Stabilizer mechanism for ladders, ladders incorporating same, and related methods

Abstract

Stabilization mechanisms, ladders incorporating stabilization mechanisms, and related methods can include struts or brackets that can be automatically deployed from a collapsed configuration to a deployed or expanded configuration to support and stabilize the ladder as it extends. The stabilizer mechanism can include a biasing member configured to urge the strut rearwardly and outwardly when a movable rail assembly of the ladder extends relative to a base rail assembly thereof. Some stabilizer mechanisms can be manually deployed independently of one another.

Description

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims priority and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 429,457, filed on December 1, 2022, entitled "STABILIZER MECHANISMS FOR LADDERS, LADDERS INCORPORATING SAME, AND RELATED METHODS", the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to ladders, ladder systems, ladder components, and related methods, and more particularly, to stabilizers, support arms, pedestals, and related mechanisms for ladders, and related methods for their manufacture and operation. Background Art

[0004] Ladders are commonly used to provide access for their users to locations that might otherwise be inaccessible. Ladders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, such as straight ladders, straight telescoping ladders, step ladders, and combination step - telescoping ladders. So - called combination ladders incorporate the advantages of many other ladder designs in a single ladder.

[0005] Ladders are common tools for professional tradespeople and homeowners. Sometimes, even for those who use ladders frequently, using a ladder can be an inconvenient experience when performing certain tasks while standing on the rungs of the ladder. For example, when performing high - altitude work projects (e.g., painting a ceiling, changing a light bulb, etc.), it is easy to lose balance on the ladder.

[0006] Sometimes, when a ladder is leaned against and supported on the edge of a roof (e.g., a rain gutter positioned on the roof edge), the ladder may be unstable or at least feel unstable, especially when the user reaches beyond the side rails of the ladder while working, thereby changing the load dynamics that the ladder bears. Therefore, when leaning a ladder against a support surface (a wall, a roof edge, etc.), it is sometimes necessary to provide additional stability.

[0007] Although various accessories or "add - on" features may help provide improved stability and safety, if a ladder is loaded with too many accessories, it can become too heavy, difficult to operate, and hard to store and transport. Additionally, stabilizers that are difficult to deploy or store may be overlooked. Thus, in some cases, users would rather not use accessories or features that could otherwise provide enhanced stability or safety during ladder use.

[0008] The industry has long sought to improve various aspects of ladders. Summary of the Invention

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a ladder, which includes: a first component including a first pair of guide rails and a first plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the first pair of guide rails; a second component including a second pair of guide rails and a second plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the second pair of guide rails, the second pair of guide rails being displaceable relative to the first pair of guide rails between a collapsed configuration and an extended configuration; and a stabilizer mechanism mounted to at least one of the first pair of guide rails and including: a strut having a top end and a bottom end, the top end pivotally coupled to the at least one guide rail laterally outside the at least one guide rail; and a biasing member, wherein in response to displacement of the first pair of guide rails from the collapsed configuration to the extended configuration, the biasing member applies a force to the stabilizer mechanism to pivot the strut at the top end to extend the bottom end outwardly relative to the at least one guide rail.

[0010] In some embodiments, the stabilizer mechanism further includes: a link member pivotally coupled to the strut; and a pivot bracket slidably coupled to and pivotally coupled to the link member with at least one of the first pair of guide rails.

[0011] In some embodiments, the biasing member is configured to apply a force to the bracket to pivot the strut via the link member.

[0012] In some embodiments, the stabilizer mechanism further includes: a second strut pivotally coupled to a second guide rail of the first pair of guide rails; a second link member pivotally coupled to the second strut; and a second bracket slidably coupled to and pivotally coupled to the second link member with the second guide rail.

[0013] In some embodiments, the stabilizer mechanism further includes a cross-link member coupling the pivot bracket and the second bracket.

[0014] In some embodiments, when the strut is in the collapsed configuration, the strut is substantially parallel to at least one of the guide rails.

[0015] In some embodiments, the pivot axis of the strut is oriented at a non-orthogonal angle relative to the plane in which the first pair of guide rails lies.

[0016] In some embodiments, the strut is configured to rotate laterally outwardly relative to at least one of the guide rails.

[0017] In some embodiments, the biasing member is directly coupled to at least one of the guide rails.

[0018] In some embodiments, the ladder further includes an inclined surface formed on at least one guide rail, wherein the strut is configured to pivot into contact with the inclined surface. In some embodiments, the inclined surface includes a surface configured to resist movement of the strut away from the collapsed configuration.

[0019] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a ladder including: a first assembly including a first pair of guide rails and a first plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the first pair of guide rails; a second assembly including a second pair of guide rails and a second plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the second pair of guide rails, the second pair of guide rails being displaceable relative to the first pair of guide rails between a collapsed configuration and an extended configuration; and a stabilizer mechanism mounted to at least one of the first pair of guide rails and including: a strut having a first end and a second end, the first end pivotally coupled to at least one of the first pair of guide rails; a link member pivotally coupled to the strut; a carriage slidably coupled to at least one guide rail; and a handle assembly slidably coupled to at least one guide rail and coupled to the carriage, wherein a sliding movement of the handle assembly is configured to pivot the strut via the carriage and via the link member.

[0020] In some embodiments, the handle assembly includes a grip body and a latch member coupled to the grip body, the latch member being movable between a first position locking the grip body relative to the guide rail and a second position allowing the grip body to move relative to the guide rail. In some embodiments, the latch member is lockable relative to the guide rail in a plurality of spaced positions on the guide rail.

[0021] In some embodiments, the stabilizer mechanism further includes a rod connecting the handle assembly to the carriage. In some embodiments, the stabilizer mechanism further includes a support bracket coupled to the guide rail and the rod.

[0022] Additionally, in some embodiments, the strut is a first strut, and the ladder further includes a second stabilizer mechanism including: a second strut pivotally coupled to a second guide rail of the first pair of guide rails; a second link member pivotally coupled to the second strut; and a second carriage slidably coupled to the second guide rail; wherein the second strut is deployable to a first angular displacement relative to the second guide rail while the first strut is deployed to a second angular displacement relative to at least one guide rail.

[0023] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a stabilizer mechanism for a ladder, the stabilizer mechanism including: a strut having an end pivotally attached to a guide rail; a carriage slidably attached to the guide rail; a link member having a first end pivotally attached to the strut and a second end pivotally attached to the carriage, wherein movement of the carriage relative to the end of the strut is configured to rotate the strut via the link member; and a handle assembly slidably attached to the guide rail and coupled to the carriage.

[0024] In some embodiments, the carriage forms a channel configured to receive a web or flange portion of the guide rail. In some embodiments, the handle assembly includes a latch member configured to lock the handle assembly relative to the guide rail.

