CN1361670A - Portable seat and locking device for the same - Google Patents

Abstract

A portable seat raising system includes multiple raising platforms, each comprising a flat plate and a supporting frame. The flat plate and the frame are provided with multiple horizontal surfaces at different heights arranged in a raised structure. Portable theater seats can be mounted on the flat plate and include a locking device and a support member mounted on the frame, which can be used to move and secure the theater seats to the platform. The locking device includes a support member and a linkage that automatically extends around the rear of the platform deck and automatically locks the theater seat mounting plate when it is inserted into the locking device.

Description

Portable seat and locking device for the same

technical field

This invention relates to portable seat elevation systems, and more particularly to systems having a locking mechanism for securing portable theater-style seats to a support platform.

Background technique

Multipurpose facilities such as amphitheatres, stadiums, auditoriums, and similar venues can be used for a variety of events requiring the use of different seating arrangements. Such facilities typically have permanently installed theater-style seating having a fixed backrest and pivoting seat portion with armrests. As event ticket prices become more expensive, it is ideal to have high-quality seating that provides maximum value to attendees rather than less comfortable seating such as folding chairs or benches.

To date, the only portable seats available are benches or folding chairs. Theater-style seating is limited to fixed installations, usually installed in permanent vertical walls in each row, as seating in stadiums or auditoriums is raised. Public venues that may require portable seating are amphitheaters for events as diverse as hockey games, basketball games, and concerts. Part of the area occupied by a large hockey rink constructed for hockey games can be used for seating during other events. This seat is placed on a riser and is usually close to the stage or field. Locations close to the stage or court are often highly sought-after and command high prices. However, the seating options are usually just benches or folding chairs. As a result, buyers pay a premium for an uncomfortable seat that is not in a riser configuration and does not allow the buyer to have a good line of sight.

Portable seating coupled with a portable raised platform or deck presents a design challenge since theater style seating is typically configured to be mounted on a vertical plane in the rear. In order to create more space in the aisle while maintaining the comfort of the audience, and to provide more seating in a smaller space, theater-type seating usually does not have a support that protrudes forward, such as the folding chair. front outriggers. Supporting theater style seating on portable platforms and risers presents limitations of spacing and rails for securing the seating. Providing a locking device to the portable riser is difficult as the usefulness of the portable platform is reduced if there are several permanent fixtures protruding above the surface of the slab. Also, for safety reasons, the seats must be secured so they do not fall over the back of the platform as would happen with the rear legs of a standard folding chair. Therefore, the seat should be locked in place.

The mechanism provided to lock the portable platform can create some spacer barriers that secure the seat to the rear of the platform. Usually a side wall projecting upwardly behind a portion of the portable platform. It is preferable to have the platforms close to the side walls so that less space is required and the seats at the rear of each platform panel provide walkways in front of each row of seats. However, the locking mechanism at the rear of the tablet faces space constraints. Additionally, in a raised configuration, each row of seats must be placed next to each other. Consequently, there is typically little or no space between the rear of one row of seats and the front of the next row of seats. Although the difference in height of the plates creates an opening, the spacing is too narrow, further constraining the placement design of any locking device.

The portability of such chairs and seating structures creates other problems. Tablets and platforms should be easily carried and folded for storage, and provide liftable adjustments. Preferably, the system allows the platform to be used for other purposes and the locking mechanism can be completely removed from the platform. Locking and securing must provide sufficient stability for spectators to feel comfortable in the seat. The locking system should also be easily inserted and removed. However, the locking system should be essentially self-guiding and easily actuatable and detachable when locking to the rear of a panel where the passage is narrow. The locking system should also automatically lock the platform when the seat is in place so accidental loosening of the locking system cannot occur and the seat is secured.

Locating the locking means within the space constraints of the riser structure is difficult since the locking must generally be accomplished on the underside of the deck or frame associated with the portable platform. This positioning is difficult because the positioning of the retainer to engage the underside of the tablet must be done remotely. Additionally, once such engagement is achieved, disengaging and withdrawing the locking device for removal within the space constraints of the riser structure also presents design issues. If the locking mechanism jams or snags during removal, it can be difficult to troubleshoot and correct withdrawal and removal problems.

It can thus be seen that there is a need for a new and improved portable seating system. This system shall support theater style seating in a raised structure. This system shall allow complete removal of the locking and support system and seat from the portable platform of the raising device. This system should be easily actuatable and provide a secure connection and support for the seat. The locking and support system should also be easily operable in the confined spaces associated with elevated structures. The present invention addresses these and other problems associated with providing quality portable seating.

