A folding ladder

Abstract

This application discloses a folding ladder, including a connecting frame detachably mounted on a target object, at least one first ladder, at least one second ladder, and at least one transmission mechanism. At least one side of the connecting frame has a fixed first toothed structure. One end of the first ladder is hinged to the connecting frame; the second ladder is hinged to the other end of the first ladder, and one end of the second ladder has a fixed second toothed structure. The first toothed structure is connected to the second toothed structure via the transmission mechanism, enabling the first and second ladders to unfold or fold synchronously during use. This folding ladder, through the cooperation of the first toothed structure, the second toothed structure, and the transmission mechanism, allows the first and second ladders to unfold or fold synchronously during use. The overall structure is simple, convenient for operation, installation, and maintenance, and does not occupy space.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of ladder technology, specifically a folding ladder. Background Technology

[0002] Ladders are primarily used to help people safely and easily board and disembark from boats, RVs, or docks, especially when the vessel is moored at a dock, on the water, or in the water. They provide a stable passage for crew, passengers, or divers, enabling them to board the vessel from the water or enter the water from the vessel for activities. Ladders play a vital role in lifesaving, boarding, maintenance, and water sports scenarios, ensuring the safety and convenience of personnel.

[0003] Existing ladders have complex structures, are difficult to store, inconvenient to operate, take up space on ships, provide a poor user experience, are difficult to replace or maintain, and are costly.

[0004] Therefore, the structure of existing marine ladders has room for further improvement. Utility Model Content

[0005] In view of this, and addressing the technical problems of existing ladders being complex in structure, cumbersome to store, inconvenient to operate, occupying space in boats or RVs, and difficult to replace or maintain, this application provides a folding ladder. By changing the ladder's structure, it makes it easier for users to unfold and fold the ladder, simplifies operation, greatly simplifies the replacement and maintenance process, saves space, and reduces costs.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this application provides the following technical solution: a folding ladder, comprising: A connecting frame that can be detachably installed on a target object, wherein at least one side of the connecting frame is provided with a fixed first tooth-like structure; At least one first escalator, one end of which is hinged to the connecting frame; At least one second escalator is hinged to the other end of the first escalator, and one end of the second escalator is provided with a fixed second tooth-like structure; At least one transmission mechanism is provided, wherein the first toothed structure is connected to the second toothed structure via the transmission mechanism, for the purpose of synchronously unfolding or retracting the first escalator and the second escalator during use.

[0007] Compared with existing technologies, the coordinated operation of the first toothed structure, the second toothed structure, and the transmission mechanism enables the first and second escalators to unfold or retract synchronously. This also ensures stability and safety during synchronous rotation. The overall structure is simple, facilitating operation, installation, and maintenance, reducing costs, saving space, and enhancing user experience and safety. During use, to unfold the ladder, simply apply an outward force to either the first or second escalator. Due to the mutual transmission between the first and second toothed structures and the transmission mechanism, this force is transmitted, causing the first and second escalators to rotate outward synchronously. To retract the ladder, apply an inward force, and the first and second escalators will rotate inward towards the connecting frame to retract synchronously.

[0008] Preferably, a transmission mechanism is provided on both sides of the first escalator.

[0009] In this embodiment, transmission mechanisms are provided on both sides of the first escalator, which makes the force on the first escalator more even during rotation, and further enhances the stability of the ladder when it is unfolded and retracted.

[0010] Preferably, the transmission mechanism includes a sprocket, a third tooth structure, and a connecting shaft, wherein the third tooth structure and the sprocket are connected by a circumferential limiting connection; Both the sprocket and the third toothed structure are rotatably connected to the first escalator via a connecting shaft.

[0011] In this embodiment, the circumferential limiting connection ensures that the third toothed structure and the sprocket will not rotate relative to each other during transmission, thus ensuring the accuracy and stability of the transmission between the first and second escalators.

[0012] Preferably, the connecting frame includes a connecting member and a locking member, and the first toothed structure is fixed to the connecting member by the locking member.

[0013] In this embodiment, the first toothed structure remains fixed regardless of whether the first and second escalators are retracting or unfolding, while the third toothed structure can rotate along the first toothed structure, thereby driving the sprocket to rotate.

[0014] Preferably, the first escalator includes two parallel support frames and a plurality of treads disposed between the two support frames, and the transmission mechanism is installed inside the support frames.

[0015] In this embodiment, by setting multiple pedals, the pedals provide a stable stepping surface, ensuring the safety of users when going up and down the ladder.

[0016] Preferably, the bottom of the first escalator is provided with a first limiting member, which at least partially cooperates with the connecting member to limit the first escalator when it is in the unfolded state.

