the extension members it pulls the platform with it, however in other embodiments the connection may differ, and in some embodiments the platform may not make contact with the sides of the box tubes due to a gap between the platform and box tubes. The box tabes may be of varying lengths depending on the needs of the embodiment, with some extending away from the platform while others may be approximately the same length of the platform, or shorter than the platform.

T his deck and slidable platform can improve safety because the slidable platform and the deck can be maintained substantially entirely within the edge of the floor when not in use so as to limit their interference, 'fhe deck and slidable platform also improve efficiency because a crane, hoist, or other lifting method would not have to be built to avoid the decks, and instead can lift anywhere along the side of a building; any decks that would interfere with the lifting means can be retracted in order to avoid such interference. Furthermore, the design of the deck and platform can increase the amount of weight the platform can cany and also limit the need for shore posts. This can permit the deck and slidable platform to be used in situations where there is no top structure, such as on a roof, or when the top structure has limited strength. Other uses of the deck and slidable platform are possible. For example, the deck and slidable platform can be used proximate to a hole instead of near a building edge. The deck and slidable platform are not limited to building construction either and could be utilized in underground or above-ground mining operations, with rock faces or scaffolding functioning as the floor of a building. Furthermore, the deck and platform can include additional structures as disclosed herein, such as an integrated hoist and/or a basket that can include an integrated version of the deck. [00071 Depending on the embodiment, the stationary support structure may have one or more connectors comprised of beams or pylons extending between the first and second box tubes, designed to connect the two and keep them stationary and parallel during operation. In some embodiments, the connector is placed at the far end of the box tubes near the edge of a building, while in others it may be placed earlier or medial. In some embodiments, there may be multiple connectors.

[0008] The slidable platform can include a hoist and basket device wherein the hoist and basket are comprised of a predominantly rectangular basket with a connection mechanism on a top side allowing it to be connected to a hoist attached to the deck. The hoist device can also potentially include a deck, and in some embodiments the frame of the hoist device would be configured to be modular, such that the stationary support structure that runs parallel to the ground would be composed of one or more segments where adding additional segments increases the length of the stationary support structure. In some embodiments, the hoist device may be modular, such that the frame can be disassembled into smaller, portable components. [0009] In one embodiment, the at least two wheels roll along the top surface of the first box tube and second box tube respectively, wherein the platform is operable to retractably extend beyond an edge of the floor in conjunction with the first and second extension members in response to actuation. Depending on the needs of the embodiment, such actuation may be accomplished via a hydraulic cylinder, electric or other fuel motor, a user pushing on the deck, or other similar means.

[0010] In some embodiments of the invention, the placement of the wheels onto the box tubes achieves the added result of removing weight from the support structure and instead placing it on the box tubes, meaning that the invention can still function on ground that is incomplete or unstable. By way of example, were there a crack or fissure in a portion on the bottom of the platform that would rol l as it extended would not function properly as the wheel would be unable to roll due to the fissure or crack. Moving the wheels to the box tubes resolves this, while also distributing the weight more evenly by dividing it in half amongst the box tubes rather than placing the bulk of the weight on the wheel on the platform. In the same example, the box tubes could be placed on either side of the crack or fissure, reducing risk of exacerbating it. Similarly, this feature allows the platform to be elevated so that it is unhindered by debris or obstructions on a floor, such as a lip at the edge thereof. By moving the wheels, the support structure does not necessarily require a base plate beneath the device to stabilize it, resulting a lighter device. In addition to the foregoing, the system has less need for a counterweight than similar systems, thus further reducing weight and assembly complexity.

[00111 In addition, the wheel catches function as an alignment guide when the device is being installed at a site, by allowing a user to clearly see if all the components have been assembled correctly. This further increases safety, as previous embodiments and similar devices lack such a feature, resulting in certain components being out of view when assembled and thus difficult to confirm if they were correctly assembled and aligned.

[0012| In another embodiment, such as, but not limited to, one wherein weight is limited, the deck may be further comprised of at least one scale. In another embodiment, the deck further includes, but is not limited to, at least one shore post that extends from the stationary support structure and can be configured to extend up to a ceiling or scaffold above the deck to provide counterforce against weight placed on a deck.

