This disclosure relates to ladders. More specifically, this disclosure relates to modular ladder system.
Ladders are commonly used to reach portions of an elevated structure not otherwise accessible. Among many other uses, a ladder can allow a user to reach such an elevated structure to perform maintenance and repair or as part of a building process. However, ladders are often fixed in length and therefore cannot easily accommodate elevated structures of varying heights. Additionally, long ladders can be difficult to transport due to their size.
It is to be understood that this summary is not an extensive overview of the disclosure. This summary is exemplary and not restrictive, and it is intended neither to identify key or critical elements of the disclosure nor delineate the scope thereof. The sole purpose of this summary is to explain and exemplify certain concepts of the disclosure as an introduction to the following complete and extensive detailed description.
Disclosed is a modular ladder system comprising a first ladder module; and a second ladder module, the modular ladder system configurable in an unassembled configuration and an assembled configuration; wherein, in the unassembled configuration, the first ladder module is detached from the second ladder module, and in the assembled configuration, the first ladder module is coupled to the second ladder module to define a ladder.
Also disclosed is a modular ladder system includes a first ladder module comprising a first plurality of ladder steps; a second ladder module comprising a second plurality of ladder steps; and a ladder base, the modular ladder system is configurable in an unassembled configuration and an assembled configuration; wherein: in the unassembled configuration, the first ladder module is detached from the second ladder module and the first and second ladder modules are stacked on the ladder base; and in the assembled configuration, the first ladder module is coupled to the ladder base and the second ladder module is attached to the first ladder module opposite the ladder base to define a ladder extending upward from the ladder base.
Additionally, a method of assembling a modular ladder system is disclosed, the method comprising providing the modular ladder system in an unassembled configuration, the modular ladder system comprising a plurality of ladder modules stacked on a ladder base, the plurality of ladder modules comprising a first ladder module and a second ladder module each defining a first end and a second end opposite the first end; removing the second ladder module from the ladder base; coupling the first end of the first ladder module to the second end of the second ladder module to define a ladder, the ladder defining a first ladder end and a second ladder end opposite the first ladder end, the second end of the first ladder module defining the second ladder end and coupled to the ladder base; elevating the first ladder end of the ladder to orient the ladder at an angle relative to the ladder base; and engaging the first ladder end with an elevated support surface of an elevated structure.
Further disclosed is a base support assembly comprising a substantially vertical first support brace; a substantially vertical second support brace oriented substantially parallel to the first support brace; and a first cross member and a second cross member each extending between the first support brace and the second support brace, the first cross member crossing the second cross member to define an X-shaped cross member assembly; wherein: each of the first and second cross members are coupled to the first support brace by a first brace tensioning knob and coupled to the second support brace by a second brace tensioning knob; and each of the first brace tensioning knobs and second brace tensioning knobs are rotatable to tension the first and second cross members with the first support brace and the second support brace.
Also disclosed is a ladder module comprising a plurality of ladder steps; a pair of step rail segments, each of the plurality of ladder steps extending between the pair of step rail segments; and a pair of hand rail segments, each of the hand rail segments supported above and substantially parallel to a corresponding one of the pair of step rail segments; wherein: each of the hand rail segments is pivotably coupled to the corresponding one of the pair of step rail segments by a linkage; in a collapsed configuration, each of the hand rail segments is pivoted at the linkage towards the corresponding one of the step rail segments; and in an expanded configuration, each of the hand rail segments is pivoted at the linkage away from the corresponding one of the step rail segments.
Additionally, disclosed is a ladder base comprising a base frame configured to receive a plurality of ladder modules stacked thereon; a plurality of engagement feet coupled to the base frame and configured to support the base frame above a support surface; and a plurality of wheel assemblies each comprising a base wheel and configured to move between a disengaged position and an engaged position; wherein: in the engaged position, the plurality of engagement feet are disengaged from the support surface and each of the base wheels contact and roll across the support surface; and in the disengaged position, the each of the base wheels are disengaged from the support surface and the plurality of engagement feet engage the support surface.
Various implementations described in the present disclosure may include additional systems, methods, features, and advantages, which may not necessarily be expressly disclosed herein but will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings. It is intended that all such systems, methods, features, and advantages be included within the present disclosure and protected by the accompanying claims.
The features and components of the following figures are illustrated to emphasize the general principles of the present disclosure. Corresponding features and components throughout the figures may be designated by matching reference characters for the sake of consistency and clarity.
