CA2234303C - Ladder anchor - Google Patents
Ladder anchor Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2234303C CA2234303C CA 2234303 CA2234303A CA2234303C CA 2234303 C CA2234303 C CA 2234303C CA 2234303 CA2234303 CA 2234303 CA 2234303 A CA2234303 A CA 2234303A CA 2234303 C CA2234303 C CA 2234303C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- ladder
- anchor
- ground
- spike
- attachment means
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06C—LADDERS
- E06C7/00—Component parts, supporting parts, or accessories
- E06C7/42—Ladder feet; Supports therefor
- E06C7/46—Non-skid equipment
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Ladders (AREA)
Abstract
A ladder anchor for stabilizing a ladder relative to the ground includes a pair of hooks attached to the lower rungs of a ladder, and a plurality of spikes extending below the base of the ladder for insertion into the ground. The spikes are arranged in parallel and lie in a common plane with the ladder when the ladder anchor is attached to the ladder. The hooks are attachable to the ladder by way of brackets, which are adjustable in length.
The ladder anchor holds the ladder in place when it is being used. The ladder anchor thus forms a rigid support between the ladder anchor the ground, preventing the base of the ladder from sliding or slipping relative to the ground. The ladder anchor also helps to prevent the ladder from tipping backwards away from an object against which the ladder is leaning.
The ladder anchor holds the ladder in place when it is being used. The ladder anchor thus forms a rigid support between the ladder anchor the ground, preventing the base of the ladder from sliding or slipping relative to the ground. The ladder anchor also helps to prevent the ladder from tipping backwards away from an object against which the ladder is leaning.
Description
LADDER ANCHOR
Field of Invention The present invention relates to a ladder anchor for stabilizing a ladder relative to the ground. More particularly, the invention relates to a ladde r anchor insertable into the ground to prevent a ladder from sliding on the ground surface or from tipping backwards.
Background of the Invention Cliwbing a ladder is a dangerous task nevertheless required of some people as part o:f their duties. For example, roofers, painters, window cleaners, chimney sweeps, carpenters and brick layers a:re all required by their occupations to climb ladders . In addition, homeowners who use ladders and who also may be less experienced than professionals, may be exposed to even more risk.
By its mere use, a ladder is a potentially dangerous tool and can lead to serious accidents. The unstable nature of ladder;
usually requires the use of a helper to hold the base of the ladder while a worker climbs to the top in order to accomplish the required work. The helper's job is usually to prevent the=_ ladder from slipping away from or tipping backwards away from an object (ouch as a house) upon which the ladder is leaning. Thi;
method, although fairly safe, requires the use of an extra person at all times at the base of the ladder, and may therefore not be an effective use of resources. In addition, the use of a helper for any period of time leaves the worker susceptible to human error. In some circumstances, a ladder needs to be positioned with the top portion resting along the slope of a roof, causing the laddE=r to be at a relatively shallow angle in relation to the ground. This situation decreases further the low stability of the ladder and creates an unsafe situation for the worker:
involved. The use of a helper in this particular situation may be ineffective or inadequate, as the helper may not be able to support the base of the ladder effectively. Another situatiOTl where the base of a ladder is particularly unstable is when a ladder is leaning against the edge of a roof and extends well above the edge of the roof. A person climbing onto the ladder_ from the roof may climb onto the portion of the ladder extending above tree roof, thereby making the base of the ladder morE=_ unstable relative to the ground.
Devices in the prior art have been used to help support or anchor a ladder. For example, United States Patent No. 5,054,579 uses stakes that are driven into the ground and which engage the base of <~ ladder (either the rung, the rails or flanges attached to the r~~ils) , thus apparently helping to prevent movement of the ladder. However, this device, although providing some anchoring forces, would not prevent: the ladder from sliding if sufficient horizontal force acted on the base of the ladder to loosen the stakes' hold into the ground. If enough force is exerted on the stakes towards the outside portion of the ladder (i.e. the outside :being the portion facing away from the object supporting the ladder), the stake inserted into the ground would have an inside rotation in relation to the ladder, causing the stake to release the base of the ladder and allowing it to slide. This occurrence greatly decreases the safety of this particular device.