[0013| Depending on the embodiment, the deck wheel catches may be configured as small substantially cuboid structures with one or more faces omitted wherein the wheel catches are configured to catch the wheels of the platform as they roll along the top faces of the box tubes, thereby preventing the wheels from rolling off the box tubes. Put in layman's terms, the wheel catches can function like a “garage" for the wheels and may be positioned on either or both ends of the box tubes, so that there is a guard on either end. Such catches may be configured as a single flange that the wheel will roll into and be unable to proceed further or withdraw from without applying an alternative motion. In other embodiments, the wheel catches may be one or more openings in the top surfaces of the box tubes wherein the wheels will roll and become unable to further extend. In further embodiments, die wheel catches may be a groove, indentation, or similar deformation of the top surfaces of the box tubes wherein the wheels of the platform will roll and become unable to roil further. In some embodiments, the wheel catches may be removably coupled to the box tubes, and or may be movable and lockable in place, allowing a user to designate a maximum roll distance and by extension a maximum extension distance for the extension members and platform. In some embodiments, the wheel catches may be reinforced such that they will remain affixed to the box tubes and not break when impacted by the wheels of the platform.

[00141 The wheel catches may be configured to lock once the wheel enters them. preventing the wheel from leaving the catch or in some embodiments requiring that the catch be released or some other motion out of the ordinary be applied to the wheels to release them from the catch.

[00151 fhe wheel catches serve additional safety functions. In some embodiments, the wheel catches may be redundant as the wheels will naturally be limited to only roll as far as the platform is capable of extending from the deck, however the wheel catches can ensure that the platform does not extend beyond a certain point to prevent collision between the platform and hazards. Similarly, wheel catches placed at the starting end can ensure safety during transport by keeping the wheels from moving when the device is not extended, and/or by protecting the wheels from debris or damage when not in use.

[0016| In another embodiment, the deck further includes, but is not limited to, at least one counterweight receptacle coupled to the stationary support structure that is operable to removably receive one or more counterweights. In some embodiments, the counterweight receptacle may be integrated into the stationary support structure and may further include, but is not limited to, one or more removable counterweights.

[00171 In another embodiment, the deck further includes, but is not limited to, a ramp, which may be configured to fold-away, coupled, removably or not depending on the embodiment, to the stationary support structure or platform that is operable to facilitate transfer of one or more loads with respect to the platform. Depending on the embodiment, the ramp may be integrated onto the stationary support structure and. or the platform and may be configured to rotate upwards to form a guardrail for one or more sides of the stationary support structure and or platform. In some embodiments, the ramp may be removably coupled to the stationary support structure and/or platform or may be permanently affixed. Further, in some embodiments, the raising of the ramp may be assisted by a motor. In some embodiments, the ramp may be coupled to the platform or stationary support structure such that the ramp floats relative to the ground, and in such embodiments may be removable.

[0018] In another embodiment, the deck further includes, but is not limited to, at least one guard rail associated with the platform. In some embodiments the guard rail (or rails) may also be separated into two or more pieces that can be swung or slid away from each other to create a temporary door. In some embodiments, the guardrail may be configured as a handrail, and may be atached to the platform. For some embodiments, the handrails may be attached to one or more sides of the platform, and may be attached by a variety of means, such as brackets or may be directly affixed to the platform. However, in other embodiments, the guardrail configured as a handrail may be attached by a hinge, permiting the handrail to pivot under certain conditions.

[0019] In another embodiment, the deck further includes, but Is not limited to, a hoist mounted on the stationary support structure such that the hoist is operable to project from inside the edge of the floor to a point beyond the edge of the floor for l ifting one or more loads. The hoist may include at least a mast mounted on the stationary support structure and at least one boom that projects from the mast or the stationary support structure. The hoist may also include a luffing device that extends from the mast to the at least one boom for adjusting pitch or angle of the at least one boom. The hoist may be further comprised of, but is not limited to, a luffing device including at least one of a hydraulic cylinder or a cable. In such embodiments the cylinder or cable may be the last structure before the hoist’s line, or it may be integrated into a stabilization structure for the hoist. The hoist component may be height adjustable relative to the stationary support structure, position adjustable along a length of the stationary support structure, and or removably mounted on the stationary support structure. |0020| In another embodiment, the hoist component of the deck further includes, but is not limited to a winch; a sheave; a cable that extends from the winch over the sheave: and an overhaul ball coupled to the cable.

