stepladder

Abstract

To provide a stepladder allowing a user to work in a stable posture and to safely go up / down.SOLUTION: A stepladder 1 includes: a first leg 10 having a plurality of first treads 13 fixed between first pillars 11 and 12; a second leg 20 having a plurality of second treads 23 fixed between second pillars 21 and 22; a top plate 30 to which one end of the first leg 10 is rotatably connected and one end of the second leg 20 is rotatably connected; a first pivot section 40 connecting the first leg 10 to the top plate 30 for rotation; a second pivot section 50 connecting the second leg 20 to the top plate 30 for rotation; and a gantry-shaped handrail 32 provided on a side edge of the top plate 30 and protruding upwardly from the surface of the top plate 30. In the grounded state of allowing the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 spread apart, the other end of the first leg 10 and the other end of the second leg 20 are supported on a ground surface.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a stepladder. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, as the population ages and the younger generation declines, elderly people are increasingly using stepladders to work at heights. Many elderly people have weakened legs and a poor sense of balance, leading to accidents in which they fall from stepladders (for example, approximately 8,000 to 10,000 people per year, as of 2020). Therefore, a fall prevention device that provides auxiliary support for stepladders has been proposed (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-80803 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] According to the fall prevention device of Patent Document 1, the stepladder can be stably supported by the support member even if the surface on which it is placed is inclined. However, even if the stepladder itself is stable, if the user's legs and hips are weak or their sense of balance is impaired, it may be difficult to work in a stable position on the stepladder or to safely ascend or descend it. For example, it is possible that the user may lose balance on the stepladder and fall on the side opposite to the side on which the fall prevention device is attached.

[0005] According to the stepladder of the present invention, the user can work in a stable posture and can ascend and descend safely. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present invention relates to a stepladder comprising: a first leg having a plurality of first treads fixed longitudinally and spaced apart between a pair of first support posts spaced apart in the width direction; a second leg having a plurality of second treads fixed longitudinally and spaced apart between a pair of second support posts spaced apart in the width direction; a top plate to which one end of the first leg is rotatably connected and to which one end of the second leg is rotatably connected; a first pivoting part rotatably connecting one end of the first leg to the top plate; a second pivoting part rotatably connecting one end of the second leg to the top plate; and a gate-shaped handrail part provided on a side edge of the top plate and protruding upward from the surface of the top plate; when the first leg and the second leg are spread apart in use, the other end of the first leg and the other end of the second leg are supported on the ground surface. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a stepladder that allows a user to work in a stable posture and to climb up and down safely. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a stepladder 1 according to a first embodiment in a leg-open state. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front view showing the stepladder 1 in a closed leg state. [Figure 3A] 3 is a diagram illustrating the uneven shape provided on the tread surface of the first tread 13. FIG. [Figure 3B] 3 is a diagram illustrating the uneven shape provided on the tread surface of the first tread 13. FIG. [Figure 4] 3 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the configuration of a first rotation portion 40. FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the treads when the height of the stepladder 1 is 1100 mm. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the treads when the height of the stepladder 1 is 1600 mm. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the treads when the height of the stepladder 1 is 2000 mm. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a form in which the stepladder 1 is moved by hand. [Figure 9] 10 is a diagram illustrating a second configuration of the handrail section 32. FIG. [Figure 10] 10(A) and 10(B) are diagrams illustrating a third configuration of the handrail section 32. FIG. [Figure 11] 10 is a diagram illustrating a fourth configuration of the handrail section 32. FIG. [Figure 12] 10 is a diagram illustrating a fourth configuration of the handrail section 32. FIG. [Figure 13A] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a table 35. [Figure 13B] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a table 35. [Figure 13C] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a table 35. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the treads when the height of the stepladder 1 is 500 mm. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the treads when the height of the stepladder 1 is 700 mm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a stepladder according to the present invention will be described. Note that all drawings attached to this specification are schematic diagrams, and the shape, scale, aspect ratio, etc. of each part have been modified or exaggerated from the actual product for ease of understanding. In this specification, etc., terms specifying shape, geometric conditions, and the degree of these, such as "parallel" and "direction," include the strict meaning of the term as well as the range that can be considered as being approximately parallel or roughly in that direction.

[0010] In this specification, when the stepladder 1 shown in Fig. 1 is in use, the left-right direction is referred to as the depth direction X (X1-X2), the up-down direction is referred to as the height direction Y (Y1-Y2), and the front-rear direction is referred to as the width direction Z (Z1-Z2). In this specification, the Z1 side of the stepladder 1 is also referred to as the "front side," and the opposite Z2 side is also referred to as the "rear side." In addition, in this specification, the "direction" is also referred to as the "side" as appropriate.

[0011] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a stepladder 1 according to the first embodiment in an open leg state, and Fig. 2 is a front view showing the stepladder 1 in a closed leg state. 1 and 2 show an example in which three first steps 13 and three second steps 23 are arranged on a stepladder 1 having a height of 1100 mm, which is assumed to be an example product, but in a stepladder 1 having a height of 1600 mm, which is also assumed to be an example product, four first steps 13 and four second steps 23 are arranged (see FIG. 6, which will be described later). Also, in a stepladder having a height of 2000 mm, which is also assumed to be an example product, five first steps 13 and five second steps 23 are arranged (see FIG. 7, which will be described later). The positional relationship between the first steps 13 and the second steps 23 on a stepladder having a height assumed to be an example product will be described later.

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1 , the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment includes a first leg 10, a second leg 20, and a top panel 30. The stepladder 1 also includes a first pivoting section 40, a second pivoting section 50, a stopper 60, a connecting section 70, etc. In the following description, the use state in which the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 are spread apart will be referred to as the "spread leg state," and the storage state in which the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 are closed will be referred to as the "closed leg state." The first step 13 and the second step 23 will also be collectively referred to as the "steps." Furthermore, the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 will also be collectively referred to as the "legs."

[0013] In the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment, when in use, the lower side (Y2 side) of the other end of the first leg 10 and the lower end of the other end of the second leg 20 are supported on the ground surface C (see FIG. 4). That is, in the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment, when in use, both legs are supported on the ground surface C, and it is not used in a form in which only one leg is supported on the ground surface C like a ladder.

[0014] The first leg 10 is a leg provided on the right side (X1 side) when viewing the stepladder 1 from the front side. The first leg 10 includes a pair of first support posts 11 and 12 and a plurality of (three in this example) first treads 13. The first support posts 11 and 12 are members arranged at intervals in the width direction (Z direction). The first support posts 11 and 12 are formed, for example, from aluminum square pipes. Rubber anti-slip caps 14 are attached to the lower (Y2 side) ends of the first support posts 11 and 12. As will be described later, the upper (Y1 side) end of the first leg 10, which is one end side, is rotatably connected to the top plate 30 by a first pivot part 40.