Another example of a ladder support is disclosed in United States Patent No. 4,576,250. This device also includes stakes driven into the ground which are designed to stop the base of <~
ladder from sliding. The stakes are inserted into the ground in front of a ladder such that two arm members on each stake are adapted to fit about the ladder legs. In this position, the stakes prevent the legs from sliding out of position, thereby helping to keep the ladder upright. However, as with the '579 patent, the stakes could be loosened if enough force is exerted, and would therefore be ineffective in preventing the ladder frorn sliding. This is another situation where enough horizontal force to the outside would result in inside rotation of the stakes in relation to the ladder, thereby leading to a loss of all support.
and sliding of the ladder. In addition, the stakes are cumbersome in such a position, and could cause someone to trip. This could result i:n serious accidents and could loosen the stakes from the ground, thereby rendering the device even less effective. As <~
further :note, this device would not prevent the ladder legs from rotating towards the inside of the ladder position. The legs could easily dig into soft material if enough force was exerted and would thus cause the ladder to swing from its support and fall. This is important when the worker accidently knocks the top portion of the ladder off its support, knocking it to the ground.
Canadian laid-open patent application Serial No. 2,155,63'7 discloses another example of a ladder support. This inventiOTl describes two sand bags into which the ladder legs can be inserted. The openings in the sand bags where the legs are to be=_ inserted are covered with a rubber diaphragm. The diaphragms distribute the weight of t=he ladder from the legs to the sand and further onto the outer shell of the bags containing the sand.
The device thus distributes the force from the ladder onto a greater surface area. The added weight from the sand helps in supporting the base of the ladder and is intended to prevent the ladder from sliding. However, enough force could easily be exerted onto the ladder to cause the sand bags to slide along the ground. In addition, this device offers no support against the ladder tilting backwards. This device is also cumbersome and bulky, and therefore difficult to store or transport.
Some other methods used to help prevent a ladder from sliding exist, including improved feet on the base of the ladder which increase friction between the ground and the ladder. Tying the top portion of the ladder onto a solid object is another method used; however, this may not prevent the base of the ladder from sli~3ing. Some workers use a car or truck parked against the ladder t~e prevent the ladder from sliding; this method cannot bf=_ used in every situation as some terrain and areas area inaccessible with a vehicle.
Summary of the Invention An object of the present invention is to provide a ladder anchor for stabilizing a. ladder in relation to the ground in order to prevent the base of the ladder from sliding.
A further obj ect of the invention is to provide a ladder_ anchor for stabilizing a. ladder in relation to the ground in order to prevent the ladder from tipping backwards.
The invention relates to a ladder anchor. The ladder anchor_ has at least one spike that attaches to a ladder such that when the ladder is in use, the spike sticks into the ground. The spike is attached to the :Ladder in such a way that if the base o:E
the ladder is being urged to slide along the ground away from an object against which the ladder is leaning (such as a house) , the spike maintains its position relative to the ladder, i.e. the part of the spike that is sticking into the ground does noi~
rotate towards the side of the ladder facing the object against which the ladder is leaning.
According to the invention, there is provided a ladder_ anchor for securing a ladder to the ground, the ladder defining a plane, and the ladder having a lower rung and a plurality of upper rungs, a lower end which rests on the ground when the ladder i;~ in use, an outside that faces a user of the ladder when the ladder is in use, and an inside that faces an object upon which thcs ladder rests when in use, the ladder anchor comprising a spike :having a penetrating end for insertion into the ground;
and attachment means for securing the spike to the ladder such that the penetrating end of the spike extends below the lower end of the ladder, and such that the penetrating end of the spike is restricted from rotating toward the inside of the ladder.
According to the invention, there is further provided a ladder anchor for securing a ladder to the ground, the ladder defining a plane, and the ladder having a lower rung and a plurality of upper rungs, a lower end which rests on the ground when the ladder is in use, an outside that faces a user of the ladder when the ladder is in use, and an inside that faces an object upon which the ladder rests when in use, the ladder anchor comprising: a rigid base; a plurality of parallel, spaced apart, co-planar spikes rigidly attached to the base, each spike having a penetrating end for insertion into the ground; and attachmenl~
means for securing the base to the ladder such that the penetrating ends of the spikes extend below the lower end of the ladder, and such that the penetrating ends of the spikes are restricted from rotating toward the inside of the ladder.
