ES2377615B1

ES2377615B1 - FOLDING STAIRCASE.

Info

Publication number: ES2377615B1
Application number: ES201030550A
Authority: ES
Inventors: Antonio Santos De La Torre
Original assignee: Ajm Santos S L L; Ajm Santos Sll
Current assignee: Ajm Santos S L L; Ajm Santos Sll
Priority date: 2010-04-15
Filing date: 2010-04-15
Publication date: 2012-12-04
Anticipated expiration: 2030-04-15
Also published as: ES2377615A1; EP2378052A2

Abstract

Escalera plegable comprende al menos una pareja de montantes laterales (2) sustentadora de un conjunto de peldaños (7), cada uno de estos peldaños estando subdivididos en una pareja de semipeldaños (9), articulados respecto a uno de dichos montantes (2, 3), siendo cada uno de dichos semipeldaños (9) igual en forma y grosor al otro de dichos semipeldaños (9), dichos semipeldaños están articulados a al menos una pletina (10) de unión entre ambos, estando las pletinas (10) correspondientes a cada uno de los peldaños (10) desprovistas de tirante alguno de unión entre sí; cada semipeldaño (9) tiene múltiples apoyos y al menos uno de ellos un medio de fijación; comprende un gancho de cierre (20) en posición plegada, y un asa (22) para su transporte.Folding ladder comprises at least one pair of lateral uprights (2) supporting a set of steps (7), each of these steps being subdivided into a pair of semi-rungs (9), articulated with respect to one of said uprights (2, 3 ), each of said semi-rungs (9) being equal in shape and thickness to the other of said half-rungs (9), said half-rungs are articulated to at least one connecting plate (10) between the two, the plates (10) corresponding to each of the rungs (10) devoid of any tie between them; each semi-rung (9) has multiple supports and at least one of them a fixing means; It comprises a closing hook (20) in folded position, and a handle (22) for transport.

Description

Escalera plegable Folding ladder

La presente invención tiene por objeto una escalera plegable mejorada que es abatible en dos planos respecto a un eje superior, y cuyos 5 peldaños son también susceptibles de plegado, de modo que una vez plegada constituya una estructura compacta, de reducido grosor. The present invention aims at an improved folding ladder that is foldable in two planes with respect to an upper axis, and whose 5 steps are also susceptible to folding, so that once folded it constitutes a compact structure, of reduced thickness.

State of the art

A lo largo del tiempo se han realizado distintas escaleras plegables. ES Over time, different folding stairs have been made. IS

10 284515 U divulga una escalera portátil plegable de un solo tramo, cuyos peldaños están divididos en dos mitades articuladas entre sí en la parte central, y articulados a sendas estructuras laterales en forma de “U”, poseyendo el conjunto de peldaños un tirante central de unión entre todos los peldaños; necesita una escuadra inferior, de apoyo del 10 284515 U discloses a single-section folding portable ladder, whose rungs are divided into two halves articulated to each other in the central part, and articulated to two U-shaped side structures, the set of steps having a central brace of union between all the steps; you need a lower, supportive squad

15 peldaño inferior y el tirante central. 15 bottom step and center strap.

ES 290028 U divulga una escalera plegable semejante a la anterior, pero que está provista de dos planos abatibles entre sí, cada uno de ellos con una configuración semejante al del modelo de utilidad ES 290028 U discloses a folding ladder similar to the previous one, but which is provided with two folding planes, each with a configuration similar to that of the utility model

20 descrito anteriormente. 20 described above.

ES 291090 U divulga una escalera plegable, semejante a las anteriores, pero en la que el tirante central constituye además un pie de apoyo en el suelo. ES 291090 U discloses a folding ladder, similar to the previous ones, but in which the central brace also constitutes a support foot on the ground.

ES 293776 U divulga una escalera plegable con una base superior de apoyo también plegable. ES 293776 U discloses a folding ladder with a support base that is also foldable.

ES 294026 U divulga una escalera plegable semejante a las anteriores, en las que se dispone un casquillo limitador del desplazamiento del tirante central. ES 294026 U discloses a folding ladder similar to the previous ones, in which there is a bushing that limits the displacement of the central strap.

ES 295824 U describe una escalera plegable semejante a las anteriores, pero en la que la parte posterior esta provista de una pareja de puntales de apoyo articulados entre sí a mitad altura y a la parte dorsal de la estructura de la escalera. ES 295824 U describes a folding ladder similar to the previous ones, but in which the rear part is provided with a pair of support struts articulated with each other at half height and to the dorsal part of the stair structure.

En todas estas escaleras la articulación de una de las partes de los peldaños es interior a la otra de las partes de dichos peldaños. Además ninguna de dichas escaleras comprende dispositivo de seguridad frente al plegado indeseado total o parcial de los peldaños, por ejemplo cuando la escalera debe desplazarse unos metros para continuar una determinada labor. In all these stairs the articulation of one of the parts of the steps is internal to the other of the parts of said steps. In addition, none of said ladders includes a safety device against unwanted total or partial folding of the steps, for example when the ladder must be moved a few meters to continue a certain task.

ES 1047652 U describe una escalera plegable en la que los peldaños no están divididos en mitades articuladas. ES 1047652 U describes a folding ladder in which the steps are not divided into articulated halves.