[0017] In this embodiment, when the first escalator is unfolded to a suitable position, the first limiting member will limit the unfolded first escalator. That is, the first limiting member will abut against the bottom of the connecting member to limit its unfolding angle and prevent the first escalator from being over-unfolded. At this time, the first toothed structure, the second toothed structure and the third toothed structure all stop rotating, and the sprocket is in a taut state. The force is borne by the sprocket, ensuring that the first and second escalators can remain stable after unfolding and will not continue to rotate or shake due to external forces, thereby ensuring the safety of users when going up and down the ladder.

[0018] Preferably, the end of the first escalator facing the second escalator is also provided with a second limiting member, which is connected to the support frame and is used to limit the second escalator when it is in the unfolded state.

[0019] In this embodiment, when the second escalator is unfolded to a suitable position, the second limiting member will limit the unfolded second escalator, restrict the unfolding angle of the second escalator, prevent the second escalator from moving upward, ensure the safety of use, and ensure that the second escalator can remain stable after unfolding, and will not rotate or shake upward due to external force, thereby ensuring the safety of users when going up and down the escalator.

[0020] Preferably, one of the support frames is provided with a handrail.

[0021] In this embodiment, the handrail provides a stable support point for the user, making it easier for them to maintain balance and safety when going up and down the ladder.

[0022] Preferably, a bushing is fitted onto the connecting shaft, and the inner diameter of the bushing is adapted to the outer diameter of the connecting shaft.

[0023] In this embodiment, the bushing can reduce friction and wear between the sprocket, the third tooth structure and the connecting shaft, ensuring smooth rotation and extending service life.

[0024] Preferably, it also includes at least one gas spring, one end of which is connected to the side of the connecting frame and the other end of which is connected to the side of the second escalator.

[0025] In this embodiment, by setting a gas spring, the stability and flexibility of the folding ladder during use can be enhanced, the user's operational burden can be reduced, and the ladder can be automatically opened or closed. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a folding ladder provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 1; Figure 2 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a folding ladder provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of part A in the diagram; Figure 4 This is an exploded structural diagram of a folding ladder provided in one embodiment of this application; Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of part B in the diagram; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a folding ladder provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 2 ; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a folding ladder provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 3 ; Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the three-dimensional structure of a folding ladder provided in an embodiment of this application. Figure 4 .

[0027] In the diagram: 1. Connecting frame; 2. First escalator; 3. Second escalator; 4. Transmission mechanism; 5. Gas spring; 11. First tooth-shaped structure; 12. Connector; 13. Locking element; 14. Supporting handrail; 15. Flat plate; 22. Support frame; 23. Pedal; 24. First limiting component; 25. Second limiting component; 26. First protective shell; 27. Handrail; 28. Third limiting component; 31. Second tooth-shaped structure; 32. Support; 33. Ladder plate; 34. Second protective shell; 41. Sprocket; 42. Connecting shaft; 43. Third tooth structure; 44. Bushing. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions of this disclosure, the following detailed, clear, and complete description of this disclosure is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of this disclosure and are not intended to limit it.

[0029] In the description of this application, the use of "first" and "second" is for the purpose of distinguishing technical features only, and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly indicating the number of technical features indicated or the order of the technical features indicated.

[0030] Those skilled in the art should understand that in the disclosure of this application, the terms "longitudinal", "lateral", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the above terms should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0031] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, see below. Figures 1 to 8 illustrate.

[0032] Example 1 This embodiment provides a folding ladder, which is applied in the field of ladder technology. Specifically, as shown in... Figures 1 to 6 As shown, the system includes a connecting frame 1 that can be detachably installed on a target object (boat, RV, or dock), at least one first ladder 2, at least one second ladder 3, and at least one transmission mechanism 4. The detachable connection allows the ladders to be flexibly installed and disassembled according to actual needs, facilitating the storage and transportation of the ladders. At least one side of the connecting frame 1 is provided with a fixed first toothed structure 11. One end of the first ladder 2 is hinged to the connecting frame 1, and the second ladder 3 is hinged to the other end of the first ladder 2, allowing the first ladder 2 and the second ladder 3 to rotate around the hinge point. One end of the second ladder 3 is provided with a fixed second toothed structure 31. The first toothed structure 11 is connected to the second toothed structure 31 through the transmission mechanism 4, which is used to realize the synchronous unfolding or retraction of the first ladder 2 and the second ladder 3 during use. Through the cooperation of the first toothed structure 11, the second toothed structure 31 and the transmission mechanism 4, the first escalator 2 and the second escalator 3 can be opened or closed synchronously. This ensures the stability and safety of the first escalator 2 and the second escalator 3 when they rotate synchronously, and prevents the ladders from becoming loose or misaligned during use. The overall structure is simple, which is convenient for staff to operate, install and maintain. It reduces costs, does not take up space, and improves the user experience and safety.