Advantages of the present invention include: stabilizing <~
ladder in relation to the ground in order to prevent the base of the ladder from sliding; stabilizing a ladder in relation to the ground in order to prevent the ladder from tipping backwards;
ease of 'use; simplicity; low manufacturing costs.
Other advantages, objects and features of the present.
invention will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.
from a review of the following detailed description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims.
Brief Description of the Drawing The embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawing, Figure 1, which is <~
perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.
Detailed Description of the Invention Referring to Figure l, there is illustrated a ladder anchor 1 for stabilizing a ladder 2 relative to the ground. The ladder anchor 1 includes a plurality of spikes 10 for insertion into the ground, a beam member 20, and a pair of hooks 5 which attach to the ladder 2.
The spikes 10 include two L-shaped spikes 40 (which are L-shaped in cross-section), rigidly attached to the ends of the=_ beam member 20, and a pair. of flat spikes 45, rigidly attached to the beam member 20 between the two L-shaped spikes 40. The advantage of the L-shaped spikes 40 is increased strength, thus enhancin~3 the stability of the ladder 2 relative to the ground.
The spikes 10 are paral=Lel to one another and arranged in a plane . When the ladder anchor 1 is attached to the ladder 2 , the spikes 10 are coplanar with the ladder 2. Embodiments of the' invention may include any number of spikes 10: as few as one spike could be used, or as many others as seems justified could be used. The spikes in alternative embodiments may or may not be coplanar, but should usually be parallel.
The spikes 10 are rigidly and perpendicularly attached to the beam member 20. The beam member 20 is rigidly and perpendicularly attached to the hooks 5. Each hook 5 includes a fixed elongate section 15 and an adjustable elongate section 16.
Each fixed elongate section 15 is attached to the beam member 20.
Each adjustable elongate section 16 is attached to it:~
corresponding fixed elongate section 15 by way of bolts 30 which pass through holes 35. By selecting the holes 35 through which the bolts 30 will pass, the length of the hooks 5 is adjustable.
The fixed elongate sections 15 and adjustable elongate sections 16 extend parallel to and are coplanar with the spikes 10.
Each hook 5 also includes a curved section 25 adapted to hook over a ladder rung. In operation, each curved section 25 extends from its corresponding adjustable elongate section 16,.
over the top of the second rung from the bottom 50, and back down past the second rung from the bottom 50 such that the free end oi=
the curved section 25 is parallel to the adjustable elongate sections 16. As the hooks 5 are adjustable in length, they can be attached securely to the second rung from the bottom 50 of a ladder 2 of any size. The curved sections 25 are preferably attached to the second rung from the bottom 50 of the ladder 2, as shown in Figure 1, but could also be attached to the parallel side rails 60 of the ladder 2, or to a higher rung.
By .attaching the curved sections 25 to the second rung from the bottom 50, the fixed elongate section 15 and/or the adjustable elongate sections 16 rest against the first rung from the bottom 55. The ladder anchor 1 is therefore prevented from having inside rotation, that is, rotation towards the object.
against 'which the ladder 2 is leaning. Because there can be no inside rotation of the ladder anchor 1, the base of the ladder 80 would only be capable of sliding if the spikes 10 were to 'plow' horizontally through the ground. Thus, effective support for the ladder 2 is provided by preventing movement of the bottom of the=_ ladder 2 away from the object supporting the ladder 2. Assuming that the ground is reasonably firm, the ladder anchor 1 makes its virtually impossible for the ladder 2 to slide on the ground.
The ladder anchor 1 also makes it more difficult to tip the ladder 2 backwards, i.e. rotate the ladder 2 about its base away from the object against which the ladder 2 is leaning.
