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EP1109987A1 - Portable support structure useful as ladder or stepladder - Google Patents

Portable support structure useful as ladder or stepladder

Info

Publication number
EP1109987A1
EP1109987A1 EP99936691A EP99936691A EP1109987A1 EP 1109987 A1 EP1109987 A1 EP 1109987A1 EP 99936691 A EP99936691 A EP 99936691A EP 99936691 A EP99936691 A EP 99936691A EP 1109987 A1 EP1109987 A1 EP 1109987A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
stringer
structure according
ramp
steps
feet
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP99936691A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1109987B1 (en
Inventor
Bernard Clavel
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
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 Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of EP1109987A1 publication Critical patent/EP1109987A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1109987B1 publication Critical patent/EP1109987B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • 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
    • E06C1/382—Tripod ladders
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06C—LADDERS
    • E06C7/00—Component parts, supporting parts, or accessories
    • E06C7/08—Special construction of longitudinal members, or rungs or other treads
    • E06C7/081—Rungs or other treads comprising anti-slip features

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a portable support structure that may be foldable, usable as a ladder or stepladder to allow a person to move, in particular to climb or descend, for example to reach otherwise inaccessible objects or to overcome obstacles.
  • These uprights have, at one of their ends, bearing surfaces on the ground possibly equipped with pads.
  • the two other ends of the uprights are, for their part, intended to come to bear on a bearing surface, for example on a vertical wall (in the case of a simple ladder) or are articulated to a support structure which may consist of a second ladder (case of the double scale).
  • the uprights constitute strings carrying steps in place of steps.
  • the support structure comprises two parallel uprights connected to each other by crosspieces as well as to the stringers by disconnectable bracing means.
  • this support polygon is variable depending on the location of the scale support points, while nothing allows the user to indicate the position of its center of gravity vis-à-vis this polygon.
  • the user can therefore be in imbalance and fall without a warning sign warning him of the danger.
  • this structure comprises at least:
  • a stringer the two ends of which are intended to come to bear on two fixed elements, one of these elements being able to consist of the ground and the other, a fixed object situated above the ground,
  • a ramp integral with the stringer, which extends vertically from the latter, at a distance from the steps less than the average length of a leg, so that a user can move on the steps by stepping over the ramp.
  • the user can hold onto the structure by squeezing the ramp between his legs, without having to use his hands, which remain free for example to carry out work.
  • the steps may include means for lateral blocking of the feet so as to ensure a better structure / user connection, when the latter clamps the ramp between his legs.
  • Figures 1 and 2 are perspective views 3/4 front (Figure 1) and 3/4 rear ( Figure 2) of a ladder / stepladder according to the invention
  • Figure 3 is a front view of the ladder / stepladder shown in Figures 1 and 2;
  • Figure 4 shows the ladder / stepladder in the folded state.
  • the stringer 1 of the ladder / stepladder is constituted by two longitudinal members 2, 3 each consisting of an aluminum profile of rectangular section. These two longitudinal members 2, 3 extend parallel to each other and are joined to one another by means of two series of oblique bracing rods 4, 5 - 4 ', 5', fixed on the side members 2, 3 by their ends.
  • This spar 3 carries a ramp 7 of circular section which extends above the stringer 1 in the same vertical plane.
  • the ramp 7 is fixed to the stringer 1 by a series of collars fixed to the spar 3. In its upper part, the ramp 7 forms an elbow 9 partially surrounding the end of the spar 3.
  • the spar 2 supports, for its part, a succession of double steps Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 which each extend transversely on either side of the vertical plane of the stringer 1.
  • these double steps Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 each include two plates P which extend horizontally on either side of the plane of the stringer 1 and which are carried by tabular crosspieces T coming to be fixed by bolting on a pair of horizontal rods 4, 5.
  • This pair of horizontal links 4, 5 is here braced by a pair of oblique links 4 ', 5' which extends in the gap formed between said links 4, 5 and the step which is located just below.
  • the plates P are provided with non-slip raised elements and each have, at their lateral edges, an upward fold R serving to prevent the feet of the user from being able to slip laterally.
  • the pair of horizontal rods 4, 5 located at the upper end of the stringer 1 supports a shelf TB also non-slip on which an object, for example a paint can, can be placed.
  • This pair of rods 4 ", 5", of larger cross section than those of the rods 4, 5, carries below the shelf a cross-member TR on the ends of which two feet Pi, P 2 terminated at their lower ends by pads on the ground 11, 12.
