GB2595439A

GB2595439A - Device for holding a ladder at a desired working angle

Info

Publication number: GB2595439A
Application number: GB2005229.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Homes Anthony
Original assignee: Antovation Ltd
Current assignee: Antovation Ltd
Priority date: 2020-04-08
Filing date: 2020-04-08
Publication date: 2021-12-01
Also published as: GB2609848A; GB202005229D0; GB202216628D0; WO2021204973A1

Abstract

The device 10 for holding a ladder at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal comprises a base portion 14 configured to rest against an opposing surface and hold the device at a particular orientation, means for attaching the device to an opposing surface, and a first planar surface 16 configured to hold a rail of a ladder at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal. A portion of a rail of a ladder rests parallel to the planar surface 16 in use so as to position the ladder at the predetermined angle. The device may include a second planar surface 18 angled relative to the first configured to hold a rail of a ladder at a second angle relative to the surface of the base portion. Also claimed is a kit for securing a ladder to a structure with the device and a method of holding a ladder at an angle to a surface using the device.

Description

DEVICE FOR HOLDING A LADDER AT A DESIRED WORKING ANGLE

BACKGROUND

On a construction site, for example when constructing a new building, ladders are used to access various parts of the site. The ladders tend to be positioned at locations having fixed structures, such as a beam, joist, or other fixed structure. For example, a common location would be a future stairwell. The ladders at these locations need to be secured to the structure at a desired and fixed working angle. The "working angle" corresponds to an angle that a ladder should be held at in use, and may be specified in guidelines, code or other official texts that relate to the construction industry. Holding ladders at an angle that is substantially less than or greater than a recommended working angle (for example, in the United Kingdom a working angle of about 75 degrees may be used) can change the proper displacement of weight, which often leads to a ladder failing or slipping, causing injury. In addition, during a construction project ladders will need to be moved for temporary use elsewhere and/or to allow access for building material.

The working angle may be defined as the acute angle subtended between a ladder (which is typically a straight object) and the horizontal, e.g., floor on which the ladder rests.

For example, if a right-angled triangle includes the horizontal (e.g., horizontal surface of the structure such as the floor), and the vertical (the vertical surface of the structure), the angle subtended between the ladder and the horizontal will be a working angle.

Accordingly, what is desired is a device that can hold a ladder at a desired working angle, whilst allowing easy movement of the ladder to various different locations around a construction site throughout a construction project.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure provides a device for holding a ladder at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal, the device comprising a base portion configured to rest against an opposing surface and hold the device at a particular orientation, means for attaching the device to an opposing surface, and a first planar surface configured to hold a rail of a ladder at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal, wherein a portion of a rail of a ladder rests parallel to the planar surface in use so as to position the ladder at the predetermined angle.

This provides a simple and efficient device that can orientate a ladder at a predetermined, e.g., working angle in a fast and efficient manner. Using a planar surface as described means that a user can very quickly see how to position the ladder and that the ladder will be held at the predetermined angle when doing so. This may be particularly useful in various environments such as a building site, where the device can be used multiple times and at different locations. The device enables a user to quickly position a ladder at the required angle in harsh environments, for example where there are loud noises or in low visibility.

As used herein, "horizontal" corresponds to its normal definition, namely a plane parallel to the horizon, such that the ladder may be held by the device at the predetermined angle relative to the horizontal. This is used since reference to the ground or floor may vary depending on the angle or slope of the floor. In other words, the predetermined angle is the same regardless of the angle or slope of the floor upon which the ladder may rest when held by the device. In most cases (although not all) the device is intended to be attached to a vertically extending surface, but as described elsewhere the surface to which the device is attached may itself be horizontally extending, or somewhere between horizontally and vertically extending.

The base portion may be configured to hold the device at the particular orientation relative to the surface while it is resting against the surface.

The surface may form part of any suitable structure used in construction, such as a beam, joist or a floorboard.

The device may further comprise a second planar surface angled relative to the first planar surface, wherein the second planar surface is configured to hold a rail of a ladder at a second predetermined angle relative to the surface that the base portion is resting against in use, wherein a portion of a rail of a ladder rests parallel to the second planar surface in use so as to position the ladder at the second predetermined angle relative to the surface.

This allows the device to orient the ladder at a different, but also predetermined angle relative to the horizontal. Alternatively, it allows the device to orient the ladder at the same (or a different) predetermined angle relative to the horizontal when it is attached to a surface having a different angle relative to the horizontal.

The base may be attachable to a vertical surface of a structure, such that one of the first surface and the second surface can be used to hold the ladder at an angle relative to the vertical surface. The base may additionally be attachable to a horizontal surface of the structure. In this case, the other of the first and second surfaces can be used to hold the ladder at an angle relative to horizontal surface.

The predetermined angle or the second predetermined angle may be a desired working angle, to prevent slippage of the ladder in use.

