CAM LOCKING SYSTEMS AND METHODS

A system and a method include a cam locking assembly including a support rod having a rod body that extends along an axis, a first rail component having a rail body that extends along the axis and coupled with the support rod and a third rail component, a cam having an interior passage extending along the axis that receives a portion of the support rod and an exterior surface having plural recesses, and guide pins that extend into the plural recesses of the cam and control movement of the cam. Movement of the cam controls movement of the third rail component between a loaded position and an unloaded position.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

Examples of the present disclosure generally relate to cam locking systems and methods for controlling movement of safety rail systems, manufacturers, and operators.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Elevated platforms may be used by operators to access elevated portions of a structure, such as to allow the operators to perform inspections and/or maintenance to the structure. The elevated platforms may include railings that allow the operators to safely stand on top of and move around on the elevated platforms. In some applications, the elevated platforms may be coupled with a support structure that may be moved to different locations to allow the operators to access different parts of the structure.

As one example, the structure may be an aircraft, and the elevated platform may first need to be disposed at a front or forward portion of the aircraft to allow the operators to inspect a propeller of the aircraft. After the inspection of the propeller is complete, the elevated platform may need to be moved, such as toward a rear portion of the aircraft. In order to move the platform, the safety railings may need to be lowered so as to avoid interfering with the wing of the aircraft while the platform is moved. As another example, the safety railings may need to be lowered to allow the aircraft to move past the platform without collision. However, the safety railings may be designed to be lowered manually, such as by an operator standing on the elevated platform. As a result, the operator may be have an increased fall risk while lowering the guard rail while being on the elevated platform and the operator may be left on top of the elevated platform with no safety railings in place, etc., thereby placing the operator is significant danger of falling from the elevated platform and causing bodily injury.

As another example, the safety railings may be raised and/or lowered based on an environment in which the operator is working. For example, the operator may be positioned on a platform that may extend, extend next to, or be disposed proximate to flaps of the aircraft, landing gear of the aircraft, or the like, that may produce and/or create hazardous energy based on whether the areas of the aircraft are operating or functioning. For example, the hazardous energy may include electrical energy, pneumatic energy, hydraulic systems, mechanical energy, and/or gravitational energy sources. The safety railings may be moved into a loaded position to improve the safety of the operator working in close proximity to the hazardous energy, or may be moved into an unloaded position while the environment is no longer generating hazardous energy.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A need exists for a system and method for raising and/or lowering safety rail components while an operator is not positioned on an elevated platform. Further, a need exists for a system and method that improves the safety of raising and/or lowering safety rail components relative to the elevated platform.

With those needs in mind, certain examples of the present disclosure provide a cam locking assembly of a rail support system that includes a support rod that has a body that extends along an axis, a first rail component having a first rail body that extends along the axis and is coupled with the support rod and a third rail component, a cam that is coupled with the support rod and has plural recesses extending into an exterior surface of the cam, and one or more guide pins that extend into the recesses of the cam and control movement of the cam. Movement of the cam may control movement of the third rail component between a loaded position and an unloaded position. In one or more examples, the loaded position may be referred to as a locked position, and the unloaded position may be referred to as an unlocked position.

In one or more embodiments, the first rail component, the support rod, and the cam may be concentric with each other about the axis. In at least one example, the cam may move in a first linear direction to move the third rail component into the loaded position, or the cam may move in a second linear direction to move the third rail component into the unloaded position.

In at least one example, the plural recesses of the cam may include one or more locked position recesses and one or more travel path recesses. The guide pins may move along the travel path recess(s) toward and away from the locked position recess(es). In one embodiment, the cam may be prohibited from rotating responsive to the guide pins being disposed in the locked position recess. The locked position recess may be referred to as a safety lock position or a safety lock. The cam may be allowed to move out of the safety lock position by an operator standing on a ground surface moving a portion of the rail assembly. Alternatively, the cam may be allowed to rotate about the axis responsive to the guide pins being disposed in the travel path recess. For example, while the guide pins are disposed in the travel path recess and are not in the locked position recess, the cam may be allowed to move in one or more directions (rotationally, linearly, etc.).

In at least one example, a mounting bracket may include a passage that receives at least a portion of the support rod and/or a portion of the first rail component. The mounting bracket may be coupled with a support structure of the elevated platform. Optionally, the guide pins may be coupled with the mounting bracket, and the cam may move in a rotational direction and linear directions relative to the guide pins and the mounting bracket.

In at least one example, one or more magnetics or magnetic devices may be coupled with the cam locking assembly and may be arranged to encourage movement of the cam in one or more directions. For example, the assembly may include a first magnetic device that is coupled with the mounting bracket or the guide pins, and a second magnetic device that is coupled with the cam, and the first and second magnetic may be arrangement to move toward or away from each other to encourage movement of the cam.

In one or more embodiments, movement of the cam may be activated by an operator. Additionally or alternatively, movement of the cam may be activated by one or more motors, such as a linear motor operably coupled with the cam locking assembly and arranged to move the cam in the first and/or second linear directions.

Certain examples of the present disclosure provide a safety rail support system that may be operably coupled with an elevated platform that includes a first cam locking assembly and a second cam locking assembly. The first cam locking assembly may include a first cam having first recesses configured to receive a first set of guide pins, and the second cam locking assembly may include a second cam having second recesses configured to receive a second set of guide pins. Movement of the first cam and movement of the second cam may control movement of a third rail component between a loaded position and an unloaded position. The third rail component in the loaded position may block access onto or off of the elevated platform, or the third rail component in the unloaded position may allow access onto or off of the elevated platform.

Certain examples of the present disclosure provide a method that includes moving a third rail component of a cam locking assembly into a loaded position, and moving the third rail component into an unloaded position. In the loaded position, the third rail component blocks access onto or off of an elevated platform. In the unloaded position, the third rail component allows access onto or off of the elevated platform.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

In at least one example, cam locking systems and methods include rail components that move between loaded positions and unloaded positions. Examples of the subject disclosure provide systems and methods that allow for an operator disposed on a ground surface to move the rail components coupled with an elevated platform between the loaded and unloaded positions. For example, the operator does not need to be standing on the elevated platform to move the rail components between the loaded and unloaded positions. The systems and methods of the subject matter disclosed effectively provide improved safety for the operator to move the rail components between the loaded positions and the unloaded positions.

FIG.1illustrates a schematic of a safety rail support system100that is operably coupled with a support structure126of an elevated platform102, according to an example of the present disclosure.FIG.2illustrates a schematic of the safety rail support system100shown inFIG.1. It is to be understood that the safety rail support system100and/or the support structure126can be sized, shaped, and configured differently than shown inFIGS.1and2.

