Patent Publication Number: US-10329718-B2

Title: Modular platform deck for traffic

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/503,574, filed on May 9, 2017, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The present disclosure relates to modular platforms. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     In areas where there is pedestrian and vehicular traffic, particularly in publicly-accessible areas, it is common to have specific pedestrian pathways, such as walkways. Such walkways might include sidewalks, pedestrian or vehicular bridges, pedestrian and vehicle ramps, paved walkways through parks, patios, floor surfaces, balconies and the like. Such pedestrian walkways exist in public transit facilities (e.g., subway stations), light rapid transit, bus rapid transit, railway stations, and other locations where there is pedestrian traffic. In many types of pedestrian walkways, there is a requirement for pedestrians to be able to safely navigate such walkways and to remain on the walkways, especially where public transit vehicles are passing closely by. This is particularly important for mass transit platforms near, for example, subways, buses, or trains where there is a need for safe pedestrian walkways. 
     Besides specific pathways for pedestrians, there can be a need for pedestrians to be able to maintain good traction on pedestrian walkways in order to prevent slips and falls, particularly on outdoor surfaces that can be subject to inclement weather such as wind, rain, snow, or ice. 
     Additionally, it may be important for pedestrians to be able to determine the presence of platform edges so that the pedestrians do not accidentally walk off the edge of a platform, especially if a vehicle might be passing by. This may be especially important in mass transit situations, and particularly for subways or commuter trains, where the side of the subway or train is right at the edge of the platform. The need for making the presence of platform edges easy to determine may be of particular importance when making such facilities accessible and safe for blind or visually impaired persons. 
     Conventional concrete and wooden transit platforms may have a durability problem due to degradation by environmental chemicals such as salt, urea, acid rain, oils, and greases as well as stray electrical currents. This necessitates regular maintenance and periodic replacement of the platforms at considerable cost and service disruption to transit authorities. Steel and concrete are also susceptible to corrosive elements, such as water, salt water, and agents present in the environment like acid rain, road salts, or chemicals. Environmental exposure of concrete structures leads to pitting and spalling in concrete and thereby results in severe cracking and a significant decrease in strength in the concrete structure. Steel is likewise susceptible to corrosion, such as rust, by chemical attack. The rusting of steel weakens the steel, transferring tensile load to the concrete, thereby cracking the structure. The rusting of steel in standalone applications requires ongoing maintenance, and after a period of time corrosion can result in failure of the structure. The planned life of steel structures is likewise reduced by rust. Wood has been another long-time building material for bridges and other structures. Wood, like concrete and steel, is also susceptible to environmental attack, especially by rot from weather and termites. In such environments, wood encounters a drastic reduction in strength which compromises the integrity of the structure. Moreover, wood undergoes accelerated deterioration in structures in marine environments, and is susceptible to fire damage. 
     Concrete structures are typically constructed with the concrete poured in situ as well as using some preformed components pre-cast into structural components (e.g., supports) and transported to the site of the construction. Constructing such concrete structures in situ requires hauling building materials and heavy equipment and pouring and casting the components on site. This process often requires the use of cranes, which can be costly and difficult to use in the case of nearby overhead wires. The weight of concrete structures also increase the necessary foundational requirements, which can increase cost, complexity and time of construction. Consequently, this process of construction involves lengthy construction times and is generally costly, time consuming, subject to delay due to weather and environmental conditions, and disruptive to existing traffic patterns. 
     Pre-cast concrete structural components are extremely heavy and bulky. Therefore, these are typically costly and difficult to transport to the site of construction due in part to their bulkiness and heavy weight. Although construction time is shortened as compared to poured in situ, extensive time, with resulting delays, is still a factor. Construction with such pre-cast forms is particularly difficult, if not impossible, in areas with difficult access or where the working area is severely restricted due to adjoining tracks, buildings, or platforms. In typical pre-cast concrete construction, tolerances of plus or minus one-quarter inch or more are common, making precise installation and alignment difficult. Pre-cast components may also require the addition of a topping surface to create a finished, level surface. 
     There is a need for a lightweight structure to facilitate installation in areas with difficult access and/or restricted working areas. In addition, a lightweight structure eliminates the costly concrete foundations and steel support systems necessary to support conventional concrete platforms. 
     Therefore, an improved modular assembly, such as for a transit platform, is needed. 
     SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The present disclosure provides for a modular assembly. The modular assembly can include a plurality of base members made of a plastic material, each base member including a top surface and a bottom surface opposite of the top surface, the bottom surface defining channels. A plurality of support members can be provided, each of the plurality of support members may extend across the plurality of base members and disposed within the channels of the plurality of base members. A mounting bracket can be configured to mount each of the plurality of support members to a metal plate of a lower support structure, the metal plate being received by a clamp of the mounting bracket. Each of the plurality of base members can adjoin one another to form a horizontal platform for traffic. 
     The present disclosure also provides for a method of installing a modular assembly. A plurality of base members made of a plastic composite material can be provided. Each base member may include a top surface and a bottom surface opposite of the top surface. The bottom surface can define channels. A plurality of support members can be provided. Each of the plurality of support members can extend across the plurality of base members and be disposed within the channels of the plurality of base members. A metal plate of a lower support structure can be clamped to the plurality of support members with a mounting bracket to form a horizontal platform for traffic. 
     The lower support structure can be formed by drilling a plurality of helical piles into soil. The plurality of helical piles can be cut to a desired height. Respective lower support surfaces of adjustable leveling mechanisms can be welded to each of the plurality of helical piles. Respective upper support surfaces of each of the adjustable leveling mechanisms can be fastened to an I-beam. The metal plate of the lower support structure can be formed from an upper flange of the I-beam 
     A plurality of fasteners can extend between the upper support surface and the lower support surface. A vertical height of each of the adjustable leveling mechanisms can adjust by moving a support element along the plurality of fasteners. The support element can support the upper support surface and/or the lower support surface. The upper support surface and the lower support surface can also include a plurality of elongated apertures that receive the plurality of fasteners. The plurality of fasteners can be laterally slidable along the apertures to adjust a horizontal position of the upper support surface relative to the lower support surface. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the disclosure, reference should be made to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular assembly on a receiving surface in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2  is a view of an embodiment of a modular assembly in both assembled and partially exploded forms; 
         FIG. 3  includes front and side facing views of an embodiment of a modular assembly in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a modular assembly with a heater assembly in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of an embodiment of a heater assembly in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 6  is an exploded view of the embodiment of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 7  is another exploded view of the embodiment of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 8  is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a modular assembly in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 9  is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a modular assembly in accordance with the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 10  is a view of an embodiment of a modular assembly; 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded view of a modular assembly on helical piles; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a clamp connection to an I-beam; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a second clamp connection to an I-beam; 
         FIG. 14-15  illustrate a leveling mechanism; 
         FIG. 16  is a partially exploded view of a base member unit; 
         FIG. 17  depicts installation of a modular assembly; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates the process of accessing a heater assembly; 
         FIGS. 19-20  depicts a railing connection; 
         FIG. 21  illustrates another embodiment of a mounting bracket and leveling mechanism; 
         FIGS. 22 a -22 c    are additional views of a leveling mechanism; 
         FIGS. 23-24  are cross-sectional views of a modular assembly; 
         FIGS. 25 a -25 b    are cross-sectional views illustrating an above-surface structure connected to the modular assembly; 
         FIG. 26  is an elevation view of a modular assembly having above-surface structures affixed-thereto; and 
         FIG. 27  depicts a method of installing a modular assembly. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     Although claimed subject matter will be described in terms of certain embodiments, other embodiments, including embodiments that do not provide all of the benefits and features set forth herein, are also within the scope of this disclosure. Various structural, process step, and electronic changes may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. 
     A modular assembly for decks, panels, platforms, boardwalks, floors, and the like is provided. The modular assembly is mounted on supporting members. In particular, the modular assembly may be used with a transit platform, such as at a train, subway, or bus station. 
     The modular assembly disclosed herein is easier to assemble than a concrete platform. Compared to existing systems, the modular assembly is preformed, easy to install, and easy to remove or replace. The modular assembly can be assembled or replaced quickly, which minimizes disruptions. Assembly or replacement can be easily performed even in areas with difficult access and/or restricted working areas. The modular assembly may be made of a lightweight, strong, and durable material, such as a composite material. 
