Foldable work platform ladder

Abstract

The invention relates to a ladder (1) comprising a climbing plane (2) that has a pair of rails and rungs transversely connecting the rails, the ladder comprising a foldable work platform (5) and a wall spacer, the work platform comprising a safety guard and a floor, the safety guard and the wall spacer forming an assembly that is pivotably connected to the climbing plane between a folded configuration in which the safety guard and the wall spacer are folded back toward the climbing plane and a deployed configuration when the work platform is in use, the floor being pivotably connected to the climbing plane between a folded configuration in which the floor is folded down toward the climbing plane and a deployed configuration when the work platform is in use, the means for pivotably connecting the assembly formed by the safety guard and the wall spacer to the climbing plane being separate and independent from the means for pivotably connecting the floor to the climbing plane.

Description

[0001] Folding workstation ladder

[0002] The invention relates to the field of ladders (possibly telescopic) equipped with a folding workstation.

[0003] By "ladder" we mean here a transportable device comprising a climbing plan.

[0004] The term "telescopic ladder" here refers to a ladder whose climbing plane comprises at least two elements mounted to slide relative to each other.

[0005] By "workstation" we mean here a unit comprising a guardrail and a floor.

[0006] By "foldable" is meant here that the workstation can be in a compact transport or storage position, or in a deployed position in which a user can access or dismount the workstation.

[0007] Ladders of this type are used in particular in the construction industry for formwork work, or in the civil engineering field for work on electricity poles or pylons.

[0008] Ladders with a folding workstation are most often used for short-term work and are designed to be portable.

[0009] Examples of such scales can be found in documents FR2892146 (AUDINNOV, 2007), FR2927649 (AU DINNOV, 2009), FR2926590 (DUARI B, 2009), FR2990988 (AUDINNOV, 2013).

[0010] Ladders of this type are different in structure and use from those of the rolling platforms presented in the NF EN 131 - 7 standard, of the individual rolling platform (PIR) or light individual rolling platform (PI RL) type.

[0011] Firstly, individual rolling platforms have a step-up surface and a support surface, as well as, if necessary, stabilising feet. The support surface extends towards the front of the platform. The weight of the platform rests on the ground, via the feet of the step-up surface and the feet of the support surface.

[0012] A folding workstation ladder is, in the deployed position of the workstation, supported on a structure. Such a ladder conventionally comprises a support device against this structure. Such a device is often called a support cradle. Depending on the intended uses for the ladder, the support cradle comprises wheels or rubber pads. Document FR3012510 (CDH, 201 5) presents a cradle for supporting a ladder against a pylon. Document EP3995665 (STAASAEKER, 2022) presents a spreader comprising wheels, for supporting a ladder against a facade. Reference may also be made to document EP2454440 (EASI, 2013).

[0013] Secondly, a rolling individual platform allows access to a workstation including a floor located at a maximum height of 2.5 m above the ground, according to standard NF P 93-352. A light rolling individual platform allows access to a workstation including a floor at a maximum height of 1.5 m above the ground.

[0014] In ladders equipped with a folding workstation, the workstation floor is generally located at a height of around 3 to 6 meters.

[0015] The unfolding of an individual rolling platform can be carried out easily by a single person, the feet of the climbing surface and the support surface ensuring stability to the platform during this unfolding.

[0016] The same does not apply to ladders equipped with a folding workstation, the deployment of the workstation being tiring, complicated, or even dangerous in the designs proposed in the prior art.

[0017] Document EP 1 783322 (TUBESCA, 2007) describes a ladder whose climbing surface comprises two sliding elements, the ladder being provided with a folding assembly comprising a floor and a guardrail. The floor is articulated at a rung of the climbing surface, and is articulated to the side members of the climbing surface by two connecting rods. The guardrail comprises a lower rail and an upper rail, the two rails being connected by two lateral legs and each being articulated on the side members of the climbing surface. Each of the lateral legs is slidably mounted on an upright, by a support part comprising a lock. An axis carried by the lock slides in a groove in the upright. For the deployment of the workstation, the ladder is placed inclined relative to the vertical, and the floor pivots by gravity to its horizontal position.The operator then pushes on these two side legs, causing the upper and lower rails of the guardrail to pivot. Deployment of the workstation may be hindered by deposits, for example of plaster or render, in the sliding grooves of the side legs, or on the pivot pins of the upper and lower rails. Pivoting the guardrail when manually pushing on the side legs involves eight joints and two sliding grooves, increasing the risk of blockage due to fouling. Gravity-driven pivoting of the floor may not be possible for the same reasons.

