SPIRAL STAIRCASE

A staircase is provided that includes a column and steps. Each step: is coupled to the column and extends outside of, and away from, the column; includes a tread surface; and can move longitudinally along the column. The staircase can transition to a plurality of states by an actuation system, including closed and open states. The closed state includes the steps positioned at the upper end with the tread surfaces of the plurality of steps oriented around the upper end and coplanar to a flooring surface of the upper floor. The opened state includes the steps positioned at varying distances longitudinally along the column from the upper end towards the lower end so as to form spiraling steps around the column between the upper and lower floors. The steps can move longitudinally along the column for positioning in the closed and opened states.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to the field of staircases, and more particularly to spiral staircases.

BACKGROUND

Existing spiral staircases are fixed staircase structures having steps that spiral around a center pole or axis between two floors. The center pole is usually a solid pole or hollow tube. The spiral staircases typically have balusters that are fixed to the outside of the steps and that extend up to a handrailing. The spiral staircases are fixed in a sense that the spiral staircase structure as a whole remains fixed in place once installed. As a result, the defined space where the spiral staircase sits cannot practically be used for other purposes or to be cleared for additional space. The exposed passageway of spiral staircases can also be a potential hazard that is continuously present. For example, someone can accidently fall into the staircase, or a child too young to safely use the staircase can easily enter the staircase, etc. In addition, because spiral staircases are fixed and typically in plain sight, it is almost impossible to conceal or hide the existence of the staircase or the presence of another floor.

SUMMARY

In one aspect of the present disclosure, a staircase for traversing between an upper floor and a lower floor is provided. The staircase includes: a column having an upper end configured for positioning at the upper floor, a lower end configured for positioning at the lower floor, and an interior area; and a plurality of steps coupled to the column. Each step of the plurality of steps: is coupled to the column and extends outside of, and away from, the column; includes a respective tread surface; and is configured to move longitudinally along the column. The staircase is configured to transition to a plurality of states by an actuation system during operation. The plurality of states include a closed state and an opened state. The closed state includes the plurality of steps positioned at the upper end of the column with the tread surfaces of the plurality of steps oriented around the upper end of the column and configured to be coplanar to a flooring surface of the upper floor. The opened state includes the plurality of steps positioned at varying distances longitudinally along the column from the upper end towards the lower end so as to form spiraling steps around the column between the upper and lower floors. The plurality of steps is configured to move longitudinally along the column for positioning in the closed and opened states.

In an embodiment, the staircase further includes a plurality of linear guides coupled together to form the column. The interior area is between the plurality of linear guides. The plurality of linear guides extends longitudinally between the upper and lower ends of the column. The plurality of steps are coupled to the plurality of linear guides. Each step of the plurality of steps: is coupled to a respective linear guide of the plurality of linear guides and extends outside of, and away from, the respective linear guide; and is configured to move longitudinally along the respective linear guide. The opened state includes the plurality of steps positioned at varying distances longitudinally along the plurality of linear guides from the upper end of the column towards the lower end of the column so as to form spiraling steps around the column between the upper floor and the lower floor. The plurality of steps is configured to move longitudinally along the plurality of linear guides for positioning in the closed and opened states. In an embodiment, the plurality of linear guides includes a plurality of subsets of linear guides that form segments of the column. Each subset of the plurality of subsets of linear guides includes more than one linear guide coupled together by coupling elements positioned in the interior area of the column. The staircase further includes: an upper housing positioned in the interior area of the column and coupled to the plurality of subsets of linear guides at the upper end of the column; and a lower housing positioned in the interior area of the column and coupled to the plurality of subsets of linear guides at the lower end of the column. The plurality of subsets of linear guides are coupled together by the upper and lower housings such that gaps are formed between adjacent segments of the column. The gaps extend longitudinally along the adjacent segments between the upper and lower housings. In an embodiment, the staircase includes a lifting platform. The lifting platform includes: a coupling portion for coupling to the actuation system, wherein the coupling portion is positioned in the interior area of the column; a contacting portion for contacting and moving the plurality of steps longitudinally along the plurality of linear guides, wherein the contacting portion is positioned outside of the column and below the plurality of steps; and one or more spokes extending from the coupling portion to the contacting portion. Each of the one or more spokes extend through a respective one of the gaps formed between the adjacent segments of the column. The lifting platform is configured to move longitudinally along the column to contact and move the plurality of steps longitudinally along the plurality of linear guides so as to lift and lower the plurality of steps along the column. Each of the one or more spokes are configured to move within the respective one of the gaps formed between the adjacent segments when the lifting platform moves longitudinally along the column. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes: a plurality of stop elements for contacting the plurality of steps to limit movement of the plurality of steps longitudinally along the plurality of linear guides toward the lower end of the column, and a first linear actuator for moving the lifting platform longitudinally along the column, wherein the actuation system includes the first linear actuator. The plurality of stop elements are coupled to the plurality of linear guides and positioned on an exterior side of the column such that the movement of the plurality of steps along the plurality of linear guides toward the lower end of the column is limited at the varying distances that form the spiraling steps around the column. The first linear actuator is coupled to the upper housing and includes a first traveling member. The first traveling member is coupled to the coupling portion of the lifting platform and configured to move longitudinally within the interior area of the column so as to move the lifting platform longitudinally along the column. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes: a landing barrier coupled to one of the plurality of linear guides and positioned outside of the column; and a second linear actuator for moving the landing barrier longitudinally along the column. The actuation system includes the second linear actuator. The second linear actuator is coupled to the upper housing and includes a second traveling member. The second traveling member is configured to extend through one of the gaps formed between the adjacent segment, wherein the second traveling member is coupled to the landing barrier and configured to move longitudinally along the column so as to move the landing barrier longitudinally along the column. The closed state further includes the landing barrier positioned below the upper floor. The opened state further includes the landing barrier positioned above the upper floor so as to: enable entry into the staircase from the upper floor in a direction of the spiraling steps around the column; and prevent entry into the staircase from the upper floor in a direction opposite of the spiraling steps around the column. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes: an outer perimeter assembly, and a wall barrier configured to rotate toward and couple to the landing barrier when the staircase enters the opened state to serve as a safety barrier extending from the landing barrier to a nearby wall when the staircase is in the opened state. The outer perimeter assembly includes: a perimeter base having a top surface, a latch actuator and a plurality of latches coupled to the perimeter base, and a plurality of elongated members coupled to the perimeter base and configured to extend longitudinally from the perimeter base toward the lower floor. The latch actuator and the plurality of latches are positioned around the perimeter base. The perimeter base is configured to be positioned in the upper floor such that the top surface is coplanar with the flooring surface of the upper floor. The perimeter base is oriented around an outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the top surface is coplanar with the tread surfaces of the plurality of steps when the staircase is in the closed state. The latch actuator and the plurality of latches includes: a latched state that secures the plurality of steps in position in the closed state; and an unlatched state that enables the plurality of steps to transition from the closed state to the opened state. The plurality of elongated members is configured to couple to the outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the plurality of steps are movable longitudinally along the column for positioning in the closed and opened states. The plurality of elongated members is positioned around the perimeter base and around the outer perimeter of the plurality of steps so as to form a side barrier around the outer perimeter of the spiraling steps when the staircase is in the opened state. The closed state further includes the wall barrier positioned against or within a nearby wall. The open state further includes the wall barrier positioned to align with the landing barrier and couple to the landing barrier. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes a lifting platform. The lifting platform includes: a coupling portion for coupling to the actuation system, a contacting portion for contacting and moving the plurality of steps longitudinally along the plurality of linear guides, and one or more spokes extending from the coupling portion to the contacting portion. The coupling portion is positioned in the interior area of the column. The contacting portion is positioned outside of the column and below the plurality of steps. Each of the one or more spokes extend through the column. The lifting platform is configured to move longitudinally along the column to contact and move the plurality of steps longitudinally along the plurality of linear guides so as to lift and lower the plurality of steps along the column. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes: a landing barrier coupled to one of the plurality of linear guides and positioned outside of the column; and a linear actuator for moving the landing barrier longitudinally along the column. The actuation system includes the linear actuator. The linear actuator is coupled to the column, positioned within the column, and includes a traveling member. The traveling member is configured to extend through the column. The traveling member is coupled to the landing barrier and configured to move longitudinally along the column so as to move the landing barrier longitudinally along the column. The closed state further includes the landing barrier positioned below the upper floor. The opened state further includes the landing barrier positioned above the upper floor so as to: enable entry into the staircase from the upper floor in a direction of the spiraling steps around the column; and prevent entry into the staircase from the upper floor in a direction opposite of the spiraling steps around the column. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes an outer perimeter assembly. The outer perimeter assembly includes: a perimeter base having a top surface, and a latch actuator and a plurality of latches coupled to the perimeter base. The perimeter base is configured to be positioned in the upper floor such that the top surface is coplanar with the flooring surface of the upper floor. The perimeter base is oriented around an outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the top surface is coplanar with the tread surfaces of the plurality of steps when the staircase is in the closed state. The latch actuator and the plurality of latches are positioned around the perimeter base. The latch actuator and the plurality of latches include: a latched state that secures the plurality of steps in position in the closed state; and an unlatched state that enables the plurality of steps to transition from the closed state to the opened state. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes an outer perimeter assembly. The outer perimeter assembly includes: a perimeter base having a top surface, and a plurality of elongated members coupled to the perimeter base and configured to extend longitudinally from the perimeter base toward the lower floor. The perimeter base is configured to be positioned in the upper floor such that the top surface is coplanar with the flooring surface of the upper floor. The perimeter base is oriented around an outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the top surface is coplanar with the tread surfaces of the plurality of steps when the staircase is in the closed state. The plurality of elongated members is configured to couple to the outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the plurality of steps are movable longitudinally along the column for positioning in the closed and opened states. The plurality of elongated members is positioned around the perimeter base and around the outer perimeter of the plurality of steps so as to form a side barrier around the outer perimeter of the spiraling steps when the staircase is in the opened state.

In an embodiment, the staircase further includes a lifting platform. The lifting platform includes: a coupling portion for coupling to the actuation system, wherein the coupling portion is positioned in the interior area of the column; a contacting portion for contacting and moving the plurality of steps longitudinally along the column, wherein the contacting portion is positioned outside of the column and below the plurality of steps; and one or more spokes extending from the coupling portion to the contacting portion. Each of the one or more spokes extend through the column. The lifting platform is configured to move longitudinally along the column to contact and move the plurality of steps along the column. In an embodiment, the staircase, further includes a landing barrier coupled to the column. The closed state further includes the landing barrier positioned below the upper floor. The opened state further includes the landing barrier positioned above the upper floor so as to: enable entry into the staircase from the upper floor in a direction of the spiraling steps around the column; and prevent entry into the staircase from the upper floor in a direction opposite of the spiraling steps around the column. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes an outer perimeter assembly. The outer perimeter assembly includes: a perimeter base having a top surface, and a latch actuator and a plurality of latches coupled to the perimeter base. The perimeter base is configured to be positioned in the upper floor such that the top surface is coplanar with the flooring surface of the upper floor. The perimeter base is oriented around an outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the top surface is coplanar with the tread surfaces of the plurality of steps when the staircase is in the closed state. The latch actuator and the plurality of latches are positioned around the perimeter base. The latch actuator and the plurality of latches include: a latched state that secures the plurality of steps in position in the closed state; and an unlatched state that enables the plurality of steps to transition from the closed state to the opened state. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes an outer perimeter assembly. The outer perimeter assembly includes: a perimeter base having a top surface, and a plurality of elongated members coupled to the perimeter base and configured to extend longitudinally from the perimeter base toward the lower floor. The perimeter base is configured to be positioned in the upper floor such that the top surface is coplanar with the flooring surface of the upper floor. The he perimeter base is oriented around an outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the top surface is coplanar with the tread surfaces of the plurality of steps when the staircase is in the closed state. The plurality of elongated members is configured to couple to the outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the plurality of steps are movable longitudinally along the column for positioning in the closed and opened states. The plurality of elongated members is positioned around the perimeter base and around the outer perimeter of the plurality of steps so as to form a side barrier around the outer perimeter of the spiraling steps when the staircase is in the opened state.

In an embodiment, the staircase further includes a landing barrier coupled to the column. The closed state further includes the landing barrier positioned below the upper floor. The opened state further includes the landing barrier positioned above the upper floor so as to: enable entry into the staircase from the upper floor in a direction of the spiraling steps around the column; and prevent entry into the staircase from the upper. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes: an outer perimeter assembly. The outer perimeter assembly includes: a perimeter base having a top surface, a latch actuator and a plurality of latches coupled to the perimeter base, and a plurality of elongated members coupled to the perimeter base and configured to extend longitudinally from the perimeter base toward the lower floor. The perimeter base is configured to be positioned in the upper floor such that the top surface is coplanar with the flooring surface of the upper floor. The perimeter base is oriented around an outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the top surface is coplanar with the tread surfaces of the plurality of steps when the staircase is in the closed state. The latch actuator and the plurality of latches are positioned around the perimeter base. The latch actuator and the plurality of latches include: a latched state that secures the plurality of steps in position in the closed state; and an unlatched state that enables the plurality of steps to transition from the closed state to the opened state. The plurality of elongated members is configured to couple to the outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the plurality of steps are movable longitudinally along the column for positioning in the closed and opened states. The plurality of elongated members is positioned around the perimeter base and around the outer perimeter of the plurality of steps so as to form a side barrier around the outer perimeter of the spiraling steps when the staircase is in the opened state. In an embodiment, the staircase further includes a wall barrier configured to rotate toward and couple to the landing barrier when the staircase enters the opened state to serve as a safety barrier extending from the landing barrier to a nearby wall when the staircase is in the opened state. The closed state further includes the wall barrier positioned against or within a nearby wall. The open state further includes the wall barrier positioned to align with the landing barrier and couple to the landing barrier.