Contents of the invention

The present invention is directed to a portable seating and riser system, and more particularly to a rising system for supporting removable theater style seating. Portable seating can be used where permanent theater seating is not available, but comfortable seating is required for expensive ticket prices.

The system of the present invention has a raised structure in which adjacent portable platforms are placed so that the front seats are lower than the rear seats. When not in use, the portable platform is preferably folded into a storage configuration for more compact storage. The platforms also support transition slabs configured in an end-to-end configuration between the platforms with support frames. A transition plate is supported at each end of the platform. The system is lighter and more compact due to the removal of the frame below the transition plate.

Theater-style seating is seating provided with frame members at the sides and a fixed backrest. A typical cushioned seat section pivots between an in-use position and a raised position to provide a larger walkway. Seats are generally constructed to fit into a rear vertical wall and do not require forwardly extending legs for support. Mounting the seat on the rear vertical surface presents some design difficulties. Portable platforms have a horizontal plate, but no vertical mounting surface. In addition, the usefulness of the portable platform would be compromised if the platform were provided with a vertical surface projecting upward from the tablet. Therefore, a portable locking system is used to removably mount the seat on the platform at the rear edge of the platform deck.

The locking system includes a base that defines a vertical slot that can be used to accept a theater seating mounting plate or rod. Theater seating can be connected and placed as a single seat, or as a unit of connected seats. Preferably a locking means is provided for each outermost leg portion of the frame, which leg projects rearwardly from the seating unit.

A first embodiment of the locking mechanism includes a retainer mounted on a linkage extending behind and below the deck and platform frame. A retaining member hooks under the bottom of the frame to secure the locking device to the portable platform. The linkage includes an actuator projecting forwardly from the base and connected to an intermediate link projecting downwardly for connection to the retainer. The actuator includes two bends, the rear section of which is angled downward to allow it to rotate about the rear edge of the plate. The retainer is also pivotally mounted to a cover plate that extends upwardly to the rear of the pivotally connected base. A lock that slides back so that it extends slightly past the rear edge of the slab to fit into tighter gaps from the rear without requiring a worker to go to the rear to actuate or secure the lock. The linkage is loaded and constructed so that when the pivot of the rear of the sliding base extends slightly beyond the rear edge of the panel, the retaining member extends downwardly below the frame and the hook extends forwardly past the leading edge of the frame. Once the theater seat mounting plate is inserted into the slot in the base, the actuating member is pushed downwards and pivots its rear up, thereby raising the link connected to the holder and pulling it upwards Hold members to secure the frame. Locks automatically without tools.

To remove the locking mechanism, simply slide the theater seat forward so that it disengages from the base. The weight of the linkage moves the retainer downwardly away from the frame, toward a disengaged position, but still extending below the frame. Slide the lock forward so that the linkage extends back slightly so that the hook portion of the retainer does not catch on the bottom of the frame. The hook member is pulled up by pushing the actuator downward so that it slides over the trailing edge of the slab without getting stuck. This will allow for easy insertion and removal of the locking device without snagging on the edge of the frame or tablet and without requiring any tools.

The second embodiment of the seat lock engages the frame of the next taller platform deck instead of the frame below the seat lock. The second locking device includes a base having a second member slidably mounted vertically to the base. Extending from the rear of the base is a hook configured to extend and engage below the bottom of the frame behind the locking means of the adjacent upper deck or a rear rail. The hook rotates about the base and moves up or down as the second member is raised or lowered. As the second member is raised, the hook is lowered, the flange of which extends under the frame adjacent to the plate. When the second member is lowered, the hook pivots upward to engage the frame.

The second seat lock also includes a stop mounted on the second member, the lock engaging the base when the stop is engaged. The stop prevents lifting of the second member and thus prevents disengagement of the hook from the frame. The second locking device includes an actuating means that lifts the second member. The lifting tool engages the slot on the front of the second member and utilizes a mechanical advantage to conveniently raise the second member thereby lowering the hook so that the locking device can be slid or pulled under the frame. The base includes a plurality of vertically spaced mounting holes. Corresponding to the rise between the platform boards, a hook may be mounted in one of said several holes. The structure adjusts the space of the hook to accommodate different elevations.

These novel features and numerous other advantages are the characteristics of the invention which are pointed out with particularity in the claims hereinafter appended. However, for a better understanding of the invention, its advantages and the objects attained by its use, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings, which form a further part of this specification, and to the accompanying descriptive part which shows and describes a comparative aspect of the invention. good example.

