Multi-Position Ladder With Remote Hinge Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ladders are limited in their versatility, requiring multiple types for different tasks, and lack easy reconfiguration for various job requirements.
Innovation Solution
A multi-position ladder with remote actuation of hinges that allows for conversion between leaning, stepladder, stairway, and straight modes through a telescoping section and a system of actuators and cables to unlock and lock hinges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a ladder is designed to be multi-position with multiple configurations, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder is divided into separate sections (front section, rear section, telescoping section) that can be independently positioned and locked. Each section can be configured separately to achieve different ladder modes, reducing the complexity of managing a single complex structure while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder incorporates movable hinges with locking mechanisms that allow transitions between fixed and movable states. The telescoping section provides dynamic length adjustment, enabling the ladder to adapt to different configurations while maintaining structural integrity through controlled movement rather than complex fixed structures.
2Ease of operation
If a multi-position ladder allows easy reconfiguration between modes, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may worsen due to more moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanisms are designed to automatically engage and lock when the ladder is positioned in a desired configuration, reducing the need for manual intervention. The hinge design allows the ladder sections to self-align and secure themselves, maintaining reliability while simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanisms are pre-positioned at specific locations along the ladder sections, ensuring that when a user positions the ladder in a desired mode, the locking points are already in place to provide immediate stabilization. This pre-planned positioning ensures reliability is maintained during transitions between configurations.
3Ease of operation
If remote actuation of hinges is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A cable or linkage system acts as an intermediary between the user's manual input and the hinge locking mechanisms. By pulling or pushing the actuator, the user transmits force through the cable to simultaneously engage or disengage multiple hinges, simplifying operation while distributing the mechanical complexity across the linkage system rather than concentrating it in one location.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function ladder having a front section having a first front rail and. a rear section. The ladder having a first hinge attached to the first front rail and the first rear rail. The ladder having a second hinge attached to the second front rail and the second rear rail. Each hinge having a locked state and an unlocked state. The ladder having an actuator directly attached to the front section and remote and separate and apart from the first hinge and the second hinge. When the first and second hinges are in the unlocked state, the rear section can be moved between a leaning ladder mode, a step ladder mode, a stairway ladder mode and a straight ladder mode upon which each hinge goes into the locked state in the desired ladder mode.