Acute Angle Cab Entry Stairway for Crop Sprayer Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crop sprayer cab entry systems are inefficient due to the need for operators to change directions and maneuver around obstacles when traveling between the cab and ground level, consuming time and reducing productivity.
Innovation Solution
A cab entry assembly with a platform and stair assembly that allows for a straight, angled approach to the cab door, eliminating the need to change direction and providing a safe, convenient route by positioning the stairway at an acute angle to the cab, enabling unobstructed entry and exit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional ladder or stair cab entry system is used, then the operator can access the cab from ground level, but the operator must change directions and maneuver around obstacles when traversing between the cab and ground level
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the ladder assembly at an acute angle (e.g., 45 degrees) relative to the longitudinal axis of the crop sprayer, creating a diagonal access path that intersects the door opening plane. This angular positioning allows the operator to approach the cab door directly along the ladder assembly without needing to change direction or maneuver around obstacles, effectively utilizing spatial dimensionality to optimize the access trajectory.
2Device complexity
If the ladder or stair is positioned at the leading or trailing end of the vehicle, then the cab entry assembly is structurally simplified, but the operator must traverse a catwalk that extends along the main frame
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric positioning of the ladder assembly relative to the cab and vehicle centerline, mounting it at an acute angle rather than symmetrically at the leading or trailing end. This asymmetric configuration allows the ladder to intersect the door opening plane directly, eliminating the need for operators to traverse long catwalks along the main frame, thus optimizing both structural efficiency and operational convenience.
3Area of stationary object
If the platform space is limited, then the cab entry assembly is more compact, but the operator must stand aside to provide room for the cab door to move
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the ladder assembly at an acute angle to the longitudinal axis, creating a diagonal access path that intersects the door opening plane. This angular positioning allows the operator to approach and enter the cab door directly without needing additional lateral platform space, as the access trajectory naturally accommodates door movement in the lateral dimension while maintaining a compact platform footprint.
Data Source
AI summary
A platform assembly is supported by the main frame and includes i) a framework, ii) an upper platform foot support secured to the framework and positioned adjacent to the doorway, and iii) a first stair member secured to the framework and spaced apart from the upper platform foot support. A stair assembly is movably attached to the framework and includes a second stair member. The door is movable between i) a first position in which the door is positioned to cover the door opening so as to block entry into the cab through the door opening, and ii) a second position in which the door is spaced apart from the door opening so as to enable entry into the cab through the door opening. The upper platform foot support, first stair member, and second stair member define a stairway leading to and from the door opening. A first plane intersects the upper platform foot support, the first stair, and the second stair. The first plane further intersects the door when the door is positioned in the second position. The first plane is spaced apart from the door when the door is positioned in the first position. The central longitudinal axis lies in a second plane. The first plane intersects the second plane to define an acute angle.