The predetermined angle may be between about 700 and about 80°.

The predetermined angle may be about 75°. The first surface may subtend an angle with respect to the base portion that is between about 100 and about 200, for example about 15°. When the angle is 15°, and the base is attached to a vertical surface, a ladder aligned with the planar surface will be angled at 75 degrees relative to horizontal. This is a desirable working angle.

The angle between the first planar surface and the second planar surface may be about 90°. Thus, the angle between the first predetermined angle and the second predetermined angle may be about 90°.

When the base portion is rested against a vertical surface, a ladder may be positioned against one of the planar surfaces. When the base portion is rested against a horizontal surface, the ladder may be rested or positioned against the other of the planar surfaces. In both circumstances the ladder will be positioned at the same angle relative to the (horizontal) ground. This may be a desired working angle, for example the predetermined angle of between about 70° and about 80°, and optionally 75°.

The base portion may comprise a planar (e.g., substantially flat) lower surface for placing against a surface of a structure. The planar lower surface may be configured to rest flush against an opposing flat surface, which improves usability.

The base portion may have a substantially uniform thickness, such that the upper surface and the lower surface of the base portion are substantially parallel.

The device may further comprise a mechanism (i.e. a holding mechanism) configured to hold a ladder (or a portion thereof) against the first planar surface.

The holding mechanism may comprise an aperture configured to receive a device (e.g., a fastening device) configured to fasten the ladder (or a portion thereof) against the first planar surface.

The fastening device may be reversibly and repeatably fastenable, i.e. comprising reversible fasteners such as ties, hook and loop material, or clips. This allows the ladder to be temporarily fastened to hold the ladder (or a portion thereof) against the first planar surface. This is advantageous, as it allows the ladder to be easily removed, and relocated or later replaced. For example, during construction, ladders are often used in the place of stairs between floors, and located within gaps that are left in the upper floor to which they reach. However, they may block the passage of large items, such as construction tools or materials, through the gaps between the floors. Additionally, ladders may be regularly moved between locations on a construction site, for example if there are fewer ladders than required. Using such temporary fasteners can allow the ladder to easily be removed to allow items to be moved between the floors, and then replaced, whilst quickly orienting the ladder as desired. It is advantageous that the ladder may be quickly, easily, and reliably orientated and/or secured, as if the ladder is frequently moved, the user(s) may not reliably orient and secure the ladder if this requires additional time and effort, thus leading to unsafe working conditions.

The fastening device may comprise a strap configured to pass through the aperture and for fastening around a ladder (or a portion thereof) so as to hold a ladder (or a portion thereof) against the first planar surface.

The aperture may be located adjacent to the first planar surface. The aperture may be a slit that runs parallel to the first planar surface. Where first and second planar surfaces are provided, a second aperture may be provided that is configured to receive a device configured to fasten the ladder (or a portion thereof) against the second planar surface. A strap (which may be the same strap) may be configured to pass through the second aperture for fastening around a ladder (or a portion thereof) so as to hold a ladder (or a portion thereof) against the second planar surface. The second aperture may be a slit that runs parallel to the second planar surface.

The first planar surface may have an increased coefficient of friction relative to the remainder of the device. This may aid in holding the ladder at the desired orientation, and prevent the ladder from slipping.

The second planar surface (where provided) may have the same coefficient of friction as the first planar surface.

A pad may be provided on the first planar surface that forms a contact surface for a ladder.

A pad may be provided on the second planar surface (where provided) that also forms a contact surface for a ladder.

The pad (in either case) may be a friction strip and comprise a material having an increased coefficient of friction relative to the remainder of the device. The material of the pad may be rubber, for example a rubber foam.

The means for attaching the base portion to an opposing surface may comprise a plurality of apertures in the base portion that are configured to receive a fastener (such as a screw), such that a fastener can pass through the base portion through the apertures and affix the device to an opposing surface. The plurality of apertures may comprise apertures having a range of sizes, such that they may be configured to receive fasteners having different sizes. For example, different sized screws may be most suitable for use depending on the material from surface is formed.

The device may comprise a wedge-shaped portion extending from a portion of a front surface of the base, wherein the wedge portion comprises the first planar surface.

The first planar surface may be an upper surface of the wedge portion and/or device.

The wedge portion may also comprise the second planar surface (where provided), such that the first planar surface may meet the second planar surface at an edge of the wedge portion.

The second planar surface may be a bottom surface of the wedge portion and/or device The apertures configured to receive a device configured to fasten the ladder (or a portion thereof) against the first and/or second planar surface may be provided in the wedge portion.

The wedge portion and the base portion may be integrally formed.

The wedge portion may extend from a longitudinally central region of the base portion.