[0033] During use, when the ladder needs to be unfolded, simply apply an outward force to the first ladder 2 or the second ladder 3. Due to the cooperation between the first toothed structure 11, the second toothed structure 31 and the transmission mechanism 4, this force will be transmitted through the transmission mechanism 4, causing the first ladder 2 and the second ladder 3 to rotate outward synchronously and unfold. When the ladder needs to be retracted, apply an inward force to the first ladder 2 or the second ladder 3, and the first ladder 2 and the second ladder 3 will rotate inward synchronously towards the connecting frame 1 and retract.

[0034] The first escalator 2 is equipped with transmission mechanisms 4 on both sides, which makes the force on the first escalator 2 more even during rotation, and further enhances the stability of the ladder when it is unfolded and retracted.

[0035] Furthermore, such as Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the transmission mechanism 4 includes a sprocket 41, a third toothed structure 43, and a connecting shaft 42. The third toothed structure 43 and the sprocket 41 are connected by a circumferential limiting connection. This circumferential limiting connection ensures that the third toothed structure 43 and the sprocket 41 will not rotate relative to each other during transmission, guaranteeing the accuracy and stability of the transmission between the first escalator 2 and the second escalator 3. Both the sprocket 41 and the third toothed structure 43 are rotatably connected to the first escalator 2 via the connecting shaft 42, allowing the transmission mechanism 4 to move flexibly as the first escalator 2 rotates. The sprocket 41 has a relatively simple structure, is easy to disassemble and replace, facilitates daily maintenance and repair, and extends the service life of the ladder.

[0036] In addition, the transmission mechanism 4 also includes a synchronous pulley or synchronous belt, and is not limited to the above embodiment, as long as it can achieve synchronous transmission and unfolding or retraction of the first escalator 2 and the second escalator 3. In practical applications, a suitable transmission method can be considered according to specific needs and costs.

[0037] Among them, a bushing 44 is fitted on the connecting shaft 42. The inner diameter of the bushing 44 is adapted to the outer diameter of the connecting shaft 42. The bushing 44 can reduce the friction and wear between the sprocket 41, the third tooth structure 43 and the connecting shaft 42, ensuring smooth rotation and extending service life.

[0038] The first toothed structure 11 and the second toothed structure 31 are of equal size, which ensures more precise and stable meshing between them during transmission. This avoids transmission errors, jamming, or abnormal wear caused by size differences, further guaranteeing the reliability and smoothness of the synchronous unfolding or retraction of the first escalator 2 and the second escalator 3, making the entire ladder structure more efficient and safer during operation. The first toothed structure 11, the second toothed structure 31, and the third toothed structure 43 are fan-shaped meshing teeth (sector teeth), similar to gears or racks.

[0039] Furthermore, such as Figures 2 to 5As shown, the connecting frame 1 includes a connector 12 and a locking member 13. The connector 12 is a hollow structure and is located on the outer side of the connecting frame 1 near the first escalator 2. The first toothed structure 11 is fixed to the connector 12 by the locking member 13. The first toothed structure 11 remains stationary regardless of whether the first escalator 2 or the second escalator 3 is retracted or extended. The third toothed structure 43 can rotate along the first toothed structure 11, thereby driving the sprocket 41 to rotate. The bottom of the connector 12 is flat, and the end of the connector 12 facing the first escalator 2 has an arc-shaped opening. The sprocket 41 is at least partially located at the arc-shaped opening, which not only facilitates the hinge connection between the first escalator 2 and the connecting frame 1, but also reduces space occupation when the first escalator 2 and the second escalator 3 are retracted, making the overall structure more compact.

[0040] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first ladder 2 includes two parallel support frames 22 and multiple steps 23 disposed between the two support frames 22. The transmission mechanism 4 is installed inside the support frame 22. The steps 23 provide a stable stepping surface, ensuring the safety of users when climbing up and down the ladder. The support frame 22 has a hollow structure, and both ends of the support frame 22 have arc-shaped openings. The size of the support frame 22 is larger than the size of the connector 12. One end of the arc-shaped opening of the first toothed structure 11 and the connector 12 is located inside the arc-shaped opening of the support frame 22. The locking member 13 fixes the support frame 22, the connector 12 and the first toothed structure 11, avoiding direct corrosion of the transmission mechanism 4 and the first toothed structure 11 by seawater, improving the practicality and durability of the ladder, extending the service life of the ladder, and at the same time, the hollow support frame 22 reduces the overall weight of the ladder, making it easier to transport and install.

