WO2023084078A1 - Assembly comprising a folding ladder and a platform - Google Patents

Assembly comprising a folding ladder and a platform Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2023084078A1
WO2023084078A1 PCT/EP2022/081789 EP2022081789W WO2023084078A1 WO 2023084078 A1 WO2023084078 A1 WO 2023084078A1 EP 2022081789 W EP2022081789 W EP 2022081789W WO 2023084078 A1 WO2023084078 A1 WO 2023084078A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
panel
latch
platform
securing device
aperture
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2022/081789
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Caspar Bernard Lampe
Original Assignee
Lampe Holding B.V.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Lampe Holding B.V. filed Critical Lampe Holding B.V.
Priority to EP22817682.2A priority Critical patent/EP4430253A1/en
Priority to CN202280075292.8A priority patent/CN118434949A/en
Publication of WO2023084078A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023084078A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G1/00—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground
    • E04G1/28—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground designed to provide support only at a low height
    • E04G1/30—Ladder scaffolds
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G1/00—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground
    • E04G1/15—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground essentially comprising special means for supporting or forming platforms; Platforms
    • E04G1/154—Non-detachably fixed and secured connections between platform and scaffold
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G1/00—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground
    • E04G1/34—Scaffold constructions able to be folded in prismatic or flat parts or able to be turned down
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G7/00—Connections between parts of the scaffold
    • E04G7/30—Scaffolding bars or members with non-detachably fixed coupling elements
    • E04G7/302—Scaffolding bars or members with non-detachably fixed coupling elements for connecting crossing or intersecting bars or members
    • E04G7/303—Scaffolding bars or members with non-detachably fixed coupling elements for connecting crossing or intersecting bars or members the added coupling elements are only fixed at one of the bars or members to connect
    • E04G7/304—Scaffolding bars or members with non-detachably fixed coupling elements for connecting crossing or intersecting bars or members the added coupling elements are only fixed at one of the bars or members to connect with tying means for connecting the bars or members
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G7/00—Connections between parts of the scaffold
    • E04G7/30—Scaffolding bars or members with non-detachably fixed coupling elements
    • E04G7/34—Scaffolding bars or members with non-detachably fixed coupling elements with coupling elements using positive engagement, e.g. hooks or pins
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06C—LADDERS
    • E06C1/00—Ladders in general
    • E06C1/02—Ladders in general with rigid longitudinal member or members
    • E06C1/04—Ladders for resting against objects, e.g. walls poles, trees
    • E06C1/08—Ladders for resting against objects, e.g. walls poles, trees multi-part
    • E06C1/12—Ladders for resting against objects, e.g. walls poles, trees multi-part extensible, e.g. telescopic
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06C—LADDERS
    • E06C1/00—Ladders in general
    • E06C1/02—Ladders in general with rigid longitudinal member or members
    • E06C1/14—Ladders capable of standing by themselves
    • E06C1/16—Ladders capable of standing by themselves with hinged struts which rest on the ground
    • E06C1/18—Ladders capable of standing by themselves with hinged struts which rest on the ground with supporting struts formed as ladders
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06C—LADDERS
    • E06C1/00—Ladders in general
    • E06C1/02—Ladders in general with rigid longitudinal member or members
    • E06C1/32—Ladders with a strut which is formed as a ladder and can be secured in line with the ladder
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06C—LADDERS
    • E06C1/00—Ladders in general
    • E06C1/02—Ladders in general with rigid longitudinal member or members
    • E06C1/38—Special constructions of ladders, e.g. ladders with more or less than two longitudinal members, ladders with movable rungs or other treads, longitudinally-foldable ladders
    • E06C1/39—Ladders having platforms; Ladders changeable into platforms
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06C—LADDERS
    • E06C7/00—Component parts, supporting parts, or accessories
    • E06C7/16—Platforms on, or for use on, ladders, e.g. liftable or lowerable platforms
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06C—LADDERS
    • E06C7/00—Component parts, supporting parts, or accessories
    • E06C7/42—Ladder feet; Supports therefor
    • E06C7/423—Ladder stabilising struts
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04G—SCAFFOLDING; FORMS; SHUTTERING; BUILDING IMPLEMENTS OR AIDS, OR THEIR USE; HANDLING BUILDING MATERIALS ON THE SITE; REPAIRING, BREAKING-UP OR OTHER WORK ON EXISTING BUILDINGS
    • E04G1/00—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground
    • E04G1/28—Scaffolds primarily resting on the ground designed to provide support only at a low height
    • E04G1/30—Ladder scaffolds
    • E04G2001/302—Ladder scaffolds with ladders supporting the platform
    • E04G2001/307—The ladders being self-supporting folding ladders

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an assembly for making a scaffold, in particular for making a scaffold comprising a folding ladder and one or more platforms, and to a platform which can be used in combination with a folding ladder.
  • Folding ladders are generally known from the prior art.
  • the folding ladder has four section which are connected to one another by means of hinges.
  • the hinges are provided with an (automatic) locking mechanism which ensures the position of the folding ladder sections with respect to one another in (preferably predetermined) positions.
  • folding ladder can be placed in a ‘scaffolding position’, in which the central two folding ladder section form an essentially horizontal bridge and the outer folding ladder sections form the “legs” of the bridge.
  • the known folding ladders have folding ladder sections comprising stiles with rungs between them.
  • W02007/089137A2 describes a plastic platform for a folding ladder with slots to contact the rungs. These slots are recesses in which the rungs are received when the platform is placed on the ladder, to secure the platform on the ladder.
  • EP0580960A1 describes a platform that can be detachably secured to be immovably mounted to a folding ladder.
  • the platform is provided with a hangable hook element and a fixed hook element.
  • the problem of this type of platforms is that the hingeable hook element can only be operated at the bottom side of the platform. In use, operating the attachment devices at the bottom side of the platform requires a user to sit down on his knees to see what he is doing.
  • this object is achieved by providing an assembly, comprising a folding ladder and a platform for making a scaffold, according to claim 1.
  • the folding ladder has two leg sections and two bridge sections, each ladder section comprising two stiles connected by multiple rungs.
  • the leg sections are each hingeable connected to one of the bridge sections such that the folding ladder can be folded into a scaffolding position for supporting the platform on at least one of the bridge sections.
  • the platform comprises a panel provided with a first securing device and a second securing device for securing the panel on the folding ladder.
  • the panel has a top surface and a bottom surface. In use the panel rests with its bottom surface on the rungs of at least one of the bridge sections to enable a person to stand on the top surface of the panel.
  • the first securing device and the second securing device are provided on the bottom surface of the panel to secure the panel to the rungs of the bridge section.
  • the panel is provided with at least one aperture in the panel through which the first securing device is manually operable from a top side of the platform.
  • the aperture is a through hole that also functions as a grip opening, i.e. an opening for engaging the panel by hand, e.g. for lifting the panel from the ladder.
  • the at least one aperture is provided in the panel such that, when the platform is mounted on a ladder, the at least one aperture is located in the area between two rungs.
  • the first securing device comprises a latch that is movable, preferably in a direction parallel to the bottom surface of the panel, between a locking position and an unlocking position.
  • the latch is provided with a control portion, which control portion is configured to be engaged by hand via the aperture to enable movement of the latch between the locking position and the unlocking position.
  • the control portion is configured for being engaged by the hand, preferably by the inside of the fingers, preferably in a gripping way, and thus tobe manipulated by hand via the aperture provided in the panel.
  • the latch is provided with a gripper portion for, in the locking position, engaging a first rung of the folding ladder on which the panel rests to thus secure the panel on the folding ladder, and for, in the unlocking position, disengaging the first rung to enable the panel to be removed from the folding ladder.
  • the second securing device may comprises a fixed hook element, or another securing device known from the prior art.
  • the second securing device may for example be a single body, for example an injection moulded body, that is mounted to the bottom surface of the panel, and is configured to engage a rung of the ladder.
  • the second securing body may be similar to the latch of the first securing device, and comprise a gripper portion for engaging a rung, but differ in the aspect that it is fixed in position relative to the panel of the platform.