[0015] The first step 13 is a member on which the user places their feet when ascending or descending. The first step 13 is formed, for example, in a box-frame shape using an aluminum plate. Both ends of the first step 13 in the width direction (Z direction) are fixed to the first support posts 11 and 12 with rivets 15, respectively. Specifically, the Z1-side end of the first step 13 is fixed to the first support post 11, and the Z2-side end is fixed to the first support post 12. The first step 13 is fixed to the first support posts 11 and 12 so that the plate surface is horizontal in the leg-spread state shown in FIG. 1. Both ends of the first step 13 are fixed to the first support posts 11 and 12 with two rivets 15 each (see FIG. 1). Therefore, the angle of the plate surface of the first step 13 relative to the first support posts 11 and 12 does not change and always maintains the same angle whether the leg is spread (FIG. 1) or closed (FIG. 2). The spacing between the first step boards 13 in the height direction (Y direction) of the first leg 10 will be described later.

[0016] The first step 13 has a rectangular shape in a plan view when the plate surface is viewed from the normal direction (Y direction), and is configured so that the ratio of the width direction (Z direction) length W1 to the depth direction (X direction) length D1 is 1:1 to 1:1.3. For example, if the width direction length W1 of the first step 13 is 400 mm, the depth direction length D1 can be selected in the range of 400 mm to 520 mm. Note that the depth direction length D1 is preferably approximately 1.1 to 2 times the foot size. Assuming that the standard foot size of a person working on a stepladder is 240 mm to 270 mm and the depth direction length D1 is twice the foot size, the length D1 will be 480 mm to 540 mm. In this way, the width direction length W1 may be selected based on the depth direction length D1. The thickness T1 of the first step 13 can be selected in the range of approximately 15 mm to 20 mm, for example. The thickness T1 of the first step 13 may be the same for each step or may be different for each step. Note that the thickness T1 of the first step 13 is not limited to the above example.

[0017] Although not shown in Fig. 1, the upper (Y1 side) plate surface of the first tread 13, which forms the tread surface, has an uneven shape to prevent slipping. Figs. 3A and 3B are diagrams explaining the uneven shape provided on the tread surface of the first tread 13. Note that in Figs. 3A and 3B, the size and number of each shape portion relative to the length and width of the tread surface are not limited to the examples shown.

[0018] FIG. 3A shows an example in which a honeycomb-structured anti-slip device is provided on the tread surface of the first tread 13. The honeycomb-structured anti-slip device shown in FIG. 3A can be produced, for example, by cutting or etching the surface of a metal plate. When the honeycomb-structured anti-slip device is made of, for example, rubber or plastic, a honeycomb-structured anti-slip sheet may be glued onto the tread surface. When the honeycomb-structured anti-slip device is made of metal, a honeycomb-structured anti-slip plate may be fixed onto the tread surface by glueing or screws, or the honeycomb-structured anti-slip plate itself may serve as the first tread 13.

[0019] FIG. 3B shows an example in which a non-slip surface of the first tread 13 is provided with a plurality of L-shaped portions (unit shapes). The non-slip surface shown in FIG. 3B has a plurality of L-shaped portions arranged randomly. The L-shaped portions are configured so that they are convex toward the surface in cross-sectional view. In this example, if the non-slip surface is made of, for example, rubber or plastic, a non-slip sheet may be adhered to the tread surface. If the non-slip surface is made of a metal plate (for example, if a metal plate is press-molded to form a concave-convex shape), a non-slip plate with a concave-convex shape may be fixed to the tread surface by adhesion, screws, or the like, or the non-slip plate itself may be the first tread 13.

[0020] The uneven shape on the tread surface is not limited to the above example and may be any shape. For example, it may be a shape in which unit shapes such as circles, triangles, squares, and waves are arranged regularly or irregularly. The second tread 23 and the top plate 30, which will be described later, also have uneven shapes on their tread surfaces to prevent slipping. Alternatively, the tread surface may not have uneven shapes.

[0021] The second leg 20 is a leg provided on the left side (X2 side) of the stepladder 1, opposite the first leg 10. The second leg 20 includes a pair of second support columns 21 and 22 and a plurality of (three in this example) second treads 23. In the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment, the configuration of the second leg 20 differs from that of the first leg 10 in the positions at which the plurality of second treads 23 are arranged. Other configurations are substantially the same as those of the first leg 10. That is, the second support columns 21 and 22 of the second leg 20 correspond to the first support columns 11 and 12 of the first leg 10. Other components and parts that are the same as those of the first leg 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0022] The second step 23 has a rectangular shape in a plan view when the plate surface is viewed from the normal direction (Y direction), and the ratio of the widthwise (Z direction) length W2 to the depthwise (X direction) length D2 is the same as the ratio of the lengths W1 and D1 of the first step 13 (first leg 10). The thickness T2 of the second step 23, like the thickness T1 of the first step 13, can be selected from a range of approximately 15 mm to 30 mm. The thickness T2 of the second step 23 may be the same for each step or may be different. Note that the thickness T2 of the second step 23 is not limited to the above example. The second step 23 is fixed at a different position in the longitudinal direction (height direction Y) of the second leg 20 than the first step 13 of the first leg 10. In other words, the first step 13 of the first leg 10 and the second step 23 of the second leg 20 are fixed at different positions in the longitudinal direction of the legs. The positional relationship between the first step board 13 and the second step board 23 in the height direction (Y direction) will be described later.

[0023] The top board 30 is a member provided at the upper end (Y1 side) of the stepladder 1. In a typical stepladder, the length in the depth direction (X direction) is shorter than the length in the width direction (Z direction) of the top board, so the user's footing tends to become unstable whether the toes are facing the width direction or the depth direction, and it is not recommended to stand on the top board. This makes it difficult for users to work at heights. However, in the stepladder 1 of this embodiment, the ratio of the width direction length W3 to the depth direction length D3 is 1:0, as will be described later. . The top plate 30 is configured so that the ratio of the width direction (Z direction) to the depth direction (D3) is 1:7 to 1:1.5. This allows the user to stand on the top plate 30 in a stable position regardless of whether the toes are facing the width direction or the depth direction, making it possible to work at heights. The top plate 30 is configured, for example, as a single box frame made of aluminum plate material. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the top plate is divided so that it can be folded, the user can easily maintain balance and stabilize their feet. The top plate 30 is rectangular in plan view when viewed from the normal direction (Y direction) of the plate surface, and the ratio of the length W3 in the width direction (Z direction) to the length D3 in the depth direction (X direction) is 1:0. .The ratio is configured so that the ratio is 7 to 1:1.5. For example, if the width W3 of the first step 13 is 450 mm, the depth D3 can be selected in the range of 315 mm to 675 mm. The depth D3 of the tabletop 30 is desirably at least twice the foot width of an average adult male, so that the user can stably maintain an upright posture on the tabletop. The width W3 of the first step 13 can be selected in the range of approximately 300 mm to 450 mm, for example. The thickness T3 of the tabletop 30 can be selected in the range of approximately 10 mm to 30 mm, for example. The thickness T3 of the tabletop 30 is not limited to the above example.