The support structure126maintains a position of the elevated platform102a predetermined distance away from or above a surface108, such as a ground or floor. The distance may be about 1 meter, about 3 meters, about 5 meters, about 10 meters, or the like. The elevated platform may be an elevated surface on which an operator may stand to access, repair, inspect, or the like, an elevated component. For example, the elevated surface may allow one or more operators111,113to access a portion of an airplane, such as a wing, a fuselage, a stabilizer, or the like. In one example, the support structure and the elevated platform may be moved from a first location to a second location. For example, the support structure may include wheels that may allow the platform to be moved to different locations about an airplane. While the subject matter described herein may be associated with aircraft and aerial vehicles, the elevated platform and the safety rail support system may be used on other non-aerial vehicle, on other mechanical systems, on other non-mechanical systems, in buildings, in exterior or outdoor applications, or the like.

The safety rail support system100may move in a linear direction128between an unloaded position104, shown inFIG.1, and a loaded position106, shown inFIG.2. For example, the elevated platform may need to be moved between a first portion of the fuselage of an aircraft to a second portion of the fuselage of the aircraft. The rail support system may need to be moved from the loaded position to the unloaded position in order to prevent the safety rail support system from colliding with the wing of the aircraft while the support structure is moving. As another example, the rail support system may be used to separate one of the operators from a hazardous area, such as a portion of an aircraft that has hydraulic systems, electric energy, pneumatic systems, or the like. The operators may be standing on the elevated platform, may be standing on the ground surface, or the like. The rail support system may move between the loaded and unloaded positions based on the environment in which the rail support system is disposed. While the rail support system is in the loaded position, railing components of the rail support system may be disposed between the operator(s) and the hazardous energy. Alternatively, while the rail support system is in the unloaded position, the railing components may not be disposed between the operator(s) and the hazardous energy.

In the illustrated embodiments ofFIGS.1and2, while the safety rail support system is in the unloaded position, the safety rail support system is disposed closer to the surface108(e.g., in a retracted state). While the safety rail support system is in the loaded position, the safety rail support system is disposed away from the surface108(e.g., in an extended state). In the illustrated embodiment, the safety rail support system moves in a substantially vertical direction towards and away from the ground surface. Alternatively, the system may be arranged such that the system moves in a substantially horizontal direction, or any radial direction relative to the ground surface. For example, the safety rail support system may be associated with a railing that extends along a set of stairs, such as stairs to access the elevated platform.

While the safety rail support system is in the unloaded position, a first operator111may be prohibited from standing on the elevated surface102, as shown inFIG.1. Additionally, while the safety rail support system is in the unloaded position, a second operator113that is positioned on the elevated surface may have an increased risk of falling and injury relative to the first operator111. Alternatively, while the safety rail support system100is in the loaded position, the operator111may be permitted to stand on the elevated surface102, as shown inFIG.2. For example, the safety rail support system in the loaded position106blocks access onto or off of the elevated platform102, such as to reduce a probability of the operator111falling off of the elevated platform. Alternatively, the safety rail support system in the unloaded position104allows access onto and/or off of the elevated platform, such as to increase the probability of the operator falling off of the elevated platform.

In one or more examples, the safety rail support system may be assembled with the support structure of the elevated platform at the general time at which the support structure is assembled. In another example, the safety rail support system may be added to or coupled with the support structure after the support structure is erected. For example, the safety rail support system may be retrofitted with the support structure of the elevated platform.

In one or more examples, the safety rail support system may be referred to as a cam locking system. For example, the cam locking system may include rail components that may move between loaded (e.g., locked) and unloaded (e.g., unlocked) positions. While the cam locking system is in the loaded position, movement of operators, equipment, etc., may be controlled. Alternatively, while the cam locking system is in the unloaded position, operators, equipment, etc. may be free to move (e.g., movement may not be controlled or otherwise limited).

FIG.3illustrates a front view of the safety rail support system100shown inFIGS.1and2, according to an example of the present disclosure.FIG.4illustrates a partially transparent front view of a first rail support assembly110.FIG.5illustrates a perspective view of a first support rod116of the first rail support assembly110, according to one example of the present disclosure.FIG.6illustrates a perspective view of a first cam118of the first rail support assembly110.FIG.7illustrates a cross-sectional front view of the first rail support assembly110.FIG.8illustrates an exploded view of a guide pin assembly125A.FIGS.3-8will be discussed together herein.

The system includes a first rail component112that has a first rail body that extends along a first axis114, a second rail component152that has a second rail body that extends along a second axis154that is substantially parallel with the first axis114, and a third rail component170that has a third rail body that extends along a third axis176that is substantially perpendicular to the first and second axes. In one or more examples, the rail components of the safety rail support system may have alternative labels. For example, the safety rail support system may include one or more horizontally-extending rail components, and one or more vertically-extending rail components. In another example, the safety rail support system may include one or more rail components that extend radially relative to the elevated surface102and/or the surface108. The labels “first”, “second”, and “third” are arbitrary labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. The third rail body of the third rail component extends between a first end172and a second end174along the third axis176. The first rail body of the first rail component extends between a third end120and a fourth end122along the first axis114. The fourth end122of the first rail component is operably coupled with the first end172of the third rail component. The second rail body of the second rail component extends between a seventh end160and an eighth end162along the second axis154. The eighth end162of the second rail component is operably coupled with the second end174of the third rail component. In the illustrated embodiment, the first, second, and third components are coupled together in a U-shape arrangement of the first, second, and third rail components. The first, second, and third rail components may be coupled together via any typical mechanical coupling method, such as welding, male and female fastener devices, coupling joint components, or the like. In one or more examples, two or more of the rail components may be formed as a single component. For example, the first, second, and third rail components may be a single bar or rod that is formed or bent into the U-shape arrangement. Optionally, the system may include one or more rail components that are arranged in an alternative shape arrangement, such as in a rectangular arrangement, a circular arrangement, or the like.

In one or more examples, the safety rail support system may include a fourth rail component171that is coupled with the first and second rail components and extends parallel with the third rail component170. For example, the third and fourth rail components are horizontally-extending components that may provide additional fall-protection for the operator standing on the elevated surface, for equipment positioned on the elevated surface, or the like.

The rail support system also includes a first rail support assembly110and a second rail support assembly150. The first and second rail support assemblies may also be referred to as first and second cam locking assemblies and/or first and second cam locking systems. In one or more examples, the first rail support assembly110and the second rail support assembly150may be substantially the same, such that the first and second rail support assemblies may include similar components with the similar components having a similar arrangement, etc. For example, the first rail support assembly may include at least a first support rod116and a first cam118that are coupled with the first rail component112, and the second rail support assembly may include at least a second support rod156and a second cam158that are coupled with the second rail component152. In another example, the first rail support assembly may have an arrangement, a configuration, and/or one or more components that differs from the arrangement, the configuration, and/or components of the second rail support assembly. In another example, the rail support system may only include a single cam locking system. In another example, the rail support system may include more than two cam locking systems. In another example, the first cam locking system may work independent of the second cam locking system (e.g., the second rail support assembly). For example, the first cam locking system may be coupled with rail components that are separate from rail components of the second cam locking system. Optionally, the rail support system may have any alternative configuration. The first rail support assembly110will be described in more detail below with regards toFIGS.4-7.

