Multifunctional folding ladder
By designing a multifunctional folding ladder that integrates the functions of a ladder, a handcart, and a flatbed trolley, the problem of the traditional folding ladder having only one function is solved, achieving multifunctionality, saving costs and space, and improving usage efficiency.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-03-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-06
AI Technical Summary
Traditional folding ladders have a single function, requiring the separate purchase of the folding ladder, handcart, and flatbed trolley, which increases economic costs and space occupation, and makes management complicated.
Design a multifunctional folding ladder that integrates the functions of a ladder, a handcart, and a flatbed trolley. The function can be converted through a hinged or pivotal structure, and stability and flexibility can be achieved by using angle-limiting hooks and casters, providing folding storage.
It achieves multifunctionality, reduces economic costs, saves storage space, improves efficiency, and is easy to operate.
Smart Images
Figure CN223975100U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to a folding ladder, and more particularly to a multifunctional folding ladder. Background Technology
[0002] In modern life, people's needs for various tools are becoming increasingly diverse, especially in home, office and some small business settings, where space utilization and tool functionality are receiving more and more attention.
[0003] Traditional folding ladders are widely used in daily life. Their design primarily focuses on meeting the needs of climbing, featuring easy folding and storage, providing convenience for users in scenarios such as changing light bulbs or retrieving items from high places. However, the function of these traditional folding ladders is extremely limited, merely serving as a tool for climbing.
[0004] Moving items is a frequent activity in daily life. When moving small goods, furniture, or heavy objects, handcarts and flatbed carts can greatly reduce the burden and improve efficiency. However, currently, handcarts and flatbed carts are separate tools from folding ladders. This means that consumers who want to meet the different needs of climbing and moving items must purchase folding ladders, handcarts, and flatbed carts separately. This undoubtedly increases economic costs significantly, and for families and small businesses with limited budgets, the cost of purchasing multiple tools is a considerable expense.
[0005] From a space utilization perspective, these individual tools require storage space when not in use. For urban families with limited living space, as well as small offices and shops with already limited space, storing multiple tools further reduces available space, making space planning more complex and difficult. Moreover, storing and managing these scattered tools increases the user's time and effort costs; people need to spend time finding suitable storage locations and ensuring that the tools can be used normally when needed.
[0006] In conclusion, the limitations of existing folding ladders, as well as the increased costs and space requirements associated with purchasing separate handcarts and flatbed carts, urgently necessitate an innovative solution to meet people's demand for multifunctional and space-efficient tools. Utility Model Content
[0007] The present invention addresses the aforementioned shortcomings by providing a multifunctional folding ladder.
[0008] The above-mentioned objective of this utility model is achieved through the following technical solution: A multifunctional folding ladder includes a main support and a folding frame. The upper end of the folding frame is hinged or pivotally connected to the upper part of the main support, allowing the folding frame to rotate relative to the main support. The main support is provided with several flip-up and foldable ladder steps. One end of each ladder step is hinged or pivotally connected to the main support, and the other end is hinged or pivotally connected to a synchronous connecting rod. This design allows the ladder steps to flip and fold synchronously under the action of the synchronous connecting rod, facilitating storage. The folding frame is provided with a crossbeam, and an angle-limiting hook is pivotally connected to the bottom of the top ladder step. When using the ladder function, the angle-limiting hook can freely rotate and hook onto the crossbeam, thereby limiting the opening angle of the folding frame. At the same time, when the top ladder step is unfolded, it can rest on the crossbeam, ensuring the stability of the ladder when the user is climbing.
[0009] Furthermore, the angle limiting hook includes a swing rod, one end of which is hinged or pivotally connected to a connecting seat located at the bottom of the top ladder step, and the other end of which is provided with a C-shaped hook. The opening of the C-shaped hook is provided with a manual switch for locking and closing the opening of the C-shaped hook. A torsion spring is provided between the manual switch and the swing rod. Under the action of the torsion spring, the manual switch maintains the locked state of closing the opening of the C-shaped hook.
