Braces for ladders, ladders incorporating same and related methods
AssigneeLittle Giant Ladder Systems, LLC
InventorsBenjamin L. Cook, N. Ryan Moss, Brian B. Russell
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Ladder components, such as braces, as well as ladders and methods of manufacturing ladders are provided. In one embodiment, a ladder brace is provided which extends between a rail and a cross member (e.g., a rung or a cross-brace). The ladder brace may include a first connecting portion associated with the rail, a second connecting portion associated with the cross member, and a strut portion extending between the first and second connecting portions. At least one of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion is configured to completely encircle its associated component (e.g., either the rail or the cross member, respectively).
Claims20
A method of assembling a ladder, the method comprising:
- providing a first rail;
- providing a cross-member;
- providing a first brace having a first connecting portion, a second connecting portion, and a strut portion between the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, the first connecting portion having a tubular configuration, the tubular configuration including an opening having a bottom end;
- sliding the first rail through an opening of the tubular configuration such that the first connecting portion surrounds a portion of the first rail and the first rail extends downward from the tubular configuration and below the bottom end of the opening;
- and
- coupling the second connecting portion with the first cross-member.
A method of assembling a ladder, the method comprising:
- providing a first rail, a second rail spaced apart from the first rail, and at least one member extending between and coupled to the first rail and the second rail;
- providing a first foot coupled to the first rail;
- providing a brace having a unitary member including a first connecting portion coupled with the first rail, a second connecting portion coupled with the at least one member, and a strut portion extending between, and connected to, the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion, wherein the first connecting portion includes a tubular configuration;
- sliding a portion of the first rail through the tubular configuration to a location between the first foot and the at least one member, wherein the first connecting portion is not fastened to the first rail by a mechanical fastener or an adhesive;
- and
- coupling the second connecting portion with the at least one member.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.