[0018] Document FR2907493 (AUDINNOV, 2008) describes a ladder whose climbing surface comprises two sliding elements, the ladder being provided with a folding workstation comprising a floor and a U-shaped frame forming a guardrail. The floor and the guardrail are each hinged on a rung of the climbing surface, and are connected by a connecting rod. To deploy the workstation, the operator must climb onto the climbing surface, operate a lock with one hand and, with the other hand, lift the guardrail upwards or push the floor downwards. Since the ladder is resting against a wall during this maneuver, the pivoting of the floor may be blocked by a relief present on this wall, for example a window sill. Furthermore, during its use, the ladder may have been splashed with paint, cement, plaster or coating.Such deposits on the pivot axes of the floor or guardrail involve greater manual effort for the deployment of the workstation, these efforts being able to affect the stability of the ladder, with the resulting risk of the operator falling.

[0019] Document FR291 8408 (AUDINNOV, 2009) describes a ladder equipped with a workstation comprising a floor and a guardrail, the floor being articulated to a rung of the climbing surface and being connected by connecting rods to the guardrail. Each connecting rod is equipped with a collar mounted to slide on the guardrail. To deploy the workstation, the operator must climb onto the climbing surface and exert a force on the floor to pivot it horizontally, this pivoting must cause the movement of the connecting rods to the guardrail. The operator must check that the connecting rods are in position, and if not, slide the collars on the guardrail. The ladder has the disadvantages of that described in document FR2907493, the deployment of the workstation being moreover longer and more complicated.An object of the invention is to remedy the drawbacks of the prior art, by proposing a ladder equipped with a folding workstation, the ladder offering better ergonomic and safety qualities, while being simple to use and offering great compactness in the folded configuration.

[0020] For these purposes, there is proposed, according to a first aspect, a ladder comprising a climbing plane having a pair of side members and rungs or bars transversely connecting the side members, the ladder comprising a foldable workstation and a wall spreader, the workstation comprising a guardrail and a floor, the guardrail and the wall spreader forming an assembly articulated to the climbing plane, between a folded configuration in which the guardrail and the wall spreader are folded towards the climbing plane and a deployed configuration for use of the workstation, the floor being articulated to the climbing plane between a folded configuration in which the floor is folded towards the climbing plane and a deployed configuration for use of the workstation, the means of articulation to the climbing plane of the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spreader being distinct and independent of the means of articulation to the climbing plane of the floor.

[0021] The deployment of the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spreader can thus be obtained before straightening the ladder, after having deployed the floor. The user can carry out the deployment of the workstation in complete safety, with both hands available for maneuvers, without the weight of the ladder constituting a hindrance. When the workstation has been put in the deployed configuration, the user can tilt the climbing plane and place the ladder in its position of use.

[0022] Advantageously, the guardrail includes a gate for access to the workstation. According to various embodiments, the gate may include one or more bars, or a panel extending across the entire width of the workstation, the gate opening upwards or towards the inside or outside of the workstation.

[0023] In certain implementations, in the deployed configuration of the workstation, the guardrail comprises two vertical uprights and two horizontal uprights, the vertical and horizontal uprights extending on either side of the climbing plane, each vertical upright being slidably mounted on a guide fixed to a longitudinal member of the climbing plane, the guide pivoting transversely relative to the longitudinal member of the climbing plane, each horizontal upright being pivotally mounted to a vertical upright, each horizontal upright being pivotally mounted to a longitudinal member of the climbing plane.

[0024] In the folded configuration of the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spacer, the vertical and horizontal uprights of the guardrail are advantageously arranged parallel and at a short distance from the side members of the climbing plane. The ladder can thus be transported or stored in a very compact configuration.

[0025] According to certain implementations, a guide piece is slidably mounted on each of the side members of the climbing plane, each guide piece being connected to the wall spacer by a connecting bar, each guide piece being connected to a vertical upright of the guardrail by a connecting tube, the sliding of each guide piece on its support side member, between a first extreme position and a second extreme position causing the movement of the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spacer between its deployed configuration for use in the workstation and its folded configuration.