Description of the invention

La presente invención tiene por objeto una escalera plegable que presenta frente a los antecedentes las siguientes ventajas: The subject of the present invention is a folding ladder that has the following advantages against the background:

• •: Cada semipeldaño es idéntico al semipeldaño complementario; Each semi-rung is identical to the complementary half-rung;

• •: No necesita un tirante central de sujeción de los semipeldaños, aumentando así la superficie útil del peldaño correspondiente; You do not need a central tie rod for the semi-rungs, thus increasing the useful surface of the corresponding rung;

• •: La unión entre los semipeldaños impide un exceso de desplazamiento en el desplegado y evita cimbreo de la escalera en posición desplegada; The union between the semi-rungs prevents an excess of displacement in the unfolding and avoids cimbreo of the ladder in deployed position;

• •: La escalera comprende un dispositivo de seguridad antiplegado; The ladder comprises an anti-folding safety device;

• •: La escalera comprende un dispositivo de seguridad antidesplegado; The ladder comprises an anti-unfolding safety device;

• •: La escalera está dotada de un asa de transporte; The ladder is equipped with a carrying handle;

• •: Presenta un perfecto ajuste y fijación de la articulación superior, gracias a una placa con una doble articulación respecto a cada uno de los planos de la escalera; It presents a perfect adjustment and fixation of the upper joint, thanks to a plate with a double joint with respect to each of the planes of the stairs;

• •: Comprende una base desplegable en cada uno de los lados para una mejor estabilidad en su apoyo en el suelo. It comprises a folding base on each side for better stability in its support on the ground.

La escalera consiste en una o en dos parejas montantes constituidos por perfiles en forma de “C”, con sus huecos enfrentados entre sí; cada una de las parejas constituye uno de los dos planos que constituye la escalera, y que en posición desplegada forman entre sí un ángulo agudo. En escaleras de dos parejas de montantes, al menos una de las parejas comprende un conjunto de peldaños divididos en dos mitades, constituida cada una de dichas mitades mediante perfiles en “U” invertida, con el hueco abierto hacia abajo (en posición desplegada). Según una realización, los bordes superiores de dichos perfiles comprenden un resalte lateral; las dos mitades están a su vez unidas a al menos una pletina central que constituye pieza intermedia de unión y articulación con un borde superior recto, de modo que cuando los peldaños están desplegados, el borde superior de la pieza de articulación apoya sobre los bordes superiores de los perfiles que forman el peldaño, impidiendo que superen en su giro la posición predeterminada. Opcional y alternativamente, la pletina central envuelve superiormente a la unión de la pareja de semipeldaños, que limitará igualmente el grado de giro de dichos semipeldaños. La pletina central está desprovista de tirante de unión alguno. The staircase consists of one or two upright couples consisting of "C" shaped profiles, with their gaps facing each other; each of the pairs constitutes one of the two planes that constitutes the ladder, and that in an unfolded position form an acute angle between them. On stairs of two pairs of uprights, at least one of the couples comprises a set of steps divided into two halves, each of these halves constituted by inverted "U" profiles, with the opening open down (in the unfolded position). According to one embodiment, the upper edges of said profiles comprise a lateral shoulder; the two halves are in turn joined to at least one central plate that constitutes an intermediate joint and articulation piece with a straight upper edge, so that when the rungs are deployed, the upper edge of the articulation piece rests on the upper edges of the profiles that form the step, preventing them from exceeding the predetermined position. Optionally and alternatively, the central plate envelops superiorly to the union of the pair of semi-rungs, which will also limit the degree of rotation of said semi-rungs. The central plate is devoid of any tie rod.

Los dos perfiles que constituyen cada peldaño son iguales en grosor, y se articulan interiormente a los respectivos perfiles en “C” que constituyen los montantes. Al menos alguno de los semipeldaños, comprende paralelamente e inferiormente a su eje de articulación con el correspondiente perfil en “C” que constituye el correspondiente montante, un vástago de fijación. Desde la parte exterior del montante se dispone un dispositivo de fijación del vástago del semipeldaño, que comprende una corredera accionable mediante un cuerpo exterior, que interiormente tiene un perfil en “U” invertida, y que desplazado hacia arriba permite el giro libre del peldaño, y desplazado hacia abajo confina y sujeta el vástago del semipeldaño, impidiendo su movimiento. Las correderas de los semipeldaños de cada montante pueden estar unidas entre sí, de modo que el desplazamiento de una fuerce necesariamente el desplazamiento de las otras. The two profiles that constitute each step are equal in thickness, and are internally articulated to the respective "C" profiles that constitute the uprights. At least some of the semi-rungs comprise, parallel and inferiorly to its axis of articulation with the corresponding "C" profile that constitutes the corresponding amount, a fixing rod. From the outer part of the upright there is a device for fixing the semi-rudder rod, which comprises a slide that can be operated by means of an outer body, which internally has an inverted "U" profile, and which, displaced upwards, allows the free rotation of the step, and displaced downwards it confines and holds the semi-rudder rod, preventing its movement. The slides of the semi-rungs of each upright can be joined together, so that the displacement of one necessarily forces the displacement of the others.

