Removable RV Ladder with Pivoting Legs and Integrated Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Recreational vehicle owners face challenges in storing and securing a step ladder due to limited space, with existing mounting methods often impairing the vehicle's functionality, causing hazards, and creating an unsightly appearance when the ladder becomes dislodged during travel.
Innovation Solution
A removable ladder design with a top end and two pairs of legs, where at least one pair is pivotally mounted, allowing the legs to fold or unfold, and a dual mounting system including an upper and lower arrangement with tubular members and expandable brackets for secure attachment to the recreational vehicle, enabling both roof access and independent use as a standard step ladder.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a step ladder is stored in the recreational vehicle, then access to the roof at multiple points is enabled, but storage space is consumed and securing the ladder becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The step ladder is merged with the recreational vehicle's existing ladder structure. The step ladder legs are positioned to straddle the vehicle's ladder, and when folded, they align with and integrate into the ladder's profile, allowing the step ladder functionality to be combined with the existing ladder without requiring separate storage space
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder structure serves multiple functions: it provides both the original ladder access to the roof and simultaneously functions as a step ladder when the legs are unfolded. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for a separate step ladder, addressing the storage space constraint while maintaining versatile access capabilities
2Volume of moving object
If a step ladder is mounted to the recreational vehicle using straps or ropes, then storage space is saved, but the vehicle's appearance is impaired and safety hazards are created
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into discrete mounting points that are integrated into the ladder structure itself. The mounting brackets attach to specific points on the ladder rails, allowing the step ladder to be secured in a structured, safe manner rather than using loose straps or ropes that could become dislodged
Solution Approach 2:
Mounting brackets serve as intermediaries between the step ladder legs and the vehicle's ladder structure. These brackets provide a secure mechanical connection point that eliminates the need for unsafe strap or rope mounting while maintaining a clean appearance
3Volume of moving object
If a step ladder is mounted to the recreational vehicle, then storage space is optimized, but the mounting method may impair vehicle functionality or create hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting brackets and attachment points are pre-configured as part of the ladder structure during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the ladder is installed on the vehicle, the mounting process is straightforward and secure, eliminating reliability issues that could arise from improper field installation
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder structure itself provides the mounting mechanism through its inherent geometry and integrated brackets. The design is self-contained, requiring no external mounting hardware or complex installation procedures, which ensures reliable and consistent mounting security
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment of the invention, a ladder and method for removably mounting the ladder on a recreational vehicle is disclosed. The ladder may be removed and used as a standard step ladder. The ladder includes a top end and two pairs of legs extending downward from the top end. At least one of the pairs of legs is pivotally mounted to the top end, and a pivoting limiting mechanism is provided to allow the pairs of legs to fold adjacent one another or unfold to a use position as a step ladder. An upper mounting arrangement is attached to the recreational vehicle. The arrangement includes two free ends extending downwardly therefrom; and the top end of the ladder includes receivers for receiving free ends of the upper mounting arrangement.