Damping device and asymmetric damping block adapted to be placed in a damping device for a folding ladder, a folding ladder and a method for placing a damping device on a folding ladder

Abstract

There is provided a damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) for a folding ladder (1). The folding ladder comprises an inner ladder tube section (40a) and an outer ladder tube section (40b) having an inner sidewall (44b), the inner ladder tube section (40a) being slidably disposed with the outer ladder tube section (40b). The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) comprises a main body (121) having a top portion adapted to be at least partially disposed within the inner ladder tube section (40a), at least one attachment means (122; 422), and an asymmetric damping block (140; 550; 550'; 550") adapted to be disposed within the attachment means (122; 422), the asymmetric damping block having at least one surface (142) which slidably abuts the inner sidewall (44b) of the outer ladder tube section (40b) when disposed within the folding ladder.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to folding ladders, and more particularly to a damping device for use with a folding ladder. [Background technology]

[0002] As is well known to those skilled in the art of folding ladders, such ladders typically include several tube sections of various diameters that are telescopically insertable into one another. The upper end of any tube section is secured to one end of a ladder rung or rung, and the other end of the ladder rung is secured to the upper end of a tube section having the same diameter. The two tube sections and ladder rungs form a ladder section that is insertable into an adjacent ladder section that includes a tube section having a larger diameter.

[0003] The resulting ladder may be folded accordingly by inserting a higher ladder section into a lower ladder section. The ladder may be correspondingly extended by extending an upper ladder section from a lower ladder section. Pins extending through holes in the outer walls of two adjacent tube sections may lock the tube sections to prevent the extending ladder from collapsing. Ladders with foldable and extendable ladder sections may be used, for example, to make ladders smaller so that they can be more easily stored and / or transported.

[0004] Generally, it is beneficial if the ladder tube is quickly lowered and folded to achieve easier management of the ladder. However, if the descent is too fast, there is a risk that the user's fingers or other body parts may be pinched or crushed if the user is positioned improperly with respect to the ladder. For example, in other ladders used to reach the attic of a house, the gravity and weight of the ladder cause the ladder to extend quickly, and thus the extension may damage the floor or injure the user. Prior art solutions have consequently applied damping solutions to provide safety for the user and the surroundings when managing a folding ladder.

[0005] However, prior art damping solutions are limited in several respects. Disadvantages of current solutions include, for example, poor compatibility with different types of folding ladders, difficulty in adjusting the damping effect of the folding ladder, complex and / or expensive construction, disadvantageous solutions, to name a few.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT EMBODIMENT It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an improved damping arrangement for a folding ladder. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a damping device, an asymmetric damping block, a folding ladder, and a method for deploying a folding ladder, which overcomes or at least mitigates one or more of the problems or disadvantages identified in the Background section above. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In a first aspect, there is provided a damping device for a folding ladder comprising an inner ladder tube section and an outer ladder tube section having an inner sidewall, the inner ladder tube section being slidably disposed with the outer ladder tube section, the damping device comprising a main body having a top portion adapted to be disposed at least partially within the inner ladder tube section, at least one attachment means and an asymmetric damping block adapted to be disposed on the at least one attachment means, the asymmetric damping block comprising at least one surface that slidably abuts the inner sidewall of the outer ladder tube section when disposed within the folding ladder.

[0009] The damping device offers several advantages: the attachment means allows the damping block to be placed therein without the need for further components such as different types of fastening means, which is time-efficient, saves materials and reduces costs and environmental impact.

[0010] Furthermore, the damping block is independent of the shape and / or size of the ladder tube and can therefore be used for different types of ladder tubes. This provides a robust solution that is less sensitive to different tolerances.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the asymmetric damping block disposed in the receiving portion is asymmetric about a central axis extending horizontally from a central point from the inside of the ladder tube section to the outside of the ladder tube section.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the asymmetric damping blocks are arranged to induce one of at least two different damping behaviors for the ladder tube sections.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, the asymmetric damping blocks are arranged to induce one of at least two different damping behaviors for the ladder tube sections.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the orientation, location and / or size of the asymmetric damping block disposed in the attachment means relative to the inner sidewall creates said one of at least two different damping behaviors.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, each damping behavior includes a first effect and a second effect, the first effect and the second effect being different from one another.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, a first orientation, position, and / or size of the asymmetric damping block causes a first damping behavior of the ladder tube section, and a second orientation, position, and / or size of the asymmetric damping block causes a second damping behavior of the ladder tube section.

[0017] In one or more embodiments, in a first damping behavior, inwards retraction of the inner ladder tube section relative to the outer ladder tube section causes a second effect that forces the asymmetric damping block to move and causes a damping effect on the ladder tube sections, and outwards extension of the inner ladder tube section relative to the outer ladder tube section causes a first effect that releases the damping effect caused by the asymmetric damping block.

[0018] In one or more embodiments, in the second damping behavior, the inward retraction of the inner ladder tube section relative to the outer ladder tube section causes a first effect, which releases the damping effect caused by the asymmetric damping block, and the outward expansion of the inner ladder tube section relative to the outer ladder tube section causes a second effect, which forces the asymmetric damping block to move and causes a damping effect in the ladder tube sections.

[0019] In one embodiment, the first damping behavior comprises a damping effect induced in a downward direction and the second damping behavior comprises a damping effect induced in an upward direction.

[0020] In one or more embodiments, the at least one attachment means comprises a cavity or slot facing the inner sidewall, and the asymmetric damping block is adapted to fit at least partially within the cavity.

[0021] In one or more embodiments, the damping device comprises two mounting means, each having a cavity, and two damping blocks, each cavity facing a different circumferential position around the inner sidewall, and the asymmetric damping blocks each adapted to fit at least partially within each respective cavity.

[0022] In one or more embodiments, the asymmetric damping block is adapted to fit within the cavity by clamping.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the asymmetric damping block is a single, integral, pre-formed block.

[0024] In one or more embodiments, the asymmetric damping block is made of a flexible homogenous material.

[0025] In one or more embodiments, the damping device is disposed at least partially inside the inner ladder tube section.

[0026] In a second aspect, there is provided a collapsible ladder comprising a plurality of ladder sections, each ladder section comprising two ladder tubes arranged parallel to each other and interconnected by rungs to form a respective ladder section, each ladder tube being telescopically inserted within a ladder tube of a lower section to form the collapsible ladder, each ladder section comprising a damping device according to the first aspect or any of the embodiments dependent thereon.

[0027] In a third aspect, there is provided an asymmetric damping block adapted to be disposed in a damping arrangement for a folding ladder, the folding ladder comprising an inner ladder tube section and an outer ladder tube section having an inner sidewall, the inner ladder tube section being slidably disposed with the outer ladder tube section, the damping arrangement comprising at least one attachment means, the asymmetric damping block adapted to be disposed within the at least one attachment means, the asymmetric damping block comprising at least one surface that slidably abuts the inner sidewall, causing one of at least two different damping behaviors for the ladder tube sections.

[0028] In a fourth aspect, there is provided a method for disposing a damping device on a collapsible ladder, the method comprising disposing (1510) a damping device on a first ladder tube section, the damping device comprising at least one attachment means, disposing at least one asymmetric damping block on the at least one attachment means, and slidably inserting the first ladder tube section into a second ladder tube section, such that at least one surface of the asymmetric damping block slidably abuts an inner sidewall of the second ladder tube section to form a first part of the ladder section.

