Ladder platform and closure mechanism

Abstract

A ladder platform including a closure mechanism coupled to the ladder is provided. The closure mechanism includes a tray or platform coupled to one section of the ladder and one or more spreader bars coupled to a portion of the tray or platform and to a second section of the ladder. In some embodiments, the closure mechanism further includes a spring or compliant member coupled to and / or configured to bias a portion of the tray or platform. The closure mechanism may allow for the locking and unlocking of the sections of the ladder relative to one another, and the opening and closing of the ladder without the platform contacting a rail of the ladder. The closure mechanism also may aid in opening or closing the ladder in an easy manner for a user. The ladder may also include a nesting linkage to aid in opening or closing the ladder.

Description

Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145 LADDER PLATFORM AND CLOSURE MECHANISM CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 610,685, filed December 15, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to ladders and, more specifically, to ladder platforms and spreaders. BACKGROUND

[0003] Climbing apparatus, such as ladders and work platforms, typically include cross members or linkages, such as spreader bars, between a front section and a rear section which assist with keeping the sections in position relative to one another. The cross members typically are placed on each side of the ladder and once opened fully aid in locking the sections open. Indeed, in some instances the cross members need to be pushed downward to secure the sections relative to one another.

[0004] Previously, to close the ladder, a user typically applied a force to the cross members either in an upward direction to unlock the cross members or a downward direction to lock the cross member relative to one another. Damage to the cross members can impact functionality of the ladder. For example, a force applied to the members that is too great and / or at an angle somewhat orthogonal to the direction of operation may complicate the closing and future use of the cross members. Further, users often must carefully operate the cross bars to avoid a pinch point created therebetween, which can pinch a user when unlocked.Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Disclosed herein are embodiments of assemblies and apparatuses pertaining to providing a platform, handle, and closure mechanism. This description includes drawings, wherein:

[0006] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in a closed position in accordance with various embodiments;

[0007] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in a closed position in accordance with various embodiments;

[0008] FIG. 3 is a top side perspective view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in an opened position in accordance with various embodiments;

[0009] FIG. 4 is a top rear perspective view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in an opened position in accordance with various embodiments;

[0010] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in accordance with various embodiments;

[0011] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in a closed position in accordance with various embodiments;

[0012] FIG. 7 is a side perspective view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in a closed position in accordance with various embodiments;

[0013] FIG. 8 is a top side perspective view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in an opened position in accordance with various embodiments;

[0014] FIG. 9 is a top rear perspective view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in an opened position in accordance with various embodiments;

[0015] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in accordance with various embodiments;

[0016] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in an intermediate position in accordance with various embodiments;

[0017] FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in an intermediate position in accordance with various embodiments; and

[0018] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of a portion of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder in an intermediate position in accordance with various embodiments.Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145

[0019] FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of a platform and a portion of a closure mechanism coupled to a portion of a ladder moving to a closed position in accordance with various embodiments.

[0020] FIG.15 is a side perspective view of a portion of FIG.14.

[0021] FIG.16 is a front perspective view of a portion of FIG.14.

[0022] FIG.17 is a rear side perspective view of a portion of FIG. 14.

[0023] FIG.18 is a front perspective view of a portion of FIG.14.

[0024] FIG.19 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of FIG.14.

[0025] FIG. 20 is a top view of another platform and closure mechanism coupled to a ladder in an open position in accordance with various embodiments.

[0026] FIG.21 is a rear perspective view of a portion of FIG. 20.

[0027] FIG.22 is a partial rear perspective view of a portion of FIG.20.

[0028] FIG.23 is a rear perspective view of a portion of FIG. 20.

[0029] FIG.24 is a rear perspective view of a portion of FIG. 20.

[0030] FIG. 25 is a side view of another platform with a closure mechanism coupled to a ladder shown in a closed position as compared to an opened position in accordance with various embodiments.

[0031] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a portion of the closure mechanism linkage of FIG. 25.

[0032] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a portion of the closure mechanism linkage of FIG. 25.

[0033] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of FIG. 20 with a central planar portion removed therefrom.

[0034] FIG.29 is a detailed perspective view of a portion of FIG. 20.

[0035] FIG.30 is an up close detailed view of the underside of FIG.18.

[0036] FIG. 31 is a perspective view of a ladder including the platform and the closure mechanism of FIG. 14.

[0037] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a ladder including the platform and the closure mechanism of FIG. 20.

[0038] Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensionsAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 and / or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments. It will further be appreciated that certain actions and / or steps may be described or depicted in a particular order of occurrence while those skilled in the art will understand that such specificity with respect to sequence is not actually required. It will also be understood that the terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary technical meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions by persons skilled in the technical field as set forth above except where different specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The present disclosure relates to ladders and ladder platform mechanisms including, for example, a closure mechanism. The ladder platform and closure mechanisms described herein, are typically used to aid in the opening, locking, and use of the ladders. For example, by providing a spring-loaded handle, the ladder can be locked in place more securely and by providing an accompanying tray and platform the usability of the ladder can be increased. In addition, the expanded, usable surfaces of the platform described herein also may provide additional rigidity and stability to certain ladders.