     Furthermore, safety is improved using the modular assembly disclosed herein. In many types of pedestrian walkways, there is a requirement for pedestrians to be able to safely navigate such walkways and to remain on the walkways, especially where public transit vehicles are passing nearby. This may be particularly important for mass transit platforms in public transit facilities. The modular assembly disclosed herein can provide warnings proximate the edges, slip-resistant surfaces, and/or heating systems to melt frost, snow and ice. The modular assembly may also include, or entirely comprise, photoluminescent materials to provide information to pedestrians and/or vehicle operators. For example, exit, safety, warning, and/or related indicators can be included in the surface of the assembly for the purposes of conveying information. Accidents, such as slips and falls, can be prevented and tactile wayfinding can be incorporated. 
       FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a modular assembly  100  on a receiving surface  102  using piles  103 . The modular assembly  100  includes multiple base members  101 . The receiving surface  102  may be, for example, a compacted gravel surface, a concrete surface, or other surfaces. The base members  101  can be connected to the piles  103 . In an embodiment, the piles  103  are disposed in the ground, which is another example of a receiving surface  102 . 
     While illustrated as approximately rectangular, the base members  101  can be square, polygonal, or other shapes. In one specific embodiment, each base member  101  can have a 2 foot by 4 foot surface and a height of 7 inches. 
     The base members  101  may be lightweight and water-resistant. In some embodiments the base members  101  can be made of a composite, polymer plastic material, vinyl, rubber, urethane, ceramic, glass reinforced plastic, concrete, or similar materials. 
     The base member  101  may provide drainage due to their materials or shape. For example, the top surface of the base member  101  may be angled or the base member  101  may include drainage channels or drain pipes that extend through the base member  101 . 
     The base members  101  can be resistant to salt, urea, acid rain, oils, greases, stray electrical currents, or other environment factors. Unlike wood, the base members  101  can be impervious to rot or termites. 
       FIG. 2  is a view of an embodiment of a modular assembly  100  in both assembled and partially exploded forms. As with  FIG. 1 , the modular assembly  100  includes multiple base members  101 , each with a top surface  115  and an opposite bottom surface  116  that includes the channels  106 . In the embodiment of  FIG. 2 , the modular assembly  100  includes five base members  101 , though other numbers and configurations are possible. One of the base members  101  includes a textured surface  104 , though more than one of the base members  101  can include the textured surface  104 , such as on the top surface  115  that a pedestrian can walk on. The textured surface can vary from the raised cylindrical bumps illustrated and can provide grip for pedestrians and/or a warning to a pedestrian that he or she is, for example, nearing an edge of a platform. Other warnings or benefits are possible. Moreover, other arrays of base members  101  than that illustrated can be arranged in a two-dimensional pattern. 
     The base members  101  each include two channels  106 . Each of the support members  105  are configured to be disposed in one of the channels  106 . The support members  105  may be made of a metal, such as a steel or aluminum. The support members  105  can also be made of a non-metal material, such as a composite material, like fiberglass. In alternative embodiments, the surface panel  112  can be formed of a non-composite material such as a tile, concrete, or the like. The support members  105  may be a tube, beam, or other structural element. The support members  105  may be fastened to the base members  101 , such as using bolts or screws. 
     Besides or in conjunction with fasteners, the support members  105  may be clamped to the base members  101  using a mounting bracket or a clamping mechanism. In an example, the support member  105  is an I-beam and the base member  101  is provided with Z clip mounting bracket. The Z clip mounting bracket may be fabricated of stainless steel to resist corrosion. 
     A wiring raceway  109  is positioned on the support members  105 . The wiring raceway  109  can include wires for a heating assembly in the base member  101 , electrical lighting wiring, communications wiring, or other wiring. 
       FIG. 3  includes front and side facing views of an embodiment of a modular assembly  100 . As seen in  FIG. 3 , the modular assembly  100  can be arranged on a surface with a non-constant grade. The shape of the base members, position of the piles, or the position of individual base members on the piles can be configured to accommodate the non-constant grade. 
     Piles can be used to anchor the structures into the ground and support the structure above the ground. In one embodiment, conventional foundation piles can be used, where a precast concrete pile or steel beam is driven into a soil bed. In other embodiments, a screw pile may be used to produce a deep foundation that can be installed quickly with minimal noise and vibration. For example, screw piles may be efficiently wound into the ground. This can provide for an efficient means of installation and coupled with their mechanism of dispersing load, may provide effective in-ground performance in a range of soils, including earthquake zones with liquefaction potential. Using this technique, the structures may be above a body of water. The ground may also include artificial supporting fillers, such as concrete. Such structures include buildings, bridges, ramps, decks, panels, platforms, and boardwalks. 