Description of drawings

Referring now to the drawings, where like references and numerals indicate corresponding structures:

Figure 1 shows an end view of a portable seat lift system in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

Figure 2 shows a front view of the seat lift system shown in Figure 1;

Figure 3 shows a rear view of the locking device used in the system shown in Figure 1 for mounting theater seating to a portable platform;

Figure 4 shows a side view of the locking device shown in Figure 3, which is located on the top surface of the platform prior to connection;

Fig. 5 shows a side view of the locking device shown in Fig. 3, the locking device being connected to the retaining member aligned with the platform frame;

Figure 6 shows a side view of the locking device shown in Figure 3 in the locked position connected to the platform and supporting the theater seats;

Figure 7 shows a side view of the locking device shown in Figure 3, the locking device in the disengaged position can be used to disassemble the locking device;

Figure 8 shows a front view of the seat mounting plate;

Figure 9 shows a detailed view of a transition plate supported on an adjacent platform;

Figure 10 shows a top view of a typical seat lift arrangement in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

Figure 11 shows a side view of a second embodiment of a seat raising device and seat locking device in accordance with the principles of the present invention;

Figure 12 shows a side view of a second embodiment of a seat locking device in accordance with the principles of the present invention with the lifting tool removed and the locking device engaged with the platform;

Figure 13 shows a side view of the seat locking device shown in Figure 12 with the lifting tool lowered and the locking device engaged with the platform;

Figure 14 shows a partially disassembled side view of the seat locking device shown in Figure 12, actuating the lifting tool and positioning the locking device to engage and lock to the platform;

Figure 15 shows a partially disassembled side view of the seat locking device shown in Figure 12, with the lifting tool actuated so that insertion of the locking device precedes engagement of the locking device with the platform;

Figure 16 shows a side view of the seat locking device shown in Figure 12 adjusted to engage a riser having a first rise between the decks;

Figure 17 shows a side view of the seat locking device shown in Figure 12 adjusted to engage a riser having a second rise between the platform boards, whereby said second increase is greater than said first increase;

Figure 18 shows a side view of the seat locking device shown in Figure 12, adjusted to engage a riser having a third rise between the platform boards, whereby said third increase is greater than said second increase;

Figure 19 shows a side view of the seat locking device shown in Figure 12, adjusted to engage a riser having a fourth rise between the platform boards, so that said fourth rise is greater than said third rise;

Figure 20 shows a top view of a seat mounting bar for the theater seating shown in Figure 11;

Figure 21 shows a perspective view of a lifting tool for the seat locking device shown in Figure 12;

FIG. 22 shows a perspective view of the partially removed side rail mount for the seat lift arrangement shown in FIG. 10 .

Detailed ways

Please refer now to the drawings, especially FIGS. 1 and 11 . A portable booster seating system shown in the drawings is indicated generally at 20 . System 20 includes portable platforms 22 , 24 , 26 and 28 of varying heights to form a raised system for supporting theater style seating 30 . The portable platforms 22, 24, 26 and 28 and the removable seats 30 form a portable system 20 with rows of raised theater seats 30 that provide enhanced visibility and improved comfort. For purposes of illustration, only platform 22 has been described, however similar structures can be found on platforms 24, 26 and 28 at other heights. Platform 22 includes a top panel 50 supported on a frame 52 for collapsible storage, such as are well known in the art. Folding of the frame can actuate the legs 54 and fold the underside of the panel 50 into the storage position. The various platforms 22, 24, 26 and 28 are secured to adjacent platforms with interlocking members 64 and 66, such as the interlocking members shown in FIG. 9 for transition panels.

System 20 is flexible and can be modified to accommodate different widths and different numbers of rows. A typical structure is shown in FIG. 10 . Platforms or folded risers are alternately arranged and support transition slabs between platforms. The seats are arranged with a walkway that provides easy access to each seat.

Referring now to FIG. 2 , the seat lift system 20 also includes a transition plate 60 supported on a frame 62 for extending the width of the riser. Both ends of the transition plate 60 are connected end-to-end to a single platform 22 so as to form an elongated platform surface. Referring to FIG. 9 , plate 60 is secured by interlocking members 64 and 66 . This arrangement does not require legs 54 below each transition plate 60 to create an extended deck surface. The system saves money, is easier to transport and requires less storage space.