[0029] It should be emphasized that, as used herein, the term "comprises / comprising" is to be interpreted to specify the presence of a stated feature, integer, step, or component, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, components, or groups thereof. All terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the art, unless expressly defined otherwise herein. All references to "an / that [element, device, component, means, step, etc.]" are to be openly interpreted as referring to at least one instance of an element, device, component, means, step, etc., unless otherwise stated. The steps of any method disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless explicitly stated. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0030] The foregoing will become apparent from the following more particular description of the exemplary embodiments, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters indicate like parts throughout the various views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the exemplary embodiments.

[0031] [Figure 1a] 1 illustrates a front view of an extended ladder according to one embodiment. [Figure 1b] 1 illustrates a front view of a maximally folded ladder according to one embodiment. [Diagram 2] 1 illustrates an isometric view of a rung according to one embodiment. [Figure 3a] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a damping device for a folding ladder according to one embodiment. [Figure 3b] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a damping device for a folding ladder according to one embodiment. [Figure 3c] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a damping device for a folding ladder according to one embodiment. [Figure 3d] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a damping device for a folding ladder according to one embodiment. [Figure 3e] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a damping device for a folding ladder according to one embodiment. [Figure 3f] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a damping device for a folding ladder according to one embodiment. [Figure 3g] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a damping device for a folding ladder according to one embodiment. [Figure 3h] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a damping device for a folding ladder according to one embodiment. [Figure 4a] 1A-1D are schematic diagrams of a damping device disposed in different orientations according to one embodiment. [Figure 4b] 1A-1D are schematic diagrams of a damping device disposed in different orientations according to one embodiment. [Figure 5a] 2 is a schematic diagram of a damping device producing a first damping behavior according to one embodiment; FIG. [Figure 5b] 2 is a schematic diagram of a damping device producing a first damping behavior according to one embodiment; FIG. [Figure 6a] 2 is a schematic diagram of a damping device producing a second damping behavior according to one embodiment; [Figure 6b] 2 is a schematic diagram of a damping device producing a second damping behavior according to one embodiment; FIG. [Figure 7a] 1A-1D are isometric views of asymmetric damping blocks according to different embodiments; [Figure 7b] 1A-1D are isometric views of asymmetric damping blocks according to different embodiments; [Figure 7c] 1A-1D are isometric views of asymmetric damping blocks according to different embodiments; [Figure 8a] 1A-1D are isometric views of ladder tubes according to different embodiments; [Figure 8b] 1A-1D are isometric views of ladder tubes according to different embodiments; [Figure 8c] 1A-1D are isometric views of ladder tubes according to different embodiments; [Figure 9a] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a damping device; [Figure 9b] FIG. 1 is a top view of an embodiment of a damping device; [Figure 9c] FIG. 1 is a top view of an embodiment of a damping device; [Figure 9d] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a damping device; [Figure 9e] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a damping device; [Figure 10a] FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric view of a damping device according to one embodiment. [Figure 10b] FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric view of a damping device according to one embodiment. [Figure 11a] FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric view of a damping device according to one embodiment. [Figure 11b] FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric view of a damping device according to one embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a schematic flow chart diagram illustrating a method for disposing a damping device on a folding ladder according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0032] Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the present invention to those skilled in the art. The terms used in the detailed description of the specific embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings are not intended to limit the present invention. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements.

[0033] It is an object of the present invention to provide a damping device for use in ladder sections of a folding ladder, which reduces the complexity of the damping device and improves the manufacturing process by reducing the number of parts. Thus, a more cost-effective damping device is provided. More specifically, the novel damping device reduces the need for screws or similar attachment means. This provides both benefits by increasing the manufacturing process with fewer processing steps, reducing costs, and environmental benefits. Furthermore, the asymmetrical nature of the damping blocks disclosed herein is particularly advantageous with regard to adaptability and versatility for different types of ladders associated with different damping requirements.

[0034] Another object of the invention is to provide a damping device that is applicable to any type of folding ladder. Depending on the orientation of the asymmetric damping blocks arranged in the damping device, the damping behavior of the damping device can be adjusted. The desired damping effect can therefore be achieved both when extending and when folding the folding ladder. The damping device is therefore a multi-purpose damping device. For example, in the case of a folding ladder arranged to reach the attic of a house, it is desirable for the ladder to extend automatically, for example when the roof hatch is opened. When using such a ladder, it is desirable for the damping effect to occur during its extension, so that the ladder does not, for example, hit the user's head or damage the floor or other objects in the house. For other folding ladders, it is desirable for the damping effect to occur instead during its folding, so that the user does not have to risk, for example, pinching his fingers.

[0035] Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed disclosure, the appended claims and the drawings. It is to be noted that the present invention relates to all possible combinations of features.

[0036] In FIG. 1a, the folding ladder 1 is shown in a fully extended state. The folding ladder 1 comprises several ladder sections 5a-j, each of which comprises two ladder tubes 10, 12 and one rung 20a-k. The ladder sections 5a-j are U-shaped, with the two ladder tubes 10, 12 arranged parallel to each other and interconnected at one end by one rung 20a-k. The rung 20a-k is arranged horizontally between the vertically arranged ladder tubes 10, 12, i.e. substantially perpendicular to the ladder tubes 10, 12. The ladder tubes 10, 12 are divided into ladder tube sections 40a-j, which extend and retract relative to each other. A ladder tube section 40a-j that is arranged higher than another ladder tube section 40a-j, for example section 40a that is arranged higher than section 40b, has an outer diameter that is smaller than the inner diameter of the lower section 40b. This allows the upper section 40a to telescope between an extended state and a collapsed or retracted state inside the lower section 40b.

[0037] Each ladder tube section 40a-k may be constructed of different materials, for example formed as an extruded aluminum profile. The appropriate length of the ladder tube sections 40a-k may vary depending on national standards and the design of the ladder 1. The length of the ladder tube sections 40a-k may depend on the desired distance between the rungs 20a-k. The distance between the rungs 20a-k may be controlled by different standards, for example the recommended distance between the rungs according to the European standard is 250-300 mm.

[0038] The maximally folded ladder 1 is shown in FIG. 1b. In this state, the ladder 1 can be easily transported between locations or stored appropriately. The lowest ladder section 6 comprises a fixed rung 21 provided at the bottom of the ladder, which is designed to provide additional foot support and make the lowest ladder section 6 more stable. As can be seen in FIG. 1b, the lowest ladder section 6 is stationary and cannot be nested into the other sections 5a-j. This makes the ladder 1 easier to transport. The lowest ladder section 6 may comprise two rungs, namely the fixed rung 21 and rung 20k.

[0039] The ladder tubes 10, 12 may comprise end portions 13 on which the ladder stands. The end portions 13 are therefore arranged at the bottom of the ladder tubes 10, 12. The end portions 13 may be provided with a material with high friction, thus reducing the risk of the ladder 1 moving during use.

[0040] A locking or retention mechanism may be provided for telescoping and extending the ladder 1. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 1a-b, the retention mechanism comprises a number of actuators 30 arranged on each individual rung 20a-k for releasing the respective sections 5a-j. The retention mechanism comprises a spring-loaded locking pin (not shown) which is inserted into a locking hole in the ladder tube 10, 12 to lock the ladder section 5a to another adjacent ladder section 5b. Each section 5a-j is released individually by using an actuator 30 (such as a rotating or sliding button) arranged on either side of the rung 20a-k. By using the actuator 30, for example by sliding the sliding buttons towards each other, the locking pin is withdrawn from the respective locking hole in the ladder tube 10, 12.