  • the second securing device comprises a fixed hook element, or another securing device known from the prior art
  • the panel is provided with a second aperture in the panel.
  • the second aperture is a through hole that functions as a grip opening, i.e. an opening for engaging the panel by hand, e.g. for lifting the panel from the ladder.
  • the panel is provided with two of these apertures, located at opposite ends of the panel, such that the left aperture can be engaged with a left hand and the right aperture can be engaged with a right hand. This facilitates lifting the panel from the ladder by hand, more in particular by using two hands.
  • the at second aperture is provided in the panel such that, when the platform is mounted on a ladder, the at least one aperture is located in the area between two rungs.
  • the second securing device for engaging a second rung of the folding ladder, is similar to the first securing device and the panel is provided with a second aperture through which the second securing device is operatable from the top side of the platform.
  • the first securing device according to the invention is, via the aperture, operable from the top surface of the panel. Therefore it is possible to attach/detach the panel from the above, e.g. while standing next to the scaffold, making it easy to (dis)mount the platform.
  • the at least one aperture in the panel through which the first securing device is manually operable also provides the platform with a feature for engaging the platform.
  • This is in particular beneficial when the panel is provided with two of these apertures, preferably with similar securing devices each provided with a latch according to the invention, located at opposite ends of the panel, such that the left aperture can be engaged with a left hand and the right aperture can be engaged with a right hand. This facilitates lifting the panel from the ladder by hand, more in particular by using two hands.
  • the invention provides an alternative assembly and method for making a scaffold, in particular an alternative assembly, comprising a scaffold comprising a folding ladder and one or more platforms, and an alternative platform that can be used in combination with a folding ladder, that at least partially obviate one or more problems of the prior art.
  • the invention thus provides an improved assembly, comprising a folding ladder and one or more platforms, i.e. a platform folding ladder assembly, and a platform that can be used in combination with a folding ladder. Furthermore, the invention thus provides a platform folding ladder assembly, and a platform that are easy to use.
  • the aperture of the panel is shaped and positioned relative to the first securing device to show the control portion of the latch, at least when in the locking position, from a top side, i.e. the side at the top surface, of the panel.
  • the aperture is positioned relative to the first securing device such that it is located above the control portion when the latch is in the locking position, and the first securing device is furthermore shaped in such a way that one can see the position of the first securing device from above through the aperture.
  • the aperture is shaped and positioned such that a user can visually check whether or not the platform is mounted in a safe way or not, preventing at least some misinterpretations of the position of the securing device from happening.
  • the second securing device is similar to the first securing device, and the panel is provided with a second aperture through which the second securing device is operable from the top surface of the panel.
  • the first and the second securing device are provided on opposite ends of the platform, for securing the panel to opposite ends of a ladder section.
  • the first and the second securing device both comprise a latch, wherein the latch of the second securing device is similar to the latch of the first securing device, and wherein the panel is provided with a second aperture through which the second securing device is operable from the top side of the panel.
  • the gripper portion has a guide surface, facing away from the bottom surface of the panel.
  • the guide surface extends at an angle to the bottom surface of the panel such that, when the latch is in the locking position and the panel is lowered onto the folding ladder section, the contact between the guide surface and the first rung makes the first rung push the latch into the unlocking position.
  • the latch is automatically moved in the unlocking position, if still in the locking position, when the panel is lowered onto the ladder.
  • the securing device does not block lowering the panel onto the ladder, and the latch is moved and not damaged during the lowering of the panel onto the ladder.
  • the second securing device and optionally the first securing device are configured such that they each allow for a pivoting movement of the panel relative to the sport that they engage.
  • the panel can be pivoted about the sport engaged by the second securing device to lower the end of the panel with the second securing device onto the ladder section, and such that the guide surface of the first securing device engages a rung.
  • the rung pushes against the guide surface, which makes the first securing device to be moved from the locking position into the unlocking position, and allows the platform to be lowered onto the rungs of the ladder section.
  • the securing device can be moved into the locking position, e.g. to hook below the rung, to secure the platform on the ladder section.
  • the securing devices do not allow for pivoting of the panel relative to the rung they engage.
  • the platform is lowered onto the ladder with the panel parallel to the ladder section.
  • both securing devices receive a sport at the same time, and can engage the respective sports at the same time.
  • the guide surface and the bottom surface of the panel enclose an angle between 40 and 80 degrees, for example an angle between 45 and 75 degrees.
  • the slanting guide surface makes that only a small force is needed to press the platform against the rungs to thus push the gripper portions, and therefore the latch, into the unlocking position. This enables the platform to easily be mounted from above.
  • the panel is provided with a locking aperture to enable fixing the securing device in the locking position.
  • the locking aperture is provided in the panel, such that placing a locking body in and through the locking aperture, when the first securing device is in the locking position, makes the locking body engage the latch and makes the locking body block movement of the latch out of the locking position.
  • the locking body locks the first securing device in a locked state.
  • such an embodiment allows for locking and unlocking the securing device, by inserting and removing the locking body respectively, from the top side of the panel.
  • a locking body for example a pin or a combination of a metal t-shaped rod and a padlock, in and through the locking aperture when the first securing device is in a locking position, the locking body engages the latch and blocks movement of the latch out of the locking position. This enable the user to lock the panel to the folding ladder, making theft of the platform burdensome.
  • the locking aperture is provided behind the latch of the first securing device, when the latch is in the locking position.
  • the securing device is provided with a locking aperture as well, which locking aperture overlaps with the locking aperture in the panel, when the securing device is in the locking position.
  • the securing device is locked in the locking position by inserting a locking body, e.g. a pin, into both the locking aperture in the panel and the locking aperture of the latch.
  • the first securing device comprises a latch which comprises an aperture or recess for manually engaging the latch and the aperture or recess overlaps with the aperture in the panel when the latch is in the locking position, and when the latch is in the unlocking position.
  • This configuration enables the possibility to lock the platform by using a locking body that fills at least part of the aperture or recess in the latch and at least part of the aperture in the panel when the latch is in the locking position, such that the locking body locks the first securing device in a locked state, preventing accidental movement of the latch.
  • the assembly comprises a locking body, the locking body having a shape that fits at least part of the aperture or recess in the latch and at least part of the aperture in the panel when the latch is in the locking position, to lock the first securing device in a locking locked state.
  • the width of the panel is equal to the distance between the stiles of the folding ladder. This enables the panel to be secured by the stiles of the folding ladder in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the stiles. Thus locking the panel between the stiles limits movements of the platform, hence improving safety. Furthermore, in such a configuration, the first and the second securing device only have to secure the panel in a direction parallel to the stiles of the ladder to fix the position of the platform relative to the ladder.
  • the panel has a length similar to the length of a bridge section of the ladder, such that the platform and a second similar platform can be mounted on the first and second bridge section of the ladder respectively, and the panels together extend along the combined length of the two bridge sections.
  • the panel has a hight equal to or lower than the distance between the edge of the stile and a surface of the rung, such that the panel and a second similar panel can be mounted on the first and second bridge section of the folding ladder, and the bridge sections can still be folded onto each other with the top surfaces of the panel facing each other.
  • the folding ladder is foldable with the panels attached to the folding ladder, making it possible for example, to store the folding ladder in a folding position without have to detach the platforms.
  • the first securing device comprises a housing, wherein the latch is movable mounted in the housing. In a further embodiment, the first securing device is mounted with the housing to the panel.
  • the first securing devices comprises a spring element and a spring element fixer, for example a pin or a cavity.
  • the spring element connects the spring element fixer and the latch such that it forces the latch into the locking position.
  • the securing device comprises a latch having a gripper portion with a guide surface that extends at an angle to the bottom surface of the panel such that, when the latch is in the locking position and the panel is lowered onto the folding ladder section, first the guide surface and the first rung make that the latch is moved into the unlocking position and subsequently the spring pushes the latch in the locking position. This further facilitates mounting the platform on a ladder.
  • the panel when the platform is mounted on the bridge section, covers at least three rungs, and at least one of the rungs covered by the panel is located between a rung that is engaged by the first securing device and a side of the platform. Possibly two of the rungs are engaged by securing devices and at least one rung is between the rungs that are engaged.