The base portion may comprise substantially parallel side edges, and the wedge portion may comprise a wedge having side edges that are substantially parallel to the side edges of the base portion, wherein the wedge portion is located in a central region of the base portion, as defined by a location roughly halfway between the side edges of the base portion.

The size of the device may be chosen based on the situation at hand. It should be noted that the device is not limited to any particular size, and any suitable length, width or height could be used. In various embodiments the device and/or base portion thereof may have a length between about 5 cm and about 30 cm, such between about 5 cm and about 20 cm or even between about 10 cm and 20 cm. The device and/or base portion thereof may have a width (transverse to the length) between about 4 cm and about 60 cm, such as between about 4 cm and about 10 cm (see, e.g., Fig. 1) or between about 30 cm and about 60 cm (see, e.g., Fig. 3A). The device (including the base portion and, where provided, wedge portion) may have height between about 2 cm and about 10 cm, such as between about 2 cm and about 5 cm. As stated above these dimensions are exemplary and non-limiting in respect of the broadest aspects of the invention.

The present invention also provides a kit for securing a ladder to a structure, the kit comprising a device as described above, and a fastening mechanism for securing the device to the structure.

The present invention further provides a method, which can be a method of using the device or kit described above and/or a method for holding a ladder at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal. The method may comprise providing a device as described above, or at least providing a device having a base portion configured to rest against an opposing surface, means for attaching the device to the opposing surface, and a first planar surface configured to hold a rail of a ladder at the predetermined angle.

The method may comprise attaching the device to an opposing surface. The step of attaching the device to an opposing surface may comprise using fasteners (e.g., as described above) to attach the base portion of the device to the opposing surface, the base portion comprising apertures through which the fasteners are passed.

The method may comprise placing a ladder on the first planar surface such that the ladder rests parallel to the planar surface. In this manner the ladder is held at the predetermined angle.

The method may include fastening the ladder to the first planar surface, for example using a holding mechanism (as described above) and/or fastening device such as a strap.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a device in accordance with the present invention; Fig. 2 shows a side view of an embodiment of a device attached to a roof truss; Fig. 3A shows an embodiment of a device having a width sufficient to position both rails of a ladder; Fig. 33 shows a ladder held at an angle relative to a surface using the device of Fig. 3A; Fig. 4A shows an enlarged view of a ladder held at an angle relative to a vertical surface using the device of Fig. 1; Fig. 43 shows an enlarged view of a ladder held at an angle relative to a vertical surface using the device of Fig. 1, and in a slightly different position to that of Fig. 4A; Fig. 5 shows an enlarged view of a ladder held at an angle relative to a horizontal surface using the device of Fig. 1; Fig. 6 shows the device of Fig. 1 attached to various widths of a joist; Fig. 7A shows a strap suitable for securing a ladder to the device of Fig. 1; Fig. 73 shows an alternative strap suitable for securing a ladder to the device of Fig. 1; Fig. 8A shows two devices corresponding to that of Fig. 1, and attached to a vertical surface of a structure; Fig. 8B shows a perspective view of a ladder aligned with and attached to the devices of Fig. 8A, using two straps corresponding to the strap of Fig. 7A; Fig. 9A shows a device having an alternative example of a holding mechanism; Fig. 93 shows a ladder held at an angle relative to a surface using the device of Fig. 9A; Fig. 10A shows an exploded perspective view of a device including pads; Fig. 10B shows a perspective view of the device of Fig. 10A; and Fig. 11 shows the device of Figs. 10A and 103 attached to a horizontal surface of a structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a device for holding a ladder at an angle relative to horizontal, e.g., part of a construction site or building. The device 10 comprises a wedge-shaped portion 12 and a base portion 14. In the embodiment of Fig. 1, the wedge portion 12 and the base portion 14 are integrally formed, e.g., as a single piece. This provides a device that is simple to use and manufacture. However, in various embodiments they may be formed from separate pieces.

The base portion 14 may have a substantially uniform thickness, and is preferably provided as a substantially rectangular plate having a top edge 2, bottom edge 4, and two opposing side edges 6, 8. The base portion 14 is configured to rest against, and may be attachable to, a planar surface. The base portion 14 further comprises an upper surface 5 and a lower surface 7, wherein the upper and lower surfaces 5 and 7 extend between the top and bottom edges 2, 4 as well as the two opposing side edges 6, 8.

As used herein, "planar' is intended to mean that the surface in question is flat and lies in a single geometric plane (i.e., it is not curved). For example, the lower surface 7 of the base 14 is substantially planar, such that it can lie flat against a surface, e.g., on a construction site, such as a horizontal or vertical surface of a beam, joist, floor etc. The upper surface 5 does not necessarily have to be planar, although this may be preferred for ease of use when attaching the device 10 to a structure.