  • these feet Pi, P 2 form with the spar 3 a tripod which delimits a prismatic volume inside which the steps Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 are located below the spar 3.
  • the two feet P 15 P 2 are secured to each other by means of a disconnectable cross-member TD.
  • the ladder / stepladder offers the user unequaled stability and security.
  • the ladder / stepladder Due to its tripod structure, the ladder / stepladder can be placed on possibly uneven floors, it being understood that the user will endeavor to arrange it so that its plane of symmetry is vertical. In all cases, the user mounted on the ladder / stepladder can "be one with it” by squeezing the ramp between his legs. As a result, the vertical plane of symmetry of the user in which his center of gravity is located is reduced to the vertical plane of symmetry of the ladder / stepladder (bisector plane of the dihedron formed by the stringer 1 and the two feet Pi, P 2 ).
  • the vertical of the center of gravity of the ladder / stepladder user assembly therefore necessarily passes inside the support polygon of the ladder / stepladder.
  • the stability of the assembly is therefore guaranteed.
  • ladder / stepladder Another important advantage of the previously described ladder / stepladder is that it can be folded up to occupy, in the folded state, only a very small volume. In this position, the user can use the ramp 7 to carry the ladder / stepladder.
  • the two feet can come back against the stringer 1, so that the volume of the assembly, in the folded state, is reduced substantially to the dimensions of the stringer 1 and the steps Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 ( Figure 4).
  • the steps Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 may occupy positions offset in height by approximately 21 cm, the stringer being inclined by approximately 30 ° .
  • the width of the stringer 1 (distance separating its upper and lower edges) is such that the vertical plumb with the first third of a step intersects the upper edge of the "stringer" at a height of about 40 cm.
  • the ramp 7 is located about 40 cm above the steps so as to be able to come into contact between the calves and the user's knees.
  • each foot Pi, P 2 of the ladder / stepladder may be adjustable in length so as to allow adjustment of verticality, in particular in the case of uneven ground.
  • each foot Pi, P 2 may comprise two elements which telescopically interlock with one another and fixing means making it possible to secure the two elements in the axial position corresponding to the length of the foot which is desire to obtain.
  • the aforementioned ramp may consist of the upper spar 3 of the stringer 1. This may be extended beyond its upper end by a section of ramp which engages telescopically in the spar 3. A multiposition axial locking of this section in the spar can then be provided by any known fixing means.
  • the upper end of this section may be fitted with a hook or the like, which can be used to hang an object, for example a pot or a basket.
  • the feet will be oriented so that the upper end of the stringer 1 is located substantially vertically of the barycenter of the triangle formed by the pads 6, 11, 12.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Ladders (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns a support structure characterised in that it comprises at least: a shaft (1) whereof the two ends are designed to be urged to rest on two fixed elements, one of which may be the ground and the other, a fixed object located above the ground; two series of steps (M1, M'1-2, M'2-M3, M'3) fixed on the shaft, on either side thereof respectively; and a ramp (7), integral with the shaft (1) extending vertically with respect thereto, at a distance from the steps (M1, M'1-M2, M'2-M3, M'3) less than the average length of a leg, such that a user can move on the steps (M1, M'1-M2, M'2-M3, M'3) by striding over the ramp (7). Said structure enables the user to stand on the steps with greater stability while keeping his hands free.

Description

STRUCTURE SUPPORT PORTATIVE UTILISABLE EN TANT QU'ECHELLE OU ESCABEAU. PORTABLE SUPPORT STRUCTURE THAT CAN BE USED AS A LADDER OR STEP.
La présente invention concerne une structure support portative éventuellement repliable, utilisable en tant qu'échelle ou escabeau pour permettre à une personne de se déplacer, notamment de monter ou de descendre, par exemple pour atteindre des objets autrement inaccessibles ou pour franchir des obstacles.The present invention relates to a portable support structure that may be foldable, usable as a ladder or stepladder to allow a person to move, in particular to climb or descend, for example to reach otherwise inaccessible objects or to overcome obstacles.
D'une façon générale, on sait que les échelles classiques se composent de deux montants parallèles ou légèrement convergents réunis de place en place par des barreaux transversaux ou échelons servant de marches.Generally, we know that conventional ladders consist of two parallel or slightly convergent uprights joined together from place to place by transverse bars or steps serving as steps.
