Herringbone Ladder Connecting Rod Stabilizing Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Herringbone ladders lack stability when unfolded and not in use, as the connecting rods are not fixed, leading to potential tipping and instability.
Innovation Solution
A connecting rod stabilizing structure that includes first and second connecting rods, which are automatically fixed when the ladder is fully unfolded, providing stability even without a user, and can be unlocked with a single button for easy folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If two connecting rods are used as stabilizing structures, then the unfolding angle of the herringbone ladder is limited and stability is improved when a user stands on it, but the ladder itself remains unstable when unfolded and not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting rod structure transitions from a static hinged configuration to a dynamic locked configuration. When the ladder is unfolded, the connecting rods automatically lock through the latch mechanism, transforming the structure from movable to fixed state, thereby providing stability without requiring user weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The stabilizing structure is designed to automatically lock and stabilize the ladder when unfolded, without requiring user action or weight. The latch mechanism self-activates through the unfolding motion itself, and the spring mechanism provides automatic engagement, making the system self-stabilizing.
2Stability of the object's composition
If connecting rods are hinged between ladder bodies to limit unfolding angle, then stability during use is improved, but the complexity of the stabilizing structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilizing function and the angle-limiting function are merged into a single integrated connecting rod structure. The same connecting rods that limit the unfolding angle also provide stability during use, eliminating the need for separate stabilizing mechanisms and reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting rod structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it limits the unfolding angle, provides stability during use, and automatically locks when unfolded. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components and simplifies the overall stabilizing system.
3Stability of the object's composition
If latch sticks are used to fix connecting rods automatically, then stability without user weight is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manual locking mechanism is replaced with an automatic latch system driven by spring force. The spring mechanism automatically engages the latch stick with the latch hole through the unfolding motion, eliminating the need for manual intervention while providing reliable automatic stabilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes changes in geometric parameters during unfolding to trigger the locking mechanism. As the angle between ladder bodies changes during unfolding, this motion is converted into linear motion of the latch stick through the connecting rod mechanism, automatically engaging the lock at the appropriate moment.
4Reliability
If multiple connecting rod structures are added for stability, then reliability is improved, but the ease of folding the ladder decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting rod structures are designed to periodically engage and disengage during the folding and unfolding cycle. The latch mechanism automatically engages during unfolding to provide stability, and automatically disengages during folding, creating a periodic action that maintains reliability while preserving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting rod structures transition dynamically between locked and unlocked states based on the ladder's configuration. During unfolding, they lock to provide stability; during folding, they unlock to allow movement. This dynamic behavior ensures reliability when needed while maintaining ease of operation during folding.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to the technical field of ladders, and in particular to a connecting rod stabilizing structure for a herringbone ladder. The connecting rod stabilizing structure for a herringbone ladder includes a transverse tube and two connecting rod structures. The connecting rod structure includes a first connecting rod and a second connecting rod. One end of the first connecting rod is fixedly sleeved with a connecting sleeve. A latch stick is slidably connected in the connecting sleeve. The second connecting rod is provided with an insertion hole. The transverse tube is connected between the two connecting sleeves and is in communication with both connecting sleeves. Even when there is no user standing on the herringbone ladder, the connecting rod structures can play a role in improving the stability of the herringbone ladder.