[0024] The top plate 30 is provided with a first rotating section 40 and a second rotating section 50. The first rotating section 40 is provided on the right side (X1 side) when viewing the stepladder 1 from the front side. The second rotating section 50 is provided on the left side (X2 side) opposite the first rotating section 40. The first rotating section 40 is a mechanism that rotatably connects the upper end (Y1 side) of one end of the first leg 10 to the top plate 30. The second rotating section 50 is a mechanism that rotatably connects the upper end (Y1 side) of one end of the second leg 20 to the top plate 30.

[0025] The first pivoting unit 40 is configured as shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 shows a mechanism for connecting the tabletop 30 and the first support 11 of the first leg 10 in the first pivoting unit 40. As shown in FIG. 4, in the first leg 10, an end 11a on the upper side (Y1 side) of the first support 11 is pivotally connected to a side surface 30a (see FIG. 1) on the front side (Z1 side) of the tabletop 30 by a shaft 41. Meanwhile, an inclined portion 31 is provided on the inside of the tabletop 30, on the right side (X1 side) when viewed from the front side. The first support 12 of the first leg 10 is similarly configured on the rear side (Z2 side) of the tabletop 30. In the above configuration, when the first leg 10 is pivoted counterclockwise around the shaft 41, the upper side surface 11b of the first support 11 comes into contact with the inclined portion 31 of the tabletop 30, and the first leg 10 is placed in an open position. Furthermore, when the spread first leg 10 is rotated clockwise around the shaft 41, the upper side surface 11b of the first support column 11 and the inclined portion 31 of the tabletop 30 move away from each other, and the first leg 10 enters a closed state. Although not shown, the second pivoting portion 50 is configured similarly to the first pivoting portion 40. Note that the configurations of the first pivoting portion 40 and the second pivoting portion 50 are not limited to the example shown in FIG. 4, and any configuration may be applied as long as it functions equivalently.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 1, the tabletop 30 is provided with a handrail portion 32 on the side edge on the rear side (Z2 side). The handrail portion 32 is a gate-shaped (inverted concave) member that protrudes upward (toward the Y1 side) from the surface of the tabletop 30. The handrail portion 32 is a member that prevents a user from losing balance when ascending or descending the stepladder 1. FIGS. 1 and 2 show a first configuration of the handrail portion 32. The height H1 from the surface of the tabletop 30 to the center of the handrail portion 32 is, for example, approximately 300 mm to 700 mm. The height H1 of the handrail portion 32 is desirably set according to the height of the stepladder 1. For example, if the height of the stepladder 1 is 1100 mm, the height may be approximately 300 mm to 400 mm. Furthermore, if the height of the stepladder 1 is 2000 mm, the height may be approximately 600 mm to 700 mm.

[0027] A grip 33 is provided at approximately the center of the handrail portion 32 in the depth direction (X direction). The grip 33 is a part that a user holds onto with their hand when ascending or descending the stepladder 1. The grip 33 is made of, for example, rubber, sponge, plastic, or the like. By providing the grip 33 on the handrail portion 32, the user's hand is less likely to slip when grasping the grip 33. This allows the user to more securely grip the handrail portion 32.

[0028] Furthermore, two wheels 34 are provided on both sides of the grip 33 in the handrail section 32. The wheels 34 are rotating members used when moving the stepladder 1 in the closed leg state (storage state). As will be described later, when moving the stepladder 1 in the closed leg state (storage state), the user can easily move the stepladder 1 by pushing or pulling the stepladder 1 as if rolling the wheels 34.

[0029] The stopper fitting 60 is a member for fixing the opening angle between the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 when they are opened. The stopper fitting 60 is provided on the side surface on the front side (Z1 side) of the first leg 10 and the second leg 20. As shown in FIG. 1 , the stopper fitting 60 includes a hook 61, a shaft 62, and thumb screws 63 and 64. The hook 61 is a long, thin plate-like member with a hook-shaped tip 61a. The side of the hook 61 opposite the tip 61a is rotatably connected to the shaft 62 provided on the first support post 11. When the stopper fitting 60 is not in use, the tip 61a of the hook 61 engages with the thumb screw 63 provided on the first support post 11. The hook 61 can be fixed to the first support post 11 by tightening the thumb screw 63 engaged with the tip 61a of the hook 61. Furthermore, by loosening the thumbscrew 63 that is engaged with the tip 61a of the hook 61, the tip 61a of the hook 61 can be released from the thumbscrew 63. This allows the hook 61 to rotate around the shaft 62. Note that with the hook 61 released from the thumbscrew 63, the hook 61 can be rotated counterclockwise by pulling the hook 61 toward the front (Z1 side) and slightly bending it.

[0030] The thumbscrew 64 is a member that engages with the tip 61a of the hook 61. The thumbscrew 64 is located at approximately the same position in the horizontal direction as the shaft 62 provided on the first leg 10. As shown in FIG. 1 , when the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 are spread apart, the hook 61 (tip 61a) of the stopper fitting 60 is engaged with the thumbscrew 64 and the thumbscrew 64 is tightened to fix the angle at which the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 are spread apart. Furthermore, by loosening the thumbscrew 64 in this state, the tip 61a of the hook 61 can be released from the thumbscrew 64. This allows the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 to close together, bringing the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 closer to each other. The opening stop fitting 60 of this embodiment can prevent the user's fingers or the like from being pinched inside the fitting when the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 are closed. The opening stop fitting 60 is not limited to being provided on the front side (Z1 side) of the stepladder 1, but may also be provided on the side of the back side (Z2 side) of the stepladder 1, or on both the front side and the back side of the stepladder 1. The opening stop fitting 60 may also have other configurations.