Ces montants présentent, à l'une de leurs extrémités, des surfaces d'appui au sol éventuellement équipées de patins. Les deux autres extrémités des montants sont, quant à elles, destinées à venir porter sur une surface d'appui, par exemple sur une paroi verticale (cas d'une échelle simple) ou sont articulées à une structure support pouvant consister en une deuxième échelle (cas de l'échelle double).These uprights have, at one of their ends, bearing surfaces on the ground possibly equipped with pads. The two other ends of the uprights are, for their part, intended to come to bear on a bearing surface, for example on a vertical wall (in the case of a simple ladder) or are articulated to a support structure which may consist of a second ladder (case of the double scale).
Dans le cas d'un escabeau, les montants constituent des limons portant des marches en lieu et place des échelons. Dans ce cas, la structure support comprend deux montants parallèles reliés entre eux par des traverses ainsi qu'aux limons par des moyens d'entretoisement déconnectables. Il s'avère qu'en règle générale, pour assurer son équilibre, l'utilisateur monté sur une échelle est souvent obligé de se tenir d'une main sur les barreaux ou sur le montant et ne dispose donc pas de toute la liberté de mouvement qu'il souhaiterait avoir. Cet inconvénient est particulièrement préjudiciable lorsque l'utilisateur doit effectuer des travaux, par exemple des travaux de peinture nécessitant l'usage simultané des deux mains.In the case of a stepladder, the uprights constitute strings carrying steps in place of steps. In this case, the support structure comprises two parallel uprights connected to each other by crosspieces as well as to the stringers by disconnectable bracing means. It turns out that, as a general rule, to ensure balance, the user mounted on a ladder is often obliged to hold one hand on the bars or on the upright and therefore does not have all the freedom of movement that he would like to have. This drawback is particularly detrimental when the user must carry out work, for example painting work requiring the simultaneous use of both hands.
Un autre problème que posent les solutions classiques concerne la stabilité de l'échelle et les risques de chute de l'utilisateur, étant entendu que cette stabilité ne peut être atteinte que si la projection verticale du centre de gravité de l'utilisateur et/ou de l'échelle se trouve à l'intérieur du polygone de sustentation de l'échelle, c'est-à-dire un polygone formé par la projection verticale, dans un plan horizontal des points d'appui de l'échelle.Another problem posed by conventional solutions concerns the stability of the ladder and the risks of the user falling, it being understood that this stability can only be achieved if the vertical projection of the user's center of gravity and / or of the scale is inside the support polygon of the scale, that is to say a polygon formed by the vertical projection, in a horizontal plane of the support points of the scale.
Or, les dimensions de ce polygone de sustentation sont variables selon l'emplacement des points d'appui de l'échelle, tandis que rien ne permet à l'utilisateur d'indiquer la position de son centre de gravité vis-à-vis de ce polygone.However, the dimensions of this support polygon are variable depending on the location of the scale support points, while nothing allows the user to indicate the position of its center of gravity vis-à-vis this polygon.
L'utilisateur peut donc se trouver en déséquilibre et chuter sans qu'un signe précurseur ne l'ait averti du danger.The user can therefore be in imbalance and fall without a warning sign warning him of the danger.
Cet inconvénient se manifeste tout particulièrement dans le cas des échelles doubles ou des escabeaux qui comportent quatre points d'appui au sol : Compte tenu des irrégularités de forme du sol, l'échelle ou l'escabeau ne repose en fait, le plus souvent, que sur trois pieds, ce qui diminue considérablement les dimensions du polygone de sustentation. En outre, la verticalité de l'échelle ou de l'escabeau est relativement difficile à obtenir, ce qui accroît d'autant les risques de chute. L'invention a donc tout particulièrement pour but de supprimer ces inconvénients et de résoudre ces problèmes. Elle se propose de parvenir à ces résultats au moyen d'une structure relativement simple facilement repliable et néanmoins peu coûteuse.This drawback manifests itself particularly in the case of double ladders or stepladders which have four support points on the ground: Given the irregularities in the shape of the ground, the ladder or stepladder does not actually rest, most often, than on three feet, which considerably reduces the dimensions of the support polygon. In addition, the verticality of the ladder or stepladder is relatively difficult to obtain, which further increases the risk of falling. The invention therefore particularly aims to eliminate these drawbacks and solve these problems. It intends to achieve these results by means of a relatively simple structure which is easily foldable and nevertheless inexpensive.