The present disclosure can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, and the previous and following description. However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, and, as such, can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.
The following description is provided as an enabling teaching of the present devices, systems, and/or methods in its best, currently known aspect. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects of the present devices, systems, and/or methods described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present disclosure. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present disclosure can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present disclosure without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present disclosure are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present disclosure. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present disclosure and not in limitation thereof.
As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “an element” can include two or more such elements unless the context indicates otherwise.
Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.
For purposes of the current disclosure, a material property or dimension measuring about X or substantially X on a particular measurement scale measures within a range between X plus an industry-standard upper tolerance for the specified measurement and X minus an industry-standard lower tolerance for the specified measurement. Because tolerances can vary between different materials, processes and between different models, the tolerance for a particular measurement of a particular component can fall within a range of tolerances.
As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance can or cannot occur, and that the description includes instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.
The word “or” as used herein means any one member of a particular list and also includes any combination of members of that list. Further, one should note that conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain aspects include, while other aspects do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more particular aspects or that one or more particular aspects necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular aspect.
Disclosed are components that can be used to perform the disclosed methods and systems. These and other components are disclosed herein, and it is understood that when combinations, subsets, interactions, groups, etc. of these components are disclosed that while specific reference of each various individual and collective combinations and permutations of these may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein, for all methods and systems. This applies to all aspects of this application including, but not limited to, steps in disclosed methods. Thus, if there are a variety of additional steps that can be performed it is understood that each of these additional steps can be performed with any specific aspect or combination of aspects of the disclosed methods.
Disclosed is a modular ladder system and associated methods, systems, devices, and various apparatus. Example aspects of the modular ladder system can comprise a first ladder module and a second ladder module. It would be understood by one of skill in the art that the modular ladder system is described in but a few exemplary embodiments among many. No particular terminology or description should be considered limiting on the disclosure or the scope of any claims issuing therefrom.
As described in further detail below, each of the ladder modules 110 can be disposed in an expanded configuration when the modular ladder system 100 is assembled, as shown in
Example aspects of the ladder 120 can comprise a step portion 122 and an upper support portion 132 supported above the step portion 122. The step portion 122 can comprise a pair of first step rails 124, a pair of second step rails 126, and a plurality of ladder steps 125 extending between the first step rails 124 and the second step rails 126. Each of the second step rails 126 can be vertically offset from and parallel to a corresponding one of the first step rails 124. In the present aspect, a corresponding pair of the first and second step rails 124, 126 can be disposed at a first ladder side 142 (e.g., a left side) of the ladder 120, and another corresponding pair of the first and second step rails 124, 126 can be disposed at a second ladder side 144 (e.g., a right side) of the ladder 120. Each of ladder steps 125 can extend laterally between the first ladder side 142 and the second ladder side 144. In other aspects, the step portion 122 can comprise the first step rails 124 only, and the ladder steps 125 can be affixed thereto. According to example aspects, the ladder steps 125 can be oriented about horizontally in the assembled configuration. A user can step on the ladder steps 125 as they ascend or descend the ladder 120. Furthermore, according to example aspects, the step portion 122 (e.g., the first step rails 124 and/or the second step rails 126) can be coupled to the ladder base 150 to secure the ladder 120 thereto in the assembled configuration.
The upper support portion 132 can comprise a pair of guard rails 134 and a pair of hand rails 136. Each of the hand rails 136 can be vertically offset from and about parallel to a corresponding one of the guard rails 134. Additionally, as shown, each of the guard rails 134 and the hand rails 136 can be about parallel with the first step rails 124 and the second step rails 126. In the present aspect, a corresponding pair of the guard rails 134 and hand rails 136 can be disposed at the first ladder side 142 of the ladder 120, and another corresponding pair of the guard rails 134 and hand rails 136 can be disposed at the second ladder side 144. Each of the guard rails 134 and the hand rails 136 can be supported over the step portion 122 of the ladder 120 by one or more linkages 140, as described in further detail below. According to example aspects, each of the guard rails 134 can be disposed between the step portion 122 and the corresponding hand rail 136, as shown. The guard rails 134 and the hand rails 136 can provide lateral support to a user as they ascend and descend the ladder 120 to prevent the user from falling over the first ladder side 142 and/or the second ladder side 144. The hand rails 136 can also provide stable gripping locations at both the first and second ladder sides 142, 144 for a user to grip as they ascend and descend the ladder 120.