[0041] In one embodiment, the ladder 1 comprises only a pair of actuators 30. The pair of actuators 30 may be arranged in front of the second, lowest rung 20k. The pair of actuators 30 can still fold the entire ladder 1. Alternatively, the ladder 1 comprises a first pair of actuators 30 arranged in the second, topmost rung 20b and a second pair of actuators 30 arranged in the rungs 20b-j located between the second, topmost rung 20b and the second, bottommost rung 20k. The second pair of actuators 30 allows the lowering of the lower part of the folding ladder 1, and the first pair of actuators 30 allows the lowering of the upper part of the folding ladder 1. Such actuators 30 are described in EP 1 728 966, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0042] In a further embodiment, the pins of the lowest ladder section 6 can be withdrawn from interaction with the respective holes in the tubes of the adjacent ladder section 5j by operating a foot control arranged and disposed to be operated by the foot of a user using the ladder 1.

[0043] It should be noted that although only a few types of locking / retaining mechanisms are mentioned herein, any type of mechanism suitable for folding and extending a folding ladder may be used.

[0044] FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of a rung 20. The rung 20 comprises a main section 22, a first bracket section 24a, and a second bracket section 24b. The first and second bracket sections 24a-b are disposed at each end of the rung 20 to receive a respective ladder tube 10, 12. Each bracket section 24a-b is disposed with an opening 26a-b having the same shape as the cross-sectional shape of the corresponding ladder tube 10, 12. The cross-sectional shapes of the ladder tubes 10, 12 may have a characteristic shape. The cross-sectional shape of the openings 26a-b in FIG. 2 is triangular. The shape of the openings 26a-b in the rung 20 shall correspond to the cross-sectional shapes of the ladder tubes 10, 12.

[0045] In other embodiments, the shapes of the openings 26a-b may be different when the ladder tubes 10, 12 have different cross-sectional shapes. For example, in one embodiment, each opening 26a-b includes a total of six sections: straight sections and five additional sections of convex shape.

[0046] The rung 20 may be provided as a single integral unit, with the main section 22, the first bracket section 24a, and the second bracket section 24b being a single piece. The main section 22 and the first and second bracket sections 24a-b may be formed of the same material. The material may be, for example, a thermoplastic material such as polyamide (nylon). The material may be reinforced by adding a fiberglass composition. In another embodiment, the first bracket section 24a and the second bracket section 24b are provided as separate units that are attached to the main section 22 of the rung 20, for example, by a press fit.

[0047] Although not shown in Fig. 1a-b, the ladder tubes 10, 12, and thus the ladder tube sections 40a-k, may be provided with any number of mounting holes. The holes may be manufactured, for example, using punching, drilling, milling or electrical discharge machining. Each mounting hole corresponds to a rung projection arranged on each bracket section 24a, 24b of the rung 20, and cooperation between the mounting holes and the rung projections allows for a secure positioning of the rung 20 on the ladder tubes 10, 12. It is also noted that the tubes 10, 12 may be provided with more holes, for example fastening holes for a device that prevents the ladder from being pulled apart accidentally, or for bracket sections used to connect a stabilization system.

[0048] The damping device and how it is disposed in the ladder tube sections 40a-k will now be described in detail with reference to different embodiments in Figs. 3-12. For the sake of brevity, some general exemplary abstractions are considered. Although not explicitly visualized, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments defined herein should in no way be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the damping device may be disposed in any ladder tube section, provided that it is disposed in an inner ladder tube section relative to a corresponding outer ladder tube section. Furthermore, the receiving means, the mounting means, the receiving portion, and the asymmetric damping block are each shown as including two units. However, the concept of the present invention is equally applicable to one or more of these units.

[0049] A first embodiment of the damping device 120 will now be described with reference to Figures 3 to 6. Figures 3a to 3h show isometric views of the ladder tube sections 40a-b arranged with the damping device 120. The damping device 120 is generally arranged between the ladder tube sections 40a, 40b of the folding ladder 1, as shown, for example, in Figure 3g. More specifically, the damping device 120 is arranged between the inner ladder tube section 40a and the outer ladder tube section 40b, with the inner ladder tube section 40a being slidably arranged (telescopically insertable) within the outer ladder tube section 40b. The inner ladder tube section 40a is partially arranged inside the outer ladder tube section 40b. For the sake of simplicity, the examples of the damping device 120 described herein are mainly directed to a single damping device 120 arranged between the inner and outer ladder tube sections 40a-b. However, those skilled in the art will of course appreciate that a damping device 120 may be disposed between one or more of the ladder tube sections 40a-k, as described with reference to Figure 1a, to provide a damping effect for each of the ladder tube sections 40a-k. The lowest ladder tube section 40k is optionally disposed without a damping device 120. In a preferred embodiment, a respective damping device 120 is disposed in each of the plurality of ladder tube sections 40a-k to provide a damping effect for all of the ladder tube sections 40a-k.

[0050] 4a-b, the inner ladder tube section 40a has a body extending as an elongated portion, an inner sidewall 44a, an upper end portion (not shown), and a lower end portion 43a. The upper end portion is disposed opposite the lower end portion 43a. In one embodiment, the damping device 120 is adapted to be attached to the lower end portion 43a.

[0051] Like the inner ladder tube section 40a, the outer ladder tube section 40b has a body extending as an elongated portion. As mentioned above, the diameter of the body is slightly larger than the diameter of the main body. The outer ladder tube section 40b has an inner sidewall 44b. When the ladder tube sections 40a, 40b are placed in a ladder, the inner sidewall 44b of the outer ladder tube section 40b is slidably positioned outside the inner ladder tube section 40a so as to partially surround the inner ladder tube section 40a.

[0052] In some embodiments, the inner ladder tube section 40a is arranged with at least one receiving means 42a. The receiving means 42a may be in the form of a closed opening. In one embodiment, the receiving means 42a is a hole configured to receive a fastening means for further fastening the damping device 140. Preferably, the receiving means is arranged near one end of the inner ladder tube section 40a. The ladder tube section 40a may have two receiving means.

[0053] As best seen in Figures 3a-h, the damping device 120 comprises at least one attachment means 122 adapted to receive an asymmetric damping block 140. The attachment means 122 may comprise a cavity 123. The asymmetric damping block 140 is adapted to be disposed on the attachment means such that at least one surface 142a-b thereof slidably abuts about a circumferential location of the inner sidewall 44b of the outer ladder tube section 40b. The terms "abut", "contact" and "engage" are used interchangeably herein in this setting.

[0054] The location of the one or more attachment means 122 depends on the cross-sectional shape of the ladder tube 10, 12. As shown in Fig. 3a, in a triangular cross-section, there are two attachment means 122, which is advantageous if the attachment means 122 are located on two of the edges of the triangle. In a preferred embodiment, the two attachment means 122 are located at a distance from each other. In this way, sufficient damping is achieved on the ladder tube sections 40a-b.

[0055] The attachment means 122 may comprise a slot that faces the inner sidewall 44b of the outer ladder tube section 40b. The slot may face the inner sidewall 44b about any circumferential location. The slot comprises a cavity, and the asymmetric damping block 140 is adapted to fit within the cavity. A different way to describe the cavity is that it is disposed within the attachment means 122 or forms part of the attachment means.

[0056] The attachment means 122 may comprise two or more slots or cavities 123 facing different circumferential positions around the inner sidewall 44b of the outer ladder tube section 40b. Each slot 123 may be adapted to receive an asymmetric damping block 140. Alternatively, two or more separate asymmetric damping blocks 140 can be fitted into a single slot. The additional asymmetric damping blocks 140 typically generate higher frictional forces against the ladder tube sections 40a-b. Thus, the damping effect can be tailored to different types of ladders by adjusting the number of asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b and slots in the damping device 120. The embodiment of Figures 3a-b shows two slots or cavities 123a-b.

