Collapsible Ladder With Pivoting Beam And Rotatable Steps
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ladders, including boat ladders, are cumbersome for storage and require manual deployment, lacking compactness and efficient automatic or semi-automatic operation for easy use and stowage.
Innovation Solution
A compactable ladder system with a pivoting main support beam and rotatable steps, utilizing a guide block assembly and support arms for automatic deployment from a storage position to a use position, optionally enhanced with a linear motion actuator for remote control or semi-automatic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional ladders use parallel rigid support members with fixed rungs, then structural strength is maintained, but storage compactness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder is divided into modular components: a telescoping main beam that segments into multiple sections for compact storage, and detachable step assemblies that can be separated from the main beam. This segmentation allows the ladder to collapse into a compact configuration for storage while maintaining full structural integrity when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder transitions from a static fixed structure to a dynamic collapsible structure. The main beam incorporates telescoping sections that can extend and retract, and the step assemblies can be detached and reattached, enabling the ladder to adapt between compact storage configuration and full deployment configuration.
2Device complexity
If manual engagement and disengagement mechanisms are used, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder incorporates self-service mechanisms where the telescoping main beam and detachable step assemblies are designed to be easily extended and collapsed through simple user actions. The steps can be quickly attached and detached from the main beam without complex tools or procedures, enabling users to independently deploy and store the ladder with minimal effort.
3Volume of moving object
If compactable design with rotatable steps is implemented, then storage compactness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The step assemblies are designed to nest within or attach to the telescoping main beam sections. When collapsed, the steps can be positioned within the retracted main beam or stored in a compact configuration that utilizes the same space, creating a nested arrangement that maximizes storage compactness.
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder components are pre-configured with attachment mechanisms and guiding structures that enable quick and easy assembly. The telescoping sections and step assemblies are designed with built-in alignment features and connection points that simplify the deployment process, reducing the complexity of operation despite the compactable design.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible ladder with steps that remained stored within the frame or automatically deploy for use. The ladder can be manual, semi-automatic, or remote controlled.