S-4P RECTANGULAR (Patent Pending)

Rectangular section truss which can optionally deploy flat panels which fold within the truss members. The panel edges are the folding chords. The panels fold and unfold in a "z-fold" manner. Opposite pairs of chords fold inward. These in-folding chords and the orthogonal joints to which they are connected give the truss its stable synchronous behavior. For platform applications the panels form the platform decking and the truss sides are the guard rails. For area platforms, the truss sides are below the panels; guard rails can be added. Generically, the panels can have other functions such as structural containment, electronics mounting, etc.

For use as a beam, column, or cantilever (without panels), the chords can be either folding struts, tension cables, or manually-added struts. Practical sizes range from 18” x 36” to 48” x 96” , with lengths to 100 ft, and safe load capacities dependent on dimensions and member construction.

The S-4P is derived from the S-1 truss by configuring it as an S-4 and replacing the vertex chords with equivalent folding flat panels and relocating the diagonals.

With the panels as shown the truss is well suited as a work platform, bridge, catwalk, ramp, or solar panel deployer.

In addition to material and fabrication options, there are many configuration and feature options relative to:

•  Chord type, handrails

•  Sizing - width and lengths

•  Floor panel surface and ladder steps

•  End frames if needed

•  Deploy methods

•  Transport tie-downs

•  Electrical cabling integration