[0040] By some approaches, the ladder closure mechanism described herein may be disposed on the ladder at the location of a typical spreader bar, connecting a front section of the ladder to a rear section of the ladder. The spring-loaded handle described herein avoids the risk of a pinch point as created by typically-used spreader bars. Further, the ladder platform and closure mechanisms may be used to aid in carrying the ladder.

[0041] In one configuration, the ladder closure mechanism includes a tray with a first or front end coupled to the front section via a hinge or pivot point, and a second or rear end coupled to the rear section via a spreader bar, a catch, and / or other releasable mechanical mechanism. The hinge is coupled to one of a plurality of front section rungs and at least one of the spreader bar and catch are coupled to one of plurality of rear section rungs. In use, the tray includes aAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 platform area configured to extend the front section rung’s usable depth, i.e., a user can stand on the platform section of the tray. The tray includes an opening substantially in the middle of the tray to provide a handle for carrying the ladder when in the closed position. In one exemplary configuration, the tray also includes the spring-loaded handle, actuatable within the opening, to lock the ladder in an extended state. The spring-loaded handle is typically disposed on a sliding member coupled to the tray. The sliding members includes a lip at the end of the handle and by actuating the handle, the lip moves. In the locked state, the lip contacts the catch disposed on one of the plurality of rear section rungs. The lip and catch mechanically engage one another to lock the ladder in the open or extended state. In addition, mechanical arrangement or corresponding geometry also may lock or secure the ladder into a closed or retracted state as well.

[0042] In some configurations, the tray includes ribs disposed on the side of a bottom of the tray. The ribs are configured to contact sides of the catch to limit the side-to-side motion or movement of the tray. Further, in some configurations, the tray includes a recessed or indented portion configures to hold various tools, fasteners, and equipment. The tray may also include tool slots to be used with other ladder accessories and add-ons.

[0043] By yet further approaches, the tray may be tapered to match a taper of the front and rear sections of the ladder. For example, the tray may have a first width and a second width. In some illustrative configurations, the tray has a first section with a first width and then a second section with a gradually reduced width. In this way, the tray, near the hinge may include a width that is wider than the width of the tray near the catch. In this way, the size of the tray may be increased while being sized to fit between the rails of the ladder when the ladder is closed and collapsed.

[0044] In some approaches, a tapered platform is provided between the rails of the ladder. The taper of the platform results in spreader bars which are disposed at an angle relative to the rails and are non-perpendicular to the rungs when in an opened position. When the ladder is opened, the first rail of a front section and the first rail of the rear section are substantially in line with one another. Typical ladders include spreader bars that are substantially parallel to the first rail of a front section and the first rail of the rear section and are generally perpendicular to the rungs disposed between the rails. By providing a tapered platform for an increased standing surface, the spreader bars are disposed at an angle relative to the first rail of a front section andAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 the first rail of the rear section when opened. Compliant members, such as springs, brackets, and housings may be used to aid the opening and closing of the tapered platform and non-parallel spreader bars.

[0045] In some configurations, the ladder includes a platform with a central planar portion formed of metal, which may include textured ribbing thereon. By some approaches, the platform includes a flanges or sidewalls extending orthogonally to the central planar portion. As discussed below, the spreader bars may be secure to the flanges or sidewalls of the platform at one end thereof. In addition, the platform may include a front end cap and / or a rear end cap, which may be formed of a polymer material, a fiberglass material, or metal, among other options.

[0046] In one approach, a ladder including a front section and a rear section, the front section and the rear section each including a first rail, a second rail, and a plurality of rungs spaced between the respective first rail and second rail of each the front section and the rear section is provided. A ladder top is directly coupled to at least one of the front section or rear section. A platform is disposed below the ladder top and is attached to the first rail and the second rail of the front section via a bracket coupled to both the first rail and the second rail via a plurality of rivets and is attached to one of the plurality of rungs of the rear section via one or more spreader bars. A compliant member is disposed within the bracket and along a bolt, the compliant member is configured to bias a portion of the bolt and the platform. The compliant member provides a biasing force to prohibit lateral movement of the platform when the ladder is opened or closed.

[0047] In a further approach, a ladder including a front section and a rear section, the front section and the rear section each including a first rail, a second rail, and a plurality of rungs spaced between the respective first rail and second rail of each the front section and the rear section is provided. A ladder top is directly coupled to at least one of the front section or the rear section. A platform is disposed below the ladder top and is attached to the first rail and the second rail of the front section via a bracket coupled to both the first rail and the second rail via a plurality of rivets and is attached to one of the plurality of rungs of the rear section via one or more spreader bars and one or more L-brackets. The ladder includes at least one bolt securing the one or more L-brackets and spreader bar relative to one another. At least one spring is disposed between a portion of the at least one bolt and the one or more L-brackets and configured to biasAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 the spreader bar. The spring provides a biasing force to permit lateral movement of the platform when the ladder is opened or closed.

