Retractable Ladder Linkage for Machine Access
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing access systems for machines with operator controls located at elevated positions often protrude and can interfere with terrain or external objects, especially when the machine is in motion, and lack efficient stowage solutions that minimize clearance requirements.
Innovation Solution
A ladder access system that can be configured from an extended position to a stowage position, featuring an elongate upper member rotatably connected to the machine, with a link mechanism allowing upward rotation to move the ladder components closer together, reducing lateral projection and enhancing compact storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a ladder access system is extended to provide safe access to elevated operator stations, then operator safety and accessibility are improved, but the ladder projects outwardly and interferes with terrain or external objects during machine operation
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder access system is designed to be movable between an extended position for operator access and a retracted position for machine operation. The system includes a ladder support arm with a ladder carriage that can be positioned outward when needed and retracted when not in use, allowing the machine to traverse rough terrain without interference while maintaining operator safety when the ladder is deployed
2Ease of operation
If the ladder is extended outwardly to provide adequate clearance from the ground, then operator access is facilitated, but the machine cannot pass over rough terrain without hindrance or damage
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder support arm is configured to be movable relative to the machine body, allowing the system to adapt between two states: extended outward to provide operator access to elevated cabs, and retracted to allow the machine to traverse rough terrain without hindrance. This dynamic reconfiguration enables the machine to maintain both operator accessibility and terrain adaptability
3Volume of moving object
If the ladder structure is made compact for storage, then clearance requirements are minimized, but the complexity of the link mechanism increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder carriage is designed to nest within or alongside the ladder support arm when retracted, creating a compact configuration that minimizes lateral projection from the machine. The link mechanism connects the movable ladder support arm to the machine body, enabling the nested arrangement while maintaining structural integrity and operational functionality
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 system provides safe and efficient access to elevated operator stations while minimizing clearance requirements, reducing the risk of interference with terrain or objects during machine operation and ensuring a compact, non-protruding design when not in use.
Implementation Method 1
The ladder includes a link extending between the lower member and the structure such that upward rotation of the upper member from the extended position to the stowage position causes the lower member to move translationally relative to the upper member
Data Source
AI summary
An access ladder configurable from an extended position for providing access to a structure and a stowed position. The access ladder comprises an elongated first member having a first step extending laterally therefrom. An elongated second member is associated with the first member and configured for translational movement relative thereto and has a second step extending laterally therefrom. A link extends between the second member and the structure such that rotation of the first member moves the second member translationally relative to the first member, thereby moving said at least one second step towards said at least one first step.