Los montantes pueden comprender además vástagos de apoyo de los semipeldaños. The uprights can also comprise support rods of the semi-rungs.

Según una opción, los pies inferiores de apoyo en el suelo están dispuestos interiormente en cada uno de los montantes, y son susceptibles de articulación. Cuando se deben abrir, se gira dicho pie hacia la parte interior, después hacia abajo y finalmente hacia afuera, atravesando una ranura practicada en el extremo inferior exterior de cada montante, y constituyendo así una ampliación de la base de apoyo de la escalera. According to one option, the lower support feet on the floor are arranged internally in each of the uprights, and are susceptible to articulation. When they must be opened, said foot is turned towards the inner part, then downwards and finally outwards, through a groove made in the lower outer end of each upright, and thus constituting an extension of the ladder support base.

La apertura de los dos planos, en las escaleras de dos planos, tiene lugar mediante placas de articulación que unen los montantes de cada uno de los lados. Dicha placa de articulación permitirá que los dos montantes queden dispuestos en posición paralela una vez plegados. El perfil de uno de los lados formará en su extremo superior un ángulo igual al de apertura de la escalera, permitiendo con ello un perfecto ajuste en la posición de apertura entre el apoyo. El ángulo de apertura de los dos planos está limitado por al menos una cinta, cable o cadena de seguridad. En posición cerrada, se dispone al menos un gancho de cierre, que articula en uno de los montantes y es susceptible de fijación en un tetón dispuesto en el otro, cuando la escalera está plegada. The opening of the two planes, in the stairs of two planes, takes place by means of articulation plates that join the uprights of each of the sides. Said articulation plate will allow the two uprights to be arranged in parallel position once folded. The profile of one of the sides will form at its upper end an angle equal to the opening of the ladder, thereby allowing a perfect adjustment in the opening position between the support. The opening angle of the two planes is limited by at least one tape, cable or safety chain. In the closed position, at least one closing hook is arranged, which articulates in one of the uprights and is susceptible to fixing in a lug arranged in the other, when the ladder is folded.

Al menos uno de los montantes está provisto de un asa, que estará 5 próxima al centro de gravedad de la escalera en posición plegada. At least one of the uprights is provided with a handle, which will be close to the center of gravity of the ladder in the folded position.

Brief description of the figures

Con objeto de ilustrar la explicación que va a seguir, adjuntamos a la presente memoria descriptiva seis hojas de dibujos, en las que en 10 nueve figuras se representa la esencia de la presente invención, y en In order to illustrate the explanation to be followed, we attach six sheets of drawings to this description, in which the essence of the present invention is represented in 10 figures, and in

las que: La figura 1 muestra una vista lateral de la escalera de la invención en posición plegada; La figura 2 muestra una vista frontal de la misma escalera en 15 posición plegada; La figura 3 muestra una vista frontal de la escalera de la invención en posición desplegada; La figura 4 muestra una vista lateral de la escalera de la figura 3; which: Figure 1 shows a side view of the ladder of the invention in folded position; Figure 2 shows a front view of the same ladder in a folded position; Figure 3 shows a front view of the ladder of the invention in the deployed position; Figure 4 shows a side view of the ladder of Figure 3;

20 La figura 5 muestra una vista frontal de la escalera d ela invención en una fase intermedia de plegado/desplegado; Figure 5 shows a front view of the ladder of the invention in an intermediate phase of folding / unfolding;

La figura 6 muestra una vista de la escalera de la invención, en la que se observa desde la parte posterior de uno de los planos o del plano que la constituye una pareja de pies escamoteados; Figure 6 shows a view of the ladder of the invention, in which it is observed from the back of one of the planes or the plane that constitutes a pair of retracted feet;

La figura 7 muestra una vista de la escalera de la figura 6, en la que los pies han sido abatidos para constituir una base de apoyo más amplia que la de los montantes de la escalera; Figure 7 shows a view of the ladder of Figure 6, in which the feet have been folded down to constitute a wider support base than that of the uprights of the ladder;

La figura 8 muestra una vista esquemática del interior de uno de los montantes de sustentación de los peldaños, en el que se observa una pieza de fijación de los peldaños en posición de desbloqueo; y Figure 8 shows a schematic view of the interior of one of the uprights of the rungs, in which a piece of fixing the rungs is observed in the unlocked position; Y

La figura 9 muestra una vista semejante a la de la figura 8, pero con la pieza de fijación en posición de bloqueo del peldaño. Figure 9 shows a view similar to that of Figure 8, but with the fixing piece in the step of locking the step.

Description of the embodiments of the invention

La presente invención, como se ha indicado, consiste en una escalera plegable (1) que en una primera realización está provista de una pareja de montantes (2) sustentadores de un conjunto de peldaños (7) plegables conformando un plano único. The present invention, as indicated, consists of a folding ladder (1) which in a first embodiment is provided with a pair of uprights (2) supporting a set of folding steps (7) forming a single plane.