Selon l'invention, cette structure comprend au moins :According to the invention, this structure comprises at least:
- un limon dont les deux extrémités sont destinées à venir en appui sur deux éléments fixes, l'un de ces éléments pouvant consister en le sol et l'autre, un objet fixe situé au-dessus du sol,a stringer, the two ends of which are intended to come to bear on two fixed elements, one of these elements being able to consist of the ground and the other, a fixed object situated above the ground,
- deux séries de marches fixées sur le limon, respectivement de part et d'autre de ce dernier, et- two series of steps fixed on the stringer, respectively on either side of the latter, and
- une rampe, solidaire du limon, qui s'étend à la verticale de ce dernier, à une distance des marches inférieure à la longueur moyenne d'une jambe, de manière à ce qu'un utilisateur puisse se déplacer sur les marches en enjambant la rampe.- a ramp, integral with the stringer, which extends vertically from the latter, at a distance from the steps less than the average length of a leg, so that a user can move on the steps by stepping over the ramp.
Grâce à cette disposition, l'utilisateur peut se tenir à la structure en serrant la rampe entre ses jambes, et ce, sans avoir à utiliser ses mains, lesquelles demeurent libres par exemple pour effectuer des travaux.Thanks to this arrangement, the user can hold onto the structure by squeezing the ramp between his legs, without having to use his hands, which remain free for example to carry out work.
Parallèlement, ce double appui sur la rampe tend à le ramener dans un plan vertical, dans une position où il bénéficie d'une bonne stabilité.At the same time, this double support on the ramp tends to bring it back into a vertical plane, in a position where it benefits from good stability.
Avantageusement, les marches pourront comprendre des moyens de blocage latéral des pieds de manière à assurer une meilleure solidarisation structure/utilisateur, lorsque celui-ci serre la rampe entre ses jambes.Advantageously, the steps may include means for lateral blocking of the feet so as to ensure a better structure / user connection, when the latter clamps the ramp between his legs.
Un mode d'exécution de l'invention sera décrit ci-après, à titre d'exemple non limitatif, avec référence aux dessins annexés dans lesquels : Les figures 1 et 2 sont des vues en perspective 3/4 avant (figure 1) et 3/4 arrière (figure 2) d'une échelle/escabeau selon l'invention ;An embodiment of the invention will be described below, by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figures 1 and 2 are perspective views 3/4 front (Figure 1) and 3/4 rear (Figure 2) of a ladder / stepladder according to the invention;
La figure 3 est une vue de face de l'échelle/escabeau représentée sur les figures 1 et 2 ;Figure 3 is a front view of the ladder / stepladder shown in Figures 1 and 2;
La figure 4 montre l'échelle/escabeau à l'état replié.Figure 4 shows the ladder / stepladder in the folded state.
Dans cet exemple, le limon 1 de l'échelle/escabeau est constitué par deux longerons 2, 3 consistant chacun en un profilé en aluminium de section rectangulaire. Ces deux longerons 2, 3 s'étendent parallèlement l'un par rapport à l'autre et sont solidarisés l'un à l'autre grâce à deux séries de biellettes d'entretoisement obliques 4, 5 - 4', 5', fixées sur les longerons 2, 3 par leurs extrémités.In this example, the stringer 1 of the ladder / stepladder is constituted by two longitudinal members 2, 3 each consisting of an aluminum profile of rectangular section. These two longitudinal members 2, 3 extend parallel to each other and are joined to one another by means of two series of oblique bracing rods 4, 5 - 4 ', 5', fixed on the side members 2, 3 by their ends.
L'un des deux longerons, 3, légèrement plus long que l'autre, 2, se termine dans le bas par un patin 6 destiné à venir en appui sur le sol. Ce longeron 3 porte une rampe 7 de section circulaire qui s'étend au-dessus du limon 1 dans un même plan vertical. La fixation de la rampe 7 sur le limon 1 est assurée par une série de colliers fixés sur le longeron 3. Dans sa partie supérieure, la rampe 7 forme un coude 9 entourant partiellement l'extrémité du longeron 3.One of the two beams, 3, slightly longer than the other, 2, ends at the bottom with a shoe 6 intended to come to bear on the ground. This spar 3 carries a ramp 7 of circular section which extends above the stringer 1 in the same vertical plane. The ramp 7 is fixed to the stringer 1 by a series of collars fixed to the spar 3. In its upper part, the ramp 7 forms an elbow 9 partially surrounding the end of the spar 3.
Le longeron 2 supporte, quant à lui, une succession de doubles marches Mi, M'i - M2, M'2 - M3, M'3 qui s'étendent chacune transversalement de part et d'autre du plan vertical du limon 1.The spar 2 supports, for its part, a succession of double steps Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 which each extend transversely on either side of the vertical plane of the stringer 1.