The ladder base 150 can be configured to rest on and support the ladder 120 above the ground surface 160. Example aspects of the ladder base 150 can comprise a base frame 152, and a lower end 130 of the step portion 122 can engage the base frame 152 to affix the ladder 120 thereto. An upper end 128 of the step portion 122 opposite the lower end 130 can engage the elevated structure 180. In example aspects, the modular ladder system 100 can comprise a lift mechanism 170, which can lift the ladder 120 upward to orient the ladder 120 at a desired angle and elevation. Thus, the lift mechanism 170 can allow the angle and elevation of the ladder 120 to be adjusted to accommodate elevated structures 180 of varying heights. In some aspects, the lift mechanism 170 can be a pulley system 172 comprising a pulley 174. According to example aspects, each of the ladder modules 110 can first be assembled together to define the ladder 120, and then the pulley system 172 can raise the ladder 120 relative to the ladder base 150 to the desired angle and elevation. In some aspects, the ladder base 150 can further comprise a step platform 154 coupled to the base frame 152, and the step platform 154 can allow a user to step on to or off of the ladder base 150 when ascending or descending the ladder 120. Additionally, the ladder base 150 can comprise a substantially vertical base post 155 extending upward from some or all corner 153 of the base frame 152.
In some aspects, the ladder base 150 can be configured to roll, slide, glide, or otherwise move along the ground surface 160 to transport the modular ladder system 100 and/or to position the modular ladder system 100 at a desired location relative to the elevated structure 180. For example, in the present aspect, the ladder base 150 can comprise one or more wheel assemblies 156 configured to roll the ladder base 150 along the ground surface 160. Once in the desired position with the upper end 128 of the step portion 122 engaging the elevated structure 180, the ladder base 150 can be secured in place to prevent movement of the modular ladder system 100. In some aspects, each of the wheel assemblies 156 can be elevated to disengage the ground surface 160. In the present aspect, the wheel assemblies 156 can be disengaged from the ground surface 160, and engagement feet 158 of the ladder base 150 can contact the ground surface 160 to support the ladder base 150 thereon. In other aspects, the ladder base 150 can rest directly on the ground surface 160. Furthermore, in other aspects, the wheel assemblies 156 can comprise a braking system to arrest movement of the ladder base 150 on the ground surface 160.
Each of the ladder modules 110 can further comprise a pair of pair of hand rail segments 236 and a pair of guard rail segments 234. A corresponding pair of the hand rail segments 236 and guard rail segments 234 can be disposed at the first module side 242 of each ladder module 110, and another corresponding pair of the hand rail segments 236 and guard rail segments 234 can be disposed at the second module side 244 of each ladder module 110. When the modular ladder system 100 is assembled, the hand rail segments 236 of each ladder module 110 can be aligned with the corresponding hand rail segments 236 of the other ladder modules 110 to define the hand rails 136. Similarly, the guard rail segments 234 of each ladder module 110 can be aligned with the corresponding guard rail segments 234 of the other ladder modules 110 to define the guard rails 134 in the assembled configuration.
Thus, referring to the first module side 242 of the ladder modules 110, which can be a left side in the present aspect, each ladder module 110 can comprise a left first step rail segment 224a, a left second step rail segments 226a, a left guard rail segment 234a, and a left hand rail segment 236a. Each of the left first step rail segment 224a, left second step rail segments 226a, left guard rail segment 234a, and left hand rail segment 236a can be coupled to one another by at least one of the linkages 140. For example, in the present aspect, the corresponding left segments 224a, 226a, 324a, 326a can be coupled together by two of the linkages 140. However, in other aspects, the left segments 224a, 226a, 324a, 326a can be coupled together by more or fewer linkages 140. According to example aspects, each of the left segments 224a, 226a, 324a, 326a can be pivotably coupled to the corresponding linkages 140, such that the left segments 224a, 226a, 324a, 326a can rotate relative to the linkages 140. When the modular ladder system 100 is unassembled, each of the ladder modules 110 can be disposed in a collapsed configuration. In the collapsed configuration, each of the left segments 224a, 226a, 324a, 326a can be pivoted inward towards one another at the linkages 140 to substantially stack on top of one another, as shown. In the expanded configuration, as shown in
In some aspects, in the unassembled configuration, each of the independent ladder modules 110 can be stacked vertically on top of one another and can be supported on the ladder base 150 for easy transportation of the unassembled modular ladder system 100. To reconfigure the modular ladder system 100 from the unassembled configuration to the assembled configuration, each of the independent ladder modules 110 can be connected together in series to define the ladder 120 (shown in
In example aspects, any or all of the first step rail segments 224, second step rail segments 226, guard rail segments 234, and hand rail segments 236 can telescopingly engage the corresponding first step rail segments 224, second step rail segments 226, guard rail segments 234, and hand rail segments 236 of the adjacent ladder module(s) 110. For example, in a particular aspect, the first step rail segments 224 of each ladder module 110 can telescoping engage the first step rail segments 224 of the adjacent(s) ladder modules 110, and the second step rail segments 226 of each ladder module 110 can telescoping engage the second step rail segments 226 of the adjacent ladder module(s) 110. In some aspects, the guard rail segments 234 of each ladder module 110 can also telescoping engage the guard rail segments 234 of the adjacent ladder module(s) 110, and the hand rail segments 236 of each ladder module 110 can telescoping engage the hand rail segments 236 of the adjacent ladder module(s) 110.
