Retractable Operator Access Ladder for Mining Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing access systems for machines, such as construction and mining equipment, face challenges in providing adequate clearance and compact storage, especially when the operator needs to ascend to elevated controls while the machine operates on rough terrain, risking contact with external objects.
Innovation Solution
A configurable ladder system with an elongate upper and lower member, a link mechanism, and a release mechanism that allows the ladder to rotate from an extended access position to a stowed position, ensuring compact storage and minimizing protrusion during machine operation, using an actuator and lever assembly for mechanical disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed ladder is used for accessing elevated operator stations, then access is provided, but the ladder projects outwardly and risks contact with external objects during machine operation on rough terrain
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder is designed as a movable, retractable structure that can dynamically change its position between extended (for access) and retracted (for protection) states, allowing it to adapt to different operational conditions and eliminate the harmful effect of fixed protrusion
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder segments are designed to nest within each other when retracted, with inner ladder sections stored inside outer sections, creating a compact configuration that minimizes protrusion and eliminates contact risk during machine operation
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a retractable ladder is used to minimize protrusion, then contact with external objects is reduced, but the device complexity increases due to additional mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder structure integrates multiple functions into a single system: the rungs serve both as structural support and as guide rails for the telescoping mechanism, while the link mechanism combines structural support with actuation function, reducing the need for separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The ladder system uses the machine's existing hydraulic system to provide actuation force for extension and retraction, eliminating the need for separate motors or actuators, and the gravity-assisted telescoping mechanism automatically returns the ladder to its retracted position
3Ease of operation
If the ladder is extended for access, then operator station accessibility is improved, but the ladder occupies more space and may interfere with machine operations
Solution Approach 1:
The ladder employs a telescoping design where inner sections are stored within outer sections, allowing the ladder to reduce its volume significantly when retracted, occupying minimal space during machine operation while providing full access when extended
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 the risk of contact with external objects by compacting the ladder during operation, ensuring operational clearance and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator including a lever in cooperation with the first member, wherein the lever is biased towards the first member
Implementation Method 2
a link pivotally and slidably engaging an elongate channel formed in the elongate second member. The link extends between the second member and the structure through a slot formed in and extending through a surface of the first member
Implementation Method 3
The actuator including a lever in cooperation with the first member, wherein the lever is biased towards the first 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.