     Piles can also be installed by pre-drilling a hole in a soil bed using an auger and lowering a pre-molded pile into the hole. A hybrid system also exists between the driving and drilling methods whereby an open ended pile is driven into a soil bed, after which point the soil inside the pile is augured out and concrete is poured in the cavity formed therein. Cast-and-hole methods as well as caissons may also be used, specifically where there are concerns for preserving nearby buildings against the problems discussed above. A pile also can be attached to a drill head which is substantially larger than the diameter of the pile itself. The pile is turned together with the drill head by a drilling rig to create a passage in the soil bed through which the pile may pass. A conduit is provided through the center of the pile for water or grout to be pumped down and out the tip of the drill head to either float away debris or anchor the pile in its final resting place in the soil bed. 
       FIGS. 4 and 5  depict an exemplary modular assembly having a heater assembly  108 . The heater assembly  108  can include, for example, an electric silicone heater. Other heaters can be used, including other thin sheet-type electrically powered heaters and heaters sandwiched by a composite material. The heater assembly  108  also can include an electric enclosure  110  and a power cable  111 . Some embodiments may also include a grounding plate to avoid or minimize the danger of electrocution or fire in case of a failure of the heater assembly  108 . The deck module (i.e., the bottom module) may include a textured top surface and/or may include graphics on the top surface. 
       FIGS. 6 and 7  are exploded views of the embodiment of  FIG. 4 . The heater assembly  108  can be positioned between the surface panel  112  and the deck module  107 . As can be seen in  FIG. 7 , the deck module  107  may include a cavity  113  that can accommodate, for example, the electric enclosure  110  and/or power cable  111 . The deck module  107  and surface panel  112  may be fastened together, such as using bolts or screws. For example, fastener holes  119  (only one of which referred to in  FIG. 7  for simplicity) can be used with the fasteners. In yet other embodiments the surface panel  112  can be embedded or recessed into the deck module  107 . Channels  106  can include a primary portion  120  and a secondary portion  121 . The support member  105  may be positioned in the primary portion  120 . One or more fasteners (not shown) may be positioned in groove  118  to connect the deck module  107  to the support member  105  and thereby allow the heater assembly  108  and/or surface panel  112  to rest flush against the deck module  107 . 
     The base member  101  can include a coating that is configured to seal the heater assembly  108  between the deck module  107  and the surface panel  112 . This can prevent moisture from impairing operation of the heater assembly  108 . The coating may be continuous around the entire base member  101  where the deck module  107  and surface panel  112  meet. Seals or other devices also can be used to prevent the impact of moisture. 
     In an embodiment, the heater assembly  108  is in direct contact with the surface panel  112  to maximize heat transfer. In another embodiment, an adhesive or filler between the heater assembly  108  and the surface panel  112  is used to provide improved heat transfer. 
     The deck module  107  may be configured to direct heat toward the surface panel  112 . This will preferentially direct heat from the heater assembly  108  toward the surface panel  112 . A reflective surface and/or insulation may be used to direct heat away from the deck module  107 . 
     In a particular embodiment, pre-molded insulation or foamed insulation can fill the open spaces of the base member  101 , such as between the various internal cross support members of the deck module  107  or in other locations. The insulation precludes heat from the heater assembly  108  from escaping downwardly through the base member  101 , thereby allowing for more efficient heating of the surface panel  112 . The insulation can be either a low density type of foam or a high density type of foam (e.g., a structural foam) to provide additional structural support. Furthermore, a ceramic layer, can be placed between the surface panel  112  and the deck module  107 . 
     The surface panel  112  on top of the base member  101  may be made a suitable material such as a composite, polymer plastic material, vinyl, rubber, urethane, ceramic, glass reinforced plastic, concrete, or similar materials. The surface panel  112  may include visual indicators or designs (e.g. arrows, warnings, symbols, etc.), and/or graphics (text, logos, advertisements, etc.) thereon. The surface panel  112  may also include or be made of a luminescent material. 