Example aspects of the ladder 120 can comprise the step portion 122 and the upper support portion 132 supported above the step portion 122. The ladder steps 125 of the step portion 122 can be oriented about horizontally in the assembled configuration. A user can step on the ladder steps 125 as they ascend or descend the ladder 120. The guard rails 134 of the upper support portion 132 can be about parallel to the hand rails 136 of the upper support portion 132. The guard rails 134 and the hand rails 136 can be supported over the step portion 122 by the linkages 140. Each of the guard rails 134 can be disposed between the step portion 122 and the corresponding hand rail 136. The guard rails 134 and the hand rails 136 can provide lateral support to a user as they ascend and descend the ladder 120 to prevent the user from falling over the first ladder side 142 and/or the second ladder side 144. The hand rails 136 can provide stable gripping locations at both the first and second ladder sides 142, 144 for a user to grip as they ascend and descend the ladder 120.
The ladder 120 can define an elevated first ladder end 702 engaging the elevated structure 180 and an opposite second ladder end 704 coupled to the ladder base 150. The ladder base 150 can be configured to rest on and support the ladder 120 above the ground surface 160. Example aspects of the ladder base 150 can comprise the base frame 152. The lower end 130 of the step portion 122 can engage the base frame 152 to affix the ladder 120 thereto, and the upper end 128 of the step portion 122 opposite the lower end 130 can engage the elevated structure 180. According to example aspects, each of the ladder modules 110 can first be assembled together to define the ladder 120, and the first ladder end 702 can then be raised to orient the ladder 120 at the desired angle and elevation.
A cable tensioning system 770 can be provided for tensioning the ladder 120 in the assembled configuration. The cable tensioning system 770 can comprise at least one truss assembly 772 and at least one tensioning cable 774. In example aspects, the ladder base 150 can further comprise a base support assembly 710 configured to support the raised ladder 120 over the ladder base 150. The ladder base 150 can be configured to roll, slide, glide, or otherwise move along the ground surface 160 to transport the modular ladder system 100 and/or to position the modular ladder system 100 at a desired location relative to the elevated structure 180. For example, in the present aspect, the ladder base 150 can comprise a plurality of the wheel assemblies 156 configured to roll the ladder base 150 along the ground surface 160.
In example aspects, each of the ladder modules 110 can comprise the first step rail segments 224, the second step rail segments 226, and the ladder steps 125, as previously described. Each of the ladder steps 125 of the ladder module 110 can extend between the first step rail segments 224 and the second step rail segments 226. Each of the ladder modules 110 can further comprise the hand rail segments 236 and the guard rail segments 234, as previously described. At each of the first module side 242 and the second module side 244, the corresponding segments 224, 226, 324, 326 can be coupled together by the linkages 140. Each of the segments 224, 226, 324, 326 can be pivotably coupled to the corresponding linkage 140. In the collapsed configuration of each ladder module 110, each of the segments 224, 226, 324, 326 can be pivoted inward towards one another at the corresponding linkage 140 to substantially stack on top of one another, as shown. In the expanded configuration, shown in
In example aspects, in the unassembled configuration, each of the independent ladder modules 110 can be stacked vertically on top of one another and can be supported on the ladder base 150 for easy transportation of the unassembled modular ladder system 100. The ladder base can comprise the base frame 152, the vertical base posts 155, and the base support assembly 710. The substantially vertical base posts 155 can extend substantially upward from some or all of the corners 153 of the base frame 152. The base support assembly 710 can comprise one or more support braces 810 and one or more cross members 812 configured to support the ladder 120 (shown in
Example aspects of the ladder base 150 can also comprise one or more of the wheel assemblies 156. Each of the wheel assemblies 156 can comprise a wheel jack 820 and at least one base wheel 822 coupled to the wheel jack 820. The base wheel 822 can be configured to roll the ladder base 150 along the ground surface 160 (shown in
The modular ladder system 100 can also comprise the cable tensioning system 770 configured to tension the ladder 120 in the assembled configuration. In example aspects, the cable tensioning system 770 can comprise at least one of the tensioning cables 774 (shown in
To reconfigure the modular ladder system 100 from the unassembled configuration to the assembled configuration, each of the independent ladder modules 110 can be connected together in series to define the ladder 120, as previously described and as described in additional detail below. More of the ladder modules 110 can be assembled together to construct a longer ladder 120, while fewer of the ladder modules 110 can be assembled together to construct a shorter ladder 120.