[0041] Specifically, such as Figure 6 As shown, one of the support frames 22 is equipped with a handrail 27. The handrail 27 is fixedly installed on the top or side of the support frame 22. The handrail 27 can provide a stable support point for the user, making it easier for them to maintain balance and safety when going up and down the ladder.

[0042] Among them, such as Figure 5 As shown, the first escalator 2 also includes a first protective shell 26. The first protective shell 26 is similar to a U-shaped structure. The first protective shell 26 is disposed on the outside of the support frame 22. The first protective shell 26 is rotatably connected to the support frame 22 through the connecting shaft 42. The first protective shell 26 can partially block the arc-shaped opening of the support frame 22 to prevent impurities from entering the internal structure of the support frame 22. The first protective shell 26 can also enhance the overall structural strength of the ladder.

[0043] Among them, such as Figure 4 , Figure 6As shown, the bottom of the first escalator 2 is provided with a first limiting member 24. The first limiting member 24 is located at the bottom of the support frame 22 and is integrally formed with the support frame 22. The first limiting member 24 at least partially cooperates with the connecting member 12 to limit the first escalator 2 when it is in the unfolded state. When the first escalator 2 is unfolded to a suitable position, the first limiting member 24 will limit the unfolded first escalator 2, that is, the first limiting member 24 will abut against the bottom of the connecting member 12 to limit its unfolding angle and prevent the first escalator 2 from being over-unfolded. At this time, the first toothed structure 11, the second toothed structure 31 and the third toothed structure 43 all stop rotating. At the same time, the sprocket 41 also plays a limiting role. The sprocket 41 is in a taut state and the force is borne by the sprocket 41, ensuring that the first escalator 2 and the second escalator 3 can remain stable after unfolding and will not continue to rotate or shake due to external forces, thereby ensuring the safety of users when going up and down the ladder. The first limiting member 24 is provided with a bend, which can reduce stress concentration and improve the service life of the first limiting member 24.

[0044] Among them, such as Figure 4 As shown, the end of the first escalator 2 facing the second escalator 3 is also provided with a second limiting member 25. The second limiting member 25 is a shaft, connected to the support frame 22, and set at the top of the second escalator 3. The limiting member is used to limit the second escalator 3 in the unfolded state. When the second escalator 3 is unfolded to a suitable position, the second limiting member 25 will limit the unfolding angle of the second escalator 3, prevent the second escalator 3 from moving upward, ensure the safety of use, and ensure that the second escalator 3 can remain stable after unfolding, and will not rotate or shake upward due to external forces, thereby ensuring the safety of users when going up and down the ladder.

[0045] Furthermore, such as Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the second escalator 3 includes two parallel supports 32 and a ladder plate 33 disposed between the two supports 32. The supports 32 are hollow structures. Each of the two supports 32 has a fixed second tooth structure 31 at one end facing the first escalator 2. The end of the support 32 facing the first escalator 2 is an arc-shaped opening, and the other end of the support 32 is a plane. The size of the support 32 is smaller than the size of the support frame 22. The support 32 is at least partially located inside the support frame 22 and is close to the side wall of the support frame 22, which improves the connection stability between the support 32 and the support frame 22. The plane design can ensure that it can be stably supported on the ground in the unfolded state, ensuring the safety and reliability of users when going up and down the ladder.

[0046] Among them, such as Figures 4 to 8As shown, the second escalator 3 also includes a second protective shell 34. There are two second protective shells 34, which are similar to a U-shaped structure. The second protective shell 34 is located between the support frame 22 and the bracket 32. The second protective shell 34 is rotatably connected to the bracket 32 ​​through the second limiting member 25. The size of the second protective shell 34 is larger than the size of the bracket 32. The second protective shell 34 is used to partially block the arc-shaped openings of the bracket 32 ​​and the support frame 22 to prevent impurities from entering the internal structure of the bracket 32 ​​and the support frame 22. The second protective shell 34 can also enhance the overall structural strength of the ladder.

[0047] Furthermore, such as Figures 2 to 5 As shown, the connecting frame 1 also includes a flat plate 15 and at least two support handrails 14. The flat plate 15 is located between the two support handrails 14 and is connected to the connector 12. The support handrails 14 are convenient for users to grip. The end of the flat plate 15 facing the first ladder 2 is curved and tilted downwards, which can reduce the risk of injury caused by the sharp edge of the flat plate 15 when users go up or down the ladder. The flat plate 15 is fixed to the target object (such as a boat, RV, or dock) by a detachable connection. The detachable connection facilitates the installation, replacement of damaged parts and maintenance, and is convenient for transportation and storage, improving the flexibility of the ladder.