  • the aperture of the panel is open at one side.
  • at least a part of the first securing device extends between the sides of the panel to form a closed aperture.
  • the platform is a first platform and the assembly furthermore comprises a second platform, and in use the first platform is mounted on one of the bridge sections and the second platform is mounted on the other one of the bridge sections.
  • the panel of first platform is longer than the panel of the second platform, and, when the first and the second platform are mounted on the bridge sections, the panel of the first platform overlaps with the bridge section onto which the second platform is mounted.
  • the first platform is secured on both the first and the second bridge section, which may enhance to overall rigidity of the scaffold.
  • the platform is provided with three or more securing devices, the securing devices being positioned on the panel to each engage a different rung of the ladder.
  • the invention furthermore provides platform for providing an assembly according to any of the preceding claims.
  • the invention fu rthermore provides a method for obtaining a scaffold by placing one or more platforms according to the invention on a folding ladder in scaffolding position.
  • the method comprises method comprises folding the ladder in a position with the bridge sections in line with each other, and with the leg sections at an angle to the bridge sections, and placing at least one platform on at least one of the bridge sections.
  • the gripper portion has a guide surface, facing away from the bottom surface of the panel, which guide surface extends at an angle to the bottom surface of the panel such that, when the latch is in the locking position and the panel is lowered onto the folding ladder section, the contact between the guide surface and the first rung makes the first rung push the latch into the unlocking position.
  • the method comprises the step: when placing the at least one platform on at least one of the bridge sections, lowering a part of the panel with the latch onto the folding ladder such that the guide surface of the latch engages a rung and the rung thus pushes the latch into the unlocking position.
  • the invention furthermore provides a platform, for in combination with a ladder providing an assembly according to the invention.
  • the platform comprises: a panel provided with a first securing device and a second securing device for securing the panel on the folding ladder, wherein the panel has a top surface and a bottom surface, and wherein the platform is configured to in rest with the bottom surface on rungs and between stiles of a bridge sections of a folding ladder to enable a person to stand on the top surface of the bridge panel, wherein the first securing device and the second securing device are provided on the bottom surface of the panel to secure the panel to the rungs of the bridge section, wherein the panel is provided with a first aperture in the panel through which the first securing device is manually operable from the a top side of the platform, and is provided with a second aperture in the panel through which the second securing device is manually operable from the a top side of the platform, wherein, the first securing device and the second securing device comprise a latch that is movable, preferably in a direction parallel to the bottom surface of the panel,
  • the panel of the platform is made of a wood or wood based material, for example shuttering plywood.
  • the panel is a metal panel, for example made of aluminium, or a plastic panel.
  • FIG. 1 shows a perspective top view of an exemplary embodiment of an assembly according to the invention with a folding ladder in a scaffolding position and with two platforms secured on bridge sections of the folding ladder;
  • Fig. 2 shows a perspective bottom view of a first securing device of a platform of the assembly of Fig. 1 ;
  • Fig. 3 shows a perspective bottom view of the first securing device of Fig. 2 in use in an unlocking position
  • Fig. 4 shows a perspective bottom view of the first securing device of Fig. 2 in use in an locking position
  • Fig. 5 shows perspective top view of a panel of the assembly of Fig. 1 being lowered onto a bridge section of a folding ladder
  • Fig. 6 shows a perspective top view of the top side of a panel positioned on a folding ladder from the scaffold of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 7 shows a perspective bottom view of the assembly of Fig.1 with two platforms secured on bridge sections of the folding ladder.
  • Fig. 8 shows a perspective top view of the assembly of Fig. 1 with the folding ladder in a folded position and with two platforms secured on bridge sections of the folding ladder.
  • Figure 1 shows an assembly 1 of a folding ladder 2 in scaffolding position and two exemplary embodiments of a platform 3 according to the invention.
  • the assembly 1 comprises the folding ladder 2 and the platforms 3 for making a scaffold 4.
  • the folding ladder 2 is composed of four sections in the usual way, which are connected to one another by hinges.
  • Each of the hinges is provided with an automatic locking mechanism which ensures the position of the folding ladder sections with respect to one another in predefined positions.
  • the central two folding ladder sections, or bridge sections 6, form an essentially horizontal bridge and the outer folding ladder sections, or leg sections 5, form the "legs" of the bridge.
  • the folding ladder 2 has two leg sections 5 and two bridge sections 6.
  • the bridge sections 3 are provided at their free ends with a ground support, in this case a transverse beam having supporting feet.
  • Each of the ladder sections 5,6 comprises two stiles 7 connected by multiple rungs 8.
  • the leg sections 5 are each hingeable connected to one of the bridge sections 6 such that the folding ladder 2 can be folded into the scaffolding position for supporting the platforms 3 on the bridge sections 6.
  • the platforms 3 are situated on the rungs of the bridge sections 6 when the folding ladder 2 is being used in the scaffolding position.
  • the platforms 3 each comprise a panel 9 provided with a first securing device 10 and a second securing device 11 for securing the panel on the folding ladder 2.
  • the panel 9 has a top surface 12 and a bottom surface 13. In use, each panel rests with its bottom surface 13 on the rungs 8 of one of the bridge sections 6 to enable a person to stand on the top surface 12 of the panel 9.
  • the first securing device 10 and the second securing device 11 are provided on the bottom surface 13 of the panel 9 to secure the panel to the rungs 8 of the bridge section 6.
  • the panel 9 is provided with at least one aperture 14 in the panel through which the first securing device is manually operable from a top side of the platform.
  • the second securing device 11 for engaging a second rung of the folding ladder, is similar to the first securing device 10, , i.e. comprises a latch similar to the latch of the first securing device.
  • the panel 9 is provided with a second aperture 15 through which the second securing device is operatable from the top side of the platform 3.
  • the second securing device for engaging a second rung of the folding ladder, comprises a fixed hook element.
  • the second securing device may for example be a single body, for example an injection moulded body, that is mounted to the bottom surface of the panel, and is configured to engage a rung of the ladder.
  • the second securing body may be similar to the latch of the first securing device, and comprise a gripper portion for engaging a rung, but differ in the aspect that it is fixed in position relative to the panel of the platform.
  • the first securing device 10 comprises a latch 16 that is movable, in a direction parallel to the bottom surface 13 of the panel 9, between a locking position and an unlocking position.
  • the first securing device 10 comprises a housing 20, and the latch 16 is movable mounted in the housing 20.
  • the first securing device 10 is mounted with the housing 20 to the panel 9.
  • the latch 16 is provided with a control portion 17, which control portion is configured to be engaged by hand via the aperture 14 to enable movement of the latch between the locking position and the unlocking position.
  • the control portion 17 can be manipulated by hand via the aperture.
  • the latch 16 is furthermore provided with a gripper portion 18 for, when the latch is in the locking position, engaging a first rung 8 of the folding ladder 2 on which the panel 9 rests to thus secure the panel on the folding ladder 2, and for, in the unlocking position, disengaging the rung 8 to enable the panel 9 to be removed from the folding ladder 2.
  • the aperture 14 of the panel 9 is shaped and positioned relative to the first securing device 10 to show the control portion 17 of the latch 16, at least when in the locking position, from a top side, i.e. the side at the top surface 12, of the panel.
  • Figure 6 shows a perspective top view of the platform 3, with the latch 16 in the locking position, and with the control portion 17 of the latch 16 visible via the aperture 15 to provide a user with a visual confirmation that the latch 16 is in the locking position, and thus secures the platform 3 on the folding ladder 2,
  • FIG. 2-4 A close-up of an embodiment of the first securing device 10 is shown in Figures 2-4.
  • Figure 2 shows the securing device 10 in isolation.
  • Figures 3 and 4 show the securing device in use with the latch 16 of the securing device 10 respectively in the disengaging position and the engaging position.
  • the gripper portion 18 has a guide surface 19.
  • the guide surface 19 faces away from the bottom surface 13 of the panel 9. Furthermore, the guide surface 19 extends at an angle to the bottom surface 13 of the panel 9 such that, when the latch 16 is in the locking position and the panel 9 is lowered onto the bridge section 6 of the folding ladder 2, see Figure 5, the contact between the guide surface 19 and the first rung 8 makes the first rung push the latch into the unlocking position.