     The surface panel  112  on top of the base member  101  may include any suitable polymer plastic material or fiber glass type material, and can includes a heat conductive polymer material and/or a heat retentive polymer material. The surface panel  112  may also include a fire retardant. The surface panel  112  may be made according to known composite manufacturing methods, such as being made as a sheet molded compound (SMC), bulk molding composite (BMC), wet compression molding, injection molding, or the like. The heat conductive polymer material allows for quick conduction of heat from the heater assembly  108  through the surface panel  112  and to the exposed surface of the surface panel  112  to permit quick melting of snow and ice. The heat retentive polymer material can retain heat within the heater assembly  108  once the electrical power to the heater assembly  108  has been turned off, thereby allowing for a longer cycle time until electrical power needs to be applied again to retain sufficient heat to melt snow and ice. It is also possible to include small stones, or the like, in the polymer material in order to preclude wearing of the surface panel  112 . It should be noted that small stones, aluminum oxide, silica sand, or the like, cannot be included if the surface panel  112  is formed via a compression molding method. It should also be noted that fillers such as the heat conductive polymer material and the heat retentive polymer material may degrade the UV resistance of the resin used to form the surface panel  112 . Accordingly, a UV resistant coating can be sprayed on top of the surface panel  112 . 
     A slip-resistant coating may be added to the surface panel  112 . The slip resistant coating can be of a non-slip monolithic walking surface. The slip-resistant coating can be resistant to the effects of ultraviolet radiation, temperature changes, and/or corrosive elements such as acids, alkalis, salts, phosphates, organic chemicals, and solvents such as mineral spirits, or gasoline. It also may be sufficiently hard to protect against abrasion, chipping, scratching, or marring. Alternatively, or additionally, an additional structure may be attached to the surface panel, or serve as the surface panel. For example, a concrete layer (e.g. paver) or tile (e.g. porcelain) can be added to the surface panel  112 . 
     Selective heating of the individual base members  101  is possible. For example, base members  101  under a roof may not be heated as much as those not under a roof that may be exposed to snow. In a modular assembly  100 , some base members  101  may be heated (sequentially or simultaneously) while other base members  101  are not heated. Selective heating of the base members  101  can also be performed based on one or more sensors embedded within and/or attached to the assembly. Alternatively or additionally, one or more sensors may be located remote from the assembly  100  for the purposes of making a determination to selectively heat base members  100 . For example, the one or more sensors can include moisture, temperature, wind, pressure, or the like. Based on information from the one or more sensors (e.g. a determination of snow, ice, or similar precipitation), a controller can be used to automatically heat one or more of the base members  101 . This can save on heating costs or can focus heating on areas prone to snow or ice. 
     Selective heating of the modular assembly  100  also is possible. The timing, duration, and extent of heating can vary for a particular modular assembly  100  placement or design. 
     Selective heating may use a controller in electrical communication with one or more heater assemblies  108 . The controller can be configured to activate, deactivate, and/or change heat settings for individual heaters in the structure assembly  100 . The controller can be activated and monitored remotely by Wi-Fi internet communications or cellular network. 
       FIG. 8  is a top perspective view of an embodiment of a modular assembly  100  and  FIG. 9  is a bottom perspective view of an embodiment of a modular assembly  100 . As can be seen in  FIG. 9 , the bottom of each of the base members  101  can include support ribs  114 . The support ribs  114  can provide strength to the base member  101  while providing reduced weight. The support ribs  114  can be in a grid pattern or in other patterns. 
     The base members  101  can include interlocking mechanisms to fix adjoining base members  101 . In one example, the interlocking mechanisms can be tongue and groove designs or other designs. For example, as seen in  FIG. 7 , the grooves  117  on the edges of the base members  101  can be used as part of an interlocking mechanism. Other shapes of the groove  117  are possible, such as a groove that is positioned over less of the edge of the base member. Multiple interlocking mechanisms also may be used on a single edge of a base member  101 , such as including multiple tongue and groove interlocking mechanisms. The interlocking mechanism, such as the groove  117  of a tongue and groove interlocking mechanism, can include a seal to provide a seamless connection between base members  101  and/or to prevent moisture or other materials from falling between the base members  101 . 
     Interlocking mechanisms, such as using one or more tongue and grooves on an edge of a base member  101 , can be configured to enable a modular assembly  100  with a surface that includes a non-constant grade. For example, the modular assembly  100  of  FIG. 3  can use interlocking mechanisms that are configured to allow for the intersections that provide the non-constant grade. The surfaces of the base members  101  also can be shaped to allow for the intersections that provide the non-constant grade. 