[0021| In one embodiment a deck for use in construction is provided, the deck including, but not limited to at least one fixed member positionable on a floor of a building. the at least one fixed member including at least one drive mechanism coupled thereto or disposed therein; at least one extension member that is coupled to the at least one drive mechanism, the at least one extension member operable to retractably extend from the at least one fixed member beyond an edge of the floor in response to actuation of the at least one drive mechanism; and a platform that is detached from the at least one fixed member and that is coupled to the at least one extension member such that the platform is operable to retractably extend beyond the edge of the floor in conjunction with the at least one extension member.

[0022| For some examples of the invention, the platform is further comprised of wheels that may be located on the side(s) of the platform and configured to rol l along the tops of the box tubes, such that the weight, of the load is at least partially placed on said wheels. In some embodiments there may be a wear pad or other track built onto the top surface or other surfaces of the box tubes to facilitate such movement and/or reduce wear on the top surface or other surfaces of the box tubes. The wheels may be a variety of configurations, and in some variations may be motorized or otherwise powered. The wheels may be located in wheel structures that facilitate in their positioning and said wheels and/or wheel structures may be located anywhere along the platform, emerging upward to reach the higher box tubes if necessary. In some embodiments the wheels and/or wheel structures are located on the side of the platform at the rear, while in others they may be located in the middle of the sides, the front of the sides, or any configuration thereof, including being located at various other positions along said sides. Depending on the embodiment, there may be multiple sets of wheels along the lengths of the box tubes. In some embodiments, the wheels might be spheres or bearings located in a case that leaves some of the sphere exposed, allowing them to roll in any chosen direction. In some embodiments, the wheels may be configured to be removably coupled to the platform, and may be removed if no longer needed, repositioned to adjust weight loads, and or for transit purposes. Depending on the embodiment, the wheels may be attached to a flange such that the platform is lowered relative to the point at which the wheels contact the box tubes, so that the sides of the platform are substantially parallel to the box tubes. In some embodiments, the flange or other attachment means of the wheels is configured to be robust enough that the attachments can be used as a point from which to lift the platform.

[0023| Depending on the embodiment, the wheels may be positioned towards a far end of the platform that is distal to the end of the deck configured to extend out from the side of a building or other edge. Phrased another way, the wheels may be positioned on the far end of the box tubes from the end of the platform that extends off an edge, such that they, in some embodiments, remain above the floor of a building or edge when the platform is extended. In other embodiments, the wheels may be positioned in other locations as desired. [0024| T he invention may, in some examples, be comprised of additional roller wheels that stabilize the deck platform by rolling along the inner- facing sides of the first and second box tubes,

[0025| hi some embodiments, the deck may be moved into place by a hoist wherein the hoist attaches to attachment points positioned on the deck, platform, and/or stationary support structure, depending on the needs of the embodiment. The deck can then be lifted in its entirety, or in separate pieces, once more depending on the needs of the embodiment. The attachment points may be carabiners, captured rings, bolts, sockets, or any other means of connection . The hoist may attach to a single attachment point, or may atach to several, or may use lines to attach to multiple, depending on the embodiment.