  • Figure 3 the securing device 10 is shown right after placement of the platform 3 on the bridge section 6 of the folding ladder 2.
  • the latch 16 is in the unlocking position.
  • Figure 4 shows the securing device 10 with the latch 16 in the locking position. In this position, the gripper portion 18 engages a rung 8 of the folding ladder 2 and thus secures the platform 3 on the folding ladder 2.
  • the latch 16 has an aperture 21 for manually engaging the latch.
  • the aperture 21 overlaps with the aperture 14 in the panel 9 when the latch is in the locking position, see Figure 6, and when the latch is in the unlocking position.
  • the latch is not provided with an aperture, i.e. a through opening in the latch, but is provided with a recess.
  • the recess overlaps with the aperture in the panel when the latch is in the locking position, and when the latch is in the unlocking position.
  • the first securing device 10 comprises a spring element and a spring element fixer.
  • the spring elements is mounted in a channel within the latch 16.
  • the spring engages an end of a spring element fixer in the form of a pin 22, which pin is part of the housing 20.
  • the pin 22 has an end that is received in the channel in the latch 16, such that the spring in the channel is positioned between the latch and the pin 22, and thus pushes the latch away from the pin, i.e. pushes the latch into the locking position, see Figure 4.
  • Figure 5 shows a way of placing the platform 3 onto the folding ladder 2, where during placing the guide surface 19 of the latch 16 of the platform 3 engages a rung 8 and the rung thus pushes the latch into the unlocking position.
  • Fig. 6 shows the top side of the panel from which a person can operate the first securing device. Through the aperture of the panel it is visible that the securing device is in its locking position. By operating the securing device from the top surface of the panel, one unlocks the securing device and can subsequently lift the platform from its position.
  • Figure 7 shows from below the platforms 3 of the assembly 1 of Figure 1 in the mounted condition. Both platforms 3 are provided with two similar securing devices 10,11.
  • the panels when the platforms are mounted on the bridge section, cover three rungs. In these embodiments, two of these rungs are engaged by the first and the second securing device, and one of these rungs is located between the rungs that are engaged by the first securing device and the second securing device.
  • the panels 9 have a length and a width, and the width is equal to the distance between stiles 7 of the folding ladder 2, see for example Figure 6.
  • the first and the second securing device 10,11 only have to secure the panels 9 in a direction parallel to the stiles 7 of the folding ladder 2 to fix the position of the platform 3 relative to the folding ladder 2.
  • the panels 9 have a height lower than the distance between an edge of the stiles 7 and a surface of the rung 8. Furthermore, the panels 9 have a length similar to the length of the bridge sections 6 of the folding ladder 2, such that a panel and a second similar panel can be mounted on the first and second bridge section of the ladder respectively, and the bridge sections can still be folded onto each other with the top surfaces of the panels facing each other.
  • a configuration of the assembly i.e. with the folding ladder in a folded condition, is shown in Figure 8.
  • the assembly furthermore comprises a locking body for fixing the latch of the securing device in the locking position, and thus fixing the securing device in a locking state.
  • the platform comprises a locking aperture located in the panel, and the locking aperture and the locking body are configured such that placing the locking body in and through the locking aperture, when the first securing device is in the locking position, the locking body engages the latch and blocks movement of the latch out of the locking position. Thus, the locking body locks the securing device in a locking state.
  • the aperture in the panel, for engaging the latch is dimensioned for receiving one or more fingers to manipulate, i.e. move the latch into the unlocking position.
  • the aperture is not configured for to receive all fingers, but only one or more.
  • the aperture can be used to lift the platform from its position on the sports of the ladder, but the panel is for example removed from the ladder by engaging it with both hands, each hand engaging an edge of the panel of the platform.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Ladders (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly comprising a folding ladder and a platform for making a scaffold. The platform comprises a panel with a first securing device and a second securing device for securing the panel on the ladder, and is provided with an aperture through which the first securing device is manually operable from a top side of the platform. The first securing device comprises a latch that is movable between a locking position and an unlocking position, and is provided with a control portion configured to be engaged by hand via the aperture to enable movement of the latch between a locking position and an unlocking position. The latch has a gripper portion for in a locking position engaging a rung to secure the panel on the ladder, and for in an unlocking position disengaging the rung to enable the panel to be removed from the ladder.

Description

Title: Assembly comprising a folding ladder and a platform
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to an assembly for making a scaffold, in particular for making a scaffold comprising a folding ladder and one or more platforms, and to a platform which can be used in combination with a folding ladder.
FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Folding ladders are generally known from the prior art. In a common embodiment, the folding ladder has four section which are connected to one another by means of hinges. The hinges are provided with an (automatic) locking mechanism which ensures the position of the folding ladder sections with respect to one another in (preferably predetermined) positions.
As is generally known, such a folding ladder can be placed in a ‘scaffolding position’, in which the central two folding ladder section form an essentially horizontal bridge and the outer folding ladder sections form the “legs” of the bridge. The known folding ladders have folding ladder sections comprising stiles with rungs between them.
Walking over or standing on the bridge can be quite harmful as one can easily miss the rungs. Also, it is not comfortable to sit on this bridge and it is not easy to place equipment on this bridge.
For above reasons, it is known to combine the folding ladder with a platform which lies on the rungs of the “bridge section” when the folding ladder is being used in the scaffolding position. Assemblies of folding ladders and one or more platforms for making a scaffold are generally known in prior art.
The existing platforms however, are not satisfactory in practice.
W02007/089137A2 describes a plastic platform for a folding ladder with slots to contact the rungs. These slots are recesses in which the rungs are received when the platform is placed on the ladder, to secure the platform on the ladder.
This way of attaching the platform to the ladder works best when the ladder is in a horizontal position. For example, when the ladder is folded after use, and the bridge section is no longer horizontal, the platform may come loose from the ladder. EP0580960A1 describes a platform that can be detachably secured to be immovably mounted to a folding ladder. The platform is provided with a hangable hook element and a fixed hook element. The problem of this type of platforms is that the hingeable hook element can only be operated at the bottom side of the platform. In use, operating the attachment devices at the bottom side of the platform requires a user to sit down on his knees to see what he is doing.
Another publication disclosing an assembly of a folding ladder and a platform is DE19815662A1. The platform has a C-shaped end on one side of the platform to catch the rung of the folding ladder and an l-shaped end on the other side of the platform to make contact with a rung. Mounting such a platform is tedious work since catching the rung with the C-shaped side can be difficult as well as it has the same disadvantage as what is disclosed in W02007/089137A2 as described above.
It is an object of the invention to obviate the problems described hereinabove and in particular to provide an alternative platform folding ladder assembly, preferably an improved platform folding ladder assembly that at least partially obviates one or more of the problems of the prior art. It is a further aspect of the invention to provide a platform folding ladder assembly that is easy to use.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to the present invention, this object is achieved by providing an assembly, comprising a folding ladder and a platform for making a scaffold, according to claim 1.
The folding ladder has two leg sections and two bridge sections, each ladder section comprising two stiles connected by multiple rungs. The leg sections are each hingeable connected to one of the bridge sections such that the folding ladder can be folded into a scaffolding position for supporting the platform on at least one of the bridge sections.
The platform comprises a panel provided with a first securing device and a second securing device for securing the panel on the folding ladder.
The panel has a top surface and a bottom surface. In use the panel rests with its bottom surface on the rungs of at least one of the bridge sections to enable a person to stand on the top surface of the panel. The first securing device and the second securing device are provided on the bottom surface of the panel to secure the panel to the rungs of the bridge section.
The panel is provided with at least one aperture in the panel through which the first securing device is manually operable from a top side of the platform.
The aperture is a through hole that also functions as a grip opening, i.e. an opening for engaging the panel by hand, e.g. for lifting the panel from the ladder. The at least one aperture is provided in the panel such that, when the platform is mounted on a ladder, the at least one aperture is located in the area between two rungs.
