Patent ID: 6234710
Filing Date: 2001-05-22
Classification: E06C,F16B,Y10T

Abstract:
An adjustable length assembly including:(a) a first member;(b) a second member;(c) the first and second members being structurally supported in a sliding relationship establishing a sliding direction and a sliding plane;(d) the first member having a section of its length wherein the cross section in the sliding direction ramps at a taper angle from the sliding direction;(e) a constraint mechanism coupled to the second member and fixed against movement from the second member in the sliding direction but adjustably moveable from the second member substantially transverse to the sliding plane, the constraint mechanism interengaging with the first member such that the constraint mechanism is movable in response to an adjusted relative position of the first and second members in the sliding direction;(f) the constraint mechanism including a restraining surface which is contactable with a ramp surface of the ramp section of the first member;(g) an adjustable locking element located between the second member and the constraint mechanism said locking element being isolated from direct contact with or influence arising from relative sliding movement between the first and second members whereby the constraint and restraining surface can be locked in position relative to the second member at a required ramp position relative to the sliding plane to lock the first and second members in an adjusted position in the sliding direction.