[0057] The fitting of the asymmetric damping block 140 in the cavity can be easily automated during manufacture of the ladder 1 and / or the damping device 120. Furthermore, such a solution allows the damping apparatus 120 to be installable on multiple different types of ladder tube modules, since it is no longer dependent on specific screws and corresponding apertures, or other similar fastening structures.

[0058] Depending on how the asymmetric damping block 140 is arranged in the mounting means 122, different damping behaviors can be achieved. This is particularly useful since it allows the damping behavior to be adjusted depending on which type of ladder 1 is used for which purpose. In some embodiments, the asymmetric damping block 140 may be movably arranged in the mounting means 122 allowing for damping behavior adjustment, so that any situation in which damping in the ladder 1 is desired can be achieved. In a general interpretation, the damping behavior corresponds to how the asymmetric damping block 140 acts upon contacting the inner sidewall 44b when the inner ladder tube section 40a is extending outwardly or retracting inwardly relative to the outer ladder tube section 40b. In other words, the damping behavior of the asymmetric damping block 140 corresponds to a specific frictional force that occurs upon slidable contact between at least two surfaces, in this case at least one surface 142a-b of the asymmetric damping block 140 and the inner sidewall 44b of the outer ladder tube section 40b. The specific frictional force may be predetermined based on a defined shape of the asymmetric damping block 140. The damping behavior is further explained with reference to Figures 5a-b and 6a-b.

[0059] One embodiment of a damping block is shown in Fig. 3c. The main body 141 of the asymmetric damping block 140 comprises at least two damping surfaces 142a-b. The two damping surfaces 142a-b may face in different directions. The damping surfaces 142a-b preferably comprise at least two surface portions 144a, 144b each. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3c, the first damping surface 142a comprises four surface portions 144a and the second damping surface 142b comprises four surface portions 144b. As will be understood, a different number of surface portions is also possible and within the scope of the present invention. The surface portions 144a, 144b may be located at different heights from each other.

[0060] The damping device 140 is advantageous because it provides an alternative means for producing optional damping directions with the same device, which saves costs on the manufacturing process and warehouse handling since there is no need to have two different manufacturing tools or to stock two different components.

[0061] The asymmetric damping block 140 includes a first bent portion 148 connecting the at least two damping surfaces 142a-b. The first bent portion 148 may be disposed toward the inner wall 44b of the outer ladder tube section 40b when the asymmetric damping block 140 is disposed within the damping device 120 and the damping device 120 is disposed within the inner ladder tube section 40a.

[0062] The main body 141 further comprises a top surface 141a and a bottom surface 141b. The bottom surface 141b is disposed opposite the top surface 141. It should be noted that once the damping block is rotated, the top surface may face the ground and the bottom surface may face the ground. Thus, the top surface and the bottom surface should be considered as first and second surfaces disposed opposite each other.

[0063] The main body 141 further comprises an end portion 149. The end portion 149 is disposed opposite the bent portion 148. The end portion 149 is disposed opposite the damping surfaces 142a-b. The end portion 149 is configured to be disposed within the mounting means 122 of the damping device 120. This is shown in figure 3d.

[0064] When the surfaces 142a-b of the asymmetric damping block 140 slidably abut the inner sidewall 44b, a frictional force is generated between the surfaces of the asymmetric damping block 140 and the inner sidewall 44b, thereby producing a damping effect on the ladder tube sections 40a-b. The asymmetric damping block 140 may be removably inserted into the mounting means 122 to achieve adjustment of the damping effect using the same asymmetric damping block 140.

[0065] The asymmetric damping block 140 may be made of a flexible homogenous material, such as a plastic and / or rubber composition. The material may be, for example, an elastomeric or polymeric material. The asymmetric damping block 140 may be a single, integral, pre-formed block.

[0066] The preformed block does not rely on any fastening means such as screws, bolts, knobs, etc. and associated apertures to be able to be placed in the cavity 123. This simplifies the manufacturing procedure of the asymmetric damping block 140 and therefore the damping device 120. Furthermore, the asymmetric damping block 140 is an acceptable damping solution as it does not rely on the specific dimensions of the ladder tube sections 40a-b.

[0067] 3a-b, further parts of the damping device 120 will now be described.

[0068] The damping device comprises a main body 121. The main body 121 preferably has a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the ladder tube section 40a to be arranged. The damping device 120 may further comprise an inclined or chamfered surface 130. The inclined or chamfered surface 130 extends in the same direction as the arrangement of the cavities 123. In other words, the inclined or chamfered surface 130 has an extension in the direction facing the outer ladder tube 40b.

[0069] When the ladder section 40a reaches the locking pin, the angled or chamfered surface 130 of the damping device 220 interacts with the locking pin such that the locking pin is pushed, allowing the ladder section to pass through the locking pin, and defeating the retention mechanism and locking of the lower ladder section held by the locking pin, as only the chamfered end of the locking pin is holding the bar section in place and the weight of the ladder section pushes the locking pin further away from the tube section.

[0070] The damping device 120 may further comprise an engagement surface 125 configured to engage with the inner ladder tube 40a. In the illustrated embodiment, the damping device 140 comprises two engagement surfaces 125, 125. The engagement surfaces 125, 125 are disposed above the respective cavities 123a, 123b. The engagement surfaces 125 extend in a direction opposite to the arrangement of the cavities 123 compared to the main body 121. The engagement surfaces 125 are disposed in a direction opposite to the inclined or chamfered surface 130, if present. In other words, the engagement surfaces 125 extend in a direction facing the inner ladder tube 40a.

[0071] The engagement surface 125 is disposed with an engagement means 128. The engagement means 128 may be any type of protrusion adapted to engage an opening or receiving means 42a of the inner ladder tube section 40a. When the engagement surface 125 is disposed on the inner ladder tube section 40a, it is disposed on the outside of the inner ladder tube 40a. This is shown in Figures 3d-e.

[0072] The damping device 120 may further include a mounting protrusion 129. The mounting protrusion 129 may be, for example, a pig or other similar structure that protrudes from the main body 121. The mounting protrusion 129 is configured to help secure the damping device 120 within the inner ladder tube 40a. The mounting protrusion 129 is fastened to the inside of the inner ladder tube 40a.

[0073] The damping device 120 preferably comprises one or more protrusions 124a-i. The protrusions 124 extend from the main body 121 and form part of the top portion of the damping device 120. The protrusions 124a-i are preferably arranged to contact the inner tube 40a. The protrusions 124a-i are arranged to be clamped inside the inner surface of the inner tube 40a. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3b, a plurality of protrusions 124a-i are arranged on the damping device 120. The number of protrusions 124a-i may vary, for example, it may be nine. As shown in FIG. 3a-h, when the ladder tube is rectangular in shape, the damping device 120 has three protrusions on each side, thus adding up to nine protrusions. However, it will be appreciated that other numbers and configurations of protrusions are also possible.

[0074] In one embodiment, the protrusions 122 are disposed on raised support structures 121a disposed on the main body 121. If present, the raised support structures 121a are not in direct contact with the inner ladder tube 40a. However, as discussed above, when the support structures 121a are disposed with the protrusions 122, they will be in contact with the inner ladder tube 40a.

[0075] The damping device 120 may further comprise a guiding means, which may be arranged to guide the inner ladder tube 40a and the damping device 120 into the outer ladder tube 40b. The guiding means may be a protruding part. The guiding means may be a flap. If the damping device 120 comprises two attachment means 122a-b, the guiding means is preferably arranged between the two attachment means 122a-b. The length of the guiding means is preferably the same as the length of the guiding means.

