Patent ID: 6119356
Filing Date: 2000-09-19
Classification: E04F

Abstract:
A construction tool for use with stairways and landings, the tool comprising:a generally straight elongated bottom member having two ends;a generally straight elongated top member spaced from and parallel to the bottom member and having two ends;two generally straight side legs each having a bottom end and a top end, the bottom ends being pivotally connected to the bottom member near its two ends, respectively to define two respective pivotal connection, the top ends being pivotally connected to the top member near its said two ends respectively to define two additional respectively pivotal connections, the side legs pivot relative to the top member and bottom member in the plane of the top member and bottom member to a range of pivotal positions comprising a fully upright position wherein the legs are about 90.degree. to the bottom member and the top member, and to a collapsed position wherein the top member is near the bottom member;at least one lock wherein each said lock is adapted to temporarily lock a one of said pivotal connections from pivoting;wherein the top member, bottom member and side legs form a frame having an opening between them;wherein the tool comprises no structures extending across the opening;wherein the top member and bottom member each comprise two parallel channels running substantially along their entire lengths;wherein each side leg comprises two parallel leg portions pivotally received in said channels; andwherein the channels are adapted to substantially receive the leg portions when the leg portions pivot into the collapsed position to place the top member near the bottom member.