[0O26[ In another embodiment, the deck further includes, but is not limited to, a drive mechanism operable to extend and retract the at least one extension member. Examples of such drive mechanism may include, but are not limited to, a hydraulic cylinder, chain motor and/or gear motor, self-propelled wheel, or a combination thereof. The invention’s platform may also further comprise one or more wheels for interfacing directly or indirectly with the floor, or that interface directly with die stationary support structure or connector. Depending on the needs of the embodiment, some embodiments may be powered by an electric motor that may be coupled to the deck, or may be external and coupled to it only as needed, with a drive mechanism as described herein, such as, but not limited to, a chain drive, that moves the platform and box tubes.

|0027| For some embodiments of the invention, the deck further includes, but is not limited to, a hoist that may be attached, removably or permanently, to the deck or elsewhere and is connected to a basket system. Depending on the needs of the user, the basket system may be further comprised of one or more of the following features; (1 ) the basket may be a rectangular cuboid that can be connected to the hoist by attachment points at. its top comers; (2) a door on a front, rear or side face; and (3) a slidable platform on its floor configured to interface with a deck. (00281 one embodiment, a technique for use in construction is provided, the technique including, but not limited to, positioning a deck on a floor of a building, the deck including at least a stationary support structure and a slidable platform; and extending the sl idable platform relative to the stationary support structure beyond an edge of the floor of the building at least partly using one or more wheels of the slidable platform that rest directly or indirectly on the floor of the building,

[00291 fo another embodiment, the mast of the hoist is height adjustable, position adjustable, and or removable, hi another embodiment, the hoist includes, but is not limited to, at least one back brace that extends from the mast to the stationary support structure. In another embodiment, the hoist includes, but is not limited to, at least one front brace that extends from the mast to the boom, which may or may not be fixed in place. In another embodiment, the hoist includes, but is not limited to, wherein the at least one front brace includes a hydraulic cylinder for adjusting pitch or angle of the boom.

|0030| In another embodiment, the hoist includes, but is not limited to, at least one front brace including a hydraulic cylinder for adjusting pitch or angle of the boom, the hydraulic cylinder being programmed to stop at one or more pre-specified positions. Ln another embodiment, the hoist includes, but is not limited to, at least one hydraulic cylinder coupled to the stationary support structure and the platform.

[0031| In some examples of the deck and hoist, the deck may be coupled to a stationary support structure positionable on the floor of a building, and said support structure may be comprised of a number of support units that can be combined to increase the length and/or area of the stationary support structure, and or make it easier to transport in smaller pieces. For example, the stationary support structure may be comprised of a number of square brackets with support beams attached at two adjacent corners of the brackets and extending to the middle of the side of the bracket opposite the comer’s shared side. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0032] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the following drawings:

[0033.1 FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of the deck for use in construction with its platform retracted, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0034| FIGURE 2 is a perspective view of the deck for use in construction with its deck extended, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0035] FIG URE 3 is a bottom view of the deck for use in construction with its platform retracted, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0036] FIGURE 4 is a side view of the deck for use in construction with its platform retracted, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0037] FIGURE 5 is a side view of a wheel catch for a deck and hoist for use in construction, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0038] FIGURE 6 is a scene view of the deck for use in construction with its deck retracted on a building, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[0039] FIGURE 7 is a perspective view of the deck for use in construction with its platform retracted, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] This invention relates generally to a method for making a deck for use in construction. Specific details of certain embodiments of the invention are set forth in the following description and in FIGURES 1-7 to provide a thorough understanding of such embodiments. The present invention may have additional embodiments, may be practiced without one or more of the details described for any particular described embodiment, or may have any detail described for one particular embodiment practiced with any other detail described for another embodiment. |<)0411 FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of the deck 100 for use in construction with its platform 102 retracted, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, a deck 100 tor use in construction is comprised of: a stationary support structure 104 including at least a connector extending between a first box tube 108 and a second box tube 1 10; the first box tube 108 and the second box tube 1 10 positioned parallel to the first box tube 108, the stationary support structure 104 being positionable entirely within an edge of a floor of a building; wherein the first box tube 108 is further comprised of a first wheel catch 1 12 where the first wheel catch 1 12 is positioned at a first end 1 14 of a top face 116 of the first box tube 108, and wherein the second box tube 110 is further comprised of a second wheel catch where the second wheel catch is positioned at a first end of a top face 122 of the second box rube I 10; a first extension member disposed within the first box tube 108 and being operable to retractably extend from the first box tube 108; a second extension member disposed within the second box tube 110 and being operable to retractably extend from the second box tube 110; and a platform 102 connected to the first extension member and second extension member having at least two wheels 124 wherein at least one wheel is positioned on a first side 126 of the platform 102 and is configured to roll along the top face 116 of the first box tube 108, and at least one wheel 124 is positioned parallel to the first wheel 124 on a second side 128 of the platform and is configured to roll along the top face 122 of the second box tube 110; and wherein the platform 102 is operable to retractably extend at least partly beyond the edge of the floor in conjunction with the first extension member and the second extension member. In some embodiments, the platform 102 may be further comprised of one or more rails 130 that may serve as guard rails or handrails, and such rails 130 may be configured to be openable. The platform 102 may be attached to the first extension member and second extension member by a connector 132.