Each of the ladder modules 110 (except for a bottom one of the ladder modules 110 stacked directly on the ladder base 150) can then be lifted away from the ladder base 150 and placed on the surrounding ground surface 160 (shown in
In example aspects, as shown, the wheel assemblies 156 can be disengaged from the ground surface 160 while performing the assembly steps of
Referring to
Each of the substantially vertical base posts 155 can define a post pin hole 1214 therethrough. Additionally, the second ladder module 110b can define a plurality of module pin holes 1216. In example aspects, each of the module pin holes 1216 can be formed through one of the first step rail segments 224 adjacent to the first linkage end 1210 of a corresponding one of the linkages 140. Each of module pin holes 1216 of the second ladder module 110b can be aligned with one of the post pin holes 1214 of a corresponding base post 155. The pull pin 1012 of each post fastener 1010 can be inserted through an aligned pair of the post pin holes 1214 and module pin holes 1216 to mount the second ladder module 110b to the base posts 155. In some aspects, the cotter pin 1014 (shown in
In some example aspects, each of the ladder steps 125 can be secured to the corresponding first step rail segments 224 and second step rail segments 226 by step carriage bolts 1316, as shown. Each of the first splice plates 1310 and second splice plate 1312 can be configured to stop against (and in some aspects, nest with) a corresponding front one of the step carriage bolts 1316. When stopped against the step carriage bolts 1316, a first exposed portion 1318 of each first splice plate 1310 can extend forward beyond the open first front end 1306 of the corresponding first step rail segment 224, and a second exposed portion 1320 of each second splice plates 1312 can extend forward beyond the open second front end 1308 of the corresponding second step rail segment 226. Each of the first and second splice plates 1310, 1312 can further be secured to the corresponding first and second step rail segments 224, 226, respectively, by a splice fastener 1322. In the present aspect, each of the splice fastener 1322 can comprise a splice carriage bolt 1324 and a nyloc nut 1326. However, in other aspects, the splice fastener 1322 can comprise any other suitable fastener or fastening technique known in the art.
Referring to
The ladder 120 can then be angled slighted upward from the ladder base 150 (for example, by lifting manually) to rest the first ladder end 702 of the ladder 120 on a support element 1510. More, specifically, the upper end 128 of the step portion 122 can be elevated and rested on the support element 1510. In example aspects, the first ladder module 110a can be pivotably coupled to the ladder base 150 at or near the rear base end 1130 to allow the ladder 120 to pivot upward from the ladder base 150. The support element 1510 can be a component of the elevated structure 180 (shown in
Referring now to
In some aspects, each of the first cable brackets 1612 can define a bracket slot 1710 and the hooked bracket end 1630, as illustrated. Each bracket slot 1710 can be configured to receive a bottom segment side 1714 of the corresponding first step rail segment 224 therein. The bracket fastener 1640 can then engage each of the first step rail segments 224, and each of the hooked bracket ends 1630 can be hooked onto the corresponding bracket fastener 1640. In the present aspect, the bracket fastener 1640 can comprise an additional one of the pull pins 1012 and an additional one of the cotter pins 1014, and the hooked bracket end 1630 can be hooked onto the pull pin 1012. In other aspects, each bracket fastener 1640 can comprise any other suitable type of fastener or fastening technique.
