Pivoting Ladder Assembly with Rack and Pinion Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Fixed ladders on earthmoving equipment obstruct the operator's view and are prone to damage during operation, leading to increased maintenance costs and operational inefficiencies due to their fixed nature.
Innovation Solution
A pivotally mounted ladder assembly with a linear actuator and rotational mechanism that allows the ladder to be easily deployed and stored, enabling safe access to the equipment's cabin without hindering operation, using a pneumatic or hydraulic ram and a rack-and-pinion system for smooth rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed ladder is mounted to earthmoving equipment, then operator access to the cabin is provided, but the ladder obstructs the operator's view and can be easily damaged during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed ladder into a movable ladder assembly that can pivot between a deployed position (providing access) and a stowed position (clearing the operator's view). The ladder is mounted on a pivot axis and can be rotated using a hydraulic cylinder, allowing it to adapt its position based on operational needs while eliminating the obstruction problem of fixed ladders
2Ease of operation
If a pivotally movable ladder is used, then operator access is improved, but the ladder still obstructs view and can be broken during operation when not properly positioned
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle through the automatic positioning system where the hydraulic cylinder automatically moves the ladder to the correct stowed position when the dozer blade is lowered. The system uses the dozer's own operational movements (blade lowering) to trigger the ladder's automatic repositioning, ensuring the ladder is reliably positioned without manual intervention and preventing damage through automated protection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the interconnection between the dozer blade positioning system and the ladder positioning system. The system monitors the blade position and uses this feedback to automatically adjust the ladder position accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that ensures the ladder is properly positioned based on the actual operational state of the equipment
3Extent of automation
If a hydraulic ram is used to move the ladder, then automated positioning is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the merging principle by integrating the ladder actuation system with the existing dozer blade hydraulic system. The same hydraulic power source and control mechanisms used for the blade are utilized to operate the ladder, combining multiple functions into a unified system. This reduces overall system complexity by eliminating separate hydraulic systems while achieving automated ladder positioning
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 ladder assembly provides unobstructed operation and reduced risk of damage by allowing a wide range of motion, ensuring safe and efficient access to the equipment's cabin without compromising the operational view or structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The rotational actuator may include a shaft. The shaft is normally able to be rotated. The rotation of the shaft is typically caused by movement of the linear actuator. The linear actuator may include a rack which is attached to the ram.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a ladder assembly for equipment, the ladder assembly comprising a ladder pivotally mounted to a mount; an actuation mechanism that includes a drive that engages a rotational actuator, the rotational actuator operatively connected to the ladder; wherein the drive causes rotation of the rotational actuator causing the ladder to pivot about the mount.