The top edge 2 of the base portion 14 extends between each of the side edges 6, 8, and is shaped in a unique way for reasons that will become apparent. The top edge 2 comprises a recess 32 in which a portion of the top edge 2 is set back from a remainder thereof. The recess 32 forms part of the base portion 14 and has a reduced thickness relative to a remainder thereof. The base portion 14 has an increased thickness in the regions 36 of the top edge 2 either side of the recess 32. The recess 32 can help aid in the alignment of the device 10 when attaching it to a surface, as will be described in more detail below.

Although the device 10 is configured to rest against a planar surface, it is not strictly necessary to have a planar surface when using the device. What is required is that the device 10 can be held at a particular orientation by the base portion 14, and the wedge portion 12 is fixed in position relative to the base portion 14 when the device is held in that particular orientation.

In the illustrated embodiment, the base portion 14 comprises the lower surface 7, which as noted above is substantially planar, and the wedge portion 12 that is a single piece with the base portion 14, which achieves these effects. However, a person of skill in the art will appreciate that modifications to such an arrangement are possible that still achieve these effects, whilst remaining within the broadest aspects of the invention (as defined by the claims).

As will be appreciated, the device 10 is primarily for holding a ladder in position, and at a specific orientation at a corner portion of a structure (see, e.g., Figs. 8B and 9B), such that a ladder resting on (or held against) the device 10 is held at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal, but can extend past the structure that the base portion 14 is resting against.

The wedge portion 12 comprises a first surface 16 that is configured to position a rail of a ladder at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal. The first surface 16 may be an upper surface of the device 10 and/or may be substantially (or completely) planar such that a portion of a rail of a ladder can rest flush with the first surface 16 so as to position a ladder at the predetermined angle.

The first surface 16 may extend from the upper surface 5 of the device 10 at an angle such that it forms a wedge with the base portion 14. The angle may be relative to the bottom surface 7 of the device, in which case the angle may correspond to 900 minus the predetermined angle.

The first surface 16 may meet the upper surface 5 at a junction 31. In various embodiments a region 33 of the upper surface 5 between the junction 31 and the top edge 2 may beneficially extend from the junction 31 to the top edge 2 (e.g., within the recess 32) at the same angle as the first surface 16 of the wedge portion 12. In addition, the top edge 2 at this region 33 may be of minimum thickness as compared to the remainder of the top edge 2 and/or base portion 14.

The top edge 2 may further comprise one or more, and preferably two notches 34 within the recess 32, which can be used to help align and position the device 10 on a structure. For example, a user could measure the width of a ladder to be used and mark the measurement on the surface to which the ladder will be attached. The user could then line up the notches 34 with the marked measurements, before attaching the device 10 to the surface as described elsewhere herein.

The first surface 16 of the wedge portion 12 may extend from the upper surface 5 of the base portion 14 (e.g., the junction 31) to an edge 19 forming a bottom edge of the first surface 16, at which point it meets a second surface 18, wherein the second surface 18 extends from the edge 19 to the base portion 14, which provides the wedge shape referred to herein.

Similar to the first surface, the second surface 18 may also be configured to position a rail of a ladder at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal, which may be the same predetermined angle as that provided by the first surface 16, and relative to a surface that the base portion 14 is resting against in use. The second surface 18 may be a bottom surface of the device 10 and/or may be substantially (or completely) planar such that a portion of a rail of a ladder can rest flush with the second surface 18 so as to position a ladder at the predetermined angle.

Either or both of the first and second surfaces 16, 18 may include engravings, such as logos, which may provide a visual indication of the manufacturer/seller, or beneficially a visual indication of the function of the first and second surfaces 16, 18. Any such logos should not affect the ability of the surface to position the ladder as described herein.

In use, the base portion 14 may be attached to a planar surface (which will typically be a horizontal or vertical surface), such as of a building structure, e.g., a joist, beam, etc. When the base portion 14 is attached to a vertical surface, the angle of the first surface 16 relative to horizontal may be a desired working angle. Similarly, when the base 14 is attached to a horizontal surface, the angle of the second surface 18 relative to horizontal may be a desired working angle (which may be the same working angle).

In the illustrated embodiment, the first surface 16 is angled at approximately 90° to the second surface 18. Thus, when the base portion 14 is attached to a vertical surface and a ladder is positioned against the first surface 16, the ladder is held at a predetermined, e.g., desired working angle. When the base portion 14 is attached to a horizontal surface and a ladder is positioned against the second surface 18, the ladder is held at the same, predetermined, e.g., desired working angle.

As such, the same working angle can be subtended whether or not the surface to which the device is attached is a vertical or horizontal surface. Thus, a user can choose one of two surfaces (in this case a vertical or horizontal surface, e.g., of a joist or beam) to attach the device 10 to, and then utilise the respective first or second surface 16, 18 of the device 10 to position a ladder at a desired working angle. This can be useful, for example, if one of the two surfaces in consideration is not suitable for attaching a device 10 thereto.

