Gravity Reference Gauge for Ladder Pitch and Lateral Angle Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ladder alignment devices are either complex to operate or limited to motor-driven systems, making it difficult to manually and accurately adjust the angle of inclination and lateral angle during ladder handling, particularly in stressful situations like disaster relief.
Innovation Solution
An adjustment gauge device with two reference chambers and a reference sphere, fastened to the ladder stile, allows ergonomic and intuitive angle indication, independent of tilt direction, using gravitational force for accurate alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional alignment devices are used, then angle measurement capability is provided, but device complexity increases and ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into two independent reference chambers (first and second chambers) that can independently indicate angle of attack and lateral angle respectively. This segmentation allows each chamber to be simple in design while the combination provides comprehensive measurement capability, resolving the contradiction between measurement completeness and operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Each reference chamber serves multiple functions: it acts as both a measurement indicator and a self-contained alignment reference. The chambers can indicate both angle of attack and lateral angle depending on their orientation, providing universal measurement capability without requiring multiple separate devices, thus maintaining ease of operation while achieving comprehensive measurement
2Measurement precision
If alignment devices are designed for motor-driven systems, then precise control is achieved, but adaptability to manual handling systems decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The reference chambers are designed to be universally applicable to both motor-driven and manual handling systems. They provide precise alignment indication through gravitational reference without requiring motorization, enabling the same device to serve both automated and manual applications, thus achieving both precision and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The reference chambers utilize gravity as a self-contained reference mechanism that requires no external power source or control system. This self-service approach to maintaining alignment reference allows the device to function equally well in manual handling applications where motor-driven control is absent, while still providing precise measurement capability
3Measurement precision
If complex alignment procedures are used, then measurement accuracy is maintained, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reference chambers are pre-configured with reference spheres positioned to indicate correct alignment at specific angles (e.g., 45 degrees for angle of attack, 5 degrees for lateral angle). This preliminary setup eliminates the need for complex measurement procedures during actual use, allowing operators to quickly verify alignment by simply observing sphere position, thus maintaining accuracy while minimizing time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The reference chambers utilize visual indicators (such as colored markings or transparent/opaque regions) that change appearance based on sphere position. When the sphere is in the correct position indicating proper alignment, the visual indicator provides an immediate yes/no confirmation. This visual feedback system maintains measurement accuracy while dramatically reducing the time required for alignment verification
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates quick and safe manual adjustment of ladder angles, minimizing accidents by providing clear yes/no statements under stress, suitable for high-risk environments.
Implementation Method 1
each with a reference sphere (3) that can be displaced therein by means of gravitational force
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3A~4
Figure 5~7
AI summary
When manually erecting and positioning ladders, it is crucial to maintain a relatively narrow range of angles. Experience shows that, not only in private settings but also in disaster relief, it is not always easy for those handling the ladders to achieve this advantageously safe angle.The present invention relates to an adjustment device comprising two externally accessible reference chambers, each containing a reference sphere displaceable by gravity for indicating at least one target angle range. The adjustment device is configured to be attached to a ladder, particularly to a stile, by a composite material or by positive/positive locking, or to be provided in an integral configuration with the ladder, particularly with the stile, and especially in an orientation orthogonal or parallel to the (appropriately selected for the arrangement) surface of the ladder. This simplifies and improves the safety of manual handling, particularly of ladders. The invention also relates to a correspondingly equipped ladder and a manufacturing method for such an adjustment device.