I'f I'm following you correctly, those knobs are what locks the stand open or closed during transport. Loosen them just like a screw(lefty loosey, righty tighty) and open the platform all the way. Now lock them back down and your ready to go.

I will say that this stand will grip some trees that I would never get in with my other stands. I absolutely love it, One of the best things I've ever spent my money on, EVER!