[0010] Flatbed trolley functional structure: The main support frame is equipped with a set of casters, which provide the foundation for realizing the flatbed trolley function. An angle-limiting folding linkage is installed between the main support frame and the folding frame. When the flatbed trolley function is needed, first release the angle-limiting hooks, then fold the ladder steps, and then open the folding frame to its maximum angle. When the angle-limiting folding linkage is fully extended, the folding frame is at its maximum angle, at which point the multi-functional folding ladder can be used as a flatbed trolley for convenient transport of items. Four casters are preferred, one on the upper and one on the lower sides of the main support frame. This layout ensures greater stability of the flatbed trolley during transport. The casters can be swivel casters (universal casters) for easy steering; fixed casters (directional casters) suitable for straight-line transport; or swivel casters with brakes for securing the flatbed trolley when needed.
[0011] Handcart Functional Structure: The lower end of the folding frame has a foldable support frame, and the top of the main support frame has a handrail. When the handcart function is needed, the folding frame and ladder steps are folded up, and the foldable support frame is unfolded. At this time, the user can pull the handrail at the top of the main support frame to use the handcart function for moving small items.
[0012] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of this utility model are:
[0013] 1. Multifunctionality: Through its unique structural design, it can be converted into three functions: folding ladder, handcart, and flatbed cart, meeting the user's needs in different scenarios and greatly improving the tool's practicality.
[0014] 2. Cost savings: Users do not need to purchase folding ladders, handcarts and flatbed carts separately. They only need to purchase this multi-functional folding ladder to meet various needs, thus reducing economic costs.
[0015] 3. Space saving: The multi-functional folding ladder can be folded and stored when not in use, which greatly saves storage space compared to multiple separate tools, making it especially suitable for homes and offices with limited space.
[0016] 4. Easy to use: The switching between various functions is simple and convenient, allowing users to get started easily and improving efficiency. Attached Figure Description
[0017] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of one side of the present invention, which is in the form of a ladder.
[0018] Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the other side of the present invention, which is in the form of a ladder.
[0019] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model in the form of a flatbed cart.
[0020] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model in the form of a hand-pulled cart.
[0021] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of this utility model in a folded state.
[0022] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the angle-limiting hook in this utility model. Detailed Implementation
[0023] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0024] Example 1:
[0025] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown in this embodiment, the multifunctional folding ladder mainly consists of a main support 1, a folding frame 2, ladder steps 3, a synchronous connecting rod 4, an angle limiting hook 5, a crossbeam 6, casters 7, an angle limiting folding connecting rod 8, a foldable support frame 9, and a handrail 10.
[0026] Both the main support 1 and the folding frame 2 are made of aluminum alloy. Aluminum alloy is lightweight and high-strength, which can reduce the overall weight while ensuring structural stability and facilitating operation. The upper end of the folding frame 2 is hinged or pivotally connected to the upper part of the main support 1. This hinged design allows the folding frame 2 to rotate flexibly relative to the main support 1.
[0027] Three foldable ladder steps 3 are evenly distributed on the main support 1. One end of each ladder step 3 is hinged or pivotally connected to the main support 1, and the other end is pivotally connected to the synchronous connecting rod 4. This connection method allows the three ladder steps 3 to simultaneously fold and flip under the action of the synchronous connecting rod 4 during operation, facilitating storage and unfolding. The angle limiting hook 5 is made of metal, possessing high strength and good wear resistance. Figure 6 As shown, the angle-limiting hook 5 includes a swing rod 501. One end of the swing rod 501 is hinged or pivotally connected to a connecting seat 11 located at the bottom of the top ladder step 3. The other end of the swing rod 501 is provided with a C-shaped hook 502. The opening 503 of the C-shaped hook 502 is provided with a manual switch 504 for locking and closing the opening of the C-shaped hook. A torsion spring (not shown in the figure) is provided between the manual switch 504 and the swing rod. Under the action of the torsion spring, the manual switch 504 maintains the locked state of closing the opening of the C-shaped hook. Corresponding to the angle-limiting hook, the folding frame 2 is provided with a crossbeam 6. In particular, when the top ladder step 3 is unfolded, its front end can accurately rest on the crossbeam 6 on the folding frame 2.