Dans cet exemple, ces doubles marches Mi, M'i - M2, M'2 - M3, M'3 comprennent chacune deux plaques P qui s'étendent horizontalement de part et d'autre du plan du limon 1 et qui sont portées par des traverses tabulaires T venant se fixer par boulonnage sur une paire de biellettes horizontales 4, 5. Cette paire de biellettes horizontales 4, 5 se trouve ici contreventée par une paire de biellettes obliques 4', 5' qui s'étend dans l'intervalle formé entre lesdites biellettes 4, 5 et la marche qui se trouve juste en dessous.In this example, these double steps Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 each include two plates P which extend horizontally on either side of the plane of the stringer 1 and which are carried by tabular crosspieces T coming to be fixed by bolting on a pair of horizontal rods 4, 5. This pair of horizontal links 4, 5 is here braced by a pair of oblique links 4 ', 5' which extends in the gap formed between said links 4, 5 and the step which is located just below.
Avantageusement, les plaques P sont munies d'éléments en relief antidérapants et présentent chacune, au niveau de leurs bordures latérales, un repli R vers le haut servant à empêcher que les pieds de l'utilisateur ne puissent déraper latéralement.Advantageously, the plates P are provided with non-slip raised elements and each have, at their lateral edges, an upward fold R serving to prevent the feet of the user from being able to slip laterally.
Le couple de biellettes horizontales 4, 5 situé à l'extrémité supérieure du limon 1 supporte une tablette TB également antidérapante sur laquelle un objet, par exemple un pot de peinture, peut être posé. Ce couple de biellettes 4", 5", de section plus importante que celles des biellettes 4, 5, porte au-dessous de la tablette une traverse TR sur les extrémités de laquelle viennent s'articuler deux pieds Pi, P2 terminés à leurs extrémités inférieures par des patins d'appui au sol 11, 12.The pair of horizontal rods 4, 5 located at the upper end of the stringer 1 supports a shelf TB also non-slip on which an object, for example a paint can, can be placed. This pair of rods 4 ", 5", of larger cross section than those of the rods 4, 5, carries below the shelf a cross-member TR on the ends of which two feet Pi, P 2 terminated at their lower ends by pads on the ground 11, 12.
A l'état déployé, ces pieds Pi, P2 forment avec le longeron 3 un tripode qui délimite un volume prismatique à l'intérieur duquel les marches Mi, M'i - M2, M'2 - M3, M'3 se trouvent disposées, en contrebas du longeron 3. Dans cette position, les deux pieds Pl5 P2 se trouvent solidarisés l'un à l'autre grâce à une traverse déconnectable TD.In the deployed state, these feet Pi, P 2 form with the spar 3 a tripod which delimits a prismatic volume inside which the steps Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 are located below the spar 3. In this position, the two feet P 15 P 2 are secured to each other by means of a disconnectable cross-member TD.
Grâce à ces dispositions, l'échelle/escabeau offre à l'utilisateur une stabilité et une sécurité inégalées.Thanks to these provisions, the ladder / stepladder offers the user unequaled stability and security.
Du fait de sa structure tripode, l'échelle/escabeau peut être placée sur des sols éventuellement accidentés, étant entendu que l'utilisateur s'efforcera de la disposer de manière à ce que son plan de symétrie soit vertical. Dans tous les cas, l'utilisateur monté sur l'échelle/escabeau pourra "faire corps" avec cette dernière en serrant la rampe entre ses jambes. De ce fait, le plan vertical de symétrie de l'utilisateur dans lequel est situé son centre de gravité se trouve ramené dans le plan vertical de symétrie de l'échelle/escabeau (plan bissecteur du dièdre formé par le limon 1 et les deux pieds Pi, P2).Due to its tripod structure, the ladder / stepladder can be placed on possibly uneven floors, it being understood that the user will endeavor to arrange it so that its plane of symmetry is vertical. In all cases, the user mounted on the ladder / stepladder can "be one with it" by squeezing the ramp between his legs. As a result, the vertical plane of symmetry of the user in which his center of gravity is located is reduced to the vertical plane of symmetry of the ladder / stepladder (bisector plane of the dihedron formed by the stringer 1 and the two feet Pi, P 2 ).