[0042] F1GURE 2 is a perspective view of the deck 100 for use in construction with its platform 102 extended, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, a deck 100 for use in construction is comprised of: a stationary support structure 104 including at least a connector extending between a first box tube 108 and a second box tube 110: the first box tube 108 and the second box tube 110 positioned parallel to the first box tube 108, the stationary' support structure 104 being positionable entirely within an edge of a floor of a building; wherein the first box tube 108 is further comprised of a first wheel catch 1 12 where the first wheel catch 112 is positioned at a first end 114 of a top face 116 of the first box tube 108, and wherein the second box tube 1 10 is further comprised of a second wheel catch 204 where the second wheel catch 204 is positioned at a first end 206 of a top face 122 of the second box tube 110; a first extension member 200 disposed within the first box tube 108 and being operable to retractably extend from the first box tube 108: a second extension member 202 disposed within the second box tube 110 and being operable to retractably extend from the second box tube 1 10: and a platform 102 connected to the first extension member 200 and second extension member 204 having at least two wheels 124 wherein at least one wheel is positioned on a first side 126 of the platform 102 and is configured to roll along the top face 1 16 of the first box t ube 116, and at least one wheel 124 is positioned parallel to the first wheel 124 on a second side 128 of the platform and is configured to roll along the top face 122 of the second box tube 110; and wherein the platform 102 is operable to retractably extend at least partly beyond the edge of the floor in conjunction with the first extension member 200 and the second extension member 202. In some embodiments, the platform 102 may be further comprised of one or more rails 130 that may serve as guard rails or handrails, and such rails 130 may be configured to be openable. The platform 102 may be attached io the first extension member 200 and second extension member 202 by a connector 132. The arrows in FIGURE 2 demonstrate the motion by which the platform extends out of the support structure.

|0043] FIGURE 3 is a bottom view of the deck 100 for use in construction with its platform retracted, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, a deck 100 for use in construction is comprised of: a stationary support structure 104 including at least a connector 300 extending between a first box tube 108 and a second box tube 110; a first box tube 108 and a second box tube 1 10 positioned parallel to the first box tube 108, the stationary' support structure 104 being positionable entirely within an edge of a floor of a building; wherein the first box tube 108 is further comprised of a first wheel catch where the first wheel catch is positioned at a first end of a top face of the first box tube 108, and wherein the second box tube 1 .10 is further comprised of a second wheel catch where the second wheel catch is positioned at a first end of a top face of the second box tube 110; a first extension member 200 disposed within the first box tube 108 and being operable to retractably extend from the first box tube 108; a second extension member disposed within the second box tube 110 and being operable to retractably extend from the second box tube 110; and a platform connected to the two extension members having at least two wheels wherein at least one wheel is positioned on a first side of the platform 102 and is configured to roll along the top face of the first box tube, and at least one wheel is positioned parallel to the first wheel on a second side of the platform and is configured to roll along the top face of the second box tube 110; and wherein the platform 102 is operable to retractably extend at least partly beyond the edge of the floor in conjunction with the first extension member and the second extension member. As is visible in FIGURE 3, the platform 102 may be attached to the first extension member 200 and second extension member 202 by a connector 132, such that the platform may, depending on the embodiment, not contact the first box tube 108 or second box tube 110 except for by the wheels, or put another way, the sides of the platform 102 may not directly touch the sides of the box tubes, except for the connection between the wheels and top faces of the box tubes,