[0048] In yet further configurations, a ladder including a front section and a rear section, the front section and the rear section each including a first rail, a second rail, and a plurality of rungs spaced between the respective first rail and second rail of each the front section and the rear section is provided. A ladder top is directly coupled to at least one of the front section or the rear section. A platform is disposed below the ladder top and is attached to the first rail and the second rail of the front section via a bracket coupled to both the first rail and the second rail and attached to one of the plurality of rungs of the rear section via one or more spreader bars. The one or more spreader bars include a nesting linkage comprising an outer member and an inner member configured to at least partially extend into the outer member. The one or more spreader bars include a spring coupled to the outer member and the inner member. The spring is configured to provide a biasing force to nesting linkage.

[0049] The ladders, components, and / or accessories described herein may be formed of a variety of materials and using a variety of manufacturing techniques. Such materials may include, e.g., metals, plastics and other polymers, and / or composite materials. In addition, some portions of the ladder’s components may be formed of one material and one or more other components or accessories may be formed of another similar, or entirely distinct material. In some configurations, the rails of the ladders may be formed of composite material such as fiberglass or fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) and may be manufactured via a pultrusion process. FRP materials may include various plastic resins, such as polyurethane or polyethylene, or may include various glass materials. It is contemplated that adjusting the FRP formula to use different material combinations may reduce material weight and / or cost. The rails may also be formed of a metal material such as aluminum or aluminum alloys and manufactured via an extrusion process. After extrusion or pultrusion, the ladder rails are typically cut to length. For box-shaped rails, a computerized numerical control (CNC) machine may machine or form one or more holes in the rails. For rails of other shapes, such as C-shaped or I-beam shaped rails, other tools such as a punch press may be leveraged to punch one or more holes into the rails.

[0050] The rungs of the ladders may be formed of composite materials such as fiberglass or carbon fiber. In some approaches, the rungs may also be formed of metal materials such asAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 magnesium, magnesium alloys, aluminum, or aluminum alloys. The rungs may be manufactured, for example, via an extrusion process and cut to length. The rungs may take a variety of shapes and may be, for example, rounded, D-shaped, or triangular. Further, the rungs may have a hollow or substantially hollow cross-section.

[0051] The rungs of a ladder may be attached to the rails in a variety of different manners. In one approach, the rungs and rails are forged together, such as by having the rungs being attached to the rails via a direct swage connection. In a direct swage connection, a rung is attached directly to the rails using a cold forming process, where a moving die shapes the rung around a hole that was pre-punched in the rail. Annealing operations may be used to soften the metal to prevent cracking. In other approaches, the rungs are attached to the rails via a rung-plate connection in addition to other attachment types. In a rung-plate connection, a rung is attached to a plate and the plate is attached to the rail via one or more rivets or other mechanical elements.

[0052] Other portions, accessories, and / or assemblies employed in the ladder, such as feet, locks, ropes, rope pullies, end caps, and / or knee braces may be made of materials such as rubber or plastics like polypropylene or any other suitable plastics. Plastic parts may be injection molded or insert molded. In some approaches, accessories and assemblies such as guide brackets, feet, knee braces, and / or locks, may be formed, extruded or stamped, from metal materials such as aluminum, aluminum alloys, steel, or sheet metal. Rubber feet may be riveted to a base of the ladder. Metal locks may be extruded and then cut to length. Rope pulleys may include extruded metal side portions and plastic round pulleys formed of injection molded plastic, with the side portions and pulley held together by a rivet. End caps may be riveted or snap fit to the ladder during assembly. Similarly, knee caps may be riveted to the ladder.

[0053] Generally speaking, pursuant to these various embodiments and systems described herein which may be used to provide a platform mechanism including a closure mechanism for a ladder which may be used as a platform and tray for increased stability and usability while potentially removing a potential pinch point for a user. In one illustrative approach, the closure mechanism includes a tray coupled to a front section of the ladder via a hinge and coupled to a spreader bar disposed on the rear section. The spreader bay may additionally or alternatively be coupled to a catch disposed on the rear section. The tray includes a sliding member disposed on the underside of the tray. The tray and the sliding member include an opening and a handleAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 disposed in the opening. The handle includes a lip on at least one end of the sliding member configured to interact with the catch to lock and unlock the tray from the catch.

[0054] In some embodiments the tray includes one or more ribs disposed on the underside and configured to contact the catch to aid in increasing stiffness of the tray and ladder by inhibiting side to side motion or movement of the tray and rails. In some configurations, the ribs also assist with strengthening the platform. The handle may include a torsion spring such that the handle can be actuated to lock the lip on the catch and return to the locked state once the handle is released.

[0055] In further embodiments, the tray may include tool slots or accessory slots near the catch such that other accessories can be slid into the tool slots to increase the storage and / or the usability of the ladder. Further, the tray may include an indentation, tool openings, channels, and various sides openings to hold various fasteners, tools, or pieces of equipment. The tray may also be magnetized to aid in holding metal pieces onto the tray. The tray may also include a platform area near the hinge which may be used by a user to stand on and increase the depth of the rung. In some approaches, the tray may be removable. In this way, the tray may be a faceplate such that the tray, or faceplate, can be changed depending on the use needed by the user. The tray may be configured to provide a shelf area on the ladder.