De ce fait, la verticale du centre de gravité de l'ensemble utilisateur échelle/escabeau passe donc forcément à l'intérieur du polygone de sustentation de l'échelle/escabeau. La stabilité de l'ensemble se trouve donc garantie.As a result, the vertical of the center of gravity of the ladder / stepladder user assembly therefore necessarily passes inside the support polygon of the ladder / stepladder. The stability of the assembly is therefore guaranteed.
Cette stabilité demeure excellente même dans le cas où l'utilisateur se sert de ses deux mains pour effectuer des travaux et a donc l'obligation de serrer la rampe entre ses deux jambes.This stability remains excellent even in the case where the user uses both hands to carry out work and therefore has the obligation to clamp the ramp between his two legs.
Un autre avantage important de l'échelle/escabeau précédemment décrite consiste en ce qu'elle peut se replier pour n'occuper, à l'état replié, qu'un volume très réduit. Dans cette position, l'utilisateur peut se servir de la rampe 7 pour porter l'échelle/escabeau.Another important advantage of the previously described ladder / stepladder is that it can be folded up to occupy, in the folded state, only a very small volume. In this position, the user can use the ramp 7 to carry the ladder / stepladder.
En effet, les deux pieds peuvent venir se rabattre contre le limon 1, de sorte que le volume de l'ensemble, à l'état replié, se réduit sensiblement aux dimensions du limon 1 et des marches Mi, M'i - M2, M'2 - M3, M'3 (figure 4).Indeed, the two feet can come back against the stringer 1, so that the volume of the assembly, in the folded state, is reduced substantially to the dimensions of the stringer 1 and the steps Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 (Figure 4).
Dans l'exemple précédemment décrit, les marches Mi, M'i - M2, M'2 - M3, M'3 pourront occuper des positions décalées en hauteur d'environ 21 cm, le limon étant incliné d'environ 30°. La largeur du limon 1 (distance séparant ses arêtes supérieure et inférieure) est telle que la verticale à l'aplomb du premier tiers d'une marche recoupe l'arête supérieure du "limon" à une hauteur d'environ 40 cm.In the example described above, the steps Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 may occupy positions offset in height by approximately 21 cm, the stringer being inclined by approximately 30 ° . The width of the stringer 1 (distance separating its upper and lower edges) is such that the vertical plumb with the first third of a step intersects the upper edge of the "stringer" at a height of about 40 cm.
La rampe 7 est située à environ 40 cm au-dessus des marches de manière à pouvoir venir en appui entre les mollets et les genoux de l'utilisateur.The ramp 7 is located about 40 cm above the steps so as to be able to come into contact between the calves and the user's knees.
Bien entendu, l'invention ne se limite pas au mode d'exécution précédemment décrit.Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described above.
Ainsi, par exemple, les pieds Pi, P2 de l'échelle/escabeau pourront être réglables en longueur de manière à permettre un réglage de verticalité, notamment dans le cas d'un sol accidenté. A cet effet, chaque pied Pi, P2 pourra comprendre deux éléments s'emboîtant télescopiquement l'un dans l'autre et des moyens de fixation permettant de solidariser les deux éléments dans la position axiale correspondant à la longueur du pied que l'on désire obtenir.Thus, for example, the feet Pi, P 2 of the ladder / stepladder may be adjustable in length so as to allow adjustment of verticality, in particular in the case of uneven ground. To this end, each foot Pi, P 2 may comprise two elements which telescopically interlock with one another and fixing means making it possible to secure the two elements in the axial position corresponding to the length of the foot which is desire to obtain.
Par ailleurs, la susdite rampe pourra consister en le longeron supérieur 3 du limon 1. Celui-ci pourra être prolongé au-delà de son extrémité supérieure par un tronçon de rampe qui s'engage télescopiquement dans le longeron 3. Un blocage axial multiposition de ce tronçon dans le longeron pourra alors être assuré par tous moyens de fixation connus.Furthermore, the aforementioned ramp may consist of the upper spar 3 of the stringer 1. This may be extended beyond its upper end by a section of ramp which engages telescopically in the spar 3. A multiposition axial locking of this section in the spar can then be provided by any known fixing means.
L'extrémité supérieure de ce tronçon pourra être équipée d'un crochet ou similaire, pouvant servir à suspendre un objet, par exemple un pot ou un panier. De préférence, les pieds seront orientés de manière à ce que l'extrémité supérieure du limon 1 se trouve sensiblement à la verticale du barycentre du triangle formé par les patins 6, 11, 12.The upper end of this section may be fitted with a hook or the like, which can be used to hang an object, for example a pot or a basket. Preferably, the feet will be oriented so that the upper end of the stringer 1 is located substantially vertically of the barycenter of the triangle formed by the pads 6, 11, 12.
