Folding Step Stool with Pivotable Workpiece Brackets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable step stools and workpiece support devices lack versatility and practicality for craftsmen, as they are either too cumbersome for transportation and storage or insufficient in supporting both climbing and workpiece functions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A combined portable step stool and workpiece support device with a folding frame, featuring pivotable rear legs, a movable step system, and a pivotable second workpiece support bracket that can transition between use and storage positions, allowing for compact storage and versatile use as both a step stool and workpiece support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate step stool and workpiece support device are used, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall device complexity and the number of tools needed increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a step stool and workpiece support device into a single integrated structure. The support brackets are formed as integral parts of the leg structures, allowing the same device to function both as a step stool (with horizontal support surfaces) and as a workpiece support (with vertical support brackets). This merging eliminates the need for separate tools while maintaining both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with universal functionality where the leg structures serve dual purposes: they provide structural support for the step stool function and simultaneously form vertical support brackets for workpiece support. The support brackets can be positioned and adjusted to accommodate different workpiece sizes and orientations, making the device adaptable to multiple woodworking tasks.
2Reliability
If a non-collapsible support bracket is used, then the workpiece support function is stable and reliable, but the device becomes cumbersome for transportation and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The support brackets are designed with pivotal connections that allow them to change position dynamically. In the working position, the brackets extend vertically to provide stable workpiece support. During storage or transportation, the brackets can be folded or repositioned to reduce the overall device volume. The pivotal joints maintain structural integrity while enabling compact configuration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the support bracket is positioned far from the vertical leg to increase workpiece support capacity, then the support capacity increases, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support brackets are designed to nest closely against the vertical legs when not in use or during storage. The bracket structure incorporates hollow sections or recesses that allow parts to be nested within each other, minimizing the horizontal space footprint while maintaining adequate support capacity when deployed.
Data Source
AI summary
A combined step stool and workpiece support device has a folding frame with a rigid front leg structure including front legs and a first support bar interconnecting the front legs at an upper end thereof. The frame also includes a rear leg structure including rear legs, each being pivoted to a front leg via a first hinge for movement of the rear leg structure between a use position and a storage position. Portions of the front legs above the first hinges and the first support bar form a first workpiece support bracket. The device includes a pivotable rigid second workpiece support bracket with a pair of arms, each having a lower end pivotally connected via a second hinge to the frame. The second support bracket is pivotal between a use position and a collapsed position.