In an embodiment, the staircase further includes an outer perimeter assembly. The outer perimeter assembly includes: a perimeter base having a top surface, and a latch actuator and a plurality of latches coupled to the perimeter base. The perimeter base is configured to be positioned in the upper floor such that the top surface is coplanar with the flooring surface of the upper floor. The perimeter base is oriented around an outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the top surface is coplanar with the tread surfaces of the plurality of steps when the staircase is in the closed state. The latch actuator and the plurality of latches are positioned around the perimeter base. The latch actuator and the plurality of latches include: a latched state that secures the plurality of steps in position in the closed state; and an unlatched state that enables the plurality of steps to transition from the closed state to the opened state. In an embodiment, the outer perimeter assembly further includes a plurality of elongated members coupled to the perimeter base and configured to extend longitudinally from the perimeter base toward the lower floor. The plurality of elongated members is configured to couple to the outer perimeter of the plurality of steps such that the plurality of steps are movable longitudinally along the column for positioning in the closed and opened states. The plurality of elongated members is positioned around the perimeter base and around the outer perimeter of the plurality of steps so as to form a side barrier around the outer perimeter of the spiraling steps when the staircase is in the opened state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before the present invention is described in greater detail, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular embodiments described, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present invention will be limited only by the appended claims. Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the invention. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges can independently be included in the smaller ranges and are also encompassed within the invention, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the invention. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, representative illustrative methods and materials are now described. It is noted that, as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It is also noted that certain ordinal terms (e.g., “first” or “second”) may be provided for ease of reference and do not necessarily imply physical characteristics or ordering. Therefore, as used herein, an ordinal term (e.g., “first,” “second,” “third,” etc.) used to modify an element, such as a structure, a component, an operation, etc., does not necessarily indicate priority or order of the element with respect to another element, but rather distinguishes the element from another element having a same name (but for use of the ordinal term). Further, an operation performed “based on” a condition or event may also be performed based on one or more conditions, or events not explicitly recited. In addition, as used herein, “exemplary” may indicate an example, an implementation, and/or an aspect, and should not be construed as limiting or as indicating a preference or a preferred example, implementation, and/or aspect. Further, the description may use the term “coupled with,” or “coupled to,” along with its derivatives, may be used herein. “Coupled” may mean one or more of the following. “Coupled” may mean that two or more elements are in direct physical or electrical contact (or are directly connected). However, “coupled” may also mean that two or more elements indirectly contact each other (or are indirectly connected), but yet still cooperate or interact with each other, and may mean that one or more other elements are coupled between the elements that are said to be coupled with each other. Moreover, it is further noted that the claims may be drafted to exclude any optional element. As such, this statement is intended to serve as antecedent basis for use of such exclusive terminology as “solely,” “only” and the like in connection with the recitation of claim elements, or use of a “negative” limitation. As will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which can be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other several embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of the present invention.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, a cascading spiral staircase is provided. The staircase includes a column with steps coupled to, and positioned around, the column. The column has an upper end configured for positioning at the upper floor, a lower end configured for positioning at the lower floor, and an interior area within the column. Each step is coupled to the column and extends outside of, and away from, the column. Each step includes a tread surface for walking on. And further, each step is configured to move longitudinally along the column. The staircase is configured to transition to various states during operation, including a closed state and an opened state. The steps are configured to move longitudinally along the column for positioning in the closed and opened states. In the opened state, the steps are positioned at varying distances longitudinally along the column from the upper end toward the lower end so as to form spiraling steps around the column between the upper and lower floors. In the opened state, users can enter and traverse the staircase to go between upper and lower floors of a building, dwelling, or other multiple-story structure for instance. In the closed state, the steps are positioned at the upper end of the column. The tread surfaces of the steps are oriented around the upper end of the column and configured to be coplanar (or flush) with the flooring surface of the upper floor. References to objects being “coplanar,” “flush,” “contiguous,” may be made herein and should be construed to include being substantially or generally coplanar, flush, and contiguous, respectively. In the closed state, the steps form part of the flooring surface of the upper floor and close (or close off) the passageway between the upper and lower floors. The steps are configured to support a substantial load. Closing the passageway can be beneficial for a variety of reasons, such eliminating a potential hazard of an exposed passageway, creating an ability to restrict access to another floor, increasing the level of privacy between floors, reducing the level of noise between floors, etc. For example, privacy can be increased by concealing that a staircase is present, or by making the tread surfaces of the steps out of an opaque material or material that reduces visibility through the steps. In another embodiment, visibility through the steps may be desired and the tread surfaces can be made of a see-through material, such as tempered glass, to enable visibility between upper and lower floors through the steps. The flooring surface created by the steps can also be beneficial by freeing up additional floor space to use (e.g., walk on, stand on, etc.) in a room. In some instances it may be desirable to set up furniture on the additional floor space created by the staircase, such as when the staircase is to remain closed for extended periods of time.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the staircase can include a landing barrier coupled to, and positioned outside of, the column. In the opened state, the landing barrier can be positioned above the upper floor so as to enable proper entry into the staircase from the upper floor in the direction of the spiraling steps around the column; and, prevent improper entry into the staircase from the upper floor in the direction opposite of the spiraling steps around the column. In an embodiment, the landing barrier can be positioned above the flooring surface of the upper floor with a portion of the landing barrier remaining below the flooring surface of the upper floor. In the closed state, the landing barrier can be positioned below the upper floor so as to avoid taking up space and creating an obstruction on the upper floor. The landing barrier can be positioned so that the top side of the landing barrier is coplanar with the tread surfaces of the steps and the flooring space on the upper floor.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the staircase can include a wall barrier that is configured to couple to the landing barrier to serve as a safety barrier extending from the landing barrier to a nearby wall when the staircase is in the opened state. In the opened state, the wall barrier functions to prevent someone from walking around the landing barrier and potentially falling down the exposed passageway of the staircase. In an embodiment, the wall barrier can be configured to rotate against or within the nearby wall (e.g., within a recess in the nearby wall) when the staircase is in the closed state so as to avoid taking up space and creating an obstruction on the upper floor.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, the staircase can include an outer perimeter assembly that is positioned within a flooring surface of the upper floor and is configured to surround the steps of the staircase when in the closed state. The outer perimeter assembly can include a latch actuator and latches that function to latch (or lock, secure, etc.) and unlatch (or unlock, secure, etc.) the steps in the closed state position. The outer perimeter assembly can also include a perimeter base and elongated members (e.g., rods) that can extend from the perimeter base toward the lower floor. In the opened state position, the elongated members are positioned around the outer perimeter of the spiraling steps and function as a side barrier (or safety barrier) through the passageway of the staircase.

The figures and corresponding descriptions presented herein illustrate and describe exemplary embodiments to facilitate understanding of the underlying principles of the staircase of the present disclosure. The figures use reference numerals consistently to designate like parts, and thus the descriptions of one figure may be applicable to other figure. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity and brevity, every reference number for objects illustrated in one figure may not necessarily be repeated in every other figure.

FIGS.1A and1Billustrate perspective views of an exemplary spiral staircase in closed and opened states, respectively, according to an embodiment. InFIGS.1A and1, a spiral staircase100is shown including a column101, steps (of which step102is a representative step) coupled to the column101and having tread surfaces (of which tread surface802is a representative tread surface), a landing barrier103coupled to the column101, an outer perimeter assembly104positioned around the column101, and a base housing105coupled to the column101. The column101is shown including linear guides (of which linear guide106is a representative linear guide) coupled together, a lifting platform107positioned around the linear guides106, cover and base plates108,109coupled to ends of the column101, upper and lower housings (or machine housings)110,111coupled to the ends of the column101, and stop elements130coupled to the linear guides106on the outside (or exterior, exterior side, etc.) of the column101. The outer perimeter assembly104is shown including a perimeter base112, elongated members (of which elongated member113is a representative elongated member) coupled to and extending from the perimeter base112, a latch actuator114coupled to the perimeter base112near the landing barrier103, and a plurality of latches (of which latch115is a representative latch) coupled to and around the perimeter base112.

The steps102are coupled to and around the column101. The column101has an upper end116configured for positioning at the upper floor, a lower end117configured for positioning at the lower floor, and an interior area (not shown inFIGS.1A and1B) within the column101. Each step102is coupled to a respective linear guide106and extends outside of, and away from, the column101. Each step includes a tread surface802and is configured to move longitudinally along (or up and down) the column101. The staircase100is configured to transition to a plurality of states during operation, including the closed state and the opened state. In an embodiment, the staircase100can be configured to transition between the opened and closed states in response to a user command or event from a user device, such as touchscreen display, button, lever, switch, etc. The steps102are configured to move longitudinally along (or up and down) the linear guides106for positioning in the closed and opened states. The outer perimeter assembly104is positioned within the flooring surface of the upper floor. The outer perimeter assembly104includes the latch actuator114and the latches115, which function to latch (or lock, secure, etc.) and unlatch (or unlock, make unsecure (or not secured), etc.) the steps in the closed state position. The outer perimeter assembly104can also include a perimeter base112and elongated members (e.g., rods)113that can extend from the perimeter base112toward the lower floor.

InFIG.1A, the staircase100is in the closed state. The steps102are oriented around an upper end116of the column with its tread surfaces802configured to be coplanar to a flooring surface of the upper floor. In the closed state, the steps102close (or close off) the passageway of the staircase100between upper and lower floors. In the closed state, the landing barrier103is configured to be positioned below the upper floor so as to avoid taking up space and creating an obstruction on the upper floor. The top of the landing barrier103can be coplanar with the tread surfaces802and the perimeter base112. The landing barrier103can be positioned so that the top side of the landing barrier103is coplanar with the tread surfaces802of the steps102, the perimeter base112, and the flooring space on the upper floor. In an embodiment, the perimeter base112, the steps102, the top of the landing barrier103, the cover plate108, and the flooring surface of the upper floor are coplanar and contiguous. In an embodiment, in the closed state position, the elongated members113extend below the perimeter base112toward lower floor.

InFIG.1B, the staircase100is in the opened state. In the opened state, the steps102are positioned at varying distances longitudinally along the column101from the upper end116toward the lower end117of the column101so as to form spiraling steps around the column101between the upper and lower floors. The “varying distances” can be measured, for instance, from the upper end116of the column101, such as from the top of the linear guides106(or from the cover plate108that is configured to be coplanar with the flooring surface of the upper floor and the perimeter base112) for instance. The upper floor can be coplanar with the perimeter base112and the tread surfaces802of the steps102. The lower floor can be coplanar with the base plate109or with the base housing105(e.g., a top surface of the base housing) for instance. In the opened state, users can enter and traverse the staircase to go between upper and lower floors of a building, dwelling, or other multiple-story structure for instance. The landing barrier103is positioned above the upper floor so as to enable proper entry into the staircase100from the upper floor in the direction of the spiraling steps around the column; and, prevent improper entry into the staircase100from the upper floor in the direction opposite of the spiraling steps around the column. In the embodiment shown, the landing barrier is positioned above the flooring surface of the upper floor with a portion of the landing barrier remaining below the flooring surface of the upper floor. The elongated members113are positioned around the outer perimeter of the spiraling steps102and function as a side barrier (or safety barrier) through the passageway of the staircase100.

FIG.2Aillustrates a partially exploded view of the column101ofFIGS.1A and1, according to an embodiment.FIG.2Billustrates a perspective view of the column101ofFIG.2Aassembled, according to an embodiment. InFIGS.2A and2B, the column101includes the linear guides106coupled together to form the column101. The column101includes the upper and lower ends116,117and a hollow interior area131formed by the linear guides106. The column101extends longitudinally between the upper and lower ends116,117of the column101, which are respectively positioned at floor level of the upper and lower floors. The linear guides106are elongated and extend longitudinally between the upper and lower ends116,117of the column101. In the embodiment shown, the linear guides106are arranged vertically in a radial pattern to form a hollow cylinder having a substantially circular cross section. In other embodiments, the linear guides106can be arranged so as to form a column having a cross-sectional shape other than a circle, such as an ellipse, square, hexagon, octagon, etc. The column can have any number of sides in other embodiments. The sides may commonly coincide with the number of steps or the number of steps and landing barrier, but are not required to match the number of steps, be radial, or be equidistance. The column101shown includes twelve linear guides106that each couples to a respective one of eleven steps102and the landing barrier103(not shown inFIGS.2A and2B). For example, one reference linear guide106can be coupled to the landing barrier103while each successive linear guide106in a direction around the column101(e.g., clockwise or counter clockwise) can be coupled to each successive spiraling step102down the column101of the staircase100. In this way, the reference linear guide106with the landing barrier103is adjacent to: the linear guide106coupled to an initial spiraled step102(or the first step from the upper floor), and the linear guide106coupled to a final spiraled step102(or the step closest to the lower floor). It should be appreciated that in other embodiments a different number of number of steps102can be implemented as desired, such as to accommodate varying distances between the upper and lower floors, varying distances (or heights) between the steps102, etc.