[0025] The foregoing summary is not intended to describe every embodiment or every implementation of the embodiments disclosed herein. The following drawings and detailed description more particularly illustrate one or more preferred embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The drawings and figures illustrate multiple exemplary embodiments and are part of the specification. Together with this specification, these drawings disclose and explain various principles of the present disclosure. A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention can be realized by reference to the following drawings. In the drawings, like reference numerals may denote like parts or features.

[0027] Figure 1 is an isometric view of a ladder in a retracted configuration and a detailed view thereof.

[0028] Figure 2 is of a ladder Figure 1 in an extended configuration and a detailed view thereof.

[0029] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a front view of the ladder.

[0030] Figure 4 is a front view of a ladder Figure 3 in a partially extended position.

[0031] Figure 5 is a front view of a ladder Figure 3 in a fully extended position.

[0032] Figure 6 is Figure 3 a side view of the ladder.

[0033] Figure 7 is Figure 5 a side view of the ladder.

[0034] Figure 8 is Figure 1 An isometric view of the guide rail of the ladder.

[0035] Figure 9 is Figure 4 An isometric view of the ladder.

[0036] Figure 10 An isometric view of the ladder in the retracted configuration.

[0037] Figure 11 is Figure 10 A side view of the ladder and its detailed view.

[0038] Figure 12 is of Figure 10 An isometric view of the ladder in the extended configuration.

[0039] Figure 13 is Figure 12 A side view of the ladder and its detailed view.

[0040] Figure 14 An isometric view of the retraction stabilizer mechanism on the ladder.

[0041] Figure 15 is Figure 14 A front view of the ladder.

[0042] Figure 16 is Figure 14 A side view of the ladder, in which the link member is shown transparently.

[0043] Figure 17 An isometric view of the ladder, in which the stabilizer mechanism is in a transitional state.

[0044] Figure 18 A side view of the ladder, in which the stabilizer mechanism is in a transitional state.

[0045] Figure 19 A front view of the ladder, in which the stabilizer mechanism is in a transitional state.

[0046] Figure 20 A top view of the ladder, in which the stabilizer mechanism is in a transitional state.

[0047] Figure 21 A top view of the ladder, in which the stabilizer mechanism is in the retracted state.

[0048] Figure 22 An isometric view of the ladder, in which the stabilizer mechanism is in the retracted state.

[0049] Figure 23 An isometric view of the ladder, in which the stabilizer mechanism is in the extended state.

[0050] Figure 24 Is an isometric view of a ladder with a stabilizer mechanism in a retracted state.

[0051] Figure 25 Is Figure 24 an isometric view of a ladder, where the stabilizer mechanism is in a transitional state.

[0052] Figure 26 Is Figure 25 an isometric view of a ladder, where the stabilizer mechanism is in an extended state.

[0053] Figure 27 Is an isometric view of a ladder with a stabilizer mechanism in a first deployed state.

[0054] Figure 28A Is the Figure 27 stabilizer mechanism of a ladder that is separated from the rest of the ladder, shown in isometric view.

[0055] Figure 28B Is an isometric view that shows in more detail Figure 27 the components of the stabilizer mechanism of a ladder.

[0056] Figure 29A Is a cross-sectional view of a handle assembly of a stabilizer mechanism in a locked state and mounted to a guide rail (as taken along section line 29-29 in Figure 28B ).

[0057] Figure 29B Is a cross-sectional view of a Figure 29A handle assembly in an unlocked state.

[0058] Figure 30 Is Figure 27 a right side view of a ladder, where the stabilizer mechanism is in a first deployed state and shown relative to a ground support surface and a vertical support surface.

[0059] Figure 31 Is Figure 27 a right side view of a ladder, where the stabilizer mechanism is in a second deployed state and shown relative to a ground support surface and a raised inclined support surface.

[0060] While the embodiments described herein are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, the exemplary embodiments described herein are not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. On the contrary, this disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the appended claims. Detailed Description

[0061] This specification provides examples and does not limit the scope, applicability, or configuration set forth in the claims. Accordingly, it should be understood that, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, changes may be made to the functions and arrangements of the elements discussed, and various implementations may appropriately omit, substitute, or add other processes or components. For example, the methods described may be performed in an order different from the order described, and various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Additionally, features described with respect to certain implementations may be combined in other implementations.

[0062] Figures 1 to 2 An isometric view (including a detailed view) of a ladder 100 in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure is shown. The ladder 100 may include a first assembly 102 (i.e., a movable assembly) that includes a first pair of rails 101 (e.g., front rails, inner rails, or movable rails) and a first plurality of rungs 103 (i.e., steps or lateral supports) that extend between and are coupled to the first pair of rails 101. The ladder 100 may further include a second assembly 106 (i.e., a base assembly) that includes a second pair of rails 109 (e.g., base rails, rear rails, or outer rails) and a second plurality of rungs 111 (e.g., rear horizontal struts or lateral supports). The rungs 103, 111 may reinforce the first assembly 102 and the second assembly 106, respectively, and may provide structural rigidity to the ladder 100. A pair of adjustable feet 105 may be coupled to and positioned at the bottom ends of the second pair of rails 109.

[0063] The second assembly 106 may be referred to as the base assembly or base section of the ladder 100, and the first assembly 102 may be referred to as the movable assembly or movable section of the ladder 100. The ladder 100 may be a telescoping ladder, where the overall major / longitudinal length of the ladder 100 may be extended or retracted primarily based on the longitudinal displacement adjustment of the movable assembly 102 relative to the base assembly 106. A longitudinal adjustment mechanism 107 may be used to control the locking or unlocking of the coupling of the assemblies 102, 106 at various relative ladder length positions. For example, the longitudinal adjustment mechanism 107 may be a ratchet mechanism that is configured to hold the ladder in its maximum extended configuration unless unlocked and allowed to retract to a retracted configuration. Figure 1 The ladder 100 is shown in a fully retracted, retracted, or collapsed configuration, and Figure 2 the ladder 100 is shown in an extended and lengthened configuration.

[0064] The upper end portion of the first component 102 may include a pair of stabilizer mechanisms 112, each of which may be positioned on a respective lateral outer side of the guide rail 101. Each stabilizer mechanism 112 may include a strut 114 that is pivotally coupled to the guide rail 101 at a first bracket 118 (i.e., an upper bracket or a fixed pivot bracket). Each stabilizer mechanism 112 may also include a link member 116 that is pivotally coupled to the strut 114 and a second bracket 124 (i.e., a lower bracket or a sliding pivot bracket) located at an end of the cross-link member 120. A retaining ramp 122 may be positioned on a lateral outer surface of each of the second pair of guide rails 109. In some embodiments, the first bracket 118 and the guide rail 101 and / or the second bracket 124 and the guide rail 101 may be integrally formed as a single piece. Accordingly, the strut 114 and the link member 116 may each be pivotally coupled directly to the guide rail 101.