Según una segunda realización, la escalera (1) está conformada a partir de dos parejas de montantes (2, 3), susceptibles de articulación entre sí en su parte superior, y preferentemente ambas respecto a una pieza de unión y articulación (4), de modo que en posición desplegada dichos montantes se sitúan en dos planos, uno anterior y uno posterior, que forman entre sí un ángulo agudo. Conforme a una opción preferente, los montantes posteriores (3) tienen un extremo superior (6) que está cortado en bisel, de modo que forman en dicho extremo superior (6) un ángulo agudo (5), de modo que el plano oblicuo superior sirve de base de apoyo sobre los montantes anteriores cuando la escalera (1) está desplegada, de modo que constituye un elemento de seguridad frente a una excesiva apertura. Al menos una de las parejas de montantes (2) sustenta un conjunto de peldaños (7). According to a second embodiment, the ladder (1) is formed from two pairs of uprights (2, 3), susceptible to articulation with each other at its top, and preferably both with respect to a joint and articulation piece (4), so that in an unfolded position said uprights are placed in two planes, one anterior and one posterior, which form an acute angle between them. According to a preferred option, the rear uprights (3) have an upper end (6) that is bevel cut, so that at said upper end (6) they form an acute angle (5), so that the upper oblique plane It serves as a support base on the previous uprights when the ladder (1) is deployed, so that it constitutes a safety element against excessive opening. At least one of the pairs of uprights (2) supports a set of steps (7).

En cualquiera de las realizaciones anteriormente indicadas, los montantes (2) sustentadores de los peldaños (7) adoptan forma de “C”, cuyos huecos quedan enfrentados entre sí. Cada uno de los huecos comprende un conjunto de ejes (8) de articulación de los peldaños. Cada uno de los peldaños (7) está dividido en dos semipeldaños (9) que son iguales en forma y grosor. Cada uno de los dos semipeldaños (9) que conforman un peldaño (7) está unido a al menos una pletina central (10) que constituye pieza intermedia de unión y articulación de dichos semipeldaños (9) entre sí. Los semipeldaños (9) están formados por sendos perfiles que tienen sección en forma de “U” invertida, y se articulan interiormente a los respectivos perfiles en “C” que constituyen los montantes (2, 3). Según una opción preferente, los semipeldaños presentan un resalte lateral (11) en al menos una porción de sus bordes superiores; la pletina central presenta a su vez un borde superior (12) sustancialmente recto, que en posición desplegada del peldaño (7) dicho borde superior (12) de dicha pletina es susceptible de apoyar en el resalte lateral (11) de los semipeldaños, estableciendo así un límite de giro en el desplegado. In any of the aforementioned embodiments, the uprights (2) supporting the steps (7) take the form of "C", whose gaps are facing each other. Each of the gaps comprises a set of axes (8) for articulating the steps. Each of the steps (7) is divided into two semi-rungs (9) that are equal in shape and thickness. Each of the two semi-rungs (9) that make up a step (7) is connected to at least one central plate (10) that constitutes an intermediate piece of joint and articulation of said semi-rungs (9) to each other. The semi-rungs (9) are formed by two profiles that have an inverted "U" shaped section, and are internally articulated to the respective "C" profiles that constitute the uprights (2, 3). According to a preferred option, the semi-rungs have a lateral projection (11) in at least a portion of their upper edges; the central plate in turn has a substantially straight upper edge (12), which in the deployed position of the step (7) said upper edge (12) of said plate is able to rest on the lateral projection (11) of the semi-rungs, establishing thus a limit of rotation in the unfolding.

Según una opción alternativa, menos preferida pero igualmente comprendida en el ámbito de la presente invención, la pletina central According to an alternative option, less preferred but also within the scope of the present invention, the central plate

(10) envuelve superiormente y por los dos lados la porción central de cada uno de los dos semipeldaños (9), de modo que igualmente quedará limitado el grado de giro de dichos semipeldaños (9). (10) envelops the central portion of each of the two semi-rungs (9) superiorly and on both sides, so that the degree of rotation of said semi-rungs (9) will also be limited.

Al menos alguno de los semipeldaños (9), comprende dispuesto paralelamente e inferiormente a su eje de articulación (8) con el correspondiente perfil en “C” que constituye el correspondiente montante (2, 3), un vástago de fijación (13). At least one of the semi-rungs (9), comprises arranged parallel and inferiorly to its axis of articulation (8) with the corresponding "C" profile that constitutes the corresponding upright (2, 3), a fixing rod (13).

La escalera comprende también al menos un dispositivo de fijación The ladder also comprises at least one fixing device

(14) que sujeta en la posición desplegada el correspondiente semipeldaño (9). Dicho dispositivo de fijación consiste en una pieza corredera accionable manualmente desde el exterior de cada montante (2, 3) que sujeta los peldaños (7) mediante un cuerpo exterior conectado con un cuerpo interior (15), que permite su desplazamiento a través de una perforación alargada o coliso. El cuerpo interior (15) adopta forma de gancho o pieza en forma de “U” invertida, de modo que cuando está en posición de retención (posición inferior) impide que el peldaño gire respecto a su eje (8) y por lo tanto el plegado de la escalera, y en posición de liberación (desplazado hacia arriba) permite el giro libre del peldaño. Los dispositivos de fijación (14) de cada montante pueden estar unidos entre sí, de modo que el accionamiento de uno conduzca también el de los demás. (14) that holds the corresponding semi-rung in the deployed position (9). Said fixing device consists of a sliding part manually operable from the outside of each upright (2, 3) that holds the steps (7) by an outer body connected with an inner body (15), which allows its movement through a elongated or colossal perforation. The inner body (15) takes the form of an inverted “U” shaped hook or piece, so that when it is in the retention position (lower position) it prevents the step from rotating with respect to its axis (8) and therefore the folding the ladder, and in the release position (shifted upwards) allows the free turn of the step. The fixing devices (14) of each upright can be connected to each other, so that the drive of one also drives that of the others.