The plurality of linear guides106are coupled together in multiple segments (e.g., the segments118,119). Each segment118,119includes a subset of the linear guides106. In the embodiment shown, the segment119is shown including seven linear guides106coupled together by coupling elements (of which coupling element121is a representative coupling element). The segment118is shown including five linear guides106, which are also coupled together by coupling elements121(not shown inFIGS.2A and2Bfor the segment118)121. The coupling elements121are shown as plates that are fastened (e.g., bolted or screwed) to the linear guides106from the interior area131(or from the inside, interior side, etc.) of the column101and shaped to accommodate the shape of the column101. The segments (or the subsets of linear guides)118,119are coupled together by the upper and lower housings110,111such that gaps (of which gap132is a representative gap) are formed between the segments118,119of the column101. The representative gap132is shown with dotted lines inFIG.2Abecause of the partially exploded view. The dotted lines represent the “exploded” width of the gap132. The gap132extends longitudinally along the segments118,119between the upper and lower housings. Another gap132is formed at the other end of the segments118,119. Put another way, the gaps132extend longitudinally along the last linear guides106on the ends of the segments118,119between the upper and lower housings110,111. In another embodiment having more than two segments, the gaps132can be formed between adjacent segments.

Within each segment118,119, the stop elements130are coupled to the linear guides106on the outside of the column101. The stop elements130are configured to limit (or stop) the movement of the steps102longitudinally along the linear guides106from the upper end116of the column101towards the lower end117. The stop elements130are positioned such that the steps102are limited at varying distances longitudinally along the linear guides106from the upper end116of the column101toward the lower end117of the column101so as to form spiraling steps around the column101between the upper floor and the lower floor. For example, each of the steps102can be limited at the appropriate distance longitudinally along the linear guides106from the upper end116of the column101toward the lower end117of the column101to create the desired position and height of each step102on the column101. Example distances between each step can vary based on various factors, such as user preference, height between floors, number of steps implemented, etc. Example distances between each step can include, but are not limited to, distances within the range of 5 inches to 15 inches, including 7 inches to 10 inches. In one implementation, the distance between each step is approximately 8.5 inches. The height between the steps102on any single flight (e.g., between the upper and lower floors) can be approximately (or substantially) the same in one implementation. The distance between each step can be derived, for example, by dividing the height between the upper and lower floors by the number of total steps. The steps may generally include either the upper or lower floor (i.e., n+1). However, in another implementation, the distance between any step can be varied to achieve an uneven distribution if desired. In other words, the height between the steps102can vary from step to step. Similarly the height between each step102, the height between the flooring surface of the upper floor and the initial step, and the height between the final step and the flooring surface of the lower floor can be approximately the same in one implementation, and can vary in other implementations. In another embodiment, two or more adjacent steps102can be limited at the same distance longitudinally along the linear guides106from the upper end116of the column101such that the two or more adjacent steps102form an intermediate landing (or a landing partway between the upper and lower floors). It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, more than two segments can be implemented to form the column101; one or more coupling elements121can be implemented on each segment; the number of linear guides106in each segment can vary and is not limited to five and seven as shown inFIGS.2A and2B; or a combination thereof.

The staircase100is configured to transition between states by an actuation system. In an embodiment, the actuation system includes two linear actuators122,123. The column101includes the two linear actuators122,123positioned within the interior area131. The linear actuator122is for moving the lifting platform107longitudinally along the column101(or for moving (e.g., lifting or lowering) the lifting platform107up and down). The linear actuator122extends longitudinally toward the upper and lower end116,117of the column101. The linear actuator122includes the traveling member124that can move longitudinally (or toward the upper and lower ends116,117) within the interior area131. In the embodiment shown, the traveling member124is a ball nut and is coupled to a ball screw125of the linear actuator122. The ball nut124utilizes recirculating ball bearings that rotate around the ball screw125to enable the ball nut124to move (or travel) along the ball screw125. The linear actuator122includes a mount133that couples to the upper housing110, as well as a mount126that extends through the lower housing111to a motor (not shown inFIGS.2A and2B) that supplies rotary motion to drive the ball screw125and move the ball nut124.

The linear actuator123is for moving the landing barrier103(not shown inFIGS.2A and2B) longitudinally along the column101(or for moving (e.g., lifting or lowering) the landing barrier103up and down). The linear actuator123extends longitudinally from the upper end116toward the lower end117of the column101(e.g., toward a middle location135along the height of the column). The linear actuator123should move the landing barrier103at least a sufficient distance to form an effective barrier or railing above the upper floor. Further, the linear actuator123can extend various distances toward the lower end117of the column101in different embodiment to move the landing barrier103different distances below the upper floor. For example, in one implementation, the linear actuator123extends from the upper end116to the middle location135on the column101so that the landing barrier103is positioned between the upper floor and the middle location135of the column in the closed state. In another implementation, the linear actuator123can extend from the upper end116to the lower end117so that the landing barrier103can be positioned at the lower end117of the column101on the lower floor in the closed state. The linear actuator123includes a traveling member127that can move longitudinally along the column101and within the interior area131(or toward the upper and lower ends116,117) so as to move the landing barrier103longitudinally along the column101. InFIG.2A, the traveling member127is shown coupled to an adaptor bracket (e.g., the adaptor bracket1103described inFIG.11) that couples to the landing barrier103. In the embodiment shown, the traveling member127is a ball nut and is coupled to a ball screw128of the linear actuator123. The ball nut127utilizes recirculating ball bearings that rotate around the ball screw128to enable the ball nut127to move along the ball screw128. The linear actuator123also includes a motor129(e.g., a stepper motor or other suitable motor) to drive the ball screw128to move the ball nut127. The linear actuator123can include other components, such as a brake to serve as a safety feature to prevent the landing barrier103from falling during loss of power for instance. The linear actuator123includes a mount134that couples to the upper housing110. In the embodiment shown, the linear actuator122is positioned more centrally located within the column101than the linear actuator123. The term “linear actuator” is used broadly herein to refer generally to any mechanism that can move an object linearly. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the linear actuators can utilize a different mechanism than the ball nut and ball screw to move the traveling member longitudinally within the interior area. For example, the linear actuators can include a lead screw and lead nut, belt and pulley drive, chain drive, a direct drive, hydraulic drive, rack and pinion drive, or other suitable drive, that can move a traveling member, such as a carriage for instance. Furthermore, it should be appreciated that different types of motors can be implemented in various embodiments, such as stepper motors, servo motors, DC motor, hydraulic motor or any other suitable motor.

The lifting platform107is coupled to the traveling member124of the linear actuator122. The lifting platform107is configured to be positioned in the interior area131of the column101and extend outside of the column101. The lifting platform107is further configured to be positioned below the plurality of steps102(not shown inFIGS.2A and2B) when the plurality of steps102are coupled to the column101. The linear actuator122can be used to move (e.g., lift and lower) the lifting platform107longitudinally along the column101to contact and move (e.g., lift and lower) the plurality of steps102longitudinally along the plurality of linear guides106so as to move the plurality of steps102longitudinally along the column101.

The column101also includes upper and lower housings110,111that support and stabilize the column101and also house portions of the linear actuators122,123. The upper and lower housings110,111are positioned in the interior area131of the column101at the respective upper and lower ends116,117of the column101. The upper and lower housings110,111are configured to couple to the linear guides106from the interior area131. The column101also includes the cover plate108(not shown inFIGS.2A and2B; shown inFIGS.1A and1B) that couples to the upper housing110to provide a cover for the upper end116of the column101. The cover plate108can be configured to be positioned coplanar with the tread surfaces802of the steps102when in the closed state. The column101also includes the base plate109(not shown inFIG.2A; shown inFIGS.1A,1, and2B) that couples to the lower housing111to allow the column101to be securely mounted to the base housing105and the lower floor.

The staircase100can be assembled in various manners. An exemplary process to assemble the staircase100is provided below along with additional details about the staircase100and components thereof. It should be appreciated that the staircase100can be assembled in a variety of suitable manners and sequences and that the described method is exemplary and non-limiting. To start, the linear guides106can be coupled together to form the core structure of the column101.FIG.3illustrates a perspective view of the linear guide106ofFIGS.1A and1B, according to an embodiment. InFIG.3, the linear guide106is shown as an elongated member having grooves301and holes (of which hole302is a representative hole). The grooves301extend longitudinally along opposite sides of the elongated member to provide a shape that enables the plurality of steps102and the landing barrier103to couple to the linear guides106and move longitudinally along the linear guides106. The holes302are also positioned down opposite sides of the linear guide106(only one side shown inFIG.3) that correspond to the interior area131(or inside) of the column and the exterior side (or outside) of the column101. The linear guides106can be made from one or more suitable materials, such as metals or metal alloys, with sufficient strength to meet the safety standards for the staircase. Example materials may include, but are not limited to, steel and aluminum.

The coupling elements121can be coupled to multiple linear guides106to secure them together within the segment.FIG.4illustrates a perspective view of the coupling element121ofFIGS.2A and2B, according to an embodiment. InFIG.4, the coupling element121is shown as a bent plate having multiple sections (of which section401is a representative section), with each section401having one or more holes (of which hole402is a representative hole) therein. The coupling element121shown is bent into seven sections401that are configured to align with and abut the seven linear guides106in the segment119. The holes402of the coupling element121are positioned to align with the holes302on the linear guides106on the side of the interior area131. The coupling element121and the linear guides106can be coupled together, such as with bolts, screws, or other fasteners to form the segment119. Similarly, the coupling elements121of the segment118is bent into five sections401having holes402to couple together the five linear guides106to form the segment118.FIG.5illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the segment119of the column101ofFIGS.2A and2Bwith coupling elements121, according to an embodiment. The segment119is shown including the linear guides106coupled together by the coupling element121at various positions along the segment119. The portion of the segment119shown includes four coupling elements121. It should be appreciated that additional coupling elements121may also be included on unshown portion of the segment119. The segment118of the column101ofFIGS.2A and2Bcan be similarly configured with five linear guides106and the coupling elements121. The coupling elements121can be made from one or more suitable materials, such as metals or metal alloys, with sufficient strength to meet the safety standards for the staircase. Example materials may include, but are not limited to, steel and aluminum. The coupling elements could also be formed by various fabrication methods, including, but not limited to, bending, machining, casting, or additive manufacturing.

The linear actuators122,123are to be positioned between the two segments118,119so as to be positioned within the interior area131when the column101is assembled. The linear actuator122is positioned such that the motor can be coupled to the linear actuator122at the lower end117of the column101. The linear actuator123is positioned so that the end of the linear actuator123coupling to the motor129is toward the lower end117of the column101and positioned within the interior area131of the column101. The linear actuators122,123can be coupled to the upper housing111before the upper housing111is coupled to the linear guides106to facilitate assembly of the staircase100.

The lifting platform107can be coupled to the traveling member124of the linear actuator122and then positioned so that part of the lifting platform107will be outside of the column101when the column101is assembled.FIGS.6A and6Billustrate perspective views of respective top and bottom of the lifting platform ofFIGS.1A and1, according to an embodiment. InFIGS.6A and6B, the lifting platform107is shown including a coupling portion601for coupling to the actuation system, a contacting portion602for contacting and moving the plurality of steps longitudinally along the plurality of linear guides, and spokes603extending from the coupling portion601to the contacting portion602. The coupling portion601is configured to be positioned within the interior area131of the column101and couple to the traveling member124of the linear actuator122. The traveling member124is configured to move longitudinally within the interior area114of the column101so as to move the lifting platform107longitudinally along the column101. The coupling portion601is shaped and sized to mate with and secure to the traveling member124(e.g., ball nut). The contacting portion602is configured to be positioned outside of the column101and below the steps102. In this way, the contacting portion602can contact and move the steps102longitudinally along the linear guides106when the lifting platform107is moved by the linear actuator122. In the embodiment shown, the coupling portion601can be coupled to the final step102to guide the lifting platform107and prevent rubbing on either side and to reduce the side loads and buckling loads of the ball screw. Holes620are shown on the contacting portion602of the lifting platform107and can be used to screw, bolt, or otherwise fasten the lifting platform107to the final step102(e.g., to a gusset or a frame of the step).