In alternative embodiments, the device may be configured to position a ladder at a desired working angle when the device is attached to a non-vertical or horizontal surface, such as a roof truss or joist. In these embodiments, the first and/or second surfaces may be angled such that they subtend the desired working angle with the horizontal when attached to a surface with a known angle relative to the horizontal. Fig. 2 shows a side view of an embodiment of a device attached to an angled beam 300, such as a roof truss, with a ladder positioned thereagainst. Due to the angle of the first surface 16 relative to the joist 300 to which the device is positioned, the ladder 200 subtends a desired working angle with the horizontal. The predetermined, e.g., desired working angle shown in the illustrated embodiments is 75°, but in various embodiments may be between 70° to 80°, 60° to 90°, or any other suitable working angle as is known in the art.

The angle that the first surface 16 subtends with respect to the lower surface 7 of the base portion 14 (and optionally, with the exception of the region 33 where provided, the upper surface 5 of the base portion 14), may be referred to as a. The predetermined, e.g., desired working angle may then be calculated as 90° minus a. This provides a highly intuitive and convenient way of designing a device 10 and achieving proper orientation of a ladder.

When the device 10 is to be attached to a non-vertical or horizontal surface, the angle that said surface subtends with respect to the horizontal may be referred to as p. The desired working angle may then be calculated as 90° minus (a + p). Thus, the angle a for the device to be used may be calculated.

The first surface 16 is configured such that the planar surface of a rail of a ladder can rest on top of and parallel with the first surface 16; i.e., the first surface 16 can act as a surface configured to hold the ladder at an angle. The rail of the ladder can be laid flush with and directly contact the first surface 16, and be positioned at the predetermined angle (i.e., the rail and ladder will be held at the same angle relative to the planar surface that the base portion 14 is resting against). Alternatively, as discussed below the rail of the ladder can be laid flush with and directly contact a pad 30 of material (Figs. 10A, 10B) that is attached, e.g., adhered to the first surface 16.

The device 10 may be configured such that the base portion 14 does not substantially interfere with a ladder that is resting against the first surface 16. For example, as noted above, the base portion 14 may comprise a region 33 defined between the junction 31 (between the first surface 16 and the base portion 14) and the top edge 2 of the device 10 that extends in the same plane as (e.g., parallel to) the first surface 16. The region 33 may comprise a width W that is sufficient to fit a rail of a ladder within the region, for example the region 33 may have a width W between about 2 cm and about 10 cm, for example between about 4 cm and about 8 cm. The region 33 could be at least about 5 cm wide. The region 33 may be designed to receive the rail of a specific type of ladder, or to support any type of ladder.

Alternatively, as shown in Fig. 3A, the region 33 may have a width W sufficient to fit the entire width of a ladder 200, i.e., such that both rails of the ladder can be positioned thereagainst. In these embodiments, the region 33 may have a width W between about 25 cm and about 50 cm, such as between about 30 cm and about 40 cm. Fig. 3B shows a ladder 200 held at an angle relative to a surface using the device of Fig. 3A.

As discussed above, the region 33 extends such that an edge 38 thereof coincides with the top edge 2 of the device 10. The top edge 2 may have a sharp edge within the region 33 and may meet the bottom surface 7 of the base 14, so as to permit the ladder in various embodiments to rest flush with the first surface 16 in use. This can prevent the base portion 14 from substantially interfering with a ladder when the ladder is resting against the first surface 16.

In the illustrated embodiment, the top edge 2 of the device 10 comprises one or more regions 36 either side of the recess 32 (and region 33), which have an increased thickness as compared to that of the region 33 at the top edge 2. The regions 36 either side of the recess 32 may comprise straight edges 40, which allow for alignment of the top edge 2 with an edge of a structure to which the device 10 is attached.

This is shown in more detail in Figs. 4A and 4B, which illustrate the device 10 (and ladder 200) attached to a beam or joist 100.

The beam or joist 100 comprises a horizontal surface 104 and a vertical surface 106, and an edge 102 between the horizontal and vertical surfaces 104, 106. As seen in Fig. 4A, the straight edges 40 of the regions 36 either side of the recess 32 may be aligned (and coincide/sit flush) with the edge 102 of the structure 100. In this situation, the ladder 200 may rest on the building surface, which enables the weight of the ladder 200 to be taken substantially by the structure 100 rather than the device 10.

A pad 30 may be provided (as discussed in more detail below with reference to Figs. 10A and 10B) that has a suitable thickness, such that the ladder just touches the building surface 100 when the straight edges are aligned with the edge 102 of the structure. It should be noted, however, that use of a pad 30 is optional.