[0065] The stabilizer mechanism 112 may be configured to be in a Figure 1 contracted or folded configuration as shown, and may be configured to be in an Figure 2 extended or deployed configuration as shown. When in the contracted configuration, the stabilizer mechanism 112 may be positioned compactly on the guide rail 109 to facilitate storage, transportation, and shipment of the ladder 100 from one place to another. When in the extended configuration, the stabilizer mechanism 112 may extend at least partially rearward of the movable guide rail 101 (see Figure 7 ), and in some embodiments, may also extend laterally outward from the movable guide rail 101 (see Figure 5 ). The positioning of the stabilizer mechanism 112 in the extended configuration may help support and stabilize the ladder 100 against a wall and a flat or inclined top surface such as a roof. In one exemplary implementation, the stabilizer mechanism 112 may contact the roof such that the ladder 100 does not contact the rain gutter at the edge of the roof.

[0066] As explained herein, the stabilizer mechanism 112 may be configured to automatically deploy or expand from its contracted configuration to its extended configuration in response to the ladder 100 extending from a contracted configuration (e.g., Figure 1 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 ) to an extended configuration (e.g., Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 ). The components of the stabilizer mechanism 112 may include a biasing mechanism to actuate the strut 114 and move the strut outward relative to the movable guide rail 101 when the movable guide rail 101 reaches a predetermined position as the movable guide rail 101 transitions from the contracted configuration to the extended configuration. The stabilizer mechanism 112 may also be configured to automatically retract or contract in response to the ladder 100 retracting or contracting from its extended configuration to its contracted configuration.

[0067] The strut 114 can be a generally linear and rigid member of the stabilizer mechanism 112 that is configured to provide support for the ladder 100 upon deployment. The strut 114 can include feet 117 (i.e., engagement ends or contactors) that are configured to contact a support surface against which the ladder 100 leans. The feet 117 can include friction enhancing materials (e.g., rubber, elastomeric polymers, or other elastic materials) or textures (e.g., knurling, ribbing, grooves, or spikes) that are configured to increase friction against the support surface, thereby reducing sliding of the strut 114 against the support surface. The strut 114 can be pivotally connected to the first bracket 118 and, via its pivotal connection to the bracket 118, can rotate in a plane that is oriented at a non - orthogonal angle relative to the plane in which the movable rail 101 is positioned, as Figures 3 to 7 indicated.

[0068] The link member 116 can be pivotally connected to the strut 114 and the second bracket 124. The link member 116 can be generally linear and rigid. In its retracted configuration, the link member 116 can extend in a slightly parallel orientation relative to the strut 114, and when the link member 116 is in its extended configuration, the link member can extend at a significantly greater angle relative to the strut 114 and can form a triangular support configuration with the strut 114 and the rail 101 in the stabilizer mechanism 112. In some embodiments, the link member 116 can be oriented substantially horizontally when fully deployed, as Figure 5 shown.

[0069] Each first bracket 118 can be attached to each movable rail 101. The first bracket 118 can be directly pivotally coupled to the upper end portion of the strut 114. The pivot axes R1, R2 (see e Figure 1 and Figure 5 ) of each respective strut 114 can be defined as passing through their respective first brackets 118, and each pivot axis can be oriented at a non - orthogonal angle relative to the plane in which the movable rail 101 lies, and the forward - facing surface of the cross - link member 120 is parallel to this plane.

[0070] The cross - link member 120 can be slidably coupled to the two movable rails 101 at the second bracket 124. As Figure 1 shown, the cross - link member 120 can include an internally - located rail - engaging bracket portion 130 and an externally - located link - engaging bracket portion 132. The rail - engaging bracket portion 130 can at least partially surround a portion of the rail 101 (e.g., the side flange of the channel of the rail 101) and thus can maintain sliding contact with the rail 101 as it longitudinally moves along the rail between the retracted and extended configurations. See Figures 3 to 5。A biasing member (e.g., a spring or a counterweight) can be attached to the cross-link member 120, such as by being positioned inside the channel of at least one movable guide rail 101. In Figures 3 to 5 , an exemplary biasing member 134 is schematically shown as a tension spring. The biasing member can longitudinally bias the second bracket 124 away from (e.g., downward) the first bracket 118. The longitudinal movement of the cross-link member 120 can push the link member 116 to pivot at the second bracket 124, thereby pushing the strut 114 towards its extended position and its extended state. In some embodiments, the biasing member can be positioned on each side of the cross-link member 120. As will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art and those benefiting from the present disclosure, the biasing member can be implemented as a compression spring and can be laterally positioned outside the movable guide rail 101.

[0071] The action of the biasing member can achieve the automatic deployment of the stabilizer mechanism 112. To prevent automatic deployment when the ladder 100 is in the retracted configuration, the retaining bevels 122 on each lateral outer side of the base guide rail 109 can include a blocking surface 136. See Figures 6 to 8 . When the stabilizer mechanism 112 is in the retracted configuration, the blocking surface 136 can engage the strut 114 or the foot 117, and the engagement between the strut / foot and the blocking surface 136 can mechanically interfere with the backward / outward movement of the strut 114 towards the extended configuration. Therefore, the blocking surface 136 can resist the release of the potential energy that would open the stabilizer mechanism 112 from the biasing member 134.

[0072] When the user wishes to extend the ladder 100, the first assembly 102 can move longitudinally upward and parallel to the second assembly 106, thereby causing the strut 114 and the foot 117 to move upward and parallel to the second assembly 106. After passing over the blocking surface 136, the strut 114 / foot 117 can automatically transition outward and backward to the extended configuration in response to the biasing force of the biasing member 134.

[0073] In some embodiments, the retaining bevel 122 may not be necessary to prevent the rotation of the strut 114 or the foot 117 through the blocking surface 136. For example, each base guide rail 109 can include a folding tab 138 extending from a side surface (e.g., the front surface 140) away from the guide rail 109. See Figure 2 、 Figure 8 and Figure 9 , when the ladder 100 is retracted, the stabilizer mechanism 112 can bring the second bracket 124 into contact with the folding tab 138 because the folding tab 138 extends far enough away from the front surface 140 to contact the second bracket 124. Thus, even if the biasing member 134 exerts a force that pulls the second bracket 124 towards the bottom of the ladder 100, the contact between the second bracket 124 and the folding tab 138 can prevent the second bracket 124 from moving downward.