The first securing device comprises a latch that is movable, preferably in a direction parallel to the bottom surface of the panel, between a locking position and an unlocking position.
The latch is provided with a control portion, which control portion is configured to be engaged by hand via the aperture to enable movement of the latch between the locking position and the unlocking position. The control portion is configured for being engaged by the hand, preferably by the inside of the fingers, preferably in a gripping way, and thus tobe manipulated by hand via the aperture provided in the panel.
The latch is provided with a gripper portion for, in the locking position, engaging a first rung of the folding ladder on which the panel rests to thus secure the panel on the folding ladder, and for, in the unlocking position, disengaging the first rung to enable the panel to be removed from the folding ladder.
For engaging a second rung of the folding ladder, the second securing device may comprises a fixed hook element, or another securing device known from the prior art.
In such an embodiment, the second securing device may for example be a single body, for example an injection moulded body, that is mounted to the bottom surface of the panel, and is configured to engage a rung of the ladder. In such an embodiment, the second securing body may be similar to the latch of the first securing device, and comprise a gripper portion for engaging a rung, but differ in the aspect that it is fixed in position relative to the panel of the platform.
In an embodiment, the second securing device comprises a fixed hook element, or another securing device known from the prior art, and the panel is provided with a second aperture in the panel. The second aperture is a through hole that functions as a grip opening, i.e. an opening for engaging the panel by hand, e.g. for lifting the panel from the ladder. In such an embodiment, the panel is provided with two of these apertures, located at opposite ends of the panel, such that the left aperture can be engaged with a left hand and the right aperture can be engaged with a right hand. This facilitates lifting the panel from the ladder by hand, more in particular by using two hands.
Preferably, the at second aperture is provided in the panel such that, when the platform is mounted on a ladder, the at least one aperture is located in the area between two rungs.
In an alternative embodiment, for engaging a second rung of the folding ladder, the second securing device is similar to the first securing device and the panel is provided with a second aperture through which the second securing device is operatable from the top side of the platform.
The first securing device according to the invention is, via the aperture, operable from the top surface of the panel. Therefore it is possible to attach/detach the panel from the above, e.g. while standing next to the scaffold, making it easy to (dis)mount the platform.
Furthermore, the at least one aperture in the panel through which the first securing device is manually operable, also provides the platform with a feature for engaging the platform. This is in particular beneficial when the panel is provided with two of these apertures, preferably with similar securing devices each provided with a latch according to the invention, located at opposite ends of the panel, such that the left aperture can be engaged with a left hand and the right aperture can be engaged with a right hand. This facilitates lifting the panel from the ladder by hand, more in particular by using two hands.
Thus, the invention provides an alternative assembly and method for making a scaffold, in particular an alternative assembly, comprising a scaffold comprising a folding ladder and one or more platforms, and an alternative platform that can be used in combination with a folding ladder, that at least partially obviate one or more problems of the prior art.
Also, the invention thus provides an improved assembly, comprising a folding ladder and one or more platforms, i.e. a platform folding ladder assembly, and a platform that can be used in combination with a folding ladder. Furthermore, the invention thus provides a platform folding ladder assembly, and a platform that are easy to use.
In an embodiment, the aperture of the panel is shaped and positioned relative to the first securing device to show the control portion of the latch, at least when in the locking position, from a top side, i.e. the side at the top surface, of the panel. For example, in an embodiment, the aperture is positioned relative to the first securing device such that it is located above the control portion when the latch is in the locking position, and the first securing device is furthermore shaped in such a way that one can see the position of the first securing device from above through the aperture. Thus, the aperture is shaped and positioned such that a user can visually check whether or not the platform is mounted in a safe way or not, preventing at least some misinterpretations of the position of the securing device from happening.
In an embodiment, the second securing device is similar to the first securing device, and the panel is provided with a second aperture through which the second securing device is operable from the top surface of the panel. Preferably, the first and the second securing device are provided on opposite ends of the platform, for securing the panel to opposite ends of a ladder section.
In an embodiment, the first and the second securing device both comprise a latch, wherein the latch of the second securing device is similar to the latch of the first securing device, and wherein the panel is provided with a second aperture through which the second securing device is operable from the top side of the panel.
In an embodiment, the gripper portion has a guide surface, facing away from the bottom surface of the panel. In such an embodiment, the guide surface extends at an angle to the bottom surface of the panel such that, when the latch is in the locking position and the panel is lowered onto the folding ladder section, the contact between the guide surface and the first rung makes the first rung push the latch into the unlocking position.
In such an embodiment, the latch is automatically moved in the unlocking position, if still in the locking position, when the panel is lowered onto the ladder. Thus, the securing device does not block lowering the panel onto the ladder, and the latch is moved and not damaged during the lowering of the panel onto the ladder.
In an embodiment, the second securing device and optionally the first securing device are configured such that they each allow for a pivoting movement of the panel relative to the sport that they engage. Thus, when the second securing device engages a rung of the ladder section, the panel can be pivoted about the sport engaged by the second securing device to lower the end of the panel with the second securing device onto the ladder section, and such that the guide surface of the first securing device engages a rung. Subsequently, the rung pushes against the guide surface, which makes the first securing device to be moved from the locking position into the unlocking position, and allows the platform to be lowered onto the rungs of the ladder section. Subsequently, the securing device can be moved into the locking position, e.g. to hook below the rung, to secure the platform on the ladder section.
In an alternative embodiment, the securing devices do not allow for pivoting of the panel relative to the rung they engage. In such an embodiment, the platform is lowered onto the ladder with the panel parallel to the ladder section. In this embodiment, both securing devices receive a sport at the same time, and can engage the respective sports at the same time.
In an embodiment, the guide surface and the bottom surface of the panel enclose an angle between 40 and 80 degrees, for example an angle between 45 and 75 degrees. The slanting guide surface makes that only a small force is needed to press the platform against the rungs to thus push the gripper portions, and therefore the latch, into the unlocking position. This enables the platform to easily be mounted from above.
In an embodiment, the panel is provided with a locking aperture to enable fixing the securing device in the locking position. The locking aperture is provided in the panel, such that placing a locking body in and through the locking aperture, when the first securing device is in the locking position, makes the locking body engage the latch and makes the locking body block movement of the latch out of the locking position. Thus, the locking body locks the first securing device in a locked state. Furthermore, such an embodiment allows for locking and unlocking the securing device, by inserting and removing the locking body respectively, from the top side of the panel.
Placing a locking body, for example a pin or a combination of a metal t-shaped rod and a padlock, in and through the locking aperture when the first securing device is in a locking position, the locking body engages the latch and blocks movement of the latch out of the locking position. This enable the user to lock the panel to the folding ladder, making theft of the platform burdensome.
In an embodiment, the locking aperture is provided behind the latch of the first securing device, when the latch is in the locking position. In an alternative embodiment, the securing device is provided with a locking aperture as well, which locking aperture overlaps with the locking aperture in the panel, when the securing device is in the locking position. In such an embodiment, the securing device is locked in the locking position by inserting a locking body, e.g. a pin, into both the locking aperture in the panel and the locking aperture of the latch.
In an embodiment, the first securing device comprises a latch which comprises an aperture or recess for manually engaging the latch and the aperture or recess overlaps with the aperture in the panel when the latch is in the locking position, and when the latch is in the unlocking position.
This configuration enables the possibility to lock the platform by using a locking body that fills at least part of the aperture or recess in the latch and at least part of the aperture in the panel when the latch is in the locking position, such that the locking body locks the first securing device in a locked state, preventing accidental movement of the latch.
In an embodiment, the assembly comprises a locking body, the locking body having a shape that fits at least part of the aperture or recess in the latch and at least part of the aperture in the panel when the latch is in the locking position, to lock the first securing device in a locking locked state.
In an embodiment, the width of the panel is equal to the distance between the stiles of the folding ladder. This enables the panel to be secured by the stiles of the folding ladder in a direction perpendicular to a longitudinal direction of the stiles. Thus locking the panel between the stiles limits movements of the platform, hence improving safety. Furthermore, in such a configuration, the first and the second securing device only have to secure the panel in a direction parallel to the stiles of the ladder to fix the position of the platform relative to the ladder.