Optional brackets 27 can be hooked over the first rung frorn the bottom 55. By so attaching the brackets 27 to the ladder 2, the ladder anchor 1 is prevented from outside rotation (i.e.
rotation of the spikes 10 relative to the ladder 2 in the direction of arrow 75), as well as being prevented from inside rotation (i.e. rotation of the spikes 10 relative to the ladder 2 in the direction of arrow 70). This embodiment therefore prevents sliding of the base of the ladder 2 away from or towards the object against which the ladder is leaning, and helps to prevent the top of the ladder 2 from swinging away from the object against which it is leaning. Also, the optional brackets 27 or the curved sections 25 may be securely attached to their respective rungs to prevent the brackets 27 or curved sections 25 from becoming disengaged from their respective rung~~
should t:he ladder 2 move downwards relative to the ladder_ anchor 1.
In order to use the ladder anchor 1 for stabilizing the ladder 2 relative to the ground, the spikes 10 are pushed into the ground so that the ladder anchor 1 is angled towards the object against which the ladder 2 will lean. The ground conditions are an important factor in using the ladder anchor 1.
If ground conditions are too soft or too hard, the device will not be as effective. Various spike lengths and designs will help in providing proper support in different ground conditions. The ladder 2 is then placed such that the fixed elongate sections 15 and the adjustable elongate sections 16 rest on the bottom two ladder rungs. The spikes 10 are then inserted further into the ground (making sure that the spikes 10 are coplanar with the ladder 2) until the curved sections 25 engage the second rung from the bottom 50, and the brackets 27 engage the first rung from the bottom 55. Alternatively, the ladder 2 can be placed in position before the spikes 10 are inserted into the ground. The result i.s a sturdy connection between the ladder 2 and the ground, whereby the spikes 10 are unable to rotate to the insidE~
or outside relative to the ladder 2. The base of the ladder 2 is stabilized, supported and prevented from sliding. To remove the ladder anchor 1, the spikes 10 are simply retrieved from the ground b:y pulling the ladder anchor 1 away from the ground.
Although the ladder anchor 1 is specifically designed for use with straight ladders, embodiments of the invention could be used with step ladders.
Numerous modifications, variations and adaptations may be made to the particular embodiments of the invention described above without departing from the scope of the invention, which i~~
defined :in the claims.
Field of Invention The present invention relates to a ladder anchor for stabilizing a ladder relative to the ground. More particularly, the invention relates to a ladde r anchor insertable into the ground to prevent a ladder from sliding on the ground surface or from tipping backwards.
Background of the Invention Cliwbing a ladder is a dangerous task nevertheless required of some people as part o:f their duties. For example, roofers, painters, window cleaners, chimney sweeps, carpenters and brick layers a:re all required by their occupations to climb ladders . In addition, homeowners who use ladders and who also may be less experienced than professionals, may be exposed to even more risk.
By its mere use, a ladder is a potentially dangerous tool and can lead to serious accidents. The unstable nature of ladder;
usually requires the use of a helper to hold the base of the ladder while a worker climbs to the top in order to accomplish the required work. The helper's job is usually to prevent the=_ ladder from slipping away from or tipping backwards away from an object (ouch as a house) upon which the ladder is leaning. Thi;
method, although fairly safe, requires the use of an extra person at all times at the base of the ladder, and may therefore not be an effective use of resources. In addition, the use of a helper for any period of time leaves the worker susceptible to human error. In some circumstances, a ladder needs to be positioned with the top portion resting along the slope of a roof, causing the laddE=r to be at a relatively shallow angle in relation to the ground. This situation decreases further the low stability of the ladder and creates an unsafe situation for the worker:
involved. The use of a helper in this particular situation may be ineffective or inadequate, as the helper may not be able to support the base of the ladder effectively. Another situatiOTl where the base of a ladder is particularly unstable is when a ladder is leaning against the edge of a roof and extends well above the edge of the roof. A person climbing onto the ladder_ from the roof may climb onto the portion of the ladder extending above tree roof, thereby making the base of the ladder morE=_ unstable relative to the ground.
Devices in the prior art have been used to help support or anchor a ladder. For example, United States Patent No. 5,054,579 uses stakes that are driven into the ground and which engage the base of <~ ladder (either the rung, the rails or flanges attached to the r~~ils) , thus apparently helping to prevent movement of the ladder. However, this device, although providing some anchoring forces, would not prevent: the ladder from sliding if sufficient horizontal force acted on the base of the ladder to loosen the stakes' hold into the ground. If enough force is exerted on the stakes towards the outside portion of the ladder (i.e. the outside :being the portion facing away from the object supporting the ladder), the stake inserted into the ground would have an inside rotation in relation to the ladder, causing the stake to release the base of the ladder and allowing it to slide. This occurrence greatly decreases the safety of this particular device.