[0076] The main body 121 of the damping device 120 may further include a through hole 126. The through hole 126 is preferably located in the center of the main body. In a preferred embodiment, the through hole 126 is located with a protrusion extending around the circumference of the hole 126. The hole 126 may be used during manufacturing and / or installation of the damping device 120.

[0077] Figures 3a, 3d, 3e and 3g further illustrate how the damping device 120 can be arranged on a ladder. In Figure 3a, an inner ladder tube section 40a and a damping device 120 are provided. The damping device 120 comprises attachment means 122a-b adapted to receive a damping block 140. The attachment means 122a-b have at least one cavity 123a-b. In the embodiment shown in Figures 3a-g, the damping device 120 comprises two attachment means 122a-b, each attachment means 122a-b comprising a cavity 123a-b. Each cavity is arranged to at least partially surround a respective asymmetric damping device 140a-b.

[0078] When the damping device 120 is pressed into the inner ladder tube 40a, the engagement surfaces 125 and their respective engagement means 128 engage with the receiving means 42a of the inner ladder tube section 40a. Additionally, the mounting projections 129 further secure the damping device within the inner ladder tube 40a. Additionally, the projections 124a-i contact the inner surface 44a of the inner ladder tube 40a.

[0079] In Fig. 3d, two asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b are provided. The asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b are adapted to be placed in the cavities 123a-b, for example by clamping. The asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b may advantageously be placed at different positions in the cavities, having different orientations and different sizes. This will be further explained with reference to Figs. 4-5.

[0080] Figures 3e and 3f show two asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b arranged in the cavity 123a-b of the damping device 120, which are arranged in or on the inner ladder tube section 40a. As shown, at least one surface 142a-b of the asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b protrudes at least partially from the cavity of the damping device 120. These surfaces should slidably abut the outer ladder tube section 40b to allow a damping behavior in a corresponding step.

[0081] In Figures 3g and 3h, the inner ladder tube section 40a is slidably inserted into the outer ladder tube section 40b.

[0082] The asymmetric damping block 140 can be positioned in the cavities 123a, 123b of the mounting means 122a-b in at least two different orientations, the different orientations of the damping block resulting in different damping behavior.

[0083] Figures 4a-b show two different orientations of the attenuation block 140. In Figure 4a, the attenuation block 140 is disposed in a first orientation, and in Figure 4b, the attenuation block 140 is disposed in a second orientation. The second orientation may correspond to a rotation of about 180° of the attenuation block compared to the first orientation.

[0084] The damping blocks 140a-b include a plurality of surfaces 142a-i, at least one of which, in this case 142a, slidably abuts the inner sidewall 44b of the outer ladder tube section 40b about two different circumferential locations.

[0085] The asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b are asymmetric about a central axis extending horizontally from a center point C from the inside to the outside of the ladder tube sections 40a-b. In some embodiments, the asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b may be asymmetric about a central axis extending vertically.

[0086] In some embodiments, the damping behavior is determined during manufacture of the ladder 1 and / or the damping device 120. The desired damping behavior is obtained by inserting asymmetric damping blocks 140 having a particular size, orientation, and particular position. Different damping behaviors of the inner ladder tube section 40a may depend in different embodiments on the orientation, position, and / or size of the asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b placed within the cavities 123a-b.

[0087] The damping behavior and damping effect caused by the damping block 140 will now be described with reference to Figures 4-6. In summary, the damping block 140 can be arranged in at least two different orientations, as shown in Figures 4a-b. The different orientations cause at least two damping behaviors, as shown in Figures 5 and 6, respectively. Each damping behavior has at least two effects: a first damping behavior as shown in Figures 5a-b and a second damping behavior as shown in Figures 6a-b. The effect can be either to provide damping or no damping to the ladder tube.

[0088] In Fig. 4a, a first orientation of the asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b causes a first damping behavior of the ladder pipe sections 40a-b, which may correspond to the behavior shown in Fig. 5a-b. In Fig. 4b, a second orientation of the asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b causes a second damping behavior of the ladder pipe sections 40a-b, which may correspond to the behavior shown in Fig. 6a-b.

[0089] As shown in the diagrams of Figures 4a-b, at least the surface 142a slidably abuts the inner wall 44b in both cases. When the damping device 120 is arranged in the orientation shown in Figure 4a, a space 127 is formed between the outer ladder tube section 40b and the damping block 140. When the damping block is forced to move, it moves into the space 127. The movement or rotation creates a damping effect on the ladder tube. When the damping block 140 is arranged stationary, no damping force is generated on the ladder tube. Figures 5a-b show a first damping behavior, and Figures 6a-b show a second damping behavior. The arrows in the figures show the ongoing movement of the ladder tube sections 40a-b relative to each other. The upward arrows correspond to the outward expansion of the inner ladder tube section 40a relative to the outer ladder tube section 40b. The downward arrows correspond to the inward retraction (or collapse) of the inner ladder tube section 40a relative to the outer ladder tube section 40b.

[0090] The asymmetric damping blocks 140 disposed on the mounting means 122 cause predictable damping behavior in a given situation. Each damping behavior includes a first and a second effect, respectively. These effects are caused by the interaction of the damping blocks and the relative motion of the ladder tube sections 40a-b, i.e., extension or retraction. The first and second effects are typically opposite effects, such as damped and undamped, and will be further explained shortly.

[0091] Figures 5a-b show the damping block in a first orientation (or position). Figure 5a shows the outward expansion of the inner ladder tube section 40a relative to the outer ladder tube section 40b. The outward expansion of the inner ladder tube section 40a relative to the outer ladder tube section 40b relieves the damping effect caused by the asymmetric damping block 140. In other words, the damping effect by the asymmetric damping block 140 is released. This is referred to as the first effect.

[0092] In Fig. 5b, the inward retraction of the inner ladder tube section 40a relative to the outer ladder tube section 40b forces the asymmetric damping block 140 into contact with the inner sidewall of the outer ladder tube section 40b. Thus, the asymmetric damping block 140 moves more and more such that the frictional force generated by the asymmetric damping block 140 is increased. The movement may optionally be accompanied by a slight deformation of the damping block 140. This is referred to as the second effect.

[0093] Figures 6a-b show the damping block in a second orientation (or position). Figure 6a shows the outward expansion of the inner ladder tube section 40a relative to the outer ladder tube section 40b. The outward expansion of the inner ladder tube section 40a relative to the outer ladder tube section 40b forces the asymmetric damping block 140 to move, causing a damping effect on the ladder tube sections 40a-b. This is referred to as the second effect.

[0094] 6b shows the inward setback of the inner ladder tube section 40a relative to the outer ladder tube section 40b. The inward setback of the inner ladder tube section 40a relative to the outer ladder tube section 40b relieves the damping effect caused by the asymmetric damping block 140. This is referred to as the first effect.

[0095] As should be noted by one skilled in the art, depending on how the asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b are arranged within the cavity 123, different damping behaviors may be exhibited for the same movement of the ladder tube sections 40a-b.

[0096] As previously mentioned, the asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b may produce different damping behaviors depending on their respective orientations. For example, each 45° may correspond to a particular damping behavior, namely 45°, 90°, 135°, and 180°. Other behaviors may be realized for asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b having other asymmetric characteristics.

