GB609987A - Step ladders - Google Patents

Abstract

609,987. Step-ladders. SMITH, N. March 27, 1946, No. 9489. [Class 20(ii)] A step-ladder in which the steps fold to lie in the plane of the ladder when the ladder is closed comprises a main upright the longitudinals of which are formed of two angle-section members braced together at 12, and a supporting upright hinged thereto at 16 similarly formed from angle-section members 15 and braced by strips 17. The members 14 and 15 which are preferably of metal are so disposed as to nest against each other when the ladder is folded. The steps 18 are formed of sheet metal which may be roughened to prevent slipping, the longitudinal edges being bent downwardly and under at 19 for rigidity, and are secured to the horizontal flanges 20a of angle brackets 20. The vertical flanges 20b of these brackets are pivoted at their rear ends to the members 14 with their outer faces adjacent the inner faces of the side flanges of the members 14 and at their other ends pivoted to links 23 parallel with the members 14, the inner faces of the flanges 20b being adjacent the links 23 and the flanges 20a cut away where necessary to clear the links. The extension of, the supporting upright away from the main upright is limited by a pair of upwardly breakable toggles each consisting of links 25, 26 the former being pivoted to one of the members 15 the latter secured to one of the angle brackets 20, so that the steps 18 automatically fold down to lie flush with the main upright when the ladder is closed. Catches 28 hold the toggles in extended position. The two members 14 of the main upright and also the members 15 of the supporting upright preferably diverge downward for increased stability.