[0026] The manual operation of the two guide parts is advantageously carried out before straightening the climbing surface, the ladder being extended on the ground. The user can thus ensure the perfect deployment of the floor and the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spreader, before straightening the climbing surface. The user can then climb onto the climbing surface and begin work, without having to carry out any other intervention for the deployment of the workstation.

[0027] Advantageously, locking means are capable of maintaining at least one guide part in its first extreme position, in which the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spacer is in its deployed configuration.

[0028] Advantageously, locking means are capable of holding at least one guide piece in its second extreme position, in which the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spacer is in its folded configuration. The locking means are advantageously locking hands, the actuation of which is carried out manually against a return means, such as for example a traction or torsion spring.

[0029] Advantageously, the floor is articulated, by a front edge, to the lifting plane, in transverse rotation, the floor being in its deployed configuration supported by a rear edge on a support tube, the support tube being articulated in transverse rotation to the lifting plane, a guide being slidably mounted on the support tube, the guide being mounted in transverse rotation to the rear edge of the floor. Advantageously, a shock absorber is placed between the support tube and the floor.

[0030] In certain implementations, the lifting plane comprises at least two parts mounted to slide relative to each other. Advantageously, two stabilizers are articulated to the lifting plane. These stabilizers form support legs or struts. The stabilizers are advantageously telescopic, and comprise, for example, a tube sliding in a sleeve, means allowing the length of the stabilizers to be adjusted, for example holes in the tube facing an orifice in the sleeve for the passage of a pin, or a locking of the sliding tube by friction using a part connected to the sleeve.

[0031] Other objects and advantages of the invention will appear in the light of the description of an embodiment, given below with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0032] - Figure 1 is a perspective view of a ladder equipped with a folding workstation, the ladder being shown in the deployed configuration;

[0033] - Figure 2 is a perspective view of the workstation of the ladder shown in Figure 1;

[0034] - figure 3 is a perspective view of the workstation shown in figure 1, illustrating more particularly the guardrail;

[0035] - Figure 4 is a side view of the ladder of Figure 1, shown in the compact folded, storage or transport configuration; - Figure 5 is a side view of the upper part of the ladder shown in Figure 1, the workstation being in the deployed configuration;

[0036] - figure 6 is a side view of the upper part of the ladder shown in figure 1, the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spreader being in an intermediate folded position, the floor being in its deployed configuration;

[0037] - figure 7 is a side view of the upper part of the ladder shown in figure 1, the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spreader being in its folded configuration, the floor being in its deployed configuration;

[0038] - figure 8 is a side view of the upper part of the ladder shown in figure 1, the floor being in an intermediate folded position, the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spreader being in its deployed configuration;

[0039] - figure 9 is a side view of the upper part of the ladder shown in figure 1, the floor being in its folded configuration, the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spreader being in its deployed configuration;

[0040] - figure 10 is a detailed view of the support of the floor on its support, in the deployed configuration of the floor;

[0041] - figure 11 is a detailed view of the locking means of the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spacer.

[0042] In the remainder of this description, the terms "horizontal" and "vertical" are used in reference to the ladder in the deployed position, resting on the ground.

[0043] Figure 1 shows a telescopic ladder equipped with a folding workstation.

[0044] Ladder 1 comprises a climbing plane 2, two stabilizers 3, 4, and a folding workstation 5. Each of the two stabilizers 3, 4 is articulated to the climbing plane 2 by a brace 6, 7.

[0045] In the embodiment shown, the ascent plane 2 comprises an upper part 8 slidably mounted on a lower part 9. The ascent plane 2 thus comprises two planes.

[0046] In other embodiments, not shown, the climbing plane comprises more than two planes, for example three to five planes, making it possible to reach high working heights, for example more than ten meters.

[0047] The ladder advantageously includes a parachute allowing the elements of the ascent plan to be locked and unlocked.

[0048] In the embodiment shown, the upper part 8 comprises two substantially parallel side members 10 and ten cross members 11 fixed to the side members 10 (nine cross members 11 for access to the workstation 5 and a last cross member 11 at the upper end of the ascent plane 2, reinforcing the rigidity), the lower part 9 comprising two substantially parallel side members 12 and ten cross members 13 fixed to the side members 12.

[0049] In other embodiments, not shown, the upper part and / or the lower part of the climbing plane comprises less than ten sleepers, for example between four and seven sleepers.