[0097] In one or more embodiments, the size of the asymmetric damping block 140 placed in the attachment means 122 will cause the damping behavior. The size of the asymmetric damping block 140 will cause a larger or smaller portion of it to contact the outer ladder tube section 40a-b, thereby increasing or decreasing the frictional force generated. Sizing of the asymmetric damping block 140 may be achieved by providing the asymmetric damping block 140 with a flexible homogeneous material, such as those previously described. Alternatively, the asymmetric damping block 140 may be entirely made of a flexible homogeneous material. The flexible material may flex when a force is applied to temporarily reduce a dimension in order to place the asymmetric damping block 140 within the attachment means 122. In other embodiments, the damping device 120 may use a spring-based system that allows for a temporary reduction in dimension. Alternatively, the flexible material may be temperature sensitive, such that the prevailing temperature, or possibly humidity, will temporarily reduce or increase the size of the asymmetric damping block 140.

[0098] In addition to the damping block 140 described with reference to figures 3 to 6, other embodiments are possible. Figures 7a-c show additional embodiments 550; 550'; 550", in which the asymmetric damping blocks 550; 550'; 550", in figures 7a-c, each comprise a main body 551. The main body 551 of the asymmetric damping block 550; 550' comprises at least two first damping surfaces 552a-b. The two first damping surfaces 552a-b may face in different directions from each other. The asymmetric damping block 550; 550'; 550", may further comprise at least one secondary damping surface 554, each secondary damping surface 554 being disposed below its respective first damping surface 552a-b. The first damping surfaces 552a-b extend further from the main body 551 than the second damping surfaces 554a-b.

[0099] The asymmetric damping block 550;550' comprises a first bent portion 558 connecting the at least two first damping surfaces 552a-b. The first bent portion 558 may be disposed towards the inner wall 44b of the outer ladder tube section 40b when the asymmetric damping block 550;550' is disposed within the damping device 120 and the damping device 120 is disposed within the inner ladder tube section 40a.

[0100] The embodiment shown in Fig. 7b is similar to the embodiment of Fig. 7a, differing mainly in that it comprises more damping surfaces: an asymmetric damping block 550' comprises four first damping surfaces 552a-b and four second damping surfaces 554, two of which are arranged on either side of a first bend portion 558.

[0101] The embodiment shown in FIG. 7c shows an asymmetric damping block 550″ with one primary damping surface 552a. The asymmetric damping block 550″ may further comprise one secondary damping surface 554. In this embodiment, the asymmetric damping block 550″ does not have any bent portions 558.

[0102] The asymmetric damping blocks 550, 550', 550" shown in Figures 7a-7c can be used together with the damping device 120 defined or together with any of the damping devices 120; 220; 320; 420 described below with reference to Figures 8-12.

[0103] Before turning to further embodiments of the damping device, two further embodiments of the inner ladder tube section 40a will be described with reference to Figs. 8a-c. In some embodiments, the inner ladder tube section 40a comprises a receiving means 42 arranged to receive the damping device 120. In one embodiment, as shown in Fig. 8a, the inner ladder tube section 40a comprises two receiving means 42a, 42b, both of which are in the shape of a closed opening. The openings of the receiving means 42a, 42b have dimensions slightly larger than the corresponding mounting means 122a, 122b of the damping device 120. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 8a, the receiving means 42a, 42b are rectangular in shape. However, the receiving means 42a, 42b may have other shapes depending on the shape of the damping device 120 and the cross-sectional shape of the ladder tube sections 40a-b.

[0104] As shown in Figure 8b, the inner ladder tube section 40a' may have receiving means 42a'-b' forming a non-obstructed opening, such as a recess. Yet another embodiment is shown in Figure 8c.

[0105] Preferably, the receiving means 42a-b is located near one end of the inner ladder tube section 40a. In embodiments where the receiving means 122a-b is a closed opening, the distance between the top of the opening and one of the end portions 43a-b of the inner ladder tube section 40a is about 0.5-6 mm, preferably 1-4 mm, and even more preferably 2-3 mm. However, as described in other embodiments, the receiving means 42a-b may be a non-closed opening, such as a recess.

[0106] The position of the two receiving means 42a-b depends on the cross-sectional shape of the ladder tube 10, 12. In a triangular cross-section, it is advantageous if the two receiving means 42a-b are arranged at two of the edges of the triangle, as shown in figure 8a. In a preferred embodiment, the two receiving means 42a-b are arranged at a distance from each other. In this way, sufficient damping is achieved on the ladder tube sections 40a-b.

[0107] The inner ladder tube section 40a may further comprise a recess 46 for receiving an inclined or chamfered surface. The recess 46 is preferably located between the two receiving means 42a-b.

[0108] Next, different embodiments of the damping device will be described with reference to Figs.

[0109] In one or more embodiments, a portion of the damping device is positioned to extend over an inner sidewall above one edge of the inner ladder tube section. In one or more embodiments, the damping device is positioned such that it can temporarily reduce its dimensions to fit the inner ladder tube section. In one or more embodiments, the damping device comprises a flexible material. In one or more embodiments, the damping device comprises a spring-based mechanism that allows it to change dimensions when a force is applied. In one or more embodiments, the damping device comprises at least one pivot point that allows for temporary change in the dimension or size of the damping device. In one or more embodiments, the at least one pivot point is a moveable arm that allows for the damping device to be press-fit or clamped into the inner ladder tube section. In one or more embodiments, the receiving means is a closed opening, a partially closed opening, or a recess. In one or more embodiments, the damping device comprises a plurality of protruding portions for attachment to the receiving means.

[0110] 9a-d show an embodiment of a damping device 220. The damping device 220 comprises a main mounting body 221 having a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the ladder tube section 40a in which it is to be placed. The damping device 220 may be constructed of any type of suitable plastic material.

[0111] As can be seen in Fig. 9a, the damping device 220 comprises two attachment means 122a, 122b (122a is obscured due to the isometric view showing only one side). When the damping device 220 is placed on the inner ladder tube section 40a, the two attachment means 122a, 122b are placed with the receiving means 42a, 42b of the inner ladder tube section 40d. The number of attachment means 222 typically corresponds to the number of receiving means 42 of the ladder tube section.

[0112] The attachment means 222a-b may comprise recesses or depressions in the main body 221 arranged to receive the respective asymmetric damping blocks, as described herein. In some embodiments, the attachment means 222a-b may comprise through holes instead of recesses or depressions.

[0113] The attachment means 222a-b may be arranged with an upper protrusion 224a and a lower protrusion 224b, which are arranged on opposite sides of the opening of the attachment means 222a-b in the direction of extension / retraction of the ladder tube. The protrusions 224a-b may help to maintain the damping device 220 in place within the ladder tube section 40a.

[0114] The lower protrusion 224a and the upper protrusion 224b form a protruding surface 226 with the main body 221. The protruding surface 226 and the attachment means 222a, 222b are configured to receive a respective asymmetric damping block (not shown).

[0115] Figure 9b is a top view of the embodiment shown in Figure 9a. The main body comprises a movable arm 228 having a first portion 228a and a second portion 228b. The first portion 228a of the arm 228 is preferably connected to the main body 221 by a pivot point (not shown). The first portion 228a is thus arranged as a pivot point around which the arm 228 pivots. The second portion 228b is pivotable between a first position P1 shown in Figure 9b and a second position P2 shown in Figure 9c. The pivot point serves to reduce the diameter of the main body 221 when the arm 228 is arranged in the first position P1.

[0116] In the first position P1, the arm 228 is pivoted towards the inside of the damping device 220. This position of the arm 228 allows it to have a small dimension so that it can be moved inside the ladder tube sections 40a-k to place the damping device 220 in its correct position. This position is therefore only used during installation and removal of the damping device 220.

