Patent ID: 7310915
Filing Date: 2007-12-25
Classification: B66F,E04G,E04H

Abstract:
1. A retractable triangular column comprising: three section chains arranged in an adjacent manner, each section chain having a plurality of sections pivotally connected to each other; at least one chain connection member rigidly secured to extend in an outward direction from an opposite side of each section chain wherein each chain connection member further comprises a surface which slopes toward a point and whereby each chain connection member directly couples to another chain connection member to link each section chain to the adjacent section chain in such a manner as to form a rigid triangular colunm as the section chains are raised in an operable position; a guide tower operably positioned relative to the three section chains wherein the guide tower fits about and engages the sections and helps to guide the chain connection members of the adjacent section chains into coupled engagement, the guide tower including a drive mechanism operably attached thereto such that a drive gear is operably exposed; an at least one guide roller operably connected to the guide tower and operably interacting with the section chains whereby the guide roller engages the sections and helps to guide the chain connection members into coupled engagement; an at least one interior roller, the interior rollers operably affixed to the guide tower whereby the interior rollers engage the sections and helps to guide the hooks into coupled engagement; and a gear rack fixedly connected to each section of the section chain whereby the gear rack is positioned to engage the drive gear of the drive mechanism and an at least one guide roller.