[0050] The ladder 1 is provided with means reducing the risk of slipping. In the embodiment shown, each stabilizer 3, 4 is provided with a non-slip pad 14, and each of the two side members 12 of the lower part 9 of the climbing plane 2 is provided with a non-slip pad 15

[0051] The pads 14, 15 are for example made of elastomer material.

[0052] In one implementation, the pads 15 of the ascent plane 2 comprise a lower part for contact with the ground, and an upper part for attachment to the side members 12. In a particular implementation, the lower part of the pads 15 is made of a flexible material, and the upper part of the pads is made of a rigid material, the pads 15 being manufactured using a two-material process.

[0053] In certain implementations, the side members 12 are formed from hollow profiles, and the pads 15 fit the base of the side members or are force-fitted into the side members 12.

[0054] In one implementation, the pads 14 of the stabilizers 3, 4 comprise a lower part for contact with the ground, and an upper part for attachment to the stabilizers 3, 4. In a particular implementation, the lower part of the pads 14 is made of a flexible material, and the upper part for attachment of the pads is made of a rigid material, the pads 14 being manufactured using a two-material process.

[0055] In the embodiment shown, each stabilizer 3, 4 comprises a tubular body and a lower profile mounted to slide relative to the body, the lower profile carrying a pad 14. In certain embodiments, the lower profile is hollow and the pad 14 is mounted as an insert in the lower profile. In other embodiments, the pad 14 fits over the base of the lower profile.

[0056] In other embodiments, each stabilizer 3, 4 comprises a lower tubular body and an upper profile mounted to slide relative to the body, the pad 14 being mounted for insertion in the lower tubular body or fitting the base of the lower tubular body.

[0057] In certain implementations, the pads 1 5 are mounted articulated to the side members 1 2.

[0058] Ladder 1 is advantageously provided with means reinforcing its stability in the deployed position.

[0059] In some implementations, the lifting platform is provided at its base with a stabilizer bar, in particular telescopic, or crutches.

[0060] In some implementations, the riser stringers are spaced further apart at the base of the riser.

[0061] In the embodiment shown, the body of each stabilizer 3, 4 is articulated by a brace 6, 7 to a spar 10 of the upper part 8 of the climbing plane 2.

[0062] In other embodiments, each stabilizer is articulated by a brace to a spar of the lower part of the climbing plane. In the compact storage, storage or transport position of the ladder 1, the lower profile is retracted into the body and the brace 6 is substantially parallel to the spar 10 of the climbing plane.

[0063] The crosspieces 11, 13 form bars or rungs serving as steps for going up or down.

[0064] In the embodiment shown, the crosspieces 11, 13 are substantially equidistant.

[0065] In some implementations, the climbing plane 2 is formed by the assembly of metal side members and cross members, made of steel or aluminum alloy.

[0066] The crosspieces can be joined to the side members by welding, screwing, stapling, or by interlocking with the use of force-locking pieces to lock the crosspieces in their interlocking position. The crosspieces can be joined to the side members by swaging or crimping.

[0067] For crimping assembly, the rungs are provided, on their two lateral ends, with at least one constriction which engages in holes in the side members. The end of these constrictions projects from the external face of the side members and is deformed by crimping, or by rolling, tuliping, or stamping. Single crimping leads to the deformation of the constriction on the external face of the side member. Double crimping, carried out on both the external face and the internal face of the side member, provides greater mechanical resistance than single crimping, since it allows tightening on either side of the side member wall.

[0068] For the expansion joint, the expansion tool is, for example, mechanical and consists of a barrel, rollers or needles and a conical pin. The conical pin (or expansion tail) moves inside the profile forming the cross member. This pin is rotated by an electric or pneumatic expanding machine. The pin increases the circumference of the rollers while rotating them. The rollers thus cause the profile forming the cross member to expand. This expansion is carried out while the profile forming the cross member has been inserted into an opening made in the side member. It is thus possible to form beads on the cross member, these beads being placed on either side of at least one of the walls of the side member.

[0069] The assembly of the sleepers to the side members is advantageously carried out by rolling, riveting, tuliping, crimping, leading to a plastic deformation of the two ends of the sleepers, this plastic deformation being advantageously ensured simultaneously on the two end parts of the sleepers.