[0031] The connecting part 70 is a mechanism that connects the lower side (Y2 side) of the first leg 10 and the second leg 20, which is the other end side of each leg, when the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 are in a closed, stored state. Furthermore, as will be described later, the connecting part 70 of this embodiment also serves as a grip (handle) that the user grasps with their hand when moving the stepladder 1. The user can move the stepladder 1 in a desired direction by grasping and pulling or pushing the connecting part 70 of the closed stepladder 1. The connecting part 70 includes a hook 71, a shaft 72, thumb screws 73 and 74, and a grip 75.

[0032] As shown in FIG. 1, the hook 71 is a plate-shaped member having a hook-shaped tip 71a. As shown in FIG. 2, the tip 71a is configured so that the hook-shaped portion opens to the Y2 side when the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 are closed and the hook 71 of the connecting part 70 is engaged with the shaft 72. The Y2 side corresponds to the direction of travel when the stepladder 1 is moved by hand. The side of the hook 71 opposite the tip 71a is rotatably connected to the underside (Y2 side) of the first support 11 by the shaft 72. When the connecting part 70 is not in use, the tip 71a of the hook 71 engages with a thumbscrew 73 provided on the first support 11. The hook 71 can be fixed to the first support 11 by tightening the thumbscrew 73 engaged with the tip 71a of the hook 71. Furthermore, by loosening the thumbscrew 73 that is engaged with the tip 71a of the hook 71, the tip 71a can be released from the thumbscrew 73. This allows the hook 71 to rotate around the shaft 72. Note that with the hook 71 released from the thumbscrew 73, the hook 71 can be rotated counterclockwise by pulling the hook 71 toward the front (Z1 side) and slightly bending it.

[0033] A grip 75 is provided on the hook 71. The grip 75 is a member used when moving the stepladder 1 in the closed leg state (storage state). The grip 75 is made of, for example, rubber, sponge, plastic, or the like. As will be described later, when moving the stepladder 1 in the closed leg state (storage state), the user connects the other ends of the closed first leg 10 and second leg 20 with the connecting part 70, and with the wheels 34 in contact with the ground surface, grasps the grip 75 with their hands and lifts it upward, thereby moving the stepladder 1 on the ground surface while rolling the wheels 34. In addition, since the grip 75 is provided on the connecting part 70, the user's hand gripping the grip 75 is less likely to slip. This allows the user to more securely grasp the connecting part 70.

[0034] The thumbscrew 74 is a member that engages with the tip 71a of the hook 71. The thumbscrew 74 is provided on the underside (Y2 side) of the second support 21 (second leg 20). As shown in FIG. 2, when the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 are closed, the hook 71 (tip 71a) of the connecting part 70 is engaged with the thumbscrew 74 and the thumbscrew 74 is tightened, thereby fixing the opening angle between the first leg 10 and the second leg 20. Note that the connecting part 70 is not limited to being provided on the front side (Z1 side) of the stepladder 1 as shown in FIG. 1, but may be provided on the back side (Z2 side) of the stepladder 1, or may be provided on both the front side and the back side of the stepladder 1.

[0035] Next, an example of the spacing between the steps provided on the stepladder 1 will be described with reference to Figures 5 to 7. Note that the spacing between the steps shown below is a value that is considered to be standard or preferable when the stepladder 1 is set to each height, and in practice it is adjusted appropriately within a range of about +100 to -100 mm (the same applies to modified stepladders described later).

[0036] (Stepladder 1 height: 1100mm) FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the steps when the height of the stepladder 1 is 1100 mm. Note that FIGS. 5 to 7 are conceptual diagrams for explaining the spacing between the steps of the stepladder 1, and some components unrelated to the spacing between the steps are simplified or omitted. For example, handrails, wheels, connecting parts, etc. are omitted from FIGS. 5 to 7. Also, in the following description, the step located at the top of the stepladder 1 is referred to as the first step, the step located below that as the second step, and so on, with the numerical value indicating the number of steps increasing from the top to the bottom. For example, if four steps are arranged, the step located at the bottom is referred to as the fourth step. Note that the top plate is not included in the number of steps.

[0037] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the steps when the height of the stepladder 1 is 1100 mm. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 5, the height H2 from the ground surface C to the surface of the top board 30 is 1100 mm. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 5, three first steps 13 of the first leg 10 and three second steps 23 of the second leg 20 are arranged. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 5, the first steps 13 of the first leg 10 and the second steps 23 of the second leg 20 are arranged so as to be staggered in the height direction (Y direction). Each second step 23 of the second leg 20 is located 10 to 50 mm lower in the height direction than each first step 13 of the first leg 10. The spacing S10 is the distance between the lower surface of a step provided on one support and the upper surface of a step provided on the other support and located lower than the first step at each position in the height direction. The spacing (S11+S12+S13, S21+S22+S23) between the tabletop 30 and the lowest step is the distance in the height direction between the top surface of the tabletop or step located above and the top surface of the step located below. The spacing (S14, S24) between the lowest step and the ground surface C is the distance between the top surface of the step and the ground surface C. The positional relationship between the first step 13 of the first leg 10 and the second step 23 of the second leg 20 may be reversed.

[0038] In the stepladder 1 shown in Fig. 5, the intervals S11 to S14 between the steps provided on the first leg 10 are set, for example, as follows. Here, an example will be described in which the thickness T1 of each first step 13 and the thickness T2 of each second step 23 are 20 mm, and the interval S10 is 10 mm in the stepladder 1 shown in Fig. 5 (the same applies to other embodiments and modified embodiments). Note that the thickness T3 of the top board 30 may be set to 10 to 30 mm as described above (the same applies to other embodiments and modified embodiments).

[0039] Spacing S11: 230mm Spacing S12:280mm Spacing S13:280mm Spacing S14: 310mm

[0040] In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 5, the intervals S21 to S24 between the treads provided on the second leg 20 are set, for example, as follows. Spacing S21: 260mm Spacing S22: 280mm Spacing S23: 280mm Spacing S24: 280mm

[0041] 5, the ratio of the length L1 that the step protrudes inward (toward X2) from the center ct of the position where the step is fixed to the support (first support / second support) to the length L2 that the step protrudes outward (toward X1) may be 1:1, or, for example, may be about 1:1.2 to 1:1.5. In this way, by making the length L2 that the step protrudes outward from the center of the support longer than the length L1 that the step protrudes inward, the feet of the user ascending or descending the stepladder 1 can be made more stable.

