Movable Pool Ladder Cantilevered Storage Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pool ladders for above-ground pools lack a secure mechanism to restrict access when not in use, potentially leading to safety hazards and unauthorized entry.
Innovation Solution
A combination ladder assembly with a support member and ladder that can be moved from a use position to a storage position, where the ladder is cantilevered and secured, preventing ingress into the pool by positioning the upper end unsupported and the lower end within apertures on a platform, utilizing clips and latches for secure transition between positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the pool ladder is made movable to allow storage position, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to potential unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder is designed to be movable between use and storage positions, transitioning from a static to a dynamic structure. The support member can be positioned in different configurations (use position with ladder accessible, storage position with ladder cantilevered and inaccessible), allowing the system to adapt its function based on operational needs while maintaining security through the movable design itself
Solution Approach 2:
The support member serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the ladder during use, acts as a securing mechanism when positioned in the storage configuration, and enables both accessible and restricted access modes. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by making the same structure serve both ease of operation and reliability requirements
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the ladder is secured in storage position with upper end unsupported, then safety is improved by restricting access, but device complexity increases due to securing mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The securing function is extracted from a separate complex locking mechanism and integrated into the support member's positioning system. The support member itself, when positioned in the storage configuration, naturally secures the ladder by leaving the upper end unsupported and cantilevered, eliminating the need for additional securing devices while maintaining safety
Solution Approach 2:
The support member automatically provides the securing function when positioned in the storage configuration. The design allows the structure to self-secure the ladder in the storage position without requiring external locking mechanisms or complex securing systems, as the cantilevered configuration with unsupported upper end inherently prevents access
Data Source
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AI summary
A combination ladder assembly and pool includes a pool having a side wall and a support member positionable along an inner surface of the side wall of the pool. The support member may include at least one aperture. Additionally, the combination ladder assembly and pool further includes a ladder positionable along an outer surface of the side wall of the pool. The ladder may be removably coupled to the support member. The ladder may be moveable between a use position, permitting ingress into the pool, and a storage position. When the ladder is in the use position, the leg of the ladder is supported by the support member. When the ladder is in the storage position, the ladder extends from the aperture of the support member to cantilever from the support member.