Another example of a ladder support is disclosed in United States Patent No. 4,576,250. This device also includes stakes driven into the ground which are designed to stop the base of <~
ladder from sliding. The stakes are inserted into the ground in front of a ladder such that two arm members on each stake are adapted to fit about the ladder legs. In this position, the stakes prevent the legs from sliding out of position, thereby helping to keep the ladder upright. However, as with the '579 patent, the stakes could be loosened if enough force is exerted, and would therefore be ineffective in preventing the ladder frorn sliding. This is another situation where enough horizontal force to the outside would result in inside rotation of the stakes in relation to the ladder, thereby leading to a loss of all support.
and sliding of the ladder. In addition, the stakes are cumbersome in such a position, and could cause someone to trip. This could result i:n serious accidents and could loosen the stakes from the ground, thereby rendering the device even less effective. As <~
further :note, this device would not prevent the ladder legs from rotating towards the inside of the ladder position. The legs could easily dig into soft material if enough force was exerted and would thus cause the ladder to swing from its support and fall. This is important when the worker accidently knocks the top portion of the ladder off its support, knocking it to the ground.
Canadian laid-open patent application Serial No. 2,155,63'7 discloses another example of a ladder support. This inventiOTl describes two sand bags into which the ladder legs can be inserted. The openings in the sand bags where the legs are to be=_ inserted are covered with a rubber diaphragm. The diaphragms distribute the weight of t=he ladder from the legs to the sand and further onto the outer shell of the bags containing the sand.
The device thus distributes the force from the ladder onto a greater surface area. The added weight from the sand helps in supporting the base of the ladder and is intended to prevent the ladder from sliding. However, enough force could easily be exerted onto the ladder to cause the sand bags to slide along the ground. In addition, this device offers no support against the ladder tilting backwards. This device is also cumbersome and bulky, and therefore difficult to store or transport.
Some other methods used to help prevent a ladder from sliding exist, including improved feet on the base of the ladder which increase friction between the ground and the ladder. Tying the top portion of the ladder onto a solid object is another method used; however, this may not prevent the base of the ladder from sli~3ing. Some workers use a car or truck parked against the ladder t~e prevent the ladder from sliding; this method cannot bf=_ used in every situation as some terrain and areas area inaccessible with a vehicle.
Summary of the Invention An object of the present invention is to provide a ladder anchor for stabilizing a. ladder in relation to the ground in order to prevent the base of the ladder from sliding.
A further obj ect of the invention is to provide a ladder_ anchor for stabilizing a. ladder in relation to the ground in order to prevent the ladder from tipping backwards.
The invention relates to a ladder anchor. The ladder anchor_ has at least one spike that attaches to a ladder such that when the ladder is in use, the spike sticks into the ground. The spike is attached to the :Ladder in such a way that if the base o:E
the ladder is being urged to slide along the ground away from an object against which the ladder is leaning (such as a house) , the spike maintains its position relative to the ladder, i.e. the part of the spike that is sticking into the ground does noi~
rotate towards the side of the ladder facing the object against which the ladder is leaning.
According to the invention, there is provided a ladder_ anchor for securing a ladder to the ground, the ladder defining a plane, and the ladder having a lower rung and a plurality of upper rungs, a lower end which rests on the ground when the ladder i;~ in use, an outside that faces a user of the ladder when the ladder is in use, and an inside that faces an object upon which thcs ladder rests when in use, the ladder anchor comprising a spike :having a penetrating end for insertion into the ground;
and attachment means for securing the spike to the ladder such that the penetrating end of the spike extends below the lower end of the ladder, and such that the penetrating end of the spike is restricted from rotating toward the inside of the ladder.