Referring again to Figures 1 and 2, theater seating 30 typically combines a number of seats into a unit mounted on a platform. Permanent theater seating is often installed on the vertical plane behind the theater seating in stadiums or amphitheatres. The seating unit includes a frame 32 supporting a pivoting seat 34 having a backrest 36 as a cushion. Extending from either side of the seat 34 and backrest 36 are armrests 38 which may be shared between adjacent seats. The seat 34 is usually spring loaded or loaded so that it is angled slightly upwards and must be turned about a pivot to push the seat down into the use position. The weight of the seat occupant generally keeps the seat 34 in the lowered position. Extending downwardly and rearwardly from the frame 32 is a leg 42 which includes a vertically extending mounting rod or plate which automatically actuates the first embodiment described below. lock in.

As shown in FIG. 8, the mounting plate 44 may include a locator or retainer. For example a ball detent 46 which engages a recess 48 formed in the seat frame holds the mounting plate 44 in a lowered or raised position. Although theater seating 30 has been generally described, other configurations are possible within the principles of the invention.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3-7 , a first embodiment of a seat locking device 100 is configured to support a seat 30 and mount to the platform 22 . The locking device 100 can be permanently attached to the leg 42 or mounting bar of the seat with a slide actuator or a separate actuator. The locking device 100 includes a base 102 and a seat support 104 forming a slot 106 that receives the mounting plate 44 that actuates the locking device 100 and automatically secures the platform 22 . In a preferred embodiment, the seat support 104 has recesses or holes 48 that pass through the seat support 104 on either side of the slot 106 and that accommodate the detents 46 and mount the plate 44. stay at a certain height. A linkage is indicated generally at 108 which provides the actuation force and locks the frame 52 at the rear edge of the platform 22 .

The linkage 108 for the locking device 100 includes an actuation member 110 having a first portion 112 accessible from the front of the locking device 100 and extending upwardly at an angle to facilitate grasping and actuating the portion. The first section 112 is connected to an intermediate section 114 which extends rearwardly to a third section 116 . The third portion 116 is hingedly connected to the pivot 150 at the intermediate link 120 . Intermediate link 120 includes a slight bend that extends downwardly to the rear of panel 50 and frame 52 and is hingedly connected to retainer 140 at second pivot 152 . The holder 140 has a flange portion 142 forming a receiving portion contoured to receive the lower portion of the platform frame 52 . The retainer 140 is also connected to a cover member 130 at a third pivot 154 . Cover member 130 includes a curved mating surface 132 configured to assist and hold the linkage in place to automatically lock and unlock when the locking device is positioned and actuated for removal . At a top end, projecting forwardly is a right-angled portion 134 including a fourth pivot 156 hingedly connected to the rear of the base 102 .

To assemble the raised seating system 20, as shown in FIG. 1, the raised platforms 22, 24, 26 and 28 are opened and placed in a raised configuration. As shown in FIG. 2 , according to the sitting requirements, a transition plate 60 can be added. Although only two platforms 22 and transition panels 60 are shown, additional transition panels 60 and platforms 22 are added to form an enlarged and extended seat riser system such as that shown in FIG. 10 . Adjacent platforms 22, 24, 26 and 28 may be interconnected to form a riser unit. Once the platforms are upright, the locking devices 100 will be placed on the different platforms and spaced apart to accommodate the mounting plates 44 from the seats 30 . If the locking device 100 were permanently attached as part of the leg 42 or on the mounting rod 160, the seating unit 30 attached to the locking device 100 would be placed in the position shown in FIG. 4 . The seat 30 is provided in units having a plurality of seats, each seat unit having two seat locking devices 100 . To place the locking device 100, the locking device is positioned using the base on top of the plate 50 shown in FIG. When the locking device is placed in this position, the locking device can be slid back until the linkage 108 extends downwardly and the retainer 140 aligns itself in the position shown in FIG. 5 . Referring again to FIG. 4 , the locking device 100 is provided with a rearwardly protruding linkage, and makes the actuator 110 subject to gravity so that its forward portion is in a raised position. The intermediate link 120 forces a retainer 140 with a flange 142 downwards.

As the locking device 100 slides rearwardly to the position shown in FIG. 5 , the intermediate link 120 and cover plate 130 protrude downwardly and slightly rearwardly. Due to the bend in the intermediate link 120 and the mating surface 132, only slightly more than 2 inches of clearance is required between the rear of the plate 50 and the vertical wall or other platform 24 used to operate the linkage 108. The linkage 108 is carried and configured so that when pushed fully rearward, a retainer 140 with a forwardly projecting flange extends past the leading edge of the frame 52 . When the first pivot 150 is at the rear of the deck 50 , the actuator 110 rests on the rear edge of the deck 50 on the third portion 116 . This will cause the actuator 110 to extend upwardly, with the intermediate portion 114 spaced from the base 102 of the locking device.