[0056] Referring to the drawings wherein like reference numerals refer to similar or identical parts throughout the several views, and in particular FIG. 1 illustrates a ladder 100 including a ladder top 102, a front section 104, a rear section 114, and a platform mechanism, including a closure mechanism 111. The front section 104 includes a first rail 106, a second rail 108, and a plurality of rungs 110. Similarly, the rear section 114 includes a first rail 116, a second rail 118, and a plurality of rungs 120.

[0057] The ladder 100, and more specifically the closure mechanism 111, includes a tray 112 coupled to one of the plurality of rungs 110. The tray 112 is disposed between the rails of the ladder 100. As shown in FIG. 1, the ladder 100 is in the collapsed or closed position. In this position, the tray 112 folds inside the rails. In this way, the tray 112 is tapered to include at least a portion of the tray 112 that is substantially parallel to the non-parallel rails. This allows the tray 112 to include a larger area for use.Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145

[0058] Referring to FIG. 2, the tray 112 of the closure mechanism 111 includes a sliding member 152 disposed on a bottom surface of the tray 112. The sliding member 152 includes a handle 130. The handle 130 is spring-loaded and actuatable towards the rung 110 the tray 112 is coupled to. The closure mechanism 111 includes an opening 140 in the sliding member 152, and the handle 130 is disposed within the opening 140. Additionally, the opening 140 extends through the tray 112, which allows a user to place their hand within and actuate the handle 130. In this way, the opening 140 also provides a location to pick the ladder 100 up and carry the ladder 100. Due to the rounded shape of the opening 140 this provides a more comfortable location for a user to hold while carrying the ladder 100.

[0059] The sliding member 152 includes a lip 138 disposed on each end of the sliding member 152. The tray 112 includes alignment geometry 136, or ribs, disposed on the underside of the tray 112 towards the top of the tray 112, as can be seen in FIG. 2. The tray 112 also includes a spreader bar 134 which couples the tray 112 to at least one of the one of the plurality of rungs 120 or the catch 132. In this configuration, the spreader bar 134 is disposed within a side of the tray 112. In this way, the spreader bar 134 is covered and removes a potential pinch point on the ladder 100.

[0060] The closure mechanism 111 also includes a catch 132. The catch 132 is disposed on one of the plurality of rungs 120. The catch 132 is shaped to receive the alignment geometry 136 and aid in maintaining a side to side stiffness of the tray 112 and the ladder 100 when in an extended or open position. The lip 138 of the sliding member 152 interacts with the catch 132 to hold the tray 112 either in the opened position or the closed position. In some configurations, the spreader bar 134 is coupled to the catch 132 which is coupled to one of the plurality of rungs 120.

[0061] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the closure mechanism 111 includes a hinge 146 which couples the tray 112 to one of the plurality of rungs 110. The closure mechanism 111 further includes a platform 142 and an indention area 144. The platform 142 provides an additional depth to the rung 110 the tray is coupled to. The platform 142 may be, for example, between two to four inches in depth for a user to stand on. In this way, the stability of a user standing on the ladder 100 may be increased. The platform 142 may be textured to increase the surface area of the platform 142 and aid in avoiding slipping on the platform 142.Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145

[0062] The closure mechanism 111, and more specifically the tray 112, also may include the indention area 144. The indention area 144 may provide a location for a user to dispose various parts, fasteners, tools, and equipment on. In some embodiments, not shown, the tray 112 may include tool slots on the end of the tray 112 to allow for a sliding engagement with tool slot accessories. In yet further embodiments, not shown, the tray 112 may include a magnetized area, openings for tools to be disposed within, channels to hold various pipes, conduit, or tools, or may include a power tool opening to disposed various power tools within.

[0063] Referring to FIG. 5, a cross-section of the tray 112 is shown. The sliding member 152 includes a lip 138 on each end. The lip 138 interacts with an overhang 156 of the catch 132. FIG. 5 includes the ladder 100 in a closed position. In this way, the bottom lip 138 interacts with the overhang 156 and holds the ladder 100 closed. In the open position, the top lip 138 would interact with the overhang 156 to hold the ladder 100 open. Because the handle 130 is spring- loaded, once the ladder 100 is in either the opened or closed position, the position is held in place. When the opening 140 is used as a handle for carrying, because the bottom lip 138 interacts with the overhang 156 and the handle 130 is spring-loaded holding the ladder 100 closed, the closure mechanism not only aids in the ease of carrying the ladder 100, the closure mechanism holds the ladder 100 closed while carrying the ladder 100.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 12, the ladder 100 is shown including the various elements described above, including the closure mechanism 111. In this configuration, a tray 113 is shown including a substantially rectangular shape. The tray 113 includes many similar elements to the tray 112. Further, the tray 113 includes the alignment geometry 136 disposed on the sides of the bottom side of the tray 113 as opposed to the top middle of the tray. Additionally, the sliding member 152 includes one side having one lip 138 configured to hold the ladder 100 in the opened position.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 13, the ladder 100, and in particular, the rear section 114 is shown including the closure mechanism 111. In the present embodiment, a tray 115 is shown including alignment geometry. The alignment geometry includes protrusions 137 disposed on an underside of the corner of the tray 115. The alignment geometry further includes openings 139 disposed within one of the plurality of rungs 120 on a top surface thereof. In this way, the protrusions 137 may fit into the openings 139 to algin the tray 115 properly. The alignment geometry alsoAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 increases a rigidity of the tray 115, and in turn the ladder 100 as a whole. By providing the protrusions 137 and openings 139 the closure mechanism 111 may be more securely locked.