[0074] When the ladder 100 is extended and elongated by the user, the movable guide rail 101 moves the stabilizer mechanism 112 upward. The first bracket 118 begins to move upward and away from the second bracket 124, as Figure 3 shown by the difference with Figure 4 so that the strut 114 begins to rotate towards its extended position. Eventually, the second bracket 124 is biased downward by the biasing member to their lowest possible position, for example, as Figure 5 shown, and the movable guide rail 101 continues to move upward, creating a space between the second bracket 124 and the folding tab 138. Thus, the relative movement of the folding tab 138 away from the first bracket 118 and then away from the second bracket 124 allows the stabilizer mechanism 112 to fully extend.

[0075] When the stabilizer mechanism 112 is contracted again, the second bracket 124 can move downward as the movable guide rail 101 is pulled downward until the second bracket 124 contacts the folding tab 138 again. Continuing to move downward after the first contact can cause the first bracket 118 to move towards the second bracket 124, resulting in the contraction and folding rotation of the strut 114. Eventually, the folding tab 138 has pressed the second bracket 124 close enough to the first bracket 118 to return to Figure 3 its fully contracted position. Potential energy can be stored in the biasing member again, and this energy can be used to extend the stabilizer mechanism 112 again.

[0076] In some embodiments, the retaining bevels 122 on each side of the ladder 100 can help guide the feet 117 or struts 114 towards the front surface 140 of the base rail 109. When the strut 114 / foot 117 moves towards the storage / contraction position, the retaining bevel 122 can have a lateral outer surface against which the strut 114 / foot 117 slides to reach the front of the base rail 109. This can help prevent the strut 114 from getting stuck when positioned on the lateral side of the base rail 109 and can help the strut 114 / foot 117 apply a force that helps drive the second bracket 124 upward (via the link member 116) relative to the retaining bevel 122. The slope of the retaining bevel 122 is shown in Figure 8 as being inclined towards the front surface 140 of the base rail 109. The non-orthogonal plane in which the strut 114 rotates can intersect the bevel surface 142 of the retaining bevel 122 such that it is ensured that the strut 114 / foot 117 engages the bevel surface 142 during contraction, as Figure 9As shown by arrow Z. Then, the blocking surface 136 can help to hold the strut 114 / foot 117 in the retracted position, even when the ladder 100 shakes or the strut 114 is bumped or jostled while in the retracted configuration. Contact with the blocking surface 136 under these conditions can minimize the torque on the hinges and pivots of the stabilizer mechanism 112, and thus can help to increase the durability and lifespan of the stabilizer mechanism 112.

[0077] In various embodiments, the ladder 100 can include one or two stabilizer mechanisms 112, such as one stabilizer mechanism on each side of the ladder 100 or one stabilizer mechanism on only one of its sides. The stabilizer mechanism 112 can be independently deployable and retractable, such as, for example, if the cross-linkage structure 120 is disconnected at its center and only the second bracket 124 remains. Thus, the components of one stabilizer mechanism 112 can remain fixed while the other components are repositioned. The elements and features of the ladder 100 have been combined Figures 1 to 9 and described, and these elements and features can be used in combination with the features described in connection with other embodiments referenced herein, or in place of the features described in connection with other embodiments referenced herein. Thus, Figures 1 to 9 the illustrated embodiments should be understood as example embodiments having various features that can be used alone or as a component / assembly group of components and mechanisms.

[0078] Figures 10 to 23 Additional components and features of the ladder 200 are illustrated, and the ladder can include a stabilizer mechanism 212 that provides functions and capabilities similar to those of the stabilizer mechanism 112. The ladder 200 can include a movable rail 201, a base rail 209, a front rung 203, a rear rung 211, an adjustment mechanism 207, and feet 205, whose functions can be similar or identical to those of the similarly numbered components in the ladder 100. Figures 10 to 11 、 Figures 14 to 16 、 Figure 21 and Figure 22 show the ladder 200 in the retracted configuration, and Figures 12 to 13 and Figure 23 show the ladder 200 in the fully extended configuration. One stabilizer mechanism 212 can be positioned laterally outside each movable rail 201 and can automatically transition from the retracted configuration to the extended configuration in response to movement of the movable rail 201 relative to the base rail 209.

[0079] The stabilizer mechanisms 212 may each include a strut 214, an upper bracket 218, a lower bracket 224, and a pair of link members 216, 217. In some embodiments, similar to the feet 117, engagement members (e.g., feet, end caps, etc.) may be positioned on or incorporated into the ends of the struts 214. The upper bracket 218 and the lower bracket 224 may be directly coupled to the movable guide 201 at fixed positions. The first link member 216 may be pivotally coupled to the strut 214 and the second link member 217. The second link member 217 may be pivotally coupled to the guide 201. Thus, when in the folded / retracted configuration, the strut 214 and the link members 216, 217 may pivot to Figure 14 the position shown, where the strut 114 is substantially parallel to the movable guide 201 and is laterally positioned outside of the base guide 209. The stabilizer mechanisms 212 may be acted upon by a biasing member (e.g., Figure 22 the torsion spring 234 in) that directly or indirectly drives the joint that couples the first link member 216 and the second link member 217 apart. Thus, the stabilizer mechanisms 212 may be biased toward the open / deployed position. In some embodiments, similar to the biasing member 134, the biasing member may be positioned outside of the link members 216, 217. The biasing member may be a counterweight or other type of spring that is configured to apply a biasing force to the stabilizer mechanisms 212 that urges the stabilizer mechanisms to their extended configuration.

[0080] A follower 260 (e.g., a wheel, knob, tab, or protrusion) may extend from the stabilizer mechanism 212 toward contact with the forward-facing surface 262 of the base guide 209. See Figures 13 to 22 . The follower 260 may extend from the first link member 216 or the second link member 217 in a generally laterally inward direction and may include a circular (e.g., cylindrical or conical) contact surface configured to engage the surface 262 of the base guide 209. The contact between the follower 260 and the base guide 209 may mechanically interfere with the deployment of the stabilizer mechanism 212, and thus the stabilizer mechanism 212 may remain folded when the follower 260 is positioned somewhere between the ends of the base guide 209.

[0081] When the user adjusts the length of the ladder 200, the movable guide 201 (and the attached stabilizer mechanism 212) may move upward. The follower 260 may be coupled to a pivot pin or similar structure to allow rolling contact against the forward-facing surface 262 as the movable guide 201 moves. In some embodiments, the follower 260 may slide across the forward-facing surface 262. Eventually, the movable guide 201 and the follower 260 may move to the top end 264 of the base guide 209. This is shown in Figure 17is shown. Then, the rear-biased follower 260 can move over the top end 264 and can move rearwardly above the top end 264, as Figures 18 to 20 shown. As Figures 11 to 12 and Figure 23 shown, after the follower 260 has completely passed over the top end 264, the stabilizer mechanism 212 can freely expand and deploy due to the biasing force / moment applied by the biasing member.

