Patent ID: 8302734

Claim:
A retractable platform, comprising: an elevated rooftop telecommunications unit that securely stores telecommunications equipment in a fixed location; a base coupled to the elevated telecommunications unit via a rotatable hinge, the base configured to transition between an open position where the base is substantially horizontal and a closed position where the base is substantial vertical wherein each side of the base extends laterally beyond each side of the telecommunications unit; a biasing device coupled between the base and the elevated telecommunications unit to counteract gravitational forces during the transition; an access component coupled to the base to enable user access to the base from an elevation below the elevated telecommunications unit; a guard rail configured around the perimeter of the base, a first portion of the guard rail configured to fold against the base when the base is in the closed position and second portions of the guard rail being fixed such that the second portions do not fold against the base when the base is in the closed position; to the sides of the base extending laterally beyond each side of the telecommunications device such that the second portions extend outward and proximate each side of the telecommunications unit when the base is in the closed position causing the telecommunication unit to be situated at least partially between the second portions; and a support member coupled to the base to support the base in the open position.