The top edge 2 of the device 10 may also have a straight edge 38 in the recessed portion 32 thereof. In a similar manner to the straight edges 40 of the regions 36 either side of the recess 32, the straight edge 38 of the recessed portion 32 may be aligned (and coincide/sit flush) with the edge 102 of the structure 100. This is shown in Fig. 4B, in which the device 10 is again attached to the structure 100, wherein the straight edge 38 of the recessed portion 32 is aligned with the edge 102 of the structure 100. In this situation, the ladder 200 may rest substantially on the device 10, which enables the weight of the ladder 200 to be taken substantially by the device 10. In addition, the building structure 100 will not substantially interfere with the ladder 200.

Should a user wish to attach the device 10 to the horizontal surface 104, they would do this in a substantially similar manner, but utilising the second surface 18 for holding and positioning the ladder 200 instead of the top surface 16.

Moving now to the means of attaching the device 10 to a structure, this may be achieved using various attachment mechanisms. Once the device 10 has been correctly aligned with a surface, the device 10 may be attached to the surface.

In the illustrated embodiments, (e.g., Figs. 1, 3A, 33, 4A and 4B) the base portion 14 includes an attachment mechanism comprising fasteners 110, and a plurality of apertures 20 configured to receive the fasteners 110 (e.g., screws) for attaching the device 10 to a surface. In other embodiments, the attachment mechanism may include clamps or straps for attaching the device to a surface of a building structure.

In various embodiments a plurality of fastener apertures may be provided through the base portion 14 either side of the wedge portion 12. This beneficially provides a number of options when attaching the device to a surface using fasteners 110.

For example, as shown in Figs. 1 and 4A, a first pair of apertures 20a could be provided near the top edge 2 for receiving fasteners 110, so that the device 10 can be attached to a structure 100 (for example when the straight edges 40 of the regions 36 either side of the recess 32 sit flush with an edge 102 of the structure 100). However, when the straight edge 38 of the recessed portion 32 sits flush with an edge 102 of the structure 100 instead, the first pair of apertures 20a may not be suitable for use, due to their close proximity to the edge 102 of the structure 100. As such, the device 10 comprises a second pair of apertures 20b for receiving fasteners 110, so that the device 10 can be attached to a structure 100 in this situation. Any of the apertures 20 can be used for attachment of the device 10 to a surface. Different apertures will be most suitable for use with different surfaces.

Fig. 5 shows an enlarged view of a ladder held at an angle relative to a surface using the device of Fig. 1. In this embodiment, the structure is a metal web joist. As can be seen, the device is attached to the horizontal surface using the first pair of apertures 20a and a third pair of apertures 20c.

Fig. 6 shows the device 10 of Fig. 1 attached to various widths of a joist 100. As can be seen, if the width of the joist is greater than the length of the device, the widest spaced possible pair of apertures 20 are the most suitable for use. Therefore, in Fig. 6, various of the pairs of apertures 20a-20f are used to insert screws 110 to attach the devices 10 to the joists. When the joist is narrower, pairs of apertures 20 that are closer together may be used. The skilled person would understand, however, that any apertures 20 may be used as long as they overlie the joist 100.

In various embodiments (not shown), the fastener apertures could be provided as elongate slits on either side of the wedge, for example that are wide enough to receive a fastener for attachment purposes, but so that the fastener could be positioned at any location along the slit for securing the device 10 to the structure.

In addition to the use of an attachment mechanism for attaching the device to a structure, the device 10 may further comprise a mechanism configured to hold the ladder in place relative to the device 10 (i.e., once the device 10 is attached to a structure). This holding mechanism may include one or more straps that are configured to wrap around the ladder and a portion of the device 10 for preventing relative movement therebetween.

Other suitable mechanisms for holding the ladder in place may include a latch or clamp configured to hold the ladder in place (e.g., against) the device 10.

In various embodiments the device 10 may beneficially comprise a slot (not shown) in the first or second planar surfaces 16, 18, the slot having a width sufficient to receive the rail of a ladder and hold the rail in place relative to the device 10. Alternatively, the device may beneficially comprise one or more ridges (not shown) on the first or second planar surfaces 16, 18, the one or more ridges being configured to hold the rail of a ladder in place relative to the device 10. For example, two parallel ridges could be provided that are spaced apart by a distance sufficient to receive the rail of a ladder. The distance referred to in these embodiments could be between about 2 cm and about 10 cm, for example between about 4 cm and about 8 cm.

Fig. 7A shows an example of a holding mechanism in the form of a strap 26, which is configured to wrap around the ladder and a portion of the device 10 for preventing relative movement therebetween, taking the form of a webbing strap having an adjustable buckle (e.g., a ladder buckle) for securing the strap at a fixed length and/or position.

Fig. 7B shows an alternative strap 26 having hook and loop fastener system for securing the strap at a fixed length and/or position, wherein the hook and loop fastener system may comprise a hook portion 26a and a loop portion 26b. Any suitable strap may be used, however, and ideally one that comprises means for securing the strap at a fixed length and/or position so as to prevent relative movement between the device 10 and a ladder.