[0042] (Stepladder 1 height: 1600mm) FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the steps when the height of the stepladder 1 is 1600 mm. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 6, the height H3 from the ground surface C to the surface of the top board 30 is 1600 mm. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 6, four first steps 13 of the first leg 10 and four second steps 23 of the second leg 20 are arranged. As shown in FIG. 6, the first step 13 of the first leg 10 and the second step 23 of the second leg 20 are arranged so as to be staggered in the height direction (Y direction). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the second step 23 of the second leg 20 is located 10 to 50 mm lower in the height direction than the first step 13 of the first leg 10. The spacing S10 is a value when the stepladder 1 is in the open position (in use) as shown in FIG. The positional relationship between the first step 13 of the first leg 10 and the second step 23 of the second leg 20 may be reversed.

[0043] In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 6, the intervals S11 to S15 between the treads provided on the first leg 10 are set, for example, as follows. Spacing S11: 280mm Spacing S12:320mm Spacing S13:320mm Spacing S14:320mm Spacing S15:360mm

[0044] In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 6, the intervals S21 to S25 between the treads provided on the second leg 20 are set, for example, as follows. Spacing S21: 310mm Spacing S22: 320mm Spacing S23: 320mm Spacing S24: 320mm Spacing S25:330mm

[0045] (Stepladder 1 height: 2000mm) FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the steps when the height of the stepladder 1 is 2000 mm. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 7, the height H4 from the ground surface C to the surface of the top board 30 is 2000 mm. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 7, five first steps 13 of the first leg 10 and five second steps 23 of the second leg 20 are arranged. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 7, the first steps 13 of the first leg 10 and the second steps 23 of the second leg 20 are also arranged so as to be staggered in the height direction (Y direction). The second steps 23 of the second leg 20 are located 10 to 50 mm lower in the height direction than the first steps 13 of the first leg 10. The positional relationship between the first steps 13 of the first leg 10 and the second steps 23 of the second leg 20 may be reversed.

[0046] In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 7, the intervals S11 to S16 between the treads provided on the first leg 10 are set, for example, as follows. Spacing S11: 300mm Spacing S12:330mm Spacing S13:330mm Spacing S14:330mm Spacing S15:330mm Spacing S16:380mm

[0047] In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 7, the intervals S21 to S26 between the treads provided on the second leg 20 are set, for example, as follows. Spacing S21: 330mm Spacing S22:330mm Spacing S23:330mm Spacing S24:330mm Spacing S25:330mm Spacing S26:350mm

[0048] The above-mentioned numerical values ​​are examples when the height of the stepladder 1 is 1100 mm, 1600 mm, and 2000 mm, and in the stepladder of the present invention, the height of the stepladder 1 and the spacing between each tread are not limited to the above numerical values.

[0049] Next, moving the stepladder 1 by hand will be described. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of moving the stepladder 1 by hand. When moving the stepladder 1 by hand, as shown in FIG. 2, the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 are closed, and the hook 71 (tip 71a) of the connecting part 70 is engaged with the thumb screw 74 to connect the first leg 10 and the second leg 20. This prevents the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 from opening up during movement, making it difficult to carry. As shown in FIG. 8, the user can move the stepladder 1 by rolling the wheels 34 by grasping the grips 75 with their hands while the wheels 34 of the handrail part 32 are in contact with the ground C, lifting them upward, and pulling them in the direction of travel (to the right in this example).

[0050] As described above, the tip 71a of the hook 71 is configured so that the hook-shaped portion opens on the Y2 side (the direction of travel in FIG. 8) when the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 are closed and the hook 71 of the connecting part 70 is engaged with the shaft 72. This prevents the tip 71a of the hook 71 from coming off the thumb screw 74 when the stepladder 1 is moved by hand.

[0051] 8, the user may grasp the grip 75 with his / her hand, lift it upward, and push it in the direction of travel (e.g., leftward), thereby moving the stepladder 1 while rolling the wheels 34. If the connecting part 70 is provided on the back side of the stepladder 1 (the lower side in the figure), the user can grasp the grip 75 at a lower position. Therefore, this is particularly suitable for short users when moving the stepladder 1.

[0052] According to the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment configured as above, for example, the following effects are achieved. The stepladder 1 of the first embodiment includes a gate-shaped handrail portion 32 that protrudes upward (toward the Y1 side) from the surface of the top plate 30. According to this configuration, when a user climbs the stepladder 1, once the user reaches a position where the handrail portion 32 is within reach, the user can grasp the handrail portion 32 with their hands and climb up, thereby safely climbing to the top of the top plate 30 without losing their balance. Furthermore, by working while grasping the handrail portion 32, the user is less likely to lose their balance, allowing them to work safely. Furthermore, when descending from the top plate 30, the user can grasp the handrail portion 32 with their hands from the first step until they approach the ground, allowing them to safely descend to the ground without losing their balance. Even if the user loses their balance while ascending or descending, they can prevent themselves from falling from the stepladder by grasping the handrail portion 32. Therefore, with the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment, even if the user has weak legs or a poor sense of balance, the user can work in a stable posture and climb up and down safely.

[0053] In the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment, the first tread 13, the second tread 23, and the top plate 30 are rectangular in plan view when viewed from the normal direction (Y direction) of each plate surface, and the lengths in the width direction (Z direction) and depth direction (X direction) of the plate surfaces are set to have the ratios described above. This configuration ensures that a wider foothold is provided for a user when working on the top plate 30 and when ascending and descending compared to conventional stepladders. This makes it easier for a user to maintain balance on the foothold when working on the top plate 30 or ascending and descending the stepladder 1.

[0054] In the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment, the first step 13 of the first leg 10 and the second step 23 of the second leg 20 are arranged at different heights (Y direction). According to this configuration, when the two legs are closed, the step boards do not collide with each other, allowing the two legs to be closer to each other in the depth direction (opening / closing direction). Therefore, the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment is easy to store while ensuring the size of the step boards and the top plate. While conventional stepladders are known to have foldable step boards, the foldable step boards have a complex structure, which may cause breakage if the step boards are repeatedly opened and closed over a long period of time. Furthermore, when the step boards are foldable, there is a risk that the user's fingers or the like may be pinched in the folding mechanism when the legs are closed. In contrast, the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment has step boards fixed to each leg, making it less likely to break even when the step boards are repeatedly opened and closed over a long period of time, and the user's fingers or the like will not be pinched when the legs are closed.

[0055] In the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment, when the legs are spread apart (in use), the first step 13 and the second step 23 have a heightwise spacing S10 of 10 to 50 mm. This configuration prevents the steps from colliding with each other when the two legs are closed, and minimizes the difference in height between the first step 13 and the second step 23. This reduces the discomfort felt by the user when ascending and descending the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 of the stepladder 1 due to the difference in step height.