According to the invention, there is further provided a ladder anchor for securing a ladder to the ground, the ladder defining a plane, and the ladder having a lower rung and a plurality of upper rungs, a lower end which rests on the ground when the ladder is in use, an outside that faces a user of the ladder when the ladder is in use, and an inside that faces an object upon which the ladder rests when in use, the ladder anchor comprising: a rigid base; a plurality of parallel, spaced apart, co-planar spikes rigidly attached to the base, each spike having a penetrating end for insertion into the ground; and attachmenl~
means for securing the base to the ladder such that the penetrating ends of the spikes extend below the lower end of the ladder, and such that the penetrating ends of the spikes are restricted from rotating toward the inside of the ladder.
Advantages of the present invention include: stabilizing <~
ladder in relation to the ground in order to prevent the base of the ladder from sliding; stabilizing a ladder in relation to the ground in order to prevent the ladder from tipping backwards;
ease of 'use; simplicity; low manufacturing costs.
Other advantages, objects and features of the present.
invention will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.
from a review of the following detailed description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and claims.
Brief Description of the Drawing The embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawing, Figure 1, which is <~
perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention.
Detailed Description of the Invention Referring to Figure l, there is illustrated a ladder anchor 1 for stabilizing a ladder 2 relative to the ground. The ladder anchor 1 includes a plurality of spikes 10 for insertion into the ground, a beam member 20, and a pair of hooks 5 which attach to the ladder 2.
The spikes 10 include two L-shaped spikes 40 (which are L-shaped in cross-section), rigidly attached to the ends of the=_ beam member 20, and a pair. of flat spikes 45, rigidly attached to the beam member 20 between the two L-shaped spikes 40. The advantage of the L-shaped spikes 40 is increased strength, thus enhancin~3 the stability of the ladder 2 relative to the ground.
The spikes 10 are paral=Lel to one another and arranged in a plane . When the ladder anchor 1 is attached to the ladder 2 , the spikes 10 are coplanar with the ladder 2. Embodiments of the' invention may include any number of spikes 10: as few as one spike could be used, or as many others as seems justified could be used. The spikes in alternative embodiments may or may not be coplanar, but should usually be parallel.
The spikes 10 are rigidly and perpendicularly attached to the beam member 20. The beam member 20 is rigidly and perpendicularly attached to the hooks 5. Each hook 5 includes a fixed elongate section 15 and an adjustable elongate section 16.
Each fixed elongate section 15 is attached to the beam member 20.
Each adjustable elongate section 16 is attached to it:~
corresponding fixed elongate section 15 by way of bolts 30 which pass through holes 35. By selecting the holes 35 through which the bolts 30 will pass, the length of the hooks 5 is adjustable.
The fixed elongate sections 15 and adjustable elongate sections 16 extend parallel to and are coplanar with the spikes 10.
Each hook 5 also includes a curved section 25 adapted to hook over a ladder rung. In operation, each curved section 25 extends from its corresponding adjustable elongate section 16,.
over the top of the second rung from the bottom 50, and back down past the second rung from the bottom 50 such that the free end oi=
the curved section 25 is parallel to the adjustable elongate sections 16. As the hooks 5 are adjustable in length, they can be attached securely to the second rung from the bottom 50 of a ladder 2 of any size. The curved sections 25 are preferably attached to the second rung from the bottom 50 of the ladder 2, as shown in Figure 1, but could also be attached to the parallel side rails 60 of the ladder 2, or to a higher rung.
By .attaching the curved sections 25 to the second rung from the bottom 50, the fixed elongate section 15 and/or the adjustable elongate sections 16 rest against the first rung from the bottom 55. The ladder anchor 1 is therefore prevented from having inside rotation, that is, rotation towards the object.
against 'which the ladder 2 is leaning. Because there can be no inside rotation of the ladder anchor 1, the base of the ladder 80 would only be capable of sliding if the spikes 10 were to 'plow' horizontally through the ground. Thus, effective support for the ladder 2 is provided by preventing movement of the bottom of the=_ ladder 2 away from the object supporting the ladder 2. Assuming that the ground is reasonably firm, the ladder anchor 1 makes its virtually impossible for the ladder 2 to slide on the ground.
The ladder anchor 1 also makes it more difficult to tip the ladder 2 backwards, i.e. rotate the ladder 2 about its base away from the object against which the ladder 2 is leaning.