[0066] In use, a user can carry the ladder by the opening in the closure mechanism. Once the ladder is placed at the desired location, a user can actuate the handle disposed within the opening. To actuate the handle, the handle is pulled towards the front section of the ladder. If the ladder is standing vertically and the closure mechanism is locked, the handle is pulled substantially in a downward direction. When pulled, the lip of the sliding member disengages the overhand of the catch, permitting the front section and the rear section to move relative to one another.

[0067] Once the ladder is in the extended position, the handle can be actuated again, permitting the other lip of the sliding member to interact with the overhang of the catch. In some configurations, the tray may be pushed downward to move the lip into engagement with the overhang, as opposed to actuating the handle. In this way, the ladder is now in the extended position and can be used. In the extended position, the closure mechanism provides additional footing through the platform area and additional storage via the indention area.

[0068] In some embodiments of the embodiments described herein, the ladder closure mechanisms utilize spreader bars as linkages, along with portions of the associated platform and along with associated brackets, springs, and mechanical connectors, such as pins, bolts, and rivets. For example, a portion of the platform, such as the flanges or sidewalls thereof may be connected to the first rail of the front section and spreader bars may be connected to a portion of the rear section (such as, e.g., one of the rungs or strengthening members). In one illustrative configuration, the flanges and the spreader bars are connected via a pivot point such as a rivet or pin.

[0069] In addition, the mechanisms described herein may include varying biasing forces provided via springs and the like, to aid in the consistent usage of the ladders. This may include, for example, lateral movement limiters of a platform to prevent the platform from contacting the rails, a lateral movement mechanism to permit lateral movement of the spreader bars and aid in opening or closing the ladder, or a nested linkage to aid in opening or closing of the ladder. In the embodiments described herein, the spreader bars may include an over-center design. When opened, the force created due to the over center design is larger than any biasing forces describedAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 herein. In this way, the biasing forces may be used as an aid in the operation and usage of the ladder without compromising the safety of the ladder. For example, a biasing force that aids in closing the ladder will be less than the force created by the over center design of the spreader bars. The biasing forces described herein may be a fraction of the force generated by the over center design, such as approximately 20% or less.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 19 and 31, a portion of a ladder 200 is shown and it includes a ladder top 202, a front section 204, and a rear section 214. The front section 204 includes the first front rail 206 and the second front rail 208. The rear section 214 includes the first front rail 216 and the second rear rail 218. A plurality of rungs 210 extends between the first front rail 206 and the second front rail 208. Similarly, a plurality of rungs or strengthening members 220 extend between the first rear rail 216 and the second rear rail 218. The ladder 200 further includes a platform 222 configured for a user to stand on.

[0071] In some configurations, the platform 222 includes a central planar portion 224 formed of metal, which may include textured ribbing thereon. By one approach, the platform 222 further includes a pair of depending flanges 222a, 222b disposed orthogonal to the central planar portion 224. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the depending flanges 222a, 222b, which are typically formed of metal, are the portion of the platform 222 to which the spreader bars 262 are fastened on one end (such as via rivets or screws). In addition, the platform 222 may include a front end cap 226 and / or a rear end cap 228. In some illustrative configurations, the front end cap 226 and the rear end cap 228 may be formed of a polymer material, a fiberglass material, or metal, among other options.

[0072] As suggested above, the flanges 222a, 222b may be connected to the first front rail 206 and the second front rail 208 of the front section 204, respectively, and spreader bars 262 may be connected to a portion of the rear section 214 (such as, e.g., one of the rungs or strengthening members 220). More specifically, the flanges 222a and 222b of the platform 222 are coupled to the first front rail 206 and the second front rail 208 via one or more pins 268 that run through respective openings in the flanges 222a and 222b and openings in brackets 260a, 260b. The brackets 260a, 260b, as discussed in more detail below, are coupled to the first front rail 206 and the second front rail 208. FIG. 17 illustrates the pivotable connection 270 formed between one end of the spreader bar 262 and the flange 222a via one or more rivets 269. FIG. 17Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145 also shows another end of the spreader bar 262 being connected to an L-bracket 271 via another rivet 269 that extends through an opening at an end of the spreader bar 262 and an opening of the L-bracket 271.

[0073] In one illustrative configuration, the platform 222 is coupled to the first front rail 206 and the second front rail 208 of the front section 204 via a bracket 260, or housing. As shown in FIG. 19, the rear cap 228 has opening therein to secure the rear cap 228 to the central planar portion 224.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 16, when in use, the platform 222 is disposed below the ladder top 202 and above an uppermost rung of the plurality of rungs 210. The platform 222 is coupled to spreader bars 262 disposed on each side of the platform 222. The spreader bars 262 are disposed within a perimeter of the platform 222 such that, in the opened position, the spreader bars 262 are disposed underneath the platform 222. The spreader bars 262 are also coupled to one of the plurality of rungs or strengthening members 220. In use, the spreader bars 262 act as a linkage to coupling the platform 222 to the uppermost rung of the plurality of rungs or strengthening members 220.