[0056] The stepladder 1 of the first embodiment includes a connecting part 70 that connects the other ends of the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 when the stepladder 1 is in a stored state with the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 closed. With this configuration, as shown in Fig. 8, when a user moves the stepladder 1 with the legs closed, the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 will not inadvertently open, allowing the user to move the stepladder 1 with the legs closed more safely.

[0057] (Second embodiment) Next, a stepladder 1 according to a second embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a second configuration of the handrail section 32. The handrail section 32 of the second embodiment differs from the handrail section 32 (first configuration) of the first embodiment in that it includes a movable table 35. In the second embodiment, the other configurations are the same as in the first embodiment (FIG. 1). Therefore, the entire stepladder is not shown in FIG. 9. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, components equivalent to those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 9 , the handrail section 32 (second configuration) of the second embodiment includes a table 35. The table 35 is attached to the handrail section 32 via a one-way clutch mechanism (not shown). In this example, the one-way clutch mechanism is configured to rotate freely in the direction of the arrow in the figure and to restrict rotation in the opposite direction. As shown by the imaginary line (two-dot chain line) in FIG. 9 , when the table 35 is rotated 90 degrees clockwise from a stored state in which it does not protrude from the handrail section 32, the table 35 moves to a usable state in which it protrudes parallel to the surface of the tabletop 30 (parallel to the XZ plane) with a gap between them. Due to the one-way clutch mechanism, the table 35 does not rotate counterclockwise (in the direction opposite to the arrow) from the position shown by the solid line. Therefore, a user can place luggage on the table 35 when the table 35 protrudes from the handrail section 32. Furthermore, by rotating the table 35 a further 270 degrees clockwise from the position indicated by the solid line, it can be moved again to a position where it does not protrude beyond the handrail section 32. Note that the mechanism for protruding the table 35 parallel to and spaced apart from the surface of the tabletop 30 is not limited to a one-way clutch mechanism, and other mechanisms may be applied, as will be described later.

[0059] 10(A) to 10(C) are diagrams illustrating a third configuration of the handrail section 32. As shown in FIG. 10(A), one end of the upper side (Y1 side) of the table 35 in this embodiment is rotatably supported by the shaft 36 of the handrail section 32. Although not shown, the grip 33 and the wheel 34 are coaxially attached to the shaft 36. The table 35 also has a table leg 80 on a plate surface 35a on the back side. The table leg 80 has a leg portion 81 and a rotating portion 82. The leg portion 81 is a rod-shaped member that supports the underside of the table 35 during use. The rotating portion 82 is a mechanism that supports the leg portion 81 so that it can be rotated and fixed. Hereinafter, a method of using the table 35 in this embodiment will be described.

[0060] When the table 35 is to be used, the table 35 is rotated counterclockwise around the shaft 36 from the storage position shown in FIG. 10(A). The angle by which the table 35 is rotated may be, for example, approximately 90 to 180 degrees. Next, as shown in FIG. 10(B), the leg 81 of the table leg 80 is rotated clockwise by 90 degrees around the shaft 83. By rotating the leg 81 by 90 degrees, the leg 81 is locked at the rotation part 82. Next, as shown in FIG. 10(C), the table 35 is rotated counterclockwise around the shaft 36, and the tip of the leg 81 is brought into contact with the surface of the tabletop 30. This places the table 35 in a use state, protruding parallel to the surface of the tabletop 30 with a gap therebetween. In the use state shown in FIG. 10(C), a user can place luggage on the surface 35b on the front side of the tabletop 35.

[0061] To change the table 35 from the use state shown in FIG. 10(C) to the storage state, the table 35 is rotated clockwise about the shaft 36, for example, to the position shown in FIG. 10(B). Next, the release button 84 of the rotation unit 82 is operated to release the locked state of the leg 81. By releasing the locked state of the leg 81, the leg 81 can be rotated counterclockwise, and the leg 81 can be aligned with the plate surface 35a on the back side of the table 35. Thereafter, the table 35 can be rotated clockwise about the shaft 36 to return the table 35 to the storage position shown in FIG. 10(A).

[0062] If the height H1 (see FIG. 1) of the handrail portion 32 is large, for example, if the height H1 is 500 mm or more, the shaft portion 36 supporting the table 35 does not have to be coaxial with the grip 33 and the wheel 34. In other words, the shaft portion 36 may be provided below (on the Y2 side of) the grip 33 and the wheel 34. The one-way clutch mechanism shown in FIG. 9 may also be configured in a similar manner.

[0063] 11 and 12 are diagrams illustrating a fourth configuration of the handrail section 32. FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the table 35 in use. FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the table 35 in a stored state. FIGS. 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating the configuration of the table 35. FIG. 13A is a plan view showing the front side of the table 35. FIG. 13B is a plan view showing the back side of the table 35. FIG. 13C is a side view of the table 35 as viewed from the right side (X1 side) of FIG. 13A.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the handrail section 32 of the fourth configuration includes a table 35, a stay 37, a support bar 38, and the like. 13A to 13C, table 35 includes main body 351 and support portion 352. In this embodiment, main body 351 and support portion 352 are integrally formed, but main body 351 and support portion 352 may be formed as separate parts and connected to each other. Also, the back surface of table 35 may be formed in an inverted concave shape with a reinforcing rib provided thereon.

[0065] The main body 351 can carry small items such as tools and parts, as well as luggage. As shown in FIG. 13A , the main body 351 has side walls 353 that protrude upward from the upper surface of the main body 351 at the outer periphery of the upper surface when in use. The side walls 353 are provided on the four sides that form the outer periphery of the main body 351. By providing the side walls 353 on the outer periphery of the main body 351, the main body 351 becomes tray-shaped. This prevents small items and luggage placed on the table 35 from falling due to vibration or the like being applied to the stepladder 1. The main body 351 of this embodiment is particularly suitable for carrying small, spherical items that tend to roll. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the side walls 353 are provided on the four sides that form the outer periphery of the main body 351, but the side walls 353 may be provided on at least a portion of the outer periphery of the main body 351. The tray-shaped form of table 35 may be applied to the table 35 of the second configuration (see Figure 9) or the third configuration (see Figure 10) described above, or a part of the support portion 352 may be made tray-shaped.

[0066] As shown in FIG. 13A, shafts 354 are provided on both sides in the left-right direction (X direction) near the end of the main body 351 opposite to the support portion 352. The shafts 354 are rotatably connected to one end of a stay 37 (described later). As shown in FIG. 13B, a first groove 355 is provided on the back surface of the main body 351. The first groove 355 is a groove that engages with a support bar 38 (described later) when the table 35 is in the stored state. The first groove 355 is provided linearly along the left-right direction (X direction) of the main body 351.