As shown in FIG. 5 , when the locking device 100 is positioned, it receives the mounting plate 44 from the seat 30 and automatically secures the seat to the frame 52 . As shown in FIG. 6 , when the mounting plate 44 is lowered into the groove 106 , the plate 44 is in contact with the top surface of the actuator 110 , and the bottom edge of the plate 44 is located at the lower end of the groove 106 . This action rotates the actuator link 110 about the trailing edge of the plate 50 , thereby raising the first pivot 150 . Raising the first pivot 150 will upwardly pull the intermediate link 120, thereby pulling the second pivot 152 upward and raising the retainer 140 so that the flange 142 extends in front of and around the frame member 52 and locks The device engages the platform 22 . In this position, as shown in FIG. 6 , the linkage 108 is secured in the locked position so that the locking device 100 cannot be disassembled. The seat 30 is positioned such that the center of gravity of the seat occupant and the seat is in front of the base 102 of the locking device. However, when the locking device 100 is secured to the rear, the linkage 108 and the retainer 140 secured to the frame 52 neutralize any forward torque. Seat 30 is conveniently engaged with locking device 100 when mounting plate 44 simply slides down into slot 106 and automatically engages the top surface of actuator 110 without any tools.

When removing the seat 30 and locking device 100, the seat unit 30 can be easily disengaged from the locking device by pulling the seat 30 directly upwards thereby causing the mounting plate 44 to slide out of the slot 106. When the protrusion 46 disengages from the top of the actuator 110 , the loaded locking device 100 and linkage 108 return to the position shown in FIG. 5 . In this position, the retainer 140 is disengaged from the front of the frame member 52 . By simply pulling the entire locking device 100 forward, the linkage 108 will rotate about the upper rear corner of the plate 50 and the cover plate abutment surface 132 moves the bottom of the cover plate 130 and retainer 140 upward and rearward. However, as the flange 142 extends downwardly, the linkage continues to pull the locking mechanism forward, causing the flange 140 to snap to the rear of the plate 50 . To avoid jamming, when the retainer 140 is partially raised behind the frame 52, pulling the actuator 110 forward may cause the intermediate link 120 to pull the forward portion of the retainer 140 forward and upward. As shown in Figure 7, this will cause the flange 142 to extend upwardly behind the abutment surface 132, so that the locking device 100 moves further forward, bearing the linkage 108 on the abutment surface 132, and simultaneously pulls up on the retainer 140 to fit the cover plate 130 and separate from the rear edge of the plate 50 .

The locking device 100 can simply be pulled forward or raised. The locking device 100 can be positioned so that it can receive the seat 30 within seconds, and can also be pulled off the rear of the platform 22 within seconds without the use of any tools. The locking device 100 is identically connected to the elevating system plates at multiple different elevating places between the plates 50 . In addition, the positioning of the raised platform typically places side walls or other platforms near the rear of the panel and extends above the panel 50 . This prevents easy entry and exit, thereby preventing workers from extending their hands down the back of the platform to access any type of securing mechanism. However, the present invention does not require such proximity. The present invention also allows the operator to grasp the linkage with the front of the actuator 110 fully exposed and easily accessible. Additionally, the locking device 100 may automatically engage when the seat 30 is inserted into the locking device 100 . The locking device 100 can also operate in relatively tight spaces where minimal rearward clearance is required.

Referring now to FIG. 11 , there is shown a seat raising system 20 with a seat 30 mounted on a locking device 200 of a second embodiment. The locking device 200 is similar to the locking device 100 and supports the seat 30 locked on a plate 50 in front of the seat 30 . However, please compare FIGS. 1 and 11 , the locking device 200 is locked to the frame 52 of the panel 50 immediately behind the seat 30 , rather than to the frame 52 of the panel 50 below the seat 30 . As shown in FIG. 22 , a guard rail 170 includes a frame member that locks the last row of seats 30 in the uppermost panel 28 when the locking device 200 is locked at the rear. For security and safety reasons, such risers typically include a guard rail 170 . Accommodating the locking device 200 does not result in additional modifications and costs.