[0028] When the user is ready to use the ladder function, the folding frame 2 is opened. As the folding frame 2 unfolds, the top ladder step 3 falls naturally under the action of gravity and the synchronous linkage 4 until its front end rests stably on the crossbeam 6. At the same time, the angle limiting hook 5 can also be hooked on the crossbeam 6. The two work together to effectively limit the opening angle of the folding frame 2 and ensure the stability of the ladder when the user is climbing.
[0029] A set of casters 7 is installed on the main support 1. In this embodiment, four movable casters with brakes are selected, one on the upper part and one on the lower part of each side of the main support 1. The movable casters with brakes facilitate flexible turning during transportation and can be fixed by the braking device when needed, improving the convenience and safety of use. An angle limiting folding linkage 8 is provided between the main support 1 and the folding frame 2 to limit the maximum opening angle of the folding frame 2 when used as a flatbed cart.
[0030] The lower end of the folding frame 2 is equipped with a foldable support frame 9, and the top of the main support frame 1 is equipped with a handrail 10.
[0031] like Figure 1 , Figure 2As shown, when using the ladder function, the folding frame 2 is opened and the angle limiting hook 5 is hooked onto the crossbeam 6. At this time, the user can use the three ladder steps 3 to perform high-altitude operations, such as changing light bulbs at high places or retrieving items from high cabinets.
[0032] like Figure 3 As shown, when the flatbed trolley function is needed, first release the angle-limiting hook 5, then flip and fold the three ladder steps 3 upwards, place the casters 7 on the ground, and then open the folding frame 2. As the angle-limiting folding linkage 8 gradually unfolds, the opening angle of the folding frame 2 is the maximum angle when it reaches the fully unfolded state. At this time, place items on the folding frame 2, and pull or push the multi-functional folding ladder by holding the folding frame 2 to use it as a flatbed trolley, capable of moving heavy objects such as small furniture and boxed goods.
[0033] like Figure 4 As shown, to use the trolley function, first fold the folding frame 2 and the three ladder steps 3. At this time, the angle limiting hook 5 can be hooked onto the crossbeam 6 or unhooked, without affecting the trolley function. Then unfold the foldable support frame 9. Users can use this multi-functional folding ladder to move small items, such as handbags, small toolboxes, etc., by pulling on the handrail 10 at the top of the main support 1.
[0034] like Figure 5 As shown, when folding for storage, if previously used as a flatbed cart, simply fold the folding frame 2 towards the main support 1, and the angle-limiting folding linkage 8 will gradually retract. Then, hook the angle-limiting hook 5 onto the crossbeam 6. If previously used as a ladder, simply fold up the ladder steps 3; the folding frame 2 will simultaneously fold towards the main support 1 under the action of the angle-limiting hook 5. If previously used as a handcart, simply fold up the foldable support frame 9 to complete the folding process. After folding, the multi-functional folding ladder forms a compact shape, effectively saving space and allowing it to be placed in corners, behind doors, or other locations with limited space.
[0035] Example 2:
[0036] like Figures 1 to 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the multifunctional folding ladder mainly consists of a main support 1, a folding frame 2, ladder steps 3, a synchronous connecting rod 4, an angle limiting hook 5, a crossbeam 6, casters 7, an angle limiting folding connecting rod 8, a foldable support frame 9, and a handrail 10.
