Extendable/retractable support column

Abstract

An extendable and retractable column which is formed from at least three linked sections. The linked sections include a plurality of individual sections linked end to end. As the linked sections are extended, each of the individual sections of the linked chains engage individual sections of adjacent linked chains to form a column. As the linked sections are retracted, each of the individual sections of the linked chains disengage from the individual section of the adjacent linked sections and the individual linked sections may be rolled up for compact storage.

1 . An extendable/retractable column comprising: at least three linked sections, each linked section including a plurality of individual sections pivotally connected to one another in end-to-end relationship, each linked section positioned adjacent to at least two other linked sections; each individual section having an inner surface, a first end and a second end and a connection tab at the first end of the individual section, the connection tab extending inwardly of the inner surface of the individual section; and each individual section including a tab receiving surface at the second end of the individual section for engagement by the connection tab of an individual section of one of the adjacent linked sections.