As one example, the safety rail support system100may be coupled with the elevated platform (not shown inFIG.3) via first and second mounting brackets190A,190B. The first mounting bracket190A (shown inFIG.4) may be coupled with a first portion of the elevated platform and may maintain a position of the first rail component112relative to the elevated platform. Additionally, the second mounting bracket190B may be coupled with a second portion of the elevated platform and may maintain a position of the second rail component152relative to the elevated platform. For example, the first and second mounting brackets may allow the first and second rail components to move in linear directions along the first and second axes, respectively. Additionally, the first and second mounting brackets may prohibit rotation and/or control an amount of rotation of the first and second rail components about the first and second axes, respectively.

The first support rod has a first rod body that includes an extension rod140that extends between a first end130and a second end132along the first axis114. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end130extends through a passage133of a mounting component131, and the position of the first end relative to the passage is maintained by a locking mechanism135(e.g., a nut, a bolt, a weld-joint, or the like). The mounting component131includes a first mating surface136, and the second end of the first support rod includes a second mating surface138and a third mating surface144that is opposite the second mating surface. The first and third mating surfaces face the same first direction, and the second mating surfaces faces a second direction toward the first mating surface. The second end of the first support rod116also includes a sleeve146. In the illustrated embodiment, the sleeve146has a substantially circular cross-sectional shape and includes a hollow passage. In alternative embodiments, the sleeve may have an alternative cross-sectional shape. For example, the sleeve may have a cross-sectional shape and/or size that is similar to a cross-sectional shape and/or size of the third end120of the first rail component112. In one example, the sleeve is sized to receive a portion of the first rail component (illustrated inFIG.7). The sleeve also includes plural mating features142that may be used to couple the first support rod with the first rail component via plural rail component fasteners137A-D. For example, the plural rail component fasteners137A-D may extend through the plural mating features142of the sleeve and corresponding passages of the first rail component to couple the first rail component with the first support rod.

The first cam has a first cam body that extends between a first end180and a second end182along the first axis114. The cam includes an interior surface184that extends around the first axis114and defines a first interior passage178of the first cam. The first interior passage may be a passage that extends from the first end to the second end of the cam. For example, the first interior passage may have an opening at the first end of the cam and an opening at the second end of the cam.

The first cam also includes an exterior surface186that includes plural recesses188. The recesses extend from the exterior surface toward the interior surface of the first cam. For example, the recesses may be divots, nooks, indentations, depressions, or the like, that extend into the cam and away from the exterior surface of the cam. For example, the exterior surface of the cam may have a first cross-sectional size, and the cam at one of the recesses may have a second cross-sectional size that is smaller than the first cross-sectional size. In one example, the recesses may be shaped and sized to receive at least a portion of the guide pins134A,134B (illustrated inFIG.7). The guide pins may extend into the recesses of the cam and may control movement of the cam.

The mounting bracket includes a plate portion194that mates with a portion of the support structure of the elevated platform. The plate portion also includes plural coupling features196A,196B,196C,196D that may be used to couple the mounting bracket with the support structure (not shown). In the illustrated example, the coupling features are holes that may be used to receive bolts, screws, rivets, or the like. Optionally, the mounting bracket may be coupled with the support structure by an alternative coupling method.

The first mounting bracket190A also includes a sleeve portion192that is coupled with the plate portion. The sleeve portion192includes one or more surfaces that define a hollow passage that is open to and extends along the first axis114. In the illustrated example shown inFIG.6, a portion of the first support rod is disposed within the sleeve portion of the first mounting bracket. For example, the first support rod is shaped and sized to fit and move within the sleeve portion of the mounting bracket along the first axis114.

In one example, the first mounting bracket190A also includes passages198A,198B with fasteners197A,197B coupled thereto. For example, the fasteners197A,197B may be nuts that may be welded or otherwise mechanically coupled with the passages or sockets of the first mounting bracket. In another example, the fasteners197A,197B may be a threaded machined lug that may receive a corresponding bolt or bolt-like portion of the guide pins.

The first rail support assembly110also includes one or more guide pin assemblies125A,125B. In the illustrated example shown inFIG.4, the first rail support assembly includes one set of two guide pins including a first guide pin134A and a second guide pin134B. The first guide pin134A is coupled with and extends away from one end of the coupling component148A, and the second guide pin134B is coupled with and extends away from one end of the coupling component148B.FIG.8illustrates an exploded view8-8of the guide pin assembly125A. The guide pin assembly includes a coupling component148A that may represent a rivet, a bolt, or the like. The first guide pin134A is disposed at one end of the coupling component. In the illustrated example, the guide pin assembly also includes two washers151and a locking washer153, but optionally the guide pin assembly may include any number of one or more different types of washers, or the like. The washers may be included to maintain a position of the guide pin134A relative to the plural recesses of the cam.

As shown inFIGS.4and7, the guide pin assembly125A may be coupled with the fastener197A and the guide pin assembly125B may be coupled with the fastener197B. Coupling the guide pin assemblies with the fasteners couples the guide pins with the first mounting bracket. The first guide pin134A of the coupling component148A is shaped and sized to extend through the passage198A of the mounting bracket, and the second guide pin134B of the coupling component148B is shaped and sized to extend through the passage198B of the mounting bracket, where the first and second guide pins can extend into plural recesses of the cam.

In another example, the guide pins may be formed as a unitary body with the sleeve portion of the first mounting bracket, and may extend into the hollow passage of the sleeve portion of the first mounting bracket.

In the illustrated example, the extension rod140of the first support rod116(shown inFIG.5) extends within and disposed within the interior passage178of the first cam118(shown inFIG.7). For example, the extension rod has a length between the first mating surface136and the second mating surface138that corresponds to a length of the first cam between the first end180and the second end182of the first cam along the first axis. Additionally, the third end120of the first rail component is operably coupled with the third mating surface144of the first support rod116proximate the second end132of the first support rod.

The first rail component112, the first support rod116, and the first cam118extend along the first axis114. Additionally, the first support rod, the first cam, and the first rail component are substantially concentric with each other about the first axis114. In another example, one of the first rail component, the first support rod, or the first cam may be eccentric with another component of the first rail support assembly. At least a portion of the first rail component, a portion of the first support rod, and a portion of the cam may be disposed within the passage of the first mounting bracket (illustrated inFIG.7), such as while the rail support assembly is in the loaded position. Alternatively, the first support rod and the first cam may be disposed outside of the sleeve portion of the first mounting bracket (not shown), such as while the rail support assembly is in the unloaded position.

In one or more examples, the guide pins134A,134B control movement of the first cam118. For example, as the third rail component moves between the loaded position and the unloaded position, the first cam118rotates about the first axis and moves in a linear direction along the first axis based on the configuration of the recesses of the first cam. The location of the pins within the recesses controls a position and/or movement of the third rail component.

FIG.9illustrates plural front views of the cam shown inFIG.6as the cam rotates about the first axis114, according to an example of the present disclosure. The cam includes plural recesses188, including a first locked position recess202and plural travel path recesses206.FIG.9illustrates the first guide pin134A controlling movement of the first cam. For example, the cam rides on the first guide pin134A that extends into the plural recesses of the cam. Additionally, the second guide pin134B (not shown inFIG.9) also controls movement of the first cam. For example,FIG.9illustrates a front view of the first cam, with the cam moving relative to the first guide pin134A. The cam may also move relative to the second guide pin extending into recesses at a back view of the first cam.