     Parts of the base members  101  can be made by a compression molding process or method, such as sheet molded compound (SMC) or wet compression molding. Parts of the base members  101  also can be made by pultrusion, hand lay-up, or other suitable methods including resin transfer molding (RTM), vacuum curing and filament winding, automated layup methods, or other methods. 
     Embodiments of the modular assembly disclosed herein can be assembled in the field or prefabricated. A prefabricated modular assembly may the provided with multiple base members attached to a support member. Thus, a prefabricated base member unit may be provided. 
       FIG. 10  is a view of an embodiment of a modular assembly  100  that has been assembled. As seen in  FIG. 10 , the modular assembly  100  changes elevation and includes a railing  122  and a textured (e.g. tactile) surface  104 . The textured surface  104  may be warning tiles. Additional tiles (e.g., armored tiles) may be positioned at the platform edge. In an embodiment, no excavation, wood header, backfilling, or maintenance related to the wood header or asphalt is required. Construction time may be faster than traditional techniques and a snow melt system can be integrated into some or all of the platform. 
       FIG. 11  is an exploded view of a modular assembly  100  on helical piles  103 . Helical piles  103  enable a wide range of soil and load applications. Load capacity can be based on torque achieved at installation. An optional height adjustable bearing plate can be included to allow flexibility. For example, a portion of the helical pile  103 , and or the mounting bracket  124  may be threaded for the purposes of adjusting the height of the assembly  100 . 
       FIGS. 12-15  illustrate an exemplary mounting bracket  124  and leveling mechanism  125 . The mounting bracket  124  can be embodied as a clamp, which fastens a lower support structure  126  to the support member  105 . As an example, the mounting bracket  124  can clamp a metal plate  127  of a lower support structure  126 , such as a helical pile and/or an I-beam, to the support member  105 . 
     A leveling mechanism  125  can be provided to account for differences in height between the lower support structure (e.g. helical pile) and the support members  105  and/or I-beam. In one example, the leveling mechanism  125  is a threaded connection element of a bearing plate, which allows for in-field adjustment of the height of the helical pile. 
       FIGS. 16-17  illustrate installation of a base member to produce a modular assembly  100 . A plurality of base members  101  can be positioned on support members  105 . Each of the plurality of support members  105  can extend across the plurality of base members  101  and be disposed within the channels  106  of the plurality of base members  101 . The base members  101  may be fixed to the support members  105 , for example, via fasteners (not shown) to produce a base member unit  128 . Each base member unit  128  can be attached to a lower support structure  126 , such as a helical pile or an I-beam, for example, by a mounting bracket  124 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 17 , each base member unit  128  can include one or more alignment plates  129  in order to mechanically join and/or align a base member unit  128  to an adjacent base member unit  128 . The alignment plate  129  can form a joint, for example, a shiplap joint. It is alternatively contemplated that adjoining base member units  128  not be mechanically joined, or be fastened together. 
       FIG. 18  illustrates the process of accessing a heater assembly  108  and its related components. Specifically, the surface panel  112  may be removed from the deck module  107 . The heater assembly  108 , electric enclosure  110 , and power cable  111  can be accessed for installation of the heater positioned between the surface panel  112  and the deck module  107 . 
       FIGS. 19-20  illustrates the modular assembly  100  receiving a fastened structural element  130 , such as a railing connection. According to an embodiment the structural element  130  can be fastened to the support members  105  through the deck module  107 . For example, fasteners  131  can pass through apertures  132  in the deck module  107  to fasten the structural element  130  (railing) to the modular assembly  100 . The structural element  130  can include a receiving plate  133 , including apertures  134 , for affixing the structural element  130  to the modular assembly  100 . The support member  105  may directly receive the fasteners  131 , for example, via a support member receiving plate  135 . The support member  105  may also support other structural elements, such as wiring raceway  109 , which can be fastened or affixed to a bottom portion of the support member  105 . Other examples of fastened elements  130  can include structures or fixtures, such as posts, signage, windbreaks, and the like. 