Referring now to FIG. 12 , the locking device 200 includes a base 202 that is placed at the rear of a deck 50 and that is pushed up against the next deck 50 and engages the frame 52 of the adjacent higher deck 50 . The base 202 includes a forwardly projecting bottom and a raised portion at the rear, the bottom sloping slightly upward and rearward. A bottom friction pad 250 is mounted on the underside of the base 202 to slide more easily on the surface of the deck 50, which typically has a non-slip surface. A hook member 204 extends from the rear of the base 202 and is pivotally mounted about a hinge or pivot location 212 . The vertical position of the hooks 204 can be adjusted to accommodate different elevations between platform decks 50 as described below. A second movable link 206 is slidably mounted to the base 202 and moves between a lowered position shown in FIG. 12 and a raised position shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 . A tool 300 is used to lift the second member 206 and actuate the hook 204 by pivoting away from the upper sloped surface of the base 202 . As shown in Figures 12, 13 and 20, a stop 208 locks the second member 206 in place. The stop 208 pivots about a pivot 242 mounted on the second member 206 and includes an L-shaped portion 240 extending down to a retainer 246 . Retainer 246 extends below and engages a stud or other protrusion 244 that acts as a stop. The stop 208 is subject to gravity so that gravity can position the stop 208 in an engaged position until actuated by the lifting tool 300 described below.

Referring to FIGS. 14 and 15 , the slidably mounted second member 206 includes a slot 210 having a flange 238 for receiving an engaging rod 312 on the lifting tool 300 . The second member 206 includes slots 230 that are vertically movable relative to the base 202 - sliding between a lowered position and a raised position, and over bolts or screws 232 . At the rear of the second link 206, an engaging bottom surface 236 interacts with the hook 204 to provide the actuation force and movement between an engaged position and a disengaged position. Engagement bottom surface 236 may be located on a spacer 248 to accommodate different vertical mounting positions for the hook for various height risers as described below. The hook 204 includes an engaging top surface 216 that interacts with a surface 236 of the second member 206 . The hook 204 includes a flange 218 that defines a slot 220 for receiving the frame member 52 .

Referring now to FIG. 21, the lifting tool 300 includes a handle 302 that extends substantially horizontally on top of an upright portion 306 of the frame. A cross member 308 provides additional support. Lifting tool 300 includes a pivot portion 304 that also acts as an axle and is mounted to wheels 310 . An engagement rod 312 extends substantially horizontally and is configured to be inserted into the slot 210 of the second embodiment of the locking device 200 . The engaging bar 312 extends a width to engage two of the spaced locking devices 200 for the seating units of the two theater seats 30 so that one worker can insert and remove the locking devices and the seats simultaneously.

Referring now to FIG. 20 , the seat 30 may be mounted single, double or multiple and includes a mounting bar 160 which is generally mounted to the base 202 of the second embodiment of the locking device 200 . The rod 160 can also be used to accept the mounting plate 44 of the first embodiment of the seat locking device 100 . Mounting bars 160 receive legs 42 of theater seating 30 . It should be understood that each theater seating manufacturer may offer different installation methods. Mounting rod 160 is suitable for each different kind of mounting method. For example, the rod may accept U-bolts with which the legs are directly secured to the surface of the rod 160 , or inserted over the top of the rod 160 . Mounting rods 160 may be configured to extend at each end and engage the next adjacent mounting rod to maintain seats 30 at a predetermined spacing as shown in FIG. 10 .

Referring now to FIGS. 16-19 , the present invention can accommodate different elevations between plates 50 . Depending on the amphitheater configuration in which the seating system 20 is desired, different elevations are required to provide different venue circuits. Typical rises include 5-inch, 6-inch, 7-inch and 8-inch rises. Figures 16-19 describe them respectively. Each of the embodiments 100 or 200 provided by the present invention can be adapted to different heights. With the first embodiment of the locking device 100, the linkage 108 need not be configured to hold the frame member 52 at the same distance below the platform deck 50 and the base 102 as the elevation changes. The spacing between the frame 52 and the next bottom plate 50 does not affect the structure of the locking device 100 .

For the second embodiment 200, as shown in Figs. 16-19, the position of the hook 204 must be able to be positioned as the elevation changes between the flat plate containing the seat 30 and the higher adjacent flat plate at the rear of the seat. Adapt to changes in altitude. In order to accommodate these gaps, a number of mounting holes 214 are vertically spaced at the rear of the base 202 . The holes 214 are vertically staggered in increments corresponding to standard elevations. The position of the hook 204 can be moved vertically by moving the pivot 212 . Thus, for elevation A, the hook 204 is installed in the lowest mounting hole 214 as shown in FIG. 16 . In FIG. 17 , for the 6 inch rise B, the hole is moved up into the middle hole 214 . For the 7 inch rise C shown in FIG. 18 or the 8 inch rise D shown in FIG. 19 , the pivot 212 must be moved to the highest hole 214 . Additionally, a spacer member 222 is attached to the hook 204 with a bolt or other fastener 223 for an 8 inch rise. Spacer member 222 forms a flange and slot that receives frame member 52 in a configuration similar to hook 204 .