[0082] When the ladder 200 is retracted, the movable guide rail 201 may rock, sway, or otherwise displace relative to the base guide rail 209. Additionally, the upper bracket 218 and the lower bracket 224 can be configured to angle the struts 214 rearwardly and laterally outwardly in a non-orthogonal plane relative to the plane in which the movable guide rail 201 is positioned, similar to axes R1 and R2. Thus, when the ladder 200 is retracted, the follower 260 can deviate laterally and rearwardly from the base guide rail 209.

[0083] The top ends 264 of the base guide rails 209 can each include a top cover 266 (i.e., a flange portion or a guiding portion), which is configured to engage the follower 260 when the ladder 200 transitions from the extended configuration toward the retracted configuration. The top cover 266 can have a lateral width greater than that of the base guide rail 209, as Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 19 , Figure 20 , Figure 21 and Figure 23 shown. The opening width of the top cover 266 can help ensure that the follower 260 re-engages the base guide rail 209 when the movable guide rail 101 contracts downwardly (such as when the follower 260 reaches the Figures 18 to 20 position). Then, when the movable guide rail 201 continues to move downward (i.e., moves to the Figure 17 and Figure 21 positions), the top cover 266 can guide the lateral inward movement of the follower 260 toward the front-facing surface 262 of the base guide rail 209. Thus, when the movable guide rail 201 contracts, the ladder 200 can automatically fold and stow the stabilizer mechanism 212. The folded stabilizer mechanism 212 can store potential energy in the biasing member, thereby enabling further expansion and deployment actions when the ladder 200 is re-extended.

[0084] In various embodiments, the ladder 200 can include one or two stabilizer mechanisms 212, such as one stabilizer mechanism on each side of the ladder 200 or one stabilizer mechanism on only one of its sides. The stabilizer mechanism 212 can be independently deployable and stowable. It has been combined with Figures 10 to 23Describes elements and features of ladder 200 that may be used in combination with, or in place of, features described in connection with other embodiments referenced herein. Thus, Figures 10 to 23 The illustrated embodiments should be understood as example embodiments having various features that may be used alone or as components / groups of components of assemblies and mechanisms.

[0085] Figures 24 to 26 Illustrates a rear isometric view of features of ladder 300, which has a first assembly 302 and a second assembly 306 similar to the first and second assemblies of ladders 100 and 200. The first assembly 302 may include a pair of spaced-apart movable rails 301 and rungs 303 coupled to and extending between the rails 301, and the second assembly 306 may include a pair of spaced-apart base rails 309 and rungs 311 similarly coupled to and extending between the rails 309. Ladder 300 may include a pair of stabilizer mechanisms 312 having struts 314 pivotally engaged to brackets 318 positioned laterally inward of the movable rails 301. The struts 314 may include a pivot axis angled relative to the longitudinal axis of the movable rails 301 (e.g., as Figure 24 shown by the dashed line in). The pivot axis may be angled downward relative to the horizontal plane or relative to the plane in which the rungs 303, 309 are positioned.

[0086] Figure 24 Shows the upper end of ladder 300 in a retracted state, where the struts 314 are positioned between the base / rear rung 311 and the front guard 320. In some embodiments, the front rung 303 may be used in place of, or in addition to, the front guard 320. The front guard 320 may have a different front-to-rear depth and appearance than the front rung 303 to indicate to the user that it is not intended to be used as a step or foothold. The front guard 320 may limit the forward rotation of the stabilizer mechanism 312 such that the struts 314 do not pivot past the front plane in which the two movable rails 301 are located.

[0087] At Figure 24 the retracted / folded position, the struts 314 are also positioned in front of the rear plane of the base rails 309, thereby ensuring that the stabilizer mechanisms 312 are fully contained within the volume envelope of the first assembly 302 and the second assembly 306. Ladder 300 thus has a maximum width defined by the rails 301, 309 rather than (at least in part) by the stabilizer mechanisms 312, thereby improving the portability and storage / transport size profile of ladder 300. Thus, the stabilizer mechanisms 312 may also be protected from damage by a “cage” of components including the first assembly 302 and the second assembly 306.

[0088] The struts 314 can each pivot at the brackets 318 (either directly attached to or integrated into the movable guide 301), while having a free end with feet 317 that can be displaced relative to the support surface. In some embodiments, the struts 314 can be configured to tilt backward by gravity and thus tilt toward the rear rung 311. In some embodiments, the struts 314 can be biased backward by a biasing mechanism (e.g., a torsion spring similar to spring 234 or a linear spring such as biasing member 134), such as a biasing mechanism at the bracket 318, which applies a moment to the strut 314 that drives the foot 317 backward through rotation about the pivot axis of the strut 314 at the bracket 318. The rotation of the strut 314 can be restricted or prevented due to the rear rung 311 being in a blocking position behind the strut 314.

[0089] When the first assembly 302 is displaced to extend over the second assembly 306, the bracket 318 can move longitudinally upward relative to the rear rung 311, and the strut 314 can thus begin to tilt backward from the rear rung 311, as Figure 25 shown in the transition position. In this state, the weight of the strut 314 or the biasing force applied to the strut can push the strut 314 into contact with the rung 311 to at least partially lie above the rung 311 and rotate about the pivot axis at the bracket 318.

[0090] When the first assembly 302 is further displaced relative to the second assembly 306, the strut 314 can rotate fully (e.g., until the downward-facing surface of the strut 314 engages the upward-facing surface or pin of the bracket 318), as Figure 26 shown. In the fully rotated position, due to the angled orientation of the pivot axis at the bracket 318 and due to the bend 322 midway along its length in the strut 314, the strut 314 can extend backward and outward relative to the rear side of the movable guide 301. The bend 322 can ensure that the first portion (i.e., the proximal portion) of each strut 314 is perpendicular to the pivot axis of the strut 314, while the second portion (i.e., the distal portion) of each strut 314 is angled relative to the first portion and is more parallel to the guide 301 than the first portion when in the retracted configuration. When fully deployed, the bend 322 can ensure that the feet 317 are laterally positioned outside the width of the movable guide 301 and behind the first assembly 302. Additionally, the bracket 318 and the strut 314 can be configured such that the strut 314 deploys to a partially longitudinally downward angled position, as Figure 26As shown, in this case, the force applied to the foot 317 pushes the foot 317 downward and forward (i.e., toward the fully deployed state) rather than upward and forward (i.e., toward the folded or stored state). In other words, the foot 317 can rotate from its initial position above the bracket 318 to a position below the bracket 318. Thus, the stabilizer mechanism 312 can support the upper end of the ladder 300 on the support surface without immediately contracting toward the folded configuration.