Dans ce cas, la stabilité de l'ensemble structure/utilisateur deviendra de plus en plus grande, au fur et à mesure que l'on monte sur les marches, pour devenir maximale au niveau de la dernière marche, le centre de gravité de l'utilisateur se trouvant alors à la verticale du barycentre du polygone de sustentation. In this case, the stability of the whole structure / user will become more and more, as one goes up on the steps, to become maximum at the level of the last step, the center of gravity of the user then being vertical to the barycenter of the lift polygon.

Claims

Revendications claims
1. Structure support portable utilisable en tant qu'échelle ou escabeau pour permettre à une personne de se déplacer, notamment de monter ou de descendre, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend au moins :1. Portable support structure usable as a ladder or stepladder to allow a person to move, in particular to climb or descend, characterized in that it comprises at least:
- un limon (1) dont les deux extrémités sont destinées à venir en appui sur deux éléments fixes, l'un de ces éléments pouvant consister en le sol et l'autre, un objet fixe situé au-dessus du sol,- a stringer (1), the two ends of which are intended to come to bear on two fixed elements, one of these elements being able to consist of the ground and the other, a fixed object situated above the ground,
- deux séries de marches (M M - M2, M'2 - M3, M'3) fixées sur le limon, respectivement de part et d'autre de ce dernier, et- two series of steps (MM - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 ) fixed on the stringer, respectively on either side of the latter, and
- une rampe (7), solidaire du limon (1), qui s'étend à la verticale de ce dernier, à une distance des marches (Mj, M'i - M2, M'2 - M3, M'3) inférieure à la longueur moyenne d'une jambe, de manière à ce qu'un utilisateur puisse se déplacer sur les marches (Mi, M - M2, M'2 - M3, M'3) en enjambant la rampe (7).- a ramp (7), integral with the stringer (1), which extends vertically from the latter, at a distance from the steps (Mj, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 ) less than the average length of a leg, so that a user can move on the steps (Mi, M - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 ) by stepping over the ramp (7 ).
2. Structure selon la revendication 1, caractérisée en ce que les marches (Ml5 M'i - M2, M'2 - M3, M'3) comprennent des moyens de blocage latéral (R) des pieds de manière à assurer une meilleure solidarisation structure/utilisateur, lorsque celui-ci serre la rampe entre ses jambes.2. Structure according to claim 1, characterized in that the steps (M l5 M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 ) comprise lateral locking means (R) of the feet so as to ensure a better structure / user connection, when the latter squeezes the ramp between his legs.
3. Structure selon l'une des revendications 1 et 2, caractérisée en ce que l'une des extrémités du limon (1) est équipée d'un patin (6) tandis que deux pieds (Pi, P2) sont articulés sur l'autre extrémité de manière à obtenir à l'état déployé une structure tripode. 3. Structure according to one of claims 1 and 2, characterized in that one of the ends of the stringer (1) is equipped with a shoe (6) while two feet (Pi, P 2 ) are articulated on the 'other end so as to obtain in the deployed state a tripod structure.
4. Structure selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce que le limon (1) de l'échelle/escabeau comprend deux longerons (2, 3) parallèles, solidarisés l'un à l'autre par des paires de biellettes d'entretoisement (4, 5 - 4', 5'), l'un des longerons (3), légèrement plus long que l'autre, se terminant dans le bas par un patin d'appui au sol (6).4. Structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the stringer (1) of the ladder / stepladder comprises two parallel beams (2, 3), secured to one another by pairs of connecting rods d 'bracing (4, 5 - 4', 5 '), one of the side members (3), slightly longer than the other, ending at the bottom with a support pad on the ground (6).
5. Structure selon la revendication 4, caractérisée en ce que la susdite rampe est fixée sur le longeron (3) de plus grande longueur tandis que les susdites marches sont supportées par le longeron (2) de plus petite longueur.5. Structure according to claim 4, characterized in that the aforesaid ramp is fixed on the spar (3) of greater length while the above steps are supported by the spar (2) of shorter length.
6. Structure selon la revendication 4, caractérisée en ce que la susdite rampe consiste en le longeron (3) de plus grande longueur.6. Structure according to claim 4, characterized in that the aforesaid ramp consists of the longeron (3).