In a first view802, the cam rotates in a rotational direction212(e.g., a counter-clockwise direction), and as the cam rotates in the counter-clockwise direction212, the cam moves in one or both of a first linear direction208or a second linear direction210based on the recesses188of the cam. Optionally, the recesses of the cam may be arranged such that the cam may be rotated in the clockwise direction. In the first view802, the cam may rotate CCW from about 0° to about 45° about the first axis. The rotational movement of the cam causes the cam to move relative to at least one of the guide pins within the recesses from the at least one guide pin being positioned at a point A, to a point B, and to a point C. For example, as the cam rotates about the first axis, the guide pin extending into the recesses causes the cam to move in the first linear direction208while the cam rotates to move the guide pin from point A to point C.

A second view804illustrates the cam rotating CCW from about 45° to about 90° about the first axis, and the cam moves such that the placement of the guide pin within the recesses moves from the point C, to a point D, and to a point E. The point E may referred to as the first locked position recess202. For example, the third rail component (shown inFIG.3) may be in the loaded position while the guide pin is in disposed in the first locked position recess202. While the guide pin is disposed within the first locked position recess, the cam is prohibited from rotating CCW about the first axis. For example, the cam may be prohibited from rotating CCW about the first axis past about 90° responsive to the first guide pin moving into and being disposed within first locked position recess. The position of the third rail component relative to the position of the elevated platform may be relatively unchanged subsequent to the guide pin reaching the first locked position recess.

In one or more examples, in order to move the guide pin out of the first locked position recess, the third rail component may be moved in the first linear direction208until the guide pin moves out of the first locked position recess and back into the travel path recess. For example, a third view806illustrates the cam moving in the first linear direction208to move the guide pin within the recesses from the point E, to a point F, and to a point G while the cam rotates CCW from about 90° to about 135°. For example, moving the rail support assembly including the cam in the first linear direction208moves the guide pin out of the first locked position recess, and allows the cam to continue to rotate about the first axis in the CCW direction.

In one or more examples, in order to move the cam in the first linear direction to move the guide pin out of the first locked position recess, an operator of the safety rail support system may manually move the first rail component in the same first linear direction, may manually move the third rail component in the first linear direction thereby causing the first rail component and the cam to move in the same first linear direction, or the like. The operator may be standing on the ground surface108and may grab onto a portion of the first rail component to move the first rail component, the third rail component, and thereby the cam, to allow the guide pins to move out of the locked position recesses. As another example, the operator may use a tool143(shown inFIG.1) such as, but not limited to, a push rod, a broom stick, an extension rod, or the like, to move the first rail component and thereby causing the guide pin to move out of the first locked position recess.

As another example, the safety rail support assembly may include one or more engagement components (e.g., engagement components124shown inFIGS.1-3). The engagement component(s) may be a feature that may be formed with the third rail component, may be operably coupled with one of the first, second, third, and/or fourth rail component, may be retrofitted onto one or more of the rail components, or the like. For example, the engagement component may be a bracket, a handle, or the like. The engagement component may include one or more features that may receive the tool143(shown inFIG.1), such as an extension rod, or the like. For example, an operator may be standing on the ground surface108and may direct the tool143to engage with a portion of the engagement component124. The operator may push the tool and the third or fourth rail component away from the ground surface108to activate movement of the cam and the safety rail support system. Pushing the tool away from the ground surface causes the guide pin to move out of the first locked position recess of the cam. For example, at least some travel of the cam in the first linear direction208allows the guide pin to move out of the first locked position recess, and the cam to continue to rotate in the CCW direction about the first axis after the tool is released and the safety rail support system moves in the second linear direction210.

In another example, the cam may include one or more other locked position recesses, such as disposed at different locations between the first end180and the second end182of the cam. For example, the guide pins may move into the first locked position recesses202to maintain a position of the third rail component in the loaded position. Additionally, the guide pins may move into the other locked position recesses to maintain a position of the third rail component at a position between the loaded and the unloaded position. For example, the other locked position recesses may be arranged to allow the third rail component to be stepped up and/or down between the loaded and unloaded positions, to hold the third rail component at a dropped or lowered loaded position (e.g., to move the third rail component closer to the elevated platform relative to the loaded position and to a position between the loaded and unloaded positions), or the like. As another example, one of the third or fourth rail components (or another rail component) may interfere with a socket, with the elevated platform, or the like, to limit downward movement of the rail support system.

As another example, the safety rail support system may include, or may be operably coupled with, one or more motors (e.g., linear motors) that may operate to cause the cam to travel in the first linear direction208to allow the guide pin to move out of the first locked position recess. As one example, a first motor may be coupled with the first cam118and a second motor may be coupled with the second cam of the second rail support assembly150(shown inFIG.3). Alternatively, one or more motors may be arranged in some other configuration to control the movement of the safety rail support system.

In another example, the safety rail support system may include one or more magnetics or magnetic devices149(shown inFIG.6). The magnetic devices may encourage movement of the cam. For example, the rail support assembly may include magnetics arranged in various positions relative to the cam to encourage movement of the cam (e.g., toward or away from the first and/or second linear directions208,210, in the CCW direction212, in a clockwise direction, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment ofFIG.6, the magnetic devices are disposed at the second end182of the cam, and are positioned in order to align the cam in a position as seen in the first view802shown inFIG.9. For example, the magnetic devices may encourage the cam to move toward a starting path of the travel path recesses when the cam moves from the unloaded position into the loaded position. In another example, a first magnet may be coupled with the mounting bracket and/or one or more guide pins, and a second magnet may be coupled with the cam. The first and second magnets may be arranged to move toward or away from each other, thereby encouraging movement of the cam relative to the mounting bracket. The magnetic devices may be arranged to encourage the cam to move toward the first locked position recess, to encourage the cam to move out of and/or away from the first locked position recess, to control a speed of rotation of the cam in the CCW direction and/or clockwise direction about the first axis, to control a speed of movement of the cam in the first linear direction and/or the second linear direction, or the like.

Returning toFIG.9, responsive to the guide pin reaching the point G of the travel path recesses, the cam may continue to rotate CCW about the first axis and move in the second linear direction210to move the third rail component toward the unloaded position. For example, while the cam rotates CCW about the axis from about 135° to about 180°, a fourth view808illustrates the cam moving relative to the position of the guide pin such that the guide pin moves within the recesses from the point G, to a point H. and to a point I. Responsive to the guide pin reaching the point I, the cam and the rail support assembly (including the first and third rail components) may continue to move in the second linear direction210and the guide pin may move out of the recesses. For example, the guide pin may disengage with the cam and allow the cam to move in the second linear direction210. In one example, the cam may move in the second linear direction until the rail support system reaches a stop feature, until one or more rail components reaches an interfering feature of the support structure, until the first and/or second rail components reach the ground surface108, or the like.