       FIG. 21  illustrates another embodiment of a mounting bracket  124  and leveling mechanism  125 . The mounting bracket  124  can include a jaw  136  and a fastener  137 . The jaw  136  can have a fulcrum  138  and a bracket  139 . The space between the bracket  139  and the support member  105  can define a space for clamping the support member  105  to a metal plate  127  of a lower support structure  126 . As an example, the metal plate  127  can be an upper flange of an I-beam or a place attached to a pile. The jaw  136  can be made of a galvanized metal, and be sized 6″×4″× 3/16″. The fastener  137  can be a stainless steel epoxy coated bolt that extends from the bracket  139  of the jaw  136  through the support member  105 . A bearing pad  140 , such as a ⅛″ neoprene bearing pad, can be positioned between the metal plate  127  and the support member  105 . 
       FIGS. 22 a   - 22 C provide additional views of a leveling mechanism  125  according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.  FIG. 22 a    is a side view of a leveling mechanism  125 , which includes an adjustment feature  141  for adjusting the height and position of an upper support surface  142  relative to a lower support surface  143 . In one example, the lower support surface  143  is fixed to a lower support structure  126  (e.g. by welding to a pile, post, or other support surface) and the upper support surface  142  can be adjusted by adjusting one or more adjustment features of the leveling mechanism. The one or more adjustment features  141  may include a plurality of mechanical elements, such as fasteners, which extend between the upper support surface  142  and the lower support surface  143 . In one particular embodiment, the plurality of mechanical elements may be threaded bolts  144 . The vertical distance between the upper support surface  142  and the lower support surface  143  can be adjusted by moving a support element  145  of the adjustment features  141  that support the upper support surface  142  and lower support surface  143 . In one example, the support element  145  is a threaded nut that threadably attaches to a threaded base  146  of a fastener  144 . Rotating the nuts can move the nuts relative to the base to adjust the vertical position of the support surface being supported by the nut. Additional fasteners  147  can be provided on the upper support surface  142  for fastening the base members to the lower support structure. For example, the upper support surface  142  may be fastened to an I-beam that is, in turn, clamped to a mounting bracket  124  of the assembly as previously described. 
       FIGS. 22 b -22 c    are top views of an exemplary upper support surface  142  and lower support surface  143 , which can be embodied as plates having a plurality of apertures  148 . The apertures  148  may receive the plurality of mechanical elements (e.g. bolts  144 ). The apertures  148  may be elongated (e.g. aperture  148   a ) to allow a mechanical element to move relative to the support surface to adjust a horizontal position of the support surface. Similarly, the apertures  148  may be elongated and curved (e.g. aperture  148   b ) for the purposes rotating the support surface relative to the mechanical element. In the depicted examples, the lower support surface  143  includes elongated apertures  148   a  and the upper support surface  142  includes elongated and curved apertures  148   b . The upper support surface  142  and lower support surface  143  may be plates, and be made of a metal. The upper support surface  142  and lower support surface  143  may be made of different sized and/or shaped plates. In one particular example, the upper support surface  142  is a 15.5″×11″×¾″ metal plate and the lower support surface  143  is a 15.5″×15.5″×¾″ metal plate. 
     The leveling mechanism  125  may be used to accommodate spatial differences between the lower support structure  126  (e.g. helical pile) and the support members  105  and/or I-beam. For example, the leveling mechanism  125  may be used to accommodate spatial differences across the longitudinal axis X, lateral axis Y, and/or vertical axis Z. The leveling mechanism  125  may also be used to accommodate rotational differences (e.g. yaw) between the lower support structure  126  and the support members  105 . This can be particularly advantageous for situations where the lower support structure  126  cannot precisely be positioned to an acceptable level of accuracy. For example, piles (e.g. a helical pile) can quickly and efficiently produce a lower support structure  126 , but positional accuracy of the piles can be difficult to ensure in the field. The leveling mechanisms  125  described herein can accommodate for spatial inaccuracies in an efficient manner. For example, the leveling mechanisms  125  can be adjusted quickly and easily on-site, without the need for more costly or difficult assembly procedures. 
       FIG. 23  is a cross-sectional view of a modular assembly  100  where adjoining base members  101  are angled relative to one another to adjust the pitch of a platform created by the base members. Depending on the ultimate application of the modular assembly  100 , it may be desired to adjust the pitch so that portions of the platform meet certain height or positional requirements. For example, the pitch may need to be adjusted to meet a train platform crossing, to meet an adjoining structure, or the like. With reference to  FIG. 23 , the angle of a fastened support member (e.g. support member  105  and/or I-beam  148 ) can be adjusted by adjusting fasteners  147  and/or shimming (e.g. with a bearing pad). It is also contemplated that an upper support surface  142  can be angled (not shown) to accommodate an angled support member  105  and/or I-beam  148 . 