[0091] When the ladder 300 transitions from the deployed state toward the retracted position, the movable guide rail 301 moves downward until the downward-facing surface of the strut 314 engages the topmost rung 311 of the base assembly 306. The contact between the rung 311 and the strut 314 pushes the strut 314 upward to Figure 25 the position, thereby overcoming any biasing force exerted by the biasing member or by the weight of the strut 314. The angled pivot axis and the bend 322 also cause the foot 317 to rotate laterally inward and forward. Eventually, the rung 311 moves to Figure 24 the position where the strut 314 is again fully retracted and folded within the guide rails 301, 309, the front guard 320 (or rung 303), and the rung 311.

[0092] In various embodiments, the ladder 300 can include one or two stabilizer mechanisms 312, such as having one stabilizer mechanism on each side of the ladder 300 or having one stabilizer mechanism on only one of its sides. The stabilizer mechanism 312 can be independently deployable and retractable. The elements and features of the ladder 300 have been described in connection with Figures 24 to 26 and these elements and features can be used in combination with the features described in connection with other embodiments referenced herein, or instead of the features described in connection with other embodiments referenced herein. Thus, Figures 24 to 26 the embodiments shown should be understood as exemplary embodiments having various features that can be used alone or as components / groups of components and mechanisms.

[0093] Figures 27 to 31Illustrates various views of a ladder 400 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The ladder 400 illustrates alternative stabilizer components that provide some of the functions and capabilities of the stabilizer mechanisms (e.g., 112, 212) similar to those disclosed herein. The ladder 400 may include a movable rail 401, a base rail 409, front rungs (e.g., 403), rear rungs (e.g., 411), an adjustment mechanism 407, and feet 405, whose functions may be similar or identical to the similarly numbered components in the ladder 100. In the ladder 400, the stabilizer mechanism 412 may be separate and individually deployable to allow the top end of the ladder 400 to be supported by (i) one stabilizer mechanism 412 (and, for example, another part of the ladder 400, such as a rail), (ii) two stabilizer mechanisms 412 at the same deployment angle, (iii) two stabilizer mechanisms 412 deployed at different angles, or (iv) no stabilizer mechanism 412 (e.g., supported only by a rail or other ladder components). The stabilizer mechanism 412 may also be manually operated by a handle assembly 434 located at the bottom section of the movable rail 401. Thus, in some cases, the stabilizer mechanism 412 may not be automatically deployable or retractable. However, in some cases, the stabilizer mechanism 412 may be spring-loaded or otherwise biased (e.g., using a spring similar to 134) in a manner similar to the embodiment of Figure 3 . The stabilizer mechanism 412 may be a stabilizer assembly of the stabilizer components.

[0094] Figure 27 Shows an isometric view of the ladder 400 with the stabilizer mechanism 412 in a partially deployed state. Figure 28A Shows the stabilizer mechanism 412 separated from the rest of the ladder 400, and Figure 28B Shows a detailed view of certain parts of the stabilizer mechanism 412. The stabilizer mechanisms 412 may be mirror versions of each other, as Figure 28A shown. Thus, the stabilizer mechanism 412 on the left side of the user facing the front of the ladder 400 may be deployed from the left side of the movable rail 401, and the stabilizer mechanism 412 on the opposite / right side may be deployed from the right side of the rail 401. Each stabilizer mechanism 412 may include a strut 414, a link member 416, a first bracket 418, and a second bracket 424. The strut 414 may be rotatably coupled to the first bracket 418 for movement between various deployment positions or storage positions. The first bracket 418 may be directly coupled to and fixed in place with respect to the rail (e.g., 401), where the first bracket 418 does not move relative to the rail when the stabilizer mechanism 412 is operated. The link member 416 may be directly pivotally coupled to the strut 414 and the second bracket 424 at its opposite ends, respectively.

[0095] The second bracket 424 may include a channel 426 for at least partially receiving a guide rail (e.g., 401). See Figures 28B to 29B . Accordingly, the second bracket 424 may include an inner wall 428 and an outer wall 430, each of which includes an inner surface defining the shape of the channel 426. See Figure 28B . Thus, similar to the second bracket 124, the second bracket 424 may slide longitudinally along the guide rail. When the second bracket 424 is longitudinally translated along the guide rail, the link member 416 may pivot about its pivot axis (at and through the first bracket 418) to its various deployed or retracted positions. Additionally, because the shape of the channel 426 at least partially receives the C-shaped or U-shaped flange and / or web of the guide rail, lateral removal of the second bracket 424 from the guide rail, such as slipping or twisting off the guide rail, may be prevented, ensuring that the stabilizer mechanism 412 does not accidentally disengage from the ladder 400. The second bracket 424 may be initially mounted on the guide rail by sliding the end of the guide rail into the channel 426 and then moving the second bracket 424 to its final assembled position. Alternatively, the bracket 424 may include multiple parts that are assembled to form the walls 428, 430 and the channel 426 around the guide rail.

[0096] The control rod 432 of the stabilizer mechanism 412 may have a top end coupled (e.g., directly coupled) to the second bracket 424. The control rod 432 may extend longitudinally downward along and parallel to the guide rail until it is directly coupled to the gripping body 436 of the handle assembly 434 at the bottom end of the stabilizer mechanism 412. The control rod 432 may be held within a channel formed laterally outside of the guide rail (e.g., 401). The control rod 432 may be substantially rigid and straight, for example by including a metal (e.g., aluminum) or composite material (e.g., fiberglass or carbon fiber composite material) that is formed and shaped to resist bending and buckling in the lateral direction (i.e., perpendicular to the elongate longitudinal axis of the control rod 432). For example, the control rod 432 may have a cross-sectional profile in the shape of a rectangle, oval, circle, U-beam, or I-beam. A user may apply a longitudinal force to the control rod 432 via the handle assembly 434 to longitudinally move the second bracket 424 relative to the guide rail, thereby extending or retracting the strut 414 via the link member 416. Separate control rods 432 and handle assemblies 434 may be provided on each side of the ladder 400 such that a user can independently adjust each of the stabilizer mechanisms 412, such as by deploying the strut 414 on one side while the other strut 414 remains fixed, or by deploying each strut to a different angular displacement relative to its respective guide rail 401.