Each threaded knob 1812 and linkage carriage bolt 1814 can be removed from the corresponding linkages 140 to detach the linkages 140 from the second step rail segment 226 and allow the linkages 140 to be pivoted to the expanded configuration. Each linkage 140 can then be secured in the expanded configuration by receiving the corresponding linkage carriage bolt 1814 through a second rail opening 1820 in the corresponding second step rail segment 226 and through a second linkage opening or slot 1822 in the corresponding linkage 140 and engaging the linkage carriage bolt 1814 with the corresponding threaded knob 1812. In other aspects, each linkage fastener 1810 can comprise any other suitable type of fastener or fastening technique.
According to example aspects, one or more of the ladder modules 110 can further comprise a hoisting ring 1824 disposed at each of the first module side 242 and the second module side 244. The hoisting rings 1824 can be used in elevating the ladder 120 to engage the elevated structure 180, as described in further detail below with respect to
For example, in the present aspect, the first hand rail segment ends 1910 of the hand rail segments 236 of the first ladder module 110a can confront the second hand rail segment ends 1912 of the corresponding hand rail segments 236 of the second ladder module 110b. Similarly, the first hand rail segment ends 1910 of the hand rail segments 236 of the second ladder module 110b can confront the second hand rail segment ends 1912 of the corresponding hand rail segments 236 of the third ladder module 110c (shown in
In example aspects, splice cuffs 1918 can be provided for reinforcing and at least partially covering each of the hand rail splice points 1914 and the guard rail splice points 1916. Each of the splice cuffs 1918 can be substantially U-shaped and can be configured to slip over a top segment side 1920 or the bottom segment side 1714 of the corresponding hand rail segments 236 and guard rail segments 234. Each of the splice cuffs 1918 can be secured in place over the corresponding hand rail splice point 1914 or guard rail splice point 1916 by one or more cuff fasteners 1922. In the present aspect, each of the cuff fasteners 1922 can be a safety pin 1924 comprising a pin rod 1926 and a flexible pin lock 1928. In other aspects, each cuff fastener 1922 can comprise any other suitable type of fastener or fastening technique. In example aspects, first and second cuff fasteners 1922a,b can secure each of the splice cuffs 1918 at the corresponding hand rail splice point 1914 or guard rail splice point 1916. For example, the first cuff fastener 1922a can secure the splice cuff 1918 to the hand rail segment 236 or guard rail segment 234 at a first side 1924 of the corresponding splice point 1914, 1916, respectively, and the second cuff fastener 1922b can secure the splice cuff 1918 to the confronting hand rail segment 236 or guard rail segment 234 at a second side 1926 of the corresponding splice point.
Truss fasteners 2016 can be provided for securing the truss assemblies 772 to the first step rail segments 224 at the corresponding first rail splice point 2010. In the present aspect, each of the truss fasteners 2016 can comprise an additional one of the pull pins 1012 and an additional one of the cotter pins 1014 (shown in
According to example aspects, each of the truss assemblies 772 can further comprise a cable fastener 2020 for coupling the corresponding tensioning cable 774 to the truss assembly 772. In the present aspect, each of the cable fasteners 2020 can be another one of the safety pins 1924 comprising the pin rod 1926 and the flexible pin lock 1928. In other aspects, each cable fastener 2020 can comprise any other suitable type of fastener or fastening technique. Example aspects of the truss assembly 772 can comprise a truss front tab 2022 and a truss rear tab 2024. The cable fastener 2020 can extend between the trust front tab 2022 and the truss rear tab 2024 at a truss bottom end 2026 of the truss assembly 772. The cable fastener 2020 can be removed from the truss assembly 772, and the tensioning cable 774 can be inserted between the truss front tab 2022 and the truss rear tab 2024. The cable fastener 2020 can then be reattached to the truss assembly 772 at the truss bottom end 2026 to retain the tensioning cable 774 between the truss front tab 2022 and the truss rear tab 2024.
