Hinged Stepladder with Latch Mechanism for Multi-Configuration Use

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing stepladders cannot efficiently function as both a single ladder and an extension ladder while meeting ANSI performance standards, leading to the need for separate purchases and inadequate availability when needed.

Innovation Solution

A stepladder design with a hingedly connected second ladder section and a latch mechanism that allows the second section to be securely locked against the first section, enabling conversion between stepladder, single ladder, and extension ladder configurations, with a compact folding capability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a stepladder is designed to be self-supported on four legs, then it provides stable support for users, but it cannot be used as a single ladder or extension ladder against walls

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveladder configuration versatilityVSAvoidladder stability and safety

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The stepladder is designed with movable, hinged sections that allow dynamic reconfiguration between a four-legged stepladder configuration and a two-legged single/extension ladder configuration. The hinged connections enable the ladder to adapt its structure based on usage requirements while maintaining stability through proper locking mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The ladder incorporates multiple functional configurations within a single device, allowing it to serve as both a self-supported stepladder and a wall-supported single or extension ladder. This multi-functionality is achieved through hinged sections that can be positioned and locked in different arrangements to meet various ladder performance standards.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If different ladders are purchased for different purposes, then each ladder can be optimized for its specific use, but it increases cost and reduces availability when needed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-purpose functionalityVSAvoidladder structure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple ladder types (stepladder, single ladder, extension ladder) are merged into a single device through hinged connections that allow the same structure to serve different functions. The first and second ladder sections can be arranged in different configurations to provide the functionality of multiple separate ladders.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The ladder is divided into separate, hinged sections (first ladder section and second ladder section) that can be independently positioned and locked. This segmentation allows each section to be optimized for different configurations while maintaining the ability to function as a complete ladder system in multiple modes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If a stepladder is leaned against a wall for use as a single ladder, then it can provide access to heights, but the other ladder section may unfold and cause a slip-out event

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesingle ladder capabilityVSAvoidrisk of slip-out events

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The ladder incorporates self-locking mechanisms at the hinged connections that automatically engage when the ladder is properly configured. These locking mechanisms prevent unintended unfolding of the ladder sections during use, eliminating the need for constant manual monitoring and reducing the risk of slip-out events.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanisms are designed to prevent harmful unfolding before it can occur during ladder use. By pre-positioning the locking elements and designing the hinge structure to naturally engage the locks, the system counteracts the potential harmful motion of section unfolding before it can cause a slip-out event.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Data Source

PatentUS10550639B2Stepladder adapted for use as a single ladder or an extension ladder

Publication Date: 2020.02.04 LOUISVILLE LADDER GROUP LLC

AI summary

A ladder apparatus has a first ladder section having a pair of side rails and a plurality of rungs extending between the side rails, a second ladder section hingedly connected to the first ladder section adjacent an upper end of the first ladder section, and a latch mechanism affixed to one of the ladder sections and engageable with the other of the first and second ladder sections. The second ladder section is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. The latch mechanism is adapted to secure the second ladder section in the retracted position. The second ladder section will extend in generally parallel relation to the first ladder section when in this retracted position. A ladder top is affixed to the upper end of the first ladder section and extends outwardly therefrom so as to have an end surface positioned away from the first ladder section.