[0097] Each handle assembly 434 may include a grip body 436 and a latch member 438. The grip body 436 may include a longitudinal channel 440 to receive a flange or web profile of the guide rail 401 in a manner similar to channel 426. See Figures 28B to 29B . Accordingly, the grip body 436 may longitudinally slide along the guide rail 401 together with the control lever 432. The top and bottom ends of the grip body 436 may flare outwardly to assist a user's hand in applying longitudinal upward or downward pressure to the handle assembly 434 when adjusting the stabilizer mechanism 412. The grip body 436 may also include at least one opening 442 configured to receive a pivot pin 444 (see Figures 29A to 29B ) or a fastener that pivotally couples the latch member 438 to the grip body 436. Thus, a user may hold the grip body 436 while a portion of their hand also surrounds the latch member 438.

[0098] Figure 29A A front cross-sectional view of the handle assembly 434 taken along section line 29-29 through Figure 28B is shown. The flange portion of the guide rail 401 in the channel 440 is also shown for reference. The handle assembly 434 may include a bracket 446 directly coupled to the grip body 436. In some examples, the bracket 446 may be attached to the grip body 436, and in some cases, the bracket 446 may be integrally formed with the grip body 436 as one piece.

[0099] The latch member 438 may include a recess 448 that faces the bracket 446 and is configured to receive and retain a biasing member 450 (e.g., a spring) between the latch member 438 and the bracket 446. The biasing member 450 may apply a laterally outwardly directed force to the latch member 438 to laterally bias the bottom end of the latch member 438 and rotate it about the pivot pin 444 to Figure 29A the position shown (e.g., away from the centerline of the ladder 400). In Figure 29A this position, a locking pin 452 that extends laterally inwardly from the latch member 438 (i.e., toward the substantially vertical centerline of the ladder 400) is positioned to pass through a hole 454 in the guide rail 401, thereby preventing the handle assembly 434 from longitudinally moving (e.g., sliding) relative to the guide rail 401. In Figure 29A the configuration shown, the latch member 438 may thus be referred to as being in a locked position relative to the grip body 436 and the guide rail 401. The locked position may also be referred to as a stationary position where no clamping force sufficient to overcome the biasing force of the biasing member 450 is applied and the latch member 438 is at rest.

[0100] In response to a laterally inwardly directed force on the latch member 438, such as a hand clamping or squeezing the latch member 438 toward the grip body 436, the biasing member 450 can be compressed and the latch member 438 can rotate the locking pin 452 out of the hole 454, as Figure 29B shown. Accordingly, the handle assembly 434 can be enabled to move or slide relative to the guide rail 401, and Figure 29B the latch member 438 in the configuration of

[0101] can be referred to as being in an unlocked position or a compressed position relative to the grip body 436 and the guide rail 401. Due to this functionality, the handle assembly 434 can be referred to as a rocking handle or a rockable grip.

[0102] The rocking handle and the pin 452 can provide convenience and ease of use (e.g., single-handed operation). In some configurations understood by those skilled in the art and those benefiting from the present disclosure, the latch member 438 can be omitted and a separate, removable pin, hook, fastener, nail, clip, upright hook, or other latch can be used to secure the grip body 436 to the guide rail 401 by passing through aligned holes in the guide rail and the grip body, and the removable device can be removed from at least one of the aligned holes to allow the grip body 436 to slide relative to the guide rail 401. Figure 28A and Figure 28B FIGS.

[0103] The control lever 432 can also be coupled to a sliding support bracket 456 that is coupled to the guide rail 401. See

[0104] Additional holes (e.g., 455, similar to 454) may be positioned at various spaced longitudinal positions along the length of the guide rail 401 such that the locking pin 452 can lock the stabilizer mechanism 412 in various different positions relative to the guide rail 401. For example, the first locking position of the handle assembly 434 may correspond to the retracted position of the strut 414 (e.g., similar to Figure 1 's position), the second locking position may correspond to the wall support position of the strut 414 (e.g., as shown in Figure 27 and Figure 30 ), the third locking position may correspond to the roof support position of the strut 414 (e.g., as shown in Figure 31 ), and additional locking positions may correspond to other strut states. Thus, the multiple locking positions of each stabilizer mechanism 412 may allow for various different support conditions for the ladder 400, where the strut 414 can provide support (or may not provide support, such as when the ladder 400 is supported by one or more guide rails 401) at various angles from the guide rail 401.

[0105] Figure 30 Illustrates Figure 27 a side view of the ladder 400. The ladder 400 may include locking positions of the strut 414 such that the ladder 400 can be supported (e.g., tilted) against a vertical surface 500 only by the strut 414 at the top portion of the ladder 400, while the feet 405 are positioned on a horizontal ground support surface 502 and while the guide rails (e.g., 401, 409) form an angle of about 75 degrees (e.g., 504) with respect to the ground. In some embodiments, the angle 504 may be in the range of about 65 degrees to about 85 degrees, such as when the ground slopes gently upward or downward (e.g., up to about plus or minus 10 degrees). Thus, due to the size and positioning of the strut 414 relative to the size and position of the guide rail 401, the ladder 400 can be supported on the vertical surface 500 without the guide rail 401 contacting the vertical surface 500. An air gap 506 may be formed between the vertical surface 500 and the top end of the guide rail 401. Such a wall support configuration may enable the ladder 400 to be used in positions where contacting the vertical surface between the struts 414 may be undesirable, such as when the guide rail 401 would contact a window, paint, or other fragile or sensitive surface but the strut 414 would not contact the surface.

[0106] Figure 31 Similar to Figure 30 's side view, but shows the stabilizer mechanism 412 in a different deployment state. Compared to the partially deployed / wall support state of Figure 30 , the handle assembly 434 is longitudinally translated upward along the guide rail 401, and the strut 414 thus also extends to form a larger angle 602 between the strut 414 and the guide rail 401, while the guide rail 401 forms the same angle (e.g., 504) with the ground (or within the same angle range), as described above in connection withFigure 30 As described. In some embodiments, the strut 414 can be moved relative to the guide rail to a maximum angle 602 of about 90 degrees. In some embodiments, the strut 414 can extend to a maximum angle 602 of about 80 to about 85 degrees away from the guide rail. Limiting the range to positions less than 90 degrees can help ensure that the strut 414 does not jam when fully extended, and thus remains retractable to its retracted position when needed.

[0107] When fully extended or at a relatively large displacement angle 602, the strut 414 can enable the ladder 400 to be supported by an inclined upward-facing surface 600 on an elevated structure such as a roof or awning, while the guide rails 401, 409 do not contact the elevated structure, as Figure 31 shown. This configuration can limit or prevent the ladder 400 from pressing against a fragile edge or side structure on the elevated structure, such as a gutter, paint, or light at the edge where the roof is contacted. Thus, a gap 604 can be formed between the edge of the roof and the nearest guide rail of the ladder 400. In some embodiments, the size and positioning of the strut 414 can allow for support on various roof slopes, such as a 2 / 12 pitch top surface (e.g., rising 2 inches per 12-inch span or at an angle of about 9.4 degrees to the horizontal plane) or a 6 / 12 pitch surface (e.g., rising 6 inches per 12-inch span or at an angle of about 26.5 degrees to the horizontal plane). The positioning of the stabilizer mechanism 412 can be appropriately adjusted according to various roof slope conditions such that the base angle of the ladder 400 (e.g., 504) remains within a preferred range.