|0044| FIGURE 4 is a side view of the deck 100 for use in construction with its platform retracted, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, a deck 100 for use in construction is comprised of: a stationary support structure 104 including at least a connector extending between a first box tube and a second box tube 110; a first box tube and a second box tube 1 10 positioned parallel to the first box tube, the stationary support structure 104 being positionable entirely within an edge of a floor of a building; wherein the first box tube is further comprised of a first wheel catch where the first wheel catch is positioned at a first end of a top face of the first box tube, and wherein the second box tube 110 is further comprised of a second wheel catch 204 where the second wheel catch 204 is positioned at a first end 206 of a top face 122 of the second box tube 1 10; a first extension member disposed within the first box tube and being operable to retractably extend from the first box tube; a second extension member disposed within the second box tube 1 10 and being operable to retractably extend from the second box tube 1 10; and a platform connected to the two extension members having at least two wheels 124 wherein at. least one wheel is positioned on a first side of the platform and is configured to roll along the top lace of the first box tube, and at least one wheel 124 is positioned parallel to the first wheel on a second side of the platform and is configured to roll along the top face of the second box tube 110; and wherein the platform is operable to retractably extend at least partly beyond the edge of the floor in conjunction with the first extension member and the second extension member. In some embodiments, the platform may be further comprised of one or more rails 130 that may serve as guard rails or handrails, and such rails 130 may be configured to be openable. The platform 102 may be attached to the first extension member and second extension member by a connector 132,

[0045] FIGU RE 5 is a side view of a wheel catch for a deck and hoist for use in construction, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, the platform is comprised of at least two wheels 124, wherein the wheels 124 are configured to roll along the top face 116 of the first box tube 108 and the top face of the second box tube. In some embodiments, the invention is further comprised of a first wheel catch 112 positioned at a first end of the first box tube 108 and a second wheel catch positioned at. a first end of a second box tube. As configured, the wheels 124 should roll into the wheel catches as the first extension member 200 and second extension member extend and are thereafter prevented from rolling further. The large arrow in the figure shows the motion of the first extension member 200 and wheel 124 as the first extension member 200 moves the platform outward.

|0046| FIGURE 6 is a scene view of the deck 100 for use in construction with its platform 102 retracted, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, a deck 100 for use in construction is comprised of: a stationary support structure 104 including at least a connector extending between a first box tube 108 and a second box tube 110; the first box tube 108 and the second box tube 110 positioned parallel to the first box tube 108, the stationary support structure 104 being positionable entirely within an edge 600 of a floor of a building 602; wherein the first box tube 108 is further comprised of a first wheel catch 1 12 where the first wheel catch 1 12 is positioned at a first end 114 of a top face 116 of the first box tube 108, and wherein the second box tube 110 is further comprised of a second wheel catch where the second wheel catch is positioned at a first end of a top face 122 of the second box tube 1 10; a first extension member disposed within the first box tube 108 and being operable to retractably extend from the first box tube 108; a second extension member disposed within the second box tube 110 and being operable to retractably extend from the second box tube 110; and a platform 102 connected to the first extension member and second extension member having at least two wheels 124 wherein at least one wheel is positioned on a first side 126 of the platform 102 and is configured to roll along the top face of the first box tube 116, and at least one wheel 124 is positioned parallel to the first wheel 124 on a second side 128 of the platform and is configured to roll along the top face of the second box tube 1 10; and wherein the platform 102 is operable to retractably extend at least partly beyond the edge of the floor in conjunction with the first extension member and the second extension member. In some embodiments, the platform 102 may be further comprised of one or more rails 130 that may serve as guard rails or handrails, and such rails 130 may be configured to be openable. Some embodiments may be further comprised of a ramp 604 that may be coupled, removably or otherwise, to the platform 102 or stationary support structure 104. The platform 102 may be attached to the first extension member and second extension member by a connector 132.

