Ladder Storage Tray Plug-in Clasp and Non-circular Receptacles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing storage trays for ladders lack flexibility and secure attachment options for objects, particularly on the bucket hook, and do not allow for simultaneous attachment of multiple items or flexible positioning of hooks.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a plug-in clasp system with through holes and non-circular receptacles for hooks, allowing for secure attachment and multiple orientation options, along with a belt and buckle mechanism for enhanced securing and flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a simple bucket hook is used for attaching objects, then the structure remains simple, but the security and flexibility of attachment are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into separate functional components: a plug-in clasp mechanism with male and female parts, multiple receptacles for different orientations, and a bucket hook. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while providing secure attachment through the interlocking clasp mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The plug-in clasp mechanism is nested within the storage tray structure, with the male part inserted into a receptacle from one side and the female part from the other side. This nested arrangement integrates the security mechanism seamlessly into the tray while maintaining compactness and avoiding excessive structural complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If only a single attachment point is provided, then the structure remains simple, but multiple items cannot be attached simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The storage tray is designed with multiple receptacles that can accommodate different types of attachments simultaneously. The plug-in clasp system and hook system work together to provide universal attachment capability for various items including buckets, tools, and accessories, allowing multiple items to be attached at different locations and orientations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hooks can be attached in any orientation, then flexibility is improved, but the risk of accidental detachment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The receptacles are designed with asymmetric geometries that require hooks to be inserted in specific orientations. The non-circular cross-sectional areas of the receptacles create a key-lock effect where only properly oriented hooks can be inserted and securely held, preventing accidental detachment while maintaining orientation flexibility for intentional repositioning.
4Ease of operation
If a through hole design is used for the receptacle, then ease of insertion is improved, but positioning precision may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Stop features are pre-positioned within the through-hole receptacles to provide predetermined positioning points. These stops guide the male part of the plug-in clasp to the correct position during insertion, ensuring precise positioning while maintaining the ease of through-hole insertion. The stops act as preliminary positioning elements that guide the attachment process.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 2a
AI summary
The invention relates to a storage tray (A) for a ladder, in particular for a step ladder, wherein the storage tray (A) has at least one compartment (2b) in which items can be stored, wherein the storage tray (A) has a first receptacle (5) for a first part (S1) of a snap fastener (S) which can be attached to the storage tray (A).