Optional brackets 27 can be hooked over the first rung frorn the bottom 55. By so attaching the brackets 27 to the ladder 2, the ladder anchor 1 is prevented from outside rotation (i.e.
rotation of the spikes 10 relative to the ladder 2 in the direction of arrow 75), as well as being prevented from inside rotation (i.e. rotation of the spikes 10 relative to the ladder 2 in the direction of arrow 70). This embodiment therefore prevents sliding of the base of the ladder 2 away from or towards the object against which the ladder is leaning, and helps to prevent the top of the ladder 2 from swinging away from the object against which it is leaning. Also, the optional brackets 27 or the curved sections 25 may be securely attached to their respective rungs to prevent the brackets 27 or curved sections 25 from becoming disengaged from their respective rung~~
should t:he ladder 2 move downwards relative to the ladder_ anchor 1.
In order to use the ladder anchor 1 for stabilizing the ladder 2 relative to the ground, the spikes 10 are pushed into the ground so that the ladder anchor 1 is angled towards the object against which the ladder 2 will lean. The ground conditions are an important factor in using the ladder anchor 1.
If ground conditions are too soft or too hard, the device will not be as effective. Various spike lengths and designs will help in providing proper support in different ground conditions. The ladder 2 is then placed such that the fixed elongate sections 15 and the adjustable elongate sections 16 rest on the bottom two ladder rungs. The spikes 10 are then inserted further into the ground (making sure that the spikes 10 are coplanar with the ladder 2) until the curved sections 25 engage the second rung from the bottom 50, and the brackets 27 engage the first rung from the bottom 55. Alternatively, the ladder 2 can be placed in position before the spikes 10 are inserted into the ground. The result i.s a sturdy connection between the ladder 2 and the ground, whereby the spikes 10 are unable to rotate to the insidE~
or outside relative to the ladder 2. The base of the ladder 2 is stabilized, supported and prevented from sliding. To remove the ladder anchor 1, the spikes 10 are simply retrieved from the ground b:y pulling the ladder anchor 1 away from the ground.
Although the ladder anchor 1 is specifically designed for use with straight ladders, embodiments of the invention could be used with step ladders.
Numerous modifications, variations and adaptations may be made to the particular embodiments of the invention described above without departing from the scope of the invention, which i~~
defined :in the claims.
Claims (17)
1. A ladder anchor for securing a ladder to the ground, the ladder defining a plane, and the ladder having a lower rung and a plurality of upper rung, a lower end which rests on the ground when the ladder is in use, an outside that faces a user of the ladder when the ladder is in use, and an inside that faces an object upon which the ladder rests when in use, the ladder anchor comprising a spike having a penetrating end for insertion into the ground; and attachment means for. securing the spike to the ladder such that the penetrating end of the spike extends below the lower end of the ladder, and such that the penetrating end of the spike is restricted from rotating toward the inside of the ladder.
2. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 1, wherein the attachment means further restricts the penetrating end of the spike from rotating toward the outside of the ladder.
3. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 2, wherein the attachment means restricts the spike to the plane of the ladder.
4. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 1, wherein the attachment means is removable from the ladder.
5. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 4, wherein the attachment means comprises at least one hook, the hook having a first curved section and a straight section having two ends, one end of the straight section joining the first curved section, and the other end of the straight section being attached to the spike, the arrangement being such that when the ladder anchor faces the outside of the ladder and the first curved section is hooked over an upper rung of the ladder, the straight section contacts the lower rung of the ladder to restrict the penetrating end of the spike from rotating toward the inside of the ladder.
6. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 5, wherein the straight section is adjustable in length.
7. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 5, wherein the hook further comprises a second curved section attached to the straight section for hooking over the lower rung of the ladder to restrict the penetrating end of the spike from rotating toward the outside of the ladder.
8. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 5, wherein the attachment means comprises two identical, parallel, spaced apart hooks.