7. Structure selon la revendication 6, caractérisée en ce que la susdite rampe est prolongée par un tronçon de rampe qui s'engage télescopiquement dans le longeron (3) de plus grande longueur, l'extrémité supérieure dudit tronçon pouvant être équipée d'un crochet.7. Structure according to claim 6, characterized in that the above ramp is extended by a ramp section which engages telescopically in the longeron (3), the upper end of said section can be equipped with a hook.
8. Structure selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend deux séries de paires de biellettes d'entretoisement, les paires (4, 5) de l'une des séries étant horizontales, tandis que les paires (4', 5') de l'autre série sont obliques et assurent un contreventement des biellettes horizontales (4, 5), et en ce que les paires de biellettes horizontales (4, 5) supportent chacune une paire de marches (Mi, M'i - M2, M'2 - M3, M'3) qui s'étendent transversalement de part et d'autre du limon (1). 8. Structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises two series of pairs of tie rods, the pairs (4, 5) of one of the series being horizontal, while the pairs (4 ', 5') of the other series are oblique and provide bracing of the horizontal links (4, 5), and in that the pairs of horizontal links (4, 5) each support a pair of steps (Mi, M ' i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , M' 3 ) which extend transversely on either side of the stringer (1).
9. Structure selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisée en ce que les susdites marches (Mi, M'i - M2, M'2 - M3, Ivr3) consistent en des plaques (P) munies d'éléments antidérapants et présentent des bordures latérales (R) repliées vers le haut.9. Structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the above steps (Mi, M'i - M 2 , M ' 2 - M 3 , Ivr 3 ) consist of plates (P) provided with non-slip elements and have side edges (R) folded upwards.
10. Structure selon l'une des revendications 3 à 9, caractérisée en ce qu'elle comprend un couple de biellettes horizontales (4", 5") situé à l'extrémité supérieure du limon (1) et supportant une tablette sur laquelle un objet peut être posé, et en ce que les susdites biellettes (4", 5") portent une traverse (TR) sur les extrémités de laquelle viennent s'articuler les deux pieds (Pi, P2).10. Structure according to one of claims 3 to 9, characterized in that it comprises a pair of horizontal rods (4 ", 5") located at the upper end of the stringer (1) and supporting a shelf on which a object can be placed, and in that the aforesaid links (4 ", 5") carry a cross (TR) on the ends of which come to articulate the two feet (Pi, P 2 ).
11. Structure selon l'une des revendications 3 à 10, caractérisée en ce que les pieds (Pi, P2) sont orientés de manière à ce que l'extrémité supérieure du limon (1) se trouve sensiblement à la verticale du centre du triangle formé par des patins (6, 11, 12) montés aux extrémités des pieds (Pi, P2) et du limon (1).11. Structure according to one of claims 3 to 10, characterized in that the feet (Pi, P 2 ) are oriented so that the upper end of the stringer (1) is substantially vertical to the center of the triangle formed by pads (6, 11, 12) mounted at the ends of the feet (Pi, P 2 ) and the stringer (1).
12. Structure selon la revendication 3, caractérisée en ce que les deux pieds (Pi, P2) sont solidarisés par une traverse déconnectable (TD). 12. Structure according to claim 3, characterized in that the two feet (Pi, P 2 ) are secured by a disconnectable crosspiece (TD).
EP99936691A 1998-09-04 1999-07-30 Portable and foldable support structure useful as ladder or stepladder Expired - Lifetime EP1109987B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9811176 1998-09-04
FR9811176A FR2783012B1 (en) 1998-09-04 1998-09-04 PORTABLE SUPPORT STRUCTURE USED AS A LADDER OR STEPLADDER
PCT/FR1999/001935 WO2000014373A1 (en) 1998-09-04 1999-07-30 Portable support structure useful as ladder or stepladder

Publications (2)

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EP1109987A1 true EP1109987A1 (en) 2001-06-27
EP1109987B1 EP1109987B1 (en) 2004-08-18

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US (1) US6386320B1 (en)
EP (1) EP1109987B1 (en)
AU (1) AU5169899A (en)
DE (1) DE69919551D1 (en)
FR (1) FR2783012B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2000014373A1 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2000014373A1 (en) 2000-03-16
EP1109987B1 (en) 2004-08-18
FR2783012B1 (en) 2000-10-27
AU5169899A (en) 2000-03-27
DE69919551D1 (en) 2004-09-23
US6386320B1 (en) 2002-05-14
FR2783012A1 (en) 2000-03-10

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