In a further embodiment, the panel has a length similar to the length of a bridge section of the ladder, such that the platform and a second similar platform can be mounted on the first and second bridge section of the ladder respectively, and the panels together extend along the combined length of the two bridge sections.
In a further embodiment, the panel has a hight equal to or lower than the distance between the edge of the stile and a surface of the rung, such that the panel and a second similar panel can be mounted on the first and second bridge section of the folding ladder, and the bridge sections can still be folded onto each other with the top surfaces of the panel facing each other. Thus the folding ladder is foldable with the panels attached to the folding ladder, making it possible for example, to store the folding ladder in a folding position without have to detach the platforms. In an embodiment, the first securing device comprises a housing, wherein the latch is movable mounted in the housing. In a further embodiment, the first securing device is mounted with the housing to the panel.
In an embodiment, the first securing devices comprises a spring element and a spring element fixer, for example a pin or a cavity. The spring element connects the spring element fixer and the latch such that it forces the latch into the locking position. This makes the platform fixate itself once it is brought into the correct position on the folding ladder. Hence, the platform is easier in use. This embodiment is in particular advantageous when the securing device comprises a latch having a gripper portion with a guide surface that extends at an angle to the bottom surface of the panel such that, when the latch is in the locking position and the panel is lowered onto the folding ladder section, first the guide surface and the first rung make that the latch is moved into the unlocking position and subsequently the spring pushes the latch in the locking position. This further facilitates mounting the platform on a ladder.
In an embodiment, the panel, when the platform is mounted on the bridge section, covers at least three rungs, and at least one of the rungs covered by the panel is located between a rung that is engaged by the first securing device and a side of the platform. Possibly two of the rungs are engaged by securing devices and at least one rung is between the rungs that are engaged.
In an embodiment, the aperture of the panel is open at one side. Preferably, at least a part of the first securing device extends between the sides of the panel to form a closed aperture.
In an embodiment, the platform is a first platform and the assembly furthermore comprises a second platform, and in use the first platform is mounted on one of the bridge sections and the second platform is mounted on the other one of the bridge sections.
In a further embodiment, the panel of first platform is longer than the panel of the second platform, and, when the first and the second platform are mounted on the bridge sections, the panel of the first platform overlaps with the bridge section onto which the second platform is mounted. In such an embodiment, the first platform is secured on both the first and the second bridge section, which may enhance to overall rigidity of the scaffold.
In an embodiment, the platform is provided with three or more securing devices, the securing devices being positioned on the panel to each engage a different rung of the ladder. The invention furthermore provides platform for providing an assembly according to any of the preceding claims.
The invention fu rthermore provides a method for obtaining a scaffold by placing one or more platforms according to the invention on a folding ladder in scaffolding position. In an embodiment, the method comprises method comprises folding the ladder in a position with the bridge sections in line with each other, and with the leg sections at an angle to the bridge sections, and placing at least one platform on at least one of the bridge sections.
In a further method according to the invention, the gripper portion has a guide surface, facing away from the bottom surface of the panel, which guide surface extends at an angle to the bottom surface of the panel such that, when the latch is in the locking position and the panel is lowered onto the folding ladder section, the contact between the guide surface and the first rung makes the first rung push the latch into the unlocking position. The method comprises the step: when placing the at least one platform on at least one of the bridge sections, lowering a part of the panel with the latch onto the folding ladder such that the guide surface of the latch engages a rung and the rung thus pushes the latch into the unlocking position.
The invention furthermore provides a platform, for in combination with a ladder providing an assembly according to the invention.
In an embodiment according to the invention, the platform comprises: a panel provided with a first securing device and a second securing device for securing the panel on the folding ladder, wherein the panel has a top surface and a bottom surface, and wherein the platform is configured to in rest with the bottom surface on rungs and between stiles of a bridge sections of a folding ladder to enable a person to stand on the top surface of the bridge panel, wherein the first securing device and the second securing device are provided on the bottom surface of the panel to secure the panel to the rungs of the bridge section, wherein the panel is provided with a first aperture in the panel through which the first securing device is manually operable from the a top side of the platform, and is provided with a second aperture in the panel through which the second securing device is manually operable from the a top side of the platform, wherein, the first securing device and the second securing device comprise a latch that is movable, preferably in a direction parallel to the bottom surface of the panel, between a locking position and an unlocking position, and wherein each latch is provided with a control portion, which control portion is configured to be engaged by hand via the respective aperture to enable movement of the latch between the locking position and the unlocking position, and wherein the control portion can be manipulated by hand via the aperture, and wherein each latch is provided with a gripper portion for, in the locking position, engaging a first rung of the folding ladder on which the panel rests to thus secure the panel on the folding ladder, and for, in the unlocking position, disengaging the rung to enable the panel to be removed from the folding ladder, and preferably wherein each gripper portion has a guide surface, facing away from the bottom surface of the panel, which guide surface extends at an angle to the bottom surface of the panel such that, when the latch is in the locking position and the panel is lowered onto the folding ladder section, the contact between the guide surface and the first rung makes the first rung push the latch into the unlocking position.
In an embodiment, the panel of the platform is made of a wood or wood based material, for example shuttering plywood. In an alternative embodiment, the panel is a metal panel, for example made of aluminium, or a plastic panel.
Further objects, embodiments and elaborations of the assembly, the platform, and the method according to the invention will be apparent from the following description, in which the invention is further illustrated and elucidated on the basis of a number of exemplary embodiments, with reference to the drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS In the drawings; Fig. 1 shows a perspective top view of an exemplary embodiment of an assembly according to the invention with a folding ladder in a scaffolding position and with two platforms secured on bridge sections of the folding ladder;
Fig. 2 shows a perspective bottom view of a first securing device of a platform of the assembly of Fig. 1 ;
Fig. 3 shows a perspective bottom view of the first securing device of Fig. 2 in use in an unlocking position;
Fig. 4 shows a perspective bottom view of the first securing device of Fig. 2 in use in an locking position;
Fig. 5 shows perspective top view of a panel of the assembly of Fig. 1 being lowered onto a bridge section of a folding ladder;
Fig. 6 shows a perspective top view of the top side of a panel positioned on a folding ladder from the scaffold of Fig. 1;
Fig. 7 shows a perspective bottom view of the assembly of Fig.1 with two platforms secured on bridge sections of the folding ladder.; and
Fig. 8 shows a perspective top view of the assembly of Fig. 1 with the folding ladder in a folded position and with two platforms secured on bridge sections of the folding ladder.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
First the invention will be further elucidated on the basis of the exemplary embodiment of an assembly according to the invention as shown in Figs. 1-6.
Figure 1 shows an assembly 1 of a folding ladder 2 in scaffolding position and two exemplary embodiments of a platform 3 according to the invention.
The assembly 1 comprises the folding ladder 2 and the platforms 3 for making a scaffold 4.
The folding ladder 2 is composed of four sections in the usual way, which are connected to one another by hinges. Each of the hinges is provided with an automatic locking mechanism which ensures the position of the folding ladder sections with respect to one another in predefined positions.
In the illustrated "scaffolding position", the central two folding ladder sections, or bridge sections 6, form an essentially horizontal bridge and the outer folding ladder sections, or leg sections 5, form the "legs" of the bridge. Thus, the folding ladder 2 has two leg sections 5 and two bridge sections 6. The bridge sections 3 are provided at their free ends with a ground support, in this case a transverse beam having supporting feet. Each of the ladder sections 5,6 comprises two stiles 7 connected by multiple rungs 8. The leg sections 5 are each hingeable connected to one of the bridge sections 6 such that the folding ladder 2 can be folded into the scaffolding position for supporting the platforms 3 on the bridge sections 6.
The platforms 3 are situated on the rungs of the bridge sections 6 when the folding ladder 2 is being used in the scaffolding position.
The platforms 3 each comprise a panel 9 provided with a first securing device 10 and a second securing device 11 for securing the panel on the folding ladder 2.
The panel 9 has a top surface 12 and a bottom surface 13. In use, each panel rests with its bottom surface 13 on the rungs 8 of one of the bridge sections 6 to enable a person to stand on the top surface 12 of the panel 9.