|0047i FIGURE 7 is a perspective view of the deck 100 for use in construction with its platform 102 retracted, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, a deck 100 for use in construction is comprised of: a stationary support structure 104 including at least a connector extending between a first box tube 108 and a second box tube 110; the first box tube 108 and the second box tube 110 positioned parallel to the first box tube 108, the stationary support structure 104 being positionable entirely within an edge of a floor of a building; wherein the first box tube 108 is further comprised of a first wheel catch where the first wheel catch is positioned at a first end 114 of a top face 116 of the first box tube 108, and wherein the second box tube 110 is further comprised of a second wheel catch 204 where the second wheel catch 204 is positioned at a first end 700 of a top face 122 of the second box tube 110; a first extension member disposed within the first box tube 108 and being operable to retractably extend from the first box tube 108; a second extension member disposed within the second box tube 110 and being operable to retractably extend from the second box tube 110: and a platform 102 connected to the first extension member and second extension member having at least two wheels 124 wherein at least one wheel is positioned on a first side 126 of the platform 102 and is configured to roll along the top face of the first box tube 116, and at least one wheel 124 is positioned parallel to the first wheel 124 on a second side 128 of the platform and is configured to roll along the top face of the second box tube 1 10; and wherein the platform 102 is operable to retractably extend at least partly beyond the edge of the floor in conjunction with the first extension member and the second extension member. In some embodiments, the platform 102 may be further comprised of one or more rails 130 that may serve as guard rails or handrails, and such rails 130 may be configured to be openable. The platform 102 may be attached to the first extension member and second extension member by a connector 132 such that the platform may, depending on the embodiment, not contact the first box tube 108 or second box tube 110 except for by the wheels, or put another way, the sides of the platform 102 may not directly touch the sides of the box tubes, except for the connection between the wheels and top faces of the box tubes.

100481 FIGURE 8 is a perspective view of the deck 100 for use in construction with its platform 102 retracted being moved into place by a crane 800, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. In some embodiments, a deck 100 for use in construction is comprised of: a stationary support structure 104 including at least a connector extending between a first box tube 108 and a second box tube 110; the first box tube 108 and the second box tube 110 positioned parallel to the first box tube 108, the stationary support structure 104 being positionable entirely within an edge of a floor of a building; wherein the first box tube 108 is further comprised of a first wheel catch 1 12 where the first wheel catch 112 is positioned al a first end 114 of a top face 116 of the first box tube 108, and wherein the second box tube 110 is further comprised of a second wheel catch where the second wheel catch is positioned at a first end 120 of a top face 122 of the second box tube 110; a first extension member disposed within the first box tube 108 and being operable to retractably extend from the first box tube 108; a second extension member disposed within the second box tube 110 and being operable to retractably extend from the second box tube 1 10; and a platform 102 connected to the first extension member and second extension member having at least two wheels 124 wherein at least one wheel is positioned on a first side 126 of the platform 102 and is configured to roll along the top face of the first box tube 1 16, and at least one wheel 124 is positioned parallel to the first wheel 124 on a second side 128 of the platform and is configured to roll along the top face of the second box tube 1 10; and wherein the platform 102 is operable to retractably extend at least partly beyond the edge of the floor in conjunction with the first extension member and the second extension member. In some embodiments, the platform 102 may be further comprised of one or more rails 130 that may serve as guard rails or handrails, and such rails 130 may be configured to be openable. In some embodiments, the deck 100 may be moved into place by a hoist 800 wherein the hoist 800 attaches to attachment points 802 positioned on the deck 100, platform 102, and/or stationary support structure 104, depending on the needs of the embodiment. The deck 100 can then be lifted in its entirety, or in separate pieces, once more depending on the needs of the embodiment. The hoist 800 may attach to a single attachment point 802, or may attach io several attachment points 802, and or may use lines 804 to attach to multiple, depending on the embodiment. The platform 102 may be attached to the first extension member and second extension member by a connector 132.

|0049| Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not. limited by the disclosure of these preferred and alternate embodiments. Instead, the invention should be determined by reference to the claims that follow.