The spokes603extend from the coupling portion601to the contacting portion602. The spokes603are configured to extend through the respective gaps132formed between the segments118,119. For example, since the segments118,119are to be coupled together by the upper and lower housings110,111at the upper and lower ends116,117of the column, and since none of the coupling elements121extend from one segment to the other, the gaps132are formed between the segments118,119. The gaps132extend longitudinally along the segments118,119from the upper housing110to the lower housing111. The spokes603enable the lifting platform107to be positioned within the interior area131and outside the column101and still move longitudinally along the column101. The lifting platform107is configured to be positioned below the steps102. In this way, the lifting platform107can be configured to move longitudinally along the column101to contact and move the steps102longitudinally along the plurality of linear guides106so as to lift and lower the steps102along the column101. The spokes603are configured to move within the gaps132when the lifting platform107moves longitudinally along the column101. In other embodiments, the lifting platform107can include one or more spokes in various positions; however, the spokes should align with any of the gaps132formed by adjacent segments. In the embodiment shown, for instance, the spokes603can be configured to be approximately 150 degrees from each other.

The contacting portion602of the lifting platform107includes a gap604that enables the lifting platform107to move longitudinally along the column101without being obstructed by the landing barrier103. For example, in the embodiment shown, the lifting platform107is a ring-like structure where the coupling portion601is shaped like a circular ring and the contacting portion602is shaped like a regular dodecagon ring (or a 12-sided polygon ring with equally spaced vertices between sides). The twelve sides of the dodecagon ring are oriented to align with one of the linear guides106. More specifically, the dodecagon ring has eleven sides (of which side605is a representative side) and a missing twelfth side functioning as the gap604. The spokes603extend from the coupling portion601to the specific vertices in the dodecagon ring that correspond to the gaps132between the segments118,119. The missing side of the dodecagon ring that functions as the gap604is positioned to align with the landing barrier103and to be near the specific linear guide106that couples to the landing barrier103, enabling the lifting platform107and the landing barrier103to move past each other unobstructed. It should be appreciated that in other embodiments where a different number of linear guides106are implemented (e.g.,10), the shape of the lifting platform107can be modified accordingly to match the number of linear guides106implemented (e.g., a decagon ring for the10linear guides implemented). The lifting platform107can be made from one or more suitable materials, such as metals or metal alloys, with sufficient strength to meet the safety standards for the staircase. Example materials may include, but are not limited to, steel and aluminum.

The stop elements130can be coupled to the exterior side (or exterior, outside, etc.) of the column101(i.e., the exterior side of the linear guides106that is on the exterior side of the column101). When the column101is assembled with the steps102coupled to the linear guides106, the steps102are configured to move longitudinally along the linear guides106until limited by the stop elements130. The stop elements130can be made from one or more suitable materials, such as metals or metal alloys, with sufficient strength to meet the safety standards for the staircase. Example materials may include, but are not limited to, steel and aluminum.FIG.7illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary stop element130, according to an embodiment. The stop element130is shown as a bent plate having multiple sections (of which sections701,702are representative sections). The two sections701,702are configured to align with and abut two adjacent linear guides106. Each of the sections701,702can have one or more holes (of which hole704is a representative hole) therein. The holes704of the stop element130are positioned to align with the holes302on the side of the linear guides106outside of the column101. In this way, the stop elements130and the linear guides106can be coupled together, such as fastened with bolts or screws through the holes704,302, and also can serve to help support and form the segment119. The section702couples to one linear guide106and includes a contacting portion703that is positioned to contact and stop the movement of the step longitudinally along that linear rail106. The section701is coupled to the adjacent linear guide with the adjacent step—i.e., the adjacent step closer to the upper floor when the steps102are spiraled. It should be appreciated that each of the stop elements130for all of the steps102can have different shapes from one another but should function to limit the steps102at the appropriate positions (or varying distances from the upper end116). For example, one or more stops130can be configured without section701and only couple to one linear guide. Furthermore, since the holes704on each stop element130are to align with the holes302on the linear guides106for coupling, the length (or height) of each contacting portion703can vary as needed to ensure that the all of the steps102are limited at the appropriate distances along the linear guides106(i.e., at the appropriate locations along the column101) to form the spiraling steps.

Each of the steps102are to be coupled to the linear guides106having the stop elements130coupled thereto. To facilitate assembly of the staircase100, the steps102can be coupled to the linear rails106after the linear rails106are coupled to the upper housing111, which has the linear actuator122,123coupled thereto.FIG.8illustrates a perspective view of one of the steps102ofFIGS.1A and1B, according to an embodiment. InFIG.8, the step102is shown including a frame801, a tread surface802coupled to the frame801, a coupling member803coupled to the frame801, and holes804positioned in an outer perimeter810of the frame801with respect to the column101. Each step102includes the coupling member803and couples to a different linear guide106. The coupling member803shown is a carriage having a channel806shaped and sized to securely couple to and move (or slide) along the grooves301of the linear guide106. During coupling, one end of the linear guide106can be inserted within the channel806to appropriately align the grooves301with the channel806. The frame801includes a gusset805that provides additional support for the step102. The gusset805can be configured to contact the contacting portion703of the stop element130when the step102is being limited by the stop element130. The holes804are sized to enable the elongated members113to fit within, and move through, the holes804. In an embodiment, the holes804are oblong to facilitate the elongated members113remaining fixed while the steps102are move up and down the column101. The holes804are positioned to accommodate the desired distance between the elongated members113, which serve as a safety wall or obstruction to prevent users from falling off of the staircase100. The spacing (or distance) between elongated members113, and corresponding spacing between holes804on the step102, can vary in different embodiments but should be close enough to function to prevent users from falling off the staircase100and to meet any safety standards or regulations that may be applicable to safety railings. Example spacing between elongated members can include, but are not limited to, 10 inches or less, such as 6 inches or less. In one implementation, the elongated members113are positioned at 10 degree increments around the perimeter base112and provide less than 4 inch spacing on center (or center-to-center). The elongated members113can also function as hand railings that a user can hold on to while traversing the staircase100. It should be appreciated that the number of holes804on each step102can vary in other embodiments to accommodate a different number of elongated members113.

When the steps102are in the closed state, the steps are shaped and sized to fit together to form a surface that is coplanar with each other and the flooring surface of the upper floor. In the embodiment shown, eleven steps102are implemented in total and form a circle when positioned at the upper end116in the closed state. In the embodiment shown inFIGS.1A and1, ten of the steps102are shaped as 30-degree wedges with an eleventh step shaped as a 60-degree wedge to serve as a landing step (or the initial step from the upper floor). The number of steps102, and the distance between each step102, can vary in different embodiments depending on various factors, such as the distance between the upper and lower floors, the appropriate or desired height of each step, etc. For example, in another embodiment, twelve steps shaped as 30 degree wedges can be implemented but would require an additional linear guide. In other embodiments, the steps102can form a collective shape other than a circle when in the closed state, such as a decagon, hexagon, square, rectangle, ellipse, or other suitable shape. Depending on the collective shape of the steps102, each of the steps102may not necessarily be the same shape. In embodiments where the steps102form a different collective shape, the perimeter base112can have a different shape (i.e., not a circle) that matches the collective shape of the steps102.

The frame801and the tread surface802can be made of one or more suitable materials sturdy and strong enough to safely support the anticipated load (e.g., weight of people walking on the steps) and to meet any safety standards or regulations that may be applicable. Example materials for the frame801may include, but are not limited to, metals, metal alloys, such as aluminum, stainless steel, galvanized steel, wrought iron, etc. Example materials for the tread surfaces802may include, but are not limited to, metals, metal alloys, woods, and glass. In the embodiment shown, the frame801can be made with a metal or metal alloy while the tread surfaces802is made with a transparent material, such as laminated tempered glass to provide impact resistance and enable the step102to be see through. In this way, when all of the steps102are positioned at the upper end116, the steps102form a substantially see-through flooring that allows people on the upper and lower floors to see into the other floor. In another embodiment, the tread surfaces802can be made with a non-transparent material or materials with reduced transparency. The materials of the tread surfaces802, as well as designs included on the tread surfaces, can be selected to create different designs, patterns, message, etc. (e.g., for each step individually, or for all steps collectively when the staircase is in a closed state) and can include inlays, mosaics, lettering, words, messaging, emblems, logos, etc. In one instance, the perimeter base112, steps102, and the cover plate108are made of materials, or otherwise designed to look in a manner, that conceals the existence of the stairway100from the upper floor. In yet another embodiment, the tread surface802and the metal frame801can be a single unitary element made from the same material.

FIG.9illustrates a perspective view of a portion of the column101inFIG.1Bwhen the steps102are limited by the stop elements130, according to an embodiment. InFIG.9, two exemplary stop elements130a,130bare shown contacting and limiting exemplary steps102a,102b, respectively, on column101. The stop element130ais shown coupled to the column101and limiting the movement of a step102alongitudinally along a linear guide106a. The stop element130ais positioned on the column101such that the step102ais limited at the desired distance longitudinally along the linear guide106afrom the upper end116of the column101toward the lower end117of the column101. The step102ashould be limited at the appropriate distance for forming spiraling steps around the column101between the upper floor and the lower floor. The stop element130aincludes sections702,701, which are coupled to (e.g., bolted or screwed to) linear guides106a,106b, respectively. The contacting portion703of the section702is positioned along the linear guide106aso as to contact the step102aand limit its longitudinal movement at the appropriate position along the linear guide106atoward the lower end117of the column101, as shown inFIG.9. Similarly, the stop element130bis shown coupled to the column101and limiting the movement of the step102blongitudinally along the linear guide106b. The section701of the stop element130ais coupled to the linear guide106band does not obstruct the movement of step102bbecause the step102bis limited above (or higher than) the stop element130aby the stop element130b.

The linear guide106coupled to the landing barrier103is positioned next to one of the gaps132formed between the segments118,119. In this way, the traveling member127can extend through the gap132to couple to the landing barrier103(i.e., to the coupling member1003), and to move longitudinally within the gap132without being obstructed. In such case, the traveling member127is moving longitudinally along the column101and: within the interior area131of the column, within the gap132, and partially outside of the column101. Furthermore, the linear guide106coupled to the landing barrier103is configured to be positioned such that the landing barrier103is within the gap604of the lifting platform107. In this way, sufficient space can be provided for the coupling member (e.g., the coupling member1003ofFIGS.10and11) of the landing barrier103to move longitudinally along the column101without being obstructed. The linear guide106coupled to the initial spiraled step102from the upper floor can be positioned next to (clockwise or counter clockwise depending on the direction of the steps) the linear guide106coupled to the landing barrier103, with each successive linear guide106in the same direction coupled to each successive spiraled step102down the staircase100. For the stop element130for the initial spiraled step102from the upper floor, the section702of the stop element130should be shaped and sized so that it does not prevent movement of the landing barrier along its corresponding linear guide106. In some instances, if necessary to enable complete and unobstructed movement of the landing barrier103, the stop element130for the initial spiraled step from the upper floor can couple to only one linear guide106and not include the section701. Also shown inFIG.9is the elongated member113extending through the hole804in the step102a. A stop element (e.g., the stop element2004ofFIG.20A) is shown coupled to the distal end of the elongated member113(or the end of the elongated member113that is distal to the perimeter base112). The stop element abuts the outer perimeter810of the frame801to provide support to the step.

The landing barrier103is to be coupled to the linear guide106without a step102. The linear guide106with the landing barrier103is positioned between to the linear guides106coupled to the initial spiraled step and the final spiraled step. To facilitate assembly of the staircase100, the landing barrier103can be coupled to the linear rail106after the linear rails106are coupled to the housing. The landing barrier103is positioned above, and coupled to, the traveling member127of the linear actuator123.FIG.10illustrates a perspective view of the landing barrier103ofFIGS.1A and1, according to an embodiment. InFIG.10, the landing barrier103is shown including a frame1001around the perimeter of the landing barrier103, multiple elongated members (of which elongated member1002is a representative elongated member) extending across the landing barrier103, a coupling member1003coupled to the frame1001, a latch triggering member1004coupled to the frame1001, and a plate1005coupled to the lower end (or end closest to the lower end117of the column101) of the landing barrier103. The frame1001and the elongated members1002can be made from one or more suitable materials that is sufficiently sturdy and strong enough to resist the lateral force from someone falling against it and to meet any safety standards or regulations that may be applicable. Example materials may include, but are not limited to, metals, metal alloys, woods, glass, polymeric materials, or combination thereof. In an embodiment, the frame1001and the elongated members1002are made from aluminum, stainless steel, galvanized steel, or wrought iron. In other embodiments, the landing barrier103can be generally solid and not include the elongated members1002. The plate1005can be optionally included to both sides of the landing barrier103to increase stiffness and support to the landing barrier103. The plate1005can made from one or more suitable materials, such as metals, metal alloys, woods, glass, polymeric material, or combination thereof. In an embodiment, for example, the plate1005can be a flat metal sheet, such as a sheet of stainless steel.

