Integrated Ladder Hooks for Tool Storage Without Interference

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ladder storage solutions are inconvenient due to difficulty in attachment, require separate storage, and increase the size or weight of the ladder, interfering with its operation.

Innovation Solution

Integrated ladder storage devices, such as hinge buttons, slots, rail hooks, and side hooks, that are built into the ladder structure to securely hold tools and equipment without increasing the ladder's size or weight, ensuring easy access and preventing interference during use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If removable tool holders or trays are used with ladders, then tools and equipment can be stored on the ladder, but the attachment and removal process becomes difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage capabilityVSAvoidattachment ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The storage device is merged with the ladder structure itself, where hooks are integrated into the rung design and trays are attached via integrated retaining means. This eliminates the need for separate removable holders, making the storage system an inherent part of the ladder that is always ready for use without complex attachment procedures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The ladder structure provides its own storage capability through built-in hooks and retaining means, eliminating the need for external removable tool holders. The ladder serves itself by incorporating storage functions directly into its design, making tools and equipment readily available without requiring separate attachment devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If removable tool holders or trays are used with ladders, then tools can be stored on the ladder, but the ladder and tool holder must be stored separately, taking up additional space

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage capabilityVSAvoidstorage space

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Adaptability or versatility

If removable tool holders or trays are used with ladders, then tools can be stored on the ladder, but the tool holder must be removed and carried separately due to weight or awkward transport configuration

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage capabilityVSAvoidtransport ease

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Adaptability or versatility

If built-in storage devices are added to the ladder, then tools and equipment can be stored on the ladder, but the size or weight of the ladder increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestorage capabilityVSAvoidladder weight

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

Storage functionality is added locally to specific parts of the ladder (hooks on rungs, retaining means on tray positions) rather than adding a complete separate storage system. This allows the ladder to gain storage capability while minimizing overall weight increase, as only specific localized areas are modified with lightweight hook and retaining structures.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The hooks and retaining means are designed to be multi-functional, serving both as structural elements of the ladder and as storage attachment points. This universal design allows the same components to fulfill multiple roles, avoiding the need for additional dedicated storage structures that would increase weight.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS12523097B2Ladder storage devices

Publication Date: 2026.01.13 TRICAM IND LLC

AI summary

Various devices and methods for hanging tools or other items from a ladder are disclosed. The devices may be incorporated into parts of the ladder itself or be separate add-on devices for use with assorted ladders. The devices include a hinge button hook, a hinge button, a foot hook, and a rail hook.