In one or more examples, to move the third rail component from the unloaded position to the loaded position (shown inFIGS.1and2), the cam may move in the first linear direction208until the guide pin engages with the recesses of the cam. For example, a fifth view810illustrates the guide pin engaging with the cam and extending into the recesses at the point I, and then causing the cam to rotate as the position of the guide pin moves from the point I, to a point J, and to a point K while the cam rotates in the CCW direction from about 180° to about 225°. In the illustrated example, the fifth view810(e.g., about 180° to about 225° about the first axis) is substantially the same as the first view802(e.g., about 0° to about 45° about the first axis) in which the guide pin extends into and engages with the recesses of the cam. For example, the recesses of a first half of a circumference of the cam may be substantially the same as the recesses of a second half of the circumference of the cam. The arrangement of the recesses from about 0° to about 180° about the circumference of the exterior surface of the cam is substantially the same as the arrangement of the recesses from about 180° to about 360° about the circumference of the exterior surface of the cam. For example, the recesses may be arranged about the circumference such that a pattern of the recesses along the first half of the circumference of the cam may be about the same as a pattern of the recesses along the second half of the circumference of the cam. Optionally, the cam may include a pattern of three recesses that are disposed about the circumference of the cam. For example, each of the three recesses may be disposed within about a third of the circumference of the cam.

Additionally, the rail support assembly may include a number guide pins that corresponds to a number of recesses. As one example in which the cam includes two arrangements of recesses, such as an arrangement of recesses from about 0° to about 180° and another arrangement of recesses from about 180° to about 360°, the rail support assembly may include two guide pins to control movement of the cam. In another example in which the cam includes three arrangements of recesses (a first arrangement from about 0° to about 120°, a second arrangement from about 120° to about 240°, and a third arrangement from about 240° to about 360°), the rail support assembly may include three guide pins to control movement of the cam.

Additionally, the cam may include at least two first locked position recesses. For example, the first guide pin134A may be move into one of the first locked position recesses202and the second guide pin134B may move into another of the first locked position recesses (not shown) while the cam rotates from about 90° to about 135°. In another example, the cam may include a number of locked position recesses that corresponds to a number of recess arrangements about the circumference of the cam. In another example, the cam may include a number of locked position recesses that is less than the number of recess arrangements about the circumference of the cam.

In one or more examples, while the cam is unlocked state or unloaded position, the operator may directly or indirectly push the rail components in the first linear direction208(e.g., lift the rail components) away from the ground surface, and subsequently lower the rail components in the second linear direction210until the guide pin(s) are received and locked in the locked position recess. The cam may remain in the locked state until the operator pushes the rail components again in the first linear direction208away from the ground surface to move the guide pins out of the first locked position recesses. Subsequent to the guide pins moving out of the first locked position recesses, the operator may allow the rail components to move in the second linear direction210toward the ground surface toward the unloaded position. In order to lift and lower the rail components, the operator may manually move one of the rail components, the operator may use the tool143to move one of the rail components, the operator may use the tool to engage the engagement component124of the rail system, or the like.

In one or more examples, the safety rail support system may include a secondary lock feature. For example, movement of the rail system may only be allowed subsequent to the release of the guide pins from the locked position recesses of the cam and the release of a secondary locking mechanism. In one example, if one of i) the guide pins are not moved out of the locked position recesses, or ii) the secondary locking mechanism is not released, then movement of the cam and the rail support system may be prohibited. In another example, if the guide pins are moved out of the locked position recesses but the secondary locking mechanism is not released, then movement of the cam and rail support system may be prohibited. In another example, if the guide pins are moved out of the locked position recesses and the secondary locking mechanism is released, then movement of the cam and the rail support system may be allowed.

FIG.10illustrates a cross-sectional view of one example of a secondary lock assembly193. The secondary lock assembly includes a mounting fixture177that is coupled with the sleeve portion192of the mounting bracket (shown inFIG.4), a lock hinge179that is coupled with the mounting fixture, a secondary lock pin175that is coupled with the lock hinge and extends into a secondary lock engagement recess155of the mounting bracket190A. The secondary lock engagement recess (also shown inFIG.4) allows access of the secondary lock pin175to the plural recesses of the cam118. While the secondary lock pin175is engaged with the plural recesses of the cam, the cam may be prohibited from moving. The secondary lock assembly also includes a release mechanism145, which may be a chain, a rope, a rod, or the like, that extends away from the secondary lock assembly.

While the safety rail support system is in the loaded position (shown inFIG.2), an operator standing on the ground surface108(shown inFIG.1) may move or pull the release mechanism145to move the secondary lock pin175in a direction195out of the secondary lock engagement recess155to allow movement of the cam. For example, the operator may move the secondary lock pin out of the secondary lock engagement recess, and may subsequently use the tool143to move the safety rail support assembly in the first linear direction208to move the guide pins out of the locked position recesses. The operator may be unable to move the safety rail support assembly in the first linear direction208until the secondary lock pin has been removed from the secondary lock engagement recess. WhileFIG.10illustrates one example of a secondary lock assembly, the safety rail support assembly may include any alternative secondary lock assembly or system having any alternative arrangement, components, or the like. As one example, the secondary lock assembly may be a motor device that may be controlled by a key, a key code, or the like. As another example, the secondary lock assembly may be a bracket, a clamp, or the like, that may prohibit movement of the rail components.

In one example, the safety rail support system may include the first rail support assembly110and the second rail support assembly150, illustrated inFIGS.1-3. The second rail support assembly may be the same as, or substantially similar to, the first rail support assembly illustrated inFIGS.4-8. For example, the second rail support assembly may include a second support rod, a second cam, a second mounting bracket, and the second rail component152. The second cam may have recesses (not shown) that have the same or a similar arrangement as the recesses of the first cam118. For example, the second cam may include second exterior surfaces with plural second recesses that extend from the second exterior surfaces and toward a second interior passage of the second cam. The second rail support assembly may also include a second set of guide pins that may extend into the second recesses of the second cam and may control movement of the second cam.

In one example, the first cam may be the same as the second cam. For example, the first rail support assembly may include the first cam, and the second rail support assembly may also include the first cam. The plural first recesses of the first cam may be substantially the same as the plural second recesses of the second cam. For example, an arrangement of the plural first recesses (e.g., shape, size, configuration, orientation, placement relative to the first and second ends of the cams, etc.) may be the same or substantially the same as an arrangement of the plural second recesses.

In one example, the first cam118includes the first locked position recess (shown inFIG.9) and the second cam158includes a second locked position recess. The first cam may be prohibited from rotating responsive to at least one guide pin of a first set of guide pins moving into the first locked position recess of the first cam, and the second cam may be prohibited from rotating responsive to at least one guide pin of a second set of guide pins moving into the second locked position recess of the second cam. For example, the third rail component may be disposed in the loaded position while at least one of the first set of guide pins is disposed in the first locked position recess of the first cam, and the while at least one of the second set of guide pins is disposed in the second locked position recess of the second cam. Additionally, the first and second cams may be allowed to rotate (e.g., in the CCW direction212) while the first and second sets of guide pins are disposed in the travel path recesses of the first and second cams, respectively. In another example, the recesses of the cams may be arranged such that cams may rotate in a clockwise direction.