Referring back to Fig. 1, the device 10 comprises one or more apertures 22, 24 (e.g., slits) configured to receive a strap (e.g., strap 26) such that the strap can wrap around the ladder and through one of the apertures 22,24 of the device 10 for preventing relative movement between the device 10 and a ladder.

The illustrated device includes two apertures (although any suitable number may be provided), including a first aperture 22 adjacent to the first surface 16, and a second aperture 24 adjacent to the second surface 18. The first aperture 22 may be a slit that extends parallel to the first surface 16, and the second aperture may be a slit that extends parallel to the second surface 18. The apertures 22, 24 should be wide enough so that the strap 26 can pass through the apertures 22, 24 without crimping or bending.

In use, a strap 26 can be fed through one of the apertures 22, 24 and wrapped around a ladder 200 resting against the respective first or second surface 16, 18. The strap 26 can then be secured to itself, using the means for securing the strap (e.g., buckle 28, or hook and loop material). Securing the strap 26 in this manner allows for a ladder to be securely held by the device 10.

Figs. 8A and 8B illustrate how the holding mechanism may operate, using the example of the straps 26 and apertures 22.

As shown in Fig. 8A, a pair of devices 10 may be positioned at appropriate locations on a structure 100, depending on the type of ladder being used. The devices 10 may be secured to the structure 100 using fasteners 110 as described above. A ladder 200 may then be positioned on the devices 10 such that respective rails 202 of the ladder 200 are positioned on the first surface 16 of each device 10. Once the ladder 200 is in the correct position and orientation, as governed by the angle of the first surface 16, the straps 26 may be passed through the apertures 22 and then wrapped around the rails 202 of the ladder 200. As shown in Fig. 8B, the straps 26 can then be secured at a fixed length and/or position so as to prevent relative movement between the device 10 and ladder 200.

When it is desired to remove the ladder 200 from its current location (and perhaps move it to an alternative location), the strap 26 can be loosened and/or unwrapped, to permit removal of the ladder 200 from that location. If desired, the devices 10 could also be removed from the structure 100 simply by removing the fasteners 110, and then taken with the ladder 200 for securing the ladder 200 at a new location on site.

In various embodiments the straps may be integral with the device 10, i.e. not requiring apertures, or secured within apertures. However, having a removable strap 26 allows for a single strap to be used to secure the ladder, for example using either the first aperture 22 or the second aperture 24 as required (depending on whether the device 10 is being secured to a vertical or horizontal surface, for example). In addition, the strap 26 could be replaceable, which may be quite beneficial, for example if the strap 26 is for use on a construction site.

Figs. 9A and 98 show an embodiment of a holding mechanism. The mechanism comprises an L-shaped holding arm 42.

The arm 42 has a first portion 44 extending in a direction that is substantially normal to the first surface 16, and further comprises a second portion 46 extending from the first portion 44, wherein the second portion 46 extends in a direction substantially parallel to the first surface 16.

The holding arm 42 is configured to receive and hold the rail of a ladder 200 in position in use, as shown in Fig. 9B.

The holding arm 42 may be made from a material having a degree of flexibility or adjustability, such that it can be moved or adjusted to accept and secure the ladder 200. For example, the holding arm may include adjusters (not shown). The material may be resilient such that the holding arm 42 can hold the ladder 200 in the desired position.

In these embodiments, the width W of the region 33 must be wide enough to accommodate a rail of a ladder 200 to the side of the first portion 44 of the holding arm 24.

As shown in Fig. 9B, when a ladder 200 is positioned against the first surface 16, the first portion 44 of the holding arm 42 extends the width of the rail of the ladder 200, allowing the second portion 46 to extend across and adjacent to the opposing edge of the rail to that positioned on the first surface 16, thus holding the ladder in place.

The holding arm 42 can be used in combination with the strap arrangement of Figs. 7A, 7B, 8A and 8B. Alternatively, the holding arm 42 may be used without a strap. In such arrangements, the device 10 may not include apertures 22, 24.

In arrangements including a single device configured to position both rails of a ladder, such as in Fig. 3A, the device 10 may include two holding arms, located on opposing sides of the first surface 16.

The device 10 may additionally or alternatively include a holding arm extending from the second surface 18 in a similar manner (not shown).

Figs. 10A and 10B illustrate an embodiment in which the device 10 comprises one or more pads 30 that are configured to attach to the first surface 16 and/or the second surface 18, such that a ladder may rest on the pads 30 in use. The first and second surfaces 16, 18 in these embodiments are still configured to hold a rail of a ladder at the predetermined angle (the rail will rest parallel to the first or second surface 16, 18), in accordance with the broadest aspects of the disclosure. However, the surface of the device 10 that contacts the rails of a ladder will be formed by the pads 30.