FIG.11illustrates a close-up perspective view of the coupling member1003shown inFIG.10, according to an embodiment. InFIG.11, the coupling member1003shown includes a body (or carriage)1110having a channel1101shaped and sized to securely couple to, and move (or slide) along, the grooves301of the linear guide106in which it is coupled. During coupling, one end of the linear guide106can be inserted within the channel1102to appropriately align the grooves301with the channel1102. With the landing barrier103positioned outside of the column101, an adaptor bracket1103on the coupling member1003can be coupled to (e.g., bolted to, screwed to, etc.) the traveling member127(also shown inFIG.11for clarity)(e.g., the ball nut) of the linear actuator123. The linear guide106coupled to the landing barrier103is positioned next to one of the gaps132formed between the segments118,119. In this way, the adaptor bracket1103can extend through one of the gaps132formed between the segments118,119in order to couple to the landing barrier103(e.g., the frame1001) and to move longitudinally within the gap132. The linear guide106coupled to the landing barrier103is also positioned near the gap604in the lifting platform107. In this way, the adaptor bracket1103can move longitudinally132along the column101and pass through the gap132without being obstructed by the lifting platform107. The coupling member1003is shown including two carriages to provide additional support to increase resistance to side loads.

FIG.12illustrates a close-up perspective view of the latch triggering member1004shown inFIG.10, according to an embodiment. InFIG.12, the latch triggering member1004is shown including a body1201, a spring plunger1202coupled to the body1201, and a pulley1203coupled to the body1201. When the landing barrier103is fully raised above the upper floor, the spring plunger1202is positioned so as to contact a trigger plate on the latch actuator (e.g., trigger plate2104and latch actuator114ofFIGS.21A-D) to unlatch (or retract) latching members on the latch actuator114. When the landing barrier103is fully raised, the pulley1203is positioned so as to contact and pull a cable (e.g., cable2109described inFIGS.20B,21A-D, and22) coupled to the multiple latches115positioned around the perimeter base112. When the cable is pulled by the pulley1203, the latches are unlatched. The unlatching of the latches115and the latch on the latch actuator114enables the steps102to move from the upper end116of the column101toward the lower end117. The spring plunger1202and the pulley1203can be coupled to the body1201by any suitable fastening mechanism, such as bolts, screws, etc. Another contacting element, such as a protruding rod, can be used instead of the spring plunger1202in other embodiments. The spring plunger1202, however, allows for leeway for positioning and timing when coordinating the pulley1203, tension of the cable, the trigger plate2104, and the spring plunger1202.

FIGS.13and14illustrate perspective views of the respective upper and lower housings110,111of the column101inFIGS.1A and1, according to an embodiment. InFIG.13, the upper housing110is shown including an outer perimeter portion1301and an inner portion1302. InFIG.14, the lower housing111is shown including an outer perimeter portion1401and a hollow inner area1402. In the embodiments shown, the upper and lower housings110,111are generally cylindrically shaped with twelve rows of holes (of which holes1305,1405are representative holes, respectively) positioned around the housings110,111to align with and secure to the linear guides106of the segments118,119. The outer perimeter portions1301,1401have twelve facets or flat areas (of which facets1306,1406are representative facets, respectively) for each of the linear guides106to abut. The twelve rows of holes1305,1405are positioned respectively within the twelve facets1306,1406and are configured to couple (e.g., bolt, screw, or otherwise fasten) the outer perimeter portions1301,1401to the inside of the linear guides106(or the side of the linear guides that is within the interior area131of the column101) at the upper and lower ends116,117of the column101, respectively. When coupled to the linear guides106, the upper and lower housings110,111secure the segments118,119of the column101together and provide additional support for the column101.

The inner portion1302of the upper housing110is configured to couple to the mounts133,134of the linear actuators122,123, respectively. The inner portion1302includes recesses1303,1304that receive the mounts133,134, respectively. In an embodiment, the recess1304is offset from the center of the upper housing110and positioned closer to the outer perimeter portion1301to facilitate coupling of the linear actuator123with the landing barrier103. The recess1303can be positioned slightly offset from the center of the upper housing110to position the linear actuator122near the center of the column101but offset so as to make room for the linear actuator123and its drive motor129. In other implementations, the column101can be configured larger to provide sufficient room to center the linear actuator122within the column101. The mounts133,134can include bearings that reside within the respective recesses1303,1304to enable the respective ball screws125,128to rotate. In one embodiment, for instance, angular contact bearings can be used to provide support for the side load as well as the axial load. To mitigate the coupling load on the ball screw, a bearing nut, retainer clip, shear pin, snap ring or similar device can be positioned on the angular contact bearing such that the ball screw (or shaft) is placed in tension instead of compression. As a result, the ball screw extends from the upper housing110and can take a greater load without buckling in comparison to the load being put straight down into the lower housing111.

The mounts133,134can be secured to the upper housing110by bearing nut, retainer clip, shear pin, snap ring or similar device. The hollow inner area1402of the lower housing111enables the mount126to pass through the lower housing111and couple to a motor that is positioned below the lower floor. Furthermore, the outer perimeter portion1301includes holes1307on its top surface to couple (e.g., bolt, screw, or otherwise fasten) the cover plate108to the upper housing110. In this way, the cover plate108covers the upper end116of the column101. Similarly, the outer perimeter portion1401of the lower housing111includes similar holes (not shown inFIG.14) on its bottom side to couple (e.g., bolt, screw, or otherwise fasten) the base plate109to the lower housing111. The base plate109can be coupled to the base housing105and to the lower floor to secure the column101. The upper and lower housings110,111can be made from one or more suitable materials, such as metals or metal alloys, with sufficient strength to meet the safety standards for the staircase. Example materials may include, but are not limited to, steel and aluminum.

FIG.15Aillustrates a perspective view of the upper housing110ofFIGS.13and14, respectively, when coupled to the column101, according to an embodiment. InFIG.15A, the upper housing110is shown with the outer portion1301coupled to the inside of the linear guides106of the column101. The mounts133,134of the respective linear actuators122,123are shown coupled to the inner portion1302of the upper housing110.FIG.15Billustrates a partially exploded top view of the column101, according to an embodiment. InFIG.15B, the column is shown including the segments118,119, the lifting platform107, the upper housing110, and the mounts133,134of the respective linear actuators122,123(e.g., the respective ball screws125,128). The coupling elements121are shown coupled to the inside of the linear guides106of the respective segments119,118to secure the linear guides of each segment together. When the segments118,119are coupled to the upper and lower housings110,111, gaps are formed between and along adjacent linear guides from the two segments110,118(or put another way, the linear guides on the end of the segments). For example, gaps are formed between and along the two adjacent linear guides106indicated with reference numerals1551,1552inFIG.15B, and the two adjacent linear guides106indicated with reference numerals1553,1554inFIG.15B. The spokes603of the lifting platform107are configured to extend through the gaps and move longitudinally along these gaps. The adaptor bracket1103on the landing barrier103is positioned to align with the gap604of the lifting platform107. Furthermore, the traveling member127extends through the gap formed between the adjacent linear rails1553,1554to couple to the adaptor bracket1103. For example, in the embodiment shown inFIG.15B, the landing barrier103can be coupled to the linear rail1553to allow the adaptor bracket1103to align with the gap604and to allow the traveling member127to extend through the gap formed between the adjacent linear rails1553,1554. In addition, the holes620on the lifting platform107can couple to the final step (i.e., final spiraled step).FIG.16illustrates a perspective view of the lower housing111ofFIGS.13and14, respectively, when coupled to the column101, according to an embodiment. InFIG.16, the lower housing111is shown with the outer portion1401coupled to the inside of the linear guides106of the column101. The mount126of the linear actuator122is shown extending through inner area1402of the inner housing111and in position to be coupled to the motor that drives the linear actuator122. It should be appreciated that the order of assembly of the components of the staircase100described herein can vary from that described for the figures. For example, the steps102and the landing barrier103can be coupled to the column101after the column101has already been assembled to include the linear guides106, the coupling elements121, the lifting platform107, the hard stops130, the linear actuators122,123, and the upper and lower housings110,111have been assembled.

The cover plate108can be coupled to the upper end116of the column101.FIG.17illustrates a top view of the cover plate108ofFIGS.1A and1, according to an embodiment. The cover plate108can be shaped and sized to cover the upper end116of the column101. In the embodiment shown, the cover plate108has a dodecagon shape (or alternatively a circular shape) to match and cover the upper end116of the column101. A top surface1701of the cover plate108is configured to be coplanar with the tread surfaces802of the steps102when the staircase is in the closed state so that the upper floor has a coplanar flooring surface. In an embodiment, the cover plate can be secured to the top of the column101with an adhesive. For instance, the cover plate can be glass and secured using an adhesive commonly used in the glass industry. In another embodiment, the cover plate108can include holes on its bottom side (not shown inFIG.14) that are positioned to align with the holes1307on the upper housing110to couple (e.g., bolt, screw, or otherwise fasten) the cover plate108to the upper housing110. The base plate109can be coupled to the lower end117of the column101.FIG.18illustrates a perspective view of the base plate109ofFIGS.1A and1B, according to an embodiment. The base plate109is shown including holes (of which hole1801is a representative hole) that align with the holes in the outer perimeter1401of the lower housing111so that the base plate109can couple (e.g., bolt, screw, or otherwise fasten) to the lower housing111. The base plate109also includes a hole1802that is positioned and sized to allow the mount126of the linear actuator122to pass through. The base plate109also includes holes (of which hole1803is a representative hole) that are used to couple the base plate109to the base housing105and secure the column101to the lower floor. The cover plate108and the base plate109can be made from any variety of materials sufficient in strength to safely support a substantial load and to meet any safety standards or regulations that may be applicable. The base plate109is structural and serves as the main interface between the column101and the lower floor or base housing. The cover plate108is structural in the sense that is should support foot traffic and other common floor loads. Example materials for the cover plate108and the base plate109may include, but are not limited to, metals, metal alloys, woods, glass, stone, polymeric materials, or combination thereof. In some implementations, the cover plate108can be made from one or more materials to match the tread surfaces of the steps, surrounding flooring surface, or both. In an embodiment, the cover plate108and the tread surfaces are made of glass, while the base plate109is made of a metal or metal alloy, such as aluminum or stainless steel.

The base housing105, which couples to the lower floor and houses the motor of the linear actuator122, can be coupled to base plate109of the column101, and the motor for the linear actuator122can be coupled to the mount126on the linear actuator122.FIG.19illustrates a perspective view of the base housing105and a motor and drive system for the linear actuator122ofFIGS.1A and1Bwhen coupled to the column101, according to an embodiment. InFIG.19, the base housing105includes a body that is used to help secure the column101to the lower floor and to house or cover the motor and drive system1901of the linear actuator122. The base housing105can include holes (of which hole1902is a representative hole and shown including a bolt therethrough) for fastening (e.g., bolting, screwing, etc.) to the lower housing111. The base housing105also includes holes (of which hole1903is a representative hole) that are used to fasten (e.g., bolting, screwing, etc.) the base housing105to the lower floor. The base housing105can be positioned below (or within) the lower floor so as to be hidden under the flooring surface. In another implementation, the base housing105can be positioned to sit flush with the flooring surface. While the base housing105can be positioned above the flooring surface, doing so may create a tripping hazard.

The motor and drive system1901is coupled to the mount126and positioned below the base housing105to remain covered and out of sight. Any suitable motor and drive system1901can be implemented to drive the linear actuator122and move the traveling member125longitudinally within the interior area131of the column. Example motors can include, but are not limited to, stepper motors, servo motors, DC motors, hydraulic motors or any other type of motor. Example drive systems can include, but are not limited to, lead screw and lead nut, belt and pulley drive, chain drive, a direct drive, hydraulic drive, etc. The motor and drive system1901can include additional components, such as a speed reducer or enhancer (depending on the pitch of the ball screw for instance), a brake that serves as a safety feature (e.g., to prevent the steps from falling during loss of power for instance), etc. In the embodiment shown, the motor and drive system1901includes a servo motor that is mounted to a worm gear in a right angle gear head. The ratio of the gear drive can vary based on factors, such as the load, desired speed, motor, the pitch of the ball screw125, etc. In one exemplary implementation of the embodiment shown, a 7.5 to 1 gear drive can be used. The right angle gear head enables power to be transmitted from the motor to the ball screw at a right angle to allow the motor and drive system1901to be mounted parallel to the lower floor for space saving benefits. The right angle gear head can also include other components, such as a brake to serve as a safety feature. The motor and drive system1901is coupled to the mount126on the ball screw125of the linear actuator122and can turn the ball screw125to move (e.g., lift and lower) the traveling member124longitudinally within the interior area131of the column101.

