Interior Ladder Rack with Gas Spring Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for transporting ladders in vehicles are inadequate as they often require external mounting, which may not be suitable for interior storage, and lack secure and adjustable mechanisms to accommodate different ladder sizes and types.
Innovation Solution
A ladder storage system within a vehicle's interior featuring an adjustable elongate member, a support ledge, and a pivotable latch with a gas spring mechanism for secure mounting and easy removal, allowing for versatile placement on walls, doors, or partitions, and accommodating various ladder sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ladders are mounted on the outside of the vehicle, then they are secured and stable, but they occupy external space and may not be suitable for all vehicle types
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by moving the ladder storage from external mounting to internal vehicle mounting. The rack system is installed inside the vehicle cabin, utilizing interior walls and door frames instead of external vehicle surfaces, thereby securing ladders within the vehicle space rather than occupying external space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional external surface mounting to three-dimensional interior space utilization. The rack system leverages the vertical and horizontal dimensions within the vehicle cabin, mounting on interior door frames and walls to create secure storage positions that utilize available interior volume rather than external surface area.
2Area of stationary object
If ladders are stacked in the interior space of the vehicle, then space is utilized, but they are not secured and may move during vehicle movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by providing a pre-configured rack system with securing mechanisms (latches, clips, or locks) that are installed in advance on the vehicle interior. When a ladder is placed on the rack, these mechanisms automatically or manually engage to secure the ladder in position, preventing movement during vehicle operation without requiring additional securing actions.
3Reliability
If a fixed ladder rack is installed, then ladders are securely held, but they cannot accommodate ladders of different sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by incorporating adjustable components into the rack system. The rack includes vertically movable support bars or adjustable latches that can be repositioned along the rack structure to accommodate different ladder heights and sizes. This dynamic adjustability allows the same rack to securely hold various ladder types while maintaining reliable securing through the adjustable engagement mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves universality by designing a multi-functional rack system that can accommodate multiple ladder sizes, types, and configurations. The adjustable components and versatile mounting options enable the single rack structure to serve multiple purposes - holding different ladder lengths, accommodating various ladder widths, and providing secure attachment for different ladder weights - thereby replacing the need for multiple fixed racks.
4Adaptability or versatility
If an adjustable ladder rack is provided, then different ladder sizes are accommodated, but the complexity of the mounting system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the rack system into modular, independent components. The adjustable elements (such as individual support bars, latches, or clips) are segmented as separate units that can be independently adjusted or repositioned. This segmentation simplifies the overall structure compared to a fully integrated complex mechanism, as each segment can be adjusted separately without affecting the entire rack system.
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
The system effectively secures ladders in place using a gas spring mechanism, allowing for efficient storage and easy retrieval, while being adjustable to fit different ladder sizes and types, enhancing space utilization and safety during vehicle movement.
Implementation Method 1
a latch pivotably secured to the elongate member and adapted to engage a top portion of the ladder... One or both of the ledge and latch can be adapted to be movable and securable along the elongate member
Data Source
AI summary
A mounting system for detachably storing ladders comprising at least one elongate member with a length and opposed first and second ends. The system also includes a ledge adapted to be movable along the length of the elongate member. A securing latch is provided which is adapted to be movable along the length of the elongate member. The securing latch is pivotally carried on the elongate member. The securing latch can have a gas spring with a body pivotally attached to the elongate member and a rod pivotally attached to the latch. The latch has a profile complimentary to a surface of said ladder.