In the illustrated embodiments, the first rail support assembly includes a first set of guide pins that includes two guide pins. Optionally, one or both of the first or second rail support assemblies may include a single guide pin, or more than two guide pins. The number of guide pins may be based on a configuration of the recesses of the cam, a size of the cam, a degree of rotation the cam is allowed to rotate about the axis, or the like. In one example, a rail support assembly may include a cam that has two or more travel path recesses, and the number of guide pins may be based on the number of travel path recesses of the cam. For example,FIG.11Aillustrates a cross-sectional top view of the first cam of the first rail support assembly. In the illustrated embodiment, the two guide pins134A,134B extend into the recesses206A,206B, respectively, of the first cam to control the movement of the first cam118. For example, the first cam includes two travel path recesses and two locked position recesses into which the two guide pins extend. Alternatively,FIG.11Billustrates a cross-sectional top view of a cam1218in accordance with another embodiment. The cam1218may include three recesses1206A,1206B,1206C disposed about a perimeter1286of the cam, into which three guide pins1234A,1234B,1234C may extend, respectively. Each of the three recesses may include a travel path recess and a locked position recess. The three guide pins1234A,1234B,1234C may be used to control the movement of the cam1218. In another example, the cams may include more than three recess arrangements disposed about the circumference of the cam.

FIG.12Aillustrates a safety rail support system900in an unloaded position904, according to an example of the present disclosure.FIG.12Billustrates the safety rail support system900shown inFIG.12Ain a loaded position906, according to an example of the present disclosure. The safety rail support system900includes a rail support assembly910having a support rod (not shown), a first rail component912, a mounting bracket990, and a cam918. The rail support assembly is arranged to move a second rail component950in the first and second linear directions208,210, respectively, between the unloaded position904and the loaded position906. Like the rail support system100shown inFIGS.1and2, the safety rail support system is in the unloaded position904while the system is disposed at a first position relative to the surface108, and the safety rail support system is in the loaded position906while the system is disposed at a second position relative to the surface108that is different than the first position. For example, the safety rail support system is disposed further away from the ground surface while the safety rail system is in the loaded position.

In the illustrated example, the system includes the first rail component912that extends substantially vertically and is coupled with the second rail component to move the second rail component between the loaded and unloaded positions. In alternative examples, the system may include any number of vertically extending rail components, that may be coupled with any number of substantially horizontally extending other rail components. In alternative examples, the system may include rail components operably coupled with each other in alternative angled arrangements (e.g., non-right angled or non-90° arrangements).

The rail support assembly may also include a spring920. In the illustrated example, the spring is disposed between the mounting bracket and the second rail component, and extends around the first rail component. Additionally or alternatively, one or more springs may be disposed in an alternative position. The spring(s) may be used to encourage movement of the safety rail support system towards one of the loaded position or the unloaded position. For example, the spring(s) may be shaped, sized, and/or arranged to reduce an amount of effort needed for an operator to move the safety rail support system between the loaded and unloaded positions. The spring(s) may assist the operator by taking weight off of the rail components, making it easier for the operator to raise and lower the rail components. As another example, the spring(s) may be shaped, sized, and/or arranged to control a speed of movement of the safety rail support system in the first and/or second linear directions. As another example, the spring(s) may be shaped, sized, and/or arrangement to control a speed of rotation of the cam and/or a direction of rotation of the cam (e.g., in the clockwise direction and/or counterclockwise direction).

As another example, the spring(s) may be designed based on weight limitations, lifting requirements, safety standards and/or regulations, or the like. For example, a safety standard regulation may indicate that the amount of weight the operator is required to lift and/or move cannot exceed 30 pounds, but the rail components may weigh about 50 pounds. The spring(s) may be designed to reduce the amount of weight the operator is required to move in order for the operator to adhere to the safety standard regulation.

FIGS.13A and13Billustrate an alternative use for a rail or cam locking system1300.FIG.13Aillustrates the cam locking system1300in an unloaded state or unloaded position1304, according to an example of the present disclosure.FIG.13Billustrates the cam locking system1300in a loaded state or loaded position1306. The cam locking system1300includes a work platform1302that moves between a lowered height (shown inFIG.13A) and a raised or elevated height (shown inFIG.13B). The cam locking system includes first and second rail components1312,1352that extend substantially vertically, and third and fourth rail components1370,1371that extend substantially horizontally and are coupled with the first and second rail components. The first rail component is coupled with first and second cams1318A,1318B, that move into and out of a first mounting bracket1390A, respectively, based on the system being in the unloaded position or the loaded position. Additionally, the second rail component is coupled with third and fourth cams1318C,1318D, that move into and out of a second mounting bracket1390B, respectively, based on the system being in the unloaded or loaded positions. For example, while the system1300is in the unloaded position, the first cam1318A is coupled with the first mounting bracket1390A and the third cam1318C is coupled with the second mounting bracket1390B. Alternatively, while the system1300is in the loaded position, the second cam1318B is coupled with the first mounting bracket1390A and the fourth cam1318D is coupled with the second mounting bracket1390B.

The work platform1302is coupled with the first and second rail components. In the illustrated example, the platform moves vertically with the cam locking system. While the work platform1302is at a lowered height, the cams1318A,1318C are loaded into the mounting brackets1390A,1390B. Alternatively, while the work platform1302is at the elevated or raised height, the cams1318B,1318D are loaded into the mounting brackets1390A,1390B, respectively. For example, the movement of cam locking system between the loaded and unloaded positions moves the work platform1302and the third and fourth rail components towards and away from a surface1308. For example, the rail components are in a fixed position relative to the work platform, and movement of the work platform causes movement of the rail components. The surface1308may be a ground surface, may be another platform or elevated surface, or the like. An operator1311positioned on the platform1302may move vertically up and down with the movement of the system between the loaded and unloaded positions.

FIGS.14A and14Billustrate another alternative use for a cam locking system1400.FIG.14Aillustrates the cam locking system1400in an unloaded position1404, according to an example of the present disclosure.FIG.14Billustrates the cam locking system1400in a loaded position1406. Like the system1300shown inFIGS.13A,13B, a work platform1402of the cam locking system1400moves with the rail components1412,1452,1470,1471towards and away from a surface1408. An operator1411positioned on the work platform1402may move vertically with the movement of the system between the loaded and unloaded positions.

The cam locking system1400also includes a first cam1418A that is coupled with the first rail component1412, and a second cam1418B that is coupled with the second rail component1452. While the system1400is in the unloaded position (e.g., the work platform is at the lowered position, as shown inFIG.14A), the first cam1418A is loaded into a first mounting bracket1490B and the second cam1418B is loaded into a second mounting bracket1490D. While the system1400is in the loaded position (e.g., the work platform is at the elevated or raised position, as shown inFIG.14B), the first cam1418A is loaded into a third mounting bracket1490A, and the second cam1418B is loaded into a fourth mounting bracket1490C. The work platform1402moves between the lowered position and the elevated or raised position. Additionally, the rail components are in a fixed position relative to the work platform, and movement of the work platform causes movement of the rail components.