In a next step, the second cable bracket 1614 (shown in
Each of the support brackets 2110 can define a bracket base 2112 and a pair of first and second bracket arms 2114, 2116 extending from the bracket base 2112. A support slot 2118 can be defined between the first and second bracket arms 2114, 2116 and can be configured to receive the bottom segment side 1714 of the corresponding first step rail segment 224 therein. A support fastener 2120 can extend through each of the first and second bracket arms 2114, 2116 and the first step rail segment 224 therebetween to couple the support bracket 2110 to the first step rail segment 224. In example aspects, each of the support fastener 2120 can be another one of the of the safety pins 1924 comprising the pin rod 1926 and the flexible pin lock 1928. In other aspects, each cable fastener 2020 can comprise any other suitable type of fastener or fastening technique. In some aspects, each of the first and second bracket arms 2114, 2116 can define an arm hole 2122 therethrough, the first step rail segment 224 can define a rail hole 2124 therethrough, and the pin rod 1926 of the support fastener 2120 can engage each of the arm holes 2122 and the rail hole 2124 to secure the support bracket 2110 to the first step rail segment 224. According to example aspects, the support bracket 2110 can further define a base opening 2126 extending through the bracket base 2112, as described in further detail below.
Each of the support braces 810 can comprise a positioning fastener 2222 for selectively securing the inner brace tube 2214 to the outer brace tube 2212 in varying positions. In example aspects, the positioning fastener 2222 can be another one of the safety pins 1924 comprising the pin rod 1926 (shown in
Each of the support braces 810 can comprise one or more brace tensioning knobs 2226 coupled thereto by a tensioning carriage bolt 2228. For example, in the present aspect, each of the support braces 810 can define a first brace tensioning knob 2226a and a corresponding first tensioning carriage bolt 2228a, as well as a second brace tensioning knob 2226b and a corresponding second tensioning carriage bolt 2228b. Each of the cross members 812 can define a first member end 2230 and a second member end 2232 opposite the first member end 2230. A first coupling tab 2234 can be defined at each of the first member ends 2230, and a second coupling tab 2236 can be defined at each of the second member ends 2232. In example aspects, the first member end 2230 of each cross member 812 can be coupled to a corresponding one of the support braces 810 by the first brace tensioning knob 2226a and the first tensioning carriage bolt 2228a. Similarly, the second member end 2232 of each cross member 812 can be coupled to a corresponding one of the support braces 810 by the second brace tensioning knob 2226b and the second tensioning carriage bolt 2228b. Each of the cross members 812 can further define a nesting notch 2238 at about a midpoint 2240 between the first member end 2230 and the second member end 2232.
Each of the brace tensioning knobs 2226 can be rotated to tension the cross members 812 with the outer brace tubes 2212, as needed, as described below with respect to
Each of the support braces 810 can be coupled to a corresponding one of the support brackets 2110. As shown, each support brace 810 can define a rod opening 2314 therethrough for receiving the corresponding rod end portion 2312 of the support rod 2310. The rod opening 2314 can be formed through the inner brace tube 2214 proximate to the first brace end 2216 of the support brace 810. The rod end portion 2312 can extend through the rod opening 2314, and a rod fastener 2316 can be secured to support rod 2310 at a distal rod end 2318 thereof to retain the support brace 810 on the support rod 2310. In example aspects, the rod fastener 2316 can be another one of the cotter pins 1014. In other aspects, the rod fastener 2316 can comprise any other suitable fastener or fastening technique known in the art.
In example aspects, the attachment portion 2512 of the attachment bracket 2510 can comprise one or more attachment openings 2514 formed therethrough. An attachment fastener can extend through each of the attachment openings 2514 and can engage the elevated support surface 2420 of the elevated structure 180 to couple the attachment bracket 2510 to the elevated support surface 2420. The modular ladder assembly 100 can thereby be secured to the elevated structure 180. In example aspects, each of the attachment fasteners can be a wedge anchor, for example and without limitations. In other aspects, the attachment fasteners can be any other suitable fastener or fastening technique known in the art. Once the modular ladder assembly 100 is secured to the elevated structure 180, the wheel assemblies 156 (shown in
As shown, each brace mounting tab 2244 can hang from the outer brace tube 2212 at the second brace end 2218 of the corresponding support brace 810. The ladder base 150, and more specifically the base frame 152, can define a pair of mounting brackets 2610. Each of the brace mounting tabs 2244 can be coupled to a corresponding one of the mounting brackets 2610. For example, in the present aspect, each of the mounting brackets 2610 can comprise a pair of base mounting tabs 2612 extending from the base frame 152. The base mounting tabs 2612 can be substantially parallel with one another, as illustrated. Each of the base mounting tabs 2612 can define a base tab opening 2614 formed therethrough. Each of the brace mounting tabs 2244 can define a brace tab opening 2616 formed therethrough.
