Extendable support structures

Abstract

Various types of extendable support structures provide a lateral dimension that is defined by at least one lazy tong, and the longitudinal dimension is variable by extension and retraction of the at least one lazy tong. The extendable structure may include a plurality of adjacent and attached lazy tongs that are capable of supporting a significant load through the interconnection of the adjacent lazy tongs forming the structure. The extendable structure may be fully retracted to minimize the longitudinal dimension and thereby provide a compact structure, such as one that can be easily transported or stored. The extendable structure may be extended to a length as required for a particular purpose and limited to a maximum longitudinal dimension when the structure is being used to support a load. As such the various types of extendable support structures may be used in many scenarios, such as for providing a loading ramp, bridge, walkway, or working surface.

1 - 16 . (canceled)  
   
   
       17 . An extendable support structure, comprising at least one lazy tong providing a lateral dimension and comprising non-linear members, wherein the at least one lazy tong extends to provide a variable longitudinal dimension, and wherein a curvature is present on the non-linear members that limits the longitudinal extension to a maximum longitudinal dimension by abutting another member of the at least one lazy tong when the at least one lazy tong is extended.  
   
   
       18 . The extendable support structure of  claim 17 , further comprising adjacent lazy tongs disposed adjacently to the at least one lazy tong to provide the lateral dimension, and wherein the adjacent lazy tongs and at least one lazy tong are fixed together laterally at at least one point.  
   
   
       19 . The extendable support structure of  claim 17 , wherein a curvature is present on both ends of each non-linear member of the at least one lazy tong.  
   
   
       20 . The extendable support structure of  claim 18 , wherein non-linear members of the adjacent lazy tongs provide an integral pin and a receptacle and wherein the adjacent lazy tongs are connected by an integral pin of one non-linear member of one lazy tong being disposed within a receptacle of one non-linear member of an adjacent lazy tong.  
   
   
       21 . The extendable support structure of  claim 18 , wherein non-linear members of the adjacent lazy tongs are connected by pins extending through the non-linear members in the lateral dimension.  
   
   
       22 - 29 . (canceled)