[0070] In the embodiment shown, the side members 10, 12 forming uprights of the rising plane 2 are of rectangular cross-section and the cross members 11, 13 are of square cross-section. By cross-section is meant here a section along a plane perpendicular to the direction of slenderness of an element.

[0071] In other embodiments, not shown, the crosspieces are of circular, oval, rectangular or polygonal cross section, the side members being of circular, oval or polygonal section. The crosspieces advantageously comprise, in their part located between the side members, reliefs such as grooves or folds. These reliefs make it possible in particular to prevent the user's foot or hand from slipping when climbing or descending the ladder 1.

[0072] In one implementation, these reliefs are undulations in the thickness of the profile forming the crosspiece, the thickness of this profile, measured in cross section of the crosspiece, being substantially constant.

[0073] In other implementations, at least part of the crosspieces of the climbing plane is provided with an added non-slip material, such as an elastomer strip, or even a plate made of embossed, ribbed, perforated, expanded metal or even grating.

[0074] In some implementations, the ladder is formed by assembling non-conductive material, for example a composite material with mineral fiber such as fiberglass, or plant fiber such as flax fiber. The profiles forming the side members and crosspieces of the climbing plane are, for example, pultruded.

[0075] These provisions are advantageous when the ladder is intended for electrical work or outdoor work near power lines.

[0076] In the embodiment shown, the foldable workstation 5 is permanently fixed to the ladder 1, in the upper part.

[0077] In other embodiments, not shown, the folding workstation is attached to the ladder in a removable manner.

[0078] Workstation 5 includes a guardrail 18, a floor 19 and a wall spacer 20.

[0079] In the embodiment shown, the workstation 5 comprises bent or curved tubular elements, for example made of steel or aluminum alloy.

[0080] When the ladder is intended for electrical work or outdoor work near electrical cables, the tubes forming the workstation are advantageously made of insulating material, such as a composite material, for example with a polymer matrix and fiberglass reinforcement.

[0081] The guardrail 18 and the wall spacer 20 form an assembly which can be folded and unfolded in one movement, independent of the folding and unfolding movement of the floor 19. The floor 19 will now be described more particularly.

[0082] The floor 19 is advantageously non-slip and is, for example, with an embossed, ribbed or perforated surface. The floor 19 may be made of metal, in particular aluminum alloy or steel, or even of composite, for example with a polymer matrix and fiberglass reinforcement, or even of wood.

[0083] The floor 19 advantageously comprises a plinth 21. In the embodiment shown, the plinth 21 comprises three sections 22, 23, 24 substantially perpendicular to the floor 19, namely two lateral sections 22, 23 and a junction section 24. When the ladder 1 is in the deployed position of use, the floor 19 is substantially horizontal and the junction section 24 is substantially vertical and arranged opposite the climbing plane 2.

[0084] The plinth 21 limits the risk of objects falling, such as tools that may be on the floor 19. The plinth 21 forms a stop for the user's feet, limiting the risk of falling.

[0085] The height of the plinth 21 is advantageously of the order of ten centimeters or more than ten centimeters.

[0086] In one implementation, the floor 19 and the plinth 21 are made from one material, for example from injection molding.

[0087] In other implementations, the plinth is fixed to the floor. In some implementations, the plinth is hinged to the floor between a compact position, in which the plinth is substantially parallel to the floor, and a deployed position of use.

[0088] The width of the floor 19 is for example forty centimeters. In the embodiment shown, the floor 19 is substantially square.

[0089] In other embodiments, not shown, the floor is rectangular.

[0090] In the deployed position, the floor 19 rests on a support 25. In the embodiment shown, the support 25 comprises a curved tube, pivotally articulated to the side members 10 of the upper part 8 of the ascent plane. A stopper 26 is placed between the curved tube of the support 25 and the floor 19. This stopper 26 can be carried by the curved tube of the support 25 or be carried by the floor 19.

[0091] In the embodiment shown, the stopper 26 is formed of two dampers 27, 28, advantageously made of elastomer material, arranged between the floor 19 and the curved tube of the support 25. These dampers 27, 28 are for example fixed by screwing to the curved tube of the support 25.

[0092] The presence of these shock absorbers 27, 28 ensures a soft and noiseless contact of the floor 19 on the support 25, when the workstation is unfolded.

[0093] The presence of these shock absorbers 27, 28 ensures comfort for the user of the ladder 1, during his movements in the workstation 5, the shock absorbers 27, 28 absorbing the vibrations and pressures exerted on the floor 19.