El dispositivo de fijación está provisto de una parte exterior y de una parte interior. La parte exterior del dispositivo de fijación (14) está roscada a la parte interior, de modo que dicha parte interior es susceptible de desplazamiento lateral en función del grado de roscado correspondiente, desde una posición desenroscada, libre, en que dicho dispositivo de fijación (14) pueda ser desplazado libremente hacia arriba y hacia abajo, hasta una posición roscada (apretada), de fijación, en que la parte interior es retraída y forzada hacia el montante (2), de modo que sujeta firmemente un vástago (16) del semipeldaño (9), que se describirá posteriormente. The fixing device is provided with an outer part and an inner part. The outer part of the fixing device (14) is threaded to the inner part, so that said inner part is susceptible to lateral displacement depending on the corresponding degree of threading, from a unscrewed, free position, in which said fixing device ( 14) it can be freely moved up and down, to a threaded (tight), fixing position, in which the inner part is retracted and forced towards the upright (2), so that it firmly holds a rod (16) of the semi-rudder (9), which will be described later.

Cada uno de los montantes (2) puede comprender además uno o más vástagos de apoyo (16) de los semipeldaños (9). Each of the uprights (2) can also comprise one or more support rods (16) of the semi-rungs (9).

De este modo, la sujeción firme de la escalera se produce simultáneamente mediante el apoyo lateral de los semipeldaños (9) sobre los montantes (2), mediante el apoyo de los semipeldaños en los vástagos (16) mediante el apoyo de los semipeldaños sobre la pletina central (10), mediante el apoyo de los semipeldaños (9) entre sí, y fijándose dicha sujeción mediante la opresión por roscado del elemento de sujeción (14), que atrae el vástago (13) del correspondiente semipeldaño (9) hacia la superficie interior del montante (2) correspondiente hasta que impide su movimiento, evitándose de este modo el cimbreo de la escalera. In this way, the firm support of the ladder occurs simultaneously by means of the lateral support of the semi-rungs (9) on the uprights (2), by means of the support of the semi-rungs on the stems (16) by means of the support of the semi-rungs on the central plate (10), by supporting the semi-rungs (9) with each other, and fixing said fastening by threading the clamping element (14), which attracts the rod (13) of the corresponding semi-rung (9) towards the interior surface of the corresponding upright (2) until it prevents its movement, thus avoiding the dome of the ladder.

Según una opción, se disponen en la escalera unos pies inferiores (17) de apoyo en el suelo dispuestos interiormente en cada uno de los montantes (2), y susceptibles de articulación respecto a éste. Para el uso de la escalera, dichos pies Cuando se deben abrir, se giran dichos According to one option, lower feet (17) of floor support are arranged internally arranged in each of the uprights (2), and can be articulated with respect to it. For the use of the ladder, said feet When they must be opened, said feet are turned

10 pies inferiores (17) hacia la parte interior, después hacia abajo y finalmente hacia afuera, atravesando una ranura (no representada) practicada en el extremo inferior exterior de cada montante, y constituyendo así una ampliación de la base de apoyo de la escalera. 10 lower feet (17) towards the inner part, then downwards and finally outwards, through a groove (not shown) made in the lower outer end of each upright, and thus constituting an extension of the ladder support base.

15 La apertura de los dos planos, en las escaleras de dos planos, tiene lugar mediante placas de articulación (4) que unen los montantes (2, 3) de cada uno de los lados. Dicha placa de articulación (4) permitirá que los dos montantes queden dispuestos en posición paralela una vez plegados. El ángulo de apertura de los dos planos estará 15 The opening of the two planes, in the stairs of two planes, takes place by means of articulation plates (4) that join the uprights (2, 3) of each of the sides. Said articulation plate (4) will allow the two uprights to be arranged in parallel position once folded. The opening angle of the two planes will be

20 preferentemente limitado además, por medio de al menos una cinta, cable o cadena de seguridad (19). En posición cerrada, se dispone al menos un gancho de cierre (20), que articula en uno de los montantes y es susceptible de fijación en un tetón (21) dispuesto en el otro, cuando la escalera está plegada. 20 preferably further limited, by means of at least one safety tape, cable or chain (19). In the closed position, at least one closing hook (20) is arranged, which articulates in one of the uprights and is capable of being fixed in a stud (21) arranged in the other, when the ladder is folded.

Además, al menos uno de los montantes está provisto de un asa (22), que estará próxima al centro de gravedad de la escalera en posición plegada. In addition, at least one of the uprights is provided with a handle (22), which will be close to the center of gravity of the ladder in the folded position.

