Stowable step assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing climbing structures, such as ladders, lack height adjustability and stowability, making them unsuitable for individuals of varying stature and cumbersome in tight spaces.
Innovation Solution
A stowable step assembly with an articulating step and hanger assembly that includes cam surfaces and stops, allowing the step to be deployed and stowed, and a fastener system for secure attachment to structures, enabling adjustable and compact climbing solutions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed ladder is used for climbing, then the climbing function is provided, but the structure cannot accommodate individuals of various stature and gets in the way in tight spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The step assembly transitions from a fixed position to a movable, articulating structure that can be deployed and stowed. The dynamic mechanism allows the step to move between a horizontal climbing position and a vertical stowed position against the headboard, enabling space savings while maintaining climbing functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The climbing structure is divided into separate modular steps rather than a continuous fixed ladder. Each step assembly can be independently deployed or stowed, allowing selective positioning that accommodates different user heights and minimizes space obstruction when not in use.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed ladder is used for climbing, then the climbing function is provided, but the structure cannot be stowed away when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The step assembly incorporates a cam-based articulating mechanism that enables the step to pivot between deployed and stowed positions. This dynamic system provides stowability without requiring complex motorized or multi-component mechanisms, achieving simplicity through clever mechanical design.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism is designed to be manually operated by the user, who simply needs to apply force to move the step between positions. The mechanism self-latches in the deployed position through the cam stop, eliminating the need for additional locking devices or complex control systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed ladder is used for climbing, then the climbing function is provided, but the structure lacks height adjustability for individuals of various stature
Solution Approach 1:
The climbing structure is divided into separate modular steps rather than a continuous fixed ladder. Each step assembly can be independently manufactured and then assembled, simplifying the manufacturing process while enabling height adjustability through selective deployment of different step assemblies.
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 stowable step assembly provides height adjustability and compact storage, accommodating users of different heights and reducing space constraints, allowing safe and convenient climbing in various environments.
Implementation Method 1
The step has at least one cam surface, allowing articulation of the step from i) a deployed position allowing a user to place weight on the step, to ii) a stowed position allowing the step to be stowed away when not in use, and at least one cam stop configured to stop the cam motion of the step when in the deployed position
Data Source
AI summary
A stowable step assembly for climbing a structure is disclosed which includes an articulating step, including a step, the step has at least one cam surface, allowing articulation of the step from i) a deployed position allowing a user to place weight on the step, to ii) a stowed position, at least one cam stop configured to stop the cam motion of the step when in the deployed position; a hanger, including a connector configured to interface with the step, wherein the connector includes at least one counterpart cam surface to the at least one cam surface of the step and wherein the connector includes at least one counterpart cam stop to the at least one cam stop of the step, at least one hook configured to interface with a counterpart attachment arrangement of a structure; and a fastener configured to couple the connector to the step.