Ladder Hinge Assembly for Fast Locking Configuration Changes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing combination ladders lack efficient mechanisms for transitioning between self-supporting and extended configurations, requiring additional support structures and complicating access to elevated areas.
Innovation Solution
A hinge assembly with a releaser mechanism that allows for the unlocking and locking of joints by actuating a pin, enabling smooth transitions between self-supporting and extended ladder configurations without the need for additional support structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a combination ladder is designed to provide both self-supporting and extended configurations, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for multiple support structures and configuration mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple support structures (front support structure and rear support structure) into a single integrated hinge assembly that provides both functions. The hinge assembly includes mounting portions on both the first and second assemblies, with pins that can be positioned in different locations to enable either self-supporting or extended configuration, eliminating the need for separate support structures for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the primary support structure for the ladder, enables transition between self-supporting and extended configurations, and offers adjustable positioning through multiple pin locations. This multi-functional design reduces overall device complexity while maintaining versatility.
2Stability of the object's composition
If additional support structures are added to enable self-supporting configuration, then stability is improved, but device complexity and difficulty of operation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is designed to be self-adjusting through the pin positioning mechanism. When the pin is moved to different locations on the mounting portions, the ladder automatically transitions between configurations without requiring additional adjustment mechanisms or complex operation sequences. The user simply needs to reposition the pin, and the ladder's stability is automatically adjusted accordingly.
3Ease of operation
If a hinge assembly with pin positioning mechanism is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is segmented into distinct functional components: mounting portions on the first and second assemblies, pins with multiple positioning locations, and associated fastening mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall design relatively simple and manufacturable.
Data Source
AI summary
Ladders and ladder components are described herein, including multipurpose and adjustable ladders. In one embodiment, a ladder includes a first assembly having rails and rungs, a second assembly having rails and rungs, and one or more hinges coupling the first and second assemblies together such that the first and second assembly may be positioned relative to one another in at least a position or state and at least a second position or state. The ladder is adjustable by moving a pin from a locked state in which it is located in a recess or slot of the hinges and prevents rotation of the hinges to an unlocked state in which it is removed from the recess or slot. Multiple joints can be simultaneously transitioned between locked and unlocked states using a releaser to move the pin, and a spring can bias the pin into a locked state.