Wide decking structure

Abstract

The present invention pertains to a long-span decking panel. The long-span decking panel is used, for instance, to span the space between girders to create a roof or a composite floor. The panel has a flange member having a first edge and a second edge. The edges are at least 11 inches apart. The flange member defines an essentially flat unbroken soffit except for a series of stiffening ribs running transverse to the edges. The stiffening ribs provide sufficient rigidity to the flange member to prevent it from buckling along its length. The long-span decking panel also has a first web member which is integrally jointed and extending obliquely form the first edge. There is also a second web member integrally joined and extending obliquely from the second edge. The web members can be of any desirable length depending on the decking situation. There is a first seated end extending from the first web member in a parallel relationship with the flange member and a second seated end extending from the second web member in a similar parallel relationship with the flange member. The seated ends are adapted for the decking to rest upon. The present invention also pertains to a plated decking structure. The decking structure has at least one, but preferably more than one, long-span decking panel. The long-span decking panels are of similar construction and innovation as previously described. (i.e. the flange is wider than normal and is supported by only a series of transverse stiffening ribs). A base plate is provided upon which the first and second seated ends are fixedly attached.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.