[0067] The support portion 352, together with the stay 37 and the support bar 38, supports the main body portion 351 in an in-use state, protruding parallel to and spaced from the surface of the tabletop 30 (see FIG. 11). As shown in FIG. 13B, a second groove portion 356 is provided on the back surface side of the support portion 352. The second groove portion 356 is a groove that engages with the support bar 38 (described below) when the table 35 is in an in-use state. The second groove portion 356 is provided linearly along the left-right direction (X direction) of the support portion 352.

[0068] Returning to FIG. 11, the stay 37 is a long, thin, plate-like member that supports the front side (Z1 side, the side opposite the support part 352) of the main body part 351. A pair of stays 37 are provided to support both ends of the main body part 351 in the left-right direction (Y direction). One end of the stay 37 is rotatably connected to the shaft part 354 of the main body part 351. The other end of the stay 37 is rotatably connected to the shaft part 322 provided on the handrail support post 321 of the handrail part 32. A pair of handrail support posts 321 are provided on the handrail part 32 in the left-right direction (Y direction).

[0069] The support bar 38 is a member that engages with the second groove 356 of the support portion 352 (table 35) when the table 35 is in the use state, and engages with the first groove 355 of the main body portion 351 (table 35) when the table 35 is in the stored state. The support bar 38 in this embodiment is composed of a long, thin, rod-shaped member. One end of the support bar 38 is rotatably connected via a shaft to a handrail support post 321 provided on the right side (X1 side) of the handrail portion 32. The other end of the support bar 38 is connected to the handrail support post 321 provided on the left side (X2 side) of the handrail portion 32.

[0070] When the table 35 is put into use in the handrail portion 32 of this embodiment configured as described above, the lower side (Y2 side) of the table 35 is pulled up (Y1 side) together with the left and right stays 37 from the stored state shown in FIG. 12. Next, the second groove portion 356 of the support portion 352 (table 35) is engaged with the support bar 38. As a result, as shown in FIG. 11, the table 35 is put into use, protruding parallel to the surface of the top plate 30 with a gap therebetween. In the use state shown in FIG. 11, a user can place small items such as tools and parts, or luggage, on the main body portion 351 of the table 35.

[0071] On the other hand, when the table 35 is to be stored, the support portion 352 of the table 35 is lifted upward (toward Y1) from the use state shown in FIG. 11 to disengage from the support bar 38. Next, the table 35 is rotated about the shaft portion 354 so that the top surface of the table 35 is approximately parallel to the height direction (Y direction). Furthermore, the table 35 and the stay 37 are rotated about the shaft portion 322 of the handrail portion 32 to engage the first groove portion 355 of the main body portion 351 with the support bar 38. This allows the table 35 to be returned to the stored state in which it is clear of the surface of the tabletop 30, as shown in FIG. 12.

[0072] When the table 35 is provided on the handrail portion 32, the following effects are achieved. In a typical stepladder, when a user ascends or descends with luggage, the user ascends or descends while holding the luggage. In this case, one of the user's hands is occupied, making the user more likely to lose balance and fall off the stepladder while holding the luggage. On the other hand, in the stepladder 1 of the second embodiment, when the user ascends or descends the stepladder 1 with luggage, the user can temporarily place the luggage on the table 35 provided on the handrail portion 32 until the user can secure footing on the step or until the user's feet touch the ground. This allows the user to keep both hands free and less likely to lose balance until the user can secure footing or until the user's feet touch the ground, thereby preventing the user from falling off the stepladder 1 with the luggage. Furthermore, as shown in a fourth embodiment (see FIG. 11 ), the table 35 is formed in a tray shape with side walls 353, which prevents small items or luggage placed on the table 35 from falling. In addition, the stepladder 1 of the second embodiment and other embodiments (described later) can obtain the same effects as the stepladder 1 of the first embodiment.

[0073] (Other embodiments) Fig. 14 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the treads when the height of the stepladder 1 is 500 mm. Figs. 14 and 15 (described later) are conceptual diagrams for explaining the spacing between the treads of the stepladder 1 in other embodiments, and some of the configuration unrelated to the spacing between the treads is simplified or omitted. For example, in Figs. 14 and 15, handrails, wheels, connecting parts, etc. are omitted.

[0074] In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 14, the height H2 from the ground surface C to the surface of the top board 30 is 500 mm. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 14, one first step 13 of the first leg 10 and one second step 23 of the second leg 20 are disposed. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 14, the first step 13 of the first leg 10 and the second step 23 of the second leg 20 are disposed so as to be staggered in the height direction (Y direction). Compared to the first step 13 of the first leg 10, the second step 23 of the second leg 20 is disposed at a position 10 to 50 mm lower in the height direction (10 mm in this embodiment). Note that the positional relationship between the first step 13 of the first leg 10 and the second step 23 of the second leg 20 may be reversed.

[0075] In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 14, the intervals S11, S12 between the treads provided on the first leg 10 are set, for example, as follows. Spacing S11: 220mm Spacing S12:280mm

[0076] In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 14, the intervals S21, S22 between the treads provided on the second leg 20 are set, for example, as follows. Spacing S21: 250mm Spacing S22: 250mm

[0077] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating the spacing between the stepboards when the height of the stepladder 1 is 700 mm. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 15, the height H2 from the ground surface C to the surface of the top board 30 is 700 mm. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 15, two first stepboards 13 of the first leg 10 and two second stepboards 23 of the second leg 20 are arranged. In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 15, the first stepboards 13 of the first leg 10 and the second stepboards 23 of the second leg 20 are arranged so as to be staggered in the height direction (Y direction). The second stepboards 23 of the second leg 20 are arranged at a spacing S10 10 to 50 mm lower (10 mm in this embodiment) than the first stepboards 13 of the first leg 10 in the height direction. Note that the positional relationship between the first stepboards 13 of the first leg 10 and the second stepboards 23 of the second leg 20 may be reversed.

[0078] In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 15, the intervals S11 to S13 between the treads provided on the first leg 10 are set, for example, as follows. Spacing S11: 200mm Spacing S12:230mm Spacing S13:270mm

[0079] In the stepladder 1 shown in FIG. 15, the intervals S21 to S23 between the treads provided on the second leg 20 are set, for example, as follows. Spacing S21: 230mm Spacing S22: 230mm Spacing S23: 240mm

[0080] Although the embodiments of the stepladder according to the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and variations are possible, such as the modified embodiments described below, and these are also included within the technical scope of the present invention. Furthermore, the effects described in the embodiments are merely a list of the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and are not limited to those described in the embodiments. Note that the above-described embodiments and the modified embodiments described below can be used in appropriate combinations, but detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0081] (Variations) In the embodiment, the widthwise (Z-direction) length W1 and the depthwise (X-direction) length D1 of the first step 13 may be the same or different regardless of the position where it is fixed to the first leg 10. Similarly, the widthwise (Z-direction) length W1 and the depthwise (X-direction) length D1 of the second step 23 may be the same or different regardless of the position where it is fixed to the second leg 20. For example, the depthwise length D1 of the step may increase as it descends from the first step. This configuration can further improve the stability when the user descends from the stepladder.