[0094] The floor 19 is pivotally hinged to the support 25.

[0095] In the embodiment shown, the curved tube of the support 25 comprises two guides 29, 30 slidably mounted on the curved tube of the support 25, each of the two guides 29, 30 being pivotally mounted on a lateral section 22, 23 of the plinth 21.

[0096] Floor 19 is pivotally hinged to the ascent plane 2.

[0097] In the embodiment shown, the floor 19 carries two hinges 31, 32 receiving a crosspiece 33 of the lifting plane 2. By hinge is meant here a part comprising a reservation in which the crosspiece 33 forming the articulation axis passes.

[0098] The knuckles 31, 32 are for example fixed to the floor 19 by screwing, welding, or riveting.

[0099] In the deployed position, the floor 19 rests on the support 25. In the embodiment shown, no mechanical locking is used in this deployed position.

[0100] In other implementations, not shown, a mechanical lock, for example a pin, ensures that the floor is held in the deployed position.

[0101] The folding of the floor 19 is obtained by the sliding of the guides 29, 30 on the support 25, the rotation of the floor 19 relative to the guides 29, 30, the rotation of the floor 19 relative to the cross member 33, and the rotation of the support 25 relative to the side members 10 of the ascent plane 2.

[0102] During this pivoting, the floor 19 gradually passes from a substantially horizontal position to a storage position, in which the floor 19 is positioned between the side members 10 of the ascent plane 2. In this storage position, the curved tube of the support 25 is substantially parallel to the side members 10 of the ascent plane.

[0103] The wall spacer 20 is now described.

[0104] In the embodiment shown, the wall spacer 20 comprises a plate 34 arranged between two curved tubes 35, 36. When the wall spacer 20 is in the deployed position, the plate 34 is substantially horizontal, and arranged substantially at the height of the pelvis of a person located at the workstation 5.

[0105] The plate 34 allows the user to place tools, pots or buckets. In certain implementations, not shown, the plate has housings whose shapes are adapted to specific tools.

[0106] Each of the curved tubes 35, 36 carries a support member 37, 38 such as a wheel or a skate, allowing the ladder 1 to rest against a facade or a wall.

[0107] In certain implementations, not shown, the wall spreader is of the telescopic type, allowing adjustment of the distance between the workstation and the facade or wall against which the ladder is resting.

[0108] In certain implementations, not shown, the wall spacer includes an accessory allowing support against a post.

[0109] The curved tubes 35, 36 are pivotally articulated to the side members 10 of the ascent plane 2.

[0110] We now describe the guardrail 18.

[0111] In the embodiment shown, the guardrail 18 comprises a gate 40 articulated on two vertical uprights 41, 42. The gate 40 comprises a lower bar 43, an upper bar 44 and a connecting plate 45 articulated to the upper bar 44 and to the lower bar 43.

[0112] A connecting yoke 46 connects the lower bar 43 and the plate 45. A connecting yoke 47 connects the upper bar 44 and the plate 45.

[0113] The lower bar 43 is pivotally mounted on a hinge yoke 48 fixed to a vertical upright 41. Similarly, the upper bar 44 is pivotally mounted on a hinge yoke 49 fixed to the vertical upright 41.

[0114] When the gate 40 is in the closed position of the workstation 5, the upper and lower bars 43, 44 are substantially horizontal and parallel. The free end of the lower bar 43 then rests on a support yoke 48a mounted on the second vertical upright 42. Similarly, the free end of the upper bar 44 then rests on a support yoke 49a mounted on the second vertical upright 42.

[0115] The articulation yokes 48, 49, and the support yokes 48a, 49a are for example formed by assembling parts made of polymer material, the assembly of the parts and the mounting of the yokes on the uprights 41, 42 being for example carried out by screwing.

[0116] The assembly formed by the lower bar 43, the upper bar 44, and the connecting plate 45 can be moved manually by pivoting. In the open position of the gate 40, the two bars 43, 44 are brought into a substantially vertical position. The return to the closed position of the gate 40 is ensured by the own weight of the assembly formed by the bars 43, 44 and the connecting plate 45.

[0117] The opening of the gate 40 thus takes place substantially in a vertical plane, without the gate 40 being driven towards the inside of the workstation 5, or towards the front of the ascent plane 2.