Claims

1.-Folding ladder, comprising at least one pair of lateral uprights (2) supporting a set of steps (7), each of these steps being subdivided into a pair of semi-rungs (9), articulated with respect to one of said uprights (2, 3), characterized in that each of said semi-rungs (9) is equal in shape and thickness to the other of said half-rungs (9), and because said half-rungs are articulated to at least one plate (10) of union between both , the plates (10) corresponding to each one of the rungs (10) being devoid of any tie rod connected to each other.

2.-Folding ladder according to claim 1, characterized in that it also comprises a pair of rear uprights (2, 3) both pairs of uprights (2, 3) being articulated with respect to a joint and articulation piece (4), so that in an unfolded position said uprights (2,3) are placed in two planes, one anterior and one posterior, which form an acute angle between them.

3. Folding ladder according to claim 2, characterized in that the rear uprights (3) have an upper end (6) that is bevel cut, so that they form an acute angle (5) at said upper end (6) with an oblique plane of support on the previous uprights when the ladder (1) is deployed.

4.-Folding ladder, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the uprights (2) supporting the steps (7) take the form of "C", whose gaps remain

5 facing each other, the gaps of said C being provided with a set of axes (8) for articulating the corresponding steps (7).

5.-Folding ladder, according to any of the claims

10 above, characterized in that the semi-rungs (9) are formed by two profiles that have an inverted "U" shaped section.

6.-Folding ladder, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the semi-rungs (9) have a

15 lateral projection (11) in at least a portion of its upper edges, and because the plate (10) for joining said semi-rungs (9) in turn has a substantially straight upper edge (12), which in the unfolded position of the step (7) said upper edge (12) of said plate is capable of resting on the lateral shoulder (11) of the semi-rungs.

7. Folding ladder according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the central plate (10) envelops the central portion of each of the two semi-rungs (9) superiorly and on both sides.

8.-Folding ladder, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it also comprises at least one fixing device (14) that holds the corresponding semi-rung (9) in the deployed position, and because at least some of the semi-rungs (9) , it comprises arranged parallel and inferior to its axis of articulation (8) with the corresponding "C" profile that constitutes the corresponding upright (2), a fixing rod (13),

9.-Folding ladder according to claim 8, characterized in that the fixing device (14) consists of a sliding part manually operable from the outside of each upright (2) that holds the steps (7) by an external body connected to a inner body (15), susceptible to displacement through an elongated or colossal perforation between an upper position and a lower position.

10.-Folding ladder according to claim 9, characterized in that the inner body (15) adopts an inverted "U" shaped hook or piece, capable of being locked with the fixing rod (13) of the semi-rung (9).

11.-Folding ladder, according to any of claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the fixing device comprises an outer part and an inner part, provided with a thread for fixing each other, operable from the outside of the corresponding amount (2).

12. Folding ladder according to one of claims 8 to 11,

5 characterized in that it comprises at least one post several fixing devices (14) connected to each other, so that the drive of one is linked to the drive of the others.

13.-Folding ladder, according to any of the claims

10 above, characterized in that the uprights (2) further comprise support rods (16) of the semi-rungs (9).

14.-Folding ladder, according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises lower feet (17)

15 of support in the ground arranged internally in each one of the uprights (2), and susceptible of articulation with respect to this one.

15. Folding ladder according to claim 14, characterized in that the lower ends of the uprights (2) comprise a

20 groove in its lower outer end.

16. Folding ladder, according to any of claims 2 to 15, characterized in that it further comprises a tape, cable or safety chain (19).

17. Folding ladder, according to any of claims 2 to 16, characterized in that it comprises at least one closing hook (20), which articulates in one of the uprights and is capable of fixing in a stud (21) arranged in the other when the ladder

5 is folded.

18. Folding ladder according to any of claims 2 to 17, characterized in that at least one of the uprights is provided with a handle (22), arranged in a position close to the center of gravity

10 of the ladder in folded position.

SPANISH OFFICE OF THE PATENTS AND BRAND

Application no .: 201030550

SPAIN

Date of submission of the application: 04.04.2010

Priority Date:

REPORT ON THE STATE OF THE TECHNIQUE

51 Int. Cl.: E06C1 / 383 (2006.01)

RELEVANT DOCUMENTS

Categoría Category: 56 Documentos citados Reivindicaciones afectadas 56 Documents cited Claims Affected

X X: CN 201258682 Y (NONG YANG) 17.06.2009, resumen; figuras 1-2. 1,6,7 CN 201258682 Y (NONG YANG) 06.17.2009, summary; figures 1-2. 1,6,7

Y Y: 2,4-12,14-17 2,4-12,14-17

Y Y: US 732295 A (GUSTAFSON GIDEON L) 30.06.1903, todo el documento; figuras 1-2. 2,4,16,17 US 732295 A (GUSTAFSON GIDEON L) 30.06.1903, the whole document; figures 1-2. 2,4,16.17

Y Y: KR 100786724 B1 (JEON KI TAE) 21.12.2007, resumen; figuras 1-6. 8-12 KR 100786724 B1 (JEON KI TAE) 21.12.2007, summary; Figures 1-6. 8-12