FIG.20Aillustrates a perspective view of the outer perimeter assembly104, according to an embodiment. InFIG.20A, the outer perimeter assembly104is shown including the perimeter base112, the plurality of elongated members113coupled to the perimeter base112, the latch actuator114coupled to the perimeter base112, and the plurality of latches115coupled to the perimeter base112. The perimeter base112is configured to be positioned within the upper floor and extend around the outer perimeter of the steps102(when viewed from a top view of the staircase100). A top surface2001of the perimeter base112is configured to be coplanar with the flooring surface of the upper floor. The elongated members113are coupled to the perimeter base112and configured to extend longitudinally the appropriate distances (or lengths) from the perimeter base112to the steps102when the staircase100is in the opened state. The elongated members113can be coupled to the outer perimeter of the steps102so as to form a side barrier (or safety barrier) around the outer perimeter of the spiraling steps102when the staircase is in the opened state. In the embodiment shown, the perimeter base112includes holes (of which hole2002is a representative hole) to couple (e.g., bolt, screw, or otherwise fasten) the perimeter base112within a hole in the upper floor and secure it in place. The size of the perimeter base112and hole in the upper floor can vary based on a variety of factors and applications, such as the desired size of the staircase, the room layout, etc. Example sizes of the perimeter base112can include, but are not limited to, a diameter within the range of 40 inches to 80 inches, such as 55 inches to 65 inches. In an embodiment, the diameter is approximately 60 inches. These example ranges are not intended to be limiting. Furthermore, the perimeter base112is shown having a shape as a circle. In other embodiment, the perimeter base112can include a shape other than a circle, such as a decagon, hexagon, square, rectangle, ellipse, or other suitable shape. In such embodiments, the steps102can have a shape that matches the shape of the steps102.

The elongated members113can be coupled to the perimeter base112in a variety of suitable manners. For example, in one embodiment, a retaining ring groove at the proximal end of the elongated member113with an external retaining ring. In another embodiment, the elongated member113can include a head or threaded end. The perimeter base112can include holes2003that are used to couple the elongated members113to the perimeter base112. For example, the elongated member113can include a head at its proximal end (or the end proximal to the perimeter base112) and threading at its distal end (or the end distal to the perimeter base). Once the elongated members113are inserted through the holes2003, the heads and appropriately sized retaining rings (or nut if the proximal end of the elongated member113is also threaded) can be used to fix or otherwise secure the proximal end of the elongated member113to the perimeter base112. If the head of the elongated member113protrudes from the top surface2001of the perimeter base112, a safety hazard may exist. Thus, in one implementation to avoid such a possible hazard, the perimeter base112can be configured so that its holes2003are set back within a slight recess, or within a lower layer of the perimeter base112, so that the head of the elongated members113can be coplanar with, or sit below, the top surface2001. In another embodiment, the elongated members113can be secured to anchoring components positioned beneath the perimeter base113. The anchoring components can, for example, be secured to bottom of the perimeter base113and include holes (similar to the holes2003) for securing the elongated members to the perimeter base113. In yet another embodiment, the proximal end of the elongated members113can be threaded (without a head) and configured to screw into the holes2003, which have also been threaded to mate with the elongated members113.

To couple to the steps102, the elongated members113can be inserted through the corresponding holes804of the frames801of the steps102. Once extending through the holes804, stop elements2004can be positioned at the distal end of the elongated members113to prevent (or stop) the elongated members113from being removed from the holes804in the steps102. For example, the stop elements2004can be threaded caps, nuts, etc., that securely fasten to the distal end of the elongated members113but are too large to pass through the holes804in the frame801of the steps102. The stop elements2004can also provide additional support for the steps102when abutting the steps102in the opened state of the staircase100. In an embodiment, the stop elements2004can include double nuts that can be adjusted so that the stop elements2004abut the steps102.

In another embodiment, the elongated members113can be extend from the perimeter base112but not couple to the steps102(e.g., extend through the holes804in the steps102). For instance, the steps102may not extend all the way to the elongated members113. As the steps102are not supported by the stop elements2004on the elongated members113, the steps102should be strong enough to be cantilevered from the column101. For example, the coupling member803can be reinforced (e.g., with two carriages, or one larger carriage) to provide additional support to the cantilevered step102; the steps102can include a stronger gusset to provide additional support, etc.

In yet another embodiment, the elongated members113pass through the holes804in the steps102, but extend completely to the lower floor and secured at the floor (rather than terminate below each step when in the open state and hang in the air on the lower floor when the closed state). The elongated members113can still include the stop elements2004at each step height, but the elongated member113would continue to extend down to the floor from there. The stop elements2004can be threaded, secured with a retaining clip, clamp, screws, etc.

In yet another embodiment, the elongated members113can be eliminated entirely. In such case, the steps102should be sufficiently strong without the support from the elongated members113. Further, there can be some other means of fall protection at the perimeter, such as an adjacent wall, fixed railing, balusters, handrail, etc.

In yet another embodiment, the elongated members113can be retractable. For example, the elongated members113can be a telescoping poles that are coupled to the perimeter base112and to the steps102. The telescoping poles extend as the steps102are lowered and retract as the steps102are raised. The length of the telescoping poles can be adjusted to allow the steps102to reach their opened state positions when fully extended so that they can also provide support to the steps102. In yet another embodiment, the elongated members113can include retractable cables that are coupled to the perimeter base and the steps102. For example, the cables can be configured to extend (e.g., unwind) from spools as the steps102are lowered and retract (e.g., wind) around spools as the steps102are raised. The spools can be coupled to the perimeter base112or to the steps102in different embodiments. Stop elements can also be positioned on the cables at the appropriate lengths to abut and support the steps102when in the opened state.

FIG.20Billustrates a top view of the outer perimeter assembly104ofFIG.20Awhen latching the steps102in position in the closed state of the staircase, according to an embodiment. As shown inFIG.20B, the outer perimeter assembly104includes one latch actuator114and eleven latches115positioned around the perimeter base112, such as every 30 degrees. The latch actuator114is positioned between the initial and final steps102(indicated inFIG.20Bwith reference numbers2030and2031, respectively), which are spaced slightly apart to permit the landing barrier to pass through. The latch actuator114includes two latching members (e.g., latching members2103described later inFIGS.21A-D)—one latching member contacting and latching the initial step2030and the other contacting and latching the final step2031. The two latching members are spaced far enough apart to enable the landing barrier103to pass through. The latches115are positioned at the remaining points between the steps102. Each of the latches115includes a latching member (e.g., latching member2203ofFIG.22) that is wide enough to contact and latch the two steps102that it sits between. In the embodiment shown, the initial step2030has double the width (e.g., 60 degrees instead of 30 degrees) of the other steps102, and one of the eleven latches115is positioned in middle of the initial step2030. When the steps102are latched in the closed state position, the steps102cannot move down the column101to the open state position until the latching members of the latch actuator114and the latches115are retracted and unlatched. A cable (e.g., cable2109described inFIGS.21A-Dand22) is configured to extend through the latch actuator114and be routed in each direction around the perimeter base112to couple to multiple latches on each side. For example, in the embodiment shown, the cable2109is routed to five latches115to one side of the latch actuator114, and to six latches115to the other side of the latch actuator114. The latch actuator114is configured to pull on the cable2109(in the direction shown by the dotted arrows) when triggered to switch the latches115from the latched state to the unlatched state, as will be described in more detail inFIGS.21A-D, and22.

FIG.20Cillustrates a close-up perspective view of one of the latches115on a portion of the outer perimeter assembly104ofFIG.20A, according to an embodiment. As shown inFIG.20C, the latch115is shown coupled to (e.g., bolted to, screwed to, or otherwise fastened to) the outer perimeter assembly104and positioned below the perimeter base112. A latching member2203is configured to extend out from below the perimeter base112when in a latched state (as shown inFIG.20C) and to retract (or rotate) back under the perimeter base112to enter an unlatched state via the cable2109. A contacting surface2208of the latching member2203contacts and supports the steps102when latched in the closed state. The latch actuator114can be similarly positioned along the perimeter base112to move a latching member (e.g., the latching members2103) between latched and unlatched states. Further details regarding the latching actuator114and the latches115are provided in inFIGS.21A-D, and22.

FIGS.21A and21Billustrate perspective and cross-sectional side views, respectively, of the latch actuator114inFIG.20Awhen latched, according to an embodiment.FIGS.21C and21Dillustrate cross-sectional side view and front view, respectively, of the latch actuator114inFIG.20Awhen unlatched, according to an embodiment. InFIGS.21A-D, the latch actuator114is shown including a body2101, two pulleys2102, latching members2103, a trigger plate2104, entry port2105, cable ports2188, two racks2106a,2106b, a pinion2107, and a cable2109. The latch actuator114is positioned below the perimeter base112such that the latching members2103extend out from the perimeter base112when in the latched state and are retracted back under the perimeter base112when in the unlatched state. The latching members2103are generally V-shaped and rotatably coupled to the body2101. One end of each latching member2103is coupled to the rack2106aand the other end of each latching member2103has a contact surface2108. The pinion2107is positioned between the racks2106a,2106b. The trigger plate2104is coupled to the end of the rack2106band is positioned above the entry port2105. InFIGS.21A and21B, the racks2106a,2106b, pinion2107, and the latching members2103are biased in the “latched state” (or latched). When the staircase100is in the closed state, the latching members2103are in the latched state with the contact surfaces2108positioned below, and abutting, the initial and final steps2030,2031to support and further secure the initial and final steps2030,2031in its position in the closed state of the staircase100. For instance, one of the contact surfaces2108can be positioned under the initial step2030and the other positioned under the final step2031. The latch actuator114is positioned to align with the latch triggering member1004of the landing barrier103; and more specifically, positioned so that the spring plunger1202and the pulley1203on the landing barrier103will enter the entry port2105of the latch actuator114when the landing barrier103is raised all the way up the column101. As the landing barrier103is raised, the spring plunger1202enters the entry port2105and pushes the trigger plate2104up, which in turn moves the racks2016and pinion2107such that the latching members2108are unlatched (or rotated into the unlatched state), as represented by the dotted arrows inFIG.21C. In the unlatched state, the contacting surfaces2108are no longer positioned below the initial and final steps2030,2031, thereby allowing the initial and final steps2030,2031to move down the column. InFIGS.21A and21B, the cable2109extends through the cable ports2188. The cable2109extends around the perimeter base112and couples to the remaining latches115. InFIGS.21A and21B, the cable2109is shown biased in a state that maintains the latches115in a latched state (or latched). As the landing barrier103is raised, the pulley1203on the landing barrier103enters the entry port2105and pulls the cable2109up between the two pulleys2102on the latch actuator114, which in turn pulls the cable2209on both sides of the latch actuator114around the perimeter base112to trigger the latches115to unlatch, as represented by the dotted arrows shown inFIG.21D.

FIG.22illustrates a perspective view of the latch115ofFIG.20Awhen in the latched state, respectively, according to an embodiment. InFIG.22, the latch actuator114is shown including a body2201, a pulley2202, the latching member2203, cable ports2206, and cables2109,2209. Multiple latches can be positioned around the perimeter base112to support and further secure any of the steps102in their positions in the closed state of the staircase100. The latches115are positioned below the perimeter base112such that the latches2203extend out from the perimeter base112when in the latched state and retracted back under the perimeter base112when in the unlatched state. The latching member2203includes the contact surface2208at one end and is rotatably coupled to the body2101at its other end. InFIG.22, the latching member2203is biased in the “latched state” (or latched). When the staircase100is in the closed state, the latching member2203is in the latched state with the contact surface2208positioned below, and abutting, two adjacent steps102corresponding to where it is positioned. InFIG.22, the cable2109extends through the cable ports2206and couples to the latch actuator114and the other latches115. A cable splice2210is provided to couple the cable2209with the continuous cable2109. The cable2209is coupled to the latching member2203and is configured move the latching member2203from the latched state to the unlatched state when pulled. InFIG.22, the cables2109,2209are shown biased in a state that maintains the latch115in a latched state (or latched). In the latched state, the latching member2203is positioned with the contacting surface2208extending out from the below the perimeter base112. As the landing barrier103is raised, the pulley1203on the landing barrier103enters the entry port2105and pulls the cable2109(as shown inFIG.21D), which in turn pulls the cable2209to unlatch the latch115by retracting the latching member2203back toward the body2201of the latch115so that the contacting surface2208is retracted back below the perimeter base112, as represented by the direction of the dotted arrows. In the unlatched state, the contacting surface2208is no longer positioned below two adjacent steps102to prevent them from moving down the column101. In an alternative embodiment, each of the latches115can include a separate motor that is configured to switch a latching mechanism (e.g., solenoid or mechanical coupling element) between latched and unlatched states. In such case, the cable2109and the pulley1203on the latch triggering member1004are not implemented. Instead, the latch actuator can include an electronic circuitry that activates the motors to the latching mechanism to switch between the latched to unlatched state. For example, the electronic circuitry can include an electrical switch that is closed by the spring plunger when it comes in contact with the latch actuator114, which triggers (e.g., send an electrical signal to the motors) the latches115to unlatch. Any suitable over-the-counter electric motors and latching system can be coupled to the bottom of the perimeter base112and configured to latch and unlatch at times similar to when the latches115ofFIG.22are latched and unlatched.