To attach each brace mounting tab 2244 to the corresponding mounting bracket 2610, the brace mounting tab 224 can be inserted between the corresponding base mounting tabs 2612. The length of the support brace 810 can be selectively adjusted as needed, as previously described, to allow the brace mounting tab 2244 to be positioned between the base mounting tabs 2612. The brace tab opening 2616 of the brace mounting tab 2244 can be aligned with the corresponding base tab openings 2614 of the base mounting tabs 2612. A mounting fastener 2618 can extend through each of the base tab openings 2614 and the brace tab opening 2616 to secure the brace mounting tab 2244 to the mounting bracket 2610. In the present aspect, the mounting fastener 2618 can comprise an additional one of the pull pins 1012 and an additional one of the cotter pins 1014. In other aspects, the mounting fastener 2618 can comprise any other suitable fastener or fastening technique known in the art. Once the support brace 810 is secured to the ladder base 150, the tensioning plate 2242 can be rotated to bias the tensioning plate 2242 against the second brace end 2218 of the support brace 810, thereby tensioning the corresponding support brace 810 between the ladder base 150 and second ladder module 110b, as needed.
The first threaded bolt 2710 can be coupled to the second cable end 1618 of the tensioning cable 774 and can engage the threaded bore at a first handle end 2720 of the tensioning handle 2714. The second threaded bolt 2712 can be coupled to the second cable bracket 1614 and can engage the threaded bore at an opposite second handle end 2722 of the tensioning handle 2714. The tensioning handle 2714 can thereby be disposed between and can rotatably engage each of the first and second threaded bolts 2710, 2712. To tension the tensioning cable 774, the tensioning handle 2714 can be rotated to thread each of the first and second threaded bolts 2710, 2712 deeper into the threaded bore. Tensioning the tensioning cable 774, which extends between the first ladder module 110a and the third ladder module 110c, can ensure that ladder modules 110 are properly tensioned.
Furthermore, the nesting notches 2238 of the cross members 812 can nest with one another when the cross members 812 are mounted to the support braces 810 to define an X-shaped cross member assembly 2810. The nesting notches 2238 can aid in prohibiting movement of the cross members 812. In some aspects, the cross members 812 can further be affixed to one another at the nesting notches 2238. For example, a cross member hole 2812 can be defined through each of the cross members 812 at the corresponding nesting notch 2238. A cross member fastener 2814 can engage each of the cross member holes 2812 to secure the cross members 812 together. In the present aspect, the cross member fastener 2814 can be another one of the safety pins 1924 comprising the pin rod 1926 and the flexible pin lock 1928. In other aspects, the cross member fastener 2814 can comprise any other suitable type of fastener or fastening technique.
In some aspects, the modular ladder system 110 may comprise only one of the ladder modules 110, which can be utilized separate from the ladder base 150. In such aspects, the second ladder end 704 may be configured to rest on the ground surface 160. In example aspects, a modular ladder system 100 comprising one of the ladder modules 110 and oriented at approximately 50° relative to the ground surface 160 can define a height of about 8.5′ and a width of about 7.5′. In the present aspect, the width can be measured horizontally from the first ladder end 702 to the second ladder end 704. All of the dimensions disclosed herein are merely exemplary and should not be construed as limiting.
In some aspects, the modular ladder system 110 may comprise only one of the ladder modules 110, which can be utilized separate from the ladder base 150. In such aspects, the second ladder end 704 may be configured to rest on the ground surface 160. In example aspects, a modular ladder system 100 comprising one of the ladder modules 110 and oriented at approximately 30° relative to the ground surface 160 can define a height of about 6′ and a width of about 10′. In the present aspect, the width can be measured horizontally from the first ladder end 702 to the second ladder end 704. All of the dimensions disclosed herein are merely exemplary and should not be construed as limiting.
One should note that conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, while other embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more particular embodiments or that one or more particular embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment.
It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Any process descriptions or blocks in flow diagrams should be understood as representing modules, segments, or portions of code which include one or more executable instructions for implementing specific logical functions or steps in the process, and alternate implementations are included in which functions may not be included or executed at all, may be executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved, as would be understood by those reasonably skilled in the art of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiment(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. Further, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover any and all combinations and sub-combinations of all elements, features, and aspects discussed above. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by the present disclosure.
The present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 18/097,869, filed Jan. 17, 2023, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/300,564, filed Jan. 18, 2022, each of which is hereby specifically incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
Number | Date | Country | |
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63300564 | Jan 2022 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | 18097869 | Jan 2023 | US |
Child | 18542432 | US |