Y Y: ES 1047652 U (TEYCE S.A.) 01.05.2001, todo el documento. 5 EN 1047652 U (TEYCE S.A.) 01.05.2001, the whole document. 5

Y Y: JP 9049383 A (TRINITY IND CORP) 18.02.1997, resumen; figuras 1-4. 14,15 JP 9049383 A (TRINITY IND CORP) 18.02.1997, summary; Figures 1-4. 14.15

A TO: ES 295824 U (STOLTZ GERARD) 16.06.1987, todo el documento. 3,13,18 EN 295824 U (STOLTZ GERARD) 16.06.1987, the whole document. 3.13.18

Categoría de los documentos citados X: de particular relevancia Y: de particular relevancia combinado con otro/s de la misma categoría A: refleja el estado de la técnica O: referido a divulgación no escrita P: publicado entre la fecha de prioridad y la de presentación de la solicitud E: documento anterior, pero publicado después de la fecha de presentación de la solicitud Category of the documents cited X: of particular relevance Y: of particular relevance combined with other / s of the same category A: reflects the state of the art O: refers to unwritten disclosure P: published between the priority date and the date of priority submission of the application E: previous document, but published after the date of submission of the application

El presente informe ha sido realizado • para todas las reivindicaciones • para las reivindicaciones nº: This report has been prepared • for all claims • for claims no:

Fecha de realización del informe 12.03.2012 Date of realization of the report 12.03.2012: Examinador C. Espejo Rodriguez Página 1/5 Examiner C. Espejo Rodriguez Page 1/5

REPORT OF THE STATE OF THE TECHNIQUE

Application number: 201030550

Minimum documentation sought (classification system followed by classification symbols) E06C Electronic databases consulted during the search (name of the database and, if possible, terms of

search used) INVENES, EPODOC

State of the Art Report Page 2/5

WRITTEN OPINION

Application number: 201030550

Date of Completion of Written Opinion: 12.03.2012

Statement

Novedad (Art. 6.1 LP 11/1986) Novelty (Art. 6.1 LP 11/1986): Reivindicaciones 1-18 Reivindicaciones SI NO Claims 1-18 Claims IF NOT

Actividad inventiva (Art. 8.1 LP11/1986) Inventive activity (Art. 8.1 LP11 / 1986): Reivindicaciones 3,13,18 Reivindicaciones 1,2,4-12,14-17 SI NO Claims 3,13,18 Claims 1,2,4-12,14-17 IF NOT

The application is considered to comply with the industrial application requirement. This requirement was evaluated during the formal and technical examination phase of the application (Article 31.2 Law 11/1986).

Opinion Base.-

This opinion has been made on the basis of the patent application as published.

State of the Art Report Page 3/5

WRITTEN OPINION

Application number: 201030550

1. Documents considered.-

The documents belonging to the state of the art taken into consideration for the realization of this opinion are listed below.

Documento Document: Número Publicación o Identificación Fecha Publicación Publication or Identification Number publication date

D01 D01: CN 201258682 Y (NONG YANG) 17.06.2009 CN 201258682 Y (NONG YANG) 06.17.2009

D02 D02: US 732295 A (GUSTAFSON GIDEON L) 30.06.1903 US 732295 A (GUSTAFSON GIDEON L) 06.30.1903

D03 D03: KR 100786724 B1 (JEON KI TAE) 21.12.2007 KR 100786724 B1 (JEON KI TAE) 21.12.2007

D04 D04: JP 9049383 A (TRINITY IND CORP) 18.02.1997 JP 9049383 A (TRINITY IND CORP) 18.02.1997

D05 D05: ES 1047652 U (TEYCE S.A.) 01.05.2001 ES 1047652 U (TEYCE S.A.) 01.05.2001

D06 D06: ES 295824 U (STOLTZ GERARD) 16.06.1987 ES 295824 U (STOLTZ GERARD) 16.06.1987

2. Statement motivated according to articles 29.6 and 29.7 of the Regulations for the execution of Law 11/1986, of March 20, on Patents on novelty and inventive activity; quotes and explanations in support of this statement

The technical object of the invention is a folding ladder (1) comprising two rear uprights articulated by means of a joint and articulation piece (4) and two front uprights (2,3). The four uprights have a "C" shape, the openings facing each other, and in an unfolded position are placed in two planes forming an acute angle (6), the rear end of the rear uprights being cut in bevel (5). support on the previous uprights and supporting the four a set of steps (7) subdivided into articulated semi-rungs (9) by a plate

(10)(10): de unión entre ambos. Los peldaños son idénticos en grosor y con perfiles de sección en forma de “U” invertida, encontrándose igualmente articulados respecto a dichos montantes por medio de unos ejes de articulación (8). Los semipeldaños presentan un resalte lateral (11) al menos en parte de su borde superior y la pletina con su borde superior of union between both. The steps are identical in thickness and with inverted U-shaped section profiles, being equally articulated with respect to said uprights by means of articulation axes (8). The semi-rungs have a lateral projection (11) at least in part of their upper edge and the plate with its upper edge