[0108] The strut 414 can also be coupled to the ladder 400 at the first bracket 418, and the coupling position is displaced downward from the upper end of the end of the guide rail 401. For example, the first bracket 418 can be positioned about two feet below the upper end of the end, such that when the strut 414 is fully extended, at least two feet of the guide rail 401 extends upward above any surface against which the strut 414 supports the ladder. In some embodiments, the ladder 400 can be configured to have a guide rail length that extends at least three feet above the edge of a nearby roof or other elevated inclined structure when the strut 414 is extended to its maximum extent and contacts its top inclined surface. In some embodiments, when the guide rail 401 is within a preferred angle range (e.g., 504) relative to the ground, the ladder 400 can include at least three (in some cases, four or more) rungs that are positioned at the same level or higher than the contact point between the fully extended strut 414 and the inclined surface (e.g., 600). The dimension from the roof line to the top of the ladder (e.g., 606) can reach or exceed about three feet to facilitate the movement of the user from climbing the ladder 400 to standing on the roof 600 by ensuring that the top ends of the movable guide rail 401 extend high enough above the roof 600 for the user to use these top ends as a grip or handle when leaving the ladder to step onto the roof 600 or when stepping off the ladder from the roof.

[0109] The present document has described various inventions with reference to certain specific embodiments and examples. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the inventions disclosed herein, as the inventions set forth in the following claims are intended to cover all variations and modifications of the disclosed inventions without departing from the spirit of the inventions. The terms "comprising" and "having" as used in the specification and claims shall have the same meaning as the term "including".

Claims

1. A ladder, comprising: A first component, the first component including a first pair of guide rails and a first plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the first pair of guide rails; A second component, the second component including a second pair of guide rails and a second plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the second pair of guide rails, the second pair of guide rails being displaceable relative to the first pair of guide rails between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration; And A stabilizer mechanism, the stabilizer mechanism being mounted to at least one of the first pair of guide rails and including: A strut having a top end and a bottom end, the top end being pivotally coupled to the at least one guide rail on a lateral outer side of the at least one guide rail; And A biasing member, wherein in response to displacement of the first pair of guide rails from the retracted configuration to the extended configuration, the biasing member applies a force to the stabilizer mechanism to pivot the strut at the top end to extend the bottom end outwardly relative to the at least one guide rail.

2. The ladder according to claim 1, wherein the stabilizer mechanism further comprises: A link member pivotally coupled to the strut; And A pivot bracket slidably coupled to the at least one of the first pair of guide rails and pivotally coupled to the link member.

3. The ladder according to claim 2, wherein the biasing member is configured to apply the force to the pivot bracket to pivot the support post via the link member.

4. The ladder according to claim 2, wherein the stabilizer mechanism further comprises: A second strut pivotally coupled to a second guide rail of the first pair of guide rails; A second link member pivotally coupled to the second strut; And A second bracket slidably coupled to the second guide rail and pivotally coupled to the second link member.

5. The ladder according to claim 4, wherein the stabilizer mechanism further comprises a cross - connecting member coupling the pivot bracket and the second bracket.

6. The ladder according to claim 1, wherein when the support post is in the retracted configuration, the support post is substantially parallel to the at least one guide rail.

7. The ladder according to claim 1, wherein the pivot axis of the support post is oriented at a non - orthogonal angle with respect to the plane in which the first pair of guide rails lies.

8. The ladder according to claim 1, wherein the support post is configured to rotate laterally outwardly with respect to the at least one guide rail.

9. The ladder according to claim 1, wherein the biasing member is directly coupled to the at least one guide rail.

10. The ladder according to claim 1, further comprising an inclined surface formed on the at least one guide rail, wherein the support post is configured to pivot into contact with the inclined surface.

11. The ladder according to claim 10, wherein the inclined surface comprises a surface configured to resist movement of the support post away from the retracted configuration.

12. A ladder, comprising: A first component, the first component including a first pair of guide rails and a first plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the first pair of guide rails; A second component, the second component including a second pair of guide rails and a second plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the second pair of guide rails, the second pair of guide rails being displaceable relative to the first pair of guide rails between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration; And A stabilizer mechanism, the stabilizer mechanism being mounted to at least one of the first pair of guide rails and including: A strut having a first end and a second end, the first end being pivotally coupled to at least one of the first pair of guide rails; A link member pivotally coupled to the strut; A bracket slidably coupled to the at least one guide rail; A handle assembly slidably coupled to the at least one guide rail and coupled to the bracket, wherein a sliding movement of the handle assembly is configured to pivot the strut via the bracket and via the link member.

13. The ladder according to claim 12, wherein the handle assembly includes a grip body and a latch member coupled to the grip body, the latch member being movable between a first position that locks the grip body relative to the at least one guide rail and a second position that permits the grip body to move relative to the at least one guide rail.

14. The ladder according to claim 13, wherein the latch member is lockable relative to the at least one guide rail in a plurality of spaced-apart positions on the at least one guide rail.

15. The ladder according to claim 12, wherein the stabilizer mechanism further includes a rod that connects the handle assembly to the carriage.

16. The ladder according to claim 15, wherein the stabilizer mechanism further includes a support bracket coupled to the at least one guide rail and the rod.

17. The ladder according to claim 12, wherein the strut is a first strut, and the ladder further includes a second stabilizer mechanism, the second stabilizer mechanism including: A second strut pivotally coupled to a second guide rail of the first pair of guide rails; A second link member pivotally coupled to the second strut; And A second bracket slidably coupled to the second guide rail; Wherein the second strut is deployable to a first angular displacement relative to the second guide rail while the first strut is deployable to a second angular displacement relative to the at least one guide rail.

18. A stabilizer mechanism for a ladder, the stabilizer mechanism including: A support pillar having an end pivotally attached to a guide rail; A carriage slidably attachable to the guide rail; A link member having a first end pivotally attached to the support pillar and a second end pivotally attached to the carriage, wherein movement of the carriage relative to the end of the support pillar is configured to rotate the support pillar via the link member; And A handle assembly slidably attachable to the guide rail and coupled to the carriage.

19. The stabilizer mechanism according to claim 18, wherein the carriage forms a channel configured to receive a web or flange portion of the guide rail.

20. The stabilizer mechanism according to claim 18, wherein the handle assembly includes a latch member configured to lock the handle assembly relative to the guide rail.

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