[0082] In the embodiment, the first leg portion 10 and the second leg portion 20 may have the same number of step boards or may have different numbers of step boards. In the first leg 10 and the second leg 20 of the embodiment, the positions at which the respective step boards are fixed in the longitudinal direction of the legs (positions in the height direction) may be the same. That is, the interval S10 (see FIG. 5) may be zero. The first step 13 and the second step 23 may have four corners (corners) of the rectangular plate surface rounded.

[0083] In the embodiment, an example has been described in which the connecting portion 70 also serves as a gripping portion, but this is not limiting. The connecting portion 70 may be configured to have no handle mechanism and only the function of connecting the other ends of the first leg portion 10 and the second leg portion 20 when the legs are closed. Furthermore, the other ends of the first leg portion 10 and / or the second leg portion 20 may be provided with gripping portions that do not have a connecting mechanism and only have a portion that the user grasps with their hand (for example, grip 75).

[0084] In the embodiment, an example in which a grip 33 is provided on the handrail portion 32 is described, but a configuration without a grip 33 may be used, or instead of providing a grip 33, an anti-slip coating may be applied to the entire handrail portion 32. In the second embodiment, an example in which two wheels 34 are provided on the handrail portion 32 has been described, but only one wheel 34 may be provided, or three or more wheels 34 may be provided. [Explanation of symbols]

[0085] 1: Stepladder 10:1st leg 11, 12: 1st pillar 13: 1st tread 20:Second leg 21, 22: 2nd pillar 23:Second tread 30: Top plate 32: Handrail section 33: Grip 34:Wheel 35: Table 40: First rotating part 50: Second rotating part 60: Opening stopper 70:Connection part 80:Table legs 81: Legs 82: Rotating part 353: Side wall

Claims

1. a first leg portion having a plurality of first treads fixed between a pair of first support posts spaced apart in the width direction and spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction; a second leg portion having a plurality of second treads fixed between a pair of second support posts spaced apart in the width direction and spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction; a top plate to which one end of the first leg portion is rotatably connected and to which one end of the second leg portion is rotatably connected; a first pivot portion that pivotally connects one end of the first leg portion to one edge of the top plate; a second pivot portion that pivotally connects one end of the second leg to the other end edge of the tabletop that faces the one end edge; a gate-shaped handrail portion provided on a side edge of the tabletop in a direction perpendicular to the one end edge and the other end edge, and protruding upward from the surface of the tabletop; Equipped with The handrail portion includes a table that protrudes from the handrail portion substantially parallel to the surface of the tabletop so as to cover the surface of the tabletop at a distance from the surface of the tabletop when in use, and is retracted to a position where it does not protrude from the handrail portion when stored, A stepladder in which, when the first leg and the second leg are spread apart, the other end of the first leg and the other end of the second leg are supported on the ground surface.

2. a first leg portion having a plurality of first treads fixed between a pair of first support posts spaced apart in the width direction and spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction; a second leg portion having a plurality of second treads fixed between a pair of second support posts spaced apart in the width direction and spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction; a top plate to which one end of the first leg portion is rotatably connected and to which one end of the second leg portion is rotatably connected; a first pivoting portion that pivotally connects one end of the first leg portion to the top plate; a second pivoting portion that pivotally connects one end of the second leg portion to the top plate; A gate-shaped handrail portion provided on a side edge of the tabletop and protruding upward from the surface of the tabletop; Equipped with The first step plates of the first leg portion and the second step plates of the second leg portion are located at different positions in a height direction, When the first leg and the second leg are in a spread-out position, the first step and the second step located at the same level in the height direction have a distance of 10 to 50 mm between the bottom surface of one step and the top surface of the other step located below the one step, A stepladder in which the other end of the first leg and the other end of the second leg are supported on a ground surface.

3. a first leg portion having a plurality of first treads fixed between a pair of first support posts spaced apart in the width direction and spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction; a second leg portion having a plurality of second treads fixed between a pair of second support posts spaced apart in the width direction and spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction; a top plate to which one end of the first leg portion is rotatably connected and to which one end of the second leg portion is rotatably connected; a first pivoting portion that pivotally connects one end of the first leg portion to the top plate; a second pivoting portion that pivotally connects one end of the second leg portion to the top plate; A gate-shaped handrail portion provided on a side edge of the tabletop and protruding upward from the surface of the tabletop; A wheel is provided on the handrail portion and is used when moving the stepladder in a state where the handrail portion is on the ground surface side in a storage state where the first leg portion and the second leg portion are closed; a grip portion provided on the other end side of the first leg portion and / or the second leg portion; Equipped with A stepladder in which, when the first leg and the second leg are spread apart, the other end of the first leg and the other end of the second leg are supported on the ground surface.

4. the top plate is rectangular in plan view when viewed from the normal direction of the plate surface, and the ratio of the width direction length to the depth direction length is 1:0.7 to 1:1.5; The first step of the first leg and the second step of the second leg are rectangular in plan view when viewed from a normal direction of the plate surface, and the ratio of the width direction length to the depth direction length is 1:1 to 1:1.3, Both ends of the first tread in the width direction are fixed to the pair of first support posts, The stepladder according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein both widthwise ends of the second tread are fixed to a pair of the second supports.

5. A wheel is provided on the handrail portion and is used when moving the stepladder in a usage form in which the handrail portion is on the ground surface side in a storage state in which the first leg portion and the second leg portion are closed; a grip portion provided on the other end side of the first leg portion and / or the second leg portion; The stepladder according to claim 1 or 2, comprising:

6. The gripping portion is The stepladder according to claim 3, wherein the other ends of the first leg and the second leg can be connected to each other when the first leg and the second leg are in a closed, stored state.

7. The stepladder according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the handrail portion includes a table that protrudes substantially parallel to the surface of the top plate at a distance from the surface of the top plate when in use and moves away from the surface of the top plate when stored.

8. The stepladder according to claim 7, wherein the table has a side wall on at least a part of the outer periphery of the top surface when in use.

Images