Platform assembly system

Abstract

A plank assembly system having two elements: one being a plank member having a horizontal walking surface, two downwardly projecting vertical legs, each vertical leg having a barbed fastener, and a downwardly projecting center support. The second element of the device is a U-shaped retaining clip having a horizontal mounting surface which is affixed to a joist system, and two upwardly extending vertical legs, each upwardly extending vertical leg having an inwardly projecting barb sized to interlock with the barb on the downwardly projecting vertical leg of the plank member. The retaining clip is also made of extruded PVC and is cut to a width sufficient for proper installation and strength of the overall platform. A plurality of retaining clips are affixed to a joist system of either metal, plastic or wood using securing means such as screws, or nuts and bolts. The retaining clips are secured to the joist system end to end along their length in sufficient number to cover the joist system so that a platform of the desired size can be created. A bead of silicone caulk is placed between the plank member and retaining clip. The plank member is then placed over the retaining clip and locked into place.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.