In an embodiment, the staircase100can include a wall barrier that is configured to serve as a safety barrier extending from the landing barrier103to a nearby wall. For example, the staircase100can be installed in a room and enclosed within four walls, including the nearby wall with the wall barrier. The four walls can be close enough to enclose the staircase100such that the wall barrier and four walls can work in conjunction to prevent access to the staircase from everywhere except the landing or initial step. In this way, people are prevented from walking around the landing barrier103and potentially falling down the staircase100. In some applications, the lower floor may also include four walls that enclose the staircase100and act as a safety feature to block off the elongated members113and landing barrier103when in the closed state.FIG.23Aillustrates a perspective view of an exemplary wall barrier, according to an embodiment.FIGS.23B,23C, and23Dillustrate perspective views of the staircase100ofFIG.1implemented with the wall barrier ofFIG.23Apositioned at various states within an enclosed room, according to an embodiment.FIGS.23A-Dare described here together. For the sake of brevity and clarity, not every feature of the wall barrier ofFIG.23Ais indicated with reference numbers inFIGS.23B-D. As indicated inFIG.23, a wall barrier2300is shown including a frame2301around the perimeter of the wall barrier2300, a coupling channel2306, multiple elongated members (of which elongated member2302is a representative elongated member) extending across the wall barrier2300, a mount2303coupled to the frame1001and to the upper floor, and a motor2304coupled to the mount2303. The mount2303is configured to allow the wall barrier2300to rotate about the mount2303and a side2305of the frame2301. The frame2301and the elongated members2302can be made from any suitable material that is sufficiently sturdy and strong enough to resist the lateral force from someone falling against it. Example materials may include, but are not limited to, metals, metal alloys, such as aluminum, stainless steel, galvanized steel, wrought iron, tempered glass, etc.

InFIGS.23A,23B, and23C, the wall barrier2300and the staircase100are shown installed within a room2310. The room has a wall2311with an entry2307to the staircase100. Flooring surfaces2800,2801are shown for the upper and lower floors, respectively. Although not shown inFIGS.23A-C, a door can be implemented within wall2311to allow entry into the room2310and the staircase100. In an embodiment, the motor2304can be positioned within the nearby wall2311and provide power to a belt and pulley drive system to rotate the wall barrier2300. In another embodiment, the motor2304can be positioned below the upper floor close to the wall2311of the room2310and provide power to a direct drive system to rotate the wall barrier2300. The motor2304is configured to rotate the frame2301about the mount2303which can pivot. In this way, the side2305of the frame2301can remain close to the wall2311while the frame2301rotates between states. The portion of the wall2311where the wall barrier2300is installed is shown see-through for clarity and to facilitate understanding. In the state shown inFIG.23B, the frame2301is positioned back toward the wall2311(e.g., against or within the wall2311). In the state shown inFIG.23C, the frame2301is rotated to extend out from the wall2311(as represented by the dotted arrow) so that the coupling channel2306(e.g., a u-shaped channel) of the wall barrier2300aligns with the landing barrier103. In this way, when the landing barrier103is raised up the column101, the landing barrier103will enter and move within the channel2306. The coupling channel2306can include a flared opening to facilitate the landing barrier103to enter the coupling channel2306. In the state shown inFIG.23C, the landing barrier103is raised all the way up the column101and coupled to the wall barrier2300. The wall barrier2300prevents user from going the incorrect way around the landing barrier103into the staircase100. Since the landing barrier103is coupled within the coupling channel2306, the wall barrier2300and the landing barrier103form a safety barrier that ensures users enter to the proper side of the landing barrier103.

In another embodiment, such as if the room2310may not include a door within the entry2307, the wall barrier2300can be configured to be fixed in the position shown inFIGS.23C and23D. In such case, for example, the motor2304is not necessary and the wall barrier2300is fixed in place. In yet another embodiment, such as where the staircase100is not sufficiently enclosed within the four walls to form a safety barrier around the staircase, the perimeter base112can be configured to include a safety barrier around its perimeter (except for the entry2307) to prevent users from falling through the passageway of the stairway when in the opened state. The safety barrier can include, for instance, balusters that extend from the perimeter base112all the way around the perimeter base112except for at the entry2307, and a hand railing that is coupled to the top of the balusters. The wall barrier2300can optionally be included depending on the layout of the room. The landing barrier103can still be included and operate as previously described with or without the wall barrier2300implemented. In another embodiment, the landing barrier103can be fixed in the closed state position. In such case, the linear actuator123can be programmed to maintain the landing barrier103in the closed state position at all times and in all states. Alternatively, the linear actuator123can be excluded from the stairway and instead a stop element (e.g., similar to stop element702) can be coupled to the linear guide106in which the landing barrier103is attached. The stop element can be positioned at the corresponding position to stop and support the landing barrier103in the closed state position. Furthermore, as the landing barrier is maintained in the closed state position, the latch actuator114and the latches115can be configured with separate motors to switch a latching mechanism (e.g., solenoid or mechanical coupling element) between latched and unlatched states. In such case, the latch triggering member1004and the cable2009are unnecessary and not implemented.

In an embodiment, a sensor system can be installed along the upper and lower floors as a safety feature to detect if someone enters the area of the staircase when the staircase is transitioning between states. Any suitable sensor system to detect when the presence of a person, animal, object, etc. can be implemented. Example sensor systems can include, but are not limited to, light sensors, motion sensors, and pressure sensors, including light curtains, safety mats, etc.FIG.24illustrates a perspective view of exemplary sensor systems, according to an embodiment. InFIG.24, the staircase100is shown including the column101, the landing barrier103, and the optional wall barrier2300. In the embodiment shown, the staircase100also includes upper and lower light curtains2401,2402. The upper and lower light curtains2401,2402shown includes emitters2403,2404and receivers2405,2406, respectively. The emitters2403,2404can include, for example, an array of light emitters that are directed toward the receivers2405,2406. The emitters2403,2404and receivers2405,2406can be positioned on the respective upper and lower floors to cover an area including the staircase100(e.g., the area defined by the cross section of the staircase100) and any additional surrounding area if desired. For example, in the embodiment shown, the lower light curtain2402can be configured to cover a greater surrounding area than the upper light curtain2401since the staircase100is not enclosed within a room on the lower floor.

FIG.25illustrates a functional block diagram of an exemplary operations and control system, according to an embodiment. It should be appreciated that whileFIG.25illustrates various functional components of the operations and control system, it is not intended to represent any particular architecture or manner of interconnecting the components. It is also be appreciated that not every component of the operations and control system is shown or described for the functional block diagram, and that one or more components of the operations and control system can be combined in various implementations. InFIG.25, an operations and control system2500is shown in including a computer system2501communicatively coupled to a wall barrier control system2502, a sensor control system2503, a landing barrier control system2504, a lifting platform control system2505, and a user device control system2605. The computer system2501can be programmed to manage the wall barrier control system2502, the sensor control system2503, the landing barrier control system2504, the lifting platform control system2505, and the user device control system2506. The computer system2501can include, for example, control board having a system bus coupled to a microprocessor, a Read-Only Memory (ROM), a volatile Random Access Memory (RAM), as well as other nonvolatile memory. The system bus can be adapted to interconnect these various components together and also used to communicate with the wall barrier control system2502, the sensor control system2503, the landing barrier control system2504, the lifting platform control system2506, and the user device control system2606. Each of the wall barrier control system2502, the sensor control system2503, the landing barrier control system2504, the lifting platform control system2505, and the user device control system2605can include a separate controller (or other processing component) and electrical, mechanical, and optical components (e.g., memory, power electronics, I/O devices, analog and digital components, etc.) to perform the operations specific to its corresponding system. For example, the wall barrier control system2502can include a controller, the wall barrier2300, the motor2304, and various electrical components (e.g., motor driving circuitry, feedback sensors, amplifiers, power electronics, etc.) for controlling the motor2304and the movement of the wall barrier2300as programmed and described herein. The sensor control system2503can include a controller, the upper and lower sensors2401,2402, and various electrical components (e.g., power electronics, etc.) for monitoring the sensor system (e.g., the upper and lower light curtains2401,2402) and initiating responses to detected events (e.g., movement within the area of the sensors an inappropriate times) as programmed and described herein. The landing barrier control system2504can include a controller, the landing barrier103, the linear actuator123, the motor129, and various electrical components (e.g., motor driving circuitry, feedback sensors, amplifiers, etc.) for controlling the linear actuator123and the movement of the landing barrier103. The lifting platform control system2505can include a controller, lifting platform107, linear actuator122, motor and drive system1901, and various electrical components (e.g., motor driving circuitry, feedback sensors, amplifiers, etc.) for controlling the linear actuator122and the movement of the lifting platform107and the steps102as programmed and described herein. The user device control system2606can include a user device having a controller, a display, and various electrical components to provide a user interface for the user to control the operation of the staircase100. For example, the user device control system2606can include one or more touchscreen displays or other user devices (e.g., a mechanical switch, button, lever, keyboard, etc.) that enables the user to control and monitor various features and functions of the operations and control system2500, such as activation of the staircase to move between the various states (e.g., the closed and opened states), entry of passwords or codes to operate the staircase, initiation of emergency shutdown procedures, status checks on the control systems2502,2503,2504,2505, and2506, etc. In one implementation, more than one user device can be implemented, such as one user device on each floor to enable user control from either floor. The computer system2501can be programmed to receive the user commands or events (e.g., initiating a transition of the staircase100) from the user device, and respond accordingly by communicating the appropriate control signals to one or more of the wall barrier control system2502, the sensor control system2503, the landing barrier control system2504, and the lifting platform control system2505. In an embodiment, the staircase100can transition automatically (e.g., automatically cascade) from the closed state to the open state, and vice versa, in response to a single user command or event initiated by the user. In some implementations, the stairway100can be configured to transition to some or all of the states described herein via corresponding user commands or events.

In use, the staircase100is configured to move between various states, including the closed state and the opened state, as desired or needed.FIGS.26-31illustrate the staircase100in various states, according to an embodiment.FIGS.26-31are described here together. References to one or more previously described figures (orFIGS.1through25) may also be provided to facilitate understanding. For example, references toFIGS.23B-Dmay be provided to illustrate the wall barrier2300during various states of the staircase100. It should be appreciated that while specific features of the staircase100(e.g., the wall barrier2300) may not be shown in every figure, the underlying principles of the specific features can still be applicable in varying embodiments where the feature is present. It should also be appreciated that the description of the procedure for moving the staircase100between states is exemplary, and that other variations of the procedure are possible without compromising the underlying principles of the present disclosure. For example, some operations can be performed sequentially or in parallel.

InFIGS.1A and23B, the staircase100is shown in a closed state. In the closed state, all of the steps102are at the upper end116of the column101. The perimeter base112is securely fixed in the upper floor with the top surface2001coplanar with the flooring surface of the upper floor. In the closed state of the staircase100, the perimeter base112is oriented around the outer perimeter of the steps102with the top surface2001coplanar with the tread surfaces802of the plurality of steps102. In this way, the staircase100can serve as part of the flooring surface of the upper floor. The elongated members113(e.g., rods) are coupled to the perimeter base112and extend from the perimeter base112, through the holes804in the outer perimeter of the steps102, and toward the lower end117of the column101. The landing barrier103is positioned below the upper floor with the top of the landing barrier103approximately flush with the top surface2001of the perimeter base112, the tread surfaces102, and the flooring surface of the upper floor. The landing barrier103is moved to, and maintained in, the closed state by the linear actuator123. To position the landing barrier103in the closed state position, the linear actuator123is activated to lower the lifting platform107toward the lower end117of the column101until the top of the landing barrier103is approximately flush with the top surface of2001of the perimeter base112. In an embodiment, the computer system2501and the landing barrier control system2504can be programmed to activate the linear actuator123to lower the landing barrier103to the closed state position in response to a user command or event via the user device.

The steps102are held in the closed state by the lifting platform107, which is contacting the gusset805of the steps102. To position the steps102in the closed state position, the linear actuator122is activated to raise the lifting platform107toward the upper end116of the column101enough for the latching members of the latch actuator114and the latches115to latch. Since all of the steps102are positioned above the lifting platform107, the lifting platform107raises and maintains the steps102into the closed state position. For example, in an embodiment, the computer system2501and the lifting platform control system2505can be programmed to activate the linear actuator122to raise and maintain the steps102in the closed state position. The steps102are further secured in the closed state position by the latch actuator114and the latches115. The steps102are positioned above, and contacting, the contact surfaces2108,2208of the respective latching members2103,2203. In this way, the latches securely latch the steps102in the closed state position and also provide support to the outer perimeter of the steps102.FIG.26illustrates a close-up portion of a front view cross section of the staircase100ofFIG.1Awhen the staircase is in the closed state, according to an embodiment. InFIG.26, a close-up portion of the cross section of the staircase100is shown and represented by dotted boxes2600. As shown in the portion2600, the steps102are maintained by the lifting platform107to a position (or height) near the upper end116of the column101where the tread surfaces802are coplanar with the top surface2001of the perimeter base112. The steps102are shown latched in the closed state position by the latching members2203, which are below and abutting the outer perimeters of the steps102for support. The latching member2103of the latch actuator114, although not shown in portion2600ofFIG.26, is also positioned below and abutting the corresponding initial and final steps102.

For embodiments where the wall barrier2300is implemented, the wall barrier2300is positioned back toward the nearby wall2311(e.g., flush against the wall), such as shown inFIG.23B. For example, the wall barrier2300can be rotated back against or within the wall2311. To position the wall barrier2300into the closed state position, the motor2304can be activated to rotate the wall barrier2300toward the wall2311and maintain it there during the closed state. For example, in an embodiment, the computer system2501and the wall barrier control system2502can be programmed to activate the motor2304to rotate the wall barrier2300to the closed state position.