[0037] The main support 1 and the folding frame 2 are made of stainless steel, which has excellent corrosion resistance and is suitable for places with relatively humid or corrosive environments, such as houses by the sea and working areas of chemical plants. The folding frame 2 is hinged or pivotally connected to the upper part of the main support 1, ensuring that the folding frame 2 can rotate smoothly relative to the main support 1.
[0038] Three anti-slip ladder steps 3 are distributed on the main support 1. One end of each ladder step 3 is hinged or pivoted to the main support 1, and the other end is hinged or pivoted to the synchronous link 4. The anti-slip texture design on the surface of the ladder step 3 effectively increases friction, ensuring the safety of the user when climbing, and reducing the risk of slipping even when wet or with foreign objects on the soles of shoes. The angle limiting hook 5 is made of a high-strength and wear-resistant plastic material, which can appropriately reduce the overall weight while ensuring performance. It is hinged or pivoted to the bottom of the top ladder step 3 and cooperates with the crossbeam 6 on the folding frame 2. When the user activates the ladder function and opens the folding frame 2, the top ladder step 3 is driven by gravity and the synchronous link 4 to rest stably on the crossbeam 6. At the same time, the angle limiting hook 5 is hooked on the crossbeam 6, limiting the opening angle of the folding frame 2.
[0039] The casters 7 are swivel casters, which are extremely flexible in steering and easy to operate in narrow spaces or complex environments. The four swivel casters 7 are respectively installed on the upper and lower parts of both sides of the main support 1. An angle limiting folding linkage 8 is provided between the main support 1 and the folding frame 2 to limit the maximum opening angle of the folding frame 2 when used as a flatbed cart.
[0040] The foldable support frame 9 at the lower end of the folding frame 2 serves its purpose when using the trolley function. The handrail 10 at the top of the main support 1 is convenient for the user to hold, so that it can be used to pull the multi-functional folding ladder or as a trolley.
[0041] In practical use, when used as a ladder, after unfolding the folding frame 2 and attaching the angle limiting hook 5, the user can safely climb for high-altitude work. When converted to flatbed cart function, after following the steps, the omnidirectional casters 7 allow for easy handling of items through various narrow passages or turns. In handcart mode, unfolding the foldable support frame 9 and the handrail 10 allows for convenient handling of small items, meeting the needs of different daily scenarios.
[0042] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present invention, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.
Claims
1. A multi-functional folding ladder comprising a main support and a folding support, characterized in that: The upper end of the folding frame is hinged or pivoted to the upper part of the main support, the main support is provided with a plurality of foldable ladder steps, each ladder step is hinged to the main support at one end and is hingedly or pivotally connected to a synchronous connecting rod at the other end, the folding frame is provided with a cross beam, the bottom of the topmost ladder step is hingedly or pivotally connected to an angle limiting hook, when the ladder is used, the angle limiting hook is freely hung on the cross beam to limit the opening angle of the folding frame, and the topmost ladder step can be placed on the cross beam when it is unfolded.
2. The multi-functional folding ladder of claim 1, wherein: The angle limiting hook comprises a swing rod, one end of the swing rod is hingedly or pivotally connected to a connecting seat provided at the bottom of the topmost ladder step, the other end of the swing rod is provided with a C-shaped hook, an opening of the C-shaped hook is provided with a manual switch for locking and closing the opening of the C-shaped hook, and a torsional spring is arranged between the manual switch and the swing rod.
3. The multi-functional folding ladder of claim 1, wherein: The main support is provided with a set of casters, and an angle limiting folding connecting rod is arranged between the main support and the folding frame.
4. The multi-functional folding ladder of claim 3, wherein: The four casters are arranged on the upper part and the lower part of the two sides of the main support.
5. The multi-functional folding ladder of claim 3, wherein: The casters are movable casters, fixed casters or movable casters with brakes.
6. The multi-functional folding ladder of claim 1, wherein: The lower end of the folding frame is provided with a foldable supporting frame, and the top of the main support is provided with a handrail.