[0075] In the embodiment of FIG. 14, the platform 222 is tapered from a wide base adjacent the front section 204 (i.e., adjacent the first front rail 206 and the second front rail 208) to a narrower end adjacent the first rear rail 216 and second rear rail 218 when in the open position. Due to the taper of the platform 222, the spreader bars 262 are disposed at an angle relative to the rails when opened in this configuration. This results in a lateral displacement of the spreader bars 262 when the ladder 200 is opened and closed. To prohibit lateral movement of the platform 222 due to the movement of the spreader bars 262, a lateral movement limiter 264 may be used.

[0076] The lateral movement limiter 264 illustrated in FIG. 19 includes a bracket 260 which is coupled to the rails via rivets 273 on one side and connected to the platform 222 via one or more pins or bolts 268 on the other side. The one or more pins or bolts 268 include one end disposed between the bracket 260 and the corresponding rail, and a second end disposed through an opening of the platform 222. The lateral movement limiter 264 also includes a compliant member 266 disposed on a portion, such as a shaft, of the one or more pins or bolts 268. The compliant member 266 is configured to bias the one or more pins or bolts 268 and the platformAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 222. The compliant member 266 provides a biasing force to prohibit lateral movement of the platform 222 when the ladder is opened or closed.

[0077] The biasing force provided by the compliant member 266 may be provided inwardly or outwardly. That is, depending on the type of compliant member 266, the biasing force may provide a force inward on each side of the platform 222 or provide an outward force on each side of the platform 222. The biasing force is configured to maintain the platform 222 centered between the rails as the ladder 200 is opened and closed.

[0078] Referring specifically to FIGS. 19 and 30, a portion of the one or more pins or bolts 268 extends through or is partly disposed in an opening in the brackets 260a and 260b. The pin or bolt 268 typically includes the compliant member 266 disposed thereon or associated therewith. For example, as shown in the up close portion 290 of FIG. 30, from FIG. 18, the complaint member 266 may be disposed between a head of the one or more pins or bolts 268, along a shaft thereof. In some configurations, the compliant member 266 extends from the head of the pin or bolt 268 to the bracket 260b. Another portion of the one or more pins or bolts 268 is disposed through an opening in the platform 222 so that it is coupled to the platform 222. As noted above, the biasing force provided by the compliant member 266 typically pushes or pulls the end of the one or more pin or bolt 268 coupled to the platform 222, and in turn, provides a centering force for the platform 222. The centering force may be inward or outward depending on the type of compliant member 266. The compliant member 266 may be, for example, a spring, tension or compression, a rubber spacer, a gromet, and / or a bushing.

[0079] In some configurations, the lateral movement limiter 264 may aid in limiting the side- to-side movement of the platform 222 as the platform 222 is rotated. The compliant member 266 may be, for example, a wave spring disposed within each lateral movement limiter 264 and configured to provide an equal and opposite force to one another, centering the force in the platform 222 and providing a more consistent operation thereof.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 20 to 24, 28, 29, and 32, a ladder 300 (or portions thereof) is shown. The ladder 300 typically includes a ladder top 302, a front section 304 and a rear section 314. The front section 304 includes the first front rail 306 and the second front rail 308. The rear section 314 includes the first rear rail 316 and the second rear rail 318. A plurality of rungs 310 extends between the first front rail 306 and the second front rail 308. Similarly, a plurality ofAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 rungs or strengthening members 320 extend between the first rear rail 316 and the second rear rail 318. The ladder 300 further includes a platform 322, which is typically configured to support the weight of the user (i.e., for a user to stand upon). The ladder 300, and more specifically the platform 322, may also include a handle 330 or opening for carrying or lifting of the ladder 300.

[0081] Similar to platform 222, the platform 322 is coupled to the first front rail 306 and the second front rail 308 of the front section 304 via a bracket 360, or housing. The platform 322 is typically disposed below a ladder top, (see, e.g., FIG. 32), and above an uppermost rung of the plurality of rungs 310. In some configurations, the platform 322 is coupled to spreader bars 362 disposed on each side of the platform 222, such as via flanges or sidewalls disposed along a side of the platform. The spreader bars 362 are typically disposed within a perimeter of the platform 322 such that, in the opened position, the spreader bars 362 are disposed underneath the platform 322. Further, in this configuration, the spreader bars 362 are disposed substantially parallel to the perimeter of the platform 322. An L-bracket 372 is coupled to one of the plurality of rungs or strengthening members 320 via one or more rivets 373. The spreader bars 362 are coupled to the L-bracket 372 via one or more pins or bolts 376. The spreader bars 362 act as a linkage to coupling the platform 322 to the uppermost rung of the plurality of rungs or strengthening members 320.