[0118] In certain implementations, a return means such as a torsion spring ensures automatic closing of the gate.

[0119] In certain implementations, a locking device ensures that the lower bar 43 and / or the upper bar 44 are held in the horizontal position for closing the workstation 5.

[0120] In the embodiment shown, the bars 43, 44 of the gate 40 are hinged to the vertical upright located to the left of the ascent plane 2.

[0121] In other embodiments, not shown, the bars 43, 44 of the gate 40 are articulated to the upright located to the right of the ascent plane 2.

[0122] In the embodiment shown, the gate 40 is formed of an assembly forming a single leaf, extending over the entire width of the workstation 5.

[0123] In other embodiments, the gate comprises two assemblies each extending across a portion of the width of the workstation. For example, the gate comprises bars hinged to the vertical post located to the right of the climbing plane, and further comprises bars hinged to the vertical post located to the left of the climbing plane.

[0124] In other implementations, not shown, the gate is hinged to one of the vertical uprights 41, 42 and opens towards the inside of the workstation. When entering the workstation, the gate opens as the user passes, to close behind him, advantageously automatically, by the weight of the gate and, if necessary, by a return means.

[0125] In other implementations, the gate is hinged to one of the vertical uprights 41, 42 and opens towards the outside of the workstation.

[0126] Each vertical upright 41, 42 is slidably mounted on a guide 50, each guide 50 being pivotally mounted on a side member of the riser plane 2.

[0127] Each vertical upright 41, 42 is furthermore articulated to a horizontal upright 51, 52, each horizontal upright 51, 52 being articulated to a side member 10 of the ascent plane 2.

[0128] The workstation 5 is provided with two guide pieces 60, each of these two guide pieces 60 being slidably mounted on a beam 10 of the ascent plane 2.

[0129] Each guide piece 60 is connected to the wall spacer 20 by a connecting bar 61.

[0130] Each guide piece 60 is connected to a vertical upright 41, 42 by a connecting tube 62.

[0131] We now describe the pivoting of the assembly formed by the guardrail 18 and the wall spreader 20, from a deployed position for use of the workstation 5 to a compact position for transporting or storing the ladder 1.

[0132] In the first step, a locking device is manually operated.

[0133] In the embodiment shown, a locking hand 63 is unlocked, on each side of the climbing plane 2, the locking hand 63 being held in the locked position by a return means such as a spring. Locking is for example obtained by the passage of one end of the locking hand 63 in a bore of the spar. Alternatively, locking is obtained by friction. The locking hand 63 is pivoted about its main axis and is then inserted into a housing 64, making it possible to hold the locking hand 63 in the open position, during the sliding of the guide part 60.

[0134] In a second step, the guide pieces 60 are slid along the side members 10 of the ascent plane 2.

[0135] During this sliding, the wall spreader 20 pivots to come into position in a plane substantially parallel to the rising plane 2.

[0136] When the guide pieces 60 slide, the horizontal uprights 51, 52 pivot to come into position in a plane slightly inclined relative to the rising plane 2.

[0137] When the guide pieces 60 slide, the vertical uprights 41, 42 pivot relative to the side members 10 by sliding in the guides 50. At the end of pivoting, the vertical uprights 41, 42 are arranged in a plane substantially parallel to the ascent plane 2.

[0138] In a third step, locking of the ladder 1 in the folded position is ensured, by actuation of the locking hands 63.

[0139] When the sliding of the guide part 60 is completed, the locking hand 63 is pivoted around its main axis, and the main axis of the locking hand 63 is housed in a hole in the spar 10 of the climbing plane, ensuring locking.

[0140] In one variant, the pivoting of the locking hand is done automatically to one or the other or both extreme positions.

[0141] Workstation 5 has high security.

[0142] A work space is delimited laterally by the upper end parts of the two side members 10. This work space is secured, in particular with regard to the risk of falling, at different heights of the user's body.

[0143] A first safety feature, at the height of the user's feet, is provided by the plinth 21.

[0144] A second safety feature, at the height of the user's legs, is provided by the lower bar 43 of the gate 40 and by the end parts of the two side members 10.

[0145] A third safety feature, at the height of the user's pelvis, is provided by the upper bar 44 of the gate 40, by the two horizontal uprights 51, 52 of the guardrail 18, and by an upper crosspiece 53.