To transition the staircase100to the opened state, a user can initiate the process by executing a corresponding user command or event (e.g., depressing of a button, switch, lever, etc. on a user interface or mechanical device) via the user device (e.g., touchscreen display, mechanical switch, button, lever, etc.) described for the user device control system2506. Once the transition to the opened state is initiated by the user, the linear actuator122is activated to move the lifting platform107(via the traveling member124) toward the upper end116of the column101so that the steps102are raised off of the latching members2103,2203of the respective latch actuator114and latches115. In an embodiment, the computer system2501and the lifting platform control system2505can be programmed to activate the linear actuator122to raise the steps102off of the latching members2103,2203in response to the user command or event.FIG.27illustrates a close-up portion of a front view cross section of the staircase100ofFIG.1Awhen in a state where the steps102are raised off of the latching members of the latch actuator and the latches, according to an embodiment. InFIG.27, a close-up portion of the cross section of the staircase100is shown and represented by dotted boxes2700. As shown in portion2700, the lifting platform107has been raised (represented by dotted arrows) by the linear actuator122(not shown inFIG.27) so that the steps102are raised off of the latching members2103,2203. The distance the steps102are raised can vary but should be large enough to create adequate space for the latching members2203(and2101) to retract into the unlatched position. Example distances that the steps can be raised to clear the latches can include, but are not limited to, distances within the range of 0.125 inches to 1.5 inches, such as 0.5 inches to 1 inch, including approximately 0.75 inches in one implementation. In this state, the steps102are slightly higher than the flooring surface of the upper floor. As the steps102are raised to this state from the closed position, the elongated members113slide through the holes804of the steps102. In an embodiment, the holes804are oblong so that the elongated members can stay fixed while the steps102move up and down.

For embodiments where the wall barrier2300is implemented, in response to the user command or event to transition to the opened state, the wall barrier2300is configured to rotate toward alignment with the landing barrier103and the center of the column101, such as shown inFIG.23C. For example, the motor2304can be activated to rotate the wall barrier2300away from the wall2311until it is aligned with the landing barrier103and then maintain it in that position while the steps102are raised from the closed state. In an embodiment, the computer system2501and the wall barrier control system2502can be programmed to activate the motor2304to rotate the wall barrier2300to alignment with the landing barrier103in response to the user command or event. The timing of when the wall barrier2300is rotated in alignment with the landing barrier103can vary in different implementations—e.g., simultaneous to, before, or after the raising of the steps102off of the latching members2103,2203.

In response to the user command or event to transition to the opened state, the landing barrier103can be configured to raise above the flooring surface of the upper floor.FIG.28illustrates a front view cross section of the staircase100ofFIG.1Awhen in a state where the landing barrier is being raised above the flooring surface of the upper floor, according to an embodiment. InFIG.28, the landing barrier103of the staircase100is raised above the upper floor, as represented by the dotted arrow. The flooring surfaces of the upper floor and the lower floor are represented by dotted lines2800and2801, respectively. To raise the landing barrier103, the linear actuator123is activated to move traveling member127toward the upper end116of the column101. The landing barrier103is raised above the flooring surface2800to serve as a safety barrier for entry into the staircase100from the upper floor. InFIG.28, the tread surfaces802are shown raised slightly above the flooring surface to allow the latching members2103,2203to retract. The timing of when the landing barrier103is raised can vary in different implementations (e.g., simultaneous to, before, or after the raising of the steps102off of the latching members2103,2203), but should not be so early as to cause the landing barrier103to trigger the unlatching of the latching members2103,2203before the steps102have been raised enough to create adequate space for the latching members2103,2203to retract. For embodiments where the wall barrier2300is implemented, the wall barrier2300should be rotated in alignment with the landing barrier103before the landing barrier103is raised so that the landing barrier103can enter the coupling channel2306of the wall barrier2300.

The landing barrier103is raised until the latch triggering member1004on the landing barrier103contacts and fully engages the latch actuator114to unlatch the latching members2103,2203. In an embodiment, the computer system2501and the landing barrier control system2504can be programmed to raise the landing barrier103until the latch triggering member1004on the landing barrier103contacts and fully engages the latch actuator114. The height (or distance) in which the landing barrier103raises out of the floor can vary in different embodiments and can depend on various factors, such as height of the landing barrier, height of the ceiling in the upper floor, desired height, safety standards and regulations, etc. Example heights in which the landing barrier103raises can include, but is not limited to, heights in the range of 30 inches to 84 inches from the flooring surface of the upper floor, such as 36 inches to 50 inches. In one implementation, the height in which the landing barrier103raises is approximately 42 inches.

FIG.29illustrates a close-up portion of a front view cross section of the staircase100ofFIG.1Awhen in a state where the latch triggering member1004is fully engaged with the latch actuator114, according to an embodiment. InFIG.29, a close-up portion of the cross section of the staircase100is shown and represented by dotted boxes2900. As shown in portion2900, the latch triggering member1004is contacting the latch actuator114that is coupled to the perimeter base112. The spring plunger1202has contacted and pushed the trigger plate2104on the latch actuator114so that the latching members2103(not shown inFIG.29) on the latch actuator114are retracted and unlatched, as previously described forFIGS.21A and21B. Furthermore, the pulley1203has contacted and pulled the cable2109(not shown inFIG.29) up between the pulleys2102to retract and unlatch the latching members2203(not shown inFIG.29) on the latches115, as previously described forFIG.22. As shown inFIG.29, the steps102are still raised to provide space for the latching members2103,2203to retract. In this state, the landing barrier103is fully raised and extending into the upper floor to serve as a safety barrier. In the embodiment shown, a portion of the landing barrier103with the plate1005remains below the perimeter base112and can increase stiffness and support to the landing barrier103.

For embodiments where the wall barrier2300is implemented, when the landing barrier103is raised up the column101, the landing barrier103enters and moves within the coupling channel2306on the wall barrier2300. With the landing barrier103coupled within the coupling channel2306, the wall barrier2300and the landing barrier103can form a safety barrier that ensures users enter the staircase100to the proper side of the landing barrier103.

Once the latching members2103,2203have been retracted and unlatched, the linear actuator122is activated to move the lifting platform107down the column101(or toward the lower end117of the column101) so that the steps102begin to lower down the column101. As the steps102are lowered, the elongated members113slide through the holes804of the steps102. The steps102will be lowered down the column until each of the steps102are stopped by the hard stop130on their corresponding linear guide106in which they are coupled. In an embodiment, the computer system2501and the lifting platform control system2505can be programmed to activate the linear actuator122to lower the steps102down the column101.FIG.30illustrates a portion of a front view of the staircase100ofFIG.1Awhen in a state where the steps102are starting to lower down the column101after the latch actuator114and the latches115are unlatched to transition from the closed state to the opened state, according to an embodiment. InFIG.30, the steps102are shown lowered partially down the column101by the lifting platform107. All of the steps102are lowered down the column101together with each steps102being lowered down the linear guide106in which it is coupled. As the steps102are lowered down the column101, each step102will eventually contact, and be stopped by, one the hard stops130coupled to outside of the linear guides106, as shown inFIG.31. In this way, the steps102cascade down the column101from the closed state position to the open state position. The hard stops130are positioned on the linear guides106at varying distances from the upper end116of the column101so as to form spiraling steps around the column101between the upper floor and the lower floor. The length of the elongated members113are such that the stop elements2004positioned at the distal end of the elongated members113allow the steps102to reach their respective hard stop130but also prevent the elongated members113from being removed from the holes804in the steps102. Furthermore, the length of the elongated members113can be set so that the stop elements2004abut the outer perimeter of the steps102when the steps1021are stopped by the hard stops130. In this way, the stop elements2004and the elongated members113can provide additional support to the outer perimeter of the steps102.FIG.31illustrates a perspective view of the staircase100ofFIGS.1A and1Bwhen in a state where a portion of the steps102have been limited by the hard stops130on the column101, according to an embodiment. InFIG.31, the steps102of the staircase100are being lowered down the column101, as represented by the dotted arrow. A portion of the steps102(indicated by reference numeral102c) is limited along the column101by the hard stops130on the linear guides106. Another portion of the steps102(indicated by reference numeral102d) is still being lowered down the column101together by the lifting platform107as they have not yet contacted the hard stops130on their corresponding linear guides106. The initial step2030is included in the portion102cand is shown as the first step that is limited by one of the hard stops130. The initial step2030is limited at a position where the tread surface802is aligned with (or at the approximate height as) the bottom of the landing barrier103. The final step2031is included in the portion102dand shown as the last step that will be limited by one of the hard stops130.

When the final step2031has been limited along the column101by one of the hard stops130, the staircase100is in the opened state. In this state, steps102form spiraling steps around the column101between the upper floor and the lower floor, as shown inFIGS.1B and23D. The stop elements2004of the elongated members113can abut the outer perimeter of the steps102and provide additional support to the outer perimeter of the steps102. The landing barrier103(and the wall barrier2300if implemented, such as inFIG.23D) serves as a safety barrier to facilitate proper entry into the staircase100from the upper floor. It should be appreciated that in embodiments without the wall barrier2300implemented, additional railings can be installed (e.g., around the perimeter base) based on the design of the upper floor to prevent anybody improperly entering the staircase100and falling through the perimeter base112.

When a user wants the staircase100to return to the closed state, the user can initiate the closing of the staircase100by executing a corresponding user command or event via the user device (e.g., touchscreen display, switch, button, lever, etc.) for the control system2506. Once the transition to the closed state has been initiated by the user, the process described above can be reversed to bring the staircase back into the closed state.

In an embodiment, the staircase100can transition automatically (e.g., automatically cascade) from the closed state to the open state in response to a single user command or event initiated by the user, and vice versa. As previously stated, the sequence in which the staircase100transitions between states (e.g., from the closed state to the opened state, and vice versa) can vary in different embodiments and one or more operations can be performed at various times, such as in parallel. In one embodiment, for example, the staircase100is configured to automatically transition from the closed state to the opened state in response to a corresponding user command or event, as indicated by the following sequence: the steps102are raised from the closed state position to provide space for the latching members to retract on the latch actuator114and the latches115; the wall barrier2300is rotated to align with the landing barrier103; the landing barrier103is raised above the upper floor; the latching members retract on the latch actuator114and the latches115; and, the steps102are lowered by the lifting platform107until they are positioned in the opened state position. The sequence can be reversed when the staircase100automatically transitions from the opened state to the closed state in response to a corresponding user command or event.

In embodiments of the staircase100where a sensor system is implemented (e.g., the staircase100ofFIG.24including the upper and lower light curtains2401,2402), if someone enters the area of the staircase when the staircase is transitioning between the closed and opened states, the staircase100can be configured to stop any movement until the area is cleared. In some instances, the staircase100can be configured to perform another suitable safety procedure if someone enters the area of the staircase when the staircase is transitioning. For example, if the staircase is transitioning from the closed state to the opened state and someone is detected in the area monitored by the lower light curtain2402, the staircase100can be programmed to return to the closed state. As another example, the staircase100may be programmed to prevent the staircase100from initiating any transition (e.g., from the closed state to the opened state, or vice versa) if someone is detected in an unsafe area or zone being monitored by the sensor system. In an embodiment, the computer system2501and the sensor control system2503can be programmed to monitor the area of the staircase100and perform any safety procedure implemented if necessary.

It should be appreciated that variations of the embodiments described herein may be implemented without compromising the underlying principles of the disclosure. For example, in another embodiment, two or more staircases100can be implemented over three or more floors to create a flight of stairs over more than two floors. As another example, the staircase100can be implemented in another embodiment to work in conjunction with fixed steps on the lower floor. In such case, for instance, the lower floor can include fixed stairs near the lower end117of the column. The fixed stairs can include fixed steps that lead only partially up toward the upper floor. In such case, that the steps102of the staircase100can be configured to lower down the column101until the fixed steps are reached. In this way, the fixed steps and the steps102(when in the opened state) together provide the necessary steps for users to go between the upper and lower floors.

Throughout the foregoing description, and for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the described techniques. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that these techniques can be practiced without some of these specific details. Although various embodiments that incorporate these teachings have been shown and described in detail, those skilled in the art could readily devise many other varied embodiments or mechanisms to incorporate these techniques. Also, embodiments can include various operations as set forth above, fewer operations, or more operations, or operations in another order. Accordingly, the scope and spirit of the invention should only be judged in terms of any accompanying claims that may be appended, as well as any legal equivalents thereof.

Reference throughout the specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” is used to mean that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, the appearance of the expressions “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or several embodiments. Although the present invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to the specific form set forth herein. Rather, embodiments other than those specific described above are equally possible within the scope of any accompanying claims. Moreover, it should be appreciated that the terms “comprise/comprises” or “include/includes”, as used herein, do not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Furthermore, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may possibly advantageously be combined, and the inclusion of different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and/or advantageous. In addition, singular references do not exclude a plurality. Finally, reference signs in the claims are provided merely as a clarifying example and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims in any way.