[0048] Example 2 The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that, Figure 7 As shown, in this embodiment, the handrail 27 is a telescopic structure. The end of the handrail 27 is hinged to the support frame 22, allowing the handrail 27 to rotate or fold. The telescopic structure allows for height adjustment according to the user's needs. A third limiting member 28 is provided at the hinged end of the handrail 27 to the support frame 22. The third limiting member 28 limits the handrail 27 in its unfolded state, restricting its unfolded angle and preventing it from moving towards the second escalator 3. The handrail 27 can be folded (folded up) towards the connecting frame 1, ensuring stability when folded without affecting other structures. This improves the flexibility and practicality of the handrail 27 and enhances the space utilization of the folding ladder. The remaining structures are the same and will not be described further in this embodiment.

[0049] Example 3 The difference between this embodiment and Embodiment 1 is that, Figure 8As shown, in this embodiment, the folding ladder also includes a gas spring 5. One end of the gas spring 5 is connected to the side of the connecting frame 1, and the other end of the gas spring 5 is connected to the side of the second ladder 3. When the ladder needs to be unfolded, the user applies an outward force to the first ladder 2 or the second ladder 3 to pull it open at a certain angle, and the gas spring 5 can assist in automatically opening (unfolding) the first ladder 2 and the second ladder 3. When the ladder needs to be folded, the user applies an inward force to the first ladder 2 or the second ladder 3, and the gas spring 5 can assist in automatically folding (folding) the first ladder 2 and the second ladder 3. This enhances the stability and flexibility of the folding ladder during use, reduces the user's operational burden, and achieves automatic opening or folding.

[0050] It should be noted that the gas spring 5 can be a regular gas spring 5, an electrically driven gas spring 5, or a spring-type gas spring 5.

[0051] The present application has been described in detail above. Specific examples have been used to illustrate the principles and implementation methods of the present application. The descriptions of the embodiments above are only for the purpose of helping to understand the present application and its core ideas. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several improvements and modifications to the present application without departing from the principles of the present application, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of the present application.

Claims

1. A folding ladder, characterized in that, include: A connecting frame (1) that can be detachably installed on a target object, wherein at least one side of the connecting frame (1) is provided with a fixed first tooth structure (11). At least one first escalator (2) is hinged at one end to the connecting frame (1); At least one second escalator (3) is hinged to the other end of the first escalator (2), and one end of the second escalator (3) is provided with a fixed second tooth structure (31). At least one transmission mechanism (4) is provided, wherein the first toothed structure (11) is connected to the second toothed structure (31) via the transmission mechanism (4) to enable the first escalator (2) and the second escalator (3) to unfold or retract synchronously when in use.

2. The folding ladder according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first escalator (2) is equipped with a transmission mechanism (4) on both sides.

3. The folding ladder according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The transmission mechanism (4) includes a sprocket (41), a third tooth structure (43), and a connecting shaft (42), wherein the third tooth structure (43) is circumferentially limited to the sprocket (41); The sprocket (41) and the third toothed structure (43) are rotatably connected to the first escalator (2) via a connecting shaft (42).

4. The folding ladder according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connecting frame (1) includes a connecting member (12) and a locking member (13), and the first toothed structure (11) is fixed to the connecting member (12) by the locking member (13).

5. The folding ladder according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first escalator (2) includes two parallel support frames (22) and a plurality of treads (23) disposed between the two support frames (22), and the transmission mechanism (4) is installed inside the support frame (22).

6. The folding ladder according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first escalator (2) is provided with a first limiting member (24) at the bottom. The first limiting member (24) cooperates with the connecting member (12) at least partially to limit the first escalator (2) when it is in the unfolded state.

7. The folding ladder according to claim 5, characterized in that, The first escalator (2) is also provided with a second limiting member (25) at one end facing the second escalator (3). The second limiting member (25) is connected to the support frame (22) and is used to limit the second escalator (3) when it is in the unfolded state.

8. The folding ladder according to claim 5, characterized in that, One of the support frames (22) is provided with a handrail (27).

9. The folding ladder according to claim 3, characterized in that, A bushing (44) is fitted on the connecting shaft (42), and the inner diameter of the bushing (44) is adapted to the outer diameter of the connecting shaft (42).

10. The folding ladder according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes at least one gas spring (5), one end of which is connected to the side of the connecting frame (1) and the other end is connected to the side of the second escalator (3).

Images