Using pads 30 can be beneficial for a number of reasons. For example, the pads 30 could be formed from a material having a coefficient of friction that is higher than that of the remainder of the device 10, such as rubber (e.g., neoprene). Additionally, or alternatively the pads 30 could be formed from a sticky material (again, a suitable type of rubber could be used) that releasably adheres the pads 30 (and device) to a ladder that is positioned onto the device 10. Additionally, or alternatively the pads 30 could provide a cushioning function, for example the pads 30 could be made from a compressible material such as a foam (e.g., a rubber foam if combined with the other examples). Using pads 30 that are removable and/or replaceable would be beneficial to prevent wear and tear of the device 10.

Figs. 10A and 10B also illustrate the bottom edge 4 of the base portion 14 (and device 10), from which it can be seen the bottom edge 4 extends between each of the side edges 6, 8, and is shaped in a similar way to the top edge 2. That is, the bottom edge 4 comprises a recess 32 in which a portion of the bottom edge 4 is set back from a remainder thereof. The recess 32 in the bottom edge 4 can help aid in the alignment of the device 10 when attaching it to a horizontal surface, in a substantially similar manner to the recess 32 in the top edge 2 when the device 10 is attached to a vertical surface. The recess 32 in the bottom edge 4 may have the same or a similar width Was the recess 32 in the top edge 2. Fig. 11 shows the device 10 mounted to a horizontal surface of a structure 100'.

The device 10 may be fastened to the surface utilising the fastener apertures 20 of the base 14 in the same way as described above in respect of the vertical surface. The bottom edge 4 of the device 10 is aligned, and sits flush with an edge 102' of the structure 100'. As is evident from Fig. 11, the recess 32 in the bottom edge 4 provides a space for allowing a rail of a ladder to pass through when the device 10 is secured to the horizontal surface. The rail can rest against the pad 30 (or second surface 18 if a pad 30 is not used) at the predetermined angle. A holding mechanism (e.g., strap 26 and aperture 24) could be used to hold the ladder in position relative to the device 10.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the accompanying claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A device for holding a ladder at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal, the device comprising: a base portion configured to rest against an opposing surface and hold the device at a particular orientation; means for attaching the device to an opposing surface; and a first planar surface configured to hold a rail of a ladder at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal, wherein a portion of a rail of a ladder rests parallel to the planar surface in use so as to position the ladder at the predetermined angle.
2. A device as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a second planar surface angled relative to the first planar surface, wherein the second planar surface is configured to hold a rail of a ladder at a second predetermined angle relative to the surface that the base portion is resting against in use, wherein a portion of a rail of a ladder rests parallel to the second planar surface in use so as to position the ladder at the second predetermined angle.
3. A device as claimed in claim 2, wherein an angle subtended between the first planar surface and the second planar surface is about 900.
4. A device as claimed in claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein the predetermined angle is between about 70° and about 80°.
5. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the base portion comprises a planar lower surface for placing against a surface of a structure.
6. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a mechanism configured to hold a ladder (or a portion thereof) against the first planar surface.
7. A device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the holding mechanism comprises an aperture configured to receive a device configured to fasten the ladder (or a portion thereof) against the first planar surface.
8. A device as claimed in claim 7, wherein the fastening device comprises a strap configured to pass through the aperture and for fastening around a ladder (or a portion thereof) so as to hold a ladder (or a portion thereof) against the first planar surface.
9. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first planar surface has an increased coefficient of friction relative to the remainder of the device.
10. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein a pad is provided on the first planar surface that forms a contact surface for a ladder.
11. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the means for attaching the base portion to an opposing surface comprises a plurality of apertures in the base portion that are each configured to receive a fastener, such that a fastener can pass through the base portion through the apertures and affix the device to an opposing surface.
12. A device as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the device comprises a wedge-shaped portion extending from a portion of a front surface of the base, wherein the wedge portion comprises the first planar surface.
13. A device as claimed in claim 12, wherein the base portion comprises substantially parallel side edges, and the wedge portion comprises a wedge having side edges that are substantially parallel to the side edges of the base portion, wherein the wedge portion is located in a central region of the base portion, as defined by a location roughly halfway between the side edges of the base portion.
14. A kit for securing a ladder to a structure, the kit comprising a device as claimed in any preceding claim; and a fastening mechanism for securing the device to the structure. 25
15. A method of holding a ladder at a predetermined angle relative to horizontal, the method comprising: providing a device having a base portion configured to rest against an opposing surface, means for attaching the device to the opposing surface, and a first planar surface configured to hold a rail of a ladder; attaching the device to an opposing surface; placing a ladder on the first planar surface such that the ladder rests parallel to the planar surface, and the ladder is held at the predetermined angle.