(12)(12): sustancialmente recto, envuelve y apoya por los dos lados a los dos semipeldaños. La escalera presenta al menos una rosca de fijación (14) de vinculado accionamiento conjunto que sujeta en la posición desplegada al semipeldaño, estando al menos uno de estos peldaños dispuesto paralelamente e inferiormente a su eje de articulación (8). El dispositivo de fijación consiste en una pieza corredera accionable manualmente desde el exterior del montante que sujeta los peldaños mediante un cuerpo exterior conectado con un cuerpo interior (15), susceptible de desplazamiento en forma de gancho o de “U” invertida susceptible de ser trabado por el vástago de fijación del peldaño (13) a través de una perforación alargada entre una posición anterior y una posición inferior. Los montantes presentan vástagos de apoyo (16) de los semipeldaños. La escalera presenta además pies inferiores de apoyo (17) en el suelo dispuesto interiormente en cada uno de los montantes y susceptible de articulación respecto a este y con una ranura en el extremo inferior exterior. La escalera está provista de una cinta, cable o cadena de seguridad (19), un gancho de cierre (20) articulado en uno de los momentos terminado en un tetón substantially straight, it wraps and supports both semi-rungs on both sides. The ladder has at least one fixing thread (14) of linked joint drive that holds in the deployed position to the semi-rung, at least one of these steps being arranged parallel and inferior to its articulation axis (8). The fixing device consists of a sliding part manually operable from the outside of the upright that holds the steps by means of an outer body connected to an inner body (15), which can be moved in the form of a hook or an inverted “U” that can be locked. by the step fixing rod (13) through an elongated perforation between a previous position and a lower position. The uprights have support rods (16) of the semi-rungs. The ladder also has lower support feet (17) on the floor arranged internally in each of the uprights and susceptible to articulation with respect to this and with a groove in the lower outer end. The ladder is provided with a tape, cable or safety chain (19), a closing hook (20) articulated at one of the moments ending in a bumper

(21) (twenty-one): y un asa (22) dispuesta en posición próxima al centro de gravedad para ser transportada. and a handle (22) arranged in a position close to the center of gravity to be transported.

Document D01 is considered the closest in the state of the art to the object of the invention, and discloses a ladder with at least one pair of lateral uprights (figure 1) that support a set of sub-divided rungs articulated by a connecting plate between them with their substantially straight upper edge, which wraps and supports both semi-rungs on both sides. As described in D01, the object of the invention according to independent claim 1 and its dependents 6 and 7 is new but lacks inventive activity.

Document D02 discloses a folding ladder with two front uprights and two rear ones articulated by means of a connecting piece (B, figure 6). The four uprights have a "C" shape, the openings facing each other (Fig. 1-3), and in an unfolded position they are placed in two planes forming an acute angle (Fig. 6). The steps are of the same thickness, being articulated respectively to the uprights by means of articulation axes (G2). The ladder is a means of manual fixation (B and C ') which holds in the position deployed to the upright but not to the semi-rung as claimed in claim 8. The ladder is provided with a safety belt, cable or chain (C' ), an articulated closing hook at one of the moments ending in a bumper (G and G '). In the light of the combination of documents D01 and D02 it is considered that the object of dependent claims 2 and 4 dependent on No. 1 and claims 16 and 17 dependent on dependent claim 2, presents novelty but no inventive activity.

Document D03 discloses a folding ladder with at least one pair of lateral uprights (figure 2) in the form of "C" whose gaps are facing each other where they support a set of identical rungs in thickness, being equally articulated with respect to said uprights by means of joint axes (233, fig. 6). The ladder has at least one fixing thread (40, fig. 6) of linked joint drive that holds in the position deployed to the step, at least one of these steps being arranged parallel and inferiorly to its axis of articulation. The fixing device consists of a hand operated part from the outside of the upright that holds the steps by means of an external body connected to an inner body (232ª, fig. 6), which can be locked by a fixing rod of the step or stop ( 231, fig. 6) through an elongated perforation between a previous position and a lower position. The difference between the dependent claim 10 of the object of the invention and what is disclosed in D03 is that the inner body that locks the step is achieved by means of a "U" hook while in D03 it is carried out by means of a stop. The person skilled in the art could therefore consider as a normal design option to include any of the two solutions provided to achieve the technical effect of locking the step. Therefore, in the light of the combination of documents D01 and D03 it is considered that the object of dependent claims 8 to 12 dependent on No. 1 is novel but not inventive.

State of the Art Report Page 4/5

WRITTEN OPINION

Application number: 201030550

Document D04 discloses a folding ladder whose steps are formed by inverted "U" section profiles. In the light of the combination of documents D01 and D04 it is considered that the object of dependent claim 5 dependent on No. 1 is novel but not inventive.

Document D05 discloses a ladder with lower support feet (fig. 4) on the floor arranged internally in each of the uprights and susceptible to articulation with respect to it. In the light of the combination of documents D01 and D05 it is considered that the object of dependent claims 14 and 15 dependent on No. 1 presents novelty but no inventive activity.

Document D06 discloses a folding ladder with two uprights and folding steps joined by a tie between them reflecting only the state of the art of the field to which the invention belongs.

Finally, none of the aforementioned documents taken alone or in combination reveals the invention defined in claims 3, 13 and 18 so they are considered new and have inventive activity.

State of the Art Report Page 5/5