FIG.15illustrates a safety rail support system1500, according to an example of the present disclosure. In the illustrated example, the system1500includes plural vertically-extending rail components1512A-1512D, and the same plural number of cam1518A-1518D and mounting brackets1590A-D. In alternatively examples, the system may include fewer cams and mounting brackets than the number of vertically-extending rail components. In another example, one or more vertically-extending rail components may include two or more cams coupled thereto.

The plural vertically-extending first rail components are coupled with one or more horizontally-extending rail components1570,1571. In one example, the vertically-extending first rail components may move the horizontally-extending rail components towards or away from a platform1502. In another example, the vertically-extending first rail components may move the horizontally-extending rail components and the platform1502between different vertical positions.

FIG.16Aillustrates a safety rail support system1600in an unloaded position1604, according to an example of the present disclosure.FIG.16Billustrates the safety rail support system1600in a first loaded position1606, according to an example of the present disclosure. The system1600includes a first cam1618A and a first mounting bracket1690A that are coupled with a first rail component1612, a second cam1618B and a second mounting bracket1690B that are coupled with a second rail component1620, a third cam1618C and a third mounting bracket1690C that are coupled with a third rail component1622, and a fourth cam1618D and a fourth mounting bracket1690D that are coupled with a fourth rail component1624. The system also includes a first set1670A,1671A of horizontally-extending rail components that are coupled with the first and second rail components1612,1620, and a second set1670B,1671B of horizontally-extending rail components that are coupled with the third and fourth rail components1622,1624.

The system may be in the unloaded state while all of the horizontally-extending rail components1670A,1671A,1670B,1671B are disposed proximate to the platform (shown inFIG.16A) and the cams1618A-D are positioned outside of the corresponding mounting brackets. The system may be in a first loaded state while the first set of horizontally-extending rail components1670A,1671A are in the unloaded state (e.g., disposed closer to the platform relative to the second set of horizontally-extending rail components1670B,1671B) and the second set of horizontally-extending rail components1670B,1671B are in the loaded state (shown inFIG.16B). For example, in the first loaded state, the first and second cams are positioned outside of the first and second mounting brackets, and the third and fourth cams are positioned inside of the third and fourth mounting brackets. The system may be a second loaded state while all of the horizontally-extending rail components1670A,1671A,1670B,1671B are in the loaded state and have been moved away from the platform (not shown). For example, in the second loaded state, the first, second, third, and fourth cams may be positioned inside of the corresponding mounting brackets.

In one or more examples, the system may be arranged, or have one or more features, that controls the order in which the rails components1670A,1671A,1670B,1671B are moved between the loaded and unloaded positions. For example, the rail components1670B,1671B may be required to be moved from the unloaded position to the loaded position before the other rail components1670A,1671A are allowed to move from the unloaded position to the loaded position, or vice versa. As an example, the system may include a locking mechanism (not shown) that moves between a locked state and an unlocked state based on the position of the rail components1670B,1671B, such that the locking mechanism may allow or prevent movement of the other rail components1670A,1671A based on the position of the rail components1670B,1671B.

FIG.17Aillustrates a cam locking system1700in a first state, according to an example of the present disclosure.FIG.17Billustrates the cam locking system1700in a second state.FIG.17Cillustrates the cam locking system1700in a third state. In the illustrated example, the cam locking system includes plural cam assemblies1710A,1710B,1710C that may be raised and lowered, such as to allow a vehicle to move past the cam assemblies1710A-C and through a gate system having a first component1704that extends horizontally away from a second component1706. The first cam assembly1710A includes a first cam1718A coupled with a first rail1712A that is loaded into a first mounting bracket1790A, the second cam assembly1710B includes a second cam1718B coupled with a second rail1712B that is loaded into a second mounting bracket1790B, and the third cam assembly1710C includes a third cam1718C coupled with a third rail1712C that is loaded into a third mounting bracket1790C. The first, second, and third cams may include plural recesses into which guide pins (not shown) may move between travel path recesses and locked position recesses to move the cam assemblies between loaded positions (e.g., where access through the gate system is blocked) and unloaded positions (e.g., where access through the gate system is allowed). For example, the cam assemblies may be in the loaded positions while the cam assemblies extend above a ground surface1702, and the cam assemblies may be in the unloaded positions while the cam assemblies are disposed below the ground surface1702.

In one example, each of the cam assemblies1710A-C may be controlled independent of each other cam assembly. In another example, two or more of the cam assemblies may be controlled together, such as by an operator pushing a button that may initiate operation of one or more motors (not shown) attached to one or more of the cam assemblies. For example, an operator may activate movement of a motor that is operably coupled with one or more of the cam assemblies, to control movement of the one or more cam assemblies between the loaded and unloaded positions.

FIG.18illustrates a cam locking system1800in plural different states, according to an example of the present disclosure. The system1800includes a first vehicle1810that has a first rail component1830extending from one end of the first vehicle, and a cam1818that is coupled with the first rail component. The system1800also includes a second vehicle1812that includes a second rail component1832extending from one end of the second vehicle, and a mounting bracket1890that is coupled with the second rail component. The first vehicle may be a propulsion-generating vehicle, and the second vehicle may be a non-propulsion-generating vehicle (e.g., a trailer, a cart, a buggy, or the like). The first rail component extends away from the first vehicle in a direction toward the second vehicle, and the second rail component extends away from the second vehicle in a direction toward the first vehicle.

In a first state1802, the first vehicle is separated from the second vehicle. The first vehicle may move in a first direction1820towards the second vehicle. In a second state1804, the cam1818that is coupled with the first vehicle engages with the mounting bracket1890that is coupled with the second vehicle. For example, the mounting bracket may include guide pins (not shown) that may move into the plural recesses of the cam, and may move into locked position recesses of the cam. In a third state1806, while the guide pins are disposed in the locked position recesses of the cam1818, the first vehicle may move in a second direction1822and may move the second vehicle with movement of the first vehicle. To disconnect the cam1818from the mounting bracket1890, the first vehicle may move in the first direction1820to move the guide pins out of the locked position recesses, and may subsequently move in the second direction1822to move the guide pins into the travel path recesses of the cam1818until the guide pins move out of the travel path recesses of the cam.

Further, the disclosure comprises examples according to the following clauses:

Clause 1: a cam locking assembly comprising:a support rod having a rod body that extends between a first end and s second end of the support rod along an axis;a first rail component having a first rail body that extends between a third end and a fourth end of the first rail component along the axis, the third end of the first rail component configured to be operably coupled with the second end of the support rod, the fourth end of the first rail component configured to be operably coupled with a third rail component;a cam having one or more interior surfaces defining an interior passage extending along the axis, wherein at least a portion of the support rod is configured to be disposed within the interior passage of the cam, the cam including an exterior surface having plural recesses extending from the exterior surface toward the interior passage; andone or more guide pins configured to extend into the plural recesses of the cam, the one or more guide pins configured to control movement of the cam,wherein movement of the cam is configured to control movement of the third rail component between a loaded position and an unloaded position.