In addition to the location of the hook 204 , the abutment surface 236 must remain to engage the top of the hook at the surface 216 . 14 and 15, when the locking device 200 is set to a 5 or 6 inch rise, which corresponds to one of the two holes 214 at the bottom, the mating surface must be placed under the spacer 248. The abutment surface 236 must be moved downwardly by inserting the spacer 248 to engage the surface 216 of these lower raised hooks 204 . As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, a 1 inch or other height stop corresponding to the standard spacing between holes 214 is inserted. When the platform 20 is configured for the lowest elevation, corresponding to the configuration shown in FIG. Spacers are usually 2 inches.

When the platform 20 is configured for a larger lift, such as shown in FIG. As shown in Figures 18 and 19, for the larger lift, since the hook 204 is modified with the spacer 222, the relative position between the hook 204 and the slide member 206 is the same as for the 7 inch lift. Accordingly, no modification of the slide member 206 is required to accommodate variations in elevation between 7 inches or 8 inches. Although 1 inch spacing has been recited, it should be clear that other increments may be used by having different spacers 248 and/or different distances between mounting holes 214 .

Referring now to FIG. 22 , a preferred bracket for seat rails 170 extending on both sides and rear of seating system 20 is shown. A set screw 172 is inserted into an internally threaded sleeve 174 on the mounting plate 176 which is connected to the outer tube 178 mounted on the platform, and the set screw is inserted into the plate 184 of the mounting leg 180 of the track 170. hole 182 to prevent removal of track 170. Set screw or bolt 172 acts as a lock between mounting leg 180 and the outer tube so that track 170 cannot be pulled upwardly without first removing set screw or other bolt 172 .

As shown in FIG. 15 , to insert and engage the locking device 200 , the tool 300 is placed on the base 202 with the pivot portion 304 on the top surface of the base 202 and the engagement lever 312 engages the slot 210 . Inserting the engagement rod 312 into the slot 210 pushes the stop 208 out of engagement with the protrusion 244 . This movement may raise the second member 206 . Tool 300 is then pivoted to raise engagement lever 312 and second member 206 . Raising the second member 206 pivots the hook 204 downward. When the hook is lowered, the locking device 200 is pushed back while the tool 300 pivots and raises the second member 206 . As shown in FIG. 14 , the hook 204 slides under the frame 52 so that the flange 218 is located behind the frame 52 . In positioning the hook 204 , the engagement lever 312 is lowered, thereby lowering the second member, causing the hook 204 to pivot upward and engage the frame 52 . As shown in FIG. 13, when the tool 300 is disengaged from the second member 206, the bottom of the frame 52 extends into the slot 220, and the hook 218 extends behind the frame to prevent the locking device 200 from being pulled out. As shown in Figure 12, the locking device 200 stabilizes the seat 30 so that it cannot pivot forward and tip over when the tool 300 is removed.

To remove the locking device 200 , the second member 206 is raised by inserting the engagement lever 312 into the slot 210 and pivoting upward. As shown in FIG. 14 , this movement pivots the hook 204 downward so that the flange 218 is lower than the bottom of the frame 52 . As shown in FIG. 15 , the locking device 200 is then pulled forward, causing the second member 206 to be raised and the hook 204 to be lowered. When the movement of the locking device 200 brings the hook 204 in front of the frame 52, the engagement rod 312 is lowered. The locking device 200 is disengaged, and the seat 30 and the locking device 200 are removed from the platform system 20 .

However, it should be understood that although various features and advantages of the present invention have been set forth in the above description, as well as details of the structure and function of the present invention, this disclosure is only illustrative and can be interpreted within the scope of the principles of the present invention. Changes are made in details, especially in the shape, size and arrangement of parts, to the full extent indicated by the broad meanings of terms expressed in the accompanying appendix.