[0082] In some configurations, the ladder 300 includes a lateral movement mechanism 370 which includes at least one spring 374 disposed between a portion of the one or more pins or bolts 376 and the L-bracket 372. The at least one spring 374 is typically configured to provide a biasing force on the spreader bar 362 and permit lateral movement of the platform 322 while the ladder 300 is being opened or closed. As noted above, due to the taper of the platform 322, the spreader bars 362 are disposed at an angle relative to the rails when opened, resulting in a lateral displacement of the spreader bars 362 when the ladder 300 is opened and closed. The at least one spring 374 permits that lateral movement / displacement of the spreader bars 362.

[0083] Depending on the type of spring 374, the biasing force may be applied inward towards the center of the platform 322 or outward towards the rails. This may aid in the closing or opening of the ladder 300 due to the spreader bars 362 being biased in a certain direction. For example, when the biasing force is applied towards the center of the platform 322, the biasing force aids in the closing of the ladder 300. In some embodiments, when the biasing force isAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 applied towards the rails, and away from the platform 322, the biasing force aids in the opening of the ladder 300. As noted above, the biasing forces provided by the at least one spring 374 is less than that created by the over center design of the spreader bars 362. The at least one spring 374 may be a compression spring or an extension spring to provide the corresponding biasing force to aid in opening and closing the ladder 300.

[0084] Referring specifically to FIGS. 22, 28, and 29, a portion of the one or more pins or bolts 376 (such as an end thereof) extends through an opening of the spreader bars 362 and couples the one or more pins or bolts 376 to the spreader bars 362. Another portion of the one or more pins or bolts 376 extends through a portion of the L-bracket 372 and typically includes the at least one spring 374 disposed thereon, such as between a head of the one or more pins or bolts 368 on the L-bracket 372 side. As noted above, the biasing force provided by the at least one spring 374 pushes or pulls the end of the one or more pins or bolts 376 coupled to the spreader bars 362, and in turn, permits lateral movement of the spreader bars 362 when the ladder 300 is being opened or closed. The biasing force may be inward or outward depending on the type of spring 374. The spring 374 may be, for example, a tension or compression spring.

[0085] The lateral movement mechanism 370 may aid in opening and / or closing the ladder 300, including a tapered platform 322 and angled spreader bars 362. The spring 374 may allow for the lateral movement of the angled spreader bars 362. The spreader bars 362 are substantially parallel to the angle of the tapered platform 322. In this way, a compression or tension spring may be used to aid in opening or closing the ladder 300 while also permitting the lateral displacement generated by the spreader bars 362.

[0086] Referring to FIGS. 25 to 27, a ladder 400 (or portions thereof) is shown. The ladder 400 typically includes a ladder top 402, a front section 404, and a rear section 414. The front section 404 includes the first front rail 406 and the second front rail 408. The rear section 414 includes the first rear rail 416 and the second rear rail 418. A plurality of rungs 410 extends between the first front rail 406 and the second front rail 408. Similarly, a plurality of rungs or strengthening members 420 extend between the first rear rail 416 and the second rear rail 418. The ladder 400 further includes a platform 422 configured for a user to stand on. The ladder 400, and more specifically the platform 422, may also include a nesting linkage 480 disposed below a perimeter of the platform 422. FIG. 25 illustrates the ladder 400 having the rear rail 416 in aAttorney Docket #: 21601-161145 closed position in solid lines, and the rear rail 416 also is depicted in dashed lines as it is being opened to the opened position for illustrative purposes.

[0087] The nesting linkage 480 includes a first link 482, an outer member, and a second link 484, an inner member. The first link 482 includes a slot 488. The second link includes a post 490 disposed within the slot 488 and is configured to slide within the slot 488. The first link 482 and second link 484 are further connected via a spring 486 coupled to each of the first link 482 and the second link 484. The spring 486 provides a biasing force to the nesting linkage 480. By utilizing the nesting linkage 480, the length of spreader bars 462 may be lengthened when opened, while maintaining a shorter length when the ladder 400 is closed.

[0088] Including the spreader bars 462 disposed below the perimeter of the platform 422 limits the overall size, and in particular, the length of the spreader bars 462. This may result in a more difficult opening and closing of the ladder 300. By lengthening the spreader bars 462, the associated leverage therewith is increased, which in turn, aid in more easily opening and closing the ladder 400. The nesting linkage 480 also allows for the spreader bars 462 to remain disposed below the perimeter of the platform 422.

[0089] Those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of modifications, alterations, and combinations can be made with respect to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the disclosure, and that such modifications, alterations, and combinations are to be viewed as being within the ambit of the disclosed concept.

Claims

Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145 CLAIMS What is claimed:

1. A ladder comprising: a front section and a rear section, the front section and the rear section each including a first rail, a second rail, and a plurality of rungs spaced between the respective first rail and second rail of each the front section and the rear section; a ladder top directly coupled to at least one of the front section or the rear section; and a closure mechanism disposed below the ladder top, the closure mechanism coupled to one of the plurality of front section rungs via a hinge, the closure mechanism including: a tray coupled to the hinge, a spreader bar attached to the tray and one of the plurality of rear section rungs, and a sliding member coupled to the tray, the sliding member includes at least one lip disposed on a top end or a bottom end of the sliding member and configured to interact with the one of the plurality of rear section rungs, wherein actuating the sliding member moves the at least one lip from the one of the plurality of rear section rungs and unlocks the ladder.