The first securing device 10 and the second securing device 11 are provided on the bottom surface 13 of the panel 9 to secure the panel to the rungs 8 of the bridge section 6.
According to the invention, the panel 9 is provided with at least one aperture 14 in the panel through which the first securing device is manually operable from a top side of the platform. In the particular embodiment shown, the second securing device 11 , for engaging a second rung of the folding ladder, is similar to the first securing device 10, , i.e. comprises a latch similar to the latch of the first securing device. Furthermore, the panel 9 is provided with a second aperture 15 through which the second securing device is operatable from the top side of the platform 3.
In an alternative embodiment, the second securing device, for engaging a second rung of the folding ladder, comprises a fixed hook element. In such an embodiment, the second securing device may for example be a single body, for example an injection moulded body, that is mounted to the bottom surface of the panel, and is configured to engage a rung of the ladder. In such an embodiment, the second securing body may be similar to the latch of the first securing device, and comprise a gripper portion for engaging a rung, but differ in the aspect that it is fixed in position relative to the panel of the platform.
The first securing device 10 comprises a latch 16 that is movable, in a direction parallel to the bottom surface 13 of the panel 9, between a locking position and an unlocking position. The first securing device 10 comprises a housing 20, and the latch 16 is movable mounted in the housing 20. The first securing device 10 is mounted with the housing 20 to the panel 9.
The latch 16 is provided with a control portion 17, which control portion is configured to be engaged by hand via the aperture 14 to enable movement of the latch between the locking position and the unlocking position. The control portion 17 can be manipulated by hand via the aperture.
The latch 16 is furthermore provided with a gripper portion 18 for, when the latch is in the locking position, engaging a first rung 8 of the folding ladder 2 on which the panel 9 rests to thus secure the panel on the folding ladder 2, and for, in the unlocking position, disengaging the rung 8 to enable the panel 9 to be removed from the folding ladder 2.
In the embodiment shown, the aperture 14 of the panel 9 is shaped and positioned relative to the first securing device 10 to show the control portion 17 of the latch 16, at least when in the locking position, from a top side, i.e. the side at the top surface 12, of the panel.
Figure 6 shows a perspective top view of the platform 3, with the latch 16 in the locking position, and with the control portion 17 of the latch 16 visible via the aperture 15 to provide a user with a visual confirmation that the latch 16 is in the locking position, and thus secures the platform 3 on the folding ladder 2,
A close-up of an embodiment of the first securing device 10 is shown in Figures 2-4. Figure 2 shows the securing device 10 in isolation. Figures 3 and 4 show the securing device in use with the latch 16 of the securing device 10 respectively in the disengaging position and the engaging position.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, the gripper portion 18 has a guide surface 19. The guide surface 19 faces away from the bottom surface 13 of the panel 9. Furthermore, the guide surface 19 extends at an angle to the bottom surface 13 of the panel 9 such that, when the latch 16 is in the locking position and the panel 9 is lowered onto the bridge section 6 of the folding ladder 2, see Figure 5, the contact between the guide surface 19 and the first rung 8 makes the first rung push the latch into the unlocking position.
In Figure 3 the securing device 10 is shown right after placement of the platform 3 on the bridge section 6 of the folding ladder 2. The latch 16 is in the unlocking position. Figure 4 shows the securing device 10 with the latch 16 in the locking position. In this position, the gripper portion 18 engages a rung 8 of the folding ladder 2 and thus secures the platform 3 on the folding ladder 2.
In the embodiment shown, the latch 16 has an aperture 21 for manually engaging the latch. The aperture 21 overlaps with the aperture 14 in the panel 9 when the latch is in the locking position, see Figure 6, and when the latch is in the unlocking position.
In an alternative embodiment, the latch is not provided with an aperture, i.e. a through opening in the latch, but is provided with a recess. In such an embodiment, the recess overlaps with the aperture in the panel when the latch is in the locking position, and when the latch is in the unlocking position.
In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first securing device 10 comprises a spring element and a spring element fixer. In the embodiment shown, the spring elements is mounted in a channel within the latch 16. The spring engages an end of a spring element fixer in the form of a pin 22, which pin is part of the housing 20. The pin 22 has an end that is received in the channel in the latch 16, such that the spring in the channel is positioned between the latch and the pin 22, and thus pushes the latch away from the pin, i.e. pushes the latch into the locking position, see Figure 4.
Figure 5 shows a way of placing the platform 3 onto the folding ladder 2, where during placing the guide surface 19 of the latch 16 of the platform 3 engages a rung 8 and the rung thus pushes the latch into the unlocking position.
Fig. 6 shows the top side of the panel from which a person can operate the first securing device. Through the aperture of the panel it is visible that the securing device is in its locking position. By operating the securing device from the top surface of the panel, one unlocks the securing device and can subsequently lift the platform from its position.
Figure 7 shows from below the platforms 3 of the assembly 1 of Figure 1 in the mounted condition. Both platforms 3 are provided with two similar securing devices 10,11. In the particular embodiments, the panels, when the platforms are mounted on the bridge section, cover three rungs. In these embodiments, two of these rungs are engaged by the first and the second securing device, and one of these rungs is located between the rungs that are engaged by the first securing device and the second securing device. In the particular embodiments shown, the panels 9 have a length and a width, and the width is equal to the distance between stiles 7 of the folding ladder 2, see for example Figure 6. This enables the panels 9 to be secured by the stiles 7 of the folding ladder in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the stiles 7. Thus locking the panels 9 between the stiles limits movement of the platforms, hence improving safety. Furthermore, in such a configuration, the first and the second securing device 10,11 only have to secure the panels 9 in a direction parallel to the stiles 7 of the folding ladder 2 to fix the position of the platform 3 relative to the folding ladder 2.
In the embodiment shown, the panels 9 have a height lower than the distance between an edge of the stiles 7 and a surface of the rung 8. Furthermore, the panels 9 have a length similar to the length of the bridge sections 6 of the folding ladder 2, such that a panel and a second similar panel can be mounted on the first and second bridge section of the ladder respectively, and the bridge sections can still be folded onto each other with the top surfaces of the panels facing each other. Such a configuration of the assembly, i.e. with the folding ladder in a folded condition, is shown in Figure 8.
In an embodiment, the assembly furthermore comprises a locking body for fixing the latch of the securing device in the locking position, and thus fixing the securing device in a locking state.
In an embodiment, the platform comprises a locking aperture located in the panel, and the locking aperture and the locking body are configured such that placing the locking body in and through the locking aperture, when the first securing device is in the locking position, the locking body engages the latch and blocks movement of the latch out of the locking position. Thus, the locking body locks the securing device in a locking state.
By fixing the latch in the locking position, to lock the first securing device in a locked state, one can prevent others from operating the platform, and for example prevent unwanted removal of the panels from the ladder.
In an embodiment, the aperture in the panel, for engaging the latch, is dimensioned for receiving one or more fingers to manipulate, i.e. move the latch into the unlocking position. In an embodiment, the aperture is not configured for to receive all fingers, but only one or more. In such an embodiment, the aperture can be used to lift the platform from its position on the sports of the ladder, but the panel is for example removed from the ladder by engaging it with both hands, each hand engaging an edge of the panel of the platform. Reference signs
01 assembly
02 Folding ladder
03 Platform
04 Scaffold
05 leg section
06 bridge section
07 Stiles
08 rung
09 panel
10 first securing device
11 second securing device
12 top surface
13 bottom surface
14 aperture in the panel
15 second aperture in the panel
16 latch
17 control portion of the latch
18 gripper portion
19 guide surface
20 housing
21 Aperture for engaging latch
22 Pin for contacting spring

Claims

C L A I M S
1. Assembly comprising a folding ladder and a platform for making a scaffold, wherein the folding ladder has two leg sections and two bridge sections, each comprising two stiles connected by multiple rungs, and wherein the leg sections are each hingeable connected to one of the bridge sections such that the folding ladder can be folded into a scaffolding position for supporting the platform on at least one of the bridge sections, wherein the platform comprises a panel provided with a first securing device and a second securing device for securing the panel on the folding ladder, wherein the panel has a top surface and a bottom surface, and wherein in use the panel rests with its bottom surface on the rungs of at least one of the bridge sections to enable a person to stand on the top surface of the panel, wherein the first securing device and the second securing device are provided on the bottom surface of the panel to secure the panel to the rungs of the bridge section, wherein the panel is provided with at least one aperture in the panel through which the first securing device is manually operable from a top side of the platform, wherein, the first securing device comprises a latch that is movable, preferably in a direction parallel to the bottom surface of the panel, between a locking position and an unlocking position, and wherein the latch is provided with a control portion, which control portion is configured to be engaged by hand via the aperture to enable movement of the latch between the locking position and the unlocking position, and wherein the control portion can be manipulated by hand via the aperture, and wherein the latch is provided with a gripper portion for, in the locking position, engaging a first rung of the folding ladder on which the panel rests to thus secure the panel on the folding ladder, and for, in the unlocking position, disengaging the rung to enable the panel to be removed from the folding ladder.