[0146] The workspace is thus completely secured, over 360°, and therefore against the risks of falling forward, falling sideways or falling backwards.

[0147] Advantageously, the workstation is provided with means preventing the gate from accidentally opening outwards when the user present in the workspace leans on the gate.

[0148] Scale 1 is easy to use.

[0149] Starting from a compact storage position of the ladder 1, placed on the ground, the floor 19 can be manually placed in the deployed position. The ladder 1 is then supported on the ground, at the base of the side members of the ascent plane 2 (where the pads 1 5 are located), and by the support 25 of the floor 1 9.

[0150] The user can then manually deploy the assembly formed by the guardrail 18 and the wall spreader 20. During this manual deployment, the support members 37, 38 such as wheels can come to rest on the ground. The deployment of the assembly formed by the guardrail and the wall spreader is thus obtained while the ladder 1 is on the ground. The user can carry out the deployment of the workstation in complete safety, with both hands available for maneuvers, without the weight of the ladder 1 constituting a hindrance.

[0151] When the workstation is deployed, the user can tilt the lifting plane and place the stabilizers 3, 4 resting on the ground.

Claims

CLAIMS 1 . Ladder (1) comprising a climbing plane (2) having a pair of side members (10, 12) and rungs (11, 13) transversely connecting the side members (10, 12), the ladder (1) comprising a foldable workstation (5) and a wall spreader (20), the workstation (5) comprising a guardrail (18) and a floor (19), characterized in that the guardrail (18) and the wall spreader (20) form an assembly hinged to the climbing plane (2), between a folded configuration in which the guardrail (18) and the wall spreader (20) are folded towards the climbing plane (2) and a deployed configuration for use of the workstation (5), the floor (19) being hinged to the climbing plane (2) between a folded configuration in which the floor (19) is folded towards the ascent plan (2) and a deployed configuration of workstation use (5),the means of articulation to the rising plane (2) of the assembly formed by the guardrail (18) and the wall spacer (20) being distinct and independent of the means of articulation to the rising plane (2) of the floor (19)., 2. Ladder (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the guardrail (18) comprises a gate (40) for access to the workstation (5).

3. Ladder (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that in the deployed configuration of the workstation (5), the guardrail (18) comprises two vertical uprights (41, 42) and two horizontal uprights (51, 52), the vertical and horizontal uprights extending on either side of the climbing plane (2), each vertical upright (41, 42) being slidably mounted on a guide (50) fixed to a side member (10) of the climbing plane (2), the guide (50) pivoting transversely relative to the side member (10) of the climbing plane (2), each horizontal upright (51, 52) being pivotally mounted to a vertical upright (41, 42), each horizontal upright (51, 52) being pivotally mounted to a side member (10) of the climbing plane (2).

4. Ladder (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that a guide piece (60) is slidably mounted on each of the side members (10) of the climbing plane (2), each guide piece (60) being connected to the wall spreader (20) by a connecting bar (61), each guide piece (60) being connected to a vertical upright (41, 42) of the guardrail (18) by a connecting tube (62), the sliding of each guide piece (60) on its support beam (10), between a first extreme position and a second extreme position causing the movement of the assembly formed by the guardrail (18) and the wall spreader (20) between its deployed configuration for use of the workstation (5) and its folded configuration.

5. Ladder (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that locking means are capable of holding at least one guide piece (60) in its first extreme position, in which the assembly formed by the guardrail (18) and the wall spacer (20) is in its deployed configuration.

6. Ladder (1) according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that locking means are capable of holding at least one guide piece (60) in its second extreme position, in which the assembly formed by the guardrail (18) and the wall spacer (20) is in its folded configuration.

7. Ladder (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the floor (19) is articulated, by a front edge, to the climbing plane (2), in transverse rotation, the floor (19) being in its deployed configuration supported by a rear edge on a support tube (25), the support tube (25) being articulated in transverse rotation to the climbing plane (2), a guide (29, 30) being slidably mounted on the support tube (25), the guide (29, 30) being mounted in transverse rotation to the rear edge of the floor (19).

8. Ladder (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that, in the deployed configuration of the floor (19), a shock absorber (27, 28) is placed between the support tube (25) and the floor (19).

9. Ladder (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the climbing plane (2) comprises at least two parts (8, 9) mounted to slide relative to each other.

10. Ladder (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that two stabilizers (3, 4) are articulated to the climbing plane (2).

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