Clause 2: the cam locking assembly of clause 1, wherein the support rod, the first rail component, and the cam are concentric with each other about the axis.

Clause 3: the cam locking assembly of clauses 1 or 2, wherein the cam is configured to move in a first linear direction to move the third rail component into the loaded position (e.g., a locked position), and the cam is configured to move in a second linear direction to move the third rail component into the unloaded position (e.g., an unlocked position).

Clause 4: the cam locking assembly of clauses 1-3, wherein the plural recesses include a locked position recess and a travel path recess, wherein the cam is prohibited from rotating responsive to the one or more guide pins being disposed in the locked position recess. Optionally, the rail support assembly may include a secondary lock feature. The cam may be prohibited from rotating responsive to one or both of i) the guide pin(s) being disposed in the locked position recess and/or ii) the secondary lock feature being engaged. The cam may be allowed to rotate responsive to both of i) the guide pin(s) moving out of the locked position recess and ii) the second lock feature being disengaged. The secondary lock feature may prevent accidental movement of the guide pin(s) out of the locked position recess, accidental movement of the cam, etc.

Clause 5: the cam locking assembly of clauses 1 or 4, wherein the third rail component is configured to be disposed in the loaded position while the one or more guide pins are disposed in the locked position recess.

Clause 6: the cam locking assembly of clauses 1 or 4, wherein the cam is allowed to rotate while the one or more guide pins are disposed in the travel path recess.

Clause 7: the cam locking assembly of clauses 1-6, further comprising a mounting bracket including one or more surfaces defining a passage configured to receive at least a portion of the support rod, the mounting bracket configured to be coupled with a support structure of an elevated platform.

Clause 8: the cam locking assembly of clauses 1-7, further comprising one or more magnetic devices configured to encourage movement of the cam in one or more directions.

Clause 9: the cam locking assembly of clauses 1-8, wherein movement of the cam is configured to be activated by an operator.

Clause 10: a safety rail support system configured to be operably coupled with an elevated platform, the safety rail support system comprising:a first cam locking assembly comprising:a first support rod having a first rod body that extends between a first end and s second end along a first axis;a first rail component having a first rail body that extends between a third end and a fourth end along the first axis, the third end of the first rail component configured to be operably coupled with the second end of the support rod, the fourth end of the first rail component configured to be operably coupled with a third rail component;a first cam having one or more interior surfaces defining a first interior passage extending along the first axis, wherein a portion of the first support rod is configured to be disposed within the first interior passage of the cam, the first cam including a first exterior surface having plural first recesses extending from the first exterior surface toward the first interior passage; anda first set of guide pins configured to extend into the plural first recesses of the first cam, the first set of guide pins configured to control movement of the first cam; anda second cam locking assembly comprising:a second support rod having a second rod body that extends between a fifth end and a sixth end of the second support rod along a second axis;a second rail component having a second rail body that extends between a seventh end and an eighth end of the second rail component along the second axis, the seventh end of the second rail component configured to be operably coupled with sixth end of the second support rod, the eighth end of the second rail component configured to be operably coupled with the third rail component;a second cam having one or more interior surfaces defining a second interior passage extending along the second axis, wherein at least a portion of the second support rod is configured to be disposed within the second interior passage, the second cam including a second exterior surface having plural second recesses extending from the second exterior surface toward the second interior passage; anda second set of guide pins configured to extend into the plural second recesses of the second cam, the second set of guide pins configured to control movement of the second cam,wherein movement of the first cam and movement of the second cam is configured to control movement of the third rail component between a loaded position and an unloaded position, andwherein the third rail component in the loaded position is configured to block access onto or off the elevated platform, and the third rail component in the unloaded position is configured to allow access onto or off of the elevated platform.

Clause 11: the safety rail support system of clause 10, wherein movement of the first cam and movement of the second cam is configured to be activated by an operator.

Clause 12: the safety rail support system of clauses 10 or 11, wherein the plural first recesses of the first cam includes first locked position recesses and first travel path recesses, and the plural second recesses of the second cam includes second locked position recesses and second travel path recesses.

Clause 13: the safety rail support system of clauses 10 or 12, wherein first cam is prohibited from rotating responsive to the first set of guide pins moving into the first lock position recesses, and the second cam is prohibited from rotating responsive to the second set of guide pins moving into the second locked position recesses.

Clause 14: the safety rail support system of clauses 10 or 12, wherein the third rail component is configured to be in the loaded position while the first set of guide pins are disposed in the first locked position recesses and the second set of guide pins are disposed in the second locked position recesses.

Clause 15: the safety rail support system of clauses 10 or 12, wherein the first and second cams are allowed to rotate while the first set of guide pins are disposed in the first travel path recesses and the second set of guide pins are disposed in the second travel path recesses.

Clause 16: the safety rail support system of clauses 10-15, further comprising:a first mounting bracket configured to be operably coupled with a support structure of the elevated platform at a first location, the first mounting bracket including a first passage configured to receive a portion of the first support rod and a portion of the first rail component; anda second mounting bracket configured to be operably coupled with the support structure of the elevated platform at a second location, the second mounting bracket including a second passage configured to receive a portion of the second support rod and a portion of the second rail component.

Clause 17: the safety rail support system of clauses 10-16, further comprising one or more motors configured to activate movement of the first cam and movement of the second cam to control movement of the third rail component between the loaded position and the unloaded position.

Clause 18: the safety rail support system of clauses 10-17, wherein the first support rod, the first rail component, and the first cam are concentric with each other about the first axis, and the second support rod, the second rail component, and the second cam are concentric with each other about the second axis.

Clause 19: the safety rail support system of clauses 10-18, further comprising one or more of a magnetic device or a spring, wherein the one or more of the magnetic device or the spring are configured to encourage movement of the first cam and the second cam in one or more directions. Optionally, the magnetic device or the spring may encourage movement of the cam (e.g., rotational movement, linear movement, or a combination of rotational and linear movement).

Clause 20: a method comprising:moving a first rail component of a cam locking assembly into a loaded position, the cam locking assembly including a cam and a second rail component configured to be disposed between the cam and the first rail component, the cam locking assembly configured to be operably coupled with an elevated and/or non-elevated platform, wherein the cam is configured to move in a first linear direction to move the first rail component into the loaded position, wherein the first rail component in the loaded position is configured to block access onto or off of the elevated platform; andmoving the first rail component into an unloaded position, wherein the cam is configured to move in a second linear direction to move the first rail component into the unloaded position, wherein the first rail component in the unloaded position is configured to allow access onto or off of the elevated platform.

As described herein, examples of the present disclosure provide systems and methods for moving safety rail systems between loaded positions and unloaded positions, such as to provide safety to operators standing on an elevated platform, to allow movement of items (e.g., equipment, systems, or the like) over the stationary platform, to allow movement of the elevated platform from one location to another without interfering with a structure (e.g., an airplane or any other structure).