Retractable Elevator Pit Ladder With Pneumatic Assist
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Solution Overview
Problem
Elevator pits often lack sufficient clearance for a fixed ladder due to building constraints, necessitating a retractable solution that meets code requirements while allowing elevator car operation.
Innovation Solution
A retractable elevator pit ladder assembly with pivot arms, a lift assist mechanism, and a safety switch, allowing for easy deployment and retraction while ensuring safety and compliance with building codes by using a pneumatic spring-load assist and a pull-pin deployment mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed stationary ladder is used to access the elevator pit, then the ladder provides stable and permanent access, but the ladder occupies permanent space that interferes with elevator car operation
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder is designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing it to transition between a retracted position (clearing the path for the elevator car) and a deployed position (providing access to the pit). The ladder pivots on a horizontal axis and can be locked in various positions along its track, enabling dynamic adaptation to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder assembly is divided into separable components including the ladder rungs, pivot arms, locking mechanisms, and mounting brackets. This segmentation allows the ladder to be independently deployed and retracted without affecting the elevator car, and enables maintenance or replacement of individual components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the ladder centerline dimension is reduced to meet code requirements, then the ladder fits within limited clearance, but the ladder becomes more difficult to manufacture and install
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder is designed with a retracted configuration that minimizes its horizontal footprint when not in use, allowing it to pass through tight clearances. The pivot mechanism and locking system enable the ladder to be stored in a compact position that meets code requirements while still providing full access when deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot arm and locking mechanism serve as intermediary components that mediate between the ladder and the elevator car structure. These intermediaries allow the ladder to be positioned precisely at required locations while maintaining the necessary clearance dimensions, facilitating both code compliance and ease of installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a retractable ladder mechanism is implemented, then the ladder provides necessary clearance for elevator car operation, but the mechanism increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder employs a simple pivot mechanism on a horizontal axis with locking capabilities, avoiding complex actuation systems. The pivot arms can be manually or automatically locked in position using pin-and-hole or cam mechanisms, providing reliable positioning without requiring motors, sensors, or control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder mechanism is designed to be self-locking through gravity-assisted engagement of locking pins into locking holes, or through spring-loaded cam mechanisms that automatically engage at predetermined positions. This eliminates the need for external power sources or complex control systems, reducing overall device complexity.
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
Enables safe and efficient access to elevator pits while preventing elevator car movement when the ladder is deployed, maintaining code compliance and reducing manual effort through assistive mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
A retractable ladder assembly for use in an elevator pit is disclosed. The retractable ladder assembly includes a ladder having spaced-apart parallel stiles coupled together via a plurality of stacked horizontally-disposed rungs. At least one pivot arm having a first end is coupled to the ladder. A second end of the pivot arm is adapted for coupling to a wall in the pit. The ladder assembly further includes a lift assist mechanism having a first end coupled to the ladder, and a second end for coupling to the wall. The lift assist mechanism is operative to assist in manually pivoting the ladder to a retractable state.
Data Source
AI summary
A retractable ladder assembly for use in an elevator pit is disclosed. The retractable ladder assembly includes a ladder having spaced-apart parallel stiles coupled together via a plurality of stacked horizontally-disposed rungs. At least one pivot arm having a first end is coupled to the ladder. A second end of the pivot arm is adapted for coupling to a wall in the pit. The ladder assembly further includes a lift assist mechanism having a first end coupled to the ladder, and a second end for coupling to the wall. The lift assist mechanism is operative to assist in manually pivoting the ladder to a retractable state.