9. A ladder anchor for securing a ladder to the ground, the ladder defining a plane, and the ladder having a lower rung and a plurality of upper rungs, a lower end which rests on the ground when the ladder is in use, an outside that faces a user of the ladder when the ladder is in use, and an inside that faces an object upon which the ladder rests when in use, the ladder anchor comprising:
a rigid base;
a plurality of parallel, spaced apart, co-planar spikes rigidly attached to the base, each spike having a penetrating end for insertion into the ground; and attachment means for securing the base to the ladder such that the penetrating ends of the spikes extend below the lower end of the ladder, and such that the penetrating ends of the spikes are restricted from rotating toward the inside of the ladder.
a rigid base;
a plurality of parallel, spaced apart, co-planar spikes rigidly attached to the base, each spike having a penetrating end for insertion into the ground; and attachment means for securing the base to the ladder such that the penetrating ends of the spikes extend below the lower end of the ladder, and such that the penetrating ends of the spikes are restricted from rotating toward the inside of the ladder.
10. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 9, wherein the attachment means further restricts the spikes from outside rotation relative to the ladder.
11. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 10, wherein the attachment means restricts the spikes to the plane of the ladder.
12. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 9, wherein the attachment means is removable from the ladder.
13. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 9, wherein the base is coplanar with and perpendicular to the spikes.
14. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 13, wherein the attachment means comprises at least one hook, the hook having a first curved section and a straight section having two ends, one end of the straight section joining the first curved section, and the other end of the straight section being attached to the spike, the arrangement being such that when the ladder anchor faces the outside of the ladder and the first curved section is hooked over an upper rung of the ladder, the straight section contacts the lower rung of the ladder to restrict the penetrating end of the spike from rotating toward the inside of the ladder.
15. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 14, wherein the straight section is adjustable in length.
16. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 14, wherein the hook further comprises a second curved section attached to the straight section for hooking over the lower rung to restrict the penetrating end of the spike from rotating toward the outside of the ladder.
17. A ladder anchor as defined in claim 14, wherein the attachment means comprises two identical, parallel, spaced apart hooks.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2234303 CA2234303C (en) | 1998-04-07 | 1998-04-07 | Ladder anchor |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2234303 CA2234303C (en) | 1998-04-07 | 1998-04-07 | Ladder anchor |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2234303A1 CA2234303A1 (en) | 1999-10-07 |
| CA2234303C true CA2234303C (en) | 2005-06-21 |
Family
ID=29275510
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2234303 Expired - Fee Related CA2234303C (en) | 1998-04-07 | 1998-04-07 | Ladder anchor |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2234303C (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US10017989B1 (en) | 2015-05-08 | 2018-07-10 | Shea Kellogg | Anti-slip ladder shoe adapter |
-
1998
- 1998-04-07 CA CA 2234303 patent/CA2234303C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2234303A1 (en) | 1999-10-07 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US6029774A (en) | Ladder stabilizing assembly | |
| US7909138B2 (en) | Ladder security bracket and safety system | |
| US20100038172A1 (en) | Fall restricting system | |
| US5941343A (en) | Ladder safety accessory | |
| US8783415B2 (en) | Ladder support device | |
| US20110247895A1 (en) | Walk through ladder platform | |
| US20100051384A1 (en) | Ladder Stabilizer | |
| US20050045421A1 (en) | Ladder securement device | |
| US4576250A (en) | Ladder stop | |
| US20160201392A1 (en) | Ladder Support | |
| US5918699A (en) | Ladder anchoring system | |
| US5005668A (en) | Ladder step support | |
| CA2234303C (en) | Ladder anchor | |
| US8464834B2 (en) | Ladder stabilization device | |
| US5845740A (en) | Firefighter's roof support | |
| US8887867B2 (en) | Ladder stabilization device | |
| US5441125A (en) | Platform for temporary attachment to walls | |
| US8776948B2 (en) | Ladder security bracket and safety system | |
| US5407025A (en) | Gripping device for timber | |
| US20100213003A1 (en) | Guardrail Carriage | |
| US4007807A (en) | Ladder stabilizer | |
| US20170298693A1 (en) | Ladder Support | |
| US5865268A (en) | Ladder anchoring system | |
| GB2398342A (en) | Stabiliser for attachment to ladder head | |
| GB2359326A (en) | Portable ladder fitted with damage prevention roller |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| MKLA | Lapsed |