       FIG. 23  also shows a modular assembly  100  having a base members  101  that include a tactile surface panel  112 , a heater assembly  108 , a power cable  111  for powering the heater assembly  108 , and a deck module  107 . Each deck module  107  is fastened to a support member  105  via fasteners  149 . An additional support angle  150  can be provided to support a rib  114  of the deck module  107  relative to the support member  105 . A mounting bracket  124  can clamp the support member  105  to a lower support structure, such as an I-beam  148 . In this way, a mechanical connection can be made without welding and/or without a fastener that extends through the lower support structure. A bearing pad  140  may be provided between the I-beam  148  and the support member  105 . A retainer clamp  151  can be provided to temporarily retain the support member  105  relative to the I-beam  148  before the mounting bracket  124  is clamped into position. The retainer clamp  151  can thereby avoid sliding of the support member  105  relative to the I-beam  148 . This can be useful during assembly where the base members  101  are not level (e.g. pitched). 
     The I-beam  148  can be fastened via fasteners  147  to the upper support surface  142  of a leveling mechanism  125 . The leveling mechanism can include a lower support surface  143  fixed (e.g. via welding) to a lower support structure  126 . The lower support structure can include a pile, such a 4″ in diameter pier. 
       FIG. 24  is a cross-sectional view of a modular assembly  100 , including a plurality of base member units  128  respectively supported by support structures  126 . Each adjacent base member unit  128  may be mechanically interlocked with one another, for example, by adjoining respective alignment plates  129 . The alignment plates  129  may be fixed to the support member  105  an can produce a mechanical lock that can hold adjacent base members  101  relative to one another. Although the alignment plates  129  can be additionally fastened or welded to one another, it is contemplated that the alignment plates  129  can mate with one another without fastening or welding. 
       FIGS. 25 a -25 b    illustrate an above-surface structural element  130  (e.g. structure, fixture, post, signage, or the like) affixed to the modular assembly  100 . The structural element  130  can include a vertical structure  152 , and a base plate  153 . The base plate  153  can be fastened through a surface panel  112  and deck module  107  to a lower support structure  155  via fasteners  156 . A layer of fiberglass  155  and/or a sealant  156  can be applied between the base plate  153  and the surface panel  112 . The lower support structure  155  can be affixed to an I-beam and/or support member  105  (not shown), for example via fasteners  157 . 
       FIG. 26  depicts a modular assembly  100  with exemplary above-surface structural elements  130 . Specifically, the modular assembly  100  includes a post  158  and a windbreak  159 . The post  158  can be used to hold lighting, sensors, signage, electrical panels, or the like. In one particular example, the post  158  can include a sensor array (not shown) with weather sensors (e.g. wind, temperature, moisture) and an electrical panel  160 . The sensor array can be used to control a heater assembly (not shown) disposed in the modular assembly  100  as previously described. 
       FIG. 27  depicts a method of installing a modular assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The method  300  includes providing  310  a plurality of base members made of a plastic composite material, each base member including a top surface and a bottom surface opposite of the top surface, the bottom surface defining channels. A plurality of support members can be provided  320 , each of the plurality of support members extending across the plurality of base members and disposed within the channels of the plurality of base members. A metal plate of a lower support structure can be clamped  330  to the support members with a mounting bracket to form a horizontal platform for traffic. 
     Variations in design are possible due to the flexibility and relative low cost of tooling used in the manufacturing process. Panel size, length, width, thickness, color, ribbing, and surface profiles can be modified to suit specific project requirements. Drainage details also can be modified to suit specific project requirements. 
     The embodiments of the modular assembly disclosed herein can solve the problem of durability and premature breakdown of concrete and wood platforms due to degradation. The light weight of the modular assembly facilitates ease of installation in areas which have difficult access and work windows. The modular assembly also solves the problem of dealing with heavy concrete platforms which necessitate the use of costly foundations and steel support systems. These benefits apply to both new and retrofit construction requirements. Reduced maintenance and long life cycles are achieved. The modular assembly can be assembled faster than prior art platforms, and can avoid or significantly reduce welding of component parts. 
     Although the present disclosure has been described with respect to one or more particular embodiments, it will be understood that other embodiments of the present disclosure may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.