2. The ladder of claim 1 wherein the tray further comprises a platform section that is generally flat and can be used as a support surface and one of the plurality of rear section rungs include a catch, where in the catch configured to receive the at least one lip of the sliding member.

3. The ladder of claim 2 wherein the platform section of the tray is approximately two to six inches in depth and wherein the tray further comprises an indention area.Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145 4. The ladder of claim 1 wherein the tray further comprises at least one of a magnetized surface and a tool well.

5. The ladder of claim 1 wherein the sliding member further comprises a spring loaded handle, wherein the spring loaded handle includes a torsion spring.

6. The ladder of claim 1 further comprising alignment geometry disposed on the sliding member and wherein the spreader bar is disposed within a side portion of the tray.

7. The ladder of claim 1 wherein the one of the plurality of rear section rungs includes an overhang configured to interact with the lip of the sliding member.

8. A ladder comprising: a front section and a rear section, the front section and the rear section each including a first rail, a second rail, and a plurality of rungs spaced between the respective first rail and second rail of each the front section and the rear section; a ladder top directly coupled to at least one of the front section or rear section; a platform disposed below the ladder top, the platform attached to the first rail and the second rail of the front section via a bracket coupled to both the first rail and the second rail via a plurality of rivets and attached to one of the plurality of rungs of the rear section via one or more spreader bars; and a compliant member disposed within the bracket and along a bolt, the compliant member configured to bias a portion of the bolt and the platform, wherein the compliant member provides a biasing force to prohibit lateral movement of the platform when the ladder is opened or closed.

9. The ladder of claim 8 wherein the biasing force is directed towards a center of the platform.

10. The ladder of claim 8 wherein the biasing force is directed towards the first rail and the second rail of the front section.

11. The ladder of claim 8 wherein the one or more spreader bars are configured to be disposed within a perimeter of the platform.Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145 12. The ladder of claim 8 wherein the compliant member is at least one of a spring, of a rubber spacer, a gromet, or a bushing.

13. The ladder of claim 8 wherein the platform is tapered from a wider end adjacent the front section to a narrow end adjacent the rear section.

14. A ladder comprising: a front section and a rear section, the front section and the rear section each including a first rail, a second rail, and a plurality of rungs spaced between the respective first rail and second rail of each the front section and the rear section; a ladder top directly coupled to at least one of the front section or the rear section; a platform disposed below the ladder top, the platform attached to the first rail and the second rail of the front section via a bracket coupled to both the first rail and the second rail via a plurality of rivets and attached to one of the plurality of rungs of the rear section via one or more spreader bars and one or more L-brackets; at least one bolt securing the one or more L-brackets and spreader bar of the rear section relative to one another; and at least one spring disposed between a portion of the at least one bolt and the one or more L-brackets and configured to bias the spreader bar, wherein the at least one spring provides a biasing force to permit lateral movement of the platform when the ladder is opened or closed.

15. The ladder of claim 14 wherein the platform includes a tapered perimeter from a wider end adjacent the front section to a narrow end adjacent the rear section.

16. The ladder of claim 15 wherein the one or more spreader bars are parallel to the tapered perimeter.

17. The ladder of claim 15 wherein the one or more spreader bars are configured to be disposed within the tapered perimeter of the platform.

18. The ladder of claim 14 wherein the biasing force is directed towards a center of the platform.Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145 19. The ladder of claim 18 wherein the biasing force aids in closing the ladder.

20. The ladder of claim 14 wherein the biasing force is directed towards the first rail and the second rail of the front section.

21. The ladder of claim 20 wherein the biasing force aids in opening the ladder.

22. The ladder of claim 14 wherein the at least one spring is one of a compression spring or an extension spring.

23. The ladder of claim 14 wherein the platform includes a central planar portion formed of metal and a front end cap and a rear end cap.

24. The ladder of claim 23 wherein the front end cap of the platform includes an opening therein.

25. A ladder comprising: a front section and a rear section, the front section and the rear section each including a first rail, a second rail, and a plurality of rungs spaced between the respective first rail and second rail of each the front section and the rear section; a ladder top directly coupled to at least one of the front section or the rear section; and a platform disposed below the ladder top, the platform attached to the first rail and the second rail of the front section via a bracket coupled to both the first rail and the second rail and attached to one of the plurality of rungs of the rear section via one or more spreader bars; wherein the one or more spreader bars include a nesting linkage comprising an outer member and an inner member configured to at least partially extend into the outer member, wherein the one or more spreader bars include a spring coupled to the outer member and the inner member, wherein the spring is configured to provide a biasing force to the nesting linkage.

26. The ladder of claim 25 wherein the one or more spreader bars are configured to be disposed within a perimeter of the platform.Attorney Docket #: 21601-161145 27. The ladder of claim 25 wherein the spring is a compression spring and the biasing force aids in closing the ladder.

28. The ladder of claim 25 wherein the spring is an extension spring and the biasing force aids in opening the ladder.

Images