2. Assembly according to claim 1 , wherein, for engaging a second rung of the folding ladder, the second securing device comprises a hook element.
3. Assembly according to claim 1, wherein, for engaging a second rung of the folding ladder, the second securing device is similar to the first securing device, i.e. comprises a latch similar to the latch of the first securing device, and wherein the panel is provided with a second aperture through which the second securing device is operatable from the top side of the platform.
4. Assembly according to any of the claims 1-3, wherein the aperture of the panel is shaped and positioned relative to the first securing device to show the control portion of the latch, at least when first securing device is in the locking position, from a top side, i.e. the side at the top surface, of the panel.
5. Assembly according to any of the claims 1-4, wherein the gripper portion has a guide surface, facing away from the bottom surface of the panel, which guide surface extends at an angle to the bottom surface of the panel such that, when the latch is in the locking position and the panel is lowered onto the folding ladder, the contact between the guide surface and the first rung makes the first rung push the latch into the unlocking position.
6. Assembly according to any of the claims 1-5, wherein the platform further comprises a locking aperture located in the panel, wherein placing a locking body in and through the locking aperture when the first securing device is in the locking position, the locking body engages the latch and blocks movement of the latch out of the locking position and thus locks the first securing device in a locked state.
7. Assembly according to any of the claims 1-6 wherein the panel has a length and a width, and wherein the width is equal to the distance between stiles of the folding ladder.
8. Assembly according to claim 7, wherein the panel has height equal to or lower than the distance between an edge of the stile an the top surface of the rung, and the panel preferably has length similar to the length of a bridge section of the ladder, such that the panel and a second similar panel can be mounted on the first and second bridge section of the ladder respectively, and the bridge sections can still be folded onto each other with the top surfaces of the panels facing each other.
9. Assembly according to any of the claims 1-8, in which the first securing device comprises a housing, wherein the latch is movable mounted in the housing, and wherein the housing is mounted to the panel.
10. Assembly according to any of the claims 1-9, wherein the latch has an aperture or recess for manually engaging the latch, and wherein the aperture or recess overlaps with the aperture in the panel when the latch is in the locking position, and when the latch is in the unlocking position.
11. Assembly according to claim 10, wherein the assembly comprises a locking body, the locking body having a shape that fits at least part of the aperture or recess in the latch and at least part of the aperture in the panel when the latch is in the locking position, to lock the first securing device in a locked state.
12. Assembly according to any of the claims 1-11 , in which the first securing device comprises a spring element and a spring element fixer, for example a pin or a cavity, wherein the spring element connects the spring element fixer and the latch such that it forces the latch into the locking position.
13. Assembly according to any of the claims 1-12, wherein, when the platform is mounted on the bridge section, the panel covers at least three rungs, wherein two of these rungs are engaged by the first and the second securing device, and at least one of these rungs is located between the rungs that are engaged by the first securing device and the second securing device.
14. Assembly according to any of the claims 1-13, wherein the platform is a first platform and the assembly furthermore comprises a second platform, which second platform is similar to the first platform and has the same securing devices as the first platform, and wherein in use the first platform is mounted on one of the bridge sections and the second platform is mounted on the other one of the bridge sections.
15. Assembly according to claim 14, wherein the panel of the first platform is longer than the panel of the second platform, and wherein, when the first and the second platform are mounted on the bridge sections, the panel of the first platform overlaps with the bridge section onto which the second platform is mounted.
16. Platform for providing an assembly according to any of the claims 1-15.
17. Method of making a scaffold by placing one or more platforms according to claim 16 on a folding ladder in scaffolding position, the method comprising: folding the ladder in a position with the bridge sections in line with each other, and with the leg sections at an angle to the bridge sections, and placing at least one platform on at least one of the bridge sections.
18. Method according to claim 17, wherein the gripper portion has a guide surface, facing away from the bottom surface of the panel, which guide surface extends at an angle to the bottom surface of the panel such that, when the latch is in the locking position and the panel is lowered onto the folding ladder section, the contact between the guide surface and the first rung makes the first rung push the latch into the unlocking position, and wherein the method further comprises the step: when placing the at least one platform on at least one of the bridge sections, lowering a part of the panel with the latch onto the folding ladder such that the guide surface of the latch engages a rung and the rung thus pushes the latch into the unlocking position.
PCT/EP2022/081789 2021-11-12 2022-11-14 Assembly comprising a folding ladder and a platform WO2023084078A1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP22817682.2A EP4430253A1 (en) 2021-11-12 2022-11-14 Assembly comprising a folding ladder and a platform
CN202280075292.8A CN118434949A (en) 2021-11-12 2022-11-14 Assembly comprising a folding ladder and a platform

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL2029736A NL2029736B1 (en) 2021-11-12 2021-11-12 Assembly comprising a folding ladder and a platform
NL2029736 2021-11-12

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2023084078A1 true WO2023084078A1 (en) 2023-05-19

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EP (1) EP4430253A1 (en)
CN (2) CN118434949A (en)
NL (1) NL2029736B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2023084078A1 (en)

Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0580960A1 (en) 1992-07-23 1994-02-02 KRAUSE-WERK GMBH & CO. KG Ladder platform
JPH094216A (en) * 1995-06-23 1997-01-07 Tatsuo Ono Scaffolding board
DE19815662A1 (en) 1998-04-08 1999-10-21 Helmut Lechner Trestle plates for hanging from ladder rungs
WO2007089137A2 (en) 2006-02-03 2007-08-09 Lampe Holding B.V. A plastic platform for a foldable ladder, a ladder with telescopical sections and a ladder with a stabilizer beam
KR20120064527A (en) * 2010-12-09 2012-06-19 한국남부발전 주식회사 Safety scaffolding for work
JP2013076253A (en) * 2011-09-30 2013-04-25 Lalique:Kk Floating prevention structure for scaffold board
CN107152165A (en) * 2017-06-26 2017-09-12 西安汾阳钢结构有限公司 A kind of scaffold board

Patent Citations (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0580960A1 (en) 1992-07-23 1994-02-02 KRAUSE-WERK GMBH & CO. KG Ladder platform
JPH094216A (en) * 1995-06-23 1997-01-07 Tatsuo Ono Scaffolding board
DE19815662A1 (en) 1998-04-08 1999-10-21 Helmut Lechner Trestle plates for hanging from ladder rungs
WO2007089137A2 (en) 2006-02-03 2007-08-09 Lampe Holding B.V. A plastic platform for a foldable ladder, a ladder with telescopical sections and a ladder with a stabilizer beam
KR20120064527A (en) * 2010-12-09 2012-06-19 한국남부발전 주식회사 Safety scaffolding for work
JP2013076253A (en) * 2011-09-30 2013-04-25 Lalique:Kk Floating prevention structure for scaffold board
CN107152165A (en) * 2017-06-26 2017-09-12 西安汾阳钢结构有限公司 A kind of scaffold board

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
CN118434949A (en) 2024-08-02
CN219158344U (en) 2023-06-09
NL2029736B1 (en) 2023-06-08
EP4430253A1 (en) 2024-09-18

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