Claims (29)

1. A portable seating device, said device comprising: a support structure comprising a frame supporting the horizontal plate section; a portable theater seat having support means on the lower rear portion of the seat; A removable bracket is attached to the support structure and locked above and below the frame, the bracket is removably attached to the support means. 2. The portable seating unit of claim 1, wherein the bracket includes a housing configured to receive a complementary portion of a theater seating support unit. 3. The portable seating unit of claim 1, wherein said frame includes an actuator linkage that remotely actuates an engagement portion. 4. The portable seating apparatus of claim 3, wherein the actuator includes a handle portion. 5. The portable seating apparatus of claim 1, wherein said bracket includes a retainer engaging an underside of said frame. 6. A locking device for supporting an item on a panel having a frame below the panel, said locking device comprising: a detachable receiver, said receiver being adapted to the item to be secured; a retaining member that engages the frame and secures the receiver to the plate; a linkage connected to the hook member and moving the hook member into and out of an engaged position; An actuator handle for actuating the linkage. 7. A locking device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the receiver defines a slot which receives a complementary member. 8. The locking device of claim 7, wherein insertion of said complementary member engages said handle and locks said retaining member to lock said receptacle to a plate and support an article. 9. A locking device as claimed in claim 8, wherein the complementary member comprises a plate. 10. A locking device for locking the outer edge of a frame, said locking device comprising: a base mounted to the first surface above the frame; a cover plate pivotally mounted to the base and extending over the outer edge of the frame; a retainer pivotally mounted to the cover and engaged with the underside of the frame; a first linkage pivotally mounted to the holder; and An actuator pivotally mounted to the first link and extending above the first surface. 11. The locking device of claim 10, wherein the base is positioned such that the cover plate extends downwardly beyond the outer edge of the frame. 12. The locking device of claim 11, wherein the retainer is positioned and configured to extend below the frame. 13. The locking device of claim 12, wherein the retainer includes a finger extending upwardly adjacent the inner edge of the frame. 14. The locking device of claim 10, wherein the actuating member includes an angled first end extending downwardly toward the first link. 15. The locking device of claim 14, wherein the actuating member includes an angled, upwardly extending second end. 16. The locking device of claim 10, wherein the actuator extends through a passage formed in the base. 17. A support device for locking a first member to a panel having a frame, said support device comprising: a support housing including a receiver portion; a complementary member mounted to said first member, said complementary member engaging with and supported by said receiver portion; a retainer engaged with the underside of the frame and locked to the frame; a linkage connected to said retainer such that upon actuation of said linkage, said retainer engages the underside of said frame; wherein said complementary member engages said linkage upon insertion into said receiver portion and automatically actuates said linkage, wherein a slot is placed above the linkage, the complementary member is inserted into the slot, engageable with the actuator, and pulls up the first end of the actuator, thereby pulling up the first Connecting rods and retainers. 18. A portable seat elevation system, the system comprising: a plurality of riser platforms, including slabs and support frames, the platforms are of various heights and arranged in a raised configuration; multiple portable theater seats; A plurality of locking devices mountable to the frame for removably securing theater seating to the riser platform. 19. The seat rise system of claim 18, further comprising a transition plate supported at each end of the riser platform having the same height to form an elongated platform surface. 20. The seat lift system of claim 18, further comprising means for attaching to said riser platform. 21. The seat lift system of claim 18, wherein the locking device is removably engageable with the underside of the support frame. 22. The seat lift system of claim 18, wherein said locking device is automatically secured to said platform when a seat is engaged with said locking device. 23. A locking system for locking a seat leg to the rear of a deck system having a frame member, said locking system comprising: a base member configured to support the seat leg; a second member slidably mounted vertically to the base member, the rear portion of the second member having an engaging portion; a retaining member pivotally mounted to the rear of the base member and including a complementary portion that engages with the engaging portion of the second member, wherein lowering the second member can Pivoting the retaining member upwardly, raising the second member pivots the retaining member downwardly. 24. The locking system of claim 23, wherein the locking device further comprises an actuation means for raising the second member relative to the base. 25. The locking system of claim 23, wherein the retaining member includes a hook portion forming a slot. 26. The locking system of claim 23, wherein said base member defines a plurality of mounting locations, said retainer being mountable to a plurality of said base members of different heights. 27. The locking system of claim 26, wherein said second member includes a removable spacer for maintaining spacing between said second member and said retaining member. 28. The locking system of claim 24, wherein the second member forms a slot for receiving an actuation tool. 29. A method of locking a seat to a raised structure having a deck and a frame member above and behind the deck, the method comprising the steps of: A locking device is provided for engaging the seat, the locking device has a base and a hook pivotally mounted on the rear of the locking device, a link slides substantially perpendicularly on the base and engages the said hook engagement; providing a lifting tool having a lifting rod insertable under a portion of the second member; placing the locking device on the plate in front of the frame member; inserting the lifting tool under a portion of the connecting rod; pivoting the lifting tool to raise the lifting rod and the link thereby lowering the hook; slide the locking device rearward until the hook extends beneath the frame member; and Pivoting the lift tool lowers the lift rod and linkage to engage the raised hook with the frame member.

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