[0117] In the second position P2, the arm 228 is pivoted outwardly towards the inner ladder tube section 40a in which it is located. In this position, the damping device 220 is locked in the inner ladder tube section 40a by clamping. When the arm 228 is moved to the second position P2, the dimensions of the damping device 220 are such that it is clamped towards the inner wall of the inner ladder tube section 40a, i.e. the width of the damping device 220 is slightly smaller than the width of the inner ladder tube section 40a.

[0118] The main body 221 is arranged with at least one pivot point 225. In the embodiment shown in Figures 9a-d, the main body 221 is arranged with two pivot points, a central pivot point 225 and a pivot point between the two arm portions 228a-b. The central pivot point 225 serves to further reduce the diameter of the main body 221 when the arms 228 are arranged in the first position P1.

[0119] Although described above with a pivot arm 228, it should be noted that the damping device 220 can have other types of features that can reduce the size of the device. The damping device 220 can include, for example, a flexible material that flexes when a force is applied, resulting in a temporary reduction in size for attaching the damping device 220 to the ladder tube sections 40a-k. In other embodiments, the damping device 220 can use a spring-based system that can temporarily reduce in size.

[0120] 9a-d, the main body 221 may further comprise one or more internal recesses 227 for connecting different portions of the main body 221.

[0121] As further seen in Figures 9a-b, the damping device 220 may be arranged with an inclined or chamfered surface 230. When the ladder section 40a reaches the locking pin, the inclined or chamfered surface 230 of the damping device 220 interacts with the locking pin such that the locking pin is pushed. This allows the ladder section to pass through the locking pin. This also defeats the retention mechanism and locking of the lower ladder section held by the locking pin as only the chamfered end of the locking pin is holding the bar section in place and the weight of the ladder section pushes the locking pin further away from the tube section.

[0122] The damping device 2120 may be placed inside the inner ladder tube section 40a. As shown in FIG. 9e, the damping device 220 comprises two mounting means 2122a-b receiving the respective asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b. In FIG. 9e, the two asymmetric damping blocks 40a-b are placed in their respective damping positions, so that the inner ladder tube section 40a is ready to receive the outer ladder tube section (not shown). The asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b are attached to the damping device 220 when the damping device 220 is placed in its inner ladder tube section 40a. As mentioned above, the attachment may be done by tightening. Thus, no screws or other fixed fastening mechanisms are required. As can be seen in FIG. 9e, the damping device 120 is attached inside the inner ladder tube section 40a. The damping device 120 is axially locked with the inner ladder tube section 40a. The asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b are attached from the outside in the mounting means 222a-b. The attachment means 222a-b may be, for example, slots in the main body 221 of the damping device having respective cavities. The asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b are secured both axially and radially at the attachment means 222a-b. In one embodiment, the asymmetric damping blocks 140a-b are attached within the attachment means 222a-b, which may be through holes in the main body 121. The above section regarding placement of the damping blocks applies to all embodiments of the damping devices 120, 220, 320, 420 disclosed herein.

[0123] The damping device 220 may further comprise a number of locking shoulders 229 arranged on the upper and lower projections. This is shown in FIG. 9d. The locking shoulders 229 serve to fix the damping device 220 to the inner ladder tube section 40a'. This embodiment of the damping device 220 is particularly beneficial when the inner ladder tube section 40a' has receiving means 42a'-b' forming non-closed openings such as recesses. Each recess is formed by a lower end 48 and two side surfaces 45 arranged opposite each other. On the opposite sides of the lower end 48, two extension elements 47 are arranged, which partially surround the recesses. The locking shoulders 229 of the damping device 220 are arranged to connect with the two extension elements 47.

[0124] 10a-b show a third embodiment of the damping device 320. The damping device 320 is preferably disposed within the inner ladder pipe section 40a″ shown in FIG. 8c. The third embodiment of the damping device 320 is similar to the second embodiment of the damping device 220, except that the main body lacks a moveable arm. Instead, the damping device 320 is connected to the inner ladder pipe section 40a″ by a screw, nail or a separate member that is not attached to the receiving means 42a″-b″ (here in the form of a recess forming a non-obstructed opening).

[0125] 11a-b show a further embodiment of a damping device 420, which can be arranged in the inner ladder tube section 40a, for example as seen in FIG. 8a. The damping device 420 comprises a main body 421, which has a shape corresponding to the cross-sectional shape of the ladder tube section 40a in which it is arranged. The damping device 420 comprises two attachment means 422a-b. The attachment means 422a-b are arranged with an upper protrusion 424a and a lower protrusion 424b, which are arranged opposite each opening of the attachment means 422a-b in the direction of the ladder tube extension. These protrusions 424a-b can help to keep the damping device 420 in place in the ladder tube section 40a. The protrusions 424a-b together with the main body 421 form respective protruding surfaces 426. The protruding surface 426 and the attachment means 422a-b are configured to receive a respective asymmetric damping block 140a-b. The main body 421 has a first vertical end 422a and a second vertical end 422b. The main body 421 is preferably constructed at least in part from a flexible material, thus allowing the damping device 420 to fit onto the ladder tube section 40a.

[0126] The damping device 420 may be arranged with an angled or chamfered surface 430 having the same functionality as described in relation to Figures 9a-e. In this embodiment, the angled surface 430 is disposed on the upper surface of the main body 421 of the damping device 420 such that it extends above the upper end of the damping device 420 and above the end of the inner ladder tube section 40a to which the damping device 120 is attached.

[0127] The damping device 420 shown in FIG. 11a has an inclined surface 430 disposed on the upper surface of the damping device 420, eliminating the need for a recess in the ladder tube section 40a.

[0128] FIG. 11 b illustrates a situation where the damping device 420 has a sloped surface 430 extending above the top of the damping device 420 .

[0129] 12 shows a schematic flow chart diagram of a method 1500 for positioning a damping device in a folding ladder 1 according to one embodiment. In this method 1500, one ladder section 5a-j, 6 is positioned at a time, with each subsequent ladder section 5a-j, 6 being positioned below the previous ladder section 5a-j, 6. The method 1500 may further include one or more of the embodiments as described throughout this disclosure.

[0130] The method 1500 includes a first step 1510 of placing a damping device 120 ; 220 ; 320 ; 420 on a first ladder tube section 40 a , the damping device 120 comprising at least one attachment means 122 .

[0131] The method 1500 includes a next step 1520 of disposing at least one asymmetric damping block 140 within the mounting means 122 .

[0132] The method 1500 includes the step of slidably inserting the first ladder tube section 40a into the second ladder tube section 40b such that at least one surface 142 of the asymmetric damping block slidably abuts the inner sidewall 44b of the second ladder tube section 40b, thus forming a first part of the ladder sections 6, 5a-j.

[0133] Method steps 1510, 1520 and 1530 are then repeated to form a second part of the ladder section 6, 5a-j.

[0134] Once the first and second parts of the ladder sections 6, 5a-j have been formed, at 1550 these parts are interconnected by rungs 20a-k, 21 to assemble the ladder sections 6, 5a-j.

[0135] All of steps 1510, 1520, 1530, 1540, and 1550 are then repeated 1560 until a plurality of additional ladder sections 6, 5a-j have been assembled as defined by the size of the completed folding ladder 1. The difference is that each subsequent damping device 120; 220; 320; 420 in step 1510 is instead positioned on the bottom (i.e., second) ladder tube section 40b instead of the first ladder tube section 40a.

[0136] In an alternative arrangement, the entire ladder tubes 10, 12 are individually arranged one by one and then interconnected by rungs 20a-k, 21. Those skilled in the art may realise alternative manufacturing procedures by which the damping devices 120; 220; 320; 420 are arranged in accordance with the subject matter disclosed herein.

