Ladder Leveling Structure for Stable Use on Uneven Steps

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ladders lack a stable leveling structure, making them unstable on uneven or step-like surfaces, which can lead to tilting, falling, or sliding during use.

Innovation Solution

A ladder leveling device with a base, lifting support, and support plate, featuring a sliding frame, rod seat, and adjustable adjustment plates, allowing for horizontal adjustment and locking on uneven surfaces.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If blocks are placed on the lower surface for leveling the ladder on step surfaces, then the ladder can be used on step surfaces, but the block is prone to shifting, causing the ladder to become unbalanced and unstable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to use ladder on step surfacesVSAvoidstability of ladder
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The leveling device is divided into separate functional components: a base for placement on step surfaces, a lifting support mechanism with sliding frame and adjustment plates for height adjustment, and a support plate for providing a stable upper surface. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function effectively, with the base adapting to step surfaces and the lifting support providing stable height adjustment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lifting support mechanism incorporates dynamic elements including a sliding frame that can move vertically along guide rails, adjustment plates with holes for different height positions, and spring-loaded locking mechanisms. This dynamic structure enables the device to adjust to different step configurations while maintaining stability during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If the ladder is used horizontally along a step, then the ladder can be used on step surfaces, but the usage is limited and lacks flexibility

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility of usageVSAvoidusage limitations
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The leveling device is designed with universal applicability to work on various step configurations and ground conditions. The base can be placed on different step surfaces, the lifting support can adjust to multiple heights, and the support plate can be positioned at various angles, enabling the device to function in multiple usage scenarios including step surfaces, uneven ground, and inclined surfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If two sides of the ladder are placed at different levels on uneven ground, then the ladder can be used on uneven ground, but the ladder may easily tilt or fall down, increasing instability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to use ladder on uneven groundVSAvoidstability of ladder
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The lifting support mechanism functions as a counterbalancing system that compensates for the unevenness of the ground. By adjusting the height of the support plate relative to the base, the device creates a level working surface that counteracts the tilt caused by uneven ground, preventing the ladder from becoming unstable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #8Anti-weight (Counterweight)

Solution Approach 2:

The spring-loaded locking mechanism in the adjustment plates provides self-service functionality by automatically locking the sliding frame at selected height positions. This self-locking feature ensures stability without requiring continuous manual adjustment, allowing the device to maintain its leveling position independently once adjusted.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 device provides a stable, horizontal surface for ladders on step-like environments and uneven ground, preventing tilting and enhancing safety and flexibility of use.

Implementation Method 1

the free end maintains downward under the action of a limit spring

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS20260085580A1Ladder leveling device and ladder
Publication Date: 2026.03.26 LIU QIANWEN
  • US20260085580A1 patent drawing
  • US20260085580A1 patent drawing
  • US20260085580A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A ladder leveling device and a ladder are provided. The ladder leveling device includes a base, a lifting support, and a support plate, where the lifting support includes a support frame, a sliding frame, a rod seat, and a sliding rod. The support frame is arranged on the base; the sliding frame supports the support plate and is slidably mounted on the support frame; the rod seat is fixed in the support frame and has a fulcrum therein; and the sliding rod has one end supporting the support plate and the other end slidably inserted into the rod seat, at least one adjustment plate is provided on the sliding rod, the adjustment plate has one end supported by the fulcrum and the other end being a free end for adjustment, and the free end maintains downward under the action of a limit spring.