Claims

What is Claimed is:

1 . A deck for use in construction, the deck comprising: a stationary support structure comprising at least a connector extending between a first box tube and a second box tube; the first box tube and the second box tube positioned parallel to the first box tube, the stationary support structure being positionable entirely within an edge of a floor of a building; wherein the first box tube is further comprised of a first wheel catch where the first wheel catch is positioned at a first end of a top face of the first box tube, and wherein the second box tube is further comprised of a second wheel catch where the second wheel catch is positioned at a first end of a top face of the second box tube; and a first extension member disposed within the first box tube and being operable to retractably extend from the first box tube; a second extension member disposed within the second box tube and being operable to retractably extend from the second box tube; and a platform connected to the first extension member and second extension member having at least two wheels wherein at least one wheel is positioned on a first side of the platform and is configured to roll along the top face of the first box tube, and at least one wheel is positioned parallel to the first wheel on a second side of the platform and is configured to roll along the top face of the second box tube; and wherein the platform is operable to retractably extend at least partly beyond the edge of the floor in conjunction with the first extension member and the second extension member.

2. The deck of claim I, wherein the platform is further comprised of a guardrail positioned perpendicular to a face of the platform wherein the barrier is affixed to the first side of the platform, the second side of the platform, and a distal end of the platform.

3. The deck of claim 1, farther comprising: a drive mechanism operable to extend and retract at least one of the first extension member and second extension member.

4. The deck of claim 3, wherein the drive mechanism comprises at least one of: a hydraulic cylinder, a chain, or a self-propelled wheel.

5. The deck of claim I , wherein the first box tube is comprised of a third wheel catch positioned at a second end of a top face of the first box tube, and the second box tube is further comprised of a fourth wheel catch positioned at a second end of a top face of the second box tube.

6. The deck of claim 1, further comprising: at least one counterweight receptacle coupled to the stationary support structure that is operable to removably receive one or more counterweights.

7. The deck of claim 6, further comprising: one or more removable counterweights.

8. The deck of claim 2, further comprising; a ramp removably coupled to one of the stationary support structure or platform that is operable to facil itate transfer of one or more loads with respect to the platform.

9. The deck of claim 2, wherein the portion of the barrier affixed to the distal end of the platform is divided into two pieces and such pieces are configured to swivel to create an opening.

10. The deck of claim 1, further comprising: a hoist mounted on the stationary support structure such that the hoist is operable to project from inside the edge of the floor to a point beyond the edge of the floor for lifting one or more loads.

1 1. I’he deck of claim 10, wherein the hoist operable to project from inside the edge of the floor to a point beyond the edge of the floor comprises: a mast mounted on the stationary support structure; and at least one boom that projects from the mast or the stationary¹ support structure.

12. The deck of claim 11, further comprising: a luffing hydraulic cylinder that extends from the mast to the at least one boom tor adjusting pitch or angle of the at least one boom.

13. The deck of claim 10, wherein the hoist further comprises: a winch ; a sheave; a cable that extends from the winch over the sheave; and an overhaul ball coupled to the cable.

14. The deck of claim 10, wherein the hoist is height adjustable relative to the stationary support structure.

15. The deck of claim 10, wherein the hoist is position adjustable along a length of the stationary support structure.

16. The deck of claim 1.0, wherein the hoist is removably mounted on the stationary support structure.

17. A hoist for use in construction, the deck comprising: one or more stationary support structure modules including at least a first box rube, a second box tube disposed parallel to the first box tube, and one or more support cross-beams, the one or more stationary support structure modules being configured to removably couple to each other to create a combined support structure being positionable entirely within an edge of a floor of a building; a hoist mounted on the combined support structure such that the hoist is operable to project from inside the edge of the floor to a point beyond the edge of the floor for lifting one or more loads.

18. The deck of claim 17, wherein the hoist further comprises: a winch; a sheave; a cable that extends from the winch over the sheave; and an overhaul ball coupled to the cable.

19. The deck of claim 17, wherein the one or more stationary support structure modules are comprised of a front support beam connecting a front end of the first box tube and a front end of the second box tube.

20. The deck of claim 19. wherein the stationary support structure is further comprised of a connector extending between said first box tube and said second box tube.