[0137] A further alternative aspect of the present disclosure will now be summarized: There is provided a damping apparatus for a telescoping ladder comprising an inner ladder tube section and an outer ladder tube section, the inner ladder tube section being slidably disposed with the inner and outer tube sections, the damping apparatus comprising a mounting member having at least one mounting means, the at least one mounting means being configured to receive a respective damping block.

[0138] A damping arrangement for a telescoping ladder is provided, the damping arrangement comprising an inner ladder tube section and an outer ladder tube section having an inner sidewall, the inner ladder tube section being slidably disposed with the inner outer tube section, the inner ladder tube section being disposed with at least one receiving means, the damping arrangement comprising a mounting member having at least one attachment means, the at least one attachment means being configured to be disposed on the at least one receiving means of the inner ladder tube, the at least one attachment means being configured to receive a respective damping block having at least one damping surface.

[0139] A damping block is provided for a damping arrangement for a telescoping ladder comprising an inner ladder tube section and an outer ladder tube section, the inner ladder tube section being slidably disposed with the inner and outer ladder tube sections, the damping block being configured to damp movement between the inner ladder tube section and the outer ladder tube section.

[0140] The damping block is asymmetric. The damping block can be inverted to change the damping effect. The damping surface of the damping block is positioned such that the damping surface abuts the inner sidewall of the outer ladder tube section when the ladder tube sections are slidably positioned.

[0141] The damping device may comprise two attachment means each configured to receive one of the damping blocks. The inner ladder tube section may be arranged with two receiving means each configured to receive a respective attachment means of the damping device.

[0142] The damping device may be at least partially disposed inside the ladder tube section. In one embodiment, the entire damping device is disposed inside the ladder tube section. In an alternative embodiment, a portion of the damping device is disposed on one of the edges of the ladder tube section such that it extends beyond the inner wall of the ladder tube.

[0143] The damping device is preferably arranged such that its dimensions can be temporarily reduced to fit the ladder tube section. This may be achieved in a number of ways, for example by using a flexible material for the damping device and / or a spring-based mechanism that allows a change in dimensions upon application of force. Additionally or alternatively, the damping device may comprise at least one pivot point that allows for a temporary change in the dimension or size of the damping device. The pivot point may be in the form of a pivotable arm. The pivot point allows the damping device to be press-fit or clamped onto the inner ladder tube section.

[0144] The ladder tube receiving means may be a closed opening, a partially closed opening or a recess.

[0145] The attachment means of the damping device may comprise a recess in the main body.

[0146] The damping device may be provided with a number of protruding portions to facilitate attachment to the receiving means.

[0147] The present invention has been described above primarily with reference to certain embodiments, however, as will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, other embodiments than those disclosed above are equally possible within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) for a folding ladder (1) comprising an inner ladder tube section (40a) and an outer ladder tube section (40b) having an inner side wall (44b), wherein the inner ladder tube section (40a) is slidably arranged together with the outer ladder tube section (40b), and the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) comprises a main body (121) having a top portion adapted to be at least partially disposed within the inner ladder tube section (40a), at least one mounting means (122; 422), an asymmetric damping block (140; 550; 550'; 550") adapted to be disposed on the at least one mounting means (122; 422), the asymmetric damping block (140; 550; 550'; 550") comprising at least one surface (142) that slidably abuts against the inner side wall (44b) of the outer ladder tube section (40b) when disposed within the folding ladder, the asymmetric damping block (140; 550; 550'; 550"), and comprising a damping device (120; 220; 320; 420).

2. The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 1, wherein the asymmetric damping block (140; 550; 550'; 550") is asymmetric with respect to a central axis extending horizontally from a central point (C) inside the ladder tube sections (40a - b) towards the outside of the ladder tube sections (40a - b).

3. The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the asymmetric damping block (140; 550; 550'; 550") is arranged to cause one of at least two different damping behaviors for the ladder tube sections (40a - b) when disposed within the mounting means (122; 422).

4. The orientation of the asymmetric damping block (140; 550; 550'; 550") with respect to the inner side wall (44b) causes the one of at least two different damping behaviors, and the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 3.

5. The position of the asymmetric damping block (140) causes the one of at least two different damping behaviors when disposed within the receiving portion (123), and the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 3.

6. Each damping behavior includes a first effect and a second effect, and the first effect and the second effect are different from each other, and the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 3.

7. The first orientation or position of the asymmetric damping block (140) causes the first damping behavior of the ladder tube section (40a - b), The second orientation or position of the asymmetric damping block (140) causes the second damping behavior of the ladder tube section (40a - b), and the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 3.

8. In the first damping behavior, The inward retreat of the inner ladder tube section (40a) with respect to the outer ladder tube section (40b) causes a second effect, and the second effect forces the asymmetric damping block (140) to move, causing a damping effect on the ladder tube section (40a - b), The outward expansion of the inner ladder tube section (40a) with respect to the outer ladder tube section (40b) causes a first effect, and the first effect releases the damping effect caused by the asymmetric damping block (140), and the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 7.

9. In the second damping behavior, The retraction of the inner ladder tube section (40a) inward with respect to the outer ladder tube section (40b) causes a first effect, and the first effect releases the damping effect caused by the asymmetric damping block (140), The extension of the inner ladder tube section (40a) outward with respect to the outer ladder tube section (40b) causes a second effect, and the second effect forces the asymmetric damping block (140) to move and causes the damping effect on the ladder tube sections (40a - b). The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 7.

10. The at least one mounting means (122; 422) has a cavity facing the inner side wall (44b), and the asymmetric damping block (140) is adapted to at least partially fit into the cavity. The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 1.

11. The damping device includes two mounting means (122; 422) each having a cavity and two damping blocks (140). Each of the cavities faces a different circumferential position around the inner side wall (44b), and the asymmetric damping block (140) is respectively adapted to at least partially fit into each of the cavities. The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 10.

12. The asymmetric damping block (140) is adapted to fit into the cavity by clamping. The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 10.

13. The asymmetric damping block (140) is a single integrated pre - formed block. The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 1.

14. The asymmetric damping block (140) is made of a flexible homogeneous material. The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 1.

15. The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 1, wherein the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) is at least partially disposed inside the inner ladder tube section (40a).

16. A part (125, 128) of the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) is disposed outside the inner ladder tube section (40a) to further fix the damping device (120) to the inner ladder tube section (40a). The damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 1.

17. A folding ladder (1) comprising a plurality of ladder sections (6, 5a-j), each ladder section being arranged parallel to each other and interconnected by rungs (20a-k, 21) to form two ladder tubes (10, 12) of each said ladder section, each ladder tube (10, 12) being telescopically inserted into the ladder tubes (10, 12) of the lower section to form the folding ladder (1), and each ladder section (6, 5a-j) comprising a damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) according to claim 1. Folding ladder (1).

18. A method (1500) for arranging a damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) on a folding ladder (1), The step (1510) of arranging the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) on the first ladder tube section (40a), wherein the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) comprises at least one mounting means (122; 422). step, The step (1520) of arranging at least one asymmetric damping block (140) on the at least one mounting means (122; 422); Step (1530) of slidably inserting the first ladder tube section (40a) into the second ladder tube section (40b), as a result of which at least one surface (142) of the asymmetric damping block (140) is slidably in contact with the inner side wall (44b) of the second ladder tube section (40b), forming a first part of the ladder sections (6, 5a-j). A method (1500) comprising the above. **Claim 19** An asymmetric damping block (140) adapted to be disposed within a damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) for a folding ladder, the damping device (120; 220; 320; 420) comprising mounting means (122; 422). The asymmetric damping block (140) is adapted to be disposed within the mounting means (122; 422).

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